Absolutely South West : Wimbledon Nov 2017

WIMBLEDON

ABSOLUTELY

South West Wimbledon NOVEMBER 2017 / £3.95

COOK UP A STORM NOVEM B ER 2017

DESIGN DUO Textile talk with Wallace Sewell

Recipes from the iconic River Cafe

English

HERITAGE

Traditional charm reigns for AW17

Modern

ZEST.LONDON

MUSE

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D I S C OV E R YO U R I N S P I R AT I O N ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT

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“It’s fine.

The heart wants what the heart wants.

Discover rural homes with sea views using keyword search.

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We’ll shop

online.”

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Pioneers of luxury development The full portfolio of companies under the TFG Bespoke Group can be viewed on our website, along with the full suite of construction services we provide.

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From the wonderfully little and very special empire of Lorraine Angliss top restaurateur and business woman: “It means absolutely everything to me knowing that the customers that come into the restaurants enjoy the experience” LA

special to west london has been her mission.

For the past years Lorraine has been busy with the opening of Rock & Rose Richmond, Annie’s in Barnes and Chiswick, Little Bird Chiswick and this year she opened another Little Bird, the contemporary and botanical cocktail bar and restaurant in Battersea recently given the title of “Hot Newcomer” by Hardens.

Lorraine absolutely loves Christmas and this season the restaurants will all be decorated to provide a delightful, warm and cosy atmosphere for all her guests to enjoy. Each venue offering something extra special. Menus have been created to reflect the comfort of festive joy.

Lorraine has been in the hospitality industry for many years, opening some of the hottest west end bars and restaurants.

Moving to Chiswick 20 years ago she decided to open ‘Annie’s’ Strand on the Green where her desire for opening local friendly and desirable places began... bringing something

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“Everything matters and in an industry that is male dominated I like to bring some female charm - I recognise that people have many choices - to compete you have to be very good and experience is essential. In doing so, my guests need to feel special, after all, they are the most important people to us” LA

Annie’s Chiswick, 162 Thames Road, London, W4 3QS

London’s Top Restaurateur

Annie’s Barnes, 36-38 White Hart Lane, London, SW13 0PZ

A pre Christmas interview with Lorraine Angliss

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Little Bird, 1 Station Parade, Burlington Lane, London, W4 3HD

Cocktail Hour Mon - Fri 5 - 7pm

Little Bird, 1 Battersea Rise, London, SW11 1HG

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Rock & Rose, 106-108 Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 2PQ

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Christmas in Kingston.

A surprise behind every door.

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Contents ABSOLUTELY

NOVEMBER 2017

108 16

C U LT U R E ABSOLUTELY LOVES

10 things we’re coveting this month

40 66

FOOD & DRINK 66 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

20 WHAT’S ON

68 RIVER CAFE AT 30

30 WIMBLEDON ART FAIR

INTERIORS 78 INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS

Diary dates for November

The annual event returns for a 25th year

Recipes from the iconic eatery

News and views

FA S H I O N 40 FASHION CONFIDENTIAL

86 DONNA IDA

44 WRAP IT UP

91

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y 56 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

T R AV E L 108 POSTCARD PEFECT

58 WINTER SKIN SOS

PETS 135 ANIMAL ACCESSORIES

This month’s hottest trend updates and brands to know

The chic knitwear label the style set love

The month’s best beauty buys

Give your complexion a pick-me-up with these cold weather heroes

Home decorating with the Queen of denim

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N The online guide to inspirational London living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

GREEN-FINGERED

Tip tops for your garden

Mallorca: the star of the Mediterranean

Trendy pet products to get your paws on

ON THE COVER

AMANDA WAKELY AW17 AVAILABLE AT AMANDAWAKELY.COM

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE EDITOR HELEN BROWN DIGITAL EDITOR HANNAH HOPKINS EDUCATION EDITOR AMANDA CONSTANCE FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER JOY MONTGOMERY GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES ACCOUNT MANAGER ANABELA KOLECI COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR LEAH DAY-ABALOS PROPERTY DIRECTOR JAMES FUSCHILLO ART DIRECTOR PHIL COUZENS

Window shopping Replacing beautiful timber windows and doors, beautifully

SENIOR DESIGNER PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN DESIGNER CATHERINE PERKINS 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 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 zest.london

www.ayrtonbespoke.com

020 8877 8920 enquiries@ayrtonbespoke.com 406 Merton Road, Wandsworth, London SW18 5AD 61- 63 Tottenham Lane, Crouch End, London N8 9BE

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Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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

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Editor’s

LETTER

THE MOROCCAN MEDINA AT QUEEN OF HOXTON

I love a good theme, so why not heat things up in a giant Moroccan lamp? I'll be enjoying the warmth of Marrakech while overlooking Shoreditch.

GABRIELLE HERNANDEZ EDITORIAL INTERN

A

Here are the ABSOLUTELY team’s top five winter terraces

1

s a long and tumultuous year draws to a close, we’re all in need of a bit of cosy, autumnal fun to brighten up the grey days - and the equally grey headlines.

While the rest of the capital commences festive fun (premature as ever), we’re determined to make the most of all London has to offer during this golden-tinted time of year. Colder days mean social activities move indoors, but luckily there are plenty of cultural happenings to note in your diary. From the silver screen’s latest re-imagining of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express to Rupert Goold’s five star theatre production of Ink at the Duke of York’s Theatre - there’ll be plenty to keep you occupied. Staying in is the new going out, after all.

We’re also pretty excited about all the luscious layers that November brings. Nothing says this better than AW17’s heritage trend: a celebration of the textural warmth of traditional fabrics and the high-shine, conker-coloured polish of leather boots. Turn to page 42 for our edit of the best pieces. From fashion to food; on page 68 we’re celebrating 30 years of The River Cafe with owner Ruth Rogers, plus get a sneak preview of three recipes from the new book.

All this, plus the latest news, reviews and inspiration for the new season ahead. Enjoy the issue.

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LODGE ON THE RIVER

I missed the chance to dine in an igloo on Tower Bridge last year, so I'm getting ahead of the crowd and booking one of Jimmy Garcia's snow globes for tipples on the South Bank.

HANNAH HOPKINS , DIGITAL EDITOR

SOUTHBANK’S NORDIC ROOFTOP SAUNA

I'll be booking a session at the Southbank’s Nordic rooftop sauna. Afterwards I’ll skip to the bar at the Queen Elizabeth roof garden for a glass of mulled wine.

DALLOWAY TERRACE

Dalloway Terrace is the ultimate romantic hideaway.

For November, the space will be transformed into a winter wonderland with lush fur throws and glittering foliage.

HELEN BROWN EDITOR

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR-IN- CHIEF

3

JOY MONTGOMERY FASHION & BEAUTY WRITER

PERGOLA PADDINGTON CENTRAL

Pergola Paddington Central is back and this time as a winter wonderland. It’s my venue of choice for a night of feasting and frivolity.

HELEN BROWN ARTS & CULTURE WRITER

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Wish LIST

F. R. S F.R.S For Restless Sleepers is a cutting-edge Milanese brand that champions the casual elegance of pyjama dressing. Embrace a bold collection of exquisite styles that are splashed with daring floral prints and chic details. forrestlesssleepers.com

G&Bee

This floral, zesty gin is infused with honey for a luscious sweet fi nish. Each bottle comes with wildflower seeds so you can grow your own bee sanctuary while you sip. £40; fortnumandmason.com

10 THINGS WE

ABSOLUTELY

LOVE COMPILED BY

H E L E N B R OW N

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SCENT SURROUND

Christmas is around the corner so we’re fi lling our homes with festive fragrance.

With notes of cocoa, candyfloss, toffee and cinnamon, Roja Dove's Christmas Treat is true comfort in candle form. £94.95; harrods.com

Fresh Fragrance

The latest scent from Acqua Di Parma radiates a sensual masculinity with crisp and sunny bergamot, combined with delicate petitgrain and juicy orange notes. £91; acquadiparma.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

ORLAKIELY

Orla Kiely’s AW17 collection combines Upper East Side style with a sprinkle of Parisian chic. It’s brimming with bold browns, pinks, purples and teal, and fi nished in a range of chunky knits, fake furs and velvet. orlkiely.com

TAS SE L TI ME It’s time to jump on the tassel trend and Saint Laurent are leading the way.

The deep turquoise hue of these Loulou earrings will suit all and the back clip means all can wear. £425; farfetch.com

B E LT I T Prada’s Cahier convertible belt bag introduces a vintage vibe to contemporary design in a covetable smooth green fi nish. £1,240; farfetch.com

EDITOR’S PICK

EY E- S PY Charlotte Tilbury has mastered the art of mesmerising eyes with her cleverly colour-coded palettes. We’re obsessing over The Rebel colourway for its bold and beautiful peacock hues. £39; charlottetilbury.com

VELVET CRUSH

Tibi's Harper boots are one of the key accessories you need to update your wardrobe for autumn. Equally as chic with office wear or frayed denim, these will take you from desk to disco. £630; net-a-porter.com

That’s a Wrap

This slinky scarf epitomises the romantic style of Pierpaolo Piccioli’s fi rst collection as Valentino's Creative Director. Ideal for adding touch of luxury to everyday ensembles. £315; selfridges.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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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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CULTURE

SURREALITY CHECK SAMMY SLABBINCK

Belgian artist Sammy Slabbinck renders dynamic collage prints from vintage photographs with contemporary compositional styles to play with exaggeration and proportions. Find a selection of his most iconic works in the new coffee table must-have, Surreality Check. lannoo.be, £35.16

What’s On: Monty Python and Paul Cézanne

20 • Theatre

Review: Ink 28 •.

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The Agenda LO N D O N ’S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

LOCAL EVENT

FILM

Murder on the Orient Express From 3 November UK CINEMAS Agatha Christie’s 1934 detective novel is given a new lease of life with a starry cast that includes Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz and Judi Dench. Kenneth Branagh both directs and takes the role of redoubtable detective Hercule Poirot, who is tasked with investigating the murder of a passenger aboard a busy, long-distance train.

Various locations

foxmovies.com

T H E AT R E

SNOW WHITE AND THE RED ROSE FROM 29 NOVEMBER • BATTERSEA ARTS CENTRE

Battersea Arts Centre has teamed up with acclaimed theatre company RashDash for the perfect family festive treat. Snow White likes to tell stories and paint, while sister Red Rose likes to race with the deer and wolves. When a friendly bear knocks on the door, the mischievous pair embark on a brave and magical adventure with fun songs and plenty of festive touches.

Lavender Hill, SW11; bac.org.uk 20

BOOK

Alain Elkann Interviews Master interviewer Alain Elkann has amassed an impressive archive that ranges from celebrated writers and editors, to film stars, directors, designers, politicians and more. His latest book sheds light on the unique style he has applied to an age-old craft and offers a window into the minds of some of the most respected figures of the last 25 years. Alaine Elkann Interviews, £28; assouline.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

T H E AT R E

ZERAFFA GIRAFFA

LOCAL EVENT

From 25 November OMNIBUS THEATRE Across the plains of Ethiopia where grass grows tall and acacias taste sweet, a young giraffe is sent a gift from from the Pasha of Egypt to the King of France. But Paris is very far away and so a young boy called Atir comes to the rescue in this emotionally engaging tale that explores what it is like to be different.

1 Clapham Common, SW4; omnibus-clapham.org

Around Town T H E AT R E

ROME MMXVII ★★★★★ From 6 November BARBICAN CENTRE Throw yourself full-throttle into the sweat of Coriolanus’ battlefield or loose yourself in the love story of Antony and Cleopatra; this thrilling London Season from the Royal Shakespeare Company, offers something for all. Silk Street, EC2Y; barbican.org.uk

T H E AT R E

MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT

This Month’s Must See

21-25 November NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE Join King Arthur as he travels with his hapless knights on a divine mission to locate the illusive Holy Grail… with uproarious consequences. Spamalot is a riotous comedy packed with misfit knights, killer rabbits, dancing nuns and ferocious Frenchmen. A tribute, lovingly ripped off from the hugely successful 1975 film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

93 The Broadway, SW19; atgtickets.com

EXHIBITION

BIG THRILL WEEKEND ★★★★★

LOCAL EVENT

CÉZANNE PORTRAITS O N G O I N G • N AT I O N A L P O R T R A I T G A L L E R Y

R

enowned for being one of the most influential artists of the nineteenth century, Paul Cézanne’s analytical approach to nature influenced the art of Cubists, Fauvists and successive generations of avantgarde artists. This exhibition brings together over 50 of his portraits in a unique insight into a central aspect of his work, highlighting the thematic characteristics of his portraiture.

St Martin’s Place; WC2H; npg.org.uk

Ongoing BFI This suspense-filled season promises to chill the viewer to the bone, with a designated BFI weekend offering the chance to delve deeper into the thriller film genre than ever before with classic screenings and a re-release of The Silence of the Lambs.

Belvedere Road, SE1; bfi.org.uk

EXHIBITION

FASHIONING IDENTITY ★★★★★ From 8 November SOMERSET HOUSE Turn your gaze away from the capital and up to the North which has spawned some truly remarkable photography, fashion and art, all of which is on display in Somerset House’s latest exhibition.

Strand, WC2R; somersethouse.org.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Q&A

Role

PLAY We talk comedy, crime and theatre with Downton Abbey star Catherine Steadman as she prepares for her leading role in Witness for the Prosecution Wo r d s H E L E N B R O W N

B

est known for her role as Mabel Fox in Downton Abbey, Catherine Steadman has a career that spans stage and screen. From Mansfield Park to Fresh Meat, The Inbetweeners and Oppenheimer, which earned her an Olivier award nomination, she’s not shy in coming forward to take all manner of roles. Her latest venture sees her step into the shoes of Romaine, the accused’s wife and titular Witness For The Prosecution in Agatha Christie’s iconic courtroom drama. The sitespecific production set in County Hall sees Steadman joined by rising star Jack McMullen from Waterloo Road, The Crown’s David Yelland and Roger Ringrose of Mr Selfridge fame. We caught up with her ahead of the immersive piece to talk all things theatre, crime thrillers and what’s next in the upward trajectory of her career.

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HELEN BROWN: It sounds like it’ll be a fantastic piece of theatre, how are rehearsals going?

CATHERINE STEADMAN: It’s great, we’ve just moved out of our rehearsal rooms and have the luxury of another two weeks rehearsing in the actual venue. Country Hall is not actually a courtroom - it’s more of an assembly room, but it looks exactly like the courtrooms at the old Bailey. The audience is going to be in situ and the drama will unfold around them. Our director, Lucy Bailey wants it to be very immersive, edgeof-the-seat stuff. It’s not going to be a cosy Agatha Christie.

HB: Tell us about your character Romaine.

CS: She’s a fantastic character and has been played on screen by some really brilliant actresses. It’s just after the Second World War and she’s a German woman living in London, married to a British man. The level of xenophobia after the war - especially for

a German woman - was fairly high, so she had a lot going against her. She’s not very sentimental and there’s not much that gets to her. It’s a very interesting character to play.

HB: How familiar were you with the story and of Agatha Christie’s work?

CS: Fairly familiar; I’ve seen lots of TV adaptations and I’m looking forward to seeing the new Kenneth Branagh film. She seems to be having a bit of a resurgence at the moment, which is good. There are actually two versions of Witness for the Prosecution. There’s the short story version written by Agatha Christie, set just after the First World War, with one particular ending.

Then there is the play version which is set after the Second World War with slightly different characters and a different ending.

Now, what we’ll have is an amalgamation of the two, so even if you know one or the other story, you won’t actually know the ending until you get to the end of our production.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • PROFILE

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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CULTURE • PROFILE HB: The fourth wall between actors and audience is completely broken down in this production, how does it compare to the other bits of theatre you’ve done?

CS: It will be similar to the works of Punchdrunk theatre in that it’ll be very close and exciting. Although, unlike Punchdrunk, ours will have a direct narrative. The audience won’t have to move around, the action will just happen around them. Our sound designer Mike Paul is underlying all sorts of atmospheric noises and the lighting will also add to the experience. I’m telling people, even if you don’t like theatre, go and be transported to this courtroom. It will be an experience.

HB: Do you have a preference between stage and screen?

CS: I like to do a bit of both. The good thing about theatre is that there’s not so much waiting around and you get a longer rehearsal period. With TV, you get in in the morning, you have your hair and makeup done and then you might sit in a trailer in a carpark for a few hours. But when rehearsing for theatre you’re working all day long. And then in theatre it's great working with a live audience, people can’t really make a noise on set when you do something shocking or funny, no one can gasp or laugh. They’ve both got really good points, but at the moment I’m enjoying doing theatre.

HB: Tell us about your path into acting, were you in school plays?

CS: No actually, no school plays - I wasn’t a drama kid at all. It sounds weird but I knew I didn’t want to do musical theatre acting and that was the main focus in my school - Annie Get Your Gun sort of thing. That’s never been my cup of tea, I think I might actually be tone-deaf! I waited to do some more low-key acting and then trained at Oxford School of Drama.

“Even if you don’t like theatre, go and be transported to this courtroom.

It will be an experience” HB: Was it something your parents were supportive of?

CS: Yes I think so; I remember watching a hospital drama and I asked my mum what job the man on the television was doing.

My mum said “Oh he’s an actor,” although I meant within the hospital. She said, “He’s not a real doctor, he could be a policeman one day, or a detective.” I remember thinking what an amazing job. Since then I’ve always wanted to act. My parents have been behind me the whole way, they’ve let me just go for it.

HB: A lot of people know you for your role in Downton Abbey which you joined in series five, was there a sense of trepidation becoming part of such a highly acclaimed show?

CS: Not really, I was excited more than anything. I hadn’t watched much of it before starting so I did a bit of delving into previous series to see what had been said about my character. But I didn’t want to see too much because I wanted it to be quite fresh. As soon as I arrived on set there was such a warm atmosphere, you could tell everyone really enjoyed working there.

HB: Dame Maggie Smith has a reputation for being one of the best actresses in the country; what was she like to work with?

CS: It was absolutely amazing. On my first day we were rehearsing a scene when Maggie turned up on set. She walked straight up to me, shook my hand and said, ‘You must be Catherine, I’m Maggie Smith.”

She broke down that barrier straight away on my first day and it was just really lovely that she’d learnt my name.

HB: What are your Downton highlights?

CS: Because I’d gone in at series five, they

had everything very finely tuned. Everyone had worked out the etiquette of dining and sitting and who could do what and when. So for me it was like slipping into a well-oiled piece of machinery. It was just beautiful every room was stunning and the costume design was out of this world. I got to wear some gorgeous costumes. I had a real Harris tweed three-piece suit made for my horseriding scenes - that was pretty special. I think they just wanted everything to be absolutely perfect.

HB: You’ve had some fantastic roles in comedy too - The Inbetweeners, Fresh Meat - is comedy something you take to quite naturally?

CS: I think comedy is much harder than drama; it’s all about timing and landing things, or giving other people space to land things. The Inbetweeners was very much about giving the boys a stock man to work against, essentially. I really enjoy it, I like to do a mix because doing dramas continually can get a bit tense, especially with the really intense stuff like Ibsen or Chekhov. It’s nice every now and then to do something more light-hearted. I did Trying Again with Chris Addison in the Lake District and it was just a really fun, mistaken identity, farce-y comedy. The perfect light relief after a lot of drama.

HB: You’ve just completed a Philosophy, Politics and Economics degree, tell us about that?

CS: Yes, I’ve been doing it on and off now for five years along side the acting.

It’s something I decided to do because I went straight from A Levels into drama school, which is very much a vocational course. I always felt that I’d missed out education-wise and there was a base level of knowledge that I didn't have. I didn’t know much about the economy or politics so I thought I’d brush up. It’s good to have in my back-up armoury and it’s been fun. I’ve been doing it on sets and in trailers, in different countries all over the world, it keeps me busy when I’m not working. I’ve been toying with the idea of doing an MA in it, but at the moment I’ve got a lot on my plate with Witness so I’m giving the education a little breather for now.

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150+

ARTISTS & MAKERS

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FREE ENTRY WIMBLEDONARTFAIR.COM

Browse and buy affordable art

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ABSOLUTELY ROUND UP CULTURE • THEATRE

ROUND UP

EVERYBODY'S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE

Best in

SHOW

Spend a cosy evening in Theatreland with our top stage picks for the month

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie

By H E L E N B R OW N

DEAR BRUTUS ★★★★★★

From November 29 SOUTHWARK PLAYHOUSE In a remote 1917 English Village there are rumours of an enchanted wood. One of the inhabitants invites eight strangers to stay. What happens there has the power to change their lives. Presented in a sumptuous production for the play’s centenary year, Dear Brutus is J.M Barrie at his most magical.

77-85 Newington Causeway, SE1; southwarkplayhouse.co.uk

NETWORK ★★★★★

From 4 November NATIONAL THEATRE Network depicts a dystopian media landscape where opinion trumps fact.

Hilarious and horrifying by turns, the iconic film won four Academy Awards in 1976. Now, Billy Elliot’s Lee Hall and director Ivo van Hove bring this masterpiece to the stage for the first time, with Bryan Cranston of Breaking Bad fame in the role of Howard Beale.

Upper Ground, SE1; nationaltheatre.org.uk

MUST SEE

★★★★★

HAMILTON

ANTONY & CLEOPATRA

★★★★★

From 6 November • Apollo Theatre Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn’t quite fit in. Jamie is going to be a sensation. Supported by his brilliant loving mum and surrounded by his friends, Jamie overcomes prejudices, beats bullies and steps out of the darkness. This modern-day fairytale features catchy new songs and fantastic staging. Not to be missed.

Shaftsbury Avenue, W1D; everybodystalkingaboutjamie.co.uk

From November 30 BARBICAN Following Caesar’s assassination, Mark Antony has reached new heights of power. Now he has neglected his empire for a life of decadence with his mistress, Cleopatra. Torn between love and duty, Antony’s passion leads the lovers to a tragic end. One of Shakespeare’s greatest love stories.

Silk Street, EC2Y; barbican.org

HAMILTON ★★★★★

From 21 November VICTORIA PALACE THEATRE Hamilton dominated headlines for its Broadway run and comes across the pond with the promise of a night to remember. Inspired by Ron Chernow's ‘Alexander Hamilton’ and boasting an eclectic score of Hip-Hop, RnB, Rap and Broadway, Hamilton redefines our idea of what musical theatre has the potential to be.

Victoria Street, SW1E; hamiltonthemusical.co.uk ANOTONY AND CLEOPATRA

DEAR BRUTUS

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FROM PEN TO PRINT The newspaper drama makes its mark on the West End

By G A B R I E L L E H E R N A N D E Z

W

hat makes a good story? This seemingly simple opening line turns out to be the cornerstone of the plot. Ink tells the story of the reinvention of The Sun, courtesy of Rupert Murdoch and Larry Lamb. Lined will tension, moral dilemmas and hilarity, Ink gives an inside look into the drama-filled newspaper business of the 1970s.

This high quality production creates the perfect setting for the retelling of The Sun’s history as a tabloid newspaper. A mountain of desks is constructed to portray depth and

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dimension on stage. Stacking them atop each other to create a stair-like structure, it gives the characters the perfect backdrop for the disorder they create on Fleet Street. As Murdoch and Lamb reinvent The Sun, they face pushback from other top publications, but they never cease to create disruption with flashy headlines and obscene stories. Dotted with one liners that had even the actors cracking an uncharacteristic smile, the play does well to combine humour with seriousness. Their rise to power is documented through an intriguing musicality in the storyline.

A parade of colours and characters

“Characters begin questioning the ethics of their work”

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

dance about on-stage, showing off various front covers that are the power behind their success. The climax of their fame comes with the decision to publish a nude photo. Not only does this change the way the publication is viewed, but is a lifealtering decision for the model as well as Lamb’s career as Editor. It brings into question the driving force behind such decisions. In the first scene, Lamb explains that in writing a good story you must answer the five w’s: who, what, when, where and why. You can see these five repetitious letters illuminated atop the mountain of desks, emphasising their importance to the storyline. He emphasises that once the ‘why' is answered, the story is no longer of any worth. Once you know why, you no longer need the other four w's. The play delves into the thought process behind choosing what goes into publication.

These big decisions about whether to publish controversial stories or photos is what skyrockets The Sun onto a whole new level - but at a cost.

Characters begin to question the ethics of their work, contemplating why they make decisions and how to live with them. One supporting character recounts how an elder photographer has burns on his hands from the flash powder. He leaves a lingering question: “If every photo you took burned itself into your skin, what would you choose to capture?”

The concept of the 'why' proves to be a strong recurring theme throughout.

Ink not only takes a deeper look into the media, but also allows for self reflection on the decisions we make and how they change the course of our lives forever.

VERDICT A riveting and unmissable account of a pivotal moment in media history.

A must-see for all.

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The trademarks Ovo and Cirque du Soleil are owned by Cirque du Soleil and used under license.

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PREMIU FA ILYM, EXPERM IENCES AVAILA BLE

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HOSPITA PRE-SHOW AFTERNOON TEA: Head to the Park Terrace, located in the Royal Garden Hotel, for the official CIRQUE DU SOLEIL OVO Afternoon Tea. The themed tea will reflect OVO’s motif of insects teeming with life and will transform a standard Afternoon Tea into an edible ecosystem. For more information go to:

www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk/afternoontea

OPENS

7TH JANUARY 2018 CIRQUEDUSOLEIL.COM/OVO | ROYALALBERTHALL.COM

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16/10/2017 09:40

ART

Attack Step inside the world of the artist at the 25th extravaganza edition of Wimbledon Art Fair Wo r d s H E L E N B R O W N

A

must on the culture calendar, Wimbledon Art Fair returns for a truly unique showcase of artists, designers and makers from across the globe.

Now in its 25th year, the fair welcomes over 150 creatives to showcase their work from Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th November at Wimbledon Art Studios. Formally known as Wimbledon Open Studios, the prodigious event has been revamped to include new names that reflect its browse and buy focus.

As one of the only free-entry shows in London, Wimbledon Art Fair introduces both seasoned arts collectors and newbies on the scene to a roster of innovative artists from around the world. Every visitor is given the rare opportunity to

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“It introduces both seasoned collectors and newbies on the scene to a roster of artists from around the world” step inside the hidden world of the artist.

Over four days, visitors can walk into paint splattered private working studios and meet the artists and makers behind some of London’s leading contemporary arts and crafts. Spread across two buildings, eight floors and hundreds of studios, there is lots to discover. This not-for-profit studio campus is a thriving creative community of both established, award-winning artists

and exciting emerging talent. The Art Fair will present a diverse range of artists and makers, such as LoveJordan, the collaborative work of artists Jonny Love and Samuel Jordan. The pair have been commissioned by the BBC to the Saudi Royal Family for their work which explores themes and concepts of complexity, sprawling cities, the human desire to fill empty spaces and miniatures.

Artist Emma Leone Palmer will also be exhibiting. Emma holds the title of Portrait Artist of The Year and was most recently featured on Sky Arts. She is also the winner of The London Contemporary Art Prize and is currently exhibiting in The Wallace Collection. Her portrait artistry captures gritty, real, expressive human beings in copious amounts of paint and glitter.

Elsewhere in the fair, Japanese ceramic Yuta Segawa will display his miniature pottery. His work challenges what the

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CULTURE • LOCAL

human body can make at such a small scale, while Divya Batra Pasgon will be showcasing her silkscreen prints. These rich and ornate works explore themes of meditation on the self, identity and the female image.

Also on show are Katherine Le Hardy’s contemporary landscapes and Jacqui Kelly’s sugar sculptures.

Jacqui is a multi-award winning cake artist and sugar sculptor with commissions from Harrods and HRH Queen Elizabeth II. All this, plus an inspiring contemporary collection of original paintings, editioned prints, photography, ceramics and sculptures. Whether you’re buying for your own home or seeking a special seasonal gift, Wimbledon Art Fair has something for all tastes and budgets, from as little as £70 to £7,000. Small board works will once again be available to purchase before the art fair. These artworks start their life as square wooden blocks, on which the artists create their mini masterpieces. These are one off pieces the likes of which you’ll never be able to purchase again.

These will initially be sold online – often the works are snapped up by buyers within hours of their release.

Early access will be available to keen

buyers as a perk of pre-booking a visit to Wimbledon Art Fair. Other highlights include an official launch party on Thursday evening with Keith Brymer Jones, ceramicist and judge of BBC2’s The Great Pottery Throw Down, a programme of talks and workshops, family activities, and the chance to auction for a selection of donated works from South London’s most sought after artists.

All profits from the auction will be donated to St George’s Hospital Charity who provide an engaging art programme to support patients, families and staff.

WIMBLEDON ART FAIR 16-19 November10 Riverside Road, SW17; wimbledonartfair.com

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RAYMOND GUBBAY presents

CAROLS

BY CANDLELIGHT

An exquisite concert of carols and seasonal classics staged in full 18th Century costume in an evocative candle-lit style setting.

CHRISTMAS WITH

RUSSELL WATSON Start your Christmas celebrations in style as singing sensation Russell Watson performs a magnificent concert of seasonal music and songs.

WHITE CHRISTMAS SILENT NIGHT ADESTE FIDELES O HOLY NIGHT AVE MARIA HARK THE HERALD ANGELS SING

Handel Christmas sequence from Messiah, Let the Bright Seraphim Rutter The Twelve Days of Christmas Gruber Silent Night Corelli Allegro & Pastorale from Christmas Concerto Cullen Joy to the World Mozart Alleluia from Exsultate, jubilate and CAROLS FOR ALL With readings from Dickens and the Scriptures by special guest Bernard Cribbins MOZART FESTIVAL CHORUS MOZART FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA in full period costume Jennifer France soprano Steven Devine conductor

Saturday 16 December 8.00pm, Sunday 17 December 7.30pm Friday 22 December 7.30pm, Saturday 23 December 8.00pm Sunday 24 December 2.30pm & 7.00pm

Laura Wright guest singer Simon Chalk conductor Birmingham Voices choir London Concert Orchestra

Saturday 23 December 7.30pm

ROYAL ALBERT HALL royalalberthall.com 020 7838 3109

BARBICAN HALL barbican.org.uk 020 7638 8891

ANTON & ERIN

THE

JOHANN STRAUSS

The nation’s favourite ballroom couple return with an exciting new show for 2018!

With dazzling new choreography, sparkling costumes and a sensational show band performing timeless music.

GALA

The giddy romance and gilded ballrooms of old Vienna are brought to life by the music of the King of the Waltz and friends.

Somewhere in Time Mr Bojangles Downtown Cry Me a River This Nearly Was Mine New York, New York Couple of Swells Libertango

Vienna City of my Dreams Radetsky March Audition Aria from Die Fledermaus Wine, Women and Song The Blue Danube Waltz plus many more.

Anton du Beke & Erin Boag Richard Balcombe conductor Lance Ellington star vocalist

John Rigby conductor Corinne Cowling soprano Nicky Spence tenor

Six world class Ensemble Dancers

JOHANN STRAUSS DANCERS & ORCHESTRA in glorious costumes of the period

Plus the full 25 piece London Concert Orchestra

Saturday 10 February 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Saturday 20 January at 2.30pm

BARBICAN HALL barbican.org.uk 020 7638 8891

ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL southbankcentre.co.uk 020 3879 9555 SEATS AVAILABLE raymondgubbay.co.uk

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(bkg fees apply)

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RaymondGubbay

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16/10/2017 10:28

Remember Them To mark Remembrance Day 2017, Absolutely discovers the people behind the poppies Wo r d s L E I L A J O H N S

T

he Poppy Factory in Richmond works all year round to produce millions of poppies and over 100,000 wreaths for The Royal British Legion’s poppy appeal in November - something they have been doing since 1922. The factory was founded

by Major George Howson MC after The First World War to provide employment to disabled veterans.

Howson was an innovator and an engineer and created ergonomic tools that helped his disabled workforce thrive. Over 40 disabled men were employed within the first four months and numbers

quickly grew. By 1925, the factory had moved to its current location in Richmond and by 1935, the factory was employing over 350 disabled veterans, some of whom made specially created wreaths for the Royal Family. Every year The Poppy Factory organises the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey where Remembrance crosses are planted in memory of fallen comrades and loved ones.

Today, The Poppy Factory is the country’s leading employment charity for veterans with health conditions or impairments. The factory still employs some 30 veterans and dependents with disabilities but the service has expanded to support veterans into

“The charity wants to transform the way employers think about disability”

CULTURE • LOCAL

To find out more about The Poppy Factory and to give support go to poppyfactory.org

employment across England and Wales. In 2010, the charity started a community-based service to support disabled veterans who are struggling to either find a job or who are in a job that makes their health worse. It is estimated there are at least 17,500 veterans who need the charity’s help.

Deirdre Mills, the Chief Executive of The Poppy Factory said: “We are proud to be at the heart of remembrance every November.

Every single wreath you see across the country is handmade in our factory. Over the decades, we have seen first-hand how challenging it can be for disabled veterans to find meaningful work and I am delighted that we have been able to expand our service beyond the factory to help many more.”

The Poppy Factory has so far provided bespoke opportunities and ongoing employment support for over 800 disabled veterans across the country, helping to restore their financial independence through sustainable and rewarding work.

The charity wants to transform the way employers think about disability in the workplace and has developed resources and guidance to help businesses better understand how Service skills can be applied to civilian roles and what steps can be taken to help employees with disabilities.

Complex health issues developed during or after Service can make it incredibly tough for veterans to find and sustain civilian work. The Poppy Factory believes that sustainable and rewarding employment can give disabled veterans their independence back.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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11/07/2017 15:21

Pop for Pan Pan Books celebrates 70 years of paperback publishing with a range of bold graphic covers

A

Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

very graphic collection of covers has launched to celebrate 70 years of Pan Books and the eye-catching display is instantly identifiable in bookshop windows all over London.

The first Pan paperback titles were published in 1947, starting with Ten Stories by Rudyard Kipling (fittingly now the first of the 20 Classic Pan titles published to celebrate the Pan 70th Anniversary).

Pan Books was conceived in 1944

by Alan Bott, who also owned the Book Society. As well as being a decorated WWI hero, journalist and author, he is widely recognised as one of the commercial geniuses of the book trade. Pan later became jointly and equally owned by Collins, Heinemann, Hodder & Stoughton (briefly) and Macmillan and was to be the first serious challenger to Penguin, which had been founded nine years earlier, for the massmarket paperback audience. In sharp contrast to the Penguin covers, featuring the classic colour bands, Pan’s illustrative covers were

“Pan’s illustrative covers were unashamedly commercial”

CULTURE • BOOKS

unashamedly commercial as was their list. Due to post-War paper shortages, Pan initially printed books in France and they were shipped from Paris over the Channel and up the Thames to Kingston.

The 1950s and 60s saw surging sales of popular authors in Pan paperback, including Leslie Charteris, John le Carre, Colin Dexter, Georgette Heyer, Ian Fleming, Dick Francis, Peter O’Donnell, Alan Sillitoe, Neville Shute, and Leslie Thomas. The 1970s brought James Herriot, Arthur Hailey, Jack Higgins, George Macdonald Fraser, Tom Sharpe and Wilbur Smith. In the 1980s Douglas Adams, Jackie Collins and Shirley Conran were among the authors who joined the Pan list then, in the 1990s, Ken Follett, Carl Hiaasen and Elizabeth Jane Howard up to the present list of bestselling fiction and non-fiction writers. In 1990 Pan merged with the Trade division of Macmillan to become Pan Macmillan.

To mark the 70th anniversary, 20 classic Pan titles have been reissued in homage to golden age of paperback publishing and with new eye-popping and witty cover designs in brilliant technicolour.

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MUST BE CHRISTMAS AT

F E S T I V E L U N C H PA C K A G E S F R O M £ 3 6 P E R P E R S O N

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH AND E N J O Y A B O T T L E O F P R O S E C C O F O R Y O U R TA B L E * Q U O T E ‘ A B S O L U T E LY ’ W H E N B O O K I N G 0207 313 8363

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

BOWL THEM OVER THIS CHRISTMAS Celebrate the season in style at ALL STAR LANES

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is the season to be jolly - but all too often the seemingly endless line of obligatory Christmas shindigs are anything but. The Yuletide season inevitably brings awkward small talk over cheap wine or tasteless tipples that should be wheeled back to the dust-covered drinks cabinet from whence they came. It doesn’t have to be that way. This Christmas, treat your nearest and dearest to a Yuletide knees-up they’ll actually enjoy!

The festive folk at All Star Lanes are serving up a party package with a difference, offering the perfect mix of retro bowling, American comfort food and inspired festive cocktails. Whether you’re after a fun night out with friends or a unique venue to host your work party, All Star Lanes is the ultimate Christmas party destination.

“Treat your nearest and dearest to a Yuletide kneesup they’ll actually enjoy” Turkey schmurky. Can’t stand the sight of yet another over-cooked, tasteless traditional Christmas dinner? They’ve got your back.

This year sees the return of their legendary Christmas dinner burger and it’s better than ever – a turkey, chestnut and cranberry patty beneath a generous mouth-watering layer of duck fat roasted potato salad, topped with a sausage and apricot stuffing fritter. If a burger isn’t on your Christmas list, then tuck into the herb baked fillet of salmon or the five bean & sweet potato pot pie.

Finish off your feast with a decadent eggnog crème brûlée or vegan friendly homemade cherry turnover served warm with a scoop of sweet soy milk ice cream. If this wasn’t enough, the brains behind this Yuletide extravaganza have also come up with some

epic festive cocktails. Think Pumpkin Nog, boozy mince pie milkshakes and Christmas classics to help you on your merry way.

What better way to work off your Christmas feast than by hitting the retro bowling lanes? Step into the golden age of America and challenge your friends or colleagues to a festive game of bowling, All Star Lanes style.

Wanna party like the A-list? Party-goers can enjoy unlimited bowling on their own private lanes, call on a dedicated team of cocktail connoisseurs and feast on a spectacular array of festive canapés. Go bottomless with one of their Christmas drinks packages or have a karaoke singalong to get you in the holiday spirit.

You can drink, dine and bowl the new old-fashioned way this Christmas with All Star Lanes.

Two course packages from £36, including a game of bowling and half bottle of wine per person.

Available at All Star Lanes Bayswater, Brick Lane and Holborn. More information can be found at allstarlanes.co.uk.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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1 Bellevue Parade, Wandsworth Common SW17 7EQ • 020 8767 7294 • olivierslounge.co.uk Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm • Sun: 12pm - 5pm

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FASHION

PINK PERFECTION HUSH Forget any cute connotations because pink is this season’s colour du jour.

Hush have delivered the perfect pink knit to brighten up your workwear.

Simply pair with tailored trousers, killer heels and hoop earrings for polished perfection; £69. hush-uk.com

Fashion News p.40 • Trend Edit: English Heritage p.42 • Resin Redux p.46.

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FASHION NOTES

Supermodel shoes, a new brand of blazer and this season’s ‘it’ party dress GABRIELA HEARST

By J OY M O N TG O M E RY

Claremont Reversible Trench Coat, £2,695; matchesfashion.com

WAREHOUSE

Check Lined Trench, £89; warehouse.co.uk

4 OF THE BEST TRENCH C OAT S

EDITOR’S PICK

ZARA

Oversized Trench Coat, £89.99; zara.com

Model’s Choice C L AU D I A S C H I F F E R F O R AQ UA Z Z U R A

ARKET

Twill Trench Coat, £225; arket.com

She's reigned over the runway for three decades, working with the industry’s biggest talents, and now she is turning her hand to shoe design. Claudia Schiffer for Aquazzura is an eight-piece collection inspired by moments in the model's life. Highlights include the Le Marais boots - perfect with this season’s ankle-grazing hemlines. aquazzura.com

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FASHION • NOTES

ON OUR WISHLIST

BRAND PROFILE

PRINTS CHARMING

Blazé Milano

RIXO LONDON

You’ll probably recognise Rixo London from the social pages of glossy magazines. It's this year’s party dress du jour.

Driven by a love for all things vintage, the brand’s signature dresses combine bold prints with quirky details, such as mandarin collars and neat neck ties; £265. rixo.co.uk

The Italian brand kicking traditional tailoring into 2017

WHO?

JUMP IN M.I.H JEANS

FRINGE BENEFITS T H E VO LO N

Loved by Miroslava Duma and Leandra Medine, The Volon is the bag brand with roots in interior design. This fringed cross-body bag is all kinds of fun with its maximalist colour palette and look-at-me tassels. An easy way to brighten up a chunky knit; £1,128. farfetch.com

Comfy yet cool, the jumpsuit is one of the wardrobe’s hardest working pieces. As the temperature drops, a white polo neck will instantly elevate M.i.h Jeans' denim iteration.

Warmth and style needn’t be mutually exclusive after all; £300. matchesfashion.com

GETTING SHIRTY B R U TA

Bruta knows how to do shirts. Founded in 2015 by Arthur Yates, the brand is part of the new guard of designers dedicating their labels to a single item of clothing. The AW17 collection pays homage to England’s rich history, with boxy shirts decorated with embroidered motifs - everything from flying ducks and goldfinches to creeping florals and (our personal favourite) King Henry VIII and his wives; £150.

bruta.eu

Blazé Milano is the specialist blazer brand created by former ELLE Italia editors, Delfina Pinardi, Corrada Rodriguez D’Acri and Sole Torlonia. The name is, fittingly, a play on the word blasé, referring to the notion of being nonchalant or indifferent. How very ‘fashion’.

WHAT? The trio have taken the blazer’s timeless silhouette and reworked it into a plethora of contemporary styles. The tightly edited collection focuses on four cuts: a double and singlebreasted blazer, a safari-inspired colonial style and a smoking jacket, all rendered in lustworthy fabrics - from decadent jacquard and rich velvet to soft silk and classic wool.

WHERE? It’s not the flashiest of brands, but look closely and you’ll spot Blazé Milano’s understated beauty scattered across the streets of fashion week. The rusty hue of the Jealousy Brandy velvet blazer is an easy way to inject retro appeal into your winter jacket game. The High Kingdom’s Prince of Wales check, meanwhile, is a key look for AW17 and will look just as cool paired with highwaisted jeans as it will with a girly midi skirt.

blaze-milano.com

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FASHION • PRODUCTS

EDITOR’S PICK

STELLA MCCARTNEY Checked Wool Trench Coat, £1,795; ssense.com

ALEXANDER WANG Oversized Houndstooth WoolBlend Blazer, £940; net-a-porter.com

SEE BY CHLOÉ Ruffle-Trimmed Poplin Shirt, £195; net-a-porter.com

TABITHA SIMMONS Sophie Knee-High Leather Boots, £745; matchesfashion.com

BURBERRY Fair Isle Cashmere and Wool-Blend Vest, £695; net-a-porter.com

PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND STELLA MCCARTNEY Falabella Round-Frame Acetate Glasses, £215; matchesfashion.com

Woolcheck Trousers, £450; pringleofscotland. com

BURBERRY AW17

ENGLISH HERITAGE Plaid prints and polished leather make up AW17’s traditional trend

GABRIELA HEARST AW17

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

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SET Multicoloured Houndstooth Skirt, £159 Available at Olivier's Lounge

CHURCH’S GUCCI Nymphaea Bamboo Mini Leather Tote, £1,350; gucci.com

Stella Polished Fume Boots, £445; church-footwear.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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LINGERIE • NIGHTWEAR SWIMWEAR • BEACHWEAR Lingerie and swimwear measuring and fitting service available all year round without appointment from A to J cup (size 8 to 20) GIFT VOUCHER AND GIFT WRAPPING AVAILABLE 34 Webb’s Road, London SW11 6SF Tel: 020 7924 3826 www.ameliesfollies.co.uk

• AMELIES _FOLLIES_NOV.indd 1

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Q&A

WRAPPED UP IN STYLE

Madeleine Thompson’s distinctive knitwear designs have garnered critical acclaim within London’s style set. We met the brand’s founder to discuss inspiration, London life and the universal appeal of a good jumper Wo r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y JOY MONTGOMERY: How did Madeleine Thompson come into being?

MADELEINE THOMPSON: It started when I realised that knitwear was either very good quality but quite ‘mumsie’ or a good cut but terrible yarn. There didn’t seem to be any middle ground. I feel very strongly that my jumpers should provide amazing quality alongside great directional shapes something which is still quite rare.

JM: Who is the Madeleine Thompson

woman?

MT: I think she’s all of us. I think she’s anyone who wants to look good while still feeling comfortable. My designs are your friend - who doesn’t want that? The Madeleine Thompson woman is stylish but doesn’t try too hard.

JM: Where do you draw your inspiration from and what inspired your AW17 collection?

MT: I have to say, this collection is inspired by many different things.

Everything from retro après skiwear and surf style to boarders from the ’70s. It's an eclectic mix.

JM: Why do you think the luxury loungewear market has grown in recent years?

MT: I think there are a few reasons: firstly, there are just some amazing pieces out there now. Loungewear in its latest reincarnation is comfortable, well cut and chic. I also think our lives have changed and the way people work and live mean it’s appropriate to wear loungewear in our day-to-day lives.

44

JM: What’s your favourite piece from the new collection?

MT: Definitely the rainbow tracksuit. It’s awesome - if I do say so myself.

JM: What is your career highlight?

MT: Getting stocked in Net-a-Porter was

such an honour and a watershed moment for the brand.

JM: Who would you love to see wearing your designs?

MT: It would have to be Gwyneth Paltrow or Lorde.

JM: What’s your favourite thing about working as a designer in London?

MT: London is the most fantastic city. We’ve got it all - old and new, conservative and innovative. I am constantly inspired just walking down the street.

JM: Where’s your favourite place to eat, drink and shop in London? Any hidden gems?

MT: I’ve recently discovered Cafe Murano.

I had the best pasta I’ve ever had in my life there. Delicious.

JM: Where do you hope to see the brand in five years?

MT: I would love the brand to grow organically and with purpose. I like that we are an authentic label and I hope to continue in this vein.

madeleine-thompson.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FASHION • DESIGNER Q&A

“Loungewear in its latest incarnation is comfortable, well cut and chic” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Resin REDUX

46

MANGO

DINOSAUR DESIGNS

MARNI

Circular Pendant Earrings, £12.99; shop.mango.com

Stone 1 Leather, Gold-Tone and Resin Necklace, £145; net-a-porter.com

Gold-Plated, Enamel and Resin Earrings, £170; net-a-porter

ELLERY

JAEGER

Gold W Resin Tortoise Combo Hush Hoop, £360; lyst.co.uk

Tabitha Flat Bead Necklace, £75; houseoffraser.com

WHISTLES

DINOSAUR DESIGNS

ASOS

Circle Resin Earring, £35; whistles.com

Mineral Drop Gold-Filled Resin Earrings, £185; net-a-porter.com

Half Hoop Resin Earrings, £6; asos.com

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Beautiful Bespoke Jewellery

Dress to Impress!

Exceptional Pieces for every Occasion Specialist Bespoke Goldsmith and Jeweller Complex Restoration Work & Valuations undertaken on site by Master Jewellers

www.michaelplatt.co.uk Goldsmiths and Jewellers in Wimbledon Village 1 Church Road | Wimbledon Village | London | SW19 5DW Tel. 020 8947 4772 | info@michaelplatt.co.uk

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Hit the Slopes Decliate silks and plush fur trim elevate the cocooning layers of après ski knitwear.

Baby it’s cold outside I z a a k A z a n e i AW 1 7 a v a i l a b l e f r o m i z a a k a z a n e i .c o m

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3 Bennet Court, 1 Bellevue Road, London SW17 7EG

020 3475 6644 • anthonylabanhome.com

For latest news & offers join us @LabanHome

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

LEISURE STYLE AVENUE C We love discovering stylish fitness brands that give us motivation to hit the gym. Designed by the founder of Active in Style, Caroline Lucey, Avenue C is a new athleisure offering that delivers flattering silhouettes in a pared-back colour palette. activeinstyle.com

Beauty Notes: Hair Saviours and The Art of Makeup 56 • Winter Skin SOS 58.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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BEAUTY NOTES

Parisian picks, winter hair saviours and this season's coolest makeup collaboration

By J OY M O N TG O M E RY

Strike a Pose ELEMENTS: THE ART OF

M A K E U P BY YA S M I N H E I N Z

Yasmin Heinz is one of the world’s most in demand makeup artists whose impressive portfolio includes high profile celebrities, fashion brands and glossy magazines. Hand-picked from the archive, ’Elements’ is a sumptuous compilation of Heinz’ most striking work. The ultimate fusion of fashion, beauty and photography.

ELEMENTS: The Art of Makeup by Yasmin Heinz, published by Prestel, £45; amazon.co.uk AUSSIE

UMA

3-Minute Miracle Treatment, £4.99; boots.com

Intensely Nourishing Hair Oil, £54; cultbeauty.com

4 OF THE BEST CONDITIONING HAIR TREATMENTS MOROCCANOIL Hair Treatment, £32.85; feelunique.com

PUREOLOGY

Photo Credit © Karin Berndl

56

Strength Cure Mask, £26.50; cultbeauty.com

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BEAUTY • NOTES

HIGH OCTANE

SALON REVIEW

SKYLER LONDON

NARS X

CHRISTOPER KANE

Christopher Kane is one of London’s best-loved fashion talents and this season he has announced a second show-stopping makeup collaboration with beauty brand NARS. With just the right amount of shimmer and pearlescent shine, the twopiece collection includes an iridescent lipstick and prismatic eyeshadow palette. The answer to your Christmas party makeup woes; £34.

A new hair colour concept comes to Wandsworth Wo r d s GABRIELLE HERNANDEZ

A

narscosmetics.co.uk

EYE CARE

s the capital's first colouronly salon, it is easy to see the time and effort that has gone into establishing Skyler London. The salon experience is impeccable and tailored to create the highest degree of colour perfection.

After being greeted at reception with sweet treats, we have a short consultation with our colourist before the colour is painted on. Each step of the process is explained in depth as we sip on a cup of tea.

What was a vibrant experience during the colouring process transforms into a relaxing spa treatment at the wash basin - we recline on the salon's comfy chairs as the colour

ESTÉE LAUDER

Je Ne Sais Quoi & OT H E R STO R I E S

Adding to their Paris Atelier beauty series, & Other Stories' latest makeup release looks to the understated charm and classicism of French beauty. Created with active natural ingredients, the range delivers premium formulas in stylish packaging. Our top pick? The brooding berry-hued ‘Raisin Égal’ lipstick; £17.

From Estée Lauder's F cult night serum comes Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate. The light yet nourishing formula is packed full of skinloving ingredients and is applied using a soothing massaging applicator; £49.

stories.com

esteelauder.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

OVERNIGHT SUCCESS S U N DAY R I L E Y Loved by beauty bloggers and celebrities alike, Sunday Riley’s Luna Sleeping Night Oil is the blue-hued overnight treatment that tackles everything from fine lines to sun damage.

Enriched with cold-pressed avocado, chia and grape seed oil, the retinol and blue tansy-rich formula works to calm signs of oxidative stress and neutralise free radicals. Think of it as rehab for your skin; £85.

spacenk.com

is rinsed off. Once washed and treated, our hairdresser offers an exquisite scalp massage which quickly has us drifting off to sleep.

We finish off our appointment with a blowdry. Unusually, there is an option to DIY, as the salon offers self-blowdry stations fully equipped with brushes, curling irons and straighteners. Perfect for those who hate leaving the salon feeling too 'done'.

After a trip down the delightful feature slide (oh yes) our big colour reveal takes place in front of a 360 degree mirror. To ensure there would be no surprises, the room features changeable settings to view our look in both warm and cool light.

The real secret to the salon’s success, however, is the team. It is impossible to feel anything but the joy as you witness the passion they have for their craft. We'll certainly be back.

SKYLER LONDON 6 Garratt Lane, SW18 4FT; 020 3474 5555 skylerlondon.com

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BEAUTY • PRODUCTS AESOP

SIMPLE Water Boost Hydrating Booster, £6.99; superdrug.com

Elemental Facial Barrier Cream, £39; cultbeauty.com

ISABEL MARANT AW17

NUXE Crème Fraîche® de Beauté Mask, £19; uk.nuxe.com

ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream Ultra-Rich, £82; elemis.com

SARAH CHAPMAN Intense Hydrating Booster, £58; sarahchapman.com

EGYPTIAN MAGIC All Purpose Cream, £13; selfridges.com

EDITOR’S PICK

WINTER SKIN SOS Give your complexion a pick-me-up with these cold weather heroes

PIXI

Rose Flash Balm, £26; lookfantastic.com

EMMA HARDIE

B y J OY M O N T G O M E R Y LUMITY Food Supplement, From £76.50; lumitylife.com

THE ORDINARY Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, £5.90; theordinary.com

EVE LOM

Brilliance Facial Oil, £35; feelunique.com

Cleanser, £55; lookfantastic.com

ORIGINS Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask, £25; feelunique.com

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SOUTHSIDE | WANDSWORTH

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • WELLNESS

4 OF THE BEST SPORTS BRAS

FITNESS NOTES

From fast and furious cardio to heavy rounds in the ring, these high-impact sports bras will keep you in place during your sweatiest, most vigorous workout

“IF YOU DON’T KNOW YOUR JAB FROM YOUR CROSS, THIS IS WHERE TO START”

LULULEMON Enlite Bra, £78; lululemon.co.uk

VARLEY Bandini Bra, £50; varley.com

LNDR A-Grade Stretch Knit Sports Bra, £50; net-a-porter.com

NIKE Fierce Zonal Support Sports Bra, £47.95; store.nike.com

P.E NATION For the Count ColourBlock Stretch Sports Bra, £80; net-a-porter.com

LEARN THE ROPES AT ONE OF LONDON’S BEST BOXING CLASSES

FIGHTING FIT 1-on-1 session at 12x3

T

raining like a boxer is all about intensity.

With the slogan ‘No Guts, No Glory’ branded across the wall and a coaching team made up of Britain’s most decorated boxers, I expect nothing less from new boxing club 12x3. The brainchild of champion boxers Darren Barker and Ryan Pickard, 12x3 embodies

THE POWER OF BOXING

This high-intensity group fitness circuit has been formulated by former professional boxers and combines cardio boxing exercises and technical pad work for a sweat-sesh like no other. powerofboxing.com

the spirit of the world-famous Repton Boxing Club in Bethnal Green where they first trained under the guidance of Tony Burns MBE. Boxing at Repton gave the duo the discipline and fighting spirit required to win. This new Aldgate-based gym gives fitness fanatics the chance to develop the same winning mentality. I’m here for one-to-one training with club and country boxer Lisa Moore. If you don’t know your jab from your

BXR BOXING

BXR’s Boxing Skills class offers high-intensity rounds of boxing with bodyweight exercises and core drills.

The classes focus on the essential elements of boxing techniques, allowing you to learn and hone your own skills in a group session. bxrlondon.com

cross, this is where to start. Each session reflects a boxing match, in that it is split into 12 rounds of three minutes, with a minute rest between each. We begin with three minutes of rope skipping before moving onto three minutes of sprinting. Next is technique and footwork. I learn from Lisa that the boxing stance is crucial and am put through a number of drills. She also goes through various punching techniques and shows me how to put them into practise with some common combinations. We move into the ring where we go through boxing defence; a rope is tied across the ring under which I bob and weave back and forth. Three minutes of this lasts a lifetime and I feel it in my legs for days after. Next we move onto a few rounds of pad work, where I can put all I’ve learnt into practise, before ending with a round on the bag, three minutes with ropes and medicine ball and a final round of ab exercises. This workout is certainly one of the hardest you’ll find in London; Lisa definitely puts me through my paces and makes me realise that I can push myself harder than I ever do in the gym. £75 for 1 on 1 session, or £25 for 4 on 1 76 Alie Street, E1; 12x3.co.uk

HIIT 45, ANOTHER SPACE

Another Space’s HIIT 45 workout combines toning strength exercises with high-energy punch-bag work for a fast and furious workout that will have your metabolism firing on all cylinders. anotherspace.london

GYMBOX COUNTERPUNCH

This 45 minute boxing workout combines guided heavy bag boxing routines with HIIT training. The class will take you through the basic boxing techniques while improving your overall fitness and muscle tone. gymbox.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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BEAUTY • SCENT

PERFUME

THE DUTCH HAVE A WORD FOR IT Wrap up and indulge in the cosy appeal of ‘Hygge’ fragrances W o r d s M I C H A E L D O N O VA N

N

ow that we are all familiar with the Dane’s definition of happiness, ‘Hygge’, I would like to introduce you to my favourite Dutch word, ‘Gezellig’. This translates roughly as ‘cosy’ but it is so much more - it is the feeling of indulgence and contentment.

There is a lot to be said for cosy fragrances and November is the best to time to get acquainted!

The perfect ‘Gezellig’ fragrance is ‘Amsterdam’, a new scent from Gallivant that celebrates the city’s ingredients for good living: flowers on the window sill, great cake and beautifully made wooden furniture. A genre-defying floral, spicy, woody, ambery fragrance, the conceptual imagining of a black tulip. A spicy aromatic head of elemi, schinus molle co2 extract, Szechuan pepper and saffron. The floral heart contains tulip and rose and a base of cedarwood, musks, sandalwood and amber. ‘Bowmakers’ by D.S & Durga is one of my favourite fragrances the scent of the violin-maker’s workshop. Resin and wood-shavings, varnish and mahogany; it is rich, warm and sumptuous.

A spicy journey to the east, ‘Tan d’Epices’ by Andree Putman is a rich, boozy concoction that ignites the senses. Rich tones of barky cinnamon, mouthwatering gingerbread and smoky, ethereal incense pulse and warm in golden wavelengths, balanced with sweet, hazy heliotrope and light, sharp cedarwood. ‘No. 001 Amber' by Laboratory Perfumes celebrates the peculiarly British anomaly of Amber - a stroll along the East Anglia coastline, where washed

“Snuggle up in a mohair throw and indulge in a ‘Gezellig’ fragrance”

EDITOR’S PICK

up amber can still be seen. Fresh green notes of the diverse grasses carried by the breeze across the windswept plains of the Fens, add energy and vitality to this dynamic fragrance. Amber has a confused natural history in Britain. In France the distinction is clear; Ambre Gris is the solid waxy substance expelled by the sperm whale whilst Ambre Jaune is the fossilised pine resin used in jewellery and embellishment. As both were washed up on the shores of eastern England the two became muddled. This is a wonderfully longlasting scent that uses the former to great effect at the base and manages to be both powerful and demure at the same time. Warming and intense, ‘La Riserva’ is a perfume of great character, in-keeping with Lorenzo Dante Ferro’s commitment to excellence. A fruity and light opening is lent a hint of intrigue with addition of herbal rosemary. As it moves into the heart, La Riserva takes on a delicate spicy character with the addition of black pepper and luxurious saffron. A selection of exquisite Oriental balsams gives a deeply resinous character to the fragrance, before a milky base of sandalwood, vanilla and tonka bean is leant a darker undertone.

Snuggle up in a mohair throw and indulge in a ‘Gezellig’ fragrance this season. You deserve it! roullierwhite.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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FOOD & DRINK

SOUTH AMERICAN FEAST ANDINA

Chef and restaurateur Martin Morales has spent years exploring Peru and in his new book you’ll find everything from light, raw dishes to hearty stews and soups. Quadrille, £27

New London brunches 67 • The River Cafe 68 • Wines of the month 66 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and delicious things to see you through November

By HANNAH HOPKINS

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2016 Vendimia, Palacios Remondo, Rioja £13.50

A wonderful example of youthful Rioja. This wine is fresh and fruity, with flavours of red berry fruit and ripe damson. Soft and creamy in texture, with a touch of spice, it pairs really well with dishes including duck or lamb, grills or casseroles.

2016 Mullineux, Kloof Street, Chenin Blanc, South Africa £15.25

Mullineux’s Kloof Street range is all about freshness, balance and great drinkability. This wine is pale straw in colour, with a nose of sun ripened pears. The palate has a vibrant acidity balanced by a soft, round texture.

2016 Etna Bianco, Graci, Passopisciaro, Sicilia £20.75

A blend of 65 percent Carricante and 35 percent Catarratto, this is Graci's entry-level white.

It has perfumed aromas of white peach, grapefruit and a hint of mandarin on the nose. The palate is energetic yet poised, with lively acidity.

BERRY BROS. & RUDD 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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Tasty Thai T H A I S Q UA R E P U T N E Y

The latest menu from Thai Square brings an elaborate array of dining delights, including a starter of grilled wild tiger prawns with a sweet basil parfait, rocket and radish salad. Panoramic views of the Thames pair perfectly with grilled black cod with miso sauce or even yellow curry with lamb shank.

2-4 Lower Richmond Road, SW15 thaisq.com

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FOOD • NOTES

FROM HEALTHY TO BOTTOMLESS The best new London brunches

DUCK & WAFFLE LOCAL The fast and casual sister restaurant to Duck & Waffle has launched their first ever brunch menu under the direction of Dan Doherty. Try duck and waffle, colombian eggs and shakshuka, as well as new dishes like the breakfast duck burger.

52 Haymarket, SW1Y duckandwafflelocal.com

TROPICS ON THE THAMES COTTONS VAUXHALL

South London has welcomed Cottons Caribbean Rum Shack and Restaurant.

This privately owned space is individually curated and designed. Gather a group and sample the colourful menu of dishes and drinks - ideal for anyone who fancies a taste of the tropics on the Thames.

St Georges Wharf, SW8 cottons-restaurant.co.uk

PUTNEY’S HIDDEN GEM S P OT T E D H O R S E

The doors of the Spotted Horse have reopened to a totally transformed pub. They’ve got their priorities in order, featuring all the favourites, including expertly crafted cocktails, lazy brunches and indulgent sharing dishes.

Their crowning glory is the spectacular rooftop gin bar, Putney’s hidden gem.

122 Putney High Street, SW15 spottedhorse.co.uk

BELLANGER BLOODY MARY SUNDAY BRUNCH Bellanger will be kicking off the first Sunday of every month with a brand new Bloody Mary Sunday Brunch.

Customers will be able to choose from four Grey Goose cocktails from the Bloody Mary bar, before giving their drink a fun DIY twist by creatively infusing fresh flavours into the brunch-favourite tipple.

9 Islington Green, N1 bellanger.co.uk

ORÉE BOULANGERIE

SUNDAY ROAST M I N N OW

It’s getting chillier outside, but the food is heating up.

Following in the British tradition, Minnow will be featuring a Sunday roast menu with the selection rotating every week. Choose between a roast ribeye or hay smoked Yorkshire grouse, along with all the trimmings.

21 The Pavement, SW4 minnowclapham.co.uk

Get a taste of rural France in the capital, as Orée arrives in High Street Kensington. With a mix of hearty and healthier options, this boulangerie is also the place to go if you’re looking for artisanal French fare with a taste created specially for London foodies.

275-277 Fulham Road, SW10 oree.co.uk

QUAGLINO’S Q BRUNCH Quaglino’s have a new Q Brunch menu on Saturdays, which is perfect for whiling away autumn weekends.

The updated offering includes a selection of new delicious brunch dishes and live music, with a roaming band performing a medley of funk, soul and disco hits.

16 Bury Street, SW1Y quaglinos-restaurant.co.uk

MENU MAKEOVER POWDERKEG

Battersea’s favourite neighbourhood bar is relaunching and will specialise in tasty cocktails, British craft beers and an everevolving wine list. Plus, expect dishes with a Spanish and Italian twist.

147 St John's Hill, SW11 powderkegdiplomacy.co.uk

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THE RIVER CAFE I AT 30

Ruth Rogers remembers the early days – and Absolutely tries three recipes from the new book

n March of 1987 Rose Gray and I met for a coffee.

I wanted to tell her about a space that had come up in Thames Wharf where Richard Rogers and Partners had just bought a group of warehouses to convert into offices for their architectural practice.

We met on the Kings Road at Drummonds, which today is McDonalds – so you could say that The River Cafe was actually conceived in a McDonalds. After the coffee, we went to look at the space available.

There were three floor-to-ceiling windows facing south over the Thames and room enough for nine tables. There was a communal garden in the middle. We imagined a vegetable and herb garden. We fell in love with the place, in love with the idea. And so it began.

Rose, Richard and I became partners. Richard did the drawings, the lights came from the Reject Shop, chairs from Habitat and second-hand ovens from a yard in Coventry.

Rose’s husband the artist David Macilwaine, who worked

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with wire, designed our logo. My brother Michael had our menus printed onto baseball caps and tshirts, which he sent us from LA. We called it the River Cafe. The imaginary garden became real and we planted wild rocket, the seeds from a holiday in Tuscany. Our children worked with us – Rose’s and mine. Bo was three.

If restrictions can drive creativity then we definitely had ours. The Hammersmith planners allowed us to be open only at lunchtime and only available to the architects, designers, model makers and framers who worked in the warehouses – people who usually had nothing but a sandwich for their lunch. We made hamburgers, but with mayonnaise using extra virgin olive oil and sandwiches with taleggio and rocket.

We also made Papa Pomodoro, which no one ate. As one customer said, ‘I’m not paying £3.50 for some stale bread and tomatoes.’ We grilled squid and put it with rocket and fresh red chilli. It has been on the menu ever since. We found a recipe for cake and called it Chocolate Nemesis.

The only thing we didn’t make was money. With every sandwich and leftover soup our overdraft increased. The worst day was when a girl came on her bicycle selling sandwiches to all the offices for 25 pence cheaper than ours. We told her she was trespassing and asked her to leave.

Actually, we were also treated as trespassers. A petition was sent to the council, signed by 100 people, complaining.

‘The River Cafe and its clientele are seriously diminishing the tone of the area.’ Fortunately, we also had our fans.

Fay Maschler wrote a review saying, ‘I am going to tell you about a restaurant run by two women with no professional experience, miles from anywhere, that you are not allowed to go to.’

Word spread. We stopped the sandwiches. We were allowed to open to the public. A year later, to open at night until eleven. Finally, we became a restaurant.

“If restrictions can drive creativity then we definitely had ours.”

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

METHOD

Ricotta al Forno U N S A LT E D B U T T E R A N D G R AT E D PA R M E S A N FOR THE DISH

INGREDIENTS  2 handfuls of fresh basil leaves a handful of fresh mint leaves a handful of fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves  500g bufala ricotta  120ml double cream  2 eggs  150g Parmesan, freshly grated  12 black olives, stoned and chopped  sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Using a little butter and some grated Parmesan, coat the bottom and sides of a 30cm springform tin. Shake out any excess cheese.

Put the herbs into the bowl of a food processor and put half of the ricotta and cream on the top. Blend until bright green. Add the remainder of the ricotta and cream and turn on the machine again. While blending, add the eggs one by one. Season with salt and pepper.

Finally, fold in the Parmesan.

Spoon the mixture into the tin and spread the olives over the top. Bake for 20 minutes. The torte should rise and have a brown crust but still be soft in the centre. Serve after 5 minutes.

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AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE IN WAITROSE, MAJESTIC AND 31DOVER.COM

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FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Crab and raw artichoke salad INGREDIENTS  2 medium Violetta artichokes with their stalks juice of 1 lemon  200g white crabmeat  2 teaspoons brown crabmeat  2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley  2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to drizzle

METHOD To prepare each artichoke, first cut off some of the stalk, leaving about 5cm attached. Cut or break off the tough outer leaves, starting at the base, until you are left with the pale inner part. Then peel the stalk with

a potato peeler, leaving only the pale tender centre. Trim the pointed top of the artichoke straight across, which will reveal the choke. Remove the choke with a teaspoon. Slice the artichoke vertically as thinly as possible. As each artichoke is prepared, drop it into a bowl of cold water with half of the lemon juice.

Combine the white and brown crabmeat with the parsley, remaining lemon juice and the extra virgin olive oil. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Drain the artichokes and stir lightly through the crab to combine.

Season again and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

BRANZINO AT SALESEA BASS BAKED IN SALT INGREDIENTS  1 × 1.8kg sea bass, cleaned and gilled but not scaled  1 lemon, sliced  a small handful of dried fennel stalks  3.6kg coarse sea salt

METHOD E X T R AC T TA K E N F R O M

RIVER CAFE 30

by Ruth Rogers, Rose Gray, Sian Wyn Owen and Joseph Trivelli; published by Ebury Press, £28

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Put the lemon and dried fennel stalks inside the cavity of the fish.

Place the salt in a large bowl and add 250ml water. Cover the bottom of the baking dish with half the salt and lay the fish on top. Cover the fish completely with the remaining salt.

Bake the fish in the preheated oven.

After 20 minutes, insert a skewer into the fish. If the tip of the skewer feels very hot when pulled out, the fish is ready.

Crack open the salt crust and remove the hard pieces, ensuring that no salt remains on the flesh of the fish. Carefully lift the fish and place on a platter.

Remove the skin.

Serve warm with Salsa Verde

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bookings 0208 946 8463

www.sanlorenzowimbledon.com 38 WIMBLEDON HILL RD LONDON

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SW19 7PA

020 8644 8523 www.annsdesignercakes.com

08/06/2017 09:40

THAI RESTAURANT

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FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

NO 32

The Old Town

New takes on classic plates from a stylish, design-led space Wo r d s J OY M O N T G O M E R Y

T

he cryptically named No 32 The Old Town is an independent bar and restaurant situated in the yuppie paradise of Clapham. A short walk from the bustling common, No 32 is at first unassuming. Yet, as we draw closer we notice that all the doors are flung open to reveal an airy, open plan interior, replete with large central bar, bustling open kitchen and small dining area. With mis-matched

furniture, tiled floors and industrial light fittings, it could not be more 2017 if it tried. The clientele is a mix of local city boys and glossy blondes enjoying a post-work glass of wine; the atmosphere is fun yet relaxed.

Perusing the menu reveals a small yet well thought-out edit of traditional dishes and sharing plates - think posh twists on British classics. We opt for a selection of three ‘small + sharing’ plates.

The crispy polenta squid offers an unusual spin on classic calamari

FOOD Sumptuous sharing plates and gourmet twists on British classics.

DECOR A mix of minimalist, mis-matched decor and industrial light fittings.

PRICE Sharing plates from £3.95, mains from £9 and puddings from £5.50

VERDICT Comforting yet considered local cuisine within a, design-led space.

and comes with moorish tidbits of coriander, spring onion and chilli and a powerful aioli dip. The quinoa and aubergine falafel is another crowdpleaser, with my veggie dining buddy declaring it the “best she’s ever had”, which is saying something. It is delectably moist, with big chunks of chickpea offering texture, and a creamy tahini sauce on the side. Our final starter is the marinated wild mushroom and parmesan crostini, which is served on a satisfyingly crunchy base. Our dinner date loves the delicate seasoning, however we find mushrooms (which were cold) a little rubbery.

Loosening our belts a little, we move onto mains. We opt for the roast lamb rump, which comes with aubergine and minted feta, and the grilled truffle spring cabbage with baked sweet potato and pepper sauce. The lamb is a glorious pile of salty, fatty rich flavours, which are complemented by intensely smokey strips of aubergine. The sweet potato, meanwhile, is boldly presented, with a quarter cabbage grilled whole and placed next to a generous wedge sweet potato.

The plate is a true celebration of vegetables, with the cabbage’s natural flavour enhanced by the salty truffle shavings. Now sporting generous food babies, we decide to finish our meal with a shared apple tart with vanilla cream. Warm and spicy with a perfectly crispy, thin base, it was everything you could ever want from such a homely classic. Now we just need to work out how to walk home… ●NO 32 THE OLD TOWN 32 The Pavement, SW4 0JE no32theoldtown.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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to book please call

020 8946 3031 Authentic Punjabi Restaurant

mon to fri - 8am - 10.30pm sat - 9am - 10.30pm sun - 9am - 3.30pm

Tasty, Seasonal Cooking lightwimbledon.co.uk | 48 High St, Wimbledon SW19 5AX

Vin and his team specialize in the finest, most authentic Punjabi cuisine, using traditional Tandoor cooking methods and family recipes passed down from generation to generation Try our magnificent champagne beer as well, Curious Brew, the perfect accompaniment to wash down our delicious food

~

three course evening set menu £22.50 or two courses with a glass of house wine

“This is the best Indian in London. I work in central London and haven’t found anywhere that compares, brick lane falls way short in comparison…”

offer available until the end of november - monday to friday. mention offer when booking.

tuesday nights - 2 rib-eye steaks, chips, salad and a bottle of house wine - £45

J. Macdonald,Wimbledon

193 Worple Road, Wimbledon SW20 8RE 020 8947 2212 info@sairestaurant.co.uk www.sairestaurant.co.uk

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early evening set menu offer

3 courses £23.95 order before 7.30pm - monday to thursday offer available until end of november.

to make a booking call 020 8944 6338 Wimbledons favourite neighbourhood restaurant.

Great value set menus.

Seasonal cooking at its best www.lighthousewimbledon.com 75-77 ridgway wimbledon SW19 4ST

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FOOD & DRINK • SEASONAL

Venison meatballs with tomato sauce

T

his is another way to get the best value from the cheaper cuts of venison – or indeed from a hare, rabbit or pheasant if you are lucky enough to have had rrather ather a lot of either of them recently.

If you want to bulk this dish out it can be served on your favourite pasta – mine is penne. One day I must try cooking this on top of a layer of pasta – perhaps even with some spinach under the pasta – but I cannot think what to put finally on top. Cheese sauce? But sometimes my wife and our carers suggest why not do something that we know works well.

R EC I P E

GAME ON Veteran Tory MP Norman Tebbit wrote his book The Game Cook after conversations with his local butcher. First published in 2009, it’s now back in print and full of humour. Here’s a great venison recipe; wild venison is in season from September to the end of February, farmead venison is available all year round.

INGREDIENTS  450g/1lb venison, minced  1 medium onion (ideally red), finely chopped  50g/2oz fresh white breadcrumbs  1 tsp ground cumin  1 tsp ground coriander  1 fresh red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped  1 egg, beaten  Freshly ground black pepper  Handful of chopped coriander and flat parsley  Salt (optional)  2 tbsp olive oil

DEER DIARY

1

There are six species of wild deer living in Britain: red, sika, fallow, roe, muntjac and Chinese water deer.

2

Venison eaten in the UK tends to come from five of these species, the exception being Chinese Water deer.

3

Red deer and fallow deer are the main species to be farmed commercially.

4

Most farmed deer meat comes from red deer, which is the largest of the UK’s species and is native to the country.

5

Depending on the diet of the deer, the meat may have a subtle taste of juniper or sage, and there are variations in flavour depending on the species.

For example, the meat of the mighty red deer has a richer, bolder flavour than the more delicately flavoured roe or fallow.

The Game Cook

by Norman Tebbitis published by Grub Street, £14.99

METHOD

For the meatballs, thoroughly mix in a bowl, the onion, minced venison (or other game), breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, chilli, egg, a little freshly ground black pepper and the chopped parsley and coriander. I use very little salt but you may want to add a little at this stage. I prefer to combine ingredients like this by hand (even if the ’phone does always go when I am doing so) but you could use a processor – but it is easy to overdo it and lose the texture (and it is something to get out, wash up and put away). Anyway, you have to use your hand to form balls – no bigger than golf balls.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4. It is best to start with the sauce so that it can simmer away while you make the venison balls. Heat the oil in a casserole, or a stainless-steel pan with a good lid. Fry the onion until it is soft and golden. Add the chopped tomatoes, passata (or purée), red wine and pepper sauce. Try the taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

Then leave it simmering on a low heat. If it threatens to dry out, add a little warm water.

Heat the oil in a big frying pan and fry the balls in batches, if needs be, until they are nicely brown all over.

Put them on to kitchen paper to take off any surplus oil, then place in a casserole with the sauce. Make sure the lid is firmly on, then put them in the oven for 40-45 minutes, by which time they should be cooked through and the sauce nicely thickened. Serve straight onto plates, over the pasta if you are using that.

FO R T H E S AU C E 1 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 400g/14oz can chopped tomatoes 500g/1lb 2oz carton passata (sieved tomatoes) or 4 tbsp tomato purée  300ml/10fI oz red wine  2 tsp hot pepper sauce (or a mixture of ½ tsp paprika and ¼ tsp chilli powder)  Salt and freshly ground black pepper    

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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OAK AGED PARQUET

Beautiful f looring, designed to last Over 100 designs | Expert advice | 20,000m2 of stock | Fast delivery SHOWROOM 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG 020 8871 9771

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INTERIORS

COLOUR STORY LAURA SPRING One of our favourite London Design Festival discoveries is Laura Spring, the Scottish textile designer whose instinctive way with colours and prints manifests in her collection of textiles.

Her range includes wall hangings, rugs and accessories. lauraspring.co.uk

Wallace Sewell – design duo 82 • At home with Donna Ida

86 • Gardening 91.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS NOTES

Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

Modern LOVE FERM LIVING Ferm Living’s furniture is carefully designed and crafted within the Danish design tradition.

Made of the most natural and honest materials, the collection is beautifully minimalist and flexible, with table tops in varying sizes. We love the Mingle table and Herman chair combination pictured here. fermliving.com

BOOK CLUB LUMIO

Lumio’s simple, beautiful and functional products include this clever compact lamp and battery pack that folds out like the pages of a book. Recharge your phone with it; use it as a reading lamp and admire its simple beauty. hellolumio.com

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INTERIOR • NOTES O

F AV UR

FL

OR

ITE

A OR

LS

JONATHAN ADLER Mrs Godfrey chair, £1,895 jonathanadler.com

BLACK EDITION Herbaria fabric, £80 per roll blackedition.com

COLOUR CODE LOAF

Create a truly bespoke Souffle design with different positioning varieties and the option to mix and match fabric and colour on each of the sofa sections – pictured is Loaf’s vintage velvet fabrics in chalky blue, chalky pink and soothing grey.

GREEN DAY RICHARD BRENDON

A limited edition run of the highly successful teaware Richard Brendon meets Patternity ties in with the announcement that Marrs Green has been voted the world’s favourite colour. Hand-made in Stoke-on-Trent, this striking contemporary bone china teaware is now available in this fresh and vibrant teal shade. richardbrendon.com

LIBERTY FOR ANTHROPOLOGIE Tamsin dining chair, £118 anthropologie.com

loaf.com

CELIA BIRTWELL Fabulous floral fabrics and papers blendworth.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

PLY AGAIN

THE RUG COMPANY Chiaroscuro by Alexander McQueen therugcompany.com

MACMASTER

GUCCI HOME Herbarium butterfly candle, £320 gucci.com

Plywood is having a moment and we’re particularly loving plywood lighting. Inspired by the tulip bud, this delicate yet strong lamp is from MacMaster Design, £795 macmasterdesign.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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C R E AT O R S

OF THE WORLD’S MOST DESIRABLE FIREPLACES

We created our unique FIRE RIBBON BURNER technology in 2003 with a large, glamorous and distinctive flame quality

CVO Fire | Unit 4 Beaumont Square | Newton Aycliffe | County Durham | DL5 6XN 01325 301020 | sales@cvo.co.uk | www.cvo.co.uk

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INTERIORS • HOMEWARE EVASOLO Decanter carafe, £55 evasolo.com

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Round brass and marble drinks trolley, £395 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

ALESSI Alessandro M. corkscrew, £29 amara.com

LSA Gin cocktail jug and stirrer, £38 lsa-international.com

STELTON Glacier wine cooler, £60 stelton.com

EVA SOLO

MIAFLEUR

Carafe, £48 evasolo.com

Gold console tables, £388 audenza.com

COCKTAIL HOUR Barware is having a revival. Here are some stylish accessories for the well-stocked cabinet

SAGAFORM Club All Purpose Glasses, £28 for four furnish.co.uk

By PENDLE HARTE TOM DIXON RICHARD BRENDON

EDITOR’S PICK

Tank decanter gift set, £130 tomdixon.net

Diamond decanter and two double Old Fashioned glasses, £330 richardbrendon.com

ALESSI Circus wine cooler, £180 madeindesign.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Fabric of

SOCIETY As the Fashion and Textile Museum opens a new show focusing on London design duo Wallace Sewell, Absolutely looks at their colourful work Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

B JEREMIAH THROW ON BED. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES CHAMPION, 2016.

82

ritish design duo Emma Sewell and Harriet Wallace-Jones have been producing colourful textiles from their London studio since 1992. Their work spans Transport for London moquettes and huge woven artworks as well as a large collection of scarves, blankets and cushions.

The display charts a story of 21st century textile success, with global commercial sales rooted in British design education and UK manufacturing. Wallace Sewell create their innovative fabrics on hand looms using traditional techniques. Work is then sent to a Lancashire mill, established in 1776, for manufacture.

Colour and geometry meet in their abstract designs, which display the influence of Paul Klee, the Bauhaus and Bridget Riley. Although trained at British art schools in the traditional skills of drawing and painting, rather than mixing an artist’s palette of colours, they weave their fine blend of hues through thread. Colour is integrated into the structure of weaving to create pattern, whilst contrasting yarns mix to create open gauzy textures with felted areas.

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • TEXTILES

PORTRAIT OF HARRIET & EMMA. PHOTOGRAPH BY ANGELA MOORE, 2013.

“The abstract designs reveal influences including Paul Klee, the Bauhaus and Bridget Riley” A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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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

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INTERIORS • TEXTILES

Wallace Sewell continues until 21 January 2018 ftmlondon.org

From cushions and throws to scarves and upholstery, the display underlines the immense variety of Wallace Sewell’s output. Highlights include an Anni Albers-inspired oversized art work and original pieces from Emma and Harriet’s graduation shows. The retrospective will also include drawings and design swatches which unravel Wallace Sewell’s fascinating work processes. Textiles on display range from striped silks and sculpted wool crepe, to cashmere, transparent organza and patchwork cotton chenille. However, scarves will be a highlight of the show, as like small paintings, they provide the perfect canvas for Wallace Sewell’s designs. The display demonstrates Wallace Sewell’s strong relationships with international museums including MOMA New York, Dulwich Picture Gallery, the Royal Academy and Tate. The designer’s sensibility for abstract pattern and composition has enabled their collections of textiles to sit alongside major exhibitions. These designs have included a pair of silk block scarves in a vibrant colour palette of primary blue, fuchsia and orange inspired by the Tate’s Henri Matisse: Cut Outs exhibition.

In 2007, Wallace Sewell followed in the footsteps of designers such as Enid Marx,

Marianne Straub and Jacqueline Groag to design ‘moquette’ fabric for Transport for London. Their iconic upholstery for the underground (Barman 2011) is inspired by the London skyline, whilst the orange and brown geometric design for the London Overground is pure abstraction.

These seminal designs, influenced by Russian Constructivism and mid-century modern, will be shown in stacked cubes, each upholstered in a different moquette fabric.

1. BAKERLOO MOQUETTE 2. MONASTARY & DUO SCARVES. 3. CROSSRAIL ELIZABETH MOQUETTE 4. EPPING WOOL CREPE SCARF Photograph by Kathryn Bell, 2017 5. STRIPED WARP ON LOOM AT MILL. Photograph Kate Walsh, 2016

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Pink

LADY Chelsea’s queen of denim, Donna Ida, talks us through her pragmatic attitude to home decorating

W

Wo r d s P E N D L E H A R T E

hen you’re the kind of person who launches a successful business out of nothing, and then moves seamlessly from retail into design and becomes highly respected in your self-taught field, you’re probably good at making decisions. And your decisions are probably always the right ones. When Donna Ida started out, she was selling jeans with the aim of improving the experience of choosing and buying them, and soon she was designing her own denim collection. Now, 11 years after her first foray into the fashion industry, her own-brand denim has overtaken the other established brands she stocks, and she also designs, produces and wholesales an entire womenswear collection too. So when it came to doing up her home, her businesslike approach stood her in good stead. “I just did it all on the internet,” she says.

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INTERIORS • HOME TOUR

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • HOME TOUR

Ida lives in a Victorian pub in Pangbourne, Berkshire, which she and her husband converted into a spacious open plan home 18 months ago by ripping everything out and reconfiguring the entire space. It was a huge project and they had never done anything like it before. But their personalities helped. “I’m very decisive and my husband, Bobby Dazzler, is great. He’s really good and says yes to everything,” she tells me proudly. “I knew I wanted to paint it all white so I did. The builder would phone me up and say we needed taps so I’d just go online and choose them.”

This is an unusual approach. Most people are so overwhelmed by the number of paint colours on offer and the excess of available taps, tiles and fittings that choosing anything leads to a total paralysis in decision-making and rowing with their partner. Not for Donna and Bobby. “He loves everything,” she says – while she knows exactly what she likes. “I stopped at a traffic light right outside the Little Greene paint shop in Marylebone and chose my paint colour right then and there. When I got home I rang them and ordered it; then when I needed a similar but a bit more biscuity colour for one of the bathrooms I rang him again and described what I wanted – and he sent it. Easy.”

“For someone with a pink sofa and a pair of chihuahuas called Romeo and Julio, Donna Ida is very sensible and un-princessy” For someone with a pink sofa and a pair of chihuahuas called Romeo and Julio, Ida is very sensible and un-princessy. She’s not one to splurge and definitely keen on a bargain.

“Expensive stuff isn’t worth the worry,” she announces. “We have a beautiful rug from The Rug Company, but it’s so stressful. The dog weed on it. The only other expensive thing we have is a handmade Italian coffee table in white leather. Again, the dog weed on it. It’s just not worth it.” Far better to find dining chairs on eBay or paint an old sideboard. She’s resourceful like that.

Is the house finished? Most people never declare their houses finished. Apart from Donna. “I filled it. There’s no space for another chair,” she says. Though she might squeeze in another print somewhere in her photography collection, among the Terry O’Neills, Mick Rocks and Vee Speers. What about regrets?

Again, no fuss. She’s happy with the lot of it.

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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HELPING NATURE LOOK STYLISH

• 18 Years of experience • Turnkey Solutions • Complete Design and build service • Post build maintenance • Offices in London and Cape Town Patrick Anhaeusser 07894 985 775 patrick@urbanxteriors.com

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PMLandscapes Garden design & construction

• Garden Refurbishment and Development • Excellent Customer References and Testimonials • Free Consultation and Quoting • With Over 20 years experience Contact Patrick Martin 020 8835 8441 or 07961 311 015 email info@pmlandscapes.co.uk www.pmlandscapes.co.uk

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INTERIORS • GARDENING

Grass ROOTS Top garden tips for maintaining a lavish lawn

Wo r d s PAT R I C K M A R T I N • G a r d e n s P M L A N D S C A P E S

U

rban lawns are often subject to a unique set of potential problems which can make the up-keep a

challenging prospect.

Play area, football pitch and pet pen are some of the demands placed on the lawn and it only takes a couple of hours, used in this way, for damage to be done. Lawns located under or near to large trees are in line for additional punishment.

Large trees extract nutrients from the soil, cast shade and worst of all, deposit a blanket of leaves during autumn. If you only do one bit of lawn maintenance - other then mowing, rake up the leaves as fast as possible.

Regular mowing throughout the season is a good idea to avoid letting the grass grow long before a short cut which can dry out the roots.

All considering, it is not surprising

that there has been a significant shift from natural lawns to hard wearing, minimal maintenance artificial grass.

Some years ago, artificial grass was not really a viable option - brittle, fake looking and obviously plastic, it often resembled the type of material that covered the display outside the green grocers shop front. In fact it is quite feasible that this material and some of the early artificial grass products were one and the same!

Nowadays, artificial grass is a completely different prospect.

Numerous companies have sprung up offering both a supply and installation service. Some of the products are very realistic including such detail as gold and brown strands mixed into the pile

“Years ago, artificial grass was not a viable option - brittle, fake and obviously plastic” to imitate the look of natural grass and ‘memory pile’ to ensure that the grass stands up even after heavy use. A useful guide when choosing an artificial grass product, is to view a sample from the side - if the grass is totally flat then chances are that is exactly what your lawn will look like too! If, on the other hand, the pile is more vertical and brushes up easily, then you should get a much better result. A pile of 30 to 40mm is probably best for this.

If you are thinking about artificial grass installation, make sure that your contractor specifies a timber

frame to contain the sand base and to provide a secure fixing point which should hold the artificial grass in place over time even with heavy use.

A cheaper but far less satisfactory method is to simply fix the grass with spikes straight into the sand base avoid!

A weed control fabric laid between the sand base and the artificial grass is also essential.

In gardens with poor drainage or soft ground, it is necessary to first lay and compact a layer of type 1 Mot (a type of c hipped aggregate) to stabilise the ground and improve drainage so that the artificial lawn dries quickly after rainfall.

PM LANDSCAPES offer free consultations and quotes for complete design and build garden projects including artificial lawns and will supply samples of artificial grass products to view.

www.pmlandscapes.co.uk

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www.theradiatorgallery.com

www.simply-burlingtonbathrooms.co.uk

www.simply-lefroy.co.uk

www.freestanding-baths.co.uk

Head office showroom: 140 Hermon Hill, South Woodford, London E18 1QH Tel: 0208 530 7555 Brentwood showroom: 5-7 Coptfold Rd, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4BN Tel: 01277 233378 (closed Mondays) Wandsworth showroom: 621 Garratt Lane, Wandsworth, London, SW18 4SX Tel: 0208 944 2001

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INTERIORS • SEASONAL DESIGN LETTERS

L'OREAL

Christmas calendar to fill yourself, £55 cissywears.com

Advent calendar exclusive to Selfridges, £120 selfridges.com

PRESTAT Rocking horse advent calendar, £22.50 prestat.co.uk

FORTNUM & MASON Musical advent calendar, £150 fortnumandmason.com

JO MALONE

AMAZON BEAUTY

Advent calendar filled with fragrances and candles, £300 jomalone.co.uk

advent calendar, £50 amazon.co.uk

NUMBER GAME Advent calendars are cleverer than ever this year. Here are some of the best ones

By PENDLE HARTE

EDITOR’S PICK

MORRIS & CO Pure Advent Calendar, £40 amazon.co.uk

TINC Advent calendar filled with stationery, gadgets and accessories, £28 tinc.uk.com

BISCUITEERS Limited edition calendar by Susie Watson, £60 biscuiteers.com

CRAFT BEER ADVENT CALENDAR £59.99 amazon.co.uk

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Eternal FLAMES

Open fires, wood burners and gas flames create atmosphere as well as warmth

By P E A R L B OY D

1 Wood burning stoves are fantastic heating appliances, providing your home with and wonderful cosy feel. Why not upgrade to a Defra approved, SIA Eco Design ready appliance? Grate Expectations' experienced Hetas qualified team will happily offer advice and guidance. grateexpectations.com

Fires create instant cosiness – they look good and improve everybody’s mood

The Forest Bailiff is a unique, homely and inspirational setting, where you can see and feel the warmth. Chat by the fire about everything from stove choice through to arranging a HETAS installer, selecting a hearth or surround, and ultimately supplying you with logs and fireside accessories. 36 Durham Road, SW20; forestbailiff.co.uk

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INTERIORS • FOCUS

AC C E S S O R I Z E YO U R S T OV E …

RAE FEATHER Large wood basket, £140 raefeather.com

BLOMUS Fireplace tool set, £160 black-by-design.co.uk

3 The London Fireplaces offers a full service, keeping in mind the efficiency and government regulations along with fuel requirements of clients; as a Gas Safe and HETAS-approved retailer, their fireplace solutions are extensive. thelondonfireplaces.com

4

Burning wood can be a carbon neutral alternative - a kilogram of wood produces at least three times as much heat in a stove than an open fire. Stoves are up to 80% efficient, compared to around 15% for an open fire. kindlestoves.co.uk

Greater London is a Smoke Control Area but we can still enjoy a real fire. The cleanest burning stoves are approved by DEFRA for use in cities and there are plenty to choose from.

GARDEN TRADING Fireside tool set, £85 gardentrading.co.uk

BLOMUS Fabric log basket, £105 black-by-design.co.uk

MOORE DESIGNS Chestnut roaster, £44 mooredesigns.co.uk

THE CONTEMPORARY HOME Coal storage bucket, £20 tch.net

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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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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INTERIORS • ACCESSORIES

KITCHEN STORY Our selection of stylish and practical pieces that you can’t be without

By PENDLE HARTE

50 SHADES D UA L I T

MEASURE UP BRABANTIA

As well as storing food safely, these stylish measuring cups help you to cook just the right amount.Plus, for every jar sold, Brabantia will make a donation equivalent to training one person to The Hunger Project - a global, non-profit organisation committed to the sustainable end of world hunger by 2030.

Dualit works with trend forecasters to determine the exact shades that contemporary kitchens require, and the resulting toasters come in similar but subtly different shades of Porcelain, Feather, Shadow and Powder. Yes, they're all pale neutrals, but getting it exactly right makes all the difference. dualit.com

brabantia.com

Sicilian Style SMEG

Smeg has teamed up with Dolce&Gabbana to launch its second collection of small domestic appliances.

The spectacular ‘Sicily is my Love’ range includes a blender, citrus juicer, stand mixer, coffee machine, toaster, kettle and slow juicer, all adorned with vivid decorative Sicilian motifs.

HOT SHOT D E LO N G H I

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smeguk.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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INTERIORS • PRODUCTS

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ISAK Midnattssol Cooking Pot, £25 isak.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

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METAL HEADS

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POSTCARDS HOME BURGON & BALL

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A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION

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KIds Notes: Books, fashion and a toucan lamp 103 • Education 105 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES BOOK R EV I EW

Spanish Tots L A C O Q U E TA

La Coqueta may be based in north London but its heart remains in Spain, where children’s clothes are designed to withstand the test of time. These classic pieces are beautifully made and ever stylish. lacoquetakids.com

A SKINFUL OF SHADOWS

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SMALLTALK Reading material, Spanish style and a yellow toucan

101 DALMATIONS FOLIO SOCIETY

The Folio Society's beautiful new edition of Dodi Smith's classic The Hundred and One Dalmatians is introduced by former Children’s Laureate Jacqueline Wilson, who explains how the book won her heart when she first read it as a child. Sara Ogilvie’s charismatic duotone illustrations heighten both the fun and energy of the story. £39.95; foliosociety.com

BAD DAD

T

he English civil war provides the background for Costa winner Frances Hardinge’s new novel; a dark, dangerous time when ideas could undo you, it’s the perfect setting for her brand of dark, thoughtprovoking fantasy. Makepeace is a typical Hardinge heroine too: small, lonely and used to avoiding others’ attention, but with a toughness and resilience that sets her apart. In this story, that toughness has its own special manifestation and Makepeace harbours inside her the ghost of a huge, angry bear. Whether the bear will be her saviour or the means of her destruction is the issue that drives the plot as Makepeace flees across a divided land, desperately trying to escape her family and heritage. Unlike anything else, this is a book that will stay with readers long after the last page has turned.

YOU CAN TOUCAN

DAV I D WA L L I A M S

C O N R A N S TO R E

David Walliams' tenth novel for children is out this month, and it's as fresh, funny and original as his first. Bad Dad is is about a boy named Frank whose dad is thrown into prison for driving the getaway car in a bank robbery.

Lamps for children's rooms don't need to be too childish.

Even though this lamp by French brand Bleu Carmin is a yellow toucan, we'd happily move it to the sitting room if the children deem it too babyish.

harpercollins.co.uk

conranshop.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Christmas at Battersea Arts Centre

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EDUCATION • SCHOOLS

ART AWARD A pupil at White House Prep School in Clapham has won a Fourth Plinth Schools Award 2017. Edward Watson, a Year 6 pupil, won the award for his work London Life Goes Round.

Every year City Hall invites London’s primary and secondary school children to create artworks inspired by the commissions for the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square and London life. Artist David Shrigley and Deputy Mayor for Culture Justine Simons presented the award to Edward. And his work was put on show at a special exhibition at City Hall.

THINK ON

The headmaster of North Bridge House Prep School on why children should study Philosophy as well as Maths and English Wo r d s B R O D I E B I B B Y

“W

hy are we here?” “Why is the sky blue?”

Whatever the lesson, children naturally ask the big questions in life. And among teaching and learning objectives and exam preparation, it’s this very curiosity that schools should act upon.

In today’s results-driven society, schools may question the place of philosophy on the curriculum. Children are naturally curious and want to query how the world works, but isn’t philosophy too difficult for them – a tangent too deviant to structure into lessons that actually help them learn?

In my experience, philosophy is best taught through conversation – particularly

in prep school – because it requires a response. Given children’s levels of understanding at this age, they need a group to challenge them and bounce ideas around. As they grow up, they will develop the ability to internalise conversations and flesh out ideas critically in their own minds.

The academic benefits of teaching philosophy can be enormous. Group discussion helps children learn how to express and convey their thoughts, whilst teaching them to respect the differing opinions of others. As they consider the alternative views of their classmates, they become more open-minded and learn to explore other trains of thought.

NBH Prep School’s outstanding results certainly seem to illustrate the academic worth of philosophy for our pupils, who become very adept at analysing ideas

as they join the top senior schools in the country. Exploring more than one possible answer to a question encourages pupils to think in a different way, beyond things being accepted as simply ‘right’ or ‘wrong’.

Philosophy nurtures the art of listening, of assessing the validity of what has been said and developing an argument to support one’s standpoint. These abilities endure long after school and throughout life. The Education Endowment Foundation has found that a year of philosophy results in pupils making two-month’s additional progress in maths and reading.

At its core, philosophy is about developing rational thought - the ability to think through a problem following a logical series of steps, which underpins learning across all subjects, from maths to comprehension.

I believe that Philosophy for Children develops their moral compasses, promoting honesty and integrity and encouraging them to consider the effects of their actions.

Bertrand Russell once said: “Most people would rather die than think; many do.”

Looking around my class of eager young philosophers, I know that fate will never befall them.

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TRAVEL

STAR OF THE MEDITERRANEAN Whether it’s a city break, beach resort or sightseeing holiday you’re after, Mallorca has it all. This month Absolutely visits two of the area’s most exciting luxury resorts and basks in its sunny personality and soulful hill towns.

Mallorcan Luxury: Discover the star of the Mediterranean 108 • Amsterdam in Style 115.

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TRAVEL • NOTES

POSTCARD PERFECT Ravishing beaches, azure views and soulful hill towns make Mallorca the star of the Mediterranean Wo r d s J E S S I C A S H A LT O U T

M

allorca, the largest island in the Balearics, may make you think of beach resorts, but there is so much more to the island, as we discovered on a recent trip. Once viewed as an 18-30’s style getaway, the island has undergone a transformation, making it a great cultural yet affordable break.

Beginning our trip in Palma, where we stayed for three days, we immediately took to wandering the magical winding cobbled streets, strolling along the port, breathing in the sea air, drifting between the shops, and stopping off in the many cafes and eateries. Palma has a very cosmopolitan feel, much like Barcelona or Madrid.

Too often overlooked as the airport gateway to Mallorca, the island’s capital city is a hotbed of architectural diversity, whose rich historical heritage is matched by stunning examples of architecture which place the city amongst the very best of Spain. From the quaint crumbling remnants of the city’s Moorish past embodied in its tiny Banys Arabs (Moorish baths) and the imposing grandeur of the vast Gothic Cathedral (La Seu) to the startling modernity of the concrete and glass slotted seamlessly within the old renaissance walls of Es Baluard (home to the Museum of Contemporary Art), Palma hosts some exceptional examples of architecture.

For shoppers, Palma offers a mix of quality shopping, designer boutiques, high street favourites, artisan and antique shops. It is the perfect size for shopping, big enough to have the variety of shops you’d expect from a capital city but small enough to walk around. We also A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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23/10/2017 10:33

TRAVEL • NOTES

Double rooms at Puro Hotel Mallorca are from 120 Euro in low season, rising to 490 Euro in high season. Rooms at Park Hyatt Mallorca are from 290 Euro in low season and 590 Euro in high season.

took time to enjoy the multitude of markets largely offering residents fresh local produce including recently caught fish.

Mercat de L’Olivar is the largest market selling most produce and is located towards the train station.

Previously viewed as perhaps a little old fashioned, Mallorca has undergone a fresh wave of design-savvy hotels and Puro Hotel is proof of that. Situated in the Old Town, it is converted from an 18th-century palace hotel in the former fish-market district, keeping its charm. Inside, the hotel has a modern and contemporary feel, while also paying homage to many cultures. Centred around a courtyard with white stones, palms and fountains there is an instantly tranquil feel allowing you to be taken away from the bustling city vibe.

There are 51 rooms at Puro, most overlooking the courtyard, some the cobbled streets of Old Town, all with nods to different designs inspired by Marrakesh, Bali and Miami. Ours was a wonderful mezzanine suite that featured all the latest mod-cons from the likes of Bose, a large

luxury bathroom and king sized bed. As I lay relaxing in the pool-sized white washed bath I was able to admire the design, which is different for each room. The many textures and fabrics, of ropes, white stone, linen and cotton, wicker and carved wooden doors, simultaneously create a sense of grandeur and minimalism.

Beyond the rooms, there is more to Puro, which has a rooftop terrace featuring a

coast in the Cap Vermell estate overlooking Canyamel valley staying at Park Hyatt. This hotel is only two years old and laid out like a traditional Mallorcan village. Despite it being fairly new, it still has an authentic feel supported by all the flowers, streams and paths that meander around the hotel.

We found the facilities here excellent, with two pools (one for adults and one for families), a gym, tennis courts and of course the sumptuous Serenitas Spa. For golf lovers there are also many golf courses close by. Being six months pregnant I could not help but indulge in a luxury massage, so we treated ourselves to a couples room, where you are able to enjoy your treatments together, as well as relax in the facilities after. A visit to the spa is well worth it.

It’s a fairly big hotel with 142 rooms and an understated taupe and stone decor throughout. All have terraces and some a small garden. Ours had a beautiful view overlooking mountains rich in vegetation.

Much like our previous hotel we were spoilt with all the latest mod cons, there was even at TV in the mirror.

There is plenty of variety in terms of food and drink, with four restaurants to chose from, meaning you can easily last a few days without even leaving the hotel. The Balearic restaurant serves traditional Majorcan food while Café Sa Plaça is also good for a light lunch. In Asia restaurant, the menu changes according to the countries that visiting chefs are from. The Tapas gastrobar is home to chef David García, who won a Michelin star at Albora in Madrid.

The hotel provides a shuttle service to Canyamel Beach, a three-minute drive

“Previously seen as a little oldfashioned, Mallorca has undergone a fresh wave of design-savvy hotels.” small pool surrounded by Balinese beds, while those seeking a slightly more upbeat tempo will find it at OPIO, the hotel’s clubby DJ-hosted bar. We took ourselves off to one of the beach clubs that Puro owns, PuroBeach, where you can’t help but feel like you are a cool beach club in Ibiza as you lay on your bed listening to music and drinking cocktails. This is one of six beach clubs Puro own around Europe, where they create an oasis experience. Book beds in advance as they get busy in peak period. We didn’t make it to the spa, but this, along with the events facilities that Puro offers, just adds to their array of services.

Having enjoyed the city for a few days, my husband and I decided to take ourselves off for a more rural retreat on the east

away. Here, you can spend the day basking in the sun, or try water sports from snorkelling to sailing, before grabbing refreshments from the restaurant at Cap Vermell Beach Hotel, where the bill can be directly transferred to your Park Hyatt room.

For visiting this hotel, I would definitely recommend hiring a car. While you can relax in the serenity of this resort for a few days, there is plenty to do around the island of Mallorca, as we discovered. Not only are there beaches and coves to explore, but there are many small fishing towns and markets around the island. My favourite site was when we stumbled across San Salvador, Mallorca’s second most important place of pilgrimage. Although the drive up is somewhat of a challenge the views at the top are well worth it as you overlook the whole island. So whether it’s a city break, beach resort or a sightseeing holiday you’re after, Mallorca has it all.

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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.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL KNIGHTSBRIDGE

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

020 7591 1202

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THE FOOD

THE HOTEL

T

owering proud above the city, The Balmoral Hotel has been a landmark in Edinburgh since it began life as a grand railway hotel in 1902. It’s majestic clock tower dominates the capital’s skyline, while its castle views are some of the city’s most coveted.

The luxury stay recently underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment, led by Olga Polizzi who is celebrated for her contemporary twists on traditional design. She has remained respectful of the hotel’s history and its prestigious address at No. 1 Princes Street.

out in calming hues of blue and lavender that worked wonders to relax the mind and body. Wizarding wannabes will marvel at the JK Rowling suite which has also undergone a restyle. Famously, this is where JK Rowling finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. From the purple door with its brass owl knocker to her writing desk and the bust that Rowling herself signed, the room is a magical treasure trove filled with subtle nods to her wizarding world.

weekend

M

ichelin-starred Number One is easily one of Edinburgh’s finest restaurants. It presents modern Scottish cuisine in a plush and inviting setting. From Inverurie hogget to Valrhona chocolate tart, head chef Brian Grigor serves up some of Scotland’s most creative dishes. The smoked salmon is a must during your stay; the hotel has it’s own secret smoking method and the result is to-die-for.

Over in the Scotch Bar you’ll find over 400 malts and blends, accompanied by unusual bar snacks. The guys here really know their stuff so do put their knowledge to the test. Then, work off that whiskey hangover with afternoon tea in the awardwinning Palm Court. Here you can chose from 20 loose-leaf teas to sip alongside an array of amuse bouche, sandwiches, pastries and homemade scones fresh from the oven.

DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY

“A magical treasure trove filled with nods to Rowling’s wizarding world.”

Grandiose and elegant, The Balmoral Hotel stands as the jewel in the crown of Edinburgh’s Princes Street Wo r d s HELEN BROWN

THE ROOMS

P

olizzi’s attention to detail shines in the elegance of the rooms.

Each embodies a Scottish woodland theme and her colour palette reflects the country’s heathers, lochs and moors. Ours was done

Available from £357 per night based on two adults sharing on a half board basis.

The Balmoral Hotel, 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2EQ 0131 556 2414; roccofortehotels.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Looking for an unforgettable Christmas party?

Get into the Christmas spirit at Dorsett Shepherd’s Bush!

Whether it is family, friends or colleagues, our 4 star hotel has all the trimmings to make your Christmas Party extra special during one of the most wonderful times of the year!

Indulge our exquisite 3 course Christmas Menu and more from only £27.50 per person! *Minimum 10 people

Dorsett Shepherds Bush. London

Book Now:

58 Shepherds Bush Green, London W12 8QE

T: +44 (0) 203 262 1026

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

AM STER DAM

in Style A grown-up place to stay in an ageless city Wo r d s K U R T G A N D E R - H O W E

N

o one could be bored in Amsterdam and like many before me; I’d visited on numerous occasions as a student.

After all, cheap and quick flights coupled with affordable hostels make it an attractive weekend away regardless of your budget.

Now that my student days are behind me, it was time to revisit the city as a fully-fledged ‘adult’, replacing the cheap flights and hostels with a mini-road trip across northern Europe and a stylish stay in the form of the Pulitzer Hotel.

After a few hours cruising through the Dutch farmland and sea defences, we arrived at our destination, where we found the Pulitzer straddled by the Prinsengracht canal on one side and Keizersgracht canal on the other, making the hotel perfectly positioned within the city’s most fashionable Negen Straatjes (Nine Streets) quarter, home to charming cafes, chic boutiques and some of the best restaurants in town. Also home to Amsterdam’s one and only car stacker (Pulitzer’s own), it made short work of parking in a notoriously non car-friendly city.

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REACH YOUR PEAK

Experience the ultimate in fitness and relaxation at The Peak Health Club & Spa, Knightsbridge’s exclusive urban retreat. Enjoy unrivalled views of London whilst working out in the state-of-the-art gym, unwinding with a dip in the heated indoor pool or being pampered by one of our expert spa therapists.

To find out more about our range of memberships including short-term, pool-only and under-30s, call 020 7858 7300 or visit peakhealthclub.com.

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

“The hotel is perfectly positioned within the fashionable Nine Streets quarter, with chic boutiques and charming cafes.”

The hotel itself has experienced a mass renovation, fully reopening in 2016.

Established by Peter Pulitzer, who in 1960 saw great potential in the beautiful townhouses of Amsterdam, he purchased twelve of them and began the creation of the city’s first five-star hotel - an accolade that in itself makes the Pulitzer worth visiting. Now privately owned (but not by a Pulitzer), it has grown to occupy twenty-five beautiful town houses, with renovations being directed by designer Jacu Strauss, who has retained the hotels’ understated charm and true Dutch character.

We opted for an elegant and spacious ‘Generous Room’, which was great value.

If we were blowing the budget we’d have gone for one of the four Collector Suites that have been uniquely crafted and accessorised with artefacts associated with various collectors. All rooms are well furnished, comfortable and follow a familiar theme within the rest of the hotel. Think exposed warm wooden beams, shades of blue and purple and statement yellow furniture.

Having dispensed with our four wheels, we arranged to borrow two from the hotel and took a late afternoon cycle around, window-shopping along the way. After working up an appetite, we made our way back to the hotel and as we turned the final corner, were greeted by a third frontage to the Pulitzer, the one which holds their own restaurant, Jansz.

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Support the Head Held High appeal and provide quality education to Africa's most vulnerable children #HeadHeldHigh

Donate before 23rd December 2017 and your donation will be matched by the UK Government

Discover more at www.hope-for-children.org Reg. Charity No. 1161729

HFC.indd 1

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TRAVEL • WANDERLUST

A night at The Pulitzer starts at €349 for a ‘Cosy Room’ off peak season, with peak starting at €424 pulitzeramsterdam.com

Serving beautifully crafted modern classics, you can dine on diver scallops and a rich pea purée, followed by lobster risotto served with a wafer of dried squid ink, both of which I highly recommend. Throughout dinner I found myself gazing into the distance and savouring every mouthful, or as the Dutch say; “Alsof er een engeltje over je tong piest”.

After waking from a refreshing sleep in our king-sized bed, I had a moment to take in the little details that make up our room. I notice the headboard of the bed has been shaped to echoe the iconic rooflines of Amsterdam’s townhouses and the mini porthole and timber weatherboard of the dividing

“As the evening air cooled, we drank cocktails at Pulitzer bar and watched boats chug up and down the canal.” wall are reminiscent of the houseboats that line up outside. It’s the little details that make it such a special place to stay.

A morning coffee can be freshly brewed while you wash thanks to the provision of the locally roasted Stooker coffee next to the minibar and television stand that has been specifically designed by Strauss for the renovation. The icing (or biscuit) on the cake is that complimentary Stroopwafels in the room are fully replenished, every morning.

After spending the day at two of my favourite places in Amsterdam; Artis the city’s zoo and Hortus - the botanical gardens, we returned to the hotel for a welldeserved drink at The Pause, where one can also grab some lunch or breakfast within

its courtyard. The garden that surrounds it offers a moment of peace amongst the flowers or the opportunity to swing on suspended chairs.

As the evening air cooled, we headed inside to the Pulitzer bar, where the glasses weigh more than your shoes and the leather chairs feel like you’re being engulfed in a warm hug. We sat and enjoyed the cocktail of the month - the Paloma - a pleasant grapefruit and lime mixture, and as the evening drew in, time seemed to slow a bit as we sat in a cosy low-lit corner of the bar watching the boats chug up and down the canal.

The hotel and all of its 25 buildings have been beautifully stitched together, where you can find yourself in pockets of beautiful design; from the miniature greenhouse walkways that cut through small courtyards, to treading over the impressive symmetrical marble tiles leading to the Saxenburg Galleries. The restoration harmonises what is a complicated array of buildings, creating a collection of moments that culminate in a wonderful hotel. The renovation has truly re-cemented Pulitzer’s position as the go-to place, not only within Amsterdam’s hotel scene, but also as a local establishment, where a passer-by can walk in and catch a moment of peace and luxury before heading back out into the city’s characterful and energetic cityscape.

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FREE ONE DAY TRIAL

A Unique Interactive Doggy Daycare

A doggy daycare centre in SW London offering a premium service. Daycare includes dog training and dog walking in one. With a sensory garden and living agility course the word “ dog daycare” has a whole new meaning.

• London

• Wimbledon • Raynes Park

• Southfields • Earlsfield

• Wandsworth • East Putney

Contact us now to arrange a free dog consultation. . .

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• Putney

www.dog-stroll.co.uk t: 07757 453 649 e: info@dog-stroll.co.uk

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PET PAGES Pet Notes: News & views from the animal kingdom 124 • Stylish animal accessories 135.

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ALPHABET presents...

The most flexible dog walkers London has to offer, accompanied with complete peace of mind.

No more rushing home to meet the dog walkers strict time table, at Alphabet you can enjoy our relaxed drop off approach where we tailor a time to suit you. An Alphabet walk is much more than just a dog walk, it’s a fully interactive experience where we send you beautiful imaginative in walk photos of your pups adventures, a happy dog, a happy you. We also notify you at the beginning and end of each walk with a text message.

07443 643217 alphabetdogwalking@gmail.com alphabetdogwalking.com

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B AC K AND SIDES

SHORT

DOG AND CAT GROOMING

DOG SITTING

PICK UP AND DROP OFFS

20% OFF FIRST VISIT | FANTASTIC LOYALTY PROGRAM

Wimbledon (0)20 8540 6333

Weybridge (0)1932 842000

www.poshpetparlour.co.uk

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Dog’s Dinner

Join Mayhew for a glitzy evening of wining and dining with your four-legged friend Wo r d s H E L E N B R O W N

A

nimal charity, Mayhew, will be hosting its annual dog friendly fundraiser this December and it’s bigger and better than ever. Tinsel & Tails is back on 5th December for an exclusive evening in aid of Mayhew at the Grand Connaught Rooms in Holborn. For one night only, guests are invited to join Mayhew in the venue’s iconic Grand Hall, where they will be treated to a threecourse meal, raffle, auction, and the latest updates on the charity’s vital work in the UK and overseas. Since 1886, Mayhew has and continues to be one of the most effective

animal welfare charities in London.

They help thousands of animals in need gain a better quality of life by actively working with local communities to provide veterinary care and education services. They work extensively with vulnerable pet owners including the elderly, disabled, homeless and pet owners facing a crisis, whether housing, personal or health related. Just last year Mayhew rehomed 389 cats and 94 dogs, microchipped 1,131 animals and reunited 67 lost dogs with their owners.

Mayhew’s Chief Executive, Caroline Yates, says, “Tinsel & Tails is a great event for our supporters and celebrity friends to hear about all that we have achieved this year.

Most importantly, all the money

“Not only can you come along to support Mayhew, your dog can enjoy the evening too”

ROWAN WILLIAMS

PETS • EVENTS raised during the evening will go towards Mayhew helping more dogs and cats escape a life of cruelty, neglect and abandonment in the UK and overseas.”

In store this year is a spectacular evening of entertainment provided

by BBC’s Pitch Battle contestants, The Noteables. The award-winning pop chamber choir directed by comedian, Vikki Stone, have had success composing songs for heat magazine, as well as performing at concerts and festivals across the UK. That, coupled with some truly amazing prizes up for grabs, this promises to be a very special evening. Previous years’ attendees include celebrity supporters Peter Egan, James McVey, Neil Morrissey, Bill Bailey and Helen George.

Yates says, “Every year, Mayhew’s Tinsel & Tails gets bigger and better. We are thrilled to have The Noteables performing this year and we can’t wait to have them join us to raise much needed funds. Not only can you come along to support the work of Mayhew, but your dog can come and enjoy the evening too.” A standard ticket includes reception drinks, threecourse sit-down meal with wine, entertainment and after-dinner coffee and mince pies. Or you and your furry friend can splash out with the premium ticket which includes all of the above, plus premium seating, a VIP goody bag and a Mayhew animal named after them. Whether you choose to bring your dog or not, Tinsel & Tails is the perfect opportunity for some canine companionship.

5 November, 61-65 Great Queen Street, WC2B. Tickets for Mayhew’s Tinsel & Tails can be purchased by calling 020 8206 5872 or by visiting themayhew.org/tinsel-tails.

For further information on Mayhew and to donate, please visit themayhew.org/donate

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Treat

TIME Gourmet goodies from Pet Pavilion petpavilion.co.uk

PET NOTES

News and views from the animal world B y K AT H E R I N E W I L L I A M S

Bedtime Biscuits £12.99 This recipe crafted by Michel Roux, contains Flaxseed, Camomile and Pumpkin seed for healthy treats that are both delicious and nutricious.

Pawsecco White and Rose Gift Pack £7.99 Healthy, alcohol-free herbal infusions to help include your pet in the party.

Non-carbonated, no grapes.

Happy hounds Bottom Sniffer Beer

£3.99 Providing the ultimate refreshment after a hard day or perhaps a 'hair of the dog', this non-alcoholic, Dandelion & Burdock noncarbonated doggy tipple will give your dog real ‘tail swagger’ making them leader of the pack.

D O G - ST R O L L

Unlike other doggy day care centers, Dog Stroll pride themselves in offering that little bit extra. With a secure field surrounded by countryside, Mark and his team ensure that your dog has a structured day and not simply left to their own devices. A typical day includes plenty of time in the sensory garden, agility and country walks, followed by a well-earned rest in the indoor area – leaving you with a sleepy but happy dog, like our little friend above. dog-stroll.co.uk

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FOOD • NOTES

GET PACKING WITH YOUR PET The best dog-friendly holidays

ROSEWOOD LONDON Rosewood is a hotel for dogs as well as humans. Here your furry friends can enjoy a getaway like no other with pampering by celebrity dog groomer Jamie Griffen and organic dishes cooked up by Lily's Kitchen.

252 High Holborn, WC1V rosewoodhotels.com

ANIMAL HOSPITAL

5 OF THE BEST QUIRKY ACCESSORIES FOR PETS

Scratchin decks, £19 redcandy.co.uk

2

FOUR LEGGED FRIENDS

3

Dog bandana, £3.95 dotcomgift shop.com

FAC I L I T I E S R O E H A M P TO N V E T S

Roehampton Veterinary Clinic is the leading clinic in the development of Integrative Veterinary Medicine in the UK, based on Putney Heath. Dedicated to the wellbeing of your pet, Richard and his team aim to find the most appropriate solution for each individual animal with maximum care and responsibility. A loving, warm clinic with exceptional expertise and facilities. roehamptonvets.co.uk

DOWN HALL HOTEL & SPA With over 110 acres of gardens and woodland, Down Hall is the ideal destination for exploring. Their latest venture, 'It's a Dog's Life' offers a little slice of luxury for your canine companion with a plush dog bed, walkies map, scoop bags and bonea-pet treats.

Matching Road, Essex, CM22 downhall.co.uk

FENELLA SMITH Cecil sofa, £290 fenellasmith.com

DANAI BEACH RESORT & VILLA

WIMBLEDON WALKS A L P H A B E T D O G WA L K I N G

John and Juliana run a wonderful, full-time, family-run dog walking service in and around Wimbledon. With bundles of experience and being fully insured, they both ensure that your furry friend gets the exercise, care and fun all dogs deserve. With live in-walk photos sent direct to you phone and a flexible schedule, you can be safe in the knowledge you dog is all sorted when you are at work. alphabetdogwalking.com

1

RED CANDY

This Eden-like luxury property offering a brand new set of exclusive dog friendly activities. Private catamarans are available to hire with doggy facilities, as well as an exclusive gourmet food menu, a selection of dog friendly films and walking services.

Chalkidiki, Greece danairesort.com

HOTELL 41 Hotel 41 offers your pet the full five-star treatment with a luxurious package of services and treats.

They have a Pet Concierge who will check-in your pooch with a welcome hamper, as well as custom-made pet beds that are garnished with a turndown treat each evening.

41 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 41hotel.com

EDITOR’S PICK

4

MUTTS & HOUNDS

Linen donut bed, £88.50 muttsandhounds.co.uk

MUTTS & HOUNDS Soft linen harness, £36 muttsandhounds.co.uk

5

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DOG DAYS

The powerful and emotive images from award-winning photographer Gandee Vasan speak a thousand words; here are a few of our favourites...

G a n d e e Va s a n gandeevasan.com

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GANDEE VASAN

WWW.GANDEEVASAN.COM 07985285108 Gandee Vasan is available for commissions

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London’s dog friendly, black tie fundraiser TS

KE TIC

LE A S N

O

NOW

5 T H D E CEM BE R 201 7 , 7P M Dress code: Black Tie The Grand Connaught Rooms, London WC2B 5DA For tickets and info visit www.themayhew.org/tinsel-tails or email events@mayhewanimalhome.org Registered Charity No 1077588

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ABSOLUTELY • PROMOTION

“We have an allin-one approach meaning that your pet’s treatment plan is carried out from start-tofinish in-house”

medicine which works alongside traditional medicine.

COMPASSIONATE PET CARE

R

oehampton Veterinary Clinic offer an exceptional and compassionate approach to the care of small animals. Founded in 2000, the skilled team have, and continue to be one of the leading clinics in south west London, offering a range of services and treatments. We caught up with co-director Denise Bleckman to find out more about the incredible work they carry out each day.

ABSOLUTELY: Tell us a bit about Roehampton Veterinary Clinic?

DENISE BLECKMAN: We are an independent veterinary clinic, founded and co-directed by my husband, Richard, and myself. Richard is a renowned veterinary surgeon and has been practicing in South West London for over 30 years. We are positioned in a beautiful spot overlooking Putney Heath, not far from Wimbledon and Richmond Park.

A: Tell us about the sort of work you carry out at the clinic?

DB: Along with preventive and

comprehensive health care, we offer a range of services from advanced imaging and diagnostics to emergency medicine, laparoscopy and specialised surgery. We integrate this with complimentary and chinese medicine to ensure a quick and wellrounded recovery.

A: What do you do that’s different to other veterinary clinics?

DB: We have an all-in-one approach meaning that your pet’s treatment plan is carried out from start-to-finish in-house by us. We have our own laboratory and operating theatre, and are able to carry out in-house imaging. This cuts out the toing-and-frowing from one referall to the next, resulting in a speedier diagnostic and recovery. In addition to this, we are known for our laproscopic surgery, a less-invasive practise of neutering with a quick recovery time. We mostly see pets bounce back the day after surgery. Alongside this, we pride ourselves in making great diagnostics, solving problems, orthepic and soft tissue surgery. Paul additionally specialises in dermatology and Richard in integretative

A: What’s the Roehampton team like?

DB: We have a highly qualified team and our vets have at least 10 years of experience each. Richard is renowned in the industry with 40 years of experience as a referral veterinary surgeon. He’s been a practicing Buddhist for over 40 years which feeds into his care for each animal. He holds diplomas in Eastern and Western herbal medicine, acupuncture, Chinese medicine and Tibetan medicine and his diagnostic and surgical skills are highly comprehensive.

Paul Aggarwal joined our team in 2012. He has 10 years of experience as a veterinary surgeon and holds an Advanced Small Animal Diploma and an Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Dermatology. Paul offers excellent care for all animals who are sick, injured, or simply in need of their regular check - ups, as well as support for animals requiring management of long - term illnesses.

A: What’s next for Roehampton Veterinary Clinic?

DB: Compassionate care is at the core of what we do and will remain our focus. From highly complicated, near-inoperable surgery to routine check-ups and providing loving care for our inpatients, we always do our best. Our staff will continue to learn new skills while carrying out the precise and attentive care they do now. Last but not least, we’ll continue to offer high quality services with experienced staff.

ROEHAMPTON VETERINARY CLINIC 1 Treville Street, Putney Heath, SW15 4JX 020 8789 4000 roehamptonvets.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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Th e S u b s c r i pt i o n FO R ST Y L I S H M U M S Sign up to Readly for only £7.99 a month and read all back issues of Absolutely Mama, as well as our entire portfolio, including Absolutely Home, Absolutely Education and Absolutely Weddings.

Readly offers the freedom to effortlessly glide between articles and features that consider every key parental moment from pregnancy through to a child’s early years.

Subscribe at gb.readly.com and search Absolutely Mama

Follow Us On

@ABSOLUTELYMAMA

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PETS • PRODUCTS SOPHIE ALLPORT Woof dog toy, £9 sophieallport.com

RUFF AND TUMBLE Dog drying coats, £26 ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

MUNGO & MAUD Cotton rope tug toy, £12.95 mungoandmaud.com

EDITOR’S PICK

STYLE TAILS Deluxe doggy grooming bag, £35 store.styletails.com

FLYING TIGER Pet towel, £6 uk.flyingtiger.com

BOCO AUSTRALIA Leather dog lead, £40.30 boco.com.au

DOBBIES Large dog bowl, £17.99 dobbies.com

A DOG’S LIFE

ALESSI Tigrito cat bowl, £53 selfridges.com

All the best accessories for pets B y H E L E N B R OW N

BOCO AUSTRALIA

MUTTS & HOUNDS Soft tweed harness, £37 muttsandhounds.co.uk

CHARLEY CHAU

Leather dog lead, £40.30 boco.com.au

Raised wooden dog bed, £280 charleychau.com

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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MADE IN GERMANY TO MEET YOUR DESIGN NEEDS Built in Kitchen Specialist

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Kitchen Revolutions Ltd 580 Kingston Road, Wimbledon SW20 8DR T 020 3302 6266 E info@kitchenrevolutions.co.uk W www.kitchenrevolutions.co.uk WE ARE OPEN Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm | Sun 11am - 4pm

06/03/2017 15:15

LIVING THE DREAM p.144 NIGEL LEWIS: LONDON'S FINEST p.150 NIGEL LEWIS: THE PRIME MARKET p.154

LOMBARD WHARF SW11

£4,900,000

his luxury 3 bedroom penthouse apartment in Battersea, SW11 has a 360 degree wraparound terrace on the 26th floor of this impressive building. The kitchen and opulent living area feature views from every corner of London. The three bedrooms offer a wealth of space, views and lavish sleeping areas. Natural light and space are in an abundance.

T

Featherstone Leigh Battersea 020 7228 2278 featherstoneleigh.co.uk

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Altissima House, Vista, Battersea Park SW11 Superb sixth floor park facing flat A two bedroom flat in a new luxury development by Chelsea Bridge, perfectly located next to Battersea Park, Battersea Power Station and close to King's Road Chelsea. Master bedroom with en suite, second bedroom, bathroom, kitchen/reception/dining room, 2 balconies. EPC: B. Approximately 87 sq m (936 sq ft).

Leasehold approximately 998 years remaining

Guide price: £1,750,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/battersea battersea@knightfrank.com 020 8033 9673

@KF_SWLondon KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/BAT170103

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Absolutely November Issue 2017

25/10/2017 19:10

17/10/2017 13:23:45

Ridgway Gardens, Wimbledon SW19 Substantial detached 6 bedroom house in Wimbledon Village Beautifully bright, detached house with a lovely south westerly garden in a pleasant cul de sac. Elegant rooms with excellent ceiling heights and many period features retained. Comprising 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, garden and private parking.

EPC: E. Approximately 423.1 sq. m (4,554 sq. ft)

Freehold

Guide price: £4,250,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/wimbledon wimbledon@knightfrank.com 020 8946 0026

@KF_SWLondon KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/WMB120076

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Wimbledon sales - Absolutely - November 17

25/10/2017 19:18

18/10/2017 15:25:35

Over the 11th & 12th October four agents from Knight Frank ran the length of the Thames: • 7 marathons back to back • 7 counties • 184 miles

The Thames Stone, The Source

Windsor Castle

Well done to the runners & all involved

GILES BARRETT Partner Knight Frank Riverside

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GUY SPENCER Associate Knight Frank Hyde Park

ELIZABETH WAKEFIELD Office Manager Knight Frank Riverside

LEE O’NEILL Office Head Knight Frank Wapping

25/10/2017 19:13

A huge thank you to the businesses below for their significent & generous donations towards our target of ÂŁ18,400

Hampton Court Palace

Thames Barrier

Battersea Power Station

Knight Frank’s Day of Giving is in aid of:

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

a KNIGHT FRANK fa m i ly a f fa i r "We wanted to thank all of the local businesses and residents".

S

howcasing local businesses, the popular Bellevue Road Summer Fair returned for its sixth year and Knight Frank were proud to be the principle sponsors once more. The festive event included all the best the area had to offer. Visitors enjoyed some tunes by local musicians while taking a bite out of a delicious array of food and drink. Over 40 stalls showcased their incredible talent, allowing for an extensive shopping experience. The variety of goods included everything from homewares to jewelry and fashion.

Held opposite Wandsworth Common, the event is perfect for every member of the family. Cocktails were shaken and stirred, perfect for the adults looking to enjoy a chilled beverege under the sun.

The amount of activites for little ones was delightful. They got to have exciting experiences such as encountering feathered friends and playing Picasso with some arts and crafts.

The furry members of the family also had their time to shine. A fantastic dog show took place with exciting categories such as 'waggiest tail' and even 'best sausage catcher'. Definitely a must see.

With games and food galore, it was a funfilled day spent surrounded by lovely people from the local area. The summer tradition will continue to grow and flourish each year.

“We will look to improve again next year and are in consultation with the council regarding, making it bigger and better!”

142

We wanted to thank all of the local businesses and residents for supporting the Bellevue Road summer fair again this year. Despite a little splatter of rain at times, there were big smiles all around and it seems it was a great success.

We will look to improve again next year and are in consultation with the council regarding, making it bigger and better! We reply on the support of local business to make it happen but also the local residents and special mention has to go out to Kumar Varma for all his help in gaining donations for the event, Olivier from Olivier’s Lounge and the Think Events Team.

"Thank you all for making it such a special day. See you all again next year!"

SAM SPROSTON, OFFICE HEAD To follow what Sam and his team are doing on Instagram please follow: swagent.ss KNIGHT FRANK 020 8682 7777 knightfrankco.uk/Wandsworth

FAIR ATTENDEES WITH EX WANDSWORTH MAYOR RICHARD FIELD

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LIVING THE

DREAM The most luxuriously appointed properties on the market

1

LAVENHAM ROAD SW 1 8 , ÂŁ1 ,200,00 0

A

beautiful Edwardian house retaining many original features with a modern architecturally designed 'smart glass' extension on the ground floor. The property boasts an open floorpan with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a bespoke kitchen. This immaculately presented house is located within close proximity to Wimbledon Park and Southfields Tube Stations.

KFH Southfields, 020 3792 4539 kfh.co.uk

EARLSFIELD ROAD SW 1 8 , ÂŁ5,0 0 0,000

E

xceptional and unique, this six bedroom house offers excellent lateral space and unusually high ceilings, a 90ft garden and parking close to Wandsworth Common. The property opens into a deep wide entrance hall with a superb galleried staircase.

Off the hallway is an elegant bay fronted drawing room with intricate ceiling plaster work, an attractive fireplace and bespoke cabinetry.

KNIGHT FRANK Wandsworth, 020 8682 7777 knightfrank.co.uk 1

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A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET

COPSE HILL

W I M B L E D O N , £ 5 ,9 5 0,0 0 0

G COOMBE HILL ROAD

BATTERSEA BRIDGE ROAD SW 1 1 , £ 1 ,75 0,0 0 0

A

rade II listed, this Victorian family home has been fully renovated throughout and comprises seven bedrooms, five reception rooms as well as a large garden to the rear. The entrance hall features marble tiled flooring and an elegant staircase. The first floor has the master ensuite with a dressing room.

rchitecturally designed, this apartment offers copious amounts of light and space. The property allows for a wonderful balance of modern interior with subtle period features. With a beautiful living space on the upper floor with a terrace, it offers a wonderful entertaining area complete with stunning views.

SAVILLS

CHESTERTONS

Wimbledon, 020 8971 8111 savills.co.uk

Battersea, 020 3040 8700 chestertons.com

K T 2 , £4 , 3 9 5 ,0 0 0

N

ewly constructed, this handsome house of exceptional quality is located on this sought after private road.

The property combines classic design with the best of modern technology including a cinema, gym with steam room and wine room. The ceiling heights and large windows enhance the sense of volume and underfloor heating is present throughout.

A WONDERFUL BALANCE OF MODERN INTERIOR WITH SUBTLE PERIOD FEATURES

KNIGHT FRANK

Wimbledon, 020 8946 0026 knightfrank.co.uk

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PROPERTY • NEW TO THE MARKET

COPSE HILL

W I M B L E D O N , £ 5 ,9 5 0,0 0 0

G COOMBE HILL ROAD

BATTERSEA BRIDGE ROAD SW 1 1 , £ 1 ,75 0,0 0 0

A

rade II listed, this Victorian family home has been fully renovated throughout and comprises seven bedrooms, five reception rooms as well as a large garden to the rear. The entrance hall features marble tiled flooring and an elegant staircase. The first floor has the master ensuite with a dressing room.

rchitecturally designed, this apartment offers copious amounts of light and space. The property allows for a wonderful balance of modern interior with subtle period features. With a beautiful living space on the upper floor with a terrace, it offers a wonderful entertaining area complete with stunning views.

SAVILLS

CHESTERTONS

Wimbledon, 020 8971 8111 savills.co.uk

Battersea, 020 3040 8700 chestertons.com

K T 2 , £4 , 3 9 5 ,0 0 0

N

ewly constructed, this handsome house of exceptional quality is located on this sought after private road.

The property combines classic design with the best of modern technology including a cinema, gym with steam room and wine room. The ceiling heights and large windows enhance the sense of volume and underfloor heating is present throughout.

A WONDERFUL BALANCE OF MODERN INTERIOR WITH SUBTLE PERIOD FEATURES

KNIGHT FRANK

Wimbledon, 020 8946 0026 knightfrank.co.uk

A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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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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Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 £950,000 West Putney 020 8785 2122 westputney.sales@kfh.co.uk

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Currently laid out as two bedrooms with a master suite with a dressing room. The spacious apartment offers 1,239 sq ft of flexible accommodation, parking and access to a shared garden.

This beautifully presented conversion flat has a private entrance, parking plus a garage, and a large reception room with a separate kitchen. Putney High Street is only a short walk away.

• • • • • • • • •

1,239 sq ft Two / three bedrooms Dressing room and en suite Off street parking Two bathrooms Communal garden Private entrance Garage EPC rating C

25/10/2017 15:11 19:00 17/10/2017

Comyn Road, London SW11 £2,275 pcm

A stunning and newly refurbished two double bedroom period conversion.

Located minutes from Clapham Junction, with an impressive open plan kitchen area with bi folding doors leading to the garden.

• • • • • •

Solid wooden flooring throughout Spacious open plan reception Newly refurbished Large private garden Cellar with utility area EPC rating D

Battersea 020 7228 8688 battersea.lettings@kfh.co.uk £210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

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25/10/2017 12:16 19:00 17/10/2017

Christchurch Road, Colliers Wood SW19 £1,350 - £1,650 pcm Tooting 020 8767 2666 tooting.lettings@kfh.co.uk

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A brand new development of well appointed one and two bedroom flats.

Each individual apartment offers an open plan living room with bespoke fitted kitchen and wooden flooring. Inbuilt storage in all bedrooms, contemporary three piece shower room, floor to ceiling windows offering ample natural light and fantastic sound insulation throughout.

These apartments are located opposite Colliers Wood tube and an array of bars and restaurants.

• • • • • • • •

Inbuilt storage Spacious open plan living areas Kitchens with integrated appliances Floor to ceiling windows Sound absorbing insulations Three piece shower rooms Colliers Wood Tube and amenities Bike Storage

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

25/10/2017 12:16 19:01 17/10/2017

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CURZON STREET £ 1 1 .9 5 M I L L I O N

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LONDON'S FINEST The Capital’s Premium Locations

L

ondon’s quiet and highly valuable central prime streets have endured a rollercoaster ride over the past 12 month as various economic and political headwinds have dampened enthusiasm for their multi-million-pound properties.

But the UK’s capital remains an incredible place to buy a home. A square foot of property in historic and desirable neighbourhoods such as South Kensington, Notting Hill, Belgravia, Mayfair and Holland Park costs over £2,000 while values in other areas nearby such as Earls Court and Chelsea aren’t far behind. In the most expensive areas this means a medium-size 1,600 sq ft or 148 sq metre Victorian or Georgian house will cost £3.7 million.

And according to data firm LonRes property worth £3.6 billion is set to be sold in the three key prime areas of central London this year, despite Brexit and higher property taxes.

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~

M AY FA I R

Within them, 47% of all properties are sold for £2 million more although the average price per property sold is £1.72 million, this ranges from a £57 million Regency house in The Boltons to £350,000 for a small studio apartment in Bloomsbury.

But what really makes London famous around the world are its super-prime properties. Here we highlight some of the most notable ones currently for sale for £10 million or more – and sometimes… a lot more.

“a square foot of property in historic and desirable neighborhoods...cost over £2,000”

duplex penthouse at 37 Curzon Street in Mayfair built above the famous cinema that bears the street’s name. The 3,469 sq ft property has four bedrooms and offers views from its wrap-around terrace over the local area as well as the House of Parliament, London Eye and Shard.

The property was also formerly the home of 1960s pop star Dave Clarke while the cinema below itself is the stuff of Mayfair legend, hosting Royalty, Hollywood stars and celebrities for private screenings.

When King George VI, Queen Elizabeth and the two princesses paid their first visit, two Royal Boxes were installed to mark the occasion. More recently, it’s hosted numerous red carpet premiers, including Dallas Buyers Club with Matthew McConnaughey and Jared Leto.

The penthouse’s current owners have given the home a stylish makeover. Its large marble floored reception space has 360-degree views across the capital, there’s a private terrace along one side, along with study and gym, underfloor heating and underground parking. More information from Savills on +44 (0) 20 7578 5100 or www.savills.com

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THE BISHOP ’S AVENUE £22 MILLION

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H A M P ST E A D

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or those who want period looks, a modern interior and an address on possibly the world’s most famous road then local agent Glentree has this seven-bedroom house on The Bishop’s Avenue, better known as Billionaire’s Row. It’s a new-build mansion with a lift to whisk you up and down it’s four storeys plus two dressing rooms, two kitchens, five reception rooms, jacuzzi, swimming pool and spa and a wine cellar. Outside there are landscaped gardens and the ultimate petrol head’s playing, a car lift down to the garage.

For more information, Glentree.co.uk or +44 (0) 20 8458 7311.

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

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CROWN ESTATE

HARRINGTON ROAD

R E G E N T ’S PA R K

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K E N S I N GTO N

It’s not that often that refurbished terraced house come up for sale on the Crown Estate roads surrounding Regent’s Park, but when they do prices are high – these properties have high ceilings and handsome stucco’d frontages which are as highly prized, as is their address.

This seven-bedroom example on Hanover terrace is one of the largest houses in what is generally acknowledged as the finest of the Nash terraces. Benefits include the unique feature of a lift (requires reinstatement) and the rare advantage of an additional floor which provides further panoramic views over the park. Currently for sale with Knight Frank, +44 (0) 20 7586 2777.

This recently-refurbished three-bedroom penthouse apartment on Harrington Road near South Kensington tube station comes with a terrace wrapped around its sides to offer 360-degree views of the area. The property used to belong to Notting Hill actor Hugh Grant. The stunning penthouse, which occupies the entire top of Petersham House, also has a master dressing room, walk-in shower, double-height ceilings, dual-aspect lounge, direct entry lift, a gym and plenty of gadgets. It’s been refurbished since Grant lived there in 2002-2003, during the success of About a Boy. Carter Jonas +44 (0) 20 7590 4690 or www.carterjonas.co.uk

£ 1 9. 5 M I L L I O N

£10 MILLION

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LOMBARD WHARF, BATTERSEA a stunning penthouse with 360° views of Central London, River Thames, South & West London from its breathtaking wraparound terrace (1112.49 sq ft/103.35 sq m). The kitchen and opulent living area feature views from every corner of London. EPC = TBC.

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ASKING PRICE

£4,900,000 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278

DOROTHY ROAD, BATTERSEA Wonderfully presented ground floor garden flat positioned in central Battersea only minutes’ walk from Clapham Junction Station. The property further benfits from a large west facing garden and further potential STPP. EPC = TBC.

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ASKING PRICE

£699,950 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2278

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Battersea Clapham Putney Barnes Richmond

Chiswick Hammersmith West Kensington Fulham Chelsea

Kew Sheen Twickenham Teddington Kingston

featherstoneleigh.co.uk

GRAYSHOTT ROAD, BATTERSEA Stunning and spacious flat situated in the ever popular “Shaftesbury conservation area”. A larger than average southwest facing landscaped rear garden. The property further benefits from an alarm system.

Available end of September. EPC = C.

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TO LET PCM

£1,700 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2378

LURLINE GARDENS, BATTERSEA Light and spacious flat moments from Battersea Park and the transport links of both Queenstown Road and Battersea park stations. The property is well presented throughout and is available immediately on a furnished basis. EPC = D.

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TO LET PCM

£1,750 BATTERSEA 020 7228 2378

TENANT FEES

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£60.00 (incl VAT) per person for referencing

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£250.00 (incl VAT) per property for the tenancy agreement.

25/10/2017 18:52

The Prime Market London’s prime market has always been the wonder of the property world and usually for good reasons

by N I G E L L E W I S

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igh UK and overseas demand for London’s central prime districts has powered extraordinary property price and rental growth since the financial crisis of late 2008 and early 2009. For example, during 2007 before the banking problems began, house prices in prime central London were rising by 28% a year, according to agent Knight Frank.

By 2010 prices began to rise again, settling down to between 7% and 10% a year by 2013. But over the past 18 months the 2016 UK Referendum Vote, the looming spectre of Brexit plus a basket of other factors have conspired to significantly cool London’s prime central property markets. Increased Stamp Duty for properties bought for over £1.5 million, additional Stamp Duties rates for second homes and buy-to-let properties and reduced tax incentives for buy-to-let landlords and investors have all made it more expensive to buy

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and invest in London property. “Out of all these factors I think it has been the buyto-let changes which have had the biggest difference to the prime property market,” says Chris Lloyd of private finance firm Enness. Prices in Prime London have dropped by between 10% and 15% some agents say, while in some pockets price reductions have reached 40%, according to agent Barnes Private Office. “While prices are higher in 2017 than 10 years ago, liquidity is significantly lower once again and prices have fallen,” says its Managing Director Alex Newall. “The market this time has been directly affected by higher stamp duty and the bottle neck which has been placed on the market around the £1.5m level.” Agent Jake Russell of Russell Simpson says the extra Stamp Duty was designed to cool the previously over-heated property market in central London but also increase government tax revenues. But as Jake points out, although it has achieved its first aim, transactions have sunk to such a low point that the government is seeing its tax receipts reduce, somewhat defeating the purpose of the Stamp Duty increases. “Near £300 million was

collected in SDLT across prime London during the first six months of 2014, whilst that figure is down by 4.9%, for the year to date, at approximately £267 million,” he says. But agent Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) says in a report shown exclusively to this magazine that London’s prime central sales market is showing signs of returning to normal. It says the number of homes being sold has increased this year when compared to 2016 and that prices at the lower end of the prime market have held firm, although prices for homes worth £5 million or more – Stamp Duty bills for which can be double those charged since the rates were changed – are still more “sensitive”. “We expect the sales market to continue its acclimatisation during the remainder of this year and to be on a firmer footing by the start of 2018,” the JLL report says.

But although Alex Newall says the super-prime £10m market is still experiencing problems, “lower prices mean good news for the savvy investor, who will go against the flock,” he says. “We are seeing generational investors return to the markets deal hunting - the landed gentry

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

who have been priced out by wealthy private clients from the Middle East and Russia, are making a comeback in areas like Chelsea and Belgravia. “This is their time to buy at more affordable prices for the long term. Hong Kong buyers with links to the UK through education or family are also investing.” But some buyers and investors are taking a different route – to finance their property purchases and investments in a way which reduces their exposure to risk. “We’re doing a lot of interest-only mortgages at the moment because for many of our clients there’s no point paying cash for a property when they can make that money work harder in investments and then get a mortgage at an interest rate of a few percent,” says

“THE STRONGEST ACTIVITY AT THE MOMENT IS FROM BETWEEN £500,000 TO £1M AND THE LESSER EXTENT UP TO £3 MILLION”

Chris Lloyd. “The strongest activity at the moment is from between £500,000 to £1 million and to a lesser extent up to £3 million at the moment.” But one unintended consequence of the Stamp Duty increases and the other financial burdens on buyers has been to boost the lettings market. “One of the major positives we’ve seen in the market in 2017 is the incredible surge in the lettings side of our business,” says Jake Russell. Jones Lang LaSalle agrees, to a degree, its report states that while activity has picked up in the lettings market during the first six months of the year, rental values continue to see too many properties fight for too few tenants, but it’s a position the company believes will have corrected itself by the end of 2017.

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25/10/2017 10:09 19:06 02/04/2014

FA M O U S P L AC E S

by N I G E L L E W I S

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

PRICE OF INDEPENDENCE

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PATRICK GIVES HIS HOME THE BOOT

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erhaps the best known and most successful shoe designers in the UK is Patrick Cox. Starting in the mid-1980s, when he came from Canada to study in London and made friends with Vivienne Westwood, he has built up an incredible army of die-hard footwear fans. These include wealthy fashionistas, celebrity friends such

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as Elton John, Elizabeth Hurley and Madonna, and high street shoppers.

Since 2002 he’s lived in a fourbedroom Victorian villa in Little Venice, which he redesigned as a ‘party house’. The only original feature in the property is its staircase – the property was otherwise gutted and rebuilt inside.

He’s just sold the property via local agent Aston Chase for £2.75 and, he says, will “really miss the house and Little Venice, but I am looking forward to taking on another ‘Grand Designs’ style project in Ibiza”.

f you think the films of Germanborn Hollywood film director Roland Emmerich are dramatic, then you should see his house.

The 61-year-old has several bigbudget hits under his belt including last year’s Independence Day: Resurgence, Godzilla, The Day After Tomorrow and The Patriot starring Mel Gibson.

But his home in Knightsbridge in central London is even more over the top than any of his blockbuster productions.

The unusual property, which is one of four he owns around the world, is available for short-term rent and includes the director’s zany art collection and furniture.

Each room is a like a film set. The main lounge features a huge mural of Chairman Mao, as does one of the bathrooms, while another is dominated by a stuffed zebra, a third lounge is panelled from floor to ceiling in wood and Emmerich’s study walls are covered with schoolroom chalk board.

The property’s most unusual feature is its under-stair cupboard, which houses a full-size waxwork of the Pope, smiling eerily from inside.

His house, which overlooks the leafy Brompton Square in Knightsbridge next door to the Victoria & Albert Museum, has five bedrooms and fivebathrooms.

The home is available to rent at an eyewatering £34,666 a month via KFH (020 3792 5523).

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HOME TO A DANCING QUEEN

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allet Rambert is London’s most famous and oldest dance company, founded in 1926 by Dame Marie ‘Mini’ Rambert.

The Rambert Dance Company – as it used to be known – became a household name during the early days of TV for its performances on the BBC and has worked with some of the world’s greatest dancers. The studio where Rambert founded the dance company and where she used to teach, is on the market.

The Georgian Grade II listed maisonette is where she opened her fledgling school of dance in Bedford Gardens, Kensington. Ballet Rambert’s former home is now the vast combined open-plan lounge, dining room and kitchen, which also has three double bedrooms and a study.

Available from Marsh & Parsons Kensington (0207368 4450) for £4.9m.

"His home in Knightsbridge is even more over the top that any of his blockbuster productions."

FAMOUS 60S PARTY HOUSE

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uring the 1960s this flat saw visits from some of the world’s most famous people including Charlie Chaplin, photographers Cecil Beaton and Lord Snowdon, actors Lawrence Olivier, Omar Sharif and Elizabeth Taylor, and Princess Margaret.

The property belonged to Sri Lankan Sharmini Tiruchelvam who, although little-known now, was at the time one of the world’s most beautiful women. “One day when I was staying with family friends in the south of France, I was at the beach. I was wearing pedal pushers and my hair was in a ponytail. Picasso saw me and asked me to go back with him so he could do a sketch,” she says.

Her former home is now for sale.

It’s a Grade II listed ground floor apartment on Sussex Gardens.

The vendor, Lorna Notoras, has restored the property to its former splendour and is now selling it via Harrods Estates (020 7409 9001) for £2.35 million.

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

M A P L E TO N CRESCENT SW 1 8

Modern Living With Unrivalled Views of London’s Skyline

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apleton Crescent SW18, an awardwinning development

by Pocket Living in central Wandsworth, is a beautiful slender building with a striking green pleated-terracotta façade overlooking the River Wandle.

Arranged around a unique triangular core, the 36 competitively priced two and three bedroom homes each feature a balcony or winter garden with striking views across London in all three directions. The spacious landscaped roof terrace on the 23rd floor, for all residents to enjoy, has an uninterrupted backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline, from Wembley Stadium in the West to the Shard and Canary Wharf in the East.

Mapleton Crescent SW18 is uniquely designed for flexible, spacious and modern city living. Each apartment features bespoke

joinery, incorporating study nooks, master bedroom dressing areas and cleverly designed shelving for ample storage and flexibility. With many of the homes reserved for local people to own (not let out) and only three apartments per floor, the development will have a strong neighbourhood feel.

Residents can enjoy access to beautifully designed shared spaces such as the resident’s lounge on the first floor which can be used for

"The spacious landscaped roof terrace on the 23rd floor has an uninterrupted backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline"

flexible co-working, as well as the spacious roof terrace. In addition, the building caters to cyclists with secure bike storage, kit lockers and a maintenance station.

Wandsworth town centre is undergoing major transformation, its range of new amenities and excellent transport links are attracting young Londoners to the area.

Mapleton Crescent SW18 is in the heart of Wandsworth, with everything you need right on the doorstep and the city centre within easy reach.

Two and three bedroom apartments start from £685,000. Prospective buyers can book an appointment to visit the newly launched marketing suite for an exclusive virtual reality apartment viewing by e-mailing mapleton@savills. com, registering their interest via mapletoncrescentsw18.com or calling 020 7637 2436. The scheme will be ready to move into in Summer 2018.

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PROPERTY • FEATURE

A WELCOME CITY ESCAPE Enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of city life

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new selection of forever homes inspired by traditional arts and crafts architecture from award-winning Redrow Homes, are now available in the popular village of Bisley, Surrey.

The high quality detached four and five-bedroom properties at Kings Hundred are situated four miles from Woking and only 35 minutes from London by train, making it an ideal location for people looking to set up home to commute to the capital, or escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The very name recalls the village’s heritage as a centre for rifle shooting. It hosted a famous marksmanship competition in which exactly 100 contestants – the King’s Hundred – would vie for the chance to win the King’s Silver Medal.

Kings Hundred is surrounded by open spaces and greenery with plenty of facilities within easy reach.

There is a range of supermarkets within walking distance, a GP surgery, a dentist and a variety of restaurants and pubs, as well as high-end eateries.

An impressive number of primary and secondary schools sit within the surrounding area, including Gordon’s School, one of Britain’s most academically successful state schools. Residents will be spoiled for choice at the array of leisure activities, including theatres, a golf club, plenty of sporting venues and a cinema just a short drive away.

Located near Brookwood Station, Kings Hundred offers close links to London and neighbouring cities.

Regular rush hour services run daily from the station, with a trip to London Waterloo taking only 35 minutes. Situated on the A322,

between the M3 and Guildford, Kings Hundred will allow residents easy access by car to Reading, Farnborough and Heathrow.

Mark Vanson, Sales and Marketing Director at Redrow Homes (Southern Counties), said: “Kings Hundred will allow people to enjoy the best of the beautiful Surrey countryside together with all the benefits of close transport links to London. It’s an ideal commuter spot for those working in the capital, or wanting to move out of London and get more for their money.

“With the first of our two new show homes now open, I’d encourage anyone interested in the development to come and have a look around to get a real feel for what life will be like here.”

Sarah Smithers and her partner Matthew Wilson recently moved to Kings Hundred. She said of the development: “In addition to the wonderful location, one thing that immediately drew us to Kings Hundred was the different house types. The homes are all individual and it brings a real sense of life to the area.

“It’s close to the shops, has great transport links and, most importantly, plenty of great walking areas for us and our puppy Lincoln.

Our new home really ticks all the boxes and we have been absolutely thrilled by the service we received from Redrow from the outset.”

Prices at Kings Hundred start at £714,950.

To find out more about living at Kings Hundred, call 01483 667105 or go online: redrow.co.uk/kingshundred

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New 5 bedroom Redrow show homes opening in Surrey New Sales Centre and the first of our two impressive show homes launching this month.

Come and view the stunning 5 bedroom Marlborough.

Book your appointment today and talk to us about the exclusive pre launch incentives available.

Prices from ÂŁ714,950 Images are indicative only. Details correct at time of going to press.

Kings Hundred – Queens Road, Bisley, Surrey GU24 9BJ. Open daily, 10am - 5.30pm Call: 01483 667212

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Visit: redrow.co.uk/kingshundred

25/10/2017 19:07

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