Absolutely Blackheath & Greenwich January 2017

BLACKHEATH & GREENWICH JANUARY 2017 / £3.95

LET’S MAKE GREAT ART

IN THE STUDIO WITH MARION DEUCHARS

FRESH FACED

WALL FLOWER

REVIVE YOUR WINTER SKIN

MOODY FLORALS FOR WINTER

BLUE SKIES NEW YEAR, FRESH PERSPECTIVES

STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT SE_Jan_COVERS_.indd 2

20/12/2016 17:03

Our flagship office at 1 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath Village.

Additional Sales & Lettings offices at Blackheath Standard, East Greenwich, West Greenwich and Lee, as well as a dedicated Property Management office.

No-nonsense, straightforward & honest advice from The Property Experts We started from humble beginnings over 40 years ago in a tiny office by Blackheath Station. Today, thanks to the support, loyalty and trust of the local residents, we have grown into one of the leading and most respected estate agents in the area.

CELEBRATING

40 YEARS

1975-2015

Whether you’re considering letting or selling, or would just like some property advice, contact one of our five local branches today to discuss your requirements or to arrange a free market appraisal.

Find out more at johnpayne.com

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The Property Experts

26/06/2016 20:52

www.pedderproperty.com

Safe pair of hands.

At Pedder, we pride ourselves on the quality of our service.

We can talk about our solid track record, or that we can give your property excellent, targeted exposure, or that we have been operating in the same area of London for nearly 40 years ...

But when the market is cautious or turbulent, you need to know that you’re dealing with knowledgeable and experienced professionals who won’t drop the ball.

Pedder. Nobody knows South East London like we know South East London.

Residential Sales | Residential Lettings | Property Management | New Homes Specialists | Mortgages Commercial Property | Land / Development | Chartered Surveyors | Property Maintenance

Pedder. SE London’s premier agent

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28/10/2016 14:20 11:10 25/10/2016

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20/12/2016 16:36

Januar y 2017

24 c u lt u r e

10 WHAT’S ON

Diary dates for January

12 16

42 23 GET THE LOOK Stylish winter florals

24 FASHION SHOOT

MARION DEUCHARS

Absolutely chats to the quirky designer

GET CREATIVE

We round-up our favourite evening classes

Embrace eclectic colours and textures

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

32 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL The month’s best beauty buys

35 FRESH-FACED

fa s h i o n

New skin-loving products

20 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL This month’s hottest trends and products

Food & Drink

42 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

DULWICH JANUARY 2017 / £3.95

LET’S MAKE GREAT ART

IN THE STUDIO WITH MARION DEUCHARS

FRESH FACED

WALL FLOWER

REVIVE YOUR WINTER SKIN

MOODY FLORALS FOR WINTER

BLUE SKIES

400 Rabbits, SE19

INTERIORS

56 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

NEW YEAR, FRESH PERSPECTIVES

STYLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT SE_Jan_COVERS_.indd 1

45 RESTAURANT REVIEW

20/12/2016 17:01

Cover:

bimba y lola b i m b ay l o l a .c o m

News and views

58 THE CRAZE FOR CACTI Join the club

5 USE THIS CH_Jan7_Contents.indd 5

56

t r av e l

48 PORTUGAL

Where the city break meets the beach holiday

53 EDINBURGH ESCAPE This season's ultimate UK escape

PROPERTY

72 PROPERTY NEWS

The best investments in London

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:44

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

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

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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

EDITOR’S letter

V

ery few people will have been sorry to say goodbye to 2016.

Even leaving global politics aside, it wasn't the best year for London.

So hopes for 2017 are higher than ever and we are all fully expecting things to be better this new year.

In these pages, we're focusing strongly on our homes. We look at paint colours and wallpaper, swoon over cast iron radiators and meet the brains behind Catcus Club, the fashionable new subscription service that delivers greenery to your door. In fact, we will be mostly spending January at home, aside from a few trips to the gym, of course – though we will be exercising good intentions

7 CH_Jan17_Eds_Letter.indd 7

for the rest of the year by booking ourselves into some new evening classes. Personally, I'm keen on calligraphy, though you might prefer food styling, candle making or origami. We round-up some ideas for a bit of armchair browsing in this issue – and meanwhile, we are very proud of our growing website absolutely.london, so sign up for our weekly newsletter to be kept informed of all developments.

And a happy new year to all our readers. ◆

Pendle Harte Editor

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:31

Dulwich & Sydenham Hill Golf Club Grange Lane, College Road, Dulwich, SE21 7LH

“A Hidden Gem� - Join Now

We welcome applications for adult and junior membership from both current players and those interested in learning.

With three teaching professionals and competitive events running throughout the year Dulwich is the perfect place to learn and play golf within 5 miles of the centre of London.

Golf Lessons

Visitors & Societies

Lessons available every day of the week For all age groups and standards.

We welcome visitors and societies Monday to Friday incl.

For all enquiries please call 020 8693 3961 or email: golf@dulwichgolf.co.uk

www.dulwichgolf.co.uk

DULWICH GOLF.02.indd 1

25/11/2016 08:58

p. 10

MARION DEUCHARS

p. 12

CREATIVE CLASSES

p. 16

The Beatles, by Peter Laurie, 1964 Condé Nast Archive London at the National Portrait Gallery

> WHAT'S ON

9 CHIS_Jan17_Culture_Opener.indd 9

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:16

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AMALUNA Fro m 1 2 Ja n u a r y Ro y a l Al b e r t Ha ll fter last year's runaway success, A Cirque du Soleil is bringing their ground-breaking show back to the Royal Albert Hall. This awe-inspiring production is a celebration of love and a tribute to the work and voice of women. u Kensington Gore, SW7 royalalberthall.com

US/THEM

New Year’s Day Parade

Fro m 16 t h Ja n u a r y D o rfm a n T he a tre fter a sell-out run at the Edinburgh A Fringe Festival, Bronks bring this moving production to the National Theatre. When terrorists stormed a school in Beslan, the siege lasted three days and left many dead. This innovative piece of storytelling explores the way children cope with traumatic situations. u Stage Door Avenue, SE1 nationaltheatre.org.uk

1 Jan uary Var iou s L ondon loc ation s

Wrap up and head out to join Pearly Kings, acrobats and West End performers as they celebrate London’s 31st New Year's Parade.

Watch as they float, twirl march and drum a 2.2 mile route around London's iconic landmarks. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good vantage point.

Starts at the Ritz Hotel, 150 Piccadilly, W1J;

lnydp.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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AUSTEN COMEDY T h ro u gh o u t Ja n u a r y L e i c es te r S q u a re T he a tre mprov gets a bad rap but anyone who I dismisses it clearly hasn't seen Austentatious. This improvised comedy brings you period drama like you’ve never seen it before. Join an all-star cast for a riotously funny Austen-inspired masterpiece, based on a title suggested by the audience. u 6 Leicester Place, WC2H leicestersquaretheatre.com

10 23/12/2016 09:17

ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

NORDIC MATTERS

Fro m 14 Ja nu a r y S o u thb a nk C e ntre tarting this month, the S Southbank is dedicating an entire year of programming to Nordic art and culture. Audiences are invited to immerse themselves in Nordic culture: from the much-loved Moomins, to Lego and Hygge, alongisde countless other exciting and intriguing art, literature and music events. u Belvedere Road, SE1;

MISE-ENABYME

southbankcentre.co.uk

T h ro u gh o u t Ja n u a r y O x o To w e r

must see

TAXI DRIVER

After huge success at the V&A, London-based design studio de Allegri & Fogale have brought their ‘Mise-en-abyme’ installation to its new home at Oxo Tower Wharf.

Exploring ideas around recycling, their products consciously optimise the life-cycle of materials and consider design’s environmental impact on our world.

6 Januar y Royal Festiva l Ha ll s part of Film Scores Live, A see Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver, with Bernard Herrmann’s score performed live by the BBC Concert Orchestra. Set against a lurid cinematic vision of New York, DeNiro’s Travis Bickle is the taxi driver who becomes lost and alienated as he struggles to connect with the city he can’t understand. u Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1; southbankcentre.co.uk

Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House St, SE1;

oxotower.co.uk

EVENT OF THE MONTH

PROKOFIEV'S ROMEO & JULIET 14 Ja n u a ry R oyal Fe s ti v al Hall mmerse yourself in the spellbinding performance of Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet from world-renowned conductor Teodor Currentzis. In aid of the Gift of Life charity, the evening raises money for children with

I

11 Dulwich_Jan17_Whats_On.indd 11

cancer across Russia, and includes sonnets and readings from Shakespeare’s plays performed by British film and theatre actor, Ralph Fiennes.  Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd, SE1;

southbankcentre.co.uk

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:17

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STRAIGHT TO THE

art

Illustrator Marion Deuchars’ portfolio includes countless commercial projects as well as activity books for children. Absolutely meets her Interview Pendle Harte

A

rtist Marion Deuchars' CV spans everything from stamps to window displays, menu designs, food illustrations and book covers. In 2011 she published her first art activity book for children, Let's Make Some Great Art and its instant success led to two more. Her covers for Penguin's George Orwell novels won the V&A's book illustration award and her long-standing collaboration with Carluccios has made her work familiar to many. Born in Scotland, she studied at the Royal College of Art and now works from her studio in north London.

PENDLE HARTE: You have provided illustrations for everything from stamps to menus, via newspapers and book covers. How do you tailor your style to different needs?

MARION DEUCHARS: A new commission is always an interesting challenge for me to make some new artwork. I like that I don’t always know what it will look like, that it will be a surprise in some ways.

I have to think beforehand; should it be type-led? colourful?, serious? I try to produce artwork that I think suits the subject best rather than have a one-style-fits-all approach. I start all projects by playing with different materials as a way of coming up with ideas and direction.

I think the

PROCESS OF MAKING and DOING is as IMPORTANT as the END RESULT

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PH: Your art books for children have so much character and enthusiasm.

How did they come about? Tell us about the new one.

MD: The books have all grown from my first book Let’s Make Some Great Art. It was like art school in a book, so the subsequent ones are the result of doing the many exercises in the book. My latest

12 22/12/2016 18:54

ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE Marion Deuchars in her studio

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absolutely.london

22/12/2016 18:54

JonaQuestArt BRINGING YOU A DIFFERENT FORM OF ARTISTIC CREATIVITY IN THE HEART OF GREENWICH

Whether you are looking for something bright and bold, small and subtle, or cool and captivating you’re sure to be spoilt for choice, while viewing a continuous rotation of unique original artworks by different artists under one roof at JonaQuestArt. JonaQuestArt is on a quest to showcase and promote the work of new and emerging international contemporary artists, with a particular focus on the talents of African artists and its Diaspora.

At JonaQuestArt, we celebrate culture and colour from across the globe. Visit us at: JonaQuestArt Gallery 36 Greenwich Church Street, Greenwich, London SE10 9BL and online at www.jonaquestart.com

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Feb - Mar 2017 highlights l Music l Classical l Children’s events l Comedy l Spoken Word l Community l Exhibitions

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

Sat 4 Feb 8pm

The Demon Barbers Sat 11 Mar 8pm BLACKHEATH HALLS.indd 1

_DUL_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 1

Guildhall Cantata Ensemble

Sun 19 Feb 11am

Trio Isimsiz Sun 5 Mar 11am

Thumbelina Sat 11 Feb 1pm & 3pm

Eric Knowles Sun 5 Mar 2.30pm

Rapunzel Sat 11 Mar 12pm & 3pm

Box office 020 8463 0100 blackheathhalls.com 23 Lee Road, London SE3 9RQ 19/12/2016 14:46

22/12/2016 18:23

ARTS & CULTURE / PROFILE Art books for children

endless source of inspiration. At the same time, I’m always looking at contemporary art and Illustration. There have also been some great contemporary exhibitions recently, Ai Weiwei and Carsten Holler to name a few. I try to get to as many exhibitions as I can.

PH: What is your typical working day like?

Walk the dog, walk the kids to train station, pilates class, walk to work. I

It's like

ART SCHOOL IN a book

one, Art Play, is the most accessible of all my books. It’s based on how I approach all of my work, which is first and foremost to play. I think the process of making and doing is as important as the end result and this book tries to celebrate that.

It’s a book for the very young and old.

PH: How would you describe your style?

MD: I use a lot of hand lettering, but I also love to draw and paint. I use mainly conventional materials like paper, pencil, paints, and scissors… It's always hard describing your own style, but I receive many comments about my 'effortless' feel – I work hard at that.

PH: How did you come to be an illustrator? When did it start?

I studied at Duncan of Jordanstone in Dundee. The first year was about trying everything

Spreads from Art Play

from ceramics to photography to painting. By the end of the year we had to decide what to specialise in and I chose the Illustration and Printmaking department as it seemed to be where my work was heading.

PH: What is your favourite kind of commission?

MD: One that takes me to a place I don’t know. Milton Glaser says that ‘we should work towards the unknown’ and I completely agree.

PH: What other artists and illustrators do you like?

MD: I love seeing the greats.

London has had so many fantastic exhibitions recently, from Matisse to Hockney. I also love looking at ancient art like Aztec. The British Museum is an

15 NH_Dec16_MARION DEUCHARS.indd 15

average a 25 hour working week, which is never long enough but it’s all I can do if I want to achieve a nice work/family life balance. I work in a shared open plan studio with 24 other creatives. It used to be a Victorian shoe factory. It’s a nice place to go every day. I have lots of space and can make a mess. It’s nice to have lunch at a table that’s not my desk, it’s good to ask for advice when I need it.

PH: What are you working on next?

MD: I’m working on another picture book for Laurence King as a follow up to Bob the Artist, which will be released next autumn. We also have plans to make a number of Bob the Artist toys and gifts including Bob Dominos. 

Art Play by Marion Deuchars (Laurence King Publishing) is out now.

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 18:55

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Get Crafty January is a time for new beginnings, so why not take up a new hobby? We round up some tempting evening classes...

Wo r d s J u l i a K r u p s k a

Food Styling

I

n the age of Instagram foodies, taste buds have taken a backseat and it’s never been more favoured to photograph and upload an aesthetically pleasing dish. With the help of food writer and stylist Jennifer Joyce, and former deputy food editor of BBC Good Food magazine, Sarah Cook you certainly won’t need to invest in a five-star dining experience to do so. Their six-week evening course will teach you all tricks of the trade, kit essentials, tips on food photography and prop styling. leiths.com

Calligraphy

Food styling

Calligraphy

C

ounting Burberry, Nike and Jimmy Choo among their client archive, Lamplighter London also offers intimate calligraphy workshops for the public. You can develop beautiful techniques with founder and author of Nib + Ink, Chiara Perano, and receive a personalised selection of stationery treats to take away too. lamplighterlondon.com

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16 22/12/2016 18:55

ARTS & CULTURE / CLASSES Candle-making

Candle-making

T

ucked away in the heart of Belgravia is Rachel Vosper's luxurious candlemaking boutique. Create your own bespoke candles in etched glass containers, along with a selection of fragranced decorations while you sip champagne – this is a truly enjoyable experience. ◆ rachelvosper.com

L u x u r y C h o c o l at e Workshop

T

hese indulgent chocolate workshops in Hackney kick off with blending a devilish chocolate vodka martini. You'll discover how to infuse chocolate with essential oils and create a giant chocolate button from delicious Belgium chocolate. During the session you'll taste a selection of amazing chocolates from around the globe then pipe, dip and decorate tasty cream truffles, while enjoying a glass of champagne too. ◆ redletterdays.co.uk

Screen-printing

Screen Printing Print Club London

I

Origami

f you’re a dab hand at Photoshop and looking to create an arty one-off wonder, Print Club London are hosting two-day deluxe workshops offering the chance to create your very own bespoke screen print. With the help of an expert tutor, you’ll digitally create your design - coat, expose and wash screens before delving into the magic of mixing inks and curating layers. ◆ printclublondon.com

Origami

E

ver longed for the secret to the perfect flapping bird? Wonder no more, thanks to Britain’s leading origami artist Sam Tsang and his private, champagne-included, workshops.

Gather a group of friends, split the price and indulge in a totally customisable workshop tailored entirely to your preferences - a choice of mindful, collaborative or educational themes make for a pleasurably nostalgic folding experience. ◆ rulyexperiences.com

17 Chis_Jan17_CREATIVE CLASSES.indd 17

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 18:56

ABSOLUTELY london

www.absolutely.london is now live

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

FOLLOW US AT @AbsolutelyMagazines @absolutely_mags

ABSOLUTELY.LONDON.indd 1

09/11/2016 15:31

> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p20

TREND: WINTER FLORALS

p. 23

FASHION SHOOT: SEA BREEZE

p. 24

TRÈS TRÈS CHIC Meet Uterqüe: the impossibly cool fashion brand loved by those in the know. For AW16 we’ll be investing in their classic polos, crisp poplin shirts and perfectly proportioned cashmere knits, which will carry us right through to spring. uterque.com

19 CHIS_Jan17_Fashion_Opener.indd 19

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 18:57

st y l e C e n t r a l

Embrace camo luxe trousers, military cool and the new 'it' bag this January Wo r d s j oy m o n t g o m e r y

4 OF THE BEST

ACTIVEWEAR BRANDS Kick-start your new year workout with cool new kit 01

BEST FOR BASICS • Lululemon This Canadian sportswear label has gone from strength to strength, offering gym bunnies a wide range of high quality workout gear and accessories in classic fits and flattering hues.

lululemon.co.uk ◆

02

NEW BRAND TO KNOW • Michi If you're looking for a lesser-known name then head over to Michi, the high-end workout brand that offers a sexy twist on gym basics. We love their mesh panelled leggings which hug in all the right places with miraculous leg-sculpting results.

michiny.com ◆

03

MOST STYLISH • Varley For those wanting workout wear that can be worn from desk to gym to supermarket, Varley is the name to know. Inspired by California’s costal culture and London’s eclectic style, this brand uses unique and eye-catching prints to deliver Instagram-worthy looks.

04

Social Star

gap.com

Madga Butrym’s label was founded in 2014 yet has already graced many a star-studded Instagram feed. Combining modern design with traditional craftsmanship, Butrym offers an avant garde yet accessible aesthetic. For AW16 she has cleverly married feminine accents with an anarchic glamour, securing her a place in the fashion big leagues. magdabutrym.com

varley.com ◆

HIGH STREET HERO • GapFit It might not be the first brand that springs to mind when you think of sportswear, but Gap is every gym bunny's affordable gem. From yoga and studio-wear, to barre and running kit, their wide-range of high quality separates come in a plethora of trend-led cuts and high-tech fabrics.

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Magda Butrym

20 22/12/2016 18:59

FASHION / NOTES

7

CAMO LUXE Elizabeth & James

of the best

We love discovering new hero pieces, and for AW16 Elizabeth & James has seriously delivered. These luxe quilted trousers tick both the military and athleisure trends, and can be glammed up for drinks or dressed down with layered knits for weekend casual. Win win. £265; net-a-porter.com

MILITARY COATS 01

Stand to attention this season 02

editor’s

PICK

BODY SCULPTURES Jessie Harris London

If you haven’t heard of Jessie Harris, then you will soon. Graduating from Chelsea College of Art in 2010, Harris has already graced the covers of countless glossy magazines. Handcrafted in her east London home, the brand offers sculptural, high-end silhouettes at truly affordable prices. jessieharris.co.uk

03

04

05

THE NEW ‘IT’ BAG J .W. A n d e r s o n

It's official: the ‘it’ bag is back. Step aside Chloe Faye, because J.W.Anderson’s pierce bag is the look to love this season. Rendered in soft lamb leather, this septum piercinginspired bag has, fittingly, been spotted on the arms of countless ‘it’ girls, and will add the perfect punk edge to any outfit. £1,965; j-w-anderson.com

06

HERITAGE CHIC Archive by Alexa

Alexa Chung's Archive by Alexa line for Marks & Spencer is back for a second season with a host of sell-out looks. Fusing her own unique brand of retro style with a fashion forward twist, the Ellerby coat and Headrow jumper are sure to be a sellout. marksandspencer.com

21 Chis_Jan16_Fashion_Confidential.indd 21

07

1. MAJE, Long military-style coat, £479; maje.com 2. ZARA, Jacket with toggles, £89.99; zara.com 3. BURBERRY, Cape-back wool and cashmere-blend coat, £2,495; net-a-porter.com 4. PINKY LAING, Navy velvet military jacket, £ 700; avenue32.com 5. TOMAS MAIER, Double-breasted wool-blend pea coat, £645; net-a-porter.com 6. ROBERTO CAVALLI. Cropped embellished velvet jacket, £1,445; net-a-porter.com 7. SACAI, Military coat, £1,410; farfetch.com

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 18:59

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

which is recognized worldwide as the best and most effective method of permanent hair removal. Our clinic and laser therapists are fully regulated and under-go regular advanced training. Not only do we treat hair with our laser machine, but we can also treat a variety of skin concerns, including veins, rejuvenation and pigmented lesions.

FACE THE DAY Nova Aesthetic Clinic brings a touch of Harley Street to Greenwich

J

ust a stone’s throw away from Cutty Sark Greenwich DLR station, Nova Aesthetic Clinic and MediSpa, offers everything from cuttingedge aesthetic non-surgical treatments to indulgent Spa facials and massage, using the latest holistic products administered by ex-Harley Street practitioners.

We met with Ciara, Senior Aesthetic Practitioner, who introduced us to the team and showed us the two sections of the building: the Aesthetic Clinic, which was a clean and modern environment, and the Spa, a haven of relaxation. They even have an exclusive Boutique nail bar.

What is the most popular treatment in this clinic?

The most common concerns we treat are aging, acne scarring and pigmentation.

Obviously everyone has different specific

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NOVA_JAn17.indd 22

A clean

and MODERN environment...

A HAVEN of relaxation concerns so all of our treatments are totally bespoke, designed to effectively target your problematic area. We determine the course of treatment by carrying out a 4D scan of the skin then analysing the photos. We use a combination of microneedling with a dermapen and chemical peeling to treat the majority of problems.

Nova is also known for their hi-tech laser hair removal, what machine do you use?

We use Cynosure medical grade device,

What are your most popular body treatments for sculpting and fat reduction?

In the clinic we use fat freezing and endermologie massage to treat stubborn fat, cellulite and toxin build-up. We also combine these treatments with Universal Body Contour Wrap for a more effective treatment and an amazing guaranteed inch loss or your money back!

What injectables treatments do you offer?

More and more people are coming to us for injectable procedures, such as botox and dermal fillers. The stigma attached to injectables has well and truly gone. It is completely safe, provided the Doctors are GMC regulated and fully trained and the quality of the product is very high.

Our doctors have years of experience and teach other practitioners about fillers and mesotherapy injections. We only use the highest quality of product from Juvederm and Teosyal, and we often have celebrities coming to Nova as we pride ourselves on our discreteness.

Finally, after the discussion, we had a 4D skin scan and were astonished by the level of detail that the camera picked up: from dehydration to sun damage pigmentation.

Ciara then gave us very detailed skincare advice, followed by a bespoke treatment plan. The facial we had was amazing, leaving our skin bright and smooth for days. We will certainly return to continue with our prescribed plan. u

To book your complimentary consultation call 020 8293 1070 novaclinic.co.uk

3 College Approach, Greenwich SE10 9HY;

22 22/12/2016 19:01

FASHION / TREND GLAMOROUS, Floral Brocade Bomber Jacket, £55; glamorous.com

MARC JACOBS, Floral-Flocked Gingham Blouse, £305; matchesfashion.com

GUCCI, Princetown Fur-Lined Floral-Brocade Loafers, £515; matchesfashion.com

ERDEM AW16

CHRISTOPHER KANE, Floral Embroidered Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt, £395; net-a-porter.com

MARNI, Flower Print Asymmetric Dress, £1,660; farfetch.com

JONATHAN SAUNDERS, Alex Embroidered Floral Shirt, £575; farfetch.com

SELF-PORTRAIT

Antoinette Blouse, £200; selfridges.com

WALL FLOWER WHISTLES, Gwyneth Jacquard Dress, £195; whistles.com

Embrace the brooding beauty of the English garden

RED VALENTINO, Sequinned Flower Tote, £755; farfetch.com

GUCCI, Appliquéd Silk-Blend Organza Gown, £2,740; net-a-porter.com

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

LAURENCE DACADE, Pete Embroidered Velvet Ankle Boots, £615; net-a-porter.com

23 USE Chis_Jan17_Fashion_Products.indd 23

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:13

SEA BREEZE Reinvigorate your wardrobe with ecletic colours and textures b i m b ay l o l a .c o m

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22/12/2016 19:14

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Bespoke Kitchens & Furniture SINCE 1990

TheDovetailJoint creativedesignandcraftsmanship

FOREST HILL | 020 8291 5578 | WWW.THEDOVETAILJOINT.CO.UK

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26/01/2015 09:55

> BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

p.32

CHANEL READER EVENT p. 37 PERFUME COLUMN p. 39

CIAO BELLA She’s one half of the Hadid modelling duo whose film noir beauty has captured the heart of a generation. This year Bella Hadid hit the jackpot after being announced as the new face of Dior beauty. Will this millenial launch the historic fashion house into a social media age?

Watch this space. dior.com

31 CHIS_December16_BEAUTY OPENER.indd 31

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:16

FItNESS C o l u m n

Start your year the right way with the latest beauty & wellness trends W o r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

5 OF THE BEST

GYMS From holistic and luxury to trendy and budget 01 • DESIGN

The Third Space, Tower Bridge With sister clubs in Soho, Marylebone and Canary Wharf, Third Space Tower Bridge is the latest in a line of beautifully designed workout spaces. With muted interiors, modern art and naked lightbulbs aplenty, this is the go-to gym for design-lovers.

thirdspace.london

02 • TRENDY

1Rebel, Broadgate From the son of Fitness First owner comes 1Rebel, the hipster exercise joint that brands itself as the 'anti-gym'. Their sites offer industrial chic interiors that are divided into two rooms: one for spinning and one for ‘reshape’. Expect coolerthan-thou 20-somethings. ◆

1rebel.co.uk

03 • FAMILY-FRIENDLY The Park Club, Acton

This Acton-based family-friendly health club is set on 27 acres of land and hosts a plethora of sports activities and events for kids. Tired parents can also enjoy pampering at the on-site Medispa or a child-free dinner at the Terrace Restaurant.

theparkclub.co.uk

04 • BUDGET

The Gym, Vauxhall If you're looking to save the pennies, or simply prefer a more functional gym experience, then check out The Gym. This contract-free, 24-hour access gym offers an extensive range of equipment and classes in a no-frills space.

thegymgroup.com

05 • HOLISTIC

Grace Belgravia Launched in 2014, Grace Belgravia is the womensonly members club leading the way in wellness.

Led by a host of experts, the venue houses a gym, spa, restaurant and wellbeing clinic, offering a truly multi-disciplinary approach to health.

gracebelgravia.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Jan17_Beauty note.indd 32

Seasonal Escapism Guerlain

From Guerlain’s iconic fragrance comes a holiday make-up collaboration with supermodel Natalia Vodianova. Inspired by the romantic legend of Shalimar, this three-piece edit comprises of illuminating pearls, shimmer mist and an intense rogue lipstick. A portion of the profits will go to Vodianova’s charity, the Naked Heart Foundation, so you’ll do good while looking good. guerlain.com

32 22/12/2016 19:17

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

8

POSH BEAUTY Victoria Beckham x E s t ée L a u d e r

She's the girl power pop star turned fashion designer who has turned her hand to beauty. Continuing to smash expectations, Victoria Beckham has delivered a show-stopping collaboration with Estée Lauder.

Hero buys include a double-ended eye pencil and the perfect red lipstick.

Is there anything she can't do? from £22; esteelauder.co.uk

SCARLET WOMAN Lancôme

To celebrate its 25th birthday, iconic Lancôme lipstick L’Absolu Rogue has had a chic reinvention. Make-up artist to the stars Lisa Eldridge has partnered with the brand to create 14 new shades, from nude pinks to extroverted reds, all in a variety of textures. We’ll have one in every shade please. £25.50; lancome.co.uk

of the best

NAIL STRENGTHENING POLISHES

1 3

editor's

PICK

EXTRAORDINARY The Ordinary

It's rare that we come across premium skincare for under £10, but The Ordinary is breaking the luxury mould. The no-frills range of 10 serums focuses on simple, active ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and retinol. 30,000 were sold within two weeks of launching and its virtues extolled by countless beauty editors. Get it before it goes. £4; ordinaries.com

DRINK UP Aveda

January is a tough time for our skin.

Indulgent feasting, boozy New Years and lack of vitamin D mean our skin is in need of a boost. The beauty gods have offered us respite in the form of Aveda Botanical's new Kinetics Hydrating Treatment Lotion.

Based on Asian skincare routines, this intensely hydrating treatment is made from Algae extract and will offer your skin that enviable dewy glow. £34; aveda.co.uk

7

4 6

8

1. BUTTER LONDON, SHEER WISDOM NAIL TINTED MOISTURISER, £15; lookfantastic.com 2. DEBORAH LIPPMANN, TURN BACK TIME ANTI-AGEING BASE COAT, £18; harrods.com 3. ELEGANT TOUCH, NAIL APOTHECARY, GOLD RIDGE FILLER 03, £8.95; boots.com 4. MAVALA, FORTIFYING AND PROTECTIVE BASE COAT FOR NAILS, £16; allbeauty.com 5. SECHE, SECHE REBUILD, £11.95; lookfantastic.com 6. JESSICA, RESTORATION BASE COAT, £18.95; feelunique.com 7. IBX, NATURAL NAIL STRENGTHENER, £10; louellabelle.co.uk 8. NAILSINC, NAILKALE COLOUR, £14; nailsinc.com

33 Chis_Jan17_Beauty note.indd 33

5

2

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:17

Bang & Olufsen of Bexleyheath 155 Broadway Bexleyheath Kent DA6 7EZ Tel: 020 8303 2760

BANG OLUFSEN.indd 1

Bang & Olufsen of Bromley 62 High Street Bromley Kent BR1 1EG Tel: 020 8466 8080

Bang & Olufsen of Cambridge 29 Magdalene Street Cambridge CB3 0AF Tel: 01223 464400

Bang & Olufsen of Maidstone 37 Royal Star Arcade High Street Maidstone ME14 1JL Tel: 01622 756756

Bang & Olufsen of Tunbridge Wells 66 Mount Pleasant Road Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1RB Tel: 01892 527525

22/11/2016 10:35

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS SHISEIDO,

Shimmering Cream Eye Colour, £22; harrods.com

NUXE,

Huile Prodigieuse Or, £19; spacenk.com

MAC,

Strobe Cream, £24.50; maccosmetics.co.uk

BENEFIT,

Benetint, £24.50; benefitcosmetics.com

BOBBI BROWN,

Intensive Skin Serum Foundation, £40; bobbibrown.co.uk

LAURA MERCIER

Lip Balm SPF 15, £17.50; spacenk.com

PERRICONE MD,

No Foundation Foundation Serum, £45; perriconemd.co.uk

HOURGLASS,

CHARLOTTE TILBURY,

Veil Mineral Primer, £46; net-a-porter.com

THE BODY SHOP,

Brow & Lash Gel, £10; thebodyshop.com

Mini Miracle Eye Wand, £29; charlottetilbury.com

FRESH AS A DAISY Press re-set with the best skin-loving beauty buys B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

URBAN DECAY,

Naked 2 Eyeshadow Palette, £38.50; urbandecay.co.uk

7. ESTEE LAUDER,

Perfectionist Serum Compact Makeup SPF15, £43; esteelauder.co.uk

NARS,

Illuminating Multiple, £29; narscosmetics.co.uk

BARE MINERALS,

SPF 25 Mineral Veil, £21; bareminerals.co.uk

35 Chis_Jan17_BeautyProducts_.indd 35

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:18

MINDBODY THERAPY Your choice in complementary health Deep Tissue Massage, Acupuncture, Hypnotherapy, Counselling Life Coaching, Beauty Chiropody plus more...

Quote AB01 to receive £5 off your treatment by the end of January 120 Stanstead Road, Forest Hill, SE23 1BX www.therapy4life.net 020 3417 6108

MindBodyTherapyCentre @mindbodytalk MBTherapy

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22/12/2016 12:07

IRONING PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

J&B IMPRESS CO LTD Established in your area for over 18 years Our customers trust us, so can you!

Professional ironing service only £1.20 per item We also collect and return your laundry the next day (2.50 per kilo) (min order £15)

New customers will receive 10% off min order £15.00 We only use the finest industrial ironing equipment We also iron duvets, sheets and table cloths FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY (Mon-Fri eve only 7-10pm) Covering SE4 • SE6 • SE13 • SE14 • SE15 • SE19 SE21 • SE22 • SE23 • SE24 • SE26 • SE27

DRY CLEANING SERVICES ALSO AVAILABLE

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 0207 640 2272 OR TEXT YOUR ORDER TO 07903 208 025

www.jbimpress.com 52 East Dulwich Road SE22 9AX Opening times: Mon-Sat 7am-7pm Closed Sunday JB IMPRESS.indd 1

_DUL_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 2

17/12/2015 15:35

22/12/2016 18:18

HEALTH & BEAUTY / READER OFFER

Absolutely & Chanel

READER EVENT Chanel's new Coco Codes collection is revealed at a series of exclusive reader events Wo r d s e v e h e r b e r t

B

etween 20 and 27 of January, readers will have the chance to visit one of three Chanel standalone beauty boutiques (Covent Garden, Spitalfields or Burlington Arcade) and try out the new collection. The £45 ticket will be redeemable against purchase of a one-hour full make-up appointment with a Chanel make-up expert – perfect for that special birthday or anniversary. If this isn’t enough, attendees will walk away with a complimentary goody bag filled with luxury Chanel samples. Complimentary champagne and soft drinks will also be served throughout.

Chanel’s Coco Codes collection was created to celebrate, reinterpret and decipher the brand’s five iconic colour codes of red, black, gold, white and beige. It is a journey into the colours that shaped the life of Gabrielle Chanel. Her use of colour was defiant,

unexpected, elegant and bold - and always utterly original. Now a part of the very fabric and history of Chanel, it is impossible to imagine the House without them. Yet in this collection, Lucia Pica, Chanel global creative make-up and colour designer, has found a way to re-infuse these classic shades with her own elegant irreverence, breathing new life into these beloved colours, and challenging conventional modes of beauty. Coco Codes encourages women to embrace the codes of Chanel and reinterpret them for their own individual style. ◆ l To book your appointment call or email the boutique of your choice: For Covent Garden telephone: 020 7240 2001 or e-mail: covent.garden@chanel.co.uk. For Spitalfields telephone: 020 7247 5513 or email: spitalfields@ chanel.co.uk. For Burlington Arcade telephone: 020 7629 7621 or email: burlington.arcade@ chanel.co.uk.

37 Chis_Jan17_CHANEL READER'S EVENT.indd 37

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:19

Forthcoming Auction Calendar January Art & Antiques featuring Books Auction: 7 January

February Art & Antiques

Auction: 4 February Entry Deadline: 24 January

March Decades of Design

Auction: 28 March Entry Deadline: 24 February

Fine Art

Auction: 28 & 29 March Entry Deadline: 24 February

April Islamic & Indian Arts TBC

Art & Antiques

Auction: 22 April Deadline: 10 April

May Modern & Contemporary Prints Auction: 6 May Deadline: 3 April

June Asian Arts

Auction: 27 June Entry Deadline: 31 May

Fine Art featuring Fine European Ceramics, Modern Sculpture & Antique Picture Frames

Start the New Year as a

MODERATE DRINKER...

Do you drink everyday?

Do you fear it controlling you? Instead of you controlling it?

Does your drinking become excessive when you socialise?

If any of these apply to you and you want to take back control and instead become a MODERATE DRINKER Contact me, Diana Powley on 0800 093 2024 Locally based in Dulwich I use a combination of NLP and Hypnotherapy.

And record hypnosis to CD for you to take home.

Auction: 27 & 28 June Entry Deadline: 31 May

We Break Habits Please contact us for further information or if you would like to speak to one of our specialists for a complimentary valuation

0800 093 2024 07886 863 923 www.dunehypnotherapy.co.uk

clientservices@roseberys.co.uk +44 (0) 20 8761 2522 70/76 Knights Hill, London, SE27 0JD

Diana Powley SQHP/MPNLP

www.roseberys.co.uk

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18/12/2014 15:54 22/12/2016 18:22

HEALTH & BEAUTY / PERFUME COLUMN

SCENTS & SENSIBILITY Uncover the narratives behind Josh Meyer's artisinal scents W o r d s L aw r e n c e R o u l l i e r W h i t e

I

n the realm of rare fragrance there are none more inventive than cult Portland, Oregonbased brand Imaginary Authors. The term Art Perfume is overused, yet in the case of Imaginary Authors’ founder, Josh Meyer, however, it is absolutely true. Not only are Josh’s scents without exception stunning, each comes with its own mise-en-scène synopsis - the book jacket blurb for a book that does not exist. The tales are tantalising and provocative, drawing you in and creating an emotional connection with the scent before you have even sampled it. Fragrance notes such as Arpora Night Market, Burnt Match and Orchard Dust are tell-tale signs that the perfumes themselves are equally extraordinary.

Slow Explosion was one of the best new scents of 2016, and is included here as part of our favourites from this inspiring perfume house.

Slow Explosion A City on Fire

Josh Meyer

The TALES are tantalising and PROVOCATIVE, drawing YOU in and, on the bartender’s urging, threw a dart at a world map tacked on the wall. She had never heard of Goa but knew immediately she needed to go. Three months later she was celebrating Hindu New Year at a tea garden high in the hills of Kerala, fireworks exploding below. She wrote of that night: “I was resuscitated by colour, redeemed by the vibrant unknown.” Her self-proclaimed “journey out of darkness,” dotted with unforgettable stories of night markets, river floats, and harrowing moped rides, inspired a generation of young Americans eager to buck the drudgery of ordinary life.

NOTES: Saffron, Rose Absolute, Leather, Apple, Benzoin, Cashmeran, Arpora Night Market

A CITY ON FIRE A brilliantly dark graphic novel, A City On Fire, is the story of two match-makers.

39 DUL_Jan17_Perfume.indd 39

Rupert literally fabricates matches in a factory on the waterfront while Frances writes a dating column for the city’s newspaper. Both are recluses who haunt the night’s shadows, observing clandestine activities from afar but never partaking. That changes one fortuitous evening when they are both witness to the same high-profile murder and are forced to come together as an unlikely vigilante pair in order to save their own names.

NOTES: Cade Oil, Spikenard, Cardamom, Clearwood, Dark Berries, Labdanum & Burnt Match

FALLING IN THE SEA

SLOW EXPLOSION In 1980, Gwen K. Vroomen quit a monotonous job, went to the corner bar

Falling in the Sea

Yesterday Haze

At the age of 19 Nica Galas published her first book, the autobiographical tome Falling into the Sea which chronicled her short and torrid love affair among the hot beaches and lemon trees in the Gulf of Naples. The breath-taking story opens with Nica and her girlfriends picking bunches of jasmine flower for boys while they cliff-jumped into the sea. An innocent first kiss erupts into an ardent summer entanglement which is cut short one moonlit night when her lover leaps into the dark abyss never to surface, leaving Nica naked on the cliffs screaming his name.

NOTES: Lemon, Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lychee, Tropical Flowers & Warm Sand

YESTERDAY HAZE Yesterday Haze, the subtly sinister followup to Lenora Blumberg’s acclaimed debut “Violet Disguise,” tells the story of a farmer’s wife who, after maintaining a decades-long affair with a crop duster pilot, decides to come clean to her husband. “The memory of him is a rifle in my mouth,” Blumberg wrote, “and the scent of fig its trigger.” Set in California’s tranquil and dusty San Joaquin Valley, the elaborate tale unfolds like a dream, delicately shifting perceptions like the colours of a dimming dusk.

NOTES: Fig, Iris, Cream, Tonka, Tree Bark, Walnut Bitters & Orchard Dust. u

● R ou lli er W h ite roullierwhite.com

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:25

Restaurant • Bar • 60‘s YéYé Open 7 days

Breakfast till 12pm

Square Mile Coffee • French Pastries • French Breads • Cooked Breakfasts

Lunch 12-3pm / Dinner 6:30-10pm

French Specialities • Tartes Flambées • French Wines

Bar midday - midnight Private room available NOW OPEN East Dulwich 52 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich SE22 8HJ 0203 441 2090

Crystal Palace 72 Westow Hill, London SE19 1SB 020 8616 3633

www.thefrenchhouse.co

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> KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL: HEALTHY COCKTAILS

p.42

NEW OPENINGS

p. 45

HOW TO HYGGE Kick-start January with the Danish appreciation of life’s simple pleasures.

Brontë Aurell’s new book ScandiKitchen: Fika & Hygge celebrates cosy days with friends, slowing down and taking the time to enjoy homemade treats. £16.99, Ryland Peters & Small; rylandpeters.com

41 Chis_Jan17_Food_Opener.indd 41

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:20

What to drink

3 of the Best

BAKERIES From biskies to éclairs to freshly baked cinnamon buns, we’ve whipped together the best in London pâtisserie’s for you to sink your teeth into

kitchen

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

By Julia Krupsk a

P E A R L & G R O OV E

Pearl & Groove are the go-to for sweet treats with a twist. Appeasing cravings in the healthiest of ways, ground almonds are used instead of regular flour and every creation is gluten free, forming a nutritious but still wholesomely delectable pudding.

341 Portobello Road, W10 pearlandgroove.com

NORDIC BAKERY

Indulge in a touch of hygge at the Nordic Bakery. This Scandinavian style coffee shop specialises in dark rye bread and cinnamon buns - offering a safe sanctuary to indulge in the two. Also home to the #MyQuietMoment hashtag, they encourage customers to upload a majorly instagrammable snapshot.

37b New Cavendish Street, W1G nordicbakery.com

Communal Feasting

MAITRE CHOUX

Maitre Choux is the chic pâtisserie specialising in éclairs and choux pastry. For those not in the know, this light pastry dough contains a soft, hollow inside with a golden, crispy outer shell. They make for the perfect gift box and with Michelin-starred pastry chef Joakim Prat hand-crafting each creation, they’re guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning of taste buds.

15 Harrington Rd, SW7 maitrechoux.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_Jan17_foodNotes.indd 42

The Floating Table

An series of communal feasts are popping up at Farmpolis Café at Greenwich Peninsula. Our pick is Andrew Clarke's, who’ll be serving a meal surrounded by plants rehomed from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The Jetty, SE10 farmopolis.com

42 23/12/2016 09:19

FOOD & DRINK / NOTES editor’s

PICK

ETHICAL TIPPLES Fa i r s p i r i t s

At your next dinner party, eschew the standard bottle of bubbly in favour of the world’s first quinoa vodka. Created by ethical spirit brand FAIR, the base of the drink is created from organic quinoa seeds grown on an altiplano plateau in Belize and has notes of almond milk and spices.

Filtered to perfection, the resulting spirit is as clean as your conscience will be. fairspirits.com

TO P 5

‘HEALTHY’ COCKTAILS

TAKE SHELTER Pop Brixton

Pop Brixton has winter-proofed its site, with the shipping container village now boasting gas heaters, a ‘Big Top’ tent and a colourful winter lounge with new lighting. Take shelter there for a roster of food and drink vendors, live jazz nights and free entry on the weekend.

49 Brixton Station Rd, SW9 8PQ popbrixton.org

editor’s

VEG GALORE

PICK

Bars are stirring superfoods and botanicals into drinks that are more forgiving on our waistlines. Here are five of our favourites...

01

FARMACY • Notting Hill Farmacy’s emphasis on clean indulgence carries into their bar, where the likes of flaxseed oil, cayenne pepper and even cannabis oil are stirred into juices and cocktails.

farmacylondon.com

02

FIRST AID BOX • Herne Hill At the Shrub & Shutter’s little brother bar in Herne Hill cocktails are ‘prescribed’ in intravenous fluid bags, as liquids in syringes or in botanical infusions. Check out the (nearly) holierthan-thou quinoa vodka cocktail…

firstaidbox2015.com

03

Spinach

On a January health kick? Spinach will quickly become your go-to lunch spot. The eat-well restaurant has a modern, vegcentric menu, and with the likes of tempura courgette flowers and Jerusalem artichoke & pork casserole on the menu, it could sway even the most hardened of carnivores.

161 Lordship Lane, SE22 spinach.london

THE LIDO CAFÉ • Herne Hill Brockwell Park’s The Lido Café is the perfect place to hole up on a cold January day, virtuous cocktail in hand. We recommend the Green Goddess, made from a base of Kamm & Sons

thelidocafe.co.uk

04

REDEMPTION BAR • Shoreditch Seek a little redemption from booze at this aptlynamed, alcohol-free bar. Our favourite sin-free tipple has to be the Beet-O-Tini: beetroot and orange juice, lime and coconut water.

UNDERGROUND DINING Basement Galley

If you’re looking for an alternative food event in January, look no further than the Underground Supper Club. This time the Basement Galley team are hosting ‘Chefs on the Tube’ - gourmet four-course tasting dinners hosted by London’s best culinary talent. Kicking off on the 19th of the month, you can expect convivial dining and flavours from around the world. basementgalley.com

redemptionbar.co.uk

05

TREDWELL’S • Covent Garden Tredwell’s caters to the health crowd with coldpressed cocktails, created with Bob’s Juicery.

Try the strength-giving Gimlet with gin, ginger, pineapple and wheatgrass and the Hail Mary – a more virtuous take on the classic.

tredwells.com

And for healthy cocktails at home…Try Rocktails detox-friendly drinks with low sugar, less than 90 calories per serving and botanical ingredients.

rocktails.co.uk

43 NH_Jan17_foodNotes.indd 43

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:19

J OA N N A ’ S Est. 1978

5 6 We s t o w H i l l Crystal Palace, SE19 1RX 020 8670 4052 w w w. j o a n n a s . u k . c o m JOANNAS APRIL.indd 1

@ J OA N N A S R E S T 22/03/2016 14:06

FOOD & DRINK / RESTAURANT REVIEW

Fresh, LIGHT but POWERFUL flavours were piled on top of PILLOWY soft FLAMEKISSED crust

Four Hundred Rabbits Evelina Road, SE15 Wo r d s H e l e n B r o w n

T

he good news for the residents of this SE neighbourhood is the trendy Crystal Palace pizza house, Four Hundred Rabbits, has opened a second outlet, joining Nunhead Green’s ever-smartening parade of shops. The eatery prides itself on being a place to meet, eat, drink and have fun; and that it is. The interior is typically tiled with an industrial-minimalist vibe and is populated by the expected clientele of families, twenty-something couples and students. An enticing range of craft beer is chalked up and the youthful staff are welcoming and efficient.

We started the evening with a round of Negronis - delicious and only £3.50, Nocellara olives and sweet and sour pickled cucumbers. So far, so very good.

Food-wise, the team use predominantly British ingredients, and the specials are

seasonal: charcuterie is from SE1-based Cannon & Cannon, and the beef is 35-day, dry-aged. Pizzas draw influence from Napoli, but with a twist. The dough is a big deal and is left to rise for 48 hours.

This, they claim, makes it easier to digest, as much of the work to break down the enzymes has already been done before you eat it. Gluten free bases are available, but the classic bases are really special so if you can, go for the real McCoy. Our pizzas were tasty and came at a very reasonable price point. The perfect pizza base is an ongoing point of contention - at 400 Rabbits they’re thin with a satisfying texture and chew.

A regular from the main menu featured courgettes, feta, mozzarella, and thyme.

Fresh, light but powerful flavours were piled on top of pillowy soft, flame kissed crust, alongside the gratifying crunch of pine nuts. My companion went for an anchovy, caper and onion-topped number which was packed a woody hit

45 NH_Jan17_Restaurant Review.indd 45

of rosemary - another great choice. The sauce is created with San Marzano Dop tomatoes, described as the best-tinned tomatoes money can buy, resulting in an amazing balance of acidity and sweetness.

It’s all about celebrating “fermentation and two of the best things it has given us, pizza and beer,” and the restaurant does an excellent job with both. The name, in case you were wondering, derives from mythology. Thousands of years ago the Aztecs worshipped a God of fermentation and a Goddess of alcohol. According to Aztec lore, these two deities got together, resulting in no fewer than Four Hundred Rabbits. Fast forward to the present day and without alcohol and fermentation, we wouldn’t have beer or pizza, and so, the restaurant was named.

We were handed the dessert menu, and though our stomachs said no, our hearts said yes. We shared a salted caramel brownie with a side of salted caramel gelato to match. Delightfully rich, sinfully chocolate-y and complimented wonderfully by the smooth and creamy gelato.

As our sweet tooth was satisfied and our drinks finished, we were happy to reflect on a lovely evening. 400 Rabbits really knows its stuff when it comes to flavours and making exceptional comfort food. u

● Fou r H u n dr ed Rabbits

Open from 5pm Tue – Fri and from 12pm at weekends. 143 Evelina Road, SE15; 400rabbits.co.uk

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:26

A World of Sophisticated Beauty Armani Hotel Dubai brings to life the “Stay with Armani� philosophy delivering a genuine home approach and a unique lifestyle experience where every need and desire is fulfilled for each guest individually. www.armanihoteldubai.com

ARMANI HOTEL.indd 1

13/10/2016 11:10

> PORTUGUAL: A BEACH HOLIDAY & CITY BREAK COMBINED p. 48 UK GETAWAY: EDINBURGH p. 53

HILL STATION A tram ride through Lisbon is probably the most fun you can have on public transport. If you can get on one, that is.

47 C&A_Jan17_Travel_Opener.indd 47

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:31

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX Cascais

Atlantic City Can’t decide between a beach holiday and a city break? This Portuguese family holiday takes in both Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

P

ortugal is having a moment. Portuguese tiles are on every interiors wish list, parties serve miniature pasteis de nata and vinho verde is an increasing presence on wine lists. And as a tourist destination, Portugal has been having more than just a moment for quite some time. Since the invention of the budget airline, Lisbon has been the European city of choice for visitors from all over the world, drawn to its manageable size, unspoilt stylish tiled exteriors and coastal location. No wonder that in 2016 it won several awards, including Best Short Break Destination in the Travel Media Awards, and Lonely Planet lists it as one of the world’s Top Ten Cities for Travel.

We are here with two children, who though relatively well-travelled, are still less keen on wandering the streets of a new city than they are on jumping into a pool. And getting out and jumping in again. Again and again until dinner time.

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

C&A_Jan17_Portugal.indd 48

Martinhal, Cascais

Lisbon COUNTS as one of the world’s TOP TEN CITIES for travel

So our trip is designed to take in both – to visit Lisbon, and to go to the beach and the pool too. We’re aware that our girls – aged seven and ten – are interested in new places and that as a family we’re ready to move on from purely pool-based holidays. This realization is laced with nostalgia, because nowhere is the passing of time more visible than on holidays, which, recurring at regular intervals, always remind us of their predecessors.

What was last year’s favourite paddling pool is this year’s babyish reject. So we are heading first to the pool, to Martinhal in Cascais, a family hotel and younger sibling to the established Martinhal in the Algarve, which is known as a haven for parents for its attention to every detail.

One of the first things we see on arriving is a bulbous mound emerging from the grass, like a strange crater, or half a huge ball. What is it? The children run towards it, kick off their sandals and take a leap. It’s a trampoline, of course, a landscaped one, raised and visibly bouncier than any other trampoline. It’s

48 22/12/2016 19:26

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

Lisbon

an unusual looking hotel, a low rise main building in the suburbs of Cascais, set in lush surroundings. It’s small and intimate, though also spread out and uncrowded.

Facilities for families – trampoline aside – include indoor and outdoor pools as well as kids’ clubs for all ages, well-thought out accommodation that includes a row of small, modernist houses with doubleheight living areas and sunny terraces, as well as standard interconnecting hotel rooms with lavish bathrooms. There’s even a menu of mushy dishes for babies.

Cascais itself is a beach town about half an hour’s drive from Lisbon. It’s

49 C&A_Jan17_Portugal.indd 49

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:26

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www.amityblinds.com www.amityblinds.com 22/12/2016 16:24

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

rival a summer weekend in Amsterdam.

Immediately we feel for anyone who uses the 28 for actual transport. The tuk-tuks, we discover, began a few years ago in response to this overcrowding, because they’re the only vehicles that can rival trams in negotiating the steep and winding landscape. Abandoning our tram ambition, we take a tuk-tuk ride that becomes a rollercoaster of excitement, a whistlestop tour of Lisbon’s highlights including the fantastic market. But ultimately the effect of tourism on this city's transport infrastructure leaves us feeling slightly uneasy.

We are staying at the Four Seasons, which not only has a rooftop running track that offers amazing views over Lisbon and its sunset, but also has a warm welcome for children. Of our two interconnecting rooms, one has been specially prepared with Disney duvet covers, welcome cookies and miniature dressing gowns and slippers (these create enormous excitement). There’s also a treasure hunt that takes kids through the hotel searching for clues. This Portuguese trip does that rare thing of combining grown-up pleasures with childish ones, keeping everyone happy. u

Above & right: Four Seasons Lisbon

a beautiful spot, a small town with a busy tourist trade and lots of sweeping beaches. Martinhal runs a regular taxi shuttle into town, so we fall into a lazy routine of heading to the town’s beaches after mornings by the pool. This satisfies everyone’s requirements in terms of relaxation and entertainment and after a few days we are ready to move on.

Lisbon is completely transformed since my last visit, which I remember clearly – the late 90s, the early days of budget airlines. Back then, we couldn’t have forseen what effect cheap flights and, later, Airbnb could have on a small city. Then, we got on a passing tram and toured the city’s famed seven hills, some of their impossibly steep winding streets

Cascais is a SMALL TOWN with a BUSY TOURIST trade and lots of SWEEPING BEACHES

inaccessible by car and narrow enough for washing to be strung overhead.

Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams are stylish and clattery, the older ones dating back to the early 20th century, and an actual ride on one is what our children are looking forward to most. But trying to recreate this tram journey today is no joke. Route 28 is reputed to take in the steepest hills but whenever one passes, it’s so crowded (with tourists) that there’s no chance of getting on. We head for the beginning of the line but quickly it dawns on us that we’re not the only ones. A swarm of tuktuks signposts what turns out to be the stop we’re after, only it is surrounded by hoards of tourists, more than enough to

51 C&A_Jan17_Portugal.indd 51

 Martinhal Lisbon Cascais Family Hotel Low season: from 178€ per night in a double room, with breakfast included. High Season: from 248€ per night in a double room, with breakfast included.  Martinhal Lisbon Cascais Family Resort Hotel, R. do Clube Casa 36, Quinta Da Marinha, 2750-002 Cascais Portugal +351 211 149 900 info@martinhal.com martinhal.com/cascais Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon Rua Rodrigo da Fonseca, 88, Lisboa, 1099-039, Portugal fourseasons.com/lisbon

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:26

ASPINALLFOUNDATION.ORG 0 1 3 0 3 2 6 4 6 4 7

PORT LYMPNE.indd 1 84227_PL_Treehouse_Hotel_Absolutely_Advert_Outlined_FAW.indd 1

20/12/2016 17:44 16:59

TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY WHAT IS IT?

T

he Knight Residence by Mansley is a block of five-star serviced apartments in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town in the shadow of the world-famous Edinburgh Castle and a stone’s throw from the city’s best shops and restaurants.

The one, two and three-bedroom apartments are designed as a homefrom-home whether you are visiting for work or leisure. The apartments have everything you need from wi-fi to a movie selection plus essentials such as fresh milk, breakfast cereals, bread, butter and tea and coffee all waiting for you. The concierge was brilliantly attentive, we had recommendations on where to dine and in the morning stepped straight from the front door and into a taxi without a moment’s wait. There is also private secure parking for guests that costs £9 a night with profits being used to plant native trees in Perthshire and the Cairngorms.

THE KNIGHT RESIDENCE BY MANSLEY EDINBURGH Wo r d s J a s m i n e R o b e r t s o n

THE CITY?

E

dinburgh is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, from the volcanic splendour of Arthur’s Seat to the cobbled Royal Mile running from the Castle all the way down to Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament, to the grandeur of 18th century New Town. It also a thoroughly modern European cultural destination.

There are galleries, museums, great restaurants and shops, from department stores such as Jenners and Harvey Nichols to great independent gift shops in places such as Broughton Street and Stockbridge.

THE ROOMS?

T

he rooms are all individually designed with a modern palette: modest greys and blues and glass fronted wardrobes. The beds were very comfortable and there was a large central sitting room with sizeable television.

The décor was functional rather than funky but the point of the apartments is not to sit around in them but get out and explore the city.

THE DAMAGE Room start at £139 for a two bedroom or £179 for a three bedroom apartment. To book please contact The Knight Residence by Mansley on 0131 622 8120, email edinburgh@bymansley.com or visit bymansley.com The Knight Residence by Mansley Serviced Apartments, 12 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9DJ

53 Chis_Dec16_UK_EDINBURGH.indd 53

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:27

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

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www.wharfside.co.uk WHARFSIDE JAN.indd 1 Absolutely Magazine December 2016.indd 1

29/11/2016 10:28 10:13

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

p. 56

JOIN THE CACTUS CLUB

p. 58

PAPER PATTERN Harlequin's Cranes in Flight wallpaper comes in a deep green as well as this calming peach – we round-up ten of our favourite wallpapers on page 56. harlequin.uk.com

55 Chis_Jan17_INTERIORS OPENER.indd 55

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:33

10 of the best

WA L L PA P E R S ALICIA DE COSTA

Modern ideas, designs and styles for your home

Toucan Wallpaper, £125 graduatecollection.co.uk

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

PIERRE FREY Pampa, £POA pierrefrey.com

COLE & SON

New Contemporary Woods, £POA cole-and-son.com

MURALS WALLPAPER

Marbelised papers, £25 per sq m muralswallpaper.com

DESIGNERS GUILD

Delahaye, £59 designersguild.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Dec16_Interiors_Notes.indd 56

Warm Up Castrads Castrads, the cast iron radiator experts, have opened their second London showroom in Chelsea. It's located handily next to Farrow & Ball, who supply contemporary colours and signature finishes to complement the radiators' stylish shapes. 247 Fulham Road, SW3; castrads.com

56 22/12/2016 19:33

HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES FERM LIVING

MOOMIN MANIA

Forest wallpaper, £65 nunido.co.uk

Adventures in Moominland The UK's first major exhibition dedicated to the Moomins continues at the Southbank Centre until April – and best of all, it brings a pop-up Moomins shop to the Festival Hall.

Here you'll find all Iittala's lovely ceramics featuring Tove Jansson's iconic illustrations. shop.southbankcentre.co.uk

must

HAVE editor’s

PICK WORLD ORDER

Future Maps The Future Mapping Company has been re-defining wall map design for over a decade.

Combining a modern aesthetic with age-old printing processes each map is made to the highest quality, celebrating the beauty in map data. They look stylish in any space. futuremaps.com

OSBORNE & LITTLE Pavilion Garden, £POA osborneandlittle.com

HARLEQUIN

Cranes in flight, £POA harlequin.uk.com

FARROW & BALL Arcade, £POA farrow-ball.com

GREENER CLEANER

Tincture New British brand Tincture creates all-natural cleaning products for the home. Using active botanical ingredients and essential oils, these beautifully packaged products look stylish and smell herby fresh while delivering impressive results. tincturelondon.com

COLOUR CODE

V& A Pa i n t The V&A has launched its new Classic Paint Collection, developed in close collaboration between Master Paintmakers and the V&A. The range features unique shades, using the finest pigments to achieve the highest quality paint product available in its category. vandapaint.com

57 CHIS_Dec16_Interiors_Notes.indd 57

FIRED EARTH

Alhambra Palace, £50 firedearth.com

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:34

Game of Thorns Cacti are everywhere. Absolutely meets Meg Sangster, whose newly formed Club Cactus is spreading the love by sending plants to subscribers every month Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_Jan17_cactus.indd 58

58 23/12/2016 09:14

HOME & INTERIORS / INTERVIEW succulent or house plant and, depending on your plan choice, botanical accessories.

No matter what plan you choose though, there are always little surprise extras!

PH: Your brand’s illustrations and aesthetics are lovely. Can you tell us about them?

MS: Before moving on to floristry, I studied fine art at uni and my boyfriend, Alex, is an illustrator, so we worked on this part of Club Cactus together. We live in a really creative environment where we’re constantly bouncing ideas off each other. We had a clear vision in mind of how we wanted everything to look and I’m so pleased me’ve managed to achieve that.

They’re the ultimate LOW

MAINTENANCE

house plant

PENDLE HARTE: What is the appeal of the cactus and why do you think they are having such a moment?

MEG SANGSTER: I think people like cactuses for a few reasons - for me, they’re a nice way to bring a bit of life and greenery into your home, plus they’re the ultimate low maintenance house plant. They’re great for busy people or even people who haven’t had much luck with plants in the past. Not to mention they look really cool!

PH: What have you learnt about plants through setting up the club?

MS: Since setting up the club I’ve learnt more about plant care and things like which plants like to live in which rooms. I’ve also had to try to work out ways to post plants successfully without upsetting them.

PH: Packaging a cactus must be tricky!

How does that work?

MS: It’s definitely not the easiest thing I’ve done! I’ve learnt now I just have to be firm with the plants, grab a pair of gardening gloves and just do it, wrap it up and then wrap it up again for good measure! We also use little card disks around the tops of the pots to help keep the soil firmly in place.

PH: But your club isn’t exclusively about cacti is it?

MS: We’re offering all sorts of botanical themed goodies from house plants, cactuses and succulents to plant accessories.

PH: What made you think of a delivery box subscription? Is your background in plants?

MS: I’m a trained florist and have always liked plants, and my mum has always been a keen gardener - so from an early age I’ve loved gardening and flowers and have always been around plants.

I also love giving and receiving beautifully packaged presents and our service sort of feels like getting gifts through the post!

PH: What’s next for Club Cactus?

MS: In addition to the subscription boxes, we’re currently working on an online shop, where you’ll be able to buy a larger selection of houseplants, plus lots of botanical themed goodies. So if there was something you really loved from your box one month you’ll be able to re-purchase it individually. We’ve also had lots of interest from the US and Canada, where we unfortunately can’t post plants, but everything else from the web shop will be available to them. ◆

PH: What will be in the boxes?

MS: Well the specifics are a surprise! It will vary from month to month, but you can expect a potted plant - be it a cactus,

clubcactus.co.uk

59 Chis_Jan17_cactus.indd 59

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 09:15

Vertical - Open morning text - 1

Independent co-educational Pre-Prep & Pre-School 2–7 years – founded 1976 – member ISA

Dedicated to creating a rich and happy learning experience for your child

September 2017 admissions Parents considering Pre-Reception (the year the child becomes four years old) or Reception admission should register as soon as possible.

Tours available regularly by appointment.

Main entry 2+, 3+ and 4+.

Children learning piano perform better academically in school

We look forward to hearing from you!

www.hernehillschool.co.uk enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

_DUL_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 4

We want to help you give your child the advantage

Great pianos, great deals, great service

CALL JULIAN ON 020 3645 3930 FOR MORE INFORMATION JULIAN@PIANOLOBBY.CO.UK

WWW.PIANOLOBBY.CO.UK

PIANO LOBBY SEPT.02.indd 1

27/08/2015 16:57

22/12/2016 18:22

> SMALL TALK: LITTLE LOAFERS & PLUSH PLAY-TENTS

p. 62

EDUCATION: GET POLITICAL

p. 65

CARNIVAL COOL Singapore-based label Gardner & The Gang has opted for a carnival theme for winter, making for a collection of wearable pieces in fun, harlequinesque patterns and colours. harrods.com

61 Chis_Jan17_KIDS OPENER.indd 61

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:30

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES

B R A N D FO C U S

DREAM TEAM Wo l f & R i t a x J C d e C a s t e l b a j a c Spring style for littles doesn’t come cuter than this – a collaborative capsule of contemporary pieces featuring arty prints and a fun bohemian aesthetic. Très chic.

Available at Scandimini.co.uk

JACADI Wo r d s H E L E N B A R O N

N

SMALL TALK The launch of Little Loafers and a play-tent of one’s own

SLUMBER PARTY Sleepy Doe Snuggle alert: this new label makes beautiful sleepwear and bedlinen for little ones and their mamas. Choose from a range of tasteful, print-based designs.

From £24; sleepydoe.com

Fleece Booties, £29; jacadi.com

PEAK CONDITION

PLAYING HOUSE

Loaf ¢ Loaf’s new Little Loafers home furnishings and accessories collection offers lots of Scandi-style quirk and character – we love this mountain-themed bedroom in all its pioneering glory. Prices vary. u

Djeco ¢ This easy-to-assemble play-tent from Djeco is ideal for indoor camp-outs, with a bright harlequin design and roll-up door. Littles will love having a den of their own. u £49.99; crafts4kids.co.uk

loaf.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Jan17_KIDS NOTES.indd 62

o one does classic like Jacadi does classic.

Founded in 1976, such was the demand for the French brand’s children’s clothing that within two decades it had expanded as far west as Los Angeles and as far east as Taiwan. The secret formula?

High-end garments designed with timeless and traditional charm.

Simply put, Jacadi makes the kind of clothing that crosses the boundaries of intergenerational taste, eliciting sighs of delight and approval from great-grandmas and trend-conscious first-time mamas alike.

Highlights from the AW16 collections include schoolwearinspired day dresses in blue gingham check, cute workshirts in steely blue for little boys and a range of nautical sweaters emblazoned with fun insignia.

Our pick for babies is a pair of white, fleece-lined newborn booties (pictured), which are sure to keep little toes toasty. ◆

62 23/12/2016 09:28

Independent co-educational Pre-Prep & Pre-School 2–7 years – founded 1976 – member ISA

The perfect setting for early schooling • Largest independent Pre-School and Pre-Prep in the UK focusing on 2–7 year olds • Experts in the critical transition from play based to more structured learning • Largest feeder into the reputable local Dulwich schools • Uniquely happy and friendly ethos and atmosphere • Wide range of after school clubs and wrap-around care from 8am–4.45/6pm depending on the year group • Main entry into Kindergarten at 2+ and Reception at 4+ www.hernehillschool.co.uk enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336

Dedicated to creating a rich and happy learning experience for your child

The Old Vicarage, 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY

zest ad AUG 2016:Layout 1

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HH_H.indd 1

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Children’s clothing Hand made with love Independent Co-educational 3-11 years. Founded 1942. ISA & IAPS

Inspiring Brilliant Futures

Open Morning

Thursday 26th January 9.30-11am Wednesday 8th March 9.30-11am Tours of the school are held on Tuesday mornings Bursaries available

020-8670 5865 Visit us at 147 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0LN Shop online www.goodforbabies.co.uk

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email: admissions@rosemeadprepschool.org.uk www.rosemeadprepschool.org.uk

22/12/2016 18:22

TH E N EW A P P FOR A NEW BRE E D OF MAMAS

Mama IN E TH E M AG AZ

MU MS FO R ST YL ISH

ISSUE FIVE | £

DECEMB NOVEMBER /

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WONDER WOOL The cutest winter

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AS TM HRISAW C AYS IN STYLISH GET

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

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blogging At home withLou d Girl superstar Live

Packed full of news, views and on-trend lifestyle content, Absolutely Mama is firmly focused on what mums really think, feel, want and need. The magazine covers everything from the latest fashion and beauty to nutrition, technology and travel for families, and features contributions from some of Britain’s foremost parenting experts and baby brands - not to mention some truly inspirational mamas.

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

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Absolutely Mama Magazine

1

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14/12/2016 16:40

No cold.

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DON’T LET THE WINTER WIN.

Join in January and get the joining fee off, plus one month free.

CALL US TODAY ON 0208 613 6500 SWIMMING, ROCK CLIMBING, GROUP EXERCISE, YOGA, FOOTBALL, TENNIS, NETBALL, TRAMPOLINING, BADMINTON, HOCKEY, SQUASH, TWO FULLY-EQUIPPED GYMS AND A RANGE OF COURSES

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In Dulwich, for Everyone In Dulwich, for Everyone

16/12/2015 09:36

22/12/2016 18:22

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

Playground Politics It’s more important than ever to engage young people with democracy. And where better to start than parliament itself?

Wo r d s A m a n d a C o n s ta n c e

P

ost-Brexit and Trump it has never been more important to engage young people in politics and to make them feel that they have a stake in their future. As Vivienne Durham, former super-head and director of the school’s advisory service at Enjoy Education says: “Today’s children will be the voters and politicians of tomorrow and they can already see the mistakes being made by the adult generation. Most teenagers are naturally politically responsive – they question and expect more from the society they see around them.” But how do you engage young people? For parents and teachers alike, Parliament itself is a good place to start.

The Parliament Education Service organises school visits, outreach services and has a wide range of online resources.

Last November it launched its first ever Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) with Future Learn. ‘An introduction to the UK parliament’ involves two hours study per week for three weeks and is open to all to learn more about how laws are made, the differences between Parliament and Government and the work of Government itself.

The Education Service website has a huge array of films, games and multi-media resources, catering for all Key Stages. These range from ‘Parliament, laws and you’ aimed at KS1 to ‘Lawmaking in the House of Lords, the journey of a bill’ for KS3-5. There are films on ‘What is the House of Commons?’ and ‘What is the House of Lords?’, plus an Election Toolkit and research tools such as a World War I source pack or information on the suffragettes. You can even play ‘MP for a week’, an interactive game where the

MP for a week is

AN INTERACTIVE game WHERE THE PLAYER must make DAILY DECISIONS

player must make the daily decisions and choices of an MP. Schools can also arrange visits to Parliament. There is a new education centre at Westminster, complete with 360˚ virtual reality upper and lower chambers. Visitors will also tour the House of Commons, Lords and Westminster Abbey and have a workshop. If your local MP is available, they will also come and see you.

If you can’t get to Parliament, why not get Parliament to come to you? A team of outreach officers visits primary and senior

65 Chis_Jan17_Education.indd 65

schools to inspire youngsters and you can even book member of the Lords and Commons to pay your school a visit.

The ‘Peers in Schools’ programme for 14 to 18 year-olds started in 2007, and since then peers have talked about their work to more than 50,000 children. Or you can Skype the Speaker of the House. In a new initiative, it’s now possible for your school to have a live Q&A session with the RT Hon Jon Bercow MP. Young people who really want to get involved can take part in the UK Youth Parliament. This offers 11-18 year-olds the opportunity to make their voices heard. Its 369 members are elected from all regions in the country. They organise campaigns and events in a bid to influence decision-makers around the issues that matter to people of their age. Every year in November, during Parliament Week, the MYPs (members of youth parliament) hold a debate in the House of Commons chamber on issues that concern them. Political experience doesn’t get more real than that.

A great way to get children enthused in politics and public speaking is to set up a debating society at school or to hold mock elections. Vivienne Durham said: “The enthusiasm and political interest which students invested in a school mock election on the day of the General Election had to be seen to be believed - it’s great!” ◆

 For more information visit parliament.uk/education or email educationoutreach@parliament.uk Bookings for summer term 2017 visits open on 13 January 2017 at 8:30am on 020 7219 4496.

For information on the UK Youth Parliament ukyouthparliament.org.uk

absolutely.london

22/12/2016 19:29

“It’s fine.

The heart wants what the heart wants.

Discover rural homes with sea views using keyword search.

PL.indd 1

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online.”

PL.indd 2

11/07/2016 15:19

Jennings-Bramly Furniture Ltd Beautiful furniture dovetailed to your needs Drawing rooms Dining rooms Bedrooms Kitchens Libraries Studies

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AO ARCHITECTURE.indd 1 14/12/2015 11:47

21/10/2015 12:47 22/12/2016 18:25

PROPERTY NEWS

p.74

NIGEL LEWIS: FAMOUS PLACES

SOUTH STREET SE10

ÂŁ1,100,000

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

p.82

charming and beautifully presented three bedroom, two reception period terraced house located in West Greenwich. The property has been lovingly improved throughout.Accommodation comprises three double bedrooms, a luxury family bathroom, two well proportioned reception rooms, a large kitchen/diner and a guest WC, and a beautifully landscaped private rear garden. The decor throughout makes the most of the natural light, and blends the period charm, high specification fixtures and fittings and user friendly layout. u

A

GREENWICH 020 8858 9986

69 PFC_GR_Jan17.indd 69

p.78

residential.jll.co.uk absolutely.london

23/12/2016 10:12

Completely at home in South East London.

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

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

Our dedicated South East London branches include • Hayes • Blackheath • Lee • Bromley • West Wickham • Catford • Chislehurst

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Southborough Lane, Bromley, BR2 £1,500,000 Chislehurst 020 8285 9900 chislehurst.sales@kfh.co.uk

KFHBG.indd 2 12.16 KFH Blackheath and Greenwich.indd 2

Occupying a large, private plot and set behind gates is this detached home that boasts over 4,300 sq ft of accommodation, a large detached garage, garden and ample parking.

This unique and beautiful home is located close to Bromley Common, as well as several local schools.

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Six bedrooms Five bathrooms Three storeys Detached, double storey garage Grand entrance and staircase Freehold EPC rating E

28/11/2016 08:48 18:38 24/11/2016

Keston BR2 Five bedroom bespoke home, offering approximately 4,000 sq ft of versatile family living space.

£1,695,000 F/H

Five bedrooms

Four bathrooms

Three receptions

EER E

Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Bromley BR1

Shoreham TN14

Located on its own private cul-de-sac, is this charming five double bedroom detached family home.

Detached residence in the centre of Shoreham, offering approximately 3,916 sq ft of accommodation.

£1,250,000 F/H

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Five bedrooms

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Contact Bromley 020 8315 5544

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Contact Beckenham 020 8663 4433

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

West Wickham BR4 Five bedroom detached family home, ideally situated for West Wickham mainline station (0.8 miles).

£999,995 F/H

Five bedrooms

Two bathrooms

Two receptions

EER E

Contact West Wickham 020 8432 7373

langfordrussell.co.uk LANGFORD RUSSELL.indd 2

19/12/2016 15:17

Property ROUND UP The inside scoop in your area

5 MINUTES WITH

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS AREA?

I have been working in the area for over two years, having relocated from East Dulwich in 2015. I love it so much that I bought here myself.

WHAT IS YOUR ETHOS?

LAURA WATSON Sales Assistant Manager

I aim to provide exceptional customer service with complete honesty and professionalism. I always strive to achieve the best price for clients from the most financially stable buyer.

KFH

L E T/ S O L D

asmin Forrester comments: “We have recently let several luxury apartments in the newly completed Arora Tower, and it seems that the emphasis is certainly on luxury finishes at surprisingly affordable prices in the Greenwich rental market at the moment. This particular development is the first of its kind in the area, as all the apartments benefit from the facilities of the neighbouring five-star InterContinental hotel, including

Y

AURORA TOWER SE10

£3,875

pcm

YASMIN FORRESTER Associate Director, Residential Lettings JLL Greenwich

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WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PROPERTIES RIGHT NOW? I EXPECT A STEADY MARKET, WITH AN INCREASE IN BUYERS ENSURING HEALTHY SALE LEVELS

Elmbank, Camden Park Road. A Grade II listed detached home with over 4,900 sq ft.

MARKET PREDICTIONS?

I expect a steady market, with an increase in buyers ensuring healthy sales levels. There will be pent up demand from those who hung back from buying in 2016. u KFH Chislehurst, 020 3792 4488; kfh.co.uk

the pool, spa and gym. This part of London has long been popular with people who work in the City or Canary Wharf, and it’s likely we’re seeing an upsurge in interest from employees of global companies deciding to hold fire on buying property until confidence is fully restored in the sales market and Brexit is out of the way.” u JLL

Greenwich, 020 8858 9986

residential.jll.co.uk

74 23/12/2016 10:15

PROPERTY / NEWS AG E N T O N D E S I G N

NEWS

ED PHILLIPS

Lettings Managing Director

COLERAINE ROAD SE3

£1,750,000

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his Victorian villa is set within the Westcombe Park Conservation Area in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. The exterior brickwork has been restored to show the fine yellow stock with red brick dressing in its original glory. The pitched slate roof and large bay windows make this an imposing residence which is entered through a recessed doorway set within an elegant brick arch. The five bedroom property is set over three floors, plus a large cellar and utility room in the basement.

The bedroom and two bathrooms are located on the two upper levels and the ground floor has a bathroom and two large reception rooms with high ceilings which are so typical of the quality Victorian residence. The modern, stylish kitchen is set in an extension to the original property and opens onto a patio area and large garden. u

the exterior brickwork has been restored... dressing in its original glory JLL Residential Sales, Blackheath, 020 8712 6703; residential.jll.co.uk

NEW BUILD

MANOR WAY BR3

£995,000 his exclusive collection of three bedroom houses offer exceptional living and entertaining space while boasting a peaceful setting in a lovely gated development.

Situated on one of the most

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F E AT U R E P R O P E R T Y

GUIBAL ROAD SE12

£1,350,000 n extremely spacious, detached family home found on one of Lee’s premier roads. Set behind gates, and originally a more modest 1930’s house, the property has been significantly extended more recently and now measures over 3,200 sq ft. The accommodation is comprised of seven bedrooms, four reception rooms, a contemporary kitchen/dining room, five bathrooms and

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prestigious roads in the heart of Beckenham, this stunning brand new gated development features two fantastic three bedroom houses, combining bright open-plan living space with exceptional contemporary interiors, all finished to the highest standard with high-specification fixtures and fittings throughout. u

Foxtons New Homes, 020 7973 2020; foxtons.co.uk

further WC. The rooms are particularly versatile with the current arrangement offering a well-equipped gymnasium in the garden room. There are two separate patio areas which would make fantastic entertainment spaces, a feature pond and a garden. u

Hamptons Blackheath, 020 8297 1697

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Foxtons

andlords and tenants should expect current market dynamics to continue into 2017. With sales market ambiguity prompting more homeowners to temporarily rent their properties and several largescale rental developments reaching completion, increased supply will give tenants a level of choice not seen for many years. Improved transport links to central London will fuel interest in Zones 3-6, while build-to-rent schemes

We expect investors to achieve doubledigit returns with features such as leisure facilities, shared communal spaces and manned reception desks will further open up opportunity for renters.

Landlords could be forgiven for being uncertain about the short-term impact of increased competition and changes in buy-to-let tax relief scheduled for April 2017, but the longterm outlook remains healthy.

London’s status as a global capital of finance, media and technology means capital appreciation will endure and gross rental yields will continue to cover financing costs. We expect investors to achieve double-digit returns through the cycle. Studios and one-bedroom flats will still perform best in terms of returns per square foot, with this holding true for both the lettings and sales markets.” u Foxtons Chiswick Headquarters, 020 7893 6000; foxtons.co.uk

hamptons.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT ON GREENWICH PROPERTIES LET

BY PROPERTY TYPE

1 BEDROOM FLAT

2 BEDROOM FLAT

3+ BEDROOM FLAT

HOUSE

38% 46% 10% 6%

Data provided by LonRes

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absolutely.london

23/12/2016 10:16

Cambridge Drive SE12 An immaculately presented detached family home located in a sought after location close to Colfes School.

Price £850,000 Freehold Three bedrooms

Two bathrooms

One reception

EER E

Lee Office 020 8852 8633

Kidbrooke Park Road SE3 Impressive, well presented and extended family house with large garden and huge double garage.

Price £1,425,000 Freehold Four bedrooms

Three bathrooms

Three receptions

EER D

Blackheath Village Office 020 8318 1311

The Property Experts

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johnpayne.com

@johnpayne

19/12/2016 15:21

Ashburnham Place SE10

Park Vista SE10

A charming three storey end-of-terrace Victorian house retaining many original features.

Beautifully presented four storey Grade II listed Georgian house with direct views into Greenwich Park.

Guide Price £1,150,000 Freehold

Guide Price £1,595,000 Freehold

Three bedrooms

Two bathrooms

Three bedrooms

Two bathrooms

One reception

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Two receptions

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East Greenwich Office 020 3846 1414

West Greenwich Office 020 8858 9911

Glenluce Road SE3 Gorgeous top floor conversion flat on a sought after road, just a short walk to Westcombe Park station.

Price £599,995 Leasehold Two bedrooms

One bathroom

One reception

EER E

Blackheath Standard Office 020 8858 6101

40 YEARS IN PROPERTY

JOHN PAYNE.indd 2

Blackheath Village Blackheath Standard Greenwich (West) Greenwich (East) Lee

020 8318 1311 020 8858 6101 020 8858 9911 020 3846 1414 020 8852 8633

19/12/2016 15:22

STING’S FORMER MATERIAL WORLD

NIGEL LEWIS

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

MCQUEEN’S FORMER FASHIONABLE ADDRESS

he late Alexander McQueen is best known for his five-year stint heading up Givenchy as well as his celebrity friends including Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, David Bowie and even Prince Charles.

Before his suicide in 2010 such starry connections and his prestigious talents earned him substantial wealth and in 2009 he bought a large part of a townhouse in Dunraven Road, Mayfair for £2.52 million which, at the time of his death, he was doing up while he lived around the corner in a rented flat. Six years on and the top storeys have finally been finished.

The three-bedroom duplex flat by interior designer Paul Davies is on the market for £8.5 million with joint agents Wetherell (020 7529 5566) and Knight Frank (020 74899 1012). The property comes with portraits of both McQueen and his friend Esabella Blow as well as fashion shots of McQueen’s clothing plus there are references to his favourite skull motif all over the duplex including within several wall mounted mirrors. u

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his death in 1965. The road was and remains a fashionable place to live and is a short walk from both the Royal Albert Hall and Hyde Park. And the Churchills are not the only famous residents to have enjoyed its brownstone mansion blocks and Victorian villas. The founder of the Scouts, Lord Baden Powell lived on the street as did writer Virginia Woolf and more recently broadcaster Nigella Lawson. The Churchills former home at No.28 is now for sale through agent Strutt & Parker (020 7313 8408) for £23 million and comes with seven bedrooms, a 55ft back garden, four reception rooms, a wine cellar and three bathrooms. u

ost people in relationships can recollect where they first met their partner and for Sting and his wife Trudie Styler, it was a stucco-fronted square in Bayswater. The pair lived there during the late 1970s in separate apartments on Leinster Square but it wasn’t until a hot summer’s day in 1977 that Trudi spotted him walking down the street. Sting was then already married with a small boy, had green hair and The Police had only just formed – but just four years later they were an item. Leinster Square is a shadow of its former self. Once a hangout for struggling musicians and actors, nowadays only City professionals can afford it. Next door to Sting’s old basement flat developer Alchemi Group is restoring five properties at 13-19 Leinster Square, a large portion of the street. The development will include 15 lateral and triplex apartments with either three or four bedrooms and they are now available to buy off-plan. Prices start at £5.995m. Leinster Square, like many private squares of its kind in the capital, also has a residentsonly garden at its centre. This is currently also being renovated by Alchemi Group and designed in collaboration with architects TateHindle. u For more details call 020 7499 3881 or visit alchemigroup.com.

M

£8.5 Million

WHERE CHURCHILL WENT AFTER THE WAR

hen Winston Churchill was ejected from power following the 1945 General Election he and his wife Clementine needed a home after five years spent at No.10 while he was wartime Prime Minister. He bought this home on Hyde Park Gate in London which, except for his four-year return to power in 1950, they called home until

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PROPERTY / STAR HOMES Prices start at

£5.9

£23

Million

Million

The Churchills are not the only famous residents to have enjoyed its mansion blocks PUB’S STARRING ROLE IN MANY MOVIES

s locations go this former pub in Notting Hill has proved unusually popular with movie and TV drama producers. It was converted into flats and offices during the late 1980s but during its beer serving days the boozer feature in 1951 film The Lavender Mob starring Alec Guiness, 1970s TV series The Sweeney, the 1977 film The Squeeze starring Stacy Keach and the 1986 Sex Pistols movie Sid and Nancy. But the pub is best

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known for its appearance in the defining movie of the 1970s, Quadrophenia starring Leslie Ash, Sting, Raymond Winstone, Toya Wilcox, Michael Elphick and Timothy Spall. In a famous scene, mod Spider played by Gary Shail is attacked by rockers when his scooter breaks down outside the pub. The area is a bit more genteel now. A fourbedroom, three-bathroom apartment within the building is for sale at £1.4 million through agent Dexters (020 7243 4500) featuring a huge reception room, dining room, open plan kitchen and a roof terrace. u

Million

GINGER ALE, ANYONE? C

hris Evan’s short tenure at Top Gear this year ended despite his efforts to give it

£1.15 Million

79 Chis_Jan16_famousplaces.indd 79

£1.4

his ‘best shot’ although the ever-ebullient Evans is unlikely to crying into his beer. He’s got famous friends to commiserate with including Gary Barlow, Tom Jones and Paloma Faith, all of whom drink with the Radio 2 DJ at his local pub in Surrey, The Mulberry. He owns it jointly with manager Camilla Hensen after the pair bought it in the village of Chiddingfold ten years ago.

But Evans has clearly tired of being a landlord. The freehold is now for sale for £1.15 million through agent Fleurets.com and comes with a restaurant, lounge bar, large patio, verandas on three sides, three en-suite B&B rooms and a four-bedroom home for the landlord or lady to live in. At the height of his fame Evans used the millions he pocketed from the sale of Virgin Radio to buy up several pubs, including The Mulberry. Then in 2007 he bought the Lickhold Inn near Midhurst in West Sussex for £1 million and, in the same year, the Newbridge Inn at Tredunnock, near Usk in Wales, for £900,000. u

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 10:19

Spice Quay Heights, Shad Thames, SE1 A superb 1 bedroom apartment for sale in Shad Thames, SE1 A superb 1 bedroom apartment in a popular Shad Thames building. Located on the sixth floor with glorious views over Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and the Thames, this spacious apartment provides natural light with great river views as well as a decked terrace. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 reception room, 24 concierge, lift, shower room.

EPC:C

Guide price: £1,325,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/towerbridge towerbridge@knightfrank.com 020 7861 5249

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/POD161004

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Absolutely SE

22/12/2016 14:34

21/12/2016 12:33:32

Balmoral House, One Tower Bridge SE1 A light and bright one bedroom apartment On the fourth floor, this corner plot apartment has a dual aspect reception room with floor to ceiling windows, contemporary minimalist kitchen and has been tastefully finished throughout with neutral tones. 1 double bedroom, 1 en suite bathroom, dressing area, reception room, kitchen/dining area and balcony. EPC:B. Approximately 72.58 sq m (781 sq ft).

Guide price: £700 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk/towerbridge towerbridge@knightfrank.com 020 3328 6549

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/TBQ253782

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Absolutely SE December Lettings

22/12/2016 14:34

22/12/2016 14:26:37

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS

Ed Ogden SALES MANAG ER Daisy Lets & Sales

REBECCA NOONAN

I

get bored with articles about estate agents and how fabulous they are so I won’t indulge in a piece about me instead I want to look at some of the interesting facts from the housing market this year and some of the predictions for 2017 and beyond.

Most of the statistics I am using are from Savills Residential Property Focus for the last quarter of 2016 and it makes for interesting reading.

Of the total number of sales transactions for this year these are the percentages I think the following categories would have achieved: First-time buyers with mortgage:26% Home buyers with mortgage:38% Buy to let with mortgage:22% Cash buyers:14% Infact First-time buyers with mortgage:26% Home buyers with mortgage29% Buy to let with mortgage:10% Cash buyers:35% Yes cash buyers accounted for the majority {35%} of ALL sales this year - is that not astonishing?

This figure is 17% above the 5 year pre-crunch and shows 40% growth over the last 5 years.

Why is this happening? Savills reckon it is due to greater pension

Brexit is complicating what is the later stages of the house market cycle freedom combined with increased downsizing but I think there is also the increase of enquiries from overseas investors as well. Since the referendum there has been a 50% jump in enquiries by foreign buyers tempted by a weaker pound and price drops.

On a more sober note Savills forecast that ALL these categories will drop by an average of 19% until 2018 and then two of them will go up and two continue to go down. Want to have another go at predicting which?

Well the answer is first-time buyers & home movers to go up {8% & 6%} and buy-to-let & cash buyers to go down; by 25% & 5 % respectively.

An overview suggests that Brexit is complicating what is the later stages of the house market cycle and we will see reduced house prices as the economy slows . This, combined with higher interest rates, suggests that London & the South-East will bear

the brunt of such pressures.

Switching to the rental market we have a rosier outlook. Savills see a more stable environment as rental values are more connected with incomes and although rental growth will be lower in 2017 renting is the only real option for younger households.

They see a growth of 24-25% in values next year and yet this picture gets skewed when we see many London boroughs actively discouraging sharers from renting by making landlords apply for selective HMO’s for numbers of 3 or more non-related tenants or by marking out areas where no matter the size of the property the Landlord has to get a licence.

Yet because of high rental prices in London, rental price stability, or even growth, has to be provided by increased numbers of sharers!

In conclusion, next year the housing market looks somewhat bleak for London & the South – East.But we know demand is always here, so we put on a brave face and march on in the face of local and Government regulations and taxes. A word to the wise though: if you are a seller or landlord looking to do business in 2017 then please go easy on us estate agents as we are trying to do our best! u

DAISY LETS & SALES / East Dulwich, 020 8229 9035 / daisysales.uk

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PROPERTY / PROFILE

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23/12/2016 10:18

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31/10/2016 17:29

NIGEL LEWIS

OFFICE POLITICS

The need for more homes in London plus more relaxed planning laws are spurring on developers to turn more and more offices into homes, reports Nigel Lewis

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few months ago I walked past an office block in Clerkenwell where I’d worked during the 1990s and to my surprise it had a Savills’ residential For Sale sign hanging outside it.

It turns out that the care-worn Art Deco offices I once toiled in are now a set of top-notch apartments which, since my walk-by, have all sold for between £2m and £4.5m.

This is happening all over London.

Recent government house building figures show an 11% jump in the number of new homes, an increase that the figures show was down to the number of former industrial and office workplaces being in turned into apartments.

The largest one-off conversion in London is Delta Point in Croydon town centre, which has turned 29,000 sq m of former office space into 348 new homes. Similarly large schemes have also been given the go-ahead in eleven other London borough including, most notably, Richmond, Barnet, Islington, Camden and Lambeth. This deluge of office conversion is largely down to planning changes which in 2013 temporarily relaxed ‘permitted development rights’ (or PDR) regulations for offices being turned into residential.

These rules have just been made permanent, it was revealed recently, so the surge in office conversions is likely to continue with thousands of new homes be built within former offices next year. It’s a trend that politicians are desperate to

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encourage as they try to solve the housing crisis. “We promised to turbo-charge housebuilding so more people can have the security of their own home, and that is exactly what we are doing with the biggest increase in the number of new homes in many years,” said Housing Minister Gavin Barwell recently.

But the huge increase in office to residential conversions does not come without controversy.

Jane Duncan, president of the Royal Institute of British architects says she is “concerned that office-toresidential conversion is occurring without proper oversight by local authorities, and that as a result homes are being delivered at a

“It’s a trend that politicians are desperate to encourage as they try to solve the housing crisis” standard which would otherwise be deemed totally unacceptable”.

Developers, as you might imagine, disagree and are getting stuck in to this emerging new sector. “The impact of the revision of permitted development in England is already being felt,” says Jean Liggett, MD of Properties of the World.

“Developers are using their imaginations about how to transform some of the country’s beautiful but neglected buildings into stylish, modern apartments, breathing new life into them while preserving their original architectural appeal.” Hossein Abedinzadeh, founder of developer MHA London, is currently busy converting a former Brutalist office block on Old Street into flats and says office spaces can make good, affordable housing. “We had an opportunity here to take a tired, run-down office block and turn it into a trophy building to demonstrate our capability to construct and deliver something extraordinary,” he says.

The building, formerly called Barbican House and until 2010 let to accountants Franks LLP for

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PROPERTY /FEATURE

£164,000 a year, was a five-storey block that has been essentially refaced with a modern skin that will render it almost unrecognisable. 30 Old Street will have shops on the ground floor but also contain eight two- and three-bedroom luxury apartments starting at £1.255 million.

A more unusual example of an office conversion can be found in Westbourne Grove in Maida Vale.

It’s a large Grade II listed police station built in 1911 that’s being converted into 25 apartments by developer Redrow.

It’s famous because the station is where Russell Brand was taken after being arrested during the 2001 May Day riots in central London.

But more typical of the office

redevelopments you find in central London is Beau House on Jermyn Street in St James’s. It’s named after Beau Brummell, the 18th century fashion icon whose statue stands on the street. The former offices at the property, will soon contain eight apartments from developer Dukelease which has partnered with interior designer Oliver Burns for the project.

But all this conversion activity has also been blamed on a reduced supply of office space in London.

Ask anyone who has recently tried to find an office in London and you’ll soon hear tales of months spent searching for available space, and sky-high rents.

Nicky Gavron, chair of the London Assembly Planning Committee says:

87 Chis_Jan16_OFFICE CONVERSIONS 2.indd 87

“Employment space is vulnerable to developers looking to make a quick buck by converting it to housing.

“It’s not as though London doesn’t have plenty of space for houses – it doesn’t need to sacrifice employment space. Doing so threatens the businesses and jobs London needs to grow.” But the desperate need for homes in London is spurring on office conversions regardless of these concerns. London Councils, the organisation which presents the capital’s 32 boroughs and the City of London, says that over the past three years at least 830,000 sq m of office floor space has been converted into 16,600 homes in 2,639 developments. And my old office was probably one of them. u

absolutely.london

23/12/2016 10:20

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

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

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

To find out more visit our website

theestas.com

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

Superb apartments in a riverside location Look no further than Iverna Quay, where you will find everything you could possibly want. Finished to the highest contemporary standard, the development is situated in an impressive location behind the Greenwich Yacht Club with some apartments overlooking the River Thames.

Prices from £425,000 to £995,000 London Help to Buy* is available on apartments with a purchase price up to £600,000

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020 8305 2712 www.gmv.london The Village Square, West Parkside, London SE10 0BD Marketing Suite & Show Apartments open daily 10am-5pm Greenwich Millennium Village is a joint venture between Countryside and Taylor Wimpey in association with the Mayor of London.

*London Help to Buy subject to terms and conditions, please ask a Sales Consultant for more details. Prices and information corrrect at time of going to print. November 2016.

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25/11/2016 17/11/2016 17:54 17:08

PROPERTY / INTERVIEW NIGEL LEWIS

THE STAR-CITECT Zac Monro, TV’s no-nonsense architect talks conversions, sustaibability and Grand Designs.

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to buy a home to convert is that they should find the worst, dishevelled and decrepit house you can, because you’re going to gut it anyway so it doesn’t matter what it’s like.

In my opinion Victorian houses don’t function well as modern homes, so I say that you’ll have to do a lot to make them work as somewhere to live, bring in normal levels of light and have them properly heated.

Don’t get wrapped up in the romance of old buildings if you want modern standards.

ou’ll find architect Zac Monro at his Brixton office most days quietly employing the skills he’s been sought after for decades – designing Londoners’ dream homes.

But his fame is now national. Zac recently began appearing on TV alongside his hero, Kevin McCloud, in Channel 4’s House of the Year while also presenting his own show, Inside Out Homes. Nigel Lewis caught up him to grapple with some of the current big architectural trends.

NIGEL LEWIS: Isn’t using an architect just for the wealthy?

ZAC MONRO: You could say that but I prefer to say that our projects are properly designed. Architecture isn’t about elitism; TV programmes like Grand Designs have raised the bar of what people expect from their homes. It’s about better lifestyles.

And we’re just lucky that in the UK a lot of people own their homes and therefore there’s a growing market for good design.

NL: I hear you’ve been on TV ZM: I was picked up by Channel 4 for a TV series called Inside Out Homes that looks at people’s existing properties and tries to do what Californians have been doing for years – mixing up what’s ‘interior’ and ‘exterior’.

It’s about how you deal with the relationships between the exterior and the interior. Hence why it’s called Inside Out Homes.

The show is unusual because it’s not ‘presented’ but rather the person doing the work to the property is the person talking.

It’s them saying ‘I’m in trouble’ rather than the presenter.

I’ve also got involved with the 2015 and 2016 House of The Year show also on Channel 4. I’m filmed wandering around several of the buildings talking about them.

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Don’t get wrapped up in the romance of old buildings if you want modern standards.

NL: What’s it like working with Kevin?

ZM: What’s lovely about Kevin is that I think we really needed a champion for architecture on primetime TV and more and more that’s him.

Many people might think Grand Designs is just about posh houses, but he makes it clear that stuff that happens at the top of the market will filter down to the rest of us. He’s made people believe in doing the impossible when they build a new home for themselves.

NL: Why are conversions getting more fashionable?

ZM: It’s rare to find new build plots in London rather than developer-built homes so my clients tend to buy existing properties to convert. What I say to people who want

NL: What are you views on building sustainability?

ZM: The fashion for recycling buildings is driven by the law which is very tight on sustainability these days and it means - for example – that a Victorian house is completely unsustainable these days. They are coming to the end of their lifespans as they were designed to last 100 years.

People tend to think of sustainable homes as experimental kind of wattle and daub affairs and that they only want bricks and mortar, but this attitude is changing.

You can see it in the trend for the ‘recycling aesthetic’. We did a project recently where the client stuck all her old floorboards from the original house up on the wall of the new one. I think people are starting to accept that ‘recycling’ when done properly and carefully can look great. It’s all about the detailing.

NL: Has one of your own projects been on Grand Designs?

ZM: Yes, a conversion I worked on overlooking Brockwell Park in South London that was featured in a 2013 programme. It’s between the church and the park’s boundary at the northern end and the clients still live there. We took an existing property and started from scratch as much as we could. And it’s clad in wood. u More information from: www.z-m-a.co.uk

90 23/12/2016 10:16

ONE OF LONDON’S TRUE HIDDEN GEMS ARRANGE A VIEWING TODAY FOR THE VILLAGE CENTRE SHOWHOME 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments from £427,500 Call a member of the sales team on 020 3813 5368 to arrange a viewing.

KIDBROOKE STATION

Sales & Marketing Suite open daily 10am to 6pm (Thursdays until 8pm).

Wallace Court, 40 Tizzard Grove, London SE3 9FD

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28/11/2016 18:44

New show apartment now available to view

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