Absolutely South West, Wimbledon August 2018

WIMBLEDON

ABSOLUTELY South West Wimbledon AUGUST 2018 / £3.95

Rising

HEAT COOL DOWN AT LONDON’S LIDOS

AUGU ST 2018

Summer

SEAFOOD Cooking with Daphne’s

Florence

WELSH Loungewear with Liberty

FRIDA KAHLO From art to interiors

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ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT 30/07/2018 16:20

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents AUGUST 2018

34

14

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

18

AGENDA

Diary dates for August

98 45 HOLIDAY HEROES Summer beauty must-haves

FOOD & DRINK 50 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

24 OUTDOOR SWIMMING

61

FA S H I O N 30 SLEEP EASY

INTERIORS 64 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

32 JEWELLERY

71

34 THE SHOOT

T R AV E L 92 A SLICE OF PARADISE

London's best lidos

Florence Welch's loungewear for Liberty

Beach-ready pieces for summer

Summer fun with March11

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 43 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL This month’s best beauty buys

57

EASY AL FRESCO

London's best ready-made picnics

News and views from the world of design

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

SUMMER LIVING

Interior essentials for warmer weather

Island hopping in the Maldives

PROPERTY 112 LIVING THE DREAM

The most luxurious London properties

ON THE COVER AMÉLIE’S FOLLIES ameliesfollies.co.uk

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

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Replacing beautiful timber windows and doors, beautifully

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN EDITORIAL ASSISTANT GEORGIA MCVEIGH EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES GROUP SALES MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI MAGAZINE MANAGER REBECCA FLEUR MAGAZINE MANAGER TOLGA SAYLAN ACCOUNT MANAGER ENGJI SHALA ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN DESIGNER CATHERINE PERKINS MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE

Window shopping

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@zest-media.com

First Floor, 197 City Road, London EC1V 1JN T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020 zest.london

www.ayrtonbespoke.com

020 8877 8920 enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com

406 Merton Road, Wandsworth, London SW18 5AD 61- 63 Tottenham Lane, Crouch End, London N8 9BE

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Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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

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ISLAND PARADISE

Editor’s

We lap up the luxury of the Maldives on the trip of a lifetime. page 66

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S August issue highlights

1

L

ondon is at its very best in August – and this year appears to have an even greater than usual selection of outdoor things to do. Openair screens are everywhere, people are drinking pink wine on rooftops and you could be forgiven for thinking that we’re a seaside town for all the waterbased activities going on. In this issue we select some of the best outdoor swimming spots, but there’s more to water than that. The Regents Canal at Paddington Basin is hosting everything from rubber duck racing to canal Zorbing, while traffic on the Thames is made up of BBQ cruises and pleasure boats. Other outdoor adventures include the longest, fastest city centre zip wire ever and the Gorilla Circus trapeze. In fact, why go on holiday at all?

Though we are also singing the praises of one of our favourite holiday destinations, the Maldives, while also appreciating the delights of camping in Kent.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

4

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

WINING & DINING

We head to Brixton for some fun and flavourful Japanese fusion food... page 57

2

STYLISH SCENT

We are coveting Arum's hand-poured candles... page 36

3

COVET THIS

The lipstick outdoor furniture set from Diabla puts the fun back into outdoor furnishing. page 12

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MAKE A SPLASH

In light of the British heatwave this summer, we've explored where to cool down in our round-up of London lidos. page 22

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

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Wish LIST 10 THINGS WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE Compiled by

H E L E N B R OW N

14

KISS, CHASE Fun and frivolous, the Lipstick collection is one of Diabla’s more vibrant designs. The set includes an armchair and coffee table and is perfect for adding colourful character to your outdoor space. From £169 diablaoutdoor.com

DRESS TO IMPRESS Dolce & Gabbana's pieces are loved for their vibrant prints and femininity - this dress ticks both boxes. £1,350; net-a-porter.com

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Polaroid is back with the reimagined OneStep from 1977. This version has a high-quality lens and 60-day battery life so you’re always ready to shoot. £99; selfridges.com

COLOUR SPLASH Look and feel your best in the Casbah swimsuit from Miraclesuit.

First and foremost a shape-wear brand, their new holiday collection has been a resounding success. We love it styled as a bodysuit with denim shorts. £169; ameliesfollies.co.uk

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

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

THROWING SHAPES

Marni is most recognised for its eclectic prints and bold aesthetic. We love these geometric earrings for their elegant but unusual design. £300; harveynichols.com

EDITOR’S PICK

SPECS APPEAL

Super, by RetroSuperFuture, ignited the phenomenon of acetate sunglasses. The latest in the SS18 collection, LIMONE, is an oversized silhouette available in four colourful variations for fl irty summer vibes.

Approx £147; retrosuperfuture.com

LADY IN RED

Make a statement with the Le Specs x Adam Selman The Last Lolita sunglasses. The sharp silhouette is infi nitely striking, while the lipstickred hue suits all.£110; farfetch.com

RAINBOW STRIDES

New York-based label Mansur Gavriel works with the fi nest Italian leathers to create fresh, minimalist pieces. This low-block heel will take you from desk to disco. £335; farfetch.com

TASSEL TIME

Diane von Furstenberg’s fun and feminine SS18 accessories collection will add a vibrant fi nish to your summer wardrobe. We like this tasseled number with denim. £247.50; farfetch.com

SUMMER SPICE

Opihr’s new Ready to Drink Gin & Tonic serves offer the intriguing and unmistakable flavour of Opihr Gin, each with a fragrant twist.

Summer socialising has never been easier. £3.90 each; groceries.morrisons.com

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

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CULTURE Keil Abstracts; Gallery Ossowski; ossowski.co.uk

What’s On 18 • Theatre Review: The King & I 21 • London's Lido 24 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Agenda

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

C IN E M A

Film4 Summer Screen From 9 August SOMERSET HO USE

Film4 Summer Screen returns for two weeks with a film-lover’s dream season at the iconic Somerset House. This year’s stellar selection of films are shown on London’s largest outdoor screen, presented in full surround sound and accompanied by DJ sets and exclusive introductions from directors, cast and surprise special guests.

Strand, London WC2R; somersethouse.org.uk

EXHIBITION

LEILA JEFFREYS:

ORNITHURAE O NGO I NG • P U R DY HICKS

In her conscientious way of photographing birds, Leila Jeffreys displays a phenomenal spectrum of colours and nuances the human eye can only appreciate within the stillness of her pictures. Her latest series entitled Ornithurae, comprises over fifteen new portraits of rarely seen and unique breeds of pigeons, each of startling grace and elegance.

25 Thurloe Street, SW7; purdyhicks.com

18

C IN E M A

The Luna Cinema Various dates KEN SIN GTON PA LAC E

The picturesque front of Kensington Palace makes the ultimate setting for a night of cinema under the stars. The iconic venue, with its immaculate formal gardens, will play host to The Luna Cinema for three nights of fantastic films and food. Chose from Romeo & Juliet, Victoria & Abdul or The Greatest Showman. Kensington Gardens, W8; hrp.org.uk Leila

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

LIU BOLIN: VANISHING POINT

Around Town

BEL AIR FIN E ART

F I L M

EX H IB ITIO N

Ongoing

This new major summer showcase from Liu Bolin is the first solo UK exhibition for the renowned Chinese artist. With previously unseen photographic works, Vanishing Point explores Bolin’s signature method of using complicated, hand-painted camouflage to explore visibility, concealment, consumerism and the environment.

105 New Bond Street, W1S; belairfineart.com

FILM4 SUMMER 9-22 August SOMER SET H OUSE

Film4 Summer Screen returns for two weeks with London’s largest outdoor screen, an unbeatable selection of films, DJ sets and a series of introduction from directors, cast and surprise special guests.

Strand, WC2R; somersethouse.org.uk

EX H IBITION

HOPE TO NOPE Until 12 August D E S IGN MUS EU M

This Month’s Must See

From internet memes to the videos that go viral, graphic design and technology play a pivotal role in the way we engage with politics, shaping political messages like never before. Spanning the global financial crash, the Arab Spring, ISIS, Brexit and Trump, this exhibition explores the myriad ways graphic messages have influenced and altered key moments in political history.

224-238 Kensington High Street, W8; designmuseum.org

D AY O U T

GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR 3-5 August ROYAL HOSP ITAL C H ELSEA

SWAN LAKE

E

The Longines Global Champions Tour is a high calibre equestrian show jumping event which welcomes Olympic and World Champions. The London event will be the 13th on the circuit, coming at a key stage in the 2018 season when the ranking battle will be at full throttle.

Royal Hospital Road, SW4; globalchampionstour.com

24- 25 AU GUST • N EW WIMBLEDON THEATRE

nglish Youth Ballet combines tradition with reality in their production of Swan Lake. Comprising a large cast of up to 110 young talented local dancers, the company will perform arguably the world’s most loved ballet, Swan Lake which tells the immortal classic love story of Prince Siegfried and Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse.

The Broadway, SW19;

T H E AT R E

PERICLES 26-28 August OLIV IER STAG E

A huge company of all ages from across London come together with professional artists to breathe new life into Shakespeare’s classic tale of fate, kindness and adventure.

Upper Ground, SE1; nationaltheatre.org.uk

atgtickets.com

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

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KEIL abstracts at

gallery Ossowski

keyw o rd sea rc h/ a r t, con t e mpor a ry, sc ulp ture, m eta l, be a u t y, gla s s, le d lig hts, p ho to g ra p hy, macr o mi cr o, qu a ntum p hysic s, sm a ll w or ld me e t t h e bi g wo rld, p im lic o roa d, h e r i tage , mod e r n, the vo id, g ravity, look los e you r co nsc io usness o f tim e for a t i me , s pi n , pa rtic les a re fields, fi e ld s a re tho ug ht-fo rm s.

83 Piml ico R oa d L on d o n S W 1 W 8PH o s s o w s k i.co.uk

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CULTURE • THEATRE

ROUND UP

Best in

MUST SEE

SHOW From Absurdist dramas to blistering comedies, these are this month’s top theatre picks

By H E L E N B R O W N

THE RISE AND FALL OF LITTLE VOICE ★★★★★ From 16 August PARK THEATRE

Mother and daughter duo Rafaella Hutchinson and Sally George are to be the first family pairing to star as the reclusive Little Voice and meddling mother Mari in The Rise and Fall of Little Voice. Funny, brutal, beautiful and sad, Jim Cartwright’s uplifting tale is a comic tragedy about finding your voice in a noisy world.

Clifton Terrace, N4 parktheatre.co.uk

The Lehman Trilogy ★★★★★ Ongoing LY T TE LTO N T H E ATR E

On a cold morning in 1844, a young man stands on a New York dockside dreaming of a new life. 163 years later, the firm he establishes spectacularly collapses into bankruptcy and triggers the largest financial crisis in history. Sam Mendes directs Stefano Massini’s vast and poetic play.

THE LEHMAN TRILOGY

Upper Ground, Lambeth SE1 nationaltheatre.org.uk

Aristocrats

Exit The King ★★★★★

★★★★★

Ongoing

From 2 August

O L I V I E R THEATRE

D O N M A R WA RE HO US E

Somewhere in Europe the kingdom is disintegrating. Queen Marguerite is preparing for the end and Queen Marie is in denial. The King is 400 years old and dying, but he’s clinging on for dear life. Rhys Ifans stars in the titular role of this great tragi-comedy in what will be the first time Eugène Ionesco’s work has been performed at the National Theatre.

Ballybeg Hall once played host to grand balls, musical evenings and tennis parties; its rooms busy with painters, poets and politicians. Presiding over all of it was the imposing figure of Judge O’Donnell. Now, on the eve of a wedding, the O’Donnell children return to their ancestral home to find that the rot has set in.

41 Earlham Street, WC2H

Upper Ground, Lambeth SE1 nationaltheatre.org.uk

donmarewarehouse.com

The Humans ★★★★★

From 30 August H A M P STE A D TH E ATR E

Stephen Karam’s The Humans follows three generations of the Blake family as they assemble for Thanksgiving. Set in a ramshackle pre-war apartment in Lower Manhattan, Karam’s play is a blisteringly funny but deeply chilling showcase of the human condition; a family at its best and worst navigating the challenges of everyday life.

Eton Avenue, NW3 hampsteadtheatre.com THE HUMANS

EXIT THE KING

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

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26/07/2018 15:47

CULTURE • THEATRE

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

THE KING AND I Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical returns to the Palladium

By PENDLE HARTE

I

t may not be an obvious choice of show for 2018, in our climate of #metoo and Trump, but The King and I has returned to the Palladium.

This award-winning Broadway production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s much-loved musical is undeniably slick and entertaining – we are here for the opening night and despite a clash with the football, the house is packed with starry audience members including Andrew LloydWebber, Zoe Wanamaker and Tamsin Greig.

We all gasp as the curtain opens to reveal a large ship that takes over the entire stage and deposits the recently widowed Anna Leonowens and her son Louis in Bangkok where she is set to take a job as governess to the King of Siam’s many children (67 at last count, with another one on the way). She is dressed throughout in full 1860s European fashion, with an almost comically vast hoop skirt and bodice, in contrast to the king’s wives who all wear simple tunics.

The children are all ridiculously cute, especially the improbably tiny one who steals the show with her

This much-loved musical is undeniably slick and entertaining

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW MURPHY

enthusiasm and sheer dinkiness.

But of course, this is all about the tunes – Shall We Dance? is an unforgettable favourite, as is Getting to Know You. We have come a long way since Yul Brynner’s infamous yellowface performances as the King of Siam, and this cast is heavily populated by Asian actors, with Ken Watanabe making an excellent king to Kelli O’Hara’s Anna. But without wanting to be joyless about what is ultimately a feel-good production, it would be wrong not to note that it does have some very problematic messages at its core. The assumed civilizing influence of the west on the east is one, though Western People Funny as performed by the wives does a good job of mocking that, and the multiple wives’ unfailing loyalty to a husband who frankly has no respect for women is just a touch unpalateable. Making The King and I relevant in 2018 is certainly tricky – one small Trump reference to a wall does get a laugh – and ultimately it's the tunes that make it.

VERDICT

The musical numbers make it ★★★★★ THE KING AND I LONDON PALLADIUM To 29 September kingandimusical.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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THAMES LIDO

The Thames Lido offers an urban oasis for al fresco swimming, dining and socialising. Restaurant Executive Chef, Freddy Bird creates fresh summer recipes with a strong Spanish lilt and Moorish and Mediterranean influences. This will be the lido’s first summer since opening its doors last November. King’s Meadow Park, Reading, RG1 8FR; thameslido.com

I N TO the DEEP

We’re making the most of the British sunshine with a spot of al fresco swimming. Here’s where you can don your swimmers and take a dip when the temperature rises in the city.

By HELEN BROWN

OASIS SPORTS CENTRE A mere five minutes from Holborn, this is one of the West End’s only outdoor swimming areas. The location is prime so it tends to pack out on warmer days, but it stays open until 10pm during the week. When you’re done with your dip there are three squash courts and two fitness studios to enjoy.

32 Endell Street, WC2H; better.org.uk

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CULTURE • SWIMMING

BROCKWELL LIDO This Grade II listed lido boasts an Olympiclength pool, gym, hydrotherapy zone and an indoor cycling studio. Its award-winning café serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. This summer saw the launch of Lido Lates where visitors can enjoy moonlit swimming, music, cocktails and street food.

Dulwich Road, SE24; brockwelllido.com

TOOTING BEC LIDO At a whopping 90m x 30m, Tooting Bec is the largest freshwater open-air pool in the UK. Though the place can still get pretty crowded so an early start is advised. There is a delightful café to rest and refuel in once you’re done swimming.

Tooting Bec Road, SW16; slsc.org.uk

Enjoy moonlit swimming, music and street food

HAMPTON POOL Heated to a balmy 28C and open 365 days of the year, Hampton Pool affords pleasant swimming come rain or shine. It’s branded as a swim, gym and BBQ club and has two pools, a water-side fitness centre, sun deck, café and shop.

High Street, Hampton, TW12 2ST; hamptonpool.co.uk

SERPENTINE LIDO Bang smack in the heart of London is the Serpentine Lido, carved out of the main pond in Hyde Park. Regulars to the water include some of the city’s finest wildlife. But don’t let the ducks deter you. This place is open all year long and has a nearby playground, paddling pool and deckchairs so you can chill out all day.

Hyde Park, W2; serpentinelido.com

LONDON FIELDS LIDO If you’re not one to brave the chill (this is British summertime after all) try a dip in the London Fields lido.

This 50-metre pool is heated and gets packed during summer. Besides swimming, they host workout sessions, yoga and aquarobics. There’s also a café and a sundeck, perfect for an afternoon doze.

London Fields West Side, E8; better.org.uk

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A magical outdoor tale for all the family

Life is suddenly turned upside down and everything becomes curiouser and curiouser…

This summer, join Alice on her amazing journey through Wonderland and experience an adventure like no other. Lewis Carroll’s classic story is cleverly lifted from the page and beautifully brought to life in Glenn Elston’s highly acclaimed production.

Life is suddenly turned upside down for Alice, so join her as she tumbles down the rabbit hole and lands in the magical world of “Wonderland”. It’s a roller-coaster of a story as she bravely bounces from one unexpected and amazing situation to the next.

There’s a wildly curious assortment of characters.

Bump into the skittish, constantly late White Rabbit, sing along with the Dodo and other birds in the Caucaus race and meet the pepper obsessed Duchess and her extremely crazy cook.

The Cheshire Cat will leave you with a grin and you can’t fail to miss Humpty Dumpty on his way to meet Tweedledum and Tweedledee as they tell the tale of the Walrus and the Carpenter. What might seem slightly silly then becomes downright absurd as the Mad Hatter arrives with the March Hare and the Dormouse to have a grand old time with Alice at the tea party. As a magnificent finale, join the Queen of Hearts and her parade of cards.

This is where everyone, both young and a perhaps a little bit older, can be part of the fun.

Presented in a bright performance style, with colourful costumes, interactive games and catchy songs this is a perfect way to go on a wonderful Wonderland adventure with the entire family.

Until 27 August 0871 231 0847 (calls cost 13p per minute plus network extras)

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ARTS & CULTURE • EXHIBITION

Sea

CREATURES The blockbuster exhibition of plastinated fish makes its European premiere in London

By EVE HERBERT

T

his groundbreaking new exhibition allows visitors to explore the secrets of life beneath the ocean’s waves by viewing incredible cross-sections of magnificent sea creatures of all shapes and sizes.

The painstakingly preserved exhibits use the same plastination process developed by Dr. Gunther von Hagens and made famous by artist Damien Hirst, replacing fluids and soluble fats with resins and allowing us to view incredibly accurate ‘cross- sections’ of the creatures. Real-life exhibits include whales, stingray, seal, penguins, octopus, Great White shark and many more. Visitors get an educational and entertaining up-close glimpse of their complex organs.

This new blockbuster exhibition comes to Europe for the first time following a sell-out tour of the US.

Sea Creatures is as educational as it is entertaining and will also feature digital interactive experiences and augmented reality allowing children and adults alike to immerse themselves in an underwater world.

This exhibition is a unique, awe-inspiring, eye-opening insight into the science and anatomy of sea creatures. This blockbuster exhibition is packed with 50 full body, real specimens, 150 body parts and organs and interactive digital exhibits.

Sea Creatures invites family audiences to explore and truly understand marine life, conserving marine species and raises awareness of marine conservation and the harm caused by plastic to the millions of species that dwell within our blue planet.

Visitors should look out for Hai Hai (meaning Sea Sea), a double world record plastinate of a baby Minke whale, which is the star feature exhibit of this blockbuster exhibition. At 3.08 meters high, 6.2 metres in length, 2.55 metres in chest circumference and weighing in at 3000kg, it is an awesome sight.

Hai Hai has won two world records (the world’s first plastinated ocean mammal; and the world’s first plastinated specimen of a whale displaying its internal organs and structure). This exhibit is a true Spirit of The Ocean.

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The plastination process allows us to understand marine life

S E A C R E AT U R E S TO U R 27 JULY – 30 AUGUST RHS Laurence Hall, Greycoat Street, SW1 seacreaturestour.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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IF YOU DON’T LOOK GOOD | WE DON’T LOOK GOOD

FOR YOUR NEAREST SALON VISIT WWW.SASSOON-SALON.COM

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FASHION

JET SET READY N E T-A- P O RT E R

This summer sees the launch of Jet-a-Porter, a carefully curated holiday shop from Net-a-Porter.

With every occasion considered - from summer in the city to cocktails on the beach - the edit ensures that getting dressed and packing are effortless. net-a-porter.com

Florence Welsh for Liberty London 30 • Jewellery: Beach-ready pieces 32 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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MACHINE MADE How Florence Welch is reinventing the classic Liberty print for her collaborative sleepwear collection

S

By EVE HERBERT

tyle icon Florence Welch is a fan of the Liberty print. And she's also a fan of pyjamas. So this collaboration is a match made in design heaven.

"I do a lot of writing in the morning, still in my pyjamas with lots of very strong coffee. And as a Liberty print obsessive, I was honoured that Liberty allowed me to trawl though their archives to create this collection,” she says. Working with the design team and Liberty’s textile archivist Anna Buruma, Florence handpicked a selection of floral paisleys from the extensive Liberty print archive to be reworked onto a range of new sleep styles and accessories.

The first print, entitled Cosmic Jungle, is a blush paisley placement print that has been engineered onto a classic pyjama and long kimono. The Delilah print is a more whimsical design, featuring azaleas, carnations and star flowers. This print is available as a classic pyjama, short pyjama, eye mask and short kimono. The Evelyn print has been created from a paisley motif obtained from a book of drawings from 1820. This motif didn’t exist as a print, but with Florence’s vision, it was re-drawn and brought to life across two colour-ways; a navy and blush.

Lastly the Leontine print is a purple, green and harvest gold fern print from 1963. This print remains true to its origins in both colour and style and adorns classic pyjamas, a short kimono and eye mask. Printed on silk satin, shapes remain easy, inspired by Florence’s need for versatile day to night pieces when travelling, and the special piece long Kimono’s are reminiscent of her covetable concert style.

“Florence embodies the Liberty London women. She has an eclectic style, mixing colours and prints, we also love her sense of travel & adventure which mirrors that of Arthur Liberty, the original founder,” says Amelia Hornblow, Liberty’s director of product. libertylondon.com

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FASHION • FOCUS

L I B E R T Y LO N D O N COLLECTION

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ombining cutting-edge artistry, forward-thinking design and a sense of how to make people feel seen, Liberty has been a destination of discovery since the store opened its doors in 1875. From the outset, founder Arthur Lasenby Liberty sought to beautify everyday things, partnering with progressive artists, nurturing artisans from unexplored continents and reigniting the British textile industry with a range of artistic and innovative fabrics. The birth of Liberty’s signature silk-like cotton, Tana Lawn, would liberate the way people designed clothing and encourage selfexpression. Liberty artefacts, including the extensive print archive, are housed in the City of Westminster Archives.

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Hidden TREASURES Absolutely’s favourite beach-themed jewellery discoveries for summer

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CHAN LUU

ROSANTICA

MERCEDES SALAZAR

Tasseled gold-tone shell earrings , £65 chanluu.com

Mother-of-Pearl beaded bracelet, £250 rosantica.com

Tropical Garden clip-on earrings, £185 harrods.com

ZIMMERMANN

VALENTINO

AURÉLIE BIDERMANN

Tropical Charm gold-plated bracelet, £190 zimmermannwear.com

Gold-plated clip earrings, £105 valentino.com

Gold-plated enameled shell hoop earrings, £445 aureliebidermann.com

PRADA

PASCALE MONVOISIN

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Pop banana earrings, £350 prada.com

Cauri 9-karat gold, diamond & porcelain bracelet, £730 pascalemonvoisin.com

Encrusted pave fish earrings, £390 oscardelarenta.com

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Fine Bespoke Jewellery

Unique

BESPOKE JEWELLERY For a Special Person, Special Occasion

Bespoke Fine Jewellery Designed & Hand-Crafted in-store by Master Goldsmiths An exceptional Personalised Service for New, Dated or Inherited Jewellery Complex Restoration Work & Valuations undertaken

www.michaelplatt.co.uk Goldsmith & Jeweller in Wimbledon Village 1 Church Road | Wimbledon Village | London | SW19 5DW Tel. 020 8947 4772 | info@michaelplatt.co.uk

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Folk

TALES Bold embroidery brings Eastern European enchantment to March Eleven’s summer styles m a r c h 1 1 . co m

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LINGERIE • NIGHTWEAR • SWIMWEAR • BEACHWEAR

Lingerie and swimwear measuring and fitting service available all year round without appointment from A to J cup (size 8 to 20) GIFT VOUCHER AND GIFT WRAPPING AVAILABLE

34 Webb’s Road, London SW11 6SF

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Tel: 020 7924 3826

www.ameliesfollies.co.uk

26/07/2018 15:14

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

COLOUR WORKS LIBERTY LONDON

Colour is self-expression. Paint your lips, layer colour on your cheeks and clash eyeshadows. The Living Colour collection at Liberty London encourages you not to hold back. Be inspired by the array of brands and products available in store and online at libertylondon.com

Beauty Notes 43 • Perfume - East meets West 46 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Top rated teeth whitening treatment from just £249 That’s over 60% off from a very experienced team (offer ends 31st August 2018)

Putney Dentists is an award winning, modern Dental Practice with state of the art equipment, situated in West Putney on the corner of Upper Richmond Road and Dealtry Road.

The Practice caters for all the dental needs of you and your family and is a fully Private Dental Practice. All our Dentists have a minimum of ten years experience and are active in postgraduate training.

2A, Dealtry Road, Putney SW15 6NL Tel: 020 8785 6772

www.putneydentists.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY

S A LO N REVIEW

NOTES

Fresh scents, candles, bubble bath and other luxuries B y PENDLE HARTE

EDITOR’S PICK

NUMBERS GAME PA R L E M O I D E PA R F U M

Benjamin Almairac, son of the legendary perfumer Michel Almairac (Dior, Gucci, Chloe) founded Parle Moi de Parfum. His scents are named for the number of modifications it took to reach the final composition. So there's Un Tonne de Roses 8 or Tomboy Neroli 65. All are presented in clean, minimalist packaging and stocked at Selfridges. parlemoideparfum.com

SCENTS OF STYLE ARUM

Arum's candles are designed to add a touch of joy and beauty to life with their blend of perfumes, paraben-free essential oils and paraffin-free hand-poured wax. We love the best-selling Tea Rose and Clove one – and the packaging is very stylish too. £34 arum.london

PINK LADY POPPY DELEVINGNE & JO MALONE

Jo Malone London's new Queen of Pop limited edition collection is curated by Poppy Delevingne.

Made up of colourful colognes, stripy candles and brilliant bubbles, bubble bath fragrances include Velvet Rose & Oud and Nectarine Blossom & Honey, all in huge 500ml pink bottles. £58 jomalone.co.uk

BODY SILK CLINIC

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B y J OY M O N TG O M E RY

ody Silk Clinic is the local beauty destination that offers a comprehensive menu of aesthetic treatments, including everything from mesotherapy and acupuncture to nail treatments and waxing.

I’m here to try the LPG Facelift, a firming treatment that gives the results of a traditional facelift without going under the knife. What keeps skin looking firm is the base foundation of connective tissue.

The clever LPG machine aims to stimulate and strengthen this tissue and in turn fight against visible signs of ageing. This isn’t just for mature complexions, however, and even temperamental 20-something skin like mine can benefit from the machine’s brightening and sculpting powers.

After a quick cleanse, vitamin C serum is applied. The LPG nozzle is then methodically run across my face and neck. The sensation is not at all uncomfortable – think a mini hoover gently suctioning the skin. The first round stimulates the facial muscles, while the second tackles fine lines. The treatment is finished off with a cooling mask to soothe the skin. Although a course of 10-15 sessions is recommended for best results, I instantly see a difference after one. I’m shown a before and after photo and I notice better definition and reduced puffiness. Hello cheekbones. The LPG facelift is the perfect treatment for those craving a complexion pick-me-up.

Prices start from £45 per session Staplehurst Road, SE13, info@bodysilk.co.uk; +44 207 283 580031

bodysilk.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

SHARON GILSHENAN

SAVIOUR

Have you Heard?

Discover the latest anti-aging solution from The Glasshouse Clinic Wimbledon

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he Glasshouse Clinic Wimbledon opened this spring and has taken on over 1,000 client’s since opening its doors. Slowly becoming one of Wimbledon Village’s best-kept secrets, the clinic offers a range of complexion perfecting facial treatments, pain-free laser hair removal, anti-ageing injectables and Coolsculpting which is a firm favourite and one of the newest treatments available.

Sharon Gilshenan recently joined forces with founder of The Glasshouse Clinic, Alison Telfer; together they are pioneering the latest anti-ageing treatment solutions in south west London. Here, Sharon shares her skin secrets.

SHARON’S STORY Sharon became one of the first nurses in the country to obtain a prescribing qualification and continues to teach and mentor nurses who wish to achieve the same. Like Alison, Sharon has gone on to become one of the leading consultants teaching advanced aesthetics techniques to doctors, nurses and dentists across the UK. Sharon is the perfect ambassador for aesthetic treatment solutions such as anti-wrinkle injectables, dermal fillers, eight-point lifts and mesotherapy. She firmly believes that they should be used in a subtle, natural way to enhance and improve the way you feel about yourself. So with her expertise and experience, and by using only the best products, she can help you achieve your goal.

Many patient’s go to Sharon seeking anti-ageing advise but not wanting dermal fillers. They have tried and tested creams and other treatments but still have not found the answer.

Profhilo is the latest treatment to combat the signs of aging using natural hyaluronic acid. With it, patients see a difference in their skin after just four weeks. Profhilo is a bio-remodelling treatment that works to rejuvenate the skin from within as opposed to freezing or filling wrinkles. Neither a filler or a mesotherapy treatment, this skin saviour has one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid on the market and it leaves skin looking hydrated and plump. It combats the signs of ageing by lifting and tightening sagging skin to create a youthful look and glowing complexion.

HOW DOES IT WORK? The treatment is performed in two quick comfortable treatments, one month apart. Clients can expect to see results within a month but the very best results will be after a second session.

“Growing older gives us great gifts and pleasure, we should embrace it and not fear it as it can be done with grace and poise."

THE GLASS HOUSE CLINIC 32 High Street, SW19 5BY For more information call 0203 968 0788 or visit theglasshouseclinic.co.uk email wimbledon@theglasshouseclinic.co.uk

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HELATH & BEAUTY • SCENT

Perfumes in the East The first luxury perfume collection from Thailand opens an olfactory window into the Orient

E

very once in a while I discover a new Fragrance House that reminds me why perfume has been my passion for over twenty years. I discovered PRYN PARFUM from Bangkok at The Art & Olfaction Awards this summer and was immediately smitten with the very first luxury perfume collection from Thailand.

Founder and ‘nose’ Mr Pryn Lomros studied film direction before a visit to the Cannes Film Festival, rather ironically, ignited his passion for scent. A stint in Grasse (the centre of the French perfume industry) to learn scent-structure fanned the flames and, when he returned to Bangkok, Pryn apprenticed in a perfume company.

He launched PRYN PARFUM in his native Thailand, drawing his creative themes from ancient and modern cultural history and realising his fragrances, appropriately, via the visual world, “I imagine a moving image first, sort of a movie. There are colours, there is sound and texture and I interpret each component by notes and accords.”

PRYN opens an olfactory window into the East with subtly nuanced storytelling and spirituality, combined with rare ingredients of extraordinary beauty. PRYN adds a unique facet to the rich world of luxury scent and heralds the dawn of perfume rising in the East.

‘Magao’ is a citrus/incense scent named after the caves of Buddha in

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the Kobe desert and celebrates this spiritual oasis of ancient China where the caravans of the silk road met the temples of the faithful. Sweet orange and osmanthus blend with Sichuan spices and Chinese tea leaves over a base of incense, wood and leather.

‘Ayothaya’ is named for Siam’s Kingdom of Ayuttahaya which existed from 1350-1767 and was a global centre of commerce and cultural sophistication.

The scent is inspired by this golden age, reinterpreted with sacred incense, spices, gunpowder and Oolong tea.

‘Hikari’ is a story of Tokyo. Hikari ‘light’ in Japanese - juxtaposes ancient and modern Japanese culture using natural elements of historic Japan including the nashi pear, dried yellow chrysanthemum and osmanthus absolute and layering in more modern perfume materials like norlimbanol and ambroxan. ‘Morah’, inspired by Thai folklore ‘Chantakorob’, celebrates the antagonist, Morah, notoriously remembered as a most ‘promiscuous, unchaste’ woman. Exotic and arousing, this fragrance uses native Thai flowers, wild spices and the intoxicating notes of golden champacca and opium to seduce. ‘Le Mimosa’ is an

I imagine a moving image first; there are colours, sound and texture

B y M I C H A E L D O N OVA N

elegant green-fruit scent with apple blossom, green quince and yellow pear providing the fresh, aqueous notes that compliment the mimosa. The leading lady is supported by wild yellow pansy, lily of the valley and violet with a dash of yellow narcissus, fresh cut grass and a passing cloud of creamed vanilla.

‘Turkish Leather’, with its spicedleather accord celebrates Turkey as the ‘gateway’ to The East. Raki, a traditional Turkish drink of anise and other spices is blended with Loukoum - rosewater which uses almond powder.

Caramelised dates and cocao powder add a subtle hint of the gourmand, but it is the leather and suede notes combined with incense and oud that lift this scent to another spiritual plane.

P RY N PA R F U M is an olfactory pioneer, generously permitting us a rare glimpse into a new and thrilling olfactory realm full of light and colour. This is a journey worth taking.

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SOUTHSIDE | WANDSWORTH

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FROM THE PLEASURE GARDENS

OF

LONDON

DON’T MIND IF WE DO! CUTLASS.indd 1 Marylebone_KEY-ART_Poster_FINAL.indd 1

@marylebonegin /marylebonegin @marylebonegin

26/07/2018 22/03/2018 15:20 15:50

FOOD & DRINK

TASTE OF SUMMER SMITH & WOLLENSKY

Smith & Wollensky’s new Seafood & Salad Tower is a feast for the eyes as well as the belly and pairs perfectly with a rosé flight.

The Seafood and Salad Tower is £80 including oysters and £70 without, while the rosé flight is £23.75 for three 100ml glasses. smithandwollensky.co.uk

Food Notes 50 • Eating Out 57 • Ready-made picnics 61 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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W H AT TO D R I N K

GRAPE NEWS

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this August

By GEORGIA MCVEIGH

WINE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE MONTH

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2014 Berry Bros. & Rudd Extraordinary Claret by Ch. Villa Bel Air  £15.50 "EOC”, as it is known, is a Bordeaux blend. It has a rich, Merlot-dominated nose with cherry aromas, notes of cocoa, vanilla and wood smoke, and combines brambly fruit with the savoury elements of Claret.

2017 Macon Lugny, Les Charmes, Camille Paquet  £14.95 This pure unoaked Mâcon has ripe peach and melon notes dancing on a beautifully refreshing and clean palate. A cracking white Burgundy which will taste just as good on its own as with a variety of seafood and lighter meat dishes.

2017 Le Grand Cros, Rosé, Domaine du Grand Cros  £13.95 A blend of Cinsault, Cabernet, Carignan and Grenache, the colour is pale with raspberry, citrus and floral aromas. Juicy acidity combines with lemon and pink grapefruit notes on the palate. Very refreshing.

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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Israeli good D E L I CAT E S S E N

Newly opened Delicatessen is bringing some spice back to Hampstead's leafy streets. Expect vibrant flavours from the Middle East as Yassam Ottolenghi’s head chef Or Golam brings his unique Israeli dishes to North London, featuring favourites like beef carpaccio, golden cauliflower and falafel.

46 Rosslyn Hill, NW3 delicatessen.company

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FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Our pick of the best

TA ST I N G MENUS T H E L E D B U RY

The tasting menu at The Ledbury, Notting Hill's renowned two Michelin Star restaurant is quite something to behold. Head Chef Brett Graham constantly changes this assault on the senses to include only the best and freshest of seasonal ingredients.

It doesn't come cheap, but it's worth it for that special occasion. theledbury.com

FERA

WINE & DINE N AU G H T Y P I G L E T S

The extensive wine list at Brixton's Naughty Piglets is enough to lure in any discerning wine connoisseur. But for lovers of food and wine alike there is no doubt that Naughty Piglets turns Brixton into a destination rather than just a pit stop. Dishes from the charcoal grill feature the likes of Confit Duck with apricot and shiso and Roast Cod with girolles, hazelnuts and sea astor, and can be paired with wines from all corners of the world.

28 Brixton Water Lane, SW2 naughtypiglets.co.uk

Claridge's michelin starred restaurant, Fera (meaning 'Wild' in Latin), lives up to it's name and adds a touch of the untamed to the heart of Mayfair. The tasting menu is designed to evoke the colours and textures of the British landscape, and it doesn't disappoint, providing classic British dishes with a twist. claridges.co.uk

SURF ‘N TURF ICHIBUNS

Luxury fast food restaurant ICHIBUNS will be stopping the use of single use plastic to coincide with the launch of a new menu. Old favourites such as the Cheeseburger Harumaki will remain, while new dishes like Dynamite Shrimp in spicy sauce will be thrown into the mix - and we can't wait.

22 Wardour Street, W1D ichibuns.co.uk

MEDLAR

More understated than it's swankier counterparts, Chelsea's Medlar nonetheless deserves a mention. With locally sourced ingredients converted into beautifully crafted French food, every course on the tasting menu is a superbly cooked, delicately presented and a joy to eat. medlarrestaurant.co.uk

FINE DINING THE SALON FERA

DATE NIGHT Z UAYA

New South American restaurant Zuaya creates dishes that are both picture perfect and delicious. Combining the best flavours from Peru, Argentina and Mexico, these colourful plates and creative cocktails are the perfect recipe to blow your date away.

35 Kensington High Street, W8 zuaya.co.uk

MEDLAR

Serving an ever changing seasonal set menu in the relaxed upstairs dining room, The Salon describes themselves as "fine dining, but without the fuss".

Choose between the four or seven course tasting menu, or pop in for a drink at the downstairs bar.

18 Market Row, SW9 salonbrixton.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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aphne’s is rocking with doors open wide, spritzes a-plenty, flowing rosé and the freshest summer produce. You could be forgiven for thinking you were languishing on the Amalfi Coast.

There’s no doubt that this laid-back neighbourhood restaurant will eek out the summer well into September, offering long luxurious lunches and heady Mediterranean dinners. And look out for Daphne’s Presents in the autumn, when Shelley Von Strunckel kicks off the series of dinners on 4 September.

Daphne’s Scallops with Chilli & Garlic Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

Taste of

ITALY

For August, Daphne’s restaurant shares three seafood dishes that promise to transport your table to the Amalfi coast r e c i p e s M I K E B R OW N photography JEAN CAZALS

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• 16 large king scallops in shell • A glug of olive oil • 175g salted butter (or more if you want to be really indulgent) • 1 medium sized and strength red chilli, deseeded and sliced thinly widthways • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed • 150g barba del frate (monk’s beard), roots removed. You should be able to get this at specialist Italian shops or on Ocado when it’s in season (mid February to mid May).

If you’re doing this dish between mid June and late August, you can use samphire instead • Sea salt flakes

METHOD 1 If you’re going to cook these as soon as you get home, get your fishmonger to open the scallops, leaving them attached to one side of the shell. If not, get them to show you how to do it. Clean with cold running water and carefully dry off with kitchen paper, ensuring you leave the scallops in their half shells.

2 Season the scallops with a little salt.

Heat a large frying pan on a medium to high burner. Add a good glug of olive oil and cook the scallops meat side down for 2 minutes. You may have to do this in batches, or in 2 pans.

3 Remove the scallops from the pan and put on a large serving plate, meat side up.

Add the butter, chilli, garlic and barba del frate (or samphire) together in the pan that you cooked the scallops in and turn the burner to a medium heat. Cook out for 3 minutes until the butter is gently bubbling, but be careful not to burn. Pour over the scallops and serve with crusty bread.

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Daphne’s Octopus Carpaccio with Caper & Chilli Dressing Serves 4

INGREDIENTS • 2 octopuses • 20g black peppercorns • 1 medium sized onion, peeled and cut in half • A good glug of white wine (around 100ml) • sea salt • 100ml extra virgin olive oil • 1 medium sized and strength red chilli, deseeded and sliced thinly width ways • 100g capers, drained and roughly chopped • Juice of 1 lemon • 1 spring onion, outer leaves removed, topped and tailed and thinly sliced

METHOD 1

Put the octopuses into a large saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil on a high heat. Once boiling, remove from the heat and drain 2 Put the octopuses back into the saucepan, cover with cold water 3

Add the onion, peppercorns and wine, and cover with a heat-proof plate or heavy utensil to keep the octopuses submerged.

Bring back to the boil

Each length will have a tentacle and part of the upper body 8 Now spread a large sheet of clingfilm out onto a table and carefully lie all the tentacles onto it, ensuring that they all run the same way and that the body part is at the top 9 Roll the clingfilm around and twist into a sausage shape as tight as you can tying a knot at either end to secure

4 Once boiling, turn the heat down to a simmer and cook for an hour

10 Wipe off any excess liquid with some kitchen paper and put back into the freezer.

This needs to be frozen for at least four hours (overnight is fine)

5 When you think it’s ready, check that the flesh is soft by inserting a small knife into the thickest part of the tentacle. Drain again, discarding the cooking liquid

11 When you take it out, if you can’t cut through it straight away with a sharp knife, leave to soften a little. Now gently peel back the clingfilm.

6 Whilst still hot, cut away the head and hard beak and discard. Rinse the rest of the body

12 Slice thinly, laying each piece onto a large serving plate, all slightly overlapping.

7

Now cut from each tentacle upwards through the body so you end up with six into individual lengths for each octopus.

13 In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the lemon juice, capers, spring onions and chilli.

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Pour over the octopus and serve.

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A quirky. Seductive Camden hotspot, Trufflesecco is an intimate truffle and prosecco bar that serves up bold, inventive Italian flavours. The premium menu is complemented by the stunning interior, with repurposed wood, antique chairs and bottles of wines lining the exposed brick walls. Â The Trufflesecco menu artfully uses premium imported fresh truffles in a selection of Italian delicacies. Prosecco takes centre stage on the drinks menu, however a wide selection of still wines and spirits is also available. Â Join us at Trufflesecco to celebrate everyday life in style with a bite of truffles and a sip of bubbles!

Location: 11 Camden High Street, London, NW1 7JE Social: @trufflesecco | Web: trufflesecco.com | Email: booking@trufflesecco.com | Phone: 02034179889

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Daphne’s will eek out the summer well into September with long luxurious lunches garlic, chilli, wine and tomatoes to a large frying pan and heat on a medium burner until the liquid is boiling.

9 Now add the lobster pieces and cook for a minute. When the spaghetti is ready, drain but be careful to retain about 100ml of pasta cooking liquid.

10 Now add the drained spaghetti to the lobster mix.

11 Boil and stir until it all comes together, adding more pasta liquid if it’s too dry. The pasta should be firm to the bite.

Daphne’s Spaghetti with Lobster Serves 4

INGREDIENTS • 500g top quality spaghetti (at Daphne’s, we use Giuseppe Cocco, which you can get in Waitrose, or you can buy it online.

Otherwise, use your preferred spaghetti) • a squeeze of lemon juice • 2 whole live lobsters (the best ones are usually between 600g and 800g each) • 200ml olive oil (extra virgin is best) • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed • 1 medium sized and strength red chilli, deseeded and sliced thinly width ways • 200g cherry tomatoes, cut in half • A good glug of white wine (100ml) • 2 medium bunches (approx. 40g) flat leaf parsley, roughly chopped (including the stalks) • Sea salt flakes

METHOD Put the lobsters into the freezer for half an hour before they go into the water. This dullens their senses.

1

2

Now add cold water and a good pinch of salt to a large saucepan and bring to the boil.

12 When you think it’s ready, add the remaining olive oil and the chopped parsley.

13 Season to taste with salt, stir and serve straight into warmed pasta bowls.

3 When the water is rolling, add the lobsters and cook for seven minutes.

4 Drain and run the lobsters under the cold tap for 5 minutes to cool.

5 Remove the meat from the shells (there’s a very good tutorial from the BBC here) and cut into bite sized pieces.

6 You can use the same large pan that you cooked the lobster in for the spaghetti – just rinse it out.

7

Add cold water, a good pinch of salt and bring to the boil.

8 When the water is rolling, add the spaghetti and cook al dente for 4 minutes only. Whilst doing this, add half the olive oil,

DA P H N E ’ S I N C H E L S E A OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK. 112 Draycott Avenue, SW3 3AE; 020 7589 4257 daphnes-restaurant.co.uk

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@WhitleyNeillGin

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“Big robust dishes that smack you in the face with flavour”

Nanban Fun and flavourful Japanese fusion food in Brixton

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FOOD Japanese food with creative flare

B y H E L E N B R OW N

ondon is in the midst of an obsession with all things Japanese so it takes something stellar to stand-out in its long line of casual Japanese eateries. Enter Nanban, a busy little hotspot on Coldharbour Lane, just a chopstick’s throw from Brixton station. It comes from American-born head chef Tim Anderson, Masterchef winner and high-flyer on London’s restaurant scene. He was recently nominated as one of the capital’s top 12 chefs by Timeout. Nanban delivers soul food; big robust dishes that smack you in

the face with flavour. Tim plays with influences and flavours to create a menu of Japanese food that is quite unlike anything you’ve tried before.

Our selection of starters defines fusion food. We go for the usual Japanese suspects - edamame beans and hanetsuki gyoza, plus padron peppers and crispy deep-fried chicken wings. We definitely over order but enjoy picking our way through the mish-mash of flavours and textures. The wings are a clear winner. They’re not as spicy as the three chilis on the menu would suggest, but for me they are perfect.

Wanting something light and

DECOR Casual and comfortable

PRICE Small plates from £4.50, mains from £10

VERDICT Japanese cusine done differently; a must-try

refreshing in the midst of a British heatwave, I opt for the roasted aubergine ramen salad - a new addition to the menu. It comprises ramen noodles with slow-roasted aubergine, ponzu, onsen egg, fresh mint and crushed white sesame seeds. Basically the integral parts of a typical ramen, without the hot, sloppy broth. It’s fresh, fragrant and vegan, no less, but still manages to deliver the substance and satisfaction of a steaming bowl of noodles. A kick of fresh ginger does wonders to lift the dish.

My pal goes for the lazy goat ragùmen which features a slow-cooked goat leg enrobed in a rich sauce and accompanied with noodles, seafood sawdust, fried shallots, scotch bonnet bamboo shoots and a tea pickled egg. I’m not sure that ramen traditionalists will enjoy the dish; it’s much thicker than the norm and eats more like a curry. But flavour-wise it’s divine. Earthy and unctuous, it’s a renegade ramen and showcases exactly what makes Nanban stand out among its Japanese contemporaries. Definitely one to try when you’re next in the area.

NANBAN 426 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, SW9; nanban.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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

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

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20/06/2018 17:16

FOOD & DRINK • FOCUS

Steak of the Art

From the Big Apple to the Big Smoke, American steakhouse Smith & Wollensky sets the bar high with an unmatched menu and creative cocktails

By P E N D L E H A R T E

WHAT IS SMITH & WOLLENSKY? Smith & Wollensky has been serving up the finest USDA Prime dry-aged steaks in America since opening its doors in New York in 1977. After winning the heart of the Big Apple, those award-winning steaks were soon found all across America, from the windy city of Chicago to the hot sands of Miami Beach. Smith & Wollensky launched its first London site in the historic grade-II listed Adelphi Building just off the Strand in 2015. Specialising in the very best USDA Prime and Premium Irish Beef, every cut is dry-aged and butchered in-house. As if that wasn't enough, you'll find the freshest seafood, alongside award-winning wines and classic cocktails.

From the glamorous reception to the 1920s art-deco interiors (designed by go-to restaurant guru Martin Brudnizki, who has been responsible for - among many Sexy Fish and the new Annabel's) Smith & Wollensky marries the elegance and timeless appeal of the restaurant’s rich heritage across the pond with the essence of London’s innovative dining scene. Smith & Wollensky occupies two floors with two full-service bars and three beautifully appointed private dining rooms (one with its own dedicated bar!), making it the perfect spot for just about any celebration.

WHAT’S FOR DINNER?

At the heart of every Smith & Wollensky is the steak and in particular the corn-fed beef from Greater Omaha selected from the top 2% of beef in the US and hand-picked for its rich, even marbling, the USDA Prime is dry-aged for no less than 28 days to intensify flavour and increase tenderness. Expect some of the very best steaks you've ever tasted in London.

“Hand-picked for its rich, even marbling”

Shellfish is another menu centrepiece; the signature shellfish platters really do make the most of the coast. Platters of varying sizes include the likes of lobster, crab, oysters and clams, all served over crushed ice. Instagram at the ready. Sides are by no means sidelines either – the giant onion rings and truffled mac ‘n’ cheese to share are the stuff of legend. And to satisfy those with a sweet tooth, desserts include the famous gigantic chocolate cake that will encourage even those with the strictest willpower to ditch the diet, plus classics like the New York style cheesecake.

Set against a handsome backdrop of rich oak panelling, buttery green leathers and vibrant pops of red, sit back and enjoy one of 30 classic cocktails with a contemporary twist - from from Martinis to Manhattans - or a glass of something special from the enormous wine list boasting over 540 bins from all over the world with a stunning selection from the USA, of course.

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020 8644 8523 www.annsdesignercakes.com

Authentic Punjabi Restaurant

Vin and his team specialize in the finest, most authentic Punjabi cuisine, using traditional Tandoor cooking methods and family recipes passed down from generation to generation Try our magnificent champagne beer as well, Curious Brew, the perfect accompaniment to wash down our delicious food

~

“This is the best Indian in London. I work in central London and haven’t found anywhere that compares, brick lane falls way short in comparison…”

J. Macdonald,Wimbledon

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193 Worple Road, Wimbledon SW20 8RE 020 8947 2212 info@sairestaurant.co.uk www.sairestaurant.co.uk

26/07/2018 15:06

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FOOD & DRINK • AL FRESCO

PA R K life

We’ve rounded up London’s finest readymade picnic hampers for when a soggy sandwich simply won’t do. Al fresco feasting has never been easier.

B y PA O L A P E R A LTA

SUNSHINE AND SHERRY

PICNIC TO IMPRESS

Xeco’s unique take on the traditional picnic comes with a bottle of Fino Sherry and Double Dutch tonic water for a refreshing ’She & T’. Your aperitif is accompanies by a lavish selection of snacks including British charcuterie and gourmet crackers. £50; xecowines.com

For anyone looking to really push the boat out, the Luxury Picnic Experience from Corrigan's includes personal butler service to ensure that the Champagne flows and the food is served with finesse. Dishes come from the Michelin-starred British and Irish menu. From £1,000; corrigansmayfair.co.uk

PICTURE PERFECT This beautifully packaged hamper features a range of savoury goodies including rye biscuits with cheese and chili chutney, Italian grissini breadsticks and rosemary spiced nuts. To satisfy sweet teeth, there is dark chocolate dipped honeycomb and strawberry marshmallows.

From £45; ottolenghi.co.uk

BEST OF BRITISH Tuck into a delectable selection of British food with the Scott’s Picnic Lunch from The Mount Street Deli.

Inside you’ll find British sparkling wine, sandwiches, salads, sausage rolls and veggie quiches. Sweet treats of course include scones, along with Union Jack cupcakes. £60; themountstreetdeli.co.uk

FRESH AND FLAVOURFUL This summer, Bulgari Hotel London is offering Rivea On The Go, a gourmet picnic lunch put together by Rivea Head Chef Antonia Corsaro. With a range of Italian salads to choose from, along with dainty sandwiches and a granola, red fruit and yoghurt dessert, Rivea On The Go delivers fresh flavours without compromising the waistband. £22; rivealondon.com

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INTERIORS

PERSONAL SPACE

SWEETPEA AND WILLOW Sweetpea and Willow's Handmade with Love range offers a totally bespoke service where you can choose the size, height, shape, fabric, design and colour to create the perfect bed for you. sweetpeaandwillow.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Interior inspirations 64 • Lovely linen 67 • Summer living 71 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

HOME COMFORTS FRENCH CONNECTION HOME

Among the high street fashion names that have launched homewares, French Connection stands out for its fabulous textiles.

Rugs, cushions and throws are all well-designed in a range of patterns and embellishments – and they're well-priced too. frenchconnection.com

FLAT OUT

ORLA KEILY / BRABANTIA

A new collaboration between Brabantia and Orla Kiely has resulted in this most stylish ironing board. It's a limited edition run, so get yours quickly; £114.50 johnlewis.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

WALK ON BY All our favourite rugs

EDITOR’S PICK

FRENCH CONNECTION Black and white Aztec rug, £250 frenchconnection.com

RIGHT ANGLE HAY

30degrees is a lightweight shade made of laminated oak veneer. The seamless surface is achieved by aligning the ends of semicircular veneer sheets at a 30degree angle, so the inside cone and internal angle is always 30 degrees hay.dk

TABLE TALK

THE RUG SELLER Hanging rugs, £POA therugseller.co.uk

HEERENHUIS

The beautiful handcrafted Larbus table by Belgian brand Heerenhuis is made from solid French oak with a sapwood edge. It's available in a wide array of sizes at Maida Vale's Different Like a Zoo, from £5,045 differentlikeazoo.com

MADE Hand-tufted wool rug by Rhonda Drakeford, £299 made.com

HABITAT Simone multicoloured rug, £500 habitat.co.uk

BROSTE COPENHAGEN Marble pattern rug in cotton, £POA brostecopenhagen.com

STORED IN STYLE BRITISH STANDARD

SANDERSON Rose & Peony rug, £449 modern-rugs.co.uk

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British Standard is an off-the-shelf cupboard range of simple, honest, affordable cupboards for kitchens, utility rooms and studies. Here is their configuration at Chelsea's new Love my Human pet parlour. britishstandardcupboards.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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The Foundation for Perfection Manufacturers of Fine Parquet & Inlay flooring Bespoke flooring • Engineered wood flooring Range of soft carpets • Add robust tiles to your kitchen

For beautiful new flooring that will last, give us a call on 020 8543 9083 258 - 260 The Broadway, London SW19 1SB

abbotswoodflooring.co.uk

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INTERIORS • PROMOTION

A LOVE OF THE CRAFT Robert Skiba, founder and owner of Roscar Developments, talks about his company

just small sections (we always get asked back to do more anyway).

What makes the difference is the experience of our staff. Whether our labourers or me, it’s the years of learning that count – working out how to do something in a way that is cost-effective but achieves the result. Other companies come and go and make empty promises – but we deliver – ask our customers. We’re always there to discuss how the project is going and suggest what will work.

I’ve worked in various areas of the country during my career but it’s the most recent ones working in London that have been the most exciting. With space so expensive it’s so important to use it well and that’s where the business is growing – converting whole spaces – whole house projects. I’m on with several at the moment and the team are ahead of schedule and on budget for them all – this gives us a great platform to grow the business.

F

rom the many years I’ve spent in the building trade I’ve always loved seeing a project move from concept to completion. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver each and every project, no matter how big or small, to a high standard, on time and on budget. The handover to the client is always the most pleasurable part – seeing the transformation that we’ve made of their dreams coming true.

That’s what continues to drive me to produce the best quality property work that I can. Even after 35 years, I still get excited about each new project: my enthusiasm has never waned. Using all those years

T E ST I M O N I A L of experience to solve the problems other people said couldn’t be solved and creating the space that customers yearn for.

That’s what makes the difference – taking the project from the beginning, then recognising and developing the possibilities to use space effectively. We do this by using modern building methods and building materials while keeping as many original features as we can to create a blend for modern living. The range of products available today enables us to achieve whatever the client desires, whether it's a bathroom, kitchen, orangery, or just a cool living space in which to unwind, relax and enjoy some well-earned quality time.

Our work tends to be in the residential sector where we take a property and work with the client’s or our own architect to create a workable plan of property conversion. This can be a whole house or

Robert and his team, Lukas, Maciek, & Zibi were superb. They are a great team, who went above and beyond in terms of the additional fixes/features of the build.

R O S CA R D E V E LO P M E N T S 020 7043 1613 roscardevelopments.com

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Absolutely takes a tour of Kate Moss’s bathroom, which features the model’s own wallpaper design

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andmade using traditional manufacturing techniques, Drummonds’ splendid Double Lowther Vanity forms the magnificent centerpiece of Kate Moss’s bathroom.

The brassware of the stand and taps is cast using the classic lost wax process and the white china basins are made in English clay, hand glazed and hand-finished.

Highly figured Arabescato marble underlines the sheer scale and luxury of this piece.

To partner the Lowther, Moss chose a freestanding, double-ended Spey bath with a hand-painted exterior. This is just one of Drummonds’ many cast iron bath designs, each of which takes several weeks to make in a series of craft processes beginning with casting the molten iron and completed by dry fit enameling and custom exterior finishing.

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INTERIORS • STYLE

THE LOWTHER VANITY BASIN SUITE WITH ARABESCATO MARBLE £7980 • THE MULL CLASSIC 3-HOLE BASIN MIXER £1170 THE SPEY CAST IRON BATH TUB FROM £3570 • THE MULL CLASSIC BATH & SHOWER MIXER £1554 • THE BRORA HIGH LEVEL WC SUITE £2334 drummonds-uk-com

Hand-painted Anemones in Light wallpaper designed by Kate Moss in collaboration with de Gournay.

Dusk design colours on custom grey painted Xuan paper. degournay.com

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

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77-79 WESTBOURNE GROVE - W2 4UL LONDON - UK Tel: +44 (0) 20 7221 5137 london@devon-devon.com

FLORENCE ·

CHICAGO ·

COPENHAGEN ·

HAMBURG ·

ISTANBUL ·

LONDON ·

MILAN ·

MUNICH ·

NAPLES

NASHVILLE · NICE · PADUA · PARIS · PRAGUE · ROME · SHANGHAI · TBILISI · TEL AVIV · WARSAW · WIEN

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HERE COMES THE SUN

INTERIORS • SUMMER

Absolutely’s edit of summer essentials

1

LOUNGE LOVERS L A M Z AC

Fatboy's original Lamzac is a comfortable and robust lounge bed that's so low-maintenance that you don't even need a pump. Just pull it out of the bag, wave it around to fill with air, clip it shut and jump in. It'll easily hold 200 kilos even though it weights just one. Take it to the park, the beach or anywhere – it's the ultimate crowdpleaser. £74.50; fatboy.com

By PENDLE HARTE

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BLUSH FRESH PINKSTER

1 4

Drinking pink things is one of the best things about summer and we love Pinkster's pink gin – especially the fact that it comes in a specially large box for picnics and festivals. Why carry four bottles around when you can take a box? pinkstergin.com

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WHEELS UP ELECTRA

To look at them you might think that Electra's new range of bikes is all about style – but these are high class cycles, all quality components encased in beautiful, colourful frames. We like the Loft city bikes in their stylish candy colours. electrabikes.com

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4

TWEET TWEET

3

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This might sound insane, but bear with us. The zwitscherbox is a batteryoperated, motion-triggered birdsong simulator. Walk past it and the eager sound of chirping birds will transport you to straight from your urban garden to a dreamy rural spot. It stops after a while – and makes a fun addition to a bathroom too. zwitscherbox.com

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SMALL TALK LEXO N

These colourful objects may look like your favourite brand of coffee capsule, but in fact they are Lexon's dinky Mino bluetooth speakers. Despite being tiny enough to fit in the palm of your hand, they offer great sound, good battery life and an attractive look. stonegift .com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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F R I DA K A H LO AS THE V&A FOCUSES ON HER LIFE, ABSOLUTELY LOOKS AT THE ARTIST’S ENDURING INFLUENCE ON HOMEWARES

FRIDA’S FACE GRAHAM &GREEN

The Mexicana cushions are carefully handcrafted in vibrant cottons to create beautifully embroidered designs for true Frida fans. £39 grahamandgreen.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

GARDEN PARTY TALKING TABLES

Anyone throwing a Frida Kahlothemed garden party needs to look at Talking Tables' fabulous Boho collection. Frida cups, pompom fairy lights, colourful garlands and assorted pieces of Mexicana will guarantee a proper Frida Fiesta. talkingtables.co.uk

CHANGING FACES JONATHAN ADLER

Jonathan Adler’s lidded Frida Vase has the same surreal spirit as did his muse Frida herself. Each side of the vase holds a different expression and enticing emotion. Hand-cast from white porcelain, it is an absolute conversation starter sure make an impression. £295 jonathanadler.com

CANVAS TRIBUTE AUDENZA

This Frida Kahlo style print is the most amazing hit of rich jewel colours for a really stunning piece of wall art. Queen of kitsch and maximalism Frida Kahlo was famed for her iconic self-portraits and love of florals and clashing colours and this print in the style of her self-portraits, certainly does her work justice. £45. audenza.com

MUG SHOTS IAN SNOW

Although the format of these enamel cups is Kahlo-esque, the enamel hand-painting derives from a traditional style that originated in Iran. For gorgeous pops of colour around the home, on picnic or great for camper vans, this collection of a practical stainless steel mugs just rock. These cups are fairly traded from India. £16.99 iansnow.com

EGG HEADS OMM DESIGN

These Frida and Salvador egg cups by OMM Design and Ingela P Arrhenius are printed with two of the world’s most legendary artists.

A cool, minimalist take on these two icons, £16.95. cultfurniture.com

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INTERIORS • KITCHENS

Counter Culture Tomas Kitchen Living are a fabulous British brand, specialising in the design, manufacture and installation of very beautiful kitchens and furniture

By EVE HERBERT

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“Solid oak drawers and gorgeous earthy colours”

T

he look is described as ‘classic modern’ the quality is superb and the prices are not unreasonable... this is Tomas Kitchen Living.

Founder and head designer Tomas Hinton opened his first London showroom in Hampstead Garden Suburb in the spring of 2016 after establishing showrooms in St Albans and Cambridge, where everything is made.

A kitchen project will usually begin with a visit to one of the three showrooms. This can be for an appointment with Tomas or simply a drop-in during normal opening hours. On show in all three sites are impressive displays of solid oak drawers, ply carcasses and gorgeous earthy colours. If you like what you see and budgets are more or less in alignment, the next step is a design meeting. Kitchen projects vary in price according to size and specification, but a typical kitchen with appliances and tops usually comes in between 28 and 33k including VAT. Tomas have also developed a really interesting furniture side too. Dining tables, lounge tables, sideboards and the like all complement the kitchens beautifully and work equally well on their own.

Furthermore, Tomas are dealers for many top Danish furniture and lighting brands such as Louis Poulsen and Carl Hansen & Son. The design details, the quality and the colours all combine and form something special, something different something you’re going to love. tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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K EY F E AT U R E S No foundations, mess or noise during installation.

Rapid installation (and relocation if required!)

No maintenance and very energy efficient.

2700 standard colour combinations plus unlimited other finishes.

Interior design service available.

NO APPROVALS REQUIRED.

MESS FREE CONSTRUCTION Designed to comply with Permitted Development Regulations

C a l l n ow fo r eve n m o re i d e a s !

077 8858 2779 hello@ultimategardenroom.com ultimategardenroom.com

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RATTAN JIGSAW RATTAN

Absolutely swoons over Neisha Crosland’s new tile collection for Artisans of Devizes

JIGSAW PUZZLE

PATTERN TILE

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With a satin finish, this encaustic tile comes in Aqua Heather, Cinnamon, Mandarin and Slate Smoke for use on interior floors and walls.

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eisha Crosland’s new encaustic tile collection for Artisans of Devizes plays with her distinctive patterns on unusual tile shapes that fit together to create fabulous floor and wall tiling for interiors in a kaleidoscope of original colour.

She says ‘ a good pattern is one that people can connect with. It must have a sense of familiarity but at the same time the design must surprise them with its freshness. Jigsaw does just that.

The six patterned tile play with shape from squares to a diamond, fan and prolong hexagonal. These explore optic angles and stars, castellated edges, overlapping lines and dynamic geometrics. Colours are dusty pinks, jades, primrose and pomegranate.

The encaustic nature of the tiles gives the colours a subtle softness. artisansofdevizes.com

HOPSCOTCH JIGSAW HOPSCOTCH PATTERN TILE

With a satin finish, this encaustic tile comes in Denim Ochre, Plaster Grey, Pomato Pink, Pumice Ginger and Tumeric for use on interior floors and walls.

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INTERIORS • DESIGN

SUN JIGSAW SUN

PATTERN TILE

With a satin finish, this encaustic tile comes in Burnt Sienna, Duck Grey, Pebble Grey, Pistachio and Sludge Grey for use on interior floors and walls.

FERN JIGSAW FERN

PATTERN TILE

With a satin finish, this encaustic tile comes in Black Cream, Blue Charcoal, Clay Mud and Smoke Sage for use on interior floors and walls.

MOGHUL JIGSAW MOGHUL PATCH PATTERN TILE

With a satin finish, this encaustic tile comes in Putty Stone, Shrimp Blue and Tumeric Slate for use on interior floors and walls. interior floors and walls.

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

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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

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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

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INTEIRORS • STORAGE

PUT IT

AWAY How to be both stylish and organised

By EVE HERBERT

USM

P

ARTISANNE

BISLEY

ractical yet striking, home storage options are now design statements. Whether the classic design of a Bisley multi drawer or the handmade natural qualities of an Artisanne basket, there are options that fit within any interior scheme. Getting organised has never been so beautiful.

ARTISANNE creates beautiful

handwoven baskets in partnership with a team of talented traditional artisans from the remote villages of the Thiès region of Senegal. Each Artisanne piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail respecting the traditional Senegalese Wolof weaving style whilst incorporating contemporary designs and colours. The baskets are created using the traditional Senegalese weaving style whilst incorporating contemporary designs and styles.

The whole Alibaba range from the laundry baskets through to the baby baba basket are a lovely feature for any bedroom, bathroom, landing or hallway. artisanne.co.uk

BISLEY ’s MultiDrawer’s clean, simple

Bauhaus-like styling has set the cabinet in good stead to become an icon in storage design. Various sizes mean the MultiDrawer suits all environments, from the office to the home. MultiDrawers are the ideal solution for organised home storage: no matter what you need to store, from postage stamps to spanners, there is a MultiDrawer to suit. There are a number of multi-compartment insert trays available for storing small items in an organised and tidy fashion. Available in a large array of colours, the MultiDrawer is a practical and att ractive addition to any home. Label inserts make organisation easy too. bisley.com

USM The success of USM Haller

modular furniture is due to its simple yet ingenious design. From a few simple components a beautiful and practical piece of furniture is built, designed to grow with its environment’s changing needs. Swiss precision gives the furniture strength, versatility and clean lines. USM Haller modular furniture is a design classic that can be reconfigured with your family’s changing needs. A sideboard used for storing toys can evolve into a book shelf perfect for a teenager. The panels can also be changed if the colour scheme of the room changes or you would simply prefer to use the furniture in a different room. usm.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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“Even the most beautiful home can lose its appeal if it lets in unwanted noise”

SAFE &

SOUND For people living in noisy areas, installing Silent Windows can be life-changing. Absolutely investigates Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

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INTERIORS • FOCUS

H

ow many hearts sank when the government gave Heathrow’s third runway the goahead last month?

Households all over the western outskirts of London are already exposed to varying degrees of aircraft noise, and the promise of more planes isn’t appealing to any of them. Living under or near the flightpath can be a serious source of stress, resulting in sleep loss and even leading to possible cardiovascular problems.

But if you don’t want to move, what’s the solution? Even the most beautiful home can soon lose its appeal if it lets in unwanted noise from the world outside. And just as excessive noise can destroy your home life, so a return to tranquility can transform it.

Hugo Carter’s aptly-named Silent Windows can reduce sound levels inside your house by 51dB. This is a company made up of engineers and experts –not double-glazing salesmen – and their offering is unique and progressive. Working with experts from the Institute of Acoustics, they offer the most advanced noise reduction windows. Whether you live on a busy road, by the train tracks, next to noisy neighbours or beneath the flightpath – or are experiencing another kind of persistent noise intrusion – they promise to give you back your nights. Surveyors trained by a team from Southampton Solent University will carry out a detailed noise analysis in order to decide on exactly the right type of glazing for each noise problem.

NOISE: THE FACTS

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Sound is measured in decibels, with every increase of 10dB on the scale equivalent to a 10-fold increase in sound intensity. So if quiet traffic noise is 60dB and loud traffic noise is 70dB, the louder traffic sounds a million times more intense.

•

According to the World Health Organisation, those living with noise pollution of over 55dB are likely to suffer health problems. In London, this affects 1.6 million people.

•

Single-glazed sash windows are capable of a noise reduction of around 25dB while noise reduction glass offers reductions of 35 dB to 51 dB.

•

The optimal internal noise level for a living room or bedroom is around 30 dB. Disturbances from the outside world can take this up to 75 dB.

Noise reduction involves a combination of different elements and the team at Silent Windows has a thorough understanding of it – and this is why they are the experts of choice for several five star hotel groups, including Radisson. CEO Jacob Figura explains: "Early on we realised that if we wanted to truly transform people’s lives through their living environments, we needed to develop more deeply our fascination with, and knowledge of, the ‘science of silence’ – and then apply that expertise to our products and our process."

Installing silent windows can be the best investment you make, making your home

comfortable and more sellable too. With the right windows, planes above you at 500 feet may as well be 500 miles away. The Grafton Hotel on Tottenham Court Road recently commissioned 145 windows in the first floor front elevation, and noise levels in the rooms have reduced significantly.

Silent Windows offers doors, bi-fold doors and French Windows too for a full soundproof solution, even for homes in conservation areas or which are Grade II listed. They will devise a bespoke solution for your individual problem and deliver windows that are beautiful as well as functional. silentwindows.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION

JET SET OLLI ELLA

For nomads and homebodies alike, these Seeya suitcases are kid-sized and cabin-ready. They even come with a way to secure a favourite cuddly. When not used for travel, they double-up as vintage-style trunks. £59; folkinteriors.co.uk

Small Talk: Suffragettes and Gucci for tots 85 · Education 87 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Tallulah joined MPW having Tallulah joined MPW having Tallulah joined MPW having Tallulah joined MPW having Tallulah Tallulahjoined joinedMPW MPW having having missed her target grades. missed her target grades. missed her target grades. missed her target grades. missed missed her her target target grades. grades.

She achieved A*A* in her She achieved A*A* her She achieved A*A* inin her She achieved A*A* in her She Sheachieved achievedA*A* A*A*inin her her A A levels and secured a place levels and secured aplace place Alevels levels and secured aplace AA and secured aa Alevels levels and and secured secured aplace place at at the University of Cambridge. the University Cambridge. atthe the University ofof Cambridge. at University ofof Cambridge. at atthe the University University of Cambridge.

Cambridge.

Don’t settle for Don’t settle for Don’t settle for Don’t settle Don’t settlefor for second best. second best. second best. second secondbest. best.

A level Retakes level Retakes AA level Retakes AA level A level levelRetakes Retakes Retakes

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We will help you achieve the grades for your first choice university.

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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES P R O D U CT R EV I EW

Jersey Royal C L AU D E A N D C O A home-grown unisex clothing brand aimed at “little individuals”, Claude and Co’s collection eschews seasonal trends in favour of timeless and durable trans-seasonal designs. The online shop also stocks an eclectic mix of interior design products, toys and gifts from independent brands. claudeandco.co.uk

SMALL TALK Gucci for tots, Suffragettes stories and a special silicone toothbrush

ITALIAN JOB GUCCI

The world’s most exciting design house teams up with the web’s premier luxury fashion store for a shop-in-shop devoted to the inaugural Gucci childrenswear collection. For six weeks from 16 July, discover unique styles for babies and kids up to 12.

net-a-porter.com

FOREO ISSA MINI

F

oreo's specially designed electric toothbrush for children is bound to win over even the most reluctant brushers. The candy-coloured Issa Mini 2 is satisfyingly soft to hold and feels substantial yet totally manageable in tiny hands. Made entirely from quickdrying and non-porous silicone, this brush holds on to far less bacteria than regular nylon brushes, while clever touches include a smiley face light that shines when the requisite two minutes' brush time is reached, and which also comes on automatically to alert parents when the brush has remained unused for 12 hours. Our nine year-old reviewer was very impressed with her mango-coloured brush – and especially delighted to fi nd it robust when droppen onto the floor too. With one hour's charge said to last more than 200 days, this is a low-maintenance product as well as a fun one. £99.

foreo.com

NANNY STATE

M A RY P O P P I N S

To celebrate the publication of five new editions of timeless classics by PL Travers featuring everbody's favourite magical nanny, Aqua Shard has devised a play afternoon tea menu that continues until next April. harpercollins.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

GIRL POWER S U F F R AG E T T E

This new book tells the story of the fight for the first women to get the vote 100 years ago in a beautifully illustrated volume designed for ages 12 plus. Davd Roberts' writing and arwork is full of detail and charm. £18.99 panmacmillan.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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DISCOVERMORE

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

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

Currently recruiting into the Sixth Form with a new Sixth Form Centre opening in 2017.

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

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@kewhouseschool

25/06/2018 16:06

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Education for all The Head of Latymer Upper on his drive to make his school an engine of social mobility B y DAV I D G O O D H E W

A

t first glance it might strike the onlooker as an unlikely match.

I was born into a working class background in a tower block opposite Grenfell and educated at my local comprehensive.

I now head up one of the country’s top co-ed independent schools – Latymer Upper School. But look more closely and the connection becomes clearer. I do indeed have my roots firmly and proudly in a working class family, but I progressed from a secondary school in Hammersmith to read Classics at Oxford University – the first member

of my family to take A-Levels or go to university. From there I taught in some of the UK’s most prestigious learning institutions. Education, in my case, has been the key to social mobility and I have pretty firm views on the role independent schools can play in improving the life chances of children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Of course Latymer is no ordinary independent school. It prides itself on being one of Britain’s leading bursary schools, with the majority of its means-tested bursary pupils studying at Latymer on a completely free place. My plan is to go further – to offer a life-changing education to more children who show ability and

“We aim to be able to offer one in four pupils a means-tested bursary by 2024”

DAVID GOODHEW WITH LATYMER STUDENTS

potential, regardless of their financial circumstances. Independent schools should be engines of, rather than obstacles to, social mobility. To that end I’ve recently launched Inspiring Minds, Latymer’s most ambitious bursary campaign to date. The aim of the campaign is to raise enough funds to be able to offer one in four pupils a means-tested bursary to Latymer by 2024 - its governing foundation’s 400th anniversary.

I believe the campaign is the most effective way in which our institution can encourage social mobility, offering 300 local children from backgrounds as modest as mine, access to a transformative education.

The benefits of a socially diverse school are felt by all pupils, be they fee paying or those on bursaries; a school in which children study alongside classmates from diverse backgrounds, who have different perspectives on life, offers the most enriched intellectual environment in which to learn. As is often the case with social mobility, there is also a ripple effect. The first person in a family to benefit, is unlikely to become the last. The impact is felt by the next generation with the children and grandchildren of many of the Latymerians who were first in their families to become professionals, also attending higher education.

The £40m that we hope to raise from the Inspiring Minds bursary campaign is needed for the longterm funding of bursaries. Unlike some public schools, which have large endowments, or independent schools with City Guilds to fund their bursaries, Latymer has no such resource and has to raise the money needed from scratch. We aim to replenish Edward Latymer’s endowment fund with £20m of the money raised, protecting our bursary provision generations of children to come.

It’s a huge challenge, but Latymer has a fantastic community of pupils, staff, parents and alumni. The fundraising has begun in earnest - from cake sales to gala dinners and from swimathons to river runs, everyone is doing their bit towards the campaign.

If we meet our target, a quarter of our pupils will have a means-tested bursary, meaning Latymer will become one of the most inclusive independent schools in the country.

There is cause for hope. This month we welcome our new Year 7 pupils, 18% of whom are in receipt of a bursary - with 175 bursary pupils across the school. To see these children flourish and excel in the wider world is one step towards smashing the class glass ceiling.

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Summer

READ IN G Baby yoga from Britain’s best-loved DJ, how to pick the right pup and more heartwarming children’s books for August

By GEORGIA MCVEIGH

BENDY BABIES YOGA BABIES

By Fearne Cotton

Fearne Cotton is well known for her Radio 1 slot, but of late she’s taken a step back from the public eye and focussed instead on mental health. Her new Yoga Babies book is a great and fun way for both mamas and babies to unwind after a long day. £6.99; penguinrandomhouse.co.uk

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PLATYPUS PARTY THIS ZOO IS NOT FOR YOU

By Ross Collins

None of the animals want poor Platypus to join their zoo – he’s too bland for the chameleons, and not graceful enough for the flamingos.

But he really came to the zoo to leave behind an invitation to a party on his “platybus”... £11.99 nosycrow.com

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KIDS & EDUCATION • BOOKS

COLOUR CENTRIC THE BIG BOOK OF BLUE

By Yuval Zommer

The world of fish just got even more fantastical. Yuval Zommer’s chatty book features his quirky illustrations – from shimmery to slippery. Discover the deep blue with fun facts and encounter sea turtles, whales, sharks, rays and seahorses, plus much more. £12.95; templarco.co.uk

BOREDOM BE GONE THE WORLD OF DAVID WALLIAMS: BOOK OF STUFF

By David Walliams

DOG DAYS PICKING PICKLE

By Polly Faber, illustrated by Clara Vulliamy

Featuring all your favourite characters from David Walliams’ books, this hilariously funny new tome from Walliams has new illustrations, fun facts in his unique style and a whole new comic strip featuring a whole new character, Raj. £9.99; harpercollins.co.uk

Choosing the right pup is a lifechanging event, and as the longeststanding resident of the dog home, Pickle is used to seeing his friends leave him behind. Will Hungry Harvey or Dumpling find a home?

Perhaps it’s Pickle’s turn! £11.99 pavilionbooks.com

BEACH BABES

BUNNY POISE

PIP AND POSY

By Axel Scheffler

BALLET BUNNIES

By Lucy Freegard

From critically acclaimed artist Axel Scheffler comes the adventures of Pip and Posy, who are having a lovely day at the seaside. While Posy has a nap, Zac comes to play with Pip – but Posy is sad that Pip seems more interested in playing with Zac than her... £6.99; nosycrow.com

Betty loves to dance. She can perform beautifully in front of her family, but once she goes to a dance class she loses all her confidence and it seems like she’s not going to be able to do the end-of-term show. Will she be able to find her balance in time? £6.99; pavilionbooks.com

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

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LIVE UNFORGETTABLE WALDORF ASTORIA DUBAI PALM JUMEIRAH. EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES IN AN ICONIC DESTINATION.

East Crescent Road, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai UAE | +(971) 4 818 2222 | dxbpd.reservations@waldorfastoria.com | waldorfastoria.com/dubai

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TRAVEL

ISLAND HOPPING MALDIVES We soak up the sun and snorkel with turtles on the trip of a lifetime to three of Anantara's most luxurious Maldivian properties. anantara.com

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

I Beyond the Beach Renowned honeymoon hotspot the Maldives can be much more than a fly and flop destination. Absolutely discovers the islands’ adventurous side

By HELEN BROWN

was convinced that the Maldives wouldn’t be for me. Lusted after by honeymooners and swooned over on Instagram, there is no doubt that this is one of the world’s most luxurious and sophisticated destinations. But while I could endlessly admire photographs of azure water, ocean swings and coconut-strewn sands, I felt sure that the expanse of blue beauty and nothing else would be tiresome. Boring even. A good book can occupy a day or two, a snorkel a few hours. How on earth do you fill your days marooned on an expanse of glistening white sand? I envisaged hours spent staring longingly out at a boundless blue horizon. But in reality, a foray around three of Anatara’s most illustrious Maldivian properties turned out to prove me and my preconceptions entirely wrong.

Dhigu, Veli, and Naladhu Private Island are in the South Malé atoll, an easy 40-minute water transfer from Malé airport.

Each is distinct in character and the three put together offer a wealth of amenities far greater than the typical Maldivian getaway.

First stop: Dhigu, a family-friendly resort with beach hammocks, pristine sand and the aforementioned ocean swings. Essentially, a social media jackpot. Comprising 110 villas and suites, guests can choose to be poised over the water or tucked away on the beach.

I settle effortlessly into an over-water suite complete with private sundeck, outdoor shower and access to the balmy Indian Ocean below. When you’re not splashing around in the sea, you can admire its crystal clarity and ocean life from the freestanding bathtub. Framed by a wall-to-wall, floor-toceiling window, it’s one of the best spots to watch the sun go down over the lagoon.

If you can drag yourself away from your little luxurious home-from-home, an overwhelming selection of watersports and leisure activities is available to guests of all three properties. On the first day we A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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DISCOVER OZEN BY ATMOSPHERE AT MAADHOO The stunning OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo is a lifestyle luxury five star resort located on Maadhoo Island, just 35km south of the capital, Male. The resort features 90 luxurious standalone villas, designed in a contemporary style with Maldivian Island influences.

The Atmosphere Indulgence plan leaves nothing to be desired, from the moment you arrive at the resort you will be spoiled. With the finest cuisine, accompanied by the finest drinks on offer throughout your stay. The resorts incredible underwater restaurant, M6m is a must visit, offering modern seafood cuisine with stunning underwater views.

Guests can enjoy a wide choice of activities during their stay, with the resort offering a complimentary dive, wide range of water sports and state-of-the-art gym, as well as professional spa facilities and complimentary treatments to choose from, all included in your stay.

10 Nights all inclusive, staying in an Earth Villa from ÂŁ4,199 per person Includes flights with Emirates travelling during September 2018

Call 0208 329 2678 or visit www.letsgo2.com Prices are per person based on two people sharing. Various departure dates during september 2018. Subject to availability. For full T&Cs visit letsgo2.com. Prices correct as of 24/07/18.

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24/07/2018 16:24

TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

are whisked away to snorkel with turtles, the next we whip up an array of Maldivian dishes in a Spice Spoons cooking class and we each spend a blissful 60 minutes in the Balance Wellness spa on day three. In between, I get a private tennis lesson, snorkel around the villas, hire a kayak and go on a sunset cruise around the lagoon. On top of this, there is sailing, paddle boarding, kite surfing, yoga, a gym, cycling, coral rehabilitation programmes, excursions to Malé and beach games. And that’s before you even mention diving, for which the Maldives is fast becoming one of the world’s most respected spots. The stunning beaches and turquoise waters are nothing compared to the tropical life teeming beneath the surface.

So you see there really is no room for boredom. We certainly are hard-pushed to fit it all in.

The second half of the trip is spent in one of just 20 Colonial-style houses on Naladhu Private Island. Each is spectacularly spacious and comes with a private swimming pool and ocean-front deck with swinging day bed. There's also an al fresco bathing pavilion with sunken tub, outdoor waterfall shower and steam room. Naladhu guests are appointed a House Master who will ensure each trip is absolutely perfect. From booking a dhoni boat to serving you breakfast besides the sea, the friendly and experienced staff really can’t do enough.

It’s here, in this cavernous villa with customised wine cellar, iPad, iPod, Bose surround-sound system and personal library, that I appreciate the Maldives for the honeymoon hotspot that it is. With exceptional in-room dining, enough outdoor space for a family of four and a House Master on speed-dial, you could easily not see another soul on the island for the entirety of your trip.

Quite the island hideaway.

The Living Room is Naladhu's only restaurant. It’s set on the beach and serves modern fusion cuisine. On the menu you’ll find an array of international dishes including Maldivian tuna tartar, pan-seared foie gras and Wagyu beef. Breakfast is a la carte and can be enjoyed all-day long. Those looking to venture out can head over to Veli and Dhigu where there are nine more restaurants and bars offering a multitude of cuisines including Thai, Italian and Maldivian.

Culinary highlights from the trip include Japanese restaurant Origami where our dinner is sliced, sizzled and served by an energetic chef at a table-side teppanyaki grill; Thai restaurant Baan Huraa which is set within a traditional teak house on stilts and has a tantalising

menu of regional small plates designed to be shared; and dinner on a floating platform in the middle of the sea.

Yes, the sea. This comes courtesy of Anantara’s Dining

by Design facility which enables guests to conjure up the ultimate private dining experience. Wagyu steak in a candlelit coconut grove? Not a problem. A gourmet picnic for two on a dhoni? Done. Maldivian tuna on the deserted seashore? Easy. Seriously, no matter how wild and wonderful the concept, they can make it happen.

Suspended on a floating deck, framed with white chiffon curtains and open to the stars, our table floats ethereally above the fishes.

As with the leisure activities, we run out of days before we get round to sampling the full culinary offering, which invalidates all presumptions I’d had of the Maldives.

It really can be more than a fly-and-flop destination.

Though of course if your ideal holiday involves nothing more strenuous than lifting a Pina Colada to the lips, it’s a dream destination. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip for all types of traveller. I leave feeling like there aren’t enough hours in the day; though I do find time to squeeze in a snap on the sea swing. Whether you're the type for sunrise snorkelling or you're there to prop up the pool bar, the Maldives will be for you.

N I G H T LY R AT E S JUNE 2018 Veli – approx £362 per night on HB basis Dhigu – approx £378 per night on HB basis Naladhu – approx £610 per night on BB basis

JANUARY 2019 Veli – approx £584 per night on HB basis Dhigu – approx £591 per night on HB basis Naladhu – approx £840 per night on BB basis For more information visit anantara.com

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

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The TEMPUR® Collection Mattresses | Pillows | Beds Department Store

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CREATORS OF THE WORLD’S MOST DESIRABLE FIREPLACES Our OUTDOOR GAS BURNERS are available in numerous sizes with a large glamorous flame for all of your outdoor heating needs.

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04/04/2018 15:35

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THE FOOD

WHAT TO DO

L

C

T

eeds Castle in Kent is often called the 'loveliest castle in the world'. Listed in the Domesday Book, this castle has been a Norman stronghold, a royal residence and a royal palace.

Its situatation is stunning, set on two islands in a vast lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens. The fully furnished rooms come in either modern or Tudor style, each with outstanding attention to detail.

GLAMPING

S

taying overnight in this beautiful setting and strolling around the castle grounds and gardens when the estate is closed to the general public feels very relaxed. The Medieval-style canvas tents are stylish and luxurious, with four poster beds and crisp cotton bedding.

Outside dining and BBQ facilities with fire pits added a little adventure for the children. A choice of breakfast delivered in a hamper meant the children were fed and ready for the day ahead. Great facilities and plenty of room, this felt a world away from a simple camping weekend.

astle View Restaurant is a converted 17th century barn with a terrace. Tables can be reserved for dinner and offer unrivalled views of the castle lit at night.

The menu features daily specials which showcase the head chef’s creativity and flair.

The restaurant felt intimate with good quality, simple food, well prepared and presented.

Children were welcome in the evening with a full children's menu, which meant eating out later was also an option.

he grounds are filled with activities and surprises to keep both children and adults entertained. Highlights are the maze, falconry, boat and train rides. The large grounds mean there is plenty of space for further exploration. Take to the water in a punt around the moat. You will get an astounding close-up view of parts of the castle unseen from land, and your guide will provide you with all the history you need to know.

weekend

THE CASTLE

DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY

GLAMPING AT LEEDS CASTLE KENT

By PHIL COUZENS

One night’s glamping is £150.00 for two adults.

Children are £25 per child, per night LEEDS CASTLE Maidstone ME17 1PL leeds-castle.com

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

Village PEOPLE How Sardinia’s Forte Village won over a slightly reluctant resort newbie

I

t isn’t often that you are deposited at your lodgings by golf buggy. But then it’s not often that your hotel room is a half-mile journey from reception. And so it is that, packed to the gunnels with bags and buggies, we arrive like ramshackle travellers disembarking from an over-stuffed charabanc and are shown into our room at the Le Dune, one of seven hotels at Sardinia’s world-famous Forte Village resort. And immediately, this trio of tightly coiled travellers begins to unwind – fast.

Le Dune is nominally a hotel, but each room is in fact its own standalone villa. On turning the key to ours, several things strike us: firstly, coolly lolling in an ice bucket is a half bottle of champagne (the coils slacken a degree further), as well as the most lavish platter of fruit – at its centre an entire pineapple – we’ve ever seen.

Next, our eyes roam to the sheer size of the room (many London flats are smaller), the

By NANCY ALSOP

calming sea green of the walls, the huge windows framing views of tropical plants – and then, the piece de resistance – an enormous balcony, perfect both for imbibing said champagne, and for our toddler to amuse herself by running in circles for hours. Back inside, the bathroom has a huge walk-in shower, as well as a swimming poollike bath – a good spot to relax and listen to the warm-up of whichever band is playing the piazza that evening – and is stocked with divine Aqua Di Parma products. It is, in short, sublime. The temptation would be to do little but order room service and lounge about in fluffy white towels – but that would be to miss the point of Forte Village.

That it calls itself a village is no exaggeration, and if we’re splitting hairs, actually underplays its scale (few hamlets boast 21 restaurants). A half-hour's drive south of Cagliari – the island’s ancient capital, itself well worth a night or two to explore the buzzing restaurant scene A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HELPING NATURE LOOK STYLISH

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‘One school, two buildings, great teaching, and tip top facilities.’ The Good Schools Guide The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village.

We identify and nurture each girl’s unique academic, creative and sporting skills in a caring and supportive community.

For further details and to book a school visit, contact Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Registered Charity No. 271012

We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+.

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

Calling itself a village underplays its scale – few hamlets can boast 21 restaurants

and to scale its vertiginous and pretty medieval cobbled streets – and you reach Forte Village. Despite having read glowing reviews, as we cross the threshold of this vast contained world, it’s hard to know quite what to expect. An archway leads new villagers off the main road through to reception, where dozens of people mill about waiting for their own golf buggy to deliver them to one of the seven hotels – all of varying levels of luxury. But as soon as you depart reception and zip through the verdant grounds to your room, it becomes clear why this place is, again and again, named the best resort on the planet by the World Travel Awards (there is even a trophy room where the laudatory gongs are proudly lined up). For despite the huge number of guests – so apparent at reception – once into the resort proper, there is never any sense of crowding, a feat given that there is roughly one member of staff per two guests, of which typically there are 1500 in residence. This is, perhaps, thanks to the immaculately maintained lush pathways that snake though all 55 acres of Forte Village, all copiously planted and maintained beautifully: unless you’re by a pool, you just don’t clap eyes on more than handful of people at a time. And since most people get about on the handily provided bicycles, they’re gone before you’ve really clocked them.

Having not once considered a resort holiday until we had a child, we worried that there might be an element of organised fun; of a Disneyland on the Med, with grinning guests merrily joining conga lines. Resorts such as those must and likely do exist, but Forte Village is not one of them. Indeed, its beauty lies precisely in forcing nothing at all upon its guests; it is entirely what you make it. There are hundred of activities on offer, so the energetic can go diving, join academies to be taught by sporting legends or attend baby discos at night (yes, really),

while others might choose instead to spend their days floating into a transcendent state of relaxation at the extraordinary thalassotherapy spa (more of which later).

Since our child is just two, The Children’s Wonderland soon becomes part of our daily routine; she would happily spend her entire holiday running in and out of the miniature 1950s Americana village, complete with diner, garage and grocery store – but that would be to neglect having enough time to squeal with delight at the children’s water park (her), or lounging by the swimming pool (us).

Another part of our quickly adopted routine is the bustling pizzeria, which serves up fantastic pizzas with great pillowy charred crusts at lunchtime; a world of our own we may be in, but this is still Italy – the pizza had better be good. It’s a beachside buzzy place, with a simple menu that hits the spot for kids and adults alike (this guests pay for, while breakfasts and dinners are included). And this is where Forte Village really scores. While it somehow manages to swerve having a soundtrack of screaming kids, it is endlessly child-friendly. Here, that hot-under-the-collar stress-sweat inducing sensation when your baby goes bonkers in a less than toddler-friendly environment is dispensed with, because children are made to feel as welcome as adults, the peerless staff fussing over and joking with them so that parents can breathe easy. And so

it is too at Forte Village’s fine-dining options. Le Dune’s in-house restaurant is one-such, it’s exemplary seafood so fresh it could have leapt from the glistening Mediterranean that supplies the resplendent view here.

But our ultimate holiday highlight is found at the Michelin-starred Belvedere, the aptly titled restaurant at the neighbouring hotel of the same name (Le Dune has five-stars; its guests can dine freely at the other hotels of the same star rating). The views from the secluded balcony of the mountains behind are sublime, as are chef Antonello Arrus’ local dishes which underline that real skill lies in simplicity.

This place is so romantic that, as the waiters subtly dance attendance, you could imagine a Lady and the Trampstyle spaghetti kiss under a starry sky while an accordion plays in the background.

If all the dining, swimming and entertaining of your children hasn’t quite slackened those coils, do stop in at the thalassotherapy spa, where relaxation is taken exceptionally seriously (there is even a private mini spa for A-listers and the especially well-heeled). A course of six seawater baths with varying degrees of salt concentration is the result of 20 years' research. As one who, generally, would prefer to be doing something than floating about, I can be dismissive of spas. Not this one. This is something beyond any luxury experience hitherto, and the feeling of wellbeing is exquisite and unparalleled.

It sums up, in microcosm, the whole of Forte Village.

F O R T E V I L L AG E , S A R D I N I A Rooms from €630 per night, based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Bungalow on half-board basis, including VAT and service charge. Children under 2 stay free. For further information and for reservations, please visitfortevillageresort.com or call +39 070 921 8818

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MADE IN GERMANY TO MEET YOUR DESIGN NEEDS Built in Kitchen Specialist

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Kitchen Revolutions Ltd 580 Kingston Road, Wimbledon SW20 8DR T 020 3302 6266 E info@kitchenrevolutions.co.uk W www.kitchenrevolutions.co.uk WE ARE OPEN Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm | Sun 11am - 4pm

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PROPERTY Knight Frank 108 Pedder: Lawrie Park Place 110 Living the Dream 112

YORK MANSIONS SW11

ÂŁ3,000,000

ith five double bedrooms and more than 2,000 square feet of space, this is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the largest and lightest lateral homes available in Battersea.

This park-facing, top floor flat with lift access has been newly refurbished to an exceptionally high standard. With 17 external windows, this flat is one of the lightest and sunniest properties on the sought after Prince of Wales Drive.

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KNIGHT FRANK Battersea 020 8033 9673 knightfrank.co.uk

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The home with entertaining space.

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Coombe Ridings, Kingston KT2 • Open-plan living with great light throughout • Master bedroom suite with his and hers dressing rooms • Beautiful and spacious landscaped garden

Coombe Ridings is wonderfully located close to Wimbledon, Richmond, Richmond Park, Kingston upon Thames and the A3 with the area offering a wide range of recreational activities.

Our Wimbledon expert, Dominic Pasqua, looks forward to helping you. dominic.pasqua@knightfrank.com 020 8115 9703 07795 454022

knightfrank.co.uk

Guide price £4,750,000

Freehold

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

The flat with the high ceilings.

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York Mansions, Battersea SW11 • Next to Battersea Park in a portered Victorian mansion block • French doors leading out to the private garden • Bay fronted double reception A truly unique property well located for King's Road, Chelsea and Sloane Square station. Waterloo station as well as Victoria station can be reached within 15 minutes. There are also regular bus services close by and a range of local shops, restaurants and bars. All times and distances are approximate.

Guide price £1,650,000

Share of freehold

Our Battersea expert, Kris Ericsson, looks forward to helping you. kris.ericsson@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5936 07717 346 334

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

The flat with the park views.

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Norfolk Mansions, SW11 • Excellent entertaining space with an abundance of natural light • Private balcony • Approximately 108 sq m (1,175 sq ft) Norfolk Mansion is located along the well-known Price of Wales Drive, just off Battersea Park. The closest train station is Battersea Park taking you straight into Victoria Station (National Rail).

Our Battersea expert, Jack Alisiroglu, looks forward to helping you. jack.alisiroglu@knightfrank.com 020 8115 2327 0777 3258644

knightfrank.co.uk

Guide price £825 per week

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

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 Ombudsman Services: Property.

Connecting people & property, perfectly.

The Library Building, Clapham SW4 2

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• Spacious open plan kitchen reception • Naturally lit throughout • Located in the heart of Clapham 6th floor apartment featuring large windows providing exceptional far reaching London views.

Guide price £500 per week Available unfurnished

alice.finchnoyes@knightfrank.com 020 3542 3526

Lessar Avenue, Clapham SW4 4

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• Original period features throughout • Floor to ceiling bi folding doors • Set on a fantastic tree-lined avenue Beautifully decorated family home ideally located in the desirable Abbeville Village.

Guide price £1,100 per week Available unfurnished

harry.anthony@knightfrank.com 020 3542 3526

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 Ombudsman Services: Property.

PRIME PROPERTY Highbury Road, Wimbledon SW19 Estate Agent: Knight Frank, Wimbledon

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truly stunning house on one of Wimbledon Village's most sought after roads. Highbury Road is considered one of the finest addresses, being a quiet road near the Village High Street and Common as well as to the Mainline and Tube stations in Wimbledon Town. The seven bedroom house of 6740 sq ft was built in 2009

by Lifestyle Projects - the pre-eminent

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developer in Wimbledon. It is beautifully presented and laid out and is one of the very best we have seen.

This wonderful house sits behind electronically operated double security gates with ample off-street parking and an integral garage. On the ground floor the house includes a spacious hallway, a formal drawing room, a study, a cloakroom and a fabulous kitchen/dining/family room which goes across the entire width of the house. The kitchen is fully equipped with a

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PROPERTY • PRIME FOCUS

range of bespoke units and appliances and the whole room looks out onto the garden which is accessed by large sliding glass doors. The lower ground floor is mainly devoted to both leisure and secondary accommodation and comprises a spacious media and games room, a gymnasium, cloakroom, two bedrooms, both with ensuite shower rooms, the utility room, the plant room and a large store room. On the first floor is the wonderfully generous master bedroom suite complete with a dressing room and ensuite bathroom.

There are two further bedrooms and a

“This wonderful house sits behind electronically operated double security gates with ample off-street parking”

family bathroom on this floor. On the second floor, there are two further large bedrooms (one with an ensuite shower room) and another family bathroom. To the rear of the house is a large entertaining terrace and a very attractively landscaped garden, mainly laid to lawn with mature shrub and flower borders.

For more information on our properties contact Knight Frank Wimbledon on 020 8115 9703 or dominic.pasqua@knightfrank.com or visit knightfrank.co.uk

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

A VISIT TO PISSARRO’S SYDENHAM Family Homes in Sydenham

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iving in Fulham is not fun anymore! The cranes are everywhere, glowing red in the sky at night, construction lorries thunder through and the large Chelsea tractors with their blacked out windows escaping from the sky-high prices in Knightsbridge, are infiltrating this once peaceful backwater. Time to move, but where to go?

My star sign is Virgo and I analyse and research everything, comparing travel and value. Hours were spent on the property portals and it took me a while to travel in cyberspace around the London Boroughs. Inspiration came from a strange source, an exhibition of impressionist paintings showed Camille Pissarro’s paintings of Sydenham. It looked calm and green but had it changed in 100 years, would it be full of tower blocks and

the magic destroyed? A trip and a coffee at Blue Mountain Café showed that Sydenham had settled into its skin and was full of the traditional values, which had inspired the painter all those years ago. I was hooked.

Leaving my natural habitat of the Kings Road would be difficult. A chat to the local and knowledgeable estate agents in Pedder I discovered that the best location in Sydenham is the Lawrie Park area and it was here, tucked away on a mature site with a tennis club around the corner, that I found the gated development of family homes by Kitewood.

The train journey to Penge West was short and sweet, a pleasant local station and vibrant community raised my spirits. A brisk walk counting my steps on my Fitbit had me breathing the clean, fresh air and absorbing the atmosphere of calm. It was just like living in a village yet so close to London.

“I discovered that the best location in Sydenham is the Lawrie Park area” Unlike other developments, where clever photographs mask truly awful homes, this was understated and did not disappoint. Traditional style homes are being created on a well-designed established site using traditional building methods and warm yellow bricks. There are not rows of identical homes but a mix to suit different requirements and pockets. The show house gave an indication of the quality of the fittings used throughout the houses.

Without a doubt my favourite house was the Victoria. Surrounded by gardens, this house sits comfortably in its plot with a wellplanned 2207sq ft interior footprint.

It was just one of two houses with their own garage. Great space on the ground floor which opens onto the garden creating a superb family or entertaining space. The first floor offers bedrooms with fitted wardrobes and a flexible child’s bedroom or study, and the second floor has been used for two master suites both with ensuite bathrooms and dressing room, a hugely important feature for me.

For more information, please contact: waleed@pedderproperty.com or call 020 8001 1454 and view online at www.pedderproperty.com

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Lawr ie Park Place

Lawrie Park Place

Lawrie Park Crescent, Sydenham, SE26 6HH

Lawriedevelopment Park Crescent, Sydenham, SE26 four and five bedroom A gated, boutique of 27 contemporary houses close to Crystal Palace Park.

PRICES £1,095,0000 A gated, boutique development of 27FROM contemporary four and five bedroom _ SHOW HOME OPENto 5 DAYS A WEEK THUR-MON houses close Crystal Palace Park. 10AM - 5PM

ASSISTED MOVE* PRICES FROM £1,095,000

TAKE THE HASSLE-FREE ROUTE TO SELLING YOUR EXISTING PROPERTY WITH ASSISTED MOVE AND WE’LL EVEN PAY YOUR AGENT’S FEES.

For more pleaseplease contact Waleed Suilman Forinformation more information contact Waleed Suilman T: 020 T: 8001 W: www.lawrieparkplace.co.uk 0201454 8001E: newhomes@pedderproperty.com 1454 E: newhomes@pedderproperty.com W: www.lawrieparkplace.co.uk A D E VELO PM ENT BY

* Terms and conditions apply for both

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LIVING THE

DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market

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BRASSEY SQUARE SW 1 1 , ÂŁ61 5,00 0

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n the ground floor of a luxury Victorian cottage near Clapham Junction, this bright and spacious two bedroom apartment has been renovated throughout to create modern, stylish interiors. Bi-folding doors from the open-plan kitchen and living room lead to a spacious private rear garden. The property's large open space and abundance of natural lighting make it perfect for entertaining.

FEATHERSTONE LEIGH Battersea, 020 7228 2278 featherstoneleigh.co.uk

THE CHASE

SW 4 , ÂŁ1,795,000

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his Victorian terrace house has been beautifully designed, combining period charm with a modern, stylish finish. Arranged over four floors, the property offers excellent entertaining space with two reception rooms, an eat-in open-plan kitchen and a landscaped garden. Situated on a prime Clapham road, it is conveniently close to Clapham Old Town which has a wealth of cafes, shops and restaurants.

KNIGHT FRANK Clapham, 020 8115 4912 knightfrank.co.uk 1

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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET

ELSYNGE ROAD

SW 1 8 , £ 2 ,9 5 0,0 0 0

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KNIGHT FRANK

FEATHERSTONE LEIGH

Wandsworth, 020 8682 7768 knightfrank.co.uk

Battersea, 020 7228 2278 featherstoneleigh.co.uk

spectacular fivebedroom detached Victorian house with over 2,900 sq.ft. of living space.

Built for the Great Exhibition of 1850 with off street parking and a 72ft garden. The house is arranged across four floors and has recently been stylishly refurbished by the current owners to create a contemporary home. Located near transport links to Victoria and Waterloo.

THORNTON PLACE

QUEENSTOWN ROAD aking up the two upper floors of a Victorian terraced house, this stunning duplex apartment offers a spacious private terrace and three luxury bedrooms.

Parquet flooring and pitched ceilings add character to the home, making it truly unique.

This property is usefully located just an eight minute walk from Queenstown Road train station, providing transport to Waterloo.

SW 4 , £ 1 , 4 0 0,0 0 0

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beautiful bright and airy two bedroom splitlevel apartment.

The living space is arranged over the fifth and sixth floor of this historic Grade II listed building, overlooking Clapham Common. The flat comprises of two double bedrooms, one with a large walk-in wardrobe, two luxury bathrooms, guest WC, spectacular reception room with vaulted ceilings and a private roof terrace.

THIS VICTORIAN TERRACE HOUSE HAS BEEN BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED, COMBINING PERIOD CHARM WITH A MODERN, STYLISH FINISH

KFH

Clapham, 020 3792 4491 www.kfh.co.uk

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LATCHMERE ROAD, BATTERSEA This expertly designed and fully extended period house is positioned conveniently on Latchmere Road between Battersea Park and Clapham Junction. The bespoke design is evident throughout the property. EPC = D

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ASKING PRICE

£1,225,000 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278

ORDISH APARTMENTS, BATTERSEA Beautiful modern three bedroom family home located just off Lavender Hill. The property has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, WC, large kitchen dining and separate reception.

EPC = B

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ASKING PRICE

£735,000 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278

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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

TURNCHAPEL MEWS, BATTERSEA An exceptionally remodelled and redeveloped four double bedroom mews house. Featuring a spacious reception room with period features, wooden flooring and a fully equipped kitchen.

Available Immediately. EPC = B

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GUIDE PRICE

£4,250 PCM BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278

MILLINERS HOUSE, BATTERSEA A newly decorated two double bedroom apartment in the popular Riverside Quarter Development.

Comprises a fantastic large reception room with a modern and open plan kitchen. Available Immediately. EPC = C

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£2,150 PCM BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278

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