Absolutely Chelsea : Fulham February 2017

CHELSEA / FULHAM FEBRUARY 2017 / £3.95

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD

COASTAL GEMS PRIME PROPERTIES IN NEW ZEALAND

THE GRANDE DAME OF RUGS

SLEEP TIGHT

BEDROOM COMFORT UNCOVERED

Free

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Furniture makers - Redefining bespoke Visit your nearest London showroom Chelsea 84 Fulham Road SW3 6HR T: 020 7584 5736 NEW Notting Hill 102 Westbourne Grove W2 5RU T: 020 7243 2315 Clackersbrook Farm Bromham Wiltshire SN15 2JJ T: 01380 859299 E-mail: enq@mccarronandco.com www.mccarronandco.com

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20/01/2017 17:26

fine art design antiques

15 – 21 march king’s road london sw3 badafair.com

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FAULKNER HOUSE, HAMMERSMITH The luxurious apartments, which offer far-reaching views of London’s iconic skyline and the Thames, are designed to the highest specification, with the open plan living spaces and effortlessly elegant interiors reflecting the quality of the development.

EPC = TBC.

2

2

1

ASKING PRICE

£1,370,000 FULHAM 020 7610 9755

Indicative image of development not of specific unit.

ELM LODGE, FULHAM An immaculately presented apartment, perfectly positioned on the North bank of the River, with beautiful views of the iconic Thames, large private terrace and secure underground parking.

EPC = C.

2

2

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ASKING PRICE

£1,000,000 FULHAM 020 7610 9755

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Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

CAMBRIDGE GARDENS, LADBROKE GROVE A stunning three bedroom period Villa apartment newly refurbished throughout with modern furnishings and high end appliances.

The property is located on a quiet residential road yet with the amenities of Notting Hill close by. Ladbroke Grove tube station (Circle and Hammersmith and City) is within walking distance.

EPC = C.

ASKING PRICE

ÂŁ1,149,950

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FULHAM 020 7610 9755

24/01/2017 15:31

ABSOLUTELY london

www.absolutely.london is now live

Your guide to inspirational London living From the team behind Absolutely Magazines

FOLLOW US AT @AbsolutelyMagazines @absolutely_mags

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Febr uar y 2017

100 c u lt u r e

14 18

30 fa s h i o n

ABSOLUTELY LOVES

30 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

WHAT’S ON

32 BEAUTIFUL SOUL

10 things we’re coveting this month Diary dates for February

20 MOOMIN MIDWINTER

Why 2017 is set to be the year of the Moomin

24 VIVIENNE WESTWOOD

A collaboration with The Rug Company

This month’s hottest trends and products

Meeting the label's founder, Nicola Woods

37 GET THE LOOK Star-spangled fashion

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

48 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL The month’s best beauty buys

53 PURPLE REIGN

Make-up in shades of aubergine

At home with Alex Michaelis

100 CROATIAN SUN

INTERIORS

68 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS News and views

11 NH_Feb17_Contents.indd 11

80 AN ARCHITECT'S KITCHEN

58 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL The Common and Messapica, NW10

h ay l e y m e n z i e s .c o m

All the most comfortable essentials

t r av e l

63 RESTAURANT REVIEWS

p h oto g r a p h y by zo e m cco n n e l l

74 BEDDING DOWN

Food & Drink News from the industry

Covers:

58

Why Hvar is the hottest ticket right now

PROPERTY

116 PROPERTY NEWS

The best investments in London

142 LUXURY LETTINGS Our pick of the market

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 12:13

INNOVATIVE

SCHMIDT GROUPE SAS - RCS COLMAR B 326 784 709 - Photo credit : Atelier Marc BARRAL BARON and Visiolab - Non-contractual photographs

SCHOLUTIONS

ARE EUROPE’S LEADING KITCHEN BRAND. Boasting French style and German engineering, we offer the best of both worlds.

Beautiful and affordable made-to-measure kitchens with no compromise on quality or ser vice.

Our showroom design specialists tailor-make your kitchen then our complete installation ser vice ensures an efficient, hassle-free fitting. With Schmidt, you don’t have to wait for the Januar y sales to enjoy unbeatable quality and ser vice at an affordable price.

KBB - 230x297 - Notoriete 2017.indd 1

Visit www.schmidt-hammersmith.co.uk to find out more, or come see us in store at 323 King Street, Hammersmith, W6 9NH

19/12/2016 11:45

Schmidt Hammersmith | 0203 714 6000 | Design@schmidt-hammersmith.co.uk

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04/01/2017 15:23

EDITOR PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HANNAH HOPKINS EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE KIDS' EDITOR HELEN BARON PROPERTY EDITOR TAMAR VANDERHOEK FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER JOY MONTGOMERY ARTS & CULTURE WRITER HELEN BROWN ADVERTISING MANAGER ROCHELLE STREATER SALES DIRECTOR ROLLO DENNISON COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR LEAH DAY-ABALOS PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA PRODUCTION MANAGER CHRIS COUCHMAN MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER EKREM YILMAZ DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MARKETING MANAGER NEFELI KRITIKOU FINANCIAL CONTROLLER AYSHA HABIB CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com Subscriptions are available simply by emailing subscription@zest-media.com You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

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

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

Fo l l ow Us O n T wi t t e r @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS Fa c e b o o k ‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES’ absolutely.london

EDITOR’S letter

A

s February dawns and the 14th approaches, everything seems to take on a pinkish tinge. All the hearts and cupids become a bit relentless so in this issue we’ve kept it all to a minimum, restricting ourselves to some delicious Godiva chocolates and a round-up of the most romantic restaurants London has to offer.

Instead, let’s focus on fashion.

This month we spoke with Nicola Woods of Notting Hill-based fashion brand Beautiful Soul about her ethical approach and her floaty floral prints, and we drool over Vivienne Westwood's impressive new designs for The Rug Company. More ideas for our homes come with a look at beds and bedding – specifically, how

13 NH_Feb17_Eds_Letter.indd 13

to find the most comfortable ones – and we also admire architect Alex Michaelis's new kitchen. Foodwise, we've trialled several recipe boxes and rated them for convenience, ease and taste – plus, of course, it's half term this month, so we have some activity ideas for that too.

We hope you enjoy the issue.◆

Pendle Harte Editor

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 12:22

AGE OF INNOCENCE

Shrimps designer Hannah Weiland conveyed a feeling of nostalgia and innocence through her resort 2017 collection, which was inspired by nursery rhymes and children’s drawings. shrimps.co.uk

10 Things We

ABSOLUTELY

PINK FIZZ

Billecart Salmon's Brut Rosé Non-Vintage is widely regarded as one of the finest non-vintage Rosé champagnes on the market and is guaranteed to make someone smile. £60; bbr.com

Compiled By

H E L E N B R OW N

BURGUNDY UPGRADE

Rev up your SS17 edit with this burgundy piece from Victoria by Victoria Beckham which does anything but blend in. £985; net-a-porter.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Feb16_AbsLoves1.indd 14

PINK PEONY

A special edition of Acqua Di Parma's Peonia Nobile has an intensely floral heart and a seductive elegance, and comes in a beautiful Art Deco-inspired bottle. £78; acquadiparma.com

14 24/01/2017 11:54

ABSOLUTELY / LOVES ENGLISH ROSE

The essence of femininity. Fall in love with Rosie’s 3 bestselling perfumes inspired by the luxurious scent of rose. Perfect for Valentine’s Day and available exclusively at Marks & Spencer. marksandspencer.com

SCENTS OF LOVE Inspired by the red Tubéreuse at dusk, this heady candle intoxicates, captivates and beguiles. £55; diptyqueparis.co.uk

LOVE BITE

A mark of Cutler and Gross' signature creativity, these Acetate Mirrored Love Bite sunglasses offer a perfectly playful accent to off-duty looks. £330; net-a-porter.com

VELVET EDGE

Channel a glamorous rock and roll attitude with a Western twist with Chloé's statement Susanna boots. £870; chloe.com

SWEET TREATS

TWINKLING TIMEPIECE

Beautifully simple, this 14-piece heart box is a delight, whether you decide to give it as a gift or indulge in it yourself. £20; godiva.com

This manually wound timepiece is adorned with ruby hour markers to form a beautiful finish with its cherry red alligator strap. £49,390; patek.com

15 Chis_Feb16_AbsLoves1.indd 15

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 11:54

ORIGINAL, LIMITED-EDITION ART DECO POSTERS

N EW Limited to editions of 280, our newly-commissioned Art Deco posters feature glamorous holiday destinations around the world, ski resorts in the Austrian, French and Swiss Alps, and the world’s greatest historic automobiles. Over 100 designs to choose from, all printed on 100% cotton fine art paper, measuring 97 x 65 cms.

Priced at £395 each.

Private commissions are also welcome.

Pullman Editions Ltd 94 Pimlico Road Chelsea London SW1W 8PL www.pullmaneditions.com Tel: +44 (0)20 7730 0547 Email: georgina@pullmaneditions.com

Our central London gallery

All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions Ltd. 2017

View and buy online at w w w.pullmaneditions.com PULLMAN EDITIONS.indd 1

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p. 18

MOOMIN MANIA

p. 20

HALF-TERM ACTIVITIES

p. 26

Joe Webb Super Conductor II, 50x50 at the Saatchi Gallery

> WHAT'S ON

17 NH_Feb17_Culture_Opener.indd 17

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:15

ROALD DAHL AT 100

O n go i n g T he B r i ti s h Li b ra r y o mark the spectacular centenary T anniversary of Roald Dahl’s birth, Sir Quentin Blake has drawn special portraits of some of the most celebrated characters from Dahl’s stories. Featured sitters include Matilda, Charlie Bucket and the BFG like you’ve never seen before. Each picture is new and has never before appeared in a book. u 96 Euston Road, NW1; bl.uk

NATIONAL WEDDING SHOW

DAVID REMFREY

17-1 9 Fe b r u a r y O ly m p i a mong the designer wedding dresses, A flower markets and accessories, brides and grooms-to-be will find inspiration to help plan their special day. Enjoy the spectacular catwalk show, update your styling knowledge and get professional tips on choosing the perfect dress. u Hammersmith Road, W14; nationalweddingshow.co.uk.

in conversation with Anna McNay 20 Feb r u a r y, 4 .3 0 pm He a t h e rl e y S ch ool of Fin e Art

David Remfry’s work has focused largely on the figure. In the mid-1960s he became fixated on painting the American girl trios, the Shirelles and the Ronettes. A burgeoning reputation in America from 1980 onwards led him to move to New York in 1995, where he lived and worked at the Chelsea Hotel until 2016.

Tickets are free, allocated on a first come, first served basis.

75 Lots Road, SW10; heatherleys.org

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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BAUER BROTHERS

O n go i n g t h ro u gh o u t Fe b r u a r y Na tu ra l H i s to r y M u s e u m rguably the most accomplished natural A history artists of all time, Franz and his brother Ferdinand spent their lives drawing nature. This is a rare opportunity to see their works and watercolours, which are both beautiful and scientifically accurate. u Cromwell Road, SW7; nhm.ac.uk

18 24/01/2017 15:31

ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

TANYA GOMEZ

COLLECT

2 -6 Fe b r u a r y S a a tc hi G a ll e r y n an exhibition of Gomez's most ambitious work yet, 40 I vessels are set against beautiful hand-painted backdrops as part of Collect Open, the leading international art fair for contemporary objects presented by the Crafts Council. The vessels’ glaze and the large scale background cleverly create a visual allegory of the relationship between the land and sky.u Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, SW3; saatchigallery.com; tgceramics.co.uk

must see

Eden by

SIMAFRA Until 11 February

Maddox G a l l e r y

MIRÓ AND LIFE IN GENERAL

Simafra has made a name for himself with his textual, abstract expressionist landscapes, collected by celebrities and royals alike and adorning the walls of luxury venues across the world. This solo show is his first in London and features new previously unseen dream-like works.

Until 2 5 Februar y Marian G oodman G aller y or his second major exhibition at F Marian Goodman Gallery, John Baldessari continues his exploration into the correlations and contrasts between painting and photography, and between image and language. Each work features a detail from one specific Miró painting and pairs it with a seemingly incongruous, Hollywood film still, displaying what Baldessari refers to as ‘Life in General’. u 5-8 Lower John Street, W1F;; mariangoodman.com

9 Maddox St, W1S; madoxgallery.co.uk

SHOW OF THE MONTH

TRAVESTIES Fro m 14 Feb r u a r y Apo l lo T h e at re

or the first time in two decades, Tom Stoppard’s awardwinning play has been revived for the West End. In this dazzling comedy, action follows English diplomat Henry Carr, played by Tom Hollander, as he

F

19 NH_Feb17_Whats_On_USE.indd 19

reminisces about the war, and his bizarre memories imagining himself to have played an unreasonably pivotal role in 20th century history.  31 Shaftsbury Avenue, W1D; appollotheatrelondon.co.uk

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:31

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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20 24/01/2017 12:17

ARTS & CULTURE / FOCUS

MOOMIN midwinter

The craze for all things Nordic continues with a strong focus on Moomins throughout 2017. Absolutely celebrates their magical world Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:17

Private GP Service at Parkside Hospital

We have a team of highly experienced GPs available here at Parkside Hospital, so if you or your family want to be seen quickly, at a time convenient to you, contact us for a private consultation.

You can visit our Private GPs regularly or just when your usual GP isn’t available, or even if you just want a second opinion. You don’t need private medical insurance to book a private GP appointment.

Should you need any tests, X-rays or diagnostic scans, we can carry these out onsite, so the process from diagnosis to onward referrals is seamless.

Expert consultations for everyone: • Affordable service with no waiting list • Evening and weekend appointments • Male and female GPs • Treatment plans tailored to your individual needs

Call us today on 020 8971 8026 or email us at info@parkside-hospital.co.uk to discuss your requirements.

53 Parkside, Wimbledon, London SW19 5NX

PARKSIDE HOSPITAL.indd 1 PS_Ad_(Exclusive-Full Page)_WINTER2017_FAW.indd 1

www.parkside-hospital.co.uk

12/01/2017 10/01/2017 12:52 13:27

ARTS & CULTURE / FOCUS

SHOP

MOOMIN PIECES

Arabia’s Moomin range is available at skandium.com

I

f 2016 was the year of hygge, then 2017 is set to be the year of the Moomins. The Southbank Centre has launched Nordic Matters, a year of Scandinavianthemed events, which kicks off with Adventures in Moominland, an immersive exhibition dedicated to the rounded inhabitants of Moominvalley and their Finnish creator, Tove Jansson. Other global Moomin happenings in 2017 incude the opening of a new museum in Finland, the launch of a new animated series by Wallace and Gromit’s Steve Box and an Easter Moomin festival at Kew Gardens.

The exhibition at the Festival Hall focuses heavily on Jansson’s life, featuring original illustrations and artworks as well as letters and personal items from her studio, displayed in an interactive world based on the Nordic landscape of the books. Several of the Moomin stories, such as Comet in Moominland (1946) and Moomin Midwinter (1957) were written against the backdrop of political and socio-economic change in Finland and heavily influenced by Tove’s relationships with family, friends and lovers which defined the narrative and character development. Written during a time of hardship and war, the tolerant world of Moominvalley offered a refuge from the harshness of reality. Jansson explored her art and own sexuality within the confines of this changing political landscape - and her friends, enemies, fears and hopes often found themselves manifested in the complex and emotional stories.

Accompanying the Southbank’s exhibition is a pop-up Moomin store in the Festival Hall, selling the ever-popular Moomin homewares. Finish design

company Arabia started manufacturing Moomin-themed children’s ceramics, using Jansson’s original illustrations, in the late 1950s, and a second launch in the 1990s kicked off a Moomin boom that has never really gone away. The high quality ceramics with their simple, practical shapes and the high-shine glaze of the colourful Moomin motifs make the pieces highly collectible – and the limited edition ranges particularly so.

The Moomin-themed Easter extravaganza at Kew Gardens is an exciting interactive trail exploring the hidden depths of the gardens, passing vibrant displays of fritillaries, camassias and tulips, and culminating at a magical Moomin Camp in the wild woodland of the Conservation Area.

Sophia Jansson, creative director of Moomin Characters and niece of Tove Jansson, said: “All of the inhabitants of Moominvalley possess a deep love and respect for nature, from the Hemulens who spend their time collecting plants or butterflies to the adventurous Snufkin, whose music is inspired by the landscape around him.” ◆ l Adventures in Moominland continues at the Royal Festival Hall until 23 April.

Book tickets at southbankcentre.co.uk or call 020 7960 4200 l The Moomins Easter Adventure comes to Kew Gardens from 1 to 17 April. kew.org

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:17

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

Thistle Gold and Thistle Pewter, Hand knotted Tibetan wool and silk, 2.74x1.83m £6,518 or £1,300/m2

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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24 24/01/2017 12:12

ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE

Punk Rug Vivienne Westwood’s new handknotted rugs for The Rug Company have an illustrative quality. Absolutely admires the collection I n t e r v i e w p e a r l b oy d

V

ivienne Westwood’s latest collection for The Rug Company combines her quintessentially bold designs with her deep sense of heritage. Her constant references to traditional British motifs are subverted and reinvented to create thoroughly modern and decorative designs.

Westwood has a long standing association with Scotland and their traditional fabrics such as Harris Tweed, wools and plaids. In 1993 Westwood produced her own tartan called ‘MacAndreas’, named after her husband and design partner, Andreas Kronthaler. The Thistle rug is a gesture to Vivienne’s affinity with Scotland.

An abstract graphic of the regal milk thistle, Scotland’s national emblem, is hand knotted with fine silk yarns on a Tibetan wool background. The design is available in muted dusty rose with

Quintessentially

BOLD DESIGNS combine WITH A DEEP SENSE OF heritage gold and dove grey with gunmetal, the silk yarns lending the thistle motifs a captivating iridescence.

Moiré is a traditional fabric technique historically used by Westwood on grand silk taffeta ball gowns and velvet suiting in solid colours to create a fluid waterlike movement. For a contemporary feel, Vivienne uses the traditional Moiré motif on the rug with high contrasting shades of soft black and natural white,

25 B&C_Feb17_Westwood.indd 25

blown up to maximise the monochrome effect, creating a statement piece.

Reminiscent of an English rose garden in full bloom, Vivienne’s Rose print with its wide open buds and micro detailed thorn stems has a botanical illustrative-like quality, painted using a soft aquarelle watercolour technique.

The details in Vivienne’s Rose are emphasised by a careful blending of the handspun yarns of Tibetan wool, which are then knotted by hand into a rug.

The design has also been translated into a finely handwoven tapestry cushion, available in two colourways: blushed ruby red and dusky plum.

The Vivienne Westwood collection is available exclusively from The Rug Company showrooms. Each piece has been woven entirely by hand by craftsmen using the age-old weaving techniques and the finest natural yarns for which The Rug Company is renowned. u therugcompany.com

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:13

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Half-term

HAPPENINGS London’s offering of events and activities to keep the little ones entertained over the holiday Wo r d s H e l e n B r o w n

M ag i cal L ante r n F e s t i va l

Magical Lantern Festival

K

ids will be engaged for hours exploring this fairytale world of light sculptures and Chinese art at Chiswick House and Gardens. 65 acres have been packed with a dazzling extravaganza of lights, music theatre and a lantern adventure formed of wildlife, nature, and architecture. Elsewhere lies a 600 square metre ice rink, photo opportunities, lantern riddles, a mini funfair and games. Guests can step inside the world of Virtual Reality, from running with dinosaurs to virtual roller coasters and delight in a mouth-watering range of international cuisine and traditional street food. ◆ Open Thursday to Sunday, from 5pm until 10pm Chiswick House, Conservatory Yard, W4;

The Sherlock Holmes Experience

magicallantern.uk

The Sherlock Holmes Experience

O

nce home to the Chamber of Horrors, the basement of Madame Tussauds has been transformed into Sherlock Holmes-themed interactive experience, which brings the world of the fictional detective to life. Children will discover Holmes's drawing room, walk along a lamp-lit Victorian street and search for the infamous 'demon' hound on a dark moor. This is a permanent addition to Madame Tussauds London and is included in the venue's entry price. ◆ Open daily from 8:30am until 6pm.

Marylebone Rd, Marylebone, NW1;

madametussauds.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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26 24/01/2017 12:21

ARTS & CULTURE / AGENDA The Cartoon Museum

Fire! Fire!

V

enture back in time with the kids to relive the Great Fire of 1666, a disaster that has shaped the London we know today. They will discover the city before, during and after the Great Fire of London, with an interactive exhibition that marks the fire's 350th anniversary. Let them explore a recreated Pudding Lane, the scene where the fire began, and understand how the city overcame the disaster to emerge through the rubble stronger than ever. Rarely seen 17th-century artifacts are on display as well personal accounts from Londoners alive at the time. ◆ Open daily from 10am until 6pm.

150 London Wall, EC2Y;

museumoflondon.org

Fire! Fire!

The Cartoon Museum

T

O r c h i d F e s t i va l

he Cartoon Museum is London's first museum, dedicated to showing the best British cartoons, comics, caricatures and animation from the 18th century to the present day. Downstairs the artists' names are immediately recognisable; upstairs – where comic strip art from 2000AD, the Dandy and the Beano is displayed – is much more about the characters portrayed; from Rupert the Bear, Dan Dare and Judge Dredd. There is an excellent shop and children's animation workshops are held during school holidays. ◆ Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:30am until 5:30pm.

35 Little Russell St, WC1A;

Orchid Festival

A

celebration of the orchid returns for its 22nd year, this time inspired by the vibrant colours, culture and magnificent plant life of India. Children will be amazed by gigantic floral displays in the shape of elephants, peacocks, tigers and a giant Indian flag, created using exotic orchids; alongside decorative rickshaws, Indian soundscapes, films and much more. The festival includes special half term activities for the little ones, including block printing, Bodhi leaf colouring and face painting. ◆ Open 11am until 3:30pm Royal Botanic Gardens, TW9; kew.org

cartoonmuseum.org

27 C&A_Feb17_Half_Term.indd 27

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:21

AT T H E AWA R D W I N N I N G

Dance

Take the first step, we can teach you the rest!

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18/01/2017 17:15

•

> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p. 30

INTERVIEW: BEAUTIFUL SOUL

p. 32

TREND: STARRY-EYED

p. 37

FAUX CHIC Known for their funky take on faux fur, Shrimps is the hot fashion label that has spawned a thousand copycats. Launched in 2013, the brand’s Insta-friendly popsicle scarves quickly transported them to fashion stardom. For Resort '17 the brand has harnessed a palette of dusty pinks and blues, alongside hits of high-shine vinyl. shrimps.co.uk

29 CHIS_Feb17_Fashion_Opener.indd 29

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 14:33

st y l e C e n t r a l

It's all about striped knits, sustainable party-wear and luxe lingerie this February Wo r d s j oy m o n t g o m e r y

FA S H I O N P R O F I L E :

THE DAY ROOMS London's first Australian Concept Store

L

ooking for a well-edited and beautifully presented fashion and lifestyle boutique in your local area? Look no further than The Dayrooms, London's first Australian concept store.

Launched in November 2016, the store is dedicated to providing an affordable and chic selection of curated fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands from down under.

With a flagship store in Westbourne Grove, The Day Rooms stocks some of Australia's most well-known and much-loved brands, including Alice McCall, Ginger and Smart, Camilla and Marc, Sunday Somewhere and Shona Joy. Furthermore, the store will act as a UK platform for young Australian talent to show their collections, stocking an array of items that you just can't get elsewhere.

Best friends Zumrud Mammadova and Central Saint Martins graduate Aytan Mehdiyeva decided to launch The Dayrooms after a trip to Australia where they fell in love with the country and all it had to offer. As fashion enthusiasts the girls quickly became obsessed with Aussie fashion and were surprised to find that you couldn't buy it in the UK. "Australian style is like nothing else in the world", Aytan explains. "We wanted to bring this magic back to London and give customers a taste of the joy we experienced when wearing it". When their new looks got a warm reception back home, they knew they were onto something and The Dayrooms was born. l thedayrooms.com The Dayrooms, 237 Westbourne Grove, London, W11 2SE ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Knitted Out Wo o l a n d t h e G a n g x & O t h e r S t o r i e s

Our favourite designer-look high street store has joined forces with UKbased brand Wool and the Gang, to bring a bit of DIY to your wardrobe.

Championing a more sustainable approach to fashion, Wool and the Gang’s collaboration with & Other Stories features a variety of ready-made knitted pieces alongside ‘knit kits’, which offer fashion-lovers a chance to get crafty and create their own looks. Who says knitting was just for grannies? stories.com

30 24/01/2017 15:06

FASHION / NOTES

5 STYLE STEAL

of the best

Madeleine Thompson

Gucci’s striped cashmere knit won the hearts of the fashion crowd this season with its vibrant hues and Alessandro Michele geek chic appeal. If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to Gucci then Madeleine Thompson’s striped knit is a serous dopplegänger. Simply pair with straight leg jeans and patent ankle boots come spring. £299; madeleine-thompson.com

LINGERIE BRANDS Best For Basics: HANKY PANKY

DRESS TO IMPRESS Reformation

Meet Reformation: the womenswear label making sustainable fashion chic.

Gracing countless red carpet events and high profile parties, the brand's simple yet striking looks are catnip for fashion-forward a-listers. Whether it’s a velvet mini, silken slip dress or floorskimming show-stopper - Reformation has occasion-wear covered. thereformation.com

Sweetheart Mesh Bralette, £65; Signature Lace Bikini - Blossom, £32; harrods.com

Best For Date Nights: L’AGENT BY AGENT PROVOCATEUR

Above: Anjelica Nude Playsuit, £110; Idalia Red Bra & Brief, from £28; lagentbyap.com

SHEER PERFECTION Iro

The shearling jacket is another example of the military trend extending its reach across AW16’s eclectic fashionscape. Iro’s blush pink iteration will summon visions of an ever-nearing spring, while still keeping you protected from February’s cold bite.

Cosy, chic and cocooning what’s not to love? £1,850; iroparis.com

editor’s

PICK

Best For Show-Stoppers: LOVE & LEMONS

Left: Bodysuit, £198; Right: Lace Bra, £145; yoox.com

HIGH HEEL APPEAL Lucy Choi

It's official: mid-height heels are having a moment. Forget the orthopaedic styles of yesteryear and modernise the look with these perfect pointed middies in animal print pony hair, courtesy of Lucy Choi. They will offer serious style credentials when paired with cropped flares and a sparkly knit. £230; shoplucychoilondon.com

31 Chis_Feb17_Fashion_Confidential_.indd 31

Best For Girly Sets: FLEUR OF ENGLAND

Boudoir Bra & Brief, both £95, fleurofengland.com

Best For Classic Styles: HEIDI KLUM

Black Bra & Brief, from £27; yoox.com

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:07

Soul

SISTER Absolutely meets Nicola Woods, founder of ethical fashion brand Beautiful Soul I n t e r v i e w J oy m o n tg o m e ry

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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32 24/01/2017 12:02

FASHION / PROFILE JOY MONTGOMERY: How was Beautiful Soul first conceived?

NICOLA WOODS: I had an unconventional

route into the fashion industry. After working in a fast-paced career in corporate insurance for 11 years, I took a sabbatical to travel the world with my best friend. During this adventure I found my calling sitting under a cherry blossom tree in the heart of Tokyo and I began to envision my career path from a different point of view. In that moment I realised I needed to make radical changes to my lifestyle and revisit my childhood ambition of design. I haven’t looked back since. Returning to London I underwent training at the London College of Fashion, earning a BA(Hons) in Fashion, Design and Technology (Creative Pattern Cutter) and launched Beautiful Soul London in 2011.

Fast fashion

MIGHT BE CHEAP

but somebody in the supply chain is SUFFERING as a result

Takara dress in British Lace

During my degree, I was set the challenge of designing a collection made out of old junk. While many students didn’t seem enthusiastic, for me, my creativity came to life. I loved everything about this project as it taught me to delve beneath the surface and think outside the box. Most of all I loved meeting Orsola de Castro, a guest speaker who shared her passion about upcycling to a packed lecture hall of students - one of whom was me. From that moment a seed was planted and my final collection was inspired by Wabi-Sabi, the quintessential Japanese aesthetic of finding beauty in the imperfect, modest and humble.

Each piece in the collection was oneof-a-kind and tailored from upcycled vintage Japanese kimonos which dated back to the 1940s. The love and craftsmanship that went into making every single garment gave me a true understanding of the production line.

After graduating, Orsola and friends from the Ethical Fashion Forum and Centre for Sustainable Fashion encouraged me

to apply to Estethica - a platform founded by the British Fashion Council to promote sustainable fashion at London Fashion Week. The V&A fell in love with my debut Kimono collection and stocked it for several seasons.

I grew the business from scratch and launched a ready-to-wear collection: Beautiful Soul London.

JM: What role does sustainability play in your brand?

NICOLA WOODS: As a designer and

Emi Dress in Hydrangea

33 NH_Feb17_Beautiful_Soul V4.indd 33

founder of a fashion label, I am constantly developing new ways to incorporate responsibility into the brand's processes, ensuring sustainability is at the core of the brand's DNA. We exercise a common sense policy, using our voices to ensure the indsutry values people, the environment, creativity and profits in equal measure.

Fast fashion might be cheap but somebody in the supply chain is suffering as a result - consumers should not under estimate their power. Try to have a rule

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:02

For a symbol of everlasting love look no further‌.. The original Algerian Loveknot.

Made with love in London.

Order via: www.sophieharley.com For all enquiries call the studio +44 (0)20 7430 2070 or email info@sophieharley.com SOPHIE HARLEY.indd 1

23/01/2017 16:30

FASHION / PROFILE

I have been LUCKY and BUILT a following of loyal SUPPORTERS: Pippa Middleton and Livia Firth, to name a few Hill in spring. The Signature Hydrangea print looked to childhood memories of collecting pet ladybirds with my sister, keeping them safe on our grandmother's blooming hydrangeas. Look closely and you will find cute bumblebees and ladybirds nestled within the flower petals.

For SS17 I have also launched my first design collaboration with luxury English brand Aspinal of London, who support young British designers. Together we have designed a range of bags and umbrellas with a covering of Beautiful Soul's timeless Signature Hydrangea and Blossom prints.

JM: What has been the highlight of your career so far?

NW: I have been incredibly lucky and built

a following of loyal supporters, including Pippa Middleton and Livia Firth to name a few. It's also amazing seeing our friends wearing and enjoying the brand. I had the pleasure of meeting the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, which was a surreal experience and such a memorable day.

Takara dress - bouquet navy

JM: How would you define British style?

NW: I love that there are no rules to

with yourself only to buy pieces that you love and will cherish. I would recommend watching The True Cost (of Fashion) documentary, which explains my vision to create pieces that are beautiful, inside and out.

British fashion. As a British designer I am passionate about honouring the hallmarks of British craftsmanship and supporting the regeneration of UK manufacturing and textile production. I love to add a sprinkle of English charm to my designs, which are unapologetically feminine.

JM: What inspired your Patti Wilson collection?

NW: I named the collection Patti Wilson

JM: What is your favourite piece from your latest collection?

NW: The Takara dress, Emi dress Miki

after my mum, and I set myself the challenge of re-working my favourite prints from Beautiful Soul London’s archive. The Signature Blossom print was inspired by that life-changing moment in Tokyo and the English charm of Notting

dress and Hanna dress are my favourite styles and I own them in a variety of signature prints. ď ľ Chika shirt dress

35 NH_Feb17_Beautiful_Soul V4.indd 35

beautiful-soul.co.uk

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:03

20% OFF TICKETS WHEN YOU QUOTE ‘ABSOLUTELY’

CATWALK SHOWS DESIGNER SHOPPING INDUSTRY TALKS Fashion has a new home!

The Store Studios, 180 Strand WC2R @LFW_Festival #LFWFestival www.londonfashionweekfestival.com

LFW.indd 1 170109-Absolutely.indd 2

10/01/2017 09/01/2017 10:54 14:46

FASHION / TREND PAUL & JOE Star print silk shirt, £303; boutique1.com

BELLA FREUD Cashmere star spangle jumper in ivory, £380; bellafreud.com

MARY KATRANTZOU Stardom coat burgundy, £2,190; marykatrantzou.com

JIMMY CHOO Lockett petite patchwork shoulder bag, £1,409; jimmychoo.com

ELLIE SAAB SS17

MADGA BUTRYM Miami dress, £1,950; magdabutrym.com

ZARA Stars shirt, £29.99; zara.com STELLA MCCARTNEY Star-print low-slung skinny jeans, £415; matchesfashion.com

DIANE KORDAS Diamond & rose-gold Star ring, £1,269; dianekordasjewellery.com

ATTICO Cher star embellished dress, £1,157.44; farfetch.com

PERFECT MOMENT Star dust sweater, £275; perfectmoment.com

STARRY-EYED Get lost in the cosmos this season B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

VALENTINO Garavani tan-go pumps, £760; matchesfashion.com

MARC JACOBS Star patchwork leather continental wallet, £160; marcjacobs.com

37 Chis_Jan16_Fashion_Products_.indd 37

CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA Galactica metallic leather & velvet ankle boots, £865; charlotteolympia.com

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:24

free

SPI R I T Hayley Menzies’ new collection is titled Love Story, for its romantic flowing fringes and tassle details.

Wrap up in textured luxury this season Photography zoe mcconnell

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24/01/2017 13:12

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24/01/2017 13:12

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24/01/2017 13:12

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24/01/2017 13:12

Make-up by Jane Bradley Statement accessories and knitwear by Hayley Menzies hayleymenzies.com

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24/01/2017 13:12

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24/01/2017 13:12

TH E NEW A P P FO R A N EW B R E ED OF MAMAS

OLD TOWN HALL

Absolutely Mama is the exciting new parenting title for stylish, active, ambitious mums

3-5 March

Packed full of news, views and on-trend lifestyle content, Absolutely Mama is firmly focused on what mums really think, feel, want and need.

The magazine covers everything from the latest fashion and beauty to nutrition, technology and travel for families, and features contributions from some of Britain’s foremost parenting experts and baby brands - not to mention some truly inspirational mamas.

CHELSEA Admission £6 • 90 Exhibitors 10am - 6pm Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday & Sunday

Admit One FREE

READE OFFERR

Download the Mama app from iTunes now and subscribe to receive every issue in digital form before it hits the shops

Absolutely Mama Magazine

For free admission for one adult to the Desire fair, please complete and hand in on entry to the show.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. (Ref: Abs17)

Name

www.absolutely-mama.co.uk

Email

CIF_Desire_Chelsea17_277x90.indd 1 _CHELSEA_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 1

22/12/2016 17:56

25/01/2017 14:13

FASHION / MOODBOARD

PROJECTION

CANDLELIGHT

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to transform a venue can be by using projection.

It allows for total creativity and a chance to transform a blank canvas into literally anything!

Even a simple grid projection as shown above can create a striking artistic installation.

NEONS

Neon lights are always a cool addition to any party. We love working with God’s Own Junkyard to source and make our own. We love them so much we had our Lillingston logo created in pink for our office. godsownjunkyard.co.uk

EXTERIOR

Don’t forget to consider your surroundings. If you have the luxury of trees, hedges or even exterior buildings, then light them up.

Tea lights are an incredibly budget-friendly way to create a magical ambience. En masse they create a show-stopping, warm, twinkling glow.

Candlelight is key to creating a magical atmosphere for dinners and parties; not only does it provide an ethereal glow but candles allow you to style your event with intoxicating scent. We recently commissioned our own handcrafted porcelain candles from Abalon and had them filled with incredible scented wax from Mrs Todd Candles. Their fragrant glow adds a touch of magic to any party. abalonstar.com, mrstoddcandles.com

LET THERE BE LIGHT Sophie Stuart, Lillingston's Head of Creative, reveals how to use light to bring your party or wedding to life lillingston.co.uk @lillingstonparties

C R E AT I V E LIGHTING

SHADES AND I N S TA L L AT I O N S

Light installations are a great way to make the most of high ceilings within a venue or structure. We are currently working on a series of large wicker shades woven for us by an artist in Wales. Hiring vast vintage crystal chandeliers is also enormously effective for adding stardust to any party.

LED screens are phenomenal at a party. We combine versatile LED panels of light with our bespoke content to create a surreal moving surface. Most recently we used them to draw attention to a beautiful bar and back bar.

45 NH_FEB17_LILLINGSTON_.indd 45

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 12:27

Lose yourself in the Crown Jewels The treasures that united the kingdom

Book online now to save Nearest tube Tower Hill

HRP CROWN.indd 1

Royal Collection Trust Š 2017, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

18/01/2017 17:28

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p. 48

TREND: DEEP PURPLE p. 53

LEADING LADY Photographed by David Sims, styled by Katie Grand and fronted by Winona Ryder; Marc Jacobs' latest beauty campaign is a seriously star-studded affair. Inspired by one of the designers’ favourite films, The Last Year at Marienbad, this artistic campaign exudes plenty of enigmatic Parisian glamour. marcjacobsbeauty.com

47 CHIS_Feb17_BEAUTY OPENER.indd 47

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:27

b e au t y R e v i e w

Perfect pedicures, age-defying skincare and the best date night-ready smokey eye palettes W o r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

MARGARET DABBS AT E S P A L I F E

Whitehall Place, SW1A Wo r d s L E A F A R B U T H N OT

F

eet have a hard time of it during winter - constantly moving from hot to cold can leave them in a bad way.

Sometimes a simple pedicure just doesn't cut it.

The beautiful Corinthia Hotel has a spa that has started a pioneering new treatment for ailing feet. It's called a "medical pedicure" and was dreamed up by internationally renowned foot specialist, Margaret Dabbs. The pedicure lasts about an hour and includes a one-onone session with a trained podiatrist. When I arrive for my treatment, it is apocalyptically wet outside, and the quiet, luxurious spa is a real haven.

The staff who work there are kind and professional and ask just enough questions to make me feel welcome, but not so many I feel badgered after a gruelling day at work.

The podiatrist says my feet are in decent nick - apart from some dead skin, which he removes matter-of-factly. Most of the pedicure happens in a private room, which saves patients from being self-conscious as someone scrutinises their toes.

After the consultation my hands and feet are given extra love by an experienced beauty technician who buffs and rehydrates my nails, then paints them.

I allow the polish to dry in the main spa area, which has sleeping pods and loungers.

Afterwards my feet feel incredibly soft and the nail polish lasts for at least two weeks. I'll be back. â—† M A R GA R E T DA B B S LO N D O N AT E S PA L I F E AT CO R I N T H I A Whitehall Place, SW1A, 0207 321 3050 margaretdabbs.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Feb17_Beauty notes.indd 48

Under Cover Nars

From the brand that brought you cult classics, including The Multiple and Orgasm Blush, comes Soft Matte Complete Concealer, the makeup artist approved cover-up to invest in now. Coming in 16 shades, Nars’ new formula is ideal for all skin types and will offer sufficient coverage without the cakey finish. Plus, with the addition of hyaluronic acid, this product will keep your skin hydrated all day long. narscosmetics.com

48 24/01/2017 12:30

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

5

HEAVENLY HAIR Cloud Nine

of the best

Achieving this year's 'undone' styling look is not an easy feat for the average woman, however with Cloud Nine’s wave wand you’ll be nailing mussed-up waves in your sleep. This ingenious wide-barrelled hair tool creates loose waves effortlessly, taking you from day to night with ease. cloudninehair.com

ROMANTIC SMOKEY EYE PALETTES

1

AGELESS APPEAL La Prairie

Line Interception Power Duo is La Prairie’s latest innovation in its fight against ageing.

Targeting wrinkles at their inception, this two-step day and night intensive formula offers an alternative to professional procedures, and in just two weeks can make a real difference to your complexion.

Youthful, glowing skin here we come. laprairie.com

2

SHINE BRIGHT Windle & Moodie

Windle & Moodie’s Light Shine Spray was developed in the world of editorial styling where instant shine was needed to give hair camera-ready glamour. Now we can have the power of the professionals in our hands with this weightless spray. Apply to lengths for a healthy shimmer, or simply spray onto ends for tousled chic. windleandmoodie.com

4

editor's

PICK SKIN SAVIOUR Healgel

Whether it’s chapped lips, dry elbows or dehydrated dermis, Healgel is the multi-tasking wonder product we’re going mad for. This non-oily aqueous gel has been created to soothe and repair stressed skin and features a plethora of skin-loving ingredients. We use ours as a intensive moisturising night mask for baby soft skin come morning. healgel.co.uk

49 Chis_Feb17_Beauty notes.indd 49

3 5

1. CHANEL, MULTI-EFFECT QUASAR EYESHADOW, £40; chanel.com 2. LANCÔME, HYPNÔSE PALETTE, £38; lancome.com 3. CHARLOTTE TILBURY, LUXURY PALETTE IN THE GOLDEN GODDESS, £38; charlottetilbury.com 4. MAC, VELUXE PEARLFUSION SHADOW IN GREENLUXE, £25; maccosmetics.co.uk 5. NARS, NARSISSIST MATTE/SHIMMER EYESHADOW PALETTE, £39; narscosmetics.com

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:30

LUXE BRITISH BRIDAL WEAR MADE IN ENGLAND

HALFPENNY.indd 1

19/09/2016 16:50

FASHION / WEDDINGS

AISLE BE BOUND Win tickets to the spring Quintessentially Weddings Atelier Wo r d s p e a r l b oy d

W

here can you discover wedding collections from names such as Julien MacDonald, Vivienne Westwood, Suzanne Neville, Sassi Holford, Phillipa Lepley, Harrods, Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, La Perla and Bentley?

The answer is at The Quintessentially Weddings Atelier, a twice-yearly luxury wedding event that brings together the finest designers and artisans in the wedding industry.

The first Atelier was held in 2014 and since then the event has been hosted at some of the world’s grandest hotels

and wedding venues, including The Dorchester, Claridge’s and Somerset House in London, and the palatial St Regis in Dubai. The 2017 Atelier takes place at iconic London hotel The Langham, where the Grand Ballroom and the Rose Garden will be transformed into a magical wedding wonderland.

The Atelier team hand-select all brands to ensure the experience offers brides and grooms only the most exclusive and talented dress designers, florists, jewellers, gastronomes and craftspeople from across the spectrum of elite wedding planning.

Planning a wedding should be almost as much fun as the day itself, so the Atelier has been carefully designed to be a destination event, the perfect place for a bride to escape with her fiancé, bridesmaids, mum or best friend for some serious wedding inspiration. Indulge your imagination and touch, taste and try as you idly browse with a glass of champagne, or spend time face-to-face with suppliers.

You can discover custom-made silk invitation gift boxes, exquisite couture bridalwear, breathtaking cakes, lavish floral displays and many more remarkable details that will define your special day.

51 NH_Feb16_Weddings.indd 51

Brands taking part this year will be announced during February – register at quintessentiallyatelier.com to be the first to know. Combining finesse and impeccable taste, the Quintessentially Weddings Atelier is the ultimate destination for distinguished brides and grooms wishing to curate their own exceptional luxury wedding. ◆

1 0 PA I R S O F T I C K E T S T O G I V E AWAY T O T H E L U X U R Y B R I DA L E V E N T OF THE YEAR The Quintessentially Wedding Atelier will help you curate your own luxury fairytale wedding, and we are delighted to have 10 pairs of tickets worth £70 per pair to give away.

H OW TO E N T E R Visit quintessentiallyatelier.com for more information about the event or to book online. #QWAtelier

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 11:50

YOUR HAIR. OUR CONCERN

HAIR • BEAUTY • LASER

Tel 020 7936 4005

STUDIO M.A_V2indd.indd 1

34 Bouverie Street, London, EC4Y 8AY

www.studio-ma.co.uk

15/11/2016 16:37

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS SOIGNE

Nail Polish - Robe Velours; £11 soignenails.com

TOM FORD

CLINIQUE

Creme Color For Eyes Midnight Violet; £30 tomford.com

Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm; £22 clinique.co.uk

DEBORAH LIPPMANN

Nail Polish - Dark Side of The Moon; £10 deborahlippmann.com

KJAER WEIS

Eye Shadow - Pretty Purple; £32; kjaerweis.com

MAC

Lipstick - Instigator; £15.50 maccosmetics.co.uk

KIEHL’S

Super Multi Corrective Cream; £48 kiehls.co.uk

CHARLOTTE TILBURY

Lip Cheat Lip Liner Bad Romance; £16 charlottetilbury.com

JINSOON

Nail Polish Risque; £14 jinsoon.com

CHANTECAILLE

24 Hour Waterproof Eyeliner - Orchid; £22 chantecaille.com

ORBIE

Lacquer High Shine Nail Polish - The Violet; £24 oribe.com

DEEP PURPLE

Be inspired by auberginecoloured hues this February

LAURA MERCIER

Creme Eye Liner - Violet; £19.50; lauramercier.com

B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

SURRATT ILLAMASQUA

Complement Eye Shadow Palette; £34 beautyinhighdefinition.com

Lipidique Peccadille; £22 cultbeauty.co.uk

HD BEAUTY

Eye Shadow - Vamp; £28 beautyinhighdefinition.com

53 Chis_Feb17_BeautyProducts_.indd 53

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:28

USPAAH.indd 1

15/12/2016 16:34

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PERFUME

This definitely APPEALS to both MEN and WOMEN Majoullier, which is an extract with solvent. The essential oil has a more uplifting scent than other myrrhs from Africa. It’s more immediate, more bracing and a bit spicier. The resinoid meanwhile is very complex and has so many facets that it’s almost a perfume on its own. It has a resinous effect like incense, but it’s a bit warmer and woodier. It reminds me of caramelised sugar, maple syrup and sun-baked tree sap.

ABS: What does Tonka Bean bring to the fragrance and why was this chosen?

MB: Tonka is one of my favourite

On the

SCENT

Absolutely quizzes Mathilde Bijaoui about her new fragrance for Jo Malone London

asked me to work on the myrrh project I was so excited and honoured. Jo Malone London has a strong signature process of creative development - every perfumer I know would like to work with them because of the immersive collaboration.

I really loved the story of the myrrh and how it is harvested, and it was exciting to work with the exclusive resinoid that smelt so unique. Tonka is

ABS: What was your first impression of this particular Myrrh note?

MB: In this perfume we have two different

extractions of the myrrh. One is the essential oil, which is made from a distillation. And the other is the exclusive resinoid from Namibia made by Serge

Myrrh & Tonka Cologne Intense by Jo Malone London, £105 for 100ml; jomalone.co.uk

one of my favourite ingredients too, so it was such a wonderful combination to play with. My style of having short formulas, clarity and simplicity was a great fit for this particular fragrance.

55 NH_Feb17_Jo_Malone_Q&A.indd 55

ABS: How would you describe Myrrh & Tonka as it warms and develops on the skin?

MB: Right at the top there is a hint of

lavender and a little floral to make the opening effect comforting and voluptuous.

The big, rich heart and base note of myrrh is sensual and balsamic, with hints of amber and liquorice. And the tonka brings generosity. There is also a touch of vanilla, cypriol and gaiac wood, which together deliver a smoky tobacco note to the perfume. It’s a fragrance that’s quite linear: that means that from the top to the bottom it more or less stays the same.

It’s very stable in its evolution, and that’s something quite rare in perfumery. It’s sensual and addictive, captivating and mesmerising. 

Interview eve herbert

ABSOLUTELY: What were your initial thoughts on the brief for this scent?

MATHILDE BIJAOUI: When I was first

ingredients, not just for perfumery but for cooking too. It’s an edible, addictive and gourmande note without being sickly-sweet. It helps to give a natural balsamic ‘oriental’ note to the myrrh, and a feeling of sophistication and strength to the fragrance, which is so important for the Cologne Intense collection. That feeling of addiction and carnal richness is very much down to the tonka. And I love that it’s not too feminine. In fact most masculine ‘fougere’ fragrances include tonka, so overall this definitely appeals to both men and women.

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:09

LISA’S KITCHEN & BAR

Home-style Scandinavian cuisine & cocktails prepared with modern simplicity Live Music

THURSDAY: Jazz • FRIDAY & SATURDAY: Lisa’s Jukebox • SUNDAY: Jazz 020 8964 8293 | bookings@lisasportobello.com | lisasportobello.com

LISA'S.FEB.indd 1

25/01/2017 12:47

> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL: ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS, PINK FIZZ AND VALENTINE'S MACARONS

p. 58

ASIAN FLAVOU RS Be transported to Asia with China: The Cookbook. The vast tome of more than 650 recipes is a shortcut to authentic Chinese cooking, from popular staples like Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs and Dim Sum to lesser-known regional classics like Fujian Fried Rice and Jiangsu’s Drunken Chicken. £29.95, Phaidon Press; phaidon.com

57 Chis_Feb17_Food_Opener.indd 57

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:17

Fo o d f o r t h o u g h t

GRAPE NEWS

Wine recommendations for February

kitchen

CONFIDENTIAL London’s food news and delicious things to see you through February Wo r d s H A N N A H H O P K I N S

By B E R RY B R OS . & R U D D

BERRY BROS. & RUDD CHAMPAGNE ROSE NV £33 Perfectly balanced and richly structured, this is an exuberant and beautifully fragrant sparkling wine, with red berries and other summer fruits dancing harmoniously on the palate. The perfect pink for the person you love this Valentine’s Day. ◆

GOOD ORDINARY CLARET 2014 WITH LIMITED EDITION LABEL

BY LUKE EDWARD HALL £9.95 Good Ordinary Claret is our best-selling wine, and for the second year we have released a parcel of this popular wine with limited edition labels.

The name Good Ordinary Claret first used in the 1960’s when Berry Bros. & Rudd first came up with idea for an own label range. This wine brilliantly highlights the sheer drinkability of modern red Bordeaux. ◆

2014 GIBSON BRIDGE PINOT GRIS RESERVE, MARLBOROUGH £15.50 New Zealand Pinot Gris tends to veer towards the Alsace (rather than Italian) style, and this is case in point.

This single-vineyard wine is rich and round, with hints of apricot and spice alongside green pear and a mineral thread. It is full, fleshy with a concentration of fruit that lasts in the mouth and would make it delicious with creamy dishes. ◆

Thai Guy Kiln

Smoking Goat founder Ben Chapman has once again caused a stir with his latest opening Kiln. As the name suggests, grilled dishes are cooked over an open fire, while plates inspired by the Thai borderlands are packed with spices. kilnsoho.com

bbr.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_CH_Feb17_Food_Notes.indd 58

58 25/01/2017 10:41

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

GIN DREAMS The Distillery

The hotly-anticipated Gin Distillery - from the team behind Portobello Road Gin - has now opened in Notting Hill. The four-floor mecca packs in two bar/kitchens, a gin making experience (The Ginstitute), gin museum, shop and even boutique guest rooms.

186 Portobello Road, W11 the-distillery.london

TO P 5

ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS

editor’s

PICK LOVE FOOD Pierre Hermé Macarons

Make a splash this Valentine’s Day with a beautiful box of 18 macarons from Pierre Hermé. Voted the World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2016, he has won over crowds with his chocolate boxes and melt-in-the mouth macarons. This latest collection, based on the impish character of Cupidon, is no exception. pierreherme.com

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner it’s time to lock down a table reservation. Make this the year you really treat yourself and your other half with our picks for dining in the capital.

01

CLOS MAGGIORE Romantic settings don’t get more splendidly over the top than Clos Maggiore, which comes bedecked with a forest of white blossoms, fairy lights and candles. If you can peel your eyes away from the décor, sample their Provençal-inspired menu, with dishes like pollock fillet and gazpacho.

closmaggiore.com

02

ALAIN DUCASSE AT THE DORCHESTER One of the world’s most decorated chefs, Alain Ducasse’s incomparable French cuisine - served in a suitably pared-back restaurant - is where to book if you're really looking to impress (and don't mind blowing the budget.)

WINE O’CLOCK Enfant Terrible

The brains behind Michelin-starred Pidgin have opened this teeny tiny wine bar, a stripped-back space with 12 metal counter stools and shelves stocked with today’s bottles. A barbershop by day and bar by night, the new opening has a daily changing wine list, cocktails and bar snacks. etbarlondon.com

alainducasse-dorchester.com

03

BOB BOB RICARD At Bob Bob Ricard there is a palpable energy and sense of fun that you will struggle to find elsewhere. Slip into one of the Orient Express railcar-inspired booths and ‘press for champagne’ – trust us, you won’t be disappointed.

bobbobricard.com

04

SKATE & DINE Queens Ice & Bowl

The iconic ice rink and bowling alley Queens Skate Dine Bowl has reopened with cocktails, DJs and diner-style eats – the perfect hangout in the heart of swinging London.

Along with an ice rink and 12 bowling lanes, you can expect a diner and two bars, stocked with cocktails, wine and craft beer.

17 Queensway, W2 queensiceandbowl.co.uk

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PETERSHAM NURSERIES Housed within the Petersham Nurseries garden centre, the café has rustic charm galore, complete with a stately greenhouse vibe, meadow on its doorstep, and mostly Italian cooking.

petershamnurseries.com

05

MARIANNE London’s smallest fine dining restaurant seats just 14 people and serves divine desserts like lemon cream and raspberry sorbet, adorned with a tiny decorative elderflower.

mariannerestaurant.com

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25/01/2017 14:38

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RED CURRY PASTE Ser ves 7

Makes 1/2 cup (4 oz/120 g) Cook time: 10 minutes, plus soaking time I n g r e d i e nt s • 14 dried red bird’s eye chilis, seeded • 1 teaspoon ground coriander • ½ teaspoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon white peppercorns • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon chopped galangal • ½ teaspoon chopped cilantro (coriander) root* • 1 tablespoon finely chopped or grated kaffir • lime zest ¼ cup (0.5 oz/15 g) finely sliced lemongrass • 1½ shallots, chopped • 4 cloves garlic • 1½ teaspoons shrimp paste If you can’t find cilantro with the roots still attached, just use the stems and double the quantity called for.

M e th o D 1 Soak the dried chilis in a bowl of warm water for 15 minutes or until rehydrated, then drain and chop.

Set aside.

Spice it up Quick & easy Thai recipes Wo r d s & P h o t o g r a p h y jean-pierre gabriel

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2 Toast the coriander and cumin in a small pan over medium heat for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Transfer to a mortar, add the white peppercorns, and pound with a pestle until the peppercorns are finely ground.

Remove from the mortar and set aside.

(Alternatively, combine the ingredients in a spice grinder and pulse until finely ground.)

3 Add the chopped chilis and salt to the mortar and pound until smooth.

Gradually add the galangal, cilantro root, kaffir lime zest, lemongrass, shallots, and garlic and continue to pound until smooth. Add the shrimp paste and toasted spice mix and pound until smooth and thoroughly combined. (Alternatively, combine the ingredients in a food processor and pulse to form a smooth paste.)

4 If not using right away, store airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. ◆

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FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES

CRAB FRIED RICE Ser ves 2

Cook time: 15 minutes I n g r e d i e nt s • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil • 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1 egg, beaten • 1 cup (175 g) Steamed Jasmine Rice 4 oz/100 g crabmeat ½ onion, diced • 4 tablespoons diced carrot • ½ tomato, diced • 2 scallions (spring onions), chopped • 1 tablespoon soy sauce • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar • 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 sprigs cilantro (coriander) • chopped juice of 1 lime Fo r s e rv i n g : 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced 2 scallions (spring onions) lime wedges

THAI SPRING ROLLS Makes 20 rolls Cook time: 25 minutes

FO R TH E SAU C E • 1 cup (250 ml) Tamarind Puree • 5 dried chilis, soaked • 3 shallots • 1 tablespoon soy sauce • ½ cup (100 g) jaggery, palm sugar, or light brown sugar • 7 cloves garlic • 1 tablespoon Fermented Soybeans FO R S P R I N G R O LL S • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil • 1 cup (4 oz/120 g) shredded jicama • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce • 20 spring roll wrapper sheets • 2 cups (4 oz/120 g) shredded lettuce • 2 cups (4 oz/120 g) boiled bean sprouts • 1 cup (0.5 oz/15 g) crispy pork rind, coarsely chopped 2 tablespoons Fried Shallots • 4 oz/100 g roasted pork, thinly sliced • 20 cooked shrimp (prawns), halved lengthwise M e th o d 1 To make the sauce, pound all the ingredients together in a mortar with a pestle until smooth. (Alternatively, combine the ingredients in a food

processor and pulse to form a smooth paste.) 2 Heat the sauce in a wok over medium heat, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened. Remove from the heat and cool. 3 To make the spring rolls, heat the oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the jicama and oyster sauce and sauté for 30 seconds. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool. 4 Soften a spring roll wrapper in warm water and lay out on a work surface. Put a little of the lettuce, bean sprouts, pork rind, fried shallots, and jicama in the center of the wrapper.

Add a little sauce and top with a slice of roasted pork and 2–3 shrimp slices. Fold the bottom of the wrapper up and over the filling. Fold the left and right sides into create a package. Roll the package up toward the top and brush a little water on the top edges of the wrapper to stick the package together. Repeat until you have used up all the fillings.

Cut the rolls in half and serve with the remaining sauce. ◆

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M e th o d : 1 Heat the oil in a wok over medium heat.

Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

Add the egg and stir until half-cooked.

Increase the heat to medium high, add the rice, crabmeat, onion, carrot, tomato, and chopped scallions and stir-fry for 2 minutes, or until cooked. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar and stir-fry for another 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with the cilantro and season with the lime juice.

Serve with cucumber, whole scallions, and lime wedges. ◆

Quick and Easy Thai Recipes is published

by Phaidon, £19.95

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 11:44

INSPIRE DESIGN COMPLETE

Award winning specialist kitchen & bathroom studio 148-150 Penwith Road, London, SW18 4QB 020 8012 8140 • oceanhomedesigns.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK / REVIEWS

MESSAPICA NW10 Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

rom the team behind Queens Park's Ostuni comes Messapica, a baby sister to the Puglian favourite. It's an interesting replacement for Austen's, the previous inhabitant, whose Deep South meaty dishes avoided all vegetables, because here the fare is mostly salads and smoothies. Clearly the folk of Chamberlayne Road were crying out for more greens – and now here they are, in the form of Messapica's appealing salad bar. Order a mixed box and they'll fill it with colourful options – on our visit there was a delicious cauliflower, beansprout and chilli, a Caesar salad and a selection of arancini plus a delicious gnocchi and chicken escalopes. A vast blackboard is dedicated to juices and smoothies, offering so many combinations that it's tiring even thinking about them. We enjoy a beetroot, carrot, apple and ginger and spend a leisurely couple of hours in the stylish space. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is a great new spot – and the coffee's excellent too. u

F

The Common NW10

Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

W

hen a derelict office block takes on a new lease of life, who could fail to be delighted?

This lone canalside building is now a slick residential unit housing several hundred people in small self-contained units under the mantra ‘collective living’. Promising to redefine the ‘way people choose to live’ it’s somewhere between a hotel and a hall of residence, and despite its slightly offgrid location, takeup for rooms at The Collective is strong. The Common has a large canalside terrace complete with an outdoor pizza kitchen. Inside, the feel is friendly and community-focused, with décor along the usual urban industrial lines, all reclaimed tiles, filament light bulbs and concrete. The menu is crowd-

pleasing and safe, the collective living ethos reflected in a focus on sharing plates and discounts for groups. On our visit, we sit in an intimate booth and enjoy a large plate of tortilla chips and dips, then a burger (top marks) and a whole halibut from the day’s specials, which was tasty but easily confused with a sharing plate on account of its vast size.

There’s a good children’s menu and an attractive (though possibly a bit pricey) wine list – and the wood-fired pizzas brought in from outside (slightly concerned for the lonely chef outside in the chill) are delicious; we note that there’s a two-for-one deal on Tuesdays. The Common is a welcome addition. 

Clearly the FOLK OF

T H E C O M M O N O L D OA K Old Oak Lane, NW10; 020 3845 642; thecommonoldoak.co.uk

MESSAPICA 109 Chamberlayne Road, NW10 masseriagroup.co.uk

CHAMBERLAYNE ROAD were crying out for GREENS

The feel

is FRIENDLY & communityFOCUSED

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24/01/2017 15:21

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Box Fresh Recipe boxes are gaining popularity among urban kitchen novices. We experiment with five - and discover a new world of convenience R e v i e w e d b y A b s o l u t e ly

Gousto

G

ousto’s model allows us to choose recipes week by week from the appealing selection on their website, so you're sure to get food you actually fancy eating. Everything arrives beautifully boxed up, portioned out and chilled by a miraculous wool-and-ice combo. Recipe cards are well-designed and easy to follow, as well as being robust enough to keep. The suppers were quick to make; among our choices were a satisfying feta and roasted grape salad with freekeh, and a one-pot African wonder with chicken thighs, nuts, sweet potato and rass el hanout. It’s an admirable service, not only for the convenience but also for the variety of ingredients and ideas you can add to your own repertoire. The only real issue we had was with the meat portions: one chicken thigh each wasn’t enough for us so I’d recommend keeping a large bag of oven chips on standby for those with larger appetites. £5.83 per portion, gousto.co.uk

cardboard box. The instructions are easy to follow and the ingredients packaged to make the cooking process more efficient, however those wanting a speedy cooking experience should look elsewhere, as Abel & Cole’s recipes contain a fair amount of processes and components. The final result was a warming and nourishing plate of food, packed full of veg and lifted by fresh notes of ginger, turmeric and tahini - ideal for new year diets with added cold-weather comfort.  £6.50 per portion, abelandcole.co.uk

Abel & Cole

A

bel & Cole’s light recipe box is the ideal set up for time-poor city workers wanting to cut calories without the faff. All recipes are under 500 calories - we tried turmeric rubbed pork with green rice, winter vegetable chilli with cavolo nero crisps and baked hake, cauliflower and kale tahini bowl - and come in a neatly packaged

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Mindful Chef

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FOOD & DRINK / HOME COOKING

Mindful Chef

D

escribing anything as ‘mindful’ began to feel a bit clichéd some time ago. But behind The Mindful Chef’s slightly annoying tone (there’s a bit of trite information about ‘natural’ foods) is a concept that’s based on quality. They are all about provenance, with all meat and fish coming from small West Country farms that supply places like Harrods, and healthy eating, with a focus on low-carb and dairy- and gluten-free foods. Recipe cards are elegant and while the ingredients don’t expect much input from your kitchen, we were expected to possess a spiralizer for Thai pork meatballs in courgetti soup (we did). Meals for two work out at £7 per head, and they offer lonely boxes for one at £9 per head. We enjoyed honey and ginger salmon skewers with rainbow slaw and brown rice, and next week’s recipes looked tempting too.  £6 per portion, mindfulchef.com

Hello Fresh

F

riends have raved about Hello Fresh lately. They say it’s lifted them out of a dinner rut and expands their children’s dietary repertoires. What’s not to like? Our family box is huge and contains four complete meals for four. Literally all they expect your kitchen to contain is salt, pepper and oil. So for instance Monday’s ‘chef-created recipe’ for minced lamb koftas with coconut pilaf and minty yoghurt includes a single clove of garlic, a tablespoon of curry powder in a tiny plastic pot, a lone cinnamon stick and a stock cube as well as one onion, one shallot and a measured four portions of basmati rice. All of these are surely staples in most family kitchens, but part of the point here is to eliminate the need for staples. Instructions are much more precise than regular recipes. They tell you,

Riverford Organic

for instance, how to chop an onion as if the target audience has never sliced a vegetable before. Which maybe they haven’t. These instructions are so easy to follow that you can divert your whole brain to focus on something else while you’re cooking, which is no bad thing. Everything is tasty and portions large enough to accommodate leftovers.  £4 per portion, hellofresh.com

Riverford

E

thically farmed and 100% organic, Riverford are champions of seasonal British produce. The vegetarian box aims to deliver flavourful recipes that are fresh and nourishing. Quinoa paella with peppers and onions packs a smoky punch while fennel and olive tagine with spicy cous cous delivers an interesting mix of textures. Each recipe is easy to follow and results in a rich, hearty and satisfying country kitchen meal – which can’t be said for a lot of vegetarian cuisine – though they are time-consuming. Parsnips Molly Parkin requires multiple pans and dishes, numerous processes as well as both stovetop and oven cooking. We'll try their Quick box next time.  £5.65 per portion, riverford.co.uk

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THE VERDICT If you can stomach the packaging – admittedly most of it, across the board, is recyclable – these recipe boxes are undoubtedly an easy option. We’re not convinced that anyone interested enough in food to order one wouldn’t already be in possession of a garlic clove or a bottle of balsamic, but in a world where people are apparently entering adulthood without ever having cooked an actual meal, they clearly have a place.

Saving you the effort of planning and shopping comes at a price – around £6 per head doesn’t sound bad but an amateur stab at costing these ingredients will reveal that markups are pretty hefty.

But there’s the price of convenience.

Overall, Hello Fresh probably wins for its idiotproof instructions and variety.

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 10:53

Made Exclusively For You

Established in 1962. Wharfside is the world-leading supplier of European Furniture. From dining to living, office, kitchen & bedrooms - all is made to your chosen specifications, woods and sizes.

EST. 1962

Shoreditch & Leatherhead 020 7253 3206 or 01372 379810

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21/12/2016 21/12/2016 16:54 12:25

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

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BEDROOM POLITICS

p.74

HOUSE OF PLANTS

p. 78

CAFÉ SOCIETY Burberry have teamed up with The New Craftsmen once again to present a celebration of British craft and creativity at their all-day dining and gifting destination, Thomas’s. This will include events, activities and exclusive products. thenewcraftsmen.com

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:25

10 of the best

Lights

Modern ideas, designs and styles for your home Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

DAVEY LIGHTING

The Hex Pendant, £359; uk.originalbtc.com

SCP

Nelson Bubble Lamp, £350; scp.com

TOM DIXON

Boom Task Light, £185; tomdixon.net

DAVID HUNT LIGHTING

Sputnik Table Lamp, £POA; davidhuntlighting.co.uk

HABITAT

Cinders triple drop light, £160; habitat.co.uk

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Floor Show V i v i e n n e We s t w o o d x T h e R u g C o m p a n y Known for her punk-inspired fashion creations and strident political views, British designer Vivienne Westwood has turned her hand to interiors with a collection for The Rug Company. The range includes the Thistle rug, a nod to her love for Scotland, made from hand knotted silk yarns on a Tibetan wool background and shown above. therugcompany.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES

GAME ON

Alexandra Llewellyn This stunning Desert-themed is no ordinary board game. Embellished with skulls, snakes and cacti made from hundreds of individual pieces of wood and playing pieces of mother of pearl and turquoise encased in brass, it is a real thing of beauty. Your move. £7,200; harveynichols.com

ORIGINAL BTC

Fin Large Pendant, £166; uk.originalbtc.com

editor’s

PICK LIGHT UP

Armitage Lamp This unusual lamp was originally designed by Edward Armitage in 1952 and has now been reproduced by his grandson, Joe. Characterful and elegant, the lamp can now be purchased with extra shades hand-printed by artist Marthe Armitage (Joe’s grandmother) making this a real family affair. armitagelamp.com

PHILIPPE STARCK

Bon Jour Unplugged Table Lamp, £225; conranshop.co.uk

must

HAVE LEE BROOM

Square Decanter Pendant, £240; johnlewis.com

BOTTOMS UP

McCarron & Co Wine-lovers take note: luxury interiors company McCarron & Co are here to build you the room of your dreams. Storing over 250 bottles and housed in a temperature controlled glass enclosure, your exclusive wine room can be built as an extension or quirky way to transform a spare room. Cheers. mccarronandco.com

JONATHAN ADLER

Globo Table Lamp, £995; uk.jonathanadler.com

LIBRA

WINTER WARMER

The Tripod Spotlight, £480; lightplanlighting.com

Bisque Radiators Source of both heat and style, Bisque Radiators come in a range of designs, shapes and colours including pastels and the Pantone of the Year.

For ultimate impact, opt for their Arteplano radiator in etched copper [pictured] which looks particularly striking against a dark wall. bisque.co.uk

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:29

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HOMES & INTERIORS / SHOPPING

2 5

New Interiors Destinations

01

Retail Therapy

A flurry of recent openings has come to Absolutely’s attention. Here are some of our favourite new shops Wo r d s H a n n a h H o p k i n s

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FR E T TE

I

talian linen expert Frette has opened a new London store, in collaboration with Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci of Dimore Studio.

Located on South Audley Street, in the heart of the city’s most distinguished retail quarter, the boutique showcases the brand’s traditionally sophisticated aesthetic. Shop for vintage glassware, vases and found objects - alongside a signature and seasonal collection of bed linens, bath linens, home décor and nightwear.  43 South Audley Street, W1 eu.frette.com

02

KARTELL

T

his is shaping up to be a stellar year for Italian brand Kartell, who opened their first London flagship store earlier this year. Described as a ‘mini department store,’ the shop is home to the brand’s Habitat lines as well as the table range, home fragrances and fashion collections. Expect plenty of plastic and a playful take on design, with pieces playing homage to the late designer Ettore Sottsass and his signature colorful geometric forms.  223 Brompton Road, SW3 kartell.com

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 10:38

Queen 660mm Etch-Coated Polish, Windsor Satin Nickel TRV

Tiles - www.originalstyle.com

Bespoke cast iron radiators | Made in England | www.castrads.com Visit our new flagship store 247 Fulham Road, Chelsea

www.castrads.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / SHOPPING

04• D E S I GN M US E UM S HO P

D 03 • ACH I L L E SALVAGN I

W

ith a long list of luxury residences and yacht interiors to his name, Salvagni has already attracted a dedicated clientele for his designs on both sides of the Atlantic, and now has opened a flagship gallery space in Mayfair. The Roman architect-turned-furniture designer makes use of a generous stock of skilled craftsmen, who create made-to-order pieces with a modernist touch, created with finely-worked materials such as mahogany, rosewood, royal oak and laurel. Also worth noting are his striking lighting designs, made with big, bold brass work.  12 Grafton Street, W1 achillesalvagni.com

esign fans are flocking to the hotly-anticipated new Design Museum in Kensington. The multimillion-pound, state-of-the-art development covers product, industrial, graphic, fashion and architectural design, but its two exciting new stores are also a must-visit for design-conscious Londoners. One offers a curated edit of design books and objects from established brands and emerging designers, while the second, larger shop - designed

by John Pawson - includes everything from furniture to ceramics. We’re big fans of the chairs and tables from Scandi brand HAY, vases from Studio Arhoj and lamps from Paul Smith, but the array of Nuuna graphic notebooks and The School of Life paperweights make great gifts too.  224 Kensington High Street, W8 designmuseumshop.com

3

05

MOOOI

D

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4 utch design brand Moooi has put down permanent roots in the British capital with the opening of its centrally-located brand store in May this year. The showroom offers a slice of Moooi’s impressive design theatrics, which are put on display each year at the Dutch brand’s spectacular Salone del Mobile showcase in Milan. In store, customers will find the 15-year-old brand’s classic pieces alongside its latest printed carpets. Among 2016’s new furniture and lighting introductions are showstoppers

by British designers such as Paul Cocksedge and Ross Lovegrove as well as London-based architect and designer Umut Yamac.  23 Great Titchfield Street, W1 moooi.com

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 10:38

1 heals.com

BEDROOM POLITICS T

01 • T H E D U V E T

We spend a large proportion of our lives in bed, so it’s important to get the comfort level right. Absolutely goes in search of the perfect combinations Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

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here are several options when it comes to choosing a duvet. Tog ratings determine warmth, while fillings can by synthetic, silk, wool, feather or down.

Some people prefer a heavier cover, others a lighter one. We recommend the marshmallow-like puffiness of pure Hungarian goose down, which is cloudlike and light but supremely warm and cosy while remaining breathable and allergy-free. Or why not upgrade to the even more luxurious (and significantly more expensive) Canadian white goose down, which is even snugglier? Double Hungarian goose down duvets from £180, soakandsleep.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / BEDROOMS

02 • T H E M AT T R E S S

I

f you are asking yourself: what would The Savoy do? then Savoir Beds is your answer. This London-based artisan bedmaker hand-crafted mattresses for the Savoy hotel over a century ago and they haven’t changed since then. Each one requires over 80 hours of skilled production; materials are natural and include horsehair, cotton and lambswool alongside hand-tied springs with carefully controlled tension. These are beds fit for kings. Alternatively, a new wave of mattresses is emerging and disrupting established values. New foamfilled mattresses come rolled up in boxes and offer a convenient and comfortable night’s sleep using advanced technical materials instead of artisan methods. Like Savoir’s, Casper’s mattresses are made

2 In TIMES of indecision, just ask YOURSELF: what would CLARIDGE’S do? in the UK, but unlike Savoir’s, they’re light enough to be delivered by bicycle.

A base of memory foam underneath a springy, breathable comfort layer creates a comfortable, supportive bed without the overheating qualities usually associated with foam – and they’ll even take it away if you don’t like it. Which will it be – traditional and natural or high-tech and cutting edge? savoirbeds.co.uk / casper.com

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3 03 • T H E P I L LOW

P

illows are controversial. Hard or soft? Square or rectangular?

Overstuffed or flexible? It’s very easy to set out to buy a new pillow and leave empty-handed due to the excess of choice. In times of indecision, just ask yourself: what would Claridge’s do? For the ultimate five star hotel quality pillow, try Beaumont & Brown, which modestly claims to produce the best bed linen in the world – and their favourite Savoy pillow is a mix of duck feather and down. For extra fluffiness, you can’t go wrong with pure Hungarian goose down, as found in the Swiss-made Edelweiss pillow from My Duvet & Pillow, which includes no feathers at all – just pure cloud fluff. Savoy Pillow, £55, beaumontbrown.com Edelweiss pillow, £100, myduvetandpillow.co.uk

04 • T H E S H E E T S

A

gain, controversial. Until recently it was widely accepted that the ultimate in luxury came in the form of percale cotton of the highest thread count. Five star hotels offer sheets with a thread count of 400, which feels incredibly smooth and silky and is hard to beat – unless you are of the linen persuasion.

Increasingly, linen has become the more desirable option, with stonewashed linen looking stylishly rumpled and feeling softer with each wash. Linen has the advantage of lasting longer than combed cotton because it’s at least 30% stronger; it also offers better temperature control, staying warm in winter and cool in summer due to its moisture absorbency and heat retention. Linen Me’s stonewashed bedlinen sets come in beautiful colours, all designed to improve with age.Sets from £119.99, linenme.com

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:05

NOCTURNE by Preface

Day and night Thanks to Gautier’s new design, you can transform your living room into a comfortable sleeping space in the blink of an eye. NOCTURNE

by PREFACE: a multimedia unit, a bed with a real mattress and a storage unit, all in one elegant, practical, space-saving piece.

Be inspired by our stylish range of kids, adult, living and dining room furniture online, or discover the world of Gautier at :

Gautier Chelsea

Gautier Chiswick

The Plaza, 535 Kings Road, London SW10 0SZ

140 Chiswick High Road, Chiswick, London W4 1PU

Tel. 020 7221 2393

Tel. 020 3581 5110

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HOMES & INTERIORS / MOODBOARD

MY INSPIRATIONS Jessica Mason, founder of Piglet in Bed, specialising in stonewashed linen bedding p i g l e t i n b e d .c o m Franz Kline's Torches Mauve

MY FAVOURITE PIECE FROM MY CURRENT COLLECTION…

Katharine Hepburn

I am a little obsessed with all things grey so I would have to choose our grey stonewashed natural linen duvet cover set. I like to break it up with a couple of extra white linen pillowcases.

MY FAVOURITE DESIGNER I was recently introduced to the work of Italian designer, photographer and architect Carlo Mollino. I especially love his desks.

pigletinbed.com's grey linen bedding Jessica Mason

Vipp Shelter

am now really enjoying being back home in the wet. A soggy weekend in the Lake District is ideal.

The Lake District

MY SIGNATURE SCENT

I really like unisex fragrances and my favorite is Aesop’s Mystra.

MY STYLE ICON

I never really feel like myself in dresses (and don’t get me started on tights) so I usually look to menswear for most style inspiration. Katherine Hepburn remains the reigning queen of androgynous dressing.

MY FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

Desk by Carlo Mollino

I spent the last five years living in the Middle East and I

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MY FAVOURITE PIECE OF ART The abstract expressionist Franz Kline is a favorite.

I especially like his work that incorporates colour such as Torches Mauve.

MY FAVOURITE BUILDING

The Vipp Shelter is my absolute dream home. I love the idea of compact, prefabricated houses dropped into the wilderness.

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:36

POTTED H I S T O RY

Create your own miniature desert landscape with this extract from House of Plants by Rose Ray & Caro Langton

O

pen container gardens are a great way to create a miniature desert scene, especially if you only have one really bright surface to display your favourite succulents. More elaborate than grouping potted plants, a container garden allows you to play with adding textured elements such as dried lichen, pieces of preserved wood and precious crystals and rocks, which add a magical dimension to the scene while breaking up the complex geometric forms of different desertdwelling species of succulents.

Since desert cacti and succulents as a whole are slow-growing and require similar care, they work very well arranged together in one container.

We try to include plants of different shapes, colours and textures to give each one its own focal point. For example, try contrasting juicy aloes with spiky cacti, colourful echeverias with hairy haworthias or low-lying lithops with

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1 Try contrasting

COLOURFUL echeverias with HAIRY

haworthias

sculptural euphorbias. Most importantly, pick plants that have similar needs for light, water and humidity so that the container is easy to care for as a whole.

When it comes to choosing a container, there are a few factors to keep in mind.

These plants do not like to be enclosed and prefer to feel free surrounded by warm, dry air, so pick something relatively open. Try to select a watertight container (if you are using one made of wood,

either apply a thin layer of polyurethane varnish or line the base with a sheet of plastic). Alternatively, a simple metal or plastic tray, dish or bowl will work too: young cacti and succulents have very shallow root systems, so the container doesn’t have to be deep, around 10cm/4in.

Our favourite places to find interesting containers are secondhand shops and flea markets, where we often uncover objects with a charming backstory.

After a few months, you may find that some plants are growing while others stay seemingly unchanged. You can prune any overgrown areas with some clean, sharp scissors, eventually replacing those that outgrow the container. u Extract taken from House of Plants by Rose Ray and Caro Langton, published by Frances Lincoln, £20

TOOLS & MATERIALS C o n t a i n e r • F i n e D r a i n a g e S t o n e s • Ac t i v a t e d C h a r c o a l • Wo o d e n S p o o n Cacti & Succulent Compost • Selection Of Cacti & Succulent Plants D e c o r a t i v e S t o n e s & Ac c e s s o r i e s • G a r d e n i n g G l o v e s

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HOMES & INTERIORS / PLANTS

1

P

2

ut on gardening gloves, if you like. Fill your container with stones to a depth of around 5cm/2in. Add a generous scattering of activated charcoal and mix it into the stones so that it is evenly distributed. This base will allow drainage for your plants, filtering any stagnant water and protecting their roots from sitting in water and developing rot.

2

F

4

or the next layer, add 5cm/2in of cacti and succulent compost.

At this point it is a good idea to consider the final position of the container: you may want to rotate it as you begin planting to make sure the plants will be visible from the angle you are displaying the container. You can add different depths of compost in different sections of the container to create a more contoured scene.

Pick plants that HAVE SIMILAR needs for LIGHT, WATER and HUMIDITY

4

F

ill in any holes with extra compost. Add a final layer of drainage stones or other decorative elements to complete the scene. Once you have added all of your plants and decoration use a soft paintbrush to clean off any soil that may have collected on the plants.

3

U

se your fingers, spoon or a small trowel to make a hole in the compost for your first plant to sit in. Play around with positioning if the plant does not look right immediately. Secure compost around the plant’s roots once you are happy with how it looks. Make sure to leave enough space between each plant to allow for some root growth and a good circulation of air. Gently press down the compost around each plant, removing any large air pockets, and secure them in their final positions.

5

C

arefully water the entire surface with a spouted watering can or pipette. Make sure not to splash any leaves or stems. To determine when it is time to next water the container, check the moisture level of the soil with your finger and only water once it feels completely dry. Remember, desert cacti and other succulents are at their happiest in direct light, so choose the brightest spot in your home for your desert landscape, perhaps next to a window or under a skylight.

3

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:33

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

Home

COOKING Architect Alex Michaelis’ own kitchen blends technology with architecture and design Wo r d s P e a r l B oy d

W

here previously stood an old MOT garage, Michaelis Boyd has imagined and built an unexpected and visually captivating London home. Founded in 1995, architecture firm Michaelis Boyd has developed a reputation for simple and elegant designs, with one of the firm’s most recent iconic projects including the design of 225 apartments for the regeneration of London landmark Battersea Power Station.

This building in west London is home to architect Alex Michaelis and his family, who previously lived in an equally unexpected – though very different – London house, also designed by him.

Known as the 'underground house', most of its living space was below ground, due to planning restrictions limiting the plot to a single storey build.

In his new overground home, Michaelis has stayed true to his passion for pursuing excellence in all aspects of design.

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Alex Michaelis's west London house

A FIREMAN’S pole connects the KITCHEN with the FLOOR above

A unique property, complete with rounded towers, rooftop terraces and outdoor swimming pool, the kitchen is undoubtedly the heart of the home for this vibrant family of two adults and seven children. With a fireman’s pole connecting the kitchen with the floor above, the kitchen is a constant hub of activity that centres on food: designed to entertain family and friends alike.

Alex comments: “We use the sear hob most days - it is especially good for big Sunday breakfasts with lots of friends and children. Seared eggs and bacon for 18.”, as the highly intelligent systems introduce new lines and dimensions into the appliance space while upholding professional standards. Alex felt strongly that the innovative systems reflected his design ethos for this personal project, noting that “the marrying of Electrolux Grand Cuisine appliances with the stunning curved Bulthaup island unit works beautifully in the space.”

The sleek systems are the perfect choice to cater for the busy family. Home to a Stand Mixer, Gas Hob, Combination Oven, Blast Chiller, Sear Hob, Surround Induction Zone and Precision Vacuum

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HOMES & INTERIORS / KITCHENS

Sealer, the systems installed in the kitchen offer discerning home cooks Alex and Susanna the chance to utilise cooking methods previously only accessible to professional chefs. One revelation for the Michaelis household has been experimenting with the sous vide method, with Alex commenting “our favourite appliance is the vacuum sealer – it's lifechanging in terms of how we now cook”.

True to Michaelis’ previous design successes, the sleek and modern culinary systems installed in his new family home are offset by the rough walls, left deliberately unpainted with a plaster finish. Alex’s vision and vast experience

of designing and creating some of London’s most exclusive restaurants and residences has proved to be a winning combination. This new home blends technology with architecture and design, in a style that revolutionises the concept of the modern day kitchen and home cooking. u grand cuisine

Starting price for the cooking system including Combination Oven, Blast Chiller, Vacuum Sealer and the Induction Zone - is £43,000 and includes a personal chef advisory service. grandcuisine.com

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24/01/2017 11:56

MPW LONDON.indd 1

20/01/2017 09:56

> SMALL TALK – COLLABS AND GIFT IDEAS

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EDUCATION – NEW SENIOR SCHOOLS

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BEST FOOT FORWARD Mini Mocks, as the adorable name suggests, is a Swedish brand that specialises in leather kicks for kids. In addition to their moccasins, they also sell bags and hats for little ones. minimockshop.com

83 Chis_Feb17_KIDS OPENER.indd 83

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KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES

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LITTLE PRINTS Hugo Loves Tiki

One of the most playful brands around has amped up the colour and fun by adding mama sizes to much of its range of cool kids' clothing.

Just add Spring... mylittleshop.com

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SMALL TALK Exciting collaborations, gift ideas and togs for mother and child

SMALL WONDERS

Smalls x The Bright Company Smalls and The Bright Company have collaborated on this top, featuring the latter’s famous moon-face motif on one of the former’s luxe merino wool shortsleeves. Perfect for when the weather begins to thaw.

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Penguin, £12.99

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Amy & Ivor x C i s s y We a r s ¢ For a limited time, the acclaimed shoe designer and trendsetting boutique are offering five kinds of made-toorder footwear for littles in cool colourways of nude, platinum and black. ◆

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W

hat will happen when someone new seeks to join the list-obsessed Liszt family – someone who isn’t on any of their lists?

Read on as Mama Lizst, Papa Lizst, Winifred, Edward, Frederick and Grandpa learn how to make room in their lives for the unexpected guest – even the cat stuggles to adjust.

A whimsical and wonderful tale by acclaimed author Kyo Maclear and first-time picture-book illustrator Júlia Sardà, which somehow manages to combine The Royal Tenenbaums with An Inspector Calls and just a spalsh of The Addams Family. u

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:12

The FUTURE’S BRIGHT ~ Spotlighting the new collaboration between Stella McCartney Kids and smallable.com

Cat T-shirt, £44 Feline Jersey Shorts, £49

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Lion T-shirt, £44 Cat Swimming Shorts, £58 Cat Swimming Costume, £58

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Lion Sweatshirt, £58, and Jersey Bermuda Shorts, £49 Perforated Star Slip-ons, £96 Feline Jersey Dress, £61

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24/01/2017 14:56

Feline Sweatshirt, £61 Jersey Bermuda Shorts, £49 Perforated Star Slip-ons, £96

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24/01/2017 14:56

Feline Sweatshirt, £61 Feline Jersey Shorts, £49

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03/10/2016 14:30

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25/06/2013 18:14

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25/01/2017 14:13

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

Market forces

Three much-needed new senior schools are set to open in London this year. Absolutely applauds them Wo r d s A m a n d a C o n s ta n c e

W

hy are London’s senior schools like buses? You wait years for a new one and then three come along at the same time.

This September, three new senior London day schools will be opening their doors to pupils. Notting Hill Prep is opening a new senior school in west London (details are yet to be confirmed but it is thought that it will be in the Park Royal/ North Ealing area); the location of Fulham Prep School’s new senior school is currently a closely guarded secret but it is likely to be in south-west London. And Eaton Square School is opening in the very grand 106 Piccadilly, a Grade I-listed building in Mayfair.

The main driver for these openings is that London’s existing senior schools are hugely oversubscribed – 1,300 children, for example, sat the 11+ for Laytmer Upper in January 2016. “London is chocka”, says Sebastian Hepher, the current headmaster of Eaton Square School, who will be taking on the role of overseeing head of all the Eaton Square schools come September.

Neil Brooks, Fulham Prep School

“I’ve been head for 24 years in London,” says Hepher, “and moving on from prep is much harder now – particularly for boys.” There are far more prep schools, he explains, but not the corresponding number of places at senior schools. Anyone with a son of 11+ age in London will be aware that places for boys are very limited (partly because boys were traditionally sent away to public school), hence the hideous bottle neck at 11+.

“We’ve wanted to open a new school for the past five years,” says Hepher.

“The trickiest part was finding the right site.” 106 Piccadilly certainly has the wow

MOVING on from prep is MUCH HARDER now,

particularly

FOR BOYS

factor – Aatif Hassan, the boss of Minerva Education, the group behind Eaton Square Schools, admits he fought very hard for it. It’s a very impressive building, bang opposite Green Park and its W1 address will no doubt appeal to the international crowd.

The other reason for opening Eaton Square Upper was to get away from the “endless assessments” that children are now subjected to, says Hepher, because it will create an all-through school. “You will be able to join us at three and half,” says Hepher, “and stay until university if you want to.”

The school will be non-selective. All pupils, both internal and external will sit the ISEB pre-test when joining Eaton Square Upper, but only for setting purposes. And pupils arriving from other London preps will be interviewed.

The bid to create an all-through school is also behind the new Fulham Senior School.

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Eaton Square School

Like Eaton Square, Fulham has a pre-prep and prep, and pupils enrolled at Fulham Prep School will automatically receive a place at the senior school.

“It makes complete sense,” says Neil Brooks who will be head of the pre-prep, prep and senior schools. “The children won’t have to do the 11+. They can stay with us so it will alleviate anxiety.” Existing pupils will do the 13+ for setting purposes, and the school will maintain the 11 and 13+ for children from external schools.

Brooks was appointed head of FPS in December 2015, taking over from Jane Emmett who founded the school in the mid-90s. She has always wanted to create a senior school, but it was the acquisition of FPS by Inspired, an international education group that started in South Africa, that seems to have energized the move.

It remains to be seen if these new schools will take the heat out of the senior schools market. There are plenty of new preps opening in September, too, including a pre-prep for boys at Faulkner House, a new Wetherby Kensington and Eaton House Boy Prep opening in south Kensington. Demand may continue to outstrip supply for some years yet. ◆ nottinghillprep.com; fulhamprep.co.uk eatonsquareupper.school

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:09

LONDON

SALE UP TO 40% OFF

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> ROME: THE ETERNAL CITY

p.96

WHY EVERYBODY'S TALKING ABOUT CROATIA

p.100

ROMAN RICHES Lose yourself in the tangled lanes, awe-inspiring art and vibrant street life of Rome's historic centre.

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 15:33

ROMAN holiday

Rome may not have been built in a day but you can see an awful lot of it in two, as Absolutely discovers Wo r d s C at h e r i n e H a l e s

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M

onti was once the red-light district of Rome but is now its trendiest area, with narrow, steep, paved streets and a huge range of restaurants and small shops. It has a lively atmosphere but is not noisy.

It is close to the Colisseum and other major sites but the side streets are not touristy. The best way to experience it is to live like a local, that is to take an apartment. onefinestay has a range of city apartments but the one we chose in Monti was both elegant and convenient.

The entrance from the street is by a traditional double door but the flat, where we are welcomed by two of onefinestay’s Rome team, is in contemporary style and spotless, a duplex with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a spacious open-plan living room and kitchen. You are given a welcome pack featuring real Italian coffee (and strict instructions on how to

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST Piazza Margana

make it) and some cold sparkling wine ‘better than Prosecco’ but in truth this is a residential area, with little one-stop shops and nearby bars galore, so you do not need much.

To help you explore you are given a smart phone to keep for your stay loaded with information. However, as the man from onefinestay put it – in the nicest possible way–: ‘I recommend you get lost.’

The joy of being so central is that many of the must-see sites are a just a few minutes walk away. Never having been to Rome I wanted to tick them off.

Glimpsing world-famous monuments round corners or at the end of streets can make you feel as if you are on a film set. Being fully independent you can avoid being herded on and off buses and joining endless queues and still see a huge amount – in our case the Colisseum, the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill, the Trevi Fountain, the Pincio, (seat of the Italian government), the Spanish Steps and

Being fully independent YOU

CAN AVOID BEING HERDED on and off buses and JOINING ENDLESS QUEUES

contemplate them in peace from a pew.

With the smart phone to hand, plus the fact that, in spite of its seven hills, central Rome is quite small you can make your way through the city with minimal effort.

As part of its concierge service onefinestay recommends a range of restaurants and will help book and organise if required. However, we simply walked down the street to L’Asino d’Oro, (The Golden Donkey), one of those places that you think you are quite clever to find but then discover are well known to insiders. And deservedly so – delicious modern Roman food, reasonably priced and great service, with a genuine neighbourhood feel.

Having walked up at least four of the seven hills of Rome itself we felt we had earned some pampering, so on our second day we took a twenty minute taxi ride out of the city and up to the Waldorf Astoria Rome Cavalieri.

Via Capo di Bove

Rome Cavalieri

the Via Condotti, Rome’s Bond Street, all on foot before lunch. Take a stroll in the shade of the vast Borghese Gardens, where Napoleon’s beautiful sister Pauline lived, look at the house dedicated to the English romantic poets Keats and Shelley, or walk down the Corso, Rome’s Broadway, to the fountains of Piazza Navona. Then stop for some gelato before heading on to the banks of the River Tiber. As you go look into ancient basilicas, where great works of art like the Caravaggio in the Chiesa di Sant Agostino, by the Piazza Navona, with its altar by Bernini, who was also responsible for St Peter’s, seem more meaningful in situ than in a gallery. Better yet you can

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:40

Knightsbridge’s Best Kept Secret

Join us at The Capital Bar in 2017 for a unique whisky and cheese pairing, learn the art of mixology with a cocktail masterclass or relax with pre-dinner drinks mixed by our expert team led by Cesar Da Silva, before dining at Michelin starred Outlaw’s at The Capital.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL KNIGHTSBRIDGE

22-24 Basil Street, Knightsbridge SW3 1AT CAPITAL FEB.indd 1

020 7589 5171

www.capitalhotel.co.uk 18/01/2017 16:59

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST Via di San Martino Ai Monti

From its position high on a vertiginous bluff there are unrivalled views over the city of Rome and along the river to the Vatican. Built in the 1960s, the era of the Dolce Vita, when Rome was the epicentre of film and fashion, the world famous luxury hotel was beloved of Visconti and Fellini. It still has that pioneering sixties vibe but has been comprehensively updated, with palatial facilities, such as huge ballrooms with glittering chandeliers, and a fabulous spa. An opulent lunch of scrumptious amatriciana and crisp white wine at L’Uliveto and a relaxing afternoon by the pool on the blue and white striped loungers are just the thing after walking the streets. But this is Rome, where culture is central to existence and the hotel has its own individually curated and idiosyncratic art collection, with over a thousand objects from a Tiepolo tryptich to Nureyevs’ ballet costumes. Along landings and in the enticingly cool bars you may find yourself looking at pop art by Andy Warhol or an exquisite Beauvais tapestry.

Via del Boschetto

OUR ONEFINESTAY HOST told us in the

nicest possible way:

I RECOMMEND YOU GET LOST

While the huge and beautiful rooms of the Rome Cavalieri are a dream come true, staying in a city apartment is relaxing just because it soon becomes a home from home: you have freedom to do as you wish, so long as you obey the not very onorous house rules, so for a brief time you are living as a Roman. onfinestay’s offerings range from two bedroom, centrally located flats to sprawling houses on the outskirts.

One way or another I am definitely going back. Sadly I could not throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to wish on it.

It had been drained, not for maintenance but for a Fendi fashion show.

How Roman is that?

t r av e l d e ta i L S f o r o n e f i n e s tay & r o m e c ava l i e r i Prices for a one night stay with onefinestay in Rome start from £183 per night. To book or for more information call 020 7167 2524 or visit onefinestay.com Rome Cavalieri Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Roma, +39 06 35091 romecavalieri .com

British Airways flights from Heathrow and Gatwick to Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport start at £40 britishairways.com Via di Valle delle Camene

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:40

HVAR Good TIME Nothing beats a week spent in the jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast Wo r d s C at h e r i n e H a l e s

T

hese days it’s rare to find somewhere that feels untouched without venturing to a far flung island in the Caribbean and yet, when looking out over the terracotta rooftops, cream-coloured buildings and sparkling seas of Hvar, this small island of the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia appears to be just that. In a modern Europe dominated by resorts and tower block hotels, Croatia manages to combine a short haul flight with beaches, nightlife and history without becoming a hellish tourist trap. As a result, Croatia has been topping lists and featuring in round-ups of the world’s best holiday destinations for roughly five years now and its appeal doesn’t seem to have tarnished at all; it even made Conde Nast Traveler’s annual ‘The Best Places to Travel’ list for the upcoming year. Both Split and Dubrovnik do a roaring tourist trade during the summer months but

for a real combination of tranquility and stimulation, the islands off the coast are the place to go.

After a taxi, plane and ferry ride (plus a few glasses of rosé at the port in Split), I stand on a romantic dock looking out at transparent waters filled with sailboats and then up at white buildings encircled by hills. Despite the fact that Hvar has a reputation as the sunniest place in Europe, we had set off in a storm but by the time our ferry pulled into Hvar Town, the rain had subsided and the clouds had been washed away revealing an impossibly blue sky. It was the end of late September, which is the tail-end of Croatia’s high season, so while not exactly sizzling hot the sun was still warm enough to walk around in shorts.

The Luxury Travel Book have properties throughout Europe as well as in Morocco and Sri Lanka and each of them is, without exception, of the highest standard. Our villa was a 10 minute stroll from the port, right in the heart of the

Hvar has a REPUTATION as the SUNNIEST PLACE

in Europe

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

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absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:51

Join us at the Park Terrace Restaurant and enjoy fresh, delicious cuisine while taking in views of Kensington Gardens.

Executive Chef Steve Munkley and his talented team draw on the finest ingredients from sustainable sources to create seasonal menus that are always delicious.

Exclusively for Valentine’s Day dinner, treat yourself and a loved one to a four-course meal and a specially created cocktail for £45 per person.

2-24 KENSINGTON HIGH STREET LONDON W8 4PT TEL +44 (0)20 7361 0602 FAX +44 (0)20 7361 1991 WWW.ROYALGARDENHOTEL.CO.UK

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24/01/2017 14:20

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST steps you encounter stunning palaces which eventually lead to fort Fortica or, as the locals call it, Španjola. From there you have a spectacular panoramic view – go at sunset for maximum impact.

Although there are no sand beaches in the immediate vicinity, jetties and ladders extend into the sea for swimmers and there are large, smooth rocks to lay out a towel and bask in the sunshine. In the evenings, homebodies can hit the market and carry their spoils back for a slap up meal in the tranquil garden of the villa.

Whether it is the strict conservation of its historical architecture or the laid back, unassuming attitude, Hvar exists as both a tourist hotspot and a sanctuary. Here's hoping that this marvellous equilibrium will last forever – but go there as soon as possible, just in case. ◆

historical town of Hvar. Narrow white alleys with steps leading up to different levels of the town crisscross and meander, some leading to picturesque dead ends peppered with elaborate carved wooden doors. It was the end of one of these that we found our villa.

Double doors lead onto a sprawling courtyard with a lemon tree, dining table and sun loungers - not to mention a beautiful glass conservatory with a small pool inside. The villa was built between 1590 and 1612 in Baroque style with heavy Venetian influences and one of its best features is the view from the ornate balcony out onto the harbour.

Despite the winding streets, the layout of

Hvar town is intuitive with most of the hustle and bustle centering on the waterfront. Stalls selling fragrant bunches of lavender for which the island is famous line the port with restaurants and cafes facing them a little further inland. Hvar is one of the filming locations for hit HBO series Game of Thrones which and, wandering through the main square, its white paving stones worn smooth with wear, it isn’t hard to see why.

During the day, walks around the island are a discovery. The centre of the town was built in the 15th and 16th century, so once you pass through the Porta di datallo (Gate of Dates) north of the square and start climbing the

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t h e d e ta i l s The Luxury Travel Book’s Villa Hvar sleeping 10 is from €8,400 a week.

To book visit call 020 7586 5342 or email info@theluxurytravelbook.com The Luxury Travel Book is a carefully curated collection of privately owned, new and historic properties that includes villas, city apartments and chalets, as well as rare properties including a castle and windmill. In addition to having many of Europe and beyond’s most stylish homes on its books, The Luxury Travel Book specialises in personal service and local knowledge, helping guests ‘stay like a local’ and immerse themselves in their surroundings.

absolutely.london

24/01/2017 12:52

“It’s fine.

The heart wants what the heart wants.

Discover rural homes with sea views using keyword search.

PL.indd 1

11/07/2016 15:20

We’ll shop

online.”

PL.indd 2

11/07/2016 15:19

FITNESS • SURFING • GOLFING • CYCLING WALKING • COASTEERING • EATING • CHILLING

Make the most of the dramatic north Cornish Coast and the buzzing surfing beach of Polzeath

With a stunning 18-hole golf course, North Cornwall's top Health Club, featuring an indoor pool, Spinning® room, fully equipped state-ofthe-art gym, dedicated new studio, tennis courts, restaurant with top reviews, accommodation ranging from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom houses together with 7 NEW contemporary apartments, The Point at Polzeath is a favourite destination for both short breaks and family holidays.

thepointatpolzeath.co.uk • holidays@thepointatpolzeath.co.uk 01208 863 000 • The Point at Polzeath Cornwall PL27 6QT

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PROPERTY NEWS

p.116

WALDEMAR AVENUE F U L H A M , SW 6

£1,795,000

NIGEL LEWIS: FAMOUS PLACES

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

p.130

S

ituated in an excellent position within the street with a very open west facing aspect to the rear and looking down Burnfoot Avenue to the front. The property currently has a double reception room, large kitchen/dining room, four bedrooms, two bathrooms and there is potential to add an extra floor (subject to planning permission). Waldemar Avenue is just off the western end of the Fulham Road making it convenient for access to the shops and restaurants of Parsons Green. u F U L H A M • 020 7731 4223 • johndwood.co.uk

GUIDE PRICE

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p.124

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 14:45

Pet friendly people‌ Renting pet friendly property! We need more landlords who are willing to accommodate tenants with pets. Call any of our team now on 020 7221 2277 or pop into our offices for more information on renting your property to people with pets.

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24/01/2017 17:24 1/19/17 2:34 PM

The Vale, SW3 ÂŁ6,250 per week Fees Apply The property is a spectacular Grade I I listed house on this sleepy Chelsea street just moments from the Kings Road and a short walk to the river. The owners have sympathetically restored and designed the house to create the perfect balance of classic and contemporary.

The generous entertaining rooms and beautiful west-facing garden make this the perfect family home. EPC = D. Three reception rooms, seven bedrooms, four bathrooms, kitchen, garden and roof terrace. Also available for SHORT LETS at ÂŁ10,000 per week. Furnished.

Sole Agents 020 7937 9976 jared@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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Lansdowne Road, W11 ÂŁ4,650 per week Fees Apply A beautiful house with garden and direct access to communal gardens on this wonderful street in Notting Hill. The property has been designed and furnished with incredible flair to provide the perfect balance of family accommodation and elegant entertaining space.

EPC= F. Two reception rooms, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, garden and direct access to communal gardens. Also available for SHORT LETS at ÂŁ6,000 per week. Furnished. Sole Agents 020 7221 2277 karina@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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Ladbroke Road, W11 ÂŁ 3,500 per week Fees Apply Stunning home which has been refurbished throughout in a contemporary style whilst retaining many of the features of a classical period house. Moments from the Gate itself and just a short walk from Westbourne Grove and Portobello Road, this is the perfect home in Notting Hill. EPC= C. Three reception rooms, five bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen. and roof terrace. Also available for SHORT LETS at ÂŁ5,000 per week. Furnished. Sole Agents 020 7221 2277 karina@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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Alexa Court, Lexham Gardens, W8 ÂŁ3,500,000 Share of Freehold Spectacular lateral apartment (circa 1,730 sq ft) situated on the first floor of an imposing Victorian stucco-fronted building. The property has fantastic volume with ceiling heights in excess of 4m in the principal reception room and the most extraordinary south-facing private terrace covering an additional 1,259 sq ft. The apartment further benefits from a lift and live-in caretaker. Sought after residential address located between South Kensington and High Street Kensington. Gloucester Road and Earls Court underground stations are within walking distance and there is quick access to the A4 with Heathrow and the M4 to the west and Knightsbridge to the east. EPC=D. Two reception rooms, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and terrace.

020 7937 9976 michael@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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Chatsworth Court, Pembroke Road, W8 ÂŁ1,675,000 Share of Freehold A wonderfully bright top floor apartment (with lift) which provides an excellent balance of accommodation. Located on the fifth floor the flat enjoys rooftop views, lift, 24 hour porter, landscaped communal gardens and off street parking, on a first come first served basis. Chatsworth Court is a popular building located to the south of Kensington High Street and close to Holland Park. Earls Court underground station and the numerous shopping and transport facilities of Kensington High Street are within walking distance. EPC = E. Reception room, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and access to communal gardens.

020 7937 9976 michael@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

24/01/2017 17:25 1/19/17 2:42 PM

Ledbury Road, W11 ÂŁ1,125,000 Leasehold An exceptionally well refurbished one bedroom apartment with a superb open-plan living space. Arranged over the second and third floors of a handsome Victorian terraced property, the flat offers a stunning combined kitchen/reception room with wood floors, open brickwork and westerly sunlight, a large top floor bedroom and a fully-tiled shower room with a walk-in shower. The property also has planning permission for a top floor front and rear mansard extension. Ledbury Road is perfectly positioned for all the best boutiques, restaurants and bars Notting Hill has to offer. EPC=C. Reception room, bedroom, bathroom and kitchen.

020 7221 2277 tim@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

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St Quintin Avenue, W10 ÂŁ1,999,995 Share of Freehold A rare opportunity to purchase a truly remarkable apartment which provides circa 1,512 sq ft of luxury living space. This exceptional property primarily occupies the first floor of a handsome period house in prime North Kensington. Immaculately presented, the property offers superb ceiling height, period fireplaces throughout, plenty of natural light, an abundance of storage and a fantastic south-facing terrace with an unusually open aspect. The top floor is dedicated to a luxurious master bedroom with en suite bathroom.

St Quintin Avenue is an attractive tree-lined street located close to the Kensington Memorial Park and within easy reach of Portobello Road and Notting Hill. EPC = D. Reception room, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and terrace.

020 8960 0181 shauna@mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

mountgrangeheritage.co.uk

Kensington 020 7937 9976

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North Kensington 020 8960 0181

Notting Hill 020 7221 2277

24/01/2017 17:25 1/19/17 2:47 PM

PROPERTY R O U N D U P

THE INSIDE SCOOP IN YOUR AREA

Most satisfying transaction

HOUSE HUNTING

I never thought I’d see

Letting a 6,500 sq ft house offmarket whilst it was still a building site, for £18,000 per week. It took 6 months of negotiations, so it was a very satisfying deal to finally get over the line.

FEATURED A DANCE FLOOR THAT TURNED INTO A SWINMMING POOL

Most interesting property

by EMILIE BEARD ASSOCIATE PARTNER Strutt and Parker

The letting of Jimmy Hendrix’s old house. The impressive property featured a dance floor that turned into a swimming pool.

A house that has internal walls which can be moved to create different spaces, they work remarkably well and allow the occupants to be creative with the space.

Finest property showcase Portland Road,W11 £2,250PW A stunning three bedroom family home ideally situated on this quiet residential street in Holland Park. Features a private garden and roof terrace.

NOTTING HILL LETTINGS / 0207 221 1111 / struttandparker.com

SPOTLIGHT ON

PRIME CENTRAL LONDON Sales by price band ~ last 12 months

Under £500k

£500k-£1m

£1m-£2m

Over £2m

10.2% 40.5% 28.2% 21.0% ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY / NEWS AG E N T ON DESIGN

BROMPTON ROAD SW 3 , £ 2 , 4 0 0,0 0 0 LOCATION This super apartment is ideally located opposite Harrods in the heart of Knightsbridge. South Kensington underground station is only 0.2 miles distance, with Sloane Square and Knightsbridge stations both only 0.6 miles away.

New Build

News

FULHAM RIVERSIDE

Find latest properties to market with Absolutely Magazines and OnTheMarket.com. Give yourself a head start and set up a property alert today at the Absolutely Magazines website absolutely.onthemarket. com. Our online search service is powered by property website OnTheMarket. com which lists hundreds of thousands of properties for sale or to rent across the UK. Every property you see will be on the market with full-service, office-based estate or letting agents who are experts in their local area.

SW 6 , £ 3 ,9 0 0,0 0 0 A fantastic example of Townhouses on Fulham’s waterfront. The properties are arranged over six floors with flexible living accommodation to suit individual needs. The Show Home as pictured is an example of the Morgan design and extends to 3,523 sq ft approx with a garage on the basement floor along with lift access.

CHESTERTONS

SPACE Providing open plan living, the property has a large master suite, second double bedroom, a spacious reception and two bathrooms. The entire apartment is approximately 1,130 square feet.

Fulham, 020 7384 9898; chestertons.com

EXPERT ADVICE Will Vaughn reflects on the impact of 2016 2016 taught me to expect the unexpected. Politically the year was unprecedented and the uncertainty created meant that we as agents had to adapt. We enjoyed more face-to-face meetings with clients last year than ever before, often to advise and update them on the property market, often to act as a sounding board and often to simply reassure clients by placing the events of the day within a historical context. More than

“We enjoyed more face-to-face meetings with clients last year than ever before” ever it became clear how few of our clients in the area truly have to sell, and given the relative Stamp Duty costs now, how careful our buyers need to be to make the right property decision. To help them with this my team and I make sure to spend a lot of time talking and listening to our clients to really understand their property aims.

AMENITIES Princes Court is a portered building, which comes with a lobby and lift access to the apartments on the upper floors which includes this stunning offering.

by WILL VAUGHAN SALES MANAGER

John D Wood & Co. Notting Hill, 020 7229 2356; johndwood.co.uk

M E E T T H E T E A M S AV I L L S W E S T L O N D O N

by RAPHAEL FITOUSSI SALES MANAGER

KFH, South Kensington, 020 3792 4572; kfh.co.uk

SOPHIE CURTIS

LOUISE GOOD

LETTINGS MANAGER Fulham Branch

HEAD OF OFFICE

HEAD OF OFFICE

Kensington Branch

Notting Hill Branch

I joined Savills Fulham as Head of Lettings ten years ago. Over the last seven months we have worked more closely with our sales team in correlation with the rise of the ‘accidental landlord’ following the referendum. In 2014, I became a Fellow of the Association of Residential Letting Agents.

With over 30 years of experience and a real passion for property, I have worked across prime central London and was formerly based in Chelsea. I have been very busy letting properties in Holland Green, a trend I expect to continue during 2017.

I live with my husband and our twin daughters.

Following a stint serving in the French Parachute Regiment after leaving school, I moved straight into realestate. With over 15 years of experience, I joined Savills in 2012 and opened the Notting Hill office. This was followed in 2014 by the creation of Savills Mews department, a type of property I have a fondness for.

Contact: 020 7731 9400

Contact: 020 7535 3300

Contact: 020 7727 5750

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OLIVER LUROT

absolutely.london

25/01/2017 14:47

275 Willesden Lane, NW2 5JA 020 8459 1133 enquiries@cameronsstiff.co.uk

EPC - E

CHRISTCHURCH AVENUE, NW6

£3,999,950 Freehold

Beautifully presented six bedroom semi-detached family home of just over 4000 sq ft boasting large lateral living accommodation combining traditional and contemporary features with a warm family presence. Good local schools close by and within walking distance to Queen’s Park & Salusbury Road.

• 3 spacious reception rooms • Beautifully designed open plan kitchen • 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms • 120 ft rear garden, OSP, patio area

EPC - E

MOUNT PLEASANT ROAD, NW10

£1,850,000 Freehold

Fully refurbished semi-detached family home offering 1902 sq ft of accommodation with plenty of lateral living space approached by electric gates and situated on a very popular street close to Willesden Green Station and local amenities. Must be seen to be fully appreciated. Plenty of space for a growing family.

• 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms • Open plan kitchen with dining area • 110 ft garden with patio area • Large loft, original leaded windows

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EPC - D

ELLESMERE ROAD, NW10

£950,000 Freehold

OFFERED CHAIN FREE is this substantial, fully refurbished semi-detached house laid out over 1660 sq ft, providing the perfect entertaining space. The property is situated on a convenient road close to the 94 acre Gladstone Park & Jubilee Line at Dollis Hill.

• Kitchen/diner/reception room • 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • Reception with bi-fold doors • Garden with shed

EPC - B

CHATSWORTH ROAD, NW2

£499,950 Leasehold

Bright & spacious loft apartment by Copperbrick Developments situated on the highly popular Mapesbury Conservation Area and providing 692 sq ft of luxurious living space. Fully refurbished and tastefully designed – great position. Viewing is essential.

• Open plan kitchen/reception/study • Double bedroom/dressing room • Lots of storage & light throughout • Close to Willesden Green Station

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62 Salusbury Road, NW6 6NS 020 7328 2828 enquiries@cameronsstiff.co.uk

EPC - C

WINCHESTER AVENUE, NW6

£900,000 Share of Freehold

Stunning split level 2 bedroom garden flat in this lovely converted mid-terrace house within walking distance to Salusbury Road & Queen’s Park. The property provides 811 sq ft of living space with a unique glass extension onto the 94 ft garden. Viewing is highly recommended.

• Spacious master bedroom with bay window • Wooden floors & fitted carpets • Double reception, open plan kitchen • Brondesbury Park Overground Station

EPC - D

WALDO ROAD, NW10

£900,000 Freehold

A well presented 2 bedroom mid-terrace period house spanning 1305 sq ft, boasting 23 ft reception, open plan kitchen/diner opening onto a 20 ft rear garden, 2 en-suite bathrooms & guest cloakroom. Excellent transport links into Central London via Kensal Green & Willesden Junction Bakerloo/Overground Stations. Must be seen!

• Large open plan living space • Bright & spacious, period features • Enclosed courtyard garden • Close to shops & cafés on Chamberlayne Road

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EPC - B

SALUSBURY ROAD, NW6

£1,250,000 Leasehold

Exclusive 2 bedroom penthouse in this stunning development in the heart of Queen’s Park, close to all the trendy cafes, shops & restaurants of the area. The property provides spacious living with large open plan kitchen, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite) & exceptionally large terrace offering stunning views of London. Viewing is essential.

• New development built in 2016 • Perfect entertaining space, 300 ft terrace • Concierge service, parking space • Bespoke kitchen, stunning bathrooms

EPC - D

HARTLAND ROAD, NW6

£1,799,950 Freehold

Situated just moments away from the beautiful open spaces of Queen’s Park is this fully extended family home retaining plenty of the original charm combined with a modern touch. The house comprises of 28 ft double reception, open plan kitchen/diner with bi-fold doors onto a 22 ft south facing garden, 4 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite).

• Offering 1706 sq ft of living space • Bright & spacious open plan kitchen/diner • Plenty of storage space • Close to Queen’s Park Station

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

www.finlaybrewer.co.uk

RAVENSCOURT ROAD W6 £1,845PW / £7,995PCM

FRITHVILLE GARDENS W12 £1,150PW / £4,983PCM

• 5 BEDROOMS • SPACIOUS RECEPTION • SIEMATIC KITCHEN

• 5/6 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN/BREAKFAST ROOM

• 3 BATHROOMS • PATIO GARDEN • EPC RATING B 84

• 3 BATHROOMS • 43'6 GARDEN • EPC RATING D 59

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

HEBRON ROAD W6 £1,050PW / £4,550PCM

BRACKENBURY GARDENS W6 £450PW / £1,950PCM

• 4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • NEW BESPOKE KITCHEN

• 2 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • OPEN PLAN LIVING SPACE • FITTED KITCHEN

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

• 2 BATHROOMS • BEAUTIFUL GARDEN • EPC RATING E 50

• FAMILY BATHROOM • EPC RATING D 65

LETTINGS 020 7371 4071

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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ADDISON GARDENS W14 GUIDE £2.275M FREEHOLD

FRITHVILLE GARDENS W12 GUIDE £2M FREEHOLD

• 4 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN

• 5/6 DOUBLE BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN

• PLAYROOM • PATIO GARDEN • EPC RATING D 62

• 3 BATHROOMS • 43'6 GARDEN • EPC RATING D 59

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

ALDENSLEY ROAD W6 PRICE ON APPLICATION FREEHOLD

RICHFORD STREET W6 GUIDE £1.325M FREEHOLD

• 4 BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN

• 3/4 BEDROOMS • DOUBLE RECEPTION • KITCHEN

• 2 BATHROOMS • L SHAPED GARDEN • EPC RATING E 49

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

• 2 BATHROOMS • WALLED GARDEN • EPC RATING D 61

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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FA M O U S P L AC E S

by N I G E L L E W I S

London hides a plethora of celebrity homes. These are the most recent to come on the market

be a best seller. The two subsequently set up the UK’s first birth control clinic in Holloway, North London.

The house where Stopes was brought up between 1880 and 1892 in Crystal Palace, South West London, is now available to rent. It’s a two-bedroom apartment within the property priced at £1,500 a month through Beresford Residential (020 8033 9162). u

CALL THE MIDWIFE HOUSE IS REBORN

his former Grade II listed seminary is where until 2007 priests were trained before being despatched to work overseas.

And it found fame when its religious looks appealed to the makers of TV series Call The Midwife, who used it to recreate Nonnatus House convent in London’s Poplar, where the story is set.

But now the cameras have gone, the builders are moving in. Developer Berkeley Homes is turning the historic home into gated development of 49 apartments which come with a concierge service and access to seven acres of mature parkland.

The most stunning of all the homes is the new space created within its former chapel, which is famous in architectural circles for its multiple glass-stained windows and granite pillars. It is also the development’s most expensive property at £6 million and has four bedrooms and the

T

WHERE CUMBERBATCH LEARNED HIS TRADE

ogan House, a development of luxury apartments being built on the site of a Kensington theatre, is where Benedict Cumberbatch learnt his trade.

It was until 2003 the Michael MacOwan Theatre, part of the neighbouring London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).

During the 1990s Cumberbatch studied at LAMDA where he completed a post-graduate Diploma in Classical Acting before fame, and his breakthrough Bafta nomination for the 2004 film Hawking, beckoned.

He was not the only famous actor to tread the boards at the former theatre. Other big names seen under its lights include Chiwetel Ejiofor, Jim Broadbent, Patricia Hodge, Maureen Lipman, John Lithgow, Martin Shaw, Hermione Norris and David Suchet.

The new-build development, which has been awarded a blue plaque in recognition of its starry alumni, will include apartments with up to four bedrooms each with outdoor terraces.

Prices start at £1.375 million rising to £5.5 million. More information from Knight Frank (0203 826 0673). u

L

Stopes became interested in birth control by mistake. Born in 1880 to scientific parents in Edinburgh, she was subsequently brought to South London with her family.

After finishing her schooling, she later followed her parents into science and became a palaeobotanist.

And Stopes would have remained an obscure specialist had she not divorced her first husband and begun to write about how a good marriage should work.

This led to a chance meeting with Margaret Sanger, who at the time was giving talks on birth control.

Stopes included a chapter on the subject in her book, which went on to

Prices start at

£1.375 Million

WHERE THE MARIE STOPES STORY STARTED

arie Stopes was a pioneer of birth control in the UK and the clinics and international organisation established in her name are both still famous around the world.

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PROPERTY / STAR HOMES Prices start at

£1.385

£1.500

Million

a month

“The new-build development has been awarded a blue plaque, in recognition of its starry alumini” original vaulted ceiling as well as a gym, spa, steam room and sauna.

Four other properties within St Joseph’s are currently available for sale at between £1.385 and £1.525 million. More information from Berkeley Homes, 01753 784417. u

KITCHEN’S A BIT SMALL FOR BLUMENTHAL

ould this be the house where three-Michelin starred chef C Heston Blumenthal invented snail porridge, triple cooked chips and bacon and eggs ice cream?

£525 Thousand

The celebrity chef’s signature dishes are all available at his worldfamous restaurant, The Fat Duck, which at one point was voted the world’s best eatery.

It was also his first restaurant and while he nurtured it through the early years, Blumenthal lived in this cottage outside the nearby village of Penn before moving to more spacious accommodation in Marlow, Oxfordshire and later Barnes.

The property has a compact kitchen as well as two bedrooms and lounge with a fire burning stove. But there’s no sign of the dry-ice machine that Blumenthal has used in the past to make another of his signature dishes, Jelly of Quail on Oak Moss.

Penn cottage is now for sale through agent Knight Frank’s Beaconsfield Office (01494 853819) for £525,000. u

£2

Million

125 Chis_Jan17_famousplaces.indd 125

HOME TO A ROYAL FAVOURITE FROM IRAQ

imrud in Iraq was until recently the country’s most historic ancient city and a popular tourist attraction.

In 2015 it was destroyed by ISIS militants using dynamite, pneumatic drills and even their bare hands.

Before this, the 4,000-year-old metropolis had been regarded as one of the world’s great archaeological treasures. Little remains today, although some items were brought back from the site during the 19th century after the city was discovered and excavated by Hormuzd Rassam. During his career Rassam made several key discoveries including the earliest known example of human literature called the Epic of Gilgamesh, which is in the form of several stone tablets.

He later moved to London where he began a successful career as a diplomat and later became a favourite of Queen Victoria. Fittingly, the five-bedroom property in west London where he lived is one of the oldest homes in the area and includes a turret as well as original features that Rassam would have been familiar with, including its gorgeous stained glass doors.

Agent Dexters (020 8560 1177) says the property also has several secret doorways. It’s on the market for £2m. u

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absolutely.london

25/01/2017 14:50

The height of refinement

Tower Apartments Now Launched ❖

Manhattan, one, two and three bedroom apartments

❖

Situated between Regent’s Park and Hyde Park

❖

W2 location, minutes from Marylebone

❖

Swimming pool, spa, gym, concierge & cinema room

❖

One minute* walk from Edgware Road station

❖

Private tranquil gardens

Prices starting from £620,000

| www.westendgate.co.uk | 020 3432 1772

Prices and details correct at time of going to press. Computer generated images are indicative only. Details subject to planning permission. *Travel times are approximate and taken from google.co.uk/maps

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

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Harrods Estates brings

LONDON property to the world

• LONDON RESIDENTIAL SALES • LONDON RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS • ACQUISITIONS • NEW DEVELOPMENTS • ASSET MANAGEMENT • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: 020 7409 9001 CHELSEA OFFICE: 58 FULHAM ROAD LONDON SW3 6HH T: 020 7225 6700 KENSINGTON OFFICE: 48-50 KENSINGTON CHURCH STREET LONDON W8 4DG T: 020 3650 4600

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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20/12/2016 16:03 17:59 27/09/2016 10:46 22/09/2015 22/07/2015 14:41

A MOST IMPRESSIVE ARTIST'S STUDIO IN SYDNEY CLOSE AVENUE STUDIOS, CHELSEA SW3 • Over 1300sq ft • Uncommon volume and light • Potential to add value Guide price: £2,250,000

• Unusual opportunity • Discreetly located • EPC rating D

Chelsea Office: 020 7225 6700 mark.greenway@harrodsestates.com

Leasehold: Approximately 82 years

HARRODSESTATES.COM

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A TWO/THREE-BEDROOM APARTMENT IN THIS LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT TRINITY HOUSE, 375 KENSINGTON HIGH STREET W14 • En suite master • Open-plan living areas • Elegant dining room Guide price: £2,300,000

• Balcony • 1,150sq ft /106.84sq m • EPC rating B

Kensington Office: 020 3650 4600 nicholas.shaw@harrodsestates.com

Leasehold: Approximately 993 years

HARRODSESTATES.COM

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PROPERTY / PROFILE JLL KNIGHTSBRIDGE

I N T H E I R OW N WO R D S

Tim des Forges From training to technology, JLL’s Director for Residential Agency reflects on the evolving nature of the industry Photography by R E B E C C A N O O NA N

I

’m not entirely sure if anyone grows up wanting to be an estate agent. I certainly didn’t, and from the age of four, I remember wanting to be a farmer because as far as I was aware, farming was the only thing anyone did in Herefordshire. In February 1998, I was living in my brother’s first floor flat in Redcliffe Gardens, surrounded by bits of his ceiling which had fallen in. He came home one evening and said W.A.Ellis were looking for a ‘Baldrick’ (affectionate term for a youngster undertaking menial tasks) for three months.

My short career as a £6 an hour civil servant would be shelved as I made my way to 174 Brompton Road (taking the tube from Earl’s Court to South Kensington – I was very green) in the only suit I owned – heavy wool and ill-fitting. I met the legendary Graeme Scott Dalgleish (who sits to my right as I type, in his 52nd year of service). His first comment was “There’s no permanent job for you here, you know” as he returned to his Rolodex and clunky brick of a phone. A good start (but 19 years later I am still here..). I had met Graeme when I was 15, during two weeks work experience. His first comment was ‘Do you drive?” to my reply “No, sir, I’m only 15”. “Oh, ok then, you better be a good walker” as he sent me off to Lennox Gardens to deliver keys. Lennox

Gardens is five minutes’ walk away and can almost be seen from the front door. I got lost coming back. From that moment, I loved every minute of being at work. My friends longed for the weekends and hated Monday mornings. I wanted to get back to work, and for this, they were baffled. The firm was full of long-serving, ‘coal face’ agents who had never been on training courses on how to show a flat or deal with a client. You learnt from your superiors – it was natural and you were allowed to make mistakes. Just don’t make them again. To go on a pitch with Graeme was the only lesson I needed – his knowledge of every flat in the area was stunning – which buildings have a lift, which houses are laterally converted, which have house keepers, suffer tube noise, as well as names and dates of when people bought. The area was like a jigsaw, and he knew how all the pieces fitted together. It was inspiring, and it is that knowledge I have tried to accumulate over the last 19 years.

Progress in the business has been swift –the internet being the chief game changer, as it has been to nearly every industry. Information on a new instruction can be around the world in a click via both email and property portals. Communication by email started to replace the telephone and fax. Lonres, the estate agents’ intranet with its extensive archive, allowed any agent to have a stab at valu-

“PROGRESS IN THE BUSINESS HAS BEEN SWIFT - THE INTERNET BEING THE CHIEF GAME CHANGER” ing a property if they pay the subscription. It is here that lies the differentiating factor between technology and experience. The former you can buy, the latter you cannot. As I leave the Knightsbridge mother ship to run the new JLL Chelsea office with a hugely experienced team, we look forward to a more settled year after two years of disruption which included mansion tax threats, stamp duty reforms, a general election and the referendum, leading to a significant market correction.

With the ingrained ethos of W.A.Ellis, combined with the global reach and experience in all facets of property that makes up JLL, we want all people who come in contact with us to go away thinking they have found the best. For this, we will always strive. u

JLL KNIGHTSBRIDGE • 020 7306 1600 • residential.jll.co.uk

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25/01/2017 17:39

Internationally respected, locally renowned

Rickman

A refreshing yet professional approach to selling or renting your home

Lyall Mews, Belgravia, SW1X

£5500 per week*

• Sensational mews house • 3841 square feet • Extensive parking for four cars and garage

• Five bedrooms • Four receptions • Two kitchens

• Quiet enviable location in Belgravia • Close to all amenities of Knightsbridge • EPC Rating C

Hornton Street, Kensington £1,200,000 Leasehold • Direct access lift entry • Two bedrooms • Open plan reception/kitchen

• 19’ roof terrace • Newly modernised • EPC Rating E

21 Earls Court Road, London, W8 6EB info@rickmanproperties.com I rickmanproperties.com

• En suite shower • En suite bathroom • Fantastic views

Follow Rickman Properties

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*administration fees apply

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020 7937 9777 23/01/2017 15:55

International PROPERTY NEW ZEALA ND

CHRISTCHURCH, THE GARDEN CITY p.134 FRANKLIN, AUCKLAND p.138 Whitianga Waterways Aerial View, Coromandel Peninsula

Waiheke Island looking back to Auckland Credit: Fullers Ferries

Peacock Fountain & Museum, Christchurch Botanic Gardens

NEW ZEALAND MARKET IAN KEIGHTLEY Licensed Agent (REAA 2008)

he New Zealand Real Estate market has enjoyed unmatched capital gains over the last 3-4 years as net migration – nearly 70 000 in the last 12 months – historically low interest rates, a growing and successful economy, a housing shortage in Auckland of around 60,000 dwellings, combine to create a demand/supply imbalance that place continued upward pressure on values. This is a real estate market that continues to appeal internationally. u

T

MIKE PERO BLOCKHOUSE BAY – LYNFIELD & SURROUNDING SUBURBS +64 21 968 108 ian.keightley@mikepero.com

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PROPERTY / INTERNATIONAL

christchurch THE GARDEN CITY

Home to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

E

xplore the vibrant hues of Christchurch, and you’ll find it all at your fingertips - a picturesque city, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, the majestic Southern Alps and an ancient volcanic peninsula dotted with charming townships and hidden bays.

Christchurch offers a chance to visit a city reimagining itself following the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, with world class technology and innovation alongside history and heritage. Urban regeneration and creativity flow through the city in new restaurants & bars featuring local produce, street art designed and painted by talented resident artists and inspirational transitional projects like Re:START Container

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Mall and the Cardboard Cathedral.

Christchurch is embracing it’s new future, and is excited about the possibility of having a chance to reinvent itself with modern buildings and bright urban events.

Known traditionally as “The Garden City”, the serene Avon River flows through the centre of the city (its banks now largely forming an urban park), and through the award-winning Christchurch Botanic Gardens which are over 150 years old. The gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and native plants found in New Zealand and are home to a stunning new architecturally designed café and visitor centre.

With contemporary art galleries and open-air markets, take the time to explore Christchurch by vintage tram, a classic Edwardian punt, or

perhaps grab your walking shoes and discover the growing network of laneways brimming with bars, eateries and an eclectic mix of boutique shops by foot.

Just a few hours’ drive from Christchurch, you’ll discover an astounding variety of experiences.

From lush vineyards to sky-piercing mountains, pristine glacial lakes to wild coastlines, Canterbury is a region of remarkable contrast. With so much to see and do it really is the perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday.

Akaroa & Banks Peninsula

Top: Art Gallery & Tram, Christchurch Top Right: Akaroa Harbour

Banks Peninsula is full of sparkling bays, seaside villages, boutique galleries and cafes. A picturesque 90 minute drive from Christchurch lies Akaroa, a charming Frenchinspired village that’s well known as a romantic getaway or family break. The village plays host to a number of boutique shops, galleries and activities to get you out onto the stunning harbour or enjoying the coastal views. Take a nature cruise to view seals, penguins, dolphins, and a range of sea birds. u For further information on this marvellous region please visit: www.christchurchnz.com Please contact Mike Goatley your local expert from One Agency Real Estate Specialists, mobile; +64.27.249.5561 (NZ), or email; mikegoatley@oneagencyres.co.nz Mike can assist with all your property enquiries in the Christchurch and Canterbury region.

Editorial and images supplied by Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism.

134 25/01/2017 15:17

www.oneagencyres.co.nz

Exceptional, Unique Lifestyle Living Christchurch, New Zealand NZ$3,150,000 Excluding GST Positioned upon a tranquil 3.494-hectare block of land, 20-minutes from the centre of New Zealand’s second largest city, is this unique and exceptional property, Clearview Lodge. Architecturally designed, this luxury B&B and home features seven bedrooms and boasts expansive grounds that include a Pinot Noir vineyard, olive groves, orchards and a swimming pool. The property is also minutes from Clearwater Golf Club which has been named the best course in New Zealand and Oceania at the World Golf Awards. Offered to the market for the first time, Clearview Lodge presents buyers with a unique opportunity to capture an enviable lifestyle. http://oneagencyres.co.nz/listing?listing_id=1398640 Property Walkthrough Video: https://vimeo.com/197666790 Mike Goatley, Director/Licensed Sales Consultant (REAA 2008) One Agency Real Estate Specialists (NZ) +64.27.249.5561 Cell • +64.3.347.3393 Office • mikegoatley@oneagencyres.co.nz

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23/01/2017 16:03

www.barfoot.co.nz/c.matheson

New Release – Land on The Tara Mangawhai, Northland, New Zealand Priced from NZ$450,000 (approx £263,000 GBP) New to the market - 10 superb land lots - in the sought-after volcanic Tara area of Mangawhai. Make your choice from a variety of sites - some with established, producing avocado trees and some with views extending to the ocean and islands. Secure your block and settle in approximately 12 months. Cafes, beaches and golf course are approximately 10 minutes drive away. Call today for your appointment to view this special piece of rural Mangawhai. Mangawhai is only approximately 75 minutes north of Auckland on the sunny east coast. A popular weekend getaway for city people or stop off on the coastal route north. Titles to be issued.

Further Information; https://www.barfoot.co.nz/586296

Enjoy the Magic of Mangawhai Heads 25 Lincoln St, Mangawhai Heads, Northland, New Zealand NZ$1,500,000 (approx £875,000 GBP) Magical Mangawhai is arguably Northlands fastest growing area - a popular weekend getaway for city people or stop off on the coastal route north. Just approx 75 minutes drive north of Auckland on the sunny east coast this bustling seaside town offers beautiful beaches, markets, restaurants, cafes, championship golf course and marine playground. This two level 1970’s beach house is in a prime location. It has six double bedrooms - plenty of room for all of the family and of course to store the toys. There are wide harbour views which extend to the ocean and islands. Swim or launch your canoe or small boat from the reserve in front - the water is at your doorstep.

Further Information; https://www.barfoot.co.nz/587987

Craig Matheson, Licensed Real Estate Agent REAA 2008 Barfoot & Thompson Real Estate Mangawhai Branch +64.27.218.4509 Cell • +64.9.431.5960 Office • c.matheson@barfoot.co.nz

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www.bayleys.co.nz

One of Waiheke Island’s Finest

Dolphin Estate, Oneroa, Waiheke Island, New Zealand Price: NZ$10,500,000 (+GST if any) (Approximately: £6,141,000) Freehold Waiheke Island, recently acclaimed as New Zealand’s number one tourist destination for international travellers visiting this country, also lays claim to the property Dolphin Estate. Positioned above the crystal clear waters of Owhanake Bay, with wide views over the islands of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, this expansive Mediterranean-style residence stands out as the one of the island’s most incomparable properties.

Operated presently as an exclusive holiday lodge, it offers four fastidiously appointed guest suites and an expansive two-bedroom apartment, each meticulously designed and with sweeping water views to help you unwind and forget about the outside world. A separate and private two bedroom owner’s dwelling with open plan layout, extensive northern water views and discreet road access could easily be converted to staff/caretaker quarters for an owner wanting to revert Dolphin Estate to an exclusive home.

A fully licenced helipad on the estate for ease of access gives the ultimate in privacy for owner or guests. Nothing compares to Dolphin Estate. Be part of and direct its future.

For a comprehensive Information Memorandum, email or phone today.

Further information available at: www.bayleys.co.nz/2150671 Pat Regan, Lifestyle – Viticulture – Special Projects, Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008) Bayleys Real Estate Ltd Licensed under the REA Act 2008, 145 Ocean View Road Oneroa, Waiheke Island 1081, Auckland, New Zealand +64 27 448 3348 Cell • +64 9 372 7841 Fax • Email: pat.regan@bayleys.co.nz

PROPERTY / INTERNATIONAL

franklin AUCKL AND, NEW ZEAL AND

One of New Zealands fastest growing areas

T

he Franklin area covers a vast region – the majority of which is under the Auckland Council, although with the boundary changes with the development of the new Auckland Supercity around 2-3 years ago, some of what we still consider to be Franklin, is in fact in the North Waikato region. The main town of the Franklin region, is Pukekohe, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from the Auckland International and Domestic Airports and about the same from the Auckland CBD. We are approximately a one hour drive to Hamilton, which is to the south.

Franklin is one of the fastest growing areas in NZ and has quite a good opportunity for a range of employment from shop work, to

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INTERNATIONAL_Aukland.indd 138

THE MAIN TOWN OF THE FRANKLIN REGION, IS PUKEKOHE, WHICH IS ABOUT A 30-40 MINUTE DRIVE FROM AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT farming, to trades, market gardening, office work, glasshouse work...the list is endless.

Within the Franklin area there are around 40 primary schools many which will still enrol 5-12 year old age groups as a number of these are smaller rural schools. We also have 4 or 5 college facilities.

The region has its own slice of history, one piece providing the back

Top: Manukau Heads Lighthouse Top Right: Aerial view of Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku

drop for what is still considered to be one of the worst maritime incidents – the sinking of the ship the Orpheus. The scene is set at the Manukau Heads Lighthouse on the Awhitu Peninsula, on our wild west coast, where you also have views across the harbour, towards Auckland city, the Sky tower and the Huia Regional Park. Awhitu has its own charm and feelings of remoteness, although only a 30 minute drive to Waiuku. The Awhitu Regional Park is a very popular summertime destination for families and individuals keen on camping, swimming and relaxing, as are the beaches at the Orua Bay and Big Bay Holiday Parks, which also have cabins for those wanting a little more comfort. The Clarks Beach Holiday Park is a little closer to Pukekohe town and is another popular holiday spot for campers and cabin dwellers. u For further information on the Franklin region please take a look at: www.franklincountry.com For purchasing premium lifestyle and rural property’s, or magnificent Farms in the Franklin region please contact Ian Croft at Barfoot & Thompson Real Estate Tuakau Branch on: +64.21.753.096, email: i.croft@barfoot.co.nz or visit: www.barfoot.co.nz/i.croft Editorial supplied by Kay Rodgers at Franklin Country Ltd. Manukau Heads Lighthouse image supplied by Auckland Tourism Events and Economic Development.

Karioitahi Beach images supplied by www.castaways.co.nz.

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www.barfoot.co.nz/i.croft

Stunning Sunsets and Legal Access to the Beach 42 Huarau Way Waiuku, Auckland, New Zealand Low NZD$1 Million’s A beautifully restored classic character bungalow, with endless views of the west coast and surrounding rural landscape. This property boasts a rare feature -it has legal (shared) access to the beach! The home is open plan, spacious and has been stylishly renovated in neutral tones, this is the type of home you would find in the city yet its placed on an easy care elevated site with as much aspect as you could ask for. Add your own personal touch easily with new curtains, artwork and furniture. Having undergone a complete and thorough upgrade and renovation, you can simply move in and enjoy the evening sunsets, get out on your quad bike and catch some fish off the beach via your own access or saddle up for a gallop down the beach!

This property would suit as an exciting holiday home and is only a stones throw from the Waiuku Township which provides all necessary amenities. On the other side of Waiuku is the beautiful Awhitu Peninsula, where you’ll find many stunning beaches and scenery - a real hidden gem!

A generous floor area of approximately 240m² (no attached garage) comprises 4 large double bedrooms + a single bedroom, 3 modern, tiled bathrooms two with underfloor heating, separate laundry with shower and a walk-in wardrobe in the master. The master bedroom has an ensuite with tiled shower and large windows that face west looking out to the coast, a gorgeous vista all year round. The land area of 7.25 acres is of a good contour and suitable for horses and or stock. Alternatively it can be left as is as its very low maintenance. Approximately 11minutes or 12kms to Waiuku Township or 1 hour to the Auckland Central Business District via car. If you are searching for a relaxing environment to unwind, create or simply head to for the weekend - this is it.

Further information is available at; https://www.barfoot.co.nz/580370

Ian Croft, Rural Salesperson, Licensed REAA 2008 Barfoot & Thompson Real Estate Tuakau Branch +64.21.753.096 Cell • +64.9.237.8310 Office • i.croft@barfoot.co.nz

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23/01/2017 16:06

www.richardsons.co.nz/office/whitianga

Central Shangri-La in Whitianga 23c Cook Drive, Whitianga, Coromandel Peninsula, 3510 New Zealand Price: £800,000 Nestled on a super private and extensively landscaped 2,572m2 section, this substantial 330m2 home provides 4 spacious bedrooms (3 with external access), a chefs kitchen with 3 pantrys, 3 bathrooms (3 ensuites), large media/gymnasium, huge open plan living area opening out to ‘wow factor’ covered garden room with open fire for memorable family & social times. There is a carpeted double garage with timber infra- red sauna, a separate garage/workshop with utility/hobby room and 3 bay covered area for the boys toys. Constructed with stone and plastered concrete under a solid concrete tile roof, this low maintenance oasis is quite unique will really impress as a quality family home. Only 250m to school, 500m down to marina and boat ramp, 800m stroll to central town, cafes restaurant. Well below replacement cost, this is a ‘must see’ property!

Peter Lawrence, Licensed Real Estate Agent (REAA 2008) Richardsons Real Estate Ltd MREINZ – Whitianga Branch +64.7.866.2373 Office • +64.21.841.898 Cell • peterl@whitianga.richardsons.co.nz WHITIANGA.indd 3

21/11/2016 09:29

A BOUTIQUE COLLECTION OF PRESTIGIOUS 1 AND 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS INCLUDING TWO UNIQUE PENTHOUSES Located on the iconic New Kings Road, these elegant homes are just a six minute walk from Parsons Green Underground station and within walking distance of Chelsea, Sloane Square and Knightsbridge. Superbly executed for an exceptional lifestyle and serviced by on-site concierge, these luxury residences deliver to the highest specification.

Prices from £745,000 O N E AN D T WO B EDROO M SH OW APARTM ENTS O PEN DAI LY TO O RGAN IS E YOUR VI E WI N G APPO I NT M ENT C ALL 0333 6 6 6 2939 The Sales Suite, 100 New Kings Road, London SW6 4LX, open daily 0333 6 6 6 2939

W W W. LO N D O NSQ UARE .CO.U K

Computer generated image depicts London Square New Kings Road and is indicative only. Details and price are correct at time of going to press, February 2017. *Travel times and distances are approximate, sourced www.journeyplanner.tfl.gov.uk

LDNSQ.indd 1

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PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET 1

LUXURIOUS

LETTINGS London’s Finest Assets

1

SLOANE GARDENS SW 1 W, £ 1 , 3 0 0

A

PW

two-bed maisonette to rent, Set on the raised ground and lower ground floor of an impressive red brick Victorian mansion building, the apartment boasts stylish interiors with two double bedrooms, dining room, high ceilings and wooden floors. The reception room is impressive with wooden flooring and feature fireplace, while the dining area is perfect for entertaining. u

FOXTONS Sloane Square, 020 7591 9000 foxtons.co.uk

DISTILLERY WHARF W 6 , £ 7 75

T

PW

his spacious two double bedroom apartment is situated on the fifth floor in Distillery Wharf, part of the Fulham Reach development in Hammersmith.

The apartment comprises of a bright open plan reception with space for dining, floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and access to a private balcony.u BENHAM & REEVES Residential Lettings , Hammersmith, 020 8600 0960 brlets.co.uk

“BRIMMING OVER WITH PERIOD FEATURES AND BOHEMIAN DECOR” JO H N D WOO D & CO

CHEYNE ROW SW 3 , £4 ,0 0 0 P W

T

his is a truly magnificent, six bedroom, house on one of the most prestigious streets in Chelsea. Brimming over with period features and bohemian décor this exciting property has a beautiful reception room to the rear with double height ceilings and access to a pretty garden where there is a summerhouse/ studio with shower room. There is a further family room and formal dining room. u JOHN D WOOD & CO.

Chelsea, 020 7808 8555; johndwood.co.uk

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25/01/2017 15:24

Riverside living at its best

Flats to rent at Fulham Reach starting at £550 per week

1 Beds from £550 pw

n 1, 2, 3 Beds & Penthouses to Rent n Pool, Gym, 24hr Concierge, Air-conditioning n 3 mins from Hammersmith Tube & all amenities

2 Beds from £750 pw

020 8528 4110 or email fr@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk Call us now on

Unit C, Distillery Wharf, Chancellors Road, London W6 9GX London branches: Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping International: Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report.

For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 1

On-site letttings office at Fulham Reach

24/01/2017 15:24

Fulham

£1,500 pw Furnished

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 3 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Spa | Pool | Close to Tube | EPC - B Fulham 020 3503 0015

iw@brlets.co.uk

Sixteen branches open six days a week Monday - Saturday Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham | Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead Highgate | Hyde Park | Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 2

24/01/2017 15:24

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

020 7319 9783

Ladbroke Grove

£425 pw Furnished

London’s Letting Agency

info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk

Kensington

£615 pw Furn/Unfurn

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Balcony | Porter | Lift | Nearby Amenities | EPC - B

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Nearby Amenities & Tube | EPC - D

Hyde Park 020 3417 3703

Kensington 020 3302 5674

Imperial Wharf

hyde@brlets.co.uk

£750 pw Furnished

Fulham Reach

kens@brlets.co.uk

£850 pw Furnished

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Gym | EPC - B | Sole Agent

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Gym | 24hr Concierge | Spa | EPC - C

Fulham 020 3503 0015

Hammersmith 020 8528 4110

iw@brlets.co.uk

fr@brlets.co.uk

Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 3

24/01/2017 15:24

St Johns Wood

£1,195 pw Furnished

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 3 Bathrooms | Apartment Porter | Storage Room | Communal Heating | EPC - D Hyde Park 020 3417 3703

hyde@brlets.co.uk

Sixteen branches open six days a week Monday - Saturday Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham | Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead Highgate | Hyde Park | Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report. For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 4

24/01/2017 15:24

To arrange a viewing or for more information call

020 7319 9783

Knightsbridge

£475 pw Furnished

London’s Letting Agency

info@brlets.co.uk www.brlets.co.uk

Imperial Wharf

£700 pw Furnished

1 Bedroom | Reception | 1 Bathroom | Apartment Porter | Close to Tube | EPC - C | Sole Agent Knightsbridge 020 3302 7174 knight@brlets.co.uk

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24 hr Concierge | Balcony | Gym | EPC – B | Sole Agent Fulham 020 3503 0015 iw@brlets.co.uk

Kensington

Battersea

£750 pw Furnished

£850 pw Unfurnished

2 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment Nearby Amenities | Close to Tube | EPC - E

3 Bedrooms | Reception | 2 Bathrooms | Apartment 24hr Concierge | Gym | Spa | EPC - B | Sole Agent

Kensington 020 3302 5674

Knightsbridge 020 3302 7174

kens@brlets.co.uk

knight@brlets.co.uk

Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 5

24/01/2017 15:25

Imperial Wharf

London SW6 Apartments to rent from £400 per week

n Premier riverside development adjacent to Chelsea Harbour n Vibrant location; shops, bars, gym and restaurants on your doorstep n Own train station plus water taxi service to the City (20 mins)

Manhattan Studios from £400 per week

2 Bed Apartments from £550 per week

Call us now on 020

3503 0015 or email iw@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk 15 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf, London, SW6 2UB London branches: Canary Wharf | City | Colindale | Ealing | Fulham Greenwich | Hammersmith | Hampstead | Highgate | Hyde Park Kensington | Kew | Knightsbridge | Nine Elms | Surrey Quays | Wapping International: Hong Kong | India | Malaysia | Singapore

Additional charges apply: Tenancy Agreement, Credit Check & Inventory Report.

For details visit www.brlets.co.uk/tenantinfo

• BR_NH_NEWEST.indd 6

Convenient on-site office at 15 The Boulevard, Imperial Wharf (next to the Karen Hardy Dance studio)

24/01/2017 15:25

R AV E N S CO U RT PA R K LO N D O N W12

For you, the family (and the 30 second commute to work).

A collection of beautifully finished 4 and 5 bedroom family homes with an additional mews studio space (to create the perfect home office).

Developer

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

Sales Agents

A S H C H U R C H V I L L A S .C O M 020 3883 6549

ASHCHURCH.indd 1

@ASHCHURCHVILLAS

23/01/2017 18:36

ARE YOU GETTING THE CUSTOMER SERVICE YOU DESERVE? The ESTAS is the largest independent customer service awards scheme for estate agents, mortgage brokers and conveyancers in the UK property industry.

Companies who sign up to The ESTAS are committed to giving YOU the best possible service they can.

So if you’re searching for an estate or letting agent, conveyancer or mortgage broker look out for the official ESTAS logo to give you peace of mind and the service you deserve. Whatever your experience, you’ll have the chance to give your feedback, helping us recognise firms that provide excellent customer service throughout the home moving process.

To find out more visit our website

theestas.com

Because Service Matters ESTA.indd 0048 ESTAS1Absolutely Magazine Ad Oct 2016 AW.indd 1

02/11/2016 12:42 10:35 19/10/2016

AN URBAN OASIS

South Quay Plaza is a development truly unique to the Canary Wharf area. Standing within 2.6 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens and over 150 new trees, it will feel like an urban oasis. At the heart of the park, new cafes and restaurants will provide places to meet and socialise, all by the water’s edge of the South Dock.

To find out more, visit southquayplaza.london/FILMS and watch an interview with our landscape architects.

1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments available. Prices from £742,500.

To make your appointment to view our stunning two bedroom Show Apartment, please call 020 3411 5988 or email southquayplaza@berkeleygroup.co.uk South Quay Plaza

I

Sales & Marketing Suite

I

185 – 189 Marsh Wall

I

London

I

E14 9SH

Computer generated image depicts South Quay Plaza and is indicative only. Prices and information correct at time of going to press.

www.southquayplaza.london Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

SQP.indd 1

25/01/2017 14:38

Think London property.

Think KFH. kfh.co.uk

London-wide reputation. Local expertise.

Our local branches include:

With 40 years’ experience and 60 branches across the Capital, our local knowledge and London network will ensure we achieve the right result for you.

• Bayswater

• Fulham

• Earls Court

• Holland Park

Visit kfh.co.uk to contact your local branch.

• Fulham and Chelsea

• South Kensington

KFH.indd 02 February1 Brand adverts.indd 2

24/01/2017 17:24 15:36 10/01/2017

Holland Park, Holland Park, W11 £1,195,000

A newly refurbished two bedroom lower ground floor apartment with excellent light due to the property’s dual aspect windows and end of terrace location.

The property is situated in one of the most desirable streets in Holland Park.

• • • • • •

Two bedrooms Newly refurbished One bathroom Long lease Leasehold EPC rating D

Holland Park 020 3542 2111 hollandpark.sales@kfh.co.uk

KFH.indd 02.17 KFH 2 Absolutely Central.indd 2

24/01/2017 09:07 15:36 20/01/2017

Richard’s Place, Chelsea, SW3 £1,195,000 South Kensington 020 3040 6370 southkensington.sales@kfh.co.uk

KFH.indd 02.17 KFH 3 Absolutely Central.indd 3

This charming one bedroom flat is filled with natural light and has been newly refurbished. Occupying the first floor it benefits from its own front door and a sunny private roof terrace.

Richard’s Place is a quiet road located in the heart of Chelsea. The closest tube is South Kensington and the shops and restaurants of Brompton Cross are a short walk away.

• • • • • • • • •

Immaculate condition Private roof terrace Breakfast room Modern kitchen New bathroom Private entrance Central Chelsea location Share of freehold EPC rating E

24/01/2017 09:07 15:36 20/01/2017

Redcliffe Square, Chelsea, SW10 Guide price £900,000

A well presented one double bedroom flat in beautiful condition, featuring an impressive reception room with a high ceiling and an abundance of storage, including a generous store⁄utility room.

Earls Court 020 7740 2020 earlscourt.sales@kfh.co.uk

Set on the second floor of an attractive period house in a highly desirable garden square, this wonderful home is conveniently located for the area’s many amenities including Earls Court and West Brompton tube and Overground stations.

KFH.indd 02.17 KFH 4 Absolutely Central.indd 4

• • • • • • • • •

Second floor flat One double bedroom Bespoke fitted storage Separate kitchen Highly desirable location Period charm Close to the tube Leasehold EPC rating D

24/01/2017 09:07 15:36 20/01/2017

Elvaston Place, South Kensington, SW7 £5,633pcm / £1,300pw

A superb three bedroom, 1,359 sq ft, split level apartment located on the fourth and fifth floors with private internal lift access. The property comprises two reception rooms, two private terraces, two bathrooms and an additional WC on the entrance floor.

South Kensington 020 3040 6380 southkensington.lettings@kfh.co.uk

This spacious apartment is situated just off Queen’s Gate within close proximity of Gloucester Road station and Hyde Park.

• • • • • • • •

Three bedrooms with fitted wardrobes Split level over fourth and fifth floors Two large reception rooms Two private terraces Stunning spiral staircase Private internal lift EPC rating D Furnished or unfurnished

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

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24/01/2017 09:08 15:37 20/01/2017

Old Brompton Road, Earls Court, SW5 £7,366pcm / £1,700pw Earls Court 020 7740 2025 earlscourt.lettings@kfh.co.uk

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Recently refurbished and exceptionally large four double bedroom, three bathroom lateral apartment on the first floor of a period mansion block with 24 hour porter, lift and an award winning private garden.

This incredible space also features an array of high specification fittings including an integrated Sonos audio system with built in Wi-Fi access. Ideally located for corporate clients offering easy access to the City.

• • • • • • •

Large four bedrooms Three luxury bathroom Contemporary kitchen 24 hour porter Available now Furnished or part furnished EPC rating C

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

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LIVING THE

DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market

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HEATHFIELD TERRACE W 4 , ÂŁ 1 , 2 9 5 ,0 0 0

HILL GATE STREET

W 8 , ÂŁ 6 ,75 0,0 0 0

G u i d e Pr i c e

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JOHN D WOOD & CO Chiswick, 020 8995 9394; johndwood.co.uk

HARRODS ESTATES Kensington, 020 3650 4602; harrodsestates.com

two double bedroom luxury apartment, finished to a superb standard and overlooking Turnham Green. Offering approximately 1,230 sq. ft. of contemporary accommodation arranged over the second floor of a Georgian house. The property comprises of two double bedrooms, large reception room, fully fitted kitchen/dining room, modern family bathroom and en-suite shower room. u

new build contemporary house designed

by Seth Stein Architects. Set behind a traditional facade and arranged over four floors this spectacular house offers three principal bedroom suites and an additional guest suite, the upper level incorporates a living, dining and kitchen area. From here a separate staircase leads to a study that is linked to the master bedroom suite. u

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ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET

EBURY SQUARE

SW 1 W, £ 2 ,9 5 0

S

PER WEEK

et on the third floor of Belgravia’s exclusive residential development, Ebury Square, this two bedroom apartment is ideally positioned between Sloane Square and Victoria Tube stations. Spanning 1,767 sq ft, the apartment comprises a large reception with parquet wood floors and space for dining that leads out to a private balcony. u BENHAM & REEVES RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS Knightsbridge, 020 7581 2112; brlets.co.uk

MARYLEBONE ROAD

ELGIN CRESCENT W 1 1 , £4 , 5 0 0,0 0 0

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particularly stylish and well presented four bedroom house located on the highly desirable Elgin Crescent. The kitchen/breakfast room is tiled throughout and is a great entertaining space with ample room for a separate seating and dining area. The double reception room has double doors on to a terrace with beautiful views over communal gardens. u

HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL Notting Hill, 020 3369 4384; hamptons.co.uk

N W 1 , £ 3 ,9 9 5 ,0 0 0

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westerly facing penthouse apartment located over two floors of Marathon House, a landmark building developed

by Berkeley Homes which boasts surpurb views across the surrounding area. The property boast three bedrooms, all of which are en suite, two reception rooms and a sleek kitchen/diner.

Other benefits include a residents gym, lift and porter, and three secure parking spaces. u

BENEFITS INCLUDE A RESIDENTS GYM, LIFT, PORTER AND THREE SECURE PARKING PLACES

KFH

Marylebone, 020 3792 4529; kfh.co.uk

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BEAUCHAMP.indd 1

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Lettings 020 7751 5100 www.farrar.co.uk

STADIUM STREET, LONDON, SW10 A fabulous family home with spacious accommodation arranged over 4 floors with a particularly stunning open plan kitchen/ breakfast and dining room with bi-folding doors leading out to the garden. This house benefits from high ceilings, lots of natural light, large bedrooms and is very tastefully furnished and decorated throughout. EPC Rating: D.

FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED

£1,500

per week*

*Tenants are advised when renting a property the advertised rent does not include council tax, water or utility charges. The administration fees are £175 (inc. VAT) and referencing charges of £40 per Tenant/Guarantor. The inventory check in cost will vary but should not exceed £150 and a 6-8 week deposit is required.

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BISHOPS ROAD, LONDON, SW6 This is a fabulous four/five bedroom house with terraces on every floor plus an integral garage. Along with the exceptional design, the quality of the materials used and fixtures and fittings are second to none, resulting in an absolutely luxurious and unique house. The accommodation has been cleverly arranged to ensure it is ideal for both entertaining and everyday living and enjoys spacious bedroom suites, a sauna, gym and wine cellar amongst many other fantastic features. EPC Rating: C.

FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED

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ÂŁ1,950

per week*

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HB1505 Absolutely London - February 17.qxp_HB1505 Absolutely London - Feb 17 19/01/2017 14:18 Page 1

For The Hartley Sale prices call 0800 783 8083 or visit www.hartley-botanic.co.uk

THE FINEST GLASSHOUSES MONEY CAN BUY HARTLEY BOTANIC.indd 1

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