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S U M P T U O U S LO O K S F O R T H E S LO P E S

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 21/12/2018 12:03

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28 Contents ABSOLUTELY

JANUARY 2019

14

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

18

AGENDA

Diary dates for January

22

STAGE NEWS

Theatre highlights for the month

122 FOOD & DRINK 60 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

62 RECIPES

Endless ways with carrots

76

INTERIORS INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News and views from the world of design

80 COLOUR SCHEME

28 THE SHOOT

T R AV E L 122 SAND AND SPICE

Chic skiwear at Net a Porter

This month’s best beauty buys

'Tis the month to treat yourself

PROPERTY 140 LIVING THE DREAM

ABSOLUTELY

Notting Hill & Kensington

JANUARY 2019 / £3.95

Skin

DEEP

IN THE

New Year beauty solutions

STUDIO Bella Freud’s stylish vision for TV Centre

NEW

BUILDS London’s best extensions

The most luxurious London properties

Ski STYLE ZEST.LONDON

44 NEW YEAR BEAUTY

Luxury in Zanzibar

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.

JAN UARY 2019

41

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

Bella Freud's vision for Television Centre

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

NOTTING HILL & KENSINGTON

FA S H I O N 26 ROCK SOLID

Jewellery for 2019 - inspired by birthstones and horoscopes

60

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ON THE COVER

S U M P T U O U S LO O K S F O R T H E S LO P E S

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 20/12/2018 14:16

net-a-porter.com

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

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20/12/2018 14:18

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES GROUP SALES MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI MAGAZINE MANAGERS CHARLOTTE RISSBROOK, REBECCA FLEUR, TOLGA SAYLAN

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PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@zest-media.com

First Floor, 197 City Road, London EC1V 1JN T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 zest.london Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

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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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Editor’s

EXTENSIONS Thinking about a build? Get inspired. page 92

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S January issue highlights

1

H

appy new year! Now that we have made it through Christmas and into 2019, we're filled with optimism for the year ahead. This issue is bright, cheerful and eclectic, enthusiastically embracing a wider than ever variety of topics. This month we are excited about everything from ski fashion to champagne via stylish and eco-friendly lightbulbs, vegan recipes, cashmere sweaters and luxury luggage, taking in personalities as diverse as Iris Apfel, Bella Freud and xxxx. We have perfume inspired by motorbikes, jewellery inspired by the zodiac and a Dutch fairytale park; we have been to Kent on the beautiful vintage Belmond Pullman train, as well as to Zanzibar, Belfast and the Cote d'Azur (not by train). And still we have found time to be focusing on maintaining our beauty regimes and looking after our skin the way we mean to go on. And laughing in the face of traditional alcohol avoidance at this time of year, we are launching a regular new drinks page. Here we'll be recommending champagnes and looking at interesting spirits, beers, bars and glassware.

Cheers to 2019.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

THE SOUTHBANK CENTRE’S RUMPELSTILTSKIN

We love a dark fairytale, especially with a large dose of the surreal. page 22

BELLA FREUD X RETROUVIUS

Two of our favourite visionaries team up to design a dream home for Television Centre. page 80

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4 CHAMPAGNE

Who cares if it's January? The champagne is still flowing. page 67

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I RIS APFEL

Our favourite fashion icon page 79

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

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Wish LIST

Dress u p It’s time to banish your slouchy jumpers to the back of the wardrobe because Borgo de Nor’s maxi dresses are the perfect antidote to cold weather dressing. Thick, tailored and versatile, we love them with boots and a biker jacket. borgodenor.com

SOFT TOUCH We’re coveting everything from the latest Madeleine Thompson resort collection, but nothing is more comforting for the colder months than this beautiful cashmere cardigan; £305. madeleine-thompson.com

Eye SPy

TALKING POINT In typical Tom Dixon style, this abstract cushion is effortlessly cool and will add a talking point to your interiors.

Inspired by urban perspective sketches, it features a tapestry-style cityscape made with hand-crafted linen-blend pile; £100. selfridges.com

Favoured among the fash-pack, this Matisse-inspired bag is set to be a hero piece for emerging British leather goods brand, Paradise Row. With its petroleum blue leather and gleaming gold lines we’re pairing ours with everything from denim to evening wear; £395 youngbritishdesigners.com

10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

H E L E N B R OW N

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES CIT Y SLICKe r We’re down to the last remaining Quality Street and our jeans are feeling snug, but thankfully new hybrid brand PERFF Studio looks just as stylish in the gym as it does in the city. On offer are timeless athleisure pieces manufactured with luxury fabrics and recycled materials. perff.com

COAT TALES Saint Laurent has been perfecting the pea coat since 1962 and this shrunken version epitomises the timelessness of the brand. Layer yours with one of the label’s marinière sweaters.; £2,855. net-a-porter.com

EDITOR’S PICK

LITTLE LUXURY The Wolseley have called on an established chocolatier with a Royal Warrant to create this indulgent drink. Swirl yours into a generous mug of hot milk and pile on the whipped cream to replicate the way it’s served to guests at 160 Piccadilly; £15.99. selfridges.com

A DATE WITH DESIGN Favoured for its hand-printed processes and breathtaking designs, home-grown brand Esmie harnesses its appreciation for traditional Japanese aesthetics with the Flying Cranes diary; £25. libertylondon.com

MAD HATTER With a hat a near-permanent feature of any outfit during January, we’re favouring the neutral grey of this Lipsy for Next number; £14. next.co.uk

FOOT WORKS Designed for wear in the city, Moncler’s Patty boots are a year-round timeless accessory to wear with a minimalist or sporty outfit; £480. harveynichols.com

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

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“A truly irresistible tragedy” THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

MANON Get swept up in a breath-taking journey of love, decadence and passion

16 – 20 JAN Videos, tickets and more at ballet.org.uk/manon Dancers: Alina Cojocaru and Isaac Hernández. Photo © Jason Bell. Art Direction and Design: Charlotte Wilkinson Studio

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C U LT U R E MAGENTA GAZE, LISA WRIGHT; COURTESY OF LONDON ART FAIR, 16 - 20 JANUARY 2019, LONDONARTFAIR.CO.UK

What’s On 18 • Theatre Review: Uncle Vanya 20 • Top Theatre Picks 22 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda

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

FOR RIVERS TO RUN THROUGH THE WOOD AND CONCRETE OF FLOORS, 2017, MARK THOMPSON

EX H IBITIO N

Mark Thompson: The World Distilled From 18 January PROUD CENTRAL It’s been 20 years since his first solo exhibition at Proud Galleries and since, Mark Thompson has become an internationally-renowned artist in his field. He returns to showcase his most recent collection of formidable landscape paintings, created painstakingly with layer upon layer of oil paint and glaze on wood.

32 John Adam Street, WC2N; proudonline.co.uk

T H E AT R E

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

TOTEM F RO M 12 JA NUA RY • ROYA L A LBERT HALL

Cirque du Soleil is back at the Royal Albert Hall to take its audience on an exhilarating journey into the evolution of mankind.

Alternating between primitive and modern myths, and peppered with aboriginal stories of creation, Totem explores the evolutionary process of species, our ongoing search for balance and the curiosity that propels us ever further, faster and higher…

Kensington Gore, SW7; royalalberthall.com

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EVEN T

Wedding Bells

27 January THE WEDDING SHOP The Wedding Shop opens the doors to London’s very first wedding gift townhouse. If you’re soon to be married or know anyone who is, pop along to their house-warming party on Sunday 27th January, and enjoy some bubbles, canapes, gorgeous interior inspiration and wedding planning advice from the experts.

312 Fulham Road, SW10; weddingshop.com

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

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

AROUND

EX H IBITIO N

TOWN

POSTER GIRLS SUMMER SALES QUICKLY REACHED, BY MARY KOOP, 1925

Until 13 January LO N D O N T R A N S P O RT MUSEUM January is your last chance to catch the London Transport Museum’s Poster Girls, a powerful exhibition that shines a spotlight on 20th and 21st century female graphic designers and their contribution to poster design over the last 100 years. With over 150 posters and original artworks on display, the exhibition recognises forgotten design heroines and reveals the hidden stories behind their work.

Covent Garden Piazza, WC2E; ltmuseum.co.uk

C E L E B R AT I O N

BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON 5 January VA R I O U S L O C AT I O N S Eat, drink and dance to celebrate the life and work of Scotland’s national bard. From poetry readings and slap-up dinners to traditional dancing and whisky toasts, the capital’s restaurants and bars are going all out for Burns Night.

BA L L ET

MANON

LONDON ART FAIR 16- 20 JA NUA RY • VARIOUS LON DON GALLERIE S

T

he London Art Fair returns to the capital in what’s set to be an enthralling medley of modern British and international art from the leading artists of today. A space to discover and buy, the fair houses both museum quality modern and contemporary work, nurturing collecting at all levels with large-scale installations, talks, tours, screenings and specially curated spaces. londonartfair.co.uk

ANDY WARHOL, INGRID BERGMAN WITH HAT, 1983, COURTESY OF GORMLEYS FINE ART

This Month’s Must See

JAMES STREETER, ALINA COJOCARU AND JEFFREY CIRIO IN MANON (C) LAURENT LIOTARDO

16-20 January LO N D O N C O L I S E U M Get swept away in the romantic tragedy of Manon as the English National Ballet perform Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s breath-taking journey of love, decadence and passion. Famous for its dramatic and expressive choreography, this production features some of the most demanding roles in ballet and is accompanied by Jules Massenet’s haunting music performed live by the English National Ballet Philharmonic.

Kensington Gore, SW7; royalalberthall.com

E XHI B I TI ON

CATS ON THE PAGE Ongoing BRITISH LIBRARY In this unmissable offering for families, cats and their capers are celebrated in rhymes and stories familiar to us from childhood.

Whether raising a smile, solving a crime, wreaking magical havoc or even performing in theatre, cats take centre stage in this free exhibition. 96 Euston Road, NW1; bl.uk.

F I L M

LONDON SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 11-20 January VA R I O U S L O C AT I O N S Enjoy short film screenings, discover emerging talent and attend industry events as the London Short Film Festival returns for 2019. Now in its 16th year, this celebration of short films showcases the best in the industry. Various locations; shortfilms.org.uk

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

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THEATRE • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

Uncle Vanya Chekhov returns to the Hampstead Theatre

By DONNA MCCAFFERT Y

T

erry Johnson's modern rewrite of this Chekhov classic is an aesthetically beautiful play with touching moments. Johnson presents us with a play brimming with beautiful moments, superb acerbic wit and real honesty. Quite refreshing for a piece that is regular in any Chekhov programming.

The crowning glory of the show is the authenticity of the actors, with a stand-out performance from Alan Cox as Vanya.

Set in 1890s Russia, Uncle Vanya amplifies a multitude of themes and topics that are still relevant today. It opens with a delicate atmosphere where we instantly get a feel for the secluded country estate life the characters are inhabiting. Beautifully created by designer Tim Shorthall, the

20

These characters are longing for lives they cannot achieve forest slowly encroaching upon the elegantly decorated wooden house gives the viewer a sense that the characters, as well as the estate, are returning to their raw, crueler selves. Serebriakov, the owner of the country estate and a well-educated professor who enjoys writing philosophical ramblings, is married to Yeliena, a beautiful woman a great deal younger than himself.

Yeliena finds herself stuck in a love triangle and wonders about the choices she has made in life. “My entire life could occur without me in it” she ponders at one point.

Astrov the local doctor, who is coming to

terms with his age, speaks passionately about saving the forests and the impact this has on the future generations. Existential themes persist, questioning time, death and purpose throughout. The play is full of beautiful motifs, some very subtle and fragmented much like the lives of the characters themselves. Reflecting the environment they are in, the characters are quite melancholic and all longing for a life they cannot achieve living. Points of great sorrow are contrasted by many wonderful touching moments such as Marina the witty Nan sharing a peaceful moment knitting with Telyeghin, a gentle soul who often holds his guitar close to him. The connection between them is powerful and yet they are simply enjoying their final stages of life. Cox’s performance throughout is extraordinary, especially as Vanya’s journey progresses from broken man dealing with harrowing regret to him finding the strength to endure what life has yet to put on his path. Sonia his niece played by Alice Bailey Johnson, is a very truthful, intimate yet strong woman of her time. Sonia, like her uncle, is longing for companionship and dreams of the afterlife proving to be in their case, a much more enjoyable experience.

VERDICT

Aesthetically beautiful and touching ★★★★★ U N C L E VA N YA UNTIL 12 JANUARY Hampstead Theatre, Eton Avenue, NW3;

hampsteadtheatre.com

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CULTURE • THEATRE

ROUND UP

Best in SHOW Get the most out of London’s theatre scene with our top stage picks for the month

MUST SEE

Rumpelstiltskin ★★★★★ Until 6 January

QUEEN ELIZABETH HALL

In its UK premiere, this beloved family fairy tale is reimagined with lashings of magical mayhem and unmissable music.

Rumpelstiltskin is a ground-breaking theatrical spectacle that is anything but traditional.Expect visually stunning costumes, a modern set and largerthan-life characters. Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1; southbankcentre.co.uk

By H E L E N B R O W N

Switzerland ★★★★★

Until 5 January AMBASSADORS THEATRE

It’s 1995 in the Swiss Alps. Patricia Highsmith, the queen of the thriller, now ageing and ailing, hides away in her study, surrounded by her books and her cats. A polished young man turns up to persuade the great writer to pen one final instalment of her best-selling series, but it soon becomes clear that the charming stranger is set on a far more sinister mission. West Street, WC2H; theambassadorstheatre.co.uk

Summer & Smoke ★★★★★

Until 19 January

SUMMER & SMOKE

Circus 1903 ★★★★★

DU K E O F YO RK’ S TH E ATR E

Until 5 January

Trapped between desire and a life of obligation, Alma meets John and her would turns upside down. With cleverly stripped-back staging and themes of love, loneliness and self-destruction, Rebecca Frecknall’s exquisite production of Tennessee Williams’ Summer and Smoke transfers to Duke of York’s Theatre. St Martin’s Lane, WC2N; summerandsmoke.co.uk

ROYA L F E STI VAL HALL

Rosenbaum’s Rescue

Experience thrills and daredevil entertainment as Circus 1903 makes its European premiere. Expect sensational puppetry from the award-winning team behind War Horse, jaw-dropping and dangerous acts, high wire performers and more. This show transports audiences of all ages to the mesmerising Golden Age of circus. Belvedere Road, SE1; southbankcentre.co.uk

★★★★★

From 9 January PAR K TH E ATRE

In the October of 1943, seven and a half thousand Jews flee Denmark in fishermen’s boats, crossing the water to Sweden and to safety from the Nazi regime. Armed with a new perspective and information unavailable at the time, this miracle rescue is re-examined for a modern audience in Rosenbaum's Rescue.

Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, N4; parktheatre.co.uk

ROSENBAUM’S RESCUE

CIRCUS 1903

22

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FASHION

ENGLISH ROSE JOHN CHARLES

Harrods will be showcasing the John Charles Spring/Summer 2019 Collection from December 2018. Synonymous with the best of British luxury, the collection will be available in the International Designer Room. johncharles.co.uk johncharles.com

Birthstones and horoscope gems 26 · The shoot: ski style 28 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Signs & Stones Celebrate your sign this year with our roundup of zodiac jewels & birth stones

SASKIA DIEZ

ALISON LOU

BROOKE GREGSON

Birthday gold and stone earrings, £135

14-karat gold, ruby and and enamel earrings, £1,450

Scorpio 14-karat gold diamond necklace, £1,815

saskia-diez.com

net-a-porter.com

brookegregson.com

LINKS OF LONDON

STEPHEN WEBSTER

IPPOLITA

February sterling silver and amethyst birthstone charm, £60.00 selfridges.com

Jitterbug 18-karat gold opal ring, £1,550

Lollipop 18-karat gold amethyst earrings, £630

net-a-porter.com

net-a-porter.com

STONE AND STRAND

POMELLATO

IPPOLITA

Zodiac 14-karat gold diamond necklace, £285

18-karat rose and white gold topaz earrings, £3,560

Rock Candy 18-karat gold citrine earrings, £730

stoneandstrand.com

pomellato.com

net-a-porter.com

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

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For the ultimate in ski chic this season, visit Net a Porter’s new Ski and Snow Shop S H O P T H E C O L L E C T I O N AT N E T- A - P O R T E R . C O M

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W W W. J O H N C H A R L E S . C O . U K

LONDON

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FASHION • LOUNGEWEAR

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S O F T TO U C H MADELEINE THOMPSON

L O U N G E L O V E R S DON’T WE ALL WANT TO GET COSY FOR JANUARY?

Madeleine Thompson's stylish cashmere collection includes ultra-comfortable cashmere joggers in colours and patterns to match her sweaters. madeleine-thompson.com

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HOME A N D AWAY HEIDI KLEIN

Your Heidi Klein bikini might be relegated to the back of the wardrobe at this time of year, but the swimwear brand has launched a cashmere collection designed specifically with travel in mind, featuring relaxed cuts and clean lines. The dove grey pieces start at £350. heidiklein.com

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WO O L WO R K S SMALLS

Smalls' merino base layers for adults have been long-awaited by everyone whose children have enjoyed the mini versions. Studies show that sleep improves while wearing merino and it's a magic material that keeps you warm and cool, never sweaty and anti-bacterial too. From £62; smallsmerino.co.uk

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T H R OW B AC K OY U N A

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Oyuna's collection of cashmere for living is beautifully soft and spans trousers, sweaters and lots of gorgrous throws in lovely muted shades. From £345; oyuna.com

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N O R T H S TA R MOSHI MOSHI MIND

Danish brand Moshi Moshi Mind has brought its collection of mindful fashion to London. Each style is carefully designed to take you from yoga class to dinner with its simple, functional yet stylish shapes and fabrics. moshimoshimind.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Discover the home of gift lists.

Townhouse now open, 312 Fulham Road.

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

Bridal

COUTURE Absolutely quizzes Britta Kjerkegaard, founder of The Couture Gallery

D

anish designer Britta Kjerkegaard is celebrating 12 years on Kensington’s Campden Street. Known for her signature style of elegant silhouettes and figure-enhancing builtin corsetry, Britta’s gowns come together through a bespoke and personal service that results in a truly unique gown for each bride.

Q What makes a couture gown so special ?

A I believe that having a one-of-a-kind couture gown created especially for you is the ultimate luxury in the quest for the perfect wedding dress. At The Couture Gallery, we offer a very personal service from first sketch to finished gown and our brides are very much part of the creative process. I work very closely with every client, incorporating her ideas and wishes throughout. All our dresses are created at the Atelier to ensure the highest possible standards of work using only the finest silks and laces. We take huge pride in the work we do here and will always strive to create the perfect dress for each bride.

Q Who is the typical Couture Gallery bride?

A It’s difficult to pinpoint a specific type. I have clients from all over the world: Hong

BRITTA KJERKEGAARD

Kong, the Middle East, Australia, New York, Europe – all very different in both look and style. The one thing they all have in common is that they are all searching for something slightly different and a dress that they can play a key part in creating.

Q What does the Couture Process entail?

A At the first consultation, we discuss initial thoughts about the kind of design and style the bride prefers, the type of wedding she is planning and the overall look she is after.

Thanks to many years of experience, I am able to offer expert advice on design, colour, and styling possibilities and suggest things that she might previously not have thought about.

I always allow plenty of time in a relaxed atmosphere, making sure it is a very enjoyable and special experience for the bride, who will take home lots of ideas and inspiration.

The second consultation is where we finalise the design as much as possible,

choosing silks, laces and trimmings, and go through my sketches and any additional ideas. After measurements are taken, works commences on creating a personal pattern, from which the dress is partly made up in a different material to check proportions and fit, before cutting the silks.

Almost all of my couture gowns have my signature built-in corsetry, which shapes the body and lays the foundation for the entire design, so this step is crucial to achieving the perfect fit.

Because everything is made at our in-house atelier, we are able to easily accommodate any changes and incorporate new ideas along the way.

Lastly, accessories such as veils and headpieces are finalised, designed and created to complement the dress, adding the perfect finishing touch to the overall look.

Q How would you describe your style?

A I love designing dresses that turn heads: my gowns are definitely not for the shy! I prefer dramatic yet elegant styles with floor-sweeping skirts and intricate embellishments. Recurring themes in my collections are nature and flowers, such as handmade silk organza ones, intricate embroidery on French lace, or as delicate appliqués and adornments. Very intricate, romantic and elegant. My built-in corsetry has taken years to perfect and has become my signature style. I love the way it can shape the body and how it complements the female shape.

T H E C O U T U R E G A L L E RY 6 Campden Street, W8; 020 7792 3100 thecouturegallery.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

HIT THE BARRE BARRECORE Barre-based exercise is on the rise thanks to its ability to deliver the svelte limbs and impeccable posture of a dancer. To try it yourself, leading studio Barrecore has gorgeous studios all across London. barrecore.co.uk

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SCULPT YOUR BODY & MIND Come to class and feel the change Empower yourself with our Barrecore Method. Our expert barre teachers help exhaust and lenghten every muscle group of your body in a safe, efficient and effective way. Join our warm and welcoming community today, and start feeling the change.

Quote “absolutebarre� for a free pair of grippy socks with your first class in any of our London studios - Chelsea, Mayfair, Notting Hill, Hampstead, Kensington, Moorgate, Chiswick, Wandsworth or Wimbledon.

barrecore.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

Skin scrubs, sultry new scents and a skin palette with a difference B y H E L E N B R OW N

BEAUTY REVIEW

Sassoon Salon

GENDER NEUTRAL J E C CA M A K E - U P

The first product from cool, new brand Jecca Make-Up is a genderneutral, oil-free, matt Correct & Conceal palette, available in two shades (light and medium). Founder and make-up artist, Jessica Blacker, says: “Make-up has no gender. At Jecca we overlook gender and celebrate individuality.”£20;

B y C H A R LOT T E R I S S B R O O K

jecca-makeup.com

MORNING BREW

EDITOR’S PICK

I S L A A P OT H E CA RY

Isla Apothecary’s Coffee + Cinnamon Body Polish takes advantage of the natural benefits of green coffee oil.

It’s full of linoleic acid and vitamin E, which boost cell-turnover, tighten and smooth, as well as protect against free radicals. £34; islaapothecary.com

SEASON OF SCENT J O M A LO N E LO N D O N

This month sees purveyor of heavenly scents, Jo Malone London, add a new fragrance to the Cologne Intense collection.

Bronze Wood & Leather is smoky and warm with vibrant juniper, fresh grapefruit and a mysterious twist of vetiver to evoke the scent of sultry leather encased in wood. From £75;

I

t was a beautiful crisp winter’s morning when I walked from my home in Kennington to the stylish Sassoon Salon on the Kings Road.

I was booked in for a colour and a haircut and so was in for a treat. Daine Zib was my colourist for the day and Natashe Hudyma the creative stylist. First up was the colour: Daine did an incredible job and advised me on what would look best. I ended up going for a half-head of highlights which she did beautifully, even though my thick hair meant there were a lot of layers to get through. Once she had finished my colour I sat under a hot lamp until my hair was ready to be rinsed.

Having my hair washed is always my favorite part of the appointment and I was delighted to be asked whether I wanted a head massage – yes I did!

After a long relaxing head massage I was escorted over to another area of the salon and Natashe sat me down for my haircut. She was lovely and an incredible hairdresser, advising me on what I should go for. Following the haircut she blew dry my hair and the colour started to show, I felt fabulous and the colour was the exactly what I had envisioned. I hadn’t visited Sassoon Salon before and I will definitely be returning. The experience was incredible; I met a friend after on the King’s Road and they complimented me on my colour – this salon are certainly doing something right and I will be returning.

SA S S O O N SA LO N 124c King's Road, SW3

sassoon-salon.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND

EDITOR’S PICK

IMAGE SKINCARE Hydrating recovery mask, £9 each imageskincare.co.uk

JURLIQUE Signature Serum, £55 jurlique.co.uk

ORIGINS Drink Up 10 Minute Mask, £27 origins.co.uk

VOTARY Super Seed Facial Oil, £70 votary.co.uk

MARIO BADESCU Silver Powder, £12 urbanoutfitters.com

ALGENIST ALIVE Prebiotic Moisturiser, £40 spacenk.com

SISTER & CO Instant Moisture Mist, £22 sisterandcoskinfood.co.uk

CLEAR WINNERS PREVISE Hydrating Skin Cleanser, £32 wolfandbadger.co.uk

Look fresh-faced this January with these skincare solutions B y PENDLE HARTE

ORGANIC YOUNG BY GREEN PEOPLE My Skin Goals, £30 greenpeople.co.uk

CAUDALIE AESOP XDamascan Rose Facial Treatment, £51 aesop.com

Vinopure collection, from £18 uk.caudalie.com

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Beauty

FIXES Essential treatments for a whole new you in 2019 B y H E L E N B R OW N & P E N D L E H A R T E

SALO N

HAIR A NEW SHADE ST I L

● Stil is the successful salon run by stylish Swedish-born Christel Lundqvist, whose eye for colour is famed. When she’s not styling fashion shoots or considering possible sites for more salons, she can be booked to cast her magic over your hair: for me she recommended her newlyinvented Prism Lights method, which is neither highlights not balayage exactly, but a subtler, light-reflecting touch of colour that’s designed to restore brightness and vibrancy.

Christel hand-paints strands of lighter colour through my locks, aiming to create a halo of light around my face. The results? Shiny, bouncy hair with renewed vigour and brightness.

Exactly right for a new year revamp.

2A Chepstow Road, W2; stil-salon.com

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S PA

NAILS COWSH E D

● Cowshed's lovely Clarendon Road site is a beautiful spot on a sunny day. Windows on both sides of this corner building make it a light-filled space and though small, it's cosy and filled with the sounds of coffee-making and chat. I am here for an Ultimate Manicure, which is a much-needed treatment for my dry, flaky hands. My cuticles are ragged and my nails unloved. This is a lengthy treatment that takes in a hand scrub and a moisture masque as well as an

aromatherapy head massage. I sit back in my armchair and enjoy the calm while my hands take on a revived look. More than an hour later I emerge with impossibly shiny and neat nails painted in an elegant dark grey, with my hands feeling softer and looking entirely revitalised. The kind and competant therapist recommended fortnightly manicures to combat my dry skin; I am going to keep coming back here as often as possible. cowshed.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NEW YEAR

S PA

SKIN

EDEN SKIN CLINIC WIMBLEDON

SALO N

HAIR CONDITION GA SA LON

● Gennaro Dell’Aquila is an awardwinning stylist who pioneered his own 100% natural, plant-based hair colouring treatment. It begins with a wash and a heavenly head-massage.

Next comes the colour, a herbal infusion which Gennaro mixes with hot water to form a substance that looks not unlike a traditional dye, but without the acrid smell of ammonia.

The recipe is bespoke for all, mine is a blend of chamomile, rhubarb, cassia and henna for a rich chocolate brown.

This is applied to the roots as is, but then Gennaro adds a pot of yoghurt yes, really - and works from midway to tips. This added dose of protein helps mend damaged ends. This is left to work its magic under a heat lamp for 20 minutes before my fabulous new look is unveiled. I leave smug in the knowledge that I’ve achieved it without compromising the health of my hair. gennarodellaquila.co.uk

PHARMACY

HEALTH

● Winter months do nothing for a glowing complexion. With skin dryer than it’s been in a long time, I book in for the Agera Oxy Bright Facial. Designed to remedy ailing winter skin, it's an oxygen-generating enhancement treatment that promises to banish dull, lack-lustre complexions. It begins with a discussion between me and the therapist about my current skin care regime – minimal – and problem areas – enlarged pores around the t-zone. Next comes a thorough cleanse and a two-step Microderma Crystal System with Vitamin C crystals and an activating gel to gently buff away old skin for a smooth, radiant complexion. The products feel lovely - especially a peptide serum that promises improved collagen and elastin production. As I leave the salon my skin feels squeaky clean and has a definite glow; the texture is smooth, plump and dewy for many days after. edenskinclinic.co.uk

T H E O R GA N I C P H A R M ACY

● The Organic Pharmacy now offers a half-hour Express Health Assessment. A BioEnergetic device scans the body and outputs profiles on adrenal function, serotonin, immune function, hydration and pH level – as well as levels of systemic toxicity. A full assessment also audits vitamin and mineral deficiencies, organ function, hormone balance, viruses, bacteria, fungus, parasites, digestive disorders and food intolerance. My adrenal function was low, which didn’t shock me, but I was surprised to see low hydration levels. I’m advised the quality of water is important, even in hot drinks; heavy metals can block the uptake of minerals. Positive news is my immune function is good. I was prescribed holy basil for stress, calcium and magnesium to improve sleep, and Omega 3/6. And also provided with a list of natural cleansers, as well as important vitamins and minerals. theorganicpharmacy.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • SCENT

PERFUME

THE DIRTY FLOWER FACTORY Motorbikes and perfumes aren’t natural partners but the new Kerosene collection is intriguing B y M I C H A E L D O N OVA N

I

recently experienced one of those Hallelujah moments that all perfume zealots pray for. One of those rare occasions when we discover an outstanding talent that reinforces our adoration of perfume and makes us want to shout their name from the rooftops.

The House Of Kerosene is the olfactory vision of John Pegg from Michigan. John is actually a motorcycle mechanic or wrencher by profession – Michigan is the capital of the automotive industry and, as John tells it: “Where I’m from, if you didn’t work in the automobile field, you were most likely unemployed. While each factory may produce a different car part, every factory was exactly the same: production and numbers. To get out of that scene, I learned how to paint and wrench on motorcycles.”

I took this to be a sign. I too love the smells of oil, leather, petrol and a day’s labour and in my debut collection for St Giles I released a fragrance called, prophetically, ‘The Mechanic’.

There are currently a handful of selftaught perfumers emerging as the leading lights of a new generation and John is certainly among them. These are the rulebreakers who make scent simply for the joy of it and indulge in the daring and the different. They have no marketing teams or shareholders to please and with this autonomy comes the freedom to create the extraordinary and to raise the bar in terms of the olfactory experience.

I love the smells of oil, leather, petrol and a day’s labour

The Kerosene fragrances are exciting, transporting conflagrations that engulf the senses and wrap them in a warm embrace.

My first encounter was with Black Vines, which John originally made for himself. The central note is liquorice, an ingredient much feared by the mainstream perfume industry, is both exotic and familiar, blended with balsam of Peru, incense and star anise, a dash of green fig and a dusting of vanilla.

It is a cashmere sweater of a scent, enveloping you in its soft, comforting layers. Copper Skies envisions the early evening, with sweet basil wafting over cedar trees with tobacco leaves beneath the bark. The dark, spicy notes of amber, clove and honey add a nuanced sweetness to the smokey air. The truly remarkable R’Oud Elements completely redefines the ingredient of the decade, Oud, inviting us to enjoy the sunset with smouldering cedar and sandalwood dancing across the flames of oud and amber and all viewed through a haze of titian orange bitters. Broken Theories takes us further into the night as inky clouds of agarwood and incense drift over spiced skin while occasional firey flashes of blood orange illuminate the warm forest floor of sandalwood and vanilla. And finally we emerge into the light with Pretty Machine the scent of crisp, spring air with uplifting notes of lime and linden blossom, a hymn to rebirth, resonant with expectation. Further energising scents include Walk The Sea, a bracing combination of sea salt, white florals, ambergris, cedar and musk that imagine a memory of hide tide clinging to the skin and, for those that don’t want to smell ‘pretty’ all of the time, I would choose Dirty Flower Factory, a fallen angel of jasmine, rose and orange blossom attractively sullied by chilli pepper, peppercorns and musk.

Kerosene is a collection of exceptional scents, handcrafted by a singular talent whose raison d’etre is to create complex perfumes that both seduce and transport.

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AN AWARD WINNING GRADE II LISTED GEORGIAN TOWNHOUSE OFFERING OVER 20 EVENT SPACES FOR 2-300 GUESTS IN THE HEART OF LONDON’S WEST END

To arrange a private show around call our venue team on 020 7307 2474 or email venue@11cavendishsq.com

WWW.11CAVENDISHSQ.COM

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

Most clients describe it as therapeutic and they really enjoy their sessions

In the

KNOW

How does LipoFirm Pro work? Coco Nail Bar tell us everything there is to know

L

ipofirm Pro technology is clinically proven to work by uniquely combining two technologies TriLipo Radiofrequency and TriLipo Dynamic Muscle Activation.

Working simultaneously using a single applicator, they create a synergistic effect that delivers non-invasive fat removal and lymphatic drainage, as well as skin tightening.

What is LipoFirm Pro good for?

LipoFirm Pro is used for inch loss, body contouring, cellulite reduction, face and body skin tightening.

Which areas of the body can I use it for?

We are able to help you treat various parts of the body including thighs, bottom, stomach, waist, arms, face and neck.

How long does each session last?

Each session has a different duration depending on the area being treated, but you can expect about 25-30 minutes of active treatment on average, per session, per area.

How many sessions will I need?

It really depends on your treatment goals and needs, we can discuss this in your complimentary consultation. However, based on experience and evidence, on average for best results we would advise around 6-8 sessions of the treatment of the chosen area.

What does it feel like?

Radiofrequency creates a feeling of warmth as the therapist massages your chosen area with the LipoFirm Pro wand, and a gentle flicking sensation begins as the Dynamic Muscle Activation starts activating your muscles and squeezing the fat. Most clients describe it as therapeutic and they really enjoy and look forward to their sessions.

Are there any contraindications?

Yes, there are a small number of contraindications to the LipoFirm Pro treatment. These include, but are not limited to: autoimmune and cancerous conditions, presence of fibroids in the selected treatment area, those prescribed immunosuppressants and metal implants in the chosen area. We will provide you with a full medical consultation and assessment before your first session, through which we will assess your suitability for the treatment.

It is very uncommon that you will not be a suitable candidate, but we will always provide you with accurate information and act in your best interest.

I’ve had a C-section can I have it done?

Unfortunately you will have to allow a year post-surgery to enable sufficient healing of the skin. After that you can start.

I exercise regularly and have lost a lot of weight. My skin is sagging now; will LipoFirm Pro help tighten my skin?

Yes, a course of LipoFirm Pro treatments is perfect for skin tightening.

How much will it cost?

We are currently running a special offer, prices start from £30 for the neck and £100 for the body.

COCO NAIL BAR 267 Portobello Road, W11 1LR; coconailbar.com

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU Make 2019 the year of keeping your resolutions

F45 RAVENSCOURT PARK The Eight Week Challenge is a complete lifestyle overhaul! Changing years of bad habits isn’t easy but with this tailored program and the support of the F45 RCP family, you'll soon be feeling like a new person. Not only will you burn fat and build muscle with unlimited classes, but you will learn about nutrition and what it means to live a healthy lifestyle.

Your improved reflection in the mirror will be clear to see but you will also sleep better, have clearer skin and enjoy lower stress levels. f45training.co.uk/ravenscourtpark

FORM STUDIOS

COCO NAILBAR Lipofirm Pro technology is clinically proven to work by uniquely combining two technologies - TriLipo Radiofrequency and TriLipo Dynamic Muscle Activation. Working simultaneously using a single applicator, they create a synergistic effect that delivers non-invasive fat removal and lymphatic drainage, as well as skin tightening. coconailbar.com

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It only takes 21 days to form a new habit...

Start 2019 as you mean to go on, and make your body your greatest investment.

FORM, a multi award-winning boutique Pilates and Fitness studio offers small group classes & Personal Training. Based in Notting Hill and drawing folk from far and wide, classes span the signature PUREcore and SWEATcore, (a Pilates hybrid), Aerial yoga, Barre Plus, TRX, Boxing and HIIT. Feeling invincible is a given. formstudios.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

DR RABIA MALIK Are you tired of feeling like you need to wear foundation every day?

If skin tone and texture are your main concerns, or if you are looking to put together a holistic skin care regime, consider seeing Dr Rabia Malik at Grace Belgravia Medical. Dr Rabia specialises in non-invasive and non-injectable skin solutions and is renowned for helping her patients go ‘foundation-free’. drrabiamalik.com

PSYCLE

Psycle is a premium boutique fitness brand that offers class-based immersive, energetic workouts designed to clear your mind and transform your body. With a team of highly knowledgeable instructors, Psycle’s Ride, Barre, Strength and Yoga classes harness the transformative power of movement to help you optimise your fitness and wellbeing. psyclelondon.com

AIMEE JEFFS

BARRECORE

Specialising in strength and conditioning, preand post-natal training, the NBT programs will help you through the demands of a hectic daily lifestyle. As a mother of 4, Aimee understands the importance of optimal health and wellbeing.

Trying for or have just had a baby? She believes improving or maintaining physical fitness is key to a stess-free and healthy pregnancy. She will ensure you and your baby are fit and strong, both physically and mentally. @newborntrainer aimee@newborntrainer.co.uk

Set your own barre for 2019. After the Christmas parties and overindulgence have passed, January is the ideal time to hit the reset health button with a booze detox and New Year fitness plan. With their 10-week challenge kicking off on 14 January, Barrecore wants to help you create good habits to last beyond January. Come to class once, twice, three or more times per week until 31 March, and stand the chance to win a free membership. barrecore.co.uk.

MKC PILATES Start the new year with bespoke Pilates brought directly to the comfort of your own home or workplace. Michaela is a professional ballet dancer and Pilates therapist specialising in postural alignment and rehabilitation. Experience tailor-made, one-to-one Pilates sessions designed to improve stamina, strength, muscle tone, balance and flexibility giving you a sense of well-being.

Bespoke packages start at £65. mkcpilates.com

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Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 January

Create your own animal print Find mythical beasts in the Gallery Learn how to draw Stubbs’s horse See the full list at nationalgallery.org.uk/ survival-festival

www.quaillondon.com

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020 8899 6051

19/10/2018 11:50

HEALTH & BEAUTY • ACTIVE

FITNESS NOTES

By H E L E N B R O W N

POINT ZERO ZERO ONE

The activewear brand to know now WHAT IS IT? tyle meets functionality in new brand, Point Zero Zero One which recently launched with a range of premium, functional sport and athleisure pieces for men and women. The sports performance range comprises bra tops, leggings, men’s tights, functional t-shirts and vests, while leisure pieces include hoodies, sweatshirts and lightweight jackets.

S

WHY IS IT FOR YOU? oint Zero Zero One pivots around quality design and everything has been thought out down to the tiniest technical detail. Created in partnership with design studio IID, the brand fuses quality technical fabrics with style and detailing for overall comfort and performance.

p

WHAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT IT? he brand palette is purposefully monochrome so that it can be mixed, matched and layered no matter what your activity. Point Zero Zero One has fussed over over the smallest details to create garments you’ll want to wear again and again.

T

Prices from £45; pointzerozeroone.com

NEW FITNESS TRENDS FOR 2019 From at-home fitness to 20-minute training, there’s lots to look forward to from the world of wellness.

By H E L E N B R O W N

STREAMING FITNESS CONTENT

ROWING GOES MAINSTREAM

With Netflix, Amazon and Apple TV more popular than ever, it’s no surprise that the rise in streaming services has reached the wellness industry. Autumn 2018 saw Peloton arrive in the UK, the New Yorkbased fitness phenomenon that took spinning to dizzying new heights. These high-tech, at-home spinning bikes are equipped with a 22-inch HD that let you tune in and experience all of the action and adrenalin of 14 daily live and 8000+ on demand-classes - from your living room. Others getting on board with the trend include Fiit.

TV’s influencer led fitness platform and Mirror, the interactive home mirror which tracks and corrects your workouts. Get fit without even leaving your house.

Last year saw a boom in indoor rowing, which is expected to continue into 2019 as the wellness industry continues to recognise the power and efficiency of it as the ultimate full-body workout.

Research by British Rowing states that the activity utilises 85% of the body’s muscles across nine major

muscle groups. Running on the other hand, only targets five major muscle groups. Recognising a gap in the market, personal trainer Chris Heron launched the first integrated rowing studio in the UK in November 2018, The Engine Room, and a number of others are set to pop up in the capital throughout 2019.

GAMIFICATION OF FITNESS Gamification is becoming increasingly prominent in the fitness world, favoured by personal trainers for its ability to provide a more socially connected and motivating workout. It works by tapping into your dopamine neurotransmitter which controls your brain’s reward and pleasure centre. More and more prominent are studios fitted with large screens to run a variety of classes, from sunrise spinning to group competitions. Classes can include features such as realtime ranking and race highlights, individual racer profiles and immersive backgrounds for activity.

HIIT FUSION 2018 saw an outburst of HIIT classes designed to get you working at your maximum intensity for short, explosive intervals. For 2019, a mix of flexibility-based fitness classes will incorporate the principles of HIIT for an all-round workout that will test strength and endurance in one session. The HIIT element burns fat and boosts the metabolism quickly, while practises from pilates, yoga and barre increase flexibility, strengthen all major muscle groups and de-stress. You’ll be getting the benefits from each technique in one routine.

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Destination Hair and Beauty salon. We are committed to your hair and skin, and most importantly, the level of customer care you receive in everything we do. Our team is passionate about science and technology, that above all, makes a real impactful difference.

Book an appointment today

02073529415 salon@elenavon.com 107 Lots Road | London | SW10 0RN elenavon.com

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A BESPOKE HAIR SALON

Specialising in

Dry Cutting • Colour • Facials • Sugaring • For full list of services please see website

23/11/2018 15:41

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROMOTION

This machine delivers results in 14 minutes. And once you’re on, it’s pretty addictive

Home is where the health is Fitness Superstore is here to get your New Year off to a flying start with the latest in must-have fitness equipment

W

ith 10 showrooms, including two in London, we house an unrivalled product range that’s perfect for both fitness newbies and exercise veterans. Featuring everything from treadmills, cross trainers and exercise bikes, to the full strength-training spectrum including multi-gyms, power cages and weights, you’ll find equipment you can’t buy anywhere else in the UK. Offering a premium service from start to finish, we pride ourselves on providing

an unbeatable shopping experience. Every customer is greeted in-store by our expert staff members who strive to ascertain your goals and requirements before helping you select the right equipment. What's more, all the products are available to try before you buy, so you know in confidence that you are making the best choice for you.

One of these products, is the Bowflex MAX Trainer. Combining the power of an elliptical and a stepper, this machine delivers results in under a quarter of an hour. And once you’re on, it’s pretty addictive.

Why? Because it’s a fun, motivational machine that provides you with not just

quick results, but MAX results. Blitzing 2.5 times more calories than any other cardio machine, and engaging 80% more upper body muscles, you get the same results you’d get in 35-45 minutes on a treadmill in less than half the time. What's more, the MAX Trainer is easier on your joints than a treadmill, meaning it’s the perfect introduction to fitness for beginners.

There are three models – the M3, M5 and the M7 – and they all feature the innovative 14-minute MAX Interval™ Workout.

Intervals are proven to scorch more calories than steady pace exercise by getting your heart rate right up for energetic bursts between short recovery times. Not only is it incredibly effective, but it’s far more motivating than a long slog on a treadmill or elliptical trainer. We know that feeling motivated can be a struggle, but the beauty of 14 minutes is just that – it’s only 14 minutes!

Made for working out at home, the MAX Trainer is compact and will fit pretty much anywhere, meaning you can get fit from the comfort of your own home – it really is the ultimate fitness resolution companion.

Exclusive to Fitness Superstore, you can experience the MAX Trainer for yourself at our stores at The Hyde in Colindale or on Wandsworth High Street - we look forward to seeing you soon.

F I T N E S S S U P E R S TO R E 167-173 Wandsworth High Street, SW18 4JB; 0203 3708 856 • Hyde House, The Hyde Colindale, NW9 6LH; 0203 3708 855 • fitness-superstore.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • ADVICE

Q&A

Ask the EXPERTS Absolutely seeks out wisdom from the area’s most trusted sources

ADELE MARIE Ego Hair, Queen’s Park’s favourite salon egohair.co.uk

Q What are the benefits of organic shampoos?

A You avoid harmful chemicals.

Commercial shampoos have a wide number of chemicals such as sodium and aluminum lauryl sulfate, derivatives of lauryl alcohol, propylene glycol and olefin sulfonate which have several negative effects on the hair and scalp, such as

irritating the sebaceous oil glands and drying out the hair. Sodium lauryl sulfate is also being considered to be especially harmful as it is absorbed by the body and may have negative consequences.

They are excellent for sensitive skin. Since organic shampoos are made of natural products, the likelihood of allergic reactions and causing skin sensitivity is low, making them perfect for those with allergic and sensitive skin.

They are environmentally friendly.

The use of organic shampoos do not pollute the environment as they break down into organic compounds that decay into the soil without causing any harm to plant and animal life.

Organic shampoos stimulatehair follicles, leading to faster hair growth and promoting the growth of new hair.

JEAN-CLAUDE VACASSIN Founder of W10 Performance Gym w10.fit

Q How can I fight the festive fat?

A Not surprisingly, Christmas is a time when we focus on weight loss. To help you beat the seasonal bulge, we’ve compiled our four best training methods for maximum fat shedding.

1. Do full-body workouts When it comes to shifting body fat, full-body workouts beat split routines hands down. They challenge our major muscle groups while also placing a serious demand on the cardiovascular system. It’s this magic combination that works wonders.

2. Work from the bottom up Another effective way to burn fat is to perform ‘super sets’ or ‘giant sets’ (circuits) using exercises that alternate between the upper and the lower body. This places a massive metabolic demand on the body and allow one set of muscles to rest temporarily while we work others.

Alternate between squats and chin-ups before moving onto lunges and push-ups.

3. Do more in less time The most successful programmes are those built around a foundation of multi-joint movements, such as squats, push-ups and deadlifts. Combining these with moderate to high reps (8-20) and shorter rest periods allows you to get a lot of work done in a short amount of time.

4. Progressive overload If you’re serious about getting into shape, you need to challenging your body by going beyond your regular limits. Try lifting progressively heavier weights, doing more sets or reps, upping exercise difficulty, or increasing the speed of your cardio work.

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FOOD & DRINK

LIGHT TOUCH BRASSERIE OF LIGHT

Contemporary, artistic and elegant.

Richard Caring's Brasserie of Light - replete with 24-foot, crystal-encrusted Damien Hirst Pegasus statue - is open for business in Selfridges. The destination restaurant and bar is set to be teeming during January's sales season. brasserie-of-light.co.uk

Food Notes 60 • Recipes 62 • Eating out 73 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this January

By FLORA THOMAS

Wine recommendations for the month

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2011 Ch. du Pavillon, Canon-Fronsacu  £19.95 A full bodied red with a rich bouquet and velvety texture. After six years in bottle (following a year’s barrel-ageing), it remains fresh, but has developed enticing leathery aromas. Ideal with hearty casseroles to warm you during dark January days.

2016 Berry Bros. & Rudd Mosel Riesling Kabinett, Selbach-Oster  £10.25 This off-dry Riesling is made from grapes grown on the slate-rich slopes of the beautiful Middle Mosel. Strikingly approachable this crisp, fresh white wine has a searing acidity at its core with lime and floral notes.

2016 Mâcon-MillyLamartine, Les Héritiers du Comte Lafon  £22.95 A delightfully pure and mineral white wine. Its aromas lean more towards ripe citrus (grapefruit) than stone fruit, and are altogether more grown-up, with smoke, a chewy texture and promising youthful bitterness on the finish.

BERRY BROS. & RUDD Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's.

bbr.com

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CHEFS in RESIDENCE CA R O U S E L

Carousel has treats in store for us this January. Chantelle Nicholson, champion of plant-based cooking and vocal ambassador for the food waste movement, takes residency from the 3rd-5th. Then, Romy Gill from the 8th-12th: we’re looking forward to her tamarind spiced octopus. Finally, Matt Ravencroft celebrates Mexican food from the 15th-19th 71 Blandford St, W1U 8AB carousel-london.com

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Our pick of the best

DESK-DELIVERY LUNCHES

FA R M E R J

Light fantastic

Known for bringing the best of the fields to the city, Farmer J's fieldtrays make for a stellar lunch, comprised of a base, a main, two sides and a sauce. For a failsafe combo try brown rice, charred flank steak, grilled broccoli and farmer’s salad, all served alongside a tasty red pepper sauce. farmerj.com

BRASSERIE OF LIGHT

A true destination restaurant if there ever was one, Selfridges's Brasserie of Light boasts a 24-foot crystal-encrusted Pegasus statue by Damien Hirst.

An eclectic mix of British and internationally inspired dishes is on offer, alongside extensive wines and cocktails. A suitable antidote to sales madness.

Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB brasserie-of-light.co.uk

GLOW BOWL BILLS KENSINGTON

Bill’s in Kensington has enjoyed a sparkly refurbishment, all velvet seats and chandeliers. Kickstart your year with a Glow Bowl made up of beetroot cake, picked red cabbage, red pepper tapenade and a miso dressing, served alongside house-baked flatbread. Hello Veganuary.

Kensington Arcade, 123 Kensington High St, London W8 5SF bills-website.co.uk

K A R M A CA N S Just as karma aims to balance good and bad actions, so do Karma Cans balance delicious meals and highly nutritious ingredients. That means protein, lots of greens, healthy fats and wholegrains. Their menu changes weekly, and we can’t wait for wasabi cured salmon during January. karmacans.co.uk

ZEN DEN JUSU BROTHERS

Shish kebab BERENJAK

SUSHI SHOP

Part of the new wave of shish-based venues, Berenjak is named after the handfuls of rice eaten at funfairs in Iran. It’s a home-style Iranian restaurant reinterpreting the classic hole in the wall kebab houses of Tehran.

Start with the Mazeh, and finish with a baklava ice-cream sandwich. Don’t miss the sharbats - fruit cordials served with sparkling water and herbs 27 Romilly St, Soho, W1D 5AL berenjaklondon.com

Clothing brand ba&sh have collaborated with Sushi Shop to produce a limited-edition box in ba&sh’s seasonal colours. With two new exclusive creations, the tarama maki and the fresh salmon roll, there’s no excuse not to add a touch of (delicious) style to your lunch. mysushishop.co.uk

They’ve launched a brand new day and evening menu at this healthy Notting Hill eatery. Not only has the sushi menu been expanded to include Uramaki and Sashimi, Japanese-inspired dishes have been added that pack health benefits and flavour into every bite.

147-149 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2RS jusubrothers.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Squidgy organic carrot and courgette cake Moist and delicious – this easyto-make organic carrot and courgette cake will be a hit with your family and friends!

Serves 14 (approx) Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 40-45 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 150g butter • Finely grated zest and juice of 1 orange • 3 large eggs, beaten • 340g plain flour • Pinch of salt • 1 rounded tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1 rounded tsp baking powder • 1 rounded tsp ground ginger • 225g light muscovado or soft brown sugar • 200g British organic carrots, peeled and grated • 150g courgettes, grated Frosting: • 200g low fat soft cheese • 1/2tsp vanilla extract • 1 small organic carrot, grated • 1tbsp light muscovado or soft brown sugar

METHOD

Rooty

CALL

They’re cheap, nutritious and have a lower carbon rating than any other vegetable.

So don’t forget the humble carrot this month Re c i p e s B R I T I S H O R GA N I CCA R R OT S .CO.U K

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1 Preheat the oven to fan 180°C, fan oven 160°, Gas Mark 4. Grease and line a 23cm square cake tin with baking paper, using a little butter. 2 Melt the remaining butter in a large saucepan over a low heat, without letting it get too hot. Remove from the heat, then add the orange juice and beaten eggs.

Reserve the orange zest for the frosting.

3 Sift together the flour, salt, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder and ground ginger in a mixing bowl. Stir in the sugar, organic carrots and courgettes, then add the melted mixture and stir together well. 4 Turn the mixture into the prepared tin and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a fine skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Cool in the tin for 20 minutes, then turn out carefully. Cool completely on a wire rack. 5 Make the frosting by beating the low fat soft cheese, vanilla extract and reserved orange zest together.

Spread on top of the cooled cake. Put the grated organic carrot into a frying pan with the sugar and heat gently to melt and caramelise. Cool, then scatter over the cake.

Cook’s tip: Keep the cake refrigerated, though serve at room temperature. You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months without the frosting. Use organic ingredients where possible.

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Spiced organic carrot and ginger soup This soup is super-simple to make, with just a few ingredients and three easy steps.

Serves 4 Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 600g British organic carrots, peeled and chopped • 1 large onion, chopped • 2 celery sticks, sliced • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 5cm piece of fresh root ginger, peeled and grated • 1tsp medium curry powder • 1.2 litres vegetable stock • 100g low fat soft cheese • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 4tbsp low fat plain yogurt

METHOD 1 Put the organic carrots, onion and celery into a large saucepan with the garlic, ginger, curry powder and stock. 2 Bring up to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. 3 Blend the soup to a puree using a hand-held stick blender, or transfer to a food processor or blender and whizz until smooth. Add the soft cheese and blend again until it is thoroughly mixed in. Reheat gently, and season to taste. 4 Serve, topped with a swirl of natural yogurt and a little extra black pepper.

Cook’s tip: Cover, cool and refrigerate the soup, using it within 3 days of making it, and re-heating it thoroughly when ready to serve.

Use organic ingredients where possible.

Organic carrot, sage and taleggio risotto Creamy and comforting, there’s nothing quite like a delicious risotto!

Serves 4 Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 2tbsp olive oil • 400g British organic carrots, peeled and cut into small cubes • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 350g risotto rice (arborio or carnaroli) • 200ml dry white wine • 1 litre hot vegetable stock • 1tbsp chopped fresh sage • 100g Taleggio cheese, cut into small chunks • 30g Parmesan cheese, finely grated • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • Sage leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, to garnish

METHOD 1 Heat the oil in a large sauté pan or saucepan and add the organic carrots and onion. Cook gently, stirring often, for 10 minutes. Add the rice and stir over a low heat for 2-3 more minutes, without browning. 2 Add the wine and let it bubble up for a moment or two. Pour in half the stock. Stir well, then cook over a medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3 Cook until the rice is tender, gradually adding the remaining stock, and stirring often. This will take a further 10-15 minutes. Check that the rice is done to your liking – it should be soft, with just a hint of ‘bite’. 4 Stir in the sage, Taleggio and grated Parmesan cheese. Check the seasoning, adding a little salt and pepper if needed. Serve, garnished with fresh sage leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, with a little extra black pepper.

Cook’s tip: If you like, serve the risotto with a few torn-up slices of Parma ham scattered over the top. You could use Brie instead of Taleggio cheese. Use organic ingredients where possible.

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Located at One Tower Bridge. Prosecco House is London’s first prosecco-specialist bar. It stocks Prosecco DOCG, from Veneto, the home of the drink, a creation of owner Kristina Issa, bringing the excellence of Italian prosecco to London. Kristina works with small family-owned vineyards, while the bar has over 20 varieties on the menu, hand picked by Kristina herself, from wineries such as Marchiori, Rivalta, Cirotto, Tasi Bio and Andreola.

PROSECCO HOUSE 1 Crown Square One Tower Bridge London, SE1 2SE @proseccohouse ProseccoHouseLondon

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020 3034 1718 www.proseccohouse.com info@proseccohouse.com

21/11/2018 09:14

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Oaty organic carrot and oregano muffins These savoury muffins make a tasty home-from-school. Or why not pop one into a packed lunch?

Serves 8 Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS

Glazed organic carrot, feta and red onion tart It’s amazing how much f lavour there is in the not-so-humble organic carrot Serves 6 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 40 minutes

INGREDIENTS • 300g British organic carrots, peeled and cut into batons • 2 red onions, sliced • 1tbsp olive oil • 2 sprigs rosemary • 2 sprigs thyme • 500g pack puff pastry • A little flour, for dusting • 1 small egg, beaten with 1tbsp water • 1tbsp balsamic vinegar • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 4tbsp pesto sauce • 100g feta cheese • Rosemary or thyme sprigs, to garnish

METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 220°C, fan oven 200°C, Gas Mark 7. 2 Put the organic carrots and onions into a roasting tin and add the olive oil, tossing to coat.

Add the herb sprigs and roast for 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.

3 Meanwhile, roll out the pastry into a rectangle measuring approximately 35x25cm. Transfer to a lightly greased baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score a border about 3cm from the edges of the pastry, without cutting right through. Brush this border with the beaten egg mixture.

4 Allow the organic carrots and onions to cool, removing the herb sprigs. Stir in the balsamic vinegar with a little salt and pepper and toss together. While the carrots are cooling, bake the pastry for 20-25 minutes until risen and golden. 5 Gently press down the pastry within the border.

Spread the pesto sauce over this area, then arrange the roasted carrots and onion on top. Crumble over the feta cheese and bake for a further 5 minutes. Serve, garnished with rosemary or thyme sprigs.

Cook’s tip: Use regular onions if you don’t have red ones. Use organic ingredients where possible.

• 125g butter, melted and cooled slightly • 2tbsp milk • 2 large eggs, beaten • 200g British organic carrots, peeled and grated • 100g wholemeal self-raising flour • 1tsp baking powder • 2tsp dried oregano or mixed dried herbs • 75g porridge oats • 1/2tsp salt

METHOD 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan oven 160°C, Gas Mark 6. Line a muffin tin with 8 paper muffin cases or squares of baking paper. 2 Mix together the cooled butter, milk and eggs. Stir in the grated organic carrots. 3 In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, dried herbs, porridge oats and salt. 4 Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, taking care that you don’t over-mix. Share the mixture between the muffin cases and bake for 25-30 minutes, until firm and golden.

Cool on a wire rack.

Cook’s tips: The secret of successful muffins is to avoid over-mixing the wet and dry ingredients. Freeze some of the muffins in a freezer bag or box – they will keep for up to 3 months. Use organic ingredients where possible.

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET

fabulous

FIZZ

What to drink and how to drink it

By PENDLE HARTE

NEW YEAR’S EVE CHAMPAGNE RECOMMENDATIONS

GLASS SYSTEM L S A I N T E R N AT I O N A L

LSA's balloon glasses are decorated with sophisticated patterns of cuts inspired by the ocean. These generouslyproportioned, versatile goblets are ideal for serving gin and tonic as well as other aperitifs and cocktails. From £28; lsa-international.com

B y T H E C H A M PAG N E G U R U

Bollinger R.D 2004 • £180

The RD is a unique champagne. Grapes are sourced exclusively from 16 of the best premier and grand cru parcels in thte Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs. Notes include dark chocolate, tobacco, black truffles, orange peel and sweet spice.

De Venoge Louis XV 1996 • £205

The new prestige cuvee from De Venoge is a blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay, matured in the cellars for 10 years to develop its aromas. It offers a complex, mature and vinous bouquet: nutty, mushroom, ripe citrus, pear and brioche.

ISLAND LIFE HARRIS GIN

Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Millenaires 2004

Produced on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, distilled in a small copper still, Harris Gin is infused with nine botanicals that capture the maritime influences of the island. Sugar kelp is key to the subtle coastal notes. £37

• £175

harrisdistillery.com

SPIRIT OF LUXURY MORUS

Distilled from the leaves of a single, ancient Mulberry tree, a single batch of this exquisite cask-strength (64% ABV) gin takes more than two years of careful work to produce. This makes it, at £4,000 per bottle, the world's most expensive gin.

You'll find it at Harvey Nichols. morusgin.com

The first new vintage for the cult all-Chardonnay cuvée in almost a decade, this exceptionally textured cuvee is fresh, elegant and floral with notes of lemon, apple blossom and salted butter as well as a toasted buttery nuance of Crème Anglaise.

THE CHAMPAGNE GURU The Champagne Guru is a champagne and food pairing expert, specialising in hosting special champagne events in luxurious surroundings.

STOCKIST & DISTRIBUTOR: Highleigh Ltd, 39 Bromley Common Kent BR2 9LS, +44 (0)7956124806

thechampagneguru.com

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FOOD & DRINK • SPOTLIGHT

ON THE CHAMPAGNE TRAIL How husband and wife team Serge and Malin Ngoie founded @thechampagneguru

C

hampagne brings people together. Top champagne expert Richard Juhlin says it is the "chameleon of all wines" because it tastes different in different surroundings and has so many layers. Champagne is an art form, the champagne houses and their Chefs de Caves are true artists who spend an immense amount of time perfecting their craft.

Our story began five years ago when we lived in Italy for a year. Serge had a work assignment in Milan and we would travel back and forth from London, driving through the Champagne region. We fell

Wo r d s M A L I N N G O I E

in love with the area and stumbled upon a 300-year old house in a little village in Haute-Marne. We ended up buying it, with a plan to open it up for unique, tailormade champagne experiences. The dream of working together with what we both really love started to take shape. Serge’s passion for champagne is legendary and was a good complement to my media, photography and styling background to initiate The Champagne Guru project.

After attending several trade and public champagne events, we realised that there was a gap in the market. We started to look for opportunities where we could add value, bring consumers and producers together in a more exclusive, intimate and relaxed

environment to enhance personal and long-term relationships. Our idea is to work closely with different champagne houses, support them with marketing strategies and create unique and spectacular events in unexpected venues and surroundings.

For our launch event we set the stage on the Thames in an Art Deco boat moored by the London Eye Pier. We teamed up with Richard Juhlin, the World's leading champagne expert, to talk about his recent book Champagne Hiking. We wanted to have fun with the event, to take champagne out of the cellar, add class, expertise and glamour.

On 1st December the red carpet was rolled out. No expense was spared as guests and champagne houses were treated to an unforgettable and magical Gatsby-styled evening with a six-course gala dinner paired with champagnes.

The evening started with a welcome drink

by Champagne Frèrejean Frères – quoted

by Richard Juhlin as one of the best Blanc de Blancs on the market. Imperial caviar canapés were paired with the relatively new house Paul Launois Cuvée Monochrome.

This was followed by a charcuterie platter with foie gras and Parma ham paired with Champagne Billecart-Salmon Rosé NV served from Jeroboams. Seabass carpaccio was excellently paired with Champagne Bonnaire Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 09, followed by a steak tartar served with the amazing Champagne Bollinger RD 2004.

Pan-seared cod, creamed ratte potato and champagne beurre blanc, paired with Charles Heidsieck Champagne Cuvée Blanc des Millénaires 2004, was served as the main course. For the grand finale, outstanding De Venoge Louis XV 1996 was paired with aged Comté, Parmesan and Mimolette cheese.

For the future we would like to engage more champagne houses, to explore marketing avenues and opportunities by tapping into our knowledge of the UK and European markets. The ultimate goal is to expand our business of connecting more people with and through champagnes.

T H E C H A M PAG N E G U R U For more info or to enquire about organising a bespoke champagne event, please contact us on thechampagneguru@gmail.com or +44(0)7956124806

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LISA’S KITCHEN & BAR

Christmas & Group bookings are now available Traditional Swedish Julbord, Set menus and Feast/Sharing menus are all on offer

LIVE MUSIC THURSDAY: Jazz | FRIDAY & SATURDAY: Lisa’s Jukebox

MON CLOSED | TUE & WED 18.00 PM - 00.00 AM | THUR & FRI 11.00AM - 00.00AM | SAT & SUN 10.00AM - 00.00AM +44 (0) 20 8964 8293 | BOOKINGS@LISASPORTOBELLO.COM | LISASPORTOBELLO.COM

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FOOD & DRINK • FOCUS

It’s all so lavish that we are fully expecting there to be a murder

Dining car Absolutely celebrates the golden age of rail travel with lunch on the Belmond British Pullman

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egular commuters through Victoria may have noticed the Belmond Pullman carriages pulling discreetly in and out of Platform 2. They’re easy to spot because they’re nothing like the Southern Rail ones. Belmond Pullman is the sister train to the Venice Simplon Orient Express, and it maintains an entirely different attitude to train travel from all the other traffic that shares it tracks. This is a celebration of train travel as a luxury experience, where the journey is more important than the destination, and where you are not only guaranteed a seat, but you’ll enjoy a lavish meal in beautifully restored Art Deco surroundings while you're sitting.

Stepping on board is like walking into an Agatha Christie movie. The dress code warns us to be smart yet unfortunately we’re not wearing full 1920s garb, though if we had been we’d have totally fitted in, glamourwise. Most of the guests are elderly – it’s uplifting to see so many retired couples living it up this way on a random Friday lunchtime, especially when tickets for two cost £680. It’s as if we’re living in a utopian society where old people are solvent as well as healthy, cheerful and stylish. Each carriage is different because this is a collection of individually sourced and restored carriages rather than a single train. Walls are finished in polished veneers with intricate marquetry and seats are differently upholstered armchairs rather than fixed train seats. (The chairs, interestingly, are too big to get through the train doors so they have to be put in before the carriage is assembled.) There’s so much detail in the interior, spanning mosiacs on the loo floors and original signage (pulling the emergency chain can result in a fine of £50 for improper use, we are elegantly informed, which seems like a lot of money for the 1920s). It’s all so relentlessly lavish and cinematic that we’re fully expecting there to be a murder. In fact, Belmond do host murder mystery trips, and they are considering introducing immersive theatre pieces on board.

But we’re here for lunch, on a round trip from Victoria to Broadstairs. As soon as we pull out, there’s champagne, followed by our five-course feast with wine pairing.

An elegant smoked haddock cake to start, then an intensely flavoured wild mushroom soup, a stylish trip of pork, British cheeses and a decadent chocolate shortbread with salted caramel and caramel. On arrival at Broadstairs we hop off the train to listen to a jazz trio on the platform and enjoy oysters and cider before re-embarking for more champagne and the trip back. belmond.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…

“It’s near-impossible to choose between their enticing array of starters”

Fit for a

VIKING

A small and charming Swedish cuisine restaurant in the heart of Notting Hill

T

B y F LO R A T H O M A S

hursday night at Lisa’s is Jazz Night.

The atmosphere is soulful; guests sitting at intimate two-seater tables listen to a local band play early swing music.

From the varied, mostly European wine list we choose a French white which comes with a selection of bread: Tunnbröd (thin bread); a rye crispbread; and a seedy semolina bread (so far, so Swedish). It’s nearimpossible to choose between their

enticing array of starters so we end up with a Smörgåsbord of tasters.

The cheese pie with a sprinkling of caviar is the star and my guest particularly enjoys the very pretty beetroot cured salmon gravlax.

Fish for mains: the sesame seared tuna is rare in its centre with a tasty crust. My friend’s baked halibut flakes at the touch of a fork and is scattered generously with prawns and fresh shavings of horseradish which complement the meaty fish well. Those looking for a heartier plate of food would do well with the

FOOD Swedish with a touch of Italian

DECOR Pared back cool / Candlelit tables

PRICE Starters from £7.50; Mains from £17.50

wild boar pappardelle which looks and smells divine.

We don’t hold back when it comes to pudding, opting to taste three.

Scandinavian desserts are delicious, and they’re typically served alongside coffee, as opposed to after dinner. We decide to finish the meal on a sweet note anyway. Apple crumble (they call it pie) is heavy on the crumble, with a healthy hit of cinnamon, and apples you can really taste. Kladdkaka directly translated is sticky cake and is a similar to a brownie - dense and sticky with a soft gooey centre - it arrives warm, and it’s our favourite.

Not wanting to leave, we linger long enough to be persuaded by cocktails. Two citrus and apple martinis arrive, made with Swedish Cariel vanilla vodka - the best you can get, apparently. As someone who usually avoids vanilla flavoured anything, I’m surprised to find it completely delicious. Dangerously easy to drink, it’s sweet (but not too sweet) and strong. Begrudgingly we leave, feeling fortuitous to have been introduced to such a stellar spot.

VERDICT Perfect for date nights, catch-ups and everything in between

L I S A’ S B A R A N D K I TC H E N 305 Portobello Rd, London W10 5TD lisasportobello.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS

RED ALERT ANGLEPOISE

This special Russet Red Edition of Sir Kenneth Grange’s Type 75™ Mini desk lamp will make even the coldest North-facing room feel warm and welcoming. Earthy reds may be right on trend at the moment but they’re also remarkably versatile. Introduce as a bold colour statement into a neutral interior, or in striking contrast to primary or classic tones. £130 anglepoise.com

Interior inspirations 76 • Bella Freud x Retrouvius 80 • Lightbulb moments 84 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS NOTES

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

WORLD CUPS SUNNJU

Sunnju’s artisanal ceramics, glassware and titanium vessels are all designed for considered tea and coffee consumption.

Produced by a small team in East Asia, the range is stocked at insidestore. insidestoreldn.com

DRIP FEED THE BARISIEUR

Wake up and smell the coffee... this is a premium alarm clock that eases you into your morning with the soothing sounds of bubbling water along with the smell of freshly brewed coffee. The mix of Scandinavian design and chemistry set chic makes this a stylish piece. ÂŁ345 barisieur.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

EDITOR’S PICK

FA N TA S T I C CERAMICS A selection of our favourite pieces

NICOLA FASANO FOR THE CONRAN SHOP

TOP

Oval Splatter Platter, £110 conranshop.co.uk

LOCK UP FORNASETTI

N'La Chiave Nero' essential oil-based diffuser by Fornasetti is fragranced with the label's signature 'Otto' scent. It's printed with a dual-sided key and lock design featuring opera singer and muse Lina Cavalieri. £355 net-a-porter.com

SHOP SUCH AND SUCH

Such & Such is an online store offering a carefully curated selection of original homeware and lifestyle goods. They source unique, well made and beautifully designed products that tell a story. suchandsuch.co

FERM LIVING Muses vases, from €79 fermliving.com

KARLSSON Original ceramic wall clock, £35 hurnandhurn.com

HABITAT Buzz vase, £35 habitat.com.uk

JONATHAN ADLER Druggist small canister with lid, £POA jonathanadler.com

BROSTE COPENHAGEN

TRAVEL STORY CARAVANE

From raw French linen to Indian block printing, Caravane's edit reflects the travels of its owners, Véronique and Jack-Eric Piedeleu, bridging cultures and decades with timeless products. The beautiful new shop in Coal Drops Yard is full of covetable items. caravane.fr/en

Blue Amalfi vase trio, £20 featherandmarble.com

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new houses | extensions | refurbishments | basement excavations | swimming pools

LO N DO N | LOS A N G E LES

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gregoryphillips.com | +44 20 7724 3040

24/08/2018 12:22

INTERIORS • DESIGN

APFEL WAT C H

Style icon Iris Apfel has teamed up with Nude Glass for a quirky new range of products. ABSOLUTELY can’t wait Wo r d s E V E H E R B E R T

Paperweights feature the American fashion hero’s iconic glasses and lipstick

T

o celebrate the launch of their yearlong partnership with American businesswoman, interior designer and style icon Iris Apfel, global design brand Nude is launching an Inspired by Iris collection of striking designs which draw on Iris’s indomitable style at Maison & Objet in January.

Working with Nude’s design team, Iris has added her own unique touch to existing Nude collections in the only way she knows how: by adding layers of decoration and colour. Tomas Kral’s iconic Beak collection has been reimagined in acid bright colours and bold stripes. Suitable for water or wine, this whimsical collection is the perfect dinner party accompaniment. The once simple Mono Box, originally designed

by Ayse Birsel for Nude, has similarly undergone an Iris Apfel transformation, with clashing colours and elegant patterns being added to the vase’s curved exterior.

An art piece in itself, the multifunctional Mono Box can be used as a vase to complement a beautiful floral arrangement, as a bowl or even as an ice bucket. Other new pieces include a pair of lead-free crystal Iris Apfel paperweights which feature the American fashion hero’s iconic glasses and red lipstick.

Nude’s ethos of ‘simple is beautiful’ might not seem an obvious match for Apfel’s bold, challenging and decidedly unsimple style, but the two agree on one core message: ‘simple is beautiful’. Apfel says: “As you can see I am hardly a minimalist. I love to layer accessories and dress in colour, but that doesn’t mean I don’t think simple. Nude is my simplicity, simplicity is a state of mind, and I think simple is beautiful” The new collections will be available in spring 2019 at nudeglass.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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This super stylish apartment in Television Centre is the product of a collaboration between Bella Freud and Retrouvius’ Maria Speake.

ABSOLUTELY admires it Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

C LO S E TO H E R H E A RT

INTERIORS • DESIGN

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

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here’s something intriguingly atmospheric about the Television Centre flats.

Windows in the circular Helios building face inwards, allowing residents to look into each other’s rooms in a Rear Window-esque way, which of course gives the site excellent cinematic potential.

This slightly surreal element is put to brilliantly stylish effect by Bella Freud, who together with Retrouvius’s Maria Speake has devised a complete interior for the penthouse apartment. Their inspiration for it came from cinema, the 1970s and porn – and the result is glamorous, retro and colourful.

Bella Freud, daughter of Lucian, greatgranddaughter of Sigmund, epitomises west London cool, not just because of her heritage but because of her enduring and timeless style. Her iconic Word jumpers remain objects of desire season after season.

The Grade II-listed Helios building is an icon on the west London skyline, its midcentury aesthetic

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HEALTH INTERIORS & BEAUTY• •DESIGN NOTES

“Their inspiration came from cinema, the 1970s and porn – and the result is glamorous, retro and colourful” lovingly restored in its conversion to a residential development. She said: ‘It was great to work in a place with so much history – that has been so entwined with my life and my interests – and to imagine how I would live there.’

The seventh floor penthouse’s layout is upside down, with bedrooms on the lower floor as you enter, and a large open plan living/dining area and kitchen upstairs, on top of the world. Impressive views stretch for miles over west London on one side of the building – on the other side you can see directly into the neighbours’ lives. Residents have been instructed to keep their laundry out of sight (literally and figuratively) and sliding glass doors open onto large terraces. The living area is decadent – think rich shades of rust, green and gold with stylish lacquered sofa frames in black – and walls range from murky green to ochre to neutral. Vintage light fittings are large in scale: above the glass dining table is a 1960s chandelier arrangement in gold and frosted glass, and a collection of Marcel Breuer cantilever cane chairs.

MARIA SPEAKE (LEFT) AND BELLA FREUD IN THE PENTHOUSE

A small snug room leads off the kitchen area, designed with Bella’s teenage son Jimmy in mind and simply furnished with an outsize screen and a gold corduroy sofa, with cork wall tiles and more gold light fittings.

Downstairs, the bedrooms are cosier and darker.

The master bedroom is painted deep, dark red and a low, metal-framed bed is arranged with Bella’s slogan blankets and cushions. The second bedroom has a thick golden carpet - Bella calls the shade ‘marigold’ – and woollen wall hangings create a luxurious, rich feel.

Maria Speake – dressed on brand in a red 1970 sweater – explains the design process: “We kept saying, ‘is it porny enough?’” Artworks include photographs from Lorena Lohr, sexy, colourful and subversive plates by Eliza Hopewell, and op-art prints by Jacob Wolff.

This isn’t the first time Freud and Speake have collaborated: they have worked on two successive London homes for Bella, as well as her flagship store on Chiltern Street. Speake said: ‘This was a fantastic excuse to work with Bella again. An extraordinary skyline, a historic building... we had a lot of fun.’Helios 710 was imagined by Maria and Bella as a sanctuary for the designer and her family, creating private as well as social spaces leaving their use flexible, ready to adapt to changing needs.

The apartment is for sale at £3.925m, fully furnished; televisioncentre.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Green light Plumen launched the world’s first design-led efficient lightbulb in 2010 and has come a long way since then.

ABSOLUTELY quizzes founder Nicolas Roope

Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

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INTERIORS • LIGHTING

We made a pretty bulb, with nice light and instant startup Q: What is it makes the quality of some lighting so ugly and how can you avoid this?

A: It’s to do with new lighting technology.

The cheap tech doesn’t possess the full spectrum of light. And if certain areas of the spectrum in the light are patchy, then the colours you perceive in that light feel flat, grey and cold – like a horror movie. If you love high quality white light then look for the CRI (Colour Rending Index). Anything in the high 80s and above is going to be pleasant. The other key thing for buyers is to be aware of kelvin. With LED you can buy different light temperatures. If you want the warmer light of a standard incandescent then make sure you buy ‘warm white’ which is usually somewhere around 2700k (kelvins). A cooler, daylight bulb or “cool white” will be a higher number, e,g. 4000k.

These are good for bright, awake spaces, but a bit of a vibe-killer in cosier places. plumen.com

Q: Many of us struggle to understand the environmental impacts of different bulbs.

Could you explain quickly?

A: The main thing to focus on is efficiency.

LED bulbs use less than 20% of the energy incandescent bulbs use to create the same amount of light. Because lighting accounts for such a large percentage of domestic and industrial energy use, then this 80%+ reduction is a huge chunk of saved energy.

And when your energy use is reduced, you don’t need to burn so much coal to generate energy. If we can get clean energy generation to grow and energy use to fall, then one day (hopefully very soon) they’ll meet in the middle and we’ll no longer need to burn things every time we flip a switch.

Q: As the world’s first ‘designer efficient light bulb’ was the Plumen bulb devised to address primarily the ugliness of the original low-voltage bulbs, or the nasty light they made?

A: We started Plumen to address all the issues that stopped people buying efficient bulbs. People’s primary complaints were the ugliness of the products, the bad light quality and the slowness of ignition. So we made a pretty bulb, with nice light and instant startup. Good looks, plus the quality and experience of light are of equal performance. We knew we had to really make people fall in love with the designs and user experience if we were going to make any impact and build a brand.

Q: And how did you go about making it?

A: We started with a bunch of sketches with pipe cleaners, then when we’d lined up a factory we brought in a designer to work with (Samuel Wilkinson) and then went out to research what was possible on the production lines in China. After lots of iterations and trial and error, we arrived at a viable industrial product.

Q: What is Plumen’s best-selling product?

A: It is still the classic 001 design although the other models are building all the time.

The 003 is like a best kept secret, but because it produces such a magical light, there’s a growing fan base around it’s golden glow.

Q: Are Plumen bulbs designed to be used without a shade?

A: Yes they are. It’s obviously part of the efficiency drive. The less you shade, the more efficient. But if you don’t shade then the bulbs has to be beautiful and interesting.

Now that the 001 design is LED it also dims which makes it work even better naked.

We still love seeing our bulbs together with shades and accessories though. Even if a glass shades is clear it adds a lot to the look (but doesn’t cost efficiency). We’re Pinterest obsessives, always looking for brands and designs to buddy up with.

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

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The home of the

HOUSE PROUD

New Roman Blinds Collection Our exciting new collection of Roman Blinds opens up a whole world of style choices. All backed by a service we’re pleased to say is second to none; with the highest quality products expertly made to measure and fitted beautifully.

So whatever the design, window or room we will do your house proud.

luxaflex.co.uk

Luxaflex® Showrooms: Curtain Call, Richmond: 0208 332 6250 • Abbott’s, Roman Road: 0208 980 4158

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INTERIORS • STYLE

LIGHT UP PASSIONPROJECT Wild Fig & Grape Luxury Candle, £45 heating-and-plumbing.com

Stock up on candles for atmosphere and cosiness this month Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

CHASE AND WONDER The Botanist Candle, £32 chaseandwonder.com

IZOLA Sandalwood 8oz Scented Candle - Green Coloured Glass,£29 hurnandhurn.com

MALIN +GOETZ Cannabis Candle, £40 insidestoreldn.com

HOPE & FRENCHIE Refillable California candle, £35 hopeandfrenchie.com

SKANDINAVISK HYGGE mini scented candle, £16 printerandtailor.com

SUSANNE KAUFMANN Gift box candles, €66 susannekaufmann.com

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

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BIRDS OF A F E AT H E R DEIRDRE DYSON

An artist first and foremost, Dyson knows how to create a statement under your feet. This abstract, plumage-inspired rug is bold and beautiful. Its classic contemporary design is grown-up yet playful, and while it's made for the floor it wouldn't look out of place on the wall. deirdredyson.com

UNDER FO OT R U G S S O N I C E YO U ’ L L WA N T T H E M O N YO U R WA L L . H E R E ' S O U R P I C K O F T H E B E S T.

LAYER WITH LINES LIGNE ROSET

These stylish rugs integrate perfectly into your space.

Pure lines, made of wool and tufted by hand, choose from hundreds of colours. We love this navy 'Quadric' version. ligne-roset.com

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INTERIORS • RUGS

GAN ABOUT TOWN GAN

Made from 100% hand-knotted wool, this Spanish-designed, Indian-made rug will stand the test of time. Its subtle blue grey colours provide an ideal backdrop for statement chairs and tables.

‘Hidraulic’, from £1997. woven.co.uk

SEVENTIES VIBE OLLI ELLA

For an explosion of colour we're going for this bright, patterned Casablanca rug. It's playful and fun, made of easy-to-clean New Zealand wool. You can order it in variety of sizes.From £345 olliella.com

COOL AND COLOURUL MADE

This geometric rug by Made is a winner. Though the design is busy, the muted mustard, blue and dusky pink tones mean the pattern can do all the talking. Made with durability in mind, it's super soft and hard wearing - ideal for families. made.com

SUPER SOFT COX & COX

Treat your feet with this super soft cotton rug in a sumptous cream colour, ready to complement any interior style.

It has tufted geometric diamond pattern and plaited tassles to each end. Ezra rug, £500 coxandcox.co.uk

WOO L WA L L BRINK AND CAMPMAN

A captivating rug. The quirky, abstract pattern is balanced out by the playful use of colour. Shown here as a wall-hanging, it is both multifunctional and beautitful.

Kashba Tipi, from £259 therugshopuk.co.uk

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

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My Style

INTERIORS • MOODBOARD

ELLA JONES, FOUNDER OF A NEW TRIBE BOUTIQUE anewtribe.co.uk

MY FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION...

PAUL SMITH AW18

I love to travel - my highlights have been Japan and a US road trip to California and Arizona, but Morocco is definitely my favourite holiday destination - I could never get bored of it. It’s so beautiful with so many interesting crafts and artefacts everywhere, lovely welcoming people, beautiful weather and culturally so different from the UK. I love the buzz of Marrakech but also the more remote areas outside Marrakech and in the Atlas Mountains.

MY FAVOURITE DESIGNER...

I have quite eclectic taste and so don’t have one particular favourite designer, but the designer that inspired me the most growing up was Paul Smith. He’s from the same area of Nottingham as I am and I always looked up to what he has achieved and have loved his eclectic taste and how he can take inspiration from so many different things all over the world and apply this to his design in an original way.

M Y ST Y L E ICON...

I love Talitha Getty’s style - in particular the images of her taken in Morocco in the 1960s – her style still looks totally relevant today

MY FAVOURITE PIECE FROM THE CURRENT STOCK...

I’m obsessed with Azilal Rug 291 - I love the way that its a slight different take on the classic design and the colour combinations in this are this are rare in Moroccan rugs. I also love the Kana x A New Tribe collaboration (above) as its completely original and one of a kind - the irregular bold pattern on the glaze design combined with the sculptural shapes couldn’t fit in more with the A New Tribe aesthetic.

MY FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART...

Just about everything by Brancusi - I love objects and so the sculptures really appeal to me, combined with the tribal and almost primitive references in lots of his pieces.

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

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CHANGING ROOMS 92

The annual Don’t Move, Improve!

Awards showcase London’s best extensions.

Here are some highlights from the shortlist Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

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INTERIORS โ ข EXTENSIONS

ALGIERS ROAD LEWISHAM, SE13 GRUFF LIMITED

A single-storey residential extension in South London defined by a pair of chimneys and materially bound by a continuous concrete ribbon puncturing the building envelope.

DUSHEIKO HOUSE HACKNEY, N16 NEIL DUSHEIKO ARCHITECTS

This remodeled terrace house, with double volume interconnected spaces between floors, celebrates natural light and materials and features an outdoor shower open to the sky.

Dusheiko House was designed by the architect for himself and his family. There were a number of key problems the existing layout presented that needed to be solved, including poor lighting and no connection to the garden.

Light and circulation issues were improved by moving the staircase to the opposite wall - connecting the living room space directly to the kitchen. By removing part of the rear faรงade, a large sloped double storey skylight brings light into the two levels. There is emphasis on using durable natural materials like wood and stone throughout and there are four opening vents, allowing passive cooling during the summer months.

Two main concepts accentuated the strong relationship between the extension and garden; the rear glazing is composed of sliding panels with minimal frames offering seamless long views through the house to the garden beyond, and the pair of chimneys are materially melded by a continuous concrete ribbon threading across the envelope.

The extension draws the outdoors in, and the indoors out via the delicate material transition from the board-marked chimney externally to smooth and polished inside along the surface of the ribbon. The concrete elements define the sung area and contrast with the natural tones and timber finishes elsewhere, further emphasised by the step in floor level. Externally, the concrete fireplace and slab encourages gathering on the decking long into summer nights. Externally, the charred cladding seamlessly folds into the pergola and decking, creating a bold and distinctive profile and accentuating the concrete chimney puncturing through the silhouette.

LAURISTON ROAD BREAKOUT EXTENSION CROUCH END HARINGEY, N8 KNOTT ARCHITECTS

A small one-bedroom flat breaks out into a small yard, resulting in an extra bedroom.

This small one-bedroom flat in the Crouch End Conservation Area became too small on the arrival of the owners' first child. The small rear/side garden, with its skewed boundary fences, offered the only room for expansion. Two extensions break out from the existing bedroom, responding to, and limited by, the angles of the fences. In a potentially darker corner the roofw breaks out by being prized open, and folded back, allowing the daylight in.

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FOLDED WEDGE TOWNHOUSE FOREST HILL, SE23 RUSSELL HUNT ARCHITECTS

Wedge-shaped extension to 1970s townhouse creating a tall, lightfilled, semi-underground space with a folded roof expressed internally in exposed timber This end-of-terrace town house has been extended and reorganised to maximise space and light for family life. The site featured a narrow, wedge-shaped piece of land to the side of the house. In order to minimise impact on neighbouring houses, the built form had to be kept to a minimum from the outside with no overlooking windows. The varying roof pitches allow the internal volume to be maximised at the rear, appearing modestly scaled to the front and side. A new structural opening in the side of the house creates a full width kitchen, dining and living space at the rear.

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INTERIORS • EXTENSIONS

MONTAGUE COURT HACKNEY, E8 IF_DO

Rethinking underused spaces in an apartment in a former synagogue, responding creatively to significant site constraints whilst celebrating and enhancing a distinctive piece of local architecture

BROCKLEY HOUSE LEWISHAM, SE4

Renovating, thermally upgrading and extending an apartment situated within a former synagogue, this project creates a much needed second bedroom/study and enhances the eccentricities of the existing building. Shaped by the highly unusual geometry of the site, the new extension is slotted directly between the existing brick walls of the synagogue and site boundary, and is formed by seven exposed structural timber posts that support a triangulated roof.

Large triangular rooflights bring light into the space, transforming a dark and unused courtyard into a new study, celebrating connection to garden and sky, and retaining the sun-filled southfacing garden.

SAM ARCHITECTS & LUNAR ARCHITECTS

Black charred larch-clad side and rear extension to a victorian house located in Brockley creating open plan living with modern urban garden.

The large single storey rear and side infill extension creates a collection of spaces for modern life with an emphasis on open plan living with fluid circulation and interconnected spaces. The extension acts as a transitional space between the existing formal living and the outdoor space.

The pitched volume minimises the impact on neighbouring properties while maximising the height of the dining space.

Black charred larch cladding distinguishes the addition from its Victorian context.

The extension acts as a transitional space between the existing formal living and the outdoor space

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

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LAURISTON ROAD HACKNEY, E9 GUNDRY + DUCKER

A part-two storey rear extension to update a maisonette, with carefully considered materials.

Replacing a set of dilapidated extensions, this two-storey extension to a ground floor and basement maisonette within a Victorian terraced house has created a bright new living space and upstairs studio room with L-shaped corner window for the photographer client. The unlit space at the centre of the plan is used as a bathroom and utility room. The extension has a rich but simple materiality, built in the form of an exposed concrete table with different sized and shaped ‘legs’ placed against the rear of the original house. The spaces between the legs are filled with windows, brick or painted plaster.

The extension has a rich but simple materiality

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LOFT LIBRARY WALTHAM FOREST, E17 ARBOREAL ARCHITECTURE

Innovative conversion of a trussed rafter roof, creating a CNC-cut plywood-arched libary Working with a tight budget within a two-storey 1980s end-ofterrace house, this design works within the fabric of the existing building rather than creating a new loft structure or extension.

Utilising the awkward spaces within the single pitch, trussed rafter roof, the design replaces the diagonal truss members with plywood arches to form the Loft Library – providing a stair access, four new windows, and a library space formed entirely of 18mm spruce plywood, including a small bench, shelves between arches and a study space at the end. To create the curved arches, detailed measurements were taken of the existing space, with templates then drawn in CAD and plywood elements cut precisely to size.

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INTERIORS • EXTENSIONS

REUSE FLAT HACKNEY, E9 ARBOREAL ARCHITECTURE

Aiming for zero waste in construction through innovative reuse of materials today and design for the disassembly and reuse of those materials in the future.

Renovating the kitchen, dining and living areas of a ground floor flat, this project adds a new interior lining, comprising wall panelling and cabinetry made from reclaimed wood – which contains a membrane to increase airtightness – and cotton insulation to improve thermal performance. The lining is fixed directly onto the existing walls and assembled with reusable materials and fasteners (no glue) so that it can be disassembled and reused in the future. Broken bricks, concrete and wood collected during the project were reused in a gabion garden wall, with the wood drilled for insect habitat. Internally, the old wood floor was reused as the new wall lining, and old windows became a glazed partition in the office.

TILE HOUSE HACKNEY, E5 BEASLEY DICKSON ARCHITECTS

Inspired by the owners’ passion for the decorative arts, this Edwardian family home features a rear extension covered in glazed blue tiles.

Faced with a significant level change from the front of the house to the back, the clients’ brief was for a home organised around a central kitchen space, which reflected their passion for the decorative arts. Excavation of the existing basement provided a new bedroom and ensuite to the front, and a utility to the rear connecting directly to the kitchen.

The kitchen pivots between basement and raised ground floor, with large glazed openings and vibrant colours that draw the eye through. Externally, the rear extension features a lightweight sloping glass roof and faceted bespoke glazed tile facade.

Old windows became a glazed partition in the office

newlondonarchitecture.org

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Monica Galetti, chef

C R E A T I N G

B E A U T I F U L

K I T C H E N S

S I N C E

1 9 8 1

Call 020 7486 1248 to make an appointment at your nearest showroom 120 Wigmore Street, London W1U 3RU 509 Uxbridge Road, Pinner HA5 4JS 77-79 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield HP9 1LX

www.halcyon-interiors.co.uk | info@halcyon-interiors.co.uk HALCYON.indd 1

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INTERIORS • GLAZING

GLASS HOUSES

M

etal-framed windows are on-trend at the moment, and can make a real design statement, both inside and outside your home.

They also have a much longer life-span than uPVC windows, meaning that they’re a real investment. But not all steel windows are the same. Fabco Sanctuary, based in West Sussex, has one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the industry, enabling it to provide some of the highest thermally performing products.

All Fabco Sanctuary windows and doors are supplied with toughened glass, filled with Krypton gas, which gives more insulation than the standard double glazing. They also feature laser-cut hinges, which are machined through the frame rather than added on afterwards, for a more secure hinge. This attention to detail at every stage of the process ensures that your bespoke windows and doors are both durable and attractive.

A whole house renovation took place in Clapham Common, in 2017. The home owner was keen to apply an industrial style

Steel windows are a real investment.

They are both durable and attractive

Steel-framed glazing from Fabco Sanctuary offers unparalleled performance values throughout the property and chose to install Fabco’s bespoke steel doors throughout the ground floor of their home. With the help of their architect they looked at several steel window companies, but Fabco stood out straight away. Their pricing was competitive, lead times were workable, and the builders chosen to complete the renovation had worked with them in the past.

All of Fabco’s products are engineered on specialised CNC machinery. This ensures higher degrees of accuracy and allows them to work within much smaller tolerances.

The benefits are numerous. Fabco frames perform better, last longer and have shorter manufacturing times.

FA B C O 01903 718808 enquiries@fabcosanctuary.com fabcosanctuary.com

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

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GORDON’S SCHOOL SIXTH FORM BOARDING IN SURREY

Ranked in the top 1% of all schools in England and Wales over the past 3 years at A Level.

Sixth Form Residential Boarding places available from £5,378 per term.

www.gordons.school GORDON'S.indd 1

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INTERIORS • ICONS

T H E L E G AC Y T H E P H 5 L A M P: 6 0 Y E A R S O F LO U I S P O U L S E N ’S I C O N I C P H 5 S H A D E Wo r d s PENDLE HARTE

P Henningsen’s original design was inspired by his mother’s wish for flattering, soft light

oul Henningsen, a lighting design pioneer whose work shaped the Louis Poulsen story, designed his celebrated PH5 pendant in 1958. Six decades later, the PH 5 remains the bestselling design in the company’s portfolio.

Poul Henningsen developed the PH 5 in 1958 as a follow-up to his celebrated three-shade system, which was launched in 1926 and put Louis Poulsen on the map as the leading manufacturer of innovative lighting. Henningsen’s original design had been inspired by his mother’s wish for more flattering, softer light in an era when homes were still transitioning to electric lighting and incandescent bulbs, whose effects were more utilitarian than aesthetic.

Later, when lightbulbs were standardised (a design shift that displeased Henningsen), he responded with the fiveshade system to gain complete control over

the new type of light, quipping that, “With the new PH5, I surrender to the light bulb manufacturers.” The surrender proved to be more of a statement of Henningsen’s genius, and to this day, the PH 5’s fiveshade system continues to infuse spaces with 100% glare-free, even illumination, with the majority of light shining downwards at the space it illuminates rather than into people’s eyes. The pendant produces the ideal combination of downward and lateral light to also gently illuminate the fi xture itself. Interior antiglare rings and reflectors ensure a warm light tone that complements the daily rhythm of natural light.

Founded in 1874, the Danish lighting manufacturer Louis Poulsen creates products that encompass the duality of design and light. Every detail in the design has a purpose. In close partnership with designers and architects like Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, Verner Panton, Øivind Slaatto, Alfred Homann, Oki Sato and Gam- Fratesi, Louis Poulsen has established itself as one of the key suppliers of architectural and decorative lighting. louispoulsen.com

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

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Grate Expectations - A Family run business established for over 30 years The UK’s leading suppliers of luxury gas fireplaces, wood burning stoves and bioethanol fires manufactured by DRU, Spartherm, Ebios, Dik Guerts, Gazco, Stovax and many more.

1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, SW20 8JT 020 8540 8387 | sales@grateexpectations.com | grateexpectations.com

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INTERIORS • PETS

A DOG’S LIFE As we continue to humanise our animals, furniture for pets is becoming more and more stylish.

Absolutely investigates Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

I

n the 2011 census, an intriguing 16 per cent of pet owners reportedly counted their animals on their forms, while as many as 90 per cent of us see our pets as part of the family. A sizeable minority will even admit to loving their pet more than their partner. And in the world of retail, thriving fashion, beauty and food industries sell cashmere jumpers for cockapoos and collections of cat couture. There is beer and even prosecco for dogs, gluten-free pet food, CBD for pets and an extensive world of therapists and whisperers to heal their woes. So it’s inevitable that the design industry is turning its focus towards what used to be simply the dog basket but is now a whole range of pet ‘furniture’.

Whether dogs should sit on sofas might be controversial but Made’s stylishly formed and upholstered new dog sofas are a cut above the traditional dog bed.

Or perhaps they’re designed to be in

addition to a dog bed – maybe the dog sofa is designed for lounging and watching television in much the same way as a regular sofa. Maybe the whole point is to get your dog off your sofa. Either way, it’s important for a dog to be able to feel comfortable in front of Netflix, and even more important for the experience to be compatible, design-wise, with the rest of an interior. In this vein the new collection at Made includes stylish new feeding bowls in marble and copper too. Cats are catered to with structures that enable climbing as well as cosiness, while remaining true to Made’s pared back and stylish aesthetic. Ikea offers a cat house on legs – but only in Japan and the US. Elsewhere, the pet furniture market includes memory foam mattresses, Chesterfield-style diminutive sofas and even tiny bunk beds for miniature dogs. Mattress companies Casper and Otty make special dog mattresses that come in three sizes – Casper’s is eligible for the 100 night trial that the company offers for humans too.

Pet comfort is here to stay.

ALL IMAGES: MADE.COM

It’s important for a dog to feel comfortable in front of Netflix A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

Open Days

Our state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre

November 1st/7th (9.30am/ 9.30am) November 15th/21st (7.00pm/ 9.30am) November 29th (9.30am)

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

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@kewhouseschool

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KIDS & EDUCATION

TOP OF THE CLASS ST JOHN’S WOOD PRE-PREP St John's Wood Pre-Prep is a small, happy school for girls and boys aged three to seven, specialising in preparing children for the 7+ examinations for London's topranking independent schools. sjwpre-prep.org.uk

Small Talk 107 · New Year books 108 · Education 111 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INDEPENDENT DAY SCHO OL FOR GIRL S AGED 4 TO 18 — Queen’s Gate School offers girls a warm, supportive environment where individuality is nurtured, academic standards are high and a broad-based curriculum ensures a well-rounded education.

A range of scholarships and means-tested bursaries are available to assist girls to join us in the Junior and Senior School, and parents are welcome to visit us throughout the year.

Details are available on our website.

For a prospectus or to visit the School, please contact the Registrar, Mrs Ceili Roberts-Beresford: — registrar@queensgate.org.uk · 020 7594 4982 queensgate.org.uk/admissions

Queen’s Gate School, 131–133 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5LE

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JANIE RICHARDSON SCHOOL SEARCH & PLACEMENT

Securing the best start for your child Bespoke and informed advice to navigate the complex British Education System. Janie Richardson School Search provides families with experienced insight and tailored support, ensuring the best educational choices are made at the right time for your child.

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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES B RA N D F O CU S

SLEEP TALK CY B E RJA M M I E S

Mother-daugher or father-son twinning is not going away, though arguably the only acceptable time of dressing like your tot is bedtime. Cyberjammies' vast range includes stylish prints and comfortable shapes in all sizes and styles. cyberjammies.co.uk

SMALL TALK Twinning in PJs, real princess fashion and enlightening reads

SHAPE UP COS KIDS

New from Cos kids is a collection of voluminous pieces in cotton poplin.

This cute burgundy skirt and top set is stylish and wearable, while accessories including bags and raincoats are practical and covetable. cosstores.com EDITOR’S PICK

MOUSE STYLE

MARIE CHANTAL

H

oused in a dreamy pastel-pink building (and perfectly at home among its neighbours, including Christian Louboutin, Eres and Caroline Bucci), is the luxurious new Marie-Chantal boutique on west London’s Motcomb Street.

It’s a space befitting of its owner, the Crown Princess of Greece, who founded her eponymous childrenswear line in 2001. Designed by Fran Hickman (the creative talent behind Moda Operandi’s showroom, Goop’s recent pop-up and the Emilia Wickstead store on Sloane Street), you’ll find soft blush cabinets, gilded furniture and the sweetest outfits hanging from the walls, illuminated by the soft glow of low-hanging lampshades.

The launch comes at a busy time for mother-of-five Marie-Chantal, who has recently started a book project and redesigned the brand’s website and packaging. However, she always has time to spend in store, so make a visit and you might just find a princess ringing up your purchases at the till. mariechantal.co.uk

FEEL IT

M O L LY M O O N ’ S M I S S I O N

W H E N SWA D N E S S

By Duncan Beedie

C O M E S TO CA L L

Molly the moth lives in the back of an old wardrobe. She loves her home and her family but she yearns for adventure. By day she helps her mother look after the larvae, and by night she prepares for her space mission to the moon. £6.99;

By Eva Eland

templar.co.uk

penguin.co.uk

When “Sadness” arrives, try not to be afraid – give it a name, and spend some time together. Maybe all it wants is to know that it’s welcome. This beautiful debut takes a poignant yet uplifting look at uncomfortable emotions. £11.99;

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

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KIDS & EDUCATION • BOOKS

2019 BOOKS Cosy up with some fantastic children’s reads for the New Year Wo r d s F LO R A T H O M A S

Two for joy O N E F O R S O R R OW

By Mr Gresty

A puzzled magpie called Sorrow sets off on a journey to find his lost ‘Joy’. This uplifting and original story is designed to help parents support children in understanding their own emotions, and of those around them. With an introduction by Jo Brand. £12 shop.mrgresty.com

One for keeps S E E I N G S TA R S

A to Zebra ANIMALPHABET

By Julia Donaldson

Each page of this exquisite pop-up book draws you further into a beautifully vibrant world of huge elephants, slithery snakes and growling tigers. It’s an interactive guessing game with eyecatching artwork and an exotic array of animals to marvel over. £14.99

By Sara Gillingham

This keepsake volume of visual reference and beauty is perfect for inquisitive young stargazers, mythology-lovers, or anyone with the curiosity to look up to the night sky. Each cluster of stars is featured alongside the story behind its naming and tips on how to find it. £17.95 phaidon.com

panmacmillan.com

Lost in magic S N OWG LO B E

S TO R M

By Amy Wilson

By Sam Usher

Clementine’s magic has been getting stronger, and harder to ignore. At school, she loses control and realises she can escape it no longer. So starts Clem’s journey of spellbinding snowglobe discovery. £6.99;

It’s blowing up a storm, and a boy and his grandad decide it’s the perfect weather for kite-flying. There’s just one problem – first they have to find the kite. Their search brings up lots of wonderful memories, but when they finally make it outside, the adventure really takes off. £4.99; templarco.co.uk

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Kite adventure

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GCSE • AS level • A level

Easter Revision Boost your A level and GCSE grades Targeted board and syllabus specific courses Exam orientated approach Past paper practice

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CROSSING THE

DIVIDE The Deputy Head of Gordon’s School on sending his own children boarding B y R O B PAV I S

A

s someone who has spent their entire working career in boarding education, I have lauded and advocated the benefits of boarding to hundreds, if not thousands of families over the years. But transition from boarding professional to boarding parent was not quite as straightforward.

Firstly, while I was always aware of the financial sacrifices that parents make in order for their children to attend a boarding school, having not previously experienced it for myself I was unprepared for what this actually meant. Having been through the last four years of sacrifice and compromise myself, my

respect and admiration for many of our boarding parents has risen exponentially. I now understand why parents want the very best outcomes for the investment they are making. Certainly any thoughts I might have had about replacing my 12-year-old car were quickly shelved and I found myself a good mechanic instead.

The second surprise I then had was the sense of detachment. Again, I have spent 25 years working with parents and their families, dealing with the tears at drop-off time – and I mean the parents’ tears rather than the child’s. As we well know, a child is very quickly distracted and will find a game of football or a Wii dance-off to immerse themselves in within five minutes of their parents driving out of the school

I have spent 25 years dealing with the tears at drop-off time - the parents’ not the child’s

EDUCATION • OPINION

gates. To be the parent whose eyes were still welling up 45 minutes later on the long, silent drive home after dropping-off was something of a shock – and it didn’t get any easier for a very long time. Again, my understanding of a parent’s sacrifice was heightened.

Finally, the bit I always knew and trusted. The enormous amount of fun and achievement that my children experienced from their time as boarders is something that I just can’t put a price on. The idea that they would be weekly boarders soon fell by the wayside as the weekly phone calls on Thursday evenings asking if they can “stay in boarding this weekend” meant that we resigned ourselves to them being full boarders very early on. That weekly phone call spoke volumes about how much they were enjoying their new independence and all the opportunities that were open to them.

Where are we now? Both of my children achieved their full academic potential (without me being the one to do the nagging – something that has been worth so much more than I ever imagined) and are now at their first choice universities.

More than that, they became the confident, independent, go-getting young people that I had always seen (and envied) in my Year 13s when bidding farewell to them at the end of every year. As for me, well the car is now 16 years old and with university education to pay for, the search is on for an even better mechanic.

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EDUCATION • FOCUS

DIFFERENT

STROKES The Headmaster of Parsons Green Prep School on moving to the Big Smoke B y TIM CANNELL

A

fter 12 years as head of a 3-to-13 years day and boarding school on the south coast, moving to London to Parsons Green Prep (a day school for 5 to 11 years) did not seem the most obvious move for someone to make. I was fascinated to see if the many apocryphal stories of London school life were true. Not least the intense pressure for places at 11+, an entry system that makes young children sit multiple exams some of which took place before schools returned in January, a long wait for results and so the process goes on.

I am afraid that it is true, while many of the schools outside London use a common 11+ and 13+ system this has not yet transferred to London. However, over

Were the apocryphal stories of London schools true? the last few months it does appear that a new approach may be taken, which should be applauded, although is still far from perfect. The approach put forward is for shorter tests, usually multiple choice and give the impression of moving back to an old style 11+ of years gone by. On the plus side, however, there is going to be greater emphasis on seeing the children take part in a wide variety of team and other challenges. I hope that these challenges will take note of the qualities and skills of all

the children and not just the ones that push themselves forward. It is a time to see their thinking skills in action, how they approach tasks, how they interact with others, their ability to keep going if they cannot find the solution straight away. In short a process that will hopefully move towards looking for the skills the children will need in an ever changing and complex world in which they will contribute. I hope that such a move and shift in emphasis will impact even more on the curriculum and how it is taught in the younger years. School should not be an entity in itself but be a place that prepares children for the future world in which they will live and be leaders in.

It seems a rite of passage for many children to have significant coaching outside of school, something I don’t advocate as children need to be children and we should not rob them of their childhood and the opportunity to build those precious memories that we take with us and shape us for the rest of our lives.

I do think that concentrating on the core subjects for 11+ allows for a much more innovative approach to learning through teaching of the humanities in a crosscurricular approach. Making important links across science, maths and engineering through a practical-based STEM programme, time to engage children in debate and understand that some questions do not have a single answer, encouraging critical and innovative thinking.

I was also pleasantly surprised at the quality of outdoor space we have here, which is enhanced further by the use of Hurlingham Park a very short walk away and swimming at Fulham pools. Children receive lots of exercise and learn a wide variety of sporting skills. All of which is supplemented by a personal development programme including residential trips from Year 3 upwards.

Overall, the quality of education despite the pressures of 11+ is broad, balanced and offers real depth. If as a sector we can streamline the entry process for senior schools further then I believe we are delivering the very best in education.

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

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THE HURLINGHAM CLUB, RANELAGH GARDENS, LONDON, SW6 3PR 020 7610 7526 | events@hurlinghamclub.org.uk | @hurlinghamvenue Hurlingham Events_210x297mm.indd 1

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TRAVEL

SUN,SEA & STYLE ZANZIBAR

Zuri Zanzibar is the first Design Hotel member on the Tanzanian archipelago and guarantees the most stylish of stays. Read our review on page 122.. zurizanzibar.com

UK Getaway 121 • Zanzibar 122 • Fun at the Fair in the Netherlands 126 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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THE EXPERTS IN TIMBER WINDOWS AND DOORS

RECHARGE REVITALISE REJUVENATE WITH OUR INTRAVITA IV INFUSIONS AND BOOSTERS The Clinic 43 Honor Oak Park SE23 1DZ www.drmayoni.co.uk t: 020 8699 9496

Established in 1994

01344 868 668 www.sashwindow.com

T

he most luxurious of five star hotels, Domaine De Verchant is an exceptionally renovated vineyard and estate dating back to the 16th century. With three swimming pools, an extensive spa, wine caves, 17 hectares of vineyards, elegant French gardens and two restaurants to cater to all tastes, this hotel actually does have it all.

THE ROOM

R

ooms range from very comfortable doubles in the main chateaux to luxurious suites with balconies and an outdoor hot tub, as well as a private cottage overlooking the vineyards. We stayed in a beautiful suite with exposed stone walls incorporated into stylish, contemporary interior design. The suite was vast yet intimate, complete with a supply of wine from the estate.

THE FOOD

L

a Plage brasserie has the feel of an exclusive Ibiza beach club, offering waterside dining in a relaxed and chic setting. Wisteria falls from the ceilings – the flowers matching the linen – and crisp white tablecloths shine in the sunshine. The menu is light and delicious, perfect for a post-swim snack.

More formal dining is in the

chateaux itself, with seasonal menus created by Damien Cousseau. We enjoyed slowly cooked squid with mussels and asparagus; gourmet creations are accompanied by wines from the vineyards overlooking the formal gardens.

T H E SPA

T

his 2000 sq foot spa is the epitome of tranquility. A large gym offers personal training and state-of-the-art equipment, boasting a Turkish bath, hot tub, three saunas, a large indoor pool as well as over 60 treatments and a relaxation room. It would be easy to lose many hours here. For me the highlight was the large infinity pool overlooking the vineyards with double beds strategically placed for reading, relaxing or just enjoying the sunshine.

WHAT TO DO

T

weekend

THE HOTEL

DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL • EUROPE

he Domaine de Verchant is a 10 minute drive to the charming town of Montpellier. Wander down the side roads and discover medieval monuments, beautiful churches and exceptional views.

A little further afield are the many beaches of the region, popular with locals and easily accessible by tram or car. Bikes are available for exploring the grounds at the chateaux if you can't tear yourself away from the haven.

DOMAINE DE VERCHANT MONTPELLIER

Elegance and luxury in this French retreat

By ALEXANDRA HUNTER

A stylish vineyard and estate dating back to the 16th century

DOMAINE DE VERCHANT 1 Boulevard Philippe Lamour, 34170 Castelnau-le-Lez, France domainedeverchant.com

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

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P A C K

1

I T I N

TRAVEL • ACCESSORIES 1

C A R RY O N MADE .COM

Made's stylish and practical range of canvas bags are designed for everyday use as well as travelling.

The Broadwick is made out of waxed cotton and features inner and outer pockets and a removable shoulder strap. £79

made.com

2

WHEELS UP AWAY

WELL-DESIGNED LUGGAGE IMPROVES THE EXPERIENCE OF TRAVELLING

2

Away's clever wheelie case might just be the end to all others. Inside the indestructible shell are two neat compartments with straps to compress your clothes, a hidden laundry bag and an assortment of travel plugs. Best of all, there's a removable portable charger stashed in a special compartment. It comes in a wide range of sizes from carry on to large. From £225; awaytravel.com

3

3

L U XU RY T R AV E L G LOB ETROT TER

A Globetrotter bag is the ultimate airport status symobol. AW18's collection includes the hand-made Toscana range in tan and navy, made from vulcanised fibreboard with leather belts and corners. There's a handy trolley case as well as a large suitcase and various other bags, from £1,260. globe-trotter.com

4

A QUIET LIFE SAMSONITE

4

5

Bothered by how much noise your wheelie case makes when rolling down the pavement for your 6am flight? The Cosmolite Spinner promises silent, smooth rolling wheels which make it a joy to pull along. It's also practical, tough and good-looking too. From £ 319 samsonite.com

5

T I N Y TOT S OLLI ELLA

The See-Ya kids' suitcase is lightweight yet sturdy, and the external strap is designed to accommodate the inevitable cuddly toy. £59 olliella.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Save 40% on Dubai Holidays

5 Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort This resort sits an enviable location on the longest stretch of private beach in Dubai.

It boasts a total of 15 restaurants & bars and a choice of 5 swimming pools (with adults-only sunbathing areas, as well as a separate shaded children’s pool). There’s plenty to do with the Watersports Centre, complimentary Kids Club, Heavenly Spa and tennis courts - as well as excursions to all of Dubai’s main attractions.

Discover all-new Club benefits including food served all day in the exclusive club lounge, complimentary house drinks between 12pm-8pm, dedicated check-in areas and more.

EXECUTIVE CLUB ROOM + CLUB BENEFITS 5 Nights Bed & Breakfast + Flights from

£999pp

Call 0208 329 2679 or book online letsgo2.com Prices are per person based on two people sharing. Available on various departures between 6 June - 15 July 2019.

Subject to availability. For full T&Cs visit letsgo2.com. Prices correct as of 11/12/2018.

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TRUSTED MERCHANT 2018

11/12/2018 15:27

D

esigned as an ode to Belfast, the Grand Central cuts an impressive figure and delivers all of the warmth and the welcoming spirit that the city is renowned for. Having originally opened on Royal Avenue in 1893, the hotel as it stands today - now on Bedford Street - is a contemporary reincarnation of its Victorian predecessor comprising 23 floors and 300 luxurious bedrooms and suites. The building itself is vast while the decor is glamorous with rich fabrics, royal hues and marble.

THE FOOD

C

onvivial and contemporary, The Grand Cafe is the hub of the hotel, perfect for a latte, a bistro bite or a glass of Sauvignon. The gastronomic gem of Grand Central is Seahorse Bar & Grill. The space itself has been finished to the utmost quality and the food is phenomenal. Art Deco nods and impressively high ceilings create a sense of drama as you dine on the likes of rabbit and chicken terrine, truffle risotto and beef wellington. The desserts are just as tantalising - Bakewell tart, salted caramel chocolate torte, lemon posset

- but for something especially decadent, the afternoon tea is a must. A selection of finger sandwiches, scones, ginger cake and decadent pastries is served from a gorgeous tea trolley, and the drinks menu is extensive.

The Observatory is the jewel in the hotel’s crown. Beautiful on the inside and with an unmatched cocktail menu, this is Ireland’s tallest bar and as such, offers spectacular views of Belfast and beyond.

THE LOCATION

L

ocated in the heart of the city, in the up-andcoming Linen Quarter,

weekend

THE HOTEL

DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY

Grand Central is primely placed for exploring the city’s many attractions. Don’t leave without getting lost in the charming cobbled streets of the Cathedral Quarter and discovering a fascinating aspect of the city's history at Titanic Belfast. St George’s Market is another must; this extensive food hall exhibits Belfast’s finest producers and suppliers and is made all the more enjoyable with a tour from Taste & Tour. Purveyors of all things delicious, Taste & Tour will take you on a brilliant fourhour expedition of the city’s finest foodie hotspots. Stretchy trousers required.

GRAND CENTRAL HOTEL B E L FA S T

Irish charm meets city chic

By H E L E N B R OW N

For more information on Belfast visit ireland.com and for more information on Taste & Tour visit tasteandtour.co.uk GRAND CENTRAL HOTEL BELFAST Rooms from £190 grandcentralhotelbelfast.com

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

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TRAVEL • WINTER SUN

Spice of

LIFE We head to Zanzibar in search of winter sun and some serious R&R at one of the spice island’s newest resorts Wo r d s H E L E N B R O W N

M

ost people head to Zanzibar for its pristine white sand, calm waters and sensational sunsets.

If that’s what you’re after, you won’t be disappointed. It would be fairly plausible to add ‘Zanzibar’ into the dictionary definition of paradise, so perfect is the scene. In true island life style, the pace is slow and stress is minimal. “Hakuna matata”, of Disney’s The Lion King fame is commonplace, iterated by everyone from the flight attendant to the taxi drivers. You’ll most definitely hear a song or two during your stay too, though not that song. Swahili is the native language and the locals love to welcome travellers with musical expressions from the island’s rich heritage and culture. Here, Africa meets Arabia meets the Indian Ocean in what’s got to be one of the world’s most fascinating cultural melting pots. There’s certainly much to be explored.

SPICE HERITAGE

Zanzibar has quite the history. In the 19th century it was an important port for two of the world’s most traded commodities: spices and slave, with spices being the island’s main export for the last thousand years. A spice tour will teach you everything there is to know about this precious commodity, from the picking to the shipping, before treating you to a feast of island culinary specialties.

You’ll no doubt be inspired by the experience and vow to take home your new knowledge and put it to use. You'll have numerous opportunities during your trip to restock your spice cabinet as traders are plentiful.

STONE TOWN

Stone Town is the island’s main city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Portuguese invasion and control of the Swahili coast in the late 16th century ended the golden age of the archipelago, although the Omani Arabs returned to power less than a century later. Today, many of the winding streets and high townhouses of old Stone Town remain unchanged and visitors can walk between the Sultan’s palace, the House of Wonders, the Portuguese fort and gardens, the merchants’ houses and the Turkish baths of the old city. Allow time to get lost in its alleyways and admire its ancient doorways: majestic, tall and A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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TRAVEL • WINTER SUN

Prepare to put your dancing skills to the test against the talents of the locals grand, they'll have you reaching for the camera in no time. While you're there, it's worth getting a snap of Mercury House, the once-family home of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury. His father worked for the British colonial service and the family lived in various locations in Stone Town, including this house which stands as a sight of pilgrimage for Mercury devotees.

BEACHE S

You’ll find some of the world’s best beaches on Zanzibar’s coastline but sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on. Up north, swimming conditions are more favourable as they are less affected by the tides; smooth beaches and white sand make for dreamy days in the sun. Top spots are the northern beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, and if your visit falls on the full moon, you’ll get the chance to party on the beach till the small hours. Don’t worry, this is far from Thailand’s party on Koh Phangan. Frequented by islanders and with a soundtrack of local African beats, prepare to put your dancing skills to the test against the talents of the locals.

DE SIGN DE STINATION

Kendwa has become something of a resort destination in recent years, thanks to its stretches of white sands and the archipelago’s year-round sun, but none has a beach to beat Zuri Zanzibar’s, the newest hotel on the block and the first Design Hotel member on the Tanzanian archipelago. Sustainability is at the heart of this newly finished, beach-side property comprising 55 stylish villas and bungalows which have been clustered into mini villages named after the spices that give Zanzibar its spice island moniker. A commanding and seemingly endless staircase stretching up from the beach to the reception area works as an axis around which the rest of the resort is staggered. With everything set on a west-facing slope, guests are afforded

direct sea views at all times, whether dining in one of Zuri’s three restaurants or enjoying a morning meditation on the yoga deck.

For the interiors, Prague’s Jestico + Whiles studio have combined modern design with traditional African and Asian pieces so that the finish is both ecologically and socially sensitive. Expect to find natural materials and traditional craftsmanship throughout, from thatched roofs and wooden beams to locally-curated furniture and East African artwork. Finished with hammocks, private sun decks and outdoor showers, it doesn’t get more zen than this. Unless, that is, you take yourself to the spa which comprises three massage rooms and a salon offering a wide range of treatments, from manicures to hairdressing.

The final activity to be ticked off on the itinerary is snorkelling. Zuri’s WIMBI Water Sports Centre offers all the rental equipment you’ll need and the experienced instructors are more than happy to take you out on an expedition around nearby Tumbatu Island.

The centre can also organise a brilliant sunset cruise on a traditional Dhow boat - a must - fishing trips and a Ngalawa boat trip.

With its tropical tableaux, billowing sailing boats, smiling locals and fascinating culture, Zanzibar is a slice of paradise that must be explored.

ZURI ZANZIBAR Rooms at Zuri Zanzibar start from £349 per room, per night for a garden bungalow on a half board basis.

For further information, please visit zurizanzibar.com.

• Stay 7 nights at Zuri Zanzibar from £1,859 per person with Turquoise Holidays. This includes accommodation in a Garden Bungalow on a half board basis, international flights and transfers.

For more information visit turquoiseholidays.co.uk • Qatar Airways operates a daily flight to Zanzibar, with round-trip tickets starting from £670 for Economy Class. qatarairways.com

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T TRAIN Mystery

The Netherlands’ largest theme park may be little-known in the UK but it’s certainly worth considering. Absolutely visits Efteling Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

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here’s something magical about waking up somewhere when you’ve arrived in the dark and have no idea what you’ll see from the window.

Especially when you’re staying in a theme park.

We open the curtains in our third floor hotel room with no idea of what to expect – and we’re rewarded with a dreamy rustic scene: small wooden huts clustered around a clearly man-made lake.

It’s very controlled and clean and slightly surreal. We love it immediately.

An eager queue is already forming for the shuttle bus: hotel guests are offered VIP early entry tickets to the rides, which means breakfast at 7.15am. We’ve missed that slot, but, as it turns out, anyone who has survived Legoland has nothing to fear from Efteling’s queues.

Europe’s fourth-largest theme park remains virtually unknown in the UK but in the Netherlands a visit to Efteling is

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TRAVEL • FAMILY

a rite of passage. Conceived in the 1950s by children’s illustrator Anton Pieck, it’s a theme park with heritage and a strong fairytale tradition that sets it apart from the heavy commercialism of some of these places. When we arrive it’s teeming with Dutch grandparents, parents and children, the oldies reliving their childhood memories with their grandchildren. But that’s not to say that Efteling’s appeal is historical. The original Fairytale Forest remains, but there are enough new daredevil rides to appeal to the seasoned theme park enthusiast (and frighten their grandma).

The Fairytale Forest is where we start and it is magical – not just if you’re five.

This is a large woodland inhabited by animated installations retelling lots of classic fairytales, and our daughters – aged 12 and nine – are as entranced by it as they would have been when they were five. Some of it is dark and genuinely scary, like when the Little Match Girl dies and becomes a hologram, and when the wolf wearing grandmother’s nightie and lying in her bed turns out to be breathing heavily, and when a convincing mist envelops the pathways. There are talking trees and fairytale touches at every turn; memorable exhibits include Rapunzel letting down her hair, Rumpelstiltskin chanting eerily and the hilarious sedan chair nudity of the Emperor’s New Clothes. It seems that we’ve missed a few of the classic tales: The Gardener and the Fakir leaves us baffled (it turns out to have been specially written for Efteling) and we had never encountered The Chinese Nightingale before (its Dutch narrative left us none the wiser).

But Efteling isn’t exclusively about cute.

We queue for probably 40 minutes to try what is reputedly the park’s scariest ride, the Baron, described as a ‘dive coaster’ and with a minimum height requirement of 1.4m. From the queue we can hear people screaming – if we had seen the vertical drop they were screaming about, we’d probably have abandoned the queue. This ride is pure terror – or pure joy for people who like that kind of thing. Happily, we weren’t in the front row, and even more happily, it was over very quickly. Less extreme rides include the Bobsleigh and the Vliegender

The Fairytale Forest is magical – and not just if you’re five Hollander, which are rollercoasters of a less terrifying variety, and several narrative-based rides include the ‘dark ride’ Symbolica, which is a sort of interactive magical dreamscape, and the Villa Volta, a cursed house that spins around you – or maybe you spin around it – leaving you dizzy and confused.

What we like most about Efteling is its easy infrastructure and size. It’s small enough for one day to be enough – we don’t manage absolutely everything, but we do most things – and spacious enough not to feel crowded, and the queueing isn’t overwhelming. In egalitarian northern European style, there are no fast track passes for sale, but there are shorter

queues for people on their own (filling up lone seats) and the Python even allows you to book a time slot via the Efteling app at no charge. There aren’t as many souvenir shops as there could be and the problem of rubbish is solved ingeniously. Ask a Dutch person for their childhood memories of Efteling and they’ll probably mention the bins: these are huge grinning faces with wide open mouths. When you throw your crisp packet in, a friendly voice thanks you.

This inspires children of all ages to run around voluntarily litter picking – an instant solution. Except of course there aren’t crisp packets everywhere, not just because the Dutch are tidy and have a sense of civic duty, but because there’s a notable lack of junk food at Efteling. Sure, there are sweet shops, but there are also fruit stalls, and the restaurants offer relatively healthy fare.

At the end of the day we take our seats for Caro, a new circus performance with a touching narrative and lots of acrobatic spectacle that turns out to be – we think better than Cirque du Soleil, before heading back to our family room at the surreal yet comfortable Loonsche Land hotel, where the children retreat to their bunkbeds gratefully. Efteling, we love you.

EFTELING A two-night stay at Hotel Loonsche Land in February 2019 starts at €605 for a family of four, including breakfast and three days’ unlimited access to Efteling.

• Efteling is 100km from Amsterdam/90km from Antwerp and easily accessible via train or car. efteling.com

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Images by Emily Costello

The Laindons has six luxurious rooms to choose from, five have beautiful high ceilings, filled with light, plus the Attic Room, which is our cosy, atmospheric rooftop retreat.

Welcome to The Laindons Guest House Located in the heart of Hastings Old Town, The Laindons is a gorgeous and impressive Georgian listed building that began life as a coach house in the nineteenth century and has continued the tradition of providing comfort, and unexpected luxury to all who visit.

Room rates range from: £110.00 - £130.00, Monday to Thursday £120.00 - £155.00, Friday to Sunday

BOOK NOW

For bookings and more information call: 01424 437710 or email: info@thelaindons.com The Laindons, 23 High Street, Hastings, TN34 3EY

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TRAVEL • DIVING

THE

DEEP

DIVE

4. ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH Another top-end choice, One&Only Reethi Rah does have a house reef, accessible by a short canoe ride, but the best diving spots are a short boat ride away. The hotel boasts the Maldives’ only PADI National Geographic Dive Centre, and one of the region’s best sharkspotting sites is nearby. There’s the chance to take part in more advanced diving situations, with strong currents, drift, wreck and night diving all on offer – as well as more relaxed sites for less experienced divers. The resort also runs a Reef Project, encouraging visitors to transplant pieces of coral onto frames, before planting it in new location on the reef.

Long after you’ve left the island, you can log onto the website where the resident marine biologist periodically uploads photographs, allowing you to keep an eye on its progress.

Award-winning travel specialist, Let’s Go 2 shares the must-visit Maldivian destinations for exceptional diving

I

f you ask anyone who’s planning a trip to the Maldives why they’ve chosen to visit that particular part of the world, one of the most common reasons is for the unbeatable snorkelling and diving experiences. The Maldives are renowned for excellent visibility, crystal-clear waters and pleasant, warm temperatures – making underwater sightseeing top of the to-do list.

With so many different island resorts to choose from, deciding exactly where to stay can be difficult. Here are our recommendations for the best places to stay in the Maldives offering excellent snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities:

1. CONSTANCE MOOFUSHI

This resort is home to one of the best house reefs for snorkelling in the Maldives. There’s also access to some great nearby diving spots, including Shark Point – where tonnes of sharks (up to 6ft long) gather above a steep drop-off point. Dive scooters are on offer to help you reach patches of reef that would otherwise be a challenge to access, and instructors are on hand to give lessons if you’ve never used one before.

2. OBLU BY ATMOSPHERE AT HELENGELI Oblu is renowned for its colourful house reef, located just metres away from the island. It’s another great option for snorkelling as well as diving – you’ll see all manner of fish, octopus, eels, turtles, sharks and stingrays close to the surface. There are two house reefs, one either side of the harbour. Nearby there are some good opportunities for drift diving – an exhilarating experience, which feels like flying underwater as you’re carried along by the current. It’s also one of the more affordable Maldives resorts to visit (relatively speaking), with a great value all-inclusive package.

5. PARK HYATT MALDIVES HADAHAA The house reef at this resort is very memorable; they’ve done a great job of preserving it (it’s very healthy – teeming with life). You’ll spot many different types of marine creatures – including fish, shark, turtles and even octopus. There’s no need to take a boat; great snorkelling is accessible by jumping right in from the end of the jetty. Ask anyone who’s been to this resort, and they’ll almost inevitably start raving about the spectacular underwater scenery. The snorkelling is so varied at the house reef there’s almost no need to venture further afield, but experienced divers may wish to take a boat trip to some nearby sites. There’s even the chance to see whale sharks – if you visit at the right time of year.

3. JUMEIRAH VITTAVELI Aside from being one of the most luxurious island resorts in the region, the main attraction here is the house reef – one of the best of any resort in the South Male Atoll. Stretching out 500m on either side of the island, you don’t have to swim out far before you’re greeted with an abundance of captivating coral and shoals of reef fish. For more experienced divers, there are five other decent dive spots nearby. The resort has been working hard to take care of their house reef, bringing in an inhouse Marine Biologist as well as independent organisations to nurture and protect the coral, ensuring it’ll stay beautiful for years to come.

LETS GO 2 For more information on any of these resorts, visit letsgo2.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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St John’s Wood Pre-Prep School wish to congratulate Year 2 on their outstanding 2018 entrance test results THE CLASS OF 11 CHILDREN WILL BE JOINING THE FOLLOWING SCHOOLS IN SEPTEMBER:

2 Girls to City of London School for Girls 1 Girl to South Hampstead High School 2 Boys to St Paul’s Juniors 4 Boys to University College School 2 Boys to Westminster Under School

WELL DONE

EVERYONE!

ST. JOHN’S WOOD

PRE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL info@sjwpre-prep.org.uk

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020 7722 7149

www.sjwpre-prep.org.uk

28/09/2018 14:53

PROPERTY Living the Dream

NOEL ROAD N1

ÂŁ2,350,000

140

Property Feature: YOUhome

lovely end-of-terrace, three-bedroom, three-bathroom, freehold house benefitting from a spacious garden and garage, with peaceful views. The property is located in central Islington and is only a short walk from Angel and all the area’s great amenities. Noel Road is also conveniently situated close to an array of transport facilities including Angel station and Essex Road and Old Street Rail.

161

A

YOUhome Notting Hill Gate 020 7908 9280 www.youhome.co.uk

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

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The house with modern elegance.

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Chepstow Villas, Notting Hill W11 • An exceptional beautifully designed home • Offering a sophisticated blend of open spaces and light throughout • Approximately (286 sq m) 3,080 sq ft Chepstow Villas is a glorious street of stucco fronted Victorian villas and terraced houses. Close by is the ever vibrant Westbourne Grove and excellent transport links.

Our Notting Hill expert, Caroline Foord, looks forward to helping you. caroline.foord@knightfrank.com 020 8115 3620 07831 576613

knightfrank.co.uk

Guide price £7,850,000

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Freehold

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The house with the playroom.

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Abingdon Villas, Kensington W8 • A stucco-fronted Victorian end-of-terrace house • Private parking for up to three cars • Approximately 4,200 sq ft

Our Kensington expert, Peter Bevan, looks forward to helping you. peter.bevan@knightfrank.com 020 8115 3277 07770 017076

Abingdon Villas is situated south of Kensington High Street in a popular residential area of Kensington. Kensington High Street offers a wide variety of shops and transport connections.

knightfrank.co.uk

Guide price £7,250,000

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Freehold

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Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Ringmer Avenue SW6 A bright five bedroom family home set on a quiet, tree-lined street. EPC: E. Guide price £2,350,000

Fulham Road SW6

Edenhurst Avenue SW6 A beautiful family home offering superb lateral living space over four floors and a 34 ft west-facing garden. Approximately 3,770 sq ft.

Guide price £4,000,000

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2

5

A four bedroom maisonette, set over three levels with a 50 ft garden. EPC: D. Guide price £1,350,000

Riverton Apartments SW6 A modern two bedroom second floor flat, located overlooking gardens behind. EPC: B. Guide price £650,000

Sulivan Road SW6 Stunning five bedroom mid terrace townhouse, set over four floors. EPC: B. Guide price £2,250,000

Maxwell Road SW6 A unique Gothic Revival house boasting stunning architectural details and finishes.

Situated on the Fulham/Chelsea border. Approximately 7,748 sq ft.

Guide price £9,750,000

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7

6

Call the Fulham team on 020 8115 3726, we'd love to help you.

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Elegance on a garden square.

5

3

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Kensington Gate, W8 • Recently under gone an extensive renovation project • Perfect blend of period charm and modern living.

• Approximately 3,089 sq ft

Our Kensington expert, Tacita Rolls, looks forward to helping you. tacita.rolls@knightfrank.com 020 7368 0981 07785 904957

Kensington Gate is situated in a cosmopolitan area close to Gloucester Road and Kensington High Street which offers plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes. Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park are a short walk away.

knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Guide price £5,450 per week

Available unfurnished All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. There will also be a £48 charge to register your deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if applicable. (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www.knightfrank.co.uk/tenantfees.

Knight Frank is a member of the ARLA Client Money Protection Scheme and our redress scheme for consumers is Property Redress Scheme.

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Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Uverdale Road SW10 A fantastic Chelsea flat with a wonderful homely feel.

1

1

Mathison House SW10

• Open plan • Porter/concierge

Guide price: £600,000 robert.french@knightfrank.com

Guide price £695,000 robert.french@knightfrank.com

This maisonette has been completely refurbished to create an exquisite home.

• Beautiful finishes • Spacious garden

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• Roof terrace • Approximately 1,394 sq ft

Guide price £1,795,000 robert.french@knightfrank.com

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020 8128 9743

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This property is in immaculate condition, with access to a gym and swimming pool.

1

• Pretty period conversion • Southwest facing patio • Own front entrance • Approximately 543 sq ft

Burnaby Street SW10

1

020 8128 9743

• Communal garden • Approximately 484 sq ft 020 8128 9743

Redcliffe Place SW10

3

This is an elegant house providing excellent family living.

• Stucco fronted house • Beautiful garden

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• Entertaining space • Approximately 2,623 sq ft

Guide price £3,350,000 sarah.rose@knightfrank.com

020 8128 9743

14/12/2018 17:13

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

St. Johns House, SW6 2

2

1

• Spacious open plan living space • Luxurious master suite • Ideally located A recently refurbished, second floor apartment situated in an excellent conversion of a historic high street bank.

Guide price £725 per week Available furnished

chiara.thomas@knightfrank.com 020 3463 2621

The Piper Building, SW6 4

2

2

• Gated, off street parking • Balcony with London views • Moments from the River Thames, South Park and Hurlingham park Third floor apartment featuring triple-height ceilings, exposed beams and wooden flooring.

Guide price £1,700 per week Available part furnished

chiara.thomas@knightfrank.com 020 3463 2621

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. There will also be a £48 charge to register your deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if applicable. (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www.knightfrank.co.uk/tenantfees. Knight Frank is a member of the ARLA Client Money Protection Scheme and our redress scheme for consumers is Property Redress Scheme.

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Did you know?

70% of all prime London developments are for sale with Knight Frank.

Kingwood at 55 Hans Place, Knightsbridge: a development by Finchatton

Register with us for the widest choice of exceptional new homes. We’d love to help you.

Contact Rupert des Forges, Head of Prime Central London Developments, on +44 20 3463 0234

knightfrank.co.uk Statistic based on developments that Knight Frank are directly mandated on in London zone 1 at an average list price in excess of ÂŁ2,000/sq ft.

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15/10/2018 15/10/2018 16:12 11:38

CRANLEY GARDENS, SW7

£1,050 per week

Closely located to all amenities and transport links of South Kensington and Fulham Road, this light neutral second floor apartment with lift is designed in a contemporary style. Comprises of two double bedrooms with west facing terraces, plenty of storage, limestone bathrooms and traditional features. Further communal gardens included.

2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • EN SUITE SHOWER ROOM • BATHROOM • RECEPTION ROOM • KITCHEN • BALCONY • ROOF TERRACE • LIFT • COMMUNAL GARDENS • UNFURNISHED

HERBERT MANSIONS, SW5

£925 per week

A bright west facing 3/4 bedroom apartment with views of the garden square. Spacious open plan entertaining living space with wood floors and large windows throughout. Comprises of three double bedrooms, a 4th bedroom/study, all bedrooms have good wardrobe space and altogether the apartment has excellent storage. Communal gardens included.

3 DOUBLE BEDROOMS/ 1 EN-SUITE • SINGLE BEDROOM/STUDY • FAMILY BATHROOM • KITCHEN/DINING • RECEPTION ROOM • COMMUNAL GARDENS • UNFURNISHED

117 Sydney Street London SW3 6NR Lettings: +44 (0)20 7351 7822 or information@hlrlets.com hlrlets.com USE.indd 1

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LIVING THE

DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market

1

WESTBOURNE TERRACE W2, ÂŁ 1 , 2 5 0,0 0 0

T

his elegant two bedroom apartment is situated on the ground floor of Westbourne Terrace, a Grade II-listed building, close to Hyde Park.

The property boasts bespoke furnishings such as high ceilings, an open-plan reception/diner and kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. Also conveniently located near Paddington and Lancaster Gate stations with links to the Heathrow Express.

KFH Bayswater, 020 7724 1222 kfh.co.uk

OXBRIDGE TERRACE W 6 , ÂŁ 3 , 5 0 0,0 0 0

A

beautiful newly built three bedroom, four bathroom townhouse arranged over four floors.

Located within a sought-after, gated development with a private parking and benefitting from three west-facing balconies overlooking the River Thames. There is a bespoke kitchen with fully integrated appliances and a Home Automation System that controls the lighting, heating and TV's.

YOUhome

Notting Hill Gate, 020 7908 9280 youhome.co.uk 1

140

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

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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET

BENHAM HOUSE

SW 1 0 , G u i d e £ 8 ,0 0 0,0 0 0

A

n exceptional penthouse apartment located in this prestigious Chelsea development. Kings Chelsea offers residents 24 hour security, a porter, underground parking and leisure facilities with communal gardens and a lake.

This penthouse has undergone extensive refurbishment and has benefitted from being interior designed throughout.

KNIGHT FRANK Fulham, 020 7349 4300 james.pace@knightfrank.com

CAROLINE HOUSE

LANCASTER HOUSE

SW 6 , £ 6 0 0 p e r m o n t h

A

superbly presented two doublebedroom, second floor apartment situated within this prestigious development by Berkeley Homes, in the heart of Hammersmith Broadway.

Conveniently located for the many shops, restaurants, and amenities of Hammersmith Broadway, the property briefly comprises of a 24ft. open-plan reception/kitchen and two balconies.

LOCKETT ESTATES

Fulham, 020 7736 2810 lettings@lockettestates.co.uk

W 2 , £ 1 , 8 5 0,0 0 0

A

beautiful, elegant, first floor apartment overlooking Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. The property has been lovingly preserved by the current owners who the second family to have lived here since the 1950's. What makes this property so special is its unique interior which pays homage to its original owner and creator, a theatre-set designer for the London stage.

PRESTIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT

BY BERKELEY HOMES, IN THE HEART OF HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY

YOUhome

Notting Hill Gate, 020 7908 9280 youhome.co.uk

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

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BARTON ROAD, WEST KENSINGTON An exceptional 3 double bedroom flat with a private decked garden.

Accommodation comprises a modern kitchen, dining area and a beautiful reception.The master bedroom has plenty of storage, a modern ensuite and access to a lovely decked garden. There are two further double bedrooms & bathroom. EPC – D

3

2

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GUIDE PRICE

£950,000 FULHAM 020 7610 9755

FULHAM ROAD, FULHAM Featherstone Leigh have five brand new two bedroom properties ranging in price from £595,000 to £825,000 with Help to buy available. All of the flats comprise open plan kitchen living spaces in various configurations, underfloor heating, high quality appliances and fitted storage. EPC - C

2

1

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GUIDE PRICE

£595,000 FULHAM 020 7610 9755

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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

PALMERSTON MANSIONS, QUEENS CLUB GARDENS A wonderful two bedroom flat in the much sought after Queens Club Gardens. The property comprises two very generous double bedrooms with ample storage space, a large kitchen with plenty of space for dining and a sizeable reception room with a balcony. The beautiful setting can be peacefully enjoyed without compromising on proximity to shops, bars and restaurants. The property is also close to both Barons Court and West Brompton stations. EPC - E

GUIDE PRICE

£950,000

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FULHAM 020 7610 9755

23/11/2018 10:21

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk BROOK GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH BROOK ACTON GREEN SHEPHERDS BUSH ACTON

138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 138 SHEPHERDS BUSH ROAD W6 7PB 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD 113 ASKEW ROAD W12 9AS 27 CHURCHFIELD ROAD W3 6BD

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

STERNDALE ROAD W14 GUIDE £2.75M FREEHOLD UPPER MALL W6 • 5 DOUBLE BEDROOMS £1,500PW / £6,500PCM • DOUBLE RECEPTION UPPER MALL W6 • 23’6 x 17’6 KITCHEN/BREAKFAST/FAMILY ROOM •£1,500PW FAMILY HOME •WONDERFUL MEDIA/PLAYROOM / £6,500PCM • •• •• ••

BEDROOMS •4 DOUBLE 3 BATHROOMS (1 EN SUITE) MASTER SUITEFAMILY WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA WONDERFUL HOME 2 LIVING SPACE 4 FLOORS DOUBLE OF BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS MASTER SUITE WITH MEZZANINE STUDY AREA

• 2 FLOORS OF LIVING SPACE • 2 BATHROOMS & 2 SHOWER ROOMS

RAYNHAM ROAD W6 GUIDE £1.275M FREEHOLD HAARLEM ROAD W14 • 3 DOUBLE BEDROOMS £625PW / £2,708PCM • DOUBLE RECEPTION HAARLEM ROAD W14 • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM •£625PW BEDROOM FLAT •2 DOUBLE FAMILY BATHROOM / £2,708PCM • •• •• ••

RECEPTION CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 2 DOUBLE BEDROOM FLAT MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA RECEPTION SHOWER ROOM KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM CONTEMPORARY

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • •• •• ••

• GUEST CLOAKROOM • GOOD STORAGE LETTINGS 020 • ROOF TERRACE GARDENS •2 COURTYARD WALLED GARDEN HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK •EASY EPC ACCESS RATING TO E 53 UNFURNISHED 2 COURTYARD GARDENS EPC 57 HAMMERSMITH & CHISWICK EASYRATING ACCESSDTO AVAILABLE NOW UNFURNISHED

7371 4071

• EPC RATING D 57 • AVAILABLE NOW

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171 LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • •• •• ••

• EN SUITE SHOWER ROOM • GUEST CLOAKROOM LETTINGS 020 7371 • SOUTHERLY FACING GARDEN & ROOF TERRACE •BALCONY EPC RATING D 57 UNFURNISHED WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY BALCONY EPC RATING C 79 UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW WALKING DISTANCE TO HAMMERSMITH BROADWAY

4071

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

• MASTER WITH EN SUITE BATHROOM & DRESSING AREA • SHOWER ROOM

• EPC RATING C 79

L O C A L . I N D E P E N D• EAVAILABLE N T NOW . INVOLVED

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LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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AYNHOE ROAD W14 £1,500PW / £6,500PCM • • • • •

5 BEDROOMS DOUBLE RECEPTION WITH WOOD FLOORING BRIGHT FULL WIDTH KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM 3 BATHROOMS & SEPARATE WC COURTYARD GARDEN

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • • • •

GOOD STORAGE EXCELLENT TRANSPORT LINKS UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW EPC RATING D 58

REDAN STREET W14 £800PW / £3,467PCM • • • • •

3 BEDROOMS RECEPTION WITH WOOD FLOORING KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM BATHROOM PRETTY GARDEN

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• • • • •

CLOSE TO WESTFIELD LONDON EXCELLENT TRANSPORT LINKS UNFURNISHED AVAILABLE NOW EPC RATING D 58

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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020 3284 1888 mayfair@humberts.com

48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair London W1J 5AX

Aubrey Walk William Harley Street Mews £14,000,000 Knightsbridge Marylebone W1G SW7 Asking Guide Price: Price:£1,900,000 £1,075,000leasehold freehold

David Adams Director 48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 5AX T: 020 3284 1888 E: david.adams@humberts.com

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An impressive Art beautifully 5joining reception 7 bedrooms and bathroom A This smart unusually one bedroom largeDeco lateral flatand on apartment the ground wasrefurbished floor created in a by portered block. two rooms, apartments Benefits from together, underground and7includes parking and 2 kitchens, offfeaturing street 3 bedrooms parking and 2the sitting rooms.

1Springfield.

Bedroom, Located1on Reception the 2nd Room & 1aswimming Bathroom lift and a porter. over approx.

In need house a bluewithin plaque formews.

Dusty Private Spafloor withwith 35ft pool, roof 550 of modernisation. sqft.and Unbeatable Leasehold, Knightsbridge location. remaining.

ShareEPC: of Freehold.

D EPC: C terrace off street parking.33 years

Stay in touch with us

humberts.com

13/12/2018 11:37

020 3284 1888 mayfair@humberts.com

48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair London W1J 5AX

Manor William Harley Farm, Street MewsWindlesham £2,795,000 Knightsbridge Marylebone W1G SW7 Asking Guide Price: Price:£1,900,000 £1,075,000leasehold freehold

David Adams Director 48 Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 5AX T: 020 3284 1888 E: david.adams@humberts.com

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On aunusually rural 29 drive from London.

ABenefits lovely 7from bedroom former hunting A This smart onelaneway bedroom large but lateral flatjust on apartment themiles ground wasfloor created in central a by portered joining block. two apartments together, underground and includes parking and 2 kitchens, offand street 3 bedrooms parking within andwith 2the sitting mews. rooms.

1 Bedroom, Located 1on Reception the 2nd Room with &31acres, aBathroom lift and a porter. over In lawn need lodge separate cottage Georgian origins (1757).

On justfloor under mainly laidapprox. to 550 of modernisation. sqft. Unbeatable Leasehold, Knightsbridge 33 years location. remaining.

ShareEPC: of Freehold.

D EPC: C with paddocks, with a cobbled driveway.

Stay in touch with us

humberts.com

13/12/2018 11:37

K I N G S H A L L R OA D | B E C K E N H A M | B R 3 1 F D

Bower Place brings together three beautifully designed homes in one stunning location.

The prestigious new detached homes enjoy at least Âź acre plots all within an exclusive gated community. Located on the highly soughtafter Kings Hall Road, the properties provide the perfect balance between living amongst mature trees and parkland but with a two minute walk to nearby New Beckenham Station.

FURTHER ENQUIRIES info@bowerplace.co.uk 01737 236 150 bowerplace.co.uk

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Sales – Willesden Green : 020 8459 1133 Lettings – Willesden : 020 8450 9377 Sales & Lettings – Queens Park : 020 7328 2828 www.cameronsstiff.co.uk

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HANS CRESCENT KNIGHTSBRIDGE SW1 AN IMMACULATELY PRESENTED LATERAL FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT Hans Crescent has been elegantly interior designed and furnished to a very high standard, creating classical yet contemporary features throughout. The apartment is located within an attractive corner building on the corner of Hans Crescent and Pavilion Road. Just moments from Harrods, Hans Crescent is one of Knightsbridge’s most sought after addresses selection of shops and restaurants both in Knightsbridge and Sloane Street.

Accommodation: Reception/dining room, kitchen, study, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms with ensuite bathroom/shower room. Amenities: Lift, 1,846 sqft.

LONDON

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·

Paul Finch

£6,650,000

paul@beauchamp.com

Leasehold

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

Sole Agents

C A NN E S

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14/12/2018 14:54

WYNDHAM HOUSE CHELSEA SW1 AN ELEGANT AND SPACIOUS THIRD FLOOR LATERAL APARTMENT An elegant and spacious third floor lateral apartment offering well balanced accommodation. the property is presented in very good decorative condition with four/five bedrooms and generous entertaining space. In total the apartment extends to some 284 sq m (3,062 sq ft). Wyndham house is a small handsome stone dressed purpose built block which occupies a position on the south eastern corner of Sloane Square. The many amenities of Chelsea and Knightsbridge are within walking distance.

Accommodation: Entrance hall, reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, four further bedrooms (three ensuite), laundry room, guest WC. Amenities: 24-hour porter, lift, 3,062 sqft.

£5,950,000

Paul Finch

Leasehold

paul@beauchamp.com

Sole Agents

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

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THORNWOOD GARDENS KENSINGTON W8 A STUNNING FIVE BEDROOM HOUSE WITHIN A SECURE GATED DEVELOPEMENT This luxury home is one of only eight houses within this gated development. Arranged over seven floors, including a roof terrace, Thornwood Gardens offers open plan living areas ideal for entertaining, five ensuite bedrooms, a large swimming pool with a sauna, a gym and a jacuzzi. Thornwood Gardens is located off Campden Hill, just minutes from Holland Park, Kensington High Street, Notting Hill and the open spaces of Kensington Gardens.

Accommodation: Entrance hall, reception room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, family room, library, study, master bedroom with dressing room and ensuite bathroom, 4 further bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, 2 guest cloakrooms.

Amenities: Gym, swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi, garden, 2 terraces, balcony, roof terrace, parking.

LONDON

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·

Marcus O’Brien

£15,795,000

marcus@beauchamp.com

Freehold

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

Joint Sole Agents

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14/12/2018 14:54

THURLOE SQUARE KENSINGTON SW7 A MAGNIFICENT GRADE II LISTED HOUSE Built circa 1840 and is located on the favoured east side of this elegant South Kensington garden square. Thurloe Square presents a substantial Grade II listed house designed by architect George Basevi. The house benefits from classic, well proportioned reception rooms, a generous kitchen/breakfast room (with French windows opening onto the garden), a large games room at the lower ground floor and seven double bedrooms. Thurloe Square currently has planning approval (valid for 3 years from August 2018) for a first floor conservatory.

Accommodation: Entrance hall, reception room/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, drawing room, family room, 7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 shower rooms, utility room, guest WC, wine cellar. Amenities: balcony, terrace, garden, storage .

ÂŁ13,500,000

Paul Finch

Freehold

paul@beauchamp.com

Sole Agents

+44 (0)20 7499 7722

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¡

24 Cu rzon St reet , Lon don W1J 7 TF 14/12/2018 14:54

3 Bedroom Penthouse | ÂŁ3,250,000 Great Peter Street, Westminster SW1

The pinnacle of luxury in every sense, this superbly appointed three-bedroom penthouse enjoys a prime location just minutes from the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, and a stunning roof terrace with panoramic views across London.

020 7828 4050 | HOPEHOUSE-SW1.COM

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T he p inn a cl e of l u x ur y T he he a r t of W e s t mins t e r

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STRAND CHAMBERS, LONDON, WC2 A boutique development of just nine 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments located at this world famous address opposite the architecturally appealing Royal Courts of Justice.

This world-class and historic address is synonymous with the best London has to offer; shopping and finedining; theatre and entertainment; museums and culture; and first-class educational establishments.

Finished to a high specification including marble bathrooms, air heating and cooling, fitted kitchens with a range of integrated Siemens appliances (Gaggenau in Penthouse) and a Quooker instant boiling water tap.

COMING SOON

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KEY FEATURES • FITTED KITCHENS WITH RANGE OF SIEMENS APPLIANCES • QUOOKER INSTANT BOILING WATER TAP • MARBLE BATHROOMS • DAIKIN VRF AIR HEATING AND COOLING • BOWERS & WILKINS SURROUND SOUND • SPEAKERS IN LIVING ROOMS • SAMSUNG 55” SMART TV IN LIVING ROOM

JACKSON-STOPS NEW HOMES

020 7664 6649 newhomes@jackson-stops.com www.strand-chambers.com Local and National reach through a network of London and Regional offices.

• VIDEO INTERCOM ENTRY SYSTEM *Internal photography is of previous Seastar Developments and indicative only

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Passions don’t retire.

Visit our show home to see more - by appointment only.

Discover the perfect place to spend time on the things you love at Hampstead Green Place.

Designed to foster creativity and wellbeing, this vibrant collection of 59 apartments is just a short stroll from the Heath. On site, you can relax in your private wellness centre including lap pool or simply enjoy the selection of local produce available in the cafe. Retirement never looked more enviable.

PRICES start from ÂŁ792,500

Exclusively for the over 60s

My life is for Living My address is Hampstead Green Place To experience Hampstead Green Place call Angela on 02079 808 729 PegasusLife.co.uk/HGP | Rowland Hill Street, Hampstead, London, NW3 2AD Destinations Nationwide: London: Hampstead, Purley, Westminster North: Wilmslow East: Harpenden, Sevenoaks West: Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, Portishead, Tetbury South: Brockenhurst, Falmouth, Poole, Seaford, Woking

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Properties of character

14/11/2018 15:54

PROPERTY • FEATURE

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SPEND Laurence Lai a Prime Central London Estate Agent for over 25 years says….

T

here has been a huge amount of speculation as to what may (excuse the pun) or may not happen when Parliament votes in the House of Commons on the Government's Brexit Deal now called "The Meaningful Vote". Even after the vote, we could still be none the wiser as to what Brexit will look like or even how or if Brexit will take place as planned on the 29th March 2019.

Most Financial and Commodity Markets dislike uncertainty and the Property Market is no different. Whilst financial and commodity markets react quickly to change, the property market is slower to respond. In September 2008, Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy and the failure of other major US banks resulted in a

global financial crisis that affected banks throughout Europe. London property transaction volumes fell as did the overall spend on property in Prime Central London. At its lowest point during this time, there were 388 transactions (properties sold) and a total value of approx. £269m in a month.

However since then, we have seen average house prices rise, the number of transactions rise and the total spend on property rise. In July 2014 there were 1,236 transactions with a total value of approx. £1.8bn in Prime Central London.

Stamp Duty Reforms were introduced on the 4th December 2014 with an additional change for Buy-To-Let, Second Homes and Additional Properties introduced from April 2016, both of which had an adverse effect and slowed the sales market down. Since January 2015, transactions volumes in Prime Central London and the total spend

YOUhome and Land Registry Data by Month - London Central TOTAL SPEND £

NUMBER OF SALES

4000.0M

3000

3200.0M

2400

2400.0M

1800

TOTAL £

SALES

2400.0M

1200

800.0M

600

0 01/2015

04/2016

TIME

2015 - 2018

07/2017

10/2018

on properties in Prime Central London has steadily decreased.

The spike on the graph in March 2016 was the Stamp Duty deadline.

However, the average mean selling price in many instances, has actually risen during this period.

This could be attributed to some high value (Super Prime) sales effecting the relatively low volume figures. It is interesting to note that the EU Referendum took place on the 23rd June 2016.

So what does all of the above mean?

The pattern is clear. Since the beginning of 2015, the overall spend on property in Prime Central London has fallen sharply.

In January 2015, the overall spend was approx. £1.2bn and in September 2018 it was £608m.

This demonstrates there are fewer buyers in the market and the competition amongst sellers to secure these buyers is greater.

However, in some instances, record prices have been achieved and there have also been instances of competitive bidding and over asking prices being secured. Therefore, it is important to remember there are always anomalies despite the market trend.

Laurence Lai is the Sales Director and a Property Guru at YOUhome; a new type of Prime Central London Estate Agency that offers a bespoke service for home sellers with combined team experience of over 100 years and sales in excess of 2000 properties. youhome.co.uk

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Home sellers, you probably haven’t heard of us.

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We’re the new estate agents who reach all buyers and pair seasoned gurus with detailed data, perfectly, to sell your home.

Discover how at youhome.co.uk

Prime Central London Experts

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