Absolutely Notting Hill May 2012 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY NOT TING HILL

LITERARY LEANINGS

MAY 2012

HAVING A BALL

BEHIND THE SCENES AT QUEENS PARK BOOK FAIR

50 YEARS OF GLAMOROUS GOWNS AT THE V&A

WILLA’S WORLD ON THE SOFA WITH LEDBURY ROAD’S WILLA KESWICK

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Table talk with NW10’s Thomasina Miers

Flower girls Fabulous floral fashion

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

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Campden Hill Square 3,244 sq ft (301.37 sq m)

| Kensington | W8

Five further bedrooms

Price Upon Application, Freehold

Kensington Sales 020 7938 3666

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Abingdon Villas 2,127 sq ft (197.60 sq m)

| Kensington | W8

A beautifully presented five bedroom family house over four floors only with excellent entertaining space and a south facing garden. Entrance hall

Four further bedrooms

Price Upon Application, Freehold

Kensington Sales 020 7938 3666

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ABSOLUTELY CONTENTS MAY 2012

FEATURES 20 GOOD WILLA Talking shop with fabulous fashionista Willa Keswick

31 ON THE BALL A new exhibition of beautiful ballgowns at the V&A

37 WRITE STUFF Queens Park Book Festival; Words in the Park

39 BOOK TALK NW6 novelist Alba Arikha interviews

REGULARS 45 INSPIRED INTERIOR At home with designer Tamsin de Roemer

52 ABSOLUTELY’S A-Z Nine pages of local businesses

62 MEXICO MIERS

Thomasina Miers is back with a new book and a new menu

76 DETOX DIARY

Part two of Juliet Kinsman’s health odyssey

16 PARTIES 20 WHAT’S ON 24 FASHION 43 INTERIORS 62 FOOD & DRINK 70 HEALTH & BEAUTY 90 TRAVEL 93 PROPERTY

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Welcome So Kensal Rise isn’t Notting Hill, of course, but it is inhabited by a lot of ex-Notting Hill types and – like it or not – it forms part of something that has somehow come to count as ‘greater Notting Hill’. There’s a lot of stuff going on in this part of town, especially among its womenfolk. Kensal Rise now even has its very own version of the Women’s Institute, in a post-ironic way. There’s cake, yes, but also cocktails (it is at Paradise) at this new monthly gathering which, even though it’s only happened twice so far, has already attracted over 150 women, not just on Facebook but in real life. Speakers so far have included Scarlet and Violet’s Vic Brotherson and Juliet Kinsman of Mr and Mrs Smith and the popular Park Life blog. Absolutely is a fan, of course. Is there a women’s institute in Notting Hill proper? Please let us know. And as we go to press, news reaches us of another Kensal Rise event, also quite (though not exclusively) female - the Broken Down Doll Boutique returns to Chamerlayne Road with its mix of drinks and fashion from 16 to 20 May, so look out for it. On the subject of inspirational women, Absolutely’s very own Lisa Davis is running this month’s Race for Life in Hyde Park with our friends at Powervibe, in aid of Cancer Research. It’s on 27 May and there’s still time to sign up at powervibe.co.uk if you want to run too. In the meantime, enjoy this issue of Absolutely.

Pendle Harte Editor

ABSOLUTELY NOTTING HILL Nicole Farhi jumper, Inbar Spector skirt £1,100 and Nicole Farhi shoes

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EMAIL: PENDLE@ZEST-MEDIA.COM FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY NOTTING HILL’

ABSOLUTELY KENSINGTON Moschino jacket £1,520 Gallery 4 shorts £POA Lara Bohinc necklace £610 Kara by Kara Ross ring £120

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W1 AL

ABSOLUTELY

EDITOR Pendle Harte

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katie Randall INTERN Levi Breden EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Pearl Boyd, Hattie Edmonds, Juliet Kinsman EDITOR IN CHIEF Harriet Compston ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Lisa Davis SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Rochelle Streater ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Nicole Barlow GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR Alexandra Hunter CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER Anna Hutton-Potts HEAD OF DESIGN Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNERS Lisa Wade, Stewart Hyde DESIGNER Andrew Mavin

Exhibition open 18 May – 28 October 2012 Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E 7BB

FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid MARKETING MANAGER Jessica Batten MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com. You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 6 & 12 months, £15 and £25 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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

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WHAT’S ON

May

FROM TABLE TO WALL FROM 2 MAY FLOW GALLERY An exhibition of plates, following their transition from functional pieces to elaborate decorative ware. Over 20 artists have made plates specifically for the show, and the gallery walls will be covered in plates in a variety of materials ranging from ceramics, glass and metal to paper, wood and willow. 1-5 Needham Road W11

Absolutely the best of the month ahead

IMAGE: GUNTHER VON HAGENS, INSTITUTE FOR PLASTINATION

ANIMAL INSIDE OUT 6TH APRIL - 16TH SEPTEMBER NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Fancy finding out what lies beneath the skin of the world’s most spectacular creatures? The Natural History Museum’s, Animal Inside Out exhibition strips back skin and flesh, taking visitors on an anatomical safari throughout the animal kingdom. Waterhouse Gallery, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD; nhm.ac.uk

JUBILEE FAMILY FESTIVAL 2&3 JUNE HYDE PARK Inspired by the great British tradition of village fetes and street parties, this family festival will be themed around 60 years of Great British heritage with influences from across the Commonwealth. Five stages will provide entertainment ranging from Pearly Kings and Queens to the British Imperial Military Band, via the Disney Princesses (pictured) and Strictly Come Dancing. Adults £20, under-16s £12.50, seetickets.com

THE W9 JUBILEE SALE SATURDAY 26TH MAY, 10AM - 4PM ST SAVIOUR’S SCHOOL A selection of quirky designers offer items that are unique, quirky, fun and beautifully made, and not too expensive. Be tempted by a fabulous Paperwings dress for your little one from Pookie and Peach, a leather bound note book from Barbara Wiggins or some stunning beach wear from Sirma Kara, a feather trimmed shawl from Hayley Menzies, a unique vintage silk scarf cushion from Charlotte Clemence or a manicure from The Homebody. We love these mugs by Nadia Sparham. St Saviour’s School, Shirland Road W9

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DIARY

HEART OF THE CITY TO 6 MAY TABERNACLE These recent works by Sam Birch take the city of London as their subject and explore the artist’s love of maps, combining traditional drawing and painting techniques with photography, computer-generated imagery and satellite technology. Powis Square, W11

PAINTINGS BY SHARON YAMAMOTO 26 MAY - 10 JUNE ICE HOUSE, HOLLAND PARK Sharon Yamamoto has had over 30 successful solo exhibitions in Britain, across the United States and in Spain. She has participated in forty group shows, festivals and art fairs. She is the recipient of five major awards including membership of the Fine Art Trades Guild. On June 3rd she will host a diamond Jubilee party at the Ice House.

TAYO’S TRACKSUIT PARTY Feat Rob Da Bank, Artwork (classic disco set), Matt Jam Lamont (vintage TuffJam set), Wookie (old school garage set) & Hip Hop Karaoke SUNDAY 6 MAY, 8PM – 3AM PARADISE BY WAY OF KENSAL GREEN

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE PREVIEWS FROM 8 MAY KENSINGTON GARDENS Following the hit production of Peter Pan, threesixty returns to Kensington Gardens to create another enchanting theatrical experience. Open the door to The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, and enter a spectacular world with Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy as they journey through the magical land of Narnia. lionwitchtheshow.com

ELEVEN AT THE GALLERY FROM 24 MAY ANTHROPOLOGIE Anthropologie is delighted to announce a new show at in collaboration with Eleven Fine Art, featuring artists Daisy de Villeneuve, Natasha Law and Jennie Ottinger. Eleven at The Gallery will be divided into three two-week micro shows, each one personally curated by the artist concerned. The Gallery at 139 Kings Road SW3

Channelling the spirit of the original block party, Tayo’s Tracksuit Party is a chance to get up and get down to classic hip hop, garage, reggae, new and old disco, dancehall, 80s grooves, early house, proper electro and all that good stuff from the past, present and future. Since the first party in 2000, TTP has welcomed the likes of Grandmaster Flash, Roots Manuva, Fake Blood, Jack Beats, Basement Jaxx, Joe Goddard, Cuban Brothers, Spin Doctor, Ben Westbeech and a whole host more to do their thing. 19 Kilburn Lane, W10 020 8969 0098; theparadise.co.uk

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C U LT U R E SKETCHY CROWD Life drawing is always a worthy pursuit, though not generally known for its high-octane entertainment value. But now there’s Dr Sketchy, where instead of a quiet class of serious sketchers clustered around a shivering nude, you’ll find beautiful burlesque performers, bizarre circus acts and – they claim – ‘rippling hunks of man-flesh’, all for your drawing pleasure. Oh, and cocktails too, of course, seeing as how it’s at Paradise. The next session is 21 May, 7.30 to 10.30 and tickets are £8.50 in advance or £10 on the door. Sharpen your pencils.

On the

Agenda GERMAN DESIGN Kensington’s Goethe Institut is 50 years old this year and a host of celebratory German-themed events are happening all over town. This month sees the opening of the Barbican’s epic Bauhaus exhibition, focusing on the world’s most famous art school. Absolutely can’t wait. Bauhaus: Art as Life opens on 3 May. Barbican.org.uk

ON YER BIKE EDIBLE CINEMA After Secret Cinema and scratch and sniff cinema, now Edible Cinema kicks off at the Electric this month with an unusual screening of Pan’s Labyrinth. Guests are given a series of numbered packages containing a variety of foods, props and other sensory aids to be opened during the film. So you’ll open a packet of smoked pine popcorn while Ofelia and Carmen travel through the Spanish woodland on screen, and inhale a sweet pine smell from a scented handkerchief provided to set the scene of the film and mimic the action on screen… you get the idea. We can’t wait. 8.30pm on 13 May; 020 7908 9696. Tickets start at £22.50

MAGIC BUS

Bikeminded, Kensington and Chelsea’s pledge to get people cycling via a variety of unusual events and activities, is back with a new programme of cycle tours. There’s a film one where a convoy of cyclists will tour local film locations, a magical mystery music tour visiting musicians’ haunts from the 1960s to the present day and, later in the summer, an Alice in Wonderland tour with Exquisite Folly Theatre, where cyclists will be drawn into an interactive performance as they follow Alice on their bikes. Tours take place on Saturdays throughout May, June and July. bikeminded.org

Roll up for the Cath Kidston travelling show, which is visiting Clarendon Cross for the Diamond Jubilee Street party over the first weekend of June. The Kidston van will be decked out in fabulous Jubilee style and selling a variety of darling themed products plus face painting and temporary tattoos for tinies.

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GOSSIP MISTERMAN’S MUNCHIES No fancy eateries for Queens Park-based movie star Cillian Murphy, currently starring in Enda Walsh’s Misterman at the Lyttleton. You won’t find him lunching at the Wolseley, or dining at his Soho club. No – it’s Vijay on Willesden Lane for him, with its South Indian vegetarian menu. What good taste the man has. Misterman is at the National Theatre until 28 May (nationaltheatre.org.uk)

Absolutely

Confidential LISTED LOTT Local novelist Tim Lott was Robert Elms’ Listed Londoner on BBC Radio London recently – and he used his airtime to rave about Notting Hill. He is a fan of All Saints Road’s Uli and loves the Books for Cooks lunches – and has found his all-time perfect neighbourhood community in Kensal Green. His new novel Under the Same Stars is published by Simon and Schuster, £16.99.

HIRST’S LEGACY

LEAD PHOTO BY CATHERINE ASHMORE

TODAY W11, TOMORROW SOUTH BEACH Beach Blanket Babylon – 20 years old and still pulling in the crowds – is expanding again. First the Ledbury Road stalwart opened an east London sister and now it’s moving across the pond. Hackney-born entrepreneur Robert Newark is the man behind the venue beloved of everyone from Prince Harry to Simon Cowell, and he has been in the game ever since launching Sloane’s in Knightsbridge in the 1980s. Now he’s planning a range of boutique hotels as well as outposts of BBB in Miami, New York and Los Angeles.

In the light of Damien Hirst’s show at Tate Modern, his long-forgotten Pharmacy restaurant is being remembered. One minute the Notting Hill Gate eaterie was filled with the great and the good of the New Labour art world, plus the Freuds and Tara PalmerTomksinson, and the next it was empty. But it’s good to see that the relics are still available on ebay, where a box of Pharmacy matches just went for £38.

MOTORWAY MUSINGS Damon Albarn’s new – and final - record with Blur is called Under the Westway, celebrating the view from his studio window. Literally, he looks out onto the underbelly of the motorway. Much like the view from Absolutely’s window, in fact.

CELEB WATCH: Callum Best on Portobello Road, Mario Testino at the Electric, Edith Bowman and small son at the Josh Wood Atelier (his hair being cut, not hers), Ben Fogle on Westbourne Grove with a super cute baby, Jeremy Clarkson parking his Audi outside Daylesford, Lulu Guinness walking a dog in Lambton Place, Keith Flint in the Grain Store... 15

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Ladies of the Rise

The last Thursday of every month is now devoted to women: Ladies of the Rise is a new regular night at Paradise. The launch night featured a Q&A with Vic Brotherson, florist extraordinaire of Scarlet & Violet.

ABSOLUTELY

Social

Reporting from all the best parties in our area Pistol Panties

DEBORAH AND NAMALEE

Pistol Panties of Westbourne Park Road launched its pop-up store at Selfridges with a glamorous bash where guests were treated to spray tans while eating popcakes from Pop Bakery, drinking prosecco and being filmed by Vogue.

MARY CHARTERIS

BEN DUNCAN

NAMALEE

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west london’s ultimate club for health, sports & relaxation

for you, for families for 2012

www.theparkclub.co.uk For further information and to arrange a club tour

call 020 8740 4599

The Park Club East Acton Lane West London W3 7HB Untitled-2 1

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NOT JUST PEACHY Supperclub is now home to London’s first dedicated bellini bar, offering everything from the classic peach bellini to some truly unusual bellinis such as chocolate pear bellini, sparkling cosmo bellini, vodka and bubblegum prosecco bellini and a lime and elderflower bellini. Ooooh.

LITTLE LUGGAGE

10 things we

Absolutely

W11-based baby bag experts Pink Lining – the people behind the original Yummy Mummy bag – also do a lovely line in children’s bags that are infinitely more stylish than anything the tots would choose themselves. We love this robot wheelie case and would (almost) pack it ourselves. £50, pinklining.co.uk

LOVE

BRAZILIAN BEATS Transport yourself to the beaches of Rio in the 1950s with W10 duo Lilly and Olivia’s genius museradio.fm. The newest playlist on the online music library is Samba e Amor, full of bossa nova classics and contemporary Brazilian sounds. Pure escapism.

GASTRO MUGS Bubble and squeak. Faggots and mushy peas. Welsh rarebit, haggis, Victoria sponge. Love it or hate it, British food is having a moment, as celebrated on these adorable mugs. They’re designed exclusively for Pedlars by Sara Mererid Williams. £10.95, pedlars.co.uk

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SOPHIE DAHL © MARY MCCARTNEY

LO C A L L I F E

CROWN JEWELS

In predictably quirky style, Tatty Devine has gone to town for the imminent Jubilee celebrations. There’s an entire crown jewelthemed collection as well as this delightful bunting necklace. Street parties here we come. £29, tattydevine.com

JAMIE HEWLETT FOR ABSOLUT VODKA Dandyism, Savile Row-styling and - most timely - Dickensian London… Jamie Hewlett references the lot in his limitededition Absolut Vodka bottle design, now on sale at Harvey Nichols. He of Gorillaz fame is the latest to join the roll call of artists – which has included Damien Hirst and Louise Bourgeois – to collaborate on the drink’s global Cities campaign. Absolut Limited Edition Vodka, bottle drawn by Jamie Hewlett £20.99, at Harvey Nichols, harveynichols.com

DAHLING DEBATE We can’t wait to hear the gorgeous Sophie Dahl in conversation with Mary McCartney at Holland Park’s new literary festival, Words in the Park, this month. They will be discussing food in the wake of McCartney’s new book Food on Friday 18 May, st 12.45pm. Tickets £12 at operahollandpark.com.

EYE KNOW

Sophie Merchant, she of impeccable taste, is a fan of Will Broome, the artist known for his work with Marc Jacobs. His stylish owl prints are currently on show (and for sale) at her Kensington Park Road shop, Merchant Archive, which Absolutely loves anyway. And with owls on the wall it’s even more fabulous.

TOTES AMAZE Smythson’s Jackie tote comes in a range of new colours, including turquoise, emerald and berry pink. It’s brilliantly roomy and perfectly formed, £595.

GATHERING GODDESS Just opened is Gathering Goddess, the first permanent home for Wilma Mae’s online vintage fashion business, founded in 2002. A recent series of pop-up shops proved popular, with clothes flying off the shelves – and now American-born Wilma is permanently residing at 219 Westbourne Park Road, where she will also host talks and workshops on vintage fashion.

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Willa’s World Pendle Harte meets Willa Keswick, owner of Ledbury Road’s Village Bicycle

f the kitsch, colourful quirkiness of the Village Bicycle boutique reminds you of a toyshop, there’s a simple explanation. “Do you remember Frog Hollow? In Kensington?” squeals Willa Keswick. “They had furry stickers! And dressing up kits and wings! We used to hang out there for hours after school.” Ever since, Keswick, daughter of billionaire businessman Simon Keswick, has dreamed of being a shopkeeper. The 28 year-old may be known mostly as a party girl, but she’s actually a switched-on businesswoman in her own right. She was just 15 when her father registered the name Village Bicycle for her (“literally, as a joke!”) – and last year she opened the shop, followed last month by its website. “I call my style Baz Lurhman-esque, after that scene [in Romeo and Juliet] – you know, where he’s walking up past all

the crosses after she’s taken the potion,” she says, gesturing at a wall of Mexican crucifixes in her Ledbury Road shop. Willa works from a stripy window seat in the shop, covered in cushions and a laptop. The Village Bicycle (the name is a joke, of course, though Parisians don’t get it at all) is a scrapbook of a shop, selling everything from neon jeans to clutch bags disguised as hardback books via lollies, artworks and trainers. It’s inspired by her “favourite shop in the world,” Paris’s Colette – “I love going into shops where you’re like, wow, what shall I look at first, and that’s what I wanted to create here,” she gushes. Though it’s not all gushing. Keswick took a course at the (“amazing”) Portobello Business School, not generally the first port of call for your average billionaire’s daughter, where she learnt a lot of hard facts about retail. “We spent a year prepping before

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P RO F I L E

“I LOVE GOING INTO SHOPS WHERE YOU’RE LIKE, WOW, WHAT SHALL I LOOK AT FIRST, AND THAT’S WHAT I WANTED TO CREATE HERE” we opened. We’d be sitting outside these shops, counting how many people went in, pretending to be fashion students and finding out the average basket price. Things like that,” she says, breezily. Not that she’s always been a number cruncher. Keswick chalked up a lot of column inches for briefly running a West End club, simply named Willa’s, which seemed like a predictable thing to do, given her society girl background. But although it gained her a reputation as a well-connected girl about town, it didn’t turn out to be her thing at all. Why not? “It was exhausting. Going home at 3am, smiling all the time, then getting up early to sort out all the contracts etc. I’m actually a homely girl, I love spending time with my nieces and nephews and weekends in the country with my parents. I couldn’t do any of that.” Plus, the club’s aims proved

impossible to achieve. “I wanted to get live music into the west end without the extortionate prices – but you just can’t.

We tried doing cheap beer before 11, thinking that all the bankers and big spenders could come after that – but

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P RO F I L E

what happened was that all the fun people would leave, because in the real world people don’t spend six quid on a beer.” But is it the real world when people spend £2,500 on clothes in Ledbury Road? That was their original price point, but Village Bicycle’s prices have come down, she says. “It didn’t suit the clients’ age range. Though we do get the occasional amazing 64 year-old who will come in and buy everything,” she says. What’s her best seller? “Definitely the Chip jeans. Also the Chloe Sevigny for Opening Cermony collection – we’re the only people apart from Selfridges who have it. That’s flown. We don’t really follow fashion – so we’re not doing pastels now for instance. It’s all about what’s fun and cool really – our customer is a bit playful,” she says. Glancing around the shop, fun and cool makes sense. There’s an array of bright colours, loud prints, stripes and quirky paraphernalia, along with a designated ‘boyfriend area’ where bored blokes can

The Village Bicycle is known to throw a mighty party and Keswick can round up a good crowd. Her celebrity pals include Tyrone Wood, Pearl and Daisy Lowe, Poppy and Cara Delevingne, Henry Holland, Eliza Doolittle, Mary Charteris. Though it’s not all that easy getting her people over to west London. “All the creative media types are in east London, but when you get them down here they’re impressed. I love west London and I’ve lived here all my life, but people do think of it as older.” The shop has just launched its website, an online store selling sale stock with an e-zine too – and it’s involved a lot of extra work. “Everybody loves a bargain,” says Keswick, and it’s true that there are many to be had. The Village Bicycle is a grown-up version of a little girl’s dream and a fun, sparky one at that.

WE DO GET THE OCCASIONAL AMAZING 64 YEAR-OLD WHO WILL COME IN AND BUY EVERYTHING tinker with an Xbox or whatever. On the walls are pieces from local gallery London West Bank, or from Paddy Barstow in Chelsea, because Keswick is good at collaborating, which she calls ‘cross-pollination’. “Sometimes people come in wanting us to stock their stuff and we love giving people a break.”

iamavillagebicycle.com 79-81 Ledbury Road W11 020 7313 9031

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FA S H I O N

The great outdoors Take inspiration from Mother Nature this season with our pick of the best flora and fauna pieces

04 02

ASHISH SPRING SUMMER 2012

1. Preen Scuba jersey printed top £299, my-wardrobe.com 2. Whistles Meadow pleated skirt £110, whistles.co.uk 3. Charlotte Taylor small bonsai scarf £135, coggles.com 4. Tucker duck print blouse £235, shopthewestvillage.com 5. Carven Mountainscape print silk top £195, my-wardrobe.com 6. Carven Mountainscape print silk shorts £215, my-wardrobe.com 7. Mother Denim Looker Skinny - A Day in Paradise £275, donnaida.com 23

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AMY: Fyodor Golan dress £3,540 Jerome C Rousseau shoes £500 Kara Ross ring £100

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Buds THE

DARLING

OF MAY

Floral shapes and petal prints PHOTOGRAPHY: CLARA MAIDMENT STYLIST: SHARNA NEWTON

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MIA Erdem Dress £302 Kara by Kara Ross Bracelet £115 Flower Headpiece from a selection at Loulou Loves You, starting at £25

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MIA Inbar Spector top £1,040 Oscar De La Renta necklace £255 Headpiece as before AMY Erdem scarf (worn as top) £365 Gillian Horsup @ Grays Antique brooch £85 Kara Ross ring £120 Headpiece as before

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AMY Loulou Loves You headpiece Beyond Retro top £45 Hermione De Paula trousers £350 Sho necklace £210 Katie Rowland ring £POA

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MIA D&G Blouse, £370 Prabal Gurung Shorts, £735

STOCKISTS Ashtiani www.wolfandbadger.com Gallery 4 www.wolfandbadger.com D&G www.my-wardrobe.com Prabal Gurung www.net-a-porter.com Dannijo Kara Ross Chloe www.net-a-porter.com Beyond Retro 020 7729 9001 Paul Smith 0800 0234006 Katie Rowland 020 7713 6477 Gillian Horsup at Grays Antiques 020 7499 8121 Marc Jacobs www.theoutnet.com SHO 020 7436 6443 Moschino www.net-a-porter.com Lara Bohinc 020 7730 8194 Gucci www.net-a-porter.com Alejandro Ingelmo Equipment www.my-wardrobe.com Elizabeth and James www.net-a-porter.com Sophie Gittins 01787 376051 Nicole Farhi 0207 287 5658 Inbar Spector 020 7935 6641 Loulou Loves You www.louloulovesyou.com Hermione De Paula www.my-wardrobe.com Erdem www.theoutnet.com, www.net-a-porter.com Fyodor Golan Jerome C Rousseau Oscar De La Renta www.theoutnet.com

CREDITS Photographer: Clara Maidment Stylist: Sharna Newton Photographer’s Assistant: Maria Monfort Hair: Nichole Kahlani Make-Up: Danielle Kahlani Models: Mia Harangoza @ Storm Model Management Amy Manson @ Leni’s Model Management Make-Up credits: Hair Products by Bumble & bumble Make-Up products by Nars

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C U LT U R E

GOWN TOWN 60 of the best ballgowns from the V&Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s archive go on display this month. Absolutely has a rifle through the rails

ERDEM, A.W 2008 (PHOTO: DAVID HUGHES)

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C U LT U R E

ho hasn’t fantasised about browsing the V&A’s hidden archive of clothes? Since only a fraction of the vast collection is on show in the gallery, any new exhibition is full of excitement for anyone interested in costumes past and present. This month, curators have pulled out 60 of the most stylish and significant ballgowns, dating from 1950 to the present day. Worn at private parties, royal state occasions, debutante balls, opening nights and red carpet events, the ballgown is the ultimate fantasy frock, dreamier than a cocktail dress and more adventurous than a wedding gown. Designers represented in this show include Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano and Alexander McQueen as well as Hardy Amies, Ossie Clark, Bill Gibb, Belleville Sassoon, Murray Arbeid, Bruce Oldfield,

Julien MacDonald, Zandra Rhodes, Catherine Walker, Jonathan Saunders and Hussein Chalayan will be on show, as well as dresses fresh from the catwalk shows of Alexander McQueen, Giles, Erdem, Roksanda Illincic, Mark Fast and Jenny Packham. Innovative designer Gareth Pugh has created a stunning metallic leather dress especially for the exhibition. Alongside a focus on the designer, the show considers the wearer too, with a section dedicated to royal ballgowns (there’s a Norman Hartnell gown designed for Elizabeth the Queen Mother and Princess Diana’s ‘Elvis Dress’ designed by Catherine Walker) plus a display of gowns worn by actresses and celebrities including Sandra Bullock, Daphne Guinness, Elizabeth Hurley and Bianca Jagger. Anyone who loves a posh frock mustn’t miss it. Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 is at the Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road SW7 from 19 May. vam.ac.uk

L-R: ROKSANDA ILINCIC SILK DRESS, ROKSANDA ILINCIC, S/S 2009, CHRISTOPHER MOORE, CATWALKING.COM; STATE EVENING ENSEMBLE ‘ELVIS DRESS’, CATHERINE WALKER, 1989, VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM, LONDON; ATSUKO KUDO, WORN BY GEORGIA FROST WITH DRESSES BY HARDY AMIES AND WORTH OF LONDON, 2011, CARLOS JIMENEZ, V&A IMAGES; ALEXANDER MCQUEEN, S/S 2011, CHRISTOPHER MOORE, CATWALKING.COM

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C U LT U R E

Fit for purpose

he Special Yoga Centre’s annual art auction is back. Now six years old, the event will see generously donated works by Damien Hirst, Marc Quinn, Tracey Emin, Peter Blake and others, plus signed fashion designs from Stella McCartney up for grabs. The successful event raises money for the NW10-based charity that offers yoga therapy for children with special needs. All proceeds from the auction will go towards the renovation of the charity’s new premises

in West Hampstead, wherer it will move later this year. The move will establish the Special Yoga Centre, founded by Jo Manuel as a charity in 2004, as the largest yoga therapy centre of its kind in the UK, providing invaluable support for children with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and epilepsy. It’s going to be a lively night, hosted by Sotheby’s excellent auctioneer Ed Rising, with the help of Arlene Philips and myself. In the audience last year were Special Yoga Centre's loyal patron Samantha

Cameron and her sister Emily Sheffield, along with Kirstie Allsopp, Fay Ripley and others, so there are high hopes for this year’s turnout. Bring your wallets.

RAISING THE ROOF THE ART AUCTION FOR CONTEMPORARY ART LOVERS Twentieth Century Theatre, Westbourne Grove W11, 15 May 2012, 6-10pm To book tickets visit specialyoga.org.uk

FROM LEFT: MONKEYS BY PETER BLAKE ; SKETCH SIGNED BY STELLA MCCARTNEY; CATHERINE’S GARDEN BY DAVID BAILEY

Gaby Roslin introduces the Special Yoga Centre’s sixth annual art auction

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27/04/2012 16:47 17/04/2012 15:02

Fashionable feet head for Portobello Road Like a river of delights Portobello Road runs from Notting Hill to Golborne Road via the Westway and Portobello Green. Famous for antiques, vintage and fashion markets, amazing food, unique shops and the North African delights of Golborne Road.

Sasti is where you’ll find Rosie Life’s great R.Life kids label. From stylish babywear to fun pieces for boys and girls up to 10. Plus fantastic original gifts for new mums and children. www.sasti.co.uk

Bag a bargain, uncover a hidden treasure, or just enjoy the atmosphere of London’s most bohemian street.

Find us under the Westway at: Portobello Green Arcade 281 Portobello Road London W10 5TZ Sasti, Unit 6 Tel. 020 8960 1125 Email: sales@sasti.co.uk www.portobellodesigners.com FASHION PRODUCTS.indd 12

Portobello Green’s 20 boutiques include: A Creative Unit Adam of London Isis Haizhen Wang Studio In Bloom Philmore Clague Preen Lunetier Sarah Bunting Sasti

Steve Bell The Chinese Tea Company Trapstar Valli Colpani Verde What Katie Did Zarvis Plus: Le Petit Café Mo’s Café

29/04/2012 14:08

READING MATTERS It’s all about books this month in our manor, as literary types – from Alexandra Shulman to A.S Byatt – come out in force to celebrate the second Queens Park Book Festival and Holland Park’s Ways With Words. Absolutely dons its reading specs and finds out more

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Page turners The second Queen’s Park Book Festival promises to be even more exciting than the inaugural event last year, says Simon O’Hagan

PICTURED: POLLY WIILLIAMS AND JOHN LANCHESTER

he Festival, organised by Queen’s Park Area Residents’ Association, has doubled in size since 2011, with a total of 28 events taking place in marquees in the park over the two days – Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 May. As well as the two main tents, there will be a dedicated Children’s Tent and a host of other book-related activities on offer. The emphasis, once again, is on local talent, of which there is an abundance. Among the authors taking part for whom Queen’s Park or neighbouring areas are home are Kate Summerscale, Maggie Gee, Melissa Benn, Alexandra Shulman, Natalie Haynes, Alex Preston, Polly Williams, Henrietta Green, Alex Bellos, the poet Daljit Nagra, and the musician Edwyn Collins. Other writers you can catch include John Lanchester, Justin Cartwright, Philip Hensher, Linda Grant, Marina Lewycka, Owen Jones, the acclaimed teenage fiction

author Robert Muchamore, and the actress Dame Harriet Walter. The event will also be showcasing newer and debutant writers, plus the work of local writers’ groups. And there will be a special event on how to get published that features the leading publisher Jamie Byng and the literary agent Derek Johns. Local estate agents Queens Park Partnership are the very generous main sponsors, and many other local businesses are supporting the venture. It remains a community event not a commercial one, a companion to the hugely popular Queen’s Park Day that takes place every September. The Book Festival is entirely organised by a small team of volunteers on behalf of the residents’ association, supported by the local independent bookshop, Queen’s Park Books. The bookshop will sell festival authors’ books on the day and authors will be on hand to sign them. Tickets can only be bought in person from the bookshop at 87 Salusbury Road, NW6. A weekend ticket costs £15 in advance, or it’s £10 for each day. An incredible bargain for such a superb line-up. Tickets are not being sold for individual events. Organisers are stressing that if there is a particular event you want to see, make sure you are there in good time.

Full details are on the residents’ association website at www.qpark. org.uk/bookfestival. Simon O’Hagan is a co-organiser of the Queen’s Park Book Festival.

Alexandra Shulman, editor of Vogue and Queens Park resident, will be talking about her new novel Can we Still be Friends at the festival. Absolutely snatches five minutes with her How long have you lived in NW6? I have lived in Queen’s Park for 17 years. I moved to the area just before my son was born. Where do you like to eat, drink and shop locally? We eat at Penks and The Chamberlayne and I shop at stores on Chamberlayne Road and L’Angelo in Kensal Rise. I also use Scarlet & Violet for flowers. The novel traces the futures of three university friends. Was the idea in your mind for a long time? I hadn’t thought about the idea for Can We Still Be Friends until I started working on it. It began as a story about three friends as I am interested in the bonds of friendship but as I wrote, it also became about being in your 20s in the workplace at that period of time. Were you very disciplined while writing it? I had to be, or I would never have got it done. I didn’t give myself the option of not writing – even if it was all rewritten the next day. What will you be doing for the Queens Park book festival? I am in conversation with another journalist, Lisa Markwell. I also want to listen to some other speakers.

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C U LT U R E

Story time

Novelist and singer Alba Arikha will be appearing at this month’s Queens Park Book Festival. Pendle Harte meets her to talk about writing her memoir and having Samuel Beckett as a godfather

here’s a lot of alliteration in Alba Arikha’s life. Everything begins with the letter A, though it’s something she claims never to have thought about. Her father, the artist Avigdor Arikha; her mother, poet Anne Atik, her children Ascanio and Arianna (though their surname begins with B). It means nothing to her, apart from “always being first for everything” as a schoolgirl – one of the small but significant details that make up her memoir, Major/Minor. Arikha now lives in Queens Park with her composer husband and her two children (ages 16 and 10). She lived in New York and Italy after growing up in Paris and spending childhood summers in Israel. On first impressions she is a smiling, slightly shy woman, tall and elegant, with an unplaceable transatlantic accent. Her third book Major/Minor is a memoir of her childhood and adolescence, told in an emotive, fragmented way, a collection of isolated memories telling a story that spans generations and takes in the concentration camps, stolen identities, communist Romania and teenage insecurities as well as art, music, literature and Samuel Beckett. Arikha has a concise, deadpan turn of phrase that captures the intensity of her youth, and her book includes lots of childish observations that are simple, seemingly unconnected but piercingly perceptive. Does she clearly remember the feeling of being a child? Did that come with writing or had she held onto it? “I think I had that feeling for many years, even when I wasn’t a child,” she says,

slightly awkwardly. Her paragraphs are short and captivating. “We seldom travel and our adventures are purely cerebral,” is one, for instance. Mostly, the story is about Arikha’s father and their complicated relationship, caused in part by his troubled history. “I am aware of the disparity between my father’s memory and my reality,” she says in the book. Did he ever read it? “He never read it, though my agent tried to get it published before he died. I wasn’t sure whether he’d like it and no, I didn’t really want him to read it. It was sort of a cathartic experience to write it.” Arikha’s father is a difficult man and Arikha’s adolescence is characterised by rebelling against his very fixed views on art, music and behaviour. “He came from a very different world, an old Eastern European world and a very different life – you know, with the camps and all that, and had a very mixed nationality, he was very passionate and even though I rebelled against classical music and all that, it trickled down really.” A crucial point, made at least twice in the book, both times by Arika’s mother, is that her father never had an adolescence and his childhood was taken away from him, in October 1941. “Taken away by men in pale grey uniform.” Arikha explains: “I wanted to write about his adolescence in the war, and my adolescence, and the clash between us, and about memory and the interpretation of memory.” Arikha’s godfather is Samuel Beckett, a man who, in the book, comes round to dinner a lot and whom everyone reveres.

Teenage Arikha is irritated at everyone going on about him being special: “the overbearing habit of highlighting a uniqueness I have recognised on my own.” These days, Arikha is increasingly often invited to lecture about Beckett. “I love his work but I’m not an expert at all, as I hope is clear in the book. When I was a child he was just a lovely man who came over and recited poetry.” It wasn’t until she was 20 that she began to read his work and love it. “You could tell he was special, there was definitely an aura about him, something very quiet and introspective, he was tall and you had to look up to him and the way people were around him, you could tell. When he came my father used to sit down with him and they’d listen to music and everybody had to be very quiet and I used to find that highly irritating,” she says. The book is a personal history, intertwined with political history, and focuses on Arikha’s increasing awareness of the relationship between the two. She says: “I didn’t put the story together as a child but I knew it was there and sometimes it got in the way of things. I wrote the book in the present tense, so that way it was sitting right there.” Her next book will be completely different, a psychological thriller about a pianist. “Not about me at all,” she says. We look forward to it. Alba Arikha will be in conversation with Rosa Rankin-Gee at 6pm on 19 May at the Queens Park Book Festival. Major/ Minor is published by Quartet Books, £15. Qpark.org.uk/bookfestival 39

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eggersman single page v2_Layout 1 26/04/2012 15:02 Page 1

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C U LT U R E There’s literature in Holland Park too this month, thanks to Ways with Words

Words in the TOP: TONY BENN; RIGHT: JUNG CHANG (MAKOTO KUWATA); KEREMY PAXMAN

Park

ome of the UK’s finest living novelists are set to appear in Holland Park as part of new festival Words in the Park, organised by established festival people Ways with Words. And they will be accompanied by broadcasters, historians, philosophers, fashion and design icons, foodies, actors and politicians in a packed programme. Crime veteran PD James (Baroness James of Holland Park) will be in conversation with friend and fellow writer Penelope Lively, while other speakers include actress Maureen Lipman, John McCarthy, Sandi Toksvig, A.S. Byatt, Jonathan Derbyshire, Culture Editor of the New Statesman, Sophie Dahl and Mary McCartney, AA Gill, Jimmy Carr, Alain de Botton and Gavin Pretor-Pinney. Some of West London’s most famous faces will be speaking too, including Tony Benn in conversation with young author and agitator Owen Jones, and writer Jung Chang in conversation with critic Maya Jaggi. Jeremy Paxman will investigate the effect of the British empire on our lives and Andrew Marr will discuss the astonishing reign of Elizabeth II as Jubilee fever mounts. 18-20 May; wayswithwords.co.uk Booking is via the Opera Holland Park website and telephone box office (0300 999 1000)

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INTERIORS

AN ENCHANTED WOOD 02

Homeware takes inspiration from the forest this month

1. Shadow Squat pendent light £165, frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk 2. Forest canopy bed £3,698, anthropologie.eu 3. La Volière two-tier pendant light £575, conranshop.co.uk 4. Mellor Ware animal tea party teacup and saucer £24.95, liberty.co.uk 5. Omersa mini leather mouse £52, liberty.co.uk 6. Velvet love tub £545, oliverbonas.com 7. Fielding floral wire wall decoration £35, habitat.co.uk 8. Georgina console with mirror £495, alexanderandpearl.co.uk 9. LSA Ania wine glass £7.50, oliverbonas.com 43

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The Muse

UNPARALLELED Go north towards the Fly-over on Portobello Road and at No. 269, you will find The Muse gallery and studio. This creative sanctuary is nestled amongst the shops opposite ‘Tavistock Piazza’ and offers a moment of serenity away from the chaos of the weekend market. The Muse at 269, was established in 2003 as a platform for established and emerging artists. At the core of the operation is a residency program with artists working on the premises. The residents are always ready to walk and talk you around with a fresh cup of coffee, if you are interested? If not, you can sit and use free wireless in a quiet colourful space, plus enjoy some of the most diverse people watching the city has to offer, without pressure to purchase or limit on time to splodge.

Gallery / Studio

OPPORTUNITIES ‘The Muse’ continues to host exhibitions and events from up and coming artists and performers throughout the year and is also available for venue hire through their website application. (Open Wednesday – Sunday 12:00 – 6:00pm or by prior request)

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INTERIORS

Home Life

My inspirations: Tamsin de Roemer

The woman behind the stylish de Roemer store (cashmere, jewellery and handbags) in Connaught Village lives with her husband Justin Packshaw and children Lula (6) and Blake (3) in a sprawling house in Harlesden (“the new Notting Hill,” she calls it).

“The interiors are influenced by travels, mostly to Japan and India – hence a tatami-inspired bed which I had made, and various religious icons.”

“We have had house now for some time and renovated the whole place from small rooms to an open-plan feeling.”

“There’s a sense of history with some Regency furniture and old paintings as well as some skip finds. Overall, it’s quite eclectic – or a right mess, depending how you look at it.”

“Justin and I both spent time in the sun when we were small and we are generally influenced by sun and heat, so there’s lots of colour and light.” 45

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INTERIORS

A greener vision of the future

Grand Designs’ Kevin McCloud is returning to London’s Excel Centre with another of his self-confessed pet projects. Absolutely gets the lowdown

hevin McCloud’s ‘Green Heroes’ at this year’s Grand Designs Live event champions the most innovative and forward-thinking British designers and manufacturers. It will provide guests with the opportunity to learn about brands that are paving the way towards a greener future. The presenter and design guru, who has a particular interest in sustainability, is host of the popular Grand Designs television show, on which the London event at the Excel Centre is based. This latest project exhibits his big green heart on a plate. Sponsored by Daikin, the exhibition will showcase an eclectic mix of varied eco brands, concepts and products. His selection ranges from the amusing (Sheep Poo Paper) to the intelligent (Accoya wood). The former is a producer of beautiful handcrafted papers using inventive and natural methods; its unique Sheep Poo Paper is made using fibres recovered from sheep dung – how’s that for recycling? (SheepPooPaper.com)

The latter has brought its special wood to market after more than 75 years’ of research and development. Accoya is the material of choice for exterior applications, and its properties include incredible durability and dimensional stability – it even comes with a 50-year guarantee (accoya.com). These innovations, whether small or large, aim to improve housing and our way of living for future generations to enjoy. For McCloud, this is the third year he has been involved in London’s largest design show. ‘From the start I wanted a mix of ideas,’ he says. ‘Radical, environmentallyfriendly products from large manufacturers that we should be using more; clever, recycled materials; stuff from small craftspeople; low-energy technologies and brilliant cross-fertilised, creative ideas.’ Grand Designs Live plays host to over 500 exhibiting companies across six dedicated sections, from Grand Interiors sponsored by Dulux, to Grand Technology and Grand Gardens. As well as

exploring the various stalls and exhibitions, visitors can try out sustainable build techniques with workshops and demos on thatching, cobbing and more. The event also offers practical hands-on advice and fantastic interior ideas from the Interiors Theatre. Grand Designs Live London, sponsored by Direct Line, runs from Saturday 5 to Sunday 13 May at ExCeL London. Book tickets in advance and save £4; book online at granddesignslive.com, or call the 24-hour box office on 0844 854 1348. Under-15s go free.

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INTERIORS

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hose nice people at Nu-line Bathrooms have been launching some lovely new ranges this month. Kohler, an American manufacturer that has been making bathroom products for over 100 years, is one, and its Escale suite is inspired by the form of a sail in the wind and Japanese ceramic tableware design. A timeless classic, Escale combines flexibility with highly distinctive design. And the Reve collection, designed with personalisation and versatility in mind, offers a contemporary and distinctive geometric design with soft lines for added elegance. Then there are new ranges from Ambiance Bain, originally a small family business from the Rhone valley that produces some stunning ranges including the Oasy, which has the charm of a full curve and a generously proportioned basin. Oasy stands out with its elegance and large storage capacity, beautifully elegant and stylish. Quadra is a range with generous storage space and completely harmonious looks, symbolising the contemporary way of life. And don’t miss the funky taps from Treemme of Italy. These gorgeous contemporary taps come in three ranges, each one as striking as the next: Philo, with simple linear lines and bold curves; Arche, with strong elegant angles and smooth lines and Clip, with simple circles and cylinder sections. All the ranges are so tactile you will be thinking up reasons just to use them.

Nu-Line Bathrooms, Unit 12-14 Malton Road W10 5UP; 020 3582 3517; nulinebathrooms.rtrk.co.uk 48

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KütchenArte - stunning, quality European fitted kitchens. At KütchenArte we are experts in designing the kitchen you’ve always wanted at a price much lower than you would ever expect. ‘Create. Don’t copy’ remains our motto via our Premium German kitchen range, whilst Spring also sees the introduction of our sensational new ‘Europa’ range, bringing the best of European design and quality to your home, now allowing us to produce a stunning kitchen for you from as little as just £6,000. Let us join you on the journey of planning your perfect, practical & stylish fitted kitchen as the centrepiece of your home, with service that is second to none. We are so confident of our quality and service that we offer outstanding warranties, reinforced by a team that care as much about your home as you do. Our Premium German range carries a lifetime guarantee on its carcase, whilst ALL of our installations hold an amazing FIVE YEAR workmanship guarantee. Best of all, our products and services can be wrapped up in one easy monthly payment with a range of great finance options. You can either visit us in store, or allow us to come to your home, to provide a complimentary expert design service. This is backed up with a real desire to create a kitchen as individual as you are, from almost half a million possible combinations of doors, carcase colours, worktops, handles and accessories. Das ist perfektion.

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AZ to

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Absolutely’s alphabetical selection of top local shops, eateries and experts

B U S I N E S S E S

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ANGY’S

is for…

BIG TABLE

For nails and beauty in Kensington, Angy’s offers it all. There are Angy’s gel nails as well as paraffin wax manicures, South American pedicures and hot bootie aromatherapy treatments - plus a variety of facials and body treatments as well as threading and waxing. All in small, cosy surroundings. 131d Kensington Church Street W8; 020 7792 0724

They’d love to make you a fantastic bed. It’s what they do best. They thought this would no longer be possible when Crossrail decided to demolish them. But thanks to massive local support, they can continue making natural eco-friendly products. Crossrail backtracked. Now they can sleep easy in our beds and so can you. Go and try one. 56 Great Western Road W9 3BT; 020 7221 5058; bigtable.co.uk

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COCO NAILS Enjoy a glass of fi zz and some Ukai sushi with your manicure at Coco, which offers superior hand and foot pampering for men and women. Whether you’re in a rush or have time to linger, Coco has the perfect treatment. 267 Portobello Road W11; 020 7243 1113; coconailbar.com

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DOG IN THE CITY

A team of professional and passionate dog lovers providing a premium service to suit all your doggy needs including, dog walking, doggy day creche, doggy boutique hotel, doggy grooming, doggy vet visits. Offering some of the most competitive prices for pet care in London, the aim is to make doggy daycare less stressful for you. They even provide a free door-to-door service for your pooch in our Complimentary Doggy Taxi. While you’re busy, they’ll make sure your dog gets the play and the love and attention you’d expect, giving you peace of mind. 3 Westside Court W9; 07977 586126; doginthecity.co.uk

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EGO HAIR There’s a friendly, community feel to this Salusbury Road salon, with people popping in and out. Ego is an ammonia-free zone, using L’Oreal’s Inoa and Dia colours -and it’s full of character and charm, and chatty owner Andy Loizou will entertain you as he works. 45 Salusbury Road NW6; 020 7625 4811

ELLIS STOCKWELL PERSONAL TRAINING

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F.Food and face

This duo promises to shrink your body by at least one dress size in six weeks (some clients have even lost up to two stone). Paul Ellis an ex-professional football player and Tom Stockwell who’s an ex-boxer will hone your entire body, for a gorgeous sinewy figure,with speed – but the likeable pair never fail to keep it fun. 69 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3ND 020 8964 3797; ellisstockwell.co.uk

FOOD & FACE For fabulous beauty and complementary health treatments that are more than skin deep. May’s special offers include a 30-minute back massage at just £28 and 90-minute luxury back, face and scalp treatment at only £60. Also on the menu are Environ and Dermalogica facials, waxing, manicure and pedicure, hot stone and pregnancy massage. Complementary therapies include Nutrition, Osteopathy, Reflexology and Acupuncture. 31 Lonsdale Road NW6 6RA; 020 7372 3934; FoodandFace.com

FLYOVER W10’s newest live music and arts venue. Expect to hear the most up front electronic sounds, the heaviest reggae baselines, historic folk ballads, mind expanding jazz improvisation; soulful music from all corners of the globe and everything in between. The well-curated line-up of events will be matched with a bar that features an equally eclectic array of boutique wines, hand-crafted beers, soft drinks and friendly staff. They are keen to involve local people both as customers and in other ways. If you want to be involved, get in touch. Contact huey@theflyoverco.uk for details of music or promotional opportunities; theflyover.co.uk 53

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THE GOLBORNE DELI

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THE GATHERING GODDESS The Gathering Goddess has been sourcing beautiful vintage fashion from around the globe for 10 years. Their collection features unique pieces from every era, with all garments in near-new condition and expertly cleaned and ecologically treated for moths. Vintage is more than just fashion. It is a unique piece of wearable history that blends the energy of its history with the unique personality of its new owner. Go and gather your unique vintage treasures at the new Notting Hill shop. 219 Westbourne Park Road, W11 1EA; (next to The Mutz Nutz)

The Golborne Deli is situated halfway up the ultra-hip Golborne Road in the shadow of the famous Trellick Tower. The Golborne Deli has become a favourite with locals, artists and the hipsters who bother to make the trip to the best end of Portobello Road. Serving expertly made Illy coffees as well as a complete list of light, freshly prepared food including salads, Italian inspired mains like mac’n’cheese, pasta and lasagne as well as paninis and freshly baked pastries, the Golborne Deli offers a true taste of this thrilling London locale. 100 Golborne Road, W10 5PS; 020 8969 6907; golbornedeli.com

HAIR LOUNGE Tucked away at the north end of the boho chic portobello road you will discover one of its unique and distinctive gems called “Hair Lounge”. This amazing salon was opened in 2003 by award winning celebrity hairstylist Charlotte Mensah and over the years she has built a styling team and clientele that are truly reflective of its location. You will always be welcomed with a warm and friendly smile by a member of her team and don’t be surprised if you’re sitting next to an A-list celebrity or fashionista. 347 Portobello Road W10 5SA; 020 8969 9444; hairlounge.co.uk

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JIVITA AYURVEDA

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Experience an extensive array of massages and body treatments that draw the rich and organic wellness of Ayurveda. Jivita Ayurveda is an exotic sanctuary that lets one enjoy signature treatments with natural ingredients and eloquent rituals that nourish, revitalise and rejuvenates the mind, body and soul. To ensure lifestyle balance and vitality, health consultations detox and packages are also available at this spa haven. Look no further for the ultimate spa experience. 89 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3ND; 020 8964 4993; .jivitaayurveda.com

THE IDLER ACADEMY

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At once, bookshop, gourmet cafe and events space, The Idler Academy, inspired by 18th century coffeehouses, plays host to all manner of creative movers and shakers. Stop by for a Monmouth coffee or slice of artisan cake and a leisurely browse of the unique bookshelves, a treasure trove of new and second hand tomes. Book in for a wide variety of inspiring lessons like Ancient Philosophy, Grammar, Latin, Classical Music or the Ukulele. Join the mailing list on line for updates on courses and daily events. 81 Westbourne Park Road W2 5QH; 020 7221 5908; idler.co.uk

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JIMMIE MARTIN At the Kensington showroom of established luxury brand Jimmie Martin there’s an ever-changing array of one-off commissions for the rich and famous along with special collaborations. The most recent is a throne commissioned by Madonna for the Super Bowl and a stunning collaboration with photographer Terry O’Neill. Smaller commissions now include cushions, lamps and busts with a twist. At the same address is Jimmie Martin & McCoy the exciting interior design company launched last year. 77 Kensington Church Street W8 4BG; 020 7938 1852; jimmiemartin.com

KATHY ANDON INTERIORS

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KELL SKÖTT HAIRCARE In the hands of Kell Skött Haircare’s award winning team, you can choose from just a simple trim or tidy up, through to a sharp new look. In-depth complimentary consultations mean that you will always come out with a style personalised just for you. Catering for both men and women, they have salons in W11 and W10. 020 7229 1671; 020 8964 3004; .kellskotthaircare.com

Kathy Andon Interiors is a well-established international soft furnishing company with 30 years experience, her studio and retail showroom is in Maida Vale, W9, offering beautiful soft furnishings made on-site for contemporary and traditional interiors. With a vast selection of fabrics & wallpaper from Osborne & Little, Zimmer + Zohde, Designers Guild, Romo Wemyss etc. Tracks & poles by Silent Gliss & Bradley. 45 Elgin Avenue, W9 3PP 020 7286 1007 kathyandoninteriors.co.uk

LOVE KR

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Located in the heart of Kensal Rise, love kr boutique stocks an eclectic mix of women’s fashion shoes and jewellery. British designers Sara Berman, Olivia Rubin and H by Hudson shoes sit alongside Paige Premium Denim, Maison Scotch and Des Petit Hauts with luxury scarf label Lilly and Lionel plus jewellery by Alice Menter & Miquella to complete the mix. love kr (next to kensal rise station) 98a Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3JN lovekr.co.uk

KÜTCHENARTE KütchenArte are experts in designing and installing the stunning kitchen you’ve always wanted, with a service that is second-to-none. ‘Create. Don’t copy’ remains their motto, via their Premium German kitchens and new Europa range. With designs ranging from £6,000 to £60,000, let KütchenArte join you on the journey of planning your perfect, practical and stylish fitted kitchen. Lifetime carcass guarantee and Europe’s longest installation warranty. kutchenarte.com 55

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THE MUSE GALLERY

The Muse gallery and studio is a place of serenity away from the chaos of the weekend market. The Muse at 269 was established in 2003 as a platform for established and emerging artists. At the core of the operation is a residency program with artists working on the premises. The residents are always ready to walk and talk you around with a coffee, or you can sit and use free wireless in a quiet colourful space, plus enjoy some of the most diverse people watching the city has to offer. The Muse is also available for venue hire. Open Wednesday – Sunday 12– 6pm or by prior request; 0207 7928 588; themuseat269.com

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MARIE-CHANTAL Marie-Chantal, the luxury children’s clothing brand, is renowned for designing gorgeous clothes and accessories for girls and boys from birth up to 12 years old. From the stylish cuts, playful embroidery to the signature buttons, detailing is key and quality a given. The clothes resonate with contemporary chic – a clean, crisp look with a playful twist. Marie-Chantal clothes capture the beauty and innocence of childhood, while maintaining the philosophy that children should dress like children. 61A Ledbury Road, W11 2AA; mariechantal.com

MARIO’S KEYS Mario’s has been serving the local community since the 1980s, fitting locks, cutting keys, installing window grilles and safes. They also supply and fit solid wooden replacement doors, and can arrange fitting of alarms, CCTV, video and audio entry systems. The shop is open Monday to Saturday 9 to 5.30 and offers a 24 hour, seven days a week service. The phone diverts to a locksmith when they’re closed. 132 Talbot Road, W11 1JA; 020 7727 5429; .marioskeys.com

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NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES Neal’s Yard Remedies is the UK’s foremost destination for scientifically formulated, ethical, effective, natural health and beauty. The comprehensive range of award-winning, certified organic products, is handmade in their eco-factory in Dorset, using their own ‘home grown’ and sustainably sourced, certified organic ingredients. Check out the latest launches in your local NYR store on Church Street, Kensington; 020 7938 2869

ORIT

Much-loved destination boutique for jewellery and accessories, Orit is a treasure trove for both classic and whimsical pieces sourced from a myriad of designers across the world. Fine fun jewellery by Coretta, Efrat, Shiri,10m2 and others. Great for gifts and regular customers know that frequent visits to Orit will prevent them from missing one-off exclusive pieces. Fluo Necklaces by Coretta, Silver or Silver & Goldfill Beads on Satin Ribbon, from £60. 95 Westbourne Park Villas W2 5ED 020 7727 8895 oritlondon.com

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PIPA Pipa is a unique independent boutique and a favorite stop for women in Maida Vale looking for gorgeous clothes and gifts. You’ll find the most gorgeous scarves, tops and jewellery, all carefully selected and often exclusive to Pipa. Labels like Alice + Olivia, Velvet, Antik Batik and MIH sit along many other hard-to-find designers. 1 Formosa Street W9 1EE; 020 7266 2365

ABSOLUTELY P R O M OT I O N

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POWERVIBE Join the Powervibe Fitness Studio and take part in the 5k Race For Life on Sunday 27th May at 11am in Hyde Park. Quote group ID MM5020 upon registration online and participate in this on going fight against cancer. Race For Life is the UK’s largest womenonly fundraising event which has significantly helped contribute to Cancer Research UK’s work. Men are encouraged to register as volunteers to help on the day and children are welcome to join in the celebrations at this family event. Get your trainers on and meet the Powervibe team at their Westbourne Park Villa’s studio at 9.30am on the day. They look forward to seeing you there. 95A Westbourne Park Villas W2 5ED; 020 7229 9614; powervibe.co.uk

PORTOBELLO GREEN FITNESS CLUB You’ll see results at the club that’s different. The offer this month is half price joining fee with a free personal training session, free gym workshops, free programme and free squash and table tennis as well and this unique gym boasts a fair-trade fitness model that lets you use clubs and pools across London on their Fitness Network membership. 3-5 Thorpe Close, W10 5XL; 020 8960 2221 / 020 8962 5753; pgfc.org.uk

PORTOBELLO GREEN ARCADE Everyone looks better after a visit! 20 boutiques offer fashion, gifts and accessories for men, women and children. From Jubilee-friendly footwear for kids by Rosie Life at Sasti to stylish mens suits, to die-for bags at Verde, jewellery and more. You can find everything from great mens suits at Adam, through new styles for mums and children to the more risqué delights of What Katie Did’s handmade corsets and lingerie. Portobello Green Arcade. 281 Portobello Road W10 5TZ (under the Westway Bridge & off Thorpe Close) portobellodesigners.com 57

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THE QUEENSBURY

Willesden’s favourite deli and pub - enjoy delicious coffee cakes, soups and salads at the communal table at the deli, or heartier meals at the stylishly decorated gastropub - or simply a drink on the terrace outside. 68 & 110a Walm Lane NW2; 020 8452 0774; thequeensbury.net

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REBEL BAKERY The Rebel Bakery, Kensal Rise, is a scrumptious cake company with a rebellious streak. Passionate about cakes that look and taste fabulous they specialise in wickedly delicious celebration cakes, cupcakes and gluten free treats. From classic Strawberries and Cream to kooky Cake Burgers for kids of all ages, we create all kinds of crazy cakes to tickle your taste buds! 07868 567 026; rebelbakery.co.uk

SUB COUTURE

SWANKY LASH & BROW BAR Swanky Lash & Brow Bar is an intimate, friendly gem on the west London beauty scene. Whether it’s a quick manicure or a champagne pamper session with friends, this is the place to come. Opened 13months ago by two sisters Swanky prides itself on using only the best products on the market and has become the must-go place for perfect eyebrows, long lasting manicures, pedicures and lusciously long lashes. Love Yourself, Love Swanky. 26 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3JD; 020 8968 9408 Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Swanky-Lash-Brow-Bar/

SUB COUTURE boutique loves vibrant colour. Summer sees the launch of Hale Bob: Oriental print dresses, LA’s rock royalty brand with customers including Halle Berry and Heidi Klum. He Loved An Angel: floaty embellished silk dresses and sequin jackets. Good Company: jeggings in an array of bright colours, a steal at £50. Sign up for the subcouture.co.uk newsletter and receive a promo code for a special discount for Absolutely readers.

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TREEHOUSE HARDWOOD FLOORING Treehouse offers an extensive range of flooring to supply only, or if required, a fitting service can be arranged.Options include structural engineered extra wide boards, solid or engineered herringbone and chevron parquet, as well as special bespoke finishes. Work tops, stair cladding, and decking are also available to order. Treehouse also stocks a range of related products in its Notting Hill showroom such as oils, varnish and cleaning materials. 16 Talbot Rd W11 1JR; 020 7460 0376; email; sales@treehouseflooring.co.uk 116 Talbot Road, W11 1JR; 020 7460 0376 58

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ABSOLUTELY P R O M OT I O N TENPHYSIO

TenPhysio is a new and very different kind of Physiotherapy, Osteopathy and Sports Massage practice. Their overall goal is to reduce pain, decrease stiffness and increase mobility. Their expert, effective, results-driven approach helps their clients to become stronger, happier and injury-free, enabling them to lead a fuller, more active life They have treatment rooms in Notting Hill, Mayfair and St James’s (and in Chiswick from May). info@tenphysio.com; tenphysio.com

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THE TILE SHOP With more than 20 years experience, The Tile Shop provides a friendly service and honest advice for all your tiling needs. It has a wide range of wall and floor tiles including porcelain, ceramic, glass, stone, mosaics and Victorian reproduction wall and floor tiles. 4-6 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 3JD; 020 8968 9497

UKAI Enjoy traditional sushi in a contemporary and ambient setting, or sit back and wait for it to be delivered to you. With branches on Portobello Road and Westbourne Grove, Ukai is a big favourite in west London, whether for a quick lunch or catering for a big event With the simplest recipe; the freshest sustainable fish, the highest quality of ingredients and a trained and loving chef. 223 Portobello Road W11; 020 7243 3222; 2 Westbourne Grove W2; 020 7727 8222; ukai.co.uk

TYLERS HOMECARE Absolutely the most useful shop in the whole of Notting Hill Gate, stocking everything from barbecues to flowers via garden furniture, hoover bags, coffee machines, Jubilee decorations, lightbulbs, paint and just about everything you need for any DIY project at all. 104-106 Notting Hill Gate W11; 020 7908 9800

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VESSEL GALLERY Part boutique, part gallery, Vessel Gallery is dedicated to contemporary craftsmanship with regular exhibitions and represents the work of acclaimed international designers and brands. Although Vessel’s overarching focus is on art glass and lighting – both decorative and functional ceramics, gifts and objets d’art also have their place in-store. During May and June Vessel Gallery is showcasing the work by French glass artist Jeremy Maxwell Wintrebert, his work often echoes the feeling of billowing textiles on the brink of collapse and the pieces combine both power and frailty. 1 14 Kensington Park Road W11 2PW; 020 7727 8001 vesselgallery.com

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WORLDLY WICKED AND WISE 17 years of kids’ toys, cards, gifts, Neal’s Yard body products, kitchen accessories, jewellery, slinky kimonos, and other eclectica. With 17 years of picture framing experience, they have just completed framing work for Kensington Palace and the South Bank Centre. There’s a gallery space and a new framing workshop opening in Kensal Rise in early May. Unit 3, 2a Wrentham avenue, NW10 (under the Special Yoga Centre).

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WESTWAY SPORTS CENTRE Westway Sports Centre is gearing up for the new tennis season. In addition to eight indoor courts, two new all-year round synthetic red-clay courts are the latest state-of-the-art additions. But its not all about tennis with two new third-gen football pitches and new climbing walls as well. 1 Crowthorne Road W10 6RP; 020 8969 0992 westwaysportscentre.org.uk

W10 PERFORMANCE W10 Performance is a results based personal training gym in Ladbroke Grove. We offer personalised nutrition and bespoke personal training programs which help both men and women get fit and lose weight, quickly. As well as out all access and metabolic circuit memberships we also offer proven stand-alone and time efficient fitness and fat loss personal training programs. We help real people get real results.Unit 3, 69 St Marks Road W10 6JG 020 3489 5428 w10performance.com

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ZAIKA Kensington High Street’s luxurious Zaika is to the regular curry house what the Taj Hotel in Mumbai is to the backpacker guesthouse in Goa. For luxury and sophistication, they’re in entirely different leagues. Zaika, housed in a former bank, is all opulence and extravagance, making it the first restaurant of its type to gain a Michelin star. 1 Kensington High Street, W8; 020 7795 6533; zaika-restaurant.co.uk 60

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YOGALOFT

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Queen’s Park local and yoga teacher Susannah Tomkins opened Yogaloft this year. A unique and inspiring space on Lonsdale Road, it attracts everyone from complete beginners to dedicated yogis. Yogaloft offers classes 7 days a week in a range of yoga styles, led by teachers carefully selected for their skill, dedication and knowledge. Drop by for a class and take up the great introductory offer of £30 for 30 days of unlimited yoga classes! Visit yogaloftlondon.com to see class timetable and sign up for £30 for 30 days. 3 Lonsdale Road, NW6 6RA

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Tommi time How has becoming a mother changed your life and what foodie knowledge do you most look forward to imparting on your daughter? Being a mother is the most miraculous experience of my life and has totally blown me away. I cannot wait to share my love of food with my daughter and get cooking with her. I hope she’ll learn to love the healthy stuff as well as the occasional naughtiness (when she’s bored we can always make doughnuts). Did you always want to be a chef? No! I wish I had and I may have started sooner. I wanted to dance... Was there a single meal that changed your life? I used to think that tasting menus were over the top and destroyed the pure pleasure of eating - until I stumbled into the Ledbury five or six years ago and discovered a kind of food nirvana.

What projects do you have going on at the moment? The Wahaca cookbook will be out in June, we have an amazing new site in Charlotte Street that we are experimenting with and I am embarking on a piggy project that involves recycling food waste. How did you came to be involved with Great Taste at The Cadogan? [Miers is one of several chefs writing menus for the Chelsea hotel’s restaurant] I have been involved with the Great Taste awards on and off for several years now; the awards are a highly critical assessment of the best products and produce to come out of Britain and a real celebration of small businesses in the food and drinks industry. The

IMAGE: AMY MURRELL

Masterchef winner, Wahaca founder and Kensal Riser Thomasina Miers is back after having a baby. Katie Randall snatches ten minutes with her

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award winners produce some seriously delicious foods. What is your favourite dish on the menu at Wahaca? The new Devon crab taquito is great and so is the fideus with their garlicky chipotle adobo: a silky, wanton mess of noodles, tomato sauce and smoky spice. Top three ingredients to cook with? Seasonal vegetables – currently I am loving asparagus, broad beans and fennel. Also a good Parmesan can transform almost anything into a seriously good eat and I am never without good extra virgin olive oil. What dish do you knock up for a quick supper? Welsh rarebit is a favourite at home with

I can take off to India and Southeast Asia with my small family. What was the Masterchef experience really like? Terrifying and wonderful. I learnt a huge amount but look how much they learn today. It is the most amazing experience to be personally tutored by all those incredible chefs. You went to St Paul’s School. What were the school dinners like? Yes I did. The one hole in a St Paul’s education is food, which not only equips you with the basic tools of survival, but is also connected to everything from the environment and politics to how our current food policies are bringing the NHS to its knees.

BEING A MOTHER IS THE MOST MIRACULOUS EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE AND HAS TOTALLY BLOWN ME AWAY leaves from the garden but we pretty much like everything... Best culinary advice that you have ever been given? Cook with the best ingredients that you can find and you won’t have to fuss too much about what you do with them. Biggest kitchen disaster? Burning 7kg of chocolate when I was making a mega batch of chilli chocolate truffles. Sometimes you have to learn the hard way. Where do you go to eat in London when you are not working? The River Cafe, Quo Vadis, the Ledbury, Bocca Di Lupo, Hereford Road, the Cafe Anglais, The Ledbury, the Dock Kitchen and Duck Soup. Future plans? So many I don’t know where to start. But to begin with, a sabbatical where

How did your love of Mexican cuisine come about? I took a gap year and travelled to Mexico, not knowing anything about their food. Mexicans have a real foodie culture, like the Italians. It is celebration food and very maternal cooking, grandmothers and mothers cook for their family and all that knowledge is passed down. I had an epiphany when I got back to England and realised that I couldn’t find that food here at all. I went back ten years later and got a job there because I had to see if I had imagined this amazing food or not. This time I travelled around the country. It’s so biodiverse, with 200 types of chillies, various corns – yellow, red and black – and all these colours. I now go once or twice a year. I love it – everyone’s mad about food. 63

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Saporitalia

A piece of Napoli at 222 Portobello Road 020 7243 3257

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FEAST WITH CARLUCCIO Join Antonio Carluccio for lunch at Westbourne Grove’s Carluccio’s on 16 May, when the godfather of Italian cooking is hosting a meal to celebrate the launch of his new book and TV show. Over a three course feast at a large table (featuring recipes from the book), the charismatic foodie will share stories and gossip about Two Greedy Italians Eat Italy, currently screening on the BBC. Guests can purchase their own copy of the book at the special launch price of £15 and have it personally signed by the great man himself. Tickets are £35 per person and can be booked on 020 7243 8164.

FLOWER POWER Feng Sushi is adding a special floral-inspired Green foliage maki to the menu to celebrate this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show (22 to 26 May). The maki will be packed with microherbs, avocado, coriander pesto, chives and rocket, on sale in all seven restaurants, including Notting Hill Gate and Kensington Church Street. fengsushi.co.uk

Foodie news From the gastro front

Sweet talk Baking tips from cupcake maestro Local Sugar 1 Crack on it’s best to crack eggs one at a time, into a small bowl, before adding to a cake batter. This way you can ensure the egg is fresh (it also ensures you don’t accidentally get any shell cracked into the cake). 2 Not too squishy Work with butter that is soft, but not too soft… Leaving butter out of the fridge one hour before baking is best. It’s soft enough to beat, but not so soft that it becomes too oily and unmanageable, particularly if you are piping buttercream. 3 Quality in Never skimp on quality ingredients. Local Sugar always uses organic British butter and milk, free range, organic eggs, Fair Trade cocoa and Madagascar Bourbon vanilla. 4 Simple style Fabulous decorations don’t have to be too fussy. Try a raspberry on top of vanilla swirled buttercream, or a strawberry with chocolate curls. 5 Spice up your life If you are adding citrus zest, vanilla, cinnamon or other flavours, ensure you mix them in when beating the butter and sugar together, to ensure the flavour is thoroughly incorporated.

6 Sugar, sugar The type of sugar you use makes a big difference to the final outcome of a cake. Sugar creates the crumb and texture, so a more refined sugar, like caster sugar, will give a finer crumb to your cake. 7 Rise and shine You have run out of self-raising flour. Not to worry. Use one cup of plain flour and two tsp of baking powder. Voila. Self-raising flour. 8 Are you ready yet? You can test your cake in two ways. Touch the top lightly. If it springs back, it’s ready. Alternatively, if you push a skewer or toothpick through the centre of the cake and it comes out clean, it’s ready. 9 Wait for it Always leave your cakes in the tin, resting on a wire rack, for 5-10mins before attempting to remove them, to prevent cracking.

10 One for you, two for me

Always make a few more extra cupcakes than you think you need. This way, you can taste-test your own creations. Local Sugar is a favourite at Kensal Flea and owner Melissa Riddington delivers cupcakes to order all over town. 07425 175 594 or email melissa@ ilovelocalsugar.com 65

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FO EO AT DI N &G DORUI N TK

The Queensbury 110a Walm Lane NW2 020 8452 0774 thequeensbury.net

hen the Queensbury Deli opened, a state of excitement overcame the people of NW2. Willesden had never had a deli before and this (followed soon after by the arrival of Foxtons) signified a whiff of gentrification. There are many good shops in the parade, including the tiny though brilliant charity shop for the blind, the excellent Sushi-Say, the popular Shawarma Express and the exotic Metro Textiles – the recent collection of pop-up shops called New Windows on Willesden Green is another highlight – but a deli opened a whole new world of possibilites. Now the wellestablished deli is busy, and well-stocked; there’s a range of sandwiches and soups, plus cakes, of course – alongside a programme of events and dinners. Every first Saturday of the month, for instance, there’s a Story Meal hosted by Jean Marc Pierson, where traditional stories are told by professional storytellers in a sociable and – of course

– well-fed setting. There’s a catering service too, plus cakes and cupcakes to order for any occasion. The deli is an offshoot of the Queensbury, Willesden Green’s popular gastropub. We visited the pub for a midweek lunch and it’s a stylish-looking place, all gilt-framed mirrors and Fornasetti wallpaper, Chesterfield sofas and mismatched chairs. Foodwise, the lunch menu is simple, with a selection

of sandwiches and salads, plus various starters suitable for sharing. We enjoyed a plate of tasty whitebait and crispy salt and pepper squid before sampling the heartier options: a clubs sandwich, a classic burger and a Caesar salad (the menu also features a classic fishfinger sandwich). All of it was good, and the dinner menu features a wider range, including game stew with red cabbage, twelve-hour cooked pork belly and scallops with cauliflower puree. In summer months, the decked terrace on Walm Lane is fi lled with a young crowd, making this one of the area’s most popular venues.

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R FO NT ING U O R ISC RDE D O 5% LINE ON

FREE DELIVERY 020 7727 8222

www.ukai.co.uk

HOSOMAKI 5 Pieces of thin sushi roll 20. Salmon 21. Spicy salmon 22. Tuna 23. Spicy tuna 24. Cucumber 25. Avocado 90. Cucumber with organic brown rice 91. Avocado with organic brown rice 92. Salmon with organic brown rice FUTOMAKI 5 Pieces of thick sushi roll 30. Japanese Omelette (eggs) inari, kanpyo, chives, enoki mushrooms and cucumber 31. Salmon and avocado 32. Tuna and avocado - tuna, avocado, chives and enoki mushrooms 33. Vegetable - yellow daikon, cucumber, red pepper, green beans & chives 57. Crispy duck (roasted) duck, cucumber, mint, enoki mushrooms, chives, & hoisin sauce NIGIRI 2 Pieces on a small bed of sushi rice 10. Salmon 11. Spicy salmon 12. Tuna 13. Spicy tuna 14. Prawn 15. Japanese Omelette (eggs) 16. Octopus with Teriyaki sauce 17. Seabass 18. Grilled eel 19. Hamachi (subject to availability) 27. Ikura (salmon eggs) 28. Mackerel 29. Chilli beef with teriyaki sauce SASHIMI 4 Fillets of fresh raw fish 1. Salmon 2. Spicy salmon 3. Tuna 4. Spicy tuna 5. Hamachi (subject to availability)

£3.50 £3.75 £4.30 £4.50 £3.10 £3.25 £3.30 £3.30 £4.30

£3.70 £4.80 £5.50 £4.70 £5.60

£3.60 £3.90 £4.10 £4.30 £3.90 £2.70 £3.80 £4.60 £5.10 £5.60 £6.20 £3.60 £5.60

£5.50 £5.70 £6.40 £6.55 £7.25

6. Seabass UKAI dressing £6.50 7. Chilli beef with Teriyaki sauce £5.80 64. Crunchy oriental broccoli £5.40 with sesame dressing URAMAKI 65. Seaweed salad Sukura £5.10 2 Inside-out rolled sushi cress & Wakame seaweed 40. Rocket -cucumber, red selection, cucumber, £4.70 pepper, chives and enoki bean sprout, sesame seeds, mushrooms edamame beans and dressing 41. California - crab meat, £4.80 mango, cream cheese and UKAI MIXED PLATTERS masago These selections can 42. Salmon and avocado £4.80 not be altered salmon, avocado and 70. Salmon mix: Sashimi x4, £10.90 sesame seeds Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 43. UKAI california - salmon, £5.10 71. Spicy salmon mix: Sashimi £11.50 cream cheese, rocket and x4, Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 cucumber 72. Tuna mix: Sashimi x4, £12.90 Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 UKAI SPECIALITIES 73. Spicy tuna mix: Sashimi £13.50 50. 4x Oysters (Subject to x4, Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 £6.60 availability) served with 74. Veggie mix: Omelette £9.50 orange and ponzu dressing nigiri x2, Cucumber hosomaki 52. 8x UKAI pancake Japanese £4.90 x5, Vegetable futomaki x5 pancake with cucumber, 75. UKAI mix: Edamame, £19.00 chives, inari and hoi sin Salmon sashimi x4, Prawn sauce nigiri x2, Rocket uramaki 53. 4x Tuna tartar finely x5, Tuna Hosomaki x5 £5.70 chopped raw tuna in lemon 76. Jumbo mix: Edamame, £26.00 pepper and mirin dressing Salmon sashimi x4, Tuna served in cucumber cups, sashimi x4, Salmon nigiri chives and tobiko x2, Prawn nigiri x2, Tuna 54. 4x Salmon tartar finely nigiri x2, Cucumber £5.60 chopped raw salmon in hosomaki x5 chilli wasabi and mayo77. Party mix 90 pieces: £85.00 nnaise served in cucumber Generous selection of cups and tobiko sashimi, nigiri and maki 55. 4x Inari sushi seasoned tofu £3.80 beautifully presented ideal pouches of rice, sesame, for 8-10 people - Allow ginger and chives preparation time 56. Tuna tataki seared tuna with £8.60 78. Sashimi mix: Salmon x4, £16.50 sesame seeds and miso Tuna x4, Fish of the day x4 dressing 79. Tuna & salmon mix: £14.00 Salmon sashimi x2, Tuna SALADS sashimi x2, Salmon hosomaki 60. 6x Daikon rocket salad roll £5.90 x2, Tuna hosomaki x2, rocket, avocado, red pepper, Salmon nigiri x1, chives, enoki mushroom and Tuna nigiri x1 daikon ginger dressing 150.UKAI Gojyu 50 pieces: £45.00 61. Spinach salad roll blanched £4.90 Generous selection of sushi spinach, sesame seeds and beautifully presented, orange ponzu dressing ideal for 4 people - Allow 62. Green mango and papaya £5.90 preparation time salad carrots, coriander, mint, peanuts, tomatoes with MISO SOUPS red nahm jim 80. Miso, tofu, seaweed, spring £1.75 63. UKAI salad Rocket, lettuce, £5.40 onions and chive oil soy beans,radicchio, 83. Seafood Ramen (thin) £6.50 seaweed, sesame noodles, octopus, prawns, and pumpkin seeds with kani stick, seaweed

and chive oil 84. Seafood Udon (thick) noodles, octopus, prawns, kani stick, sea weed and chive oil 85. Vegetable Ramen (thin) noodles, tofu, spring onion and mixed vegetables 86. Vegetable Udon (thick) noodles, tofu, spring onion and mixed vegetables 87. Miso, salmon, tofu, seaweed, spring onions and chive oil SIDE DISHES 100. Edamame (hot or cold) 104. Spicy Edamame 101. White rice 102. Organic brown rice 103. Japanese mixed pickles CHIRASHI 4 Fillets of fresh raw fish (Sashimi) served on a bed of rice 110. CHIRASHI Salmon - White rice Tuna - White rice 112. SPICY CHIRASHI Spicy salmon - White rice Spicy Tuna - White rice TEMAKI 1 Piece of handroll 130. Salmon, avocado, sesame seeds and chives 131. Tuna, avocado, enoki mushroom and chives 132. Mixed vegetable 133. Ikura (Salmon eggs), cucumber and chives 134. California - Crab me at, mango, tobiko, cream cheese and chives 135. Eel, cucumber, enoki mushroom and chives DESSERTS 120. Ice-cream 2 scoops (Ask for daily flavours) 123. Warm Chocolate Brownie with your choice of icecream 125. Green tea & Vanilla Pannacotta with chocolate sauce 126. Fresh fruit plate 127. Mixed mochi

£6.50

£6.40 £6.40 £3.70

£2.85 £2.90 £2.70 £3.20 £2.70

£6.90 £7.50 £7.00 £7.60

£4.50 £5.00 £3.70 £4.90 £5.70 £5.50

£4.50 £6.10 £5.20 £4.90 £4.20

We deliver to: W1, W2, W3 (some parts), W6 (some parts), W8, W9, W10, W11, W12, W14, SW5, SW6 (some parts), SW7, NW6, NW8 & NW10

223 Portobello Road, W11 1LU | 2 Westbourne Grove, W2 5RA | 58 Poland Street, W1F 7NR *our own customer survey

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K K II D D SS DRESS UP Caramel Baby and Child have designed a special fundraising dress for Naked Heart Foundation, a charity that builds playgrounds for children in poverty. All proceeds from this adorable handcrocheted red cashmere will go straight to them, and it’s available in adult sizes too. It’s available at all Caramel stores, including 77 Ledbury Road W11, where a celebratory tea party takes place on 16 May (4-7pm) to launch the frock. caramel-shop.co.uk

LOLLY LOVERS

Absolutely

TINIES How to keep them amused

ARTY PARTY West London tots are spoilt when it comes to parties. Elaborate themes, expensive entertainers and gourmet food are de rigeur, not to mention crazy cakes and proper party dresses. At Kensal Rise’s Mini Picassos, children are loving the peg doll parties, under the instruction of the lovely Sarah Neale, who has been teaching art to tots for many years. There’s also a bubble machine and mini disco, making this a great choice for birthdays. 8 Station Terrace, NW10; minipicassos.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM MCLENNAN

Lolly season is upon us and Pedlars is stocking this limited edition Twister print by Dan Cottrell. Fab and Rocket versions are also available, for the connoisseur. Framed £235, unframed £112.50; Pedlars, 128 Talbot Road, W11; pedlars.co.uk

SUN SPECIAL No need to worry about children’s skin suffering from sun cream allergy with Green People’s chemical-free organic lotions. The awardwinning range includes a fragrance-free option as well as this lovely lavender-infused version. £15.95, greenpeople.co.uk

THE CUTEST CLOBBER Chamberlayne Road’s Kidsen is basking in the glow of having won the Telegraph’s Best for Children gong in the Small Shops Awards – and the new season’s collection is proving to be the most popular ever. Lots of yellows and bright colours are proving irresistible – and the magic Salt Water sandals (leather but waterproof enough to go paddling in) come in adult sizes too. 111 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 Melina wears Salt Water sandals in purple (£42.99), Little Duckling yellow leggings 19.99 and Wildfox Southern heart top (£59.99). 69

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ARTHUR MEEHAN PHOTOGRAPHY Elegant pregnant portraits

Marcela’s welcomes you to experience our luxurious South American Manicures and Pedicures, accompanied with our dazzling Essie spring/summer season colours. As the sun starts to shine, it is time to hit the beach! Our new highly experienced Beauty Therapist Tara has great expertise in beauty treatments, including waxing. For Brazilian and Hollywood treatments, we recommend the painless French Hot Wax which is carried out in 15-20 minutes, getting you ready for summer! We have introduced Environ, a premier quality brand that offers outstanding results for all skin types and ages. Environ products provide essential nutrients in sufficient doses to be truly effective, which result in a plumper, younger looking complexion. After many years of service, we have experienced staff and the best hospitality that maintains our fabulous reputation and client loyalty. Each treatment is tailored to ones need, in order to make your visit more personal. We are based in the heart of Kensington.

“I simply loved it. The sittings are very private and he makes you feel so comfortable. The whole shoot was done at his home and was effortless. The photos have a timeless sensual quality about them and I am so happy I did it.” Mariana

Contact the artist directly for private commissions and print sales.

UK: +44-(0)7765 676807 DK: +45-31411192

7 Holland Street, Kensington, W8 4NA

www. elegantpregnantportraits.com www.arthurmeehan.com

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Opening Hours: Monday: 10am - 6pm Tuesday - Friday: 9am - 8pm Saturday: 10am - 6pm Sunday: 10am - 5pm

19/04/2012 16:18

0207 938 1555

www.marcelas.co.uk

29/04/2012 13:11

B E AU T Y

Flower power Absolutely’s favourite spring fragrances

02 05 04

01. Penhaligon’s Juniper Sling 50ml £78, penhaligons.com 02. Jo Malone Plum Blossom Limited Edition Cologne £72, jomalone.co.uk 03. Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y 50ml £59.50, johnlewis.com 04. Chloe L’eau de Chloe Eau de Toilette 30ml £35.99, theperfumeshop.com 05. Acqua di Parma Magnolia Nobile Eau de Parfum £66, uk.spacenk.com

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H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Beauty Notes Absolutely the best salons and products

JAMIE STEVENS’ NEW KENSINGTON SALON Jamie Stevens is a very busy man. Despite greeting me warmly when I entered his Russell Gardens salon, which was almost ready for business, he had a few extra tasks to juggle during my appointment. The stylist extraordinaire was directing contractors to move posters hither and thither and explaining the vast amount of work that has gone into creating his dream London salon. Even with so many distractions, Jamie was incredibly attentive and has charm and serious hair know-how in abundance. The light, bright salon – complete with black fringing to separate the washing basin area – is luxurious and welcoming and I left with full-bodied catwalk-worthy hair. Hurrah. Jamie has won Celebrity Hairdresser of the Year 2010, styled the hair for 2011’s X Factor and works closely with his pal Gok Wan on his TV programmes… surely a nomination for British Hairdresser of the Year cannot be far off. (Katie Randall) hairbyjamiestevens.co.uk

THE LOWDOWN… JOSH WOOD’S ATELIER There’s nothing of the average salon at Josh Wood’s Atelier. Even from the outside, you’d never know there was a hairdresser here – but you’ll recognise the black doors from a picture sent with your booking confirmation email. Even inside, it’s not recognisably a salon. First there’s a waiting area, all sofas and shelves full of art books, peopled by well-groomed American women in sportswear deep in discussion with their hairstylists. I am collected and guided through a confusing cabinet of mirrors (luckily they are deliberately flattering ones) to the proper salon part, which still isn’t all that similar to most salons. There’s a menu, for a start, and you can order a healthy lunch while you’re having your hair seen to, or in my case, my toes. I was here for the new Medi-Pedi, a lengthy and thorough treatment using This Works products – and it left me with supersoft feet, smooth toes and beautifully blue nails. Without the rows of basins and mirrors, this anti-salon feels like a fluid, relaxed place to hang out, where emerging with beautiful hair (or toes) is an extra bonus. 6 Lansdowne Mews W11

THE BEAUTY CLINIC VIP BEAUTY CARD The Beauty Centre is the celebs’ salon of choice and we are loving their VIP Club Membership Card. It enables you to indulge in unlimited beauty treatments, from laser hair removal, relaxing facials and waxing to eyelash extensions, threading and 3-week manicures. Polished perfection is now within your grasp. the-beautycentre.com 72

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The expression ‘backbreaking work’ is never used to describe office jobs. It should be. Last year in the UK, 150 million working days were lost because of back pain. Many of them from jobs where the heaviest thing you have to lift is a briefcase. So why do so many workers get back pain? And what can we do to prevent it? For those who sit behind a desk, the main cause is bad posture. Sitting in a slumped position in a bad chair for hours on end, really is asking for trouble. The spine’s natural ‘S’ shape is lost. This forces the muscles to make compensations for each other in an attempt to support everything. Your lower back and hips will then adjust and also be out of place. Result? Pain, as the muscles in your back and abdomen fail to cope with the stresses and strains. To prevent this, you need to do the following: sit up straight and use a chair with good back support. Then take regular breaks. Raise the top of your computer screen to eye level and lose excess weight around your stomach. Also consider taking up a fitness regime called Pilates. Pilates is a series of stretching and strengthening exercises which

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include workouts for your leg, back, arm and stomach muscles. It was created by Joseph Pilates, in New York City in the middle of the last century. It’s designed to strengthen what we call your core muscles which are to be found in your abdominal, back and pelvic areas. This will improve co-ordination, balance and posture. You then take everything you’ve learned in our studio and apply it to your everyday life. If you find yourself sitting at a desk all day, strong core muscles are vital. And if you keep it up, Pilates will transform your body. Joseph Pilates made a promise to all his students: ‘feel better in 10 sessions, look better in 20 sessions, and after 30 sessions, you’ll have a whole new body’. We can make the same promise. We were the first studio to offer this kind of Pilates in London and we have the full range of top-of-the-line equipment, made to Joseph Pilates’ exact sepcifications. After an initial assesment, we’ll recommend the right classes so you can begin to get a better body. Pilates may even make Monday mornings feel less painfull. Go to nypilates.co.uk for more information or phone 020 7372 3490.

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H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Detox diary Park Life’s Juliet Kinsman continues her pursuit of better health without straying from her NW10 postcode

hat’s worth investing in more than your own health? Recently I’ve been seeking out some of our neighbourhood’s most positive practitioners and their edifying guidance to help improve my wellbeing, inside and out.

Locomotive personal training I never thought I’d be someone who’d have a personal trainer – they’re for super-rich businessfolk and celebrities, right? But my friend Anna Richardson told me I should give Maciej (pronounced Ma-cheh) a whirl. I reminded her that she’s a TV presenter and us regular civilians can’t afford such extravagances. Still, I gave Maciej Gross a ring – and after an hour of genuinely enjoying exercising for the first time since school, I was hooked. This fitness guru not only made it enjoyable (he has an ace sense of humour) but he instantly identified the weaknesses in my body and came up with exercises that would soon have me have me in tip-top condition. 12 weeks on, I can testify he knows his stuff.

I have lost inches from around my waist, but it’s not all about trimming down – Maciej helps you build up your strength and improve your overall physical condition, and that can only help your state of mind too. By finding a friend to train with we can halve the cost, so it’s £50 a week for two bespoke, results-guaranteeing sessions. Maciej knows a lot about nutrition and physiology – no serious lecturing if I fall off the wagon, but he does proselytise convincingly about ditching red meat and sugar – and a little eye-rolling from him at a mention of another Pizza East binge never did any woman’s figure any harm. Willesden Sports Centre, NW10 or Natural Fitness Studio, SW1. 07946 705498; locomotive.org.uk

Jivita Ayurveda Friends who spend time in India always evangelise about Shirodara, but I’ve never been convinced I need warm oil drizzled over my forehead for an hour. Signing up for this soothing therapy at this surprisingly sleek boutique NW10

retreat had made a convert of me with the first drops. ‘The Instant Stress Relief treatment works on all levels of being: physical, mental and energetic,’ says Jivita’s Anu Paavola. ‘It restores the balance of them all quickly and efficiently, provides deep relaxation and boosts blood circulation and lymphatic drainage helping to clear toxins from the tissues. Shirodhara works straight on the brain and so enhances all the processes needed for detoxification.’ There are few sanctuaries in London that offer every facet of Ayurvedic in one place, let alone in such a chic enclave right on buzzing Chamberlayne Road. Jivita’s adjoining shop also has sufficient organic food (healthy digestion is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic principles) and beauty products such as the delicious organic Ila oils – so you can keep the dream alive long after you’ve left. Treatments from £80 an hour. 89 Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Rise, NW10 (020 8964 4993; jivitaayurveda.com)

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ABSOLUTELY P R O M OT I O N

BODY MATTERS TOP TIP The LED Bed A unique concept developed exclusively for EF MEDISPA Kensington, the brand new Bodylux bed provides head to toe perfect skin. Clears acne, backne and other skin blemishes, this relaxing treatment repairs and rejuvenates by using a scientific combination of light frequencies leaving you refreshed and glowing.

With the clock ticking on the summer holiday countdown, the brains behind EF MEDISPA provide your head-to-toe butler beauty service

ith blue skies and long sunny days just around the corner, we’ve all got body baring on our minds – yet the seemingly endless list of beauty ‘to-dos’ can set a girl into a spin. So like a body-perfecting concierge, EF MEDISPA have designed a top-to-toe treatment menu to do the hard work for you – so all you have to decide is which bikini will do your new body justice. Instead of skimming the surface with lacklustre DIY treatments at home, EF MEDISPA’s inside-out approach ensures you achieve better, longer lasting results. Together Esther Fieldgrass and Channel 5’s Dr Wendy Denning created the Well Woman Diet – a medically supervised programme of high protein, low calorie meal replacements, toxin-tackling colonics and skin tightening treatments. If fad diets have failed you, this promises to shift 15-30 pounds in a matter of weeks, allowing you to wave goodbye to stubborn fat forever. With your diet in check, Vaser Lipo and EF Ultra can further streamline your hips, enhance your bust and put a body confident spring back into your step. Forget the pain and lengthy healing process of liposuction. Third generation Vaser Lipo technology removes fat to

re-contour the body using only a small probe for minimal downtime. Or for a non-invasive option, EF Ultra uses ultrasound to break down fat and radiofrequency to tighten skin for the supersvelte curves you’ve always dreamed of. Or maybe cellulite and stretch marks are your big beauty bugbears? Having scoured the world for the ultimate solution, EF MEDISPA’s new RioBlush treatment brings you the best possible results. This pioneering machine eradicates the discomfort yet retains all the benefits of traditional Carboxy Therapy, using carbon dioxide to stimulate skin renewal and send stretch marks into decline from the very first treatment. When it comes to the dreaded orange peel, the unbeatable trio of treatments includes Acoustic Wave Therapy to disperse fat deposits, Mesotherapy to trigger collagen growth and SPA RF radio-frequency to tighten and tone skin overall. Then let the 196 microneedles on the Pure Roller rev up your skin’s ability to replenish lost volume, counteract the causes of pigmentation and smooth wrinkles – just like a battery-powered boost for a better summer body. Which will leave you with only the finer points of beautification to take care of. Bikini or backless dress, sporting a back full of acne is something no

woman wants. Spare your blushes with EF MEDISPA’s MediLux machine of LED lights that clear bacteria, kill infection, reduce inflammation and minimise scarring – so you can put backne behind you for good. Smooth of skin and svelte of figure, the only final accessory you’ll need to flaunt your body is pins to die for. Mercifully pain-free and perfect for all skin types, the EF Superior Laser Hair Removal will provide the final flourish to your bespoke better body regimen. Body issues? What body issues?!

69 St John’s Wood High Street London NW8 7NL 020 7449 6925 29 Kensington Church Street London W8 4LL 020 7361 1005 193 Kings Road London SW3 5ED 020 7368 7674 Website: www.efmedispa.com Blog: www.esthersbeautyblog.co.uk Twitter: twitter.com/estherfieldgras YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/EFmedispa

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H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

W10 reformer 10 minutes with... TenPilates founder Joanne Mathews How did you first start practicing Pilates? I like to view it as a happy accident. Literally. I was driving home late one night in October 2005, when a car pulled out in front of me without warning. The accident left me signed off work for six months with a fractured coccyx, a twisted pelvis and whiplash, among other problems. Even though the other driver was never seen again, without her there would be no TenPilates. Without her I wouldn’t have found myself in a rehab gym, wouldn’t have met a personal trainer called David Higgins and wouldn’t have been introduced to what we now know as Dynamic Pilates, and David and I wouldn’t have set up TenPilates together. How did you go about starting your business with David Higgins? We knew that we wanted the business to be brand-led, people focused and expert. David is a highly qualified rehabilitation trainer who has trained in Dynamic Pilates in the States. His role was clear: he would head up and deliver the Dynamic Pilates classes

to clients and set up our training academy. I had never worked in the fitness sector – or run a business, but having been head of marketing and PR for Habitat, I had transferable skills. I could define our strategy, plan it, budget it, build teams and make things happen. Is Dynamic Pilates for everyone? Yes I fundamentally believe it is, for all age groups and levels of fitness. It’s something you can pick up and practice for life. Your skill, strength and fitness levels evolve over time and you are always challenged. We have everyone from models and athletes to fund managers, NHS workers and mums. Why was Notting Hill the perfect place for your first Ten Pilates studio? We opened our Notting Hill studio in August 2008. The area has a great vibe, and is typically open to something new. We also identified early on that it had a great mix of residents and businesses, which was important for us if we were to fill a studio throughout the day and not just at the morning and evening sessions. The clients, who tend

to be really busy with work or children, respond well to the flexibility of a boutique pay-as-you-go studio. How do you fit in exercise yourself? Starting up a business for me really impacted on my ability to fit exercise, or home life, into my day. Initially, my workouts were quite intermittent as I was working long hours. It’s only this year that I have been able to get back into a routine, I train at least three times a week, picking quiet classes or slots. Run us through a day in your life... 7am: Early start, pick up emails and plan my day. 9am: Breakfast with my partner, Justin, unless he is working at Ten (he is our creative director and is responsible for all our communications). 10am: Meetings dealing with finance, studio managers, marketing or PR. I have an open door policy so people can just drop in – these tend to be the most interesting and insightful meetings I have. I always send final emails before I head off home, usually by 8pm.

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Powervibe launches BodyVibe. The ultimate fitness package giving you the opportunity to exercise everyday at Powervibe for 28 days. Take part in any dynamic, semi private Power Plate or Spin Class everyday for only £285. The perfect way to kick start your 2012 body. Call us today on 020 7229 9614 or email appointments@powervibe.co.uk to find out more about this amazing new package. New Opening Times: Monday - Thursday 7am-2pm & 5pm-9pm Friday 7am-2pm | Saturday 9am-2pm | Sunday 9.30am-1.30pm 95A Westbourne Park Villas, London, W2 5ED | 020 7229 9614 | www.powervibe.co.uk *Subject to availability, terms & conditions apply.

a private and personal service Come along to Angy’s Nails & Beauty salon in the heart of Kensington to enjoy a range of professional beauty treatments.

Specialists in Latin American manicures and pedicures, Angy’s use Shellac, Biosculpture gel and Essie nail varnish for a beautiful flawless finish.

Angy’s provide a professional threading service for eyebrows or lips, tailored according to the shape of your face, for only £10.

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ABSOLUTELY P R O M OT I O N

DAILY SNIPPET A look at goings-on at award-winning salon Kell Skött Haircare, Golborne Road W10 and Lambton Place W11 Struggling to find time to get to the hairdressers? The Master Colour Expert award is the ultimate colour qualification, created to acknowledge the industry’s most eminent, talented and highly skilled colourists. There are only 20 salons in London with Master Colour Experts and two of these experts can be found at Notting Hill salons Kell Skött Haircare. Master Colour Experts Shyli and Bartholomew offer the highest level of technical expertise, creativity, colour correction, advice and personal colour consultations. Book in now for a complimentary consultation with one of Kell Skött Haircare’s awardwinning team. Call 020 7229 1671

Kell Skött Haircare in Lambton Place is open seven days a week, and until 9pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays. And you can make a booking 24/7, 365 days a year with their online bookings. kellskotthaircare.com/ bookings

Q A

My hair is always so frizzy, what can I do to try and control this? Frizz is a problem that so many people suffer with, but there is no need to suffer in silence. Serum is your secret weapon, it calms wayward strands and helps lock in moisture by sealing the hair shaft. Simply smooth a serum, such as Paul Yacomine’s Micro Treatment Oil, into wet hair prior to blow-drying, finish with more serum to smooth down any flyaways and keep you frizz free. Paul Yacomine products are available to purchase from Kell Skött Haircare salons in Notting Hill.

New Drink!

Ask Ruby!

For a more permanent solution, the new Permanent Blow Dry treatments not only reduce frizz and volume but dramatically improve the condition of the hair for up to four months. Look out for a formaldehyde free formula, such as NanoKeratin, available at Kell Skött Haircare salons. During May they are offering a fantastic 30% discount on all Permanent Blow Dry Services at their Golborne Road salon. Call 020 8964 3004 for an appointment (conditions apply).

www.kellskotthaircare.com

The New Mocchiato! The complimentary drinks menu at Kell Skött Haircare rivals some cafes and we absolutely love their newly invented Mocchiato. A blend of the finest hot chocolate and espresso, topped with warm froth. The best bit? All of their drinks are served with a homemade chocolate brownie. 83

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EllisStockwell

personal training

Voted London’s best body trainers - Harper’s Bazaar

Mr and Mrs Skött’s W11 diaries In which they consume too much Akavit and start making a film

n hour to spare before heading off to Daylesford for their March supper club so where better than E+O for a couple of lychee martinis? Another drink success was our Northern Gold cocktail (Absolutely’s cocktail of the month in December), which was such a triumph that Amathus came to film us making it and invited us to take part in an Akvavit master class. Now, Mr Skött was obviously brought up on the stuff and trotted happily off to work the next day, whereas Mrs Skött walked around in an akvavit haze for most of it. Perhaps this could have been something to do with the lethal cocktails consumed at the Riding House Cafe – what a restaurant, a great buzzing atmosphere, a brilliant bar and some really unusual, not to mention potent, cocktails. Working on a weekend has its pros (we take days off during the week) and cons. One thing we miss is that we don’t get to hang out at Sunday Bloody Sunday at Paradise by Way of Kensal Green. Just seeing the photos of the ‘do it yourself’ Bloody Marys make us want to be there. Perhaps we should start serving them in the salon. Mrs Skött did manage to make it out on a Saturday for a few hours when she headed to the Kensal Flea. I was a little worried that she was going to come back with a micropig that would turn out to be to cute for the rotisserie. This month, you may well spot us running around Portobello with a video camera, we are busy making a film for the Bikeminded competition, so we’ll see you on the red carpet at The Electric Cinema Portobello soon.

EllisStockwell offers bespoke personal training programmes designed to change your body shape,enhance your lifestyle and help you realise your fitness goals.

Lose my baby weight Lose a dress size Feel more energised What ever your goal is we will design an effective programme to make your aspirations a reality.

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PEOPLE

Diary of

Shakti Ananda Yoga teacher and light worker from Portobello

Shakti Ananda (38, real name Annabel) used to work in fashion PR. But after reading Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now, she had an ‘A-ha’ moment and gave it up. After completing her TTC at the Sivananda Centre in Madurai, she’s now a fully accredited yoga teacher. She’s also a Reiki Master and Light Worker. Her mission, aside from becoming enlightened in this lifetime, is to heal those around her and help humanity in its transition from fear to love. 7.03 Am woken by the sound of Lydia clomping about upstairs in her big boots again. So selfish. But when you vibrate at such a low level, thinking about other people just isn’t a priority. 7.07 Find a white feather on my pillow. That will be my Angel Guide Elisha reminding me to consult my ‘Healing with the Angels’ cards again. 7.09 Consult my ‘Healing with the Angels’ pack and draw the ‘Healing’ card. Amaaazing! 7.21 Fill 19 pages of my dream diary. Colin my Shaman is at the three-day International Shamanic Conference in Colliers Wood so I’m learning to interpret my own dreams. 8.32 Do some breathwork. Afterwards I decide to set up my own Breath Circle. Yeh!

2.00 Go back home to meditate on what I can learn from Jagadambai’s frankly rather immature behaviour. 4.06 Have a think about what sort of design I want for the poster advertising my Breath Circle. 5-6.30 Teach yoga at the gym. Nigel stops me in reception to say that from next week I will be moving to the smaller room since there are only four people attending my classes. Nigel is such an arsehole.

9.21 Make myself a beetroot and Udo oil shake. 9.37 Meditate on the ‘Healing’ card for two hours. Powerful stuff. 11-12.30 Teach at Beauty Works Best health club. As I leave, Jackie, the manageress tells me that Manipurna’s maternity leave is ending next month so she will be resuming to her classes, which I think is pretty inconsiderate and ungrateful of her (actually of them both). 1.31 Meet Jagadambai for a decaf soya latte chai in Coffee Plant. Give her back her Goa yoga pants which unfortunately still have a couple of small cigarette burns in them after the Tower Hamlets single mums yoga video fiasco. Jagadambai immediately spots a burn and totally overreacts. I tell her she needs to do a Hoffman Process eight-day intensive workshop to sort out her childhood anger issues.

6.50 Get home to find that Lydia has dumped a bag of empty Red Stripe cans outside my door. When I go up to confront her about it, she refuses to answer the door and just turns up the music. Lydia is creating some serious karma for herself. 7.45 Make myself a quinoa and alfalfa sprout salad. 8.30 Start on the designs for the Breath Circle poster. The centrepiece will be a photograph of me in the lotus position surrounded by white/golden light, holding a rose quartz crystal and/ or a Tibetan singing bowl. 9.00 Spend some time reconstructing this pose in my bedroom mirror. Decide that the Tibetan singing bowl looks better. 9.45 Go to bed. It’s been a challenging day but I’ve learnt a lot. Send forgiveness and light to Lydia, Nigel, Jagadambai, Jackie, Manipurna and that little man from the newsagents, who short-changed me yet again last week.

Follow Shakti on Twitter @lightofshakti 85

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H E A LT H & B E A U T Y

Mind, body and soul There are not many boutique gyms in which you can work up a sweat just as comfortably as you can seal a high-profile business deal. Body Works West is one, finds Absolutely

ucked away in a quiet mews off Westbourne Grove, private members gym and all-round oasis of calm, Body Works West, offers locals a place in which to escape quotidien life, socialise with friends and unwind and relax the mind. I last visited BWW for an Aquafit class, held daily in their heated Grecian-style pool. The 18 metre long waterway sits in a resplendent room complete with its own mural on the marbled walls, and this is by no means the only luxury afforded to members of this most glorious establishment. Body Works West also houses elegant treatment rooms; a Eucalyptus fi lled steam room, sauna and jacuzzi; an intimate pilates reformer studio; a technogym and a spinning room essentially it’s a haven for all those who want to maintain a certain level of style, even when breaking a sweat. The attention to detail at BWW is what draws many clients in, there is an intimate lounge and coffee area to meet work-out buddies in or even clients and colleagues. It also has internet access, just in case you need to check your emails before you hand yourself over to an intense workout. The history of the building provides another quite fascinating story,

revealing that this spot has been connected with sports for decades. The land on which Body Works West stands was once a convent school complete with gymnasium and then a Squash club. In 1896 the Sisters of Sion founded a convent school in Chepstow Villas W11; 73 years later the then reverend mother decided to sell the now aging gymnasium so she could build a more modern one that was properly connected to the school. Local surveyor Colin White bought the gymnasium, transforming it into Lambton Squash Club which grew to become incredibly popular and even hosted the British National Squash Championships. In keeping with its rich sporting history the gym offers a variety of different options, from yoga classes and Muay Thai to personal training sessions and stability ball fitness. There are also a few unexpected classes for those who feel they’ve seen it all before (why not try a fire meditation class?). Body Works West is not just a gym, it’s a place to escape the world, allowing you to focus solely on yourself in a relaxed and beautiful environment. 11 Lambton Place, W11 2SH enquires@bodyworkswest.co.uk 020 7229 2291

IT’S A HAVEN FOR ALL THOSE WHO WANT TO MAINTAIN A CERTAIN LEVEL OF STYLE, EVEN WHEN BREAKING A SWEAT

SPOTTED AT BODYWORKSWEST Many a famous face has been sighted in this luxury boutique gym. We wouldn’t mind hopping on a treadmill next to Brian Eno, Jason Donovan, Karma’s mayoral candidate Tobias Moss, Mariella Frostrup, Richard Curtis or Elle Macpherson.

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ABSOLUTELY P R O M OT I O N

ON PRESCRIPTION D.R. Evans on Elgin Crescent is more than just a pharmacy. Absolutely ventures downstairs at the long established chemist shop. THE DERMALOGICA FACIAL At D.R.Evans Health and Beauty Clinic the facial begins with a 15 minute “face mapping” consultation, which will assess your skin and its condition to better target its needs. Each skin zone will have its own requirements, Sherene and her alarmingly bright light will determine your needs and prescribe you with your own bespoke Dermalogica skin treatment. Your customised facial will include a double cleanse, exfoliation, steam, thorough extraction, and moisturising mask combined with a relaxing head and shoulder massage. An alternative to the full facial is the Microzone flash exfoliation 20 minute high impact treatment which will help to resurface and brighten the skin – perfect for an effective lunch time treat.

his vibrant corner of Elgin Crescent has been home to D.R. Evans Pharmacy for 140 years. The present owner and pharmacist, Chris Soteriou, has served the local community since 1989. His friendly nature and professionalism have made him the first port of call for local people with any kind of ailment. To support his advice and customer medical needs there is the usual array of over the counter medicines, as well as products which support a more natural and holistic approach to medicine. This pharmacist also believes that his local shop should provide the people of W11 with a range of high end beauty products, so you will find the entire ranges of French beauty brands such as Clarins, Caudalie, Avene , as well as Dermalogica, Dr Hauschka, and cult local brand La Crème de la Crème. The invitingly bright and spacious, recently refurbished treatment rooms are home to D.R.Evans Health and Beauty Clinic. Its two treatment rooms offer a wide range of therapies and services, presented in a simple, but friendly and professional manner, in keeping with the pharmacy ethos. Beauty therapies include O.P.I. manicures and pedicures, Lycon waxing and relaxing massages with a strong focus on the Dermalogica range of customised facials, which, thanks to highly professional therapist Sherene, are effective, enjoyable and results driven. Chris goes a step further with this Pharmacy offering services which include

vaccines, cholesterol testing and diabetes screening. There is also a private GP service and Wellness Clinic available, by appointment, on Saturdays. The newly established Private Cosmetic Medicine Clinic is supported by Dr Kersh and extends into other areas of cosmetic treatments. Dr Kersh is known for her holistic approach to both beauty and health and uses her expert approach in her natural non-surgical facelifts, non-surgical nose correction, body fat, and cellulite treatments. Some of the treatments available within the Clinic include skin rejuvenation, anti-wrinkle, dermal fi llers, Mesotherapy, Micro-needling, to name but a few, but only after thorough and lengthy consultation. A free consultation is available to all who are considering any kind of procedure, with a reassurance from Dr Kersh that any treatment carried out will have a subtle result that will give a fresh, rejuvenated appearance. Who do you trust more than your pharmacist? If you want to look your best, D.R.Evans Pharmacy and the highly professional team offer a one-stop-shop, right on your doorstep. Drop off your prescription, stay for a skin consultation, or relax with a beauty treatment, the options are there, the choice is all yours. D.R.Evans Beauty Therapy, 15 Elgin Crescent, W11 2JA 020 7727 6882

SKIN REJUVENATION: Dr Kersh uses a combination of mesotherapy (vitamins and minerals) and hyaluronic acid based therapy, individually tailored to each clients’ needs to nurture the skin and re-establish hydrobalance.SMILE: Another popular service at the Clinic is teeth whitening, thanks to a specialist who visits regularly. Next dates: Thursday 17th May, Saturday 2nd June. 87

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ABSOLUTELY P R O M OT I O N

SCULPT YOUR BODY SLIM IN SIX WEEKS Louise Parker and her dedicated team are ready to bust your body into shape for spring

HE INTENSIVE PERSONAL TRAINING PROGRAMME was devised by celebrity trainer Louise Parker over 12 years ago and has since changed the body shape of hundreds of individuals. Her experience ranges from helping clients recover from long-term obesity, to taking care of some of the most beautiful bodies in the world. The unique programme combines six hours a week of her exercise method, alongside a rigorous dietary overhaul, for a six-week period. “Each week we train you in four 90-minute sessions in the comfort of your own home – bringing the gym to you and saving precious time,” says Louise. “Some clients choose to do three 90-minute sessions over an eightweek period and the results are still exceptional.” The Intensive employs exercise and diet methods that radically shift body fat and totally re-sculpt the body, without compromising metabolism. “It’s so important to teach our clients how to boost their metabolism so that once they have lost the weight they can easily keep it off,” she notes. “So many diets will get the weight off but your metabolism will come to a grinding halt or they are just not sustainable.” The programme’s emphasis on resistance work and an intelligent eating plan ensure the results that clients achieve are long lasting and, most of all, easy to

maintain. “No aspect of what we do is extreme,” she explains. “Every element of the plan is sensible, researched and proven to work. But what we do is put it all together to create massive transformations in our clients’ bodies and lifestyles. “My team are world class and without doubt some of the best in the country. Most come from a Sports Science background and we have two Olympic athletes amongst us. We all share a friendly, no-nonsense approach and between us we offer an unrivalled service to our clients. I’m hugely proud

understand the challenges new mothers are faced with, and what has to be done to return you to your former glory.” Louise Parker designs each programme with one of her team before the programme commences, based on the individual’s requirements and deadlines. A rigid, yet balanced food plan is devised, ensuring optimal results. Louise personally monitors your diet diary on a daily basis to ensure you are on the right track and that you get all the support and motivation you need to succeed. In six weeks, you will emerge looking better than you thought you ever could. What Louise Parker does isn’t gimmicky, it is instead an intelligent combination of three factors – nutrition, training and lifestyle – delivered in just the right combination. “Providing you have made the decision to change and are willing to let us guide you,” she asserts, “You simply cannot fail – clients routinely drop two dress sizes on the Intensive.” There are many bespoke programmes available, and following a telephone consultation, Louise will advise a suitable programme and schedule to suit any objective, lifestyle and budget. Louise asks that new clients commit to a minimum of three hours per week to ensure that they achieve amazing results.

YOU SIMPLY CANNOT FAIL CLIENTS ROUTINELY DROP TWO DRESS SIZES ON THE INTENSIVE to have such a talented and committed team behind me.” Louise Parker believes anyone can have a fantastic body – regardless of age, body type and starting point: “By following my method, you really will be blown away by how you can change your body shape, overall fitness and exceed your own expectations.” Her programme is suitable for anyone wanting exceptional results, in record time. The Intensive is hugely popular with clients needing to be what she calls ‘red-carpet ready’ – whether that’s for a wedding, new job-role or even the school run. “I love helping post-natal mums,” she explains. “Since I had my daughters in quick succession, I fully

Louise Parker Personal Training, 2 Eaton Gate, SW1W 9BJ 0800 084 2828 info@louiseparkerpersonaltraining.com 89

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Sun-kissed

FITNESS Rejuvenating the mind,body and spirit in Tulum, Mexico By Helen Baron

’d made good on my New Year fitness resolutions. Gone were the comfort foods but I still needed to step things up a gear. When a once-in-a-lifetime two-month trip to Los Angeles was confirmed, I saw it as the opportunity I needed to get seriously in shape. One tight, toned Hollywood body coming up... right? Not quite. Without the $1,000-a-session personal trainer, the yoga and running were not enough to get me where I wanted to be. My much hoped-for ‘hot bod’ remained decidedly un-Hollywood. So I did what a lot of women across the pond do when they want to turn up the heat: I went to Bikini Bootcamp.

Amansala Amansala Bikini Bootcamp is based in Tulum, on Mexico’s tourist-friendly

Yucatan peninsula. Tulum has some of the best-preserved beaches in the territory but is not without its modern luxuries so is a great base from which to explore what’s become known as the Mayan Riviera. A magnet for bohemians and fitness fanatics alike, there is no shortage of yoga holidays on this stretch of paradise. Eco-tourism is of paramount concern to the locals – intent as they are on conserving natural ecosystems and keeping the waters crystal clear – and resort sizes are therefore limited. “It’s not the Four Seasons,” warns Bikini Bootcamp founder and owner Melissa Perlman on my first day. But then, who wants that? This trip is about the experience, about ridding myself of the pollution of everyday life in the big bad city. The word Amansala is a conjunction

of two Sanskrit words meaning ‘peace’ and ‘water’. The small resort’s rooms are right on the beach, with the ocean at your doorstep and the riches of nature spread all around. From the moment I arrive, I can’t wait to get started.

The Grind Days start at 7am with a brisk walk or run along the beach (the hotel’s three affectionate Labrador retrievers lolloping alongside). A 15 minute ‘body blast’ is followed by a morning excursion or fitness class. After lunch, the afternoon sees you back on the beach – many bootcampers use this time to indulge in a daily massage. We then squeeze in another exercise class at 4pm and a restorative yoga class before dinner. The schedule and mix of activities strikes a brilliant balance between

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T R AV E L

IT’S NOT ABOUT VANITY OR EXPECTATION, IT’S ABOUT BEING BODY-AWARE The workouts themselves are a lot of fun. From African Grooves classes to Zumba and circuit training, the instructors are brimming with energy – personal trainer Kiya Knight is a particular marvel, with energy levels that seem to know no bounds. Kiya specialises in exercises that focus on natural movement and use body-weight as resistance. There’s not a single ounce of fat on her and her motivation is infectious – it’s not about vanity or expectation, it’s about being body-aware. And it’s not just me who’s feeling it: I’m impressed with the dedication of the other women in my group. Attendance is high for all classes, everyone sticks to the diet (I think it was just me that snuck off for ice-cream on the fourth day) and no one – but no one – swallows a drop of alcohol before the celebratory drink on our final night. physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation. I know I said I wanted a Hollywood body, but I also know how futile it is to punish yourself beyond all enjoyment: you only end up quivering beneath the bed covers as another crackof-dawn alarm call summons you back to a training regime you’ve come to dread. Fortunately, at Amansala the morning gong is a warm welcome to a positive day. The three daily meals, though simple, are nutritious, fuelling and healing our assorted bodies without pumping them full of nasties. Everything served is low in fat – the ‘desserts’ (one night we are treated to apple flan; on another, a healthier variant of banoffee pie) may be comically minuscule but they’re made all the more gratifying for the sense of shared achievement and camaraderie they help to foster.

The Girls The ultimate key to Bikini Bootcamp’s success is the people. Although the camp welcomes men, it’s obviously more popular with women and, my week is completely female-dominated. My camp buddies are an inspiring bunch of interesting women who have come in search of some much-needed downtime. Two best friends from Texas are here for a girly break where they ‘don’t drink so much we need a holiday from holiday’, while a mechanical engineer is looking for a chance to decompress from a hectic work schedule and the acrimonious end of a relationship. All of the girls are utterly welcoming and as a bit of a tomboy, I’m reminded what great fun women’s company is. I’m left to wonder if this is the spiritual power of our beautiful

setting, the nurturing effects of yoga or the fact of everyone having left the quotidian social politics of their home lives at the door. It’s probably a little of all three.

The Result This is the hardest I’ve ever worked in a week – a real benchmark. I’ve made a valiant dent in the bingo wings and I’ll be damned if I let them sneak up on me again. At a ‘closing circle’ to mark the end of our collective adventure, everyone says a few words and a few tears are shed. Even now, two months later, a travelling sisterhood bracelet (a gift from owner Melissa to one of the girls who had remarked how much she liked it) is doing the rounds, making its way to me back in Blighty. It was a blast - from flinging coconuts on the beach and cycling alongside luscious jungles to watching the hotel’s dogs play gleefully in the surf and swimming in a clear-water cenote. In fact, the girls and I plunged into the cenote, no doubt surprising the man who had been enjoying a peaceful, solitary float, circling him like vultures, asking everything short of his address. He took it gracefully. And it’s that sense of easy-going intimacy that makes Bikini Bootcamp seem like something much more special than simply getting fit in the sun: all kinds of people from all kinds of places, forgetting their everyday worries and simply diving right in, together. A private room for 6-day Bikini Bootcamp will cost $3,799 which includes two massages, plus the group Mayan clay ritual. 91

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PEOPLE

Gate keepers It’s not always about the newcomers. Levi Breden catches up with three of Notting Hill Gate’s longterm stalwarts: Video City, De Winter and Four Seasons The lowdown

High and lows

VIDEO CITY has been in Notting Hill Gate for over 30 years, stocking all the best films, from new releases to a cult back catalogue of obscure releases and staffed exclusively by film buffs. It’s probably London’s best dvd store (the name dates back to the old days of VHS). 117 Notting Hill Gate W11 www.videocitylondon.wordpress.com DE WINTER is a family business that began in 1925 and moved to Kensington Church Street in 1947, selling fabrics, soft furnishings and accessories. 223 Kensington Church Street W8 http://dewinter.web.officelive.com FOUR SEASONS opened in Notting Hill Gate in 1987, but has roots in the sheepskin and shoemaking towns of Glastonbury and Street, where the first Four Seasons stores opened in the 1970s, selling sheepskin slippers and coats. 125 Notting Hill Gate W11

VIDEO CITY: Highs were when Video City was nominated for The Great Little Shop awards and when we finally moved into the 21st century earlier this year with our website. A low point was when it dawned on us that the sale of the infamous blue door from Notting Hill was not going to reduce the number of tourists asking after its location. DE WINTER: The best times are when casual passers-by pop in for a reel of thread or some hooks and then, having discovered our friendly and helpful business, suddenly become clients with an entire houses or flats to be furnished. We always seem to be busy. FOUR SEASONS: During a very wet Glastonbury Festival, Malcolm’s entrepreneurial, innovative spirit came into play as he kitted out festival-goers with wellingtons. After that we were the first shop in the area to stock a rainbow of Hunter wellingtons, from green to black

and pink to blue. For 50 years, Malcolm has been touring the world, exploring markets, souks and bazaars in his search for fine leather and other exotic products to bring back to Four Seasons.

Most memorable customers VIDEO CITY: We have had a vast array of memorable customers over the years and presumably the reason they continue to come back is probably as a result of us never giving away who they are despite being asked on numerous occasions. DE WINTER: We have had clients from the late Princess Alice, Lord Snowden Richard Branson, Larry Hagman, Harold Pinter, Lady Antonia Fraser and many film and theatre actors. FOUR SEASONS: Princess Katarina of Yugoslavia featured in the 1987 Notting Hill store launch adverts wearing the traditionally fashionable sheepskin coats that are still available and popular today.

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ABSOLUTELY 1234 ProPerty

ADDISON CRESCENT W14 A fine low built house meticulously restored to the highest specification. the property offers an impressive wide frontage incorporating gated off street parking and an excellent landscaped garden to the rear. Approx. 6,329 sq ft, the house comprises seven bedrooms, four reception rooms, six bathrooms, garden, private parking and a lift.

Guide Price ÂŁ12,500,000 ABSO NH MAY.indb 93

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Why would most estate agents make lousy tailors? Because they’re not bespoke. Nor pretend to be. They’re too big. Too busy. They don’t have personal service sewn into the very lining of their company. At Crayson, when it comes to tailoring the perfect property – or price from the perfect buyer – to fit a client’s precise requirements, nothing can match our highly personal, bespoke service. With the tiniest of details taken care of. Never a stitch missed.

hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

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Specialists in Selling

27/04/2012 18:01

Chepstow Crescent, otting Hill W11 This elegant e bedroom house is a prime e ample of why its location is one of otting Hill s most desirable and sought-after areas to li e in This spacious, completely rebuilt and architecturally designed town house discreetly tucked between its neighbours is the epitome of classic, understated style.

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Three reception rooms & kitchen / breakfast room Master bedroom, bathroom & dressing room Four further bedrooms Bathroom, two shower rooms & laundry room Cinema / media room Garden & off-street parking Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 3,003 sq ft / 279 sq m Guide Price ÂŁ7.75 million Freehold

Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH

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Specialists in Selling

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Blenheim Crescent, otting ill 11 On Blenheim Crescent although not the Palace, but still t for a King & ueen bright and quirky to n house in one of the prettiest of otting ill s crescents. This home has been carefully updated in part ith all of today s mod-cons but also has a delightful Boho feel that is hard not to love.

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Double reception room, second reception & dining room Kitchen / breakfast room Four bedrooms & three bathrooms Garden Off-street parking The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 2,486 sq ft / 231 sq m Guide Price ÂŁ3.5 million Freehold

Joint Sole Agents Crayson 020 7221 1117 hello@crayson.com Bective Leslie Marsh 020 7221 0330

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Specialists in Selling

27/04/2012 18:02

Knowledge begins with experience. Know-how ends with results.

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We’re no beginners. With over 150 years experience, our professional negotiators – unequalled in the business – know how to get the result you want. March into any of our offices and you get an army of London’s best negotiators hunting down the best price on your behalf. Carefully recruited, career agents – many living in the area they work, so they know it inside out. And the selling process too. This way they can negotiate even harder whatever the value of your property. The result, you end up with the best price and a great experience to match.

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St James’s Gardens W11 £6,500,000 An elegant, mid terrace house, with fantastic views over the glorious garden square, enjoying fantastic, light aspects. The accommodation is arranged over five floors and is currently configured to provide an independent lower ground floor apartment. The main house provides magnificent reception space including a stunning first floor drawing room. Bedroom accomodation includes a grand master bedroom with en suite bathroom that occupies the entire second floor, three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom. Freehold. Sole Agents.

HOLLAND PARK: 020 7605 6890 sales.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

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

Chepstow Villas W11 £4,750,000 Set back from the road, this magnificent, stucco fronted Victorian property provides elegant reception space on the raised ground and first ﬂoors. The generous bedroom accommodation includes a huge master suite, three additional bedrooms and a family bathroom. The lower ﬂoor has been configured to provide a one bedroom apartment that can operate independently from the main family accommodation. Benefits include access to Ladbroke Square Gardens. Freehold. Sole Agents.

NOTTING HILL: 020 7313 2890 sales.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Balham

Chelsea

Hammersmith

Mayfair

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North Kensington

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Fulham

Little Venice

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Holland Park W11 ÂŁ3,450,000 Having been subject to a comprehensive refurbishment programme this superb property now provides beautiful accommodation finished to an exacting standard. The grand interconnecting reception rooms enjoy bright aspects while the bedroom accommodation includes a fabulous master suite, a guest suite and a further bedroom served by a beautifully fitted shower room. Located moments from the fantastic local amenities of Holland Park Avenue and Notting Hill. Share of Freehold. Joint Sole Agents.

HOLLAND PARK: 020 7605 6890 sales.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Our negotiators are unequalled in the business: Our highly experienced sales teams will not only get you the best price, they’ll also make the process of selling your property a pleasure, not a chore.

SALES

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

We only employ the best in town. Every one of our employees is met by a director before they are offered the job to ensure they have the right experience and attitude to work here. And some stay for 27 years!

Our negotiators have perfected exactly the right balance in their approach, so you enjoy the experience and get the results you want.

A happy seller recently told us about their Marsh & Parsons sales manager:

Abbotsbury Close W14 £2,950,000 Having been comprehensively reconfigured this beautifully presented house now offers a large open plan ground ﬂoor incorporating a kitchen/dining area that leads straight out to a mature walled garden, a reception room, a large master suite and three further bedrooms served by a family bathroom. Freehold. Sole Agents.

“In explaining his approach and sales strategy, he reassured me greatly. He was intelligent, courteous, diplomatic and well informed about market trends – he inspired great confidence. Very soon the house was under offer at a price that more than matched my expectations."

HOLLAND PARK: 020 7605 6890 sales.hol@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Balham

Chelsea

Hammersmith

Mayfair

Barnes

Clapham

Holland Park

North Kensington

Battersea

Earls court

Kensington

Notting Hill

Brook Green

Fulham

Little Venice

Pimlico

Lexham Gardens W8 £1,425,000 A superbly refurbished first floor apartment with balcony situated in a beautiful south facing period building in the heart of Kensington. This amazing property is flooded with natural light and offers excellent living/entertaining space throughout including a large reception room, two double bedrooms and two bathrooms. Lexham Gardens is a popular address within the Royal Borough and is well located for the extensive amenities of both Gloucester Road and High Street Kensington. Share of Freehold. Sole Agents.

KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

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

Kensington Gardens Square W2 £1,050,000 Tucked away on a sought after garden square this fabulous garden apartment boasts a fantastic open plan reception room with a south/westerly aspect, a smartly designed eat-in kitchen leading out to a decked patio area, a master bedroom with en suite bathroom, two additional bedrooms, including one double and a second bathroom. Leasehold. Sole Agents. KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 sales.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

Bassett House W10 £985,000 This beautiful property occupies the entire raised ground ﬂoor of an imposing corner building and boasts a private south westerly garden. Highlights include a stunning reception room with high ceilings and an open plan kitchen, a luxurious master bedroom with en suite bathroom. Further accommodation comprises a second double bedroom and bathroom. Share of Freehold. Sole Agents. NORTH KENSINGTON: 020 7313 8350 sales.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Local know-how. Better results. Balham

Chelsea

Hammersmith

Mayfair

Barnes

Clapham

Holland Park

North Kensington

Battersea

Earls court

Kensington

Notting Hill

Brook Green

Fulham

Little Venice

Pimlico

Our lettings team have recently been awarded: National Lettings Agency of the Year at the prestigious Negotiator Awards in 2011.

We’re with you every step of the way... Unlike some agents, we are ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) registered, trained and qualified. So we are experienced at advising landlords through the legislative minefield.

Our aim is to complete each deal through to exchange within just...

72 hours minimising the chances of the transaction falling through.

The Negotiator Awards judges were particularly impressed by our...

Hereford Road W2 £2,800 per week “...commitment to growing our 'managed' portfolio which now accounts for approximately 30% of our overall lettings business."

This stunning and recently refurbished house is located on a quiet tree lined street in the heart of Notting Hill, just moments away from Westbourne Grove. The property includes a large reception room, a separate, fully fitted kitchen with large dining area, five double bedrooms and three modern bathrooms (one of which is en suite).

NOTTING HILL: 020 7313 2890 lets.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

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

LETTINGS

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

Elgin Crescent W11 £1,550 per week This beautiful apartment occupies the top two ﬂoors of a period building in Notting Hill. The accommodation on the first level comprises a kitchen leading to a bright, south facing dining area, a study, a bathroom and two guest bedrooms. The top ﬂoor offers a stunning main reception area and the master suite, which boasts a vast bedroom with wonderful storage and a modern bathroom. NOTTING HILL: 020 7313 2890 lets.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

Lexham Gardens W8 £600 per week This beautiful, interior designed period conversion boasts a large private garden and offers a large bright open plan reception with a fully integrated conservatory style kitchen leading to the large private garden. Further accommodation comprises a double bedroom, a modern en suite bathroom, separate guest bathroom and a study. KENSINGTON: 020 7368 4450 lets.kns@marshandparsons.co.uk

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HERITAGE...

THE KEY TO A POSITIVE FUTURE

ABSO NH MAY.indb 110

Gareth Jones Partner & Head of Residential Sales

Anna Greenwood Senior Residential Sales Negotiator

Coralie Moore Senior Residential Sales Negotiator

gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

anna.greenwood@carterjonas.co.uk

coralie.moore@carterjonas.co.uk

27/04/2012 15:04

With roots that go back more than two centuries, our heritage means a great deal to us. But it’s the future that counts. That’s what makes us one of the strongest names in the property business; doing what’s best for our clients and making sure the vast range of advice we offer enhances their future prosperity.

Thank you so much for your hard work in showing me numerous places. I will have no hesitation in recommending you to others as you were very, very diligent and most impressive Mrs G

Thank you so much for your prompt and kind assistance, especially as you really did listen and I was so impressed that you sent details of properties that I really did like. Mrs C

Your hard work and approach are very much appreciated and a stand out versus your industry peers. Mr F

Under not that straightforward circumstances you were extremely good and we would not hesitate in recommending you in the future. Mrs L

Thanks again for an awesome job. I appreciate it. You will always get preferential treatment from me and recommendations to all our friends and colleagues! Mrs V

Excellent! Five star service on every level, could not be bettered. Mrs A

Whether selling, letting or buying, there’s never been a better time to call us on 020 3018 2309 or find us online at CARTERJONAS.CO.UK/HOLLANDPARK hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk | 8 Addison Avenue, Holland Park, London W11 4QR

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offices throughout the Uk including 5 in london

carterjonas.co.uk

Holland Park

Queensdale Road W11 A wide end of terrace house which is within easy walking distance of the many amenities and transport links of Holland Park Avenue. Reception room • Family/media room • Kitchen Dining room • 4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • Roof terrace Conservatory • Private parking • Garage (held on separate lease of approximately 93 years) • Approximately 2,745sq ft

Guide price £2,950,000 Freehold

Holland Park & notting Hill 020 7371 1111 hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

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Hyde Park

Monmouth Road W2 Enjoying a prime location amongst the charming pavement cafes of Westbourne Grove, this contemporary living space offers the ultimate in Notting Hill living. Reception room • Kitchen • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms Patio • Approximately 1,652sq ft

Guide price £1,075,000 Leasehold

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7402 1552 hydepark@carterjonas.co.uk

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offices throughout the Uk including 5 in london

carterjonas.co.uk

Holland Park

Boyne Terrace Mews W11 A recently refurbished family house tucked away in this quiet mews in the heart of Holland Park. The property has been refurbished to an extremely high standard. Reception room • Kitchen/dining room • Master bedroom suite with walk-in wardrobe • 3 further bedrooms • Family bathroom • Utility room • Paved garden • Garage

£1,995 per week Unfurnished

Holland Park & notting Hill 020 7371 3377 hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

nortH kensington

Oxford Gardens W10 A contemporary style period family house set over two floors and located on this pretty residential street in North Kensington. The property benefits from wooden floors and high ceilings throughout. Double reception room • Eat-in kitchen • 3 double bedrooms • Bathroom • Utility room/cloakroom • Private garden

£795 per week Unfurnished

Holland Park & notting Hill 020 7371 3377 hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

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Bayswater

Cleveland Square W2 A modern flat situated on the lower ground floor of this period building. The property has been finished to a high standard and is located just moments from the green spaces of Hyde Park. Reception room • Kitchen • 2 bedrooms • Bathroom Terrace • Access to communal gardens

£695 per week Furnished/Unfurnished

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7402 1552 hydepark@carterjonas.co.uk

Hyde Park

Hyde Park Square W2 A bright modern and south facing flat located in a Grade II listed building with views over Hyde Park Square gardens. This apartment benefits from wooden floors, high ceilings and good transport links. Reception room • Kitchen • 2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms Lift • Access to communal gardens

£995 per week Furnished

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7402 1552 hydepark@carterjonas.co.uk

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PASSION...

THE KEY TO A REWARDING RELATIONSHIP We make no bones about it – property is our passion. And we recognise the same passion in the needs and desires of our clients. More often than not, they know exactly what they want from a property advisor, and we make sure they get it. Whether selling, letting or buying, we’d love to help. Call us on 020 3018 2309 or find us online at CARTERJONAS.CO.UK/KEY

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Property

Prime Purchase This elegant house in Chepstow Crescent has been entirely rebuilt behind the original facade to create an impressive five bedroom home What This spacious, completely rebuilt and architecturally designed townhouse is the epitome of classic, understated style.

Rebuilt in its entirety, aside from the facade, and completed only one year ago, this five bedroom, three reception room property offers everything you

could wish for in a house with such a high degree of finish.

Why There’s space for entertaining – on a grand scale, in a style that’s welcoming and comfortable. The ceiling heights and various skylights throughout the whole building give an immense feeling of freedom and light. Planned with meticulous attention to detail and with great style and flare, the house effortlessly combines functionality with design and tradition with cutting edge technical specifications.

Details Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 3,003 sq ft / 279 sq m. Guide Price £7.75 million Freehold

Contact Crayson 020 7221 1117 crayson.com

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PRincEs MEWs, W2 Freehold ÂŁ3,250,000

The most fantastic contemporary mews house located close to Kensington Gardens. An exciting bespoke design by Paper Project Architecture and Design, completed in 2012. The property has been completely rebuilt with the addition of two extra layers to incorporate a basement kitchen and a top floor master bedroom suite. To introduce maximum natural light throughout, in particular the basement, large glass skylights in the roof have been installed over a glass cantilevered staircase allowing the light to fall through the house from top to bottom.

17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU

Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: drinks at The Hempel, Craven Hill Gardens

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soUthWicK PLacE, W2 Freehold ÂŁ5,999,000

A handsome freehold property situated within close proximity to Hyde Park and Lancaster Gate. The house has been comprehensively refurbished throughout and is presented in excellent order. It offers grand proportions, superb width and impressive volume. Measuring over 400 square metres it is arranged over four floors only, providing excellent reception space for formal entertaining and family living. Upstairs the property has four good sized bedroom suites, including a spectacular master bedroom. Elsewhere the house has a staff bedroom suite, roof terrace and a patio garden.

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DEnyER stREEt, sW3 Leasehold ÂŁ3,950,000

A truly spectacular maisonette with the most imaginative interior design. Comprising over 2000 square feet of luxurious living space, it is arranged over the first and second floors of a corner building, with a triple aspect and a private roof terrace. Inside it is a masterpiece of playful interior design; arresting, eyecatching and sophisticated. This property is perfectly suited to a young person with an imaginative sense of style and fun, with a desire to be in Central Chelsea

17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU

Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: inspiring design at The Conran Shop, Fulham Road

ABSO NHNOVA11.indd MAY.indb 120 DOMUS 28-29

27/04/2012 15:05

PoRtobELLo RoaD, W11 Leasehold ÂŁ1,295,000

A super cool maisonette located on the world famous Portobello Road. Presented in a shabby chic style, the property comes with wood floors throughout and lots of period character. A private street entrance gives it an independent house within a house feel, whilst inside there is a large open plan kitchen / living space. To the rear there are double doors leading to a large decked roof terrace. Upstairs, there are two double bedroom suites. This is a great opportunity to live in style on the Portobello Road, one of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exciting streets.

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ELgin cREscEnt, W11 ÂŁ1,550 per week

An exceptional architect-designed maisonette in the heart of Notting Hill.

Immaculately presented throughout, the property comprises a top floor loft-style reception area with a unique atrium design boasting impressive volume and space. There is a very vivid and contemporary kitchen set on the third floor, which is adjoining to a large dining space. Three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study make up the rest of this very stylish home.

17 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2EU

Email: info@domusnova.com Tel: 0207 727 1717 Fax: 0207 727 2030 Web: www.domusnova.com Domus loves: brunch at the Electric Brasserie, Portobello Road

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PoRtobELLo RoaD, W11

ÂŁ1,500 per week

A newly-refurbished, interior designed apartment providing enviable living space within an exclusive gated development just off the famous Portobello Road. The two bedroom, two bathroom property provides a tranquil living environment within the security and calmness of the development. Immaculately presented, it comprises a large, contemporary reception space with wide wood floors and French doors leading to a beautiful terrace. The open-plan space houses a sleek, minimalistic Bulthaup kitchen and dining area. The development comes with a porter, high security and underground parking.

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Absolutely

PRIME

On the market in London’s best postcodes

Cleveland GARDENS, W2 £675 PER WEEK LIGHT AND AIRY This beautifully refurbished apartment on a quiet leafy street with a large communal garden comprises light and airy accommodation. There’s a reception with high ceilings and original sash windows; a dining area and an open plan kitchen with integrated appliances while two well-sized bedrooms both have en-suite bathrooms. There is a further single room/study and guest cloakroom. Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings 020 7402 9866

124

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ProPerty Cleveland SQUaRe, W2, £6,500,000

POTTeRY lane, W11 £1,000 PeR WeeK

DOUBLE RECEPTION ROOM WITH FANTASTIC ENTERTAINING SPACE

MOMENTS FROM HOLLAND PARK

An interior designed maisonette on this sought after garden square bordering Hyde Park. Unique features of this stunning apartment include a private entrance, grand entrance hallway, a swimming pool, gymnasium/games room plus maids quarters. With high ceilings throughout, a fantastic double reception room also offers fantastic entertaining space. Additional features include a fully fitted bespoke kitchen, luxurious master bedroom with dressing area and ensuite shower room, two further bedrooms (both en-suite) plus a guest cloakroom. Hamptons 020 7723 0023

Contemporary town house in one of the beautiful lanes of Holland Park. the open spaces of the park plus the tube station (Central line), delightful delis, restaurants and shops of the area are all on your doorstep. Approx. 1,109 sq ft. Homesite 020 7243 3535

KenSInGTOn GaTe & QUeenS GaTe MeWS, W8, £9,000,000 STAFF QUARTERS Situated in a prime residential square in the heart of Kensington lies this beautiful family home of some 3,430 sq.ft (318 sq.m). the well-presented house has direct access to a mews house offering the potential for separate staff accommodation or office space. the mews house itself occupies approximately 1360 sq.ft (126sq.m) bringing the total size of the property including the mews house to approximately 4,790 sq.ft (318 sq.m). this wonderful Grade II stucco fronted family home is located close to Hyde Park just off the northern end of Gloucester road which has a good selection of local shops and restaurants. Knight Frank 020 7938 4311 125

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

Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales

020 020 020 020 020 020

7225 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

3866 7100 3666 9959 1111 1010

Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings

020 020 020 020 020 020

7589 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

9966 7100 3866 9959 1111 1010

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

020 020 020 020 020

7600 7318 7629 7318 7052

3456 5039 7282 5198 9417

struttandparker.com

Portland Road 1,877 sq ft (174.4 sq m)

| Notting Hill | W11

An outstanding four bedroom house in a private gated courtyard, with off-street parking and a west-facing terrace.

Drawing room

Asking price ÂŁ2,185,000 Freehold

Notting Hill Sales 020 7221 1111

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

27/04/2012 15:06

Kensington Park Road 2,582 sq ft (234.85 sq m)

| Notting Hill | W11

A wonderful and rarely found, laterally four bedroom flat, on the second and third floors of this handsome period building.

Drawing room

Asking price ÂŁ3,600,000 Share of Freehold

Notting Hill Sales 020 7221 1111

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

18/04/2012 15:06 14:41 27/04/2012

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

Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales Sales

020 020 020 020 020 020

7225 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

3866 7100 3666 9959 1111 1010

Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings Lettings

020 020 020 020 020 020

7589 7731 7938 7235 7221 7373

9966 7100 3866 9959 1111 1010

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

020 020 020 020 020

7600 7318 7629 7318 7052

3456 5039 7282 5198 9417

struttandparker.com

Prince Edward Mansions 1,730 sq ft (160.7 sq m)

| Notting Hill | W2

A beautifully presented three bedroom flat on the fourth floor of a sought after red brick mansion block.

Entrance hall

ÂŁ1,700 per week Unfurnished

Notting Hill Lettings 020 7221 1111

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

27/04/2012 15:06

Stafford Terrace 2,403 sq ft (223 sq m)

| Kensington | W8

Interior designed and finished to the highest standard, a stunning maisonette situated in a beautiful period building on one of Kensingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most desirable residential streets. bedroom with en suite bathroom | Kitchen/dining room | Master Third | bedroom with en suite shower room Media room/bedroom four with en suite steam shower and sauna | Utility room | Garden Drawing room

Second bedroom with en suite shower oom

ÂŁ4,500 per week, Furnished

Kensington Lettings 020 7938 3866

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100% of our landlords would recommend our service to their friends and family

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I have already recommended Wilfords to others and will continue to do so in the future. It took me two days to find what I was looking for and Wilfords helped me out every step B Ledermann, Covent Garden

6 Holland Street W8 4LT I +44(0)20 7361 0400 I www.wilfords.com I info@wilfords.com

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Stafford Terrace, W8

ÂŁ2,650 per week

1894 Sq. Ft/ 176 Sq. M | 3 bedrooms | Long Let | Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea A stunning architecturally designed split-level apartment with private garden, located on a quiet tree lined street in the heart of the Phillimore estate. Wilfords London, 6 Holland Street W8 4LT wilfords.com

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+44(0)20 7361 0400

27/04/2012 24/04/2012 15:06 13:35

Westbourne Grove, W11

ÂŁ1,100 per week

975 Sq. Ft/ 91 Sq. M | 2 bedrooms | Long Let | Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea A beautiful two bedroom flat with a substantial garden. Wilfords London, 6 Holland Street W8 4LT wilfords.com

ABSO NH MAY.indb 132 wilfords.indd 3-4

+44(0)20 7361 0400

27/04/2012 15:06

Holland Road, W14 ÂŁ695,000

Horbury Crescent, W11 ÂŁ4.35m

799 Sq. Ft./ 74 Sq. M | 2 Bedrooms | Share of Freehold | Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea A beautifully refurbished two bedroom apartment located on the first floor of this handsome period building.

2571 Sq. Ft./ 239 Sq. M | 3 Bedrooms | Freehold | Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea A charming townhouse located on one of the most desirable and quiet streets in Notting Hill within the catchment area for Ladbroke Garden Square.

Wilfords London, 6 Holland Street W8 4LT

wilfords.com

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+44(0)20 7361 0400

wilfords.com

+44(0)20 7361 0400

27/04/2012 24/04/2012 15:06 13:35

ProPerty

duty bound

PHOTO: GeORGe RaMSaY

John D Wood & Co. in the Country

rollo Miles assesses the Stamp Duty Land tax’s impact on Notting Hill’s property market

“A

t the end of March, Stamp Duty Land tax (SDLt) was raised from 5% to 7% on residential property purchases over £2m with immediate effect, and for residential purchases by ‘certain non-natural persons’ – companies and collective ownerships/partnerships – a new 15% SDLt was introduced. It also announced that from April 2013 the Government is planning to levy ‘large annual charges on £2m properties held by companies. A month or so on, the response from our buyers, sellers and staff indicate that, despite everything, the rules of the game have not changed and it is business as usual. A case in point was the reaction a client buying a property over £6 million in Holland Park had to the news of the new 7% SDLt level - paying an extra 2% amortises pretty comfortably when you’re planning to spend at least 15 years in a beautiful house. If there is a direct knock-on effect to the budget, property in the £2£2.25 million bracket will be the most

affected as purchasers acclimatize to the new threshold, just as those buying over £1 million did in 2011 when the 5% bracket was introduced. Property purchasers above £2 million got no warning this time, as the new level was introduced at midnight on Budget day. only a handful of clients at John D Wood & Co. were able to rush through the last stages of the conveyancing process to beat the midnight deadline. I predict, for the short term, the pressures of supply and demand will continue to push local property prices upwards. Houses in Notting Hill reached a new high in April, according to the John D Wood & Co. indices which shows values are up 30% year on year. the ever-increasing demand for property in Notting Hill and Holland Park from across the world coupled with a lack of stock, means that now is an ideal time to take advantage of a very strong market. If you would like to discuss the sale of your property, I would be delighted to hear from you: 020 7727 2233. Rollo Miles is manager of John D Wood

WEST SUSSEX, EAST PRESTON this 4 bedroom waterside property offers much potential, in particular for redevelopment or replacement with a more modern and contemporary house to take full advantage of the magnificent views (StPC). the plot not only offers direct access from the garden to the beach, but the title also extends as far as the mean high water mark, making it ideal for a second home. Guide Price £995,000 020 7908 1108; chd@johndwood.co.uk

John D Wood & Co. International

NEW ZEALAND, TAKAPUNA A beautiful apartment of approx. 3,700 sq ft (350 sq m) occupying an entire floor of this elegant waterfront complex set in approx. 1.25 acres. the property offers panoramic sea views, spacious open plan living, 3 spacious bedrooms, extensive private decking and separate media room. Guide Price £1,740,000 020 7908 1108 international@johndwood.co.uk

John D Wood & Co. Holland Park • 020 7727 2233 • www.johndwood.co.uk 134

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Absolu

JOHN D WOOD & CO.smopolitan With 140 years of experience we are often the first port of call for overseas buyers and tenants looking to live in central London. This international profile is backed by extensive online and print marketing to achieve the very best results for our clients.

ABSO NH MAY.indb 135 Absolutely Notting Hill May12.indd 2

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8 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, garden.

R GEN E FO

IONS AT R

A broad white stucco-fronted Victorian terraced house situated in one of the prettiest streets in Kensington. Currently arranged as three charming, well presented flats, which includes a ground and garden maisonette, a one bedroom 1st floor flat and a 2nd and 3rd floor maisonette. Subject to the necessary consents this west facing house could be reinstated back into an imposing family house. Approx. 3,707 sq ft.

TRUSTE

BRUNSWICK GARDENS, W8

140 Years of Property

72 - 2 012

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ5,850,00

KENSINGTON 020 7908 1100 kcs.sales@johndwood.co.uk

ABSO NH Notting MAY.indb 136 Absolutely Hill May12.indd 3

www.johndwood.co.uk

27/04/2012 09:41 15:07 25/04/2012

Absolu

12 09:41

LANSDOWNE ROAD, W11 A beautiful Victorian house with its own garden backing onto the most wonderful communal gardens (Montpelier Gardens). With much charm and character, featuring French windows onto the garden, fireplaces, fine cornicing and working shutters. Approx. 2,715 sq ft. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, drawing room, utility room, cloakroom, workshop. Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ6,750,000

HOLLAND PARK 020 7727 2233 hln.sales@johndwood.co.uk

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www.johndwood.co.uk

27/04/2012 15:07 25/04/2012 09:42

ILcHesteR PLAce, W14 A spectacular family house in this rarely available location moments from Holland Park. Beautifully presented with excellent entertaining space and well proportioned accommodation, further benefiting from a spacious terrace leading onto a south facing garden. 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, study, wine cellar, utility room. Unfurnished ÂŁ6,750 per week

HOLLAND PARK 020 7727 2233 por.lets@johndwood.co.uk

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www.johndwood.co.uk

27/04/2012 15:07 25/04/2012 09:42

Property

LUXURIOUS LETTING A wonderful six bedroom family house with superb entertaining space and a cinema room, located in the heart of Kensington

What A truly magnificent family house in the very heart of Kensington which has been redesigned to optimise space and light throughout.

Where Alma Terrace is a sleepy street just south of Kensington High Street in Stratford Village. The property faces

012 09:42

east and benefits from a beautiful split-level west-facing garden as well as a wonderful roof terrace.

Why The house offers superb entertaining space including a cinema room as well as generous family accommodation. The owners designed the house for themselves and it feels

like a home, rather than just a space in which to live.

Details ÂŁ6,800 per week, available unfurnished for long lets.

Contact Mountgrange Heritage; 020 7937 9976 mountgrangeheritage.co.uk 139

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In their own words

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Miles Meacock, Partner, Strutt & Parker LLP PHOTO: RICHARD CLARK

lthough I now live in London, I hope to move to the country one day so that my children can experience the freedom of wide open space that I enjoyed when I grew up. Climbing trees, bike rides, dog walking, exploring the wildlife, all things that are associated with living in the country but aren’t synonomous with urban living. No wonder then that there is research showing that seven out of ten Britons who live in rural areas are former city dwellers who have moved to the countryside in search of a better life. However, city life and London in particular, presents its own unique advantages and, for a young family, there is masses to do and it is all so close to hand. Friends who have led the charge and moved to the country, on the other hand, bemoan the commute and the amount of time spent driving to school, the shops or just to friends for dinner. I envy their fresh air and green open spaces, they envy my 20 minute commute and proximity to everything from a newspaper and pint of milk through to all those things which define London’s cultural heartbeat. Whether home is Oxfordshire or Notting Hill, there are compelling pros and cons for each way of life and, certainly, there are many people from either camp who wouldn’t countenance a move either way, or living anywhere else. But if schooling or the commute aren’t the eventual tipping point for choosing one over the other, then house prices may well be the determining factor. In the same way that the huge demand from foreign buyers has pushed up prices in prime central London, countryside residents are often priced out of their own environment if it is desirable enough to urbanites with disposable incomes. Following the same trend, such patterns serve to sustain activity in the lettings market as families find themselves renting a property for much longer than they had previously intended, whilst low stock levels and overseas demand forces prices further beyond their grasp. In Notting Hill, an area which is popular as ever with its own vibrant edginess, world famous market and Bond Street-style boutiques, not one sector of the property market is exempt from the ubiquitous disparity between supply and demand and competition for good quality stock is as fierce as I have ever witnessed. Whether moving to this area from the country or moving from within the capital, many buyers are finding themselves in a catch-22 situation and, having sold their own property with ease (and probably for a record price), they are often finding the buying process a lot more testing. Wherever one is moving to and from, buyers must be totally prepared for the contest ahead and I sincerely hope that we will see a better balancing act between supply and demand in the months ahead. t

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020 7221 1111 miles.meacock@struttandparker.com

27/04/2012 15:07

Property

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Ambitious When you are looking to sell or rent, our ambitious teams will bring energy and fresh ideas to achieving you the best results this spring.

Keith Rigby, director of sales in Notting Hill is typical of our ambitious staff. With 20 years experience in sales Keith not only brings expertise and an abundance of local knowledge, but also plenty of enthusiasm to selling your home. It is perhaps why 97% of our customers would recommend us to their family and friends.

Scan the QR code using your iphone or smart phone to download the Bective Leslie Marsh App.

Chelsea 020 7589 6677

Kensington 020 7795 4288

Notting Hill 020 7221 4805

Ladbroke Grove 020 7221 0330

Brook Green 020 7603 5181

Refreshingly different estate agents | bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

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Chelsea 020 7589 6677

Kensington 020 7795 4288

Notting Hill 020 7221 4805

Ladbroke Grove 020 7221 0330

Brook Green 020 7603 5181

bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

Fit for a King

Prince Edward Mansions Notting Hill W2 A sensational lateral apartment (233 sq m/2,510 sq ft approx.) situated on the third floor (with lift) of an imposing red brick mansion building with porter service. This exceptionally spacious, predominantly south facing apartment has been beautifully refurbished throughout and is presented in immaculate order. 3 bedrooms, 3 en suite bathrooms, cloakroom, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/ breakfast room.

Share of freehold ÂŁ3,950,000 Notting Hill office bc@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 4805

Refreshingly different estate agents

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Volume & Light

Powis Mews Notting Hill W11 A quite remarkable architect designed house (313 sq m/3,257 sq ft approx.) offering a dramatic combination of light and volume in this quiet Notting Hill setting. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), en suite shower room, cloakroom, double reception room, second reception room, bespoke kitchen, dining room, study, utility room, wine cellar, gym, roof terrace.

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Freehold ÂŁ3,650,000 Notting Hill office bc@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 4805

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Chelsea 020 7589 6677

Kensington 020 7795 4288

Notting Hill 020 7221 4805

Ladbroke Grove 020 7221 0330

Brook Green 020 7603 5181

bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

Period Grandeur

Palace Court Notting Hill W2 A magnificent raised ground floor apartment (226 sq m/2,432 sq ft approx.) in this secure, professionally portered mansion building. The property boasts a 40 ft interconnecting double reception room with southerly views of Palace Court, a large kitchen/breakfast room and three spacious bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms. 3 bedrooms, 3 en suite bathrooms, cloakroom, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, shared patio.

Share of freehold ÂŁ3,650,000 Notting Hill office bc@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 4805

Refreshingly different estate agents

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Portobello Living

Vernon Yard Notting Hill W11

Freehold ÂŁ1,395,000

A beautifully presented freehold mews house (88 sq m/954 sq ft approx.) in this Notting Hill office wonderful Notting Hill location. The property offers well proportioned living accommodation over three floors with highlights including a charming open plan bc@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk kitchen/dining room, a large first floor reception room, two double bedrooms and 020 7221 4805 a sun-trap roof terrace. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, reception room, dining room, kitchen, roof terrace.

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Chelsea 020 7589 6677

Kensington 020 7795 4288

Notting Hill 020 7221 4805

Ladbroke Grove 020 7221 0330

Brook Green 020 7603 5181

bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

Attention to Detail

McGregor Road Notting Hill W11 A stunning four storey Victorian house (241 sq m/2,591 sq ft approx.) that combines contemporary and traditional features with practical family living. McGregor Road runs between All Saints Road and St Lukes Road, minutes from fashionable restaurants and within easy reach of Westbourne Grove and Notting Hill. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (2 en suite), reception room, kitchen/ dining room, study area, patio, walled garden.

Freehold ÂŁ3,600,000 Ladbroke Grove office mm@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 0330

Refreshingly different estate agents

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Grand Design

Milverton Road Queens Park NW6 An exceptional and enormous family home (399 sq m/4,295 sq ft approx.) of excellent quality and intelligently arranged. 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (3 en suite), 2 shower rooms (1 en suite), 2 cloakrooms, 2 reception rooms, open plan kitchen/dining room, dressing room, office, garage, terrace, garden, off street parking.

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Freehold ÂŁ2,650,000 Ladbroke Grove office mm@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 0330

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Chelsea 020 7589 6677

Kensington 020 7795 4288

Notting Hill 020 7221 4805

Ladbroke Grove 020 7221 0330

Brook Green 020 7603 5181

bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

Contemporary Living

Pembridge Villas Notting Hill W11 A unique and modern family house, finished to an exacting standard and benefitting from surround sound, air conditioning and a high level security system. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, double reception room, kitchen/dining room, garden, roof terrace, underground parking.

Modern Luxury

Chepstow Place Notting Hill W2 A spacious flat located on the top floor of this well maintained and sought after portered block. The property benefits from hard wood flooring in the reception room and designer appliances in the kitchen. 3 bedrooms, shower room, en suite bathroom, reception room, kitchen, communal gardens, communal gym, lift, porter.

Unfurnished ÂŁ2,500 per week Notting Hill office kf@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 5388

Furnished/Unfurnished ÂŁ1,100 per week Notting Hill office kf@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 5388

Refreshingly different estate agents

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Tranquil Mews

Pottery Lane Holland Park W11 A stunning house in excellent order throughout, offering a bright and spacious contemporary open plan living space as well as a wonderful roof terrace. The property is located on a pretty residential street close to the amenities of Holland Park. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen, roof terrace.

Furnished/Unfurnished ÂŁ1,000 per week Notting Hill office kf@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 5388

Period Elegance

Talbot Road Notting Hill W2 A fabulous duplex flat located on the raised ground and first floor of this impressive period conversion. The property boasts a beautiful first floor double reception room with high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows and original cornicing, ideal for entertaining. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, double reception room, kitchen, study area, balcony.

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Unfurnished ÂŁ975 per week Notting Hill office kf@bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk 020 7221 5388

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The market is moving. Are you? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get you the right price in the current market More buyers and tenants and a shortage of properties means the market is moving fast. With 50 branches across the Capital and an in depth knowledge of the local London markets, no oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better placed to find you the right buyer or tenant at the right price. For a current valuation of your property visit kfh.co.uk or your local branch in Bayswater.

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Hyde Park Street, Hyde Park, W2 £7,900,000 Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

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A magnificent townhouse which has been lovingly maintained and provides flexible accommodation, situated a few steps from Hyde Park and the boutiques and restaurants of Connaught Village. Freehold.

• • • • • • • •

Handsome low built house Six/seven bedrooms Four reception rooms Flexible accommodation Family fitted kitchen Double height conservatory Terrace and garden Partial view of Hyde Park

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Gloucester Terrace, Paddington, W2 ÂŁ850,000 A bright and spacious, newly refurbished two bedroom apartment within a smart modern building close to Paddington station and a short walk to Hyde Park. The accommodation further comprises; two bathrooms (one en suite), a bright well equipped kitchen and the benefit of a secure parking space. Leasehold. Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

Westbourne Terrace, Paddington, W2 ÂŁ875,000 A fantastic flat comprising in excess of 1,200 sq ft of well planned living space, including two double bedrooms, spacious reception room and wonderful central patio garden. Situated a short walk to Paddington station, Lancaster Gate underground and the shops and restaurants of Westbourne Grove. Leasehold. Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

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Gloucester Terrace, Bayswater, W2 £765,000 A beautiful two bedroom period apartment boasting typical high ornate ceilings and the rare and valuable advantage of a handsome private ground floor entrance. The property is presented in good condition with bright airy accommodation and is located a short walk to Paddington station and Hyde Park. Shared freehold. Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

St Marys Terrace, Little Venice, W2 £1,100,000 Boasting elegant high ceilings and substantial living space, measuring almost 2,000 sq ft, this family flat is located only moments to The Regent’s canal at Little Venice. The accommodation comprises; five generous bedrooms, double reception/dining room and magnificent kitchen/breakfast room. Leasehold. Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

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ProPerty PEDAL FOR PORTOBELLO

ProPerty neWs MARSH & PARSONS OFFER FEEFREE SALES TO CELEBRATE OPENING IN EARLS COURT the recent opening of the earls Court branch brings Marsh & Parsons up to a total of six offices in royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, more than any other agent. to celebrate, the office will be offering customers a 0% sales fee until July, a drop from the standard fee of 2.5%, which will save customers in the area an average of £22,500.* Managing Director, Peter rollings, said: “the new office is part of our expansion plan and perfectly complements our network of 15 London offices. *Average selling price in SW5 according to Land registry is in excess of £908,000. Marsh & Parsons 020 7835 0620

eaney Pearce are taking part in a sponsored cycle event with (so far) around 15 people cycling in aid of the rugby Portobello trust on 12 May. they will start at Notting Hill Farmers Market at 10.30am and take in the agent’s offices at South Kensington, Chelsea and back up to Notting Hill. Beaney Pearce staff will be on hand at each office during the event cheering on the riders, mopping brows and collecting for a very worthy cause – anyone is of course welcome to join them. the rugby Portobello trust is a youth, education and housing charity, based in North Kensington, with a long history of working individually with young people, to help them get the skills they need to help themselves. there is also a Jubilee street party is scheduled for 5 June on Ladbroke Walk from 12.30pm. Beaney Pearce has invited all the residents, friends and family and should be a hoot. Praying for sunshine! www.justgiving.co.uk/BeaneyPearce; www.rugbyportobello.org.uk

HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL INVESTS IN UK EXPANSION IN 2012

amptons International has announced that it will expand its UK network by approximately 10 per cent throughout 2012. the agency, which has opened four new branches so far this year and has several more imminent launches, is investing in strategic expansion throughout the course of 2012 in order to further grow its UK profi le. Hamptons International opened a flagship branch in Mayfair in January to capitalise on the strength of the prime central London market. the Mayfair branch will strengthen Hamptons International’s existing central London network of offices in Knightsbridge, Kensington, Chelsea and Sloane Square. Marc Goldberg, Head of Sales, commented: “our growth strategy throughout 2011 saw us target local markets linked to where we have a proven track record of strong performance. We will continue this approach throughout 2012, pinpointing new markets which fit seamlessly into our existing network. London is a specific focus for us, as are opportunities which allow us to expand our footprint beyond our traditional markets. Further afield, we are reviewing our international network to further support our UK proposition as well as to specifically address markets which are in high demand by our UK customers.” www.hamptons.co.uk.

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Estate Agents Sales, Lettings & Management

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on your doorstep! Our office is right on your doorstep so we are at hand to help with all your property needs.

Liz Thomson Residential Lettings

Michael Wilson Residential Sales

Thalia Bryan Management & Refurbishment

Notting Hill Office 153 Notting Hill Gate, W11 3LF 020 7221 2277 Kensington Office 020 7937 9976 North Kensington Office 020 8960 0181

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Pembridge Villas, W2 £1,200,000 Share of Freehold

Superb second floor flat with wonderful roof terrace on this popular street in the heart of Notting Hill. The property is just moments from Westbourne Grove and only a few minutes’ walk from the Central Line tube station at Notting Hill Gate. Reception room, kitchen, two double bedrooms, bathroom and roof terrace. Sole Agents

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020 7221 2277 holly @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Palace Court, W2 £1,150,000 Leasehold

Queens Gardens,W2 £825,000 Share of Freehold

Beautifully presented apartment situated on the lower ground floor of a handsome red brick period building in this prestigious location moments from Notting Hill Gate and the gates to Kensington Gardens. The property benefits from the sole use of a patio garden. Reception room, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and kitchen. Sole Agents

Attractive apartment with wonderful south-facing roof terrace which is perfectly located just behind the landmark Lancasters Development and just moments from Hyde Park and Paddington Station. The accommodation includes reception room, kitchen, two bedrooms, bathroom and roof terrace. Sole Agents

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020 7221 2277 saraht @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

020 7221 2277 lewis @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Sarah Thomas Sales Manager

Spring is here and with it comes a renewed vitality in the property market. Henrietta and Sarah need many more flats and houses to satisfy the enormous demand they have from applicants eager to rent or buy in the local area.

A a s l Henrietta Soames Lettings Manager

Kensington Office 020 7937 9976 Notting Hill Office 020 7221 2277 North Kensington Office 020 8960 0181

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Pembridge Villas, W11 £995 per week Wonderful top floor flat in a beautiful period building on this popular street in the heart of Notting Hill. Pembridge Villas is less than five minutes walk from Notting Hill Gate and Westbourne Grove. The flat offers generous living and entertaining space and benefits from a superb, sunny roof terrace. Reception room, kitchen, two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and roof terrace. Unfurnished.

020 7221 2277 charles @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Pembroke Gardens, W8 £4,000 per week

Ladbroke Square, W11 £750 per week

A beautifully presented family house in Kensington with wonderful lateral entertaining space, large private garden and off-street parking. The property is contemporary in style and faces west so benefits from wonderful light. Four reception rooms, kitchen, five bedrooms, five bathrooms, garden and off-street parking. Unfurnished.

A stunning flat on the second floor of a beautiful period building which has been lovingly refurbished with beautiful oak flooring throughout. The property has wonderful views of and access to the eight acre Ladbroke Square Gardens. Reception room, kitchen dining room, bedroom, shower room and access to communal gardens. Unfurnished.

020 7937 9976 amanda @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

020 7221 2277 hen @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

At Mountgrange Heritage we don’t just see our local area as somewhere we work but as somewhere we belong; our village. We produce our ‘Village Matters’ newsletter to shout about the great businesses and personalities that make up the village. Pick up the latest copy from one of our offices now or read it at mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

…values that you’ll love

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ProPerty

PaRK ClOSe, IlCHeSTeR PlaCe,W14 £1,800,000

Hot property

ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED THROUGHOUT this beautifully presented three bedroom lateral apartment has been archtichturally designed throughout and is located on the seventh floor (with lift) of this sought-after purposebuilt building. Wilfords 020 7361 0400 www.wilfords.com

HOlland PaRK avenUe, W11 £3,950,000 WIDE GRADE II LISTED HOUSE this five bedroom house house overlooks Holland Walk to the front and Ladbroke road to the rear. Presented in good condition with original period features throughout, the house has a wide entrance hallway with an excellent double kitchen and dining area on the raised ground floor. It is moments from Holland Park tube station (Central line) and within walking distance of Notting Hill Gate too (Circle, District and Central line). Jackson Stops & Staff 020 7727 5111; www.jackson-stops.co.uk

lOWeR addISOn GaRdenS W14 £6,995,000 STUNNING FAMILY HOUSE recently refurbished, a wonderfully wide family house, on five floors (approx 4,465 sq.ft./414 sq.m), with excellent proportions throughout and lovely open views to the rear over the private 50ft south facing rear garden and beyond. John Wilcox & Co. 020 7602 2352; www.johndwood.co.uk 160

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WINKW

Ladbroke Crescent, W11

ÂŁ550,000 Share of Freehold

An exceptional top floor flat that has recently been refurbished to an immaculate condition. This bright and airy flat benefits from a private roof terrace with views across South-West London and boasts a well equipped open plan kitchen. Ladbroke Crescent is unique Victorian stucco lined no thru road, situated between Cornwell Crescent and Lancaster Road. The world famous Portobello Road lies only a few moments away with its fashionably shops, bars and restaurants and Ladbroke Grove Tube Station is just around the corner.

Kilravock Street, W10

ÂŁ585,000 Freehold

A lovely example of a terraced Victorian cottage on one of the most sought after streets in the Queens Park conservation area. The house offers a double reception room and a fully fitted kitchen with doors opening onto a pretty south facing garden. To the first floor, two double bedrooms and a large contemporary bathroom that benefits from vaulted ceiling. The property also offers the potential of a loft conversion (STP) to provide a third bedroom. Queens Park with its many shops and restaurants is a short walk as is the Bakerloo line station.

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Hamptons Notting Hill Sales. 020 7717 5469 nottinghillsales@hamptons.co.uk

Hereford Road, W2 - £1,925,000 - Freehold A fantastic London home with two bedrooms two bathrooms and large roof terrace, refurbished to a very high standard.

Millwood Street, W10

Ladbroke Square, W11 - £1,195,000 - Share of Freehold A delightful and spacious lower ground floor two bedroom apartment offering a great deal of charm in a fine period building in the heart of Notting Hill.

Ladbroke Gardens, W11 - £899,000 - Leasehold On the top floor of an impressive Victorian building in the heart of Notting Hill overlooking a mature communal garden and with great proportions.

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Ladbroke Grove, W10 - £799,950 - Leasehold

Gloucester Terrace, W2 - £575,000 - Leasehold A well-proportioned and bright one bedroom apartment ideally located on the second floor of a period building, close to Westbourne Grove.

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A stylishly refurbished upper maisonette which has been designed and finished to exacting standards with large first floor living room and a great feeling of space.

- £1,800,000 - Freehold A lovely contemporary flat-fronted three storey terraced townhouse moments from Portobello Road, with great living space and plenty of decked outside space.

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In the year of medals, we are already on a winning streak. Hamptons International Silver for Best for UK Large Estate Agency and Best for Marketing.

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Hamptons Notting Hill Lettings. 020 7034 0405 nottinghilllettings@hamptons-int.com

Crescent Mansions, W11 - £1,200 per week Furnished

Leinster Square, W2 - £950 per week Furnished A beautifully presented 2 bedroom split level apartment located only moments from Westbourne Grove boasting wooden floors and fantastic viewsand fantastic views

Dunworth Mews, W11 - £795 per week Furnished This architecturally designed 2 bedroom mews house sits within a secure gated development on a quiet cobbled street just off Portobello Road.

The Baynards, W2 - £775 per week Furnished

Ladbroke Square, W11 - £575 per week Furnished This stunning, one double bedroom apartment is located on the first floor of a beautiful period building and offers views and access to Ladbroke Square Gardens.

Hatherley Court, W2 - £400 per week Furnished This contemporary one bedroom apartment sits on the top floor (with lift) of portered building and boasts neutral furnishings and separate kitchen.

This elegant, recently refurbished two bedroom property boasts contemporary interior, modern kitchen, bathrooms and wood floors.

This contemporary two double bedroom apartment sits on the second floor (with lift) of a popular portered block and boasts a modern interior and private balcony

Gold Winner in Best for Property Management

Hamptons International has been crowned Gold Winner in Best for Property Management and at the 2011 Lettings Agency of the Year Awards in association with The Sunday Times and The Times, recognising Hamptons’ commitment to exceptional customer service and its status as an employer of choice. Call us to find out more about how our Property Management Services can help us meet your property requirements.

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

HEWER STREET, W10 A superb four storey house set within a modern gated courtyard of three properties built circa 2005. This wonderful house offers contemporary living with particular emphasis on entertaining space. Approx. 1,539 sq ft. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen/dining room. ÂŁ1,100,000 Freehold 020 7229 2404 nottinghill@faronsutaria.co.uk

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

CORNWALL CRESCENT, W11 A wonderful upper maisonette accessed on the 1st floor of a converted period building. This spacious apartment is presented in excellent decorative order and is conveniently situated towards the Ladbroke Grove end of the street. Approx. 1,002 sq ft. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room. ÂŁ1,100,000 Leasehold 020 7229 2404 nottinghill@faronsutaria.co.uk

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16 Lambton Place, Notting Hill London W11 2SH t 020 7243 3535 w www.homesite.co.uk e info@homesite.co.uk N o T T I N G

H I L L

B AY S WAT E R

K E N S I N G To N

H o L L A N D

Cleveland Terrace, W2

PA R K

ÂŁ1, 200, 000

Stylish west facing lateral apartment set in this striking mid - terrace property. The flat is in very good condition with high ceilings, wood floors & three impressive sash windows in the reception room. Both Lancaster Gate (Central), Paddington Mainline Station (Heathrow Express, Circle, District, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City) are close at hand. Hyde Park is also easily accessible.

I N D E P E N D E N T

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Homesite estate agents

N oT T I N G

H I L L

B AY S WAT E R

K E N S I N G To N

Clifton Gardens, W9

H o L L A N D

PA R K

ÂŁ4, 700, 000

An un-modernised, five storey, mid terrace period town house in Little Venice, Maida Vale. Currently providing 3,881 square feet / 361 square metres with the potential to develop the property and increase its size. It has a south facing garden & is within close proximity to the canal, cafes, restaurants & delis of Little Venice. This is an excellent opportunity to create the perfect London home!

D E D I C A T E D

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A P P R o A C H A B L E

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Market

SPEAK taXinG times? the 2012 Budget was fiscally neutral. Despite recent economic data released suggesting the economy is beginning to improve, the announcement by the credit ratings firms Moody and Fitch to place the UK on “negative watch/ outlook” was at the forefront of George osborne’s mind and he stuck rigidly to his deficit-cutting plan. Key points impacting the property market include: • A new stamp duty level of 7 per cent was announced for residential properties over £2m from midnight on 21 March 2012. Any such homes purchased through an off-shore corporate structure will be liable for 15 per cent stamp duty. • The Government will extend the capital gains tax regime to gains on the disposal of UK residential property and shares/interests in such property by non-residents. • Government support for £150m of tax increment financing to help councils promote development which will help to deliver 3,000 new homes. Catherine Penman, head of research at Carter Jonas comments: “the effect of these rises will be most prominent in London which typically accounts for 85 per cent of property sales over £2m within the UK.” Coralie Moore; www.carterjonas.co.uk

An operatic occasion

trutt & Parker’s Notting Hill office are sponsoring a special charity performance of the opera Lucia Di Lamermoor in aid of the rugby Portobello trust. this year the funds from the opera Gala will support the new education programme, support into a work programme and help continue succesful work dealing with gang, gun and knife crime culture. the evening promises to be wonderful. Lucia di Lammermoor is a story of two feuding families, torn by conflicting loalties and iseas of patriostism, based on a novel by Walter Scott. the scene is Scotland in the late 17th century. the ravenswood family has been dipossessed by the Ashtons in the Jacobite wars. Luica Ashton’s brother is determined to marry her off to his ally Arturo, Lord Bucklaw. But Lucia loves edgardo ravenswood, and the personal and political strife that ensues from the drama of the opera. though best known for Lucia’s mad scene, as her world collapses, this is throughout a miraculous score of depth and beauty, the epitome of bel canto tragedy. The performance will take place on 27 June at the Holland Park Theatre at 7.30pm and tickets start at £90. 020 7629 7282; www.struttandparker.com

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ProPerty

The

d&G diary

absolutely

Kim Turner Bective Leslie Marsh FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? Kitchen W8 on Abingdon road. Love to start with their orkney Scallops followed by a their famous whole lemon sole.

W8’S BEST KEPT SECRET? Piano Bar Kensington, a true New york-style piano bar in the heart of Kensington.

THE FINEST COCKTAIL COMES FROM…. the Gorgeous Gore cocktail at the Gore on Kensington Gore is the perfect mix of vodka and berries.

FOR THAT SOMEONE SPECIAL?

e’re back, after two weeks of pretty slow and unproductive business at easter. Am I becoming ine of those negative people our MD wanted “to kill” last year?! I love holidays as much as the next person, but the market waits for nobody, ski trip or no. And now we’re straight into the Jubilee (more days off) and don’t even get me started on the olympics and euro 2012. Dare I say I’m over it already and just want to do some business? excited to say that another issue of our in-house magazine, Bridge, comes out in May. It’s been a nerve-wracking edition, what with changing publishers, chaotic uploads and all, and we have all gained a few grey hairs in the process. Watch out for the bumper edition which is infused with a ‘Great Britain’ twist (the mag will appear on your doormats soon). our latest D&G catch is our newest recruit, the very bright Harry Bailey who has recently joined our busy sales department. He’s settling in extremely well to an office full of girls. Luckily, he’s very charming and is already making an excellent start. We’ve already forced him into a compulsory ‘welcome Harry’ evening at Portobello Pizzeria. Maddie Lewington MNAEA, Manager 020 7727 7777; douglasandgordon.com

Located 100 feet above Kensington High Street in central London, the Kensington roof Gardens and Babylon restaurant are truly spectacular. enjoy a great meal and a walk through the gardens.

A LOST HOUR IN W8 WOULD BE SPENT… Wondering around Kensington Gardens and having a drink at the orangery. once the setting for the most lavish of court entertainments, these days it is the perfect location for an elegant lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea.

AN EXCEPTIONAL W8 PROPERTY? Hillsleigh road. A unique and beautiful freehold home prestigiously situated in a tranquil and highly desirable Kensington location with access to the exclusive Campden Hill Square by separate negotiation. Bective Leslie Marsh 020 7795 4288; www.bectivelesliemarsh.co.uk

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

Notting Hill Gate Gate From Notting Hill From£280 £270 pw pw Furnished

Chelsea Borders West End

Studio/1Bedroom Bedroom| |11Bathroom Bathroom Studio/1 Period Conversion | Close |toTube TubeStations Nearby Contemporary Furnishings

Hyde Hyde Park Park020 0207402 74029866 9866

Imperial Wharf 7348 7620 imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk Hyde Park 020 020 7402 9866 hyde@brlets.co.uk

Hyde ParkWharf 020 7402 9866 7620 imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk hyde@brlets.co.uk Imperial 020 7348

Notting Hill Chelsea

Knightsbridge Chelsea Borders

hyde@brlets.co.uk hyde@brlets.co.uk

Notting Hill Gate Kensington

£700 £700pw pwFurnished Furnished

Notting Hill GateFrom £450 pw £450 pw Furnished Chelsea Borders Furn/Unfurnished

£350 pw Furnished From £360

£795 £725 pw pw Furnished Furnished

£1,100 From £950 pw pw Furnished Furnished

Bedroom || 11 Reception Reception||11Bathroom Bathroom 11 Bedroom Balcony | 24hr Porterage | Close to Amenities Lift | Porter | Parking | Tube & Amenities Nearby

Bedrooms || 11 Reception Reception || 22 Bathrooms Bathrooms 22 Bedrooms PeriodPorterage Conversion | Near |Park & High Street 24hr | Parking Balcony

Kensington020 0207938 79383522 3522 Kensington

Hyde Park 020 7402 9866 Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112

Knightsbridge 2112 imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk Imperial Wharf 020 020 7581 7348 7620

Chelsea Knightsbridge

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

£1,475pw pwUnfurnished Furnished £1,000

Kensington Kensington

hyde@brlets.co.uk knight@brlets.co.uk

£1,600 Furnished £1,295 pwpw Unfurnished

Knightsbridge Kensington

£3,950 £1,600 pw pw Furnished Furnished

Bedrooms || 11 Reception Reception||32Bathrooms Bathrooms 42 Bedrooms Fitness Suite | Parking | 24hr Porterage Townhouse | Parking | Amenities Nearby

Bedrooms || 11 Reception Reception| |22Bathrooms Bathrooms 34 Bedrooms Mansion Apartment | Lift | 24hrtoPorterage Lift | Communal Garden | Close Amenities

Bedrooms || 11 Reception Reception| |23Bathrooms Bathrooms 23 Bedrooms Fitness| Suite | Parking| Parking | 24hr Porterage Porter Lift | Terrace

Knightsbridge 7581 2112 Kensington 020020 7938 3522

Knightsbridge 7581 Kensington 020020 7938 35222112

Nine offices open six days a week: Beaufort Park 020 8732 7980 7517 8057 6088 Canary Wharf 020 7038 City 020 7213 9700

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

Hampstead Highgate Hyde Park

020 7435 9681 020 8341 2335 020 7402 9866

Imperial Wharf Kensington Knightsbridge

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

020 7348 7620 020 7938 3522 020 7581 2112

Hong Kong Singapore Dubai India

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

primelocation.com

27/04/2012 15:10 21/11/2011 13:03

LANDLORDS

WE have the tenants YOU have the keys Demand for rental properties is currently outstripping supply and in some parts of London we are seeing over 10 applicants for every property

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We urgently need properties to let in all central London locations We can guarantee you better quality tenants than anyone else

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Association of Residential Letting Agents

Nine offices open six days a week:

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Call us now on 0800 092 9656 or email info@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk

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H h s a w y m

ChamberlayNe road NW10 a lovely SemI deTaChed FamIly houSe oN a CharmINg STreeT IN broNdeSbury Park. ThIS ProPerTy IS adeQuaTely aPPorTIoNed, WITh SIx bedroomS roomS, TWo reCePTIoNS, uTIlITy room, kITCheN dINer, gardeN aNd garage. ToTal aPProxImaTe Floor area 2268SQ FT (210:7 SQ. m)

ÂŁ1,299,950 Freehold

PeoPle you TruST, homeS you love

R E A L E S TAT E S 85 Salusbury road, Queens Park NW6 6Nh 020 7372 5950 www.queensparkrealestates.co.uk Zoopla.co.uk I Primelocation.com I Findaproperty.com I The Property ombudsman

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12 12:18

Home House Estates is a full service, RICS accredited estate agency with energetic, experienced and highly professional sales and letting agents. We pride ourselves on giving you excellent customer service and access to our profound knowledge of Central London property. Further to our estate agency business, we also offer a discrete buying service called Private Office. Through Private Office, we are able to offer an advisory acquisition service, saving you time and money, as well as providing you with all manner of advice on immigration, tax, finance and even schooling. If you would like to know more or need a professional opinion, please do not hesitate to call us.

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Holland Park Office: 020 7727 5111 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

Lettings: 020 7727 5222

Crescent Mansions W11

jackson-stops.co.uk/London

ÂŁ845 per week Unfurnished

A well-proportioned lateral apartment on the first floor of a popular building, well-located for the amenities of Holland Park and Notting Hill, yet peacefully positioned overlooking communal gardens. Reception room, eat-in kitchen with separate utility room, two double bedrooms, third study/baby room, family bathroom and guest WC. Holland Park Office: 020 7727 5222 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

Fast find 47280

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

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Hippodrome Mews W11

ÂŁ1,300,000 Freehold

A conveniently located three bedroom mews house, presented in excellent condition throughout, Hippodrome Mews is a quiet enclave located very close to Clarendon Cross and Avondale Park, within walking distance to Portobello Road and Notting Hill 1184 sq ft. Kitchen, two reception rooms, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, two further bedrooms, bathroom, terrace. Holland Park Office: 020 7727 5111 holland.park@jackson-stops.co.uk

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Fast find 47573

25/04/2012 27/04/2012 18:53 15:10

NEW DOUGLAS WEBSITE AND ONLINE GORDON NOWWW.COM

Raising the bar We don’t rest on our laurels, despite the fact our website has always been commended and complimented, we’re proud to announce a brand spanking new one. Visit douglasandgordon.com right now to see for yourself.

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£4,100,000 Freehold Aldridge Road Villas, W11 A stylish family home situated in this quiet residential street. The house is presented in excellent order over five floors.

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Play room, Utility room, Cloakroom, Garden.

Notting Hill Sales Office: 020 7727 7777 nhsales@dng.co.uk

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Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush

Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside

East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ2,750,000 Freehold Campden Hill Road, W8 A smart and elegant house which has been beautifully refurbished throughout in a contemporary style.

3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Double reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Garden, Utility room.

Kensington Sales Office: 020 7792 1881 kensales@dng.co.uk

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Best Blog in Show

Te 8 o yo

Our blog has been voted the best in the United Kingdom at the Primelocation.com awards. With refreshingly outspoken views on the property market youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see a different perspective at douglasandgordon.com/blog

ÂŁ2,000,000 Freehold Kensington Park Mews, W11 A superb mews house situated in this wonderful private, gated development. The property has been wonderfully maintained throughout.

3 bedrooms, En-suite bathroom, Shower room, Kitchen/dining area, Reception room, Terrace, Parking.

Notting Hill Sales Office: 020 7727 7777 nhsales@dng.co.uk

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Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush

Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside

East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,695,000 Freehold Matheson Road, W14 A substantial and well configured family home, situated in this convenient location.

3/5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2/3 reception rooms, Kitchen, Dining room, Study, Garden, Cellar.

Kensington Sales Office: 020 7792 1881 kensales@dng.co.uk

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Like to know who’s looking at your property?

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Viewing feedback live on the web 24/7 with D&G’s unique MyPropertyTracker feature.

£625,000 Share of Freehold Holland Road, W14 A bright and spacious apartment in excellent condition, enjoying a private entrance and garden.

£ W 2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Kitchen, Reception room, Garden, Storage.

Kensington Sales Office: 020 7792 1881 kensales@dng.co.uk

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A f

N n

27/04/2012 15:11

Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bush

Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside

East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ495,000 Leasehold Westbourne Park Road, W2 An attractive and well-proportioned two bedroom apartment on the first floor of this period building.

2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen.

Notting Hill Sales Office: 020 7727 7777 nhsales@dng.co.uk

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Building blocks that can house the homeless

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You can now donate £5 by recycling your old mobile. Simply collect a freepost envelope from a D&G office.

£995 per week Unfurnished Peel Street W8

A fabulous newly refurbished house quietly located just off Kensington Church Street.

£825 per week Unfurnished Holland Park Avenue W11

A stunning split-level apartment close to Notting Hill Gate and Holland Park.

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Kensington Lettings Office: 020 7792 1331 kenlets@dng.co.uk

3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, Patio.

Notting Hill Lettings Office: 020 7727 8000 nhlets@dng.co.uk

2 double bedrooms, En-suite shower room, Bathroom, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen.

27/04/2012 15:11

Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster

South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside

East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield

www.douglasandgordon.com

£750 per week Unfurnished Palace Court W2

A superb, second floor flat in this period building which has been newly refurbished throughout.

£595 per week Unfurnished Campden Street W8

A stunning ground floor flat in this period building just of Kensington Church Street.

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Kensington Lettings Office: 020 7792 1331 kenlets@dng.co.uk

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Lift.

Kensington Lettings Office: 020 7792 1331 kenlets@dng.co.uk

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Patio.

25/04/2012 15:11 16:05 27/04/2012

Maddie Miller Guerilla Gardener and Sales Manager Certainly no weed, Maddie goes to great lengths to cultivate perfect results in the urban environment. Our people are what make us great, and Maddie is a hardy perennial.

douglasandgordon.com Extraordinary people

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12 17:45

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NU - LINE

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T: 020 8206 5177 F: 020 8206 5188 E: sales@nulinebathrooms.com www.nulinebathrooms.com

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