Absolutely Notting Hill & Kensington October 2017

NOTTING HILL & KENSINGTON

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Notting Hill & Kensington OCTOBER 2017 / £3.95

WILL ALSOP

The architect on town planning – and seasoning OCTOB ER 2017

PAGE TURNERS

Celebrating the beauty of the book

Parlour

GAMES NEW RECIPES FROM JESSE DUNFORD WOOD

In the

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Oct obe r 2017

100 c u lt u r e

36

fa s h i o n

16 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

36 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

20 WHAT’S ON

40 FASHION SHOOT

22 WILL ALSOP

Architectral musings 27 CURTAIN CALL

This month's top stage picks

39 JOIN THE DOTS Go dotty for polka dots this season

This month’s hottest trends and products

10 things we’re coveting this month

Embrace the heritage fabrics of country house style

Diary dates for October

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

48 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL The latest beauty news and reviews

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50 WORKOUT BEAUTY

Breathable gym-ready buys

Chelsea & Fulham OCTOBER 2017 / £3.95

Food & Drink

WILL ALSOP

OCTOB ER 2017

The architect on town planning – and seasoning

PAGE TURNERS

Celebrating the beauty of the book

Parlour

GAMES NEW RECIPES FROM JESSE DUNFORD WOOD

In the

News from the industry

60 KOOKY COOKING

ZEST.LONDON

SHADE DUSKY HUES FOR AUTUMN DAYS ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT COVERS_NH_October_2017.indd 3

58 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

22/09/2017 16:11

Cover: E v a t r o u s e r s i n n a v y, £ 4 6 0 ; E l e n a t o p i n b l a c k , £ 3 9 5 , s d r e s s .c o m

Irresistible takes on British classics from Parlour's Jesse Dunford Wood

63 FOOD REVIEW

Lowndes Bar & Kitchen, SW1

13 PRIME_Oct17_Contents.indd 13

60

interiors

68 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS All the latest news and views from the world of design

72 BOY TALK Home styling with Ruth Matthews

T R AV E L

100 PARADISE LOST

A desert island escape in Vietnam 107 A PATH LESS TRODDEN Milan: the ultimate city break

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 16:13

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HANNAH HOPKINS EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER JOY MONTGOMERY

70 years of teaching children to fly

ARTS & CULTURE WRITER HELEN BROWN GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES ACCOUNT MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR LEAH DAY-ABALOS

Open evening 5 October 6pm - 8pm

PROPERTY DIRECTOR ANDY ELMER PROPERTY DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN DESIGNER CATHERINE PERKINS PRODUCTION ASSISTANT PAULINA SITARZ PRODUCTION MANAGER CHRIS COUCHMAN SENIOR CONTENT STRATEGIST LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL CONTROLLER JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT PA TO DIRECTORS KERRY HOLLINGSWORTH

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com

Founded in 1947, Bassett House in Notting Hill is a proudly non-selective, co-educational prep school for 3 – 11 year olds.

We believe every child can learn to fly. Individual attention combined with our exciting curricular and extra-curricular activities encourage children to think fearlessly and creatively, producing excellent academic results.

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For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com

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

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

To arrange a visit, please call our registrar, Mrs Thalia Demetriades, on 020 8969 0313 or email registrar@bassetths.org.uk.

Bassett House School 60 Bassett Road London W10 6JP

Fo l l ow Us O n Fa c e b o o k @ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES T wi t t e r & In s t a g ra m @ABSOLUTELY_MAGS

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We b si t e

a b s o l u t e l y. l o n d o n

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16/08/2017 16:31 22/09/2017 15:46

Editor’s LETTER

A

s sad as it is to be putting away the summer dresses and swapping Birkenstocks for boots, we must admit, we’re excited for October. The cold weather and lengthening evenings means chunky knits, mulled wine, bobble hats and - the perfect excuse to stay in winter TV. What better time to give the home a little TLC? Turn to page 68 for a plethora of interior ideas and designs, from decadent armchairs to cosy home candles. On page 76 we’re exploring the once dissipated craft of loom weaving, a unique tradition that has been skillfully revived by master maverick weaver Daniel Harris. We also have our usual fabulous fashion offering: this month the spotlight is on polka dots, the trend which has had a grown up makeover for the new season. The issue also offers a hefty dose of wanderlust, with not one but two enticing travel features. First stop Vietnam, where we discover the deserted bays and eco luxury of Con Dao, then onto Milan to unearth the city’s rich cultural offering. All this plus brand new beauty buys, a meeting with architect Will Alsop and our top theatre picks for autumn. I hope you enjoy the issue. Ciao! ◆

pendle harte Editor

15 CHISWICK_September17_COVERS_USE.indd 15

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:04

BRORA

British cashmere brand Brora really comes into its own this time of year with a vast array of gorgeously soft jumpers, polos, ponchos, coats and more.

We’re obsessing over the Merino Intarsia Stripe Jumper for it’s easy-going sports vibe. £169, brora.co.uk

Charlotte’s Champers

Cheers to Veuve Clicquot and Charlotte Olympia’s latest collaboration which sees the designer put her unique stamp on an iconic brand. Available this month exclusively from Harrods. £175; www.harrods.com

TASSEL TIME

The Lizzie Fortunato Jewels collection encapsulates the label’s sophisticated and eclectic bohemian style. Dare to wear these mustard pair to zhoosh up a daytime look. £317; farfetch.com

Puppy Love

Compiled by

H E L E N B R OW N

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

Chis_October17_AbsLoves.indd 16

Kate Spade strikes again with her off beat, innovative and charming designs. Add an element of fun to your handbag with this adorable phone accessory. £75; selfridges.com

16 21/09/2017 15:48

ABSOLUTELY / LOVES HUSH

From luxury loungewear, nightwear and sleepwear to chic daywear, basics and accessories, Hush are marrying on-trend piece with ease and comfort.

Ideal for women who want to look good without spending ages doing so. hush-uk.com

CHECK MATE

This heritage jacket is the season’s game changer. Its impeccable tailoring ensures that even the most casual of t-shirts will look instantly cooler. £940, net-a-porter.com

HIGH FLYING

Made in Japan, Dita's 'Flight' sunnies offer a fresh take on the classic aviator. The angular silhouette has a flattering effect on cheekbones while the grey finish suits all colouring. £425; net-a-porter.com

EYE-SPY

From a bold smoky eye, to a sexy slash of colour and everything in between, Tom Ford’s Eye Colour Quad enables multiple looks from a single beautybag must-have. £66; selfridges.com

Take a Hike

Time Out

Chunky ankle boots are the key trend this season stomping straight from the runway to the streets. Givenchy’s studded pair are perfect for grounding a feminine dress. £965, net-a-porter.com

Abbott Lyon’s Kensington premium range is a classic staple accessory for any wardrobe. We like the black suede version for it’s day-to-night versatility. £90; wolfandbadger.com

17 Chis_October17_AbsLoves.indd 17

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 15:49

ORIGINAL, LIMITED-EDITION ART DECO POSTERS

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

Priced at £395 each.

Private commissions are also welcome.

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

Our central London gallery

All images and text copyright © Pullman Editions Ltd. 2017

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22/09/2017 21/09/2017 11:29 08:18

p.16

WILL ALSOP AND ALESSI p.22 FOLLIES REVIEWED

p.29

70 YEARS OF THE FOLIO SOCIETY

p.30

Poster Girls at the London Transport Museum, ltmuseum.co.uk

> WHAT'S ON

19 CHIS_Oct_17_Culture_Opener.indd 19

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:03

A HISTORY OF MAGIC Fro m 2 0 O c t o b e r B r i ti s h Li b ra r y elve into divination and ponder the peculiarities of potions in a journey to D where magic and myth began. This much anticipated exhibition unveils rare books, manuscripts and magical objects to capture the traditions of folklore and magic which are at the heart of the Harry Potter stories. u 96 Euston Road, NW1; ltmuseum.co.uk

FESTIVAL OF FILM

Poster girls

Fro m 1 O c t o b e r Ro y a l Al b e r t Ha ll ilm fans will know the Royal Albert Hall for its role in Alfred Hitchcock’s F The Man Who Knew Too Much, but it’s just one of many films and shows set at the iconic venue. This four-week festival brings film music front and centre with unmissable events such as Casino Royal and The Addams Family both in concert. u Kensington Gore, SW7; royalalberthall.com

F rom 13 October L on don Tran sport Mu seum

Covent Garden is harnessing girl power this autumn with the London Transport Museum’s latest exhibition. Poster Girls highlights the key female artists who have designed for London transport, including Dora Betty, Herry Perry and Freda Lingstorm. Expect beautiful original posters from the museum, along with letters, ceramics and photographs.

Coven t G arden P iazza, WC2E; ltmu seum.c o.uk

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_Whats_OnUSE.indd 20

SAFARI 5 -1 2 O c t o b e r Va r i o u s L o c a ti o ns iscover the unique artwork of Arran D Gregory on an exhibition trail through Chelsea’s design quarter. McCarron & Co are amongst the 20 showrooms to host Safari, which will take visitors on a discovery of Gregory’s depictions of the natural world. u Chelsea Cross, SW3; chelseacross.com | arrangregory.com

20 22/09/2017 15:02

ARTS & CULTURE / TALKING TOPICS

TROUBLE IN MIND Un ti l 14 Se p t e m b e r C o ro ne t P r i nt Ro o m his critically acclaimed T production comes to Print Room following a hugely successful run in Bath.

Peppered with humour, Trouble in Mind depicts the back-stage life of talented African-American actress Wiletta as she navigates the white dominated theatre scene of the fifties. u 103 Notting Hill Gate, W11; the-print-room.org

must see

ART FOR GRENFELL 16 O ctober S o theby’s

REVERENCE

Sotheby’s are raising funds for the families effected by the tragic Grenfell Tower fire with an auction in their New Bond Street house.

Tracey Emin, Tacita Dean, and Wolfgang Tillmans are amongst those donating works, with all proceeds divided equally between the 158 surviving families.

Un ti l 4 O ctober D issenters G a ll e r y mages of Muslim women are often used in the West to A signify restriction and lack of freedom. Sophie Macdonald’s paintings of jubilant, active veiled women challenges this negative view and opens up a dialogue between women who wear the veil and women who don’t. Sophie’s paintings are inspired by her need to challenge her own prejudices about the veil and explore the relationship between the female body and the requirements of faith. u 391 Ladbroke Grove, W10; dissentersgallery.com

34-35 New Bond Street, W1A; sothebys.com

EVENT OF THE MONTH

HISTORY IS A NIGHTCLUB 2 - 3 1 O cto b er Pe te r Har r i n g to n G al le r y et a glimpse into some of the most candid moments of the 80’s with a spectacular array of never-beforeseen photographs from Ben Buchanan. Working as an in-house photographer for iconic

G

21 NH_Whats_OnUSE.indd 21

night club AREA, Ben captured the greats of modern art - from Sting to The Beastie Boys, Warhol, Hockney and Haring - at their most relaxed. u 43 Dover Street, W1S; peterharrington.co.uk

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:02

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

TORONTO’S OCAD UNIVERSITY BUILDING

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_OCT_ALSOP_V2.indd 22

22 21/09/2017 15:55

ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW

Daily

GRIND

F

rom teaspoon to city” reads the mission statement on aLL Design’s website, the architecture practice led

by Stirling Award-winning principal, Will Alsop. As a tagline of sorts, it couldn’t better summarised than with a brief glance at his current dizzying roster of projects.

“At one end of the spectrum, we’re working on a series of a hundred new mid-sized towns in China,” he explains airily, as if the creation from scratch of a century of conurbations was the de rigueur stuff of a quiet week.

“At entirely the other end, I have a set of new salt and pepper mills about to launch.”

We’re here to talk about the latter – titled ‘Grind’ – which is on the brink of being unveiled by Italian product powerhouse, Alessi. Created in collaboration with the Bologna-based architect Federico Grazzini, whom Alsop credits with having a brilliant knack for refining their collective objets, Grind comprises a pair of silver and black mills, at once industrial and refined. They represent the latest in a line of creations produced under Alessi’s auspices over the last decade, ranging from the teaspoon of the tagline (all fluid spiralling sleek silver) to ‘Daytimer’, a characteristically spirited wrist watch in a rainbow of eye-popping colours

entirely in keeping with the wider Alsopian oeuvre.

It’s a partnership that has brought much in the way of creative satisfaction and which, crucially for Alsop, comes with few imaginative constraints. “It started when Alberto Alessi, who is the grandson of the man who founded the company, sent me an invitation to design a limited-edition tea set – only 99 exist and all of them were sold. After that, my wife and I went to the Alessi factory at Crusinallo in Piedmont, which is where all products have been made since the 1920s when it was founded. I saw what they have and what sort of products they’re able to make. What I like is that Alberto might just send you a little prompt to say, ‘Perhaps you might like to start thinking about a design for a salt and pepper’ – but in reality, you can do what you like, so long as the factory can make the design.”

Alsop’s name has been built on the unbounded nature of his imagination; his is a philosophy that dictates that daring to dream is fundamental to change. Given the sheer scale of his at times improbably inventive work, that takes in international cruise terminals-come-officecome-shopping centres in Shanghai and art schools on stilts in Toronto, I wonder what it’s like to scale down the design process for something that you can hold in your hand.

“It’s the same,” he reflects. “Whatever you’re doing, you’re always looking for the thing that makes it more useful, more beautiful and more relevant.”

What’s it like to

SCALE DOWN THE DESIGN PROCESS ,

to something you can HOLD IN YOUR HAND?

23 CHIS_OCT_ALSOP_V2.indd 23

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:25

CONSTABLE AND BRIGHTON 8 APRIL – 8 OCTOBER 2017

A major exhibition at Brighton Museum Admission payable Members free John Constable, R.A. (1776-1837) Seascape study: boat and stormy sky ca.1824-1828 © Royal Academy of Arts, London Photographer: John Hammond

REGENCY SEASON at the Royal Pavilion & Museums JANE AUSTEN BY THE SEA 17 JUNE 2017– 8 JANUARY 2018

Walking Dress, 1818 © Special Collections University of Sussex

The Royal Pavilion Free with Royal Pavilion admission Members free

#regencyseason

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09/05/2017 12:18

ARTS & CULTURE / INTERVIEW

TORONTO’S OCAD UNIVERSITY BUILDING

GAO YANG

In the case of the salt and pepper, on two things he was adamant: firstly, he knew that he wanted to make something weighty: “It had to have a certain gravity – it’s like the difference between using a heavy knife and fork and a plastic set.

I knew it should be something beautiful to look at, so the general form is like a bulbous onion, stretched up with ridges that make it easy to grip. Eating at its best, after all, should have a sense of occasion about it.” Secondly, it should do the job better. “There are a lot of salt and pepper mills on the market. Some work well, others don’t. But the thing they all do is to leave a residue of pepper or salt on the table. It really annoys me. So we decided to make our mill face upwards; you turn the base of the form, so you don’t get any irritating deposit on the table.”

Alsop is, in many ways, a man of great contradictions. His work, more than any other architect, is like art made flesh, its organic fluidity, its unreserved use of colour and its often amorphous forms – which often seem like characters that have wandered out of his head – delighting and perplexing onlookers in equal measure. Indeed, his starting point for every building is on the canvas (a skill recognised in his status as a Royal Academician) – and as such, his outward appearance

GRIND - SALT AND PEPPER POTS FOR ALESSI

His work IS LIKE ART

made flesh

is more akin to that of painteremerging-from-studio than the caricature of the meticulous, polonecked bespectacled architect.

His shoes bear the relics of his last explorations with the brushes, paint spatters decorating them like a Jackson Pollock and his untucked shirts reveal a man relaxed and unfettered by finicky notions of sartorial neatness.

And yet in his environment, he is fastidious. A glance at his desk tells its own tale: empty, save a couple of Mont Blanc pens, pristine and everything at right angles.

This perhaps unexpected need for order does find expression in the occasional building too; his Palestra office block at Southwark, for example, confounds expectation by being reserved and demure in its use of colour. It’s an exacting

25 CHIS_OCT_ALSOP_V2.indd 25

attitude that even Alberto Alessi has been subjected to. “At the factory, Alberto has this wonderful, elongated oval table that must be about six metres long. It’s full of interesting things; note pads and pens, products, prototypes. I said to him once: ‘Alberto, your desk is really interesting. And also really untidy.’ He said: ‘Ah yes, every six months I empty it, it’s all cleared away. But then I like to let it build up again.’ I liked that he was so inspired by these things, these remnants of conversations he’s had with so many people over the last six months.”

Beyond salt and pepper, Alsop, along with his design studio based on the top floor of a building in Bethnal Green (complete with roof terrace for growing vegetables, drinking and smoking), is working on an art park in China, large mixed-used developments in both Manchester and Brentford and three houses on the south coast.

And then there are those hundred towns. “The central government in China decided that they wanted 100 new sustainable towns – nothing too big, because cities in China tend to be huge and the idea here is to give people options about where and how they live and to allow them to appreciate the rural.” Given that his architectural manifesto – if he had such a thing – would be littered with the word ‘joy’ and his insistence that we should be active in making more time for it in our lives, he seems just the man to deliver a cultural revolution of delight. ◆

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:25

18 Nov 06 Jan

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22/09/2017 15:17

FANGTASTIC HALLOWEEN

22 Nov 24 Dec

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OCTOBER 21 – 29

Creepy tales, spooky trail, castle quiz, craft workshops and prizes for the scariest costume.

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18/09/2017 16:35

22/09/2017 11:24 24/07/2017 14:42 22/09/2017 15:59

1 4

THEATRE / WHAT’S ON

Best in

2

3

the go-getting Once-ler come face to face with the magical Lorax in a battle over the beloved truffula trees and the whole of Paradise Valley. Adapted for the stage by David Greig, Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax is a brilliant riot of eyepopping colour, gorgeous puppetry and infectious music to enchant adults and children alike. l The Cut, SE1; oldvictheatre.com

3. THE SLAVES OF SOLITUDE

20 October - 25 November Hampstead Theatre In Henley-on-Thames, 1943, Miss Roach is forced by the war to flee London for the grey, lonely Rosamund Tea Rooms.

But a breath of fresh air arrives in the form of a handsome American

26 September - 2 1 October Lyttelton Theatre

2 . THE LORA X

15 October - 5 November The Old Vic The irrepressible, bighearted, moustachioed critter is back. This dazzlingly funny, moving, and inspiring show sees

Chis_Oct17_THEATRE.indd 27

Spend a cosy evening in theatre-land with our top stage picks for the month

By H e l e n B r ow n

1. JANE EYRE

This year marks the 170th anniversary of Jane Eyre and Charlotte Brontë’s story of the trailblazing protagonist is as inspiring as ever. This bold and dynamic production tells the story of one women’s fight for freedom and fulfilment.

Jane Eyre’s spirited heroine faces life’s obstacles head-on, through orphanage, poverty and betrayal, before making the ultimate decision to follow her heart. l South Bank, SE1; national theatre.org.uk

SHOW

5

Lieutenant and things start to look distinctly brighter. Adapted from Patrick Hamilton’s much-loved story, this new play weaves a fascinating blend of dark hilarity and melancholy in a story about an improbable heroine in wartime Britain. l Eton Avenue, NW3; hampstead.com

4. THE LIE

Until 18 November Menier Chocolate Factor y Florian Zeller is the award-winning playwright of The Father and The Truth, both of which have already made their mark on the West End. Zeller’s The Lie follows a women who sees her best friend’s husband cheating on her. Samantha Bond, James Dreyfus, Tony Gard and Alexander Gilbreath star in this thoughtprovoking exploration of truth and infidelity. l 53 Southwark Street, SE1; menierchocolatefactory.com

5. OSLO

From 2 October Harold Pinter Theatre In 1993, in front of the world’s press, the leaders of Israel and Palestine shook hands on the lawn of the White House. This new political thriller follows the true story of these maverick diplomats in the run up to this iconic event, as they host top secret talks and inspire impossible friendships. l Panton Street, SW1Y; nationaltheatre.org.uk

27

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 15:57

EATON HOUSE SCHOOLS

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Eaton House The Manor Preparatory School (Tatler, 2017)

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Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Preparatory School (Good Schools Guide, 2017)

Passionate and dynamic teaching

Eaton House The Manor Girls’ School (Good Schools Guide, 2017)

MEET BELGRAVIA’S NEWEST AND BRIGHTEST PREP! Traditional yet innovative, the new Eaton House Belgravia Prep is the perfect solution for bright academic boys aged 8-13 Eaton House Belgravia Prep, for boys aged 8-13, is a new sister school for the long-established and academically outstanding Eaton House Belgravia PrePrep for boys aged 4-8. With a new co-educational nursery at Eaton House Belgravia Pre-Prep, parents now have the chance to educate boys to the highest

level from the ages of 3-13 at two dedicated mansion house sites in Belgravia and South Kensington.

Children in Eaton House Schools regularly win places, awards and scholarships at a range of senior schools, including Eton College, Westminster School, St Paul’s School, Dulwich

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THEATRE / REVIEW

Follies

Stephen Sondheim’s musical returns to London for the first time in 30 years – and it’s a huge success Wo r d s P e n d l e H a r t e Photography by Johan Persson

W

hen every single member of the Olivier’s audience is standing up and whooping, the message is clear.

Dominic Cooke’s new production of Follies is a huge success on multiple counts. The music is wonderful, the dancing a delight, the costumes, staging and choreography all masterly, while the message remains at heart quite dark, certainly for a musical.

We open in a derelict theatre, once home to Weismann’s Follies, which is hosting a reunion on the eve of the building’s destruction. Ageing former

Josephine Barstow as Heidi, Gemma Page as Sandra, Janie Dee as Phyllis, Geraldine Fitzgerald as Solange & Tracie Bennett as Carlotta

It’s not a

CHEERFUL MESSAGE but there is LOTS OF JOY to be found

marveling at the follies of youth. There’s lots of wordplay – especially with 'folly' – and the second half's pastiche numbers are signposted 'Ben's Folly' as the various delusions and disappointments come to light. In all, it's not a cheerful message but there's lots of joy to be found in the staging and food for thought throughout. 

showgirls arrive and are presented with sashes announcing their vintages; it’s 1971 and the oldest of the dancers performed in 1918. Gradually it becomes clear – to us – that the young dancers among them are in fact shadow versions of their former selves, their presence in each other’s worlds a reminder of how things have changed. So Imelda Staunton's Sally Durant and her alter-ego Alex Young as Young Sally are (mostly) invisible to each other as the show goes on to explore the behind-the-scenes realities, with interwoven themes of disappointment, jealousy, ego and age as the passing of time takes centre stage. It's not so much a plot as a revisiting of past events, the mourning for former glories and endless

 Follies is currently booking until 3 January 2018; it will be broadcast by NT Live to cinemas in the UK and internationally on Thursday 16 November. ntlive.nationaltheatre.org.uk

29 Chis_Oct17_THEATRE Review.indd 29

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:45

Bound toWin A new exhibition at the V&A celebrates 70 years of the Folio Society, which continues to produce beautiful books that put e-readers to shame Wo r d s p e n d l e h a r t e

I

t was only a few years ago that the publishing world was predicting the downfall of the paper volume. We would all be reading digitally and the

actual book would become as redundant as a Betamax video, freeing our shelves and enslaving us all to Amazon. But in 2017, sales of books are higher than ever. What happened?

For one thing, readers learnt to accommodate the digital page alongside the printed one; many of us now happily read both.

But figures for the past year show a marked decline in e-book sales alongside an actual rise in paperback ones, with more money in total being spent on reading across the board than in the previous year. Why is this?

And how have books themselves changed in the new climate?

One way that the book publishing world has responded to the

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

CHIS_Oct17_FOLIO/V&A.indd 30

SAM WEBER (BORN 1981) DUNE BY FRANK HERBERT, 2015

competition presented by the e-book is to focus on making books desirable objects. Beautiful, tactile items that are a joy to hold and to own. Cover art, illustrations and creative bindings are at the foreground of publishing's current offerings, with Penguin’s clothbound editions responding to a rediscovered interest in book aesthetics. This has been the Folio Society’s mission for the past 70 years. Founded in 1947, dedicated to creating beautiful books, the Folio Society continues

QUENTIN BLAKE (BORN 1932) THE HUNTING OF THE SNARK. AN AGONY, IN EIGHT FITS BY LEWIS CARROLL, 1976

to honour its founder’s promise of producing ‘editions of the world’s great literature, in a format worthy of its contents, at a price within the reach of everyman’. And in today's climate, it can be seen as a slow reading movement, whereby books are celebrated for their tactile nature and appreciated for their visual appeal and craftsmanship.

HARRY BROCKWAY (BORN 1958) CRIME AND PUNISHMENT BY FYODOR DOSTOYEVSKY, TRANSLATED

BY DAVID MCDUFF, 1997

30 22/09/2017 12:00

ARTS & CULTURE / BOOKS

NEIL PACKER (BORN 1961) ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF SOLITUDE

BY GABRIEL GARCÍA MÁRQUEZ, TRANSLATED BY GREGORY RABASSA, 2006

31 CHIS_Oct17_FOLIO/V&A.indd 31

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:00

Monday 16th October 2017 and Tuesday 17th October 2017

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ARTS & CULTURE / BOOKS

A Folio book is a unique object, one in which typography, illustration, paper, and printing and binding techniques all play a part in creating a harmonious whole. The Folio Society has celebrated the particular joy to be derived from owning, holding and reading a beautiful printed edition.

Our aim is to create books that are unique in their aesthetic and in their quality – this is what makes a Folio collection something to cherish.”

‘THE ARTFUL BOOK’

A celebration of 70 years of The Folio Society at the National Art Library at the V&A Museum

The display, to be found at the entrance to the National Art Library at the V&A, will continue until 28 January 2018. Admission is free.

ANNA AND ELENA BALBUSSO (BORN 1967) THE HANDMAID’S TALE BY MARGARET ATWOOD, 2012

Books are CELEBRATED for their VISUAL APPEAL and CRAFTSMANSHIP

DEANNA STAFFO (BORN 1982) PERSUASION BY JANE AUSTEN, 2016

33 CHIS_Oct17_FOLIO/V&A.indd 33

Beautifully printed and bound, many of the Folio Society's hardback volumes feature specially commissioned illustrations.

Harnessing this interest, a new exhibition at the V&A celebrates 70 years of the Folio Society. The first title, an illustrated edition of Tales by Tolstoy, is included in the exhibition along with a selection of original artwork from the archive accompanied by the books for which they were commissioned, a selection of materials showing the history of the company and a dedicated reading corner inside the National Art Library where a range of titles can be enjoyed first hand. Artwork by Quentin Blake, Angela Barrett, Charles Keeping, Neil Packer, Anna and Elena Balbusso, Geoff Grandfield and Harry Brockway and many others are included.

Folio are regularly awarded for the excellence of their books, most recently being named as finalist for six of their editions in the prestigious British Book Production and Design Awards for 2017. ¿

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> FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

p.36

AW17 TREND: POLKA DOTS

p.39

DE ARCHITECTURA Inspired by the work of Italian artist Ettore Sottsass, Furla’s AW17 collection is an ode to the brand’s 90-year heritage. Interwoven with Italian DNA and craftsmanship, Sottsass’ geometric motifs pervade the designs through playful details and graphic prints. furla.com

35 Chis_Oct17_Fashion_Opener.indd 35

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:04

st y l e C e n t r a l

How to create a capsule wardrobe, berets are back and this season’s hottest shoe style Wo r d s j oy m o n t g o m e r y

CUDONI TH E P R E - OWN E D FA H S I O N E X P E RTS Wo r d s e v e h e r b e r t

I

f the end of London Fashion week has inspired you to get your hands on designer goods, then Cudoni, a premium service dedicated to helping busy people sell their pre-owned luxury goods, is for you. After London's high-net-worthindividuals and super-rich cleared out their closets for the biggest event in the fashion calendar, now all those items must find a new home. “It makes sense” says James Harford-Tyre, founder of Cudoni. “The season has changed and people want the most current pieces.”

An iconic Hermès Birkin bag, an exclusive Patek Philippe Nautilus watch worth five figures, a classic Burberry Prorsum trench coat in heart print, Gucci Marmont metallic gold pumps and a custom Chanel clutch bag are just some of the offerings from the Cudoni vaults. “It’s fantastic to see how far we’ve come in just a few months. Demand has been unprecedented; we’ve had to source private warehouses to store incoming stock. August especially was a record month, with people making space for this season’s trends. Average basket sizes have increased by 40%,” says Harford-Tyrer, who credits Cudoni’s success to the VIP service and the company’s ability to generate higher earnings for its customers, an average of 30% more than they would find if they sold items on their own.

He adds: “People have less time and patience for sifting through sales platforms and uploading information about products.

We’ve found this is especially true amongst London’s super-wealthy. “Simultaneously, there is a raised awareness and dedication to sustainable living. It’s not just the thrill of the sale, people also want to lessen their environmental impact.” After all, there is only so much space in one wardrobe. u

cudoni.com

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

NH_CH_Oct17_FASHNOTES 2.indd 36

Portobello Belle M .i .h Je a n s x B ay G a r n e tt

This season Fashion Editor Bay Garnett has joined forces with M.i.h Jeans to explore their shared love of London style. Harking back to the ‘90s west London style scene, the Golborne Road Project is made up of eight-pieces that recall Garnett’s time at Central Saint Martins. Set to be this season's coolest fashion collaboration. matchesfashion.com

36 22/09/2017 12:04

FASHION / NOTES

MODERN MUSE

5

Maggie Marilyn Fun, fresh and very ‘now’, Maggie Marilyn is the up-and-coming New Zealand fashion designer creating clothing with a conscience. With an emphasis on ethical and environmentally-friendly production, Marilyn’s wearable creations are accented by the odd ruffle, ruched detailing or go-faster stripe, resulting in luxe staples that exude lowmaintenance cool. Watch this face; £850. net-a-porter.com

of the best

HIGH STREET S O C K B O OTS

HATS OFF

Lock & Co. Hatters Thanks to Dior’s Maria Grazia Chiuri, berets are big news for AW17.

Forget affected Parisian clichés, the new way to wear it is strictly utilitarian. Make like Maria and pair with an oversized shacket or slouchy polo neck; military undertones are a must. If Dior’s leather iteration isn’t your thing then Lock & Co’s classic style will certainly hit the spot. yolke.co.uk

2

3

editor’s

PREHISTORIC PICKS

PICK

Dinosaur Designs With their sculptural silhouettes and unique use of resin, Dinosaur Designs’ handcrafted jewellery offers a refined respite from last season's larger-than-life costume jewellery.

Founded in Sydney by Louise Olsen and Stephen Ormandy, the brand’s collection of elegant earrings, necklaces and bangles will act as the perfect centre piece for any outfit. net-a-porter.com

UTERQÜE Striped Sock-Style Ankle Boots, £115; uterque.com

ZARA

Striped Heel Sock-Style Ankle Boots, £39.99; zara.com

FRILL SEEKER

Dubarry We’re channeling our inner Mr Darcy with Dubarry’s Chamomile Shirt. The ruffle and prim and proper collar, plus the brand’s traditional roots, will ensure that you do AW17’s heritage trend the authentic way.

Style with a flash of patent to balance out any prudish undertones - be it a daring mini, block-heeled ankle boot or high shine biker; £69. dubarryboots.com

37 NH_CH_Oct17_FASHNOTES 2.indd 37

1

MANGO Heel Sock Boots, £49.99; shop.mango.com

4 5 H&M

must

HAVE

& OTHER STORIES

Sock Boots, £115; stories.com

Sock-Style Court Shoes, £39.99; hm.com

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FASHION / TREND ATTICO Mara Polka-Dot Pumps, £795; net-a-porter.com

MARQUES’ALMEIDA Jacquard Polka Dot Blouse, £450; farfetch.com

MARC JACOBS Polka-Dot Silk-Satin Twill Scarf, £90; net-a-porter.com

CAROLINE CONSTAS Gabriella Polka-Dot Top, £365; net-aporter.com

UTERQÜE Pink Polka-Dot Shirt, £95; uterque.com

CALVIN KLEIN Koko Polka-Dot Satin Maxi Dress, £1,555; matchesfashion.com

PRADA SS17

GANNI Leclair Ruffled Polka-Dot Satin Midi Skit, £225; net-a-porter.com

Zimmermann Autumn/ Winter 2017

UTERQÜE Polka-Dot High Heel Sandals, £115; uterque.com

JOIN THE DOTS Polka dots get a grown-up makeover this season B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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MANGO Bow Polka-Dot Blouse, £25.99; shop.mango.com

MARC JACOBS Polka-Dot Snapshot Camera Bag, £370; marcjacobs.com

39 22/09/2017 12:07

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22/09/2017 12:10

COUNTRY HOUSE ESCAPE Aut umn has arrived: revel in the heritage fabrics and woolly warmth that befits the season C r e a t i v e D i r e c t o r P E N E L O P E C H I LV E R S P h o t o g r a p h y A N YA H O L D S T O C K S t y l i n g G E M M A S O R T C H I LV E R S H a i r & M a k e u p F I O N A G A L L AG H E R

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> BEAUTY NOTES: THIS MONTH'S BEST BUYS

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SHOPPING EDIT: SKIN-LOVING GYM-READY BEAUTY BUYS p.51

POLISHED TO PERFECTION For autumn, Jo Malone has taken their best-selling scents and combined them with exfoliating ingredients. Using Jojoba beads, orange peel and bamboo stem, the formula works to delicately smooth away dryness and impurities. Perfect for dull winter skin. jomalone.co.uk

47 Chis_Oct17_BEAUTY OPENER.indd 47

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:05

t r e at M e n t R e v i e w

Glossier comes to the UK, ghd goes pink and discover this season’s hottest hair hue W o r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

NAILS & BROWS THE AU D R EY B ROW

Wo r d s G a b r i e l l e H E r n a n d e z

A

longside bikini waxes and root touch-ups, eyebrow shaping usually falls firmly into the practical beauty camp: necessary evils that have to be maintained on a semi-regular basis. It’s rare, therefore, to come across hair removal a treatment that totally blows us away, yet Nails & Brows Mayfair have done just that.

This small yet elegant boutique is the first luxury concept nail and brow styling destination in London. Opened in 2014 by brow expert to the stars, Sherrille Riley, in just three-years Nails & Brows has gained an impressive reputation within the industry.

We have come to try the salon’s signature new offering: The Audrey Brow. Inspired by silver screen beauty Audrey Hepburn's iconic power brows, the treatment focuses on a full, arch-less shape, which tapers out towards the temple. This isn’t a copy job, however, and as with all Nails & Brows treatments the process is completely bespoke. Hepburn’s brow was selected for its universal ability to “instantly lift the face creating a natural, fresh and youthful look”.

The treatment begins with an analysis of my brow and face shape before the technician sets about carefully threading and shaping, ensuring natural shape and fullness aren’t lost. Even before they are filled in, my brows look better than ever - simply their natural selves, just much better. Styling comes next, using the brand’s fantastic new line of brow products, which includes the brow filler pencil, lift highlighter and setting gel. ◆

NAILS AND BROWS 31 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EJ 020 7499 5245 nailsandbrows.me

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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Scarlet Fever C h a r l e s Wo r t h i n g t o n

To celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Charles Worthington Salons, the brand is releasing their most vibrant collection to date. 'Vibe' is all about creating show-stopping colour, and this autumn the theme is ravishing reds. Whether it's strawberry blonde, muted russet or bold crimson, this on-trend hue is the easiest way to change up your look for autumn. charlesworthingtonsalons.com

48 22/09/2017 12:13

HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

6

of the best

COLOUR ME PRETTY

C o l o u r I n f u s e Wa s h No sulphates, parabens or silicone, and 100% vegan, Infuse My Colour Wash is one of the good guys of the haircare industry.

Coming in five washes - ruby, copper, gold, cobalt and platinum - these heroes are designed to refresh colour and add vibrancy to coloured hair. Use now for happy locks all winter long; £13.95 boots.com

TOO HOT TO HANDLE

Urban Decay NAKED Heat Hailed as the ultimate nude eyeshadow offering, every beauty veteran will have Urban Decay’s Naked palette in their arsenal. The brand has now released a palette of 12 new sizzling sunset shades, perfect for this season’s earthy-toned beauty look. £39.50; urbandecay.co.uk

HAIR WITH HEART

ghd Platinum Pink Blush This season ghd's cult styling products are supporting breast cancer charities across the globe with the launch of their limited edition pink blush collection.

For every product in the range sold, ghd will make a donation - choose from a platinum styler, air hairdryer or paddle brush. It’s time to think pink. ghdhair.com

editor’s

PICK

AESTHETIC EXPORTS

Glossier The storming success of US beauty brand, Glossier, from Into the Gloss' Emily Weiss, has led to a long-awaited UK launch. With its Instagram-friendly packaging, cruelty-free formulas and ‘less is more’ mantra, the brand finally announced its arrival in the UK. Wishlists at the ready. glossier.com

49 NH_CH_Oct17_BEAUTYNOTES_Oct17.indd 49

NAIL CO LO U R S

1

2

BURBERRY BEAUTY Poppy Black, £15; uk.burberry.com

SMITH AND CULT Bitter Buddhist, £19; cultbeauty.co.uk

3 4 BUTTER LONDON Dahling, £12; simplybe.co.uk

DEBORAH LIPPMANN Get Lucky, £18; net-aporter.com

6

NAILS INC Victoria, £14; net-aporter.com

must

HAVE

YVES SAINT LAURENT Beige Gallery, £19.50; selfridges.com

5 absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:13

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HEALTH & BEAUTY / PRODUCTS

SHISEIDO Pureness

BAREMINERALS

Matifying Compact Oil-Free, £27; johnlewis.com

Correcting Concealer, £21; bareminerals.co.uk

LA ROCHE-POSAY Effaclar Mat, £14.50; boots.com

BENEFIT BENEBALM Hydrating

Tinted Lip Balm, £15.50; boots.com

NARS

Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, £18.50; narscosmetics.co.uk

CLINIQUE

Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm, £19.50; clinique.co.uk

L'ORÉAL

Paris Brow Artist Genius Kit, £9.99; boots.com

BENEFIT Gimme Brow, £20; boots.com

LANCÔME

Hypnôse Drama Waterproof, £24.50; lancome.co.uk

GAME FACE

OXYGENETIX

Oxygenating Breathable Foundation, £49.50; cultbeauty.co.uk

Gym-ready, breathable beauty buys B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

BAREMINERALS

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS

Clear Brow Gel, £16.50; cultbeauty.co.uk

ESTÉE LAUDER

Double Wear Makeup Remover Wipes, £20; esteelauder.co.uk

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Multi-Tasking Concealer, £20; bareminerals.co.uk

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:14

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ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

Bridal beauty boost Tima Reshad of Coco Nail Bar explains whatthe CACI cosmetic treatment can do to help brides look and feel their beautiful best

A

CACI Synergy is like a workout for the face but without the sweat and pain of the gym. As a non-surgical alternative to botox and fillers, no wonder it is a longstanding favourite among many A-listers. Jennifer Lopez has been using CACI for years – in fact, she loved it so much she purchased a machine to use at home. The machine is also able to carry out microdermabrasion, a safe and controlled treatment that intensely exfoliates and resurfaces the skin.

H OW LO N G D O TH E BENEFITS LAST? To get the best effect, it is best to have a course of treatments. After that, touch up CACI treatments once or twice a month are recommended to keep the results going.

W H AT E L S E D O Y O U RECOMMEND?

A non-surgical

ALTERNATIVE TO BOTOX and fillers, CACI SYNERGY is a favourite among A-LISTERS BECAUSE it deliverS GREAT RESULTS

The wrinkle comb is great for more mature brides. It works to reduce fine lines and crows feet.

We also offer reatments to target stretchmarks, specific blemishes, pigmentation and age spots. Our CACI lip treatment will leave lips looking plumper and more luscious (a 15-minute session costs £30). We offer a wide range of other beauty treatments and packages to boost your skin and your confidence, and are happy to discuss your personal wishlist and develop a programme around you.

W H AT T R E AT M E N T WO U LD YO U RECOMMEND FOR BRIDES? The Red Carpet Facial is a favourite among brides, giving that fresh look. Ultrosonic peeling and orbital microdermabrasion are used in this treatment to gently cleanse and exfoliate the skin. S.P.E.D. micro current L.E.D. technology is then used to lift and tone the face and neck, followed by CACI’s unique

53 AW17_COCONAILBAR LN.indd 53

CACI is suitable for sensitive skin.

Skin may become slightly red for the first 48 hours but it will then pass.

Microdermabrasion may be best avoided.

Yes, absolutely! It can also improve tummy tone and other ‘problem’ areas, including helping to lift the bottom/thigh area and the jaw.

W H AT I S T H E C A C I SYSTE M?

S O W H AT C A N C A C I D O FOR ME?

MY SKIN IS SENSITIVE , S O I S C A C I S U I TA B L E F O R M Y FA C E ?

CA N CAC I H E LP W ITH CELLULITE?

t Coco Nail Bar, the team are very excited about the CACI system, offering a brilliant range of skincare solutions to brides and anyone looking to improve their skin tone and fight the signs of ageing. Tima Reshad explains how it works.

CACI stands for Computer-Aided Cosmetology Instrument and it works by using microcurrents to release tiny electrical impulses that mimic the body’s own electrical signals. As a result of a biological process, cellular metabolism is increased, along with protein synthesis, detoxification and the regeneration of collagen and elastin. CACI’s newest machine, the Synergy, combines microcurrent with S.P.E.D. LED technology for even more visible, longer-lasting results.

wrinkle comb to target fine lines and wrinkles (a 90-minute treatment costs £120).

Coco Nail Bar is at 267 Portobello Road, W11. Find out more about CACI on Facebook at @CACI.INT For more about Coco Nail Bar's full range of beauty and pampering services, visit coconailbar.com

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:06

W W W . C O L L I E R B R I S T O W. C O M

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HEALTH & BEAUTY / NOTES

Collier Bristow Corporate logo guidelines

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22/09/2017 15:36

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> LONDON'S BEST BAKERIES & THE CITY'S BIGGEST FOOD FESTIVAL p.58 RECIPES FROM PARLOUR

p.60

RETRO FAVOURITES Based around the premise that food should be fun and that flavour is key, Jesse Dunford Wood’s new book - Modern British Food: Recipes from Parlour, gives British classics a kooky twist. Cow Pie sits alongside his modern take on Chicken Kyiv and a wealth of wittily conceived, much-loved dishes. £20, Absolute Press

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absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:26

W h a t t o drink

kitchen

GRAPE NEWS

Wine recommendations for the month

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

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

HAMBLEDON, CLASSIC CUVÉE ROSÉ, SPARKLING, HAMPSHIRE £35 A beautiful vivid pink with a bright red berry hue, this wine displays an array of wild strawberry aromas on the nose that lead to a generous, complex palate of buttered toast, ripe lemon and juicy hedgerow fruit. ◆

2016 BERRY BROS. & RUDD PINOT NOIR

BY CRITTENDEN, MORNINGTON PENINSULA £34.95 With aromas of juicy red cherry, leading on to a palate of crunchy redcurrants and strawberries, this has a delicious freshness, making it supremely drinkable. Drink now to 2023 with a fillet of Dover sole. ◆

2015 BERRY BROS. & RUDD EDEN VALLEY RIESLING TORZI MATTHEWS VINTNERS £19.95 Aromas and flavours of classic lime fruit move through to a peach-stone core. The beauty of this wine lies in its impressive weight and texture, which combines with a porcelain freshness. ◆

B E R RY B R OS . & R U D D Berry Bros. & Rudd is Britain's oldest wine and spirit merchant, having traded from the same shop since 1698. Today the company also has offices in Japan, Singapore and Hong Kong, a Wine School and an exclusive fine wine and dining venue in St James's. bbr.com

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FOOD FEST L o n d o n R e s t a u r a n t Fe s t i v a l

This massive celebration of London’s best returns with a packed calendar focusing on the diversity of the local restaurant scene. Events include Champagne Gourmet Odysseys, the Ultimate Gastronomic Weekend, Chef’s Tasting Menus and opportunities to learn to cook at leading cookery schools. Various locations, londonrestaurantfestival.com

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FOOD & DRINK / NOTES

5

BOMBAY CAFE

Dishoom Dishoom is preparing to open another Bombay-influenced café in the corner of the iconic Barkers building. Within the space, the stories of 1940s Bombay will be brought to life, showcasing the unexpected form of Art Deco that flourished alongside an equally unexpected and exciting jazz scene.

Barker’s Building, Derry Street, W8; dishoom.com

of the best

BAKERIES

PUB LUNCH

Duke of Clarence The newly refurbished pub in South Kensington and is the perfect place to enjoy good food. Their selection of fine steaks sourced from the award-winning family butcher, Frank Godfrey, makes the Duke of Clarence the go-to place at any time, day or night. 148 Old Brompton Road, SW5; thedukeofclarencesw5.co.uk

Embrace the autumn at one of our favourite bakeries…

Wo r d s G A B R I E L L E H E R N A N D E Z

01

THE OLD POST OFFICE

Thirty years of passion has powered The Old Post Office. Using no artificial additives, they offer the most savoury selection of breads and pastries. 76 Landor Road, SW9; oldpostofficebakery.co.uk

02

BRICK HOUSE

When you aren’t enjoying their San Francisco style sourdough, try your hand at baking alongside the best in one of their bread classes.

1 Zenoria Street, SE22; brickhousebread.com

STREET FOOD

MAM Set to take the west London food scene by storm, MAM is inspired by the barbecue street food stalls found all over Vietnam and promises to bring fresh flavours to All Saints Road. MAM is divided between a bar area, which offers a refined cocktail menu, and a dining room adorned with décor reminiscent of the riverside town of Hoi An. 16 All Saints Road, W11 mamlondon.com

03

DOMINIQUE ANSEL

This New York bakery made it way to London nearly a year ago. They offer a sweet and savoury selection including its famous and innovative creation, the Cronut.

17-21 Elizabeth Street, SW1W; dominiqueansellondon.com

04

YEAST BAKERY

AMERICAN STYLE

Stagolee Stagolee’s brings the heart of South American cuisine to London. Inspired by her grandmother’s cooking, chef Ashley James complements the fiery chicken and comfort food with bourbons and moonshines. You'll leave with your stomach full and your heart content.

453 North End Road, SW6; stagolees.co.uk

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Busy with orders during the week, Yeast is only open to the public on Saturdays. Be sure to get your hands on their exquisite hand-made viennoiserie.Westgate Street, E8; yeastbakery.com

05

FABRIQUE

Treat yourself to one of this Swedish bakery’s ever-popular pastries, a fluffy cinnamon bun.

Baked in a stone oven, their hand-made bread will leave you wanting more.

212 Portobello Road, W11; fabrique.co.uk

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:20

OPEN DAYS: 9AM-12PM SAT 7TH OCT AND 9AM-12PM SAT 3RD MARCH Bookings at - www.westonbirt.org/admissions/open-days Day Fee £4,995/term; Boarding Fee £9,750/term.

E: admissions@westonbirt.org T: 01666 881301 www.westonbirt.org WESTONBIRT.indd WBS - Absolutely Mag1 - 210x297h - 3.8.17.indd 1

03/08/2017 14:23 13:50

FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES

Kooky Cooking Wacky, delicious and irresistible takes on British classics from Parlour’s Head Chef Wo r d s J e s s e D u n f o r d W o o d

HALIBUT WITH CITRUS FRUITS & OLIVE OIL MASH Ser ves 6

his book is all about flavour T marriages and contrasting textures. Soft with crunchy, acidic with rich and soothing, raw with cooked. Here we have a lovely bit of steamed fish with some silken olive oil mashed potatoes and citrus fruits to cut through the richness.

I n g r e d i e nt s Olive Oil Mash • 500g potatoes, peeled and chopped • 100ml hot milk • 100g butter, melted, plus an extra 50g • 75ml olive oil • salt and freshly ground black pepper Halibut • 6 x 120g+ halibut portions (you could also use brill, turbot, plaice, cod or even salmon) Assembly • 500g spinach leaves • grated zest and segments of 1 orange, 1 lime, 1 pink grapefruit and 1 white grapefruit; and the juice from the carcass of the fruits

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• olive oil • lime wedges, to serve rock salt, to serve M e th o d 1 Preparing the olive oil mash • Boil the potatoes in pan of salted water, and when cooked, strain them. Mash them, incorporating the hot milk and melted butter, and season well. If you want to get really fancy you could pass it through a fine meshed sieve to help achieve that cheffy, glossy finish.

2 Preparing the halibut • Season the fish on both sides. In a steamer, or over a pan of simmering water (with some lengthways-cut carrots acting as a trivet), steam the fish gently for 3–4 minutes, covered with a lid, until opaque.

3 Assembling the dish • Pan-fry the spinach briefly, adding salt and pepper, until starting to wilt down, then strain through a sieve.

• Chop the fruit segments and add to the juice and zest with a little seasoning.

• Place a tangle of spinach on each plate, then put your fish carefully to one side and scoop some olive oil mash on the other side. Drizzle a little of the chopped citrus fruit vinaigrette over the fish and spinach, and pour a little olive oil over the mashed potatoes. Serve with a wedge of lime if you like, and a sprinkle of rock salt for a salty kick. ◆

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:37

LOOKING FOR CHILDCARE IN WEST LONDON?

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FOOD & DRINK / RECIPES natural sliced shape, or cut out shapes with a cookie cutter to make the pieces all the same size. You need two slices of each piece of veg per person – a total of eight slices per person.

• Place each of the different vegetables in their own bowl. They MUST be marinated separately so that they retain their own vibrant colour and don’t bleed into one another. Whisk together the vinegar, water and salt and pour over the vegetables, little by little, just covering them. If you want to get cheffy, put a little baking parchment over the vegetables to keep them submerged.

Marinate the vegetables in the fridge for an hour or so, or perhaps overnight to make them a little more pliable and ‘ravioli’ like.

2 Preparing the whipped goats’ cheese • I like to peel furry goats’ cheese and perhaps keep the peelings for a boiled up goats’ cheese cream for a pasta or similar. Chop the cheese and whizz it in a food processor with a little milk until it becomes velvety and smooth. Place it in a bowl, or even better (and more professional), in a piping bag for easier application.

3 Preparing the sweet and sour dressing • Combine the ingredients in a bowl and loosen with your favourite dressing.

RAW VEGETABLE ‘RAVIOLI’ WITH GOATS’ CHEESE Ser ves 6 pening a restaurant in Italy, as I did a few years ago, you cannot help but be inspired by the brilliant food there, steeped in tradition and generations of knowledge. This is one of the dishes it inspires. You really have to think of it as a goats’ cheese salad; ravioli it is not, but with a little imagination you might just see the likeness.

O

I n g r e d i e nt s Raw Vegetables • 1 large beetroot • 1 large golden beetroot 1 kohlrabi • 1 swede • 250ml white wine vinegar • 150ml water • 2 pinches of salt

Whipped Goats’ Cheese • 300g goats’ cheese (be it cheap and cheerful or posh and artisanal) about 30ml milk Sweet and Sour Dressing • 50g dried cranberries or sultanas, finely chopped • 50g dried golden raisins or apricots, finely chopped • 50g tiny capers, whole, or large ones finely chopped • 50g shallots, finely chopped 10g chopped parsley Assembly • alfalfa sprouts • hazelnuts • edible flowers M e th o d 1 Preparing the raw vegetables • Peel and slice the vegetables very thinly using a mandoline, or failing that slice them very carefully and thinly with a knife. You could keep them in their

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3 Assembling the dish • Drain the coloured vegetable slices carefully and place on some kitchen towel. Put one slice of each coloured vegetable on each plate and pipe a little whipped goats’ cheese on top. Top with another slice of the same vegetable.

Drizzle a little of the sweet and sour dressing around the mounds of ‘ravioli’, sprinkle with alfalfa sprouts, grate a little hazelnut over the top, and finish with a few edible flowers.◆

Recipes taken from Modern British Food: Recipes from Parlour by Jesse Dunford Wood, published by Absolute Press, £20.

Photography © Lauren McLean

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 12:37

BESPOKE ENGLISH KITCHENS www.connaughtkitchens.co.uk . London

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FOOD & DRINK / REVIEW

title is carefully chosen by Belgravia Books and a different book is available each month. The menu covers all bases, from blueberry porridge with toasted coconut, if you’re feeling virtuous, to Brioche French toast with sautéed bananas, caramel sauce and Cornish clotted cream. We go for the frittata with courgettes, red onions, feta cheese and spicy chorizo sausage; a thick, fluffy egg

Silky eggs are given

Lowndes Bar & Kitchen A new brunch concept in Belgravia Wo r d s H e l e n B r o w n

W

ith the brunch market being more saturated than a slice of sourdough oozing with egg yolk, it’s refreshing to find a place that offers more than just the obligatory avocado. Enter Lowndes Bar & Kitchen. The hotel eatery has partnered with Belgravia Books to create a new Sunday brunch concept, Book and Brunch. Good food and an enthralling page-turner are the makings of a perfectly relaxing Sunday for me, so a stroke of good luck would see me strolling

the sunny streets of Belgravia, stomach rumbling, on my way to review this new Sunday series.

We take a seat out on the back terrace; a morning sun trap clustered with casual seating and verdant greenery. Hidden away from the noise of London, in the midst of this unexpected heat-wave, with sunnies on and crisp prosecco in hand, we really could be in southern France.

The Book and Brunch Sundays series combine the best of Lowndes Bar & Kitchen’s new brunch menu with bottomless tea or coffee, fresh juice and a brand new novel to get stuck into. Each

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A PARMESAN PUNCH

and served on a

STACK OF CLOUDLIKE smoked salmon PANCAKES vehicle carrying the vibrant flavours of the Med. Try as I might - and I did try because it was delicious - this was too big to finish, perhaps the perfect Sunday sharing dish. The hero for us had to be the scrambled eggs and Scottish smoked salmon pancakes with hollandaise sauce; silky, sun-yellow eggs are given a parmesan punch and served atop a stack of cloud-like smoked salmon pancakes. Devine.

We receive a copy of Ann Patchett’s Commonwealth, beautifully wrapped in brown paper and string. Dining with a friend means it goes unread, though I would happily come back, table for one, to soak up the sun and get stuck into the story with another plate of those pancakes.u LOW N D E S B A R & K I TC H E N 21 Lowndes Street, SW1X; lowndesbarandkitchen.co.uk

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 16:34

NEW 2018 CATALOGUE OUT NOW Discover the new 2018 furniture and accessories collection in-store now.

BoConcept is all about making design, furniture and colours fit seamlessly in your home. Whether you need help to design an entirely new home or don’t know which sofa to choose for a room, our professional and friendly interior designers are always on hand to help and will offer you a comprehensive free interior design service.

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DESIGN SPONGE

p.72

GRAHAMANDGREEN.CO.UK

> INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

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absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:07

10

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

of the best

desk lamps

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

IDYLL HOME

Mustard desk lamp, £69 idyllhome.co.uk

NORTHERN LIGHTING Buddy table lamp; £186 skandium.com

GRAHAM AND GREEN Mouse lamp, £60 grahamandgreen.co.uk

must

HAVE

RUME

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Flos Goldman, desk light, £321 rume.co.uk

ALEXANDER AND PEARL Loft Cream Table Lamp alexanderandpearl.co.uk

Anglepoise The winning collaboration between Paul Smith and Anglepoise continues with the release of three new lamps. Available in the established colour palettes, the newcomers Mini and Giant play with scale, creating larger and smaller versions of the standard piece.

anglepoise.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / NOTES

FLORAL FRENZY

Anthropologie When Anthropologie teamed up with Liberty it was clearly going to be a winning relationship. The stylish and quirky range spans furniture, ceramics. We love the Lucia Armchair, pictured, upholstered in a reimagined version of William Morris’s Strawberry Thief print, £1,398. anthropologie.com

LOAF Gaston desk lamp, £115

loaf.com

MADE.COM

Cohen table lamp in blue, £55 made.com

DONNA IDA

Jean Queen Donna Ida Thornton is expanding her denim brand by introducing a candle for AW17. T ‘I’ve Got My Eye On You’ candle will be the first of two candles in a new lifestyle collection set to include lovely loungewear and various home accessories. donnaida.com

POOKY CANTONA Desk Lamp in burnt orange, £98 pooky.com

editor’s

PICK SQUARE DANCE 1882

Lucienne Day’s iconic Flower Brick has been relaunched in a limited edition by design retailer twnetytwentyone and ceramics brand 1882. Pictured is the Brick with a floral arrangement by designer Suzy Hoodless.

1882ltd.com

ATKIN AND THYME

Hettie angled desk lamp in copper, £65 atkinandthyme.co.uk

WILD THINGS

The Lounge Co. Designer Lorna Lucas has joined forces with The Lounge Co. to produce an exclusive range of stunning natureinspired accent chairs. The artist uses wildlife as her muse and has produced three stunning ‘Paradise Bird’ designs.

The Lounge Co.’s sofas and chairs are all hand-crafted in the UK. theloungeco.com

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WILD AND WOOLF

Home office lamp in grey wildandwoolf.com

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:09

Front door restoration specialists As they say - first impressions last. The first thing people notice when visiting your home is the front door. We make sure that the impression is notable by ensuring your door is professionally painted and refurbished to its former beauty.

Fortis & Hooke Wooden Window Restorers

For further information: t: 0800 313 4688 e: info@fortishooke.co.uk www.fortishooke.co.uk

Contact us to book a free consultation and receive an exclusive readers discount F&H.indd 1

18/09/2017 14:04

HOMES & INTERIORS / BATHROOMS

In the

SHELF LIFE...

B AT H R O O M

BEAUTIFUL NEW BOTTLES FOR THE BATHROOM

Style your bathroom with a few simple but fabulous accessories

ATELIER BLOEM William, £160 libertylondon.com

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

H A M M A M L OV E T u r i k s h To w e l s • Hammam towels are highly collectable with their range of colours and weaves. They fold much smaller than regular towels, making them paractical as well as stylish. We love Hammam & Home's luxe arrow print version (£28, right) as well as Bohemia's Inca patterned ones (£36, left). bohemiadesign.co.uk hammamandhome.co.uk

ANGEL SCHLESSER Peonia Rosa, £75 harveynichols.com

editor’s

PICK EIGHT & BOB Champs de Provence, £125 psyche.co.uk

ACQUA DI PARMA

SMALL OBJECTS D e si g n e r To oth br u s h • The Tann toothbrush is designed with shape and colour in mind. Created by Andreas Engesvik, and made for HAY by Norwegian dental specialists Jordan, this everyday item has been reinvented as an interior feature. Moulded from one piece of plastic, it has a simple aesthetic that looks great in any bathroom space. twentytwentyone.com

Colonia Pura, £45 johnlewis.com

LALIQUE Lumiere lalique.com

B AT H S PA S e b a st i a n C o n r a n fo r V it r a • Sebastian Conran's range of freestanding bathroom accessories for VitrA combines teak with chrome for restults that are both hard-wearing and stylish.

We love the handy bath side table, £700. vitra.co.uk

OMOROVICZA Queen of Hungary mist, £25 omorovicza.com

BELLA FREUD 1970, £86 bellafreud.com

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:19

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

Boy TALK When this interiors blogger designed a room for her son, she was aiming for innocence and fun. Here’s her story Wo r d s R U T H M AT T H E W S

C

Neutrals range. I particularly recommend it in north-facing rooms, which is where we’ve always used it, as it brings out the grey tones so beautifully.

I have accumulated quite a bit of Scandi kids stuff since Ted was born, and also a fairly hefty dinosaur and animal collection, so they were the jump points for thinking about how the room may hold together. But it wasn’t until I went on a trip to Dorset for Farrow & Ball's wallpaper launch that I knew exactly how the room would look.

When I saw Gable unveiled, it was a designadrenaline moment for me and there was no question in my mind that this was the right design for Ted’s room. With its charming bucolic rural scene (one that I would happily live with in my own space, perhaps in pink) there’s no design I can think of that’s more joyful or comforting for a bedroom. It has such a cosy feel to it, based on a 1950s design but quite timeless, with a touch of naivety to it. We talk about it often during winding down time in here, Ted likes the animals and will spend ages spotting and

ombining a design that combines joyfulness and the things that your toddler loves can be something of a challenge when you like your style without a heavy dose of plastic attached.

Ted's room has been gently evolving since we moved in 18 months ago. His was the first room we painted (within a fortnight) thanks to the harsh and bright lime green space he’d inherited (see what happens when you let your beloved little person make all the design decisions?) So we neutralised the space with one of my very favourite greys, Farrow & Ball’s Cornforth White, which I’ve now used in three homes and loved the result each time – it's such a perfect colour.

It’s a shade of grey with just a hint of dirt in it, which may sound derogatory but in fact it makes the tone really natural and beautiful.

Farrow & Ball describe it as a hushed, calming colour and it is a part of their Easy

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HOMES & INTERIORS / CHILDREN’S ROOMS

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:20

F o s t e r

&

G a n e

October 3rd - 8th The Decorative Antiques & Textiles

FAIR Stand D17 www.fosterandgane.com

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+44 (0) 7714 269 719

info@fosterandgane.com

22/09/2017 10:07

HOMES & INTERIORS / CHILDREN’S ROOMS There are so many things that Ted loves (plastic aside) that we don’t have any theme in here at all, though there is quite a hefty animal slant. The biggest statement (after the wallpaper) is the central back wall which has had things that we like thrown upon it pretty randomly. But I think it works. The cacti wall hooks and shelf were my decision, but a lot of the pictures have meaning: the vintage Super Ted covers were framed for Ted by my good friend Lucy, there’s a handmade ceramic dinosaur plate called Tedosaurus from Aunty Kathryn, a print in vintage style by children’s illustrator Paul Thulby and a raccoon above Teds pillow that I couldn’t resist putting a party hat on.

I’ve tried to keep a pretty retro feel to the items on the mantelpiece, simplicity in wood and a few more colourful pieces which really pop against the wallpaper.

There’s a bit of a vintage theme going on in the corner that holds Ted’s chest of drawers too, the yellow corner with the old £10 drawers I found on eBay and painted a bright mustard yellow, some vintage children’s books, the 50s style swinging rocket toy and the retro dressed animal plates from West Elm that people always comment on. With my ever growing love for house plants, Ted has an aloe which is good for cleansing the air and a mini terrarium complete with polar bear figurine. 

I didn’t WANT THE SPACE to be too KNOWING OR KITSCH – so it’s just INNOCENCE & fun in here

counting them. The wallpaper is such a statement I didn’t want the design of the rest of the room to argue with it, so I’ve kept everything else pretty pared back in monochromes with the odd flash or colour or fun.

Unlike the rest of the Design Soda house, I didn’t want the space to be too knowing or kitsch so it’s just innocence and fun in here. A mix between vintage wood and Scandinavian toys that I bought when he was really tiny and more colourful fun pieces that I’ve updated in the room as he gets older.

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R u t h M at t h e w s blogs at designsoda.co.uk

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:21

0800 860 0916

www.pvad.co.uk

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W W W. P V A D . C O . U K 0800 860 0916

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Grate Expectations - A Family run business established for over 30 years The UK’s leading suppliers of luxury gas fireplaces, wood burning stoves and bioethanol fires manufactured by DRU, Spartherm, Ebios, Dik Guerts, Gazco, Stovax and many more.

1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road, Wimbledon Chase, SW20 8JT 020 8540 8387 | sales@grateexpectations.com | grateexpectations.com

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HOMES & INTERIORS / TREND MIA FLEUR Gold whisk, £18; miafleur.com HOUSE BY JOHN LEWIS Orb mechanical scale, £10; johnlewis.com

LE CREUSET Stoneware mixing jug, £35; lecreuset.co.uk

RICE Heart-shaped silicone spoons, £6; sistersguild.co.uk

COMFORT Delicious Bakes and Family Treats by Candice Brown is published by Ebury Press, £20

CANDICE BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLIS PARRINDER

RICHARD BRENDON Cake stand in Marrs Green, £165; richardbrendon.com

ANTHROPOLOGIE Cat study apron, £28; anthropologie.com

TAKE THE CAKE

KITCHENAID Artisan Stand Mixer, £549; kitchenaid.co.uk

THORNBACK & PEEL Jelly and cake oven glove, £25; thornback&peel.co.uk

With the return of The Great British Bake Off, we round up some stylish baking essentials

By PENDLE HARTE

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RICE Silicone baking molds, £8.99; ricebyrice.co.uk

absolutely.london

12. COS Swimsuit With Tie

21/09/2017 17:22

loom

BAND London is weaving again. A craft that died over 70 years ago is back in the capital.

Absolutely investigates Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D Photography JA MES GARDINER

T

he ambitious London Cloth Company, formed in 2012 by maverick master weaver Daniel Harris, is bringing back to London a unique tradition that vanished during the interwar years.

In Hackney, the traditional cloth trading district, Daniel rescued seven vintage looms and singlehandedly rebuilt them by hand over a two-year period. These extraordinary machines date from

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Every Londoner DESERVES the choice to BUY CLOTH that is woven in THEIR CITY the 1880s up to the 1970s and were left to rot in warehouses and barns throughout Britain and Ireland.

Daniel says: “These machines capture the real essence of vintage weaving that simply can’t be achieved with modern machines.

They are living history and every metre woven is another chapter in the story”.

The company made an impressive start, weaving unique cloths for major players in fashion, film and opera. They have now teamed up with contemporary home and accessories brand Lane to create a unique rope-dyed indigo collection of stylish soft furnishings and accessories. Lane designer and creative director Joff Casciani says: “taking this vintage process and cloth and bringing it to life in a contemporary collection that is relevant to a modern lifestyle is really exciting. Why can’t we preserve the crafts of yesterday?

Everything we make is made in the UK, so it’s great to work with cloth that is woven in the capital. Every Londoner deserves the choice to buy cloth that is woven in their city rather than cloth that has travelled thousands of miles. With such heavy pollution in the capital, Londoners are all too aware of the

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HOMES & INTERIORS / LANE WEAVING

need to be more sustainable and they deserve to have the choice”.

With over 90% of all cloth sold in London coming from the Far East or abroad, this collaboration unites a new wave in manufacturing with the creativity for which the UK is known. london was once a hotbed of manufacturing but over the last 50 years it has been in slow decline – factories and workshops have been replaced by high tech and banking, marginalising london’s craftspeople. joff explains: “this is the reality of commerce in london. however, small brands like ours and small manufacturers like london cloth need to work together and work smarter. britain is great at design but in post-brexit britain that simply won’t be enough. making and designing together is the future”. 

THE LANE X LONDON CLOTH COMPANY collection is available from lanebypost.com/lanexlondoncloth

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:23

OPEN OPEN DAY DAY 2017 2017 Saturday Saturday77October October9.30am 9.30am

PLEASE PLEASECONTACT CONTACTUS USTO TOBOOK BOOKAAPLACE PLACE

www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk www.parsonsgreenprep.co.uk Parsons ParsonsGreen GreenPrep Prep 11Fulham FulhamPark ParkRoad Road London LondonSW6 SW64LJ 4LJ T:T:020 0207610 76108085 8085 E:E:admissions@parsonsgreenprep.co.uk admissions@parsonsgreenprep.co.uk

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22/09/2017 16:48

HOME & INTERIORS / FIRE PLACES

G

ETERNAL FLAME

Nothing beats an open fire for warmth and atmosphere. Absolutely meets Grate Expectations Wo r d s E v e H e r b e r t

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rate Expectations fireplace specialists have been established for over 25 years and remain a family business.

Come and visit our newly refurbished showrooms in Wimbledon, where you can view a range of working models from the best fire and stove manufacturers around. Whether you are interested in a high efficiency gas fire by DRU or a wood burner to give your home a cosy rustic charm our team are on hand to offer expert, friendly advice.

Dru Gas Fires are the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of glass fronted high efficiency fires. Designed to add that touch of class and sophistication to your living space. With many options in conventional and balanced flue (no chimney…no problem!) — and even the ability to create your own flame design on your iPad or phone!

When looking for a truly elegant focal point to your room that is stylish minimal and in keeping with characteristics, DRU offer many design choices and integration options. Whether a gas stove or a see-through built-in glass fireplace in an interior wall, the heat output generated by DRU Fires add a warmth and ambiance to your home. Our showroom has many live working DRU Fires on display, so drop in for an expert consultation and demonstration with our team.

Wood Burning Stoves Summer has come and gone, and with Christmas just around the corner, what better way to warm up your home than with a woodburning stove. With twice the efficiency of the traditional open fire, wood burning stoves are a cleaner and more economical option. Our range of manufacturers consist of DG Fires, Jotul, Stovax and many more. Majority of the wood burners we supply and install are Defra approved suitable for London smoke control areas.

For expert advice on purchasing a fireplace or stove and installation services please contact Grate Expectations Fireplace Specialists: 1-3 Station Buildings, Kingston Road Wimbledon Chase, London, SW20 8JT 020 8540 8387, sales@grateexpectations.com grateexpectations.com

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:23

See life in a new light New Pirouette® Shades from Luxaflex® The unique design of our Pirouette® Shades features soft fabric vanes which gently filter light and control privacy. And PowerView® Motorisation also lets you operate your shades with one tap of your smart phone, tablet or remote control.

Find out more at luxaflex.co.uk

LUXAFLEX® SHOWROOMS: Ashtead Interiors Ashtead 01372 275037 | Belle Vue Blinds Egham 01784 471122 Curtain Call Richmond 0208 332 6250 | Gilroy Interiors Gerrards Cross 01753 899007

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22/09/2017 10:00

HOMES & INTERIORS / COLOUR WALLACE SEWELL

Celebrating 25 years of their stylish textile collaboration, Harriet Wallace-Jones and Emma Sewell showed their graphic weaves at designjunction ahead of their solo show at the Fashion and Textile Museum in October.

wallacesewell.com

LIFE IN

COLOUR At the London Design Festival, colour emerged as a major trend Wo r d s E v e H e r b e r t

C

olour will never get old. For the London Design Festival, Farrow and Ball wrapped a fleet of black taxis in their brightly coloured wallpaper designs.

Decorated from boot to bonnet with rich textures and expressive patterns, the taxis were dotted about the city at LDF venues and Farrow & Ball showrooms. Colour and bold graphic designs abounded throughout the event, with angular squares and stripes recurring everywhere as graphics and bold brights made their presence felt.

The message? Don't be afraid of the shade. Colour is very much on trend at the moment. Here are some of our favourite new discoveries from last month's design festival. â—†

SQ UAR E DAN CE

Pipet's new range of accessories made a splash at designjunction.

SO F T FOCU S

SQUARE PEGS

In her studio in West Yorkshire, Anna-Lisa Smith designs simple, striking contemporary textiles for the home. All pieces are woven in local mills using the finest quality Lambswool and are hand finished in the studio. anna-lisasmith.com

Lara GĂśrlach is a printed textile designer specialising in the traditional craft of silk screen-printing. She offers a bespoke screen-printing service focusing on translating patterns onto textiles for seasonal collections of interior, home and lifestyle products.

laragorlach.com

O M K 196 5

These classic chairs originally designed by Rodney kinsman for Habitat were reissued, with new designs, at designjunction.

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:25

B OAR D I N G & DAY SCH OO L FO R G I R L S AG E D 11 TO 1 8

“I chose

Mayfield” 50 MINUTES FROM CENTRAL LONDON BY TRAIN • WEEKEND RETURN BUS TO LONDON SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL SUSSEX COUNTRYSIDE EXEMPLARY PASTORAL CARE & NURTURING ENVIRONMENT OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC RESULTS • SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE EXTENSIVE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUESTRIAN CENTRE ON CAMPUS JENNIFER GANDY

REGISTRAR@MAYFIELDGIRLS.ORG

01435 874642

WWW.MAYFIELDGIRLS.ORG

Open Mornings MAYFIELD.indd 1

TUESDAY 7 TH NOVEMBER 2017 TUESDAY 13 TH MARCH 2018 THURSDAY 26 TH APRIL 2018

22/09/2017 15:11

> SMALL TALK: SLIPPERS, SUSHI & SPOOKY GAMES

p.89

FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR THE HALF TERM HOLIDAY p.92

ETHICS FOR TOTS It's always good when fashion has a conscience, and the creator of children’s wear brand Velveteen certainly has just that. Laura Egloff is a huge supporter of Fairtrade and much of her beautiful collection is made by mothers who would otherwise be unable to provide for and educate their children. velveteenclothing.com

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:26

Kensington Park School is a new independent school for boys and girls aged 11–18 in the heart of London. Whilst the school is new, its leadership and teachers have long, successful track-records at some of the best independent schools in the country with the core teaching team coming from St Paul’s School.

KPS is committed to academic excellence combined with strong pastoral care.

The school has developed an extensive offering of sports and co-curricular activities, making full use of the world-class facilities in and around its West London home.

KPS combines the best of British independent education with a genuinely international outlook and has strong academic, cultural

“

and social links with partners around the

Pupils benefit from some of the most experienced teachers in the country.

”

world at both school and university level.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Dick Jaine, Director of Education

A NEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IN THE HEART OF LONDON registrar@kps.co.uk • www.kps.co.uk • 0207 225 0577

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15/09/2017 12:47

KIDS & EDUCATION / NOTES CREATURE COMFORT

BOOK R EV I EW

Mini Rodini

Forget the horrible polyester Halloween costume and bundle your babe in Mini Rodini's fabulous new puffy bat jacket instead. It's warm, cosy and spooky too. minirodini.com

GREATEST ANIMAL TALES

SMALL TALK Slippers, sushi, animal tales and spooky games...

ROLL BABY ROLL

Yo ! S u s h i Yo! Sushi runs sushi-making classes for children during half term and school holidays and they're simple, satisfying and fun. Tots get to make their own cucumber maki, California rolls and salmon sushi and come away with a certificate to commemmorate their efforts. yosushi.com

I

n this handsome book, Michael Morpurgo has collected together some of the animal stories that he grew up with and loved, from Brer Rabbit and the Ugly Duckling, to Puss in Boots and The Fox and the Crow. They are retold by some of the finest children’s writers of today and each one is illustrated in full colour by a talented illustrator. The tellings are fresh, direct and absorbing.

Morpurgo himself tells the story of Peter and the Wolf and does so with typical robustness, grabbing young readers’ attention in the opening line and holding it to the very end. This is a collection to fan the imaginations of a new generation of readers.. ◆

COLD SNAP

INTO THE WOODS

Mahabis ¢ Draughty floorboards?

No problem, thanks to Mahabis, the only slippers that can really claim to be as stylish as they are comfortable. The kids' versions are miniature versions of the adult ones and they're (almost) guaranteed to stay on little feet.

T h e H o l l o w Wo o d s ¢ This clever card game invites children to invent their own scenarios as they rearrange picture cards in infinite different sequences. ◆ £14.99, laurenceking.com

◆ mahabis.com

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Chosen by Michael Morpurgo £9.99, OUP

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:26

The Leading Boarding and Day School for Girls aged 4 - 18

Curiosity • Creativity • Challenge

Your story starts here...

Open Morning 3rd February 2018 Direct train link from London Paddington to Great Malvern Register now for a place in 2018 Generous scholarships and bursaries available To reserve your place please visit www.malvernstjames.co.uk/open-morning admissions@malvernstjames.co.uk Tel: 01684 584624 MALVERN.indd 1

22/09/2017 11:28

KIDS & EDUCATION / FASHION

THE MAKING OF US Absolutely quizzes Philippa Cloete and Kate Please, founders of new girlswear label Outside the Lines Wo r d s h o l ly k i r k w o o d

ABSOLUTELY MAMA: How and why did you launch Outside the Lines?

OUTSIDE THE LINES: Our other halves have been close friends for years, and we fell into a natural friendship. We initially had the idea sitting in a restaurant in Paris brainstorming ideas. We wanted to create a brand that doesn’t compromise on quality but also doesn’t break the bank. The name Outside the Lines comes from the ethos that it’s ok for children to colour ‘outside the lines’; essentially to be creative and develop their own unique style.

COSY KNITS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER '17

AM: What made you want to design for children?

OTL: As parents ourselves to two girls (Philippa) and two boys (Kate), we dreamt of working together to create our own childrenswear label. We always loved kids’ fashion but struggled to find good quality, stylish pieces for our own children which were still accessible. We are big fans of soft muted colours and the little finishing details that really make clothes stand out.

AM: What are the motivations or inspirations behind the designs?

OTL: The Autumn/Winter collection features our signature embellishments, trims and intricate detailing. Highlights include the black lace trim swing dress,

everywhere we go. The skill is to pull all of them together to create an aesthetic that appeals to our customer.

LAYERING IS A KEY LOOK

the navy faux fur coat, the tapestry fringed jacket, plisse skirts in midnight or gold, the tribal print sweatshirt and the plush faux fur sweat.

AM: What inspires you?

OTL: We are constantly inspired by our

travels. Whether that’s trinkets in a market in Dehli, bolts of gorgeously coloured fabrics or a stunning glass ceiling in an old railway station.Beautiful things inspire us every day.

AM: Would you say your aesthetic is very

THE DESIGNERS AT WORK

British, or do you get a lot of inspiration from international styles?

OTL: Our taste is very British but we are naturally absorbing influences from

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AM: How do you balance work and parenthood?

OTL: We actually started the brand as a direct result of needing more flexible work/ home life. We are both in the same situation and life is a constant juggle but we make it work and wouldn’t have it any other way.

AM: What are your aspirations for the

next couple of years for Outside the Lines?

OTL: We hope to see the girlswear collection grow; we are now stocked in 11 countries worldwide and this is another area we would like to develop on.

We are also always being asked for women’s versions of the girls range, so maybe that'll be the next thing we tackle. u outside-the-lines.co.uk

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 17:28

XXXXXX / XXXXXXX

BIG DAY OUT London’s offering of entertainment for the autumn half-term holiday Wo r d s H e l e n B r o w n

PA L AC E P O LTE RG E I ST S

28 October Hampton Court Palace his Halloween, for one night only, Hampton Court Palace will hold an exclusive late night tour that will take you further into the deepest and darkest secrets of the palace. Scare yourself with stories of ghostly apparitions and paranormal activities, and uncover the horrible history of this iconic landmark.  Molesey, KT8; hrp.org.uk

T

PU M PK I N PATC H

From 1 October Hewitts Farm ewitts Farm have a pumpkin patch prime for picking up the perfect Halloween treat. This family run business set in 78 acres grows a wide variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year but expands its offering to include pumpkins during the trick-or-treating season. Don’t forget the wellies.  Court Road, BR6; hewittsfarm.co.uk

H ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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KIDS & EDUCATION / HALF TERM Discover the Dark Arts 1 O ctober • 12 November Warner B ros. S tudio Tour Discover the filming secrets behind enchanting pumpkins, duels, snot, blood and drool. This autumn fans of Death Eaters and Halloween feasts are invited to delve deeper than ever into the Dark Arts of the magical world of Harry Potter. A must for all aspiring witches and wizards.

Leavesden, WD25; wbstudiotour.co.uk

L AI K A TH E S PAC E DO G

24 September • 12 November Unicorn Theatre n 1957 Laika the space dog was the first living creature to orbit the earth. Now it’s 2057 and Sami the astronaut is looking to follow in his footsteps. She understands there might be a better future out in space, but her life is down here. And so she must face the prospect of letting go in this moving sci-fi adventure, inventively and beautifully told using puppetry, movement and music.  147 Tooley Street, SE1; unicorntheatre.com

I S K ATE D I N E , B OW L

Ongoing QUEENS S kate, D ine, Bowl UEENS, London’s one stop shop for thrillseeking fun welcomes families to the rink for an exhilarating skating session. In the past, renowned figure skating Fumie Suguri shared her brilliance with adults and children, from beginners to advanced skaters.  17 Queensway, W2; queens.london

Q

WHALES

B E N E AT H T H E S U R FA C E

Ongoing Natural Histor y Museum ive through one of the world’s most compelling evolutionary journeys to explore the extraordinary lives of whales. More than 100 specimens from the museum’s collection will be on display together for the first time to take you back 50 million years to the beginning of the evolution of the whale. See how they became sociable aquatic mammals, explore their environments and learn how they are similar to us.  Cromwell Road, SW7; mhm.ac.uk

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 16:56

A leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 5 to 18 in Scotland.

EVERYDAY IS AN OPEN DAY Exceptional academic results Excellent modern facilities Hockey, tennis and swimming academies Outstanding pastoral care Member of the Sacred Heart Network Scotland’s only school equestrian centre Over 50 extra-curricular activities Bus Network across Perthshire Bursaries and scholarships available

To find out more, request a prospectus, or to arrange a visit, please contact Admissions: admissions@kilgraston.com or call 01738 812 257.

www.kilgraston.com

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30/08/2017 12:18

KIDS & EDUCATION / SCHOOL TALK

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Prospect House School has a simply philosophy; a happy child is happy to learn

E

very child develops more readily when that child feels safe, secure and valued. Every child needs a champion, and I make sure that all my teachers fight for each child that walks through the door.

Prospect House’s pupils thrive in a warm atmosphere where humour and laughter go hand in hand with serious study. Teaching must seem effortless, as though the children are learning without realising they are doing so because they are having so much fun at the same time. In Year 6 when the children build a go-kart, they think they are being rewarded for working hard for their 11+ exams but in fact they are learning maths, physics, engineering and teamwork, all while getting a healthy dose of fresh air.

I have spent my whole career teaching, starting out in South Africa; maybe it was my outdoor upbringing that has given me my love of sport. I cycled the last leg of the Pedal for Podge Ride (Cambridge to London) to help raise money for The Change Foundation, a foundation that helps to change children’s lives through sport and dance.

I believe that every child is great at something, and that great teachers can help find what this is to develop the child’s talents. Every small success leads to greater self-confidence and self-belief. In the competitive world in which children are growing up today, self-worth is more important than ever.

The hallmark of a Prospect House child is enthusiasm and the confidence

Wo r d s M i c h a e l H o d g e

My teachers

FIGHT FOR EACH CHILD that WALKS THROUGH the door to be self-reliant. You only have to watch the children singing their hearts out at the summer concert or producing highly accomplished plays to know that this is true. The standard of music at Prospect House is outstanding, with numerous opportunities for children to develop their singing and instrumental playing. There

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is a senior choir and chamber choir, and musicals in recent years include My Fair Lady, West Side Story and The Sound of Music. Most children in the school learn an instrument, and as well as a large school orchestra there is a wind ensemble, string ensemble, brass ensemble, cello ensemble, Suzuki violin ensemble, guitar ensemble, clarinet ensemble and Year 6 chamber ensemble.

Sheila Hudson, head of the Lower School, ably assists me; her wonderfully kind and reassuring demeanour supports the school’s younger children (and their parents) in finding their feet at school. Filling my shoes, as deputy head, is new arrival Deborah Lane, a Cornell and Cambridge graduate whose many years’ teaching experience in the primary sector will undoubtedly add another layer to the richness of Prospect House.

Many schools expect high academic standards from their pupils, as does Prospect House, but it also places great value on effort and developing each child’s confidence, which ensures the pupils have the right tools to succeed.

A quick glance at the school’s website shows that Prospect House pupils won 18 scholarships last year, so the balance of work and fun seems to be paying off.

I am proud of this achievement but I am even more proud that the children at Prospect House love coming into school – and love coming back from their senior schools to visit. PROSPECT HOUSE SCHOOL 75 Putney Hill, SW15; prospecths.org.uk

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 16:54

JOHN HALL HALL VENICE VENICE JOHN

London’s Premier International Bilingual School Day Nursery | Early Years | Junior School | Senior School

EIFA Senior School is offering a one year or two year IGCSE certificate course including the following subjects. English, French, Spanish, Maths, Sciences, Art and History.

Call: +44 (0)20 7637 5351 email gp@ecole-ifa.com or visit us at ecole-ifa.com to find out more.

EIFA.indd 1

More than than just just art art history history More

• The renowned pre-university gap year course in London, Venice, Florence • The renowned pre-university gap year course in London, Venice, Florence and Rome for students of the Arts and Sciences – a life-changing and and Rome for students of the Arts and Sciences – a life-changing and unforgettable experience unforgettable experience • Art, literature, music, world cinema, global issues, cookery, life drawing • Art, literature, music, world cinema, global issues, cookery, life drawing and photography and photography • Make friends for life and live as an insider in the • Make friends for life and live as an insider in the most beautiful city in the world. most beautiful city in the world.

+44 (0) 20 8871 4747 +44 (0) 20 8871 4747 info@johnhallvenice.com info@johnhallvenice.com www.johnhallvenice.com www.johnhallvenice.com

JOHNHALL.indd 1 22/09/2017 14:11

22/09/2017 09:33

Hawkesdown House School

For boys aged 3 to 8 years Endeavour Courage Truth

27 Edge Street, Kensington, London W8 7PN Telephone: 0207 727 9090 Email: admin@hawkesdown.co.uk www.hawkesdown.co.uk

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21/09/2017 17:17

22/09/2017 16:00

ABSOLUTELY / PROMOTION

A PERFECT GEM An education at one of Ireland’s top boarding schools for boys

G

lenstal Abbey School stands out as one of the leading boarding schools in Ireland for boys aged 12-18.

Situated in County Limerick, in the heart of Munster, Glenstal Abbey is only 40 minutes drive from Shannon Airport and just over two hours from Dublin Airport.

Glenstal is a small school with small classes; there are approximately 250 students divided into groups mostly of 12 to 16 pupils, in line with the clear policy and academic vision of the school.

A Catholic school, Glenstal welcomes students from all traditions and sees itself as a partner with parents in the formation and nurturing of its students in a climate of learning.

Each student at Glenstal is encouraged to fulfill his potential. The school’s ethos is grounded in the values of reverence,

Academia, pastoral care, SPORT, ART AND MUSIC A re seamlessly woven into THE EDUCATIONAL FABRIC

Year 11 pupils at Glenstal Abbey

respect and responsibility drawn from a long monastic tradition.

The Irish Department of Education and Skills recently completed a whole school evaluation on the management, leadership and learning at Glenstal Abbey School.

The report warmly endorsed the school’s academic, pastoral, sporting, art and music programmes: “All these aspects of the students’ experience appear to be woven into a fabric of care, support and pedagogy to nurture the academic, social and personal development of the students while in the care of the school.”

Glenstal has regularly topped The Sunday Times ‘Parent Power’ survey over the last 10 years. These tables are based on the percentage of students progressing to universities.

There is no better way for parents to discover what life is like for a students here than to explore the school and its grounds for themselves. u

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The annual boarding fee is in the order of €23,500 For further information about Glenstal Abbey School see www.glenstal.com email admissions@glenstal.com or telephone +35361621044

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:31

OPERA AFTERNOON TEA

Visit the Chinoiserie lounge at Jumeirah Carlton Tower and enjoy an operatic afternoon tea. Indulge in an array of savouries and pastries inspired by the opera houses and cities which are featured in the latest Victoria and Albert Museum exhibition - Opera: Passion, Power and Politics.

Accompanied by a ticket to the exhibition, an MP3 player preloaded with pieces from the seven different operas and a Don Giovanni cocktail, this tea is available 3pm to 6pm until 19 November. To reserve your table call 020 7858 7738 or email JCTdining@jumeirah.com.

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22/09/2017 10:02

> VIETNAMESE ISLAND ESCAPE: SIX SENSES CON DAO p.100 A CHIC CITY BREAK IN MILAN p.107

FOOTSTEPS IN THE SAND Get away from the hubbub of urban life on the deserted dunes of Six Senses Con Dao, the Vietnamese island paradise with an eco-friendly heart.

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absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:32

PARADISE LOST Discover the deserted bays and eco luxury of Six Senses Con Dao Wo r d s j oy m o n t g o m e r y

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

W e arrive at Six Senses Con Dao after ten long days traversing the north of Vietnam. As anyone who has witnessed the bustling, moped-flooded streets of Hoi An and Hanoi will know, serious sensory overload is the order of the day. Vibrant, eclectic and humming with life, yes. Relaxing? Not so much.

Just try crossing the road. Immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of Vietnam’s busy thoroughfares was amazing, but by the end of those ten days we were in serious need of some space. Enter Six Senses.

Con Dao is a group of 16 islands off the southeast coast of Vietnam, famous for their Robinson Crusoe-like seclusion.

The Six Senses is located on Con Son, the largest of the islands, known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs and luscious forests.

To get to our destination we board a small, propeller-driven plane that carries us away from Ho Chi Minh City and across the cloud-flecked sea to the island’s tiny airport. We find ourselves, both physically and mentally, leaving the busyness of the city behind.

We’re met at the airport by a Six

Senses representative who escorts us to the resort - a quick 20 minute drive along the island’s only road. Staying true to the Six Senses’ philosophy of discovering areas of outstanding natural beauty, the resort is located on a breathtaking piece of land, tucked between rolling hills on its own stretch of private beach. Protected as a national and marine park, it is the archipelago’s first five-star offering. It’s a testament to the hotel’s eco credentials that we struggle to spot it as we trundle along the bumpy coastal road, as the natural, timber-clad exterior is barely discernible against the forested backdrop.

We are given a glass of juice and fresh fruit on arrival, before being introduced to our Guest Experience Manager.

Available 24 hours a day, the GEMs are there to see to the needs of each villa.

Want to book dinner in the nearby town? Sorted.

Fancy a sunrise yoga session? No problem.

Our lovely GEM Ngoc gives us a whistle-stop tour of the resort’s main thoroughfare, which is composed of pretty wood-panelled buildings that house a shop, reception, ice cream parlour (free ice cream is served from 11am to 6pm) and bar area.

Made up of 50 highly private villas, the resort exudes the charm of a traditional fishing village with all the mod cons of a contemporary hotel. Our villa, which is a short buggy ride from the reception, is laid out over two floors. Upstairs is an airy, light-filled bedroom with stunning views over the bay, and downstairs, a dressing room-cum-bathroom that leads

We find ourselves, both PHYSICALLY & MENTALLY, LEAVING the busyness of THE CITY BEHIND

VIEWS ACROSS THE SIX SENSES' DESERTED BAY

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absolutely.london

21/09/2017 16:49

JAMAICA • ANTIGUA • SAINT LUCIA • BAHAMAS • GRENADA • BARBADOS

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Unlimited Water Sports

22/09/2017 12:39

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

SEA VIEW FROM THE BEDROOM

SIX SENSES' PEACEFUL SPA

to an outdoor rain shower. Out front we discover our own private infinity pool, complete with tall bamboo walls that offer total privacy from the neighbours. If you need further proof of the hotel’s private appeal, Brad and Angelina have been known to holiday here with the kids. We kick off our shoes and lean on the balcony as the sun dips behind the hills, casting long shadows across the deserted beach.

It may look languorous but a plethora of activities, for both adults and kids, is available for those who want the full island experience - although rotating from bed to pool to sun lounger is, of course, very much encouraged. With Con Dao considered one of the best examples of marine conservation in the country, snorkelling is a great way to spend an afternoon. From the comfort of our boat (we’re joined by only a handful of

SUNSET AT THE POOL

Lit by FLICKERING LANTERNS, the tables spill out ONTO THE BEACH’S wooden promenade other Six Senses guests) we explore the crystal waters and marvel at the colourful marine life and 340 species of coral.

Although you could happily spend a week within the perimeters of this island paradise, the resort encourages guests to experience local life and provides a daily shuttle service and guided historical tour of the nearby town. You can’t wander the streets of Con Son without noticing the looming presence of the 11 derelict prisons which haunt the island. Our tour guide takes us around Phu Hai, the oldest and largest of the jails, which dates back to 1862. They’re hard stories to hear, but it’s an important snapshot of Vietnam’s tumultuous history. The tour finishes at the Hàng Dương Cemetery, a sprawling memorial garden where some 20,000 Vietnamese prisoners are buried.

Peaceful and beautiful, it’s an antidote to the harrowing darkness of the cells. We’re shown the famous grave of Võ Thị Sáu, the first woman to be executed by firing squad in 1952.

We return to the resort and enjoy a relaxing dinner back at The Market, one of the Six Senses’ two eateries. With laidback, open-air vibes and delectable local cuisine, we tuck into a plethora of mouth-

103 Chis_Oct17_Vietnam.indd 103

watering traditional dishes. Our meal is topped off by a drink at the hotel’s second and more formal offering, By the Beach.

Lit by flickering lanterns, the tables spill out onto the beach’s wooden promenade and we relish the stunning panoramic views of the moonlit mountains.

Our last day arrives all too quickly and we indulge in a lingering breakfast at the beach-front restaurant, making the most of the sumptuous spread available - from American pancakes to traditional Vietnamese Pho and everything inbetween. Our final stop is the Six Senses Spa, a bamboo-clad sanctuary located at the far end of the resort. The spa houses four treatment rooms and a yoga and meditation pavilion, all overlooking the Lo Voi mountains and glistening bay, and offers a wide range of therapeutic treatments.

We opt for the Herbal Poultices massage, a 90-minute treatment to soothe city-weary souls (guilty as charged). Starting with a foot wash and head massage, we’re treated by two therapists to an Ayurvedic massage using homemade oils. This is followed by another 30 minutes of herbal massage using homegrown herbal poultices soaked in warm oil. A truly indulgent way to end our stay at the Six Senses Con Dao. It is with heavy hearts that we leave our villa and start the long journey back to the city. We catch one last glance of that unforgettable view as the plane takes off, before our Vietnamese island paradise becomes a dot on the horizon. u S I X S E N S E S C O N DAO Scott Dunn offers seven nights at Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam from £2,400 per person. This is based on a couple sharing an Ocean View Duplex on a B & B basis, and includes return international flights and private airport transfers.

For more information visit scottdunn.com or call 020 8682 5060.

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 16:50

Introducing the Private Rooms at Michelin Starred Outlaw’s at The Capital.

Masterminded by renowned seafood chef Nathan Outlaw.

Groups of 10 or more enjoy a complimentary Champagne Cocktail Reception, November 2017 - January 2018, simply mention upon enquiry.

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www.capitalhotel.co.uk 22/09/2017 09:59

TRAVEL / UK GETAWAY THE HOTEL

D

ating back to 1322, the historic Down Hall Country House Hotel and Spa makes a striking first impression. Sitting on 110 acres of gardens and woodland near Bishop’s Stortford, the hotel is only 45 minutes from central London, so ideal for a weekend away.

Embracing the traditional opulence of manor house style, the recently refurbished hotel offers romance in abundance - chandeliers, oil paintings and decadent furnishings aplenty - alongside all the mod cons and comforts of a contemporary hotel.

Our modern yet cosy room (one of the hotel’s 99) is a peaceful sanctuary, with a luxurious marble-clad bathroom and views over the stunning gardens.

The rooms are clearly the standout feature of the refurb and we enjoy the expert balance of traditional heritage fabrics and classic wooden furniture with designled accents and plush comforts.

DOWN HALL H AT F I E L D H E AT H , E S S E X Wo r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

THE FOOD

THE SPA

T

he Grill Room is the hotel’s AA Rosette awarded restaurant specialising in Anglo French cuisine. Despite being slightly distracted by the restaurant’s placing (next to a busy thoroughfare intermittently filled with passing wedding guests) we were blown away by the food. Highlights included an octopus carpaccio starter with burnt lemon mayonnaise, a main of pork belly with mash, butternut, quince, sprout leaves and crackling, and a beautifully presented pudding of milk chocolate delice.

T

he brand new Eden Spa is one of the highlights of the weekend.

Compact yet beautifully designed, facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room, wellness power showers, relaxation and treatment rooms.

After sampling each of the spa’s areas, we opt for the back, face and scalp treatment with hot stones: a decadent 90 minute treatment with the spa’s expert beauty therapist. We are quickly transported to blissful realms of relaxation.

THE DAMAGE ROOMS START FROM £109 Down Hall Country House Hotel, Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS, 012 7973 1441, www. downhall.co.uk

105 CHIS_OCT17_UK Getaway.indd 105

absolutely.london

22/09/2017 15:34

NOT JUST A PRETTY PICTURE...

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20/06/2017 16:42

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

A PATH LESS TRODDEN As the fashion capital of the world, Milan often gets overlooked as a holiday destination, but there is much to be discovered amongst the glitz and the glamour Wo r d s H e l e n b r o w n

107 Chis_October17_ Milan_Turns.indd 107

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 16:44

Tucked away near Hyde Park Corner lies The Caledonian Club; a Scottish private member’s club offering couples a unique and intimate setting for your special day. Accommodating up to 150 guests for a wedding breakfast with 39 bedrooms available, the Club can also offer weekend exclusivity of all their private banqueting rooms.

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

Y

ou’ll find Rome, Venice and Tuscany occupying the top spots of many people’s bucket list, but despite the elegance and prestige its name carries - especially amongst the fashion pack - Milan barely gets a look in as a holiday destination. As the fifth most largely populated city in the EU, there’s no case to be made for it being a hidden gem. However from our short, sweet citybreak we see there’s a sense that it is only just beginning to realise its potential.

We base ourselves at the Mandarin Oriental, comprised of four elegant 18th century buildings just steps from La Scala. For us, on the hunt to unearth the city’s rich culture, this is perfect. Our deluxe room is spacious and boasts a seating area, desk, hardwood flooring and contemporary décor. The bathroom is fabulous, with white marble and powerful rainforest showers, while the bed is as comfortable as a cloud and guarantees a restful night’s sleep following a full day of sightseeing.

From there, Milan’s spectacular Duomo - one of the largest cathedrals in the world - is near enough on your doorstep.

This dominant landmark stands at the heart of the city, with streets sprawling out and away. The construction started in the late 1300s and took almost 600 years to complete what became a behemoth cathedral; it’s a sight to behold in pinkhued marble with a forest of spires soaring skyward. As well as exploring the inside, we paid a small fee to take a fascinating trip to the Duomo’s roof. It’s incredible to walk among the forest of spires and the view from the roof is unmatched. On a clear day you can see as far as the Alps and Apennines.

If it’s clothes you came for, then you needn’t wander far. Serious shoppers will have a hole burning in their pockets as they stand beneath the glorious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Facing each other

THERE’S A sense that it is only just BEGINNING TO REALISE its

potential

across the central hall of the four-story double arcade are superstore outlets for Prada, Versace and Louis Vuitton, while Gucci and Armani are also housed within the architecturally-astounding complex.

Those fashion giants could be classed as budget in comparison to the stores on the nearby Via della Spiga. The unremarkable avenue is comfortably Milan’s most

109 Chis_October17_ Milan_Turns.indd 109

prestigious and upscale shopping street – Versace’s first fashion show took place in a garage there, and since then it’s become a Mecca for millionaires. The narrow, trafficfree road is flanked by expensive label names such as Brunello Cucinelli, I Pinco Pallino, and Fabiana Filippi.

The other “F” that Milan is known for is food. Under the watchful eye of acclaimed chef Antonio Guida, the Mandarin Oriental’s two Michelin-starred Italian restaurant Seta is undoubtedly one of the city's most talked-about dining destinations. Guida's cooking draws heavily from Italian tradition but is given a modern, slightly Oriental twist highlighted by his extensive use of seaweed and spices.

The Mandarin Bar & Bistro stands as the beating heart of the hotel; a dramatic space with walls and floor carpeted in black and white marble mosaic. With

absolutely.london

21/09/2017 16:44

C at K 2017 Absolutely Oct A4 _Layout 1 11/09/2017 12:30 Page 1

Christmas at Kew

As twilight falls, the magic begins...

There’s something for everyone as the one mile sparkling path winds its way through the world famous botanical gardens in a magical after dark experience.

Now in its fifth year, our new 2017 winter trail boasts over one million twinkling lights. Welcome to an enchanting world festooned with seasonal cheer as you wander beneath unique tree canopies drenched in Christmas colour.

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Follow the path lit by one thousand illuminated globes towards glittering trees dripping with silvery shards of you stroll towards the Lake and pause at the waterlight, snowflakes and stars. The mesmerising voices side reflections and underwater lights that playfully of the Singing Trees can be heard in the distance as glow. It’s a place where fairy-tale meets fantasy.

There are hidden surprises too – watch out for the woodland walk along Path of Bubbles, giant baubles where you least expect them and clusters of trees wrapped in ever-changing ribbons of light.

For the young ones, the playful atmosphere of White Peaks will welcome you with a Victorian carousel*, helter skelter* and other family rides* and don’t forget to look out for Santa and his elves at the North Pole along the way.

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Kew

15/09/2017 15:38

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

VERSACE’S FIRST FASHION show took place there and SINCE IT HAS BECOME A MECCA for millionaires

its glitzy décor, relaxed atmosphere and eclectic mix of furniture, the bar evokes a 1920’s vibe. Expect to find the city’s most discerning style crowd here. Evenings at the Mandarin Oriental bar are defined by two distinguished moments; aperitivo and after dinner. We settle in on the first evening and are immediately and unsurprisingly enamoured by the cocktail offering. The mixologists expertly surprise visitors by adding an Oriental twist to classic Italian cocktails. We follow with bar snacks that fuse tastes of the Orient with classic Italian cooking and a delectable meal of sea bass and lamb.

We enjoy a leisurely breakfast each day outside in the bistro’s courtyard; a morning sun trap clustered with casual seating and verdant greenery. The buffet offers everything you’d expect from an

upmarket stay, while classic egg dishes, Asian twists and hot plates are available from the a la carte menu.

For a light lunch just a short tram ride from the Mandarin Oriental, LuBar promises ‘slow street food,’ such as Sicilian almonds and arguably the city’s best arancini. The patio, adorned with flowers and hanging vines is beautiful for an aperitivo too. Be sure to arrive relatively early; though the place may be a hidden gem amongst tourist, it’s a favourite with Milanese locals.

Brera is another short stroll from the hotel and is highly recommended for a taste of the traditional Italian trattoria.

This part of town comes alive in the evenings, with outdoor restaurants

111 Chis_October17_ Milan_Turns.indd 111

serving food well after midnight. Prices are slightly more expensive than most cities in central Europe for food and drinks, but the things that you can do and see for free ensure that a day out sightseeing doesn’t have to be costly.

Milan is dotted with beautiful little chapels that are free to admire and peruse. The Basilica di Santa Maria is a handsome church that boasts some of the city’s best sculpture, fresco and sgraffito.

While this in itself is a talking point, the church attracts swarms of tourists for Milan’s most famous mural, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, which is tucked away on a wall of the refectory. It’s one of the world’s most iconic images and consequently requires advanced booking.

On the way back to the hotel, we end up at Sforza castle, a gigantic, sunbaked bastion built around a complex of 15th Century fortresses, castles and towers. Now, the structure houses many collections of art and sculpture from the Middle Ages to the 18th Century and stands as a gateway to Sempione Park.

This huge green space is off-the-beaten path of Milan’s sightseeing and blissfully stands away from the hustle and bustle.

Meander amongst the trees to unearth a wealth of unknown attractions including an aquarium, sports stadium and a Napoleonic arch. It's a fitting end to a fantastic trip in which we see that much of Milan’s beauty is yet to be discovered. u

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114 22/09/2017 16:55

TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

AN ITALIAN AFFAIR We head to the hills of Tuscany for a cultural week of food and fine wine W o r d s R o m y va n d e n B r o e k e

T

he beating heart of Italy, Tuscany offers every traveller something unique. Boasting some of the best food and wine in the world, an undulating landscape like no other and a rich culture of art, literature and music to enjoy, Tuscany is a holiday destination you’ll come back to time and time again.

Tuscany Now & More, the area’s most knowledgeable villa specialists, have a wide assortment of rustic farmhouses and chic villas to rent. Whether you want to escape into the verdant hills of Val D’Orcia or to architecturally impressive Lucca, the selection of homes on offer covers the region far and wide.

When it came to booking our week away, scrolling through the many beautiful homes showcased on the website was enjoyable in itself, but an hour in and a pastoral little bolthole in

115 CHIS_July16_Tuscany.indd 115

the Italian town of Capannori caught our eye. The farmhouse, known as Casa del Colle, is a short drive from both Pisa and Florence, and it's a quintessentially Italian home with all the mod-cons you could wish for, as well as your own private swimming pool.

The location of the villa is key although the pretty surroundings make it hard to leave - as a cheap flight into Pisa keeps costs down and proximity to Florence means a day trip here is a must.

The house itself sleeps four comfortably, and seven slightly less comfortably. The kitchen has everything you could need should you want to get inventive. There is a large BBQ to the right of the terrace, ideal for grilling seafood bought from the local market in the morning.

A small brick staircase leads down to your private pool, which, while relatively simple, serves its purpose - whether you use it for a cooling dip from the midday

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TRAVEL / WANDERLUST

At harry’s bar, one of FLORENCE’S MOST FAMOUS restaurants, THE PASTA is to die for sun or to pump out some morning lengths in a bid to work off the wine you sunk the night before. If you’re heading to the villa with kids, not only is there the pool to splash around in, there’s also an enclosed garden with a large trampoline where they can bounce away the afternoon.

The surrounding area is a playground for the curious traveller. As mentioned, a day trip to Florence is mandatory.

It offers everything from world-class food to some of the most breathtaking artworks in the world. Park just outside town and take a convenient tram into the city centre – from there, wander the ancient streets, being sure to keep looking up – the architecture dates back to the Roman era and is truly something to behold. Key sights include the Medici Chapel – the mausoleum of the Medici family, the most influential family in Florence from the 15th to the 18th centuries. There’s also Il Duomo di Firenze – the city’s looming cathedral – gothic in style, it dates back to the 13th

century when it was first designed by Arnolfo di Cambio. Another sight to see is the Ponte Vecchio – the city’s old bridge – which is striking in itself because of the shops built into the structure of it. Fancy a bite? There are plenty of wonderful eateries scattered throughout Firenze, but our favourite has to be Harry’s Bar, one of the city’s most famous restaurants where the pasta is to die for and the veal Milanese is so good you might want to order it twice.

Nearby Lucca is a small city and commune, just a short drive from the house and pretty as a picture. The city is surrounded by a Renaissance-era wall, and within are little shops, a piazza and plenty of great local eateries. While away an afternoon digging into perfect pizza and sipping on Aperol.

The local area of Capannori has some great little finds, including a sweet authentic eatery, Il Giardinetto, where the food is cheap and pretty darn tasty.

There’s also a great winery nearby, in San Gennaro, Fattoria di Fubbiano, where you can go on a wine and olive oil tour around the estate, before enjoying a wine and olive oil tasting.

With everything one could want, and much more, from a sunny getaway, make Tuscany the next place you visit.

And call in a little help from Tuscany Now & More. u

117 CHIS_July16_Tuscany.indd 117

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BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

• • • • •

2 BATHROOMS UTILITY PATIO GARDEN SCOPE TO UPGRADE & RECONFIGURE STPP EPC RATING F 24

FIELDING ROAD W14 GUIDE £695,000 SHARE OF FREEHOLD • • • • •

GARDEN FLAT 2 BEDROOMS FULL WIDTH RECEPTION CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN BATHROOM

BROOK GREEN 020 7371 4171

• SOUTH FACING GARDEN • EPC RATING C 72

LOCAL . INDEPENDENT . INVOLVED

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Computer generated image is indicative only. Price correct at time of going to press.

MARK ETING SUITE AND SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN Set behind carefully restored gatehouses, Bishops Gate is a new focal point for Fulham High Street, with striking architecture combined with beautifully crafted interiors.

A selection of 1, 2, 3 bedroom apartments and 4 bedroom townhouses situated within a private landscaped courtyard, with secure parking and a concierge.

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Prices from £725,000

CONTACT US TO ARRANGE A VIEWING 020 7409 8756 | BISHOPSGATESW6.COM Visit our Marketing Suite : 86 Fulham High Street, London SW6

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PROPERTY / NEW COUNTRYSIDE HOMES

YOU HOME We combine the best use of technology, experience and local presence

Y

OUhome is a new type of estate agent.

Our mission is to bring transparency, trust, technology and quality to the forefront of the real estate sales and lettings industry at a fraction of the “traditional” fee. We combine the best use of technology, experience and local presence to give our customers a more open, intelligent and costeffective premium service.

Our cutting edge is based on the local knowledge of our staff combined with our ability to apply technology in new ways to the property market. Using our custom-built YOUeye tool, we can better judge demand and supply for property in an area and track local valuation trends which are so critical to achieving the best price for your property.

However, first and foremost though, we are a people business.

The sale of your home or investment is likely to be one of, if not your biggest asset and you need to trust, respect and feel comfortable with the person that you appoint to

handle this for you. I lead a team of highly experienced and motivated Local Property Experts (we call them Property Gurus) whose role it is to advise, coach and mentor you through the process of selling your home whilst utilising all the facilities and amenities that YOUHome is able to provide. All of our Property Gurus/Local Experts have at least 10 years estate agency experience and are market leaders in their respective areas.

We've built an estate agency which is unique in combining local knowledge, marketing talent and clever technology so that our clients get the best buyer or tenant in the fastest possible time and at the best price. The unique Platform YOU that our clients have 24/7 access to, is at the forefront of technology and

provides up-to-date data on specific areas relevant to our clients. It’s a new take on property, exceeding our client's expectations and building trust through high levels of service and unrivalled transparency.

Put simply, we offer clients a smarter choice at a fraction of the “traditional fee”.

Laurence Lai is the London Sales Director (Head of London Sales) for YOUhome. He first became an Estate Agent in 1990 and has spent most of his working life acting for clients in The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. He has successfully sold properties in Chelsea, Chiswick, Earls Court, Kensington, Mayfair, Notting Hill and South Kensington.

He was previously a Partner and Office Head at Knight Frank and prior to this was a Director at Faron Sutaria. ® With special thanks to the Hollywood Arms for allowing us to use their premises. hollywoodarmschelsea.com/ Instagram - hollywoodarmschelsea.com Twitter - @hollywoodSW10 Facebook - @TheHollywoodArms YOUHOME

Notting Hill, 020 7908 9280, nhg@youhome.co.uk

All of our Property Gurus/Local Experts have at least 10 years estate agency experience

ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES

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4 & 5 BEDROOM FAMILY HOMES IN RAVENSCOURT PARK READY TO MOVE IN PR I CE S FRO M £2,150,000 STAM P D UT Y PAID* A S H CH U RCHVILL A S.CO M 020 3504 5314 @A SH CHURCHVILL A S

Developer Sales Agents

*Applicable to only home Computer Generated Image (CGI) for indicative purposes only

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Harrods Estates brings

LONDON property to the world

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

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

HARRODSESTATES.COM @HarrodsEstates

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20/02/2017 16:03 14:00 27/09/2016 10:46 22/09/2015 22/07/2015 14:41

Established 1897

A three-bedroom apartment that has been meticulously renovated.

Sutherland House, Kensington W8 • En suite master • Three meter ceiling heights • Spectacular views

GUIDE PRICE

£2,100,000 TENURE

Leasehold with Share of Freehold

• Portered building • 1,344sq ft / 124.86sq m • EPC rating E

EPC RATING

B

CONTACT

KENSINGTON OFFICE 020 3650 4600 daniel.elliot@harrodsestates.com

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

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Established 1897

A spacious, detached six-bedroom house in Wimbledon.

Coach House Lane, Wimbledon SW19 • Discreet residential location • Great scope to entertain • Two private garages

GUIDE PRICE

£5,000,000 TENURE

Freehold

• Six bedrooms & five bathrooms • Potential to add value and/or extend • Southerly aspect

EPC RATING

E

CONTACT

CHELSEA OFFICE 020 7225 6700 mark.greenway@harrodsestates.com

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

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Established 1897

A two-bedroom, second floor apartment in this period building.

Hans Place, Knightsbridge SW1 • Refurbished to the highest specification • Situated on the second floor • Lovely views over Pont Street

GUIDE PRICE

£2,950,000 TENURE

Leasehold Approximately 984 Years

• Walking distance of Hyde Park • KNX Lighting system • Approximately 995sq ft

EPC RATING

C

CONTACT

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE 020 7225 8044 jake.irwin-brown@harrodsestates.com

H A R R O D S E S TAT E S . C O M

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LIVING THE

DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market

1

BRONDESBURY ROAD N W 6 , £ 1 , 5 9 9,9 5 0 S O F

CHESTER SQUARE

SW 1 W, £28,0 0 0,000

T

L

CAMERONS STIFF Queens Park, 020 7328 2828 cameronsstiff.co.uk

HARRODS ESTATES Chelsea,020 7225 6508; harrodsestates.com

his incredible three bedroom and three bathroom conversion is arranged over the lower ground floor and ground floor of this newly refurbished property. The flat beautifully combines traditional features with contemporary style and modern luxury while offering exceptional living space in an exclusive location. The property provides not only a spacious interior, but an equally spacious rear garden. u

ocated in a prime position in an exclusive Belgravia garden square, this newly refurbished house incorporates fully integral mews-house with a double garage and roof garden. It benefits from a double mansard roof allowing six bedrooms upstairs and an unusually large mews house. It has a superior quality of finish, design and specification with an impressive amount of elegance. u

1

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PROPERTY / NEW TO THE MARKET

WALDEMAR

AVENUE MANSIONS SW 6 , £40 0 PW £1,733 P C M

T

SW 1 0, £ 7,9 5 0,0 0 0

S

his stunning one bedroom flat is located in this classic mansions block within a popular area of Fulham. The flat briefly comprises of one double bedroom, kitchen, lounge and bathroom.

The property also benefits from rustic features, such as stripped wooden flooring and a feature fire place. It is ideally located off Fulham Road, within walking distance of Bishop's Park. u

ituated in one of the finest addresses in West London is this unusual, four bedroom, family home. With a traditional exterior it keeps with the prestigious Victorian villas that surround it.

But behind lies a contemporary and well laid out lateral house.

Of particular note is the double height void that connects the reception room to the kitchen and dining room below. u

LOCKETT ESTATES

SAVILLS Chelsea, 020 7578 9000; savills.co.uk

Fulham, 020 0812 4132; lockettestates.co.uk

SEDLESCOMBE ROAD

THE BOLTONS

SW 6 , £ 1 , 5 9 9,9 5 0

A

stunning three bedroom house finished to an exceptional standard, featuring a large open plan kitchen diner, a private rear garden, two modern bathrooms and 1847 square feet of living space.

Fulham Broadway offers an excellent selection of shops and restaurants, including the world famous Harwood Arms, and great transport links into the city. u

IT HAS A SUPERIOR QUALITY OF FINISH, DESIGN AND SPECIFICATION

KINLEIGH FOLKARD & HAYWARD

Fulham & Chelsea, 020 3792 4508; kfh.co.uk

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absolutely.london

22/09/2017 16:41

Think London property experts.

Think KFH.

Our 60 London-wide branches agree a sale or let every 15 minutes*, working together to connect thousands of buyers and tenants with property like yours.

Trust London’s property experts to deliver the results you need.

kfh.co.uk/valuation

*Based on the annual average sales and lettings deals between July 2014 - June 2017.

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22/09/2017 10:29 09:25 15/09/2017

Iverna Court, Kensington W8 £2,195,000 South Kensington 020 3040 6370 southkensington.sales@kfh.co.uk

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A superbly finished two double bedroom apartment benefiting from a lift, porter and access to a communal garden square.

This highly regarded mansion building is conveniently located for High Street Kensington tube station, Kensington Palace Gardens, Hyde Park and nearby shops and restaurants.

• • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Bright and spacious Outstanding finish Lift and porter Access to garden square EPC rating F

22/09/2017 14:10 09:25 21/09/2017

Earl’s Court Square, Earls Court SW5 £1,150,000 Earls Court 020 7740 2020 earlscourt.sales@kfh.co.uk

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A spectacular two double bedroom period flat with its own entrance, two bathrooms and a delightful rear garden, as well as access to one of the finest garden squares in the area.

While retaining period charm, this immaculately presented home has been tastefully redecorated throughout.

• • • • • • •

Two double bedrooms Access to a garden square Private rear garden High quality kitchen Own front door Highly desirable location EPC rating D

Earl’s Court Square is conveniently located for Earls Court and West Brompton stations.

22/09/2017 14:10 09:26 21/09/2017

Treadgold Street, North Kensington £1,495,000 Holland Park 020 3542 2111 hollandpark.sales@kfh.co.uk

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A well presented end of terrace house moments from Clarendon Cross and offering great development potential.

Occupying a wide plot, this two storey property currently provides a large double reception room, kitchen/breakfast room, three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

• • • • • •

End of terrace house Exceptionally wide plot Development potential Great proportions Close to Clarendon Cross EPC rating E

Planning permission has been granted for extension work into the loft and side return.

22/09/2017 14:11 09:26 21/09/2017

Holland Road, Kensington W14 £2,426 pcm

A newly refurbished two double bedroom apartment with garden in a period conversion ideally situated moments from Holland Park, Westfield shopping centre and High Street Kensington.

Holland Park 020 3542 2120 hollandpark.lettings@kfh.co.uk

The property is located close to the green acres of Holland Park itself and a superb selection of boutiques, cafes and restaurants on Holland Park Avenue.

• • • • •

Two double bedrooms Garden Newly refurbished Wooden floors Storage and utility rooms

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

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Brompton Square, Knightsbridge SW3 £34,666 pcm Short let South Kensington 020 3040 6380 southkensington.lettings@kfh.co.uk

A truly unique five bedroom town house located within the highly sought after Brompton Square and owned by a renowned Hollywood film director.

A handful of the many gems include a desk made from the wing of a WW2 Dakota plane, curtains made from 150 year old wedding dresses, hand painted art on many of the walls and an outdoor bed.

• • • • • • • • •

Five bedroom town house All bills and wifi included Set over 4,551 sq ft Three reception rooms Five bathrooms Two private terraces Two studies Cinema room Outstanding location

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

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Houses for Sale

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Duncan Terrace, N1, £5,250,000

Hollywood Road, SW10, £4,250,000

An elegant 5,035 sq ft 5/6 bedroomed family town house (£1,042 per sq ft) in a Grade II listed Georgian terrace with west-facing terraces and gardens all very centrally located.

A beautiful white stucco-fronted 4/5 bedroom family home (2,365 sq ft) arranged over four floors. The house provides ample entertaining space and balanced accommodation throughout, boasting excellent proportions and impressive ceiling heights.

Porchester Terrace, W2, £2,750,000

Maida Avenue, W2, £5,200,000

A spacious 4 bedroom freehold family home (2,135 sq ft incl. storage) with sunny private patio garden, lovely communal gardens, large west-facing roof terrace, balconies front and rear and set within a gated terrace of just 9 houses.

A light 4/5 bedroom family house (2,700 sq ft) in a pretty terrace of period houses over-looking Regent’s Canal on a peaceful, tree-lined road, all in a very central location.

The house has a south/south east-facing (67 sq ft) garden and a conservatory.

SW1, SW3, SW10.

W11, W10, W2.

Laurence Lai laurence.lai@youhome.co.uk 020 7908 9281

Nick Sajid nick.sajid@youhome.co.uk 020 7908 9283

W11, W10, W2.

W8, W14.

Jerry Epton, MRICS jerry.epton@youhome.co.uk 020 7908 9282

Alexandra Mathew alex.mathew@youhome.co.uk 020 7908 9284

22/09/2017 09:32

Apartments for Sale

Redcliffe Gardens, SW10, £2,450,000

Lexham Gardens, W8, £1,895,000

A well-presented 4/5 bedroom penthouse apartment (2,210 sq ft) with an enormous 38’x20‘ reception and a wonderful roof terrace (established use) offering panoramic far-reaching views. Share of Freehold.

A beautifully presented first and second floor (1,201 sq ft) 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment within a converted period building. The apartment offers excellent entertaining space and has a roof terrace and a balcony.

Share of Freehold.

All Saints Road, W11, £1,725,000

Hornton Street, W8, £1,200,000

A stylish and spacious 3 double bedroom 2 bathroom maisonette (1,403 sq ft including vaults) with its own entrance, west-facing terrace and private garden on the fashionable All Saints Road in the heart of Notting Hill.

Share of Freehold.

A well-arranged 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment that has been refurbished to a high standard throughout.

The apartment has the benefit of access to communal gardens at the rear of the building. Leasehold 130 years remaining.

Telephone: 020 7908 9280 SW5, SW7.

Davide Moi davide.moi@youhome.co.uk 020 7908 9256

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Email: nhg@youhome.co.uk RBK&C Office: 121 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3LB Westminster Office: 63 Jermyn Street, London, SW1

22/09/2017 09:32

Lettings 020 7751 5100 www.farrar.co.uk

BILLING STREET, LONDON, SW10 A fabulous two bedroom house with two terraces situated in this private enclave just off the Fulham Road. The layout of this house creates a wonderful large master bedroom suite with excellent built-in wardrobes and a superb bathroom with twin basins and additional storage. The second bedroom and bathroom is on the lower level along with the kitchen/breakfast room which leads onto the patio garden. The reception occupies the entire ground floor which also enjoys a generous roof terrace. EPC Rating: D.

FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED

£1,000

per week*

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

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SLAIDBURN STREET, LONDON, SW10 A charming family home offered in immaculate condition with a fabulous roof terrace and wood oors throughout. This property offers spacious accommodation with a large semi open plan kitchen/dining/reception room with lots of natural light, 3 generous bedrooms including a fantastic master bedroom suite plus a 4th room which is currently used as a dressing room but could easily be a nursery or study.

A superb house with the highest standard including state of the art IT infrastructure and acoustic triple glazed windows. EPC Rating: D.

UNFURNSIHED

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ÂŁ1,200

per week*

22/09/2017 14:34

DISCOVERMORE

Embracing an innovative, modern approach whilst keeping traditional values at its core, Kew House School takes an exciting stance on 21st century education. With state-of-the-art facilities, a broad curriculum and excellent pastoral care, Kew House is a place where you would want to be – a place of learning and discovery, laughter and friendship.

Open Days October 11th (9.30am) November 1st/7th (9.30am/ 9.30am) November 15th/21st (7.00pm/ 9.30am)

Currently recruiting into the Sixth Form with a new Sixth Form Centre opening in 2017.

T: 0208 742 2038 E: info@kewhouseschool.com W: www.kewhouseschool.com An independent co-educational senior school for students aged 11-18 in West London

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@kewhouseschool

22/09/2017 11:26