Vantage Magazine November 2011 - St Johns Wood Edition

Vantage

COVERING ST JOHN’S WOOD, MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, MARYLEBONE, regent’s park AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

assel T

treasures design duo spina talk about jewellery for the home

Interiors

special

with kelly hoppen, david collins & gillian anderson price

&

fashion travel motoring interiors property N OV E M B E R 2011

i s s u e 1 6

The New Sunseeker Predator 60

www.sunseekerlondon.com

Sunseeker London 36 Davies Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4NF 21-22 Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4QJ Tel: +44 (0)20 7355 0980 Email: info@sunseekerlondon.com

contents

interiors

12

feature

furniture

10 A Thing of Beauty

Talking tassels with Spina Designs

Embrace signature looks that pull your decor together, emulating style and colour in one striking piece 1 Hondrum Coffee Table, florentine gold with glass top, £1,600, Decorus, www.decorusfurniture.co.uk

16 Interiors Boutiques

2 Peking TV CabineT, £975, OKA, www.okadirect.com 3 lama 921 arm CHair, £3,336, Chaplins, www.chaplins.co.uk

4 bubble CHair, £2,745, Kelly Hoppen for Loft Living at Selfridges, www.loftliving.co.uk

5 CaTHy azaria side Table,

£1,200, B&D Design,

www.bd-designs.co.uk

Spotlight on the best NW shops

£4,325, And So To Bed, www.andsotobed.co.uk

3 4

6 5

6 maud bedsTead, from Charleston Collection designed by Nina Campbell,

concierge 37 Exemplary Design

Black and navy evening suit, £695, wing-collar dress shirt with studs, £125, blue and black bow-tie, £45, all

Gieves & Hawkes, No1 Savile Row, W1, 020 7432 6403 Enamel cufflinks, £85, Links of London 0845 1202922, www.linksoflondon.com

Global style from the best interior designers

46 The Trend

C reating a perfect gentleman’s study

50 Vintage Treasures

S earching for antiques in Primrose Hill

collection

One

Fine Day

Photographer:

Jon Cottam Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

80 East Meets West

Sparkly inspiration from the Orient

interview feature

I

81 Red or Black

Mix and match these bold colours

calibre

84 Fuel for Thought

Supercar performance from BMW

90 Let Me Entertain You

96 Moroccan Marvels

Decor delights in Marrakech

108 In His Own Words...

A

Thing of Beauty Emma Mills meets the couple behind Spina - interiors experts, lighting designers and re-inventors of the humble tassel - at their home and showroom in West Hampstead; with an exclusive photo shoot by Andreu Doz

Top right: Joe Zito Bottom right: Robbie Spina

t is perhaps no surprise that one half of the team behind the awe-inspiring interiors brand Spina started off life as a model and actor. Beauty and drama has always been at the centre of what Spina is all about - bringing luxury decoration to the home with a certain whimsical flair - and Robbie Spina’s earlier career is exactly what led him here.

Sardinia-born Robbie worked in England as a model, actor and interiors stylist, before a chance encounter in London inspired him to create what would eventually become Spina’s signature piece: decadent and divine tassels.

“I was doing some work for Harpers & Queen on a feature about feathers. We had to go a feather merchant in the East End and I was completely, completely overwhelmed by what I saw there.”

Joe Zito, his partner, interrupts. “You were more inspired than overwhelmed, though?” Robbie nods and smiles. “Yes. It was absolutely packed with all types of feathers, of all colours – things like bright orange and pea green. Usually they were used for theatrical costumes and eveningwear; but I thought maybe we should get something adapted for interiors.

It would be amazing, totally unusual.” Having always been inspired by the little details that bring a room together, Robbie set about turning feathers into tassels, and the now iconic (and recognisable worldwide) Spina tassel born.

Tassels might seem like a simple thing to work on, but Robbie’s expert eye has evolved something ordinary and ancient into something luxurious and exclusive. ‘Jewellery for the home’, as they sometimes describe their pieces, is a fascinating concept and one that Spina has been largely responsible for driving forward. “We seem to now have developed the idea of ‘expert finishes’,” says Joe. “So you’ve got interior designers from all around the world who do great work, but obviously there are some core trends, colours and fashions they work around. We come in at a different angle and finish off the room, I suppose. We do the unusual matches. Let’s match your footstool to your curtain fringe, or let’s make a chandelier with soft furnishings.”

In essence, Spina offer decoration for the home - tassels, cushions, fabrics and fringes; as well as striking lighting design and sculpture, created by artist Joe. “Around the time Robbie’s tassels were starting to take off, my paintings were becoming mini-sculptures and then the sculptures became lighting installations,” he explains. “Suddenly this wonderful marriage of what Robbie was using to create the tassels presented itself.” With Robbie having created a series of crystal tassels, Joe realised he could turn this into the light sculptures he was making. “I started making the kind of lights I do now, because I couldn’t see anything around like them, and I thought let’s do something really glamorous, contemporary but modern.”

This was the start of a partnership that has lasted over ten years, won numerous awards and is now recognised as an international brand demanded by the very best designers.

Though, when the couple talk me through their first clients, this is perhaps not too surprising. Not content with starting at the bottom, Joe and Robbie pitched their products to the hottest designers and the best retailers around. “We went to see people like David Collins and Kelly Hoppen straight away, who started using our tassels in their projects, and then at the same time we went into Harrods, and that was when it really got serious,” says Robbie.

11

AEGON Masters preview

connoisseur

David Collins talks design

concierge comment

regulars 21 fashion

89 sports

35 interiors

95 travel

59 beauty

105 food & drink

71 collection

112 out & about

84 motoring

115 property

53

about us...

RUNWILD M

Homes, interiors, interviews, gardens, food, family, fashion and travel: Every month VANTAGE delivers the definitive lifestyle guide boasting the best life has to offer.

With carefully selected lead interviews and stories, our team of writers brings to life the people, personalities and places that are both relevant and inspirational.

VANTAGE is the latest publication from dynamic, independent publishing house Runwild Media (RWM). The ethos of high-quality and intelligent editorial combined with a stylish aesthetic has helped them carve a niche in the field of luxury publishing.

Specialising in bespoke, luxury titles with exclusive partnerships (including Canary Wharf Group, British Land, The Royal Exchange, Visit London, The O2 and many more) the company is rapidly expanding its portfolio with many new exciting magazine launches coming soon.

E

D

I

A

G

R

O

U

P

Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Editor

Emma Mills

Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds

Assistant Editors Gabrielle Lane Richard Brown

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

contributors...

Senior Designer Dalton Butler

Designer

Ashley Lewis

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Production Daniel Harris

Advertising Manager Kate Oxbrow

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

1. Andreu Doz

grew up in charismatic Barcelona, before moving to London in 2006 to study at Goldsmith University. He nows works fulltime as a photographer, specialising in location and portrait shots.

2. Matthew Carter is

Managing Director

a London-based freelance journalist who has been writing about cars for most of his working life.

A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner.

Eren Ellwood

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London E14 4JB T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 www.runwildmedia.com

Vantage

COVERING ST JOHN’S WOOD, MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, MARYLEBONE, REGENT’S PARk AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

A Thing of Beauty, p. 10 (Image by Andreu Doz, www.andreudoz.com) Runwild Media Group Publishers of: Canary Wharf magazine The City magazine, Vicinitee

Tassel

treasures design duo spina talk about jewellery for the home

InterIors

special

with kelly hoppen, david collins & gillian anderson price

&

fashion travel motoring interiors property NOVEMBER 2011

i s s u e 1 6

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Subscriptions: A free online subscription service is available to VANTAGE, e-mail subscribe@runwildmedia.com for further details.

ASTB_A4_City_Mag_Oct11.indd 1

19/9/11 10:44:16

45 PARK LANE THE HOTEL

CUT

BY WOLFGANG PUCK

55265_011DORCHESTER_City_Oct.indd Pg1 Mundocom UK

21/09/2011 15:56

November

from the editor...

As the nights draw in, the season evolves into Autumn and Christmas approaches, the shifting landscape makes me look for change in other parts of my life too. My wardrobe, for instance, starts to morph into a transitional colour wheel of dark orange, browns, rustic yellows and warm reds. At dinner, we drink more red wine, start cooking with winter squashes and crave soup, not salad. Our travel plans change from beach escapes to skiing holidays and city breaks in snow-capped cities, and we start to think about presents, trees and new year resolutions.

At home, as well, I start to think about interiors projects I’ve been planning over the year.

Now is a great time to refresh your interiors, bringing some much needed light and comfort to the colder months. In honour of this, we’ve dedicated November to the pursuit of perfect interiors, with over 30 pages covering the best designers, the most exciting new trends, unique ideas for your home and some of our top picks in the world of lighting, fabrics and furniture.

In our lead interview this month, we meet interior decoration maestros Robbie Spina and Joe Zito from Spina Design. This dynamic couple are celebrating their tenth year in business and I met them at their beautiful home in West Hampstead, which also functions as their showroom, to talk about working with Harrods, the Beckhams, Kelly Hoppen and Nicky Clarke, amongst others (p. 10) In addition, Gabrielle Lane spends some time pottering about the various boutiques and shops in NW that specialise in interiors (p. 16); we showcase some of the most exciting designer homes from a range of

experts (p. 37); and I travel to Marrakech to see the results of two of the most decadent interior design projects in the world (p. 96).

A wise man once said: “Have nothing in your home that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” But what about being smart too? These days technology is both useful and beautiful. Check out our guide to having the smartest home on the block – think dynamic televisions, or heating, lighting and music all controlled at the touch of a button, and even the absolute best in home cinemas; the lowdown is on p. 54.

If the winter evenings find you hosting numerous dinner parties, then you might think your dining room needs a little sprucing up. Get some inspiration from the great David Collins, restaurant designer extraordinarire, on p. 108.

And, if you’re still stuck for some inspiration for your home, then get yourself to Judith Michael & Daughter in Primrose Hill. A veritable Aladdin’s cave of wonderous and wonderful antique pieces and vintage jewels.

Owner Gillian Anderson Price to talks to me on p. 50 about the latest interiors trends and always buying pieces she really loves.

Keep being inspired...!

Emma Mills Editor

A

Thing of Beauty Emma Mills meets the couple behind Spina - interiors experts, lighting designers and re-inventors of the humble tassel - at their home and showroom in West Hampstead; with an exclusive photo shoot by Andreu Doz

interview

feature

I

Top right: Joe Zito Bottom right: Robbie Spina

t is perhaps no surprise that one half of the team behind the awe-inspiring interiors brand Spina started off life as a model and actor. Beauty and drama has always been at the centre of what Spina is all about - bringing luxury decoration to the home with a certain whimsical flair - and Robbie Spina’s earlier career is exactly what led him here.

Sardinia-born Robbie worked in England as a model, actor and interiors stylist, before a chance encounter in London inspired him to create what would eventually become Spina’s signature piece: decadent and divine tassels.

“I was doing some work for Harpers & Queen on a feature about feathers. We had to go a feather merchant in the East End and I was completely, completely overwhelmed by what I saw there.”

Joe Zito, his partner, interrupts. “You were more inspired than overwhelmed, though?” Robbie nods and smiles. “Yes. It was absolutely packed with all types of feathers, of all colours – things like bright orange and pea green. Usually they were used for theatrical costumes and eveningwear; but I thought maybe we should get something adapted for interiors.

It would be amazing, totally unusual.” Having always been inspired by the little details that bring a room together, Robbie set about turning feathers into tassels, and the now iconic (and recognisable worldwide) Spina tassel born.

Tassels might seem like a simple thing to work on, but Robbie’s expert eye has evolved something ordinary and ancient into something luxurious and exclusive. ‘Jewellery for the home’, as they sometimes describe their pieces, is a fascinating concept and one that Spina has been largely responsible for driving forward. “We seem to now have developed the idea of ‘expert finishes’,” says Joe. “So you’ve got interior designers from all around the world who do great work, but obviously there are some core trends, colours and fashions they work around. We come in at a different angle and finish off the room, I suppose. We do the unusual matches. Let’s match your footstool to your curtain fringe, or let’s make a chandelier with soft furnishings.”

In essence, Spina offer decoration for the home - tassels, cushions, fabrics and fringes; as well as striking lighting design and sculpture, created by artist Joe. “Around the time Robbie’s tassels were starting to take off, my paintings were becoming mini-sculptures and then the sculptures became lighting installations,” he explains. “Suddenly this wonderful marriage of what Robbie was using to create the tassels presented itself.” With Robbie having created a series of crystal tassels, Joe realised he could turn this into the light sculptures he was making. “I started making the kind of lights I do now, because I couldn’t see anything around like them, and I thought let’s do something really glamorous, contemporary but modern.”

This was the start of a partnership that has lasted over ten years, won numerous awards and is now recognised as an international brand demanded by the very best designers.

Though, when the couple talk me through their first clients, this is perhaps not too surprising. Not content with starting at the bottom, Joe and Robbie pitched their products to the hottest designers and the best retailers around. “We went to see people like David Collins and Kelly Hoppen straight away, who started using our tassels in their projects, and then at the same time we went into Harrods, and that was when it really got serious,” says Robbie.

11

“Because we knew the right people it really took off,” adds Joe. “Kelly Hoppen was doing a Christmas charity event and asked us to make some decorations for the tree.

She ended up winning an award for it and started using us for everything. Then David Collins was the same. And at Harrods we just developed a mad association with them.

It’s the most wonderful thing - we ended up doing all their Christmas windows, and we’ve just been commissioned to do their new ones this year.”

“This year’s actually quite important because it’s our tenth anniversary,” says Robbie proudly. Joe smiles, and recalls: “I remember Robbie just said to me one day, ‘I’m going to get an appointment at Harrods’. And I thought, ‘lucky you’ - and then he did!

They took the whole tassel collection, and then someone used them for a window display in 2003 which won an award. That then meant we went into the lighting department and other departments too.”

It’s clear that Spina is something special. Their tassels are the kind of decadent pieces that are designed to delight and decorate in equal measure. Their lighting is bold and iconic and graces some of the most famous shops, hotels and restaurants worldwide. All around their beautiful house and showroom are the most luxurious fabrics and materials available, coupled with purchases from their regular worldwide travels, a source of inspiration for many of their pieces.

“We’re fascinated by different cultures, we have a love affair with Japan, hence a collection we did of dolls, inspired by Japanese tradition,” explains Robbie. “And space and objects really get us going,” adds Joe. He points at a bejewelled cape on a nearby table. “We collected that head dress years ago, bought it in Paris. It’s a wedding cape from a tribe in Tibet where the bride wears black and that cape is handed down from mother to daughter.”

“We do find we get materials from places that wouldn’t normally be associated with interiors - travel for instance, or the catwalk and the fashion industry,” says Robbie.

“We’ve used feathers, crystals, suede, silk, semi-precious stones, even coral.”

And it’s not just interesting materials, the duo have also collaborated with a glut of big names. “It sort of happened organically,” says Robbie. “Everyone at the time was starting to collaborate – even Elton John and Blue had a go – so it was just like, Spina and Wedgewood? Why not?! It’s nice when you work with these established companies and they want a bit of young blood to regenerate the old design.”

In addition to some stunning pieces for Wedgewood, the team has designed window displays for Ralph Lauren, worked on a centrepiece of 6,000 roses for Decorex, collaborated with Kelly Hoppen on the Gary Rhodes restaurant, created a series of pieces for the Beckham’s house in LA, designed pieces with Mulberry, Viktor & Rolfe and Van Cleef & Arpels and showcased a vast, oversized tassel which they called ‘Gargantuan’. “We wanted to create the biggest tassel in the world – something to reignite the idea of what tassels were,” says Robbie. “When you think of tassels, you immediately think of your grandmother or John Lewis or something! We wanted people to see them as something different, something exclusive and luxurious.”

“Which is historically what they used to be,” says Joe. “They used to represent people’s affluence. So if you had one or two tassels at a nobleman’s house it showed that they were quietly and privately saying, ‘look at who I really am’. And we love that idea. We love that you go into a room and that a tassel doesn’t jump out at you straight away, you sort of discover little bits and think, ‘oh my gosh, that’s really exquisite’.”

Does that mean they see what they’re doing as more than mere decoration for the home? “A lot of people insist that what we do is not design or art, it’s just decoration. I don’t know, we just keep on doing what we’re doing. It is what it is. We get commissioned, we make the pieces, our clients love them. And they’re even starting to be auctioned.”

People think, why give such attention to a small object? And we think, why not?

interview

feature

Robbie adds: “I think it’s the same way people feel about fashion sometimes - a haute couture dress. Is it art? Is it fashion? I see it as a work of art.”

It seems, to some degree, that Spina’s work is straddling the worlds of art, interiors and fashion. Is that to be expected? “Well, people do wear our tassels! A lot of girls come here and they see one of these beautiful neck bands or strings of beads and ask if they can borrow them to wear.

And that’s so brilliant. It’s jewellery from the home that you can wear at night!” laughs Robbie.

This approach to stretching the boundaries of what is expected and playing with a well-known object has seen Spina in demand all over the world. “Where we’ve been really lucky is that suddenly you’ll get a call from ‘on high’ – Vogue in America, for instance – saying: ‘Christian Dior has done a dress, can you do a complementary few pieces please?’ And we get to make things for it. So we made some divine tassels for Dior in turquoise gold, to compliment a dress, using nearly invisible Japanese threads.”

Even when working for a fashion house as gigantic and iconic as Dior, Spina have made sure to stay true to the core of what they do; every piece they make is commissioned and made by hand in their NW London offices. “We’re very much artisans, we often don’t think of the commercial context of what we’re doing,” says Joe; while Robbie explains that his love of working with tassels comes from always wanting to design and create with his hands, rather than a pen and paper. “I’m always reluctant to get into anything if I can’t make it with my own hands. And it’s very much what we use here, because our hands are our machines! I’m still a bit in love with my tassels, I still enjoy making them.”

With a ten strong team, Robbie doesn’t get to make as many tassels as he used to, but the company has worked hard to keep its niche, expert roots. So popular are Spina, they can now pick and choose graduates from design colleges for internships, and recruit people from Central St Martin’s and Chelsea College. “Most of our people have backgrounds in textiles, or product design, or even

13

feature interview

We like to think that we revisit old fashioned things and make them a little bit more funky

All images courtesy of Andreu Doz, www.andreudoz.com

jewellery designers…they cross disciplines,” says Joe. “And we’re always looking for ‘makers’, rather than designers.

That’s why I always ask at interviews, did you used to make your own clothes as a child, did you make your own toys and destroy them and put them together again?”

And Joe and Robbie still work closely together as much as possible too. Joe says: “The good thing is that we tend to agree automatically. If we walk into a room and there’s a hundred things there, we always choose the same things.”

Working together and living together in North West London has clearly proved successful. “We’ve always been in NW London,” says Robbie. “We just love the area and a lot of our friends are here. We wanted to be somewhere residential – calm and soothing and leafy – which we could use as a base for our home and for our showroom. It means our clients see it as part of our home which is important. ” It seems like they’ve already achieved so much, but for Joe and Robbie there’s still lots to do. “Obviously there’s our big exhibition coming up, which is very exciting and we’ve got some great collaborations and charity events we’re proud to be a part of,” says Robbie. “We’re working with Camilla Batmanghelidjh from Kid’s Company for a gala celebration of our ten years. The event will be called Tassel Dazzle and we’ve asked celebrities to design and customise a plain, white tassel, which we’ll then auction off to raise money.”

“We’ve gone bonkers,” laughs Joe. “We’ve got everyone from Dita Von Teese, Colin Firth and Eliza Doolittle, to Jonathan Adler, Zandra Rhodes, Sam Taylor-Wood, Andrew Logan, David Collins, Nina Campbell and Nicky Clarke. It’s going to be amazing.”

“And we’re doing lots of work abroad,” adds Robbie, proudly. “We’ve found an old building in this quaint medieval town and we’re doing Spina - but medieval! The actual place we’ve chosen is high up in the mountains in Italy, about 900metres above sea level. We’d love to have a little Spina museum there, sort of ‘tassels in the sky!’”

Big dreams.And, somehow, I am sure they’ll fulfil them. n www.spinadesign.co.uk

14

Spotlight on…

Interiors Boutiques

A

s one famous quote proclaims, ‘our objects, whatnots and knickknacks say the most about who we are.’ And nowhere is it easier to create the perfect impression with design and décor than in North West London.

FOCAL WALLS AND FABRICS Whether it’s living rooms cloaked in exotic prints, sofas wrapped in the finest jewel-hued silks or creations born when fashion icons swap couture robes for quirky rugs, Designer’s Guild of Marylebone High Street is firmly on our radar. The innovative soft furnishing company stock over 9,000 fabrics and 2,000 wallpapers, channelling inspirations as diverse as Eastern decorative art and Italian architecture. Founder Tricia Guild has written 15 highly regarded books and been awarded an OBE for her commitment to quality design.

In direct opposition to the modern approach of Designer’s Guild, Farrow & Ball, located nearby, strives to preserve

traditional wallpaper printing and paint blending techniques which the company has used since its opening. It’s also been commissioned through the decades to provide wallpaper to the Admiralty and War Office, and its archives – along with a continuing commitment to historic colours – provide a fascinating insight into the interiors trends of years gone by.

In Hampstead the Antique Textiles Company is the only place to consider for quilts and bedspreads, with their range spanning both American and English expertise.

FURNITURE North West London caters for particularly well for French country chic, and Brissi in Marylebone is a great place to get pieces specially commissioned to embody luxury and serenity.

We love their selection of drawer units, dressing tables and chairs with pared-down paintwork and soft detailing.

Graham and Green of Primrose Hill also has some suitably rustic items, inspired by the founder’s love of

spotlight

travel. However, in amongst the ornately carved bedsteads, distressed armoires and chaise longues are also other items reflecting influences from further afield. “My family house was full of Persian rugs, beautiful furniture and paintings and textiles brought back from Morocco and the Far East,” Antonia Graham has previously said, when explaining her passion for eclectic homewares.

Yet as charming as our NW environs are, boutiques catering for the more adventurous and abstract of tastes also exist. Gerald Moran in Hampstead is renowned for championing emerging British designers. The team are able to advise on various aspects of architecture and home dressing, against a backdrop of striking marble sculpture, dramatic gilt-edged mirrors and rare textiles.

Those desiring the stark simplicity of shapes usually associated with Scandinavia are likely to have already visited Skandium. The showroom is less a shop and more of an installation honouring decades of art and culture. Plastic armchairs akin to those of the famed New York Museum of Modern Art Eames seats, a reworked edition of the Hunting Chair of 1950 by Frederica and leather and stainless steel daybeds, which are also on display internationally, are perfect statement pieces.

Scandiavian chic continues in South End Green, where Skandinteriors offers everything you need to create a sublimely cool and minimalist space with dramatic pieces and clean, cool lines.

A similarly eclectic range of pieces is available at Decoratum, NW8, which has attracted international coverage from such authorities as Harper’s Bazaar Russia and the New York Times, owing to its quirky range of art and collectibles. With prices ranging from £500 to £250,000, the gallery offers something for all and is a great place to while away the afternoon.

In St John’s Wood you can find media rooms and beautiful kitchen and bathroom suites at the innovative Mark Wilkinson on the High Street, while St John’s Wood Interior Design is the place to head for a serious dose of inspiration and design expertise.

LIGHTING It’s Joseph Interiors in Hampstead which turns even the most discerning of decorators into a magpie, flitting amongst the glittering chandeliers, metal anglepoise lamps and soft mood systems in the quest for great lighting. The store has also themed its display, preparing it well for the forthcoming Christmas season.

Francesa Matire’s shop on Church Street St John’s Wood is a veritable emporium of modern style and vintage class. We love all the lighting on offer, especially some of the most aweinspiring chandeliers from the 60’s and 70’s we’ve ever seen.

FINISHING TOUCHES Still need that final little something? Seeking some moodenhancing candles? Pop into Diptyque for some of the most divine fragranced additions ever made. After fine linens edged with scalloped French lace? Cologne and Cotton chose the area for one of their flagship branches. Looking for stylish and high quality kitchen utensils? Divertimenti stocks quite literally everything but the kitchen sink! n

feature

Far Left: Marylebone High Street Left, from top: Cologne and Cotton Decoratum Skandium Antique Textiles Company Gerald Moran

Address Book Antique Textiles Company 1 Perrins Court, NW3

Brissi

22 Marylebone High Street, W1U

Cologne and Cotton

88 Marylebone High Street, W1U

C.P Hart

103-105 Regents Park Road, NW1

Decoratum

31-33 Church Street, NW8

Designer’s Guild

76 Marylebone High Street, W1U

Divertimenti

33-34 Marylebone High Street, W1U

Diptyque

68 Marylebone High Street, W1U

Farrow and Ball

64 Paddington Street, W1U

Francesca Matire

13-25 Church Street, NW8

Gerald Moran

85 Heath Street, NW3

Graham and Green

164 Regents Park Road, NW1

Joseph Interiors 13 Flask Walk, NW3

Mark Wilkinson

41 St John’s Wood High Street, NW8

Skandinteriors

57 South End Road, NW3

Skandium

86 Marylebone High Street, W1U

St John’s Wood Interior Design 27 St. Johns Wood High Street, NW8

17

Mayfair

the heart of

c o c kta i l b a r | lo u n g e | r e s ta u r a n t | c h e f ’ s d i n i n g r o o m | a r t g a l l e r y | l a c a v e 1 0 l a n c a s h i r e c o u r t n e w b o n d s t r e e t lo n d o n w 1 s 1 e y + 4 4 ( 0 ) 2 0 7 5 1 8 9 3 8 8 w w w. m e w s o f m ay fa i r . c o m

trend interiors design

study style best designers ............................... inspired interiors

. ......................................................................... . ...........................................

FANCY FANTASY

E Juliette’s Interiors provides stunning pieces which can instantly inject glamour into the home

very so often an interior requires something grand and theatrical.

After all, the process of transforming one’s home should be as enjoyable and adventurous and it is carefully planned and executed. In a time of minimalistic, contemporary design, we were delighted to discover the statement pieces available at Juliette’s Interiors. The online luxury furniture boutique provides classical creations of the very highest standard, which are unapologetically lavish and capture the essence of 15th century French style.

This Louis XV chaise longue, is carved from

solid wood and can be finished in a selection of sizes, colours and fabrics which enables clients to match their precise room scheme. The design looks especially opulent when wrapped in a unique gold ‘Pitti Oro’ finish and styled in fine button pearl velvet upholstery, and would work as well in a striking drawing room setting as it would in a master bedroom suite.

Now is a particularly good time to consider such an item, owing to the return of Chateau Chic on the interiors trend radar. n www.juliettesinteriors.co.uk

19

fashion

concierge

FASHION FORWARD Our very own Marylebone High Street is home to the UK flagship boutique of luxe yet laidback designer brand Theory, which is known for its staples, sophisticated cuts and all-round sense of chic!

So we were delighted to see the incredible reaction to the S/ S11 collection

by Theyskens’ Theory, when it was shown in New York in September.

The line is mastered

by Oliver Theyskens, the talented creative director behind the two lines, and the fashion crowd unanimously agreed that his modern and unpretentious mix of denim, tailoring and metallic fabrics was a real success story.

fashion

news DESIGNER SNOW White Christmases are always exciting, but especially when they appear in the slinky, gift-wrapped form of some of our favourite designer staples. In honour of the snowy season, Selfridges have commissioned an exclusive range of pieces in an icy hue including an iconic Burberry coat, the Mulberry Alexa, glitter encrusted stilettos from Dune and a beautiful Vivienne Westwood brooch, all of which would make gorgeous gifts. The items are available exclusively in store now.

1 Marylebone High Street, W1 www.theory.com

Quote of the month:

I don’t design clothes, I design dreams.

www.selfridges.com

Ralph Lauren

As the annual winter coat shop begins, we stumbled across this Carven cape wool blend coat. The oversized storm flaps and turn-up cuffs give it a fashionable edge, but there’s no denying that the camel tone and flattering tie-waist make it a style classic. www.cochinechine.com

www.themerchant24.com

MUST-HAVE ITEM:

Website:

TREND:

Keep this address safe!

The website allows visitors to browse the rails of London’s designer consignment store The Merchant, where high fashion pieces are available for around a third of their original price. Expect to find vintage dresses, Stella McCartney sequin blazers, Hermes Birkins and Jimmy Choos in immaculate condition.

Fetish One of the least daunting ways to work this season’s trend for all things avant garde is with some bold footwear.

Ipilya’s Autumn/ Winter collection incorporates sparkling black PVC, flourishes of ruby red faux fur and sky-high heels. www.ipilya.com

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One

Fine Day

Photographer:

Jon Cottam Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

Black and navy evening suit, £695, wing-collar dress shirt with studs, £125, blue and black bow-tie, £45, all Gieves & Hawkes, No1 Savile Row, W1, 020 7432 6403 Enamel cufflinks, £85, Links of London 0845 1202922, www.linksoflondon.com

Blue velvet jacket, £2,060, white dress shirt, £294, black bowtie, £143, black satin trousers, £600, all Tom Ford at Harrods, Knightsbridge, 020 7730 1234, www.tomford.com

Black satin evening suit, £1,195, black navy knitted bow-tie, £85, white dress shirt, £195, dress shirt studs, £300, navy cashmere coat, £1,995, silk square, £55, all Dunhill, 0845 4580779, www.dunhill.com

Black velvet and satin lapel evening suit, £2,000, cream round collar pleated front shirt, £300, black velvet loafers, £385, all Ermenegildo Zegna, 37-38 New Bond Street, W1, 020 7518 2700, www.zegna.com Glasses, £192, Tom Ford, www.tomford.com

Black velvet jacket, £1045, black shirt, £185, black bow-tie, £88, all Dolce & Gabanna at Matches, www.matchesfashion.com

Shot on location onboard British Pullman by Orient Express 0845 077 22 22, www.orient-express.com Thanks to Emma and Anna

Grooming: Paula Mann at Models1Creative using Paul Mitchell Luxury Haircare Products and Clinique

Photography Assistant: Adam Goodison

Post Production: Peach Perfect

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concierge

Hot Hollywood Off-duty screen siren is one of Autumn’s chicest looks, shown to perfection at Yves Saint Laurent A/W11 where ensembles of pristine white, jewelled embellishment and luxe fabrics became our dream daywear

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1 Candelera Bib-Front Shirt, £135, By Malene Birger, www.bymalenebirger.com 2 Georginne Trousers, £406, Diane Von Furstenberg, Matches, www.matchesfashion.com 3 Black Tutu Necklace, £725, Cochinechine, www.cochinechine.co.uk 4 Cosi by Chie Mihara shoes, £210, SPICE London, www.spiceshu.co.uk

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Dressed to

Dave Waddell speaks to Mark Lord about modern-day tailoring, period costume-making and why every selfrespecting gentleman should embrace the waistcoat

the Nines

interview

“I

’ll be wearing a suit with a purple and green paisley doublebreasted velvet waistcoat.”

Mark Lord of ML Bespoke Tailoring, film costumier, designer, consultant and champion of the three-piece suit, is meeting me at Limehouse train station. We’ve never met, hence the description. I know his clothes, I know his reputation and I know that the depth of his knowledge of period clothing sets him apart in the super-sophisticated world of menswear styling, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. Dressed in a green worsted single-breasted suit, the aforementioned waistcoat (exactly as described), a purple and white needle pinstripe shirt, rusted silk tie and a pair of patent green leather shoes, Lord is, as Thomas Carlyle once said, “a clothes-wearing man.”

For Lord, and for his clients, being such a man means knowing what matters in one’s choice of suit. It means having a sense of the quality of a fabric, of a suit’s cut, of what to wear with it and on what occasion.

After an afternoon at his home on Narrow Street, pouring over Mark Lord suits, jackets, shirts and ties, and then at Canary Wharf’s stunningly lit Battery Club, I can see why he has chosen this particular suit. Cut from fabrics supplied by Holland & Sherry of Savile Row, hand-stitched and sporting a double vent, peaked lapels, slanted pockets, an outside ticket pocket and surgeon’s cuffs, it’s a real work of art; the muted greens and the wonderful subtlety of its design complement perfectly a day spent surrounded by beautiful things.

However, I am especially fascinated by the waistcoat. It is bright, elaborate and its wide lapels seem to come from another time. “It’s a 1820s – or 1830s – period piece.” Lord’s love for contemporised period clothing stems from nearly 20 years spent in the film business. A graduate from Central Saint Martins, and with a background both in PR and fashion, he went to work first for Angels Costume House, then as a freelance costume and wardrobe designer. Starting out at Angels as a tailor “making period clothing”, the excellence of his eye, as well as his ability to make, saw him quickly promoted to fully fledged costumier. The experience of fitting

actors – of preparing “wardrobes for every scene”, of working on several productions a week – a baptism of fire and an invaluable grounding in the art of selection, textural authenticity and bespoke tailoring.

His name made at Angels, Lord’s jump to freelance was a relatively smooth affair, and especially so given the fact that his first costumier project, on Marleen Gorris’s The Luzhin Defence, with John Turturro and Emily Watson, was a period piece.

Spent on location in Hungary, Lord’s responsibility for costume meant his having to scour Budapest’s flea markets for 1920s clothes. It was hard, demanding and just the start he needed.

From there, he would go on to work on, among others, the Emmy awardwinning Victoria and Albert, on Spooks with the likes of Matthew Macfadyen and Keely Hawes, on Guy Richie’s RocknRolla, with Rupert Everett and Emilia Fox on Silent Witness, and most recently on Mikael Håfström’s Shanghai, where his job was “to specifically look after John Cusack.”

Lord’s waistcoat is suffused with the knowledge, craftsmanship and creativity required of a first-rate tailor but designed, as he says, to “liven up the suit”, its period feel a shockingly refreshing contrast to the suit, it is also the work of a consummate costumier, as knowing as it is finely made.

Clothes, to Lord, are more than objects. They are a kind of magical tool and they ”unlock something in people they didn’t realise they had”, which is why, I suspect, he so enjoys the act of fitting. His understanding of the relationship between people – their needs, work and leisure pursuits – and the clothes they wear is exactly that which has enabled him to move so successfully from the world of makebelieve to that of making believe, from film set to setting up a business which offers an individually tailored, men’s luxury lifestyle service. Dressing actors authentically is not a million miles away from dressing men in such a way as to make them “feel themselves.”

Which is exactly the substance of Lord’s love for the waistcoat. He calls it his “unique selling point”, and it does bring out the aesthete in him, but Lord’s no dandy; not at least in a Bauderlairean sense. He’s much too passionate, cares way too much

concierge comment

for people and he knows it isn’t for everyone. Neither an affectation, nor a cultivation of the self for the self’s sake, he is dressed in an 1820s styled purple and green paisley doublebreasted velvet waistcoat because he likes it. It brings him joy. He is simply being himself. n Contact Mark Lord by phone, on 020 7205 2171 / 07866 581230 or by email: mark@marklordlondon.co.uk.

For more information visit www.marklordlondon.co.uk Angels Costume House supply costumes for TV, film and theatre. For more information visit www.angels.uk.com Battery Club is a member of the Alphabet Group and it is open on weekdays For more information visit www.thebatteryclub.co.uk

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interiors

news

PALE AND INTERESTING The new Astral collection by Barbara Barry for Tufenkian is an interesting and fresh take on neutral décor. Having worked with the artisan carpet brand for over 15 years, Barbara has a great understanding of what works well in the home. The latest collection includes rugs woven with fine silk and wool to enhance texture and ensure they attract the eye. The champagne hued Effervescence rug is a real favourite. www.tufenkian.com

WINTER ESSENTIALS This month we discovered By Nord, a quirky interiors label which aims to capture the beauty of Scandinavian nature. Nowhere is this inspiration more evident than in the striking cushion collection where splashes of volcanic colour and winter landscapes make for some truly atmospheric accessories. We can see these in a city bachelor pad, just as much as in a cosy winter retreat.

TOAST TO LAGERFELD They might not be Chanel 2.55 bags, but these glasses from Karl Lagerfeld for Orrefors are as stylish, unique and iconic as you’d expect from the director of the French fashion house. Wine, water, liqueur and champagne glasses make up

www.selfridges.com

the range, along with monogrammed coasters and vases. Notice the use of monochrome and sleek shapes which we’ve come to expect from Lagerfeld. Karl’s drink of choice? Diet Coke. www.harrods.com

MODERN TOUCHES Bo Concept isn’t just a first port of call for modern furniture design, it also stocks a great range of edgy accessories, as shown by the latest collection. Industrial style lamps, coloured vases, wire-crafted baskets and reworked patchwork cushions are amongst the drop, which are ideal for injecting new life into your home this season. www.boconcept.co.uk

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www.boconcept.co.uk

Extendable dining table £1795. Dining chair from £349

Order in time for Christmas

MAKE ROOM FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL The festive season will soon be here so it’s time to start thinking about those all important dinner parties.

Find a wide range of dining furniture that will fit your needs, taste and budget.

Explore all the options at BoConcept Tottenham Court Road or online at boconcept.co.uk.

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Designer: Paul Davies xxxxx Knightsbridge apartment dining room www. pauldavieslondon.com

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Exemplary

Design

How do you pick a designer who can perfectly emulate your style and, at the same time, create a unique and luxurious space? Lana Jordan showcases the best interior design from some of the best designers

I

n one of her many books on decorating, America’s much loved interior designer Eleanor McMillen Brown wisely said: “To develop in taste, quality, and personality one is obliged to respect the past, accept the present, and look with enthusiasm toward the future.” Here we bring a selection of some of the most exciting designers working today, who combine an impressive

vision and ingenuity with a sense of history and tradition. See modern technological marvels, coupled with chic, modern decor. Delight in the quirky and whimsical, or get inspiration from bright spaces and bold colours. Finally, see where one signature piece can bring to life a room and take ideas from spaces with stylish exteriors and inspired lighting.

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“Extravagant and theatrical spaces...my work has a quirkiness to it, there’s a definite humour and a sense of playfulness.”

DESIGNER: David Carter 40 Winks hotel interior by David Carter www.alacarter.com

“It was important for me to create a sumptuous environment with clean lines and opulent colours.�

DESIGNER: Kelly Hoppen Barkli Virgin House with designs by Kelly Hoppen for yoo www.kellyhoppenretail.com

“The accents of slate grey and dark wood complement the purity of the white in this bedroom, while details such as the crystal lamp bases create interest.�

DESIGNER: Louise Bradley Residential schemes by interior designer Louise Bradley www.louisebradley.co.uk

“It was the client’s dream to create a modern home which challenged conventional ways of thinking.”

DESIGNER: SMC UK Sound, lighting and security systems for Highgate Cemetery Home, Swains Lane, Highgate by SMC UK www.smc-uk.com

“A rare view into the private world of cultured luxury. Decorated in greys and lavender hues, the apartment is furnished with fine art from the private collection of The Connaught.�

DESIGNER: David Collins David Collins Apartment for The Connaught, Mayfair, London www.davidcollins.com

“This lobby is perfectly finished by the Lindberg artwork which provides a contemporary edge to the timeless materials and finishes.”

DESIGNER: Bianca Ladow for Earlcrown Residential interiors project for an apartment in London www.earlcrown.com

“Using mirrors along the wall emphasises the size and openness of the space.”

DESIGNER: Bianca Ladow for Earlcrown Residential interiors project for a walled garden in Mayfair www.earlcrown.com

interiors

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1 lighting Delight, amuse and illuminate your interiors with dynamic lighting pieces 1 FREE FALLIN, large brass ginkgo biloba leaf in polished brass with lacquer finish, £1,000, Craig Jenkins Designs, www.craigjenkinsdesigns.com

2 Bulles Lampadari, lighting with painted glass support and glass sphere bulbs, available in white, black or clear, £2,240 for 12 spheres, Anna Casa, www.annacasa.net

3 Orbis Table Lamp, bronze with polished nickel details and black silk shade, from £965, Decorus, www.decorusfurniture.co.uk

4 Crown Jewels in Blanc, Double-sided hanging chandeliers, available in Blanc, Noir, and Violet, £355, Glow Canvas, www.glowcanvas.co.uk

5 Marrakech Tyre Lamp, £185, Graham & Green www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

6 Venus Lamp & Drum Shade, £149 & £38, OKA, www.okadirect.com

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the trend Settle down with a good book in an attractive and cosy study space styled with leather armchairs, dark woods and a gentleman’s finest collectables

Stamford Wing Chair, £785, Chesterfields www.chesterfields1780.com

Bookshelf Wallpaper Inventor Library Multi £119.90, Shack, www.shackinteriors.co.uk

Botanist Cushion, £75, Amara www.amara.co.uk

Acanthus Amber Cushion, £99 Amara, www.amara.co.uk

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Leather Expedition Globe, £192.50 Just Globes, www.justglobes.co.uk

Whisky Box with Crystal Glasses and Decanter £2,500, www.gift-library.com Grand Tripod Candlestick, £POA Christopher Guy, www.christopherguy.com

Collected Memories Mirror, £628 Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.eu

Wycliffe Ottoman, £POA, Mulberry Home www.mulberryhome.com

Indochine Desk, £1,935, The Conran Shop www.conranshop.co.uk

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www.justerinis.com 0207 493 6174

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1 2 fabrics Sumptuous fabrics bring colour and luxury to your home just in time for the winter months 1 SHE COMES IN MANY COLOURS, carpet woven in silk, £9,485, Veedon Fleece, www.veedonfleece.com

2 Tussar Quilt & Cushions, quilt from £300, cushions from £36,

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And So To Bed, www.andsotobed.com

3 Tinto & garrick cushions, from £79; fair isle throw, from £99per m; Cocoa Throw, £109 per m, Zoffany, www.zoffany.com

4 MILITARY BROCADE, by Alexander McQueen for The Rug Company, £8,900, The Rug Company at Harrods, www.harrods.com

5 The Flower Collection bed linen, from £259, ESCADA Home exclusively at Harrods, www.harrods.com

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Vintage Treasures

Gillian Anderson Price runs the much-loved vintage shop, Judith Michael & Daughter in Primrose Hill. Emma Mills met her to talk about buying and selling antiques, keeping in style and working for herself

Y

ou started out in fashion, but ended up in antiques. Why the change?

I think I confused my love of clothes, for a desire to work in the fashion industry. I enjoyed fashion and I stayed in the industry for a while, worked really briefly with John Galliano, who is a bit of a black name at the moment, but I have to say, when I worked for him, was amazing. But I just wasn’t cut out for working in it in the end. I found working for someone else hard. My parents were self-employed, so I didn’t understand the whole corporate world and I’m better making decisions for myself. My parents had always been in antiques, my mum ran an antiques shop, and in 2000 I ended up taking over her shop, which I reopened on Haverstock Hill when I moved to London, and finally relocated to Regent’s Park Road in 2005. We opened on the 10th December, I remember that day well.

How has running a business compared to working for someone else?

It’s taken a long time. And it’s really hard work. Sometimes parts of me long to work for a big company just for that

interview

regular wage! Interiors is like fashion, things go in and out of fashion constantly, and things I wouldn’t look at five years ago I’m desperate to buy now and things I was buying five years ago, now don’t interest me or my customers.

So it involves a lot of foresight?

There’s a prediction involved, yes, but also, I like what I sell very much. I buy what I really love and my customers buy it because we love the same thing! And it’s really important to know who your customer is and what they want.

And what’s an average day like for you?

If I’m buying, I’m up at 4am, driving to a show or antique market somewhere, usually in England. If I’m in the shop then we come in at 10am, open up, do the remerchandising and deal with customers, in between popping over the road for a coffee – which is already made for me before I’ve even got through the door! Primrose Hill is like a proper village within central London and it has all the ups and downs that any provincial village would have, all the characters and everything else. I love it here.

Is buying a skill you’ve had to work at?

My mother used to take me buying when I was a child, so I kind of knew a bit about that. But my buying is definitely better now and I’m more specific. I think in recent years especially, I’ve had to be brave and true to myself and not buy safe. I think that’s our unique selling point really because we buy the things that other people don’t.

So, how would you describe your own personal style?

Oh, I’m incredibly fickle and I change my mind constantly. I love it one day and am over it the next.

But you aim to be on-trend though?

Yes. Actually at the moment, aside from the little strands – outdoors-inside, and surrealism, for instance – the biggest trend at the moment is the freedom that everybody has to do what they like. I think it’s the first time we’ve had that since the 80s. I think being experimental, painting a room black, is fine, whatever you want to paint it! And I think that this is exciting because usually people are more intimidated by interiors than fashion.

feature

Why is that?

I think they’re more permanent. If you walk into the office in an outfit and the girls in the office say ‘OMG what are you wearing?’ you don’t have to wear it again. Whereas if you paint your wall a bold colour and you decide you don’t like it, you’re stuck with it. Your decisions with interiors are much longer lasting.

So for anyone wanting to start bringing antiques and a vintage look to their home, where should they start?

First of all I think there’s a difference between collecting and decorating. If you’re going to collect, start out collecting one thing that you really like and educate yourself about it, then you’ll know what to look for; find out what’s more rare, interesting colours, or styles. If you want to start introducing antiques into your own interiors, the first thing is to discover what pieces of furniture you dislike most in your house and start looking for something that’s antique that will replace it in a functional kind of a way.

Obviously there have been times that were challenging, has the recession had quite a big impact?

Absolutely, I don’t think there are many businesses that haven’t been acutely aware of the recession; and I have had to make changes. I’ve been less frivolous with my buying, less self-indulgent and much stricter. We’re fortunate in that everything we have is a one-off pretty much, so if you want it you have to buy it because it won’t be here next time. We do have a great and really broad customer base which helps too; and my customers trust me.

Is trust very important to you?

Yes. We don’t buy junk, we buy beautiful, perfect condition things. Everything here is completely 100 per cent useable every day. If you come in and buy champagne glasses, I expect you to go home and open a bottle of champagne and use them.

Our raison d’etre is that you come in here to buy something you can’t buy on the high street. Everything is lovingly selected for you, to give as a gift, to keep for yourself and it’s something that you’re not going to see at your friend’s house. The most important thing to us is that everything is special. n www.judithmichael.com

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furniture Embrace signature looks that pull your decor together, emulating style and colour in one striking piece 1 Hondrum Coffee Table, florentine gold with glass top, £1,600, Decorus, www.decorusfurniture.co.uk

2 Peking TV Cabinet, £975, OKA, www.okadirect.com 3 Lama 921 arm chair, £3,336, Chaplins, www.chaplins.co.uk

4 Bubble chaiR, £2,745, Kelly Hoppen for Loft Living at Selfridges, www.loftliving.co.uk

5 Cathy Azaria side table,

£1,200, B&D Design,

www.bd-designs.co.uk

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6 Maud bedstead, from Charleston Collection designed by Nina Campbell, £4,325, And So To Bed, www.andsotobed.co.uk

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Smarter

My home is than yours Discover how easy it is to commission a cable-free, cutting-edge house, featuring all the latest gadgetry and technological innovations. Jamie Carter picks out some inspirational examples of bespoke smart homes

C

an your iPhone dim the lights, adjust the heating and play a movie? With huge flatscreen televisions becoming ever thinner and home cinema rooms now de rigueur, interior designers are increasingly integrating multi-room entertainment systems that can master a home’s every function.

How about a television that rises from the end of your bed? Or a wall of smoked glass panels that part like curtains to reveal a TV? A favourite of film buffs is the

installation of a projector that drops down from a panel in the ceiling to project the latest 3D movie onto a screen that rises from the floor; while it’s hard to beat a velvetcovered, but perforated, wall that completely hides a bank of powerful surround sound speakers.

So-called custom installations were born around the idea of private, exclusive cinemas operated by a touchscreen remote that controls a projector, amplifier and even motorised blackout curtains. And while a home cinema or

interiors

‘media room’ (the latter describing family-friendly games or multi-function room) is almost always some part of the plan in modern smart homes, there’s an increasing concentration on whole house control.

Yes, the modern bespoke home is wired for sound but a whole lot more can be done. It’s common to find touchscreens subtly mounted on the walls of a kitchen, lounge or wine cellar that can control a home’s ambient temperature, lighting and security functions. Systems exist with sensors which can be programmed to recognise your car as it parks outside and light a path through the house, following your usual habits. Others adjust a home’s heating and lighting, gradually drawing or opening curtains (motorised, naturally) to maximise natural light while saving as much energy as possible.

It’s clever stuff, but is a smart home for everyone? In the luxury new build market, the wiring for a smart home is now an essential part of the sale; don’t buy a new home that doesn’t at least have extensive data cabling throughout, even if it doesn’t actually have ‘smart’ functions. You’d think it would all be wireless but while WiFi is clean and convenient, it’s not nearly as reliable – and if your home’s security and AV (audiovisual) system are tied into a custom installation, the

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wired option is by far the best. That’s not always possible, and for anyone living in historic or period buildings, creating a retrofit smart home can be a touch harder and more expensive.

You could, of course, do it yourself. A credit card and a drive to a retail park will secure you as big a television as you want, a 3D Blu-ray player and a sound system to be proud of, but who’s going to install it? Though anyone with a modicum of knowledge about AV can set it all up, achieving a clutter-free and cable-free installation that gels with your interior design is difficult. Anyone after an automated home – with smartphone control, perhaps – has only one option. A good custom installer can access exclusive behind-the-scenes products and solutions that allow an iPhone to switch off the lights upstairs, monitor a security camera or flick to cover over a swimming pool, and these experts can design, build and install a smart home just the way you want it.

While it’s hard to beat recommendations from friends, custom installers are often small teams so can be tied-up for months at a time. Head to www.cedia.co.uk – CEDIA is the industry body for the custom install industry – for advice on installers in your area and check out our pick of some of the smartest homes around.

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concierge interiors comment

The Luxury Home Cinema Going a bit too far? This cinema installation in a new build in southern Africa was designed for a wealthy family that wanted an easy-to-use cinema. The owners might not have been techie but the end product certainly is, containing a four metre-wide CinemaScope (the extra wide shape found in commercial cinemas) screen, a Cambridge Audio Blu-ray player and an Artcoustic Spitfire sound system. Also note the ostentatious 5,000 piece star ceiling: “It fits into our décor and interior scheme which flows throughout the house,” said the owner.

“The system blows us away and the family couldn’t wait for the house to be finished in order to get into the cinema.”

Cost: £100,000+ Installer: Sphere Custom

The Loft Cinema

The Super-smart Home

A state-of-the-art, compact home cinema in a semi-detached home’s triangular loft might seem a good idea but what about the neighbours? The solution: a stud-wall shell filled with recycled car tyres and glue, along with a floating floor, which contains the sound from Klipsch speakers and four incredible subwoofers.

“I can sit in the cinema with the sound turned right up and you can only just hear a faint rumble in the bedroom directly below,” says the owner. “And the neighbours are still speaking to me!”

At 109 decibels, that’s a lofty achievement.

Architecturally as modern as it gets, this holiday home in France is often empty, so security is a major part of the final design. A whole house control system covers lighting, multi-zone audio, video, security and control of all electronic devices across all four floors.

Touchscreens, hidden in doorways and windows, occupy each room while underground is a gym, pool, Turkish bath, home cinema, library, games room and part-wine cellar, part-bar. That’s all protected by biometric access, while the owner can monitor security on the internet. With that haul, who could blame him?

Cost: £40,000 - £100,000 Installer: FAB Audio Visual

Cost: £100,000+ Installer: Henri Intégrateur Domotique, Villa des Amis

The Media Room A typical first step in transforming a house into a smart home is a simple media room. This living space retains its sharp interior design aesthetic and isn’t dominated by technology, yet it’s packed with the latest gizmos; a recessed 42-inch plasma, two Sky+HD boxes, a Blu-ray player and an iPod music system are joined-up by a Crestron Prodigy universal remote, while special in-wall surround sound speakers by Amina have been installed and painted over so that they have become invisible. “We’re very happy with the final installation,” said the homeowner. “The system is straightforward, logical to use and fits perfectly into the surroundings.” n Cost: £15,000 Installer: Dawsons Group

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Must Have Trend

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Long Lashes

Lashes is an innovative new lash conditioner which works to increase volume, density and length by up to 50 per cent over the course of six weeks. The liquid is applied like an eye liner each evening and uses synthetic Prostaglandin and bio-peptide Amino Acids to rejuvenate and strengthen.

Make-up artist Ruby Hammer told us: ‘It’s one of my favourite products, it takes a few weeks to show but it really works.’

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£69.95 www.beautyproductsdirect.com

Must-Have Colour Deep Burgundy

Post-shopping Pampering Marylebone’s Daniel Galvin has launched a special Christmas package for weary shoppers.

Visitors to the area can seek refuge and revitalisation within the glamorous surroundings of the swanky hair salon between 21 November and 24 December. In addition to

receiving a signature blow dry (guaranteed to be fabulous!), customers will be treated to an extended head massage and a pedicure for a great value fee of £70, book in ahead of party season, now.

58/60 George Street, W1U 7ET

beauty scoop: LEIGH KEATS TALKS PARTY PERFECT HAIR We all know that a great hairstyle can take you from desk to dance floor and weary to all round wonderful in an instant, although squeezing salon appointments into a hectic schedule isn’t always possible. With this in mind we were delighted to swap tips with Leigh Keates, senior stylist at Marylebone’s glamorous salon Michael Van Clarke.

1. Hot off the catwalk, a ponytail quickly transforms relaxed day hair into a fierce after dark look.

Jazz it up with hair accessories.

2. Prepare hair for serious styling using a pre-wash treatment, soothing shampoo and conditioner.

3. After blow-drying tease the ends of the hair and back comb the roots for added texture.

1 Beaumont Street, W1G 6DF

leigh’s Top Products:

Reflect Autumn’s hottest fashion shade in your manicure this month using the rich tone of Galion from Illamasqua.

Dark and dramatic yet decidedly more feminine and workable than black nails, this burgundy shade is sophisticated with a great shine. www.illamasqua.com

Must-Have Item CHRISTMAS TREATS

Quite simply, we have found the best advent calendar ever, courtesy of L’Oreal. As if we didn’t realise that the beauty powerhouse subsumes Giorgio Armani fragrances, Kiehl’s haircare, Lancome cosmetics and YSL goodies to boot, miniature versions of the products are available as part of a special multipack, just in time for Christmas. www.selfridges.com

1. Michael Van Clarke ‘3 more inches’ Safety Comb, £10.50 2. Michael Van Clarke ‘3 more inches’ Pre-Wash Treatment, £29 3. Juicy Couture Rhinestone Hair Band £30, Selfridges 1

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4. Bellage Puzzle Hair Clip, £34.95, Harrods

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Best of beauty The Luxe and Luscious

Volumized Lashes Mascara £22, Dolce & Gabbana www.dolceandgabbanamakeup.com

Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch £24, Clarins, www.clarins.co.uk

Prosperity Powder Compact £75, Estee Lauder www.harrods.com

Trend Alert SCARLET KISSES Models at the DVF Autumn/Winter show were among those rocking this season’s power pout, their pale complexions punctuated with matte scarlet lip colour and a subtle slick of mascara. It’s a quick and easy look to muster but one which exudes high glamour.

RECREATE THE LOOK

1. Achieve a flawless base by applying primer.

2. Dust over powder to even skin tone.

3. Choose a rich scarlet lip colour, blot and reapply for staying power.

4. Give your lashes a coat of black mascara for added va va voom.

L’Absolu Rouge £19, Lancome, www.lancome.com

beauty

concierge

Essentials

Address Book

Dressing Table

Cosmetics à la carte

Treat yourself this month to beauty products which are as attractive to leave on display as they are fun to experiment with

19b Motcomb Street, SW1X 8LB www.cosmeticsalacarte.com Whether you’re looking for foundation which precisely matches your skin tone or a gorgeous lip gloss to complement a specific dress, Cosmetics à la carte is the destination for you.

The boutique offers a bespoke range of formulations, made by custom blending colours to suit each client’s requirements.

Eye shadows and powders are also available and each item is surprisingly affordable. Makeovers and master classes are also on offer here.

Shelley Necklace Lip Balm £29.50, Andrea Garland

Three of a Kind Candles The interiors issue of Vantage magazine provides the ideal opportunity to advocate lighting a few candles and creating the perfect environment for pampering.

The Wild Bluebell Home Candle has a sweet and soft aroma and is one of Jo Malone’s latest and most popular releases. We were also delighted to hear that Neal’s Yard Remedies is launching a selection of scented Aromatherapy Candles which promise to energise, balance or calm. The range will be available in both the St John’s Wood and Marylebone stores.

Alternatively, distant shores are the inspiration for the new Citron Citron Candle from Miller Harris at Space NK, which fuses Moroccan cedar with the essence of Sicilian lemon, Spanish orange and Jamaican lime for a fresh and invigorating fragrance.

1

Candy Eau de Parfum £71, Selfridges

Steamcream, £10.50 Boots

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Julian McDonald Star Collection, from £8, Designers at Debenhams

3 1 Wild Bluebell Home Candle £38, Jo Malone www.jomalone.co.uk

2 Aromatherapy Candle, £28 Neal’s Yard Remedies www.nealsyardremedies.com

3 Citron Citron Candle, £34 Miller Harris www.spacenk.co.uk

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The Wellington Hospital, located in St John’s Wood, is one of the world’s leading private hospitals It has an international reputation for outstanding care in areas of medicine including: cardiac services, neurosurgery, liver and HPB medicine, acute neurological rehabilitation, gynaecology, orthopaedics and many more

Patients can enjoy luxury accommodation, together with a warm and friendly service, all of which create a caring environment and a comfortable hospital experience.

Our team of consultants and medical professionals are capable of dealing with a wide range of complex medical and surgical problems. And all our services are supported by our Medical and Surgical Admission Units.

Image courtesy of Siemens

Our diagnostic services include: 64 Slice CT Scanner Ultrasound X-ray MRI

Our award-winning Intensive Care Unit combines the highest quality of critical care nursing, with 24/7 access to Intensive Care specialists and support services.

The Wellington Diagnostics and Outpatients Centre based in Golders Green, offers premium healthcare for all the family.

Children’s Health Services Reproductive Health Private GPs Diagnostic and Imaging Services

The Platinum Medical Centre, located in St John’s Wood, is a dedicated outpatient and day surgery facility, comprising: 50 Consulting Rooms 4 Operating Theatres 12 Surgery Beds

With a fully integrated service, The Wellington Hospital can provide each patient with the care and support they need.

For an expert consultation call our team today The Wellington Hospital Wellington Place, St John’s Wood London. NW8 9LE

Telephone: 0207 483 5148 / Fax: 0207 483 5618 wellington.enquiryhelpline@hcahealthcare.co.uk www.thewellingtonhospital.com

concierge beauty

Local Luxury There’s nothing better than discovering a haven of pampering, right on your doorstep, says Gabrielle Lane

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acifica Day Spa is an award-winning beauty treatment destination which Hampstead is rightfully proud to claim as its own, owing to its great treatments and friendly atmosphere.

Approach While the Notting Hill branch of Pacifica boasts a lovely sauna, colour therapy room and suitably throne-like seating, the Hampstead location is a little more intimate and discreet. This is no bad thing; consistent between the two spas is the commitment to the highest quality of beauty therapy which has seen Pacifica acquire kudos amongst the beauty and lifestyle press and locals alike.

Surroundings Pacifica Hampstead is a peaceful boutique style destination in the heart of the village. The reception area is welcoming and bright and enables clients to browse the range of Dermalogica and Elemis products used in-house. The two treatment rooms are much cosier, with Asian-inspired decor, soothing music and soft lighting creating the perfect relaxing ambience.

In fact, this attractive yet simple setting serves to make the environment all the more welcoming and ensures it appeals to an almost equal number of men and women. It’s also the

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ideal destination for maintenance treatments, very close to home.

Treatments The spa is renowned for its great facials and massages, from light aromatherapy treatments to intensive deep-tissue techniques and those suitable for expectant mothers. The treatment menu also incorporates more ritualistic options including indulgent coconut milk wraps, hydro-mineral salt scrubs and body sculpting therapies which can be combined for an afternoon of pure pampering. One of the spa’s signature treatments is the exclusive Yoga Pedicure, a reflexology driven treatments where clients are gifted with balancing, massaging sandals to wear home which aid posture.

The finishing touches? Manicures, Elemis tan applications and waxing. n 89 Heath Street, NW3 6UG www.pacificadayspa.co.uk

Spa Spotlight ...

Full Body Massage Pacifica is renowned for its great massages so I was keen to join the waiting list and book in for the full body treatment.

Managing director Kathleen Granados is one of the most knowledgeable and approachable therapists I’ve met, as happy to talk through the benefits of different techniques as she is to share anecdotes on interesting new health and fitness concepts. Here, you don’t have to embellish tales of your skincare routine, or chant in a mystical fashion hoping to channel some spirit or other, visiting is a down-to-earth, friendly and fun experience.

My massage incorporated kneading, light strokes and pressure point stimulation to relieve tension in the muscles in a way which was completely tailored to the discomfort I’d been feeling. Having detected tightness in my back, Kathleen worked to relieve knots, recommended pilates to tone the core and paired a warm compress with gentle stretching and essential oils to help me loosen up. She also spent time massaging my palms and fingers to reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries as a result of computer work.

The highlight was a gorgeous head massage to relieve stress and I left feeling thoroughly refreshed.

VANTAGEpromotion

BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL As the pioneers of intelligent skin care, EF MEDISPA have a new selection of surgical saviours that will remain your little secret. Say hello to the new stealthy surgery…

EYES TO KILL Puffy, under-eye bags can add years to your face. Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty, rumoured to be the favoured skin solution of George Clooney, is performed under local anaesthetic on the inside of the lash line to remove fatty deposits without the need for outward incisions. So you can be back at your desk within the week with a natural look George would be proud of!

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MAKE OVER YOUR MAKE-UP For anyone wanting to define their eyes, sculpt their brows or enhance their lips in the ultimate, hassle-free way, semi-permanent make up is the answer to your prayers. EF MEDISPA experts use tiny implants of pigmentation to amplify your best features and achieve perfect facial symmetry – so you look miraculously freshfaced right around the clock.

SHED LIGHT ON YOUR SKIN There are some skin problems that need to be treated deep down. Thanks to the latest Fraxel Laser, everything from sun spots and fine facial lines to stretch marks on the body and creping on the décolleté can be ousted to the bottom of your worry list. Thousands of microscopic skin areas are penetrated by light to remove dead layers and stimulate natural cell regeneration.

THE COVERT CONTOUR The third generation of Vaser Lipo targets stubborn fat deposits and sculpts the washboard stomach, upper arms, buttocks or legs you’ve always wanted.

EF MEDISPA’s experts remove unwanted fat while leaving healthy skin tissue, nerves and cells intact to achieve your new streamlined silhouette.

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A BOOST FOR THE BUST The sophistication of a highly tailored method of breast enhancement means your lifelong dream can be achieved with the utmost sophistication in less than two hours.

Like fine artists, EF MEDISPA’s experts will advise you on the range of implants to help you sculpt your way to volume, symmetry and a big dose of confidence.

laser – a diode laser combined with a sweeping, ‘in motion’ technique and cooling system that painlessly destroys cells surrounding hair follicles to leave you enviably smooth-skinned.

For information on any of the above treatments, book now for your complimentary consultation at any of EF MEDISPA’s Central London clinics.

CLANDESTINE CLEANSING The change of the seasons is the time to capitalise on the body’s natural cleansing process. Colonic hydrotherapy infuses your bowel with water to dislodge waste matter, so you fall into autumn with fewer headaches, clearer skin and a lighter feeling overall.

HASSLE-FREE HAIR REMOVAL Ever wished you could remove hair without the usual agony? Cue the Superior

Vantage Special Permanent pain-free laser hair removal offer:

1. Book a course of full leg and receive a course of bikini FREE 2. Book a course of half leg and Receive a course of under arm FREE Offers valid until 30 November

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Captivate Your Senses The first internationally-acclaimed Chuan Spa in Europe is now open at The Langham, London.

Rediscover your source with luxurious treatments inspired by the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The Langham, London 1c Port land Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA T 44 (0) 20 7973 7550

tllon.info@chuanspa.com

www.chuanspa.co.uk

AUCKLAND • BOSTON • HONG KONG • LONDON • LOS ANGELES • MELBOURNE • SHANGHAI

ChuanSpa ExclusiveMag.indd 1

15/3/11 13:35:46

health & fitness

concierge

health & fitness

news STYLISH SLENDERTONE Lifting and toning the facial muscles is a valuable exercise in the fight against ageing and an action for which the Slendertone Face device is specially created.

Following the huge success of the initial product, which uses massage to increase firmness and radiance, renowned milliner Phillip Treacy has collaborated with the team to produce a limited edition version.

The design has a sleek ergonomic shape and is available in hot pink.

Available exclusively at Harrods

A BEAUTIFUL VENUE Those who associate Bikram yoga with hot, cramped rooms should think again. The dedicated Primrose Hill centre is a stunning venue which inspires relaxation. Founder Michele Pernetta wanted to create an original and

tranquil space in which clients could improve their health and well-being. The result is a stateof-the-art suite with a homely lounge, crystal chandeliers and mosaic-tiled shower areas.

200 Regents Park Road, NW1 8BE

MOVING ON UP Eating properly can benefit sleep patterns, concentration, energy levels and the immune system, so it is well worth visiting the Move Three Sixty Clinic in Finchley for nutritional advice, weight management and a variety of other related services. The team are also able to test for allergies, instruct on personal training and work to correct pain and discomfort through a series of personal sessions, classes and at-home programmes.

8 Canfield Road, NW6 3BT

SIMPLE PLEASURES Experience the stress-relieving properties of massage while on the go with a great value and effective Shiatsu Stress Relieving Massage Pillow. The cushion uses heat to penetrate the muscles and help promote calm. It can also be used on necks, backs, legs and feet and is perfect to keep in the office for a well-deserved break. www.homedics.co.uk

Brought to you in association with The Wellington Hospital, one of the world’s leading private hospitals. www.thewellingtonhospital.com

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Giving the Green Light Mr Amir Kaisary, Consultant Urologist at The Wellington Hospital, talks to us about enlarged prostates - the symptoms, the treatments and the latest options available to men, including Green Light Laser Therapy The prostate is an essential reproductive gland which supports and promotes male sperm function and fertility. Positioned just under the bladder, the urethra runs through the middle of the prostate. Issues arise when the prostate becomes enlarged, and the urethra becomes constricted, leading to a blockage.

Over the age of 40, all men have some enlargement of their prostate, but only one in ten will ever develop an obstruction which needs treatment. Size is irrelevant, as the smallest prostates may cause severe obstruction and the bigger glands none at all.

Symptoms Common symptoms men may have include: frequent urination, weak urine flow, trouble starting and stopping the urinary stream and an inability to completely empty the bladder. Each patient is assessed as an individual and requires a careful history to be taken, and some of these questions will cover both blockage and irritative symptoms.

Examination A clinical assessment by a doctor includes an abdominal palpation and a rectal examination.

These simple but valuable investigations include: 1. Flow rate: Flow rates can vary from day to day, and a poor flow may not necessarily mean there is an obstruction; it may result from a weak bladder.

2. Residual urine: Residual urine can be measured by abdominal ultrasound, and again this may vary from day to day.

In selected cases further evaluation of the prostate gland can be obtained via a dedicated ultrasound rectal examination, which assesses the character and volume of the prostate and may help in the management or treatment of the disease.

GP SESSIONS: Seasonal Flu Vaccine For most people, seasonal flu is an unpleasant illness which lasts for 7-10 days. In certain people, however, it can have much more serious implications ‘At risk’ groups are entitled to a free vaccination on the NHS to protect them from catching flu and risking serious complications.

Those ‘at risk’ are: • 65+ • Pregnant: Whatever stage of pregnancy they’re in, it is recommended that all pregnant women should have the seasonal flu vaccine, as they are found to have an increased risk

of developing complications if they catch flu, particularly the H1N1 strain. It is safe to have the vaccine at any stage of pregnancy • Have a serious medical condition: including: chronic respiratory disease, such as severe asthma, COPD or bronchitis; chronic heart disease, such as heart failure; chronic kidney disease; chronic liver disease, such as hepatitis; chronic neurological disease, such as a stroke,

Let the moustache growing begin..!

Treatment Not every patient necessarily needs intervention. Those with mild symptoms and no abnormal examination findings may only need to be watched and reviewed regularly. Medical treatment includes tablets, which can help the bladder outlet relax and open up, while other medication can lead to the shrinkage of the prostate, which could ease the constriction around the central part of the gland. One should acknowledge that, as with most medications, these drugs have adverse effects that should be made clear to the individual patient before treatment begins.

Surgical Options Traditionally, surgical treatment known as TUR (Transurethral resection of the prostate gland) aims to remove the inner zone

The colder weather may not be the whole reason behind thousands of moustached men trotting round town. Fancy facial hair doesn’t just keep the cold out; for many men it’s a hat tip to the month of Movember: men supporting the promotion of raising awareness about prostate and testicular cancers.

The official rules: 1. You must begin the 1st November with a clean shaven face 2. For the entire month of Movember you must grow and groom a moustache 3. There must be no joining of the moustache to your side burns, this is considered a beard 4. No joining of the handlebars to your chin, this is considered a goatee 5. Every man must conduct himself like a true country gentleman Testicular cancer is the biggest cause of cancer-related deaths in men aged 15-35 years. So show your support for a great cause, and grow a mo!

tissue to produce a wide open channel for urine flow to pass through. It is important to point out that while impotence is not

Thanks to www.movember.com

necessarily the outcome of surgery, it can cause most patients to become infertile.

However, there is now another surgical option available to prostate patients. Green Light Laser Therapy is an advanced technology and acknowledged as a safe and effective procedure, where prostate tissue can be removed by a special high-powered laser energy, which heats up the prostate tissue causing it to vaporize. This minimally invasive procedure can be performed as a day case, meaning no hospital stay, and can limit some of the effects of traditional surgery. Other benefits include less blood loss, quicker recovery, and a lessened risk of erectile dysfunction.

It is prudent to state that attending a “one stop prostate assessment unit”, like the one at The Wellington Hospital, could be helpful in achieving a better quality of life outcome for a man and his prostate.

TIA or post-polio syndrome; diabetes • A weakened immune system: due to conditions such as HIV, or treatments that suppress the immune system such as chemotherapy • Living in a long-stay residential care home: or other long-stay care facility • The main carer for an elderly or disabled person: whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill, or a frontline health or social care worker • Children over the age of six months with a long-term condition: such as a serious respiratory or neurological condition If you do not fall into any of these categories, but still want a flu jab, contact Dr Anderson at The Wellington Hospital. Vaccines cost just £15.

To arrange an appointment at The Wellington Hospital, please contact The Enquiry Helpline on 020 7483 5148 or visit www.thewellingtonhospital.com

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Not just another day at the office WELCOME TO TOWN HALL HOTEL & APARTMENTS

Not just another day at the office WELCOME TO TOWN HALL HOTEL & APARTMENTS

T O W N H A L L H O T E L & A PA R T M E N T S

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Patriot Square, London, e2 9nf

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+44 0460 +44 (0)20 (0)20 7871 7621 8783

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www.townhallhotel.com

T O W N H A L L H O T E L & A PA R T M E N T S ABTA0210_TOWNHALL.indd 1

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Patriot Square, London, e2 9nf

15/1/10 09:49:00

interview men’s trend jewellery

montblanc red & black ..................................EAST meets west ............................................................... ....................................................

Meet the Maisons

I This month, SalonQP cordially invites you to the 2011 SalonQP event, where you can discover the inside story of fine watch-making

f you’ve longed to learn how the intricate internal mechanics of the world’s most complicated watches work, or to meet the faces behind your favourite brands, then keep 10-12 November free. On these dates, the fittingly art-filled confines of the Saatchi Gallery are playing host to the 2011 SalonQP. The horological equivalent of an international motor show, SalonQP showcases the very best in the world of luxury watches, housing a huge selection of rare timepieces and new models, as well as holding debates and lectures by QP contributors, watchmakers, designers and auction experts.

The carpets of the Saatchi Gallery are welcoming representatives not only from venerable maisons such as Cartier, Vacheron Constantin and Girard-Perregaux, but also from more modern marques, including Bremont, De Bethune and MB&F. Adding an interactive element to the event is Jaeger-LeCoultre, hosting watch-making master classes, while Bulgari’s mirrored kaleidoscope promises to provide a unique insight into the intricate workings of a complicated timepiece movement. n SalonQP, The Saatchi Gallery, 10-12 November

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Joule_FP_A42_Layout 1 16/09/2011 12:45 Page 1

FINE DIAMOND JEWELLERY & BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

Fine Diamond Jewellery & Bridal Boutique

Established 1975, our independent boutique specialises in unique designer engagement rings, individual wedding bands, dazzling eternity rings and a beautiful selection of fine jewellery.

Our In-house designers offer a high quality bespoke jewellery design service.

Joule also offers jewellery valuations, repairs and re-modelling.

5 FLASK WALK, HAMPSTEAD, LONDON NW3 1HJ

TEL: +44 (0)207 794 7700

WWW.JOULER.COM

jewellery

collection

Our favourite three…

jewellery

news

statement cuffs

Cutting Edge

Our favourite piece this month is the Oiseaux de Paradis ring from luxury jewellers Van Cleef and Arpels

Since ancient times, the bird has been viewed in Middle Eastern and Asian cultures as a symbol of the divine; Van Cleef and Arpels’ exquisite Oiseaux de Paradis between-the-fingers ring, set with white gold and diamonds, is a little piece of jewelled heaven.

Limelight 18 carat cuff watch paved with diamonds, piaget, £154 www.piaget.co.uk

Oiseaux de Paradis ring white gold and diamonds, £26,500 Van Cleef and Arpels, 9 New Bond Street

Sun Drop Diamond A touch of the spectacular has descended from the skies into the earthly world of jewellery; the highlight of Sotheby’s Magnificent Jewels auction, taking place on 15 November in Geneva, is the remarkable Sun Drop Diamond.

The 110.03 carat yellow diamond has been graded Fancy Vivid Yellow by the Gemological Institute of America, the highest colour grading possible for a yellow diamond. This makes the exceptional, record-breaking stone the largest known pear-shaped, fancy vivid yellow diamond in the world.

The stunning rare gem was exhibited earlier this year at London’s Natural History Museum and its worth has been estimated between $11 and 15 million.

Kali Sterling Silver Strap Cuff John Hardy, £650 www.johnhardy.com

Amelia Swarovski crystal spike cuff Philippe Audibert, £865 www.NET-A-PORTER.com

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watches

collection

Editor’s Picks from…

watch

Only Watch 2011

news

Annual charity auction Only Watch was established to support research into Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Midnight GMT Tourbillon Harry Winston sold for £140,000

The Oscars of the watch world Representatives of the world’s most acclaimed watchmakers are descending upon Switzerland this month for the 11th Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix. Established to salute the excellence of worldwide horological production, the awards recognise the finest creations and most important operators in the watchmaking sector.

A jury of industry professionals, experts and collectors will identify the best watches in seven

categories: Men’s Watch, Ladies’ Watch, Design Watch, Jewellery and Artistic Crafts Watch, Complicated Watch, Sports Watch and La Petite Aiguille (the small hand) Watch.

The most prestigious prize, the “Aiguille d’Or” Grand Prix, will then be awarded to the best overall watch from all categories, a distinction last year bestowed upon Greubel Forsey’s Double Tourbillion 300 Edition Historique.

3939, Patek Philippe sold for £1,200,000

One to Watch Every month, we choose our favourite watch from the newest models and November’s watch of the month was made by Swiss brand Jaeger-LeCoultre

Enabling you to check the time in 24 time zones while displaying local time by means of large central hour, minute and seconds hands, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s beautiful new Master Geographic is the perfect traveller’s watch Master Geographic, £15,100 Jaeger-LeCoultre jaeger-lecoultre, 1a old bond street

Masterpiece Maurice Lacroix sold for £9,600

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collection interview

A Tribute to

Elegance After attending a spectacular lyrical performance at the Opera Monte Carlo and a glamorous gala dinner at Hotel de Paris to launch the Princess Grace of Monaco Collection, Annabel Harrison meets Montblanc’s charming CEO Lutz Bethge

“I

think women can do anything they decide to do.” So declared Grace

Kelly, who, in her lifetime, achieved all she set out to accomplish: beginning her career as an actress, she transformed, on a global stage, into the epitome of elegance; an adored princess, an adoring mother and an ardent philanthropist. Initially known worldwide as the darling of Hollywood, she transcended film aristocracy to become true royalty, marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco and becoming Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco.

Princess Grace was not only one of the foremost talents of her generation and unequivocally beautiful – for many, the most beautiful woman who had ever lived – but she was also a role model to millions, and with this talent and beauty came a charismatic, charming, philanthropic demeanour: “I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds and who was a kind and loving person. I would like to leave the memory of a human being with the correct attitude and who did her best to help others.”

With this aim in mind, the Princess of Monaco carried out her duties with the same commitment and discipline that she had displayed during her acting career, encouraging many emerging artists

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to pursue their dreams. Princess Grace’s lifetime commitment to the arts lives on by means of the Princess Grace Foundation-USA, which provides financial assistance and moral encouragement for the pursuit of artistic excellence.

Similarly, Montblanc promotes cultural diversity and education, and among its brand values are listed uniqueness, legacy and individuality, qualities it shares with the Princess. Thus it strikes me as entirely appropriate that Montblanc has created an exquisite collection of timepieces, writing instruments and items of jewellery, all of which pay tribute to Princess Grace’s “unprecedented elegance”. After all, the company “consciously takes time for the things that are really important – for people and ideas, for thoughts and feelings, for beauty and culture”, a sentiment which would undoubtedly have rung true for Princess Grace too.

The Collection was launched in Monaco on 8 September at a glittering event attended by H.S.H. Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, as well as Eva Herzigova, Naomi Watts, Daryl Hannah, Jerry Hall and Olivia Palermo, and guests took the opportunity to dress up in respect to the Princess’s timeless style. Every piece in the collection is embellished with filigree petal cut

interview

collection

Howell Conant - Bob Adelman Books, Inc

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Uniqueness

Dedication

Above: Watch in red gold with baguette and round diamonds, one pink drop sapphire and one Montblanc diamond.

Limited to eight pieces

stones to honour the Grace de Monaco pink rose, created in 1956 on the occasion of her Royal Wedding, which garnered worldwide attention and adoration. Pale pink roses filled the whole venue to tie in with this emblem, infusing the collection with softness and prettiness.

“There were a lot of memories to take back home last night”, Montblanc CEO Lutz Bethge tells me proudly, when we meet after the launch. “We wanted to pay tribute to a great princess and a great style icon and I think it was wonderful... When I was speaking to Prince Albert of Monaco afterwards, he said he had seen glimpses of the video Bob [Robert Wilson, the director of the tribute performance at the launch event] used of his mother, but he had never seen the full version. He was very touched.”

Bethge is immaculately dressed and impeccably mannered, as befits a brand which has built itself around stylish, sophisticated products. It strikes me again and again during our conversation that Montblanc often pays more attention to detail than consumers, at least those without a passionate interest in a product’s development and design, would ever notice. The Princess Grace Collection, which has taken four years to develop, has taken inspiration from both personal family preferences and public facing royal insignia. Because the image of his mother in the black evening dress, opening white curtains, is Prince Albert’s favourite picture of his mother, “the Collection’s pen used the shape of the dress, as well as the Princess Grace ‘G’, the crown and the coat of arms”, Bethge explains: “We try to capture the spirit of people in our writing instruments, to romance these objects.”

Montblanc once created a John Lennon pen and it provoked a fierce emotional response: “People said, ‘I never thought about buying a pen but this John Lennon pen, I must have!’ This is what I’m talking about – this passion and creativity.”

These are words Bethge used frequently; passion, pride and creativity are clearly qualities that for Bethge, and indeed Montblanc, are of paramount importance. “When you go to our

Culture factories, or when you talk to the people there, you always feel they are extremely passionate about what they do.” This passion is a hallmark of any successful company and, although I was in Monaco to see the Princess Grace Collection, Montblanc is known worldwide for its beautiful, diverse portfolio of writing instruments, which inspire passion in their owners. Montblanc is deeply rooted in the culture of writing, the language of thought, and indeed, as Montblanc points out, “one of the oldest ways of giving expression to the human spirit.” Many people buy Montblanc pens, to celebrate reaching a certain level of success, or are given them to mark special occasions in their lives; Bethge still uses a Meisterstück he was given for his 21st birthday, “possibly the most famous and recognised writing instrument of our time”. I adore the fact that Mr Bethge often shuns the shorter, more mundane label ‘pen’, preferring to use the far more suitably elevated ‘writing instrument’.

Bethge wasn’t initially sure about joining Montblanc, more than 20 years ago. He was pleased that the company was based in Hamburg, a city he liked, but what swung the decision was the head-hunter who approached him. “I was very rare for head-hunters to be so passionate about what the brand had achieved and what it wanted to achieve. Afterwards I met the CEO in Hamburg and I felt the same passion – I was spellbound.”

One of the first things I asked Bethge was how he feels about the technology juggernaut of the 21st century, trampling the traditional methods of communication that stand in its path, paper giving way to e-documents, letters bowing to email and telegrams being replaced by texts. How can a company renowned for producing the definitive luxury writing instrument survive, if this modern steamroller removes all need for writing?

Bethge has much to say on the matter. “First of all, I believe that the more high tech the world is, and the faster it is turning, the more people long for some grounding, things that are real. And certainly writing will never go away. You may send love emails or texts, or even break up by email or text message, but you won’t keep them in a wooden box with a ribbon round it. When someone writes to you by hand, they open up their personality to you. They are saying, ‘I really

What Montblanc has achieved, which is really unique, is to make writing instruments jewellery which happens to write

Creativity

Below: Fountain pen in solid gold, decorated with diamonds and rubies, clip embellished with drop-cut diamond and handcrafted gold nib.

Limited to three pieces

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Individuality Soul-makersResponsibility Left: Necklace in white gold, diamonds, pink sapphires and Montblanc diamond

love and appreciate you’. Writing will always be in fashion, particularly in the computer age. What Montblanc has achieved, which is really unique, is to make writing instruments jewellery which happens to write.”

When a company has the craftsmanship capabilities and design vision to create such jewellery-esque writing instruments, it seems that diversification is inevitable. However, for Bethge, branching out and becoming a “luxury maison” was the biggest challenge he faced. “People would say, ‘you make writing instruments – what is your qualification [to do other things]?’ Well, first of all, we’re strongly supported by our roots – we are craftsmen and we know how to work in fine mechanics.

And we are passionate and determined and committed. When we started with watches, we really believed we could become one of the serious, true watch brands and today we are – nobody would doubt this any more. We do not want to be just a label.”

The customers who appreciated the special jewellery-type craftsmanship expected no less of the watches, considering Montblanc as the pinnacle of excellence in writing instruments.

Being the best of the best is conveyed by the company’s name, taken from Europe’s highest mountain, and its iconic white emblem, inspired by the permanently snow-capped summit with its six glacier tongues. In China, Montblanc’s biggest emerging market, Bethge points out that the middle classes are “becoming successful and want to show it, and that’s very easy with a Montblanc writing instrument. Show the star and this signifies a successful and cultural lifestyle – this is what the customer sees with our brand.”

Brand continuity is very important to Bethge: “In the end a customer buys into a brand because he appreciates the creativity and he appreciates the design but also the values of the brand – ours is about timeless elegance, craftsmanship, quality.

You always have to make sure that overall the customer knows this is the basis for everything – this is why he wants to buy it. If you become overly creative and leave the roots, which we have defined as timeless elegance, you may lose the customer.”

The thread of continuity that runs through the product lines – whether pens, watches, jewellery, leather or eyewear – is that people have a sentimental attachment to

Innovation

their Montblanc possessions and use them for decades. “The general basis,” Bethge explains, “is that we create timeless pieces, ones that customers are proud to wear in ten, 20 years.

In particular, I see this with people who love fashion – it’s for the moment. After a few months or a year, you say, ‘no good’. We provide the complementary product – you can have the latest fashion or the latest gadgets but something which you have received at an important moment – your wedding or graduation – holds good memories. It becomes a lifetime companion and you want to keep it forever – this is what customers are looking for.”

What customers are looking for, however, has changed. Bethge weathered the recession with Montblanc and observed a shift in consumer preferences. He uses the expression “bling bling” to describe the trend before the 2008 financial crisis and considers this trend to have faded somewhat: “There are still many products around with lots of diamonds but the overt loudness we experienced pre-2008 is over – people went back to values which they felt were sustainable. They were looking for things that were special and different, and which they knew would last.” For some, this something special was the Montblanc Tourbillon Mysterieuse.

Because watches take so long to bring to market, it happened to launch at the peak of the crisis in January 2009, not offering a “favourable mood” for Montblanc’s most expensive watch to date, at €200,000. However, the whole annual production sold in three months: “For me this was a very clear sign. Even in the crisis, when people were being careful with their money, they found something which was really creative, different and which they really appreciate.”

As time runs out, I ask Mr Bethge what the best part of his job is and, once again, passion is paramount: “The biggest pleasure is to know that every year, and every month, you can make your customers go wild. That’s not me – that’s the craftsmen, the designers and everyone who has contributed to it. I share new products with the customers regularly and when they say ‘wow, how did you do this?’, well, you can’t buy that.”

With more than a century of its history already written, Montblanc has much of its story yet to tell. n Montblanc, 13 Old Bond Street www.montblanc.com www.montblanc-tribute-to-grace.com

Legacy

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collection jewellery

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WEST Jewellery trends look towards the Orient this season with bold statements, long beaded necklaces, Japanese art, jade and coral

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10 1 Rosarietto 24-carat gold-plated jade necklace, £315, Rosantica, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 2 18-carat red gold Amadeo Convertible 7-Day Tourbillon Dragon and Phoenix, POA, Bovet www.bovet.com 3 Beaded necklace, £315, Chan Luu at Fenwicks, 63 New Bond Street 4 Jade gold-plated drop earrings, £305, Yves Saint Laurent, 32-33 Old Bond Street 5 Lucky 18-carat rose and yellow gold cuff, £5,220, Carolina Bucci, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 6 Theodora jade and oxidized brass necklace, £415, Dannijo, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 7 Sterling silver coral drop earrings, £470, Kara Ross at Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge 8 L.U.C XP Urushi 18-carat rose gold watch with peacock dial, £14,030, Chopard, 12 New Bond Street 9 22-carat gold-plated crystal ring, £145, Kenneth Jay Lane, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 10 Cherry quartz teardrop earrings, £140, Astley Clarke, www.astleyclarke.com

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men’s luxury

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Put your money on both this season by selecting accessories in two colours that never go out of style

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Big Bang 48 mm Red Magic, POA, Hublot, 31 New Bond Street 2 21 Blackjack, £110,000, Christophe Claret, www.christopheclaret.com 3 Black Buffalo Leather iPhone Case with silver colibri, £240, John Hardy at Harrods 4 Véloce LeDIX Watch Cell Phone, £193,000, Celsius X VI II at Harrods 5 Millemiglia writing instruments, POA, Cuervo y Sobrinos www.cuervoysobrinos.com 6 Red Crystal Skull Cufflinks, £89, Paul Smith, 16 Royal Arcade, Mayfair 7 Driving Gloves in red leather, £386, Versace at Selfridges and Harrods 8 Garnet Intrecciato VN Wallet in red leather, £245, Bottega Veneta, 33 Sloane Street 9 Black Widow Mr Race, £41,000, Ladoire at Kronometry 1999, 106 New Bond Street 10 Tourmaline Intrecciato Nappa Belt, £300, Bottega Veneta, as before

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www.topgearlive.co.uk

Find out more about the movie at www.topgearlive.co.uk/lemans

autosportsltd.com

HELP US MARK THE LAUNCH OF THE ALL-NEW TOP GEAR LIVE EVENT AT LONDON EXCEL WITH AN ALL-STAR GALA DINNER ON THURSDAY 24 NOVEMBER

JOIN US TO CELEBRATE THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LEGENDARY RACING FILM, LE MANS, AT THE TOP GEAR LIVE GALA EVENING, THURSDAY 24TH NOVEMBER. ENJOY A SUPERB THREE-COURSE DINNER IN THE COMPANY OF SOME OF THE STARS AND CARS FROM THE MOVIE, TOGETHER WITH STEVE MCQUEEN’S SON, CHAD MCQUEEN. SPACES ARE STRICTLY LIMITED, CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR TABLE

Find out more

Stephanie Fox | call 020 7370 8341 | email stephanie.fox@clarionevents.com

Personality Rights of STEVE MCQUEEN are used with permission of Chadwick McQueen and The Terry McQueen Testamentary Trust. Represented exclusively by GreenLight.

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motoring endurance sports

BMW 650i four deserts .....................................................aegon masters .............................................................................. .............................................

Pedal to the Metal

Y Embrace the power and precision of armystandard aeronautics in your own home

ou could throw around words like ‘unique’, ‘exclusive’ or even ‘one-off’ when you talk about the Lycoming R680 9 Cylinder Radial Engine Table, but you wouldn’t even be getting close to its brilliance. Created in the USA around 1936, the engine supporting the glass table structure comes from a US Army Boeing-Stearman PT-13 and was acquired from the Canadian Museum of Flight at Langley in British Columbia.

Currently being showcased at Decoratum in St John’s Wood, the piece is available

for purchase and would make an incredible addition to any home. Perfect for adrenaline junkies, history buffs and even those with an eye for dynamic style, the clear glass top provides the perfect view of the intricate engine structure beneath. Why not add it to a games room, or inject some modern style to a more traditional space?

Decoratum boasts one of Europe’s largest and most exciting collections of 20th Century and contemporary furniture design. n www.decoratum.com

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FUEL FOR THOUGHT Matthew Carter is very impressed with BMW’s attempts to marry supercar performance with hatchback economy – but it’s a shame the 650i has no soul

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his is going to sound a touch bizarre, but one of the most significant figures about the new BMW 650i is not its top speed (limited, as ever, to 155 mph), nor the fact that this heavyweight Bimmer takes a little less than five seconds to sprint from rest to 60mph. No, the you-got-to-be-kidding-me fact is that you can get more than 25 miles on each gallon, without having to adopt absurd fuel saving measures – you know, 45mph in the inside lane.

Like all manufacturers, BMW is striving to clean up its act with cars that use less fuel than before, and which don’t chuck out as much in the way of emissions, yet lose nothing in the way of performance or refinement. BeeEm’s answer is what it calls Efficient Dynamics. Smaller but more powerful engines, lighter materials, that sort of thing. Back in the day, the ‘50i’ bit on the end of a BMW’s badge signified a 5.0-litre V12 engine. It was a glorious thing, smooth and powerful but with a serious drink problem.

But for some time the 650i has been powered by nothing grander than a 4.4-litre V8 and the latest in the line is no different. Not that that’s a bad thing; the BMW V8 drivetrain, twin turbos and all, is one of the best in the world.

But more of that in a moment: first, let’s look at the new 6-series, launched earlier this year and initially available in convertible form only.

A conventional two-door coupé is due soon, however, and both will be joined next year by a Mercedes CLS-baiting four-door coupé.

Although essentially new from the ground up, the latest 6 follows a pretty familiar pattern – big, long bonnet, acres of room for two in the front, two pretty pointless rear seats (though the rear compartment is larger than before), a roomy boot and a fabric roof that takes 19 seconds to lower – and a few more to raise.

It also retains one neat feature from the last model, the small, glass rear window that can be lowered independently to increase the flow of fresh air through the cabin without having to go

motoring

the whole hog and lower the roof. With the top down, the window remains in place to act as a wind jammer to prevent buffeting. In the British climate, though, you’ll drop the window more often than the roof.

To my eyes at least, it also looks a whole lot better than its predecessor. The outgoing car suffered that curious ‘afterthought’ clamshell boot lid that looked like then design chief Chris Bangle had forgotten to include one in his original sketches. The new car is handsome, and mature even, if a little conservative. The interior, too, is a master class in how it should be done.

The sat nav screen is readably large, while its rotary control now works intuitively, unlike the original version a few years ago. The test car came with head-up display, an option worth every penny of its £980 tag. In a car this fast and this easy to drive, a constant reminder of your speed and the prevailing speed limit displayed in your line of vision is a real licence saver.

This brings us back to that drivetrain. The engine is unbelievably flexible which, when

matched to BMW’s latest eight speed auto, provides overtaking performance that’s barely believable. It’s all delivered without fuss or drama and with fuel economy exceptional for such a large V8. As a Grand Tourer the 650i is almost without rival. As a sports car, though, it lacks on a number of levels. The car is heavier than before and feels it, while the steering is never communicative. This is not a machine for point and squirt driving, despite its vastly complex electronic Adaptive Drive chassis (a £3,400 option) which gives the driver four different settings – Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ – to chose from.

After many miles of experimentation I reverted to the default Normal setting, which gives a cosseting ride at the expense of handling precision and steering feel. Sport sharpens the handling but ruins ride comfort. And as for Sport +, let’s just say that every setting is a compromise. In the end I decided that the £3,400 saved would be better spent elsewhere: as ever with a BMW, there’s ample opportunity to spend more than the sticker price by ticking a few extra options; the test car came with nearly £12,000 worth of extras. You can get a brand new Mini for less.

In so many ways the 650i is a lovely thing – and the engine is a peach – but the whole is ultimately uninvolving. And that’s why, I guess, I got more excited by its fuel economy than its performance. Bizarre indeed. n

calibre

IN BRIEF Car: BMW 650i SE Convertible Price: £73,430 Engine: 4,395 cc V8-cylinder petrol Power: 402 hp Drive: Rear-wheel drive Performance: 155 mph max (limited), 0-62 mph in 5.0seconds

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MAN & MACHINE The Top Gear Live London Gala is celebrating the 40th anniversary of Steve McQueen’s epic motion picture Le Mans, in association with Paramount Home Entertainment

If there was ever a film that motoring dreams are made of, it’s Le Mans. Perhaps the most iconic and certainly one of the most beloved car films in cinematic history, this Steve McQueen epic brought the adrenaline-charged, yet glamorous, world of motorsport to the masses.

Filmed largely live and first-hand at the Le Mans race, the driving is raw, exciting and real. This legendary piece of cinematography (which featured no less than 26 high performance race cars, 41 stunt drivers and some 350,000 French speaking extras) is a real racing fanatic’s film, seamlessly incorporating the delicate balance of exhilarating atmosphere with the carefully honed skills of the drivers.

Filmed in 1970 using cutting-edge techniques, the movie featured the sublime Porsche 917 and the magnificent Ferrari 512, and is remembered for its fast and furious live footage.

So what better setting to celebrate the 40th anniversary of one of the greatest races on earth, than the Top Gear Live London Gala, in association with Paramount Home Entertainment?

The evening festivities are certain to deliver an unforgettable look back into its creation, release and iconic cult status.

For one night only, VIP guests will be joined by Chad McQueen (son of the late Steve McQueen) alongside stunt-

40th ANNIVERSARY BLU-RAY EDITION The high-octane, throttle-revving classic Le Mans has been digitally re-mastered and is now available on Blu-ray Disc from Paramount Home Entertainment, in honour of its 40th anniversary.

This special edition includes a beautifully transferred feature, a making of the movie special and original theatrical trailer.

Hollywood legend Steve McQueen stars in this exhilarating racing adventure, featuring a breathtaking recreation of one of the toughest endurance tests on earth, France’s annual 24 Hours of Le Mans car race. 45 international racing stars join Steve McQueen in the 1971 picture, demonstrating the power of legendary Porsche 917s and Ferrari 512s. Filmed on location in France, the film’s exceptional cinematography provides a spectacular glimpse into the world’s most extraordinary cars and the personalities of the people drawn to the circuit.

Le Mans is also available to own on Paramount Home Entertainment DVD

driver and racing legends Derek Bell and David Piper, as they reminisce about the making of the film.

Both Bell and Piper were stunt drivers on Le Mans and risked their lives more than once, sustaining major injuries as they dedicated themselves to McQueen’s mission to create the best, most realistic film about motorsport. The race sequences in the film were filmed at high-speed using techniques that had never before been used; the result is a feast for the senses and a startlingly realistic representation of the frenzied excitement that surrounded the drivers.

In fact, to ensure the film was as realistic as possible, McQueen even entered a car into the race in order to capture footage for the film. At one stage they even had a chance of winning, but additional stops to change film and work on the cameras meant that unfortunately they were not a real contender.

The Gala night will be a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to get close to these stunt-driving stars of one of the most iconic car racing films ever produced. In addition, David Piper’s stunning original 1969 Porsche 917 will also feature at the Le Mans celebration. Derek Bell not only appears in the exclusive gala festivities but also features throughout the Top Gear Live event on it purpose built indoor track.

As part of the celebrations, which are hosted by Ed Foster of Motor Sport Magazine, guests will be granted a rare insight into this unforgettable film as they watch restored film footage, view stills and become privy to behind-thescenes material, whilst sharing in the memories of those who were there. Each of the special guests will discuss their involvement in the film, the personal sacrifices they made, and what it was like really working with Le Mans hero, Steve McQueen.

A unique event, the Top Gear Live London Gala is part of Top Gear Live; a production which offers a variation on more traditional motor shows, bringing the jovial yet passionate and knowledgeable spirit of the popular television programme to the live events arena. Starring favourite presenters, Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond, the event features an indoor track, exhibition and Live Action Arena.

Top Gear Live London Gala 24 November 2011 Top Gear Live runs from 11-13 November at NEC Birmingham and 24-27 November at ExCeL London. For more information about the show or to book VIP Tickets call the VIP Team on 0207 370 8341 or visit www.topgearlive.co.uk

“Le Mans is available to own on Paramount Home Entertainment DVD or Blu-ray disc” © 1971 Cinema Center Films and Solar Productions. All Rights Reserved.

TM, (R) & Copyright (c) 2011 by Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Personality Rights of STEVE MCQUEEN are used with permission of Chadwick McQueen and The Terry McQueen Testamentary Trust. Represented exclusively by GreenLight.

VANTAGEpromotion

THE GALA EVENT

2pm: Top Gear Live opens for the first time at London’s ExCeL 2:20-3:50pm: VIP Guests take in a track session from the exclusive VIP Trackside Enclosure. Chris Evans features as Star in Reasonably Priced Car Live 4pm: Gala Evening Champagne Reception, commences in ExCeL’s Platinum Suite, followed by a three-course meal Join Chad, David and Derek as they celebrate 40 6pm: years of the film Le Mans and reminisce about working with Steve McQueen, hosted by Ed Foster from Motor Sport Magazine Guests enjoy the London premiere of the Live Action 7:30pm: Arena featuring Clarkson, Hammond and May followed by a backstage tour Tickets for the Gala event are £425.00 + VAT per person for further information call the VIP Team on 0207 370 8341

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exceeding your expectations

Luxury

Car Hire

Whether it’s for business, a special occasion, test drive or just for fun, VIP Car Hire can cater. We provide car hire from three days to 12 months and our fleet includes Ferrari 458 & F430, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, Bentley GTC, Range Rovers and many more all the way down to the Mini Cooper S. We also offer a nationwide delivery service with any of our cars.

contact@vipservices.co.uk www.vipservices.co.uk

Tel: 020 7407 2121

sports

sports

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calibre

New York Marathon If taking a well-deserved holiday to New York, lend your support and sympathy to the runners of the ING New York City Marathon.

Taking place on 6 November, the event attracts more than 100,000 applicants annually. The race brings together many world-class professional athletes, not only for the $600,000 in prize money but also for the chance to excel in front of two million spectators and 315 million worldwide television viewers. Entrants run through the streets of New York’s five boroughs: Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Manhattan.

Home

www.nycmarathon.org

Hennessy Winter Festival day festival promises to keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Choose from a wide selection of top class hospitality packages and experience the excitement of the races in style and luxury.

24-26 November www.racecoursehospitality.net

AWAY

The National Hunt returns to Newbury from 24 to 26 November in what many people consider the highlight of the racing year. Certain to attract some of the biggest crowds of the season, and featuring one of Britain’s most prestigious jump races, the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup, this three

Prestige Ticketing A new report commissioned by Prestige Ticketing Limited, the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games’ official on-site hospitality provider, predicts that companies investing in corporate hospitality at the Games will most likely earn a return on investment exceeding 12 per cent, which is valued at an estimated £1.6bn for the companies involved.

Some 2.2 million Olympic tickets are promised to international sports fans, NOCs, sponsors and international federations. However, it is also estimated that around 6.6 million tickets will go on sale to the British public; so, if you were unlucky first time round, you are still in for a chance to attend this monumental sporting event. www.prestigeticketing.london2012.com

the fast and the furious Sebastian Vettel made F1 history in October when he became only the ninth driver to win back-toback world titles. Following Vettel’s coronation as 2011 F1 king, the season draws to a close this month with the final Grand Prix taking place in Brazil on 27 November. Two weeks before that,

Sporting Soundbite

the season’s penultimate race takes drivers to Abu Dhabi for the Etihad Airways Grand Prix. Make the most of the end of the season by booking your tickets for a two day or weekend pass now.

Abu Dhabi - 13 November, Brazil - 27 November www.formula1.com

The Olympics remain the most compelling search for excellence that exists in sport, and maybe in life itself.

Dawn Fraser, Australian swimmer, 3-time Olympic Games gold medallist

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Let me

entertain you

Later this month, the world’s best tennis players of old will face off once more at the Aegon Masters. Lee Brooks speaks to the legendary court jester Mansour Bahrami ahead of the sporting event

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hen tennis players retire, it’s often because a younger, fitter, hungrier generation of opponents has emerged and their chances to challenge for silverware are severely reduced. The talent for entertaining, and the desire to do so, remains, however, so rather than putting their feet up and signing up for their free bus pass, the likes of John McEnroe, Ivan Lendl, Pete Sampras and Mansour Bahrami have refused to down tools.

Instead, they’ve joined another series called the ATP Champions Tour, which brings together the legends of tennis. Throughout the year, players compete in a series of events, playing best of three set matches in a ‘round robin’ format before the top two play in the final. The season then culminates with the AEGON Masters at the iconic

Royal Albert Hall. This year is the 15th time our capital has hosted the event and once again, expect a combination of competitive singles matches. However, it’s the light-hearted, crowd-pleasing doubles matches, featuring self-professed oncourt jester Bahrami as the star attraction, which really make the tournament stand out.

Unable to afford his own racket, Bahrami, now 54, taught himself to play tennis with a frying pan and made the Iranian Davis Cup team, despite never having been coached.

After failing to make his mark on the professional tour, he is now a regular on the seniors’ tour, spending 40 weeks of the year playing various tournaments and exhibitions, showing his vast array of trick shots. From catching a lob in the pocket of his shorts or playing a drop shot, which bounces back over due to excessive spin, to hitting clean

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calibre

THE YOUNGSTERS A week before the AEGON Masters takes place, the men’s tour sees the culmination of their gruelling season with the ATP World Tour finals at The O2 Arena. The world’s top eight players face off in a gladiatorial tennis battle of will.

This season, Novak Djokovic has been a revelation, winning the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open to inch to within touching distance of confirming the year-end world number one ranking. Former world number one and 14-time Grand Slam champion Pete Sampras described Djokovic’s season as “one of the best achievements in all of sports”.

Despite Djokovic falling one win short of McEnroe’s record-setting 42-match winning streak earlier this season, McEnroe also believes the world number one’s record tops his achievement. “Given that there’s more competition, more athleticism and deeper fields now, I’d say his record is even more impressive than mine,” he said.

Former world leaders Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, along with Britain’s Andy Murray, join forces with Djokovic to make this season one of the most competitive ever. With just one major tournament left on this year’s calendar, the trio will be keen to end their years on a high and set themselves up for an attempt at breaking the Serbian’s dominance next season.

“The standard is amazingly strong at the moment and the players are great,” said Bahrami, who admitted to watching plenty of tennis and checking the results every day. “One thing is for sure, they are not funny but we want great players and not clowns on the court – that’s my job! If you want to succeed and be number one in the world you have to be focused and play serious tennis.”

Visit www.barclaysatpworldtourfinals.com for more information

winners with his back facing the court, Bahrami has an endless supply of shots with which to entertain the crowds.

“I learnt all my trick shots playing and seeing how people reacted to what I did,” said Bahrami. “I started doing trick shots even when I was as young as ten.

“Now I do it a lot more easily and much better but most of them just happen one time in a match and if people laugh I try to do it again the next time. I’m not sure which is my favourite, but I like the one when I’m running back to get a ball and I hit it behind, not through my legs, but beside my right leg. That one is the most difficult.”

While Bahrami wouldn’t be drawn on naming a favourite doubles partner, he did single out Peter McNamara, who won 19 ATP doubles titles, as his favourite opponent. “I love to play against Macca [McNamara]”, confessed Bahrami. “I can’t do what I do very well without him on the other side.

I love him and he is a great friend. It is always my favourite to be on the court with him. But regarding the people I play with, I am happy to play with all of the guys.”

Bahrami has been a regular fixture at the Royal Albert Hall since the event was first hosted in 1997 and he can think of few venues where he would rather play. “The atmosphere in the Albert Hall is unique and the people are really close to you,” he said. “It is a great venue and I love that we play in the day and at night. The crowd is always full

of energy and because the Hall was built for music, the noise gives it an amazing atmosphere. The venue is one of the most special venues we get to play in.”

Also in the doubles, Goran Ivanisevic, Pat Rafter and Tim Henman will reunite alongside McEnroe to mark the 10th anniversary of an epic Wimbledon. British fans will remember the heartache when an unfortunate rain break destroyed Henman’s best chance of reaching a coveted Wimbledon final, as a rejuvenated Ivanisevic fought back to beat the Brit before overcoming Rafter in a thrilling five-set humdinger.

In the singles, McEnroe leads an all-star cast, which also includes Pat Cash, Mark Philippoussis, Pat Cash, Tim Henman and Goran Ivanisevic, as the American returns to the London venue for the first time in three years. The 52-year-old has won the title four times in his career and believes he’s fitter now that than eight years ago when he last won the event.

“The London tournament has always been one of my favourite events of the year,” he said. “The crowds are really fantastic, the atmosphere is great and the Royal Albert Hall is one of the most spectacular arenas I’ve ever played in. I still love to compete and I always play to win, so I am training hard to be able to bring my best tennis back to London.” n Visit www.aegonmasterstennis.com for more information

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12 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LR TEL: +44 (0) 20 3405 1437 EMAIL: bachet.london@bachet.fr www.bachet.fr

travel moroccan DESIGN food & drink sommelier secrets out & about landmark opera ........................................ . ...

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Artistic Approach

S Design-led decor leads the way at Mayfair stalwart, Sketch

ketch has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the coolest, hippest hangouts in London, proudly holding its own against more modern pretenders to the throne, due in no small part to its bold approach to interior design.

While its pod-shaped, individual bathrooms have remained the most talked about of Sketch’s design features, the other bars and restaurants, split over three floors, are equally unique and engaging.

Breakfast in the Parlour is a delicious start to the day, with a rustic, eccentric warmth that lends itself well to the oncoming winter months. For fine-dining

of the highest order, head to The Lecture Room & Library (above), a riot of colour and decadence, the baroque flourishes make the perfect backdrop to high-end gastronomy. Our favourite space is their ground floor restaurant, The Gallery, which showcases different video art and design year round, while The Glade’s Swarovski encrusted woodlandthemed space is fun and quirky. Channelling more modern approaches to style, the East Bar, with its sketched walls and city skyline details offers a great place for a post-dinner cocktail. n www.sketch.uk.com

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Saddle Up Visitors to south-west Switzerland’s Gstaad Saanenland slopes can now add winter horse riding and air-boarding to the list of outdoor activities available in the area.

Thrill-seekers can take their chances navigating the new dedicated airboard trial, while avid equestrians can saddle up and set out for horse riding in the unspoilt landscape or take lessons in the indoor paddock.

Accompanied hacks can last from one and a half to six hours and a sign-posted winter bridle path is open to riders setting out on their own. www.gstaad.ch

Snow and Spa be a doddle. Be pampered to perfection during your stay thanks to a new host of treatments and packages that have been launched in time for the 2011/12 ski season. The anti-inflammatory effects of the new Mud Therapy package, which involves a 50 minute full body massage with mud and marmot milk should be a godsend after a day spent traversing the Swiss mountain terrain.

Travel Fact

www.kronenhof.com

Built on a soft lake bed, Mexico City is sinking at an average rate at 10cm a year, ten times faster than Venice. The subsidence is so prominent an extra 23 steps up to the landmark Angel of Independence monument have been built.

Art District Cool

Website of the month:

The first Asian branch of the award-winning boutique brand, Grace Hotels, has opened in the Chinese capital. Grace Beijing sits in the thriving cultural 798 Art District, at the heart of the famous fashion and design centre. Inside, 30 luxury rooms and suites mix both traditional and contemporary design influences as Ming Dynasty inspired décor is combined with clean-lines, contemporary furniture and artwork to ensure a unique finish. Fresh, local fish and seafood feature strongly on the Yi House restaurant menu while, come evening, the hotel’s sophisticated Bar 798 is the place to pull up a stool and work your way through the extensive cocktail list.

www.jacadatravel.com

Enjoy both ski and spa time on a winter sojourn at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina.

Guests can hit the 350km of Engadin-St Moritz ski runs, safe in the knowledge that rest and relaxation awaits on return to the Kronenhof Spa. Indeed, with swimming and hydrotherapy pools looking out over snow-capped peaks, saunas, flotation rooms and Kneipp baths, switching off and soothing tired muscles should

This brilliant site specialises in inspired, luxury tours to Latin America.

When it comes to designing bespoke getaways, be it for an unforgettable honeymoon, a family friendly adventure or an annual holiday, Jacada Travel plans every aspect of your trip, from organising private tours led by exceptional local guides, to booking hasslefree transfers to remote locations.

Brought to you in association with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unsurpassable collection of over 500 hotels spanning 70 countries, which offer an infinite variety of experiences.

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Moroccan

Marvels

With the opening of the palatial Royal Mansour and the dramatic refurbishment of La Mamounia, Marrakech now has two of the most renowned and decadent hotels in the world, and several others that also deserve mention. Boasting interiors created by world class designers, Emma Mills went in search of divine inspiration

travel

A Timeless Palace La Mamounia Let’s start at the beginning. And there really is no better place to start than the legendary and iconic La Mamounia. A stalwart of class and elegance throughout the hotel world, while being the most renowned hotel in Marrakech, La Mamounia has been open since the

connoisseur

1920s and loved in turn throughout the years by the Queen, Churchill, Gwyneth Palthrow, Orlando Bloom and Sarah Jessica Parker. Even today it is still the place to see and be seen; everyone from major celebs to the non-famous mega-rich has graced Mamounia’s poolside loungers with their particular dose of style and charisma.

As we arrived at the hotel, fresh from the airport in the Mamounia branded Jaguar, immaculate butlers arrived to open the doors and sweep us effortlessly into the vast lobby.

Striking and imposing glass details, modern flourishes, marble sculptures and traditional touches were everywhere.

We relaxed in the tea lounge while we were checked in, sipping mint tea and eating Moroccan pastries, admiring the plush velvet, ruby reds, deep purples and gold brocade details all around us.

A refurbishment that took over three years has clearly revolutionised this hotel. While its history and charm had long touched people’s hearts, the striking Art Deco design had started to look dated, and it was decided to bring La Mamounia up to date, while at the same time reconnecting it with its Moroccan roots. To this end, you are in no doubt that you are in Morocco; signature white and red lanterns are dotted throughout the hotel, while in the suites and rooms arched doorways, tiling, rich colours and fabrics conjure classic Moroccan style.

Designer extraordinaire Jacques Garcia was hired to head up this dramatic rebirth, and his flair and signature touches are evident everywhere, not least in the famous ‘Garcia red’ which is used throughout the hotel. Signature suites pay tribute to the hotel’s illustrious past, with the Royal Suite resplendent in extravagant baroque flourishes, and the Churchill suite channelling a certain British pomp and ceremony. Further down the scale, standard suites offer a separate lounge area and two balconies, all with wonderful views across the gardens, the pool or the famous Koutoubia Mosque. Even rooms enjoy generous space, balconies, and vast bathrooms, marbled throughout.

Four restaurants offer not only more choice than you could ever need, but a wealth of inspired ideas for your own dining spaces. Al fresco dining is perfected in true Moroccan style at La Marocain, hidden away amidst the palm trees of the renowned gardens; while L’Italien offers cosy dining in hidden booths and corner tables bedecked in rich, deep colours. Le Français offers a more modern style of decor, akin to some of London’s best Michelin eateries, while La Pavillion de la Piscine serves divine, cold bottles of rose, with platters of fresh fish and salads in a relaxed sunlounger-to-table atmosphere.

I could go on and on about the beauty of La Mamounia – the five bars, for instance, are all stunning spaces with their own individuality and class. We especially loved the Churchill bar, styled in leopard print and red velvet, complete with lounge singers and lethal cocktails. But there is also something else unique and extraordinary about this place, it has a comfortable, established air that reassures and impresses at the same time. Service is beyond impeccable, without ever being obsequious. La Mamounia knows what it is, and what it has, and it wears its history with pride, while effortlessly offering the best in modern style and world class interior design. Perfection. www.mamounia.com

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A Hymn to Morocco Royal Mansour From the old to the new, and onto the out-of-this-world Royal Mansour; a veritable playground of luxury which opened in 2010, after an immense building project, and is owned by the King of Morocco. This is the kind of place where you can lose yourself completely - and you might do if the meandering inner-medina they’ve created has its way with you. Not content with building just a hotel, Royal Mansour is an entire walled city, filled with a series of one, two and three bedrooms riads, which even at their most basic offer four floors of private accommodation including your own entrance courtyard, roof terrace, butler and lounge. The two and three bedrooms riads are veritably palatial with sublime courtyards, dining rooms, open fires, private hammams and an expansive roof terrace offering dining and sunbathing areas, Bedouin tents and a beautiful day bed/chill out space.

Enter through the vast tiled gates, and you’re instantly transported to another realm. Despite the oppressive August heat, the vast reception courtyard had its own natural cooling system which draws air through the al fresco space with a light, wonderful breeze. In the colder months you are greeted in the reception by a floor-to-ceiling open fire with a glass chimney. We were offered fruit cocktails and walked with them to our riad, situated a short walk from the main building down winding streets where gardeners work quietly among pomegranate trees and trickling water features. On arrival at our riad we tried to play it cool, but it was hard.

Everything about this place is designed to impress, and as we made our way up to the private roof terrace complete with plunge pool, sun loungers and a dining table we had to pinch ourselves. We ordered wine and lunch on the terrace, which was brought to us via a vast network of behind the

scenes tunnels which ensure the staff can enter and leave your property almost unnoticed. The 24 hour butler service - which even insisted on unpacking our luggage - also means you are never left wanting.

The riads themselves are beautifully decorated, in a style echoed throughout the entire resort. No expense has been spared, and it’s worth the effort. Handmade, local and traditional crafts have been used to tile the floors, make the fabrics on the beds, create intricate glass details in the lounge, furnish the bathroom and paper the walls. In fact, Royal Mansour had so many expert artisans working on site during the construction period, that much of the hotel can be considered entirely handmade.

Restaurants are equally beautiful, and overseen by three Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alleno from Le Meurice in Paris. The casual La Table offers a wonderfully cool and exotic location for breakfast and lunch; while La Marocaine and La Francais are stunning examples of their respective cuisines, with decadent decor to match and an intimate setting for dinner, with only 35 covers in each restaurant.

The next day held delights of spa treatments, a relaxing massage and some chill out time in the awe-inspiring birdcage lounge complete with fountains, trickling water and calming lighting; while that evening we enjoyed a civilised drink in the cigar and Armagnac room, a delight for any connoisseur.

Royal Mansour was, and is meant to be, an experience in the kind of divine life of kings, and yet at the same time it has retained a real loyalty to its setting and history, and the traditional handicrafts, skills and styling of Morocco have been celebrated with considerable style and aplomb. If you want privacy, service and luxury of the highest order, this is the place to come. www.royalmansour.com

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connoisseur travel

Authentic Moroccan Style Dar les Cigognes The perfect place for a first stop in Marrakech, greeting weary travellers with warmth, hospitality and sweet mint tea. Discreetly hidden behind the thick red city walls, Dar les Cigognes’s particular quality is that it offers all the comforts of home in a simple, stylish way. The rooms are large and cool, despite the oppressive August heat, and all boast vast bathrooms with marble and mosaic tiles covering the floors and walls. Rich Moroccan colours are all around, painted walls, tiled ceilings, authentic fireplaces and traditional furniture reinforce the sense of where you are. The hamman is traditional and relaxing, a newly created massage room is cool and inviting, rose petals were sprinkled on our bed every night, fresh fruit and water kept us refreshed, and everywhere, the smells of Morocco abound, even in the shower gels and soaps left in our bathroom, created using natural products.

The roof terrace is the jewel in the crown of Dar les Cigognes – a cactus and palm tree filled haven with wicker chairs and stunning views across the medina rooftops. We grab a spot and relax in the warm evening sun with a bottle of Moroccan wine, and enjoy watching as the huge iconic storks return to their vast nests atop the nearby Royal Palace. The next morning, having slept soundly in our beautiful room, we awoke to a leisurely breakfast served on the terrace, with the sun warming our backs and the sounds of the city slowly coming to life. Simplistic perfection. www.lescigognes.com

Artistic Boho Chic Riad el Fenn Funky chic resonates from this traditional riad, a literal oasis amid the busy souks of Marrakech. But don’t expect sweeping drives and grand entrances, accessed via a series of pedestrianised alleys, this riad owes its charm to its location. A simple oak door opens to reveal a stunningly bohemian courtyard where trees and jungle plants climb skyward, birds flit through their leaves and tortoises slope around their trunks. El Fenn – a literal translation being simply ‘riad of the art’ – is the brain child of Vanessa Branson, a champion of art in Marrakech and a keen art collector herself.

Her own art lines the walls of the surprisingly vast space, which, despite its modest outward appearance, boasts two floors of accommodation, three decadent swimming pools, several other courtyards and the kind of rambling roof terrace that other riads only dream about, complete with views of the city and Koutoubia mosque, a cool bar and traditional and impressive restaurant, as well as a variety of sun terraces and even a putting green. Not to be outdone this place is also wonderful in the winter; libraries, log fires, a cinema and the downstairs restaurant and bar are a Mecca for anyone who’s someone, while a variety of shows and performances mean it makes for one of the most unique places for a night out.

Rooms too are impressive; vast and generous in space, they have gigantic bathrooms with deep, luxurious tadelakt baths, while beds are big and sumptuous. Riad el Fenn has a sublime lackadaisical feel about it, topped up with effortless cool and a nice slice of authenticity. A wonderful Moroccan experience. www.riadelfenn.com n

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food & drink

connoisseur

Best of British British ingredients will feature strongly in the new menu at Marcus Wareing at The Berkeley.

Food remains modern in direction and continues to include culinary influences from across the globe; however the recently launched dishes also celebrate the bountiful crop of fabulous, home-grown ingredients available in the British Isles. With a redefined focus, the new, sophisticated ‘Seasons of Britain Menu’ from the two Michelin-starred chef features lobster and seaweed, grouse and bread sauce, British cheeses and the Marcus Wareing take on the humble plum crumble.

food & drink

news

High Fluted

www.the-berkeley.co.uk

Flûte Bar & Lounge opens its doors to Great Portland Street’s champagne quaffing crowd this month. With two branches in Manhattan and one in Paris, Flûte is renowned for its extensive champagne and sparkling wine list that offers at least 100 varieties of fizz at any one time.

Vintage, non-vintage, prestige cuvée, rosé and boutique will be served alongside limited quantities of rare grower champagnes from carefully selected vineyards. A full bar and champagne-based cocktail list will also be on offer and guests can sip in-house created concoctions while nibbling on food from the light bites menu or spring roll bar. Meanwhile the music playlist has been left in the capable hands of New York DJs Duane Harriott and Alec DeRuggiero.

Look out for the soon to be released schedule of weekly and monthly events, including live jazz nights and champagne tasting classes.

4 Great Portland Street, W1W 8PA www. flutebar.com

Fine Dining at Home

Thanksgiving

The brilliant new dinner party service from The Mount Street Deli enables customers to combine the intimacy of a sit-down supper at home with top notch food from some of the capital’s favourite restaurants. Get a delicious range of dishes delivered straight to your door, including shepherd’s pie from The Ivy, salmon fishcakes from Le Caprice and J Sheekey’s famous fish pie.

Historically, Thanksgiving celebrates the end of the harvest season in the United States and Canada.

Keen to enjoy a slice of the celebration, JW Steakhouse in Mayfair will be holding a Thanksgiving feast of their own on Thursday 24 November.

Tuck into clam chowder, Maryland style crab cakes and traditional turkey!

www.themountstreetdeli.co.uk

Website:

Quote:

I think cooking should be about fun and family. My approach to cooking is really relaxed and not rigid. There are no rules in my kitchen.

Nigella Lawson

www.gourmet-chick.com

Food lingo:

Entertainment Press / Shutterstock.com

NEWS:

Written by Australian, London-based journalist Cara Waters, this blog is an extensive record of top-notch restaurants and cook books.

Insightfully written and witty in tone, regular blog entries means followers can get clued up on restaurant recommendations – from well-loved local spots to grand Michelin-starred eateries – both in London and further afield.

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connoisseur food & drink

Sommelier Tales

A

Jake Crimmin, head sommelier at Gaucho restaurants, talks about the ups and downs of choosing wine for his diners, and shares some of his sweeter favourites to be enjoyed during National Chocolate Week

good sense of humour is an absolute essential for a sommelier. It can be the weapon, diffuser or entertainer for many a scenario in the restaurant.

Its primary deployment, however, is as a defence mechanism for any of the many wise cracks coming from fellow front or back of house staff regarding the role. Those colleagues that have been busy sweating, stressing, burning and appeasing awkward guests before polishing off their 14 hour shift while you were busy reminiscing about the heady beauty of Mendoza’s mountain vineyards in springtime with some celebrity on table six will always have an underlying resentment for your role.

“How can I get paid to be drunk?,” they quip. “What do you actually do?” Or even, “Do you just make it up as you go along?”

These are a few of the favourite snipes fired in my direction, and no amount of getting the coffees in or helping with the glass polishing will deflect them. The only time I can come close to making my colleagues grateful for my presence is when I present them with a magical wine-food combination at a pre-shift briefing.

If you’re in Gaucho anytime soon, try a glass of Deseado (Cavas de Gaucho, £15.70, takeaway bottle price) sweet sparkling torrontes with your Dulce de Leche tart.

I’ve recently taken the guys to sweet, rich and fragrant fizzing caramel heaven by showing them this one; and they must now see the purpose of my existence as the jibes have subsided...for now.

For those of you that missed Chocolate Week last month (shameless chocolate sales ploy but do you really need an excuse?), make up for your oversight and pop into Paul A Young’s beautiful new Chocolaterie on Wardour St, Soho and stock up on some of his divine Salted Caramels along with anything else that tickles your fancy. Then get yourself to Selfridges wine or click into www.slurp.co.uk for a bottle of Mas Amiel Maury 2008, £18, a sweet fortified Grenache Noir from the Languedoc-Roussillion. Bursting with sweet spice, fragrantly light black fruits of cassis and blackberry, this is much fruitier and lighter than a port and is heaven with most dark, cocoa heavy, chocolates. If they’re worthy enough, invite your friends over for some chocolate and wine tasting experimentation.

Bottles up! n www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk/wineboutique

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Three of a Kind...

Halloween Hotspots DRINK Dukes

Getting you into the Halloween spirit of scary ghouls, cackling witches, and illuminated jack o’lanterns, the bar at Dukes Hotel has put together a series of seasonal martinis including, ‘Muddy Hell’ made of Strega Liqueur (Strega in Italian, which translates to ‘witch’), English Chase Vodka, fresh mint and cane sugar; and the decadent ‘Fleming ’89’. Dukes is a fab spot for an autumnal drink, cosy and exclusive, it offers some of the best cocktails in town. www.dukeshotel.com

This famous restaurant, which serves its diners in complete darkness, claims to offer a taste sensation unparalleled by any other restaurant. It’s a perfect night out for Halloween, creating an entirely different atmosphere from a brightly lit restaurant replete with faux cobwebs and rubber spiders.

Embrace the bizarreness of the event, let your tastebuds fully experience the difference of being unable to rely on your eyes to tell you what you’re eating, and enjoy! www.danslenoir.com

Treat Gelupo

Eat Dans Le Noir

Gelupo, Jacob Kenedy’s acclaimed Soho gelateria, will have two goulish flavours on the menu this Halloween. Their much famed sanguinaccio gelato is a combination of chocolate, pig’s blood and marsala, while the delicious pumpkin and cinnamon caters for the less daring palate. Both flavours will be available to order to your door through Gelupo’s recently launched online nationwide delivery service. www.gelupo.com

See below for a list of our valued partners and stockists of Vantage

Hair + Beauty Beauty Boutique 17 Flask Walk, NW3 1HJ 020 7431 9111 Chuan Spa 1c Portland Place, Regent Street W1B 1JA 020 7973 7550

Renew Medica Oriel Court, 12 Heath Street NW3 6TE 0844 576 8306 The Beauty Laboratory London 7 Belsize Terrace, NW3 4AX 020 7125 0303

Courtenay Chemist 3 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7NG 020 7722 3814

The Laboratory Spa & Health Club The Avenue, Muswell Hill N10 2QE 020 8482 3000

Gielly Green 42-44 George Street, W1U 7ES 020 7034 3060

Toni & Guy 30 Heath Street, NW3 6TE 020 7431 7421

Joshua Altbeck 82 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7SH 020 7722 1225

Toni & Guy 8 Marylebone High Street W1U 4NN 020 7935 7900

Lisa Hauck Hair & Makeup 148 Gloucester Avenue NW1 8JA 020 7722 1043

Vaishaly Clinic 51 Paddington Street, W1U 4HR 020 7224 6088

Lost in Beauty 117 Regents Park Road NW1 8UR 020 7586 4411 MACS LONDON 61 Kilburn High Road, NW6 5SB 020 7328 9777 MACS LONDON 9 Princess Road, NW1 8JN 020 3204 2020 Mad Lillies 34 Heath Street, NW3 6TE 020 7435 3869 Margaret Dabbs Foot Clinic & Nail Spa 7 New Cavendish Street W1G 8UU 020 7487 5510 Privato 170 Regents Park Road NW1 8XN 020 7586 6887

Health & Fitness Movers & Shapers 148 West End Lane, NW6 1SD 020 7372 4222 The Diagnostic Clinic 50 New Cavendish Street W1G 8TL 020 7009 4650 THE WELLINGTON HOSPITAL Wellington Place, St Johns Wood, NW8 9LE 020 7483 5148

Interiors Divertimenti 33/34 Marylebone High Street W1U 4PT 020 7935 0689 Graham and Green 164 Regents Park Road, NW1 8XN 020 7586 2960

Halcyon Interiors 120 Wigmore Street, W1U 3LS 020 7486 3080 hülsta Rolf Benz Westend 23-25 Baker Street , W1U 8EQ 020 7034 1930

Harry Morgan 29-31 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7NH 020 7722 1869 Jeroboams 1 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7NG 020 7722 4020

Mark Wilkinson Furniture 41 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7NJ 020 7586 9579

Lanka 71 Regents Park Road NW1 8UY 020 7483 2544

Muralto 6 Seymour Place, W1H 7NA 020 7724 3750

The Primrose Eatery 38 Primrose Hill Road, NW3 3AD 020 7483 3222

Ripples 138 Wigmore Street, W1U 3SG 020 7935 6112

The Providores and Tapa Room 109 Marylebone High Street W1U 4RX 020 7935 6175

Skandinteriors 57 South End Road, NW3 2QB 0779 464 0937

Food + Drink Brasserie Gérard 122 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7SG 020 7722 0400 Cafe Luc 50 Marylebone High Street W1U 5HN 020 7258 9878 Café Rouge 120 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7SG 020 7722 8366

The Winery 4 Clifton Road, W9 1SS 020 7286 6475

Out + About Everyman Cinema Baker Street 96-98 Baker Street W1U 6TJ 0871 906 9060 Everyman Cinema Belsize Park 203 Haverstock Hill NW3 4QG 0871 906 9060

Cocorino Alimentari 18 Chiltern Street, W1U 7QA 020 7935 0860

Everyman Cinema Hampstead 5 Holly Bush Vale, NW3 6TX 0871 906 9060

Gelato Mio 138 St. John’s Wood High Street NW8 7SE 020 0011 3889

Hampstead Theatre Eton Avenue, Swiss Cottage NW3 3EU 020 7722 9301

Ginger & White 4A-5A Perrins Court NW3 1QS 020 7431 9098

Heartbreak Gallery 17 Bulstrode Street W1U 2JH 020 3219 5710

If you are a local business and would like to stock Vantage, please contact Fiona Fenwick on 020 7987 4320, f.fenwick@runwildgroup.co.uk

In his own words...

David Collins David Collins is much lauded in the restaurant world as the most-wanted designer for any new opening. His signature look is classic in style, rich in coloured leather, brass fittings, bold shapes and deep curvaceous booths. We take a look at some of his most exciting work to date

food&drink

D

avid Collins has designed, among others, The Wolseley on Piccadilly, Roux at The Landau in Marylebone, celeb favourite J. Sheekey in Soho, the much beloved Bob Bob Ricard, the wonderful Gilbert Scott at the new St Pancras Hotel, Locanda Locatelli and Nobu Mayfair. In terms of bars, he’s leant his magic touch to the Blue Bar at Knightsbridge’s Berkeley Hotel, Artesian Bar at The Langham, Claridge’s Bar and the newly opened Basson at the Corinithia in Westminster, where he also designed their new restaurant Massimo. He’s even taken a foray into nightclubs with Kabaret’s Prophecy in Soho.

connoisseur

On being sustainable...

We tend to take care to use materials which are sustainable.

As an instinct, I have always tended to stay away from animal skins that are endangered, trees that are endangered and anything that seems to me to be at odds with the environment. It is a matter of survival that we look after the environment and that we respect things.

On light...

Lighting is really key in everything I do because I have to light both the physical environment and the people in them in the most flattering and, if you like, romantic way.

On having favourites...

In his own words he talks to Vantage about his inspiration...

On location...

I am influenced by both the physical location and the cultural location of the buildings or the places that I design, whether it is in Hong Kong, South Africa or London. I am very much influenced by cultural trends, both present and past as well as the actual physical geography.

On choosing projects...

I am always surprised when somebody asks me to do a project, usually pleasantly surprised, although sometimes I realise that the project is not for me and I find a way of putting them off!

On working with clients...

I tend to like all of the projects that I am working on, and some of them are challenging. They are often challenging as the people are cranky, or grumpy or do not know what they are doing, but then I tend to look upon that as a challenge and try to make people happy.

I do not think that I have a dream client or a dream project.

There are various stages of any project which are really fantastic and creative and rewarding and various ones that really challenge me! I think, overall, for my dream client and project, the aim is to make all of the projects fun and creative and to overcome the annoying bits.

On going back to his roots...

I think that the projects that I am involved in now are very much architectural projects. I like creating space. The Connaught Bar, The Blue Bar, Massimo, The Delaunay - they have all been empty shells and are all architectural jobs, they are buildings within buildings, and that is what I find interesting. Going back to my training as an architect is rewarding, in that I was scared in the earlier part of my career about building buildings, but now I feel quite empowered by it. n www.davidcollins.com

On the design process...

I am very much involved in, and part of, the design process at a very early stage. I think that I am focused, hard working and passionate about what I do and people always seem surprised that I am involved in such detail with the projects. For me this is the only way to get what I want and deliver what people expect.

On his influences...

My main influences are Mies van der Rohe from the twentieth century and John Soames from the eighteenth century. In between these, there are lots of anonymous architects of buildings that I see whether in Barcelona, Paris or London and I think the common thread is that I am always impressed by scale and proportion and, even if the projects do not have the physical grandeur, I manage to use materials, light and mirrors to give the illusion of this.

On designing for public spaces...

You have to be very practical, as hotels and restaurants have got to withstand a lot of footfall and use, but at the same time it is the general trend to create hotels with a residential feel and restaurants that look like fashion stores, so they have to be beautiful and practical. This is something that is always a struggle.

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Ch r i S T m a S pa rT i E S 201 1 Our famOus shared Christmas parties and pre-Club reCeptiOns at the rOOf Gardens are baCk fOr anOther year! step Out On the sixth flOOr and be transpOrted intO a rOOftOp Winter Garden fOr a party tO remember befOre yOu danCe the niGht aWay in the Club.

Book a table for 10 or more at our Shared Parties and you get all of the following:

Hire a private space and organise a Pre-Club Reception for up to 400 and we include:

• Glass of champagne on arrival • 3-course meal in the marquee • Selected wines, beers and soft drinks during the meal • Live entertainment by The Essentials • Entry to the Club from 10pm to 3am

• Glass of champagne on arrival • Selection of canapés • Selected wines, beers and soft drinks from 7pm until 10pm • Live entertainment by The Essentials • Entry to The Club from 10pm to 3am

from £110 per person

from £89 per person

start st tart plannin t planninG yOur neW year’s eve party

contact us for details!

The Roof Gardens 99 kensington high street, london W8 5sa t: 0207 368 3960 victorial.l@roofgardens.virgin.com www.roofgardensclub.com/christmas

&

out

about

FIND If you’re looking for a fantastic painting to complement your home, look no further than the Affordable Art Fair which continues in Hampstead for the next few days. Until 30 October Hampstead Heath will play host to over 90 exhibitors of sculpture, photography and print. Various workshops and masterclasses are also on offer, giving the whole family the opportunity to create and learn.

Lower Fairground Site, East Heath Road www.affordableartfair.co.uk

DRINK:

SUPPORT: Hampstead Garden Suburb will be the site of a winter fair in aid of charity on 5 November. Home-made cakes, toys and collectibles will be available, with proceeds going to support Combat Stress, the mental health charity for ex-servicemen. The event will run from 11am-2pm and be opened by former MP and BBC correspondent Martin Bell.

Fellowship House, 136a Willifield Way, NW11 6YD

Belvedere Vodka has long been the spirit for fabulous cocktails, owing to its quadruple-distilled, smooth formulation. However, the latest CSR drive from the premium drinks brand reaffirms its status as drink of choice. Belvedere have pledged 50 per cent of all Belvedere Red bottle proceeds to RED, a global charity working to combat Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria in Africa. www.belvederevodka.com

out & about

connoisseur

DISCOVER Exclusive panoramic photographs of private gardens in St John’s Wood are available for viewing until 5 November at the Queen’s Terrace Cafe. The images have been captured by renowned documentary photographer Peter Marshall and reflect a variety of designs, uses and botanical interests. Details of the history of each garden along with excerpts from interviews with the owners will also accompany the display.

7 Queen’s Terrace, NW8 6DX

LISTEN This November sees the launch of The Landmark hotel’s opera season. The glamorous Winter Garden restaurant with its impressive glass roofed atrium will be the setting for performances by professional opera singers presenting

the works of Bizet, Verdi and others.

The segments of opera will punctuate a lavish six course dinner paired with fine wines and champagnes.

22 Marylebone Road, NW1 6JQ www.landmarklondon.co.uk

CELEBRATE: Look forward to a fun family day out and help fund the Primrose Hill Christmas lights with a visit to the seasonal fair on 27 November. Regents Park Road will be totally traffic free for the brilliant event, which will offer locals the opportunity to enjoy hot roast chestnuts, mulled wine, live jazz, arts and crafts. The event runs from 11am to 5pm.

EAT:

SHOP:

West Hampstead is the proud site of a gorgeous new confectioners called Cocoa Bijoux. The vintage style sweets emporium provides the finest truffles, fondus, chocolate-coated fruits and caramels which are made using traditional methods in small batches and all taste-tested!

Broadwell Parade, Broadhurst Gardens NW6 3BQ

In time for the holiday season is a fantastic package now available at The Radisson Edwardian Berkshire, near Marylebone.

Guests at the hotel will be entitled to a personal shopping session with leading consultant Gabrielle Teare at a rate discounted by 25 per cent. Gabrielle is a notable stylist and has worked on Hollywood films including Confessions of a Shopaholic. www.radissonedwardian.com/ berkshire

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listing See below for estate agents in the area

Aston Chase 69 / 71 Park Road NW1 6XU 020 7724 4724 www.astonchase.com

Greenstone 83 Boundary Road NW8 0RG 020 7625 7000 www.greenstone.com

Knight Frank 5-7 Wellington Place NW8 7PB 020 7586 2777 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Parkheath 8a Canfield Gardens NW6 3BS 020 7625 4567 www.parkheath.com

Benham & Reeves 56 Heath Street NW3 1DL 020 7435 9822 www.b-r.co.uk

Hamptons International 99 St John’s Wood Terrace NW8 6PL 020 7722 2131 www.hamptons.co.uk

Knight Frank 79-81 Heath Street NW3 6UG 020 7431 8686 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Parkheath 192 West End Lane NW6 1SG 020 7794 7111 www.parkheath.com

Brian Lack & Co 4-6 Saint Ann’s Terrace NW8 6PJ 020 7586 5929 www.brianlack.co.uk

Hamptons International 21 Heath street NW3 6TR 020 7794 8222 www.hamptons.co.uk

Knight Frank Marylebone 120a Mount Street, W1K 3NN 020 7483 8349 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Property Divas 34a Rosslyn Hill NW3 1NH 020 7431 8000 Share of www.propertydivas.com freehold

Cluttons 53 Charlbert Street NW8 6JN 020 7586 5863 www.cluttons.com

Hanover Residential 112 Boundary Road NW8 0RH 020 7372 4499 www.hanover-residential.co.uk

Marsh & Parsons 35 Maida Vale W9 1TP 020 7368 4458 www.marshandparsons.co.uk

GUIde PrICe £1,450,000 A four double bedroom, tw Rescorp S oHanover l e aGGate e N T Mansionsapproximately 1,700 sq ft ar 11 floors of this attractive perio Park Road, NW1 4SJ condition throughout.

020 3348 8000 Located on one of Ham www.rescorp.co.uk apartment is within 150 me numerous cafes, restaurants

Jonathan Arron 18 Blenheim Terrace NW8 0EB 020 7604 4611 www.jonathanarron.com

Parkheath 208 Haverstock Hill NW3 2AG 020 7431 1234 www.parkheath.com

TK International 20 Heath Street NW3 6TE 020 7794 8700 www.t-k.co.uk

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

HOLLOWAY ROAD, N19

FARON SUTARIA 114 -118 Parkway NW1 7AN 020 7267 7074 www.faronsutaria.co.uk

An impressive period conversion occupying the entire ground floor with own entrance and private garden. Approx. 888 sq ft. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room. £425,000 Share of Freehold 020 7267 7074 camden@faronsutaria.co.uk

For Estate Agent Listings Please contact Fiona Fenwick on: f.fenwick@runwildgroup.co.uk GAISFORD STREET, NW5

Goldschmidt & Howland www.g-h.co.uk

Marcus Parfitt www.marcusparfitt.com

ANSCOMBE & RINGLAND www.anscombes.co.uk

Chesterton Humberts www.chestertonhumberts.com

Greene & Co www.greene.co.uk

Plaza Estates www.plazaestates.co.uk

Anthony Casingena www.anthonycasingena.com

DAY Morris www.day morris.co.uk

Harris Latner www.harrislatner.co.uk

Sandfords www.sandfords.com

Arlington Residential www.arlingtonresidential.co.uk

Druce www.druce.com

Heathgate www.heathgate.com

Savills www.savills.co.uk

Bargets www.bargets.co.uk

Fox Gregory www.foxgregory.co.uk

Ian Green Residential www.iangreenresidential.com

The Estate Co. www.theestatecompany.com

Beauchamp Estates www.beauchamp.com

Foxtons www.foxtons.co.uk

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward www.kfh.co.uk

Vita Properties www.vitaproperties.co.uk

Behr & Butchoff www.behrandbutchoff.com

glentree www.glentree.co.uk

Lurot Brand www.lurotbrand.co.uk

Winkworth www.winkworth.co.uk

£330,000 Leasehold 020 7267 7074 camden@faronsutaria.co.uk

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

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Carter Jonas www.carterjonas.co.uk

Alexander Green Associates www.alexandergreenassociates.com

A 1st floor apartment with twin doors leading out to the cast iron balcony and communal gardens. Approx. 406 sq ft. Bedroom, bathroom, open-plan kitchen/reception room.

Hampst NW3

10/08/2011 12:51

LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area

De Laszlo House, Hampstead www.delaszlohouse.com

RUNWILD M

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If you would like to appear within the property pages of VANTAGE, contact Giles Ellwood, property manager on 020 7987 4320 or g.ellwood@runwildgroup.co.uk

Knight Frank

Pavilion Apartments, St John’s Wood NW8 Breathtaking penthouse apartment

A breathtaking penthouse apartment, benefiting from probably the most exquisite panorama of the London skyline to the south and for cricket lovers a picture perfect view of Lords to the North. This stunning duplex has been designed and built to the highest of standards, incorporating the most desirable materials that have been sourced from around the world. Master bedroom (with en suite bathroom and sauna), 2 further bedrooms (1 en suite), reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, drawing/dining room, 2 guest toilets, wraparound roof gardens on the 9th and 10th floors. State of the art home automation system controlled with ipad 2.

Leasehold 990 years Price on application (305498)

KnightFrank.co.uk/St-Johns-Wood stjohnswood@knightfrank.com 020 7586 2777

Knight Frank

Hanover Terrace, St Johns Wood NW8

A Nash house with mews and garage in Regents Park A magnificent grade I listed residence built in 1822 occupying a prominent position within this superb Nash terrace with views over Regents Park. Principle bedroom suite (with 2 en suite bathrooms and dressing room), 3 further bedrooms (2 with en suite bathrooms), family bathroom, family room, dining room, study, double volume Atrium leading down to kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, boiler room, storage room, cinema room, guest toilet, terrace, garden, mews house, garage. Approximately 544.4sq.m (5,860sq.ft) Leasehold 127 years and 5 months Price on application

(SJW110140)

KnightFrank.co.uk/St-Johns-Wood stjohnswood@knightfrank.com 020 7586 2777

Knight Frank

Platts Lane, Hampstead, NW3

Rare discreet home opposite Hampstead Heath A contemporary low build house set in a discreet position opposite Hampstead Heath.

The house features gated parking and an outdoor pool in the rear west facing garden. Planning permission for a large ‘wing’ extension has been granted. Comprising 5 to 6 Bedrooms, 3 Reception Rooms, 2 Bathrooms, Garden, Swimming Pool and Private Parking.

Approximately 308.9 sq m (3,325 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: £4,750,000

(305558)

KnightFrank.co.uk/hampstead hampstead@knightfrank.com 020 7431 8686

Knight Frank

Hallam Street, Marylebone W1 Magnificent four bedroom penthouse

An exceptional penthouse apartment over two floors located in a beautifully restored and architecturally enhanced Grade II listed building. Master bedroom suite, further bedroom suite, 2 further bedrooms and shower room, open plan reception room/ dining room, kitchen, study, entrance hall, double private terrace, porter, lift. Approximately 314 sq.m approx (3,389sq.ft).

Share of Freehold ÂŁ7,950,000 (MRY100069)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Marylebone marylebone@knightfrank.com 020 7483 8349

Knight Frank

Langham Street, Fitzrovia W1

An exceptional five bedroom Georgian house This magnificent Georgian townhouse has been beautifully renovated and restored to an exceptionally high standard encompassing a modern glass extension and conservatory. Master bedroom suite with bathroom, shower room and dressing room, 4 further bedrooms (1 with ensuite shower room), 2 further shower rooms, 2 guest cloakrooms, 4 reception rooms, conservatory and terrace, gym, sauna, steam room, passenger lift. Approximately 527 sq.m (5,682 sq.ft).

Freehold ÂŁ7,750,000

(MRY110033)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Marylebone marylebone@knightfrank.com 020 7483 8349

GREVILLE ROAD

A beautifully refurbished double fronted, low built early Victorian detached house arranged predominantly over three floors. The house extends to 4,740 square feet (440 square metres) and is set discreetly within its large grounds behind a secure high wall. This wonderful home has been totally restored and interior designed to an exceptional standard throughout and benefits from having a wonderful south west facing garden and off street parking/garaging for two/three cars.

A D I S C R E E T LY S I T U AT E D I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E D P E R I O D G E M S I T U AT E D W I T H I N A FA B U L O U S W A L L E D S O U T H - W E S T FA C I N G G A R D E N

Accommodation and Amenities Drawing Room, Dining Room, Study, Kitchen/Dining/ Garden Room, Master Bedroom with En Suite Bathroom and 2 Dressing Rooms, 4 Further Bedrooms (3 with En Suite Bathrooms), Bedroom 5/Gym with En Suite Shower Room, Utility Room, Attic Storage, 2 Guest Cloakrooms, Family Bathroom, Terrace, Garden, Double Depth Garage (30' Depth) and Off Street Parking.

Freehold

Joint Sole Agents

Guide Price: ÂŁ7M

A superb detached residence (810sq m/8,716sq ft) located on this secure gated road.

This stunning house has been the subject of a major refurbishment programme and provides excellent family accommodation and further benefits from an indoor swimming pool and detached gymnasium.

Accommodation & Amenities Principal Bedroom with ‘His & Her’ Dressing Rooms & En-Suite Bathroom, 5 Further Bedrooms (3 En-Suite Shower Rooms, 1 En-Suite Bathroom), Family Bathroom, Reception Hall, Drawing Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Formal Dining Room, Games/Media Room, Study, Utility Room, 2 Guest Cloakrooms, Underfloor Gas Fired Central Heating, Lutron Electrical System, Plant Room, Cooled & Humidified Wine Cellar for up to 2,500 bottles, Full Home Cinema System, Mosaic & Limestone Pool, Gymnasium, Landscaped Gardens, Integral Garage, Off-Street Parking

Kenwood/Hampstead Heath

COMPTON LODGE COMPTON AVENUE N6

Joint Sole Agents

Aston Chase +44 (0) 20 7724 4724 Savills +44 (0) 20 7472 5000

Canfield Gardens NW6 - £1,450,000 Spacious ground floor apartment with landscaped garden within the South Hampstead Conservation Area South Hampstead Office 020 7625 4567

Belsize Park 020 7431 1234 South Hampstead 020 7625 4567 West Hampstead 020 7794 7111

1725 sq ft internal floor area • 3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms • 23 ft reception opening to 70 ft garden • Premier South Hampstead location •

www.parkheath.com

Parkhill Road NW3 - £2,375,000 Magnificent garden maisonette of over 2250 sq ft set within a semi-detached property, with private parking Belsize Park Office 020 7431 1234

Belsize Park 020 7431 1234 South Hampstead 020 7625 4567 West Hampstead 020 7794 7111

Main reception + 2nd reception • 4/5 double bedrooms • Lawned and paved 84 ft garden • Off street parking •

www.parkheath.com

Belsize Road NW6 - £1,350 pw Beautifully presented white stucco-fronted townhouse with attractive courtyard garden South Hampstead Office 020 7625 4567

Belsize Park 020 7431 1234 South Hampstead 020 7625 4567 West Hampstead 020 7794 7111

Elegant entertaining areas • 18’1 master bedroom + 3 double bedrooms • Wood floors, shuttered sash windows • Good storage, utility area, study space •

www.parkheath.com

Lyndale Avenue NW2 - £1,850 pw Stunning and immaculate 5 bedroom family home with an expansive 130 ft garden and separate play area West Hampstead Office 020 7794 7111

Belsize Park 020 7431 1234 South Hampstead 020 7625 4567 West Hampstead 020 7794 7111

Reception + kitchen opening to garden • Master bedroom + 4 further double bedrooms • Large landscaped garden • Private garage + driveway parking •

www.parkheath.com

LEFT-HAND

Hamptons St. John’s Wood Office Lettings. 020 7722 2131 stjohnswoodlettings@hamptons-int.com

Pavilions, St John’s Wood Road, NW8 £1,200.00 per week A fabulous two bedroom 8th floor apartment with direct views into Lords Cricket Ground.

London House, Avenue Road, NW8 £2,500.00 per week A newly refurbished four bedroom fifth floor apartment.

Best for Property Management 2011

Hamptons International has been crowned Gold Winner in Best for Property with The Sunday Times and The Times, recognising Hamptons’ commitment to exceptional customer service. Call us to find out more about how our Property Management Services can help us meet your property requirements

RIGHT-HAND

Hamptons St. John’s Wood Office Lettings. 020 7722 2131 stjohnswoodlettings@hamptons-int.com

Hanover House, St John’s Wood High Street, NW8 £2,500.00 per week A spacious four bedroom, fourth floor family apartment set in an imposing mansion block.

Stockleigh Hall, Prince Albert Road, NW8 £1,250.00 per week

This beautifully presented three bedroom apartment, located opposite Regents Park.

Here. There. Everywhere. We were the first UK estate agency to launch an app for iPad, and an app for iPhone, and our website has hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. Wether you want to buy, sell, let or rent, it couldn’t be easier.

HOT PROPERTY:

MOdern Style

This bright and spacious three bedroom, two bathroom apartment situated on the third floor within this popular stucco fronted mansion block offers a wonderful opportunity for families.

The property comprises a large reception room, separate kitchen with eating area, master bedroom with en-suite, two further bedrooms, family bathroom and

balcony. The apartment has just undergone a complete refurbishment to the highest of standards and would make a fantastic venue for entertaining, as well as a beautiful family home.

Belgrave Gardens is located off the famous Abbey Road, close to all local amenities which make St John’s Wood such a popular and desirable area in which to live.

homes & property

Belgrave Mansions, NW8 ÂŁ1.25M Leasehold Greenstone www.greenstone.com

020 7625 1000 133

Rosecroft Avenue NW3 This handsome five/six bedroom property has generous accommodation over three floors plus an integral garage with off street parking.

The house offers a huge amount of character with many period features including cornicing, fireplaces and period marble chequer-board tiles to the entrance lobby as well as a feature wrought iron balustrade on the upper staircase.

One of a pair of distinctive double fronted Edwardian semidetached houses set up above the road with a secluded rear garden.

Joint Sole Agents

The entire garage area could be excavated to provide further entertainment/leisure/staff space subject to the usual consents.

Freehold

267521_TK_Vantage_NOV11.indd 1

Guide Price ÂŁ4,750,000

11/10/2011 10:20

2675

Hampstead NW3 This exceptionally grand home provides a large entrance hallway, drawing room, sitting room, dining room, conservatory and a 32 ft Christians kitchen/breakfast room. The house also offers a beautifully manicured and secluded 70 ft rear garden and off street parking.

A substantial Edwardian six bedroom house built circa 1905, offering almost 6,000 sq ft of accommodation over three floors.

Joint Sole Agents

Located within close proximity to Hampstead Village and the open expanses of Hampstead Heath, with the further amenities of the City & West End easily accessible.

Freehold

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Guide Price ÂŁ6,500,000

11/10/2011 10:20

St Johns Wood Office: 020 7586 5929

Hanover House, St John’sWood High Street, St John’s Wood, London, NW8

£2,800,000 Leasehold – Share of freehold

Stunning five bedroom apartment set within a prestigious mansion block opposite Regents Park. The apartment comprises five bedrooms, three bathrooms ( two en-suite) with two large receptions and a fully fitted eat-in kitchen.

Elstree T: 0208 387 1546

Knightsbridge T: 0207 225 0878

St Johns Wood Office: 020 7586 5929

North Gate, Prince Albert Road, St John’s Wood, London, NW8

£1,350,000 Leasehold

An impressive two double bedroom apartment set on the second floor of this highly regarded red brick mansion block.

Boasting high ceilings and sash windows this bright and airy apartment comprises a spacious reception room with feature fire place, modern fully fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms, tiled bathroom and guest W/C. Overlooking St John’s Wood Church Gardens this stunning property is conveniently located for the amenities of St John’s Wood High Street and Underground (Jubilee Line).

www.brianlack.co.uk St Johns Wood T: 020 7586 5929

Belgrade T: 381 11301 1161

St Johns Wood Office: 020 7586 5929

Rodney Court, Maida Vale, London, W9

ÂŁ1,700,000 Leasehold

An interior designed three double bedroom, two bathroom apartment set on the 4th floor of this impressive purpose built block.

Comprising a double reception room with balcony, luxury fitted kitchen, three double bedrooms (2 en-suite) and gust W/C this stunning flat offers in excess of 1500 sq ft of bright and well balanced accommodation. Rodney Court benefits from a 24 hour porter and is conveniently located for Clifton Road and the transport links of both Maida Vale and St John’s Wood.

Elstree T: 0208 387 1546

Knightsbridge T: 0207 225 0878

St Johns Wood Office: 020 7586 5929

Imperial Court, St John’s Wood, London, NW8

P.O.A Leasehold

A recently refurbished four bedroom, four bathroom apartment set on the second floor of a sought after portered building overlooking Regents Park. The property affords over 2,300sq ft of bright and airy accommodation and comprises a spacious reception room with doors leading onto a large terrace with views of the park, four double bedrooms each with its own en-suite bathroom, separate fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room and guest W/C. The property has recently been refurbished to a high standard. Imperial Court is located within easy reach of the Cosmopolitan St John’s Wood High Street and Underground Station (Jubilee Line) and benefits from underground parking and residents gym.

www.brianlack.co.uk St Johns Wood T: 020 7586 5929

Belgrade T: 381 11301 1161

2011-10-12 14:51:11

94.126.43.186

ST JOHN'S WOOD

Queens Grove NW8 A fantastic family home providing well planned accommodation including five bedrooms, a double reception room and a kitchen with a dining area. Queens Grove is conveniently located for the amenities of Regent’s Park and St John’s Wood High Street and underground station (Jubilee line). This Grade II listed property is arranged over four floors and is located within the St John’s Wood Conservation area reception room | main bedroom (en suite) | 4 further bedrooms | 2 further bathrooms | kitchen with open-plan dining area | garden

Guide price £2,995,000 freehold

cluttons.com

020 7586 5863

stjohnswood@cluttons.com

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2011-10-12 14:53:18

94.126.43.186

ST JOHN'S WOOD

Bristol Gardens W2 A superb ground and lower ground floor conversion located in a quiet street in Little Venice. This well proportioned property has two double bedrooms, a good sized open-plan kitchen and living area, as well as a beautiful garden. Bristol Gardens is conveniently located for the amenities of Little Venice and Warwick Avenue underground station (Bakerloo line) reception room with open-plan kitchen | 2 bedrooms | bathroom | garden

Guide price ÂŁ649,950 share of freehold

cluttons.com

020 7586 5863

stjohnswood@cluttons.com

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Highgate 020 8348 2341

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Dartmouth Park

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020 7284 0101

West Hampstead 020 7644 9300

Hampstead Village NW3

B

A Victorian bay-fronted family house presented in excellent decorative order. Ideally positioned between the High Street and the heath, with the benefit of a south facing patio and roof terrace.

A s h e

5 Bedrooms * 4 Bathrooms (2 En Suite) * Double Reception Room * Further Reception Room * Kitchen * Guest Cloakroom * South Facing Roof Terrace * South Facing Patio Garden * Residents Parking Zone.

5 W C U O

Guide ÂŁ2,750,000

G

Sole Agent

Hampstead | 020 7435 9822 | sales@b-r.co.uk

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Hampstead

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020 7435 9822

Highgate

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020 8348 2341

Belsize Park NW3 A part-stucco Victorian family home in excess of 3000 sq ft with superb proportions, well positioned within a highly sought after road with a mature rear garden in excess of 100ft and the advantage of off street parking.

5/7 Bedrooms * 2 Bathrooms (1 En Suite) * 2 Separate WCs * 3 Reception Rooms * Kitchen/Dining Room * Consulting Rooms (Inc. Waiting Area & Cloakroom) * Utility Room * Balcony * 106ft 8in Rear Garden * Off Street Parking

Guide ÂŁ3,750,000

Sole Agent

Hampstead | 020 7435 9822 | sales@b-r.co.uk www.b-r.co.uk

Dartmouth Park 020 7284 0101

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West Hampstead 020 7644 9300

“Knowledge raises one man above another.�

Know-how raises the value of your property.

It’s a great quote.* And here’s another from the judges who voted us UK Estate Agency of the Year 2010: “They simply astonish at every turn with their excellent business focus and attention to detail.”

The judges commented on our staying power through 150 years of economic ups and downs, our leadership position, transparency and professionalism.

They also remarked on the fact that we are a great place to work and to do business with because we only employ the very best people.

We couldn’t have said it better. * Joseph Addison (1672 – 1719) Essayist, poet, playwright & politician

Local know-how. Better results. sales@marshandparsons.co.uk lettings@marshandparsons.co.uk marshandparsons.co.uk

Local know-how. Better results.

Our Offices:

Brook Green

Hammersmith

Mayfair

Balham

Chelsea

Holland Park

North Kensington

Barnes

Clapham

Kensington

Notting Hill

Battersea

Fulham

Little Venice

Pimlico

The judges also mentioned:

“An early adopter of social media tools, Marsh & Parsons web presence is impressive...

The team harness the power of the internet to position themselves as experts through commentary and blogging.”

Every month we have over 120,000 hits on our website.

Of those, 50,000 are unique visitors.

100% of properties on our books are advertised on all the major property websites.*

PrimeLocation, Rightmove, FindaProperty, Zoopla, Homes24, Homes & Property and Email4Property to name a few. *Unless our clients prefer not to be listed.

Our 4,400 Twitter followers receive up-to-the-minute property alerts and daily market commentary. @marshandparsons recently tweeted:

We’re registering 16.7 buyers per available property compared to 11.6 this time last year. Great for sellers, not so great for buyers.

Randolph Road W9 £1,999,950 This unique apartment boasts two fabulous reception rooms, a separate kitchen, a guest cloakroom, a master bedroom with en suite shower room and French doors leading out to the garden, two further bedrooms (one with doors leading out to a small patio area), a family bathroom and a charming private garden. Share of Freehold. Sole Agents.

LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 sales.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons

Join us on Facebook: facebook/marshandparsons.co.uk

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

SALES

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

Lanark Road W9 £1,549,950 This beautiful, unique maisonette apartment offers a blend of contemporary and period style. The accommodation boasts a stunning double reception room with high ceilings, oor to ceiling sash windows and a balcony overlooking the charming walled garden, a modern and well equipped separate kitchen, a master bedroom with en suite shower room, a further double bedroom leading out to the garden, a third bedroom/study, a family bathroom and utility area. Sole Agents.

LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 sales.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

Local know-how. Better results.

Our Offices:

Brook Green

Hammersmith

Mayfair

Balham

Chelsea

Holland Park

North Kensington

Barnes

Clapham

Kensington

Notting Hill

Battersea

Fulham

Little Venice

Pimlico

St Marys Mansions W2 £895 per week This stunning apartment, positioned to the rear of an impressive mansion block in Little Venice, is located just a short walk from Warwick Avenue. The spacious first floor apartment comprises a fully fitted kitchen, a large double reception room, two double bedrooms (one with an en suite bathroom), a third single bedroom and a family bathroom.

LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 lets.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/marshandparsons

Join us on Facebook: facebook/marshandparsons.co.uk

Visit our YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/marshandparsons

We’ve just been awarded:

Best Medium Lettings Agency in London 2011.

The judges said:

“The International Desk helps clients in 18 different languages and assists tenants with administrative necessities before they secure an address.”

44%

of our business is lettings.

Unlike other agents, we consider lettings to be just as important as sales.

98%

of our landlords in Central London come back to us when they need to re-let their property.

Elgin Avenue W9 £425 per week This fabulous apartment is situated within a period building in the heart of Maida Vale. The accommodation comprises a spacious open plan reception room with a fully fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms and a modern bathroom. Located on Elgin Avenue, close to Warwick Avenue in Little Venice and a short walk from Paddington.

LITTLE VENICE: 020 7993 3050 lets.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk

A happy landlord told us:

“I just wanted to say that we appreciated the effort and the professionalism with which you and your team worked to find a tenant for our flat. You stood in marked contrast to some of your competitors.”

LETTINGS

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

m

Fellows Road | Swiss Cottage | NW3 Set on the first floor of this well maintained period building, a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment of 894 sq ft/83 sq m, located on this popular tree lined road. The apartment benefits from bright and spacious rooms with high ceilings, a 22ft reception room and a 15ft south facing master bedroom suite with far reaching views.

The flat is ideally located within easy reach to Primrose Hill, England’s Lane and Swiss Cottage Underground Station (Jubilee Line).

Price: £699,950 | Sole Agent | Leasehold Jonathan Arron Residential 18 Blenheim Terrace, St John’s Wood, London, NW8 0EB

Denning Close | St John’s Wood | NW8 A beautifully refurbished five bedroom, five bathroom detached house of approximately 3700 sq ft/ 344 sq m, arranged over two floors only, providing an ideal family home with superb entertaining space. The property features a 35’ reception room with wood flooring, a conservatory, utility room, a 38ft roof terrace, a private walled garden, off street parking and is located in a private road, ideally positioned for the American School London and St John’s Wood (Jubilee Line).

Price: £3500 Per Week | Principal Agent | Unfurnished T: 020 7604 4611 W: jonathanarron.com

CHESTERFIELD HILL, MAYFAIR, W1 A handsome Georgian freehold town house of approximately 3,725 sq.ft.(346 sqm) with classic period proportions and features throughout. Quietly nestled in one of Mayfair’s most exclusive and sought after residential neighbourhoods, the house benefits from flexible accommodation and excellent natural light. Chesterfield Hill lies to the west of Berkeley Square, in close proximity to the world renowned restaurants, boutiques and galleries of Mount Street and Bond Street.

23 BERKELEY SQUARE, MAYFAIR, LONDON W1J 6HE

020 7665 6633

£6,750,000 Freehold Sole Agent

www.mercerpasqua.co.uk

Wedderburn Road NW3 ÂŁ1,395,000. Sole agent A fabulous three bathroom lateral apartment comprising approximately 1451 sq ft (135 sq m) situated on the 2nd floor of a double fronted red brick period conversion with a proposal in place for direct lift access into the apartment.

The property benefits from three balconies and offers well proportioned and flexible living space throughout, as well as being located on this desirable tree lined road in the heart of Hampstead.

Property Divas Limited, 34a Rosslyn Hill, Hampstead, NW3 1NH 020 7431 8000 info@propertydivas.com www.propertydivas.com

faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

PARKHILL ROAD, NW3 A ground floor period apartment with direct access to a shared garden. Approx. 1,132 sq ft.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, dining area, parking. ÂŁ799,995 Leasehold 020 7267 7074 camden@faronsutaria.co.uk

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

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faronsutaria.co.uk

SALES & LETTINGS

YERBURY ROAD, N19 A handsome Edwardian semi-detached family house with potential for extension (subject to planning permission).

Approx. 2,354 sq ft. 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, rear garden. ÂŁ1,350,000 Freehold 020 7267 7074 camden@faronsutaria.co.uk

OUR SERVICE WILL MOVE YOU

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The spirit of St John’s Wood

Instructing Rescorp Residential to sell your property will ensure you the best possible marketing, the best price and, more importantly, the right buyer.

Make the right move and instruct Rescorp Residential today!

We look forward to hearing from you.

Vic Chhabria Director

11 Hanover Gate Mansions, Park Road, London, NW1 4SJ

www.rescorp.co.uk

Avenue Close London, NW8 Avenue Close is one of the most desirable addresses in St Johns Wood. As a development, it is very well managed, the porters are friendly, it has parking for residents and visitors and above all, is set in beautifully landscaped surrounding. It is with pride that Rescorp Residential have sold 3 flats within the development this year.

T: 0203 348 8000 | F: 0203 348 8800 | E: info@rescorp.co.uk

Sales

Maida Vale, London W9 A beautiful two bedroom, two bathroom garden apartment situated on the ground floor of a period conversion totalling circa 779 sq ft/72 sq m. The apartment is set at the rear of the main house and features a spacious reception room with double doors leading directly onto a delightful private garden, master bedroom with bathroom en-suite, 2nd bedroom, family bathroom and tastefully decorated throughout. The apartment has allocated off street parking.

ÂŁ765,000 Leasehold

83 Boundary Road, St John’s Wood, London NW8 0RG

T 020 7625 7000 W www.greenstone.com

Sales

Belsize Park, London NW3 A beautifully presented two bedroom, two bathroom duplex apartment (circa 1750 sq ft) formally arranged as a four bedroom. Situated on the second and third floors within this well maintained period conversion the apartment comprises of a large double reception room, separate fully fitted eat in kitchen, master bedroom with private balcony and an en-suite bathroom, second bedroom, family bathroom. The apartment also boasts ample storage, high ceilings and wooden floors throughout

ÂŁ1,650,000 SOF

St John’s Wood Court, St John’s Wood, NW8 A contemporary style three bedroom apartment (1687 sq ft / 157 sq m) situated on the 4th floor of this popular mansion block. Benefits include wooden flooring and high quality fittings and porterage. St John’s Wood Court is located opposite London’s famous Lords Cricket Ground, being well located for St John’s Wood High Street and underground station (Jubilee Line). This property is available on a furnished basis.

Sole Agent

£1,500 per week

Rosecroft Avenue, Hampstead, NW3 An exceptional four/five bedroom upper maisonette (2,728 sq ft / 253 sq m) arranged on the first and second floors of this detached period house. The apartment has been meticulously refurbished throughout and features a stunning reception room with solid wood flooring, beautifully appointed kitchen/ breakfast room and a terrace off the master bedroom. Additional features include its own private entrance, a 50ft private rear garden and off street parking for two cars. Rosecroft Avenue is a tree lined residential turning in the desirable ‘Crofts’ area of Hampstead.

Principal Agent

Share of Freehold

£2,750,000

Pavilion Apartments, St John’s Wood, NW8 A beautifully appointed four/five bedroom apartment (2,756 sq ft / 256 sq m) situated on the third floor of this prestigious modern block in St Johns Wood opposite Lords Cricket Ground. The property features an impressive double reception room leading to a 30ft terrace with views over the communal garden.

Additional benefits include air conditioning, 24 hour porterage, passenger lift and underground parking for two cars.

Joint Sole Agent

Leasehold

ÂŁ4,250,000

Redington ROAD, Hampstead, NW3 An elegant double fronted detached family home (4,639 sq ft / 430 sq m), situated in one of Hampstead’s most prestigious tree lined roads. The house is arranged over three floors and offers a large master bedroom suite with dressing room and bathroom, five further bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large kitchen/breakfast room leading onto a mature landscaped rear garden, parking for several cars and a lock up garage. Redington Road is located south of Hampstead Heath with the shops and transport facilities of Hampstead nearby.

Sole Agent

Freehold

ÂŁ7,950,000