WIMBLEDON
ABSOLUTELY South West Wimbledon NOVEMBER 2018 / £3.95
ECO LIVING Being stylish and sustainable
NOVEM B ER 2018
ANNI ALBERS The textile artist at Tate Modern
Cool
CONCEPT F A S H I O N F AV O U R I T E S F O R A U T U M N
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ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 29/10/2018 10:46
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DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION • • • •
LOFT CONVERSIONS 3 BASEMENT EXCAVATIONS 3 REFURBISHMENTS 3 EXTENSIONS 3
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Photography by Paul Craig
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ABSOLUTELY
Contents NOVEMBER 2018
32
106 12
C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES
FOOD & DRINK 54 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL
AGENDA
58 RECIPES
10 things we’re coveting this month
16
Diary dates for November
20 WEAVING STORIES
Anni Alber’s contribution to modern art
FA S H I O N 30 BESPOKE IS BEST
Tailor-made pieces from Michael Platt
32 THE SHOOT
New knits from Madeleine Thompson
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 43 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL This month’s best beauty buys
45 SPARKS WILL FLY Bonfire hues and fiery statements
News from the industry
54
Easy British classics from Arlo's
INTERIORS 70 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News and views from the world of design
74
IT'S A SMALL WORLD
Miniatures from Chisel & Mouse
T R AV E L 106 AFRICAN ADVENTURE From Mozambique to Zambia
PROPERTY 124 LIVING THE DREAM
The most luxurious London properties
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.
ON THE COVER Laura Bailey models Brora's Cashmere Lace and Tuck Stitch cardigan, part of Brora's 25th anniversary collection designed by Jayne Pickering. Photography by Johnny Mallen; art direction by Victoria Stapleton; styling by Jayne Pickering brora.co.uk
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Replacing beautiful timber windows and doors, beautifully
EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR ENXHI KOLECI EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES GROUP SALES MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI MAGAZINE MANAGER REBECCA FLEUR MAGAZINE MANAGER TOLGA SAYLAN ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN DESIGNER CATHERINE PERKINS MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI
Bring the outdoors in
CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@zest-media.com
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Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.
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Editor’s
WEDGIES These painted doorstops come in all your favourite characters. Ours is Major Tom. page 73
LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S November issue highlights
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here's a lot of talk of sustainability in this issue, though it is also said that the word is overused. What does it mean for something to be sustainable? Can something be sustainable without being entirely ethical? And can we always be certain? If sustainability is in danger of becoming a buzzword at the expense of its meaning, then we need to be more discerning. When Skandium decided to make its South Kensington base into an 'eco townhouse', they worried about overuse of the term and decided to focus specifically on longevity, on selling products designed to last for generations. They teamed up with Scandinavian furniture manufacturer Montana, all of whose furniture is created with wood from local suppliers that reforest as they harvest, and decorated the entire house in more colour than you migh expect from such eco-conscious ambitions. In this issue we admire the results while also looking at some small steps that we can take to avoid plastic. Also in these pages we look at kitchen trends, at colour and at the increasingly maximalist aesthetics that are emerging in the wake of years of sober minimalism. Here's to a colourful autumn.
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CHISEL AND MOUSE The world' most beautiful architectural models page 74
CHRISTOPHER FARR CLOTH A new collection based on classic designs by Anni Albers page 20
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MOSHI MOSHI MIND
Welcoming the Danish lifestyle brand to London with its fusion of comfort and style. page 27
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PENDLE HARTE EDITOR
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QUINTON CHADWICK Are you wearing gloves yet? We are. Especially these ones. page 28
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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY
H E L E N B R OW N
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knitte d j u ng le J.Crew has teamed up with Demylee™ to create a 25-piece capsule collection full of quirky-cool styles that are perfect for right now. We want it all; from £59.50 jcrew.com
A BUCKET LOAD Chloe’s latest iteration of the bucket bag is a perfect example of how the brand can take a classic and turn it into something special. The drawstring design will keep your belongings safe and sound; £2,090. farfetch.com
SOLDIER ON Joseph's Pre-Fall '18 collection is splashed with military-inspired shades of green that look chic with neutrals. These Den trousers are made from buttery leather and fit flawlessly; £895. net-a-porter.com
FUSION FASHION
It’s the cool, unconventional aspect of Sacai’s collections that keep us coming back season after season. This quirky hybrid blazer-cummilitary jacket epitomise the brand’s impeccable craftsmanship; £1,455. net-a-porter.com
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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES
PARTY PIECES For SS19 Edeline Lee experiments with ruching and ruffles to soften tailored shapes. The signature Flou Bubble Jacquard fabric is represented in scarlet, ivory and bottle green, perfect for the festive season. edelinelee.com
SKIN THING The Clark’s Botanicals Retinol Face Serum promises to revitalise complexion, condition, moisturise and fight free radical damage. Even better, it’s cruelty-free and vegan friendly; £89. spaceNK.com
EDITOR’S PICK
SNAP SHOT
The latest incarnation of the Leica Q camera has been crafted in partnership with iconic luggage makers, GlobeTrotter. With a 24 million pixel sensor and high-performance lens, your holiday snaps are set to get a whole lot better; £5,400. Available in select Leica stores.
A PRETTY PENNY
RE/DONE has collaborated with G.H. Bass to update its 'Weejuns' penny loafers - an iconic shoe worn by the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. We love the leopard print Whitney pair teamed with cropped jeans; £310. net-a-porter.com
EMERALD CITY
Missoma is the jewellery brand of the moment with a range of effortlessly stylish pieces that add an edge to any outfit. The hexagons in the Rhea Malachite Studs symbolise strength, communication and harmony; £69. missoma.com
WILD CHILD
The latest collection from the London Tea Dress Company features Rizzo, a gorgeous new midi-length shirt dress in the brand’s iconic leopard print. Perfect with boots and a chunky knit; £165. londonteadresscompany.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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ORIGINAL, LIMITED-EDITION ART DECO POSTERS
Limited to editions of 280, our newly-commissioned Art Deco posters feature glamorous holiday destinations around the world, ski resorts in the Austrian, French and Swiss Alps, and the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Over 100 designs to choose from, all printed on 100% cotton fine art paper, measuring 97 x 65 cms.
Priced at £395 each.
Private commissions are also welcome.
Pullman Editions Ltd 94 Pimlico Road Chelsea London SW1W 8PL www.pullmaneditions.com Tel: +44 (0)20 7730 0547 Email: georgina@pullmaneditions.com
Our central London gallery
All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions Ltd. 2018
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C U LT U R E Cold War - A New Hope, Miss Bugs; courtesy of The Gallery at 10 Hanover
What’s On 16 • Ice Rinks 19 • Anni Albers at Tate Modern 20 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The Agenda
LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S
T H E AT R E
The Selfish Giant From 28 November OMN IBUS THEAT RE
Step into a theatrical word where giants are your neighbours and a once-beautiful garden is stuck in everlasting winter. This enchanting new adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s celebrated short story The Selfish Giant uses spell-binding puppetry, original music and a sprinkling of festive magic. 1 Clapham Common, SW4; omnibus-clapham.org
T H E AT R E
THE EXORCISM
Chekhov
3 0 O C TO B E R - 3 NOV E MBE R • BAT TE RSEA ARTS CEN TRE
31 October - 10 November
Writer of Stand By for Tape Back-Up and Missing Episode on BBC Two, Ross Sutherland is one of the most exciting artists around. In his brand new ghost story, The Exorcism, the Vatican believes that the best way to understand a haunting is to approach it like a work of art. The role of the exorcist is therefore simple: we must be the most vicious art critic imaginable...
BAT TERSEA ARTS CENT RE
Lavender Hill, SW11; bac.org.uk
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T H E AT R E
During the turmoil of the Russian Revolution in 1917, Maria Chekhov placed many of her late brother’s manuscripts and papers in a safety deposit box in Moscow. In 1921 Soviet scholars opened the box and discovered a play. Following the critically acclaimed Lippy (Young Vic), Dead Centre present this deconstructed take on Chekhov's First Play exploring the essence of Chekhov and performance itself. Lavender Hill, SW11; bac.org.uk
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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS
T H E AT R E
DIRTY DANCING 19-24 November N EW WIMBLEDON THEATRE
Exploding with heart-pounding music, breathtaking emotion and sensationally sexy choreography, Dirty Dancing is back to tell the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives. Expect 35 hit songs, including Hungry Eyes, Hey Baby, Do You Love Me? and the heart stopping (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life. 93 The Broadway, SW19; atgtickets.com
Around Town MUS I C
EFG JAZZ FESTIVAL 16-25 November VARIOUS LOCAT IONS
The EFG London Jazz Festival returns for a 10-day extravaganza of concerts, events and performances. Expect to see the full range of heavyweight musical talent from across the globe, with the festival’s usual mixture of jazz masters, along with cutting-edge young bands and emerging British stars. efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk
EX HIBITION
GARY STINTON: STUDIES Until 10 November J O N ATH A N CO O P E R
This Month’s Must See
Gary Stinton’s magnificent pastel portraits of snow leopards, tigers, and other big cats are instantly recognisable and never fail to amaze. Frequently life size and technically brilliant, they masterfully portray the beauty and power of their subject, and are collected worldwide. Gary Stinton: Studies will include new works in pastel and charcoal, offering lovers of wildlife art a rare insight into the creative process of one of the leading artists in the field. 20 Park Walk, SW10; jonathancooper.co.uk
A RT
LONDON ART WEEK 29 November - 7 December VARIOUS LOCAT IONS
THE WIDER EARTH O NGO I NG • N ATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
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efore Darwin changed the world, one voyage changed his life. In A Wider Earth, a cast of just seven tell the tale of a young Charles Darwin as he sets off on a daring voyage via remarkable puppetry, an original score and cinematic animations. Cromwell Road, SW7;
London Art Week returns with Salons for Winter 2018, combining special selling exhibitions and auctions with one-off events, discussions and talks that will explore 5,000 years of fine art. From ancient sculptures to Old Master drawings, it offers visitors the chance to see and buy extraordinary works with experienced dealers on hand and delighted to share their knowledge and expertise. londonartweek.co.uk
EV E N T
BONFIRE NIGHT IN LONDON 5 November VARIOUS LOCAT IONS
Celebrate Bonfire Night in style at one of many spectacular London fireworks displays. These days fireworks come with dodgems, laser shows and an unbeatable musical playlist. A few to make note of are the displays at Alexandra Palace, Victoria Park and Battersea Park. Various locations
nam.ac.uk
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CULTURE • THEATRE
ROUND UP
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Rink
SIDE
There is nothing more festive than a glittering evening on ice. Here’s where you can get your skates on in the city By H E L E N B R O W N
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
SKY LIGHT
22 NOVEMBER • 6 JANUARY
No ice rink round-up would be complete without Hyde Park’s gigantic tribute to festive frivolity, Winter Wonderland. This extraordinary annual gathering of winter stalls, markets, food and fun boasts the UK’s largest ice rink. Raymond Briggs’ beloved The Snowman will also be celebrated with a immersive sensory cinematic experience. Hyde Park, W2; hydeparkwinterwonderland.com
Natural History Museum 25 OCTOBER • 6 JANUARY
Glide around beneath the twinkling lights of an impressive 30ft Christmas tree and marvel at one of London’s most breathtaking buildings. The Natural History Museum provides a dramatic skate setting, especially when lit up at night. Cromwell Road, SW7; nhmskating.com
Skylight 1 NOVEMBER • 27 JANUARY
Skylight will be transporting guests to a wintry wonderland high above the city with cosy igloos and Europe’s only rooftop ice rink. Heated après skate bars will be serving mulled wine and a delicious array of winter cocktails, while Raclette Brothers will be joining the street food team to warm skaters with bowls of molten cheesy goodness. Pennington Street, Car Park Entrance, E1; skylightlondon.com
welcomes visitors with a 40ft Christmas tree and offers skating for all ages. Cosy up post-skate in the Fortnum & Mason Lodge and indulge in a spot of rinkside festive shopping at the Christmas Arcade. Strand, WC2R; somersethouse.org.uk
HYDE PARK
Hampton Court Palace 23 NOVEMBER • 6 JANUARY
The historic home of Henry VIII offers one of the most scenic skate experiences this festive season. The ice rink at Hampton Court Palace will transport visitors back to 1906 where the palace community are preparing for a Christmas to remember. Molesey, East Molesey, KT8; hrp.org.uk
SOMERSET HOUSE
Skate at Somerset House 14 NOVEMBER • 13 JANUARY
The stately surrounds of Somerset House have once again been transformed into the ultimate winter destination for stylish skating and gourmet dining. Skate at Somerset House with Fortnum & Mason
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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ARTS & CULTURE • FOCUS
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ate Modern is showing the UK’s first major retrospective of the work of Anni Albers (1899–1994), bringing together her most important works from major collections in the US and Europe to highlight Albers’s significance as an artist. Opening ahead of the centenary of the Bauhaus in 2019, this exhibition is a long overdue recognition of Albers’s pivotal contribution to modern art and design. Anni Albers combined the ancient craft of hand-weaving with the language of modern art, finding within the medium many possibilities for the expression of modern life. Featuring over 350 objects including beautiful small-scale studies, large wall-hangings, jewellery made from everyday items and textiles designed for mass production, the exhibition will explore the many aspects of Albers’s practice, such as the intersection between art and craft;
hand-weaving and machine production; ancient and modern. Albers held a longstanding interest in the relationship between textiles and architecture and the show will highlight her lesser-known commissioned works in this area. Born in Berlin at the turn of the century, Annelise Else Frieda Fleischmann became a student at the Bauhaus in 1922, where she met her husband Josef Albers and other key modernist figures like Wassily Kandinsky and Paul Klee. Though the Bauhaus aspired to equality between the sexes, women were still discouraged from learning certain disciplines including painting. Albers began weaving by default, but it was in textiles that she found her means of expression, dedicating herself to the medium for the majority of her
career. This exhibition explores how, here in the school’s vibrant weaving workshop, traditional hand-weaving was redefined as modern art. With the rise of Nazism and the closure of the Bauhaus, Albers left Germany in 1933 for the USA where she taught at the experimental Black Mountain College for over 15 years. From this time on she made frequent visits to Mexico, Chile and Peru, collecting artefacts and immersing herself in an ancient culture that profoundly influenced her career. The show will examine her incredible body of woven works of art known as ‘pictorial weavings’, inspired by her many visits to Central and South America, including significant largescale pieces such as Ancient Writing 1936 and With Verticals 1946. In the 1950s Albers moved to New Haven in Connecticut following her husband’s appointment to the Department of Design at Yale University. During this time she published the seminal texts ‘On Designing’ 1959 and ‘On Weaving’ 1965 – in which she reflects on the history of weaving as a global phenomenon, dating back thousands of years yet typically modern. In both her work and her writing, she presents a vastly expanded geography of modern art, drawing on sources from Africa, Asia and the Americas. In her later years Albers also took up printmaking, translating her ideas into two-dimensional form. Featuring a range of remarkable loans from The Josef & Anni Albers Foundation, Tate Modern’s show will include many of these groundbreaking late works, revealing her constant development as a highly original abstract artist whose enduring influence inspires new generations of artists and designers around the world. ANNI ALBERS
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ontinuing to explore the ground-breaking design archives of Anni Albers in an ongoing collaboration with the Josef and Anni Albers foundation, Christopher Farr Cloth have created two new printed designs. Orchestra is drawn from a series of works with the same title, inspired by Anni’s visits to the Berlin Opera as a child in the 1920s. The shapes and colours evoke the instruments tuning up, the elegant velvet and lace dresses of the women attending the performance, and other memories. Temple is developed from a study for the Ark panels to hang in the Jewish Temple Emanu-El, Dallas in 1956. The large scale geometric pattern was created by painting stripes across a fabric, cutting them into vertical strips and changing their alignment. Orchestra and Temple are both screen printed at Farr’s artisan print house in London on to pure Belgian linen. christopherfarr.eu
TO JANUARY 2019 tate.org
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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THE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TRADITION FOR ALL THE FAMILY
NU TC R AC KE R
THE SUNDAY EXPRESS
BOOK NOW
13 – 30 DEC 2018 ballet.org.uk/nutcracker
Children go half-price!*
*T&Cs apply. Transaction fee may apply: Max £6. Dancer: Shiori Kase. Photo Jason Bell. Art Direction and Design: Charlotte Wilkinson Studio
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Registered Charity 214005
24/10/2018 14:47 7/13/2018 6:04:12 PM
CULTURE • THEATRE
ROUND UP
Best in
SHOW
Get the most out of London’s theatre scene with our top stage picks for the month By H E L E N B R O W N
MUST SEE
A Pupil
True West
★★★★★
★★★★★
31 October - 24 November
From 23 November
PARK THEATRE
In a dilapidated North London bedsit, Ye, a disgraced violinist is preparing to kill herself. The surprise arrival of Simona, an aspiring musician and wealthy heiress, throws her plans into disarray. Together the pair embark on a series of lessons that will test the limits of friendship, music, and success. Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, N4; parktheatre.co.uk
VAUDEVILLE THEATRE
Kit Harington and Johnny Flynn take up two of the most challenging and soughtafter roles in modern drama as True West from Pulitzer Prize-winner, Sam Shepard, makes its West End premiere. Set in the searing heat of the Californian desert, Harington and Flynn star as the warring brothers tearing their family apart. 404 Strand, WC2R; truewestlondon.com
A PUPIL TRUE WEST
I And You
Hadestown
From 18 October
From 2 November
HAMPSTEAD THEATRE
OLIVIER THEATRE
Game of Thrones star Maisie Williams makes her stage debut in I and You as Caroline who, housebound due to illness, is confined to her room with only Facebook for company. That is until classmate Anthony bursts in – uninvited and armed with waffle fries. An unlikely friendship develops and a seemingly mundane piece of homework reveals the pair’s hopes and dreams. Eton Avenue, NW3; hampsteadtheatre.com
In the warmth of summertime, songwriter Orpheus and his muse Eurydice are living it up and falling in love. But as winter approaches, reality sets in: they can’t survive on songs alone. Celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin have transformed Mitchell’s acclaimed concept album into a genredefying new musical. National Theatre, Lambeth, SE1; national theatre.org.uk
★★★★★
★★★★★
Caroline, or Change ★★★★★
From 20 November PLAYHOUSE THEATRE
The five-star, Olivier award-winning musical Caroline, or Change transfers to the West End following sell-out runs at the Chichester Festival and Hampstead Theatre. A playful, funny and deeply moving tale, it follows a poorly paid maid toiling away in the basement of the Gellman household while the revolution of 1963 rumbles around her. Northumberland Avenue, WC2N; carolineorchange.co.uk
HADESTOWN
CAROLINE, OR CHANGE
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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION
Christmas made
EASY WITH LEITHS
It's two birds, one stone with Leiths' Christmas recipes and gift ideas HANDS-ON C O O K E RY C L A S S E S
C
ooking Christmas dinner can be stressful - you’re feeding a lot of people, you need to get your timings right, and there’s a lot to juggle. We hear you - and that’s why we’ve come up with a simple yet comprehensive plan to help cooks delight their guests without feeling frazzled. Our step-by-step time plan will take you from grocery list to dinner table as you cook roast turkey with a citrus and herb stuffing, honey glazed carrots, Brussels sprouts with pancetta and chestnuts, red cabbage with cranberry and pomegranate, and Leiths special roast potatoes. These colourful dishes have been hand-picked by our teachers (the very same teachers who lead our famous Diploma in Food and Wine) as the easiest crowd pleasers. You can find the guide online now at Leiths.com/Christmas.
H O L D YO U R E V E N T AT L E I T H S Searching for a memorable Christmas party idea? Whether you plan to entertain clients, bond with colleagues or enjoy a special evening with friends and family, we offer a range of bespoke private cookery parties. Learn professional tips and tricks as you cook a gourmet seasonal menu, then sit down to enjoy your creations with wines from Louis Latour. With one teacher to every eight guests, we’ll make sure everyone has an amazing time. Visit Leiths.com/ corporate to find out more.
Brush up on your culinary skills before the hoards arrive. We run a wide range of pre-Christmas classes at our warm, friendly cookery school in west London. Try Christmas Entertaining (8th Dec), Gluten Free Christmas Baking with Adriana Rabinovich (4th Dec) or Modern Vegetarian Christmas Entertaining (10th Dec). Join guest chef Ursula Ferrigno for an Italian Christmas (11th Dec) or learn to make inventive, Asian-inspired Christmas canapés with Jennifer Joyce (14th Dec). It’s a lovely thing to do with a friend as you wind down for Christmas. You could even send your partner on How to Cook: The Perfect Christmas Dinner (1st Dec), so they cook while you put your feet up. It’s worth a try...
Perfect presents Do you have a food-loving friend or family member? The kind who loves to watch every cookery show and try every new restaurant? If so, they’ll relish a gift from Leiths. We run more than 400 different cookery classes each year, from Peruvian street food to classic knife skills, and with a Leiths gift voucher in hand, they can choose
their favourite. We also sell professional knife sets in Carbon or Damascus steel, along with our iconic cookbooks. A Leiths cookery book is an investment for life; filled with timeless recipes and clear, practical skills guides, they sit on the shelves of many an accomplished chef. Visit Leiths.com.
WIN! Win a cookery class at Leiths for you and a friend worth £310! To enter, simply visit Leiths.com/Christmas and sign up to our email newsletter. The competition closes on 31st December, and terms and conditions apply.
0208 749 6400 • Leiths.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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IF YOU DON’T LOOK GOOD | WE DON’T LOOK GOOD
FOR YOUR NEAREST SALON VISIT WWW.SASSOON-SALON.COM
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FASHION
GREAT DANES MOSHI MOSHI MIND
Danish brand Moshi Moshi Mind has brought its collection of mindful fashion to Westbourne Grove as its first foray into the UK. Each style is carefully designed to take you from yoga class to dinner with its simple, functional yet stylish shapes and fabrics. These are dubbed: “products for a mellow modern lifestyle.” moshimoshimind.co.uk
Jewellery: Michael Platt 30 · The shoot: Madeleine Thompson 32 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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JESS AND JANE
Q&A
Knit WITS
Jess Quinton and Jane Chadwick produce unique contemporary knitwear. Absolutely quizzes them I n t e r v i e w PENDLE HARTE
Q TWEED BLOCK SCARF IN FOLIAGE, £80
uinton Chadwick are by-words for modern idiosyncratic English styling and quality British production. Their quirky accessories are now stocked in the best boutiques and concept stores around the world. Attention to detail in their design aesthetic is not enough: they also hunt out the highest quality yarns in order to satisfy their own unique take on colour and texture. Both designers have textile, as well as fashion, backgrounds. Jess worked for Italian fashion house Missoni after graduating from the RCA and Jane ran her own label and forecast consultancy developing Smart yarns (such as Tencel and Tactel) with the IWS and Dupont.
Q Your brand is known for its bold, graphic patterns. How did that come about ? A We both trained as textile and fashion
“Formica was inspired by 1950s signage, early plastics and melamine” 28
TWEED BLOCK SCARF IN NORDIC, £80
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FASHION • Q&A FROM THE EARTH COLLECTION
TWEED BLANKET SCARF IN NORDIC, £160
designers so pattern, colour and texture, have been life long obsessions. Jess worked for Missoni after leaving the RCA and this experience taught her the importance of balancing colour in design. We have since developed a signature style at Quinton Chadwick which is a contemporary bold take on traditional patterns.
Q You have collaborated widely in the past with a variety of brands. What’s next? A We have designed for clients diverse as Dashing Tweeds bespoke menswear and Tate Modern gallery shops. We are currently working with a big museum in the USA…
Q How did you meet ? A We met through mutual clients when we
Q Can you describe your design aesthetic? A Modern Heritage or Traditional Modernist, but this depends on our mood! We use timehonoured methods of manufacture in a new way, making something modern but using traditional skills.
were both working on the same projects as freelance designers in the fashion industry. Q Your ethos is very much about British
manufacture. How do you make that work? A We are proud to use only small family-run British factories as we want to help preserve heritage skills and the craftsmanship of the knitting and textile industry in the UK. We would never use mass production because for us provenance is everything and has become our brand USP. Where possible we hand-finish our knits here in our London studio, and we believe our customers really appreciate this attention to detail.
Q Why wool? A We are passionate about ethical fashion
and use only natural fibres like wool which is completely biodegradable and sustainable and causes no harm to the environment. It is also waterproof because of the natural oils. Q The new collection has interesting categories. Earth, Formica, Foliage,
Nordic. Can you tell us about them? A We find inspiration from so many different sources. This season we looked at Nordic Knits and bold primary colours adding a contemporary twist on these traditional patterns. For Foliage we were inspired by nature – particularly botanical gardens, while Formica was inspired by 1950s kitchen equipment, signage, early plastics and melamine colours. For Earth we looked at ceramic tiles and subtle burnt earthy tones like ochre, dusky pinks and rust. quintonchadwick.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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n ow OPEN
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Se rv i ces w e s p ec i ali s e i n: Face and body •Laser hair removal •Skin tightening
•Medical facials •Injectables
•Skin peels 0208 767 3888 | 0751 836 7219 7 Upper Tooting | Tooting Bec | SW17 7TS 5AVECLINIC.indd 2
5thavenueclinic.co.uk clinic@5thavenueclinic.co.uk 21/03/2018 16:41
ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION
BESPOKE JEWELLERY S PA R K L E F O R C H R I S T M A S Bespoke gifting from Michael Platt
D
o you love surprising your nearest and dearest with special memorable gifts? Then consider having bespoke jewellery made. It is far easier to achieve than you imagine and satisfying to see the joy when giving the gift. Michael Platt, Goldsmith and Jewellers in Wimbledon Village, specialise in working directly with clients to create bespoke jewellery from new or worn, dated or inherited jewels.
Having something unique that no one else has is exceptional The process begins with an informal chat and an exchange of ideas and preferences. On the return visit, customers are presented with a selection of hand-drawn or computer-designed ideas to choose from and a variety of gorgeous gemstones or diamonds to select from. Michael Platt encourages clients to be involved at every stage. Traditional hand-crafted methods are used in their in-store workshop starting with hand-carving the piece in wax, for casting in the chosen metal. Once the item is formed, it will be quite ‘rough.’ It is cleaned, refined and polished. The final workshop process, before being hallmarked by the London Assay Office, is the setting of stones - a fine, delicate and precise process. Having something unique that no one else has is exceptional. If you would like a bespoke piece of jewellery for yourself or for someone special, visit us at Michael Platt. The time scale for creating a piece of bespoke jewellery, depending on the
complexity and following agreement of design, is approximately four to six weeks - just enough time for Christmas delivery! There is no charge for an initial consultation or sketched drawings. With just a little extra thought and effort, along with expert professional input from Michael Platt, an outstanding brilliant piece of jewellery can be created; a future family heirloom to pass on. M I C H A E L P L AT T 1 Church Road, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5DW, 020 89474772 michaelplatt.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Rosalind top (ÂŁ295) stockist Mojo and MCCOY Elara pant (ÂŁ295) stockist madeleine-thompson.com
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Soft MACHINE The new seaon's knitwear is stripy and colourful with a serious retro vibe m a d e l e i n e - t h o m p s o n . co m P h o t o g ra p h e r MARIE NOORBERGEN S t y l i s t I SA B E L L E SAU BA D U
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Kamino cardigan (ÂŁ474) stockist modaoperandi.com; Kessel pant (ÂŁ320) stockist madeleine-thompson.com
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Ida top (£295); Jedha cardigan (£350); Eris pant (£295) stockist net-a-porter.com
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Bianca Cardigan (£350); Kessel pant (£320); Yavin headband (£99) stockist madeleine-thompson.com
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FASHION • Q&A
Q&A
Fashion
S P OT LI G H T
Ahead of its 15th anniversary, we spoke to Catherine Aubert at Amélie’s Follies on the success of the south London lingerie shop By H E L E N B R O W N
Q How do you go about choosing the brands you stock? A First and foremost, we look at the fit and size range of a brand. It is very important to us that the fit of a bra or swimsuit is on point, but also crucial that we can offer these in as wide a size range as possible. We don’t like to say to a customer that something doesn’t come in her size. We stock bras in A to J cup, but our core sizes are D to G because that is what our customers are. Q How do you promote body positivity? A Women are extremely self critical
and they have a tendency to compare themselves to their younger self or to the unrealistic bodies we see in the media. We try and guide them towards products that will flatter their size, body shape and lifestyle all the while forgetting about what it says on the label. Nobody ever says to someone: you look great, what size are you wearing? We also have different size models in our windows and try to encourage brands to meet the demand for more diversity in their advertising campaign. Q What do you love about being in south west London? A Being in south London we get the best of both worlds. We benefit from a constant influx of new customers who come to London for work or
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love, but we also have a strong following of regulars, some of whom have been shopping with us for 15 years. We can look after up to three generations of women in some families. And we love this feeling of belonging to a community. Q What do you think are the most important things to consider before purchasing new lingerie? A It’s very important to realise your bra size changes throughout your life. Puberty,
“We love belonging to a community”
contraception, pregnancy, breast feeding, menopause, weight loss/gain are just a few of the many factors that will affect your breasts, so don’t get hung up on a size. By wearing the right size, you will look and feel better no matter what it says on the label. Q What exciting things have you got coming up over the next few months? A We are celebrating 15 years of trading on the 9th and 10th November, which we are very proud of. Then we look forward to helping as many men as possible get the perfect Christmas present for them to enjoy with their partner. We are also looking forward to bringing our customers new brands in the spring so that they have an even better offering of lingerie and swimwear to choose from.
AMÉLIE'S FOLLIES 34 Webb’s Road, SW11; ameliesfollies.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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Fine Bespoke Jewellery
Make a Wish
Fine Paraiba Tourmaline and Diamond Rings
Gems to
Impress
Bespoke Fine Jewellery Designed & Hand-Crafted in-store by Master Goldsmiths An exceptional Personalised Service for New, Dated or Inherited Jewellery Complex Restoration Work & Valuations undertaken
www.michaelplatt.co.uk
Goldsmith & Jeweller in Wimbledon Village 1 Church Road | Wimbledon Village | London | SW19 5DW Tel. 020 8947 4772 | info@michaelplatt.co.uk
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
HAIR TODAY
ANTHONY LABAN Anthony Laban Home is a boutique salon, a chic and stylish environment based in a courtyard offering revolutionary new techniques to achieve gorgeous hair. anthonylabanhome.com
Beauty Notes 43 • Autumn beauty favourites 45 • Fitness Notes 49 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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BEAUTY
HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES
E X P E RT A DV I C E
NOTES
New UK launches, winter skin saviours and seasonal scents B y H E L E N B R OW N
EDITOR’S PICK
LUNCH PARTY DRUNK ELEPHANT
From Fenty Beauty to Glossier US-based beauty brands are swarming UK shelfs. The latest launch comes from Drunk Elephant and if Instagram is to be used as a litmus test, this is one to be very excited about. Everything is high-tech and free from harmful chemicals. drunkelephant.com
WINTER SKIN SAVIOUR 3LAB
While the nights draw in and the days grow chilly, an all around multitasker becomes a skincare non-negotiable. Enter, the WW DAY SPF 40 from 3LAB. It improves fine lines, brightens, tightens and protects the skin against environmental stressors. 3LAB WW Day SPF40 £320; fortnumandmason.com
FESTIVE FRAGRANCE JURLIQUE
Infused with tangerine, a sweet botanical blend and potent natural antioxidants, Jurlique’s limited edition mist smells divine while giving the skin a brilliant boost of hydration. Just what the doctor ordered as the wintery weather creeps in. Hydrating Mist, £24;
Foot Solutions
S
Choosing the perfect shoe...
tylish shoes make us feel good, but ill-fitting footwear can lead to painful conditions like bunions, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis and even arthritis. Follow these top tips from Foot Solutions for shoes that are both stylish and supportive. SIZE MAT TERS It’s not unusual for one foot to be bigger than the other. Shoes need to accommodate the larger foot and should be a thumb’s width longer than the longest toe. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY Before purchasing new shoes, always walk in them on a hard surface. FIRST IMPRE SSI ONS COUNT Shoes shouldn’t need ‘breaking in’. If they don’t feel comfortable to start with, they’re unlikely ever to. SHAPE UP The shape of the shoe should match the general shape of the foot. DON’ T POINT Forcing feet into constricted, pointed shoes is asking for trouble. There should always be ‘wiggle room’. BE FIRM Quality shoes should be firm and supportive. If you can twist the shoes at the ‘waist’, don’t buy them. IF THE CUP FITS … A good shoe should have a stiff heel cup that keeps the foot in a comfortable, secure position. F O OT S O L U T I O N S 4 Red Lion St, Richmond TW9, 020 8940 1814
footsolutionsrichmond.co.uk
jurlique.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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3 Bennet Court, 1 Bellevue Road, London SW17 7EG
020 3475 6644 • anthonylabanhome.com
For latest news & offers join us @LabanHome
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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND
CHANTECAILLE
MARC JACOBS BEAUTY
Mermaid Eye Color Hematite, £29 harrods.com
Fragrances: Sensuel, Lumiere and Tendre, £910 harrods.com
Enamored Hi-Shine Lip Lacquer - Shine a Light, £22 marcjacobsbeauty.com
MARC JACOBS BEAUTY See-quins Glam Glitter Eyeshadow - Blitz Glitz 92, £21 marcjacobsbeauty.com
ESTEE LAUDER Crystal Lash Top Coat Mascara, £21 esteelauder.co.uk
SPARKS WILL FLY Get ready to dazzle this Bonfire Night with these fiery statement products
ZOEVA
Opulence Collection: Eyeshadow Palette, Blush Palette and Vegan Brush Set, £98 zoevacosmetics.com
LALIQUE: MON PREMIER CRISTAL BLOOMING
B y A N G I E KO L E C I
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN BEAUTY Loubilaque Lip Lacquer Casanovella, £65 eu.christianlouboutin.com
HUDA BEAUTY Lip Strobe - Saucey, £17 harrods.com
EDITOR’S PICK
HUDA BEAUTY Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette - Amethyst, £25 harrods.com
SMITH & CULT Nail Polish - Shattered Souls, £19 smithandcult.com
HOURGLASS Ambient Lighting Bronzer Luminous Bronze Light, £45 selfridges.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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can’t sleep?
18
night
6
12
Younger looking and resilient skin starts with a good night’s sleep
89% FELL ASLEEP FASTER THAN NORMAL* 96% HAD LESS DISTURBED SLEEP** VISIT US AT JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS KINGSTON FOR A COMPLIMENTARY BODYCLOCK FACIAL
TM
*In a study of 100 subjects and 100 ex-prescription users compared to no product. **Independently tested on 200 participants with sleep problems aged 18+ over a 14 day period compared to a placebo.
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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION
DR SAM AFSHAR
4. TEMPORARIES
After teeth are prepared temporaries are placed that replicate the 3D model exactly. You can trial the proposed model before anything is finalised. 5 . F I T T I N G YO U R F U L L MOUTH RECONSTRUCTION
A master ceramist duplicates the smile design and function (from the temporaries and 3D model) in the final restorations and adds the fine colour, surface anatomy and texture to bring your new full mouth reconstruction to life.
P E A R LY WHITES Discover the life-changing potential of full mouth reconstruction
What is a full mouth reconstruction? When you have broken, worn and/ or multiple missing teeth, then a full mouth reconstruction may be required. This will often require every tooth to be restored with a combination of veneers, crowns, inlays, onlays, dental implants and dental bridgework. What does full mouth reconstruction involve? The key to a successful full mouth reconstruction is planning. Here's how it’s done: 1 . E X A M I N AT I O N
A thorough examination of the teeth, gums, supporting bone, muscles and jaw joint is essential. The latest
technology helps us identify and explain what dentistry is required and why. Digital photography, joint and bite analysis are crucial to plan and communicate your treatment needs. 2. COMPUTER AIDED SMILE DESIGN
It’s vital that your full mouth reconstruction not only functions perfectly but looks great. The latest in computer-aided smile design technology allows us to discuss and show you the aesthetic outcome before work starts.
Full mouth rehabilitation is different from a full smile makeover in that it is a necessary procedure. It involves restoring every tooth in a person’s mouth with the primary goal of improving oral health. Ideal candidates may relate to one or more of the following: TMJ syndrome, consistent headaches or migraines, clicking in the jaw, missing teeth, worn, broken, cracked, or chipped teeth or crooked teeth. While a full mouth rehabilitation is not technically a cosmetic procedure, Art of Dentistry Institute focuses on both the beauty and function of every treatment. Tooth-coloured fillings and porcelain crowns are just a couple of cosmetic dental treatment options that ensure a more vibrant, natural-looking result. Persistent headaches or migraines can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. A full mouth rehabilitation will address these concerns and alleviate headaches. Gum disease is another issue addressed with full mouth rehabilitation to ensure that the reconstructed teeth have a healthy foundation. D R SA M A F S H A R D D S M S C
3. 3D PREVIEW
Detailed impressions and bite records allow us to transform the imaging picture into a 3D model that you can pick up and examine.
BENEFITS OF FULL MOUTH R E H A B I L I TAT I O N
THE TRANSFORMATION
Principal Putney Dentists; 2a Dealtry Road, SW15 6NL 020 8785 6772 putneydentists.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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UK’S NO.1 FITNESS EQUIPMENT RETAILER EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO CREATE YOUR DREAM GYM
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equipment is covered. With thousands of high quality products to browse in-store or online, Fitness Superstore can offer both the products and the premium service you need to create your dream workout space.
Fitness Superstore – the UK’s largest supplier of specialist home and commercial fitness equipment – offers an unrivalled selection of fitness equipment from the world’s leading brands. Treadmills, cross trainers, rowers, multi-gyms, weights – the full spectrum of fitness and strength
Need a consultation? Fitness Superstore offers trusted advice, thanks to our professional sales advisors, many of whom are personal trainers themselves. Pop into one of our 10 UK stores for advice and to try the equipment for yourself, or have a browse at over 200,000 products online.
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Call 0203 3708 856 or visit fitness-superstore.co.uk *T’s & C’s apply, see website for more details. Code expires October 14th 2018. Price may vary, please see website for current prices.
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HEALTH & BEAUTY • ACTIVE
FITNESS NOTES
Compiled by H E L E N B R O W N
BRAND PROFILE
S I LO U
RECIPE
WINTER WA R M E R
London
WHAT IS IT?
V
ilou London was founded by former Victoria Secret’s Angel Tatiana Kovylina in 2017. Due to her travel-heavy lifestyle as a model she valued style as much as impeccable design, comfort and quality. Silou was created with this in mind and is intended for the everyday women to tackle life, work and everything in between.
egan and packed with protein and antioxidants, this super creamy high-protein hot chocolate is the perfect winter treat.
S
INGREDIENTS • 1 can coconut milk • 2 tbsp raw cacoa powder • 2 tbsp chocolate protein powder • 200 ml water • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
WHY IS IT FOR YOU?
atiana is a strong believer in the empowerment of the female form, which is why Silou was designed to fit and flatter all women and all Silou-ettes. The brand is very proud of their social consciousness and pride themselves in being both socially and environmentally responsible at all times.
T
WHAT’S NEW?
his month sees the launch of Silou’s resort 2019 collection, a stylish new line designed to embody the spirit of the French Riviera. Think contrasting burnt apple and nude hues combined with Riviera classics black and white. Each piece is a perfect workout staple and ideal for travelling in style.
T
Price range from £79 to £229 siloulondon.com
METHOD
FLEXIBLE FITNESS Rachel Avery discovers the coolest classes in London with MoveGB
W
By R AC H E L AV E R Y
hatever your fitness thing is, you can find a class in London. Is your soul set alight by spinning or are you a hardcore HIIT fan? You might even be partial to a fitness class with your dog (yes, that really is a thing). However, if like us you like to try a bit of everything, MoveGB could be your keep fit saviour. It’s a clever membership that gives you access to leisure centres and fitness classes across the capital. Meaning one day you can try boxercise and the next you can be booking in for acqua-fit, all via a speedy app. I decided to explore what’s on around my home in west London. Despite being horrendously inflexible, yoga is my current
obsession so I booked in for a Hot Pod Yoga session near Notting Hill. It does what it says on the tin; it’s yoga and it’s rather hot. But the lovely teacher guided us through the moves and we all survived the class. I also tried Corner House Yoga; half cafe, half studio it’s the perfect place to check-in for a stretching session followed by a spot of brunch. Other classes on offer include bootcamp, reformer pilates, circuits, zumba and even circus skills sessions (which are amazing by the way!) The only question is, which will you try first?
MOVEGB Use one membership to get access to 1,000s of fitness activities across London. More information at movegb.com
1 In a pan, combine the water and coconut milk until hot but not boiling. 2 Add the protein powder and stir well until all combined. 3 Add the cacoa powder and vanilla extract and stir well until all combined. 4 Serve hot and enjoy.
3 of the B E ST Chocolate protein powders HEALTHISTA Lean Vegan Diet Protein, £24.99; wholefoodsmarket.com
MISSFITS Vegan Protein Multitasker, £18; missfitsnutrition.com
HER FREE SOUL Hero Vegan Protein Blend, £24; herfreesoul.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR HEALTH
WHY WAIT?
We offer Fixed Price Packages for a range of Health Conditions • Hip and knee replacements • Cataracts and other eye conditions • Women’s and men’s health
At Parkside Hospital in Wimbledon, as a Self-Pay patient you can access specialist care at a time that suits you.
• Cosmetics including varicose veins and breast augmentation surgery We also offer Private GP Surgery, Health Screening, Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine and Diagnostic services.
For a comprehensive list of our procedures and finance options visit: www.parkside-hospital.co.uk
Book your specialist consultation for a
£200 Fixed Fee Call: 020 8971 8008 Email: enquiries@parkside-hospital.co.uk
53 Parkside, Wimbledon, London SW19 5NX
PSH.indd 1
35 YEARS WELCOME TO EXCEPTIONAL HEALTHCARE
27/09/2018 11:59
ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION
ALISON TELFER
days hold for me. The great thing about CoolSculpting™ is that there is no downtime.
THE FIRST FIVE DAYS:
THE
Coolsculpting Diaries
™
I
’ve always eaten well and exercised but there's still those stubborn areas that just refuse to budge. So, when I learned about the amazing benefits of CoolSculpting ™, I was intrigued all-be-it slightly sceptical. Could this none-surgical treatment truly eliminate my fat like it claimed? I decided to document my experience at The Glasshouse Clinic.
CONSULTATION – MAY 2018: Lizzie specialises in body sculpting. She starts by asking me about the areas that concern me the most. Like many women, it's the love handles. The thought of standing in front of a complete stranger as she pinches and evaluates my fatty areas sounds like the stuff of nightmares, but her excitement is so contagious that after
a while I feel nothing but elation. My treatment plan is put together and I'm back in my clothes and walking out the door 30minutes later.
TREATMENT MAY 2018: Each area is treated with 35 minutelong cycle. A thin, gel pad is placed over the lower abdominal area, where the Cool Advantage™ cup will sit. Next, the Cool Advantage™ cup is put on area before suction is applied. I feel some mild discomfort for the first 5-10 minutes. It feels like someone is pinching the area hard, although this disappears and the final 25 minutes are a breeze. Immediately after the treatment, the skin is cold, pink and slightly numb. The massage is the most uncomfortable part of the whole treatment; it’s a strange sensation. I'm excited to see what the next few
“I notice my once snug jeans now fit perfectly ”
We hear how one patient gets on with CoolSculpting™ at The Glasshouse Clinic Wimbledon
The area is slightly tender and sensitive in the first week. The skin is still a little numb on top, but underneath you can feel the magic happening. It feels like I have completed an intense abdominal work out the day before. At times, I experience a weird, tingling feeling that makes me want to scratch the treated areas. I have some swelling afterwards, but this is really and may last for a couple of weeks.
WEEK TWO All the swelling has gone and I feel completely back to normal, I must admit I can’t quite see what is going to happen now or how it is going to happen. Lizzie continues to reassure me to ‘hold tight’ and I will see change as I head towards 12 weeks.
WEEK TWELVE It's time for the review. I notice my once snug jeans now fit perfectly. At the review, Lizzie places my before and after pictures side-by-side. The transformation is much greater than I had anticipated. The love handles I previously loathed have gone and my flanks are nipped in. All in all, quite amazing. In fact, I have recommended my friends to The Glasshouse Clinic. If you too would love to say goodbye to your squidgy bits then get in touch with The Glasshouse Clinic for a complimentary consultation. Quote ‘cool’ for a 10% discount. THE GLASS HOUSE CLINIC 32 High Street, SW19 5BY For more information call 0203 968 0788 or visit theglasshouseclinic.co.uk email wimbledon@theglasshouseclinic.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Located at One Tower Bridge. Prosecco House is London’s fist prosecco-specialist bar. It stocks Prosecco DOCG, from Veneto, the home of the drink, a creation of owner Kristina Issa, bringing the excellence of Italian prosecco to London. Kristina works with small family-owned vineyards, while the bar has over 20 varieties on the menu, hand picked by Kristina herself, from wineries such as Marchiori, Rivalta, Cirotto, Tasi Bio and Andreola.
PROSECCO HOUSE 1 Crown Square One Tower Bridge London, SE1 2SE @proseccohouse ProseccoHouseLondon
PH.indd 2
020 3034 1718 www.proseccohouse.com info@proseccohouse.com
20/06/2018 17:16
FOOD & DRINK
FAMILY FEEDS ARLO'S
Arlo’s is all about fresh and homemade food. Their focus is to source the very best, freshest ingredients and to produce simple, delicious dishes each with their own twist. The proudly independent and family-owned restaurants are worth a visit. arlos.co.uk
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Food Notes 54 • Recipes: Classic Plates from Arlo's 58 • Eating Out 65 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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W H AT TO D R I N K
GRAPE NEWS
TASTING NOTES
London’s food news and most exciting openings this November By FLORA THOMAS
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE MONTH By b e r ry b r os . & r u d d
2016 Berry Bros. & Rudd Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir by Au Bon Climat, California £24.95 This Pinot Noir offers bright red-fruited aromas of raspberries and red cherries, carefully balanced with a juicy ripe core and clove spice, providing the sikly, ripe tanins with additional texture.
2016 Ca'Del Magro, Custoza Superiore, Monte del Fra, Veneto, Italy £14.50 The Ca’del Magro vineyard is over 40 years old which aids the complexity of this thrilling white wine. The palate is fruity with an apple tang and notes of white flowers.
2017 De Martino, Legado Chardonnay, Limari Valley, Chile £13.95 Limarí is the only place with limestone in Chile and this comes across in this energetic Chardonnay. De Martino’s hands- off approach comes through here with a simple aged in 14-year- old barrels.
BERRY BROS. & RUDD Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's.
bbr.com
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Michelin Win HIDE
Ollie Dabbous’s Hide has been awarded a Michelin star less than six months since opening in the heart of Mayfair. A joint venture between Dabbous and Hedonism Wines, Hide is a luxurious setting in which to savour seasonal cooking at its best - complemented by the UK’s most comprehensive wine list. 85 Picadilly, W1J 79B hide.co.uk
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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Truffle Season
T I M E TO TRUFFLE
T H E GA M E B I R D AT T H E STA F F O R D LO N D O N
The Game Bird, having launched in 2017, is renowned for executing classic British dishes with style and elegance. Their truffle chicken Kiev is no exception. Oozing with luxurious truffle butter alongside velvety pomme purée, this is comfort food at its most sophisticated. thestaffordlondon.com
O R R E RY
AFRICAN INFLUENCE IYOKI
The first ‘African restaurant’ to win a Michelin star is well worth a visit. Order the plantain, raspberry salt and smoked scotch bonnet. Or, try the cow skin sandwich which is far more elegant than it sounds, think pickled flowers atop a pistachio emulsion. 1 St James's Market, SW1Y 4AH iyokilondon.com
Chef Patron Igor Tymchyshyn has created a bespoke five-course menu using classic French cooking and well-sourced British produce, with each savoury dish incorporating fragrant fresh truffle. Alternatively, order truffles by weight and they’ll be brought to your table and shaved onto your dish of choice. orrery-restaurant.co.uk
RAMOUTAR RUM RUM KITCHEN
Queen of contemporary Caribbean cooking Shivi Ramoutar has teamed up with Rum Kitchen to create a menu that celebrates colourful, Caribbean plantbased dishes. The hero dish has to be the extremely moreish KFC – Krispy Fried Cauliflower served with garlic sweet potato, tamarind aioli and honey. Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, W1B 5PW carnaby.rumkitchen.com
S E XY F I S H
This autumn Sexy Fish is serving a delicious range of dishes using the seasonal truffle. Plates include; wagyu gunkan with white miso and black truffle, beef tartare with sour plum truffle, and king crab bone marrow with truffles and shallots. sexyfish.com
AMALFI STYLE THE STAFFORD LONDON
Basking in the glory of its recent Bib Gourmand, Clapham’s Sorella brings the Amalfi coast to London. A genuine family restaurant (sorella means sister) it's rustic and the perfect spot for long weekend lunches.
EAST FEAST L I T T L E KO L K ATA
A joyful addition to Covent Garden’s host of restaurants, this quaint restaurant offers a homely experience in the form of generous sharing plates. The star of the show is the fresh-water prawns, imported from India. The cocktail menu is equally authentic as shown through their signature cocktail: Saffron Spritz. 51-53 Shelton Street, WC2H 9JU littlekolkata.co.uk
SORELLA
SEXY FISH
148 Clapham Manor Street, SW4 6BX sorellarestaurant.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The big
SMOKE
We spoke to Lance Forman of H. Forman & Son about salmon smoking and upholding family tradition
Wo r d s H E L E N B R OW N
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F
rom an industrial corner of east London comes one of the country’s most distinguished and delicious exports. H. Forman & Son has been smoking salmon for over a century and as a family-run business, has certainly stood the test of time. It was started in 1905 by Harry Forman, a Russian Jewish immigrant from Odessa and the great grandfather of Lance Forman, the Brexit posterboy who now helms the ship. In the days when refrigeration was very basic, smoking fish was one of the trades these Jewish immigrants maintained as a method of preservation. In the early days, the salmon derived from the Baltic; certainly they didn’t realise that there was a salmon native to Britain when they first arrived here. They
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would ship the salmon over and smoke it in east London, exclusively for their own community. It was only when they ventured into Billingsgate that they saw beautiful wild salmon coming over from Scotland every summer and before long they took up smoking Scottish imports. The difference in the quality of the product was extraordinary and the Forman smoked salmon as we know it today was born. A lot of people think that it’s an ancient Scottish tradition, because it was smoked Scottish salmon that has the reputation. But this was never the case; it’s the Scottish salmon coming down to London. "It’s what we refer to today as London Cure Smoked Salmon," says Lance. The Scots had a history of smoking fish: kippers, Arbroath smokies and haddock. Delicious though they might be, they’ve very smokey. If you were a chef, putting on a fivecourse banquet 100 years ago, you’d never start with a kipper because you can still taste it after the chocolate pudding. It’s for this reason that even though the Scots were smoking fish, it never became a gourmet commodity. Having discovered the quality of the Scottish salmon, the king of fish, Lance’s ancestors set out with every intention of celebrating the taste of the beautiful fresh fish. The art was in concentrating the flavour of the salmon, not overpowering it with smoke. The preserving process is very simple. You preserve food by taking the moisture out. You fillet the salmon, you sprinkle it with salt and you leave it. 24 hours later, it weighs 10% less. Next you put it into the kiln to smoke, but before you smoke it, you air dry it, and here, you lose another 10% of the weight. “By taking all the moisture out, what you’re doing is concentrating the favour of what is remaining,” Lance explains. When the salmon has lost 20% of its moisture, it becomes quite tacky so when the smoke is released it sticks to the outside and creates a seal. The smoke protects the fish much like a vacuum pack. Now, before you eat the salmon you trim off the outer crust and reveal a beautiful salmon that has been cured. The smoke is barely there, it’s negligible. That is what smoked salmon was; that’s what became this iconic food. It’s in the trimming off of this outer crust that the production process of H. Forman & Son varies from the packets prevalent in supermarkets today. “People have been put off by mass-produced smoked salmon,” Lance says, “When we then ask them what
“The art is in concentrating the flavour of the salmon, not overpowering it with smoke” it is about smoked salmon they don’t like, the two things we hear time and time again are they texture - they find it very slimy, and that it’s too smokey. Both of those criticisms are not characteristics of what smoked salmon used to be, or how ours is. They both have arisen from commercialisation.” The sliminess if simple. H. Forman & Son loose 20% of the salmon’s moisture in the salting and the air-drying. They then trim off the crust, which weighs another 10%. When you’re selling fish by the kilo, if you lose 30% of your weight, you’ve lost 30% of your turnover. What supermarkets and mass-producers try to do is keep the water in. This is done by brining the fish in saltwater. When the salmon flops off the conveyor belt, needles inject the fish with salt water which pumps up the weight; a brilliant arrangement that means water can be sold at the price of salmon, but the salmon is left wet and slimy. “Some smoke houses don’t even smoke the salmon now, they spray it with a liquid smoke flavouring, like a spray tan,” Lance says, “which is great because there’s no weight loss and the smokey flavour absorbs into the flesh. Lance and his team of 80 efficient workers are the last people producing smoked salmon in the old-fashioned way. “We are the last surviving original salmon
smokers and in fact, for the last 10 years of so, I’ve been claiming that we are the oldest producers of Scottish smoked salmon in the world,” says Lance. Having been supplied in Selfridges for the last 100 years, Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and many of London’s most prestigious eateries, Lance’s smoked salmon has deservedly reached the culinary heights of Melton Mowbray pork pies, Prosecco, Champagne, Parma ham and Cornish pasties and is the first Londonbased food or drink company to do so. A feat not even achieved by London Dry Gin. It comes as no surprise then to see Forman salmon shipped from Hawaii to Hong Kong, the USA and Europe. But for us, to have this world-class product right on our doorstep is a triumph for Londoners. With such a steadfast method of production, we wonder if there is a pressure to remain ahead of the curve. “We are innovative, but we’ve never changed our method on our core product. So our London cure smoked salmon will never change. But we’re very innovative in the things we do around it,” Lance tells us. Here’s to another 100 years of this delicious heritage hero product. For more information visit formans.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Bavette Steak with Grilled Garlic Trencher Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 4
B
avette steak is the definitive butcher’s cut. Taken from the tip of the sirloin where it meets the flank it is a lean, juicy steak with a beefiness that is off the charts. Here we pair with our signature fire-crisped sourdough trenchers, the perfect mop for all the meaty juices.
INGREDIENTS
Family F R I EN D LY Tom McNeile has a life-long love of high quality steak. Pair that with a French wife and three small children, and it’s no surprise that his cooking is both delicious and achievable. Re c i p e s TO M M C N E I L E
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For the Bavette steak: • 1kg bavette steak • Glug of good olive oil • Few sprigs of fresh thyme • Knob of unsalted butter • 1 fat garlic clove • Sea salt • Freshly ground black pepper For the Trencher: • 4 slices of sourdough • Extra virgin olive oil • 2 garlic cloves
METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 200 degrees / 180 degrees fan-assisted / gas mark 4. 2 Take the bavette steak out of the fridge, drizzle with olive oil and season generously on both sides with sea salt and ground black pepper. You can do this as soon as you take the bavette out of the fridge while it comes to room temperature. 3 If barbecuing, use the direct heat method, if frying use a heavy cast-iron pan and preheat until it is smoking hot. 4 Add the bavette to the pan or onto the BBQ grill. Do not move or shake the pan - you will lose the heat. Wait patiently for two minutes then gently flip the bavette. Cook for another two minutes with the heat on full blast - you want a good crust on the steak.
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5 Flip the bavette once more and then add the knob of butter, fresh thyme and garlic clove which you have squashed with the heel of your hand. Use a spoon to repeatedly pour the butter over the steak for another minute, flip once more and baste for one more minute. 6 Remove the steak and place on a wire rack above a roasting tray, pour over the butter, thyme and garlic clove, cover loosely with tin foil and place into the oven for four-five minutes for medium rare, seven minutes for medium or ten minutes (or more) for well done. 7 Remove the bavette from the oven, discarding the butter, and leave the bavette to rest at room temperature for at least ten minutes. While it is resting, slice your sourdough, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and grill until toasted - for an extra whack of flavour you can toast the sourdough in the pan in which you grilled the bavette. Once toasted, rub each slice with a raw garlic clove. 8 Carve your bavette steak against the grain and serve immediately on top of the sourdough trencher to mop up all the juices.
Shakshouka Prep time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Serves: 4
INGREDIENTS • 2 red onions, thinly sliced • 2 red peppers, cut into long slices • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds • ½ teaspoon fennel seeds • ½ teaspoon hot paprika • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika • 1 tablespoon tomato purée • 2 x 400g tins of tomatoes • 4 free-range eggs • Handful finely chopped flat leaf parsley
METHOD 1 Heat the olive oil in a large, lidded pan or, best of all, in a cast-iron pan in which you can cook and serve the shakshouka. 2 Add the onions and red peppers and sweat
gently over a medium heat until softened. Add the cumin and fennel seeds and sprinkle in both your hot and smoked paprika. 3 Add the tomato purée, cook for a minute and then add the chopped garlic. Cook gently for a further minute then add the tinned tomatoes and a splash of water to loosen. Mix together and reduce the heat to low. 4 Simmer uncovered for ten minutes to allow the spices and flavours to blend harmoniously. Watch the texture carefully, you don’t want it to be runny or too dry so be ready to add water or reduce the heat as needed. 5 Using the back of a spoon make four small wells in the tomato mixture and gently crack an egg into each. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for three minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking. 6 Remove from the heat, sprinkle with the flat leaf parsley and serve immediately with warm toasted sourdough or pitta bread. 7 Try adding chopped up chunks of chorizo at stage 1 for a spicy, meaty kick or add a spicy sauce, we serve our Shakshouka with our signature Burning Bear chilli fresh sauce for a deep and warming background heat.
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Set in the charming heart of Dorking, nestled between the North Downs and gentle slopes of the Denbies Estate and Vineyards, The White Horse stands as one of England’s most storied coaching inns, with a history dating back as far as 1278. The property has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment and overhaul of both the public spaces, dining concept, and 56 bedrooms. Offering stylish accommodation, a destination restaurant, as well as an all-new bar and deli concept, The Dozen, specialising in local Surrey produce.
In other words, plenty to get your teeth into‌
01306 881138 The White Horse Hotel, High Street, Dorking, Surrey, United Kingdom RH4 1BE info@whitehorsedorking.com | www.whitehorsedorking.com
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Ice Cream Eton Mess Prep time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes or 2.5 hours if you’re making the meringue Serves: 4 (or 2 if you’re greedy like us)
T
his recipe has been served at Arlo’s since the day we opened and has become one of our most popular dishes. Thinking it was a summer recipe we briefly took it off the menu last winter, to such immediate uproar that we brought it back barely a week later…!
INGREDIENTS For the meringues: • 150g caster sugar • The whites of 3 very fresh free-range eggs
METHOD
METHOD
If you are making the meringues pre-heat the oven to 150 degrees / gas mark 2. Whisk the whites to stiff peaks but do not over-whisk or the mixture will collapse. 2 Slowly add the sugar, whisking all the time. 3 Spoon the meringue mix into oneinch-thick discs on baking trays lined with baking paper, put into the preheated oven and immediately turn the oven off. Once the oven is completely cold the meringue will be ready. Good quality shop bought meringues also work very well…!
1 Carefully split the vanilla pod, scrape out the seeds and fork through the mascarpone to mix fully and to loosen. 2 Cook the frozen mixed berries over a low heat in a saucepan for five minutes or so, remove from the heat and stir in the runny honey. Set aside to cool fully. 3 Peel and slice the mango into strips, halve the passion fruit and spoon out the flesh and seeds. Mix with the mango. 4 Using a meringue disc as your base add a scoop of good vanilla ice cream, then a spoon of your mascarpone and vanilla mixture. On top of this balance your mango and passion fruit, pour over your cooled forest fruit mix and finish with the finely chopped mint.
1
INGREDIENTS For the cream and all its glory: • 250g mascarpone • 1 vanilla pod or good vanilla extract • 50g frozen mixed berries • Tablespoon of runny honey • Good vanilla ice cream • 2 passion fruit • 1 mango • A few mint leaves, finely chopped
A R LO ’ S H A S T WO LO CAT I O N S Balham 1 Ramsden Rd, SW12 8QX Battersea 47 Northcote Rd, SW11 1NJ
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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BRUNCH • LUNCH • DINNER • COCKTAILS
PROUDLY INDEPENDENT & FAMILY OWNED Come and try our new Autumn menu before the end of November and swap me for any free drink!*
Arlo’s Balham, 1 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX 020 3019 6590 | balham@arlos.co.uk
Arlo’s Battersea, 47 Northcote Road, SW11 1NJ 020 3019 3737 | tom@arlos.co.uk
*One free drink per main course ordered from the Arlo’s Breafast + Brunch or Main menu. Free drink excludes carafes and full wine bottles. Available every Monday - Friday before 3pm, eat-in only. One drink per advert per main course per person. You must swap this advert to receive this offer. ARLO.indd 1
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25/10/2018 15:09
FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW
ABSOLUTELY eats out…
“The wellstocked bar has a particularly impressive array of Italian liquors.”
Cattivo
FOOD Italian sharing plates
The brand new Italian bar in Brixton is offering a series of exciting evening events By
B
A N G I E KO L E C I
rixton’s newest watering hole Cattivo, little sister of Hackney’s stalwart eatery Martello Hall, has set up shop on Ferndale road. I am here for the much-anticipated Liquor Club - a biweekly event of unlimited cocktails and Italian sharing plates. Greeted enthusiastically by the bar staff, we’re led to an intimate corner-table for two.
DECOR Pared back pastels and exposed plaster
The interior oozes rustic chic - chairs and tables are distressedwood, and low pendant lighting makes for a sophisticated, mellow atmosphere. Calm pastels coat the walls, indoor plants and table-top tea lights add to the ambience. The colourful bar is well-stocked, with a particularly impressive array of Italian liquors. A selection of five cocktails are available to choose from, mojito, whisky sour, Hawaiian punch, cucumber and elderflower Collins
PRICE £30 a head for Liquor Club
VERDICT A classy edition to Brixton’s bar scene
and el Diablo. It’s a well-rounded menu which caters for most tastes. We start with a gin based tipple, the cucumber and elderflower Collins. It’s fresh, sweet and fragrant. Next, the Hawaiian punch, which is fruity and tropical with a delicious almond kick. The classic mojito is perfectly balanced. While Cattivo deals mainly in high-end mixology, the food menu is diverse and enticing. From the wide selection of sharing platters we choose roast mushrooms, fried cod and nduja and taleggio arangini. The cod is nicely balanced and not at all over-cooked as is so often the case, it has a crunchy, golden exterior but manages to remain delicate, flaking apart at the push of my fork. It’s complemented wonderfully by a vibrant, tangy salsa. The star of the show is the indulgent and delicious nduja arangini, the spicy sausage is extremely tasty and the little balls of deep fried risotto are addictive. We leave feeling a little tipsy. C AT T I V O B R I X T O N 207 Ferndale Road, SW9 8BA cattivobar.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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LISA’S KITCHEN & BAR
Christmas & Group bookings are now available Traditional Swedish Julbord, Set menus and Feast/Sharing menus are all on offer
LIVE MUSIC THURSDAY: Jazz | FRIDAY & SATURDAY: Lisa’s Jukebox
MON CLOSED | TUE & WED 18.00 PM - 00.00 AM | THUR & FRI 11.00AM - 00.00AM | SAT & SUN 10.00AM - 00.00AM +44 (0) 20 8964 8293 | BOOKINGS@LISASPORTOBELLO.COM | LISASPORTOBELLO.COM
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ABSOLUTELY spotlights…
Cooking up a Storm We look at the brand new cookery school from Symes and the Natural Cook Company
S
ymes, the bespoke kitchen specialists and purveyors of fine interiors, have teamed up with the Natural Cook Company to run an exciting new cookery school south west of London. Held in a brand new bespoke cookery studio, the course offers a brilliantly diverse range of culinary topics with an enticing list of guest tutors lined up, as well as some of the usual Natural Cook Company workshops. From pastry and pasta to sushi and edible gifts, each course
is informative, innovative and guaranteed to widen your culinary repertoire. Cooking new things can be quite daunting but the Natural Cook Company makes the whole process fun, from the relaxed setting of Symes kitchen.
Highlights scheduled over the next few months include: FRIDAY NIGHT TAKEAWAY Learn to make a more delicious and economical version of your favourite takeaway with the Friday Night Takeaway course. Take your pick from the likes of Indian, Thai, Chinese and Japanese.
Informative, innovative and guaranteed to widen your repertoire
COCKTAILS & CANAPES The cocktails and canapes course will not only show you how to make quality cocktails, you’ll also get a crash-course in making complimentary canapes to go with each one. MAN WITH A PAN These courses are tailored specifically for men either relatively new to the kitchen or wanting to gain confidence and widen their skill set. ADULTS SOCIAL COOKERY CLUB This monthly social cooking club aims to banish the miserable ‘cooking for just one’ feeling. Here, you’ll make new friends while expanding your recipe repertoire. COOK WITH ME This popular series of workshops encourages parents and their kids to cook together, learn new skills and most importantly, have fun. AFTER SCHOOL CLUB The after-school club is a fun hands on way to encourage a passion for cooking and to develop new tastes in food. It’s available for children over six years of age and takes place every Tuesday in term-term.
For details on these or all other courses go to thenaturalcookcompany.com or atsymeskitchen.co.uk Unit 3, Derby Dell Buildings, Bentworth Road, Alton, GU34 5RX
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Let nuspace make the most of your property Why use nuspace?
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For your free, personalised, no obligation quotation,
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or visit our website at www.i-want-nuspace.co.uk Nuspace, Fulham Road, SW6 5JJ info@i-want-nuspace.co.uk
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26/10/2018 11:29
www.castrads.com Book a home consultation or visit one of our showrooms for bespoke heating Cast iron radiators hand made in England UK stores in Chelsea, Wimbledon & Manchester +44 (0) 20 3397 7295 | +44 (0) 161 439 9350
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INTERIORS
BLADES HEATING LIMITED; BLADES-AGA.CO.UK
Interior inspirations 70 • Living with green 80 • The Eco Townhouse 92 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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INTERIORS NOTES
Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE
HANG UPS DAR LIGHTING
Bombazine is an amazing oversized pendant with large opal white glass globes mounted on a natural brass frame hanging from a chain suspension. With an authentic mid century feel this pendant exudes style and glamour while providing a great light output £287.50, lights4living.com
CHOP CHOP RIG-TIG
Frame is a beautiful and functional cutting board with a practical tray that frames the wood. Pull out the plastic tray and use it to separate the usable from the unusable while you’re chopping and slicing. The tray also makes it easy to move food to a pan when cooking. £39.99 rig-tig.com
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INTERIORS • NOTES
PATTERN PERFECT All the best prints...
LAPUAN KANKURIT
EDITOR’S PICK
POSTER PERFECT
Ruut tablecloth. £107.50 cloudberryliving.co.uk
ARLO & JACOB Poirot sofa in Leilani linen, £4, 576, arloandjacob.com
NEISHA CROSLAND
Neisha Crosland's new posters collection features 23 iconic designs previously seen on scarves for Hankys Department Store in Japan between 2002 and 2018. Limited editions of 50 have been signed by Neisha. From £100 neishacrosland.com
COVET HOUSE
SPACE SAVER THE STUDY BED
This space-saving design combines a huge desk and a normal bed all within the same compact footprint. It easily converts from a desk to a bed in just three seconds, with no need to remove anything from the desk or the bed. All your current work is left intact while a fully made-up, ready to go, bed emerges out of seemingly nowhere. From £1,800; studybed.co.uk
Prisma rug, £POA. covethouse.eu
LUSH DESIGNS Jade vase, £36 lushlampshades.co.uk
BETTER BEDS BIG TABLE
CHRISTOPHER FARR Orchestra print in peach, £POA christopherfarrcloth.com
Big Table has been making beds on the same site for almost four decades and the wide selection of frames and mattresses has been tried and tested by loyal customers of all ages. They're very excited about Farrow and Ball's new colours, which look spectacular on the wooden frames – choose any colour and they'll paint them for you. bigtable.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Quote Absolutely to hear of exclusive offers for their readers
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INTERIORS • PRODUCTS JAN CONSTANTINE Rebel Rebel stocking, £55 janconstantine.com
JAN CONSTANTINE Glam Rock cushions, £98 janconstantine.com
NICK BARCLAY
HELEN GREEN
Aladdin Sane poster, from £39 junique.com
He Was The Nazz clock, £30 artwow.co
SWISSTED Redesigned typographic Bowie poster, £50 swissted.com
NATIONAL THEATRE Bowie ornament, £16 shop.nationaltheatre.org.uk
CRACKED ACTOR David Bowie is... our new homewares inspiration By P E N D L E H A R T E
WEDGIE Major Dave door stopper, £15 meetthewedgies.com
APRIL AND THE BEAR Lightning bolt standing mirror, £26 aprilandthebear.com
STANDARD DESIGNS Let’s Dance album as books print, £18 standarddesigns.co.uk
BOLD & NOBLE
EDITOR’S PICK
David Bowie tea towel, £12 boldandnoble.com
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“The smooth plaster pieces are unpainted and minimalist, yet instantly identifiable”
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MODEL VILLAGE Chisel and Mouse’s collection of architectural scuptures is loved by design-conscious people all over the world. Absolutely meets the brothers behind the business Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E
W
hat connects Glasgow School of Art, Trellick Tower, Helsinki Central Station and Miami Beach’s Century Hotel? Apart from all being architectural icons, they are all also subjects addressed in miniature by Chisel and Mouse. Their small sculpture versions of the buildings are design pieces, perfectly to scale and made to sit on shelves as decorative talking points. Looking at these smooth, minimal and precise models, it comes as no surprise that the duo behind Chisel and Mouse used to be software designers. In 2011, brothers Robert and Gavin Paisley were bored of developing back office systems and becoming fascinated by 3D printing. As admirers of the classical architectural models made by Timothy Richards, they started experimenting with their own equivalents and produced a plaster model of Battersea Power Station, which still remains their best-seller. The combination of IT skills and old-fashioned craftsmanship is what led to the name Chisel and Mouse – and the precision of their scale models is a testament to their skill. The smooth plaster pieces are unpainted and minimalist, yet instantly identifiable. Their methods have hardly changed since they began: they collect their assets, which may be drawings, architectural plans, photographs or simply images from Google Street View, and then they create a file using Sketchup, which is sent to a 3D printer. From there, a master mold is made from a prototype, and then the soft plaster can be poured. Based in a former pig farm in Sussex, they are making between 500
and 600 models a year, both brothers fitting their work lives around their families. But it’s not just modernist icons – over half of their business is bespoke. People moving out of long-standing family homes often commission a model of their house; Jo Malone London recently commissioned a model of their office building in Gloucester Place and architects want models of buildings they’re planning. There are also 3D models where you can take the roof off and see the furniture, like dolls’ houses for adults. Devon’s beautiful Burgh Island is home to a single Art Deco hotel and they are currently fulfilling a commission for them. Cityscapes are another line, 3D maps of cities including London, Berlin and New York – and there’s a big market for American ones. Robert says: “We try and celebrate the beauty of our industrialised world by combining an artisan’s approcah with modern innovation and transformative technologies.” New projects for the duo include a collaboration with Sir John Soane’s Museum and a collection of Hawksmoor’s London churches as well as an upcoming new model of the Art Deco RIBA headquarters in Portland Place. chiselandmouse.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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LUXURY HANDM ADE FURNITURE | GORGEOUS HOME ACCESSORIES LUXURY LUXURY LUXURY HANDM HANDM HANDM ADE ADE ADE FURNITURE FURNITURE FURNITURE | |GORGEOUS |GORGEOUS GORGEOUS HOME HOME HOME ACCESSORIES ACCESSORIES ACCESSORIES LUXURY HANDM ADE FURNITURE | GORGEOUS HOME ACCESSORIES
U S E T H E C O D E A B S O L U T E LY W S 1 0 F O R 1 0 % O F F * UU SE U S ESTEH TH E TH ECEC OO C DO D ED EAEA BS B AO SBO S LU O LU TL EU T LY ET LY EW LY W SW 1S01S01F0O FO F RO R1 R 01 % 01 % 0O%O FO F *FF *F * U S E T H E C O D E A B S O L U T E LY W S 1 0 F O R 1 0 % O F F * UNIT 15, THE ME TRO CENTRE, ST JOHN’ S ROAD, ISLEWORTH, T W 7 6N J UNIT UNIT UNIT 15,15, THE 15, THE THE ME ME TRO ME TRO TRO CENTRE, CENTRE, CENTRE, STST JOHN’S ST JOHN’S JOHN’S ROAD, ROAD, ROAD, ISLEWORTH, ISLEWORTH, ISLEWORTH, TW TW 7T6N 7W6N 7J 6N J J W W.SWEE A ANDWILLOW.COM 0345 257 2627 UNIT 15,WTHE ME TROTPE CENTRE, ST JOHN’ S ROAD, ISLEWORTH, T W 7 6N J WW W W.SWEE W.SWEE W W.SWEE TPE TPE A TPE ANDWILLOW.COM A ANDWILLOW.COM A ANDWILLOW.COM 0345 0345 0345 257 257 257 2627 2627 2627 W W W.SWEE TPE A ANDWILLOW.COM 0345 257 2627 *Cannot be used in conjunction with any other sales or promotions. *Cannot *Cannot *Cannot be be used be used in used conjunction in conjunction in conjunction with with any with any other any other other sales sales or sales promotions. or promotions. or promotions. *Cannot be used in conjunction with any other sales or promotions.
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INTERIORS • PRODUCTS DYBERG LARSON Haipot pendant light in light green, £136 limelace.co.uk
MADE Axel large tufted wool rug, £299 made.com
ATKIN & THYME Calvin armchair and Carnaby footstool in emerald green velvet, £399 and £119 atkinandthyme.co.uk
LOAF Slim Jim sofa in brushed cotton, £1245 loaf.com
AUDENZA Green velvet cusion, £37 audenza.com
MADE Joash set of four grid tumblers, £18 made.com
GREEN SCENE
DOUSING AND REYNOLDS Farsley enamel light shade, £45 dousingandreynolds.com
MADE Delilah accent chair in green velvet, £399 made.com
Here are Absolutely’s favourite green pieces
TILE GIANT V&A Racing Green wall tile tilegiant.co.uk
By P E N D L E H A R T E
EDITOR’S PICK
HURN AND HURN Karlsson wall clock in green and gold, £40 hurnandhurn.com
PENELOPE HOPE Neon green marble silk cushion, £95 penelopehope.com
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Stylist and photographer Emma Harris’ painted plywood kitchen reflects her pared back yet feminine style. Absolutely has a look around Interview CUSTOMFRONTS.CO.UK
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Q: In terms of decoration what would you say is your style? A: In an ideal world, I would live in a John Pawson inspired house, but in reality I have two children and a husband and full-on minimalism just isn’t going to work for us. So I would say that my style is pretty pared back, but with a few feminine touches and favourite pieces thrown in. I have also just recently discovered colour again after a good few years of white and greys and I am really enjoying the drama it adds to some parts of my home. Q: Why did you choose a Custom Fronts kitchen? A: I did some styling work for Custom Fronts, and fell in love with their kitchens on set. The quality and finish of all of them is just beautiful. It did however make choosing the finish pretty difficult, as I wanted every new kitchen I saw (pink was a front runner for quite a long time). However, in the end we choose classic soft white with a brass handle. It also means that if we do get bored, we can easily paint over it.
With two children and a husband, fullon minimalism just isn’t going to work for us
Q: In your home, what is your favourite object? A: Without a doubt, it is a painting of a nude given to me my Dad. I always admired her when she hung on his wall, and when he downsized with my step-mum, they very generously passed her on to me. Thanks to the wonders of social media, after years of not knowing much about her, we discovered that she is most likely taken from a copy of a well known painting. At some point, she will take pride of place on the kitchen wall. Q: How was “a quiet style” born? A: I used to blog about local artists, prior to the birth of my second daughter. When she was about nine months old, I felt ready to start blogging again but I didn’t want to have to rely on others for the content and more than one friend suggested I blog about myself and my life, as I have a strong sense of what I like. So that’s how it all began.
Q: Why that name? A: It felt like a good interpretation of my style and me in general, because my style is quiet and understated as a general rule, and I think my personality is pretty much the same. I am also a fan of the “less is more” approach to most things in my life and often in my job too if I can get away with it. Q: Tell us something surprising about you? A: Even though I am known for having a personality that fits my the name ‘a quiet style’, when it comes to the genre of film and TV I like, it is anything but, the darker the better. But apart from that, what you see is what you get with me. Q: Top tip for renovating a kitchen A: Storage, storage, storage. I would try and get as much in as you possibly can, having invested in a beautiful new kitchen, the last thing you want is to have to leave boxes of cereal on the side because they won’t fit anywhere. I meticulously planned the storage in our new kitchen by writing out a list of everything we keep in the kitchen and working out where it would go. I would recommend just spending a bit of time doing the same so you know that all the essentials will have a home.
CUSTOM FRONTS Custom Fronts creates beautiful handcrafted plywood kitchens. Choose from a large range of premium quality finishes and handles, and add doors, drawer fronts, cover panels, and worktops to your cabinets - whether from Ikea or another manufacturer. customfronts.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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STYLIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER EMMA HARRIS SHARES HER LOVE OF FLOWERS AND UNDERSTATED STYLE ON HER BLOG AQUIETSTYLE.CO.UK
INTERIORS • KITCHENS
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INTERIORS • COLOUR
PRETTY GREEN Green interiors are vibrant and life-affirming. Absolutely celebrates all the shades Words A N N A S TA R M E R
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ush, verdant, vibrant and life-affirming, green is a constant in our lives. Intrinsically linked to the natural world, green can be energy boosting, moodenhancing and grounding. Green is the colour of new growth, of country gardens and meadow fields, deep ancient forests and vast fertile plains. We long to surround ourselves with optimistic and rejuvenating shades of fresh grass, zesty lime and decadent emerald. Yet softer shades of sage, olive or pale mint speak of sanctuary, and a sense of restored balance and well being. Tropical greens call to mind balmy days spent relaxing in sun-dappled courtyards. In hot climates, living spaces tend to spill out into open-air rooms, patios and terraces, and these outdoor spaces are often filled with terracotta pots of glossy-leaved plants and abundant flowers, creating a sense of tranquility and closeness to nature. Fountains and water channels running along tiled floors help to abate the heat of the midday sun. The green colour family offers us the chance to reconnect with Mother Earth, bringing the outdoors into our homes. We can live in harmony with nature and use its dominant colour to breathe new life into tired spaces. Greens are wonderful blended and layered together in a single living space. Cooling, peaceful and harmonious shades of green – such as pistachio, jade, mint and seafoam – work effortlessly together on a multitude of surfaces, ranging from glossy ceramic tiles to chalky matt paintwork. It is wonderful to fill our living spaces with real plants and to take inspiration from the shades of green of the changing seasons. Cactus colours can inspire a perfect palette of softened greyed-greens. Add a touch of springtime to your kitchen with clean and clear mints or pale leaf greens. These pretty pale greens work well for woodwork and ceramics – you can even source electrical appliances in mint and pistachio finishes.
Incorporating natural materials in the home is a simple way to soften our unnatural habitats. Undyed, unpainted and raw wood, rattan or bamboo have a wonderful warm, golden natural coloration and pleasing textures that work especially well with greens. Celebrate organic materials with exposed wooden ceiling beams, natural seagrass flooring and jute lampshades. To avoid a scheme becoming too rustic, contrast the traditional with contemporary digital zigzag patterns or highly polished table tops. When playing with pattern and wallpaper, keep your colour palette focused and limited. Modern design and new printing technologies give us the option to bring oversized printed materials into our living spaces. Huge banana leaves or lush jungle greens create an interior that is both fun and vibrant. Use large-scale pattern and decoration on a single wall or juxtapose solid colour on a wall with monochrome artwork and pattern accents. Pattern and graphic decoration add focus and depth to a room. Geometric pattern can lift an otherwise simple palette of colours – here, greens are successfully combined with monochrome. A simple repeat graphic pattern is bold, modern and yet somehow timeless. Pattern can also give an unexpected twist to a scheme, elevating the space and
Green can be energy-boosting and mood-enhancing A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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It won’t be the planes that wake you up. Our noise reduction windows transform lives.
www.silentwindows.co.uk
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020 3131 4297
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INTERIORS • COLOUR
creating layers of visual interest. A classic black-and-white pattern never looks dated or out of place and introducing natural, soothing greens softens the overall look. Contrasting the paintwork colours with the symmetrical, geometric pattern of the floor tiles creates a striking effect. Colour combinations need to be kept to a minimum, just two or three shades working together, to allow the pattern to take centre stage. Pattern is no longer reserved for cushions and traditional floral motifs. Modern design solutions are just as likely to see pattern being introduced into our homes in new and energizing ways. Try mixing pattern across wall coverings and floor tiles, and play around with scale; juxtaposing different sized versions of the same design motifs is effective. Use mid-tone shades of green in the bedroom or living room. The first shoots of spring inspire clean, clear tones that
Photography: copyright Anna Starmer
have a zingy note. Herbaceous greens, such as spearmint and peashoot, used on either walls or furnishings will invigorate any space. These fresh, light colours create an effect that is at once uplifting and inviting. Greens can be used to spectacular effect. Precious tones of bright emerald and rich jade add depth and enliven any surface. Consider how these saturated, jewel-like colours can be introduced into a room scheme. Sumptuous fabrics, such as velvets and silks, will introduce opulence but can also help to soften a space. Gloss paintwork, metallic surfaces, vintage glassware and gleaming ceramic glazes all emphasize the luxury of these shades. What is striking here is that the brightest emerald green colour, normally reserved for an accent, dominates the room. Pinks and greens work beautifully together, creating an often surprising and refreshing colour palette. Flat-painted pale pink walls provide a perfect backdrop to gleaming green furniture, allowing it to take centre stage. Plush velvets can be reminiscent of theatre seating or lavish restaurant interiors but, used cleverly, this luxurious fabric can be brought coolly into the twenty-first century. Such a scheme isn’t simply about colours, it is also about mixing up textures to create a space with interesting layers of contrast. Emerald green is a bold colour to use in furnishings or curtains in order to create a dramatic living area. Large rooms with high ceilings can be transformed through the adventurous use of saturated colours. Pay little heed to the saying ‘blue and green should never be seen’ and experiment with
intense and dazzling layers of rich greens and deep inky blues. In many cultures the colour green is synonymous with wealth, prosperity and luxury. Intensely rich greens are intrinsically linked to a sense of abundance and success. In nature the vast spectrum of the colour green in all its wonderful shades means health, growth and renewal. Let this inspire you to embrace the great many positive attributes linked to the colour green. Kingfisher, hummingbird or peacock greens have a blueish cast. Inspired by the iridescent gleam of a flash of green feather, these shades glint and shimmer in the light. Layer them together to create a palette of decadent greens. Choose materials and finishes that reflect and play with light – a lustrous velvet, a glass-topped cabinet, a highly polished varnish or a metallic paint finish. The natural world can so often inform pattern, decoration and furnishings. Peacock-coloured botanical themes can be enhanced with a metallic shimmer. Use gold leaf to cover a ceiling or an alcove, and position your lighting to pick out the gleaming surfaces. The darkest of greens, close to black but just one step removed, is a shade that is intense and enduring, like an evergreen forest. Using such a dark shade for a large space might seem ambitious, but actually it creates a sense of intrigue and drama. Soft lighting and the matt finish build a theme of classic style and elegance. For balance, keep the floor and work surfaces pale and incorporate decorative touches that are orderly and simple.
Extracted from
LOV E C O LO U R C H O O S I N G C O LO U R S TO L I V E W I T H by Anna Starmer published by Ivy Press, (£25)
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Grate Expectations - A Family run business established for over 30 years The UK’s leading suppliers of luxury gas fireplaces, wood burning stoves and bioethanol fires manufactured by DRU, Spartherm, Ebios, Dik Guerts, Gazco, Stovax and many more.
1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, SW20 8JT 020 8540 8387 | sales@grateexpectations.com | grateexpectations.com
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INTERIORS • FEATURE
KERB APPEAL Are you looking to transform the front of your house with an attractive new driveway?
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re you looking to transform the front of your house? If so a resin drive is well-worth considering. Resin bound surfacing is a porous paving material made from aggregate stones and resin. It combines the best attributes of other surfaces – the appearance of loose gravel, the strength of concrete and the flexibility of tarmac – whilst being easier to install than all three! I T ’ S E N V I R O N M E N TA L LY F R I E N D LY Unlike bonded systems, a resin bound surface allows water to drain through just as Mother Nature intended. With natural, un-toxic stone Resin Drives minimises the impact on the environment whilst avoiding puddles at the same time.
MAKE IT UNIQUE Resin bound surfacing comes in a choice of over 40 unique colours and is suitable for all types of properties and projects including; driveways, patios, paths and terraces making it the ideal surface for driving on or as an outdoor living space such as a patio to enjoy with the family or entertain guests. SA R A H B E E N Y ’ S D R I V E WAY A DV I C E Sarah Beeny, Channel 4 presenter and property developer, is a big fan of Resin Drives. “Resin is definitely the perfect drive finish,” she says. “It’s so practical – being totally porous it drains brilliantly and doesn’t create puddles. It’s lovely to walk on, has a long-lasting durable finish and is available in an amazing range of colours.” “It’s a bit like a little black dress. You can dress it up glitzy glam if you want a real Hollywood look, or it can blend perfectly in a rural setting.”
THE BENEFITS OF A RESIN D R I V E WAY
Slip resistant surface • Adds value to your property • No planning permission required • Suitable for listed buildings, urban or rural properties • Completely porous, so no puddles or flooding • Weed adverse materials • Excellent traction for driving • Strong and durable so it will outlast other driveway options
She recommends Resindrives.co.uk for their professional service and high-quality work on her driveway: “They arrived when they said they would, gave us a clear time schedule for the work and were finished early,” she says. “All the fitters were polite and charming and properly cleaned up after themselves. They did a beautiful job and were complete perfectionists.”
Resindrives.co.uk have over 10 years’ experience and have installed over 20,000 drives. To find out more or get a free quote, call 0800 007 5733 or visit www.resindrives.co.uk
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esigned to combine style and quality with simple construction and minimal waste, the Nomad Collection includes a two-seater sofa, armchair and coffee table. Each piece is constructed of only five plywood components and can be easily assembled in seconds with no glue, no screws and no tools. As well as simple assembly, transport could not be easier: when disassembled each piece can fit easily in a small car to be taken anywhere. Henning Stummel is acclaimed internationally for his compelling and striking architectural portfolio. His Nomad Collection, like his architecture, is characterised by a creative and resourceful approach to design, and is a charming example of necessity as the mother of invention. When Henning and his wife Alice realised they needed a new sofa they decided to develop one they could easily build themselves. The project soon developed a life of its own, and two years and six permutations later, Nomad is ready. Arriving in flatpack form, each furniture piece is designed and grooved to millimetre precision, allowing the user to slot and assemble each piece easily and quickly – all without the use of glue or screws and no need for any tools at all. The sofa and armchair upholstery is available in two high-grade leather and three velvet finishes, while the frames and coffee table are manufactured using birch ply, which can
When Henning and his wife Alice needed a new sofa, they decided to develop one they could easily build themselves A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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HELPING NATURE LOOK STYLISH • 18 Years of experience • Turnkey Solutions • Complete Design and build service • Post build maintenance
SW London 87 Monkleigh Rd London, SM4 4EL
Greg Flugel M: 07590 401 780 greg@urbanxteriors.com
www.urbanxteriors.com
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be laminated to offer alternative colour variations. Significantly, each piece is made of just one sheet of ply or hide, maximising the efficiency of Nomad and eradicating production waste. Nomad is exclusively made in the UK, manufactured by Gloucestershire-based sofa makers Uptec, who boast years of experience supplying leading retailers including Heals and Conran. Henning Stummel is an award-winning architect and academic, influenced by the Bauhaus ideology of form following function. Born in Frankfurt and based in London, Henning studied architecture and urbanism at the Technische Hochschule Darmstadt and the ETH Zurich, before working with Norman Foster and David Chipperfield Architects. Henning founded his own architectural practice in 2000 – Henning Stummel Architects – and has since been shortlisted twice for the prestigious RIBA Stephen Lawrence Award, alongside publication of his architecture portfolio worldwide. Henning’s best-known recent project is the RIBA Award-winning Tin House in Shepherds Bush, London: an outstanding and compelling cluster of red pyramidal rooms that has captured the imagination of both the media and architectural peers alike. Tin House was named House of the Year in the AJ Architecture Awards 2017 and was shortlisted for the RIBA House of the Year Award and Stephen Lawrence Price in 2016. nomad.london
Each piece can be easily assembled in seconds with no glue, no screws and no tools
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE AND SURVEY
0800 007 5733 OVER 20,000 INSTALLATIONS NATIONWIDE VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO FIND OUT MORE
www.resindrives.co.uk
Create extra parking space & amazing kerb appeal...
...or get the most out of your garden with a picture-perfect patio.
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Specialists in driveways, paths and patios. • A porous surface kinder on the environment. • Slip-resistant and wheelchair friendly. • Hand-trowelled for an impeccable finish. • Excellent traction ideal for driving. • Prevents flooding, puddles and • Available in a wide range of colours unsightly weeds. and styles.
✓ BBA approved installation process. ✓ Insurance backed guarantee. ✓ Over 10 years experience.
Approved Materials & Systems Cert No. 18/5476
*Resindrives.co.uk is a trading name of resindrives.co.uk ltd. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN743675) We are a credit broker and not a lender, we offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.
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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION
A LOVE OF THE CRAFT Robert Skiba, founder and owner of Roscar Developments, talks about his company
just small sections (we always get asked back to do more anyway). What makes the difference is the experience of our staff. Whether our labourers or me, it’s the years of learning that count – working out how to do something in a way that is cost-effective but achieves the result. Other companies come and go and make empty promises – but we deliver – ask our customers. We’re always there to discuss how the project is going and suggest what will work. I’ve worked in various areas of the country during my career but it’s the most recent ones working in London that have been the most exciting. With space so expensive it’s so important to use it well and that’s where the business is growing – converting whole spaces – whole house projects. I’m on with several at the moment and the team are ahead of schedule and on budget for them all – this gives us a great platform to grow the business.
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rom the many years I’ve spent in the building trade I’ve always loved seeing a project move from concept to completion. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver each and every project, no matter how big or small, to a high standard, on time and on budget. The handover to the client is always the most pleasurable part – seeing the transformation that we’ve made of their dreams coming true. That’s what continues to drive me to produce the best quality property work that I can. Even after 35 years, I still get excited about each new project: my enthusiasm has never waned. Using all those years
T E ST I M O N I A L of experience to solve the problems other people said couldn’t be solved and creating the space that customers yearn for. That’s what makes the difference – taking the project from the beginning, then recognising and developing the possibilities to use space effectively. We do this by using modern building methods and building materials while keeping as many original features as we can to create a blend for modern living. The range of products available today enables us to achieve whatever the client desires, whether it's a bathroom, kitchen, orangery, or just a cool living space in which to unwind, relax and enjoy some well-earned quality time. Our work tends to be in the residential sector where we take a property and work with the client’s or our own architect to create a workable plan of property conversion. This can be a whole house or
Robert and his team, Lukas, Maciek, & Zibi were superb. They are a great team, who went above and beyond in terms of the additional fixes & features of the build. R O S CA R D E V E LO P M E N T S 020 7043 1613 roscardevelopments.com
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Inside Skandium’s eco townhouse the focus is not only on sustainability and quality but also on bold colour. Absolutely takes a tour Words P E N D L E H A R T E
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INTERIORS • SUSTAINABILITY
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n connection with the London Design Festival, Frame Award-winning Danish furniture company Montana transformed Skandium’s four-story townhouse in South Kensington into an ‘eco townhouse’. The entire house was populated exclusively with Scandinavian design products created with a level of ethical commitment, which could range from sustainably sourced materials to responsible manufacture or corporate responsibility initiatives. As Denmark’s oldest furniture family, Montana was invited by Skandium to implement the transformation of the location. An ever-increasing number of people are looking to minimize environmental impact when decorating their homes, turning to sustainable technology and interior and architectural innovation. Thus, Skandium aims not just to curate a collection of responsible design, but to demonstrate that it can be a vibrant, beautiful, and liveable solution to interior design. To that effect, Montana enlisted architect Helena Laursen, recipient of the Frame Award Milan, to design two of the floors in their signature bold, captivating colour palette, while Skagerak transformed the basement and garden using their collection of FSC-certified furniture designed by a contingent of 30 international designers and collaborators. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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K EY F E AT U R E S No foundations, mess or noise during installation. Rapid installation (and relocation if required!) No maintenance and very energy efficient. 2700 standard colour combinations plus unlimited other finishes. Interior design service available. NO APPROVALS REQUIRED.
MESS FREE CONSTRUCTION Designed to comply with Permitted Development Regulations
C a l l n ow fo r eve n m o re i d e a s ! 077 8858 2779 hello@ultimategardenroom.com ultimategardenroom.com
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INTERIORS • SUSTAINABILITY
All floors were finished with furniture, lighting and accessories from Skandium’s catalogue, and each piece accompanied with their individual story of sustainability. Both Montana and Skagerat believe that the word “sustainability” has become overused and is starting to lose its impact. Both interpret the idea of “consequences” as an emphasis on making quality products that last through generations. “We have always thought that Montana will only survive if the business runs on good values, so to speak, and maintains high ethical standards. Companies are the most powerful drivers in terms of changing the world to a better place. Companies are no longer measured in terms of profit or being the world’s best. They are increasingly being measured by being best for the world. This is our philosophy, too,” says Joakim Lassen, Montana’s CEO. “Sustainability is profitable. That is why we work according to high quality standards ensuring that our furniture will survive from generation to generation and can be moved from room to room as the home’s needs change.” Montana only used PEFC certified wood for the furniture, making sure that new trees are planted and no children are involved in the production process anywhere in the supply chain. Since 2007, Montana has exclusively used water-based lacquer colours, which neither smell nor contain solvents.
“Skandium is populated with superlative examples of sustainable, responsible design” In London the world comes together and Montana took inspiration from the city’s multicultural nature. Some of London’s most colourful communities involve Indian and Arabic cultures and their vibrant and powerful colour universes – block colours, draped textiles and spices draws you in and creates a vibe of Marrakesh and India, activating all senses and underlining the theme of sustainability. Charlie Perry, Managing Director of Skandium, says: “Scandinavian suppliers stand head and shoulders above the rest of the world when it comes to mitigating the environmental and even social impact of their products, and as such, Skandium is populated with superlative examples of sustainable, responsible design.” skandium.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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N O P L A S T I C THERE IS NO REASON TO BE BUYING PLASTIC. HERE ARE SOME STYLISH ALTERNATIVES
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PAC K I T U P B L AC K + B L U M
This simple stainless steel lunchbox promises to be the first truly leakproof one; it allows you to transport your lunch, cook dishes in the oven, and even store pre-cooked meals in a freezer. £31.95 black-blum.com
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TA K E A S I P S’WELL
Genius brand S'Well combines style with sustainability and performance with its stylish range of stainless steel water bottles that keep water cold, don't leak and look good. Plus, there's even a Liberty print range. What's not to like? swellbottle.com
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ART OF GLASS
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SOL
These stylish and handy blown glass coffee cups are a delight to drink from. They won't absorb any flavour, the silicone sleeve feels comfortable and the glass is strong enough to survive the bottom of your bag. Never touch a sungle-use cup again. From £19. solcups.co.uk
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BRUSH STROKE I R I S H A N DV E R K
In the late 1900s century a small brush manufacturing started out in Stockholm, making every brush made by hand by visually impaired craftsmen. Using sustainable materials, these wooden brushes are far better than any plastic. irishantverk.se
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Are you throwing away plastic toothbrushes on a regular basis? Subscribe to the Parly White Club and they'll send you a new eco one every six weeks, made from biodegradable and ethically-sourced bamboo. What's not to like? pearlywhiteclub.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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YES, IT’S A CRYING SHAME…
…that she left it too late to apply for Hurtwood House, because it’s simply the best for acting, dancing, singing, film-making – “A utopia for creative minds” – as the Good Schools Guide says. And crucially, this exciting school is equally successful academically. In fact, it’s statistically one of the top co-ed boarding schools in the UK. So, if you’re looking for a really exciting and rewarding change of school at 16 – don’t leave it too late. Contact Cosmo Jackson or visit our website for more information.
T: 01483 279000
E: info@hurtwood.net
hurtwoodhouse.com
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KIDS & EDUCATION
BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY APOLINA KIDS The new collectino from Apolina Kids combines delicate embroidery withdeep natural tones for a classically bohemian look.. apolina-kids.com
Small Talk: Sleepovers and swimming trunks 95 · Education 97 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES B RA N D F O CU S
GIRL POWER OUTSIDE THE LINES
Girly without being saccharine, Outside the Lines returns with their signature ’70s-inspired style. Look out for bohemian dresses with artisanal detailing, shaggy faux-fur coats, ruffles, bows and colour-pop pom-poms galore. Designed for the free-spirited and wild at heart. outside-the-lines.co.uk
SMALL TALK Wildlife rescue, cosy sleepovers and fairy magic
LOVE BRAND
L
ove Brand & Co has been mission to help save wildlife through their sophisticated swim and resort wear for men and children since 2010. They donate 5% of their revenues to projects put forward to them from all corners of the globe. Their concept is simple - Trunks for Trunks, coined by founder and designer, Oliver Tomalin. Eight years on, three stores later (two in London, one in Barbados) and with a successful online shop, they are fulfilling their goal to help to save endangered wildlife while creating and distributing beachwear in over 50 countries. Love Brand swim shorts' trunk drawstrings have tusks on the end, symbolic of their unwavering commitment to elephants. Quality, fit and attention to detail are all key to their effortless and timeless style. Their prints are elegant and imaginative, each one designed with a unique meaning or unsuspecting motif hidden beneath a spectrum of colour and fun .
SIMPLE SLEEPOVERS N I G H T OW L D U V E T S
The Night Owl printed duvets are designed for sleepovers and camping trips –easily washable and needing no separate covers they're practical and – importantly – super cosy. From £45; finebedding.co.uk
lovebrand.com
EDITOR’S PICK
FAIRY MAGIC
SKETCH BOOK
H OW TO S E E FA I R I E S
T H E B OY
By Charles van Sandwyk Charles van Sandwyk’s exquisitely illustrated tales have been brought together as a collection for the first time by the Folio Society – and this is a beautiful volume for all ages. £39.99;
By Oliver Jeffers A new collection of four modern classics – Lost and Found, How to Catch a Star, The Way Back Home and Up and Down– includes a captivating look at the making of each in four sketchbook sections. £25
foliosociety.com
harpercollins.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Schools and Colleges
Specialist GCSE and A level provider Strong teaching and outstanding pastoral care.
The ISI awarded MPW
—The Good Schools Guide
most recent inspection.
MPW colleges are some of the country’s best known providers of bespoke fifth- and sixth- form education, offering GCSEs and A levels in
Phone us today or visit our website:
over 45 subjects. We are distinctive in many ways, not least in our small
www.mpw.ac.uk
London the highest grade in every category in their
classes of 9 or less students and our exceptional university preparation: over 70% of our leavers each year progress to top tier universities. Our mission is to turn academic aspirations into reality. MPW is a friendly, flexible college that offers an outstanding learning environment.
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London 020 7835 1355
27/09/2018 11:58
EDUCATION • FOCUS SCHOOL NOTICES FOUNDERS CLARE REID AND GORDON DAWSON
MARKET School Notices is a digital network that benefits parents and schools alike B y A M A N DA C O N S TA N C E
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ant to buy a llama, a new puppy or maybe a pink Cadillac? Or maybe you’re selling an Eton tailcoat or want to rent your villa in Barbados. You can find all these things, and much more on School Notices, a successful digital marketplace. Like Radio HP and its cooler, metropolitan cousin Emily’s Group, School Notices has built an impressive online following. Taking the principle of the oldfashioned school noticeboard, it is a cutting-edge website that connects up schools, parents and alumni across the country. “It’s a really simple concept to be honest” says Clare Reid, who founded the business in 2014. “Most parents don’t want to advertise their kid’s musical instruments or puppies, or look for a nanny, on a dusty noticeboard in the school corridor.
Nor do they want to rent out their precious holiday home to a stranger on Airbnb, which is where we come in.” “It’s a trusted community,” she says, “you have an idea of who you are dealing with, which really matters.” The website is free to join and parents, staff and alumni can buy, sell and advertise to one another, safe in the knowledge that other users will be PLU – People Like Us as my granny used to say. But School Notices is more than just a great free-to-post digital marketplace, it also raises money for its member schools. A sizeable 25 per cent of all advertising revenue is shared with them, providing an alternative revenue stream with no effort required. So far 130 UK member independent schools have signed up with access to nearly 90,000 parents and the business is launching in Asia and Australia.
“Schools Notices has raised £100,000 so far for member schools”
Buyer’s
“It’s a very successful concept,” says Reid, “and there’s a real feelgood factor because we are helping schools and parents.” And these aren’t any old parents – most independent school parents are in the top 1% of earners in the UK and “where an affluent audience goes, the businesses will follow,” says Reid. School Notices already boasts an impressive roster of advertising clients such as Boden, Bupa, Boodles, Powder Byrne, Bailey Robinson, Strutt & Parker and St James’s Place. Some are businesses run by parents – as in the case of Bailey Robinson (“a Cheam parent”, says Reid) or big corporates attracted by the audience demographic. Reid got the idea for School Notices came when she was involved in raising money for a new art block at her childrens’ school, Cheam, near Newbury. “I sidled up to a friend – a dad on the touch line – her now partner Gordon Dawson and within a week we were in the headmaster’s study explaining our idea", she says. "We tested it at Cheam – within the first term most parents had signed up… Last term the school had a cheque for £14k from us.” Just four years ago Reid and Dawson were running their business in a barn. They are now a team of 14 in an office near Basingstoke. And they have raised £100,000 for member schools so far, though Reid says they won’t “break open the bubbly until we get to £500,000”. schoolnotices.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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TRAVEL
WORLD WONDERS ZAMBIA
The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara is the only property to enjoy private access to Victoria Falls. Absolutely takes a trip to discover the Zambian side of one of the world's seven natural wonders.
Mozambique & Zambia 100 • UK Getaway: Artist Residence Brighton 105 • Crete 106 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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ZEBRA ROAMING IN THE GROUNDS OF THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE HOTEL
Where the WILD THINGS are
Absolutely heads to Mozambique and Zambia to get a taste of two properties that are worlds apart Wo r d s H E L E N B R O W N
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ying for its place among the private island resorts of the world is Medjumbe, an Anantara property ensconced within the remote Quirimbas Archipelago off the northern coast of Mozambique. A far-cry from the typical safari-style holidays of southern Africa, this secluded gem comprises just 12 beach villas and affords total detachment from the rest of the world.
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TRAVEL • AFRICA
MEDJUMBE ISLAND RESORT
We reach the resort via a 45-minute helicopter ride from Pemba International Airport, which follows a two-leg journey from Heathrow to Johannesburg and Johannesburg to Pemba. Yes it’s a long way to travel but the tranquility on the other side is worth it. Here, the horizon is an endless swirl of white sands and the azure blue of the Indian Ocean. Beyond this vista, the waters surrounding Medjumbe Island offer an oceanic playground for water sports, whale watching, sunset cruises and remote island picnics, while below the waterline lives a wealth of marine life. The Quirimbas National Park is known for its coral reefs and waters inhabited by whales and dolphins. The 500m by 200m Quissanga Island is just 15 minutes from Medjumbe via boat and an ideal spot for snorkelling. A trip to this untouched island can be arranged as part of your stay on Medjumbe for a leisurely morning of swimming and splashing around amongst the fishes. We enjoy cold beers on the beach but guests can also arrange for a private picnic and can relish in the remoteness of the island with the Sleep Under the Stars experience. This invites couples to sleep outside in a four-poster bed surrounded by lanterns beneath the bejewelled night sky. Medjumbe’s restaurant, Jahazi, is a rustic yet elegant spot overlooking the ocean. It serves all manner of international cuisine, from fresh seafood and local curries to grilled meat, sushi and salads. Breakfast - comprising the usual fruit platters, eggs, breads, cereals, plus a delicious lobster benedict and jerk chicken - is also served in Jahazi. One thing to bear in mind is that menus are heavily dependant on what is delivered to Medjumbe that day. Our breakfast one morning is compromised by a disrupted delivery, although the staff do their best to work around the issue. Evening drinks are also served with a side of sea and sand at Bahari Lounge Bar. The resort’s overall aesthetic is one of laid-back beach-cool; think white-washed wooden beams, woven rugs, bright cushions and neutral tiling. Each room has the beach
on its doorstep, a mini private pool, a sundeck and an outdoor shower. Each villa can accommodate two people and comes fully equipped with mini bar, VIP amenities such as fruit platter and local chocolates, and WiFi - although this is sketchy at best. But a lack of communication with the outside world only serves to make Medjumbe’s guests that little bit more relaxed. We move onto part two of our African adventure feeling carefree and rejuvenated.
T H E R OYA L L I V I N G STO N E
Our second home-from-home is The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara. To get here, a quick car ride takes us from Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport to the shore of the Zambezi river where a zippy water taxi launches us upstream. Like a scene from an Ian Fleming novel we serpentine at speed across the vast river, spotting a herd of sun-basking hippopotamus en route, before enjoying a lavish lunch on the hotel’s terrace. Sitting quite literally on the river bank, we spend our first evening on the sundeck with cocktail in hands watching the ferocious African sun sink behind the Zambezi. This is followed by a gin masterclass in The Travellers Bar, a room that oozes Old World charm with a huge, polished mahogany bar, low-slung harbour wing chairs and vintage leather travel trunks tottering high upon library shelves. Finally it’s a three-course dinner in the dining room where guests can enjoy European and indigenous dishes plated up with modern sophistication. The British Colonial-style interiors carry through to the bedrooms which come with their own butler, on-duty 24/7 to bring you fresh cookies and to wish you good morning. From the private veranda zebra can be spotted roaming the gardens but if you venture out further into the grounds there’s every chance you’ll happen upon feeding time. One fortuatious afternoon we bumped into a wildlife whisperer of sorts who led us into a clearing to watch
DELUXE ROOM AT THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE HOTEL
four giraffes and three times as many zebra eating their lunch. The Royal Livingstone is also home to monkeys; one cheeky grey chap steals half of our afternoon tea, while others can be seen messing around above the pool. The hotel’s trump card though is the fact that it has Victoria Falls essentially in its back garden. Just 15 minutes away by foot, it's possible to hear the thundering of the water and see its spray from the sundeck. The hotel encourages guests to come and go as they please to this spectacular site. Sunrise is one of the most brilliant times to visit if you can drag yourself out of bed. Undoubtedly the best way to see the falls is by microlight flight, which can be organised very easily by The Royal Livingstone. This spectacular experience offers jaw-dropping views of the falls by way of a tiny unique motor bike-cum-plane that is unhindered by windows or wings. The exhilarating 15-minute ‘Flight of the Angels’ trip takes you over the falls themselves, offering views of the thundering Zambezi River and its many inhabitants (crocs, hippos, eagles and elephants) before coming back in to land. It really is a once-in-alifetime experience that shouldn't go a miss and comes at the end of a spectacular trip. From sunshine, white sand and sea to textbook African landcape, these Anantara properties are worlds apart but similar in the way they deliver on excellence. Backto-back the trip was exceptional but even better would be to visit individually; twice as long and twice the holiday.
T H E R OYA L L I V I N G S TO N H OT E L Nightly rates at The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara start from £465 per room on a bed and breakfast basis. anantara.com
M E DJ U M B E P R I VAT E I S L A N D Nightly rates at Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort start from £840 per room on an all inclusive basis. anantara.com
THE ROYAL LIVINGSTONE SPA OVERLOOKS THE ZAMBEZI RIVER
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Life at your own pace.
Exceptional villas, local knowledge, personal service thethinkingtraveller.com +44 (0)20 7377 8518 S I C I LY •
PUGLIA •
IONIAN ISLANDS
SPORADES ISLANDS •
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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION
RICHARD JUHLIN
50 Shades of Smell ichard Juhlin is incredibly gifted, born with the world's best ability to smell and taste any kind of beverage. Champagne is his passion; he is the world's number one expert and independent critic. His unique ability and photographic sense of smell allows him to remember every Champagne he has ever tasted, this now being over 10,000. In 2003 at the annual Spectacle du Monde in Paris, Swedish-born Richard Juhlin shocked the entire world when he and accurately stated the brand, the producer, the type of grapes and the year of 43 out of the 50 champagnes. The runner-up, a French former sommelier world champion, managed to only correctly identify four Champagnes. Richard has written four awardwinning books about champagne and with his most recent one invented the concept of Champagne Hiking; The 100 best champagnes to drink at the top 100 Locations in the world. Why champagnes taste best at a specific time, in a specific place and how surroundings plays a big part when tasting a wine. As the world's foremost champagne expert he was assigned to the rescue project in July 2010 of the buried treasure of 168 Champagne bottles found in a shipwreck in the Baltic Sea. Richard claims that the Baltic Sea floor proves an ideal wine cellar, with the right temperatures, total darkness and enough pressure to keep the corks in. A bottle of Veuve Clicquot, nearly 200 years old, was part of the booty dating to between 1825 and 1830: that bottle later fetched 30,000 euros at auction.
R
The Ultimate Champagne
CRUISE Join the Ultimate Champagne cruise on 1 December
T
o Celebrate 2018 as an exceptional Vintage year in Champagne, thechampagneguru have teamed up with the Nr 1 Champagne Champion Richard Juhlin and award-winning sommelier Bjornstierne Antonson for an Exclusive Prestige Champagnes and food pairing cruise on the River Thames in London. This rare VIP event will take place on a unique Art Deco boat with a Gatsby-themed interior during a five-hour cruise trip where guests will be treated to a champagne reception and a gastronomic six-course meal where the gourmet dishes are each being paired to a prestige Champagne. The evening will end with more Champagne
from the bar and a live DJ music set on the upper deck while floating past some of the most iconic buildings along the River Thames. The event will be co-hosted by Richard Juhlin, who will be sharing his expertise and talking about the concept behind his latest book Champagne Hiking. In addition to this ultimate experience, guests will receive a signed copy of his latest book and a set of 6 Optimum Italesse glasses specifically designed by Richard Juhlin to be the optimal glass suited for champagne. For bookings please visit our web site thechampagneguru.com or book directly on eventbrite.co.uk (Event ref 50527854172) alternatively contact the champagneguru directly on thechampagneguru@gmail.com; tel: +44 (0)7956124806
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Discover Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi Guaranteed sunshine, excellent beaches, classy resorts and numerous attractions - plus a relatively short flight time - all add up to make Abu Dhabi top of the ‘must visit’ list for 2019. Saadiyat Island is Abu Dhabi’s premier beach destination. It’s seen a lot of changes in the last year: the highly anticipated Louvre Abu Dhabi has opened to much critical acclaim, whilst a handful of impressive five-star hotels have emerged along the shoreline. The city is only 5 minutes drive away, although you’d be forgiven for wanting to remain at the beach for your entire holiday given its outstanding beauty and amenities. Time it right, and you could even witness the unforgettable moment when endangered Hawksbill turtles begin to hatch and make their way to the sea. Call us today on 0208 329 2679 and speak to a member of our team – who have just returned from experiencing everything Abu Dhabi has to offer – and we’ll happily share some first-hand recommendations.
SAVE 35%
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5 Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas
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Call 0208 329 2679 or visit www.letsgo2.com Prices are per person based on two people sharing. Available on various departures between 1 - 31 March 2019. Subject to availability. For full T&Cs visit letsgo2.com. Prices correct as of 22/10/2018.
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TRUSTED MERCHANT 2018
22/10/2018 17:05
I
n its stunning location, The Artist Residence provides guests with fantastic views of both the ocean and the iconic west pier. The hotel interior forms a buzzing section of the Brighton art scene. When co-founder Justin set up the hotel he advertised for artists to decorate rooms in return for board, hence the hotel’s name and the walls, floors and ceilings being covered top-to-toe in striking murals. The hotel also plays host to a locally-esteemed cocktail bar, The Fix. This means guests can tumble out of bed and down the stairs to sip cocktails alongside Brighton natives and travellers alike.
THE ROOM
T
he cosy and characterful bedrooms are nicely accessorised with artwork and rustic furniture, and come complete with all the modern comforts you'd expect from an upscale stay. A joyful discovery was that the cupboards were generously loaded with beautiful bath products and edible goodies. We enjoy the fluffy dressing gown, Nespresso coffee machine, fully-stocked bar and complimentary nibbles.
WHERE TO EAT
W
e wondered the streets of Brighton in search of some of
the seaside town's best eateries. Lanes, Pascere is a high-end restaurant boasting atmospheric outdoor dining and the best wine list (Brighton Best Restaurants, 2018). We stopped by for a chilled glass of Portuguese dry white and some exceptional basil, ricotta and lemon gnudi. 64 Degrees is a sleek, open-kitchen style restaurant, where eclectic small plates are made to be shared. The menu changes on a daily basis to reflect the season’s produce. However, if available, choose the phenomenal venison carpaccio with confit yolk and walnuts and the sumptuous, salty and saucy brill, kale, caviar. Sister to the award-winning 64 degrees, Murmur is a laid back beach bar located within The Arches on Brighton’s seafront. Visit for stylish modern interiors and cool waiters serving red wine, Poole Bay ponzo-dressed oysters, and juicy steak frites out on the terrace.
WHAT TO DO
B
weekend
THE HOTEL
DESTINATIONS
TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY
righton is not short of things to see and do. Once I dragged myself out of the comfort of my room I headed to Brighton Lanes, the heart of the city’s historic quarter. The maze of alleyways is a feast of independent music, jewellery and vintage clothes shops to explore. After a morning in the lanes an afternoon on the seafront is a must. Strolling along, I see everything: swimmers, drinkers, dancers, cyclists and basketball players. My walk strategically winds up in time to watch the sunset.
THE ARTIST RESIDENCE BRIGHTON
Sun, seafood and secret bars in Brighton ByM I R I A M CA R EY
Room only rates from £90 per night ARTIST RESIDENCE 34 Regency Square, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2FJ 01273 324302 artistresidence.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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luxe
LIFE
Nana Princess is the jewel in the crown of Crete, blending contemporary luxury with Greece’s renowned hospitality. Absolutely books a stay… B y J E S S I C A S H A LT O U T
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TRAVEL • EUROPE
N
ana Princess is a brand new hotel situated on a sea-view slope just outside Hersonissos, 30-minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to find, just off a main road, and only a short walk to nearby shops and restaurants. We felt slightly dubious as we arrived at the hotel, at the thought of a new hotel that may be finding its way and experiencing teething problems but we needn’t have worried; everything was covered. From the moment we pulled up in the car park, to when we left, we enjoyed every moment of our stay at Nana Princess. The hotel is a collection of black stone walls, rather monumental glass buildings, and green grass roofs, all overlooking the deep blue sea. It has a traditional village
With a private pool, gym, steam room and living area, we didn’t need to leave the suite style feel, so as you wander around it doesn’t necessarily feel like your usual hotel resort, but more like a collection of high-end apartments. On the resort, there is a private beach, two heated pools, three restaurant and a spa, so we had plenty to keep us entertained. Nana Princess has 112 rooms and villas, all of which overlook the sea. We were lucky enough to stay in the Ambassador Wellbeing suite and it was impressive. With its own private pool, gym, steam room and living area, we didn’t need to leave the suite. What was most impressive in our suite was the smart technology; it was clear that this was an area that had been invested in. There were buttons for everything! Curtains, lights, doors, you name it. And to top it all off, bathrooms have chromotherapy lighting and LCD mirror televisions. Suddenly shower-time takes on a whole new level of entertainment, especially, if like us, you are travelling with a baby - it’s the ultimate baby sensory experience. For others travelling with a family, there are suites with multiple bedrooms and guests may also make use of the facilities at sister property Nana Beach Hotel next door, such as a kids club, three floodlit tennis courts, a scuba diving centre and open air amphitheatre. There are three restaurants on the complex, A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The Foundation for Perfection Manufacturers of Fine Parquet & Inlay flooring Bespoke flooring • Engineered wood flooring Range of soft carpets • Add robust tiles to your kitchen
For beautiful new flooring that will last, give us a call on 020 8543 9083 258 - 260 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB
abbotswoodflooring.co.uk
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TRAVEL • EUROPE
and the food here is excellent. Breakfast includes lots of cold cuts (salmon, cheeses), cereals (fruit, cereals and nuts), plenty of pastries, and a hot station for omelettes. Plus an a-la-carte menu if the buffet does not satisfy. Because we were travelling with a little one, which can make evening meal times tricky, we took full advantage of the room service, although it didn’t feel like we were in our room - waiters transform your room into a full-on dining experience with tablecloth, silverware, flowers, and even a complimentary glass of bubbles, which made evening meal times by our pool one of our favourite times of day. It would be quite easy to spend all your time here, with your feet up by the pool, but if you do decide to venture out, Crete has lots to offer. The largest of the Greek islands, it is an enchanting hub of sleepy, traditional villages, luxury modern resorts, ancient history and sun-drenched beaches. Heraklion, the capital and largest city in Crete, is a short drive away and worth a visit. Primarily a port city, it also has a wealth of archeology and history; the Iráklio Archaeological Museum is amazing. Also close by is the Arkadíou Monastry or
you can jump on a boat to visit the ruined buildings of Spinalonga Island. As our time here drew to a close, we decided to take advantage of the spa, which is is a bit of a show-stopper. As well as the usual steam room, sauna and pool there are high-tech Nuvola treatment beds, a Finnish sauna, aromatherapy showers, beautiful treatment rooms and relaxation areas – and even a solarium. The offer of treatments is vast and we indulged in their signature range which includes relaxation in the steam room, followed by a body scrub and and massage. Our therapist was excellent, skilled in her work and a perfect balance between providing useful information but allowing us to relax. Definitely worth a visit and not too pricey either. Nana Princess is probably the most luxurious resort in Crete and I’m sure we’ll be going back. It’s high-tech smart-technology and spectacular ‘space age’ spa sit amongst a traditional stone-built property, all overlooking the sparkling mediterranean. It’s the perfect place to relax.
An enchanting hub of sleepy, villages, luxury resorts and ancient history
NANA PRINCESS Rates start from €155 /£135* per person per night in a Superior room category. Booking: Call +30-28970301000 *Price in Pound Sterling is according to today’s exchange rate nanaprincess.gr
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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MADE IN GERMANY TO MEET YOUR DESIGN NEEDS Built in Kitchen Specialist
• KITCHENS REVOLUTION.APR.indd 1
Kitchen Revolutions Ltd 580 Kingston Road, Wimbledon SW20 8DR T 020 3302 6266 E info@kitchenrevolutions.co.uk W www.kitchenrevolutions.co.uk WE ARE OPEN Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm | Sun 11am - 4pm
17/04/2018 16:45
PROPERTY Living the Dream 124
PARK LOFTS SW2
ÂŁ3,000 PCM
stylishly designed property, resulting in a modern and distinctive home arranged over four floors. Featuring unique spiral staircases, exposed beams and wood flooring, and a large decked roof terrace with panoramic views of the London skyline. The property is conveniently located for the local amenities of both Abbeville Village and Brixton Village, with a number of good transport links close by.
A
KNIGHT FRANK Clapham 020 3542 3526 harry.anthony@knightfrank.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The house with the pool.
6
6
3
Clapham Common North Side, SW4 • An extraordinary home designed to the highest of standards • Offering unique, grand proportions of almost 7,000 sq ft • With bespoke joinery, hand crafted marble and a handmade kitchen The property is enviably located opposite Clapham Common with the charming Clapham Old Town moments away offeringn an abundance of boutique shops, cafes and delicatessens.
Our Clapham expert, Rebecca Higgins, looks forward to helping you. rebecca.higgins@knightfrank.com 020 8115 4912 07876 056 100
knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly. Price available on request
Freehold
Move Did you know? We sell and let homes just like yours, every day. Knight Frank Battersea Unit C1 Vista 346 Queenstown Road London SW11 8BY 020 8033 9673 battersea@knightfrank.com
We’d love to help you. knightfrank.com
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Connecting people & property, perfectly.
25/10/2018 26/09/2018 09:15 13:36
Connecting people & property, perfectly. Broxash Road, Clapham SW11 2
1
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• Bi folding doors leading to garden • Natural light flows throughout • Ideally situated Between the Commons A stylish, contemporary home with a cleverly designed reception area, providing fantastic entertaining space. Guide price £570 per week Available unfurnished
harry.anthony@knightfrank.com 020 8022 6491
Park Lofts, Brixton SW2 3
3
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• Exposed beams and wood flooring • Peaceful roof terrace • Panoramic views of the London skyline Thoughtfully designed, this property is a modern and distinctive home arranged over four floors. Guide price £3,000 per calendar month Available furnished
harry.anthony@knightfrank.com 020 8022 6491
All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. There will also be a £48 charge to register your deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if applicable. (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www.knightfrank.co.uk/tenantfees. Knight Frank is a member of the ARLA Client Money Protection Scheme and our redress scheme for consumers is Property Redress Scheme.
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Did you know?
70% of all prime London developments are for sale with Knight Frank.
Kingwood at 55 Hans Place, Knightsbridge: a development by Finchatton
Register with us for the widest choice of exceptional new homes. We’d love to help you. Contact Rupert des Forges, Head of Prime Central London Developments, on +44 20 3463 0234
knightfrank.co.uk Statistic based on developments that Knight Frank are directly mandated on in London zone 1 at an average list price in excess of ÂŁ2,000/sq ft.
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Tower House, Wimbledon
£5,950,000
An attractively presented Grade II listed Victorian house located in a tranquil and private setting. Reception hall, 3 reception rooms, study, beautiful kitchen, conservatory/family room, 6 bedrooms (7incl staff flat), 7 bathrooms (8 incl staff flat), 3 dressing rooms, 1 bedroom staff flat, 90’ landscaped southerly garden, 2 garages and gated off-street parking.
Wimbledon Village 020 8947 9833 • ROBERT HOLMES.indd 1
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www.robertholmes.co.uk
Maris House, Wimbledon Common
ÂŁ4,250,000
A unique home of immense charm and character quietly nestled between Wimbledon Common and Cannizaro Park with lovely views from the upper floors. Galleried reception hall, 3 reception rooms, study, conservatory, kitchen, utility room and sauna, 3 bedroom suites, 3-4 further bedrooms, family bathroom, potential ground floor annexe, landscaped garden, double and single garages and drive ER/D.
Offices also in Coombe & Mayfair • ROBERT HOLMES.indd 2
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LIVING THE
DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market
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LUMIERE APARTMENTS
SW 1 1 , £2,8 00 PER MO NTH
C
onverted from a Grade II Listed 1930s cinema, this luxury penthouse apartment features a large open-plan reception room, two double bedrooms and a large roof terrace with views over the area's surrounding green space. Less than five minutes by foot from Clapham Junction, residents have fantastic access to central London and Clapham’s wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars. FEATHERSTONE LEIGH Battersea, 020 7228 2378 featherstoneleigh.co.uk
LOMBARD WHARF SW 1 1 , £59 9,9 9 9
T
his extraordinary riverside onebedroom apartment is positioned within the newly built Lombard Wharf in Battersea. The contemporary, curved walls create a striking living room, opening on to a sizeable private balcony overlooking the Thames. Residents are just a short walk from Clapham Junction, with trains to Victoria taking just six minutes, and nine minutes to Waterloo. FEATHERSTONE LEIGH Battersea, 020 7228 2278 featherstoneleigh.co.uk 1
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A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET
EMBANKMENT, PUTNEY SW 1 5, £ 2 , 4 5 0,0 0 0
SW 1 1 , G U I D E : £ 1 , 5 0 0 PW
A
T
KFH
KNIGHT FRANK
West Putney, 020 8785 2122 kfh.co.uk
Battersea, 020 3866 2925 Jack.alisiroglu@knightfank.com
beautifully presented, fourstorey Victorian home in an enviable location overlooking the River Thames. The property comprises of four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two neatly-finished reception rooms and a bright and spacious kitchen and dining room. Situated in a prime West Putney location, just moments away from Putney High Street and a short walk from Putney Bridge station.
ALFRED ROAD
THE BRIDGE
his fantastic penthouse apartment has floor-to-ceiling windows allowing for a flow of natural light and a great atmosphere. The large reception and dining room is perfect for entertaining as well as offering a great relaxation space. The kitchen has been finished to a very high standard with built in appliances. All three double bedrooms have ample built in storage space.
K T 1 , £ 7 75 ,0 0 0
T
his impressive newbuild three bedroom semi-detached home has been designed to create modern, stylish interiors and comfortable living. Sleek carpets, tiled bathrooms and modern kitchen appliances add charm to the property, with three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a landscaped garden. Located close to both Kingston and Surbiton train stations, with Richmond Park nearby.
DESIGNED TO CREATE MODERN, STYLISH INTERIORS AND COMFORTABLE LIVING
KFH
Kingston, 020 8939 8191 kfh.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Honeywell Road
£2,895,000
This absolutely stunning double fronted detached Victorian house has been completely refurbished by the current owners to an extremely high standard. The building has been cleverly redesigned and behind the classic Victorian façade there is an extremely impressive contemporary interior.
Five double bedrooms • Reception room • Kitchen dining room • Gymnasium/Playroom • Study & media room • Ensuite bathroom • Shower room & Family bathroom • Dressing room/ 5th bedroom • Wine Cellar • Garden
Earlsfield Road
£1,625,000
A superb opportunity to acquire this five-bedroom family house with a substantial garden measuring approximately 80 ft. The property has been beautifully finished and has an excellent sense of light and space throughout, with grand proportions in all the principal rooms.
Five double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/dining room • Family bathroom • Two en suite bathrooms • Large landscaped garden • Off-street parking
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25/10/2018 12:03
Stonemasons Yard
£1,250,000
A rare opportunity to purchase a stunning four bedroom house situated within an exclusive gated development moments from Wandsworth Common, complete with a secure off street parking space. The development was built in 2011 and the property boasts a high standard of finish inside and out.
Four bedrooms • Reception room • Kitchen • Family bathroom with separate shower • En suite bathroom • Garden • Underfloor heating • Secure gated development • Off street parking
Morrison Street
£975,000
A stunning three bedroom house positioned on a highly regarded street in the heart of the Shaftesbury Estate. The charming property is presented in excellent decorative order throughout and with a wonderful feeling of light and space and retains lots of its original character.
Three bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen breakfast room • Family bathroom • Ensuite shower room • Eaves storage • Garden
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Donate any unwanted winter coats to help keep vulnerable Londoners warm Drop off your winter coats at any Chestertons branch this November Find your nearest branch on chestertons.com Please only do so whilst the branch is open. All coats in clean and good condition are welcome.
#Igavewarmly
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K I N G S H A L L R OA D | B E C K E N H A M | B R 3 1 F D
Bower Place brings together three beautifully designed homes in one stunning location. The prestigious new detached homes enjoy at least Âź acre plots all within an exclusive gated community. Located on the highly soughtafter Kings Hall Road, the properties provide the perfect balance between living amongst mature trees and parkland but with a two minute walk to nearby New Beckenham Station.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES info@bowerplace.co.uk 01737 236 150 bowerplace.co.uk
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LINDORE ROAD, LONDON Stunning three bedroom duplex apartment set within a grand period house ideally located between The Commons. The property comprises, three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a separate kitchen which opens onto a balcony and a large bright reception room. EPC = D
3
2
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GUIDE PRICE
£899,950 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278
VICARAGE CRESCENT, LONDON Nestled on quiet Battersea street, Cleary Court was originally launched as a collection of townhouses and apartments set with a private gated mews finished to an impeccable standard throughout. A three bedroom house with an entire basement floor. EPC = B
3
2
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GUIDE PRICE
£1,100,000 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278
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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea
Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond
Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston
featherstoneleigh.co.uk
STONELLS ROAD, LONDON Stunning Victorian four bedroom house on a tranquil cobbled mews, situated between the commons. Accommodation comprises of three double bedrooms, one single bedroom, with a double reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, family bathroom and further shower room. Stonells Road is within walking distance of the highly desirable Honeywell school, along with the popular Northcote Road. Early viewings are highly recommended. Available beginning of January. EPC = C
GUIDE PRICE
ÂŁ3,700 PCM
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BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278
25/10/2018 11:55
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Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi
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23/10/2018 17:15