BATTERSEA & CLAPHAM OCTOBER 2014

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BATTERSEA & CLAPHAM OCTOBER 2014 / £3.95

WALL TO WALL TIM GOSLING TALKS TRADITION & HIS EYE FOR DESIGN

WRAP IT UP

ITALIAN JOB

MARIO TRIMARCHI: MORE THAN A DESIGNER

ALAN DAVIES

THE COMEDY GENIUS ON STAND-UP & STEPHEN FRY

THICK KNITS & CLASSIC CUTS

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contents

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Oct obe r 2014

36

64 10 ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top picks this month

14 17 18

ART & CULTURE WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for October

BOOK WORM

Sophie Kinsella talks books in the wake of the Wimbledon Book Festival

V IS FOR VICTORY

Alan Davies on comedy, Stephen Fry and his new stand-up tour

ST YLE 26 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL Find out about the newest trends

28 FEELING FOXY

Drape yourself with faux fur this October

36 STYLE COUNCIL

Eileen Fisher releases her new take on the ‘Icons’ collection

BEAUTY 42 BEAUTY NOTES

Our edit of the best beauty product launches, news and trends

49 NAILED IT

We discover Southwest London’s best salons for a manicure

FOOD & DRINK 54 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL A Halloween inspired cocktail, Anna G and raspberry macarons

58 EAT THE SEASONS

Tasty preserve recipes taken from Thane Prince’s new book, Perfect Preserves

TRAVEL 64 PURE SHORES

Pure travel heaven in the Maldives

INTERIORS 74 INSPIRATIONS Cover Image MaxMara

Geometric shapes, stylish seats and Decorex festival

7 B&C_Oct_Contents.indd 7

54 80 TRIMARCHI'S WAY

Italian architect, Mario Trimarchi on art, Alessi and designjunction

84 INSIDE TRACK

Southwest London's best interior stores

88 EYE FOR DESIGN

We catch up with designer, Tim Gosling

PROPERT Y 115 PROPERTY NEWS News and views on the area

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:14

BE INSPIRED From French Country House chic to elegant classical designs, our range of beautiful home furnishings and accessories combines contemporary style with timeless elegance. Our established interiors advice service will help to bring your vision to life.

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EDITOR’S

letter

F

or our October edition, we take on the innovative world of interiors.

With London’s prestigious designjunction around the corner we catch up with architect and creative luminary Mario Trimarchi, the man behind the Italian kitchenware brand Alessi’s new project and its pop-up café at the fair.

We’ve uncovered the best interior design shops in Southwest London to help you kit out your home in time for the indoor season, and also found geometric adornments and stylish homewares on our Interior Inspirations spread.

Clapham-based designer Tim Gosling talks to us about traditional design and judging the recent Clapham Art Prize.

We have all the up-to-date fashion, food and culture news for you, including a tasty seasonal dinner party menu from London's chef du jour, Jason Atherton.

And finally… he may not be an interiors guru, but he’s certainly a comic one. The immensely entertaining Alan Davies chats to me this month about Stephen Fry, making his way in the entertainment industry and his new stand-up tour, Little Victories, which is heading to New Wimbledon Theatre this month.

I very much hope you enjoy my first issue as editor as much as I have enjoyed putting it together.

See you next month. ◆

Romy van den Broeke Editor

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:01

GOLDEN GIRL

Womenswear brand Biba introduces its sumptuous new Autumn Winter collection to House of Fraser stores. Bridging the gap between summer and autumn, we particularly love this golden baroque-style midi dress. houseoff raser.co.uk

10 Things We

ABSOLUTELY

GO FOR GOLD

Part of Alex Monroe's new Haberdashery collection, this adorable locket contains a little needle and thread and is the closest to sewing we're willing to get.

POR; alexmonroe.com

BENTLEY HANDBAGS

Bentley, have launched their inaugural line of handbags. Each sleek bag has the classic Bentley symbol embossed on the front and they come in a selection of stylish colourways and styles. From ÂŁ4,800; bentleyhandbagcollection.com

SCENT OF A WOMAN

New from Tom Ford, Velvet Orchid is the must-have winter scent for women.

A revised version of the original Black Orchid fragrance, Velvet Orchid contains notes such as honey, rum and oriental flora. From ÂŁ72; tomford.com

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ABSOLUTELY / LOVES DEVINE INTERVENTION

WHISKEY BUSINESS Each limited edition bottle of Ryder Cup Johnnie Walker Blue Label is individually numbered and is one of only 1,750 made. The perfect gift for the whiskey fanatic in your life – yes, we all have one. £225; whiskyshop.com

The mystic arts of fortune-telling and divination are the starting point for Tatty Devine’s stylish new collection – we love the beautiful campaign pictures too. tattydevine.com

CLUB TROPICANA

Who can resist a decorative pineapple?

Merchant Archive used to source vintage ones but have now started making their own, in copper, brass and zinc. From £145; merchantarchive.com

WALL STREET

Proclaim your love for London with a personalised wallpaper map from LoveMapsOn. With access to the largest collection of Victorian and present-day maps, they can pinpoint your favourite part of town. In this case South west London. Prices from £145, lovemapson.com

TICK TOCK

Maison Jaquet Droz and Harrods have collaborated to produce this exquisite limited edition watch whose painted enamel face depicts the famous storefront itself. POA; jaquet-droz.com

GOLDEN YEARS

The latest Kirsten Goss collection draws on influences of tribal adornment, the natural versus the supernatural, and magical forces.

We love this dramatic bangle. £225; kirstengoss.com

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 14:36

*

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*

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V IS FOR VICTORY

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> WHAT'S ON

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OCTOBER 2014

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OUT OF TOWN

HARRY POTTER STUDIO TOUR 17 O cto b er ~ 3 No v em b er Warn e r Bro th e rs S t u di o otter fans of all ages have been enjoying visits to the Warner P Brother’s Studio where the hit movie franchise was filmed since it was made a permanent public attraction in 2012. This October half term the studios will be hosting a two week Dark Arts special, where visitors will discover how the Dark Arts were brought to life on the screen and you’ll even have the chance to duel with a Death Eater. Spooky stuff indeed… ©EGON SCHIELE

◆ Warner Brothers Studio, Leavesden, WD25 3GS; wbstudiotour.co.uk

Egon Schiele The Radical Nude F rom 23 October Courtauld G aller y

Egon Schiele (1890 - 1918) was one of the most important artists of the early 20th century and a central figure of Austrian Expressionism. This exhibition brings together an outstanding group of the artist’s nudes to chart his ground-breaking approach during his short but urgent career and showcases Schiele’s technical virtuosity and highly original vision.

Somerset House, Strand, WC2R; courtauld.ac.uk

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FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL

25 O ct o b e r B atte r se a Ar ts C e ntre or one day a month workshops, brunches and creative hang-outs F will spill into spaces across the Battersea Arts Centre, including The Bee’s Knees, an indoor garden play space for 0-5s.

This is part of the Battersea insitution's Family Theatre program and a perfcect morning out for parent and child alike. ◆ Lavender Hill, SW11; bac.org.uk

14 05/09/2014 11:32

ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS CONFLICT, TIME, PHOTOGRAPHY Fro m No v em b er 26 Tate Mo de rn imed specifically to coincide with the T centenary of the First World War, this exhibition concerns the relationship between photography and sites of conflict over time. It will include various perspectives of sites depicted over different passages of time: from works made a few moments or one day after an event, to those made one year later or 10, 20, 30 and 100 years later. ◆ Bankside, SE1; tate.org.uk

BOOK PICKS S O P H I E K I N S E L L A’S To p T h ree Re ads Fo r 2 014

THE GOLDFINCH Wi n dmil l

By Donna Tartt

The Pulitzer Prize-winning third novel from Donna Tartt tells the story of a boy who loses his mother but gains a painting. Kinsela describes it as “gripping ,atmospheric and smart.”

◆

AFFORDABLE ART FAIR

must read

23~26 O c tob er B a ttersea Evol u tion ith works by thousands of artists under one W roof, art lovers, art connoisseurs, and art novices are welcomed to discover a diverse collection of affordable art. Our 117 participating galleries came from all over the UK and abroad, bringing their choicest selections for you to browse, buy, and enjoy. ◆ Battersea Evolution, Battersea Park, SW111; affordableartfair.com

THE CIRCLE Wi n dmil l

By David Eggers

Delves into the world of tech worker Mae Holland who joins an internet company but exposes a world that makes her own fall apart. Kinsella describes it as “so true and chilling about the invasion of social media” and is her must-read for 2014.

must see

◆

DESIGN JUNCTION

18 ~2 1 S eptem b er T h e S o rti n g O ff i c e et inspired at this year's desingjunction event, an G expo showcasing the very best in furniture, lighting and product design from around the world. Many brilliant brands will be in attendance, among them G Plan, whose retro inspirations and sleek craftsmenship make them well worth a visit at the event. ◆ 21-31 New Oxford Street, WC1A; thedesignjunction.co.uk

15 B&C_Oct_Whats_On_use.indd 15

THE THIRD WIFE Wi n dmil l

By Li sa Jewell

Exposing the cracks in a seemingly perfect life, The Third Wife shows the turmoil that can churn beneath the surafce. Kinsella highly recommends this “wonderful book by Jewell, all about family, which is an endlessly fascinating subject”.

OCTOBER 2014

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ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE INTERVIEW

Book Worm Sophie Kinsella talks Wimbledon, funny women and dream dinner party guests ahead of this year’s Bookfest words Cara CuMMings

W

hat do Cote, the Lighthouse Cafe and Le Pain Quotidien have in common?

They’re all caffeinestocked spots where Wimbledon’s most unassuming ubercelebrity can be found quietly concocting her next big hit. You might not recognise Madeleine Wickham immediately, despite her seven successful novels - but realise you’re ordering a cappuccino behind Sophie Kinsella, and you’ve got yourself a literary A-list anecdote.

For Wickham is royalty in the world of writing. The former financial journalist was already a best-selling author when she adopted the Kinsella pseudonym - and struck gold with her Shopaholic series.

Fourteen years, 11 runaway hits and a Hollywood adaptation later, Kinsella has sold more than 6m books and is one of Britain’s richest women.

Charmingly humble still, she has not forgotten her roots. Kinsella has lived in Wimbledon for 10 years, but always called South West London home. “I’ve known the area all my life,” she explains. “When I was

DREAM DINNER PARTY? jane austen, OF COURSE younger we lived on Putney Hill. I love that there are still stables in the Village and everyone is friendly.”

So central is Wimbledon to Kinsella’s life that it’s slipped into the pages of her novels, too. “If you’ve read my Shopaholic books you’ll know that LK Bennett makes an appearance occasionally!”

It takes Kinsella 9 months to plan and write a novel - “I can’t relax unless I’ve written my quota for the day” - and she still aims to stretch her horizons as an author which each new book. “The more I write, the more I feel able to push the boundaries,” she says. “I’d love to write a murder mystery - maybe one day?”

17 Wim_Oct_Sophie_Kinsella.indd 17

For now, though, she’s sticking to the formula beloved by her millions of fans with another Shopaholic installment. Shopaholic to the Stars, released this autumn, takes hapless, big-pending heroine Becky Bloomwood to LA. But just how much of Kinsella herself makes it into her novels?

“I think there is a little of me in each heroine I write – different facets in each one,” she explains.

Humour’s been central to Kinsella’s success – and she doesn’t mince her words when it comes to the debate over women and comedy. “‘Women aren’t funny’? That’s nonsense. What about French and Saunders, Dorothy Parker, Tina Fey? For starters?”

So too does she brush off those who dismiss her breezy, bubbly style as “chick-lit”.

“If the term is helpful for someone to find my books, then I’m happy,” Kinsella says.

“I interpret it as meaning ‘contemporary, intelligent writing featuring women’s concerns’… there’s nothing wrong with that!

Both debates could feature at a ‘Glitterary Lunch’ Kinsella will host with friend and fellow Wimbledon-based best seller Penny Vincenzi at Wimbledon Bookfest, which ignites on the Common next month.

Headliners including Ian McEwan, Clare Balding and Olivier Award winning actress Juliet Stevenson.

Kinsella and Vincenzi will take over an intimate William Morris-themed marquee on 10th October. “Penny is a dear friend,” says Kinsella, “I’m looking forward to a fun chat and discussion about books and life.”

Kinsella’s dream dinner party could prove a little harder to organise, though. “Jane Austen, of course,” she says of her fantasy guestlist. “Edith Wharton and Dorothy Parker too. Now a dinner party with those three, that would be amazing.” u Glitterary Lunch with Penny Vincenzi and Sophie Kinsella, Friday 10th October, 12.45pm, £20.

For information and tickets, visit www.wimbledonbookfest.org

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:36

profile

V FOR VICTORY Alan Davies is in town for his new stand-up show, ‘Little Victories,’ and talks Jonathan Creek, Stephen Fry and the rules of comedy W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

T

here is a familiarity to Alan Davies' voice, similar to that of David Attenborough’s or Jon Snow’s. It’s a voice I, like many others, have indirectly grown up with. For many years, Davies' face was a face thousands of Brits tuned in to watch every week when he played the role of Jonathan Creek in the eponymously titled show. He has been a regular on the box since his career properly launched in 1997 following the first series of Jonathan Creek and has popped up on chat shows and TV series, but most famously as a permanent panellist on BBC quiz show, QI. Davies has, in essence, become a household name: a venerable comedian whose approachable manner, modesty and sharp wit have kept him at the top of his game. But it wasn’t such an easy ride.

Davies recalls his lousy ex-agent booking him for nothing but “panto and ads” until he finally decided enough was enough, found a new agent who secured him the Jonathan Creek gig. ‘It was a total

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i don’t want to park up in the 02 and make people schlep in on the train game changer,’ says Davies. ‘Jonathan Creek is the only job I’ve ever got from an audition, but I got it. I got it because they wanted somebody to adapt and if you want that comedy actors are the way to go.’

Davies believes, full heartedly, that good actors have to be able to be funny: ‘if you can’t do comedy you can’t act, in my mind’ he says. It makes sense. Comedians are able to see things differently, in a more honest way, perhaps, which is why to Davies ‘comedy is raw’. He references the comedy TV series Mrs Brown’s Boys, which features Brendan O’Carroll as the lead female character, Agnes Brown: ‘Brendan O’Carroll is hilarious in it [Mrs Brown’s Boys]’ he says, ‘it is a proper comic performance, the kind that makes

you laugh out loud. No one can deny it’s funny, it’s honest and much funnier than many other comedy shows.’

Other than O’Carroll, who else does Davies respect as a comedian, I ask?

Hesitation from Davies suggests too many to list, but he offers me the classics such as Ronny Barker in Porridge, all the Dad’s Army characters and Morecambe and Wise. “Later, when I got on the circuit as a comedian I became a really big fan of John Belushi,” he says. What about actors he admires? He lists of people he has worked with including Murray Melvin, Rik Mayall and Frances Matthews when they starred in a 1998 Jonathan Creek episode called Black Canary. ‘It was great fun. Not only was it the best episode we’ve ever made it was also the most fun we ever had’ he muses. ‘Oh and Jessica Hynes. She is one of the best actresses and put on one of the best acting performances I have ever watched [for Jonathan Creek]’ he says. ‘I think she was nominated for a BAFTA that year, which to this day I wish she had won.’

Surely Davies is forgetting someone, I think to myself. With no clear move to

18 09/09/2014 10:46

ARTS & CULTURE / FEATURE

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 10:58

k i t chens | bedro o m s | w in e ro o m s | lib ra r i es

B e s po ke k i tchens and int eriors 0208 397 1111 | brayerdesign.co.uk

BRAYER DESIGNS.V5.indd 1

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ARTS & CULTURE / FEATURE discuss his time on QI, I take matters into my own hands. ‘So, are you friends with Stephen Fry?’ I blurt. Davies laughs, as if he’d been expecting this question, ‘very much so.’ Actor, author, activist, comedian and presenter, Stephen Fry is renowned. If Davies is a household name, Fry is royalty. Davies explains that ‘we rarely see each other when we are not filming QI, but there is a fair amount of texting or emailing that goes on.’ He adds ‘but not so much that I know where he is!’ chuckles Davies in a half disappointed half jovial kind of way.

Another series of QI is being released next year, something Davies is greatly looking forward to. He’s also got another show airing on Dave soon and some covert plan is currently going through with Sky as we speak. But now, this month, Davies is in full stand-up swing.

IF YOU can’t

do comedy you

CAN’T ACT

Following the success of his 2012 tour, Life is Pain, Davies is returning to the comedy circuit with his newest set, Little Victories. I ask him if he’s feeling any pressure because of the success of Life is Pain, ‘Not really. I did a tour of Australia in March and the UK in April, I also went to Edinburgh Festival and some obscure website gave me a 5-star review. So I feel pretty confident that the material works.’

How does he know when an idea will work though? ‘You get a bit of an instinct for it,’ he says, ‘it’s all about being as funny as you can.’ He makes it sounds so easy, but surely there are ‘rules’ to stand-up? ‘Well, it’s very frowned upon to steal other people’s material, but that’s an unwritten rule’ he declares. ‘Some people go quite near the knuckle, you know, deliberately anti-PC’ he says, ‘I’m not one to censor but I just think you had better be funny if you’re going to go there.’

So how has Davies comedy style developed over the years? ‘When you’re young it’s just an ego thing. Whereas now, I’ve lived a bit of a life, I am actually quite good at it, I have a platform to speak from and actually have something to say.’

Davies’ fans cross all ages and sexes, so with age he has been able to draw on personal experiences to resonate with them. Little Victories does just that; ‘I’ve pieced together notes and created an inevitably autobiographical show. It’s all

to do with being a father, a son, a husband and even a school boy.’

The show is travelling around London rather than setting up camp in one theatre for the week. ‘I can’t see myself ever playing an arena,’ he admits, ‘although if I ever get to a point where I can fill it I will probably contradict myself,’ he laughs. ‘I don’t want to just park myself in the 02 or Hammersmith Apollo and make people schlep in on the train. I prefer travelling to all the other really nice theatres in London.’ Davies’ show, Little Victories, is showing in New Wimbledon Theatre at the beginning of October and Davies can’t wait. ‘It’s a really lovely venue, so is the one in

21 B&C_Oct_Alan_Davies.indd 21

Richmond. They are really nice places to perform. They both are really well run and have comedy shows all the time, which is nice for me because I know that everyone in the audience will be comedy savvy. I’m really looking forward to them!’ Well, I think I can safely say Wimbledon is looking forward to having him in town too. If for nothing more than a good laugh. u Tickets cost £28.90 8pm, Thursday 9th October 2014 New Wimbledon Theatre, 93 The Broadway, SW19, 0844 871 7646; atgtickets.com

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:38

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> MUTED SHADES

p. 25

STYLE COUNCIL

p. 36

GIDDYUP Be you a country or town gal, the Massimo Dutti AW14 Equestrian Collection – with its berry velvet blazer (£145), jodhpurs (£69.95) and soft leather jacket (£265) – is definitely for you. 19-21 King’s Road, SW3, 020 7881 0070; massimodutti.com

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OCTOBER 2014

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FASHION /PRODUCTS PERCOSSI PAPI

Diego Sun and Moon Gold-Plated Amethyst Earrings, £805; net-a-porter.com

LES 100 CIELS

100% Cashmere Snood, £329; les100c.com

ETRO

Leather-trimmed Printed Cashmere Cape, £1,645; net-a-porter.com

WEEKEND MAX MARA

Wool Pace Coat, £448; matchesfashion.com

DAMSEL IN A DRESS

OSSIE CLARK

Barrington Dress, £109; damselinadress.co.uk

Castlebar Coat, £169; ossieclarklondon.co.uk

HOBBS

OSKA AW/14

Pembroke Belt, £59; hobbs.co.uk

BIBA

Black Dome Bag, £179; houseoffraser.co.uk

GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Coline Embellished Suede Sandals, £1,435; net-a-porter.com

MUTED SHADES

DION LEE

Open-back leather and faux patent-leather top, £425; net-a-porter.com

The new pieces that will take you from summer to autumn MARC CAIN

Embellished Collar, £38; marc-cain.com

HOBBS

Astrid Houndstooth Derby, £169; hobbs.co.uk

DICKINS & JONES Geo Print Skirt, £50; houseoffraser.couk

KIRSTEN GOSS

Carnaby Ring, £485; kirstengoss.com

25 B&C_Oct_Fashion_Products.indd 25

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 10:46

brand f o c u s

MAWI Off the beaten track Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N

Soar like an eagle and spring like a deer, let nature into your wardrobe

tatement jewellery is everywhere these days, but few brands can S match Dalston-based Mawi for youthful vision and sheer trend-setting razzle-dazzle.

Founded in 2002, over a decade later the brand’s collections feel fresher and look bolder than ever, with founder Mawi Keivom’s design nous and enterprising spirit celebrated at home (where even the Mayor of Hackney has sung her praises) and around the world. Mega-brands like Hugo Boss and Disney court her for collaborations, her pieces are stocked everywhere from Harvey Nichols to Opening Ceremony, and the company’s own boutiques – one in Shoreditch and the other in Montenegro (yes, Montenegro) – are thriving.

The recently unveiled ‘Thorn de Fleur’ collection builds on Mawi’s signature (and much-imitated) ‘deco glam’ aesthetic, introducing a note of grown-up sophistication while retaining the funloving spirit and striking designs. This time around, Keivom has added luxury leather clutch bags (in electric animal-print, no less) to her brand’s ever-growing list of must-have accessories. Visually arresting and oh-sohip, this is blog-bait at its best. ◆

words scarlet crewdson

Buy, Like, An Eagle Va l e n t i n o

● M AWA 11 Calvert Avenue, E2; mawi.co.uk

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B&C_Oct_Fashion_Notes.indd 26

‘Try if you can, To walk like a man, But if you don’t come near, You’ve got to fly like an eagle…’ We can’t seem to get Pretenders song Walk Like A Panther out of our heads when we look at this fierce but rather fabulous Eagle Intarsia Wool Sweatshirt by Valentino. 75% wool and 20% angora, it’s soft, it’s snug and it’ll fend off autumnal winds for sure. £3,045, 174 Sloane Street, SW1X, 020 7235 5855; valentino.com

26 08/09/2014 10:51

FASHION / NOTES

3

STEP SISTERS Bionda Castana

of the best

A favourite with celebrities; Bionda Castana has unleashed a killer collection for the new season.

Expertly hand-crafted in Italy but designed around London’s style sensibilities, these shoes are adult, edgy and feminine. biondacastana.com

STATEMENT STUDS 01

WHAT KATE DID NEXT elevenparis

ELEVENPARIS have just unveiled their AW14 campaign, fronted by Kate Moss and US rapper Wiz Khalifa. Controversial photographer Terry Richardson was behind the lens – though we reckon any kid with an iPhone could make these guys look great. elevenparis.com

02

03 01. MAWI, Chandelier earrings with Pavé crystals, £324, mawi.co.uk 02. OSCAR DE LA RENTA, Ombré bead tassel earrings, £337; matchesfashion.com 03. ERICKSON BEAMON, Gold-plated Swarovski crystal ear cuffs, £365, net-a-porter.com

INSIDE OUT MiH Jeans

MICRO TREND

This MiHJeans Larking reversible shearling biker jacket hits two key trends this winter, part biker jacket part wooly coat. Think of it as a double investment. £1,295; net-a-porter.com

Navajo Fringe Fe s t i v a l AQUAZZURA SASHA fringed suede ankle boots, £650; net-a-porter.com TALITHA Embroided Suede Cape, £1,143; matchesfashion.com

editor’s

PICK TANTASTIC mimiberry

Tan never goes out of fashion and this season it sailed down the catwalks in hues of chestnut, mahogany, burgundy and auburn.

Whatever the shade, move over to the tan side. Mimi Minerva Large Top Handle Bag in Tan, £406; mimiberry.co.uk

27 B&C_Oct_Fashion_Notes.indd 27

TAMARA MELLON Fringed Suede cropped top, £450; tamaramellon.com

FINDS Beaded fringed leather shoulder bag, £365; net-a-porter.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 10:52

Red jumper, £390, Moschino from Feathers, 020 7 589 5802 White and black fur jacket, £185; Unreal Fur from mywardrobe.com Black small bag, £580, Moschino Feathers as before.

Sequined mini skirt, £189, Gestuz; gestuz.com.

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 28

08/09/2014 10:58

Fe e l i n g

FOXY Faux fur is back – and this time it's irresistibly colourful as well as wonderfully tactile P h o t o g r a p h y t i f fa n y m u m f o r d Styling alex longmore

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 29

08/09/2014 10:56

Maroon and orange faux fur long gillet, £160; urbancode.com.

Leopard print shirt, £227; mih-jeans.com Grey jumper, £915 and matching skirt, £1,325 both Rochas at Feathers as before Black opaque tights, £8.99; Oroblu at mytights.com Oversized ring, £76.50; konplott.com Maroon boots, £540; Dear Francis at wolfandbadger.com

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 30

08/09/2014 10:56

Blue and white check shirt, £126, Rails at Harvey Nichols, 020 7 730 1234; harveynichols.com Bright faux fur scarf, £120; helenmoore.com Black net skirt, £ 215, Parosh at Feathers as before

Bow bikini top, £49, by Princesse Tam Tam; princessetamtam.co.uk Crochet pencil skirt, £399,

by Sea Ny at my-wardrobe.com Cream coat, £175,

by Pepe Jeans; pepejeans.com

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 31

08/09/2014 10:56

Maroon and orange faux fur long gillet, £160; Urbancode at urbancode.com.

Leopard print shirt, £227, MIH as before.

Grey jumper, £915 and matching skirt, £1325; both Rochas at Feathers as before.

Black opaque tights, £8.99, Oroblu as before.

Oversized ring, ££76.50; Konplott from konplott.com.

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 32

08/09/2014 10:59

Red jumper, £390, Moschino at Feathers, 020 7589 5802.

White and black fur jacket, £185,; Unreal Fur at mywardrobe.com Black small bag, £580, Moschino, as before Sequined mini skirt, £189; gestuz.com

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 33

08/09/2014 10:57

Blue and white check shirt, £126, Rails at Harvey Nichols 020 7 730 1234.

Bright faux fur scarf, £120, Helen Moore; helenmoore.com.

Black net skirt, £215, Parosh at Feathers as before.

Ethnic cuffs, £18 each, The Cross Shop 020 7727 6707.

Black opaque tights, £8.99, Oroblu as before.

Harlequin Print Satin Kitten Heels , £395; Bionda Castana at Net-a-Porter.com .

Photography: Tiffany Mumford Styling: Alex Longmore Model: Lisa Akkeson at Union Models.

Make Up: Caroline Sims using MAC Hair: Mary Caybakan using Kerastase Shot on Location around W10. Special thanks to The Globe, Georges Portobello Fish Bar329 Portobello Road 020 89697895, Pizza East and Toms.

B&C_Oct_FashionShoot.indd 34

08/09/2014 10:57

Antipodium

World Clique Shorts

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FEATURE

STYLE COUNCIL To celebrate its 30th anniversary, womenswear brand Eileen Fisher relaunch ‘The Icons’ and introduce a newer, bolder collection W o r d s r O M Y VA N D E N b R O E K E

T

rends are fleeting, which means you can now buy clothes so cheaply you may as well chuck them out after just one wear.

But, within this world of disposable fashions are things that will transcend time and trend.

One such brand working against the grain of frivolous fashion is Eileen Fisher: a New York-based womenswear company championing classic, elegant clothes.

Brand founder, Eileen Fisher, has admitted that the main motivation behind starting the brand was to solce her own ‘problem’ of getting dressed.

All she wanted was simple, beautifully made, chic clothes that made her feel good. Seemingly too much to ask, Fisher took matters into her own hands. She left the graphic design world, took $350 and started her eponymous clothing brand, Eileen Fisher.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

B&C_Oct_Eileen_Fisher_3pp.indd 36

Bypassing trends, Eileen Fisher woman and brand - are committed to creating luxurious, flattering apparel for women of all shapes and sizes.

Based in Irvington, New York, she has, for the past 30 years, produced exemplary clothes for women and now boasts 58 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with one on Wimbledon High Street.

Celebrating its 30th year, she launched with a tiny capsule collection of four simple items, which later became known as 'The Icons' collection. Each piece was created to embody the style, ease and wearability of the Japanese kimono (before Fisher started the brand she worked for a Japanese graphic designer and travelled to the country regularly.

She fell in love with the kimono and its enduring presence on the international fashion scene.)

The collection grew but The Icon range stayed small and consistent, comprised of only the original four items plus two

36 09/09/2014 12:09

FASHION / PROFILE

37 B&C_Oct_Eileen_Fisher_3pp.indd 37

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 15:10

BEAUTIFUL AND INSPIRATIONAL BATHROOMS BY GLASSTRENDS

We are a local well established company offering traditional service and values alongside well known high quality brands at very competitive prices. Please feel free to call into our showroom for a chat about your bathroom and frameless shower enclosure requirements where one of our experienced advisors will be happy to guide you through your desired bathroom design.

Visit our showroom at 163a St John’s Hill, London SW11 1TQ or CALL 020 7223 4017 to receive our brochure.

Alternatively visit www.glasstrends.co.uk

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FASHION / PROFILE

more. The Icons collection has been rereleased in celebration of the 30th anniversary, which includes the box top, the coat, the cardigan, the tank, the maxi and the dress.

A favourite of ours is the coat [pictured right]. Oversized and black, it is simple and timeless with large pockets and a slouchy neckline. The dress and tank are made from similarly simple patterns with high necklines, whilst the classic box top is a lose fitting lightweight jumper that can be styled with pretty much anything.

The 30th anniversary isn’t just about reflecting on the past and the brands foundations, it's about a launch too - the launch of The Fisher Project in conjunction with The Icons rerelease.

The Fisher Project, although working to a relatively classic motif, is more trend focused than The Icons, but still fits into the ‘wardrobe essentials’ category.

The pieces are bold and sleek, more exaggerated styles and silhouettes.

The environmental initiative focuses on processes such as renewable energy and recycling. Eileen Fisher also manages

I WANT TO ENCOURAGE women

entrepreneurs

to dodge the common misconception that sustainable clothes are unstylish and instead have made environmentally conscious clothing cool.

“The 30th anniversary is rooted in the idea of love because love is the essence of the brand, from how the clothes are made, to the culture of the company, to how they make you feel when worn,” says Eileen Fisher. The introduction of a new clothing line alongside The Icons was Fisher’s way of celebrating first loves and new loves.

More than just a womenswear brand, Eileen Fisher is also a generous investor in female entrepreneurs. Fisher founded the ‘Women-Owned Business Grant Program’ in 2004 - as a way of marking the brand’s 10th year - to generate interest

39 B&C_Oct_Eileen_Fisher_3pp.indd 39

and ambition in business women.

The programme requires applicants who are from 100 per cent womenowned businesses. It also looks for applicants who have a real focus within their businesses on social consciousness, sustainability and innovation and are just looking for that financial boost to set them on course. This year, Eileen Fisher will award $125,000 in grants to 10 recipients, with all successful parties receiving an invitations to New York in 2015, to participate in workshops and business seminars. “This is a challenging time for businesses,” says Eileen. “I know how important it is to have someone believe in and validate your work. I want to encourage women entrepreneurs, especially those who firmly believe that business can be used to create social change, even if the economic climate is uncertain.” u

23A High Street, SW19; 020 8695 2690; eileenfisher.co.uk

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:42

A4 Advert2-Absolutely Mag_Layout 1 26/03/2014 11:23 Page 1

Clapham’s Premier Salon & Clinic Clapham’s Premier Salon & Clinic

PAIN FREE SUITABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES

Hair Removal with SOPRANO ICE On mentioning

‘ABSOLUTELY’

RECEIVE 20% OFF SELECTED TREATMENTS

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SALON: • Threading • Brows & Lashes • Hair • Waxing • Nails • Facials & Massage • Spray Tanning

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when you mention ‘Absolutely’on your CLINIC: first treatment

• Non-Surgical Facelift • Microdermabrasion • Laser Hair Removal • Skin Rejuvenation

Salon: • Laser Teeth Whitening Threading Brows & Lashes Hair Waxing Nails Clapham Junction Facials & Massage 43 St. John’s Road SprayLondon Tanning SW11 1QW T: 020 3441 4450

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21 Clapham High Street London SW4 7TR T: 020 7720 3330

05/08/2014 09:35

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 42

FIRST HAND

p. 49

O, WHAT A ROGUE Ensure your hair is always looking healthy with R+Co's range of specially formulated products. Every product is free from toxins, vegan and offers UV protection. randco.com

41 B&C_Oct_Beauty_Opener.indd 41

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:08

b e au t y R e v i e w

ANESIS SPA Clapham

Wo r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

A blemish-free face, new scents and all your beauty needs taken care of this October

’m a sucker for a facial.

Especially since I moved to I London. All that grime and pollution has really taken its toll on my skin. As a teenager I was one of the lucky ones with a clear and bright face. But life in the city soon changed that. Breakouts, rashes and dry skin became the norm, and although my skin has since calmed down, it has never quite got its glow back. Until now.

Introducing the king of all facials, the Anesis Super Boost facial.

Anesis Spa is a haven of health and beauty preening, offering everything from blow-dries to dermal fillers. I was invited to try their signature super boost facial, which uses a steam and extractor machine to remove dirt and clear pores. The facial concentrates on problems such as dullness, dryness and congestion. Three things my skin suffers from daily.

The magic happens in a quiet upstairs room. The esthetician uses Anesis own brand cosmeceutical products and begins the treatment by cleansing the face with Anesis rosehip seed cleanser, before removing dead skin with the fruit acid 7.5% gel exfoliator. A facial massage follows, which includes lymphatic drainage techniques and lifting movements, all while the oxygen plasma serum gets to work. Then the oxygen plasma mask is left to work for 15 minutes, before the super boost and apple stem cell serum and moisturiser is applied. My face, after 60 minutes of devoted care and attention, looked like it did a few years ago: fresh, dewy and clear. I left feeling like my 20 year old self, and for that, Anesis spa, I thank you. ◆

W o r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

My Burberry Burberry

Heading the new ‘My Burberry’ fragrance campaign are catwalk queens Cara Delevingne and Kate Moss.

The playful shoot captures both of the supermodels wearing the iconic Burberry trench coat, which was the inspiration behind the scent. £65 for 50ml; uk.burberry.com

● A N E S I S S PA The Pavement, Clapham, SW4; 020 7627 1500; anesis.uk.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

B&C_Oct_Beauty_Notes.indd 42

42 09/09/2014 11:45

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

STARSTRUCK Hermes

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Hermès has released a limited edition bottle of Eau des Merveilles.

Elegant and feminine, the glittering bottle contains a delicate scent with no defining top notes, just hints of vetiver, cardamom and Elemi. £97 for 100ml; uk.hermes.com

editor’s

PICK

COCONUT VS. ALMOND

WHAT A CHEEK T o m Fo r d

Taken from Tom Ford's new autumn make up range, sweep the contouring cheek colour duo onto your cheeks for a peachy autumnal glow. £56, tomford.com

They are both bursting with vitamins and healthy fats, but which super oil works best for you?

01 03

02

Almond oil benefits

FIVE ELEMENTS

Full of vitamins, almond oil enhances the skin, reduces dark circles, fights against ageing and reduces sun damage.

K i t a Wo r l d

Inspired by the ancient oriental philosophy of the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water - the new skincare serums from Kita work to balance the human energy flow whilst benefiting skin for premium results. £95 for 50ml; kitaworld.com

1. L’OCCITANE, Almond Supple Skin Oil, £35; uk.loccitane.com 2. GEO. F. TRUMPER, Almond Oil Soap on a Rope, £15; trumpers.com 3. NEAL’S YARD REMEDIES, Almond Oil, £9.50; 4. KORRES, Hand Cream, £26; debenhams.co.uk 01

04

02

MAKE THE CUT Haircvt

Haircvt is the new go-to website for all hairdressing needs. It allows you to search for the cut type, colour or style you want, localise it and look at photos. The only way to get your hair done properly. haircvt.com

43 B&C_Oct_Beauty_Notes.indd 43

04

03

Coconut oil benefits Naturally moisturising, coconut oil is ideal for dry skin. It also clears up skin infections and fights against the signs of ageing.

1. KERSTIN FLORIAN, Face Crème, £24; kerstinflorianusa.com 2. SUTI, Honour Face Cream, £48; suti.co.uk 3. SUPERFOOD LX, Hair Nutrient Complex, £36; superfoodlx.com 4. KIEHL’S, Amino Acid Shampoo, £16; kiehls.co.uk

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 11:12

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS CLARINS

Eye Quartet Mineral Palette, £32; clarins.co.uk

ORIFLAME

Studio Artist Gel Eyeliner, £7.95; oriflame.com

BLINK BROW BAR

Nourishing Brow Oil, £16; blinkbrowbar.com

DIOR ADDICT It-Lash Mascara, £22; dior.com

LANCÔME

Grandiôse Mascara, £24.50; lancome.co.uk

TWEEZERMAN

Limited Edition Metallic Purple Tweezer Set, £33; asos.com

GIVENCHY

Ombre Couture, £18; harrods.com

IT’S ALL IN THE EYES

TOM FORD

Eye Colour Quad, £63; houseoffrasier.co.uk

Absolutely’s guide to autumn’s best eye make-up MAC

Waterproof Brow Set, £13.50; maccosmetics.co.uk

CHANEL

EYELURE

Les 4 Ombres, £40; chanel.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Brow Palette, £9.95; eyelure.com

44 09/09/2014 11:47

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08/09/2014 10:53

the design world is now on your doorstep Recently opened, absolute abode’s flagship store offers contemporary furniture, lighting and homewares, an interior design practice and café in Raynes Park. Come and find carefully curated homewares and gifts, with a product range that cannot be found anywhere else in London. Enquire about our interior design service and discover a place to eat, drink and catch up with friends. Private function room available for hire. absolute abode 76-78 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park, SW20 0AX

design@absoluteabode.com www.absoluteabode.com 0208 090 3212

absolute abode

design | café | emporium Absolutely3_190x134mm_3mmb.indd 1

01/08/2014 15:09

web: www.blacklionbuild.com

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enquiries@blacklionbuild.com

quoting ABSOLUTELY

08/09/2014 16:55

09/09/2014 14:45

HEALTH & BEAUTY / MAKE-UP INSIDER CHARLOTTE TILBURY Bronze

& Glow palette, £49, charlottetilbury.com

HD Eye & Brow Palette, £25, hdbrows.com

GREEN & SPRING Miracle

VALENTINO AW14

Nurturing Balm, £16, greenandspring.com

HOURGLASS

Ambient Blush Radiant Magenta, £28, uk.spacenk.com

The New Nude

CHANTECAILLE 15th Anniversary Palette, £63, uk.spacenk.com

Dare to bare, but make sure you keep an unshowy glow Wo r d s A R A B E L L A P R E S T O N

T

he Autumn Winter Couture catwalks were uncharacteristically restrained. Save for a couple of statement (yet still subtle) eyes, skin was kept bare, and lips were nude.

It’s a look that’s surprisingly hard to translate successfully to the real world. Here are my tips and products to help you achieve an unshowy glow.

01 Prep your skin as usual, then use this Green & Spring Miracle Nuturing Balm on any dry patches. I also use it to condition my eyebrows and lips. Apply foundation with Estee Lauder’s clever brush - it fits perfectly under your cheekbones and gives a flawless finish.

02 This Charlotte Tilbury Bronze and Glow palette is my go-to product for a successful nude look. Use the bronzer in the hairline at the top of your forehead and temples, then sweep it just under

ESTEE LAUDER

your cheekbones (suck in your cheeks to show where you’re going), and under the jawline. Use the Glow on top of your cheekbones, brow bone, and a touch down the centre of your face.

03 To subtly define your eyes, this Chantecaille palette gives a perfect sheen.

Use the copper shade in the socket and the pearl on the lid. The purple looks incredible just smudged into the lash line.

The Chantecaille Eye Stylo is the best pen for ‘tight-lining’ eyes - use the very tip to dot in between lashes for the ultimate barely-there definition.

04 A beautifully-defined brown will keep the look groomed and purposeful, rather than like you’ve simply forgotten to put make-up on. This HD Eye & Brow palette is always by my side - if you already have a strong brow then simply brush them up with the wax.

05 Avoid a ‘beige’ lip; instead plump for a nude that is one shade darker or peachier than you might imagine. 

47 B&C_Oct_Make-up.indd 47

Sculpting Foundation Brush, £37, esteelauder.co.uk

LEIGHTON DENNY Nail Polish

in Supermodel, £11, leightondenny.com

CHANTECAILLE Eye Stylo brown, £28, ukspacenk.com

HOURGLASS

Femme Rouge Lipstick in Grace, £22, uk.spacenk.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:40

Peterpenny's Hair and Beauty Salon

Peterpennys hair and beauty salon is an independent salon established in 1995. Our team of dedicated stylist’s are multi-skilled providing tailor made cutting and colouring to suit each individual client.

20% OFF Dermalogica skin treatment & blowdry On mentioning ABSOLUTELY (cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer)

■ FACIAL ■ MASSAGES ■ WAXING ■ MANICURE ■ PEDICURE

COMPLEMENTING THE SERVICES WE OFFER OUR BEAUTY THERAPIST REBECCA KING. With over 13 years experience working in prestigious spas and salons, Rebecca has become an expert within the beauty industry. For the past 5 years Rebecca has been working in an exclusive private members club offering the best in massages, facials and waxing.

And now she is offering all theses services at peterpennys.

TREATMENTS OFFERED

Download our free App for

SPECIAL OFFERS

Follow us on facebook

020 8780 5512 www.peterpennys.co.uk 277 Putney Bridge Rd, London SW15 2PT

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09/09/2014 14:46

HEALTH & BEAUTY / REVIEW

Nailed It

We get our cuticles pushed and nails painted to discover the top three manicures Wo r d s C E L I A L L OY D - J O N E S

GINA CONWAY

Wimbledon fter a sweaty and very delayed tube ride I arrived at the Aveda Gina Conway Salon in Wimbledon for my manicure.

Welcomed by immaculately groomed beauticians, I settled in for my treatment.

After selecting my chosen colour from the broad range of Essie nail polishes, I was led into a dimly lit, fragrant room where the series of treatments took place.

My hands were soaked, exfoliated, oiled and massaged, and then my nails were filed and painted. To top it off, whilst they pampered me, I received a blind folded head massage. Bliss. ◆ 21-23 Wimbledon Hill Road, Wimbledon Park, SW19; 020 8090 5818; ginaconway.co.uk

A

02

01 NAILSINC

04

ARK SALON

Putney renched from a midsummer pour, I arrived at ARK salon looking pretty unglamorous. Dry, welcoming and warm, I dried myself off and sunk into one of the cosy leather seats. Next to me a huge display of nail varnishes sat, so I busied myself choosing a colour for my nails. While I deliberated, my hands were soaked, nails filed and cuticles removed. I was already feeling more like myself. I opted for dark brown - I blame the rain - which was delicately painted on to each talon. Left to relax while my nails dried, it was only once the rain had gone and the sun shone bright that I wished I had gone for coral… ◆ 329-339 Putney Bridge Road, SW15; 020 8788 8888; arkskincare.com

D

03

1. LEIGHTON DENNY, I'm So Holly, £11; leightondenny.com 2. CHANEL, Orage, £18; chanel.com 3. NAILSINC, New Oxford Street, £14; nailsinc.com 4. BURBERRY, Teal Blue, £15; uk.burberry.com 5. GIVENCHY, Parure Scintillante, £15.50; givenchy-extravagancia.com

ALL ABOUT THE GIRL

Clapham he charming salon on Northcote Road is exactly what it says on the tin: a girly getaway. The brainchild of Tana Ramsey, Gordon’s wife, the salon specialise in everything from manicures to blow-dries, massages and facials. A sanctuary of beautifying, I opted for the hour-long manicure. They rubbed until my hands looked brand new and painted lashings of Leighton Denny dark red nail vanish onto my newly buffed nails. ◆ 141 Northcote Road, SW11; 020 7135 3577; allaboutthegirl.info

T

49 B&C_Oct_Manicure.indd 49

05

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 11:36

3

Fitness

CONFIDENTIAL Get in shape with the top fitness trends, tips and gear

of the best

FITNESS CLASSES

Wo r d s r o m y va n d e n b r o e k e

BRITISH MILITARY FITNESS Clapham Common

ou’re not going to mess around in a fitness class where the trainer is a member of the military, so this is the class for those lacking in motivation.

The classes take place on Clapham Common and include hardcore exercises military folk do on a regular basis, such as burpees, sprints and press-ups. Clapham Common, SW4; u britmilfit.com

Y

FLYING FANTASTIC Battersea

t’s as hard as it looks: pulling yourself up dangling silk ribbons, holding tricky postures and stretching yourself into positions you didn’t think possible. Not only does it have the same limbering effect as yoga, it also strengthens muscles you didn't know you had. I’m a convert, an ungraceful one, but a convert nonetheless. The Wilditch Centre, 48 Culvert Road, SW11; u flyingfantastic.co.uk

I

BARRECORE Wimbledon

ew to Wimbledon Village, barrecorre studios help clients achieve the ‘Barre Body’: a taut, lean physique crafted with muscle stretching exercises such as yoga, pilates and ballet barre. The signature class is the barrecore class, which offers low-impact, full-body interval training.

49 High Street, Lower Ground Floor, Wimbledon Village, SW19; 020 3151 5730; u barrecore.co.uk

N

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Tennis Garb Monreal London

New glamorous tennis outfitter, Monreal London is the brainchild of Stefanï Grosse, a German designer with a penchant for tennis. For Grosse it's about making women feel beautiful and stylish on and off-court. monreallondon.com

50 08/09/2014 11:39

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES BALANCED Balanced App

More than a mere fitness app, Balanced helps you create personalised checklists to keep yourself on top of health and fitness goals. If you are flailing, the app sends you gentle reminders to keep you driven. balancedapp.com

yo g a g e a r

editor’s

PICK WARM WORK

02

01

Nike

Don’t let the impending bad weather dampen your fitness regime, as Nike have just released their new Tech Butterfly Jacket to keep you warm outside. The oversized hood will keep out the wind whilst the cut of the jacket allows you to move.

Nike.com

PRIMAL PALEO BARS The Primal Kitchen

The paleo diet transcended its trend status and is now a dietary way of life. These bars from The Primal Kitchen are made from nuts, fruit and almond oil making them gluten and additive free. 18 bars for £27; theprimalkitchen.co.uk

03

04

ZOUND INDUSTRIES Zound Industries

Perhaps more of a fashion accessory than anything, these stylish headphones from Zound Industries are perfect for pumping out tunes while you work out. Made from leather, they can take you from the cross trainer to the tube. zoundindustries.com

51 CH_Aug_H&F_Notes.indd 51

05 06

1. LIVE THE PROCESS, £150; net-a-porter.com 2. ADIDAS; adidas.com 3. ADIDAS £18; adidas.com 4. ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY £; stellamccartney.com 5. NIKE, £55; nike.com 6. ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY £60; net-a-porter.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 11:39

The menu is contemporary and everything was cooked to perfection - a real creative twist and not what I expected.

Thanks Sylvan Oak !

- Anne from Wimbledon

A thoroughly enjoyable and relaxed dining experience in this bright and airy venue - Absolutely Magazines

A restaurant of this quality is much needed in the area.

Sophisticated but with a friendly team who make any occasion a memorable one - Perry from Wandsworth

FINE DINING IN LONDON

FINE DINNING IN SOUTH WEST LONDON

T: 0208 944 7944

E: reservations@sylvanoakearlsfield.co.uk sylvanoakearlsfield.co.uk 558-560 Garratt Lane, Earlsfield, London, SW17 0NY

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> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

p. 54

EAT THE SEASONS p. 58

CURRY HOUSE The Groovy Food Company have teamed up with TV chef, Dean Edwards, and created a range of recipes to liven up our healthy eating regime. We love the look of this aromatic pork and peanut thai curry. Yum. groovyfood.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 14:50

RECIPE o f t h e m o n t h

ROAST HAKE With cauliflower purée, mango, golden raisins and sugared pine nuts

Kitchen

CONFIDENTIAL South West London’s latest food news, served with all the trimmings w o r d s R O M Y VA N D E N B R O E K E

INGREDIENTS 4 x 160g portion of hake, skin on • Cauliflower purée 500g cauliflower (finely sliced no stems) • 1 shallot Whole milk to cover • 50g of butter • Salt METHOD 01 Sweat the shallots and cauliflower, add milk just enough to cook through. 02 Season and blend adding butter until very silky and smooth. 03 Pass through fine sieve. ◆

Salted Mango 01 Cut mango into 2cm wide and 1cm high squares, salt them and vacuum tight.

Sugared Pine Nuts 01 Cook the pine nuts in stock syrup (1 to 1 sugar/ water) for 30 mins. 02 Drain and fry at 160 until golden. 03 Season with salt and store in a dry place.

Curry Oil 25g Turmeric • 5g Chilli powder • 20g Ground coriander • 15g Ground cumin • 15g Ground ginger 52g White pepper • 500ml rapeseed oil 01 Toast all the spices, add the oil and bring to 70 degrees. 02 Keep and use as necessary.

Cooking the Hake 01 Using a non-stick pan, add a little rape seed oil and heat. 02 Season the fish with Maldon salt and place skin side-down onto the hot pan. 03 Once a light golden colour has been achieved, finish the cooking in the oven for 5 mins. 04 Remove from the oven and add a little unsalted butter to the pan and coat the fish until just cooked.

Pretty in Pink

Plating

Pierre Herme

Reheat the cauliflower purée and dress around the plate. 02 Place the fish in the middle and garnish with the capers, golden raisins, sugared pine nuts and curry oil mix. 03 Finish with coriander cress and lemon balm cress.

We have fallen for these rose macarons spiked with rose, lychee and raspberry from master pastry chef, Pierre Hermé as part of the new fetish ispahan collection. Available until the 19th October, £1.90 per piece; pierreherme.com

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54 08/09/2014 11:49

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES co c kta i l of the month

TEA FOR TWO

Mixed by charlie gilkes

Princeandsonstea

Pumpkin Bubble Tea

New tea brand, Prince & Sons, boast a range of twelve different tea blends, including chocolate cinnamon chai, caramel vanilla rooibos and afternoon tea for a premium brew. princeandsonstea.com

editor’s

PICK

◆ RECIPE

ANNA G ALESSI

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year is the iconic Anna G bottle opener from Italian kitchenware brand, Alessi. If this isn't the perfect excuse to pop open a bottle we don't know what is. £29.95; alessi.com

~ 50ml of Belvedere vodka ~ ~ 20ml of pumpkins and cucumber purée ~ ~ Sugar syrup ~ ~ Lemon ~ ~ Top up with Moët & Chandon ~ ◆ METHOD

Pour all of the ingredients (except the champagne) into a mixer and shake, strain into a tea cup. Top up with a splash of champagne and garnish with fresh slices of cucumber. Want to share? Multiply the ingredients and fill a tea pot with the mix.

FOOD insider

GRUBS UP

Can’t be bothered to cook? Pick up one of the new pasta sauce sachets from supermarket brand, G’NOSH. Choose from Italian sausage ragu, mussels and prawns in a garlic butter sauce or spicy tomato prawn and chorizo. Stocked in Waitrose; waitrose.com

Chef Garry Hollihe ad

The Northall Chef on Wandsworth THE BLOW OUT

COFFEE BREAK Cafe Pod

Putney based coffee producers, CaféPod, are the first non-nespresso coffee capsules compatible with nespresso machines. Choose from blends such as the Colombian with dark fruit and cocoa nib notes. cafepod.com

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Gazette, down by the river at Wandsworth Bridge. It’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I have been going for many years and it’s just a great unpretentious French café great at classic provincial cooking such as steak tartars, mussel’s marinieres and roast Foie Gras.

THE LIGHT BITE

Eric Lanlard at Cake Boy is a great Patisserie that Ella and Henry, our children, love to go to after school. They’ll have anything with chocolate.

There is also as a good cookery school at the shop.

A QUICK DRINK

As a keen gardener I can think of no better location than the gardens at Fulham Palace. Sit in the drawing room café or outside it’s a great location whatever the weather. Open all year, it’s located down at Bishops Park near Putney Bridge.

SUNDAY ROAST

You cannot do better than Mrs Hollihead’s Sunday roast. Lots of food and wine at home with our wonderful children. ◆ ● Try Garry’s food at The Northall, Corinthia Hotel, 10 Whitehall Place, SW1A; corinthia.com

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 12:56

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28/08/2014 14:29

FOOD & DRINK / RESTAURANT REVIEW

THE SQUID WAS

tender and coddled in a sticky, SYRUPY BATTER

THE JAM TREE Absolutely discovers a bit of post-colonial Britain in Clapham W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

P

erhaps the first thing to tell you about my meal at The Jam Tree is that it was better than I was expecting. The restaurant-cum-bar calls itself a gastropub – a term adopted by most foodserving pubs, including Wetherspoons – but I feel that moniker undermines its culinary prowess. Under the aegis of new head chef, Stephane Cedelle, the menu has been revised to focus exclusively on British classics and Colonial dishes, rather than just pub classics.

We arrived at the venue and took our seats in the restaurant’s sun-drenched open-fronted dining area, while the attentive waitress fetched our menus and requisite sparkling water. We were hungry, so my friend and I ordered almost before we’d sat down. Small plates of sutong manis (battered sticky squid); roasted quail and oyster mushrooms on toast and cauliflower and cumin fritters practically knocked us off our seats, so quickly did they fly out of the kitchen.

The squid was tender and came coddled in a sticky, syrupy batter. The chilli and lime dipping sauce gives the dish a much

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needed zesty kick - which helps turn my seafood-hating friend into a squid-o-phile for a minute or two. The quail was tender and tasty, but the ‘soft quail’s egg’ was about as soft as a rock. A shame since I’m a sucker for a runny yolk. The cauliflower fritters were our favourite of the three: delectable morsels of deep-fried cauliflower with hints of cumin and other spices all served on a creamy saffron and buttermilk sauce.

Onto the mains: udang massak, a classic Malaysian yellow curry with monkfish, prawns and squid, and a 7oz 28-day matured ribeye steak with triplecooked chips. The curry was piquant, full of flavour, but lacked in seafood. Note to chef: a few less quartered tomatoes and a few more chunks of monkfish wouldn’t have gone amiss. The steak was cooked just as my friend requested, and the shallot, garlic and parsley butter kept it fresh. The chips were crispy, and despite each being the size of a baby’s arm, were very tasty.

To finish we shared the salted caramel chocolate brownie with dulce de leche ice cream. The brownie was served cold – tut, tut - but was rich and indulgent nonetheless.

Opt for an après dinner drink in the Jam Tree’s garden – it’s all part of the charm. Our verdict? It’s not going to win a Michelin star, but this is the kind of neighbourhood gastropub we wish we had on our doorstep. u ● t h e jaM t r ee 13 Old Town, SW4; 020 3397 4422 thejamtree.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 11:51

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK STARTER

RABBIT CONFIT Wi th Celeri ac Cream

S erves 6 I n g re di e n ts

For th e rabbi t con fi t an d f loss • 5 rabbit legs • 1 tablespoon sea salt • 1–1½ litres duck (or goose) fat, melted

For th e soup • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra to finish • 2 large celeriacs, peeled and chopped • 1 onion, peeled and chopped • 750ml rabbit stock (or Chicken Stock, • 400ml double cream • a small handful of finely chopped chives or flat-leaf parsley, to garnish • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

ME T HO D

Eat the Seasons

Chef du jour Jason Atherton shares three autumnal recipes for the perfect October dinner party Photography john carey

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01 Preheat the oven to 120°C/Gas Mark ½. Put the rabbit legs into a deep ovenproof dish in which the rabbit legs fit snugly. Season with the sea salt then pour in enough duck fat to cover the legs. Place the dish into the oven and gently cook for 1½ hours or until the meat is tender. 02 Meanwhile, make the celeriac soup. Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof pan. Add the chopped celeriac and onion with some salt and pepper. Sweat the vegetables over a medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Pour in the stock, topping up with boiling water as necessary to cover the vegetables. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the celeriac is soft. Add the cream and season well to taste. Blend the soup using a hand-held stick blender (or a regular blender) until it is smooth and creamy. Reheat before serving. 03 When the rabbit confit is ready, remove from the oven and leave to cool slightly. Reduce the oven temperature to 100°C/ Gas Mark ¼. Once cool enough to handle, take the rabbit legs out of the fat (save it for roast potatoes or another dish) then pull the rabbit meat away from the bones. Set aside the meat from 3 of the legs and finely shred the remaining half. Spread out the shredded meat evenly on a wide baking tray. Place into the low oven and let the meat dehydrate for 45 minutes to one hour or until it dries out and turns crisp. Remove from the oven and leave to cool. 04 Just as you are ready to serve, heat 1–2 tablespoons of the confit duck fat in a wide frying pan. When hot, fry the reserved confit rabbit with a little salt and pepper until evenly golden brown. Take the pan off the heat. 05 To serve, neatly place the seared rabbit meat into the middle of the warmed soup bowls. Arrange small piles of the rabbit ‘floss’ on top of the meat. Carefully pour the celeriac soup into each bowl but do not allow it to come up to the level of the rabbit floss. Sprinkle with chopped chives, drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately. u

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FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES MAIN

ROAST VENISON

Wi t h b e e t ro o t w it h p o a c h e d p e a rs

S e r ves 6 I n gr e d i e nts • 6 x 100g boned loin of venison (ask your butcher for any trimmings for the sauce, if available) • 25g unsalted butter • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Fo r t he re d w in e s a uc e • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 shallot, sliced • 1 garlic clove, chopped • 1 sprig of thyme

• ¼ teaspoon white peppercorns • 1 bay leaf • 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar • 325ml red wine • 400ml Veal Stock (see page 219)

For th e roast beetroot • 600g beetroot (a mix of baby and normal-sized) • 4 tablespoons caster sugar • 4 sprigs of thyme • 4 garlic clove, peeled • 4 teaspoons sea salt • a few dashes of sherry vinegar

For th e spi ced h on e y sauce • ½ teaspoon lavender • ½ teaspoon coriander seeds • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds • ¼ teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns • 60ml sherry vinegar • 25g unsalted butter • ½ teaspoon sea salt • 200ml clear honey • squeeze of lemon juice

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For th e spi ced poache d pe ars • 1 litre water • 375g caster sugar • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 4–5 star anise, lightly crushed • 4 cinnamon sticks • 6 pears, peeled and cut into wedges 01 First, prepare the beetroot. Wash the beetroot and trim off the stalks. Place the baby and normal-sized roots into separate saucepans and cover with cold water. Add half the sugar, thyme, garlic, salt and a dash of vinegar to each pan. Simmer for about 40–45 minutes until the beetroot are tender.

Drain and leave to cool. Peel the beetroot and cut each one into 2.5cm cubes. Set aside.

02 For the spiced honey sauce, toast the lavender for a few seconds in a dry hot pan.

Tip in the coriander seeds, cumin seeds and Szechuan peppercorns, and toast for a few more seconds until the spices release their oils and fragrance. Pour in the sherry vinegar and boil until it has reduced to a sticky glaze.

Add the butter, salt and honey and bring back to a simmer. Continue to simmer until the sauce has reduced by two-thirds to a syrupy consistency. Strain it through a fine sieve and discard the spices. Season with a little squeeze of lemon juice. Set aside. 03 Next, make the red wine sauce. Heat the oil in a heavy-based pan until hot. If you have them, add the venison trimmings and fry them over a medium–high heat until golden brown on each side. Stir in the shallot and garlic and fry until they are lightly golden then add the thyme, peppercorns and bay leaf. Deglaze the pan with the sherry vinegar and red wine, scraping the base of the pan with a wooden spoon to release any browned sediment. Boil until reduced by three-quarters. Add the stock and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 20 minutes until the sauce is flavourful. Pass the sauce through a very fine sieve into a clean pan and boil steadily until reduced to a syrupy consistency.

Reheat before serving. 04 For the poached pears, put the water, sugar, lemon juice and spices into a wide pan. Stir to dissolve the sugar then bring the syrup to the boil. Gently lower the pears into the syrup. Cover with a dampened piece of baking parchment roughly cut to the diameter of the pan. Simmer gently for about 8–10 minutes until the pears are tender. Gently reheat before serving.

05 To cook the venison, heat the butter over a medium heat in a heavy-based pan. Add the venison pieces and sear until golden brown all over, keeping the meat medium-rare. This should take 5–8 minutes, depending on their thickness. Remove the venison to a warm tray and let the meat rest for a few minutes, while you reheat the pears, sauces and beetroot.

06 Place the beetroot pieces in a frying pan with three tablespoons of the spiced honey sauce and toss to coat. Heat for a couple of minutes, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Thickly slice the venison and divide between warmed plates. u

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 13:07

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION For thousands of years mushrooms have been revered and celebrated for their health benefits: fat free, cholesterol free, gluten free, low in calories, low in sodium, and rich in the important nutrients listed below: SELENIUM: works as an antioxidant and is in its highest concentration in mushrooms; it protects body cells from damage that leads to heart disease, cancer and other conditions caused by ageing; and has been found to be necessary for the immune system and male fertility; an important source of the mineral for vegetarians whose sources of Selenium are limited. ERGOTHIONEINE: is a naturally occurring antioxidant which also protects body cells. COPPER: helps keep the bones and nerves healthy.

POTASSIUM: an important mineral lacking in most people’s diet; it helps control blood pressure, and also plays a role in making sure that nerves, muscles including the heart function properly. VITAMIN B, RIBOFLAVIN & PANTOTHENIC ACID: help provide energy by breaking down proteins, fats and carbohydrates. They also play an important role in the nervous system.VITAMIN D: increases calcium absorption and improves bone and muscle strength reducing arthritis and osteoporosis. u

FLOWERS OF THE WOODS At Enoteca Turi Restaurant

or Italians the mushroom season is one of the most F eagerly awaited times of the culinary calendar; a great delicacy for which there are an amazing number of tasty recipes. To celebrate this versatile gift of nature, Michele, Enoteca Turi’s new chef from Lombardy, and Giuseppe have put together some classic regional dishes for a wonderful menu celebrating Mushroom Week from 29th September to 4th October.

Tiziano, a native of Bergamo and passionate mushroom picker, has worked closely with Enoteca for years to supply exquisite dawn-harvested varieties to the restaurant; the Porcini or Cep with its intense meaty flavour, the lesser known

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mildly nutty Pied de Mouton, the peppery Chanterelle, the Girolle with its distinctive yellow colour and funnel-shaped cap and the Black Trumpet, which is harder to find. Mushroom gathering requires skill and respect for the environment in order to select and preserve the most flavoursome specimens so Tiziano goes out early in the morning to forage in the ‘secret’ woods for these tasty treasures, or as he lovingly calls them, ‘ the flowers of autumn’.

ARE MUSHROOMS GOOD FOR YOU?

Book yourself in for a treat!

Enoteca Turi Restaurant 28 Putney High Street SW15 1SQ 0208 785 4449; www.enotecaturi.com

Not only are they a delicacy, but they are also, (excluding the poisonous and inedible varieties, of course) very good for you and a source of valuable nutrients.

● Set Mushroom Dinner 2-3 courses £30.50-£35.50 Monday to Thursday ● A la Carte Monday to Saturday

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FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES dessert

LONDON HONEY & ALMOND CAKE Wit h h o n e y jelly

S e r ves 8–10 • 200g unsalted butter • 150g clear honey, plus extra to glaze • 150g caster sugar • 200g ground almonds • 40g plain flour • 8 medium egg whites, at room temperature • crème fraîche or Vanilla Ice Cream

Fo r t he ho n e y j elly • 3 small gelatine leaves • 150g clear honey

• 35ml moscatel or sherry vinegar • 150ml hot water

O ran ge m arm alad e (opti on al) • 4 Seville oranges, about 500g, well scrubbed, quartered • 500ml water • 700g granulated sugar 01 To make the honey jelly, soak the gelatine leaves in a bowl of cold water. Heat the honey in a heavy-based saucepan until it begins to colour. As soon as it turns a caramel colour,

add the vinegar and water. Stir well to combine. If the honey hardens upon contact with the liquid, continue to heat and stir until it melts. Squeeze the excess water from the gelatine leaves and add these to the pan. Stir to dissolve. Pour the honey mixture into a small sealable container and leave to cool completely.

Cover the container and chill the jelly for a few hours until set. 02 For the marmalade, cut out the segments from the orange quarters. Thinly slice the orange skins using a sharp knife and set aside. Put the segments into a heavy-based pan and add the water and sugar. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat to the lowest setting and gently simmer for about an hour. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a clean pan, pressing down on the pulp to extract all the juice. Add the sliced orange skins and bring to a simmer. Gently simmer for another hour until the skins are tender and you have a loose marmalade consistency. To test if the marmalade has reached setting point, remove the pan from the heat then spoon a little on to a cold plate. Leave to cool for a few minutes. If the marmalade thickens and forms a skin, it’s ready. If not, return the pan to the heat and cook for a few more minutes and test again.

03 Preheat the oven to 180°C/Gas Mark 4.

Grease and lightly flour a 20cm loose-bottomed square cake tin. Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium heat. Let it cook until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty fragrance, then remove the pan from the heat and stir in the honey. Leave to cool. 04 Meanwhile, mix the sugar, almonds and flour in a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the centre of the dry mixture then pour in the butter and honey.

Fold the mixture until combined. Lightly beat the egg whites with a fork in another bowl, then add this to the batter. Fold through until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Pour the mixture into the prepared cake tin.

Bake for 30–40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Remove from the oven and leave to cool on a cooling rack. While the cake is still warm, brush a little honey on the top to glaze it. 05 Run a thin knife around the cake tin before unmoulding the cake. Cut into slices or squares and serve with the honey jelly, orange marmalade, if using, and crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream, as you prefer. ◆

● Exerts taken from Jason Atherton’s new book, Social Suppers, £17; jasonatherton.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:05

SKI BOOT LAB

www.profeet.co.uk/skiing

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PROFEET ARE THE UK SPECIALISTS IN SKI BOOTS, SKI BOOT FITTING, CUSTOM SKI INSOLES & CUSTOM LINERS

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A personal assessment with a skilled ski boot fitter

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Shell customisation and foam liners for comfort and precision

Call 020 7736 0046 Profeet 867 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5HP *depending on appointment type

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04/09/2014 09:23

> PURE SHORES

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GONE HUNTING

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BLUE CRUSH This month we are in the Maldives discovering unadulterated peace, pure luxury and all the different shades of blue. Image: Gadabouting, courtesy of Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives; gili-lankanfushi.com

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:21

XXXXXXXX / XXXXXXXXX

SPOTLIGHT

Pure Shores Absolutely discovers an island paradise at The Maldives’ Cocoa Island resort W o r d s R o c h e l l e S t r e at e r

W

e arrived at Cocoa Island in style – aboard a petite seaplane piloted by a relaxed, barefoot captain.

I immediately recognised the scenery below as if taken directly from the pages of a brochure; the semisubmerged islands and reefs dotted sparsely across the vast Indian Ocean.

Luckily the pilot remained, like the ocean, absolutely calm. All agitated nerves were swiftly appeased with a warm welcome and a cold flannel when we arrived at the gorgeous resort made up of beautiful wooden houses and walkways.

The precarious nature of the Maldives (it’s the planet’s lowest country at just 1.5 metres above sea level) has been well documented and sits in contention with its unspoiled, honeymoon paradise cliché. Though it is a touch surreal to be essentially deserted amidst a fragile archipelago miles from anywhere in the heart of the Indian Ocean, it’s incredibly

easy to give in to its abundant natural beauty. The resort has every kind of expected luxury on tap, but its clever design quietly understands that no modcon could begin to compare to what you’ll find outside your bedroom window.

Even the most ardent City worker will soon resign their BlackBerry to the hotel room. Cocoa Island has plenty of activities to keep you entertained, should you tire of il dolce far niente. For the actively inclined, the Maldives’ warm waters promise some of the world’s best diving. The famous Guriadhoo Channel lies on Cocoa’s very doorstep, while snorkelers can enjoy a marine-rich lagoon – pristine largely because of a lack of local sea traffic (this is not always the case north of Malé). Note that Cocoa Island has highly qualified instructors on the island to lead dives, as well as provide tuition for beginners. State-ofthe-art equipment is provided. Beyond Cocoa, there are a number of private excursions available. Island hop and enjoy beachside picnics. Follow dolphins from the prow of a privately chartered

EVERY PALAZZO, BRIDGE & NARROW

street of venice’s six districts has a RICH HISTORY

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Dhoni. Explore Malé, its markets and shopping possibilities. Or simply relax and feel rested for the silence Cocoa affords. Certain room types occupy ‘Dhoni’ boats, based on the designs used

by Maldivian fishermen. They are not unlike the houseboat typical of Kerala,

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

hut than the usual rough-rustic aesthetic favoured by other Maldivian hotels.

Restaurant Ufaa offers modern interpretations of Indian and Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on local produce, including seafood and signature healthy eating options, while the atmospheric bar Faru is open late and leads onto the beach and the infinity pool.

Instead of a spa, there's a retreat.

The Maldives is a country that needs to be seen to be believed. Forget what you think you know and lose yourself to its spellbinding natural beauty, which will – to dip well and truly back into the book of clichés – create memories that will last a lifetime. 

the nearest Indian state. Each of these 33 rooms – which include eight Dhoni Suites, nine Dhoni Loft Suites, ten Loft Villas, four One-Bedroom Villas and two Two-Bedroom villas sit offshore on the southern side of Cocoa, overhanging the lagoon. They are reached by planked walkways, structures that combine New Zealand pine with Kajan thatched roofs.

Natural materials are carried through to the interiors, with high raftered ceilings and glossy teak flooring.

The inside/outside space merges on the horizon-side, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows opening up to a substantial deck for slipping in and out of the water. These same decks provide privacy for lounging in the sun, or a place for quiet, al fresco dining.

The island’s serenity is reflected in the clean-lined, airy interiors combining whites and blues – more Hamptons beach

Suites atCocoa Island start at $750 per night in low season. comohotels.com

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:52

EUROPE

GONE HUNTING

Truffles are serious business in Tuscany, and one boutique hotel offers guests the chance to take part in a secretive search for the elusive tartufo Wo r d s A m a n d a C o n s ta n c e

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asta Luna, basta! The man jumped forwarded and grabbed something from the dog’s mouth. The size of a large golf ball, it was black, scored with deep lines, and covered with mud. Even from afar you could smell its earthy, strong aroma. This was a prized truffle and Luna, our trusty Tuscan truffle hound had just dug it out of the hillside.

We were on private land – a truffle reserve – a hilly, unprepossessing patch south-west of Florence. We had driven there with Mauro, a Tuscan truffle hunter, and his dog Luna in his van.

It had all been quite cloak-and-dagger.

A secret meeting at an anonymous road junction between our chauffeur-driven Mercedes and Mauro’s battered van was followed by a rendezvous in a layby, where we climbed into Mauro’s van and headed off-road to the reserve which lay behind chained gates. Truffle hunting is taken very seriously in Tuscany.

A truffle is a tuber, the fruiting body of a subterranean fungus. Highly prized around the world for its aromatic qualities in cooking, the rarest and best known is the ‘tartufo bianco’ the white

truffle, worth more than gold gramme for gramme. The best time to find white truffles is autumn; in late May we were hunting for summer truffles the ‘tartufo scorzone’. More abundant and therefore less expensive than its white cousin, the summer truffle is no less prized for its intense perfume and flavour.

Once inside the reserve, Mauro set Luna to work. He encouraged her constantly and fed her titbits of truffle from his pocket to whet her appetite. At first sight, she didn’t inspire much hope.

More mangy poodle than Hound of the Baskervilles, Luna seemed happy to meander about cocking her leg, much like a dog in a local park. But Mauro, who has hunted truffles since he was a small boy and admits to being ‘tartufo’ obsessed, explained this was all part of the warm up. We followed Luna, scrambled up and down hills, and then, as we stood chatting, it suddenly happened, Luna scrabbled frantically at the ground and a black ball seemed to roll out of nowhere – the elusive, fantastic truffle.

After that she was on a roll and couldn’t stop finding them. After an hour or so of exciting hunting, we returned to the van, Luna smothered with appreciation by us doubting Thomases.

THE WHITE truffle IS WORTH more than

gold, gramme for GRAMME

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TRAVEL / ACTION

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:58

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TRAVEL / ACTION Mauro then took us, pockets bulging with our booty, to an osteria in a nearby town where his friend the chef patron is famed for his cooking with truffles.

Completely off the tourist trail, the restaurant was packed with locals; we sat drinking Chianti from jugs and sampled our treasure. First we ate them as fat shavings over buttery fresh ravioli packed with sweet ricotta and thinly sliced pear and then a typically Tuscan secondi piatti of fried eggs served with truffle shavings and lashings of black pepper. The extraordinary thing about tartufo is that you eat them with your nose –a little like fresh coffee, the smell is what excites more than the taste.

It was a truly unique and very Tuscan experience and one offered to guests by the clever people at Borgo Santo Pietro, the boutique hotel we were staying at near the ancient hill top town of Chiusdino, south west of Siena.

Enterprising Danish couple Claus and Jeanette Thottrup found the run-down 13th century farmhouse and land in 2001 and with hard work and obsessive perfectionism, they have turned it into a 16-room boutique destination. Part stately home, part rambling homestead, Borgo was never going to be big (though there is planning permission for eight more rooms) but it is quite perfect, from the moment you sweep through the wrought iron gates down a curving gravel drive lined with Cypress trees, you know you are somewhere special.

The main house used to be a healing retreat for pilgrims and the Thottrups have worked hard to make this a dreamy haven from reality. Its size means that staying here is an intimate experience, the staff quickly know you and fellow guests soon become familiars.

Luxury is Borgo’s calling card and for the Thottrups this means an amazing attention to detail. Every aspect of the house and gardens has been restored attentively, beautifully and respectfully.

The rooms are all furnished with pieces that Jeanette has handpicked from flea markets and antique shops across France and Italy. Hi-spec mod cons are artfully hidden behind paintings and each bathroom is stocked with lotions and potions from the hotel’s own spa.

The overgrown gardens and desolate fields have also been lovingly restored.

The Thottrups have planted more than 250,000 plants, built a lake and created an organic kitchen garden.

Truffle hunting is just one of the activities on offer at Borgo as part of its Concierge Collection; you can have an art lesson, go quad biking, ride a horse or fly in a hot air balloon or plane. There are also authentic cookery lessons spanning learning how to make pizza or fresh pasta.

Food is hugely important here. There is a great emphasis on seasonality and local produce, much of the fruit and vegetables come from the hotel’s own gardens. There are two restaurants, the Valle Serena, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant and the Treehouse Bar, a more informal brasserie, all presided over by new executive chef Francesco Gasbarro. This autumn the hotel is opening its own restaurant in Florence, a step only the most supremely confident kitchen would take.

We ate dinner at the Valle Serena one evening, looking out over the valley

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after which it is named. The cooking is very formal and technical; the standout meal was a beef tartar made from the celebrated local Chianina cattle. An attendant sommelier wine matched each of our dishes with an emphasis on local vintages of which there are many. For more hearty, informal fare, there is the relaxed Treehouse Bar, which serves great cocktails, fantastic fresh grills, salad and antipasti. And if the night air starts to nip, the waiters light you a personal wood burner by your table. A great slab of pork from the local Cinta Senese pig kept my other half busy, a langoustine spaghetti and a mozzarella salad all made with the sweetest of local tomatoes delighted me.

Like everything at Borgo, the food is the very best it can be. What more could anyone ask for. Maybe just one more truffle shaving? u Truffle hunting is priced at €275 per person.

The hunt can be arranged on request and the season runs from 1 September until mid-June.

Room rates for the remaining season (end of October) range from €395 per night up to €1830 per night for the Grand Suite Santo Pietro.

Breakfast and tax are included). Prices are inclusive of Borgo gourmet breakfast, flower decoration, prosecco and fruit upon arrival in each room.

For more information please email info@borgosantopietro.com or call on 00 39 0577 75 12 22. borgosantopietro.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:58

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10/09/2014 19:21

TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY HOTEL

S

ituated down a discreetly sign posted road, Congham Hall stands proudly at the end of a gravely drive amidst 30 acres of grounds. This pretty Georgian building has a somewhat potted history. Little is known about its past apart from that it was originally owned by a wealthy merchant from nearby King’s Lynn, and it remained a family home until it was purchased in 1982 and turned into a hotel. In 2012, hotelier Nicholas Dickinson brought the property and it underwent a major revamp early last year. It’s an inviting, homely environment (well-behaved dogs are welcome) and the decor is traditional country home meets contemporary luxury. There is also a tennis court (equipment is available free from reception) if you fancy a quick game before dinner. ◆

Congham Hall NORFOLK

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

SPA GROUNDS

T

he pristine gardens are boutique rather than sprawling but they’re a real highlight of Congham Hall.

Hardy outdoor boots are lined up at reception ready for hire, and the grounds are dotted with nostalgic pursuits such as lawn croquet, boules, a putting green and even a trampoline for the kids. The hotel is situated less than an hour’s drive from Cromer and the seal boat trips along Blakeney Quay are well worth a visit. Congham Hall’s appeal, however, is that its situated in the middle of the countryside. It’s a romantic place and lack of decent phone reception is swiftly appeased by relaxation. ◆

A

large chunk of the 2013 refurbishment went on the already existing spa; a separate annex situated just behind the hotel. Newly launched as the Secret Garden Spa, it’s small but well kittedout, with a 12-metre pool, sauna, steam room, four treatment rooms and even an outdoor hot tub. I enjoyed a superb hot stone massage before testing out the rest of the facilities and eventually retiring to the tub to soak up (pun intended) the tranquil surroundings. ◆

T

here’s a well stocked bar and pleasant outdoor terrace to take advantage of if the weather is good. Dinner is served in the large, tastefully decorated dining room and the fare is British with a focus on local seasonal produce. The chefs get the pork from nearby rare-breed farm, Fruit Pig Company, venison from Hokam and crab from Cromer. After a sumptuous dinner retire to the hotel’s charming sitting room-cum-library and relax. A breakfast of crepe-style pancakes with bacon and blueberries was also deliciously indulgent. ◆

THE DAMAGE A double room at Congham Hall, with breakfast, costs from £125 per night for midweek stays, and from £150 for Friday and Saturday nights. To book, call 01485 600250 or visit. www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 12:11

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:27

10 of the best

Geometric interiors 01

DIGITEX HOME

Liberty pull out all the stops and spotlight on Decorex

Geometric Yellow Wallpaper, £40; digetexhome.co.uk

Wo r d s g e M M a b i l l i n g t o n

ASPACE

Geometric Rug in Blue, £175; aspace.co.uk

02

AXIS

Shelving Unit Indigo Blue, £149; made.com

03

LORNA SYSON

04

Bradbury Elderberry Lampshade, £42; lornasyson.co.uk

05

Stitched Up L i b e r t y A r t Fa b r i c s

Synonymous with elegant design and craftsmanship, Liberty Art Fabrics have been creating beautifully traditional textiles for over 130 years. Their new range encompasses four gorgeous new collections of furnishing fabrics and wallpapers. liberty.co.uk

BERT & MAY

Sage tiles from the Flecha Collection, £9 per tile 20cm x 20cm; bertandmay.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES

A IS FOR ANTIQUES marmorealondon

If you love antiques, you must pay Marmorea a visit. Offering all manner of antique treasures – from marble and stone fireplaces, to free standing grates, ornate Italian mirrors and European chandeliers – there’s no way you’ll leave empty-handed. 290 Battersea Park Road, SW11, 020 7924 2010; marmorealondon.com

editor’s

PICK SCANDI STYLE Occa Home

Designer brothers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec are inspired by natural form and designed this 'Vegetal Chair’ for Swiss furniture giants Vitra back in 2008. It’s now available at Occa Home in six different colours. We love it in cool Mauve Grey. £343.20 occa-home.co.uk

LORNA SYSON

Warwick Blind, £85; lornasyson.co.uk 10

HUNKY DORY HOME

Kaleido Geometric Clock Multi, £25; hunkydoryhome.co.uk

09

CHESTNUT HORSE D r a g o n s o f Wa l t o n S t r e e t

NORMANN COPENHAGEN

Made from English Chestnut grown in Windsor Great Park, this adorable rocking horse is hand polished. Perfect for playrooms. £5,200; dragonsofwaltonstreet.com

Geo Thermos Flask in Purple, £55; black-by-design.co.uk

08

BESPO

Sharp Cushion, £21; bespo.co.uk

BATHE IN BLISS Glasstrends

There are very few worries a long soak in the tub cannot soothe.

So make your tub the best it can be. Glasstrends offer a bespoke design and installation service for beautifully crafted baths, frameless glass shower surrounds and more.

The only worry you’ll have here is which to go for. 163a St. John’s Hill, SW11, 020 7223 4017; glasstrends.co.uk

07

A MIND’S EYE

The Tab Collective Polygon Coffee Cup and Saucer, £24; thetabcollective.com 06

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 09:32

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HOMES & INTERIORS / PRODUCTS RUME

ANGLEPOISE

Flowerpot VPI Pendant in Orange, £179; rume.co.uk

Giant 1227 Tranquil - Duck Egg , £2,400; occa-home.co.uk

THE RODNIK BAND

Match Box Framed Print, £99; made.com

BIBA

Stripe Monochrome Vase, from £45; houseoffraser.co.uk

THE BEATLES

Remixed Gig Poster, £15; notonthehighstreet.com ©DMITRIY SCHUKA

TATE

Bob and Roberta Smith Blocks, £30; shop.tate.org.uk

HEAL’S

Massimo Rosa Rug, £659; heals.co.uk

JONATHAN ADLER

Peace & Love Coasters, £34.99 (set of 4); uk.jonathanadler.com

JONATHAN ADLER

Turquoise Pop Decanter, £198; uk.jonathanadler.com

COLOUR POP

CONTENT BY CONRAN Glove Armchair, £2,115; contentbyconran.com

Living rooms POP with our‘60s-inspired interiors

RUME

Powis Sofa, POA; rume.co.uk

ANDY WARHOL

Desk Box, £22; shop.bl.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:33

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02/09/2014 14:48

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

WINTER WARMERS

Wimbledon-based fireplace providers, Grate Expectations, introduce new fires to their portfolio just in time for autumn ith the impending cold weather and the reality of W extortionate bills on the horizon there is no better time to find an alternative and effective way to heat the home. Thick winter knits and hearty food may warm a little, but nothing beats a roaring fire on a chilly winter night. Luxury fireplace dealers, Grate Expectations, know a thing or two about heating the home sourcing some of the best fireplace and stoves from producers around the world.

Grate Expectations are stockists of one of the most successful fireplace producers in the world, DRU, a company

hailing from the Netherlands who has been leading the way in the market since 1754. New to Grate Expectations’ portfolio is the Metro 100XT: a contemporary letterbox gas fire. Unlike the original Metro fire, the 100XT has more height and can thus display big realistic logs and higher flames. The fire also has an efficiency rating of 85%, making it one of the most proficient and impressive gas fires on the market.

The Global Beau freestanding stove from DRU is a contemporary take on a classic, despite being powered by gas.

The stove is available in either traditional black or ivory, for a modern feel.

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Norwegian producers Jøtul have been “fighting the cold since 1853”. The Jøtul F373 wood-burner won the Best of the Best award at the Red dot design awards and is the first wood stove to have ever won this prestigious accolade.

With creativity, functionality and craftsmanship Dik Guerts offer an extensive range of robust free-standing stoves, insert and built-in fires. DG Fires design and manufacture contemporary stoves that are easy to use and highly efficient. Comprised of the latest in stove technology DG Fires are suited for both urban and rural homes.

Grate Expectations Ltd are expert distributors and installers of Dru, Dik Guerts, Jøtul and many more manufacturers of luxury gas and wood burning fires. Established for over 25 years they remain a successfully running family business with many satisfied clients. Our aim is to ensure our team offer the assistance required in choosing your fire giving you peace of mind and complete satisfaction on your purchase. u 1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, London, SW20 8JT, 020 8540 8387 grateexpectations.com

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 09:46

DESIGN

Trimarchi’s Way Italian architect, Mario Trimarchi on Alessi and art ahead of this year’s designjunction W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

“C

an you hear me?”

Despite his thick Italian accent, architect Mario Trimarchi’s voice rings sharp. “Yes,” I respond, “loud and clear.” His voice softens and so begins a flowing discussion with a passionate man about his career, his art and his dedication to Italian super brand, Alessi.

Trimarchi is a proper creative: a multitalented architect-cum-designer-cum-art director who has spent the duration of his career in Milan. Moving from Sicily in the 80s, Trimarchi began studying at renowned Domus Academy: a school flagged ‘The Home of Italian Design’.

Milan quickly became the only place for Trimarchi to grow as a designer. “Milan was full of energy due to Archimea and Memphis [Italian design studios] and the ubiquitous avant-garde movement.”

Later pilfered by Michele de Lucchi, Trimarchi joined the seminal Olivetti design studio and began work on a new kind of design project, exploiting new computer technologies. He then went onto launch his own branding agency called FRAGILE, which champions complete corporate identity design. The

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INSPIRATION

BY THE notion of the products TURNING UP ON MARS agency builds the character of brands and companies by taking on every facet, from architecture through to industrial design.

Now a veteran on the design scene, Trimarchi proudly calls himself an architect of the ‘freehand generation’.

This term, ‘freehand generation’, was coined in recent years since technological developments changed the face of design.

A freehand designer is someone who still uses drawing and sketching as their primary research method, rather than relying on computers to build blueprints.

Being a freehand designer and using more “primitive tools and processes, such as drawing, sketching, pencils and pens” is something he holds dear. “Every morning when I wake up I take a piece of paper and I draw,” discloses Trimarchi.

“I fill a number of sheets of paper nearly everyday as a way of understanding shapes and shadows. I only draw in black and white, so the position of the sun and the shadows it casts are a very important part of my process.”

Is he part artist part designer then, I ask? “It is very difficult to understand the borders between art and design.

Artists very much live to design, but designers are very concerned not to call their job ‘art’ because it seems too ambitious.” It is a complicated distinction for Trimarchi, but he, himself, admits to having dabbled in the conceptual world of design, giving the example of his famous coffee maker, Ossidiana, which he created for kitchenware brand Alessi earlier this year. He describes the object as more of a sculpture than anything, and as a product of his new, experimental approach to

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HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:36

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HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT design. “You mix the disciplines and the approach. If you design something as an industrial product then you start from the gestures of a sculpture.” In that case, he is an artist too? “I don’t want to say this means I am an artist,” he asserts, “or that the product is a sculpture. I don’t want to say this. But the approach is the same [as that] used to create a work of art.”

Trimarchi’s freehand style applied to research and design, is less common these days, as it can be limiting when faced with a marketing brief. Trimarchi has worked with numerous big brands in the past including Philips, Matsushita and Artemide, but now focuses exclusively on collaborations with Alessi. In an honest tone, he admits it’s because at this stage in his life and career he wants complete, creative control. And, unlike many other brands he has worked with, Alessi allows him to develop and work on every single facet of a project, from start to finish.

THE CRITERIA IS THE SAME as pink

floyd’s... selecting 20 hits FOR A GIG Trimarchi has a venerable relationship with Alessi, both parties holding each other in high esteem. He has designed for the brand on numerous occasions, so was the natural choice for its managing director, Alberto Alessi, when the brand were looking for an art director for Alessis's recent project, Super & Popular.

Super & Popular is a curated selection of Alessi’s seventy most successful products taken from a portfolio of more than 2,000. Trimarchi refers to the project as a compilation of Alessi’s most popular and successful works, “the criteria is the same one Pink Floyd use when selecting 20 hits for a gig. They select them because they like them, because they are very successful, because

The Super & Popular collection is being exhibited at London’s designjunction in September, in the midst of Alessi’s inaugural café bar. Fair goers can grab a caffé and aperitivo at the pop up bar designed by Mario. Situated on the ground floor at The Old Sorting Office, 21-23 New Oxford Street, WC1A; thedesignjunction.co.uk

83 CH_Oct_MARIO_TRIMARCHI.indd 83

they belong to different parts of their career and because they represent them.” This notion of compiling items as a means of telling Alessi’s story is very important to Trimarchi and it was the inspiration behind the packaging design for the Super & Popular series.

Each chosen item comes boxed in a thoughtfully designed box, conceived

by Trimarchi, covered with sketches, photos and quotes. His inspiration was heightened by the notion of these products turning up on Mars. He wanted the packaging to explain how we live on this planet and why we need, use and have these objects in the first place by letting “the objects speak about their lives.”

Alessi is different to many of its competitors as it consistently takes the time to celebrate the designers as much as it does the products. It’s about collaborations rather than just objects, which takes Alessi's approach to a whole new level, “they are shaping the future of the home together with these designers, by creating functional objects, new icons for the home and objects that tell stories” remarks Trimarchi. And that, for him, is reason enough to stick by them. 

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:36

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

FOCUS

Inside Track Absolutely’s guide to the very best interiors shops in South West London Wo r d s C a r a c u m m i n g s

BARKER & STONEHOUSE

Battersea u Britain’s largest independent furniture company opened its flagship London store just last year. Visiting the stunningly renovated former Candle Factory on York Road is an experience in itself, with two floors of statement furniture, hand-finished leathers and one-off vintage pieces to explore. Exclusive collections include quintessentially British offerings from Timothy Oulton – look out for his Spitfire-inspired Aviator armchairs – and Little Tree’s newly launched range of coffee tables and sideboards, each handcrafted from reclaimed timber. u Barker and Stonehouse, 10 York Road, Battersea, SW11 3RD, 0203 040 6000 barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

BARKER & STONEHOUSE

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PLACES & SPACES

SIBAST CHAIR, ABSOLUTE ABODE

ABSOLUTE ABODE

Raynes Park u Architectural interior designer Kirsty McMorron has opened her first flagship store, consultancy and café – and its well worth a visit to Raynes Park. Customers can discuss plans for a full renovation or redesign, browse a stunningly curated range of homewares and gifts and enjoy treats from a café that boasts former Lantana and NOPI chef Reagan Ellenbroek at the helm. A real destination venue for the area that exudes its founder’s ethos: “beauty, integrity and nourishment”. u Absolute Abode, 76-78 Coombe Lane, Raynes Park, SW20 0AX, 0208 090 3210 absoluteabode.com

Clapham u For unique designer pieces with a playful sense of fun, head to Places and Spaces in Clapham Old Town. Bursting with colour, the showroom’s a treasure trove of cutting edge international design from brands like droog, Oficina Kreativa, Mater and Fambuena, and pieces that make owner Laura Slack smile. Stocking everything from beds, to benches, to luggage and lighting – the clothes hanger lamp is a particularly bonkers fave – Slack’s team will also work with customers to build a room around a style, theme or individual piece. u Places and Spaces, 30 Old Town, Clapham, SW4 0LB, 020 7498 0998 placesandspaces.com

AFLAIR

Putney u Sleek functionality and quiet luxury are the name of the game at Aflair, an interiors gem in the Exchange Shopping Centre. Stylish and contemporary, it’s stock of furniture, lighting, sofas and accessories combine clean lines, elegant materials and splashes of colour with ranges for every room of the house. Take advantage of the upcoming ex-display promotion to nab a real furniture bargain. u Aflair For Home, The Exchange Shopping Centre, Putney, SW15 1TW 020 8789 7377 aflair.co.uk

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HOMES & INTERIORS / ROUND-UP

HABIBI

OLD BOOT

Wa n d swo rth u A sofa rescued from a flea market and lovingly restored kick-started the Old Boot story. So enamoured were founders Andy Conaway and Glenn Beckman with ‘The Judge’ that they set out to source and share similar ‘special sofas’. Now, his Fulham showroom stocks sofas and chairs all handmade in the UK using specially- developed distressed vintage leathers. Sumptuous Chesterfields, sturdy club chairs and immaculate wing chairs will add a dose of hearty British style to any room. You can buy from shop stock, or build your own one-off via a bespoke design service. u Old Boot, 152 Wandsworth Bridge Road, Fulham, SW6 2UH, 020 7736 3738 oldbootsofas.com

BEAUMONT INTERIORS

Wimbledon u With a soft furnishings and homewares shop to complement an award-winning interior design practice, Beaumont Interiors are firm fixtures on South West London’s design scene. Their charming Wimbledon Village store stocks elegant fabrics and wallpapers from brands like Etamine, Travers and Lorca alongside a new range of bespoke furniture that can be customised by client. Also on offer are a full soft furnishing service and an inhouse upholsterer to restore or redesign much loved pieces. Pop in to check out the store’s grand refurbishment, set to be unveiled in September… u Beaumont Interiors, 10A High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19, 020 8946 3995 beaumontinteriorslondon.com

AFLAIR

HABIBI INTERIORS

Wandsworth u Seeking a little North African warmth for your living room, bedroom, kitchen or bathroom? Head to Habibi, Moroccan décor specialists and distributors, and the UK’s leading manufacturer of handcrafted, authentic Moroccan tiles.

From a specialist artisan workshop in Fez, tiles are hand-cut, chiselled and painted to order, and can be customised for any combination, style or design. On top of all of this, Habibi also stock vibrant and striking doors, fountains, fireplaces and washbasins to complete a riadinspired look. u Habibi Interiors, 328 Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6, 020 7610 9944 habibi-interiors.com

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CHIC SHACK

Putney u Pay a visit you’ll see why we’ve called Chic Shack “the loveliest shop in Putney” in the past. Portuguese designer Maria Myers’ store is a haven of beautiful furniture and homewares inspired by classical French and Swedish 18th century designs. Myers combines clean chic with functionality – all children’s furniture comes finished with a wipeclean varnish. Look out for charming bed linen, stationary and glassware, too. u Chic Shack, 77 Lower Richmond Road, Putney SW15 1ET, 020 8785 7777 chicshack.net/home u For more of the best interior shops in Southwest London turn to page 90

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03/09/2014 09:56

INTERIORS / PROFILE INTERVIEW

EYE FOR DESIGN Clapham-based designer and Clapham Arts Prize judge Tim Gosling discusses tradition, taste and community Wo r d s j o h a n n a S U D E L L

we are going to achieve. I find that language is inadequate to describe and create what we need – it’s much faster and better to be able to see it as a drawing and to discuss it at that point: “When I meant a high console table, I didn’t really mean that high etc ...”

There are so many brilliant craftsman who are brilliant at creating but don’t know how to communicate the idea, so the client doesn’t accept the piece.

The drawings and all the watercolour visual work is critical in making a commission happen – the client and the craftsman should completely understand what is being made.

JOHANNA SUDELL How long have you been a designer?

TIM GOSLING I started drawing as soon as I could hold a pencil really, I studied for 4 years at the Central School of Art and Design in London.

JS What made you become a designer?

TG It was a burning desire from day one.

JS Where do you find your inspiration?

TG My inspiration comes from classical design, architecture and Theatre.

JS How has your personal work evolved?

TG My work is continuously evolving as the world around me does. The ability to work with new materials and push the boundaries of design is exciting, especially as we are living in a time where technology and Science now play such a large role.

JS What is the importance of design?

TG I am passionate about ensuring that the classical rules of furniture design do not get lost in our modern world. I like to respect the rule of the period even with a modern interpretation. If you want to break the rules you need to know what they are first.

JS What three words describe your style?

TG An Evolution of Classical Tradition.

JS Have you witnessed a change in the design world?

TG Many things have changed, the speed of which we design and communicate that process is now unrecognisable compared

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to where we were ten years ago. The idea that you can create design that people can contribute to from around the world as an international collaboration, would have been thought of as science fiction until very recently – is now an everyday fact.

JS Tell me about your artistic process?

TG I always sketch by hand first. It’s very important for my clients to see how the design will work within the space. Luckily I can sketch very quickly, so can make a client’s vision come to life and we can both leave the meeting with a visual idea of what

JS To be a good designer do you have to have good taste?

TG Taste is a matter of opinion but to be a good designer you have to believe in your taste and to understand historically where it comes from. I don’t believe you wake up one morning and just ’happen ‘ to dislike something, you learn to evaluate information and trace its origins – that gives you an informed option.

JS Do you think you’ve got good taste?

TG I think I have an understanding of lots of different cultures and historical appropriateness.

JS You’ve been described by The Sunday Times as an “interior designer to the rich and famous”: is that how you see yourself?

TG No, I’m very lucky that my clients are very discerning and share my passion for furniture, interiors and learning.

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HOMES & INTERIORS / PROFILE TO BE A GOOD DESIGNER

you have to believe in YOUR TASTE

JS What’s the most extravagant interior commission you’ve taken on?

TG There have been many that if have been fortunate to be asked to design and to create pieces for, from an apartment in a Palazzo in Venice, to Chagall’s house in the south of France.

JS You’ve worked with some big names in the design world, including David Linley: who has been your favourite?

TG I have been lucky enough to have had numerous collaborations with some of the biggest names in the design world for which I am very grateful. I enjoy working with Anouska Hemple who I think is extraordinary – Todd Hunter Earle is an exceptional company to design with and we have created a great collaboration of furniture together over the last few years, and David Linley who taught me about the art of Craftsmanship and the attention to detail.

JS You are based in Clapham, what is it about this area of London that appeals to you?

TG I have lived in Clapham for many years.

My house was built in 1787 and was the original old laundry and to wake up each morning with those Georgian proportions, gives me such a great sense of happiness.

I’ve also been very involved with creating a sense of community around me here – Working on making an organisation called ‘Omnibus’ happen has been such a joy – we have created a 90 seat theatre in the Old Library on Clapham Old Town – two

rehearsal rooms and a great sense of artist focus. Its run by a brilliant artistic Director called Marie McCarthy who is exceptional.

JS You were a judge at this year’s Clapham Art Prize. What did that mean to you and what do you look for?

TG It was an honour to be a judge and I am always keen to celebrate fellow artists work and to be reminded of the sheer number of talented people living in Clapham. I look for Integrity, spark and an interesting twist.

JS What excites you about London’s design scene?

TG It’s very exciting to live in a city which is a world leader in the design world. I try and get to see something at the theatre at least once a week or see an exhibition. I find it’s a great stimulus for learning and one of the privileges of living in London.

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JS What does the future hold for you?

TG We have recently launched Gosling Marine with the first ever collection of carbon fibre deck furniture for Superyachts.

I have the interior designers Pantomime that I’m playing the Dame in this October 28th to 1st November at Bloomsbury theatre – I’m playing a character called Donna Kebab. There are some amazing costumes designed by Jasper Conran, Vivienne Westwood and Zandra Rhodes.

There will be six performances to raise money for the NSPCC. Finally next year Thames and Hudson are publishing my third book on Design which we have all been busy working on for the last two years. u tgosling.com

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 12:19

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FINISHING

TOUCHES Looking to drastically change your home?

Take a look at these top companies to help you on your way

THOMAS COOMBES Thomas Coombes Interior Design produce timeless, elegant home interiors using the highest quality materials and expertise. They work closely with each client to create an entirely bespoke interior to suit each of their personal taste and lifestyles. Tel: 01372464736. 94 High Street, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9QJ thomascoombesinteriordesign.com

KINDLE STOVES

JOHN ROBERTS DESIGN John Roberts Design are focused on inspirational, contemporary and traditional kitchen and bathroom designs. They appreciate the importance of small touches and pay great attention to finishes, creating kitchens and bathrooms that carry the design quality through to every last detail. John Roberts Design, 38 Lower Richmond Road, SW15, 020 3535 6282; johnrobertsdesign.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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With the rocketing price of fuel, having a wood burner installed into the heart of your home is set to become more and more popular. Family run Kindle Stoves in Teddington supply and install stoves approved by DEFRA to burn in Smoke Controlled Areas and offer the latest in cleanburn, high efficiency stoves. To bring a living fire to the heart of your home call 0208 973 3995 or visit the showroom 10am - 5.30pm Mon - Fri and 10am - 5pm Sat; kindlestoves.co.uk

90 09/09/2014 11:27

ABSOLUTELY XXXXXXXXX//PROMOTION XXXXXXXX

LONDON FRONT GARDEN COMPANY

POË PROJECTS Poë Projects are a professional building company based in Battersea, South London, with an established work force and over 20 years experience in the building trade. Its focus on craftsmanship, attention to detail and personal service translate into quality, reliable and good value work. 549 Battersea Park Road SW11 3BL,020 7223 3286; poeprojects.co.uk

‘First impressions last...’ is property frontage specialists London Front Garden Company's mantra. As Director Chris Martin explains: “Before LFGC no-one was solely dedicated to restoring period property front gardens. From wrought iron fences and mosaic path tiles; LFGC can transform the front of your home.”

94 High St, Esher, Surrey KT10, 0208 947 7373; londonfrontgardencompany.co.uk

ELIZABETH-ANNE KENT For today’s urban living, from open plan to personal spaces, work and social living areas and individual rooms to complete homes, Elizabeth-Anne Kent has a flair for colour and style. Calling in high quality products from a wide range of UK and international suppliers, Elizabeth-Anne Kent creates distinctive interiors paying close attention to the customers personal needs with the help of her reliable team. SW15, 079 0573 7824 ; easkent1@btinternet.com

NO.9 ANTIQUES & INTERIORS

POTTER PERRIN With nearly 70 years of experience, Potter Perrin are one of London’s leading tile and bathroom retailers. Offering a high quality range of products, design and service, their aim is to provide an inspirational, enjoyable and stress-free experience for all clients. Visit the Tile Showroom at 142 St John's Hill, SW11.

The Bathroom Showroom is located at 412-416 Streatham High Road, SW16; potterperrin.com

A fantastic opportunity to acquire beautiful pieces of furniture and artifacts, sourced from far and wide to enrich your home.

Don’t miss No.9’s beautiful and exclusive new collection of Indian Diamonds – set in bracelets, earrings and pendants. Stunning and altogether mesmerising, you mustn’t take our word for it; pop in and see for yourself. 2 Hildreth Street, SW12, 020 8616 9686; no9antiques.com

KONIG KITCHENS Konig Kitchens design, supply and install contemporary kitchens, which are made in Germany, and traditional kitchens handmade in Kent at reasonable prices.

Each kitchen is designed by highly qualified, passionate designers to suit individuals lifestyles and deliver the kitchen of their dreams. 19 High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19, 020 8946 3539; konigkitchens.com

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:27

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MAKEOVER

BESPOKE BEAUTY

My Bespoke Room co-founder Diana Greenhalgh shows Absolutely around her Dulwich home Wo r d s G e o r g i e L a n e - G o d f r e y P h o t o g r a p h y L e a n n e D i xo n

W

ouldn’t doing up your home be so much easier if you could see how the finished product would look?

And then if that finished product hadn’t cost you an arm and a leg? Enter Diana Greenhalgh and Laura Simpson, the two entrepreneurial mums behind innovative interior design company My Bespoke Room. Offering personalised digital mood boards, the site uses your interior shots to help you create your ideal room at your ideal price tag.

It’s easy enough to use: simply fill in an online questionnaire, upload the images and pay the flat fee of £75.

There’s no hidden charges and no pushy sales tactics; you simply buy what you like from your own bespoke mood board.

And if you’re only after a couple of items, a ‘Snap & Source’ service is also on offer. This nifty idea lets you send in a photo of an item you like so that My Bespoke Room can source it for you,or alternatively find other similar items at a range of prices, saving you both time and money.

‘What we’ve found is that there’s a lot of people out there who, like us, don’t have a load of money to spend but want

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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LAURA SIMPSON (L) AND DIANA GREENHALGH (R)

nice homes,’ explains Diana. ‘They look through interiors magazines and find beautiful pieces, but they cost thousands of pounds.’ ‘Property in London is so expensive now that you want to spend your money on getting the best place that you can, but that often means that you don’t have much left to beautifully furnish your home,’ continues Laura.

‘But we knew how to put things together affordably, and that seed of an idea grew into My Bespoke Room.’

It might look vaguely familiar – the site was inspired by Pintrest, which both Diana and Laura first used to plan their weddings before decorating their homes.

‘It used to frustrate us that we couldn’t see where the products came from, which gave us the idea for the website,’ says

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HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT 01

Laura. As a result, My Bespoke Room allows you to swap items in and out of your moodboard from a personalised gallery of recommended products, letting you see exactly how a piece would work in situ. It’s a clever idea yet brilliantly easy to use.

But this sophisticated site didn’t happen overnight. It took a year of careful planning and development to launch – a process that proved rewarding for the two young mums. Having previously worked together in the past for L’Oréal, friends Diana and Laura were both looking for some new stimulation after having children. ‘We’d built up really good careers and to walk away from that completely… I don’t think either of us could have done it,’ admits Laura, ‘but My Bespoke Room has let us turn our passion into a business.’

02

03 01 / 02 MASTER BEDROOM The original marble fireplace was restored to retain the room’s period character.For a similar chair, try the James Wing Chair, from £1275, at The Creative Home Company.

03 SITTING ROOM Rich jewel tones and luxurious fabrics add warmth to the sitting room. Bluebell sofas, from £930, Sofa.com. Cushions, from £55, Designers Guild. Navy Tripod Floor Lamp in Natural Wood, £99, Made.com. Handmade Rustic Stroage Chest, £125, Etsy.

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:45

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Suppliers Of Top Brands Including Bisque, Vogue & Hotech

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09/09/2014 15:05

HOMES & INTERIORS / SPOTLIGHT

04

05

Building this business seems to have been made a lot easier thanks to their friendship; they bounce off each other exuberantly as they discuss their company. ‘We came to our first meeting with the same colour notebooks, filled with the same thoughts – we’re on the same wavelength,’ says Laura, smiling. ‘And we know each others' skill sets,’ adds Diana. ‘We compliment each other, like a marriage!’

These skills included a natural flair for interiors, which Diana has channelled into her home in Dulwich. Set against a backdrop of fresh white walls, her beautiful interiors speak for themselves, from the bold jewel tone sofas in the sitting room to the shabby chic furniture in the master bedroom. The overall effect is calm, elegant but also practical for family living.

The house itself is an airy Victorian terrace set in the leafy streets of North Dulwich. ‘It’s a great area, especially for families,’ explains Diana. ‘Not just because of the schools, but the neighbours – on our road there are 25 children under the age of four.

It’s great because there’s always someone around to pop to the playground in the park with or have a tea or a coffee.

04 KITCHEN/DINER A corner sofa creates a comfy snug in the kitchen. Stella Medium Righthand Chaise, from £1750, Sofa.com Kartell Bourgie Table Lamp, £203, John Lewis. 05 MASTER BEDROOM French-inspired furniture creates a feminine, boudoir feel in the bedroom.

Provencal Carved White French Dressing Table, £710, and Provencal Heart Chair, £239, The French Bedroom Company. Zenza Filigrain Oval Pendant Ceiling Lights, £255 each, John Lewis. Provencal Lit White Rattan Bed, £1295, The French Bedroom Company. Cole & Son Vivienne Westwood Insects Wallpaper, £70 per roll, John Lewis. 06 KITCHEN DINER Diana used a striking piece of art as her focal point for the dining area. Flynn Scoop Back Chairs, £129 each, Made.com. For a similar table, try the Frost Six Seater Dining Table, £425, John Lewis.

06

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:46

NORDIC STYLE

ASSIC SWEDISH C L ACSL S IC SW EDISH

INTERIORS

INTERIORS

Classic Swedish Interiors - Showroom in Wimbledon Village

Nordic Style 7 High Street Wimbledon Village London SW19 5DX 0208 947 7960

www.nordicstyle.com

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07

08

There’s a really lovely sense of community around here.’

And whilst a period property can pose problems, Diana was willing to take on the challenge. ‘I love this house because you feel like you’re living in history. My husband studied history at university so he’s really interested in it – when we found old newspapers in the fireplace he was so excited!’ Around the house original features abound, from the traditional cornicing on the ceilings to the period fireplace in the bedroom. As a result, Diana’s interior designs are classically contemporary.

‘When I design a room, I always make sure that there’s a focal point and then work around it,’ she explains. ‘For example in my dining area, I used a bold painting, picking out its purple colours to incorporate into the sofa area.’ Meanwhile the kitchen is a great example of how high

09

mybespokeroom.com 07 MASTER BEDROOM Vintage mirrored bedside tables add a touch of glamour to the room. Cole & Son Vivienne Westwood Insects Wallpaper, £70 per roll, John Lewis. Provencal Lit White Rattan Bed, £1295, The French Bedroom Company. Vintage bedside tables from The Old Cinema. 08 MASTER BATHROOM A chic chaise longue adds an elegant focal point to the bathroom.

The Bergere Rattan Chaise Longue, £579, from The Blue Goose, would be a good alternative. City Cows have similar cowhide rugs, from £219. 09 GEORGE’S ROOM Bunk beds with integrated shelving offer a clever, space-saving solution. Sling Bookcase with plain white canvas, £65, and Large Eden Playtable, £225, both The Great Little Trading Company. Kids Avenue Tam Tam White Bunk Bed, £498.75, Room To Grow. Walls painted in Sea Lavender Elements Emulsion, £35.50 for 2.5 litres, Fired Earth. KICO Yumbo Multi-coloured Wooden Aeroplane Pendant, £28.78, Amazon.

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street and high end can be combined to create affordable luxury. ‘The kitchen is actually from Ikea,’ reveals Diana, ‘but I ordered the granite to create my own bespoke work surfaces so it still looks very high end, even though the price tag was a lot more reasonable.’

These rules also apply to the furniture, where Diana has mixed and matched one-off pieces with high street purchases: ‘I love the Old Cinema in Chiswick for beautiful antiques and vintage items, and Mrs Robinson on Lordship Lane always has really cool, interesting finishing touches.’ Meanwhile, Laura recommends neutral walls as a backdrop whilst you find your interior inspiration. ‘If you start with a white box and you live in it for a bit, you see where the light falls, how dark a room gets, where you naturally want to sit or where a future wall could be,’ she explains.

‘It’s much better to live somewhere for a while before you make any decisions.’

But when the time does come to make those decisions, Laura and Diana are waiting, ready to help. ‘Surfing the internet, looking for perfect items for people’s homes – it just feels like our fun time,’ laughs Diana. ‘It’s easy to forget that it’s work.’ u

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:46

able in your area!

New spaces avail . Get in touch to find out more!

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• Acres of private fenced fields • Constant supervision • Heated indoor areas • Swimming pools • Agility course • Socialisation

Window shopping Beautiful new timber windows

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www.ayrtonbespoke.com Telephone 020 8877 8920 Email enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD

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09/09/2014 15:08

HOMES & INTERIORS / GARDENING NOTES

OU T OF OF F ICE

JohnLewis Be inspired to turn your humble garden shed into something spectacular with John Lewis’ ‘Cool Country’ AW14 home collection. johnlewis.com

The Insider R o bbi e Hon e y g iv e s h i s t op t ip fo r t h e m o n t h

ALLIUM ‘G l ob e a s t er’

s summer slips away and the mellowness of autumn takes hold, I take to the garden and look to the year ahead to figure out what to plant for next spring and summer. A plant I am particularly taken by this month is Allium ‘Globeaster’.

This bold summer flower, also known as an ornamental onion, blooms with giant sphere shaped flowers on top of strong vertical stems. The striking spheres are made up of masses of tiny lilac flowers, and once these blooms fade, the skeleton of the flower is striking and provides interest in the garden through the winter months.

Plant Allium bulbs in the autumn and in full sun. Dig holes 6 inches deep for each bulb and plant them 6 inches apart. Once covered in soil press the earth firmly around each bulb to settle it in. ◆

A

GARDEN NOTES The best products, furniture and flowers for the garden

JOIN THE FOLD Another-Studio

These contemporary, architectureinspired vases are cleverly engineered from a single sheet of stainless steel, with a simple fold-and-lock technique that eliminates the need for adhesives or soldering. They look fab too. Available in three sizes, prices start from £30; another-studio.com

● Robbie holds floristry classes in Vauxhall’s New Covent Garden; robbiehoney.com

WINTER WARMER

editor’s

PICK

Coxandcox

Keep warm around one of Cox & Cox’s brazier fire burners. The sandblast finish is rustic, but darkens with each use to enhance its outdoor appearance. £80, coxandcox.co.uk

Occa-Home

Sophie Conran's charming duck egg blue watering can is undeniably practical but will look just as lovely sat on your windowsill. £14.95; occa-home.co.uk

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TRUE BLUE

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:17

The Falcons School for Girls Independent School for Girls aged 3-11 years

Achieve Academic Excellence ‘London’s Most Creative Preparatory School’

Come and visit us in our new home in Putney for our Open Day on Saturday 11th October 2014 from 10am – 12pm.

www.falconsgirls.co.uk

11 Woodborough Road, Putney, SW15 6PY Telephone: 020 8992 5189 Email admin@falconsgirls.co.uk

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> KIDS NOTES

p. 102

GREAT EXPECTAIONS

p. 107

PUFFED UP Luxury online retailer, Alex and Alexa, stock the most stylish kidswear from Burberry to Boss. We love this electric blue Fendi puffa with hooded fur trim so much we wish they did it for adults. Fendi puffer, ÂŁ506, alexandalexa.com

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 12:01

Kids

10 of the best

KIDS PRODUCTS

CONFIDENTIAL Burberry’s new kids collection, the best backpacks and plenty of pretty accessories for little ones

BECKY & LOLO

Wall Sticker, prices vary; beckyandlolo.co.uk

Wo r d s M O L L I E L I N C O L N

HELEN DARDIK BABY K

Floral Dress, From £24; mothercare.com

Girl Plate, £6; thekidwho.eu

ALESSI

Cico Egg Cup, £11.95; store.alessi.com

MONSOON

AW14 clothing; monsoon.co.uk

PUNKIN PATCH

Split Chest of Drawers, £8,880; punkinpatch.co.uk

Kid Rock Burberry

Burberry's new AW14 Collection for kids is effortlessly Brit cool, think mini trench and duffle coats, sneakers and drain pipe jeans.

121 Regent Street, W1, 020 7806 8904; burberry.com

WINGREEN

Pirate Shack Playhouse, £200; wingreen.co.uk

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editor’s

BLAST OFF

PICK

Lifetime

Indulge your children's fascination with space travel and let them sleep in their very own rocket ship. Designed by Lifetime, the bed includes a space shuttle canopy. You can also get personalised extras such as LED lighting and astronaut bedding. £1,595; cuckooland.com

Backpacks we love

01

02

PONY CLUB Hibou Home

A company dedicated to decorating children's walls, Hibou Home have released a new selection of charming wallpapers. This pink pony wall paper is perfect for any young budding equestrian. POA. hibouhome.com

03

04

05

LEARN TO DRAW Aurina

1. PAPERCHASE Snackpackers Backpack, £20; paperchase.co.uk 2. BECKY & LOLO Space Rocket Backpack, £25; beckyandlolo.co.uk 3. ACCESSORIZE Sweet Backpack, £35; uk.accessorize.com 4. CATH KIDSTON Garden Ditzy Backpack, £45 cathkidston.com 5. PEANUT & PIP Fox Zoo Backpack, £20.95; peanutandpip.com

New from children's retailer, Aurina, is this sweet doodlematt.

Choose from a giraffe or elephant border and let your little ones scribble their way to artistic stardom. £22.95 each; aurina.co.uk

NEXT

Two-Pack Winnie the Pooh Bodysuits, £10; next.co.uk

OWL & PUSSYCAT Lost Lanes

The Lost Lanes unite more than 150 designers to supply wonderful items for children.

We love this nostaglic owl and pussycat fabric wall sticker, which is easy to apply and remove. £26. thelostlanes.com

JOHN LEWIS

Pony 3D cushion, £15; johnlewis.com

PAPERCHASE

Dreamscape Stationary Set, £5.50; paperchase.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 10:02

Nursery for children aged 3 to 4.

Welcoming children of all faiths and denominations

The Ursuline Preparatory School Wimbledon An Independent Catholic School for Girls aged 4 to 11 and Co-educational Nursery for children aged 3 to 4. Welcoming children of all faiths and denominations “The quality of the pupils’ achievements and learning is excellent” Independent Schools Inspectorate, June 2014 New Facilities for Reception and Nursery opening prior to Spring Term 2015. Personal Tours are held weekly, and families view in small groups. To arrange a tour please contact our Admissions Secretary

advertA4-O.pdf

The Ursuline Preparatory School, 18 The Downs, Wimbledon, SW20 8HR

The Ursuline Preparatory School

Tel: 020 8947 0859

Wimbledon

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The Ursuline Preparatory School, 18 The Downs, Wimbledon, SW20 8HR Tel: 020 8947 0859

www.ursuline-prep.merton.sch.uk

admissions@wups.co.uk

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KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

MANNERS DO MATTER When the editor of Tatler said that politeness and respect are as important as good grades, her comments struck a chord Wo r d s A M A N D A C O N S TA N C E

G

ood manners are as important as good grades when it comes to forging a successful career. So Kate Reardon, editor of society bible Tatler, told a group of teenage girls this year.

In a speech at Westonbirt School (Gloucestershire), Reardon said: ‘It doesn't matter how many A-levels you have, what kind of a degree you have, if you have good manners, people will like you... if they like you they will help you.

I'm not talking about using the right spoon for soup or eating asparagus with your left hand. I'm talking about… making people you interact with feel valued.’

Her comments prompted a storm in a media teacup; they were judged ‘anti-feminist’ but among sniping about Reardon’s own privileged upbringing (Bute House, Cheltenham Ladies' College, Stowe) there was also acknowledgement that she had raised an important issue.

Reardon’s speech comes amid growing concerns that Generation Text are not fit for purpose in the working world. School leavers may have top-notch computing skills but seem to lack some of the basic social skills such as good manners and the ability to hold a conversation.

In the report by Barclays earlier this year, personal presentation, punctuality and decent manners were all highlighted as problems for some young people.

43% of business leaders said young people failed to understand when it was appropriate to use a mobile phone or when to take a break or for how long.

A worrying 55% said school leavers were unable to manage conversations properly when calling clients or suppliers.

Employers and parents will nod in

GENERATION text are not FIT FOR PURPOSE in the WORKING WORLD recognition at Reardon’s comments.

Commenting on Reardon’s speech in the The Daily Telegraph, Rowan Pelling said: ‘When I ran a publishing business, I blackballed any job applicant too entitled or offhand to show consideration for others. I despaired of the workexperience graduate with a First and editorship of the student paper... who was too grand to make tea, photocopy or ask for advice, despite his atrocious typos.’

Pelling adds that she knows a financier who conducts all his interviews over lunch to see if candidates have table manners and are capable of conversation beyond football and celebrity. ‘No one wants to spend two thirds of their day surrounded by uncouth braggarts.’ Anthony Seldon, the pioneering head of Wellington College, has

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already called for schools to hold lessons in manners, punctuality and tidiness. And An all-party Parliamentary Group on Social Mobility said earlier this year that schools need to place greater emphasis on the ‘soft skills’ such as resilience, empathy and selfcontrol. It recommended giving all pupils a school-leaving certificate to mark out their achievements in extra-curricular activities and work experience.

In other words, there is a recognition that good, old-fashioned ‘character building’ needs to find its way back onto the curriculum, particularly in state schools where it has often given way to a relentless academic curriculum.

In a report earlier this year, the Confederation of British Industry spoke of its concern that ‘schools were turning into exam factories... churning out young people who are not sufficiently prepared for life outside the school.’ Applauding the changes to the A-level system, the CBI said the business world wants ‘young people who have been academically stretched, but who also display a set of behaviours and attitudes that are vital for success, including determination, optimism and emotional intelligence.’

Reardon has her own tips for success.

She urged the Westonbirt girls, ‘Never hide behind a computer or mobile phone’ and to understand the importance of eye contact. She also told them to use confident self-expression, to rigorously research any prospective company before being interviewed and to do as much work experience as possible. And above all: ‘Never underestimate the value of good manners. I can count on one hand the number of people who wrote me a thank you letter after having an interview and I gave almost all of them a job.’ ◆

OCTOBER 2014

09/09/2014 11:54

DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is

Open Days September 30th (7pm) October 22nd (9.30am)

a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and

November 7th/12th (9.30am/9.30am)

discovery, laughter and friendship.

November 19th/28th (7pm/9.30am)

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com

The new independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

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@kewhouseschool

03/09/2014 12:46

KIDS & EDUCATION / MUM-TO-BE

GREAT EXPECTATIONS

MATERNITY WEAR FROM KEUNGZAI; KEUNGZAI.COM

A new regular column tracking the highs and lows of pregnancy from the first inkling to the final push Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N

S

o you found out: that’s the first step. A couple of faint lines on a plastic indicator, a midnight dash to the 24-hour Tesco to buy more tests (just to be sure) – and suddenly everything has changed. If it’s your second, third, fourth child, you know what you’re in for; if it’s your first, the questions start right about… now.

The first thing to do is speak to your GP, who can confirm the happy news with a blood test and give you initial advice – stopping smoking is a given, but who ever paused to consider that everyday, over-thecounter medicines are now off the cards? The humble paracetamol isn’t totally forbidden, but generally the advice is to stay pure as far as you can. And if you’re one of the unfortunate majority who will suffer from morning sickness, pretty soon you might be having headaches that would try the patience of a saint. If so, a quick call to your community midwife can help reassure you – as can putting your feet up and forgetting about your responsibilities for a while. Of course, by the time your twelve-week scan

arrives (and yes, the interim may feel like the longest few weeks of your life), most women find the nausea of the first trimester has started to fade away. The baby in your belly is now around 5cm in length – but already has a brain, face, arms, legs… enough stuff, basically, to make him or her actually look like a real baby when seen on-screen.

A milestone, to be sure.

The key now is to relax when necessary, look after yourself and keep taking the pregnancy vitamin supplements recommended by the medicos. Your tummy is just starting to fill out and your curves may be, well, curvier – so embrace it, enjoy it and by all means splurge a little on some maternity clothes. (A maternity bra might soon be your new best friend.) And start doing your research into what you’ll need when baby finally arrives. We’ll be covering some of this in more depth in the coming months, but it’s worth noting that choosing buggies, high chairs and car seats can require more research than buying a new car. Still, with your feet up and your partner doing the chores for once, you should have a bit of extra browsing time… 

THE KEY IS TO RELAX and take care of YOURSELF

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 13:40

Raynes Park H

World Class Healthcare n

T h e q p i e

C b a

St. Anthony’s Hospital is now operating a brand new outpatient consulting suite in the purpose built Raynes Park Health Centre.

This allows us to hold 8 consulting rooms in addition to the 12 already located at St. Anthony’s in North Cheam. Patients in surrounding neighbourhoods such as Wimbledon, New Malden, Kingston and Raynes Park can now benefit from the excellent levels of care associated with the hospital in a location more convenient to them.

St Anthony’s Hospital, North Cheam, Surrey SM3 9DW.

www.stanthonys.org.uk

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Health Centre

e now at your doorstep The centre was built specifically with healthcare in mind, lending a calm environment for the provision of high quality medical services; offering patients the best of modern medicine in the caring and welcoming nature expected of St Anthony’s.

Clinics are held Monday – Saturday by a number of top consultants from a wide range of medical specialities.

To give immediacy of service and increased convenience to the patient, we will also be providing ECG and blood testing services at Raynes Park, with a range of outpatient diagnostic tests available on-site.

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Raynes Park Station

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Bookings: 020 8099 2222 Enquiries: 020 8099 2020 Email: raynespark@stanthonys.org.uk

Raynes Park Health Centre

DUR

Raynes Park Health Centre is situated on the one-way system of Lambton Road, within 100 yards of Raynes Park train station. There is a bus-stop directly outside the centre and public parking is also available nearby.

TO

How to reach us

Get back to being you, faster The best of private healthcare at affordable prices We deliver fast treatment for a range of orthopaedic conditions, from hip replacements and spinal surgery, to arthritis and sports injuries. As a self-funding patient you have access to state of the art imaging and diagnostic services, leading surgeons, physicians, physiotherapists and orthotists, to help you every step of the way‌ all at highly competitive prices.

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09/09/2014 15:14

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

HOME FROM HOME

An active, independent lifestyle isn’t something usually associated with care homes. However, one local care home is working hard to change this view.

ew House, on Spencer Hill Road in Wimbledon, is K focused on relationshipcentred care, which means that each individuals needs are the most important part of the care. Customer Relationship Manager, Jim Brownjohn, explains “We build a relationship with every resident in order to truly connect with their unique personal histories and personalities.” This relationship allows the team to really understand each individual

resident: their likes, dislikes, what makes them happy or sad, and where they need support in their daily lives.

The home recognises the need for different activities and entertainment to suit each residents personal tastes and interests. By listening to each resident’s life story, the home ensures that each of the residents watch their favourite TV programme, listen to their favourite radio station or even pop out for a weekly coffee morning at the church hall.

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The home underwent a recent refurbishment and has introduced a new start-of-the-art cinema, therapy room and large café area. The new look was unveiled to relatives, friends and guests at the recent National Care Home Open Day. The Care Quality Commission’s Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care, Andrea Sutcliffe, was guest of honour for the day and had a great day visiting one of London’s finest care homes.

Ms Sutcliffe said, “I had an absolute ball visiting Kew House, joining in some really fun activities, speaking to as many people as I could and learning about some pretty terrific life stories. Making sure services are delivered in a way that are safe, caring, effective, responsive and well-led is not a one-off occasion. It is embedded in the every-day.”

The home is open to visitors at any time, so pop in for a coffee and a slice of homemade cake in the café and see for yourself what makes Kew House a care home with a difference. u 58 Spencer Hill, SW19; 020 8971 0190; hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 12:27

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With over 35 years’ experience and 50 branches across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you.

Our dedicated West London branches include • Bayswater • Holland Park

Baytree Road, SW2

£1,100,000 Freehold

A lovingly renovated three bedroom family house for sale situated on this highly desirable quiet residential road only moments from the fashionable Brixton Village and Brixton tube station. This stylish property boasts a breath taking extended kitchen dining room and the property is finished to an impeccable standard throughout.

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward, Clapham kfh.co.uk

020 8675 5436 KFH MASTER brand adverts_July-August.indd 2

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:00

NO ONE VIEWS CLAPHAM LIKE SIMON

Meet Simon Hardie who runs our Clapham sales office. Based close to Clapham Common and with 9 years property experience, Simon knows the area intimately. If you are selling a house or flat and would like a knowledgeable view of the market, Simon is here to help.

Sales & Lettings 020 3151 6240

johndwood.co.uk/hardie

JDW.indd 1 JDW6988 Absolutely SW October14 1

05/09/2014 04/09/2014 09:31 16:42

NO ONE UNDERSTANDS WANDSWORTH LIKE ELLA

Meet Ella Cockerton who runs our Wandsworth Sales office. After 25 years living and working in Wandsworth, Ella has a thorough understanding of the area and has seen it all when it comes to the local property market. If you would like a well-informed view of the market, Ella is here to help.

Sales & Lettings 020 3151 6344

johndwood.co.uk/ella

JDW.indd 2 JDW6988 Absolutely SW October14 2

05/09/2014 04/09/2014 09:31 16:42

NO ONE SELLS SOUTHFIELDS LIKE JONATHAN

Meet Jonathan Loney who runs our Southfields Sales office. With 20 years in the property industry, Jonathan knows the area intimately. With an immense appreciation of the area’s nuances, if you would like to know more about our sales success, Jonathan is here to help.

Sales & Lettings 020 3151 6317

johndwood.co.uk/jonathan

JDW.indd 3 JDW6988 Absolutely SW October14 3

05/09/2014 04/09/2014 09:31 16:46

ALBANY MANSIONS, SW11 Representing one of only a handful of flats in Battersea which have been converted laterally, this extremely well presented apartment in Albany Mansions. Approx. 1,883 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 4 bedrooms, bathroom, reception room, balcony.

Freehold Share Guide Price £2,850,000

FOXMORE STREET, SW11 Situated close to Battersea Park and located within the Conservation Area, this is a well proportioned and presented house, retaining many of its original period features. The property has been beautifully decorated throughout. Approx. 2,565 sq ft. Energy Rating: D. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, garden.

Freehold Guide Price £2,400,000 SOLD

Albert Bridge Road, SW11

SOLD

Guide £3,500,000 Shuttleworth Road, SW11

SOLD

Guide £1,150,000 Prince of Wales Drive, SW11

BATTERSEA 020 7887 2253 battersea@johndwood.co.uk

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SOLD

Guide £700,000 Albany Mansions, SW11

Guide £1,250,000

johndwood.co.uk

05/09/2014 04/09/2014 09:31 16:42

Bennerley Road

£1,595,000 Freehold

This beautifully presented Victorian house has been completely refurbished by the current owners to an extremely high standard.

The house has been extended on the ground floor into the side return and into the loft space. The interior has been tastefully finished with excellent quality materials and fittings throughout.

The property still retains many of its period features and there is an excellent sense of light and space throughout.

• Five double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen/ dining room • Family bathroom • En suite bathroom • Ensuite shower room • Separate wc • Cellar / Utility room • South facing garden

Kyrle Road

£1,525,000 Freehold

Positioned on this sought after residential street is this superb five bedroomed Victorian house. The property has been extended on the ground floor into the side return and on the top floor into the loft space and now measures just shy of 2000 square feet.

Whilst the property has undergone significant structural changes it does still retain lots of its original features and charm.

• Five double bedrooms • Double reception room • Kitchen Family room • Shower room • Family bathroom • Cellar • West facing garden

RAMPTON BASELEY.indd 2

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ON WHITE

ON GREEN

LONDON

RAMPTON BASELE Y Amner Road

131 Northcote Road, London, SW11 6PS, T 020 7228 5111 E batterseal@ramptonbaseley.com www.ramptonbaseley.com

Rampton and Baseley Ltd. Registered office as above. Registered in England and Wales. Company Registr

£895 Per Week

RAMPTON BASELE Y

An extremely attractive end of terrace family house on this quiet residential street between the commons. Bright and airy double reception room with wooden floors and a superb kitchen/ breakfast room that has been extended into the side return.

• Double reception room • Kitchen/breakfast room • Four double bedrooms • Family bathroom • Large shower room • Loft • Cellar • Garden • Unfurnished

Queenstown Road

£350 Per Week

A brand newly refurbished one bedroom flat, in a quiet cobbled mews, off Queenstown Road. Bright open plan kitchen/ reception room with wooden floors which opens out onto a paved patio area, smart bathroom with overhead shower and a double bedroom with built in wardrobes. The flat is presented in excellent order throughout and available immediately.

• Double bedroom • Open plan kitchen/reception room • Bathroom • Patio • Unfurnished

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04/09/2014 13:53

Living the Dream The MOST LUXURIOUSLY appointed PROPERTIES on the market

Ashburnham Road, SW1 £3,033 Per Month A beautifully presented ground floor three bedroom apartment set within a luxurious mansion block, located within walking distance of the local amenities of Chelsea.

This property offers lovely communal gardens, off street parking, period features throughout, three good size bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious living room with real wood flooring and a modern kitchen.

Chamberland Residential 020 8704 1313; chamberlandres.co.uk

Macaulay Road, SW4

£5,750,000 Freehold

A superb property, which is ideal for both entertaining and family life.

Stuart Road, SW1 £1,250,000

This five bedroom property boasts tremendous volume with a double height ceiling in the main reception room that measures approximately 36 ft x 35 ft.

This four bedroom property has recently undergone a major works programme and offers a wonderful family home finished to an exacting standard.

Providing a high level of accommodation, the ground floor of the reception space is cleverly designed to maximise space and light, with defined living, dining and kitchen areas, with a useful separate utility room and cloakroom.

Rampton Baseley 020 7228 5111; ramptonbaseley.com

John D Wood & Co., Southfields 020 8870 8811; johndwood.co.uk

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122 08/09/2014 16:04

PROPERTY | LIVING THE DREAM

UP YOUR STREET

ABSOLUTELY SW11 JAMES CASTLEMAN

Manager at Featherstone Leigh Battersea 020 7228 2278; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Favourite restaurant: The Santa Maria Del Sur on Queenstown Road is hands down my favourite place to eat in Battersea –an Argentine Grill that do the most fantastic steaks.

Best kept secret: Not enough people know about the Doodle Bar on Park Gate Road. It’s a bar full of games, where you can doodle on the

Denmark Road, SW19 £1,600,000 Freehold

walls, play ping pong and eat street food on the outside ‘beach’ area.

A charming period cottage, beautifully refurbished to a high specification, and situated in a prime village location. Set over three floors, the deceptively spacious home includes 2/3 bedrooms, excellent open-plan living space and a decked garden.

Homeowner, Alison Pothier, decided to remodel her already enchanting wisteria-fronted cottage in Wimbledon Village, she wanted one thing she just couldn’t find on the high street … a property built with the right energy and intention from the ground up. Promoting light, vibration and sacred geometry, Alison transformed her cottage into a positively healthy home. The home includes foundations infused with natural gemstones (each with their own intention), televisions hidden to reduce electromagnetic waves, extra windows with walls removed to promote light and a pyramid skylight seated atop an octagonal ceiling under which rose quartz and Herkimer diamonds have been rolled into the foundation.

Finest cocktail: The Sugar Cane Cocktail Bar does a mean Rum Punch – it’s just a couple of doors down from our office, so we often pop in for a couple on a Friday!

An exceptional Property: Mysore Road, Battersea, £1,100,000 Located on one of Battersea’s premier roads, is this 3 bedroom un-extended family home.

Mysore Road, Battersea, £1,100,000

Hamptons International, Wimbledon 020 8946 0081; hamptons.co.uk

Boundaries Road, SW12 P.O.A. Freehold Situated close to both Wandsworth Common and Balham, this immaculately presented, bright and spacious three storey Victorian family house offers very well-balanced living and entertaining space including four lovely double bedrooms and a pretty rear garden.

Rymer Irens, Nightingale Lane 020 8045 8989; rymer-irens.com

PRIME LOCATION.COM

Devereux Road, SW11 £2,375,000 Freehold

SUGGESTS

This substantial Victorian double-fronted property (currently arranged as two flats) has existing planning consent for large loft, full basement and rear ground floor extensions to create an outstanding property of approx. 3750 square feet. It has a wide, square and very sunny south-west facing garden and is located very close to the highly popular Honeywell School

If you are looking for the perfect home, PrimeLocation has over one million properties currently for sale or rent across the UK from all the leading estate agents and homebuilders.

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John Thorogood 020 7228 7474; john-thorogood.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:05

Completely at home in SouthWest London.

Our services Sales and Lettings Property Management Block Management Property Solicitors Chartered Surveyors Financial Services Visit kfh.co.uk

With a network of 14 branches in South West London and over 50 across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you.

Our dedicated South West London branches include • Balham • Earlsfield • Battersea • Putney Hill • Battersea Park • Southfields • Clapham • West Putney • Clapham Common • Wimbledon

KFH.indd 1 brand adverts_September October.indd 7 KFH MASTER

05/09/2014 09:35 14:41 24/07/2014

Parkthorne Road, Balham, SW12 Guide price £1,100,000 Balham 020 8675 1123 Email sba@kfh.co.uk

KFH.indd 10.14 KFH 2 Absolutely Clapham.indd 2

A stunning semi detached, four bedroom house offering over 2,000 sq ft of beautifully presented accommodation and a delightful garden.

This well presented accommodation includes two reception rooms, superb extended kitchen/dining room with folding doors onto the garden, utility room, two bathrooms, dressing room and off street parking.

• • • • • • • • • •

Two large reception rooms Extended kitchen/diner Utility room Four bedrooms Two bathrooms Dressing room Large garden Parking Freehold EPC rating D

14:42 05/09/2014 09:21

Battersea Bridge Road, Battersea, SW11 £750,000 Battersea Park 020 7924 1944 Email sbp@kfh.co.uk

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A well presented and spacious two bedroom apartment arranged over the first floor of this highly desirable modern development. This stunning property benefits from an abundance of natural light and is situated within close proximity to Battersea Park and the River Thames.

• Excellent condition • Large roof terrace • Two stylish bathrooms • • • • • •

(one en suite) Modern fitted kitchen Underground parking Easy access to Kings Road Close to Clapham Junction Leasehold EPC rating C

14:42 05/09/2014 09:21

West Hill, Putney, SW15 £650,000 Putney Hill 020 8780 0033 Email sph@kfh.co.uk

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A beautifully presented two double bedroom apartment set within an imposing, detached period residence.

Forest Lodge forms part of the Whitelands Park development and is located a short walk to East Putney tube station. There is a residents gym and library located in the Giles Gilbert Scott building.

• • • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms 16ft reception room Separate kitchen 917 sq ft of accommodation Allocated parking Residents gym and library Shared freehold EPC rating E

14:43 05/09/2014 09:22

Lavenham Road, Southfields, SW18 £1,200,000 Southfields 020 8871 9655 Email ssf@kfh.co.uk

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A spacious mid terraced property offering 1,573 sq ft of accommodation, situated on a popular residential road on the Southfields Grid.

This property is ideally located for the recreational facilities of Wimbledon Park, Southfields underground station and the local restaurants and shops in Southfields.

• • • • • • • • •

Four double bedrooms Open plan living Modern fitted kitchen Two bathrooms Ground floor WC South facing garden No chain Freehold EPC rating D

14:43 05/09/2014 09:22

Chestnut Grove, Balham, SW12 £3,510 pcm Balham 020 8675 3639 Email lbc@kfh.co.uk

An exceptional four bedroom house located in central Balham. The house is immaculately presented and is ideal for a family or corporate tenant.

• • • • • • • •

Four double bedrooms Large eat in kitchen Double reception room Bespoke fittings throughout Large private garden Excellent transport links Unfurnished EPC rating E

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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14:43 05/09/2014 09:22

Brewhouse Lane, Putney, SW15 £3,495 pcm Putney 020 8785 3433 Email lph@kfh.co.uk

A well presented three bedroom apartment situated in the prestigious Putney Wharf Tower. This property boasts spectacular and far reaching views over the River Thames and benefits from concierge and gymnasium.

• Luxury 11th floor apartment • Three bedrooms • Large open plan kitchen • • • • •

and reception room Three bathrooms Private balcony Secure development with use of gym Furnished EPC rating C

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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14:43 05/09/2014 09:23

PROPERTY | ASK THE EXPERT

Ask the Sales Experts

Our panel of PROFESSIONALS give you the edge in the property market

1. What factors go into your valuation?

Four Key Factors go into my valuations: - Sold prices on comparable properties in the area.

- Any extension work or improvement the current owners have done.

- Whether the property is leasehold or freehold. If a property is leasehold I take the remaining lease into consideration.

- Factors outside the owner’s control, such as development plans for the area.

2. How can you help me achieve my asking price?

A

sking prices vary enormously - thanks to some dubious ‘valuing’. So make sure you consult a knowledgeable agent, not just an enthusiastic one. Pre-sale advice on timing and presentation also helps but, in the end, obtaining the best price is about finding and understanding the right buyers. To find them, most agents advertise in the same places, but John Thorogood’s HD films reach even overseas buyers, who can view your home

virtually. But knowing your property intimately and paying close attention to buyers' requirements is the key. Because once you've found them just the right place, they won't want to lose it.

3. How important is it to have a full survey completed?

T

he best advice is always to get a full survey, I would however recommend having a good chat with your surveyor before instructing them to see if they will be able to provide a detailed report or are more likely to err on the side of disclaimers.

A surveyor who is experienced and thorough will certainly save you buying a home with unexpected issues.

4. Is the sales market slowing down?

T

he number of buyers registering has decreased, however the buyers registering seem very committed, therefore there isn’t such a noticeable downturn. A combination of the Mortgage Market

Review, relentless media nonsense about a supposed “bubble” in London, threats of interest rate rises and a general election next year have no doubt dampened the confidence of some buyers. Whilst there are a few motivated sellers who have accepted lower offers than they might have done previously, there are still plenty of excellent prices being achieved as many buyers still have great confidence that London property will ultimately always remain a safe investment, and more importantly a great place to call home.

5. How long does the average sale take to complete?

A

n average sale takes 8 weeks at the moment, quicker if you are selling a freehold house.

The speed of a deal can be helped by the way a deal is set up and managed. We add timescales to all of the paperwork sent out and spend at least two hours a day calling all parties and helping the process though. If a deal is left to its own devices, it is likely to go through very slowly, if there is an issue we will indentify it and work to rectify it.

CONTACT

1. JAMES CASTLEMAN

Sales Manager of Featherstone Leigh, Battersea 020 7228 2278; featherstoneleigh.co.uk

4. MARK HUTTON

2. AUSTIN THOROGOOD

Director at John Thorogood 020 7228 7474; john-thorogood.co.uk

Manager of Douglas & Gordon, Battersea Park Sales 020 7720 8077; douglasandgordon.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

ASK THE EXPERT.indd 1

3. JUSTIN DIBBEN

Branch Manager of Jacksons, Clapham 020 8875 7995; jacksonsestateagents.com

5. TIM PHILLIPS

Associate Director Sales of Chestertons, Battersea 020 7924 4400; chestertons.com

131

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:12

Local know-how. Better results.

Askew Road

Battersea

Campden

Earls Court

Hammersmith

Little Venice

Notting Hill

Balham

Bishops Park

Chelsea

East Sheen

Holland Park

Marylebone

Pimlico & Westminster

Barnes

Brook Green

Clapham

Fulham

Kensington

North Kensington

South Kensington

St John’s Hill SW11 £1,275,000 This charming three-bedroom house provides stunning living space and has been refurbished to an exceedingly high specification throughout. The ground floor provides a semi open plan study/reception room, a utility room and an extended kitchen/dining area leading out to a south facing garden. Located close to Clapham Junction and the local shops, bars and restaurants of St. Johns Hill and Northcote Road. Freehold. EPC=C. Joint Sole Agents.

BATTERSEA: 020 7228 9292 sales.bat@marshandparsons.co.uk

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Follow us on Twitter: @marshandparsons

Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/marshandparsons

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

SALES

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

Cavendish Road SW12 ÂŁ1,100,000 A stunning house is presented in beautiful condition throughout and benefits from a south west facing garden. The accommodation includes a separate reception room a dining room and a fitted kitchen with utility room and bi-folding doors leading out to the facing garden. The upper floors comprise a master bedroom, three further double bedrooms (one en suite), an office and a family bathroom. Freehold. EPC=D. Sole Agents BALHAM: 020 8673 4377 sales.bal@marshandparsons.co.uk

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North Barnes Kew

Barnes East Sheen

Chelsea

Battersea Park

Fulham Munster Road Fulham Road Fulham New Kings Road Putney

Battersea

CHESTERTONS BATTERSEA PARK OPENING SOON Chestertons is the London and international residential property specialist. We know our business and our markets like no one else and every year help thousands of people buy, sell, let, rent and manage their homes and investments.

Our new Battersea Park office will be our 11th in South West London.

If you are thinking about selling or letting your property, contact us now to arrange a valuation.

Chestertons Battersea Park

59 Battersea Bridge Road, London, SW11 3AU 020 8104 2024 batterseapark@chestertons.com

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Centurion Building

£1,250 per week

Chelsea Bridge Wharf SW8

A spacious river facing apartment, consisting of a large reception, dining room & open plan kitchen. There are 2 double bedrooms, walk in wardrobe & en-suite bathroom & an additional 2 bathrooms. Features include a magic wall which positions to offer an additional bedroom or study & full length balcony offering 180 degree views of the River Thames. Chelsea Bridge Wharf has 24 hour concierge, secure parking & is ideal for access to Chelsea & Battersea & within easy reach of Vauxhall.

EPC pending

Additional charges apply. Administration: £222 (VAT included).

References per tenant: £42 (VAT included)

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Battersea Lettings

020 7298 5630 lettings.battersearise@chestertons.com

chestertons.com 01/09/2014 12:36

Shelgate Road

Battersea SW11

A fine example of a natural 3 storey period home situated ‘between the Commons’. This super home boasts 4 bedrooms, an abundance of original features throughout & has potential to extend to the side, rear & loft subject to planning. Shelgate Road runs off the popular Northcote Road with its wonderful shops, restaurants & market. It is situated close to the excellent facilities on both Wandsworth & Clapham Commons as well as the transport at Clapham Junction. The area is further renowned for its many excellent schools.

EPC rating E

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£1,450,000 freehold

Battersea

020 7924 4400 sales.battersearise@chestertons.com

01/09/2014 12:36

Prince of Wales Drive

Battersea Park SW11

A superb top floor, 1 bedroom flat directly opposite Battersea Park. Boasting superb natural light, hallway perfect for dining & entertaining, ample built in storage, separate kitchen & bathroom.

Prince of Wales Mansions is located at the eastern end of Prince of Wales Drive, only 0.2 miles from Battersea Park & 0.3 miles from Queenstown Road train station, which provide a regular service to Victoria & Waterloo. There are a number of local bus routes in the area & easy access over the river to Sloane Square.

EPC rating E

ÂŁ599,950 share of freehold

Battersea

020 7924 4400 sales.battersearise@chestertons.com

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PROPERTY | PRIME PURCHASE

Prime Purchase MARKET COMMENT

George Franks on The London Office

T

he London Office was set up in 1992 to act on behalf of country agents to promote their clients' properties to a wider audience. They act for 38 independent firms of chartered surveyors and estate agents, with 211 offices specialising in the sale, purchase, rental and management of all types of country and London properties from Scotland to Cornwall to Kent. You have probably read the above paragraph and thought to yourself ‘what on earth has that got to do with Douglas & Gordon in London?’ Well, the fact is that Douglas & Gordon are the London based member of The London Office.

So many London estate agents have no connection at all with other parts of the country in which we live, and therefore find it hard to give you a national perspective, or even some local knowledge of a particular village in the middle of Hertfordshire, for example.

Being a member of this group of esteemed property professionals, gives us the edge over so many other estate agents, because we really can find out, on your behalf, about very targeted areas of the country that you might very well want to live. On the flipside, all these 211 offices constantly provide a flow of tenants and purchasers to us who want to take advantage of the London property market. So if you are considering moving to the country, we genuinely can put you in touch with the people on the ground, which will help your search or sale enormously.

GEORGE FRANKS

Sales Director of Douglas & Gordon 020 7924 2000; douglasandgordon.com

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A truly stunning four bedroom family home boasting over 2000 sq ft of space.

A

beautiful & fully refurbished four bedroom, three bathroom family home overlooking Clapham Common. This beautiful property has been fully refurbished by the current owners with excellent attention to detail throughout.

The current accommodation is ideally laid out for family living with a beautiful double reception room to the front of the building & a spacious kitchen/family room to the rear of the property. Double doors lead from the kitchen to a well proportioned & very private south facing garden. The master bedroom is also extremely impressive with views across Clapham Common, built in wardrobes

139

& a luxurious en-suite bathroom with balcony. To the rear of the first floor there are two further double bedrooms & a large family bathroom. A further bedroom & bathroom can be found on the second floor, along with an additional room that can be used as a study or playroom.

Clapham Common West Side, SW4 £1,850,000 Chestertons, Battersea 020 7924 4400; chestertons.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:14

HELLO COUNTRY Your Fulham terrace will probably get you a parsonage.

Your Chelsea town house will easily get you a listed property with rolling acres attached.

SEE US

AT

With nine London offices and a countrywide network we can help you realise your ambition.

Plus, you’ll get the same attention and service whether you seek a weekend retreat or something somewhat grander with outbuildings and land.

ER EPTEMB E S 8 2 – 7 2 PALAC FULHAM

Because we believe the people who instruct us are just as important as the properties themselves.

Call us today on 020 8767 7711 or visit us at the Country Life Fair to say hello to some of the country properties we are selling.

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05/09/2014 09:21

sullivanthomas.co.uk | carterjonas.co.uk

GERALDINE ROAD SW18

£2,150,000 F/H

A striking period house with a substantial garden in one of Wandsworths premier streets.

Wandsworth Sales: 020 8767 7711

ELLERTON ROAD SW18

• 6 double bedrooms

• Dining/playroom

• Reception room

• 3 Bath/Shower Rooms

• Sitting room

• Study

• Kitchen/breakfast room

• 64’ Garden

£975pw / £4,225pcm*

Lovely five bedroom family home on this popular road within the Magdalen Estate and close to many schools including Beatrix Potter (catchment area) and Finton House.

Wandsworth Lettings: 020 8682 3121

• 5 Bedrooms

• Conservatory

• Sitting Room

• Laundry

• Kitchen/Breakfast Room

• Garden

• 3 Bathrooms

• Unfurnished

*Rent excludes administration fees. For further information please contact your local office.

Part of a network of 9 offices in London and a further 19 across the country

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05/09/2014 12:51

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Victoria Farrar Director of Currell, Battersea

B

Photography: rebecca noonan

efore you read any further I need to make a confession.

It was over ten years ago that I made a decision that I have always regretted; I didn’t go to university. In fact, I didn’t just not go to university, I didn’t study post school at all, except that is, the art of skiing. I studied this for a solid five years! I am where I am today as a result of this decision. During my fifth season I met some of the Currell team while they were on their annual ski trip, as I worked with their daughter in Dick’s Tea Bar. They were such a great bunch of people that I have never wished more that I was on the other side of the bar.

Here I am ten years later, after insisting I didn’t want to be an estate agent, with my own office south of the river, having worked for Currell for five years. However, the journey to get here hasn’t been a walk in the park.

My first few years at Currell were amazing, I sold properties of all shapes and sizes almost daily. I first worked in our Islington office before moving to Clerkenwell and then on to Victoria Park, where I became the manager.

Victoria Park was fantastic, we had a great reputation there and nearly all the properties we got on the market were as a direct result of recommendations from the ‘village people’. We increased our profits by 68% on the year before.

Battersea however was a different story.

The Currell name was new south of the river and after a great start selling for friends and friends of friends, I soon realised we could not

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continue to rely on this market. In such an established market, it was really tough to get called out on valuations when we were considered the new kids on the block. We couldn’t rely on recommendations like I had come to expect in Victoria Park.

I can now look back on this first year and say it was worth the seven day weeks and sleepless nights. We have a number of new home sites and second hand properties on the market and I have had six valuations in the last four days. The market has started to change and it would seem that this is working in our favour as estate agents have to try that little bit harder to sell a property, and this is where I think our service level stands out.

I love my job and consider myself very fortunate and after all the hard work it is really rewarding to see it take off. Thank goodness I didn’t listen to my family who all work in commercial property, from father to brother to grandfather to uncle and even my twin sister, who all discouraged me from entering the residential sector.

Perhaps the most interesting part of my estate agency journey is this; when I was 15 I did some work experience at Bracketts, a local agent in Tunbridge Wells, and loved it. This led me to apply for a job at Winkworths on Lavender Hill at the age of 19. I didn’t get the job so I cried and went skiing. Ten years later I have opened an office next door to theirs.

I no longer have any regrets.

020 3668 1000; currell.com

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PROPERTY | IN THEIR OWN WORDS

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:17

Results noun.

a consequence or outcome that ensues from an action, good results; success Maximising the value of golden eggs for 20 years

lauristons.com

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03/09/2014 09:56

Since 1994

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Balham

Battersea

Merton Park

Putney

Wimbledon

New Homes

020 8772 9373

020 7978 5800

020 8417 8054

020 8780 8780

020 8946 9468

020 8879 9099

balham@lauristons.com

battersea@lauristons.com

mertonpark@lauristons.com

putney@lauristons.com

wimbledon@lauristons.com

newhomes@lauristons.com

Balham New Road, SW12

£1,500 pcm

Wimbledon Common, SW19 £2,850 pcm

A beautiful fully furnished ground floor one bedroom apartment. The property comprises of a large double bedroom, modern fully fitted kitchen, modern bathroom, large landscaped private garden and good sized reception room. EPC EER C

Full of Victorian charm, this three bedroom cottage is set over three floors and comprises of a master bedroom with en-suite, two further bedrooms, modern bathroom, open plan reception/dining room and a kitchen backing on to a courtyard garden. EPC EER F

Balham Lettings: 020 8772 9373

Wimbledon Lettings: 020 8405 5340

FREEHOLD

Fawe Park Road, SW15

LEASEHOLD

£1,250,000

Trinity Road, SW17

£650,000

Extremely specious loft and rear extended four double bedroom midterrace period house located on this popular road in East Putney within 0.5m of the District line. Offering two reception rooms, two bathrooms and a private south facing rear garden. EPC EER TBC

Immaculate purpose built first floor apartment located near Wandworth Common. Offeing a spacious reception room, modern fitted kitchen, two bedrooms one with an ensuite bathroom, further shower room, balcony, secure off road parking and no forward chain. EPC EER C

Putney Sales: 020 8780 8780

Balham Sales: 020 8772 9373

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FREEHOLD

Valley Road, Streatham, SW16

Prices from ÂŁ735,995

A luxury gated development of 4 bedroom houses in the heart of Streatham. At 1648 sq ft in size with large sleek kitchens and dining rooms, 4 good sized double bedrooms with a vaulted ceiling to the Master Bedroom and secured off-street parking for two cars. Luxury specification including AEG appliances with multiple gas hob, integrated fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, oven, microwave, wine cooler, carpets and wood flooring throughout. 10 year NHBC warranty included. EPC EER B

New Homes: 020 8879 9099

FREEHOLD

Cottenham Place, West Wimbledon, SW20

ÂŁ950,000

A modern & contemporary four bedroom town house located within this highly desirable residential cul-de-sac 0.6 miles from Raynes Park mainline BR station, moments from Wimbledon common and less than one mile from Wimbledon village. Offered to the market with no onward chain this spacious home boasts over 2100 SQFT of floor space, enjoys far reaching views from the top floor, off road parking for two cars and benefits from flexible living accommodation that could provide for a self-contained apartment on the lower ground floor. EPC EER C

Wimbledon Sales: 020 8946 9468

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Balham

Battersea

Merton Park

020 8772 9373

020 7978 5800

020 8417 8054

balham@lauristons.com

battersea@lauristons.com

mertonpark@lauristons.com

Putney

Wimbledon

New Homes

020 8780 8780

020 8946 9468

020 8879 9099

putney@lauristons.com

wimbledon@lauristons.com

newhomes@lauristons.com

Dorincourt, Kingston Vale, SW15

ÂŁ4,950 pcm

A magnificent classical Victorian family house recently restored with a beautiful sense of style off Kingston hill and close to Richmond Park with excellent reception space and gated parking. The property consists of five bedrooms, modern kitchen and breakfast room, double reception room, 2 bath/shower rooms (one en-suite), guest cloakroom, 2 terraces, balcony, landscaped garden and off street parking. A spectacular house ideal for a family who are looking for a modern property with a period twist. EPC EER E

Putney Lettings: 020 8780 8780

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04/09/2014 12:26

CGI representation of The Schoolyard

Wandsworth Common

Northcote Road

Battersea Park

Stunning new 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with balconies in the heart of vibrant SW18 with London on your doorstep

FOURTH PHASE STOCKBRIDGE HOUSE LAUNCHING SATURDAY 20TH AND SUNDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER Don’t miss out. To book a viewing at our marketing suite call 0844

406 9288 or visit www.theschoolyardsw18.com

L&Q_SCHOOLYARD.indd 1 7327_Advert_Absolute_B&C_297x210_SEP14_)v2.indd 1

BLIPP The Schoolyard marble with logo to find out more.

Download ter pos free Blippar app

rt adve

et pack

zine maga

15:35 05/09/2014 15:13

Property News Offerton Road, SW4 £2,250,000

HOUSE HUNTING with...

TOM CRABTREE

Area Director of Marsh & Parsons Property I’d most like on my books and why... Anything on The Chase - the houses

Save The Date!

FIONA BOURKE

Director at Sullivan Thomas, Wandsworth Common 020 8682 3121; sullivanthomas.co.uk

B

ellevue Village Fair – Saturday 13th September. Come along to the Bellevue Fair on Saturday 13th September, bring your family friends and dogs for a fun day out on

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are spectacular and it's a really sought after street. When we sell properties here, we always achieve fantastic prices.

Best place to invest? Property in the Diamond Conservation area still offers good value, but once the Battersea Power Station development is complete you're looking at price rises in line with West Chelsea! My advice is to get in there now.

The most interesting property I have been involved in is... An amazing house in Battersea, which was a Victorian house attached to a converted Victorian warehouse extending

Bellevue Road and Wandsworth Common.

This is the 3rd year this buzzy, family friendly fair has been running -- there will be many stalls selling food, cakes, jewellery, clothes and furniture, and an excellent raffle. There will be a Bucking Bronco, Cider stall and much more. This year there will be the addition of a stage in Wiseton Road with various acts performing throughout the day and by popular demand the Mayhew Animal Home is once again running the now infamous dog show with categories’ such as Waggiest

to over 4300 sqft. The warehouse was allegedly used as a banana factory!

The best sale I've been involved with...

We were instructed on three properties in Wardell Mews after another agent failed to find buyers. The properties are all seriously high spec, and we've now exchanged on two of them for great prices.

Finest property showcase...

We are marketing a beautiful four-bedroom house on Offerton Road, right in the Old Town. It boasts over 2,200 sqft of living space, and whilst retaining some of its period features, it's also been tastefully modernised.

Tail, Handsomest Male, Prettiest Lady, Best Rescue, Owner Lookalike and Best in Show.

Sullivan Thomas with Carter Jonas 020 8682 3121; sullivanthomas.co.uk

150 08/09/2014 16:19

PROPERTY | NEWS

The INSIDE SCOOP of NEWS in your area CURRELL’S

CULTURE CORNER VICTORIA FARRAR

a great opportunity to pick up unique pieces of furniture, accessories and ornaments for your home. The Affordable Art Fair returns from the 23 - 26 October, also in Battersea Park, with 117 galleries participating. This is a must visit destination for all aspiring art collectors who want to start off small.

Director at Curell, Battersea 020 3668 1000; currell.com The season might be turning but there’s still plenty to look forward to as the temperature starts to drop. If you are already missing the festival season, then head to Oxjam Clapham on 11th October on Clapham Common, where a host of eclectic musical acts will be playing from 12pm to 2am, all in aid of Oxfam.

Round off the month in style with a visit to the Moscow State Circus which runs from the 22 October to 2 November, on Clapham Common. With new stunts and a new story set in ‘Gorky Park’, the circus is a wonderful and slightly weird night out that the whole family can enjoy.

If art is more your style, then October holds some fantastic treats for you. The Decorative Antiques and Textile Fair, from the 30 September - 5 October in Battersea Park, is

Chamberland Residential have a new staff member!

everyone that walks through the door so it’s a win win situation as she motivates us every day and all the clients absolutely love her. A job well done Penny!”

Chamberland Residential 020 8704 1313; chamberlandres.co.uk

I

ntroducing Penny the Labrador puppy, Chamberland's new “customer greeting specialist” who’s top skills include unconditional love for everyone, tail wagging, and cuddling.

Chamberland Residentials owner, Nicole Chamberland, finally made the decision to add to her family. “I was a little apprehensive about bringing a pet to the office, but thankfully, I made the right decision. She is just so friendly and loves

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aspire shut shop for a day to help local charity

A

s part of an ongoing programme of support for local organisations, schools and charities, South West London estate agent, aspire, will be closing their Fulham and Battersea offices on Thursday 18th September in order to help local charity – Katherine Low Settlement – with improvements to their historic building based in the heart of Battersea. Staff and helpers from aspire will clear the garden at the KLSettlement headquarters on Battersea High Street as well as paint a room and improve the nursery.

KLSettlement has been a multi-purpose community and social action centre since 1924, dedicated to fighting the effects of poverty and isolation and provides services for older people, newly arrived communities and unemployed people in the Wandsworth area. Their rooms offer space for people to come together to build relationships, to develop themselves and have a good time – from yoga and line dancing classes to pensioners lunches and youth clubs. Local organisations also operate from their premises. Their aim is to respond proactively to local needs and issues, encouraging and supporting selfadvocacy so that people can participate in and run their own groups to meet these needs. Mark Howell, director of aspire’s Battersea office comments; “We are delighted to be supporting a local charity with such worthwhile causes and where there is clearly a benefit to the local community. All our staff and helpers are very much looking forward to a day off from the office and being able to be involved in such a great project."

Donations towards this event can be made at www.everyclick.com/ aspireestateagent and the amount raised will be matched by aspire.

OCTOBER 2014

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featherstoneleigh.co.uk

Mysore Road, Battersea

£1,100,000 A fantastic opportunity to acquire an un-extended 3 bedroom house on one of Battersea's premier roads. No onward chain. EPC = E.

t: 020 7228 2278

Bluewater House, Battersea

£3,380 pcm Spacious three double bedroom river fronted apartment in this popular modern development with three balconies and river views. Available immediately on a part furnished basis. EPC = C.

t: 020 7228 2378 TENANT FEES: • £48.00 (including VAT) per person for referencing

• £195.00 (including VAT) per property for the tenancy agreement

An independent estate agency with 13 offices working together throughout south-west London

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Union Road, Battersea

£1,200,000 A superb opportunity to purchase a five bedroom Victorian terraced family home, with 1600 square feet of accommodation, off street parking and no onward chain.

EPC = F.

t: 020 7228 2278

Broxash Road, Battersea

£3,445 pcm Four bedroom Victorian house set between the commons with Clapham south tube within easy reach. Available early September.

EPC = F.

t: 020 7228 2378

It’s our area...

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Offices throughout London

Kings Avenue, SW12

£850,000

Gauden Road, SW4

£525,000

A fantastic opportunity to acquire this three bedroom, semi-detached house with two garages and off street parking. The freehold property also boasts scope for extension (STPP). EPC= E

A well located Victorian conversion on a popular road near Clapham North tube station and Clapham High Street. This two bedroom flat also boasts communal gardens and swimming pool.

EPC= D

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

Solon New Road, SW4

Silverthorne Road, SW8

£499,950

£330,000

Well-presented throughout is this four bedroom, purpose built apartment, situated a short walk from Clapham North tube and Clapham High Street. A must see property! EPC= D

Superbly located and well-presented throughout is this second floor, one bedroom apartment. The bright property is a must for the viewing list and available now. EPC= D

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Highbury  Islington  West Hampstead

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04/09/2014 14:57

bushells.com

Union Road, SW4

£674,950

A three double bedroom Victorian flat conversion, located a short walk to either Stockwell or Clapham North underground station and Clapham High Street. Situated on the first floor this bright and spacious property also benefiting from off street parking! EPC= D

Clapham Office 020 7627 8084 clapham@bushells.com PART OF THE EDMUND CUDE GROUP

Acton  Balham  Bloomsbury  Battersea  Camden  Clapham  Dulwich  Fulham  Hammersmith  Highbury  Islington  West Hampstead

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PROPERTY | LUXURIOUS LETTINGS

Luxurious Lettings

A stunning, extremely spacious, double fronted five bedroom period house with garage

S

ituated on a popular residential road with easy access into Central Wimbledon and close to Haydons Road train station and Priory primary school. Consists of fantastic kitchen/family room opening to a landscaped garden, two further reception

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rooms, four double bedrooms (master with ensuite), plus study/nursery.

Cromwell Road, SW19 ÂŁ4,500 Per Month Ellisons, Wimbledon 020 8944 8626; ellisons.uk.com

156

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:21

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON balham

battersea 020 7801 3400

clapham north 020 7840 3700

clapham south

020 8673 6111

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

020 8675 1222 020 8772 7080

Abbeville Road, SW4

OIEO £950,000

A top floor maisonette moments from Abbeville Village, three large double bedrooms, open plan kitchen with vaulted ceiling and west facing garden.

• Own front door • Open plan living/kitchen room • Three double bedrooms • Master en-suite • Close to Clapham South tube

aspire clapham south 020 8675 1222 clapham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

08/09/2014 15:49

OFFICES THROUGHOUT SOUTH WEST LONDON clapham south

balham

battersea

clapham north

020 8673 6111

020 7801 3400

020 7840 3700

020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south 020 7736 6110

furzedown

tooting

020 7381 7381

020 8769 7900

Ascensis Tower, SW18

020 8772 7080

£1,500,000

A luxury 10th floor, three bedroom apartment with stunning views directly on to the river situated within Battersea Reach’s premier block.

• • • • • •

3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms Media system Private balcony Direct river views Underground parking

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

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Sistova Road, SW12

£1,295,000

A classic 1850 constructed four bedroom double fronted home, offering plenty of charm and character together with a wealth of original period features.

• Double fronted • Period features • Three floors • Cellar • Close to Tube • Conservatory

aspire balham 020 8673 6111 balham@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

08/09/2014 15:50

offices throughout south west london balham 020 8673 6111

battersea 020 7801 3400

clapham north 020 7840 3700

clapham south 020 8675 1222

fulham central

fulham south

furzedown

tooting

020 7736 6110

020 8769 7900

020 8772 7080

020 7381 7381

Lumiere Apartments, St Johns Hill, SW11

T

he premiere apartments at Lumiere occupy the fifth and sixth floors of this historic building with unrivalled panoramic views across the London skyline.

A rather unique and spectacular penthouse apartment, forming part of a Grade II listed building formerly known as the Granada Theatre in 1937, is now on the market.

This penthouse apartment is situated on the sixth and seventh floors, briefly consisting of; an open entrance hall, two generous double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes in the second bedroom and a contemporary Jack-and-Jill

style bathroom that can be used as an en-suite to the master, or as a cloakroom bathroom.

Going up to the seventh floor to the main living area, you are met with floor to ceiling windows on three sides and a breathtaking panoramic view of London. The apartment towers above all the surrounding buildings however further privacy can be had at the touch of a button, with solar reflective electronic blinds. The upper floor is a superb size for entertaining, with a spacious kitchen area, dining space and a sofa area to enjoy the views. There is also a further bathroom

on this floor, as well as a huge private west facing roof terrace, with an abundance of space for dining and entertaining. This specification of the flat includes comfort cooling to both bedrooms and the living area upstairs, as well as under floor heating throughout. There is an allocated off street parking space for one car and the residents of Lumiere can also benefit from a private cinema room for their use only.

Lumiere Apartments is situated on St John’s Hill, just moments from Clapham Junction railway station (National Rail and

.co.uk

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Overland). There are various popular local amenities that can be found on Northcote Road, Lavender Hill and Battersea Rise, all of which are a short walk away.

For more details please contact Russell Smith on 020 7801 3400 Email: battersea@aspire.co.uk

aspire battersea 020 7801 3400 battersea@aspire.co.uk

SOUTH WEST LONDON’S LEADING ESTATE AGENT

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.co.uk

08/09/2014 15:31

PEDDER.indd 2 PDR_ad_migration_02.indd All Pages

01/09/2014 12:42

www.pedderproperty.com

Are you a migrating variety?

If you’re looking for property with more space, greater investment potential and a competitive price tag, you might be looking in the wrong place. South East London has all of these attributes and house prices are lower than our more established SW neighbours.

At Pedder, we have a greater choice of SE London property than any of our competitors, so maybe it’s time to have a look. You never know, the grass may just be greener this side of the fence.

Pedder. Nobody knows SE London like we know SE London.

Pedder. SE London’s premier agent PEDDER.indd 3

01/09/2014 17:01 12:42 01/08/2014

PROPERTY | LONDON LETTINGS

London Lettings Lovelace Road, SE21 £2,800 Per Month A spacious five bedroom, two bathroom period property.

Benefitting from an extended secluded garden, this property is immaculate and tastefully decorated throughout. There is a wonderful newly built kitchen/ dining room, as well as a large double reception room.

Pedder, Dulwich Village 020 8299 0922; pedderproperty.com

LOWDOWN FOR LANDLORDS

How do I know I am getting a good tenant?

A Terrapin Road, SW17

£350 Per Week

A beautifully presented one bedroom first floor conversion flat.

Conveniently located close to Tooting Bec and Balham Stations, this property offers a large and bright open plan kitchen and reception room, modern bathroom and large double bedroom with inbuilt storage.

USE.V5.indd 2

DAISY MAHER

Lettings Manager at Jacksons, Battersea

020 7924 2255; jacksonsestateagents.com

Bushells, Clapham 020 7501 0454; bushells.com ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

professional and experienced Lettings Agent should have good intuition and be able to spot what a “good tenant” looks like. However, Jacksons have a strict referencing process in place whereby we outsource to a credible, insurance based referencing company that are responsible for seeking out as much relevant information as possible. This is to aid the landlord in making an informed decision, minimising the risk as much as possible regarding the prospective tenant. There are no guarantees with anything in life, however this is a great procedure and precautionary measure to take when assessing if your prospective tenant is reliable and responsible enough to be trusted with your very valuable asset.

164 08/09/2014 16:26

PROPERTY | NEW TO THE MARKET

New to the Market VENDOR ADVICE

How has the local demographic changed in your area over the past five years?

I

n 2009, areas of Wandsworth were still being seen as an up and coming and perfect for families with younger children.

‘Between the Commons’ (Northcote Road) and Balham were seen as ideal, with an amazing array of individual shops and 3 beautiful Commons to utilise but relatively small gardens.

Transport links are excellent, with The City and Chelsea only a short ride away. Since then, there has been a migration out of the larger wellestablished areas of Wandsworth to the Home Counties and beyond and their place has been taken by younger families from ‘Between the Commons’ looking for larger gardens. In turn, a new generation of couples have moved in, often from the Home Counties, completing the circle and reducing the overall age demographic.

Wakehurst Road, SW11

£1,495,000 Freehold

An immaculate four bedroom end of terrace Victorian house.

Fully refurbished by the current owners to a high standard, there is a wonderful sense of light and space throughout.

Douglas & Gordon, Battersea, 020 7924 2000; douglasandgordon.com

JASON CORBETT

Partner Residential Sales Sullivan Thomas with Carter Jonas, Wandsworth Common

020 8767 7711; sullivanthomas.co.uk

Kersley Street, SW11

£1,875,000 Freehold

This substantial Victorian family house has been architecturally designed and extended to create a wealth of living and entertaining space throughout.

The ground floor of the property comprises of a double reception room, fitted kitchen and dining area with doors leading to the rear garden. There are four bedrooms arranged over the first and second floors, which are served by a family bathroom and

further shower room. There is also a lovely decked terrace on the second floor and a pretty rear patio garden.

John D Wood & Co., Battersea 020 7228 0174; johndwood.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:26

Christopher Cady, Associate Director

Beautifully renovated Excellent location

p r e m i e r

Salcott Road, SW11 A newly renovated Victorian house situated within a highly sought after road running off Northcote Road. All works have been carried out to the highest standard with the well planned Beeck kitchen incorporating a plethora of appliances and all bath/shower rooms have excellent fittings. The house has an abundance of light and bifold doors lead from the kitchen to the private courtyard garden. ÂŁ1,750,000 Freehold

Battersea 020 7924 2255

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05/09/2014 14:29

Balham 020 8675 6565

Earlsfield 020 8971 7070

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899

Battersea 020 7924 2255

Putney Open 2014

Clapham 020 8875 7995

Streatham 020 8677 9900

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

East Dulwich 020 8875 7999

Tooting 020 8767 0522

Wimbledon 020 3195 9111

Lovely family home

www.jacksonsestateagents.com

p r e m i e r

Extended kitchen

Honeywell Road, SW11 A bright and spacious terraced Victorian family house situated in one of the most sought after roads off Northcote Road. The accommodation comprises; a double reception room, cloakroom/W.C. fully extended kitchen/breakfast room, large lawned garden. Over the first and second floors are five genuine double bedrooms served by two bathrooms/shower rooms. ÂŁ1,650,000 Freehold

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

JACKSONS.indd 2

05/09/2014 06/08/2014 14:30 09:52

Sophia O’Carroll Tilly, Sales Manager Christopher Cady,&Associate Director

Three balconies

Panoramic views

p r e m i e r

Compass House, SW18 An incredibly spacious interior designed second floor purpose built apartment, in a favoured block built in 2003 by St. George PLC, which is immediately fronting the River Thames, enjoying far reaching panoramic views from Wandsworth Bridge down to Putney Bridge. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, master bedroom with en suite, two further bedrooms, family bathroom, fitted kitchen, large reception room and three balconies. ÂŁ1,070,000 Leasehold

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899

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05/09/2014 14:31

Balham 020 8675 6565

Earlsfield 020 8971 7070

Wandsworth 020 8875 8899

Battersea 020 7924 2255

Putney Open 2014

Clapham 020 8875 7995

Streatham 020 8677 9900

Wandsworth Common 020 8672 9077

East Dulwich 020 8875 7999

Tooting 020 8767 0522

Wimbledon 020 3195 9111

Victorian home

www.jacksonsestateagents.com

p r e m i e r

Abundance of period features

Franciscan Road, SW17 We are delighted to offer this beautiful, bright and spacious four bedroom Victorian home. It is arranged over three floors and retains many of its original features. It also has an impressive extended side return kitchen/ breakfast room. Franciscan Road is an extremely popular residential road located close to the amenities of Tooting Bec and the underground station, which is only 0.5 of a mile away. ÂŁ1,050,000 Freehold

Tooting 020 8767 0522

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08/09/2014 09:52 16:48 06/08/2014

currell.com

£570 per week Lupus Street, SW1V • Two bedrooms • Private balcony • Open plan reception • Newly refurbished

£1,300 per week The Tower, SW8 • Two Bedrooms • Valet parking • Resident’s gym and swimming pool • 24 hour concierge

CURRELLS.indd 1

04/09/2014 16:44

Currell £750,000 Share Freehold Barnard Rd, SW11 • Three double bedrooms • Potential to extend • Victorian maisonette • In need of modernisation • EPC rating - E

£660,000 Share Freehold Thornton Avenue, SW2 • Three double bedrooms • Period maisonette • Close to Balham tube • Large communal garden • EPC rating - D *tenancy fees will apply. For more details on our fees please visit our website www.currell.com/knowledge-base/our-letting-fees

020 3668 1000 battersea@currell.com CURRELLS.indd 2

04/09/2014 16:44

PROPERTY | DEVELOPMENT

Property Development OVAL QUARTER

I

n the heart of South, Central London, Oval Quarter offers a collection of high quality apartments a short walk from Oval station. Ideal for the working Londoner wanting easy access to the city and a lifestyle of luxury; the homes are design driven and both stylish and spacious in equal measure. This September will see the second phase release of a further 78 high specification apartments offering a selection of one and two bedroom designs. Each home boasts outdoor space, whether it be a private terrace or balcony, with selected homes overlooking newly created 3 hectare park. Each apartment also include an openplan living room and a fully fitted kitchen with a range of integrated, Smeg appliances.

Prices start from £385,000 for a one bedroom apartment.

Oval Quarter, SW9 020 7582 7288; ovalquarter.com

L&Q

Spotlight on

SW15 Average asking price £978,599 Average asking rents £2,385 pcm Average property value £799,902 Data provided by

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NICKI CLARK

Sales Negotiator at L&Q

W

andsworth’s property market has proved resilient in recent months, with strong sales continuing throughout the usually quiet summer period. This is largely due to the huge

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demand for homes in the area, with young couples in particular attracted to Wandsworth’s abundant parks, cafes, restaurants shops and excellent transport links. As we move into the last quarter of 2014, I expect to see the local market continue to grow, with further regeneration happening across the borough and new developments - including L&Q’s The Schoolyard - currently underway.

0844 406 9800; lqgroup.org.uk

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:28

DREAM OF LIVING NEXT TO ACRES OF PARKLAND IN ZONE 2?

LAUNCHING 20TH SEPTEMBER Realise the dream of living in a fantastic Zone 2 location, at the heart of urban London and just a 9 minute tube journey to Bank, yet with acres of parkland right on your doorstep.

The new apartments at Oval Quarter feature luxury interiors and private outside space, occupying a prime position adjacent to the new park.

1 bedroom apartments from £385,000 2 bedroom apartments from £490,000 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartments from £530,000 Estimated completion December 2015

020 7582 7288

OVAL_QUARTER.indd 1

04/09/2014 16:46

Dedication’s what you need!

Our dedicated staff are breaking records all the time

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH 020 8780 1100

139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ sales@warrenputney.co.uk

www.warrenputney.co.uk

Warren_Corp.indd 4

04/04/2014 16:13

AG L R ET EE D

AG L R ET EE D

Campion Road, SW15

£5000 PCM

£4,750 PCM

Semi-detached Edwardian house | Drawing room | Dining room | Kitchen/family room | Five bedrooms | Three bath/shower rooms | Guest W.C./utility | Cellar | Private garden | Central Location | EPC rating E

AG L R ET EE D

AG L R ET EE D

Semi-detached house | Double reception room | Kitchen/ breakfast room | Conservatory/dining room | Utility room | Cloak room | Rear garden | Side access | Five double bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Close to transport links | EPC rating F

Landford Road, SW15

Landford Road, SW15

£4,333 PCM

Edwardian family home | Beautiful period features | Porch | Wide hallway | Large double reception room | Kitchen | Five Double bedrooms | Family bathroom | Shower room | Large cellar with utilities | Private garden | Well located | Close to highly regarded local schools | EPC rating D

Fairfax Mews, SW15

£4,000 PCM

| Modern terraced house | Reception room | Conservatory | Kitchen/breakfast room | Master suite | Four further bedrooms | Two further bathrooms & guest W.C. | 2 Off-street parking spaces | Gated development | Close to high street | EPC rating C

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk WARREN.indd 1

04/09/2014 16:42

Fanthorpe Street, SW15 ÂŁ1,425,000

A spacious (1840 Sq Ft) and wellproportioned five bedroom Victorian terraced house with a private rear garden on a popular and quiet residential road in prime West Putney.

Victorian | 1,840 Sq Ft | Double reception | Kitchen/breakfast room | Downstairs W.C. | Cellar | 30 Ft private rear garden | Master bedroom | Four further double bedrooms | Two bathrooms | EPC rating E

Blackett Street, SW15 ÂŁ1,375,000

A delightful four bedroom terraced Victorian house with a private garden on an exceptionally quiet residential street in prime West Putney.

Terraced freehold Victorian house | Double reception room | Kitchen dinning room | Conservatory | Four double bedrooms | Eaves storage | Private East facing garden (open to the South) | Catchment area of a number of excellent primary schools | EPC rating E

194 Upper Richmond Road SW15 2SH / 139 Lower Richmond Road SW15 1EZ WARREN.indd 2

04/09/2014 16:43

T: 020 8780 1100

Bective Road, SW15

warrenputney.co.uk

£1,500,000

Putney Hill , SW15

£1,295,000

Double reception room | Downstairs cloak room | Cellar | Kitchen/breakfast room | Four bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Private 65 Ft West facing garden | Within Brandlehow School catchment | Potential to extend further (Subject to necessary consents) | EPC rating E

Semi-detached freehold house | 1623 Sq Ft | Allocated off street parking | Private West facing garden | Reception room | Kitchen/breakfast room | Three double bedrooms | Fourth double bedroom/second reception room | Guest W.C. | Chain Free | Convenient and quiet location | EPC rating C

Dryad Street, SW15

Lower Richmond Road, SW15

£1,200,000

Detached converted warehouse | Three double bedrooms | Luxury modern en-suite shower room | Modern bathroom | 20 Ft reception room with double height vaulted ceiling | Extremely well-appointed kitchen with high quality fittings | Patio with hot tub | Decked roof terrace | EPC rating C

£750,000

Share of freehold | Two double bedrooms | Landmark Victorian Mansion block apartment | Large reception room | Modern kitchen/breakfast room | New wood floors | Modern bathroom | Separate W.C. | Beautiful communal gardens | Prime Putney location | Lift | EPC rating D

Tel: 020 8780 1100 / sales@warrenputney.co.uk / warrenputney.co.uk

WARREN.indd 3

04/09/2014 16:43

PROPERTY | COMMUNITY NEWS

Community News

Local estate agent continues sponsorship of highly successful Clapham Opera Festival

F

ollowing the highly successful Clapham Opera Festival, which took place for the first time last year, plans are well underway for this year’s Festival which will provide an entertaining and varied programme of opera style concerts together with an Opera - under an overall theme of a celebration of the Diva and Divo. Booking is already open and the response has been tremendous amongst local residents and families.

Attendees will have the opportunity to experience some great talent from Guildhall, Royal College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music, as well as artists who have performed at Glyndebourne, the Royal Opera House and Wigmore Hall. Renowned soprano, Lucy Crowe – a recent recipient of the Fellowship of the

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Royal Academy of Music – is Patron for the second year. Justin Greaves, director of aspire’s Clapham South office, comments; “We are delighted to once again be the main Friend of The Festival for such an interesting programme and we are pleased it is already creating a lot of interest amongst local people and the wider community.” Festival founder and Artistic Director, Marie Soulier adds; “My dream was to bring opera to my neighbourhood in Clapham and make it a place for the wider community to experience the passion, joy, pain and tragedy of this art form. With the help of some wonderful supporters and local businesses, we managed to attract a big crowd to the first Festival in 2013 including more than 120 children. We are most grateful to aspire who have kindly

178

committed to the Festival once again and without whose support last year the Festival would not have been able to happen – they not only supported us financially but also gave much in the way of promotional support.” The Grand Opening takes place on Sunday 21st September with a concert that celebrates the arias made famous by the great Divas and Divos of Opera.

In October there will be concerts to showcase beautiful Baroque music (‘Simply Baroque’) and the works of Mozart and his Contemporaries (Haydn & Salieri amongst others).

The Festival finishes in November with two performances of Rossini's La Cenerentola (Cinderella) opera.

The Festival promotes and provides a showcase for fresh artistic talent in the UK opera world. It also exists to bring Opera to as many people as possible.

Unique to the Clapham Opera Festival is the desire to create a sensory experience for everyone who attends, triggering all the senses. Sound is obvious, but time is taken to ensure the visual impact is just as powerful. Wonderful refreshments are laid on to evoke taste, while the audience have the chance to get up close and meet the artists immediately after each performance. Finally, the Festival has its own Olfactory Advisor to select the scent for each performance. aspire is helping with the set up and promotion of the event and festival tickets can also be bought in-branch. claphamoperafestival.com

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:31

The fresh side of real estate launches near you For Lettings & Sales, Strawberry Star’s new estate agency provides a specialist service with unrivalled value, focused on the needs of vendors, landlords, buyers and tenants alike.

Now open for business in Royal Docks and Wandsworth.

Please contact Strawberry Star for more information wandsworth@strawberrystar.com | www.strawberrystar.com

STRAWBERRY_STAR.indd 1

01/09/2014 12:39

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Kingston Hill, KT2 £7,250* pcm (Charges apply)* Very well presented detached double-fronted five bedroom family house with beautiful landscaped garden, backing onto Richmond Park and close to Norbiton station and Kingston town centre. EPC: D

Wimbledon Park, SW19 £6,000* pcm (Charges apply)* Unique five bedroom family house in excellent order retaining many 1930s features, double garage, off street parking, beautiful garden, between Wimbledon Park and the Common. EPC: TBC.

Hamptons Wimbledon Lettings. 020 8454 7629

HAMPTONS.indd 2

*Tenant Charges: Tenants should note that as well as rent, an administration charge of £216 (Inc. VAT) per property and a referencing charge of £54 (Inc. VAT) per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit www.hamptons.co.uk/rent/tenant-charges

09/09/2014 15:05

Coombe Estate, KT2 Impressive and unique detached family residence, situated in the sought-after Coombe Estate, offering over 6000 Sq. ft. of accommodation. The well presented property includes excellent entertaining space, six bedrooms, generous garage space, an annexe and garden. EPC: D

£3,695,000 Freehold • Detached Period Property • Excellent Entertaining Space • Six Bedrooms • Annexe • Gated Driveway • Two Garages

Hamptons Wimbledon Sales. 020 8454 7249

HAMPTONS.indd 3

09/09/2014 15:05

Smart picks from over a million properties.

Garage New build Wood floors

ZOOPLA.indd 1 Zest Adverts_Jan2014.indd 2

04/09/2014 08/01/2014 15:39 09:34

“Proving that BIG isn’t always better...”

Ashburnham Road, SW10

£3,012 pcm

Brewhouse Lane, SW15

£1,600 pcm

A beautifully presented ground floor three bedroom apartment set within a luxurious mansion block and is located within walking distance to local amenities of Chelsea. Being only moments to the River, this property offers three good size bedrooms, two bathrooms and off street parking is also available.

A spacious one bedroom apartment within the prestigious Putney Wharf area. This property is conveniently located for most amenities and is within walking distance to both Putney Bridge Tube and Putney Rail station as well as the High Street, restaurants, pubs and the River/ Embankment.

Felsham Road, SW15

Woodborough Road, SW15

£1,900 pcm

A beautifully decorated two double bedroom split level garden flat located in sought after West Putney. The property boasts a large modern eat in kitchen, a bright reception room with feature fireplace and high ceilings, two bathrooms (one ensuite) and a charming private garden that is perfect for entertaining.

£2,250 pcm

An incredibly large conversion flat located in sought after West Putney. This ground floor period property offers three very large double bedrooms, 2 spacious bathrooms, a large communal garden with direct access from your lounge/ kitchen, incredible storage and off street parking on the driveway for one car.

www.chamberlandres.co.uk | 020 8704 1313 lettings@chamberlandres.co.uk | sales@chamberlandres.co.uk 212 Upper Richmond Road, London, SW15 6TD

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05/09/2014 11:56

Ouseley Road, SW12 | £1,600,000 Conveniently situated close to Wandsworth Common and Bellevue Road, this charming semi-detached Victorian family house has five bedrooms, a delightful double reception room and to the rear is a stunning, landscaped 47ft garden.

LD

SO

Entrance hall | Double reception room | Kitchen/dining room | Five bedrooms | Family Bathroom | WC | Shower room | Large cellar | 47ft landscaped garden | EPC Rating: E | 2030 sq ft (189 sq m)

LD

SO

Hosack Road, SW17 - EPC: D

Burntwood Close, SW18 - EPC: D

£1,550,000, * Freehold

£1,499,950, * Freehold

* Asking Price

rymer-irens.com

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04/09/2014 12:04

Boundaries Road, SW12 | ÂŁ1,350,000 Freehold Immaculately presented throughout, with both Balham and Wandsworth Common close by, this bright and spacious Victorian family house forms part of a very attractive terrace and offers four double bedrooms and an extended kitchen/dining room.

Hall | Double reception room | Extended kitchen/dining room | Stunning master bedroom suite | Three further double bedrooms | Bathroom & shower room | Cellar | 35ft rear garden | EPC rating: D | 1986 sq ft (185 sq m)

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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04/09/2014 12:05

Nevis Road, SW17 | £650,000 Long leasehold

Barmouth Road, SW18 | £725,000 Leasehold

Delightful ground floor purpose-built Victorian maisonette with two bedrooms and own front door.

Very well-proportioned two bedroom split-level Victorian flat with its own delightful 28ft garden.

Hall | Reception room | Kitchen/dining room | Two bedrooms | Bathroom | Shared west facing garden | EPC rating: D | 860 sq ft (80 sq m)

Kitchen/breakfast room | Dining room | Reception room | Two bedrooms | Bathroom | Terrace | Garden | EPC rating: E | 1,046 sq ft (97 sq m)

LD

SO

LD

SO

Wandle Road, SW17 - EPC: D

Wandle Road, SW17 - EPC: E

£1,650,000, * Freehold

£2,500,000, * Freehold

* Asking Price

rymer-irens.com

RYMER_IRENS.indd 3

04/09/2014 12:05

Endlesham Road, SW12 | ÂŁ1,800,000 Freehold With an outstanding 60ft wide rear garden, complete with sun terrace, this delightful three storey Victorian family house (set back from the road) offers superbly proportioned living & entertaining space along with four large double bedrooms.

Hall | Drawing room | TV room | 30ft kitchen/dining/family room | Master bedroom with en suite bathroom | Three further double bedrooms | Family bathroom | Rear loft | Large cellar | 60ft wide rear garden | EPC Rating: D | 2525 sq ft (235 sq m)

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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04/09/2014 12:06

Terrapin Road, SW17 | Price on Application Freehold Extending to 4,332 sq ft and forming part of the Heaver Estate Conservation Area, this very large double fronted Victorian family house offers wonderfully well-proportioned accommodation arranged over three floors along with a 45ft garden.

Entrance hall | Four impressive reception rooms | Kitchen | Seven/eight double bedrooms | Two bathrooms | Shower room | 45ft rear garden | EPC rating: D | 4,332 sq ft (402 sq m)

rymer-irens.com

RYMER_IRENS.indd 5

04/09/2014 12:06

Lyford Road, SW18 | ÂŁ3,300,000 Freehold This substantial semi-detached family home is exquisitely decorated & presented throughout and offers two floors of impressive entertaining & living space, along with six bedrooms and an enchanting, 70ft south facing rear garden.

Entrance hall | Double reception room | Kitchen | Family/dining room | Playroom | Six bedrooms (one en suite) | Two further bathrooms | Shower room | Utility room | Two store rooms | 70ft south facing garden | EPC rating: C | 3637 sq ft (338 sq m)

34 Bellevue Road London SW17 7EF

89 Nightingale Lane London SW12 8NX

020 8767 2222

020 8045 8989

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04/09/2014 12:09

BE THE FIRST TO LIVE AT BATTERSEA POWER STATION

Introducing Battersea Power Station Estates, the official estate agent for Central London’s most visionary and eagerly anticipated new development.

The experienced, in-house team that make up this new company are able to offer specialist knowledge, and focus on ensuring the experience of buying, selling, letting and managing a home at Battersea Power Station is hassle-free and enjoyable.

Our wide range of services include: · Re-sales · Lettings · Tenancy Management · Property Management · Interior design and furniture packages We have a good selection of re-sales in the previously sold-out Phase 1, enabling you to be one of the first to live at this incredible location.

Book an appointment at our riverside office here at Battersea Power Station in order to view the models and show apartments, giving you an insight into what it would be like to live here.

NBT2431_DPS_AbsoultelyBatterseaClapham_Sept2014_AW.indd BPS.indd 2 All Pages

05/09/2014 11:25

Contact us to find out more about Battersea Power Station Estates.

188 Kirtling Street, London SW8 5BN +44 (0)20 7062 1840 www.bpsestates.co.uk info@bpsestates.co.uk

OUR PROPERTIES Studio apartments from £535k to £730k Benefiting from thought through interior design and many with spectacular river views, these apartments allow you to create a base at Battersea Power Station, whilst enjoying significant value for money.

With a good selection available at present, this is a fantastic opportunity for a long term investment.

One bedroom apartments from £625k to £900k These are the perfect size to allow a true home to be created at Battersea Power Station, London’s most sought after development.

The apartments also have beautiful winter gardens that offer the convenience of bringing the outdoors inside, whilst offering privacy and peace. Currently we have a number for you to choose from.

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Two bedrooms apartments from £925k to £2.3m These spacious, highly specified homes offer optimum space for you to enjoy all that Battersea has to offer. Here you are in the heart of London, yet can enjoy the tranquillity of Battersea Park without even having to cross a road. We have the largest range of this size of apartment, allowing you to choose the perfect home.

Three beds apartments from £2.8m to £4.5m This extraordinary and highly sought after development offers you and your family a place to live, work and play. These premium apartments allow you well-appointed, generous entertaining space and stunning interiors by Linley Design. A handful have come back to the market with occupation of these, and all sized apartments starting in 2016.

04/09/2014 05/09/2014 16:26 11:26

PROPERTY | SPOTLIGHT

Spotlight on PUTNEY

Through the Keyhole... FARLOW ROAD, SW15 £1,650,000

A

MIKE CROWTHER

Director at Warren 020 8780 1100; warrenputney.co.uk

quite exceptional newly renovated and fully extended four bedroom, four bathroom Victorian terraced freehold house. The team behind this back-to-brick refurbishment are architects who have spared no expense in creating a spacious (1966 sq ft), remarkably light, and sumptuously detailed family home.

KITCHEN

MASTER BATHROOM

Luxury Bulthaup fitted kitchen with Siemens appliances and LED lighting system. Frameless effect fixed structural glass roof light and frameless glass doors.

Integrated bathroom design with bespoke storage, Formoso Piccolo freestanding Stone Bath and Statuarietto polished marble vanity top.

ROOF TERRACE

South-West facing roof terrace with feature lighting, landscape designed utilising Iroko Hardwood Timber Decking and offering extensive views over Putney.

PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE from the experts

CHARLOTTE HUDSON Lettings Manager at Lauristons, Putney 020 8780 8780; lauristons.com

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BEST SCHOOL

Putney offers a range of fantastic schools including Putney High, Brandlehow and ADT which specialises in technology. A popular location for families as there’s plenty of choice.

RAINY DAY

Take a walk down Putney high street or along the river where you’ll find an array of restaurants, bars and shopping as well as the Odeon cinema, or catch a show at the Putney art theatre.

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SPORTS & REC

There's a variety of gyms and swimming facilities. In April you can catch the famous boat race down by the river or learn to Scuba dive at ‘Dive Putney’ scuba diving school.

FUN FOR FREE

Catch a game of crazy golf along with other local events on Putney Common. During September take a day out with the family to Putney embankment for ‘Putney Funday.'

OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:34

PUTNEY SW15

LONDON SQUARE PUTNEY L AUNCHING SATURDAY 27 TH SEPTEMBER 2014, 11AM – 6PM 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses designed by award-winning architects Alford Hall Monaghan Morris ideally situated moments from the mainline and East Putney stations. Set to transform the skyline of the Upper Richmond Road, each contemporary high specification apartment will have its own winter garden or balcony, while a selection will enjoy fantastic south-facing terraces. Residents will benefit from access to a communal roof terrace and a 24-hour concierge service.

CALL 0333 666 2838 FOR YOUR INVITATION TO THE LAUNCH

www.londonsquare.co.uk

Computer generated image depicts London Square Putney. Details are correct at time of going to press.

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08/09/2014 11:26

PROPERTY | BATTERSEA DEVELOPMENT

Introducing Circus West

Computer generated images of show apartments

Unique Winter Garden Apartments for sale in Battersea

T

he newly formed Battersea Power Station Estates Team is offering the opportunity to become part of the new Battersea Power Station community through a number of spectacular apartments in the first phase, ‘Circus West’ of the visionary riverside development. Rare for London, every apartment has a unique winter garden that offers the convenience of bringing the outdoors inside, whilst offering privacy and peace. The apartments varying from studios to 3 bedrooms will also all have access to an elevated residents garden and there are many with spectacular river views. David Linley has designed a 5,000 sq ft Residents Club with a bar, private

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dining space, library, business centre and cinema. As well as the apartments Circus West will have a range of other amenities including art galleries, a Power Station Design shop, independent coffee shops, a boutique theatre, gym, indoor swimming pool and a health spa. With prices offering significant value for money in price per square foot the apartments are a strong long term investment or ready to move in and call home in 2016.

Battersea Power Station Estates has exclusive access to the show flats.

Studios from £525,000 One beds from £625,000 Two beds from £925,000 Three beds with river views from £2,800,000.

Battersea Power Station Estates 020 7062 1840; bpsestates.co.uk

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OCTOBER 2014

08/09/2014 16:39

VINTAGE

MODERN Stylish modern living in an iconic London setting.

Beautifully crafted studio, 1,2,3 & 4 bed apartments.

Launching October 2014 – Register now theramquarter.com Joint selling agents

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A development by

04/09/2014 09:46

FOR SALE

Devereux Road Between the Commons, SW11 £2,375,000 | FREEHOLD This substantial Victorian double-fronted property (currently in two flats) has planning consent for large loft, full basement and ground floor extensions to create an outstanding property of approx 3750 square feet. It has a wide, SW-facing garden and is very close to Honeywell School and Northcote Road. It is a wonderful opportunity for an incoming purchaser keen on modernisation and design. EPC - D

• Front Garden • Hall • 3 Reception Rooms • Cloakroom/Utility • Kitchen/Dining Room • Media Family Room

• Study • Gym/Bedroom 6 • 5 Double Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms (2 En Suite) • 30’ x 30’ SW-facing garden • 3750 SQ.FT / 349 SQ.M

FOR SALE

Wroughton Road Between the Commons, SW11 £925,000 | SHARE OF FREEHOLD This magnificent 3 double bedroom apartment is packed with wow-factor and offers outstanding living/entertaining space courtesy of its huge floor area of 1453 square feet (135 sq m). Positioned on the upper floors of a substantial Victorian property, it has been beautifully extended and meticulously designed in contemporary style. Situated between the commons close to excellent transport facilities, good schools and fashionable Northcote Road. EPC - D

• Entrance Hall • Head-Height Cellar • Huge 27’ x 17’ Reception/ Kitchen • 3 Double Bedrooms • Bathroom/WC • En Suite Shower Room / WC

• Separate WC • Utility Room • 1453 SQ.FT/ 135 SQ.M • L B Of Wandsworth • Share of Freehold • Resident’s Parking

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

@JTEstateAgents

john-thorogood.co.uk | 020 7228 7474 | info@john-thorogood.co.uk | 140 Northcote Road SW11 6QZ

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04/09/2014 12:50

FOR SALE

Broomwood Road Between the Commons, SW11 £1,595,000 | FREEHOLD If school catchment areas are near the top of your list of priorities, this extra wide semi-linked family house could well be up your street. As well as a south-facing garden, there’s superb living space thanks to the addition of a children’s playroom at lower ground level, a lovely extended kitchen, separate utility room, and on top of that there’s still scope to extend the loft. EPC - D

• Close to Honeywell School • Semi-Linked • Double Reception Room • Extended Kitchen • Playroom • Utility Room

• Five Bedrooms • South-Facing Garden • Scope To Extend • Residents Parking • London Borough of Wandsworth • 2398 Sq Ft / 222.7 Sq M

TO LET

Mallinson Road Between the Commons, SW11 £995 | PER WEEK This five bedroom, three bathroom Victorian house, with south-facing garden has been superbly renovated and extended to a first-class, contemporary standard. It’s directly off Northcote Road’s fashionable parade of shops, bars and restaurants, close to Belleville and Bolingbroke Academy schools and within half a mile of Clapham Junction mainline station. EPC - C

• Entrance Hall • Double Reception Room • Kitchen/Dining Room • Snug / TV room • South-Facing Landscaped Garden • Utility Room • Cloakroom / WC

EXCLUSIVE, HD FILMS FOR EVERY PROPERTY

• 5 Bedrooms • 3 Bath/Shower Rooms (2 En Suite) • London Borough of Wandsworth • Residents’ Parking • Available 1st October 2014 • 1976 SQ.FT / 183.57 SQ.M + LOFT

@JTEstateAgents I N N O VA T I O N

SINCE 1991 INTEGRITY

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Brynmaer Road SW11 ÂŁ2,295,000 Freehold Battersea Park Sales 020 7720 8077 | battpksales@dng.co.uk

North

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Chelsea

Fulham

This spacious family home is located on one of the most sought-after roads in Battersea. Full planning permission has been granted for a loft conversion, rear second floor extension and a full basement extension.

Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington

Kensington Gate

5 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Dining room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Garden, EPC: D.

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

05/09/2014 10:11

douglasandgordon.com

The Chase SW4 ÂŁ2,250,000 Freehold Clapham Sales 020 8675 4400 | clapsthsales@dng.co.uk

South

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Balham

Battersea

Battersea Park

This family home is located close to Clapham Common, on one of the most popular roads in the area. The property is walking distance to the fantastic shops and restaurants of Clapham Old Town.

Clapham

East Putney

Southfields & Earlsfield

Master bedroom with en-suite, 4 further bedrooms, 2 family bathrooms, Reception room, Eat-in kitchen, Study, Cloakroom, Garden, EPC: B.

West Putney

05/09/2014 09:38

Crestway SW15 £1,500,000 Freehold West Putney Sales 020 8785 6666 | wputneysales@dng.co.uk

Lytton Grove SW15 £1,350,000 Freehold East Putney Sales 020 8788 3000 | putneysales@dng.co.uk North

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Chelsea

Fulham

This house is perfectly positioned for the local amenities and transport links which Putney and Roehampton have to offer.

This property offers plenty of space and would make an idyllic family home.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, Open-plan kitchen/breakfast room, Balcony, Patio, Summer House, Garden, Off-street parking, EPC: E.

A well-presented family home situated on this quiet residential street in the heart of East Putney. Stretching to over 1,700 sq.ft. the property is a comfortable and practical family home.

4 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en-suite), 2 reception rooms, Kitchen/ dining room, Garden, Garage, Off-street parking, EPC: C.

Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington

Kensington Gate

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

05/09/2014 09:38

douglasandgordon.com

Elspeth Road SW11 ÂŁ650,000 Share of Freehold Battersea Sales 020 7924 2000 | battsales@dng.co.uk

Nightingale Lane SW12 ÂŁ635,000 Share of Freehold Balham Sales 020 8673 0191 | balhamsales@dng.co.uk South

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Balham

Battersea

Battersea Park

This light and bright flat occupies the ground and rear first floor of this mid terrace Victorian property and boats a good size garden. It is also ideally located for quick and easy access to the open spaces of Clapham Common.

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite), Kitchen/breakfast room, Cellar, Garden, EPC: D.

This stylish first floor flat is immaculately decorated and offers lovely high ceilings throughout. This is a perfect property for a young professional couple and would also make a superb rental investment.

2 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, EPC: C.

Clapham

East Putney

Southfields & Earlsfield

West Putney

05/09/2014 09:38

Quill Terrace SW15 £1,100 per week Fees apply Unfurnished East Putney Lettings 020 8788 3333 | putneylets@dng.co.uk

Abbeville Road SW4 £895 per week Fees apply Unfurnished Clapham Lettings 020 8675 0888 | clapsthlets@dng.co.uk North

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Chelsea

Fulham

A modern four bedroom family house ideally located on one of West Putney's most desirable roads. The house is spread over four floors and benefits from off-street parking for one car.

4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Double reception room, Family room, Kitchen, Utility room, Cloakroom, Off-street parking, EPC: C.

A family home located in the heart of the Abbeville Village. The property offers a double reception room and a large kitchen/breakfast room, both with access on to the south-facing garden.

4 double bedrooms, Bathroom, Shower room, Double reception room, Kitchen/ dining room, Cellar, Cloakroom, South-facing garden, EPC: E.

Hammersmith & Shepherd’s Bush

Kensington

Kensington Gate

South Kensington

Notting Hill

Pimlico & Westminster

05/09/2014 11:17

douglasandgordon.com

Orbel Street SW11 ÂŁ750 per week Fees apply Furnished/Unfurnished Battersea Park Lettings 020 7498 5243 | battpklets@dng.co.uk

Manor Gardens SW4 ÂŁ585 per week Fees apply Furnished Clapham Lettings 020 8675 0888 | clapsthlets@dng.co.uk South

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Balham

Battersea

Battersea Park

A newly refurbished family house on this quiet, tree-lined street. The property offers wonderful entertaining space with an extremely light reception room and an open-plan kitchen/dining area.

3 double bedrooms, Family bathroom, Shower room, Reception room, Open-plan kitchen/dining room, Garden, EPC: E.

A beautiful flat in this sought-after mansion block. Located in Clapham Old Town the property is close to the transport links of Clapham High Street and Clapham North.

2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Reception room, Kitchen/breakfast room, Utility room, Communal garden, EPC: D.

Clapham

East Putney

Southfields & Earlsfield

West Putney

05/09/2014 09:38

An ever reliable constant at those life-changing moments.

There are lots of reasons you’ll move home during your lifetime. It could be because of an expanding family or to be close to a new school. Whatever the reason, we’ll be there, providing you with knowledgeable advice and personal support. douglasandgordon.com

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