Absolutely Chelsea, Fulham, Notting Hill & Kensington March 2019 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

CHELSEA & FULHAM

ABSOLUTELY

Chelsea & Fulham MARCH 2019 / Â£3.95

Design

DETAILS

IN THE

STUDIO Behind the scenes with Thornback & Peel

Where architecture meets jewellery

MARCH 2019

WHEEL OF

FORTUNE Ceramic Art London returns

After

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DARK D R A M AT I C L O O K S F O R G L A M O R O U S N I G H T S ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 22/02/2019 14:24

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents

MARCH 2019

98 14

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

FOOD & DRINK 54 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

AGENDA

58 RECIPES

10 things we’re coveting this month

Diary dates for March

20 CERAMIC ART LONDON

The international pottery show returns for 2019

28 DREAMING OF DIOR The V&A's fabulous new fashion show

FA S H I O N 32 THE SHOOT

Dramatic eveningwear at Net-a-Porter

40 CHALK FACE

Architect Malaika Carr's graphic jewellery

News from the industry

Spring dishes from The Borough Market Cookbook

INTERIORS 68 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News and views from the world of design

THORNBACK & PEEL

In the studio with the design duo

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

77 DECO DELIGHTS

Art Deco is never out of style

K I D S & E D U C AT I O N DINNER DRAMAS

How to eat out with children... and enjoy it

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 45 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL This month’s best beauty buys

T R AV E L 98 SURF STORY

Hitting the waves in North Devon

ON THE COVER net-a-porter.com

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

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RESTORING AND REPLACING TIMBER WINDOWS AND DOORS

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES GROUP SALES MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN

Conservation Area and Period Property Specialists

MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY EDITORIAL INTERNS JADA DE CINQUE, ROSIE REYNOLDS

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@zest-media.com

First Floor, 197 City Road, London EC1V 1JN T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

01344 868 668

www.sashwindow.com

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Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e

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5 LETTER HABITAT

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ABSOLUTELYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S March issue highlights

THE CHALK HOUSE

Jewellery by architects. page 40

Bauhaus-inspired looks for 2019 page 74

ou know that the worst is over as soon as the first daffodils go on sale. And now that we're into March, spring is officially here, and with the onset of spring also comes Ceramic Art London, the contemporary ceramics event that grows popularity and scope every year. This year will see more than 90 potters and ceramicists from around the world gathering at Central Saint Martins to show their wares, which range from classically beautiful pieces to bizarre, conceptual creations that stretch the boundaries of what we might expect from ceramics. Also stretching boundaries is architect Malaika Carr, whose fixation with architectural details and angles has led to her creating a collection of jewellery based on bits of buildings. We were fascinated to talk to her about designing both houses and earrings. Also in this issue we are admiring the amazing Gillian Anderson and Lily James, on stage together in the fantastic All About Eve (for which everyone should book tickets now), swooning over the V&A's marvellous Dior exhibition (anyone looking for mother's day gifts could do worse than giving tickets for that) and loving the current taste for Art Deco. We hope you enjoy the issue.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

CERAMIC ART LONDON

Pots for pot heads page 20

4 MINI RODINI

A new London store for Sweden's finest kidswear page 88

3 ALL ABOUT EVE

Gillian Anderson and Lily James together on stage. page 25

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

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

St yle icon TV presenter and fashion icon Laura Jackson lends her standout style to Warehouse in a versatile collection for spring. The exclusive edit mixes fresh colours on delicate fabrics, perfect for day-to-night dressing and urban city living. warehouse.co.uk

SPRING BRIGHTS This wonderfully golden blouse from Joie is the perfect transitional piece to add to your spring capsule wardrobe. We love it with pale denim. £275; harveynichols.com

Out of this world Endlessly versatile yet fashion forward, Marcella London’s Moon bag is the perfect style piece for everyday outﬁts. The champagne colour-way is easy to style, day or night. £275; marcellalondon.com

WILD AT HEART Take a fragrant voyage along a winding river with the Wild Flowers & Weeds collection from Jo Malone London. The tangy sting of nettles, weeping willow and alluring hemlock all feature in the collection made of ﬁve gorgeous limited edition scents. £49; jomalone.co.uk

H E L E N B R OW N

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

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES In the Know The brand on everybody’s lips is Zeynep Arçay. Based in Istanbul, Zeynep Arçay is a smart, sophisticated collection of edgy silhouettes, created for the modern woman. Expect a timeless, sophisticated aesthetic that is both strong and feminine. zeyneparcay.com

CASHMERE COMFORTS Madeleine Thompson combines the sumptuousness of cashmere with a contemporary silhouette in this ultrasoft Akiva jumper. £295; madeleine-thompson.com

EARN YOUR STRIPES De La Vali's 'Suki' dress has already been seen on the likes of Behati Prinsloo and Pandora Sykes. Made from silk-satin, this version from the Spring '19 collection is updated with a striking tiger print. £325; net-a-porter.com

COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS Beautifully complex and aromatic, this Chamomile Gin Liqueur blends an exceptionally smooth gin with a carefully selected recipe of ﬂowers and herbs. Sweet honey and delicate ﬂorals add character and depth to a variety of cocktails. £18; silentpooldistillers.com

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EDITOR’S PICK

SHEARLING CHIC The Chaos Shearling Clutch Bag is crafted from beautifully soft champagne sheepskin and has been generously designed to house all of the essentials. £550; shop.chaos.club

ABOUT FACE Parisian label Isabel Marant works lavish pieces into the modern woman's wardrobe. Conversationstarting and stylish, these gold-tone brass face stud earrings will add a pop to any ensemble. £95; farfetch.com

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What’s On 18 • Ceramic Art London 20 • Theatre Review: All About Eve 25 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda

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

BA LLET

Victoria

MICHAEL CAINE 1965 © DAVID BAILEY. COURTESY GAGOSIAN

26-30 March SADLER’S WELLS Passion, tragedy and ﬁerce devotion come together as Northern Ballet bring to life to diaries of Queen Victoria. Her irrepressible love for Albert sparked a royal dynasty, but his untimely death brought the world’s most powerful woman to her knees with grief. The story is retold 200 years after Victoria’s birth, by the award-winning company that brought us Jane Eyre. Rosebery Avenue, EC1R; northernballet.com

EXHIBITION

DAVID BAILEY

THE SIXTIES 14- 3 0 MA RC H • GAG OSIAN

David Bailey’s bold and iconoclastic style has made him one of the world’s most renowned living portrait photographers, raising him to the same starry heights of his stellar sitters. This carefully curated selection of Bailey’s works embodies the effervescence and energy of London in the 1960s. 17-19 Davies Street, W1K; gagosian.com

A RT

The Other Art Fair 14-17 March TRUMAN BREWERY The Other Art Fair is the leading artist fair for art lovers to meet and buy direct from the very best emerging and undiscovered artists. It returns to Brick Lane for four days jam-packed with 140 incredible artists and a tightly curated and distinctive programme of fair features that will create a platform for the ‘unexpected’. 91 Brick Lane, E1; theotherartfair.com

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

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

AROUND

A RT

K ALEIDOSCOPE From 15 March S A AT C H I G A L L E R Y Nine international contemporary artists working across a variety of mediums showcase their work in Kaleidoscope, a major new exhibition at Saatchi Gallery. Laura Buckley’s interactive large-scale kaleidoscope, Fata Morgana will dazzle and disorientate. alongside dynamic paintings from Tillman Kaiser and tempestuous seascapes from Whitney Bedford. Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3; saatchigallery.com

TOWN C E L E B R AT E

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 8 March VA R I O U S L O C AT I O N S International Women’s Day takes place every year to celebrate and commemorate the countless achievements of women around the world. As ever, there’ll be events taking place across the capital including the unmissable WOW Festival at London’s Southbank Centre. southbankcentre.co.uk

EX H I B I T ION

ANDY WARHOL POLAROID PICTURES

This Month’s Must See

Ongoing BASTIAN Andy Warhol Polaroid Pictures is the inaugural exhibition at Bastian’s London space showcasing a series of over 60 portrait and self-portrait Polaroid photographs by Andy Warhol. Featuring artists, actors, politicians and friends of his eccentric Factory entourage, the exhibition offers an intimate portrayal of New York in the 1970s and 80s during the establishment of a new visual culture. 8 Davies Street, W1K; bastian-art.co.uk

F E S T I VA L

FRANKENSTEIN

11-17 March VA R I O U S L O C AT I O N S With hundreds of events taking place in one jam-packed week, London Book and Screen Week is the capital’s biggest celebration of books, ﬁlms, TV and the written word in all its forms. londonbookandscreenweek.co.uk

5- 23 MARCH • ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

ove, grief and the desire for power over death fuel a tragic spiral of events in this revival of Liam Scarlett’s ﬁrst full-length ballet, an adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic gothic novel. The production forms part of the Royal Opera House’s spring 2019 season, also featuring Romeo and Juliet, Berenice and Faust. Bow Street, WC2E; roh.org.uk

C E L E B R AT E

ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL 15-17 March T R A FA L G A R S Q U A R E Join the Irish as they celebrate St Patrick’s Day with lively celebrations, events and activities in Trafalgar Square. Expect ﬂamboyant pageantry, elaborate ﬂoats, marching bands and more. Trafalgar Square, WC2N

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

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JILL SHADDOCK Individual Vessel Grouping Multilayered slipcast. Parian, body stain and transparent glaze. From Â£25

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

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ARTS & CULTURE • CERAMICS EDDIE CURTIS Kurinuki Technique (hollowed from solid) Vessel; Stoneware; Frosted celadon glaze; £1400

DEREK WILSON Constructed Vessels. Thrown and assembled stoneware/porcelain with coloured engobe exterior. £790-£1400

PAULA BASTIAANSEN untitled porcelain work

HOT P OTS Ceramic Art London returns with its vast display of all things clay

ROGER COLL TRIAS REDSL1801 Modelled, slipcast and sanded Stoneware

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Wo r d s E V E H E R B E R T

n recent years, the ceramics world has exploded any lazy preconceptions of being a crafty backwater, with booming markets and rising demand for everything from unique, hand crafted tableware to highly collectable art pieces. Returning for its 15th year this spring, the hotly anticipated Ceramic Art London is the ultimate fair to see and buy the finest ceramics being made in the world today. Organised by the Craft Potters Association who have invited over 90 of the best makers from around the world - including from the UK, Ireland,

Germany and Spain and as far afield as South Korea and Japan - the fair takes place in the spacious central concourse of Central Saint Martins’ Grade 2 listed Victorian granary building. Visitors can also take time out from shopping and meeting the makers to attend the always fascinating ClayTalks series which, this year, features a keynote speech by V&A Director Tristram Hunt and an appearance by celebrated ceramic artist Kate Malone. In a new event for 2019, visitors get to see sparks fly at The Kiln House, a temporary outdoor kiln which will be located at the nearby Skip Garden. This year sees a shift towards showcasing more work by makers whose practices are deeply rooted in the sculptural. First time exhibitors to look out for include self-taught Korean ceramist Miho Inagaki, whose textural, wall-based mesh works resemble cracked earth and Paula Bastiaansen, whose translucent porcelain creations have an ethereal fragility about them. Among the returning artists are David Binns, who draws on contemporary A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LONDON CHILDREN’S BALLET presents

Ballet Shoes Based on Noel Streatfeild’s timeless novel

4-7 JULY

London Children’s Ballet’s stunning production of Ballet Shoes comes to the Peacock Theatre this July. Ballet Shoes is the enduring tale of the determined Fossil sisters, Pauline, Petrova and Posy, who vow to put their family name in the history books. Through Madame Fidolia’s School of Performing Arts, they enter an exciting world full of ups and downs, learning important lessons about life and themselves on the way. Ballet Shoes is filled with inspiring characters, beautiful choreography and is a sure-fire hit for the whole family. London Children’s Ballet is a performance company and charity that has been developing beautiful full-length ballets in the West End for 25 years. With allchild companies packed full of potential future dance stars, the productions are the perfect way to introduce children to ballet, set to the music of a live orchestra. Through the creation of original West End ballet productions, LCB gives talented young dancers from all backgrounds the chance to be part of a professional ballet company. “Until last week I had never seen a children's production. My baptism was wonderful thanks to the London Children's Ballet.” Clare Balding

“Absolutely enchanting performance from the London Children’s Ballet… Amazing children. Wonderful Show.” Stephen Fry

“…you have to pinch yourself to believe this was a children’s show.”

4 July Première Gala Tickets from £45 020 8969 1555 londonchildrensballet.com

5-7 July Tickets £14 - £65* 020 7863 8222 peacocktheatre.com

Photo © Pedro Ferrer

Independent on Sunday

*£3 transaction fee applies for phone and online bookings. No charge in person at Ticket Office.

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ARTS & CULTURE • CERAMICS

SASHA WARDELL Group of 3 Bone China 'Shoal' pieces Slip cast double-layered and incised technique £250 & £150

MIHO INAGAKI Red Hanging Reduction firing by wood; Stainless mesh, Clay, Chamotte. Iron glaze, £340

THIS YEAR SEES A SHIFT TOWARDS SHOWCASING MORE WORK BY MAKERS WHOSE PRACTICES ARE DEEPLY ROOTED IN THE SCULPTURAL RICHARD PHETHEAN Oval teapot and beaker black earthenware, brushed slips, clear glaze, £275 and £40

IKUKO IWAMOTO Pofupofu & Spiky Tall vases slipcasting with hand decorations & Lucie Rie base glaze £1,600 each

architecture and natural forms to create expertly glazed vessels in gorgeous hues of jade, Nuala O’Donovan, whose anemone-like forms are inspired by nature’s irregular beauty and Sewon Minn with her gloriously eccentric designs. Rowena Brown presents her ceramic house sets inspired by abandoned crofters’ cottages in the Hebrides, while the multi-award winning Grainne Watts returns with her sensually shaped and intensely coloured vessels and sculptures. Prices start at £27 for one of Yuta Segawa’s miniature vases, or £35 for one of Elly Wall’s hand painted pastel cups, to £6.5K for one of Ashraf Hanna’s sublime vessels. ClayTalks, a dynamic talks series featuring prestigious names from the world of ceramics and beyond, is programmed in partnership with Central Saint Martins and takes place throughout the weekend.

Booking in advance is essential for this popular series. Past speakers have included Grayson Perry, Keith Brymer Jones and Phoebe Cummings. ClayTalks highlights include a Keynote Address by V&A director Tristram Hunt, and talks by celebrated ceramic artist and Great Pottery Throwdown judge Kate Malone, design and craft writer Grant Gibson, ceramic artist Mella Shaw, gallerist Joanna Bird, ceramics collector Preston Fitzgerald, terracotta specialists Darwen Terracotta and artist and maker collective Haptic Tacit. Over the weekend, The Kiln House – located at The Skip Garden, the sustainable urban garden adjacent to Central Saint Martins – offers visitors the chance to witness ceramic firing in an outdoor setting. C E R A M I C A R T LO N D O N 2 0 1 9 22-24 March, Central Saint Martins, 1 Granary Square, N1 ceramicreview.com

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27/06/2018 16:22

CULTURE • THEATRE

ROUND UP

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

The Importance of Being Earnest 27 February - 16 March

MUST SEE

TARA THEATRE

Mistaken identities, confusion and cucumber sandwiches come together in this innovative new take on Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest. Two British-African women bring to life the 19th century witty classic which on the surface is a light jib at the nonsensicalness of the upper class, but at a deeper level, is a profound plea for sincerity in the face of adversity. 356 Garrett Lane, SW18; tara-arts.com

By H E L E N B R O W N

Emilia

From 8 March VAUDEVILLE THEATRE

Following a sell-out run at Shakespeare’s Globe, Morgan Lloyd Malcom’s entertaining new play returns to tell the tale of writer, teacher, poet and mother, Emilia Bassano. Said to have been The Dark Lady of Shakespeare’s sonnets and one of literature’s ﬁrst female voices, her story, until now, has gone untold for centuries. 404 Strand, WC2R; nimaxtheatres.com

Richard III 13-31 March

ALEXANDRA PALACE

Tom Mothersdale (The Glass Menagerie; Cleansed; John) will take on Shakespeare’s iconic villain, Richard III in a brand new collaboration production between Headlong, Bristol Old Vic and Alexandra Palace. Decades of civil war leaves the nation hanging in the balance. With his sights set on the crown, so begins the bloody and manipulative campaign of Richard, in his attempt to change the course of history. Alexandra Palace Way, N22; headlong.co.uk

EMILIA

Betrayal From 5 March

HAROLD PINTER THEATRE

Two of the country’s most exciting young stars, Zawe Ashton and Charlie Cox, will join Golden Globe, Olivier and Evening Standard Awardwinner Tom Hiddleston in Harold Pinter’s Betrayal. With poetic precision and rich humour, the production charts a compelling seven-year romance in reverse chronological order. Panton Street, SW1Y; pinteratthepinter.com

Equus

Until 23 March STRATFORD THEATRE EAST

Award-winning director Ned Bennett brings Peter Shaffer’s psychological thriller Equus to the stage in a bold new production. When teenager Alan Strang’s pathological fascination leads him to blind six horses, psychiatrist Dr. Martin Dysart is tasked with uncovering his motive. Inspired by a true story, Equus explores the complex relationships between devotion, myth and sexuality. Gerry Raffles Square, E15; stratfordeast.com

BETRAYAL

EQUUS

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22/02/2019 09:59

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05/02/2019 12:30 22/02/2019 16:04

CULTURE • THEATRE

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

All About Eve Ivo van Hove reinvents the 1950 cinema classic for the stage, starring Gillian Anderson and Lily James By PENDLE HARTE

he 1950 film All About Eve belongs to the cinematic canon for its story of ego, friendship and rivalry and for Bette Davis’s unforgettable performance as Margo Channing. This stage version by Ivo van Hove is at once a faithful rendition and a new imagining, with its clever use of live filming and projected images adding a further dimension to the stage format. It’s an exciting and stylish show, full of excellent performances and clever staging. Gillian Anderson’s Margo may be a little hard to accept as a fading beauty – she looks amazing – but Lily James is youthful and suitably innocent-seeming as Eve. The script is near enough exactly the film’s, and

at two hours with no interval, it’s about the same length too. From the start, knowing the film doesn’t detract at all from the intense emotion conveyed throughout, with the audience at all times in tune with Margo’s insight into Eve’s motivation even while nobody else is. Monica Dolan gives a standout performance as Margo’s best friend Karen, an outspoken personality who is ultimately blackmailed by Eve in an intense and cleverly crafted bathroom scene that takes place offstage yet is projected to the audience while the other characters have dinner on stage, in a stage equivalent to a split screen scene. In many ways it’s a story about the fear of ageing, highlighted by a terrible scene where Margo’s face, magnified in close-up on a projector, appears to age rapidly as

Knowing the ﬁlm doesn’t detract at all from the intense emotion she watches in horror. Anxiety over being replaced by a younger generation is an eternal theme and in all, the production conveys a sort of timelessness, even though its fundamental concepts of ego and self read very differently now. “It is just as false not to blow your horn at all as it is to blow it too loudly,” says Addison DeWitt when he sees through Eve’s act, revealing a presocial media attitude that seems sweetly innocent in our world where people blow their own horns loudly all the time.

VERDICT

Stylish, entertaining and clever ★★★★★ ALL ABOUT EVE UNTIL 13 JULY Noel Coward Theatre;

allabouteveplay.com

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YVES SAINT LAURENT IN FRONT OF CHRISTIAN DIOR LONDON, 11TH NOVEMBER 1958 © POPPERFOTO/GETTY IMAGES

J ’A D O R E

DIOR A Absolutely previews the V&A’s new look at Christian Dior Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

CHRISTIAN DIOR BY JOHN GALLIANO (B.1960), HAUTE COUTURE, AUTUMN/WINTER 2004 PHOTO © LAZIZ HAMANI DIOR HÉRITAGE COLLECTION, PARIS

s the V&A’s first major fashion exhibition since McQueen in 2015, Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams has been highly anticipated. The first show in the V&A’s new Sainsbury’s wing, this is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition ever staged in the UK on the House of Dior. Based on the major exhibition Christian Dior: Couturier du Rêve, organised by the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, the exhibition is reimagined for the V&A by curator Oriole Cullen, with an entirely new section dedicated to Dior’s fascination with British culture. Dior is of course most famous for inventing the waist and revolutionising the established silhouette with his New Look in 1947, and it is the well-known Bar Suit – part of the V&A’s permanent collection – which opens the gallery. But there are several focuses to the exhibition, which traces the history and impact of one of the 20th century’s most influential couturiers, and the six artistic directors who have succeeded him, to explore the enduring influence of the fashion house.

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• XXXX CULTURE XXXXX• FOCUS

CHRISTIAN DIOR WITH MODEL LUCKY, CIRCA 1955 COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN DIOR

BACCARAT CRYSTAL BOTTLE DESIGNED BY CHRISTIAN DIOR FOR DIORISSIMO PERFUME, 1956 PHOTO © LAZIZ HAMANI CHRISITIAN DIOR PARFUMS COLLECTION

ROYAL PORTRAIT OF PRINCESS MARGARET ON HER 21ST BIRTHDAY PHOTOGRAPH BY CECIL BEATON (1904–1980) © VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM, LONDON

Dior admired the grandeur of the great houses and gardens of Britain, as well as British-designed ocean liners, including the Queen Mary. He also had a preference for Savile Row suits. His first UK fashion show took place at London’s Savoy Hotel, and in 1952 he established Christian Dior London. The exhibition investigates Dior’s creative collaborations with British manufacturers. It also focuses on his most notable early British clients, from author Nancy Mitford to ballet dancer Margot Fonteyn. A highlight is the Christian Dior dress worn by Princess Margaret for her 21st birthday, on loan from the Museum of London. Drawn from the extensive Dior Archives, the exhibition presents over 500 objects, with over 200 rare Haute Couture garments shown alongside accessories, fashion photography, film, vintage perfume, original make-up, illustrations, magazines, and Christian Dior’s personal possessions. Dior’s total design vision encompassed garments, accessories and fragrances. Flowers are emblematic of the Couture House and have inspired silhouettes, embroidery and prints, but also the launch of Miss Dior in 1947, the first fragrance created alongside the very first show. From horticulture to global travel and 18th-century decorative arts, the show reveals the sources of inspiration that defined the House of Dior’s aesthetic. From the daring designs of Yves Saint Laurent to the rational style of Marc Bohan, the flamboyance of Gianfranco Ferré, t he exuberance of John Galliano, the minimalism of Raf Simons, and Maria Grazia Chiuri’s feminist vision of fashion, the exhibition shows how each successive artistic director has stayed true to Dior’s vision of Haute Couture, while bringing their own creative sensibilities to the House.

CHRISTIAN DIOR WITH MODEL SYLVIE, CIRCA 1948 COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN DIOR

C H R I ST I A N D I O R DESIGNER OF DREAMS continues until 14 July; vam.ac.uk

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www.MarcEllaLondon.com

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FASHION

GIRL POWER K AT E S PA D E

Kate Spade's joyous spring campaign took actresses Julia Garner, Kiki Lane and Sadie Sink to upstate New York for a girls' weekend away. The resulting pictures are colourful, fun and girlie. katespade.co.uk

Stylish evening looks 32 Âˇ Architectural jewellery from The Chalk House 40 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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DRESS TO IMPRESS HEAD-TO-TOE RED CARPET LOOKS WITH NET-A-PORTER N E T- A - P O R T E R . C O M

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ALL AVAILABLE AT NET-A-PORTER.COM

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www.thecouturegallery.com

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Melody Maison Furniture | Mirrors | Home Décor www.melodymaison.co.uk Call: 01302 741000 Use Code: MMAL10 for 10% Oﬀ! Expires 30th June 2019

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Pearly queen Celebrate this Mother’s Day with a pearl

ALIGHIERI

TIFFANY & CO

ALIGHIERI

Passione di Napoli Earrings, £420

Signature Pearls Earrings, £1,800

La Jetée Earrings, £240

alighieri.co.uk

tiffany.co.uk

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TIFFANY & CO

BOODLES

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Aria Bracelet, £14,100

The Knot Long Diamond South Sea Pearl Necklace, £17,500

Clam Shell Earrings, £179.48

tiffany.co.uk

boodles.com

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BY PARIAH

BOODLES

TIFFANY & CO

Sidetracked with Pearl, £1,065

Circus Small Yellow Gold Pearl Earrings, £5,500

Aria Necklace, £28,300

bypariah.com

boodles.com

tiffany.co.uk

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

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P U E P A S

Absolutely quizzes architect and jeweller Malaika Carr about the interaction between buildings and bling

Q: How did you start incorporating architectural elements into jewellery design? A: Having studied architecture, my mind has been trained to see things in a particular way. I tend to see buildings as a puzzle, a series of components that can be broken down. I extract these components and start forming shapes. I rotate, dissect and adapt the elements until they start to look like something that can be worn. Q: Which came first, architecture or jewellery design? A: Architecture came before the jewels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it was only while studying for my masters in architecture that I realised I wanted to design jewellery. I used the modelling techniques and skills that I learnt at university to start testing jewellery ideas.

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FASHION • Q&A

I see buildings as a puzzle, a series of components that can be broken down. I extract elements and start forming shapes

Q: What is it about Ricardo Bofill that translates into jewellery? A: I discovered Ricardo Bofill’s building, Walden 7, on a trip to Barcleona and really admired its boldness. I was amazed by the volume, the intimate balconies, the imaginative use of colour, materials and sculptural forms – and I instantly saw shapes that I started sketching which later translated to the collection Shaped Objects. I was heavily influenced by curves, vertical lines in the tiles and colour palette. Q: Which other architects are you interested in? A: I love the work at the practice I am currently working at, Michaelis Boyd (not just being biased). I really enjoy the projects I work on. I am also really into Studio Ashby’s work – I love what she has done to her husband Charlie Casely Hayford’s shop and their new home. I also adore Carlo Scarpa’s work and I used his works as inspiration to my Arco pieces which are made from precious metals. Q: In your own work as an architect, are you thinking about jewellery? A: In some ways yes: the skills of designing a piece of jewellery and, say, a joinery piece are totally transferrable. I like details and try to bring this into the architectural spaces I work with.

Q: Which materials do you like to work with? A: I am known for using walnut, acrylic and formica. The walnut forms the structure and gives it a rich warm texture, and this contrasts with acrylic, which adds a pop of colour to animate the piece. I think the two work well together as a material palette. I have more recently started to use sterling silver to experiment with more three-dimensional pieces. Q: And can you describe your signature style? A: Chalk is known for its bright bold statement pieces that elevate a look. I like to think Chalk is unique, eclectic and contemporary. thechalkhouse.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Chelsea’s best kept secret. Our surgeons are transforming the way hips are being replaced. The Lister Hospital is a centre of excellence for anterior minimally invasive surgery (AMIS); a muscle-sparing anterior hip replacement technique. From preparing for treatment at our ‘Joint-Schools’ to expert-led treatment and rehabilitation, we offer the full breadth of CQC rated ‘Outstanding’ orthopaedic care.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

MODERN MUSE ARMANI BEAUTY Multi-award-winning actress and UN goodwill ambassador, Cate Blanchett is the ultimate modern day role model. She also plays beauty muse for Giorgio Armani as the first global beauty ambassador of the house and face of Sì fiori, the brand's latest eau de parfum launch. armanibeauty.co.uk

Beauty notes 45 • Anti-pollution skincare 47 • Perfume 49 • Mother's Day 51 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

Brightening masks, a new Chanel launch and yoga with Sophie B y H E L E N B R OW N

CLASS

FITNESS SPOTLIGHT

ACT

Core Collective

SOPHIE'S FITNESS

Sophie Dear is a London yoga teacher helping people find health, happiness and balance. Three years ago Sophie swapped the brutal hours of an Assistant Director in TV for a more nourishing lifestyle. She has never looked back. Sophie teaches studio, private and online classes. For all events, workshops and retreats please visit her website:

B y R AC H E L AV E R Y

sophiesﬁtness.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

SKIN FOOD

I R E N E F O R T E S K I N CA R E

Every ingredient in Irene Forte Skincare - from the olive oil to the fruits and flora - are grown on Rocco Forte’s Organic Farm. We love this face mask enriched with pomegranate extract, aloe vera and avocado oil for its hydrating and brightening properties. Pomegranate Face Mask, £99; ireneforteskincare.com

PASSING OF TIME CHANEL

This season Chanel is celebrating the year 1957 with an elegant new scent of the same name. Why 1957? It's the year of Gabrielle Chanel’s consecration in America, but also 19, the day of her birth, and 57, to signify the reopening of the East 57th Street New York City boutique. Les Exclusifs de Chanel 1957 Eau de Perfume, from £155;

Take your yoga up a gear with a Power Yoga class at Core Collective WHAT IS IT? This is exactly the ﬁrst question we had when we were invited to try the class. In fact, we broke into a sweat just thinking about it... But, put simply, it’s a more intense version of a normal yoga class. The same ﬂows, but with a few harder moves thrown in, along with longer holds.

WHY TRY IT? If you ﬁnd yourself leaving your usual yoga class wanting a little bit more and you’re ready for a challenge, this is the class for you. It’s a great way to work on strength and ﬂexibility at the same time. And, let’s face it, a class that can do two in one is a winner, right?

WHERE? Power Yoga classes are held at both Core Collective studios and timetables can be found at core-collective.co.uk

INTRO OFFER FIVE CLASSES FOR £50. Knightsbridge: 23 Pavilion Road, SW1X 0HD. Kensington: 45 Phillimore Walk, W8 7RZ

chanel.com

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

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Discover the home of gift lists. Townhouse now open, 312 Fulham Road.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND CHANEL D-Pollution Essentiel, £48; chanel.com

SKINCEUTICALS C E Ferulic Acid Face Serum, £135; skinceuticals.co.uk

SUNDAY RILEY CEO Rapid Flash Brightening Serum, £70; cultbeauty.co.uk

NATURA BISSĒ Diamond Cocoon Deep Cleansing Mousse, £77; net-a-porter.com

PAULA’S CHOICE Defense Cleanser, £19; paulaschoice.co.uk

DR. BARBARA STURM Anti-Pollution Drops, £105; harrods.com

DRUNK ELEPHANT

SARAH CHAPMAN SKINESIS

C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream, £54; cultbeauty.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

Liquid Facial D-stress, £42; lookfantastic.com

URBAN JUNGLE

DR. BARBARA STURM Anti-Pollution Food, £85; spacenk.com

The best beauty products to protect your skin in the city B y ROSIE REYNOLDS

LIXIRSKIN Vitamin C Paste, £32; libertylondon.com

ALPHA-H Vitamin B, £39; cultbeauty.co.uk

ELIZABETH ARDEN PREVAGE® City Smart SPF 50 Hydrating Shield, £55; johnlewis.com

ALLIES OF SKIN KIEHL’S Cilantro & Orange Extract Pollutant Defending Masque, £34; spacenk.com

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1A All-Day Pollution Repair Mask, £87; harrods.com

KYPRIS Antioxidant Dew Hydrating Serum, £69; contentbeautywellbeing.com

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY â&#x20AC;˘ SCENT

PERFUME

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a SPRING THING Scents for the new season B y M I C H A E L D O N OVA N

s I type, the leaf buds are bursting, the birds are nesting, there is the distinct hum of spring in the air and one can almost smell the sap rising. It is, by far, my favourite time of the year when there is so much to look forward to and it is also the perfect time to revise one's fragrance wardrobe and select scents that will shine in warmer weather. Just like clothing, our perfumes need to be regularly revised and updated and so a spot of olfactory spring-cleaning is called for! For the new season think crisp and translucent, a tailored, white cotton shirt, navy Capri pants and sling-backs; casual sexy with tremendous style. Greens and sylvan notes with citrus accents work wonderfully in the spring as they are both celebratory yet diaphanous. "Floral's? For spring? Groundbreaking." While Ms Streep may have had a point, there is actually a new breed of fresh, naturalistic scents that use single stems as their inspiration. These modernist musings eschew the rather 'busy' and opulent confections of yesteryear in favour of something far more bucolic. Take the soft whisper of 'Lilac and Mimosa' by Alveraz Gomez - this is a light cologne that uses these incredibly beautiful spring blossoms to optimum effect. The central notes are incredibly seductive, but added energy is imparted with a very clever combination of bergamot and neroli. This is a fragrance to put spring in one's step and a smile on the face and cannot be over-applied. A more intense mimosa experience can be had at the House of Pryn where apple blossom, green quince and yellow pear dance across French mimosa for the most joyous of olfactory

experiences. 'Le Mimosa' makes you want to take your shoes off, sink your toes into dew-drenched turf and boogie! March is also the first month when we have to mow the lawn and I for one have missed the scent of sweet, green grass which is most vivid at this time of the year. There is something really uplifting about this smell and very British - it speaks of childhood and pleasure. 'Soft Lawn' by Imaginary Authors and 'Oxford 'by Ruth Mastenbroek realise these emotions perfectly and transport us to the garden or park in seconds. The former uses ivy leaves and linden blossom to conjure the scent of leisure while the latter utilises a deliciously fresh combination of herbs, including basil, clary sage and rosemary, to create a dreamscape of rolling hills and the shadows beneath church spires. 'Posh On The Green' from Atkinsons is an homage to the clipped, well-tended British lawn - the cricket square, Wimbledon's centre court and the Polo field and blends coriander and petit grain with the earthy citrus of geranium leaves. It is the scent of a rather smart garden party and makes one want to dress up a little. White Peacock Lily by D.S. & Durga and Heeley's 'Hippe Rose' take two classic flowers and re-invent them for the 21st century. The Lily's opulent sweetness is downplayed with a brush of grapefruit pith, alabaster violet and a delicate waft of mist in the form of ambrette seed. I adore 'Hippie Rose' as it is such a free spirit almost daring you not to be totally captivated by the free-wheeling beauty of the queen of flowers. This is sunshine and warm wind, a Californian beauty with flowing tresses and tanned skin. Green moss and bergamot deftly caress the delicate petals of the Bulgarian roses, coaxing them into the air for this is, undoubtedly, the scent of freedom! A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Baby care the natural way

Reclaim motherhood as a positive, stress-free experience

Through our online training with local consultants,Babyopathy can help nurture more babies from conception, through pregnancy, birth and throughout babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first years. for more information visit

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

VERDANT ALCHEMY Drift Off Bath Oil, £32 verdantalchemy.co.uk

HAECKELS Hand Care Rituals Gift Set, £49 haeckels.co.uk

AXIOLOGY Vegan Lipsticks, £25; gloworganicbrighton.co.uk

LOQUETLONDON.COM

GORGIAS LONDON Complete Night Repair Oil, £44.95 gorgiaslondon.com

EYM Rose, Geranium and Camomile Candle, £39 eymnaturals.com

MERCI MAMAN The Duchess Necklace , £119 mercimamanboutique.com

MOTHER LOVE

NAZAN SCHNAPP Sublime Hydrating Treatment Essence, £61 jolie.co.uk

Don’t forget that allimportant Mother’s Day gift SOL Hand-blown Reusable Coffee Cup, £19; trouva.com

LIEWOOD Dora Weekend Bag in Rusty, £42 beyondthestork.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

PARCEL LONDON Girl’s Night £57 parcel.london.com

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

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

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FOOD & DRINK

BEST OF BRITISH ADAM HANDLING CHELSEA

Bookings are open for Adam Handling Chelsea. The stunning restaurant from the criticallyacclaimed chef encapsulates the ‘Best of British’; taking a sustainable and delicious approach to British luxury. 75 Sloane Street, SW1X 9SE adamhandlingchelsea.co.uk

Food notes 54 • Recipes 58 • Food review 64 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this March By FLORA THOMAS

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2016 Berry Bros. & Rudd Chianti Classico by Badia a Coltibuono  £15.95 Perfumed aromas of red cherry, wild herbs and a spicy complexity lead to a dense palate laden with ripe fruit and freshness. The tannins are integrated and polished, framing a generous ﬁnish. Perfect with grilled meats or pasta dishes.

2017 BeaujolaisVillages, Lantignié, Alexandre Burgaud  £13.50 Expect lifted aromas of violets and red berries, lashings of juicy fruit on the palate, and a long, mineral ﬁnish – a nod to the protrusions of blue granite throughout Alex’s vineyards. It makes a mouth-watering apéritif.

2016 Ca’ del Magro, Custoza Superiore, Monte del Frà, Veneto  £14.50 Produced from a blend of grape varieties including Trebbiano, this wine is golden with an enveloping bouquet of grilled nuts and yellow peach. The white stonefruit character is lifted by mineral notes - would work well with roast chicken. BERRY BROS. & RUDD Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's.

bbr.com

SKY’S the LIMIT S K Y LO N R E S TAU R A N T

A new menu has arrived at riverside restaurant, Skylon. Not only has the food been revamped, the interiors have been refreshed, following executive chef Helena Puolakka’s arrival in September last year. Diners can expect expertly-sourced produce from around the UK, like the Cobble Lane Cured charcuterie platter, featuring meats cut, cured and smoked in Islington. Belvedere Road, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 skylon-restaurant.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Our pick of the best

FEMALE CHEFS FOR IWD

E M I LY R O U X

Back with a bang

Emily Roux, daughter of Michel, opened Caractère late last year with her partner, Diego Ferrari. Born in 1991, Emily is the youngest of the Roux dynasty to make her mark on the culinary world. Emily runs frontof-house at Caractère: “Two head chefs in the kitchen is just too much.” caractererestaurant.com

TAMARIND MAYFAIR

It opened in 1995 and was the ﬁrst Indian restaurant to win a Michelin star in 2001. Now, after a considerable eight-month rebuild, Tamarind Mayfair is open for business. The new interior boasts hand-painted glass ceilings and an elegant, members-club aesthetic. Highlights from the menu include ﬁery tandoori prawn balchao and pistachio crusted grilled lamb chops. 20 Queen Street, W1 tamarindrestaurant.com

TASTE OF TAMIL OOT Y

The new ﬁne-dining restaurant is named after a hill-station in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The menu features delicacies from all over south India that have been carefully crafted to retain their authenticity, and presented creatively by head chef Manmeet Singh Bali, formerly head chef at Michelin-starred restaurants Rasoi and Vineet Bhatia London. 66 Baker Street, W1 ooty.co.uk

SELIN KIAZIM Selin Kiazim is a Londoner of TurkishCypriot heritage. The chef opened Oklava in Shoredtich in 2015 with Laura Christie to critical acclaim; it's an open-kitchen, stone-oven, charcoal-grill affair. Kyseri is Selin and Laura's latest venture, this time in Fitzrovia, in their effort to push the boundaries of traditional cuisine. oklava.co.uk / kyseri.co.uk

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

Jungle fever

A .O.K. KITCHEN AND BAKERY

YOPO AT THE MANDRAKE

S K Y E GY N G E L L

Brand new Yopo has replaced Serge et Le Phoque at The Mandrake Hotel. The menu takes inspiration from the Venezuelan jungle plant the restaurant is named after; expect a fiery selection of gutsy dishes, served in a modern space flooded by light and flora. Look up to see the hand-painted ceiling mural; look out to see hanging jasmine and passion flowers in the courtyard. 20-21 Newman Street, W1 yopo.london

The Australian chef cut her teeth as food editor at Vogue. She went on to work at The French House, then in 2011 won a Michelin star at Petersham Nurseries Cafe. 2014 saw the opening of Spring at Somerset House where Gyngell and her team serve a distinctively seasonal menu. springrestaurant.co.uk

The new restaurant, bar and bakery in Marylebone is inspired by the sunsoaked shores of the Mediterranean and California. Expect fresh juice-spiked cocktails, sugar-free bakes and an opulent vibe. 52-55 Dorset Street, W1 aokkitchen.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LISA’S KITCHEN & BAR

Happy Hour every Wednesday & Thursday 6PM - 8PM & 10.30PM - 11.30PM

50% OFF ALL HOUSE BEER, WINE & COCKTAILS

LIVE MUSIC

THURSDAY: Jazz FRIDAY & SATURDAY: Lisa’s Jukebox

LUNCH SET MENU

THURSDAY & FRIDAY 12.00-15.00, 2 courses £15 and 3 courses £18

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

Adam HANDLING at The Belmond Cadogan Hotel

Experience contemporary British cuisine as never before

aving opened its doors on 28 February, the much-anticipated hotel/restaurant Adam Handling Chelsea offers an innovative culinary journey that celebrates Britain’s rich history and the iconic Belmond Cadogan Hotel building. Combining his passion for London’s vibrant culture with his distinctive cooking finesse, Adam has devised a set of stunning à la carte dishes for the luxurious restaurant alongside a signature tasting menu, both are available for lunch and dinner. Fans of Adam’s Frog restaurants in Covent Garden and Hoxton won’t be disappointed, as his renowned signature creations ‘cheese doughnuts’ and celeriac ‘mother’ dishes are mainstays on the

menu at Adam Handling Chelsea. They sit alongside exclusive new dishes which use the finest seasonal produce, including: Highland wagyu beef, braised onions, smoked bone marrow; Scottish scallop ceviche, green tomato; lamb Wellington, carrot and mint; and langoustine with pink grapefruit. Ultimately, the menu at Adam Handling Chelsea showcases a fundamental commitment to sustainable practice, with a focus on championing smaller producers and a seasonally-changing menu. As Chef Patron, Adam is not only looking after the spectacular main restaurant at the Belmond Cadogan Hotel, but the entire food and beverage offering throughout the luxury hotel. From the bar and room service to banqueting and private events, Adam has crafted imaginative and sophisticated culinary concepts for every stage of your stay at the Belmond Cadogan hotel. The hotel’s elegant tea lounge, Cadogan’s by Adam Handling, offers a show-stopping

“I don’t want to be the best restaurant in the world—I want to be the locals’ favourite in Chelsea” - A DA M H A N D L I N G

two-hour afternoon tea experience not to be missed. Nine months in development, Adam and his elite team of pastry chefs have put together a unique afternoon tea concept, inspired by childhood memories of plentiful, delicious feeding at Adam’s grandmother’s house. The unique tea features some of the most intricate and memorable offerings in London, freshly prepared each day and accompanied by the finest luxury teas and champagne. The bar offers a similarly exquisite and imaginative hospitality experience. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Adam and his team have devised elevated versions of classic cocktails, using the finest British ingredients with minimal fuss. Also available is an extensive wine and spirit collection, as well as a memorable bar snacks menu, including a traditional British cheese and charcuterie selection. Whether a guest at the exquisite hotel or looking for your new favourite dining spot in Chelsea, book your table now and experience Adam Handling’s culinary flair at the Belmond Cadogan Hotel. A DA M H A N D L I N G C H E L S E A BOOKINGS: reservations@adamhandlingchelsea.co.uk OPENING HOURS: LUNCH Daily 12:00 – 14:30 DINNER Daily 18:00 – 22:30 AFTERNOON TEA Daily 13:30 – 17:30 75 Sloane Street, Chelsea, SW1X 9SG adamhandlingchelsea.co.uk

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Market

PORTERS Spring recipes from the Borough Market cookbook Wo r d s E D S M I T H

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

LAMB MEATBALLS IN YOGHURT, PEA AND HERB BROTH S E RV E S 4

hese minted lamb meatballs in a light broth, studded with sweet sugar snap and mangetout peas, feels exactly like the kind of thing we ought to be eating at this time of year. Serve the broth with something savoury and nutty like quinoa, or wholemeal grains such as pearl barley or bulgur wheat. Light pasta such as orzo or linguine work well too.

F O R T H E M E AT B A L L S • 500g lamb mince • 100g ricotta • 50g dry breadcrumbs • 1 garlic clove, crushed • ﬁnely grated zest of 1 lemon • 1 large egg • leaves picked from 30–40g mint, ﬁnely shredded • ½ teaspoon sea salt • ½ teaspoon black pepper

FOR TH E B ROTH • 600ml vegetable stock • 3 bay leaves • 1 garlic bulb, cut in two through the middle • 350g mixture of sugar snap peas, mangetout and freshly podded peas • leaves stripped from 15g chervil, roughly chopped

GOAT’S CHEESE REDCURRANTS AND PISTACHIO CRUMB SERVES 6

METHOD 1 Mix together all the meatball ingredients in a bowl, keeping a quarter of the shredded mint to one side, then get your hands dirty and roll the mixture into balls about the size of a walnut: 20–25g each if you’re into measuring. Arrange the meatballs on a baking tray and, if you have time, refrigerate for 1 hour or more. 2 Around 30 minutes before you plan to serve, heat the oven to 150C fan/170C/325F/gas mark 3. Once the oven’s hot, bake the meatballs for 10 minutes. 3 At the same time, bring the vegetable stock, bay leaves and garlic to the boil in a wide saucepan, then reduce the temperature and simmer for 5 minutes. 4 Transfer the baked meatballs to the stock and poach for 5 minutes before adding the sugar snaps, mangetout and fresh peas. 5 Simmer for a further 2 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat and leave the greens to warm through and the broth to cool a little. 6 Stir the chervil and remaining mint through the broth and meatballs, then serve with a grain, seed or pasta of your choice, and a dollop or two of yoghurt to stir through the broth.

oat’s milk and goat’s cheese are well represented at Borough Market. This dessert is akin to a build-your-own cheesecake, where sharp and tangy fresh goat’s cheese is sweetened and rounded by ﬂoral honey, and joined by tart redcurrants and a calming, green pistachio crumb.

INGREDIENTS • 100g shelled unsalted pistachios • 40g plain ﬂour • 25g caster sugar • 50g salted butter, melted • 30g icing sugar • 200g soft, fresh goat’s cheese (chèvre) • 230ml double cream • 60g runny honey (something ﬂoral) • seeds from 1 vanilla pod • 1 punnet of fresh redcurrants

METHOD 1 Start by making the pistachio crumb. Preheat the oven to 120C fan/140C/275F/

gas mark 1. Put 80g of the pistachios, all the ﬂ our and caster sugar into a food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. 2 Combine with the melted butter, then use a fork to spread the crumbs out in the baking tray – they should be about 50 per cent loose, 50 per cent packed into tight clusters. 3 Bake for 45 minutes–1 hour until dry and ﬁrm. Remove from the oven and leave to cool, then mix the crumb with the remaining whole pistachios and store in an airtight container until required (these will keep well for a few days at least). 4 Put the icing sugar and goat’s cheese in a bowl and use a spatula to beat until smooth. Add half the cream and whip this into the mix, then the second half, together with 30g of the honey and the vanilla seeds. 5 Beat until well combined and thick. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. 6 Encourage everyone to build their own cheesecake, beginning with a heavy spoon or two of the cream-cheese mix, then drizzling with honey and scattering with redcurrants and a few spoons each of pistachio crumb.

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

WHIPPED HOT-SMOKED SALMON WITH SPRING CRUDITÉS S E R V E S 6 -1 2 A S A D I P

number of the market’s ﬁshmongers stock thick wedges of hot-smoked salmon, which sit proudly like rose gold bullion – like those of Oak & Smoke, from a centuryold smokehouse in Arbroath, Scotland. Though ready and willing to be ﬂaked into a salad or sandwich, the salty, smoky edge is particularly good when whipped up with dairy to something akin to a taramasalata, and served with fresh and crunchy vegetables or thin crackers. As such, this dish makes an excellent canapé or informal start to group feasting.

INGREDIENTS • 200g hot-smoked salmon • 200g full-fat crème fraîche • 2–3 tablespoons full-fat Greek yoghurt • grated zest and juice of ½ lemon ¹⁄5 nutmeg

TO S ERVE • selection of seasonal crudités, such as chicory leaves, radishes and their leaves, 1–2cm-thick slices of fennel, cucumber, young carrots or other bright and crunchy fresh vegetables • cracker bread

METHOD Peel the skin from the salmon and discard. Flake the ﬂesh into a food processor and add the crème fraîche, 2 tablespoons of the yoghurt, the lemon zest and juice. 2 Blitz for 30 seconds or more until light and smooth. 3 Taste, then season with freshly grated nutmeg, black pepper and salt (take care with the latter). 4 Blitz again, taste and season for a second time, adding the remaining yoghurt if you think it could be a touch looser. Serve with a selection of seasonal crudités and cracker bread. 1

“This dish makes an excellent canapé or informal start to group feasting”

Recipes taken from The Borough Market Cookbook by Ed Smith, published by Hodder & Stoughton

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET

What to drink and how to drink it

fabulous

FIZZ

By PENDLE HARTE

THREE OF THE BEST CHAMPAGNES

PERFECT PAIRING

B y T H E C H A M PAG N E G U R U

Dom Pérignon Vintage Rose 2005, £250 With 96 Points from Robert Parker, UK’s no 1 Wine Advocate, this champagne has a bracing vinosity. It has remarkable length in the mouth, with a touch of licorice, bitter blood orange, fig and strawberry, and later revealing taste of guava, violet, vanilla, cocoa and toasted spices.

B E R RY B R O S X FA R M I S O N

Farmison & Co’s award-winning heritage breed meat from the north of England makes for a perfect pairing partner to some of Berry Bros. & Rudd’s enduring and enticing wines. Pictured is the Farmison & Co’s Pork Rack Box, containing a trimmed rack of free range pork partnered with Berry Bros. & Rudd’s 2017 Chablis by Domaine du Colombi, £40 farmison.com

Beau Joie Champagne Special Cuvée Brut, £74 This champagne is encased in a 100% recyclable copper armour design that means once cold, it doesn't need to be kept in an ice bucket. With 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, it has a perfect balance of dryness and sweetness resulting in a clean, crisp taste from start to finish.

BRIT POP H U S H H E AT H

The home of award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé is open to visitors and wine lovers to experience tours and tastings. Hidden away in beautiful Kent countryside near Staplehurst, the Estate produces one of England's most delicious sparkling wines using the Traditional Method.

Champagne Bonnaire Vintage 2009, £38

hushheath.com

SCENT BOTTLE MUYU

Muyu, a new range of luxury liqueurs. combines a boutique perfume attitude with a cocktail philosophy. Muyu is created in an entirely unique way offering a fresh, clean flavour profile. The three flavours are Jasmine Verte, Chinotto Nero and Vetiver Gris pourdrink.org

This family-owned champagne estate has made its own champagne since 1932. Their vintage 2009 is an excellent champagne with a nose full of candied fruits and fresh white flowers, combined with mineral and buttery hints. THE CHAMPAGNE GURU The Champagne Guru is a champagne and food pairing expert, specialising in hosting special champagne events in luxurious surroundings.

thechampagneguru.com

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“It’s a relaxed, beachy vibe, all rattan and driftwood”

Bucket

Seafood, beach hut style, in Westbourne Grove

FOOD Seafood. Not all in buckets.

B y PENDLE HARTE

irst off, it has to be said that Bucket is at best an inelegant name for a restaurant. At worst it’s bordering on barbaric, making us think of farmyard slops or Full Moon Party cocktails. But in fact Bucket is neither about local produce nor Thai decadence, instead channelling a relaxed beach hut vibe, all rattan and driftwood. We sit in a cabanalike booth, on bamboo seats covered liberally with cushions as if it’s a tropical seaside lunch, only the outlook is of Sainsbury’s across the road. The theme is laid on quite thick, but we forgive it because it’s comfortable and staff are super

DECOR friendly. The buckets that give the place its name are made of copper and filled with seafood, it soon emerges. It’s all about fish here and everything is sustainably sourced. The bucket idea is about flexibility: buckets of calamari, prawns or mussels come in two sizes designed as starters, mains or tapas, depending on how much you like sharing. We go for buckets as starters: mussels with white wine, garlic, parsley and cream, and calamari. They’re both good, particularly the calamari which has just the right degree of crispiness and no rubberiness at all. A vast assortment of dips includes citrus mayo, garlic aioli, harissa,

Driftwood beach hut meets Scandi modern

PRICE Small buckets from £9; Mains from £14

VERDICT Comfortable, friendly and

seaweed mayo and more, all of them high class. But best of all is a simple taramasalata with grilled sourdough: light and subtly smoky yet intensely moreish. We had to order more bread, even though we had snuck in a few oysters too, good fat and fresh ones, served elegantly. My main is a board of langoustines, piled high with large and juicy shellfish, a good salad and roast hunks of courgette. Bizarrely and to my annoyance, my partner orders a steak, which happily comes with a skewer of grilled king prawns and perfect fries. We should really have had the special Sunday fish roast, a whole baked halibut that’s served all day. For pudding there’s apple crumble and custard – perhaps not what we would have expected from the seaside shack, but encouragingly not in a bucket and billed as being big enough to share. This being no lie, we share away. In all, we like Bucket for its friendliness, its sustainability and its comfortable vibe, even if the decor is a little confusing. And the food’s pretty good too. BUCKET 107 Westbourne Grove, W2; 020 3146 1156

bucketrestaurant.com

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KEEP IT CLASSIC Our menu features modern European classics (with a twist). Join us at the bar or book a table for breakfast, lunch or dinner. percyandfounders reservations@percyandfounders.co.uk

1 Pearson Square, Fitzrovia, London W1W 7EY

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The home of the

HOUSE PROUD

luxaflex.co.uk

Luxaflex® Showrooms: Curtain Call, Richmond: 0208 332 6250 • Abbott’s, Roman Road: 0208 980 4158 • Ashtead Interiors, Ashtead: 01372 271 010

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INTERIORS

SOUND OF SILENCE S I L E N T W I N D OWS BY H U G O CA RT E R

Fed up with the flight path? Silent Windows by Hugo Carter ensures that sound sleep starts where the plane noise ends, so restore tranquility to your home. silentwindows.co.uk

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Interior inspirations 68 • In the studio with Thornback & Peel 70 • Bauhaus 74 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS NOTES

Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE

COLOUR WATC H FARROW & BALL X THE RUG COMPANY

New to the collection of rugs in Farrow and Ball shades is this carefully devised mid-tone Bay Blue rug that comes in three different textures, all hand-loomed in Nepal. Other new additions include Portobello Pink and Leighton Teal. therugcompany.com

STATEMENT

PIECE

BELLA FREUD X GILLIAN WEARING

Bella Freud and Gillian Wearing came together to work on pieces inspired by Suffragist leader Millicent Fawcett and her campaign, from which partial profits are donated to the Fawcett Society. So for International Women's Day, why not treat yourself to a Suffragette City teapot? plinth.uk.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

EDITOR’S PICK

MONOCHROME A selection of our favourite pieces

DECOVILLE Amsterdam neutral wallpaper, £150 decoville.co.uk

BLOOMSBURY SHADES

FLOCK FABRIC

ANNIE SLOAN

ERCOL X FLOCK

Ercol has teamed up with forward-thinking British textile brand, Flock, to create a collection of limited-edition chairs. Showcasing two brand-new fabric designs on ercol’s awardwinning Marino chair, the range will be available to buy at Heals in spring. £1,995. ercol.com

CARAVANE Segaya cushion, £70 caravane.co.uk

Annie Sloan's collaboration with Charleston has resulted in three colours inspired by the incredible home of the Bloomsbury group. highly decorated rooms within the British farmhouse: Rodmell, Firle and Tilton. anniesloan.com

TULIBEE Yay knitted blanket, £79 tulibee.co.uk

CARAVANE Jaspero crockery, from £27 caravane.co.uk

POTTERY POLITICS BREXIT WARE

WHITE BLACK GREY Geometric tile coasters, £20 whiteblackgrey.co.uk

CARAVANE Neroli crockery, from £15 caravane.co.uk

Hard, soft or scrambled? Brexitware is a collection of ceramics launched soon after the 2016 referendum. What will you have for breakfast on 29 March? Egg cup pair, £21 brexitware.com

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IN THE STUDIO Thornback and Peel, in their own words I n t e r v i e w F LO R A T H O M A S

JULIET THORNBACK AND DELIA PEEL are a British design duo. I visited their studio in Bloomsbury to quiz them on their success. How did you meet? DP: We were set up by a mutual friend - I was in the middle of a set-design job at a theatre and there was some down time between shows. I wanted to do some printing and I’d heard that Juliet was brilliant at making bags. So we met at The French House in Soho and decided to design and sell a collection of bags. JT: We invited all our friends to a private view. We’d made tote and evening bags, printed with anatomy: we had brains, gold teeth… we used lots of gold foiling and geometric prints. Lots of little beetles and bees. I was working in a florist, and on days off we’d do some printing and I’d go home and start making it up. But it was too labour intensive. We thought about what might be marginally less labour intensive - what’s flat? Deckchairs came next. DP: We did some tea towels. We were still printing everything ourselves. We did so for a really long time, way beyond when we should have stopped. When we had children we started to get some help; I was on maternity leave so we had an assistant

- Juliet was pregnant at the time as well. She could barely reach the press over her pregnant belly. Over the course of five years we passed the business between us. Once with just two weeks of handover. Where were you selling your items? DP: Initially we continued to do private views. They’re great. People are kind but they’re honest! Then Liberty approached us. JT: We were in Deptford at Cockpit Studios, they do an Open Studio twice a year and a buyer from Liberty came along one summer and saw our work, they asked us for some cards, then we did our first trade show. DP: We sold to Family Tree in Exmouth Market too, initially it was lots of little shops which allowed us to understand the structure and the process of selling to stockists.

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INTERIORS • Q&A

DELIA PEEL AND JULIET THORNBACK

How did people react to your work? JT: We were slightly out there with our designs. DP: I think now people would immediately take to it but it wasn’t mainstream back then. We had an American agent who said that one buyer literally picked up a cushion, saw what she thought was a cockroach and chucked it across the aisle at a trade show. Where do you find inspiration for your designs? JT: It might be that we’ve been away for the weekend and seen something we love… and thought ‘that’s it’. Or we’ll think ‘right, we need to do something seasonal’ and go from there. We can only have one or two new designs a year, so it’s about editing what we have down to something we can make rather than coming up with ideas. DP: Sometimes we look at our collection and think it’s not an obviously coherent mix of designs, and that’s fine by us. We love it. The ideas always come during downtime. Take our blackbird, there’s heaps of nostalgia in it. It comes from walking the kids to school: there’s a little blackbird on our route. The new cactus and bird print, as well as the pineapple, came from looking at Victorian hothouses and going to Kew. The inspiration for the rabbit and cabbage was obviously Beatrix Potter. I grew up with a walled garden, so memories from my childhood end up on the page. Ideas often come when reading stories to our children. The tea cup design is inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Tell me about the design process. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • Q&A

JT: Some of it is existing imagery that we doctor. 19th century engravings, for example, which are copyright-free. DP: Then we draw into them. So take our blackbird, for example: when we found him he was very long – far too long – so we’ve squashed him up a bit. With our pea print, we found a beautiful old engraving and added the curly tail which is actually a from a pig in a previous design. It’s all very Frankenstein. Sometimes we have to redraw things because it’ll be too fine to print. Then it goes back and forth from page to table to computer. Placing designs on products takes up a lot of our time. While some designers make a print, usually a fairly small repeat, then make heaps of fabric to cut up to make different things, we need the quality of line to be spot on, so we design each item individually. JT: We’ve really thought about the placement of things. It’s slightly a rod for our own backs. We like to think it sets us apart. When the samples come in and they’re beautiful it’s a lovely moment. Our cactus has been a really easy ride, because it came out perfectly first time. Tell me about your collaborations and limited editions. DP: Over the years we’ve collaborated with lots of really exciting people. One of our first collaborations was with the wonderful Conran Shop. We did a couple of seasons: the first was a utensils range, then some products on the theme of gardens. JT: They were exclusives for Conran so they came and went. The designs were of spoons, weighing scales, sugar tongs… on tea towels, aprons and placemats. Some elements were mixed up, so you’d have a fork where a fork is meant to be, but pliers in place of a knife. It was a really exciting time. We designed some banners for their shop which was really Delia’s forte - very theatrical.

DP: We designed deckchairs for Sarah Raven; exclusives for Oliver Sweeney; we’ve worked with GOOP, designing some bespoke tea towels. JT: Gwyneth (Paltrow) asked us to create exclusive designs for her shop. It was a knife – her father’s knife, an apple, an American flag and a pirate. What are you most proud of? DP: We continue to work with Fortnum and Mason on exclusives. It’s brilliant, it’s lovely going into the shop and seeing our designs. JT: It was an amazing brief - they have some beehives on top of their shop and they asked us to create a design featuring them. We love it and it has continued to sell really well. What are your plans for the future? JT: We want to do a cookbook! Our styling is so food-orientated. DP: We’re working on a wallpaper and fabric project for this year, which we hope to launch in September, so we’ll see.

Sometimes we look at our collection and think it’s not an obviously coherent mix

thornbackandpeel.com

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Grate Expectations - A Family run business established for over 30 years The UK’s leading suppliers of luxury gas ﬁreplaces, wood burning stoves and bioethanol ﬁres manufactured by DRU, Spartherm, Ebios, Dik Guerts, Gazco, Stovax and many more.

1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, SW20 8JT 020 8540 8387 | sales@grateexpectations.com | grateexpectations.com

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WI DE ANG LE MINI MODERNS

Mini Moderns' new wallpaper collectino, Culture! draws on the design duo's love of midcentury art, design and architecture. This Bauhaus design features some of Walter Gropiusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most well-known architecture, as well as symbols of the Bauhaus movement - the circle, triangle and square. minimoderns.com

BAU HAU S ST YLE 100 YEARS AFTER THE B A U H A U S S C H O O L O P E N E D, I T S I N F L U E N C E I S S T I L L F E LT Words P E N D L E H A R T E

S POT ON DAR LIGHTING

If the Bauhaus ambition was to unite the principles of fine art with those of functional design, then this pendant lamp is a good illustration. The simple yet precise aesthetic combines works well with decorative bulbs. Sion chandelier, ÂŁ78 wayfair.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

M ETAL H EADS HABITAT

Cooper is Habitat's new statement armchair with a skinny metal frame that easily allows light to flow through the design, giving the sense of more space within a room. It follows the Bauhaus principle of minimal and clean lines in a distinctive colour. £495 habitat.co.uk

G ET TH E G LOW DAR LIGHTING

The Black & Opal Glass Izyan pendant has a simple and authentic Weimar feel. £89 oceanlighting.co.uk

SQUARE DANCE NATUZZI

The Dalton armchair's rigorous design is embellished with visually striking solid wood side frames. It is a result of a collaboration between Professor Roberto Tapinassi and architect Maurizio Manzoni. POA natuzzi.com

COOL CH ROM E ORIGINAL BTC

The London table light features a spun aluminium semi-sphere shade available in black, putty grey, red and yellow with a solid chrome base. Cotton braided flex is woven through the curved chrome arm for a cleanlined, neatly tailored finish. Very Dessau, £469 originalbtc.com

B IG STEEL NATUZZI

With its minimalist lines and special steel frame giving it lightness and harmony, the Cammeo armchair has an urban aesthetic and a morernist feel. POA natuzzi.com

OFF THE WALL DAR LIGHTING

The Andre contemporary wall light features aged brass framework and opal white glass to form a globe, producing a soft and warm light output. The light is operated by a pull cord with matching aged brass ball detail. £38 dusklights.co.uk

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INTERIORS • STYLE ROSS & BROWN

BEAUMONDE

Gold round mirror with black frame, £144 rossandbrownhome.co.uk

Coral glass vase, £18 beaumonde.co.uk

ATKIN AND THYME Toledo console table, £349 atkinandthyme.co.uk

JONATHAN ADLER Malachite vases, £198 jonathanadler.com

SWOON EDITIOS Ziggy sideboard, £649 swooneditions.com

BAR CRAFT Art Deco brass finish ocktail shaker, £19.99 ocado.com

THE GIFTED FEW Light green arch vase, £39.95 thegiftedfew.com

DECO DELIGHT Art Deco is always in style. Here are some contemporary pieces

SUE PARKINSON Antique gold palm leaf table lamp, £225 sue-parkinson.com

B y PENDLE HARTE

EDITOR’S PICK

MINIFORMS Celia sideboard, £3,160 gomodern.co.uk

BETHAN GRAY Jade Shamsian Nizwa cabinet, £9,420 wagreen.co.uk

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

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L O N D O N

- N EW BROCH U R E OU T NOW 0333 011 3333

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INTERIORS • BRAND FOCUS

Sheet music

hat do we expect from our bed sheets? Comfort is an obvious primary demand, but sustainable and ethical production is a growing concern for most of us. Then there’s the issue of choice – too many options and we can be left baffled. And not least, sleeping in a comfortable bed may make us consider the increasing numbers of people who don’t have a bed at all as homelessness in London becomes more and more visible. When Jed Coleman - co-founder of Caravan Restaurants - and Will Coulter former management consultant - founded Rise and Fall as a simple supplier of high quality, fuss-free bedlinen, homelessness was high on their agenda. Built into the business model was a commitment to supporting homelessness charity Centrepoint and now £3 from every set of sheets sold goes directly to the UK’s leading youth homelessness charity, helping to get young people off the streets. Rise & Fall sells two types of sheet only – one softer, the other crisper. Both come with a 100 day risk free trial, so if you don’t find their sheets the ‘most comfortable sheets you have ever slept in’, they’ll refund you fully. The founders work with a partner in Southern India that runs entirely on wind energy, recycles 99% of its water and offers free education and upskilling to its predominantly female workforce. Instead of plastic packaging, the sheets are sold in recycled and reusable materials. Jed Coleman said: “The idea for Rise & Fall came at a time when we were both working long hours – sleep was invaluable,

Absolutely discovers Rise & Fall’s new comfortable and sustainable bed linen Wo r d s PENDLE HARTE

but hampered by uncomfortable sheets that had been treated with harsh chemicals and didn’t fit the bed properly. Further, the whole process of buying sheets (in store, with endless confusing choice) seemed like it could use an overhaul. We just thought there had to be a better way. “After thousands of hours of research, 100s of samples and four continents we settled on two different types of sheet and by cutting out the middlemen and selling online only we have been able to keep prices where they should be.. We’ve also put a lot of time into the smaller details – specially designed thick elastic bands to keep your bottom sheet pulled tight at night, thoughtfully placed labels ensure making the bed is as painless as possible, duvet covers that have extra strong button closures that are easy to do up and pillow cases that use generous envelope flaps to ensure no pillow spillage.” R I S E A N D FA L L www.riseandfall.co | @riseandfallco on Facebook | @ __riseandfall__ on Instagram

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E T

D U

I O

S N I Absolutely celebrates the most colourful, dramatic and exotic interior of all: Leighton House Wo r d s N A N C Y A L S O P P h o t o g r a p h y ÂŠ L E I G H TO N H O U S E M U S E U M , R B KC

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INTERIORS • FOCUS THE NARCISSUS HALL IMAGE COURTESY OF WILL PRYCE

His was one of the most talkedabout houses in the country. He called it his ‘private palace of art.’

he image of the 19th-century artist starving in a garret is an attractively romantic one. But, as attests the Kensington home of aesthete and neo-classicist Frederic Leighton, 1st Baron Leighton, a serious fortune awaited the more successful painters of the age. (A title too, of course, always proved persuasive to the art-buying cognoscenti of the day; and it is unlikely to have been a detracting factor in his appointment as President of the Royal Academy). Whether or not visitors are acquainted with the oeuvre of Lord Leighton, an exploration of the house that was purposebuilt for him by architect George Aitchison speaks of his penchant for the eclectic, the exotic, the colourfully dramatic and the exquisite. Leighton would go on to tinker with it irresistibly over the three decades he lived there, right up to his demise; his was, after all, one of the most talked-about houses in the country. He called it his ‘private palace of art.’ The interior is the more striking for the surprises it presents. For Leighton House’s exterior – all plain, even austere red brick– is most reminiscent of a vaguely forbidding Italianate museum; the sole architectural flourish is a dome (also in red brick), the only hint at the thrilling treasures that lie inside. The sheer scale of those treasures magnifies the surprise and delight once inside. For quite beside his own works, the most famous of which reside elsewhere (Flaming June in Puerto Rico, Cimabue’s Celebrated Madonna Carried in Procession through the Streets of Florence in the National Gallery), Leighton House is, as it was always intended to be, a repository and showcase

for collections amassed from Leighton’s extensive travels, for his art and taste, as well as being his workplace. The whole house is inspired by the artist’s travels in Italy and the Middle East, but the pièce de résistance must, inarguably, be the Arab Hall, which was inspired by a 12th-century palazzo in Sicily. Archways and columns frame vistas through to a spectacular staircase, while deep blue textured antique tiles originally sourced from Damascus supply the high drama. The brick dome you see from the outside is revealed here in all its interior glory, golden and jewel-like. And suspended from it is an ornate gasolier, lighting up the square pool that sits below, as in the houses of grand Romans millennia ago. The golden hues dance in the light and the reflections of the water – all the better for admiring the glimmering glory of its mosaic frieze, designed by Walter Crane and created by legendary Venetian glass-makers, Salviati. Lord Leighton was, evidently, not a man given to understatement. Once visitors have d runk in the splendour of the Arab Hall, the adjoining Narcussus Hall awaits, named for the centrally positioned diminutive and beautiful bronze cast of that self-regarding classical figure. The deep Turkish turquoise on the walls comes courtesy of Arts and Crafts pioneer William De Morgan, great friend of William Morris, for whom the commission A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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ďŹ xed price. interactive design discussion. professional advice on builders, planning & budget. drawings of the proposal . . .

an l us vi

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architectyourhome call for a chat 0800 051 5304 or visit www.architect-yourhome.com

22/02/2019 16:27

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers

Jewellery & Watches Tuesday 19 March Starting at 1pm Catalogue now online

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INTERIORS • FOCUS THE ARAB HALL IMAGE COURTESY OF WILL PRYCE

was an early accolade in his career; the idea for the room, meanwhile, was Lord Leighton’s. Having seen a similar ‘Narcissus room’ among the excavated remains of a house in Pompeii, he once again sought to marry the Italian influence with Syrian, Turkish and Persian touches. At the foot of the staircase stands a stuffed peacock, an embodied metaphor for the house, and a symbol of the Aesthetic Movement to which Leighton subscribed. Also on the ground floor is the dining room, whose jewel box-like theatrical red provides a stage set for Leighton’s ceramics, which hang decoratively on the walls. And it is this that best articulates the purpose of the house; its creation was to house artefacts so avidly amassed over a life. This is not a place that simply accommodates them; they are the point, not least because they so inspired Leighton’s work. While Lord Leighton’s more official entertaining took place downstairs, his guests were, perhaps later in the evening, frequently led upstairs to his studio, the powerhouse of his creativity. In stark contrast to the ornate flourishes and sultry darkness of the more formal ground floor rooms, his studio on the first floor is cavernous and airy, all the better to stretch out his often vast canvases and to see his models, who were provided with a screen and a fireplace behind which to prepare in comfort. It was befitting of a man whose sitters were often eminent themselves, and whose visitors – who counted among their number Queen Victoria herself – even more so. It was here that he held famous musical soirées, and it was, to Leighton, an assembly room of sorts, complete with a minstrels’ gallery.

Lord Leighton was a man of whose interior life little is known; so consummate an entertainer and public persona was he that researchers have uncovered scant details of private passions. But then, perhaps, the clues to his internal machinations are all here, his calling card presented for all to see: his elaborate relics of a welltravelled life, his wit and the comfort he provided as a professional host as contrasted to the plainness of his own bedroom, where a single iron-frame bed differs little from the one in the butler’s bedroom, a cocoon from which a butterfly would emerge daily. Twists and turns of fate led to Leighton House today coming under the auspices of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Following Leighton’s death in 1896, his sisters Augusta and Alexandra attempted to sell it; but an enormous house with only one bedroom had, it transpired, limited appeal. To meet the generous legacies set out by his will, they dispersed much of his collection around the world – Constables and Delacriox paintings were bade farewell to – and so stripped of its raison d’etre, the house fell into a number of odd uses, including as a children’s library for a time. Restoration in the 1980s and 90s, allied with a much larger scale on-going project to reinstate its erstwhile glory have re-established Leighton House as a monument to the tastes and mores of one of the leading figures in Victorian art. THE SILK ROOM. IMAGE COURTESY OF JUSTIN BARTON

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The

ESS ENC E

OF HOME

The contemporary Danish design retailer BoConcept is launching their spring collection of furniture, home furnishings and accessories 84

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INTERIORS • SPOTLIGHT

oConcept’s latest spring and summer collection are based on two trend inspirations the “Simple and Essential” and “Nostalgic Dreams”. Get inspired with their calming palette of colours and natural tones with splashes of soft pastel hues. Everyone loves the transformative effect of statement Danish furniture. The Simple and Essential look is pared back, giving your home a calm expression. Nostalgic Dreams give spaces soft minimalism. Warm touches arrive through near-pastel hues of pink, ochres and delicate greens.

C U S TO M I S E YO U R INTERIOR

When browsing through BoConcept’s designer furniture, there is a whole line of unseen possibilities behind everything you see. You can create your very own unique home with a wide range of customisation available for each product. Customise every detail with BoConcept’s staggering selection of high-quality fabrics and a vast range of finishes. With more than 140 finishes for sofas, dining chairs and bed headboards. As well as a variety of sizes and options across wall cabinets, wardrobes, dining and coffee tables - the combinations are almost endless. There’s no doubt you will be spoilt with choice.

Warm touches arrive through near-pastel hues of pink, ochre and delicate green F U L LY C O O R D I N AT E D COLLECTION

BoConcept world famous international designers work closely together to create a totally coordinated look across their collection of furniture and home accessories. All their products suit a large variety of moods and express current trends.

S PAC E S AV I N G S O L U T I O N S

Becoming clutter-free can be a challenge in the modern way of living. BoConcept is constantly focusing on finding new clever space-saving solutions. The amazing Rubi table can be transformed with a simple action into a working desk and then extend into a dining table seating 8 persons. The Xtra footstool can transform from footstool to become a very sturdy bed. Plus, BoConcept’s range of beds offers excellent hidden storage facilities. These are just a few examples of BoConcept’s transformative furniture.

FREE DE SIGN SERVICE

Whether you need some advice furnishing your entire home or would like some inspiration as to which sofa will work in your living room, BoConcept’s team of highly experienced interior designers are ready to help you create a unique home that matches your personal style. Perhaps you want to create a Nordic mood in the dining room with Scandinavian style sideboards, elegant

dining tables and dining chairs - or a hotel vibe in your living room with sofas, recliner armchairs and daybeds in leather, velvet or your preferred fabric. BoConcept’s design team will advise you in store, or come to your home, take measurements of your space, listen to your needs suggesting fabrics and finishes and produce full 3D renderings showing you how your space could look.

WA L L PA P E R S , C U R TA I N S , RUGS AND HOME AC C E S S O R I E S

In addition to BoConcept selection of Danish furniture and accessories, they offer a coordinated collection of contemporary bespoke curtains and blinds combined with a measuring and fitting service. To complete your stylish home BoConcept have many stunning wallpapers to choose from, the collections are a mix of modern classics, opulent silks, delicate florals and bold geometrics. Finally, you can discover rugs such as luxurious shag and lustrous cowhide or classics like rounds and freeform abstracts to suit all homes. Visit one of their stores and see their wide range of multifunctional design furniture, and get professional advice about modern living and interior design. Stores located at Battersea Reach, Finchley Road, Notting Hill, Tottenham Court Road, Harrods, Kingston, Guildford and now Westfield London or online at boconcept.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION

STUDY SKILS FIGTREE LEARNING Figtree was founded on the belief that tutors have the power to shape futures – the ability to ignite passions and realise dreams. Their tight-knit team of dedicated professionals has built a reputation for educational excellence. figtreelearning.com

Small Talk 88 · Eating out with children 91 · Education 92 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES

SUNSHINE DAYS BOBO CHOSES

Inspired by carefree days in the countryside, the new collection from Bobo Choses is like a dose vitamin D. There’s apple and pear prints, smiling cherries, picnic ginghams and even a playful reference to Paul McCartney’s dog. We love the accessories too, which include wicker baskets and the sweetest clogs. bobochoses.com

B RA N D F O CU S

KAOS

SMALL TALK Mini Rodini comes to London, furniture for climbing and surreal reading

PRINT PARTY

EDITOR’S PICK

MINI RODINI

Mini Rodini is one of Scandinavia's fastestgrowing brands for children, launched in 2006 by illustrator and artist Cassandra Rodini – and now it is opening its flagship UK store at 237 Westbourne Grove this month. Expect new collections and exclusives as well as recycled bits from previous collections. minirodini.com

ON SAFARI

ounded by two Swedish mothers in their spare time, Kaos is often billed as an interiors company, but the diversity of its product range suggests that there is much, much more to it than that. We discovered the brand through its signature product, the Endelos wall bars. Featuring a patented mounting system, these wooden bars are essentially a minimalist climbing frame that can be attached to a wall in your home. Kids love clambering up them, and when not in use they can be accessorised with an assortment of stylish storage modules, including canvas pockets, storage bags and a hook-on tabletop (all of which Kaos also produce). The fixing system avoids any damage to your wall or floor, and the bars can support up to 100kg in weight. Rainy days indoors never looked so good. Elsewhere, the brand make beautiful wooden high chairs that fold almost completely flat when not in use. Kaos is a form-meets-function Scandinavian dream come true. We can’t wait to see what they come up with next. itskaos.com

LISTEN IN

H E L LO M R S E L E P H A N T

THE EAR

by Sam Boughton

by Piret Raud

Little ones will love saying hello to a whole host of amazing African animals, brought to life with deft humour and, vivid illustrations and memorable comparisons in this lift-the-flap book. £8.99

When van Gogh cuts off his ear, it’s left alone and headless. This weird and and wonderful story book, accompanied by beautifully intricate illustrations, invites you on a bizarre journey of selfdiscovery. £9.95.

 templarco.co.uk

 thamesandhudson.com

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18/01/2019 09:06

KIDS & EDUCATION • FOOD

Happy Meals

SANTO REMEDIO

BYRON BURGER

Eating out with children can be fraught. Absolutely tries some restaurants that make it work

BYRON BURGER

his is an obvious one and it comes with a perfectly good if unsurprising kids menu. But we weren’t here for that - we were here for the relaunch of the B-Rex burger which is a monster creation that includes bacon, onion rings, cheese, jalapenos, pickles and bbq sauce. It was good to see our generally bird-like eaters enjoy spicy and supersized burgers in all their sloppy glory, washed down with freakshakes that bordered on the ridiculous, filled with insane mixes of sweets, cream and unidentified additions. Byron is the original and best. byronhamburgers.com

Wo r d s PENDLE HARTE

ating out with children can go either way. A good experience can result in family bonding, the acceptance of new foods and good moods all round, while when things go wrong you can find your own meal ruined as you grapple with anger and embarrassment before going home and making fishfingers from the freezer. Badly behaved children in restaurants is something nobody wants. But as parents we would welcome a slightly wider repertoire than the obvious kiddie choices, and it’s important for children to learn to enjoy eating new foods. So here we visit three very different places with a view to introducing new things, but without taking them too far from their comfort zones. SANTO REMEDIO

COMPTOIR LIBANAIS

his chain is full of appeal. We are in the South Kensington branch and inside it’s colourful, all Fez hats, colourful baskets hanging from the walls and patterned tiles. There are lots of children here and feel is busy, relaxed and informal. There’s an aptly named feast menu that includes all the highlights: baba ghanuj, hommous, falafel and other dips and starters, followed by aubergine tagine, a mixed grill plate, tabbouleh, delicious cheese pastries, gilled halloumi and spiced potatoes. Our children order their own chicken wraps from the extensive kids menu, but are instantly enamoured of the hommous as well as the baba ghanuj and even the beetroot dip. They are suspicious of aubergine tagine but reluctantly give it a go, and we have to stop them from eating all our grilled meat. A children’s puding of rose-flavoured milk pudding goes down very well, as does the home made lemonade. In all, this is a winner: authentic food that’s child-friendly without being dumbed down. comptoirlibanais.com

ike Lebanese food, much of Mexican food has an obvious appeal for children. Tacos, tortilla chips, melted cheese and guacamole are all crowd-pleasers, but a good Mexican eaterie is heavier on flavour than stodge. Santo Remedio started life as a pop-up before finding a permanent home in Tooley Street and it’s a stylish outfit with a strong focus on authenticity. We’re here for the new Sunday brunch menu, which is small and the children are instantly gorging themselves on chips and intensely good guacamole before cheerfully ordering small dishes that we’re told have been popular with children in the past. So there’s a blue corn egg taco with chorizo, melted cheese and a fried egg, and a corn parcel filled with black beans, mole negro and cheese. Both are moreish and tasty, as are the messy but delicious chicken mole enchiladas and the biggest offering, a pork belly baguette with salsa and pickled onions. But best of all are the sweet pan de muertos brioches and the doughnuts. santoremedio.co.uk

COMPTOIR LIBANAIS

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

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Up Close And Personal One-on-one tuition can help GCSE and A-Level students as exam season draws near Wo r d s EVE HERBERT

hether it’s in preparation for an exam or for support in a specific subject, increasing numbers of students are looking to private tuition to get ahead. But how do you decide when to bring a tutor on board – and more importantly, what should you look for to get the most from your tuition experience? Parents will often turn to a tutor to help their child in a particular subject, with maths, the sciences and languages needing the most support. Once a child starts to

struggle in class, they can easily fall behind – and this can really affect their motivation and confidence. Teachers don’t always have the time to work with students on an individual basis, but with the undivided attention of a private tutor, children can focus on honing their skills at a pace that works for them. Even those that are doing well at school can benefit from the oneto-one support a tutor provides. Increasing reliance on exams – whether as part of the national curriculum or as a gateway to the top schools – is creating a more competitive, pressured learning

“With the undivided attention of a private tutor, children can focus on honing their skills”

ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

environment for even the best students. But the right tutor can help children prepare effectively and calmly, building self-belief that will stand them in good stead far beyond the examination room. This is almost certainly the case for this year’s GCSE and A-Level students, who’ll be sitting more exams than ever before. As exam season rapidly approaches, starting work now with a private tutor can offer a distinct advantage. Alongside the subject-matter expertise they bring, tutors will often recreate the exam experience to help their students feel comfortable and confident when the time comes. But it’s not all about preparing for tests or getting ahead at school. If they’re unchallenged, children can quickly fall out of love with learning. That’s when it can really help to inject some fun back into education, with a tutor that can bring lessons to life in a way that’s right for your child. The ability to tailor sessions is key, as we all learn and thrive in different ways. Whether through online tuition, one-to-one sessions, coaching, mentoring or home schooling, tutoring can unlock new ways to learn that will inspire for years to come. Figtree Learning prides itself on finding the right tutor for its students, diligently tailoring sessions to meet their individual ambitions and aspirations. They believe that tutoring should be a partnership. That’s why they offer a complimentary first session to make sure you’re comfortable with their choice of tutor. If you think your child could benefit from private tuition, get in touch with the team and see how we can help them achieve their full potential. figtreelearning.com

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DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

Open Days

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EDUCATION • OPINION

KENSINGTON PARK SCHOOL STUDENTS

SUCCESS The Head of English at Kensington Park School on why many private schools have opted for the modular IGCSE

n the 2015 GCSE reforms, all coursework elements in English Literature were removed resulting in the entire GCSE English Literature grade being based on the final summer examinations. The change has generated a lot of debate over whether a pupil’s grade should be based solely on examinations. Arguably it should not, which is why Kensington Park School, like many independent schools, has opted to teach the International GCSE (IGCSE) instead, highly valuing its flexibility and suitability for preparing pupils for a modern future. One of the greatest strengths of the IGCSE courses available is the option for pupils to complete coursework. For schools, coursework allows pupils the opportunity to practise their skills in drafting, analysis, and creativity. At

Kensington Park School, we champion imaginative thinking and academic excellence. Coursework allows for pupils to shine, as they can demonstrate their independent learning and creative potential. Equally, it is an element of the IGCSE course which prepares pupils for their later education, as A-Level and university courses will both demand coursework style tasks. I have watched pupils engage passionately with coursework, considering their planning and construction carefully. They enjoy the process, because they understand the purpose for it. After all, our focus as educators is to prepare our pupils for their future; limiting them to an exam-only route arguably does not do this. In a modern education system, we need to be moving back towards an IGCSE system, where flexibility allows teachers to more readily

“Coursework means students walk into exams with more conﬁdence”

ON COURSE FOR

adapt their curriculum and teaching choices to fit the students they care for. Furthermore, an exam-only route in a handful of subjects may be suitable, but if students are limited to this option in all subjects, they can be left facing 20 or so examinations in the summer, where all their work over two years is judged over a period of two or three weeks. This puts an intolerable amount of pressure on pupils. The modular approach of the IGCSE allows for pupils to complete aspects of the course prior to their final examination, removing some pressure. Coursework gives students the opportunity to walk into the exam knowing that they have already achieved a specific percentage in their subject, building their confidence and managing expectations. Equally, teachers have an accurate working grade as a result of their coursework, which we use to differentiate and adapt their teaching throughout the year. Predicted grades are grounded in more clear evidence, and data is more accurate and usable. In summary, alongside the more practical benefits of coursework, it is undoubtedly the case that schools have a duty of care to consider the wellbeing of their students. Arguably, an exam-only route for assessment creates a more pressurised environment, and it can feel like a one-size-fits-all structure that does not benefit all pupils for whom we care. We believe that an excellent education should be grounded in variety, choice, and outstanding opportunities, not limitations. A diverse range of curriculum options and routes allows schools to create an exceptional education, and the modular approach of the IGCSE is focused on just this.

STEFANIE JONES Head of English Kensington Park School

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

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TRAVEL

CITY SPOTLIGHT ZURICH

Culturally rich, exceptionally efficient and affording attractive views across to the Alps, Zurich is one of central Europe's hippest destinations. Absolutely spends a sunny weekend there.

Surfing in Devon 98 • Weekend Getaway: Zurich 101 • Provence 104 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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wave

CATCHERS Learning to surf as a family is a challenge, but a fun one. Absolutely heads to North Devon’s Saunton Sands Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

hen people get the surfing bug, it eclipses everything else. Friends of ours from London felt the pull of the sea so strongly that within a year of riding their first wave, they had bought a caravan in North Devon and were driving down at every available opportunity. Another year on and they had sold up, left London and moved permanently to be near the water. They even refurbished their new coastal home with surfing in mind, modifying the garage to include surfboard and wetsuit storage and installing an outdoor shower. That’s how addictive surfing can be. So while we were ready to be taken by it, we weren’t quite ready for the reality of it. Our destination is Saunton Sands, a beach known for its surf and particularly its suitability for beginners. None of us has ever surfed before and there are four of us – two adults and two children, aged 12 and 9. We arrive late on Friday night and our first lesson is scheduled for Saturday morning. Arriving in the dark means that while we’re

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TRAVEL • UK

What our friends hadn’t told us is that surfing, for all its compelling qualities, is exhausting

impressed with the spot, it’s not until the next day that we are blown away by the amazing view. The owner of Chalet Saunton is a bit like our London friends in that he has designed the building with surfing practicalities as a priority. Between the beach and the house is a surf shelter for boards and wetsuits, and a shower. Nobody wants to trail sand into their house, and nobody wants to be cold, especially not anyone who has opted for the luxurious surroundings of Chalet Saunton. The house is divided into six apartments and a penthouse, all of them spacious and with spectacular views of the beach. In fact, when the sun comes up, it’s possibly the best beach view we’ve ever seen, and Saunton Sands is certainly one of the UK’s most spectacular beaches in terms of its sheer size, soft sand and reliable surf. The chalet’s interiors are minimal, tastefully muted in shades of grey and neutral, with acres of space and no superfluous furniture

or decoration, yet very well equipped in terms of practicality, comfort and tech. In the kitchen, for instance, there’s an integrated wine cooler, a nespresso machine complete with electric milk frother and a welcome hamper of local produce (plus avocados). The living room has a vast smart TV, a Sonos speaker and lots of sofa space; there are impressive power showers and underfloor heating throughout. So all of this means that after our first surfing lesson – Walking on Waves runs classes on the chalet’s doorstep – we can recover in warmth and comfort. Because what our friends hadn’t told us is that surfing, for all its compelling qualities, is exhausting. At least it is for us beginners. Our group lesson lasts two hours, during which we go to battle with the waves and, on the whole, lose. Inevitably the children are better at it than we are, and standing up for more than a split second eludes me. Our instructors are vigilant and instill us with lots of enthusiasm and a good sense of what we are trying to do – and the addictive pull lies in the constant sense that the next wave will be the one. After the session we are all desperate to return, but immediately we head for the comfort of the chalet’s hot showers, fluffy towels and sofas. There is no better way to spend a post-surf evening in October than fish and chips in front of the television, with full sea views in the distance. When we return it will be summer, and we’ll drink in the views from the vast terrace.

HOW FAR IS TOO FAR FOR A WEEKEND?

orth Devon is definitely pushing it as a weekend destination for Londoners. Only the most dedicated surfers will brave it with any regularity. For the rest of us, the four or even five hour drive is something we dread, especially when you’re looking at Friday evening traffic and especially when you have children in the car. The only variable we have control over, and the thing that can make the drive bearable, is the actual car. We took a spanking new secondgeneration Volvo V60 for the ride and comfort levels were off the scale. Not only is the space and upholstery especially generous for passengers but driving this is a delight, and almost entirely effortless. Special programs verge on the fully automated – parking, for instance, is something that can be done for you simply by pressing P for Park Assist, which triggers a scan search for a space before a skilful parallel park, while a variety of driving modes allows you to pick your preferences. When the surf calls, the V60 definitely offers a sweeter ride.

C H A L E T SAU N TO N Book a stay at Chalet Saunton from £350 per night in a three-bedroom apartment (sleeps six) on a self-catering basis. This includes a welcome hamper of local produce, in addition to amenities by British organic skincare brand ila apothecary. chaletsaunton.com; 01271 890 514 walking-on-waves.com

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

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W E N

E U N

GROUNDS FOR CELEBRATION AC C O M M O DAT I O N

C E L E B R AT I O N S

WEDDINGS

C O R P O R AT E R E T R E AT S

Battel Hall is a truly unique medieval property on the edge of the Leeds Castle estate. For the first time in its long history, this luxurious, newly renovated manor house has opened its doors for bookings. Ideally suited to group gatherings with friends or family, intimate weddings and corporate retreats. Within easy reach of London, for further enquiries or to book please call 01622 767877 or email battelhall@leeds-castle.co.uk

battelhall.leeds-castle.com

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teeped in 173 illustrious years of tradition but with a polished finish and an unimpeachable reputation for world-class service, the fivestar Baur au Lac is about as luxurious as it gets. 199 rooms and suites exhibit individual style - from Art Deco to English Regency - while downstairs, Le Hall, the popular spot for afternoon tea, is a decadent showcase of royal hues, rich upholstery and plush carpets. Trees pillaring the room’s four corners and a domed ceiling lend the aesthetic of a giant and ornate aviary. The hotel’s history is as impressive as its interiors; opened in 1844 by Johannes Baur, the property hosted the world premier of Wagner’s Die Walküre, conducted by the composer himself. Six generations later and Baur au Lac remains in the family’s keeping, today attracting a cast of royalty and celebrities.

THE FOOD

aving won its second star in the 2019 Michelin guide, adding to the city’s weighty clutch of Michelin accolades, Baur au Lac’s Restaurant Pavillon is a gemstone in Zurich’s culinary crown. Chef de Cuisine Laurent Eperon creates dynamic, global interpretations of classic Swiss

and French haute cuisine. Menu highlights include whole roasted sole, beef fillet with a Béarnaise sauce and Swiss veal. Interiors-wise it’s an ode to purple with squashy velvet chairs, carpets and vivid blooms creating a regal air. The room is expansive due to high ceilings and a rotunda looking out across the spectacular (and sunny during our stay) grounds. Breakfast is served here and, like everything else, it does not disappoint. No where will you find sharper service or flakier viennoiserie.

THE AREA

aur au Lac commands an enviable spot, steps away from the Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s famous downtown boulevard and one of the world’s most expensive and exclusive shopping avenues. Once you’ve dropped a small

fortune treading the denselypacked 1.4km stretch that runs from the main railway station to the lake, take a relaxed stroll around the picturesque old town with over 2,000 years of history settled on the banks of the River Limmat. The Ironman triathlon creates a real buzz around Lake Zurich during our stay in the city but other highlights in Zurich’s calendar include the Sechseläuten Spring Festival in April, the summer Street Parade and the Zurich Film Festival in September.

DESTINATIONS

THE HOTEL

weekend

TRAVEL • EUROPE

BAUR AU LAC Zurich By HELEN BROWN

5-star luxury overlooking Lake Zurich and The Alps

BAUR AU LAC Rates start from CHF 520 per night bauraulac.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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17th century farmhouse turned boutique bolthole, Dormy House is the perfect rural luxury getaway, set in the stunning 400 acres of the Farncombe Estate. The well-appointed rooms (some of which are dog-friendly) have been individually designed in a modern British style by Todhunter Earle, while the mere mention of a toddler in tow meant that a stair-gate, travel cot and cute gift were on hand for our mini traveller. We stayed in the attic suite, with its exposed eaves and family-sized shower beside the rolltop bath – plenty of room for us all.

THE SPA

he Scandinavianinspired House Spa is an idyllic space to unwind. Greeted with the impressively sleek 16-metre infinity pool (open to children for limited periods in the morning and late afternoon), hotel guests can make use of all the thermal suites for free. Rural relaxation and pampering is available by the tractor-load, whether in the gentle lavender sauna, juniperlaced dry heat of the Finnish cabin or the heat of the salt steam room. We even chanced the body-shrivelling winter temperatures outside to enjoy the al fresco hydrotherapy hot tub. If working out is your thing, there are two gyms on site, or

you can opt to get your nails done at the Veuve Clicquot nail bar. I plumped for a blissful 45-minute massage.

THE FOOD

here are two restaurants on site and they’re popular, so booking is highly advised. We weren’t able to get a table in the Garden Room but other guests raved about the three-course showpiece menu. The seasonal dishes and cocktail menu in the Potting Shed were, however, top-notch, particularly the venison wellington and punchyou-in-the-senses Stinky Bishop cheese. Children are welcome but we opted to use excellent local babysitting service cotswoldangel.co.uk, who texted us regular updates throughout the evening. Next morning, a sumptuous breakfast buffet ensured an ideal start to the day.

THE AREA

illstone Park is a short walk or cycle from the properties. Ballihoo Restaurant & Clubhouse overlooks communal tennis courts and the fantastic playground so you can have a coffee while keeping an eye on tinies. The Activity Hub loans bikes and watersports equipment. We hired bikes with trailers – brilliant for whizzing around.

DESTINATIONS

THE HOTEL

weekend

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY

DORMY HOUSE Cotswold By LUCY WERNER

Lucy Werner discovers reﬁned rustic style amid the Cotswold countryside

DORMY HOUSE From £240 per room, per night inclusive of breakfast and VAT. Rates based on two sharing an Intimate guestroom. Call 01386 852711 or visit dormyhouse.co.uk

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

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A FINE ROMANCE Gretel Baron enjoys a French hotel with the personal touch: Maison dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ulysse

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TRAVEL • FRANCE

bout 90 minutes northwest of Aix-enProvence region lies the small, extremely pretty town of Uzès; think treelined market squares, local restaurants, old bookshops, late-opening cafes and a cathedral in the centre. And only ten minutes outside of Uzès lies the village of Baron, where French rural life remains in many ways just as it was 50 or 60 years ago. It’s the kind of place where a typical day starts with a stroll to the boulangerie for a baguette and croissants, continues with a couple of idle hours spent reading and sipping café au lait, and welcomes the twilight with a snooze by the pool before dinner. If it sounds picture-perfect, that’s because it is: not least because of the petite yet beautiful Maison D’Ulysse; a 17th century farm tastefully restored to create a nine-bedroom boutique hotel. Owned by French-Belgian couple Gauthier and Guy, who stumbled across the house in 2006 and spent three years renovating it, it provides an intoxicating blend of private-villa tranquility and luxury hotel amenities. The rooms are airy and contemporary, with modern design and vintage finds mixed harmoniously against a backdrop of stone walls, wood beams and olive-green shutters. Our room was its own little turret, overlooking the garden and courtyard – so cute that even when it rained, we were perfectly happy to stay inside, cosy as

Our room was its own little turret, overlooking the garden and courtyard anything, looking out at the picturesque landscape and browsing the hundreds of books in the library. The hotel itself, while small enough to feel like you’re alone in the countryside, is also large enough to allow for little luxuries like Bamford toiletries, an honesty bar, a relaxing hammam with the option for a massage and my favourite part of any holiday – delicious food. Which brings me to the lovely homecooked (yet restaurant-quality) cuisine provided by resident chef Jonathan Michel. Breakfast consisted of eggs, fresh bread, Gauthier’s homemade plum jam and crêpes, while lunch was a classic selection of charcuterie and cheese. Although I have to stress here that this was not the French food of old; as a pescatarian I normally struggle for food in France, but every single meal at Maison d’Ulysse was fresh, delicious, beautifully considered… in short, among the best I’ve ever had. During the day, there is much to do in the area – from wine-tasting and long, scenic drives to touring the local chateaux. But our favourite part had to be the tours curated

by Gauthier himself; a 30-minute stroll around the local church or a couple of hours cycling around neighbouring vineyards and villages. One such foray took us up a small hill through the woods to an abandoned, romantically derelict chateau – it felt straight out of Beauty and the Beast. Once at the top we were met with stunning views of the green and golden countryside before descending back down the winding path. In the afternoons, we spent most of our time soaking up the sun by the heated pool in the pretty garden, which is filled with wild flowers and lavender. It’s the details at Maison d’Ulysse which really transport you – the garden benches are reclaimed from Marseille train station, the walls are made out of natural sand and water (so they’re in keeping with the local architecture) and there are sustainable features throughout, from sun panels on the roof to rainwater collection systems. To top it off, Gauthier himself is charmingly sweet and dedicated to his guests. He’ll provide you with a ton of recommendations for restaurants or activities – and at 4pm, even remind you to have a glass of wine: “In France, we start in the afternoon”. Dinner was a three-course meal served in the candlelit courtyard, consisting of classics like filet de boeuf accompanied by interesting additions such as avocado gazpacho. Everything was prettily garnished with edible flowers and the meal concluded with fresh strawberries, rosé and champagne in the garden – with nothing left to do but to enjoy the stillness, the starfilled sky, the clean air and the calm. Pure bliss.

M A I S O N D ’ U LY S S E Rates start at 244€ per person per night, including breakfast lamaisondulysse.com

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TRAVEL • PROMOTION

W O R L D

CLASS

EXCEPTIONAL VILLAS The Thinking Traveller’s collection of villas in the heart of the Mediterranean features 5-star oases of fully-serviced luxury, beachfront summer houses, gems of contemporary architecture, sumptuous masserie, chic trulli, romantic retreats, and much more. No property enters the collection until Rossella and Huw have seen it for themselves, and only about 1% of the villas offered to the company make it onto their books.

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Discover the exclusive world of The Thinking Traveller

hen Huw and Rossella Beaugié founded The Thinking Traveller in 2002, they did so with two clear aims: to offer a luxury experience that can’t be sourced elsewhere, and to inspire their clients to say, “That was the best holiday we’ve ever had. We’ll be back.” Judging by the company’s success – it has been voted Favourite Villa Rental Company four times (including in 2016, 2017 and 2018) at the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Awards – Huw and Rossella’s innovative approach, based on four guiding principles, is fully achieving its aims.

The Thinking Traveller’s team visit and stay at the company’s properties several times a year, experiencing everything that you’ll experience while you’re on holiday. The company’s concierges, meanwhile, are true locals who know the destinations inside out. They have all the right connections and a magical ability to make things happen. You might not need them, but it’s always reassuring to know they’re on hand if you do.

PERSONAL SERVICE The Thinking Traveller’s experts will always go that extra mile to transform your dreams into reality. Excellent listeners, creative thinkers, and resourceful logisticians, they use their first-hand knowledge to give you all the options, suggest possibilities you might not have considered, and conjure up solutions that exceed your brief.

QUALITY THROUGH EXCLUSIVITY Exclusivity is a much misused word in the travel industry. For The Thinking Traveller, it’s a simple concept: the villas are not “shared” with numerous other rental agencies – they are all available exclusively through them. This not only gives clients a truly exclusive experience, but also allows the company to have a hands-on role in quality assurance (something that’s not possible when properties are rented through multiple channels). Exclusivity also allows clients to book online 24/7, whenever it’s most convenient.

T H E T H I N K I N G T R AV E L L E R For more information and to book, visit thethinkingtraveller.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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PROPERTY

CANONBURY PARK SOUTH N1

ÂŁ3,500,000

semi-detached Grade II listed house with four double bedrooms, a large modern conservatory and off-street parking, surrounded by mature landscaped gardens in a quiet, sought-after Canonbury street. The house provides ideal lateral living around the kitchen/ dining room, with more formal reception rooms above. The property boasts four double bedrooms, all with bathrooms.

YOUhome Notting Hill Gate 020 7908 9280 www.youhome.co.uk

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

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A meticulously designed apartment.

1 3

2 Holland Park Villas, Holland Park, W8 A stunning apartment on the south west aspect of this exclusive and highly sought after private gated development. • • • •

Tacita Rolls looks forward to hearing from you. tacita.rolls@knightfrank.com 020 3641 7305

Set on the second floor Private west facing terrace Approximately 2,270 sq ft (210.9 sq m) Available furnished/unfurnished

Guide price

£7,250

per week knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. There will also be a £48 charge to register your deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if applicable. (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www.knightfrank. co.uk/tenantfees. Knight Frank is a member of the ARLA Client Money Protection Scheme and our redress scheme for consumers is Property Redress Scheme.

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Homes to let in Fulham. Stevenage Road, SW6 A stunning family home finished, offering the perfect accommodation to living space balance. • • • •

Spacious open plan living Beautifully landscaped garden Balcony Available unfurnished

Chiara Thomas looks forward to helping you. chiara.thomas@knightfrank.com 020 8115 8568

Guide price £2,750 per week

New Kings Road, SW6 A unique four bedroom lateral 5,000 sq ft Penthouse apartment, with views over Eel Brook Common. • • • •

Contemporary open plan living area Lift Parking Terrace

Chiara Thomas looks forward to helping you. chiara.thomas@knightfrank.com 020 3463 2621

Guide price £6,500 per week

knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly. All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. There will also be a £48 charge to register your deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if applicable. (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www.knightfrank.co. uk/tenantfees. Knight Frank is a member of the ARLA Client Money Protection Scheme and our redress scheme for consumers is Property Redress Scheme.

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A beautifully designed apartment.

2 Hatherley Grove, Notting Hill W2 A one bedroom flat in a prime location. Hatherley Grove is exceptionally well located, it is close to local amenities and has transport links nearby. • • • •

Elizabeth Holder looks forward to helping you. elizabeth.holder@knightfrank.com 020 8033 9842

Open plan living High ceilings Approximately 555 sq ft (51.6 sq m) Available furnished or unfurnished

Guide price

£595

per week knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

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THE ONE BEDROOM COLLECTION NOW L AUNCHED BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY 020 3944 5712 | sales@chelseacreek.co.uk

Discover waterside living at Chelsea Creek with a selection of contemporary one bedroom apartments in the heart of the development. • Prime zone 2 location, just minutes from the King’s Road • Imperial Wharf Station on your doorstep • Residents’ facilities including a 24-hour concierge service, spa and fitness centre PR I C E S F RO M £ 8 4 0 , 0 0 0 Chelsea Creek Marketing Suite, 9 Park Street, London SW6 2FS Computer Generated Image is indicative only and photography is of Chelsea Creek one bedroom apartments. Price correct at time of going to print.

www.chelseacreek.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

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EATON PLACE BELGRAVIA SW1 AN EXQUISITE DUPLEX APARTMENT WITH STUNNING CLASSICAL FEATURES Hidden behind a white stucco fronted façade, Eaton Place presents a stunning three bedroom duplex apartment set over the first and second floors. The first floor is dedicated to entertaining, offering a double reception with many classical features and high ceilings, leading to a large balcony, a dining room and bespoke kitchen. The immaculate property boasts Marble fire features, high ceilings, Onyx Marble bathrooms and an abundance of natural light throughout. Eaton Place is situated in a one of the most sought after addresses in London. Accommodation: Entrance, double reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and dressing room, two further bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, guest cloakroom, utility room. Amenities: Two balconies.

LONDON

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Marcus O’Brien

£9,000,000

marcus@beauchamp.com

Share of freehold

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

Joint Sole Agents

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M YKO N O S

N E W YO R K

H E R Z L I YA

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EATON PLACE BELGRAVIA SW1 A BRIGHT DUPLEX APARTMENT LOCATED IN THE HEART OF PRIME BELGRAVIA Eaton Place presents a modern duplex apartment, located on the third and fourth floor of this imposing, white stucco fronted building. In excellent condition, the apartment provides well-proportioned living accommodation benefitting from a spacious double reception, high ceilings and study space on the third floor leading to three ensuite bedrooms on the fourth floor. Eaton Place is arguably one of the finest addresses in Belgravia. Accommodation:Double reception room, kitchen, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, two further bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, guest cloakroom, study area. Amenities: Balcony, lift.

£4,600,000

Marcus O’Brien

Share of freehold

marcus@beauchamp.com

Joint Sole Agents

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

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WILTON CRESCENT BELGRAVIA SW1 A SPACIOUS DUPLEX APARTMENT WITHIN AN IMPRESSIVE LATE REGENCY PERIOD HOUSE Wilton Crescent presents an impressive four bedroom, duplex apartment set across the second and third floors of this impressive late Regency period house. The apartment benefits from an open reception/dining room overlooking the private crescent gardens, leading to a modern, fully equipped kitchen. Located within the heart of Belgravia the apartment is ideally located on the corner of Motcomb Street and minutes from Sloane Street. Accommodation: Reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, three double bedrooms, bedroom four/study, two shower rooms, . Amenities: Access to the private gardens.

LONDON

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Marcus O’Brien

£5,600,000

marcus@beauchamp.com

Leasehold

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

Joint Sole Agents

C A NN E S

M YKO N O S

N E W YO R K

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HANS CRESCENT KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW1 AN IMMACULATELY PRESENTED LATERAL FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT Hans Crescent has been elegantly interior designed and furnished to a very high standard, creating classical yet contemporary features throughout. The apartment is located within an attractive corner building on the corner of Hans Crescent and Pavilion Road. Just moments from Harrods, Hans Crescent is one of Knightsbridge’s most sought after addresses selection of shops and restaurants both in Knightsbridge and Sloane Street. Accommodation: Reception/dining room, kitchen, study, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms with ensuite bathroom/shower room. Amenities: Lift, air conditioning, iPad controlled.

£6,250,000

Paul Finch

Leasehold

paul@beauchamp.com

Sole Agents

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

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FULHAM ROAD, LONDON Featherstone Leigh are delighted to bring to the market this newly built two bedroom flat with a balcony. The property comprises a spacious open plan kitchen living room with brand new high quality appliances, a spacious bathroom with bath and shower, a large double bedroom with En-suite and fitted storage along with a further double bedroom with fitted storage.

GUIDE PRICE

ÂŁ2,491 PCM

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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

PALMERSTON MANSIONS, QUEEN’S CLUB GARDENS A wonderful two bedroom flat in the much sought after Queens Club Gardens. The apartment is set on the third floor and boasts stunning views of the manicured grounds exclusively enjoyed by residents. The property comprises two very generous double bedrooms with ample storage space, a large kitchen with plenty of space for dining and a sizeable reception room with a balcony.

GUIDE PRICE

£850,000*

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FULHAM 020 7610 9755

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HENNIKER MEWS, SW3

£1,225 per week

A beautiful fourth floor mansion block flat closely located to all amenities and transport links of South Kensington and Knightsbridge. Well-proportioned and elegant this renovated apartment comprises of two double bedrooms, a spacious west facing reception room, marbled kitchen/dining room and views onto Alexander Square and beyond. 2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • FURTHER BEDROOM/STUDY • 2 BATHROOMS • KITCHEN/ DINING ROOM • TOP FLOOR RECEPTION • TERRACE • FURNISHED • PARKING

CHELSEA PARK GARDENS, SW3

£5,450 per week

This elegant three storey house, formerly the home of novelist George Orwell, is located in the favoured southernmost section of Portobello Road. Westbourne Grove, Holland Park and Kensington Gardens are all within easy walking distance, as is Notting Hill Gate underground. This newly decorated home is perfect for those wishing to entertain in a unique stylish home with a delightful roof terrace. 6 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • 6 BATHROOMS • KITCHEN • DOUBLE RECEPTION ROOM • MEDIA ROOM • UTILITY ROOM • GUEST W/C • TERRACE • COMMUNAL GARDENS • UNFURNISHED • OFF STREET PARKING

117 Sydney Street London SW3 6NR Lettings: +44 (0)20 7351 7822 or information@hlrlets.com hlrlets.com HLR.indd 1

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Did you know?

70% of all prime London developments are for sale with Knight Frank.

Kingwood at 55 Hans Place, Knightsbridge: a development by Finchatton

Register with us for the widest choice of exceptional new homes. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to help you. Contact Rupert des Forges, Head of Prime Central London Developments, on +44 20 3463 0234

knightfrank.co.uk Statistic based on developments that Knight Frank are directly mandated on in London zone 1 at an average list price in excess of ÂŁ2,000/sq ft.

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020 3284 1888 mayfair@humberts.com

48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair London W1J 5AX

Kensington, W14 William Harley Street Mews Guide price 1,995,000 Knightsbridge Marylebone W1G SW7 Asking Guide Price: Price:ÂŁ1,900,000 ÂŁ1,075,000leasehold freehold

David Adams Director 48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 5AX T: 020 3284 1888 E: david.adams@humberts.com

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An elegant bedroom lateral apartment with long corridors andapartments high ceilings on the and second floor A This smart unusually one4bedroom large lateral flat on apartment the ground wasfloor created in a by portered joiningblock. two Benefits from together, underground includes parking and 2 kitchens, off street 3 bedrooms parking and 2the sitting mews. rooms. 1 Bedroom, Located 1on Reception the 2ndonto floor Room with &the 1aBathroom lift a porter. over approx. In with a communal lift. within Gated and portered with balcony views both treeand lined street andneed 550 of modernisation. sqft. Unbeatable Knightsbridge 33 years location. remaining. ShareEPC: of Freehold. D EPC: C courtyard. Share ofLeasehold, freehold. EPC D.

Stay in touch with us

humberts.com

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020 3284 1888 mayfair@humberts.com

48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair London W1J 5AX

Chelsea Manor William Harley Street Mews Street, SW3 £800 per week W1G Knightsbridge Marylebone SW7

Fully renovated and lateral fully 2 bedroom in a block. secure porteredfrom building close to the A This smart unusually one bedroom large flat furnished on apartment the ground wasfloor created induplex a by portered joining two apartments Benefits together, underground and includes parking and 2 kitchens, offRoad, street 3 Chelsea. bedrooms parking within and 2the sitting mews. rooms. 1 marble Bedroom, Located 1on Reception the floor Roomwith &EPC 1aBathroom liftC.and a porter. over approx. In need Kings Fabulous Carrara kitchen and2nd bathroom. 550 of modernisation. sqft. Unbeatable Leasehold, Knightsbridge 33 years location. remaining. ShareEPC: of Freehold. D EPC: C

Asking Guide Price: Price:£1,900,000 £1,075,000leasehold freehold

David Adams Director 48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 5AX T: 020 3284 1888 E: david.adams@humberts.com

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Stay in touch with us

humberts.com

22/02/2019 09:54

Home sellers, you probably haven’t heard of us.

We’re the Prime Central London property gurus selling properties other agents haven’t been able to. Discover how at: youhome.co.uk/absolutely

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