The London Magazine September 2023

‘Camilah’

A rare Australian Argyle Pink Diamond™ is the centrepiece of this unique creation by Calleija, London’s only authorised Argyle Pink Diamonds Icon Partner™, located in e Royal Arcade, Mayfair. With the mine now closed these incredible diamonds are more collectable than ever before.

CONTENTS

15 THE WISHLIST September concerts, exhibitions and restaurant openings

19 HARD WEARING Build a forever wardrobe filled with durable designs

20 LIVE WELL LONDON Health, beauty and wellbeing tips, plus product picks

22 FIRST LONDON HOME Co-founder of fashion label RIXO, Orla McCloskey talks circular fashion and London life

26 MIND THE SCRAPS From reclaimed fabric to vegan materials, the fashion industry is doing its part for the planet

29 CLEAN LIVING Eco-conscious city dwellers are retrofitting period properties, Alexandra Goss discovers

35 BEHIND THE GREEN Interiors experts tell Arabella Youens how to refresh the home with a clear conscience

45 ETERNALLY YOURS Handmade and ethical homeware that’s built to last

47 WELL MADE What to expect from the 21st edition of London Design Festival

48 A FAIR MEAL The capital’s leading ethically-sourced and waste-free eateries

50 GO SLOW The UK's ultimate responsible-luxury holiday retreats

53 FUTURE-PROOFED Laura Sutherland puts the spotlight on sustainably-minded schools

56 VILLAGE LONDON A social hub surrounded by greenery, Highgate’s eclectic feel has enduring appeal

60 PROPERTY NEWS Zoe Dare Hall considers the possibility of a market chill

62 ANNE ASHWORTH A look back at the capital’s centuries-long air-quality quest

130 PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

A two-bedroom apartment with Hyde Park on its doorstep is a perfect pad

ON THE 19 45

COVER

Unique Industrial Low Built Villa

Warwick Place, Little Venice W9 Warwick Place Underground Station: 0.1 miles

Secluded by walled gardens, this home is a perfect mix of industrial modern and period features, newly built and interior designed to the highest of standards. Reception hall, reception room, principal bedroom with dressing room, further en suite bedroom, cloakroom, cinema room, utility room, garage, off-street parking, roof terrace, courtyard and garden. Freehold | Council Tax Band = H | EPC = C

3,606 sq ft I Guide £9.75 million

Stephen Lindsay

Savills St John’s Wood

020 3043 3600

slindsay@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

Timeless and Elegant Apartment

South Audley Street, Mayfair W1K Bond Street Underground Station: 0.3 miles

Located in the magnificent development by Luxlo. Open-plan reception/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 24-hour concierge, lift, secure underground parking, access to swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room and hair salon. Leasehold (Lease Expiry 3013) | Peppercorn

Ground Rent | Service Charge £94,213 per annum (reviewed annually) | Council Tax Band = G | EPC = B

2,865 sq ft I Guide £14.75 million

Charles Cutting

Savills Mayfair and St. James’s 020 7578 5107

charles.cutting@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

CAVENDISH AVENUE

ST JOHN’S WOOD, NW8

A rare opportunity to purchase a substantial low built detached residence (802.19 sq m/8,635 sq ft) located in one of London’s most desirable streets in St John’s Wood.

This deceptive property was constructed to an extremely high standard in the style of a Victorian villa some 20 years ago and provides indulgently arranged accommodation featuring 3.5 metre ceiling heights and exceptional entertaining and leisure spaces including a swimming pool with adjoining steam, shower and changing rooms.

Cavendish Avenue runs between Circus Road and Wellington Place at the southern end of St John’s Wood and is thus conveniently located only 300 metres from the extensive high quality retail outlets and restaurants/ cafés of St John’s Wood High Street, 500 metres from St John’s Wood Underground Station (Jubilee Line), 700 metres from The American School in London (ASL) whilst the amenities of both Regent’s Park and Marylebone are less than 500 metres away.

Freehold Joint Sole Selling Agents Guide Price: £15,000,000

Savills St John’s Wood 15 St John’s Wood High Street London NW8 7NG stjohnswoodsales@savills.com 020 3043 3600 savills.co.uk

enquiries@astonchase.com

+44

From the

EDITOR

After a summer of blistering temperatures and forest fi res across southern Europe and North America, climate change has rarely been out of the headlines. Its impact continues to prompt a muchneeded rethink across industries, from food to fashion, interiors to property. And so, in this special edition, we delve into ways in which you can make your London life a little greener. In our pages, you’ll fi nd innovative brands making a di erence: fashion labels and zero-waste restaurants, ethical jewellers and sustainable furniture makers.

We also take a look at the history of the capital’s environmental improvements, from tackling the pea-soupers of the past to ULEZ.

Editorial Editor Anne Cuthbertson

Creative Director Chloë Collyer

Content Editor Tallulah Rushaya

Sub Editor Laura Sutherland

Publishing

Managing Director James Dobson

Chief Financial O cer Vicki Gavin

Publisher Caroline Paton-Philip

Marketing Manager Bret Weekes

Advertising

Group Account Director

Caroline Warrick 020 7349 3792 caroline.warrick@chelseamagazines.com

You can manage your print and digital subscriptions online. Sign up today at www.subscription.co.uk/chelsea/Solo/

The London Magazine is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd, 111 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0DT

Web: www.chelseamagazines.com

Tel: 020 7349 3700

Email: info@chelseamagazines.com

The London Magazine (print) ISSN 1350360X Distributed by Seymour Distribution Ltd. 2 East Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PT Tel: 020 7429 4000 Fax: 020 7429 4001

Production All Points Media.

Printed in England by William Gibbons.

© The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd 2023, part of the Telegraph Media Group. All rights reserved.

Anne Cuthbertson Editor

OUR AGENTS

The London Magazine represents Central London Estate Agents, the capital’s most prestigious and expert property agents. For a list of members, go to thelondonmagazine co.uk/about-us CLEA Ltd Board

Chairman: Lucy Morton, JLL

Directors: Mary Beeton, Hamptons; William Carrington, LonRes; John Ennis, Chestertons; Richard Gutteridge, Savills; Louis Harding, Strutt & Parker; Tim Hyatt, Knight Frank; Mark Pollack, Aston Chase; Peter Wetherell, Wetherell

Company Secretary: Jonathan Perrin

Hand-delivered to properties in London’s top postcodes, five-star hotels and exclusive locations. Distribution enquiries to caroline.paton-philip@chelseamagazines. com. Available on subscription. Published by The Chelsea Magazine Company Ltd on behalf of CLEA Ltd (Central London Estate Agents). CLEA Ltd does not accept any responsibility for editorial or advertising content.

BY EDC 77 MARGARET STREET

THE WISHLIST

EXPERIENCE LONDON

BLOOMING LOVELY: Sponsored by Savills Teddington, the fifth edition of the Strawberry Hill Flower Festival, in association with Flowers on the Farm, will take place at the breathtaking gothic castle in Twickenham. Challenging perceptions of floristry, 30 UK-based floral designers and growers will showcase their botanical artistry, using sustainable foam-free design. 22-24 September, strawberryhillhouse.org.uk

THE WISHLIST

EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS

Chelsea Dog Day

Supporting Pets as Therapy, Chelsea Dog Day will present a dog-themed market and a host of live entertainment for pet parents. The Four Legged Foodies market will offer treats and Chelsea Canines will present behaviourist talks, while Wagworks will host a pop-up Scent Den.

9 September

kingsroad.co.uk

Deep Time: Uncovering Our Hidden Past

Contemporary sculpture by Angela Palmer tells the story of the three-billion-year history of our nation. Using some of the oldest and most natural materials on earth, visitors can interact with rocks that represent the eternal.

Until 16 September

pangolinlondon.com

LAPADA Berkeley Square Fair

ART & DESIGN

Art Reframed

In partnership with the National Portrait Gallery, Art Reframed will feature some of the gallery’s most celebrated portraits. In 50 colourful cubes, spot renowned figures from the world of film, literature and music such as Kate Bush, Dame Judi Dench, and William Shakespeare, hanging over Coventry Street and Irving Street.

See now artoflondon.co.uk

RSMA Annual Exhibition

The Royal Society of Marine Artists will exhibit figurative paintings, hand-crafted prints, sculpture, ceramics and textiles that champion coastal and tidal work, from RSMA members as well as selected work from artists via open submission, above.

21-30 September

rsma-web.co.uk; mallgalleries.org.uk

Art, design, and antiques from a myriad eras will be on show here. Established in 1974, members of the Association of Art & Antiques Dealers has some of the finest collectables from London dealers.

27 September-1 October

lapadalondon.com

PHOTOGRAPHS: JOHN SCOTT MARTIN, FIFE REGATTA, ROTHESAY/PAUL MATTHEWS PHOTOGRAPHY; JOHAN PERSSON; JULIA LAIRD; HELEN CATHCART

The critically-acclaimed production interprets the tragic tale of star-crossed lovers. Directed and choreographed by the award-winning Matthew Bourne, the passionate and contemporary retelling is a masterpiece, below left.

Until 2 September sadlerswells.com

Close-Up: The Twiggy Musical

Close-Up tells the story of the iconic London-born fashion model, actress and fashion designer, Dame Lesley Lawson –known to all as Twiggy – who was dubbed the ‘face of the 1960s’. Played by Elena Skye, the show will feature hits that have been the soundtrack to Twiggy’s life.

Opens 18 September menierchocolatefactory.com

Sunset Boulevard

With Nicole Scherzinger in the starring role, the new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical will be on stage for 16 weeks only. A story of faded glory and unfulfilled ambition, find out if silent-movie star Norma Desmond’s return to the big screen comes to fruition.

Opens 21 September thesavoytheatre.com

Dawn French

At the London Palladium, be prepared to hear some laugh-out-loud stories from the nation's favourite telly vicar, Dawn French, who'll reveal some behind-the-scenes moments from her decades-long career. 21-24 September lwtheatres.co.uk

FOOD AND DRINK

Lórian

The vibrant restaurant offers a farm-totable menu, with dishes such as beetroot curry and a selection of homemade jams, pictured left. Sloane Street loriandeli.com

The Grove x Kew Gardens

Dine autumnally with the delicious Kew Gardens Afternoon Tea. Only using sustainable and UK suppliers, 10 per cent of each tea sold will be donated to Kew's charitable fund dedicated to combat biodiversity loss, below. Tables available from 9 September. The Grove thegrove.co.uk/dining

Tom Kerridge’s Bar and Grill

Head chef Nick Beardshaw showcases his star dishes from The Great British Menu Find hand-dived Orkney scallops, with pure theatre in the delivery, or try the tomahawk steak from the 'chef's larder'. To finish, order signature dessert, the girl with a balloon. The Corinthia kerridgesbarandgrill.co.uk

Casa do Frango

Indulge in the aromatic and famed Frango piri-piri chicken, sharing plates including bacalhau fritters and Iberico pork croquettes, ending with almond cake. Sir Simon Milton Square casadofrango.co.uk L

LOOK AHEAD

SINATRA: RAW

Starring actor and singer Richard Shelton, the critically-acclaimed play celebrates the life and music of legendary blue-eyed crooner, Frank Sinatra. The version of the star that you’ll meet is 1971 Sinatra in Palm Springs, as he prepares for his last pre-retirement show.

21 October Cadogan Hall cadoganhall.com

MONT BLANC: THE SUMMIT

Mountain painter, John Hart Dyke climbed to the summit of Mont Blanc to paint the sunset in July 2022, emulating the conditions as closely as possible to those faced by 19th century French painter of the Alps, Gabriel Loppé in 1873.

Until 8 October Cromwell Place cromwellplace.com

LYONESSE

Lily James and Kristin Scott Thomas star in Penelope Skinner's new play. Elaine, a talented, reclusive actress (Scott Thomas) recounts her story to young film executive Kate (James).

Opens 17 October Harold Pinter haroldpintertheatre. co.uk

Matthew Bourne’s Romeo & Juliet

SAKESKeep 11

MADE TO LAST, FIND YOUR FOREVER STAPLES AMONG THESE CONSCIOUSLY-MADE ITEMS

EVERGREEN JEANS

ORGANIC RECYCLED

FANFARELABEL.COM

Made with care: 1. Poplin cotton striped shirt, £95, withnothingunderneath.com 2. Woollen cardigan in Mist, £345, herdwear.co 3. Tie-front print midi dress, £265, rixo.com 4. Silk bralette, £98, silque.com 5. Salvaged sterling silver pendant, £75, lylies.com 6. 18kt rose-gold ring set with diamonds and malachite, £1,500, lateliernawbar.com 7. Organic denim trousers, £145, toa.st 8. Charlton tweed blazer, £399, hollandcooper.com 9. Stella McCartney bag, £1,250, harveynichols.com 10. Vegan shoulder bag in Olive, £70, itsrooper.co.uk 11. Italian linen blouse, £145, yolke.co.uk

APPLIQU É JEANS £195

NOSHEEN CHOUDHRY

“Here at Nosheen Hair Oil, our mission is to always go the extra mile to help save the planet in the most ethical way. The oil is expertly formulated with a unique blend of ten oils. We manufacture our hair oil in our very own in-house, London-based lab. The secret recipe was used by the women in our family and passed down generations. To ensure the purest and most natural form of the ingredients are being used, we ensure these are extracted and harvested from their origin country only.’’ Buy Nosheen Hair Oil, £33, at nosheenhairoil.com

always go the extra mile to help save the

live well LONDON

The city’s experts share their seasonal tips and the products they’re currently coveting

Shampoo Sheets (pack of 25), £24, rehabyourhair.com

SUSAN MORRISSEY, GM OF THE LANESBOROUGH CLUB & SPA

“As part of our ongoing CSR strategy at The Lanesborough, we were looking for a new brand partner that really followed these values. The Painting Room by L’Atelier Green Paris will be the UK’s first-ever plant-based and breathable nail bar, located within the prestigious Lanesborough Club & Spa, promising an unparalleled nail care experience that goes beyond traditional treatments. This innovative nail bar aims to offer a nourishing treatment that leaves a lasting impression on your nails.” Book at lanesboroughclubandspa.com

From top: Energising B5 Cleanser, £42, wildsmithskin.com ; Eau Triple Iraqi Beetroot and Egyptian Rhubarb, £144, buly1803.com ; Rose Bath Oil, £48, bamford.com ;The Greenhouse Luxury Shampoo, £15, nobleisle.com; Matcha Super Blend £59.99, dirteaworld.com

WELL SPENT

A stunning retreat from the hustle and bustle, these tranquil spaces provide the perfect Cotswold escape and are an exceptional lifestyle investment.

I grew up in the country in Northern Ireland, County Derry with three sisters and my parents.

Upon first moving to London, I lived in university halls in Southwark. After the first year, I moved to Fulham and felt very much part of an area.

I’ve lived in Acton for the past two years. It’s really green, being in a conservation area, so you forget you’re in a city at times. I’m a stone’s throw from the Piccadilly line and in central

ORLAGH McCLOSKEY

Bush, and we love the hotel’s restaurant, Chet’s. London’s great for discovering things that aren’t on large websites or shopping malls. Soho is great for independents labels. Shops-wise, I found a wonderful perfume brand, Fern, whose amazing founder Emily makes the scents in Somerset. It was my wedding perfume and has become my signature scent.

I started RIXO in September 2015 with my co-founder Henrietta Rix in our university living room. Opening our flagship store on the King’s Road was such an amazing highlight for us. We’ve dreamt of opening a flagship store since before we even wrote a business plan for RIXO. It’s so great that we can finally house our full collection, including bridalwear!

down through generations. In April, we released a sustainability manifesto. For 2023 the focal themes are circularity, women and fabrics.

We launched RIXO Rental in line with our flagship store opening and multiple other initiatives to encourage circularity in April. RIXO Rental offers our customers the chance to rent their favourite pieces. RIXO Rental launched with 26 styles, with prices starting from £39 for a four-day rental, with sizes ranging from a UK 6-20. A selection of RIXO Bridal pieces are also available to rent.

London within 20 minutes but have the joy of daily walks with my dog around Gunnersbury Park.

I also love the sense of community on Churchfield Road, with the best local wine bars and some great artisans. I’m currently using a local woman called Maja to make me some stained-glass windows and she’s the epitome of Acton locals - friendly and community orientated.

The Hoxton recently opened near our office in Shepherd’s

Sustainability has always been important to us. We’ve always aspired to create ‘future vintage’ pieces which are timeless and don’t follow trends. They can be worn for years and be passed

RIXO Pre-Loved provides circularity of products and allows customers to buy RIXO at more of an entry-level price point. Customers can bring in old RIXO pieces to the flagship store in exchange for a voucher to spend on a new piece. The preloved pieces will then be refreshed and sold on again in the flagship store at a lower price point than the main collection.

We design clothes to look good on the body. Our pieces are always designed to flatter, and the use of colour and print is unique to the brand’s DNA. The confidence it gives women helps to make RIXO stand out, as our solid black dresses are now just as popular as our prints because they’re cut right and the fabrics used are premium quality. L RIXO can be found in Chelsea, Marylebone and Carnaby Street, and online at rixolondon.com

The co-founder of vintage-inspired fashion label RIXO discusses the importance of sustainability and her favourite London discoveries

PHOTOGRAPH: RIXO; MEGAN TAYLOR

FUTURE RETRO RIXO FOUNDERS HENRIETTA & ORLAGH (STANDING). BELOW KING’S ROAD FLAGSHIP STORE

The best years

Inspired Villages’ new village Millfield Green will o er residents the last word in luxurious retirement living, complete with state-of-the-art sustainable touches

Located in Bedfordshire’s Caddington, Millfield Green is surrounded by beautiful hamlets, with the pretty market town of Dunstable within easy reach. Its first phase – set to complete this autumn – o ers 80 apartments and a clubhouse featuring a swimming pool, gym, library, bar and restaurant. The village will also have an assistedliving block with six one- or two-bedroom apartments. When complete, Millfield Green will have a total of 200 apartments. Encouraging independent living, all apartments have been individually designed with luxury interior finishes for maximum comfort.

FIRST OF ITS KIND

Beginning construction in 2021, Millfield Green is the UK’s fi rst net zero carbon , regulated energy retirement village. The village features solar panels, electric car charging points, and each apartment has its own ground source heat pump to generate renewable energy. Plus, all of the buildings are designed with excellent insulation, ventilation and high performance double glazed windows. Not only does this benefit the planet, but they will also save you money on your bills too.

Each Inspired community focuses on celebrating the freedom retirement brings. The villages o er a wealth of opportunities for you to enjoy an active, social later life. But at the same time, you’ll have the reassurance that you’re in a secure community with flexible care options available, should you need them.

RENT OR BUY

Inspired Villages o ers a wide range of retirement homes to suit an array of lifestyles in a variety of location s, from Warwickshire to Kent and Hampshire. Whether you desire a move to coastal living or a countryside retreat, many of the properties are available to rent, meaning you can choose the retirement that suits you best. James Cobb, chief customer o cer at Inspired Villages, says: “Now is your chance to book a visit to our two new Bedfordshire laterliving villages, and discover how you can enjoy the retirement you’ve dreamed of.” L Why wait to start your journey of fi nding the perfect retirement home? Visit showhomes at Elderswell and Millfield Green where friendly v illage a dvise rs will discuss your options. To book a visit , call 01582 287 360 or go to inspiredvillages.co.uk

CARE LABELS

TALLULAH RUSHAYA FINDS OUT HOW DESIGNERS ARE MAKING A SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT IN 2023

‘Slow fashion’ is a concept that has continued to grow in importance within the fashion industry. As more shoppers mindfully consider the eco credentials of designer piece s, brands are responding with materials, ethics and a wider supply chain t o ensure that what ’s being designed can last a lifetime. And w ith the increasing prominence of rental stores and app s , how we source clothes is rapidly changing for the better.

WOMENSWEAR

The rise of s ustainable design in womenswear has resulted in flattering fashion with a conscience. At Pink Lemons ( pinklemons.boutique), founder Leah DarlingWoods upcycles saris and uses organic cotton to conjure up newly beautiful garments. ‘‘O rganic cotton uses 91 per cent less water and creates 46 per cent less greenhouse emissions as soil isn't loaded with pesticides, resulting in 98 per cent less water pollution,” she notes.

At Marylebone Lane-based O’Pioneers (opioneers.co.uk), founders Clara Francis and Tania Hindmarch use heritage fabrics to create ‘forever clothing’ inspired by nostalgia. Everything is made in the UK. “We use Liberty-print cotton – Liberty fabrics are members of BIC (Better Cotton Initiative). We don’t waste a scrap –using all our smaller offcuts to create patchwork and applique elements in our designs or smaller items like headscarves , ’’ they say. O’Pioneers do esn’t design seasonally and isn't mass-produced. Instead, dresses can be worn every day with a thin polo -neck to suit the changing seasons.

Chelsea-based Lavender Hill is committed to using natural fabrics such as linen and cashmere. ‘‘We only us e certified familyrun manufacturers in Europe,” says founder Isobel Ridley. In order to reduce its impact, only one core collection is released throughout the year. The label works with Thrift+ to encourage customers to give unused clothing another lease of life

Stella McCartney’s (stellamccartney.com) w inter 2023 collection

SLOW HOT RIGHT NOW

Clockwise from top left: Coming with the celebrity seal of approval, the By Rotation app allows waste-aware shoppers to rent pieces from labels such as Zimmerman, Vampire's Wife and Taller Malmo; Watches of Switzerland has collaborated with William Wood Watches, which upcycles firefighter materials into its timepiece designs, £2,525; Upcycled parachute bag, £335, Applied Art Forms; 14kt gold ring set with 2ct grey and white diamonds, £11,989, Chupi; Tencel jacket in Taupe, £395, and matching trousers, £210, Oliver Spencer; Stella McCartney's Winter 2023 Horse Power collection hit the runway in March, debuting bags made using vegan material mirum; Liberty-print cotton blouse, £175, O'Pioneers

is her most conscious yet . Ninety-two per cent of the collection is crafted from responsible materials , including plant-based , plastic-free mirum instead of leather. Stella McCartney’s Falabella bag will be the fi rst to be crafted from mirum. Other materials include apple skin sourced from food waste to create a cruelty-free crocodile e ect, and vegea from the Italian wine industr y’s grape waste. In recent years , the rise of rental clothing has solved many occasionwear dilemmas. D esigners ranging from GANNI to Dior and Selfridges’ HURR rental service are champion ing a circular economy. The By Rotation app rent s , lend s and sell s over 70,000 designer items. Founder Eshita Kabra-Davies say s that the app is economically empowering users to monetise their wardrobe. Popular brands include SelfPortrait and RIXO, and even Actress Dame Helen Mirren’s wardrobe is on the app.

SHOES

Ethical fashion is a head-to -toe pursuit . For designer Freya Rose Archer, founder of Freya Rose ( freyarose.com), sustainability is at the heart of her brand. Handmade by Balinese women , her jewellery funds the preserv ation of these indigenous Indonesian technique s. ‘‘Mother of pearl features in several of my shoe designs – this material is in abundance as a mollu sc doesn’t always create a pearl, so the shell can be disregarded,’’ Archer says.

Also putting a n eco spring back in your step is Jermyn Street’s Crockett & Jones (crockettandjones.com). The maker of the fi nest men’s and women’s handmade sho es has a repair service to prolong their lifespan , even resol ing shoes up to three times

MENSWEAR

Luxury eco-conscious label Oliver Spencer, whose fans include Jude Law and Idris Elba, is increasing its use of environmentallysourced fabrics, working towards 100 per cent . ‘‘This year, 31 per cent of our garments were made using organic cotton, while 26 per cent were linen, which I’m really proud about,’’ says founder Oliver Spencer. In addition, the brand ’s taupe and navy Tencel suits marks a new chapter. Derived from compressed wood pulp, Tencel is gentle on skin, breathable and retain s colour. Its fi bres can also regulate body temperature.

At Applied Art Forms (appliedartforms. com), founded by Coldplay bassist Guy Berryman, longevity is the main focus. ‘‘We produce high-quality garments which are timeless in design, and select materials based on their durability to ensure that everything

will age and wear beautifully,’’ he explains. ‘‘Some of my favourite vintage pieces are more than 70 years old and look all the better for the aged look. Sourcing vintage fabrics and repurposing materials into small batches of handmade bags and garments is another area we ’re focusing on.’’

ACCESSORIES

Conscious creations are a driving force behind eponymous fi ne-jewellery line Chupi (uk.chupi.com). The skilled team work solely with recycled solid gold and consciouslysourced, recycled and lab-grown diamonds. Founder Chupi Sweetman says she considers every detail through a sustainable lens: “At the start of summer, in line with our rebrand, we launched the One in A Trillion collection, featuring fi ve stunning pieces, made with labgrown, carbon-neutral stones”.

Finally, Watches of Switzerland (watches-ofswitzerland.co.uk) has partnered with William Wood Watches , wh ich is committed to both luxury and upcycling. Founded by Jonny Garett, the grandson of a British fi refighter, the brand’s watches innovatively repurpose fi refighter materials. Hoses used by fi re departments, 100 -year- old British fi refighter helmets and more are transformed into timepieces that can last generations. L

Futureperfect

RETROFITTING A PERIOD HOME IS A COMPLEX CHALLENGE BUT ONE THAT ECO-CONSCIOUS LONDONERS ARE DETERMINED TO EMBRACE, WRITES ALEXANDRA GOSS

GREEN HOUSES

Previous page: Ripley House in Streatham Common South was retrofitted over two decades, and now boasts solar panels and a wastewater recycling system This page: A sleek bedroom in Shoreditch's all-electric The Arc 22-storey tower

76% OF PEOPLE PLANNING TO PURCHASE A PROPERTY THIS YEAR WANT A MORE ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME

With energy bills still punishingly high and the climate emergency becoming increasingly urgent, properties with eco credentials are now highly prized.

Some 76 per cent of people planning to purchase a property this year say they want a more energy-efficient home to reduce their energy bills, according to JLL’s latest survey of buyers and tenants. But that’s easier said than done in London: research by Savills Earth indicates that approximately 35 per cent of residential properties in the capital with a registered energy performance certificate (EPC) have a rating lower than C.

“Buyers are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact their homes have on the environment and on their finances,” explains James Cutting, senior sales manager at Marsh & Parsons in Chelsea and South Kensington. “Properties equipped with solar panels, smart-home systems, insulation and other sustainable amenities are preferred.”

They ’re also politically necessary if London is to meet the Mayor’s target of being netzero carbon by 2030. In the capital, about 78 per cent of carbon comes from the built environment, both from the fabric of buildings and their usage, according to the

Grosvenor Estate, rising to 85 per cent in Westminster. Grosvenor, which owns 300 acres in Mayfair and Belgravia, has set itself some of the most ambitious goals in the property sector, aiming for a reduction in emissions of at least 52 per cent by 2030 and 90 per cent by 2040.

“Roughly 80 per cent of buildings that exist today will do so in 2050 and so to achieve a net zero position, it ’s clear that tackling existing stock is essential,” says Victoria Herring, director of the Grosvenor sustainability programme.

Grosvenor has committed £90m to retrofit its many historic properties, more than 1,500 of which are listed. This involves measures such as installing better insulation, replacing gas boilers with electric heat pumps and putting in energy efficient lighting. Windows are draught-proofed and secondary glazing is added – this retains the historic look but gives the thermal performance and noise reduction of double glazing.

The estate also installs solar panels, ventilation and comfort cooling systems and uses low VOC paints, natural flooring materials such as jute and wool, reclaimed or recycled stone and sustainably sourced and certified timber.

“Retrofitting buildings, and especially heritage ones, is a complex and time intensive process,” Herring says. “But it’s a challenge we must crack.”

Overhauling Ripley House, a five-bedroom Georgian property overlooking Streatham Common, certainly took time – the current owners, Lindy and Mark Cunniffe, have been gradually retrofitting the building, which dates from 1764, throughout their 19 years there. Mark was well-placed to do this: he was overseeing consulting engineer on the Shard skyscraper and has worked on many high-profile sustainable building projects, including for the Environment Agency.

Key features to “green” the house, on sale for £2.95m (knightfrank.com) include partial double glazing to reduce the heat loss from the windows by 70 per cent; solar panels to provide all the hot water during the summer months; an intelligent heating and hot water control system; rainwater collection and wastewater recycling; and a green roof over the kitchen extension that adds thermal insulation and promotes biodiversity.

Retrofitted period homes command a special cachet, says Daniel Taylor, head of sales at Savills Notting Hill. “Futureproofing a home, particularly in a

BUY BETTER, BUY ONCE

Owning something timeless or of real quality doesn’t always mean joining the conveyor belt of excessive consumerism. Slowly, but surely, a generation of environmentally and socially conscious buyers are learning that buying preloved at auction makes both economic and ethical sense. Instead of the fast fashion of the high street, the well-chosen vintage piece – be it a mechanical watch, a garment, a branded handbag, or a piece of jewellery – can be a sustainable investment for the long term.

PERFECTLY SUSTAINABLE

Conscious luxury as a trend is growing exponentially and auction houses are perfectly placed to help. With top-end designer goods, fi ne jewellery and watches being some of the most covetable. Not only is it a sustainable practice, but also the care and consideration that goes into the manufacture and design means greater longevity. There is also an element, especially with jewellery, of uniqueness when buying an antique or vintage piece. No one else at the party will have the same, so you can sparkle that little bit brighter, knowing that not only have you gone down a more sustainable route, but also that what you have is unique.

LASTING TREASURES

At Chiswick Auctions the market for nearly-new and vintage luxury items is on something of a roll. An audience of a uent young buyers are delighting at the chance to purchase something special with excellent value retention in a way that aligns with their desire to be responsible consumers. Sellers too are aware that prices in this sector remain remarkably robust

FUTURE DATES

If you want to take advantage of the current strong market for sustainable luxury, contact Chiswick Auctions for advice on selling at auction in the upcoming autumn and winter selling season. It’s a local London auction house with recognised specialists in all the key collecting disciplines, from Asian art to photography and cameras. Upcoming luxury sales include Designer Handbags and Fashion (on 19 September), Jewellery (also 19 September) and Watches (on 14 November). L

C ontact londonvaluations@ chiswickauctions.co.uk for a free and confi dential valuation.

At Chiswick Auctions, discover why buying and selling at auction makes both economic and ethical sense

FUTURE VISION

This page: Canada

Water development

The Founding is set to be part of a 53-acre net zero neighbourhood by 2030

time where the cost of living is rising, adds a certain kerb appeal while offering longevity to buyers. Technology such as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems can certainly add value to a property as well as increasing saleability, particularly in London, where pollution levels are typically higher.”

Energy efficiency is far easier to achieve for new homes – 85 per cent of new properties are awarded an EPC rating of A or B, compared to only 4 per cent of existing stock, according to JLL.

New developments are increasingly using sustainability measures to set themselves apart. Chelsea Riverview has green roofs, electric car charging points and air source heat pumps for heating, cooling and hot water. The homes, which cost from £675,000 to £2.325m, also have a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system ( jll.co.uk).

The all-electric Shoreditch development The Arc is targeting the highest levels of sustainability and wellness credentials. The 100 one- and two-bedroom flats in the 22-storey tower are priced from £735,000 to £1.3m (savills.com).

“New-build schemes designed with a focus

on biodiversity-friendly landscaping and planting to support local ecosystems are in increasing demand,” says Tess Cavendish, senior associate director at Strutt & Parker London New Homes. She’s selling apartments priced from £1.63m in Triptych Bankside, which has green roofing, PV panels and donated its used pallets to the Pallets for Purpose scheme, which created benches and planters for the local community (struttandparker.com).

Entire London neighbourhoods are now going green. The 53-acre Canada Water masterplan will be a net zero neighbourhood by 2030. As well as having an all-electric, 100 per cent renewable energy strategy, the regeneration project was the first in the UK to use cement-free , “Earth-friendly” concrete in one of the plots, cutting embodied carbon by 45 per cent. When completed in the final quarter of 2024, The Founding development will be net zero embodied carbon and will also use an innovative heat-sharing method to capture waste energy from offices and reuse it to heat homes, substantially reducing emissions and energy bills. Current prices start at £704,000 ( jll.co.uk).

King’s Cross is now a carbon-neutral neighbourhood of energy- efficient buildings

powered entirely by renewable gas and electricity. Capella, the last development to launch, is a collection of 120 one- to threebedroom flats with prices from £1.255m, it’s due to complete next year (capellakingscross. co.uk; knightfrank.com).

At the top end of the market, sustainability has become the ultimate status symbol.

“We ’ve observed a remarkable shift in the preferences of high-end buyers, who are increasingly seeking super-prime properties that embody luxury while also embodying environmental responsibility – the appeal lies not only in their reduced environmental impact, but also in the long-term cost savings they offer,” says Simon Barry, head of new developments at Harrods Estates.

He ’s selling Coombe Ridings, a ten-bedroom, 13,010 sq ft mansion on the exclusive Coombe Estate, outside Richmond Park, for £10.5m. As well as having air conditioning, a heat source recovery system and high levels of insulation, the property has a rainwater harvesting system and a climate-controlled swimming pool.

“Discerning luxury buyers are now placing sustainability and eco-consciousness at the top of their wishlists when seeking their dream homes,” Barry adds. L

78% OF CARBON COMES FROM THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT, RISING TO 85% IN WESTMINSTER

Material matters

Interior designer Samantha Bartlett on how her studio is designing thoughtfully without compromising on luxury

Describe

your design ethos?

We provide our clients with a bespoke service, using our passion and expertise. We aim to deliver a classiccontemporary aesthetic that will remain timeless and avoid the need to regularly update, which only adds to our disposable culture.

The classic-contemporary style is both versatile and elegant, from textures and patterns, to materiality. A muted colour palette can be both vibrant and neutral at the same time, and we feel this helps form the perfect ambience for any home.

What guides your creations?

I take inspiration from everywhere, but predominantly nature – walks with my family and my cocker spaniel Milo have inspired many of my designs. You can draw inspiration from all around should you be open to it –restaurants, hotels, different countries and their cultures. It can be something simple, such as a small detail on a napkin, to larger pieces of art and architecture.

As an interior designer, you’re naturally part of a creative network and are regularly amongst specialists and other designers. It’s important to learn from and be inspired by those around you when designing.

How important is sustainability in interior design?

Extremely important. Sadly, the industry can be wasteful at times and when you’re an employee you are somewhat constrained by your organisation. Now as a business owner, I feel a duty to play a part, no matter how small and make change where I can. We promote sustainable living, and offer a range of eco-friendly materials and fabrics within our design. Where possible we re-use furniture or joinery to help minimise waste and reduce our environmental impact. We have also taken steps to educate our team on Environment Social Governance (ESG) and recently became a member of Ecologi, which is a Certified B Corporation.

A good example of this would be in the kitchen. There are plenty of ways to lower a kitchen’s carbon footprint, including upcycling and the use of energyefficient appliances. As a generation, we are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious and wherever possible make efforts to ensure this follows through in all our designs. L

Bring your vision to life by calling 020 3086 7100 or view projects designed by Samantha Bartlett Interiors at samanthabartlett.com

AUCTION OF ART FROM 1890 TO NOW | 26 OCTOBER 2023 |

LONDON SW1

COMING SOON TO THE MALL GALLERIES - FEATURING ARTISTS SUCH AS HENRI-EDMOND CROSS, MARINO MARINI, EDUARDO CHILLIDA, WILLIAM ROBERTS, KEITH VAUGHAN, ALAN DAVIE, PAULA REGO, ANDY WARHOL, DAMIEN HIRST, ALEX DA CORTE, SAM FALLS, ARNE JACOBSEN, MARCEL BREUER, PIERO FORNASETTI, GEORG JENSEN, WENDY RAMSHAW, JIM PARTRIDGE, EDMUND DE WAAL, LUCIE RIE, PETER COLLINGWOOD, ALBERT IRVIN, DENIS MITCHELL, ROBERT ADAMS, BREON O’CASEY, MARY FEDDEN & ROY DE MAISTRE. AUCTIONS ARE OPEN FOR ENTRIES - SPEAK TO OUR SPECIALISTS NOW:

SIMON HUCKER | 0207 930 9115

simon.hucker@lyonandturnbull.com

PHILIP SMITH | 0207 930 9115

philip.smith@lyonandturnbull.com

LONDON SW1 | 27 OCT 2023 |

AUCTION OF ART, DESIGN & STUDIO CERAMICS

for Designed life

CONSCIOUS CONSUMPTION IS A PHRASE THAT'S INCREASINGLY DOMINATING THE INTERIOR DESIGN SPACE. ARABELLA YOUENS ASKS THE EXPERTS FOR ADVICE ON WISE INVESTMENTS AND HOW TO ACHIEVE MORE SUSTAINABLE SCHEMES IN THE HOME

FOREVER FURNISHINGS

Previous page: Rupert Bevan's contemporarystyle Marcel dining table, from £11,200, is made from solid oak with an ebonised finish Above, left to right:

Gingerlily London's mulberry silk bed linen is natural, high quality and hypoallergenic; Edward Bulmer's plant-based natural paint – seen here in Olympian Green – is made using rich mineral and earth pigments

When it comes to interior design, the word sustainability conjures up different concepts. For some, it’s about turning their backs on “fast” furniture for good quality antiques, for others, it’s about investing in timeless design, and for those who favour the hands-on approach, it pivots on using reclaimed materials, restoring existing pieces and upcycling others.

The Society of British & International Interior Design – the UK’s leading accreditation body to the industry – distil s it into three steps. The first is to focus on reducing waste by using reclaimed wood, bamboo, recycled metal, cork and jute. Next is designing for energy efficiency – using renewable, non-carbon-based energy or reducing the amount needed for heating and lighting. Finally, it’s designing with longevity in mind , which is best summed up by the maxim ‘ buy well, buy once ’.

COMMITTED DESIGNERS

Of all the interior designers working in London, one of the leading lights embedding sustainability into her practice is Maria Speake. A co-founder of the Kensal Greenbased salvage specialists Retrouvius, she utilises reclaimed materials in novel and unexpected ways, resulting in sophisticated, one-off spaces. “We’re really trying to design with the notion of working with what already exists and steering away from the ‘get the look’ approach which creates a supply demand,” explains Speake (retrouvius.com).

Lulu Lytle, co-founder of the furniture

and lighting company Soane, has been at the forefront of a movement championing British-made craft for more than 20 years (soane.co.uk). Others are catching on too.

“There ’s been a big emphasis in my work recently on using reclaimed finishes and second-hand furniture , which has been so pleasing to see,” explains Naomi Astley Clarke. Her message is that timeless , luxurious designs don’t always mean compromising on style or comfort. Some designers, such as Studio Hooton, also offer clients the option of offsetting any work they ’re having done on their homes (studiohooton.com).

BUY WELL, BUY ONCE

Happily, the desire to have a house with personality dovetails well with the philosophy of investing in individual pieces rather than mass-made furniture. “As with the fashion industry, we can never achieve an individual look with mass-market products – you don’t get any dialogue with the designer and there’s no story, not to mention the amount of waste damaging the environment,” says Claire Sa, co-founder of Notting Hill-based design studio, De Rosee Sa.

“When it comes to interiors, buying bespoke or artisanal pieces creates a stronger emotional link and inevitably

GOING THE GREEN MILE

From luxury townhouses to penthouse apartments: when it comes to buying a home, we’re increasingly going green, according to Michael Graham’s Portobello Road director Richard Banks

Michael Graham has been selling homes for more than 50 years, and in those early days going green would have implied compromising on style and luxury. That has changed completely. Buyers of everything, including property, are increasingly conscious of the environment and the importance of sustainability.

THINKING AHEAD

In our Portobello Road office, the home features buyers are looking for regularly include eco elements that help the planet and beat rising energy costs. On top of that, with two more interest-rate rises expected this year, buyers are keen to take advantage of the so-called “green mortgages” that offer lower monthly costs for homes that meet certain EPC standards or renovation criteria.

HIGH STANDARDS

Although Passivahaus buildings are still considered the gold standard in energy efficiency, we’re seeing period townhouses in Kensington and Chelsea with an EPC rating of B, with potential for reaching an A. High-spec renovations to

older properties are routinely using sustainable materials, installing efficient boilers, and adding features like groundsource heat pumps to power underfloor heating systems. When properties have been converted in the last two or three years, buyers have the added peace of mind of being safely within a ten-year warranty period.

FOREVER HOME

Our Notting Hill buyers have a clear vision of their ideal home. Given the high cost of living and the climate crisis, it’s not unusual for two things to be specified as nonnegotiable; the size of the property in square footage, and the requirement for that property to be energy efficient.

Whether you’re new to the city and looking for your first London property, moving from one borough to another, or selling your London home in the hope of moving to the country, our Portobello Road property team would be delighted to guide you through the entire process and find you the home that meets all of your important criteria. L Visit michaelgraham.co.uk /london or call 020 8092 1888 to start your search now.

PHOTOGRAPHS: MICHAEL GRAHAM

MOVING ON Left to right: Homes such as Sandy Court are available; The Michael Graham team are ready to help buyers

means you love what you’ve bought even more, all while helping to sustain crafts and contributing to the livelihoods of small businesses that struggle to compete with mass-market producers.” (deroseesa.com)

Another tip is to go for classic, timeless designs for the big-ticket items, according to interior designer Nicola Harding. “These are less likely to date.”

FIXABILITY

Extending the useful life of any manufactured item makes a significant contribution to the environmental impact. Reupholstering a sofa or armchair is a satisfying way to breathe another life into a favourite piece which, if made well, can last over a hundred years. “Some high street offerings are held together with staples or glue and are impossible to put back together once disassembled,” explains Lulu Lytle. This isn’t the case with a traditionally made piece. Some companies are introducing fixability into their DNA to encourage a circular economy. The Chelsea Harbour-based lighting manufacturer Porta Romana has recently established a refurbishment and part-exchange service for their customers. It

allows them to update or trade in old designs for new ones ( portaromana.com).

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

Diverting waste from landfill and re-using it in innovative ways is another growing trend. In the UK, 400,000 tonnes of interior textiles are sent to landfill each year. The Haines Collection offers an alternative. The online platform works with luxury textile houses to re-purpose surplus, deadstock or slightly misprinted fabrics to prevent them ending up in landfill; to date they’ve saved more than 25,000m of fabric doing just that. “If your designer is in the market for fabrics, make sure they take a look at Haines to see if they can re-purpose instead of buying new –you’ll be making your own contribution to lessening your impact on the environment and helping us on our overall mission,” say s founder Jules Haines (hainescollection.co.uk). Choosing products made from waste or recycled fibres is another option. The Italian furniture brand Minotti favours yarns made from recycled fibres and polyester fibres from mass-dyed years, reducing the amount of carbon generated during the production (minottilondon. com). Similarly, Molteni & Co’s Paul sofa system uses 100 per cent recycled and biodegradable polyester (molteni.it).

BE KIND, REWIND Above, left to right: Bisca's handcrafted staircases can be made from reclaimed wood salvaged from an array of sources – the one pictured was made using reclaimed timber lock gates; Little Greene has launched an upcycled collection of matt-finish paint shades, including Tracery II, seen here

“THERE’S BEEN A BIG EMPHASIS IN MY WORK RECENTLY ON USING RECLAIMED FINISHES AND SECOND-HAND FURNITURE”

STAYING IN THE LOOP Above, left to right: If you order Fired Earth reclaimed hexagonal terracotta tiles, £135 per sqm, expect a wide variety of rich earthy shades; Rupert Bevan uses sustainably-sourced British timber and traditional techniques to make durable furniture in his Notting Hill-based studio

MATERIALS MATTER

Mainstream paints are made from a byproduct of the petroleum industry and usually contain about 40 per cent plastic. Several companies are coming up with more environmentally sound options. Interior designer Edward Bulmer produces a line of natural paint from his Herefordshire studio. Meanwhile, COAT Paints is a Climate Positive Certified brand; it use s 360-loop recycling , so customers can return excess paint and tins, avoiding landfill altogether

Linen is a naturally sustainable material and Bernie de Le Cuona’s collection is 100 per cent organic. London-based Nir Meiri Studio ha s designed light fixtures made from fungus mycelium and red cabbage. If that sounds like a step too far, start by opting for lower-impact versions of common household items. For example, Polish glassware brand LSA International has a range made from 100 per cent recycled glass.

When it comes to introducing beautiful reclaimed wood into the home, Bisca’s handcrafted staircases offer a range of options. The company places a strong emphasis on sourcing materials locally and responsibly. One project involved repurposing oak from old vodka barrels to create a rustic-looking staircase that complements the heritage of a listed property. Another featured 150-year-old Greenheart timber, originally used as harbour props in Hartlepool Dock, while in a restaurant , a single oak trunk was used as the spine of the staircase and oak branches

Reupholster, REPAIR AND RESTORE

REVIVAL UPHOLSTERY: a favourite with Samantha Cameron based in Notting Hill (revivalupholstery.co.uk)

LIGHT FIXATION: Lighting restorer based in Shepherd’s Bush regularly used by interior designers and antique dealers (lightfixation.co.uk)

CHAIRMAN & SON: reupholsters with workshop near Ravenscourt Park (chairmanandson.co.uk)

TITAN STUDIOS: specialists in gilding, lacquer and japanning based in Shepherd’s Bush (titanstudios.co.uk)

LONDON RESTORERS: the Vauxhallbased team undertake all types of restoration although they specialise in 18th and 19th century pieces (londonrestorers.com)

as the handrail. “There ’s been an increased demand for natural and reclaimed materials in the past five years, adds Richard McLane, founder and director of Bisca, “nothing can replace the beauty of nature” (bisca.co.uk).

BUY LOCAL

One of the simplest ways to reduce a carbon footprint is to work with British creatives rather than importing furniture (much of which is made and shipped from south-east Asia).

“Buy from a business that ’s family owned,” recommends Cassandra Ellis, founder of the handmade paint company Atelier Ellis. “Things will be better made and the care will be palpable.”

Notting Hill-based furniture designer Rupert Bevan sources materials from companies who prioritise sustainable practice and only uses timber from British sawmills. “It’s important to use as many traditional techniques as possible when making a piece , to allow timber to breathe or leather to move,” he explains. “By adopting these techniques, we can create items that stand the test of time.” (rupertbevan.com)

PRACTICAL SPACES

Kitchens and bathrooms can also be designed using sustainable materials. “We’ve re-used existing carcasses before and replaced the door fronts and countertops – the transformation is amazing,” explains interior designer Samantha Bartlett. Her studio has recently become a member of Ecologi. “From the construction methods and materials used to installing energyefficient appliances, there are plenty of ways to lower a kitchen’s carbon footprint.”

Fired Earth currently has two terracotta tile collections , both of which use recycled tiles which come with an in-built patina ( firedearth.com). The long-term durability of stone, porcelain and ceramic means that replacement costs are reduced and the lifetime cost is less than that associated with more inexpensive floor and wall coverings, explain the team from flooring manufacturers Mandarin Stone (mandarinstone.com). And luxury bathroom specialist West One Bathrooms is now working with the Haines Collection as part of its ongoing commitment to reduce waste in the bathroom industry, reselling surplus tiles from returns or cancelled orders (westonebathrooms.com). L

EVERLASTING

LOVE Position: Molteni & Co's elegantly-proportioned Paul sofa contains 100 per cent recycled and biodegradable polyester sourced from PET bottles; sustainable bathroom designs from West One Bathrooms include this BetteBalance washbasin and BetteAir shower tray, which use 100 per cent recyclable materials

“BUY FROM A BUSINESS THAT’S FAMILY-OWNED. THINGS WILL BE BETTER MADE AND THE CARE WILL BE PALPABLE”

MADE Simply

CRAFTED TO LAST, THESE GEMS WILL BRING FUNCTION AND BEAUTY TO YOUR HOME

CLEAN SLATES TERRAZZO TRAYS AND COASTERS, FROM

Natural beauty: 1. Delft earthenware handpainted tiles, £32 each, petrapalumbo.com 2. Compact blender, £109.95, smeguk.com 3. Porcelain mug, £30, nimiltd.com 4. Ash timber armchair, £620, lercolani.com 5. Cotton maché vase, from £30, birdiefortescue.co.uk 6. Cotton padded hot water bottle cover, £45, toa.st 7. China and brass ceiling light, £199, originalbtc.com 8. Ceramic candle, £85, austinaustinorganic.com 9. Bordallo Pinheiro bowl, from £12.50, lamplondonhome.com 10. Chalk paint in Capability Green (1l), £26.95, anniesloan.com 11. R1S smart radio, £299, ruarkaudio.com

£25 MAIELIVING.COM

Luxury care home on e Bishops Avenue, Highgate

Introducing Signature at Highgate. If you’re looking for the highest quality residential and specialist care in the most luxurious of surroundings, you’ll nd it here.

Our award-winning care team includes registered nurses who are on hand 24 hours a day providing care that is responsive to individual preferences and needs. Residents can choose from a range of accommodation options and enjoy expansive communal areas, lifestyle amenities and gardens. All designed to ensure residents can retain their independence in style, for as long as possible.

WELCOMING RESIDENTS FROM AUTUMN 2023

Creativity at its best

Taking place between 16-24 September, the London Design Festival will deliver a series of thought-provoking e vents and exhibitions Launched by Sir John Sorrell and Ben Evans in March 2003, the festival puts the spotlight on London’s design industry on a global stage. This year’s 13 ‘Design Districts’ will include new additions Chelsea Design District , where Poggenpohl’s Fulham studio will host a lunchtime experience with chef Sven-Hanson Britt and Miele, and Fitzrovia Design Distric t, where the Sanderson London hotel will be transformed by Philippe Starck, and Lualdi’s London flagship will launch.

Attracting interest from near and far, last year’s LDF drew 360,000 visitors. The festival has been showcasing more emerging creatives with the purpose of encouraging and inspiring the next generation of designers – especially as the number of students studying design subjects has seen a decrease. ‘‘The festival has cemented London’s reputation as a global creative capital, while supporting designers at every level of their careers. This year’s programme promises fresh perspectives and boundarypushing ideas that will inspire audiences,’’ comments Ben Evans, London Design Festival director. ‘‘But just as importantly, the festival provides opportunities for emerging talent and promotes inclusivity in the sector. We ’re incredibly proud of the vital role the festival plays in helping designers and creative businesses to reach

new audiences , and championing design’s significance in shaping our world.”

Working closely with Kingston University’s School of Art, British furniture retailer Heal’s will exhibit designs from recent graduates alongside its newest collection at its flagship Tottenham Court Road store. The edit of ten designs reflect s the use of sustainable design practic es , from crushing shelving to statement sideboards. This LDF for Heal’s also marks the anniversary of three chair designs: the Egg chair by Arne Jacobsen, a limited-edition Togo sofa from Ligne Roset and the newly re-launched Forum armchair, fi rst released in 1964

Marking the 300th anniversary of Sir Christopher Wren’s death, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the festival will delve into the London architect’s remarkable legacy with two luminous installations. By melding historic architecture with contemporary art, the festival will reframe Wren’s work to show his influence. In association with Artichoke at St Paul’s Cathedral, Aura by Spanish artist Valbuena, examines the potential of time, sound and light to create ‘contemporary rituals’. The other installation at St Stephen Walbrook Church, built by Wren in 1679 after the Great Fire, will house Studio Waldemeyer’s Halo, an ethereal light installation that will captivate audiences, bringing together an appreciation of history, art, and spirituality under one roof. L

For more information , visit londondesignfestival.com

MAKERS AND SHAKERS Top, left to right: Egg chair, from £7,502, Heal’s; Judi Archer’s work will feature in Blue Patch’s curated Homes with a Heart exhibition; the Tagadá chair by Stamuli AB will feature in the Swedish Pavillion showcase; Goldfinger cakestand from Material Matters’ curation. Bottom, left to right: Jane Cairns’ ceramics can be seen in the British Craft Pavillion; Deborah Bowness’s eclectic artwork will appear in the British Craft Pavillion; Denby Pottery’s Kiln Green range will be included in Blue Patch’s Homes with a Heart ; V&A Jameel fellow Dima Srouji will present work at the museum’s showcase

As the London Design Festival enters its 21st year of celebrating UK design excellence and emerging talent, here’s what to expect

PHOTOGRAPH: LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL; HEAL’S’; FRANCESCO STELITANO; BEN PETER CATCHPOLE; ALEXANDER BRATTELL

Cleanplates

TALLULAH RUSHAYA FINDS HOW PRIME LONDON

RESTAURANTS ARE THINKING GREENER, WITH CONSCIOUS COOKING AND RESPONSIBLE SOURCING

APRICITY

68 Duke Street apricityrestaurant.com

ST. BARTS

63 Bartholomew Close restaurant-stbarts.co.uk

WASTE NOT This

page, from top to bottom: St. Barts' balanced menu filled with contemporary, flavourful dishes received a Michelin star this year; a sample of the seasonal children's menu at Apricity; the City of London-based St. Barts offers diners serene views overlooking church cloisters

Founded by Chantelle Nicholson, th is Michelin Green Star eatery uses British produce to fuse joyful dining with conscious cooking. No stone has been left unturned in this Mayfair-based restaurant, including how menus are displayed to low-intervention wines. Taking greater strides towards a circular economy, Apricity is creating a sustainable community. “It’s the pillar of our menu in many ways. We work with seasonal produce, and small-scale farmers in Kent and East Sussex. We work with regeneratively-farmed meat, focusing on the lesserknown cuts,’’ says Chantelle. ‘‘We work with suppliers who share our ethos and are doing more to try and become more circular in the way they work – for example , by eliminating single-use packaging.’’ The journey towards a more regenerative menu, has meant ‘going without a few things’. However, at Apricity, whose menu features dishes such as butter-poached Cornish cod with fresh flour orzo and rhubarb granita with ‘goldencomb’ (plantbased honeycomb), Chantelle ’s encouraged to be more conscious and creative with where produce comes from. Recently, eco co ee brand I lly ha s partnered with Apricity to make co ee-led recipes and a bespoke blend that diners can enjoy alongside the seasonal menu.

Within the historic City of London, near the Barbican, characterised by its magnificent architecture, St Barts invites diners on a journey through the British Isles. The Michelin Star restaurant was founded by three friends: Johnnie, Luke, and Toby. Inspired by the dining spot ’s surroundings, its interiors are carefully considered, with its tableware being made by St Barts co-founder Luke, with local woodworker Archie Faber using wood from fallen London plane trees to create their tables. Executive head chef Johnnie Crowe uses all elements of meat and fi sh, operating on a zero-waste policy. “It’s fun to think about how you’ ll use them, rather than just focusing on the most ‘popular’ bits – fi nding creative ways to entice diners to eat something unusual, and surprising them with how delicious something not-so traditionally appetising can be,” he says. ‘‘You may have a lovely fi llet of turbot as a main dish and the trim is then used for one of our snacks, and we’ll always use o al to create kebab. We also work with a lot of rare breeds and so get meat produce through a cull, rather than farmed – for example , the venison on our winter menu.’’

STEVEN JOYCE; BEN CARPENTER; @ZODEEMEDIA; ROBERTO SATTA; THOMAS ALEXANDER

20 BERKELEY

20 Berkeley Street

20berkeley.com

Having opened this summer this new addition to London’s dining scene, 20 Berkeley, is already making an impact. D esigned by Pirajean Lees, this intimate restaurant creates sophisticated dishes that promote the use of ingredients from the United Kingdom’s green and pleasant land. ‘‘I would say our focus is on provenance and that working with individual s instead of big groups gives us a much better base to initiate sustainable operations from,’’ says executive chef Ben Orpwood. ‘‘One example is Brett Graem’s pigs, Brett’s goal is to have the pigs fed on rapeseed oil production by-products, all the omega 3 is for the pigs, then cold-pressed rapeseed oil is for the kitchens. Any oil left over is to be turned into fuel for the delivery vans, a full circle!’’

At the restaurant’s Nipperkin Bar the emphasis on ethics and sustainability remains present, using in-house spirits to create innovative and memorable cocktails. ‘‘We aim to execute a closed-loop service , where we minimise our carbon footprint by reducing deliveries, reducing packaging, upcycling many of the bottles, and packaging we use,’’ explains Angelos Bafas, head of bar. ‘‘We also try to reduce waste as much as possible, we use offcuts or by-products from the kitchen but also give a second (or sometimes third) life to all of our ingredients. We sometimes must sacrifice a couple of elements, like garnishes. This is why you’ll find the focus is solely on the juice element of our drinks and nothing else.’’ L

IN SEASON

This page, from top: Apricity’s earthy, eco-conscious dishes and transparentlysourced ingredients are reflected in the Mayfair restaurant's paredback interiors aesthetic and open kitchen; 20 Berkeley's hearty Herdwick lamb with tomato fondue, artichokes and peppers is a menu highlight

Mindful BITES

MALLOW, Canary Wharf

This 100% plant-based restaurant takes culinary inspiration from around the globe. mallowlondon.com

Set in the heart of the historic and quaint Eccleston Yards, it serves some of the best steaks in London. jonesfamilykitchen.co.uk

ROTUNDA, King's Cross

This canal-side establishment is the destination for gate-to-plate dining, with Mexican dishes. rotundabarandrestaurant.co.uk

FALLOW, St James's

Founded on conscious creativity, its award-winning menus reflect the best of British fare. fallowrestaurant.com

JONES FAMILY KITCHEN, Belgravia

TRAVEL LIGHT

Seeking a staycation spot where cosy luxury meets environmental responsibility?

Tallulah

HOME HOUSE

Marylebone

homehouse.co.uk

The iconic grand Georgian townhouse and private members’ club began life as a residence for Elizabeth, Countess of Home , designed by architect James Wyatt. With the later appointment of Robert Adam, Home House’s interiors were transformed into a study in neoclassical decadence , which members of the club and guests of the hotel still enjoy today. Home House continues to add to its illustrious history, with leading business club Home Grown. Together they make up the Home Club Collection. Home Grown, a stone’s thrown away on Great Cumberland Place, is part of several initiatives that work to support entrepreneurs. In April, the Home Club C ollection became the first private members' club group to receive t he Butterfly Mark, the leading sustainability certification from Positive Luxury. With a commitment to growing its environmental strategy, Home

House switched to 100 -per-cent renewable energy in 2022, aiming to reducing gas usage by 10 per cent and reducing electricity usage by 10 per cent year on year to achieve net zero and to help tackle global warming. Club rooms for non-members start from £275 per night at Home House, and from £175 at Home Grown

THE LAKES BY YOO

The Cotswolds thelakesbyyoo.com

At th is secluded 850-acre estate, filled with panoramic views and an eco-pond, ecology and conservation are necessities. Founder John Hitchcox originally envisioned a Swallows and Amazon s-style playground, where children could freely and safely explore. Rewilding is a core aim with a wild arboretum full of trees donated to the estate. A further 500,000 -plus trees have been planted to develop into vast woodland. Providing fun for all the family, activities at The Lakes by Yoo range from festivals

and wellness retreats to paddle boarding. Families can also spend time at the on-site farm populated by rescue animals. The idyllic lakes lifestyle will have visitors wanting to return year after year. Divided into luxury rooms, apartments and lodges, the interiors reflect the harmonious surroundings, with the use of local and natural materials , such as Cotswold stone and locally woven willow.

Accommodation start s from £995

THE NEST

Stamford, Lincolnshire

thenestglamping.co.uk

Forget the hustle and bustle of city life in this serene hideaway, nestled within private farmland. This luxury glamping and dogfriendly destination is the ultimate nature escape. Choose from the Cuckoo, Pinkfoot and Teal, where six can sleep in each lodge with stellar views of the lake. With access to large burning stoves in lodges, and a Gozney pizza oven , guests can cook up a feast. In The Nest, find a menu of spa treatments to

Rushaya rounds up the holiday havens that do both and much more

help you unwind , and why not try the woodfired hot tub? Embrace the full glamping experience with film night on the deck of your lodge, lighting a roaring firepit to keep you warm from head to toe. From dawn to golden hour, the lake has activities to suit all types of guests. For the sporty, there ’s wild swimming and kayaking, and picnicking for those who want to simply admire the view. Beyond The Nest, venture to nearby Stamford where you can explore Burghley House and Belvoir Castle.

Roo m s start from £880 for a mid-week stay, and £930 for weekend getaways

THE TAWNY

Staffordshire

thetawny.co.uk

On the grounds of rural Staffordshire’s Consall Hall Gardens, The Tawny is an oasis for nature lovers. A haven of discovery and adventure, stay in eco-conscious accommodation that fuse s simplicity and luxury. There are 55 Scandi- chic ‘rooms’,

some named after wildlife such as Stag, Hedgehog , and Poppy and Foxglove after botanical delights. Take a map to navigate the five lakes and rolling vistas, where you’ll find The Plumicorn restaurant sitting majestically at the peak, offering a menu, using ingredients from the county’s finest artisans, bakers and farmers. Rejuvenate with activities: guests with artistic flair may want to try their hand at the abstract and mixed-media class. Giving a new lease of life to the grounds, the whimsical Folly Trail has a number of statue and stone works from the country houses destroyed in the 1960s along with their gardens. On 1 September, discover Libra and Lyra with mindful stargazing. Rooms start from £240 per night, with prices vary ing between low - , mid- and high- season

THE HARPER HOTEL

Norfolk theharper.co.uk

In north Norfolk’s tranquil rural village of Langham, The Harper is a luxury hotel with

ample charm. Near the Blakeney coast, The Harper has been described as where land meets the sea. The 32 rooms have all been designed with warming colour palettes, and original art, perfect for a country escape and understated luxury. The hotel uses LED lighting throughout the building, with electricity, wood and bio-mass fuel for heat and power.

Expect a culinary labyrinth of restaurants that showcase the finest and freshest of Norfolk. For a convivial setting, have a tipple or snack at The Bar, where upcycled copper piping has been utilised. The Stanley’s table d’hôte menu spans land and sea, including homemade sourdough and butters. Ivy’s is the perfect setting for all-day dining. Under the star-filled skies, dine at The Yard. Harper has added two sister pubs to its portfolio. The Blue Bell serves pies, puddings and pints, and The Morston Anchor serves traditional British seafood. Room s starts from £225 a night, including breakfast L

EMBRACE THE ELEMENTS Opening page: Nestled in the Cotswolds, The Lakes by Yoo offers wellness retreats. Above, clockwise from top left: Go glamping in Lincolnshire at luxury nature spot The Nest; stay closer to home at sustainable private members' club Home House on Portman Square; treat yourself to a soak in the tub with lakeside views of The Tawny's sprawling Staffordshire estate; dine beneath the stars at The Harper in north Norfolk

Generation green

SCHOOLS ARE INTRODUCING IMPACTFUL INITIATIVES TO INSPIRE YOUNG STUDENTS TO FIGHT FOR THEIR PLANET’S FUTURE, LAURA SUTHERLAND DISCOVERS

While eco-consciousness has long been on the agenda, the sense of urgency around climate change has seen a worldwide shift from half-hearted lip service to fervent grass-roots action. During one of her stirring speeches, activist Greta Thunberg said, “I have learned you are never too small to make a difference”, which has inspired schools to find innovative ways to not only make a tangible difference, but also galvanise tomorrow’s adults.

ON ALL LEVELS

Consistent, cohesive messaging is needed for vital change, an approach that Brighton College Prep Kensington has employed by ensuring that everything from recycling

to global sustainability is part of its rich science curriculum, all supported by relevant exhibitions and talks at the nearby Na tural History and Science museums. On a structural level, the school building has been designed with sensor-controlled lighting, the nursery has eschewed bright plastics for wooden toys and its state-of-the-art MakerSpace facility is dedicated to ambitious design projects primarily created using recycled and waste materials. Similarly, winner of the Environmental Achievement category at 2022’s Independent School of the Year Awards, Seaford College in the South Downs has embedded sustainability into its culture through it s operations, curriculum and co-curriculum. Through

Fairtrade Fortnight campaigns, replanting partnerships with English Woodlands Forestry and even conservation trips to the Borneo rainforest, students here are instilled with an awareness of the wider world and how to protect it. Head John Green says, “At the heart of life at Seaford are many opportunities to have a positive impact on the environment.”

SEEDS OF CHANGE

Being immersed in the great outdoors is also fundamental in helping children appreciate that nature must be respected and preserved at all costs. Surrey’s Cranleigh School has established an Outdoor Learning Week, during which all lessons are taken alfresco, as well as a selection

PUTTING DOWN

ROOTS Previous

page: St James Prep pupils tend to their vegetable patch, which has six separate planting stations This page: Youngsters at Brighton College Prep Kensington get in touch with nature through forest-school sessions in its two acres of garden space

of open-air pursuits, including stargazing, rambles, recycling competitions and even a wassail ceremony – a traditional event to bless apple orchards. Head of sustainability and environmental education Phil Leamon reveals , “Our aim was to create a sense of community around ecology, help pupils reconnect to the seasons and give them a sense of wonder and gratitude for the planet.”

Meanwhile, Holme Grange School in Berkshire gives pupils access to its farm, which is populated by pigs, chickens, ducks, geese and pygmy goats. As well as tending to the animals, children get to grips with the school beehives and grow produce in polytunnels and raised beds. Learning to live from the land steps up a gear in year five, when the Fork to Fork programme enriches students’ understanding of horticulture, animal care and the outdoors through kinaesthetic learning. Selling ‘Holme Grown’ fare to parents at the on-campus shop also allows them to see sustainability come full circle.

St James Prep in West Kensington – which has been vegetarian since being founded in 1975 – is leading a similarly green-thumbed movement, with the recent introduction of a vegetable patch. “At term’s end, the children harvested their vegetables and ate them in class. Our teaching kitchen – run by Allegra McEvedy, co-founder of Leon – instructs the

children about the importance of sourcing local, seasonal food to reduce environmental impact,” explains head Hilary Wyatt.

TAKING THE LEAD

However, perhaps the most effective way of ensuring pupils engage meaningfully with environmental protection has been empowering them to take control of their community’s activism. Case in point: Benenden in Kent, which has created a pupil-led Sustainability Committee, through which all of the school’s environmental activities are coordinated and sustainability goals monitored. “The committee has made excellent progress on both in and out of the school, as well as successfully applying for an Eco Schools Green Flag award, achieving a distinction,” reveals director of international and strategic projects Matt Commander.

Meeting weekly, St James Prep’s pupil-led Eco Committee has written an Eco Code for

the school body to adhere to and leads most sustainability initiatives, from No Power Days, where non-essential electricity is turned off, to making eco-bricks out of non-recyclable plastic. “They’re driven by a keen sense of responsibility and demand impactful change,” says Hilary Wyatt. Meanwhile, Brighton College Prep Kensington’s Eco-Council – run by pupils but overseen by one teacher – has been charged with the goals of evaluating the school’s energy use and setting targets for achieving carbon neutrality.

Cranleigh’s successful student-run Sustainability Council works in tandem with the Surrey Environmental Action inter-schools group. Phil Leamon explains, “We’ve coorganised an event with Zero on sustainability economics. For young people growing up in this world of instant gratification, it’s crucial that they can come together, talk about climate change, inspire one another and spread eco-centric thinking and habits.” L

OUR AIM WAS TO RECONNECT TO THE SEASONS AND TO GIVE PUPILS A SENSE OF WONDER AND GRATITUDE FOR THE PLANET

HIGHGATE VILLAGE LONDON

SET HIGH ABOVE LONDON AND SURROUNDED BY ABUNDANT PARKLAND, HISTORIC HIGHGATE OFFERS RESIDENTS PEACEFUL VILLAGE CHARM THAT FEELS LIKE A WORLD AWAY FROM THE BUSY WEST END

Dating back to 1350, Highgate o ers a genuine slice of London history. At its highest point it lies 423ft above sea level, giving far-reaching views of the city. “It ’ s a very special pocket of north London,” says Mark Pollack, director of Aston Chase. “It has an intimate ambience with a rich sense of community.”

The area has a lower profi le than neighbouring Hampstead and attracts academics, City professionals and people working in the arts and media. “Once a resident of Highgate, few choose to leave,” says Pollack. Famous residents include Jamie Oliver and Liam Gallagher, while Kate Moss, Sting, Annie Lennox and the late George Michael have all owned homes in The Grove, arguably Highgate’s most sought-after address. In addition to these beautiful listed Georgian homes, two of London’s

most expensive streets can be found in private gated roads Courtenay Avenue and Compton Avenue. James Diaper, head of sales at Savills Hampstead says, “Despite the exclusive feel, styles are varied and cater to a diverse market – from families through to retirees. Georgian and Victorian properties occupy a lot of Highgate.”

The peaceful village lifestyle, green spaces and excellent schools are the greatest draws. “There ’s always a great place to sit and watch the world go by,” says Mike Tracy, partner of Knight Frank’s Hampstead o ce. A mix of cafes, pubs, restaurants, independent shops and parks o er a vibrant social hub. while the city is easily reached on the Northern Line.

“Buyers like the balance here,” concludes Diaper. “It’s the amenities, safe environment and excellent schooling that encourages people to put down roots here.”

It is a very special pocket of north London... once a resident of Highgate few choose to leave

A day IN HIGHGATE

HEIGHTS OF HIGHGATE

An area famed for its quaint village life, stroll along the high street, left, to find independent shops and friendly locals. And for a real walk through history, visit Highgate Cemetery, below

Ask a local

9AM

Nature trail

Known for its abundance of green space, Highgate is a place to don your walking shoes. Explore Highgate Woods (cityoflondon.gov.uk), Waterlow Park and the edge of Hampstead Heath on Millfield Lane, accessible via Highgate West Hill. A sanctuary for various species of animals and plants, there will be plenty of flora and fauna to spot if you take any of these paths

11AM

Press paws

As an area of dog lovers, why not get your four-legged friend snapped by the awardwinning Suzi Darsa, The Highgate Dog Photographer (thehighgatedogphotographer. com)? Creating a selection of portrait styles and action shots, Suzi can capture what makes your pup uniquely wonderful.

1PM

Village green

A quintessentially London village, Highgate is home to a high street that is full of charming independent eateries and shops. A cornerstone in the area, Highgate Bookshop is filled with broad-ranging fiction and nonfiction titles. If feeling peckish at lunch, try

Chango Empanadas (chango.co.uk), or if after a heartier meal and a pint choose from the neighbourhood ’s many historic pubs, such as The Gatehouse, The Angel, The Flask or The Red Lion & Sun.

3PM

History remembered

A unique tourist attraction, Highgate Cemetery (highgatecemetery.org) on Swain’s Lane, is undoubtedly London’s most famous burial site. Drawing visitors from near and far, it is one of London’s Magnificent Seven cemeteries. It ’s the resting place of many notable writers, musicians and philosophers including Karl Marx, poet Christina Rossetti, and novelist George Eliot.

5 PM

Creative hub

On South Grove, the Highgate Literary and Science Institution (hlsi. net) provides a space for exhibitions. From 29 September the Handmade in Highgate Designer Maker Fair will feature some of the best creators.

“I've lived in Highgate for more than 20 years. I love that it's a village on top of a hill surrounded by beautiful parks. Walk through Waterlow Park and check out Lauderdale House, which hosts events, an art gallery and a cafe overlooking a beautiful tea lawn. Continue down Swains Lane for the fresh catches from fishmonger and seafood bar, London Shell Co, before getting to the heath. Then walk back up Fitzroy Park and reach Pond Square, where George Michael lived, and have a drink at The Flask. Finish with a wander round Highgate Village. Round off your day with a wonderfully calming Pilates class, by checking out Highgate Pilates.”

highgatepilates.co.uk

NAOMI BOURNE FOUNDER OF HIGHGATE PILATES

FOOD & DRINK

THE FAMILY-ORIENTATED NORTH-LONDON NEIGHBOURHOOD OFFERS COMFORTABLE DINING OPTIONS FOR BOOKINGS BOTH BIG AND SMALL

NAMAASTE HIGHGATE

4 South Grove

Founded by award-winning chef, Sabbir Karim, Namaaste is redefining Indian street food with delectable home-style cooking. Diners can expect all the classic dishes and treats from various regions across India including tandooris, biryanis, and breads. With three branches across London, Namaaste has become a neighbourhood favourite for a reason. namaastehighgate.co.uk

THE ANGEL INN

37 Highgate High Street

The beautifully-restored and vibrant pub was frequented by Graham Chapman and the Monty Python cast who wrote their worldfamous sketches in this corner of Highgate. Seasonal menus are carefully crafted to fulfil any food cravings from light snacks to Sunday roasts. Get into the community spirit with its pub quiz every Tuesday, and for music fans, live jazz takes place on the first Wednesday of every month.

theangelhighgate.co.uk

THE FLASK

77 Highgate West Hill

Perched on a quiet corner of the West Hill, the Flask serves classic British pub food. Named after the tradition of selling flasks

from the pub which were used to collect water from the springs of Hampstead Heath, the pub’s history stems back to the 17th century. Patrons once included poets Byron and Keats as well as English painter and printmaker, William Hogarth. theflaskhighgate.com

THE GATEHOUSE

1 North Road

Head chef Chris Payne only uses the finest ingredients from sustainable producers to create a British menu with a strong Spanish influence. The independent pub also offers a wide selection of international wines to accompany dishes such as paella, lamb tagine and couscous, and lemon sole with seaweed butter. thegatehousen6.com

DON CICCIO

1A Hampstead Lane

In the middle of Highgate Village, Don Ciccio brings traditional Italian cuisine to N6. The restaurant is known as the ‘home of Italian truffle ’, all sourced from the north-west region of Piedmont, adding more aromatic flavour to a host of delicious dishes. donciccio-highgate.co.uk

SCHOOLS

Highgate is an area known for its excellent schools. The co-ed Highgate School (highgateschool.org.uk), below, on North Road is one of the most heralded schools in the country, with Old Cholmeleians including composer John Rutter and poet John Betjeman (who was taught by T.S Eliot at the school). For Highgate’s pre-prep and junior school, a new school-street scheme on Bishopswood Road is designed to create a safer environment for school runs. In the senior school, both pupil and staff are building a supportive community, with year

GATHER ROUND

Top to bottom: Independent pub delights at The Gatehouse; For British literary and artistic history, go to The Flask; Namaaste delivers delicious Indian street food plates

12s launching a podcast to discuss issues that matter to them. For pre-prep children there's Avenue Nursery (avenuepreprep. co.uk) on Highgate Avenue which began life as a small nursery in 1977 and caters for pupils until year 2. For girls aged 4-18, there's Channing School Juniors on Highgate High Street and Seniors on The Bank (channing. co.uk). Independent Girls’ School of the Year in 2022, South Hampstead Girls School (shhs. gdst.net), whose motto is 'mehr licht' ('more light') welcomes new head, Mrs Anna Paul who joins from Godolphin & Latymer.

ON THE MARKET

Hot property

COVERING

AN ARRAY OF ARCHITECTURAL PERIODS, PROPERTIES HERE APPEAL TO A SPECTRUM OF BUYERS

Ask an aгnt

THE GREY HOUSE, SWAIN’S LANE

This four-bedroom house has starred in several television shows, and with good reason. Overlooking the outer edge of Highgate Cemetery and beside Waterlow Park, its unique location and architectural merit make it a rare find. Guide price £6.5m Agents: beauchamp.com; knightfrank.co.uk

“Highgate and the surrounding areas are affluent suburbs with many residents known for being in the media, arts and sports. Also attracting families with its village-like feel and community spirit, yet moments away from the capital, it's no wonder the area has such a draw. There's high demand for properties from both international and UK buyers and tenants looking to secure their next London home. The area is known for its beautifully eclectic mix of styles, with one-bedroom flats selling from around £300,000 while grand detached six-bedroom homes can fetch north of £7m.

CHOLMELEY PARK

A three-bedroom third-floor apartment with a 600 sq ft double-aspect reception in this handsome Grade II listed property situated just moments from Highgate Village. £3.75m Agent: dexters.co.uk

HIGHFIELDS GROVE

This detached four-bedroom family home sits in an exclusive gated development situated directly off Fitzroy Park. The house occupies an elevated position. £5.85m Agent: knightfrank.co.uk

One of my favourite streets is Fitzroy Park because of its several excellent schools and close proximity to the Heath.” dexters.co.uk

MARK SUMRAY Director of Dexters Highgate office

Are we set for an AUTUMN CHILL?

Looking at London’s prime property market in mid-2023 is not unlike scrutinising one of MC Escher’s staircases. Is it going up or down, approaching or retreating, light or dark? What is illusion and what’s real? So much, it seems, is a matter of perception.

Unlike these mind-bending walkways, however, there are some indisputable fundamentals. July saw the 14th interest rate rise in a row, which means – with rates now at 5.25 per cent – borrowing costs are at their highest in 15 years, the time of the global financial crash. Rates are forecast to hit 6 per cent by the end of this year before they start to come down again.

But it all depends how you view it. “Fourteen consecutive interest rises may appear dramatic”, says James Waight, regional director at John D Wood & Co, “but it’s essential for both buyers and sellers to maintain a measured perspective. While rising interest rates may introduce some adjustments and consideration, they shouldn’t deter those looking to buy or sell properties.”

Also, mortgages don’t even figure in the picture for a large slice of buyers in prime London. Nearly half (49 per cent) of sales in Kensington & Chelsea are to cash buyers, and 44 per cent in Westminster, according to JLL figures. “Most of our clients aren’t borrowing. It’s

something they may have done in the past because it was cheap rather than they had to, whereas now they’re not leveraging as much and using their own equity instead,” concurs Guy Meacock, director of Savills’ buying agency, Prime Purchase.

As Mohamed Zaghloul, director of sales for JLL’s Residential Mayfair office points out, too, the super-rich always know where to find opportunity. “High net-worth and ultra-high net-worth occupiers would rather have 25-50 per cent leverage spread out over five to ten years, as the opportunity cost of utilising cash for other income-generating investments outweighs the cost of capital at the current rates.”

rather dismal summer, and now those looking to buy or sell property may be fearing an autumn chill.

IT’S ESSENTIAL FOR BOTH BUYERS AND SELLERS TO MAINTAIN A MEASURED PERSPECTIVE

“This is an uncertain market,” admits Anthony Payne, LonRes’s managing director, “which means there’s no longer an urgency from buyers or sellers to act.” There’s a healthy number of buyer enquiries, he adds, but there isn’t the confidence to commit – so transaction levels are falling. “And agents are nervous about applying too much pressure on those deals midway to completion in case they have the reverse effect of closing them down,” says Payne.

But what about the significant fall (-12.3 per cent) in the number of properties under offer in the first half of this year, compared with the same period in 2022? Or the 24.2 per cent drop in sales in that timeframe, all according to LonRes’s latest number-crunching? Add to that a 6.4 per cent increase in the number of properties withdrawn from the market and a 27.4 per cent increase in price reductions. And, let’s face it, the weather has been rubbish. That never helps sentiment in any sphere. We skipped spring for a

But you could look at it with a different perspective. “Deals are still being done, and even though fall-throughs are significantly higher this year compared with 2017-2019, the number of withdrawals is down compared to pre-pandemic,” says Payne. He also sets today’s picture in historical context; the downturn 15 years ago saw sales and new instructions fall by more than half. “The downturn in activity in prime London took a couple of years from peak to trough. But then the recovery in sales prices was quite swift, whereas recovery in the wider UK market was much slower.”

London’s “upper echelons” are known for

Against a backdrop of interest rate rises, the prime London market this month may be uncertain but not without opportunity, writes Zoe Dare Hall

49% ALMOST HALF OF SALES IN KENSINGTON & CHELSEA ARE MADE TO CASH BUYERS

FALL BACK? This autumn the property market faces uncertainty which is slowing down even prime London’s movements. However, there remain positive factors at play, such as needs-based (often cash) buyers as well as strong salary growth, lockdown savings

their resilience, adds Marcus Dixon, JLL’s director of UK residential research. He notes that £10m+ properties saw a 0.8 per cent fall in sold prices in the year to June, while sub£2m properties have lost an average of 6.7 per cent in the same period. The reason most likely is that the super-rich are less impacted by rising interest rates.

Pete Bevan, co-head of Savills

Prime Central London, agrees. “Interest-rate rises are not of huge concern to the top end of the market.” A bigger factor, he adds, is the inflation cost of refurbishment works. “Sentiment is cooling over taking on large renovation projects of big houses.”

June was the highest month this year for sales agreed in Savills’ Fulham office, chips in the branch’s Tom Reeves. “No-nonsense

buyers are still highly motivated and keen to transact,” says Reeves, referring to such “needs-based buyers” as parents upsizing due to growing families and equity-rich older parents helping their children on to the property ladder.

There has been a “marked uptick”, says Reeves, in the number of landlords who are looking to sell. He puts that down to “the inability to offset debt for tax efficiency” combined with higher interest-rate payments. “The numbers don’t stack up,” agrees JLL’s Mohamed Zaghloul, who reports a drop in buy-to-let investors. Some HNW vendors are plugging the gap, though. “They’ve opted to rent out their properties for now and capitalise on the rent premiums that we’ve been witnessing,” Zaghloul adds.

Prime London doesn’t operate in a vacuum, however. “Sentiment has been affected by what’s happening outside of Zone 1,” says Tom Bill, Knight Frank’s head of UK residential research. International buyers are still benefitting from PCL prices being 16 per cent below their last peak in mid-2015, “but they will need to keep one eye on the gradually strengthening pound”.

Ultimately, though, he frames the picture in a positive light. “The fact that London house prices were relatively flat throughout the pandemic means there’s less far to fall. Consistent demand will be supported by the shock-absorber effects of strong wage growth, lockdown savings, the availability of longer mortgage terms, flexibility from lenders and the growing popularity of fixed-rate deals in recent years.”

As Escher well knew, what’s going up for one person is going down for another. It’s all a question of how you see it – which depends on where you’re standing at the time. L

and flexibility from mortgage lenders

27.4% INCREASE IN PRICE REDUCTIONS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2023 (SOURCE: LONRES)

DEALS ARE STILL BEING DONE, EVEN THOUGH FALL-THROUGHS ARE SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER THIS YEAR

PHOTOGRAPHS: ALAMY/JEFF GILBERT

ANNE ASHWORTH

Amid the political row over the Ultra Low Emission Zone (U LEZ), it ’s easy to forget that London’s air quality has been a perennial concern since the 13th century.

But the efforts to tackle the problem have also given us examples of the innovation that continues to make this a great city to live in We tend not to stop believing in better, even if there are disagreements and failures along the way. Nobody listened, for example, when diarist John Evelyn complained about ‘the inconveniencie of the aer and smoak ’ in his 1661 polemic Fumifugium , which presented remedies to the dangers this posed.

The first constructive attempt to limit toxins in the atmosphere came in 1858, the year of the Great Stink. Such was overwhelming and unsanitary stench from animal, human and industrial waste dumped into the Thames that the government ordered the building of Joseph Bazalgette’s sewage system. This groundbreaking (quite literally) scheme involved narrowing the river and building the Albert, Chelsea and Victoria embankments. Today it ranks as one of the world’s most successful urban regeneration projects.

Another crisis sparked the Clean Air Act of 1956 which aimed to limit emissions from the burning of coal and gas. The legislation was passed in response to the death toll of the Great Smog of December 1952 which, as has been subsequently established, claimed as many as 12,000 lives.

This four-day London pea-souper fog featured in episode four of the first season of the Netflix series The Crown . When the drama first aired in 2016, Londoners watching the scenes of streets enveloped in

lethal grey-green fog and hospital wards with people struggling for breath pondered on the impact of the recently announced U LEZ

The aim of this road-pricing measure was to dispel the invisible pollution of the 21st century caused by cars – which, as Imperial College calculates, prematurely ends 4,000 lives a year – and City Hall says that it has been more than effective.

Toxic nitrogen dioxide concentrations are estimated to be 46 per cent lower in central

London and 21 per cent lower in inner London than they would have been without the £12.50 -a- day levy for driving a car that doesn’t meet emission standards in the zone. This is really good news for anyone who lives, works or studies within these locations.

London has made a long-term investment in the health of its residents: encouraging for anyone thinking of raising a family there.

However, change on this scale doesn’t come without cost and controversy. Last month the U LEZ , the world’s largest and possibly strictest clean air zone, was extended to the outer boroughs, Bexley, Bromley, Harrow and Hillingdon. But this was only after a high court challenge to the move and a near catastrophe for the C onservatives at the by-election in Uxbridge, as car owners rebelled against the imposition of the charge.

Like other towns in these outer boroughs, Uxbridge grew in the 1930s as people fled the inner- city smog seeking homes with gardens and garages for their cars, a form of transport on which today they ’re reliant.

The resentment of Uxbridge residents over the U LEZ extension during the cost- of-living crisis has called into question road-pricing and all other green policies throughout the UK. There may now b e support for those required to scrap non-compliant vehicles. But the affair illustrates the risks of reform without concessions at the outset – and also some visible longer-term tangible benefits.

Bazalgette’s grand project also delivered 25 acres of new parks like Victoria Embankment Ga rdens , which sprang up on the land reclaimed from the river – an upshot of the upheaval of the development. London’s pursuit of a greener future must be driven by the same spirit of compromise. L

Like all of the grand-scale environmental solutions before it, ULEZ will need to benefit the lives of the capital’s residents in many far-reaching ways

Toxic nitrogen dioxide concentrations are estimated to be 46% lower in central London with ULEZ

EXTRA BLOOM Victoria Embankment Gardens were a perk of 1865’s new sewerage system design

ON THE MARKET SALES

FOR SALE

Prime Chelsea Location

Elm Park Gardens, Chelsea SW10 South Kensington Underground Station: 0.6 miles

Exceptional refurbished first-floor apartment in the heart of Chelsea and convenient for both Fulham Road and Kings Road. Reception room, principal en suite bedroom, further 2 bedrooms, family bathroom and separate studio. Leasehold (Lease Expiry 2197) | Peppercorn Ground

Rent | Service Charge £2,700 per annum (reviewed annually) | Council Tax Band = G | EPC = C

1,398 sq ft | Guide £2.35 million

Olivia Leigh

Savills Chelsea

020 7578 9022

olivia.leigh@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

Belgravia Family Apartment

Eaton Place, Belgravia SW1X Hyde Park: 0.5 miles, Sloane Square: 0.6 miles

Impressive apartment arranged across three floors set within a handsome Grade II listed building 2 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, guest cloakroom and office. Leasehold (Lease Expiry

3018) | Peppercorn Ground Rent | Service Charge £10,232 per annum (reviewed annually) |

Council Tax Band = H | EPC = D

2,767 sq ft I Guide £4.75 million

Tom Wilson

Savills Sloane Street

020 7824 9049

twilson@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

Lateral Family Apartment

Drayton Gardens, Chelsea SW10 Gloucester Road Underground Station: 0.5 miles

Stunning apartment located in the attractive residential mansion block Drayton Court in the heart of Chelsea. Reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, principal en suite bedroom, further 3 bedrooms (1 en suite) and family bathroom. Share of Freehold (Lease Expiry 2974) | Peppercorn Ground Rent |

Service Charge £5,932.68 per annum (reviewed annually) | Council Tax Band = G | EPC = C

1,858 sq ft | Guide £2.85 million

George Lee

Savills Chelsea

020 7578 9009

george.lee@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

Spectacular Penthouse

Hans Crescent, Knightsbridge SW1X Knightsbridge Underground Station: 0.2 miles

Immaculately presented apartment set within an attractive period building adjacent to the iconic Harrods store. Open-plan reception room, principal bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms (1 en suite). bathroom, porter and lift. Leasehold (Lease Expiry 2975) | Ground Rent £250 per annum (reviewed annually) | Service Charge £20,000 per annum (reviewed annually) | Council Tax Band = G | EPC = E

2,255 sq ft I Guide £5.5 million

Tom Wilson

Savills Sloane Street

020 7824 9049

twilson@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

House with Private Garden

Sussex Square, Connaught Village W2 Paddington Station: 0.3 miles

Stunning property offering a blend of classic elegance and contemporary luxury. Dual aspect reception room with terrace, kitchen/dining room, 6 bedrooms (5 en suite), further bathroom, utility room, sauna, balcony, garage, patio terrace and private garden.

Freehold | Council Tax Band = H | EPC = E

2,700 sq ft | Guide £3.95 million

Toby Simmonds

Savills Mayfair and St. James’s

020 7578 5109

toby.simmonds@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

Wimpole Street, W1G

£11,500,000

Dating from 1767, this remarkable townhouse has six bedrooms and a garage as well as an interconnecting mews house. The current owners have meticulously restored the principal rooms in keeping with the magnificent Georgian style. With separate street access, the lower ground floor includes a large studio, study and a family room leading to the lower level of the mews which has a bar, cinema and sauna.

Dexters Marylebone. 55 Weymouth Street, London, W1G 8NJ

T: 020 7224 5544 E: marylebonesales@dexters.co.uk

Pont Street, SW1X

£20,000,000

A striking five bedroom home providing extensive living and entertaining space including a formal dining room and a generous kitchen opening onto a patio terrace. On the first floor, there is a grand drawing room with a balcony and on the second floor is the principal bedroom complete with a dressing room and en suite bathroom. Some of the world’s finest shops and Michelin starred restaurants can be found nearby, energy rating d.

Dexters South Kensington & Knightsbridge. 144 Old Brompton Road, London, SW7 4NR

T: 020 7838 0108 E: knightsbridgesales@dexters.co.uk

@dextersestateagents

Park Place, SW1A

£4,500 per week

With the world-renowned Ritz Hotel just around the corner, this exclusive four bedroom apartment is arranged across two floors with an exceptional roof terrace. The home has a bespoke kitchen, games room, study, spa-like principal bathroom and a spacious reception room, mirroring the luxury of London living. Close to Mayfair’s lavish boutiques, department stores and restaurants, this property has it all, energy rating c.

Dexters Mayfair. 66 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3JL

T: 020 7590 9595 E: mayfairlettings@dexters.co.uk

dexters.co.uk

Strand, WC2R

£4,250 per week

Adjacent to the Adelphi Theatre, an impressive two bedroom apartment which has been beautifully refurbished throughout. Steeped in history, this charming home has an abundance of character with a twist of modern living. There is the added bonus of a private terrace and balcony. Ideally located with all the wonders of the West End and the River Thames right on the doorstep, energy rating c.

Dexters Fitzrovia & Covent Garden. 66 Goodge Street, London, W1T 4NG

T: 020 7067 2402 E: fitzrovialettings@dexters.co.uk

Upper Brook Street, Mayfair W1K

Abingdon Road, Kensington W8

Ivory House, St Katharine Docks E1W

Abingdon Road, Kensington W8

Olivia Morris feeling confused - 5h

Do I have to disclose my neighbour's personality before a sale?

3 comments

Lydia Campbell

Is that uncle Jamie?

Edith Morris

This reminds me of when I bought my first property back in the 50’s.

Jamie Morris

Hey!

Friends and family can't answer all your questions

Just Ask John D Wood & Co.

With 150 years of expertise in selling and letting homes, we are adept at captaining the stormy waters of the property world.

Book a valuation with us today.

Walton Place, SW3

This charming four/five bedroom, white stucco fronted home, offers an abundance of living space arranged over five floors. Walton Place is moments away from Harrods and the amenities of Knightsbridge. Approx. 4,042 sq ft. Energy Rating: E. Council Tax: H. 4/5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, double reception room, dining room, bar, kitchen, kitchenette, balcony, two terraces, courtyard.

Freehold | Guide Price £12,950,000 | Cadogan Street - 020 3151 5032

Trusted for generations

johndwood.co.uk

Russell Williamson Sales - Cadogan Street

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Linden Gardens, W2

This captivating Grade II listed family house exemplifies architectural brilliance. The property boasts a charming low-built structure enveloped by a well-established garden. Linden Gardens is located a short distance from both Notting Hill Gate and Kensington Gardens. Approx. 2,098 sq ft. Energy Rating: C. Council Tax: G. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), cloakroom, reception/kitchen/dining room, studio/kitchen, terrace, cellar, off-street parking

Freehold | Guide Price £5,950,000 | Notting Hill - 020 3151 3898

Gabriella Krejci Sales - Notting Hill

Rainsborough Square, SW6

A beautifully presented, four-bedroom family home set within a secluded development of secure and contemporary townhouses arranged around a spacious landscaped private garden square. Rainsborough Square is located moments away from the amenities and transport links of Fulham Broadway and open spaces of Eel Brook Common. Approx. 2,915 sq ft. Energy Rating: B. Council Tax: H .

johndwood.co.uk

Huw Jones Sales - Fulham Broadway

Lymington, SO41

Cornwall Gardens, Kensington SW7

£2,500,000

A spacious three bedroom apartment in excellent condition, on the first floor of a portered building in the heart of South Kensington.

Three bedrooms | Three bathrooms | Large reception | Lift Garden access | 1,407 sq ft | EPC Rating C | Leasehold

020 4571 9550

SOUTHKENSINGTON.SALES@KFH.CO.UK

Lancaster Gate, Bayswater W2

£1,325,000

A bright two bedroom apartment set on the top floor of an attractive Grade II listed building, moments from Kensington Gardens.

Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms | West facing reception Period conversion | Lift | 800 sq ft | EPC Rating E Freehold

020 4525 3278

BAYSWATER.SALES@KFH.CO.UK

kfh.co.uk

Cadogan Street, Chelsea SW3

£7,500 pcm

A marvellous three bedroom

Georgian house with an open plan kitchen leading to a secluded private garden, located within a short walk of Sloane Square.

Three bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Large Georgian windows Private rear garden | 1,438 sq ft | EPC Rating D

Unfurnished

020 3040 6380

SOUTHKENSINGTON.LETTINGS@KFH.CO.UK

Nevern Square, Earls Court SW5

£6,995 pcm

An impressive three bedroom split level apartment, finished to the highest standard, situated in one of Earls Court’s premier garden squares.

Three bedrooms | Private garden | Wooden floors throughout Recently refurbished | 1,132 sq ft | Peaceful location

Furnished

020 4579 1907

EARLSCOURT.LETTINGS@KFH.CO.UK

kfh.co.uk

Lowndes Place, Knightsbridge SW1X

Asking price £20,000,000

An outstanding newly refurbished Grade II five-bedroom lateral residence with a large south-west facing garden, situated on one of Belgravia’s finest streets, with the benefit of its own private gated street entrance.

4,260 sq ft (395.7 sq m)

Entrance hall | Reception rooms | Kitchen | TV room | Five bedrooms

Five bathrooms | Guest cloakroom | Three vaults | Garden EPC rating D | Council tax band H | Share of freehold

Sloane Street 020 7235 9959 | sloanestreet@struttandparker.com

/struttandparker @struttandparker struttandparker.com

Over 45 offices across England and Scotland, including prime Central London.

which

Billing Street, Chelsea SW10

£2,150,000

Freehold

Onslow Square, South Kensington SW7

£1,995 per week

Unfurnished

A stunning three double bedroom house with a garden and  terrace in the popular private Chelsea road offering off-street parking.

1,353 sq ft (125.7 sq m)

Reception room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Bathroom | Shower room | Garden | Terrace | EPC rating C | Council tax band G

Chelsea SW10 020 7373 1010 | ChelseaSW10@struttandparker.com

Delvino Road, Fulham SW6

£3,000 per week

Unfurnished

An exceptionally bright triple aspect three-bedroom apartment on the second floor, with lift and caretaker, overlooking Onslow Square.

1,402 sq ft (130.25 sq m)

Reception room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Two bathrooms

Communal gardens | Residents parking | Lift | Concierge

EPC rating C | Council tax band H

South Kensington 020 4525 2870 | southkensington@struttandparker.com

Chepstow Villas, Notting Hill W11

£12,000 per week

Furnished

A truly exceptional and fully extended five-bedroom family house which has undergone a full renovation, offering stylish and contemporary living on this prime Parsons Green Road.

2,976 sq ft (276 sq m)

Reception room | Kitchen/dining room | Family room | Six bedrooms | Four bathrooms | Two guest cloakrooms | Utility Garden | EPC rating C | Council tax band G

Fulham 020 7731 7100 | fulham@struttandparker.com

A stunning seven-bedroom family home boasting excellently proportioned accommodation throughout that has been finished with a clever combination of modern and classic fittings.

4,376 sq ft (406.5 sq m)

Two reception rooms | Kitchen | Dining room | Seven bedrooms

Six bathrooms | Games room | Utility | Wine cellar | Garden | Pool

Off-street parking | EPC rating D | Council tax band H

Notting Hill 020 7221 1111 | nottinghill@struttandparker.com

*After an offer is accepted by the Landlord, which is subject to contract and acceptable references, the following charges and fees will be payable before the commencement of the tenancy: Preparation of Tenancy Agreement £222 (Inc VAT), /struttandparker @struttandparker struttandparker.com

Over 45 offices across England and Scotland, including prime Central London.

Dover Street, Mayfair W1S

£1,500 per week

Unfurnished

Cannon Lane, Hampstead NW3

£3,750,000 Freehold

An immaculately presented two-bedroom (unfurnished) flat situated on the seventh floor of this modern residential building ideally located just north of Piccadilly, close to Green Park.

1,046 sq ft (97 sq m)

Reception room | Kitchen | Two bedrooms | Two bathrooms

Roof terrace | EPC rating B | Council tax band G

Sloane Street 020 7235 9959 | sloanestreet@struttandparker.com

Elm Place, South Kensington SW7

£4,250,000 Freehold

Retaining a wealth of period features, a stunning home that has been sympathetically refurbished. The accommodation is arranged over three floors with an established, walled private garden.

1,737 sq ft (161 sq m)

Reception room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms | Two bathrooms

Cloakroom | Study | Garden | EPC rating D | Council tax band H

Hampstead 020 7591 2225 | hampstead@struttandparker.com

Thames Point, Imperial Wharf SW6

£1,500,000

Leasehold

A stunning double fronted Grade II listed Georgian three-bedroom freehold house with charming garden, found on this postcard perfect South Kensington/Chelsea terrace, offered in immaculate condition.

1,445 sq ft (134.2 sq m)

Drawing room | Kitchen | Dining room | Three bedrooms

Main bathroom | Shower room | Utility outbuilding | Garden | Front garden | Residents parking | EPC rating D | Council tax band H

South Kensington 020 4525 2870 | southkensington@struttandparker.com

Experience riverside living at its finest in this three-bedroom apartment overlooking the River Thames.

1,343 sq ft (124.86 sq m)

Entrance hall | Reception room | Kitchen | Three bedrooms

Three bathrooms | Utility | Two balconies | EPC rating C

Council tax band G

Fulham 020 7731 7100 | fulham@struttandparker.com

Strutt & Parker is a trading style of BNP Paribas Real Estate Advisory & Property Management UK Limited, which provides a full range of services across the residential, commercial and the rural property sectors.

LANCASTER MEWS, BAYSWATER, W2 £3,450,000 FREEHOLD

Situated a stone’s throw from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park is this stunning dual aspect three-storey house. Located on a charming cul-de-sac mews, the home includes a private terrace and garage. EPC: E. Council Tax Band: G.

This exquisite family home occupies a generous corner plot, offering extensive living and entertaining space across four levels. The stunning open plan kitchen/dining room leads out to a generous South facing garden. EPC: C. Council Tax Band: F.

GARDENS, CHISWICK, W4

reception rooms A beautiful lateral apartment set on the first floor of this charming Grade II Listed building. The home provides incredible entertaining spaces and a terrace, with lovely period detail throughout.

A beautiful Grade II listed townhouse spanning over 2,600 sq. ft. and boasting an abundance of period features and natural light as well as a privileged location. The property further benefits from three reception rooms perfect for entertaining, a cellar, and a conservatory which leads onto the garden. Rowland King – Sales Director 020 7182 1400 rowland.king@chestertons.co.uk

This superb family home, arranged over four floors, has been refurbished to a very high standard and benefits from private parking for two cars. Main highlights include a contemporary open-plan kitchen/ dining area, a beautiful glass spiral staircase, a lovely west-facing garden, and two terraces.

Dawn Platt – Sales Director

This mid-terrace house is set over four floors and spans approx. 2,800 sq. ft. The property features a gated entrance, a laundry room, a conservatory, a private rear garden, and an additional terrace off the master bedroom.

Everyone at Chestertons, the first large estate agency to be certified as Net Zero Carbon in the UK, is committed to having a positive impact on the environment. Some of the schemes we invested money to help reduce carbon emissions across the world include:

– Replacing our fleet with electric BMW i3s lowering our carbon footprint by over 20 tonnes per year

– Protecting the Amazon rainforest from deforestation and degradation through the Brazilian Amazon Verified Carbon Standard Program

– Production and distribution of water purifiers in rural Cambodia to prevent pollution and deforestation

– Tree planting in the UK

To download Chestertons’ free guide to becoming greener visit: bit.ly/chestertons-green-guide

CHESTER PLACE

REGENT’S PARK, NW1

A beautifully refurbished Grade I Listed residence (387 sq m/4,169 sq ft) situated within this sought-after Nash terrace located directly opposite Regent’s Park.

The house provides extensive family accommodation including an elegant first floor drawing room with floor to ceiling windows whilst the entire second floor is devoted to an indulgent principal bedroom suite.

The property also benefits from a private courtyard garden and residents only off-street parking. Chester Place is superbly located on the eastern side of Regent’s Park providing easy access to both the West End and the City.

Principal Bedroom with 2 Dressing Rooms & Large En-Suite Bathroom, 3 Further Bedrooms (All with En-Suite Bathrooms), Drawing Room, Family Room, Reception Room, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Guest Cloakroom, Utility Room, Storage Vaults, Surround Sound System, Patio Garden, Residents Parking.

Council Tax: H. EPC: D.

Freehold Joint Sole Agents Asking Price: £7,950,000

info@bps.london

+44 (0) 20 7831 1191

Butlers Wharf Building, Shad Thames, SE1

Riverfront warehouse conversion with residents’ parking

£2,500,000 | Share of freehold | EPC: C

A large two-bedroom riverfront warehouse conversion in the historic Butlers Wharf Building, with allocated parking, a private balcony, and two refurbished bathrooms. Positioned on the third floor, the apartment has retained some original characteristics, including exposed brickwork. The generous size of the reception room creates definitive living, working and dining areas. It leads onto a spacious balcony overlooking the Thames, delivering stunning views towards Tower Bridge, the City, and Canary Wharf to the East.

The primary bedroom benefits from an en-suite shower room, and there is a further guest shower room and a guest WC in the entrance hallway.

Spice Quay Heights, Shad Thames, SE1

Three-bedroom riverfront apartment offering spectacular views

O.I.E.O £2,000,000 | Leasehold | EPC: D

This unique three-bedroom riverfront apartment occupies a prime corner position in the building and delivers spectacular views of the River Thames, Canary Wharf and Tower Bridge.

The home enjoys abundant natural light via floor-to-ceiling windows, with the large reception room offering a spacious area for living and dining. The fully integrated kitchen sits separately but benefits from an opening into the living space. The three bedrooms are en-suite doubles, all beautifully presented with fitted storage. Further benefits include comfort cooling throughout the property, guest cloakroom and storage in the hallway.

Spice Quay Heights is located centrally in Shad Thames, benefiting from 24 hour concierge, secure underground parking and use of leisure facilities, including gymnasium and swimming pool.

Princedale Road, W11

£3,000,000

Finished to a high standard throughout, this exceptional three bedroom house provides excellent living space across four floors. On the lower ground floor there is a large kitchen, a dining room and a reception area, perfect for entertaining friends and family. The raised ground floor has a double reception room which opens onto a patio garden. Positioned on a sought after street close to the local amenities and the green spaces of Holland Park, energy rating c.

Three Bedrooms | Two Reception Rooms | Two Bathrooms | Patio Garden | Freehold

Call: 020 7605 6890 | Email: hollandpark_sales@marshandparsons.co.uk | marshandparsons.co.uk

Thornton Place, W1H

£4,000,000

Situated on a tranquil Marylebone mews is this modern house that has been designed by the renowned Greek Architect, Dionisys Zacharias. On the top floor there is an impressive open plan reception room and kitchen that features a retractable sun roof and access to a balcony, ideal for hosting. Arranged over four floors, the charming home offers five bedrooms and three bathrooms. The closest underground station is Baker Street with its fantastic transport connections, energy rating c.

Five Bedrooms | Open Plan Reception Room | Three Bathrooms | Balcony | Freehold

Call: 020 7935 1775 | Email: marylebonesales@marshandparsons.co.uk | marshandparsons.co.uk

PHILLIMORE TERRACE, KENSINGTON W8

PHILLIMORE TERRACE, KENSINGTON W8

£8,000,000

£8,000,000

Nestled within the heart of the Royal Borough, this highly desirable end-of-terrace home has been redesigned to a high standard whilst retaining its original features and boasting the latest in home technology.

Nestled within the heart of the Royal Borough, this highly desirable end-of-terrace home has been redesigned to a high standard whilst retaining its original features and boasting the latest in home technology.

Five bedrooms | Two Reception Rooms | Off-Street Parking | Garden | Terrace | Newly Refurbished | Air Conditioning throughout | Freehold | Study | Steam Room | 3500 sq ft

Five bedrooms | Two Reception Rooms | Off-Street Parking | Garden | Terrace | Newly Refurbished | Air Conditioning throughout | Freehold | Study | Steam Room | 3500 sq ft

Jamie Marshall | Kensington Sales Director +44 7729 473 104

Jamie Marshall | Kensington Sales Director +44 7729 473 104

jamie.marshall@druce.com

jamie.marshall@druce.com

DAMAC TOWER, NINE ELMS

DAMAC TOWER, NINE ELMS SW8

SW8

£712,000 - £12,846,000

£712,000 - £12,846,000

In an exclusive partnership with Versace Home, DAMAC Tower represents the first collaboration between the world-renowned design label and a residential property in London. Studio, 1, 2, 3 & 5 bedroom penthouse apartments available.

In an exclusive partnership with Versace Home, DAMAC Tower represents the first collaboration between the world-renowned design label and a residential property in London. Studio, 1, 2, 3 & 5 bedroom penthouse apartments available.

360 Luxury Residences | 8,010 sq ft of Communal Gardens | Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi | Private Cinema |

360 Luxury Residences | 8,010 sq ft of Communal Gardens | Indoor Pool & Jacuzzi | Private Cinema |

Two Car Lifts | Children's Play Areas | State-Of-The-Art Gym

Two Car Lifts | Children's Play Areas | State-Of-The-Art Gym

Zenonas Georgiou | New Homes Manager +44 7854669205

Zenonas Georgiou | New Homes Manager +44 7854669205

zenonas.georgiou@druce.com

zenonas.georgiou@druce.com

WARWICK SQUARE, SW1V

A two bedroom apartment which spans across one of the Thomas Cubbit historical family homes. With far reaching views across the capital and access to the award-winning gardens of Warwick Square, energy rating c.

• Two Bedrooms

• Private Balcony

• Open Plan Kitchen

• Top Floor

• Two Bathrooms

• Grade II Listed

£1,200,000 - LEASEHOLD

GLOUCESTER STREET, SW1V

Positioned on the top two floors, this spacious apartment offers excellent entertaining space. There is an open plan reception room with a dining area, two double bedrooms and a private terrace, energy rating e.

• Two Bedrooms • Large Reception Room • Split-Level

• Two Bathrooms • Private Terrace • Pimlico Grid

£1,125,000 - LEASEHOLD

Cadogan Square

London SW1X

Guide price £16,900,000

A stunning duplex five-bedroom apartment overlooking the famous Cadogan Square with its own private entrance.

Private entrance • Principal bedroom Suite with walk-in dressing area and walk-in shower • 4 further bedrooms •

Period features • Grade II listed •

Landscaped courtyard garden • High ceilings • West facing • Access to Cadogan Square and tennis court by separate arrangement • Resident porter

Mayfair & St James’s 020 7493 0676

mayfair@carterjonas.co.uk

The summer issue of Mews News is here at last.

As we navigate uncertain times and face tough choices and nancial pressures, the prospect of a long hot summer o ers a welcome distraction. Whether you’re looking to sell, buy, or rent a home, managing expectations and being realistic about prices and rental values is crucial to maintain momentum in the property market. In this issue, Mollie Swallow, Director & Head of Lettings, explores this topic in her rental article. Additionally, Head of Sales, Billy Harvey’s conversation with property journalist Zoe Dare Hall sheds light on the current state of London’s prime central sales market, emphasizing the importance of perceiving value and nding a pragmatic approach for both sellers and buyers. Martyn John Brown takes us on a nostalgic trip down mews memory lane, re ecting on the glory days of mews properties and reminding owners to cherish their homes. Lastly, don’t miss our interview with a visionary buyer who transformed two derelict mews properties in Junction Mews back in the 1970s. Enjoy the sunshine in London and remember that we’re always here to provide property advice, rain or shine.

A truly sensational 6 bedroom 5 bathroom Victorian house which has been meticulously refurbished and extended to exacting standards with fantastic living/entertaining space on both the ground and lower ground floors and a lovely secluded westerly garden

MELROSE TERRACE W6 £3,335,000

ON THE MARKET

LETTINGS

Ebury Square SW1W

Sloane Square Station 0.3 miles

Wonderfully designed apartment in a special new development, benefiting from a private residents gym. Reception room, principal en suite bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe, further bedroom, concierge service and underground parking. Available from 20/09/2023 | Furnished | Council Tax Band = H | EPC = B

Guide £3,750 pw plus fees apply

Additional Fees:

Deposit £22,500 | Holding Deposit £3,750

Alexa Butler

Savills Sloane Street 020 7824 9077

alexa.butler@savills.com

Belgravia Apartment Exceptional Mews House

Prince’s Mews W2

Notting Hill Gate Station: 0.3 miles

Fantastic house on a quiet cobbled mews in a wonderful location, between Hyde Park and Westbourne Grove. Reception room, open-plan dining room/kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and guest cloakroom. Available now | Furnished | Council Tax Band = G | EPC = C

Guide £1,650 pw plus fees apply

Additional Fees:

Deposit £9,900 | Holding Deposit £1,650

Lauren Robinson

Savills Notting Hill 020 3430 6613

lauren.robinson@savills.com

savills savills.co.uk

Award Winning Family Home

Kensington W14 Kensington Olympia Station: 1.2 miles

Newly refurbished ‘turn key’ terraced house is arranged over five floors with a generous extension and an attractive terrace leading up into the garden. 2 reception rooms, 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, study, utility room and al fresco dining terrace. Available now | Unfurnished/ Furnished | Council Tax Band = H | EPC = B

Guide £4,900 pw plus fees apply

Additional Fees:

Deposit £29,400 | Holding Deposit £4,900

Louise Good Savills Kensington 020 7535 3333

lgood@savills.com

Outstanding Location

Alexander Square SW3 South Kensington Station: 0.3 miles

Beautiful home set over five floors on the highly sought-after Alexander Square. 3 reception rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, resident parking and private garden. Available from the 06/10/23 | Unfurnished | Council Tax Band = H | EPC = E

Guide £4,400 pw plus fees apply

Additional Fees:

Deposit £26,400 | Holding Deposit £4,400

Danny Daniel Savills Knightsbridge 020 7590 5068

danny.daniel@savills.com

Willow Road, Hampstead NW3

Acacia Road, St John's Wood NW8

SHALCOMB STREET, SW10

www.plazaestates.co.uk

Cadogan Lane, SW1

Stunning, recently renovated 3 bedroom house with access to Cadogan Gardens. 1855 sq ft.

3 Double Bedrooms - 3 Bathrooms - Reception Room - Dining Room - Kitchen - Garage - Access to Communal GardensCouncil Tax Band H - EPC Rating C

Furnished

£1,950 per week *Potential tenants are advised that fees may apply. * please visit www.plazaestates.co.uk/properties-to-rent/information-for-tenants

PARK LIFE

WITH HYDE PARK'S 350 ACRES OF GREEN SPACE ON ITS DOORSTEP, AND ACCESS TO COMMUNAL GARDENS, THIS CITY APARTMENT OFFERS A REAL BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Dylan James, Chestertons: “Hyde Park remains a highly sought-after neighbourhood for today’s discerning buyers , as the area ha s an array of lifestyle amenities on its doorstep. This two-bedroom, two-bathroom stucco-fronted property impresses with a spacious layout and high-spec fi nishes that provide residents with luxurious ambience. Complementing this are the sumptuous fi nishes , which include Gaggenau appliances , Italian g ranite bathrooms and parquet-wood floors. With access to an award-winning communal garden as well as park views, this home, set within a gated development and with convenient parking, really is a gem. The demand for such properties has been extremely high , which will make this property a popular listing with house hunters.”

Hyde Park Gardens is for sale at £2.75m through Chestertons. Call 020 7298 5900 or go to chestertons.co.uk

Making sustainable living beautiful

Artisan homeware handcrafted in England. www.tomraffield.com