Absolutely Kensington & Chelsea April 2021 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

KENSINGTON & CHELSEA

Kensington & Chelsea

APRIL 2021 / £3.95

Slow

From ﬁne art to classic cars: all the best investments

FASHION APRIL 2021

Sustainable summer looks

PAPER PLAY

Fabulous fabrics and wallpapers from Ottoline

Shape

SHIFT FRESH CUTS FOR SPRING

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ORANGERIES GARDEN ROOMS C O N S E R VAT O R I E S OAK BUILDINGS

Call for our inspirational brochure or book an expert design consultation 01278 764444 davidsalisbury.com

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MID-SEASON SALE NOW ON WITH 15% OFF

Shop by phone, email or online at BoConcept.com Battersea Reach, Harrods, Finchley Road, Notting Hill, Tottenham Court Road, Guildford, Kingston, Westfield London

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Spring has arrived and it’s a great time to spruce up your home. Get 15% off all sofas, dining furniture, beds and much more in our largest ever mid-season sale. Bring each piece to life to suit your style when you personalise them. Configure the size, colours, finishes and more. With help from our free interior design service create your dream home interior. Book now online, in-store or over the phone.

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents APRIL 2021

C U LT U R E 10 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

INTERIORS 66 HOME INSPIRATION

14 WHAT'S ON

72 PATTERN CUTS

FOOD & DRINK 20 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

76 THE TREND

10 things we’re coveting this month

Your diary for April

News from the industry

23 BOX FRESH

The best meals, delivered

26 RECIPES Spanish specials from Brindisa

FA S H I O N 40 ECO FASHION

Aspiga's founder on sustainability

44 THE SHOOT Stella McCartney's new looks

News and trends

Ottoline's fabulous fabrics

Everything in orange

88 COLOUR POP

How to brighten up your home

LUXE 84 HOW TO INVEST Passion, return or both?

88 CLASSIC CARS

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

Advice from the experts

A B S O L U T E LY M A M A 115 MAMAHOOD 18 pages of babies and bumps incorporating Absolutely Mama magazine

O N T H E C OV E R louisaparris.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR ABBIE SCHOFIELD MAMA EDITOR CARLY GLENDINNING ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNER MIKE ROBERTS MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MEDIA CONSULTANTS STELLA ADAMS, ANABELA KOLECI, JONATHAN MEAD BRAND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER NAVINDER LALL FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3981 7187 or email: craig@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS We b si t e

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gingham colourways.

Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S April issue highlights

Ottoline

We are obsessed with these beautiful swirls, stripes and florals.

Marco Pierre White

Lessone with the hellraiserturned-domestic cook

or the first time, Absolutely has devised a section dedicated to everything luxe. It's a natural extension of our dedication to the luxury London lifestyle, but more substantial, and more fabulous. In it we look at the high net worth world, with its superyachts, trading secrets and investments of passion. These are particularly fascinating, spanning unlikely and esoteric collections of huge value. Pokemon cards, for instance, can change hands for hundreds of thousands of dollars among enthusiasts, as can the right pair of trainers or Hermes bag. We also look at more pederstrian invesments such as property, art and classic cars – let's hope you enjoy the new section. Otherwise April brings the usual mix of fashion, interiors, food and culture – and we're even allowing ourselves to feel a bit optimistic about travel. I enjoyed an online cookery course with Marco Pierre White, discussing sustainable fashion with Lucy Macnamara of Aspiga, finding out about lawyerturned designer Ottoline de Vries and trying out some of this year's best Easter treats. Enjoy April.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

5 Sneak out

All the best sustainable sneakers

4 Mulberry

A new colourway for 2021: Cloud Blue.

3 Easter

Our favourite treats? No question. Laduree's beautiful mini eggs.

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

ABBIE SCHOFIELD

SILK SHADES Founded on the principles of a capsule wardrobe and 'cost per wear', Silked London's collection consists of simple yet luxurious pieces you will reach for time and time again. Each of the eight 100% silk designs are available in three colours: Sapphire, Oyster and Onyx. Blouse £350, skirt £220 silkedlondon.com

W R A P PA R T Y Aspiga's Katie wrap dress is made with silky viscose satin that is biodegradable and originates from tree pulp. As well as this cheerful blue, it's available in green and pink — can we justify buying all three? £135 aspiga.com

EDITOR’S PICK

FEELING BLUE

MADE TO L A ST

This new fresh and uplifting scent by Jo Loves has notes of vetiver, patchouli and cedarwood, with a limited number of beautiful bottles designed by artist Natasha Murray. £115 joloves.com

Loom & Last's Aegean Blue French Linen Bedding is made from high quality ﬂax plants in Normandy. Not only does this use significantly less water than other methods but it creates the longest, smoothest fibres possible. £275 loomandlast.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

LOV E T H E WO R L D Sustainable fibres will make up 30% of Desigual's designs by 2021, and their Love the World collection is made from recycled and eco-friendly materials. desigual.com

FULL CIRCLE This Old Thing London has the most incredible collection of pre-loved luxury jewellery from designers such as Chanel, Hermès and Louis Vuitton. You can shop via a virtual appointment with founder Charlotte Rogers. thisoldthinglondon.com

BAG F O R L I F E Mulberry has launched a new handbag, the Iris Hobo. Combining a timeless silhouette with a nod to the label's early '70s designs, this bag is the more relaxed version of the original Iris. £1,195 mulberry.com

S TAY COOL Say goodbye to lukewarm picnic drinks thanks to Partner in Wine's chic collection of bottles and tumblers. Founded last summer by wine enthusiast Lucy Hitchcock, these summer essentials will keep your wine cold for up to 24 hours. From £20, partnerinwine.co.uk

HOME G R OW N Conscious knitwear brand Herd uses the ﬂeece of Bluefaced Leicester sheep, with all of their cosy garments made in Yorkshire and Lancashire. herdwear.co

SLIPPED UP This cami night dress is the Silk Toi Mon Amour negligée by Aubade. Flattering and comfortable, it's made from silk covered with a jaquard lace motif and a sheer lace panel at the bottom. £189 ameliesfollies.co.uk

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Interior architecture studio & online lifestyle collection Inspired designs for standout spaces

An Artful Life Store: anartfullife.co.uk Design studio: anartfullifestudio.com Instagram: anartfullife

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C U LT U R E

MATHIEU JULIEN, DEMI F PORTE METAL, 2020, COURTESY OF MATHIEU JULIEN AND SAATCHI YATES

What's on 14 • Sneakers Unboxed at the Design Museum 16 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

F I L M

Luna Drive In Cinema From 12 April BLUEWATER, BLENHEIM PALACE , KNEBWORTH HOUSE This Covid-safe cinema experience is back for spring with a movie roster including all the nostalgic favourites, from Legally Blonde to Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The technology is top-notch thanks to HD screens and in-car digital sound, plus there’s click & collect food and drink to munch while you watch. lunadriveincinema.com

HARBOUR PORPOISE, MISHA MILOVANOVICH, 2021

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The Shape of Colour U NTI L 9 MAY • D E L L AS P OSA GALLERY

Misha Milovanovich’s ﬁrst solo exhibition, The Shape of Colour, showcases a series of steel sculptures transformed into mesmerising ﬂuid-looking colourful forms. Abstract, surreal and striking, the Belgrade-born artist’s work can be viewed online before the gallery reopens. 2A Bathurst Street, W2 2SD dellasposa.com

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Wander Art Trail Ongoing M AY FA I R & B E L G R AV I A Londoners are invited to immerse themselves in art and design with this outdoor gallery trail in the streets of Mayfair and Belgravia. Follow the digital map and discover work from exciting artists such as Ricardo Cavolo, Emily Forgot and Yinka Ilori. mayfairandbelgravia.com

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

ART

Mischief and Misadventure Various dates until 27 May O L D R OYA L N AVA L C O L L E G E In anticipation of the physical exhibition Mischief and Misadventure, opening in May, illustrator Nick Ellwood is leading online drawing workshops for adults and children. Alternatively, those who visit the Old Royal Naval College in person can explore the beautiful Greenwich grounds with a guided tour. King William Walk, SE10 9NN ornc.org

PRES S

PL AY Plug in and listen to a podcast

SCIENCE THE INFINITE M O N K E Y C AG E Hosted by scientists Brian Cox and Robin Ince, this podcast looks at everyday aspects of life, as well as more curious phenomena, through a scientific lens. Episodes so far include The Science of Cooking and A History of Rock. Listen on BBC Sounds

MU S I C

LIVE IN LONDON

This Month’s Must See

Until 18 April ONLINE Live in London, a series of concerts performed at the Hippodrome Casino London in December 2020, will be available to stream online this month. The lineup includes musical theatre stars, musicians and comedians, from the cast of Rock of Ages to Russian violinist Yury Revich. fw-live.com

NATURE

A LLEZ L A FR A NCE

U NTI L 15 MAY • SAATCHI YATE S

aking its title from the French football chant, Allez La France brings together the work of four painters, Jin Angdoo, Mathieu Julien, Hams Klemens, and Kevin Pinsembert, to consider the legacy of the painting tradition in France. The exhibition can be seen online until the gallery opens to the public on 12 April. 6 Cork Street, W1J 3NX saatchiyates.com

N AT I O N A L T R U S T P O D C A S T Described as an ‘audio adventure through some of the UK’s greatest landscapes’, episodes of this gentle podcast are between 10 and 20 minutes long and each explore a different walk, garden, home or natural wonder. Listen on all major streaming services

BOOKS BROCCOLI BOOK CLUB During this virtual book club, journalist Diyora Shadijanova and a guest discuss thought-provoking and boundary-pushing books, from The Good Immigrant by Nikesh Shukla to Cambridge Analytica whistleblower Christopher Wylie’s memoir. Listen on all major streaming services

MATHIEU JULIEN ROUGE CAMAIEU, 2020

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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T Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street opens on 30 April at the Design Museum designmuseum.org

F o r k i c k s The Design Museum’s new exhibition is dedicated to the trainer for its iconography, mythology and manufacture. Absolutely has a preview By EVE HERBERT

rainers have been adopted by social movements and youth cultures across the globe. In 1970s New York, basketball and hip-hop communities elevated the sneaker from sportswear accessory to cultural symbol through the likes of Clyde Frazier and Run-DMC. An exhibition dedicated to the trainer opens this month at the Design Museum. Showcasing more than 200 shoes alone, it looks at various influential movements including the West Coast Skaters, the Casuals, Grime and the Bubbleheads in Cape Town. Starting in Tokyo, the tipping point came with early collaborations between streetwear boutiques and designers including the Atmos Air Max 1 Safari and the first Adidas and Yohji Yamamoto sneaker. Explore the key small retailers around the globe who were at the heart of the beginnings of sneaker culture, such as Footwork, Reed Space in New York and Patta in Amsterdam. Following the explosion of commercialisation, the exhibition also questions if collaborations are being developed for the love of sneakers or for commercial benefit. Sneaker sales continued to rise during 2020; uncover the surge of limited-edition products and collaborations reaching mass exclusivity including Colette, Sean Wotherspoon and Travis Scott with Nike, and Kanye and Pharell for Adidas, as well as some highlights from StockX including the most valuable sneaker release of 2020, the Jordan 1 Retro High Dior; the most hyped women’s sneaker release of 2020,

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CULTURE • PREVIEW

the Jordan 4 Retro Off-White Sail; and the most traded of all time, the Yeezy 350 Zebra. Relive past collections and see how the streetwear staple infiltrated the catwalk through full looks from A-COLD-WALL* by Samuel Ross and Craig Green’s 2021 Collection. Crossing the boundaries of fashion, designers such as Sacai and Martine Rose are taking design experimentation to new levels, through models such as the Nike x Sacai LD Waffle and Nike x Martine Rose Monarch. Take a journey into the design process behind some of the most technically inventive sneakers in the world and discover the cutting-edge technology, innovative materials and performative power integral to this footwear style. From the iconic early Converse ‘Big 9’ and materials from basketball clinics run by Chuck Taylor in the 1950s, to the record-breaking Nike ‘Alphafly NEXT%’ and self-lacing ‘Fit Intelligence’ shoe by Puma released last year, unveil the true history of the sport

“Relive past collections and see how the streetwear staple inﬁltrated the catwalk” shoe and the incredible designs developed to create more effective athletes through an exploration of eight design concerns. Expect to see early experiments by Nike, such as the classic blue and yellow ‘Waffle’ sneaker. Stretching the bounds of innovation, the exhibition also features a number of unseen prototypes including a shoe that breathes by using heat patterns from your foot created by the MIT Design Lab and Biorealize and the Reebok ‘Instapump Fury’, which was designed for an optimal fit. Visitors will be immersed in futuristic designs from the past and present. Explore the emergence of sneaker-tech in the 1980s with the Adidas ‘Micropacer’, featuring an LCD microcomputer embedded in the tongue, to even more controversial designs that question the formation of footwear, such as the first ‘5 finger’ prototype shoe from Vibram that replicates the feeling of running barefoot. Given that trainer soles are lasting in landfills for up to 1,000 years, the exhibition ends with a look to more sustainable futures through three prominent themes: upcycling and repair, circular design and consideration of materials. Unearth plantbased sneakers from around the world from brands including Veja and Native

Shoes, then learn more about the ‘repair, remake, create’ philosophy sweeping the fashion scene with customised designs from Helen Kirkum, Alexander Taylor in collaboration with Adidas, and the Adikoggs ‘Billy Bremner themed trainers’ inspired by the Leeds United footballer. The show culminates with the adidas ‘Future.Craft Strung’ designed by Kram/ Weisshaar, a shoe-making robot that pioneers a 3D knitting technology enabling it to produce full shoe uppers on the spot. The exhibition artwork, featuring the footprints of popular sneakers, has been created by London designer Jack Harper. Applying paint onto the base sole of a Nike Air Force shoe, Adidas Stan Smith, Converse All Star Chuck Taylors and the Van Classic shoe, the artwork experiments with differing amounts of force to produce impactful relief prints. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK

TASTE OF THAILAND YUM SA

A standout dish from Yum Sa's new menu is the flame-grilled lamb chops & roasted new season potatoes with an aromatic Masaman sauce, served with Tom Yum rice. This rich and relatively mild slow-cooked dish with coconut cream dates back to the 17th century, having been introduced to central Thailand by Persian merchants. yum-sa.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Food notes 20 • Meal kits 23 • Recipes 26 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this month By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

By grape press

Au Bon Climat 2016 “Isabelle” Pinot Noir Made by the “bad boy” of California, Jim Clendenen, this wine is heavily inﬂuenced by Burgundian winemaking. It’s lively, bright, fresh, juicy and utterly glorious; blended from a number of prime sites across California, before being gently aged in old French oak.

Meursault 2015 Henri Boillot For many, Meursault is the epitome of Chardonnay, and this 5th generation producer is a prime example as to why. Rolling baked apple, sweet spice and lemon zesty freshness play across your palate. Luscious, but fresh, it complements Yum Sa's Penang pie perfectly.

Elysium Black Muscat 2017, Andrew Quady Half Bottle Elysium is Greek for ‘heaven’, which is exactly what this wine tastes like with the sweet and sour notes of a Kokum cheesecake. This wine is all ripe, juicy forest fruits with luscious blackberry sweetness and a slight hint of peppery-spice. An undiscovered gem, elevating any desert to divine status. YUM SA 3 Plaza Gardens, 88 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 2DT

yum-sa.com

Let's brunch V E U V E & G R O OV E S

Yum Sa's weekend Champagne brunch party is a ﬁvecourse feast complete with Veuve Clicquot bubbly and a retro soundtrack. Whether you sit inside their stylish restaurant or al fresco, expect delicious, fresh Thai dishes such as steamed sea bass wrapped in banana leaves and their popular sticky tamarind-rubbed chicken, plus curries, Pad Thai and dim sum. If you're not a Champagne fan, other drinks are available. yum-sa.com

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES

TOP PICKS Asian restaurant Yum Sa's new menu

WORK OF ART S T E A K TA R TA R E

Park life

Yum Sa’s twist on the classic tartare is made with aged prime beef, ponzu & mustard dressing, basil crust and a marinated golden egg yolk with a toasted organic sourdough croute.

BOCCA DI LUPO

Now that picnics are allowed, Bocca di Lupo’s hamper of Italian essentials is perfect for an al fresco feast. The picnic box contains ﬂatbreads, prosciutto, salami, ricotta, grilled aubergines, chocolate cake, Prosecco and more. They’ve thought of everything, with eco-friendly plates, napkins and cutlery included too. boccadilupoathome.com

ROSEWOOD AT HOME

Rosewood London’s at-home delivery offering includes showstopping pies from Holborn Dining Room, elegant high tea from Mirror Room and delicious bottled cocktails from Scarfes Bar. The art afternoon tea is a particular highlight, inspired by the upcoming Kusama exhibition at the Tate Modern. rosewoodhotels.com

PENANG PIE Penang curry originated from the island of Penang on the northwest coast of the Malaysian Peninsula. Yum Sa's vegan curry Penang pie contains pan-roasted king oyster mushrooms, Thai pea aubergine and red quinoa in a thick Penang sauce, topped with a crispy potato, herb and a vegan cheese crust gratin.

FOOD FUSION DININGS SW3

All aboard LONDON SHELL CO

Situated on Regent’s Canal, this floating seafood restaurant aboard The Grand Duchess is launching an outdoor terrace and new summer menu to coincide with the easing of lockdown restrictions. Expect super fresh fish platters, Carlingford oysters and fish rolls, plus you can take away your fish and chips to enjoy along Regents Canal. Sheldon Square, W2 6EP londonshellco.com

CHEESECAKE A beloved dessert all over the world, Yum Sa's twist on the traditional cheesecake is a dried mangosteen and cream cheese cake on a pecan and ginger nut biscuit base with rich coconut and mangosteen ice-cream.

Masaki Sugisaki’s Japanese restaurant will be welcoming diners to its idyllic outdoor terrace from 12 April. The menu brings together traditional Japanese techniques paired with European culinary inﬂuences, including sushi creations and Cornish lobster sliders. Lennox Gardens Mews, SW3 2JH dinings.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Our Pornstar is no longer furloughed!

The Yum Sa Bar celebrates clean and elegant flavours with cocktails such as an applewood smoked, orange marmalade, Nikka Whisky Old Fashioned and a Thai Chillitini with fresh pressed pineapple, Thai chilli infused bamboo and charcoal filtered Haku Vodka finished with a drop of habanero bitters. Come and enjoy our new enomatic machine where exceptional award-winning wines are preserved and served by the glass from all regions of the globe. Our latest partnership with LVMH brings you a wide range of champagnes, cognacs, wines and rum. The bar also houses a humidor with over 12 different cigar options for the discerning.

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An All New Beverage Menu

YUM SA RESTAURANT 3 plaza gardens 88 upper richmond road putney, sw15 2dt (opp east putney tube station)

WWW.YUM-SA.COM 020 3371 9111 #YUMSARESTAURANT

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FOOD & DRINK • MEAL KITS

HAKK ASAN

H O T P L A T E S

OUR FAVOURITE MEAL DELIVERIES OF THE MONTH

Hakkasan's Occasions box is definitely one for an occasion. Six of the most classic Hakkasan dishes come ready to prepare, starting with colourful dim sum in a bamboo steamer, and finishing with an impressive souffle. We loved grilled chilean seabass in honey and smoked beef ribs with jasmine tea. What a treat. £175; hakkasan.com

BARBER ' S BA ZA AR

Award-winning chef Abdul Yaseen's authentic Indian and Pakistani food is a hit in Crouch End, and he's just opened a new restaurant in Kentish Town. The devil tandoori wings, lamb sag bhuna masala and tarka daal are must-orders. barbersbazaar.com

PA R A D I S E Hōtal Paradise is the new at-home experience from the team who brought us the contemporary Sri Lankan restaurant, Paradise. Their Spring Supper meal kit contains ready-to-heat dishes such as pulled pork shoulder, kithul & elderflower caramel, and Northern turmeric dahl, onion & black mustard seeds. dishpatch.co.uk

FA R I N A

This Notting Hill Gate pizzeria has just opened its new site, down the road from the first. It specialises in Neopolitan-style pizzas — simple dough made with live yeast and Caputo flour, slow fermented for up to 48 hours. The result is a light base and puffy crust topped with San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella. farinapizza.co.uk

DA R J E E L I N G EXPRESS This new seven course feast is designed by Asma Khan to cheer us up, and it works. Tasty channa chat and dinky puchkas are a nod to Indian street food, while hearty slow-cooked lamb and spiced Mughlai korma are comforting and multi-layered. Beetroot raita and tomato chuteny accompany. £98 darjeeling-express.com

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KITCHEN GURU Absolutely signs up for Marco Pierre White’s new online cookery course By PENDLE HARTE P h o t o g r a p h y b y R I C H A R D YO U N G

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FOOOD & DRINK • COOKING

Marco’s

Top 5 essentials KNIFE

I use one knife for almost every recipe, and that is all you will need. I recommend investing in a good quality chef’s knife and a small ‘office’ knife for the more fiddly jobs. Keep them clean and keep them sharp and they will be the only knives you will ever need. •

BOILED POTATOES WITH BUTTER

C H O P P I N G B OA R D

A good solid wooden chopping board, or easy to clean plastic board are what I recommend. Make sure to buy a good-size one with plenty of surface on which to work. •

OV E N P R O O F, N O N S T I C K F RY I N G PA N

AVOCADO WITH CRAB

his isn’t standard kitchen speak. The gravelly voice in its half whisper saying: ‘I’m not here to impress you. I’m here to inspire you. Let’s ignite the imagination. Let’s take you somewhere you’ve never been before’. Marco Pierre White, enfant terrible of the British cooking renaissance, is the guru behind BBC Maestro’s course Delicious Food, Cooked Simply. The online learning platform also features David Walliams instructing us in writing for children, Gary Barlow on songwriting and Jed Mercurio in television drama. With learning at home very much flavour of the moment, improving our cooking skills is a popular and worthwhile ambition, and Maestro’s motto is ‘let the greatest be your teacher’. Marco Pierre White has been uncharacteristically quiet in recent years. Widely seen as the first celebrity chef, in 1994 he was both the youngest and the first British chef ever to be awarded three Michelin stars. He trained with Albert and Michel Roux at Le Gavroche and Pierre Koffman at La Tante Claire, and went on to mentor Gordon Ramsay and a generation of budding chefs before retiring in 1999 to become a restaurateur rather than a chef. Pierre White was the original shouty chef, unafraid to bar people from his restaurants for crimes against taste (such as asking for salt) and famously making Gordon Ramsay cry. But there’s no chance of him making anybody cry during the short videos that make up this course. Gone is the hellraiser of the tabloids and in his place

is a low-voiced, grey-haired figure, more Dumbledore than rockstar, a wise sage of the kitchen. We are here to learn to perfect everyday dishes, not to cook cheffy fantasies. A lot of it is about attitude, and philosophy – and more of it is about Marco himself. It’s not even until lesson six that we actually encounter a recipe, and then we’re eased in with anchovies on toast. Beacuse first we’re introduced to the rules according to Marco. “Food enriches people’s lives,” he announces. “Feed people well. They don’t come to be impressed - they come to be fed. And eat while it’s hot – don’t wait for anyone. The only person you wait for is the queen.” He’s certainly entertaining, and his conversation is full of gems that he could release as slogans on teatowels. ‘Cooks accept that mother nature is the true artist,’ he says. And ‘gastronomy is the greatest form of therapy that any misfit can be exposed to.’ And my favourite: ‘A tree without roots is a piece of wood. Think about it.’ He talks about Anthony Bourdain as ‘the most beautiful pied piper’. ‘We live in a world of refinement not invention. Think about it’ So what do we learn? Lots, actually. Starting with scrambled eggs, to which the key is very low heat. Perfect scrambled eggs are cooked in a pan that’s cool enough to touch, slowly. Butter makes everything taste better, is a general rule. “Don’t whisk. It’s not a race. It’s about the eggs and only the eggs. Don’t rush it. Only a fool would rush scrambled eggs.” Then there’s ragu. ‘Don’t make bolognese to serve today. Make it to serve in three or four days’ time. It will be sensational’. The first key is to grate, not chop, the vegetables. And then once they’re in the Le Creuset (always a

Invest well, and look after a frying pan. I suggest a non-stick frying pan with a metal or silicone handle, which means it can be put in the oven. It is important to give yourself that flexibility. Once bought, be sure to maintain your pans properly – try never to scratch the surface with metal utensils and avoid putting through the dishwasher. •

FLAME-PROOF CASSEROLE

I use a flame-proof, cast iron casserole for so much of my home cooking. Between that and the frying pan you almost don’t need any other equipment. They are not cheap, but they are hardy, and they’ll allow you to take your cooking from hob to oven. From a cooking perspective they are important too, as it means you can cook an entire ragù or sauce in one pot, carrying all the flavour through from beginning to end. [Marco’s casserole is a classic orange Le Creuset]. •

S I L I C O N E S PAT U L A

I use this spatula almost as much as I use my knife. It is the wooden spoon’s natural successor. They are shaped perfectly for even stirring.

Le Creuset), do not move the pan. ‘Work your beef,’ he says. Then there’s macaroni cheese: ‘It’s about taking people on a journey of discovery.’ How to avoid lumps in your white sauce? Simple: more butter than flour. A bay leaf, a clove. And then, interestingly, instead of pouring sauce over cooked macaroni, we add the macaroni to the bechamel before adding the cheese in layers. ‘Keep the two flavours apart so you can taste the textures.’ And then cook it under the grill, not the oven. On signing up for the course you’ll receive a full 89 pages of course notes, but many of Marco’s words of wisdom are bound to imprint on your brain. This journey is three and a half hours long and costs £80, less than a meal in any of his restaurants. Think about it. bbcmaestro.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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24/03/2021 15:51

Taste of

SPAIN Recipes from Brindisa, the home of Spanish food in the UK

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Chickpeas Catalan-style with saffron and almond picada Serves 6

An economical, fortifying chickpea dish which combines many flavours, adapted from a Catalan book of traditional recipes called La Cuina que torna.

INGREDIENTS • 600g Perello pedrosillano jarred, cooked chickpeas • 10g bicarbonate of soda (if using dried chickpeas) • 125ml Brindisa Arbequina olive oil • 2 onions, finely chopped • 10 ripe medium tomatoes, grated • OR 300g Brindisa Sofrito tomato and onion sauce • 50g Brindisa blanched almonds, chopped • 10 threads of Brindisa saffron, soaked • a big handful of parsley • 4 cloves of garlic, peeled • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Note: The tomato flavour in this dish should be present, but not overwhelming; however, it does rely on sweet, ripe, seasonal tomatoes, or cherry tomatoes. If you don’t feel you are getting enough flavour from your tomatoes, you could add a jar of bought sofrito de tomate

METHOD Heat the oil in a heavy-based pan, add the onions and cook very gently for about 20 minutes, until translucent and sweet 2 While these are cooking, with a pestle and mortar, pound the chopped almonds with the saffron, parsley and garlic. Blend with another 50ml of the reserved cooking liquid (or water if using jarred chickpeas), and put aside. 3 Add the tomatoes and cook for a further 20 minutes. If you are using sofrito instead of fresh tomatoes, then you only need to stir the sofrito sauce through and warm it. 4 Add the cooked chickpeas together with liquid from the jar, topped up if necessary with water, and heat through. 5 Then add your ground almonds, saffron, parsley and garlic to the pan of chickpeas and sauce. Stir this in well to add depth of flavour to the dish, taste and season. 1

Finger-on-thePulses Salad Serves 4

A hearty salad of pulses and pasta, with a lovely depth of flavour from smokey piquillo peppers, moscatel vinegar and walnuts.

INGREDIENTS • 100g egg-free penne pasta • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • tbsp moscatel vinegar • 1/2 tsp salt • 50g Piquillo pepper strips, very finely chopped • tbsp finely chopped parsley • 350g butter beans, rinsed and well drained • 350g small chickpeas, rinsed and well drained • 50g walnuts, chopped • 350g large green “Castellana” lentils

rinsed and well drained • lemons wedges for serving

METHOD 1 Cook the pasta for 7 minutes. Rinse and drain well. 2 In a large mixing bowl whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice and salt. Stir in the piquillo peppers and parsley. 3 Add the beans, chickpeas and walnuts and stir well to coat. 4 Gently fold in the lentils. 5 Toss gently before serving with lemon wedges. 6 Use the remaining half jars of leftover beans to make a variation of our Winter Warmer Bean Pot recipe 7 If you wanted to experiment with cooking the pulses yourself from dry, you could do so, to add more texture or to try different combinations. You can cook any varietal you like from dry, e.g. pardina lentils, white kidney beans or castellano chickpeas, but it’s quite a fiddle to cook all three types from dry at once, so this recipe uses prepared pulses.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Spanish White Bean and Chickpea Burgers Serves 5

• 700g medium white beans, rinsed and thoroughly drained • 200g cooked round grain rice • 100g grated sweet potato • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus extra for frying • 2 spring onions - green part only, finely chopped • 75g panko breadcrumbs • to accompany - guindilla hot green chillies

METHOD Vegan burgers made with the creamiest of beans and chickpeas. Delicious served with a piquant green guindilla chilli on the side and a cold beer.

INGREDIENTS • 100g Fritada, pepper and tomato sauce • 1 plump clove garlic, finely grated • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp sugar • 1/8 tsp black pepper • 700g large chickpeas, rinsed and thoroughly drained

1 Firstly, remember to pre-cook your round grain rice to make 200g of cooked rice (you will need approximately 60g of raw rice to boil). Follow the cooking instructions on the packet, you may need approx. 20 minutes to do this. 2 In a small pan over low heat simmer the fritada until it reduces by 2/3 to about 2 tbsp, stirring as it reduces (take care as it may spatter). This will take 10-15 mins. 3 Remove from the heat and stir in the garlic, cumin, salt, sugar and

pepper. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and leave for a moment to cool. 4 Add the remaining ingredients, except breadcrumbs, and stir well to combine. 5 Transfer half the mixture to a food processor. Pulse to a fairly smooth paste. Return this smooth half to the mixing bowl, add the breadcrumbs and combine everything well. 6 Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, approx. 2 hours. 7 Place a large frying pan over moderate heat. Add a little olive oil. Shape approximately 10 burgers (return any you don’t wish to cook yet to the fridge or freezer to enjoy another time). 8 Fry until a rich golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Turn gently as they may be crumbly. 9 Serve with Perelló guindilla hot green chillies. 10 If you wanted you could modify the recipe to make approx. 5-6 larger patties, rather than the 10 small ones. They could be served on their own or with buns. brindisa.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“The eatery prides itself on sourcing the freshest ingredients”

JUGHEADS The southwest London hotspot for comfort food at affordable prices

FOOD Simple, good quality grub

B y EVE HERBERT

ounded during lockdown, Jugheads is a homemade burger and hotdog concept on Asian restaurant Yum Sa’s patio. Despite its fast food nature, the eatery prides itself on sourcing the freshest ingredients from farmers, butchers and bakers who share common sustainable values. They are dedicated to ensuring their meats are natural and hormone free, and burgers are 100% Aberdeen Angus grass-fed sirloin beef. Their freshly ground proprietary shack blend is source verified and fully traceable.

DECOR All burgers are cooked medium unless otherwise requested, served on butter & free-range egg brioche. Add rocket, tomato, spicy relish and sauces, from Franks Buffalo and homemade ketchup, to mayonnaise or mustard — whatever you fancy! Hotdogs are not your ordinary sausages but gigantic jumbo German-imported franks served with your choice of sauce and topping. The sausages are a sensational blend of pork and herbs in a delicious natural casing which can be topped with homemade Chilli Con Carne for that extra loaded flavour. Pair the burgers

Al fresco

PRICE Burgers and hotdogs from £5

and hotdogs with their signature Hot Sticky Chicken Wings and Seasoned Crispy Wedges. Jugheads is also developing a new range of vegan burgers with a plant based patty sandwiched between Beetroot Brioche or Charcoal Brioche Buns. Nothing goes together quite like a beer and a burger, and Jugheads has proudly partnered with Singha beer where beer towers of six pints make for a memorable experience. The health conscious can indulge in freshly pressed seasonal juices including fortifications with spirulina, fresh ginger and turmeric. Jugheads is also available for delivery and pick up, making it perfect for home celebrations including much awaited reunions and birthdays. Whether you prefer Angus beefburgers or German hotdogs, Jugheads’ humble shack is the new go-to for tasty comfort food in southwest London.

JUGHEADS

VERDICT A real treat

3 Plaza Gardens, 88 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 2DT

orders.jugheadslondon.com

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CONTACT CLAUDE CLEMARON GUILDFORD 01483 201080 / 07970 962151

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www.quaillondon.com

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020 8899 6051

19/10/2018 11:50

25/03/2021 11:50

FOOD & DRINK • EASTER HARVEY NICHOLS Chocolate Scotch egg, £8.95 harveynichols.com

EDITOR’S PICK

MONTEZUMA Orloff milk chocolate speckled hen, £9.50 xxxxxxxxxxx.com

HIP Oat milk Easter egg, £12.50 hipchocolate.com

LADUREE X CHAPON

PIERRE MARCOLINI

Mini praline Easter eggs gift box, £32 laduree.co.uk

DOISY & DAM

Milk chocolate rabbit, £9.90 marcolini.com

Dark chocolate Easter bundle, £14 doisyanddam.com

JOE & SEPH'S Chocolate popcorn Easter Egg, £18.95 harveynichols.com

EGG HUNT

GAVA Swedish Aggs, from £8 gavagifting.co.uk

All the best Easter eggs, chocolates and treats By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

PLAY IN CHOC Sir rabbits gift set, £15 playinchoc.com

NIEDEREGGER PAUL Spring sharer box, £26.95 paul-uk.com

ALLPRESS

Marzipan solid figures, £4.99 chocolatesdirect.co.uk

Chocolate Easter Eggs By Bennetts Of Mangawhai, £15 allpressespresso.com

BISCUITEERS ROCOCO XXXXXXX xxxxxxxxx; xxxxxxxxx.com

A Fluffle of Bunnies Nibble Bag, £13.50 rococochocolates.com

Easter egg biscuit tin, £35 biscuiteers.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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23/03/2021 23:24

Ann’s Designer Cakes Artisan Cakes for all Occasions

CAKE JARS LUXURY GIFT CAKES

THE PERFECT GIFT TREAT SIZE CAKES IN A RANGE OF FLAVOURS AND GIFT SETS

READER OFFER

10% OFF* WITH CODE COOL10

ORDER ONLINE TODAY www.coolcakesbychris.co.uk

020 8644 8523 | www.annsdesignercakes.com

coolcakesbychris *Offer applies to first Cake Jars order. One use per customer. Valid until 30 April 2021.

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FOOD & DRINK • OUTDOOR

E A T A L F R E S C O

DOUBLE S TA N DA R D The Standard hotel’s bar and restaurant has transformed its outdoor seating area into a beautiful terrace. Guests can enjoy Aperol slushies, cocktails and burgers while soaking up the sun, or, knowing London weather, hiding under a garden umbrella. standardhotels.com

OUTDOOR RESTAURANTS TO VISIT AFTER 12 APRIL

T H E B R I X TO N C O U R T YA R D

You’ll easily wile away a sunny spring afternoon at Brixton Courtyard, which has an outdoor beach, courtyard and terrace. As well as Jamaican-inspired food from Only Jerkin’, the venue will host ‘socially-distanced socials’ such as BBQs, open-deck nights, brunch parties and more. thebrixtoncourtyard.co.uk

THE SIPPING ROOM Part of the Drake & Morgan group, this large al fresco bar and restaurant in West India Quays has a brilliant view of the docks. The menu is mostly casual bar food, from nibbles and sharing boards to burgers and sandwiches, plus a good selection of cocktails and wines. drakeandmorgan.co.uk

2 4

J OY Joy at Portobello Docks is the brain child of chef Stevie Parle and designer Tom Dixon. The wonderful space includes a bar, fresh produce shop The Goods Shed, and pop-up restaurant Flora, all in a beautiful al fresco setting decked out in tulips. Flora's seasonal menu will focus on seafood from a Kentish fishmonger and fresh Welsh catches. joyatportobello.co.uk

C O P PA C LU B Coppa Club Tower Bridge’s famous dining igloos have had a spring makeover, with the pods now decked out in whimsical blooms. Guests can enjoy a selection of seasonal European dishes from generous sharing plates of seared garlic king prawns to fresh pasta of Devon crab linguine with anchovy & chilli and sourdough pizzas. coppaclub.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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ROGER NARULA, OWNER, YUM SA

FOOD MATTERS Hospitality has been hit hard by the pandemic. Restaurateur Roger Narula shares his advice for navigating the industry in 2021 By ROGER NARULA

s the pandemic stretches on, it’s clear that once COVID-19 has waned, the “normal” that we’ll all be living in will be very different from the “normal” we were used to pre-pandemic. Where did we first catch a glimpse of what the future might hold? The restaurant industry! Countless full-service establishments, including my restaurant Yum Sa, have bent over backward to adapt to pandemic conditions and find a way to serve customers who are, and should be, looking for ways to avoid contact at every step of the customer journey. How can restaurants recover? COVID-19 has paved the way for restaurateurs to reflect and assess pre-pandemic operational procedures, moving financialled decisions to the back seat. We have been forced to explore solutions, analyse procedures and respond to a global crisis. Although the pandemic hit full service the hardest, changing social norms and business landscapes will alter the

various restaurant segments for good. As the effects of COVID-19 spread across the entire world, the primary focus for governments and businesses is the safety of their people. Whilst this focus will continue, the implications for economic growth and corporate profits have to lead to a sharp sell-off in equity markets across the globe. We must understand the impact on cash, working capital and profitability. Here are my tips for navigating this difficult time in the restaurant industry.

OPERATIONAL IMPACT AND MITIGATION • Have an extended cash flow forecast for the next six months. Be realistic and have Base and Downside scenarios to understand critical cash points and any breaches of lending covenants. • Manage payments to suppliers. • Minimize all discretionary operational and capital expenditure. Reconsider or postpone maintenance and other capital expenditure where possible in order to conserve cash. • Put an advanced revenue management system and pricing models in place to respond to market developments quickly.

FINANCIAL IMPACT • Assess the equity or debt funding sources available. • Be transparent towards existing lenders and involve them in the mitigating procedures and continuity plans. • Identify alternative lenders that can move quickly to provide short term funding. However, these may have a higher interest charge and fee structure. • Ensure you apply for the tax refunds and other financial relief measures. • Assess the impact on Occupancy and RevPAR and create a plan to mitigate • For investors: know how your operators are affected and identify the type of contracts that are applicable (lease or management). • Talk to your operators to discuss their expectations about the impact on performance. • For operators: assess the impact on Occupancy and RevPAR and create a plan to mitigate risk. • Understand if the loss will be permanent or just delayed. For investors, understand the impact on the operating fees.

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FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP ROGER'S RESTAURANT YUM SA

“There are high costs when operating with Deliveroo — a sign up fee of £600 and 35% commission on orders” Keep plans under active review. This is a dynamic and fast-moving environment. Be prepared to quickly respond to the changes outside of your normal perating and business processes. Why not use this downtime to re-evaluate your business, train your employees and try to develop new products? Become more flexible and look for new opportunities. Despite the uncertainty, London’s restaurateurs have leapt into action to protect their livelihoods and those of their staff, proving that necessity can be the mother of invention. Their first recourse has been to turn to takeaway and delivery. Planning permission for change-of-use to takeaway has been waived for the next 12 months, allowing for a swift transition. Suddenly, in the government’s styleguide, delivery drivers have been promoted from ‘unskilled’ to ‘keyworkers’. As many as 3,000 restaurants have signed up to Deliveroo in the past month. But due to the high costs when

operating with Deliveroo, Uber Eats and other competitors — a sign-up fee of up to £600 and 35% commission on orders — lots of restaurants (including Yum Sa) have come up with their own delivery methods. This is hardly sustainable nor the key to survival (the weekly takings from delivery equates to one busy Thursday evening in pre-Covid times) but it has been a welcome revenue stream for many. For those who make it through, delivery is likely to boost the continued growth of the restaurant industry. Recent studies indicate that restaurants have a job to do in building trust before consumers return to the dining rooms. Research firm Ipsos Mori found that 61% of Britons would feel uncomfortable going to bars and restaurants. 29% said they were happy to go out to eat but just 21% said they would use public transport to get there. For some, the COVID-19 crisis presents the world of food with a precious opportunity to make changes for the

better. This has shown us how broken the food system is and how challenging it is for restaurants. When this is over, I really hope we don’t forget about important issues such as sustainability. Creating worry-free, safer places for all to enjoy is a priority for us at Yum Sa. We have been working in partnership with Shield Safety Group to ensure the Yum Sa premises is Safe to Trade. Our mission is to bring back some normality to create a safe, relaxed experience for everyone. In conjunction with the Shield Safety Group, we have conducted a rigorous risk assessment, self-assessment, remote food safety audit and eLearning courses to ensure we were confident to reopen and start trading again. We want all of our guests and colleagues to feel confident that our business has gone above and beyond Government guidelines to ensure protection and prevention of COVID-19 transmission, and this has been integral to our reopening. A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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24/03/2021 16:03

Our appointment book is open from the 12th April, just go to ameliesfollies.co.uk and use the Book a Fitting button. We will operate by appointment only for the foreseeable future. We can’t wait to see you all.

GIFT VOUCHER AND GIFT WRAPPING AVAILABLE LINGERIE • NIGHTWEAR • SWIMWEAR BEACHWEAR • NURSING BRAS

34 Webb’s Road, London SW11 6SF

Lingerie and swimwear from A to J cup (size 8 to 20)

www.ameliesfollies.co.uk | ameliesfollies@yahoo.com

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Tel: 020 7924 3826

24/03/2021 11:01

FA S H I O N

LADY IN RED VALLE&VIK

This new London coolgirl brand was founded by Norwegian designer Silje Vallevik, and each piece is made entirely from silk and organic cotton. The Cannes Do dress in Vamp Red can be worn to a black tie event (remember those?!) just as easily as it can be thrown on with a knit and trainers. £415 valleandvik.com

Q&A with Aspiga 40 • Sustainable sneakers 43 • Diamond jewellery 48 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERVIEW

FAIR FROCKS Absolutely meets Lucy Macnamara of Aspiga, the growing fashion brand that’s totally dedicated to sustainability By PENDLE HARTE

LUCY MACNAMARA, WEARING ASPIGA

ucy Macnamara isn’t the typical fashion person. Yes, she runs a thriving fashion company and spends her days thinking about fabrics, cuts and colours, but her vocation isn’t really to do with clothes. Macnamara’s charity background and enormous enthusiasm for travel and sustainability led her to set up a fashion company that exists to stimulate fair trade with international artisans and, ultimately, to save the planet, as well as making nice things to wear. It’s a big ambition and one that goes beyond the urge for a new dress, but her business is currently celebrating both 15 years of trading and a shortlisting in Drapers’ Sustainable Fashion Awards. Aspiga – named for Lucy’s first horse – offers a surprisingly enormous collection, and as an entirely sustainable business it’s the antithesis of exploitative fast fashion. Mostly these are clothes designed for holidays – floaty dresses, beachwear, sandals, cotton tops, kaftans – but there’s also a growing selection of other things. Knitwear, trainers, dog collars. Even menswear. Lucy is clearly someone who loves taking things on, though she thinks she should probably stop. “We just keep adding,” she says. Originally the business started with sandals. Lucy says: ‘In 2003, I went on holiday to Kenya and was awestruck by the artistry and craftsmanship I discovered. Delicate, hand-beaded sandals.

Intricately adorned belts. Beautiful, bright jewellery.” She set out to bring them to a wider audience and to trade them fairly, and it grew from there. Lucy spent two years developing the Aspiga sandal collection, while working part time at the Business in the Community charity, where she was a key member of the team for over 12 years. When

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FASHION • PROFILE

ASPIGA she launched the collection to trade in 2005, at Top Drawer, it was snapped up by 40 stockists – so she left the day job to dedicate her energies to Aspiga. Kenyan sandals continued to be her main focus, along with Masai jewellery and belts until five years ago when she began to introduce clothes. Since then, it’s all been about refining her sustainability commitment. ‘We aim to use entirely chemical-free materials - at the moment we’re using 95% organic cotton and hope for that to be 100% soon,’ says Lucy. She’s always improving – they have stopped using any man-made fibres and are offsetting their carbon footprint with Carbon Click, plus she’s certified with B Corp, the standard for sustainable business. Aspiga’s aims are wide-ranging – they’re now involved in an initiative for collecting plastic rubbish from Kenyan beaches and taking it to recycling, and for every pair of sandals sold the company pays someone’s school fees. In 2019, Lucy opened the first Aspiga pop-up on the King’s Road, which has become an annual event every June. Last summer’s pop-up in St Mawes was a huge success and will reopen in May, and this year there are plans to open retail outlets in Wiltshire and Worcestershire, as well as a beach boutique in Polzeath, Cornwall. The new collection includes a vast range of dresses and holiday fashion. So for a guiltfree fashion fix, you know where to go.

Spri ng/Summer POP-UPS O P E N I NG 12 A P R I L ST. M AW E S , C O R N WA L L Aspiga at Onda, 14 Commercial Road, St Mawes, TR2 5DN •

WA D E B R I D G E , P O L Z E AT H The Mowhay, Trebetherick, Wadebridge PL27 6SE • W I LTO N , W I LT S H I R E The Courtyard, The Guild Wilton, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP2 0BH • C H E L S E A , LO N D O N 123 Sydney Street, SW3 6NR 7 - 20 June

“Her fashion company exists to save the planet – as well as making nice things to wear”

aspiga.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Our Opening Hours Mondays - Saturdays 10am - 5pm Sundays 11am - 4pm

manukashoes.com 01959 565644 Sizes 2-8 available

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FASHION • TRAINERS

L AC E D U P WHISTLES

N E X T S T E P S

SUSTAINABLE SNEAKERS ARE A WARDROBE STAPLE

Whistles' Sustainable Trainer Project is a capsule shoe collection made with eco-friendly materials such as biodegradable leather and suede, regenerated wool and recycled polyester. The Chilton Trainer has a chunky sole for the illusion of longer legs. £139 whistles.com

GO GREEN ALLBIRDS

The Allbirds Treedasher trainers are a high tech running shoe made with natural materials. The upper is from eucalyptus trees, the SweetFoam™ sole from sugarcane and there's Merino wool for extra comfort around the heel. We love this cheerful mint green called Cyclone. £120 allbirds.co.uk

WA L K T H I S WAY V E JA

Veja has become the 'it' trainer brand you see everyone from celebrities to busy mums wearing. The Campo shoes are made with ChromeFree leather, a tanning process which doesn't use hazardous chrome, heavy metals or acids. £115 veja-store.com

OLD SOLE S AY E

5 4

Saye's vintage-style sneakers are made in Portugal with organic and recycled materials. For every pair sold, they plant two trees with 150,000 trees planted and counting. Pictured are the Modelo '89s in Garnet, which are available in multiple colours as well as vegan leather. £122 sayebrand.com

V EG A N V I S I O N A D I DA S

Stella McCartney's vegan take on the iconic Adidas x Stan Smith plimsoles were released last year. The leather-free design has illustrations of the designers on the tongue and two lace options, rainbow and white. £235 stellamccartney.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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23/03/2021 23:41

M A K E T H E C U T Stella Mccartney makes way for her most sustainable collection yet, with 80% eco-friendly materials S T E L L A M C C A R T N E Y. C O M

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25/03/2021 12:28

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25/03/2021 12:28

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Let it shine

Diamond is the April birthstone, and these are a cut above the rest By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

ELI-O

DIAMOND STORE

ANNOUSHKA

Natural Diamond Halo Engagement Ring, POA eli-o.ch

Athena Diamond Drop Earrings, £1,475 thediamondstore.co.uk

Hidden Reef 18ct Gold Diamond Cuff, £25,000 annoushka.com

DINNY HALL

GFG JEWELLERY

MATILDE

Shuga 14k Gold Pave Diamond Huggie Hoops, £995 dinnyhall.com

Project 2020 Diamond Ring, £4,750 gfgjewellery.com

Azulejo Pendant Necklace, £750 matildejewellery.com

PHOEBE COLEMAN

SHAHLA KARIMI

LEO AND LUMI

Rays of Light Solitaire Diamond Sunbeam Set, from £7890 phoebecoleman.com

Gold Sounds Necklace No. 3 Patricia Neal, $795 shahlakarimi.com

Ophelia Bracelet, £150 leoandlumi.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/03/2021 11:29

skin-fluencer.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

SMOKE & M I RRO RS CHANEL

Backstage at Chanel's FallWinter 2021/22 Ready To Wear collection, models listened to Diana Ross while being made up with a grundge smokey eye and heavy kohl. In our new era of masks, it's all about the eyes. chanel.com

Beauty notes 53 • A guide to breathwork 59 • The best activewear 61 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

EDITOR’S PICK

SKIN STATUS

By MICHAELLA BOLDER

Founded by Roger Dupé, this Swedish brand is inspired by the model’s West African roots. The range focuses on concerns for darker skin tones and comprises a Milk Cleanser, Detox Serum, Day Cream and Night Cream, plus a range of handcrafted soaps. From £18; melyon.co

Rosy cheeks D E R M ATO LO GY M

The Organic Rose Otto Rejuvenating Face Cream contains a blend of Chinese herbs and botanicals such as the potent antioxidant bakuchiol and organic rosehip oil. It noticeably improves the texture, radiance and hydration of mature skin, plus, it’s vegan, halal and free from controversial ingredients. £68; dermatology-m.com

VIEVE

Scottish makeup artist and social media star Jamie Genevieve’s cosmetics line Vieve is bold, versatile and high-performance. The new soft-matte Sunset blushes come in five flattering shades, from the juicy Pesca to the berry-toned Malbec. £23, cultbeauty.co.uk

GO FOR BRONZE St. Tropez's expert tips for a flawless self tan

M E LYO N S K I N CA R E

BOLD BLUSH

FOCUS

elf tanning can go seriously wrong. Orange patches, uneven streaks and stained sheets are just a few of the fake tan faux pas that can happen if we don’t use the right products and techniques. With summer around the corner, skincare & tanning expert Michaella Bolder shares her advice for mastering the bronzed glow. “Pay particular attention to skin preparation; start by removing any unwanted hair (ideally 24 hours before) then remove any leftover tan on the skin with St.Tropez Fake Tan Remover & Primer Mousse (£14.50) before exfoliating the skin with a scrub or mitt in the shower. If you don’t have any leftover tan, you still need to buff all over with an oil-free shower gel to lift off unwanted dead skin cells. Finish your shower with cold water over your legs to close the pores. “On the day of applying your tan, always use a clean tanning mitt and apply an oil-free moisturiser. Next, use four pumps of the St.Tropez Ashley Graham Limited Edition Ultimate Glow Kit (£38) on the mitt and glide in long sweeping motions over the whole body (leave the hands and feet out for now). The key here is more product on the mitt, as this allows a smoother fluid application and even coverage. Once the body is covered, simply spritz hands and feet with the St.Tropez Purity Face Mist (£22)." ST TROPEZ X ASHLEY GRAHAM

Limited Edition Ultimate Glow Kit, £38 uk.sttropeztan.com

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“Skinfluencer pairs cutting edge treatments with a luxury experience”

BEAUTY & BRAINS Sharin Shafer left corporate America for the London aesthetics scene, with dreams of building a skin empire. Absolutely finds out more

By EVE HERBERT

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

hile bespoke haute couture and limitededition handbags crafted from crocodile skin are undisputedly synonymous with luxury, skincare was not really viewed in the same league as these sartorial offerings – until now. With a flagship clinic in Chelsea, Skinfluencer is an aesthetics brand with a unique concept: that is, to offer medical-grade treatments through a concierge-like client journey in the most incredible boutique setting. With plans to expand to Paris in late 2021 and a skincare line in development, the brand is redefining its genre, making it the very definition of luxury. The visionary behind Skinfluencer, Sharin Shafer, previously a coup de force in corporate America and a known face in well-heeled Texas society circles, believes skin not only warrants but benefits from investment; this was one of the founding principles behind

“We have curated the best technologies available on the market” her establishing the affluent brand. “I always wanted makeup-free skin, and as a woman in my 50s, I value aesthetic treatments that faithfully help to maintain a natural, youthful appearance and which liberate me from wearing heavy makeup to cover my many imperfections. I saw an opportunity to offer something I found missing in the aesthetics industry. Namely, to pair cutting edge treatments with a luxury experience. Like me, our clients aren’t necessarily based in one city, so my dream is to duplicate the concept in key cities around the globe so that our clients can benefit from the Skinfluencer experience wherever life takes them. I’m from Texas, where we think big!” Intrigued by the advancements in energybased skincare technologies and aesthetic techniques, Shafer has made these the cornerstones of Skinfluencer’s unique menu of protocols, as well as including popular aesthetic go-to favourites such as injectables. “Aside from a luxury service whereby we guide our clients through their treatment journey, we offer truly gamechanging treatment results,” Shafer says. The clinic’s ability to treat all manner of skin concerns can be attributed to it being armed with all the latest “hero” technologies such as the Cutera Enlighten III, the Fotona Dynamis Pro, the Cutera Secret RF, Cutera XEO Limelight, and CoolSculpting, something that few other clinics can boast. But, more importantly, Skinfluencer offers a range of treatment protocols which uniquely combine and layer energies and techniques. By manipulating energies such as radiofrequency, ultrasound and light, and ensuring they work to complement each other, each protocol (whose quirky names include Glow Baby Glow and Pucker Up) “push the boundaries of what is possible to achieve with an aesthetics treatment,” explains Shafer. Another testament to Skinfluencer’s excellence is its expert team. The brand’s in-house team of doctors and aestheticians are global leaders in their fields. They must also complete “Skinfluencer-U”, which is

an intensive training programme to master the brand’s protocols. “With their expert knowledge about the science behind the skin, they can use our protocols to curate a bespoke treatment plan that meets the client’s objectives and optimises results. We have curated the best technologies available on the market and assembled an unrivalled clinical team who understand how to optimise treatment results. There is not a condition we cannot treat.” The brand’s offerings do not end with the face, as it offers slimming treatments in its spacious Slimfluencer Suite, and more medical-based treatments for veins and benign lesions. With the support of a panel of world-class doctors and therapists, Skinfluencer has the tools, techniques, and expertise to address all manner of aesthetic concerns. “No two people have the same skin and no one person has the same issues with his or her skin on any given day — or at every stage — in his or her life. We have the experience and technology to create bespoke treatment plans for every skin type, age, and condition, whatever it may be, so we can help you achieve your skin goals!”

S K I N F LU E N C E R 307 Fulham Road, Chelsea, SW10 9QH skin-fluencer.com

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MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE v

with T H E www.thesoke.uk SOKE

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

EDITOR’S PICK

BEAUTIFY Rose Gold Eyebrow and Eyelash Set, £11.99 btfy.com

UPCIRCLE Tube Squeezer Key, £1.50 upcirclebeauty.com

FOREO Serum Serum Serum, £48 foreo.com

BRUSHWORKS Ice Roller, £14.99 soinvogue.com

BODYFRIEND GLED Mask, €1,300 en.bodyfriend.fr

RÉDUIT Spa Skinpod Applicator, £179 lookfantastic.com

FLEXI SKIN The Cleanser, £60 flexiskinlondon.co.uk

SMART BEAUTY

GREEN PEOPLE

At-home beauty is getting high tech; here are the best tools to try

Jade Gua Sha Massage Tool, £12.50 greenpeople.co.uk

By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

JOJO GLOW ANGELA CAGLIA

Microfibre Cleansing Pads, £18 jojoglow.co.uk

Rose Quartz Eye Mask, £110 alittlefi nd.com

ESKER Dry Brush, £18 alittlefi nd.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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We believe it is very important to discuss your expectations of your treatment with the person who will be performing it. So, please reach out to book a free consultation. eternal face and body clinic eternal clinic

Eternal Clinic run by international expert and key opinion leader, aesthetic practitioner and cosmetic dermatologist Beata Cybulska offering customised advanced non-surgical cosmetic treatments using state of art lasers and LED light, medical grade skin peels and skincare and advanced dermal filler treatments. SIGNATURE TREATMENTS Eternal 6D Laser Facelift, Eternal Eye Solutions, Eternal Lips, Eternal Teens, Eternal Man, Eternal Woman, Intimate rejuvenation. TOP TREATMENTS Laser skin resurfacing, skin tightening, removal of pigmentation, veins, scars and stretchmarks, nose job, lips injections, liquid facelift, body contouring, cellulite. TOP CONDITIONS Facial ageing, sun damage, pigmentation, dark circles, eye bags, skin laxity, scars, stretchmarks, dilated veins, facial and bikini hair removal, laser eyebrows shaping. BOOK NOW www.eternal.clinic | info@eternal.clinic 07710 521619 (24 hours) | 01932 300340 (office hours) EC.indd 1

24/03/2021 11:56

HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

TOP

PICKS Breathwork Classes

FITNESS NOTES By A B B I E S C H O F I E L D

TA R A N A S H Kundalini Yoga instructor Tara Nash’s uplifting yoga sessions involve an opening chant followed by repetitive movements, and a closing meditation or song. She also specialises in ‘Revelation Breathwork’ with classes every Sunday at 8pm. tara-nash.com

B R E AT H ZO N E Melike runs Instagram Live sessions four times a week: Mondays at 9am and Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 6pm. @breathzonelondon

D EEP BREAT H Are you breathing properly? Melike Hussein, founder of Breathzone, provides tips for insomnia, anxiety and fitness

I N S O M N I A

F LO U R I S H Richie Bostock, also known as The Breath Guy, is a world leader in breathwork. He has launched an app called Flourish, allowing users to practise breathing exercises anywhere via live or recorded classes, with support from the app’s community. thebreathguy.com

 Insomnia and other sleep issues arise when our nervous system is not in balance and remains in elevated sympathetic ‘fight or flight’ state. Slow breathing at six breaths per minute is proven to be the most effective breathing technique to sleep well. It works by balancing the autonomic nervous system. Breathing in through the nose, inhale to the count of five. Breathing out

through the nose (or mouth as comfortable), exhale to the count of five. Repeat for ten breaths.

A N XI E T Y  Ruminating about the past or future is shown to be one of the main causes anxiety. Slow, elongated exhales can immediately calm the mind and focus the attention to the present moment. Breathing in through the nose, inhale to the count of four. Exhale through the mouth with

pursed lips (like you’re blowing out candles) to the count of eight. Repeat at least three times.

FI TN ESS  Diaphragmatic breathing is the most anatomically correct and efficient way to breathe – enabling maximum oxygen intake with the least effort. Therefore, it is the one to be mastered to boost your fitness. Lie on your back on a flat surface with your knees bent and place one hand on your upper chest and the other on your belly. Breathing in through the nose, inhale slowly and deeply towards your lower belly. The hand on your chest should remain still, while the one on your belly should rise Tighten your abdominal muscles and let them fall inward as you exhale through mouth with pursed lips. @Breathzonelondon breathzone.com

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▶ Less

Stress ▶ More Energy ▶ Better Life

With Integrative Coach and Therapist

Byfleet Village, Surrey & Harley Street, London 0345 130 0854 yourempoweredself.co.uk

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S W E A T I N S T Y L E ACTIVEWEAR PICKS FOR OUR RETURN TO GYMS

FIT KIT

POCKET SPORT

Thanks to lockdown and working from home, comfort has reached new levels of importance, and Pocket Sport's activewear is functional for fitness but stylish and easy enough for everyday life. Leggings £48, Bra £38 pocket-sport.com

TIED UP TA L A

Every time sustainable activewear brand Tala drops a new collection, it sells out almost instantly. They've now moved into sleepwear and accessories, like these silky scrunchies that prevent damage and frizz caused by elastics. £10 wearetala.com

SHORT STUFF WO L F & W H I ST L E

Wolf & Whistle's teal shorts are made from a non-slip thick airtex jersey that stays in place while you workout. Ideal for yoga, running and cycling in summer, there's also a thick waistband for extra core support. £18 playfulpromises.com

WAT E R B A BY

H O R I Z O N AT H L E T I C

Founded by athlete Marlena Gabriel, Horizon Athletic's active and swim range is made with a recyled fibre from old fishing nets. The swimsuits can withstand UV, chlorine, sea salt and suncream. From £50 horizonathletic.co.uk

C O LO U R P O P A NTHROPOLOGIE

Retro-style brand Kachel's new activewear range is now available at Anthropologie. From florals to animal print, each piece is covered with Kachel's signature bold colours and patterns, including this tie-dye loungewear set. Joggers £68 anthropologie.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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When it comes to your health, you deserve the very best A world-class preventative health programme carefully tailored to your individual needs - now available right on your doorstep. Bringing together two world-renowned names in healthcare and medical research, the Health and Wellness Plan from Mayo Clinic Healthcare in partnership with Oxford University Clinic combines access to an unrivalled network of international medical experts with world-class diagnostic and screening facilities. Developed for discerning individuals who expect and deserve the very best, we help you to take a proactive approach to your health for a healthier, happier future for you and your family.

Book with us now:

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Email:

appointments@mch-ouc.co.uk

Website:

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21/02/2020 14:54

HEALTH & BEAUTY • Q&A

Q&A

T H E L U X E E X P E R I E N C E Q&A with Sharin Shafer, the petite Texan who's a big force behind Skinfluencer QYou are positioning Skinfluencer as a luxury aesthetics brand. What does this mean to you? A I think heritage fashion brands get it right. Brands such as Celine, Dior and Hermès represent quality, luxury and longevity, yet they always remain relevant and fresh. I have the same vision for Skinfluencer—to be that trusted heritage brand within the aesthetics industry that represents uncompromising quality in every aspect of our business. Q Tell us more about the Skinfluencer experience. A It starts and stops with the client experience. My grandfather built a company that, after nearly 90 years in business, has about 500 retail stores. He taught me to treat every customer equally, never cut corners on quality, and that your employees are the backbone of your business.Focus on client service, create the best product

on the market, don’t compromise on quality, and build and support a team that delivers on your vision at every turn. Q Skinfluencer is synonymous with luxury. What are some things you have done to ensure the message of luxury is clear as part of the Skinfluencer experience? A For me, luxury is about quality, and an elegance that transcends time and trends. From the cutting edge technologies that support our treatment protocols, to the sustainable materials we selected for our clinic interiors and the concierge service we provide for our clients, we do not compromise on standards. Q The Skinfluencer interiors are beautiful. Do they add to that luxury Skinfluencer experience? A Yes, our boutique interiors are an integral part of what makes Skinfluencer a luxury experience for our clients. Like

our treatments, our interiors are fully bespoke and designed with our exclusive clientele in mind, with the aim of making them feel relaxed and welcome. Londonbased design house Maria Tibblin created beautiful interiors and really delivered on quality and luxury. Maria specialises in creating “healthy” luxurious interiors with sustainability at their core. Her holistic approach partners beauty with science, dovetailing beautifully with Skinfluencer’s brand aesthetic. Q Besides luxury, what is another key element of the Skinfluencer experience? A Some clients are initially intimidated and uneasy about embarking on a journey to transform their skin—especially our male clients. This is why I am mindful that the experience should make our clients feel at ease, comfortable and cared for. Our interior designer’s unique “Five Senses” approach helps to support, stimulate and rejuvenate the human senses. Her holistic approach that partners beauty with science is very much in line with my sensibility for the Skinfluencer experience. QSkinfluencer is planning to open other branches. How closely will the new branches adhere to the Chelsea flagship? A My dream is to grow Skinfluencer into a global brand so that our clients can continue their treatment protocols without compromise wherever life may take them. It is important that clients enjoy the same Skinfluencer experience in any branch. I curated a signature scent for our clinics because subtle triggers, such as scent, can bring to mind the Skinfluencer experience. Luxury is about these type of details.

S K I N F LU E N C E R 307 Fulham Road, SW10. skin-fluencer.com

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INTERIORS

AM E R I CA N DREAM FA R R OW & BA L L X K E L LY W E A R ST L E R

Kelly Wearstler's new collection of paint for Farrow & Ball is now available to purchase online. The California Collection offers a palette of eight fresh, sun-soaked paint hues and represents the first colour collection created by an outside designer since the paint company’s founding in 1946. Pictured is Faded Terracotta. farrow-ball.com

Interior inspirations 66 • Ottoline's patterns 72 • Kitchen trend 79 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS N OT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home By PENDLE HARTE

PRETTY P L AT E S CASA CUBISTA

Founded in the pretty Portuguese fishing town of Olhão, Casa Cubista works with talented artisans to create bright and bold pieces, driven by a passion for craft and heritage, combined with an unerring eye for contemporary design. The name refers to the uniquely tessellated white houses of Olhão’s old town and the range is new at Liberty. libertylondon.com

CO R D P R AC T I C E SOFAS & STUFF

With its origins in fashion, corduroy is highly durable, creating a modern look without compromising on comfort. Sofas and Stuff are offering cord for all their sofas. sofasandstuff.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Floral bouquets

POLLENET Bunches from £35 pollenetflowers.co.uk

CO LO U R POP POLKRA

PAT T E R N CU T S PENNY MORRISON

Penny Morrison interiors pair unexpected pieces, patterns and palettes to create harmonious rooms brimming with colour and spontaneity. From fabric to tableware, lamps and cushions, these are interiors that ooze style and personality. pennymorrison.com

FLOWARD Mixed bouquets from £61 floward.com

FLOWARD Weekly bloom subscription, £172 per month floward.com

SHIDA PRESERVED FLOWERS Hand-tied dried flowers from £36 shirda.florist

These pretty and colourful glass tumblers are hand-blown by skilled artisans, so no two are exactly alike. Light and fine, the hundreds of air bubbles add to the charm of this exciting range designed for everyday dining. Set of six, £42 polkra.com

ART OF GLASS NEIL IRESON

Neil Ireson creates original stained glass which create a stunning feature in the form of a work of art to enhance any environment. Stained glass can illuminate interior spaces where there is no natural light, and can be incorporated inside and outside. neilireson.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Rebel R ses

Bespoke Faux Flowers 30 Elizabeth Street London | SW1W 9RB By appointment

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rebelrosesinfo@gmail.com 07738 064 956 www.rebelroses.co.uk

2020-12-15 11:34 AM

INTERIORS • RUGS CALIFORNIA POPPY

WEST COAST

GIRLS

Absolutely admires California Dreaming, The Rug Company’s new collaboration with fashion designers Rodarte By EVE HERBERT

R “California and the poppies have become a constant theme of reference for us”

enowned in the fashion world, sisters Kate and Laura Mulleavy have created two new designs that explore a sense of nostalgia for their Californian home. Inspired by their mother’s artwork, California’s vast poppy fields and 70s interiors, this collection offers a romantic escape in true Rodarte style. Based in Los Angeles, Kate and Laura Mulleavy founded Rodarte in 2005 and are internationally recognised for their conceptual and ethereal fashion designs. The duo’s first collaboration depicted their iconic style through fairytale fantasies, natural materials and their childhood in Northern California. While this collaboration still maintains Rodarte’s DNA, the collection explores a deeper sense of nostalgia and admiration for their home. ‘We found our mother’s papercut of California poppies when we were young and saved it, knowing how special the artwork was – since then, California and the poppies have become a constant theme of reference for us.’ The eponymous California Poppy features striking red and orange petals, with delicate green stems that float across the natural wood background. This poppy design is archetypal to Rodarte and was originally

DAPHNE

inspired by their mother’s artwork, which applied a cut-out technique to form the poppy pattern - not dissimilar in style to Matisse. The poppy is also emblematic of home in a broader sense, representing California as the state flower. Crafted with a soft wool base and highlighted with silk, the gentle floral motif gleams like a bloom in sunlight. This dispersed design insights a sense of freedom, memorialising the sister’s admiration for their childhood home. In true Rodarte style, Daphne illustrates a dramatic, romantic and nostalgic flair, an inspiration for their tenth anniversary AW16 collection. With a clear nod to the 1970s, Daphne is reminiscent of the shag rug iconic to the era, offering a sense of undeniable escapism. A lesser-known inspiration is the Daphnis moth, whose symmetrical pattern and intricate markings appealed to the sister’s furious imagination. To capture the delicacy of a wing, the rug has been woven with the finest silk and wool, creating a compact rich texture while appearing feathery and unrestrained. Contrasting tones seamlessly combine throughout the design with the lustre of silk inspiring the illusion of a wing in motion. therugcompany.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • TREND

CIELSHOP Organic Cotton Faces Rug, £89.99 cielshopinteriors.com

FERM LIVING Amass long pile rug, £219 roseandgrey.co.uk

COX & COX Sigrid rug, £175 coxandcox.co.uk

KINFOLK DECOR Circle Woven Jute Rug , £39 kinfolkdecor.co.uk

FERM LIVING

EDITOR’S PICK

Tufted polar bear head rug, £75 roseandgrey.co.uk

BRAIDED RUG COMPANY

STEP ON CORRIGAN STUDIO

EDITOR’S PICK

Waynesville rug, £169.99 wayfair.co.uk

Pashmina organic jute rug, £79 braided-rug.co.uk

Absolutely the best rugs to buy now By P E N D L E H A R T E

HAY Bias rug, from £199 hay.dk

BLOOMINGVILLE Marlin Rug, £90 sweetpeaandwillow.com

SONYA WINNER RUG STUDIO After Albers deep rug, £2,027 sonyawinner.com

MADE.COM Drax Berber style rug, £179 made.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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RO LL with it Absolutely meets fabric and wallpaper designer of the moment, Ottoline de Vries Words P E A R L B OY D

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • FABRIC

Q&A Q It’s unusual to meet a lawyer-turned designer.

How did the switch come about? A It all started when my kids were toddlers and I wanted

to decorate their bedroom. I started off upcycling vintage furniture and using wallpaper from existing brands. My interest was piqued by all the colours and patterns. I gradually fell down the rabbit hole of researching all sorts of designs and started coming up with my own. I took evening classes in graphic design and things snowballed from there. From the moment I held the first roll of a wallpaper I had designed, I was hooked. Q Your style is distinctive. Can you describe it? A That’s a difficult one! I take inspiration from so many

things – the natural world, different cultures, art from exhibitions I have seen and places I have visited... Perhaps bold and colourful? A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • FABRIC

“I’m definitely an advocate of more is more but without it feeling crazy” and will often use these rooms as backdrops for trying out my designs and doing setups for photos. Sometimes it overflows into other parts of the house... Luckily my husband and my kids are very good about it. Q What other designers do you admire? A I love the colours and playfulness of Matisse as well

as all other strong and messy Fauvism art. The colours, shapes and unexpectedness of Russian avant garde art are very appealing to me. Many designers nowadays seem inspired by artists from that period. I’m sure it’s one of the reasons why I like the playful work of Luke Edward Hall so much. But I’m also inspired by the beauty of Flora Roberts’ realistically painted flowers and the classic wallpapers of William Morris. There are too many inspiring designers out there to give a satisfying answer to this question. Ottoline’s fabrics and wallpapers are stocked at The Fabric Collective thefabriccollective.com

Q Your collection includes a lot of stripes and

some geometrics as well as having a very handdrawn feel, which is remarkable. Is that fair to say? A I like being able to coordinate multiple patterns around a similar colour scheme. Often something organic will sit well with something geometric, which will sit well with stripes, etc. So in a way I think the stripes and geometrics complement the ones you mentioned have that ‘hand-drawn’ feel. Q What is your best-selling print? A Improvisation Number 1 Q And what was your first design? A My first design was Skyline The Hague, a sketch of

buildings and landmarks in my then home town. Q What is your own home like? A My own home is ever evolving - I’m not afraid of mixing

lots of patterns, colours and styles, and I love my vintage finds. I’m definitely an advocate of more is more but without it feeling crazy. I aim to create something a bit bold yet kind of classic. I use the front rooms as my studio, A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • TREND

THE MULTILOCAL Roxy Peshtemal, £70 themultilocal.com

ANTIPODREAM Gordon effect ripple cushion, £49 antipodream.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Loveseat in burnt orange velvet, £1,250 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

AUDENZA Coral enamel vase, £68 audenza.com

CULT FURNITURE Penelope accent chair, £149 cultfurniture.com

EDITOR’S PICK

THE HAIRPIN LEG COMPANY Hairpin table with orange legs, £229.95 thehairpinlegcompany.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK PEG AND BOARD Coral orange memo board, £75 pegandboard.com

LIFE IN ORANGE

OKA UK Contorno cusion cover, £60 oka.com

The future's bright... By P E N D L E H A R T E

WALLS AND FLOORS WOODCHIP & MAGNOLIA Plumage OrangeFuchsia Wallpaper, £85 woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

Scintilla Paprika Orange Star Pattern Tiles, £24.95, wallsandfloors.co.uk

KITCHENAID Stand mixer in honey, £529 kitchenaid.co.uk

YORKSHIRE FABRIC SHOP Piccadilly Collection Gingham Fabric, £22.99 yorkshirefabricshop.com

LE CREUSET Cast iron round cassserole, from £170 lecreuset.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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STAINED GLASS ARTIST Neil Ireson has been creating inspirational and beautiful stained glass windows over the last thirty-five years in London and the surrounding Home Counties. He creates original stained glass in both residential and commercial buildings which create a stunning feature in the form of a work of art to enhance any environment. This can be in any period or contemporary style required by the client. For further information please contact Neil Ireson 07793 085885 info@neilireson.com

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Home Landing is the home of fine tea towels; a website for textile enthusiasts. Browse through the collections of printed and woven tea towels ranging from fun loving and classic cotton prints, fine printed Italian linens, rustic woven French linens, design led coloured French jacquard tea towels and classic Irish linen glass cloths. There is something for everyone.

Bright new kitchen textiles – “Sous les Citronniers” – Under the Lemon Tees by Jacquard Français – woven in 100% cotton

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Items available from www.home-landing.com or 01635 48521 24/03/2021 11:18

25/03/2021 11:50

Churchill

C U R TA I N C L E A N I N G S E R V I C E S

When only the best really matters Churchill Curtain Cleaning Services are London’s leading specialist cleaners of interlined curtains, drapes, swags and tails, pelmets, fabric blinds, nets and voiles using advanced cleaning and finishing equipment and employing skilled and security checked personnel.

NO SHRINKAGE GUARANTEE

Working in London’s finest homes and business premises since 1963. Recommended and endorsed by leading designers, curtain makers and stores. Churchill remains a market leader, proud of a client base that reflects it’s own standards. 30 Kings Road, London E4 7JE

020 7225 2323

info@curtaincleaners.com curtaincleaners.com

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CURTAIN CALL INSPIRED INTERIORS Our redesigned and extended showroom is now open, incorporating a large Luxaflex design studio showing the latest motorised blinds, nestled alongside nearly new curtains and a huge choice of fabrics to be made to measure as curtains and blinds Please call for Showroom appointments

Opening Hours: Tues-Sat 10am to 5pm • Closed Wed from 1pm 52 Friars Stile Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6NQ 020 8332 6250 • curtaincall@blueyonder.co.uk

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INTERIORS • KITCHENS

C U P B O A R D

L O V E Why a British Standard kitchen is the ultimate in style and practicality By EVE HERBERT

ritish Standard make beautifully simple wooden cupboards that are delivered to your door ready made. The affordable range is underpinned by a commitment to craftsmanship, an obsession with design and a belief that creativity in the home should be celebrated. British Standard also provide a free design service that enables customers to identify a layout that is as enduring and practical as the cupboards themselves. British Standard launched in 2012 in response to growing demand for pared-back, well-made, affordable cupboards that would

work in any room. The company’s creative director is Katie Fontana, co-founder of the bespoke luxury kitchen brand, Plain English. The inspiration for British Standard can be traced back to a kitchen Katie visited as a child. “It was created from a series of inexpensive wooden cupboards arranged quite simply, painted green and set against a backdrop of floral wallpaper,” Katie recalls. “I remember walking into the room and thinking how marvellous it was.” It is this combination of thrift and creativity – together with Katie’s extensive knowledge of design and commitment to quality – that has been distilled into the unique ethos of British Standard. British Standard cupboards are built to endure a lifetime of everyday use and materials are given careful consideration. The door and frames of the cupboards are made from Poplar whilst the carcass is made of a durable, easy-to-maintain Birch plywood. Inside, an adjustable midway shelf is lipped with solid Beech. The pared-back design means the cupboards will work in any interior setting: rural or urban, contemporary or historic. “They are really a blank canvas,” says Katie. The online shop offers a range of ironmongery in a choice of finishes, including simple knobs, drawer pulls and catches but the colour palette and finish is entirely customisable. “The final look is endlessly adaptable and it can be refreshed over time,” says Katie. “What’s wonderful is that you have complete creative control. As a result, no two British Standard designs are ever the same.” British Standard Cupboards come in a range of standard sizes, starting at £535. An average sized kitchen comes in at around £8,000 britishstandardcupboards.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • TREND

LOUIS POULSEN

SEBASTIAN HERKNER

Panthella table lamp in chrome, £590 nest.co.uk

Gubi Collar pendant £375 chaplins.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Art Deco Canopy table lamp, £55 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

GLOW LIGHTING Bertie table lamp, £275 glowlighting.co.uk

DAR LIGHTING Ensio table lamp, £118 darlighting.co.uk

DAR LIGHTING Bunny colour changing outdoor light, £85 darlighting.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

LIGHT FANTASTIC

COX & COX Frosted Globe Table Lamp, £115, coxandcox.co.uk

Illuminations with style and personality By P E N D L E H A R T E

DYBERG LARSEN Shanghai table lamp, £74 limelace.co.uk

POOKY Ned standing lamp, £270 pooky.com

SELETTI JONATHAN ADLER

Mouse lamp, £70 redcandy.co.uk

Georgia table lamp, £795 sweetpeaandwillow.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LUXE DREAM B O AT YACHT LIFE

No request is too outlandish on a luxury charter and in the new post-lockdown world, West Nautical anticipates many guests will be in serious need of ultimate relaxation, and a luxury yacht charter provides guests with the perfect way to do this . p91

inside this section: I N V E STM E NT S O F PA S S I O N p 8 4 CLASSIC CARS p88 BUYING FINE ART p96 P O ST- PA N D E M I C P RO P E RT Y p1 0 1

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Added VALUE

How investments of passion are becoming more and more diverse – and thriving despite the pandemic By ANDREW SHIRLEY

ooking for something unusual? How about a complete T Rex skeleton for US$31 million? Something shinier? What about a 15-carat purple pink diamond for US$27 million. Maybe you prefer reading? Perhaps a first edition of Shakespeare’s collected works for US$10 million? Sports more your thing? Try out a pair of Michael Jordan’s basketball sneakers for well over half a million dollars. Or you just need a new handbag? A Hermes crocodile skin Kelly for a mere $US440,000 dollars could be right up your street. These record-breaking sales are just a snapshot of some of 2020's auction results that show that Covid-19 hasn’t dented the enthusiasm of those who collect what we term 'luxury investments' or 'investments of passion'. And they reveal just how eclectic 21st century collections are becoming

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LUXE • INVESTMENT

THE HERMÈS HANDBAG INDEX TOPS THE RANKINGS WITH ANNUAL GROWTH OF 17%

– not to mention how much their owners are prepared to invest in them. Hundreds of thousands of dollars for a Pokemon card? It’s hard to fathom. As part of The Wealth Report’s mission to help its readers keep track of the trends beyond their property portfolios, about 10 years ago I created the unique Knight Frank Luxury Investment Index (KFLII). This tracks the performance of 10 investments of passion. Although these do not currently include sneakers, dinosaurs or Pokemon cards, I’m sure they will appear in due course. But we do have an Hermès handbag index, provided by AMR, and for the second year running, it has topped our rankings with annual growth of 17%. With a strong collecting base in Asia already used to buying via online auctions, the pandemic seemed to have had little impact on this sector. Wine, easily traded online, and the classic car sector – the antithesis of lockdown and where many of the big deals are done privately anyway – also performed relatively strongly. The value of the Knight Frank Fine Wine Icons Index, compiled for us by Wine Owners, rose by 13% last year, while the HAGI index of the most valuable investment-grade cars was up 6%. Whisky, however, took a rare step backwards as buyers shied away from the most expensive bottles. The Knight Frank Rare Whisky Index, curated by Rare Whisky101, slid by 4%. Still, it’s worth bearing in mind that over the past 10 years it has risen by 478%, by far the

“Hundreds of thousands of dollars for a Pokemon card? It’s hard to fathom” best long-term performer in KFLII. But it was the top end of the art market, most reliant on high-profile auction sales, that experienced the biggest Covid hit, with average prices down 11% in 2020, according to AMR. Sales volumes at the major auction houses fell significantly and last year for the first time in a while no works sold for over US$100 million dollars. The closest contender was Francis Bacon’s Triptych Inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus, which made almost US$85 million at auction. But that’s not to say collectors weren’t buying art or that the auctioneers took it lying down. As the year progressed, buyers became more relaxed about bidding many millions of dollars for works of art they hadn’t seen, even via apps on their smartphones. Auction houses innovated and galleries prospered. Sales became less about single genres and more about themed collections of objects and statement pieces that would appeal to locked-down collectors looking

to brighten up their homes. A new breed of bright young artists like Ayako Rokkaku and Matthew Wong – the so-called red chips – created waves, especially in Asia. Collectors are being driven as much by what they see on their social media feeds as established conventions or reputations. Covid-19 has shaken up the world of art, introduced much-needed innovation to the sales process and ushered in a new era of young enthusiastic collectors. The latest trend is tokenised art held on the block chain. It’s making big money, but I’m old-fashioned. To me, the most important aspect of collecting investments of passion is the passion. If you buy something just to make money it seems to defeat the object of art, which is to be admired and treasured, not kept locked up on your hard drive.

ANDREW SHIRLEY is editor of The Wealth Report.

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B E S P O K E B E DS HAN D M A DE IN S W E DE N

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F O R T U N E O F

W h e e l s

Are classic cars a wise investment? B y C A S P A R D AV I D

nvesting in the classic car market has proven to be a profitable investment decision for many collectors over the years. While not often considered a traditional financial instrument, the current poor return on cash investments and a desire to diversify portfolios has led to an increasing trend to invest in classic cars. A 2020 study revealed that over the last 10 years, a host of classic cars have significantly outperformed gold in terms of investment opportunity, in some cases almost tripling in value. Some huge successes have been witnessed, including the sale of a 1962, pastel green Ferrari 250 GTO. Once owned by Sir Stirling Moss during the height of his racing career, the famous car sold in 2002 for $8.5m, re-selling 10 years later for $35m. In 2019 the Aston Martin DB5, used in the promotion of the Bond 007 film ‘Thunderball’, sold at auction for £5.2m. Not a bad price for a car that never actually featured on the silver screen.

For those looking for a more modest purchase, in 2019 the Queen’s 1984 Daimler Double Six saloon, complete with custom seats designed for her Corgis, sold for £80,000. With collectibles exchanging hands at such high values, it’s easy to see why classic cars are a popular way to vary investment assets, while also indulging a love of cars. While classic cars in general gain in value more than other types of collectibles, the market can be a tricky one to navigate. In the same way that you’d seek advice from an expert in relation to a pension or equity investment, it’s important to do the same with classic cars. One expert who can offer help and guidance is Robert Bentley, managing director at Classic Automobiles (classiccar-london.com) who has over 40 years’ experience in the industry. His family-run business recently relocated fromsouthwest London to the Hampshire countryside. A key driver for the move was to allow expansion of their showroom, which is currently home to over 100

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LUXE • CLASSIC CARS

01 1931 Rolls-Royce 20/25 H.P. Sedanca De Ville by Park Ward This model quickly drew praise from around the world, with Autocar noting that it had ‘great refinement of power, and a gentleness and quietness in doing its work’. This example, with the highly desirable Sedanca de Ville coachwork by Park Ward, was commissioned by Sir Stratti Ralli, of Upper Brook Street W1 for his wife, Lady Ralli. An extremely rare car, it’s one of just 12 cars built by Park Ward with the Sedanca de Ville coachwork. With its ‘open or closed’ driver compartment, it’s regarded as one of the most desirable styles of bodywork in today’s market.

02 1969 Shelby GT 350 02

A most sought-after car, American “muscle “cars, are high performance American coupes, which were designed in the 1960s and early 1970s for drag racing. This rare example is in magnificent original condition, with a complete and comprehensive history from new, including the original bill of sale. An unrestored and never raced survivor car with all original panels.

03 1965 Jensen CV8

Classic Automobile’s ‘jewel in the crown’ is the 1965 Jensen CV8- the only convertible ever made by Jensen Motors. The prototype brainchild of Alan and Richard Jensen, the vehicle comes with extensive and rich paperwork , documenting its purchase by the late Lord Carrington (who was the last surviving member of Winston Churchill’s government of the 1950s) and the fundamental works he carried out on the car.

“Over the last 10 years, several cars have significantly outperformed gold in terms of investment” of the most prestige classic cars. The team at Classic Automobiles fully understands the whole lifecycle of classic car ownership and can support with sourcing sought-after cars, negotiating profitable acquisitions and disposals, as well as overseeing restorations and on-going maintenance and storage. It’s this level of expertise and personal touch service that means many of Classic Automobiles' sales are from lifelong clients who return again and again. Robert explains that his clients make purchases both as short-term investments and with a medium-tolonger term view. With those looking to make a more immediate profit, a popular

choice is a restoration project, taking an often rusty, unloved shell of a classic, and restoring it to its formal glory. Robert advises that the attraction for him as an a classic car enthusiast is that as opposed to modern cars which lose value immediately, classics often gain in value over time due to their rarity, performance, or special attributes. So popular is this ever-growing market that tracking benchmarks now exist, such as the Historic Automobile Group International (HAGI™) Indices. These measure the classic markets, similar to a more traditional index such as the FTSE100. Lots of factors affect the desirability

and value of a classic car, but the key is historical importance. The most valuable cars are ones that have a story to tell, that bring back memories and create a sense of nostalgia. Supply is inherently limited and as a result the classic car market continues to thrive. Clients often prefer to acquire tangible assets as opposed to more traditional investments, especially during times of an uncertain or volatile economy. There are of course penalties involved if you get it wrong and financial gain is dependent on picking the right model that has potential. You should always seek the help of an expert in the trade, who can align your investment decision with your appetite to risk and investment aims. C L A S S I C AU TO M O B I L E S WO R L DW I D E Quin Hay Farm, Froxfield, Nr Petersfield Hampshire, GU32 1BZ 0208 871 1357 classic-car-london.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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22/0

LUXE • YACHTS

A Sail

A W A Y

Superyacht company West Nautical resumes luxury yacht charters for holidaymakers B y C A S P A R D AV I D

fter one of the most difficult years in modern history it is safe to say that everybody is ready for a holiday. West Nautical sells, charters and manages luxury superyachts from its head office in Newcastle upon Tyne and, as travel restrictions begin to ease, the team is thrilled to be able to resume providing clients with trips of a lifetime. Whether it’s a relaxing cruise around the UK, a holiday in the South of France, island hopping in Greece or a trip to the picturesque Amalfi Coast in Italy, West Nautical can make it happen. Whatever you need from a holiday, the team of experienced luxury yacht charter experts will make your dream vacation a reality. “We are thrilled that travel is returning to normal and we can resume providing guests with the holiday of their dreams. All our yachts are fully COVID-19 safe and have protocols and sanitation measures in place to ensure guests can relax knowing they are in safe hands.” said Geoff Moore, Managing Director at West Nautical. No request is too outlandish on a luxury charter and in the new post-lockdown world the company anticipates many guests will be in serious need of ultimate relaxation. A luxury yacht charter provides guests with the perfect way to A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LUXE • YACHTS

do this. West Nautical can assist with the booking of private jets for those who want as much seclusion as possible. Geoff explained: “Many people will be worried about tourist destinations being crowded in the current climate, as crowds are obviously still a daunting prospect, but one key advantage of a yacht holiday is that you can get as close to the action as you feel comfortable with. You can enjoy selected trips ashore to your favourite restaurants, shops and attractions, while remaining isolated from the crowds in your luxurious accommodation on board.” Geoff added: “For those who have never holidayed on a yacht before it might seem overwhelming, but West Nautical takes care of everything, allowing you to relax while we make all arrangements in the background to get the trip organised.” Why charter? A Superyacht gives you and your guests the luxury of privacy and exclusivity. You will be able to reach more remote areas, hidden coves and have once-in-a-lifetime experiences off the beaten track. You have the flexibility to design your own itinerary and embrace spontaneity. You will have your own private chef who will make incredible dishes, all tailored to your dining preferences. You

“No request is too outlandish on a luxury charter”

will be able to start each morning with a swim in the ocean followed by a delicious freshly prepared breakfast. Spend the afternoon doing watersports or sunbathing on the sundeck with your favourite drink in hand. There is no holiday that is more luxurious and exclusive than your own private yacht with your friends and family. Superyachts that are available for charter range in size and price and have a variety of amenities, features and water sports toys on board. Charter fees start at £10,000 per week for an all-inclusive holiday for six guests and increase to yachts which cost over £1m per week to charter. There is a variety of yachts available to suit varying needs and budgets. All charters have cancellation policies in place which prohibit any changes to COVID-19 restrictions affecting the cancellation or rescheduling of your charter.

W E ST N AU T I CA L To book your Superyacht charter contact charter@westnautical.com or Managing Director Geoff Moore geoff.moore@westnautical.com westnautical.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Luxury Kitchens since 1892

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19/11/2020 11:49

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25/02/2021 10:21

LUXE • TRADING

“There has never been a more important time to invest your money wisely”

Market TRADER

Interested in trading but unsure where to start? Learn about the trader's mindset from an expert B y A D A M F O R S H AW

ive years ago, I became fed up with the way my life was heading. I made the decision to understand the Forex market and learn how the financial world works. I spent day and night studying how the markets move around session opening times and certain news events. I spent many years failing. But I also learned from my failures, which is key to being successful in this industry. Since then, I have gained a deep understanding of how the markets are manipulated and how the price action will leave certain clues as to where high probability investment opportunities will take place. I began teaching others this skill, as I believe these opportunities should be made more accessible to everybody and not just a few. I have devised a threemonth mentorship training program to

teach people how to spot these investment opportunities but more importantly how to take advantage of them. I already have more than 25 students across the world, from beginners starting out and wanting to learn more to current traders looking to improve their view of the markets. During these times of uncertainty, it has never been more important to invest your money wisely. There has been a rapid rise in the demand for this knowledge as more people become aware of the importance this will have in the future. We have some of the biggest investment opportunities sitting right in front of us with the cryptocurrency market rapidly reaching heights we previously thought was impossible. I want to share this knowledge with as many people as I can around the world and allow them the control to make investments all at their own fingertips. I have been through many ups and downs in

this industry and had many days of failure but I never lost enthusiasm. My business, Capital A Trading, is comitted to showing you the correct way to make investments by focusing on a trader’s mindset. The people I have taught have gone on to become traders, consistently making profits in the markets over a period of two years. I have helped 25 different people make great percentage gains on their original investments. The simple moral of my story is to be patient when learning this skill as it takes time to fully understand the bigger picture. The technical analysis is quickly followed up by having to understand your emotions around your trades. Take time to learn and gain knowledge from others’ experiences in the markets. I have been through every process and can promise you, it’s worth the wait on the road to becoming a profitable trader. I have a YouTube channel displaying exactly how I navigate the financial markets on a daily basis. I have Forex weekly videos where I provide my analysis on the latest investment opportunities to look out for in the coming week. There are also beginner educational videos to help you see the market in a similar way. CA P I TA L A T R A D I N G 07940255905 capitalatrading@hotmail.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LUXE • FINE ART

I N T H E F R A M E Should I invest in art? It's important to take advice from an expert By J O H N A DA M S

C AVA L I E R S Watercolour on paper: 30 x 45 cm Signed by André Brasilier (b.1929)

L E P O RT AU P R I N T E M PS Oil on paper laid down on canvas: 48 x 64 cm by Othello Radou (1910 – 2006)

MOISSON Oil on canvas: 38 x 47 cm • Signed & dated 1920 by Gustave Cariot (1872 – 1950)

he question of whether art can be a good investment can only be answered when backed up with studious research, honest and reliable professional advice and a garnish of luck. No investment is risk-free but the art market is notoriously fickle, being subject to the vagaries of both current aesthetics and financial stability. Unlike stocks and shares, where an individual share in a particular company has a value that is identical to a companion share, no two artworks by a particular artist are identical – and consequently the attribution of value is not straightforward. Two similarly sized and dated paintings by a particular artist can vary enormously depending on subject, condition and perhaps most importantly, aesthetic judgement. I can make a qualitative assessment to determine the authenticity and stature of an artwork within an artists’ oeuvre, but I cannot necessarily explain the narrative for taste. Individuals wear different identities/clothes in order to reflect both their own preferences and societal fashion and in many ways the art market reflects a similar confection of discernment. Values are very much assimilated within our current cultural aesthetic. These norms are continually changing to meet the next generation of ideas and identifying lifestyle behaviour. Back in the 1950s, paintings by the PreRaphaelite masters of the 19th Century could be purchased for very modest amounts. Today painters such as Rossetti, Millais and Waterhouse have undergone a reassessment, and values have risen to reflect their newfound popularity. In general, much of Victorian art is currently in the doldrums; once-valuable paintings may be purchased inexpensively. Will a future generation of art buyers wish to reignite an enthusiasm

LE MIEL ET LE LAIT Oil on canvas: 60 x 73 cm • Signed. Titled & dated 1968 verso by André Masson (1896 – 1987)

for Victorian art, or indeed for any other currently unfashionable style of painting? If you do wish to speculate on art as part of your investment portfolio then I would advise both caution and extreme diligence. Do your homework. Visit as many galleries as possible, if only online at the moment, to get a feel for your preferred style, period or artists. Much in the same way as one would seek out professional help with any other meaningful investment, then do find a suitable and reputable dealer for advice. This may involve extra expense but nevertheless should provide some comforting reassurance before purchase decisions are made. I would also seek to spread the risk by purchasing a variety of artworks and not necessarily confine the portfolio to one artist or genre. There are no guarantees of financial reward but if you purchase what you admire and cherish you will always have the artworks to give you pleasure and enjoyment. My conclusion is buy what you like and can comfortably afford. Enjoy the visual stimulation and satisfaction of ownership. If the artwork appreciates in value, all well and good. J O H N A DA M S F I N E A R T For help in creating a collection or administrating an existing one contact John Adams. johnadamsfineart.com

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ward winning eyewear from ROLF Spectacles. Sleek frames in natural wood exude a professional, sophisticated appearance. ROLF Spectacles carefully handcrafts every frame and only lets the best of hands onto their products. What comes from this creation is unique. Every frame an unmistakable original. ROLF are the masters of wooden and natural eyewear, taking inspiration from nature and natures cycle. Price starts from £1,565

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www.the-eye-place.co.uk Belsize Park - Fleet Street - Fitzrovia - Spitalfields Dore - Bakewell - Kensington - Towcester

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LUXE • WATCHES

“The supple, comfortable bracelet, fitted with a fold-over clasp, is a jewel in its own right”

T i m el e ss

ELEGANCE Patek Philippe have launched a refresh of one its most in demand collections B y C A S P A R D AV I D

atek Philippe launched its first exclusively feminine collection in 1999, a watch with timeless style, to accompany every moment of the modern woman’s life. It was named the Twenty~4 collection, as in the 24 hours comprising a day and night. A fresh interpretation of the original “manchette” model, the Ref. 4910/1200A stands out as the epitome of timeless feminine elegance. The steel model is available with a blue sunburst dial (Ref. 4910/1200A-001) or a grey sunburst dial enriched by a gradation to black at the periphery (Ref. 4910/1200A-010). The whitegold applied numerals and hour

markers and white-gold baton-style hands all have a luminous coating ensuring excellent legibility in the dark. The supple, comfortable bracelet fitted with a fold-over clasp, is a jewel in its own right. In 2018, attuned to the needs of 21st century women and their increasing interest in mechanical movements, Patek Philippe launched the Twenty~4 Automatic. It was the first model of the Twenty~4 collection with a round case and the calibre 324 S C self-winding movement with date aperture and sweep seconds. For 2021, three new expressions of the Twenty~4 collection were launched. The “manchette” models now include a new version in rose gold with a chocolate-brown sunburst dial (Ref. 4910/1201R001) and the Twenty~4 Automatic offers two new models, one in steel adorned with an olive-green sunburst dial (Ref. 7300/1200A011), the other in rose gold, its dial gilded with a rose-gold sunburst (Ref. 7300/1200R-011). The Twenty~4 collection brings beauty to every instant of daily life.

B E R RY ’ S W I N D S O R To discover more about the Patek Philippe Twenty~4 collection, please call Berry’s Windsor 01753 840 930 or visit berrysjewellers.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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LUXE • PROPERTY

On the MARKET

After a tumultuous 2020, Knight Frank provides insight into the luxury London property market so far this year By KNIGHT FRANK

“Prime central London has been disproportionately impacted by the lack of international travel”

rices in the prime central and outer London property markets continued to recover from the impact of the pandemic at their own respective pace in the early months of this year. There was quarter-onquarter growth for the seventh consecutive month in prime outer London in February, demonstrating how demand for more space has driven suburban property markets in the capital. Average prices in Belsize Park, Dulwich and Wimbledon have all grown by 4% since April last year. In the year to February, there were 1.1% more transactions than over the previous 12-month period, which underlines the strength of activity given the UK property market was closed for eight weeks last year. With passenger numbers through Heathrow down by 80-90%, activity in the

Super-Prime Demand Rises despite travel restrictions Annualised % change

prime central London property market has been disproportionately impacted by the lack of international travel. The number of transactions in PCL in the year to February 2021 was 20% down on the previous 12-month period. While a gap is opening up between price growth in central and outer areas of the capital, it will close as international buyers can get back on aeroplanes. Demonstrating how overseas demand has grown despite tight restrictions around travel, the number of new prospective buyers registering in the price bracket increased by 109% in the year to January compared to the previous 12-month period. Continued uncertainty around the relaxation of international travel restrictions means we have recently revised our 2021 forecast for PCL down to 2% from 3%. Siminarly, we have moved our forecast for PCL in 2022 to 7% from 6% as more of the pent-up demand currently building is displaced into next year. KNIGHT FRANK knightfrank.co.uk

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E D U C AT I O N

A LOVE OF LEARNING S EV E N OA KS S C H O O L

Founded in 1432, there is one tradition thataward-winning Sevenoaks School school holds dear: the cornerstone of always championing a forward-thinking and liberal approach to education. sevenoaksschool.org

Pastoral care at St Benedict's 105 · Isabella Pappas on her schooldays 107 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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ALL CHANGE

Managing pupil wellbeing in the pandemic is a priority at St Benedict's

By ANDREW JOHNSON

ncertainty is the enemy of wellbeing and the pandemic has dealt us a great deal of it. ‘Change is the only constant in life’: Heraclitus’ words seem to thunder through the skies in the face of all the plans and arrangements we have had to make, amend and cancel since March last year. Perhaps the most valuable thing we can give to young people as they face this uncertainty is a sense of calm and reassurance. In helping them to cope with uncertainty and adapt to change, there are two key messages: it helps to focus our energies on those things we can control; and by supporting each other, we will get through this.

The return to school in the midst of the pandemic amplified the vital importance of support for pupils’ wellbeing. The transition from home-learning and isolation, to being immersed in school life again was eased by a ‘return to school’ programme: a mini-course for everyone at the start of September and again in March, about reintegrating, building resilience and cultivating a growth mindset. With heightened stress, anxiety and uncertainty experienced by many families, as well as a tragic increase in family bereavements, pastoral care needs to be extensive and particularly sensitive. Our teachers were given mental health training to help them to support their students, and we boosted our counselling provision. Students have been given

“pastoral care needs to be extensive and particularly sensitive at this time”

EDUCATION • FOCUS

additional time and space to talk to their form tutors, with the provision of an extra weekly form-time session. This time has been invaluable, allowing students to talk through how they are doing academically and socially. The aim is always to give them confidence in their ability to cope and deal with difficulties, whatever they are going through, Finally, keeping things running as normally as possible has helped everyone to stay positive. Our cocurricular programme has continued throughout, enabling pupils to continue doing what they enjoy. In lockdown, virtual concerts, plays and dance shows motivated pupils to keep developing their talents; house matches kept team spirit alive; and fund-raising activities turned our attention outwards, beyond ourselves, for the good of others. If we can equip our students with the psychological and practical ability to cope with change, we will have taught them a great deal. The current generation of school children have had more than their fair share of disruption and change: will it make them stronger, more resilient and adaptable in the future? Will they, like the rest of us, perhaps be less likely to take everyday freedoms for granted? If the nightmare of Covid-19 has a silver lining, it is possibly that it has magnified the importance of everyone’s mental wellbeing, underlined the need to learn to be resilient and adaptable, and brought home our absolute interdependence upon each other, encouraging students to show care and consideration for other people’s wellbeing as well as their own.

ANDREW JOHNSON Headmaster of St Benedict’s stbenedicts.org.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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North Bridge House

Virtual events + iv pr ate tours

Book an open day at northbridgehouse.com/open NURSERY & PRE-PREP WEST HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS THURSDAY 22 APRIL

NURSERY & PRE-PREP HAMPSTEAD 2 - 7 YEARS TUESDAY 20 APRIL 4+ ENTRY: SATURDAY 17 APRIL

PREP SCHOOL REGENT’S PARK 7 - 13 YEARS FRIDAY 30 APRIL FRIDAY 28 MAY

SENIOR HAMPSTEAD 11 - 16 YEARS THURSDAY 29 APRIL THURSDAY 27 MAY

SENIOR CANONBURY 11 - 18 YEARS THURSDAY 06 MAY TUESDAY 29 JUNE

Email admissionsenquiries@northbridgehouse.com or call 020 7428 1520 for more information

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EDUCATION • PROFILE

The

M A K ING of Me

Isabella Pappas With major award nominations under her belt and a key role in Finding Alice, Isabella Pappas talks acting, writing and the best of times at school

Where did you go to school and when? I went to primary school in Italy. Then when I came to London I went to Sylvia Young and on to ArtsEd for A levels. What was school like and did you love it or hate it? It was amazing. I loved it – the best years! It was very loud and I was a really big part of that noise. At both Sylvia Young and ArtsEd everyone was completely comfortable with speaking their mind and being really free and open to listening to others. This is something I've carried with me and I'm really grateful for. What were your favourite subjects / activities? My favourite subjects were English Literature and Drama. With Drama, I really didn't mind what role I played as long as I got to be a part of it. Who were your favourite teachers? At ArtsEd it was Russell Clark and Lizzie Bellamy and at Sylvia Young Besfort Williams and Sonny Ward. Russell, in particular, was the driving force in helping me discover my love of writing, while

Sonny Ward made me fall in love with dancing – he gave me so much confidence. What was your favourite place at school? At primary school, it was definitely the playground. In secondary school, it was the rehearsal studios because you could rent the spaces out and we'd do that at lunchtime and make up dance routines. What beliefs did school instil in you? You have to abandon others' perceptions of you to be able to truthfully tell the story on stage. You have to accept yourself and push your boundaries – in any walk of life but especially in acting. It's important not to have others' perceptions of you lingering in the background. What was your proudest school moment? At ArtsEd I did a drama devising piece. This was my first experience with scriptwriting and working in a group setting on a creative project and It made me realise that as well as wanting to be an actress I really want to write. When we performed

the piece, it went really well. We got a lot of positive feedback and our teachers were nudging us to take it to Edinburgh. We might actually do that in years to come! What was the most trouble you got into at school? I was a really big rule follower. The only thing that would make me break the rules is that I'm also a really big foodie. I would skip to the front of the line at lunch because I was always so hungry and then get caught doing it! Were you ever too cool for school? Oh no, the opposite. I have never been overly confident, but I think I learned to deal with that through performing. What is your most vivid school memory, looking back now? Last year we were putting on plays and my group got The Pillowman, which is a really challenging piece. I was cast as Michael, but I was out filming for the majority of the time we were rehearsing. On one of my first days back my teacher asked the group if they were still OK

“IN ITALY, EVERY NIGHT AFTER DINNER MY AUNTS AND UNCLES WOULD LET ME PUT ON A PLAY – I'D MAKE THEM DRESS UP, DIRECT THEM AND THEN ACT!” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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'APPROPRIATE', PHOTO MARK BRENNER

EDUCATION • PROFILE

around barefoot. It's funny because then when I got to drama school and we had all these performance exercises where you had to run around being this animal or that animal it felt as if I was being transported right back to childhood!

Isabella Pappas in 'Finding Alice'

with me in the role because of all the time I'd missed. The group all came together in a group hug and said of course they still wanted me to be in the piece – I was part of their family. That's a very vivid memory as it was just so sweet. How did your interest in acting begin? It was my passion from a really young age. I grew up on a farm in Italy in the middle of nowhere with a huge extended family. Every night after dinner they would let me put on a play. I would make my aunts and uncles dress up and I'd put wigs on them, direct them and then act. I grew up speaking Italian, except with my mother, but all the community theatre projects were in English. The way I knew my family really believed in me was that they would come to watch me perform every single time, even

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though they needed a translation! They still fly over to see anything I'm in – and get very emotional about it. It would be lovely to play a part in Italian for them. Which actors did you admire and how did they influence you? We didn't have a TV growing up so we watched old films on VHS. I loved Audrey Hepburn, especially in films like Breakfast at Tiffany's. Another favourite was Some Like it Hot – I was really interested in musicals and that seemed to have everything, so it was one of the films that really made me want to act. What other key influences have shaped you? Growing up, I loved being outdoors and spent the majority of time running

When did you first think you might have a successful career acting? I got my first role when I was 11, but I must have auditioned for hundreds of things before that. For me, the moment when I thought 'I can do this' was less about getting a part and more about recovering from rejection. It was learning to separate my acting work from my self-worth and understand that not getting a part is not a reflection on your acting or who you are as a person. You've got a key role in ITV's Finding Alice, playing alongside Keeley Hawes and Joanna Lumley. So what's coming up next? Finding Alice has been an amazing experience, definitely my biggest part to date, and I feel really lucky. I'm waiting on a few projects and I've also been writing plays with my best friend Zoe Brough. There are two plays – one finished and one we have just started – so I'm really excited about that. Writing is a great creative outlet, especially during lockdown. It's a bit like acting through text. Looking back now, how would you sum up your school days? Act, sing, dance – and above all Be Mindful! Finding Alice, a six-part comedy drama, is being shown on ITV from this January

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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2020 ISI rated ‘excellent’ in all categories

The most amazing Kindergarten (2+) you have ever seen? Everything at our new specialist premises has been tailored to the needs of 2 and 3 year old children to optimise their development and learning. Come and see for yourself by booking one of our socially distanced tours for families of registered children. You will also meet some of our fantastic team of loving, caring pedagogical experts. They are our greatest asset and create the environment in which lasting excellence can best be achieved. Some vacancies are also still available for Autumn 2021 Pre‑Reception (3+) and Reception (4+). We look forward to meeting you!

020 7274 6336 www.hernehillschool.co.uk Independent Pre-Prep & Pre-School 2–7 Years Early Childhood Education Co-Ed Founded 1976 Member ISA Herne Hill School, The Old Vicarage, 127 Herne Hill, London SE24 9LY

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99 Herne Hill Kindergarten

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BOOK YOUR TOUR 25/03/2021 11:19

EDUCATION • OPINION

“At QE, we have risen to the challenge of creating remote learning content that encourages practical skills development”

ABOVE Drama at QE's professional-quality theatre

THEATRE LEARNING

The Director of Queen Ethleburga's professionalquality theatre on the ways in which drama helps young people to develop skills for life JUSTINE LANGFORD

he subject name ‘Drama’ really misses the mark when it comes to being representative of all of the skills students learn through theatre. Confidence is grown, communication skills are stretched, and commitment is demonstrated. Young people who engage with subjects in the creative arts, as well as in live performance, develop a huge array of practical skills that can be applied to any career path – from boardroom to ‘treading the boards’. Key traits are developed in problem-solving, creativity, the ability to work cooperatively and independently, respect, resilience, the ability to work under pressure and, of course, a motivated and enthusiastic approach. Alongside these skills, drama and theatre nurtures and encourages an emotional understanding of human beings

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and the world around us. The exploration of dramatic texts, characters from different backgrounds, universal themes and social topics, boosts empathy, understanding and an all-round appreciation of everything the world is and has to offer us. We’re incredibly lucky here at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, in that we have a 310-seat on-site professional space in The King’s Theatre. Not only does this enable us to produce numerous largescale productions each year, but it also allows us to host professional touring theatre, comedy or lectures for our QE community and the local public. Sadly, since the first lockdown last March, the doors of the King’s Theatre have had to remain closed to the public, and this is a layer of our community that we are all greatly missing. The entire theatre industry has suffered a major blow, but I am hoping that audiences will be chomping at the bit to return when the time is right.

The art of storytelling has been around since early man, I don’t think COVID-19 stands a chance at taking it from us. Since the return to campus last August, we have noticed a difference in our young people as a result of the social restrictions during lockdown. We have worked hard to regain their confidence, trust, and willingness to engage in practical and vocal tasks. Through drama we are supporting them to re-build their core communication skills. Now, once again, we have risen to the challenge of creating remote learning content that encourages practical skills development. We have spent time in live lessons and hosting rehearsals through Microsoft Teams. We have filmed social media challenges and even ‘met’ regularly with students online to watch the fantastic programme of digital productions from companies such as the National Theatre. We have been inspired by the creation of digitally accessible work in this innovative industry and have managed to create performance work that we have livestreamed to audiences, really enjoying the simple act of coming together to share creativity. The King’s Theatre at QE is ready to re-launch live theatre on stage when we are able to. We have a passionate and outstandingly creative teaching team, and students whose resilience and enthusiasm is a joy to be around. We have supported each other through 2020 and we can’t wait get back together for live performance, both on site and beyond.

J U S T I N E L A N G FO R D Creative Director of The King's Theatre Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate

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EDUCATION • Q&A

seconds with

Sarah Wilson The new Headmistress of Heathfield on her background and educational approach

enjoyment and achievement. That really highlighted for me the transformational nature that education can have. It's a sporting example, but you see the same when children achieve in any field. That feeling that you've really made a difference is always a pivotal moment.

What is your background? I have come to Heathfield from Cranford House in Oxfordshire, where I was Senior Deputy Head. Prior to that, I was in leadership positions at St Helen and St Katharine, Abingdon. Academically, I have a First-Class Degree in Secondary Education from Brunel and an MA in Educational Leadership and Management. I have recently completed the Executive Leadership Programme at Saïd Business School, Oxford. I also love my sport and sit on the GSA Sport and Wellness Committee as Vice Chair. What excites you most about your new role at Heathfield School? The sense of community and warmth of relationships is so evident – every pupil is known. Staff understand the character of the pupils, as well as their academic interests. The other thing that excites me is the clear commitment to innovation. For example, Heathfield is in the process of building a new Sixth Form Centre and has given pupils the opportunity to be involved by sharing their ideas and, in time, watching those ideas come to fruition. There's a very collegiate approach, with the opportunity for pupils to be involved in so many things. It genuinely is their school.

“Our role is to foster

pupils' positive attitude, their inner confidence and their curiosity. That also means we support them to make their own decisions” 112

A B OV E Sarah Wilson

How would you describe your educational philosophy? It's every pupil achieving the very best that they are able to achieve – which is often more than they think is possible. That achievement may be academic, sport, art, drama or something else they haven't tried yet. Academic outcomes are so important, we know that, but they are influenced by many things both in and out of the classroom. Our role is to foster pupils' positive attitude, their inner confidence and their curiosity. That also means we support them to make their own decisions, so that they are able to make good decisions as adults for their own and others' lives. As teachers, we need to provide support and challenge for every pupil at the right time so they get the very most out of school. Can you tell us about one pivotal moment in your teaching career? When I was a Director of Sport I led a department that achieved significant culture change. In turn, this resulted in a huge increase in pupil participation,

What sets Heathfield's approach apart? I would say it's the attention and support of each child as an individual, with the school community at the heart of education. It's an interesting balance when you can be known and celebrated as an individual but still be part of that community. There is an extraordinarily vibrant atmosphere, so that the pupils are inspired to work hard. They find their own path, and they have the space to do that here, but are also embedded within the community. The sense of belonging really does underpin everything. What makes a great student? For me it's all about attitude. You can achieve great things with curiosity, enthusiasm, kindness and by working hard. What makes a great school environment? It's the culture. Getting that right is a combination of everything. From inspirational teachers and outstanding pastoral care, to diverse opportunities and, of course, staff who go the extra mile. The right culture gives pupils the confidence to get involved and try new things outside their comfort zone. When children feel valued and happy, challenged and supported – and enjoying school life – that's when they flourish and fly.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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AV N O W A I N I LA B LO N O RT L E ND H ON

WORKSHOPS Creative Writing

Handwriting Exam Preparation Mock Exams

Interview Skills Reasoning

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 7

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S P R I N G 20 21 WITH

YO U N G S O L E S . LO N D O N

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SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

In this section:

EASTER EDIT

Gifts for little bunnies • TOP LONDON NURSERIES Where to enrol now • TRIED & TESTED We review the latest kit

S PR I N G FEEL S

IMAGE: S EZ AN E .CO M

Spring is here and so is Easter! This issue we have the sweetest presents to keep your little chicks entertained. Elsewhere, we round up the top nurseries in London, review a family-friendly country escape, and put the latest parenting kit to the test. Enjoy mamas!

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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New

Stokke® Xplory® X Design: Bjørn Refsum/Hilde Angelfoss, Design development in cooperation with K8 Industridesign AS, Product development in cooperation with Bård Eker Industrial Design AS

The

S TO K K E ® X P LO R Y ® X

COMPLEMENTS YO U R L I F E

U N I Q U E D E S I G N B R I N G I N G YO U & YO U R BA B Y C LO S E R

Now that you have the most precious of passengers, we want to make your new life together as smooth as possible. Stokke® Xplory® X has everything you need to effortlessly go where you want to go & keep your baby comfy on all your city strolls together. Is there any better way to bond with each other than taking a stroll? Exploring together engages the senses, fuels curiosity and allows you & your baby to discover the world around you. Walk, talk, stay close & connected! @stokkebaby | #StokkeXplory

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mama PARTNERSHIP

R A I N Y D A Y Explore the joy of wet weather and keep kids protected with rainwear by Reima

magine opening the curtains in the morning and feeling the same way about rain as you do glorious sunshine. This spring, don’t crack out the puzzles and paint – opt for wet weather play; you may be surprised just how beneficial it is. Whether it’s torrential downpours or grey drizzle, rain doesn’t give us that serotonin kick that sun does. It takes strong willpower (and coffee) to put on wellies and a raincoat – and then little versions of the same for our kids. But getting outdoors in wet weather is a whole new world for little eyes, noses and fingers. Rain heightens our sense of smell and allows us to reconnect with nature in a whole new way. Next time you’re out in the rain, what animals can you spot that you may not see otherwise? From slugs and snails to frogs and toads, there’s always something new and exciting to find. Slippery logs, wet moss and puddles on the path help increase motor skills and balance ability. Watching the grey clouds dissipate to blue skies offers a great opportunity to talk about the water cycle. If it’s no longer raining, why not find a puddle and loop back to it later on – is it still as big? You can measure this by putting stones around the parameter. Using a sandpit to create moats for the water to flow around and buckets to

The Lampi waterproof jacket has reflective details to keep kids safe and seen during the earlier spring months when the days are darker.

Reima’s waterproof PVC-free Vesi jacket is comfortable and flexible, coming in a range of fun and bright colours.

Hop into the Lammikko waterproof trousers, dubbed the ‘right pants for sitting in a puddle’, Lammikko literally means puddle in Finnish – how appropriate!

make mud pies fuels creative thinking. The UK experiences, on average, 133 days of rainfall annually which is 133 more opportunities to keep physically active and to improve overall health. How can you pass on that?!

REIMA Reima sparks the joy of movement in kids across the world. A globally leading brand, they focus on functionality, safety, sustainability and innovation in their clothing; all core requirements for active children. littleadventureshop.co.uk

The water-resistant Vantti softshell jacket has a fleece reverse and is windproof yet breathable to keep children warm when the rain stops but the play doesn’t.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Luxury travel experienced in a completly new way • Compact size and lightweight • One-hand fold • Seat unit from 0kg up to 22kg • Folds with the seat unit on • Large solid and Puncture-Free wheels • UV50+ and Water-Repellent Fabric • Cosy footmuff included • 2-years warranty • Suitable for multi terrain • Panoramic ventilation

Explore the Tinum Special Edition of the prestigious, exceptional quality unique compact pram. One hand fold is easy and quick. The pram stands on its own when folded and can be folded with or without the seat unit attached. Tinum will always be a light and compact companion on your trips.

For more details visit our website www.venicci.co.uk or email customerservice@venicci.co.uk

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ma m a EASTER

Bunny HOP

All the best Easter treats for tinies MAILEG Bunny in Overalls, £65; scandiborn.co.uk

editor’s pick

MERI MERI Daisy Plates, £6.25; merimeri.co.uk

MERI MERI Bunny Bonnet, £24; merimeri.co.uk

PLAY IN CHOC Rabbits Gift Set, £15; playinchoc.com

THE BOX PARTY Easter Egg Hunt Signs, £5.95; theboxparty.co.uk

ROCKAHULA Bunny Ponies, £6.50; rockahulakids.com

MERI MERI Alfalfa Bunny Large Toy, £50; merimeri.co.uk

we love

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TRIED & TESTED

IN DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

mama REVIEWS

Vinicci Tinum 2 R e v i e w e d b y L E A H DAY

he Venicci Tinum SE has arrived at Absolutely Mama HQ and we are delighted to give our readers a sneak peek of this latest offering. Last year we road tested the original Tinum and the SE is a superb upgrade in our opinion. The overall appearance is stunning and it is clear to see that this new addition to the Venicci family is going to be turning heads. The new colourway is a step up from the original and the fabric has a real luxurious feel to it. The sleek black frame along with the rose gold trims add a beautiful dimension to the whole appearance too. The carry cot offers a deep quilting throughout and as with the original Tinum, the tapered mattress is plush and perfectly cushioned to ensure your

baby has the most comfortable ride. There have been noticeable upgrades to the carrycot and the hood now offers an additional sunshade and provides much more coverage than the original. The most exciting upgrade to this carrycot however, is the removable panel to provide panoramic airflow. This allows air to circulate inside the carrycot and can be used as an occasional overnight cot. The fabric is wipe clean and UV50+ there is a 5 pint harness as expected and the seat reclines full back really smoothly to ensure that your napping little one isn’t disturbed when you lower them down. The footrest has been upgraded and has a hidden extension to accommodate your baby as they grow. The seat unit is suitable from

birth but we would recommend you use the carrycot until they are sitting up as they might be a little too exposed in the seat alone. Foldable with both the seat unit on or off, simply bring the backrest inline with the handle and pull the footrest up to meet and expose the handle, twist the handle to collapse the frame. There is an additional carry strap too to make carrying really easy and it stands unaided when collapsed to save on space. To open it back up again pull the handle bar back up again and you’re all set. The 10 piece bundle which retails at £829 comes complete with a car seat, adapters, raincover, changing bag, mosquito net and a beautiful cosy footmuff. The Tinum SE is available on pre order now for May 21 delivery. venicci.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TRIED & TESTED

IN-DEPTH REVIEWS OF THE LATEST PARENTING KIT

mama REVIEWS

Blossom Antenatal Classes R e v i e w e d b y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

Joie Versatrax Travel System R e v i e w e d b y L E A H DAY

here are loads of travel systems on the market and choosing the right one for you and your baby can be a little overwhelming. At a mid-level entry price point at £400, the Versatrax and Ramble XL Carrycot are great products and there are some superb features to make life easier when out and about with your little one. Available in 4 colourways and with luxury faux leather textured handle, the look and feel is premium and they have really thought of everything. Handy features such as hidden storage pockets in the carrycot, zipped pockets in the very generous basket, extra ventilation in the extendable hood and even a cup holder make life that little bit easier. The whole system is super lightweight. Some might prefer something more robust, but after

lugging the pram in and out of the car boot you will thank Joie for shaving off those extra kgs. The frame folds with the seat unit on or off and collapses seamlessly with the pull of the handy carry strap. It stands independently too, which is great for storage. We think this is a great travel system and superb value for money. joiebaby.com

xpecting my first baby during a pandemic has been a different experience to the one I’d imagined. Aside from not having my friends and family around, I haven’t been able to meet other mamas at the same stage through local groups. With NHS antenatal courses cancelled, there was no alternative but to head online. Luckily there have been lots of birth experts that have set up courses on Zoom and Blossom’s virtual antenatal classes are there to make sure parents-to-be and new parents are still getting support and information. We signed up to several of Blossom’s classes including: Labour & Birth, Hypnobirthing, Breastfeeding, Infant First Aid and Birth Partners. It’s up to you if you turn your camera on, or off, and you can ask as many questions as you like. Each session is held by a different expert and we found all of them to be brilliant. We left each class feeling more informed and picked up specialist tips and advice that we hadn’t heard or read anywhere else. We’d definitely recommend Blossom to other expectant parents and once the pandemic is over, you’ll be able to attend their classes in person too.

Each class is priced individually and Blossom also offers some free classes. blossomantenal.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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I ND E P E ND E NT DAY SCHO O L FO R GI RLS AGE D 4 TO 18 I N SO UT H K E N S I NGTO N

OUR TRADITION

your future

FIND OUT MORE www.queensgate.org.uk South Kensington · 5-minute walk Gloucester Road · 6-minute walk

Independent Pre-Prep & Pre-School 2–7 Years Early Childhood Education Co-Ed Founded 1976 Member ISA

‘Foodie’ Chef for Kindergarten children Required from June 2021

Our caterers Wilson Vale are in the process of recruiting a high calibre chef for our new Kindergarten site who is likely to be:

• a consummate, creative ‘foodie’ who takes pride in preparing fresh,

seasonal and varied lunches tailored to 2 and 3 year old children in a brand new, well equipped kitchen;

about shaping the tastes of young children, evolving their • passionate preferences from ‘brown food’ to a healthy, balanced and plant-rich diet; bit of a gardener, who can at least tend to growing herbs with the • achildren and preferably also some vegetables and berries to be used in the kitchen, and help with composting.

Herne Hill School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share that commitment.

To register your interest, please email reception@hernehillschool.co.uk or visit the vacancies page on our website in the coming weeks.

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www.hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 The Old Vicarage, 127 Herne Hill, London SE24 9LY

25/03/2021 11:50

mam a NURSERY

EATON SQUARE

TIGERS CHILDCARE

RIVERSIDE NURSERIES

LONDON’S TOP

N U R S E RIE S Absolutely Mama rounds up three of the best nurseries in London to put your child’s name down for

W o r d s C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

TIGERS CHILDCARE

RIVERSIDE N U RSE RY SCHOOL S

E AT O N S Q U A R E

The location: Established in Ireland in 2003 Tigers opened an impressive new building in Southwark in 2018. The centre is split into three different areas based on age-group and also has a terrace for outdoor play.

The location: Riverside Nursery Schools is a family of beautiful nurseries in Twickenham, St Margarets, Richmond and Kew.

The location: Eaton Square has four London nurseries across Belgravia, Eccleston Square, Knightsbridge and Pimlico. Each has a different personality, but all offer homely and fun atmospheres in stunning surroundings. All are close to outdoor parks or playgrounds.

What to expect: The centre is run by degree-educated staff, who are all qualified in early years care. Director Karen Clince sits on a number of government boards and steering groups to ensure Tigers is at the forefront of industry improvement. Their approach: Tigers build a close relationship with children and their families. The curriculum is play-based and sits within the Early Years Foundation Stages. Each space is designed to be hands-on to enable free-play, arts and crafts, drama and movement, as well as Montessori-based activities. tigerschildcare.co.uk

What to expect: In a beautifully crafted environment, Riverside offers an individualised education, to nurture the growth of the whole child. The nurseries strive to instil the intellectual, emotional, and physical skills they need to become self-motivated learners, flexible thinkers and creative problem solvers. Their approach: Teaching at Riverside draws inspiration from a range of established pedagogies including Montessori and Reggio Emilia, which are taught alongside the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. Riverside also benefits from an in-house Mindfulness and Yoga teacher. riversidenurseryschools.com

N U RSE RY SCHOOL S

What to expect: Eaton Square aims to foster happy and independent children and they put an emphasis on forging strong home/school links. Many children attend the nursery from ages 2-4 and then go on to study at Eaton Square’s Prep school and then their Senior school. Their approach: A timetable of structured play is offered alongside a focus on all aspects of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. Ballet, Music, Swimming, Yoga, Drama and Karate are also taught by specialist teachers. eatonsquareschool.com/nurseries

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mama PARTNERSHIP

T U R N I N G P A G E S From Michael Morpurgo's new story to a charming tale by Judith Kerr, here are Absolutely Mama's favourite book releases to enjoy with your little ones Wo r d s H A R PE RC O L L I N S CHILDREN'S BOOKS

haring a story with your child is such a simple pleasure – a moment together, strengthening your bond and sparking their imagination. Freshly published this spring, these brilliant picture books are sure to delight little ones and introduce them to new characters and ideas. The Birthday Duck is a gorgeous story from the much-loved Michael Morpurgo. This warm and magical tale of a city boy finding fun on a farm is gloriously brought to life by Sam Usher’s beautiful illustrations. The story is set on the real-life Nethercott Farm of Farms for City Children – the charity that Michael Morpurgo and his wife set up offering urban children the chance to stay at a real farm and experience the magic of the countryside. Dog Gone is a wonderfully waggy tale celebrating friendship, bravery and above all, dogs, from the one and only Rob Biddulph – the man behind the Lockdown drawalong video phenomenon, #DrawWithRob, and the official World Book Day illustrator.

“It's narrated

by the adorable pug, Edward Pugglesworth” Narrated by the adorable pug, Edward Pugglesworth – or Teddy for short – this joyful tale is packed with warm humour and bouncing rhyme. Another animal hero is the star of Mini Rabbit Come Home and parents of pre-schoolers will soon recognise their own children in this delightfully charming and irrepressibly enthusiastic little bunny! In this

latest Mini Rabbit story from artist and Instagram star, John Bond, Mini Rabbit is making a camp in the garden but there are still a few things he needs and time is running out. Mummy Time is magic time in this unexpected and enchanting tale from Judith Kerr, creator of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Mog the Forgetful Cat. Full of warmth, whimsy and wit – and the unexpected twist on the everyday that personifies Judith’s classics, Mummy Time celebrates the very special magic that can only happen when you’re with Mummy… Noa and the Little Elephant is a heart-warming and achingly relevant story from another picture book legend – Michael Foreman. Following a young boy and his friendship with an orphaned elephant, this beautiful tale, published in association with Tusk, the African wildlife conservation charity, is perfect for children of all ages to learn about the importance of preserving the remarkable world we live in. harpercollins.co.uk

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ma m a BOOKS

We Love

BOOKS This month’s brilliant new releases to enjoy with little readers...

SPACE EXPLORERS

David Roberts' Delightfully Different Fairy Tales

by Libby Jackson W R E N & R O O K , £ 1 4 .9 9

Written by a space-industry insider, this is a compilation of real stories about journeys into the unknown. The timeline begins with Sputnik and ends with a speculative story about the future of space travel. There's also a chapter on what it takes to be an astronaut.

by Lyn Roberts-Maloney

PAV I L I O N , £ 1 2 .9 9

his new edition brings together three reworked fairy stories, with the oldest first published almost two decades ago. David Roberts' glorious illustrations set them in distinct time periods – the Roaring Twenties for Cinderella, the 1970s for Rapunzel, and the 1950s and 1000 years into the future for Sleeping Beauty. The text created by his sister Lyn RobertsMaloney rethinks the handsome prince v powerless female narrative and there's a rich vein of humour. Happy endings come with a twist; Sleeping Beauty is rescued by a female friend, Rapunzel sets up as a wig designer, while Cinders makes peace with her dreadful stepsisters.

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THERE ARE FISH EVERYWHERE by Britta Teckentrup B I G P I C T U R E P R E S S , £ 7.9 9

Royal College of Art and St Martin's alumnus Britta Teckentrup has joined forces with author and editor Katie Haworth to create this wonderful picture book – part of a series that looks at more elusive inhabitants of the wild kingdom. It's a mine of fascinating bite-sized facts, from the epic journeys of Atlantic salmon and tactics fish use to avoid predators, to the colourful inhabitants of coral reefs.

Clap When

YOU LAND by Elizabeth Acevedo H O T K E Y B O O K S , £ 7.9 9

Elizabeth Acevedo is a noted poet as well as author and has once again chosen a verse form for this moving novel about grief, identity and, love. Camino and Yahaira are sisters, separated for 16 years, who find each other after the death of their father when a plane crashes en route to Dominican Republic. The revelations that follow force them to explore who Papi was and also where they fit in. There is extra resonance in the original inspiration for the novel – a plane crash in 2001 that continues to have huge resonance for New York's Dominican community.

GO BIG by Matthew Burton

W R E N & R O O K , £ 7.9 9

Written by the star of C4's Educating Yorkshire and head of Thornhill Community Academy, this is an accessible guide to surviving the move to secondary school. Burton manages to avoid mollifying, instead favouring a light style that doesn't dodge the key fears – from feeling lost and exams to fitting in. Inspirational quotes and soundbites from the great and the good pepper the text, which offers dip in facts and ideas to explain key rules (uniforms, disciplinary procedures) and survival tactics (ask questions, get support, don't be afraid).

CHIT T Y CHIT T Y BANG BANG Adapted by Peter Bently

H AC H E T T E , £ 1 2 .9 9

an Fleming's 1960s yarn is brought to life for younger readers in a picture book created by two modern talents – author Peter Bently and illustrator Steve Antony. The narrative is gripping, and with wonderful images that chart the fantastical story of the Pott family's adventures in their flying car. With a dastardly robber captured and a medal presented by the French president, there's a wholly satisfying finale. It's an engaging nostalgia trip that introduces a new audience to the book the James Bond author penned in the early 1960s based on tales he'd dreamed up to entertain his own young son.

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TRAVEL

DREAM TRIPS SUMMER 2021

Will we or won't we? Nobody knows what summer 2021 will bring, holiday-wise. We round up some of our wishlist destinations...

Travel wishlist – where to book 134 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Tr a v e l

W I S H L I ST Absolutely’s top destinations for a post-Covid getaway By ABBIE SCHOFIELD

Spring is on the horizon, and with that, a renewed hope that life will return to some semblance of normal in the coming months. If you’re dreaming of escaping the city in favour of sunnier climes, here are our favourite hotels for a luxurious holiday when ‘this’ is all over.

Montenegro One&Only Portonovi

Hugged by jaw-dropping mountains and the sparkling water of the Adriatic, Bokor Bay lies near the old Medieval town of Kotor, just an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik. It’s the perfect place to explore the beauty of the Balkans, and One&Only Portonovi is a sensational new luxury resort overlooking the dramatic cove. As well as impeccable guest rooms, suites and villas, One&Only offers Private Homes with their own beach, jetty and pools for a more secluded experience. The Espace Chenot Spa is a huge draw with its scientific approach to wellness, as are the multiple fine dining restaurants such as Sabia by renowned chef Giorgio Locatelli. oneandonlyresorts.com

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TRAVEL • WISHLIST

Iceland

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

One of the ultimate bucket list destinations, Iceland’s Blue Lagoon will leave you full of wonder and serenity. Inspired by the craggy rocks and blue water of its Nordic surroundings, The Retreat’s rooms have breathtaking views of the lagoon and lava fields, and guests are a stone’s throw away from plunging into the powerful geothermal pool. Moss is the signature restaurant looking over the volcanic horizon, serving Icelandic cuisine (locally sourced and seasonal) — be sure to pay a visit to the subterranean wine cellar before your meal. bluelagoon.com

“Inspired by the craggy rocks and blue water of its surroundings, The Retreat's rooms have breathtaking views of the lagoon” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Hingstons Of Wilton Purveyors of Antiques and decorative items (est.1976)

�e Old Bell House, 2 Sha�tesbury Road, Wilton, Salisbury, SP2 0DR 01722 742263 | nick@hingstons-antiques.co.uk www.hingstons-antiques.co.uk

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• XXXXX XXXXXXXX TRAVEL • WISHLIST

France

Hôtel les Roches Rouges

Designed by French architectural studio, Festen, Hôtel les Roches Rouges is a vintage-lover’s dream, with a 1950s Modernist aesthetic that oozes chic. Situated on the Cote d’Azur, all of the rooms have a sea view and one of its two pools fills with natural seawater in harmony with the tide. The decor’s understated luxury is designed to reflect the Riviera way of life, allowing nature to be the focal point while providing all the glamorous comfort one would expect from a five-star hotel. For fine-dining, Michelin-starred restaurant La Terrasse serves Provencal cuisine with ingredients from local farmers and makers with a fantastic selection of wines, while La Plage is a more casual beachfront offering. hotellesrochesrouges.com

Ireland Adare Manor

For those not wanting to venture too far, Adare Manor in County Limerick has everything you could possibly desire for a traditional countryside escape — and then some. Rooms combine historical grandeur with effortless comfort, and the new Padel club in the estate’s lush woodland is an impressive activity centre with indoor tennis courts, sports simulation room, swimming pool and gym complete with Peloton bikes, not to mention the golf course and La Mer spa. Adare Manor also boasts Limerick’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, The Oak Room, plus plenty of other dining options including afternoon tea. adaremanor.com

The Maldives Angsana Velavaru

At Angsana Velavaru, known as Turtle Island in the local Dhivehi language, guests can stay in water villas directly over the turquoise ocean and its rich coral reefs. When you’re not relaxing on the palmfringed white sand beaches, there are plenty of activities to enjoy such as diving at over 30 nearby spots; guests of all abilities can go on excursions to see black tip reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles and whale sharks. There’s also paddle-boarding, catamaran trips, canoeing in glassbottom boats and more. Four restaurants provide plenty of culinary choice including Magoo Garden inspired by a Maldivian market with a live cooking station. angsana.com

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Since 1989

PROU DLY IND EP END ENT

AWA R D W I N N I N G

Over 50 Bathroom Displays

B AT H R O O M S H O W R O O M & T I L E G A L L E R Y

Working Displays

Tel: 0 1 7 8 4 426900

4D Design Service

Quality Brands

Large Car Park

193 London Road I Staines-upon-Thames I TW18 4HR

E-mail: sales@batheandbeyond.com Monday - Saturday: 9.00am - 5.00pm

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24/03/2021 11:03

Award-winning care in Beckenham coming soon Introducing Beckenham’s most luxurious care home, providing exceptional care in a brand new purpose built environment. Featuring luxury lifestyle facilities akin to the world’s finest hotels, Signature at Beckenham offers a variety of spacious accommodation options including one bedroom apartments - perfect for couples who wish to stay together. Residential | Nursing | Dementia Care

Marketing suite opening in April 2021 Limited appointments available. Please call our Client Liaison Manager Courtney Moncur on 020 8053 0261 Computer generated image and photography are indicative only

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24/03/2021 22/03/2021 11:34 17:37

PROPERTY

PARKSIDE SW19

£3,250,000

his exceptional split level 5 bedroom apartment has undergone an extensive and glamorous refurbishment to restore it to its original glory, respecting period features while adding a modern twist. There are three smartly appointed bathrooms and an impressive bespoke kitchen, plus a balcony overlooking beautiful communal gardens.

ROBERT HOLMES & COMPANY 020 8947 9833 robertholmes.co.uk

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

SO LD

EALING W5

RECENTLY SOLD

A rare opportunity to acquire an impressive extended semi-detached four bed Edwardian villa in one of the premier roads in award winning Pitshanger Village. The property offers spacious living accommodation and an array of period style features. To the ground floor are two excellent sized reception rooms, study and an extended kitchen/diner/family area with glazed roof. To the first floor are three good sized bedrooms and modern family bathroom. To the second floor is a large bedroom with en suite shower room. The property has original sash windows, gas fired central heating, a west facing 60’ rear garden. Energy Performance Certificate D.

82 Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QX jmesales@johnmartinestates.com JOHN MARTIN.indd 1

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

£495,000 Leasehold

A spacious, bright and airy two bedroom second floor apartment located moments from Ealing Common. The property offers lounge overlooking communal gardens, well-arranged fitted kitchen, shower room, en suite bathroom and two bedrooms. There is also electric heating, double glazing, ample storage, well maintained communal gardens, allocated underground parking bay. Energy Performance Certificate D. The property is also available to rent at £1,400pcm.

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www.johnmartinestates.com 1995-2020

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

£400,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

A charming first floor apartment in this historic detached period property only moments from Northfields Station. The property offers open plan lounge/well-arranged fitted kitchen, family bathroom and good sized double bedroom. There is also an array of period style features, Economy 7 electric storage heaters, communal gardens and ample unallocated off street parking. Energy Performance Certificate E.

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“PITSHANGER’S COMMUNITY ESTATE AGENT”

TO T W KE NE AR M

EALING W5

£375,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD

A superbly positioned first floor flat in this imposing double fronted Edwardian property just moments from the heart of award winning Pitshanger Village. The property offers large lounge, spacious double bedroom, well arranged fitted kitchen and modern family bathroom. The property also benefits from an array of period features, wood flooring, gas fired central heating and access to a mature communal garden. Energy Performance Certificate E. The property is also available to rent at £1,200pcm.

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Airedale Avenue, W4

£1,500 per week Upham Park Road, W4

A beautiful six bedroom family house on one of Chiswick’s premier roads with period features and high ceilings throughout, two reception rooms and a lovely west facing garden, energy rating d.

This four bedroom family home is arranged over three floors with plenty of natural light in every room. The house has an open plan kitchen and dining area that leads onto a patio garden, energy rating d. 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

Blythe Road, W14

£1,100 per week

£1,300 per week Hatfield Road, W4

Ideal for family living, this contemporary five bedroom home has a double reception room and a bespoke fitted kitchen with French doors opening onto a west facing garden, energy rating d. 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

£799 per week

With charming period features throughout, a large reception room and an attractive rear garden, this newly refurbished four bedroom mid-terrace home is perfect for a family, energy rating d. 020 8742 4100 chiswicklettings@fletcherestates.com

For further information on the costs associated with renting a property, please visit our website or ask one of our local experts.

fletcherestates.com

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Fielding Road, W4 Located in Bedford Park, an immaculate family home offering fantastic living space with four double bedrooms and a versatile fifth room which could be used as a home office. There is also a bright spacious reception room, three bathrooms and a south facing garden, energy rating c.

Cleveland Avenue, W4 A four bedroom house on a sought after street just off Chiswick High Road. There is an impressive double reception room with a square bay fronted window and original Victorian features throughout. To the rear of the property, a beautiful west facing garden, energy rating e.

£1,495,000 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

£1,500,000 020 8987 3000 chiswicksales@fletcherestates.com

fletcherestates.com

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WE'RE SELLING IN ROADS LIKE YOURS, IT'S TIME TO MAKE A MOVE

MANVILLE ROAD, SW17

MELODY ROAD, SW18

LYFORD ROAD, SW18

Following competitive bidding, we achieved over guide price for this handsome double fronted period home, benefiting from lateral space on the Heaver Estate. This property was sold to a family upsizing locally.

Having previously been with another agent, we quickly secured a buyer for this truly magnificent house that had been refurbished to the highest of standards throughout to a family moving back to London following multiple bids.

We sold this sensational eight bedroom house to our clients back in 2011. They fully refurbished the property and then let through us. When they wanted to sell we agreed a market strategy that worked for them.

Guide price £2,750,000

Guide price £2,400,000

Guide price £8,000,000

WISETON ROAD, SW17

NARBONNE AVENUE, SW4

GRANARD ROAD, SW12

We sold this unique architecturally designed house to our clients back in 2014 and it was great to have the opportunity to act for them on the sale. In fact it's the third time we've sold this property and had it furnished by Knight Frank Interiors.

In competition with another agent, this impressive and immaculately presented family house just off Clapham Common had numerous buyers offering, however one was a cash buyer and we exchanged just six working days later.

A simply stunning, refurbished five bedroom house. We were delighted to have been instructed by our clients to find a buyer for this immaculate house after they had found a larger house to buy through us locally.

Guide price £2,250,000

Guide price £2,650,000

Guide price £2,300,000

CLAPHAM COMMON NORTH SIDE, SW4

TRINITY ROAD, SW17

ST JAMES DRIVE, SW17

An exceptional early eighteenth century house offering a unique family home of 7,956 sq ft and seven bays wide with spectacular views over Clapham Common, sold to a buyer sourced from Mayfair.

One of only four of the first grand houses built on the southern edge of Wandsworth Common, we were delighted to sell this attractive house to a local family looking to upsize from between the commons.

Having sold this beautiful house with fine green views over Wandsworth Common to our clients back in 2008 they wanted to upsize locally. We called in Knight Frank Interiors and they helped to furnish this property to showcase it at its finest.

Guide price £5,950,000

Guide price £2,725,000

Guide price £2,600,000

For a no-obligation sales or lettings market appraisal, talk to our friendly Wandsworth team today. We'd love to help. Call us on 020 3740 1359.

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24/03/2021 11:21

PROPERTY • FEATURE

MARKET

TA L K

John Martin of John Martin Estates in Ealing gives his take on the property market, with the benefit of 35 years in the industry

s I write this, we are slowly making our way along the roadmap out of lockdown – and yes, it is Lockdown 3! My last article was written during Lockdown 2 last November and I’m not sure any of us expected to revisit that situation quite so quickly – but the variants had different ideas. Once again, this lockdown has seen the industry allowed to continue with appointments for viewings and valuations. While there was still activity in the sales market in early January, as time moved towards that cliff edge for the stamp duty holiday of 31 March and it was clear that local authority searches, mortgage offers and general conveyancing matters were not up to the speed required, people lost interest. Everyone was waiting to see which of the rumours regarding an extension (or not) of the stamp duty holiday would prove

correct come the Budget on 3 March. Of course, we now all know that the Chancellor extended the stamp duty holiday at the £500,000 figure until 30th June and, all of a sudden, we were off again! This last month has really been a repeat of last summer with new properties coming to the market and new applicants appearing or previous applicants renewing their interest in properties which they may have seen last year. However, there is still little activity with first time buyers who are waiting to see the exact detail of the governmentbacked 95% mortgage scheme before committing and there is still a large section of applicants who want to see the end of furlough and what will happen in respect of their employment before taking the plunge. What about investors I hear you say? Well, while rumours continue to circulate about possible Capital Gains Tax (CGT) changes, there still appears a reluctance to jump in feet first. I can appreciate

this sentiment but, at the same time, the lettings market has been busy, especially for one bed properties and even without a garden. We can thank the positivity which the vaccine rollout has brought for that. In fact, the 2020 stampede to move out of London seems to have halted. Agents on the South Coast want to know what has happened to all the applicants. As always, the ability to purchase or rent rests on affordability and it is for agents to manage clients’ expectations. Sky-high prices are not the norm and a properly priced property for sale or rent is more important now than ever. In terms of borrowing, with the change in our relationship with the EU, we trust lenders take the brakes off their stricter lending regime. Even if transactions do not complete by 30 June, there is still a further period of three months until 30 September, to have a stamp duty concession on the first £250,000, which is still better than none at all. I fully expect increased activity after Easter. It is also good to hear the further assistance being given to high streets by the government to safely reopen and on Pitshanger Lane, we were delighted to welcome the Secretary of State, Robert Jenrick, on 19 March, to record the announcement of the Welcome Back Fund. When high streets are back to normal, high street agents will likely see those with increased confidence coming back to receive the personal service they are all used to especially at a property where a virtual viewing just isn’t the same.

For advice on the property market, Pitshanger Village and Ealing and to view the properties available, please contact John and his team. John Martin Estates 020 8998 3333 johnmartinestates.com

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SALES

5 -7 Tur n h a m G re e n Te rra ce, C h isw ic k , Lon don , W4 1R G Te l 0 2 0 8 7 4 7 8 8 0 0 · Fa x 020 8995 7275 E-m a i l i n fo @wh i t m a n a n dco.com · We bsite w w w. w h i t m a n a n dco. co m

FAIRLAWN AVENUE, W4 BEAUMONT ROAD, W4

£465,000 £1,195,000

LETTINGS

An Victorian house presented in excellent orderthe throughout locatedof onathis quiet residential street withinThree a shortbedrooms, walk of numerous An elegant amazingly light,terraced well presented triple aspect flat with added benefit balcony and private garden. luxury amenities. bathroom, The benefits from an abundance light and high ceilings with the accommodation a 26’9 double reception room, with full extended kitchen/ 14' house reception room, fully integrated of kitchen, gas fired central heating, share in thecomprising freehold, balcony and private garden side access. Ideally dining room, private landscaped with open lovely full-width master bedroom withand bayrestaurant window, two furtheron double bedrooms, full bathroom situated within close proximitygarden of Chiswick Parkaspect, tube station and the extensive shopping facilities Chiswick High Road. with separate shower, ensuite shower room, dressing room/walk-in wardrobe and eaves storage. The house is in a superb location, being close to local gastro pubs, restaurants and cafes including the extensive facilities on Chiswick High Road as well as acton green park. No chain.

LINDENCOTTAGE, GARDENS, W4 LAMB W4 HOMEFIELD ROAD, W4

£330 PER WEEK £1.600,000 GUIDE PRICE £3,000,000

newly decorated lower ground floor garden residential flat with private west facing Large double bedroom with of wardrobes, reception with AA stunning family home located on this prestigious street running south garden. off Chiswick High Road with the benefit off-street parking and room an open wood west floors, bathroom shower over, fitted kitchen, garden.a The flat is on onehall, of double Chiswick's best room, located roads, moments the shops, aspect facing garden.with The accommodation of 2700 sqft comprises spacious entrance reception impressive full-width from kitchen/family restaurants cafés on the High Road and 5 onto minutes from Turnham Green station. The property is available earlymaster September, furnished. room with bespoke kitchen and bi-fold doors the garden, landscaped west facing garden with lovely open aspect, bedroom suite with dressing room and ensuite bathroom, four further double bedrooms, two further full bathrooms, utility room, cloakroom, underfloor heating throughout the ground floor and to all bathrooms, LUTRON lighting, integrated speaker system, high ceilings and extensive storage throughout. No chain.

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LETTINGS POINT WHARF FOSTER ROAD,LANE, W4 TW8

£350 PER WEEK GUIDE PRICE £2,500,000

ABeautifully rare to market generously semi-detached family locatedsought on this sought after residential street moments from Road. presented twoproportioned double bedroom secondperiod floor flat in home this highly after riverside development. Boasting a Chiswick stunningHigh open plan Offering 2700sqft ofside accommodation house comprises a 15’ reception room with bayreception window which to a 22’ kitchen/dining kitchen approximately reception room, a river balcony andthe a master ensuite bedroom. Large open plan room,leads fullythrough fitted kitchen with granite work room, large reception whichviews. opensUnderground onto the garden, 45’ west facing garden with large garden shed, master bedroom with ensuite shower room, six tops, further fitted wardrobes androom riverside parking space included. further bedrooms, two further bathrooms, host of original features throughout including tiled entrance hall, extensive built-in storage throughout, cloakroom, cellar and eaves storage. Foster Road is a couple of minute’s walk from Chiswick High Road’s shops, cafes and restaurants and close to local parks.

QUEENHALL ANNES GROVE, LAMB COTTAGE, W4 W4 STILE GARDENS, W4

£430 PER WEEK £1.600,000 £1,349,500

A large, light and beautifully twohome double desirable road in the of Bedford Park, just minutesfrom from An immaculately presented end ofpresented terrace family on abedroom generous flat plot on withthis a 60’highly south facing garden located onheart this quiet residential street moments Turnham Green underground floor position beautiful views from the reception and bedrooms.comprising an entrance hall, Strand on the Green riverside. Thestation. house isTop arranged over threeensures floors and totals more than 2200 sqft with the accommodation front reception room with bay window and fireplace, a second reception room/dining room measuring 21’7 x16’1, fitted kitchen, lovely landscaped south facing garden with open aspect, master bedroom with fitted wardrobes and ensuite bathroom with separate shower, four further double bedrooms, spacious family bathroom, large covered side storage shed, extensive eaves storage, and a front garden.

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country house town house period house modern house dream house moving house?

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts. You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light. Sumptuous photography and video, and a contemporary web experience not only shows buyers how your home looks, but how it feels to live there. It’s the new, innovative way to add value when selling your house. The premium online estate agency.

London, Surrey and Sussex 0800 917 0447 info@housepartnership.co.uk

housepartnership.co.uk

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PROPERTY • PARTNERSHIP

CORE VALUES ARE AT THE HEART OF ICC, AND DEFINE EVERY PROJECT

Home FRONT

Imperial Corporate Capital announce two groundbreaking new developments in emerging commuter hotspots

ecently announced Nightingale Grove, located in the attractive district of Hither Green, near Greenwich and Lewisham, offers the best of both worlds: an easy commutable distance into central London as well as being surrounded by lush greenery and a village-like community. Located directly next to Hither Green Station, Nightingale Grove consists of 16 high-quality modern apartments (13 two-bed ﬂats and three one-bed ﬂats), ideal

for ﬁrst-time buyers, families looking for extra space, and couples seeking life away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Over in the Borough of Dartford, a new housing development has been submitted. Transforming a disused quarry at Greenhithe. ICC’s ﬂagship development, Little Hithe, will result in 187 new apartments including affordable homes, as well as a greatly improved access link to Greenhithe station for new and existing residents. Designed by award-winning Kent architect Guy Holloway, residents are minutes away from Bluewater Shopping Centre, a 50-minute train ride into the capital, along with having easy access to the A2 and M25. ICC are paying £3million to community infrastructure, Levi, known as a cil payment, which will contribute towards the regeneration of the local community including hospitals and education. The development will also have a net positive impact upon the local economy with the increase of construction jobs, increased number of residents, council tax contribution and retail expenditure. ICC are also set to announce plans for a new dementia village in Bromley imminently. According to the NHS, the number of people

with dementia is expected to double in the next 30 years and costs are likely to treble to over £50 billion. The UK Government plan to combat the rise in dementia by highlighting the need to focus on producing suitable housing, in the form of dementia villages, for those suffering with the disease. The pre-application for Ravensbourne includes two retirement living units comprised of 1 and 2 bed apartments. All apartments will have balconies that face into landscaped areas within the site to maintain privacy of neighbouring properties to the west of the site. The dementia care facility is located closer to the site entrance and provides undercroft parking for the proposals. ICC’s other future development is focused on helping to put Cambridge Meridian Golf Club on the map, not only in the UK, but internationally. Working with SportInCare and the PGA, ICC are in talks to build 260 units comprising of retirement homes, flats, as well as a proposed clubhouse and hotel spa, rooftop clubroom and restaurant. This affiliation will help exponentially to improve everything from club profitability to course satisfaction, along with giving a real boost to the Cambridge golfing community. Imperial Corporate Capital PLC is a UKbased real estate developer and investor and focuses predominantly on real estate with other past and present business interests in Asia, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom. ICC are constantly adapting to the changing business environment in order to identify, understand and tackle new opportunities. Core values are at the heart of ICC and define every project. Compliance, the ability to understand and diverse ever-changing market frameworks add invaluable expertise. Best Practice, the commitment to follow best practices and market standards to ensure the offering to clients is transparent, secure and sustainable. Business Model, a responsible, diligent approach to long-term investment enables investors to manage risk more effectively and reap the returns that property investment has to offer. For further information on ICC and pending projects, please contact Imperial Corporate Capital PLC Real Estate Developer 559A Kings Road ,Fulham London SW6 2EB info@imperialcorporate.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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They have sold over 5,000 London homes in their careers priced between £500,000 and £20,000,000. That is about £5,000,000,000 worth of property. They deliver exceptional advice, service, communication and results for each individual sale. Their personal approach and unique marketing and research platform, triples the chances of selling your home.

E. ldn@youhome.co.uk

@YOUhomeLondon

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@YOUhome_ldn

T. 020 7908 9280

@YOUhome_ldn

youhome.co.uk

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This team has sold over 5,000 properties in their careers. They have over 200 years property selling experience.

How much is your property worth? Request a free, confidential, no obligation valuation consultation from your local YOUhome expert.

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North View, Wimbledon Common

£7,950,000

Helme Close, Wimbledon

£2,295,000

Overlooking Wimbledon Common golf course, on a plot of 0.2432 acres, with a detached studio annexe and tennis court. Drawing room, study/reception room, kitchen/dining/family room, 5 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, garage & OSP ER/D & F.

A modern detached house in a quiet cul-de-sac conveniently located for the Village and the town centre. Reception room with balcony, family room, study/bed 4, kitchen/dining room, 3-4 double bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, terrace and garden, garage & OSP ER/D.

Somerset Road, Wimbledon

Steeple Close, Wimbledon Village

£3,175,000

A charming Grade II listed house overlooking the All England Lawn Tennis Club. 2 reception rooms, study, kitchen/breakfast/family room, 5 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms, south facing garden, garage & gated driveway parking ER/D.

£3,450,000

In a stunning Village location with a lovely garden and views towards the London skyline. Drawing room, kitchen/family room, 6 bedrooms, 4 bath/shower rooms, secluded garden, garage & OSP ER/C.

Wimbledon Village Office Sales: 020 8947 9833 Lettings: 020 8879 9669 • ROBERT HOLMES_2021.indd 1

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www.robertholmes.co.uk

Coombe Lane, Wimbledon

£1,300,000

Ullswater Close, Kingston Vale

£2,650,000

Very attractive 4 bedroom family house that has been completely refurbished by the current owners to a high standard. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, open-plan kitchen, utility room, garden, summer house, off-street parking.

A recently modernised and substantially extended 5 bedroom detached house of immense contemporary style and quality. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms (open plan), quality kitchen, utility room, study, garden, off-street parking.

Warren Road, Coombe Hill

Beverley Lane, Coombe Hill

£2,895,000

Overlooking the golf course, this 5 bedroom property has undergone a comprehensive programme of refurbishment to a high standard. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, utility room, quality kitchen, double garage, off-street parking, garden, heated swimming pool.

£5,000,000

Unique and charming 6 bedroom house with period stables attached which have been converted into 3 self-contained flats. 6-9 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms, 6 reception rooms, double garage, gym, study, cinema room, off-street parking, garden.

Coombe Office Sales: 020 8947 1100 • ROBERT HOLMES_2021.indd 2

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Working from home? Let’s find you a home for work and play.

jll.co.uk/residential Sales | Lettings | New homes

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

HIGH

R ISE The Acorn Group reaches new heights

hether you know of The Acorn Group through their high street estate agency offices Acorn, John Payne, and Langford Russell, or their other brands Start and MAP, the group has always aimed to be a one-stop-shop for all property-related needs. From first time buyers, to seasoned landlords or investors with a portfolio, for nearly 40 years, Acorn have helped people buy, sell, rent, let, and manage their properties, both residential and commercial. Along the way the group has established pioneering consumercentric services such as their

new homes division, a full service commercial arm, a dedicated build-to-rent department (one of the front runners in London and the South East), and extensive property and estate management teams – all working alongside a 38-office branch network. In fact, in addition to the 175 staff in high street offices, the group also employs in excess of 200 highly skilled property professionals in their other specialist divisions, all of whom have now been brought under one roof following the group’s exponential growth over the last decade. “We are proud to announce the opening of our 14,000 sqft bespoke built, state-of-theart headquarters adjacent to Bromley

ROB SARGENT

South station at the gateway to the Town Centre. This will allow the divisions that support our branch network to expand and grow in line with our clients needs,” said CEO Rob Sargent. “This new HQ will see one of the biggest and most diverse concentrations of property professionals under one roof outside of central London.” “We are always excited to innovate and stay on the cutting edge of the estate agency industry, embracing the latest technology to interact with our clients and deliver the outcomes they desire.” In addition to the new head office, The Acorn Group is also celebrating the opening of a new branch in Rainham, Kent, hot on the heels of the Strood office launch in the last quarter of 2020. “The Covid pandemic has delayed our expansion plans by a few months, but as strong believers in the provision of full service estate agency, a network of high street offices is the only way to deliver the service our customers deserve,” said MD Neil Louth. “Decades of experience has shown that estate agency remains a people business. This is reflected in the continued investment in both the size of our network and the team that works within it.” Find out more about The Acorn Group by visiting acorngroup.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/lr

Shepherds Green, BR7 £3,000,000 F/H

An immaculately presented detached family home sitting on 0.46 of an acre plot just moments away from Chislehurst’s Royal Parade. 5

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

Longdon Wood, BR2

Barnmead Road, BR3

Measuring approx. 4,200 sqft is this spacious five bedroom detached property arranged over three floors, occupying a large plot within the exclusive, private gated Keston Park.

Well-presented four bedroom semi-detached Victorian house, stacked full of character and maintaining many original features dating back to 1887.

£2,195,000 F/H

£1,200,000 F/H

Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988

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Contact Beckenham 020 8663 4433

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Nestled in the heart of East Dulwich, Featherstone Mews is a brand new collection of seven luxury 3 & 4 bedroom homes for sale. All homes come complete with stunning private roof terraces, downstairs courtyard gardens and allocated parking spaces. Located just 5 minutes walk from East Dulwich Station.

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Prices from £1,000,000

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CO M I N G SOO N

Make the move and go for gold...

A new chapter in Greenwich’s history. Valegro is a brand new development of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments for sale in the centre of Greenwich. Help to Buy available. Register your interest today.

020 7089 6567 | acorngroup.co.uk/valegro

Selling agent:

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Developed by:

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A w a r d

ORANGERIES

w i n n i n g

o r a n g e r i e s

GARDEN ROOMS

G a r d e n

C O N S E R VAT O R I E S

r o o m s

OAK BUILDINGS

Call for our inspirational brochure or book an expert design consultation 01278 764444 davidsalisbury.com

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