KENSINGTON NOVEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY NOVEMBER 2013 £3.95

KENSINGTON

RACHEL JOHNSON THE ‘NOTTING HELL’ DIARIES

DENIM DIVA

CHLOE LONSDALE ON THE PERFECT JEAN

NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND

BASEMENT LIVING WITH ARCHITECT ALEX MICHAELIS

MUSEUM PIECES

THE V&A’S NEW FASHION ARCHIVE

Word up

FROM BURLESQUE TO BOOKS WITH ANNETTE B KELLOW

S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY COVERS NOV.indd 2

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Edwardes Square, Kensington W8

An outstanding six bedroom Grade II listed 'Key House’, overlooking the stunning communal gardens, as well as having a wonderful west-facing garden.

Price Upon Application

3,335 sq ft (309.82 sq m) Three reception rooms | Kitchen/family room | Study | Six bedrooms | Four bath/ shower rooms | Garden room | Utility room | Cloakroom | Garden | Access to square gardens

Kensington 020 7938 3666 kensington@struttandparker.com

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Denbigh Close , Notting Hill W11

A stylishly presented three bedroom mews house located moments away from Portobello Road on an extremely soughtafter, attractive, cobbled mews.

Asking price ÂŁ2,300,000 Freehold

1,409 sq ft (130.9 sq m) Drawing Room | Kitchen/dining area | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Two additional bedrooms | Bathroom | Utility Room | Terrace | EPC rating D

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 nottinghill@struttandparker.com

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‘PROFESSIONAL’ was the word most frequently used to describe our service in recent feedback. ‘Friendly’, ‘knowledgeable’ and ‘helpful’ were other words that came up time and time again

17/10/2013 09:59

TL12 FD Absolutely:Layout 1 10/10/2013 18:54 Page 1

Established in 1946 Frank Dale & Stepsons are the world’s oldest independent Rolls-Royce and Bentley specialists. With up to fifty vintage, classic and modern cars for sale at any one time, we can cater for almost every requirement, offering trustworthy advice with regards to investment potential and the market in general.

Alongside our showroom is our 6,000 square foot workshop manned by highly experienced Rolls-Royce trained engineers. Maintenance, restoration and general servicing is all carried out on site for our customers at very competitive rates. Complimentary collection, delivery and valeting all comes as part of our service.

Whether you are looking to acquire the car of your dreams, considering investing in a classic Rolls-Royce or Bentley, or simply need to arrange a service for your motor car, Frank Dale & Stepsons can assist with all of your needs. If you would like to arrange a visit to our facility or to discuss your particular requirements we would be delighted to hear from you.

S a l e s S e r v i c e T r i m m i n g R e s t or at i on 125 Harlequin Avenue, Great West Road, London TW8 9EW, UK

Tel: 020 8847 5447 Fax: 020 8560 5748 www.: frankdale.com Email: info@frankdale.com

French office: Christian Teissier, 8 Avenue J.Bordeneuve, 47300 Villeneuve-Sur-Lot, Bordeaux France Tel: 0033 55 340 3470 Fax: 0033 55 340 3481 christeissier@yahoo.fr Japanese Office: Mr Kiyoharu Wakui, Kuruma Doraku 2-10-11, Yayoi Bunkyo Ku, Tokyo, Japan Tel: 0081 33 81 16 170 Fax: 0081 33 81 66 175 kuruma.doraku@nifty.com

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ABSOLUTELY NOVEMBER 2013

9 EDITOR’S LETTER 10 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

Absolutely’s top ten this month

53 PROFILE

Denim diva Chloe Lonsdale

CULTURE 13 WHAT’S ON

November’s diary

27 RACHEL JOHNSON Life in Notting Hill

STYLE

35 INTERVIEW

Annette B Kellow

44 FASHION SHOOT Punk princesses

INTERIORS 61 THE LOOK Scandi style

64 LIFE UNDERGROUND An architect’s house

FOOD & TRAVEL 85 FOOD NOTES

News and nibbles

87 LESSONS FROM LEITH’S How to cook: a new book

PROPERTY

108 IN THEIR OWN WORDS 128 PROPERTY NEWS

ON THE COVER

ABSOLUTELY ABSOLUTELY

NOVEMBER 2013 £3.95

NOT TING HILL

JEAN GENIUS

NOVEMBER 2013 £3.95

RACHEL JOHNSON

Life in ‘Notting Hell’

The lowdown on denim from Chloe Lonsdale

NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND

KENSINGTON

RACHEL JOHNSON THE ‘NOTTING HELL’ DIARIES

SHIMMY SHIMMY

Notting Hill’s newest nightspot

Alex Michaelis’ subterranean house

DENIM DIVA

CHLOE LONSDALE ON THE PERFECT JEAN

Portobello Belle

MUSEUM PIECES

THE V&A’S NEW FASHION ARCHIVE

Word up

FROM BURLESQUE TO BOOKS WITH ANNETTE B KELLOW

FROM BURLESQUE TO BOOKS WITH ANNETTE B KELLOW

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NOTES FROM UNDERGROUND

BASEMENT LIVING WITH ARCHITECT ALEX MICHAELIS

24/10/2013 17:20

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ANNETTE KELLOW PHOTOGRAPHED BY DUNCAN TELFORD • STYLING: GATHERING GODDESS • HAIR: TOM BERRY @ PREMIER • MAKEUP: GINA FARIA LOCATION: GOODE AND WRIGHT, PORTOBELLO ROAD

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CRANBROOK BASEMENTS B a s e m e n t D e s i g n C o n s t r u c t i o n a n d To t a l P r o j e c t M a n a g e m e n t

Family room 6 Guest suite 6 Media room 6 Gymnasium 6 Wet room shower 6 Kitchen 6 Swimming pool

c B Cranbrook Basements

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ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

EDITOR Pendle Harte EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Catherine Hales EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Lindsay Baker, Pearl Boyd, Emma Harpin CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR Arabella Preston SENIOR ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Rochelle Streater GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR Alexandra Hunter CENTRAL PROPERTY MANAGER Anna Hutton-Potts ART DIRECTOR Ray Searle PRODUCTION MANAGER Stewart Hyde PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Gemma Isteed, Tahir Kapucu DESIGNERS Andrew Mavin, Ekrem Yilmaz JUNIOR DESIGNER Rebecca Noonan COPY CONTROLLER Christine Mann FINANCE DIRECTOR Alexandra Hvid DIRECTOR Greg Hughes MANAGING DIRECTOR Sherif Shaltout For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing clarissa@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging).

Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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

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EDITOR’S LETTER

S

o now we are two. Absolutely is two years old and recovering from a fantastic birthday party. Thank you to everyone who came, and particularly to the wonderful people at Beach Blanket Babylon, as well as to DJ Jimmy for tunes and Matthew Allan at Firestarter Vodka, which kindly fuelled the whole affair. This year’s special Absolutely cocktails went down as well as ever and we were thrilled that so many of our friends came to support us on the night.

Thank you all. We’ll hope to reconvene in similar style when we’re three.

Birthdays over, it’s time to focus on the November fi reworks that kick off the countdown to Christmas. And for us, that mostly means all things glamorous, which are a focus for this issue. We have the beautiful

Annette Kellow as our cover star and the lovely Chloe Lonsdale enlightening us about the glamorous aspects of denim, while we nod to the history of style at the V&A’s fabulous new resource and spotlight all the usual fabulous local fi nds. We hope you enjoy it.

Pendle Harte Editor

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

25/10/2013 12:40

0 1 e w s g n thi

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BEAUTIFUL SOUL The new collection from this Notting Hill brand is quirky and timeless. £120 - £595, beautiful-soul.co.uk 2 LULU GUINNESS This most stylish birdcage brolly, with an actual birdcage on it. £28, theumbrellashop.co.uk; 3 SOPHIE HARLEY Get lucky with the new Bonne Chance collection of charms inspired by playing cards. sophieharley.com; 4 HABITAT Lyra rocking chair, .£350; habitat.co.uk; 5 MOCKS Stylish and practical footwear in an innovative new washable material called mocklite, mocksonline.com ; 6 MILLER HARRIS Dark and mysterious Rose en Noir now comes in a new packaging and a new candle from Notting Hill. From £40, millerharris.com 7 Four new Warhol-inspired designs for the humble but iconic soup tin hit the supermarkets this month. 95p; campbellsoup.co.uk 8 BELLE DE NUIT 24 LampMulticolour Chandelier £10,000; .lladro.com 9 THIS WAY TO HEAVEN has launched a range of luxe art scarves including this one by Tony Common. £150, thiswaytoheaven.com 10 NOBLE ISLE’s range of heather honey hand products harness natural antibacterial qualities and smell delicious too. From £18, nobleisle.com

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DISCOVERMORE

INSPIRATION

ARTS

FLEXIBLE

SPORT

CHALLENGING ACHIEVEMENT

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

TRADITIONS

REALISED

INTEGRITY

BROAD SELF-BELIEF

CURRICULUM

NURTURING

SUCCESS

HAPPINESS INCLUSIVE INNOVATIVE

STIMULATING

SELF

CAMARADERIE

SOCIAL

TEACHERS

GROWTH

INDIVIDUALITY

THE RIVER

CREATIVITY

DIFFERENT ENERGY

PIONEERING

BALANCE

INQUISITIVE

HUMANITIES MODERN

OUTSTANDING

COMMUNITY

POTENTIAL

EXCELLENCE

FUN RESPECT

SCIENCE

DOOR

POSITIVITY

FRIENDSHIPS

CONFIDENCE

OPEN

ASPIRATION

ESTEEM

FULFILMENT

The new independent co-educational senior school for West London

OPEN DAYS October 23rd (7pm) November 7th/21st (9.30am/9.30am) December 3rd/10th (9.30am/7pm)

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07/10/2013 14:32

ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTURE

Diary NOVEMBER

LES VEPRES SICILIENNES (LIVE) THE GATE PICTUREHOUSE 4 NOVEMBER

A monumental operatic event in more ways than one, Verdi’s grand opera will be conducted by Antonio Pappano and star world class performers including Bryan Hymel, Marina Polavskaya, Erwin Schrott and Michael Volle. Drawing inspiration from the opera’s premiere performance in Paris, 1855, Norwegian-born director Stefan Herheim will make his Covent Garden debut.

Not only a treat for the ears but also the eyes as a ballet dancers from The Royal Ballet and the Royal Danish Ballet occupy the stage. Catch this epic performance live at the cinema at a fraction of the price.

87 Notting Hill Gate, W11, 0871 902 5731; picturehouses.co.uk 13

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ABOVE THE CLOUDS GALLERY NOTTING HILL

7 NOVEMBER - 7 DECEMBER

Tim Hall’s latest coffee table book entitled ‘Above The Clouds’ visually explores the delicate relationship between the natural alpine world and those who interact with it. The book, a collaborative effort with journalist Anna Tyzack, focuses on the Arlberg Massif in Austria, a mountain that is home to the idyllic and historic villages of Lech and Zürs. These incredible photographs, plus several additional images, will be exhibited for one month only providing a little alpine retreat in the heart of Notting Hill.

118 Talbot Road, W11 thegallerynottinghill.com

PEARLS V&A

THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER

KENSINGTON DOLLSHOUSE FESTIVAL KENSINGTON TOWN HALL 30 NOVEMBER

A celebration of all things miniature since 1985, the festival attracts over 170 of the top dolls house and miniature makers from around the globe. Whether you are looking for a new armoire for your doll’s bedroom or a replacement stove for a tiny kitchen, the enthusiastic and talented artisans will talk you through their merchandise and advise you on your miniscule project.

Kensington Town Hall, Hornton Street, W8, 020 7812 9892; dollshousefestival.com

Qatar Museums Authority, in partnership with the V&A, explores the history of pearls from the Early Roman Empire through to the present day. Pearl jewellery from a plethora of famous names such as Bulgari, Cartier, Chaumet, René Lalique and Tiffany in addition to a host of lesser-known contemporary artist jewellers will be on display.

Cromwell Road, SW7 020 7942 2000; vam.ac.uk

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTURE

THE PRINT ROOM

25 NOVEMBER - 14 DECEMBER

WINTER WONDERLAND HYDE PARK

FROM 22 NOVEMBER

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? In the lane, snow is glistening…

Well, perhaps not quite yet but regardless of this Winter Wonderland is indeed back in residence in Hyde Park. Ice-skating, circus tents, fairground rides, Santa Land, Christmas markets and, of course, lashings of mulled wine – what more could you want?

Hyde Park, W2; hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

A new play written and directed by Geraldine Alexander, Amygdala revolves around the traumatised Catherine and Simon, an eminent psychiatrist, who has been hired to help restore her memory in time for her to testify against Joshua James - a young man accused of raping her.

The play is the first to be penned by Alexander and concerned as it is with themes of repression, truth, memory and perspective looks set to be an eye-opener.

34 Hereford Road, W2, 020 7221 6036 the-print-room.org

SURFACING

GRIFFIN GALLERY 7 – 29 NOVEMBER

Focusing mainly on emerging artists from Italy and the UK, this new exhibition features winners of the 2012 Italian AOP Academy prize, supported by Winsor & Newton, Liquitex and Conté à Paris whilst the British contingent are made up of recent graduates of the Royal Academy Schools in London, selected from their proposals. The exhibition will feature works by Rebecca Ackroyd, Marisa J Futernick, Ziggy Grudzinskas, Oscar Isaias, Contreras Rojas, Isabella Nazzarri and Patrick Tabarelli.

The Studio Building, 21 Evesham Street, W11, 020 8424 3239; griffingallery.co.uk

SAM LEE

THE IDLER ACADEMY 28 NOVEMBER

Mercury-nominated musician, Sam Lee comes to the Idler Academy with his unique approach to folk music, including learning songs first-hand from the gypsy traveller community. The multi-talented musician is also a radio host, TV personality, teacher and archivist who has succeeded in challenging preconceptions of what ‘traditional folk’ should sound like.

81 Westbourne Park Road W2 idler.co.uk

WINTER FINE ART AND ANTIQUES FAIR OLYMPIA

5 – 10 NOVEMBER

Now in its 23rd year and showing now signs of slowing down, the annual Winter Fair has everything from Agatha Christie’s silver to Humphrey Bogart’s glasses as well as works by Archibald Knox, Sir Thomas Lawrence and Cartier. The fair is a must for interior designers and collectors but first time antique buyers need not panic as exhibitors are carefully vetted with only products of the best quality and purest pedigree will be on display.

Hammersmith Road, W14 020 7385 1200 olympia.co.uk 15

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name pictures, stationery & decoration for children www.juliabostonkids.com tel: 020 7610 6783

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23/10/2013 02/10/2013 11:37 17:58

H&Y Jewellery is not just a product but an ‘art form’. Situated in the prestigious Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, their store boasts the finest rare jewellery.

With expertise in the fields of watches and diamonds, each member of staff can provide a unique insight into the world of fine jewellery.

Showcasing the most vibrant designs and well-known names in luxury, their Italian design jewellery has the finest craftsmanship whether modern or classic.

41 Beauchamp Place, Knightsbridge, London SW13 1NX 020 7589 8877 www.hyjewellery.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTURE

FIC TION IN FA SHION

What have glamorous and fashionable women been reading since the 1950s? It’s a question asked by the Fashion and Textile museum and Notting Hill-based Sarah Vine has curated a display of relevant titles to run alongside the current show ‘The Glamour of Belville Sassoon’.

They range from Lady Chatterly’s Lover to White Teeth in classic Penguin editions.

Agenda This month’s highlights

W R A P IT UP

To coincide with the V&A’s major exhibition Masterpieces of Chinese Paintings 700-1900, opening this month, the fantastic V&A shop will be selling two beautiful silk scarves created by contemporary Chinese artists Xiang Jing and Qu Guangci. Called – intriguingly – Landscape Mash-Up and Dancing Auspicious Crane, the stylish print scarves are priced £85 and £150. vandashop.com

S TR ING OUT

Ukulele enthusiasts Tom Hodgkinson and Gavin PretorPinney (above) already spread their love of the small guitar at The Idler in Westbourne Park – and now their new book goes a step further. Not pnly is it a how-to guide, but it also traces the history of the instrument through an unlikely cast of characters spanning Edward Lear, Elvis Presley and Kermit the Frog, without forgetting George Formby.

The Ukulele Handbook is published by Bloomsbury, £14.99

A R T OF GL A SS

Kensington Park Road’s Vessel gallery has commissioned a stylish new range of lighting by design studio Odd Matter, formed by former students of the Royal College of Art. Each copper and glass piece is unique and inspired by traditional copper plating techniques and sumptuous stained glass panels. Bespoke pieces are available to order too; the pendants pictured are £3900. vesselgallery.com 17

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25/10/2013 11:25

NU - LINE

BATHROOMS .COM

Nu-Line Bathroom Showroom at: Unit 12-14 Malton Road London W10 5UP

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

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTURE

CLOTH PEOPLE The V&A’s vast fashion and textile archive has become more accessible as the new Clothworkers Centre for Study and Conservation in W14. Absolutely takes a tour

T

he imposing building at the end of Blythe Road may look mysterious from the outside, and until recently it looked fairly sombre inside too. But now Edwardian Blythe House, the Grade II listed former Post Office Savings Bank headquarters that houses the V&A’s entire collection when not on display in South Kensington, has had an architect’s makeover to become the impressive Clothworkers’ Centre for the Study and Conservation of Textiles and Fashion.

Sure, it was always possible to make an appointment to come and view pieces from the vast archive. Fashion designers were always booking in to check out an 18th century kimono, a 1920s bra or a piece of early Vivienne Westwood, and they still can. But before the transformation, the space was primarily a storeroom, not designed to be seen. The new incarnation is more welcoming and research-friendly, with a spacious new public study room and clever custom-built storage that allows easy access to desired pieces. Among the newly rehoused objects are 1,280 large rolled textiles from 1.5 to six metres long; 500 linear metres of hanging garments and 7,000 drawers in six different sizes housing everything from dress fabrics to religious robes, handbags to walking sticks, embroidery to underwear and over 4000 pairs of shoes.

Still, the building remains labyrinthine and sprawling, and only part of it is open the public. Visitors can search the collections online (collections. vam.ac.uk) before making appointments to visit, and public tours of the centre will take place on the last Friday of every month.

Entry to The Clothworkers’ Centre and Blythe House is free and by appointment. To book email: clothworkers@vam.ac.uk CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Red carpet dress by Laurence Xu, China, 2011 © Victoria and Albert Museum; Storage in The Clothworkers’ Centre for Textile and Fashion Study and Conservation © Victoria and Albert Museum; Blythe House © Victoria and Albert Museum; Detail of Devonshire Hunting Tapestry, 1425-30 © Victoria and Albert Museum

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WELCOME TO THE GAUTIER UNIVERSE

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16/10/2013 10:15

LULU’S ESTATE Lulu’s Estate Jewellery launched the world’s first private members’ Jewellery Club with a glittering VIP party at Ruski’s Tavern in Kensington. Guests included Laura Whitmore, Lady Natasha Rufus Isaacs, Marissa Montgomery and Lady Julie Montague.

Social

ABSOLUTELY Reporting from all the best parties in our area

SPACE NK To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Space NK launched The Beauty Council in Westbourne Grove, bringing together 20 intelligent, relevant and inspiring individuals including Tom Aikens, Julie Verhoeven, Gizzi Erskine, food magicians Bompas & Parr, creative Jenny Dyson and mother and daughter duo Pearl and Daisy Lowe together with beauty experts, historians, writers, artists and photographers challenging them to answer the question, ‘What does beauty mean to you?’

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FAIR TRADERS Zoe Kamen previews the Notting Hill Design Fair

N

ow in its fifth year, the intimate Notting Hill Design Fair is back at Portobello’s hidden gem, the 20th Century Theatre.

This year, the creative carnival is taking place on November 14-15th so savvy shoppers can snap up unique gifts ahead of the Christmas rush. With 35 stalls, it promises an impressive selection of luxury and utility clothing, handthrown tableware, childrensware, home accessories, jewellery and elegant Christmas decorations.

Over the years, the fair has gained

MEHER KAKALIA

a reputation for sourcing mainly London-based, up and coming designers whose products are not yet available on the high streets.

Many of the original band of exhibitors have since become wellestablished names in the design world, their creations picked up by Tate Modern and often featured in Vogue and World of Interiors.

Buyers for Liberty and Fortnum and Mason regularly come by to seek out the latest talent. Past fairs showcased Milliner of the Year Yasmin Rizvi’s hats before Karl Lagerfield commissioned her headpieces and ceramics by

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GUDA

THE PINK FIRM

THE PINK FIRM

Emma Clegg and Steven Geddes – now sought after collectibles.

Ones to watch in this year’s lineup include luxe clothing and home accessories by Yolke, a new brand, hatched in 2013, from two designers who met while working for Alice Temperley and Tobias Clothing who is gaining a following for stylish, ethical men’s shirts. Meher Kakalia is returning to the fair this year with a fresh collection of her colourful hand-crafted shoes and Clutterclutch, who launched at the last fair and sold out in the first day, are back with fabulous new handmade clutches.

Local design star, jeweller Pippa Small’s ethically made pieces supporting women

in Afghanistan are also back this year.

The fair began when curators Amy Long and Sasha Kamen noticed that although Notting Hill is known as a hub of creative talent, no fair existed that was dedicated to showcasing and pooling together neighbourhood talents. They source their designers carefully from local workshops and studios, taking pride in giving them a platform, and their fair gives designers free reign to curate their own space. For the shopper, the opportunity to meet the people behind the designs and learn the back story, as well as getting great gifts at direct prices, makes finding “that new thing” even more rewarding and satisfying.

MADE BY HANDS

NOTTING HILL DESIGN FAIR

Prices range from £15 to £1,500 Entry to the fair is £1, donated to Children of the Mekong.

20th Century Theatre, 291 Westbourne Grove, W11 14 November 11am-6pm; 6-8pm Cocktails and shopping in aid of Children of the Mekong; 15 November 10am - 6pm. Sponsored by One Fine Stay nottinghilldesignfair.co.uk 23

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ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

SHIMMY SHIMMY

Huge Heathcote and Deji Carr are the creative forces behind Notting Hill’s newest nightclub. Absolutely catches up with them for the lowdown on Shimmy

N

otting Hill is notoriously dry when it comes to afterhours entertainment. But this is set to change now that the former Cherry Jam has reopened as Shimmy, a new place from the international party duo that brought us Love Brunch and E.T.A, Hugo Heathcote and Deji Carr. These well-connected, goodlooking boys spend their days between Ibiza, Miami, Paris and Hong Kong playing records for fans including Cara Delevingne, Sienna Miller and Matthew Williamson.

Heathcote says: ‘This area is our hood and there’s massive demand but nowhere to go. There’s Supperclub and the Arts Club and the Electric, but people always end up going to house parties. My inspiration for Shimmy was Beatrice in New York, an insanely cool place in the West Village.

I want it to have a speakeasy vibe, a bit cool and different with an air of mystery about it – it’ll be a local crowd at first but eventually I imagine it as a destination.’

The site has a few claims to fame – launched by Everything But the Girl’s Ben Watt as Cherry Jam in the 90s, it hosted the Libertines’ first ever gig as well as nights such as Watt’s own Buzzin’ Fly and literary club night Bookslam. But recently it lost its way and closed. Now with new owners (street food entrepreneurs Thomas Tjong & Sidney Tsang) and a whole new look, the site is set for a revival.

Heathcote explains: ‘So when you walk in, there will be an Escher-style optical illusion on the staircase going down, a down-therabbit-hole sort of thing, and first you’ll walk through an area of wood paneling that looks sort of like a wardrobe, so you’re sort of going through the wardrobe into Narnia.

Then inside there are lots of cabinets full of random curiosities and filigree panels.

Vintage porn in the loos.’

Designer Kila Car-Ince describes her concept for the club as: ‘an indulgent

and decadent journey into the unconsciousness of curiousness. One enters through an enchanted wood and then to an unassuming Narnia-inspired threshold. Once inside, the Victorian décor and endearing artworks capture a unique timelessness, which rewards the viewer from every vantage point with exciting visuals and bespoke creations. Shimmy will excite and entertain even the most sceptical of visitors.’

Musically, Heathcote says: ‘It’s quite an eclectic music policy – we want to keep it open – it’ll be mostly dance-led and there will be ska, reggae, hiphop, rock and roll.

A bit like the décor, it’ll be a bit wacky, a bit off the wall, the idea is that you won’t really know what to expect.’ Carr adds: ‘We do pop-up events and we want to bring that special, intense production here, with cool people putting on nights and the right crowd. We’ll keep it alive and kicking. We’ve been around the scene a long time and we’re friends with lots of older people as well as the cool kids.’

And finally, why Shimmy? ‘I always liked the name. I saw it on a t shirt once and thought it would make a great name for a night,’ says Heathcote. Shimmy it is.

58 Porchester Road W2 weloveshimmy.com

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MY FITNESS STUDIO.indd 1

23/10/2013 09:53

ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTURE

LIVING IN NOTTING HELL

Rachel Johnson on the decline of the neighbourhood

M

y son came in from the communal garden. ‘Mum,’ he mumbled, through his tea-time cupcake with pink sprinkles, ‘do you know what Nat wants to be when he grows up?’ ‘A fireman,’ I returned. ‘Racing driver. Er, Chelsea striker.’ ‘No,’ Oliver sighed, as if I was, like, so on the wrong page when it came to the aspirations of nine-year-olds in Notting Hill in summer 2006. ‘A billionaire. And by the way,’ he added, airily, ‘his parents have already got him his own flat.’

Where I live, you may gather, it is becoming increasingly hard to do normal.

Whenever a house in W11 comes up for sale, it is paid for by millions made on Wall Street or in the City. More often than not, the family that moves in is

American or French, and comes complete with a fleet of cars, trained nannies, housekeepers, nutritionists, private tutors and personal trainers (and that’s just for the dog).

The dwindling number of English families are only in residence thanks to high-rolling husbands at the top of their game. (The roster of Notting Hill creatives –Richard Curtis, the screenwriter; Peter Bazalgette, the TV entrepreneur; John Pawson, the architect; Sebastian Faulks, the novelist; Charlotte Tilbury, the make-up artist; Eric Fellner, the film producer; and so on – is a roll call of household names.)

According to one friend, who has grimly ‘done the math’ (yes, she’s American, and married to a banker), annual household expenditure, just on

food, restaurants, education, services, holidays and staff, approaches £300,000 round here.

That figure, she claims, excludes entertaining and charity giving, so it is before present-buying, dinners and ultra-lavish birthday parties in exotic foreign climes.

My husband says that if you are living in an area you can’t afford to shop in, then it’s time to move. That was one option for us as our patch became overrun by people who divided into two socioeconomic groups – the haves and the have-yachts. But then, I reflected, why should I? It’s my home, and has been since 1978. And I’m doing everyone a big favour by staying put. Studies show that the most contented people are those who think they are richer than their 27

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ABSOLUTELY | A RTS & CULTURE

Our patch became overrun by people who divided into two socioeconomic groups – the haves and the have-yachts... neighbours. So, far from feeling like the poor cousin, I am entitled to regard my residence in Notting Hill as a form of unpaid community service.

For example, when I was pregnant with Oliver, a woman who lives in a huge wedding-cake mansion on the other side of the garden called to congratulate me. I took the call in my basement kitchen, in the shabby-

chic, late-Victorian three-and-a-halfbedroom house that was happily accommodating me and my husband, two older children and an au pair.

‘So, you’re moving, I take it,’ she stated. ‘Noooo,’ I replied. ‘Why would I be?’

There was an incredulous pause. ‘Because with all of you squished into such a tiny house,’ she informed me, ‘you’ll be like... council-house tenants, no?’ When I came

to the area, it was louche and poetic, and most of the terraced and stucco houses were divided into flats. A beatnik, multiethnic vibe prevailed. As teenagers, my three equally broke brothers and I had a pact. ‘If you don’t buy me something from Portobello Road,’ we would faithfully promise one another, ‘I won’t buy you anything, either.’ Back then, the dress code was patchwork skirts and open-toed sandals rather than Prada.

Westbourne Grove was lined with a parade of jumbly antiques shops, not, as it is now, a parade of supermodels (Laura Bailey, Elle Macpherson and Claudia Schiffer are all Notting Hill mummies) pushing buggies with their Green Machine smoothies in special cup-holders.

It was about eight years ago that the area took off like a Harrier jump jet. Partly, it was That Film, but, more important, it was the arrival of the men from Manhattan, drawn to the private garden squares and Central Line service to the City from Holland Park. A few lawyers and freelancers clung on, us among them, watching in astonishment as houses were gutted and redecorated, gutted and redecorated, and the cars got bigger and shinier and then smaller and greener, but always changed once a year. ‘My wife had an unlimited budget,’ I heard one husband boast of his refurb, ‘and she still exceeded it.’

So, now I’ve written a book about the decline of my neighbourhood and the lives of its new, high-maintenance residents. And whereas I once bitterly told myself how much easier life would be if I, too, were a leisured, groomed and peachy Notting Hill mummy with a super- rich banker husband, instead of a lowly scribe, now I think I’ve learnt that it’s just as hard and stressful being a Notting Hill mummy with a seven-figure income as it is doing normal. Just in a very different way, of course.

Extract taken from Notting Hill, Actually by Rachel Johnson, ebook published by Endeavour Press, kindle, £1.99, available at Amazon http://amzn.to/1elcgDZ

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SOLO EXHIBITIONS OF THE MUSE ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE PROGRAMME 2013 Muse at 269 Gallery,

Opening night Thursday 19th Sep 6-9pm www.coralchurchill.com

269 Portobello Road, London, W11 1LR Open. Thurs - Sun 12-6pm www.themuseat269.com

CORAL CHURCHILL 19 Sep - 6 Oct

Opening night Friday 11th Oct 6-9pm www.lunalee.kr

LUNA JUNGEUN LEE 10 - 27 Oct

Opening night Thursday 31st Oct 6-9pm www.mathewvieira.com

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STEPHANIE SMART 21 Nov - 8 Dec MUSE.indd 2

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SILK & CASHMERE.indd 1

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ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

FASHION NOTES

GOLDEN BROWN

ROSIE POSIE

Vivienne Westwood’s Gold Label visits medieval Europe this season with a focus on the colourful, the ethnic and the plain bizarre.

Thankfully, the actual pieces on offer at Matches are eminently more wearable. viviennewest wood.co.uk

West Londoner Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has celebrated a year in briefs with none other than… more briefs. She marked the first anniversary of her Rosie for Autograph collection for M&S (the brand’s fastest-selling line) with an AW13 update. The vintage aesthetic continues, with the supermodel drawing inspiration from preRaphaelite romanticism.

We’re sold on the silk Teddy in nude.£45, marksandspencer.com

MOD FOR IT

Jack Wills has pulled out all the stops for its Autumn collection.

Transitional pieces are inspired by our fair city, with more than a nod to the sixties. The smarter togs, heritage fabrics and rich tonal palette make for a perfect new-season workwear wardrobe and the slim-flit parka is the current object of our affections.

Alwyn Parka in Navy, £98.50, 184 Portobello Road W11; jackwills.com

LOAFER GENER ATION

Chatelles’ chic European style slippers come in 20 different colours with optional contrasting colour tassles or embroidered initials and Pippa Middleton is a fan. They are hand made in Portugal but you can find them at Ledbury Road’s Austique.

Mychatelles.com

MICROTREND... POM POMS

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2. HOUSE OF HOLLAND SWEATSHIRT WITH MARABOU ADORNMENT, £165; BROWNSFASHION.COM

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1. POM SNOOD, £28; ASOS.COM

3. KZENIYA PERSPEX AND POM POM CLUTCH, £250; MY-WARDROBE.COM 4. CLEO B FOX FUR POM POM SHOE CLIPS, £60; CLEOB.COM

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5. MARIO TESTINO FOR MATE SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL AND POM POM CLIP EARRINGS, £320; NET-A-PORTER.COM 6. TOFT BEEHIVE HAT, READY MADE £51/ KIT £21; THETOFTALPACASHOP.CO.UK

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We obsess about your metabolism, so you don't have to. Simply hand yourself over and do exactly what we say. For six weeks, or twelve. We'll be honest about what you need.

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FULL PAGE.indd 2

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ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

1

THE LOOK

2

Absolutely’s favourite catwalk trend

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Winter is all about the coat.

Here’s eight of the best 1. Josephine Coat, £349 hobbs.co.uk 2. Louche Heather Contrast Sleeve Mac £99; joythestore. com 3. Cédric Charlier Wool-Cashmere Coat in Yellow £931; stylebop.com 4. Diane Von Furstenberg Logan Double-Faced Wool Coat matchesfashion.com 5. Stella McCartney Wool Blend Jacket £1,145; net-a-porter.com 6. Michael Michael Kors Felted Wool-blend Melton Cape £345; net-a-porter.com 7. Burberry Brit Wool Minstead Duffle Coat in Camel £676; stylebop.com 8. Mary Katrantzou Saga Trees Ombre Jacquard Coat £1,944; matchesfashion.com

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25/10/2013 15:07

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ASC-FINAL.3.indd 2

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ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

GOLDEN GIRL Annette Bette Kellow, Portobellobased burlesque dancer and actor, has just published her first novel.

Absolutely catches up with her

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So you are an actor, dancer and now writer. How would you describe what you do?

I would say I’m a curator of stories in writing, acting and dance.

I find it exciting playing with different mediums, live, film or pen to paper.

I started off doing commercial modelling, and then moved into film, and more recently television for Channel 4’s new series of My Mad Fat Diary. While studying writing in New York I worked as a dancer. It was great to start out in another city as I made tons of mistakes on stage which no one in London got to see.

How did you get into burlesque?

Burlesque has been something I’ve dipped in and out of since I was a student, I’ve performed it in plays and tried to use the acting elements of it too, for instance in Michael Winterbottom’s new feature, The Look of Love which I worked on. Starting in New York, I lied to the manager of a theatre, who gave me a headline spot, where I was supposed to elegantly come out of giant Christmas present, but it fell over and broke, much to

the audience’s amusement. I have practiced a bit more since then. I love the glamour, but the backstage antics of burlesque are always funny – eating cold spaghetti on the floor and moaning about our split ends while wearing vintage showgirl costumes is probably not what audiences expect.

Describe your own style.

I love the classic golden era and am half Italian so appreciate all things la Dolce Vita. I’m obsessed with Riveria attire and the south of France, My icons include Audrey Hepburn, Gloria Vanderbilt, Grace Kelly and Molly Parkin. I buy most of my things from Portobello market or car boot sales. I find rummaging through other people’s things quite satisfying.

What inspired you to write your novel The Roses Grow Wild?

I was inspired by all the young people struggling in London, the creative darlings and the pure bonkers-ness of living in a fast city. It touches on subjects such as career hardships, wannabe divas, young females going off the rails and broken love.

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ABSOLUTELY | ST Y LE

Where do you live and why?

I have lived in Portobello for a few years now, It is the only place I have lived in London and I adore it. I lived in Trellick tower at first which was an absolute blast. It has its own community and everyone gossips in the lift; now I live just off Portobello Road. You never feel lonely here as there is always someone lovely to talk to on the market or in the local shops, it has such a community feel and spirit.

What is your most treasured possession?

My dog Dorothy. She’s a cross dachshund and yorkie and can melt anyone’s heart. I take her everywhere – she has even been on television and in a book.

The Roses Grow Wild by Annette Bette Kellow is published by Chipmunkapublishing.com

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ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

COUNTRY

Take Cover Whether in the country or the city, the Autumnal Hues of Fall pair effortlessly with the textural tweeds, soft yarns and weather-coated fabrics of this season’s outerwear collection www.maxstudio.com

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22/10/2013 22/10/2013 16:44 16:15

BRORA Celebrating its 20th year, Brora is renowned for luxury Scottish cashmere in unique colourways, produced at a 200-year-old mill in the Scottish Boarders.

The cashmere range in contemporary and classic styles is complemented by a boutique fashion range made from sumptuous silks, dappled tweeds, soft jerseys and velvety cord. Ideal presents for the whole family.

187 Westbourne Grove, W11 2SB, 020 7229 8623, brora.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY’S

CHRISTM AS COUNTDOWN All the best local gifts

BODYWORKS WEST BWW is the perfect place to relax and work out with room to breathe. Highly qualified staff, state-of-the-art equipment and an ongoing personal touch make the difference. The new pool and spa area is open, creating an oasis to rejuvenate your body and soul. Special membership gift: one month full membership including one personal training session, one pilates reformer class, two guest passes and one Neom three-wick candle, all for only £220.

bodyworkswest.co.uk 020 7229 2291

SILK & CASHMERE As the only brand in the world who focuses solely on the two most sensual fibers, Silk & Cashmere has been a favorite gift brand since its inception two decades ago. Boasting the largest pure cashmere collection available, the brand presents over 400 different cashmere garments for both men and women. Their timeless pure cashmere scarves (pictured) have always been amongst the brand’s most popular (and most treasured) gift option.

77Portobello Road, W11 2QB www.silkcashmere.co.uk 020 7018 2373

JIVITA AYURVEDA Mind-soothing pampering session at Jivita Ayurveda is just what you want to give to your loved one this Christmas. Sure to make an impression, a two-hour treatment gift package consists of a foot and body scrub, a full body massage and a face treatment.

They will also give £5 discount on gift card purchases over £50 of value.

89 Chamberlayne Rd, NW10 3ND, www. jivitaayurveda.com, 020 8964 4993

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Glass Ornament Tube - £19.99 Glass Ornament Bus - £19.99 Glass Ornament Taxi - £19.99 Moquette Heart Decoration – £9.99 Moquette Star Decoration – £9.99

Rye Armchair (Midland Red Coaches Leopard Print Moquette) - £1,000.00 London Zoo poster (760mms x 510 mms/20 x 30 inches) – £9.95 Stuffed Animals ‘Cordy Roys’ in Underground Line Colours - £16.95

LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Shop at London Transport Museum’s gift shop for Christmas. One of London’s most iconic museums, London Transport Museum is much loved by Londoners and visitors alike. Open daily in Covent Garden piazza or online at www.ltmuseumshop.co.uk

STRIP WAX BAR

NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES The Beauty Sleep Organic Spa Collection is the ultimate in luxurious bedtime pampering to help you unwind for a restful night’s sleep. Relax your mind and cocoon your body from head-to-toe with our award-winning Beauty Sleep to wake up to beautiful skin. The collection includes: • Beauty Sleep Concentrate (30ml) • Beauty Sleep Body Butter (50g) • Aromatic Foaming Bath (100ml) • Calming Aromatherapy candle (55g) £47.50 The set is available from the Notting Hill and Kensington stores.

Neal’s Yard Remedies Kensington 7a Church Street, W8 4LF Neal’s Yard Remedies Notting Hill 9 Elgin Crescent, W11 2JA

Indulge your giving nature this Christmas by treating someone (or yourself) with one of Strip’s stunning online gift certificates.

Choose from a selection of designs for all occasions that are redeemable across their full range of decedent waxing services, exquisite lingerie pieces and luxurious skincare products.

Buy online now and smooth over the hassle of giving a gift this Christmas.

112 Talbot Road, W11 1JR www.stripwaxbar.com, 020 7727 2754

SOPHIE HARLEY Why not pay a visit this Christmas to Sophie Harley’s gorgeous treasure trove in Notting Hill’s Westbourne Studios? Her beautiful new collection “Bonne Chance” fuses the elegance and fun of vintage playing cards with the powerful symbolism represented by each suit.

Indulge your inner fairytale and send a secret (or not so secret) signal to the one you love. www.sophieharley.com 122 Westbourne Studios, 242 Acklam Rd W10 5JJ info@sophieharley.com 020 7430 2070

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

                                                     

       

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        

        

15/05/2013 11:49

RE B EL E R BEL THE SPIRIT OF PUNK LIVES ON FOR AUTUMN/WINTER 13 Photographer: OLGAÇ BOZALP Stylist: CLEMENTINE KING

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WHITE MESH T-SHIRT, IRO, £206, IRO.FR BLACK COAT, IRO, £547, IRO.FR BLACK LACE UP SHOES, HUDSON, £120, HUDSONSHOES.COM BLACK TROUSERS, JAMES LAKELAND, £129, JAMESLAKELAND.NET

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25/10/2013 16:41

RED JACKET, A LA DISPOSITION, £785, ALADISPOSITIONSTORE.COM BLACK FOX TAIL WORN AS HAIRPIECE, JESSIE WESTERN, £39, 82B PORTOBELLO ROAD W11

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25/10/2013 16:42

LONG BLACK DRESS WITH LEATHER DETAIL, NATASHA ZINKO, £1300, NATASHAZINKO.COM

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BLACK LONG SLEEVE JUMPER, AUBADE, £118, WWW.AUBADESTORE.COM TARTAN T-SHIRT, RED OR DEAD, £32, WWW.BANKFASHION.CO.UK SILVER PLATED SPIKE EARRING, HANNAH WARNER, £105, WWW.HANNAHWARNER.COM

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CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHER: OLGAÇ BOZALP STYLIST: CLEMENTINE KING MAKE UP: MAKE UP: MICHELLE DACILLO USING NARS COSMETICS AND CAUDALÍE SKINCARE HAIR:JOHN MULLAN AT STONE HAIR STYLING ASSISTANT: ATESER ALDEMIR PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: LUCY RICHARDS, ERSIN ONUR

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HEADPIECE, A LA DISPOSITION, POA, ALADISPOSITIONSTORE.COM WHITE SHIRT, FRANCESCA MAROTTA, POA, FRANCESCAMAROTTA.COM BLACK DRESS WORN AS SKIRT, RED OR DEAD, £35, BANKFASHION.CO.UK BULLET BAR RING, LOVEBULLETS, £70, LOVEBULLETS.CO.UK STERLING SILVER RING WITH CHAIN AND SKULL DETAIL, HANNAH WARNER, £165, HANNAHWARNER.COM GOLD PLATED RING WITH CHAIN AND SKULL DETAIL, HANNAH WARNER, £170, HANNAHWARNER.COM

25/10/2013 16:42

November 14 - December 19th

STEPHANIE HOPPEN.indd 2

22/10/2013 11:01

Exclusive gifts at

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ltmuseumshop.co.uk LONDON TRANSPORT.indd 2

21/10/2013 14:26

ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

IN HER GENES

Pendle Harte discusses the dos and don’ts of denim with Made in Heaven’s Chloe Lonsdale 53

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MIH AW 2013

eans may be a wardrobe staple, and we all wear them, but as everybody knows, some jeans are better than others.

The good ones are fantastic: they feel great and improve with age, the bad ones sag and bag, while others are plain ugly, an instant fashion disaster. Finding the perfect pair of denims is one of the fashion world’s holy grails, and one of its main crusaders is Chloe Lonsdale, a woman whose life is dedicated to the pursuit of the perfect jean, the denim world’s manna from heaven. Her brand, aptly called Made in Heaven, revives a tradition of fashion-led denim and has grown over the past seven years to span around 25 different versions of the classic jean alongside a ready-to-wear collection of clothes to wear with jeans.

Lonsdale now runs her international jeans empire from a studio in Shepherds Bush, and her former photographic studio office is bright and airy. You wouldn’t think to meet her that she’s a mother of three children under the age of four. She looks too serene and unflustered – and you’d be even less likely to guess that she’s pregnant with her fourth child. And although she produces four collections a year and has just sent all her samples to Paris for fashion week, she sees denim as ‘on the periphery’ of the fashion industry. ‘I did a fashion degree at Saint Martins but I didn’t have a grand plan to be the next Galliano,’ she says. Her style is understated, a winning formula for creating clothes that women just really want to wear.

‘The Made in Heaven woman is a 30-40 year old independent woman who loves fashion but doesn’t want anything challenging or complex – she wants something that fits beautifully and feels great: I’m really clear now who our demographic is because I am it,’ she says. This Made in Heaven woman is certainly very west London – Lonsdale lives in W10, works in W6 and supplies lots of boutiques in the area, saying: ‘most of London’s fashion businesses are in east London, and we’ve got boutiques there, but we’re based west and even most of our ecommerce is in west London.’

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ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

Lonsdale was probably always destined for denim, though Made in Heaven wasn’t entirely her own idea.

Her father, Tony Lonsdale, was the man who brought jeans to the UK in the 1970s – his shop Jean Machine opened in King’s Road in 1971 and became a big chain with over 100 shops by the end of the decade. He was importing Lee, Levis and Wrangler from California and stocking a smaller brand made by a friend of his, Tony O’Gorman: Made in Heaven, launched in London in 1969. Chloe’s mother, denim model Chekkie Maskell (pictured here) met Lonsdale when she was modeling Made in Heaven, and when Chloe was born in 1979, O’Gorman became her godfather.

So if anyone’s got jeans in their genes, it’s Lonsdale. When she decided to relaunch the Made in Heaven label in 2005, she had spotted a gap in the market between denim and fashion, between vintage and modern, tailored and casual. ‘No denim brands, then or now, approach dressing in the way we do. Most of them are from California CHLOE LONSDALE

‘I’m really clear now who our demographic is because I am it’ and have a real jeans and t-shirts aesthetic, or they’re the more cutting edge, east coast, J Brand style sharp cuts.’ For Lonsdale, it’s about quality and longevity – ‘there’s nothing nicer than wearing a beautiful crisp white shirt in a great fabric that gets better every time you wash it, with a great pair of jeans.’

Lonsdale uses the phrase ‘great jeans’ a lot. Especially ‘great blue jeans’.

Her own staple wardrobe (aside from

having been pregnant ‘for the last four years’) is ‘a blue jean with a white shirt and an old leather jacket – change the shirt for the same model in black silk for the evening and add some heels – a good blue jean gives you carte blanche.’ But what makes this elusive ‘great jean’? Is it about comfort? Is it about making your bottom look good?

And what about fashion? Lonsdale has strong feelings about all of this.

Comfort – yes, but only up to a point. ‘A jean shouldn’t cut into you or rub, and it should feel soft against your skin, but feeling comfortable also means feeling confident.

It has to flatter you.

I’m not a massive advocate of super soft jeans because they go floppy and hang on every lump and bump.’

So, yes, it is about making your bottom look good. And fashion-wise, again, denim has rules of its own. ‘I think you should look away from what’s in fashion. A great blue jean that you feel great in transcends any fashion trend. There was a photo in French Vogue last month of Lauren Hutton and Stephanie Seymour in old Levis 501 mum jeans and that’s got more attitude and sex appeal than any low rise skinny jean ever.’ So the great jean is a personal thing, and defi nitely shape dependent. ‘Whatever fashion says, a curvier woman suits a jean with a bit more fabric at the hem to balance out the hip,’ she admits.

Anyway most jeans, in recent years, haven’t really been made out of denim at all. ‘Fabric technology has moved on from proper denim and I think that’s from people wanting to wear something that feels like their pyjamas,’ she says, disapprovingly. She is evangelical about proper denim – the weave, the wash, the shade, the texture. The reason why many fashion brands avoid producing it is that it’s an enormously complex industry, a multi-staged process with multiple opportunities for something to go wrong, and as Lonsdale admits, a lot of wastage. ‘Denim is a very organic fabric and every time the cotton’s dyed, the batch is different in shade and texture – and each time you cut it and wash it and make it, it shrinks 55

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ABSOLUTELY | PROFILE

MiH AW 2013

‘A great blue jean that you feel great in transcends any fashion trend’ differently. Trying to control all those variables requires so many different layers of checks and controls.’ So now 90% of her job is overseeing production.

The blue jean is having a moment now, when just a year ago jeans came in almost any colour but blue. To Lonsdale’s clear pleasure, the new jeans room at Selfridges is a sea of blue denim. So what’s next? Launching this month is a high-tech Bodycon jean (which won’t feel like your pyjamas) and coming up is a new range of denim outerwear and denim pieces that aren’t classic jeans, like dungarees, says Lonsdale, which may not be the obvious choice for her demographic, but as she says, you’ve got to keep relevant. Still, the skinny jean isn’t going away, with many clients coming in and buying six pairs – one in each shade – of the version that works best for them. So next time you’re buying a jean, think carefully: is it great? Is it The One? Mih-jeans.com Made in Heaven jeans are stocked at Merchant Archive, 19 Kensington Park Road W11

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ABSOLUTELY | PROF ILE

THIS WOMAN’S WORK

Bec Clarke Jeweller INTERVIEW BY LINDSAY BAKER PORTRAIT BY EMMA HARPIN

“I

’m an all-or-nothing person,” says Bec Clarke, 40-year-old founder of Astley Clarke jewellery, as we sit in the swishy surroundings of the company’s showroom.

It’s an approach that has paid off, it seems.

Clarke started the company from scratch on the floor of her Bayswater flat in 2007 – thanks to her singlemindedness, now it’s a leading online destination for fine and contemporary jewellery. She even received an MBE earlier this year for services to the jewellery industry.

She has always been obsessed with gemstones, she says (her favourites are Moonstone, Tourmaline, Paraiba and Labradorite), but could never find exactly the right combination of design and gems at the right price. Using her experience in e-commerce, astleyclarke.com was born. She grafted tirelessly in the early years, working late nights and weekends, rarely taking a break – and had two babies along the way.

“I’m not really the person to talk to about balance,” she says with a laugh.

Her passion is clear. Today Clarke sports a delicate “Icon” pendant, a gold disc, studded with tiny diamonds, and enthuses about new designs, such as the Ruthie couture collection, named after her mother. “The women in my family were fearless and powerful,” she says.

She remembers her Eastern-European grandmother Connie’s wonderful collection of coloured gemstones – there are now two Astley Clarke collections named after her. In fact her whole childhood growing up in Islington was spent surrounded by inspiring family – academics, scientists, politicians and mountaineers. Her paternal grandfather was Sir Cyril Astley Clarke, who was knighted for his pioneering work in genetics.

Astley Clarke has expanded fast. “We’ve all had to learn a lot,” she says. Originally a multi-brand online retailer, the business now focuses mainly on its own brand.

“We’re making a product now, it’s a different skill set.”

In the design studio next door to the showroom, she tells me, gemstones from all over the world are sourced, designs drafted, samples made, tiny details pored over.

She is deeply involved not just in the designs but the

way in which the brand is presented. “We are very British, we celebrate wit and we speak in a grownup way.” She dislikes the prevailing “OTT romantic” associations of much jewellery marketing, and says most of her clients are professional women who buy pieces for themselves. “Go precious everyday” is her motto – the jewellery is designed to wear with jeans or at work as much as evenings out. One of the first online luxury brands, the company now also offers their pieces offline too, at their showroom/boutique in W2 (which opens every Saturday until Christmas), and also in Harrods and Selfridges, where it is now one of the bestselling luxury jewellery brand.

So how has she stayed sane while growing a successful business and a young family simultaneously? “I don’t know if I have,” she says with a wry smile. Fortunately, her husband Chris, who owns his own IT business, is able to work flexibly, and her mother-in-law, who is also a doting grandmother, lives nearby.

Without them it would not have been possible, she says. Still, now that she has a team of 25 working for her, there are some moments of downtime in her hectic schedule.

Clarke and her family live “behind Westbourne Grove,” and she enjoys the “unpolished” feel of the area. “I like the mix of real and unreal. You can get a £50 box of chocolates from some luxurious boutique, but you can also go for Dim Sum on Queensway.” The family makes frequent visits to Hyde Park with their dog Como, and grabs a proper break when possible – usually heading for Umbria where they have recently acquired a farmhouse. “In London life is busy, noisy and full of life and we’re crammed into a twobedroom flat, so it’s good to go to Italy and have some space and peace. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Several years on from those early days of relentless graft, it seems Clarke finally has some semblance of balance in her life. So what has been her secret?

“Perseverance,” she says, firmly. And any advice for budding entrepreneurs? “Don’t give up. And don’t have the expectation that stuff will be handed to you, go out and get it.”

AstleyClarke.com

This jewellery is designed to wear with jeans or at work as much as evenings out

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ABSOLUTELY | HOME & GA RDEN

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PHOTO: OLIVIA JECZMYK/DESIGN HOUSE STOCKHOLM

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NORTHERN LIGHTS

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OF THE BEST

n a i v a n i d n a Sc inspirerds interio

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1. Plaster Deer Head with Antlers, £24; rockettstgeorge.co.uk 2. Wooden Star Garland with LED Fairy Lights by Parlane, £25; home-treats.co.uk 3. Wool Throw, Grey Check, £154; nordichouse.co.uk 4. Reversible Scandi burgundy cushion, £82; nutmegandsage.co.uk 5. LSA Light Collection Candle Bowl, £34; heals.co.uk 6. Hanna Francis Design OKSA Oak Wall Hook, £59; cloudberryliving.co.uk 7. Susking Longwool Sheepskin Ivory Rug, £120; heals.co.uk 8. Arabia Moomin Adventure Pitcher, £33; cloudberryliving.co.uk 61

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NEW IMAGES.indd 1

22/10/2013 13:04

ABSOLUTELY | HOME & GA RDEN

CORINTHIAN CAPITAL CHAIR

BY FORNASETTI The Corinthian capital is the most ornate of ancient Greek and Roman architecture and inspires this witty chairback by Piero Fornasetti, which uses original engravings.

Each chair is Limited Edition and handcrafted in the Atelier Fornasetti, to an exceptionally high standard. £2,250, 231 Westbourne Grove, W11 020 7727 5531 themesandvariations.com

GREY SKY WALLPAPER

BY ABIGAIL EDWARDS Inspired by the extreme weather, the Storm Clouds in grey sky depicts an ominous yet calming atmosphere with flashes of metallic copper, hand drawn and printed in Lancashire. £75 per 10m roll, 07946 455277 abigailedwards.com

OWL RUG

‘A wise old owl lived in an oak The more he saw the less he spoke...’

Duo Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, designers of the Olympic torch, are at the forefront of design – but they have a playful edge too. Their hand-knotted owl rug in Tibetan wool delight adults and kids alike. £700, 555 King’s Road, SW6 020 7384 0980 therugcompany.com

INTERIOR

INSPIRATIONS Tara Craig & Emma Storey discover classical mythology and literature in design

THE COMMODE DIRECTOIRE MEZERAY

BY MOISSONNIER

DORMOUSE ARTWORK

The Romans ate them and they are still a culinary delicacy in parts of the world, so adorn your walls with them – the humble dormouse. This tranquil sketch by artist Beatrice von Preussen uses drypoint technique, similar to etching, to create this adorable dormant creature. £75, Sleeping Mouse beatricevonpreussen.com

The sunny yellow Greco-Buddhist pattern breathes new life into the spirit of traditional cabinetry, from the established French makers, Moissonnier.

The union of historicism and avant-garde makes this lacquered beech wooden cabinet stand out as a centrepiece. £7,700 special edition, lacquered beech with brass handles, 01983 873691; moissonnier.com

HERCULES XIII UNIVERSAL TABLET STAND

Let Hercules take the weight off your world, or tablet, with his mighty muscles.

Cutting-edge Venus Design Studio’s classical sculptural stand will hold your tablet at any angle or height, fit for your home and office as well. £100, venus.io 63

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Going Underground 64

ALEX MICHAELIS.indd 64

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ABSOLUTELY | HOMES A ND GA RDENS

Designed by Michaelis Boyd Architects, this unusual family house may be almost invisible from the street, but inside there’s a vast space and even a pool. Absolutely take a look

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ABSOLUTELY | HOMES AND GARDENS

W

hen architect Alex Michaelis found this site 10 years ago, it was an empty piece of derelict land. Sandwiched between terraced houses, potential for planning permission seemed minimal. At least, that’s what most people thought. Michaelis, however, was undaunted by a six-foot restriction on building height and designed this vast family home to be partially underground and barely visible from the street. Built in 2004, this is a stunning contemporary house, created with sustainability at its heart.

The main house is set over two floors.The upper floor (at ground level) is open plan living and kitchen, a separate study area, and vast glazed doors opening to the garden. The five bedrooms, three bathrooms, utility room and swimming pool on the lower floor are accessed by stairs or a spectacular Corian slide.

Ingenious design means that light floods into the house through transparent walls, light wells and roof lights.

At eye-level as you come through the garden gate is the wildflower meadow that has been sown on the roof; aesthetic and insulating.

Accessed via the garden, or by a separate entrance on St Mark’s Road, is a separate one bedroom ground floor apartment. Plans have been drawn up for an underground extension that will join both properties. This is a project, subject to planning, for someone with an eye for the modern, and the urge to live somewhere unique.

This house is now on the market with Crayson, with a guide price of £5.5m for the freehold.

020 7221 1117; crayson.com

Specialists in refurbishment and extension of listed buildings. We offer the complete service: Architectural Design Planning Interior Design Building Construction Telephone us for a free consultation

020 7221 5966

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CRAWFORD AND GRAY.2.indd 1

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VELLOS DESIGNS.FINAL.indd 2

28/11/2012 18:19

Grate Expectations has been established and successfully running for over 25 years and remains a family business.

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LANDSCAPE GRATE EXPECTIONS.indd 1

17/01/2013 14:08

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ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

Knock knock Door furniture is the jewellery of a home

D

oor furniture is the jewellery of a home. It adds a subtle sparkle that can turn an average room design into a great one. Door and window furniture is available in a huge range of materials and a diverse range of finishes, each one able to add the last finishing touch to you grand design.

Traditional finishes like black iron, bronze and hammered iron available from makers such as Carlisle Brass are becoming very popular for their distressed looks that go so well with the industrial roof spaces so fashionable at this moment.

The other extreme in design is the super stylish stainless steel and crystal as exemplified by the Swarovski elements range from Freelan,whose tactile and elegant pieces add a touch chic design to any project.

Nu-Line Architectural Ironmongery 020 7727 7748 www.nu-line.net 69

NU LINE.indd 69

25/10/2013 16:45

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN & BESPOKE FURNITURE

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WIN A CLEMENTINE DOLL

CO M PE T I T I O N

ABSOLUTELY | K IDS

Clementine, the 1940s girl, joins Matilda and Amelia as the third Girl For All Time, Frances Cain’s successful family of historical dolls.

With authentic costumes

by Emmy-nominated (and Notting Hill-based)Caroline Harris, Blenheim Crescent’s Honeyjam is kindly offering one lucky reader a Clemtine doll (worth £89.99). For your chance to win, send answers to the following question to competitions@zest-media. com by 18 November.

What is the original family name of the that the A Girl for All Time family tree is based on? (Clues at www. agirlforalltime.com)

D U C K A N D COV E R

Little Duckling’s stylish new collection includes a delightful balloon print dress, star print tights and darling boys’ tank tops alongside Victorian-inspired cord dresses. little-duckling.co.uk

Absolutely TINIES How to keep them amused

SLEEP TIGHT

Caramel Baby and Child’s new sleep range comes in gorgeous nostalgic paisley prints and can be personally monogrammed too. caramel-shop.co.uk

STREET ART

Look out for this lovely Portobello illustration in Amy de la Haye’s wonderful second intallment of Clara Button, with illustrations

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02/10/2013 14:32

ABSOLUTELY | EDUCATION

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OPTING OUT? Amanda Constance reports on a growing backlash against A-Levels

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t hasn’t been a good summer for Michael Gove. The education secretary has already faced a surge of criticism over his reforms, but now some of our most elite private schools are dumping A-levels for an international alternative in protest at the changes.

During the summer, members of the Headmaster’s and Headmistress’ Conference (HMC) – which represents top private schools such as Eton, Harrow and Winchester – spoke out against the ‘huge gamble’ Gove was taking with A-level reform. From 2015, AS-levels are to be separated from full A-levels to form a qualification in their own right. In England, new linear A-levels where all assessment takes place at the end of two year courses will replace the modular system. The education secretary has said he wants to end the constant treadmill of exams and he expects the change to lead to a ‘revival of the art of deep thought’.

But many don’t agree. Andrew Grant, a former HMC chair and head of St Albans School, Hertfordshire, said he was concerned that Mr Gove was ‘throwing the baby out with the bathwater’ by de-coupling AS and A levels and said he was looking for alternatives for his school.

‘I know I am speaking for many of my colleagues in HMC when I say we will look for a way of continuing the AS level system,’ he told the TES. ‘We at St Albans School are looking very, very seriously at International A-levels because we feel there is a tremendous value in the feedback provided by AS levels at the halfway point.’

He isn’t the only one; many other independent heads were looking at making the switch. In all, 72 schools entered pupils for International A-levels this summer. The International Baccalaureate diploma is also becoming increasingly popular and many schools are turning to the Cambridge Pre-U, which is seen as a return to traditional, rigorous A-level study. Indeed, 99 British schools have pupils taking the Pre-U this year and 188 offer the IB. And it isn’t just A-levels. Last month it was revealed that almost 2,700 secondary schools now offer the International GCSE amid fears over falling standards in mainstream qualifications. It is believed that around six-in-ten state and private schools across the UK are teaching the course in at least one subject. Other independent schools such as Sevenoaks in Kent and Bedales in Hampshire are going a step further by devising their own in-house alternatives to GCSEs. So are private schools just opting out of Gove’s reforms? The Coalition has insisted that it is addressing major concerns over the standards, but Ed Elliott, head of The Perse School, Cambridge, said many schools were unwilling to wait for the reforms or risk them being reversed by a future Labour administration. ‘The Perse does not want to be part of a game of political ping pong,’ he explains.

‘By sitting international qualifications we can take a ‘wait and see’ approach to UK domestic exam reform, whilst ensuring our pupils benefit from studying proven, rigorous and internationally recognised qualifications free from political interference.’

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ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y

BEAUTY NOTES TE S TED

JOSH WOOD ATELIER

From the street, Josh Wood’s Notting Hill atelier doesn’t look like any sort of salon. Painted black and with no signage, it’s anonymous, though the waiting cars outside suggest that there’s something important here. Ring the doorbell and you’re ushered into an anteroom that still doesn’t seem like a salon – a sofa and some coffee table art books, but still no hair clues. It’s only when you’re taken through into the back that the salon reveals itself. Here the space is industrial and unfussy, with lush plants and long central tables that create a sense of communal experience. Andreas, doing my highlights, is tall and German and just back from Paris fashion week, where he has been on a hectic schedule dying models’ hair white. For me, he has other plans. To tone down my existing highlights that suddenly seem too blonde for autumn, he softens the shade to create a natural-looking, non-stripey but not too flat effect, working swiftly and efficiently before breezing off and leaving me under a heater. Then it’s time for a trim, though unusually, the stylist is scissor-shy, preferring to take a single inch off instead of the three I was braving, telling me winningly that my hair is a lovely length. So there I am, with lovely hair in a shinier, healthier version of my normal colour, being ushered back through the unusual reception space and outside to the waiting cars, none of them mine. I feel pretty special anyway.

Joshwoodcolour.com, 6 Lansdowne Mews W11

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Yves Saint Laurent’s autumn nail colours are spot on – murky shades of grey, beige and plum that mirror a smoky London palette. Look out for Gris Underground on nails near you. £18, yslbeauty.co.uk 79

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ABSOLUTELY | HEA LTH & BEAUT Y VALENTINO AW13 COUTURE

The make-up insider: Arabella Preston

Couture make-up

C

outure make-up - expensive and discrete - is all about letting the clothes do the talking.

At the Valentino Autumn 2013 Couture show, make-up supremo Pat McGrath created a cleverly understated look that allowed the fashion to take centre-stage.

Skin is everything in this look and it pays to prep and prime properly. I love the new Elemis Illuminating Flash Balm for a glowing, youthful sheen. Follow by applying a long-wearing satin finish foundation such as the fabulous new Givenchy Teint Couture. Use a flatheaded foundation brush and apply in a swirling motion from the centre of your face out. Pay particular attention to the nose & mouth but keep a light touch on your forehead unless you need it.

YSL’s cult Touch Eclat is essential for this look’s refined sheen. Use as a highlighter on the tops of your cheekbones, browbones, bridge of your nose and cupid’s bow. Dabbing and quickly blending a little of Chanel’s peachy creme blush in Revelation on the apples of your cheeks will stop you looking washed-out. I would also use this patted into your lips, perhaps blended with a little of your favourite lipbalm.

The eyes in this look are all about subtle enhancement. A single sweep of Chanel’s Illusion D’ombre in Convoitise or Emerveille (use your fingertips), followed by a single coat of brown mascara is all that is required.

Brush your brows up using Lancome’s clear brow gel and for authenticity’s sake finish with a spritz of Valentino’s sumptuous Assoluto OUD.

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28/10/2013 12:39

ABSOLUTELY | PROMOTION

Do you have the motivation to exercise this autumn?

Group Wellness Manager for The Hogarth and Park Club, Terry Rodham, gives Absolutely his expert advice on getting fit for life Have you ever had those times when motivation and drive are on downward spirals or simply not at the levels you’d like them to be?

Motivation is an extremely powerful tool in helping us to achieve our goals and overcome any barriers that may present themselves. After all, it is just so easy to not to go to the gym, not to go for a jog and not to take the ‘healthier’ diet option.

Motivation can come in many different forms and on many different levels. Of course, motivation can come from within, but having someone to motivate you can be a really big help. In an exercise class environment, having a qualified teacher who loves what they do can be motivating in itself. They provide guidance and reassurance so you feel confident that you know what you’re doing and are thereby achieving the results and getting the reward to keep you wanting more.

There is no question that when you turn up to an exercise class at the same time every week, the routine will help you to come back again and again. Having

it in your diary means you don’t book that time for anyone other than yourself.

Sharing that time with the same group of exercisers and teacher also makes for a pleasurable social experience, which is undoubtedly motivating.

Motivation is of course a science. What motivates one person can turn another off. For some of us, going to the gym is somewhere we want one-to-one attention, whereas for others it’s more motivating to be given personal space. To get this balance right for each member is a real challenge, but it is possible. In our Hogarth and Park Clubs we use the five hours of personal training time every new member receives in their first month to best understand what drives and motivates them. By providing one personal training session for every month of the membership, the relationship and trust develop and so, therefore, does the depth of motivation.

We start by conducting a Brief Motivational Interview. This gives us insight into the barriers a member might face that prevent them from coming to the club and

achieving their goals. Time pressures, travelling, family life and the lure of fun elsewhere are discussed.

If these are planned into a realistic exercise schedule, then we can help prevent those lapses in exercise and motivation that often leave members falling short of their exercise goals. New tools exist in leading clubs like ours, where exercise habits are programmed and tracked both within the club and outside. So if, for example, time pressures have limited a person’s exercise routine, these don’t have to result in not exercising at all. With the massive advancements in equipment technology and new communication tools available, members can be given exercise plans in and out of the club and exercise history can even be shared remotely.

But gyms are boring, you say. They shouldn’t be! At The Hogarth and Park Club, you have the opportunity to choose from an array of media channels and stay connected via Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and more from every single cardio station.

Variety is the spice of life and therefore also motivating. So how about looking into a mini-triathlon, a cycle sportive, duathlons , 10Ks, half-marathons or even a marathon. We have seasonal triathlons at The Park Club which are great fun while being a great challenge too. Members can sign up to morning boot camps where personal trainers will whip them into shape, should they choose to take up this type of challenge.

It is the relationships that you share with the personal trainers who become your mentors and friends, the class teachers and, of course, fellow members. All this combined with meeting your exercise goals that will really get you motivated.

If you are feeling demotivated to exercise but eat well, don’t forget that, aside from the many health and fitness benefits, excercising can actually be fun and rewarding. Keep moving and stay healthy.

For further info, please call The Hogarth Health Club on 020 8994 0500 or The Park Club on 020 8743 4321 thehogarth.co.uk 83

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28/10/2013 12:40

ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

FOODIE NOTES SAUCER OF SECRETS

RAOUL’S DELI

A new deli downstairs at Raoul’s in Talbot Road offers tasty salad lunchboxes to take away and eat in, plus an outside catering service to match that at the original Maida Vale Raoul’s. Don’t miss the Greek filo speciality Spanakopitta.

105-107 Talbot Road, W11; raoulsgourmet.com

Style blogger Liberty London Girl - aka Sacha Wilkins - is one of Clipper Tea’s new teatime hostesses A series of fundraising tea parties in aid of Contact the Elderly take place in November and December, with other hosts including florist Nikki Tibbles and gardener Rachel de Thame. Ticket-holders will be invited to devour luxurious treats and sample a range of Clipper teas in stunning surroundings, including Nikki’s very own period home, Rachel’s botanical haven, and LLG’s Regent’s Canal barge. A limited number of tickets, priced at £25 each, are on sale and 100% of the proceeds will go to Contact the Elderly, a worthwhile cause dedicated to tackling loneliness and social isolation among older people through organising monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties. clipper-teas.com/ afternoon-tea-parties

FINCH’S RETURNS

ROE DEAL

Now stocked at the Kensington Place Fish Shop is Carelian caviar, a high class sturgeon roe from sustainable, traceable sources in Finland. Le Gavroche and Nobu are serving it up, setting the tasty treat up for a revival. careliancaviar.com

On the corner of Elgin Crescent, the Duke of Wellington brings back its original name, Finch’s, in a makeover that gives it a stylish new upstairs dining room and a menu that spans cracking Sunday roasts and a signature Dorset lamb wellington, plus desserts of the gin-and-tonic-sorbet variety. Plus there are small plates and snacks as well as lunchtime sarnies in the pub downstairs too.

179 Portobello Road W11 020 7727 6727

RUMBLE AT THE DELI

The knives are out as a stable of talented young London chefs go headto-head for three rounds of no-holds-barred culinary one-upmanship at Tom’s Deli in Westbourne Grove as the peaceful cafe is transformed into an amphitheatre. The rules are simple. Every Wednesday to Saturday for the month of November, two guest chefs will battle it out to see who’s King of the Rings. Tickets £55; designmynight.com/london/rumble-at-the-deli 85

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28/10/2013 12:41

ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

HOW TO COOK Following the release of its new chefs’ bible, west London’s seminal cookery school Leiths shares a couple of new recipes with Absolutely

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

ZA’ATAR CRUSTED PRAWNS WITH A BULGHAR WHEAT AND HERB SALAD SERVES 4

20 raw prawns 2–3 tbsp olive oil 3–4 tbsp za’atar (see below) ½ tbsp plain flour Salt and freshly ground black pepper FOR THE SALAD 100g bulghar wheat 1 red onion 1 tbsp olive oil 1 pomegranate ½ cucumber ½ bunch of dill Bunch of flat-leaf parsley ¼ bunch of mint FOR THE DRESSING 1 lemon 1 orange 5 tbsp olive oil Pinch of ground sumac 1/2-1 tsp clear honey TO SERVE 1 lemon

A note on za’atar...

This Middle Eastern condiment is a mixture of sesame seeds, dried herbs and ground sumac (a lemony flavoured spice). To make your own, lightly toast 2 tbsp sesame seeds in a dry frying pan over a low to medium heat. Tip onto a plate and set aside to cool.

Put the cooled sesame seeds in a small food processor bowl with 50g sumac, 2 tbsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp dried oregano, ½ tbsp dried marjoram and 1 tsp coarse sea salt and pulse until ground to a coarse consistency. Za’atar is delicious as a dip for crudités or stirred through yoghurt to make a sauce for grilled meats. Makes 150–200g.

1 Peel the prawns, leaving the tail tip intact, and clean them, carefully removing the intestinal tract, then set aside in the fridge.

2 For the salad, prepare the bulghar wheat by putting in a small saucepan and adding enough water to come 3cm above the level of the wheat. Simmer, uncovered, over a low to medium heat until just tender, about 10 minutes. When tender, drain well and scatter over a tray lined with kitchen paper, then cover with kitchen paper to absorb the moisture.

3 Meanwhile, halve, peel and finely slice the onion. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over a low heat and add the onion. Cook gently until the onion is just starting to soften, then increase the heat and allow it to brown a little. Remove from the heat, drain the onion of excess oil and transfer to a large bowl. Heat the oven to 120°C/gas mark ..

4 Halve the pomegranate and extract the seeds by holding the halved pomegranate cut side down over a bowl and carefully hitting the pomegranate on the skin side with a rolling pin.

Cut the cucumber in half lengthways, deseed by scraping the length with a teaspoon, then finely dice. Pick the herbs into bite-sized sprigs or very coarsely chop. Add all these ingredients to the onion.

5 Once the bulghar wheat is dry, add it to the bowl. Cut the lemon into wedges and reserve for serving.

6 For the dressing, juice the lemon and orange. Mix 1 tbsp of each with the olive oil, sumac, honey and salt and pepper to taste.

Whisk to combine, then set aside.

7 Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in the frying pan over a medium heat. Mix the za’atar and flour with some salt and pepper in a large bowl.

Dry the prawns and add them to the bowl. Toss in the za’atar mix to coat.

8 Fry the prawns in batches until pink and the tails have curled, 3–4 minutes. Keep the cooked prawns warm in the low oven while you fry the rest, adding 1 tbsp oil to the pan for each batch.

9 Add the dressing to the salad and toss together. Divide the salad between 4 shallow bowls and arrange the prawns on top. Serve with the lemon wedges.

CHERRY CLAFOUTIS SERVES 4

350–400g sweet black cherries 4 tbsp Kirsch 1/2 vanilla pod 150ml milk 100ml double cream 4 eggs 120–140g caster sugar, to taste, plus extra to sprinkle 20g plain flour Pinch of salt 10g butter, to grease 1 Heat the oven to 180ºC/gas mark 4.

2 Remove the stones from the cherries using a cherry or olive stoner (as shown). Place the cherries in a bowl and sprinkle over the Kirsch.

3 Split the half vanilla pod lengthways and put it into a small saucepan with the milk and cream. Bring to scalding point (the temperature just below boiling point when small bubbles will appear on the surface, particularly at the edges, where it comes into contact with the saucepan), then remove the pan from the heat and set aside to infuse for at least 10 minutes.

4 Put the eggs and sugar into a medium bowl and whisk until light and creamy. Add the flour and salt and whisk again until smooth.

5 Remove the vanilla pod from the milk and scrape the seeds back into the milk. Strain the infused milk onto the egg mixture and whisk well.

6 Use the butter to grease a 1–1.25 litre ovenproof dish, 3–4cm deep, and sprinkle it with caster sugar. Scatter the cherries over the bottom of the dish, discarding the remaining Kirsch, then pour over the batter.

7 Cook in the middle of the oven for 50–60 minutes. It should be slightly risen and browning round the edges, but although set, the mixture will still be a little softer in the centre. Sprinkle with caster sugar and serve with a cherry compote or with clotted cream, or both.

Note: To make individual clafoutis, use four 15cm gratin dishes and bake for 20–25 minutes.

Leiths How To Cook is published by Quadrille, £30 h/b

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Ukai (oo-kaaee), our name, is inspired by the traditional method of river fishing practiced for some 1,300 years using Cormorant birds to catch sweetfish.

Spawned in 2006, Ukai has quickly become a favourite amongst sushi lovers in the London area, with its first outlet in trendy Portobello. Ukai offers a culturally rich Japanese experience in a contemporary setting.

Due to interest, many of its various Japanese inspired products including flower teas (which blossoms in front of your eyes), delicate incense and a variety of stylish tableware are now available to be purchased.

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Urban Meadow Café 150 Bayswater Road W2 020 7792 7066

T

his spacious new eaterie may be part of the fancy new Hilton Double Tree, the Bayswater Road hotel that has recently undergone a £10 million refurbishment to transform a nondescript site into a fully luxurious hotel, but it’s not designed to be a hotel restaurant. Located opposite the park and with its own entrance and large outdoor terrace, it’s aimed squarely at local people rather than hotel guests, and from outside you really wouldn’t know that it’s part of a hotel at all.

Design-wise, nothing is out of place in this heavily consistent blonde, Nordic-inspired space, all clean lines and carefully constructed urban rustic touches. Award-winning design agency Blacksheep, who created trademark looks for Jamie’s Italian, Nandos and the Cuckoo Club are behind it – and with lots of pot plants, including upside-down hanging orchids,

and leaf motifs everywhere, the theme is breezy, outdoorsy, organic. It’s an all-day dining experience, so you could come for breakfast, lunch or dinner, as well as tea and snacks, and the menu is appealingly varied. Dishes are generous and attractively served, in keeping with the carefully thought-out surroundings.

There’s a grazing (it is a meadow, after all) menu of small dishes for combining and sharing which includes a tasty and prettily arranged feta and mint salad with broad beans and tomatoes, as well as simple potted rabbit and a smoked mackerel salad, as well as a list of more substantial main courses, plus sandwiches and salads. For lunch, we loved a coronation chicken open sandwich, stylishly served and laced with dried apricots on delicious sourdough, while burgers come neatly arranged with chips in selfconsciously rustic enamel mugs. There’s an impressive cake display and we enjoyed a tasty bakewell-style rhubarb and almond tart; tea comes in clear glass teapots with clear glass cups and saucers, all the better to see the leaves in. Because leaves are a theme here, in this leafy spot that’s maybe a little over-designed but offers food that’s authentically good and easily a good addition to the area.

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A very jolly ho ho ho!

Come and have your party with us Delicious Christmas meals at lunch & dinner Drinks parties Private hire For enquiries & bookings please call or email us 55 Shirland road Maida vale W9 2JD 020 7266 9198 Events@thetruscottarms.com

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02/10/2013 17:53

Sarah Gilbert takes a journey through Khmer Culture in Cambodia

S

ipping on a ‘Femme Fatale’ – Jackie Kennedy’s favourite mix of champagne, crème de fraise sauvage and Cognac – in the Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor in Siem Reap, it was hard to believe that just a few hours earlier we’d been mud-spattered and sticky, scrambling through the Cambodian jungle exploring the remote remains of the lost city of Mahendraparvata, still swathed in vegetation.

The hotel opened its doors in 1932 and has kept its French colonial charm with its wrought-iron lift, the black and white marble floors in the lobby, the polished wood floors in the rooms and the elegant Khmer furniture, and updated them with contemporary comforts.

Siem Reap is the starting point for exploring the dazzling temples of Angkor – the world’s largest complex of sacred temples and a Unesco World Heritage site – and our days were skilfully planned around early starts, visiting the more popular temples minus the crowds and heat.

Angkor Wat is the jewel in the crown.

Built in the 12th century, it’s believed to be the world’s largest religious building, with one kilometre of bas-reliefs that tell tales from Hindu mythology and the Khmer Empire. But it’s not the only masterpiece: the immense walled city of Angkor Thom is home to the stunning Bayon, its 54 towers each topped with colossal heads depicting four faces of Buddha. Ta Prohm’s crumbling temples are wrapped in the ruthless embrace of strangler figs, and the elaborate carvings of the

diminutive Banteay Srei are unmissable.

One afternoon, renowned American photographer John McDermott, whose dramatic black and white prints of Angkor are for sale in his gallery at Raffles, took us behind the scenes at the atmospheric temple of Preah Khan, where we put his professional tips to good use as we watched the setting sun turn the temple walls to gold, with hardly another tourist in sight.

That evening, the apsaras – the dancers from the celestial Hindu court of Indra – stepped off the temple walls and came to life on the stage in Raffles’ garden, with their glittering costumes and graceful gestures. Khmer is the country’s original culture and can be traced back to the 9th century AD. But in the 1970s, the brutal regime of Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, as well as killing millions of Cambodians,

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ABSOLUTELY | FOOD & TR AV EL

A

Journey Through Khmer Culture starts from $3,187 (£2,073) per person based on two people sharing the tour.

This includes 5 nights’ accommodation in Landmark Rooms with Raffles Hotels & Resorts on a bed and breakfast basis; the legendary 24-hour Raffles Butler Service; all activity options and additional meals stated in the itinerary; entrance fees; English speaking local guide and transfers. A 5 Night Suite option (Balcony Suite in Raffles Hotel Le Royal and Personality Suite in Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor) would start from $4,230 (£2,752). To book, visit raffles.com.

Thai Airways International (THAI) flies twice daily to Bangkok leading to over 70 countries across five continents. A return flight to Cambodia starts from £808 including taxes and fuel surcharges. THAI constantly has special promotions so check out the website for the latest deals. Further information: 0844 561 0911; thaiairways.co.uk

tried to obliterate all traces its artistic, culinary and musical heritage.

The frenetic capital Phnom Penh, may be changing at breakneck speed but The Raffles Hotel Le Royal, built in the 1920s, remains a lemongrass-scented haven of colonial sophistication, its lush gardens and swimming pool, a peaceful oasis from the chaos of tuk-tuks, motorbikes and cars that choke the streets.

The hotel was once a safe haven for journalists during Pol Pot’s merciless regime. We visited Tuol Sleng, a former school that became the city’s main internment camp, where the cramped cells are still stained with blood. We talked with 72 year-old Bou Meng, one of the few remaining survivors. He was saved by his ability to paint and spent his days replicating a photograph of Pol Pot – his wife was not so lucky. Choeung Ek, 10 miles south of the city, is one of the notorious ‘Killing Fields’ where the Khmer Rouge butchered fellow Cambodians

before throwing their bodies into large pits. At its centre stands a 40 metre-high glass stupa, packed with skulls and bones as a testament to the horror.

After a gruesome reminder of the country’s darkest time, a visit to the charity PSE – Pour un Sourire d’Enfant – focussed on a brighter future. Here, we watched a heart-wrenching film about young children forced to forage on a city centre rubbish dump, before it was transformed into a school and training centre, giving even the most disadvantaged the chance of a better life. Indeed, some of the original children helped by PSE are now at university.

Since the demise of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodians have strived to reignite Khmer culture and Siem Reap is at the heart of the country’s burgeoning arts scene. Now chic boutiques and galleries stock the work of native and expat artists and designers, nurturing local talent and preserving traditional

crafts. At Theam’s House, Cambodian artist Lim Muy Theam updates traditional handicrafts with his neon-bright sculptures, while the French-owned Wa Gallery stocks funky homeware and jewellery from around the region. And a tuk-tuk ride from the centre, Artisans d’Angkor sells beautiful silk clothes, bags and soft furnishings made in its own onsite workshop.

Back at Raffles, the perfect antidote to a long, hot day pounding the pavements and exploring dusty temples was a trip to the spa for a relaxing massage and the traditional Khmer Herbal Body Wrap, which uses local ingredients, such as turmeric, galangal and lemongrass. Later, we indulged in a Khmer feast at the elegant Restaurant Le Grand, and raised a glass to a new chapter in Cambodia’s history.

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UK GETAWAY

THE FOLLY

Escape the everyday with a trip to the Folly, a luxury Cotswolds cottage exquisitely renovated by interiors specialists Matrushka THE HOTEL

With the Folly, Matrushka have created a rural bolthole to make you wonder why cities were ever invented. Originally built in the 16th century, the cottage offers a chic, cosy and wonderfully indulgent take on country living, with all the crooked romance of exposed beams and old stone plus a ton of luxury touches to ensure your stay is defined by contemporary comfort rather than agrarian privation. There’s an elegant salon, a huge kitchen with Aga and butcher’s block, a dining area with a table for ten, a utility room, a cloakroom, a snug (with 50-inch plasma screen and Bose surround sound) and a vestibule with wood-burning stove - plus all the books, movies and welly boots anyone could ever need.

guests in total, and with each room brilliantly designed around its own theme, no one will feel they’ve drawn the short straw. The master suite is under the attic eaves and features an adjoining bathroom with spectacular copper bath, while the remaining rooms range from the soothing Provencal rusticana of the Dorothy to the colourful, child-friendly charm of the Toad (complete with antique rocking horse). The furnishings and decor betray a masterful magpie’s eye for everything vintage and unique – you’ll probably find yourselves talking about the many beautiful ornaments and objets d’art long into the cosy Cotswold night.

The main house has four double bedrooms, while a separate garden studio contains another. That means bedspace for ten

THE AREA

The Folly is both easy to reach and pleasantly secluded, tucked away down a quiet lane on the fringe of the village of Didmarton. Within walking distance are a few neighbours, a teeny chapel and some lovely allotments teeming with raspberries and rhubarb. It’s all very Cotswolds in the best possible way, and the wider landscape continues the theme with its rolling pastures and grazing horses. The cottage is also just a few miles from Tetbury, which must be one of the nation’s best-preserved country towns – as well as being internationally renowned for its antiques shops and the rural seat of a certain Prince Charles.

THE DAMAGE

THE GARDEN

THE ROOM

stripy wooden deckchairs. By day, the garden is activity central; by night, it’s a sublime spot in which to sit and enjoy the stars.

Clamber from your car onto the sweeping gravel drive and the first thing you see is the grey stone and clinging ivy of the cottage itself; a few steps more and the garden is revealed. A lush lawn sweeps up to a near horizon shaded by a spectacular walnut tree complete with a swing, while a series of steps (plus a safely covered fishpond and cute hump bridge) lead down to a large paved terrace that’s perfect for entertaining. At the foot of the lawn is a full-sized tennis court and a couple of garden sheds, one of which contains tennis equipment, two mountain bikes and lots of

The Folly can be rented for a short break or by the week. Prices range from £1,335 for a two/ three night break at off-peak times to £5,000 for a week over Christmas (including seasonal decorations and food). See the website for full details plus information on a range of bespoke additional services, from massage and spa treatments to helicopter transfers.

Didmarton, GL9 1DY; thefollyluxurycottage.com

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LUXURY WAXING BOUTIQUE

WWW.STRIPWAXBAR.COM NOTTING HILL 020 7727 2754

CHELSEA 020 7590 0050

HARVEY NICHOLS, LIVERPOOL 0845 606 0342

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SOHO 020 7434 4222

CITY 020 7236 0058

HARVEY NICHOLS, BRISTOL 0117 916 8864

ESSEX 020 3544 9600

TOPSHOP, OXFORD CIRCUS 0844 488 6161

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NOVEMBER 2013

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

HOLLAND PARK, HOLLAND PARK W11 This extraordinary apartment is approximately 5,941 sq ft and has been completely refurbished to the most exacting of standards by the current owner.

Price on Application Share of Freehold Holland Park & Notting Hill I 020 7371 1111 l hollandpark@carterjonas.co.uk

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Stanley Crescent W11 £21,000,000 Built to designs by the well known architect Thomas Allom in circa 1850, this imposing 10-bedroom Grade II listed, double fronted house offers beautifully proportioned rooms, with stunning garden views from both the front and rear of the property. Of particular note is the spectacular raised ground floor drawing room and kitchen/family room, with magnificent ceiling heights and exceptional garden views. Offering direct access to Stanley Crescent Gardens and use of Ladbroke Square Gardens. Joint Sole Agents: Savills

PRIME SALES: 020 7313 2891 PrimeSales@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

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

Ensor Mews SW7 £5,950,000 A bright, beautifully refurbished house located on a sought after mews in the heart of South Kensington, just off the Old Brompton Road. The dramatic entertaining space includes a fabulous reception room on the ground floor, a second reception room with open plan kitchen/dining area on the lower floor, media room and a wine cellar. The bedroom accommodation includes a vaulted master suite served by a dressing room and shower room, two further bedrooms, bathroom and an integrated garage. Freehold. EPC=E.

PRIME SALES: 020 7313 2891 PrimeSales@marshandparsons.co.uk

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St Stephen’s Gardens W2 £2,300,000 These stunning three-bedroom split-level apartment with a lift and a balcony is located on a delightful, quiet garden square. The accommodation offers excellent lateral space on the first floor, comprising a wonderful reception/dining room with high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows leading out to a generous balcony, two double bedrooms and a bathroom. The second floor boasts the large master bedroom with en suite bathroom, a further bedroom and a study. Leasehold. Sole Agents.

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

Scampston Mews W10 £1,625,000 An incredible mews house providing a unique interior with stunning entertaining space. This exceptional property is ideal for those with a passion for entertaining with its double height reception room, complete with galleried sitting room and a stunning open plan kitchen. The impressive ground floor boasts a 25’ studio room with wooden floors and exposed brickwork Further accommodation includes a superb master bedroom with en suite shower room, a guest bedroom and a wet room. Freehold. Sole Agents.

NORTH KENSINGTON: 020 7313 8350 sales.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

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SALES

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

Royal Crescent Mews W11 £1,595,000 A spectacular three-bedroom house located in an attractive Holland Park mews, with a patio and separate, private garage. This stylishly, modern mews offers 1,356 sqft of superb entertaining space comprising an entrance hall, an open plan kitchen/reception with dining area, a master bedroom with en suite bathroom and dressing room, two further bedrooms, a family bathroom, patio and a private garage. Leasehold. EPC=F. Sole Agents.

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

St. Quintin Avenue W10 £1,495,000 This wonderfully unique property boasts a beautifully finished bespoke interior with a superb light and space throughout. Highlights include an impressive ground floor reception/dining room, a stunning fitted kitchen opening out to a patio garden and a delightful first floor drawing room. Further accommodation comprises a luxurious master bedroom suite with dressing room, a large second double bedroom and a bathroom. Freehold. EPC=E-. Joint Sole Agent.

NORTH KENSINGTON: 020 7313 8350 sales.nkn@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Pottery Lane W11 ÂŁ1,925 per week A stunning, recently refurbished house situated on the historic Pottery Lane. The property offers a spacious reception room, a modern kitchen/dining area, a large master bedroom with en suite bathroom, three further double bedrooms (one with en suite bathroom), a further guest bathroom and a private roof terrace with views of London.

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

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LETTINGS

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

Pembridge Crescent W11 ÂŁ850 per week This stunning garden flat, refurbished to the highest standards throughout, is situated on the ground floor of a period building The accommodation boasts an open-plan kitchen/reception area, a utility room, a separate study at the end of the garden, two double bedrooms both with good storage and two modern bathrooms. Pembridge Crescent is superbly located minutes from Notting Hill Gate and close to the shops, bars and restaurants of Portobello Road and Westbourne Grove. EPC=D. NOTTING HILL: 020 7313 6910 lets.not@marshandparsons.co.uk

Cromwell Crescent SW5 ÂŁ595 per week This stylish two-bedroom apartment is situated on the raised ground floor of a well maintained stucco fronted building, on a quiet street, ideally located for the amenities of Earls Court and Kensington. Presented in excellent condition throughout the property comprises a bright reception room with high ceilings and a shuttered bay window, a semi open plan kitchen, a master bedroom with bath tub and shower, a second double bedroom and a shower room.

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

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Offices throughout the UK

CARTERJONAS.CO.UK To view The Collection 2013/14, simply visit cjview.me/thecollection

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HOLLAND PARK HOLLAND PARK W11 This extraordinary apartment is approximately 5,941 sq ft and has been completely refurbished to the most exacting of standards by the current owner.

6 reception rooms n Kitchen n Master bedroom suite n 5 further bedroom suites, including 1 staff en suite bedroom n Gym n Cinema n Steam room with integrated shower and sound system n Spa n Plant room and large storage n Landscaped private garden enjoying full afternoon sun n Energy efficiency: Band D

PRICE ON APPLICATION THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 1111 gareth.jones@carterjonas.co.uk

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SIMPLY VISIT URL:

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Offices throughout the UK

CARTERJONAS.CO.UK To view The Collection 2013/14, simply visit cjview.me/thecollection

Bulle

Bullet point BAYSWATER

PRINCES SQUARE W2 A beautifully refurbished split-level duplex apartment located on the upper floor of this stucco fronted building.

Reception room/kitchen n 3 bedrooms Leasehold n Energy efficiency: Band F

n

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ2,000,000

2 bathrooms

n

Access to communal gardens

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT

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

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Bullet point

HOLLAND PARK ADDISON AVENUE W11 An architecturally designed terraced house approximately 2,045 sq ft, located on this sought-after tree lined avenue in the heart of Holland Park.

Reception room n Large open-plan kitchen/dining room n Master bedroom with dressing room and en suite bathroom n 2 further bedrooms n Roof terrace Energy efficiency: Band D

£1,750 PER WEEK*/£7,583.33 PER MONTH*

THIS PROPERTY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ON MOBILE OR DESKTOP SIMPLY VISIT URL:

Holland Park & Notting Hill 020 7371 3377 laurelin.taylor@carterjonas.co.uk

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*Rent excludes administration fees. Please contact your local branch for this information.

15/10/2013 14:21

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS Associate Directors at Chesterton Humberts, Notting Hill ED WOOLGAR & ENNAMAE ASSITER Photography: Rebecca Noonan

ED WOOLGAR

W

hen I was younger I wanted to be a chef or an architect… so I became an estate agent and now just enjoy cooking in my spare time! Originally, I was running an events and catering company and used to chef at weddings and corporate events. As the years went on, I grew tired of the unsociable hours and went to a graduate recruitment company who put me forward for a role as a corporate account manager.

Since then, I have always dealt with businesses and relocation agents, ensuring they come to the agency I am working for and are looked after. I now run the corporate, short lets and Notting Hill offices for Chesterton Humberts, and really enjoy dealing with both sides of the deal, which I feel gives me a real edge against the competition.

I’ve now been with Chesterton Humberts for six years, but have been in this new office for three months and I absolutely love the area. You can walk five minutes in any direction and come across a different type of restaurant, bar or shop; yet a real community spirit is retained that links the whole area together. The market in the area is always going to be strong due to its strong transport links, its ‘village’ feel, and the abundance of charming period properties. There are of course new builds and purpose built blocks, which cater for one and two bedroom apartments, and this again just adds to the eclectic feel.

Aside from working for Chesterton Humberts, I still run a catering company, so if you ever need canapés for a launch or a small wedding, I’m available for hire!

I

ENNAMAE ASSITER

n the pursuit of an acting career, I obtained an honours degree in acting and theatre studies at Rose Bruford drama school. Having worked as an actress for 12 years, I made the decision to change direction and enter the property world. The decision to venture into estate agency was based on a real interest in property and architecture. It was also very important for me to enter into a people based industry with variety, as I was accustomed to it in the acting world. I did not know at the time that estate agency would end up being my long-term career, but I quickly got hooked and thoroughly enjoyed it, the pleasure I get from helping people to realise their objectives has never subsided.

I’ve lived in the area for most of my life and am very passionate about it. Notting Hill has a diversity that sets it apart from many other prime locations in London. Its attractive architecture, multitude of shops, restaurants and bars, as well as the inimitable Portobello Road, make it a great place for locals and tourists alike.

The market in Notting Hill is incredibly buoyant, and with demand continuing to outstrip supply, many competitive scenarios have sprung up. Since we opened in July this year we have achieved excellent results in the area, with a number of record prices being agreed for our clients. I am excited about the future of Chesterton Humberts’ Notting Hill Branch, and our main focus at the present time is on building our business through reputation and results. Estate agency is a business where quite often life changing decisions are being made. It is our role to make it as smooth as possible for both sellers and buyers.

020 3040 8585 • chestertonhumberts.com

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ABSOLUTELY Property

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facebook.com/struttandparker twitter.com/struttandparker

struttandparker.com

Lansdowne Road, Notting Hill W11

A beautifully presented one bedroom, first floor flat located within an attractive, stucco fronted period building with access to the wonderful communal gardens.

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ÂŁ925,000 Share of Freehold

605 sq ft (56.2 sq m) Entrance hall | Drawing room | Kitchen | Bedroom | Bathroom | Balcony | Access to communal gardens | EPC rating: D

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 Nottinghill@struttandparker.com

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Bedford Gardens, Kensington W8

An outstanding and beautifully presented five bedroom family house occupying 2,776 sq ft with excellent entertaining space and a 54 ft long south-facing garden.

ÂŁ5,950,000 Freehold

2,776 sq ft (257 sq m) Entrance hall | Drawing room | Kitchen | Dining area | Family area | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Four further bedrooms | One further bathroom | Shower room | Cloakroom | South-facing garden

Kensington 020 7938 3666

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struttandparker.com

Logan Mews, Kensington W8

An enchanting mews house, quietly tucked away between Holland Park and Kensington High Street. The property boasts an excellent sized kitchen/ breakfast room and a reception room with wood flooring.

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ÂŁ1000 per week Furnished/Unfurnished

1,186 sq ft (110.18 sq m) Reception room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Two double bedrooms | Shower room | Decked roof terrace | Off street parking for 3 cars | EPC Rating: D

Kensington Lettings 020 7938 3866 kensington.lettings@struttandparker.com

23/10/2013 17:14

Lansdowne Road, Notting Hill W11

A well presented two bedroom apartment situated in a period conversation with direct access to one of the most sought after communal gardens in Notting Hill.

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ÂŁ995 per week Unfurnished

1,027 sq ft (95.5 sq m) Reception room | Kitchen | Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Access to communal gardens | EPC rating: D

Notting Hill Lettings 020 7221 1111 nottinghill.lettings@struttandparker.com

23/10/2013 17:14

You may know us from walking your dog, local charity events or simply recognise a familiar face.

Because many of our agents live where they work, they really understand what matters to buyers and sellers there. And because people know us, time and again we are able to sell and let properties more quickly and more profitably than anyone else.

BOB CROWLEY A S S O C I AT E D I R E C T O R

Bob has pounded the streets of Notting Hill as an estate agent for over twelve years and in that time has witnessed first-hand the rise and rise of Notting Hill. Without ever losing his hunger for closing the deal, Bob has also managed to become a bit of a connoisseur of the area’s cultural and gastronomic favourites; whether that’s the full english breakfast at Mike’s Cafe or Thai food and a glass of something cold at the Walmer Castle.

C H E L S E A 0 2 0 7 5 8 9 6 67 7 — K E N S I N G T O N 0 2 0 7 7 9 5 42 8 8 N O T T I N G H I L L 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 4 8 0 5 — L A D B R O K E G R O V E 0 2 0 7 2 2 1 0 3 3 0 — B R O O K G R E E N 0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1 W W W. B EC TIVE .CO.U K FIND US ON

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Size & Style W E S T B O U R N E PA R K R OA D N O T T I N G H I L L W 1 1

An outstanding Victorian town house conveniently located in central Notting Hill. The property has been sympathetically refurbished and extended by the current owners to include beautiful entertaining spaces, flexible accommodation, a private garden and an exceptional roof terrace with far reaching views across London.

5 B E D R O O M S , 3 B A T H R O O M S ( 1 E N S U I T E ) , 2 R E C E P T I O N R O O M S , K I T C H E N , D I N I N G R O O M , P L AY R O O M , UTILITY ROOM , CLOAKROOM , ROOF TERR ACE , GARDEN .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ4,250,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

2 70 S Q M / 2 ,9 07 S Q F T A P P R OX E N E R GY R AT I N G E

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Regency Splendor A D D I S O N AV E N U E H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 1

A stunning Regency-Style semi-detached family house with large garden in this premier Holland Park location. The property offers exceptional entertaining space including an expansive open plan living/ dining area leading to a charming patio and garden. The magnificent drawing room offers high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows with shutters, hardwood floors, a feature fireplace and French windows.

5 B E D R O O M S , 2 E N S U I T E B AT H R O O M S , 2 C LOA K R O O M S , 2 W E T R O O M S , D R AW I N G R O O M , S I T T I N G R O O M , D I N I N G R O O M , K I TC H E N , L AU N D RY R O O M , PAT I O, T E R R AC E , F R O N T A N D R E A R GA R D E N .

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F R E E H O L D ÂŁ 7, 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

2 42 S Q M / 2 , 6 0 0 S Q F T I N C LU D I N G E AV E S S TO R AG E E N E R GY R AT I N G F

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Stunning Interior Design PEMBRIDGE MEWS NOTTING HILL W11

An incredibly stylish and unique house in this premier Notting Hill mews. A stunning property that has been designed with meticulous attention to detail and offers an irresistible blend of period and contemporary. Exposed brickwork contrasts dramatically with the spectacular glass staircase, skylights and glass floor panels, which combine to ensure natural light flows throughout.

2 B E D R O O M S , E N S U I T E B AT H R O O M , E N S U I T E S H OW E R R O O M , C LOA K R O O M , R E C E P T I O N R O O M , S E CO N D R E C E P T I O N / M E D I A R O O M , K I T C H E N , D I N I N G R O O M , S T U DY, L I B R A R Y, R O O F T E R R A C E .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ3,000,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

1 58 . 2 SQ M / 1 ,703 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G D

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Classic Family House NEWTON ROAD NOTTING HILL W2

This impressive low build period house has everything one could ever want in a family home; spacious entertaining rooms, big family kitchen, dining room and plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms all spread over only three light-filled floors with lovely private garden, garage and off street parking for up to three cars.

6 B E D R O O M S , 2 B AT H R O O M S , S H OW E R R O O M , 2 R E C E P T I O N R O O M S , K I TC H E N , D I N I N G R O O M , 2 S T U D I E S , U T I L I T Y R O O M , GA R AG E , F R O N T A N D R E A R GA R D E N S , O F F S T R E E T PA R K I N G .

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FREEHOLD ÂŁ5,000,000 BOB CROWLEY BC@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 4805

255 SQ M / 2 ,755 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G E

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Park Life K I N G S WO O D AV E N U E Q U E E N ’ S PA R K N W 6

An incredible, first of its kind renovation on Kingswood Avenue. No corners have been cut in bringing this house into the 21st century. This is one of the widest houses on the street and the newly added lower ground floor provides exceptional living spaces that could be used for a family room or wine cellar. Local shops are literally on your doorstep as too are all the facilities of the park.

6 B E D R O O M S , 4 B AT H R O O M S ( 3 E N S U I T E ) , R E C E P T I O N R O O M , O P E N P L A N K I TC H E N / D I N I N G R O O M , L AU N D RY R O O M , GA R D E N , O F F S T R E E T PA R K I N G .

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FREEHOLD £4,250,000 M AT T H E W M A R C H A N T MM@BECTIVE.CO.UK LADBROKE GROVE OFFICE 020 7221 0330

4 07 SQ M / 4 , 3 81 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G E

23/10/2013 10:22 22/10/2013 16:27

CHELSEA 0 20 75 89 6 67 7 KENSINGTON 020 7795 4288 NOTTING HILL 020 7221 4805 LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Once in a Lifetime S T Q U I N T I N AV E N U E N O R T H K E N S I N GTO N W 1 0

Once in a while a house comes along that sets new standards. This five storey Victorian red brick property is such a home. Wide and spacious, the house offers fantastic family accommodation. Of particular note is the beautiful glass fronted wine store and the cinema room with surround sound and 3D projector. There is also separate staff accommodation.

7 B E D R O O M S , 2 B AT H R O O M S ( 1 E N S U I T E ) , 2 S H OW E R R O O M S ( 1 E N S U I T E ) , WA L K I N WA R D R O B E , C L O A K R O O M , D O U B L E R E C E P T I O N R O O M , S T U D Y , F A M I LY R O O M , C I N E M A R O O M , K I T C H E N , U T I L I T Y ROOM , CELLAR , GARDEN.

F R E E H O L D ÂŁ 7, 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 M AT T H E W M A R C H A N T MM@BECTIVE.CO.UK LADBROKE GROVE OFFICE 020 7221 0330

502 SQ M / 5,4 05 SQ FT APPROX E N E R GY R AT I N G E JSA KNIGHT FRANK 020 7229 0229

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23/10/2013 10:22 22/10/2013 16:28

FIND US ON

Communal Garden House BLENHEIM CRESCENT NOTTING HILL W11

FURNISHED £6, 50 0 PER WEEK (SHORT LET)

A beautifully presented family house with direct access to the sought after communal gardens to the rear of the property. The house boasts an elegant raised ground reception room and kitchen with hard wood flooring, high ceilings and a feature fireplace. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), shower room, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, utility room, private garden, access to communal gardens. Energy Rating E.

K A T E F LY N N KF@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

Ready to Go P OT T E RY L A N E H O L L A N D PA R K W 1 1

U N F U R N I S H E D £ 1 ,9 2 5 P E R W E E K

A beautifully presented Victorian terraced house offering a wealth of reception space. The property has been extensively refurbished and modernised throughout with hard wood flooring in the reception room. 4 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms (1 en suite), en suite bathroom, reception room, kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom, garden, roof terrace. EPC Rating C.

K A T E F LY N N

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KF@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

23/10/2013 10:22 22/10/2013 16:28

CHELSEA 0 20 75 89 6 67 7 KENSINGTON 020 7795 4288 NOTTING HILL 020 7221 4805 LADBROKE GROVE 020 7221 0330 BROOK GREEN

FIND US ON

0 2 0 76 0 3 51 8 1

Stunning Apartment PA L AC E CO U R T N OT T I N G H I L L W 2

FURNISHED £995 PER WEEK

A fantastic opportunity to rent this beautiful contemporary flat on the raised ground floor of an impressive mansion block. The property boasts an open plan living area with double height ceilings and hard wood flooring. Palace Court intersects with Notting Hill Gate, ideal for those who need easy access for the Central line. Bedroom, mezzanine, 2 shower rooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen. EPC Rating E.

K A T E F LY N N KF@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

Prime Notting Hill L ANSDOWNE ROAD NOTTING HILL W11

UNFURNISHED £950 PER WEEK

A substantial garden flat benefitting from its own private entrance. The property boasts hard wood flooring throughout, a contemporary eat-in kitchen and direct access onto the stunning and sought after communal gardens. 2 bedrooms, en suite bathroom, en suite shower room, reception room, kitchen, cloakroom, garden, direct access to communal gardens. Energy Rating E.

K A T E F LY N N

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KF@BECTIVE.CO.UK NOTTING HILL OFFICE 020 7221 5388

23/10/2013 10:23 22/10/2013 16:37

KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET, W8 A contemporary and spacious apartment with air conditioning situated between the amenities of Portobello, Notting Hill Gate and Kensington. Approx. 980 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), open-plan kitchen, utility, entrance hall, lift, storage, garage.

Lease to 3009 Guide Price ÂŁ1,650,000

VICTORIA GROVE MEWS, W2 A lovely 2 storey house presented in good decorative condition, with well proportioned living accommodation.

Notting Hill Gate is close by (Central, Circle and District lines). RBK&C. Approx. 891 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, attic storage.

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ1,475,000

johndwood.co.uk

KENSINGTON 020 7908 1100 kensington@johndwood.co.uk Our offices in RBK&C:

JDW_NOV.indd Absolutely Notting2Hill Nov13.indd 1

Chelsea

South Kensington

Kensington

Holland Park

Ladbroke Grove

Sales: 020 7887 2311 Lettings: 020 7352 8111

Sales: 020 7835 0000 Lettings: 020 7835 0044

Sales: 020 7908 1100 Lettings: 020 7908 1100

Sales: 020 7727 2233 Lettings: 020 7727 2233

Sales: 020 7229 2356 Lettings: 020 7229 2356

18/10/2013 17/10/2013 10:46 14:29

BARK PLACE, W2 Currently arranged as a 3 bedroom house on the ground and upper floors with a self-contained flat on the garden floor which could be incorporated to make a wonderful family house. Located close to the open spaces of Kensington Gardens and the facilities of Notting Hill Gate. Approx. 2,122 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, 2 kitchens, utility room, terrace, garden.

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ2,990,000

johndwood.co.uk

KENSINGTON 020 7908 1100 kensington@johndwood.co.uk Our offices in RBK&C:

JDW_NOV.indd Absolutely Notting3Hill Nov13.indd 2

Chelsea

South Kensington

Kensington

Holland Park

Ladbroke Grove

Sales: 020 7887 2311 Lettings: 020 7352 8111

Sales: 020 7835 0000 Lettings: 020 7835 0044

Sales: 020 7908 1100 Lettings: 020 7908 1100

Sales: 020 7727 2233 Lettings: 020 7727 2233

Sales: 020 7229 2356 Lettings: 020 7229 2356

18/10/2013 17/10/2013 10:46 14:29

LANCASTER ROAD, W11 An incredibly impressive family house which has been exquisitely refurbished and maintained.

Approx. 2,986 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2/3 reception rooms.

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ4,500,000

BRACEWELL ROAD, W10 A beautifully refurbished and well presented 3 storey Victorian mid-terraced house offering versatile accommodation and a west facing garden. Approx. 2,000 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms.

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ1,700,000

johndwood.co.uk

LADBROKE GROVE 020 7229 2356 ladbrokegrove@johndwood.co.uk Our offices in RBK&C:

JDW_NOV.indd Absolutely Notting4Hill Nov13.indd 3

Chelsea

South Kensington

Kensington

Holland Park

Ladbroke Grove

Sales: 020 7887 2311 Lettings: 020 7352 8111

Sales: 020 7835 0000 Lettings: 020 7835 0044

Sales: 020 7908 1100 Lettings: 020 7908 1100

Sales: 020 7727 2233 Lettings: 020 7727 2233

Sales: 020 7229 2356 Lettings: 020 7229 2356

18/10/2013 17/10/2013 10:46 14:30

ADDISON ROAD, W14 A tremendous example of a Victorian Grade II Listed villa, with a south-west facing garden.

Presented in excellent decorative order and ready for immediate occupation. Approx. 2,955 sq ft.

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, front and rear garden.

Freehold Guide Price ÂŁ4,950,000

HOLLAND PARK AVENUE, W11 A very attractive apartment on the 2nd floor of this handsome Victorian conversion, close to Holland Park Underground station. Approx. 901 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, balcony.

Freehold Share Guide Price ÂŁ1,075,000

johndwood.co.uk

HOLLAND PARK 020 7727 2233 hollandpark@johndwood.co.uk Our offices in RBK&C:

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Chelsea

South Kensington

Kensington

Holland Park

Ladbroke Grove

Sales: 020 7887 2311 Lettings: 020 7352 8111

Sales: 020 7835 0000 Lettings: 020 7835 0044

Sales: 020 7908 1100 Lettings: 020 7908 1100

Sales: 020 7727 2233 Lettings: 020 7727 2233

Sales: 020 7229 2356 Lettings: 020 7229 2356

18/10/2013 17/10/2013 10:46 14:30

ABSOLUTELY Property

Property News

5

minutes with...

Maddie Lewington Associate at Douglas & Gordon � 020 7727 7777 • douglasandgordon.co.uk

Princes Square

HOUSE HUNTING 1. Property I’d most like on my books and why?

Although not in my patch, the Brompton Road tube station, just to have a look round and appreciate the architecture and its amazing history. What a story that building could tell.

2. Best place to invest?

Although I am biased, I would still say that the best place to invest is the West side of London and in particular Bayswater, Paddington and the Hyde Park Estate as it still offers good growth potential.

3. The most interesting property I have been involved in is...

The property that interested me the most was one on Radnor Mews; it was all that remained of the original houses that were destroyed during the bombings in World War II.

John White

Head of Residential Sales, Carter Jonas

4. The toughest sale and why?

A top floor split level apartment on Hereford Road, the previous vendor did not have all the correct licenses for work that he had done to the property. We had to keep buyer and seller motivated over a few months whilst retrospective permissions were sought.

5. Finest property showcase...

Princes Square, W2: A beautifully refurbished three double bedroom split level duplex located on the upper floors of this stucco fronted building. The flat further benefits from plenty of natural light in every room and overlooks the private communal garden square.

Asking price, £2,000,000.

� 020 7402 1552 • carterjonas.co.uk

1. What makes Douglas & Gordon the go-to-agent in Notting Hill?

We are an enthusiastic, forward thinking, dynamic agency with relentless passion for what we do, where the client always comes first.

We give honest expert advice and often achieve in excess of the asking price so everyone is happy.

2. What do you love about the area?

Every day is different, the people, the properties, but also the electric atmosphere. I love the fact you can wander down Portobello Road and see the same friendly fruit sellers and the flower stall which I regularly visit and everyone is (usually) smiling.

3. What is your company ethos?

As a company, we find relationships are key to our business. We strive to be the most trusted and successful estate agency in London, never compromising our personal and outstanding service.

4. What can we expect for the rest of 2013?

It would appear that we are still short of stock and that doesn’t seem to be changing. The buyers keep registering but tempting people to sell is the tricky part. Now is such a great time to achieve strong prices. Strike while the iron is hot.

128 2 News_NottHill_Nov.indd 128

23/10/2013 17:02

ABSOLUTELY Property

Buoyant Bayswater Market

R

ental prices in Bayswater have remained strong and we’ve seen a high number of tenants, largely as a result of corporate relocations, coming into Central London. The area caters to a varied demographic, from young professionals to families and offers a good selection of property styles including white stucco fronted Victorian terraces, modern townhouses, converted mews houses and contemporary new builds. Prices vary considerably depending on the type of property and specifications, but a new build two bed apartment in Central Paddington typically achieves in the region of £850 per week, while a three bedroom apartment on Cleveland Square normally rents at around

Crossrail fuels market growth

T

he market is still very much a seller’s market, with short supply coupled with favourable foreign exchange rates, safer political and legal and economic environments all fuelling an unabated demand and continued level of buoyancy. One of the key drivers is the Government’s investment in infrastructure, which buyers see as an opportunity to capitalise on medium-to-long-term capital appreciation. It will be another 12 to 18 months before we see a real influx of buyers coming to the market. Around Notting Hill, there is much by way of residential development, with some of the major commercial developers such as Derwent moving into the area. The former Tesco site on Queensway is also under development and a number of others

Jonathan McCormack Lettings Manager, Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, Bayswater

£1,100 per week.

Each year around Autumn Bayswater traditionally sees a resurgence of wealthy international students, who are attracted to the area for its close proximity to some of London’s prominent academic institutions, like the University of Westminster or the London Business School. Studio flats or one to two bed flats, which tend to be the most sought after among the student market, typically range in price between £350 to £550 per week. � 020 7563 5090 • kfh.co.uk

Nicholas McDermott

� 020 7795 4288; bective.co.uk

Sales Manager, Notting Hill, Beaney Pearce

Sensible pricing gets you more in the end With the wealth of information available online, buyers tend to either be well-educated and researched, or in central London have the benefit of working with buying agents with, one would hope, years of experience in the local market. The model of pricing properties sensibly and sensitively has been proven many times, and again this week; two properties priced on the sensible side of things have generated great interest, with one property going under offer within 48 hours at 5% over asking price, while other comparable but ambitiously priced properties in the same building remain on the market. � 020 7590 9500 • beaneypearce.co.uk

Sales Manager, Home House Estates, Westbourne Grove

along Westbourne Grove will also be coming to fruition – all aiming to get ready for the emergence of Crossrail.

For this reason many of the smaller developers and applicants alike are also seeking to take on their own personal refurbishment and redevelopment projects in order to capitalise on the anticipated rise in the market. We have taken on some good instructions in the short time we have been open and have now agreed sales on a large portion of them, so we would be delighted to hear from you going forward. � 020 3747 4999 • homehouseestates.co.uk

Bective welcomes Francesca Fortunati, the new Lettings Manager of the Kensington branch Bective Leslie Marsh is proud to introduce Francesca Fortunati as the new Lettings Manager of the Kensington branch. With her proven track record, she will bring her expertise, integrity and Italian charm to the table. Having worked in the industry for the past six years, it is her personal approach and passion for Kensington property that will enable her to successfully lead the lettings team.

Richard King

Mark Wellington Manager of Benham & Reeves Letting Residential, City, Canary Wharf & Greenwich

Soaring demand has prompted Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings to open a new office in Greenwich. It is the eleventh office for London’s largest independent letting agents and has already seen a number of new tenants registering within days of opening.

“We’ve been handling property rentals in Greenwich since 2008. Demand has been overwhelming, prompting the decision to open a dedicated office here in Greenwich Peninsula where we are well placed to offer a full lettings and management service to landlords and tenants,” comments Mark Wellington, who manages the company’s City and Canary Wharf offices and also heads the Greenwich team.

“New residential developments springing up here are attracting huge interest amongst tenants.

It’s just a short commute to Canary Wharf yet rental prices are lower so tenants are pouring into the area, a trend we expect to continue.” � 020 3440 7010 • brlets.co.uk

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23/10/2013 17:03

Great offers never go out of fashion.

Even in Bayswater.

5

%

letting fee.

Introducing our new lettings service in Bayswater.

To mark the launch of our new lettings service at our Bayswater branch, landlords will benefit from an exclusive offer of a 5% letting fee for a limited time.

If you are thinking of letting and would like a no obligation valuation or more information about our offer, contact our Bayswater branch today.

KFH Bayswater 23 Leinster Terrace, London W2 3ET Lettings 020 7563 5090 Email lbw@kfh.co.uk

Terms and conditions: For full offer terms and conditions visit www.kfh.co.uk/offerterms

KFH_NH_NOV.indd 2 11.13 KFH Nottinghill.indd 1

17:32 15/10/2013 15:57

Portsea Place, Hyde Park, W2 £899,995 Leasehold Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

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This stunning two bedroom apartment boasts a high quality design, bright and airy triple aspect, handsome wood floors and a south facing balcony overlooking Connaught Square. Portsea Hall is an attractive Art Deco building located only a short walk from Hyde Park, Oxford Street and Paddington station.

• • • • • • • •

Two bedrooms South facing reception Master bedroom suite Second bedroom Beautiful modern kitchen South facing balcony Porter and lifts Moments to Hyde Park

15/10/2013 10:38 17:32 08/10/2013

Westbourne Terrace Road, Bayswater, W2 £650,000 Leasehold Bayswater 020 7724 1222 Email sbw@kfh.co.uk

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This fantastic one bedroom flat occupies the first floor of this white stucco villa and boasts fine features throughout including high ceilings, french windows and a balcony.

The property is located close to Regent’s Canal and Warwick Avenue underground station.

• • • • • • • • •

First floor conversion Spacious bedroom Generous reception room Fitted kitchen French windows Balcony Residents parking Close to Regent’s Canal EPC rating C

15/10/2013 10:39 17:32 08/10/2013

Princedale Road, Holland Park, W11 £3,000,000 Freehold Holland Park 020 3542 2111 Email shp@kfh.co.uk

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An elegant four double bedroom house featuring a beautiful wide reception room, superb kitchen/ breakfast room and a large decked roof terrace.

• • • • • • • • •

Four double bedrooms Wide reception room Excellent kitchen Decked roof terrace Quiet residential street Near Holland Park Excellent schools close by Close to underground station EPC rating D

15/10/2013 09:39 17:32 11/10/2013

St James’s Gardens, Holland Park, W11 £2,395,000 Leasehold Holland Park 020 3542 2111 Email shp@kfh.co.uk

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A beautiful three double bedroom maisonette offering high ceilings, large windows and a glorious 31ft garden laid to lawn. Situated on a desirable garden square close to the local shops, cafés and restaurants.

• • • • • • • •

Three double bedrooms Three bathrooms High ceilings Reception room Kitchen/dining room 31ft private garden Access to communal garden Close to underground

15/10/2013 10:40 17:33 08/10/2013

Walmer Road, Notting Hill, W11 £9,100 pcm Unfurnished Holland Park 020 3542 2120 Email lhp@kfh.co.uk

KFH_NH_NOV.indd 7 11.13 KFH Nottinghill.indd 6

This newly refurbished four bedroom detached house offers beautiful front and rear gardens and is ideally located for the amenities and transport links of Holland Park Avenue.

• • • • • • • •

Four bedroom detached house Newly refurbished Two bathrooms Large reception room Bright bedrooms Fireplace in each room Private front and rear gardens EPC rating G

15/10/2013 10:41 17:33 08/10/2013

Fulton Mews, Bayswater, W2 £7,584 pcm Furnished Bayswater 020 7563 5090 Email lbw@kfh.co.uk

11.13 KFH Nottinghill.indd 7 KFH_NH_NOV.indd 8

A unique four double bedroom Victorian mews house which has recently been refurbished to a high standard. This property is ideally located close to Hyde Park and Bayswater, Queensway and Paddington stations.

• • • • • • • •

Four double bedrooms Three en suite bathrooms Two reception rooms Newly refurbished Large roof terrace Off street parking for two cars Close to Hyde Park EPC rating D

14/10/2013 15/10/2013 15:01 17:34

Hyde Park Square, W2 ÂŁ2,250 per week A magnificent penthouse apartment in an elegant period building just moments from Hyde Park and less than five minutes walking distance from Paddington Station. The property benefits from the most spectacular open-plan entertaining space and views south towards the park. The flat benefits from direct lift access.

EPC=D. Two reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, four bedrooms, two bathrooms and lift. Unfurnished. Sole Agents

020 7402 0070 jared @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kris Sandhu Associate Director

The Bayswater property market is booming and we have just opened our 4th office on Craven Terrace. If you have a property to sell or rent anywhere in Bayswater, Hyde Park, Paddington or the surrounding areas then pop in and meet the team or give us a call and we will be delighted to help. hello@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Jared Kilgarriff Associate Director

Bayswater 020 7402 0070 Kensington 020 7937 9976 North Kensington 020 8960 0181 Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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23/10/2013 10:18

Chepstow Road, W2 ÂŁ1,350,000 Share of Freehold A truly stunning split-level, (first and second floors), character conversion apartment located within close proximity to all of the highly sought-after boutique shops and restaurants on Westbourne Grove. The flat forms part of this highly desirable terrace of stucco-fronted houses and is perfectly placed for access to Notting Hill and Bayswater Underground Stations. The apartment features a glorious reception room on the first floor with amazing light and offers further potential subject to the necessary planning consents being granted. EPC=D. Reception room, kitchen, two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Sole Agents

020 7221 2277 natalia@ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Liz Thomson Head of Lettings

Winter is on the way and we have a lot of prospective buyers and tenants eager to get things moving before the Christmas festivities are upon us. So, if you have a property coming available in the near future do give us a call and we would be delighted to give you a free valuation.

Alternatively drop into any one of our offices and meet the team.

Michael Wilson Head of Sales

Bayswater 020 7402 0070 Kensington 020 7937 9976 North Kensington 020 8960 0181 Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

MOUNTGRANGE.indd 4

23/10/2013 10:19

Lexham Mews, W8 £2,495,000 Freehold A fabulous three storey, non-basement house on a quiet cobbled mews in Stratford Village.The property, at 1,698 sq ft (approx.), boasts flexible accommodation with an architecturally designed atrium, generous entertaining and living space and a luxurious master suite, including walk in wardrobe and study/snug area.

Located close to the local shops on Stratford Road, the house is moments from the extensive amenities and transport links on Kensington High Street and Earls Court Road. EPC=D. Two reception rooms, dining room, study area/bedroom three, kitchen, two bedrooms, dressing room and two bathrooms. Sole Agents

020 7937 9976 toby @ mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

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

…values that you’ll love MOUNTGRANGE.indd 5

23/10/2013 10:19

ABSOLUTELY Property

Luxurious Lettings

Lowdown

for Landlords Insurance: Who needs it?

I

nsurance is crucial for landlords but make sure you have the right type. Building insurance is essential - if you own a house you should organise this yourself, but if you own an apartment in a block, this will be arranged by the managing agent and you will pay the premium through the service charge.

If the property is furnished you will need contents insurance too. We also recommend landlords have rent guarantee insurance which protects against rent arrears. We offer this to landlords free-of-charge.

Always read the smallprint. For example, if the property is empty or untenanted for 28 days or more, you need to notify your insurer or risk invalidating your policy. Also check the ‘excess’ you will pay in the event of a claim, as this can vary between policies.

At the start of a tenancy, have an inventory done by an independent third party. This should be signed by tenant and landlord.

Marc von Grundherr

Director, Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings � 020 7402 9866 • brlets.co.uk

This stunning property is nestled within one of Notting Hill’s premier mews and can be found just off the world renowned Portobello Road.

�

T

his property has been designed in a distinctive Scandinavian fashion. Its unique features include a sauna room and plunge pool in the reception area.

The kitchen/dining area features a remarkable skylight, which illuminates the bottom two

Details

Alba Place, W11 £4,658 Per Month

levels of the property.

The accommodation is arranged over three floors and offers two bedrooms (one with en-suite bath), open plan kitchen/dining area, shower room, reception room, sauna, indoor plunge pool and two terraces.

Contact

John D Wood & Co., Ladbroke Grove 020 7229 2356; johndwood.co.uk

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23/10/2013 16:57

THE QUADRANT, W10 - £475 PER WEEK

CHESTERTON ROAD, W10 - £475 PER WEEK

This immaculate two double bedroom, two bathroom penthouse apartment offers fantastic outside space. Each room has a balcony combined with a very large private roof terrace.

This beautifully presented two bedroom apartment on the raised ground floor would make a perfect home for a professional couple or sharers.

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD KINGSBRIDGE ROADmodern W10country £750house Per Week An extraordinary and individual in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House

ST. HELENS GARDENS, W10 - £500 WEEK ST CHARLES SQUARE, W10£475 WEEK is broadly in style and is a wide, single storeyPER building large three windows over looking the gardens. extended inPER 1978 to Set on thePalladian ever sought after tree lined Kingsbridge oad, thiswith beautiful bedroom flat is finished to anItewas cellent standard throughout with a great mi of modern, and period features including traditional modern bathrooms include a garden room and a contemporary large studio complex including a workshop andhigh darkceilings, room . The propertyfireplaces, currently has very high ceilingsand and Having been newly refurbished, this flat is in superb condition. An This beautifully refurbished two double bedroom apartment is kitchen all of which help tothe create stylish and comfortable environment. Stairs lead up from the entrance to the first floor landing brick parapets surrounding roof awhich has good storage space. open plan kitchen and living room is a sociable environment ideal finished to a high standard including designer furnishings. Set on with two bedrooms and a family bathroom located towards the back of the property whilst the large reception, entertaining space and for entertaining. everroom popular Stcellar Charles Square in North Kensington.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complexthe | dining | wine | integrated garaging | small lake arboretum | kitchen is at the front. Stairs off the landing lead up to a further master bedroom with modern en suite shower room. over six acres of land

THE WHOLE WINKWORTH NETWORK, NOW IN YOUR POCKET Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

020 7792 5000 | northkensington@winkworth.co.uk

WINKWORTH_NH_NOV.indd 1 1 Winkworth Ladbroke Grove.2.indd

winkworth.co.uk/north-kensington 24/10/2013 15:11 12:26 18/02/2013

SO

SO

LD

LD BROOKSVILLE AVENUE, NW6 £1,500,000

CREIGHTON ROAD, NW6 £1,649,950

Three Bedroom house

Four Bedroom house

SO

SO

LD

LD

PEPLOE ROAD, NW6 £1,475,000

CREDITON ROAD, NW10 £1,500,000

Four Bedroom house

Sold above asking. Five Bedroom house

Five Bedroom house

LD SO

LD SO

MILMAN ROAD, £2,150,000

CHEVENING ROAD, £2,500,000 FIve Bedroom house

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/kensal-queens-park

See things differently.

020 8960 4947 kensalrise@winkworth.co.uk

WINKWORTH_NHKENSALRISE_NOV.indd 1

23/10/2013 17:36

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large, modern country house with far-reaching views and extremely flexible accommodation with potential to extend further. Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large house.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garagingr

STAVERTON ROAD, NW2 £1,450,000, Freehold

Recently the subject of £2,750,000 a full refurbishment this magnificent house would make an ideal family home. Dripping in charm and retaining OARE,been WILTSHIRE FREEHOLD many original features this house has been thoughtfully laid out to give even the largest of families the space to breath and entertain.

Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large, modern country house with far-reaching views and extremely flexible Staverton Road is a pretty tree lined street and is close to the transport links at Willesden Green Tube station. accommodation with potential to extend further. Located in the Wiltshire countryside and built in the 1960’s as a large house.

Four bedrooms | four bathrooms | garden room | hall | drawing room | studio complex | dining room | wine cellar | integrated garagingr

Scan this code to download the Winkworth iPhone app

winkworth.co.uk/kensal-queens-park

See things differently.

020 8960 4947 kensalrise@winkworth.co.uk

WINKWORTH_NHKENSALRISE_NOV.indd 2

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Sales Experts

Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

1

Should I redecorate pre-sale?

T

he decision on whether to redecorate is a question we are often asked by our clients. Nowadays, incoming purchasers are so eager to put their own mark on a property that repainting those old walls can sometimes feel a bit futile.

However, I believe that a fresh coat of paint injects new life into a property, which is only going to improve that all-important first impression that the buyer has when he or she enters the property. Alongside redecorating, keeping a house clean and tidy is equally as important in making that first impression count, and is something we will always recommend to our clients.

2

3

What common mistakes do sellers make?

O

ne common mistake sellers make is not having their paperwork prepared before they launch their property to the market. Sellers need to be up to date with documents such as the landlord's consent if they have made any internal changes to a leasehold property, service charge accounts and planning permission documentation, amongst others.

Without these, when a buyer is found you will be responsible for the delay in exchange, which can cause problems particularly if you are in a chain. Another is appointing the wrong agent or choosing the right one then not listening to them. It is important to instruct an agent you can trust, be honest with and work with to agree achievable expectations at the outset. Not taking their advice might lead to disappointment when your expectation of the sale price or the timing of sale is not achieved.

4

When is the best time to sell?

T

5

Why hasn’t my property sold?

I

t’s probably a combination of how the property is presented and the price. You should consider whether every room is dressed to its maximum appeal and also ask your agent to provide evidence of recent sales data so that the price can be scrutinised and adjusted if necessary. Asking your agent for an honest viewing feedback can be very revealing.

“ There hasn't seemed to be as much of a defined seasonal pattern in the market over the past four or five years

6

“ Should I use a Financial Adviser?

I

f you’re looking at making any investment, sound professional advice is always helpful. For most people, buying property is the single largest financial investment that they will make and therefore advice and planning for the long term is vital. A good financial advisor will take into consideration all your personal circumstances and will be able to offer the best options available to you.

They will be able to save you the time from doing all your own research, particularly if you don’t have much financial experience, knowledge or skills. In most cases, they will be able to save you money and, most importantly, ensure that you don’t lose any money. The mortgage market can be complicated, with thousands of different products out there they can select the right product for you.

nvesting in any area usually comes down to finance. A lesson I learnt very early on is always go for the best location for your affordability. If you are tight on budget, one should always go for the worst flat in the best road. You can always make improvements to a flat but it is impossible to change a road or location. As our office covers a number of different postcodes, we have seen increases in price across W8, W11, W14 and W10/W2, so we are hopeful that this will continue.

here hasn't seemed to be as much of a defined seasonal pattern in the sales market over the past four or five years in our experience. There are certainly busier months of the year for registering new buyers, typically January/February and September/October, but if your property is priced to fit with the prevailing market conditions it will sell at any time of the year. We agreed the sale of a house in North Kensington between Christmas and New Year 2012, despite the office being closed. The two week period at the end of August is usually very quiet in W10 as the exodus for local residents avoiding the chaos of the Carnival starts mid month. Suffice to say, I’d avoid launching a new instruction during these weeks.

1. Alistair Heather,

2. Maddie Lewington

Associate, Strutt & Parker

Associate, Douglas & Gordon

Director, John D Wood & Co.

� 020 7221 1111 • struttandparker.com

� 020 7727 7777 • douglasandgordon.com

� 020 7908 1100 • johndwood.co.uk

I

Where should I invest?

3. Matthew Harrop

4. James Kerman

5. Michael Wilson

6. Kim Turner

Director, Winkworth

Director, Mountgrange Heritage

Sales Manager, Bective Leslie Marsh

� 020 7792 5000 • winkworth.co.uk

� 020 7221 2277 • mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

� 020 7795 4288 • bective.co.uk

144 AskSales_NottHill_Nov.indd 144

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Prime Purchase

Vendor Advice Pitfalls in the sales process

W

hen embarking on the sale of your property there are numerous pitfalls and anxieties that vendors are confronted with. Not to mention the often emotional strain of selling a property with many sentimental memories attached. In my opinion, it is the agent’s responsibility to alleviate as many of these pressures from their client as possible. This is accomplished by setting out a clear strategy from the offset, maintaining regular communication with the client, and reporting on how the sale is progressing. We at Anscombe & Ringland also find it helpful to ensure our clients have a solicitor lined up from the early stages of marketing, in order to avoid unwanted hold ups further down the line.

Once a purchaser is found, the vendor will want to be ensured that they are dependable and capable of living up to the terms of the agreed deal. It is essential that the agent conducts the correct due diligence on the purchaser, providing their client with knowledge that all the ingredients to sell their property are now in place. Finally, regular contact with solicitors throughout the conveyancing process until the point of exchange is essential to help ensure efficient progress.

Nicholas Spencer

Sales Manager at Anscombe & Ringland Notting Hill � 020 7727 7227 • anscombes.co.uk

A stunning collection of luxurious town houses finished to the most exacting standards.

�

T

hese luxurious modern townhouses are located in a beautiful and tranquil corner of North Kensington. The properties are being lovingly created by luxury property developer Taylor Wimpey Central London to an exceptional standard. The

Details

Argyll Place, W10 £3,800,000 Freehold

properties boast flexible living accommodation over five floors and benefit from fabulous views across Kensington Memorial Park, along with 40 ft receptions, private gardens and two underground parking spaces at the rear of each property.

Contact

Bective Leslie Marsh 020 3667 5583; bective.co.uk

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23/10/2013 16:58

Selling a premium apartment?

Our results are off the charts.

67%

33%

FLAT SALES £4M AND OVER

KAY & CO

EVERYONE ELSE

It’s rare for words like ‘interesting’ and ‘research’ to sit in the same sentence, but bear with us. If you’re selling on The Hyde Park Estate nearly 7 out 10 flats that achieved more than £4m in the last two years were sold by one firm. Kay & Co*.

We think it speaks volumes about our specialist knowledge of this area. And about our database of local and international buyers.

And about what we can do for you. Maximise your apartment’s potential and call us today.

Hyde Park & Bayswater 020 7262 2030 24-25 Albion Street, W2 2AX

kayandco.com *Source: Kay&Co/LONRES research figures for properties exchanged in postcode sector W2 2 between April 2011 to March 2013.

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kayandco.com

W2 Sussex Gardens, Hyde Park

020 3394 0016 sales.hydepark@kayandco.com

ÂŁ1,499,999 Share of Freehold Set within this attractive period property a lateral conversion spanning two buildings. The property offers a large drawing room, dining room, an eat-in kitchen, two large bedrooms, bathroom, utility room and a private balcony. The apartment further benefits from access to a communal terrace, and is ideally located moments from Hyde Park and Paddington Station. Energy Rating: D.

KAY&CO_NottHill_Nov.indd 3

18/10/2013 14:13

ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Lettings Experts Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

1

Why should I use a property management agent?

L

andlords often think that managing a property is a breeze, but forget how many little issues can arise during a tenancy. Think about the value of your time and how many hours will be spent managing a long term tenancy. A good property management department such as Chesterton Humberts’ has an experienced and regulated team of property managers, beneficial buying power and tried and tested tradesmen that they can call upon 24 hours a day. Landlords can be as hand on or hand off as they wish and with all costs being tax deductable, it really is a worthwhile investment.

3

How to attract the best tenants?

C

ompetition is high at the moment for good tenants, so my best advice is to ensure your property is presented in the best possible light. Improve the internal specification, paying particular attention to kitchens and bathrooms. These are high traffic areas and tenants will be impressed if they are modern and fresh. If your lease allows, laying down a durable and hard wearing wooden floor attracts tenants as there is less concern about damage and they are easy to keep clean. Furnishings are a vitally important aspect, mismatching or tired looking furniture will not entice the right tenant and should be replaced with practical and comfortable items.

“

2

Furnishings are a vitally important aspect

4 Who is renting in the area?

T

he demographic of renters in Notting Hill is as diverse as the property on offer. The area is very popular with young professionals looking for the perfect balance of excellent transport links and a ‘buzzy’ local neighbourhood. We also see a lot of corporate and international tenants in the area, as nearby Paddington provides convenient access to Heathrow airport.

“

Rental yield vs capital growth?

A

s a result of the phenomenal growth in capital values of properties within the prime areas of Central London, rental yields are not wildly exciting. A net return of over 3.5% is considered pretty good in the current market. The good news is that Kensington and Chelsea remains in huge demand amongst tenants, so well-presented and correctly priced properties are empty for very short periods of time, if at all. The continuing growth in the values means that yields are unlikely to improve in the short term but if you are getting more than you would in a bank and your capital has grown by up to 30% in last year, you are winning both ways.

5

Best buy-to-let investments?

W

ith borrowing rates at the lowest level in years and properties in high demand, now is a very good time to invest. Confidence in the market looks set to stay for the foreseeable future and buyers can purchase a property these days with the knowledge that in a few years’ time they will have made a healthy return on their investment. A key factor to keep in mind when purchasing a buy-to-let investment is to ensure you minimise any periods when your property is void of tenants. Choose areas that are in high demand and buy something regularly sought after. A property within easy reach of transport links, parks and restaurants will always be more desirable and will be able to command higher rents.

6

Furnished or unfurnished?

T

he market has changed significantly in recent years and, although applicants seeking a house often have furniture, in the case of smaller properties most tenants prefer not to bear the cost of buying their own. The key is to be flexible. Small flats can be furnished at minimal cost and the furniture provided should be neutral and therefore useable for multiple tenancies. Its sod’s law that the ideal applicant for that perfect furnished one bedroom flat would prefer it unfurnished, and vice versa. The best approach, this being the case, is to offer a property to the market unfurnished, but with option of the landlord providing some basic furniture on the basis of a very strong, or asking price, offer.

1. Ed Woolgar

2. Anna Ambrose

3. Sally Livermore

Director, Chesterton Humberts

Area Lettings Director, Marsh & Parsons

Lettings Manager, Faron Sutaria

� 020 3040 8343 • chestertonhumberts.com

� 020 7313 6910 • marshandparsons.com

� 020 7243 1352 • faronsutaria.co.uk

4. Caroline Phillips

5. Michael Palmer

6. Laurelin Taylor

Lettings Manager, Beaney Pearce

Lettings Manager, KFH

Head of Lettings, Carter Jonas

� 020 7221 9044 • beaneypearce.co.uk

� 020 3282 1550 • kfh.co.uk

� 0207 371 3377 • carterjonas.co.uk

148 AskLets_NottHill_Nov_V2.indd 148

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BROOK GREEN

138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6

LOCAL

.

020 7371 4171

INDEPENDENT

.

I N V O LV E D

STERNDALE ROAD W14 5/6 BEDROOMS  RECEPTION  KITCHEN/DINING/FAMILY ROOM  MEDIA/LIVING ROOM  STUDY/BEDROOM 6 2 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE)  UTILITY ROOM  2 SHOWER ROOMS  SOUTH FACING GARDEN SOUTH FACING ROOF TERRACE  EPC RATING E 52

GUIDE £2.45M

FREEHOLD

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Abingdon Road, W8 £89 5 per week, Furnished A fantastic newly refurbished second floor three bedroom flat in a well maintained and popular mansion block. EPC:D

Kensington High Street, W8 £575 per week, Furnished A beautifully presented large one bedroom first floor flat, featuring a fabulous south facing terrace. EPC: D

Kensington Green, W8 £2750 per week, Unfurnished Located within this secure development in Kensington, this well presented house offers great family accommodation and a private garden. EPC: D

Wynnstay Gardens, W8 £2100 per week, Furnished A stunning fourth floor four bedroom apartment benefitting from a lift and wooden floors, located just off Kensington High Street. EPC: D

Hamptons Kensington Lettings. 020 7717 5459 | Sales. 020 7717 5457

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Talbot Road, W11 £1195 per week unfurnished/unfurnished.

A beautifully designed, three bedroom triplex apartment in excellent condition, boasting a contemporary finish, wood floors, vaulted ceilings and private roof terrace. EPC: C

St Stephens Gardens, W2 £495 per week unfurnished A stunning lateral first floor flat with fantastic high ceilings and full height period windows offering an excellent modern finish.. EPC: D

Westbourne Park Road, W11 £460 per week furnished A beautifully designed garden apartment comprising a spacious reception room, double bedroom, separate kitchen and private patio. EPC: D

Hamptons Notting Hill Lettings. 020 7034 0405 | Sales. 020 7205 5444

HAMPT_KEN_NH_Nov.indd 3

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beaneypearce.co.uk

Desirable location Kensington A newly refurbished two bedroom apartment with wood floors throughout and a modern kitchen and bathroom. A very desirable address within walking distance from Notting Hill and High Street Kensington great for access to all the shops, bars and restaurants in the area. (710 sq.ft/66 sq.m)

2 bedrooms Open plan reception/kitchen Bathroom Patio Energy Efficiency Rating: C

Furnished ÂŁ675 per week

020 7221 9044

Green serenity Holland Park A lovely one bedroom property in a pretty location in Holland Park. A peaceful home with lovely views overlooking communal gardens.

Walking distance from Holland Park station and all the amenities in the area. (473.61 sq.ft/44 sq.m)

1 bedroom Open plan reception/kitchen Bathroom Communal gardens Residents bike room Separate storage unit Energy Efficiency Rating: D

Furnished or Unfurnished ÂŁ450 per week

020 7221 9044

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Established 1991 SALES & LETTINGS

Bright & beautiful Knightsbridge Share of Freehold ÂŁ7,100,000 020 7838 1888

BEANEY PEARCE_NH_NOV.indd 3

On the first floor of a magnificent period building in Knightsbridge, opposite Hyde Park, a stunning and elegant four bedroom lateral apartment. This is a wonderfully light apartment with high ceilings and well proportioned rooms throughout. It has been refurbished by the current owners to an exceptional standard. Rutland Court is fully portered and gated. There is secure parking available for two cars. The apartment comes with a huge storage room and use of a well equipped communal gym. The world renowned amenities of Knightsbridge and Sloane Street are moments away and the open spaces of Hyde Park are across the road. (2,337 sq.ft/217 sq.m)

Reception / dining room, kitchen / breakfast room, master bedroom suite with dressing room, 2 further bedrooms, study/bedroom 4, dark room, bathroom, cloakroom, 2 parking spaces (rented on an annual basis), wine cellar/storage room, gymnasium with use of personal trainer, Energy Efficiency Rating: C

Chelsea

Notting Hill

South Kensington

T: 020 7590 9500

T: 020 7221 9044

T: 020 7838 1888 21/10/2013 14:16

Notting Hill

ÂŁ400 pw + Fees Furnished

1 Bedroom | 1 Reception | 1 Bathroom Balcony | Near To Portobello Square | EPC - C Hyde Park 020 7402 9866 hyde@brlets.co.uk Eleven offices open six days a week Monday - Saturday Beaufort Park 020 8732 7980 | Canary Wharf 020 7517 6088 | City 020 7213 9700 | Ealing 020 8280 0140 | Greenwich 020 3440 7010 | Hampstead 020 7435 9681 Highgate 020 8341 2335 | Hyde Park 020 7402 9866 | Imperial Wharf 020 7348 7620 | Kensington 020 7938 3522 | Knightsbridge 020 7581 2112

B&R_NOV.indd 1

18/10/2013 17:00

London’s Letting Agency

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk

0800 092 9656

Kensington

£530 pw + Fees Furnished

Earls Court

£625 pw + Fees Furnished

2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms Communal Garden | Pool | Gym | Parking | EPC - E Kensington 020 7938 3522 kens@brlets.co.uk

2 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms Porter | Tube & Amenities Nearby | EPC - B Kensington 020 7938 3522 kens@brlets.co.uk

Marylebone

Kensington

£1,100 pw + Fees Furnished

3 Bedrooms | 1 Reception | 2 Bathrooms Town House | Patio | Near Amenities | EPC - C Hyde Park 020 7402 9866 hyde@brlets.co.uk

£1,385 pw + Fees Unfurnished

4 Bedrooms | 2 Receptions | 3 Bathrooms Town House | Roof Terrace | Garage | EPC - C Kensington 020 7938 3522 kens@brlets.co.uk

Dubai | Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

B&R_NOV.indd 2

18/10/2013 17:01

Clanricarde Gardens W2

key

F E AT U R E S

PERIOD C ONVERSION 1008 SQFT/93.6 SQM NEWLY REFURBISHED

£1,250,000 S H A R E

O F

F R E E H O L D

RECEPTION RO OM/KITCHEN T WO BEDRO OMS T WO BATHRO OMS (ONE EN-SUITE)

Notting Hill Gate Office

CURRENT EPC RATING: D

t: 020 7727 7227 e: nottinghill.sales@anscombes.co.uk 15 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11 3JQ

anscombes.co.uk

Anscombe & Ringland_NOV.indd 2

22/10/2013 11:01

Porchester Gardens W2

key

F E AT U R E S

PORTERED PURPOSE BUILT BLO CK 777 SQFT/72 SQM SEC OND FLO OR

£875,000 L E A S E H O L D

LIFT RECEPTION RO OM SEPARATE KITCHEN

Notting Hill Gate Office

T WO D OUBLE BEDRO OMS

t: 020 7727 7227

BATHRO OM

e: nottinghill.sales@anscombes.co.uk

CURRENT EPC RATING: D

15 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11 3JQ

anscombes.co.uk

Anscombe & Ringland_NOV.indd 3

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ABSOLUTELY Property

Living The Dream The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market.

Holland Park, W11 A stunningly refurbished three bedroom apartment in a magnificent Grade II listed Holland Park mansion. This beautifully designed lateral apartment is situated within a spectacular stucco fronted villa in one of Holland Park’s most prestigious locations. The property enjoys luxurious accommodation with state-of-the-art technology and benefits from a substantial south facing roof terrace. The property comprises a spectacular reception with superb open-plan kitchen, three double bedrooms with en-suites, family bathroom, study and south facing roof terrace with lounge bar area.

£3,850,000 � Marsh & Parsons 020 7605 6890 • marshandparsons.co.uk

St Quintin Avenue, W10

Redcliffe Mews, SW10

A handsome double fronted Victorian house (1524 sq ft) on one of North Kensington’s most popular residential roads. The property offers fantastic entertaining space on the ground and first floors leading up to two bedroom suites, occupying an entire level each on the second and third floors. The ground floor kitchen and dining area benefit from full height ceilings, an impressive period fireplace and access to a patio garden. To the first floor is the main reception room and a separate study area, also with a fireplace and four large windows which bring in plenty of natural light. This property is situated at the junction of St. Quintin Avenue and Barlby Road. The house is within the Royal Borough and is offered chain free.

Situated in an immaculate private mews, this beautiful three bedroom house has been recently refurbished to the highest standards. Glass bi-fold doors open up onto a decked, west facing garden. The property further comprises three bedrooms, one with en-suite, a separate shower room, dual-aspect reception, study area, garage and utility room. The master bedroom boasts an en-suite, walk-in wardrobe, and air-conditioning. The property also benefits from under floor heating, is incredibly quiet, and is flooded with a wealth of natural light.

£1,500,000 Freehold � Winkworth 020 7792 5000 • winkworth.co.uk

£2,950,000 Share of Freehold � Mountgrange Heritage 020 7937 9976 • mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY Property

THE BEST OF CONNAUGHT VILLAGE Annual price increase: 12% Average house price: £909,476 (Zoopla) KFH in conjunction with Zoopla.co.uk has compiled a selection of London village guides and found that living in or near to a village in London can typically command a premium in the region of 51%. Each month we’ll feature one of those villages, and this month we’re focusing on Connaught village.

Hyde Park Street, Hyde Park Estate, W2 £3,250,000 - Freehold This handsome town house, only steps away from Hyde Park, boasts antique oak, granite and limestone floors and has been cleverly interior designed to maximise the capture of natural light. The property features a bright, open plan raised ground floor reception/dining room, which opens onto a full width balcony and also provides a galleried view of the large family kitchen/breakfast room. There are four bedrooms and off street parking. � KFH Bayswater: 020 7724 1222 • kfh.co.uk

Located in the centre of West London in the heart of Bayswater, Connaught village is surrounded by some of central London’s busiest arterial roads.

Despite it being so centrally located, it is an oasis of tranquility with a genteel atmosphere to match.

Many of its pretty streets are tucked away and interestingly, the area is owned and managed by the Church of England and is part of the Hyde Park Estate. Connaught Street forms the heart and is lined with exclusive boutiques, top restaurants and coffee shops. It has a big community spirit and events such as the annual summer festival, which includes food stalls, competitions and even a dog show, really help to make it feel like a true country village fete.

Transport Links: � Marble Arch tube station (Zone 1) � Bus routes: 7, 16, 23 (24 hour), 98, 159 (24 hour), 332, 414 and 436 Main Schools: Ravenstone Primary School � Connaught House Primary School

�

Interesting Fact: Connaught village plays host to the world’s only urban hunt, the Connaught Square Squirrel Hunt, which meets in the Duke of Kendal on Connaught Street.

For more information visit www.kfh.co.uk/village-guides

Gloucester Square, W2 Set over the ground level of this stucco period building, this attractive two bedroom, two bathroom apartment offers well-balanced contemporary accommodation with a landscaped private courtyard. This property is within close proximity to Hyde Park, the shops and cafes of Connaught Village and the transport links of Paddington Station.

Up your Street Rollo Miles

Manager, John D Wood & Co., Ladbroke Grove � 020 7229 2356 • johndwood.co.uk

A

n exceptional architect designed garden and raised ground floor maisonette with stunning entertaining space. This beautifully finished property boasts spacious rooms arranged over two floors of an impressive Victorian house, and a private walled garden.

Accommodation comprises a 40’ (approx) reception with a conservatory addition and stylish fully fitted kitchen; upstairs are two impressive double bedrooms, two bathrooms (one en-suite) and a third bedroom/study.

The property is located within very easy reach of Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road with numerous shops, restaurants, bars and amenities at hand. Tube stations at Westbourne Park and Notting Hill Gate are the closest.

Westbourne Park Road is a very well positioned street, it crosses Portobello Road and runs parallel to Westbourne Grove. It is famous for pubs like the Cow, the Westbourne and Bumpkins. Interestingly, this street is half in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBK&C) and half in Westminster. So, if you want the world famous parking permit make sure you buy on the RBK&C side.

Westbourne Park Road, W11 Guide Price £1,495,000

£1,400,000 Share of Freehold � Kay & Co., Hyde Park 020 7262 2030 • kayandco.com

Spotlight on W8 Average asking price - £4,965,360Average asking rents - £5,166 pcmAverage property value - £2,441,425

Data provided by 159 LTD_NottHill_Nov.indd 159

23/10/2013 17:01

ASTON CT, AYLESTONE AVE, NW6

PRICES FROM: £449,950

• 28ft open plan living space

• Modern bathrooms

Two UNIQUE Penthouses situated within the loft area of this

• 1 & 2 bedrooms

• Contemporary specification

beautiful building oozing an impressive amount of space with

• High spec kitchen

• Close to transport & amenities

its high ceilings, floor to ceiling doors and the abundance of light. Viewing is highly recommended.

ALEXANDER AVENUE, NW6

£1,799,950 FREEHOLD

• 5 bedrooms (converted loft)

• Magnificent kitchen area

Truly exceptional contemporary style home situated on

• 3 reception rooms, lounge hall

• Large garden, garage & OSP

this quiet road in the heart of Dobree/Brondesbury Park

• En-suites & family bathroom

• Office/playroom

Estate offering plenty of lateral living space. Great for entertaining. Viewing essential to fully appreciate.

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CHATSWORTH ROAD, NW2

£2,650,000.00 FREEHOLD

• 8 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms

• Landscaped 70ft rear garden

A rare opportunity to purchase this exceptionally well

• Ideal entertaining space

• Mapesbury Conservation Area

presented & substantial detached home offering 5000 sq ft of

• High spec kitchen & conservatory

• Completely refurbished

lateral living space cleverly combining contemporary style living with many original features. Viewing essential.

MANOR HOUSE DRIVE, NW6

£2,750,000.00 FREEHOLD

• 4 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms

• Study, off street parking

Substantial 4 bed detached property on 2 floors offering

• Master bedroom + dressing room

• 93’ mature rear garden + patio

just under 3000 sq ft of fantastic living accommodation.

• Beautiful fitted kitchen

• Close to amenities & transport

Beautifully presented and situated in this prime position in Brondesbury Park. Viewing essential.

www.cameronsstiff.co.uk 275 Willesden Lane, NW2 5JA020 8459 1133enquiries@cameronsstiff.co.uk

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Letting Agency of the Year 2013

St Marks Road London W11

A spacious 2 bedroom period conversion with a 60ft secluded, south west facing garden & itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own private entrance. Renovated to a high standard this property offers an abundance of light with a practical & fluid layout.

EPC pending

ÂŁ1,250,000 share of freehold

Notting Hill

020 3040 8585

sales.nottinghill@chestertonhumberts.com

chestertonhumberts.com CHEST_HUMB.indd 2 Che 4475 Absolutely Notting Hill Nov 297x210 2pge.indd 1

15/10/2013 14:42 04/10/2013 19:43

Holland Park Avenue London W11

A magnificent 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom Victorian house in Holland Park. The property has undergone an extensive refurbishment to provide a spectacular family home with large front garden & rear patio terrace.

EPC rating E

ÂŁ3,200 per week

Notting Hill

020 3040 8588

lettings.nottinghill@chestertonhumberts.com

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The spoils of the hardy workplace warrior.

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74: 11 00:00 years

MONTHS

WATER RESISTANT 50m

Only 75 years left on your lease?

If you are considering selling a long lease is essential.

Call our Leasehold Enfranchisement Dept on 020 7591 8746

ÂŁ1,595,000 Leasehold Royal Crescent Mews W11 A stunning and spacious mews house finished to a very high standard with contemporary interior wooden floors throughout and a charming patio garden.

3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, Patio garden, Garage, EPC: F.

Kensington Gate Sales 020 7581 1152 kengatesales@dng.co.uk

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douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,425,000 Leasehold Ledbury Road W11 Extremely light maisonette over the top two floors of this period building, incorporating 1,169 sq ft of useable space.

3 bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/dining room, Study area, Cloakroom, Balcony, EPC: E.

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

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THESE HOUSES ARE NEAR YOU NOW:

£1,325,000 Share of Freehold Royal Crescent W11

DetailstoMobile Simply type in ‘dng’ to 84840 for details of properties near you now.

A fabulous maisonette in a period conversion with views overlooking the communal gardens.

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

2 bedrooms, En-suite bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Kitchen, EPC: C.

£849,950 Leasehold Linden Gardens W2

A bright and spacious two double bedroom flat on the lower ground floor of a Victorian house.

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

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception/dining room, Kitchen, Private decked garden, EPC: C.

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douglasandgordon.com

ÂŁ1,350 per week Unfurnished Ladbroke Gardens W11

A fantastic newly refurbished top floor maisonette with access to communal gardens.

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

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Communal gardens, EPC: E.

ÂŁ1,250 per week Unfurnished Observatory Gardens W8

A light and spacious ground floor maisonette in this beautiful period building.

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

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Dining room, Kitchen, Parking, EPC: E.

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A little birdie told us...

Follow D&G’s @ed_mead and @GeorgeFranks on twitter for up to the moment market comments from two of the country’s leading property experts. You’d be a twit not to.

£875 per week Furnished/ Unfurnished/Part Furnished Garway Road W2

An extremely stylish top floor maisonette just off Westbourne Grove.

£725 per week Unfurnished Melbury Road W14

A superb garden flat with excellent entertaining space and private garden.

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

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen/breakfast room, EPC: D.

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

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Dining room, Gardens, EPC: C.

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douglasandgordon.com

£495 per week Furnished Airlie Gardens W8

A fabulous one bedroom second floor flat with contemporary interior.

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

Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room with dining area, Open-plan kitchen, EPC: C.

£400 per week A charming, well presented one bedroom flat with £400 per week Furnished a private roof terrace.

Furnished Cornwall Crescent W11 Cornwall Crescent Double bedroom, Bathroom, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen, Roof terrace, EPC: C. W11

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

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OUR APPROACH IS UNIQUE:

184 EXPERIENCED AGENTS ACROSS OUR 19 OFFICES

WE ALREADY KNOW ALMOST

We have seven offices in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea more than any other London agent.

all work together to find the perfect buyer or tenant for your property.

PROSPECTIVE BUYERS AND TENANTS WHO ARE LOOKING FOR A PROPERTY JUST LIKE YOURS

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