ABSOLUTELY
APRIL 2012 £3.95
Chelsea
A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT TABLE TALK WITH RUTH ROGERS
SAATCHI ON TOUR SOLE TRADER EN POINTE WITH FRENCH SOLE’S JANE WINKWORTH
THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO DAVID LIFE LESSONS WITH VISCOUNT LINLEY
Rock Out THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST JEWELLERY
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THE PAX COLLECTION
PEACE IN EVERY LANGUAGE FROM £75
ALL DESIGNS © THEO FENNELL
FINE JEWELLERY IN SILVER
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LO N D O N • 16 9 F U LH AM ROA D • HA R R ODS • S E L F R IDGE S • R OY A L E X CHA NGE MA NCHE ST E R • H ARVE Y N I C H O L S • F OR UK A ND W OR L DW IDE S T OCK IS T S P L E A S E CON TA C T 0 2 0 7 5 91 5 0 0 0 W W W .T HE OF E NNE L L .COM
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CONTENTS
EDITOR’S LETTER ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top ten this month
STYLE 21
CLOSET CONFIDENTIAL Eye-poppingly bright denims
22
FASHION NOTES
29
BEAUTY PRODUCTS
33
BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL
Claudia Sebire, lovely lace & Logue London Absolutely’s best beauty buys of the month
Beauty news and tips
52
CHAIN REACTION Rock the season’s heavy metals
ARTS AND CULTURE 37 41
42
HERE COMES THE SUN
FOOD & TRAVEL
46
A SKETCHY PAST
83
CARLUCCIO’S WAY
49
ART OF THE MATTER
86
RESTAURANT REVIEWS
63
BY THE BOOK
89
FOOD NOTES
MEN IN RED
91
ESCAPE
PEOPLE
92
URBAN RETREAT
25
JANE WINKWORTH
95
71
RUTH ROGERS
WELCOME TO MIAMI
99
TRAVEL NOTES
66
The fabulous sundialist David Harber
A brief history of The London Sketch Club
Saatchi curates at the Hyatt Regency
The top ten independent local bookstores A year in pictures at The Royal Hospital
The creative force behind French Sole
Katy Jarratt meets the indomitable chef
101 ABSOLUTELY SOCIAL Missoni’s Sloane Street bash
INTERIORS 75
IN THE HOT SEAT
WHAT’S ON
76
INTERIORINSPIRATIONS
PREVIEW
78
Our local culture diary
This month’s highlights
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8 of the best... chairs
The best trends, gems and designers this month
DIARY OF A DESIGNER A brief encounter with David Linley
On the permanence of Italian cuisine
We dig in at Meursault and Demoiselle Great taste and tea for two...
We check in to The Olde Bell, Hurley Three of the best city breaks
David Vincent uncovers Miami’s art scene
Four Seasons openings, diving in the east and sardine migration in South Africa
PROPERTY 119 PROPERTY NEWS 122 IN THEIR OWN WORDS Tim Macpherson from Carter Jonas on the property outlook for 2012
128 FABULOUS FULHAM & CHARMING CHELSEA
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ABSOLUTELY APRIL 2012
EDITOR’S LETTER
‘A
good painting to me has always been like a friend. It keeps me company, comforts and inspires.’ So the actress Hedy Lamarr once sagely pronounced, and – after a night spent at the new Saatchi-curated limitededition suite at The Hyatt Regency this month - I could not be in sounder agreement. Pushing boundaries as ever, the gallery has moved in some of its collection both to the suite and to the lobby and restaurant to challenge the accepted norm of banal inoffensive ‘artwork’ in hotels, to start a discussion and to give guests a rare chance to live with and sleep surrounded by contemporary art. Read more about it on p.45. Another Chelsea stalwart whose raison d’etre is the creation and celebration of art is the little-known but utterly exceptional London Sketch Club. Since it was founded in 1898, it has welcomed an (all-male) elite of the brilliantly bohemian and the excellently eccentric, from Phil May to Charlie Chaplin, Robert Baden Powell to Arthur Conan Doyle. Read about one of Chelsea’s best-guarded secrets on p.42. Elsewhere, in preparation for next month’s Chelsea Flower Show, I met up with exhibitor David Harber, a gifted sculptor and sundialist (p.48), while Katy Jarratt went to meet the super dedicated ex-New Yorker and River Café’s chef extraordinaire Ruth Rogers (p.71). I do hope you enjoy this issue, and the very welcome start of British summertime.
Nancy Alsop Editor FIND US ON FACEBOOK ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ AND TWITTER ‘ABSOLUTELY_MAGS’
DAVID LINLEY
CONTRIBUTORS
David founded David Linley & Co – now ‘LINLEY’ – in 1985. Encouraged by his parents (eminent photographer Lord Snowdon and the late Princess Margaret), he has authored books, lectured around the world and is chairman of Christie’s UK. He lives in London with his wife Serena and their two children (and dogs Shaggy and Smudge).
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DAVID VINCENT David writes about travel, fashion and future thinking for the Guardian, UK Harper’s Bazaar and Gourmet Traveller. Career high: his article on 140 years of American Harper’s Bazaar being nominated for an American Society of Magazine Editors award. Low point: sharing a bed with George Best. The two wrote a column together for two years.
30/03/2012 21:59
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ABSOLUTELY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Harriet Compston EDITOR Nancy Alsop EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Katie Randall ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Charlie Tiptaft BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Greg Cole GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR Alexandra Hunter CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER Anna Hutton-Potts HEAD OF DESIGN Ray Searle SENIOR DESIGNERS Lisa Wade, Stewart Hyde PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lauren Giles FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid MARKETING MANAGER Jessica Batten MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout For editorial enquiries please email: editorial@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscriptions@zest-media.com. You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 6 & 12 months, £15 and £25 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.
Published by ZEST MEDIA LONDON 213 WESTBOURNE STUDIOS ACKLAM ROAD W10 5JJ T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 Zest Media London Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media London Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.
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AUSTIQUE’S SUMMER COLLECTION
We are all aquiver with excitement over Austique’s S/S12 collection. We’re channeling our inner sēnorita with sizzling red mini dresses such as this Chloe version, and cool maxis in eye-poppingly bright colours… Barcelona here we come… austique.co.uk
10 things we
Absolutely JO MALONE HOME SCENT
LOVE
The go-to brand for unswervingly delicious hand washes, creams et al has launched a new home scent line. We’re a tiny bit in love with the sachets and drawer liners in lime, basil and mandarin as our clothes are permeated with the scent of summer. £30; jomalone.co.uk
LILLY HASTEDT JEWELLERY
We are big fans of Lilly Hastedt’s eminently wearable, elegantly simple and often jaunty jewellery. We’re especially enamoured of the ‘Bon Bon’ collection and are already coveting her Polo enamel cufflinks for our menfolk… lillyhastedt.com
PAUL AND JOE’S FELINE BLUSHERS
To mark its tenth anniversary, cool cats Paul and Joe pay homage to the feline world, inspired by designer Sophie Albou’s love of cats. We are purring with delight at this face and eye colour package, £19.50, in ‘Kittycat’. Miaow. Available at asos.com and Harrods, harrods.com
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STYLE BLOODY MARY MENU AT THE BALCON Grand Parisian brasserie stylings? Check. Exquisite charcuterie? Check. Sublime mélange of French and British cuisine? Check. If we didn’t love The Balcon already, its new Sunday Bloody Mary lunch menu would have made us instant devotees. Chef Vincent Ménager’s excellent and hearty roasts are accompanied by Belvedere’s new Bloody Mary Vodka, infused with tomato, horseradish, black pepper, lemon, chilli and peppers. Quite the most stylish hangover cure in town. thebalconlondon.com
BUTLER AND WILSON
METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART JEWELLERY BOX
Just about our favourite place for playing dress up in our manor... it’s been going since 1969 when Nicky Butler and Simon Wilson started their stall at Antiquarius on the King’s Road before setting up shop on Fulham Road in 1972. Where better for accessorising this season’s roaring twenties look? butlerandwilson.co.uk
What’s better than having a box full of your finest jewels on the dressing table? Why, one that is as exquisite as the jewels themselves, of course. David Linley’s one-off Swiss pear and cherry with grey sycamore rosewood box and ebony inlays is based on Richard Morris’s 1902 original architectural designs for the New York Met and comes complete with Corinthian columns and mouldings in miniature. We want! £24,000 (of which £5,500 will be donated to the museum); davidlinley.com
JAMIE HEWLETT FOR ABSOLUT VODKA
Dandyism, Savile Row-styling and – most timely – Dickensian London… Jamie Hewlitt references the lot in his limitededition Absolut Vodka bottle design, now on sale at Harvey Nichols. He of Gorillaz fame is the latest to join the roll call of artists – which has included Damien Hirst and Louise Bourgeois – to collaborate on the drink’s global ‘Cities’ campaign. Absolut Limited Edition Vodka, bottle drawn by Jamie Hewlett, £20.99, at Harvey Nichols harveynichols.com
LOKUM ISTANBUL BOXES
We’re head-over-heels for Lokum Istanbul’s divine boxes which contain a mix of some our favourite things in life: Turkish Delight (of the proper variety), bespoke stationary cards, fragrances and candles inspired by the Bosphorous. Its founder Zeynep C Keyman has even had American Vogue compare her to Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, no less. Lokum Istanbul, 95 Walton St, SW3; lokumistanbul.co.uk
ISSA LONDON SWIMWEAR AT STRIP
STRIP Wax and Lingerie Boutiques get a shot of Brazilian glam via a new Issa London capsule collection. The Daniella Helayel-designed suits are inspired by Matisse’s ‘seconde vie’, his phase of using only the boldest primary colours. We’ll see you on the beach in our favourite, this ‘Colour-Block swimsuit’. £242; stripwaxbar.com 19
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L O N D O N . N O R F O L K . S U F F O L K . E S S E X . H E RT F O R D S H I R E
590 KINGS ROAD LONDON SW6 2DX
www.shopatanna.com
STYLE
7 FOR ALL MANKIND
Skinny light drill stretch jean in powder £180; my-wardrobe.com
J BRAND
811 in neon purple, £220, and Equipment blouse, £235 Both at donnaida.com
Rainbow bright
JUICY COUTURE
Cropped low-rise skinny jeans. £145; juicycouture.com
Bright, bold and patterened... the denims de jour
MICHAEL KORS Metallic mid-rise skinny jeans £150; michaelkors.com
RAG AND BONE Goetz printed mid-rise skinny jeans £210; net-a-porter.com
ANTHROPOLOGIE JOE’S JEANS The Skinny Jeans £189; harrods.com
AG polka dot ‘Ankle Stevie’ £148; anthropologie.com
WHISTLES
Charlie-coloured skinnies £80; whistles.co.uk 21
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STYLE
BEST OF BRITISH Ex-Morgan Stanley high flyer Emma Logue started her eponymous label when she commissioned a local seamstress to make her an easy-to-wear capsule wardrobe using only British fabrics. The compliments rolled in and - voila - the Knightsbridgebased LOGUE, with its signature button-throughs and kick-pleats was born, much to our sartorial gain. loguelondon.com
FASHION NOTES Updates from the catwalks and couturiers LACY LADY
FIGURE FIXERS
Ever since Kate Middleton glided down the aisle, her arms and shoulders sheathed in elegant lace, the world has taken its cue from her. Erdem, Gaultier, Stella McCartney… each one has kept pace in the lace stakes. But while the world knew that the dress the Duchess wore one year ago was a McQueen number, fewer realise that the lace was made by Sophie Hallette, the leading maker of that most delicate of materials. Now New York bridal designer Enchanted Atelier has used the French artisan for its latest collection, including this 1920s-inspired ‘Dauphine’ lace cap, a selection of which is available to buy at Brown’s. sophiehallette.fr; brownsfashion.com
Sally Allen-Gerard’s eureka moment came to her on a Knightsbridge shopping jaunt when she unsuccessfully scoured its glut of boutiques for the perfect pair of jeans. In the spirit of Spanx – beloved of Gwyneth et al – she launched Wizard Jeans, which are designed to give support in all the right places. Styles range from mid-rise to boot-cut to skinny, in sizes 6 – 20. Muffin tops be gone! From £125; wizardjeans.com
something right – Claudia Sebire celebrates her quarter of a century in the business this year.
BOUTIQUE-IN-BRIEF CLAUDIA SEBIRE, 136 FULHAM ROAD, SW10 020 7835 1327
THE IDEA
The go-to place for welledited wardrobe staples and key pieces from a plethora of designers, pitched at all sorts of budgets. It’s the ultimate neighbourhood boutique. And they are clearly doing
THE USP German founder Sebire specialises in stocking the best designers from her motherland, many of them exclusive to the shop. She says: ‘Each season I choose colour stories and directional pieces that are pulled together with beautiful accessories for my clients.’ THE BUY Strenesse, Marc Cain, Trixi Schober and Rena Lange are just a handful of the designers represented, and, even better, for 2012 she is working on a new e-commerce site, which is tailored to each client.
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STYLE
IF THE SHOE FITS Absolutely talks style with the ultimate Chelsea girl and founder of French Sole Jane Winkworth The ballet flats for which you are renowned have become embedded in the fashion psyche. What is it that has made them such a roaring success? It’s down to the fact that as the originator of ballet flats for everyday wear, I have over 20 years experience of making them stylish, comfortable, affordable and fashion-forward. I have a huge amount of hands-on manufacturing experience - I work closely with my team in Spain and source all the raw materials myself which makes for a unique personalisation. When did you first fall in love with the style of shoe? I fell in love with everything ballet when I was four. I was an aspiring dancer until I went up on to the blocks aged 15, found the strain too much and reluctantly gave up. But my passion for ballet has remained. Wasn’t it on a trip to France in 1968 that the first seeds of inspiration were sewn for French Sole? I was on holiday in St Tropez with
a group of friends and found a small shop called Daniel Pelliou which sold espadrilles, sandals and an amazing collection of brightly coloured ballet flats, which at the time were worn by St Tropez’ most famous resident Brigitte Bardot. I love Brigitte’s style and invested in as many pairs of these cute little shoes as I could afford. I remember thinking at the time how much I would love to own a similar little boutique crammed full of my favourite footwear! But it wasn’t for another 20 years that you would go on to set up French Sole.... Before starting French Sole in 1989, I had been briefly at art school but dropped out to work in the Biba store
in Kensington. I had various other jobs in fashion, mostly in boutiques and then married and had children. As they grew older I studied the art of china and porcelain restoration and painting and worked for several years as a freelance restorer for several prestigious clients, mostly antique dealers and also the V&A Museum. Why the name French Sole? The name was originally The French Sole as a play on words for French soul - my great-grandmother was French and as all the shoes at that time were bought from French factories. Plus, I had always admired everything French. I later changed the name to just plain French Sole. Another thing is that it’s also a fish that my husband has always loved! 25
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Did you ever imagine that it would expand so exponentially? I never intended to grow so big. I am not in the least competitive and never wanted fame or money. I wanted a small business interest that would benefit my charities and provide me with a raison d’etre since I have never enjoyed the life of a housewife and never envisioned my life without a job of work to do. During the recession, far from shutting up shop, you launched three. How have you bucked the trend? The recession has not hit us at all. In the UK we have continued to grow and expand, take on more staff and open five floors of showrooms and offices in Mayfair. Our retail sales increase each year. Recession? What recession? What has been the highlight of the last 21 years of French Sole? There have been so many but being asked to design a special collection of shoes by The Royal Academy to celebrate their ‘Picturing Movement’ Degas exhibition was a real design coup. The shoes sold out immediately and we’re still taking bespoke orders from the collection. You have a huge and eclectic celebrity following from Kate Moss to the Duchess of Cambridge. What does that endorsement mean to you? It means a huge amount. The late Princess of Wales, Claudia Schiffer,
Carla Bruni, Madonna, Michelle Obama, the Middleton ladies, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie and their lovely mother, HRH Princess Alexandra, Darcy Bussell... their patronage has given the brand a class of it’s own. Is there such a thing as a typical French Sole customer? Yes, very definitely. They are always strong, comfortable with who they are, usually successful, and extremely stylish without being fashion victims. The French Sole girl will have fabulous legs, like fun and frivolity, she wears short skirts and ‘likes the boys’! Who would you most like to see wearing your shoes? The Duchess of Cambridge and The Queen. Whose style do you most admire? Inés de la Fresange. What’s your favourite look for 2012? Bright colours. And your least favourite? High wedge heels – yuck , disgusting and unflattering. Who are your all-time fashion heroes? Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy, Edie Sedgewick, Jean Shrimpton, Inés de la Fresange.
What’s your best-ever buy? All my Chanel suits and jackets. Outfit disaster? A horrible knitted crochet thing by Mary Farrin which cost me a fortune in 1980. I wore it to various events and looked terrible - it was fashionable but did not suit my very classic style. Which are your top three pairs of French Sole shoes? The current Diamond Jubilee shoe which is a silver glittering and sparkling flat shoe with silver heels and soles and a special commemorative embossed insole marking Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee. I also love the Valentine’s Day ‘I Love You’ velvet shoe and my simple quilted ‘Harriet’ the first-ever style I sold. You have always been based in Chelsea – what do you love about the area? I’ve been a Chelsea girl since I was 17 and spend part of each week at my apartment on Sloane Square. What’s not to love? It’s completely fabulous. Shops, restaurants, galleries (I adore the Saatchi), easy to park, close to the river for gorgeous walks with my dog, I know everyone, I can walk to two of my shops and of course my mother ship - Peter Jones! Chelsea is pretty, traditional, villagey and quirky. I adore Chelsea and always will, although my main home is in the Surrey countryside and I also spend part of each year at my hilltop house in Portugal. frenchsole.com
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3
2
1
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BEAUTY PRODUCTS 10 9
Absolutely’s best buys of the month
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1. PENHALIGON’S EAU SANS PAREIL £98, penhaligons.com 2. ACQUA DI PARMA MAGNOLIA NOBILE EAU DE PARFUM £66, uk.spacenk.com 3. MURAD HYDRO-DYNAMIC ULTIMATE MOISTURE CREAM £64, murad.co.uk 4. GIVENCHY ECLAT MATISSIME FOUNDATION £32.50, givenchy.com 5. SCOTTISH FINE SOAPS ORANGE FRUIT SOAP £4.95, johnlewis.com 6. CANE & AUSTIN RETEXTURIZING BODY PADS £56, uk.spacenk.com 7. SHU UEMURA CLEANSING OIL SHAMPOO £31, shuuemura.com 8. MOLTON BROWN ROK MINT HAND LOTION £16, moltonbrown.co.uk 9. TOM FORD VIOLET BLONDE £60, tomford.com 10. CHANEL LE VERNIS NAIL VARNISH £17.50, chanel.com 29
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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION
LINKS OF LONDON
The iconic international jewellery brand that captures London’s wit, spirit and heart, Links of London offers an eclectic mix of men’s and women’s jewellery in sterling silver and 18-carat gold, with an enviable collection of charms and charm bracelets. Links of London brings a distinct British charm to unique, fashionable designs. 16 Sloane Square, SW1W 8ER; 020 7730 3133
Sloane Square
Pavilion Road just off Sloane Square is a mecca for only the very chicest of shoppers... whether you’re in search of candles or cake CARAMEL BABY & CHILD
HEIDI KLEIN
Set up by Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein in 2002, Heidi Klein has quickly become synonymous with luxury swimwear within the fashion industry. Whether you’re looking for barefoot chic or super yacht style. 257 Pavilion Road, SW1X 0BP 020 7259 9418
Founded by Eva Karayiannis, Caramel Baby & Child delivers finely crafted artisan pieces that are as beautiful as they are functional. Renowned for their exceptional quality and unique colourways, the pieces exude luxury while remaining understated and effortless. Perfect for the adventures of the everyday. Caramel Baby & Child also stocks an eclectic range of accessories, interior items, toys and books. 259 Pavilion Road, SW1X 0BP 020 7730 2564
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THE LITTLE WHITE COMPANY
Little White Company prides itself on using sumptuously soft, natural pure cotton and wool for the kindest touch next to delicate young skin. Offering an extensive range of children’s and baby wear, bedding, toys and gifts, everything washes and wears brilliantly, giving you really outstanding value for money with a luxury feel. 184 Pavilion Road., SW3 2TJ; 020 8166 0199
COCOMAYA
Renowned for exquisite quality and creativity, Cocomaya Fine Chocolatier & Artisan Baker is one of London’s most beautiful and inspiring spaces in which to enjoy afternoon tea and some of the finest chocolates, cakes and breads available in the capital. 186 Pavilion Rd, SW3 0BJ; 020 7730 8395
9 LONDON
Founder Emily Evans offers a range of the most stylish maternity wear, specialising in international brands, designer maternity jeans as well as stunning eveningwear and lingerie. Designers include 9 London’s own label, Pietro Brunelli and Malene Birger. Every pregnant woman’s needs is catered for from the first stages of pregnancy to nursing and baby products. 9 London, 190 Pavilion Road, SW3 2BF
KATE SPADE
Utility, wit and playful sophistication are the hallmarks of Kate Spade New York. The flagship store in Chelsea offers a graceful, exuberant approach. Kate Spade New York celebrate the Year of Pattern using archive Florence Broadhurst prints on homeware, swimwear, accessories and an original range of luggage. 194 Pavilion Road, SW3 2TJ 020 7259 0645
ORMONDE JAYNE
London perfumery Ormonde Jayne’s flagship store on Pavilion Road is characteristically glamorous. Luxurious parfums, scented candles and bathing products are created with rare and exquisite ingredients including black hemlock, champaca and taif to create unforgettable fragrances. Try Ormonde Jayne Perfume Portraits, the complimentary service to find your signature scent through the 21 raw ingredients. 192 Pavilion Road, SW1X 0BJ; 020 7730 1381
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G L N B TI ILA GH VA LI E A EW R N HU OC BR
Pictured: The Grosvenor – Eight light lead crystal, cut glass chandelier in the Regency style 135cm x 95cm x 95cm
E
Kenneth Harvey Antiques INC ANTHONY REDMILE The Furniture Cave, 533 King’s Road London SW10 0TZ Telephone +44 (0)20 7352 3775 Email: jason@kennethharvey.com www.kennethharvey.com
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STYLE GOOD HAIR DAY
The ever-innovative chaps at Kérastase have launched a brilliant new range of products aimed specifically at maintaining the locks of younger women. ‘Cristalliste’ was created in acknowledgement of the fact that 65 per cent of young girls have long hair, and of those, 40 per cent struggle with oily tresses and split ends. As such it contains an oil solubilsation system which purports to leave roots clean without stripping nutrients, anti-dry magnet-like polymers which gives a polished effect, and aloe-vera illuminators. Shiny Middleton manes here we come… Bain Cristal: Fine and Thick shampoo (£13.90), Lait Cristal conditioner £16.60 and Lumiere Liquide perfecting essence (£16.60); kerastase.co.uk
Beauty Confidential Treatments for youthful tresses, speedy spa stops and fabulous facials... absolutely our top beauty tips
3
OF THE BEST FOUNDATIONS
BM BEAUTY Mineral Foundation £14; BMbeauty.com
BABY BLISS
Bonpoint, the 30-year-old Parisian purveyor of the very chicest of children’s clothes, next month turns its attentions to the well-being needs of tinies. Parents can learn the art of baby massage under the tutelage of physiotherapist Julien Montenot, who will be present at a one-day pop-up spa on 19 May at the Marylebone High Street store, where you’ll be able to snap up the company’s natural skincare collection. Limited spaces, call 020 7487 2512 to book, bonpoint.com
BEAT THE CLOCK
Indulge your inner empiric leanings in record time as Chelsea Day Spa on the King’s Road launches its ‘Empress Express’ 60-minute beauty package. Grab a mini-facial, eyebrow shape, manicure and a pedicure in your own private pod – a dream for busy bees who don’t have hours to spend in the spa. thechelseadayspa.co.uk
THE SPA AT THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL LAURA MERCIER Oil-free foundation, £33 houseoffraser.co.uk
CHANTECAILLE Future Skin, £55 uk.spacenk.com
Time seems to stand still as you enter The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental. Stress slips away in its Asianflavoured surroundings, and a warm feeling of bliss takes over as the receptionist brings herbal tea, a hot flannel and slippers (in your size). The spa offers a full menu of treatments, created exclusively by prestigious skin care specialists Aromatherapy Associates. Try the Aromatherapy Radiance Facial; a rose cleanser is massaged over the skin to prepare it for an enzyme peel. After a layer of rose gel is applied, a galvanic current is run across the face to stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage. This is followed by a skin booster (with Vitamin C or magnesium) and a hydration gel (to smooth fine lines) which penetrates deeply with the use of micro-currents. Finally, a skin firming serum and a warm layer of facial oil. Verdict? Expert pampering, worth every penny. 50 minutes, £125.00; mandarinoriental.co.uk
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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION
SCULPT YOUR BODY SLIM IN SIX WEEKS
Louise Parker and her dedicated team are ready to bust your body into shape for spring
T
HE INTENSIVE PERSONAL TRAINING PROGRAMME was devised by celebrity trainer Louise Parker over 12 years ago and has since changed the body shape of hundreds of individuals. Her experience ranges from helping clients recover from longterm obesity, to taking care of some of the most beautiful bodies in the world. The unique programme combines six hours a week of her exercise method, alongside a rigorous dietary overhaul, for a six-week period. “Each week we train you in four 90-minute sessions in the comfort of your own home – bringing the gym to you and saving precious time,” says Louise. “Some clients choose to do three 90-minute sessions over an eight-week period and the results are still exceptional.” The Intensive employs exercise and diet methods that radically shift body fat and totally re-sculpt the body, without compromising metabolism. “It’s so important to teach our clients how to boost their metabolism so that once they have lost the weight they can easily keep it off,” she notes. “So many diets will get the weight off but your metabolism will come to a grinding halt or they are just not sustainable.” The programme’s emphasis on resistance work and an intelligent eating plan ensure the results that clients achieve are long lasting and, most of all, easy to maintain. “No aspect of what we do is
extreme,” she explains. “Every element of the plan is sensible, researched and proven to work. But what we do is put it all together to create massive transformations in our clients’ bodies and lifestyles. “My team are world class and without doubt some of the best in the country. Most come from a Sports Science background and we have two Olympic athletes amongst us. We all share a friendly, no-nonsense approach and between us we offer an unrivalled service to our clients. I’m hugely proud to have such a talented and committed team behind me.”
with, and what has to be done to return you to your former glory.” Louise Parker designs each programme with one of her team before the programme commences, based on the individual’s requirements and deadlines. A rigid, yet balanced food plan is devised, ensuring optimal results. Louise personally monitors your diet diary on a daily basis to ensure you are on the right track and that you get all the support and motivation you need to succeed. In six weeks, you will emerge looking better than you thought you ever could. What Louise Parker does isn’t gimmicky, it is instead an intelligent combination of three factors – nutrition, training and lifestyle – delivered in just the right combination. “Providing you have made the decision to change and are willing to let us guide you,” she asserts, “You simply cannot fail – clients routinely drop two dress sizes on the Intensive.” There are many bespoke programmes available, and following a telephone consultation, Louise will advise a suitable programme and schedule to suit any objective, lifestyle and budget. Louise asks that new clients commit to a minimum of three hours per week to ensure that they achieve amazing results.
You simply cannot fail clients routinely drop two dress sizes on the Intensive Louise Parker believes anyone can have a fantastic body – regardless of age, body type and starting point: “By following my method, you really will be blown away by how you can change your body shape, overall fitness and exceed your own expectations.” Her programme is suitable for anyone wanting exceptional results, in record time. The Intensive is hugely popular with clients needing to be what she calls ‘red-carpet ready’ – whether that’s for a wedding, new job-role or even the school run. “I love helping post-natal mums,” she explains. “Since I had my daughters in quick succession, I fully understand the challenges new mothers are faced
Louise Parker Personal Training, 2 Eaton Gate, SW1W 9BJ 0800 084 2828 info@louiseparkerpersonaltraining.com 35
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WHAT’S ON
PATRICK LICHFIELD NUDES
24 APRIL UNTIL 26 MAY THE LITTLE BLACK GALLERY 37
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PATRICK LICHFIELD NUDES
24 APRIL UNTIL 26 MAY THE LITTLE BLACK GALLERY Being summoned by legendry ex-American Vogue editor Diana Vreeland for your first photography commission would be a pretty intimidating prospect for most. Lucky then that Patrick Lichfield was more than equal to the task that constituted his first big break, after which his career sky rocketed. Now, for the first time ever, Lichfield’s lesser-known nudes will be exhibited at 13A Park Walk, SW10; thelittleblackgallery.com
April What to do, when to see, where to go... Katie Randall takes her pick of the hottest tickets in town
HOLY TRINITY CHURCH CONCERT
12 APRIL HOLY TRINITY CHURCH In celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, soprano Alexandra Kennedy and countertenor Oliver Gerrish are leading an evening of classical music titled ‘The Best of British’. A spell-binding evening for any classical enthusiast. 7.30pm, Sloane Square, SW1X chelseaconcerts.com
ANIMAL INSIDE OUT
THE AMERICAN CLOCK
FROM 27 MARCH UNTIL 21 APRIL THE FINBOROUGH THEATRE The Finborough Theatre is bringing The American Clock to the stage for the first UK production in more than 25 years. Starring triple Olivier Award-nominee Issy van Randwyck, the tale is spun around the American Great Depression of the thirties. 118 Finborough Road, SW10 finboroughtheatre.co.uk
FROM 6 APRIL UNTIL 16 SEPTEMBER THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Fancy finding out what lies beneath the skin of the world’s most spectacular creatures? The Natural History Museum’s Animal Inside Out exhibition strips back skin and flesh, taking visitors on an anatomical safari throughout the animal kingdom. Waterhouse Gallery, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7; nhm.ac.uk
HOP & HUNT EASTER EGG HUNT
17 APRIL DUKE OF YORK SQUARE Pack up the family and head to Duke of York Square, for Chelsea’s first ever Hop and Hunt Easter challenge. Unscramble the clues and solve the hidden riddles within the shops on the square and the Easter bunny will reward you richly! From 10am-5pm Duke of York Square, SW3
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PHOTOGRAPHERS OF THE FUTURE
FROM 25 APRIL UNTIL 22 JULY SAATCHI GALLERY Alongside its current exhibition, Out of Focus: Photography, the Saatchi Gallery - as ever championing burgeoning talent - will showcase the work of finalists of Google’s student photography competition. Now is the moment to peruse work of the Baileys, Rankins and O’Neills of the future. Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3; saatchi-gallery.co.uk
BEEKEEPING AT THE CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN
12 APRIL CHELSEA PHYSIC GARDEN Chelsea Physic Garden reopens to the public on 1 April; to mark the occasion they will be offering visitors a unique honey tasting event with the garden’s resident beekeeper, Peter James. For the more adventurous, there will also be a beekeeping for beginners course on 12 April. 10am - 4pm 66 Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, SW3; chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk
HANS-PETER FELDMANN
FROM 11 APRIL UNTIL 5 JUNE SERPENTINE GALLERY Dusseldorf-born Hans-Peter Feldmann first gained critical acclaim with his encyclopedic photographic series - often presented in books, posters, postcards and installations. Here he presents work from throughout his career; his tongue-in cheek pieces are sure to raise a smile. Kensington Gardens, W2; serpentinegallery.org
CHRISTER STRÖMHOLM
20TH APRIL UNTIL 26 MAY MICHAEL HOPPEN GALLERY Christer Stromhölm spent time building relationships with his subjects, hence why his portraits of the Place Blanche transsexuals are both strikingly beautiful and highly sympathetic. See his surprising and beautiful images at 3 Jubilee Place, SW3; michaelhoppengallery.com
VERA VERA VERA
UNTIL 14 APRIL THE ROYAL COURT THEATRE The Royal Court Theatre presents black comedy Vera Vera Vera as part of its Young Writers’ Festival 2012. The play, written by actress Hayley Squires, follows a group of siblings after the loss of their brother. Sloane Square, SW1W royalcourttheatre.com
LONDON ORIGINAL PRINT FAIR
19 APRIL ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS The Diamond Jubilee tour is already well under way, and to celebrate, this year’s London Original Print Fair will be Jubilee themed accordingly. Now in its 27th year, the established art fair allows visitors to snap up prints and also to attend a variety of lectures including - appositely inaugural printmaking. Burlington House, Piccadilly, W1J londonprintfair.com 39
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ARTS&CULTURE FAITH, HOPE… AND FISH
From the director of Chocolat, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? And The Cider House Rules, comes another vaguely gastronomically titled adaptation. Lasse Hallstrom takes Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, Paul Torday’s debut novel, and casts Ewan McGregor as the larvae-fixated Dr Alfred Jones, the ever-brilliant Emily Blunt as Harriet Chetwode-Talbot, a management consultant working on behalf of a sheikh passionate about salmon and Kristen Scott Thomas as a Number 10 representative who is charged with driving the project. Cultural barriers, politics, a fine British cast and – er – fish. Which seems to cover all the bases – or at least it did in Toronto where the film received a standing ovation.
SINKING FEELING
Downton Abbey, says Oscar-winning screen writer Julian Fellowes, was but a training ground for Titanic, his new four-part series for ITV which marks the disaster’s centenary and airs this month. Indeed, there are aristocratic suffragettes (Perdita Weeks), the obligatory earls with secrets to conceal (Linus Roache), new vs old money tensions (Celia Imrie plays an industries heiress), hen-pecked lawyers (Toby Jones), arch snobs (Geraldine Somerville) and the parallel downstairs world of servants providing the familiar Fellowsian themes. Says Fellowes: ‘It was a world of hubris, and that world was on cliff. The Titanic was so representative of it; they were the luckiest people on earth – the bankers, the movie stars... but what makes the steerage stories so tragic is that so many of them were emigrating, so they had the whole family with them. It’s the completeness of the tragedy.’
Preview This month’s highlights
ESSAYS IN LIFE
Sam Tanenhaus, editor of The New York Times Book Reviews, called Jonathan Franzen’s 2010 novel Freedom ‘a masterpiece of American fiction.’ We are, then, just a little bit excited at the prospect of Farther Away, a collection of the writer’s essays, largely penned over the past five years. Everything’s covered, from environmental devastation in China to the suicide of a friend to his fierce clash with bird poachers in Cyprus. Published by Harper Collins.
THE LADY’S NOT FOR TURNING…
If you didn’t see it on the big screen, here’s another chance to catch the now Oscar- and Golden Globe-wielding Meryl Streep at her breathy best as the ever-divisive Maggie Thatcher in The Iron Lady on DVD. Released 30 April.
BLUE PLAQUE OF THE MONTH… OSCAR WILDE 16 TITE STREET ‘Bigamy is having one wife too many. Monogamy is the same’…
Oscar Wilde’s matchless epigrammatic wit is as celebrated now as it was at the time he uttered his flippant but often devastatingly accurate quips. He was a feted author and playwright by the 1890s, at which time he was living with his wife Constance Lloyd at Tite Street – and while one wife did indeed prove too many for the aesthete, it was the Marquess of Queensbury, father of the Wilde’s lover Lord Alfred Douglas, who brought about his downfall, accusing him of ‘posing as a Sodomite’, an accusation that Wilde ill-advisedly claimed to be libelous. The ensuing trial, however, unearthed evidence that led to Wilde’s arrest at the nearby Cadogan Hotel and subsequent two-year imprisonment. 41
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TORUS, A STAINLESS STEEL ELLIPTICAL PORTAL THAT PLAYS WITH LIGHT AND REFLECTION
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HERE COMES THE SUN
A combination of a twist of fate and unbridled, fearless enthusiasm led David Harber to design his first sundial. Twenty years on, he tells Nancy Alsop the whole story
‘Y
our punctuality is terrifying!’ greets a laughing David Harber as I turn up on the dot of our appointed hour. His affability is at once apparent, but there’s a certain irony in his incredulity at my promptness; as a pre-eminent sculptor and sundialist, Harber is a man whose currency is, after all, time. We are meeting as his plans take shape to celebrate 20 years working in the trade, and as a regular exhibitor (and prize-winner) at Chelsea Flower Show; as such, there are four new pieces to be unveiled next month, including The Quill, a soaring structure which takes as its muse the 1951 Skylon erected for the Festival of Britain. ‘I’d already drawn up the shape, but then I began to think about the beautiful, tall and elegant form of The Skylon – it’s like a Cyprus tree. It’s made from stainless steel and bronze, so it has this organic quality, but a formality as well.’ The Crucello – pronounced theatrically and emphatically the Italian way – is another of the landmark works set to be unveiled. A beehive-like contemporary take on the traditional three-tiered water fountain (though in fact, not a water piece, but one that characteristically plays with light), the structure is unusual for Harber insofar as it’s his first piece actually
DAVID HARBER WITH THE REALISATION OF HIS ANCESTOR JOHN BLAGRAVE’S DESIGN AT ST. JOHN’S, OXFORD
designed not to meet the elements, but instead destined for the indoors. Was the process, as a result, very different? ‘We get asked more and more to make pieces we’d have thought would be for the outdoors, but actually a third of our water features actually end up inside, often in the central hall of London houses,’ he explains. ‘I suppose, it’s all about bringing calm to the otherwise hectic lives that we all seem to lead.’ It is however, with sundials, that Harber is most associated. What, I wonder, lead him into such a niche – and niche by virtue of the fact
that it requires the maker to be both artistically and scientifically brilliant – area? ‘The reality is, there were various elements. I had very basic metal-working skills that I acquired when I was running a travelling theatre on a barge in France’ - the revelation is but the first of a catalogue of eclectic earlier jobs - ‘and I just had this tendency to leap into things.’ By way of example, Harber – who, incidentally, has also been a thatcher – recalls: ‘There was the time I joined an expedition in South America as a cameraman. I was NOT a good cameraman or mountaineer, but I had this confidence to look at something and think: ‘Yes, I can do that.’’ Call it headlong if you will, but when it came to his first brush with sundials, the gamble paid off, happily proving that necessity is indeed mother of invention. ‘So after I had acquired these basic skills on the barge, I was renting in Devon, extremely hard-up, I had a two-year old daughter, and I really wasn’t sure how I was going to put food on the table. An antique dealer friend had dropped by and he had, I realise now, a rather nasty 1920s sundial with him. Ten minutes after he left, I was on the case. I drove to Oxford with my daughter to the Museum of Natural History - by the end of the day I’d bought the materials and was making 43
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SOME OF HARBER’S WORK IN SITU: LEFT: STAINLESS STEEL ARMILLARY SPHERE; ABOVE AND OPPOSITE PAGE: GARDEN GLOBE; RIGHT: THE MANTLE
my first dial. It was like that scene from Close Encounters. The neighbours were horrified!’ But while the neighbours may have looked aghast upon his creation on the front lawn, one passer-by was by contrast touched by its beauty and bought it in exchange for what equated to three months rent. That bypasser happens to have been a rather well-known British actor, though amusingly and touchingly, all these years on, Harber feels a reticent unease at mentioning his name (a clue: he’s best known for his turn in the BBC’s Brideshead Revisited). Still, it was to set a precedent; since then, the miscellaneous cast of characters to have commissioned pieces have
included Judi Dench, the Queen Mother, George Michael and the King of Bahrain, a development for which Harber is becomingly grateful. As he says, ‘successful people have choice, so if they come to me, it’s gratifying. It means we have credibility.’ What was it, I ask, that should have so instantly entranced him about sundials and compelled him to dedicate so wholly his life to their making? Harber is contemplative. ‘Well, firstly it has the sculptural element, but also the navigation and the mathematics, which I like. But also, it’s that they are such ancient scientific things. They are the markers of time and of heavenly bodies philosophers of all cultures and of all
ages have looked at the skies. I suppose it’s man trying to harness the heavens. It’s not that I’m philosophical, but they are deeply imbued with ethereal wisdom that’s worked over thousands of years.’ He warms to his theme: ‘If you look at a sundial, you’d be amazed at its calming effect. It’s not a watch – a watch is stressful, it reminds us that we’re late for this or that. It is reassuringly constant, and it’s the same process that worked four billion years ago. And we shouldn’t be intimidated by that, we should accept it – we try to control everything, and the simple fact is that you can’t control everything, and somehow the dial reminds you of that fact. We have to give in to it.’ Certainly, there is a mesmeric quality
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to his work; it is at once organic and crisp and the aim, he says, is always to elicit a double take. ‘Most of the pieces I hope make people raise an eyebrow, whether it’s through a shadow or the way the light hits it.’ Time and continuity are so much the driving force behind Harber’s spectacular work that it’s rather neat that he discovered a few years ago that the famous sundialist and cartographer John Blagrave, is an antecedent of his. ‘I don’t feel spooked by it,’ he says, ‘because I’m really not a new age traveller who believes in karmic reincarnation. But what was lovely was that I’d been doing this for years before I found out. And then about four years ago I went to see my father who’d made a rather home-spun family tree, and it actually had on it this old print of an engraving of a print of a sundial. I recognised it immediately, and the penny dropped. The other strange thing was he lived only five miles from my studio.’ Duly, Harber took the original engraving and made up the sundial from Blagrave’s illustrations, which
was later unveiled at the Science Museum, and now stands at St John’s, his ancestor’s former Oxford College. When Harber is not in his Oxfordshire studio, he is off globe gallivanting; there was a recent exhibition in Australia, and there’ll be shows this year in Russia and in Geneva, all of which he juggles – naturally - with running a lemon farm in Sicily. But for now, we return to Chelsea, which Harber regards as the pinnacle
someone shouted out: ‘Can everyone who has bought a dial before please talk to someone else until we’re free to get round to every one.’ Which they did, so really they became our salespeople for us. There was so much good will.’ Harber’s work will also go on show at Eaton Square this June, which he says is wonderful since it allows him to have a London showroom. I leave him contemplating some of the hundreds of ideas captive in his quick-as-lightening mind - (I am captivated by his ‘reflected ceiling dial’ which involves a tiny mirror on the exterior of a house bouncing light onto the ceiling of a room, where it reflects tiny gossamerlike lines of gold leaf to reveal not only the time according to the sun but children’s birthdays and other significant dates) - and as I make to leave he sweetly suggests I come and find him at Chelsea for a glass of wine at the end of the day. ‘I rarely get round the show’ he says, ‘but we have a few friends there, so we meet at the end of the day to raise a glass to all still being in business.’ A concern which, twenty years on from that early, reckless decision to become a sundialist, David Harber can safely put to rest.
A sundial is not a watch, reminding us we are late. It is reassuringly constant of the year, and a useful catalyst for producing new works. It is, he says, frenetic and ‘a strange beast’ but also a rather touching affair, because it means he gets to see many a former client, all of whose back stories are of great importance to him. And, evidently, in so delivering his work with such love, he has, in turn, garnered the devotion of legions of customers. Recalling his favourite moment from last year’s show he says: ‘Often we’re swamped on the stand which we have about five or six people manning. So last year,
davidharber.co.uk; rhs.org.uk 45
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A sketchy past
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ite Street, as any Chelsea aficionado will know, represents in microcosm the hotbed of artistic activity that defined the Chelsea of the Aesthetic Movement. It was from here that Oscar Wilde penned his outrageously brilliant plays, novels and witticisms, and on this street that E.W Godwin built Whistler’s White House (which, as it turns out, he was fated never live in after a legal case against John Ruskin bankrupted him); Augustus John moved in, and other artistic incumbents included John Singer Sargent, Frank Miles and the composer Peter Warlock, while the mighty Norman Shaw’s architectural oeuvre (along with that of Godwin’s) practically became the vernacular. Meanwhile, just to its south on the Chelsea Embankment lived wealthy MP and the first Lord Monkswell, who was moved to build a studio for his celebrated artist son John Collier, just off Tite Street at number 7 Dilke
Street. Which is where our story of the London Sketch Club - in its current incarnation - begins. That more than a century on twentyodd (all-male) members continue to convene every Tuesday night for life
drawing sessions at the club may not sound like much of a yarn, but step behind the club’s doors and revealed is the most wonderfully uncontrived living relic of the Edwardian gentleman’s club - of a more bohemian persuasion.
As it was a century ago, members (each one recommended by another) - typically ranging from their forties into their nineties - turn up, scale the sweeping stairs and make straight for the diminutive bar stocked with wine and whatever else happens to be there. They are the artists, architects and draughtsmen of a bygone era; jokes are swapped, bawdy stories told, someone plays the guitar in impromptu fashion, and at 6.30pm – after the arrival of the life model – most go in to sit at their donkey and easel for two hours’ solid sketching. Others prefer to eschew the sketching in favour of steady drinking and circular story-telling. The club moved to Collier’s old haunt in 1951, but for its genesis we must go much further back to 1838 with the founding of The Langham Sketching Club, which became the place for the cream of London’s star artists: the black and white illustrators, who were regarded with same sort of
PHOTOGRAPH BY TOMMY CANDLER
The result of a row over food - of all things - at a previous artists’ society, The London Sketch Club was founded in 1898. Nancy Alsop was admitted as a rare female guest to witness how the spirit of artistic bohemianism still thrives at this Chelsea Edwardian relic
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ARTS&CULTURE Archivist Don Grant’s guide to the most prominent founding members: CECIL ALDIN: A huntin’ and shootin’ artist, he really was a Master of Foxhounds. Like many others, he did advertisements to supplement his living, for Cadbury’s for instance, and his style was instantly recognisable. JOHN HASSALL: Known as the Poster King, he did ads for Bovril; Nestle Milk; Colman’s Mustard; and the ‘Skegness is SO Bracing!’ poster, for which he was made a freeman of the town and could sit in deckchairs free of charge on the sea-front.
THIS PICTURE: THE LONDON SKETCH CLUB MEMBERS ESCHEW THE BAR FOR SOME SERIOUS LIFE DRAWING UNDER THE WATCHFUL EYE OF EARLY MEMBERS’ SILHOUETTES ON THE WALL; BELOW LEFT: ALFRED LEETE’S POSTER ADVERTISING ONE OF THE CLUB’S DINNERS
awe that was reserved for music hall stars. Born out of the Artists’ Society in Gray’s Inn, the new club got its name – sensibly – when it moved to Langham Place in 1854. Happily the artists - who included the likes of Arthur Rackham and Sir John Tenniel - gathered at 7pm sharp to draw solidly on any subject for two hours, after which time they would all repair for bread, cheese and endless wine. But, it seems, it was concerns culinary rather than artistic that would prompt the founding of the London Sketch Club. As the club’s current (and ebullient) archivist Don Grant says: ‘The London Sketch Club was formed as a result of a ridiculous row between factions at the Langham Club. Arthur Rackham, Sir John Tenniel, Charles Keene and others were happy to have bread and cheese and beer in the evenings. However, there was a bunch of ‘upstarts’ who wanted something more substantial after slavering - I’m sorry, slaving - over a hot model all day. These included Dudley Hardy, Walter Fowler, Frank Jackson, Robert Sauber, Tom Browne, and Cecil Aldin. They wanted hot food. So they left en masse to form their own club!’ Soon these bohemians began to attract attention; they held exhibitions, and journalists – vying for invitations
– began to write about them. At its dinners – still held today - the club’s eclectic guests ranged from MPs to sewermen; they were the eccentrics – but only the very talented eccentrics - of the day. Indeed, the illustrated silhouettes of significant members around the drawing rooms walls attests to the brilliance of these early members, and I – as one the rare and few women to be admitted on a sketching night – can attest to the continuing tradition of talent and idiosyncrasy. In the words of Dudley Sutton, the member behind the club’s habitual toast:
Here’s to the London Sketch Club The central London letch Club The nuff to make you retch Club The come up and see my etch Club Model in the middle absolutely starkers Older members fiddle With their magic markers Masquerading as fine art Steaming up your glasses Enough to break a mother’s heart All for tits and arses Here’s to the London Sketch Club! Find out how to hire the building for special events at londonsketchclub.com
SIR ROBERT BADEN-POWELL: The Boy Scouts founder. Dib Dib Dib. He was an able water-colourist, and was encouraged by John Ruskin. The first cover of Scouting for Boys was drawn by John Hassall. TOM BROWNE: He drew for Punch, Tatler and The London Magazine, inventing such characters as Tired Tim. He also drew the first Johnnie Walker figure with riding boots, beaver hat and quizzing glasses. WILL OWEN: He drew The Bisto Kids. Most famous for the The Man Who... series, highlighting social faux pas in the years between the wars. G.K Chesterton described him as ‘The Master of Wild Exactitude’. PHIL MAY. For me, the most spectacular artist of that era who bestrode the Sketch, the Savage and the Chelsea Arts Clubs like a minotaur colossus at the tail end of the 1890s. He was a great friend of Whistler, who said that black and white drawing could be summed up in two words: ‘Phil’ and ‘May’. He was the yardstick by which his peers measured themselves, with a delicacy and economy of line that was much-imitated. He said to a publisher: ‘When I can leave out half the lines I now use, I will want six times as much money.’ ALFRED LEETE: He drew the iconic ‘Your country needs you’ of Kitchener GUESTS: Charlie Chaplin and Arthur Conan Doyle were regulars; more important than creating Sherlock Holmes to Conan Doyle was apparently playing Deep Mid-off for the club’s cricket team. Gerald Scarfe came more to drink than draw. Peter Blake was a frequent guest as was the irascible Ruskin Spear, who used to drink with Dylan Thomas. 47
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Art of the Matter
The
As ever, the Saatchi Gallery is breaking all the rules. Nancy Alsop meets Rebecca Wilson, curator of One Giant Leap, which challenges the notion that hotel art need be deliberately bland as the exhibition moves into W1’s Hyatt Regency
T
he situation is, I grant, unusual: I’m standing in the bathroom of a suite in a luxury hotel – replete with its full complement of stars – etching my name determinedly into its walls, as it seems, many others have done before me. Suddenly, there’s a sharp rap at a door in the adjoining room. Could this be imminent admonition announcing itself? Not a bit of it; while the hand battering at the door which leans nonchalantly against the sitting room may be sheathed in a forbidding black glove, it is, in fact, also disembodied and does not – thankfully - belong to a reproving member of hotel staff. For ghastly as the tableau might sound, it is, in fact, all the in name of art - with a capital ‘A’.
The Hyatt Regency – The Churchill’s Limited Edition suite has, after all, been curated by the Saatchi Gallery and presents a singular opportunity for guests not simply to admire hallowed works in a hushed and reverent gallery
Steve Bishop on the one hand fixes guests with its stare as they recline on the Jaime Hayon sofa, while Celine Fitoussi’s site-specific installation has the bathroom sheathed wall-to-wall in soap – hence the unashamed graffiti which, I should add, guests are actively encouraged to get to work on. And as for Ronin Cho’s motion-sensor self-knocking door – titled We Know This But We Just Don’t Know How To Show It (2011) – it may not be one for the fainthearted upon first encounter, but it certainly draws a smile. The Limited Edition suite is – as the exclusivity of its name implies – the only Saatchi-curated room that guests can book (until the end of May), but the Hyatt’s other guests are by no means deprived of the hotel in its capacity as the gallery’s
It presents a singular opportunity for guests not simply to admire hallowed works in hushed, reverent gallery situation situation, but instead to live amongst contemporary art, to drink, to relax and to sleep with it all around. As such, a taxidermied Arctic fox wrapped around a sculptural take on the classic Jean-Paul Gaultier perfume bottle by
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outpost; downstairs, throughout the lobby and restaurant, Saatchi curator Rebecca Wilson has worked with the Marble Arch hotel – which has had a relationship with contemporary art since it partnered with Frieze – to fly in the face of hotel art convention and actually fill it with work chosen not for its generic inoffensiveness, but to start a conversation. ‘One of the things that we are very interested in doing at the Saatchi Gallery is taking art out of the gallery environment,’ says Wilson. ‘It’s always exciting to put art into a completely new environment and to allow people to really come up close to it. A lot of people of course can’t afford these sorts of works in their own home, so it’s a way of having that experience. Also going to a contemporary art gallery can be quite an intimidating experience, and you don’t necessarily
PREVIOUS PAGE: CHRISTINA MACKIE’S ‘FIGURE 1’ IN THE HYATT REGENCY - THE CHURCHILL’S LOBBY ABOVE: THE LIMITED-EDITION SUITE, SHOWING JAIME HAYON’S SOFA, CARLA BUSATTIL’S OIL AND STEVE BISHOP’S ‘JEAN-PAUL GAULTIER-CLASSIQUE’; BELOW, LEFT TO RIGHT: ‘THE LIBERACE MUSEUM’, 1998, © DEXTER DALWOOD, 1998; ‘RED MOROCCANS’, 2000 - 2002, © TIM STONER, 2002; ‘MARGARET AND DENNIS’, 2004 © STELLA VINE, 2004; ‘PEARL EARRING’, 2004 © CLAIRE PESTAILLE, 2004. ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF THE SAATCHI MUSEUM
IN THE CURATOR’S WORDS
‘THE LIBERACE MUSEUM’ DEXTER DALWOOD
Dexter’s work is all about capturing what he imagines the world of celebrity bedrooms to look like. He’s done a whole number of paintings on a similar theme and at the Hyatt we’re showing a painting which is him imagining The Queen’s bedroom. When the intruder who managed to get in to her room came to court, he gave a very detailed account of everything that he saw, so Dexter partly based the painting on that. And there’s another one which is him imagining Liberace’s bedroom [pictured], and then the last one that’s in there is McCarthy’s living room, which has a dominant red wall, so you get this sense of Communism looming out at you. They’re very much through-the-keyhole pieces.
‘RED MOROCCANS’ TIM STONER
Tim produces these wonderful floaty, ethereal watercolours which is a
medium that is not that widely used by contemporary artists. They’re quite quiet in a way, but I love the action in them. You wonder where he’s taken these ideas from and what’s going on behind some of these images. They’re quietly arresting and you just get drawn in to his way of seeing things. They’re almost like a painted still from a film - it’s like they’re from another world that you can’t quite access and he’s bringing them back from another place.
‘MARGARET AND DENNIS’ STELLA VINE
Stella Vine became quite a controversial
figure when she did a painting of Princess Diana and scrawled on it ‘Hi Paul can you come over I’m really frightened ‘. Part of her work is a reaction to how the media gets a hold of its… victims, in a way, and celebrities. That picture of Margaret Thatcher and Dennis – the manager was worried that it might be a bit rude, but actually Stella Vine was really a bit of a fan of Thatcher – it was because of her that she was able to buy her council flat. So it’s really meant as quite an affectionate, gentle piece. She has been criticised a bit because you could argue that the painting is quite amateurish; the paint is applied
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ARTS&CULTURE feel that comfortable walking in, or plucking up the courage to ask how much something might be, but if you’re sitting in your suite and you’ve got these fantastic works, it may be that you just feel a little bit closer to that world. It loses its status as a kind of sacred object – you really admire it, and have a reaction to it, but by dint of the fact that you are, say, in the bathroom and you have this amazing soap installation all around you, people just have a much more visceral and immediate response, which is what we were aiming for…’ And, as Wilson says, the mission of the pubic exhibit – titled ‘One Giant Leap’ – is to present a new way of thinking about the hotel experience, so that whilst many of the works – consciously selected from a mélange of the both well-known artists and rising stars, and of work both already shown and yet-to-be-seen at Saatchi HQ –
are wall-based, there are also lots of sculptures that pack a punch. Indeed, even the work that appears initially to be of a more traditional persuasion, almost without exception, has a playful twist or darker allusions at play. ‘We wanted it to be something that wasn’t a passive experience of going in to a hotel, so that you thought: ‘Oh god, I hate that!’, or ‘I really love it’, or somewhere in between – but to have a reaction to it. It’s a conversation starter. When I go back, I hear people say things like: ‘Oh I don’t think that’s the kind of thing you want to see when you’re checking in!’, but at least it’s a reaction. The nice thing is that people have been asking how much the pieces are, and whether they’re for sale, so we know we are actually engaging people,’ says Wilson. london.churchill.hyatt.com
Rebecca Wilson on selected artworks at One Giant Leap ‘VELAZQUEZ’ DAVID ORDING
very roughly, but really that’s the point. What she’s so good at doing is capturing the essence of her subjects. She’s really got something in the freedom in the way she paints. If you’re a guest in the hotel and you’re not necessarily from this country, you would instantly recognise that as Margaret Thatcher which would make you want to find out what the story behind it is.
There are many, many layers to his work. What he’s doing is these kind ‘greatest hits’ of Cezanne, or Rebrandt or Velazquez. He tends to focus on old master paintings, all postcard sized, and he fits them all together. Each one is very intricately painted – he’s sort of the opposite of Stella Vine in a way. They’re kind of replicas, but not replicas of the paintings, which is interesting, because museums obviously produce their postcards of the work, and they try to get the colours as close as they possibly can to the original but it’s never quite the actual painting, obviously. So what he decided to do was to work from the postcards, so you get paintingpostcard-postcardpainting and then he puts them all together. It makes you think about that whole process and the representation of old master paintings, and how we see them.
‘PEARL EARRING’ CLAIRE PESTAILLE
They’re kind of spooky and they work really well with the David Ording pictures. Claire is also really interested in old masters, and they’re versions of old master paintings, but also the narratives that go with the old masters themselves – the stories we know around
Velazquez or Rembrandt – but what she does is she brings her own take on those paintings and stories and manipulates things so that she has her own say. She adds details that weren’t in the originals and distorts them in dark, menacing ways. They’re quite dark, but I like the way that you look at the David Ording pictures which are very painstaking homages, and then you turn the corner and see these pictures which, if you look very quickly, you assume are old masters, and then you start looking and seeing all these dark elements.
‘RIESEN (GIANTS)’ MARTIN HONERT
The Hyatt loved most of the works, but there were a few pieces the manager was slightly uncomfortable with at first. The giants stand towering in the entrance hall and he might have thought initially that they were a bit scruffy, but then he really got that this might be the piece that really engages people – they began getting their camera phones out and taking pictures next to them, and then those pictures get put on Facebook and tweeted, and so begins the thread. They’re really not meant to be menacing – the piece was inspired by the artist remembering being a child, being around all these really tall people, and he was thinking about going into galleries, and the scale all around you when you’re this little person. The point was to trigger your own childhood memories and remember what it’s like to always be looking up! He based it on his own memories, and went back to old school books and drawings that he’d done, so it was a very personal piece.
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Gold overlap cuff £579, Van Der Straeten at Harrods; gold knuckle ring £195, Hannah Warner; gold double tusk earrings £165, Dinny Hall
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CHAIN REACTION Scorching hot in this season’s heavy metals
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Graph link necklace ÂŁ129, Giles & Brother
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Black platina silver rhodium ring £220, and double ring £365, Gaia Repossi for Zadig & Voltaire; silver hoop earrings £145, Dinny Hall
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Montaigne chain necklace ÂŁ235, Swarovski
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Abstract tiered necklace ÂŁ545, Etro at Net a Porter
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Silver-tone brass cuff £455, Etro at Net a Porter; black platina silver intricate cuff £1,480, Gaia Repossi for Zadig & Voltaire; black rhodium tunnel bangle £340, and silver tunnel bangle £305, Hannah Warner; ring £135, Arielle De Pinto at Net a Porter
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Antiqued rose gold plate choker with lucite and crystal pendant ÂŁ481, Erickson Beamon
CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Blackett STYLIST Charlotte Kewley HAIR Kieron Lavine MAKE UP Louise Dartford at Naked using Inika NAILS Nailgirls London nailgirlslondon.com MODEL Olga D at M&P
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STOCKISTS Dinny Hall, dinnyhall.co.uk Erickson Beamon, ericksonbeamon.com Giles & Brother available at Liberty Hannah Warner, hannahwarner.com Harrods, harrods.com H+H, holly-hannah.com Net a Porter, net-a-porter.com Omega, 0845 272 3100 Swarovski, swarovski.com Zadig & Voltaire, 0207 7928 788
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ARTS&CULTURE
By
THE BOOK Chelsea is awash with destination independent bookshops to entice every breed of bibliophile… here’s Absolutely’s pick of the best
JOHN SANDOE
Quite simply a bibliophile’s dream. There are 25,000 books crammed into the three floors of this charming 18th-century building just off the King’s Road, and little space for much else; tables groan under the weight of literary masterpieces and unusual and rare tomes alike, as customers contort themselves to penetrate all its promisefilled crannies. Something of a Chelsea institution, John Sandoe took up residence in 1959, before which the shop was – fittingly anomalously – a poodle parlour on one side, and a junk shop selling books by their weight on the other. How times change. 10 Blacklands Terrace, SW3; johnsandoe.com
LAUREN DOLMAN, SHOP ASSISTANT What is the book that changed your life? The book that changed my life was Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell. Perhaps
it’s an obvious choice, but when I read it, at about 16, it brought home how important language is to one’s perception of the world – how it can limit, or conversely, enlarge it. For me, that was a reason in itself to want to engage with as many books as I could find. Also, the combination of these huge concepts with strong characters and narrative action made real a world of ideas that I’d never been quite able to access before. Ever since, I’ve found myself turning to novels to get a sense of a place or time I want to know more about. What has been your most memorable literary buy and why? It’s always special when you realise that you have in your possession something that can no longer be replicated – that’s why I love hardbacks; they go out of print so quickly and suddenly you find you’ve caught a moment that’s since passed. I
bought Freedom by Jonathan Franzen when it first came into the shop – from the print run that was subsequently pulped – and now that edition is no longer available. It’s a book that’s completely concerned with the present, so it’ll be particularly lovely to have in years to come as a reminder of the time.
SLIGHTLY FOXED
Friendly is the word that Slightly Foxed uses to describe itself and none of our (regular) visits has ever disproved this self-reckoning. There’s an inviting stack of shelves full of bargain buys sitting underneath the shop’s canopy, and inside things become more intriguing still; the books on offer are a brilliantly edited mélange of new books, classic reprints and antiquarian tomes. It is, in many ways, the archetype of the charming independent bookshop – and no wonder, for in its 63
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TONY SMITH, MANAGER What is the book that changed your life? When I started as a bookseller, I took a holiday in Corsica and planned to read War and Peace for the first time while on Napoleon’s home island. My employer recommended that I read it in the one volume, India-paper edition published by Oxford World’s Classics. The copy I took with me had been issued to British armed forces during World War II. I had to ration myself to 100 pages a day so that it would last the fortnight and leave me time to appreciate the Maquis in spring! It began my collection of these pocketsized hardbacks and I now have more than 600 of them. Sadly they went out of print in the 1970s and are becoming harder to find in good condition. They also inspired the limited-editions published by Slightly Foxed which I now sell in this shop. What has been your most memorable literary find? Soon after taking over as manager of Slightly Foxed, on a very cold February
CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: SLIGHTLY FOXED; DAUNT BOOKS; NOMAD BOOKS; TASCHEN STORE LONDON
nascent days, it was part funded by Graham Greene (who used to declare that his fantasy life would be spent behind the counter of just such a shop, and whose nephew Nick Denny did indeed run it.) In 2009, Denny gave up the business to concentrate on private book dealing, but much to the relief of his legions of devoted fans (including VS Naipaul and Edna O’Brien), he passed the premises on to Slightly Foxed, a brilliant literary quarterly which celebrates books that you won’t find on any bestseller lists, for its raison d’etre is to bring to people’s attention great old works that have stood the test of time. As novelist and subscriber James Hamilton-Paterson says: ‘It’s the only cheque in the year that I’m actually happy to write.’ It’s a great, unstuffy read, and all of the books discussed are available through the Gloucester Road shop. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, the staff will help with any request you may have – the weirder and more wonderful the better. 123 Gloucester Road, SW7; foxedbooks.com
morning I was invited to go through 100 boxes of books which had been in storage for about 20 years in a warehouse in north London. At the bottom of one of the last boxes were two rather nondescript volumes which turned out to be the memoirs of the Marquis de Caulaincourt. He was Napoleon’s ambassador-cum-spy to the Court of the Tsar. The manuscript was lost for decades and only published in English in the 1930s. Winston Churchill bought a set and, during World War II, gave it to Field Marshal Smuts. I found this fascinating because the two men had begun their careers on opposite sides in South Africa. These volumes were a glimpse behind the curtains of Franco-Russian relations in the early 19th-century and the testament of an extraordinary friendship in the middle of the 20th-century.
DAUNT BOOKS
This burgeoning collection of exquisite James Daunt-owned independent book shops understands exactly what it is to have big vision whilst eschewing everything associated with the chain. There may now be six branches in the capital but definitively each has its own character; after all, the eponymous Daunt started life some 20 years ago as a discerning travel bookshop which also sold atlases, literature and art books under the roof of an original Edwardian building on Marylebone High Street. The winning formula here is that the shops are about as unintimidating as Waterstones but ten times more beautiful and with a far better edited collection of tomes. All of which explains why it is
such a favourite amongst the chattering classes who are often to be heard at dinner parties/on the school run/during Waitrose shops trilling their praise for it. We love the Chelsea branch and are often found mooching about its inviting wood-panelled interiors before a dash to Luigi’s across the road. Check the website for details of regular author talks by the likes of William Boyd and Jan Morris… 158-164 Fulham Road, SW10; dauntbooks.co.uk
MAX PORTER, MANAGER, DAUNT BOOKS CHELSEA What is the book changed your life? My life is changed by books ludicrously regularly, I’m proud to say. Most memorably – from the last few years - were the Letters of Ted Hughes, which I re-read often and consider to be an truly extraordinary insight into a brilliant and kind mind. They are fascinating for biographical reasons, and for a fan of Hughes’ poetry they are an essential map of his ideas and concerns. However, it is the painstaking and rigorous way in which Hughes maintained, challenged and re-defined his relationships over many years that truly impresses. He used letters as a space to wrestle the most complex ideas, to nudge the possibilities of friendship, test ideas and de-construct arguments. His letter to his son to explain the motivation behind publishing Birthday Letters is one of the most moving and intelligent letters I have ever read. What has been your most memorable literary find and why? I found a copy of Trilby by George Du Maurier for 99p in a junk shop. I got it home
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ARTS&CULTURE and realised it was a very early edition and quite special. It was a doubly nice thing to find as Du Maurier is a distant relative of mine and I had been guiltily meaning to get round to reading Trilby for some time.
NOMAD BOOKS
Something of a rarity in the world of independent bookshops, 20-year-old Nomad is actively and enthusiastically child-friendly. A natural habitat and regular haunt for those Fulhamite yummiest of mummies, it not only has a vast section devoted to books for tinies, but there’s also a be-sofa’d café serving Union coffee and cake, with room specially allocated for parking your buggy. The friendly staff hosts an assortment of book clubs (with wine, obviously), so take your pick from classics or poetry chatter. 781 Fulham Road, SW6; nomadbooks.co.uk
HARRIET MORTON, OWNER What is the book that changed your life? I’d have to say that the book that changed my life was A Passage to India, by E.M.Forster. I read it when I was 19 and it compelled me to go to India as soon as possible. Thus began my travels, which eventually resulted in the setting up of Nomad Books and 21 years later we are still here. What has been your most memorable literary find and why? My best literary find was an old library copy of War and Peace with big enough print for me to be able read with ease!
TASCHEN STORE
It is apposite, to say the least, that Taschen’s only London store is positioned slap-bang opposite the Saatchi Gallery. The ultimate antidote to the traditional cluttered independent bookshop, the impossibly beautiful and unswervingly stylish coffee table arty books are housed inside a matchingly slick interior designed by the go-to man for cool, Philippe Starck. The Taschen story all began in 1980, when an enterprising 18-year-old Benedikt Taschen bought 40,000 remainder copies of a René Magritte book and, recognising a need for the democratisation of art books, sold them on at a lower cost. Thirty-two years and, ironically, with a world record for having published the most expensive book ever sold (Helmut Newton’s, signed by over 80 celebrities, fetched over $320,000),
London has its own store, with which we are delighted. 12 Duke of York Square London, SW3; taschen.com
THE BEST OF THE REST
HAYLEY QUENTIN, MANAGER
PETER HARRINGTON: For rare
What is the book that changed your life? I started collecting art books when I was a teenager, the same time I became academically interested in art as well. However, the book that started it all was a basic art series by TASCHEN of Lucian Freud. I fell in love with his style and though I could never own a real Lucian Freud, I felt I had a piece of him in my book. I have since amassed a ridiculously large personal collection of art books, all started from one. It is really special and a bit surreal working for the publisher that sparked my interest. What is your most memorable literary find and why? I once got a 1945 cloth-bound copy of T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets for £5.00! Eliot is a beautiful poet and where possible I like to collect older editions of special books. It was a great find and if you look hard enough in London you can find treasure. I purchased it for a gift, but I have to say it was very difficult to give it up.
and collectable first editions since 1969, there are few more knowledgeable – not just in Chelsea, but throughout the world… significant acquisitions have included the likes of a Shakespeare first folio (1623), and James Joyce’s Ulysses, one of 100 copies on Dutch paper in the original wrappers. peterharrington.co.uk
CHARLES RUSSELL RARE BOOKS: Housed in a charming
shop on the Fulham Road with an idiosyncratic pointed roof and clock on the exterior, Charles Russell has been in business since 1978, and specialises in natural history and decorative books. russellrarebooks.com
WORLD’S END BOOKSHOP: Musty, dusty and cave-like, this higgledy-piggledy place is one for Sunday afternoon trawling for bargains… 020 7352 9376
V&A ENTERPRISES: This two-year pop up on Exhibition Road serves up wine as well as an eclectic array of obscure and well-loved titles. But don’t delay, it closes this August. vandareadingrooms.co.uk ROBERT FREW LTD: Antiquarian maps, rare books and historic prints. Robert Frew has been in the business since 1975, peripatetically moving from operating first in Camden Lock, then in Primrose Hill, Great Russell Street, Maddox Street and now in Knightsbridge. robertfrew.com 65
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Men in
RED
The Royal Hospital is one of Chelsea’s great institutions. Patricia Rodwell’s new book goes behind the scenes to document a year in pictures
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ARTS&CULTURE
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ALL IMAGES © PATRICIA RODWELL
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ARTS&CULTURE
A merry monarch Charles II may have been, but the Royal Hospital – which he founded in 1692 and which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren – remains one of his best and most touchingly respectful legacies. Three centuries later, the magnificent building still stands, the retired military folk in their gleaming scarlet uniforms continue to roam its hallowed halls and call it home, and we still love catching sight of them parading proudly about the King’s Road. Few, though, get to see much of the institution’s machinations at first hand, which is what makes photographer Patricia Rodwell’s A Year in Pictures: The Royal Hospital Chelsea all the more delightful. There are contributions from Kate Adie, Mark Austin and Martin Bell, but it’s the Chelsea pensioners – and the building – that are the real stars here. The Royal Hospital: A Year In Pictures , Merrell Publishers Ltd, released on 23 April, £40.
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PROFILE
River deep Ruth Rogers blazed the ‘peasant food’ trail when she opened the stormingly successful River Cafe some 25 years ago. Katy Jarratt met a passionately hands-on chef
W
aiting to speak to Ruth Rogers at The River Cafe, I reach a level of sensory contentment I didn’t know was possible. ‘Go mad,’ says her delightful restaurant manager, placing a menu before me and running through the list of possibilities with the kind of fondness and excitement you’d expect from someone telling you about each of their children in birth order. The Thames laps on the river bank outside and the cafe gives off the gentle hum of late lunchtime conversation. Everyone, including the receptionist, is giving a personal and detailed wine or food recommendation to an enquiring customer over the phone. This is the life. Out of pure greed I choose a pudding. It’s a vanilla pod-speckled pannacotta with grappa and rhubarb. It comes in a smooth dome, layered with columns of the freshest rhubarb
I’ve ever tasted. It’s phenomenal, but don’t expect it to be exactly the same when you go. The River Cafe changes menu twice daily based on what is available and Rogers is held up writing the second menu of the day in the far corner of the cafe. ‘We just talk about food all day,’ says Ruth’s assistant Jess, who is checking on me occasionally with a seamlessly intuitive balance of attention and space. We politely laugh but she holds my gaze and I understand that she must really mean it. We have reached the realm of the serious food fanatics. Rogers walks over, smiling. ‘Have you eaten?’ she asks. I’m tempted to say no but I tell her I’ve had the pannacotta and I’m stuffed. ‘Ah,’ she exclaims, remembering it from the morning’s menu. ‘I didn’t write it myself, Danny did,’ she says, but she knows it back to front. I can see that
the menu for her is like a seasonal newsfeed, the living, breathing current affairs of the food world. Is writing it a creative process? ‘Oh yes,’ she says, ‘it’s constantly running through my head and there is a lot of creative pressure. But there are structures within it too, like any creation.’ Rogers sees the menu as a theatrical performance each night, with the food items as cast members appearing in different guises - grilled, cooked, fried, hot, cold. ‘I’ll usually always have mozzarella and prosciutto and squid on the menu. Then three fish and three meat,’ she adds. ‘Mondays are difficult for the squid,’ she says, as if she’s trying not to take it personally, ‘but we get by. We’ve had scallops on the menu almost every day, but in the back of my mind I know the lobster is going to be less available so I’ll combine that with other fish to make a fish stew.’ 71
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She is Goldie Hawn-esque and has the manner and look of a Woody Allen heroine but seems to have lost some of the harder New York edges. She and Rose Gray founded The River Cafe in 1987, specialising in fresh, seasonal Italian cuisine and gained their first Michelin star in 1997. They are well known for having launched the careers of famous chefs like Jamie Oliver and Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall and for indirectly defining a new genre of food - what the papers coined ‘peasant chic.’ As with any iconic commercial venture, it’s had its fair share of ups and downs. After a fire in 2007 it closed for seven months and - perhaps, worst of all - the death of Gray from cancer in 2010 left Rogers and the team bereft. ‘I feel like a single parent,’ she says. ‘Since Rose’s death I’ve tried to focus a lot on the things we shared. The restaurant, the values, our families...’ This seems to be the only way she can come to terms with it.
Rogers’ role is, and always has been, relentlessly hands-on, with six shifts a week. Even while Gray was there, the two of them worked side-by-side, day in, day out for two decades. Rogers was born in upstate New York, the daughter of a doctor and a librarian. She travelled to England for university and, in her words, ‘never went back.’ ‘I was so excited to be in England, I met my husband very quickly and after three years we were married.’ Her husband is Lord Rogers, the modernist architect who has been responsible for some of the most interesting buildings in the world, including The Lloyd’s Building and the Millennium Dome. She is, technically, Lady Rogers, but - like a true liberal she is not concerned with whether you address her properly or not. ‘When Richard and I were first together we travelled to France because he won the contract for the Pompidou Centre. I was always cooking anyway,
but when we were in Paris and we lived above a market - that was when I was the most influenced.’ Going to the market every day and deciding what to cook for dinner gave Rogers her sourcing epiphany. Little did she know she was ahead of the times and would spend the rest of her life bringing that concept to fruition and inducing a whole trend of food sustainability. Whatever the impact of this amazing feat, her advice is simple. ‘Never...’ she says, pausing with emphasis, ‘...go to the market with a shopping list in your head.’ Despite decades of experience as a restaurateur, a Michelin star and an MBE under her belt, Rogers defines herself first and foremost as a chef. ‘To be a good chef you need three things,’ she begins. She has obviously thought about this a lot and her New York twang returns. ‘One: you have to be really passionate about your job. If you don’t love it, it’s going to be a problem.
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PROFILE ‘Success is an internal feeling, isn’t it?’ she asks, rhetorically. ‘It’s how I can look at the restaurant and just know that we run a very different, tight, ship’
Two: you must be able to work in a team. The days of the shouting chef are over - nobody does that anymore. Three: you need qualities like curiosity, energy, ambition and taste. They are not common.’ Considering that her passion for Italian food is so strong, I wonder aloud if she ever attempts to make other types? ‘I don’t have time to become an expert, but when I do go out locally I love ethnic food. Bibendum Oyster Bar for Saturday lunch, I adore finding little Lebanese places, then Star of India and Zuma for Japanese is divine.” Looking around the restaurant, the staff are extremely engaged in their work. They’ve got tables to erect, people to look after, food to talk about. Nobody is bored. ‘It differs, but on an average day I’ll have nine chefs on, two managers, nine waiters on the floor, two receptionists, four bar staff and two waiters in the pipe room.”
For a restaurant that has up to 300 people walk through the door each day, that’s a lot of hard work. The staff are also quietly protective of Rogers, or ‘Ruthie’ as they call her, glancing up from their work occasionally to check where she is. But that is not surprising considering the restaurant is her second home and she is now running it single-handedly. River Cafe has been going so long and done so well, how does she even define success anymore? ‘Success is an internal feeling, isn’t it?’ she asks, rhetorically. ‘It’s how I can look at the restaurant and just know that we run a very different, tight, ship. One measure of success is the number of people who eat here, the margins we create, the reviews that we have. Personally for me, the measure of success is when people come back over and over again. That for me is success. When my children eat here and they’re happy. When my husband Richard eats here
every day. Combining family, home and my work is success.’ It’s early evening and the sun is setting on this morning’s menu. What have been her highlights so far today? ‘If I had eaten here I’d have had the Dover sole and broad bean salad. Then gelati for afterwards, then... What’s this?’ she says, noticing something on the menu like a director picking out a rogue member of the chorus line. ‘The pear and grappa sorbet - I need to taste that.’ I feel vague excitement in my stomach in anticipation of raising my blood sugar even higher. ‘You want some?’ she asks, but I suspect the look on my face gives it away. She shouts across the restaurant like a Jewish mother: ‘Danny! Hey, Danny! Danny! What’s this on the menu? Come over here and meet this nice lady and bring us some sorbet and cwoffee.’ You can take the girl out of New York... rivercafe.co.uk 73
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401_UK_UK_NH_Harr_Self_1-1NY Mezzo_Absolutely.indd 1 Untitled-6 1
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INTERIORS
IN THE HOT SEAT 8 of the best
ARMCHAIRS CLEOPATRA SLIPPER CHAIR, £475, grahamandgreen.co.uk
BERGERE UPHOLSTERED CHAIR, £1,350, by Kate Forman, kateforman.co.uk
MA A R N ILL NA MCH A conr T UR AA IR ansh L , £ op.c o.uk 250,
SEM OCC A NA LE AT A R M A SIONA L HER habita CH A IR, £ 4 0 0, t.co.uk
MANHATTAN ARMCHAIR, £499, okadirect.com
OSCAR ARMCHAIR BY MATTHEW HILTON, £2,350, scp.co.uk
CH A C H A IR M A K ER £ 710, IR IN BL A ’S ercol.coBY ERCOLCK , m ,
SKANDIUM’S CH24 CHAIR BY CARL HANSEN, £564, skandium.com 75
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INTERIORS THE ICON
OIVA TOIKKA
Part of the Scandinavian design powerhouse Iittala, Professor Oiva Toikka is one of the biggest names in Finnish glass. His famous ‘Birds’ collection began in 1972 and each piece is still hand-blown and unique. Prices vary, iittala.com, available at Skandium, 245 - 249 Brompton Road SW3; skandium.com
Interior Inspirations
Watch the birdie birdie... Gemma Billington DESIGN PRIMITIVE BIRD PAINTINGS is seduced by avian-inspired OKA’s flagship store is design this month packed full of limited-
edition one-off buys. We love this beautiful watercolour primitive birds set which adds an instant shot of colonial classic to your sitting room. Set of Two Primitive Bird Paintings (40 x 36cm), £360 155-167 Fulham Road, SW3 okadirect.com
DESIGN
WEBSITE OF THE MONTH
Online interior store Occa Home now stocks an exclusive range of cushions, wallpaper and textiles by provocative design duo Timorous Beasties. Their richly detailed, surreal style is the perfect ‘twee textiles’ antidote. Birds N Bees cushion, £85; Ruskin Single Lovebirds cushion on linen, £138; occa-home.co.uk
Natural History is our go-to brand for quirkily beautiful gifts and homeware with a Victorian curio shop edge. These bird notebooks are a bestseller and the design is taken from an antique encyclopedia of natural history. £30 each; origin-of-style.com
TIMOROUS BEASTIES
NATURAL HISTORY
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LANDMARK LOFTS.indd 1
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INTERIORS
A Designer’s Life A brief encounter ... with David Linley
My idea of heaven is… A day in the workshop creating a beautiful piece of furniture. The thing I’m proudest of is… My two wonderful children. Something I wish I were better at is… Answering questionnaires! I would describe my style as… Discreet but discerning. The best advice I ever got was… If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again! My lucky break was… Launching my first furniture collection at Christie’s in 1985, when Sir Roy Strong commented that ‘Linley furniture would be the antiques of the future.’ The person who would play me in a film would be… Daniel Craig! If I could choose someone to write the soundtrack to my life it would be… Van Morrison. The book that changed my life was… The first book I wrote, Classical Furniture, which allowed me to explore the classical aesthetics that I admire. My best buy ever was… The showroom at 60 Pimlico Road. The best present I ever received was… A bandsaw from my mother. My favourite saying is… ‘I dream of things that never were… and say why not?’ The best hour of the day is… 12pm, half
Get the
LOOK 1. Don’t be afraid to mix old with new. Antiques and contemporary furniture sit very happily side-byside. The same applies to art. 2. Think about the architecture and proportions of the building you live in. Try and take this as your starting point for any design scheme. 3. Maximise light via mirrors, colours which reflect light, and of course clever lighting schemes. Lighting can make or break any interior and determines the atmosphere and mood of a room.
way between elevenses and lunch. My idea of a good night out is… A delicious meal at The Markham Inn in Chelsea with my wife Serena. And the perfect night in would be… Teaching my children to make drop scones. At weekends I most enjoy… Walking along Pimlico Road, chatting to customers, then visiting the farmers’ market in Orange Square before lunch at Daylesford. Someone whose style I admire is… Lord Snowdon, my father. The thing that gets me down is… Man’s inhumanity to man. My favourite holiday is… With my family at our house in the Luberon, Haute-Provence. I visit the local markets in Banon where you can buy Provencal quilts, lavender soaps and lots of goats cheese. My favourite thing about Chelsea is… The fact that it is still so diverse. It is multi-ethnic and Bohemian in its own unique way. If I could change one thing about Chelsea, it would be… The double yellow lines What people might not know about me is… I like to polish my shoes until they are so shiny I can see my own reflection. davidlinley.com
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SPRING SALE NOW ON
Relax and feel rejuvinated Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will be glad to spend time with you to help create the bathroom of your dreams, within your budget. Depending on your requirements, we can offer supply, or a full supply and fit service in conjunction with our respected and established fitting partners. We have 3,000 sq.ft of displays in settings. We can supply many products from stock and souce just about anything. And we won’t be beaten on price.
London showroom 144 York Way, Islington, London N1 0AX 020 7812 1300 www.bathroomheaven.com
Open every day - late by appointment.
SHOWROOMS ALSO IN:
bathroom heaven apr 12.indd 1
CHARLTON
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WATFORD
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30/03/2012 22:24
SUMMER BBQS ON CLUB NIGHTS AT... T U R N U P T H E H E AT A N D J O I N U S F O R A S I Z Z L I N G B B Q T H I S S U M M E R . YO U ’ L L E N J OY A G L A S S O F P I M M S O N A R R I VA L , F O L L O W E D B Y A D I V I N E 3 - C O U R S E B B Q D I N N E R I N T H E T U D O R G A R D E N B E F O R E YO U PA RT Y T H E N I G H T AWAY AT O U R P R I VAT E M E M B E R S C L U B .
The Roof Gardens – 99 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA www.roofgardensclub.com
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HOW MUCH? From ÂŁ60 per person, based on a minimum of 10 people (From ÂŁ50 per person for members)
WHEN?
Selected Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, May - September 2012
BOOKINGS :
Phone 0207 368 3960, email victoria.l@roofgardens.virgin.com or enquire online at www.roofgardensclub.com/summer-bbqs
Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.
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NU - LINE
KITCHENS .COM
What does your kitchen say about you? Nu-Line Builders Merchants 305-317 Westbourne Park Road London W11 1EF
T: 020 7467 0022 F: 020 7467 0003 E: sales@nu-line.net
www.nulinekitchens.com
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FOOD&TRAVEL
Carluccio’s Way Founder of the eponymous string of deli-style cafes, Antonio Carluccio tells Nancy Alsop why simplicity is key – and why he feels like a pregnant woman PHOTOGRAPHS COPYRIGHT OF TONY BRIGGS 2010
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FOOD&TRAVEL
Did you always want to be a chef? No, but really I am not a chef – I am a cook. I didn’t learn as a professional. Instead I was just cooking, cooking, cooking for fifty years. Culinary heroes? Well at the time, I didn’t bother to look to others. But later on, Pellegrino Artusi [author of The Science of Cooking and the Art of Eating Well] became a great inspiration. He was a writer at the turn of the century who concentrated on Italy’s regional food. He was not a chef either, but like me he loved food. Meal that changed your life? I always joke that the meal that changed my life was taken at the breast of my mother... of course I cannot remember, but I imagine that it was wet and warm and nice! There are meals and there are meals. I remember a journey from Rome to Tuscany with a few others. We were on a motorway, it was a really hot day and we were
all suffering. There were no cafes, but we came across a country house and asked for some water. We sat in the shade and the woman brought out a big bowl of cheese, bread, prosciutto and fruit. It was really a biblical meal, particularly because she didn’t want any money for it. What has been the proudest moment of your career so far? I think it was writing my biography. You start to see that what you have done remains. My food philosophy has not changed, which is also because Italian food is not changeable, as it has its roots laid down over centuries. I am proud that I have had fifty years of cooking without being influenced by any other cuisines. What projects are you working on at the moment? My biography comes out in October, plus there’s a compendium of three books with lots of my favourite recipes
which will probably come out in October too. I’ve also just finished the second series of Two Greedy Italians for BBC 2 which is on the television this month, and there’s a book that accompanies the series. There’s also my recipe app for the iPad and iPhone too, which is all about nice food kept simple. I am busy! Favourite recipe on the app? They’re all my favourites. Choosing would be like picking a favourite child! Top three ingredients? Pasta, olive oil, basil and tomato. That is four, but with these you can make very simple, delicious food. What dish do you like to knock up for a quick supper? Anything that is in the fridge. For instance, the other day, I had some salmon, and in the fridge there was some fennel. I added water to soften the fennel, and used some garlic. I then
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Polpettine di Spinaci Spinach Balls CARLUCCIO’S FULHAM
Some 25 years ago I invented this recipe for these little spinach balls for a chapter on finger food in a book published by The Sunday Times. Since then I have used them in all sorts of ways, most significantly in a vegetarian pasta dish, and layered with pasta in a vegetarian lasagna. They are very simple to make and very jolly. MAKES 24 LITTLE BALLS 500g spinach, cleaned and stalks removed salt and pepper 2 eggs, beaten a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg 1 tsp very finely pureed garlic 100g fresh white breadcrumbs 50g Parmesan, freshly grated olive oil, for shallow-frying
ANTONIO CARLUCCIO’S FLAGSHIP COVENT GARDEN RESTAURANT
cooked some pasta and added delicious slivers of wonderful smoked salmon and Parma ham. I didn’t know that Parma ham and salmon could be so delicious together, but it was fantastic. Best advice you have ever been given? I have never been given advice, I just took it from many, many people. But what I learnt was that the best thing is not to complicate things, obviously to use the best ingredients and never to overwork things. It is all about authenticity and purity. Guilty food pleasure? I am like a pregnant woman. Ok, I don’t want banana on pizza or anything like that, but I like very much the trio of tinned borlotti beans, cannellini beans and chickpeas. Obviously fresh ones are best, but I also like the tinned ones in a salad with tuna and onions. Biggest kitchen disaster? I remember mentally creating a recipe
for a tart using avocado with eggs and mascarpone, so I tried it in the Covent Garden restaurant, and it was total yuck. Really disgusting. Where do you go to eat in London when you’re not working? I don’t go out so much. But when I do, I like La Famiglia – I’ve known Alvaro [Maccioni] for thirty years, and I love the steak alla Fiorentina there. I also like to eat dim sum for lunch; I go to New World in Soho – the food is fresh and it’s full of Chinese people. I like Royal China too in Fulham, but I really don’t like going out too much. I don’t want to be curious. But naturally I go to a lot of my own restaurants, to check that the food is still good. Future plans? So many! The book has been translated in to nine languages, so a lot of the year will be spent travelling – I just got back from Norway for example – so I am looking forward to some peace as well.
1. Wash the spinach, put it in a pan of salted water and blanch for 2 minutes or so, then drain. Squeeze out as much water as you can, using your hands or pressing in a sieve, the chop the leaves finely. 2. Put the spinach in a medium bowl and stir in the beaten eggs, a pinch of salt, some pepper, the nutmeg, garlic, breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Mix well until you achieve a binding consistency. If the mixture is too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs. 3. Pour enough olive oil into a frying pan to cover the base generously, and heat gently. 4. Roll the mixture into little balls the size of walnuts. Shallow-fry the spinach balls in olive oil until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on kitchen paper and serve either warm or cold. Download Antonio Carluccio’s iPad app ‘Antonio Carluccio’s Simple Cooking’ at itunes.apple.com 85
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FOOD&TRAVEL
Restaurant
REVIEWS Absolutely two of the best new openings...
GALVIN DEMOISELLE With over 50 years experience between them and a string of Michelin stars under their belts, Chris and Jeff Galvin have nailed it when it comes to good food. So, it is not surprising that once again they have hit the jackpot with their fifth restaurant, Galvin Demoiselle, which opened in Harrods last month. Perched on a mezzanine above the fruit and veg section (and consequently a brilliant viewpoint for people-watching), it’s classic Parisian café meets top-notch brasserie. Chris’s wife, Sara Galvin, is the force behind this new venture and accordingly the design features a more feminine influence: a marble staircase, sage green Chesterfield-style booths and banquettes, and then bright orange stools just to keep you on your toes. The menu is traditional French bistrot, purposefully packed with light bites, yet with the option of something more substantial. The wild mushroom velouté, cêpe brioche provided a great start to the occasion and boasted a deep rich flavour with the brioche featuring just the right amount of springy-ness. The imam bayildi, fromage blanc and fresh coriander was equally impressive, and perfectly seasoned.
And even when a stylish soup might be all that is needed, it’s worth skipping one of Harrods’ umpteen floors in favour of a main course: the signature baked lobster fishcake, warm vinaigrette of fresh ginger and chives has established iteslf as a firm favourite, while the slow-cooked Cornish lamb with apricots, almonds and cous cous was beautifully tender and exquisitely delicate. Everything was executed with great charm, both in presentation and by the smiley (and scarily efficent) staff. Desserts came up trumps. The baba au rhum, crème Chantilly was lovely and light, doused with just the right amount of rum, while the tarte au citron was melt-inmouth delicious with perfect zing. The wine list is another essential indulgence. There is the always enticing option of paired wines, plus the list features bottles with decent price tags (from £30) – a bargain for Knightsbridge. The final treat was a hot chocolate, but not just any hot chocolate, one topped with ‘Hi, Gorgeous’ in foam writing. Now that’s pretty good.
MEURSAULT
The brainchild of director Ibi Issolah and executive chef Jerome Tauvron, Meursault – which opened in February – sits happily beneath the dining room of its sister restaurant, L’Etranger, the Japanese-French fusion restaurant in South Kensington. Deemed a younger and more casual alternative to its upstairs neighbour, informal banquette seating fills the room while beautiful moody Japanese artwork snakes around the walls and the ceiling. The restaurant follows similar cuisine lines as its sibling with a vibrant selection of dishes packed with seafood, tempura, sashimi and sharing platters. The beautifully cooked caramelised Alaskan black cod with miso is the pièce de résistance; subtle but flavoursome, deliciously glazed with a lovely texture. The Wagyu burgers also hit the spot, gorgeously juicy and perfectly formed with an excellent tomato relish. The mixing of such a mash of cuisines and traditions is certainly ambitious but it works, conjuring up fabulous dishes including thr pan-fried foie gras, cinnamon and date pudding, with Yuzu-infused endive and Lagavulin chocolate ice cream. The rhubarb and apple spring roll with coconut ice cream ticked all the right boxes, marvellously rich in flavour while the macaroons (opt for blood orange) acted as the perfect final flourish to the meal. Paired wines from L’Etranger’s 1,600-strong wine list are offered throughout by the charming and very able head sommelier Marika Rossi. Plump for the 2008 Sicilian Chardonnay from Planeta – a veritable assault on the palette with a delicious hint of caramel. 36 Gloucester Road, SW7, 020 7584 9719 meursaultlondon.co.uk
Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1 020 7893 8590; harrods.com
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30/03/2012 21:09
OR TF G N OU RIN ISC RDE D 5% LINE O ON
FREE DELIVERY 020 7727 8222
www.ukai.co.uk
HOSOMAKI 5 Pieces of thin sushi roll 20. Salmon 21. Spicy salmon 22. Tuna 23. Spicy tuna 24. Cucumber 25. Avocado 90. Cucumber with organic brown rice 91. Avocado with organic brown rice 92. Salmon with organic brown rice FUTOMAKI 5 Pieces of thick sushi roll 30. Japanese Omelette (eggs) inari, kanpyo, chives, enoki mushrooms and cucumber 31. Salmon and avocado 32. Tuna and avocado - tuna, avocado, chives and enoki mushrooms 33. Vegetable - yellow daikon, cucumber, red pepper, green beans & chives 57. Crispy duck (roasted) duck, cucumber, mint, enoki mushrooms, chives, & hoisin sauce NIGIRI 2 Pieces on a small bed of sushi rice 10. Salmon 11. Spicy salmon 12. Tuna 13. Spicy tuna 14. Prawn 15. Japanese Omelette (eggs) 16. Octopus with Teriyaki sauce 17. Seabass 18. Grilled eel 19. Hamachi (subject to availability) 27. Ikura (salmon eggs) 28. Mackerel 29. Chilli beef with teriyaki sauce SASHIMI 4 Fillets of fresh raw fish 1. Salmon 2. Spicy salmon 3. Tuna 4. Spicy tuna 5. Hamachi (subject to availability)
£3.50 £3.75 £4.30 £4.50 £3.10 £3.25 £3.30 £3.30 £4.30
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6. Seabass UKAI dressing £6.50 7. Chilli beef with Teriyaki sauce £5.80 64. Crunchy oriental broccoli £5.40 with sesame dressing URAMAKI 65. Seaweed salad Sukura £5.10 2 Inside-out rolled sushi cress & Wakame seaweed 40. Rocket -cucumber, red selection, cucumber, £4.70 pepper, chives and enoki bean sprout, sesame seeds, mushrooms edamame beans and dressing 41. California - crab meat, £4.80 mango, cream cheese and UKAI MIXED PLATTERS masago These selections can 42. Salmon and avocado £4.80 not be altered salmon, avocado and 70. Salmon mix: Sashimi x4, £10.90 sesame seeds Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 43. UKAI california - salmon, £5.10 71. Spicy salmon mix: Sashimi £11.50 cream cheese, rocket and x4, Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 cucumber 72. Tuna mix: Sashimi x4, £12.90 Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 UKAI SPECIALITIES 73. Spicy tuna mix: Sashimi £13.50 50. 4x Oysters (Subject to x4, Nigiri x2, Hosomaki x5 £6.60 availability) served with 74. Veggie mix: Omelette £9.50 orange and ponzu dressing nigiri x2, Cucumber hosomaki 52. 8x UKAI pancake Japanese £4.90 x5, Vegetable futomaki x5 pancake with cucumber, 75. UKAI mix: Edamame, £19.00 chives, inari and hoi sin Salmon sashimi x4, Prawn sauce nigiri x2, Rocket uramaki 53. 4x Tuna tartar finely x5, Tuna Hosomaki x5 £5.70 chopped raw tuna in lemon 76. Jumbo mix: Edamame, £26.00 pepper and mirin dressing Salmon sashimi x4, Tuna served in cucumber cups, sashimi x4, Salmon nigiri chives and tobiko x2, Prawn nigiri x2, Tuna 54. 4x Salmon tartar finely nigiri x2, Cucumber £5.60 chopped raw salmon in hosomaki x5 chilli wasabi and mayo77. Party mix 90 pieces: £85.00 nnaise served in cucumber Generous selection of cups and tobiko sashimi, nigiri and maki 55. 4x Inari sushi seasoned tofu £3.80 beautifully presented ideal pouches of rice, sesame, for 8-10 people - Allow ginger and chives preparation time 56. Tuna tataki seared tuna with £8.60 78. Sashimi mix: Salmon x4, £16.50 sesame seeds and miso Tuna x4, Fish of the day x4 dressing 79. Tuna & salmon mix: £14.00 Salmon sashimi x2, Tuna SALADS sashimi x2, Salmon hosomaki 60. 6x Daikon rocket salad roll £5.90 x2, Tuna hosomaki x2, rocket, avocado, red pepper, Salmon nigiri x1, chives, enoki mushroom and Tuna nigiri x1 daikon ginger dressing 150.UKAI Gojyu 50 pieces: £45.00 61. Spinach salad roll blanched £4.90 Generous selection of sushi spinach, sesame seeds and beautifully presented, orange ponzu dressing ideal for 4 people - Allow 62. Green mango and papaya £5.90 preparation time salad carrots, coriander, mint, peanuts, tomatoes with MISO SOUPS red nahm jim 80. Miso, tofu, seaweed, spring £1.75 63. UKAI salad Rocket, lettuce, £5.40 onions and chive oil soy beans,radicchio, 83. Seafood Ramen (thin) £6.50 seaweed, sesame noodles, octopus, prawns, and pumpkin seeds with kani stick, seaweed
and chive oil 84. Seafood Udon (thick) noodles, octopus, prawns, kani stick, sea weed and chive oil 85. Vegetable Ramen (thin) noodles, tofu, spring onion and mixed vegetables 86. Vegetable Udon (thick) noodles, tofu, spring onion and mixed vegetables 87. Miso, salmon, tofu, seaweed, spring onions and chive oil SIDE DISHES 100. Edamame (hot or cold) 104. Spicy Edamame 101. White rice 102. Organic brown rice 103. Japanese mixed pickles CHIRASHI 4 Fillets of fresh raw fish (Sashimi) served on a bed of rice 110. CHIRASHI Salmon - White rice Tuna - White rice 112. SPICY CHIRASHI Spicy salmon - White rice Spicy Tuna - White rice TEMAKI 1 Piece of handroll 130. Salmon, avocado, sesame seeds and chives 131. Tuna, avocado, enoki mushroom and chives 132. Mixed vegetable 133. Ikura (Salmon eggs), cucumber and chives 134. California - Crab me at, mango, tobiko, cream cheese and chives 135. Eel, cucumber, enoki mushroom and chives DESSERTS 120. Ice-cream 2 scoops (Ask for daily flavours) 123. Warm Chocolate Brownie with your choice of icecream 125. Green tea & Vanilla Pannacotta with chocolate sauce 126. Fresh fruit plate 127. Mixed mochi
£6.50
£6.40 £6.40 £3.70
£2.85 £2.90 £2.70 £3.20 £2.70
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£4.50 £5.00 £3.70 £4.90 £5.70 £5.50
£4.50 £6.10 £5.20 £4.90 £4.20
We deliver to: W1, W2, W3 (some parts), W6 (some parts), W8, W9, W10, W11, W12, W14, SW5, SW6 (some parts), SW7, NW6, NW8 & NW10
223 Portobello Road, W11 1LU | 2 Westbourne Grove, W2 5RA | 58 Poland Street, W1F 7NR *our own customer survey
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Contemporary dining in the heart of St James’s Avenue offers a modern British menu, using seasonal English produce. The menu is bursting with interesting flavours and textures that are not typical but go together beautifully. We serve lunch Monday to Friday and dinner Monday to Saturday Perfect for business lunches, elegant dinners, private dining and exclusive parties.
7-9 St James’s Street London SW1A 1EE 020 7321 2111 avenuereservations@danddlondon.com www.avenue-restaurant.co.uk
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FOOD NOTES
FOOD&TRAVEL
Fine teas, able artisans and patriotic breakfasts TEA FOR TWO
We love this Harrods Fine Tea Collection hamper, right. It comes in a seagrass basket, includes four of the world’s most coveted single-estate teas and gives you the tools to sip in decorous style with a silver scoop, a glass pot and a glass cup and saucers. Now, who’ll be mother? £200, harrods.com
IN THE BEST POSSIBLE TASTE
Provenance has been the gastronomic buzzword of the decade, and one man who knows all about it is Nigel Barden, chairman of Great Taste whose star-system has long been akin to Michelin’s in the world of artisan producers. Now he comes to The Cadogan for a series of curated menus which serve as a platform for the country’s best independent food producers. Every six to eight weeks a new chef will guest preside; until May, it’s the handiwork of Xanthe Clay with Barden, after which time, the baton passes to Lucas Hollweg and Thomasina Myers, and after that, expect delights from Fay Maschler, Charles Campion, Pete Brown, Bill Knott and Anna Hansen. Top chefs using awardwinning ingredients? Surely a recipe for a culinary treat – and at under £35 a head, a bargain too. cadogan.com
BOXED UP
Just in time for the Jubilee, Roger Saul – founder of Mulberry and champion of spelt grain produced at his 300-acre eco-friendly, 100 per cent organic Sharpham Park estate – has launched a new range of spelt bran flake breakfast cereal, which is all packaged up in a patriotic Union Jack-emblazoned box. The grain is packed full of iron, zinc, riboflavin and other vitamins and minerals, and is just the thing for a those eschewing wheat in their diets. The box comes in three variations; crunchy spelt bran flakes (£2.99), with dates and walnuts (£3.59) and with berries (£3.99). Available at Sainburys, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, Fortnum and Mason and the Natural Kitchen, or online at sharphampark.com
BLUMMING LOVELY
Hollywood Road is living up to the glamour to which its name alludes in no uncertain terms. And now to add to the roll call of established greats, from the Hollywood Arms to the Santa Lucia pizzeria, comes the launch of Blummyz, a Mediterranean restaurant under the careful watch of chef Stefano Stecca. The brainchild of Swiss entrepreneur Elliot ‘Blummy’ Blum and manager Richard Renaud, its simple continental menu will change weekly; expect such delights as prosciutto di norcia al coltello. A star in the making. 6 Hollywood Road, SW10 89
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ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION
Dog-like devotion From the grooming salon to walks in the park, Pet Pavilion knows how to give pets the life they deserve...
My name is Jack and I’m My name isPet Jack and I’m in charge. Pavilion is My name is Jack and I’m in charge. Pavilion is my favouritePet shop. Heads in charge. Pet Pavilion is my favourite shop. Heads and tails above the rest! my favourite shop. Heads and tails above the rest! and tails above the rest!
T
hose of us who are lucky enough to share our lives with a pet know just how important it is that our furry friends receive the very best treatment when they are away from our loving care. Pet Pavilion, with branches in Chelsea Farmers Market, Gloucester Road, Notting Hill and Wimbledon Village, offers just such high quality care and attention to the discerning pets of London. Founded in 1996 by Andrew and Jenny SavilleEdells, Pet Pavilion grew out of their love for their own dogs, and aims to offer the second-to-none range of services and products that they themselves look for. The couple travels the world to source the best, most exclusive accessories and the healthiest food and treats – some of which are only available at Pet Pavilion. All products can be delivered in London. Pet Pavilion’s sought-after pet grooming service is provided by specialist, experienced groomers, all of whom are vetted by Andrew and Jenny. Their air-conditioned, state-of-the-art salons use the latest equipment to create a tranquil environment for their four-legged clients. The couple and their staff firmly believe that regular grooming is very much part of a dog’s general health and overall wellbeing, with every visit to the salon including a general inspection and close attention to your pet’s teeth, ears, nails and glands. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Pet Pavilion will help you with any requirements or problems you might have, and will advise you if they feel that a visit to the vet might be in order. Their central London dog walking service, which includes pick up and delivery from your home or office, transport in comfortable, safe and air-conditioned luxury pet carriers – and even a complementary drying service with the groomers in case of wet weather – already has a waiting list of eager dogs. petpavilion.co.uk
ChelseaFarmers FarmersMarket Market Chelsea Chelsea Farmers Market 125 Sydney Street 125 Sydney Street 125 Sydney Street London SW3 London SW3 London SW3 020 7376 8800 020 7376 8800 020 7376 8800 GloucesterRoad Road 6060Gloucester 60 Gloucester London SW7 Road London SW7 020 7584 8848 London SW7 020 7584 8848 020 7584 8848
Wimbledon Village Village Wimbledon Wimbledon Village 47 High Street 47 High Street 47 High Street London SW19 SW19 London London 020 8739 8739SW19 2919 020 2919 020 8739 2919 174 Kensington Kensington Church 174 Church St. St. 174 Kensington Church St. London W8 London W8 020 7221W8 1888 London 020 7221 1888 020 7221 1888
www.petpavilion.co.uk www.petpavilion.co.uk www.petpavilion.co.uk
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FOOD&TRAVEL WHY HURLEY?
This exquisite hamlet is small but perfectly formed. All the archetypal English village staples are covered; two cosy pubs with open fires (the superior of which is to be found, naturally, at The Olde Bell), an inn, a cricket club and a parish church. But the real piece-deresistance is its situation on the River Thames. There is no happier pursuit than ambling – or cycling – along its path, either five miles to Henley, or half that distance to Marlowe. It’s no coincidence that Kenneth Grahame’s pastoral classic The Wind in the Willows, was inspired by the scenery in this neck of the woods (Cookham, to be precise, another nearby small town spilling over with charm) – it summons to mind a departed world of tea parties on the lawn, and waterside larks, and as Ratty would advise, ‘messing around on boats’.
GET THERE:
Just 30-minutes from Paddington to Maidenhead, from where a taxi takes about 10 minutes.
UK GETAWAY
Escape to
The Olde Bell, Hurley WHERE TO STAY?
THE ROOMS:
Five buildings, including the main inn, a cottage and a barn, make up The Olde Bell. Designed by Isle Crawford (of Soho House New York fame), the room instantly scores highly on our aesthetic check-list, for it speaks of that rare, but wonderful thing: austere cosiness. There is nothing twee about the vast room, and likewise there is mercifully no token ‘artwork’ adorning the plain straw-coloured walls. Instead, there is a big bed, a roll-top bath, two comfortingly rickety mahogany chairs draped in shaggy throws, and Roberts digital radios provide musical accompaniment at bath time.
THE BATHROOM:
The real winner is the roll-top bath, but for those who prefer to perform their ablutions in more private fashion, the bathroom is also excellently appointed with fluff y white towels, the usual array of luxury potions, and the tiled walls are of the modishly rectangular (think tube station) variety. A master class in why chic simplicity.
Undoubtedly at The Olde Bell, which purports to be the oldest inn in the country (parts of the five-building operation date back to 1135). Indeed, the flawless service, hospitable welcome and inviting warmth (both literal and atmospheric) attest to centuries of innkeeping practice. As you walk in, the pub (a classic, unpretentious country watering hole with flagstones and an open fire) is immediately on the right, while the restaurant (slick, with booths and immaculate 2 AA-rosette winning food) is on the left – a dichotomy which serves the hotel fantastically well. As the ye olde spelling in its name demonstrates, this is an operation well aware of the advantages of its long legacy, but concurrently, exceptionally high contemporary standards are applied throughout. The antiquarian aesthetic is authentic, but there is nothing creaky, draughty or outmoded about anything here. It’s no surprise to learn that just days before us, Kate Moss checked in, similarly retreating from the city.
PRICE TAG:
Rooms from £185 to £325 per night; theoldebell.co.uk
THE RESTAURANT:
Everything you could wish for. The staff are always friendly and never obsequious, and the room is glamorous enough to indicate that you are in for a treat, but real enough to lack pretension (the side booths are intimate, while the rest is furnished with chunky wooden trestle tables). The food is served up by the talented Warren Geraghty, ingredients are locally sourced, and dishes are generously proportioned, beautifully presented and exquisite. Roast sea perch served with chorizo, sea beets, spaetzle and caper butter is a particular treat, washed down with a robust Douro red. The exemplar of hearty but inventive British cuisine. 91
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CITY ESCAPES
URBAN RETREAT Three of the best hotspots for the perfect long weekend
GANSEVOORT MEATPACKING NYC, NEW YORK Bang opposite Soho House, in the super trendy meatpacking district, this hip hotel looks happily at home with its zinccoloured metal panels, glass balconies and changeable coloured lighting. The 187 rooms and 23 suites are sexy sleek with soft-coloured sophisticated interiors, massive minimalist-style bathrooms and the latest bells and whistles (think plasma TVs, iPod docks et al). Ask for one with a balcony or bay window to make the most of the stunning skyline: the Hudson River to the west and the Empire State Building to the north. The rooftop swimming pool
with underwater lights and music is one of the hottest hangouts around, dripping with the great and the good while the bustling alfresco ‘Plunge’ bar serves the most excellent tipples (plump for the martini). If it’s food you’re after, tuck into the fabulous Japanese cuisine at the hotel’s swanky Tanuki Tavern ‘gastropub’ or chill out with a coffee at the Carte Blanche café. In addition, there’s a gorgeous 5,000 sq/ft spa which features a lovely array of treatments and provides the perfect remedy to an NYC hangover. Rates from $425/night for a deluxe room, double occupancy, plus taxes +1 212 206 6700; hotelgansevoort.com
MANDARIN ORIENTAL, PARIS When it comes to hotels, the Mandarin Oriental Group have it down to a fine art. And they have proved that point perfectly with their latest addition in Paris. Situated on the fabulous Rue Saint Honore with its stream of luxurious shops, the 138-room hotel fits in perfectly with its sleek bejewelled entrance hall and rich interiors. The look is east meets west, classic meets contemporary. The suites and bedrooms are lavish but unpretentious – think deep colours, dark wood and lacquer furniture – whilst the beds are huge, wonderfully comfortable with a mile high pile of pillows. Bathrooms are equally gorgeous packed with Diptyque
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FOOD&TRAVEL
MANDARIN ORIENTAL, PARIS
GRAND HOTEL EUROPE, ST PETERSBURG
GANSEVOORT MEATPACKING NYC, NEW YORK
products and white fluffy towels rolled up in oriental-style cubbyholes. Plus the seriously strong power shower leaves you wanting for nothing. The food is fantastic, headed up by culinary genius and Michelin star master, Thierry Marx. There are two restaurants to choose from – either the ‘Sur Mesure par Thierry Marx’ with its amazing nine or 13-course tasting menu or the petal-shaped ‘Camelia’ which gives way to the hotel’s centrepiece: an eastinspired garden where tables hide amongst the towering trees and flowing greenery. Rates from £635 per night 00800 28 28 38 38; mandarinoriental.com/paris
GRAND HOTEL EUROPE, ST PETERSBURG
Tchaikovsky, Dostoevsky, Anna Pavlova… the list of guests goes on for this 130-year-old opulent masterpiece in the Nevsky Prospekt. And quite rightly so. With glittering art nouveau interiors and rich furnishings, the whole place sings of imperial Russia. The 301 suites are like state rooms with humungous beds, high ceilings, deep colours and luxurious fabrics. The umpteen restaurants (five in total plus eight bars) are likewise incredible. Plump for the Caviar Bar and try the truly unique egg in egg – in short, boiled egg stuffed with caviar. Alternatively, indulge in the haute cuisine at L’Europa or hang out
in the newly refurbished Lobby Bar with its marble floor, wood panelling and stain-glass windows. Breakfast is also scrumptious groaning with everything you could possibly want from crêpes and scrambled eggs to buckets of caviar and even beef stroganoff. Then skip out into the city and explore the endless sights: The Hermitage Museum, the Church on Spilled Blood, the Marinsky Theatre and, slightly further out, the Peterhof Palace. Amazing! British Airways flies to St Petersburg from Heathrow. £695pp based on flights from LHR, staying for three nights or £575pp based on flights from LHR, staying for two nights. To book visit ba.com or call 0844 4930787 93
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the artificial grass company
www.easigrass.com
0845 094 8880 Quote “Absolutely” for a free measure
CHELS RHS EA SHOW FLOWER 2012
FRESH CATEOGARDEN GORY Easig ras at the s will be May 2 show 2-26th
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WELCOME TO MIAMI There’s more to the Magic City than scantily clad beach bums. David Vincent takes a crash course in contemporary art via a tour of its toweringly brilliant private collections - much to derision of his friends
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arl Lagerfeld holding court at the Shore Club, Benedikt Taschen ending up naked in the pool at Terry Richardson’s book party, Pamela Anderson and Robert Rauschenberg on Ocean Drive, Sophia Coppola and Donna Karan dancing the night away at the Raleigh hotel, Yoko Ono and Spencer Tunick at the Sagamore, Fischerspooner playing at George Lindemann’s island estate, Iggy Pop belting out on the beach… Come the arrival of the Art Basel Miami Beach fair in Miami, and the Magic City transforms into an art-addled playground for collectors, gallerists and artists – as well as an obligatory pit-stop for the jetset. The city that provided a bolthole for Al Capone and inspired Brian De Palma’s Scarface hosts the biggest art extravaganza in the world, exhibiting museum-quality pieces by Picasso, Braque, Van Gogh as well as the likes of Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin. But, when all the great and the good head back home to their four white walls, though few realise it, some of the best contemporary art in the world is still to be seen in the city’s museums and private collections – minus the crowds. A handful of influential collectors – Don and Mera Rubell, Marty Margulies, Carlos and Rosa de la Cruz, Norman and Irma Braman, Dennis and Debra Scholl, Craig Robins and George Lindemann – have added an intellectual dimension to
a place better known for its drug money, swanky boutique hotels, hedonistic nightclubs, beaches and unlimited supply of bare flesh. My swanky boutique hotel is the Dream South Beach and it is a bit of a work of art itself. Nestled just behind the Versace mansion and the beach, two landmarked Art Deco hotels, the Palmer House and the Tudor Hotel, have been combined into one and lavished with oodles of cash and a lot of French-Moroccan and Indian interior je ne sais quoi – there’s still a lot of stunning Art Deco touches for officiandos of the genre but this is a fantasia like nothing else you will find in Miami. The rooms are jewel boxes: cool blue lighting, modern crystal vertical chandeliers, whitefiligreed headboards, silver metal tables, huge beds… it is a little Seventies pimptastic, but in the best possible way. When it is cool enough to venture outside, I drive to Miami’s Design District to meet Rosa de la Cruz, co-founder of the De La Cruz Collection Contemporary Art Space and one of Miami’s uber-collectors. She is a petite lady in her sixties, elegantly dressed in a pristine white Lacoste top, chinos and brown loafers. As I enter her office, a white neon sign suddenly lights up above her head. It reads, ‘F*ck off.’ She spots my reaction and laughs. ‘It’s a Martin Creed piece,’ she tells me. The collection is vast. In fact, there is more floor space here than at the Miami Art Museum or
Miami’s Museum of Contemporary Art. As she shows me round, I spot works by Tracey Emin, Rachel Harrison, Martin Kippenberger, Rufino Tamaya, Consuelo Castañeda, Naomi Fisher, Cristina Lei Rodriguez, and Cosima von Bonin sculptures expounding on the symbols of war. On the third floor much of the space is given over to Felix Gonzalez-Torres’s conceptual installations, including his iconic paper stacks and candy spills. As we talk Rosa tells me to pick a candy from the pile if I’d like one. I bend down, grab one, unwrap it and start chewing. She looks at me in horror. ‘I can’t believe you did that. I was joking,’ she says shocked. ‘Do you know how much that piece is worth? You’ve ruined it.’ I turn ash white and offer up the soggy sweet for re-wrapping, as Rosa starts laughing her head off. Apparently, Mr Torres meant the candy to be consumed by the viewers and the artwork which is measured by weight is constantly replenished. Rosa also houses part of her art in the family house on Key Biscayne. Here, she’s relegated herself and hubbie to the ‘attic’ while room after room is devoted to the likes of Assume Astro Vivid Focus, Christian Holstad and Jonathan Meese. After, pocketing a handful of sweets in revenge for Rosa’s exposé of me as an art ignoramus, I head to the Wynwood arts district just a mile south. Wynwood is mainly a Puerto Rican community. It used
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FOOD&TRAVEL
Miami-must see private collections ASSUME VIVID ASTRO FOCUS’ INSTALLATION AT WYWOOD WALLS (ABOVE) AND SPENCER TUNICK’S MIAMI BEACH 2 (SAGAMORE) 2007 (BELOW) UNDERLINE HOW FAR MIAMI HAS BECOME A SERIOUS PLAYER ON THE ART SCENE
DE LA CRUZ COLLECTION (23 NE 41st St: 305 576 6112; delacruzcollection.org) Impressive collection of contemporary painting, sculpture, mixed media, video, and installation pieces. It is also partly housed in Rosa and Carlos De la Cruz’s home on Key Biscayne, where works include by Kelley Walker, Christian Holstad, Felix Gonzalez-Torres and Assume Astro Vivid Focus (inquire at the collection about the occasional tours) RUBELL FAMILY COLLECTION (95 NW 29 St; 305 573 6090; rubellfamilycollection.com). Works including: Paul McCarthy, Jason Rhodes, John Baldessari, Nathan Mabry, Hernan Bas and John Stezaker
to be known as the Fashion District and there are row-upon-row of brightly painted pink, green and blue one-storey clothing warehouses and derelict garment factories – all ripe for conversion into artists’ studios, galleries and huge exhibition spaces. It is home to two of the other great Miami collections, the Rubell and Margulies collections, as well as some of the galleries that have upped sticks and moved here. For five dollars, you can get access to the Rubell Family Collection. It is housed in an old DEA confiscation depot that was used for filming the original Miami Vice series. On the outside it is grey and daunting, on the inside all is white and open spaces, filled admittedly with some rather dark art installations. Don Rubell says his collection is about ‘sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll.’ It is mainly sex in my book. One installation, Oh, Charley, Charley, Charley, a 1992 fiberglass sculpture by Charles Ray of eight nude figures of himself in the midst of an orgy is sure to make some blush. Mera Rubell, another elegantly dressed woman with some rather zany blue plastic specs, observes my reaction to this. ‘Hmmm, self-sex or is it self-love, some people get disturbed by this,’ I say, suddenly thinking I’m starting to get the hang of this contemporary art malarkey. At the Margulies Collection, which is probably the most extensive of the three, I spot the famous Gilles Barbier L’Hospice installation of six ageing
superheroes. Wonderwoman, The Hulk, Catwoman and Superman are all in states of decrepitude and living in a nursing home. ‘It’s funny. We are conditioned to think superheroes should never age,’ I start discussing with my friends once back at the hotel and munching on a roasted langoustine on the shaded terrazzo terrace of the Tudor House restaurant – this is the acclaimed new Miami eatery by Michelin starred chef Geoffrey Zakarian. ‘We see youthfulness as power and age as weakness these days, though I guess we always wanted immortality.’ I’m abruptly silenced by a chorus of bellows: ‘Can you eat the food, this is the best restaurant in town, and lay off pretending you know the slightest thing about art.’ I beg to differ after my de la Cruz/ Rubell baptism but then along comes a dish of braised short ribs like nothing I’ve seen before. Now, this is real art. And it taste a lot better than that of Felix Gonzalez-Torres. STAY Dream South Beach Hotel, rooms from $249 per night; dreamsouthbeach.com GETTING THERE British Airways (ba.com, 0844 493 0787) flies London Heathrow to Miami International from £568.99 rtn, all-inclusive Car hire at Miami International: Dollar Rent Car (0203 468 7685, dollar.co.uk) from £118.94 per week, fully inclusive.
MARTIN Z MARGULIES COLLECTION (591 NW 27th St; 305 576 1051; margulieswarehouse.com). 45,000sqft of photography, video, sculpture and art installation. (Cindy Sherman to Vanessa Beecroft). Works included ones by Zilvinas Kempinas, Hiraki Sawa, Eija-Liisa Ahtila, John Szarkowski, Danny Lyon, Olafur Eliasson and Alec Soth. CIFO (1018 N Miami Ave; 305 455 3380; cifo.org) A showcase for emerging contemporary artists from Latin America and artworks from its founder, the influential collector Ella Fontanals-Cisneros. WORLD CLASS BOXING (170 NW 23rd St; 305 438 9908) Created by collectors Dennis and Debra Scholl in a former boxing gym, it focuses on contemporary painting, drawing, sculpture, video and photography
MUSEUMS MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART (MOCA) (125 St; 305 893 6211; mocanomi.org) MIAMI ART MUSEUM (101 W. Flagler St; 305 375 3000; miamiartmuseum.org) BASS (2121 Park Avenue, South Beach; 305 673 7530; bassmuseum.org)
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OVER 425 DAY TIME AND EVENING COURSES SPREAD OVER 12 WEEKS WITH OPTIONAL CENTR AL LONDON ACCOMMODATION
C E NTR A L S AI NT M A RTI N S C O LLE G E O F A RTS & D E S IG N SUMMER SCHOOL 2012 OVER 425 COURSES FOR BEGINNERS THROUGH TO PROFESSIONALS: FINE ART COMPUTING ANIMATION GRAPHIC DESIGN CREATIVE PROCESS ARCHITECTURE ILLUSTRATION DRAWING BALLET INTERIOR DESIGN FASHION BUSINESS SKILLS JEWELLERY FILM AND VIDEO CERAMICS
PAINTING PERFORMANCE PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO PREPARATION PRINTMAKING
PRODUCT DESIGN SCULPTURE TEXTILES THEATRE DESIGN WRITING
PLUS THESE COURSES: 13 – 15 YEAR OLDS / 16 – 18 YEAR OLDS / DUAL CITY SUMMER: MILAN, BARCELONA, PARIS / ENGLISH PLUS – ARCHITECTURE, ART, FASHION OR GRAPHICS / SUMMER STUDY ABROAD WITH CREDITS OPTION SUMMER SCHOOL WEB LISTINGS AND SECURE ONLINE BOOKINGS:
W W W.C S M. AR T S . AC. UK / S U M M ER TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES: +44 (0)20 7514 7015
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FOOD&TRAVEL
IN SEASON
The ever-brilliant Four Seasons group is having a prolific year, with five new hotels opening worldwide. Up first is Hotel Baku, its Azerbaijan launch in May, a Beaux-Art waterfront retreat with views over the Caspian Sea. Over summer its sights are set east and west, with openings in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Toronto, the latter of which hotel teams up with restaurateur David Boulud. And finally, September heralds the arrival of the Hotel Lion Palace in St Petersburg in a 19thcentury palace built for Princess LobanovvaRostovskaya. fourseasons.com
THE GREATEST SHOAL ON EARTH
Nature unfailingly proves its might over man when it comes to ocular feasts, and the annual sardine migration in June along South Africa’s east coast proves it in spades; in fact, so fi lmic is it that Jaques Perain was even nominated for an Oscar when he captured the phenomenon on camera in his Disney production Oceans. Now’s the time to book your pew to see it for yourself, and handily, Mantis’s Port Elizabeth-based Shamwari Townhouse and its nearby Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve in Port Alfred have teamed up with Expert Tours, a Port Elizabeth marine adventure company specialising in tours to view the sardines migrate. And if they were good enough escorts for Perain, they’re quite good enough for us. mantiscollection.com
APRIL
TRAVEL NOTES THE LIFE AQUATIC
HEAVEN SCENT
As any seasoned traveller knows, countryhopping is a much pared-down affair these days. The strict 100ml liquid limit means that we arrive at the most glam destinations feeling olfactorily unequal to the situation. Enter then Rosewood hotels’ introduction of a complimentary, round-the-clock fragrance butler, with each selection tailored to the particular hotel and served up on a silver platter. rosewoodhotels.com
From now until October, as the wet season draws to its close, Malaysian Tanjong Jara Resort offers guests the chance to be transported to tropical island Pulau Tenggol, one of the world’s most spectacular dive sites. Terengganu Marine Park is home to untouched coral gardens and the rare aquatic life that inhabits it; expect to glimpse giant manta rays and even the world’s largest fish, the whale shark. Tenggol Diver’s Escape package costs £205 per night, including two days diving, inclusive of a barbeque lunch. Until 30 September 2012.
BACCHINALIAN REVELS
The Dylan, our long-time favourite Amsterdam hotel has just announced a ‘High Wine’ package for spring. Oenophiles can check in for two nights with breakfast and an ‘experience’ that would do Bacchus proud: four fine wines from the cellar accompanied with amuse bouches, pleasingly decadently taken in the afternoon from 3pm – 7pm. Oh, and there’s also free use of the hotel’s bikes – though perhaps before ‘the experience’ would be advisable. £375 per person, dylanamsterdam.com 99
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Fashionable feet head for Portobello Road Like a river of delights Portobello Road runs from Notting Hill to Golborne Road via the Westway and Portobello Green. Famous for antiques, vintage and fashion markets, amazing food, unique shops and the North African delights of Golborne Road.
Sasti is where you’ll find Rosie Life’s great R.Life kids label. From stylish babywear to fun pieces for boys and girls up to 10. Plus fantastic original gifts for new mums and children. www.sasti.co.uk
Bag a bargain, uncover a hidden treasure, or just enjoy the atmosphere of London’s most bohemian street.
Find us under the Westway at: Portobello Green Arcade 281 Portobello Road London W10 5TZ Sasti, Unit 6 Tel. 020 8960 1125 Email: sales@sasti.co.uk www.portobellodesigners.com Untitled-6 1
Portobello Green’s 20 boutiques include: A Creative Unit Adam of London Isis Haizhen Wang Studio In Bloom Philmore Clague Preen Lunetier Sarah Bunting Sasti
Steve Bell The Chinese Tea Company Trapstar Valli Colpani Verde What Katie Did Zarvis Plus: Le Petit Café Mo’s Café
30/03/2012 13:27
SOCIAL
KIM HERSOV, ANGELA MISSONI AND TAMARA BECKWITH
TAMARA BECKWITH AND LINDA JOHNSON
EMMA FORBES
Absolutely
SOCIAL
MARION KHALILI
LINDA JOHNSON
MARTHA WARD
MISSONI STATEMENT
LILY HODGES AND LILY BECKER
BRONWYN FITZPATRICK AND ANGELA DUNN
ELSA PINTALD AND KIM HERSOV
The beautiful people flocked to Sloane Street last month (plus ca change) for an evening hosted by Kim Hersov and Angela Missoni at the latter’s eponymous boutique to witness the unveiling of the fashion house’s new summer collection, as styled by Hersov. The likes of Lily Becker, Tamara Beckwith and Lily Hodges turned out to feast their eyes on the clothes and their stomachs on fi llet of Hereford beef, saff ron risotto and fresh burrata, followed by blood orange and passion fruit sorbets.
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CARLUCCIO RECIPE.indd 83
30/03/2012 22:51
ABSOLUTELY PROPERTY APRIL 2012
WETHERBY PLACE, SOUTH KENSINGTON SW7 A most unusual newly built studio house discreetly located off Wetherby Place and behind Hereford Square.
ÂŁ3,350,000 Freehold
PROPERTY FRONT COVER APR12indd 63
020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
30/03/2012 21:33
Knowledge is knowing what you want. Know-how is getting it.
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30/03/2012 13:23
Local know-how. Better results. sales@marshandparsons.co.uk lettings@marshandparsons.co.uk marshandparsons.co.uk
Untitled-6 1
30/03/2012 13:24
Local know-how. Better results. Our OfďŹ ces:
Brook Green
Hammersmith
Mayfair
Balham
Chelsea
Holland Park
North Kensington
Barnes
Clapham
Kensington
Notting Hill
Battersea
Fulham
Little Venice
Pimlico
Lennox Gardens SW1 ÂŁ3,250,000 This stunning apartment has been completely refurbished and redesigned by an internationally renowned firm of architects, creating a clean, modern space that seamlessly fits into this grand garden square property. The apartment provides a beautiful reception room, a dedicated dining room, a guest cloakroom and a large master bedroom with a bespoke en suite bathroom and private roof terrace. Lennox Gardens is conveniently nestled between South Kensington and Sloane Square. Leasehold. Sole Agents.
CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
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30/03/2012 13:24
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons
Join us on Facebook: facebook/marshandparsons.co.uk
Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons
SALES
Our style of selling property in Chelsea is different.
It’s a balancing act. On one side, our professionalism and enthusiasm. On the other, just the right amount of determination.
Over the last 150 years, we’ve perfected the right balance in our approach, so you enjoy a great experience and get the results you want.
We give the same level of dedication to selling all properties, regardless of the value.
We also never forget that houses and flats are your homes first and foremost.
Moore Park Road SW6 £2,350,000 This lovely house provides a double reception room leading to a south facing terrace, a contemporary kitchen/dining area and a large, open plan games room. The bedroom accommodation includes two double bedrooms (both en suite) and a master suite with a retracting roof section and south facing balcony. Freehold. Sole Agents.
“A recent seller from Tedworth Square told us we were the best agent he had ever worked with! He has since given us two more properties to sell."
Our Chelsea sales manager FULHAM: 020 7736 9822 sales.ful@marshandparsons.co.uk
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30/03/2012 13:24
Local know-how. Better results. Our Offices:
Brook Green
Hammersmith
Mayfair
Balham
Chelsea
Holland Park
North Kensington
Barnes
Clapham
Kensington
Notting Hill
Battersea
Fulham
Little Venice
Pimlico
Draycott Place SW3 £1,100,000 This wonderful split-level property boasts high ceilings and generous reception space including a galley kitchen, a fabulous reception room to the front of the property with wonderfully high ceilings, two large double bedrooms both with en suite bathrooms building and rare communal garden accessed via the ground floor level. Draycott Avenue is a popular road that runs parallel to the King’s Road and is a short walk form the fantastic array of local amenities and transport links. Freehold. Sole Agents.
CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 sales.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
Untitled-6 1
30/03/2012 13:24
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons
Join us on Facebook: facebook/marshandparsons.co.uk
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SALES
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Courtfield Gardens SW5 £1,775,000 This beautifully refurbished apartment benefits from a striking reception room with double height ceilings and a balcony overlooking the delightful communal gardens. The accommodation also includes a a separate kitchen, a study, a double bedroom with en suite bathroom and a further bathroom. Share of Freehold. Joint Sole Agent. EARLS COURT: 020 7835 0620 sales.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk
Bramham Gardens SW5 £1,050,000 This striking lower ground floor apartment offers a generous interior with amazing lighting, private patio garden and direct access to the delightful communal gardens. The accommadation also comprises a substantial reception room with beautiful fireplace, a modern, fully fitted kitchen, a large bedroom with fitted wardrobes and en suite bathroom and a guest cloakroom. Share of Freehold. EARLS COURT: 020 7835 0620 sales.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk
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30/03/2012 13:25
Local know-how. Better results. Our Offices:
Brook Green
Hammersmith
Mayfair
Balham
Chelsea
Holland Park
North Kensington
Barnes
Clapham
Kensington
Notting Hill
Battersea
Fulham
Little Venice
Pimlico
When it comes to letting your property in Chelsea:
Our team understand that experience and speed are of the essence.
We are located in London’s prime residential areas. ur o fices work together to find you the perfect, reliable tenant uick y and e ficient y
On average it takes just...
hrs or us to find a tenant or your property
We then aim to complete the deal through to exchange within another:
72 hours thereby minimisin the chances of the transaction falling through.
“Having been on the market with other agents, we recently let a property on Cromwell Place, achieving the asking price within just 24 hours!"
Beaufort Gardens SW3 £1,600 per week Presented in immaculate condition throughout, this stunning penthouse apartment provides an impressive reception room with access to a private roof terrace, a contemporary fitted kitchen, a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and access to the terrace, a second double bedroom and an additional shower room.
Our Chelsea lettings manager CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 lets.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
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30/03/2012 13:25
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons
Join us on Facebook: facebook/marshandparsons.co.uk
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LETTINGS
See all of our properties online: marshandparsons.co.uk
Philbeach Gardens SW5 £1,200 per week This superb maisonette is located close to the amenities of Earls Court and Old Brompton Road. The property boasts wooden floors and high ceilings throughout, a large reception room, a separate modern eat-in kitchen with a private patio and direct access onto the communal gardens, four bedrooms - all with good storage and en suite bathrooms, a further WC and a utility room. EARLS COURT: 020 7835 0620 lets.ect@marshandparsons.co.uk
Kinnerton Place North SW1 £1,200 per week Perfectly situated on a quiet street in Belgravia, this mews house is presented in immaculate condition throughout. The accommodation boasts a spacious and bright reception room with a contemporary kitchen and a spacious double bedroom with a modern en suite bathroom. Located a short walk from the International boutiques of Knightsbridge and the green space of Hyde Park. CHELSEA: 020 7591 5570 lets.chs@marshandparsons.co.uk
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30/03/2012 13:26
Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London
carterjonas.co.uk
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30/03/2012 12:27
KNIGHTSBRIDGE
Sterling Street SW7 This extremely attractive period house situated in the heart of Knightsbridge has been refurbished to the highest standards. A first class property in a prime address. 2 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • Garden
Guide price £4,500,000 Freehold
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
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30/03/2012 12:27
Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London
carterjonas.co.uk
SOUTH KENSINGTON
Courtfield Gardens SW5 A fabulous interior designed one bedroom flat on the first floor of a period house with a west facing balcony and beautiful views over the garden square. The flat would make an ideal home or rental investment. Reception room • Bedroom • Bathroom • Kitchen • Balcony
Guide price £1,350,000 Leasehold
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
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SOUTH KENSINGTON
Courtfield Gardens SW5 An attractively presented maisonette overlooking Courtfield Gardens. The reception room benefits from wooden floors and high ceilings and the kitchen is large, well equipped and modern. The property is ideally placed for the amenities of South Kensington. 2 reception rooms • 3 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms Access to communal gardens
Guide price £1,950,000 Leasehold
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
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Offices throughout the UK including 5 in London
carterjonas.co.uk
CHELSEA
Cheyne Place SW3 A unique split level top floor flat with amazing views of the Physic gardens and River Thames. The property includes a spacious south facing reception room leading to a balcony, excellent for entertaining. 2 double bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Reception room Kitchen • Cloakroom • Balcony • Lift
£1,495 per week Furnished/ Unfurnished
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
SOUTH KENSINGTON
Emperors Gate SW7 A stunning apartment on the fourth floor of a newly refurbished building. The apartment includes a large reception room with a fully equipped modern open plan kitchen and space for dining. 2 bedrooms • Shower room • Reception room • Kitchen Lift
£1,200 per week Furnished
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
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KNIGHTSBRIDGE
CHELSEA
Montpelier Walk SW7
Cheyne Place SW3
A newly refurbished town house situated in the heart of Knightsbridge.
A modern two bedroom fourth floor flat in a popular portered building.
4 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • 2 reception rooms • Terrace
2 bedrooms • Bathroom • Reception room • Open plan kitchen Lift
£2,250 per week
£795 per week
Unfurnished
Furnished
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
WESTMINSTER
SOUTH KENSINGTON
Warwick Square Mews SW1
Harrington Gardens SW7
A stunning light and bright, newly refurbished mews house in the heart of Pimlico.
A stunning newly refurbished duplex apartment arranged over the top two floors of a Victorian house.
2 bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Large reception room • Kitchen Study /guest room
3 double bedrooms • 2 bathrooms • Living room with open plan kitchen • Access to communal gardens • Private roof terrace
£895 per week
£1,600 per week
Unfurnished
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
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Furnished/Unfurnished
Knightsbridge & Chelsea 020 7584 7020 knightsbridge@carterjonas.co.uk
30/03/2012 12:28
HERITAGE...
THE KEY TO A POSITIVE FUTURE With roots that go back more than two centuries, our heritage means a great deal to us. But it’s the future that counts. That’s what makes us one of the strongest names in the property business; doing what’s best for our clients and making sure the vast range of advice we offer enhances their future prosperity. Whether selling, letting or buying, there’s never been a better time to call us on 020 3018 2361 or find us online at CARTERJONAS.CO.UK/KEY
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30/03/2012 12:29
PROPERTY
Property Absolutely SW5 News Christopher Simon, Faron Sutaria
FAVOURITE RESTAURANT? Capote y Toros – an intimate local restaurant serving amazing Spanish tapas and a huge selection of fine sherries. There is always a lively atmosphere. SW5’S BEST KEPT SECRET? Coleherne Court Mansion apartments, where Princess Diana once resided, has beautiful private landscaped gardens. THE FINEST COCKTAIL COMES FROM... Nam Long Le Shaker – Home of the Flaming Ferrari Cocktail and other lavish cocktails and fine Oriental cuisine.
BYWATER STREET, SW3 £2,500,000 FREEHOLD
A beautiful and stylish townhouse on this desirable cul de sac off the world famous King’s Road. All elegance, it combines contemporary detail and traditional features and is arranged over four floors. It comprises two reception rooms, an open-plan kitchen/dining room and three bedrooms with a fourth bedroom-cum-study. There are two elegant bathrooms, a roof terrace and a cloakroom. The King’s Road is, of course, a shopper’s paradise with world famous designer boutiques, restaurants and nightlife close by, and Sloane Square Underground Station is just moments away. In accordance with the Estate Agents Act 1979, we would like to inform you that the vendor of this property is associated with Wilfords. 020 7361 0400; wilfords.com
FOR THAT SOMEONE SPECIAL? Only Roses – it has an amazing window display and an extensive selection of beautiful roses, which are a perfect treat for anyone!
MARKET COMMENT A LOST HOUR IN SW5 WOULD
BE SPENT... At The Troubadour, listening to live music and discovering new talent in this famous cafe-cumwine-bar-cum-music-venue where greats such as Jimmy Hendrix and Bob Dylan played in the 60s. AN EXCEPTIONAL SW5 PROPERTY? Collingham Place, £1.595m, 020 7835 1577; faronsutaria.co.uk
MARKET COMMENT GEORGINA CLARKE, JACKSON STOPS The lettings market has softened slightly in the New Year with a noticeable lack of corporate activity. There is still, however, less stock on the market which means prices remain strong, but it is not necessarily the landlord’s market of the past 18 months. Now that we are post-Budget and in the new financial year, we should expect an increase in corporate activity and a surge of new graduates and employees. Landlords should remain sensitive to the week-by-week nature of the rentals market and price their properties realistically. Investment landlords should always take the conservative figure given by agents, so that they are not squeezed if the market levels off. 020 7828 4050 119
PROPERTY NEWS.indd 119
30/03/2012 21:35
Crown Lodge, SW3
Smith Street, SW3
ÂŁ1,150,000 | Share of Freehold ÂŁ2,600 p.w
Unfurnished
Excellent two bedroom flat on the ground floor of this sought after and prestigious modern building. The apartment boasts the excellent feature Aofbeautiful period family house which been refurbished a high standard, the Lodge property offers great entertaining space and with has access to a having two french doors opening uphas to the front gardens to of the building. Crown is set in beautiful communal gardens its Koi Carp private theWisteria rear. Situated this sought after street close to all amenities Chelsea.underground car parking space and leisure centre stockedgarden pond at and drapedin walkway. There is 24 hour porterage with CCTVofsecurity, with its large swimming pool. Period home, Four/five bedrooms, Master bedroom, En-suite and dressing area, Three reception rooms, Dining room, Kitchen, Laundry area, Garden. Reception room with french doors, Two bedrooms, Two bathrooms (one en suite), Kitchen, Parking space, 24 hour porterage, Leisure centre with swimming pool.
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011 020 7581 5011
Untitled-4 HENRY &1JAMES APRIL12.indd 1
chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk lettings@henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
30/03/2012 29/03/2012 12:37 10:37
Graham Terrace, SW1W
Smith Street, SW3
£1,500 p.w | Furnished
£2,600 p.w
Unfurnished
A most attractively presented two bedroom, two bathroom maisonette located on a quiet street in the heart of Belgravia and just a few minutes’ Awalk beautiful period family house has been refurbished to aand highstylishly standard, the property offers tones. great entertaining space haskitchen, access to a from Sloane Square. Thewhich property has been renovated furnished in neutral The light and airyand eat-in fully private garden theappliances, rear. Situated in this after street to all amenities of Chelsea. equipped withatnew is open tosought the reception, bothclose bedrooms have bespoke fitted wardrobes and there is an additional study/storage room on the ground floor. Period home, Four/five bedrooms, Master bedroom, En-suite and dressing area, Three reception rooms, Dining room, Kitchen, Laundry area, Garden. Reception room, Eat-in kitchen, Two bedrooms, Two bathrooms, Study/storage room.
2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 2 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU 020 7581 5011 020 7581 5011
Untitled-4 HENRY &1JAMES APRIL12.indd 2
chelseaoffice@henryandjames.co.uk lettings@henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk henryandjames.co.uk
30/03/2012 29/03/2012 12:38 10:37
PROPERTY
TIM MACPHERSON
‘‘
Partner, Carter Jonas PHOTO: RICHARD CLARK
T
he year has started on a positive note for both the central London sales and lettings markets, with increased levels of activity recorded across both divisions. However, despite the three-year anniversary of historically low interest rates at 0.5 per cent, a growing sense of realism has been witnessed thus far. This caution has stretched to the upper end of the market, which remained largely immune in 2011. That said, forecasts for both markets remain positive for 2012, although a growing divergence between prime and secondary product is projected to emerge within the sales market throughout the year. The Olympics will be the key driver behind forecast growth within the lettings market. After a slow start to 2012, the prime central London residential market gathered momentum in late January with activity levels reportedly returning to average-to-long term levels. Encouragingly, in recent weeks, a significant number of properties have come onto the market, providing a welcome addition to the very restrained stock levels evident across the capital. However, despite this rise, the market is still way off plentiful stock levels. ‘Best in class’ product continues to command premium prices and indeed is setting precedents in terms of values, which now stand well above 2007 levels. That said, purchasers are becoming increasingly selective across the market, including properties over £5 million. Viewing numbers across our five central London offices rocketed by 256 per cent between the end of December to end of January 2012, with Holland Park and Marylebone offices witnessing particularly notable increases during the month. Consequently, the ratio between viewings and offers across Central London as a whole improved from mid-February and has maintained its level since. Activity within the £2m - £5m bracket slowed during last quarter of 2011, although it has since picked up pace. Availability of properties up to £2m remains in short supply and consequently when product comes to the market, irrespective of quality, it tends to sell immediately. Pricing for properties over £5 million has held firm since the beginning of the year, although it has been subject to a growing sense of caution with purchasers becoming more price conscious. But in contrast to recent demand profiles, English purchasers have become more active within the market this year and have been responsible for a recent flurry of activity, principally at the top end of the market. This activity has followed a long period of monitoring and speculation, with London’s continuing ‘safe haven’ status undoubtedly assisting in their decision to progress. Despite the growing sense of realism, demand is forecast to remain buoyant during the year and values for prime product are projected to rise by 5-7 per cent by its end. That said, a growing divergence between the best and the rest is predicted to emerge, with secondary product, particularly over £2m, beginning to stagnate. carterjonas.co.uk
AGENT SPEAKS APRIL 12_v2.indd 122
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In their own words 123
AGENT SPEAKS APRIL 12_v2.indd 123
30/03/2012 21:37
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30/03/2012 13:31
Introducing the Naked Estate Agent. Why do clients recommend us to their friends? They say it’s our bespoke service. It’s more personal and more effective because we have nothing to hide. No long term contracts to be tied into. No over-valuing properties to win instructions. No empty promises. And when we tell you we do our very best to get the price you had in mind, this is exactly what we do. Right now we’re achieving the highest prices in our area. And that’s the bare truth.
hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
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Specialists in Selling
30/03/2012 13:31
Kensington W8 Perfectly proportioned, beautifully presented and brilliantly located
Reception room Kitchen Two double bedrooms Luxurious bathroom Cloakroom The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea 1,151 sq ft / 106.9 sq m £1.395 million Leasehold – Residue of 125 year lease from May 2011 Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Untitled-6 1
Specialists in Selling
30/03/2012 13:32
Chepstow Place W2 One of Notting Hill’s most visionary buildings seeks a buyer with an equal amount of vision
Entrance hall Kitchen, dining, reception room Three bedrooms, three bathrooms Lateral accommodation Two secure, underground parking spaces 24hr Porter and lift 1,882 sq ft / 174.8 sq m Guide Price ÂŁ2.75 million Share of Freehold Sole Agent hello@crayson.com T 020 7221 1117 10 Lambton Place London W11 2SH
Untitled-6 1
Specialists in Selling
30/03/2012 13:32
Fabulous
Fulham News, views... and rugby shoes
Familial ties
A
nybody who has lived or worked in Fulham over the last few years will not have failed to have noticed some real changes in the area. Large numbers of French and Italian families have made the local cafes and shops seem much more cosmopolitan; the restaurants and schools have improved both in choice and in quality beyond all recognition, and the community as a whole seems to be in high spirits. It could just be the sunshine I suppose, but it seems to an old codger like me that this is Fulham really is a much nicer place to live than it has ever been.’ ‘In a similar sense of community spirit, we at Hamptons are delighted to be sponsoring Hammersmith and Fulham Rugby Football Club youth teams. Sunday mornings in Hurlingham Park are hugely impressive, with literally hundreds of children being coached and obviously having great fun. We wish them every success for the end of the season and we look forward to continuing our relationship next year’. Robert Stuart, Hamptons International; hamptons.co.uk
TOURNAY ROAD, SW6 FREEHOLD £1,650,000
An elegant five/six double-bedroom Victorian terraced house in a popular Fulham street. The property is arranged over an impressive 2400 sq ft and features an elegant double reception room with bay window and a pretty period fireplace. There is also a lovely family bathroom with underfloor heating and separate shower and an impressive kitchen/breakfast room with a large range, underfloor heating and a conservatory-style extension leading onto an attractive walled garden. Extremely convenient for the shops, restaurants and underground station at Fulham Broadway. 6 Bedrooms, 1 Reception Room, 2 Bathrooms, garden. 020 7610 2080; faronsutaria.co.uk
Feeling wrong (square) footed? “James, SW6 is now firmly over the £1000/sq’ mark, and not just in the fancy parts!”. I seem to be hearing this every time I discuss the Fulham market. Can someone tell me when we became fixated with ‘pound per square foot’ as the sole measure of residential property value? Was it in the same period of general acceptance that we collectively allowed grown adults to ride miniscooters in public without being mocked and pelted with fruit? Of course, £/sq should not be ignored but by definition it’s a retrospective line in the sand, showing historic market growth. Professionals use it as a platform on which to base value but there are other important variables to consider, notably the aesthetics, layout, condition, street position, aspect, view, tenure, desirability, garden size and the unquantifiable element of ‘feel’. It is an overly clinical measure which reveals its roots in the commercial sector. On many occasions I’ve broken a streets £/ sq record buying for (sometimes nervous) clients but it was always to secure the BEST (not specifically the largest) property. Guess what, when they have sold years later, they have set new precedents again, as there is always a market for quality. My advice? Value is not always found in a spreadsheet. Take a holistic view of a property when calculating its worth and don’t be afraid to pay for the best. - James Vlasto 07896 262001 badgemoor.com
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FAB FULHAM CHARM CHELSEA.indd 128
30/03/2012 21:38
PROPERTY Taxing times
I
have a friend who runs a tax consultancy firm for non-resident landlords. He is a cynical sod but usually right, so I like to pick his brains whenever there are any legislative proposals in the pipeline; we have terrifically nerdy chats about legal and tax issues and their potential ramifications for the property market. His view? The simple fact that the government has raised charging Capital Gains Tax and an Annual Property Asset Tax on offshore companies may lead to many companies being wound up. I quote: ‘The CGT exemption has contributed significantly to the current state of the upper echelons of the London property market. There is a ‘ready made’ case for withdrawing it on the grounds that it is contrary to the general aim of EU tax policy.’ George Osborne wants to implement CGT and a property-based wealth tax in 2013 for non-residents, and I think we should take him at face value. To me it is not fair that any non-resident should be CGT exempt when a UK-based investor would be paying 28 per cent on any gains selling a property other than their home. I suggest an internationally competitive rate of 10 - 15 per cent. Not enough to put foreign investors off but enough to raise revenue. SDLT (Property Purchase Tax) is now seven per cent on purchases above £2m. This is going in completely the wrong direction! Until 1997, Stamp Duty was 1 per cent all the way up. With rates this high people are reluctant to sell and re-buy property which is bad for the economy as a whole; high transaction taxes are known to lessen turnover so the increase in revenue to HMRC will be limited. Revenues raised through CGT on non-residents should be put towards reducing SDLT which in turn will directly lead to increased turnover. patrick@stanleychelsea.co.uk chris.mercer@mercertax.com
Charming
Chelsea
Taxing questions and regal writers...
CHELSEA PARK GARDENS, SW3 FREEHOLD £12,750,000 This immaculate six bedroom family house is truly unique, extending over more than 4500 sq ft. It has been superbly refurbished to a very high standard by the current owner; it features a truly breathtaking studio room with a 4.5-metre ceiling height, plus there’s a cinema, gym, sauna, wine room and a 65ft southfacing garden. It is quietly situated in the south western corner of Chelsea Park Gardens, which is widely regarded as one of Chelsea’s most sought-after addresses. Combining comfortable family accommodation along with state-of-the-art technology, this house offers the most luxurious style of living. 020 7349 4300; knightfrank.co.uk
Fit for a queen
R
obert Lacey last month drew a crowd to hear about his most recent book A brief life of the Queen and to answer audience questions. Chairing the evening was the ever effervescent Peter York, author of The Sloane Ranger Handbook (amongst others), who could be relied upon to supply yet more entertainment. Champagne and canapés were served upon arrival to a most gentile and interesting crowd. The event was kindly sponsored by John D Wood & Co, with full ticket price and other monies raised going to PARC charitable centre for children with autism and other additional needs. All contributions help to change the lives of both children living with this disability and their parents, for whom the charities offer some respite, as well as outings with the children, all funded by such charity events. johndwood.co.uk 129
FAB FULHAM CHARM CHELSEA.indd 129
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Chesterton Humberts is the proud property sponsor of MINT Polo in the Park hurlingham – 8th to 10th june 2012
Oakley Street Chelsea SW3
A stylishly refurbished Grade II listed period house located just off Chelsea’s famous King’s Road. Offering generous & well proportioned accommodation, this elegant 5 storey house comprises 5 bedrooms, a large reception room with wood flooring, a fitted kitchen, dining room & access to the garden via the conservatory.
£4,500,000 freehold
Chelsea & South Kensington
020 7594 4740
sales.chelsea@chestertonhumberts.com
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Drayton Gardens London SW10
A beautifully refurbished apartment on the ground floor of this period mansion building. The accommodation occupies approx. 1,150 sq ft & comprises 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite) & a landscaped west facing patio garden that is accessed directly from the kitchen & reception room.
£2,150,000 leasehold
Chelsea & South Kensington
020 7594 4740
sales.chelsea@chestertonhumberts.com
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Chesterton Humberts is the proud property sponsor of MINT Polo in the Park hurlingham – 8th to 10th june 2012
St Maur Road Parsons Green SW6
An outstanding 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom family house extending to approx. 2,150 sq ft offering great entertaining space, comprising a double reception room & a stunning extended kitchen/ breakfast room opening on to a large south west facing garden. St Maur Road is a popular residential road running directly off the Fulham Road, located minutes from Parsons Green itself.
ÂŁ1,795,000
freehold
Fulham Road
020 7384 9898
sales.fulhamroad@chestertonhumberts.com
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Broomhouse Road Parsons Green SW6
A spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom family house, in need of some updating, extending to approx. 2,051 sq ft situated on the south west side of this highly desirable road running off the New Kings Road in the Parsons Green area of Fulham.
ÂŁ1,650,000 freehold
New Kings Road
020 7731 4448
sales.newkingsroad@chestertonhumberts.com
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Luxurious Letting We fall for this super chic apartment right in the thick of things on Cadogan Square
WHAT This fantastically airy and spacious apartment has been interior designed with a sympathetic blend of contemporary and classic styles that is in perfect keeping with the property. It also has an impressive west-facing roof terrace which overlooks Clabon Mews. WHERE The apartment is enviably situated on Cadogan Square. Aside from the obvious aesthetic appeal of the surrounding red-brick houses, it is perfectly placed for Harrods, Harvey Nichols and all the myriad delights of Sloane Street
et envrions. There is also a cluster of great prep schools on the doorstep, and the communal garden is an undeniable boon.
WHY With good reception space and excellent storage, this property is perfect both for families and for those who like to entertain whether from the comfort of the chic indoors in the winter, or on the fabulous roof terrace on balmy summer nights. DETAILS ÂŁ2,650 per week, furnished CONTACT Henry & James 020 7581 5011 henryandjames.co.uk
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PROPERTY
Prime Purchase Green space on the doorstep and a garden of its own – what’s not to love?
WHAT A wonderful low-built house quietly positioned behind a substantial purpose-built block and on a private road. The house has off-street parking, the security of 24hour porterage from the block, and winningly, it backs onto the tranquil square gardens of Prince’s Gate from the garden. WHERE Montrose Court is but a short walk from the expansive and beautiful grounds of Hyde Park. Happily, the museums and restaurants of South Kensington as well as the shops
of Knightsbridge and Kensington High Street are also nearby. WHY The house has been well-maintained
throughout and testimony to its appeal is the fact that it has remained under the same ownership for over 20 years. The proximity to the park is reason enough to covet the keys to this property, but the private garden is also charm itself. DETAILS £3,500,000, leasehold, with approximately 43 years unexpired. Application for the freehold is available. CONTACT Douglas & Gordon 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk 135
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London’s Letting Agency www.brlets.co.uk
Chelsea
£380 pw Furnished
Chelsea Borders
From £550 pw Furnished
Studio/Living Space | 1 Bathroom | Refurbished Period Building Lift | 24hr Porterage | Close to Harrods
2/3 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 4 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Porterage | Parking | Balcony
Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112
Imperial Wharf 020 7348 7620
imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk
Knightsbridge
£2,250 pw Unfurnished
knight@brlets.co.uk
Knightsbridge
£1,400 pw Furnished
1 Bedroom | 1 Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment 24hr Porterage | Pool | Gym | Parking
4 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 3 Bathrooms | Townhouse Private Garden | All Amenities Nearby
Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112
Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112
Nine offices open six days a week: Beaufort Park 020 8732 7980 Canary Wharf 020 7517 6088 City 020 7213 9700
knight@brlets.co.uk
Hampstead Highgate Hyde Park
Untitled-7 1 BRL3574 Absolutely Chelsea 2 FP 4 Prop Ads April 12.indd 1
020 7435 9681 020 8341 2335 020 7402 9866
Imperial Wharf Kensington Knightsbridge
020 7348 7620 020 7938 3522 020 7581 2112
knight@brlets.co.uk
Hong Kong Singapore Dubai India
30/03/2012 15:26 28/03/2012 16:30
Your one-stop rental property partner
Free pre-purchase lettings advice Full lettings service Property management Furnishing and window dressings Refurbishment
Everything handled in house all we need is your property
www.brlets.co.uk
London | Hong Kong | Singapore | Dubai | India Association of Residential Letting Agents
Untitled-7 1
Nine offices open six days a week | Call us now on 0800 092 9656 or email info@brlets.co.uk
30/03/2012 15:27
London’s Letting Agency www.brlets.co.uk
Knightsbridge
£620 pw Furnished
Chelsea Borders
From £950 pw Furnished
1 Bedroom | 1 Reception | 1 Bathroom | Mansion Block 24hr Porterage | Lift | Tube Nearby
3/4 Beds | 1 Reception | 4 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Porterage | Parking | Balcony
Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112
Imperial Wharf 020 7348 7620
imperialwharf@brlets.co.uk
Knightsbridge
£1,850 pw Unfurnished
Knightsbridge
knight@brlets.co.uk
£1,300 pw Furn/Unfurnished
3 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 3 Bathrooms | Period Conversion Lift | Tube, Hyde Park & Harrods Nearby
2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Period Conversion Prime Location | All Amenities Close-by
Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112
Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112
Nine offices open six days a week: Beaufort Park 020 8732 7980 Canary Wharf 020 7517 6088 City 020 7213 9700
knight@brlets.co.uk
Hampstead Highgate Hyde Park
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020 7435 9681 020 8341 2335 020 7402 9866
Imperial Wharf Kensington Knightsbridge
020 7348 7620 020 7938 3522 020 7581 2112
knight@brlets.co.uk
Hong Kong Singapore Dubai India
30/03/2012 15:27 28/03/2012 16:30
LANDLORDS We have new tenants constantly knocking on our office doors Demand for rental properties is currently outstripping supply and in some parts of London we are seeing over 10 applicants for every property We urgently need properties to let in all central London locations. We can guarantee you better quality tenants than anyone else
Association of Residential Letting Agents
Nine offices open six days a week: Beaufort Park | Canary Wharf | City | Hampstead | Highgate Hyde Park | Imperial Wharf | Kensington | Knightsbridge
Call us now on 0800 092 9656 or email info@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk
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Absolutely
PRIME On the market in our manor
MONTROSE PLACE BELGRAVIA, SW1 ÂŁ3,950,000
SPECTACULAR ROOF GARDEN A stunning refurbished period house with a spectacular roof garden and conservatory. In addition, there is airconditioning throughout the house. Montrose Place is situated just to the east of Belgrave Square, the gardens of which are available to use via a licence from Grosvenor. To boot, the communal gardens of Montrose Place are also available for al fresco summer delights. ayrtonwylie.com
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PROPERTY SYDNEY STREET, SW3 PRICE ON APPLICATION
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED This beautiful townhouse is positioned close to both the King’s Road and Fulham Road with their vast array of fashionable restaurants and shops. The spectacular interiors, by Winkworth’s awardwinning design team, include a wealth of beautiful features expertly married to contemporary design specifications. The sophisticated contrasting white walls and dark floors make a striking first impression, and natural light envelops you throughout the house; the sense of space is overwhelming. The house is arranged over three floors, each exuding space and light and where form and function work in perfect harmony. winkworth.co.uk
ONSLOW GARDENS, SW7 £2,950,000
ELEGANT APARTMENT WITH HIGH CEILINGS An elegant, beautifully presented and well-proportioned ground and garden floor apartment with a superb, classically high-ceilinged drawing room. The apartment is situated in the preferred part of Onslow Gardens and has direct access from the drawing room to the excellent, and immaculately maintained communal gardens. bodensresidential.com
WEST EATON PLACE, SW1X £3,950,000
INTERIOR DESIGNED THROUGHOUT A large and very well-proportioned Belgravia property that has been interior designed throughout and finished to the highest of standards. The property is located on a corner position and thus enjoys a dual aspect with all the attendant natural light t hat brings. The ground floor is occupied by a substantial reception room that has a feature fireplace, wonderfully high ceilings and original cornicing, a large contemporary kitchen with direct access to the outside terrace and a guest cloakroom. The lower ground houses the two bedroom suites and a well-proportioned utility room. A remarkable property in this prime London address, just a moment’s walk from Sloane Square. marshandparsons.co.uk 141
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020 7352 9556 stanleychelsea.co.uk
CheyneWalk, SW10 ÂŁ2,000,000 Freehold
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Extended by popular demand — Instruct us to sell your property and we will cover the solicitors costs. Call us now for a free market appraisal and details. Offer open until the end of April
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Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk
Cumberland Street SW1
www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London
£695,000 (STC) Share of Freehold
A beautifully finished garden apartment with a Share of the Freehold circa 830SqFt located in the heart of the ever popular ‘Pimlico grid’ SW1. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception Room, Kitchen / Dining Room, Patio Garden
Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk
Guildhouse Street SW1
Fast find: AB47191
£895,000 (STC) Leasehold
An unique and contemporary ground and garden level maisonette located on the Victoria side of Pimlico SW1. 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Ground Floor Reception Room, Kitchen, Patio Garden
Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk
Fast find: AB46777
41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU
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Whitehall Court SW1A
£650 Per Week Furnished
A beautiful and spacious one bedroom flat in a magnificent, Portered mansion building in Whitehall, adjacent to The River. This highly desirable building is situated moments away from Embankment and Charing Cross Stations and The Thames. 1 Double Bed, 1 Reception, 1 Bath, 2nd Floor, Outside Space
Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk
St. Georges Square SW1V
£700 Per Week Furnished/Part Furnished
A lovely bright three bedroom flat on the top two floors of this period building on St. George’s Square. The spacious flat has two double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a third single bedroom or study, large reception room on the top floor with wooden floors. 1 Double Bed, 1 Reception, 1 Bath, 2nd Floor, Outside Space Pimlico Office: 020 7828 4050 pimlico@jackson-stops.co.uk
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Chelsea Office: Sales: 020 7581 5881 | Lettings: 020 7581 8431 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk
Burton Court, Franklins Row SW3
www.jackson-stops.co.uk/London
ÂŁ3,200,000 Share of Freehold
An unmodernized family flat situated on the third floor of this landmark block close to Sloane Square. The flat enjoys far reaching views over the trees and greenery of Burton’s Court from the spacious drawing room, 2 of the bedrooms and the balcony. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Drawing room, Kitchen, Large reception room, Utility Room, 2061 sq ft Chelsea Office: 020 7581 5881 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk
41 offices covering the UK London: office 17c Curzon Street W1J 5HU
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Cadogan Gardens, SW3
ÂŁ4,000 Per Week Furnished/Unfurnished
A truly stunning brand newly renovated three bedroom, three bathroom apartment on the first and second floors of this period building. Located at this highly prestigious address the property is ideally located moments from Sloane Square and the Kings Road.
Chelsea Office: 020 7581 8431 chelsea@jackson-stops.co.uk
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THESE HOUSES ARE NEAR YOU NOW:
DetailstoMobile Simply type in ‘dng’ to 84840 for details of properties near you now.
£2,150,000 Share of Freehold Nevern Square SW5 A spacious and beautifully presented three bedroom garden maisonette on this popular garden square in South Kensington.
Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing room, 2 further bedrooms, En-suite shower room, Open-plan kitchen/reception room, Utility room, Cloakroom, Garden, Access to communal gardens.
South Kensington Sales Office: 020 7581 1152 sthkensales@dng.co.uk
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Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.
North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush
Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster
South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside
East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield
www.douglasandgordon.com
£1,350,000 Leasehold – approximately 35 years unexpired Sloane Court West SW3 A wonderfully light west-facing two bedroom fourth floor flat in a handsome portered mansion block.
2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Cloakroom, Lift, Porter, Access to communal gardens.
Chelsea Sales Office: 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk
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Can I see your licence? Every single D&G office has NAEA licensed member status, does your estate agent? Only this accreditation guarantees you a qualified and trained agent and a route to redress should anything go wrong (which, of course, it won’t).
£1,200,000 Leasehold
A third floor three bedroom balcony flat overlooking the Duke of York Square.
Cheltenham Terrace SW3
3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Reception room, Kitchen, Balcony, Lift, Porter.
£995,000 Leasehold Gloucester Road SW7
A spacious and well-arranged two double bedroom flat with excellent entertaining space.
– approximately 35 years unexpired
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Chelsea Sales: 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk
South Kensington Sales: 020 7581 1152 sthkensales@dng.co.uk
2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room.
27/03/2012 09:58
Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.
North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush
Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster
South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside
East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield
www.douglasandgordon.com
£995,000 Leasehold De Vere Mews SW7
A well-presented flat with two bedrooms in this private and gated mews, close to Hyde Park.
£875,000 Share of Freehold Whitehead’s Grove SW3
A fifth floor one bedroom flat in a secure purpose-built portered block.
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South Kensington Sales: 020 7581 1152 sthkensales@dng.co.uk
2 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen.
Chelsea Sales: 020 7225 1225 chelseasales@dng.co.uk
Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Lift, Porter.
27/03/2012 09:58
OK, we admit it’s not easy to get a job at D&G But why not have a go anyway? If you think you’re up to it let us know by calling 020 7963 4604 or emailing recruitment@dng.co.uk.
£1,500 per week Unfurnished Cadogan Square SW1
A newly refurbished flat, ideally situated in this sought after square.
£640 per week Unfurnished Grenville Place SW7
This stunning property is only a stone’s throw from the underground.
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Chelsea Lettings: 020 7581 6666 chelsealets@dng.co.uk
2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception, Kitchen, Garden, Communal gardens.
South Kensington Lettings: 020 7589 5252 sthkenlets@dng.co.uk
Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen, Caretaker.
27/03/2012 09:58
Text dng to 84840 for details of properties near you now.
North Chelsea Fulham Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush
Kensington South Kensington Notting Hill Pimlico & Westminster
South Balham Battersea Battersea Park Clapham Southside
East Putney West Putney Southfields & Earlsfield
www.douglasandgordon.com
£1,100 per week Unfurnished Courtfield Gardens SW5
An immaculately presented split level flat, benefiting from the use of communal gardens.
£575 per week Furnished Walton Street SW3
A neutrally decorated flat, on the first floor of this popular portered block.
D&G CHELSEA APRIL12_3.indd 6
South Kensington Lettings: 020 7589 5252 sthkenlets@dng.co.uk
2 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite bathrooms, Cloakroom, Reception room, Kitchen.
Chelsea Lettings: 020 7581 6666 chelsealets@dng.co.uk
Reception room, Bedroom, Bathroom, Eat in kitchen, Porter.
27/03/2012 09:58
Alex Dowding Paris to Roubaix Cyclist and Lettings Manager There’s no freewheeling with Alex, completing the Paris – Roubaix Race proves he’ll go through hell to get a result. Our people are what make us great, and Alex is a Lille bit special.
douglasandgordon.com Extraordinary people
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6429
15:17
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F in e j ewel l er y t ot al l y Ă l a mode 30 Old Church Street London SW3 5BY Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 6 pm 020 3055 0166 www.lilly h aste dt.c om
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