Aspire Spring 2014

.co.uk

South West London's Leading Estate Agent

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Offices  Balham Offi ce 132 Balham High Road, London, SW12 9AA

Clapham South Office 53 Abbeville Road, London, SW4 9JX

020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

Fulham Central Office 226 Munster Road, London, SW6 6AZ

020 8675 1222 s.clapham@aspire.co.uk

Furzedown/Tooting Office 020 8769 7900 58 Moyser Road, London, furzedown@aspire.co.uk SW16 6SQ





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020 7381 7381 c.fulham@aspire.co.uk



28/01/2014 12:31

 Fulham South Offi ce 122 Wandsworth Bridge Road, London, SW6 2TF

020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

Battersea Office 242 Battersea Bridge 020 7801 3400 Road, London, SW11 3AA battersea@aspire.co.uk 

 Clapham North offi ce 44 Clapham High Street, London, SW4 7UR

020 7840 3700 n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

 Property Management Dept Balham 132 Balham High Road, London, SW12 9AA

020 8772 6300 management@aspire.co.uk

 Property Management Dept Fulham 122 Wandsworth Bridge Road, London, SW6 2TF

020 3010 1123 propman@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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W

elcome to the first 2014 edition of the aspire Property and Lifestyle magazine. We have recently celebrated our tenth birthday and 2014 is set to be our most exciting and potentially successful year to date. Our company and team has grown from just one office with one department and fi ve staff at the start of 2004 to seven offices with fi ve departments and an amazing team of fi fty-four experienced people. For southwest London, 2013 was an extremely busy time; as the year progressed, demand for homes was not matched by an increase in supply, leading to some exceptional price rises with many sales being achieved well in excess of the initial guide or asking price. Boris Johnson recently raised the minimum target for new housing in London targeting 42,000 new homes to be built each year. However, we all know that SW London with its wonderful, predominantly Victorian streets, is unlikely to reveal additional space for a huge increase in stock. With interest rates set to remain low for the foreseeable future we believe, along with most other forecasters, that 2014 will continue to see growth, albeit at a much reduced rate than the double digit % increases of 2013.

Lettings in 2013 was a story of two halves, with the first two quarters showing an excess of supply leading to a slight downward pressure on rents; this was then followed by a recovery in values as demand increased and new properties started to slow up. In comparison, 2014 has started extremely buoyantly with, at the time of writing, new lets in January already showing a significant increase on the same period last year.

With many people registering each day, it is important for us to know as much as possible about our customers. As we pride ourselves on being a specialist local agent with offices in your neighbourhood, you might expect most people who register with us to be based locally or at least in the UK; however, we have a significant percentage of buyers and potential tenants who start their search from many other countries - 89 different countries, in fact! This all goes to show that you don’t have to be a global corporate agent to have a wide reach these days. By keeping our website smart, well promoted and, above all, easy to use we have created an additional virtual office that has no boundaries. It is imperative to us that your property, whether selling or letting, reaches the largest possible audience it can find, to ensure that we have the greatest chance of achieving your goal. It is this blend of exceptional local knowledge, combined with the backing of worldwide enquiries, which has proved to be a great success for us.

Please do pop into your local neighbourhood office for any advice you might need. Whether your house is suitable for another local family looking for their next home, an overseas family being relocated to London, or a UK or overseas investor, we can and will succeed for you.

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

Contents

06

How To - Moving House

07

Interior Inspirations

08 - 09

Community News

10 - 15

Balham VS Battersea

16 - 17

Eating Out

18-19

Profile

21

Recipe

22 - 23

Il Molino

24 - 25

Food News

26 - 29

Bespoke Design

30 - 65

Property

66 - 67

Ask the Expert

Taking the hassle out of moving with Indigo Moves

Keep it simple: embrace the monochrome trend

News and events from your area

- Social - Habitat - Case Studies

Restaurateur Joe Lambert’s philosophy on locally sourced fresh produce

Director of aspire Tom Ward shares his experiences from photography to property

Perfect puddings and killer cocktails

Inside Battersea’s best boutique café

Discovering Tooting Bec’s blooming food scene

CATO Design talk designing the ideal home

aspire’s guide to the finest homes in south west london

Predictions for the new year with Matthew Carter, director of aspire

.co.uk

CONTENTS.2.indd 3

29/01/2014 15:17

How To

Move Smooth

Indigo Moves offer their expert advice on how to avoid the moving blues.

M

oving can be a stressful time for even the calmest of people - have I packed everything properly? Do I know my completion time and when I can pick up my new keys? Have I remembered all the children?

Tempting as it is to think ‘I can move all this myself’, the issues

to start work, and that you are there at the allotted time.

of moving house can be magnified when you haven’t got the

Whether you are moving yourself or using a company, it is

luxury of handing the heavy lifting over to the professionals.

important to know when you can get into your new house.

But whether you’re gearing up for your first move and want to

Sort out with your solicitor when you’ll be able to pick up the

know the ins and outs, or you’re considering using a removal

keys and you’ll get the job done faster and smoother.

company for the first time, Indigo Moves director Harry Capehorn talks us through the trials and tribulations.

We don’t charge extra for waiting between completion times (although many do), but knowing roughly when you can get into a house means everyone can get to work quicker and

The build-up:

more productively.

And finally, when disassembling furniture, keep all the

With moving house deemed to be right up there with divorce as

nuts and bolts safe so you’ll still have a bed, drawers and

one of life’s most stressful experiences, it’s little wonder that

wardrobes when you get to the other end!

the weeks before your move date can lead to many a sleepless night. Spread the workload by packing early - in some cases as much as three weeks in advance - to minimise its impact on your life. If you’re using a removals company, check their references, insurance and even vehicles and storage facilities (you can’t be too careful!). See if they offer a packing service

Harry Capehorn, Director/Manager of Indigo Moves

- the extra fee may be worth it to save you having to pack into the early hours or take costly time off work to get it all done.

People often underestimate the packing materials they need – make sure you have plenty as trips to a “box shop” take up precious time. It also helps to ensure the boxes are properly marked with their contents and designated room – it saves you rooting through every box for the essentials when you get to your new home.

About Indigo Moves’ main man:

H

arry Capehorn has been in the renovation and removal trades for over 10 years. He and his team blend industry experience and a great professionalism with a friendly, approachable

manner that’s ideal for lightening the mood on this busy, and often manic, day.

The big day: 07854 654 337, If you have decided to go down the removal men route, ensure

www.indigomoves.com

the company knows when they can get in to your house

hello@indigomoves.com

06

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Interior Inspiration

7

4

2

1

Monochrome Magic

Keep it simple with clean lines and block colours this spring

3 5

6

1. Alexander Waterworth Interiors, alexanderwaterworthinteriors.com, 2. Metropolitan Chair by Einar Larsen & Bender Madsen, £2,800, 73.5x75x54cm; sigmarlondon.com 3. Serge Mouille Clamp Lamp, £5,687, 69x48cm; 1stdibs.com 4. FBC Evolution Side Table, £5,930, 57x44cm; fbc-london.com 5. Modernist Steel Table by Rose Uniacke, £7,800, 200x80x75cm; roseuniacke.com 6. George III Library Armchair, £7,685,110x80x83cm; 1stdibs.com 7. Hermes ‘Finish’ Fabric, Hermes Fabric: £175 per m, 100% Cotton; uk.hermes.com

.co.uk

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Community News

aspire in the

Community First Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Christmas Carol Concert sponsored by aspire is a ‘Pawsome’ Success

A

Christmas Carol Concert, held by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and sponsored by aspire – with Battersea’s special Dog Guard of Honour greeting guests as they arrive – was hailed as a ‘pawsome’ success. Held for the first time on December 11th in the winter

wonderland of St Luke’s Church, Sydney Street the event attracted dog-loving celebrity guests including designer Julien Macdonald and his Strictly dance partner Janette Manrara, actor Anthony Head and Made in Chelsea’s Cheska Hull. All funds raised from the concert will go towards caring for the centre’s lost and abandoned animals at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Mark Howell, Director of our Battersea aspire office comments, “Sponsoring Battersea Dogs & Cats Home seemed a perfect fit with aspire as we are both in the business of providing a sense of belonging, of community and of family by finding the perfect home. We were delighted that the Christmas Carol event was such a lovely occasion and was so well attended by the local community and dog lovers. Supporting local enterprises, charities, schools and special events is a vital part of our role as a local business and we are particularly pleased to be involved with such

08

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a worthy organisation – we hope our continued support

a variety of composers. David Kirkup, director of aspire’s

will help keep it thriving.” The Home’s adorable rescue dogs

Clapham office remarked, “We were delighted to be the main

stayed throughout the concert to enjoy the festive carols lead

sponsors of such an interesting programme and were

by the Collegium Musicum of London Chamber Choir. The

thrilled that the response to the performances were so

concert also featured a special Christmas reading of ‘Twas

favourable – we are pleased that it created such a lot of

The Night Before Christmas’ by actress Caroline Quentin,

interest amongst local people.”

adapted especially for the event with a doggie twist. Guests

Examples of audience feedback on the Bel Canto Recital

were served mince pies and mulled wine and were given the

ranged from, “What a stunning first night! We were blown

opportunity to remember a beloved pet by writing their name

away. We loved the choice of music and the costumes.

on a bauble which will be on the Home’s Christmas tree.

Altogether a divine evening,” to, “Exciting first night; Bel Canto bites sung with verve and gusto in beautiful church setting and with scented programmes!” All the concerts were designed to act as a taster for people to discover various forms of opera and maybe revisit them elsewhere or as recordings. It is hoped that this will become a popular annual event in Clapham. The festival was founded by an established local resident, Marie Soulier who has been running Opera Pour Un Salon successfully for 5 years, offering recitals in the home and Adam Swann who is a marketing consultant for Opera Rara, the record label recording rare 19th century opera as well as being a Trustee of baroque ensemble Arcangelo. Marie who is also the festival’s artistic director comments, “The Festival is about enjoying the music without feeling the need to have learned about it.” Artists include promising young talent from the Royal Opera House, English National Opera, Guildhall

“A blinder of a first night!”

School of Music and Drama, Royal Academy of Music, Royal

First performance of Clapham Opera Festival hailed as a great triumph

www.claphamoperafestival.wordpress.com

T

College of Music and Glyndebourne. a worthy organisation – we hope our continued support will help keep it thriving.”. 

For further information visit:

he Clapham Opera Festival was met with a very positive response from attendees of the event which took place over October and November last year. The aims of the festival (founded last year) are to support and promote up-and-coming singers,

musicians and production designers and to bring opera to the local community for whom it may be a new experience.

Response to bookings was tremendous among local residents and families, according to aspire who are ‘Friends of the Festival’ and provided backing and resources to support the event. Under an overall theme of Love, the concerts showcased different styles of opera from

.co.uk

YES COMMUNITY NEWS.indd 3

28/01/2014 15:38

Social

Balham 

VS

Lifestyle

Wide-open spaces and meeting places in Balham Nestled between three commons, Balham residents have a choice of where to walk, relax or meet friends. Balham has been up and coming for several years and it is now considered a prime south London property hotspot offering fantastic bars, restaurants and cafes.

While families flock to Balham for the schools, young professionals are attracted by the great social scene, from Bertie and Boo’s coffee shop to the hugely popular Bedford Pub, right in Balham’s heart. Modern gastronomic delights coincide with smart Victorian houses, terraces and conversions, not forgetting the Art Deco Du Cane Court – one of the largest private apartment blocks in Europe.



Social Scene

A vibrant community feel to Balham Balham has a diverse and active social scene, riding off the back of the popularity of Clapham, with a growing number of smart bars and swish restaurants that add a vibrant community feel. Lamberts is a modern British restaurant in the High Road and Balham Bowls Club - a former working man’s club but now a retro hangout - is perfect for a pint or Sunday Roast. Two minutes walk from Balham Underground is the B@1 Bar known for its friendly staff and power ballads and Balham also has its own boutique cinema, The Exhibit, which caters for up to 24 people. The Commons are all a social focus for sporty outdoor activities playing host to fitness boot-camps, active meet-ups for young parents and the start-line for the London to Brighton cycle ride.



Crowd

The sophisticated set and young starters in Balham Quieter than neighbouring Clapham and with an older demographic, Balham is home to many established families who choose the area because they get more for their money.

Younger professionals are also drawn to the more affordable one or two bed conversion flats or purpose built apartments where they can take full advantage of the local eateries and watering holes. Balham has been home to a range of celebrities from fashion designer Vivienne Westwood to sports commentator Jimmy Hill and John O’Sullivan – scriptwriter for Only Fools and Horses.

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28/01/2014 16:50

V S Battersea

Balham & Battersea are two flourishing areas of SW London. Our directors Clifford Harvey and Mark Howell, give us their views on why both areas have become such popular places to live.





Lifestyle

Tree-lined streets and architechtural gems in Battersea From the green open spaces of Battersea Park on one side and Clapham Common on the other, it has a country feel despite its central London location. There are plenty of period houses on tree-lined streets with grand Edwardian villas, Victorian mansion blocks and pretty terraces, through to the contemporary riverside apartments such as the Albion Riverside. The regeneration zone around the 450-acre site of the iconic Power Station will bring thousands of new homes, parks and promenades to the area making it one of the most fashionable residential addresses in the capital.



Social scene

A cultural, relaxed scene in Battersea The social scene in Battersea has something for everyone, from sporting activities in the park and good shopping on Northcote Road or nearby King’s Road, to a busy night life just across the bridge. Families can be found spending their weekends at the Prince Albert and Draft House pubs, whilst young professionals frequent the trendy Doodle Bar, Bar Social or Gail’s café on Northcote Road, which serves great coffee and pastries. The sporting scene is also extensive, ranging from Fitness First gyms or the Latchmere Leisure Centre as well as a plethora of smaller clubs. With the Royal College of Dance and the new arrival of the Royal College of Art at Battersea Bridge Road, positioned amongst the many art and design galleries, there is a real cultural buzz to the area.



Crowd

Families and young professionals of Battersea Battersea has a similar crowd, with its predominantly older demographic, but nevertheless still vibrant and active. Young professionals looking to buy or rent their first flats favour the one and two bedroom Victorian conversion flats situated close to Battersea Park and the Kings Road and also in the roads off Northcote Road. Families look to the period properties, such as the large five to six bed houses on Kersley Street and Brynmaer and the large houses surrounding Clapham Common. Some famous faces that can be spied amongst the residents there are musician Will Young and Sir Bob Geldof.

A diverse range of celebrity residents demonstrate Battersea’s broad appeal.

.co.uk

SOCIAL.indd 3

29/01/2014 13:13

Habitat

Balham 

VS

Striking the balance between fashionable first flats and elegant established homes in Balham

First time buyers or young professionals tend to focus around ‘central’ Balham or Bedford Hill for lower property prices, with the typical two bed flat starting at £450,000. Between the High Road and Battersea’s Nightingale Lane, resides the exclusive and affluent ‘Nightingale Triangle’ – home to young and established families offering good schools and late Victorian and early Edwardian houses with period features and good space in- and outside. The larger family houses are priced upwards of £1million. Perfect for people who want easy access to London, Balham is on the Northern Line with Bank and London Bridge only 20 minutes away and the National Rail Station takes you to Victoria in 15 minutes. In fact many commuters cycle to the City as it is only just over five miles away.

Laitwood Road, SW12

Verran Road, SW12

£625,000

£759,950

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28/01/2014 16:58

V S Battersea 



Balham & Battersea have acquired a fashionable urban address in recent years

Taking advantage of Battersea’s ever-improving transport links and fabulous schools

There is a similar spread of residents across the area to Balham, corresponding to a similar separation of prices between one/two bed flats and large family houses. A one bedroom flat can sell from £250,000 to £500,00, dependent on location, whilst a larger family house can be upwards of £2.5-3 million. Overland trains from Clapham Junction travel to London Waterloo in ten minutes and London Victoria in seven minutes with good/fast connections to the City. There are underground stations at Battersea Park and nearby Queenstown Road. A Northern Line extension and a new Thames bridge connecting Battersea to the Pimlico waterfront will make other parts of London even more accessible to the residents of Battersea. Both Balham & Battersea play host to active French communities by virtue of the popular French Schools in each, which adds to the vibrancy of the atmosphere in both areas.

Ascencis Tower, SW18

Southside Quarter, SW11

£1,295,000

£800 PER WEEK

.co.uk

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28/01/2014 16:59

Case studies

Balham

VS

£ per square foot £1,000.00

£800.00 £600.00

£400.00 £200.00 £0.00 Battersea

Balham £per sq ft av fam house now £750 min

Average £per sq ft for a house is circa £900

A direct comparison is demonstrated here for two similar family orientated areas in the same borough. The graph represents how much space one can buy in either area and clearly shows that the average family home in Battersea is about 20% more expensive per square foot than the same property in Balham.

% of Ground Floor Flats compared to First Floor Flats

35% 65%

Balham Split in favour of ground floor flats as opposed to first floor

 Ground floor  First floor

25% 65%

Battersea In favour of first floor against ground floor

The pie charts above demonstrate that Upper Flats are more abundant in both areas. Why? Vendors are more likely to retain their garden flats for a longer period of time as there is less need to move when starting a family and in turn, they provide a great rental investment and perhaps more summers like 2013 will only make this trend more prevalent!

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CASE STUDIES.indd 2

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V S Battersea Average size of garden (length in feet)

40 30

20 10 0 Battersea

Balham Av garden size 35ft

Average garden size 20ft

Balham appears to offer almost twice the average garden size compared to Battersea a clear indication that the street design and spacing of the houses in each area differ significantly and could also signify that the average size of the houses in Balham tend to be larger with more significant footprints.

Quantity of Leashold properties compared to Share of Freehold properties

40%

 Share of Freehold / FH 60%

Balham SOF F/H VS Lease is roughly in favour of leasehold.

38% 62%

 Leasehold

Battersea In favour of leasehold to freehold

There is a similar share of freehold tenured properties in both Balham and Battersea showing that the trend to purchase a share in your freehold started at a similar time in both areas. As London property values have grown over the past decade the potential ‘marriage value’ of lease extensions or an outright freehold purchase have also grown significantly.

.co.uk

CASE STUDIES.indd 3

29/01/2014 14:48

Eating Out

Ethical Eats

at Lamberts Joe Lambert tells us why he sometimes has to change dishes at the drop of a hat in order to ensure he serves the best produce in the best possible condition

L

ong before Joe Lambert opened his restaurant 11 years

warming issue. It is now the norm for restaurateurs to name

ago he knew it would offer British seasonal food.

check suppliers and use the practice as a PR device; 11 years ago

Passionate about ethical produce and maintaining the

however, this wasn’t the case. Many of Joe’s suppliers have been

countryside, his approach is all about trying to use only

with him since the start and he has a close relationship with them

the finest seasonal ingredients. Joe has stuck to this ideal even though the reality of sourcing good British ingredients – using

and without them, his dishes just wouldn’t be the same.

Sustainably sourced fish come from local supplier Murray’s

local suppliers, many of them small family firms - has been far

Fresh Fish who source fish from day boats out of Brixham,

harder than he ever imagined. There simply is not enough to go

Bideford and Milford Haven. Lamberts regulars eagerly anticipate

round and so dishes sometimes change at very short notice, due

the Game season and game from the Denham Estate in Suffolk

to supply or weather conditions. This passion for small producers

is second to none. With rare-breed lamb, beef and pork from

came initially through a search for quality. Small, passionate

Richard Vaughan’s Huntsham Court Farm in Herefordshire and the

suppliers tend not to be financially motivated; the zeal they

fantastic Herdwick Lamb and Mutton from Lake District Farmers,

put into their product - whether its fishing or farming - always

they have everything covered. Joe also wants to showcase the

comes through in the taste and quality. This quest for quality

diversity available in British produce as well as minimising his

has had some fantastic side effects in terms of ethical and

own carbon footprint. He not only offers fish from sustainable

economic benefits for the local economy and the wider global

stocks found in the waters around the UK but refuses to include caviar, cod, salmon (farmed, organic or Alaskan) or trawled fish on his menu (which is a method that has had a detrimental effect on other stocks and the environment). Some of his suppliers are organic but Joe would rather use premium ingredients grown in the UK than organic ones which have either been flown half way around the world from poor farmers, or trucked over from southern Europe with less, but still significant, environmental impact. Joe firmly believes that we need to encourage more sustainable agriculture and ensure we are able to meet the growing demand for good, honest, natural food at home. He is not saying he is perfect but he feels that it is worth doing something rather than nothing at all.

020 8675 2233, www.lambertsrestaurant.com 2, Station Parade, Balham High Road, London SW12 9AZ

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28/01/2014 16:30

Profile

Profile Agent



Tom Ward discusses a passion for photography and property

A

t school, Tom Ward, Director of aspire’s Fulham

only then that I really learned about being an estate agent

office, was a straight A student in the arts subjects

and not just a sales negotiator.” Armed with these skills and

with a particular leaning towards photography.

experiences, Tom joined aspire in 2009 and within a year

Choosing to pursue this passion at a higher level he

became a director and area manager. He has successfully

embarked on a photography degree at the Chelsea College

grown market share, quadrupling business over the last

of Art and Design and after graduating, Tom landed himself

four years and is backed by an excellent and hard- working

a role as assistant on high brand fashion shoots for a large

team. Tom says the brand and working environment make

photography studio. For a few years, he enjoyed the dynamics

aspire a great place to be; “Everyone is here because they

of fashion photography and the vibrancy of dealing with high

want to be, we are in the office early because we all want

profile brands. After a while, however, he became increasingly

to be and there is a genuine desire to do the best for the

aware that the industry was not only highly competitive but

client.” Tom enjoys giving impartial advice, too – whether it

that long term career prospects were not secure - he knew at

is beneficial to aspire or not – as in the long term it is ‘good

this point he needed a change of career.

relationships which pay dividends’. Tom is fortunate that

Tom had friends in the property market – friends who spoke

one of his oldest friends is also a partner in the business ;

enthusiastically about their working environment – and so he

“We can bounce ideas off one another and provide support,

applied for a position as sales negotiator at a large corporate

which is good.” Although Tom is no stranger to Fulham,

agency based in Chelsea. It soon became clear this was the

having spent his childhood years growing up in the area, he

career for him; whilst branding and quality photography play

particularly enjoys being an integral part of the local area,

important roles in the estate agency business, it was the ‘art

“I can walk down the street to grab a coffee and invariably

form’ of communication that really played to his strengths.

stop and chat to a few people along the way – it feels like a

Tom explains, “Estate agency is about talking to people,

real community.” Whilst his main focus is the business, Tom

dealing with a variety of personality types and a different

is, at heart, a family man and relishes spending time with

set of individual needs every day – I knew this was something

his wife and growing brood – his second daughter is due in

I not only enjoyed, but I was good at too. Plus, it translates

Spring and, wherever possible, he also indulges in his other

well to my own ethos – of people not properties and of

interest - playing blues guitar!

looking after the faces and not the bricks and mortar.” After

Tom loves his job and wants to continue to grow the

two years of learning the ropes and establishing himself as

business to make it as professional as it can be; he believes

a strong sales negotiator, he moved to a small independent,

he has reached a very contented stage in life and wishes for

heading up its two offices in the Fulham area. “I joined the

little else, other than perhaps his ideal car - an early 60s E

company at a tough time –market conditions were difficult

type Jaguar in mint condition!

and the challenge was immense.” Over the next few years, the business grew and Tom developed professionally, too. “It was

tom.ward@aspire.co.uk

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

Tom Ward

Director of aspire, Fulham

.co.uk

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28/01/2014 15:26

ADVT-INDIGO MOVES.indd 2

29/01/2014 09:53

Recipe

Optional decoration: A heap of sugared dates, stuffed with pecans (brush the dates with egg white and roll in granulated sugar). Fresh sprigs of mint or if you can find them, Provençal glacé apricots. Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas mark 2 and prepare the baking sheets and rings. Put the egg whites and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and whisk to combine. Turn up the speed to full and whisk for about 10 minutes until the mixture forms stiff peaks when you draw a spoon through it. Fold the chopped pecans and dried fruits into the meringue, making sure they are evenly distributed. Place a cake ring on each baking sheet and spoon an even amount of the mixture into them. Smooth the surface with a spatula but lift it quickly in places to create little peaks that will look crisp and delicious when the cake is finished.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the cakes are pale brown.

They may crack in places but it does not matter. Allow both cakes to cool completely, then turn one cake carefully over

Recipe: Fruit pecan macaroon 

Serves 6–8

and place it on a cake stand or plate. Spread the cream all over the surface, then add your chosen fruit. Cover with the second cake, lifting it on carefully so as not to crack it.

Recipe from THE POCKET BAKERY by Rose Prince, published in hardback by Weidenfeld & Nicolson at £18.99.

Equipment •

2 x 30cm/12-inch square baking sheets, lined

Cocktail: Negroni

with baking parchment •

2 x 23cm/9-inch cake rings, lightly greased with

Ingredients

groundnut or sunflower oil • Ingredients •

4 egg whites

•

250g/9oz golden icing sugar, sifted

•

90g/3oz pecan nuts, finely chopped

•

90g/3oz dried apricots, finely chopped

•

90g/3oz dates, finely chopped

25 ml Tanqueray no. ten gin

•

25 ml Campari

•

25 ml Martini rosso vermouth

•

a slice of lemon (or grapefruit), to garnish

Stir all the ingredients over cubed ice for 60 seconds, then For the filling: 300ml/10fl oz double cream, whipped

strain into a chilled rocks glass with cubed ice (or use a large

250g/9oz fresh fruit – exotic fruit pulp seems to match this

hand-cracked piece of ice). Garnish with a slice of lemon.

well. For winter: lychees (shelled and stoned), pomegranate seeds, passion fruit flesh. For summer: ripe green or black

The Curious Bartender by Tristan Stephenson

figs, fresh ripe apricots, slices of ripe yellow peaches

with photography by Addie Chinn

.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK.RHP.indd 3

28/01/2014 16:00

IL Molino

The

Il Molino way The story behind artisanal Battersea café Il Molino

I

scones and biscuits alongside many regular and herbal teas. Beautiful and personalized birthday cakes can be pre-ordered in advance as well as authentic Italian loaf breads. The breakfast menu offers a good

l Molino was established in 2005 in Battersea Park Road.

range of high quality Viennoiseries or, as a healthy

At that time, the owner, Carlo, was a main partner and

alternative, there are Granolas or Oats served with

contributor to the success of another prestigious chain

nuts and fresh fruits, yoghurt, soya milk as well as

called Café Brera, which started in Canary Wharf back in

with fresh juices and smoothies.

1991. Il Molino, Battersea Park Road and now the second

Il Molino’s bestseller, the coffee, is a secret blend of

one - located at the Old pharmacy on 155 Lavender Hill - both follow a concept of high quality products and its own unique coffee served in traditional surroundings with a welcoming atmosphere. Both cafes offer delicious homemade food, specializing in Mediterranean salads, sandwiches made with rustic Italian

Arabica and other beans

“Quality is of the essence at Il Molino and the devoted and friendly staff, headed by the manager Teresa, make a huge effort to deliver an efficient and polite service.”

breads, harvest pies, soups and

carefully selected and roasted. Each type of bean is roasted to a different degree in order to deliver a smooth, creamy and sweet blend. Quality is of the essence at Il Molino and the devoted and friendly staff, headed by

lasagne. Vegetarian and gluten and wheat free products

the manager Teresa, make a huge effort to deliver an

are also available for special diets. Loyalty cards come

efficient and polite service The two charming boutique

as a bonus for returning and loyal customers. Afternoon

cafés are a great success and a third Molino may be on

tea provides a great selection of traditional English cakes,

its way in the very near future!

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The

Review Mark Howell, director of aspire Battersea shares his passion for coffee and why Il Molino has become his favourite local haunt. 

I

f there is one thing in this world I love, it is a lovely cup of freshly ground coffee. This is the very reason I initially explored Il Molino café on Battersea Park Road just over a year ago. When entering the café I was greeted by a warm smile from all the

staff behind the counter. Whilst I joined the queue of local residents I noticed delicious homemade pastries and cakes as well as a great selection of sandwiches, paninis and salads. I found myself leaving with an armful of said cakes and pastries, as well a selection of coffees for the team.

Since that first day I now pop in to Il Molino every week. It is our Monday morning stop-off point for coffees and breakfast for the morning meeting, but also serves as a meeting point for clients. One client in particular - who is from Sardinia - commented how authentically Italian the cafe felt, which is the highest accolade in my opinion.

There are many different options to choose from in Il Molino. I must say my personal favourites are the Piadinas (flat bread with a variety of fillings), the homemade custard tarts, which are delightful and the range of salads which are all readily available. When I am in on a Saturday, the bagels with cream cheese and salmon are a must and, of course, a lovely coffee to wash it down.

Mark Howell 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk Il Molino 020 7350 2035 284 Battersea Park Rd, London SW11 3BT

.co.uk

il MOLINO.2.indd 3

29/01/2014 13:10

Food News

No Need to Curry Favour – Tooting Beckons All Iain Selwyn-Reeves explores the ever-expanding gastronomic landscape of Tooting/Furzedown and gives aspire his pick of the bunch.

A

The recently opened ‘Naked Loaf’ - a small family run bakery - in the Furzedown area of Tooting, is providing residents with freshly made artisanal bread, using hand crafting techniques. Starting in his kitchen at home, proprietor Juan quickly built up an online following, delivering freshly baked sourdough loaves to SW London residents.

Having outgrown his kitchen, he has moved into premises on Moyser Road and is drawing crowds from all parts of SW London.

ccording to the Evening Standard, Tooting is the new Shoreditch. The report suggests that ‘Tooting is fast becoming one of London’s hippest districts and that the smart crowd is now heading south of the river to SW17’. There is definitely a buzz around

Tooting that wasn’t there a few years ago. Tooting’s growing ‘hip’ reputation is complemented by the rising popularity of its near neighbour Balham, which last year was named as the country’s most sought after place to live. Tooting was always the place to go if you wanted a good curry and it certainly doesn’t disappoint on that front. However, nowadays its residents do not have to go far afield if they fancy something else, with new bars and restaurants opening up to cater for the changing face of the area, together with artisanal bakers, brewers and independent coffee shops.

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New eateries are opening regularly, particularly in the Tooting Graveney area which is seeing much rejuvenation at present with latest addition ‘The Chicken Shop’ - an independent restaurant from the Soho House Group - challenging some of the mass market high street restaurants. Right in the heart of Tooting Broadway is ‘Tota’, serving simple delicious food using top notch ingredients and, expanding from its small yet successful premises in Tooting Bec, is ‘Meza’, serving delicious Lebanese hot and cold meze as well as original touches in familiar dishes.

If cocktails are your thing, then head down to the ‘Little Bar’.

Owned and run by Furzedown resident and former food and drink editor of the Independent Newspaper, Madeline Lim, it serves up an eclectic mix of cocktails, local beers and simple but tasty bar snacks. May the food revival in Tooting continue- it is no longer just about curry!

.co.uk

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Bespoke Design 26

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Dreamhouse CATO Creative, a successful local architectural, interior design and project management company tell us why they love creating the perfect home

.co.uk

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28/01/2014 15:31

Bespoke Design 

What are the headwinds and trends in the market at the

moment? There is an ever-widening housing gap and location remains important. International buying by wealthy individuals has driven the London market at the top. This has caused a ripple effect in Fulham with more French and Italians moving to the area. Coupled with this, buyers are searching for a sound investment opportunity in a vibrant place, and as a result in 2013, price appreciation in Fulham outperformed that of Kensington and Chelsea.

The lack of supply, the economy and job security are major factors to house owners staying put. The ever-increasing cost of moving with stamp duty and VAT are also contributors. It is still cheaper to extend and create your dream home.

The proportion of refurbishments and redevelopments is on the increase, which is not surprising, as despite the Government’s ‘Help to Buy’ scheme, finance remains difficult. As a result, the proportion of redevelopments has risen at the expense of home sales and relocations. Outdated layouts are surrendering to loft conversions, kitchen side returns and basements – all of which are popular with new and old residents. Not only is extending and refurbishing cost effective it satisfies the needs of growing families who need more space. 

What makes Fulham unique? Social trends are changing real

estate – since the 2008 crash, Fulham has seen an increase in young, savvy, up and coming, well connected professionals along with international buyers – it has become a cool place to be. The growing interest and confidence presents new challenges for those trying to access the Fulham market as demand still outstrips supply. Buyers seek flexible and contemporary homes that work as a sociable family home and a calming retreat. Central to this is the creation of spaces that accommodate how the family live – as adults, children and as a unit. Many often require a family room, cinema, gym, master suite, children’s area and plenty of bedrooms, including space for a nanny.

More and more, buyers are passionate about their homes going way beyond just kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms.

Technology, material, flexibility and storage have a big impact on both modern and classic design. Fulham’s location lends itself to professionals, couples and growing families all seeking

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additional space and the benefits of the local infrastructure

we make the design and refurbishment process as enjoyable

with an abundance of good schools, shops, restaurants/bars

as it can be, providing them with everything they need without

and services, accessibility to the Kings Road, West End and

making their home overcomplicated or fussy. Most importantly

City and community feel.

we produce homes for living in, that are personal to the people who live there.



What does CATO Creative offer? Cato recognize the

requirements of modern day living; with a design philosophy



based on mixing styles and understanding the client’s

Enthusiasm is infectious. When one ambitious owner moves

The best bits of our job:

ambition. We aim to inspire and infuse our projects with

in, the neighbours also get house-proud. The pictures within

creativity, understanding the need for space, light, zoning and

this article demonstrate an example of how CATO creative

practicality combined with the ‘wow’ factor! We see more

can change the image of the street. We started with a tired,

than just a building; we listen, adapt and ultimately create

unloved mid terrace split into two flats. The new owner

brilliant and interesting homes.

wanted to return it back to a single dwelling with a traditional look outside and contemporary living inside. We hope you like



Why use a local provider such as CATO creative?

CATO creative are a one-stop shop. The team design, source

it, the neighbours did. So far we have refurbished three houses on this street with the fourth on schedule to start in March.

and fit, as well as project manage everything. This includes all planning, party wall awards and building control. The vast

CATO create beautiful homes for living. If you’re planning a

majority of our work is referral and we work predominantly in

refurbishment we would be delighted to meet you to see

the Fulham area.

how we can help and provide detailed concept budgets for your project.

We know how to overcome challenges such as providing a bespoke service at an affordable price, fire safety,

hello@catocreative.com

soundproofing and saving energy. Working with our clients

020 7385 4066

.co.uk

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28/01/2014 15:32

Laitwood Road SW12 A super four bedroom mid-terraced family home in this sought-after residential street in central Balham.

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FOR SALE £1,075,000 020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Carminia Road SW17 A classic four bedroom, two bathroom family home on a quiet residential street in the heart of the sought-after Heaver Estate.

FOR SALE £1,300,000 020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

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.co.uk

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Fernlea Road SW12 A fantastic three/four bedroom ground floor conversion flat offering ample living accommodation, converted basement with extra guests/play room, beautiful garden and minutes walk to Balham Tube Station.

TO LET £650 PER WEEK 020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

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FOR SALE £1,650,000 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

York Mansions Prince of Wales Drive SW11 A well proportioned top floor apartment situated in this desirable mansion block with direct park views.

.co.uk

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SOLD £2,600,000 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

Henderson Road SW18 “aspire was with us every step of the way. They may be small and busy, but their undivided and personal attention was such as to beguile us into believing that we were their only and best ever customer. I take my hat off to their team for their wise advice, good humour and speed of response to all eventualities.” Mr T

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.co.uk

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Taybridge Road SW11 “We have been incredibly pleased with aspire’s service- The personnel are always very helpful and flexible.” Mr J

LET £900 PER WEEK 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Abbeville Road SW4

FOR SALE £1,899,950

An extremely well presented large six bedroom

020 8675 1222

family house in the heart of the Abbeville Village.

s.clapham@aspire.co.uk

This spacious property benefits from six double

020 7840 3700

bedrooms and a large garden

n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Welmar Mews SW4 Situated in a secure gated development and forming part of a converted piano factory this exceptional two bedroom property has recently been renovated to a very high standard.

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FOR SALE OIEO £895,000 020 8675 1222 s.clapham@aspire.co.uk 020 7840 3700 n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Kingswood Road SW2 Located on a quiet residential road this recently refurbished four bedroom property offers a surprising amount of space with a double reception room and a large kitchen with double doors leading on to the garden.

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FOR SALE £899,950 020 8675 1222 s.clapham@aspire.co.uk 020 7840 3700 n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Caldervale Road SW4 This delightful five bedroom house is located on one of the best roads in the Abbeville Village.

The property is arranged over three floors offering extensive family accommodation.

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FOR SALE £1,595,000 020 8675 1222 s.clapham@aspire.co.uk 020 7840 3700 n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Park Hill SW4

TO LET

This stunning six bedroom detached property offers

£1,750 PER WEEK

outstanding accommodation presented to the

020 8675 1222

highest of standards. Offering substantial living and

s.clapham@aspire.co.uk

entertaining accommodation there is also a self-

020 7840 3700

contained annex and off street parking.

n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Abbeville Road SW4 Presented to a high standard this bright first floor two bedroom flat has a fabulous reception room with high ceilings, wooden floors and ample space for entertaining. The property was recently fully refurbished.

FOR SALE £649,950 020 8675 1222 s.clapham@aspire.co.uk 020 7840 3700 n.clapham@aspire.co.uk

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TO LET £850 PER WEEK 020 7381 7381 c.fulham@aspire.co.uk

Mablethorpe Road SW6 This fantastic four bedroom house has been fully refurbished providing bi-folding glass doors extending the newly refurbished kitchen onto a private decked garden.

.co.uk

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Settrington Road SW6 A totally re-built house of 2,500 sq ft plus two south facing roof terraces having absolutely stunning views directly over South Park.

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UNDER OFFER £2,650,000 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Settrington Road SW6 54 01

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.co.uk

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New King’s Road SW6 Located with a stone’s throw to the village green, Parsons Green is this completely renovated top floor flat offering the most amazing interior design.

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FOR SALE £1,250,000 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Cranbury Road SW6 A spectacular family home arranged over four floors offering four double bedrooms and the most amazing basement including a contemporary kitchen and a games room section.

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FOR SALE £1,495,000 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Hazlebury Road SW6 Offering over 1600 sq ft, this fabulous family home has been developed with an elegant style and a good balance of entertaining and living space in mind.

TO LET £900 PER WEEK 020 7736 6110 fulham@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Welham Road SW16 A stunning three bedroom first floor maisonette, with two reception rooms and private garden. Located within the Graveney and Penwortham Schools catchment area this property is presented to the highest standard.

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TO LET £381 PER WEEK 020 8769 7900 furzedown@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Crowborough Road SW17 A fantastic newly refurbished three bedroom house finished to a very high standard close to Tooting Broadway. This delightful property offers three bedrooms, family bathroom, a large through reception, large kitchen and garden.

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FOR SALE £675,000 020 8769 7900 furzedown@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

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Ask the expert 66

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Ask The

Expert Matthew Carter, director of aspire, gives us his forecast for the property market over the first six months of 2014, why prices are set to grow in Clapham and some tips for those planning to sell their property.

Can you tell us about the state of the property market in

benefi t from a small extension to expand the kitchen into an

Clapham at the end of 2013? We entered the last quarter of

open plan living area, whilst turning the lounge into another

2013 with very little stock and an insatiable demand amongst

bedroom. Sellers can add as much as £75k to the property

buyers in Clapham and neighbouring Brixton. The Christmas

value by doing this.

period can often bring a sea change or brief lull in activity

• Think about paving a front garden to provide off street parking

but we witnessed little difference with a constant stream of

(STPP) for a fairly small spend you can add as much as £30k to

enquiries over the latter part of December. Average price rises

the asking price and broaden the appeal of your property.

in our area averaged 10% during the last six months of 2013,

• Try and present as a ‘show home’ – take the time to de-

and 18% through the whole of the year, largely driven by a

clutter tidy and generally make the appearance as pleasant and

dearth of properties for those seeking new homes.

welcoming as possible.



• Make communal areas as presentable as possible - First 

What do you expect to see in the Clapham market during the

appearances do count.

first half of 2014? The big challenge in the first few months of

• Kitchens and bathrooms sell a property – if you want to invest

2014 is having enough supply to meet demand – so the housing

some money, use it towards updating the kitchen. If you can’t

market predictions currently look very buoyant. We anticipate

stretch to a new one then replace the tiles, worktops, handles

further increases – with a traditional peak in March and April,

and taps.

our advice to buyers is to start looking now. In our particular

• Seek planning permission for a loft conversion – if you have

patch, which is centred round Clapham North, but extends to

access to and space in the loft for conversion this will add

Clapham South and Brixton, the market looks strong,

appeal when it comes to selling your property.

especially when you factor in the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme.

Approximately 80% of our properties are fl ats and some areas



that used to be trade-off patches are now just as sought after;

We have had an office in this part of Clapham for 15 years

That is all very useful. Why should sellers consider aspire?

hence we have witnessed strong growth on the Brixton side of

and all of our staff are extremely experienced and live in the

Clapham as well as Brixton itself and we expect this trend to

area. We also have a number of neighbouring offices in whom

continue. We recommend all our clients have an open day with

we work closely with we take a very hands-on approach to

at least a ten day lead time to generate good levels of interest.

the business and feel that providing fantastic service and

We would expect this to generate 5/6 offers.

building a trusting relationship with the client is the recipe for a successful transaction. Unlike most agents in the area, we



So it is very much a sellers’ market. Is there any advice

are able to offer a no tie-in contract as we are confident will be

you would give to make a property even more attractive to

offering the best service and ultimately, will secure the best

potential buyers? Yes, there are quite a few things we would

price on the property.

strongly recommend: • To add real value consider the possibility of turning a one

020 7840 3700

bed into a two bed fl at. A typical garden fl at, for instance, may

matthew.carter@aspire.co.uk

.co.uk

ASK THE EXPERT.2.indd 3

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WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME aspireconcierge “such a simple but effective idea that has been so useful for us since moving, I only hope we aren’t overusing you! Thanks so much again” C.P. Dec 2013

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