WEST
ABSOLUTELY Chiswick Richmond West JULY 2018 / £3.95
ORLA KIELY
ANYONE FOR
TENNIS? Menus for
A life in pattern
J U LY 2018
Wimbledon
Urban JUNGLE A NEW LOOK FOR ROCK & ROSE
The great
ZEST.LONDON
OUTDOORS
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SUMMER LIVING IN THE CITY ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT
03/07/2018 11:37
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trim every
few weeks.
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RAVENSBOURNE ROAD, EAST TWICKENHAM A wonderful five bedroom detached family house located in this sought after road just a short walk from Richmond Bridge. With over 2300 square feet of internal space and a stunning south facing rear garden, the property comes to the market having been much improved and extended by its current owners. The there is a good sized front garden with plant and shrubs and further off street parking. The landscaped rear garden is a must to see with a large patio with Awning; lawn; mature flower beds and borders and a Summerhouse at the back. No chain. EPC = C ASKING PRICE
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CEDAR HEIGHTS, PETERSHAM A stunning newly renovated detached residence with breath-taking, unobscured views of Richmond Park. The house has been cleverly designed with modern family living in mind and to give the maximum amount of lateral space. It has been totally refurbished and extended to over 5000 square. There is underfloor heating and quality flooring throughout also landscaping to the front - along with off street parking- and a 65’ southerly aspect mainly lawned garden. EPC = C
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ABSOLUTELY
Contents J U LY 2 0 1 8
92
34 59
14
C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES
10 things we’re coveting this month
18
AGENDA
Diary dates for June
47 PERFUME
How your scent defines your holiday
FOOD & DRINK 50 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry
24 ORLA KIELY
57 DINING AL FRESCO
FA S H I O N 30 FOCUS
INTERIORS 64 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS
33 JEWELLERY
74
34 THE SHOOT
T R AV E L 92 ISLAND LIFE
The Fashion and Textile Museum's show
Azzedine Alaia at the Design Museum
Rainbow hues
Lazul's fabulous swimwear
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 43 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL This month’s best beauty buys
Where to eat outside
News and views from the world of design
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.
QUIET PATTERN
Abigail Edwards' patterns for minimalists
Luxury in St Lucia
PROPERTY 112 LIVING THE DREAM
The most luxurious London properties
ON THE COVER SS18 MARCH 11 march11.comx
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Offering a wide range of beautifully unique hats and headpieces
EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN EDITORIAL ASSISTANT GEORGIA MCVEIGH EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES MAGAZINE MANAGER ROLLO DENNISON ACCOUNT MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN DESIGNER CATHERINE PERKINS MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@zest-media.com
First Floor, 197 City Road, London EC1V 1JN T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.
Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS
58 Fulham Road, SW3 6HH 020 3488 3579
We b si t e
a b s o l u t e l y. l o n d o n
www.viviensheriff.co.uk
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WIMBLEDON
Editor’s
Even if you're not going to the tennis, we've chosen the best Wimbledon teas around. Our favourite? The Dorchester's Wimbledon Tennis Sponge. page 61
LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S July issue highlights
1
MARIMEKKO
L
ondon is wonderful in July and this month is set to be a particularly lovely one for weather. As we all go in for one last hectic month before the holiday spirit begins to overtake us, our city is full of activities and things to do. In this issue we focus on al fresco dining, visit several exhibitions and round up a host of activities for entertaining children in the summer holidays, which are imminent. In this we seek advice from Maggie Bolger, co-founder of family members' club Maggie and Rose, because she has four children and is therefore clearly a pro. As usual, interiors are important this month and we focus on two possibly conflicting stories. Firstly we look at Marimekko, the Finnish design house that's known for its bold prints, and secondly we look at Abigail Edwards' new book, which is about pattern for people who don't really like pattern (so probably for people who don't like Marimekko). So which side are you on? We hope you enjoy the issue.
PENDLE HARTE EDITOR
Looking back over the years with the Finnish design house that spans fashion, interiors and a wide range of collaborations. page 68
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COLOURED GEMS We are coveting Fendi's Rainbow Bracelet... page 33
3
CAMP WILDERNESS
The summer holidays are almost upon us... time to book some activities for the children. Why not send them on an outdoor adventure? page 87
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ALVAR AALTO The Conran Shop's colourful reworking of Alvar Aalto's classic Armchair 400 is another colourful object of desire. page 64
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely LOVE COMPILED BY
H E L E N B R OW N
14
BEST FOOT FORWARD
Berlin-based footwear pioneers, Aeyde have partnered with leading fashion blogger, Lucy Williams on two new summer styles. Inspired by Lucy’s travels, each evokes her sense of adventure and curiosity. aeyde.com
PICNIC PIECE Whether you’re sipping water after yoga or preparing for a champagne picnic, this Blondewood water bottle from S'well is a sleek and stylish way to reduce your plastic usage. £45; selfridges.com
LOGO LOCO
Crafted using supple smooth leather and fi nished with an all over multi logo print, the Kan I Nappa shoulder bag from Fendi pops against light denims and summer brights. £2,590; flannels.com
TREASURED SCENT
With only a fi nite number of each scent bottled, a Parterre perfume really is something special. We love Root of all Goodness; it’s warm and enveloping with a touch of spicy ginger. 50ml £95; parterreatkeynestonmill.com
A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES
SWING TIME
Create an inviting accent within your space with this bohemian hanging egg chair. For added luxe, we suggest adorning with a sumptuous sheepskin rug. £355; grahamandgreen.co.uk
LUXURY TOUCHES
Playful yet sophisticated. Bold yet discreet. Espie Roche is the latest brand on the lips of the fash-pack for their luxurious, Italian-made accessories. The house’s launch collection comprises four timeless styles in five vibrant hues inspired by the Italian landscape. espieroche.com
EDITOR’S PICK
THE CAT’S MEOW
A cat eye frame and a sports luxe fi nish make these Gucci numbers the sunnies of summer. Wear with nonchalance and you’re worthy of a brand campaign. £320; flannels.com
MAKE A STATEMENT
This chunky wooden bangle makes for eye-catching arm candy and is perfect paired with other bracelets or worn on its own. £18; freepeople.com
MODERN CLASSICS
TASTE OF SUMMER Baileys have taken the summer by storm with the limited edition Baileys Strawberries & Cream; perfect for sunny afternoons spent watching the tennis. £20; sainsburys.co.uk
French shoe designer, Robert Clergerie became famous for his reworking of the classic men's Oxford shoe for women. Here he plays with woven raffia to create the ultimate summer accessory. £356; farfetch.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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ORIGINAL, LIMITED-EDITION ART DECO POSTERS
N EW
Limited to editions of 280, our newly-commissioned Art Deco posters feature glamorous holiday destinations around the world, ski resorts in the Austrian, French and Swiss Alps, and the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Over 100 designs to choose from, all printed on 100% cotton fine art paper, measuring 97 x 65 cms.
Priced at £395 each.
Private commissions are also welcome.
Pullman Editions Ltd 94 Pimlico Road Chelsea London SW1W 8PL www.pullmaneditions.com Tel: +44 (0)20 7730 0547 Email: georgina@pullmaneditions.com
Our central London gallery
All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions Ltd. 2018
View and buy online at w w w.pullmaneditions.com PULLMAN.indd 1
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CULTURE
Finnegans Wake by John Vernon Lord; House of Illustraion - John Vernon Lord: Illustrating Carroll and Joyce, 13 July - 4 November
What’s On 18 • Theatre Review: Chicago 21 • Orla Kiely 24 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The Agenda LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S
EXHIBITION
Sea Creatures:
Life Beneath the Ocean From 27 July ROYAL HORTICULTURAL H ALLS
This interactive exhibition takes you on a deep dive into the anatomy of the ocean’s most iconic marine species. From pregnant sharks to the mighty Minke whale, discover not only what lies beneath the waves, but also beneath fur, skin and scales. Tickets on sale at seacreaturestour. com; enter MAGAZINE20 for an exclusive 20% off all ticket prices.
T H E AT R E
JELLYFISH U NTI L 21 JU LY • BUS H THEATRE
Kelly likes dirty jokes, Neil likes Kelly and Kelly’s mum struggles to accept Neil and Kelly's new relationship. Jellyfish is the story of a first kiss, chips by the beach and coming of age with Down’s Syndrome in a seaside town. It’s a unique romance across uncharted waters which asks: does everyone really have the right to love as they choose? 7 Uxbridge Road, W12; bushtheatre.co.uk
18
T H E AT R E
Utility Until 7 July
ORAN GE TREE TH EAT RE
Emily Schwend’s prize-winning work sees protagonist Amber juggling two part-time jobs and three kids. Her on-off husband Chris is optimistic but rarely employed. As Amber struggles to keep things from boiling over, she is forced to confront reality in this low-key depiction of life in breadline America. 1 Clarence Street, Richmond, TW99; orangetreetheatre.co.uk
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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS
D AY O U T
RHS Hampton Court Flower Show 2-8 July HAMPTON COURT PALACE
The Royal Horticultural Society’s largest flower festival returns to the grounds of Hampton Court Palace with exciting new content for 2018 including exceptional horticulture, a mass planting of Verbena bonariensis and an immersive feature taking visitors on an explorative journey through time. This year, the show will celebrate iconic figures of the gardening world. Molesey, East Molesey, KT8 9AU; rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt
Great Outdoors F E S T I VA L
CORNBURY FESTIVAL 13-15 July THE GREAT NEW PARK
A female-led line-up has been announced for Cornbury Festival this year with Alanis Morissette headlining alongside performances from Mavis Staples, Amy Macdonald, Nina Nesbitt and Pixie Lott. Cornbury is a truly unique festival designed to be familyfriendly and commended as one of the safest festivals in the UK with activities for all ages. Great Tew Park, Oxfordshire, OX7 4AJ; cornburyfestival.com
ALBERT MAKE US LAUGH
T H E AT R E
T H E AT R E
This Month’s Must See
14-21 July • QU E STO R S Meet Albert Nuttall; eleven years old, poet and a visionary. Watch as he grows up and inspires unexpected depths of emotion in those he comes into contact with; his classmates, teachers, social workers and family in this strange, touching and uplifting story. 12 Mattlock Lane, Ealing, W5; questors.org.uk
SPORT
SUMMER BY THE RIVER
HYPER JAPAN 13 - 15 J ULY • OLYMPIA LON DON
H
YPER JAPAN is back this summer bringing the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Japan to the capital. With sake tasting, fashion stalls, karaoke, exhibitors, a food festival and creative workshops to experience, HYPER JAPAN is the ultimate event for those eager to get a taste of this most coveted travel destination. Hammersmith Road, W14;
Ongoing London Bridge With an English country garden theme, Summer by the River transforms London Bridge into a glorious oasis where city-dwellers can catch the Wimbledon tournament, take part in a fitness class and sip Pimm's in the sun. London Bridge, SE1; londonbridgecity.co.uk
F E S T I VA L
BRITISH SUMMER TIME HYDE PARK 6-15 July HY D E PARK
Barclaycard's British Summer Time Hyde Park is the seasonal extravaganza that draws crowds from far and wide for live music, comedy, film, food stalls and more. Highlights from the line-up this year include Eric Clapton, Michael Buble and The Cure. Hyde Park, W2; bst-hydepark.com
olympia.london
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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10 July
11 July
the
with very special guests
GIPSY KINGS
ft. NICOLAS REYES & TONNINO BALIARDO
Saara Aalto
1/2 KTM 12 July
“London’s hottest picnic concerts” Metro
13 July
with support
NERINA PALLOT Luna
10 – 15 July 2018
kewthemusic.org Royal Botanic Gardens Raymond Gubbay
14 July
15 July
B OY Z O N E
Jools Holland & His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
THANK YOU AND GOODNIGHT
THE FAREWELL TOUR
NADINE
A magical outdoor tale for all the family
featuring Gilson Lavis with
special guest Marc Almond and guest vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Rosie Mae.
Life is suddenly turned upside down and everything becomes curiouser and curiouser…
21 July – 27 August 2018
0871 231 0847 (calls cost 13p per minute plus network extras)
theatreonkew.co.uk
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CULTURE • THEATRE
CHICAGO Absolutely enjoys an evening of razzledazzle and cell-block fun as Chicago returns to the Westend B y H E L E N B R OW N
F
orty something years ago, Roxy Hart shimmied onto Broadway and stole our hearts as the wannabe star who can’t seem to catch a break. Following a five-year hiatus from the London stage, Chicago brings the sassy protagonist back, to sell-out audiences at the Phoenix Theatre. The world’s longestrunning American musical, Chicago follows Roxy’s ups and downs as
she competes with fellow cell-mate, Velma Kelly for the role of the media’s darling. The multi-awardwinning musical is based on Maurine Watkins’ play of the same name, about real-life merry murderesses Beulah May Annan and Belva Gaertner. Watkins reported on the pair’s respective arrests for the Chicago Tribune and found them so remarkable - both involved guns, one jazz and the other gin - she spun a script out of them. Oscar-winner Cuba Gooding Jr. charms audiences in the role of
Gooding proves himself able to captivate audiences
ABSOLUTELY reviews…
fast-talking lawyer, Billy Flynn, while stage veterans Sarah Soetaert and Josefina Gabrielle dazzle as Roxie and Velma. Not much has been done to differentiate this production from its predecessors, but that doesn’t matter since the titular roles are carried out with individuality and panache. Gooding’s performance as disgraced sports star, OJ Simpson in the hit series, American Crime Drama, saved him from a run of questionable roles and in his UK stage debut, he yet again proves himself able to captivate audiences. His cheery showmanship and cheeky charm are the performance take-aways. Soetaert’s Roxie is both playful and fierce, while Gabrielle is engaging as the calculated and sneering Velma. The choreography is as smouldering as ever and the bighit tracks just as toe-tapping. . Though Chicago is a well-worn production, its satire on the nature of celebrity fits well with our fameobsessed society. Its comedic rhythm is enjoyable and its energy palpable. Here’s to another few decades of razzle dazzle.
VERDICT
A sassy come-back of an old-time favourite ★★★★★
C H I CAG O UNTIL 6 OCTOBER Partnered with the Waldorf Hilton atgtickets.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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KEIL abstracts at
gallery Ossowski
k e ywo rd search / a rt, co nte mpo rary, scul p t ur e , m e tal , b e aut y, g l as s, l e d l ig h t s, ph ot ogr a ph y, m acro mi cro, quant um p hys ic s, s m al l w o r l d m e e t t he b ig w or ld, pi mli co r oa d, heritag e , mo de rn, t he vo id, g r av it y, l o o k l o s e yo ur c o n s c iou s n e s s of t i me for a time, spi n, part icles ar e f ie l ds, f ie l ds ar e t ho ug ht-f o r m s.
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CULTURE • THEATRE
ROUND UP
Best in
Julie
★★★★★ Lyttelton Theatre
MUST SEE
NATIONAL THEATRE
SHOW
Miss Julie finds a new home in contemporary London when the wild and newly single Julie throws a late night party. In the kitchen, Jean and Kristina clean up as the celebration heaves above. A power game between Jean and Julie descends into a savage fight for survival. Fuelled by social division, Strindberg’s masterpiece remains shocking and fiercely relevant. National Theatre, SE1; nationaltheatre.org
Get the most out of London’s theatre scene with our top stage picks for the month By H E L E N B R W O W N
Alkaline ★★★★★
From 10 July PARK THEATRE
Sophie and Sarah have been best friends forever. Sophie is newly engaged to her fiancé Nick and wants to celebrate. Sarah also has a new fiancé, Ali, and some more big news – she has recently converted to Islam. Alkaline is a play about faith, friendship and fear, but at its heart is a story about female friendship that shines a light on painful endings and new beginnings. Clifton Terrace, N4; parktheatre.co.uk
ALKALINE JULIE
Translations
As You Like IT
Olivier Theatre
6-28 July
ONGOING
REGENT ’S PARK OPEN-AIR THEATRE
Prodigal son Owen returns to rural Donegal from Dublin with two British army officers and plans to create a map of the area, replacing the Gaelic names with English. It is an administrative act with radical consequences. Brian Friel’s modern classic is a powerful account of nationhood, playing out the turbulent relationship between England and Ireland. National Theatre, SE1; nationaltheatre.org
In the mythical Forest of Arden, two young people discover what it really means to be in love. Directed by Max Webster, with beautiful new music by Charlie Fink (former frontman of Noah and the Whale), this warm, open-hearted production promises adventure, sibling rivalry, mistaken identity and romance – Shakespeare comedy as you like it. Inner Circle, Regent’s Park, NW1; openairtheatre.com
★★★★★
★★★★★
A Monster Calls ★★★★★
From 7 July THE OLD VIC
A Monster Calls tells the tale of a teenage boy, Conor, coming to terms with his mother’s cancer. The bestselling novel by Patrick Ness has developed worldwide momentum with its dazzling insight into love, loss and healing. Director Sally Cookson combines gritty realism and magic in this dazzling new adaptation The Cut, SE1; oldvictheatre.com
AS YOU LIKE IT
A MONSTER CALLS
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The Fashion and Textile Museum’s Orla Kiely: A Life In Pattern is the first exhibition dedicated to the celebrated designer. Drawing on an archive of over 20 years of work, the exhibition ‘brings it all together under one roof in a celebration of design, print and colour that has become the Orla Kiely brand’. The exhibition will follow Orla’s work through the framework of her greatest tool – pattern. Orla’s patterns can work on any scale, allowing the exhibition to focus on distortions of size, creating an extraordinary Alice in Wonderland feel. Dresses, for example, will be reimagined to tremendous sizes and displayed alongside tiny dolls in replica outfits. With unique access to the brand’s archives, the exhibition offers a privileged insight into Kiely’s world. Her inspiration is made evident throughout the exhibition with each design drawing on the essential organic elements that are the foundations of her repeating patterns
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CULTURE • EXHIBITION
DRAWING
ROOMS Absolutely admires Orla Kiely’s work at the Fashion and Textile Museum Wo r d s PENDLE HARTE
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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1 to amble along stunning riverside
330 shops to mosey around watering holes to 15 quench a thirst 95
places to
grab a bite
12
tumbling telephone
boxes to take a selfie at
152 23 traders to banter with
C
unique independent stores to tempt you Ancient Market Place
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
MY
K
hundreds of places
to lose yourself
Visit inkingston.co.uk to find out more KF.indd 1
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CULTURE • EXHIBITION
ORLA KIELY UNTIL
23 SEPTEMBER ftmlondon.org
Kiely’s fashion will be showcased on the mezzanine gallery, with over 30 full outfits displayed on mannequins and complemented by a whole wall dedicated to Orla’s iconic handbags. Orla presented her first ready-towear collection in 2003 using simple silhouettes that allowed her prints to stand out and have since been worn by household names such as Emma Thompson, Scarlett Johansson and the Duchess of Cambridge. With a global audience in thrall to the instantly recognisable and stylised graphic patterns of Kiely’s work, the exhibition has become a must-see for those willing to explore the power of decoration and the changing look of the 21st century environment.
– the abstract natural world. Her paired down plant shapes and animal designs reveal a simplicity that captures only the essential aspects of the form. Patterns of the 1950s and 1960s by designers such as Shirley Craven and Lucienne Day are another inspiration for Kiely’s work. With her use of natural motifs, colouration and big bold outlines, the designer’s work can also be seen within a historical trajectory of artists like William Morris, Voysey and Marimeko. As well as charting the growth and success of the Orla Kiely brand, the exhibition explores Orla’s childhood in Ireland and how this environment influenced her work. Her love of colour, from the greens and greys of vast skies to the browns and mustard yellow of the rolling hills and gorse, all pay homage to the colours of the Irish countryside. Rare family photographs and ephemera will be displayed alongside Orla’s earliest designs. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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FASHION
SUMMER LOVING BIMBA Y LOLA Bimba Y Lola have whipped up a SS18 wardrobe for the Woodstock festivalgoer of 1969 for their Summer of Love collection. Expect pastels, prints, faded denim and long, freeflowing silhouettes. bimbaylola.com
Fashion focus: Azzedine Alaïa 30 · The shoot: stylish swimwear 34 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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AZZEDINE ALAIA: THE COUTURIER
02
Continues until 7 October at The Design Museum, 224-238 Kensington High Street W8; designmuseum.org
Man in
BLACK Celebrating Azzedine Alaïa at The Design Museum
Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E
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FASHION • FOCUS 04
01 Linda Evangelista and Azzedine Alaia, 1990 Courtesy of Sante D'Orazio 02 Naomi Campbell wearing Azzedine Alaia Tati Collection Spring Summer 1991 courtesy Ellen von Unwerth
T
03 Models after the Azzedine Alaia Fashion Show, Paris, 1986 Courtesy of Arthur Elgort
he Tunisian-born couturier Azzedine Alaïa enjoyed his role as an outsider in the world of fashion. Always dressed in a uniform of black, he ignored the collection calendar while tirelessly upholding the traditions of haute couture. From his first show in the late 1970s to his final one just before his death in 2017, Alaïa’s work has generated excitement and respect. Sensuous, body-hugging forms, described as ‘second-skin dressing’, are Alaïa’s enduring influence. Experimenting with the latest stretch materials and precisely tailored leathers, he worked in the tradition of the great couturiers he admired and studied, Madeleine Vionnet, Cristóbal Balenciaga and Charles James. Alaïa thought with his hands. He gave his ideas form by draping, cutting and pinning fabric directly on to the statuesque models with whom he loved to work. He combined his rigorous technical skills with an understanding of how women want to feel. He once remarked, ‘I make clothes, women make fashion’. And many women have made fashion in his elegant and sensual creations, from Greta Garbo, Grace Jones, Lady Gaga, and Tina Turner to Scarlett Johansson, Naomi Campbell and Rihanna. Reflecting a consistency of approach and the timelessness of his creations, Alaïa’s most significant works are grouped here to reveal ideas he perfected and remastered over many years. This includes Alaïa’s use of black, his favourite and most widely used colour. Restricting the colour palette left Alaïa nowhere to hide and enabled him to develop the purist expression of his ideals of form. As Alaïa’s explorations in shape and volume deepened, he remained focused solely on the demands of perfecting his vision, not on market demands. This exhibition and installation, conceived with Alaïa, includes architectural elements by artists who Alaïa admired and befriended, as well as photographs of Maison Alaïa by the artist Richard Wentworth, who documented the fashion house over the past few years.
04 Yasmin Le Bon in Alaia for The New York Times Magazine, "Paris Panache" editorial by Peter Lindbergh, Paris, 1985 © Peter Lindbergh (Courtesy Peter Lindbergh, Paris) 05 Naomi Campbell wearing Azzedine Alaia Tati Collection Spring Summer 1991 courtesy Ellen von Unwerth
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05
“Restricting the colour palette left Alaïa nowhere to hide and enabled him to develop the purist expression of his ideals” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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FASHION • JEWELLERY
Colour Pop Wear the rainbow: Absolutely’s favourite multi-coloured jewellery
Marco Bicego
Ana Khouri
Vivid Diamonds by Ernest Jones
Paradise Gemstone Earrings, £2,770; harrods.com
Multi-coloured Mirian diamond & sapphire ear cuff, £2,665; net-a-porter.com
9ct Gold Diamond And multi coloured stones ring, £350; ernestjones.co.uk
Ileana Makri
Swarovski
Selim Mousazzar
Sun diamond & sapphire earrings, £3,610; net-a-porter.com
Multi-coloured, Rhodium Plating, £299; swarovski.com
Diamond, multi-stone & pink-gold Mina earrings, £9,820; matchesfashion.com
Rosantica
Ileana Makri
Fendi
Tassel Long Earrings, £195; harrods.com
Thread 18-karat rose gold multi-stone ring, £905; net-a-porter.com
Rainbow Bracelet, £400; farfetch.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Sink or
SWIM Design-led swimwear with a focus on ďŹ t and interesting details is at the heart of Nina Decker’s brand Lazul lazul-london.com
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IF YOU DON’T LOOK GOOD | WE DON’T LOOK GOOD
FOR YOUR NEAREST SALON VISIT WWW.SASSOON-SALON.COM
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WINNER
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
SKIN SAVIOUR SHISEIDO Making water your ally, Shiseido have launched their Sun Care 2018 collection. Products made with an iconic mineral sensor bond water ions together to create a protective layer around the skin (£23-£34). feelunique.com
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Beauty Notes 43 • Beauty Products – SPFs 45 • Perfume – holiday scents 47 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Consultations and treatment take place in the superb new HCA facility which has been refurbished to bring a wide variety of medical specialties to West London.
H A R L EY S T R E E T C O M E S T O C H I S W I C K After twenty-five years in Harley Street and now in Crescent Place in South Kensington, The Aesthetic Surgeons are now offering consultations and non-surgical treatments at the new HCA facility at Bond House in Chiswick High Road. Norman Waterhouse is the founding surgeon of The Aesthetic Surgeons and has twenty-five years of experience in aesthetic and cosmetic surgery.
The Aesthetic Surgeons carry out a full range of procedures including FACELIFT RHINOPLASTY AESTHETIC BREAST SURGERY
BREAST AUGMENTATION BREAST REDUCTION MASTOPEXY/BREAST LIFT
ABDOMINOPLASTY LIPOSUCTION LABIAPLASTY
and many others In addition anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler treatment is provided as well as removal of a wide variety of skin lesions.
For consultations and information please contact Karen Burns at info@theaestheticsurgeons.com 020 7636 4073 OR enquiries.chiswick@hcahealthcare.co.uk
www.theaestheticsurgeons.com
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BEAUTY
HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES
S A LO N REVIEW
NOTES
A reality beauty filter, summer skin saviour and new launches B y C H A R LOT T E E M E R S O N
EDITOR’S PICK
BLURRED LINES C H A R LOT T E T I L B U RY
Get camera-ready in an instance with the limited edition Beauty Filters range from make-up artist to the stars, Charlotte Tilbury. With everything from cream blushes to a collogen lip bath, the collection promises brighter eyes, plumper lips and longer lashes. From £29 charlottetilbury.com
SUMMER RESCUE LUMITY
The warmer months can often leave your skin dry and dehydrated. Lumity Complete Nourishment Facial Oil replenishes and soothes your face using passionflower seed oil, green tea leaf extracts and many other natural ingredients. £48. lumitylife.co.uk
DIGITAL DEFENCE BAREMINERALS
In an age of digital blue lights and florescent lighting, bareminerals launches skin saviour Complexion Rescue Defense Radiant Tint Protective Moisturiser. With natural cacao extract and camellia flower, this daily super shield will protect your skin from everyday damage and aging. £35. bareminerals.co.uk
Voltas Spa and Beuty By Charlotte Emerson
T
he recently opened Volta’s Spa and Beauty Salon provides a wide range of treatments. The interiors and atmosphere are inspired by the tropics of Bali: think natural wooden touches, palm green walls in the massage room and calming Caribbean music. I have arrived for the express facial and manicure- perfect for someone seeking a quick fix with a busy schedule. The facial massage is soothing and therapeutic; the masseuse only uses natural Elemis products throughout and the experience is tailored to aid my specific skin requirements. Afterwards, she explains the at-home treatments and methods that would suit me best. The manicure is finished to the highest standard – and I can’t resist saying no to the offered drinks and chocolate throughout. Kritika and her team make me feel so welcome and comfortable and I leave feeling nothing less than pampered and refreshed. VO LTA S S PA A N D B E AU T Y 41 Crown Road, Twickenham, TW1 3EJ
voltaspa.mytreatwell.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY LOV E S
NAILSINC Fun and bright shades are being celebrated at NailsInc with their latest SS18 colour range, all bright and shimmery. £11-15. nailsinc.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Photographer: Giovanni Di Palma; instagram.com/gioph92
HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND SHISEIDO Expert Sun Ageing Protection Lotion SPF 50+, £32; houseoffraser.co.uk
EDITOR’S PICK
TOM FORD Face Protect SPF 50, 30ml, £58.00; johnlewis.com
BOBBI BROWN SPF50 Primer Plus Protection, £24; bobbibrown.co.uk
EAU THERMALE AVENE Cleanance Sunscreen SPF 50+, £16; boots.com
ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30, £82; elemis.com
YSL BEAUTY Forever Youth Liberator SPF 15 Crème 50ml, £69; yslbeauty.co.uk
VICHY Ideal Soleil Matifying face dry touch SPF50, £16.50; vichy.co.uk
SUN SAVIOURS
GIORGIO ARMANI Maestro UV Makeup Primer, £42; armanibeauty.co.uk
Protect your skin this summer with these luxurious products B y L AU RA S E L L
CHARLOTTE TILBURY Charlotte's Magic Cream, £70; charlottetilbury.com
YSL BEAUTY Forever youth liberator SPF 15 Serum, £68; yslbeauty.co.uk
CHANEL SKIN CEUTICALS Mineral Eye UV Defense SPF 50, £30; skinceuticals.co.uk
UV Essentiel Daily Defender SPF 30 or 50, £55; chanel.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SCENT
PERFUME
Olfactory
POSTCARDS How to choose your holiday perfume B y M I C H A E L D O N OVA N
C
hoosing a holiday fragrance is one of the greatest olfactory joys imaginable. A marriage of perfume and destination will be fixed in the mind forever, creating a scent-memory that can be relived again and again. When selecting your travel companion, the destination should be foremost in the mind. Is your vacation to be filled with sun, sea and sand or is it an urban adventure? Perhaps it is an agrarian idyll of rolling countryside or dramatic jungles. Just as you would never wear a ballgown to go whitewater rafting or short shorts in Thai temples, there is an etiquette to sensible scenting that will enhance the travel experience. Vacation scents should be jubilant, they should lift the spirits, excite and energise, soothe and take us on a journey.
“A MARRIAGE OF PERFUME AND DESTINATION” For scents in the city there are fragrances that are designed to conjure a specific metropolis. The Gallivant collection is dedicated to travel, with six fragrances to choose from. The deliciously spicy Istanbul with cardamom, red thyme and sweet myrrh recalls the famous Egyptian Market, while sparkling Brooklyn uses bergamot, orange and fizzing lemons to recreate the buzz of this artisanal hub. If Milan is on your itinerary, 10 Corso Como is a fragrance created for the world's first concept store and every bit as
stylish and stimulating, with Italian geraniums, roses and oud. If you are heading to the beach, sunshine scents are the perfect choice. Costarela by Carner Barcelona evokes the beauty and glamour of the Costa Brava in an olfactory evening stroll along the shore. Agrumi from Farmacia SS Annunziata celebrates the Amalfi Coast with its sun-soaked lemons, orange blossom and grapefruit plus its well-heeled elegance. From magical Capri comes Fiori di Capri from Carthusia, its gardenia and tuberose gently flirting with wild strawberries and honey. Mariners will appreciate the oceanic squall of Heeley's Sel Marin, an aquatic green scent of sea salt, algae and moss beneath the bright rays of Italian bergamot and lemon. This is the scent for sailing, cruises or simply bobbing about on the water. Myriad pastoral perfumes that enhance the experience of nature include Apsu from Ulrich Lang, which realises an arcadian bower of green leaves after a summer rainstorm while The Soft Lawn from Imaginary Authors with its linden blossom, laurel and ivy imagines the perfect picnic in an English meadow. Quince, Mint & Moss from Union uses only British ingredients with Somerset quince providing a delicate heart-note underscored with a refreshing hint of garden mint.Cowboy Grass from D.S. & Durga is a landscape fragrance that distils the American prairie with its dry, dusty plains, sagebrush, wild thyme and prairie grass. From the white sands and azure waters of the West Indies to the baked, desert scrubland of Yosemite, with a little research there awaits the perfect perfume to capture the mood. Just close your eyes and inhale. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Located at One Tower Bridge. Prosecco House is London’s fist prosecco-specialist bar. It stocks Prosecco DOCG, from Veneto, the home of the drink, a creation of owner Kristina Issa, bringing the excellence of Italian prosecco to London. Kristina works with small family-owned vineyards, while the bar has over 20 varieties on the menu, hand picked by Kristina herself, from wineries such as Marchiori, Rivalta, Cirotto, Tasi Bio and Andreola.
PROSECCO HOUSE 1 Crown Square One Tower Bridge London, SE1 2SE @proseccohouse ProseccoHouseLondon
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FOOD & DRINK
COCKTAIL KINGS
ROCK & ROSE
The unveiling of a slick new cocktail bar put the finishing touch to a 10-year renovation at Rock & Rose. Catch them at Cocktails in the City this Summer where they'll be showing off a fresh new menu. rockandroserestaurant.com
Food Notes 50 • A Fresh Look For Rock & Rose 52 • Eating Out 59 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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WHAT TO DRINK
GRAPE news
TASTING NOTES
London’s food news and most exciting openings this July By GEORGIA MCVEIGH
Wine recommendations for the month By BERRY BROS. & RUDD
2017 Berry Bros. & Rudd Provence Rosé by Chateaux La Mascaronne £13.95 Specially blended for Berry Bros. & Rudd by Château la Mascaronne, based in Côtes de Provence, this rosé combines red berry fruits with refreshing herbal notes of lemon verbena and hints of spice.
2017 Gavi di Gavi, Bric Sassi, Roberto Sarotto, Piedmont £12.95 Versatile, enjoyable and easy-to-drink, this refreshing white wine will take you through picnics or parties with ease. With floral and citrusy aromas and steely, lemon zesty flavours, it's an ideal accompaniment to pasta dishes or fish.
2016 Chiroubles, La Scandaleuse, Domaine Bernard Metrat, Beaujolais £15.25 With its aromas and flavours of cherries, violets and white pepper - this light red wine is perfect for the summer months. Enjoy it slightly chilled.
BERRY BROS. & RUDD Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's.
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City fresh D E VO N S H I R E T E R R AC E
Breathing fresh air into stale city life, Devonshire Terrace is the perfect place for business breakfasts, boozy brunches or late-night cocktails. Try their decadent sharing boards sitting in the glorious year-round covered glass terrace or sip on a cocktail under the stars. Devonshire Terrace, EC2M drakeandmorgan.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s
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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Our pick of the best
AFTERNOON TEAS
ALICE'S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND The Taj Hotel lays it on thick with this Alice in Wonderland themed afternoon tea. Take a trip down the rabbit hole with the eclectic menu that features 'Queen of Hearts' mango tarts, 'Drink Me' strawberry potion and other themed delights. 51 Buckingham Gate, SW1; taj51buckinghamgate.co.uk
TALE AS OLD AS TIME
BRUNCH TIME B RY N W I L L I A M S AT S O M E R S E T H O U S E
Located in the heart of the iconic Somerset House, Bryn Williams has announced the launch of a whole new weekend brunch menu guaranteed to blow the cobwebs away. With poached eggs on muffins, and a smoked rosemary hollandaise or veg-centric starters and mains that include Williams' signature roast cauliflower, carrots, golden raisins and salted grapes, there's something for everyone; Somerset House, WC2R bryn-somersethouse.co.uk
The popularity of this Beauty and the Beast afternoon tea is clear from the fact it's been sold out since its inception. If you're lucky enough to get a booking, indulge in the chocolate clock tart or "try the grey stuff" mousse, served in Mrs Potts and Chip Potts dishware. The Town House, Kensington, SW7; townhousekensington.com
GIN O’CLOCK CRAFT GIN CLUB
The perfect gift for any gin lovers out there, Craft Gin Club compiles full sized bottles of only the most niche gins, indulgent nibbles, unusual mixers and a gin centric magazine - delivered straight to your door each month. Spice up the 5 o'clock drinks hour with this hedonistic treat. craftginclub.co.uk
AQUA SHARD
If eating up the Shard wasn't glamorous enough, then add a further touch of luxury with their afternoon tea. Lobster sandwiches, black pudding sausage rolls and peanut butter parfait are just some of what you can expect to eat whilst gazing across London. Level 31 The Shard, SE1; aquashard.co.uk
SWEET DELIGHTS PIERRE MARCOLINI TALE AS OLD AS TIME
SUSHI FUEL SUSHI SHOP
Not even food has escaped World Cup fever, and Sushi Shop has outdone itself with a decadent box dedicated to the sporting event. The Moscow Box is a limited edition box of colour coordinated sushi delivered right to your door, so you don't have to leave the sofa for your favourite snack. Various locations; mysushishop.co.uk
ALICE IN WONDERLAND
There’s nothing better than a truly decadent box of chocolates, and Pierre Marcolini has stepped up to the mark – with a twist. Enveloped in a thin layer of chocolate, this red fruit désir contains a biscuit miserable, vanilla mousse and a red fruits insert. eu.marcolini.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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SUMMER
STYLE
Rock & Rose Richmond pays tribute to Kew Gardens with a new botanical look By GEORGIA MCVEIGH
D
rawing inspiration from their neighbour Kew Gardens, Rock & Rose in Richmond has unveiled a whole new look with the completetion of their recent makeover – and the time and effort put in to the interior overhaul is obvious down to the smallest detail. Using designers such as Eichholtz, Versmissen, Designers Guild and Graham & Green, the combination of deep botanical greens, maroon purples and copper highlights has transformed it into an urban jungle in its own right (without the constant worry of watering). The project was officially declared complete with the unveiling of a cocktail bar, a cool and sleek space as perfect for casual early evening cocktails as for more glamorous and raucous occasions later into the night. The interiors aren’t the only thing changing in the Richmond location. Acclaimed chef Dan Needes has joined the team from Michelin-
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FOOD & DRINK • PROMOTION
Rock & Rose has been transformed into an urban jungle...
ROCK SUMMER A fresh and fruity cocktail for summer METHOD
• Halve fresh figs and muddle
with a couple of mint leaves
• Zest/twist 3-4 pieces of orange peel • Add 37.5ml blood orange infused vodka • Add 12.5ml Cointreau • Finish with 15ml freshly squeezed lime juice • Shake, shake, shake with lots of ice • We’ve chosen a goblet but by all means
use a large wine glass to serve
• Garnish with mint, half a caramelised fig
and crystallised lavender pearls ROCK & ROSE
106 – 108 Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 2PQ rockandroserestaurant.co.uk
starred restaurant Chez Bruce, alongside chef Peter Hall from critically acclaimed restaurant Lorne, and together they have created a menu that is guaranteed to tantalise even the fussiest of tastebuds. It celebrates cuisines from all over the world, from a decadent lobster arancini to a monkfish and tiger prawn curry or your choice from the loaded grill. The renovation seems to have spurred Rock & Rose on to further fame, and they will be featured in the Cocktails in the City summer event, having been hugely successful in the spring event earlier this year. Head Barman Adam will be creating a bespoke cocktail menu that will feature old favourites such as the trusty Mojito alongside more adventurous botanical tipples like their rosemary smoked Manhatten. If the quality of the interiors and food is anything to go by, it stands a good chance when competing against a selection of some of the best and most esteemed bars in London. This is definitely not one to miss.
The menu celebrates cuisines from all over the world A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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ROCK & ROSE
Cocktail Hour Mon - Fri 5 - 7pm
s l i a t k c o C r e m m Su ! k c o R t a
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INTERIORS CULTURE ••DINING XXXXX
Dining
AL FRESCO Barbecues and more
FIRST SERVE
L S A I nt e r n a t i n o a l The Serve collection by LSA lends itself to outdoor feasting – display colourful salads and dips in these versatile glass pieces. lsa-international.com
By PENDLE HARTE
R O S E B LU S H Mirabeau en Provence Pink wine is a summer staple and Mirabeau en Provence is a delicious and award-winning rosé brand founded by British producers Stephen and Jeany Cronk. It's available at Waitrose. mirabeauwine.com
FIRE WOOD
B OX F R E S H
Field & Flower Luxury free-range, grassfed meat supplier Field & Flower specialises in delivering locally sourced meat and fish direct to doors across the UK. Try the barbecue box which includes everything you need for an outdoor feast.. fieldandflower.co.uk
H E AT B OX
Stadler Made Stadler Made’s outdoor oven takes outdoor cooking beyond the barbecue. Use it to bake a loaf of bread, or slow-cook some delicious fish or veggies, or stoke up the fire and have your own pizza oven to make fresh pizza in five minutes. Delivered flat pack, it can be easily assembled without tools, meaning you can make wood-fired food in no time; £645. scp.co.uk
Everdure by H e s to n B l u m e nt h a l Heston Blumenthal's portable cube barbecue is easy to store, set up and clean, making it the perfect piece of kit for a balcony or even for a picnic. It even has a stylish carry case to match. £149 johnlewis.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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• XXXXX FOOD &CULTURE DRINK • SUMMER
Dining AL FRESCO Our pick of outdoor terraces in London By HELEN BROWN
GR A NA RY SQUA R E BR A SSER IE
Granary Square Brasserie has partnered with Fever Tree to transform its terrace into a Physic Garden. Learn how to blend your own botanical gin concoctions at the House of Apothecary before enjoying a delicious three-course dinner. granarysquarebrasserie.com
OXO TOW ER
Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie Oxo has teamed up with 1800 Tequila to launch the 1800 Terrace. Set to be a haven of al fresco dining this summer, guests can sip on exclusive 1800 cocktails and dine on a bespoke Mexican brunch menu. oxotowerrestaurant.com
THE RIB ROOM
Jumeirah Carlton Tower has partnered with Champagne Laurent-Perrier to bring Londoners a taste of summer on The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant’s terrace. Here, guests will be able to indulge in a glass of fizz while looking out on the picturesque Cadogan Place Gardens. jumeirah.com
THE GARDENING SOCIET Y
CHIC A M A
Inspired by the capital’s love of music and sound, The Gardening Society at John Lewis Oxford Street presents Summer of Sound On The Roof. Expect live gigs, DJ sets, acoustic music and a breath-taking panoramic backdrop of the city’s skyline with food from fried chicken specialists, Butchies and drinks courtesy of Fever Tree. johnlewis.com
This summer sees Chicama launch its glorious summer terrace where guests can enjoy a Peruvian-inspired feast alongside a Pisco Sour. Kick things off with a tantalising snack selection of tapioca marshmallows, miso aubergine and popcorn monkfish cheeks. chicamalondon.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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w w w. b e l l a i n t e r i o r s . c o . u k
Bella Interiors HOME INTERIOR DESIGN
ALL ASPECTS OF HOME REFURBISHMENT BATHROOM, BEDROOM & KITCHEN
FREE MIELE DISHWASHER WITH EVERY FULLY FITTED KITCHEN (T&C’S APPLY)
TEL
02083329898
EMAIL SALES@BELLAINTERIORS.CO.UK
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137 KEW ROAD RICHMOND SURREY TW9 2PN
25/06/2018 16:16
FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW
ABSOLUTELY eats out…
“Customers come in as strangers and leave as part of the Mamma Mia family”
FAMILY LEGACY Mamma Mia has a family atmosphere and great food
N
FOOD Consistently good, authentic Italian food
B y PAO L A P E R A LTA
estled between local coffee shops and small boutiques for just over 40 years, Mamma Mia continues to be one of the most colourful, authentic Italian eateries in London. We’re greeted warmly as we arrive and immediately offered a glass of prosecco as we look over the menu. Art and framed photographs cover the walls and soft Italian music plays in the background, erasing any trace of the city and transporting us to the Mediterranean countryside. To start, we opt for the grilled
vegetables and frisella topped with tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella and balsamic vinegar. The vegetables are delicious in their simplicity and the tartness of the tomatoes and the balsamic vinegar meld beautifully with the doughy cheesiness of the frisella. Upon recommendation, we also add that night’s specials – expertly seared portobello mushrooms and crisp asparagus. The main courses come in the form of homemade spinach and cream tortellini with a tangy wild mushroom sauce that serves as a lovely compliment to the savoury filling, and penne pasta with tomato sauce and bacon, brimming with
DECOR A cosy, traditional interior with a family feel
PRICE Starters from £4.90 Mains from £8.50
VERDICT Consistently good food at a reasonable price
flavour. We add a small portion of fettuccine with smoked salmon and asparagus, tied together perfectly with a smooth, creamy sauce. Mamma Mia has an impressive wine selection, from which I chose a sweet moscato and my companion a suave almond-based red, to complement our meals. For dessert, the owner recommended the signature cheesecake with an Italian twist – the twist being a pastry crust with wine soaked raisins and a creamy filling. My companion takes a more traditional route with a refreshing lemon sorbet gelato, garnished with fresh strawberries. To conclude our meal, a shot of Limoncello – meant to be sipped, not downed. From the gracious atmosphere to the attentive staff and the inimitable food, Mamma Mia redefines the meaning of a family business – customers come in as strangers and leave feeling like part of Leo and Rosa’s extended family. If there’s one thing that Mamma Mia does better than food, it’s hospitality. MAMMA MIA 459 Upper Richmond Road West, SW14 7PR mammamiarestaurant.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Design a space that’s yours A professional, easy-to-use and totally bespoke, online interior design service Choose a package: £95 / £195 / £250 per room Find out more at mybespokeroom.com
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• OCCASION • XXXXX FOOD & DRINK CULTURE
Sweet
SERVES Tennis-themed Afternoon Teas for Wimbledon By HELEN BROWN
THE IVY CAFÉ, WIMBLEDON Available now until 20 July
The Ivy Café, Wimbledon has created a series of delights for guests to enjoy while the sporting action kicks off around the corner. Along with the Centre Court Melting Bomb, two exclusive strawberries and cream cocktails will be available to help celebrate the tennis wins. theivycafewimbledon.com
THE DORCHESTER Available between 2-15 July
The Dorchester is serving its annual Wimbledon Afternoon Tea for the duration of the tournament. It includes the Wimbledon Tennis Sponge - made with Lemon verbena, strawberry and white chocolate – accompanied by champagne, strawberries and cream, finger sandwiches and scones. dorchestercollection.com
SQUIRE’S Available between 1-15 July
Visitors to Squire’s Garden Centre can enjoy a Wimbledon-inspired cream tea featuring Eton Mess, a scone with jam and clotted cream and a pot of lose leaf tea. A gluten free option is also available. No booking is required, simply turn up at any Squire’s centre and enjoy. squiresgardencentres.co.uk
PAUL THE PETERSHAM RESTAURANT Available between 2-15 July
The Petersham Restaurant, at The Petersham Hotel is running its quintessential Afternoon Tea with a tennis twist. The big serves for the season are a Pimm’s jelly with cucumber foam, mini mango tennis ball cheesecakes and white chocolate and strawberry tartlets. petershamhotel.co.uk
Available 2-15 July
Get a taste of this year’s tournament with limited edition treats from French artisan bakery and pâtisserie, PAUL. New for 2018 and keeping things refreshingly cool as the heat rises on Centre Court is the Strawberry & Cream Frappé, while past-favourites, the Tennis Choux and the Grand Slam Lemon Tart, make eagerlyawaited returns. paul-uk.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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INTERIORS IN ASSOCIATION WITH
SAFE & SOUND HUGO CARTER’S SILENT WINDOWS Hugo Carter’s unique range of noisereduction windows transform lives and restore tranquillity. Run by engineers, Silent Windows ® reduce unwanted noise and create urban heaven. silentwindows.co.uk
Interior inspirations 64 • The story of Marimekko 68 • Quiet pattern 74 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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INTERIORS NOTES
Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE
STATEMENT PIECE ARTEK
Armchair 400 was created by Alvar Aalto in 1936 for an exhibition at the Milan Triennale, where it was promptly awarded a prize. The chair owes its nickname “Tank” to its distinctive wide and sturdy armrests. It is launching imminentnly in this limited edition print at The Conran Shop. conranshop.co.uk
ART OF GLASS RICHARD BRENDON
Richard Brendon has partnered with Gleneagles to develop the hand-crafted crystal collection, Fluted, which draws inspiration from the decadent cocktail culture of the 1920s, and fits perfectly in the American Bar at Gleneagles richardbrendon.com
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INTERIORS • NOTES
O N TH E T I LES Our favourite tiles for walls and floors
ORIGINAL STYLE Artworks wall tiles, £POA originalstyle.com
LUXURY AT HOME ARTEL
CREATIVE TOPS Maxwell Williams Medina Ceramic tiles, £POA creative-tops.com
CARRY ON
ORIGINAL STYLE Odyssey Mezzo mix, £POA originalstyle.com
VITRA
With his design for Rotary Tray, Jasper Morrison has given the classic tiered etagere a new contemporary look. Thanks to its understated shape and colouring, Rotary Tray naturally complements all types of interior styles and can be used for a variety of different functions. From £40. vitra.com
New luxury e-partment store Niquesa offers UK-based consumers unprecedented access to some of the world’s most desirable products. The best in home accessories includes Artel glass (pictured) as well as cashmere by Agnona and knives by Savernake. The expanding range is designed to include absolutely the word's finest things. niquesa.com
EDITOR’S PICK
ORIGINAL STYLE Odyssey Mezzo Nocturne, £POA originalstyle.com
MARRAKECH DESIGN Dandelion tile in pigeon blue and pure white, £POA marrakechdesign.se
OFF THE WALL THE BAKED TILE COMPANY Fes multicoloured wall tile, £35 per m2 bakedtiles.co.uk
FLOCK STUDIO
The beautiful Sticks wallpaper is based on a simple French shirt fabric design from the late 1880s, reminiscent of sewing pins of botanical illustrations. It's digitally printed in Lancashire; £130 per roll. flock.orguk
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Photography by Paul Craig
Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered
Beautiful flooring, designed to last Over 100 designs | Expert advice | 20,000m 2 of stock | Express delivery SHOWROOM 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG 020 8871 9771
w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk
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INTERIORS • PRODUCTS WALLS AND FLOORS Jumble geometro tiles wallsandfloors.co.uk
UMBRA Zina magazine rack, £40 black-by-design.co.uk
FERM LIVING Outline wall decoration, £79 ambientedirect.com
FUNDAMENTAL BERLIN Corner shelf, £399 oostor.com
ATKIN AND THYME
EDITOR’S PICK
Hexagon console table, £399 atkinandthyme.co.uk
FERM LIVING Brass pencil holder, £72 scp.amara.com
LOAF Postino side table, £175 loaf.com
SHAPE SHIFTERS
ORIGINAL STYLE Blue Large Hexagon tile, £POA originalstyle.com
Absolutely’s edit of eyecatching geometrics By P E N D L E H A R T E
PATRICIA URQUIOLA LA Sunset coffee table, £POA chaplins.co.uk
DISTINCTIFY KARLIE KLUM
Piccolo side table, £159 distinctify.com
Hexagon wallpaper, £28 limelace.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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FINLAND’S FINEST This summer, Finnish design house Marimekko is celebrating 50 years of its Tasaraita stripe – but the company’s story goes back further than that. Absolutely traces its history Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D
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t all began in 1949 when Viljo Ratia founded Printex, a small Helsinkibased textile printing company, in 1949. Viljo’s wife, Armi Ratia, envisioned a bold future for textile design and manufacturing. To fulfil her vision, she gathered promising young artists around her and asked them to create new and striking fabric prints for Printex. One of the young artists was Maija Isola, whose Amfora design was among the first fabrics printed at Printex. They quickly gained a lot of admirers but no buyers, so these unusual fabrics needed a showcase. Armi’s solution: a fashion show filled with colour, grace and exceptional patterns. The clothes designed by renowned fashion designer Riitta Immonen literally sold on the spot. Marimekko was registered as a company five days later, in 1951 and the following year Marimekko opened its first store in Helsinki.
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Vuokko Eskolin-Nurmesniemi joined Marimekko in 1953 to design clothing and print patterns. Alongside her radical loosefitting dress designs, Vuokko created one the most enduring Marimekko classics: the unisex Jokapoika (every boy) shirt in the striped Piccolo pattern. Maija Isola continued to create iconic Marimekko prints like Kivet (stones) and many more. The Marimekko logo, inspired by the simplicity of Olivetti typewriter letters, was born in 1954. Towards the end of the decade, the story of Marimekko began to spread across the seas: first it reached Sweden and soon after the United States. The 1960s got off to a good start with Jacqueline Kennedy buying seven Marimekko dresses and wearing one of them on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1960. Marimekko became an internationally renowned phenomenon and a way of life. The company grew rapidly and its product range expanded to include a variety of
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INTERIORS • FOCUS
MAIJA ISOLA
Marimekko became an internationally renowned phenomenon and a way of life
accessories and home items. Armi Ratia built a utopia called Marikylä (Marimekko Village), whose aim was to house the staff and to function as a laboratory for product design and Marimekko living. New fashion designers joined the company, among them Annika Rimala whose modern dress designs were regularly featured in international fashion magazines. She also created many typical Marimekko prints like Puketti (bouquet), Keidas (oasis) and Tarha (garden). In the ‘60s, Maija Isola created many of her best-known Marimekko prints, Lokki(seagull) and Kaivo (well) for example. The most widely known by far, however, is Unikko (poppy), which Maija designed in 1964 in protest after Armi Ratia had declared that Marimekko would never be a flower print company. During the 1970s, the product range was further expanded with the launch of canvas bags designed by Armi’s son, Ristomatti A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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40 Years experience “A level of service I believe goes above and beyond. Thank you Roger!” Louise, W4 • Fully qualified installation professionals • Project managed - design conception to completion • CAD (Computer Aided Design) • A proud member of the KBSA
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Call us on: 0208 742 2236 or visit our showroom: 20 Fauconberg Road, Chiswick, London W4 3JY
www.osborne-interiors.co.uk
18/09/2017 16:14
INTERIORS • FOCUS THE TARASITA STRIPE, 1968
Ratia. Textile designer Katsuji Wakisaka came to Marimekko from Japan and designed several iconic prints like Bo Boo, a pattern which immediately won over both children and adults. In 1973, Marimekko opened a new textile printing factory in Helsinki and acquired its first flatbed printing machine. The factory was expanded in 1979, when the company moved its entire textile printing to one location. One of Marimekko’s most famous licensed products was born in the ‘80s: the classic Kivi (stone) candleholder designed by Heikki Orvola. The factory building in Helsinki was expanded in 1983, and Marimekko’s headquarters moved under the same roof as the printing mill. The ‘00s were marked by a global Unikko (poppy) boom, and many other classic designs by Maija Isola also enjoyed greater popularity than perhaps ever before. The Oiva (superb) tableware designed by Sami Ruotsalainen hit the stores in 2009 and was an instant hit. The first patterns for the tableware collection were created by Maija Louekari. Marimekko’s print production was modernised with the acquisition of a new flatbed printing machine and digital screenmaking equipment.
New products have been introduced in the home collection, such as the Sukat makkaralla (socks rolled down) glassware by Anu Penttinen, the Konkkaronkka (bunch) cutlery by Mari Isopahkala, and the Hehkuva (glowing) lantern and the Valoisa (bright) lamp by Harri Koskinen. The output capacity of the textile printing factory in Helsinki was tripled in 2011 with the acquisition of a new rotary printing machine. Marimekko’s global expansion remains in full swing. The number of Marimekko stores outside Finland has more than doubled, including flagship stores in New York City and Sydney – and Marimekko is at the forefront of the international trend for Scandinavian style.
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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INTERIORS • DESIGN
Gin & Lobster
Absolutely celebrates Tatty Devine’s launch into homeware Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E
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ult jewellery designers Tatty Devine’s collaborators have included the Tate Gallery, the V&A and Belle & Sebastian. When Selfridges celebrated its 100th birthday, it was Tatty Devine’s Rosie Wolfenden and Harriet Vine who made the cake. Artists including Antony Gormley and Rob Ryan have worked with them and the jewellers’ creations have included popcorn beads, rosette brooches and tape measure belts as well as the original signature name necklaces.e Now Vine and Wolfenden have teamed up with Made.com for their first foray into homewares. a collection of quirky home accessories. Well known for mixing both humour and style in their jewellery designs, their new collection of quirky home accessories consists of seven products, focusing on Tatty Devine’s iconic motifs: gin bottles and lobsters. Tatty Devine’s Rosie Wolfenden said:“Tatty Devine is so excited to have teamed up with MADE, and can’t wait to accessorise our home. Seeing our designs come to life as the Gin Lamp and Lobster Clock is a real dream come true,” while Made.com’s design director Ruth Wasserman called the collection “perfect for the fun-loving Made customer… Tatty Devine’s witty aesthetic will bring an instant splash of personality to the home.” made.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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ANNA BACKLUND’S LIVING ROOM IN GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN
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INTERIORS • STYLE
Q U I E T P A T T E R N Incorporating pattern into your home can work as part of a ‘gentle’ scheme. Here we focus on the living room Wo r d s A B I G A I L E D WA R D S
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n this age of maximum communication life can be overwhelming, and introducing pattern can feel as if it will simply increase the noise and confusion. But when chosen carefully, pattern can be as functional as it is decorative. Pattern can contribute to environments that promote healing, wellbeing and relaxation. The living room is generally where we relax, the visual mood should be soft and comfort is key. With many disparate pieces of furniture, coffee tables, side tables, sofas and chairs, this room can easily look jumbled and cluttered. Pattern can give a focal point. A wallpapered wall behind a sofa can create the colour scheme for a room, or a rug can zone the space linking all of the random pieces of furniture together. Pile sofas with textiles, patterned blankets and throws to wrap up in and plump cushions to sink in to. Frame windows with gently decorated curtains, to create a nurturing environment and to link back to the textiles used on the sofa. Patterns don’t need to match. A colour palette that is repeated throughout the room, contrasting designs that enhance one another, or patterns that blend together will create a flow that gives consistency.
M ATC H I N G PAT T E R N S
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he practice of having a room of matching wallpaper, curtains and upholstery is becoming more popular again and Birgit Morgensten has a simplified version of this look in her home. A wall of Gräser wallpaper stretches the length of the room, with the large central window framed by curtains of the same fabric. When the curtains are closed the pattern flows across the full wall uninterrupted and when they are open the view outside is framed by the pattern. The simple upholstery and white walls stop the matching pattern being overwhelming creating a very peaceful room. Leading off from this space is a little reading area. Birgit found the two little stools in the street and reupholstered them in different prints of her fabrics. “I wanted to place them next to each other, and keep a harmonious colour theme, but the shades are varied to keep it more interesting”.
Patterns that blend together create a flow – they don’t need to match A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Made in Britain, Built to Last www.roundhousedesign.com
Richmond | Clapham | Fulham | West End | Cheltenham | Guildford telephone 020 8744 9993 |richmond@roundhousedesign.com
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INTERIORS • STYLE
W
MONOCHROME
U P H O L S T E RY
hen Kim Rosen is designing patterns for Fayce she tries to picture what she would want in her own house. “I like things that are not overpowering I don’t want something to be a focal point. I like décor to blend in with my stuff. I have a variety of different types of pieces in my home that don’t necessarily go together but they all work because there is a subtle palette.” She keeps things neutral with the occasional pop of colour. Mixing patterns to an extent but not too many crazy designs together. This accent chair upholstered in Gather has been paired with a vintage rug but as the rest of the furnishings and décor are so simple the look is restrained.
MONOCHROME
V
anessa & Brendan of Mineheart live in a 1960’s house and have added a bit of cosiness and warmth to the clean lines of the architecture with their Almost White wallpaper. Their Loveletter wallpaper behind the faded leather sofa has a sense of history to it; the pattern consists of elegant hand written love notes from a bygone era, a rarity in these days of email and text messages. The romantic time worn charm adds a sense of stillness to their home, emphasised by the combination of distressed leather sofa and their contemporary take on traditional cushion designs. The open plan space is zoned with
Extract taken from
QUIET PATTERN by Abigail Edwards, published by Clearview Books, £20
UPHOLSTERY
three different monochrome wallpapers, all lined up next to each other but defined by the wide central chimney breast. The seating area here has a romantic faded damask design, happily contrasted with the clean lines of the furniture but the space is unified by the monochrome pattern in the decorative rug on the floor, which brings the room together with a repetitive curation of delicate pattern. “We generally like walls to be quite bright and white,” says Brendan. “With dark patterned walls you feel like you can’t hang anything on top, that isn’t the case with the bleached out versions of these designs, they make the house feel light. We like wood and natural materials but if you mix that with pattern and too many other materials, it becomes too much. Our style is quite simple.” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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DISCOVERMORE
Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.
Open Days November 1st/7th (9.30am/ 9.30am) November 15th/21st (7.00pm/ 9.30am) November 29th (9.30am)
Currently recruiting into the Sixth Form with a new Sixth Form Centre opening in 2017. T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London
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KIDS & EDUCATION
PARIS MATCH
SÉZANE X BON TON Introducing Sézane’s first ever collaboration with Bon Ton: a range that evokes long French summers and dreamy beach rambles with a contemporary take on classic Gallic style. bonton.fr
Small Talk 81 · Education 83 · Summer holiday activities 86
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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RAVENSCOURT PARK
preparatory school
An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent”
Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”
Quality of Links with Parents - “Excellent”
Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” ‘’The curriculum is excellent for all ages and abilities, and is expertly matched to meet the needs of the range of pupils in the school.’’ Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - March 2016
Open Mornings Open Mornings
9.15amTuesday Tuesday 14th November 9.15am 18th September 2018
9.15amThursday Thursday 18th January 2018 9.15am 11th October 2018 9.15am 13th1st November 9.15amTuesday Thursday February2018 2018 To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, To register your 0208 attendance at one oursecretary@rpps.co.uk open mornings, please phone 846 9153 or of mail please phone 020 846 9153 or mail secretary@rpps.co.uk
Ravenscourt Park Prep School 16 Ravenscourt Avenue, London W6 0SL
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KEWKEW GREEN GREEN preparatory preparatory school school
An Independent School for Boys and Girls aged 4-11 An Independent School for Boys and Girls Quality of Teaching - “Excellent” Quality of Extra-curricular Provision - “Excellent” aged 4-11 Quality of Pastoral Care - “Excellent”
Quality of Pupils’ Achievement and Learning - “Excellent”
Quality of of Pupils’ Links with Parents - “Excellent” Quality Achievement and Learning - “Excellent” Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” Quality of Teaching - “Excellent” Quality Provision “PupilsofofExtra-curricular all ages benefit from a- “Excellent” rich and exciting Quality ofcurriculum.” Pastoral Care - “Excellent” Independent Schools Report - July 2015 Quality of Links withInspectorate Parents - “Excellent”
Quality of Pupils’ Personal Development – “Excellent” “Pupils of all ages benefit from a rich and exciting curriculum.”
Independent Schools Inspectorate Report - July 2015
Open Morning 9.15am Wednesday, 15th November 9.15am Wednesday, 17th January 2018 Kew Green Preparatory 9.15am Wednesday, 7thSchool February 2018
Layton House, Ferry Lane, Kew Green, Richmond TW9 3AF
To register your attendance at one of our open mornings, www.kgps.co.uk please phone 020 8948 5999 or mail secretary@kgps.co.uk KGPS.indd 1
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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES B RA N D F O CU S
ACTIVITIES ABROAD
Print run THEIR NIBS
Vintage-inspired children's fashion brand Their Nibs celebrates its 15th birthday this month. Known for its pretty and quirky prints and adorable shapes, the brand has evolved into homewares too. Happy birthday! theirnibs.com
SMALL TALK Holiday ideas, sun protection and a fishy game – plus a shout out for Their NIbs
IN THE SHADE IZIPIZI
Izipizi's range of kids' sunglasses caters for ages 0-10, with a special collection for babies under one. With 100% UV protection, they're safe as well as stylish. izipizi.com
A
ctivities Abroad have been providing thrilling, yet safe, family activity holidays since 2002. In that time, they have developed a fantastic range of exciting, year-round, multi-activity holidays, winning them awards for Best Small Family Holiday Company and Best Small Activity Holiday provider at the British Travel Awards for two consecutive years. Their family holidays naturally revolve around the school holidays and they offer both summer and winter trips designed specifically for active families. From multi-activity trips in Europe and further afield, to dog sledding and chasing the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland, these are exhilarating and unforgettable family holidays, which you will still be discussing around the dinner table for years afterwards. As parents themselves, they cannot place enough emphasis on the safety and organisational sides of our trips. activitiesabroad.com
EDITOR’S PICK
GO FISH
SUN SAFE
OCEAN BINGO
ECO COSMETICS
A grand total of 64 different sea creatures are featured in this game of Ocean Bingo, along with facts about each one. Tots can learn as they play. laurenceking.com
Keep your children’s skin protected from harmful sun rays with the Eco Cosmetics Sun Spray SPF 50+. The 100% mineral based formula reflects the sun's rays. £36.95 allnaturalme.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The Subscription
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summerclub@stbenedicts.org.uk summerclub@stbenedicts.org.uk
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EDUCATION • FOCUS our parents did, so it’s tempting to let technology take the strain. The sedentary, virtual lives too many of our children lead cannot be physically or intellectually healthy. Arguably, they need to interact with the great outdoors more than ever. This is not about packing youngsters off on a residential outward bounds course, but allowing them to experience a multiplicity of environments – the street and park as much as the field and forest – as often as is practicable. Parents can start by not being too directive, by allowing children to discover things for themselves. So instead of saying to really young children, “We’re going there to see so and so…”, try “We’re going on a journey, but we won’t know what we’ll see or who we’ll meet…”. On
Life on the outside
If we want young people to develop into independent thinkers, we have to let them explore, argues Cognita’s Robin Davies
F
ew parents would disagree that encouraging children to go outdoors and experience nature is beneficial. Instinctively, most appreciate that a child that is playing in the garden, mucking round in the local park or building dens is doing what children should be doing and learning from their environment. Those parental instincts are backed up by sound educational research. Various studies have shown that outdoor learning can lessen anxiety, reduce attention deficit disorder, enhance creativity, increase memory and generally support wellbeing. This consensus has to contend
with an equally powerful parental instinct – the overwhelming desire to be protective. From those early days when a toddler first crawls off the picnic blanket onto the grass, a parent’s instinct is to haul their baby back. That grass may look fun and inviting but who knows what nasty stuff lurks out of sight? This concern is natural – and, of course, children should be taught how to handle the environment safely and responsibly – but excessive protection can be damaging. Unfortunately, I suspect the situation has deteriorated since we were children. In a recent survey, three-quarters of parents said their children would prefer to play sports online rather than in real life. And we tend to lead busier lives than
“75% of parents said their children would prefer to play sports online rather than in real life”
Outdoor learning helps to reduce anxiety
Children need 'real' environments
a walk, point out things and ask children who they think put that building there or how tall they think that tree will grow. Children today lead incredibly structured lives – they get up, go to school, absorb a pretty demanding curriculum, get packed off to an after-schools club, go home, do homework, go to bed and next day start all over again. There isn’t much in the way of unstructured free time. One of the most valuable things parents can do is to deliver children occasionally from that rigid timetabling. If we want to nurture a generation of creative, confident selfthinkers, parents need to let children explore the environment ‘beyond the blanket’ – because otherwise that green grass will never seem safe.
R O B I N D AV I E S Assistant Director of Education Cognita Group of schools A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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Summer at Maggie & Rose
Plans for the summer?
Maggie & Rose is the place to be for a smashing 3 months of family fun with our exclusive summer membership This summer we’ve got a delicious seasonal menu tailored for grown-ups and little ones alike. Spend long summer days with activities to keep little minds occupied whilst you enjoy a refreshing drink on our beautiful roof terrace. Our classes and camps will be crafted around a new inspiring theme each week with art, music, cooking and make-believe classes to choose from! Join us at the coolest family hangout in town!
CALL 020 8994 7211 to enquire Terms and conditions: Offers only valid for the Chiswick Club and until 30th June 2018. Discounted summer membership offer only valid when committing to 3 months upfront. No refunds or exchanges.
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1 Essex Place Square Chiswick W4 5UJ 020 8994 7211 maggieandrose.com 25/06/2018 17:06
KIDS & EDUCATION • COMMENT
Family LIFE Maggie Bolger’s top tips for the summer holidays Wo r d s M A G G I E B O L G E R
We’re all so excited for Gunnersbury Park on 15 July for the lesser-known Citadel Festival – like a mini Wilderness, it’s an awesome mix of live music, arts, food and family entertainment. Fingers crossed the sun also purchased a ticket.
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Maggie and family
aggie Bolger is the founder and CEO of Maggie & Rose, the international family members club based in Chiswick and Kensington. A concept gaining international attention - with a club in HK and 20 clubs coming in China over the next five years, Maggie & Rose is a private members’ club with a difference. Born out of a need for somewhere to hang out with her kids, engage with them in fun classes and for a community of mums to meet, share, laugh, and cry, the business has now grown to offer membership available per family and includes access to stylish interiors, classes inspired by learning through play methods, softplay and more.
“These days it’s about making family time cool enough for the kids”
S TAY I N G S T Y L I S H
As a mum the summer season for me means being planned and well-organised. When you have a baby you don’t realise it, but you have so much more flexibility. But when your kids get older, you have to remain one step ahead and keep them busy. Gone are my days of keeping the little ones entertained and creative with pots and pans – these days it's about making family time cool enough for the kids.
EVENTS
Wimbledon of course – we try and go every year, whether you like tennis or not, I would recommend going, just for the atmosphere and the Pimms. This summer we’ll be catching a couple of shows at the South Bank Underbelly Festival – it gets better and better every year and the kids absolutely love it.
Let’s keep it real, some days you just want to throw on your comfiest clothes, tie your hair up and think about looking stylish another day. This is especially true when you’re battling teenage sleepy heads and morning tantrums. Culottes are my absolute favourite wardrobe piece. When you’re spending the days running around at work or out and about with the little ones they’re always great for convenience. Plus, they are a great day-to-night transitional piece - dress them up with a pair of heels or throw on a pair of trainers for a more casual look. Perfect for picnics in the park and drinks on the roof terrace.
N O PA S S P O R T N E E D E D
London is great in the summer, but if you’re on a budget and don’t fancy traipsing around, there’s plenty to do at home to keep the kids entertained even if you’re on a budget. It can be as simple as letting your little ones go wild with cardboard boxes and letting them play make-believe and build their very own castle. Follow Maggie Bolger on Instagram: @themaggiebolger maggieandrose.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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MATILDA
School’s Out How to entertain children (and parents) in the city this summer Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E
SCOOP
3 JULY-30 SEPTEMBER Gasholder 11, 1 Lewis Cubitt Square, London, N1
he British Museum of Food's inaugural exhibition SCOOP: The Wonderful World of Ice Cream is the ultimate summer treat for children. This celebratory show will explore the past, present and future of ice cream in a total sensory immersion – one where you can taste the savour of centuries. Featuring highlights from the world’s largest collection of icecream
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paraphernalia from Victorian ice cream moulds to an Andy Warhol print (Warhol was a known ice cream lover), this neverbefore-exhibited collection is drawn from 14,000 vintage equipment, service-ware, advertising, and music collected over 40 years by Robin and Caroline Weir, authors of the award-winning book Ice Creams Sorbets and Gelati: The Definitive Guide. bmof.org
MONSTROUS FESTIVAL
29 JULY Printworks Monstrous Festival caters for children. It has seven different fantasy worlds, a fairground and the world’s biggest inflatable. Supervised adults allowed.
monstrouscreations.co.uk
WICKED
ONGOING Apollo Victoria Wicked is the 14th longest running show in West End theatre history, and while it's pitched at children aged seven plus, it's probably most popular among young teens. Often described as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, the story actually takes place before, simultaneously and after the familiar Oz tale.
wickedthemusical.co.uk
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KIDS & EDUCATION • SUMMER FUN ALICE IN KEW
OUT OF TOWN
Camp Wilderness VARIOUS LOCATIONS
C MONSTROUS FESTIVAL
MATILDA
ONGOING Cambridge Theatre Eight million people have now seen the Royal Shakespeare Company's Matilda. Tim Minchin's clever lyrics and memorable music make this show leagues above the rest, as its legions of fans of all ages will testify. Running in London since 2011, the unstoppable production.is now booking until October 2019.
matildathemusical.com
ALICE IN KEW
21 JULY - 27 AUGUST Kew Gardens Become part of the action as you bump into the constantly late White Rabbit, watch the Queen of Hearts and her beautifully choreographed troop of cards and sing along to catchy tunes as Alice learns to find her way around the Wonderland that is Kew Gardens. This is set to be a magnificent piece of outdoor theatre. theatreonkew.co.uk
amp Wilderness, at six locations accross the UK, is a summer camp that's dedicated to wholesome outdoor fun. Children aged between six and 15 can enjoy three- or five-day residential camps, staying in bell tents in ancient forests and spending their days learning bushcraft skills, wild swimming, cooking over open fires and enjoying the freedoms of the outdoors. Wilderness offers an antidote to the screen-dominated childhood: think den-building and archery rather than Fortnite and instagram. Evenings are spent storytelling and toasting marshmallows on a campfire – and children return full of new-found confidence and independence. City kids especially are certain to benefit from a hefty dose of outdoor adventures – and everyone is certain to make friends and lifetime memories.
WICKED
Camps are running at six woodland locations, from Kent to Yorkshire, from 23 July to 31 August
• Prices from £249 per head. campwilderness.co.uk
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KIDS & EDUCATION • PROMOTION
Picture Perfect All your family photography needs in one place: Chiswick’s Snappy Snaps Wo r d s J O H N F I T Z G E R A L D
personal style as well as off-the-shelf frames for almost instant framing. Complementing our range of services is our on-site Photography Studio with resident professional photographer Anand. He will help make any family portrait (with or without pets), baby to bump or corporate headshot something truly special. This is a local, friendly and qualified place where everything to do with photography is possible. I’m proud of what we do, fast service times if needed, without compromising great quality. You can rely on us to help you compose the perfect family portrait, print it professionally and frame it, allowing you to display your images on your walls in ways that compliment your personal style and chosen décor”.
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hiswick residents might think that the local Snappy Snaps store has been here since the first photograph. Located on the corner of Chiswick High Road and Turnham Green Terrace, John Fitzgerald and his trained team have been trading in the same spot since 1988. Over the three decades Snappy Snaps Chiswick has worked closely with local schools, PTAs, churches and clubs including the Bedford Park Festival Photo competition to support the local community. John says: “Living in Chiswick, I’ve seen this area change just as much as the technology we use today. Our shop started as the place where treasured films came to be transformed into wonderful colour or black and white photographs. We had a darkroom with enlargers and trays: technology had not changed much since the 1950s. Now, with digital photography, scanning and processing, we can do so much more. Going digital means we are able to transform any of your images into
Our resident phtographer will make any portrait truly special
a wonderful array of products: everything from simple photographic prints and photo gifts from such as mugs, placemats and cushions, to books or huge wall art. We produce almost everything in store. From the large-scale prints, which include fine art reproductions and canvas prints, high gloss aluminium panels and photos on wooden blocks, right down to smaller things such as placemats and coasters, jigsaws and shopping bags, all direct from your phone or tablet. In recent years the business has branched out into bespoke framing, incorporating the staff from The Picture Man, which used to be next door and creating Chiswick Custom Framing. Their combined 30 years' expertise means improved service and selection for customers choosing frames. You can ask the experts to advise you on all your framing queries and on the new website you can book a time slot to discuss your needs or drop off your treasured artwork. We have everything: a frame tailormade to complement your art, photos or memorabilia, chosen to suit your home and
S N A P PY S N A P S Chiswick Open 7 days a week, pop in for some advice or to book an appointment with the studio, then contact John and the team at Snappy Snaps Chiswick, Chiswick High Road, W4 1PP or call 020 8994 0854. Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6.30pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 4pm.
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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THE TERRACE RETURNS TO BELGRAVIA WITH A MEXICAN TWIST
Re-discover Belgravia’s favourite al fresco social hub situated just off Motcomb Street. Try our brand new food menu or enjoy our Mexican inspired cocktails from Patrón. Receive a complimentary ticket to the V&A’s much anticipated exhibition ‘Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up’ when you spend £30 and quote ‘Frida Kahlo’. Open daily from early May. To reserve your table, call 020 7858 7223 or visit lowndesdining.co.uk
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TRAVEL
CHASING THE SUN MARIGOT BAY RESORT We get a taste of island life on a relaxing and rum-filled escape to Marigot Bay Resort and one of St Lucia's most enticing marinas. marigotbayresort.com stlucia.org
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“A bottle of rum and a devilishly moorish ginger cake are waiting for us in our rooms as we arrive; both do wonders to remedy jet-lag”
MARIGOT'S COMPLIMENTARY FERRY TAKES GUESTS FROM BAY TO BEACH IN MINUTES
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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST
Island
REIGN Marigot Bay Resort is the jewel in St Lucia’s crown of luxury hideaways. Absolutely discovers it on a restful and slightly rainy escape to the Caribbean’s most verdant island By HELEN BROWN
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t’s April and it’s sweltering in the UK. An unexpected, headline-making, sweat-breaking heatwave is causing havoc on London’s public transport and sales of Calippo are skyrocketing. So you can imagine my dismay to touch down in St Lucia beneath a thunderous sky and drizzle. Well, you win some, you lose some. So as my jetlag addled brain navigates the puddles on the concourse, I focus on the positives. 1. A relatively short transfer to base-camp for the week which, 2. is the exceedingly luxurious Marigot Bay Resort. Such is the first benefit that in under two hours I have a Marigot signature rum cocktail in hand. Welcome to the Caribbean. Almost every inch of St Lucia is covered with rainforest: large prehistoric-looking fern trees, sturdy vines and gangly palms line the roads, which – I might add – are tortuous. It takes one hell of a confident driver to manoeuvre the twists, turns and gradients of the coastal road. But it does afford spectacular views across the sea. Our driver very thoughtfully makes a number of stops along the way so that we can get out and snap particularly beautiful vistas. St Lucia certainly is blessed by nature. Five miles south of the capital Castries, Marigot Bay is an uber-chic—yet laid-back—villa resort climbing the hillside above one of the Caribbean's most beautiful bays. It also overlooks a marina filled with fabulous megayachts. So the view is incomparable. Add upscale accommodation, excellent
dining, personalised service, a fabulous spa, two pools and… well, you’ll be hooked. You might even consider chartering your own yacht in the marina. But why do that when the rooms here are an utter delight? Each is finished beautifully with dark wood furniture, creamy upholstery accented with colorful cushions, a comfy bed with pillow-top mattress and hardwood flooring. Suites have a separate living and dining room with a sofa bed, Bose sound system and open-plan kitchen that comes fully equipped with anything and everything you could possibly need—there's even a washer and dryer. A bottle of rum and a devilishly moorish and locally-produced ginger cake are waiting for us in our rooms as we arrive; both do wonders to remedy jet-lag. Each day brings a new treat, all local to the region and just as tasty as the first. One could certainly get used to this. Ground floor suites come with their own private outdoor hot tub while second and third floor suites have a spectacular view of Marigot Bay itself. I still can’t decide which is better but I will say that waking up to that sparkling view - especially when the sun does eventually peek its head from behind the clouds - never gets old. Foodies will be in raptures over Marigot’s culinary offering which compiles a variety of dining options, overseen by Executive Head Chef Billy Boyle. The Grill at 14°61° showcases modern Caribbean fare at its finest with a A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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77-79 WESTBOURNE GROVE - W2 4UL LONDON - UK Tel: +44 (0) 20 7221 5137 london@devon-devon.com
FLORENCE ·
CHICAGO ·
COPENHAGEN ·
HAMBURG ·
ISTANBUL ·
LONDON ·
MILAN ·
MUNICH ·
NAPLES
NASHVILLE · NICE · PADUA · PARIS · PRAGUE · ROME · SHANGHAI · TBILISI · TEL AVIV · WARSAW · WIEN
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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST THE MARINA ACCOMMODATES SOME OF THE WORLD'S BIGGEST SUPER YACHTS
menu of seasonal dishes and quality local ingredients. Here is where guests can go all out with a private dining experience - highly recommended. Our first meal is served in a private room just off the main restaurant where we are free to be our raucous and rowdy selves, we are spoiled with a magical al fresco table on the terrace for our would-be last meal at Marigot, and settle into the main restaurant of 14°61° for an unanticipated final feast when our flight home is delayed. Each is a triumph. Access to one of the Caribbean’s toniest marinas means you’re likely to rub shoulders with some pretty world-class mariners; don’t forget to pack a few pieces of finery for dinner.
ROOMS ARE AVAILABLE WITH RESORT VIEW OR BAY VIEW
The pool bar and Brut Bar soon become favourites for al fresco drinking and dining. Sushi, Caesar salad, cocktails and fresh coconut water (served in the coconut shell, naturally) become daily occurrences. The pool bar also serves as a very convenient shelter from the occasional monsoon and so we while away many an afternoon slurping rum cocktails and spoiling in the hospitality of the charming bar staff. When all that pool-lounging gets too much, an hour-or-so’s drive back along those twisting roads (a light breakfast is advised) will take you to Rainforest Adventures where you can throw yourself from the treetops in a white-knuckle zip-lining experience. It’s not actually that terrifying, but it is a brilliant way to explore St Lucia's densely packed green spaces. After a quick tutorial I am strapped into an especially unflattering harness, (complete with helmet and hairnet), before joining a queue of nervous-looking punters. There is a series of lines to complete and I'm relieved to make it down the first without snapping the line or getting struck in the face by a wayward gecko. By the end, even the most acrophobic will have eased in and will enjoy soaring through the canopies. MARIGOT BAY SUITE WITH PRIVATE HOT TUB
“I am relieved to make it down without snapping the line or getting struck in the face by a wayward gecko” Back at the resort, a night at The Rum Cave is just what the doctor ordered to settle any remaining tree-top jitters. At this hidden delight, guests get an education in, you guessed it, rum - Caribbean and otherwise - from Marigot’s cheeky and charming head barman. From the sugar cane plantations to the exotic bottles it’s served in, we spend an evening discovering the ins and outs of making this most essential of island spirits. And of course, there is plenty of opportunity to sample. A variety of rum tasters are served alongside a selection of nibbles to keep those sailor’s legs steady. With resplendent views and unmatched hospitality, Marigot Bay Resort is a dream destination for anyone looking for a little R&R and a luxurious taste of St Lucian living. The view across the bay is the stuff of postcards, especially when the glorious Caribbean sun is shining, which, more often than not, it is. Unfortunate as I was not to bring the British sunshine away with me, my stay at Marigot Bay Resort is idyllic. Come rain or shine, this venue delivers in bucketloads.
M A R I G OT B AY R E S O R T & M A R I N A Marigot Bay Resort & Marina offers a bay view 1 bedroom suite for 2 from £696 on a room only basis. Flights from London to St Lucia are available direct with British Airways. For more information on St Lucia visit stlucia.org . Lounge access provided by dragonpass.com and No1 Lounges. marigotbayresort.com
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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The TEMPUR® Collection Mattresses | Pillows | Beds Department Store
Department Store Chiswick: 396 Chiswick High Road, Chiswick W4 5TF | 0208 747 8886 Ealing: 132-138 Uxbridge Road, Ealing W13 8QS | 0208 579 1234 Windsor: 120-124 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DP | 01753 801000
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his imposing Grade IIlisted redbrick Victorian building sits in an isolated spot at the top of Newquay’s Fistral Beach, looming over the landscape. There’s something very cinematic about it, and this was fully exploited by Nicolas Roeg, who filmed much of his 1987 version of Roald Dahl’s The Witches here. The building and its remote-looking location (in fact, central Newquay is a few minutes’ walk away) play an important role in the film. Today, while the interiors have been updated, they retain the grand scale and of course the sea views that dominate virtually every room. An intriguing if slightly spooky scale model of the building in lego takes over one of the grand landings. We feel that Wes Anderson would love it here.
The Room
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ur family suite is at the very top of the building, commanding fantastic views of the beach. Comfortable beds, a spacious bathroom, an excellent shower and all the luxuries you’d expect make for a comfortable stay. We spend a happy evening watching The Witches from the concierge’s dvd library (they have multiple copies).
The Area
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he north coast of Cornwall is full of beautiful beaches. We take a small trip to nearby Watergate Bay where Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant has a stylish outpost with marvellous beach views. A drive to Padstow is recommended for Rick Stein’s foodie offerings and the coastal path.
What to do
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istral Beach is a surfer’s paradise. We wake up to see eager surfers taking to the waves at the crack of dawn: it’s a vast stretch of sand with endless crashing waves. The hotel can arrange surfing lessons; it also has a spa that’s one of the best in the region. Its two restaurants are high – Samphire is formal with a pianist, silver service and a two rosettes while The Terrace is more relaxed.
weekend
The Hotel
DESTINATIONS
TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY
“Impressive sea views dominate virtually every room”
THE HEADLAND, NEWQUAY CORNWALL An impressive Victorian hotel located at the top of beautiful Fistral Beach By PENDLE HARTE
Last minute double rooms from £23 THE HEADLAND Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall TR7 1EW 01637 872211 headlandhotel.co.uk
A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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HIGH I DESIGN
Modern architecture meets traditional charm at Montaltini, a modernist holiday home in Puglia that’s perfect for a family Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N
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t wasn’t until we’d been parents for a year or so that we learned how to ‘do’ family holidays properly. Before our first child arrived, any worries about future travel plans centred on flights – would our daughterto-be scream and annoy fellow passengers? Would she wriggle and fight to be free of our laps? In the event, we still travelled a lot in her first year, and the flights were rarely a big deal. Even a long-haul trip to LA with a newly walking thirteen month-old – eager to toddle up and down the aisle for the full 11 hours – was, ultimately, bearable. By that time, of course, we’d figured out the real key to holiday happiness when you have little ones in tow: the right accommodation. Our first trips during the summer following our daughter’s birth were shorter hops to Marseille and Provence, where we (naively) stayed in small hotels highly regarded for their luxurious amenities and air of stately repose. That is, until we
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TRAVEL • UK THE POOL SURROUNDED BY CENTURIES-OLD OLIVE TREES
“The house became a frame through which to look out onto the timeless country beyond”
THE GUEST-HOUSE HOUSED IN A TRADITIONAL TRULLO
pitched up with a nap-hating six monthold already possessed of a firm grasp on the power of a well-timed shriek. We felt terrible every time she cried or complained, and resolved to do things differently in future – from that point forward, it would be private lets all the way. When our second daughter arrived, shortly before our first turned two, it cemented our certainty – which was why we found ourselves enlisting the help of the experts at The Thinking Traveller when planning our next family holiday. We wanted a destination that was conveniently accessible, naturally beautiful, blessed with an air of authenticity and – importantly – that offered a choice of private accommodation that didn’t compromise on design or comfort. Our consultant’s answer was immediate: Puglia, the southern Italian region famed for sprawling olive groves, white hilltop towns, tumbledown walls of creamy stone and magnificent beaches. Happily, Puglia is also blessed with a large number of new
and historic villas, masseria and trulli, built or renovated to the highest standards – and often with family life in mind. Heedful of our love of contemporary architecture, the Thinking Traveller recommended Montaltini, a modern property close to the coastal town of Monopoli, designed by Luca Zanaroli Architects. An elegant L-shaped building comprised of two old-stone wings joined by a black cubic lodge, Montaltini features four spacious double bedrooms as well as a separate guesthouse in the form of a traditional, cone-roofed trullo. Set in gardens scattered with centuries-old olive trees, the house is framed by cacti-bearing gravel beds, a pale concrete terrace and an infinity pool surrounded by sun-bleached decking. We fell in love with the photos and were even more impressed by the real thing: only an hour’s drive from both Bari and Brindisi airports, situated along a dusty gravel track among almond trees laden with fruit – extremely well-connected yet with a pleasing sense of privacy and calm. The villa was also ideal for our children, then aged eight months and 2 and a half: large enough for our elder daughter to explore and enjoy a little freedom; small enough that we could always keep an eye on her. Her sister, not quite crawling yet, enjoyed playing at the pool’s edge under the shade of the olives while the adults enjoyed long meals prepared in the outdoor kitchen and eaten at the huge al fresco dining table. The villa, which sleeps ten adults, was the perfect size for two or three couples or small families to share; we had an entire wing to ourselves while friends took the remaining rooms. The bathrooms were fit for a luxury spa, while the designer furniture (much of it with a Seventies Milanese vibe redolent of Luca Guadagnino’s movie I Am Love) proved
remarkably resilient to all the rough and tumble an excited toddler could throw at it. The languid September days were spent lazing beside the pool or visiting local towns including picturesque Alberobello, famed for its winding streets and central huddle of white trulli, and Monopoli, with its imposing historic centre serenely overlooking the bluest sea. The beaches - even those close to town centres, are still possessed of a ‘golden age’ charm (think The Talented Mr. Ripley) and there are several large coastal nature reserves within an hour or two’s drive for those seeking a little more ruggedness or isolation. A highlight of our trip was a four-course meal at the villa, provided by two local cooks with a definite flair for Puglian classics: unforgettable pasta and irresistible tiramisu. But while the food was superb, the villa itself was ever the star of the show: its clean, geometric lines and minimalist sophistication ingeniously integrated into the surrounding landscape. Indeed, the house and garden became a frame through which to look out onto the timeless country beyond, and we loved showering al fresco in the pool showers, out of sight below the garden, looking out across the groves as the rosy glow of dawn gave way to another blazing morning. Later we would sit out together beside the pool, the children playing as we watched the sun fall and the moon come up behind the twin cones of the trullo. There is a traditional Puglianese tongue-twister that runs, ‘Si ce n’amma scì, sciammu’ncinn. Si nun ce n’amma scì, nun ce ne sciàm scénn’. It means: ‘If we have to go, let’s go. If we don’t have to go, let’s stay.’ Alas, we couldn’t stay at Montaltini forever. But we’ll definitely be going back. Villa Montaltini is available to book through thethinkingtraveller.com Prices start at £4,032 per week. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N
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LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR LONDON Royal Hospital Chelsea 3-5 August 2018
SEE THE WORLD’S BEST SHOWJUMPERS! Book Your Tickets Now on gcglobalchampions.com or via ticketmaster.co.uk
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Hugging the south shore of Lake Geneva and just outside the historic Evian-les-Bains, the Evian Resort is a multistarred haven of manicured grounds and grand interiors. Stretching over 47 acres, the resort houses two luxury hotels, the 5-star Hôtel Royal and 4-star Hotel Ermitage. I’m here to visit the former.
Why go? With six floors and 150 rooms, Hôtel Royal’s turn of the century structure cuts an impressive figure on the waterfront. Panoramic views across the lake and a mountainous horizon, paired with the hotel’s impressive spa facilities and activity offering (it has its own sports and culture office) means it is well-equipped as a wellness hotspot.
What to do? From paragliding and mountain biking to rafting and snowshoeing, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to activities within and around Hôtel Royal, whatever the season. On my first morning I find myself up at the crack of dawn for a yoga session, led by seasoned yogi Julien Levy. Held in the light-flooded gym space, it is the perfect way to prepare for an action-packed day ahead. Undeterred by the unseasonably chilly weather, I link up with one of the hotel’s
activity leaders for a hike into the mountains, specifically to visit the impluvium, where Evian water begins its 15-year journey down the mountain to the source. With stunning views across the Alps, lush fields and grazing cows aplenty, it’s a revitalising experience. A trip to the Evian Resort would not be complete without a visit to the spa. Voted France’s Best Resort Spa in 2017, you can expect 24 treatment rooms, a relaxation room, two heated pools (indoor and outdoor), jacuzzis, sauna, steam room and cold pool. There’s even an outdoor hydro-circuit, a unique feature that incorporates whirlpools, currents and water jets. After rotating from sauna to steam room to pool, I take to one of the private treatment rooms for an indulgent salt scrub and mud wrap. Stretching over 75 blissful minutes, it leaves my skin feeling baby smooth.
Where to eat?
To recharge after an exhausting morning of spa treatments (sorry not sorry), I head to Le Veranda, one of the hotel’s in-house restaurants, for a light lunch of fresh fish sourced from the lake (which, incidentally, can be seen from my table), served on a bed of crunchy veg. If you’re looking for a more formal dining experience, the Hôtel Royal’s Michelin-starred offering, Les Fresques, is the one for you. Menu highlights include line-caught sea bass and a decadent dessert of dark guanaja chocolate. You deserve it after all that pampering.
“A trip to the Evian Resort would not be complete without a visit to the spa”
ESCAPE
What?
wellness
TRAVEL • WELLNESS
HÔTEL ROYAL We discover the 5-star palace hotel in the heart of The Evian Resort on a restful retreat to Lake Geneva By J OY M O N TG O M E RY
Rooms at Hôtel Royal are available from 249EUR (approx. £221) per night, based on two adults sharing a Sejour Park View room on a room-only basis. For bookings, contact: 33 450 26 85 00 reservation@evianresort.com • Quai Baron de Blonay 74500 Evian-les-Bains France evianresort.com
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CURTAIN CALL
INSPIRED INTERIORS
Our redesigned and extended showroom is now open, incorporating a large Luxaflex design studio showing the latest motorised blinds, nestled alongside nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure as curtains and blinds
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm • Sat 10am-6pm Evenings by appointment 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk
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CREATORS OF THE WORLD’S MOST DESIRABLE FIREPLACES Our OUTDOOR GAS BURNERS are available in numerous sizes with a large glamorous flame for all of your outdoor heating needs.
CVO Fire | Unit 4 Beaumont Square Newton Aycliffe | County Durham | DL5 6XN 01325 301020 | sales@cvo.co.uk www.cvo.co.uk Image supplied by www.danielshea.co.uk CVO.indd 1
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PROPERTY Featherstone Leigh: Hogarth House
CHISWICK LANE W4
ÂŁ3,000,000
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Living the Dream
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lose to Chiswick High Road, an impressive five bedroom Edwardian home that has been extensively restored and renovated into a luxury family house. Original period features such as stain glass windows, cornicing and fireplaces contrast with modern touches such as a cinema room, concealed hot tub and sauna. The home also features a 69 ft garden and balcony to the master bedroom, perfect for the summer months.
John Martin
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FEATHERSTONE LEIGH Chiswick 020 8994 6567 featherstoneleigh.co.uk
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CHISWICK LANE, CHISWICK A highly desirable five bedroom Edwardian family house with offstreet parking and a wealth of original features including cornicing, tiling to the entrance hall and stained glass windows. Bi-folding doors open onto decking with a barbeque and concealed hot tub. EPC - D
5
5
2
ASKING PRICE
£2,750,000 CHISWICK 020 8994 6567
WHELLOCK ROAD, CHISWICK A two/three bedroom, two bathroom split-level apartment arranged over the first and second floors of an elegant, early 1900’s conversion located on the fringes of the Bedford Park conservation area on Whellock Road, immediately off Woodstock Road. EPC - C
3
2
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ASKING PRICE
£750,000 CHISWICK 020 8994 6567
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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea
Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond
Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston
featherstoneleigh.co.uk
CHISWICK QUAY, CHISWICK An opportunity to purchase a simply stunning south-west facing river property by Chiswick Bridge in a unique and prestigious location with spectacular panoramic river views and direct access to the river Thames. Set within a private marina in the Grove Park Conservation Area, it will appeal especially to all lovers of space, light and views, to river and boat enthusiasts and to lovers of nature, wildlife, green open spaces and an outdoor life, yet with easy access to central London and surrounding areas. EPC - C
ASKING PRICE
ÂŁ2,250,000
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CHISWICK 020 8994 6567
19/06/2018 10:30
HOGARTH HOUSE Virginia Woolf’s Former Home and Original Press Shop
T
he former home of Virginia Woolf, and the birthplace of Hogarth Press, which the writer established with her husband Leonard Woolf in 1917, is avilable for sale. Hogarth House is an exceptional grade II listed home in the heart of Richmond, which has now been painstakingly restored to its former glory. Virginia and Leonard Woolf moved to Hogarth House in 1915, and started printing as a hobby two years later with a small handpress, some old typeface and a range of additional materials. From
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here spawned a publishing house that went on to publish 527 titles between 1917- 1946, before becoming an associate company of Chatto & Windu, and later part of Random House. The Georgian property dates back to circa 1750, and has been beautifully converted into two houses, The Leonard and The Virginia. Original period features have been restored and renovated as part the homes’ redevelopment by Berwick Hill Properties. High ceilings, intricate cornicing, and original fireplaces provide a wealth of character that blend seamlessly with modern design to create a fantastic family home.
The Leonard provides over 3600 square feet of living space, and is spread across four storeys. The basement features a bespoke hand-made kitchen with Miele appliances, TV den and utility room. On the ground floor a formal reception room and dining room are flooded with light through the large Georgian windows, whilst feature fireplaces provide focal points to both rooms. The first floor is made up of the master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and second bedroom, which can be adapted into a dressing room to suit the owner’s needs. The top floor features two further
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PROPERTY • PRIME FOCUS
bedrooms, one of which is ensuite, and a family bathroom. Each of the three bathrooms on the upper floors have Fired Earth sanitaryware, furniture, tiling and cabinetry. Outside, the low-maintenance front and rear gardens have been designed by RHS Chelsea medal-winner Heather Appleton. Rare to such a central location, parking is also available within the neighbouring covered car park. Hogarth House sits moments from Richmond Village, with a wide range of amenities close by. Popular eateries including The Ivy Café and Bingham Restaurant are less than 10 minutes away by foot, whilst the Thames is just a seven
"High ceilings, intricate cornicing and original fireplaces provide a wealth of character "
minute walk. Perfect for commuters, the home is just a six minute walk from Richmond train station, with regular trains to London Waterloo taking just 19 minutes. Top schools in the area include Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rated St Elizabeth's Roman Catholic Primary School, The Vineyard School and Marshgate Primary school, plus independent schools including King's House School, Old Vicarage School and the German School. This property is definitely an opportunity not to be missed. For more information on our properties, visit. featherstoneleigh.co.uk Guide Price: £3,250,000. Featherstone Leigh Richmond, 020 8940 1575
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Bath Road, W4
£1,550 per week Wilton Avenue, W4
A six double bedroom family house located in Bedford Park with over 2,400 sq. ft of living space. Arranged over three floors, there is off-street parking and a garden, energy rating e.
Set over three floors, this spacious period house has five double bedrooms and a private garden. There is a large reception room, separate kitchen and two bathrooms, energy rating e.
020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
Duke Road, W4
£1,038 per week
020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
£995 per week Merton Avenue, W4
A newly refurbished five bedroom house with a through reception room, extended kitchen, three bathrooms and bi-folding doors leading on to a patio garden, energy rating d. 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
£895 per week
This four bedroom house has a large reception room with feature fireplace, two bathrooms, a fully fitted eat-in kitchen, cellar and garden, energy rating e. 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com
Tenants fees apply: £180 per tenancy towards administration, £60 reference fee per tenant and £144 for a professional check in (All inc of VAT).
fletcherestates.com
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Fairfax Road, W4 Arranged over four floors, a five bedroom family home with a pretty west facing garden. There are three reception rooms retaining many of the original period features, two bathrooms, a media room, utility room and a conservatory, energy rating d.
Chiswick Lane, W4 A six double bedroom, five bathroom Edwardian house with two large reception rooms. The master bedroom has a large dressing room and a balcony. The house benefits from a sauna, media room and a garden with a terrace, energy rating d.
ÂŁ2,695,000 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com
ÂŁ2,750,000
020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com
fletcherestates.com
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SALES SALES
5 -7 Tur n h a m G re e n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 8 0 0 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E-m a i l i n fo @wh i t m a n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m
FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4 W4 SUTTON COURT ROAD,
£465,000 £2,500,000
LETTINGS
An period family home gated streetthe parking, large garden excellentand proportions offering inThree excessbedrooms, of 3500 sqftluxury of accommodation. Anexceptional, amazingly detached light, well presented triplewith aspect flatoffwith added benefit ofand a balcony private garden. bathroom, The comprises; bedroom suite, five further double bedrooms, family bathroom, WC, roof terrace, three interconnecting rooms 14' house reception room,master fully integrated kitchen, gas fired central heating, share in the separate freehold, balcony and private garden with reception side access. Ideally totalling excessclose of 50’ proximity in length, stunning kitchen/family 73’and garden, and further study,and cloakroom, entrance hall,on basement room, extensive situatedinwithin of Chiswick Park tuberoom, station theoffice extensive shopping restaurant facilities Chiswick High Road. storage, high ceilings, many original features. The house offers easy access to Chiswick High Road’s extensive array of shops, cafes and restaurants, Strand on the Green riverside and Chiswick House and Grounds. Transport links include Chiswick mainline Station, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. EPC-E.
LINDENCOTTAGE, GARDENS, W4W4 LAMB W4 SPELDHURST ROAD,
£330 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £850,000
newly lower ground floormaisonette garden flat with privatebenefit west of facing garden. Large double bedroom withsituated wardrobes, room with AAlight anddecorated spacious four bedroom period with the added a private 42’ South facing landscaped garden on thisreception popular residential wood bathroom withPark. shower over, fittedwith kitchen, TheThree flat further is on one of Chiswick's best located moments fromintegrated the shops, road onfloors, the borders of Bedford Master bedroom ensuitegarden. bathroom, bedrooms, Luxury shower room, 14’roads, Reception room, Fully restaurants cafésroom, on the High42’Road 5 minutes from Turnham Green station. Theon property is available early kitchen/breakfast Private Southand facing landscaped garden with rear access. Located the borders of Bedford ParkSeptember, offering closefurnished. proximity to all amenities. EPC-C.
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SALES LETTINGS POINT WHARF LANE,W4 TW8 ANTROBUS ROAD,
£350 PER WEEK GUIDE PRICE £1,350,000
An outstanding, fully extended period property thatsecond has beenfloor finished exacting standard our meticulous to provideBoasting a completely bespoke, stylish Beautifully presented two double bedroom flattoinanthis highly soughtbyafter riverside vendor development. a stunning open plan contemporary home.room, Entrance hall, stunning 37’ kitchen/dining/family roombedroom. with beautifully built kitchenroom, and floating cornerkitchen extension onto the garden, kitchen reception a river side balcony and a master ensuite Largecrafted open hand plan reception fully fitted with granite work front room, South facing landscaped garden, cloakroom, four bedrooms, luxury bathroom with free standing bath and walk in shower, ensuite shower tops,reception fitted wardrobes and riverside views. Underground parking space included. room, bespoke cabinetry, parquet flooring, eaves storage, front garden. The property is situated on a very popular residential road within easy walking distance of Chiswick High Road. Transport links include Turnham Green and Chiswick Park Tube Stations, local bus routes and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London. EPC-D.
QUEENCOTTAGE, ANNES LAMB W4 W4 SUTTON LANEGROVE, SOUTH, W4
£430 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £499,950
large, light and one beautifully two double thisGrove highly road inwith thethe heart ofbenefit Bedford Park, just from AAfantastic split-level bedroompresented flat located on this popularbedroom residentialflat roadon in the Parkdesirable area of Chiswick added of allocated offminutes street parking. Turnham underground station. floor position ensures beautiful views19’from and bedrooms. The flat hasGreen been completely refurbished byTop the current owner and comprises; very bright openthe planreception kitchen/reception room with bay window and space for dining, double bedroom with extensive eaves and wardrobe storage, cleverly designed bathroom with free standing bath and separate shower, allocated off street parking, long lease, low outgoings. The property is very well located being close to the shops on Fauconberg Parade and within easy walking distance of Chiswick High Road. Transport links include Gunnersbury (District and Overground) Station, Chiswick (Main line) Station and the A4/M4 for routes in and out of London.
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LIVING THE
DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market
1
IBIS LANE
W4, ÂŁ1,450,000
A
fabulous riverside town house with river views from all principal rooms. The house has a unique position at the river end of this private development. The accommodation offers a stunning top floor master suite comprising a bedroom, dressing room, luxury ensuite and roof terrace with commanding river views. There are three further bedrooms, utility room, cloakroom, double garage and off street parking. WHITMAN & CO Chiswick, 020 8747 8800 whitmanandco.com
FAIRFAX ROAD
W 4 , ÂŁ2,695,000
D
iscover this five bedroom family home at nearly 3000 sq.ft, presented in good order throughout with a west facing garden. The formal reception rooms retain many of the original period features and the generously sized bedrooms makes this a great long-term family home in a perfect location. Fairfax Road is within the highly desirable Bedford Park Conservation Area. FLETCHERS Chiswick, 020 8987 3000 fletcherestates.com 1
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BARNFIELD ROAD W 5, £9 5 0,0 0 0
A
SEDGEFORD ROAD
BROOK GREEN
W6, GUIDE £8 MILLION
S
three bed centre terraced family home, combining period features with modern living. In the heart of award winning Pitshanger Village, the property offers spacious accommodation comprising a lounge, cloakroom, utility room and kitchen, which has been extended to create a lovely family space. The dining area opens out onto a secluded west-facing 40’ rear garden.
ieze a fabulous opportunity to purchase the largest private house on the south side of Brook Green with 138' apx southerly walled garden. Feel the benefits of city-living whilst enjoying the peace and quiet you would find in the country. The house has a wonderful feel, offering great lateral living. The property is arranged with two floors of living space and two bedrooms.
JOHN MARTIN ESTATES
FINLAY BREWER
Ealing, 020 8998 3333 johnmartinestates.com
Brook Green Office, 020 7371 4171 finlaybrewer.co.uk
W 1 2 , £ 1 , 3 9 5 ,0 0 0
A
pretty Edwardian family house with stunning interiors. The double reception flows into a fabulous 29' kitchen & dining space with polished concrete heated flooring. The original proportions of the house are largely intact and there is still scope to extend into the loft. A useful garden room/ studio has been added and viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the property's true character.
VIEWING IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO APPRECIATE THE PROPERTY'S TRUE CHARACTER
PHILIP WOOLLER
Shepherds Bush, 020 8811 2929 philipwooller.com
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www.finlaybrewer.co.uk BROOK GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH BROOK ACTON GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH ACTON
138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD
www.finlaybrewer.co.uk www.finlaybrewer.co.uk
ASKEW ROAD 020 8749 7719 MARK MANSIONS, WESTVILLE ROAD W12 GUIDE £625,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 UPPER MALL W6 • 2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • PATIO GARDEN £1,500PW • RECEPTION / £6,500PCM • ENTRYPHONE LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 UPPER MALL W6 • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM • ACCESS TO COMMUNAL GARDEN •£1,500PW HOME • •2 COURTYARD •WONDERFUL BATHROOMFAMILY EPC RATING DGARDENS 61 / £6,500PCM • •• •• ••
4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS MASTER SUITEFAMILY WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA WONDERFUL HOME 2 LIVING SPACE 4 FLOORS DOUBLE OF BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS MASTER SUITE WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA
• 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE • 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS
VESPAN ROAD W12 GUIDE £1.395M FREEHOLD HAARLEM ROAD W14 • 4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS £625PW / £2,708PCM • DOUBLE RECEPTION HAARLEM ROAD W14 • OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/DINING/FAMILY ROOM •£625PW BEDROOM •2 DOUBLE 3 BATHROOMS (2 ENFLAT SUITE) / £2,708PCM • •• •• ••
•RECEPTION UTILITY ROOM CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 2 DOUBLE BEDROOM FLAT MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA RECEPTION SHOWER ROOM KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM CONTEMPORARY • MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA • SHOWER ROOM
• •• •• ••
EASY ACCESS TO HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK UNFURNISHED 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC 57 HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK EASYRATING ACCESSDTO AVAILABLE NOW UNFURNISHED
• EPC RATING D 57 • AVAILABLE NOW
ASKEW ROAD 020 8749 7719 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
• • •• •• ••
• GUEST CLOAKROOM • PAVED & WALLED GARDEN LETTINGS 020 7371 • EAVES STORAGE •BALCONY MISTING SYSTEM •UNFURNISHED EPC RATING E 49 WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY BALCONY EPC RATING C 79 UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY
4071
LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED • EPC RATING C 79
L O C A L . I N D E P E N D• EAVAILABLE N T NOW . INVOLVED
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AYNHOE ROAD W14 GUIDE £3.25M FREEHOLD • • • • •
4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS DOUBLE RECEPTION OPEN PLAN KITCHEN/BREAKFAST/FAMILY ROOM STUDY 3 BATHROOMS (2 EN SUITE)
BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171
• • • •
SEPARATE UTILITY & GUEST CLOAKROOM 37’ WESTERLY FACING GARDEN ROOF TERRACE EPC RATING C 71
FAROE ROAD W14 GUIDE £1.975M FREEHOLD • • • • •
4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS DOUBLE RECEPTION KITCHEN/BREAKFAST/FAMILY ROOM SNUG/NANNY/PLAY ROOM 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE)
BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171
• • • • •
STUDY SEPARATE UTILITY GUEST CLOAKROOM 28’ PAVED GARDEN EPC RATING D 65
LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED
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www.finlaybrewer.co.uk BROOK GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH BROOK ACTON GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH ACTON
138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD
www.finlaybrewer.co.uk www.finlaybrewer.co.uk
EDITH ROAD W14 £2,100PW / £9,100PCM UPPER MALL W6 • 6 DOUBLE BEDROOMS INC MASTER SUITE £6,500PCM •£1,500PW LARGE ELEGANT/ DOUBLE UPPER MALL W6RECEPTION • STRIKING KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM ••£1,500PW WONDERFUL HOME STUDY & PLAYFAMILY ROOM / £6,500PCM •• •• •• ••
4 BEDROOMS 4 DOUBLE BATHROOMS & 2 WCS MASTER SUITEFAMILY WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA WONDERFUL HOME 2 LIVING SPACE 4 FLOORS DOUBLE OF BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS MASTER SUITE WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA
• 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE • 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS
BEAUCLERC ROAD W6 £1,650PW / £7,150PCM HAARLEM ROAD W14 • 5/6 BEDROOMS / £2,708PCM •£625PW DOUBLE RECEPTION HAARLEM ROAD W14 • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM ••£625PW 2 BEDROOM FLAT 3 DOUBLE BATHROOMS (2 EN SUITE) / £2,708PCM •• •• •• ••
RECEPTION 2 GUEST CLOAKROOMS CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 2 DOUBLE BEDROOM FLAT MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA RECEPTION SHOWER ROOM KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM CONTEMPORARY
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 • • • •• •• •• •• ••
GARDEN UNFURNISHED LETTINGS 020 7371 MINUTES FROM BARONS COURT & OLYMPIA STATIONS 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC RATING D 59 EASY ACCESS TOJULY HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK AVAILABLE MID UNFURNISHED 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC 57 HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK EASYRATING ACCESSDTO AVAILABLE NOW UNFURNISHED
4071
• EPC RATING D 57 • AVAILABLE NOW
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 • • • •• •• •• •• ••
UTILITY ROOM/STORAGE GARDEN & SIDE ACCESS LETTINGS 020 7371 4071 MINUTES FROM GOLDHAWK ROAD & SHEPHERDS BUSH STATIONS BALCONY EPC RATING D 61 UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE MID JULY WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY BALCONY EPC RATING C 79 UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY
LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED
• MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA • SHOWER ROOM
• EPC RATING C 79
L O C A L . I N D E P E N D• EAVAILABLE N T NOW . INVOLVED
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NETHERWOOD ROAD W14 £565PW / £2,448PCM • • • • •
3 BEDROOMS BRIGHT RECEPTION WITH WOOD FLOORING LARGE EAT-IN KITCHEN KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE)
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
• • • •
CARTHEW VILLAS W6 £465PW / £2,015PCM • • • • •
2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS OPEN PLAN LIVING SPACE WITH WOOD FLOORING FITTED KITCHEN 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE) ROOF TERRACE
FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED IDEAL FOR THE TRANSPORT LINKS AT SHEPHERDS BUSH EPC RATING D 58 AVAILABLE NOW
LETTINGS 020 7371 4071
• • • • •
PART FURNISHED GREAT BRACKENBURY VILLAGE LOCATION MINUTES TO HAMMERSMITH & GOLDHAWK ROAD STATIONS EPC RATING E 49 AVAILABLE NOW
LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED
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Shaa Road £2,350,000
Aston Rowe are proud to present this beauufully presented six bedroom semi-detached house in one of Acton's most desirable roads. Finished off to a high standard throughout, this fabulous property boasts a mix of contemporary and tradiuonal design as well as its own private driveway and offers over 3,000 sqq of accommodauon set over three floors.
We are proud to present this double fronted detached house in one of Acton's most desirable roads. Owned by the current family for over 30 years, this fabulous property boasts a mix of old and tradiuonal design as well as its own private driveway and offers over 4,000 sqq of accommodauon set over three floors. The property includes eight bedrooms, five recepuon rooms, five bathrooms, separate kitchen and a conservatory which leads out to a 70q south facing garden.
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Rosemont Road £2,550,000
18/06/2018 09:16
Acton
Phone: 020 8992 3600 E-mail: info@astonrowe.co.uk 103-105 Churchfield Road, London W3 6AH www.astonrowe.co.uk
Brook Green and Hammersmith Phone: 020 7871 6997 E-mail: brookgreen@astonrowe.co.uk 82 Shepherds Bush Road, London W6 7PH
A substannal Victorian family home of just over 2600 sq with flexible living and entertaining space and a south facing garden. The ground floor is arranged with an elegant double recepnon to the front of the house, a contemporary full width kitchen/breakfast room to the rear with bi-folding doors leading to the 20' paved and turfed garden.
Pleydell Avenue £1,975,000
AR.indd 2
Marco Road £2,500,000
We are proud to present this beaunful five bedroom semi-detached house in one of Hammersmith's most desirable roads. Ideally located for Stamford Brook and Turnham Green tube stanons and is within walking distance to Chiswick High Road. The property includes an open plan kitchen/dining area with conservatory and french doors leading out onto a 50 private garden, five bedrooms, three bathrooms and two addinonal recepnon rooms.
18/06/2018 09:17
NOW OVER
50% SOLD
DISCOVER a truly exceptional place to live Exclusive residences from ÂŁ4,450,000 Experience the luxurious standard of living at this unique gated collection of 4 bedroom residences, located on the very edge of Richmond Park. Just three of these properties now remain, two restored houses within the original Grade II Listed Georgian mansion, with a range of period features and luxury contemporary refinements; and a new build residence sympathetically designed to respond to its historic setting. Viewing by appointment only. Call us now on 0333 666 4141 or email AncasterGate@londonsquare.co.uk
WWW.ANCASTERGATE.LONDON
Selling agents
Interior photography is of The Apsley show home and is indicative only. The exterior photography has been enhanced and is also indicative only. Details are correct at time of going to press. May 2018.
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PROPERTY • FEATURE
LIGHTING THE WAY John Martin of John Martin Estates in Ealing gives us his take on the property market with the benefit of 30 years experience in the industry
A
t the end of the first quarter of this year, I gave my assessment of the property market in Ealing and West London and asked if there was light at the end of the tunnel. I also recommended an enthusiastic and positive mindset for the Spring quarter to ensure a steady market where committed buyers and sellers might achieve their shared goals. The increase in activity from both prospective buyers and homeowners seeking advice on marketing their properties, which we had started to see by the end of March, continued in this quarter. Once again though, it was clear that the key factor was affordability. We have therefore already been successful in achieving acceptable offers, where properties have come to the market properly priced, during this period. Of course, the fact that the likelihood of an
interest rate increase seems to have receded and that a number of longer term fixed rate deals are appearing can only assist. Affordability is a clear mix of the sense of value for money, in the eyes of the buyer, as well as the ability to borrow the necessary funds at an attractive rate. There is still a lot of speculation about online agents and there has been a buzz around the recent merger of such companies. However, as I mentioned last quarter, there is more to a successful transaction than mere marketing on a portal and this has been evident throughout this quarter. It is knowing your area and your applicants and, specifically, identifying those potential buyers whom you recognise as really wanting a property despite what they may say regarding its perceived value. It is then a question of devoting the time to working with the applicants and clients to achieve the required result with which both parties are content. However, that is never the end
of the story and, specifically in a market of this type, a knowledgeable and experienced agent delivering personal service will not only make the necessary effort to progress the transaction, but will know the questions to ask, the procedures to be followed and how to resolve any problems in order for a transaction to reach its successful conclusion. There has been more evidence in this quarter of chains and they will always bring their own issues. I have had my long standing view confirmed in this quarter’s transactions, namely the need to see the overall picture as well as all the small individual ones in order to progress matters. Committed buyers and sellers as well as committed agents prepared to go the extra mile and work effectively together are essential to reach everyone’s common goal. So, what is the forecast for the next quarter? There is finally a realisation by the majority of agents that properties have to be affordable and that the higher prices seen in recent times are just not sustainable. Those agents now need to manage the expectations of the new seller to ensure they know this from the outset and not start them off with unachievable goals. With this approach as the platform, we can look forward to the next few months (albeit traditionally a quieter time for the property market) with positivity. For advice on Pitshanger Village and Ealing and to view the properties available, please contact John and his team. John Martin Estates 020 8998 3333 johnmartinestates.com
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www.johnmartinestates.com
EALING W5
ÂŁ495,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD
A spacious second floor apartment set in a charming development of nine moments from the heart of award winning Pitshanger Village and suitable for owner occupation or as an investment. The property is bright and airy and offered in good order with spacious lounge, two good sized bedrooms, well arranged fitted kitchen and modern bathroom. There is gas fired central heating, double glazed windows, ample storage space, entryphone system and, outside, well maintained communal garden, unallocated off street parking and a garage. Energy Performance Certificate C
82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 1
18/06/2018 11:45
“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”
EALING W5
£795,000 FREEHOLD
A beautiful Edwardian style square bay fronted family home in the heart of award winning Pitshanger Village and moments from Pitshanger Park. To the ground floor are two reception rooms and a well-arranged modern fitted kitchen. To the first floor are three good sized bedrooms and a family bathroom. Other benefits include gas fired central heating, an array of period style features and a beautiful 50’ rear garden. The property would be suitable to extend both at the rear and into the loft space (subject to the usual planning consents). Energy Performance Certificate D
T: 020 8998 3333 JOHN MARTIN.indd 2
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