WIMBLEDON NOVEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY Wimbledon

NOVEMBER 2013

THE EDUCATION ISSUE

DOG’S LIFE VICTORIA STILWELL ON GROWING UP IN WIMBLEDON

COOK UP A STORM

CULINARY CLASSES AT CLAPHAM’S CACTUS KITCHENS

SCHOOL OF COOL HOW TO DO GROWN-UP PUNK

S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY SOUTH COVERS November_13 2.indd 3

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Wimble Raynes P Mor Lett

ww

Passionate About Property

Wimbledon

ÂŁ760,000

An elegant Victorian terraced house, with well-presented kitchen/breakfast room extending onto a large decked area with lawn beyond. The house has a beautiful lounge with feature fireplace and a cloakroom on the ground floor. With three double bedrooms, en-suite shower and family bathroom, this is a superb family house, close to good schools, in a central location. EPC D. Tel 020 8944 9494

Wimbledon T 020 8944 9494 Raynes Park T 020 8944 9595 Morden T 020 8543 1166 Lettings T 020 8944 8626

www.ellisons.uk.com

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Wimbledon’s Sales and Lettings Agent

Wimbledon

ÂŁ3500 pcm

Stunning double fronted family home, offering three reception rooms, five large bedrooms and two luxury bathrooms. Presented in excellent condition throughout, including a newly converted loft. Located moments from the centre of Wimbledon and benefitting from off street parking, this property offers extremely convenient accommodation. South facing garden with a large lawn, patio area and a hot tub. EPC E. Tel 020 8944 9494 Ellisons_logo_contact_footer_Layout 1 11/01/2013 08:31 Page 1 Ellisons_logo_contact_footer_Layout 1 11/01/2013 08:31 Page 1

11/01/2013 08:31 Page 1

perty

Wimbledon T 020 8944 9494 Raynes Park T 020 8944 9595 Wimbledon T 020 8944 9494 Morden T 020 8543 1166 Raynes Park T 020 8944 9595 Wimbledon T 020 8944 9494 Wimbledon T 020 8944 9494 Raynes Park T 020 8944 9595 Morden T 020 8543 1166 Lettings T 020 8944 8626 Raynes Park T 020 8944 9595 Lettings T 020 8944 8626 Morden T 020 8543 1166 Morden T 020 8543 Passionate 1166 About Property Lettings T 020 8944 8626 www.ellisons.uk.com Lettings T 020 8944 8626 Passionate About Property www.ellisons.uk.com

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www.ellisons.uk.com

04/10/2013 15:03

Destined to create the world’s most beautiful bathrooms

Showrooms located at Mayfair I Clerkenwell I Knightsbridge I Battersea I Wandsworth I Selfridges I Kent I Surrey I Sussex For enquiries please call 0333 011 3333 ‘At Home Design Service’ available see website for details

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CONTENTS 7 11

EDITOR’S LETTER ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top picks this month

12 WHAT’S ON

Everything that’s happening in your area

STYLE 24 REBEL REBEL

How to do grown-up punk

31 NEW ROMANTICS

Embrace fashion’s dark side as the nights draw in

EDITO R ’ S

LETTER November 2013

We don’t need no education,’ sang Pink Floyd in the 70s, which is a bit of a shame really, since we have such a strong scholastic current flowing through southwest London. Bursting to the brim with some of the best schools in the capital, it’s no wonder that competition for places around here is fierce. So, to make your didactic decisions simpler, we’ve resolved to make this issue an Education Special, complete with its very own (and our very first!) Education Supplement.

First up, demonstrating just how important art education can be is local curator Mel Barry, who tells us all about the initiatives south of the river which are designed to inspire our children. Meanwhile, Batterseabased children’s entrainment duo Sharky and George are inspiring our children in a different way with their fun-filled parties. They tell us all about how a silly school prank turned into a career on p.43.

Continuing with the educational theme, Wimbledonresident-turned-dog-trainer-extraordinaire Victoria Stilwell tells Andy Greeves about her mission to train the nation and get our four-legged friends to behave on p.48. And finally, Edwina Langley trials the new cookery classes at the Clapham-based Cactus Kitchens on p.73 – turns out she’s pretty nifty with a knife!

So I say this month ignore Pink Floyd. When you live in southwest London, there’s absolutely no reason to leave them kids alone….

HEALTH & BEAUTY 35 LASH UP

8 of the best mascaras for truly eye-popping results

37 A SCENT OF SELF

Why it’s not worth worrying about a signature perfume

INTERIORS 57 INTERIOR NOTES

From stylish storage to lady-like lounging, Absolutely picks its top interior news

59 RENOVATION DIARIES Georgie Coleridge Cole on doing up her Wandsworth house

66 LET THERE BE LIGHT Inside Nina Campbell’s new book

KIDS & EDUCATION 43 CHILD’S PLAY

Edwina Langley meets kid’s entertainment duo Sharky and George

48 TEACHER’S PET

Dog trainer Victoria Stilwell on growing up in Wimbledon

51 EMERGE AND FLOURISH Local curator Mel Barry on southwest London’s art initiatives

FOOD & TRAVEL 73 COOK UP A STORM

Edwina Langley takes a cookery class at Cactus Kitchens

79 RESTAURANT REVIEW Catherine Hales trials Wimbledon pop-up Vallebona

82 TOMB RAIDER

Take a journey through Khmer Culture

PROPERTY 98 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Ben Rymer and Duncan Irens of Rymer Irens on their careers in property

Georgie Lane-Godfrey

Editor FIND US ON FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ & TWITTER ‘ABSOLUTELY_MAGS’

110 SPOTLIGHT ON...

The very best of what Earlsfield has to offer

116 PROPERTY NEWS

News and views on the market in your local area

5

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GET FIT, HAVE FUN, BRING THE FAMILY!

ABSOLUTELY Wimbledon

EDITOR Georgie Lane-Godfrey EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catherine Hales

Weave Wimbledon Racquets &

EDITORIAL INTERN Mia Humber

Fitness Club into your week...

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Georgie Coleridge Cole,

and especially into your weekend!

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 o 7 Badminton courts o 6 Squash courts o Fully air conditioned gym o Beginners squash & badminton o Squash Starter Course

o Club bar and lounge o Non-member bookings for private functions welcome o Badminton & squash coaching o Kettlebell Classes

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Christine Mann FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid FINANCE MANAGER Marianne McFadden DIRECTOR Greg Hughes MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout PA TO THE MANAGING DIRECTOR Clarissa Forrest For editorial enquiries please email: editorial@zest-media.com

INTRODUCING SQUASHERCISE!

For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com.

Female fun group activity burning up to 500 calories an hour!

You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging).

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

‘a friendly place to get fit with like minded people’ Cranbrook Road, Wimbledon SW19 4HD T: 020 8947 5806

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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www.wimbledonclub.co.uk | info@wimbledonclub.co.uk

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A B S O L U T E LY

Editoric’sk P

FEVER TREE TONICS

All you need to throw an excellent Christmas party are Fever Tree tonics and good spirits (pun intended).

These subtle, all-natural tonics aim to enhance rather than mask your drink’s flavour, plus the lack of calories makes up for all those mince pies...

fever-tree.co.uk

EILEEN FISHER COLLECTION

eileenfisher.com

UNIQLO

The answer to the age old paradox of how to keep warm but look cool, we love these ulta light down jackets from Uniqlo – an urban take on country checks.

51 The Broadway, SW19;

uniqlo.com

DVF

DJ Harley Viera-Newton and Dianne Von Furstenberg have collaborated to bring you an accessory that will be music to your ears.

The muse for the collection? DJ Harley’s own beloved black cat, Marmite.

85 High Street, SW19, 020 8944 5995;

dvf.com

PAUL SMITH

LOVES

Eileen Fisher’s AW13 collection is full of loose knits to give your outfit a little bit of swing, a little bit of slouch and a lot of style.

23a High Street, SW19, 020 8605 2690;

Stop to smell the roses – every day.

This precious pink perfume is just as elegant placed on your vanity table as sprayed on your wrist. Available at Debenhams, Centre Court Shopping Centre, 4 Queens Road, SW19;

paulsmith.com

DEROSIER CHOCOLATES

As difficult as it is to share something so delicious, we had to talk about these DeRossier chocolate boxes. With flavours like salted caramel, hazelnut-praline and orangechocolate, you’re bound to find your fix.

81 Revelstoke Road, SW18, 020 8947 4456;

derosierchocolates.com

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WHAT’S ON In the Cinema

GRAVITY

H

Directed by ALFONSO CUARÓN Starring SANDRA BULLOCK & GEORGE CLOONEY

ollywood has offered up its fair share of space-set thrillers over the years – Apollo 13, Armageddon and Pandorum, to name just a few – but never have any been quite as terrifying as this. Just watching the trailer for Alfonso Cuarón’s (Children of Men, The Little Princess) latest film leaves you with your heart in your throat and sweat on your palms. Sandra Bullock (The Blind Side, Crash) plays medical engineer Ryan Stone, who on her first mission to outer space is knocked adrift by a storm of debris. Caught in the disaster with her is veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski, played by George Clooney (The

Descendants, The Ides of March), who is commanding his final mission before retirement.

With limited air and no way of contacting Earth, they must rely on each other to survive, but in the vast vacuum of space it is hard to hope that help will ever come. Clooney and Bullock, with their respective Oscar nomination and win, have long since proven themselves to be far more than just famous faces, but their compelling performances in this masterfully written thriller are some of their best to date. This is a gripping exploration of the darkest depths of human fear and helplessness.

8 November

HA HA HOLMES New Wimbledon Theatre 4 Nov Holmes and Watson as you’ve never seen them before, in a desperate search to uncover the mystery of the Hound of the Baskervilles. An affectionate parody of the well-loved classic, the play stars stand-up comic Joe Pasquale in the lead role with Ben Langley as Dr Watson and Andrew Fettes as everyone else. So should you go and see it? The answer is elementary. 93 The Broadway, SW19, 0844 817 7646; atgtickets.com

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This month we’re talking about...

THE HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN

WINTER OPEN STUDIOS ART SHOW

5 LES VEPRES SICILIENNES

Wimbledon Art Studios 21~24 November Cut out the middleman as Wimbledon Art Studios opens its doors for the Winter Art Show. Visitors will get the opportunity to see over 140 artists in their individual creative spaces and buy pieces directly from them, including sculpture, ceramics, textiles, photography, painting and furniture design.

10 Riverside Road, SW17, 020 8947 1183;

Wimbledon Odeon 4 Nov Drawing inspiration from the opera’s premiere performance in Paris, 1855, Norwegian born director Stefan Herheim will make his Covent Garden debut with Verdi’s masterpiece, starring world class performers including Bryan Hymel, Marina Polavskaya, Erwin Schrott and Michael Volle. Victoria Crescent, 57 The Broadway, SW19, 0871 224 4007;

wimbledonartstudios.co.uk

odeon.co.uk

orget the Oscars, the inaugural Alastair Sawday’s B&B Awards is upon us! And with it comes the news that The Rising Sun in Wimbledon is to be honoured with the Favourite Newcomer Award. Sawday’s Special Places to Stay British Bed & Breakfast is on the shelves now and brings together over 700 of Britain’s best B&Bs. To celebrate the book’s publication the guide has decided to award twelve standout establishments over four categories – one of which is Wimbledon’s very own The Rising Sun. A quote from The Rising Sun’s entry states, ‘Step from the grass of Wimbledon Common and into this relaxed artists’ home, a splendid 18th-century former inn fronted by a lovely walled garden. Expect a big welcome from Carol and two rescue dogs before being led upstairs, passing John in his studio.’ risingsunbandb.co.uk

F

Don’t Miss

INTERNATIONAL WIMBLEDON MUSIC FESTIVAL Throughout Wimbledon 9~24 Nov Wimbledon’s prestigious international festival is back and better than ever. Music lovers will be treated to over two weeks of fabulous concerts and events including Angela Hewitt playing Bach and The Brodsky Quartet performing Wolf, Wagner, Verdi and joining Michael Collins in Brahms. Sir John Tomlinson and David Owen Norris will be paying tribute to Michelangelo and Britten Bach, and visitors can enjoy choral masterpieces with the Academy Choir & Baroque Players, Julia Doyle, Marcus Farnsworth and others. Throughout Wimbledon; wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk

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Books 5 Nov

OUT OF TOWN

THE RAC LONDON TO BRIGHTON VETERAN CAR RUN Hyde Park Corner, London to Marine Parade, Brighton 03 NOVEMBER

n 1896 a small group of automobiles drove the 54 miles from London to Brighton in celebration of the Locomotives on the Highway Act, which raised speed limits of ‘light locomotives’ from 4mph to 14mph. Now, over 100 years later, the annual run has become one of the largest gatherings of veteran cars in the world. Sometimes counting celebrities and royals among its participants, the run is free for spectators and has been known to draw more than a million people to the roadsides for a chance to glimpse an astonishing array of pre-1905 vehicles. The run begins at sunrise (just before 7am) on Hyde Park Corner; lbvcr.com

I

BONFIRE NIGHT AND FIREWORKS Wimbledon Park Remember, remember the fifth of November – gunpowder, treason and plot! Wimbledon Park will be celebrating the annual Guy Fawkes celebrations in style with a children’s fireworks display at 6:45pm and the main event kicking off at 8:30pm. Wimbledon Park, Home Park Road, SW19, 020 8545 3677; merton.gov.uk

3 Nov

Wimbledon Common

by Sebastian Faulks

Get the kids out from behind the Sunday television and on a walk to discover the wonders of nature. Any future botanists or amateur twitchers will enjoy The Wildlife Watch Club’s ramble this month, ‘The Magic of Trees’. Running from 10am to 12pm, it provides fresh air for children as well as weekend downtime for parents too, of course.

Windmill Road, SW19; 020 8788 7655; wpcc.org.uk

The Crooked Billet

polkatheatre.com

A

dam and Christine meet late one night on the Ha-penny Bridge in Dublin, but the circumstances aren’t as romantic as you’d expect. Adam is poised ready to jump, and Christine, desperate to stop him, makes a promise: she’ll make him fall in love with his life again before the day of his 35th birthday – just two weeks away.

It’s a dangerous deal, but as the pair embark on a fortnight of wild escapades, Christine begins to think she’s succeeding... £16.99; Harper Collins

JEEVES & THE WEDDING BELLS

11 Nov

Polka Theatre 7~9 Nov Mind the Gap present Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story of young Jim Hawkins and Long John Silver - with a twist! Their piratical adventures are transported to a supermarket ‘turning aisles into adventure and carrots into parrots’. A perfect swashbuckling adventure to thrill the children (and secretly, the adults). 240 The Broadway, SW19, 020 8543 4888;

by Cecelia Ahern

THE MAGIC OF TREES

PUB QUIZ

TREASURE ISLAND

HOW TO FALL IN LOVE

Legendary Wimbledon pub The Crooked Billet host their weekly pub quiz to test your general knowledge and see who can come up with the cleverest team names.

Will you be the Agatha Quizties? Or Universally Challenged? Who knows, your extensive knowledge about plant life in the Outer Hebrides may come in useful at last!

14-15 Crooked Billet, SW19, 020 8946 4942; thethecrooked billetwimbledon.com

R

eviving P.G. Wodehouse’s much-love characters, Sebastian Faulks has created a wonderfully witty novel that sees roles reversed and identities confused: Bertie Wooster finds himself making a mess downstairs as he tries to work out how exactly one makes a cup of tea, while Jeeves is upstairs entertaining. Reminiscent of a Shakespearean comedy, this novel sees two of the nation’s favorite characters brought back to life by one of Britain’s master storytellers. £16.99; Hutchinson

SAINTS OF THE SHADOW BIBLE

by Ian Rankin

R

ebus is out of retirement and back on the force, but things aren’t going well. Demoted and disillusioned, he finds himself suspected of foul play when a 30-year-old case is reopened. Back then his colleagues called themselves ‘The Saints’ and swore allegiance to the ominous ‘Shadow Bible’, but the secrets of the past won’t remain buried for much longer. Who’s side is Rebus really on, and are saints and sinners sometimes the same thing? £18.99; Orion All books available from Waterstones, 12 Wimbledon Bridge, SW19, 0843 290 8687; waterstones.com

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AUB ERG I N E

A RT

G A L L E RY & P I C T U R E F R A M I N G

NEW LIMITED EDITION PRINTS B Y T H E N AT I O N ’ S F AV O U R I T E I L L U S T R AT O R

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AVA I L A B L E I N T H E G A L L E R Y N O W 1 Queens Road, Wimbledon, London. SW19 8NG w w w. a u b e r g i n e a r t . c o . u k

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tel: 0208 947 7838

09/10/2013 16:08

SPOTLIGHT ON… ABSOLUTELY TALKS TO ANTHONY WILKINSON, FOUNDER OF THE INTERNATIONAL WIMBLEDON MUSIC FESTIVAL – THE HIGHLIGHT OF SOUTHWEST LONDON’S CULTURAL CALENDAR

Absolutely: Tell us a bit about yourself. Do you have a background in music?

Anthony Wilkinson: I worked at the BBC as a producer in the 1960s, where I made several dramas and worked with a number of the really celebrated performers of the time, such as Arthur Rubenstein and Janet Baker. When I left the BBC, I made a large number of commercials before getting a break in Hollywood where I spent seven years making movies and series, one of which was In the Heat of the Night.

Abs: What was your motivation for starting IWMF? AW: I live in Wimbledon and have done for 50 years, and at the time I was trying to help a local church, St John’s on Spencer Hill, build up their own little festival so they would have something to promote.

I’d just come back from a marvellous summer course at Dartington [the music school] where I'd met a lot of the tutors who became my friends, so I had a selection of fine musicians who I could invite to perform.

The church is one with absolutely superb acoustics and it’s a beautiful environment in which to play – you feel the music really speaks there – and soon we started getting some really starry names. So, without really wanting to start a festival, I started one.

Abs: How does the festival help the local community?

AW: It brings a lot of people together and I think everyone really looks forward to it. It’s a chance for people who really love music to hear some absolutely outstanding, world-class performers here in intimate, local surroundings.

Abs: How is IWMF different from other classical music festivals?

AW: I’ve got a lot of respect for a number of festivals – competition in London is so extraordinary – but I think the thing that marks us out is that our quality is exceptional.

We really deliver some fantastic names, which means that I am able to bring amazing performers year on year. For example, this year we have pianist Angela Hewitt as well as Sir John Tomlinson, the great Wagnerian bassist.

Abs: Apparently you’re partnered with other music festivals around the world?

AW: Before we were even two years old, we’d become part of an international partnership of festivals, which stretches from Australia to Alaska. The result is that we are now co-commissioning works. Last year we appointed an English composer, Benjamin Wallfisch, who composed something inspired by the paintings of Arman, a French-American artist who incorporated instruments into his work.

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ABSOLU TELY

ART & CULTURE

Abs: This is the festival’s fifth year.

What has been your personal highlight so far?

AW: As a director, I’ve always wanted to try and bring some of my career skills to the festival, and so I’ve set up and directed one or two projects. One of those projects was Noye’s Fludde. It involved the Brodsky Quartet, 32 recorders, two solo singers, 250 children from surrounding schools and design elements from Wimbledon College of Art. As part of their course, the students made animal puppets, some of which were huge, for example an 8ft bear! They also did the set design, which was made up of coloured umbrellas. It was a real community event.

Abs: What would you most like to achieve with regards to the festival?

AW: A great international concert hall in Wimbledon. We’ve already had meetings with the council and the site has been established close to Wimbledon station (as accessibility is important), but it won’t be completed until 2020.

Abs: What can we expect this year?

AW: One thing I’m particularly looking forward to is an evening of Gesualdo. He was an extraordinary Italian madrigalist who died 400 years ago, but was 250 years ahead of his time. He used chromatics in the same way as Wagner, and the extraordinary nature of his music was only really discovered about three hundred years after his death.

We are singing several of his own madrigals, set to a backdrop of Death of the Five Voices, a film by the enfant terrible of German cinema, Werner Herzog. These clips will act as the backdrop to a narrated story of his life, which was truly incredible. He murdered his wife and her lover after discovering them in flagrante delicate, but managed to avoid punishment as he was Prince of Venosa and his uncle was Pope. It’s a salacious story and a really dramatic one, so it promises to be a fantastic event.

The International Wimbledon Music Festival is taking place from 9th-24th November.

To see the diary of events and book tickets, visit wimbledonmusicfestival.co.uk

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lovelyLEOPOLD PROMOTION

From fashion to food, Absolutely picks its favourite hotspots on Leopold Road

Well Groomed

F

or a quality contemporary cuts, a new look or a more traditional trim Bugsys hits the right mix of a modern approach with old fashioned expertise and timeless good manners. Open til 7pm weekdays and 10 to 6 on Sundays Bugsy’s

Home Help

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invite Absolutley Readers 30% off all cuts with this ad so pop in for a free consultation and put yourself in expert hands.

amily run Halliday’s Homes & Hardware is your local DIY retailer, stocking everything you need from light bulbs to locks and keys and the main attraction of Little Greene, Paint and Paper Library and Sanderson paint, all colours and finishes of which are mixed on site.

BUGSYS BARBERS 28a Leopold Road, SW19 020 8286 1779

You can expect service with a smile and a personal interest in your project however large or small.

HALLIDAYS HOME & HARDWARE 6 Leopold Road, SW19 020 8879 6099

Pets Pop In

Cosy Corner

E

njoy the neighbourly atmosphere and watch the world go by with the daily papers and a delicious Italian coffee and pastry at Café Rosi.

The new autumn lunch menu offers a good choice of healthy dishes and is great value at £5.95 for two courses. Alternatively,

choose three courses for £12.50 after 3pm for a tempting midweek supper that is hard to beat on taste and value for money.

CAFE ROSI 8 Leopold Road, SW19 020 8944 7594

N

ow stocking a wider range of pet food and accessories including: Lily’s Kitchen, Applaws, Skinners, and James Wellbeloved. Just in! Surf Dog bath robes, ideal for after hydrotherapy, swimming or bath time. Cosy Dog collars, leads, harnesses and coats and a good

variety of toys, beds and training aids all in store.

PET STORE AT KYDD AND KYDD VETS. 1-3 Leopold Road, SW19 0208 946 9925 kyddandkyddvets.co.uk

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PROMOTION

With it’s lively mix of independent shops, restaurants and quality services, Absolutely loves Leopold Road. With free drop-in parking available all day, this delightful street is a convenient spot to discover the treasures of Wimbledon Park.

S

pend a few hours on yourself restoring body and soul with a visit to Thai Charms. Absolutely readers can present this ad to enjoy an extra 15 mins when you buy a 60 minute treatment. Choose from

a Thai, Swedish, Combination, Aromatherapy, Foot, Head & Shoulder or Cellulite Massage.

Open when you need them 7 days a week from 10am till 10pm for walk ins or with an appointment.

THAI CHARMS 23 Leopold Road, SW19 020 8947 6600 thaicharmsmassage.com

Award Winning Style

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sente Hair is an innovative salon with a reputation for excellence and great customer service. The team at Esente are proud of their prestigious industry awards as well as customer service commendations. You can depend on a luxury experience from the

moment you walk in until you leave looking and feeling fabulous so escape from your busy life with some quiet time in the hair spa.

ESENTE HAIR 18 Leopold Road, SW19 020 8946 4875 esentehair.co.uk

WORLD CLASS COUTURE

Natural Balance

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ind a wonderful world of couture and bespoke designs where your every fashion dream will become true. Katja Nuutinen Couture is one of the sought after young generation couturiers in London and her designs are worn by many influential people. She is known for her impeccably fi nished, glamorous evening wear and chic occasion wear.

Be spoilt with the choice of luxurious silks and luscious laces, soft cashmeres and dazzling embellishments from hundreds of options in the sample books. Whilst Katja

applies her magic touch to your outfit, you can enjoy feeling special and pampered in the calm atmosphere of her studio.

Pop in or book an appointment to discover the latest cocktail dress and evening gown designs for autumn’s party season.

Great offers are also available online at www.kncouture.com/ coutureshop.

KATJA NUUTINEN COUTURE 7 Leopold Road, SW19 020 8944 8848 kncouture.com

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ABSOLU TELY

ART & CULTURE

Theatre Review

JETS vs SHARKS CATHERINE HALES REVIEWS THE NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE’S CURRENT COLOURFUL PRODUCTION OF WEST SIDE STORY

W

est Side Story has a history of topping lists and polls of the best musicals.

But then again, with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and choreography by Jerome Robbins, it’s no real mystery why. The story is a classic – a reimagining of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet set in 1950s New York on the Upper West Side, where the star-crossed lovers hark from rival gangs. Maria and Tony attempt to pursue their relationship amidst the tumult and conflict of their warring cliques with those infamous tragic consequences.

Such an outstanding basis for a story is both a blessing and curse for a director. On the one hand the choreography and the music is an excellent foundation on which to build a production. On the other, a famous film adaptation (featuring Natalie Wood’s now infamous Spanish accent) and a certain level of expectation from the audience means the pressure to deliver is on. Joey McNeely’s production managed on the whole to live up to its predecessors, only once or twice failing to fully realise Bernstein’s vision.

The musical is a story of conflicts and contrasts that McNeely has highlighted brilliantly through his use of costume, kitting the Jets out in almost exaggeratedly American duds all made up of military beiges and browns, whilst the Puerto Rican Sharks are decked out in exuberant and garishly bright colours. The dresses worn by the Puerto Rican women in the school dance scene were particularly eye-

catching, covered in sequins of clashing pinks and reds. The overall effect succeeds in visualising the main arc of the story (just in case you were confused by all the drama of Maria and Tony’s tragic predicament).

Anthony Festa, in his role as Tony, made a slightly underwhelming entrance, but his truly excellent voice and sincere delivery redeemed him. His rendition of Maria in particular was breath-taking and was made all the more impressive by the great technical difficulty of the song.

Meanwhile, Jessica Soza dazzled from start to finish as Maria. It is easy to

make the young, naïve Maria too wheedling and babyish, especially in the early scenes when she is complaining about her dress or moonily gazing down from the balcony of her apartment; Soza avoids this pitfall providing a well-rounded performance that takes Maria from the young girl at her first dance to the bereft but defiant woman draped over the body of her lover.

The supporting cast worked brilliantly as an ensemble with two of their standout numbers being 'America' and 'Officer Krupkee' – both had the audience whooping and cheering by the end. The only jarring note was Mark MacKillop’s portrayal of Riff, which lacked some of the roguish charm of the irreverent and reckless character, making his dominion over the Jets unconvincing.

McNeely took few risks on his production but, in this case, that is not necessarily a criticism.

West Side Story’s themes of racism, apathy, corruption, gang culture, poverty and immigration are all issues that exist now, perhaps even more pervasively than they did then. The controversy is already woven into the story and unnecessary embellishment or overstatement cheapens it; McNeely’s restraint, casting choices and wonderful attention to the detail of the choreography all combine to make this a standout production and one well worth watching.

To book tickets, visit atgtickets.com/ shows/west-side-story

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*

Opening Times: Mon/Tues/Wed/Fri 9am-7pm | Sat 9am-6pm | Sun 11am-5pm LATE NIGHT THURS 9AM-9PM

*

141 Northcote Road, London SW11 6PX | 020 7135 3577 | salon@allaboutthegirl.info

All about the girl.indd 1

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ABSOLU TELY

CATWALK & CLOSET

THINK PINK CARVEN’S COTTON CANDY COATS ADD A FEMININE SPLASH OF COLOUR TO A WINTER WARDROBE

Temperley London, available from net-a-porter.com Available from Matches, 34 High Street, Wimbledon, SW19, 020 8947 8707; matchesfashion.com

Nov_Fashion_Opener.indd 21

09/10/2013 16:51

Open Sundays 12pm-5pm

ZENITH DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDERERS EST. 1982

QUALITY CLOTHES DESERVE QUALITY CARE

Beautiful Bespoke Jewellery

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Available from Harrods Liberty London The Conran Shop Cologne and Cotton Fortnum & Mason

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www.zenithdrycleaners.co.uk

09/10/2013 15:45

For more stockists contact Senti 39b High Street, Wimbledon Village, London, SW19 5BY T: 0208 947 5179 senti.co.uk

10/10/2013 16:17

ABSOLU TELY

CATWALK & CLOSET

SHADY LADY

Who says you can’t wear sunnies in winter?

For some sunglasses to swoon over, try new brand Taylor Morris’s range of slick tortoiseshell numbers. From £125;

Editorc’ks Pi

taylormorriseyewear.com

MONO MAGIC

We’ve got our hearts set on one of the houndstooth handbags from Accessorize.

Perfect for tapping both the AW13 monochrome and heritage trend in one fell swoop, it’s female multi-tasking at its very best. Centre Court Shopping Centre, Queen’s Road, SW19, 020 8944 1167; uk.accessorize.com

FASHION NOTES CELESTIAL SLIPPERS

STAR QUALITY

To celebrate 200 years of our favourite department store, the Designers at Debenhams have put their heads together and come up with the 200 Year Collection, a range showcasing the most stunning pieces from each of the designers. This sequin dress from Star by Julien MacDonald is a real showstopper.

315 Lavender Hill, SW11, 0844 561 6161; debenhams.com

Made from luxurious black velvet and gold embroidery, we love these ‘Sun, Moon and Star’ slippers from French Sole. Guaranteed to put a twinkle in your eye… £160; frenchsole.com

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NEW

WAVE How to do the AW13 punk trend with a sophisticated spin Photography: Olgaรง Bozalp

Styling: Clementine King

NOV SHOOT.indd 24

09/10/2013 17:08

WHITE MESH T-SHIRT, IRO, £206, IRO.FR BLACK COAT, IRO, £547, IRO.FR BLACK LACE UP SHOES, HUDSON, £120, HUDSONSHOES.COM BLACK TROUSERS, JAMES LAKELAND, £129, JAMESLAKELAND.NET

NOV SHOOT.indd 25

09/10/2013 17:08

RED JACKET, A LA DISPOSITION, £785, ALADISPOSITIONSTORE.COM BLACK FOX TAIL WORN AS HAIRPIECE, JESSIE WESTERN, £39, 82B PORTOBELLO ROAD W11

NOV SHOOT.indd 26

09/10/2013 17:08

LONG BLACK DRESS WITH LEATHER DETAIL, NATASHA ZINKO, £1300, NATASHAZINKO.COM

NOV SHOOT.indd 27

09/10/2013 17:08

HEADPIECE, A LA DISPOSITION, POA, ALADISPOSITIONSTORE.COM WHITE SHIRT, FRANCESCA MAROTTA, POA, FRANCESCAMAROTTA.COM BLACK DRESS WORN AS SKIRT, RED OR DEAD, £35, BANKFASHION.CO.UK BULLET BAR RING, LOVEBULLETS, £70, LOVEBULLETS.CO.UK STERLING SILVER RING WITH CHAIN AND SKULL DETAIL, HANNAH WARNER, £165, HANNAHWARNER.COM GOLD PLATED RING WITH CHAIN AND SKULL DETAIL, HANNAH WARNER, £170, HANNAHWARNER.COM

CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHER: OLGAÇ BOZALP STYLIST: CLEMENTINE KING MAKE UP: MICHELLE DACILLO USING NARS COSMETICS AND CAUDALÍE SKINCARE HAIR:JOHN MULLAN AT STONE HAIR STYLING ASSISTANT: ATESER ALDEMIR PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: LUCY RICHARDS, ERSIN ONUR

NOV SHOOT.indd 28

09/10/2013 17:08

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AGLAEA_v2.indd 2

09/10/2013 17:16

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

Feel

THE HEAT Grate Expectations fireplace specialists have been established for over 25 years and remain a family business. October hosts the celebration of our newly refurbished showroom in Wimbledon, where you can view a range of working models from the best fire and stove manufacturers around.

Whether you are interested in a DRU, Faber, Stovax, Newman, Dovre or an Esse, our team are on hand to offer expert, friendly advice.

Wood Burning Stoves: Summer has come and gone, and Christmas is just around the corner. What better way to warm up your home than with a wood-burning stove.

Higher in efficiency than the traditional open fires, today’s wood burning stoves are cleaner and extremely economical. Our range of manufacturers consist of Stovax, Dovre, Chilli Penguin, Esse and many more. We also supply and install Defra approved stoves.

WIMBLEDON’S GRATE EXPECTATIONS PICK THEIR TOP BRANDS FOR A FABULOUS FIREPLACE THIS SEASON Dru Fires: If you are looking for a truly elegant focal point to your room that is stylish and in keeping with the character of your home, then you should consider a Dru Fire. With so many design choices, integration options and fuel types you are bound to find something suited to your needs. Whether a gas stove or a see-through built-in glass fireplace in an interior wall, the heat output generated by Dru Fires add warmth and ambiance to your home.

Faber Fires: There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting in front of a fire on a cold winters day, gazing into the flickering flames and spending time with family.

Faber fireplaces offer style, dependability, quality and affordability. With so many options available to you – along with the stunning look of the fireplace in your living room, dining room, or sitting room – Grate Expectations recommend Faber Fires.

For expert advice on purchasing a fireplace or stove and installation services please contact Grate Expectations Fireplace Specialists: Office: 020 8540 8387 Showroom: 020 8543 9989 www.grateexpectations.com info@grateexpectations.com

30

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ABSOLU TELY

CATWALK & CLOSET NOCTURNE DAMAIO NECKLACE

£138; anthropolgie.eu

Editor’s Pick Y.A.S PARADE LEATHER & STRETCH CREPE BLAZER

£105; harveynichols.com

MEDIUM NATALIA SHOULDER BAG WITH GOLD PLATED LOCK

£POA; tomford.com

ANNE SATCHEL

£995; aspinaloflondon.com ROKSANDA ILINCIC CRACKED & LAMINATED SKIRT

£605; brownsfashion.com

MONICA SHIRT

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN BOW FRONT KNUCKLE BOX CLUTCH

£119; hobbs.co.uk

£1,145; matchesfashion.com

NEW ROMANTICS EMBRACE FASHION’S DARK SIDE AS THE NIGHTS DRAW IN

ANABELLE EMBROIDERED DRESS

£150; phase-eight.co.uk

BCBGMAXAZRIA STUDDED LACE ANKLE BOOTS

£280; harveynichols.com

31

FASHION PRODUCTS.Nov.indd 31

09/10/2013 16:58

No Knives, No Scars, Just Great Results!

We can treat a range of conditions with our new state of the art MeDioStar NeXT Ascleption laser technology:

Including

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Find out more about new non-invasive techniques that are transforming cosmetic surgery procedures by the use of lasers and injectables.

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07/06/2013 17:40

DAVID GATELY.indd 1

10/06/2013 10:00

•ADVERTS.indd 2

10/10/2013 15:26

ABSOLU TELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

3

OF THE

BEST CITRUS FACE PRODUCTS

3

1

2 01 Urban Veda Purifying Daily Facial Wash with Orange, £7.99; urbanveda.co.uk 02 Ole Henrikson Truth Serum Collagen Booster with Vitamin C, £71; selfridges.com 03 Dr. Renaud Lime Purifying Concentrate, £24.95; drrenaud.co.uk

BEAUTY Confidential

BALMY AUTUMN

NAME GAME

Is the cold weather catching up with you? Help tired skin with MAC’S Prep + Prime Beauty BB Palm Compact SPF 30, which enhances facial contours and adds light to shadowed areas. £23, Available from Morleys of Brixton, 472-488 Brixton Road, SW9, 0870 192 5359;

Keep your busy family bathroom in order with these stylish alphabet washbags from Oliver Bonas. Simply assign an initial and hey presto!

No more arguments over the toothpaste.

86 Putney High Street, SW15, 020 8789 3590;

maccosmetics.co.uk

oliverbonas.com

SPA OF THE MONTH SPA LONDON Wimbledon

W

SOAPS UP

Using high quality fragrances from the perfume capital of Grasse, we love these luxurious triple-milled Marseille soaps from Branche d’Olive. Try the signature ‘Garrigue’ scent – a refreshing and stimulating mix of citrus, bergamot and lavender. Perfect for an indulgent echo of Provence.

branche-dolive.com

imbledon Leisure Centre’s brand new spa LONDON is impressive. Equipped with not only its own aroma steam room, sauna and ice fountain, it also boasts an absolutely huge relaxation room filled with soft lighting and comfy beds to have a snooze on between treatments.

I tried the Rassoul Cleanse, an hour-long treatment which takes place in the dedicated Hammam suite and uses authentic Moroccan products by La Sultane de Saba. Wrapped in a mask of pure Moroccan lava clay, honey and shea butter, the mineral-rich

mixture draws out the skin’s toxins. After it had been rinsed off, a nourishing shea butter massage followed, which left my skin feeling soft and smooth.

Next I sampled a 25 minute Clarity Facial using soothing Elemis products – a brilliantly speedy pick-me-up for my tired skin thanks to the healing hands of the skilled therapist. All in all, a blissful experience. The only downside? Changing rooms are shared with all the other leisure centre goers, including kids – not exactly the most relaxing end to your treatment. Just one more excuse then to head back to that heavenly relaxation room...

By Ursula Van der Vorm.

Wimbledon Leisure Centre, Latimer Road, SW19, 020 8542 1330; spa-london.org

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BEAUTY notes.indd 33

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OH-SO SMOOTH THE SCIENCE OF PERFECT SKIN

Advanced Skincare Treatments HYDROPEPTIDE BRIGHTENING FACIAL:

Evens out, lightens and brightens all skin types.

This brightening facial will increase skin health with antioxidants.

PRICE PER TREATMENT: £50 COURSE OF 6 SESSIONS: £250

HYROPEPTIDE INFUSION TREATMENTANTI WRINKLE PLUS CACI SIGNATURE FACIAL: This relaxing treatment infuses skin with rejuvenating antioxidants to fight free radicals which can damage the skin and by adding CACI to this treatment, this technique exercises facial muscles which firms skin and stimulates collagen.

Benefits: After just one treatment, expression lines appear relaxed, skin is glowing, texture is smoother and skin is plumped PRICE PER TREATMENT: £120 COURSE OF 5 SESSIONS: £480 COURSE OF 10 SESSIONS: £900

117 Wimbledon Park Road, London SW18 5TU 020 8870 9882 • www.oh-so-smooth.com Oh so Smooth.indd 1

10/10/2013 17:26

ABSOLU TELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Editor’ks Pic

LASH UP

01

06

02

OF THE BEST

MASCARAS

05

04

08 03

07

01. YVES SAINT LAURENT BABY DOLL MASCARA, £24.50; yslbeauty.co.uk 02. NARS LARGER THAN LIFE LENGTHENING MASCARA, £18.50; narscosmetics.co.uk 03. LIZ EARLE, LASH DEFINITION SMUDGEPROOF MASCARA, £14.50; uk.lizearle.com 04. DIOR DIORSHOW NEW LOOK MASCARA, £23; dior.com 05. MAX FACTOR 2000 CALORIE MASCARA, £6.99; boots.com 06. GIVENCHY NOIR COUTURE WATERPROOF MASCARA, £22.50; givenchybeauty.com 07. MAC IN EXTREME DIMENSION 3D BACK LASH, £18; maccosmetics.co.uk 08. LANCÔME PARIS HYPNÔSE DRAMA BY ALBER ELBAZ, £23; lancome.co.uk

35

Sept_Beauty_Products.indd 35

09/10/2013 16:13

30% OFF Soprano Laser Hair Removal Treatments start from £37 per session

Discount is only availble on Soprano laser hair removal packages (6 & 8). This is a limited period offer can be withdrawn at anytime

“Imagine getting permanent hair reduction in an area of your choice - without pain. The award winning Soprano laser technology does exactly that.

Unlike most other lasers and IPL devices, it allows gentle heating of the hair follicle, which diminishes discomfort and reduces damage to the skin.

The laser light the Soprano uses is set to an ‘elite wavelength’ making it safe and effective at taking away your unwanted hair.

Try the technology FREE with a patch test by calling the clinic.”

PAINLESS TECHNOLOGY

FREE PATCH TEST & SKIN ANALYSIS Visit Our Website for more information and treatment videos

1-2 St Andrews Close, Wimbledon SW19 8NJ 0208 543 9798 • hello@wimbledonclinicaesthetics.co.uk

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Call Now: 0208 543 9798

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10/10/2013 14:56

10% Discount for Absolutely Readers when you bring in this ad!

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Call: 0208 944 9919 to book your appointment with resident Orthotist Serena Stubbs, who will help you get back on your feet.

Next to Wimbledon Park tube. 132-134 Arthur Road Wimbledon SW19 8AA www.abilitymatters.co.uk/clinic-wimbledon Email: info@abilitymatters.co.uk

ABILITY MATTERS.indd 1

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IF YOU LEAD AN ACTIVE LIFE . . .

10/10/2013 12:03

10/10/2013 15:27

ABSOLU TELY

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Scent of

SELF LAWRENCE ROULLIER WHITE GIVES ABSOLUTELY HIS TOP TIPS ON HOW TO CREATE A FRAGRANCE WARDROBE…

I

n Hollywood’s heyday it wasn’t unusual for stars to be synonymous with one particular scent. Gloria Swanson scented the set of Sunset Boulevard with Caron’s Narcisse Noir, Cary Grant spritzed Eight & Bob and Grace Kelly famously walked down the aisle — a walk that was to make her Princess of Monaco — wearing a perfume created to replicate the aroma of her wedding bouquet: Fleurissimo by Creed.

But that was then. Too often people focus on trying to find that single signature scent. My best advice? Spare yourself the struggle and start your own ‘fragrance wardrobe’.

In the same way that your weekday suit should be different to the red-carpetworthy gown you might throw on for an evening out, no one perfume should be expected to fit every occasion.

For day try something light, fresh and zingy.

Carthusia’s Mediterraneo is a chic and sparkling number from Capri with crushed lemon leaves and green tea. Or Caldey Island Lavender Water made by Cistercian monks of coastal Wales is a cool and sophisticated minty

lavender. La Tulipe by Byredo is uncomplicated, fun and fresh, whilst Aedes de Venustus – a new scent from the New York perfumery of the same name – is an addictive combination of rhubarb and vetiver. This remarkable scent leaps from the bottle and I defy anyone to wear it without a smile.

Evening fragrances are inevitably more sensual.

Tuberose is a nightblooming plant said to drive men wild with desire and thus traditionally harvested only by married women in India. Mona di Orio’s incandescent Tubereuse teamed with an LBD is bound to turn heads.

There are no hard and fast rules when choosing a fragrance, but it is wise to remember the perfume mantra: mood, occasion and season.

It is also important to remember that everyone’s

skin is different and an individual’s chemical make-up will react in a unique way to every perfume, so while you may love a fragrance you should also make sure that it loves you back.

In the end, let the people around you be a guide – when friends, waitresses, people in the supermarket queue stop you to ask what perfume you’re wearing, you can rest assured that you have found a partnership that will last. And when the glass window of a taxi rolls down and the driver enquires then, trust me, you have found your perfect match. rouillerwhite.com

37

PERFUMES.indd 37

10/10/2013 10:25

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.

Sound Accessible Nutrition | Metabolic Workouts | Intelligent Lifestyle Support

www.louiseparker.uk.com Telephone: 0800 084 2828

FULL PAGE.indd 2

23/09/2013 12:59

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

You’ve got that loving

PEELING

Bellissima’s best beauty buy Are you in search of skin care that feels good, smells good and really works? Then discover the ‘latest wonder serum’ from award-winning CACI International. This powerful lifting serum utilises a unique combination of peptides and amino acids to inhibit the contraction of facial muscles and achieve a Botox® like effect. The Amino-Lift Peptide Complex is available from Bellissima for £49.

WIMBLEDON’S BELLISSIMA BEAUTY BOUTIQUE ON HOW TO LOOK AMAZING THIS AUTUMN

J

ust because the summer has gone doesn’t mean you should stop protecting your skin from environmental damage.

This autumn, reveal a bright, radiant complexion and help repair damaged skin with a DR Murad Vitamin C or AHA Peel.

These restorative treatments combine powerful antioxidants and fruit enzymes to exfoliate and peel away dull complexions.

Prices from £35-£70

A salon with a difference Tired of cold, clinical beauty salons that make each visit feel more like a trip to the GP than a pampering experience?

So are we! Situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village, you will find the finest boutique beauty salon, Bellissima.

Specialising in a wide range of products and treatments to suit every beauty need, the salon provides a relaxed atmosphere in a modern setting. Our experienced therapists are here to help you not only look good, but feel fabulous! Whether it be a glamorous long-lasting gel manicure, semi-permanent eyelash extensions, a decadent body massage or an intensive facial, we guarantee that we will do our best to cater to your every beauty need.

And with an amazing 30% off on your first visit to us, Bellissima Beauty Boutique is your ultimate beauty destination.

Bellissima Beauty Boutique, 33 Church Road, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5DQ 020 89712150; bellissimawimbledon.co.uk

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The new independent co-educational senior school for West London

OPEN DAYS October 23rd (7pm) November 7th/21st (9.30am/9.30am) December 3rd/10th (9.30am/7pm)

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

Places Available in Years 7, 8 & 9 KEW HOUSE SCHOOL_NOV.indd 2

07/10/2013 14:32

ABSOLU TELY

FAMILY FUN

Editoric’sk P

CREATURE COMFORTS

Home of durable and colourful unisex clothing for children, Tootsa MacGinty’s new AW13 range of adorable knitted jumpers and comfy cords now goes up to ages 7 – 8.

How ideal! Available at Little Legs Company, Northcote Road, SW11, 020 7223 9041; tootsamacginty.com

SKATER BOY

From Mr Perswall comes this fun, ‘easy-up,’ panelled wallpaper scene for tearaway tots on skateboards. Adding quirky cool to your little one’s bedroom, the company make proportioned rolls to fit specific wall measurements as well as offering a bespoke colour service. £27 per metre. Available at nubie.co.uk

Kids

NOTES

LIGHT RELIEF

We defy you to find lighting any cuter.

Perfect for mini Dr. Doolittles. £78; whiterabbitengland.com

BABY BOOTIES

We love these oh-so-sweet and snuggly sheepskin ballet booties from Babes with Babies. Guaranteed to keep tiny tootsies warm. £35; babeswithbabies.com

HOT WHEELS

Save on the commute and scoot to school in style with these nifty numbers.

Available from FW Evans Cycles UK Ltd, 167-173 Wandsworth High Street, SW18, 020 8870 9489; micro-scooters.co.uk

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APPLE&BEES.indd 2

09/09/2013 14:31

ABSOLU TELY

FAMILY FUN

BATTERSEA-BASED CHILDREN’S EVENTS DUO SHARKY AND GEORGE CHAT TO EDWINA LANGLEY ABOUT SCHOOL PRANKS, BREAKING WORLD RECORDS AND NEVER GROWING OLD

C

hildren’s parties. Shudder.

Yes, nothing might give you more pleasure than seeing your little darling rushing around, having the time of their lives as all those weeks of pre-party chatter finally come to fruition. But these days, ‘Smarty Artie’ just won’t cut it, and there’s something about all that action and sugar-induced tantrums that make you want to mentally implode, shove a cake bowl over your head and lock yourself in the pantry until it’s over.

But apparently it doesn’t have to be that way, and the answer isn’t even that complicated. ‘When we do parties,’ says George Whitefield, co-founder of children’s events and activities company Sharky and George, ‘we mostly turn up with a rucksack, a few yoga mats, a tug-of-war rope, a giant catapult and some sweets. With that, we entertain 30 or so children… for two hours.’ Sound too good to be true? I thought so.

George and fellow co-founder, Charlie Astor (aka ‘Sharky’), started their business following an unforgettable school prank. ‘We were in the main hall where everyone was watching,’ explains Charlie, when we met for breakfast near their Battersea offices. ‘We put a funnel down our trousers, and coins on our foreheads, which had to drop down into the funnel. We intentionally messed it up, to the point that our housemaster thought he’d give it a go. Down his trousers went the funnel, coin on his head, and we grabbed a glass of water and poured that down the funnel instead.

He chuckled a bit, but soon after summoned us to his office. We thought we were in for the motherof-all-tellings-off. But what he actually said was, ‘You guys would be fantastic for my daughter’s children’s birthday.’ We went along and ended up doing grandmother’s footsteps and tug of war – it was a great success.’

From there, the duo earned themselves a reputation for imaginative birthday parties, which they tried out on George’s nephews and nieces whilst

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FAMILY FUN

IT’S RUMOURED THEY’VE HOSTED PARTIES FOR SIR PAUL MCCARTNEY

studying at Bristol University.

Following graduation, both were lured by the bright lights of the Capital, but continued to organise parties on the side. ‘We were basically doing 9am-5pm during the week and children’s parties at the weekend,’ George tells me, ‘so it was pretty full on. It got to the point where we had to sneak out of the office and take calls from mothers trying to book parties. We finally thought it was time to give up the serious jobs and focus on having fun.’

‘My parents didn’t initially go for the idea,’ admits Charlie, ‘I think they thought George and I were just going to doss around.

But then they saw our business plan and came on board.’

That was in 2007. Today, their business is booming. Literally. They tell me about a party they held for 9-10 years olds which was sold to the kids as a ‘camping weekend,’ but actually involved car chases, mock-kidnappings, laser guns and some helicopters. As you do. But in

spite of the gadgets and gizmos, the heart of their business lies in getting children to have fun.

‘The children are the action, and the whole crux of S&G is using your imagination, using what you’ve got, what’s around you, so you don’t have to rely on big props,’ says Charlie. ‘We also pride ourselves on our ability to get even the shyest of children involved. Some parents say ‘My child doesn’t get involved, they just like to watch.’ So we leave them for a game or two, then draw them in. By the end of the party, they’ve had a wonderful time. It helps that we are ‘older brother figures’, not some scary entertainer.’

It is that fundamental understanding of children that seems to have secured their success, and success they have indeed enjoyed – it’s rumoured they’ve hosted parties for such parents as Elizabeth Hurley and Sir Paul McCartney. In and amongst this, they have found time to founder The Exploration Society – organising first aid and team-building expeditions for schools – and they’ve also written an adventure book which they plan to launch into space. It all sounds quite farcical – and I found myself at times nodding in disbelief – but what else could I have expected from the pair who bring dreams to life for a living?

They tell me they take their inspiration from, in Charlie’s case, ‘never growing up’ and in George’s, ‘being a little immature,’ despite the fact that George is married with a young baby and is shortly to turn 30, as Charlie was keen to remind me. ‘Sharky’ was also keen to reveal that one of his greatest achievements in life was breaking the 2009 world record for the fastest 100m dressed as a pantomime horse, categorised in the great book under ‘Bizarre Behaviour.’

We ended our breakfast discussing the origins of their name. ‘It came from our favourite children’s programme Sharky and George, but my nickname, ‘Sharky’ came from a suspect hairstyle I had at university, which made my head look like a fin,’ says Charlie, trying to imitate it.

I later found out that Sharky and George actually originated from the time they were swimming in the Bristol Channel and were convinced they saw a shark in the waters. Rushing from the sea to alert the lifeguard, they later discovered the menacing ‘fin’ was, in fact, a tin can.

Actually that’s a lie. I made it up. Turns out it’s not just the kids they get acting childishly… sharkyandgeorge.com

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YACHTSWOMAN TRACY EDWARDS CHATS TO ABSOLUTELY ABOUT HER VENTURE INTO THE WORLD OF ONLINE SAFETY

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issue of safety, started to talk to other parents and then people of all ages. Whilst the internet provides piecemeal information, there was nothing available offline which really tackled the whole issue of safety – both online and offline for 21st century needs. I’ve teamed up with some of the best experts in the country including one of the UK’s most experienced child protection investigators, as well as a SAStrained safety adviser to run the courses and workshops. We’ll make sure that everyone can take positive yet simple steps to make their world safer.

ecord breaking yachtswoman Tracy Edwards MBE understands exactly how to stay safe whilst navigating through danger. Her motto during the 1990 Whitbread Round The World Race was ‘better prepared than scared’ in the treacherous seas. She became the first person in yachting history to skipper an all-female crew and crossed the finishing line in second place.

In 2005, Putney-based Tracy retired from sailing and now dedicates her work to empowering people to stay safe and to protect themselves in both the real and virtual online world. Absolutely caught up with Tracy to find out about her new venture, Safer World Training.

Q&A Absolutely: Tell us about Safer World Training.

Tracy Edwards: Safer World Training provides courses and workshops in online safety and personal safety in all situations. It is only by understanding potential danger that we can avoid it, so we empower through education.

Abs: Who are you aiming this at?

TE: Everyone! From very young children who begin to go online, to parents who want to understand the online jungle and potential hazards for children – particularly 12-13 year olds who are most at risk. iT'S It's also for women who want the confidence to feel safe and know how to deal with emergency situations, people working abroad in risky areas, students travelling

abroad and the over 50s who want to understand the online world and how to protect themselves.

Abs: Why did you decide to embark on this venture?

TE: The world is certainly a far riskier place than when I grew up.

Every day we read headlines about internet trolls, cyber-bullying, students travelling and facing peril, kidnappings... These issues won’t go away, but what you can do is look at how to stay safe and mitigate risk. I believe that we must all take control of and responsibility for our safety.

I’m definitely more aware about this since having a child and particularly now that she’s a teenager. I looked into the whole

THE WORLD IS CERTAINLY A FAR RISKIER PLACE THAN WHEN I GREW UP

Abs: Trolls and cyber bullies have been making the headlines recently and websites such as Ask.FM in particular.

TE: The papers tend to suggest that website such as these should be banned, but do you think this is the right action?

No one really knows the answer to this question. There are many theories, but remember that we are in unchartered waters here. If websites are banned, do they just pop up somewhere else in a country which has even less regulations?

Therefore is there a better way to regulate these sites that involves global co-operation? The withdrawal of advertising from some of these sites has had the positive effect of speeding up their safeguarding efforts. The debate will continue between the relevant entities. What is very clear though is that educating your child and engaging with them and their technology is absolutely the best way to keep them safe.

To find out more about the courses and workshops call 020 8780 5982 or saferworldtraining.com

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TEACHER’S RENOWNED DOG TRAINER VICTORIA STILWELL OF CHANNEL 4’S IT’S ME OR THE DOG EXPLAINS TO ANDY GREEVES WHY WIMBLEDON WILL ALWAYS BE HOME

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est known for her hit TV series It’s Me or the Dog, it would be fair to call Wimbledon-born Victoria Stilwell ‘the dog whisperer’.

Teaching responsible dog ownership and promoting training techniques based on positive reinforcement, It’s Me or the Dog became an instant hit for Channel 4 when it was first broadcast in the UK in 2005. Initially commissioned for just one series, It’s Me or the Dog would eventually have eight series produced and be screened in over 80 countries to date, changing attitudes to dog training and making Victoria a star in the process. ‘I still can’t get over its success and of course I am absolutely delighted with it,’ she smiles.

So, how did Stilwell come up with the idea for such a successful show?

It would seem that it was badly behaved creatures of the two-legged variety that were her source of inspiration. Watching an episode of Supernanny one evening, Stilwell had a light bulb moment, realising that the show’s concept of addressing

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HOUSE & GARDEN problematic behaviour in children could be equally well applied to dogs. ‘I was working as a dog trainer in Manhattan and New Jersey with two different businesses,’ explains Victoria. ‘I had become very disillusioned and upset with the number of animals I was seeing at the local shelters being put down because of behaviour issues or other circumstances.

I wanted to get information out to people in a big way, so after watching the first episode of Supernanny I thought could produce something like this for dogs.’ An email to the show’s production company Ricochet Television followed and, by the morning, the organisation had replied with an excited interest in the idea.

It’s Me or the Dog helped turn Stilwell into a familiar face on our TV screens, yet this wasn’t her first appearance on our sets. The trainer initially enjoyed her own 15 minutes of fame as an actress, appearing on police drama The Bill, as well as Bram Stoker’s Dracula. ‘From about the age

of six years old growing up in Wimbledon, I wanted to be an actress,’ says Victoria. ‘My best friend’s father was Tommy Steele and, whilst he was predominantly known as a rock ‘n’ roll act, he also appeared in films and musicals. He was quite an inspiration, as was my mother who was a ballerina.’

These appearances proved inspirational for Stilwell, giving her exposure to some of the best actors in the business: ‘Being on The Bill was great fun. It was such a fantastic British institution and home to so many great actors. I appeared in Bram Stoker’s Dracula too which, even though my one speaking line sadly got cut from the film, it was still great to be on set with the likes of Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins and Keanu Reeves and, of course, work under the great director and producer Francis Ford Coppola. It was an experience of a lifetime for sure.’

Yet it was her dog-training which would lead Stilwell to fame, a career path inspired by her home town of Wimbledon.

‘Wimbledon Common was somewhere I spent a great deal of time growing up. It’s where my love for dogs and work with them began because I used to walk them there. One of my earliest memories is being on the Common with my best friend Kate – it holds some very dear memories. We must have cycled round it hundreds of times over the years!’ she tells me with a smile.

Paws for Thought THINKING OF GETTING A DOG? VICTORIA STILWELL GIVES ABSOLUTELY HER ADVICE…

Ensure that every member of the family wants a dog.

It is especially important for parents not to be taken in by their child asking for a dog unless it suits everyone. The amount of times children get bored of a dog, or of course grow up and move away, means that you need to know you are able to be the primary carer of that dog.

Do your research.

Imagine a dog could interview you and find out whether it wanted to live with you. If you’re satisfied that the answers you give would make the dog happy, then you know whether or not you should get one. It also helps you know what kind of dog you want – high energy, low energy, affectionate, independent etc.

Try your very best to get a dog from a rescue home.

Don’t buy from a pet store or puppy farm. If you want to go down the breeder route, then do as much research as possible to make sure you are going somewhere that supports ethical practices.

Give your dog a good canine education.

We need to educate dogs about how they live with us. Take them to training classes or get a trainer in your home. When it comes to behavioural issues, I always say prevention is better than cure.

For more information on Victoria Stilwell, the Victoria Stilwell Foundation, to purchase her book online or contact her team of dog trainers across the UK, visit positively.com

A former Wimbledon High School pupil, Victoria’s connection with Wimbledon is a special one, and as she tells me about her childhood, her words are peppered with sweet, nostalgic memories: ‘I was born in Wimbledon and tennis played quite a big part in my life growing up – my father was a keen player and we went every year. I was baptised, confirmed and married at St Mary’s Church off Church Road where my mum had her dance school, so that’s a very special place for me, and my dad used to take me to Cannizaro Park. He sadly passed away ten years ago but whenever I’m there I take my daughter and play the same games he used to play there with me.’

With America her home for over a decade now, Victoria volunteers as an adoption counsellor for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), organising support dogs to go with the family of victims of 9/11 to ground zero. ‘The comfort that those dogs provided families in the most difficult time of their lives cannot be understated,’ she tells me as she explains her decision to set up the Victoria Stilwell Foundation. The Foundation provides financial support and advice to dog organisations and rescue shelters in the UK, USA and Europe that put Stilwell’s ethos into practise by promoting the concept of reward-based, positive reinforcement dog training. It’s a project which is obviously close to Stilwell’s heart, and she talks about it with a genuine sense of enthusiasm.

Ever busy, Victoria released her third dog training book entitled Train Your Dog Positively earlier this year.

But the plans don’t stop there; work on another TV series has begun and a school for trainers in both the UK and US will be launching in early 2014.

Viewers prepare yourselves: there’s still a lot more tailwagging to come…

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22 Nov 2013 – 15 Feb 2014 Polka Theatre presents

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©DARI BAE

n July I opened an exhibition in SW11 showing new works made by a group of artists with strong ties to the local area. As part of the creative process, seven artists held workshops for around 40 children and young people during the lead up to the show. Offering classes in drawing, painting, sculpture and collaborative art, three of these workshops were held at Wandsworth youth clubs.

Works made by 8 to 24 year olds were displayed in the exhibition alongside those of the established artists, an approach which proved popular with workshop participants, collaborating charities and exhibition visitors.

My motivation was largely artistic entrepreneurship. The process engaged children and

© REI MATSUSHIMA

‘Through the arts we learn to see what we had not noticed, to feel what we had not felt, and to employ forms of thinking that are indigenous to the arts. These experiences are consequential, for through them we engage in a process through which the self is re-made.’ ~ Prof. Elliot W. Eisner

LOCAL CURATOR MEL BARRY TELLS ABSOLUTELY ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF ART EDUCATION young people in self-expression and skill discovery, while giving them exposure to professional artists and therefore new influences and networks.. Moreover, the deadline created by the exhibition added a learn-by-doing dimension, with the emphasis on concept development, progress and completion regardless of age or experience.

The exhibition also gave me the opportunity to learn more about local charities with artistic programmes that provide stimuli for future employment prospects and career choices. Access and exposure to the arts helps develop self-expression – a resource which becomes invaluable as it transitions from dreams and ideas to skills, achievement or a passion for work.

Inspirational artistic experiences seem to have borne the brunt of school, university and council budget pressures, combined with

EXPOSURE TO THE ARTS HELPS DEVELOP SELFEXPRESSION

ABOVE ‘Dancers 2,’ a digital print on paper (edition of five) inspired by a drawing workshop at Dance United LEFT A collaborative art workshop was held at Devas for around 10 young people

the ongoing emphasis on exams and expense of some extracurricular courses and classes. Accessible and out-of-hours arts programmes which fill this gap clearly benefit the wider community. In the spirit of the Battersea motto Non mihi, Non tibi, Sed nobis – ‘Neither for myself, nor for yourself, but for us’, here are some local examples.

BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE The BAC has a published methodology for its mission to ‘invent the future of theatre’, which is structured as a mnemonic of the word ‘THEATRE’. This includes ‘Education and Employment’ – inventing new employment opportunities using theatrical process to imagine models of employment with the young and old taking a more active role in civic society. As a result, some young people participating in the BAC’s ‘Homegrown’ programme have gone on to become Homegrown producers and front of house employees.

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PLANS ARE UNDERWAY FOR A 2014 GROUP EXHIBITION TO ENCOURAGE NEW ARTISTIC CAPITAL TO EMERGE AND FLOURISH

CAIUS HOUSE From temporary premises while a new centre is under construction the club’s link to creative multi-media company Tiger-Eye Media enables experimental projects such as music video production, photo shoots and short films.

DEVAS CLUB With a vision to become a centre of excellence in the creative and performing arts for young people in south London, Devas offers programmes on acquiring skills for future employment opportunities, including choreography, printmaking, graphic arts, and lighting and sound techniques.

GENERATE This project helps young people with mild to moderate special needs and learning difficulties increase their ability to live independently. Arts and crafts are included in the line-up of activities at their youth club near Clapham Junction.

LEFT Children and their parents at the exhibition worked alongside sculptor Sophie Marsham to create a tree sculpture. Bottle tops collected from pubs in Clapham, Battersea and Putney were painted for the making of the piece.

RIGHT During a drawing workshop at Off the Streets, a weekly youth club run by S.T.O.R.M., participants drew each other’s faces with eyes closed and from memory both from photographs and life. They experimented with colour by photographing their drawings and uploading them to drawing apps to then redraw over them, slowly adding more colour and more lines. They talked as they worked, sharing and swapping ideas as they emerged.

S.T.O.R.M

HEBE FOUNDATION A range of projects to help 13 to 19 year olds build transferable skills, including those needed in business life. Project participants must first lodge an application which is followed by an interview process.

Prizes awarded for past projects have included paid work experience placements. Opportunities include Dream Workshops which offer young people two hours with industry professionals from a range of industries, including the arts, to explore career and job ideas.

Originally established to help single mothers, S.T.O.R.M is committed to providing services for the long-term unemployed. Their youth club has a creativity studio and plans to start an in-house record label.

The July exhibition proved a great success, with visitors saying they would like more workshop opportunities for their children, and charities and schools keen to host workshops that culminate in a public exhibition. Plans are underway for a 2014 group exhibition to encourage new artistic capital to emerge and flourish, connected with ideas about and prospects for the world of work. ideastap.com/People/mel_barry

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THE

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HOUSE & GARDEN MAD HATTERS

It may not be the world’s most obvious collaboration – quirky interior designer Abigail Ahern and much-loved department store Debenhams – but the new Edition range is an easy way to get your mitts on Ms Ahern’s unique, fantastical and downright bonkers creations at half the normal price.

Catch them while you can.

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COTTON EYE-CANDY

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INTERIOR NOTES LADY-LIKE LOUNGING

With its delicate proportions and rural charm, we love this sweet ‘Little Lady’ seat from Sofa Workshop. From £1659, 32-38 Battersea Rise, SW11, 020 7924 3967; sofaworkshop.com

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Made from a mix of mango wood and recycled old furniture, Barker and Stonehouse’s new Bleecker range has a distressedpainted finish so no two pieces are alike. 100 York Road, SW11, 020 3040 6000; barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

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RENOVATION D I A R I E S GEORGIE COLERIDGE COLE TAKES ABSOLUTELY ON HER JOURNEY AS SHE REFURBISHES HER WANDSWORTH HOME LET THERE BE LIGHT

ALL FABRICS FROM KORLA

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he house is still very much a building site but if I think of the process like a ‘V’ we are on the ascent and a few cosmetic bits are starting to go in – bifold doors, a shiny new bathroom and tiles – which means it is go-gogo and I need to get started on the cosmetic elements.

I am told by those in the know that (like everything) good lighting is crucial, but other than wanting spots instead of pendants I am pretty clueless. Knowing my electrician recommends LEDs over halogen, I set off to Mr Resistor on Garrett Lane (mr-resistor.co.uk) hoping it will all become clear (!).

Thankfully Marcus, one of their designers, is my knight in shining armour (no more light puns, I promise!) and it seems Mr Resistor, which has been in the world longer than I have, can answer all my lighting needs within a sensible budget. I’m told that their motto is ‘light, not light fittings’ and that it’s ‘not just about the latest light fitting on the market’ which is reassuring to a lighting novice.

I say ‘sensible’ with some caution however – lighting is expensive, our spreadsheet is bulging and the options are extensive, even for choosing something as mundane as a light switch. Sadly the smart, clear and pricey Forbes & Lomax switches are out as are the primed paintable type, but Mr R has something for all budgets and we settle on brushed steel for all switches and sockets (bathrooms aside, for which I am advised to go for polished).

After much debate with Marcus, we max the budget once more and opt for dimmable LED spots over halogens mainly because with over 60 in the house we’d rather not be changing bulbs every 5 minutes. LEDs are extremely energy efficient and therefore more cost effective, which pleases the accountant greatly.

Having walked up and down our new street more times than I can count, we have also concluded that Hunza Pillar lights are an essential too. All the rage it seems, they’re both good for security if you combine them with a sensor, and a smart finishing touch.

BRUSHED OR POLISHED?

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n the subject of switches, the choice of brushed or polished has been difficult to decide on.

Sophie at Child Stewart decisively suggests brushed for everything internally (so that is sockets, switches, all hooks, door and window furniture)

HUNZA PILLAR LIGHTS ARE AN ESSENTIAL

bar the bathroom where it should be polished, and the front door, where it can be either, or.

With that decision happily made, I am now choosing doors handles and knobs and finding them a lot more costly than anticipated. Until, that is, I come across Iron Mongery Direct (ironmongerydirect.co.uk) who blow everyone else out of the water.

The Northcote Road’s SDS has it all but so it seems do IMD, and my extravagant door knobs – a stunning Aglio cut glass that will add just a tasteful touch of bling to my calm palette – are literally more than half the price. For the handles, it’s the same saving with a stylish but plain glass Jedo door handle throughout.

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LEWIS & WOOD’S STOCKHOLM STITCH

THE PAINT DEBATE

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ophie has been a huge help when choosing my paint palette but when my builder tells me he needs all the paint before I go to Devon on Saturday, I have a small panic – Sophie is away and today is Thursday!

I have chosen the Slates (slate is the colour and like most Paint & Paper colours it varies in tone ranging from Slate I-V) and I am pretty sure I am going to stick to them throughout so that the house flows from one room to another, but it’s a massive decision; a friend recently had three rooms repainted because the colour was wrong and I can’t afford to do that. Under pressure, I head to The Paint House on the Northcote Road (thepainthouse. com), an interiors shop and design company that sells, alongside divine home accessories, designer paint brands: The Little Greene, Sanderson, Eico and, of course, Paint & Paper Library.

Thankfully Brenda, a paint specialist and one of the owners, is on hand and I share my Slate-IIIor-IV-for –the-bedrooms dilemma with her. ‘I don’t want to regret not having gone darker,’ I tell her, ‘but I’m nervous that IV is too much.’

She reassures me that Slate IV is

TOP TIP For colourful and contemporary fabrics that are second to none, do head to Korla (korlahome.com).

Relatively new to the UK, Korla makes bright and bold made-tomeasure curtains and blinds as well as a range of home accessories. I have ordered their ‘Grand Alhambra Stars’ fabric for my spare room headboard and cushions, which will team up perfectly with Slate IV walls and Romo Linara ‘Blossom’ curtains.

beautiful in bedrooms and that the palette is calm and not too dark, even at the IV end. I take the plunge and order Slate II for the kitchen, Slate III for above the dado rail, Slate IV for below the dado, in all bedrooms and the sitting room, Slate I for the ceilings and Slate II for all woodwork.

There is so much paint in the back of the car that I worry it will damage the suspension and this is only the first of many trips I will have to make to buy paint from The Paint House.

Lucky it’s local.

IT’S CURTAINS

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long with paint choices comes the even more daunting decision of soft furnishings. Curtains are a huge expense, so Fabrics & Papers (fabricsandpapers.com) are my hot pick for a curtain and soft furnishings company. They stock all the best fabrics and wallpapers and what they don’t stock, they can get. They offer a super fast sample service, are far more competitive than most and make everything from curtains and blinds to valances and cushions if you so wish.

In my Tonsley House most of my curtains are Romo Linara – a cotton linen blend that has a nice tight weave, comes in 222 colours and is a really reasonable price. It

ROMO LINARA

works equally well in a modern and traditional interior and, as I am such a fan, my new kitchen curtains will be in the same fabric and colour as my Tonsley ones.

For the sitting room, I have fallen in love with Lewis & Wood’s Stockholm Stitch in dusky pink to go with my dark grey velvet sofas and ottoman in ‘Zinc Attu Sage’. For the bathrooms and spare room, it is various Romo Linara colours, the children’s ‘Nursery Window Bunny’ curtains I am taking with us for Otto, and Coco will have Capella’s shutters.

For the master, a luxe dapple velvet that with my lano satine carpet and will be blissfully serene.

Editor & 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…

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SAVVY STYLE Absolutely talks to Lena Jones of Lena Jones Design about why hiring an interior designer can save you both time and money

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t’s something to think about if you haven’t already done so.

Hiring an interior designer is a smart decision if you’ve invested a good bit of money into your home and want to be able to showcase it to look its best. In today’s busy world where we are so often time poor, the sanctuary of a beautiful, relaxing and practical home environment becomes essential. In order to conceive your dream home without the added stress, why not secure the services of a professional who can help you plan and implement your perfect bespoke interior?

It might sound strange that hiring someone to decorate your home would save you money since you have the additional fee of the designer, however Lena Jones makes a good argument for it: ‘Hiring a designer can help you to avoid costly mistakes that will not only help you save money but can increase the value of your home.’

‘We can undertake a make over of one room to an entire house, carefully planning your chosen design with builders, decorators and suppliers to achieve cost effective, professional and beautiful schemes for your home.’

‘PUT ASIDE THE IDEA THAT INTERIOR DESIGNERS ARE ONLY FOR THE RICH AND FAMOUS – THEY CAN SAVE YOU A GREAT DEAL OF TIME AND MONEY,’

So how exactly does Lena come up with these schemes? ‘I encourage my clients to look through books and magazines and collect images that inspire them. Keeping them in a folder along with fabrics and colour samples is a great starting point and gives me a real sense of your taste and what you hope to achieve.’

In this way, Lena Jones Design will be able to build a stronger bridge between you and your architect or contractor early on and can head off design misses in your overall plan. This is crucial in managing time and money, since designers are trained to think about things we may overlook.

‘It’s so important that the lighting and furnishing needs are addressed before construction,’ continues Lena. ‘If your living room sofa is floating in a the middle of the room, you want to make sure you have the proper placement for floor outlets.’

Whether you have no idea where or how to begin to decorate your home or you simply haven’t the time to execute your style and desires due to your busy schedule, Lena Jones can help create your dream home.

Lena Jones Designs 01372 843888 www.lenajonesdesigns.com

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LET THERE BE LIGHT RENOWNED INTERIOR DESIGNER NINA CAMPBELL DRAWS BACK THE CURTAINS OF THIS VICTORIAN APARTMENT TO PROVIDE THE PERFECT BLANK CANVAS FOR HER ART COLLECTOR CLIENT

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his is an apartment I decorated for a Russian couple who have come to live in London. He is a major collector of really important contemporary art – some of it frankly quite challenging – which needed to be fitted into the decor without being overwhelmed by it. My clients are both passionate about music, concerts, football and good food and wine. In other words, they are very cultivated people, and they enjoy living in a calm and pleasant way. Because they travel a great deal, they need to relax when they arrive in London.

I can only describe the apartment as a 1970s leftover. However, it had terrific potential space as it was on the first floor of a grand Victorian building. Three French windows gave on to a drawing room with high ceilings and a balcony. The bedroom had the same handsome proportions and there was a good dining room

and a kitchen. But when we found it, all the doorways had been narrowed, the ceiling had been lowered in the hallway and the plasterwork had been painted a putty colour. My clients’ brief to me was very simple: ‘light’. They were desperate for more light so we opened up the whole apartment. She was adamant that she didn’t want any colour at all, just neutrals, although I did manage to introduce some muted shades of bronze. This was rather fun for me, as I had never done an interior entirely in neutrals before.

Instead of colour, I went for texture. And when I realised they were going to bring in some serious art, this neutral background made a great deal of sense to me, because suddenly the neutrals not only provided the right background for their art collection but were also very light-reflective and restful.

First, however, I had to eliminate the work of the 1970s developer, opening

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up the whole apartment to create more light and better spaces. The bathroom, for instance, had been cut in half, with one side becoming the bathroom for the guest room, and the other side a horrible bathroom off the main bedroom.

At the end of the bedroom there was a narrow room, which we opened up to a certain extent, but we wanted to leave a small, somewhat private room in which my client could have his desk and

bookcases. You now go through this to the bedroom, so it’s like an anteroom. It was important to introduce a laundry room for washing and storage, to carve out a decent second bedroom and shower room, to create a very good main bathroom with a shower, separate toilet, bidet, bath and everything else, and to create a walk-through dressing room.

I will admit we vacillated about the spare room – it’s almost always the husband who doesn’t want anyone to come to stay. Now there’s a very large exercise ball and a massage table in this exquisite spare room, but it is nevertheless very comfortable should anyone come to stay. The most important new detail in the drawing room was the marble fireplace, which goes with the 19th century architecture of the building. I felt the fireplace had to be appropriate for the ceiling, the plasterwork cornices and the French windows, but after that we could do what we felt like. My client wanted a piano so I bought him a Steinway for the drawing room, and I think when they settle into their new home they will ask young musicians to come and play.

To decorate this newly revealed space, I combined the neutrals and varied textures with contemporary furniture to achieve a 1930s feel. In the drawing room are quite modern sofas from Christian Liaigre. We had rugs specially made for the drawing room and the dining room; based on 1930s designs, they were woven in a trompe l’oeil effect in France. The rug in the dining room has toneon-tone musical instruments in the border, and the drawing-room rug is in the same style, but the border was designed using inspiration from the Braquenié archive.

Extracted from Nina Campbell Interiors, £30, Cico Books; cicobooks.co.uk. Please call 01256 302 699 quoting GLR 8TY to purchase a copy at the special price of £22 including free p&p.

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

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Wimbledon Park Golf Club Your ideal venue for any occasion

Wimbledon Park Golf Club is in an idyllic location overlooking Wimbledon Park Lake with beautiful views across the golf course and to the All England Lawn Tennis Club.

Conveniently close to Wimbledon town centre and the village and less than ten miles from Central London, the Club is an ideal venue for your party or special event.

• Superb Ground Floor Terrace Lounge • Fully Equipped Dining Room • Lakeview Restaurant • 5 minute walk from Wimbledon Park District Line Tube For information on prices and availability or to discuss what we can do to make your event a memorable occasion, please call the bookings office on 020 8946 1250 Wimbledon Park Golf Club | Home Park Road, Wimbledon Park SW19 7HR | 020 8946 1250

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ist ring Featu century art h t e 9 g 1 r y o b rd Ge y Edwa these prett , n o s r re Hende owels featu ed pir s tea t in ls flora r e anic t m o sum oyal B 7.99; R e h

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ALL B UZ Z E D OUT

British bees are dying out. To stop them disappearing altogether, visit helpsavebees.co.uk or buy some ‘Bee Lovely’ products from Neal’s Yard Remedies, who are donating £10,000 a year towards bee-friendly projects. 6 Northcote Road, SW11, 020 7223 7141; nealsyardremedies.com

G ROW YO U R OW N

Hailed as the ‘21st century foodie’s guide to growing your own edibles’, James Wong’s Homegrown Revolution teaches you how to grow absolutely everything, from saffron to cocktail kiwis, all in your own back garden. (£20, W&N). Available from Waterstones, 12 Wimbledon Bridge, SW19, 0843 290 8687; waterstones.com

Editor’ Pick s

The Insider ROBBIE HONEY GIVES HIS TOP TIP FOR THE MONTH he elegance of tulips in late spring are truly a delight to behold, and November is an opportunity to think back to what was glorious and ahead to the possibility of what could be. I recommend the black tulip ‘Queen of the Night’ – a striking and unusual addition to a garden. To plant tulip bulbs, prepare the ground by digging lots of compost into the soil. For

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STA M P YO U R MARK

Create your own unique garden labels with this cute ‘From The Garden Of’ stamp set – perfect for customising seed packets, gift tags and jar labels. £17.99; oakroomshop.co.uk

heavier clay soils, include some grit into the mix. The rule of thumb when planting bulbs is that they should be placed three times the depth of the bulb itself.

To grow them in pots, plant in suitable potting compost with ample crocks placed in the base of the pot for good drainage.

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

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Fish Bar

Feeling peckish on your way home?

Wimbledon Fish Bar is open late and is perfect to pick up a freshly cooked fish supper with all the trimmings.

Now FULLY LICENSED so book the secluded rear garden for a great party space for all the family.

11 Leopold Road, Wimbledon SW19 7BB

Tel: 020 8947 9555

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E D I B LE education

EDWINA LANGLEY GETS TO GRIPS WITH CRAB KILLING, SCALLOP SEARING AND SOME SERIOUSLY GOOD CHAMPAGNE AT CLAPHAM’S CACTUS KITCHENS

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“DONT WORRY,’CHRIS SAID, ‘BURNT BITS...ADD FLAVOUR.”

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rom childhood, I have always loved to cook. Rainy Saturday afternoons were spent in the kitchen, mixing a cloud of flour with sugar, butter and eggs, slopping it into a tin and roasting it in the oven before the results were showcased for all to see: a rotund charcoaled splodge to be ‘mmm-ed’ and ‘aahed’ over by long-suffering family members forced to eat it.

By my mid-teens, I had became a food programme aficionado and

over the years, have watched them develop from the comforting dulcet instruction of Delia Smith to the ‘F**k, this is good’ brashness of Gordon Ramsay. Yet one has always stood out as a favourite – BBC One’s Saturday Kitchen – so much so that I can’t remember the last time my weekend didn’t start with, ‘Good morning, it’s 10 o’clock, this is Saturday Kitchen Live...’

Imagine, therefore, my excitement when I heard that Clapham’s Cactus Kitchens – aka home of Cactus TV, the production company for Saturday Kitchen – had launched

a brand new cookery centre, offering a series of Michel Roux Jr. ‘Experiences’, and that I had been invited to attend one – ‘Cooking the Roux Way Experience: Shellfish and Champagne’.

Teaching us how to create such a decadent dining experience was Chef de Cuisine for Michel Roux Jnr.’s ‘The Landau’, Chris King – a kind, patient soul who guided us throughout the day, assisting where necessary, congratulating when not.

He started by reading out the menu that we were apparently going to create: Seared Scallops with Spiced Red Pepper Coulis and Shaved Fennell, Razor Clams with Chorizo and Seashore Vegetables, and Dressed Brown Crab with Romaine Salad. Impressed? I was, and I hadn’t even turned on the hob yet.

First up was a demonstration from Chris on to how to correctly (and humanely) kill a crab. Skewer in the eyes, small cut down, paralysation – after that, it was into boiling water to cook. Next he showed us how to make the red pepper coulis for the scallop dish; a process which involved lots of ‘cheffy’ words – ‘sweating’, ‘reducing’, ‘passing things through fine chinois’, or as I like to call it, ‘a cloth’.

Then it was our turn. Faced with a live crab first thing in the morning and being expected to slaughter it wasn’t exactly how I’d envisaged the day panning out. Indeed, as I stared at the semi-comatose creature, I had

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‘That’s a fiver you owe us,’ Chris had chuckled.

All of this killing, however, made me adamant to do a good job of it.

Post-crab boiling, I painstakingly began plucking every morsel of meat I could find out of its shell. 45 minutes later, I downed tools.

At around one o’clock we stopped for lunch, a light tomato and toasted ciabatta salad or ‘garden on a plate’.

Having spent all morning around food, I was frankly starving. But whilst it was utterly delicious and wonderfully light, I had to remember we had three more dishes to eat that afternoon and so after just one helping, I stoically lowered my fork…and tucked into a glass of red instead. It was difficult.

Shortly after, we were led back up to the kitchen to continue preparing our dishes. Having nearly lacerated my fingers shredding raw fennel with a mandolin earlier, I paid particular attention to how Chris expertly seared his scallops. Flash frying was key; not turning them too soon was as well – nor, obviously, too late. Somehow I muddled through and was rather impressed with how

mine turned out, not least when Chris said my presentation was (and this is a direct quote) ‘good’. It tasted good too, in fact, I shall say so myself, it tasted very good, perhaps even Gordon Ramsay’s ‘F-word’ good. I was seriously impressed – and that I got to guzzle it whilst sipping on Edouard Brun & Cie Cuvée Spéciale Champagne, believe it or not, made it taste even better.

However, all sense of blusterous pride vanished when I overdid it on the frying front in the next dish – the razor clam and chorizo showstopper.

‘It’s burnt!’ I wailed dramatically, prodding at a piece of black sausage and watching it shoot out from beneath my fork. ‘Don’t worry,’ Chris said peering over my plate, ‘burnt bits…add flavour.’

You see Chris, I knew that. I burnt it on purpose.

The beauty of that plate lay in its colours. The emerald green samphire and ruby spots of sizzling chorizo, scattered over barely cooked sliced razor clam and their shells, was a thing of wonder to behold – and a seafood lover’s dream to eat. Washed down with a glass of R. & H. Lamotte Premier Cru Champillon Champagne, it was even more delicious.

We ended the day heading down to the dining room to munch on our final dish: the ‘Here’s One I Prepared Earlier’ crab (the ones we actually had prepare earlier), served with more Champagne (Legras & Haas, Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru). Whilst I can’t pretend a lot of cooking went into it, it was definitely the dish du jour. Rich brown crabmeat, piled atop crusty sourdough toast is why man was made omnivorous, in my opinion.

And so I simply cannot speak more highly about my time at Cactus Kitchens. For an amateur cook, a wannabe TV chef or just a plain foodie, it delivers: on fun, education and most importantly, taste.

To book a place on one of the Cactus Kitchen experiences, visit cactuskitchens.co.uk

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Cardamom Club have just celebrated their first birthday!

And we would like to thank all of our customers for their loyalty and support.

Join us for mulled wine and mince pies throughout December to mark the occasion!

Monthly specials for the lighter bite and health conscious curry lover coming in October: Tandoori lemon & coriander chicken on the bone, lightly spiced mackerel, and something for those cold winter nights, Malaysian style rich beef curry.

Christmas canapĂŠ party menu available for all your events, impromptu or planned, small or large numbers.

18 TRINITY ROAD LONDON SW17 7RE arrangements We can also provide festive, fresh flowers and candle T: 020 8672 0088 for a truly stylish event. w w w. c a r d a m o n c l u b . c o . uk

Call us now to arrange a tasting!

18 TRINITY ROAD LONDON SW17 7RE

T: 020 8672 0088 w w w. c a r d a m o n c l u b . c o . u k hello@cardamomclub.co.uk

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SUPPERHERO

Quell your hunger and help humanity this month with local chef Adam Byatt.

The Trinity and Bistru Union chef will be holding an exclusive pop-up supperclub on 28th November with proceeds from the four-course meal going towards Action Against Hunger. To book tickets, visit lovefoodgivefood.org/superheroes

FOOD NOTES Editorc’ks Pi

PARTY PLANNING

With the festive party season just around the corner, it’s time to get LBD ready. To help, Diet Chef has come up with a Fabulous Festive Figure Plan to help you stay on track during the hectic Christmas period.

Delivering bespoke hampers to your door, the plan is packed with tasty, low-calorie meals to help you lose up to 8lbs in 4 weeks. dietchef.co.uk

CHARLIE GILKES

COCKTAIL of the month

At our 1980s club Maggie’s, we have a lot of fun creating colorful and kitsch cocktails that could have been made by Tom Cruise in the cult film Cocktail. This delicious rum based drink was created by manager, Boro Mate.

CLUB TROPICANA RUM PUNCH

30 ml Pampero Blanco White Rum 30 ml Ron Zacapa Rum 30 ml • 20ml Mandarin Napoleon • 70ml Pineapple Juice • 10ml Grenadine

HOT POTS

Thinking of cooking up a storm? We love the new Hard Anodised Aluminium collection designed by Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc exclusively for Debenhams. 315 Lavender Hill, SW11, 0844 561 6161; debenhams.com

READY, STEADY, COOK Perfect for novice chefs, Leiths: How to Cook details everything from to de-shelling shrimp to making a basic white sauce. (Quadille, £30).

Available from Clapham Books, 120 Clapham High Street, SW4, 020 7627 2797; claphambooks.com

METHOD Pour all ingredients in to a blender and add a small scoop of crushed ice. Blend for 3/4 seconds. Garnish with fresh pineapple and pineapple leaves.

Charlie owns and runs several venues in southwest London; inception-group.com

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Pop into one of our stores and find out which Comte is your favourite!

At Bayley & Sage having the right Comte is a must, and Marcel Petite Comte is arguable the finest. The Petite family have brought its own range of sensibilities to the craft for more five generations; in 1962 this journey reached new heights when Marcel Petite, a visionary in the world of cheese, discovered the abandoned military fort of St Antoine in the midst of the Haut-Doubs forest. Here the vault and stone galleries provide the perfect natural atmospheric conditions in which to ripen cheese.

We have worked closely with Marcel Petite to select a range of Comte at different stages of maturation, with each wheel carefully chosen to complement its time ripening. We have four Comte, with different levels of flavour, texture, and character. The range begin with the mild and creamy wheels of 12 month mature Comte St Antoine Meule we work our way through, Comte Symphonie 18 months, Plenitude 24 month, with the selection climaxing Plenitude 30 months, with its deep flavours and complex layers.

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PUB OF THE MONTH

THE COAT & BADGE PUTNEY

R E S TAU R A N T R E V I E W

VALLEBONA

CATHERINE HALES SAMPLES THE DELIGHTS OF ADAM BYATT’S WIMBLEDON POP-UP

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s my friend and I walked past what had to be the ninth warehouse so far, our unprepossessing surroundings caused me to double check my Google Maps. Artisan Sardinian food shop Vallebona’s unlikely location was explained as soon as we walked through the door – the warehouse space is only just big enough to house the multitude of goodies lining their shelves and covering every available surface. We had come for a dinner hosted by Adam Byatt, the chefowner of Trinity and Bistro Union in Clapham, and prepared exclusively using gourmet ingredients available to buy in the shop.

The atmosphere was that of a large dinner party due to the small number of guests (just twenty) chatting between courses at the three communal tables. The meal began with a selection of cured Sardinian meats to share and everyone was in there straight away, fingers fighting. All were delicious, and just salty enough to prompt a dishing out of wine.

The menu comprised of several small dishes, the first of which was mozzarella, sardine vinaigrette and smoked anchovies. The ball of mozzarella was enormous and a million miles away from the kind

that come suspended in a cloudy liquid in the supermarket. Although not generally a fan of strong tasting fish, the anchovies and sardines were flavoursome rather than overpowering, enlivening the mild cheese.

The second dish was a fricassee of fregola, salted courgettes, girolles and Poole prawns, followed by gnocchetti, crisp mullet and bottarga – you’ll notice a seafood theme, perhaps unsurprising considering Sardinia’s location. The mullet was wonderful with just a little crunch to it, but I found the bottarga slightly too strong.

This was followed simply by figs warmed up and drizzled in truffle honey; I would usually protest that figs need no accompaniment but the truffle honey added an earthy sweetness that justified its addition.

A selection of Sardinian cheeses and plenty more wine and my conclusion was this: although expertly prepared by Adam, the ingredients were the real stars of the show. Book a place at one of these dinners whilst they’re still a well-kept secret – they won’t be for long.

VALLEBONA Unit 14, 55-59 Weir Road, SW19; 020 8944 5665; vallebona.co.uk

LOOK Palm trees in the garden, cow statues on the roof, cheeky blackboard scribblings and quirkily eclectic interiors – The Coat and Badge is the epitome of ‘pub cool’.

VIBE The place to get the party started. But it’s not just about the drinking – there’s also regular live music, Spanish classes, poker lessons and themed food nights (like ‘Pie pick ‘n’ mix’) to keep you entertained.

FOOD A sophisticated take on pub grub: think roast pumpkin and pea gnocchi, duck and crispy bacon salad or chargrilled burgers in brioche buns. In the summer months, the BBQ’s are renowned for being the best in the southwest, while lunches are a hearty affair of soup and sandwich combos. A word of caution: portions are huge and if you do over-order, the food is so good that you won’t be able to stop yourself…

DRINK An impressive wine list as well as the usual real ales and bottled beers. Look out for the specials board, which changes depending on what’s on tap that day.

VERDICT Bring your friends and grab a table in the buzzy beer garden for the perfect start to your night. You won’t be disappointed.

FIND IT 8 Lacy Road, Putney, SW15, 020 8788 4900; Geronimo-inns.co.uk/coatandbadge

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FOOD & TRAVEL FOOD&TRAVEL ABSOLU TELY

THE HOTEL

Once described as the ‘Riviera of the Highlands’, this worldfamous French chateau-style hotel has been synonymous with golf for years, thanks to its three championship courses hosting countless competitions. Yet Gleneagles is about far more than just golf. Set within 850 acres of rolling Perthshire countryside, there’s country pursuits galore – think shooting, falconry, fishing – as well as an eponymous train station, an award-winning spa and a two Michelin-star restaurant. And for the kids? A spy school, bug hunting and junior off-road driving.

Bring the dog too – they even offer training classes.

GLENEAGLES HOTEL Perthshire

THE FOOD

There are four places to eat, catering to every whim: the Mediterranean-style ‘Deseo’ (great for little ones with its option of customising your own pizza), classic bar food in the ‘Dormy House’ or the award-winning ‘Strathearn’, known for its excellent breakfasts – think Marburry salmon from Dumfries, Loch Fyne kippers, stone-baked breads, three different choices of Ayrshire bacon and the obligatory haggis. However, the main attraction is the two-Michelin starred ‘Restaurant Andrew Farlie’. Serving a blend of Scottish and French cuisine, the signature smoked lobster with warm lime and herb butter is not to be missed.

THE BEDROOMS THE SPA

Featuring the ESPA Life programme, this is a place where every issue is tackled – depression, IBS, bad back, low confidence…

It’s all about taking a holistic approach here, combining treatments with personal training and nutritional advice to come up with a solution in seconds – we recommend the fantastic acupuncture with Ailsa. In addition, there’s a 20-metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi, outdoor hot pool, gym and aerobics studio so that you can work those muscles before a relaxing massage.

Fresh from a £1million revamp, there are 232 rooms, including 26 sumptuous suites.

The look is classic and comfortable, with original art deco features, Zoffany furniture and thick carpets with underfloor heating.

Asprey products pepper the massive, marble bathroom, which boasts an elegant claw foot bath. Choose a room in the 60-to-90 block series – spacious with excellent views.

THE DAMAGE

Doubles from £335, including breakfast.

0800 389 3737; gleneagles.com

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Tomb Raiders

S

ipping on a ‘Femme Fatale’ – Jackie Kennedy’s favourite mix of champagne, crème de fraise sauvage and Cognac – in the Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor in Siem Reap, it was hard to believe that just a few hours earlier we’d been mud-spattered and sticky, scrambling through the Cambodian jungle exploring the remote remains of the lost city of Mahendraparvata, still swathed in vegetation.

The hotel opened its doors in 1932 and has kept its French colonial charm with its wrought-iron lift, the black and white marble floors in the lobby, the polished wood floors in the rooms and the elegant Khmer furniture, and updated them with contemporary comforts.

SARAH GILBERT TAKES A JOURNEY THROUGH KHMER CULTURE IN CAMBODIA

Siem Reap is the starting point for exploring the dazzling temples of Angkor – the world’s largest complex of sacred temples and a Unesco World Heritage site – and our days were skilfully planned around early starts, visiting the more popular temples minus the crowds and heat.

Angkor Wat is the jewel in the crown.

Built in the 12th century, it’s believed to be the world’s largest religious building, with one kilometre of bas-reliefs that tell tales from Hindu mythology and the Khmer Empire. But it’s not the only masterpiece: the immense walled city of Angkor Thom is home to the stunning Bayon, its 54 towers each topped with colossal heads depicting four faces of Buddha. Ta Prohm’s crumbling temples are wrapped in the ruthless embrace of strangler figs, and the elaborate carvings of the diminutive Banteay Srei are unmissable.

One afternoon, renowned American photographer John McDermott, whose dramatic black and white prints of Angkor are for sale in his gallery at Raffles, took us behind the scenes at the atmospheric temple of Preah Khan, where we put his professional tips to good use as we watched the setting sun turn the temple walls to gold, with hardly another tourist in sight.

That evening, the apsaras – the dancers from the celestial Hindu court of Indra – stepped off the temple walls and came to life on the stage in Raffles’ garden, with their glittering costumes and graceful gestures. Khmer is the country’s original culture and can be traced back to the 9th century AD. But in the 1970s, the brutal regime of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, as well as killing millions of Cambodians, tried to obliterate all traces its artistic, culinary and musical heritage.

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A

Journey Through Khmer Culture starts from USD 3,187 (GBP 2,073) per person based on two people sharing the tour. This includes 5 nights’ accommodation in Landmark Rooms with Raffles Hotels & Resorts on a bed and breakfast basis; the legendary 24-hour Raffles Butler Service; all activity options and additional meals stated in the itinerary; entrance fees; English speaking local guide and transfers. A 5 Night Suite option (Balcony Suite in Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Personality Suite in Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor) would start from USD 4,230 (GBP 2,752). To book, visit raffles.com.

Thai Airways International (THAI) flies twice daily to Bangkok leading to over 70 countries across five continents. A return flight to Cambodia starts from £808 including taxes and fuel surcharges. THAI constantly has special promotions so check out the website for the latest deals. Further information: 0844 561 0911; thaiairways.co.uk

The frenetic capital Phnom Penh, may be changing at breakneck speed but The Raffles Hotel Le Royal, built in the 1920s, remains a lemongrass-scented haven of colonial sophistication, its lush gardens and swimming pool a peaceful oasis from the chaos of tuk-tuks, motorbikes and cars that choke the streets.

The hotel was once a safe haven for journalists during Pol Pot’s merciless regime. We visited Tuol Sleng, a former school that became the city’s main internment camp, where the cramped cells are still stained with blood. We talked with 72 year-old Bou Meng, one of the few remaining survivors. He was saved by his ability to paint and spent his days replicating a photograph of Pol Pot – his wife was not so lucky. Choeung Ek, 10 miles south of the city, is one of the notorious ‘Killing Fields’ where the Khmer Rouge butchered fellow Cambodians before throwing their bodies into large pits. At

its centre stands a 40 metre-high glass stupa, packed with skulls and bones as a testament to the horror.

After a gruesome reminder of the country’s darkest time, a visit to the charity PSE – Pour un Sourire d’Enfant – focussed on a brighter future. Here, we watched a heart-wrenching film about young children forced to forage on a city centre rubbish dump, before it was transformed into a school and training centre, giving even the most disadvantaged the chance of a better life. Indeed, some of the original children helped by PSE are now at university.

Since the demise of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodians have strived to reignite Khmer culture and Siem Reap is at the heart of the country’s burgeoning arts scene. Now chic boutiques and galleries stock the work of native and expat artists and designers, nurturing local talent and preserving traditional crafts: At Theam’s

House, Cambodian artist Lim Muy Theam updates traditional handicrafts with his neon-bright sculptures, while the Frenchowned Wa Gallery stocks funky homeware and jewellery from around the region. And a tuk-tuk ride from the centre, Artisans d’Angkor sells beautiful silk clothes, bags and soft furnishings made in its own onsite workshop.

Back at Raffles, the perfect antidote to a long, hot day pounding the pavements and exploring dusty temples was a trip to the spa for a relaxing massage and the traditional Khmer Herbal Body Wrap, which uses local ingredients, such as turmeric, galangal and lemongrass. Later, we indulged in a Khmer feast at the elegant Restaurant Le Grand, and raised a glass to a new chapter in Cambodia’s history.

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NOVEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

CATHLES ROAD, SW12 A well presented four bedroom terraced house located within close proximity of Clapham South. A south west facing garden and solid wooden floors are only a few of the fantastic features this property has to offer as well as a converted loft with further potential to extend. The property is set over three floors and offers four bedrooms, two bath/shower rooms (1 en suite) double reception room, kitchen/dining room & basement.

Guide Price £1,000,000 John D Wood & Co., Clapham 020 8673 2854  johndwood.co.uk

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GIRDWOOD ROAD, SW18 A semi-detached family house on this premier residential road. Approx. 2,302 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 4 double bedrooms, family bathroom (2 en suite), dressing room, shower room, sitting room, kitchen/dining/living room, boot room, utility room, cloakroom, 126 ft. garden, off-street parking.

Freehold Guide Price £1,550,000

MELROSE AVENUE, SW19 A beautiful family house offering exceptional accommodation. Approx. 2,729 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 en suite), double reception room, open-plan kitchen/dining/living room, detached studio, rear garden.

Freehold Guide Price £1,350,000

SOUTHFIELDS 020 8870 8811 southfields@johndwood.co.uk

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03/10/2013 03/10/2013 12:30 11:20

4 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms (1 en suite), double reception, kitchen/dining room, basement.

D

R GEN E FO

IONS AT R

A well presented terraced house located within close proximity of Clapham South. A south-west facing garden and solid wooden floors are only a few of the fantastic features this property has to offer as well as a converted loft with further potential to extend (STPP).

Approx. 1,550 sq ft. Energy Rating: D.

TRUSTE

CATHLES ROAD, SW12

141 Years of Property

18

72 - 2013

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ1,000,000

CLAPHAM 020 8673 2854 clapham@johndwood.co.uk

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03/10/2013 03/10/2013 12:30 11:20

MENDIP COURT, SW11

DOLPHIN HOUSE, SW18

A substantial apartment with fabulous river views in both directions.

Approx. 861 sq ft. Energy Rating: D.

A smartly presented 5th floor apartment in the Riverside West development, with fabulous views along the river. Energy Rating: C.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, terrace, parking, porter.

2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception, balcony, communal gardens, lift, 24 hr concierge, parking available by separate negotiation.

Leasehold Guide Price £550,000

Lease to 2996 Guide Price £550,000

GALESBURY ROAD, SW18

HARBUT ROAD, SW11

A beautifully presented split-level flat, full of character and charm, set over the upper floors of this Victorian house on this popular residential road.

Approx. 861 sq ft. Energy Rating: E.

Set just off St John’s Hill this is lovely ground floor garden flat that benefits from good proportions throughout. Approx. 624 sq ft.

2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen/dining room, cloakroom.

Bedroom, bathroom, reception room, eat-in kitchen, cellar, garden.

Lease to 2103 Guide Price £545,000

Energy Rating: D. Freehold Share Guide Price £425,000

WANDSWORTH 020 8871 3033 wandsworth@johndwood.co.uk

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ALBERT BRIDGE ROAD, SW11 An architecturally designed and wonderfully presented maisonette situated close to Battersea Park. Approx. 1,500 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, garden.

Share of Freehold Guide Price £1,850,000

HENNING STREET, SW11 An extremely well proportioned family house situated in the heart of “The Sisters” on this delightful tree-lined street. Approx. 1,727 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, garden.

Freehold Guide Price £1,450,000

VALIANT HOUSE, SW11 A well presented flat situated on the 1st floor of a popular gated development close to Battersea Square. Approx 737 sq ft . Energy Rating: D. Bedroom, bathroom, reception room.

Share of Freehold Guide Price £500,000

BATTERSEA 020 7293 0348 battersea@johndwood.co.uk

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03/10/2013 03/10/2013 12:31 11:20

Devereux Road

£2,350,000 Freehold

A superb end of terrace double fronted Victorian house measuring approximately 2,700 square feet with plenty of potential to extend further. This stunning property is presented in good decorative order with a tremendous sense of light and space. This attractive house boasts lateral living which is hard to find in period houses between the commons.

• Five bedrooms • Double reception room • Dining room • Study • Kitchen/breakfast room • Family bath/shower room • Master en suite bath/shower room • Second floor bathroom • South-West facing garden • Cellar

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

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Turret Grove

£2,250,000 Freehold

A stunning, very bright newly constructed contemporary house offering 3126 sq ft of some of the very best accommodation available and with an adjacent garage available by separate negotiation. Architecturally designed and built to the highest standard, this property features 4 storeys of wide, versatile living space, stylish bathrooms, bright rooms with tall ceilings and a landscaped garden over two levels.

• Six bed • Five Bath/Shower Rooms (Three En Suite) • Kitchen/ Family Room • Reception Room • Media/ Playroom • 50’ x 27’ South Facing garden • Adjacent garage available by separate negotiation

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

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Altenburg Gardens £1,675,000 Freehold

This outstanding five bedroom family house is positioned on this extremely sought after residential street. The property has been extended and completely refurbished to a very high standard by the current owners.

• Five Bedrooms • Double Reception room • Kitchen/ Breakfast room • Three Bathrooms (One En-Suite) • Garden • Downstairs cloakroom • Basement Utility room • Private Garden

Ballingdon Road £1,595,000 Freehold Positioned on one of the most sought after residential street between the commons is this superb natural four bedroom house with a spacious basement. The property has recently been extended into the side return but still has potential for further development into the loft space.

• Four double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/family room • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • Shower room • West-facing garden • Large cellar

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

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Canford Road £1,495,000 Freehold

This beautiful end of terrace period property has been completely refurbished by the current owners to an extremely high standard.

No expense has been spared and high quality fixtures and fittings are evident in every room. The house has been extended into the side return and the side passage on the ground floor as well as into the loft/rear addition on the top floor.

• Four double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/dining room • Ground floor w/c with separate utility area • Family bathroom • Second bath/shower • Landscaped patio garden • Cellar • Covered storage passage

Eland Road £1,475,000 Freehold Positioned on this particularly sought after residential street is this stunning four storey Victorian town house. The houses on this section of Eland Road are rare to come to the market and are highly regarded for their two levels of living space and excellent West-facing gardens.

• Three/four bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/family room • Play room • Utility room • Study • Ground floor w/c • Family bathroom • En suite bathroom • Balcony • 59’7’’ West-facing garden • Cellar storage

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

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Winsham grove £995 per week

Positioned on one of the most sought after residential streets between the commons is this beautiful Victorian family house.

The property has been extended on the ground floor and on the top floor to create four bedrooms and three bathrooms with an area in excess of 1,900 sq ft.

• Four double bedrooms • Four double bedrooms • Shower room • En suite bathroom • Family bathroom • Kitchen/breakfast room • Patio garden • Cellar for storage • Unfurnished

Chatto Road £950 per week This immaculate five bedroom family house has been extended on the ground floor into the side return and on the top floor into the loft space. The property has a good sense of light and space throughout with a neutral/tasteful theme.

• Five bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Family bathroom • Two bathrooms (one en suite) • Cellar • South facing garden • Unfurnished

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

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£900 per week Leathwaite Road

Kelmscott Road

• Double Reception Room • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Cellar • Garden • Five Double Bedrooms • Family Bathroom • Shower Room • En-suite Bathroom • Unfurnished • Available Now

Wandsworth Common North Side

• Double bedroom • Reception room • Kitchen • Bathroom • Furnished

£850 per week

• Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom • Three further bedrooms • Family bathroom • West facing garden • Unfurnished

£375 per week Spencer Park Court

£350 per week

• Kitchen • Bathroom • Reception Room • Double Bedroom • Smaller Second Bedroom • Parking Space Access to Communal Garden • Furnished • Available Beginning of November

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

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ABSOLUTELY Property

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS DUNCAN IRENS AND BEN RYMER Partners at Rymer Irens

Photography: Rebecca Noonan

DUNCAN IRENS

BEN RYMER

It all began over a very good lunch! Ben and I had been introduced through a mutual friend back in Spring of 2009 and whilst we had no intention of discussing business, over a glass of wine or two a picture of a new Estate Agency was sketched on the table cloth. Ben and I shook hands, paid the bill (the first of many to come) and agreed, come hell or high water, to give it a go. The catalyst was an opportunity to open a business on Bellevue Road, a patch well known to the both of us. Many thought we were mad for opening a new business in the depths of a global recession (we well may have been), but from those crazy early days we are now well into our fifth year, with a fresh brand, two offices going strong and many friends made along the way. Looking back, some of those early days were incredibly tough, the small loan we received to set-up the business did not allow us to pay ourselves anything and we were working incredibly long hours seven days a week just to keep afloat. After a short while we began to take on a handful of properties and all began to snowball from there; selling a rather impressive £3.5m home on Nightingale Lane early on certainly helped endorse what we were about. The key to our success is that Ben and I shared the same values from day one. There is no magic formula to what we do, but we honestly felt back at the beginning, as we still do today, that we could provide our clients with a higher level of service and ultimately achieve better returns for them. Having recently moved to the Magdalen Estate with my family, Wandsworth is now my home as well as my place of work and I absolutely love everything about it.

What’s in line for the future? Obviously every successful business wants to grow and whilst this applies to us also, we would never embark on something if we felt it would diminish the level of service we offer today – so natural evolution rather than reckless expansion is probably the best way to describe our plans going forward. Do I have any regrets – none, other than the loss of hair!

I always thought, weirdly, that I’d be a Stockbroker. I wrote to about seventy companies asking for a job – unsurprisingly, I did not receive a single reply! Still living at home at the time, I helped my mother sell our family house and did quite a lot of the liaising with our estate agent, who had just set up his own estate agency in Godalming. I really liked (and totally appreciated) what he did for us and so I asked him for advice about getting into the industry… a couple of months later, my first job as an Estate Agent began in Guildford in 1994. Having now worked in London for the past eighteen years, the last four and a bit years have, by far, been the most rewarding.

Setting up our business was ridiculously exciting but also rather daunting. It certainly helped knowing the area extremely well but starting from scratch was just a bit nerveracking! Those early days are still so memorable. We opened with a small loan to use for marketing, brochures, petrol, loo roll etc., but until we received our first commission cheque, we breathed in a lot, out rather less frequently. Now, though, with a second successful office on Nightingale Lane, the business is going from strength to strength and, most importantly, we are loving what we have achieved so far. Looking after our clients, collectively, is extremely rewarding and as we are the day-to-day faces of the company, we are fully involved in every single aspect of the business.

We are also passionate about our business and the pride I personally have in the industry has never ceased. My first employer told me ‘to treat every part of someone’s home with the utmost of respect as you see parts of their home which even their best friends have not seen’ – such great advice and something I remind myself of, and my colleagues, almost daily.

Bellevue Road Office: 020 8767 2222

Nightingale Lane Office: 020 8045 8989 rymer-irens.com

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Completely at home in London With 50 branches across the Capital and over 35 years’ London property experience, we are perfectly placed to help with all your property needs.

So, if you’re thinking of selling, letting, buying or renting, visit kfh.co.uk today.

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03/10/2013 12:06 10:40 02/05/2013

Sutherland Grove, Southfields, SW18 £1,550,000 Freehold Southfields 020 8871 9655 Email ssf@kfh.co.uk

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Enviably located in a prime location between Southfields, Wandsworth and Putney, this detached house offers spacious and well proportioned family accommodation.

• • • • • • • •

Five bedrooms Three bathrooms Through reception room Kitchen/diner Conservatory West facing garden Off street parking EPC rating D

03/10/2013 10:18 10:40 01/10/2013

Cadogan Road, Surbiton, KT6 £750,000 A stunning two bedroom detached house which has been refurbished to a high standard located on one of the popular river roads close to Surbiton station. The property is within easy reach of the river, bars, restaurants and amenities of Surbiton and Kingston town. Freehold. EPC rating D. Kingston 020 8939 8191 Email ski@kfh.co.uk

Capern Road, Earlsfield, SW18 £945,000 A beautifully presented house set over four floors offering 1,628 sq ft of stunning space, comprising three double bedrooms, fantastic extended kitchen and further accommodation on the lower ground floor. Located close to all amenities and Earlsfield station. Freehold.

EPC rating D. Earlsfield 020 8944 6464 Email sea@kfh.co.uk

Palmerston Road, Wimbledon, SW19 £550,000 Situated on a highly sought after street in the heart of Wimbledon, this fantastic house offers two double bedrooms, a modern kitchen, bright living accommodation with a lovely garden and further room to extend (subject to planning). Freehold. EPC rating E. Wimbledon 020 8944 4000 Email swm@kfh.co.uk

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03/10/2013 10:20 10:40 01/10/2013

Kingston Vale, Kingston, SW15 ÂŁ2,450 pcm A stunning three bedroom flat with modern fitted kitchen, two bathrooms, open plan kitchen/diner, private outdoor patio garden and allocated parking space. Located in the ever popular Kingston Vale area. Unfurnished.

EPC rating B. Kingston 020 8939 8181 Email lki@kfh.co.uk

Homefield Road, Wimbledon, SW19 ÂŁ1,850 pcm A well presented two bedroom conversion flat in the heart of Wimbledon Village. The property benefits from a family bathroom, en suite and a spacious reception room.

Furnished. EPC rating D. Wimbledon 020 8944 4040 Email lwm@kfh.co.uk

KFH_NOV.indd 5 Balham.indd 4 11.13 KFH Clapham

03/10/2013 10:20 10:40 01/10/2013

ABSOLUTELY Property

Absolutely SW19

Denise Wheatley � Project Manager at Ellisons 020 8944 7577; ellisons.uk.com

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT… My new favourite restaurant has to be ‘Sticks n Sushi’. The Scandinavian style building has a fashionable vibe, the food is mouth-watering and stylishly presented & the service friendly.

STYLISH BOUTIQUE… When I want to treat myself I head to Question Air ? in Wimbledon Village. They stock leading designers, and really have their finger on the pulse for what’s hot on the catwalk.

BEST KEPT SECRET… Abbeyfest, a free open air Jazz and Blues evening held every summer, at Merton Abbey Mills. The festival gives many aspiring and talented musicians the opportunity to showcase their music.

LOST HOUR… The beautifully maintained Grade II* listed English Heritage garden, Cannizaro Park, West Side Wimbledon Common. I would bring a small picnic, a bottle of wine and a good book.

FINEST COCKTAIL… An old fashioned champagne cocktail that I enjoy at Christmas time.

Place a sugar cube , soak in a small amount of Angostura Bitters, add 10ml Brandy, a twist of orange rind and fill to the top with Champagne.

AN EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTY… St Anne’s House, The Downs.

Originally a 19th Century Nun’s Convent, recently refurbished and transformed into a stunning and opulent seven bedroom mansion villa. £4,300,000.

Local estate agent aspire sponsors first Clapham Opera Festival

Is postcode everything?

Ed Mead �

Director, Douglas & Gordon 020 7225 1225; douglasandgordon.com

T

aking place for the first time in November, the Clapham Opera Festival is providing an entertaining and varied programme of opera style concerts under an overall theme of Love. Response has already been tremendous among local residents and families, according to local estate agents aspire who are the Festival’s main sponsors.

Targeted at those who may not have sampled opera before, the concerts will be showcasing different styles of opera from a variety of composers, such as Handel, Rossini and Offenbach, as well as the less well known Strozzi and Caccini and an abbreviated

version of Donizetti’s Don Pasquale. David Kirkup, director of aspire’s Clapham office comments: “We are delighted to be main sponsors of such an interesting programme and we are pleased it is already creating a lot of interest amongst local people. The events are designed to act as a taster for people to discover various forms of opera and maybe revisit them elsewhere or as recordings. We are very much hoping this will become a popular annual event in Clapham.”

For more information or to purchase tickets visit claphamoperafestival.wordpress.com. aspire.co.uk.

Six years ago if you lived South of the River you were always irritatingly considered to be not quite rich enough to live in Chelsea.

Ignore the fact that it’s untrue for those in the know and your view might well change. It seems the “doughnut” around the middle is the preferred area for even those foreigners who consider an SW3/10 postcode de rigeur.

First generation foreigners have pushed central prices so [too?] high that current arrivals are more than happy to discover the delights of Wandsworth and Clapham Commons, whilst paying, in some cases well over £1500 per sq ft, prices only to be dreamed about a few years ago. The same applies to lettings with savvy investors chasing the same doughnut and renters, both corporate and private, are now very happy to swap a trophy address for a more affordable green space nearby.

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24th October Event

Final Release of Copperlight Apartments

CGI from Copperlight towards King George’s Park**

Please join us on 24th October from 5:30pm to 9:00pm for the final release of The Filaments apartments at Copperlight – a new build residential tower of 15 floors offering fabulous views.

The last remaining homes are expected to complete in early 2014.

Come to view our stunning new show apartments on the 9th floor and enjoy a drink in the recently completed concierge.

CGI of Copperlight and Aurora Apartments 1**

CGI of Copperlight concierge**

1 beds starting from £365,000* 2 beds starting from £540,000* Please RSVP to attend the event by registering online or calling us:

thefilaments.co.uk 0845 077 9770 Homes, the Mount Anvil way

The Filaments Marketing Suite 6 Buckhold Road London SW18 4WW

*Prices correct at time of going to press. **These are indicative computer generated images of the development.

FILAMENTS_NOV.indd 2 J102634 Filaments Copperlight ad - Absolutely Mag 210x297.indd 1

04/10/2013 17:51 15:39 03/10/2013

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD Rozel Road, SW4 £875 pw Unfurnished

An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House A delightful family home, superbly presented throughout, with five bedrooms, two bathrooms and extensive living space downstairs with is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to a double reception room, eat-in kitchen and a lovely sunny garden with lawn, decking and attractive plants and shrubs. The property is include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and situated in this prime Clapham Old Town location, near to the variety of amenities, restaurants and bars that the area offers. You are also brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. well placed close to the wide open space of Clapham Common and a variety of local schools.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | over six acres of land Five bedroom period home | Two bathrooms | Double reception room | Beautifully presented | Prime Clapham Old Town location

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/clapham

See things differently.

020 7498 8600 clapham@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_NOV.indd 1

09/10/2013 17:20

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD Larkhall Rise, SW4 £2,000 pw

An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House A magnificent, five storey, Edwardian family home, rich in period features and offering over 4500 square foot of living space, with is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to a wonderful south facing, lawned garden. This is the ideal property for a family requiring exceptionally well proportioned living and include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and entertaining space. The property is set back from the road and within the Sibella conservation area, made up of predominantly fine family brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. houses.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | overbedroom six acres family of landhouse | Four bathrooms | Magnificent double reception room | Period features | South facing lawned garden | Off street parking Six

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/clapham

See things differently.

020 7498 8600 clapham@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_NOV.indd 2

09/10/2013 17:20

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD

Marmion Road, SW11 £975,000 Freehold SSTC

Stanley Grove,and SW8 OIEOmodern £799,995 SSTC An extraordinary individual country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House

An exceptional, four double bedroom, Victorian house in this desirable residential road off Clapham Common North Side. This wonderful is rarely broadly Palladian in style and is athree wide,storey single storey building with largeinwindows over looking the gardens.

It was extended 1978 tohas A available and handsome, located the desirable “Diamond Conservation” area.

Theinproperty family home is beautifully presented throughoutVictorian and hashouse been lovingly maintained by the current owners.

There is the potential to include a garden room and a large studio complex including aconsents, workshop and and dark room for . The property currently has veryLocated high ceilings and the potential to extend further, subject to the usual planning is offered sale with no onward chain. moments extend into the side return or loft subject to the usual planning consents. Located on a quiet road moments away from the amenities brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. away from the amenities on Queenstown Road and Battersea Road.green The beautiful greenofopen spaces of Battersea Park are located of Battersea Rise, Northcote Road and Clapham Junction.

ThePark beautiful open spaces Clapham Common are conveniently nearby and there is easy access north of the river into Chelsea’s fashionable Kings Road and Sloane Square. located at the end of the road.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum |

over sixVictorian acres of land Large House | Three double bedrooms | Double room | Desirable location | Desirable residential road | No onward chain Beautiful Victorian house | Immaculate presentation | Fourreception double bedrooms | Two bathrooms

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/battersea

See things differently.

020 7228 9265 battersea@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_NOV.indd Winkworth.BATT_APR.indd 2 3

09/10/2013 19:17 17:21 11/03/2013

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD

Marmion Road, SW11 £975,000 Freehold SSTC

An extraordinary individual modernSSTC country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House Garfield Road,and SW11 £799,950

An exceptional, four double bedroom, Victorian house in this desirable residential road off Clapham Common North Side. This wonderful is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to A fantastic opportunity to stamp yourthroughout mark on this spacious and flexible, five bedroom Victorian ideally on a desirable family home is beautifully presented and has been lovingly maintained by the currenthouse, owners.

Therelocated is the potential to include a garden room and a Common large studio complex including awithin workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and residential road off Clapham North Side.

Located easy reach of the wonderful array of amenities on Lavender Hill, extend into the side return or loft subject to the usual planning consents. Located on a quiet road moments away from the amenities brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space.

Clapham OldRise, Town, BatterseaRoad Riseand andClapham the Northcote Road.

The beautiful green open spaces Clapham Common are a short walk of Battersea Northcote Junction.

The beautiful green open spaces ofof Clapham Common are conveniently away asat are a| end number of road. excellent and| drawing state schools, subject to catchment, located the of the Four bedrooms four bathrooms | gardenprivate room | hall room | studio complex | dining roomeach | wineyear. cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum |

over six acres of house land | Five bedrooms | Excellent refurbishment opportunity | Two reception rooms | Popular residential road Large Victorian Beautiful Victorian house | Immaculate presentation | Four double bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Desirable residential road | No onward chain

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/battersea

See things differently.

020 7228 9265 battersea@winkworth.co.uk WINKWORTH_B&C_NOV.indd Winkworth.BATT_APR.indd 2 4

09/10/2013 19:17 17:21 11/03/2013

ABSOLUTELY Property

Spotlight on Earlsfield Maddie Miller

THROUGH THE KEYHOLE...

� Manager of Douglas & Gordon, Southfields & Earlsfield 020 8874 8822; douglasandgordon.com

ELBOROUGH STREET, SW18 £1,150,000 FREEHOLD

7 Newly refurbished to an exacting standard, this stylish four bedroom family home is located on the sought-after Southfields Grid. Having been completely re-wired and re-plumbed, the property is fully extended to provide a wonderful feeling of light and space with new double-glazed timber sash windows throughout.

7 Parking A rarity on the Southfields Grid, this house has off-street parking for two cars.

7

Master bedroom

This room boasts incredible ceiling height with bifolding doors onto a Juliet balcony, offering fantastic views of London on a clear day.

PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE

7

Kitchen/dining/family room

Extended to create a wonderful entertaining and family space, the attention to detail in the kitchen is excellent, boasting fully integrated Miele appliances including a heating drawer and induction hob set into the granite worktop.

Charles Weller � Director at Palace Gate Lettings 020 8879 6205; PalaceGateLettings.com

BEST SCHOOL

RAINY DAY

SPORTS & REC

FUN FOR FREE

Earlsfield has a number of good schools, Beatrix Potter and Allfarthing primary schools and Burntwood Secondary school, which has recently undergone a major refurbishment.

Halfway House and Leather Bottle provide board games along with the usual fare. There is also the popular Tara Arts Centre, Cineworld at Southside and The Wandsworth Museum.

Sports clubs including Battersea Ironsides Rugby, as well as Magdalen Park Lawn Tennis Club.

There is also Wimbledon Race Track where you can have a flutter on greyhound or banger racing.

The library has Baby Rhyme and Story Time sessions for children under five, as well as a One O’clock Centre. For adults, the local parks are good for relaxing or exercise.

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SPOTLIGHT ON earlsfield nov.indd 110

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A spectacular detached Edwardian family house in the heart of West Putney with front driveway and a magnificent landscaped 173ft west facing garden with an exceptionally private aspect.

Coalecroft Road £1,685,000

173ft x 54ft west facing garden • Off street parking Garage • Wide entrance hall • Two reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast room • Cloakroom/utility room Master bedroom suite includes • Dressing room and en-suite • Bathroom • Four further bedrooms

A highly attractive five bedroom family home situated in this historic and quiet residential street in Upper West Putney.

This appealing house is charmingly presented.

Erpingham Road £2,650,000

Five bedroom family home • Semi detached Prime upper west putney residential road Entrance hallway • Reception room • Dining room Kitchen/breakfast room • Utility room • Downstairs cloakroom • Study • Morning room

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

07/10/2013 17:08

Quill Lane

£925,000

Pentlow Street

£1,050,000

Freehold house • Victorian terraced cottage • Double reception room • Kitchen/dining room • Utility cupboard • Two double bedrooms • Bathroom • South facing patio garden • Garage/ store/office (also accessible from Charlwood Terrace)

Semi detached period property • Spacious reception room Dining room • Kitchen/breakfast room • 30ft west facing garden Potential to extend (subject to the nessecary consents) Master bedroom • Built in storage • Two further bedrooms Family bathroom

Clarendon Drive

Malbrook Road

£1,695,000

Semi-detached • 54ft garden • Extended kitchen breakfast room • Two further reception rooms • Large cellar • Five double bedrooms • Large family bathroom • En-suite bathroom • Eaves storage • Period features

£2,900,000

Entrance hallway • Reception room • Dining room • Kitchen Study • Utility room • Downstairs cloakroom • Master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and dressing room • Four further double bedrooms • Cloakroom • Shower room • Family bathroom Large west facing garden open to the south

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ WARREN_B&C_NOV.indd 3

07/10/2013 17:08

T: 020 8780 1100

Rotherwood Road

warrenputney.co.uk

£3,250 PCM

Balliol House

£2,350 PCM

Immaculate three bedroom period house • Drawing room Family room • Modern kitchen/dining room • Master bedroom Two further double bedrooms • Luxury bathroom • Guest wc Landscaped patio garden • Central location

Smart three bedroom apartment • Popular mansion development • Set in landscaped gardens • Spacious reception Fitted kitchen • Two double bedrooms • Smaller bedroom/study Smart bathroom with separate shower • Off street parking Porter service • 24 hour security • Well located

Copse Court

Lister Gate

£1,300 PCM

One bedroom flat • Recently redecorated throughout • New carpets • Double bedroom • Fitted wardrobes • Smart kitchen Bright reception • Bathroom • Off street parking • Convenient location • Flexible over furnishings

£1,300 PCM

Being redecorated throughout • One bedroom flat 2nd floor Wood floors • Bright reception room • Modern kitchen/breakfast room • Double bedroom • Smart bathroom • Off-street parking Central location

Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk WARREN_B&C_NOV.indd 4

07/10/2013 17:09

sullivanthomas.co.uk

KINGSLEY STREET SW11

£460P/W

Charming Victorian cottage on the very popular Shaftesbury Estate.

• 2 Double Bedrooms

• Eat In Kitchen

• Large Bright Reception

• Patio Garden

• Newly Refurbished

• Unfurnished

• 4 Double Bedrooms

• 2 Reception Rooms

• Kitchen/Breakfast Room

• Playroom

• 3 Bathrooms

• Off Street Parking

CHANCERY MEWS SW17

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

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121

£690 p/w

Excellent 4 double bedroom house refurbished to a high spec in this quiet mews off Beechcroft Road therefore close to Wandsworth Common.

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121

Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333 Lettings: 020 7751 8898 Fulham Parsons Green Sales: 020 7751 8899 Lettings: 020 7751 8898

SULLIVAN THOMAS_Nov.indd 1

08/10/2013 10:29

BALHAM PARK ROAD SW12

£3,500,000 F/H

This outstanding double fronted Victorian house has almost 4,400 sq ft of accommodation • 4396 Sq Ft and is situated perfectly in one of Wandsworth Common’s premium streets.

• 3 Reception Rooms

• 7 Double Bedrooms • 4 Bathrooms

• Kitchen/Family Room

• Roof Terrace

• Teenage/Games Room

• Large Garden

• Almost 3,000sq Ft

• 3 Bathrooms

• 4 Bedrooms

• 63’ Garden

GERALDINE ROAD SW18 £2,300,000 F/H At almost 3,000 sq ft, this beautifully redeveloped period family house offers a house built for entertaining and with its outstanding accommodation is in a superb location.

• 52’ Kitchen/Family Room • Amazingly Light • Double Reception Room Wandsworth Sales: 020 8767 7711

Wandsworth Common Sales: 020 8767 7711 Lettings: 020 8682 3121

SULLIVAN THOMAS_Nov.indd 2

• Newly Developed

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

08/10/2013 10:30

ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News Jacksons prove to be real sports to help African kids get in the game

UP YOUR Street

K

ids in Africa have been given the chance to get all sporty thanks to Jacksons. They have handed over £1,000 to fundraiser Simon Morgan to help provide sports equipment for children at the Tumaini Children’s Home, in Mombasa, Kenya.

Simon said: “It’s very generous of Jacksons to help in such a way and I’d like to thank them so much for backing the campaign. The looks of the children’s faces made all the hard work so worthwhile.” Jacksons Managing Director Tony McVeigh said the estate agents would continue to back charities that the company felt deserved support. He added: “We have always believed that if we can help in some small way then we will - and that was the case with Simon. We wish him well in his further endeavour to bring some happiness to children less fortunate than our own.” Philip Agius, Sales Manager at Jacksons, said “Simon does so much hard work of a charitable nature and it was the least we could do to help with some of the cost. We’re proud to help and thrilled that the children now have the chance to enjoy sports.” � jacksonsestateagents.com

Philip Bullman Director of Bullman Booth

Philip Bullman takes a trip to Sphere Studios

Brandreth Road, SW17 £1,000,000 Freehold A wonderful opportunity to acquire this rarely available five double bedroom double fronted semi detached home, located within the heart of the Heaver Estate. With scope to refurbish throughout, this property has been maintained in excellent condition and offers the scope to extend (STPP). Arranged over three floors, this property boasts well proportioned rooms, is light and airy, and being positioned on this quiet & popular residential road we feel this property would make an excellent family home. The couple who currently own the home have lived here for a total of 47 years. � Lauristons Balham 020 8772 9373; lauristons.com

In 1999, aged 24, Francesco Cameli moved to Battersea and set up what has become an iconic recording studio.

Sphere Studios is hidden away in a former laundry, the ordinary exterior gives no clue to the musical history made behind the closed doors. Franc has mixed it with “literally” the best in the business - Muse, Eric Clapton and Brian May, to name but a few. A walk down the hall to the main studio gives a clue to the success of this Battersea Studio, with gold and platinum discs adorning the walls. I asked what Franc has witnessed in the industry and he tells me that after the death of Freddie Mercury, Brian May was responsible for the transfer of the entire collection of

Queens music. At one point the whole of the collection was stacked up in the studio – “an insurance nightmare!”

Over the following months Franc had the unbelievable privilege of hearing all the takes, retakes and off-takes. So, what of the future of this building? In the sixties it was used as a laundry, then in 1979 it became a photographic studio until Franc came knocking at the door in 1999. America is now calling this talented engineer and owner of Sphere Studio, but there are exciting plans to breath a new lease of life into this iconic studio. Next time you are walking around Battersea Village keep your eyes open as you never know which Rock icon you might see.

� Bullman Booth 020 7924 1469; bullmanbooth.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Wayne Keenan Area Manager for London & Oxford, Andrews

Winter’s never been the traditional time to sell your home. Many see the New Year as the perfect time to sell but it’s not always wise to follow the crowd as you’ll find yourself in the middle of a selling frenzy, with your home competing against many others. With all the positives of the current buoyant market, demand is outstripping supply.

• Keep the temperature in your home above 18C so applicants can enjoy the warmth when they step in from the cold.

• Fallen dead leaves on your driveway and garden do nothing for that allimportant first impression –sweep or rake them into piles and scoop them into the compost bin.

• There’s every chance it’s going to be wet, snowy or icy when you’ve got people round, so get a good doormat for prospective buyers to wipe their feet on when they come in.

• Drying clothes over radiators or in front of the fire is a big no-no. It looks messy, can make the air feel damp and is uninviting.

• Try to resist putting your Christmas decorations up too early. As pretty as they are, they can really distract from what your property has to offer.

If you put your property on the market now, you may even find you’re having Christmas in your new home! � 020 8874 6686; andrewsonline.co.uk

Currell Culture Corner

Victoria Farrar � Director, Currell, Battersea

Oliver Whitehead Managing Director of Oportfolio

We at Oportfolio have recently been hearing a lot from clients who are considering applying for a joint mortgage. Whether they are married couples, civil partners or just friends, it has surprised us how little help is at hand for those who want to understand the facts of joint financial arrangements; without the complicated legal jargon. It might surprise you to learn that you don’t have to be married to get a joint mortgage. However, it is always a good idea to seek both legal and independent financial advice when considering such an arrangement. An expert might advise you to seek what is known as a ‘tenants in common’ agreement to protect the interests of both parties. Not a romantic or amiable subject to think about, but with the unhappy statistics against us, it is always a wise idea to prepare yourself; in case the worst should happen.

Le QuecumBar & Brasserie, 42-44 Battersea High Street Looking for an original way to spend your week nights? Le QuecumBar is a live music venue with jazz and gypsy guitar as its speciality. Truly unique, Le QuecumBar will give you an intimate experience of these special genres. Pop in on a Thursday for Residents Night and it is free before 8pm, and £5 after.

Northcote Road Antiques Market Tucked away on Northcote Road, this market is a treasure trove of furniture, china, art, glassware and much more.

The market is open seven days a week, including some bank holidays and is the perfect destination for interiors shopping.

Clapham Picture House A favourite of locals, the Clapham Picture House is a cosy art house cinema with an excellent selection of mainstream and art house films. A new menu now includes a larger wine list and bar food to enjoy before or after the film. It’s the perfect place to spend a cold autumn evening. � 020 3668 1000; currell.com

� 020 8877 1169; oportfolio.co.uk

THE BEST OF ABBEVILLE VILLAGE Annual price increase: 10% | Average house price: £778,587 (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 Abbeville Village.

WALDO CLOSE, SW4 £750,000 Freehold

Set in a fantastic development in Abbeville Village is this charming end of terrace, two bedroom modern town house benefiting from private parking and a private garden. � KFH, Clapham  020 8675 5436; kfh.co.uk

Charming Abbeville village has a rich French heritage which dates back to the 16th century when the Huguenots fled from France and settled here. The heart of the village is Abbeville Road, which offers an assortment of independent boutiques, high street names, organic cafes and a host of bars and restaurants.

Abbeville village is located a stone’s throw from Clapham Common which

Transport links: • Clapham South tube station (zone 2) • Clapham Common tube station (zone 2)

regularly plays host to year-round events and food festivals, while good transport links ensure this is a highly sought after area among families and young professionals alike.

Interesting Fact : Abbeville village was established 500 years ago in the 16th Century.

Main schools: • Bonneville Primary School • Glenbrook Primary School

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

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The spoils of the hardy workplace warrior.

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08/10/2013 10:44

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08/10/2013 05/08/2013 10:44 14:20

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

Fitzwilliam Road SW11 ÂŁ1,550,000 This superb four-storey Victorian house is located on a popular residential street in the heart of Clapham Old Town, offering generous living space and a wonderful 65ft garden. The property comprises a reception room with sash bay windows and a feature fireplace, a conservatory with garden views, modern kitchen and a separate sitting/dining room. The bedroom accommodation includes a stunning master bedroom suite and two further bedrooms (one en suite). Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents.

CLAPHAM: 020 7501 3666 sales.clp@marshandparsons.co.uk

M&P_BATT/CLAP_NOV.indd 2

07/10/2013 10:18

Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons

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

Olympic Mews SW18 ÂŁ1,495,000 This unique double fronted house has been restored to a extremely high specification throughout. Built in 1860, the property is arranged over four floors and is directly south facing which makes it exceedingly light throughout. The house boasts wonderful entertaining space, a beautifull terrace overlooking the 75ft south facing garden and four double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms.

Benefits include an underground parking space and a self-contained office/music room with WC. Freehold. EPC=B. Joint Sole Agent.

BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

M&P_BATT/CLAP_NOV.indd 3

07/10/2013 10:25

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

Mysore Road SW11 ÂŁ945,000 A unique one-bedroom corner house with wonderful period features. This 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 with a turret overlooking Clapham Common. Perfectly located between Clapham Junction and Clapham Common. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

M&P_BATT/CLAP_NOV.indd 4

07/10/2013 10:19

Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons

Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

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

LETTINGS

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

Cambridge Road SW11 ÂŁ1,550 per week A stunning family home located moments from Battersea Park. This beautiful property boasts a double reception room, an extended modern kitchen/dining area and a private garden. The lower ground floor benefits from a utility room complete with Miele appliances and extra storage space. Upstairs comprises a large master bedroom with feature fireplace, built-in wardrobes and a modern en suite bathroom, three further double bedrooms and two shower rooms. EPC=D BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 lets.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

Clarence Mews SW12 ÂŁ540 per week A stunning mews house in the heart of Clapham South. Presented in immaculate condition, the house offers a large reception room with wooden floors and concertina doors leading out to a beautiful lawned garden. The property further benefits from a contemporary kitchen with integrated appliances, a cloakroom, two double bedrooms and a family bathroom.

BALHAM: 020 8673 4377 lets.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

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020 8675 8308  www.ShortLetInLondon.com LONDON SHORT LET SOLUTIONS LTD.SUITE 5, WHITE HILL HOUSE 53-55 BALHAM HILL, LONDON SW12 9DR N0: 07436662

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Property

News

Can You Rent in London for Less Than 12 Months?

Julie Madison

Alex Oppenheim

� Owner of Short Let in London One of Short Let in London’s current properties

� Manager of John D Wood & Co. in Battersea.

Greatest growth in Greater London Prime Central London has seen record high property prices achieved over the course of the last year. Today, however, the greatest growth is in the surrounding areas, as people move from central London, trading a similar priced property for a much larger home. John D Wood & Co.’s latest indices show values year on year are up as much as 36% in Battersea and 28% in Wandsworth especially up to the £2,000,000 Stamp Duty Land Tax threshold. Whilst the development of Battersea Power Station has long been in

the pipeline, the sales launch and global publicity which surrounded it, coupled with the regeneration of Nine Elms, has put Battersea firmly on the map, not just with buyers from Kensington and Chelsea who require greater space, but also internationally. John D Wood & Co. is achieving multiple offers in excess of the guide price and sealed bids are also commonplace - both signs of a buoyant property market where the best properties attract competing offers. � 020 7228 0174; johndwood.co.uk

Sharon Byrne � Assistant Manager at John D Wood & Co. in Southfields

Southfields popularity grows in 2013

The Southfields property market is extremely active at the moment, both with people trading up in the area and others moving in from neighbouring boroughs seeking more space

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here are a variety of reasons behind requiring a shortlet contract, this can include people who have just moved into London and need a base whilst searching for a place to set-up home, to others who are in between houses and need to vacate their old home prior to completion.

Others need to do major renovations on their home, but don’t want to live in a building site. The story is the same with those poor souls who have a flood, a fire, major damp or a spot of subsidence.

When you are moving into a recently vacated property it can sometimes not be the ‘home from home’ that you dream of, a lot of properties are offered unfurnished, which can

and larger gardens. Prices have risen between 12-15% since January 2013 as lack of supply is driving would-be buyers to compete. We regularly have more applicants than available properties for sale, so those wanting to move are putting themselves into the best possible position. A noticeable trend is families wanting to trade up from a terraced house within

be a bug bear if just off the boat. In some properties that are offered ‘furnished’, you will be provided with a sofa, wardrobes and beds, which is a good start, but essentials such as crockery, cutlery, bed-linen and towels are missed out.

Here at the Short Let in London Company we specialise in these contracts. Tailor made for you; we can provide you with contracts as little length as a month.

We can guarantee that if you wish to move into a fully furnished, spotlessly clean home, with a garden and an easy commute we will be able to find it for you. Fingers crossed, it may even be available tomorrow! � 020 8675 8308; ShortLetInLondon.com

the Southfield’s ‘Grid’ (worth between £1 to £1.1million), to a semi-detached or detached house with off-street parking costing £1.2 – £1.4 million on streets such as Combemartin Road, Girdwood Road, Sutherland Road and Viewfield Road.

� 020 8870 8811; johndwood.co.uk

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London Lettings Chelsea & Riverside London Sales & Lettings Chelsea & Riverside DOUBLE DOUBLE Battersea agent DOUBLE Reach’s only onsite letting DOUBLE

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open in Battersea Battersea Reach!

Reach!

£1,500pw £1,500pw

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DOUBLE DOUBLE DOUBLE DOUBLE CLICK CLICK TO EDIT TO EDIT CLICK CLICK TO We EDIT TO EDIT have new properties coming on daily in Battersea Reach – many of which never reach the open market.

1 Beds £350 - 395 pw

If you are looking to buy or2 rent in Battersea Beds £450 - 575 pw Reach, please come and new to office or please contact uscome on: and If youvisit are our looking buyin orFlotilla rent inHouse Battersea Reach, please 3 Beds - 2000 pw visit our new office in£750 Flotilla House or call us on 020£2500 7585 0504 4 Beds - 3500 pw riverside@martinco.com www.martincoriverside.co.uk Get in contact with us todaywww.martincoriverside.co.uk to see what we have available, and to register your interest.

Tetcott Road, Road, Chelsea Chelsea Tetcott

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Sloane Gardens, Gardens, Chelsea Chelsea Sloane

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£1,650pw £1,650pw

020 7585ll 0504 l Large Reception Room Furnished l Room Contemporar y Apartment Contemporary ft ft ft£1,650pw Approx 1100 1100sqsq ftriverside@martinco.com 1500sqsq l 3 Bedrooms l Bedrooms £1,750pw Sloane Gardens, Chelseall Approx 1500

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£1,650pw

Large Large Reception Reception Room Room Approx Approx 1500 1500 sq sq ft ft

Unit A, Flotilla House, Juniper Drive, Battersea Reach, London SW180NA 1FX 1 Cremorne Rd Chelsea London SW10 020 7585 0504 t:t: 020 7351 0387 e:e:riverside@martinco.com chelsea@martinco.com www.martincoriverside.co.uk www.martincochelsea.co.uk

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Unit A, Flotilla House, Juniper Drive, Battersea Reach SW18 1FX 1 Cremorne Rd Chelsea London SW10 0NA t:020 7585 0504 e: riverside@martinco.com www.martincolondon.com t: 020 7351 0387 e: chelsea@martinco.com www.martincochelsea.co.uk

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featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Lavender Gardens, Clapham

ÂŁ750,000 An exceptional two double bedroom garden flat situated on the ground and lower ground floors of this wonderful Victorian property. EPC = E.

t: 020 7228 2278

Battersea

West Kensington

Barnes

Sheen

Kingston

Clapham

Fulham

Richmond

Twickenham

Chiswick

Putney

Chelsea

Kew

Teddington

Hammersmith

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Altenburg Gardens, Battersea

£900 pw Substantial four bedroom Victorian house with a wealth of period features located on the ever-popular tree lined Altenburg Gardens.

Available immediately. EPC = C.

t: 020 7228 2378

Eversleigh Road, Battersea

£550 pw This two bedroom Victorian terraced cottage has been remodelled to create a uniquely modern and stylish interior. Available from Early November. EPC = D.

t: 020 7228 2378

• £35.00 (including VAT) per person for referencing

TENANT FEES: • £180.00 (including VAT) per property for the tenancy agreement

It’s our area...

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Offices throughout London

Hydethorpe Road, SW12

£825,000

Weir Road, SW12

£485,000

A three bedroom Victorian terraced house, on the south facing side of this premier road in the highly desirable Hyde Farm area, with potential to extend into the loft and side return. Offered to the market with no onward chain. EPC = D .

A beautifully presented three bedroom purpose built maisonette, situated on the South facing side of this well regarded road in the Hyde Farm Estate. Offering approx 850ft of living space, with the potential to add further via a loft conversion. EPC = E.

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

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

Ballater Road, SW2

St Alphonsus Road, SW4

£550,000

£375,000

A stunning three bedroom period conversion, offering a wealth of period features and abundance of natural light. Situated on this well regarded road, the property is well located for the shops, night life and transport links of both Brixton and Clapham. EPC = E

A one bedroom ground floor flat, ideally located in this purpose built gated development, just moments from Clapham High Street.

Presented in excellent condition throughout, with the added bonus of allocated off street parking. EPC = C.

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

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

Santley Street, SW4

Offers in excess of £800,000

A beautiful four bedroom Victorian terrace house, located on a quiet residential street, between the amenities of both Brixton and Clapham.

The property boasts some lovely original features, modern kitchen and bathroom and has a stunning garden.EPC = E.

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

Luxurious Lettings

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his unique and impressive six bedroom family house is presented in immaculate condition on one of the most sought after roads in Wandsworth. The ground floor offers oak flooring and under floor heating throughout, two feature fireplaces and a beautiful kitchen. Folding glass doors lead on to an immaculate landscaped garden complete with water feature. The lower ground floor boasts a large double bedroom with separate contemporary shower room, as well as utility room and a beautiful play room which also includes a surround sound system. The two top floors consist of a master bedroom with en-suite, four double bedrooms, a large family bathroom and plenty of storage space.

This house is presented to the market in excellent condition throughout and has been refurbished to exacting standards.

Details

Wiseton Road, SW17 ÂŁ1,450 Per Week

Contact

Marsh & Parsons, Balham 020 8673 4377; marshandparsons.co.uk

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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

Abbeville Road, SW4

OIE £685,000

This highly sought after Abbeville Village property is presented to a high standard and has a fabulous reception room with high ceilings, wooden floors and ample space for entertaining. The recently refurbished kitchen opens on to the living area where there is a large dining area.

The two substantial double bedroom’s look out over the communal garden.

• Large open plan living space • Two double bedrooms • Communal gardens • High standard of finish • Excellent location • Share of Freehold

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

Henderson Road, SW18

£2,600,000

A traditional four bedroom family house on the highly desirable tree lined Henderson Road, forming part of the ever popular Toast Rack. The property is ideally located for Wandsworth Common and the restaurants and shop of Bellevue Village.

The property has planning permission for further extension.

• Four bedrooms • Large kitchen/dining room • Split level double reception • Basement with ample storage • Beautiful South facing garden • Fantastic transport links in and out of London

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

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Carminia Road, SW17

£569,950

A classic four bedroom, two bathroom family home on a quiet residential street in the heart of the sought-after Heaver Estate. Presented immaculately throughout, this charming house boasts plenty of period features which blend perfectly with some contemporary styling.

• Four bedrooms, two bathrooms • Plenty of period features • Heaver Estate • Private landscaped garden • Cellar • Close to Common, High Road and Tube

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

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

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OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON balham 020 8673 6111

battersea 020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

clapham south 020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

clapham north

020 8769 7900

Balham Grove, SW12

020 8772 7080

£795,000

Memory Lane

Clifford Harvey of aspire’s Balham office talks to a vendor about open plan entertaining and the calmness of the living room at her house in Balham Grove.

How long have you lived in the property?

Over 8 years. We bought it in May 2005.

What do you like most about living in Balham?

I love its mix of shops and restaurants; we are huge fans of weekend brunch and Trinity Stores has been a regular haunt of ours. It’s also so convenient for getting into town and beyond with the overland and underground stations.

Where did you draw inspiration from for

the design/interior of the property?

I love cooking and entertaining and the extension we did was done with this in mind. The open plan kitchen / sitting area is wonderful for having people round. The kitchen was also designed to be easy to use with plenty of cupboards and a large worktop area. There are glass sections in the roof and the doors open onto the garden which gives the room a light, spacious feeling to it which was also important to me.

Did you install any special features in the property?

Clever understairs storage and a Bose sound system.

Are there any further changes or developments you would have made had you stayed in the property?

I didn’t do a lot upstairs so that would probably have been my next focus. We had planning permission to go into the roof, so there is the defi nite potential to make it a

.co.uk

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three bedroom property.

What was your favourite room in the house?

It’s the front room. Before the extension it was the main living area and afterwards it felt a little unloved. We put alcove shelving in and new curtains. It also has period features like the fi replace. Overall, it has a calm, quiet feel to it which I love.

What will you miss the most when you move?

The house, garden and next door’s cat, who is a regular visitor!

What’s your favourite memory at your house?

Not sure I can pinpoint one. I think I will always remember it for the BBQs in the summer and of friends’ visits over the years.

For further information please contact Clifford Harvey at aspire’s Balham office on 0208 673 6111 or balham@aspire.co.uk.

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

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase A truly stunning semi detached house located just a few minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction railway station.

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his beautiful family home provides well proportioned accommodation and is arranged over four floors.

Combining period features with modern design, this stunning Victorian home is presented to an extremely high standard offering five bedrooms, four bathrooms and three reception rooms. Further accommodation comprises a bespoke fitted kitchen, utility room and a delightful 80’ west facing garden.

Details

Vardens Road, SW11 £2,850,000 Freehold

Contact

KFH, Battersea 020 7228 2666; kfh.co.uk

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lauristons

PROPERTY PICKS LAURISTONS HIGHLIGHT THEIR FINEST PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH

OCTOBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

WIN!

BLAZERS NET CLUB OF THE YEAR AWARD!

HALFKIDSTERM BOOTCAMP BOREDOM BUSTERS

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10/10/2013 09:35

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

ESTATE AGENCY FOUNDATION 50 MILE CYCLING CHALLENGE

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e are very pleased to report that the Lauristons team successfully completed their 50 mile cycling challenge raising over £1000 for London charities combating homelessness.

The team met in Wimbledon at 10 am on a Sunday morning; an achievement in itself! They set off for London making good time through Battersea Park, into Vauxhall and along Victoria Embankment taking them to the London Eye and passing London Bridge, the Shard before crossing over Tower Bridge. Heading West, they followed the river to Westminster and the Houses of Parliament, up to Buckingham Palace and through Hyde Park.

Picking up on the Thames

again they cycled along Chelsea Embankment and into Imperial Wharf, keeping to the Thames path from Putney Bridge to Hammersmith Bridge and over to Richmond Park for their first real off road stretch. They rejoined the Thames path all the way round to Kingston, before heading North and back towards Putney. With the end in sight, they set off office towards Wandsworth and picked up on West Hill to climb back up to Tibbets Corner again before dropping down into Wimbledon where the Queen Alexandra Pub waited for them.

HELP TO BUY UPDATE

http://uk.virginmoneygiving. com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/ showFundraiserProfilePage. action?userUrl=Lauristons

COMMUNITY NOTES

NIGEL BUDD

AFFORDABLE ART FAIR BATTERSEA 24-27 OCTOBER 2013

http://affordableartfair.com/ battersea/

OCTOBER HALF TERM BOREDOM BUSTERS

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ith everything for sale between £40 and £4,000, and a fresh and friendly approach to contemporary art, a day out at the fair is the easiest and most enjoyable way to view and buy art from more than 100 galleries under one roof.

Paintings, original artist-made prints, sculpture and photography are all on show, and whether you are looking for artwork that is traditional or contemporary, humorous or edgy, by a famous name or an undiscovered talent, there really is something for everyone!

Sales Director

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aunched this week by the Government, the 2nd phase of the Help To Buy scheme is designed to help people buy any home worth up to £600,000 with just a 5% deposit.

It will see the treasury underwrite up to 15% of a mortgage for loans where a buyer has only a small deposit.

Lenders who want to offer mortgages of up to 95% LTV but do not want to take on all of the risk will be able to buy a guarantee from the government for up to 15% of the loan.

This allows the lender to claim on the guarantee if the property is ever repossessed and sold at a loss.

This second phase was expected to launch in January 2014, but the government now says it will go live in the coming days.

It’s welcome news for first time buyers and anyone currently locked out of the market.

However; our experts believe it will provide a further boost to the whole of the property market- buyers and sellers alike.

So, to find out how this exciting development could help your next move, or for a free property appraisal, get in touch today.

For more information, please call us on 020 8946 9468 nigel.budd@lauristons.com

Up and About are an outdoor activity company who specialise in arranging adventures for both adults and children.

This half term, they will be providing 90 minute kids’ ‘Boot Camps’ at your choice of location which will include assault courses, team games, challenges, boot camp fitness to get them going and command tasks that will challenge the children and parents. The activities each require different skill-sets- communication, planning, physical aptitude and leadership, giving children with different talents and abilities the opportunity to shine.

By quoting ‘Lauristons’, you can receive a 10% discount on up and about’s usual rates www.upandabout.co / Chris on 07973 564 381

10/10/2013 14:56

Local. Trusted. Recommended.

SPORTS NEWS

THE SEASON KICKS OFF

BALHAM BLAZERS

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s we reported last month, Lauristons have agreed to partner with the biggest local youth league football club in South London, The Balham Blazers.

The 2013-2014 season has now started and Lauristons are pleased to be sponsoring the Under 8 Colts, a brand new age group at the Balham Blazers club this year, and one of two teams we are sponsoring. This is the first season the boys have played together, so it will be a very interesting to see how the team develops as they get to know each other.

They wasted no time on that journey in their first two matches

which they won convincingly.

Firstly they won 4-2 against Clapham Rangers with goals from Cameron Kerr, Henry Jefferson, Noah Antoniades and Preston Elwin-Travers, and then thrashed Bedhead Azzuri 13-3 with what their coach described as good attacking football no less. Goals came from Preston Travers-Elwin (5), Cameron Kerr (4), Henry Jefferson, Maxwell Emmery & Noah Antoniades. What a fantastic start to the season and we look forward to following your progress throughout the coming weeks. balhamblazers.org.uk/index.htm

CLUB OF THE YEAR

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WIMBLEDON WARRIORS RFC The Wimbledon B festival was a huge success for our U7 teams, resulting in a final score of 6:6. The boys were very enthusiastic from the start and their behaviour was impeccable throughout.

Both teams won every game in their pool and displayed excellent skills in the key areas – committed tagging, brilliant supportive play, dodging with some well-planned (and unplanned!) dummies and lots and lots of tries!

The semi-finals saw Warriors

1 and Warriors 2 playing Rosslyn Park 1 and Rosslyn Park 2 respectively. Two exciting and slightly tense matches resulted in another win for both Warriors 1 and Warriors 2.

The final couldn’t have played out better with our boys facing one another down. All supporters were impressed at how the boys cheered for each other and praised all Warriors for their efforts. wimbledonian-warriors.com

e would like to congratulate all the club personnel and coaching staff at the Balham Blazers for once again winning the London FA Charter Standard Club of the Year again in 2013 having won it previously in 2011.

The award was presented to BBFC General Manager, Greg Cruttwell, at the Awards Ceremony at Crystal Palace

FC on Thursday September 12th.

Congratulations and well deserved.

Lauristons sponsored U10 Colts are also gearing up for the new season having appeared for the photographers in their new strip ahead of the start of the season. As with the U8 Colts we wish them every success in their forthcoming campaign, as well hoping they have a lot of fun in the process.

U14 MATCH REPORT 29TH SEPTEMBER 2013 Old Wimbledonian Warriors 63 v London Scottish 0

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his was the U14s first match of the season and had been arranged at short notice as a stiff, early season test. This side had defeated us last season and it was with a mix of trepidation and confidence that our team took the field deprived by injury of a number of our regulars.

After 15 minutes, the Warriors were 24-0 up with tries from Antonio, Nick B, Nic M and Charlie and conversions from Nick B and Craig. Superior power upfront allied to smooth running rugby in the backs was proving to be too strong for a battling London Scottish side.

Further tries followed from Jack, Antonio (3), Kristian, Nick B and Craig, with conversions from Callum and Frenchy.

The match was played in a good spirit and we have been invited to London Scottish later in

the season for a rematch. For now, this eleven try victory has boosted confidence for even sterner tests to come.

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

PROPERTY ROUNDUP This months property highlights Cromer Villas Road, SW18

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charming two double bedroom apartment presented in excellent decorative order situated on the second floor of this attractive Victorian villa. The property has ample character with stunning period features including an attractive fireplace, ceiling cornice and lattice windows. Further benefits include an immaculately maintained communal garden to the front & rear of the building.

Offered to the market with no onward chain and vacant possession. EPC EER D

£520,000 Leasehold Putney Sales 020 8780 8780

Vitali Close, SW15

Brandreth Road, SW17

B

A

£2,250 Per Calendar Month

£1,000,000 Freehold

Putney Lettings 020 8780 8780

Balham Sales 020 8772 9373

eautifully finished Grade I listed house. The house boasts of two double bedrooms both benefitting from their own en-suite bathrooms and a further cloakroom suitable for guests. The property further consists of a spacious living and dining area with an open plan fully fitted kitchen, enclosed garden and two private parking spaces. Residents also benefit from the use of the communal grounds and the residents gymnasium. EPC EER C

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rarely available natural five double bedroom double fronted semi detached home, located within the heart of the Heaver Estate 0.3 miles from Balham BR station, Northern line tube Station and Tooting Bec Common. With scope to refurbish throughout this property has been maintained in excellent condition and offers the scope to extend (STPP). EPC EER F

10/10/2013 09:44

Local. Trusted. Recommended.

Wimbledon Hill Road, SW19

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superbly presented two bedroom lower ground floor conversion flat situated in a quiet and secluded location within 200 yards from Wimbledon Village High Street and within 0.1 of a mile from Wimbledon town centre, mainline station and District line tube. The accommodation comprises a long entrance hall, superb dual aspect reception room, modern fitted kitchen,

Palmerston Road, SW19

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beautiful three bedroom terrace house in the Ministers area, boasting stylish interior with high quality fittings throughout.

The property comprises of a master bedroom with ensuite, two further double bedrooms, a bright and spacious double reception room, modern fitted kitchen and an immaculate rear garden. EPC EER D

£2,295 Per Calendar Month

Wimbledon Lettings 020 8405 5340

two bedrooms, contemporary bathroom suite and private off street parking for one vehicle. Offered to the market with a share of the freehold.

EPC EER D

Share of Freehold

£479,950

Wimbledon Sales 020 8946 9468

Queenstown Road, SW8

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well presented two double bedroom ground floor garden flat located within 0.1 miles from Queenstown Road BR station and 0.3 miles from the delightful open spaces of Battersea Park. Boasting a share of freehold, this light and airy apartment enjoys the benefit of two bathrooms and direct access from the living room onto a private courtyard rear garden. EPC EER C

£459,950 Share of Freehold Battersea Sales 020 7978 5800

Thornton Place, SW4

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his bright and spacious two bedroom three bath apartment offers well presented living and entertaining accommodation in a superb location along Clapham Common. The property comprises a lovely reception room with wonderful park views, modern kitchen with integrated appliances, two well proportioned double bedrooms both with two ensuite and a further contemporary family bathroom.

This delightful apartment is ideally located for an extensive range of shops and amenities. EPC EER B

£2,816 Per Calendar Month Battersea Lettings 020 7978 5800

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“Proving that BIG isn’t always better...”

www.chamberlandres.co.uk | 020 8704 1313

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Chartfield Avenue, Putney

£1,750pcm

“

ored my faith in estate Chamberland has rest about four times within ved mo e hav I nts. age stress years, with the added London in the last ten e tenants as well as a hom ers/ buy nd fi to ing of hav d Nicole after some che roa app We . self for my team d her. Everyone in her friends recommende ble, knowledgeable and cha roa app , able son was per with h the stress associated very sympathetic wit cess we felt treated pro the ut gho rou Th the move. als competent profession as individuals by very they do. at wh like to m see who actually ~ Mr M. Torres

“

lettings@chamberlandres.co.uk | sales@chamberlandres.co.uk 212 Upper Richmond Road, London, SW15 6TD Chamberland_NOV.indd 3

08/10/2013 10:14

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04/10/2013 10:48

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

PEDDER.indd 3

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Southfields Sales 020 8789 0408 Call us 8am - 10 pm everyday

Delightful Family Home £565,000 King Charles Walk, SW19

Ref: 5118

This great family home comprises of three double bedrooms, utility room, downstairs shower room and storage facility, modern well equipped kitchen, lounge with balcony, upstairs family bathroom with further balcony to master bedroom. South East facing garden and residents parking.

A short walk will take you down to Southfields Village which offers an array of shops and delis and fantastic transport links.

• Cul De Sac • 3 Double Bedrooms • Utility Room

• Downstairs Shower Room • Under Floor Heating • South East Facing Garden

• Residents Parking • Close To Tube EPC = C

haart of SOUTHFIELDS

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For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

10/10/2013 10:42

Earlsfield Sales 020 8871 4366 Call us 8am - 10 pm everyday

Similar properties wanted £550,000 Freehold Ravensbury Road, SW18 Ref: 4016 SALE AGREED AFTER OPEN HOUSE EVENT IN EXCESS OF ASKING PRICE. Situated in one of Earlsfield’s most popular roads, this fantastic family home comprises entrance hallway, light and spacious reception room with bay window and fireplace and a large kitchen/breakfast room perfect for entertaining which then opens onto a lovely private garden, one of the many selling points for the current owners. There are two double bedrooms on the first floor and a modern family bathroom, whilst the large landing offers space to create an ideal office area.

Earlsfield station is close by.

• Period House • Two Double Bedrooms • Spacious Kitchen/Diner • Beautiful Private Garden • Popular Road • Close To Schools EPC = C

Garden Maisonette £420,000 Leasehold Bodmin Street, SW18 Ref: 3948 Accommodation comprises entrance hallway, spacious reception room with fireplace and sash windows, large double bedroom with built in wardrobes, spacious kitchen/breakfast room, bathroom and separate w.c. There is also direct access to a private garden and the property has its own private entrance.

Situated opposite King George’s Park for those summer strolls and easy access to Southside shopping centre, the property is also well positioned for access to Earlsfield Mainline station.

• Period Maisonette • Double Bedroom • Spacious Reception • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Private Garden • Own Private Entrance

EPC = 0

haart of EARLSFIELD

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For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

09/10/2013 17:10

Wimbledon Sales 020 8947 9141 Call us 8am - 10 pm everyday

Semi-Detached Period House £945,000 Graham Road, SW19 Ref: 5195 This fabulous four double bedroom family home offers two reception rooms, kitchen/dining room (with potential to extend subject to planning permission), bathroom and separate WC and is laid out over three floors with a rear garden of approximately 72 ft. The property is located minutes from Wimbledon Station,Town Centre and excellent local schools.

• Central Location • Period House • Four Double Bedrooms • Two Receptions • Potential To Extend (STPP) • Large Rear Garden

EPC = F

Sold Similar Houses Wanted £499,950 Mill Road, SW19 Ref: 5160 Character features and tasteful modernisation define this mid terrace period house in Mill Road. With open plan living space on the ground floor comprising family reception, separate dining and modern kitchen great for entertaining and the added benefit of a shower room with WC. On the first floor there are two double bedrooms and a family bathroom and continuing up into the loft a larger double room.

There is an attractive west facing garden.

Located with easy access to transport and excellent local amenities and schools.

• Period House • West Facing Garden • Two Bathrooms • Northern Line Tube • Very Well Presented • Great Family Home EPC = D

haart of WIMBLEDON

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For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

07/10/2013 17:11

Battersea Sales 020 7228 8895 Clapham Sales 020 7622 6686 Call us 8am - 10 pm everyday

Candlemakers Apartments £750,000 Leasehold York Road, Battersea, SW11 Ref: 3647 We are fortunate to have another amazing flat on the famous Candlemakers Development. Just a short stroll to the river where you can enjoy a leisurely walk. Also close to Battersea Square with its individual café’s and restaurants.

• Two Large Bedrooms • Open Plan Kitchen • Private Roof Terrace • 2 Bathrooms • Secure Allocated Parking • Great Location • Close Commuter Links

EPC = C

Lavender Hill Guide Price £375,000 - £400,000 Battersea, London, SW11 Ref: 3648 Enjoy living in heart of vibrant Lavender Hill. Bars restaurants and shops are on your doorstep.

Excellent transport links from Clapham Junction Rail station.

• Excellent Location • Two Double Bedrooms • Second Floor • Large Living Room • High Ceilings • Clapham Common Minutes Away • Period Property • Great Transport Links

EPC = D

haart of BATTERSEA AND CLAPHAM

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For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

10/10/2013 14:11

Balham Sales 020 8675 6848 Call us 8am - 10 pm everyday

Looks Like Home £895,000 Margaret Rutherford Place, Hydefarm Estate, SW12 Ref: 3776 A fantastic double fronted four/five bedroom end of terrace mews house set on three floors in a private gated development close by to Henry Cavendish school. This stunning property has a large reception room, a fully fitted kitchen, study and cloakroom, Master bedroom & ensuite, three further bedrooms, family bathroom, front garden and off street parking.

• Gated Development • Double Fronted • Cloakroom / Study • Master bedroom En-Suite • Hydefarm Estate

EPC = D

Pick Of The Week £375 per week Victoria House, Bedford Hill, SW12 An exceptionally well finished two bedroom split level modern apartment situated in the highly desirable Bedford Hill area. This property benefits from two double bedrooms, large open plan kitchen, modern fixtures and fittings, split level layout and wooden floors. The property is only a moments walk to Balham tube station and is offered unfurnished.

•Close to Transport •Two Double bedrooms •High specification finish •Split level

EPC = C

haart of BALHAM

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For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

10/10/2013 15:05

Dulwich 020 8299 3728 Call us 8am - 10 pm everyday

Substantial Family Home £1,200,000 Therapia Road, SE22 Ref : 7986 A substantial six bedroom double fronted Victorian house in an excellent residential location. The house has two grand separate living rooms and six bedrooms laid out over five hall/landings. An outstanding and exceptional property.

• Victorian House • Double Fronted • Six Bedrooms • 2 Reception Rooms • Very Large House • Space for Second Bathroom

EPC = D

Fantastic Apartment £500,000 Manor Mount, SE23 Ref: 7863 A truly stunning and extremely rare to market four bedroom Victorian property, situated on the first floor of this very handsome building in the heart of Forest Hill, this amazing property comes to the market chain free. A real must view.

• Four Bedrooms • Period Features • Share of Garden • Chain Free • High Ceilings • Good Transport Links

EPC = D

haart of DULWICH

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For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

09/10/2013 17:04

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Luxury Apartment Asking Price £625,000 Brixton Hill, SW2 Ref: 7770 A fantastic two double bedroom period apartment of over 1200 sq ft includes a further study/single bedroom. Barbecues & summer parties will go off with a bang with the stunning finish found in the low maintenance garden accessed from either bedroom. The master bedroom is serviced by a luxury en-suite shower room & the family bathroom ensures no queues in the morning. Transport will be a breeze with the many options including a myriad of buses on Brixton Hill and the Victoria Line Tube.

• Period Conversion • Two Double Bedrooms • Fantastic Location • Private Front & Rear Garden • Integral Neff Appliances

EPC = D

Fantastic Find Asking Price: £475,000 Medora Road,SW2 Ref: 7324 This gem will not fail to impress the most demanding of buyers with its’ significant presence set across the entire ground floor of this handsome double fronted Victorian house. Over 80 sq metres of living space provides a sanctuary of versatile contemporary accommodation all nestled in a residential pocket in Brixton. Peace & calm are found yet all only a mile from the Victoria Line Tube. Offered to the market with a Share of the Freehold this delightful conversion epitomises style & chic in a fantastic location.

•Ground Floor •Two Bedrooms •Bathroom & Shower Room •Private Garden •Chain Free

EPC = D

haart of BRIXTON

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Brixton 020 7274 2878

Call us 8am - 10pm everyday

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Stunning Apartment Guide Price £430,000 £450,000 Gresham Road, SW9 Ref: 7654 With light beaming into the spacious reception even the worst of days will look good in this flat. With the additional benefit that this property is offered in immaculate condition a new owner could move in and only need to unpack their suitcases to start enjoying this property. Also being sold with a share of freehold, you will be able to decide how to maintain this property to your own standards.

• Period Conversion • Top Floor Flat • Split Level • Open Plan Kitchen • Centrally Located

EPC = D

Impressive House Asking Price £630,000 Elm Park, SW2 Ref: 7415 This delightful early Victorian house exudes charm and character while incorporating a modern and chic feel throughout. This is emphasised in the modern and luxurious feeling kitchen leading out onto the perfect courtyard garden beckoning the keenest of budding chefs. A wonderful through reception provides a versatile and homely living space whilst the first floor houses an ‘oversized’ luxury four piece bathroom suite which is the epitome of the exceptional elements of the property. Located with easy access to transport links and Central Brixton.

• Stunning House • Two Double Bedrooms • Through Reception • Luxury Kitchen • Sought After Location EPC = D

For more properties in your area visit haart.co.uk

NEWHAART_BRIXTON_NOV.indd 2

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Showcase

Westover Road, SW18 ď ź ÂŁ1,150 Per Week

L

ocated on this prestigious tree-lined street is a spacious end of terrace five bedroom Victorian house that is well presented and has excellent family living space.

The property benefits from a double reception room, study, kitchen/family/ dining room and separate utility room on the ground floor. Over two further floors are five double bedrooms and

three bathrooms. The garden is much larger than others on the road and has the benefit of off street parking and cellar.

Contact John D Wood & Co., Wandsworth 020 8871 3033; johndwood.co.uk

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Life is more enjoyable

without having to worry about your finances Oportfolio is a ‘one-stop-shop’

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For independent advice, call us on

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Oportfolio Ltd is an Appointed Representative of First Complete Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

email us: enquiries@oportfolio.co.uk or visit us at www.oportfolio.co.uk.

OPORTFOLIO.indd 2

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

personal mortgage advice

31/07/2013 14:36

increase in viewings1

Sales

in tenants looking for a property1

Balham: 020 8675 2244 Battersea: 020 7326 8171 Putney: 020 8780 2233 Southfields: 020 8874 6686 Streatham: 020 8769 7722

viewings to get an offer 1

Lettings Balham: 020 8675 5060 Battersea: 020 7326 8173 Putney: 020 8780 2667 Earlsfield: 020 8944 9020 Streatham: 020 8769 4477

*Varies by branch. 1 Andrews internal figures for April-June 2013 vs the same period in 2012.

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03/10/2013 15:19

SUPER

SUNDAYS V ALUATIONS & VIEWINGS

V ALUATIONS & VIE WINGS

Valuations and viewings now available on Sundays*

Convenient late night valuations and viewings until 8pm*

2

Your questions answered LIVE on Twitter, Wednesdays 12-2pm. #propertyhour

Book viewings and valuations online at: andrewsonline.co.uk

To book your FREE valuation or a viewing contact us today 2

Visit andrewsonline.co.uk

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ANDREWS_NOV.indd 3

Free valuation does not apply to valuations conducted for insurance or mortgage purposes.

03/10/2013 15:19

ABSOLUTELY Property

New to the market � Hydethorpe Road, SW12£825,000 Freehold

Vendor Advice Best and Final

T

he “sealed bids” (or best and final bids) process has reared its (ugly?) head again with increasing regularity of late. Back in the “mid-noughties” its frequency was overwhelming - and with prices climbing at staggering rates, there was little for buyers to fear in bidding over asking price. But does that always happen?

Many agents have slipped into a dangerous habit of trying to engineer a sealed bid for their clients from the off. Underprice your home “around the commons” and of course you’ll get the desired stampede through your door on the first weekend’s viewings and the inevitable bids following close behind.

Your agent might be pleased that the job is done and dusted quickly. But is your bank balance better than if you’d chosen a conventional pricing strategy?

Not necessarily. In fact dig a little deeper into some agents’ claims and you’ll see that many sealed bids actually take place beneath asking price and are simply a means of picking a winner quickly. Why the hurry?

Close your viewing process too early and you might just miss the ideal buyers who would have paid more. Many of the record prices we’ve obtained this year were achieved using a less hurried approach, drawing on our extensive experience to get the best results.

They say patience is a virtue. Possess it if you can...

Austin Thorogood �

Director of John Thorogood 020 7228 7474; john-thorogood.co.uk

7 A beautiful Victorian terraced house, on the south facing side of this premier road in the highly desirable Hyde Farm area. As well as offering a wealth of period features and charm, there is also the potential to extend further into the loft and side return. The property is situated just moments from Tooting Common and popular local state schools.

Contact

Bushells, Clapham 020 7627 8084; bushells.com

� Ravenslea Road, SW12 Guide Price £1,350,000

7 This extended and tastefully presented Victorian family home is located on the edge of the Nightingale Triangle and enjoys a delightful aspect as well as being within close proximity of Wandsworth Common. Accommodation is arranged over three floors (excluding basement) measuring approximately 2200 sq ft. and features a private south west facing garden.

Contact

John D Wood & Co., Wandsworth 020 8871 3033; johndwood.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Lowdown for landlords � Balham Park Road, SW12Price on Application

Lettings Advice Property Management

T 7This outstanding double fronted seven double bedroom Victorian house has almost 4,400 sq ft of accommodation and is situated perfectly in one of Wandsworth Common’s premium streets. With the majority of the accommodation at ground level or above, the house is swathed in natural light and the ceiling heights are superb throughout.

Contact

Sullivan Thomas, Wandsworth 020 8767 7711; sullivanthomas.co.uk

� St. Francis Place, SW12 £800 Per Week

7A stunning four bedroom new build house located within a gated development in Clapham South. The bright and spacious accommodation provides a perfect space for both families and professional sharers to reside. There is a paved and decked garden with a lawned area to the rear, a modern fitted kitchen and a large living room.

Contact

Jacksons, Balham 020 8675 6565; jacksonsestateagents.com

he buy to let market is booming and in the past two years we’ve seen the number of buy to let landlords increase by 180%. For many, it’s the first time they’ve purchased an investment property and we find that many first time landlords are unaware of the legalities surrounding a rental property.

It’s therefore always advisable to take professional guidance when renting out your property, as things such as protecting deposits, annual gas safety checks, evictions and fire safety can all be a legal minefield. In fact according to the Residential Landlords Association, there are currently over 100 rules and regulations governing letting a property in the private rented sector, so making sure you’re on top of them all can be a full time job. Many agents offer different levels of service ranging from the basic ‘find me a tenant’ service up to a full management service, where the agent handles everything on your behalf throughout the term, so there are usually a range of options to suit many budgets and of course, any fees are tax deductible. Finally, with the level of business that professional managing agents are able to provide to tradesmen, our landlords often find that the charges made for typical maintenance and repair work are more competitive than if a landlord was dealing direct, and they have the knowledge that suppliers are reputable and trusted.

James Thornett �

Regional Lettings Director at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward 020 8739 2000; kfh.co.uk

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p r e m i e r

showcasing the finest

Outstanding home

Stunning finish

p r e m i e r

Drakefield Road, SW17 A substantial Victorian house situated within a prime road forming part of the Heaver Estate. To the ground floor there are elegantly proportioned reception spaces including a custom hand built kitchen and a mature garden. The lower ground floor houses a utility room and a temperature controlled wine cellar. To the first and second floors are the six bedrooms and three bathrooms. ÂŁ2,000,000 Freehold

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

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www.jacksonsestateagents.com

Balham 020 8675 6565 Battersea 020 7924 2255 Clapham 020 8875 7995 Dulwich 020 8875 7999

Family home

Earlsfield 020 8971 7070 Putney Open 2013 Streatham 020 8677 9900 Tooting 020 8767 0522

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899 Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077 Wimbledon 020 3195 9111

p r e m i e r

Sympathetically extended

Calbourne Road, SW12 A beautifully presented terraced Victorian family house which has been extensively and sympathetically updated and extended. The ground floor accommodation is both flexible and spacious with a full width kitchen opening into the south facing garden. Over the first and second floors there are four double bedrooms served by two contemporary bathrooms/ shower rooms. ÂŁ1,295,000 Freehold

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

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p r e m i e r

showcasing the finest

Handsome house

Fantastic kitchen

p r e m i e r

Cambray Road, SW12 A stunning family home located in Balham’s popular Hyde Farm Estate. On the ground floor there is a spacious double reception room, an extended kitchen diner with stylish high gloss units and a private garden with a decked seating area. The first floor comprises three bedrooms and a bathroom and to the top floor there are two further bedrooms one with an en-suite shower room. £975,000 Freehold

Balham 020 8675 6565

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www.jacksonsestateagents.com

Balham 020 8675 6565 Battersea 020 7924 2255 Clapham 020 8875 7995 Dulwich 020 8875 7999

Superb location

Earlsfield 020 8971 7070 Putney Open 2013 Streatham 020 8677 9900 Tooting 020 8767 0522

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899 Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077 Wimbledon 020 3195 9111

p r e m i e r

Exceptionally refurbished

Harberson Road, SW12 This beautiful house has been refurbished to an exceptional standard and retains an abundance of original features. The ground floor accommodation comprises a double reception room, a guest cloakroom and to the rear, a stylish kitchen diner. Bi-folding doors lead out to the landscaped south facing private garden. The first floor offers three bedrooms and a contemporary bathroom. ÂŁ975,000 Freehold

Balham 020 8675 6565

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CurrellResidential

£395 per week North Side Wandsworth Common, SW18 • Two double bedrooms • Secure parking • Outside space • Short walk to Clapham Junction

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£550,000 Leasehold Clapham High Street, SW4 • Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Open-plan layout • Located on Clapham high street

020 3668 1000

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www.currell.com

07/10/2013 10:53

ABSOLUTELY Property

Living the Dream Honeywell Road, SW11 £1,800 Per Week Detached, double-fronted and spectacularly designed, this substantial Victorian property has been transformed into a magnificent sixbedroom home for the modern family.

Having been extended and re-designed from top to toe by the present owners with flair and a great eye for design, this is a stylish contemporary family home with exceptional natural light, wow-factor in spades and a considered practical edge too. It’s positioned directly off fashionable Northcote Road and is close to excellent schools.

Available in January 2014.

John Thorogood 020 7228 7474; john-thorogood.co.uk

Turret Grove, SW4 £2,250,000 Freehold

Elm Park, SW2 £630,000 Freehold This house is a stunning example of period architecture blended with a contemporary finishing. A luxurious kitchen will be a bliss to the gastronomically inclined and the perfect postage stamp courtyard garden accessed from the rear is nothing short of delightful. The two double bedrooms provide superb accommodation and having previously been a three bedroom house, the third bedroom has been converted into a significantly larger than average, highly attractive bathroom suite. haart, Brixton 020 7274 2878; haart.co.uk

A stunning, very bright newly constructed six bedroom contemporary house offering 3126 sq ft of some of the very best accommodation available and with an adjacent garage available by separate negotiation. Architecturally designed and built to the highest standard, this property features 4 storeys of wide, versatile living space, stylish bathrooms, bright rooms with tall ceilings and a landscaped garden over two levels. The property has under floor heating throughout and CAT 5 wiring.

Rampton Baseley 020 7228 5111; ramptonbaseley.com

Sisters Avenue, SW11 £1,725,000 This stunning five bedroom house has three bathrooms, two reception rooms, a study, two cloakrooms, a patio and garden. The house has been finished to a very high standard and is located on the Northside of Clapham Common.

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

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ABSOLUTELY Property Woodyard Lane, SE21 Guide Price £2,950,000 An architectural rarity in London, this is one of only nine Huf Houses, and is located in the centre of Dulwich Village.

Featured twice in Grand Designs, Huf houses are not simply easy living homes, but a lifestyle for what Huf describes as architectural pioneers. This house not only boasts high quality workmanship but also eco efficiency, which makes this home really comfortable, streamlined and stylish. This property offers 3132 sq ft set over three floors, floor to ceiling double glazing on the ground and first floor, bedroom balconies, a ground floor with an airy open-plan area incorporating lounge, dining room, kitchen and office, and four bedrooms with a master en-suite and family bathroom.

Pedder, Dulwich Village 020 8299 0922; pedderproperty.com

Kingfisher House, Battersea Reach SW18 £3,500 Per Week This stunning four bedroom penthouse apartment in Battersea Reach offers 360 degree views across the River Thames and London.

Spread across two floors, there is a large, open plan reception room/dining room, fully fitted kitchen, utility room and three bathrooms – two of which are en-suite. It offers a high specification throughout, with air conditioning, mood lighting and an upgraded Orpus AV system. In addition to the 2600 sq ft of internal space there are three large terraces, and an outdoor hot tub. Offered furnished.

Martin & Co, Riverside 020 7585 0504; martinco.com

Putney High Street, SW15 £2,261 Per Week (Short Let) Featured on Channel 5’s ‘I Own Britain’s Best Home’, this exquisite three double bedroom family home is located in the heart of Putney. As well as boasting a unique

and ultra stylish interior, the property also offers sumptuous extras such as two steam rooms, an integrated sound system and an amazing outdoor space. Available from three weeks to six months.

Short Let in London 020 8675 8308; ShortLetInLondon.com

Spotlight on SW15: Average asking price - £1,057,362Average asking rents - £2,367 pcmAverage property value - £543,542

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Balham Park Road, SW12 | ÂŁ4,250,000 Freehold With six double bedrooms, this outstanding double fronted Victorian family home is situated in this very enviable location, moments from Wandsworth Common and Bellevue Road. The house offers almost 4,200 sq ft of beautifully proportioned living space and to the rear there is an exquisite 50ft landscaped south facing garden.

Wide entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Play room | Study | Bespoke kitchen | Cinema room | Master bedroom with en-suite marble bathroom | Guest bedroom with en-suite bathroom | Four further double bedrooms | Two further bath/shower rooms | Guest cloakroom | Utility room | South facing landscaped garden | EPC Rating: F | 4,187 sq ft (389 sq m)

rymer-irens.com

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Wexford Road, SW12 | ÂŁ3,500,000 Freehold This truly magnificent semi detached Victorian house is arranged over four floors and boasts two reception rooms and a beautifully extended kitchen/ family room which leads on to the secluded west facing garden. Along with five double bedrooms and a double garage, the house is also close to the popular Bellevue Road, Northcote Road and Wandsworth Common.

Elegant entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Cloakroom | Kitchen/ family room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Four further bedrooms | Two further bathrooms and separate shower room | Large office on the third floor | Cellar | 38ft west facing landscaped garden | Garden studio | Double garage | EPC Rating: E | 4500 sq ft (418 sq m)

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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Lyford Road, SW18 | ÂŁ3,300,000 Freehold On one of the most prestigious residential roads within the Magdalen Estate, this semi-detached family home offers almost 3,700 sq ft of living space. Along with six bedrooms, a double reception room, an impressive extended kitchen/family room, a superb converted lower ground floor, there is also a beautiful 70ft landscaped south west facing garden.

Entrance hall | Kitchen/dining/family room | Double reception room | Media room | Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom | Five further bedrooms | Two further bathrooms | Shower room | Second kitchen/utility room | Store room | Guest cloakroom | 70ft south west facing garden | Off street parking | EPC Rating: E | 3697sq ft (344 sq m)

rymer-irens.com

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Ellerton Road, SW18 | ÂŁ1,325,000 Freehold Immaculately presented throughout, this charming Edwardian family house is situated in the heart of the Magdalen Estate. Offering well-proportioned accommodation throughout, with two delightful reception rooms, four double bedrooms and a charming 49ft garden, the house is also perfect for a growing family as there is scope to extend (subject to planning).

Entrance hall | Drawing room | Dining room | Breakfast room | Kitchen | Four bedrooms | Bathroom | Separate W.C. | 49ft rear garden with paved terrace | EPC Rating: E | 1600 sq ft (149 sq m)

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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FOR SALE

Northcote Road Between The Commons SW11 £495,000 | LEASEHOLD This lovely first floor, two bedroom flat with beautiful open-plan reception room/ kitchen is superbly located half a mile from Clapham Junction with direct services to the City/West End, is close to both Wandsworth and Clapham Commons and has fashionable Northcote Road’s bars, shops and restaurants on its doorstep.

EPC - D

• Entrance Hall • Reception Room • Open-plan Kitchen • 2 Double Bedrooms • Built-in Wardrobes

• Bath/Shower Room/WC • Corner Aspect • Residents’ Parking • London Borough of Wandsworth • 540 SQ.FT / 50.2 SQ.M

FOR SALE

Broomwood Road Between The Commons, SW11 £575,000 | LONG LEASEHOLD This delightful two bedroom spilt-level maisonette has a contemporary feel and a sunny south-facing roof terrace. Arranged on the top floors of this Victorian property it has a funky open-plan living/dining/kitchen room with windows on three sides. Close to fashionable Northcote Road and both Wandsworth and Clapham Commons EPC - D

• Entrance Hall • Reception Room/Dining/Kitchen • 2 Double Bedrooms • Built-in Wardrobes • Bath/Shower Room/WC

• South-Facing Roof Terrace • Residents’ Parking • London Borough of Wandsworth • 807 SQ.FT / 75 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

£1,750,000 | FREEHOLD This substantially wide 6-bed Victorian family house, bang in the heart of the likely Honeywell catchment area and just off fashionable Northcote road, has been stylishly extended and is now in excess of 2700 square feet. It has a bright modern style, grand proportions and beautiful features in the principal rooms, whilst its corner position affords handy side access to its wide landscaped garden. EPC - D

• End-of-Terrace • Wide Hall • Double Reception Room • Extended Kitchen/Family Room • Basement TV/Music Room • Utility Room • Cloakroom/WC

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• Landscaped Garden • Side Gate • 6 Bedrooms • 3 Bath/Shower Rooms • Eaves Storage • L.B. Wandsworth • 2713 SQ.FT/ 252 SQ.M

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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FOR SALE

Grandison Road Between The Commons, SW11 £1,395,000 | FREEHOLD This dramatically re-designed family house delivers wow-factor in spades, courtesy of a sensational 30’ kitchen/family room, a large, landscaped rear garden (35’ x 20’) and a generous master suite. It has been imaginatively refurbished and is finished in contemporary style throughout with an excellent feeling of light and space. The house is conveniently close to Belleville and Honeywell Schools, fashionable Northcote Road and about half a mile from Clapham Junction / Clapham South stations. EPC - D

• Entrance Hall • Front Reception Room • 30’ Kitchen/Dining/Family Room • 35’ X 20’ Landscaped Garden • 20’ Master Bedroom

• En Suite Shower Room/WC • 3 Further Bedrooms • Family Bath/Shower Room/WC • 1812 SQ.FT/168.3 SQ.M

FOR SALE

Cairns Road Off Northcote Road SW11 £1,495,000 | FREEHOLD One of two available. These fully refurbished substantial family homes with pristine classical Victorian facades and highly contemporary interiors, have been renovated to a first-class specification throughout, and occupy a super-convenient location less than a quarter mile from Clapham Junction station with fashionable Northcote Road on their doorstep. EPC - C

• Open Plan Double Reception • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Family /TV Room • Utility Room • Cloakroom/WC • Landscaped Garden

• 5 Bedrooms • 3 Bath/Shower Rooms • Garden/Terrace • L.B. Wandsworth • No chain.

• c. 2100 - 2200 SQ.FT/ 194 - 204 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

Hillier Road,

Between The Commons SW11 £1,795,000 | FREEHOLD A family home fit for the 21st Century, this stylish interior-designed 5-bedroom Victorian house has been refurbished to an exacting standard from top to bottom.

Extended into loft and side return, it boasts acres of living space, while the excavated basement provides an invaluable family room or fifth bedroom and separate utility room. Situated close to Honeywell School, Northcote Road and Clapham South tube. EPC – C • Double Reception Room • Fully Extended Kitchen/Family Room • 5 Bedrooms • 5 Bath/Shower Rooms • Family Room/Playroom/5th Bedroom • SW-Facing Garden • Utility Room

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• Downstairs WC • Steam Room • Master Bedroom with large En-Suite Bathroom • 3 Further Double Bedrooms • 3 Further Bath/Shower Rooms • Basement Storage Area • 2457 SQ.FT/ 228.2 SQ.MT

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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TO LET

Mallinson Road Between the Commons SW11 £895 | PER WEEK This stylish Victorian townhouse with a consistent contemporary finish from top to toe has a super-convenient location directly between fashionable Northcote road and exclusive Wandsworth Common and less than half a mile from Clapham Junction. With an elegant exterior and an interior it enjoys a practical layout to include 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and wonderfully light-open-plan living space.

Available to let now, unfurnished. EPC - D

• Double Reception Room • 4 Double Bedrooms • Extended Kitchen/fam Rm • Large Family Bathroom

• Shower Room/Wc • South-Facing Garden • 1764 Sq Ft/163.8 Sq M • Available Now

TO LET

Montholme Road Between The Commons SW11 £1,000 | PER WEEK This exceptional 4/5 bedroom Victorian property (2074 SQ.FT) has been meticulously designed and extended to a first-class standard and provides luxury in all areas. Highlights include three contemporary bath/shower rooms, a beautiful kitchen/family room with folding doors to a lovely walled garden. The property is close to fashionable Northcote Road, excellent train/tube links and the highly sought-after state schools, Honeywell, Belleville and Bolingbroke Academy. EPC - D

• Double Reception Room • Kitchen/Family Room • Wrap-around Kitchen Extension • Walled Garden • Guest WC • Master Bedroom

• Large En-Suite Bath/Shower Room • 4 Double Bedrooms • Study/Bedroom 5 • 2 Further Bath/Shower Room/WCs • Cellar • 2074 SQ.FT/192.6 SQ.M + Storage

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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TO LET

Honeywell Road

Between The Commons SW11 £1800 | PER WEEK Detached, double-fronted and spectacularly designed, this substantial Victorian property has been transformed into a magnificent six-bedroom home for the modern family. It’s positioned just off fashionable Northcote Road on this highly prized stretch of road by Wandsworth Common, close to excellent schools (including ever-popular Honeywell and Belleville) and good transport links. EPC – E

• Gated Front Garden • 3 Reception Rooms • Ground Floor Study • Cloakroom/WC • Double-Height Glass Extension • Kitchen/Dining/Living Room • Utility Room

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• 37’ x 32’ Rear Garden • 6 Bedrooms • 3 Bath/Shower Rooms • Dressing Room • LB Wandsworth • Residents’ Parking • 3336 SQ.FT/ 310 SQ.M (inc VOID & Storage)

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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

LOCAL STREET

Elsynge Road and the other streets boast properties built for the Great Exhibition of 1851. Their varied early Victorian architecture and the unique style of every house is fantastic.

Charles Streatfeild Marsh & Parsons, Battersea

KIDS

It’s a Kid’s Thing on Magdalen Road (itsakidsthing.co.uk) is a small independent playzone, it does drop in play and they organise legendary children’s parties.

Fiona Bourke Sullivan Thomas, Wandsworth

LOCAL HANGOUT

Brew, a café on Northcote Road, has a chilled out atmosphere with great ‘Kiwi’ flat whites and some of the best chorizo eggs around. A relaxing way to start the weekend.

Victoria Farrar Currell, Battersea

020 7228 9292; marshandparsons.co.uk

020 8682 3121; sullivanthomas.co.uk

020 3668 1000; currell.com

INTERIORS

TIME OUT

FACT

Brissi on Northcote Road is a one-stop-shop for all the luxury interior inspiration you could need.

Understated and hugely stylish, you’ll find the perfect lamp that ties the room together here.

A massage with Pamela Rhatigan at Neal’s Yard Remedies is always a good way to rejuvenate.

Pamela also offers natural facelifts, reflexology and Indian head massages if desired.

Angus Irens Rymer Irens

020 8767 2222; rymer-irens.com

Paul Lintott

John D Wood & Co., Wimbledon

020 8944 7172; johndwood.co.uk

The first permanent bridge between Fulham and Putney was completed in 1729, and was the second bridge to be built across the Thames in London (after London Bridge).

Nicole

Chamberland Chamberland Residential

020 8704 1313; chamberlandres.co.uk

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Bristol Gardens, SW15 A magnificent gated seven bedroom detached house located on one of the premier roads in the heart of Putney Heath. The house has a garage, off-street parking for a number of cars and a 97ft rear garden. EPC: E

Guide Price £4,250,000 Freehold • • • • • •

Detached 4 reception rooms 7 bedrooms 4 bathrooms Garden Private parking

Hamptons Putney Sales. 020 8454 7617 | Lettings. 020 8454 7619

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71% WOULD PAY MORE

ÂŁ2,500,000 Freehold Rusholme Road SW15

Beauty is in the eye of the Freeholder 71% of 300 people surveyed would pay extra for a flat with a share of freehold as opposed to a long lease.

Call our expert team on 020 7591 8746 to discuss the best options available to you.

This superb architecturally designed family house boasts wonderful lateral living space.

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

5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, Kitchen, Garden, Off-street parking, EPC: D.

ÂŁ2,300,000 Freehold Erpingham Road SW15

This charming house is located on a popular and sought-after road in prime West Putney.

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

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, Conservatory, West-facing garden, EPC: E.

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douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ2,000,000 Freehold Battersea Bridge Road SW11

An exciting opportunity to purchase this attractive family home, minutes from Battersea Park.

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

6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/family room, Garden, EPC: D.

ÂŁ1,750,000 Freehold Rodenhurst Road SW4

A fantastic double-fronted family home with the benefit of off-street parking and a beautiful garden.

Clapham South Sales 020 8675 4400 clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

4/5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Conservatory, Kitchen, Garden, Parking, EPC: E.

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1

Catch us if you can Thank you so much – we have almost reached the 2,500 testimonials mark! If you can keep up with them, you can read them all on our website douglasandgordon.com

TESTIMONIALS

£1,550,000 Freehold Grandison Road SW11

£1,115,000 Freehold Engadine Street SW18

This substantial Victorian family home boasts a wonderful part decked part lawned garden.

This charming, newly refurbished house is situated on the popular Southfields Grid.

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

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Downstairs cloakroom, 40ft garden, EPC: D.

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

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

£749,950 Freehold Abbeville Road SW4

£550,000 Leasehold Alderbrook Road SW12

A fantastic mews house which is set just back from the Abbeville Road.

A delightful, two bedroom flat, situated a short walk from the green expanses of Clapham Common.

2 bedrooms, Family bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: D.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, Second floor, EPC: B.

Clapham South Sales 020 8675 4400 clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

Balham Sales 020 8673 0191 balhamsales@dng.co.uk

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douglasandgordon.com

£975 per week Unfurnished Broxash Road SW11

£875 per week Unfurnished Rozel Road SW4

A stunning five bedroom family home ideally located moments from the open spaces of Clapham Common.

A very well presented family house in this quiet residential street in Clapham Old Town.

5 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Courtyard garden, EPC: D.

5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Modern kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Decked & lawn garden, EPC: D.

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

Clapham South Lettings 020 8675 0888 clapsthlets@dng.co.uk

£775 per week Unfurnished Khyber Road SW11

£675 per week Unfurnished Kenilford Road SW12

This immaculate property is the perfect home for any family with a fully extended kitchen leading out onto a pretty patio garden.

An immaculately presented double-fronted family home which has been refurbished to a high standard throughout.

4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, EPC: F.

3 double bedrooms, Family bathroom, Kitchen/breakfast room, Utility room, Reception room, Under-floor heating, Garden, EPC: D.

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

Clapham South Lettings 020 8675 0888 clapsthlets@dng.co.uk

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Can I see your licence?

Every single D&G office has NAEA & ARLA licensed member status, does your estate agent? Only this accreditation guarantees you a qualified and trained agent and a route to redress should anything go wrong (which, of course, it won’t).

£634 per week Unfurnished Clonmore Street SW18

£550 per week Unfurnished Broomwood Road SW11

A spacious, newly decorated family house, positioned on the popular Southfields Grid.

A fabulous two bedroom garden flat perfect for a couple or for two professional sharers.

5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, Kitchen, Cloakroom, Garden, EPC: D.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom with bath and separate shower, Kitchen/ reception room, Paved garden, EPC: D.

Southfields Lettings 020 8874 8844 sthfldslets@dng.co.uk

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

£525 per week Furnished Vicarage Crescent SW11

£500 per week Unfurnished/Furnished Dryburgh Road SW15

A well presented, spacious three bedroom flat arranged over two floors.

A stunning two bedroom apartment which is part of this modern purpose-built development.

3 double bedrooms, Bathroom, 2 reception rooms, Kitchen, 4th floor, EPC: G.

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Open-plan Kitchen/reception room, Communal gardens, Underground parking, EPC: B.

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

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

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douglasandgordon.com

£1,840 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. The house offers well-proportioned living and entertaining space.

6 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, Large garden, Off-street parking for two cars, Gardener included every 2 weeks, EPC: F.

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

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Click with us at jacksonsestateagents.com

Sophie Doughty, Sales Manager

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03/10/2013 10:32 16:38 02/10/2013