Abs East Nov 12 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

ABSOLUTELY

NOVEMBER 2012 £3.95

PERFECT WEEKEND A guide to Broadway Market

BREAKING BREAD

The best local artisan bakeries

EAST

GUITAR HERO

Paco Peña returns to Sadler’s Wells

TINKER TAILOR

Suited and booted with Gresham Blake

Power Dressing Stylish trouser suits for autumn S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY EAST COVER NOV12.indd 1

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ABSOLUTELY NOVEMBER 2012

26 74

Contents 5

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABSOLUTELY LOVES Absolutely’s top ten this month

CULTURE 9

WHAT’S ON November’s diary

16 LEAD PROFILE Flamenco soloist Paco Peña

STYLE 18 FASHION NEWS The best local clobber

24 POWER DRESSING She who wears the trousers

BEAUTY 44 BEAUTY EDIT The art of staying beautiful

FOOD & TRAVEL

53 FOOD NOTES Morsels of nourishing news 63 ROOM WITH A VIEW A trip to the Tuscan capital

INTERIORS 69 INTERIOR PRODUCTS Back to the future 72 NUDGE NUDGE, WINK WINK David Carter of 40 Winks

39 NOV_C&A_CONTENTS2.indd 2

PROPERTY 78 PROPERTY NEWS 82 IN THEIR OWN WORDS

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ABSOLUTELY

BAR AND RESTAURANT

CITY & ANGEL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT TRAVEL EDITOR FEATURE WRITERS

HARRIET COMPSTON HELEN BARON ROMY VAN DEN BROEKE PRISCILLA POLLARA DANIEL AGNEW GARETH FITZGERALD

ART DIRECTOR

RAY SEARLE

SENIOR DESIGNER

STEWART HYDE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

GEMMA ISTEED

DESIGNERS

ANDREW MAVIN MATHEW JOHN ANA OSPINA

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHERS

Serving pan-asian food and cocktails

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Cosying Up When you stop to think about it, it’s amazing the amount of great theatres and music venues we have on our turf. Important plays and monumental gigs come and go right under our nose - so many, that it’s easy to take them for granted. But as the cooler weather settles in and we spend more of our leisure time indoors, here at Absolutely we’re looking forward to plunging ourselves into some of the cultural highlights of the moment. We were delighted to interview Paco Peña (p.16), Islington resident and the world’s foremost flamenco guitar player. He moved to London in the 1960s to become a professional soloist and has since enjoyed a prolific career, playing with a diverse host artists (Jimi Hendrix and John Williams among them) and touring extensively. Having graced the stages of the best music venues in the world (including New York’s Carnegie Hall and London’s Royal Albert Hall to name but a few), Peña went on to found the world’s first university course on flamenco guitar, at the Rotterdam Conservatory of Music. So, it is with great pleasure that I can tell you he’s returning to Sadler’s Wells this month with his dance company, for a meeting of two legendary local institutions. Autumn being the ideal season in which to parade about in smarter togs, our fashion shoot (p.26) extols the virtues of the trouser suit. This classic ensemble needn’t be dull; add a dash of colour, some ‘80s power dressing, a touch of contemporary haute couture or an Emmanuelle Alt twist and you’re away. In a similarly stylish vein we talk to dedicated follower of fashion, Gresham Blake, the cult contemporary tailor to stars including Eddie Izzard, Plan B and fellow East Ender Ray Winstone. Read the interview on page 25. Another well turned-out gent and true London dandy is David Carter, the acclaimed interior designer and aesthete, who tells us about his enchanting four-storey Queen Anne townhousecum-guest-house on p.72. Dubbed ‘the most beautiful small hotel’ in the world, the building embodies Carter’s maverick, decadent style. He has pulled off a rather stunning example of opulent design. Elsewhere, we’ve put together your guide to a perfect weekend on Broadway Market (p.14) - home to some of the best stalls and foodie shops this side of the river. Delicious.

Helen Baron, Editor

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WHAT’S UP, DOC

After serving as Dr Martens’ poster girl for the last few years, Agyness Deyn has finally designed her own collection for the footwear brand. Employing dark colours and velvet fabrics, the shoes are perfect autumn attire – and check out the Thelma & Louise-style campaign video too, which sees the model embark on a crazy, sexy, cool road trip. 15 Lamb Street, E1; drmartens.com

things we

Absolutely LOVE

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

SHOE-IN

You can never have enough shoes; at least, we, at Absolutely, keep telling ourselves that, because we’ve just seen these new beauties (named Estelle) by Angelina Lee who was recently acknowledged by Vogue Italia as one to watch. We heartily agree: her exquisite designs are bound to catch on with the fashion pack, and we’re already looking forward to the SS13 collection. angelinalee.com

SWEET SCENT

Miller Harris is absolutely our favourite bath and body range at the moment. Trading in a more refined fragrance, the quintessentially English brand is testament to the maxim that simplicity is key. We quite literally cannot get enough – a mere sniff of the citrus line is enough to set us off. millerharris.com

Illustrations for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland often become iconic, from Leonard Weisgard’s art for the first colour edition to Salvador Dali’s stunning take on the story. So, the news of a fresh interpretation saw Absolutely ablaze with excitement. Penguin UK have hooked up with Yayoi Kusama (she of the surreal tendencies), for a visually arresting re-envisioning of the legendary book... £13, 11 Islington Green, N1; waterstones.com

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Absolutely

LOVES

DOTE LONDON AW12 KNITS

We’re settling into conker season nice and proper now, and at any given opportunity from now until the party season begins in earnest, we will mostly be found at home, snug in our pyjamas. And since this is our look of the moment, it may as well be stylishly executed. Enter then, Dote London, whose AW12 collection is all about classic slips and PJs, teamed with cosy knits. dotelondon.com

BASIL BRUSH

A great find for those of us who are into the whole ‘grow your own’ ideal, but who lack the necessary garden space. Each gift set includes a cute little pot and trowel as well as the compost and the seeds: easy! Now you can grow your own herbs from the comfort of your (dry) window sill. Our pick is basil – pizza and pasta never looked (or smelled) so good. £9.65; wonkybunny.co.uk

ETERNAL FLAME

We’re rather enamoured of the Malin + Goetz perfumery range. Our pick is Absolute Rose, which contains essential oils extracted from the Moroccan rose via a traditional steam distillation process. We love its therapeutical aroma – an ideal stress-reliever. £37; malinandgoetz.com

HATE MAIL

Shoreditch illustrator Mr Bingo steers full speed towards controversy with his latest project, Hate Mail. The collection of postcards are emblazoned with insults like ‘You’re Fat’, making for some interesting postal possibilities. Only suitable for someone with a sense of humour... £9.99; penguin.co.uk

MOVEMBER AT BYRON

Men in moustaches! We do love Movember. Byron Burger are continuing their support of the charity for a third consecutive year with the launch of the MO Burger, created by local lass and chef Gizzi Erskine. For every burger sold, 50p will go towards raising awareness of men’s health issues. Between 7th-20th November, registered ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Sistas’ who have raised over £25, will be able to bag a free hamburger and the new Spitalfields branch is now open, so there’s no excuse not to join in. uk.movember.com

GUSTAV KLIMT: THE COMPLETE PAINTINGS

This new book from Taschen is simply beautiful. Compiled to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Klimt’s birth, it’s a testament to the enduring popularity of his work. His fame rests on his reputation as one of the greatest painters and graphic artists of his times, and his depictions of feminine sensuality are particularly admired. £135; Taschen.com 7

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Whats on November 2012

Fireworks at Victoria Park Remember, remember the fifth of November... Wrap up warm for Victoria Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most explosive event. Thousands go to watch the fireworks every year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a brilliant way to mark the coming of winter and add a little magic to those cold November nights. towerhamlets.gov.uk, Victoria Park; E9

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HorseWorldLive 16th-18th November ExCeL London Attention equestrian folk – London’s freshest and most highly-anticipated horse show is nearing, and it looks set to be a superb display of British sporting prowess! The three-day event will see dressage, eventing, show jumping and western performances by some of the world’s best riders and their stunning horses. One Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, E16; horseworldlive.com

Jazz Festival 9th-18th November Barbican Venues across London will play host to a 10-day musical extravaganza this month, as dozens of big names take to the stage and prove that jazz is still very much alive and well. The London Jazz Festival is a highlight of the capital’s cultural calendar, and many of the performances will take place right under our nose at the Barbican. Head down to see geniuses such as Flavia Coelho, Jan Garbarek and Brad Mehidau do their thing. Silk Street, EC2; londonjazzfestival.org.uk

Battle of the Bottles 20th November Super Tuscan This Italian wine bar will be hosting a monthly wine-tasting which will adopt a ruthless voting scheme that will see the lowestscoring wines removed from the bar’s menu and the best-loved vintages take their place. It’s a fun concept – oeno-democracy – and the resident chefs will be on hand to knock up authentic Italian grub to accompany the tasting. 8A Artillery Passage, E1; supertuscan.co.uk

Katie Sims: Opening Gambit Until 10th November Hoxton Art Gallery British artist Katie Sims will be showing her exceptional work for the first time in London this autumn. Already much-acclaimed – having scooped up both the Richard Ford Award and the Midas Award to name but two – Sims is about to take the art world by storm. One of the most exciting artists in her debut London show, culture fans would be mad to miss it. 64 Charlotte Road, EC2; hoxtonartgallery.co.uk

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Absolutely

DIARY

Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair 7th-11th November Business Design Centre It’s time to get festive! What better way to do so than attending the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair in Islington? Gifts galore, festive food and party essentials will get you feeling Christmassy in no time. Head down with the family and indulge in some Christmas cheer. 52 Upper Street, N1; countrylivingfair.com

The Dark Earth and The Light Sky 8th November-12 January 2013 Almeida Theatre The new play by acclaimed playwright Nick Dear follows the turbulent life of writer and poet Edward Thomas. A man plagued by self-doubt and caught in a state of permanent dissatisfaction, Thomas’ life changed abruptly when he met fellow poet Robert Frost. Thomas soon found his voice and became one of the most inspiring poets of the twentieth century – but his newfound strength led to a controversial decision to enlist in the army, with tragic consequences. Lauded director Richard Eyre is at the helm of this much-anticipated performance. Almeida Street, N1; almeida.co.uk Mel Bochner: If The Colour Changes 12th October-30th December Whitechapel Gallery New York artist and major player in the world of conceptual art, Mel Bochner takes over much of the gallery this autumn for an exhibition brimming with language and colour. Covering Bochner’s development over 50 years in the art game, the show also includes his most recent works, the ‘thesaurus’ paintings, packed with vivid strings of repeated words . Admission free, 77-82 Whitechapel High Street, E1; whitechapelgallery.org

Elf Yourself 23rd November between 3pm and 7pm N1 Centre Our favourite shopping mall is feeling festive! ‘Come as yourself, leave as an elf’ will transform kids into little helpers in time for Christmas and includes a photograph with Santa himself. Santa’s post- box will also be on site, so make sure your little ones write to St Nick before the 10th of December! Parkfield Street, N1; n1islington.com The Lord Mayor’s Show 10th November In keeping with tradition, this three-mile, 800 year-old procession of people, bands, horses, cars, carriages and floats will stomp through the streets of London this month. To celebrate the taking of office of the 685th Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Roger Gifford, the parade will work its way through the City to the Royal Courts of Justice, where Gifford will swear loyalty to the Crown. One final British celebration to draw the year to a close; and why not? lordmayorsshow.org 11

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PIHOTOGRAPHY: RETNA

Subsonic Fred Perry celebrated 60 years in fashion at the Garage, Islington. Born in 1952, the brand has championed British musical subcultures for six decades, something its momentous anniversary party celebrated with a headline set from The Charlatans and DJs including Norman Jay, Don Letts and Terry Hall of The Specials.

The Charlatans

Terry Hall and Don Letts Jamie Hince and Pam Hogg

Socials Absolutely

Jaime Winston and Nick Grimshaw

Kate Moss and Jamie Hince

Norman Jay

Dream and Drive The Kills book exhibition launched at the Hoxton Gallery last month. The blues rock duo invited close friends Jaime Winstone, Nick Grimshaw, Noel Fielding, Pam Hogg and – of course – Mrs Hince (aka Kate Moss) for a sneak peek of the retrospective which documents an epic nine years in the life of the band.

Suki Waterhouse

Nicoholas Winding Refn

Paul Morley of Orbital

Pusher Premier The scenesters of London flocked to the Hackney Picturehouse to catch model-turned-actress Agyness Deyn in Pusher, her film debut. The party included cast members Bronson Webb, Richard Coyle and Suki Waterhouse, director Nicolas Winding Refn and musical legends Orbital, who were responsible for the soundtrack. The after-party was held just down the road at Shoreditch’s Hoxton Pony.

Agyness Deyn

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A perfect weekend in and around

Broadway Market

Shop

alling all coffee, cheese and chorizo snobs: Broadway Market is a heaving mass of stalls (mostly foodie) and a veritable Mecca for the hungry, greasy-spoonweary hoards. Taco-loving hipsters can be found spending their last fiver on a slice of fresh cheesecake alongside yummy mummies, slummy mummies and fashionable dads stuffing saucisson and Taleggio into bulging Ally Capellino knapsacks. Those who come to pick up stuffed olives, falafel or a hydrangea centrepiece often go home with more than they’d bargained for – a bag of chanterelle mushrooms never seemed so necessary. Those seeking a spot of lunch can be found jostling their neighbours for a Lucky Chip burger or a Sporeboys mushroom risotto. The stalls range from the exotic (the Arabica Food and Spice Company) to the more traditional (Born and Bread bakery) and the market runs every blessed Saturday. That’s in addition to the permanent restaurants, pubs, vintage fashion and furniture shops, independent book shops, bike shops, boutiques, barbers and delis (phew) that line the street.

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Absolutely

Drink

LOCAL Climpson & Sons

A coffee purist’s heaven, at least if the queues are anything to go by. Dog-lovers and their lurchers mingle with rockabillies on the benches outside, all vying for a decent shot of freshly ground goodness. webcoffeeshop.co.uk

Off Broadway

Purveyors of authentic pulled pork tacos, this cocktail bar is leading the way in the Mexican street food stakes. The manager grew up on Mexican cooking in his hometown of LA, and has nailed the cuisine of his ancestors. After a couple of Mescal Margheritas, you’re likely to get stuck into a big plate of nachos and salsa. offbroadway.org.uk

Hackney Bureau

Just up the road and round the corner on Mare Street, this is a cute café full of mismatched furniture, long wooden tables and chefs holding court in the corner. It does the best blueberry pancakes this side of, well, anywhere. hackneybureau.com

Do Hackney City Farm

One of the better city farms in the area, this one has an Italian restaurant and cafe on-site – not that there’s a shortage of places to eat nearby. It also runs a number of fabulous schemes and activities, such as the Big Green Challenge, strawbale building, beekeeping, bicycle hire and repair, an intergenerational project and yoga. hackneycityfarm.co.uk

Nearby Columbia Road

A short distance away is the famous flower market. The barrow boys are out every Sunday between midday and 3pm, selling all sorts of lovely stems for a fiver or thereabouts. With 60 independent shops along the road, it’s another good lunch, coffee or pub grub destination (though you need to book early for a roast at local favourite The Royal Oak). columbiaroad.info 15

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Highly strung Helen Baron talks to Paco Peña, the world’s foremost flamenco guitar player

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earing Paco Peña’s voice is almost like hearing him play. He speaks English well – beautifully you might say – with soft lilting tones, the occasional earthy rasp and clipped enunciation that betrays his Andalusian origins. There’s more than one reason Spanish is called a ‘Romance’ language – I am reminded of Javier Bardem in Vicky Cristina Barcelona, fingerpicking delicate melodies on his flamenco guitar. For those of you who don’t know, Paco Peña is revered as one of the world’s leading flamenco guitar players. It’s worth taking a moment or two to think about what that means in terms of accomplishment – though as I suspected before talking to him, Peña himself is humble about his achievements. I had imagined that a deep understanding of flamenco would involve an absolute respect for the music, the instrument and what it means to be able to play well, over and above much else – and I was correct. But when speaking with Peña, it is humanity rather than ego that comes to the fore. It is well-documented that Peña learned the guitar from his brother. He laughs to remember it, saying ‘Yes, although there was never any formal teaching, you know? That’s not how it was. We were poor so we didn’t have lessons. It was more that he showed me the basics, but we were not unique in the community. A lot of people could play and it was

something that was passed down.” In this way, Peña’s upbringing in Córdoba played a large part in the formation of his artistic identity. But the tradition that stirred so many shook Peña to his core – and ignited a passion that would shape his life to come. Peña does not dwell for long on the whys and wherefores, concentrating instead on the act itself: he simply wants to play. When I ask how old he was when he first realised his talent was of a special sort, he thanks me for the compliment but insists that there was no epiphany, no moment of revelation. ‘As a boy,’ he says, ‘I played often – but not by any means all of the time. I had school and other things to do... but you keep playing, and as you get older that’s when it becomes serious. I then learned in a more formal way and in the classical style.’

“It was momentous to play with Jimi Hendrix.” Intrigued, I ask how many hours a day he plays now; after all, isn’t it the amount of playing that sets the masters apart? Peña laughs. ‘Of course,’ he says, ‘in the past, I would play 25 hours a day! I don’t play as much now because I’m directing, writing and I have other people to play for me.’ And why did he leave Spain to pursue his career, it being the heartland of flamenco? He tells me he returns often. ‘It’s not so much that I left. Flamenco was not really heard outside of Spain; also, you didn’t play as a soloist within Spain and I was frequently asked to play as one overseas.’ Having moved to London, he generated much interest from a largely uninitiated British public, and his popularity grew. Peña travelled the world, widening his appeal as he went – in fact, he’s played so many places that he recalls moments rather than specific locations or venues. ‘I remember playing Germany,’ he tells me, ‘sitting alone in the hall with my guitar and feeling a wonderful appreciation for the audience. We were told that a German audience can be cold but they were warm and enthusiastic and to tour there was a very special experience. Of course, America is a fantastic country, so rich in terms of landscape... I feel very lucky to have been to so many places.’

He goes on to recall the time he played the Royal Festival Hall with Jimi Hendrix. ‘That was momentous to play with such an artist,’ he says ‘and to play with people like John Williams, a wonderful guitar player who has taught me so much. To play with such people stays in your mind.’ He speaks about other great flamenco guitar players such as Paco de Lucia (whom he knows but with whom he has never performed), saying, ‘It’s remarkable just to be in their presence, to exchange ideas and learn from them.’ He remembers playing with jazz guitarist Joe Pass and Argentinian folk guitarist Eduardo Falú (whose name he makes sound like a song in itself), and sharing bills with Britain’s much revered Julian Bream: ‘I feel privileged to have done so.’ Peña has clearly enjoyed the more innovative aspects of the projects he’s decided to take on in more recent years. ‘I don’t particularly look back on my shows but I was asked to compose a flamenco march which involved a classical choir too, and that fascinated me,’ he says. ‘The coming together of two such different cultures was hair-raising for me.’ He tells me of the music that excites him – some classical and the more exotic rhythms of South America. His Flamenco Sin Fronteras project explores the relationship between Venezuelan music and flamenco, which leads us nicely to his current focus, Quimeras, which features the Paco Peña Flamenco Dance Company performing a story about immigrants from Africa arriving in Andalusia. He is clearly deeply passionate about it. ‘Growing up in Córdoba, you see many people crossing the country. Having seen immigration up close, as it were, I wanted to represent those people who face discrimination and violence in the pursuit of finding a better life for themselves. To cross borders is a legitimate thing and multiculturalism is enriching, so I’m very excited about mixing an African sound with flamenco and exploring their points in common.’ It sounds like he’s having a great time, and as a resident of Dartmouth Park he’s thrilled to be returning to Sadler’s Wells, a local institution, with a show that will make people think as well as feel. I finish up by asking him what it takes to be the best flamenco player in the world. He laughs, ‘Wow. It’s not that I consider myself what you say, but in my own ambition, I seek to present the art, and project it with the spirit as intended by the composer as fully as possible. Anyone who can pursue the art with honesty... I would look for that in any great guitarist.’ Quimeras runs from 23 Nov–1 Dec. Sadler’s Wells, Rosebury Avenue, EC1; sadlerswells.com 17

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23/10/2012 20:58

Absolutely

FASHION

REISS’s PIECES Minimal never looked so good. Seeing as it’s

time to invest in a winter coat, we’re rather enamoured of Reiss’s array of oversized shapes. This sleek number invokes the spirit of the city and is sure to make your 9-5 that much more stylish. You can’t say fairer than that. Lois oversized jacket in soft blue, £245, 30 Islington Green, N1; reiss.com

The Hot List The latest news, trends and products... All things fashion, filtered

IT’S A GUY THING Zara, a dyed-in-the-wool

favourite, are back on our radar again thanks to their impressive AW collection of outerwear. Always reliable for fashion-forward office staples, this boyfriend coat is on our wish-list; it looks smart dressed up or down. £89.99, Zara, Westfield Stratford City

KNIT WIT Michael van der Ham has only gone and

collaborated with knitwear giant Brora, resulting in exquisite multi-coloured designs in delicate Intarsia knits. Van der Ham, who excels at complex collaging, lends his signature to the Brora aesthetic and we especially love the cashmere dress and mohair jumper. 186 Upper Street, N1 & 81 Marylebone High Street, W1; brora.co.uk

Window display of the month Belle & Bunty 45a Brecknock Road, N7 belleandbunty.co.uk

RING BEARER

Muswell Hill-based Sarah Straussberg studied woods and metals, working in sculpture before developing her interest in jewellery and splitting her interests into separate workshop practices. Themes of multiplicity and repetition are threaded through her designs, exploring (in her own words) the idea of ‘a culminating mass of related forms’ – our favourite example is her Bella ring, £260. sarahstraussberg.com 19

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For more than 100 years in Italy, Marinella has been the place to buy ties, scarves, bow-ties, knitwear, shoes and all the accessories a gentleman could desire. Visit its new boutique in the heart of Mayfair for the perfect gift for ladies and gentlemen any time. Browse its collection of handcrafted ties, or choose from a wide range of accessories including leather goods.

Stunning photography for all occasions Events, Products & Portraits: www.charlottefieldingphotography.com

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28/06/2012 11:09

23/10/2012 20:57

Absolutely

FASHION

1 4 10

LANVIN A/W/12-13

Baroque and roll Gothic, edgy and opulence incarnate, if it ain’t Baroque, don’t fix it

1. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Victorian puckering wool jacquard dress, £885; alexandermcqueen.co.uk 2. CALLY Baroque print leggings, £10; boohoo.com 3. DOLCE & GABBANA Mini Miss Sicily embroidered velvet bag, £1544.60; luisaviaroma.com 4. ETRO Embroidered loafer, £360.41; luisaviaroma.com 5. MARNI Printed wool crepe cropped trouser, £530; marni.com 6. WILBUR & GUSSIE Edith bronze lace clutch, £169; arkangelandfelon.com 7. NEW LOOK Parisian black and gold leaf jacquard shorts, £17.99; newlook.com 8. DOLCE & GABBANA Tapestry ankle boots, £475; net-a-porter.com 9. VERSACE Embroidered coat, £3,010; versace.com 10. ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Mantaray clutch, £315; matchesfashion.com 21

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Absolutely

FASHION

Back to black

Loving family man, motorcycle adventurer and a dab hand with a light-sabre? Okay, so Ewan McGregor is obscenely gifted, but he still seems like a pretty decent guy. Which would explain why British luxury brand Belstaff has chosen him to front its AW12 campaign, all badass black leather and lady-melting knits. The Force may never be strong in you, the ads seem to say, but you can dress like Ewan all the same. Good enough for us. belstaff.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: EDDIE JACOB

Men’s own

Your inside track on the latest in men’s style and shopping

STORMPROOF

It may have flown by, but that doesn’t make it any less of an achievement: 2012 sees menswear innovators Albam celebrate five years in the business, and their new season garb is possibly the brand’s best yet. Classic British workwear is given an understated but striking contemporary update – we’re particularly excited about the ingenious Squall parka, complete with cap hood to keep the rain at bay. Though with Albam’s future looking so bright, they might not need it… 286 Upper St, N1 and 111a Commercial Street, E1, albamclothing.com

Black crepe All tied up

East London start-up Marwood has been producing handmade ties and pocket squares for a while, but this season saw Hoxton’s Goodhood store stocking many of the brand’s exquisite silk creations. Beat the rush and snaffle your A-list accessories now. Prices start at £60 marwoodlondon.co.uk and goodhoodstore.com, 41 Coronet Street, N1 6HD

US sneaker supremos Common Projects have turned out some desirable treads in their time, but these crepe sole Derby shoes are something else again. Smart but not stuffy and bearing the signature gold stamp on the heel, you can pick them up at Marylebone’s Trunk Clothiers.£295 from Trunk Clothiers, 8 Chiltern Street, W1; trunkclothiers.com

WEBSITE OF THE MONTH

The web is great, but it’s so big – and all too easy to spend your entire life surfing as you try to uncover the latest trends and products. Praise be, then, for Cool Hunting, which began life as a humble design blog in 2003 and now presents the very best in art, style, culture and commerce from around the world. With tons of contributors covering the most diverse and dynamic content, it’s a treasure trove of amazing inspiration and information – and the site’s brilliant gift guide means you’ll never buy a dud present again. coolhunting.com

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COLMAN

COYLE Solicitors

Colman Coyle June12.indd 1

31/05/2012 11:33

Absolutely

FASHION

Cut a Dash Local tailor Gresham Blake talks suits, celebs and the secret to succeeding in men’s fashion

How and why did you get into tailoring? I was always really interested in clothes. My mum made clothes for the Paul Raymond Revue Bar – the clients were strippers and transvestites. She worked out of a department store in Bayswater and there was a back room where all the drag queens would get fitted for clothes in secret, because you couldn’t be open about all that back then. One day I asked her to take in a pair of jeans for me and she told me to do it myself. She was a bit of a feminist, my mum. How did you break into the industry? I did loads of free work. I worked for John Hume, who was what they called a ‘troubleshooting’ tailor on Savile Row. That meant he made clothes for customers with physical disabilities, the military and women: very un-PC. But it was great experience for me. I also worked with the people who made stuff for Turnbull & Asser, so I learned how to cut a suit. When was the Gresham Blake brand born? The late 1990s; I’d finished college and wanted to get my name out there, but no one was going to write about me – I needed a couple of famous customers. I ended up making suits for Mark Williams from The Fast Show and Jay Kay from Jamiroquai. That got me enough press in Brighton to bring in my first few customers. I worked from a room above a shop that cost £50 a week, which seemed like a fortune! Every penny I earned went back into buying fabric, building the business, and eventually we had two shops in Brighton and another in Mayfair – plus a ready-towear line, producing suits, shirts and ties to buy off-thepeg. Why did you choose to move the London shop to Spitalfields? Most of my clients came from East London. I have a really nice mix of customers – city guys

who work in finance, people from the creative industries. Spitalfields is a colourful area and all the local businesses look out for each other. There’s a real community here, which I love. What do people expect from Gresham Blake garments? We design most of the fabrics we use and we only use British mills. I’ve visited China and seen the quality of their cloth: it’s not a patch on what we produce here. Having good relationships with British suppliers also means that I can order small amounts of fabric and make more unique stuff. My clients like the personality that’s in the clothes. Yes, we can make a traditional navy suit, but if you want a touch of something striking, we do that too. I like to think our signature clothing has humour in it – without being novelty. Tell us about the E1 Collection, your recent collaboration with Hackney-based micromill the London Cloth Company… Daniel and his girlfriend, who own the company, wrote me a letter – that’s how traditional they are – and I went to see them the next day. They’d bought this weaving machine and spent two years fixing it up, and the cloth they produce is great quality; a bit softer and more wearable than a Harris tweed, but still with a lovely raw feel. We’ve made some beautiful jackets with it. Next we’re looking at working with wool from British rare breed sheep. Which celebs have you dressed? Ray Winstone, Nick Cave, Norman Cook. Krishnan Guru-Murthy and David Dimbleby both wear my ties and recently had an exchange on the letters page of The Times, one ribbing the other about wearing ‘his’ tie onscreen. That was nice because it wasn’t a setup. What’s your top tip for someone thinking about investing in a bespoke suit? I’m a big fan of a tweed three-piece: you can wear the jacket, waistcoat and trousers separately or together and they always look amazing. You get a lot of wear from a good tweed suit. 143 Commercial Street, E1; greshamblake.com greshamblake.com 25

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She who wears the trousers Man up in the boldest, brightest trouser suits and separates PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BROOK STYLING BY ALEX LONGMORE

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NATALIE WEARS: CARDIGAN, £280 BY HOUSE OF HOLLAND SANDRO SHIRT,£135 AND TROUSERS, £175, DUNE SHOES, £70 HAT, £79 BY HELENE BERMAN

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NW3 TROUSERS, £99 CHINTI & PARKER JUMPER, £305 SHOES BY SAM EDELMAN, £200, CAROLE TANENBAUM NECKLACE, £3,130

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SUIT TROUSERS, £320 AND BLAZER, £530 BY PAPER, JUMPER BY MARKS & SPENCER, £29.50 GLASSES BY PERIDOT, £159

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TOP, £848 BY J BRAND NECKLACE BY CAROLE TANENBAUM, £2,262, TROUSERS, £315 BY PAUL AND JOE, CONVERSE SHOES, £44.99

CREDITS

STYLED BY ALEX LONGMORE, WWW.ALEXLONGMORE.CO.UK FASHION ASSISTANT: SASKIA PECKHAM PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID BROOK LOCATION: WWW.SHOOTSOLUTIONS.COM 020 8960 9003 MAKE UP: CAROLINE SIMS AT DEBBIE WALTERS MANAGEMENT USING MAC. HAIR: LUKE AT SAKS WWW.SAKS.CO.UK MODEL: NATALIE AT STORM

STOCKISTS

CAROLE TANENBAUM KABIRI.CO.UK CHINTI & PARKER WWW.CHINTIANDPARKER.COM DUNE DUNE.CO.UK ERICKSON BEAMON 0207 259 0202 J BRAND AVAILABLE AT HARRODS 0207 730 1234 HELENE BERMAN AT FENWICK FENWICK.CO.UK HOUSE OF HOLLAND HOUSEOFHOLLAND.CO.UK HOBBS NW3 HOBBS.CO.UK JITROIS JITROIS.COM MARKS & SPENCER MARKSANDSPENCER.COM CONVERSE SHOES AVAILABLE AT OFFICE, WWW.OFFICE.CO.UK PAPER PAPERLONDON.COM PAUL & JOE 0207 824 8844 PERIDOT PERIDOTLONDON.COM SAM EDELMAN WWW.SAMEDELMAN.COM SANDRO 0207 229 1720

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Pamela Shiffer It’s nearing that time of the year when panic starts to set in because you’ve realised either all your winter clothes are starting to look “so last year”, or the black tie event you’ve put to the back of your mind is round the corner. Sound familiar? Panic not, because luckily, you live in North London and the Pamela Shiffer boutique is in Primrose Hill. Breathe with a sigh of relief, because all your fashion nightmares have all been solved. 75 Regent’s Park Road, London NW1 8UY, 020 7483 4483; www.pamelashiffer.com

Cream of the crop Spotlighting the best of north and north west Bibliotheque Bibliotheque are a family-run business, trading for 11 years but have been in the tile industry for the past 25 years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience. The business is very much service-oriented, guiding clients through the many possibilities available, supplying tiles for small kitchens and larger homes, entrance hallways, cinema rooms and swimming pools. Bibliotheque Ltd: Arch 2, The Viaduct St James Lane London N10 3QX, 0208 365 2084, info@bibliotheque.co.uk www.bibliotheque.co.uk

Meat People Yes, they mainly do meat, but they do it well. Meat People is a brand new concept restaurant situated on Essex Road, right across from Islington Green. Inspired by their Grade II listed setting, it serves prime cuts and traditional favourites. Fish and other seafood are on offer alongside exotic meats such as zebra, kangaroo and springbok. 4-6 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 8LN, 0207 359 5361; www.meatpeople.co.uk 32

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ADVERTISING FEATURE Ladybird Bar Ladybird is a speakeasy, cocktail bar and late night music venue offering an extensive range of cocktails and have introduced DJs playing a mix of classic tracks, replayed, remixed and re-edited… soul, disco, house and Balearic beats… Afternoon Tea (happy hour) 5pm - 9pm daily and all night Monday Selected Cocktails at £5, Massive sharing Cocktails £18, Bubbly £18 per bottle. 70 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 0NY; www.ladybirdbar.co.uk. Please note, Door policy does apply and guests are advised to book a table over the weekend. Bookings: 07812390482

Calligaris comes to Islington Panache Casa London is proud to announce the addition of a 110 sq foot Calligaris Gallery to their Islington showroom. Customers can view new UK product lines as well as exclusive ranges. Combined with their existing designer furniture from the world’s leading brands, their new look showroom will offer you unparalleled contemporary furniture, lighting & accessories right on your doorstep. 85 Canonbury Road, N1 2DG, E: sales.uk@panachecasa.com, 0207 226 1006; www.panachecasa.com MH Costa Construction Building up an enviable reputation for delivering outstanding levels of quality and customer service, MH Construction’s in-house team of skilled craftsmen produce beautiful projects to the highest standard of finish, often exceeding client expectations. They provide a complete service, including design and build if required, for residential and commercial building and refurbishment projects within London and the Home Counties. MH Costa Construction Ltd, 0208 450 7341 info@mhcosta.com; www.mhcosta.com

Wax Jambu Synonymous with cutting edge cocktails and alternative music, Wax Jambu have a passion for great drinks, impeccable service and an ear for anything fresh and inspiring. Sample the seasonal cocktail menu, have a bespoke drink made, or be enticed by one of the many competition-winning cocktails. Don’t forget the Rum Cove upstairs, host to over 100 rums! 144-145 Upper Street, Islington N1 1QY, 020 7226 7660, Facebook: waxjambu, Twitter: @waxjambulondon, www.waxjambu.co.uk

Tag Architects Renowned for fully modernising London period houses to create beautiful, energy-efficient homes whilst maintaining and sensitively enhancing the classic features of the property, Tag Architects offer a full range of architectural and interior design services that will ensure your house achieves a cohesive look and feel, inside and out. www. tag-architects.co.uk; 020 7431 7974 33

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angel christmas fair

8 - 9 December 2012 th

Admission Free Opening hours: 11am-6pm

Candid Galleries 3 Torrens Street Islington, London EC1V 1NQ

office@candidarts.com www.candidarts.com 020 7837 4237 (behind angel tube station)

painting ceramics photography sculpture printmaking fashion textiles jewellery accessories illustration glass HACKNEY EMPIRE presents

Written & Directed by

SUSIE McKENNA Music by

STEVEN EDIS Design by

LOTTE COLLETT

DEC JAN to

01 06 CITY ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 9

The Times (Jack & the Beanstalk)

HACKNEYEMPIRE.CO.UK

020 8985 2424

24/10/2012 11:17

Kinetic Pilates Kinetic Pilates specialises in private and small group classes offering dynamic, personal workouts. All instructors are certified by Romana, Joseph Pilates’ chosen heir to his work (which has 90 years of proven results). Everyone who studies Pilates can trace their roots back to Romana; their teachers or their teacher’s teachers trained with or were taught by Romana. Pilates as it was intended. The first session is half price. 4 Ossian Mews N4 4RH; www.kineticpilates.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Lotus Clinic The Lotus Clinic is a Dental and Aesthetic Medicine clinic where Dr Michael Frankl offers dental and aesthetic medicine treatments all under one roof. The Clinic boasts state of the art equipment and the latest technology. The team consists of highly qualified specialists working in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry as well as laser specialist and aesthetic medicine nurses. Lotus also offer free consultations on all treatments. 943 Finchley Road, London, NW11 7PE, 0208 2018080, info@lotusclinic.co.uk; www. lotusclinic.co.uk

3 House Club 3 House is a new private family club in St.John’s Wood. Catering for children under five and their parents, it offers a child-friendly cafe with a soft play area as well as an outdoor playground. There are numerous activities for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, and classes are inspired by world-renowned specialists in child development. Parents can also benefit from workshops and moderated discussion groups, as well as fitness classes and beauty days. The club provides wi-fi plus a crèche and is the perfect venue for childrens’ parties. Altogether, it’s the perfect place for happy parents and happy children. 3 House Club, Bridgeman Street, London NW8 7AL, 020 7586 9871 info@3houseclub.com, www.3houseclub.com

Halcyon Interiors Every surface of the new Alno Cera range is made from ceramic, giving it a completely seamless look. Ceramic is extremely hard-wearing, impossible to stain and hot pots can be put directly on it. The Alno Store, 120 Wigmore Street, W1U 3LS; 0207 486 3080

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A NE Wprivate family club for parents and children under 5 Only opening just a minute away from St. John’s Wood High Street!

What

3 House

s Club offer cafe with a healthy, organic and * Childfriendly delicious menu for kids and parents, soft play

* Pilates, yoga and other ﬁtness opportunities

classes are inspired by child development * Our specialists all around the world including Reggio

* Beauty and massage days for parents. * Weekly popup shop from independent online

area and outdoor playground, place for buggies.

Emilia School and Glenn Doman’s of The Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential

* Activities for babies, toddlers and preschool children that are not only fun, but also advance their curiosity, confidence, coordination, communication andconcentration.

* Workshops expert presentations and moderated

discussions groups on parenting, health, career and other relevant topics.

for parents.

boutiques for parents and small kids.

* WiFi internet access and a Quiet Zone to catch up on your emails, work or reading while your baby is having a nap or your toddler is having a class.

* Crèche, so you actually can take advantage of what we are offering.

* Great venue and entertainment for birthday parties for children.

3HOUSE.indd 1

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E U Q S E L BUR ORETTES BACHEULD AT PR O

CABARET

A GIRL EXPECTS HER LAST NIGHT OF FREEDOM TO BE NOTHING SHORT OF LAVISH DEBAUCHERY! PROUD CABARET WILL ENSURE JUST THAT, WITH ITS PLUSH INTERIORS, SUMPTUOUS FOOD & STUNNING ENTERTAINMENT!

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Fresh, not frozen The Waterhouse Young Clinic’s gentle approach to wrinkle-free skin

,f like many people, you believe that Botox can only achieve results by freezing your natural facial expressions, it’s time to think again. Dr Mica Engel, one of Waterhouse Young’s cosmetic doctors, unravels the myths about Botox and shares her secret to a fresh, wrinkle-free appearance without frozen features. What’s Botox used for? Botox is used to treat frown lines, crow’s feet, ‘bunny’ lines on the nose, smile lines and to tighten the skin around the neck and jowls. It’s also become popular for treating excessive sweating of the armpits, hands, feet and forehead, and teeth grinding (which can cause headaches and damage to teeth). Does Botox still have a stigma? People used to think that if you’d had Botox it gave you status. Now it’s an everyday treatment. The stigma surrounding it is far less than it used to be, and with a conservative approach no one need ever know you’ve had it done. How can I look fresh, not frozen? When you smile or frown the muscles in your face contract, causing lines and wrinkles. Over time these lines become permanent. Botox works by relaxing the muscle, but too much can stop all movement, which gives a frozen look. We prefer to subtly enhance your features, rather than give you a stiff, unnatural look, so we take a conservative approach. We start by injecting very small amounts into precise points in the muscle thus softening wrinkles but keeping some muscle movement.

We’ll see you two weeks later to make sure you’re happy with the results and, if needed, we’ll fine-tune them by giving you a top-up treatment. Who should carry out Botox? Botox is a prescribed medicine, so you’ll meet one of our aesthetic doctors for a full skin consultation. If you decide together that it’s the right treatment for you, they’ll prescribe it. Botox injections should only be given by a qualified doctor with relevant training – at our clinic they are always carried out by one of our aesthetic doctors. Ideally, you should choose someone registered with regulatory body, the British College of Aesthetic Medicine. All our aesthetic doctors and nurses are registered. What are the alternatives? While Botox is effective and safe, there are alternatives, such as: • Dermal ﬁllers, which are injected into the skin to plump it up and smooth lines; • Dermaroller, a micro skin-needling treatment that triggers the body into regenerating collagen and elastin, making it perfect for treating scarring, facial and décolleté lines and overall skin rejuvenation; and • Medical Facials, which give a temporary result by plumping up the skin to soften lines, making them appear reduced. We’ll talk you through your choices at the consultation to help you find the right treatment for you. Whatever you decide, we’ll always take a gentle approach to leave you with wrinkle-free skin that makes you feel great.

WRINKLE-BUSTING OFFER Waterhouse Young Clinic is offering Absolutely readers a complimentary computerised skin consultation and 20% off your Botox or dermal filler treatment when booked on the day of consultation. To book, call 020 7486 3849 or visit waterhouseyoung.com

BOTOX MYTH BUSTERS 1. Botox freezes your facial expressions You can choose to have a more frozen look, but it’s not necessary. By injecting small, precise amounts we can soften the lines, but keep movement around the eye area, so you’ll still have your facial expressions. 2. Botox is toxic Botox is a purified form of Botulinum toxin. The concentration of the toxin is very low and when it’s injected in pinpoint amounts it won’t spread to other areas of the body, making it a safe treatment. 3. Botox is painful Most people only feel a mild, stinging sensation, however, some find the treatment uncomfortable. Mica has a lot of experience and skill with Botox injections and many clients comment on her soft touch. In addition, the Waterhouse Young clinic use a revolutionary new technique to numb the area and minimise any discomfort. The treatment is over before you know it.

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indulge yourself AT The lAborATory spA

The lAborATory SpA & heAlTh club FULL PAGE.indd 2

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non members welcome

muswell hill The Avenue n10 2Qe cAll 020 8482 3000 mill hill hAll lAne nW4 4TJ cAll 020 8457 3300 lAbspA.co.uk

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ice? v r e S e v i t u c Exe You work hard to afford and enjoy the finer things in life, so experience London's premiere male grooming Medical Spa.

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During a visit to MSH Wellbeing you will receive a gold standard of service.

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Unwind with your choice from our range of specialist massage therapies

De-stress with a luxurious facial All our treatments are delivered by highly trained and experienced therapists, overseen by a Qualified Nurse. Discreet, confidential, and professional.

Suite C, Maples Business Centre, 144 Liverpool Road London N1 1LA

020 7697 1050 www.mshwellbeing.co.uk Find / follow us on

Dental and Aesthetic Medicine treatments available.

start yoga. tri now. 2 weeks for £20* unlimited yoga + pilates classes...for everyone treatments, organic café + lifestyle shop at triyoga primrose hill, chelsea, soho + covent garden 020 7483 3344 www.triyoga.co.uk

- Dental Implants - Lumineers - Clear braces - Laser teeth whitening

- Wrinkle relaxant therapy - Dermal fillers - Laser Skin rejuvenation - Laser Skin resurfacing - Laser Hair removal - Zerona laser fat loss treatment

Call to book your free consultation. State of the art equipment and latest technology's available. Free Parking 943 Finchley Road, London, NW11 7PE T: 0208 2018080info@lotusclinic.co.ukwww.lotusclinic.co.uk

LOT US CLINIC.2.indd 1 CITY ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 4

22/10/2012 17:31

* Valid for all mat classes 1 offer per person – new visitors only

24/10/2012 11:21

Absolutely

CREDIT: NAILS INC

BEAUTY

the

Beauty Edit The fine art of staying beautiful...

Perricone ‘No Concealer’ Concealer SPF35 A multi-tasking, anti-aging, skin-protecting, brightening PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHAEL FRANKE

eye concealer: our new handbag must-have. £37, johnlewis.com

Pick

InThisTreatment: Spa and Massage modest spa on Haverstock Hill is the perfect retreat for worn out North Londoners

needing a little ‘r and r’. It sticks to what it does best - massage - offering universal favourites such as Thai massage, reflexology, Swedish massage and their signature four-handed massage (to name but a few). Absolutely jumped at the opportunity to try out one of their exclusive new treatments, an anti-cellulite body rub-down which focuses on primary female ‘problem areas’ like the thighs, stomach and bum. Stimulating skin cells and increasing circulation with a thermal cream proven to reduce the appearance of the dreaded orange peel, this is an affordable body blitz that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and revived. If you’ve been overindulging in cellulite-inducing activities (such as drinking fizzy drinks or caffeine) this pickme-up will combat stubborn areas with gusto. RvdB 173 Haverstock Hill, NW3 & 59 Camden High Street, NW1, spaandmassage.co.uk

New Opening: Diptyque The Parisian brand grabs a desirable new space

in Leadenhall Market. The fourth London boutique is designed by Christopher Jenner, who worked on the Liberty concession and the Bleecker Street store in New York; he combines French luxury with English patterning and more than a hint of Victoriana thanks to a pressed ceiling, oversized library cabinets, Gothic revival wallpapers, English brass, stained-glass fretwork and an ornate antique mirror. 62 Leadenhall Market, EC3V diptyqueparis.co.uk

Editor’s

NEW: Nails Inc Nails Inc have taken inspiration from the AW12 catwalks, creating a ,

brand new palette that reflects this season’s colour trends. This collection box includes a dazzling navy glitter, silky pearl, deep forest green, rich plum, classic taupe and a saucy tomato red. 15 Cabot Square, Canary Wharf, E14, nailsinc.com 41 41

OCT_BEAUTY EDIT.indd 41

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Call 020 7391 9980 or go online www.strength-for-health.co.uk to book your free personal training session. No joining fee.

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Absolutely

MEDITATE ON THIS Triyoga Primrose Hill has some fantastic workshops coming up. John Stirk (one of the UK’s

BEAUTY

leading yoga teachers) will be conducting ‘Being Your Self’ while Katherine Graves will lead a pregnancy workshop – Hypnobirthing – that uses hypnosis to unravel the tension and pain associated with the birth experience. Also, look out for forthcoming workshops with Tias Little, who specialises in yoga and anatomy, blending both Western and Eastern perspectives. His somatic studies have included in-depth training in massage and cranial-sacral therapy. 6 Erskine Road, NW3, triyoga.co.uk

PIC: TIA LITTLE

Feeling good The latest health and fitness trends

BE FIRM

If you put in the hours priming your body for show over the summer, don’t let go of the reins now. Replace your everyday moisturiser with the handy multi-function formula USculpt B.L.T Bum, Legs & Tums (£39.50) to target those stubborn areas. Aromatherapy Associates Roland Mouret Final Finish Body Serum (£45) is a lifting, firming, cooling gel, while Elemental Herbology SOS Circulation Serum (£27) is an invigorating body tonic.

TREND The hi-top trend shows no sign of flagging

this autumn, as Brick Lane-based trainer brand Veja collaborates with top fashion stylist Domino Lattès to produce an exclusive take on their iconic SPMA collection. The trainers come in two gorgeous multi-coloured versions – so snap a pair up and add a dash of brightness to your gym attire. Available at Diverse, 294 Upper Street, London, N1, veja.fr

NEWSFLASH

KEEPY UPPY

This new sports bra from Anita Active is light but offers support for running and other high-impact activity. Air permeable? Check. Shape-retaining cups? Check. Quickdrying (good for triathlon... apparently)? Check. Looks good? Double-check. We’re fans of the spicy orange shade. £53. 020 8446 7478; anita.com

NEW This new space in London Fields delights in the joy of... actual space. There’s no (let’s face it, rather off-

putting) nose-to-bum poses here, just an abundance of glorious room to move. In the vein of the plentiful yoga studios of New York City, this one is charmingly situated right beside the railway tracks in the evergrowing creative hub that is Netil House (just in case the meditative sound of trains clacking by appeals). Just beware of revellers drinking at the next-door bar terrace distracting your pranayama. Studio 206, Netil House, 1 Westgate Street, E8; stretchlondon.org 43

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Absolutely

BEAUTY

Let it Glow

Helen Baron uncovers the secret to radiant skin and glossy hair

Beauty Spot What? Mani, pedi and semi-permanent hair colour Where? No.74, 74 Compton Street, EC1 The lowdown A little townhouse decked out in luxe, boutique furnishings and cool flowerprint wallpaper that sits well alongside the original wooden floorboards. Forget those hideous nail salons where you’re sat in an oversized and ugly faux-leather chair, the beneficiary of an awkwardly mechanic shiatsu massage, inhaling nail polish fumes and getting a headache from the cheap lighting: No.74 is more like a spa hotel. You’re ushered into a plush room and stretched out on a heated bed while Renata focuses her sole attention on you, bathing your tootsies in a warm bowl of water. You’re invited to sleep while she does your nails, so this is just as much about relaxation as getting the job done - and the room is invitingly warm and cosy. No more watching paint dry. Just downstairs is the colouring room where Sevata, the expert colourist, mixes up cool tints and highlights. I am in for a semi-permanent colour and she knows just the shade that’s going to lift my current style; autumn is all about going darker, moodier and glossier, so she puts a treatment on my hair to bring out the colour. She does a sterling job and I am pleased as punch with the result. Plus points This salon is beautiful. It’s like you’re in someone’s home or a luxe b’n’b. It makes taking the time out to come here a pleasure rather than a pain. no-74.co.uk, 020 7490 8555

NO.74

Biothecare Estetika What? Virtual Mesotherapy Where? 222 Essex Road, N1 The lowdown I turned up to this beauty appointment hoping to banish some unsightly cellulite. In actual fact, as I talked through the many treatments available at the new clinic (the company boasts over 170 branches worldwide but has only just opened its first in London) with a consultant, I ended up opting for a facial treatment instead. With most of the treatments available best conducted as a course – and there are some very attractive deals where these are concerned - my consultant recommended something that would yield instant results. It turns out that where ‘instant’ is important, mesotherapy is the magic word - and as I wasn’t going on holiday anytime soon (and will thus be covered up for the foreseeable future) it seemed wise to go for an improvement that people would actually see. A potent cocktail of vitamins is massaged into the skin with a machine that applies positive and negative charges, creating a channel between skin cells to aid the penetration of the active ingredients. A happy alternative to botox for anyone who, like me, is more in favour of growing old au naturel, this is a needle-free way to plump out fine lines and wrinkles, giving the complexion a healthy, youthful glow. The same process (but with different ampoules) is used for cellulite – the deep absorption of the anti-cellulite product stimulates lipolysis and the transportation of fat for removal. Plus points No word of a lie, this seems quite the miracle-worker – and better than any facial. No wonder my consultant advised I try it as a first-timer booked in for one treatment. I noticed the difference immediately - the furrow in my forehead was less pronounced, my smile lines less marked. This lasts an impressive eight weeks; what’s more, each treatment costs just £45. biothecareestetika.com/islington, 020 7704 1640

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23/10/2012 19:45

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22/10/2012 16:33

Euphorium Bakery

Bread winners

This bakery opened on Upper Street in 1999 and quickly won renown for making as much as possible from scratch every day (they still do). In fact, so fresh is the produce that no one ever knows in advance what tomorrow’s bread of the day will be. An inspired selection of pastries can be found among the handmade loaves, which are made using speciallyprepared dough: flour, water, yeast, a pinch of salt and nothing nasty. There are five North London branches in total, each with wi-fi, so you can work while you scoff, too. euphoriumbakery.com

Pick up your daily bread from the best local artisan bakeries

Gail’s

The eighth branch of legendary bread-makers Gail’s is in Crouch End, though other North London branches are stationed in Hampstead and St John’s Wood, with an East London shop on Exmouth Market (right by Sadler’s Wells). This bread ‘empire’ is proud of its product and with good reason: it takes a puritanical approach that embraces only natural ingredients (no preservatives) while seeking inspiration from enticing baked goods around the world. Add to this its emphasis on playing a useful role in the local community – through getting to know its customers and hosting special events – and you have a recipe for surefire success. gailsbread.co.uk

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23/10/2012 19:02

Absolutely

FOOD

E5 Bakehouse

The owners of E5 Bakehouse, which is lodged beneath a railway arch in Hackney, are passionate about slow-fermented sourdough and the lost traditions of our baking ancestors. Using organic, locally-milled grains, bread is baked on-site at sunrise (amazing) and goods delivered by bicycle. The company’s aim is to create a new kind of community space: the bakery itself employs a small, committed group of bakers, chefs and baristas, but not only that – it promotes local artists and entrepreneurs. A nice extra touch is that the head bakers rather kindly share their knowledge and expertise in a handy weekly bread course. Wholesome stuff. Arch 395, Mentmore Terrace, E8; e5bakehouse.com

Konditor & Cook

The brainchild of German-born ‘Konditormeister’ Gerhard Jenne, this bakery has become well-known for breaking cake-decorating boundaries with its trademark Konditor & Cook ‘Magic Cakes’. Gerhard originally trained as a pastry chef in Munich, but since bringing his skills to London he’s seen his business grow to encompass six London sites (though each location has its own atmosphere and architectural quirks). The company are committed to quality ingredients, insisting on the use of organic eggs and natural butter – and they even bake wheat-free loaves. 46 Grays Inn Road, WC1; konditorandcook.com

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23/10/2012 19:02

LONDON’S FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SHOW Sadler’s Wells presents The Birmingham Repertory Theatre production of

The live stage show

DOLLAR GRILLS AND MARTINIS An American themed restaurant and cocktail bar renowned for serving the best burgers and steaks in London. We’re obsessed with the quality of our burgers, with The Forest Grande, White Truffled Mushrooms and Dorstone Goats Cheese being just some examples. We believe that our USDA beef from Nebraska gives you more flavour and texture and beats any steak anywhere.

based on Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman Music and lyrics by Howard Blake

‘As traditional as mince pies and Santa Claus’ Time Out

g Featurin

‘Walking in the Air’

5 KET ONLY £9 FAMILY TICinc ild ch 1 st lea at lude 4 tickets, must

28 Nov 6 Jan

2 Exmouth Market, Farringdon, EC1R 4PX www.dollargrills.com / 020 7278 0077

S A D L ER’S WEL L S I N T H E WEST EN D

SUMPTUOUS CUISINE AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

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30/07/2012 17:13

Our Christmas offer is £12.35 for a 3-course meal from the 1st-24th December We are open from 12-6pm on Christmas Day serving our 5-course set lunch for £27.95 per person We have a large party section and can accommodate up to 150 people We have our Live Opera on Thursday and Saturday evenings as usual over the Christmas period at no extra cost Visit littlebay.co.uk to view our menu, you won’t be disappointed 171 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3AL, 020 7278 1234 farringdon@littlebay.co.uk

CITY ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 5

LITTLE BAY RESTAURANTS

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat – 12:00-Midnight Sun – 12:00-23:00

24/10/2012 13:10

Hot Spots Five restaurants and bars for the little black book

Bars & restaurants Feature2.indd 49

24/10/2012 12:03

Ladybird It’s nearing that time of the year when panic starts to set in because you’ve realised either all your winter clothes are starting to look “so last year”, or the black tie event you’ve put to the back of your mind is round the corner. Sound familiar? Panic not, because luckily, you live in North London and the Pamela Shiffer boutique is in Primrose Hill. Breathe with a sigh of relief, because all your fashion nightmares have all been solved. 75 Regent’s Park Road, London NW1 8UY, Telephone: 020 7483 4483 Fax: 020 7586 5534; www.pamelashiffer.com

Little Bay Festive fun has arrived at Farringdon’s Little Bay, where all kinds of mouthwatering musical and culinary delights are set to spice up your Christmas. Not only do the restaurant’s famous live opera evenings continue every Thursday and Saturday throughout the holidays (at no extra cost), but from December 1st-24th you can enjoy a three-course meal for just £12.35! The restaurant is also open 12-6pm on Christmas Day, serving a five-course lunch for £27.95 - and if you’ve a party to plan, there’s a private section that can accommodate up to 150 revellers. 171 Farringdon Road, EC1R 3AL; www.littlebay.co.uk

Bars & restaurants Feature2.indd 50

Wax Jambu Synonymous with cutting edge cocktails and alternative music, Wax Jambu have a passion for great drinks, impeccable service and an ear for anything fresh and inspiring. Sample the seasonal cocktail menu, have a bespoke drink made, or be enticed by one of the many competitionwinning cocktails. Don’t forget the Rum Cove upstairs, host to over 100 rums! 144-145 Upper Street, N1 1QY, 020 7226 7660, Facebook: waxjambu, Twitter: @ waxjambulondon, www.waxjambu.co.uk

Ziloufs Upper Street awash with chichi restaurants and bars, Ziloufs holds its own. Offering a limited but great quality menu featuring Asian / European fusion cuisine, whilst also offering a delectable cocktail menu. Decor is chic with a hint of contemporary quirkiness, offset with gold and sleek low hanging lampshades contrasting haphazard antique lamps & vintage chandeliers. Two seating areas make the transition from bar to lounge then restaurant. 270 Upper St London N1 2UQ; 020 7226 1118

24/10/2012 12:03

Now serving authentic Mexican BRUNCH on SUNDAYS BOHOMexica MEXICA.indd 2 Boho Sept12.indd 1

22/10/2012 18:39 14:26 23/08/2012

Listed in Michelin Guide 2012

A venture of three hospitality professionals from The Ritz-London,

Benares - Mayfair and the Oberoi - New Delhi offering a gastronomical journey of Indian food complimented by exceptional service.

We are now taking Masterclass once a week to train on the art of Indian cooking. For further queries, please contact us via email or phone.

ROOTS N1.indd 2

We are now taking Masterclass once a week to train on the art of Indian cooking. For further queries, please contact us via email or phone.

Roots at N1

Listed in Michelin Guide 2012

Roots at N1

www.rootsatnl.com t: 020 7697 4488 115 Hemingford Rd, Barnsbury N1 1BZ

23/10/2012 15:00

Absolutely

FOOD MICHAEL NADRA PRIMROSE HILL Renowned chef Michael Nadra has opened his

second restaurant in Primrose Hill. The original is in Chiswick and a north London addition is surely a sign of its growing popularity. The cuisine is Asian-cum-European with a modern twist, and the new locale is spacious enough to hold its own Martini bar. Fine dining without the pretension: we applaud you, Mr Nadra. 42 Gloucester Avenue, NW1, restaurant-michaelnadra.co.uk

Bite Sized Romy van den Broeke finds out all the food news – one bite at a time

AVEQIA Introducing a new style of eating – this

interactive Swedish restaurant brings socialising, cooking and eating together for a truly unique experience. Founders David and Johan have brought their budding venture over to the UK and set up shop in Farringdon where their active cooking, accompanied by litres of wine, will no doubt draw in many customers. We’ve booked already... 2 St Bride Street, EC4; avequia.co.uk

ASPARAGASM This new vegan dining club takes place at NAAMYAA

When we heard that our favourite Thai restaurant, Busaba Eathai, had opened a new Thai cafe this autumn, we were absolutely over the moon. The new dining location is in Islington and specialises in Bangkok street-food (pad Thai, not cockroaches), Siam heritage classics and – in true Asian style – the odd Western dish. We’re more than a little excited. The Angel Building, 407 St John Street, EC1; naamyaa.com

the Back in 5 Minutes restaurant on the last Thursday of every month. Chef Jason Loveridge wants the Asparagasm experience to highlight the glories of fresh British produce, alongside cocktails, vegan wines and a British vegetarian cheese board. Diners are expected to share a large table with others for a social supper experience. We’re intrigued... White Rabbit Studios, Dereham Place, EC2; asparagasm.com

TRISHNA POP-UP Karam Sethi, Head Chef of newly-Michelin-starred Trishna, will be joined in his kitchen by Ravinder Bhogal

on the 19th and 20th November to create a feast of ‘forgotten British foods’ – cooked the Indian way. Ravinder, author of Cook in Boots, and award-winning food writer, has worked closely with Karam to design a five-course menu that makes the best of Britain’s traditional foods, combining them with classic Indian techniques and flavours. Dishes will include: Bath chaps with turnip saag; scrag end of lamb Haleem, and Morecombe Bay potted shrimps with pickling spice. The menu will be priced at £47.50. 15-17 Blandford Street, W1; trishnalondon.com 53

NOV_FOODIE NEWS.indd 53

23/10/2012 19:05

CITY ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 8

24/10/2012 13:11

Absolutely

BARS Bars/Pubs THE CASTLE 34 - 35 Cowcross Street, EC1M 6DB 020 7553 7621

69 COLEBROOKE ROW 69 Colebrooke Row Islington N1 8AA 07540 528 593 THE NORTHGATE 113 Southgate Road N1 3JS 020 7359 7392

Reserved The tippler’s guide to this month’s buzzing bars

Hawksmoor

157 Commercial Street, E1 6BJ, 020 7426 4856; hawksmoor.com

Mantra The drink is as important as the food. What’s the deal? The focus is on wines that pair well with the dictionary-thick steaks (from Longhorn cattle, traditionally reared in North Yorkshire, dry-aged for at least 35 days and cooked on a charcoal grill). Different wines are matched with different cuts, or chosen on the length of the time the meat has cooked for (cuisson). When should you go? Monday Wine Club means you can bring your own bottle for a small corkage fee. Why should you go? For the lush decor, and to learn more about steak-and-wine-matching. If you’re bringing your own bottle to Monday Wine Club, check the website for some basic guidelines first.

Three bars we can’t wait to try...

THE HIGHBURY BARN 26 Highbury Park Highbury N5 2AB 020 7226 2383

KESTON LODGE 131 Upper Street Islington N1 1QP 020 7354 9535

XOXO 74 Upper Street London N1 0NY 020 7226 6799

FIFTY FIVE BAR & LOUNGE 31 Jamestown Road Camden Town, NW1 7DB, 020 7424 9054 PROUD CAMDEN The Horse Hospital Camden, NW1 8AH 0207 482 3867 THE LORD’S TAVERN Lord’s Cricket Ground, St Johns Wood, NW8 8NQ 020 7266 5980

Old Bengal Bar

Ruby’s

Shoreditch Grind Bar

The Vibe Enjoy any cocktail you can name in the exposedbrickwork, Grade II listed environs of what used to be the East India Company warehouse. Inspired by its history (opium was stored here), the decor evokes the low-lit, late-night seduction of an opium den from a century yonder.

The Vibe Set in the basement of Ruby House, underneath the cinema sign at 76 Stoke Newington Road, this new bar makes its home in what was the kitchen of Ruby House 3, a former Chinese takeaway. Blackberry Mojitos served in 1940s Manchester milk bottles and tin cups. Nice!

The Vibe Desperately seeking cocktails as well as a coffee (how very New York of you)? Shoreditch Grind now serves cocktails by night. It’s conveniently located right next to Old Street tube, in case you’re too hammered to navigate your way home.

16 New Street London, EC2, oldbengalbar.co.uk

76 Stoke Newington Road, N16, castlegibson.com

Upstairs, 213 Old Street, EC1V, shoreditchgrind.com

THE WELLS 30 Well Walk Hampstead, London 020 7794 3785

THE YARD Queens Yard, Hackney Wick E9 5EN

OFF BROADWAY 63-65 Broadway Market, E8 4PH 020 7241 2786

NOV_FEATURED BAR_RESTAURANT.indd 55

23/10/2012 19:59

Absolutely

FOOD Restaurants YUM YUM THAI RESTAURANT 3183-187 Stoke Newington High Street N16 0LH 020 7254 6751 OISHII 67 Stoke Newington Church Street N16 0AR 020 7254 3488

Top Tables A bite-sized guide to this month’s foodie destinations

Dishoom

7 Boundary Street, E2, 020 7420 9320; dishoom.com Mantra Bringing Bombay flavours to East London. What’s the deal? A recently arrived cafe in the heart of Shoreditch. The brand has been feeding Londoners in Covent Garden for some time now, and more recently popped up on the South Bank in the form of the Chowpatty Beach Cafe. When should you go? An excellent choice if you fancy pre-dinner cocktails too; don’t forget to try a morning or afternoon Chai tea too. Why should you go? Serving up Indian-influenced dishes, this is multiculturalism at its best, in the vein of the many Irani cafes that once scattered the streets of Bombay. Spice up your life.

Three restaurants we can’t wait to try...

DOLLAR GRILLS & MARTINIS 2 Exmouth Market Farringdon EC1R 4PX 020 7278 0077 FORMANS Stour Road, Fish Island, Hackney Wick E3 2NT 020 8525 2365 BUNDU KHAN 43 Commercial Street Aldgate East E1 6BD 020 7375 2595 DISHOOM 77 Boundary Street, Shoreditch E2 7JE 020 7420 9324

HARRY MORGANS 29-31 St John’s Wood High Street St Johns Wood, NW8 7NH 020 7722 1869 MEAT PEOPLEs 4-6 Essex Road Islington N1 8LN 020 7359 5361

MEM & LAZ Therberton Street Islington N1 8LN 020 7553 7621

Trullo

300-302 St. Paul’s Road, N1; trullorestaurant.com

The Crunch A picturebox neighbourhood Italian serving rustic (Tuscan, to be precise) renditions rather than your typical pizza-pasta chain restaurant stuff. Fish and meat are cooked over burning coals and pasta is handmade and rolled minutes before service.

The Landmark

The Winter Garden, 222 Marylebone Road, NW1; landmarklondon.co.uk

The Crunch For three weeks only (20th November - 8th December), the Chef Patron of the newly Michelin-starred Alimentum in Cambridge, Mark Poynton, will be whipping up a gourmet storm at the five-star Landmark London’s Winter Garden restaurant.

The Gate

The Gate, 370 St John St, EC1; thegaterestaurants.com/ Islington

The Crunch The original Gate was a success in Hammersmith and now the acclaimed veggie restaurant has set up home in Islington. We can’t wait to try the all day mezze bar menu and the weekend brunch menu. Finally another option for veggies in the area!

SU SAZZAGONI 136 Lauriston Road Victoria Park E9 7LH 020 8985 8448 THE ROTISSERIE 87 Allitsen Road St John’s Wood NW8 7AS 020 7722 7444 LA COLLINA 17 Princess Road Primrose Hill NW1 8JR 020 7483 0192

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23/10/2012 20:00

CUTTING EDGE COCKTAILS & ALTERNATIVE BEATS Try our seasonal cocktail menu, have a bespoke drink made or be enticed by one of our many competition winning cocktails. Book an area online now

WWW.WAXJAMBU.CO.UK

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the Rum Cove upstairs, host to over 100 rums!

WAX JAMBU

144-145 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 1QY 0207 2267660

FULL PAGE.indd 1

22/10/2012 11:54

Absolutely

FOOD

French Fancy Allen Hutchinson heads to Marylebone High Street for a Michelinstarred experience

Caravan of Love

Helen Baron heads down to the renovated Granary Building to see if the food can match the impressive decor...

he renovation of the Grade IIlisted Granary Building beside Regent’s Canal has provided a new and comely address not just for Central Saint Martin’s College; it is now also home to London’s second Caravan restaurant. The walk from King’s Cross station is impressive, the imposing Victorian grain warehouse looming above the fountains of the airy new Granary Square like something from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Inside the restaurant, much is made of natural light, with (very) high ceilings, towering windows and silver ventilation units calling to mind the hip design pedigree of Caravan’s academic neighbour. Long metal tables stretch across the centre of the room, echoing the work canteens of yesteryear, and shortly after entering I’m reminded of the old Fairy Liquid advert, sparkling clean dishes reaching further and further into the distance. Even the chairs are upholstered in an office-y shade of grey, like those in a factory or school staff room, except here the effect is relaxing rather than dull. When we speak to the owner, he tells us the chairs were sourced from a warehouse in Essex, and that the sofa-style seating lining the outer walls is upholstered in material from salvaged Germany military uniforms. Savvy, inspired and stylish: very much a reflection of the wider Caravan brand. The exposed kitchen continues the contemporary aesthetic, and gives the

restaurant the buzz of a Wes Anderson film scene. Chefs busy themselves behind a wire grille, shadowed by tall metal shelving units that display bottles of fine wine and cans of specially sourced coffee beans (Caravan doubles as a premium roastery). Fortunately, the amazing impression made by the interior is matched by the food. We chose a juicy nectarine and goat’s curd salad and creamy burrata on black lentils. We opted to test some more classic mains - a margarita pizza, cauliflower cheese topped with breadcrumbs and a plate of perfectly crisped French fries. All was exceptional. We finished off with a divine apricot clafoutis. It takes a little extra time to make but is worth it. The stewed fruit was tart and tangy against the almond-y bread around it. Add the apricot ice-cream and you have something altogether irresistible. It was massive, yes, but it demanded to be finished: every last, drawn-out, creamy mouthful. The clincher in this already sweet deal is the cost: Caravan offers excellent value for money, especially when you consider the sophisticated decor and lively atmosphere (no doubt augmented by an influx of arty types from next door). We really cannot wait to go back - if only because I am yet to work out how to make apricot clafoutis so damn good.

op-up street food may be all the rage but if you’re tired of finger-licking chicken, deconstructed gourmet burgers and infuriatingly ‘hipper-than-thou’ reservation policies, take a trip to leafy Marylebone village and indulge yourself in some classic French cuisine at the Orrery. Enormous arched windows and skylights make up for smaller floor space, flooding the room with light; the fabulous roof terrace, a secret al fresco dining opportunity that’s not overexposed (a rarity in London). High-end French cuisine can often be delivered with an irritating aloofness, however the staff at the Orrery manage a pleasing balance between formality and knowledgeable approachability. Whether it was seeking advice from the sommelier on the ideal accompaniment for my delicious main of Kentish lamb, or my dining guest’s lengthy discussion with the waiter about the cheese selection, the staff seemed only too happy to help. The entire meal was delivered with the confidence and subtlety of a seasoned restaurant, one that knows its (French) onions. The Orrery must be doing something right to have been running successfully for so long. Its continued success is clearly based on its ability to stay current by constantly reinventing itself within the framework of high standards it sets. Perhaps the biggest compliment I could pay it is that in my dining partner, they had one (normally difficult) foodie French girl scheduling a return visit. 55-57 Marylebone High St, W1, 020 7616 8000; orrery-restaurant.co.uk

Granary Building, 1 Granary Square, N1, 020 7101 766; caravankingscross.co.uk

NOV_FOOD_REVIEWS.indd 58

24/10/2012 12:11

The Daily Telegraph

“

A legal force of nature

Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law and one of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator in England and Wales. Leading the UK’s largest dedicated family law firm, she has more than 25 years’ experience handling divorce cases and family law proceedings. of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator through · One the newly-formed Institute of Family Law Arbitrators (IFLA). first Chief Assessor and Chief Examiner of the Law Society’s · The Family Law Panel. Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers: · Aa global association of lawyers recognised for expertise in their

Located in WC1, Stowe Family Law specialises in family law issues; from divorce to cohabitees’ rights, with dedicated international and children’s teams. The firm’s specialist in-house forensic accountancy department tracks down hidden assets and can provide immediate financial advice.

respective countries.

If you need family law advice, early support can be essential. Stowe Family Law can help. Contact 020 7421 3300 8 Fulwood Place, Gray’s Inn, London WC1V 6HG

Contact 01423 532 600 The Old Court House, Raglan Street, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 1LT

chiefexecutive@stowefamilylaw.co.uk

stowe family law may 12.indd 1

www.stowefamilylaw.co.uk

Contact 0161 926 1410 The Camellia Building, 38 Oxford Road, Hale, Altrincham WA14 2EB

www.marilynstowe.co.uk

29/04/2012 20:54

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TRAVEL The Hotel

The Montpellier Chapter is Regency Cheltenham’s funkiest new hotel. Set in the fashionable Montpellier quarter, famed for its chic independent boutiques and restaurants, the Chapter’s classical exterior gives little hint of the revolutionary design within. Wave farewell to outdated reception desks: paperless check-in is conducted on a 1.2 ton sphere of solid English oak. Reception rooms, including a library and mirror backed bar, are decorated in muted tones with low slung, streamlined furniture by British designer Matthew Bilton and specially commissioned contemporary art works. Behind the Grade II listed villa, an ultramodern crescent-shaped wing overlooks a secluded glass veiled inner courtyard inspired by the original conservatory. Illuminated by a striking new glass chandelier, the conservatory is the perfect place to enjoy a post shopping cocktail.

UK TRAVEL

Montpellier Chapter Hotel, Cheltenham The Bedroom

Sixty bedrooms – plus a swish penthouse – are divided into four categories. Sixteen rooms in the new wing feature oak flooring, walls of Bath stone and bathrooms incorporated into the bedrooms. In the original Villa, restrained colour schemes are complemented by muscular, blond furniture and vibrant modern art. Some rooms have their own private balconies with views over the rooftops. All come with lovely touches including a pre-loaded iPod, Wi-Fi, TV with Sky and complimentary mini bar plus a Nespresso coffee machine, kettle and treats. You’re guaranteed to sleep like a baby on downy beds dressed with crisp white Egyptian cotton.

The Spa

The hotel spa transports Cheltenham’s natural health traditions into the 21st century. Beautifully designed, it comprises four, timber clad cocoon-like circular treatment rooms, a compact steam room and a chillout area. REN products, made in Devon from natural ingredients, feature in the simple but effective treatment menu. If you’re pressed for time, try the Express Signature Facial. Combining gentle massage with REN’s bespoke unguents, it guarantees a soothing quick fix for tired skin. For workout fans, there’s a small fitness room and access to the pool at nearby Cheltenham Ladies College.

The Restaurants

Consultant Chef Simon Hopkinson of Bibendum has collaborated with Head Chef Tom Rains to create a modern menu chiming with the hotel’s Rule Britannia philosophy. Changing with the seasons, the menu features British favourites and classic dishes created around the best ingredients to be enjoyed beneath a handsome barrel vaulted ceiling. The bustling open kitchen with a beech clay oven centre stage creates a theatrical yet informal atmosphere whilst friendly add to the buzz. An interactive wine list is an innovative way to select the plonk. You can also dine al fresco on the terrace or in the courtyard but don’t miss breakfast: cooked to order, the Eggs Benedict are a triumph.

The Bathroom

Monochrome bathrooms boast bath and spacious monsoon showers, thick towels, fluff y robes and generous supplies of luscious REN products. If modesty prevails, a sheer curtain separates the open bathing area in the feature rooms from the main bedroom. There is a separate shower.

Price Tag

Rates start from £140 including breakfast for two. 01242 527 788; themontpellierchapterhotel.com

Get There

Trains from Paddington departing about every 30 minutes – some are direct. By car: two and a half hours from London via the A40/M40 (via Oxford) or the M4 (Swindon exit) or a short distance from the M5 (junctions 11 and 11a). 61

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Change a child’s life forever, foster with Islington Islington urgently needs foster carers to look after local children of all ages. You don’t need qualifications but you do need to be good with children and be able to keep them healthy and safe. In return you will receive 24 hour support and generous allowances. To find out more why not come along to an information session. Tuesday 13 November 6pm - 8pm Wednesday 28 November 10am -12noon Islington Town Hall, Upper Street N1 2UD

0800 073 0428 fostering@islington.gov.uk www.islington.gov.uk

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Absolutely

TRAVEL

A room with a view Helen Baron relaxes in the heart of Renaissance Italy...

r two rooms with two views, to be precise. The historic home of the Medici family and even short-lived Italian capital (for a year in 1865), Firenze (as the Italians call it) is perhaps the biggest little city in the world, its relatively small size and resident population (of around 350,000) belying its status as a crucible in which much of modern economics, statecraft and culture were first formed. In fact, the sheer number of artistic and architectural masterpieces scattered throughout the city have even given rise to a condition – known as Stendhal syndrome – that sees victims become dizzy and faint on exposure to art of staggering beauty. Named for the writer Stendhal, who told of swooning away himself during a visit to Florence in 1817, it’s been a ‘problem’ ever since, with tourists and visitors apparently dropping like flies.

The Lungarno Hotel Collection

We spent our first few days at the Lungarno Suites, a literal stone’s throw from Florence’s last surviving medieval bridge, the Ponte Vecchio, overlooking the lazy southern sweep of the River Arno with views of San Miniato and the Boboli Gardens. The hotel collection is owned by the Ferragamo family. Salvatore Ferragamo opened his first Florentine shop in 1938 and welcomed a host of customers, including Hollywood stars, aristocrats and international diplomats. Over the years, flair for a warm welcome combined with the Ferragamo nous for style and aesthetics prompted the hotel collection: a hand-picked selection of individually-styled establishments that are now presided over by Salvatore’s son, Leonardo. Each of the collection’s Florentine outposts has its own devoted fanbase: the Lungarno Suites, where we stayed, are great for longer stays or families, laid out as they are like handsome apartments, complete with kitchenettes and sofa-beds for the kids. A hearty breakfast can be had a few steps round the corner at the group’s Gallery Art

VILLA SAN MICHELE

Hotel; this hotel is favoured by couples, fashionistas and art-lovers, and regularly holds exhibitions of contemporary art. Just across the cobblestone street stands the Continentale Hotel, it’s more minimalist, stripped back style attracting a younger clientele; we made a beeline for its rooftop terrace bar. Small but intimate, the bar was packed and the view of the medieval Consorti Tower spectacular. Five minutes away on the other side of the river sits the Hotel Lungarno, popular with older couples and boasting perhaps the finest art collection of any of the hotels. The hotel’s Picteau Lounge is so-named because it houses original artworks by both Picasso and Cocteau; at night it’s an impressive sight - the restaurant lights twinkle over the river and the terrace is one of the few outdoor seating areas to sit right alongside the Arno - suffice it to say that booking ahead is recommended. Situated at the very heart of the storybook city centre, moments’ walk from the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace and a thousand other awe-inspiring bits of history, is the Ferragamo Museum - as a guest of the Lungarno Collection you’ll also get free entry. The city provides much for free; not least that famous 63

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Absolutely

TRAVEL

LUNGARNO SUITES

Florentine panorama, a good deal of which was visible from our window. When you do have to pay to explore the city’s treasures - from the famous cathedral in its candy palette of pink and green to the numerous world-leading galleries (containing, among other works, Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus) - there’s little chance of leaving under-awed. That said, the sheer volume of amazing architecture, historic churches, Renaissance buildings and incredible statuary means even a brief wander around the centre will lend a profound sense of the city’s grandeur and importance. That modern luxury brands (Florence is home to Gucci as well as Ferragamo and boasts a great many Italian boutiques) sit so comfortably and unobtrusively alongside Romanesque, Renaissance and neoclassical relics only makes the city more wondrous - and even more fun to visit.

Villa San Michele

The city is only part of the story, and for the second half of our trip we headed to the Villa San Michele in Fiesole, a short (20 minute) drive from the centre of town. The grounds of the hotel recall the cinematic depictions of Tuscan rustic luxury as popularised by films like Stealing Beauty and The Talented Mr Ripley, all chalky yellow stone, wildflowers and verdant cypress trees. A stay here ensures the best of both worlds - a stimulating city break with the relaxing benefits of the Tuscan

VILLA SAN MICHELE

countryside - and the villa really is an oasis of tranquility, the only noises being the steady drone of crickets, the rustling of foliage in the warm breeze up the hillside or the clinking of silverware as tuxedo-clad waiters set tables. The ace up the hotel’s sleeve is the view. Nestled high on a hill overlooking Florence, the majority of the rooms and certainly the pool are great vantage points. We were treated to a three course meal at the main Loggia Restaurant - the sweeping vista from the pretty terrace is worth the visit alone, but a sunset meal and a nightcap under the stars made for a romantic evening not soon to be forgotten.

A convenient shuttle bus runs hourly between the hotel and Piazza della Repubblica at the heart of Florence, making the villa a perfect option for those who have visited the city before and for whom a stay in greener surroundings is appealing. Whatever your past experience though, Florence is a place you have to visit more than once, if only to take in all the glories it has to offer. It really is a great way to put the dolce back into vita. lungarnocollection.com villasanmichele.com

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INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME

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Absolutely

INTERIORS INNERMOST CLINKER COFFEE TABLE £1,100, OCCA-HOME.CO.UK

ASYMMETRICAL MIRROR

The extravagant furniture of designer Christopher Guy never fails to make an impact. This fabulous mirror is one of a kind. £2,900, christopherguy.com

CRUSHED BOWL BY MUUTO £35, SKANDIUM.COM

Panton Classic Chair by Vitra £884, skandium.com

Back to the future

Neutral colour schemes and minimalist, architectural shapes are all you need to embrace this cool, über modern look

MOON PENDANT LAMP BY VERPAN £545, SKANDIUM.COM

AALTO BOWL £280, SKANDIUM.COM

PHILIPPI COCOON FRUIT BOWL £121.50, OCCA-HOME.CO.UK

LA STANZA DELLO SCIROCCO TRAY DESIGNED BY MARIO TRIMARCHI FROM £64, ALESSI.CO.UK

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Absolutely

INTERIORS SOFA, SO GOOD

Sofa Workshop keep turning out amazing handmade sofas and this fetching large pure linen model (the Caravaggio, with scatters in homespun linen) is my pick of the bunch. Time to put the feet up methinks... £31, 45, 0844 249 9161 , sofaworkshop.com

Interior Inspirations Gemma Billington rounds up the best trends, designers and local gems NEW ROMANTICS

These charmingly gothic prints by Uniche are made all the more unique by being printed on original paper, some of which dates back to the 1800s - so no two designs are ever the same. A quirky little gift or something to liven up your living room. £65 each, unicheinteriorfurnishings.co.uk

LET THERE BE LIGHT

IN THE HOT SEAT

I couldn’t resist spotting some Scandinavian talent at this year’s 100% Norway. This über cool ‘L/Lamp’ by Sylvia Holthen and Birgitte Due Madsen is not only reminiscent of a contemporary art installation, but the lamp is comprised of unglazed porcelain encapsulating the energy-saving bulb - meaning that the otherwise cold light is transformed into a much warmer glow. tentlondon.co.uk

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Fifteen restaurant, the Better Food Foundation has launched the BIG Chair Project - an exciting initiative to auction 20 chairs supplied by the Republic of Fritz Hansen, customised by some of London’s best artists and designers. jamieoliver.com/thebigchairproject

Boutique of the month OSCARS INTERIORS

This eclectic store was founded by Richard Morris and sprung from his passion for all things antique and well-crafted. Oscars Interiors stocks traditional oak furniture plus a healthy selection of Victorian curiosities including tiles, doctor’s couches and a spattering of ram skull wall-hangings. oscarsinteriors.com , Cheshire Street, E2 71

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Hotel

particulier Helen Baron delves into the mind of East London’s hippest hotelier

avid Carter is the creative visionary behind what is possibly our city’s most exciting hotel: 40 Winks. The Stepney-based ‘microhotel’ is a beautiful, boutique marvel that’s set the whole world talking - but it’s just the latest achievement in Carter’s 20 years at the forefront of interior design. We caught up with him to find out more... How did you get into design? The World of Interiors magazine ran a feature on a flat I owned in Islington, and I was invited to lunch by Min Hogg, the legendary editor-in-chief. She told me to give up my career in marketing consultancy to become an interior designer instead (and she was not someone you argued with!) Over the next couple of years I was featured on the front cover twice and on around 30 pages of the magazine in total. Any success I have

had over the past 20 years is entirely due to the encouragement and support I received from her; she was an amazing advocate for people she believed in. What kind of projects do you enjoy working on the most? I have always worked principally on highend residential projects, but have been doing more commercial projects recently - including a shop, bar and restaurant in Moscow, which has been great fun to do and which opens in a few weeks time. Most of the pleasure comes from working with the clients, and hopefully creating something beautiful and magical for them to enjoy. What’s been the biggest project you’ve taken on and why? I have been doing more general creative consultancy work over the last few years. One of the biggest projects has been the

launch of the Jacques Townhouse, London’s first pop-up hotel. As Creative Director, I was responsible not only for designing the interiors, but for developing much of the content. It was a huge amount of work, with only a few weeks to source all the furniture and thousands of props, and just two days on-site for all the set building and styling. Working to such a tight deadline, with a huge number of logistical issues to deal with and lots of clients to please, was challenging to say the least! To what can you attribute your ‘vision’? Carrots, and a playful sense of humour! Who are your top three suppliers at the moment? De Gournay for their amazing wallpapers, Lorfords Antiques in Tetbury and the furniture designer Mark Brazier Jones, whom I’ve been working with for over

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23/10/2012 19:10

Absolutely

INTERIORS

“German Vogue called it ‘the most beautiful small hotel in the world’, Grazia called it ‘the sexiest boutique hotel in London.’”

twenty years now. However, I am addicted to market shopping! I have just spent the weekend trawling the flea markets of Clignancourt in Paris with one of my clients. Always amazing... Are there other interior designers whose work you admire? I am a huge admirer of the French designer Andre Arbus, but I get lots of my inspiration from movies, such as the sets in Fellini’s Casanova, Bertolucci’s The Last Emperor or the new adaptation of Anna Karenina by Joe Wright. Was it a highlight to be shortlisted for the Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Award in 2001 and 2007? It is always nice to get a bit of recognition for what one does! However, I have just been described as ‘perhaps the world’s most extraordinary hotelier’ in Gulf Life, which I thought was rather wonderful. 73

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INTERIORS

Tell us about 40 Winks - why did you decide to open up your home? For many years the house has been one of London’s top fashion and celebrity photo shoot locations, and over that time many of the photographers, stylists and models who came here asked if I had ever considered having people to stay as well. In March 2009, I finally gave in, and decided to open the house as the world’s first ‘micro boutique hotel’... a space principally aimed at people who work in fashion and the arts, offering something more experiential and intimate than a standard hotel, a magical place where the boundary between reality and dreams becomes blurred. I really had no idea that so many people would love the idea of what we are doing here, or that it would be

as popular as it has become. We get amazing press pretty much every week around the world: German Vogue called it “the most beautiful small hotel in the world”, Grazia called it “the sexiest boutique hotel in London.” We also just featured in the Casa Vogue list of the 50 essential places to visit in the world! What are some of the fashion shoots you’ve done in the house? In the last few weeks alone we’ve had Marie Claire, American Vogue and Hong Kong Tatler here, plus Kelly Brook with her new lingerie collection and a shoot with the finalists from Britain’s Next Top Model. What’s next on your agenda? Having opened and run what is probably the world’s smallest boutique hotel, I am now thinking about opening the world’s most expensive hotel... something quite unlike anything else you’ve ever been to. 109 Mile End Road, E1; 40winks.org

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23/10/2012 19:10

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10/08/2012 14:29

ABSOLUTELY Property November 2012

Lenthall Road, London Fields, E8 ÂŁ850p/w A beautifully presented four bedroom, two bathroom, double fronted house situated in the heart of London Fields in Hackney. Featuring a wide range of architectural touches and designs, this immaculately finished property is a real statement home with class and charisma. Featuring four double bedrooms, a glorious quiet courtyard to the rear, double glazed sash windows and a high spec contemporary finish throughout. This bright and spacious Victorian house is situated in close proximity to the sought-after amenities of London Fields and is moments away from transport links to Islington, Shoreditch and the city. Stirling Ackroyd, 331 Mare Street, E8 020 7749 3807, stirlingackroyd.com

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Currell Residential Lansdowne Drive, E8 £1,350,000 Freehold

• Four bedrooms • Two reception rooms

• Open plan kitchen/dining room • Private walled garden

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Visit us online

www.currell.com FULL PAGE.indd 1

22/10/2012 11:34

Hackney

Quebec Wharf 311-313 Kingsland Road Hackney, London E8 4DL

Albion Square, E8 £1,525,000 Freehold

• Five bedrooms • Two bathrooms

• Enclosed gardens • Premier location

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Albion Drive, E8 £750 Per Week

• Three bedrooms • Two reception rooms

• Located moments from London Fields • Outside space

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Telephone

020 7241 4111 FULL PAGE.indd 2

22/10/2012 11:34

Currell Residential Sutton Place, E9 £1,299,950 Freehold

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• Six bedrooms • Grade II listed property

• Adjoining duplex studio • Abundance of original features

Lith Hall, E9 OIEO £4,000,000 Freehold

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• Six double bedroom suites • Arranged in excess of 6,500 sq/ft

• High end technology throughout • Views over Victoria Park

Visit us online

www.currell.com FULL PAGE.indd 1

22/10/2012 11:35

Victoria Park 81 Lauriston Road Victoria Park, London E9 7HJ

Academy Apartments, E8 £500 Per Week

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• Two bedrooms • Loft style apartment

• Large open plan living/dining room • Moments from Hackney Downs station

Balcorne Street, E9 £525 Per Week

• Three bedrooms • Period features throughout

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• Quiet residential street • Outside space

Telephone

020 3222 5555 FULL PAGE.indd 2

22/10/2012 11:36

Where all the best properties in London resideâ&#x20AC;Ś

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Property Notes East Eight Apartments, E8 On the top floor of an imposing Victorian school conversion is this well proportioned apartment offering a flexible living space. The property benefits from features such as double height ceilings, dual aspect sash windows, skylights, exposed brick walls and a mezzanine level bedroom area. Closely situated to the open green space of London Fields (where the heated outdoor 50m lido is located) and the cafés, bars and restaurants of both Wilton Way and Broadway Market. The property is also within walking distance of the numerous transport links of Dalston and Hackney Central. £399,950 BlakeStanley 11-13a Broadway Market, E8 020 7254 7554 blakestanley.co.uk

East Property News Nov 12 DPS.indd 84

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Absolutely

PROPERTY

Beck Road, E8 This magnificent Victorian terraced house is arranged over two floors and offers the ultimate in contemporary urban living, whilst retaining a wealth of grand classic features including sash windows and external shutters. Two double bedrooms, a huge bathroom, dual-aspect reception rooms and a striking kitchen/diner. A tranquil secluded garden and a full width first floor roof terrace. Enviably located in one of London Fields most charming residential streets, moments from the Park, the Lido and Broadway Market. £730,000 Keatons, Hackney branch, 352 Mare Street, E8 020 8525 7788 keatons.com

King Edwards Road, E9 Flats don’t come much cooler than this one! If it’s a loft with lots of character and style that you’re after, then look no further! Located in the sought after King Edwards Road development, close to Victoria Park is this stunning split level loft. The flat is dripping with desirable features such as double height ceilings, mezzanine level (extra sleeping area/bedroom), open plan living space and exposed brickwork, original industrial windows and wood flooring. There is a separate bedroom (in addition to the mezzanine level) that is ideal for guests and a nicely fitted out kitchen and bathroom. £409,950 Davey Stone, 60 Charlotte Road, EC2A 020 7729 2476 daveystone.com

Roding Road, E5 This is an exquisite two-storey, mid-terraced Victorian family house located at the prime end of Roding Road. The house is immaculately presented and retains all of its original charm, features include sash windows, stripped wooden floors, marble fireplaces and original doors and architraves. There are two reception rooms, a spacious kitchen/diner, a landscaped rear garden, three first floor bedrooms and a smart bathroom complete with roll top bath. £560,000 Butler & Stag, 96a Curtain Road, EC2A 020 7613 5550 butlerandstag.com 85

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IN THEIR

Lucy Currell, Sales Negotiator Currell New Homes

’ve been in Hackney all my life so I know the area well, as soon as I heard about the Textile Building I saw it as a fantastic opportunity. I think this building and the area has such great potential, it just keeps getting better and better. I’ve seen it before in Dalston, Hoxton and Haggerston: these small boroughs in Hackney flourish. I’ve seen a lot of professional couples buying in this new development and interestingly, we’ve seen a lot of people who already live in Hackney eager to move in. The locals clearly understand what a historic and original building it is. One specific buyer actually used to work in the building when it was the Burberry factory and he knew as much about the building as I did. Another factor was that as far as I know this is the first warehouse conversion in Hackney. There are a lot of new builds but this was the first of its kind and I thought it was a fantastic opportunity to invest in. The loft-style conversions are reminiscent of Manhattan and it’s a mark of how far this area has come that these comparisons can be made accurately. The full-length windows, the history and the location were all huge factors for me when I decided to buy one of the units. The east contains such a mixture of people and culture, and is so much more exciting than the west of London. I think the redevelopment at the Textile Building will lift the area and will become part of the huge project that is going on in Hackney. Most recently we had the Olympic Games and I feel this is part of the next step in the ongoing transformation of Hackney. Currell New Homes, 020 30044975 currell.com

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Absolutely

Chairman Aitch Group

hen I lived in the East End it was all working class and still recovering from the Second World War. Now it’s a hub of cultural and class differences with people itching to become part of one of the trendiest postcodes in London. The big difference I’ve seen is the perception and attitude towards the East End, views have changed so much over the past twenty years it’s almost unrecognisable. The reason why the Textile Building is so special is the history of the building itself, ranging from its famous origins to the incredible architecture. I remember the years succeeding its run as the Burberry factory and those huge, iconic windows I used to walk by were one of the lasting images of my childhood. The Burberry outlet store is still there today and people come from miles around, even overseas just to visit it. I think the structural aspect of the building is so diverse especially when compared to the standard, sterile and frankly quite depressing architecture that keeps popping up across London. I’ve been Chairman of Aitch for nearly 20 years now and this is one of the most exciting projects I’ve been involved with. Being an East End boy myself I can really connect with the building and it gives me great pride to see how far Hackney has come in such a short space of time. I’m glad to be a huge part of it. Aitch Group, 020 8504 4500 aitchgroup.com

OWN WORDS

Henry Smith,

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHARLOTTE FIELDING

PROPERTY

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BlakeStanley

Horton Road, E8

ÂŁ775,000

Located on a residential street just to the north of London Fields is this three storey double fronted early Victorian house. The property offers five double bedrooms, two bathrooms, two receptions, fully fitted kitchen and private garden. At almost 1500 sq ft, the house offers a great opportunity to create your own unique space.

Freehold

info@blakestanley.co.uk BLAKE STANLEY.NOV.3.indd 2

11-13a Broadway Market, London Fields, London , E8 4PH 24/10/2012 13:03

www.blakestanley.co.uk

Croston Street, E8

020 7254 7554

£650 pw

Anchor House, N1

£575 pw

A three bed house located on a quiet residential street just off Broadway Market. Arranged over three floors, the lower ground houses the kitchen with double doors to the garden and downstairs w.c., on the ground floor a reception and double bedroom, with two further double bedrooms and a bathroom with shower over bath on the first floor.

A three bedroom maisonette located in De Beauvoir a short walk from Dalston. Arranged over two floors, the property has three double bedrooms, all with en-suite shower rooms as well as a separate bathroom. On the ground floor a large open plan fully fitted and equipped kitchen/reception with doors to a terrace.

Unfurnished

Massie Road, E8

£425,000 - £525,000

King Edwards Road, E9 £399,950

Due for completion end November 2012 are two new build freehold houses. One arranged over three floors and the other over two, they each offer two bedrooms, a three piece bathroom suite, an open-plan living area and a balcony. Located moments from numerous amenities and transport links including Dalston, London Fields and Broadway Market.

A ground floor apartment set within a warehouse conversion, with a private west facing patio garden and secure underground parking. Offers many features such as double height exposed concrete ceilings, floor to ceiling windows and a mezzanine level. Located between Victoria Park Village and London Fields/Broadway Market, with excellent transport links.

Freehold

Leasehold

info@blakestanley.co.uk BLAKE STANLEY.NOV.3.indd 3

11-13a Broadway Market, London Fields, London , E8 4PH 24/10/2012 13:03

VALLANCE ROAD, E1 £650 PER WEEK A stunning three bedroom apartment situated within a beautiful modern development boasting a private balcony, open living space and great views. Reception room with open-plan kitchen | Private balcony | Three double bedrooms | Two bathrooms

OARE, WILTSHIRE £2,750,000 FREEHOLD An extraordinary and individual modern country house in a stunning location. Built originally in 1962 for the artist John Merton, Pound House is broadly Palladian in style and is a wide, single storey building with large windows over looking the gardens. It was extended in 1978 to include a garden room and a large studio complex including a workshop and dark room . The property currently has very high ceilings and

HOXTON WHARF, N1 £550 PER WEEK brick parapets surrounding the roof which has good storage space.

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more properties available to view on-line at daveystone.com

> 01

> 02

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> 01 Sutton Place, E9 -Contemporary town house £1,200 pw > 02 The Cricketers, E2 - Canal front appartment £595 pw > 03 Plumbers Row, E1 - City pad £340 pw > 04 Ellingfort Road, E2 - Modern 1 bed £350 pw

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No 1 The Plaza, St Andrews, Bromley-by-Bow No 1 The Plaza is a 27 storey tower comprised of 183 one bedroom suites and one, two and three-bedroom apartments. No 1 The Plaza offers views towards Canary Wharf and the City. Facilities available to residents include an onsite concierge service, a crèche, a coffee shop and a double height fitness suite. The development is next to Bromley-by-Bow underground with connections running into the city within 10 minute. Prices start from £202,000 for one bedroom suites For more information and prices please contact the marketing suite on 0844 811 4334 or visit: barratthomes.co.uk/London

New

Development Notes

Nine Daubeney Road, E5 Telford Homes has unveiled Nine, a unique collection of contemporary three-storey townhouses in Homerton, E5. The nine four-bedroom homes seamlessly blend the very best of modern living and design with the desirable internal architecture of a traditional London townhouse and a fantastic specification. At the heart of each home is a large garden room with bi-fold double glazed doors that lead seamlessly to a spacious patio and landscaped private rear garden. This creates a light, practical living space in the autumn and winter months and the perfect area to entertain guests when it is warmer.

The fully fitted high gloss kitchens by renowned London designer Urban Myth have engineered stone worktops and incorporate fully integrated Smeg appliances. Bathrooms are luxurious and feature bespoke fitted cabinetry and mirrors, ‘walk-in’ showers with large “rainwater head”, everything you would

expect from contemporary living. Priced from £535,000. Homes are ready for occupation from February 2013. For further information, please contact the Telford Homes sales team on 0203 620 8001, telfordhomes.plc.uk/nine

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Absolutely

PROPERTY

Textile Building

Made In Hackney Village, London Once a factory, the Textile Building is being utterly re-imagined into a dramatic and stylish conversion by the Aitch Group, one of London’s most forwardthinking developers. Comprising 64 warehouse loft apartments, the Textile Building in Chatham Place will transport you into a world of sweeping ceilings, outside spaces, capacious interiors and expansive windows, all overlooking the vibrant streets of Hackney. With fantastic transport connections, schools and gardens close by, the Textile Building is ideally located for those craving a community feel in a thriving and cultural area of London. Price on Application 020 3004 4975 thetextilebuilding.com 95

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EAST LONDON STYLE BY TELFORD HOMES

E-pad LONDON E14

APARTMENTS

E-pad 18 stylish new apartments East London living, designed to suit the lifestyle of a new generation of buyers with a great location that means less travel time which makes for a great work/life balance • Over 50% already sold! • 18 stylish new apartments just 7 minutes† from Canary Wharf • One, two and three bedroom apartments with outstanding specification, supported by exceptional 24/7 Customer Service • 5 -10 minutes walk to Langdon Park DLR station with connections for rapid transit to Canary Wharf or Stratford City and access to Tube connections for The City • Completions due Q1 2013 (est.)

Prices from £215,000* Actual view south west from E-pad 5th floor towards Canary Wharf.

Call: 0203 538 3273 www.epadapartments.com

A development by: Selling Agent:

*Prices correct at time of going to press.†Transit time station to station from Langdon Park to Canary Wharf courtesy of www.tfl.gov.uk

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DAUBENEY ROAD, HACKNEY, E5.

London townhouses with space to explore 4 bedroom townhouses that offer fantastic and stylish living for the price of a two bedroom apartment in neighbouring boroughs. Offering over 1250 sq ft of internal living space with high specification including four bedrooms, fully glazed garden room with bi-fold doors, bringing ‘the outdoors in’, and taking advantage of your own private garden.

Ready for move-in from February 2012 Pre-Showhome prices from £535,000* 020 3620 8004 www.ninehouses.co.uk *Price correct at time of going to press. Computer generated images of NINE.

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Stirling Ackroyd All around East London E8

£695 pw

£360 pw

HACKNEY LETTINGS Cecilia Road - Beautiful 3 bed town house split over 3 floors benefiting from all its original period features including fireplaces and real wood floors. Decorated throughout with a wealth of character.

HACKNEY LETTINGS King Edwards Road - Impressive 1 bedroom split level warehouse apartment featuring exposed concrete, wood flooring, high ceilings and original warehouse windows.

£350 pw

£575 pw

SHOREDITCH LETTINGS Gwynne House - A selection of stunning newly refurbished apartments all fully fitted integrated kitchens and oak flooring finished to an exceptional standard throughout.

SHOREDITCH LETTINGS Innovation Studios - Stunning bright and contemporary 1300sqft loft apartment offering versatile accommodation benefiting from full length sky lights allowing the whole apartment to fill with natural light.

SHOREDITCH 020 7749 3838

CLERKENWELL 020 7549 0606

BANKSIDE 020 7940 3888

BLOOMSBURY 020 7256 3244

HACKNEY 020 7749 3807

HAMPSTEAD/ST JOHN’S WOOD 020 7748 5224

IBIZA 0034 971 326 788

ISTANBUL +90 (0)212 322 7171

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£699,500

£945,000

HACKNEY SALES Stanford Mews - Stunning 1,200 sq ft 3 storey townhouse with 2 bathrooms and a large open plan kitchen/entertaining space leading to a private south facing garden.

HACKNEY SALES Queensbridge Road - Charming Georgian residence arranged over 3 levels this property oozes character and enjoys a host of grand classic features.

EC2

£320,000

£940,000

SHOREDITCH SALES Carillon Court - Stylish 1 bedroom apartment (with lift) in recently completed development boasting great natural light just moments from the vibrant area of Brick Lane.

SHOREDITCH SALES City Lofts - Fantastic loft apartment arranged over 2 floors with original exposed brickwork, high ceilings and vaulted beams being just some of the features.

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30%

* Maximum ceiling height in main rooms only. Not all apartments.

OF FACTORY CONVERSION NOW RESERVED

4 METRES*

STYLISH & UNIQUE WAREHOUSE LOFT APARTMENTS IN LONDON, E9

2 BEDROOMS PRICES FROM £325,000 SHOW FLAT AVAILABLE TO VIEW CALL TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT FULL PAGE.indd 2 Untitled-2 2

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