Absolutely Fulham April 2013 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY APRIL 2013 £3.95

THE FAMILY ISSUE

Fulham

FUN & GAMES CHILDREN'S PARTIES

GAME OF THRONES JAQUES OF LONDON

ON CARDS, CROQUET & COMPETITION

SPOONFUL OF SUGAR RESTAURANTS FOR LITTLE ONES

FOR THE MILLIONAIRE MUMMY

All things bright BEAT THE BLUES AND LOOK TO A NEW DAWN

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 CHELSEA COVERS.indd 2

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Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington

Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales

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7225 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

3866 7100 3666 9959 1111 1010

Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings

020 020 020 020 020 020

7589 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

9966 7100 3866 9959 1111 1010

City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management

Tournay Road

| Fulham | SW6

020 020 020 020 020

7600 7318 7629 7318 7052

3456 5039 7282 5198 9417

struttandparker.com

Gironde Road

| Fulham | SW6

2,390 (222 sq m) EPC rating: E

2,207 sq ft (205 sq m) EPC rating: F

A substantial well-proportioned five bedroom house moments from Parsons Green and Fulham Broadway.

Rare to the market, this five bedroom house benefits from a south facing garden and a front mansard extension.

Asking price £1,825,000 Freehold

Fulham Sales 020 7731 7100

Doneraile Street

| Fulham | SW6

2,368 sq ft (220 sq m) EPC rating: E

Drawing room

en suite bathroom

Asking price £1,650,000 Freehold

Fulham Sales 020 7731 7100

Bishops Road

| Fulham | SW6

1,744 sq ft (162 sq m) EPC rating: F

A wonderful, semi-detached, house on the south side of An immaculately presented four bedroom house with a one of the most popular ‘Alphabet Streets’ full top floor, moments from Parsons Green.

Permission to substantially extend

Asking price £2,750,000 Freehold

Drawing room

| Kitchen/dining room | Four bedrooms | Cloakroom | Garden

Two bathrooms

Asking price £1,595,000

Fulham Sales 020 7731 7100

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Clonmel Road

| Fulham | SW6

Rosaville Road

| Fulham | SW6

1,544 sq ft (143.44 sq m) EPC rating: E

1,460 sq ft (135.64 sq m) EPC rating: E

A fantastic three bedroom house located in a charming residential road in the heart of Parsons Green.

A very well presented four double bedroom family house in the highly sought after ‘Villes’ location.

| Kitchen | Three double bedrooms Two bathrooms (one en suite) | Cellar storage | Paved garden

| Kitchen | Four double bedrooms Two bathrooms | Paved garden

Double reception room

Reception room

£850 per week, Furnished/Unfurnished

£825 per week, Unfurnished

Fulham Lettings 020 7731 7100

Hugon Road

| Fulham | SW6

Fulham Lettings 020 7731 7100

Shottendane Road

| Fulham | SW6

904.2 sq ft (84 sq m) EPC rating: D

845 sq ft (79 sq m) EPC rating: D

A wonderful, spacious first and second floor maisonette with the benefit of a roof terrace.

A neutrally decorated and very well presented two bedroom garden flat in the heart of Parsons Green.

Reception room Roof terrace

| Kitchen | Two double bedrooms | Bathroom

£450 per week, Furnished

Fulham Lettings 020 7731 7100

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Open plan kitchen/reception room Bathroom

| Two double bedrooms

| Cellar storage | Garden

£525 per week, Unfurnished

Fulham Lettings 020 7731 7100

25/03/2013 18:51

FSL1096 Featherstone Leigh ABSO A4 FULHAM qxd:Layout 1 28/02/2013 15:10 Page 11 FSL1096 Featherstone Leigh ABSO A4 RICHMOND qxd:Layout 1 28/02/2013 15:09 Page 1

FSL1096 Featherstone Leigh ABSO A4 RICHMOND qxd

featherstoneleigh.co.uk featherstoneleigh.co.uk featherstoneleigh.co.uk featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Strawberry Hill Road, Strawberry Hill

£1,200,000

A substantial five bedroom semi-detached double fronted house, situated in the heart of this much sought after Strawberry Hill area.

t: 020 8744 0595

Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6 Strawberry Hill Road, Strawberry Hill

£1,395,000 Freehold £1,200,000

An impressive and well presented five bed-

A substantial five bedroom semi-detached double room ‘Lion House’ with a lovely garden close fronted house, situated in the heart of this much to Fulham Broadway. EPC = D sought after Strawberry Hill area.

t: 020 7610 9755 t: 020 8744 0595

Richmond

Twickenham

Kew

Teddington

Sheen West Kensington Richmond Fulham

Hammersmith Twickenham Chiswick

Clapham Chiswick Putney

Richmond Fulham Kew

Kew Chelsea Sheen

Teddington Battersea Kingston

Hammersmith Barnes West Kensington

Chelsea Sheen Battersea

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Kingston Twickenham Clapham Teddington

Putney Kingston Richmond Barnes Kew

Twickenham

Sheen

Kingston

Teddington

28/03/2013 20:29

ABSOLUTELY APRIL 2013

CONTENTS 9

EDITOR’S LETTER

10 ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top ten this month

ARTS & CULTURE 13 WHAT’S ON This month’s diary

23 PLAY IT COOL

Edwina Langley breakfasts with children’s party organisers, ‘Sharky and George’

44 TRUE COLOURS OF KAFFE

Camilla Norton meets the King of craft, Kaffe Fassett

59 THE HAPPY FAMILY

Joe Jaques, of Jaques of London, on family history and Second World War escape kits

STYLE 39 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

Violet Naylor-Leyland fi nds top hats and neons

41 DIAMONDS IN THE BUFF

Jewels inspired by April’s birthstone

73 SPRING GLOW Eight of the best fake tans

75 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

Pia Stanchina tells how to have the perfect pregnancy

FEATURES 33 TALES OF THE TALISMAN De Beers’ guide to diamonds

65 GIRLS ON FILM

Duran Duran’s Nick Rhodes on breaking into photography and his love for Chelsea

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68 WILD CAT John Rendall on raising Christian the Lion in World’s End, and setting him free in Kenya

86 THE HISTORY OF THE HOSPITAL

Author, Tim Gosling, reveals the history behind the Royal Hospital, Chelsea

INTERIORS 79 TOP DOG BOWL

The best dog bowls for your pooch

78 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Spring-inspired ideas for April

83 GET THE LOOK

Dragons of Walton Street present the ultimate children’s bedroom

FOOD & TRAVEL 88 SOCIALISING IN SOHO

Georgie Lane-Godfrey talks fruity language with Michelinstarred chef, Jason Atherton

90 RESTAURANT REVIEW

Catherine Hales, Sofia Lloyd and Venetia Walker take on Chelsea’s family restaurants

97 LAND OF MILK AND HONEY

Gabriel O’Rourke gets to the roots of Beirut

PROPERTY 112 PROPERTY NEWS News and views, plus Ruth Bloomfield

130 MOVING IN

Local agents give their recommendations

28/03/2013 18:51

ABSOLUTELY Fulham

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF HARRIET COMPSTON EDITOR EDWINA LANGLEY EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS CATHERINE HALES, LAURA KETTLE FASHION FEATURES EDITOR VIOLET NAYLOR-LEYLAND INTERIORS EDITOR TARA CRAIG CONTRIBUTING EDITOR PAUL COSTELLOE ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER NICOLA OWENS • Editorial associatE & account ManagEr ALICE MILNER GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER • cEntral ProPErtY ManagEr ANNA HUTTON-POTTS ART DIRECTOR RAY SEARLE • sEnior dEsignEr PHIL COUZENS PRODUCTION DESIGNERS GEMMA ISTEED, TAHIR KAPUCU DESIGNER ANDREW MAVIN • junior dEsignEr EDWARD TAYLOR PRODUCTION ASSISTANT CHRISTINE MANN • FinancE dirEctor ALEXANDRA HVID FINANCE MANAGER ALTAF KARMALI • MarkEting ManagEr LEAH DAY DIRECTOR GREG HUGHES MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

Published by ZEST MEDIA PUBLICATIONS LTD 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS, ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’

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EDITOR’S

LETTER APRIL 2013

adly my weather predictions last month did not come to fruition, so I won’t try again, howeather [sic], in this edition are lots of seasonal things which I hope will enable you to at least imagine spring has burst its way through those flower beds… This month is our Family Special, because families are special. Especially that of Joe Jaques, who now runs Jaques of London – the family-owned games company behind much-loved classics such as Croquet, Ping Pong and, my favourite, TiddleyWinks. I chatted to Joe about generations of Jaques and how chess sets helped POWs escape during the war. John Rendall, who brought over 100 million people to tears when the You Tube clip of his reunion with Christian the Lion went viral in 2008, tells us the tail (yes, yes, ‘tale’) of raising the cub from his home in… Chelsea. Yup that’s right, Chelsea. Mum and Dad’s favourite band, Duran Duran, spare us a few minutes with their founder Nick Rhodes, who tells us how flustered he was breaking into photography. For someone who has played to stadiums of thousands, this made perfect sense to us, this flustering over a camera. King of craft, Kaffe Fassett, natters about knitting, and handsome duo ‘Sharky and George’ tell us how to get through the headache of children’s parties. With our inaugural Men Only page and our family restaurant round up too, I am certain there is lots in this issue to put a spring in your step… before you splosh in a puddle, of course. Sigh.

Edwina Langley Editor FIND US ON FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ AND TWITTER ‘ABSOLUTELY_MAGS’ PAINDESUCRE.COM

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LETTER BOOK BOXES BY JOY

The ideal present, these adorable letter book boxes are perfect for storing trinkets and keep sakes. Newly released at the end of this month, they are spot on for godchildren’s birthdays or hard-to-buyfor nieces. £7 each, Fulham Broadway Station, SW6, joythestore.com

things we

Absolutely

LOVE

EMBELLISHED COLLAR NECKLACE BY NICOLE FARHI

ZAEEM JAMAL NEW COLLECTION The rest of your outfit will feel jealous of your feet when they spy these glitzy designs. Any one of Zaeem Jamal’s exquisite new pairs of shoes will add both sparkle and style to your look. We particularly love these Turquoise Flower of Life Ballerinas. £225, 309 King’s Road, SW3; zaeemjamal.com

Want to engage in the floral trend but don’t want to be too girly? This fabulous collar necklace embraces summer flowers, whilst maintaining a contemporary edge; the design is created with clusters of plastic shapes. £95, 115 Fulham Road, SW3; nicolefarhi.com

Editor’s

PICK

CORONATION MUG BY EMMA BRIDGEWATER Show your patriotic side by sipping tea out of this Emma Bridgewater mug on The Queen’s birthday (21 April). British designed and created in elegant colours featuring a shade of royal purple it will complement your afternoon tea perfectly. £19.95, 739 Fulham Road, SW6; emmabridgewater.co.uk

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PARIS CABARET BY FIRED EARTH

It was a case of love at first sight with these handmade Fired Earth tiles. Not only are they sold in a range of aqua shades but they can be used on both walls and floors. We’re very tempted to do both. £8.95 per tile, 117-119 Fulham Road, SW3; firedearth.com

PEONEVE BY PENHALIGON’S This new fragrance from Penhaligon’s is inspired by an English garden in summer and includes notes of Peony, Bulgarian Rose and Hedione. What could be better than surrounding yourself with such luxurious floral scents? From £85, 132 King’s Road, SW3; penhaligons.com

IMOGEN HEATH ROSA CUSHION

Imogen Heath is a young textile designer whose cushions are sold at Heal’s and we absolutely love her wonderful, considered prints. One cushion we particularly covet is this Rosa design. With its beautiful fresh colour combination, it’s guaranteed to bring spring to any room. £65, Available from Heal’s, 234 King’s Road, SW3; heals.co.uk

EMI DRESS BY BEAUTIFUL SOUL Made and manufactured in England, Beautiful Soul designs combine old fashioned elegance with contemporary appeal. This silk dress is a favourite of ours with its strong print and colours, it’s sophisticated but easy to wear. £540, Available from Fifi Wilson, 1 Godfrey Street, SW3; fifiwilson.com

TESSELLA FROM FARROW AND BALL

Simple but highly effective. Tessella is one of the latest wallpaper offerings from Farrow and Ball and its bold geometric design is sure to be an instant success. Choose between five grey, blue and aqua shades. £78 per roll, 249 Fulham Road, SW3; farrow-ball.com

THE HUMMINGBIRD BAKERY HOME SWEET HOME: With 100 new recipes, The Hummingbird Bakery cookbooks are best sellers for a reason. Their reliable recipes produce the most mouth-watering delights. This latest offering includes Red Velvet Roulades, Pecan and Toffee Thumbprint Cookies, Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes... Heading to the bookshop yet? £15, Available from Waterstones, 150-152 King’s Road, SW3; waterstones.com

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PHALAENOPSIS ORCHID NO 4 © HIROYUKI ARAKAWA _ THE LITTLE BLACK GALLERY

FLOWERS Little Black Gallery

30 April–1 June Displaying works by photographers Hiroyuki Arakawa and Lisa Creagh, ‘Flowers’ features Arakawa’s intimate study of white flowers, an homage to his mother who was a traditional Master of Flower Arrangement and the Tea Ceremony. Creagh’s ‘Instant Garden’, by contrast, is a series of photographs, ‘made not taken’, inspired by Dutch flower paintings. Sponsored by ‘Scent by Design’. 13A Park Walk, SW10, 020 7349 933; thelittleblackgallery.com

April

WHAT’S

ON Whats On.indd 13

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David Yarrow Eleven Gallery

12–20 April Take in the wonders of the natural world with this exhibition from David Yarrow. A documentation of his extensive travels, Yarrow’s photographs depict the extraordinary vistas and wildlife of the remotest corners of the earth and allow you to explore, by proxy, the untouched and sometimes daunting landscapes that so few eyes have ever seen for real. Majestic. 11 Eccleston Street, SW1, 020 7823 5540; elevenfineart.com

Mountbatten Festival of Music Royal Albert Hall

11-13 April The Massed Bands of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines gather together this April to delight the ears of Albert Hall concertgoers. Performing a combination of different styles and genres, there is something for everyone; from traditional military marches, to classical overtures, to favourites from stage and screen. Children and adults alike will enjoy this marvellous musical event. Kensington Gore, SW7, 0845 401 5045; royalalberthall.com

Selected Electric Presents Troubadour

16 April One night of live acoustic music and four brilliant acts, all for the very reasonable price of £6! Starting at 8pm and going to the early hours, the new night will feature Gareth Esson, Broken Boat, Bare Jams and Jova Radevska. Each act’s strong individual style is sure to make this a night to remember. And if all that doesn’t tempt you, maybe their cocktail happy hour from 8-10pm will. 265 Old Brompton Road, Earl’s Court, SW5, 020 7370 1434; troubadour.co.uk 14

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF ELEVEN, LONDON

ARTS&CULTURE

Mary Newcomb Exhibition Crane Kalman Gallery 25 April–1 June

Originally a student of natural sciences, Mary Newcomb’s art reflects scientists’ fascination with the world, and the precision and intensity with which they study it. Her work is far from clinical however, often showing her sense of humour and her personal take on rural surroundings. A charming exhibition that leaves you feeling you have just escaped to the country. 178 Brompton Road, SW3, 020 7584 7566; cranekalman.com

Dorothy Bohm: Sixties London Proud Chelsea 14 March–28 April

Sensational Butterflies Natural History Museum

29 March–15 September Watch as caterpillars become butterflies before your eyes! In the Natural History Museum’s ‘Sensational Butterflies’, witness these incredible creatures emerge from their chrysalises through the hatchery window. Bursting with specimens from around the world, and full of tropical plants, this interactive exhibition allows you to peek into the colourful world of these stunning creatures. Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7, 020 7942 5000; nhm.ac.uk

On arrival in London in 1939, Dorothy Bohm regarded the skyline with awe and wonder, describing it as ‘a city of spires, domes and palaces!’ Twenty years later, Bohm returned to the city she loved. This series of photographs depicts her singular vision of Sixties London and her nostalgia for a vanished era. 161 King's Road, SW3, 020 7349 0822; proud.co.uk © DOROTHY BOHM ARCHIVE

Splinter: Independent Photography Dealer’s Fair Michael Hoppen Gallery

27-28 April Six private photography dealers have come together to offer the opportunity to snap up, or merely peruse, a wide range of photographs spanning the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. You’ll be pleased to hear that with prices ranging from a few hundred to £1,000, newcomers to the art-buying game need not be intimidated. These photographs will be joined by works from the talented second year MA students from The Royal College of Art, whose pieces will also be exhibited and available to buy. 3 Jubilee Place, SW3, 020 7352 3649; michaelhoppengallery.com 15

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ARTS&CULTURE BOOK REVIEW

CULTURE

FLASH

THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS THEATRE REVIEW MIES JULIE WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY YAEL FARBER RIVERSIDE STUDIOS UNTIL 19 MAY

With a five star review from The Daily Telegraph and four stars from The Guardian, much was expected from Yael Farber’s adaptation of August Strindberg’s Miss Julie. Brought from 19th century Sweden to present day South Africa, Mies Julie takes place on Freedom Day, the anniversary of the end of apartheid. Outside, black farm workers drink, dance and celebrate; inside, the dutiful servant, John, polishes his master’s shoes under the predatory glare of his master’s daughter, Miss Julie. A night of passion ensues – raw, animalistic, violent – one that throws up questions of ownership, race, class and gender, before pounding them across the stage to devastating consequences.

There was infinite potential for this to be a truly epic production. And I’m sure in the past it has been. But the night I saw it, it wasn’t. To an audience, it is glaringly obvious when an actor believes what they are doing and when they are just going through the motions. In this case, it was the latter. Bongile Mantsai’s John and Hilda Cronje’s Julie needed a night off, plain and simple. And this was a huge shame; for had not each move seemed choreographed, each hair flick overdramatised, each groan and each moan, pitched to precisely the same level as that which went before, this show would have been mind-blowing. Shock tactics (or graphic onstage sex scenes) became distraction tactics; distraction from the fact this show had agonizingly lost is libido. Let’s hope it’s since got it back. By Edwina Langley. Crisp Road, W6, 020 8237 1111; riversidestudios.co.uk

DAPHNE DU MAURIER AND HER SISTERS: THE HIDDEN LIVES OF PIFFY, BIRD AND BING BY JANE DUNN HARPERS PRESS, £25

amilies are the soil out of which character grows, and there is no richer compost than the relationship of sisters – Daphne du Maurier and her Sisters. A riveting new group biography from Jane Dunn, it explores the extraordinary and different lives of Piffy, Bird and Bing the three du Maurier sisters. Though Daphne, ‘Bird’ the middle sister and author of the haunting Rebecca, is the most celebrated, Angela ‘Piffy’, and Jeanne ‘Bing’, also lived unconventionally creative lives. All, however, were overshadowed by their parents, namely, Sir Gerald du Maurier, their dominant, youth-obsessed father, famed for playing George Darling and Captain Hook on the West End stage. All sisters were sexually ambivalent – with complex, hidden, erotic lives. Jeanne became a painter and lived with a woman. Daphne married a war hero and had three children, but still pursued bisexual love affairs. Angela, also a novelist, lived to 97 and starred as Wendy in Peter Pan. Instead of flying away through the window however, like their hero Peter, the sisters sought escape, to their own ‘Neverland’ in Cornwall. Daphne’s most enduring infatuation was with her house ‘Menabilly’, which she rescued from ruin and inspired the sinister ‘Manderley’ in Rebecca. By Alice Coke

JUKEBOX: DAVE BERRY’S TOP PICKS Tom Odell Hold Me

Although Tom is demanding our attention here and is clearly in need of a hug, this is a great easy listening track. We are going to hear a lot more from Tom Odell in the future I feel.

Rhianna Pour It Up

The party girl seems to be describing her new wild side with this bassy hip-hop tune. Strippers, alcohol and money is the motto. Sounds like a good time to me!

Amelia Lily Party Over

The sound of the summer, this is festival-friendly. Dave hosts 95-8 Capital FM’s Breakfast show and co-foundered October House

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06/03/2013 12:58

EDUCATION

LADIES IN

WAITING

From Royalty to Redgraves, Catherine Hales uncovers the fascinating history (and famous alumni) of Queen’s Gate School, South Kensington

alking down Queen’s Gate one might easily be forgiven for overlooking the peaceful white Victorian buildings, never suspecting that a vibrant and illustrious girl’s school – Queen’s Gate – lies behind. Established in 1891 by Eleanor Beatrice Wyatt (who also founded Heathfield School in Ascot) Queen’s Gate was originally located in Miss Wyatt’s parent’s home in Stanhope Gardens. It was relocated to its current site in 1892, where it took over neighbouring houses, and over a hundred years later, expanded further to accommodate a larger Junior School. In harmony with its surroundings, Queen’s Gate School is characterised by its understated and elegant façade. Principal, Rosalynd Kamaryc, places great emphasis on the melding of the traditional and the modern, describing it as ‘an archetypal English school with an international edge.’ Celebrating its 120th anniversary in 2011, staying modern and relevant has

been paramount for the school. It currently boasts a large number of international students with over fi fty nations represented – no mean feat for an institution with just 450 students in total. Despite an insistence the school is not purely motivated by exam results, the girls’ grades remain consistently high, placing them in the Top 100 Day Schools

famous faces who have attended Queen’s Gate include the Duchess of Cornwall, Vanessa Redgrave and emerging actress, Imogen Poot. The Duchess of Cornwall was enlisted to open the new Junior block of the school in 2007, where she fondly recalled her time there – in particular playing ‘the man’ in dance classes. In addition to its varied and impressive alumni, Queen’s Gate School is also involved in philanthropic work. When the school decided to make changes to its PE kit, Louise Li (former chair of the Junior School PTA) suggested the school donate the existing sports attire to three orphanages in Cambodia. The project was a great success and the school has continued its support ever since. In balancing academic excellence with personal development, Queen’s Gate School produces legions of girls who go on to excel in a variety of fields, attending the country’s top universities. Perfectly located in the midst of London’s top museums, the opportunities at this small, homely independent day school are innumerable.

‘Queen’s Gate School was originally located in Stanhope Gardens’ for GCSEs and the Top 50 for A Levels. Any ideas of fustiness or ‘jolly hockey sticks’ stereotypes are dispelled by the school’s lack of uniform policy. Instead a more relaxed dress code is favoured to encourage individuality – fashion forwardness that is most appropriate for a school counting Trinny and Susannah, and Sophie Dahl, amongst its alumni. Other

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18/10/2012 13:30

BLYTHE

SPIRIT Catherine Hales digs deep into Blythe House to go behind the scenes of the Science Museum

hen you think of the Science Museum many images may come to mind: the grand, almost temple-like structure looming over the crosshatched Exhibition Road and the enormous illuminated globe that dominates the Space exhibit. But what you probably do not consider is the trove of curiosities and objects stored away in the Science Museum’s archive at the mysterious Blythe House. Originally built in 1899 to house the Post Office Savings Bank, it was designed by Henry Tanner who was also responsible for designing the Serpentine Gallery in Hyde Park. Beautiful and impressive from the outside, it houses not only Science Museum collections, but those of the V&A and The British Museum as well. On arrival I am greeted warmly by Rebecca Storr, the Collections Access Coordinator and Objects Administrator for Blythe House. I express incredulity at the very existence of such a place and as we begin our tour ‘Becky’ tells me that in its role as the Post Office Savings Bank, it contained one of the first examples of an open plan office.

‘The building was, decades later, leased out in the late 1970s to various users including Euston films,’ Becky continues. ‘They filmed Minder and The New Avengers here and it’s still really popular for filming today so we get a lot of requests, especially for the corridors and the stairways. Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, the remake, was filmed here.’

‘I see on my tour, a set of dentures, conﬁrming dentistry is inﬁnitely more terrifying than torture’ We arrive in the Aeronautical and Transport section, apparent by the multitude of model planes, trains and ships covering the shelves. The intricacy of these objects is astounding and my attention is immediately drawn to a beautiful wooden model Spitfire measuring about three foot long. These models were not just for decoration. Many were tested in wind tunnels and made precisely to scale, with all the same materials, in order to

predict the behavior of their real-life counterparts. I ask how they are stored as many, especially the ship models, look incredibly delicate. ‘All the rooms are humidity and temperature controlled, and fluctuations are measured,’ I’m told. ‘We check for pests as well… we have a really good pest monitoring system here.’ We leave Transport and walk down a windowless staircase (in actual fact, all the rooms are windowless in Blythe House due to the tight environmental controls) past some locked doors. Becky apologises and says there is radioactive material stored there, so we can’t see those particular rooms. I tell her that’s quite alright and hasten my step slightly. We next enter a room very similar to the last but filled with measuring equipment rather than models. This is home to some stunning wooden Herschel telescopes and one of Becky’s personal favourites: ‘It’s a seismograph from China used for measuring earthquakes.’ She gestures to an urn that has been cut in half and has dragon’s heads on either side, each holding a ball bearing in their mouths. At the base, in corresponding positions, sit two frogs looking upwards with their mouths gaping open. The idea is that when there is a significant enough tremor, the ball bearing falls from the

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IMAGES: SCIENCE MUSEUM / SSPL; EXTERIOR OF BLYTHE HOUSE (C) V&A

ART&CULTURE CULTURE

mouth of the dragon into the waiting maw of the frog. Not all that reliable but definitely beautiful. The next floor is Engineering and Tools, where I find the most striking items are the different sized and coloured spinning wheels. Sleeping Beauty’s worst nightmare, I think to myself. Then on to Communications where I am thrilled to discover that a phone that I actually owned (a Nokia 3310) is amongst the varied collection. As we descend further into the bowels of the building, things take a turn for the medical. We have reached the home of the Wellcome Collection, which is on permanent loan to the Science Museum. We enter a room of prosthetic limbs ranging from the basic peg leg to much more advanced joints. Becky points out a particularly clunky looking leg. ‘It’s a war amputee’s who refused an articulated

limb and made extensive repairs using both cement and glue. He became a roof thatcher and when he eventually accepted a conventional limb, it had to be heavily weighted.’ These limbs were sadly poignant, especially the ones designed for children, a lot of which I’m told suffered the horrendous effects of thalidomide in the fifties. I glimpse into Oriental Medicine and am greeted by hideous totems and smiling Buddhas. I am told we have missed the Vibrator Room, which is a pity. Although we do visit a room dedicated to torture instruments, it is the final room, located in the basement of the building that truly frightens me. Dentist chairs in all shapes, sizes and materials (including plush velvet and carved mahogany) lurk in every shadow. The last thing I see on my tour is a set of grinning dentures, confirming in my

mind, that dentistry is infinitely more terrifying than torture. One of the most surprising things about the collection at Blythe House is its extensiveness. But when I learn that 85% of the objects owned by the Science Museum are stored here, it makes perfect sense. So, out of the many fantastic things how does the museum decide which to display? ‘The researchers come up with a concept,’ says Becky, ‘then they come to Blythe to look at the items. From that, we form an exhibition.’ Blythe House is not open to the public so it’s a case of biding your time until these fabulous objects reach the museum. As one who has been behind the curtain, I can say it’s definitely worth the wait. With many thanks to the Science Museum. Exhibition Road, SW7; sciencemuseum.org.uk 21

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ART&CULTURE

PLAY IT

COOL

Children’s events duo ‘Sharky and George’ chat to Edwina Langley about school pranks, never growing up and breaking world records

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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 mother-of-all-tellingsoff. 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, tug of war, and 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 studying at Bristol University. Following graduation, both were lured by the bright lights of London, but continued to organise parties on the side. George (who lived on a boat on the Thames at the time) started out in financial headhunting, whilst Fulhambased Charlie, worked for marketing agency, Proximity. ‘We were basically doing 9am-5pm during the week and children’s parties at the weekend,’ said

hildren’s parties. Shudder. On the one hand, nothing gives you more pleasure than to see your little darling rushing around, having the time of their lives, all those weeks of pre-party chatter finally coming to fruition. But on the other, there’s something about all that action, the sugar rush, and those inevitable tantrums, that make you want to mentally implode, shove a cake bowl over your head and lock yourself in the pantry until it’s all over. In days of old ‘Smarty Artie’ was the answer. A multi-coloured clown that made animals out of balloons and squirted water from a plastic flower. Today, such characters are considered creepy and children don’t like them. So what does one

do? Grandmother’s footsteps just won’t cut it these days. Or will it… ‘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 a school prank that went down remarkably well. ‘It was quite silly really,’ says Charlie, when we met over breakfast at an adorable café near their Battersea offices. ‘In the main hall where everyone was watching, we put a funnel down our trousers, and coins on our foreheads, which we had to drop

George, ‘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,’ added 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.’

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ART&CULTURE

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 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 the shyest of children interested. 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 entertainery-types.’ It is that fundamental understanding of children that seems to have secured their success; and success they have indeed enjoyed (it’s rumoured their client list includes Elizabeth Hurley, Ewan McGregor and Sir Paul McCartney).

In and amongst this, they have founded The Exploration Society (first aid and team-building expeditions for schools) and also written an adventure book, which they plan to launch into space. It all sounds quite farcical – and I found myself nodding in disbelief at times – but what else could I have expected from the pair? Two suited old fogeys pushing the latest Health and Safety manual? They tell me they take their inspiration from, in Charlie’s case, ‘never growing up’ and in George’s, ‘being a little immature,’ in spite of the fact the latter

is married with a young baby and, like Charlie, is shortly to turn 30 (a fact Charlie was adamant I include). ‘Sharky’ was also keen I mention his greatest achievement in life to date – breaking the 2009 world record for the fastest 100m dressed as a pantomime horse, categorised in the great book under ‘Bizarre Behaviour.’ Yes, quite. We ended our jolly breakfast discussing the origins of their company 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,’ says Charlie, trying to recreate it. ‘So I’m afraid there’s no whacky story there, but by all means, do make something up.’ 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 up ahead. 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. Now I’m being childish. Darn those entertainers; they bring out the child in all of us. sharkyandgeorge.com 25

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Kids

NOTES What to do, buy and eat with the little ones

Ballet. Kensington Ballet School was set up by Karen Lowe in Kensington and has now expanded to locations across west London. Perfect after school entertainment. From £173 for a 12 week term of 30 minute classes, Tuesdays and Fridays. Christ Church, 67 Studdridge Street, SW6, 07957 650042; kensingtonballet.com

USE

BOKAC. Babysitters of Kensington and Chelsea (BOKAC) are a friendly agency with trusted sitters, all bookable online. Reasonably priced, the smiley girls (and chaps) live locally, so there are no hidden transport costs either. £10 per hour, 020 7193 2925; bokac.co.uk

WEAR

BUY

Vevian. These adorable children’s designer shoes are just the ticket for little feet on family outings. Handmade in London, each pair comes in a fabric lined box, most useful for little keepsakes. From £89; vevian.co.uk

Babes with Babies. Send a newborn little soldier this darling little soldier outfit, the ‘Changing the Guards New Baby Gift Set’. £39.95; babeswithbabies.com

EAT

Scone Pizzas. Ella’s Kitchen, The Cookbook features 70 nutritious, easy to follow recipes for you and your children. From blueberry pancakes to ‘inside out burgers’, get your kiddies cooking now. £14.99, available from Waterstones, 152 King’s Road, SW3; waterstones.com

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JACADI

Jacadi have designed ‘Chromatic Promenade in The Parisian Gardens’ new summer collection for children of all ages. For babies there is an adorable striped top, shorts and hat set, whereas for toddlers, their cotton piqué dress for girls is a must-buy. Best of all, they’re local, so you needn’t go far to buy your children’s new wardrobes. 52 Brompton Road, SW3, 020 7030 3922 or 39 King’s Road, SW3, 020 7259 9697; frenchwear.com

SQUIGGLYS PARTIES From pretty princesses to pesky pirates, fantastic face painters, to brilliant balloonists (or how about a dazzling dance party?), Squigglys Parties provide them all. They have an amazing range of fun activities and themes available for any occasion. Check out their website for full details and packages and make your booking today! 020 7998 9148 / 07531238956; info@squigglysparties.co.uk / squigglysparties.co.uk

Sweet child

OF MINE ALLSORTS DRAMA

allsorts drama for children run classes in Knightsbridge and Notting Hill, the company was founded in 1992 and is now one of London’s most respected children’s drama schools. Their popular classes run during the term time and school holidays and they also offer private tuition as well as bespoke original drama parties. 020 8969 3249; allsortsdrama.com

PRINCESS PARTIES WITH DUO! Want a customized perfect pamper party for your princess? Well, get ringing! For ages 4-14, for groups up to 14, Duo come to your chosen venue or house. Perfect! info@duoyouplusus.com

ARTPEGGIOS MUSIC SCHOOL

Artpeggios is a music and art school for everyone, boasting 400 sqm of professional equipment where children and adults alike can learn and practise music, art, photography and drama. 198-200 Earl’s CourtRroad, SW5; artpeggios.com

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

MARIE-CHANTAL

Marie-Chantal is a fun, fresh and playful luxury childrenswear brand, specialising in beautifully unique clothing, made from the finest fabrics, in distinctive designs originating from the creative vision of Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece. Marie-Chantal provides the entire child’s wardrobe, from newborn to 12 years old. Our clothes are trusted to be a consistently perfect fit, always in style and timeless. Our guests are aspirational and international clientele, who appreciate beautiful clothing and exceptional guest service, whether purchasing for their own children, or gifts for others. Available from Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1, 020 7730 1234; mariechantal.com

HYDE PARK STABLES

There is nothing more frustrating for a young horse lover than to be stuck in the city without any way of channeling their passion. Fortunately Hyde Park is the next best thing to the country. Hyde Park Stables give private and group lessons to over fives, engaging lectures on horsemenship and birthday parties too. 63 Bathurst Mews, W2, 020 7723 2813; hydeparkstables.com

MINE! LONDON

Local company, Mine! London, offers gorgeously soft personalised blankets, face cloths and towels, for kids and adults of all ages. Lovingly hand-crafted in England, they are great quality and come in a variety of colours and sizes, with a choice of fabrics for names. For an exclusive 20% discount, enter the promo code ‘Absolutely’ at checkout when shopping online at minelondon.com or call 07714 987 736

CIRCUS CIRCUS PARTY SHOP

Planning a Party? Reserve all party goodies online, collect them in-store or have everything delivered to your home (or venue) for a small price. We deliver seven days a week and best of all, we rent sweet little tables and chairs (from just 99p) for little children, and junior tables and benches for older kids. 0207 731 4128; circuscircus.co.uk

CUPCAKE Cupcake is a unique family club designed to offer exclusive baby and toddler classes provided by qualified professionals, for children 0-5 years old. Cupcake welcomes parents and parents-to-be into an oasis of fitness, seminars and courses, providing ‘fun and wellbeing for the whole family’. Cupcake Family Club, 11 Heathmans Road, Parsons Green, SW6, 0207 186 6000; cupcakemum.com / facebook.com/CupcakeMum 29

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28/03/2013 20:03

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MELISSA OBADASH AND RICHARD YOUNG

CHAMPAGNE & CAVIAR

THEO AND LOUISE FENNELL

STEPHEN AND ASIA WEBSTER

The Champagne Bureau UK celebrated ‘Joie de Vivre’, awarding Richard Young (of the gallery) the first ever UK’s ‘Le Prix Champagne De La Joie de Vivre’ prize. Theo and Louise Fennell, Perdita Weeks and Nancy Dell’Olio were among the guests, who sipped on Champagne (obviously) and nibbled dashi caviar – chars!

ABSOLUTELY

HANNAH KENNERLEY AND PHILIP AL-ANAZI

SOCIAL SIR MARK AND LADY THATCHER

CHRISTOPHER FIELD AND GUEST

FRIENDS OF ABSOLUTELY CHELSEA

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHELSEA

First birthdays are important events and we befittingly celebrated Absolutely Chelsea turning a year old at the Saatchi Mess Gallery. A host of friends sipped on cocktails and supped on delicious fare supplied by Rhubarb. Yumsters.

JULIEE LEE AND FRIEND

EDWARD BODENHAM, MAUREEN TADROS, DEBRAH DHUGGA AND TONY MCGEE

RUSHINA SHAH AND TAMAR FYNE

FIRST LADIES MEMBER

SISTERS ARE DOIN’ IT FOR THEMSELVES

To mark International Women’s Day, Maureen Tadros hosted a jolly drinks for First Ladies in DUKES Hotel. Internationally acclaimed fashion photographer, Tony McGee, shared his experience of shooting the world’s greatest beauties - from supermodels to Mother Teresa.

April_SOCIALS CHELSEA.USE.indd 33

28/03/2013 17:35

NU-LINE L

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TO CELEBRATE…

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Meal offer covers food to the value of £100, excluding drinks, valid for six months until 1 November 2013, when you spend £250 or more at Arthur Price in Harrods. Take a copy of this publication in store to take up the offer. Visit harrods.com for full terms and conditions. Competition closes on 1 July 2013, indicate in entry if you do not wish your details to be shared with a third part. Terms and conditions apply.

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24/10/2012 17:24 28/03/2013 19:07

TALES OF THE

TALISMAN As an exhibition dedicated to the Talisman Crown and the Talisman Wonder opens at Westfield, Absolutely sneaks a preview with the team at De Beers

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What was the inspiration behind the Talisman Crown? Hollie Bonneville Barden, Creative Designer The Talisman Crown (pictured, left) is the ultimate celebration of diamonds, revealed in all their natural beauty and rich variety. Diamonds are one of the wonders of the earth. I wanted to use the symbol of the crown alongside the symbol of the diamond, to celebrate the past, present and future, incorporating the brilliance of light.

Describe the various parts of its design and what they mean. The design of the crown is meant to signify the journey of time. Beginning with the awe-inspiring 73ct lustrous rough diamond, we showcase the natural beauty of it, as it was found, in its original, untouched state. This 73ct hero diamond has been held in the De Beers collection for many years and provides us with a powerful sense of the past. As your eye is drawn down the crown, the diamonds dissipate and are eventually replaced with open spaces. Whilst creating an amazing diffusion of light (through the array of cuts and coloured diamonds), we also allude to the present and future; the set diamonds signify our achievements to date, and the open space, tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aspirations.

What was the inspiration behind the Talisman Wonder? The Talisman Wonder (pictured, bottom left) was created to celebrate rough diamonds. Since ancient Egypt, these diamonds were the exclusive privilege of Kings and Queens and were said to protect, to bring good luck and prosperity. Before man discovered diamonds could be polished, their natural brilliance and innate character were especially prized. With the Talisman Wonder, we wanted to create a modernday treasure, celebrating the heritage of these gems.

How many diamonds were used to create it? We used 691 diamonds, totalling 271 carats. Amongst these were the centre rough diamond, which totals over 17 carats, 110 rough diamonds (totalling almost 160 carats) and 406 polished white baguettes (almost 50 carats). 34

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ART&CULTURE It took 10 years to collect all its rough diamonds. Was the design finalised before the diamond sourcing took place – or was it more of an ‘organic’ process; i.e. did the colours change according to what gems were found? Andrew Coxon, President of the De Beers Institute of Diamonds We started collecting for the Talisman Collection in 2001 but it was a slow process as most rough diamonds are not naturally beautiful and need polishing. Occasionally, we were surprised with a beauty, but that was very rare; only one diamond in 10,000 would be used and we looked at many parcels of rough diamonds. The very best and most exceptional were sometimes too big for the designs of the Talisman Collection. But they were too rare to let go of, so we bought them anyway, in the hope that we can use them in the future. The first time we saw The Talisman Wonder in its completed form, we marvelled at it. It was then that we understood why the Ancients wore rough diamonds, first of all as Talismans, to protect them from all evil and to save them from danger.

How was the white gold, which holds the Talisman Wonder together, hand-sculpted? The white gold is of the highest quality. Once it was cut, it was hand-sculpted into its smooth, elegant gradient using traditional techniques. The hand-mottled method gave it an extra layer of texture, which blended beautifully with the lustre of the rough diamonds.

Are different diamonds more appropriate for certain settings? David Watling, Head of Diamond Centre A diamond needs light to be able to reflect it internally (which gives it its sparkle). That’s why most of the settings leave the pavilion (bottom half of a diamond) open. However, some shapes work in a dissimilar way and reflect light differently to round brilliants. During the Art Deco movement, cushions and emeralds cuts were set in thick, heavy materials. But today cushion cuts, as well as emerald ones, are very popular because of their good surface reflection. There are no rules, however, as to which diamond goes with which setting. Obviously it’s down to the buyer’s personal taste.

What’s the best way to maintain your diamond? When you buy a diamond at De Beers, you can pop in store any time for a complimentary cleaning. For a quick clean at home, we advise doing it with a soft brush and soapy lukewarm water. To keep your diamond sparkly, avoid dust and grease, so do remove your ring when applying hand cream. In any case, we recommend a regular visit to the store for a full cleaning of the piece, as well as a check-up of the setting.

The exhibition of the Talisman Crown and the Talisman Wonder comes to the De Beers store at Westfield from 1-28 April. debeers.co.uk 35

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

A NEW START Are you stuck? W8’s Anamaya offers an intensive programme to help you move on

tress, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships, alcohol and the like - they can surround us, trap us, make us feel stuck. Do you wish to change, rid yourself of old habits, moods, behaviours? Are you tired of these feelings, tired of dealing with them in the same old unsatisfying ways? The Intensive at Anamaya is designed to help you ‘unstick’: a highly powerful combination of Psychotherapy, Neuromeditation and Bodywork, it will help open a path to a life that is more content, more serene and satisfying. Twenty Hours of private personal therapy over a six week period, tailored to suit you and your personal circumstances: no need to take time off work, no group sessions, just six weeks

of intensive personal work designed to help you unstick. The three components of the Intensive are included for how they combine and enhance each other - the combination of Psychotherapy, focused contemplation, and Bodywork all personally tailored for you is a powerful tool for change. All Psychotherapy sessions are with Talitha Stevenson, Neuromeditation and Bodywork with Graham Doke. The Intensive starts on 4 May: one two hour session of Psychotherapy and Neuromeditation, held on a Saturday or a Tuesday evening, and one 90 minute session of Bodywork held at your convenience during the week. All sessions are held at Anamaya in Kensington.

The Intensive a powerful tool for change

There are only ten places available, so early booking is essential. Call reception on 020 3011 0355 for details, or go to www.anamaya.co.uk

Be Beauty Located just off the Kings Road, Be Beauty supplies only the finest hair and beauty products. Ranging from the most popular brands to the best organic names, we have something to suit the whole family – as well as a number of luxurious, niche products if you’re looking for something new. So why not drop in, have a browse look around and indulge yourself.

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0207 998 3477 | www.bebeauty.co.uk | 59 Chelsea Manor Street, SW3 5RZ 36BEA BEAUTY.indd

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STYLE

Colourful

CLASH

Marc Jacobs SS13

Splash yourself with colour this April

1. MISSONI, PRINTED SILK BLEND PLAYSUIT, £435; HARVEYNICHOLS.COM 2. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, MAGENTA/YELLOW PLISSE MODAL SKULL SCARF, £325; ALEXANDERMCQUEEN.CO.UK 3. ALICE & OLIVIA, JACQUARD COTTON BLEND SHORTS, £170; HARVEYNICHOLS.COM 4. CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN, DUFOURA, £645; CHRISTIANLOUBOUTIN.COM 5. CAMILLA AND MARC GLASSHOUSE DRESS, £365; AUSTIQUE.CO.UK 6. TOPSHOP, FLORAL PIPED CROP TOP, £32; TOPSHOP.COM

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Vanilla Paris    

www.vanilla-paris.co.uk 122 King's Road, SW3 4TR020 7225 1822

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STYLE HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAHLING

Who wouldn’t want to celebrate their birthday on a lost weekend with the delicious Miss Dahl? Well, in honour of its twentieth, Brora has been cosying up to the super model/domestic goddess to collaborate on a collection of delectably dreamy lightweight lounge-y knits, hazy printed silks and romantic florals. A perfect marriage to celebrate Brora’s birthday; the Lost Weekend collection hits the shops on 15 April. We’re there! 6-8 Symons Street, SW3; brora.co.uk

FASHION

NOTES

by Violet Naylor-Leyland

HEADS UP

How to do

As someone who has not invested a lot of time or effort ornamenting their head, it takes quite something (or rather someone) to turn it... Pimlico-based milliner Laura Cathcart has done just that. Her exquisitely quirky eye for shape, detail, colour and texture, has resulted in a collection of unconventionally beautiful pieces. There is something magical about the fact each bespoke creation, while modern and highly finished, is also reminiscent of a by-gone era. Her S/S 13 range is the best yet, and with Ascot and the wedding season approaching, a new hat is in order.

FLUORO-CHIC Neons are big this season but it’s key not to look like you’ve just come from a party on Bora Bora beach. Trust Vivienne Westwood to make it wearable with this Anglomania lime short suit, featuring an ingenious fluorescent floral print. Tone down for the office by using them as separates – the jacket with white jeans and the shorts with a T-shirt – although to cut some serious chic on the polo pitch, team the full set with a wide brimmed hat, flouncy silk shirt and preen those pins in prep for killer sandals. Available at Worlds End, 430 Kings Road, SW10; viviennewestwood.co.uk

020 7823 6672; lauracathcart.com

BOUTIQUE~IN~BRIEF | BRUCE OLDFIELD COUTURIER | 27 BEAUCHAMP PLACE, SW3 THE IDEA:

For nearly 40 years this Knightsbridge-based couturier has been every British girl’s dream wedding dress designer. And he still is. His new season stuff is truly inspiring, exuding drama, movement and now-ness.

THE USP

Shopping how it should be. You arrive, you browse, you try on... whilst your long suffering other half drinks tea from ‘Bruce Oldfield’

china. But the real bonus is the standard of craftsmanship. Each piece is worked by several skilled hands, designed by someone at the top of their game, in fabrics you won’t find anywhere else in London.

THE BUY He may do the best ballgowns (pictured, left)

but we’re in love with his three-quarter sleeve bronze quilted organza coat. Price on request. 020 7584 1363

Violet is a stylist, journalist and owner of fancy dress and vintage boutique, Violet’s Box; violetsbox.com

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BALHAM

CHISWICK

www.indian-ocean.co.uk

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HARRODS

HAMPSTEAD

0800 111 4844

SELFRIDGES

info@indian-ocean.co.uk

07/03/2013 11:12

STYLE

DIAMONDS

IN THE BUFF 1

6 5

1. GRAFF, BABY SWAN WATCH, 71 HAND-SET DIAMONDS, 20CT SET IN WHITE GOLD, POA; GRAFFDIAMONDS.COM. 2. TIFFANY & CO, SOLESTE, £10,200; TIFFANY.COM. 3. DAVID MORRIS, 18CT WHITE GOLD ROSE-CUT DIAMOND SPIRAL BANGLE, 37.21CT, POA; DAVIDMORRIS.COM 4. ASPREY, FEATHER DOUBLE PENDANT, £16,500; ASPREY.COM. 5. BOODLES, BLOSSOM DIAMOND CUFF IN PLATINUM WITH 23.68CT DIAMONDS, POA; BOODLES.COM. 6. CHOPARD, DIAMOND FLORAL NECKLACE WITH DIAMOND FRINGE, POA; CHOPARD.COM. 7. DE BEERS, AURA PEAR SLEEPERS, WHITE DIAMONDS SET IN WHITE GOLD, £13,400; DEBEERS.COM.

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HOOKED ON

HOOKER British designer, Katherine Hooker, talks to Absolutely about clean cuts, dressing the Duchess and starting out in India

How did you get into designing? My transition into designing was accidental. Just before Katherine Hooker London was established, I was working as an interiors stylist creating sets for photo shoots and movies. I had been in the fi lm industry for 25 years and whilst I loved it, I wanted to pursue something on my own. On a break between films, I travelled to India with a suitcase of tweeds and a mission to replicate a young boy’s Hasidic coat that I found in a junk shop in Israel. I was in love with the fit and cut of it. The design inspired our first coat, the classic winter Braid. My friends adored it and so I began making pieces for them, and not long after, in 2004, I opened the shop in London.

Where did you train? I was never formally trained in design and I started out by working very closely with a village tailor in Kerala, India. We now have a talented design team with whom I work alongside to create both our readyto-wear and custom-made collections. How would you describe your style? Mainly casual. I like clean cuts and things I can throw together easily. However, it’s key for me to have some beautiful coats and jackets to smarten up my usual look. The Duchess of Cambridge wore one of your designs to the Order of the Garter Ceremony at Windsor in 2011. That must have been an exciting moment? Of course that was a really brilliant moment for us, we always enjoy seeing her in anything she orders. Did you custom-make the design for her? No, it’s one of our standard styles that anyone can own, but what we do is custom-make them - so they fit perfectly in a fabric of your choice. Many of our designs are available ready-to-wear. The wonderful thing about our clothes is that you look great, but still look yourself. You have a large celebrity following – from Taylor Swift to Jerry Hall – how important are celebrity endorsements? Celebrities certainly enhance the

visibility of our brand, but a Katherine Hooker customer tends to be a woman who is comfortable in her own style. And while they may reference a celebrity’s look, they won’t want to follow it to the letter. Seeing Taylor Swift or Meryl Streep in a Katherine Hooker coat may introduce a new customer to the brand, but any growth in our business comes down to our ongoing resilience and relevance for all our customers. What was your vision for this season? With the Spring/Summer 2013 collection, I was keen to emphasise a clean structure. I wanted to pare the designs right down (still with exquisite tailoring) but with a much more modern feel, and retain the signature Katherine Hooker dreaminess and romance. We have used some stunning new fabrics for the season that fit really well with this aesthetic. Where are your pieces made? All are handmade in London. For Ascot this year, what should we wear? Something simple and elegant. I recommend our Ascot or Buxton dress with a Tallulah or Buxton coat. Do you have a favourite design? I’m really excited about our new range of dresses. While I’m obsessed by perfecting the design of the jackets and coats, the aesthetic I aspire to with the new dresses is ‘dreamy and romantic’ – easy and comfortable to wear, but with gorgeous, luxurious materials.

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STYLE

Which designers do you admire? Ralph Lauren. He has managed to create a complete lifestyle brand, with products designed to fit a particular environment. His brand just works. I’m a big fan. I also admire Margaret Howell and Jil Sander who are continually timeless. Describe a day in your working life. Every day is different. If I am in London, I’ll wake up and walk the dog then head over to our office on Ashburnham Road. The day will typically consist of design sessions and meetings with the team. I also love the fact that I can pop upstairs to the shop during the day to talk to our customers. I also spend a lot of time in Patmos, Greece and New York. Last month we shot our Autumn/Winter collection in the States, which is really exciting. Was it easy to break into menswear? I have always been passionate about tailoring and so the transition into menswear came somewhat organically. Our first men’s collection launches next autumn and consists of one coat, the Nelson, and three jackets: the Classic, the Baseball and the Douglas. What have you got coming up this year? We have just launched the S/S 13 collection and have events planned throughout the year. Recently, Cheltenham Festival, our pop up in Soho, New York and a Special Occasion event at our Ashburnham Road shop. We have also just taken Katherine Hooker to South Africa for the first time. You can also see us at The Royal Highland Show, Burghley and Spirit of Christmas. katherinehooker.com 43

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28/03/2013 14:22

THE TRUE

COLOURS OF KAFFE Camilla Norton delves into the colourful world of premier craft artist, Kaffe Fassett

‘Colour is my medium,’ says Kaffe Fassett. ‘Don’t be afraid of colours.’

n the late 1960s, American-born artist Kaffe Fassett’s first handknitted design featured as a full page spread in Vogue Knitting Magazine. ‘It was a thrill to catch the eye of a mainstream publication,’ Kaffe tells me, ‘but now fashion has been in the colour doldrums for years. So many people follow its grey, beige and black lead.’ Looking at Kaffe’s designs in needlepoint, patchwork and knitting, I can’t help but agree; they are indeed the antithesis of the monochrome uniforms of today’s fashionistas. Kaffe was born in San Francisco in 1937. He was offered a scholarship to the School of the Museum of Fine Art in Boston at 19, but chose instead to immigrate to London where he has lived ever since. ‘Meeting Christopher Isherwood and reading his books about England filled me with a desire to see the

place for myself,’ he says. ‘I loved the Old World details and profiles of buildings: the colourful blooms in window boxes and parks, the corner shops, Covent Garden, vegetable markets, the Pearly King and Queens, Portobello Flea Market, and all the other markets that had such a Dickensian atmosphere.’ Kaffe’s attraction to traditional Britain and the old fashioned world significantly

‘Throughout his early years in London, Kaffe tells me he used to “haunt” the Victoria and Albert Museum’ influenced his work. ‘Much of my inspiration came from studying past design in many fields and reworking it for today’s mood,’ he says. Following a visit to a Scottish wool mill with fashion designer Bill Gibb in the late 1960s, he decided to work with yarn, making his first garment in Shetland Yarn from the Holm Mills in Inverness. Throughout his early years in London, Kaffe tells me he used to ‘haunt’ the Victoria and Albert Museum. Alongside

Bill, and with the support of fashion house, Missoni, Kaffe’s work rapidly progressed. His one-man exhibition at the V&A in 1988, for example, was the first ever for a living textile artist. A massive success, attendance figures for the museum doubled during the period and it was, at the time, the V&A’s second most successful exhibition. ‘I was amazed and delighted,’ Kaffe remembers, ‘but the whirlwind of consequential museum shows all over the world kept me too busy to dwell on it.’ Counting Barbra Streisand, Lauren Bacall and Shirley Maclain as fans – ‘celebrities are the most appreciative audience for me’ – Kaffe has also been widely acclaimed in Scandinavia, a country with a long tradition of working with textiles. ‘The Scandinavians can do what I do beautifully, so they totally understood me,’ he explains. ‘I loved their culture of beautiful decorative arts. My book, Quilts in Sweden, shot in the antique world of Skansen, in Stockholm, is testament to their beautiful old houses and interiors.’ Further afield, Kaffe has worked closely with Oxfam, helping weaving villages in India and Guatemala. Again, it is the traditional cultures which Kaffe

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found particularly inspiring. ‘I am always drawn to people who work with their hands to create something aesthetically pleasing. So it was a complete joy to work with professional crafts people who understood my thinking.’ Having mastered so many mediums, I wonder what his favourite might be. ‘I love them all,’ he says, ‘they have such different demands and results. Knitting and needlepoint are portable, so I can travel and get on with a complex project. Patchwork is quicker and more physical, and you can achieve a larger project fast. But I love to feel a piece of knitting growing on the needles or see a flower taking shape on canvas in needlepoint. Each has its charms and quiet excitement.’ I can see that it does and wonder why it is, as he says, that people are afraid to use colour. ‘People think there is something ‘to know’ about colour,’ he tells me. ‘They don’t remember or realize that some of the best colour is created by ‘uneducated’ Third World crafts people.’ His new exhibition, Kaffe Fassett: A Life In Colour, is now open at The Fashion and Textile Museum. Showcasing the development of Kaffe’s use of colour, on display will be ninefoot-wide knitted shawls, a ‘feeling’ wall for visitors to touch, and a fantastic collection of quilts. I, for one, cannot wait to see it, and revel further in the colourful career of this master of contemporary crafts.

EXHIBITION IMAGES (C) JAY MCLAUGHLIN; KAFFE FASSETT (C) KAFFE FASSETT STUDIO

ARTS&CULTURE

Until 29th June, Kaffe Fassett: A Life in Colour, Fashion and Textile Museum, 83 Bermondsey Street, SE1; ftmlondon.org / kaffefassett.com 46

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Wearing: Bespoke Corset. Made to your size and specification.

Bespoke Corset, made to your size and specification.

Wearing: Bespoke Corset. Made to your size and specification.

Luxury forthe the LuxuryLingerie Lingerie for discerning woman woman discerning Shop lingerie, bridal wear, bespoke corsetry, sleepwear and swimwear in-house or online.

Shop lingerie, bridal wear, bespoke corsetry, sleepwear and swimwear in-house or online. Call for a private appointment or event booking: 020 7352 7044 Call for a private appointment or event booking: 020 7352 7044

187 Kings Road, Chelsea SW3 5EB | www.petitsbisous.com

187 Kings Road, Chelsea SW3 5EB | www.petitsbisous.com PETITS BISOUS.indd 2

26/03/2013 12:55

Stocked in: Liberty, Peter Jones, John Lewis Oxford Street CREA CONCEPT.FINAL.indd 2

T: 020 7436 0631 28/03/2013 16:07

www.creaconcept.com CREA CONCEPT.FINAL.indd 3

28/03/2013 16:07

baby burn burn

Pain de Sucre set the beaches of Bali alight with their sizzling 2013 Swimwear Collection

Photographer: ERIC DENISET Stylist: CLARA PARTHONNAUD Hair & Make up Artist: WILLIAM BARTEL Model: MICHEA CRAWFORD

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MISHI £120

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PERLA £245

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NIKITA £135

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DUNIA £150

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SAMARRA, £135 SWIMWEAR 2013 COLLECTION AVAILABLE FROM PAIN DE SUCRE 192 KING’S ROAD, SW3; PAINDESUCRE.COM

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39 Kings Road, London, SW3 4NB Tel: +44 (0) 20 7259 9697 52 Brompton Road, London, SW3 1BW Tel: +44 (0) 20 7030 3922

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Basia Briggs

Photograph by

Aliona Adrianova

www.aliona.com ALIONA AD.indd 2

07568336427 25/03/2013 17:49

THE HAPPY

FAMILY Commercial Director of Jaques of London, Joe Jaques, talks to Edwina Langley about heritage, history and a billion hours of happiness

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‘I like telling people that my family invented Tiddley-Winks,’ says Joe Jaques, Commercial Director of sports and games company, Jaques of London. ‘It sounds so ridiculous.’ And indeed it does. But when you factor in that Jaques of London also invented Snakes & Ladders, Ludo and Happy Families, introduced Croquet to England and patented Ping Pong, it doesn’t sound all that ridiculous at all. When I arrived to meet Joe in The Goring Hotel (incidentally, another family run business) I was told he was running late, mainly because he was chatting to the doormen. ‘He knows everyone here,’ Victoria, his PR, had said, ‘and he likes to talk so he might be a while.’ I decided then and there that I liked him, a preconception confi rmed when he sat down, thanked me for meeting him, and suggested a coffee, ‘... or perhaps a drink?’ (reluctantly I opted for coffee). With his brown hair swept back, he exuded ‘suave,’ but his brightly coloured tie suggested buckets of character – which was very much the case and, as he launched into the colourful history of Jaques, it seemed very much a family trait too. In 1780 Thomas Jaques (the son of a farmer) ventured to London to make his fortune. Finding work as an apprentice to a bone and ivory turner, over the next fi fteen years, Thomas carefully learned his trade. By 1795, he was in a position to take over the business and thus, ‘Jaques’ marked its official beginning.

“MY GRANDFATHER SAID WE WOULD NOT HAVE GOT THROUGH THE WAR IF IT WASN’T FOR OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH MI9” John Jaques I, his son, partnered with him in later years. It was under John that chess champion of the decade, Howard Saunton, approached Jaques to design a standardised chess set. In 1849, the ‘Staunton Chess Set’ was released and such was its success, Jaques decided to focus their business entirely on the gaming industry. In 1862, the company wrote and published the fi rst official rules of Croquet and helped set up the Wimbledon Croquet Club. An instant hit, from there came numerous other games – Snap and Happy Families – all designed by the whacky inventor (and son of John Jaques I), John

Jaques II. A most notable invention of his, was a game called Gossimer; very popular amongst the Jaques family, the game failed to catch on commercially. Son of John Jaques II, John Jaques III (fairly confusing, all these Johns), decided to re-brand this family-loved game under a new title, ‘Ping Pong’. The game has flourished ever since. Not much is known about the company from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1930s, but records show that business boomed. During the Second World War, Jaques worked with MI9, the intelligence service tasked with aiding resistance fighters and recovering Allied

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OVER PAGE:JOHN JAQUES III. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: JAQUES CROQUET SET; JAQUES ESCAPE KIT; JAQUES HAPPY FAMILIES CARDS; JAQUES HALMA

troops. Under the guidance of intelligence mastermind, Christopher Clayton-Hutton, escape kits were sent to POWs, cleverly concealed inside classic Jaques games, such as chess sets, sent through rationing packs. ‘I’ve got 14 pages of items we supplied to POWs, of games that required ‘smashing’ to extract the escape kits,’ Joe says. ‘That was how we got through the war. We took a direct hit during the Blitz – our building in Hatton Garden was totally fl attened. But we were back up and running in just four months, and that was because we were connected to M19. My grandfather said we would never have got through the war if it wasn’t for that partnership. We had £2,500 worth of invoices to them in 1944, which was a decent amount of money in those days.’ After the war, the business relocated to Surrey and in 2000, to Kent, where it is found today. ‘My generation has bought back Happy Families,’ says Joe. ‘We created the notion of giant outdoor games, Giant Score Four, and we launched in America where we are doing nicely now. For us it’s about the re-introduction of well-known games, because we’re living in an age of nostalgia. Period and heritage brands are really appreciated today. When my father and uncle ran the business, they didn’t talk about their history. It wasn’t a big part of who they were and was generally thought of as a negative thing. Our generation are much prouder of it.’ It seems only fitting, therefore, that Jaques of London should carry on now as it has been, being passed down through generations of Jaques. ‘I’ve got a fivemonth-old daughter, Evie, and I would love nothing more than for her to carry on

the business. It’s a funny thought though – where is the line between wanting to create the level of desire in a child that makes them want to go into something, and pushing them so hard they don’t want to do it? I’d like to create something that is so special and amazing, that my children think ‘If I can become educated enough to be able to take it over, that would be great.’’ One hopes he is able to manage it, for there is something so endearing about this particular family story that makes one feel quite protective over it. Still, I find myself thinking it can’t be happy families all of the time... ‘On Christmas Day, after dinner, we get the games out

and there are huge arguments and lots of competitiveness. So no, not always happy families!’ he laughs. A BBC journalist recently asked Joe if he had any idea how many billions of hours of happiness his family had created. ‘It must be a lot,’ Joe contemplates. ‘And that’s what we want to do – carry on creating billions of hours of happiness.’ On that note, dear reader, do you play croquet?

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19/03/2013 15:37

MEN ONLY

STYLE

HUNT FOR A SHIRT In the 18th century, Thomas Pink designed the infamous hunting coat worn by the Master of Foxhounds, which later became known as ‘hunting pink’. Paying homage to this design, PINK has launched the Beaufort Shirt Collection, taking its name from the Duke of Beaufort’s hunt, The Beaufort. With patterns sourced from PINK archives, made using top UK craftsmanship, each of the ten styles – be they checked, striped or… pink – will leave you looking sportingly good. £135, 162b Sloane Street, SW1X, 020 7245 0202; thomaspink.com

WILD WEST

We love a good Western, so a drink which takes its name from the ancient paths formed through the American wilderness by migrating buffalo is something that captures our wild western imaginations. Buffalo Trace is a complex bourbon, made using undertones of vanilla, mint and molasses. A generous gulp gives a hit of sugar and a hint spice, and leaves an interesting aftertaste of liquorice. It’s warming, it’s dry and it’s definitely worth a try. £24.35, Waitrose, 402 North End Road, SW6, 020 7385 4566; waitrose.com

CLOCK THIS To celebrate the start of a three year engineering partnership with Formula 1 team Mercedes AMG Petronas, IWC has re-launched their Ingenieur collection. Inspired by the sport, these luxury watches are made of materials used in F1 – titanium, ceramic and carbon fibre. A must-have for motorsport aficionados, make sure you invest in yours this season. £10,150, Launching in the UK at IWC Boutique at Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1, 020 7730 1234; harrods.com/iwc.com

SPA REVIEW | BLUE HARBOUR SPA | WYNDHAM GRAND CHELSEA HARBOUR, SW10 I am not what you might call a modern man. Shaving and wearing deodorant are about the limit of my metrosexuality, whilst the last time I went to a Spa, it had an ‘R’ on the end and sold Baked Beans. But then I found myself arriving at the Blue Harbour Spa for a ‘Mens Fitness Facial’. The whole experience, from the Ginseng and Juniper face wash, to the rubbery algae mask, was a combination of the bizarre, the relaxing and the immensely pleasant. It was everything

I was expecting (right up to Morcheeba on the speakers), but I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. Louise, my charming masseuse, told me that half of her clients are men, with a large portion of them coming in for a Friday night pre-club spruce up… The world is a funny place indeed. Will I be back? Perhaps. Would I recommend it to some of my vainer friends? Absolutely. By Harry Harland. Men’s Treatments start from £55, 020 7300 5011; wyndhamgrandlondon.co.uk

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ART&CULTURE

Best known as member of enduring 1980s pop band Duran Duran, Chelsea resident, Nick Rhodes, talks to Andy Greeves about some of the less well-known creative projects that continue to fire the imagination of this style icon

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ick Rhodes, the only ever-present member of Duran Duran since the band was formed in 1978, is used to chart success. With 14 top ten singles in the UK, 21 in the Billboard Hot 100 Stateside, and more than 100 million albums sold worldwide – not to mention producing credits for the likes of Blondie and The Dandy Warhols – music has been his life. And at 50 years of age, there is no sign of a sea change either, even if he reserves the right to stray towards new avenues of artistic expression. Rhodes has recently released Bored With Prozac and The Internet? with former fellow band member Warren Cuccurullo, an album credited under the guise of ‘TV Mania’, that pulls together lost tapes which the duo worked on almost two decades ago. The music is, as you would expect, heavily influenced by samples from popular television entertainment, interlinked with dreamy soundscapes and confrontational splices of audio. He’s also back in the studio with Duran Duran recording their 14th album, working alongside Mark Ronson. But whilst he takes success in his stride, an exhibition (called Bei Incudi or Beautiful Nightmares) of 30 original photographs and prints, all taken and signed by Rhodes, has him in something of a fluster. ‘I do have those feelings of butterflies, and that’s pretty unusual for me,’ exclaims Nick Rhodes in reference to his

photographic images currently hung in a gallery space at record label, The Vinyl Factory, in Chelsea. ‘Photography has always been something that I’ve loved, but I haven’t been able to devote nearly as much time to it as I have wanted over the years, and I certainly haven’t done anything like this for a long, long time.’ Rhodes describes the collection as ‘spanning classic, fashion-style portraits, through to incredibly twisted abstract images.’ Certainly the caricatures (represented by Storm Modelling Agency’s Chloe Lloyd) strike you as

uniformed but also utterly unique. ‘That’s what I’ve tried to create,’ says Rhodes. ‘The caricatures are based on a character on the (TV Mania) album Bored With Prozac and The Internet?, who wants to be famous at all costs, whether it’s through fashion, music or film. The weird thing is that Warren and I created the album 17 years ago and it has been on

hold until now. In fact, who am I kidding? It’s been lost until now! Back then this notion of people wanting to be ‘famous for being famous’ was just taking off. Now it’s a common phenomena and it’s interesting to see that this character has lasted the test of time.’ Make no mistake, Rhodes is someone constantly craving inspiration. He’s a sponge, embracing surroundings and experiences. Previously, the outlet for this was largely music, but increasingly now, it seems photography is moving in. And being based in Chelsea since 1983, his locale is certainly one of his most profound influencers. ‘Chelsea is more than just shops and restaurants,’ he says. ‘The history is something that is very important, and the fact the area has intrinsic links to popular cultural scenes in the UK – the Swinging Sixties for example – isn’t something that should be missed in passing. The fact that Oscar Wilde once lived here and was scribbling away on Tite Street is something you can imagine to this day. Despite all the money, the place retains something very special – namely, a great atmosphere. ‘I love the fact that the streets around Chelsea look so different and have their own unique characters. And we’ve got trees here! That’s pretty rare in certain London boroughs. And having the river on your doorstep is lovely too. If offers openness and a feeling of energy, and yes, inspiration.’ Due to parking restrictions around his home, Rhodes doesn’t own a car, opting to get around the capital on foot. You’ll often see him in bookshops in and around the King’s Road – ‘second hand books are something of an addiction of mine,’ – or in art galleries.

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IMAGES: (C) NICK RHODES

ART&CULTURE

“I do have those feelings of butterflies, and that’s pretty unusual for me” ‘The arts scene in London is fantastic... you couldn’t ask for better museums, many of which are free to enter,’ he says. ‘It gives me a great deal of pleasure going to the Tate Modern, Tate Britain, The Royal Academy and others. Some of the smaller galleries offer something even bigger in impact, too – it’s not all about the size; it’s about the atmosphere, particularly those over in Whitechapel. ‘I get asked a lot, “What’s next for you?” I can only reply by reminding them that ‘next’ is ‘now’. We’re already at ‘next’, so don’t let it pass you by.’ TV Mania’s Bored With Prozac and The Internet? is available as a digital download via The Orchard/Beatport, or as a pair of deluxe box sets through The Vinyl Factory; vinylfactory.com 67

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WILD

CAT Following the sensational You Tube clip which went viral in 2008, John Rendall recalls the heart warming story of Christian the Lion, the cub he raised in Chelsea and released into the wild in Kenya

When I arrived in London from Australia in 1969, there was one landmark I was desperate to see – Harrods. I went with an old university friend – Anthony ‘Ace’ Bourke – and we ambled around the shop, until we got to the zoo on the second floor. There we found ourselves face to face with two beautiful lion cubs, both about two and a half months old. I was staggered. They were on sale as ‘The Christmas present for the person who has everything.’ Well, we had just arrived from Australia and had nothing! Ace and I thought it would be great to take them.

At the time, Harrods were interviewing for potential buyers. People criticise the store for selling them, but they weren’t breaking the law in those days and they were very responsible about it. The lions were not out all the time and they were exercised up on the roof. But as we got to know them, it became clear we could not cope with both, so we opted for the male – a zoo-bred lion from Ilfracombe in Devon. The cub was originally named ‘Marcus’, but we changed it to ‘Christian’. I can’t remember the exact reason, but there has always been an association between lions

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ABOVE: GEORGE ADAMSON WITH CHRISTIAN

ART&CULTURE

and Christianity, and it’s not like we were going to call him ‘Aslan’ or anything. We set up an arrangement, which Harrods approved of, and Christian moved in to World’s End, Chelsea, where I still live today. Back then I was working in a shop called Sophisticat, which was huge, and we gave Christian the basement floor to himself (it had windows). There, he had his toys and a rolled up mattress he used to drag around. There was also a huge kitty litter tray for him to use, though he was very clean. Lions are immaculate animals. He slept down there too, sometimes up to

15 hours a day, which I suppose was the only unnatural thing we allowed him to do (lions, of course, usually hunt at night). The story was that the two of us raised him, but it was more than that. We had a team of people to help, which was fantastic because we accidentally stumbled on a formula that worked. If he was awake, someone was with him. We used to exercise him in Moravian Close. The churchyard nearby is walled and the vicar, Reverend Williamson, very kindly agreed that we could take him there. In terms of food, he was handfed four meals a day: two liquid meals (baby food, like Complan, Farex, raw eggs and calcium) and two meat meals (bone meal and bone marrow, which I got from the butchers). We have photographs of him walking down the King’s Road, but we only did that very occasionally. He didn’t like being on a lead and it was too distracting for other people. In all the time we had him (nine months) there’s not one photograph of him with his ears flattened, where he was gnarly or frightened. He was a very happy little lion, but we knew it was only a temporary arrangement. We discussed giving him to Longleat when he got too big, but then the opportunity arose to take him to George Adamson in Kenya. George was in the process of rehabilitating a male lion called Boy, and he thought introducing Christian to the training programme would be beneficial for them both. Everyone knew George from the book Born Free, which his wife had written about releasing their lioness, Elsa, back into the wild. George said he had no idea if it would be successful with Christian. Elsa had been born wild in Africa, so she knew the smells of the continent, but Christian was a fifth generation zoo-bred lion from Devon! When we arrived in Kenya, George saw Christian, Ace and myself, and thought we were all far too hairy for his liking (we had long hair which was all the rage in the seventies and Christian had a winter coat). But George could see how much Christian loved us, and said there and then, ‘I think it’s going to work out.’

When we set out to drive up to Kora National Park, which was the land that George had leased to rehabilitate Christian and Boy, we stopped along the way because I knew Christian wanted to go to the loo. George said, ‘If you let him out here, we’ll never catch him.’ I said, ‘Mr Adamson, he is not going to run anywhere.’ So we stopped, and in the searing heat, Christian jumped out to do his business. After that I said, ‘Ok, back in.’ He rushed straight back to the car. George turned around and said, ‘That is quite remarkable. You can call me George.’ We stayed with them for a week or two, just so we could be sure that Christian had a chance to get used to his new environment. He lost his coat, his paws toughened up very quickly, and he was successfully introduced to the other lion, Boy. We could see that George was totally entranced by him, and he was totally entranced by George. It was time to go. Over the next few months, I corresponded with George, and after a year, we decided to go out to visit. George warned us that Christian was now wild, the head of his own pride, and therefore might not remember us. We wanted to go all the same. When we landed, George said, ‘Christian arrived yesterday, he knew you were coming.’ We went out the following morning. George told us to wait at the bottom of a hill whilst he went over the bough to get Christian. As the lion came down, you could see him looking, thinking, ‘Who are these people?’ George then told us to call him, which we did, and that’s when he started to run… People often ask if we were frightened he was going to attack us. Not for one moment. We knew his body language and could hear him calling; we knew he recognised us. The only danger was that he was running towards us at 30mph, and we had to brace ourselves so he didn’t knock us over. But it was a beautiful moment as he leaped up to greet us, accompanied by his lionesses. Who are humans? Who are lions? It was a wonderful coming together. We went back to visit again in 1972, by 69

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ART&CULTURE

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: JOHN RENDALL WITH LION, MUGI, AT KORA NATIONAL PARK 2013; CHRISTIAN IN CHELSEA; JOHN RENDALL AND ACE BOURKE REUNITE WTH CHRISTIAN

which point Christian was three years old. That is the point where a lion in a normal pride would be kicked out by his father, so we knew the time was coming where he’d probably move on. He was just as friendly, but much more mature. We could see he had some serious lion business to get on with. That was the last time we saw him. A couple of months after that, he disappeared forever. George could hear him roaring, and he knew he had been mating, but he never came back to camp again. Thankfully there were never any reports of him being poached by local people (he was a ‘famous’ lion and people would have bragged) so we’re pretty certain he lived a full life. We are often asked if we wanted to know what happened to him. We always say we don’t. He went wild and we couldn’t be happier about that. But the story doesn’t end there. When we took Christian to Kenya in 1970, there were some 300,000 lions in Africa, 30,000 in Kenya. Due to poaching and loss of habitat there are now just 30,000 lions in the whole of Africa – less than 2,000 now, in Kenya. These are devastating statistics.

We very much hope that Christian – and the You Tube clip (over 100 million views) – will inspire people to protect this wonderful species, so the story of our little lion can live on. Please give generously to Tusk Trust, 01747 831 005; tusk.org.uk, and the George Adamson Foundation; georgeadamson.org

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FULL PAGE.indd 2

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Louise Parker and her team deliver programmes across London. Contact them on 0800 084 2828 or info@louiseparker.uk.com 2 Eaton Gate SW1W

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Not just This Morning... but every morning

Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law and resident family law expert on ITV’s This Morning. Leading the UK’s largest dedicated family law firm, she has more than 30 years’ experience handling divorce cases and family law proceedings.

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Located in WC1, Stowe Family Law specialises in family law issues and covers a wide range of cases. From divorce to cohabitees’ rights, with dedicated international and children’s teams. The team also offers mediation, arbitration and collaborative approaches and benefits from a specialist in-house forensic accountancy department that tracks down hidden assets and can provide immediate financial advice.

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INTERIOR

INSPIRATIONS GOOD WOOD

One’s home is so familiar to us, that sometimes adding something as simple as a bowl or a cushion to a room can lift it immeasurably. Joanna Wood on Pimlico Road is excellent for this. A treasure trove of interior goodies, the Red Flower cushion (£95), the Clematites Candy Box (£67) or a display of Cacao Square plates (£39, pictured) would undoubtedly give your drawing room a fresh, seasonal boost. 48a Pimlico Road, SW1, 020 7730 5064; joannawood.co.uk

WINE HOUSE

It’s all very well storing wine in a cupboard – out of sight, away from prying eyes – but in the absence of a cellar, it’s apt for finer wines to own a finer home. Enter David Linley’s bespoke Architectural Wine Cabinets. Designed in association with the Antique Wine Company, these show-stopping pieces are not only fun and impressive, but are guaranteed to wow any guests dropping in for a nightcap. Enquire at LINLEY Belgravia, 60 Pimlico Road, 020 7824 7216; davidlinley.com

MIRROR, MIRROR

Add a chic twist to your hallway with this exquisite Italian painted, guilded mirror in the Renaissance style (c. 1950). Ideal for last minute make-up checks before dashing out to face the elements. 80cm high x 63cm wide, £500, Ebury Trading Limited, 7 Ebury Bridge Road, SW1, 020 7881 0881; eburytrading.com

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LONDON

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INTERIORS

get the

LARGE TOYBOX

The hand-painted toybox (with safety hinged lid) is an heirloom gift that can be passed down from generation to generation. It includes a finger cut-out safety feature and brass handles on both sides. Ideal for dressing up clothes, toys, board games, bed linen or towels. £899

LOOK

LARGE INVITATION BOARD

Covered in any Dragons fabric, this invitation board enables children to display party invites, rosettes and other useful cards. Ribbon-bound so no pins necessary. £135

Dragons of Walton Street show us how to get the look of this adorable children’s bedroom

DEMI-PEDESTAL DESK

Perfect for when your little ones start growing up, especially when they bring home mountains of homework! This multi-purpose desk (also used as a dressing table) is a key piece for any room. £1,425

CHAISE LONGUE

Very on-trend at the moment, the chaise longue has been a firm Dragons favourite for more than 30 years. The sturdy wooden frame shows off pretty wooden feet. £1,795

SLEIGH BED

Our artists’ favourite bed. The curved ends of this piece provide the perfect platform to show off the famous Dragons brush-strokes. Luxury is combined with practicality; with a trundle underneath (sold separately) it’s perfect for sleepovers. £2,295 All products available from Dragons of Walton Street, 23 Walton Street, SW3, 020 7589 3795; dragonsofwaltonstreet.com APR_GET THE LOOK.indd 83

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REDEFINING KITCHENS SINCE 1908 eggersmann london, 555 kings road, london sw6 2eb  0207-371-8800  sales@eggersmannlondon.com

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THE HISTORY BEHIND

THE HOSPITAL In anticipation of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show next month, interior architect and author Tim Gosling details the history behind its grand location, the Royal Hospital Chelsea

THE OBELISK Now the centre point of the marquee during the Chelsea Flower Show, the Obelisk was erected in 1853 in memory of the 225 members of the 24th Regiment who fell fighting the Sikhs at the 1849 Battle of Chillianwala.

THE GROUNDS

Many eminent architects have contributed to the construction of the much-loved Royal Hospital, Chelsea. Sir Christopher Wren was the presiding genius responsible for the majority of work completed in 1692. Sir John Vanbrugh designed the Orangery (now the Library and Roman Catholic Chapel) for Sir Robert Walpole in around 1725, and following him, Robert Adam (Clerk of Works from 1765 – 1792) installed the sash windows and remodelled many of the interiors. Sir John Soane took over as Clerk of Works from 1807-1837 and added the Infirmary building, as well as the Stables, to the west of the site in 1809.

THE CHAPEL Barely altered, the Chapel is a magnificent example of Wren’s pure ecclesiastical work, undertaken with few constraints: an austere rectangle filled with light, under a soaring barrel vault. Similarly, the Figure Court and the South

The extensive grounds of the Hospital were landscaped by Wren, and in those days, ran right down to the river with two, 40-foot canals on either side. Until the late Victorian times, the pensioners cultivated plots of land in the Hospital grounds. On Sundays, over 140 of the little gardens opened to sell posies of flowers to the public. Nowadays the grounds and courtyards of the Hospital are open to the public every day, and various parts of the buildings are accessible at more specific times. Terrace are all Wren’s original work – the benches and panelling of the colonnade date from 1688, and the double columns, joined at the base, figure nowhere else in Wren’s overture. Until 1824 it was along this colonnade that food had to be hurried from the adjacent kitchens into the Great Hall, as there was no connecting inside doorway. The Latin inscription above the colonnade was apparently composed by Wren himself, and translates as ‘For the succour and relief of veterans broken by age and war, founded by Charles II, enlarged by James II and completed by William and Mary in the year of Our Lord, 1692.’

THE UNIFORM The pensioners’ uniform has remained almost unchanged – scarlet coats in the summer and navy blue in the winter with a peaked Shako (tricornes on dress occasions).

DID YOU KNOW… The statue of King Charles II, which stands in the Figure Court of the Hospital, was commissioned from Grinling Gibbons by Tobias Rustat in 1682 (though probably made by Arnold Quellin, or another Low Country sculptor, for £500). Rustat was a senior

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: TIM GOSLING (C) HUGO BURNAND; CHRISTOPHER WREN CHAPEL FROM ORGAN LOFT (C) PETER DAZELEY; (C) CITYSCAPE DIGITAL LTD

ARCHITECTURE

Royal Servant, ‘a very simple, ignorant but honest and loyal creature.’ The statue is thought to have originally stood in the precincts of Whitehall, but following the death of the King in 1685, it was transported to the Royal Hospital. From the Great Hall, it went to the Figure Court, where it has stood since 1692. The statue itself shows the King as a Roman general, holding a baton as a sign of imperial authority, without his customary wig and moustache. Originally gilded, it was bronzed in 1782, but re-gilded in 2002, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee. Rustat commissioned a similar statue of James II in Roman armour, which is now outside the National Gallery. On Founder’s Day (29 May) the pensioners, wearing their traditional tricorne hats, decorate the statue with oak leaves. This is to commemorate the day after the disastrous 1651 Battle of Worcester, where King Charles II hid in an oak tree to escape his pursuers.

Furniture designer and author, Tim Gosling, published London Secrets: A Draughtsman’s Guide, a celebration of the kaleidoscopic Capital. In association with

Getty Images. RRP £20. To donate to The Chelsea Pensioners Appeal, text RHCP01 to 70070 with the amount, or visit: chelsea-pensioners.co.uk 87

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SOCIALISING IN

SOHO Georgie Lane-Godfrey gets to grips with the fruity language of Michelin-starred chef, Jason Atherton

Naughty Jason! Disappearing without telling his PA where he’s going and keeping us waiting! I know, I know, they triple booked me. I have certain things I have to do every day, like go to the gym – I started going about two and a half years ago and I lost two stone in weight. I’m a much better person to be around. Have you heard the saying ‘Never trust a skinny cook’? Of course I’ve heard it and I think it’s complete [expletive]. You live in Balham. What do you like about it? It’s just a really nice place to live and there are good schools for my children. Until I moved there, I lived in town as a single guy and I felt like I didn’t have any roots. Now, I’ve got a family, a Waitrose and a little butchers – I have a life.

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FOOD&TRAVEL Do you run around Balham then? Yes. Do you ever bump into Michel Roux Jr.? He’s a keen runner too. No, sometimes I bump into Marcus [Wareing] and Chris Corbin when he’s walking his dogs, but I’ve never bumped into Gordon [Ramsay] since I’ve left. Of course, you’ve worked with Gordon Ramsay before haven’t you? Ten years! What was that like? Amazing. Really? You say that with such contempt! No, no, but tell me truthfully – has he ever made you cry? No, of course not. But we’ve had stern words and I’ve had my arse kicked, that’s for sure. Did he make your language more fruity? No. All chefs’ language is fruity at some point. I’m just a very direct person. I don’t suffer fools. I have no time in my life for people who waste their energy. If someone comes to work for the group and they don’t want to put the time in, I just ask them to leave straight away. I’m not interested. Go on then, give me the spiel behind your new restaurant, Social Eating House. I open restaurants because I love it, but I leave the running of them to the Head Chefs. With Social Eating House, it’s the same. Yes, I design the menu with the chefs, but the bottom line is I can’t be cooking everywhere. That’s why its not called ‘Social Eating House by Jason Atherton’. I’m not a big fan of calling restaurants after your name. It’s a load of [expletive]. It’s just a restaurant. Is it your favourite one so far? It’s different. Pollen Street Social is my baby. It’s like my eldest daughter. I read that you ran away from home at 16. Is that true? Yes. I came to London without my parent’s permission to follow my dream to become a top chef. I just worked really

hard and for a long period of time. I’m still not there yet. I’m only 41, I’ve got a long way to go. You pitched up at Ferran Adria’s three Michelin-starred restaurant, El Bulli, with a backpack and got work. True or false? True. In 1998, I slept on the beach the first night I got to Barcelona, as I didn’t have a hotel room. I begged Ferran for a job and he said no. But I carried on begging and eventually he let me work there – for 12 very happy months. So how did you feel when it closed? I think it was the right thing for him to do. It could only stay the number one restaurant in the world for so long, and after that what else can you do? You’ve worked with many inspirational chefs – who was most influential? Every chef I worked with left a mark of some description. Overall though, I would have to say Gordon. I spent a decade working with him. How important do you think TV appearances are? As a chef, they are neither here nor there, but as a businessman, they are crucial. When I do Saturday Kitchen, my phone rings off the hook.

What’s your best TV experience so far? I like all of it. I only do Saturday Kitchen, Great British Food Revival and Great British Menu. I only film two out of 52 weeks a year. What food could you never get bored of eating? Bread. I try to keep it out of my diet for fitness reasons but I absolutely love it. What’s your number one ingredient? Pork. Every little bit of pork. Which of your awards means the most? My Michelin star, getting 9/10 in The Good Food Guide 2013, and the Catey Chef Award 2012 – a dream to come true. Social Eating House opens this month, 58 Poland Street, W1; socialeatinghouse.com Pollen Street Social, 8 Pollen Street, W1; pollenstreetsocial.com 89

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RESTAURANT

REVIEW

Catherine Hales, Sofia Lloyd and Venetia Walker put Chelsea’s family restaurants through their paces

BLUE ELEPHANT

This charming Thai restaurant manages to balance a child friendly atmosphere with a sophisticated menu. No compromise is made on the authenticity of the food and children are accommodated (rather than pandered to), with face-painting on Sundays and Blue Elephant colouring pads and crayons up for grabs. Its decor is reminiscent of an imperial palace, festooned with bejewelled elephants and over-stuffed cushions. But Thailand’s culinary traditions is its main focus. And so, onto the food... Our first course was excellent – a satay of mixed strips of grilled British buffalo and marinated free-range chicken, accompanied by homemade peanut sauce and cucumber salad. The chicken was scrumptiously tender and the sauce perfectly sweet. Next came the Koong Phad Cha Black Truffle, a creation of Chef Nooror, consisting of

stir fried giant tiger prawns with Thai garlic and bird’s eye chilli, served with fresh egg noodles, flavoured with black truffle oil. This unusual blend of flavours went down a treat. My companion opted for the Crab Curry with Betel Leaves, a Phuket speciality of yellow curried crab with wholewheat noodles. This dish is rather hot, but can be toned down if required. My companion declared it to be ‘exceptionally fresh’, as if it had jumped straight from ocean to plate. After that we were stuffed, but decided to squeeze in the Ginger Crème Brûlée anyway. An exceptionally good decision on my part, for it was grilled perfectly and positively ‘zinged’ with ginger. A truly excellent experience, Blue Elephant pushes the boundaries of originality but retains all authenticity of traditional Thai cuisine. I’d bring the kids here any day. By Catherine Hales. The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf, SW6, 020 7751 3111; blueelephant.com

BEAUFORT HOUSE

As many parents might agree, it can be tricky finding good places to eat out with little ones in tow. However, my friend (also a Mum) and I, were pleased to find that Beaufort House turned out to be exactly that. The lunch menu was full of very tempting options. We enjoyed the Crab Linguini and the House Fish Pie, with a side of creamed spinach. Both mains were fantastic and generously portioned; there is certainly no scrimping here! The fish pie was creamy and comforting, with plenty of fresh fish and a lovely cheesy topping, and the linguini was well-seasoned and simply brimming with crab. We followed these with excellent coffees – essential caffeine for any mum with young children. The staff were very patient and helpful, more than happy to provide high chairs, rearrange tables to make way for prams, and were relaxed about a messy toddler ‘dropping’ food on the floor. Our little ones were too young for the children’s menu, but this also looked excellent. If I had to criticise, I would say the changing room – full of high chairs and boxes – was difficult to access. However, as a choice for lunch or brunch with the family, the food and atmosphere at Beaufort House could not be faulted and I will definitely be going back. By Sofia Lloyd. 354 Kings Road, SW3, 020 7352 2828; beauforthousechelsea.co.uk

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FOOD&TRAVEL

BENIHANA

A restaurant and entire style of dining that not only accepts children but positively encourages their presence, Benihana has marked itself out as the pinnacle of family dining. On arrival, we are welcomed warmly and beckoned into a waiting area, where any potential grumbling about the delay in being seated is extinguished by the upbeat atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The

LA FAMIGLIA

Alvaro Maccioni’s family restaurant, La Famiglia, has long held a special significance for my own family. Having dinner there as a child was a treat, a place where birthdays were celebrated and exam results commiserated. And so it was with a feeling of excitement, that I returned after some years with the newest part of my family, my husband. Resisting the urge to refer to him A. A. Gill-style as ‘the bearded brunette’, he said it immediately sold itself as everything you’d want from an Italian restaurant: photograph-lined walls and a warm, intimate atmosphere. Best of all, the food was just as good as I remembered. For starters, Mozzarella in Carozza (rich with a perfectly picquant tomato sauce) and a Warm Octopus and

whimsical chairs and magnificent rope chandelier are enough to prevent even the adults from complaining, and keep my eight-year-old companion wideeyed and completely distracted. Once we were seated, the service proceeded at incredible speed. Our chef David, who had honed his expert Teppanyaki skills in Texas, instantly put us at ease with his laidback manner and friendly conversation. He utterly charmed my young friend by asking questions and

really listening to the answers, making the slightly awkward situation of having someone cooking your food right in front of you a pleasure rather than an ordeal. One of the most entertaining aspects of this form of dining is how often things are flung into the air – utensils are juggled, food is tossed and perfectly aimed butter lands smackbang into bowls of rice. The colourful children’s menu comes equipped with a chef’s hat and a list of non-alcoholic fruit cocktails, including a ‘Strawberry Kiss’. This was sweetly garnished with a strawberry, cut into the shape of a pair of lips, which my eight-year-old fellow diner informed me makes one feel very grown up. The children’s chopsticks are also joined at the end making them much easier to manoeuver. On the chef’s recommendation we order the Hibachi Miso Black Cod, which was succulent and tender and accompanied a vast quantity of egg fried rice that contained just the right balance of flavours. We ended our meal in true decadent fashion with fabulous ice cream and a Chocolate Pyramid, which is as indulgent as it sounds, and left both child and I alike, with sleepy, contented smiles plastered over our faces. An exceptionally jolly and fun way to eat out with the children, I’m honestly not sure who enjoyed it more. By Catherine Hales. 77 King’s Road, SW3, 020 7494 2525; benihana.co.uk

Squid Salad (summer on a plate). The stand out dishes though were the main courses. My husband, a self-professed mushroom obsessive, ate his Funghi Risotto in reverent silence until the plate was wiped clean. On recommendation, I had the Roasted Rabbit, which was fragrant with rosemary and garlic, served with a luxurious red wine sauce. Feeling not a little full, we were still tempted by the Tiramisu, which was perfect to share – not too overpowered by coffee and beautifully light. If you’re after warmth and a glorious taste of Tuscany, La Famiglia is the place to go. For me, the glowing memories of my family past have been thoroughly exceeded by the experience of the present. By Venetia Walker. 7 Langton Street, SW10, 020 7351 0761; lafamiglia.co.uk

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FOOD&TRAVEL DELIZIOSO ELISTANO

If ‘Linguine with Clams, Mullet Roe and Cherry Tomatoes’ sounds up your street or ‘Braised Chicken Breast with Marsala sauce and sautéed Button Mushrooms,’ is order of the day, book a table at Elistano. With a new team in place, headed by Classic Italian Head Chef, Daniele Urbani, this Chelsea eatery has upped its game in spades. For a quick trip to Italy, look no further. 25-27 Elystan Street, Chelsea Green, SW3, 020 7584 5248; elistano.com

Food NOTES STEAMED WILD ALASKA SALMON WITH CHILLI BLACK BEAN SAUCE

PALMS O’CLOCK

SERVES 4 4 X 150g fillets wild Alaska salmon SAUCE: 4 tsp garlic black bean sauce 4 tsp Guilin garlic chilli sauce 2 tsp sugar 1 tsp sesame oil 1 tsp light soy sauce 2 tsp Shaoxing wine 1/8 tsp ground white pepper ½ tsp cornstarch GARNISH: deep fried shredded ginger 1. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl 2. Place the wild Alaska salmon fillets in a steaming tray, flesh side up 3. Divide the sauce evenly between the fillets and steam for 4-5 minutes, or until the flesh turns opaque 4. Place a fillet of salmon onto a plate and spoon over some of the steaming juices 5. Garnish with a little deep fried shredded ginger, and serve with plain steamed rice and green vegetables

IN THE DEEP SOUTH

‘Jambalaya, craw fish pie, fillet gumbo…’ this is what we sung in our heads when we heard about Jambalaya, an exciting pop up at The Jam Tree. Executive chef James Browne has travelled extensively in New Orleans to bring to Chelsea such delights as ‘Blackened Creole Hanger Steak’ and ‘Momma’s Southern Fried Chicken’. We’re not quite sure who Momma is, but we’re certain her recipe is lip-smackingly good. So long diet, we’re tucking in. 16-28 April, Jam Tree Chelsea, 541 King’s Road, SW3, 020 3397 3739; thejamtree.com

If 5 o’clock is drinks o’clock for you, then take yourself off for PrimeTime at The Palm Bar. Running from 5pm til late every day of the week, PrimeTime serves PrimeBites and cocktails for the price of… the hour. From 5-6pm pay £5 per cocktail or snack, 6-7pm pay £6, and so on. The Spiced Cucumber Collins is our spring aperitif of choice, whilst the Mini Broiled Crabcakes and the Nova Scotia Lobster and Bacon Fondue sounds most appetising. Surf and turf of an evening, anyone? It’s time to get down there. 1-3 Pont Street, SW1X, 020 7201 0710; thepalm.com

DID YOU KNOW… ON APRIL FOOLS DAY 1957, THE BBC BROADCAST A THREE MINUTE REPORT ABOUT A SOUTHERN SWISS FAMILY HARVESTING SPAGHETTI FROM ‘SPAGHETTI TREES’. IT HAS SINCE BEEN NAMED THE GREATEST HOAX BY A NEWS ESTABLISHMENT IN HISTORY. 93

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FOOD&TRAVEL

THE HOTEL The photographs from my long weekend in Edinburgh belie the gloomy, rain-sodden stereotype of the Scottish capital. Each one is positively sunkissed with clear blue skies covering the vast city; highlighting the Gothic architecture, green spaces and even a glimpse of the sea on the horizon. In truth, I’d been flukey with my chosen weekend, and it made the views from my deluxe room at the recently renovated Caledonian Hotel that bit more special. Following on from a whopping £24 million investment, The Caledonian is an impressive new addition to the Waldorf Astoria portfolio. Originally built in 1903 as a railway hotel, the grand building pays homage to its glamorous Victorian roots – think marble floors, sweeping staircases and Murano glass chandeliers.

THE CALEDONIAN HOTEL

EDINBURGH THINGS TO DO DINING

Despite Edinburgh’s wealth of diverse restaurants, it’s tempting to stay within the walls of The Caledonian, especially once you’ve sampled the delights of the stylish Caley Bar. There are two restaurants, with Michelin-starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin at the helm; the Galvin Brasserie de Luxe, which is a nod to urban Parisian bistros, and The Pompadour, which is as opulent as its name suggests. We whiled away a surreal four hours with ease, enjoying the divine five-course taster menu of French haute cuisine and Scottish favourites, each paired with a finely matched wine.

THE BEDROOMS

All the rooms are decorated elegantly with neutral colours and fitted with luxury mod-cons, though each differs in layout. The decor is beautifully paired back and rightly so, for nothing competes with the stunning views.

There are plenty of things to do in the city to occupy a long weekend. Five minutes away from the castle is the eccentric Camera Obscura and Museum of Optical Illusions, which is a surprising delight that will entertain both adults and children alike. Another must is the Edinburgh ghost tour. Mercat’s Hidden and Haunted walk takes you into Edinburgh’s historic and downright terrifying underbelly; the infamous Blair Street Underground Vaults. The selection of whiskies at the Caley Bar afterwards will serve as a welcome nightcap to steady your nerves.

GETTING THERE

British Airways offer two nights at The Caledonian Hotel from £295 pp incl return British Airways fl ights from Heathrow for travel. Visit ba.com/edinburgh or call 0844 4930758, thecaledonianedinburgh.com; visitscotland.com/natural 95

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28/03/2013 21:04

LAND OF

MILK AND HONEY Gabriel Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Rourke discovers a clash of cultures in the vibrant city of Beirut

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PREVIOUS PAGE AND THIS PAGE: BYBLOS

ear mention of Lebanon and you may think of clubs, bars and restaurants in the capital, Beirut. Or perhaps you picture Mediterranean beaches towered over by ancient ruins. Skiing may also come to mind, and looming behind it all you may think of buildings reduced to rubble from the civil war that gripped the country from 1975 to 1990. The fact is that Lebanon is a melting pot of all the above, and much, much more. Thankfully times of turmoil are now fading into memory, and Beirut is booming – as Alain Feghaly, our tour guide, so aptly puts it, ‘buildings here are springing up like mushrooms’. It’s a five-hour flight from London to Beirut and on arrival we are greeted in style. Forget a driver with your name on a placard, The Phoenicia greets its guests

before they have a chance to mingle with the masses, welcoming them after luggage collection with a red carpet and their name displayed on a TV screen. The transfer (in a white Jaguar I might add) takes less than 15 minutes and within an hour of landing on Lebanese soil we are lounging by the pool bar, Amethyste, nibbling on meze and sipping cocktails. The Phoenicia is not one of Alain’s ‘mushrooms’, rather it is a gem from Lebanon’s golden era, the Swinging Sixties, when the country became known as the ‘Switzerland of the Middle East’ and its capital the equivalent of Paris. Royalty, world leaders and celebrities (from Brigitte Bardot in the sixties to Angelina and Brad more recently) have graced the pillows of its 446 rooms, some of which have an opulent oriental feel, others have lighter French décor. Columns line Amethyste, softened by white linen drapes creating a colonial-cumGrecian feel. Super yachts line the marina below and a large projector screen hangs at one end of the swimming pool playing blackand-white classics.

Our first day starts as all good holidays should, with an enormous buffet breakfast. The Phoenicia’s Mosaic Restaurant does a breakfast from heaven with different chefs serving different food behind different counters. There’s everything from typical Lebanese pastries and breads, to eggs, fish, cheese, croissants, yoghurt and fresh fruit. Wondering if we’ll ever feel the twinge of hunger again, we follow Alain down the grand marble staircase and out into the city. Our first stop is the National Museum, a spacious and airy building with just enough artifacts (the first mention of Beirut is in 14th century BC – yes, that’s BC – and the museum has wonderful relics from the Bronze, Iron and Roman ages) to give you a feel for the city’s history without overload. Next we hit Downtown, grabbing a coffee in Martyrs’ Square, seeing the remains of a Roman bathhouse that was only discovered in 1968, and visiting the many churches and mosques which sit alongside one another reflecting the city’s multi-faith inhabitants. I am amazed how liberal people are – you see far more burqas and hijabs in London

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FOOD&TRAVEL

THE PHOENICIA

than Beirut. This is a Mediterranean city and most people wear shorts, skirts and airy clothes fitting to the warm climate. ‘Sometimes I think we Lebanese only live to eat!’ says Alain as we take a taxi to Gemayzeh for lunch. Stopped in our tracks by an unusual traffic jam, we wait as a beaming bride stops in the middle of the road, bouquet in hand, and strikes a pose for her photographer using us as a nice backdrop. Tawlet is a restaurant with a difference; it is a non-profit organisation set up to bring people together (after years of conflict) with food and tradition. Literally, it means ‘table’ and the style is homely with an open kitchen mastered each day by one of 30 chefs from all over Lebanon. Our chef is from Tripoli, and for US $23 we pile high our plates with delicacies from the north including tabbouleh, baba ganoush and kibbeh (pounded raw lamb). Stomachs full once again, we return to the hotel for spa treatments. The ILA treatments are especially good and I opt for the Manipura Massage which involves 90 minutes of blissful scrubbing, massaging

and poulticing. Relaxed and fully in the swing of things we head down to the marina for a drink before dinner at the hotel’s 11th floor French restaurant, Eau De Vie. ‘On a clear day you have eye contact,’ says Alain as we set off up the coast the next morning, ‘You can see Byblos from Beirut’. It is 37 km to Byblos, but we stop off enroute at Jeita Grotto, a breath-taking pair of limestone caves. The upper cave is home to the world’s largest stalactite, and the lower – inhabited since prehistoric times – bears an uncanny resemblance to the entrance to Hades. You even have to take a boat, although our vessel is steered Tony who, I must admit, isn’t quite as formidable as Charon. Byblos is one of the oldest constantly inhabited cities in the world – dating back to the Neolithic period in 5250BC, it makes the Romans seem modern. Originally a fishing village, the Phoenicians arrived in 4,000 BC, using their time in Byblos to come up with the alphabet. Lebanon’s geographic position means that since time immemorial it has served as a gateway to the Mediterranean from

the east, and to Asia from the west. Other big names who inhabited Byblos were the Babylonians, the Persians, Alexander the Great and the Romans who brought Christianity with them. To compliment culture with glamour, Eddé Sands, Lebanon’s most fashionable beach – ‘where people behave like peacocks’, says Alain – sits alongside Byblos’ ancient ruins. We have lunch overlooking the harbour before heading back to the hotel. After all, The Phoenicia is a landmark in its own right; locals and foreigners alike come to soak up the atmosphere, perhaps taking afternoon tea, sipping local beer or wine by the pool, or dining in one of the four restaurants which range from Lebanese to Italian, French and Asian. It’s no surprise this bastion of Beirut has celebrated its 50th Anniversary and is still counting. Phoenicia Beirut) is from £226 per room/night. British Airways (ba.com) flies daily to Beirut from Heathrow. Tickets start from £432 return. +961 1 369 100; phoeniciabeirut.com. Tawlet Restaurant; tawlet.com. Jeita Grotto; jeitagrotto.com

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Ceramic GlassGranite Marble Mosaic Porcelain Slate

020-7381-1880

www.tilesandbeyond.com

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299 Munster Road, Fulham, London, SW6 6BJ  fulham@tilesandbeyond.com Monday to Friday 9am - 5.30pmSaturday 9am - 5pmSunday 11am - 2pm

25/02/2013 14:24

Specialists in refurbishment and extension of listed buildings. We offer the complete service: Architectural Design Planning Interior Design Building Construction Telephone us for a free consultation

020 7221 5966

www.crawfordandgray.co.uk

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28/08/2012 09:35

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ROOM WITH

A VIEW Absolutely goes globetrotting to round up three of the best hotels with wow factor vistas

HOTEL CIPRIANI

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SHEEN FALLS LODGE

Hotel Cipriani, ITALY

When booking a room at the Hotel Cipriani you can choose either a pool, garden or lagoon view – that is, unless you opt for the Palladio Suite, which has a wall of windows framing 180-degree panoramic views across the lagoon. Known as the ‘glass capsule’, this spacious suite has two bathrooms, a living room, dining room (where guests can host butler-serviced dinner parties) and a large terrace with a heated plunge pool and jacuzzi. The interiors are inspired by 18th-century Venice with murals, marble floors and pillars; and there’s even a private garden and dock from where you can be whisked across to St Mark’s by boat. Once in town, why not go from one boat to another and take a gondola ride through the canals to admire the colourful houses and humpback bridges? Venetian queues are notorious, so make sure you book the ‘skip the line’ service (details below) so you can enjoy blissfully quick access to the main sites. In terms of food, the Cipriani has two restaurants: the bistro, Cip’s Club,

and fine-dining, silk-walled Fortuny Restaurant. Meanwhile, for traditional Venetian coffee and cake, head to the 18th-century Caffe Quadri in St Mark’s; for seafood stroll through the narrow streets to Palazzino G and order the Catalan Platter; and for those who want to step off the tourist trail, why not dine with a Venetian Countess and book dinner with Enrica Rocca at her palazzio-cumcookery-school. All in all, it’s no wonder that when visiting Venice celebrities, royalty and world leaders (think Johnny Depp and Ronald Regan) have stayed on Giudecca Island at the Hotel Cipriani. Rooms at Hotel Cipriani start from £927 per room per night, including daily American breakfast and all taxes. For further information visit hotelcipriani.com or call Orient-Express UK on 0845 077 2222. For a gondola ride, ‘skip the line’ service, entry to museums and tours in Venice visit: venetoinside.com; for information on Palazzina G: palazzinag.com; Restaurant Quadri: alajmo.it; and Enrica Rocca: enricarocca.com

Sheen Falls Lodge, IRELAND

Southern Ireland is home to some extraordinarily spectacular scenery; Kenmare, in particular, offers breathtaking vistas at every turn. No hotel better exemplifies this than the luxurious fivestar Sheen Falls Lodge, a country house near the famous nature trail, the Ring of Kerry. Guests are spoilt for choice scenically, with the stunning Sheen Falls winding around the back of the property – book a room overlooking these falls, it is a treat to wake up to the soothing sounds of a flowing waterfall – and a beautiful crystal-clear lake at the front of the building. Flying into Shannon Airport, we rented a car and drove the two-and-a-half hours to the hotel to take in the views. You can fly to Kerry Airport, which is roughly an hour’s drive, but the journey through Killarney National Park is not to be missed. Driving on the shoulders of mountains and through wooden glens, this reserve is home to Lord of the Rings-style pristine natural beauty. At this time of year there are barely any cars on the road, although

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FOOD&TRAVEL

VIVANTA BY TAJ

SHEEN FALLS LODGE

you might have to contend with the local sheep. Serious relaxation begins at Sheen Falls Lodge; take a trip to the spa for a Yon-Ka facial, or do a circuit of the jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and indoor heated pool. The hotel also provides a wide range of activities such as falconry, fly-fishing and golf. The stables were undergoing refurbishment when we visited, but the hotel recommended the Eclipse Centre in nearby Blackwater Bridge, and an enjoyable afternoon was spent trekking through the rugged countryside on horseback (eclipseireland.com). Dining at the lodge is second to none, but before your meal, pop down to the cellar for a tour of the extensive wine collection. Overlooking the falls, Le Cascade is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal by candlelight – pheasant breast en paupiette with sea buckthorn sauce, anyone? The lodge and the surrounding area offer sublime untainted nature – the perfect retreat. B&B rates from €89.00 per person sharing. sheenfallslodge.ie, discoverireland.com

Vivanta by Taj, INDIA

It’s not often you find a hotel with a threetone water vista: from infinity pool, to river and out to the deep blue sea, the only thing interrupting the view at Vivanta by Taj are palm trees laden with coconuts. Houseboats, backwaters and sunsets come to mind when you hear mention of Kerala, but word has spread, the tourists have flooded in, and few secluded spots remain. Thankfully, one of these idylls is Bekal, in Northern Kerala. Home to small villages, empty beaches and ancient forts, as of last year ‘secluded’ doesn’t mean slumming it as a new Vivanta by Taj came to town. With 64 rooms spread throughout bright white villas, a sprawling spa (the biggest in Asia, they say), two restaurants – seafood and Indian, as well as a poolside BBQ – this is the place to come for serious relaxation and pampering. Great for families or couples, there’s plenty to do including visiting Bekal Fort (the largest in Kerala), taking a trip in a houseboat, or making the most of the hotel’s grounds which can be traversed by golf buggy, bicycle or on foot.

Strolling along the beach at sunset shouldn’t be missed, and those who love activities can have a go at archery, kayaking, croquet, cookery demonstrations and early morning yoga sessions. There’s also a crèche – so it’s always an option to drop off the kids and head to the spa. Treatments range from facials and head massages (using curry leaves no less) to traditional Ayurveda therapies like Snana where you are bathed in herb-infused water, or Kati Basti where warm oil is poured over muscles to ease back pain. Enchanting-Travels and Taj Hotels offer a citybeach trip including a night at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai en route to Vivanta by Taj Bekal in Kerala. A similar tailor-made itinerary of 6 nights, 7 days during high season (October 2013) costs £1,335 per person based on two people sharing. All domestic flights, breakfast, airport and hotel transfers, private city sightseeing, activities, fees and taxes and a 24 hour point of contact are included in the price. For more information visit enchanting-india. co.uk, vivantabytaj.com and tajhotels.com 103

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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

BEST FOOT

Forward In preparation for the marathon, Absolutely visits Profeet, a specialist sports laboratory

ith marathon season coming up, it’s time to think about getting those all-important running shoes. Able to make or break your performance in a race, it’s worth investing a bit more time and money into getting the perfect pair. Enter Profeet, a sports laboratory in southwest London which specialises in footwear and custom insoles. Profeet is far more than your average sports shop. Buying here is a handson experience, complete with trained footwear specialists and scientific analysis. What’s more, assessments are by appointment only, ensuring that you get the dedicated, one-to-one attention you need to find the perfect footwear.

development and Profeet works closely with top athletes, helping them fine tune their footwear and gaining valuable feedback in the process. All this knowledge will ensure the right shoe is selected for your foot shape, foot type and your biomechanical movement. And its doesn’t end there as the staff can help you correct bad technique; having lived through the trials and tribulations of high level sport they can advise from experience. It might all sound terribly scientific and you may well be left wondering why exactly you need all this technology and professional advice

Step 1: Your feet and lower body are evaluated with video gait analysis and dynamic foot scans to identify movement patterns and forces acting through the foot. This information determines the degree of cushioning and support you’ll need in your insoles and shoes. Step 2: A mould of your foot is taken using state of the art vacuum technology (imagine a hi-tech footprint in the sand). This is used to custom mould a composite insole to your exact foot shape while you wait. The insole provides the perfect support for your foot and enhances balance by improving contact with the foot and thus increasing muscle activation.

Assessments come in various forms, ranging from a full-blown, hour-and-a half-long‘pro assessment’, with bio-mechanist and podiatrist Paul O’Malley, to a quick twenty minute ‘shoe fit’. Most customers opt for the ‘sports assessment’ which involves some seriously state-of-the-art technology and follows a 3-step process. The technology is impressive, however, the unique selling point for Profeet is its staff. All active in sport, each has a degree from a top university in a relevant field such as sports science, sports rehabilitation, biomechanics and podiatry. For example, footwear manager Richard is not only an ultramarathon runner, but also has a degree in sports science. Profeet staff live and breath footwear and test all the shoes themselves. International shoe manufacturers invite Profeet to consult on new product

PROFEET 3 STEPS TO COMFORT

if you’re only an amateur runner. However, rest assured it’s worth your while. Even the least committed of runners will benefit from the customised insoles and correct footwear. Not only does it reduce the risk of injury and increases comfort, but it also improves endurance capacity and performance, letting you run that little bit longer and harder – just what every runner needs, regardless of level.

Step 3: The right shoe type and right fit. There are all sorts of running shoes out there and the highly knowledgeable, experienced and qualified Profeet staff will guide you through the process ensuring you end up in the most appropriate shoes. 867-869 Fulham Road, SW6, 020 7736 0046; profeet.co.uk

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PLAY-CIAL

If your children are between three and twelve years old, let them loose in the Conrad Algarve’s ‘Little C Palace’. This bespoke children’s club allows youngsters to learn about local Portuguese culture, discover their inner adventurer and make lots of new holiday friends. A teaser board each day lists numerous activities – think marzipan modelling and rubber duck fishing – and there are fancy dress parties available too. Nightly rates start from €199 based on two adults and one child sharing on a B&B basis.+ 351 289 350 762; conradalgarve.com

TRAVEL

NOTES GET THEM TO THE GREEK

Nestling on the rocky shoreline below the mountains of Greek island, Zakynthos, lies the Peligoni Club. A haven for families, the Club offers all manner of holiday activities, from tennis to windsurfing. The whitewashed interiors of the club provide a comfortable backdrop for their BBQ evenings, whilst the Emerald Villas Deluxe is the pick of their properties for a family of seven. Opa! Seven nights at Emerald Villas Deluxe (includes Club access and watersports) from £700 pp. 020 8740 3001; peligoni.com

SAIL AWAY

Having trouble coaxing your teenagers out of their hovels (bedrooms)? Book them into the Epic Teen Challenge at Nonsuch Bay, Antigua. The luxury sailing resort is launching a three discipline sports challenge, encompassing sailing, kayaking and swimming. Involving a two mile single-handed sail around Mongoose Island, the competition is aimed at 13-18 year olds. Too good to be true? ‘Nonsuch’. From £630 for a two bedroom apartment for a family of four, including sailing. 020 8090 4978; nonsuchbayresort.com

HIGH TEA

If you’ve decided against hitting the slopes this spring, but still fancy treating the children, book in to DUKES St James. Children are invited to enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, and sample the exquisite kids menu, specially designed by Nigel Mendham, at the awardwinning restaurant, Thirty Six. For visitors under the age of six, an adorable ‘Dukesy’ dog awaits their arrival, and for older children, a beautifully illustrated storybook. Best of all, a stay in any room or suite includes a children’s room free, with breakfast. Now that’s a spring break worth talking about. From £468 for two adults and two children. Valid until 8th April 2013. 020 7491 4840; dukeshotel.com 105

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Stunning interiors, custom solutions

In:Style Direct design sophisticated interiors for busy homeowners. We know how to create a luxurious but comfortable living space. With 35 years’ experience and using our own employed workforce, our design team can plan and arrange everything needed to provide a tasteful interior that reflects you and your lifestyle. Our service is cost-effective and when you are short on time, it’s the smart way to create a stylish yet practical home quickly.

It’s all part of the service: Space & design planning Contemporary, co-ordinated quality furnishings Accessories and artwork to add the personal touch Full refurbishment service or just décor Design studios in Fulham, Ealing & North West London So if you aspire to a unique and luxurious home, our tailored design service offers the simplest way to achieve it.

Find out more at www.instyledirect.co.uk call us on 020 7348 7625 or visit our showroom at 15 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf just next to Chelsea Harbour

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ABSOLUTELY PROPERTY APRIL 2013

BUCKINGHAM GATE, WESTMINSTER, SW1 This newly refurbished mid-terrace house is only moments away from Buckingham Palace and benefits from the amenities of Victoria Street. The green space of St James’s Park is only a short walk away.

£1,995,000 Leasehold

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020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk

28/03/2013 12:20

We asked our clients to rate our levels of communication:

We give the same energy and passion to selling or letting property regardless of value and never forget that houses and flats are homes first and foremost. FULHAM OFFICE SALES MANAGER

SAID WE WERE GOOD, VERY GOOD OR EXCELLENT

Local know-how. Better results.

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

SALES

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

Old Chelsea Mews SW3 £4,950,000 Old Chelsea Mews is an extremely quiet, gated mews located just south of Paultons Square and the King’s Road. This rare house offers superb security in a picturesque setting and is presented in excellent condition throughout. The accommodation comprises a ground floor entrance hall leading to a dining room, a superb kitchen leading out to the patio garden, a large first floor reception room, a large master bedroom with en suite bathroom and two further bedroom suites. Freehold. EPC=C. Sole Agents.

CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Our Ofﬁces: Balham Barnes

Battersea Brook Green Chelsea

Clapham Earls Court Fulham

Hammersmith Holland Park Kensington

Little Venice Mayfair North Kensington

Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster South Kensington

Bramerton Street SW3 £2,950,000 This wonderful house is located on a very quiet Chelsea street, just off the King’s Road. Arranged over three floors, the property features a large double reception room that leads out to a small terrace and down to a pretty patio garden below, a fabulous dining room and kitchen, three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a stunning roof top terrace. Freehold. EPC=E. Sole Agents.

CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk

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27/03/2013 10:17

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SALES

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

Pont Street SW1 £2,295,000 An extremely well finished Knightsbridge apartment located a short walk from Sloane Square and Sloane Street at the rear of a well-maintained red brick period property. The accommodation has been finished to the highest of standards with underfloor heating throughout, a Poggenpohl kitchen, two large bedrooms, one with a large walk-in wardrobe and two further bathrooms. The property also benefits from direct access to a sunny patio garden, that in turn has access to Pont Street Mews. Leasehold. Sole Agents.

CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk

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PROPERTY

RUTH BLOOMFIELD: KEEP IT DOWN!

PROPERTY NEWS D&G DIARY

This market feels a little bit like Christmas, false bonhomie amongst top end agents who’ve been coining it in for as long as the vast majority have been staring over the abyss. The forward valuing we lauded last month has been replaced by a growing realisation that perhaps this ability is not what rapacious sellers want to hear when it’s not such good news. Buyers always have the whip hand as they’re the ones with the money. With some now calling the top of the prime market you’d be a brave person to view the current trickle of deals without some degree of trepidation.

Ed Mead, Director, 020 7225 1225; douglasandgordon.co.uk

MARKET ROUND UP

As another financial year comes to an end it would be a good time to assess what has been going on in terms of the London property market in the last 12 months. London in general has, of course, performed well with an average increase of 7.1% according to the land registry figure released earlier this year. Pimlico has certainly kept in step with this but given the varied supply of stock we sell from studios to 6 bedroom houses some profiles have far outperformed this percentage. Another increase that one can monitor would be the average price of the property we have sold in the last 12 months this has increased also from c.£945,000 to £1,125,000. There are of course a huge range of factors that have contributed to this, from currency exchange rates to low interest rates and good rental returns of c.4.5% but by far and away the most consistent thing we hear is that for such a central location Pimlico represents a fair price. Finally, a 2013 prediction, without being too gung hoe the signs are there for another promising year with prices continuing to rise and confidence remaining high.

Harry Buchanan, Associate Sales Director, 020 7828 4050; jackson-stops.co.uk

Two pieces of recent research vividly illustrate the dilemma currently facing residents of Chelsea. The first, by analysts Barbour ABI, reveals that people living in the borough of Kensington and Chelsea are amongst the most likely in the UK to carry out major home improvement projects. A study of planning applications nationwide found that in 2012 alone one in 20 households were planning works, a number that has been steadily increasing (and of course these figures do not include more minor work carried out without need of permission). The second study is a survey of 1,200 K&C residents which requested their views on basement extensions. Predictably more than half complained about levels of noise, dust, traffic and vibration. One in ten claimed to have experienced problems with damp, flooding and (shudder) vermin as a result of the work. Which means that Mick Jagger is in for a treat since his near neighbour, the Chelsea boss Roman Abramovich, has just been granted consent to dig a double decker basement beneath his house in Cheyne Walk; a project which it is estimated will take three years and result in a superhouse worth around £100m. The situation, of course, is a classic Catch 22. Everyone wants to be able to do what they want to their homes when they want; but nobody wants to live near someone who has called in the builders. Perhaps the most pragmatic view on the debate so far comes from Aisha Caan, the artist wife of former Dragon James. The couple hope to dig a basement beneath their west London home, with space for a studio and private art gallery to display Mrs Caan’s work. Their neighbours are outraged, and several have officially objected to the scheme - but Mrs Caan is gloriously unrepentant. Her view is that she and her husband have endured repeated, lengthy, noisy and disruptive building work in the houses around their Art Deco property. They have not, she says, raised a murmur of complaint. And now it is simply their turn to switch on the pneumatic drills. Underlying all this is the reason why home improvements are such big news right now. Partly it is because the sales market remains treacly slow and selling is a slow and hard business. And partly because, thanks to last spring’s Stamp Duty hike on homes worth £2m or more, it is significantly more economical to extend your existing home than it is to find another one. Whatever the neighbours might think.

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Absolutely

A LOST HOUR...

Nomad Books is a great spot where you can dip into your favourite book whilst enjoying a coffee in their very own café. Great for Families with a large children’s section. Very comfy sofas and ideal way to kill an hour.

THE MOST FABULOUS COCKTAIL IS...

Amuse Bouche is definitely one of my favourites and Fulham’s very own champagne bar. A great spot to people watch offering a very relaxed atmosphere. The best thing is that they have up to eight different champagnes available by the glass!

BEST KEPT SECRET...

The Drawing Room cafe in Fulham Palace overlooking the gardens is a must see and you can treat yourself to delicious cakes, buns or even a homemade soup. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon in this cold weather!

STYLISH BOUTIQUE...

March is a chic & sophisticated boutique for the fashionable ladies of Fulham offering sassy little outfits for any occasion. The service is outstanding and the owner is always on hand for styling advice.



MOST FABULOUS PROPERTY...

Gothic Lodge is a unique, detached two bedroom cottage set in the gardens of Fulham Palace with one if the biggest lawn gardens in the Borough. P.O.A

SW3

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT...



Fulham Wine Rooms’ is a Spanish orientated wine bar, restaurant and wine shop. Great atmosphere for formal or informal gatherings and offering an amazing wine list with up to 200 different wines.

HELP TO BUY INITIATIVE PROGRAM LAUCHED The Government announced 2 strategies to kick-start the housing market: 1) £12bn in guarantees over the next 3 years to support £130bn of mortgage loans on properties valued up to £600,000 and 2) Government committing £3.5bn in interest free loans (for 5 years) to support equity deposits up to 20% of new-build homes (again up to £600,000). One of the effects of the credit crisis has been the withdrawal of mortgage products for borrowers without substantial deposits as banks have become more risk adverse. Schemes such as Financing for Lending (FLS) from the Bank of England have provided banks with cheap cash, however it has not resolved the problem of the banks not wanting to lend without a substantial deposit. The new Help to Buy initiative deals with this problem by bringing down the Loan to Value ratio for borrowers that the banks now require. In other words, the equity loan and / or the loan guarantee from the government now make it easier for borrowers to qualify for mortgages. We expect this to stimulate the mortgage market, which in turn will allow homeowners to move more freely. We may well see an increase in house prices as more buyers qualify for mortgages. Charles Curran, Director, 020 7581 2216; maskells.co.uk

SELINA GARCIA, LETTINGS MANAGER, FULHAM 020 7751 8898; sullivanthomas.co.uk

POWER TO CHELSEA

With the ever increasing demand for prime Central London property, coupled with the limited supply, ‘river living’ is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many buyers. Oyster Pier in Battersea is soon to become London’s newest concept in bespoke and luxury living. Up to ten barges will be moored at London’s newest residential pier offering 2000 square feet of premium living space, hand built individually to the specification of the buyer. Furthermore, with its unique sixty year leases, it is an exceptional investment opportunity. The first barge is now moored at the pier. Benson Beard, Associate Director, 020 7589 6677; bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

LOOKING FORWARD TO A STRONG Q2

We have had an exceptional first quarter of 2013, no doubt helped by the expansion of the Fulham group. The opening of the Fulham Road and West Kensington offices has magnified our presence in the area, successfully building upon the already well-established New Kings Road branch. These openings have certainly contributed to a rise in the number of instructions we are taking on. Looking towards Spring/Summer 2013, I would expect the market to remain strong, with high levels of demand continuing to outstrip the supply of properties available, allowing vendors to be bullish about asking prices. Fulham has always been a popular area, particularly in and around the Parsons Green area, where family homes are often snapped up within days of coming on to the market. It’s not just the sales office which has seen a good first quarter though, our New Kings Road lettings branch, headed up by Jahney Selva, has also had an exceptional few months, and are continually taking on impressive new properties. Peter Shaw, Group Director, 020 7610 9966; featherstoneleigh.co.uk 113

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Offices throughout the UK

CARTERJONAS.CO.UK

Bullet point KNIGHTSBRIDGE

PONT STREET SW1 Garden duplex flat in the heart of Knightsbridge. Reception room n Kitchen Energy efficiency: Band E

2 bedrooms

2 bathrooms

Garden

GUIDE PRICE £1,850,000 THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 tim.macpherson@carterjonas.co.uk

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KNIGHTSBRIDGE PONT STREET SW1 Spacious studio flat with ample storage. Reception room n Open-plan kitchen n Separate sleeping area Study/dressing room n Bathroom n Energy efficiency: Band D

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ675,000 THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 tim.macpherson@carterjonas.co.uk

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26/03/2013 14:25

Offices throughout the UK

CARTERJONAS.CO.UK

KNIGHTSBRIDGE LOWNDES SQUARE SW1 An immaculate and contemporary apartment on the raised ground floor of a well maintained building in the heart of Knightsbridge. Reception room n Kitchen n Double bedroom Bathroom n Communal gardens Energy efficiency: Band C

£985 PER WEEK* £4,268.33 PER MONTH*

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 max.chaudry@carterjonas.co.uk

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL:

cjview.me/ac05

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local branch for this information.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE PONT STREET SW1 Contemporary flat in a handsome period building. Reception room n Kitchen n Double bedroom Bathroom n Energy efficiency: Band C

£825 PER WEEK* £3,575 PER MONTH*

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 max.chaudry@carterjonas.co.uk

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL:

cjview.me/ac03

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local branch for this information.

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KNIGHTSBRIDGE THE KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW7 An immaculate apartment on the raised ground floor of a desirable modern development. Reception room n Kitchen n Bathroom Double bedroom n Swimming pool n Gym 24 hour concierge n Energy efficiency: Band C

£1,795 PER WEEK* £7,778.33 PER MONTH*

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 max.chaudry@carterjonas.co.uk

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL:

cjview.me/ac06

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local branch for this information.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE PONT STREET SW1 A charming flat in the heart of Knightsbridge. Reception room n Kitchen n 2 double bedrooms 2 bathrooms n Energy efficiency: Band D

£995 PER WEEK* £4,311.67 PER MONTH*

Knightsbridge and Chelsea 020 7584 7020 max.chaudry@carterjonas.co.uk

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL:

cjview.me/ac04

*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local branch for this information.

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PROPERTY

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IN THEIR

ANITA SANFORD, ASSOCIATE AT CARTER JONAS, CHELSEA

PHOTOGRAPHY: SEBASTIAN BARROS, SEBBARROS.COM

t was a friend who suggested to me that I become an estate agent, as he thought I would be good at it. As it happens, it’s no doubt in my blood, my Great Grandfather was an estate agent, auctioneer and rent collector. He had a firm called Ashby’s in Northamptonshire which my Great Uncle then inherited. My other Grandfather was also a salesman and had a chain of jewellers in central London called Sanford Brothers with the main store on Oxford Street. I remember going there as a little girl and my Grandfather handing me a few notes and saying, “the good thing about being in sales is that you never know what any day will bring”. I always remember this comment as it is so true of our job. We endure many disappointments and carry out challenging and sometimes unfruitful work but likewise a great offer can appear out of the blue. I started my career in agency, working for Barnard Marcus in East Sheen just after the last recession in the early 1990’s. Life was a little different back then and we spent our time phoning clients for price reductions, photographing properties and chasing the 5pm post to send details to prospective buyers. It was a busy life without email or mobile

phones. I had a very old school, experienced manager who taught me all the basics. I believe you can’t really teach someone how to close deals- you either can or you can’t- but you can learn a lot of good negotiation skills which I still remember to this day. I have greatly enjoyed my job over the years as obviously I love property, but I am also very social and it is interesting meeting different kinds of people and not being deskbound. I’ve worked in both outside and in central London and it has to be said that central London is the most stimulating as it is a much faster pace and obviously remunerates well! I think I have honed my skills as a negotiator over the years and the best part of the job for me is the actual selling. Experience teaches you how to give clients the best advice and if they choose to listen to it, the rewards are satisfying. I pride myself on being one of the top fee earners in my firm at Carter Jonas and long may it continue. I love my area in Knightsbridge, in-fact I have had a lifelong relationship with it since the age of 17 when I had a Saturday job at Harrods. Now my job funds my role as a regular customer there! 020 7584 7026; carterjonas.co.uk

‘‘

OWN WORDS

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Cadogan Square

Exclusive Duplex Residence in the Heart of Knightsbridge

beautiful fourth and fifth floor duplex apartment in this impressive Grade II listed building situated on the north of garden square. The flat provides views over the tree-lined square as well as access to an exceptional south facing non-demised roof terrace.

3 Bedrooms • Reception Room • 2 Bathrooms • Communal Gardens • Resident Parking

0207 584 1100

chelsea@engelvoelkers.com

£4,250,000 Leasehold

ENGEL VOLKERS.APRIL.indd 2

26/03/2013 14:50

a properties truly global agency were or letresult? by topurchased get the best

foreign 87% of 87% our buyers London of our London 87% of our tenants London properties were purchased or properties were and inwere 2012. properties purchased or let by let by foreign or you tenants in 2012. purchased or chose let by Isn’t it Isn’t itbuyers time foreign buyers time you chose a truly buyers international agency to get foreign a truly global agency and in 2012.in 2012. 500 and tenants the besttenants possible result? OFFICES to it get the best result? Isn’t time chose Isn’t you it time you chose a truly global a trulyagency global agency to get the best result? to get the best result?

COUNTRIES

500

CONTINENTS

OFFICES

500 OFFICES

Established in 1977, Engel & Völkers is a premium brand COUNTRIES and one of the largest international CONTINENTS estate agencies in COUNTRIES the world. WithCOUNTRIES our unrivalled network and reach, we can CONTINENTS CONTINENTS attract potential buyers and tenants for your property from London and all over the world.

Established in 1977, Engel & Völkers is a premium brand

Established in 1977, Engel & Völkers is a premium brand ininternational 1977, Engel & Völkers is agencies a premium brand and one of Established the largest estate in Our experienced and dedicated London and one of the largest international estate agencies in office will ensure and one of the largest international estate agencies in the world. With our unrivalled network and the world. our unrivalled network and reach, we canreach, we can the world. With our unrivalled sales networkand and reach, we can that youWith receive the best possible lettings attract potential buyers and tenants fortenants your property attract potential buyers and for your property attract potential buyers and tenants for your property service. So if you are of selling or renting your fromfrom London and all over the world.the world. London and allthinking over from London and all over the world.

property, look no further.

Our experienced and dedicated London office will ensure Our experienced and dedicated London office will ensure experienced dedicated that Our you receive the best and possible sales andLondon lettings office will ensure that you receive the best possible sales and lettings that receive the best possible sales and lettings service. Soyou if you are thinking of selling or renting your Alix McAlinden, Director service. So if you are thinking of selling or renting your property, look no service. Sofurther. if you are thinking of selling or renting your property, +44 (0)20 7584 1100look no further.

property, look no further.

chelsea@engelvoelkers.com Managing Director Alix McAlinden, Director

Alix McAlinden, Director +44 (0)20 7584 1100 )20 7584 1100 +44 (0Director Alix McAlinden, chelsea@engelvoelkers.com chelsea@engelvoelkers.com

+44 (0)20 7584 1100 chelsea@engelvoelkers.com

Your London gateway to the most Your London gateway to the most Your global London gateway exclusive property agency to the most exclusive global property agency

exclusive global property agency Your London gateway to the most exclusive global property agency

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Your reward for all the lonely dinners at your desk.

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19/02/2013 15:07

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19/02/2013 15:07

Sloane Square Lettings. 020 7717 5483 sloanesquarelettings@hamptons-int.com

Eaton Terrace SW1W - ÂŁ1,100 per week Furnished A stunning light and bright two bedroom apartment situated moments from Sloane Square. This property has a large reception room, two double bedrooms and lovely terrace. EPC: D

Eaton Mews North SW1X - ÂŁ1,125 per week Furnished/ Part furnished A beautifully refurbished mews house has been stylishly decorated throughout. This fabulous two bedroom house is arranged over two floors and is enviably located in one of the most desirable mews in Belgravia. EPC: D

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Hamptons Islington Lettings Chelsea Lettings. 020 7717 5455 Lettings. 020 7717 5433 islingtonlettings@hamptons-int.com chelsealettings@hamptons-int.com

Hamptons City Lettings Lettings. 020 7717 5437 citylettings@hamptons-int.com Hamptons City Sales Sales. 020 7717 5435 citysales@hamptons-int.com

Commercial Street E1 - £525 per week

A beautifully refurbished and spacious one bedroom apartment with large balcony in the popular Exchange Building development benefiting from 24 hour concierge.

Star Place E1W - £799 per week A beautiful two bedroom apartment with a large terrace offering stunning waterside views of St. Katharine Docks, modern fixtures and fittings throughout and 24 hour concierge.

Coleridge Gardens, SW10 - £920 per week Unfurnished A fantastic two bedroom two bathroom apartment with wood floors and private balcony overlooking the communal gardens. The flat is larger than average for the development, at just over 1130 square feet. EPC: C

Cathedral Lodge, EC1 - Leasehold - £475,000

This exceptionally spacious unmodernised 1 bedroom Square Mile apartment is on the 5th floor of an extremely popular lift-serviced building with concierge and parking.

Charing Cross Road, WC2 - Leasehold - £725,000

A 2 bedroom apartment located on the 3rd floor of a lift serviced period mansion block close to Oxford Street. Ideal for access to central London and the Theatre district.

The Wallpaper N1week - £995 per week – Long Let Chadwell Street, EC1R - £725 per week – Long Let Beaufort Street,Apartments, SW3 - £795 per Part furnished This vast two bedroom propertytwo offers over 1500 sq. ft. of space and Bright and airy split level period with high quality fixtures A stunning recently refurbished bedroom two bathroom part furnished property with spacious reception room conversion and private garden. benefits from high quality fixtures and fittings throughout, integrated and fittings throughout whilst offering fantastic access to the City, Angel/ EPC: D media system, large decked garden and two bathrooms. Upper Street and Exmouth Market.

Hamptons Fulham Sales. 020 7717 5299 fulham@hamptons.co.uk

Walham Grove, SW6 ÂŁ1,950,000 Freehold A delightful period house with a superb south facing garden in one of the most sought after and attractive streets in central Fulham. The house has excellent living accommodation arranged over four floors, and could be further extended at the rear subject to planning consent. EPC: D 2 Reception Rooms, Kitchen/ Breakfast Room, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Garden, 2 Entrances

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Hamptons Islington Lettings Pimlico Westminster Lettings. 020and 7717 5455 Lettings. 020 7834 7316 islingtonlettings@hamptons-int.com pimwestlettings@hamptons-int.com

Hamptons City Lettings Lettings. 020 7717 5437 citylettings@hamptons-int.com Hamptons City Sales Sales. 020 7717 5435 citysales@hamptons-int.com

Commercial Street E1 - £525 per week

A beautifully refurbished and spacious one bedroom apartment with large balcony in the popular Exchange Building development benefiting from 24 hour concierge.

Horseferry Road, SW1P - £2,600 pw Furnished/Unfurnished The exceptional blend of high end interior design and traditional London facade creates a stunning four bedroom property that is fantastically located in the heart of Westminster. EPC: C

Cathedral Lodge, EC1 - Leasehold - £475,000

This exceptionally spacious unmodernised 1 bedroom Square Mile apartment is on the 5th floor of an extremely popular lift-serviced building with concierge and parking.

Charing Cross Road, WC2 - Leasehold - £725,000

A 2 bedroom apartment located on the 3rd floor of a lift serviced period mansion block close to Oxford Street. Ideal for access to central London and the Theatre district.

The Wallpaper Apartments, N1pw - £995 per week – Long Let Chadwell Street, EC1R - £725 per week – Long Let Dean Ryle Street, SW1P - £1,100 Furnished This bedroom property over 1500 sq. ft. of space and and stylish Bright and airy split level period conversion highspaces quality fixtures This vast two two bedroom apartment in offers a character building boasts spacious contemporary accommodation, with light with and airy and the highest benefits fromofhigh quality fittings throughout, integrated and fittings throughout whilst offering fantastic access to the City, Angel/ specification fixtures andfixtures fittings.and EPC: C media system, large decked garden and two bathrooms. Upper Street and Exmouth Market.

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PROPERTY PROFILE

MOVING IN

NOTHING’S BETTER THAN THE INSIDE SCOOP. LOCAL AGENTS GIVE THEIR RECOMMENDATIONS...

INTERIOR INSPIRATION

LOCAL STREET

LOCAL HANGOUT

Lisa Jane Stratton, Benham and Reeves 020 7581 2112; We always recommend In:Style Direct. With a Fulham showroom they can provide everything needed to kit out a rental home all from under one roof. Their designs really appeal to professional tenants and they’re good value too.

Max Chaudry, Carter Jonas 020 7590 4696; Walton Street is a hidden gem connecting busy Beauchamp Place to Brompton Road and has something for everyone. Snazzy bars, classy restaurants, vibrant cafes, designer shops and a general all around good vibe.

Alice Pearson-Wright, Strutt & Parker LLP 0207 731 7100; The newly opened Brown Cow on the Fulham Road is sibling to the Sands End pub, it offers comfort, great pub classics including their famous scotched egg as well as a good choice of drinks, in a rustic and warm, friendly environment.

FACT

TIME OUT

Georgina Clarke, Jackson-Stops & Staff 020 7828 4050; When Pimlico was originally built it was formally known as South Belgravia. Pimlico was later named after the local beer, “Pimlico Ale”. The ale which was brewed from the middle-ages to the tudor period, was so strong that it was considered “wicked”.

Patrick Littlemore, Marsh and Parsons 020 8846 2320; I’m told by my wife that Bliss on Sloane Avenue is great. Their cleverly compiled menu card of treatments ensures that you will feel revived and refreshed at every level and their delicious brownie buffet is a wonderful indulgence.

KIDS Andrew Everill, Bective Leslie Marsh 020 7589 6677; Purple Dragon is Chelsea’s slick private member’s kids club. The space is packed with brilliantly designed features that kids will adore with their endless activities ranging from baking cookies in the kitchen, learn to dive in their fabulous pool.

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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

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 7736 6110

furzedown 020 8769 7900

020 8772 7080

Hamble Street, SW6

£1,175,000

A truly fabulous house presenting a newly refurbished contemporary kitchen, large double reception room with polished wooden floors and beautiful living space throughout the rest of the house. • Large patio garden • Private Outhouse • Four double bedrooms • Large Master bedroom with en-suite •Beautiful features including solid wooden frame doors in the kitchen

aspire fulham south 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

ASPIRE.PROPERTY.APRIL.NEW.indd 1

.co.uk

27/03/2013 15:07

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON MEMORY LANE balham

Hambalt Road, Clapham, SW4 020 8673 6111 fulham central £1,185,000 020 7381 7381

clapham south

battersea

clapham north

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham south

furzedown

tooting

020 7736 6110

Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6

020 8769 7900

020 8772 7080

£1,245,000

Memory Lane

Tom Ward of aspire’s Fulham office talks to a vendor about contemporary David Kirkup of aspire’s Clapham South office talks to a vendor recalling and outside living at her house on Wandsworth Bridge Road. happy memories of living in this beautiful house on Hambalt Road. How long have you lived in the property? For nearly years with much the first How longtwo have you lived atof your year spent completely refurbishing the house. property? was rewired throughout new plumbing, IItmoved into the propertyand in 2010. double glazing, fire doors and a fire alarm system do wereyou installed. What like most about living in Clapham? do community you like most living in IWhat love the feelabout of Clapham Fulham/on Wandsworth Road? and the fact that people areBridge genuinely It is a very vibrant district of Fulham with friendly. I also like that there’s always lots to do without having to travel far to do it!

excellent transport connections, a park opposite and you gooddraw schools in the vicinity. Where did inspiration Although is on Wandsworth from forthe thehouse design/interior of Bridge Road, noise from the traffic is barely your the property? noticeable. it isa afair busy I’ve movedConsidering around quite bitarea, and it still iseach veryhouse friendly. has been very different in style and décor. This house feels clean Where you draw withoutdid seeming tooinspiration much like afrom showfor the design/interior the property? London home – this is a realof home, which feels has its very style - very contemporary - and comfy andown lived-in. Most importantly a I relaxing place to be.

like the clean and airy finish featuring real wooden floors,you good qualityany carpets and clean white walls Did install special enhanced with mirrors and beautiful lighting. On a features in the property? day, light streams through house. Isunny didn’t install them but I lovethe the bi-fold doors. They draw the outside Did you install features in which is lovelyany onspecial a summer’s day in the property? We winter. created They two extra or during the allowrooms so plus a bathroom in the basement much light into the room. and decked the garden, which is accessed via bi-fold doors, opening up the house to the outside.

balham • battersea • clapham north • clapham south • fulham central • fulham south • furzedown • tooting .co.uk .co.uk

Aspire.ADVERTORIAL.APRIL.NEW.indd 2 Aspire.ADVERTORIAL.2.indd 2

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MEMORY

Hambalt Road, Claph £1,185,000

David Kirkup of aspir happy memories of l Are there any further changes or developments you would have made had you stayed in the property? The house has planning permission to add a wraparound extension to the lower floor and a mansard roof can be added to provide more bedroom space and a roof terrace. What was your favourite room in the house? The sitting/dining room on the ground floor in the winter and of course the kitchen and garden in the summer.

What will you miss the most when you move? Again the kitchen, it is very easy to work with all the appliances and yet always looks clean and stylish whatever you have been cooking!

How long have you lived at your property? I moved into the property in 2010.

What do you like most about liv in Clapham? I love the community feel of Clapham and the fact that people are genuinel friendly. I also like that there’s always l aspire fulham south to do without having to travel far to d

What will you miss the most when you move? All my memories have been good ones so I will miss it all.

020 7736 6110

fulham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

Aspire.ADVERTORIAL.APRIL.NEW.indd 3

balham • b .co.uk .co.uk

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PROPERTY

PRIME PURCHASE

SET ON ARGUABLY ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER STREETS IN SOUTH FULHAM, THIS HOUSE OFFERS EXQUISITE CONTEMPORARY LIVING THROUGHOUT.

ettrington Road is one of only two streets that offers the benefit of overlooking the wide, green open spaces of South Park. As you enter the house, you are greeted by a large double reception room which has been adorned with beautiful finishes and furniture. This flows through to a wonderful, open plan kitchen/diner with direct access to the private patio garden which mirrors the contemporary feel of the property. As you ascend through the levels of the house, the quality finish and attention to detail are more than apparent. All the staircases

in the house are solid oak complimented with steel and glass balustrades. The first floor is occupied by what would be conventionally three bedrooms and a bathroom, but is currently laid out as two bedrooms and an office space leading out to a balcony overlooking the park. The stunning, modern family bathroom is also set on the first floor. The loft area is currently being used as a second reception room/office space and offers direct access to a beautiful roof terrace, again overlooking South Park. Enjoying a glass of something in this part of the house on a summers evening will be a very special place to be.

DETAILS

Settrington Road, ÂŁ1,695,000

CONTACT

aspire, Fulham south 020 7736 6110; aspire.co.uk

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www.sullivanthomas.co.uk

A sensational fully refurbished and extended house, finished to the highest

• 6 Bedrooms

• 3 Bathrooms

specification including air conditioning, internet and built in speakers in many rooms.

• Double Reception Room

• 2 Shower Rooms

• Kitchen/Breakfast Room

• South Facing Garden

• Media/Family Room

• 2750 sq ft (approx)

A beautifully presented five bedroom semi detached period house offering in

• 5 Double Bedrooms

• 2 Bathrooms

excess of 2250 sq ft of usable space and a well kept 49ft (approx) garden.

• Reception Room

• Separate WC

Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333

Cloncurry Street SW6 £2,400,000 F/H • Kitchen/Breakfast Room • Wine Cellar Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333

Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333 Lettings: 020 7751 8898 Fulham Parson Green Sales: 020 7751 8899 Lettings: 020 7751 8898 Wandsworth Common Sales: 020 8767 7711 Lettings: 020 8682 3121

SULLIVAN THOMAS.FINAL.3.indd 1

• Dining Room

• Garden

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

Ringmer Avenue SW6 £2,350,000 F/H

www.sullivanthomas.co.uk

28/03/2013 12:49

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

www.sullivanthomas.co.uk

Cloncurry Street SW6 £3,250,000 F/H A sensational architect designed house with no expense spared during its complete refurbishment, using the finest materials and technology throughout.

• 4/5 Bedrooms

• 2 Shower Rooms (1 En Suite)

• Reception Room

• Family Room

• Kitchen/Dining Room

• Gym

• 2 Bathrooms (1 En Suite) • Garden

Fulham Bishops Park Sales: 020 7731 3333

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

SULLIVAN THOMAS.FINAL.3.indd 2

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Woodlawn Road SW6 £1,300 p/w A newly refurbished 5 bedroom family house in the popular Alphabet Streets

• 5 Bedrooms

• Furnished/Unfurnished

and close to Bishops Park.

• Double Repeption Room

• Walk in Wardrobe

• Eat In Kitchen

• Good Storage

• 3 Bathrooms (2 En Suite) • Garden

Kenyon Street SW6 £895 p/w A stunning 4 double bedroom family house on this residential road,

• 4 Double Bedrooms

• Utility Room

well located for the open spaces of Bishop’s Park.

• Double Reception Room

• Cloakroom

• Eat In Kitchen

• South Facing Garden

• 2 Bathrooms

• Unfurnished

Fulham Parson Green Lettings: 020 7751 8898

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

SULLIVAN THOMAS.FINAL.3.indd 3

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

Fulham Parson Green Lettings: 020 7751 8898

www.sullivanthomas.co.uk

28/03/2013 12:49

London Lettings Chelsea & Riverside

DOUBLE CLICK TO EDIT

Lots Road, Chelsea SW10 Compass Compass House, House, Chelsea Chelsea Creek Creek l l l l

One Bedroom Apartment Brand Brand New New Apartment Apartment Off Street Parking 2 Bedrooms Bedrooms 2

l l l l

DOUBLE CLICK TO EDIT

£360pw £1,500pw £1,500pw

Garden Furnished Furnished Approx Short Short Let Let500 Sq Ft

PoolesChelsea, Lane, Chelsea Road SW10 Kings Kings Chelsea, Kings Kings Road Four Bedroom House l l l l

1 1 Bedroom Bedroom Apartment Apartment Unfurnished Furnished Furnished

l l l l

£995pw £575pw £575pw

Gated Development West West Facing Facing Balcony Balcony Approx 1,300 Approx sq ft Approx 500 500 sq Sq ft Ft

DOUBLE CLICK TO EDIT

Stadium Street, Chelsea SW10 £365pw Tetcott Road, Chelsea £1,750pw Tetcott Road, Apartment Chelsea £1,750pw One Bedroom Recently Redecorated

£425pw Burnaby Street, Chelsea SW10 Sloane Gardens, Chelsea £1,650pw Sloane Gardens, Chelsea Patio Garden £1,650pw One Bedroom Apartment

l l l l

Immaculate Immaculate Throughout Furnished Throughout 2 2 Bedroom Bedroom House House

l l l l

Furnished Furnished Approx 450 Sq Ft Approx Approx 1100 1100 sq sq ft ft

t: t: 020 020 7351 7351 0387 0387 Martin&Co.Apr.indd 1

Contemporary Apartment Contemporary Apartment Furnished 3 3 Bedrooms Bedrooms

l l l l

Large Reception Room Large Reception Approx 500 Sq Room Ft Approx 1500 sq Approx 1500 sq ft ft

1 1 Cremorne Cremorne Rd Rd Chelsea Chelsea London London SW10 SW10 0NA 0NA e: chelsea@martinco.com www.martincochelsea.co.uk e: chelsea@martinco.com www.martincochelsea.co.uk 27/03/2013 11:22

SO LD

Burlington Road, SW17 Routh Road, SW18 £asking price, Freehold £3,000,000

Burlington Road, SW17 Ouseley Road, SW12 £asking price, Freehold £1,750,000

rymer-irens.com

RI_TempFINAL.indd RymerIrens.indd 2 9

SO LD Road,SW17 SW17 EPC: D Burlington Veronica Road,

EPC: D Freehold

SO LD

£asking price, Freehold Freehold £3,500,000

Road, SW17 EPC: F Burlington Trinity Road, SW18 price, Freehold Freehold £asking £2,500,000

EPC: E

Freehold

SO LD

SO LD SO LD

Burlington Road,SW2 SW17 Telford Avenue, £asking price, Freehold £1,750,000

Road, SW17 EPC: D Burlington Wandle Road, SW17 price, Freehold Freehold £asking £2,550,000

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

020 8767 2222

EPC: E Freehold

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8045 8989

03/12/2012 22/03/2013 17:35 12:05

London’s Letting Agency www.brlets.co.uk

Battersea Area

£425 pw £250 Furn/Unfurnished From pw Furnished

Imperial Wharf Area

From£450 £250pw pw Furnished Furnished

Imperial Area Wharf

£600 From £250pw pwFurnished Furnished

| 1/2 1Studio Bedroom | 1Bedrooms Reception||11Reception Bathroom 1 Bathroom Parking | Gym | Near| Amenities 24hr Porter | |Lift | Balcony | Garden EPC - D

| 1/2 1Studio Bedroom | 1Bedrooms Reception| |11Reception Bathroom 1 Bathroom | Gym | Near Balcony | Lift||Parking Near Kings Road | EPCAmenities -D

| 1/2| Bedrooms | 1| Reception 2Studio Bedrooms 1 Reception 2 Bathrooms 1 Bathroom | Parking Gym| Parking | Near Amenities Balcony | 24hr Porter ||Lift | EPC - B

Kensington 020 Knightsbridge 0207938 75813522 2112

Kensington 020020 7938 3522 Imperial Wharf 7348 7620

Area Knightsbridge

kens@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

From £250pw pwFurnished Furnished £650

Area Imperial Wharf

kens@brlets.co.uk iw@brlets.co.uk

From£650 £250pw pw Furnished Furnished

Area Westminster

kens@brlets.co.uk iw@brlets.co.uk

From £250pw pwFurnished Furnished £825

Kensington 020 Knightsbridge 0207938 75813522 2112

Kensington 020020 7938 3522 Imperial Wharf 7348 7620

Kensington 020 Knightsbridge 0207938 75813522 2112

kens@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

kens@brlets.co.uk iw@brlets.co.uk

Area Kensington £1,695 From £250 pw Furnished South pw Unfurnished

Area Chelsea

Kensington 020 Knightsbridge 0207938 75813522 2112

Ten offices open six days a week Monday – Saturday Beaufort Park 020 8732 7980 Canary Wharf 020 7517 6088

BENHAM & REEVES_CH_APR.indd 2

kens@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

City Ealing Hampstead Highgate

020 7213 9700 020 8280 0140 020 7435 9681 020 8341 2335

From £250 pw Furnished £1,850 pw Unfurnished

Hyde Park Imperial Wharf Kensington Knightsbridge

kens@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

020 7402 9866 020 7348 7620 020 7938 3522 020 7581 2112

Area Chelsea

kens@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

£250 pw Furnished £5,500From pw Furn/Unfurnished

kens@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

Dubai Hong Kong India Singapore

19/03/2013 11:57

DUBAI | HONG KONG | INDIA | LONDON | SINGAPORE

The guiding light in London lettings Landlords, with our guidance we can secure you reliable tenants fast - we work closely with respected companies and help hundreds of executives every year, find their perfect rental home in London. As Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest independent lettings-only agency, serving landlords and tenants since 1956, your property couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be in safer hands.

Find your nearest branch at

0800 092 9656 or email info@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings

BENHAM & REEVES_CH_APR.indd 3

22/03/2013 15:16

Offices throughout central London

Dancer Road, SW6

£450,000

Chelsea Reach, SW6

£1,685,000

A beautifully presented one double bedroom second floor flat, situated in an attractive period property. Comprising a bright reception room, kitchen and bathroom room. The property is situated on a popular residential road off Fulham Road close to Parsons Green tube station. EPC=C. Freehold.

Located in the heart of Fulham Broadway in a fantastic new build development, these luxury penthouse apartments offer amazing accommodation with the benefit of underground parking (2 spaces) and roof terraces. Over 90 sold. New build

Fulham Office| 020 7731 2808| fulham@bushells.com

Fulham Office | 020 7731 2808| fulham@bushells.com

Vera Road, SW6

£1,000,000

£409,950

Quietly located off Munster Road, this well presented end of terrace house comprises 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double reception room, modern kitchen and a mature 35ft garden. Munster Village offers a good range of popular local amenities and transport links. EPC=E. Freehold.

Located off Munster Road, close to Parsons Green, this well presented top floor conversion flat benefits from an open Kitchen / reception room, double bedroom, modern shower room & large roof terrace. The property is idea for investment or for a first time buyer. No onward chain. EPC=D. Share of freehold.

Fulham Office | 020 7731 2808| fulham@bushells.com

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bushells.com

Colehill Lane, SW6

£980,000

Located in the heart of Munster Village and a short walk to Parsons Green the property benefits from excellent local amenities, this three storey Victorian end of terrace house offers 4 bedrooms, large reception room, kitchen and a mainly south facing garden. The property requires modernisation. EPC=E. Freehold.

Fulham Office  020 7731 2808 fulham@bushells.com

Munster Road, SW6

£999,950

Bushells are delighted to offer this wider than average Edwardian family house located on the ever popular Munster Road, near the junction of Ringmer Avenue. accommodation comprises: double reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, ground floor shower room, 3 double bedrooms, family bathroom and a beautiful west facing garden. EPC=E. Freehold.

Fulham Office  020 7731 2808 fulham@bushells.com

part of the Edmund Cude group

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Islington  West Hampstead BUSHELLS.APR.indd 2

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OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD CHAPTER STREET, SW1P £995,000 Leasehold

An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House Accommodation comprises: semi open-plan modern kitchen and bright reception room that leads out to a fabulous south-east facing 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 roof terrace with skyline views, a smart master bedroom with en suite bathroom and private roof terrace, guest bedroom, family include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and bathroom, and a further bedroom that has been previously used as a dining room. The property beneﬁts from a day porter, underground brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. parking space and is accessed via lift or communal stairs to the sixth ﬂoor. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | Reception Room | Open-Plan Kitchen | Master Bedroom Suite | Two Bathrooms | Two Further Bedrooms | Two Roof Terraces | Underground Parking over six acres of land

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OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD PALACE PLACE, SW1E £3,850,000 Leasehold

An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House Entering the apartment you are instantly met with the inspired combination of luxurious and opulent design. The grand reception room 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 is an ideal setting to relax and unwind infront of a ﬁlm or the latest televised sports match, whilst the open-plan designer kitchen makes include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and having friends over for dinner a more sociable experience for both host and guests. Once everyone has gone home, retire to the brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space. beautiful master bedroom suite complete with a dressing area and a beautiful bathroom. Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | Large Open-Plan Reception Room | Three Bedrooms | Three Bathrooms | Balcony | 24 hour Concierge over six acres of land

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26/03/2013 16:24

PAULTONS SQUARE, SW3 £3,950 PW

An exceptional family house that has under gone complete refurbishment with an extended sub basement. Large reception room, conservatory, study, huge media/TV room, fabulous kitchen, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, cloakroom, large rear garden, access to square garden. Excellent quality throughout. John D Wood & Co., 020 7352 8111; johndwood.co.uk

LIVING

Absolutely THE MOST LUXURIOUSLY APPOINTED PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET IN OUR MANOR

THE DREAM

CADOGAN STREET, SW3, £4.95m

A substantial white stucco fronted 5 bedroom house which has undergone a complete renovation and offers well laid out family living accommodation. Set over five floors this beautiful home boasts Luxury specifications, Vault storage, a paved garden three reception rooms and 4 bathrooms. Strutt & Parker, 0207 225 3866; struttandparker.co.uk

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PROPERTY

CRAVEN STREET, WC2N £5,250,000

A prestigious and unique Georgian, built circa 1720, freehold home is located in an enviable position. Set between two iconic landmarks in the heart of Central London namely Covent Garden and Victoria Embankment. In recent years this home has been the subject of a spectacular program of refurbishment, spanning five floors (with lift) and measuring approximately 4810 sq ft. Ellis & Co, 020 7354 0909; ellisandco.co.uk -

CATHERINE PLACE, SW1E £2,500 PW

A luxurious classically furnished two bedroom flat with full five star hotel services included, close to Buckingham Palace. A wonderful central location within minutes of Victoria or St. James Park Station and the delights of St. James Park and Green Park. The property is lateral with its own entrance and superb dining area, and roof terrace. Jackson Stops & Staff, 020 7828 4050; jackson-stops.co.uk

PRINCES GATE, SW7, £1,350 PER WEEK

Combining traditional architecture, period charm, a contemporary interior and an exclusive central London address in prestigious Princes Gate. This Victorian conversion in Grade II listed, white stucco fronted building comprises of living space that has been completely transformed to create a home that is both modern and elegant, featuring a light and spacious double height reception with tall sash windows, a crisp white kitchen, two double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms. Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings, 020 7581 2112; brlets.co.uk

CADOGAN SQUARE, SW1, £4,950,000

A fourth and fifth floor duplex apartment in this impressive Grade II listed building situated on the north of garden square. The flat provides views over the tree-lined square as well as access to an exceptional south facing non-demised roof terrace. Engel & Völkers, 020 7584 1100; engelvoelkers.com 147

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Holland Park Office: +44 (0)20 7727 5111 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

Queensdale Place, W11

Lettings: +44 (0)20 7727 5222

jackson-stops.co.uk/London

ÂŁ1395 per week Unfurnished

Charming family house with large eat-in kitchen, three bedrooms, further study/baby room, two bathrooms, cloakroom and established private garden. Located in a quiet street close to the amenities of Holland Park and two central line stations. Available mid-March. Unfurnished. EPC rating = E

Holland Park Office: +44 (0)20 7727 5222 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast find 51120

41 offices covering the UK London office: 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

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18/03/2013 12:22

Lansdowne Court, W11

Asking price ÂŁ625,000 Leasehold

A beautifully presented immaculate ground floor flat conveniently situated in a very sought after quiet residential area in Holland Park. The apartment benefitting from polished wooden floors comprises a double bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and reception room. EPC rating = D

Holland Park Office: +44 (0)20 7727 5111 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Fast find AB51265

18/03/2013 14:44

Pimlico Office: +44 (0)20 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

Winchester Street, SW1V

www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London

ÂŁ1,490,000 Share of Freehold

A superb chance to purchase a beautifully designed three bedroom house in Pimlico. Extending to c.1500 sq. ft., the property has undergone total refurbishment and is presented in turn key condition. With three bedrooms and three bathrooms, this property also benefits from amazing open-plan living as well as a split level reception room. The house is fully equipped with state of the art technology, including a fully integrated AV system, scene lighting and an off-street scooter parking space. EPC Rating = B Pimlico Office: +44 (0)20 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast Find: 48014

41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

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27/03/2013 10:46

Victoria Street, SW1H

ÂŁ600 per week

A lovely second floor flat in this period mansion block in Westminster, within minutes of Victoria or St. Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Park stations. Reception room, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom, courtyard, porter. Available end of March. Furnished. EPC Rating = C

Pimlico Office: +44 (0)20 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk

JSS.PIMLICO.Apr.indd 2

Fast Find: 46420

27/03/2013 10:46

Chelsea Office: Sales: +44 (0)20 7581 5881 | Lettings: +44 (0)20 7581 8431 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

Godfrey Street, Chelsea, SW3

www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London

Price on Application Freehold

Situated on one of the most popular streets in Chelsea, just off Chelsea Green, this is a most charming Chelsea property with tremendous potential. The current owners have received planning permission to excavate and construct a new basement converting the entire ground floor of the curtilage. Reception room, kitchen, dining room, master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, guest bathroom, utility cupboard, terrace. EPC Rating = E Chelsea Office: +44 (0)20 7581 5881 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast Find: 50868

41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU

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Ormonde Place, SW1W

ÂŁ2,750 per week

A charming four bedroom house, situated in a secluded private garden square in the heart of Belgravia. 3 reception rooms, kitchen, 4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, WC, garden, garage. Available now. Unfurnished. EPC Rating = D

Chelsea Office: +44 (0)20 7581 8431 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Fast Find: 51060

26/03/2013 16:39

PROPERTY

LUXURIOUS

LETTINGS PARSONS GREEN

SW6

DETAILS ÂŁ2,400 Per Week

CONTACT Hamptons International, Chelsea 020 7717 5331; hamptons.co.uk

superbly renovated five bedroom family house over-looking Parsons Green. The property has excellent entertaining space with two large receptions rooms as well as a separate dinning room. Each of the five bedrooms is accompanied with its own bathroom and all are

finished to exacting standards. A good sized private garden can be accessed through bi-folding doors from one of the reception rooms. The property has beautiful views directly over the Green and is situated just a short walk from Parsons Green tube station and the many amenities that Fulham and New Kings Roads have to offer.

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04/03/2013 17:35 26/03/2013 04/03/2013 13:36 17:35

£?

We value you and we’d love to value your property. In this fluctuating market, wouldn’t you like to know what your property is worth? Contact your local D&G office without delay.

£4,500,000 Freehold Draycott Avenue SW3 A stunningly updated four/five bedroom low-built house whose exterior belies the space, layout and style of its interior.

4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (2 en-suite), 2 large reception rooms, Kitchen, Study, Cloakroom, Garden, Vault, 6 month full aftercare package, EPC: C.

Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk

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26/03/2013 16:46

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ2,850,000 Share of Freehold Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gate Place SW7 An immaculately presented ground and first floor maisonette in the heart of South Kensington.

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room with open plan kitchen, Terrace, Access to communal gardens by separate negotiation, EPC : E.

Kensington Gate Sales 0207 581 1152 kengatesales@dng.co.uk

D&G LETTINGS_Chelsea.APRIL.indd 3

26/03/2013 16:46

Can I see your licence? Every single D&G office has NAEA 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).

£1,650,000 Leasehold Elm Park Gardens SW10 A newly refurbished and bright two bed two bath fourth floor (top – with lift) flat in a converted sandstone brick period building overlooking the square gardens.

Master bedroom with en-suite shower room, Second bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Dining room, Communal garden, Lift, EPC: F.

Chelsea Sales 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk

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26/03/2013 16:47

douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ895,000 Share of Freehold Ongar Road SW6 We are delighted to offer to the market this fantastic two bedroom, two bathroom flat located moments from West Brompton.

Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Second double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room with open-plan kitchen/dining room, Cloakroom, Roof terrace, EPC: D.

Fulham Sales 020 7731 4391 fulhamsales@dng.co.uk

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26/03/2013 16:47

The Holy Grail The next generation of property apps is here. The all new updated D&G iPhone App version 2.0 is now available for download from the Apple App Store.

ÂŁ1,650,000 Leasehold Wetherby Place SW7

A bright, three bedroom split-level flat situated within this prominent corner building.

ÂŁ795,000 Share of Freehold Mirabel Road SW6

A wonderful four double bedroom flat located moments from Fulham Broadway.

D&G LETTINGS_Chelsea.APRIL.indd 6

Kensington Gate Sales 020 7581 1152 kengatesales@dng.co.uk

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen. EPC: E.

Fulham Sales 020 7731 4391 fulhamsales@dng.co.uk

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room with open-plan kitchen, EPC: E.

26/03/2013 16:47

douglasandgordon.com

£2,750 per week Unfurnished Roland Way SW7

A newly refurbished mews house that has been finished to the highest specification.

£1,850 per week Unfurnished Shawfield Street SW3

An immaculate family home in this great location Chelsea Lettings: 020 7581 6666 chelsealets@dng.co.uk south of the King’s Road.

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South Kensington Lettings: 020 7584 8888 sthkenlets@dng.co.uk

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, Roof terrace. EPC: B.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen, Garden, EPC: E.

26/03/2013 16:47

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£875 per week Unfurnished Chelsea Creek SW6

A superb penthouse situated within the prestigious Chelsea Creek development.

£700 per week Furnished/Unfurnished Cranley Gardens SW7

An elegant and spacious apartment located close to South Kensington underground.

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Fulham Lettings: 020 7731 4791 fulhamlets@dng.co.uk

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Open-plan kitchen/ reception, Terrace, Parking space, EPC: C.

South Kensington Lettings: 020 7584 8888 sthkenlets@dng.co.uk

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Utility room, Roof terrace, EPC: E.

26/03/2013 16:48

douglasandgordon.com

£625 per week Furnished/Unfurnished Redesdale Street SW3

A beautiful flat in a well maintained period building close to Sloane Square.

£475 per week Furnished Bishops Road SW6

A fabulous flat located on the second floor of a Victorian terrace house.

D&G LETTINGS_Chelsea.APRIL.indd 8

Chelsea Lettings: 020 7581 6666 chelsealets@dng.co.uk

Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Dining area, Kitchen, Patio, EPC: D.

Fulham Lettings: 020 7731 4791 fulhamlets@dng.co.uk

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Roof terrace, EPC: D.

26/03/2013 11:02

S&P Ad Template_Sales LHP:S&P Ad Template_Sales LHP 19/03/2012 18:34 Page 5

Chelsea Fulham Kensington Knightsbridge Notting Hill West Chelsea

Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales

020 020 020 020 020 020

7225 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

3866 7100 3666 9959 1111 1010

Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings

020 020 020 020 020 020

7589 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

9966 7100 3866 9959 1111 1010

struttandparker.com

| Fulham Road | SW6

Winchendon Road | Fulham | SW6

Winchendon Road

2,336 sq ft (217 sq m) EPC rating E

Fulham

fulham@struttandparker.com

2,002of sqthe ft (186 sq impressive m) One most houses off the Fulham Road and a short walk from Parsons Green. 020 7225 3866 An opportunity to purchase an immaculately presented house Hall | Double drawing room | Family room | Kitchen/dining room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Four bedrooms | which has undergone a comprehensive renovation programme.

| Garden

Asking price Asking price ÂŁ1,795,000 ÂŁ2,500,000 Freehold Freehold

Fulham Sales 020 7731 7100

PARKER_OBC.indd 1 STRUTT AND PARKER6.indd 3

Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property. Free QR code readers are available for download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode

25/03/2013 15:50 18:18 21/06/2012