Absolutely South East August 2019

SOUTH EAST

South East AUGUST 2019 / £3.95

MODERN

INTERIORS SPECIAL

LOVE

40 pages filled with ideas for the home

AUGU ST 2019

Roksanda Ilincic's beautiful apartment

Poolside

STYLE The best in ecofriendly swimwear

Society

CHIC L AV I S H L O O K S F O R S U M M E R

ZEST.LONDON SE_Aug19_Cover.indd All Pages

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT 24/07/2019 10:29

We’ll just put the television in the bedroom

PRIME LOCATION.indd 1

19/11/2018 16:48

The heart wants what the heart wants.

Discover rural homes with sea views using keyword search.

PRIME LOCATION.indd 2

19/11/2018 16:49

BC.indd 1 1540_boconcept_absolutely-dps_RC_05-19.indd 3-4

23/05/2019 10:00

BC.indd 2

23/05/2019 09:54 10:00 21/05/2019

© Copyright & Design Right Charles Yorke Ltd

CY.indd 1

25/07/2019 10:25

HANDCRAFTED IN ENGLAND

KITCHENS & LIVING SPACES For further information contact:

Handleless Lyon Kitchen

CY.indd 2

The Shop on the Green, Pirbright, GU24 0JT 01483 480 111 www.charlesyorke.com

25/07/2019 10:25

BO.indd 1

23/05/2019 10:11

ABSOLUTELY

Contents AUGUST 2019

120

44

C U LT U R E

12 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

61 BEAUTY CONFIDENTIAL

16 AGENDA

63 HEAVEN SCENT

10 things we’re coveting this month

Diary dates for August

18 DEEP DIVE

Outdoor swimming in London

This month's best beauty buys

The best in new summer fragrance

HOME 76 A DATE WITH DESIGN

FOOD & DRINK 26 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

32 RECIPES

92 KING OF THE CASTLE

Liberty in the spotlight

News from the industry

Simple Japanese home cooking

Design events for your diary

84 FASHION HOUSE

Stylish interiors from Roksanda Ilincic

FA S H I O N 44 HOT TROPICS

T R AV E L 116 ADVENTURE QUEST

53 PEARLY QUEENS

K I D S & E D U C AT I O N

129 SMALL TALK

Chic swimwear from Poolside Gossip

Timeless pearls get a modern update

25

Family fun in the Forest of Dean

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.

ON THE COVER LOEFFLER RANDALL loefflerrandall.com

All your tots could ever want

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

SE_Aug19_Contents.indd 9

9

24/07/2019 11:00

EDITOR IN CHIEF PENDLE HARTE DIGITAL EDITOR HELEN BROWN EDITORIAL INTERN ANNABEL FULLER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT FLORA THOMAS GROUP SALES DIRECTOR CRAIG DAVIES EDUCATION SPECIALIST ANDY MABBITT ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MARKETING MANAGER LUCIE PEARCE FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS JAMES FUSCHILLO LEAH DAY NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER

TITMAN DESIGN

MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

Titman Studios, Architecture & Design

PA TO DIRECTORS EVA LEHOCZKY

Architectural award winner, Mark Titman, designs contemporary extensions for traditional buildings. His minimalist use of glass allows older houses to retain their character where an extension or refurbishment are needed. This has helped his clients to gain planning permission in Conservation areas and on Listed Buildings. His realistic computer graphics help both clients and planners to appreciate great design.

Mark has been a senior lecturer in design for 20 years, published internationally and won international design awards. Titman Design offers families the chance to gather in a larger kitchen/dining area. Now is the time to start planning that new space. By summertime next year you could have a new larger family space for great social gatherings and cool garden parties.

With 100% success rate with planners - we specialise in getting permission around Greenwich and S.E. London. Call to arrange for a free consultation.

For editorial enquiries please email: pendle@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 020 3397 8706 or email: craig@zest-media.com

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

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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

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

mstitman@globalnet.co.uk 07771 907011 marktitman.com

MT_V1.indd 1 Aug19_Flannel.indd 8

24/07/2019 16:23 26/07/2019 14:12

5 LETTER Editor’s ABSOLUTELY’S August issue highlights

1

SMELLS LIKE HOME

Summer fragrances for the home. page 97

DESIGNJUNCTION

Previewing the fair as it returns to King's Cross page 82

FASHION HOUSE

Roksanda Ilincic's foray into interior design page 94

T

his month we're looking at our houses. Admittedly we look at our houses every month – always noting ways in which they could be improved – but this month we're dedicating even more space than usual to interiors. A scaled-down edition of Absolutely's Home magazine is appearing as a beautiful 40-page section inside this issue, and it includes a vast diversity of inspirational ideas for all of our homes. As well as admiring fashion designer Roksanda Ilincic's beautiful and conceptual interior design for a residential development in King's Cross, we look at an untouched bohemian interior by Liberty in a castle in Sweden, a refurbished Victorian townhouse in Margate and a contemporary kitchen in south London. We're previewing next month's designjunction fair and focusing on new designs, trends and colours too. And in the rest of the issue, we are looking at stylish swimwear for the holiday season, testing some new Japanese recipes, celebrating Tatty Devine's two decades of jewellery and sampling a selection of the capital's finest beauty treatments.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

PENDLE HARTE EDITOR

2

4

TATTY DEVINE

Celebrating 20 years of quirky jewellery design. page 54

3 EAT JAPAN

Recipes from Atsuko's Japanese kitchen page 32

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

ED_LETTER_Aug19.indd 11

11

23/07/2019 17:03

Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

H E L E N B R OW N

12

D R ES S TO IMPRESS Jill Roberts’ Josie midi dress embodies the label's laid-back Californian roots. We love the pretty knotted straps and neat pearlescent buttons. £445; net-a-porter.com

THAT 70S S H OW Eric Bompard's SS19 collection seamlessly blends Mediteranean, marine and romantic influences with details ranging from the feminine to the contemporary.

The lines take their inspiration from sportswear codes and street fashion, as well as the strong, heightened femininity of the 70s. eric-bompard.com

W O N D E R F U L LY WOV E N This bohemian basket from Rae Feather is fast becoming a summer staple. Expertly hand-woven and monogrammed, you can be sure that yours will be one of a kind.

From £195; raefeather.com

WHITE NOISE Zimmermann's Juno sunglasses are a modern update on the traditional aviator shape.

The rounded frames will be particularly flattering on those with more angular faces. £200; net-a-porter.com

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

ABS_July19_Loves_2.indd 12

23/07/2019 17:04

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

CU STOM FIT

BRONZE GODDESS

Bandeau, halterneck, balconnet, triangle or full cup – Panache has an impressively wide range of supportive bikinis to suit all shapes.

All are designed to give support while looking super stylish. panache-lingerie.com

Guerlain’s limited edition terracotta compacts are the talk of beauty town each summer. For 2019, the collection is inspired by the goddesses of Antiquity, their incredible elegance and powerful femininity. £175; guerlain.com

B R A I D GA M E S Blaiz’s cream braided mid-heel mules are perfect for all occasions. Team with a midi skirt for effortless summer dressing. £125; blaiz.co.uk

COFFEE BREAK

EDITOR’S PICK

Crafted from rattan intricately woven around a sleek black metal frame, this Oslo round coffee table is the perfect addition to Scandi-inspired interiors. £265; grahamandgreen.co.uk

T H AT ' S A W R A P Add a touch of feline spirit to your wardrobe with the Anya wrap dress from Rebecca Vallance. Pair with sleek sneakers and strappy sandals for an effortless transition from day to night. £300; mytheresa.com

S N A P S H OT Leica Camera AG has teamed up with Grammy-winning musician, actor and artist Lenny Kravitz to create the Drifter. The camera is built for rock n’ roll nomads and inspired by Kravitz’s life on the road. £20,500; en.leica-camera.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_July19_Loves_2.indd 13

13

23/07/2019 17:04

SS.indd 1

24/07/2019 16:30

C U LT U R E

ABANDOMAN, UNDERBELLYFESTIVAL.COM

What’s On 16 • Outdoor swimming in London 18 • Theatre review 20 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

SE_Aug19_Culture_Opener.indd 15

15

23/07/2019 17:07

The Agenda

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

C I N E M A

Luna Cinema

3&4 August D U LW I C H PA R K This summer, Londoners south of the river can catch a screening with The Luna Cinema as it pops up in Dulwich Park. Take your pick from not one, but two unmissable screenings; the newly released and brilliant Bohemian Rhapsody and romantic lyrical drama, A Star is Born. Food will be available on-site from The Luna Cinema’s gourmet partners.

Dulwich Park, College Road, SE21; thelunacinema.com

NILE RODGERS. PHOTO BRITT LOYD

MU S I C

NILE RODGERS’ M E LT D O W N 3 - 11 AU GUST • S O U TH BA N K CEN TRE

Producer, musician and sonic trendsetter Nile Rodgers curates the 26th Meltdown – packed full of exclusive collaborations, world-wide one-offs and unmissable nights with the likes of Thundercat and Johnny Marr. Nile himself appears at a CHIC show of peerless disco funk, leading a dance floor renaissance that includes a recreation of notorious nightclub Studio 54.

Belvedere Road, SE1 southbankcentre.co.uk

16

C I N E M A

Rooftop Film Club

Until 31 August BUSSEY BUILDING Rooftop Film Club is celebrating love in all its guises with a thoughtfully-curated programme of cult classics, tear-jerkers and heart-warming must-sees - all shown under the stars. Choose from a huge selection of screenings including all-time favourites Dirty Dancing and Pretty Woman, as well as new releases Bohemian Rhapsody and Booksmart.

133 Rye Lane, SE15; rooftopfilmclub.com

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

SE_Aug19_Culture_Agenda.indd 16

24/07/2019 11:28

CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

E XH I BI T I O N

Cutting Edge:

MODERNIST BRITISH PRINTMAKING

CYRIL POWER, WHENCE & WHITHER, C.1930, PHOTO OSBORNE SAMUEL GALLERY, LONDON/ © THE ESTATE OF CYRIL POWER. BRIDGEMAN IMAGES

Ongoing D U LW I C H P I C T U R E G A L L E R Y Discover the pioneering printmakers who captured the spirit of 1930s Britain in this first major show of work from the Grosvenor School of Modern Art. Bringing together 120 prints, drawings and posters, Cutting Edge: Modernist British Printmaking champions the medium of the block-print linocut, which influential teacher and artist Claude Flight described as “an art of the people” due to its affordability and accessibility. Gallery Road, SE21; dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

AROUND

TOWN F E S T I VA L

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL Ongoing SOUTHBANK This jam-packed pop-up festival brings world class entertainment to SE1. Underbelly Festival is London’s answer to Edinburgh's Fringe and is brimming with all new Family Fest, Underbelly Lates, Podcast Live and the best live circus, cabaret, comedy and music.

Various locations, underbellyfestival.com

E X H I B I T I O N

KISS MY GENDERS

NOBODY PANIC, UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL

Ongoing H AY WA R D G A L L E R Y Kiss My Genders brings together over 100 works by global artists who employ a wide range of approaches to articulate and engage with gender fluidity. The exhibition has already garnered a clutch of five-star reviews for its celebration of more than 30 international artists whose work explores and engages with gender identity. Belvedere Road, SE1; southbankcentre.co.uk

T H E AT R E

TWELFTH NIGHT

This Month’s Must See

FLO BROOKS, I’M JUST A PHASE MY PARENTS ARE GOING THROUGH, 2018, COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND PROJECT NATIVE INFORMANT LONDON © FLO BROOKS 2019

MY OPERA HOUSE O NGOIN G • N OW GALLERY

F

or its fourth art commission, NOW Gallery welcomes 3D storyteller Kinska who has made her imaginary world come true. Created predominantly from ceramics, the installation journeys into a world born from the surreal mind of the Argentinean born artist, touching on themes of love and pain.

The Gateway Pavilions, Peninsula Square, SE10; nowgallery.co.uk

13-21 August T H E G LO B E When a shipwreck tears a family apart, twins Sebastian and Viola seek refuge in a new land. Filled with unforgettable characters, Twelfth Night combines cruelty with comedy, the pangs of unrequited love and poetry, staged as it would have been in the 17th century with a stripped back set and a small troupe of actors. 21 New Globe Walk, SE1; shakespearesglobe.com

A RT

VAN GOGH AND BRITAIN Until 11 August TAT E B R I TA I N The world’s favourite sunflower painter is on show at Tate Britain where you can admire his artworks alongside those by British artists who have been most influenced by his career. On display are over 50 works

by Vincent van Gogh which reveal how he was inspired by Britain and how he inspired British artists.

Millbank, SW1P; tate.org.uk

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

SE_Aug19_Culture_Agenda.indd 17

17

24/07/2019 11:28

Make a SPLASH

We’re making the most of the British sunshine with a spot of al fresco swimming. Here’s where you can make the most of the summer months with a dive into the deep.

By ANNABEL FULLER

T

he sun is out, the temperature is rising and the Pimm’s is flowing. London really is gorgeous during the warmer months.

Now that the summer sporting season has come to an end, it's time to don your swimmers and take a dip. Swim away your stresses at one of these top outdoor pools and ponds.

With cafes, fitness classes, deck chairs and even cinema screenings, most offer more than just a spot to swim and splash. Here we've rounded up a few of our favourite places for outdoor swimming in the capital.

18

Brockwell LIDO B R O C K W E L L PA R K

● This Grade II-listed lido boasts an Olympic length pool, gym, hydrotherapy zone and an indoor fitness centre. It’s perfectly positioned for a day trip in south London with an awardwinning cafe serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea. Dry off after your dip in front of an al fresco film from Luna Cinema.

They are hosting screenings all summer of Aquaman and Hook. fusion-lifestyle.com

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

ABS_Aug19_WIMBLEDON SCREENINGS.indd 18

24/07/2019 09:18

CULTURE • SUMMER

Hampstead BATHING PONDS H A M P S T E A D H E AT H

● Hamstead offers three dedicated pools for swimming on the heath - one male, one female and one mixed pond.

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the heath, local wildlife and swimming regulars, the Hampton ponds are a favourite among many. Arrive early to avoid the crowds. cityoflondon.gov.uk

OASIS SPORTS CENTRE WEST END One of the West End’s only outdoor swimming areas, Oasis sports centre holds a prime location. Open until 10pm during the week, this rooftop lido tends to pack out very quickly on warm days.

When you’re done with your dip, enjoy the fitness studio and squash courts below, or if you’re looking to continue the outdoor celebrations, relax at a local pub or cocktail bar. better.org.uk

POOLS in the PARK RICHMOND

● If you fancy a swim with gorgeous park views, then Richmond's Pools in the Park is the summer hang-out for you. In addition to casual swimming, fitness classes such as aqua-fit, deepwater aqua and swimming lessons are on offer. This is smaller than most outdoor pools but the adjacent park makes for a perfect day out, with plenty of room for a post-swim picnic . richmond.gov.uk

Charlton LIDO GREENWICH

● After an extensive £2 million refurbishment, Greenwich's Charlton Lido is one of London’s finest outdoor swimming spots. The facility boasts a fully-heated, 50-metre, Olympic-sized pool, two sun terraces, a cafe, gym and fitness studio on site, giving you no reason to skip the pool, even on a cooler summers day. better.org.uk

LONDON FIELDS LIDO H AC K E Y If you’re not one to brave the chill – this is British summertime after all – you’ll want to hit up London Lido Fields. This 50-metre pool is heated and gets packed during summer. Besides swimming, they also host workout sessions, yoga and aquaerobics - making it a family favourite. When you're all worn out from your swim, there’s a cafe and a sundeck, perfect for an afternoon doze sunshine. better.org.uk

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

ABS_Aug19_WIMBLEDON SCREENINGS.indd 19

19

24/07/2019 09:18

CULTURE • THEATRE

ABSOLUTELY reviews…

AN ICONIC PA I R I N G Aston Martin and James Bond is the combination making its mark on popular culture.

COURTESY OF THE TELEGRAPH

MILLBROOK PERFORMANCE DRIVING COURSE £1,500 per person;

astonmartinartofliving.com

20

© SECRET CINEMA - LUKE DYSON

T

he enduring romance between 007 and Aston Martin was born in the pages of Ian Fleming's Goldfinger and has gone on to become one of Britain's most iconic pairings. 2006 saw Daniel Craig debut as the iconic British spy, emerging from the ocean in his tiny blue swimmers, but Casino Royale also unveiled a new Aston Martin to the world - the DBS. Bond fanatics got two for the price of one with an additional appearance from the Aston Martin DB5, making Casino Royal the first film in the franchise to feature two models of the heritage brand. Bond’s DBS appears in one of the most memorable moments of the film as a high speed accident causes the car to flip and roll seven times, a new world record. The sequence was filmed on the Millbrook Proving Ground where you can have a go behind the wheel yourself, near reliving that very scene - save for the high speed somersaults. On a sunny weekend in June, I pit my skills against those of Bond stunt driver Ben Collins, testing out the Vantage, DB11, Cabriolet and Rapid on Millbrook's variety of courses, before Ben shows me how it's done on the handling track in the DBS. I had never set foot in an Aston Martin before but can now see why Fleming plumped for the iconic brand: an Aston Martin makes you feel like a connoisseur. Long live this match made in heaven.

Secret Cinema Presents Casino Royale is the largest show that Secret Cinema has ever produced and is on now until September 22. Tickets are available to buy from secretcinema.org

SECRET CINEMA PRESENTS

Casino Royale Delve into a world of excitement and espionage with Secret Cinema

T

B y H E L E N B R OW N

he name’s Billingsley – Jenelle Billingsley. Or at least that’s what I'm going with as I make my way to a location that must remain undisclosed. My mission?

That’d be telling. But what I can say is that this is all under the instruction of Secret Cinema who have taken on Casino Royale for the latest episode in their series of immersive film extravaganzas.

It’s templated like previous events, throwing its audiences into a world where the lines between fiction and reality are blurred. So in this case, it's the glamourous and action-filled world of James Bond.

Ahead of the evening, my friend and I are recruited as part of Operation Wildcard, given a thorough MI6 briefing and assigned to M Branch. We’re advised to develop our characters. Where did they make their

millions? How might they fare in a night of high stakes and sophistication? Having returned from Glastonbury only the day before, the two of us are hugely unprepared.

Certainly those who put more into it, get more out but we have fun making like Bond, running around brilliant sets, tracking down various characters and drinking martinis. .

Once you’ve had your fill of exploring, eating, and drinking, it’s time to actually watch the film. Actors reinact some of the film’s biggest moments alongside and the audience is more engaged than that of your typical cinema screening. For me the best part of the whole experience is being part of a packed audience, enjoying a film that they’ve maybe seen 100 times already, or perhaps had no interest in watching before.

That’s why people book their tickets again and again for Secret Cinema, there is a ton of unbridalled, unexpected fun to be had in an evening.

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

ABS_Aug19_Thearte.indd 20

24/07/2019 10:22

A magical outdoor tale for all the family

20 July – 26 August

0844 871 8819 (calls cost 7p per minute plus network extras)

theatreonkew.co.uk RG.indd 1

24/07/2019 16:27

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. 2019

View and buy online at w w w.pullmaneditions.com PULLMAN.indd 1 Pullman Ed-Absolutely Magazine.indd 1

26/06/2019 12:28 11:25 07/06/2019

CULTURE • THEATRE

ROUND UP

Best in SHOW Get the most out of London’s theatre scene with our top stage picks for the month

MUST SEE

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

Until 24 August

BARBICAN CENTRE

Following two sell-out seasons at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s heavenly rock opera returns to London for a limited season. Stellar musicians, contemporary design and thrilling choreography come together in one energetic and emotionally charged production.

Silk Street, EC2Y; barbican.org.uk

By H E L E N B R O W N

SHERLOCK HOLMES

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE INVISIBLE THING

From 25 July

RUDOLF STEINER THEATRE

Written by Greg Freeman and directed

by David Phipps-Davis, Sherlock Holmes and The Invisible Thing is revised and restaged for its run at Rudolf Steiner Theatre. Holmes and Watson are called to investigate a murder seemingly committed by an invisible perpetrator. As they probe into the mysterious lakeside drowning, something startling emerges…

35 Park Road, Marylebone, NW1; rsh.anth.org.uk

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM

WARHEADS

Ongoing

From 15 August

GLOBE THEATRE

PARK THEATRE

Four brawling lovers caught in a dispute of increasingly magical proportions, a crew of keen mechanicals determined to give it their all and one roguish sprite, hell-bent on causing havoc. What could go wrong?This new technicolour production of Shakespeare’s raucous comedy explodes with dramatic poetry, mischief and merriment.

21 New Globe Walk, SE1; shakespearesglobe.com

After returning from Afghanistan, 19-yearold Miles Weppler isn’t quite himself. Noises don’t sound the same. People don’t look the same. Pizza doesn’t taste the same. Through the eyes of some he’s a lost boy and through the eyes of others he’s stubborn, scary even. Warheads oscillates between multiple timelines to give the audience a glimpse into Miles’ life before he signed up to the army and the man he becomes post-war.

Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, N4; parktheatre.co.uk

EVITA

From 2 August

EVITA

REGENT ’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE

Jamie Lloyd directs Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical, Evita.

Dividing the Argentinian people with her patriotic speeches, her ambition, glamour and magnetism established Evita as the world’s first major political celebrity.

With a chart-topping score including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, Oh What A Circus, Another Suitcase in Another Hall and the Oscar-winning You Must Love Me. Regent's Park, Inner Circle, NW1; openairtheatre.com

WARHEADS

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

Abs_Aug19_Theatre Roundup.indd 23

23

23/07/2019 17:11

020 8318 4321

clarendon.indd 1

24/06/2019 16:20

FOOD & DRINK

SWEET TREATS RUBY VIOLET

Ruby Violet specialises in small batch, handmade ice cream, sorbet and other frozen delights.

A seemingly endless menu or eccentric flavours includes brown toast & Seville orange marmalade, greengage & sour cream, and pink gooseberry hazelnut meringue. rubyviolet.co.uk

Food notes 26 • Food review 29 • Recipes: Atsuko Ikeda 32 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

SE_Aug19_Food_Opener.indd 25

25

23/07/2019 17:13

WHAT TO DRINK

GRAPE news Wine recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

London’s food news and most exciting openings this August

By FLORA THOMAS

By BERRY BROS. & RUDD

2018 Berry Bros. & Rudd Beaujolais-Villages by Desvignes  £12.95 The fruit comes from a parcel of 60-yearold vines at 400m altitude.

They provide concentrated strawberry fruit, while the high altitude and granite soil give grip and mineral freshness. Made without oak to preserve the pristine fruity character.

2018 Berry Bros. & Rudd Reserve Rosé by Collovray & Terrier  £8.95 Pale pink in colour, this wine offers youthful red fruit aromas of wild raspberries and pink grapefruit. A blend of grenache, cinsault and syrah, it combies vibrant red berry fruit with intense spicy notes that give the wine a layer of complexity.

2018 Domaine Lyrarakis, Voilá Assyrtiko, Crete, Greece  £12.95 Dry-farmed and grown at 580m altitude in Crete, this wine has subtle aromas of white fruits and stony minerals.

There is a definite floral character, with refreshing acidity and chalky texture.

Delicious with fresh seafood or grilled fish.

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

26

Surf ‘n’ turf C OA L S H E D

The Coal Shed is heading back to the 1960s in its attempt to revive the retro trend of surf ‘n’ turf. Although best showcased in an enormous sharing platter, highlights from the brunch menu include scallop and pork skewers and nduja with mussels. Diners may opt to go bottomless with a choice of a bloody Mary, breakfast martini or botanical bellini.

One Tower Bridge, Tower Bridge Road, SE1 coalshed-restaurantlondon.co.uk

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

SE_Aug19_Food_Notes.indd 26

23/07/2019 17:14

FOOD & DRINK• NOTES Our pick of the best

ICE CREAM & GELATO

TELLING T H E T R U T H L A G E L AT I E R A

Champagne breakfast

Born in Italy and raised in London, La gelatiera offers its own take on the age-old delicacy of gelato.

Hand-crafted with 100% natural ingredients, each batch is made with love. Serving original flavour combinations like honey, rosemary and orange zest, and basil with chilli, you’ll want to keep coming back until you’ve tried them all. lagelatiera.co.uk

OBLIX

HONEST BURGERS

Honest Burgers continues to support the local community at their newest site. Three specials on offer include the Tooley Street Burger which uses nduja from local suppliers Crown & Queue and the Bermondsey Spritz made from Aperol and grapefruit tonic from Bermondsey Mizer Company.

6 Bermondsey Street, SE1 honestburgers.co.uk

Celebrate summer in style with a seafood brunch at the top of the Shard. Kick start the feast with a sharing platter, move on to a crayfish ravioli main course and finish with mini chocolate cornettos. Fancy a tipple?

Upgrade your Saturday morning by choosing free-flowing Billecart champagne.

The Shard, 31 St Thomas Street, SE1 oblixrestaurant.com RU BY V I O L E T Ruby Violet is a wholesome ice cream parlour serving a delicious selection of modern classics. From the orginal mint choc chip to the refreshingly modern Mojito sorbet, this ever changing menu has something for everyone. rubyviolet.co.uk

F O R AG E AND FE AST NATIVE

Drink with a view THE RESIDENCE ON THE ROOF

The Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square has launched an exclusive bar on the terrace of one of its luxury residences, overlooking the Tower of London. Drinks include twists on classics, like the margarita-esque ‘Mexican’ with flavours of mango and agave. Bar snacks include dim sum and salad.

10 Trinity Square, EC3N fourseasons.com/tentrinity

S N O W F L A K E G E L AT O A true mix of British fare with Italian flair. Using local ingredients with traditional Italian methods, over 50 gelato flavours are on the menu. Plus, if you can’t find a flavour you like, Snowflake will literally make one for you, ensuring every customer is served happiness. snowflakegelato.co.uk

In an effort to showcase root-to-plate cooking at its best, the cofounders of Native have launched a series of events called Forage and Feast. They see diners meet up for a twohour foraging tour before heading to Native to enjoy a well-deserved three-course foraged lunch together.

32 Southwark Street, SE1 eatnative.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

SE_Aug19_Food_Notes.indd 27

27

23/07/2019 17:14

TOULOUSE.indd 1

25/06/2019 10:50

FOOD & DRINK • REVIEW

ABSOLUTELY eats out…

“The result is terrifically soft pink meat with charred edges’’

Shots Fired Gunpowder Tower Bridge is dynamite

G

FOOD Indian

B y F LO R A T H O M A S

unpowder’s second branch in Southwark opened last year following the roaring success of the Spitalfields original. This one is almost underneath Tower Bridge, it’s much larger, with room for 100 covers (just 20 fit in the original), and attracts a slicker crowd. We’re here for dinner on a gloriously sunny July day and manage to nab one of the few outside tables which affords us a remarkably uninterrupted view of the river.

Cocktails here are versions of classics: I order a margarita with a

twist - the twist being tamarind - and when it arrives it looks like dishwater, dark and muddied. It tastes, however, marvellous. So marvellous that I stick to the drink for the entire night. It has the kick you’re looking for in such a cocktail as well as a slow-burning warmth which is strangely welcome on a hot day.

Service is brilliant and the staff are consistently effusive about the menu with, as I’m about to discover, good reason. My favourite dish is a souped up kale salad. It arrives first and works well as an accompaniment to everything else we order. Heavily dressed, it has scrumptious bits of aubergine on top, pomegranate seeds on top of that, and the whole thing

DECOR Industrial chic

PRICE Sharing plates around £9 each

VERDICT Even better than the original

sits on a goat cheese sauce. You could order just this as your main course and be satisfied. Plus, at £8 you’d be quite the frugal feeder.

Kashmiri lamb chops are another winner. They’ve been marinated in a fiery, saffron yoghurt sauce, and the result is terrifically soft pink meat with charred edges. Completely delicious when dunked into the pot of hot green sauce, even better if you manage to pile a few pickled onions on top. Karwari soft shell crab, while surplus to requirement at our increasingly full table, is highly moreish. It’s a big portion, so if you’re getting it ‘just to try’, like us, then hold back on other dishes.

For pudding I ask the waiter to choose for us and he duly arrives with their most popular dish. It’s effectively bread and butter pudding soaked - and I mean soaked - in Old Monk rum. Having both spent many months travelling around India, my friend and I are all too familiar with the sweet headiness of Old Monk, and we’re forced on a trip down memory lane.

By the time we return to the present moment the pudding is finished and it’s home time.

G U N P OW D E R TOW E R B R I D G E 4 Duchess Walk, London SE1

gunpowderlondon.com

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

SE_August19_FOOD REVIEW.indd 29

29

23/07/2019 17:15

W E C AT E R !

Seasonal, sustainable and delicious food wherever you need it, catering and delivering for events all over London For more information please call Shona, Molly or Katy on 0208 297 9966

events@handmadefood.com www.handmadefood.com HMF.indd 1

23/05/2019 10:41

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

0208 945 5794

BRAMLY JENNINGS.indd 1 JB_Dul_Mar.indd 1

• SE_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 1

|

0771 555 4694

|

www.jennings-bramly.co.uk

|

richard@bramly.co.uk

03/05/2018 26/09/2014 14:47 16:03

26/07/2019 14:21

FOOD & DRINK • COLUMN

COURGETTES STUFFED with SWEET and SOUR AUBERGINE Serves 4 Preparation time approx. 30 minutes Cooking time approx. 30 minutes

On the

MENU

A seasonal supper from Guy Awford of Hand Made Food in Blackheath Wo r d s G U Y AW F O R D

T

he Mediterranean fruit vegetables – aubergines, tomatoes, courgettes and sweet peppers – are at their peak right now. Combined with onions, basil and copious amounts of olive oil they make some of the month’s best eating.

These vegetables can be braised together to make a classic ratatouille or, with the addition of pine nuts, capers, raisins and red wine vinegar, a piquant Sicilian caponata. There is also a long history of stuffing these vegetables with rice, minced meat, cheese and vegetables to create a whole myriad of tasty dishes.

For my recipe, I am stuffing yellow courgettes with a sweet and sour aubergine filling. The sharpness comes from red wine vinegar and the

CHEF-PATRON GUY AWFORD

sweetness from raisins. Fresh thyme and capers add a salty earthiness to the dish.

The courgettes need to be fully cooked before you stuff and bake them as they will not change texture during this last stage of cooking.

Halve the courgettes lengthwise

With onions, basil and copious amounts of olive oil they make some of the month’s best eating

INGREDIENTS • 2 large yellow courgettes – prepared as aforementioned.

• 1 small red onion – finely diced • ½ clove garlic – crushed • 1 aubergine – small dice • 2 tablespoons pine nuts • 2 tablespoons raisins • 1 tablespoon Lilliput capers • 1 tablespoons red wine vinegar • pinch chopped thyme • 2 tablespoons parsley – chopped • Grated parmesan

METHOD 1 To make the stuffing gentle sauté the onions and garlic, with a generous pinch of salt, in olive oil until soft.

2 Add the aubergines and another glug of olive oil and cook for about 5 minutes. They should be very soft and just starting to colour. Add the pine nuts, raisins, capers, vinegar and herbs, along with the chopped courgette flesh. Cook for a few minutes and then season to taste.

3 Pre-heat the oven to 200C. 4 Brush the courgettes and lightly season. Press the stuffing into the hollow, sprinkle with Parmesan and bake for about 15 minutes.

and use a teaspoon to scrape out a hollow to hold the filling. Chop the scraped-out flesh and add to the stuffing mix. Steam or boil the courgettes for a few minutes and then refresh in cold water. Pat dry, drizzle with olive oil and lightly season with salt. The courgettes are now ready for stuffing.

Serve the dish with some freshly cut tomatoes, basil, roasted peppers and a generous drizzle of olive oil.

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

SE_Aug19_GUY AWFORD.indd 31

31

23/07/2019 17:16

Japan

EASY Japanese homecooking made simple with Atsuko Ikeda Wo r d s AT S U KO I K E DA Photography YUKI SUGIURA

CHAN CHAN YAKI

Fried & steamed salmon in miso garlic sauce

T

his native recipe from Hokkaido, Japan’s most northern island, consists of pan-frying (yaki) salmon and some assorted vegetables, then steaming the lot in sake and serving it in miso sauce. It’s uncertain where the ‘chan chan’ part of the name comes from, but one story says it is simply the sound of the ingredients frying!

I like to add a little garlic to the miso sauce for an extra burst of flavour.

INGREDIENTS (serves 2) • 1 tbsp vegetable oil •2 skin-on salmon fillets • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced •¼ Savoy cabbage, diced into bite-sized pieces

32

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

Abs_Aug19_Recipes_3pp.indd 32

23/07/2019 17:17

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

• 1/2 carrot, peeled and cut into matchsticks • 60 g/2¼ oz. fresh shimeji mushrooms, bottoms trimmed and separated • 2 tbsp sake • 1 tbsp butter, to serve Miso garlic sauce • 2 garlic cloves, grated • 3 tbsp red miso • 2 tbsp mirin • large frying pan/skillet with a lid

METHOD 1 For the miso garlic sauce, in a small bowl, combine the grated garlic with the red miso and mirin, then stir until combined. Set aside.

2 Heat the vegetable oil in the large frying pan/skillet over a high heat. Fry both the salmon fillets, skin-side down for 2–3 minutes, or until the skin has browned.

3 Flip over and fry for 2 more minutes, then remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.

4 Add all the vegetables and mushrooms to the hot pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes.

5 Put the salmon fillets back into the pan, nestled among the vegetables, and pour in the sake around the salmon. Place a lid

over the frying pan/skillet and let the fish steam over a medium heat for 1 minute to cook off the alcohol.

6 Add the miso garlic sauce to the pan and stir gently to evenly coat the ingredients. Put the lid back on and simmer for 4–5 minutes over a mediumhigh heat until the salmon is perfectly cooked all the way through.

7 When ready to serve, top each salmon fillet with a sliver of butter and allow it to melt a little. Serve hot.

It’s uncertain where the the name comes from, but some say it is simply the sound of the ingredients frying

YAKI UDON

Stir-fried udon noodles

U

don noodles are thick wheat flour noodles, much more substantial than soba or ramen and definitely chewier.

Their main attraction is known as their ‘koshi-ness’, the elasticity and bite in each mouthful. Although not the most common type of noodle in the West, in Japan they are as commonly eaten as pasta. Here they are stir-fried with pork, prawns/shrimp and plenty of fresh vegetables for a super-quick, delicious meal.

INGREDIENTS (serves 2) • 500 g/1 lb. 2 oz. frozen udon noodles • 3 tbsp soy sauce • 2 tbsp mirin • 20 g/. oz. fresh ginger,peeled and grated • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • 120 g/4¼ oz. pork belly, thinly sliced into 3-cm/1¼-inch strips • 40 g/1½ oz. prawns/shrimp, peeled and deveined • 40 g/1½ oz. squid, trimmed and sliced into rings • 1 onion, thinly sliced • ½ carrot, peeled and cut into matchsticks • 80 g/3 oz. Savoy cabbage, sliced into thin strips • 80 g/scant 1½ cups beansprouts • 1 tsp katsuobushi dashi powder • a pinch of ground white pepper To serve • 2 spring onions/scallions, finely chopped • katsuobushi (bonito flakes) • 1 tsp aonori (nori seaweed flakes)

METHOD 1 Defrost the udon noodles by immersing them in a bowl or pan of just-boiled water.

Stir gently until disentangled and softened.

Drain well and set aside.

2 Combine the soy sauce, mirin and grated ginger in a small bowl and set aside.

3 Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan/skillet (about 30 cm/12 inches in diameter is good) over a high heat. Add the pork belly slices and fry, stirring, until nicely browned. Add the prawns/shrimp and squid rings after about 2 minutes and halfway through cooking the pork.

4 Add the onion, carrot and cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for 3 minutes more.

5 Add the cooked udon noodles and beansprouts, then stir-fry with the vegetables for 1 minute.

6 Add the dashi powder and the soy

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

Abs_Aug19_Recipes_3pp.indd 33

33

23/07/2019 17:17

Baish Designs

Sally Lees Jewellery

Rubys of London

ARTS&CRAFTS MARKET Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Weekends

S! GAME & N t FU 21 Augus ay wednesd to 8pm m a 11

• SE_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 2

ANTIQUES&COLLECTABLES

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays

Nearest Station DLR Cutty Sark #greenwichmarket www.greenwichmarket.london

26/07/2019 14:22

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

• 1 tbsp soy sauce • 2 tsp runny honey • 1 tsp Sichuan broad/fava bean chilli/ chili paste • ½ tbsp katakuriko (potato starch) or cornflour/ cornstarch mixed with ½ tbsp cold water • 400 g/3 cups cooked white Japanese rice, to serve • 1 spring onion/scallion, thinly sliced, to garnish

METHOD

MAPO TOFU DON

the point of numbing, so I’ve created a milder, but still fragrant version, using aubergine/eggplant instead of meat.

It’s just as soft but much lighter... guiltfree seconds are a must.

Sichuan tofu & aubergine rice bowls

INGREDIENTS (serves 2)

any Japanese dishes are inspired by Chinese cuisine, and this particular dish originates from Szechuan, where at the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), the pock-marked (po) wife (ma) of a restaurateur became famous for her tofu recipe. Mapo tofu is soft and set in a spicy bean sauce and is traditionally made with minced/ground pork. It’s a dish that goes particularly well with steamed rice – maybe that’s why the Japanese love it so much. Szechuan spices can be very fiery to

• 400 g/14 oz. packet of silken tofu (soft tofu) • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • 10 g/¼ oz. garlic, chopped • 20 g/¾ oz. fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped • ½ leek, thinly sliced • 1 aubergine/eggplant, diced into small cubes Mapo sauce • 2 tbsp sake • 2 tbsp red miso • 1 tbsp mirin

M

1 Dice the tofu into small cubes, then wrap in two layers of paper towels to remove any excess water. Set aside.

2 Meanwhile, to make the mapo sauce, combine the sake, red miso, mirin, soy sauce, honey and Sichuan broad/fava bean chilli/chili paste in a small bowl. Stir together and set aside.

3 Heat the toasted sesame oil and vegetable oil in a medium frying pan/ skillet over a medium heat. Fry the garlic, ginger and leek for 1 minute to infuse the flavour into the oil, then add the aubergine/eggplant. Fry for 2 minutes until browned.

4 Add the mapo sauce and 80 ml/ 1/3 cup water to the pan with the vegetables, reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 3 minutes.

5 Add the tofu cubes gently, then pour the katakuriko (potato starch) or cornflour/cornstarch and water mixture around the rim of the pan.

Bring to the boil for about 1 minute to thicken the mixture slightly, then remove from the heat.

6 Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls and add the mapo tofu.

Garnish the dishes with sliced spring onion/scallion.

AT S U KO ’ S JA PA N E S E K I TC H E N Ryland Peters & Small, £16.99

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

Abs_Aug19_Recipes_3pp.indd 35

35

26/07/2019 10:15

RAMOS PINTO WINE DINNER

RGH.indd 1

26/06/2019 10:44

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET

What to drink and how to drink it

By ANNABEL FULLER

PREVIEW

DRINK PINK CA M P O V I E J O R O S É

Spanish winemakers Campo Viejo, have introduced their award-winning crisp and elegant Rosé to the UK. The bright, lively wine offers vibrant red fruit with hints of flowers and sweet spices. Aromatic and fruit-forward, it’s a homage to summer that evokes freshness and jovial relaxation, enjoyed best alongside summer tapas. campoviejo.com

SPIRIT OF GOA ST R A N G E R & S O N S

From Third Eye Distillery comes Stranger & Sons, one of the first gins to be distilled in the Indian subcontinent since the 1940s. With soft notes of Gondhoraj lime from Calcutta, coupled with a smooth body and the warmth of liquorice and cassia bark, this gindelivers an unexpected twist. £35; strangerandsons.com

CROWN JEWEL

R OYA L S A L U T E LO ST B L E N D S

This year the King of Whisky is toasting to an all-new look for its signature 21-Year-Old Scotch whisky, showcasing a contemporary take on its history with a colourful, enchanting depiction of the British Royal Menagerie. The whisky retains its well-loved richness delivering a smooth blend with a modern twist. royalsalute.com

Brilliant Buzz The Espresso Martini festival returns

By ANNABEL FULLER

T

his five-day festival dedicated to the espresso martini is set to get Londoners buzzing when it returns to the capital this month with a caffeinated bang. Made possible by the wickedly boozy coffee liqueur Mr Black, who preach the virtues of taking coffee into the night, Espresso Martini Fest is back and expected to be bigger than ever.

Taking place between 7 and 11 August, the festival will see bartenders across the city rustling up their own fresh take on the classic espresso martini. The likes of Opium, 68 and Boston, El Camion in Soho, the birthplace of the espresso martini, and Looking Glass Cocktail Club in Shoreditch will be participating in the third year of the festival.

For the first time, access to the festival is going to be completely free as the festival’s partner Drink. Up London, the brains behind London Cocktail Week and London Wine Week celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Festival-goers looking for more than just a pick-me-up drink can get in on the secrets behind perfecting the nation’s favourite caffeinated cocktail at exclusive masterclasses. Held at Hackney Coffee Company guests will dabble in making their own creative serves to enjoy on the night. Entry is free – and entitles you to £6 espresso martinis at various sites – but you need to register for a digital pass at drinkup.london

ESPRESSO MARTINI FESTIVAL 7-11 August, Various locations

drinkup.london

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

ABS_Aug19_Drinks.indd 37

37

26/07/2019 10:34

KANDIMA.indd 1

24/05/2019 11:58

FASHION

IN THE FRAME SPILTMILK

The SpiltMilk eyewear collection evokes humour, luxury and sensuality. Using a combination of malleable titanium and metal, each pair can be adjusted to fit every face like a glove. spiltmilkeyewear.com

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Sustainable swimwear 40 · Poolside Gossip 44 · 20 years of Tatty Devine 54 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

Aug19_Fashion_Opener.indd 39

39

26/07/2019 10:46

SURF LIFE S A N D & PA L M

After years of travelling the globe to tropical surf destinations, Vicki Jones realised there was a gap in the surf and swimwear market for beautifully designed swimsuits, that fit properly and don’t go anywhere in the surf, with gorgeous prints, and that are also ethically and sustainably produced. She launched Sand & Palm which has an eco-conscious approach and stays put in the surf. sandandpalm.com

P L A S T I C B E A C H THE SWIMWEAR BRANDS WITH A FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY

FAIR trade MARBLE SWIMWEAR

● New label Marble Swimwear create the prettiest bikinis made from recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles. As well as using planetfriendly Econyl® yarn they also only use packaging made from cassava starch which is 100% biodegradable and can be composted or recycled along with paper. Each design is made by local communities in Bali who are paid a fair living wage. marbleswimwear.com

40

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

ABS_Aug19_ECO-FRIENDLY SWIMWEAR.indd 40

26/07/2019 10:57

• SWIMWEAR • XXXXX FASHION CULTURE

Romantic NOSTALGIA LILLIPUT & FELIX

● Lilliput & Felix is a sustainable, luxury swim and beachwear brand that creates beautifully high-end pieces with a luxurious, structured feel and a sense of romantic nostalgia. Merging classic and contemporary influences and styles, the swimwear is carefully cut into unique shapes to enhance and flatter the female form in all its wonderful permutations. lilliputandfelix.com

WASTE NOT ECO SWIM

CANDY COLOURS TIDE AND SEEK

● Providing a sustainable alternative, Tide and Seek offers a beach-ready range using 100 per cent recycled material certified Repreve. Each item is infused with recycled plastic waste and features playful prints and candy shades. tideandseek.com

● Around 640,000 tonnes of fishing gear is left in the oceans each year, which remains in the marine ecosystem for hundreds of years.

Over 100,000 sea mammals are killed in the ocean by pollution each year, over 1 million sea birds are killed every year by ocean pollution and 300,000 dolphins die each year as a result of becoming entangled in discarded fishing nets.

Eco Swim have created luxury swimwear made from ocean waste, so you can do your bit for the planet with each piece you wear.. ecoswim.co.uk

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

ABS_Aug19_ECO-FRIENDLY SWIMWEAR.indd 41

41

26/07/2019 10:57

BEACH CAFE.indd 1

22/05/2019 11:35

FASHION • Q&A

Q&A

SILK shop Dovilė Šopytė designs beautiful and simple dresses for her brand Shopyte Interview P E N D L E H A R T E

Q Can you describe your signature style?

I love classic elegance and natural fabrics. We create timeless garments in a sustainable way.

Q What led you to fashion design?

My mother is working in the production side of the fashion industry for over a couple of decades, but I wasn't seeing myself in this industry until some years ago when I started painting on the canvas. Then it led me to accessories creation. A couple of years later, my husband joined me – we established the womenswear brand and never looked back.

Q Tell us about your fabrics. Your summer collection is all silk - what are you looking for in fabric?

When we source our fabrics, we give great attention to the naturality, the finest quality and the finishing of it, because all these aspects bring comfort and longevity. Silk is a specific fabric which is not easy to work with. I feel a lot of joy when I can experiment with it and create cuts which are not very typical for silk.

“I feel joy when creating cuts that are not typical for silk ”

Q Where do you souce fabrics?

We travelled to a major sourcing fair in Paris. At this time we have found four suppliers in Italy; we use their fabrics for all of our collections.

Q What's next for the brand?

At this time we are creating a SS20 collection, as well as preparing intensely for LFW, where we will premiere a lot of hand-made garments. I try to convey a message that will draw attention to the intolerable desire of the human being, irrespective of its consequences.

Q Who are your favourite designers?

At this time Victoria Beckham, Marc Jacobs.

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

ABS_Aug19_FASHION SHOPYTE.indd 43

43

26/07/2019 11:00

HOT GOSSIP

PAMELA BLUNDELL’S NEW LUXE SWIMWEAR COLLECTION IS UPPING THE STAKES FOR POOLSIDE GLAMOUR P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y H A R R I E T M AC S W E E N P O O L S I D E G O S S I P. L O N D O N

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 44

26/07/2019 11:12

Joy bikini in Gold Dance, £160

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 45

26/07/2019 11:12

Hollywood one-piece in deep blue, £210 Pop bikini in lime/sunshine, £150

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 46

26/07/2019 11:13

Rainbow one-piece, £220

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 47

26/07/2019 11:13

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 48

26/07/2019 11:13

Swanky in hot pink/emerald with gold trim, ÂŁ150

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 49

26/07/2019 11:13

Itsy bikini, £145

Glamour one-piece, £230

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 50

26/07/2019 11:14

Shimmer one-piece, reversible gold/sunshine, ÂŁ195; hot pink, ÂŁ185

ABS_Aug19_Shoot.indd 51

26/07/2019 11:14

www.thecouturegallery.com

CG.indd 1

26/10/2018 10:04

FASHION • JEWELLERY

Pearly Treasures Endless style with modern pearls

MIKIMOTO

SASKIA DIEZ

DAVID MORRIS

White Gold Twist Ring, £1800

Gold Pearl Hoop Earring, £323

White Gold, Pearl and Diamond Pearl Rose Bangle, £18,600

net-a-porter.com

Harrods.com

mikimoto.com

BOODLES

TIFFANY & CO

ANANYA

Knot Long Diamond South Sea Pearl Necklace, £18,400

Aria Bracelet of Akoya in Platinum £14,100

Celeste Pearl Ear Cuffs, POA

Boodles.com

tiffany.co.uk

ananya.com

APPLE & FIGS

VAN CLEF & ARPLES

LINKS OF LONDON

Celestial Pearl & Star Earrings, £210

Vintage Alhambra Long Necklace, £13,000

Orbs Pearl & Sterling Silver Large Hoop Earrings, £295

harveynichols.com

vancleefarples.com

linksoflondon.com

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

Abs_Aug19_Jewellery.indd 53

53

26/07/2019 11:16

TATTY DEVINE AW13

HARRIET VINE AND ROSIE WOLFENDEN

Charm

S C H O O L A new Crafts Council exhibition celebrates 20 years of quirky London jewellery brand Tatty Devine. Absolutely takes a look Wo r d s P E A R L B OY D

54

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

ABS_Aug19_TATTY DEVINE.indd 54

26/07/2019 11:24

FASHION • PROFILE MEMPHIS PHONE SET

The homespun, anarchic approach remains culturally relevant today

T

atty Devine’s statement jewellery is always ahead of the curve. Their jewellery tells stories and generates conversation. This summer, a new Crafts Council exhibition, Misshapes: The making of Tatty Devine, will consider the power of creativity and innovative British design and making, alongside the glamour and humour that Tatty Devine are known for.

Design duo Harriet Vine and Rosie Wolfenden met at Chelsea College of Art and founded Tatty Devine when they graduated in 1999. They soon started trading from a market stall in east London and developed a signature style that saw them lauded in Vogue and stocked in Harvey Nichols and Whistles within the year. The brand’s homespun, anarchic approach resonated with an industry and public who were hungry for something unlike the commercialised, mass-produced products on offer. Turning disposable objects like guitar plectrums and cake decorations into playful, personality-packed jewellery resonated with people and generated fans all over the world, as well as collaborations with musicians, artists and fashion designers. On a trip to New York in 2001 they discovered laser-cut acrylic and on their return they invested in a laser-cutting machine, rarely used in jewellery at that time, which then gave them a creative freedom to push the boundaries.

And now, 20 years after pioneering attentiongrabbing laser cut jewellery, all their pieces are still made by hand in the UK. They remain culturally relevant as they continue to design bold pieces for campaigns close to their hearts, such as Fawcett

TATTY DEVINE SS14

KOMONO BLOOM SET

Society, Comic Relief and Battersea Cats and Dogs Home, and they are passionate advocates for the power of creativity.

Misshapes will feature over 100 pieces from the past 20 years, from the early leather cuffs and piano belts to giant two metre versions of their best-sellers, including a lobster, their magpies and a huge banana alongside sketchbooks, ephemera and two new films. Also newer pieces that show how Tatty Devine continues to embrace technology and cultural shifts.

The book Misshapes: The Making of Tatty Devine will track the development of Tatty Devine’s aesthetic, techniques and creativity. It will present pieces from their archive, going under the bonnet of how they think and make, with extracts from their sketchbooks and notebooks, and plenty of visual treats. Championing creativity, running throughout the book will be an inclusive ‘we did it, you can too’ ethos.

Tatty Devine will be producing a one-off 20th anniversary collection featuring 20 reimagined Tatty Devine classics from their many collections, including Pegasus wings, lightning bolts, price tags and the pouring gin fizz bottle.

Misshapes continues until 11 August at Central Saint Martins’ Lethaby Gallery, 1 Granary Square, London N1C 4AA, before a UK-wide tour. Entrance is free. tattydevine.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Aug19_TATTY DEVINE.indd 55

55

26/07/2019 11:24

izipizi.com

FASHION • ACCESSORIES

SILHOUETTE Infinity 8705 in green, £234 edel-optics.co.uk

SWAROVSKI Marcolin sunglasses, POA swarovski.com

FINLAY LONDON Percy in sherbert lemon, £120 fi nlayandco.com

QUAY AUSTRALIA Hindsight, £45 quayaustralia.co.uk

SHERIFF & CHERRY

BERLUTI

Biarritz in Champagne, €160 sheriffandcherry.com

Halo Round Shape Acetate Sunglasses, £380 berluti.com

EDITOR’S PICK

SUN

GUCCI Square frame gold-tone sunglasses, £310 net-a-porter.com

WORSHIP Step into summer with the seasons hottest shades

RAY BAN Round frame gold-tone sunglasses, £125 net-a-porter.co.uk

B y H E L E N B R OW N

NEUBAU Max, €199 neubau-eyewear.com

IZIPIZI X SUNNYLIFE #C Pink Halo, £35 izipizi.com

SWAROVSKI X MARCOLIN Sunglasses with click-on mask, £199 swarovski.com

KOMONO Quinten Mesdagh komono.com

FINLAY & CO KENZO Eye sunglasses, £205 kenzo.com

56

Percy sunglasses in ruby, £120 fi nlayandco.com

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

ABS_July19_ SUNGLASSES.indd 56

26/07/2019 11:36

Keep your luxury handbag in shape

BAGPAD.indd 1

26/06/2019 11:24

North America’s favourite designer paint brand now available at

Eltham DIY Ltd 3,500 stunning colours Exceptional quality Expert service

020 8850 1781 sales@elthamdiy.co.uk ELTHAM DIY.indd 1

• PCL HALVES/QUARTERS.indd 2

118-120 Westmount Road, Eltham, Royal Greenwich, London, SE9 1UT

Monday – Saturday 8am – 5pm 22/05/2019 11:43

26/07/2019 16:05

Reduced prices are for a course of treatments

POPUL AR AREAS INCLUDE Buttocks & Back of Thighs (60 minutes) Was £240, Now £180 (save £60) Stomach and Waist (30 minutes) Was £180, Now £100 (save £80) Buttocks (30 minutes) Was £180, Now £100 (Save £80)

CLINICALLY PROVEN FOCUSED FAT REDUCTION

• Cellulite improvement • • Long term circumferential decrease • • Skin tightening and firming • • Lifting, toning and firming of muscles • • Detoxification and improved drainage • • Enhanced blood circulation and oxygenation • Treatments are from: • £100 for body • £30 for face

Book your complimentary consultation today

0207 243 1113 bookings@coconailbar.com @coconailbarlondon

COCO NB.indd 1

26/04/2019 09:39

HEALTH & BEAUTY

FIELDS OF GOLD JO MALONE

Originally part of the limited-edition English Fields collection, Poppy & Barley has been picked from the harvest to be Jo Malone's new stand alone scent. This lively floral fragrance is enhanced by rose and and topped off with juicy blackcurrants. jomalone.co.uk

Beauty notes 61 • Summer scent 63 • Treatment reviews 64 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

Aug19_Beauty_Opener.indd 59

59

26/07/2019 11:38

Urgent Care Centres Just walk in, be seen quickly Instant access to private medical care Open 365 days a year, no appointment needed Ages 18+ London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge SE1 2PR

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea SW1W 8RH

The Princess Grace Hospital Marylebone W1U 5NY The Wellington Hospital

St John’s Wood NW8 9LE

Ages 0-17 The Portland Hospital

Fitzrovia W1W 5AH

For more information visit: www.urgentcarecentre.co.uk or call 020 3993 1592

HCA.indd 1 U1220121801UCC UCC Absolutely Kingston & Surrey.indd 1

26/06/2019 18/06/2019 10:21 09:26

HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

Holistic hair, eco-skin and a brilliant body oil

By ANNABEL FULLER

THE REVIEW

Stress LESS

Organic Mondays Here’s to plastic-free periods…

O LV E R U M

Age-old essential oils brand, Olverum has launched its first new products in over 80 years.

Beloved by the queen and famous for its iconic calming bath oil, the brand has launched two gorgeous body oils, one nourishing and one light. Just a few drops of this deeply moisturising formula will leave your skin smooth, plumped and rejuvenated, from £36; olverum.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Ride the WAVE O N E O C E A N B E AU T Y

Inspired by the ocean, this clean and fully sustainable brand is the new go-to for skincare obsessives. Blue biotechnology replicates marine actives from algae and seaweed, that are proven to be effective for hydration and brightening. All packaging is 100% recyclable to support the marine environment. oneoceanbeauty.com

LUSCIOUS LOCKS PHILIP KINGSLEY

Philip Kingsley's multi-award-winning Elasticizer treatment - with its 45-year heritage - has been reformulated so as to evoke a sense of wellbeing. Rose & Lychee has been specially developed to balance, calm and relax, creating the ultimate feeling of comfort through its unique fragrance composition, while strengthening and adding shine to your locks.

B y H E L E N B R OW N

I

n 2018, the threat of plastic pollution and its adverse effects on the environment gained huge media coverage. So much so that a ban on plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds is set to come into effect in England from next spring. But have you ever stopped to think about your period products? Those tampon applicators that you’ve been using for years are effectively giant straws. The tampon itself also contains high amounts of plastic, as do pads. Thankfully, there are brands taking a stand against period plastic, such as Mondays, a completely plastic-free, organic cotton period subscription service that will deliver products straight to your door. With a one-time registration at the click of a button, shopping for period products, has never been easier. Let alone one’s that are both good for you and the planet. It takes just minutes online to sign up and you’re set up for the long-term. You can even sync your cycle to your account so that your products arrive bang on time each month. Each Mondays box is completely customisable, allowing you to pick from menstrual pads (in two absorbencies), tampons (in two absorbencies) and panty liners.

Your monthly box is made up of your own unique combination of 25 products and is set to be delivered on your personalised subscription cycle. Easy. The time has come to go plastic-free. organicmondays.com

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

Aug19_ Beauty Notes.indd 61

61

26/07/2019 11:41

HS.indd 1

26/06/2019 10:18

HEALTH & BEAUTY • TREND CHANEL Margot Robbie; The face of Gabrielle Chanel Essence chanel.com

GIORGIO ARMANI CODE Absolu For Men, 30ml, £50.50; thefragranceshop.co.uk

MOSCHINO Toy 2, 30ml, £38; thefragranceshop.co.uk

COACH Floral Blush, 30ml, £34.50; thefragranceshop.co.uk

PARLE MOI DE PARFUM Gardens of India 79, 50ml , £98; selfridges.com

BYREDO Sundazed, 100ml, £165; byredo.com

VIKTOR&ROLF Flowerbomb Midnight, 30ml, £51; viktor-rolf.com

EDITOR’S PICK

GUESS Los Angeles, 100ml , £45; guess.com

SUMMER NOTES The new fragrances we're coveting this month

JO MALONE MEMOIZE LONDON Rose Luxuria, 100ml, £227; selfridges.com

Orange Blossom Cologne, 100ml, £98; jomalone.co.uk

DIPTYQUE STORIES No.2, 30ml, £80; elizagrace.com

THE MERCHAN OF VENICE Imperial Emerald, 100ml, £250; harrods.com

Eau des Sens Eau de Toilette, 50ml, £92; diptyqueparis.com

DIPTYQUE Essences Insensées, 100ml, £170; diptyqueparis.com

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

Aug19_Beauty_Prod.indd 63

63

26/07/2019 11:48

Some of London's finest beauty spots, reviewed by the Absolutely team

TO P T R E AT M E N T S

KARINE JACKSON

64

PERMING

KARINE JACKSON PERMING

I

Wo r d s H E L E N B R OW N

t was tough to convice people that getting a perm would be a great thing. “But your hair is already wavy,” said literally everyone. I don’t want waves though, I was after a huge bouncy mane. One quick Google search tells me that Karine Jackson is the best. So I’m here to get the supermodel curls sported by the likes of Emma Stone, Chrissy Teigan and Jaime King - all permed. It turns out those frazzled corkscrew curls of the 1980s isn’t the only way to do it.

It all begins with a consultation in which Karine deems my hair too damaged for the perming process.

I’m sent away with the Power Build treatment range from Organic Colour Systems to add strength to my weakened ends. But I’m optimistic. Two

weeks later I’m back in the chair where Karine gives me the green light. After a quick chop, Karine begins meticulously feeding small sections into Curlformers, innovative styling tools that encase the hair in a perfect spiral. Compared with the classic perming roller, these soft tubes can create a ringlet in seconds. Next, my hair is drenched in an alkaline solution to break down its natural structure, wrapped in clingfilm and set under a heat lamp for 20 minutes. Karine makes it all seem pretty straightforward. Once satisfied that the solution has done its job, the Curlformers are pulled out and my locks are given a rinse. A neutraliser is applied for five minutes to set the new curls as well as a final dose of Power Build, and I’m good to go. I’m unable to wash my hair for 48 hours so as not to disturb the curls, so two days later after a wash and a dry with the diffuser, I finally see the hair for what it is. And it’s amazing. Big and bouncy with proper ringlets that are more defined than the frizz of the 80s, it’s definitely a statement look. I’m reluctant to suggest that people get it too, only because I’m so in love with the look for myself. But iff you are tempted, you must go to Karine. Google wasn't lying when it says she really is the best. Perm from £100 24 Litchfield Street, Covent Garden.

WC2H; karinejackson.co.uk

YOUNG LDN

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

ABS_Aug19_BEAUTY REVIEWS.indd 64

26/07/2019 11:50

HEALTH & BEAUTY • REVIEWS

w

CHEMICAL PEEL

YOUNG LDN HOLLYWOOD FACIAL

Y

Wo r d s H E L E N B R OW N

oung LDN is the salon shaking up the beauty sphere. It’s a space created specifically with Gen Z and Millennials in mind and is split into various treatment areas including the Peel Bar, the Nail Lounge and the Men’s Grooming Lounge. I’m downstairs in the Skincare Lab for a Hollywood Peel, so-called for its fanbase of A-Listers - Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian are all said to swear by the treatment before hitting the red carpet. My therapist Gigi starts by cleansing the skin before applying a layer of liquid carbon over my face. This black, viscous product acts as a photoenhancer while a state-of-the-art laser delivers targeted, high-intensity pulses of light to the skin. Attracted to the carbon particles, the laser blasts away the carbon, taking with it the top layers of the epidermis and the dead skin cells and dirt that cause congestion. It’s not the most relaxing of facials, but it’s completely pain-free. There’s a burning smell as the laser is applied (I’m assured this is the product burning off and not my face), a mild heat and a loud popping as the carbon is blasted away. It’s over fairly quickly and immediately there’s a noticeable glow to my complexion. Even a few days later I’m told by observant friends that my skin looks noticeably clearer and blemish-free. With no recovery time, no uncomfortable sensations and immediate results, I’m sold. Hollywood Peel, £180; 228 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, W11; youngldn.com

CUT AND BLOWDRY

I

Wo r d s F LO R A T H O M A S

t’s far too hot in London so I arrive at the Percy Street salon glowing not in the desirable way - and about ten minutes early. Glass of ice cold champagne? Yes please. My stylist Jack Broady introduces himself with a firm, confidence-instilling handshake, and we talk about what I’m looking for (Jennifer Lawrence: brunette version).

The hair washing chairs at Charles Worthington are remarkably comfortable and I’m pleased Jack uses Pureology shampoo and conditioner - they’re vegan and sulfate free, plus the brand seems to have won every award in the book.

Hairdressers often ask me to stand up while they cut my hair because of its length and it usually detracts from the experience. Thankfully I’m allowed to remain seated, and before I know it, the hairdryer is out. Jack shows me a foolproof way to style my hair and is full of top tips for me to scribble down (don’t use too much oil, get a volumising shampoo but a hydrating conditioner).

I leave the salon with far better looking hair but, more importantly, with a bit more confidence. £75 7 Percy Street, Fitzrovia, W1T; charlesworthingtonsalons.com

YOUNG LDN

YOUNG LDN

EPILIUM AND SKIN

CHARLES Worthington

OBAGI BLUE RADIANCE PEEL

I

Wo r d s F LO R A T H O M A S

'm booked in for a dermapen appointment but my recent breakout hasn’t quite subsided and active acne is a no-no for the dermapen. As such, I turn up to Epilium and Skin not entirely sure what I’m having done. I’m asked to fill in a form on an ipad, nothing out of the ordinary, and I’m introduced to my therapist who suggests the Obaji Blue Radiance Peel. It’s a non-invasive, gentle chemical peel where an acid-base is used to literally burn off the top layer of skin. The aim is to encourage cell renewal for fresher, tighter, clearer skin.

When it comes to peels, the stronger the acid, the deeper the peel, and the longer the downtime. The Obaji Blue Radiance peel has a very low level of salicylic acid, so it’s ideal for a lunchtime treatment. First my face is cleansed of all make-up and the therapist puts vaseline on any sensitive patches. After the first layer of acid there is an intense stinging which lasts less than a minute.

Then, a second layer is applied and left on for a bit longer - about 10 minutes.

Next, any remnants of the acid are sponged off my skin and a high factor SPF is applied. This step is imperative, not least because it’s summertime, but also because post-peel skin is extremely sensitive. In the proceeding days I do experience some unpleasant peeling on my chin, which is where she focused her efforts due to my breakout, but four days later my skin is much clearer than it was before. £150

25-27 George Street, Marylebone,W1U; epilium.co.uk

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

ABS_Aug19_BEAUTY REVIEWS.indd 65

65

26/07/2019 11:50

Top rated teeth whitening treatment from just £249 That’s over 60% off from a very experienced team (offer ends 31st August 2019)

Putney Dentists is an award winning, modern Dental Practice with state of the art equipment, situated in West Putney on the corner of Upper Richmond Road and Dealtry Road.

The Practice caters for all the dental needs of you and your family and is a fully Private Dental Practice. All our Dentists have a minimum of ten years experience and are active in postgraduate training.

2A, Dealtry Road, Putney SW15 6NL Tel: 020 8785 6772

www.putneydentists.co.uk

PD.indd 1

25/07/2019 14:03

HEALTH & BEAUTY • SCENT

PERFUME

Ciao Bellisima!

Celebrating Italian citrus scents B y M I C H A E L D O N OVA N

I

n the month of August, nothing compares to the fresh, uplifting notes of citrus and no one realises citrus fragrances quite like the Italians. Perfumes that celebrate Sicilian lemons, bergamot from Calabria, mandarine, lime and grapefruit all surf the crest of warm, breezes, conveying the energy, optimism and sunny disposition associated with the landscape of the Amalfi Coast.

Perfumers around the world recognise the natural affinity that Italy has with citrus notes and there are now some outstanding scents that pay homage to legendary Italian colognes like Aqua di Parma, Aqua Di Genova and Aqua Classica and re-invent them for the 21st century.

One outstanding example is the 'Italy Collection' from Perris Monte Carl, dedicated to Capua where the finest citrus oils have been made since 1880.

Bergamotto Di Calabria contains a precious material called the 'bergamot sponge’. The extraction is done manually; the fruit is sliced in half and the pulp is removed with a special incurved knife.

Then the rind is compressed on a natural sponge in a circular motion to collect the essence. The scent accumulated is the most delicate and complex and has a floral note of jasmine. It is combined with orange flower water, Moroccan neroli, petitgrain and a dusting of pink pepper all laid over a sophisticated base of iris and musk.

Mandarino di Sicilia contains unique essential oil facets: first a delicate green mandarine is layered over a ripe, more insistent realisation, and finally a yellow mandarin, rounds out the central note. This is sunshine in a bottle with the earthy bite of geranium and heady jasmine washing over a base of cedar and musk.

Cedro di Diamante is a tribute to the unique citron fruit named after the town of Diamante which was brought to Italy by Jewish settlers in the third century BC. It is the most celebrated citrus in Calabria and is referenced by the poets Byron and

D'Annunzio. This citron is used most often when candied and added to panettone, however in the Jewish religion it still plays an important role in the autumnal Sukkot festival and to this day, in July or August, the Rabbis descend on the area of Italy known as Santa Maria del Cedro to select the finest specimens for their ceremonies.

The Cedro di Diamante has a unique quality of being a non acidic citrus that is fresh and sweet. This prized citrus essence is infused with a mix of baie rose, ginger, cardamon and Sichuan pepper, rounded off with iris and musk to create effervescent layers of aroma. This is a sparkling fragrance that dances across the skin.

Italian Citrus from D.S & Durga is a hymn to the glories of the past with a contemporary twist. It opens with an intense and striking combination of blood orange, cold pressed lemon, and Chinotto.

More citrus follows in the heart with a burst of green mandarine before violet leaf sweeps in with its woody character, resting on a bed of sweetly perfumed incense. A base of oakmoss and resins add body to Italian Citrus, a fragrance that showcases the very finest in Mediterranean citrus fruits.

Made on the Island of Capri, Mediterraneo from Carthusia is one of my favourite scents and a firm holiday favourite.

A few spritzes as you leave the plane will reinvigorate and this is the oldest fragrance recipe, dating from 1390. An elegant combination of Sicilian lemon and green tea, it is a softer, more nuanced realisation of zesty citrus notes combined with Spanish red thyme, Egyptian jasmine and wildflowers that enhance this composition and sit atop a clean base of white musk.

If you’re in need of a pick-me-up this summer take my advice and try sniffing some citrus scents. Research has found hat the smell of the vitamin C-packed fruits has been shown to boost energy and alertness, and studies have revealed that lemon scents in particular can reduce stress and leave a positive impression on others it's a win, win.

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

ABS_Aug19_Perfume.indd 67

67

26/07/2019 11:52

FS.indd 1

26/07/2019 15:21

HEALTH & BEAUTY • ACTIVE

Need to know…

FITNESS NOTES

By H E L E N B R O W N

PERFECT MATCH TWO OF THE BIGGEST POWERHOUSES IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY JOIN FORCES FOR A ONE-OF-AKIND COLLECTION

he imperatives of a good workout go like this: water, a tower, a bit of recovery time and last but certainly not least, supportive workout gear. Nothing is more distracting then clothes getting in the way. So it would make sense that lululemon and Barry’s Bootcamp - two companies with over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry - would join forces to create an activewear capsule collection that is stylish, functional and makes you feel like a superhero whilst wearing it. The pair have a lot in common. Obviously there’s the love of sweating, but it’s just as much about the community as the workout. As such, lululemon and Barry’s Bootcamp boast an impressive list of shared ambassadors and the credibility to claim that this really is one of the coolest collaborations in the industry right now. Entitled Stronger As One, the line includes everything from duffel bags to sports bras. The women’s pieces are functional and feminine, and include crop tops, plenty of mesh fabrics and low arm holes - all to provide ventilation when things heat up. The collection is available in select lululemon stores, online and in Barry’s studios, so there really are no excuses for trying it out while you’re there. See you in the Red Room.

T

barrysbootcamp.com lululemon.co.uk

C O R E S T R E N G T H DW Fitness First personal trainer Hannah Bright shares the secrets to getting a strong core this summer Q Why is core strength important?

A Our core is the foundation for every movement and a strong core helps with balance and stability. We use our core without even realising when we perform every day activities, from lifting shopping into the car to pushing a trolley around the supermarket - and of course our core is fundamental to all lifts within the gym. Focussing on your core “WE USE OUR CORE WITHOUT EVEN REALISING WHEN WE PERFORM EVERY DAY ACTIVITIES”

muscles and building them to be stronger will allow you to lift heavier and progress further with your fitness goals.

Q What are the best simple exercises for a strong core?

A Body weight exercises are great and easy to do at home.

My favourites include V-tucks, Russian twists, lying leg raises, supermans and the plank. In the gym, I would suggest cable crunches, the pallof press and hanging leg raises.

Q Can you explain two of these?

A V-tucks: Start sitting and lean back slightly with your knees bent in front. Lift feet off the ground

and extend legs forwards while lowering your upper body backwards, keep the core engaged. Return back to the starting position, keeping feet off the ground and repeat.

Plank: In a pushup position, put your forearms on the ground with your elbows lined up with your shoulders. Create a straight, strong line from head to toes and hold.

Q What else can we Do to feel confident this summer?

A Get some guidance on the right diet for your body. You can spend hours exercising but if you’re not eating correctly you won’t see the results. Stay hydrated. Posture can make a massive difference; stand tall and walk confidently.

DW FITNESS FIRST The best DW Fitness First classes for building core strength include SPARR, Body Combat, Legs Bums and Tums and 202020 Class. More information at

dwfitnessfirst.com

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

Abs_Aug19_Fitness.indd 69

69

26/07/2019 11:57

Beautiful skin from the inside Skincare innovation in a drink

Skinade has been a game changer for skin hydration “My hair and nails look healthier as well. Even my Dermatologist noticed the improvement in my skin”.

Joelle - March 2019

2 weeks to Wow! “The difference was clear after 2 weeks!

I am now in my 2nd month of Skinade and the suppleness in my skin is incredible. I have noticed a marked difference in the hydration and texture in my face. I am hooked!”

Andrea - March 2019

The brand trusted by professionals, and loved by you...

The inside-out approach to skincare is becoming an increasingly appealing and effective way to achieve visible results.

As we age, our collagen production slows down, affecting the appearance of our skin. Skinade’s active ingredients work together to produce a daily drink aimed at nourishing and supporting the skin from the inside for beautiful skin on the outside.

Love skinade “I just started my third month and see a great difference in the texture, elasticity and brightness of my skin highly recommend to everyone”.

Claudia - February 2019

skinade.com

SKINADE.indd 1

#BelieveTheHype

24/04/2019 15:40

HEALTH & BEAUTY • CYCLING

“A simple push of my boost button and the battery kicks in, leaving me sailing ahead ”

B AT T E R Y

LIFE

Electric bikes are clearly the future.

Absolutely has a test drive Words P E N D L E H A R T E

C

ommuting by bike in London is getting better all the time. There are more of us on bikes in London than ever in living memory – in some spots we are actually experiencing congestion on bike paths. New and well thought-out cycle paths appear frequently; building sites disappear to reveal spacious new cycle crossings; one-way systems are upgraded to allow cyclists to travel in both directions.

But still, not everybody is a two-weel convert. The main barriers to cycling aren’t transporting things (shopping, toddlers and general luggage can easily be accommodated on baskets and racks) but weather and distance. And while there’s nothing you can really do about weather apart from be prepared, the best way to deal with longer journeys is to give yourself a bit of an electric boost. The future of cycling in London is probably electric, on the basis that adding a rechargeable battery creates flexibility while retaining all the advantages of regular cycling in terms of fitness, traffic and pollution.

So I am giving it a go. On my new and shiny pastel blue e-bike, one of the first

things I notice is other cyclists wanting to position themselves ahead of me. Clearly, I don’t look serious. The bike is girly and heavy-looking; I am female; I am not wearing lycra. People are expecting me to be slow, and nobody wants to be stuck behind a slow cyclist in what is essentially a single-file bike path.

But as everyone knows, looks can be deceiving. Pulling away at the lights, it is me who overtakes them all: the streamlined lycra brigade on their road bikes, the Bromptons with their tiny wheels, the part-timers on their badly maintained Boris bikes. A simple push of my boost button and the battery kicks in, leaving me sailing ahead. The men on road bikes, used to overtaking everyone, are visibly offended and pedal even faster. Compared to my standard bike, it’s a whole new experience.

Volt is a London-based company that’s keen to raise the bar for ebikes and create models that are less heavy, with longer battery life and a streamlined look. While my girly Kensington model is heavier and bulkier than my regular non-electric bike, it’s very easy to ride and the constant stopping and starting that saps a London cyclist’s energy is made so much easier by the electric assist. There are three strengths, and the bike’s sensitivity means that it’s hardly even necessary to change gears as you ride. Studies show that you still use as much as 80per cent of the energy required to ride a normal bike, so this isn’t even really a lazy option. The only problem for me seems to be a frustrating inability to go faster than 18 miles per hour, when a subtle brake seems to kick in. This is of course due to legislation which – quite rightly – limits speeds for electric bikes, but it creates a strange and frustrating sense of powerlessness that contrasts with the joyful feeling of empowerment that comes with starting up so effortlessly.

Still, electric bikes are clearly the future – and they are getting lighter and more efficient almost daily.

Volt’s Step-through Kensington bike costs £1,559; voltbikes.co.uk

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

ABS_Aug19_EBIKE.indd 71

71

26/07/2019 12:03

Start Your Adventure Part of the

family

Go Anywhere... micralite.com MICRALITE.indd 1 Untitled-5 1

23/05/2019 23/05/2019 16:57 16:37

FITNESS • FOCUS

1 2

3

4

H O M E W O R K FITNESS SUPERSTORE'S HIGH CLASS HOME GYM EQUIPMENT fitness-superstore.co.uk

1 Body Power SP.IC20 Indoor Studio Cycle

Stylish and sturdy, the Body Power SP.IC20 Indoor Studio Cycle is a high performance bike designed to take your home cardio training up a level. It comes complete with an easy to read LCD screen that displays all your necessary workout information, robust design and tension-controlled resistance.

2 Schwinn Airdyne AD8

The ultimate HIIT partner, the Schwinn Airdyne AD8 is designed to allow you to work up a sweat in the comfort of your own home. Thanks to its space-saving structure and infinite resistance levels, you’re able to target all body parts whilst getting that ever-important heart rate up.

3 Matrix Fitness TF30 Folding Treadmill with XIR Console

View all your workout stats with ease via the 16” HD touchscreen, complete with 11 built-in programmes and numerous integrated entertainment apps, as you utilise its extra-thick deck and industrial-grade cushioning.

4 MAX Trainer M7

The outstanding, upgraded Bowflex M7 MAX Trainer brings you the most effective low-impact platform for max fat burn yet.

Feature-packed, the M7 boasts 11 workouts including the groundbreaking 14-minute MAX Interval™, a slim footprint, 20 electronic resistance levels and contact heart rate monitoring.

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

ABS_Aug19_ Fitness Superstore.indd 73

73

26/07/2019 12:06

Great ideas set in stone

Luxury natural stone and handmade terrazzo products 132-136 Ormside Street, London SE15 1TF. 020 7358 0160

diespekerliving.com

DIESPECKER.indd 1

26/07/2019 15:20

inside this section: DESIGNJUNCTION p82 CORALLA MAIURI CERAMICS p89 HOM E FR AGR ANC p97 I I T TA L A A N D G L A S S p 1 0 3 B R A B A N T I A’ S L E G AC Y p 1 1 1

INSPIRING S PAC E S

Beautiful homes and sophisticated designs

ART HOUSE

ROKSANDA ILINCIC

Fashion designer Roksanda Ilincic has designed and fitted a beautiful interior in a Kings Cross residential development. Her bright colour palette and carefully sourced vintage pieces create a striking, characterful look. p84

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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

ABS HOME_COVER_Mar19.indd 75

75

26/07/2019 12:27

A D AT E W I T H

DESIGN Art fairs, festivals and events for your calendar

By H E L E N B R OW N

D E S I G N J U N C TI O N

76

Now in its final weeks, this exhibition showcases how storyteller, director and editor, Stanley Kubrick created genre-defining worlds for his films and relives iconic scenes from The Shining, Eyes Wide Shut and A Clockwork Orange. Get a insight into his mind through over 700 rare objects, films, interviews and photographs.

224-238 Kensington High Street, W8; designmuseum.org

M A R K LEC K E Y: O’Magic Power of Bleakness

19-22 September KING’S CROSS

From 24 September TAT E B R I TA I N

SIXTEEN3.CO.UK

designjunction returns to King’s Cross with an unmissable line-up of the breakthrough brands shaping design today. From the world’s leading designers to undiscovered brands, the event brings together the newest and most forward-thinking furniture, lighting and accessory designs of 2019.

King’s Cross, N1C; thedesignjunction.co.uk

Until 15 September DESIGN MUSEUM

DREAM ENGLISH KID, 1964 – 1999 AD 2015 (STILL) COURTESY OF THE ARTIST © MARK LECKEY

2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY, DIRECTED BY STANLEY KUBRICK. STILL IMAGE.© WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC.

STANLEY KUBRICK: THE EXHIBITION

This ambitious, new large-scale exhibition by the Turner Prize-winning artist Mark Leckey transforms Tate Britain’s galleries with a life-size replica of a motorway bridge on the M53 in Merseyside where the artist grew up.

Expect atmospheric, spectral visions, sound and video inspired by folklore.

Millbank, SW1P; tate.org.uk

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

HOME_Aug19_Diary_.indd 76

14/08/2019 09:52

H O M E | WHAT’S ON

100% D ES I G N

OLD BAILEY, CITY OF LONDON CORPORATION

Celebrating a quarter of a century of unearthing the industry’s most influential people, 100% Design returns with thought-provoking features and the biggest names in design and architecture. This year’s show will be an unmissable event for design and innovation Hammersmith Road, W14; 100percentdesign.co.uk

NACHO CARBONELL, BIG ROUND CHANDELIER, COURTESY OF CARPENTERS WORKSHOP GALLERY

GROTTO TURMERIC, STUDIO DE SIMONE WAYLAND

18-21 September O LY M P I A L O N D O N

PA D LO N D O N 30 September - 6 October BERKLEY SQUARE

PAD presents a global roster of fairs that juxtapose contemporary and modern design, decorative arts, modern art, antiquities, and jewellery.

September welcomes the London edition, now in its 13th year, with the usual mix of 20th Century art, design and decorative arts to inspire some of the most individual interiors. Berkley Square, W1; pad-fairs.com

OPEN HOUSE LO N D O N 21-22 September VA R I O U S L O C AT I O N S

Open House London is the world’s largest architecture festival, giving free public access to over 800 buildings, walks, talks and tours over one jam-packed weekend. Home to London’s most respected architectural education team, the festival brings architects, developers, engineers, contractors and the public together to celebrate the very best in architecture, urban design, planning and infrastructure. openhouselondon.org.uk

LONDON DESIGN F E S T I VA L 14-22 September VA R I O U S L O C AT I O N S

London Design Festival celebrates and promotes London as the design capital of the world.

PAT T E R N I T Y

A F F I N I T Y I N AU TO N O M Y

P L E A S E B E S E AT E D

These are the highlights…

Life Labyrinth victoriaconnections.london

by Sony Design V&A Projects

by Paul Cocksedge Finsbury Avenue Square

londondesignfestival.com

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

HOME_Aug19_Diary_.indd 77

77

26/07/2019 12:43

Photography by Paul Craig

Engineered Walnut Pre-lacquered

Beautiful flooring, designed to last Over 100 designs | Expert advice | 20,000m 2 of stock | Express delivery SHOWROOM 20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, London, SW18 1EG 020 8871 9771

w w w.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk

NWF.indd 1

20/08/2018 13:09

H O M E | NEWS Compiled by

PENDLE HARTE

I N T H E N E WS U P DAT E S F R O M T H E I N D U S T R Y

OFF THE WALL

HOT PINK

M U R A L S WA L L PA P E R

FIRED EARTH

Murals Wallpaper has launched a collection of cut out wallpaper designs in celebration of 150 years since the birth of Henri Matisse.

The look, colour palette and design approach of the Naive Shapes collection reflects the simplicity and joyous emotion of Matisse’s work. muralswallpaper.com

Fired Earth has launched several dramatic new takes on pink tones and this Magenta Oaks paint is designed for those who like their pinks with depth and complexity. firedearth.com

WICKER WORKS

SHOP FRONT

ROCKET T ST GEORGE Fusing Vietnamese style with contemporary interiors, Rockett St George's rattan lampshade looks dramatic against dark walls and coolly stylish with pale ones. ÂŁ160 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

N OT J U ST A S H O P Not Just a Shop is the place to discover unique home, fashion, giftware and artwork by UAL students and alumni. It's a great place for exciting new design finds. notjustashop.arts.ac.uk

PAPER TRAIL JESSICA OSBORNE Jessica Osborne's first wallpaper collection is traditionally printed and draws on inspiration from the most cherished memories of her childhood.

She will soon be launching fabrics and new wallpapers too. jessicaosborne.com

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

HOME_Aug19_NEWS.indd 79

79

26/07/2019 12:45

LDF.indd 1

26/07/2019 15:57

H O M E | NEWS

HIDE AN D SLEEP

CREATIVE

S AV O I R B E D S X B I L L A M B E R G

Savoir Beds have teamed up with leather supremo Bill Amberg to reinvent the leather bed. The two new designs celebrate british craft and innovation, pioneering leather printing techniques and heritage craft . savoirbeds.com

R E V I E W Updates from the industry Compiled by

PENDLE HARTE

NG

SCIENCE CHIC FOLIO SOCIETY

This spectacular Folio Society edition of Philp K Dick's sci-fi classic Ubik is designed by La Boca, an independent design studio that specialises in illustration and image-making. foliosociety.com

COLOUR LOVE

ON THE BOT TLE SO P H I E A LDA

ERCOL

These sculptural bottle shaped vases are handmade and hand-painted by Bristol-based Sophie Alda in three beautiful options: pink, blue, and pink with pattern. The pink options both have an internal blue glaze. From ÂŁ45.

Ercol has collaborated with design agency 2LG to launch four limited Originals Love seats. Each one features seven vibrant shades, offering a fresh twist on the rainbow palette and each reflective of the 2LG studio’s distinctive take on colour. ercol.com

anewtribe.co.uk

CAPSULE COLLECTION C A R A N D 'A C H E

Nespresso may be nice, but what environmental cost comes with the capsule packaging?

Caran d'Ache has come up with an excellent solution and is recycling the aluminium into stylish 849 ballpoint pens. This season's shade is the deep green India capsule. carandache.com

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

HOME_August19_DESIGN NEWS.indd 81

81

26/07/2019 12:47

P

resenting breakthrough brands shaping design today, designjunction is a leading part of the London Design Festival. From the world’s leading designers to undiscovered brands, designjunction brings together the newest and most forward-thinking furniture, lighting and accessory designs of 2019.

This year's theme is (Re)act, calling upon its exhibitors as agents of change to react to issues, reimagine opportunities and reconnect with their audiences. Exhibitors will be creating challenging products and activations which encourage visitors to think differently about the world and spaces that they inhabit.

From 19-22 September, designjunction will reveal a stellar line up of unique experiences and breakthrough brands at London’s most creative hub in Kings Cross. Leading international names such as Icons of Denmark, Ethimo and PAD Home will exhibit alongside emerging designers and brands including bespoke furniture and cabinet maker Brook Studio and British ceramicist Emma Alington, among others.

UP THE JUNCTION HOME’S HIGHLIGHTS OF DESIGNJUNCTION

Danish design ICONS OF DENMARK/ DESIGNJUNCTION

With the purpose of enriching people’s lives at work, Icons of Denmark furniture is functional and builds an emotional connection within the workplace.

The Danish-inspired design follows the philosophy of minimalism and simplicity. iconsofdenmark.dk

Words A N N A B E L F U L L E R

82

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

ABA_aug_19_HOME DESIGNJUNCTION.indd 82

26/07/2019 14:00

H O M E | DESIGN

Shop style PAD HOME

Home to contemporary design, PAD Home are the exclusive distributors of leading lighting, wallcovering and giftware brands. New collections of luxury homewares from Graypants lighting to Mind the Gap wallcoverings will be launched at this year's show. padhome.co.uk

Table talk EMMA ALINGTON

Specialising in bespoke orders and collaborative work, Emma Alington creates high end home and tableware products. All made-to-order designs are made in house, under the watchful eye of a design team. emmaalington.co.uk

All the newest and most forward-thinking designs

Club Med ETHIMO

Ethimo is a leading designer for high-quality outdoor furnishings and decor. Taking inspiration from the warm, inviting colours of the Mediterranean, each piece is designed with comfort and practicality in mind, enhancing your al fresco lifestyle. ethimo.com

Wood works BROOK STUDIO

Established in 2017, Brook Studio designs and produces furniture with a focus on craftsmanship, material, longevity and purpose.

Founder Tim Evershed draws influence for his modern design aesthetic from Shaker and Danish mid-century furniture and sources all materials sustainably from tree-surgeons across the south of England. brook-studio.co.uk

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

ABA_aug_19_HOME DESIGNJUNCTION.indd 83

83

26/07/2019 13:35

FA S H I O N H O U S E 84

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

HOME_Aug19_ROKSANDA.indd 84

26/07/2019 13:38

H O M E | FOCUS

Living room Eros table by Angelo Mangiarotti (1970 circa), Costes café chairs by Philippe Starck from Baleri Italia (1984), Flowers by Simone Gooch, Fjura, hand-painted mural by Caroline Devernaud, and a large vintage Murano vase (circa 1950/1960s).

Kitchen island by Boffi.

HOME admires Roksanda Ilincic’s stylish interiors at Gasholders London Words P E A R L B OY D

F

ashion designer Roksanda Ilinčić has designed an interior for the penthouse at Grade IIlisted development Gasholders London in King’s Cross.

With her background in applied arts and architecture, Roksanda’s artistic aesthetic is immediately identifiable in the three-bedroom duplex.

With striking sculptural form, textural depth and unusual colour combinations, there is an elegant blend of furniture, art, ceramics, books and curiosities as the apartment reveals Roksanda’s passion for diverse disciplines in design and the arts from a female perspective.

By establishing mise-en-scènes throughout the space, Roksanda puts emphasis on women makers, both established, contemporary and emerging. Murals, artwork and textiles by Paris-based artist Caroline Denervaud act as A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_ROKSANDA.indd 85

85

26/07/2019 13:38

01

02 04 Living room Artwork by Caroline Devernaud hung above the FOA Sofa by Christophe Delcourt for Collection Particulière with a Roksanda bag on top of it.

To the left of the sofa is a Nickel floor lamp with spherical base and to the right is a François Châtain Floor Lamp.A plain, hand knotted rug is surrounded by Pierre Jeanneret chairs (1950s for Chandigarh, India) and a yellow Fibreglass chair.

Paolo Piva Alanda coffee table for B&B Italia (Italy 1980s) is topped with maquette sculptures and a Roksanda X Linck Ceramics vase commissioned by Nick Vinson for MatchesFashion.com.

04 01 Master bedroom Skin lamp by Eny Lee Parker, Três Pés Armchair by Lina Bo Bardi made in Brazil (1951), Roksanda dress and slippers, and Kvadrat curtain.

02 Study 1950s Italian red lamp, Latonda chair by Mario Botta (late 80s), Table en Forme libre by Charlotte Perriand, Stool by Stephane Parmentier for Giobagnara, Cylindrical vase, Maquette sculpture, Glassware - Alpha by Hans Harald Rath for Lobemyr.

03 Master bedroom Custom made bedding, sheets and pillow slips by Ege of Germany, Glassware: Alpha by Hans Harald Rath for Lobemyr (1952), Roksanda slippers, custom coloured TriAngle table by Aldo Bakker, Vanessa bed by Tobia Scarpa (originally for Simon Collection), Charlotte Perriand Mini Potence Pivotante lights, and Alana Wilson ceramic vase from Australia.

86

backdrops for furniture by Lina Bo Bardi and Charlotte Perriand. Objet and ceramics include works by Australian ceramicist Alana Wilson, Berlin-based potter Christine Roland and Londoner Annette Lantsoght, with a Cordemeijer Cleopatra daybed in the Sun Room And Lena Rewell’s merino wool blankets.

Postmodern and mid-century modern pieces, a coat rack from the Netherlands, a dining table

by Angelo Mangiarotti and Pierre Jeanneret chairs from the 1950s are carefully sourced finds. Considered lighting appears in the form of a graphic Francois Châtain Floor Lamp, which contrasts with an undulating, bulbous ceramic sculpture by Enylee Parker and twisting ribbon lamps by Claire Norcross.

Memorable touches include handpicked scents by Lyn Harris of Perfumer H and curated literature from some of Roksanda’s closest confidants and inspirations including Eva Rothschild, Marina Abramovic, Alice Rawsthorn and Valeria Napoleone. Textural bindings and covers include retrospectives too by women

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

HOME_Aug19_ROKSANDA.indd 86

26/07/2019 13:39

H O M E | FOCUS

The apartment reveals Roksanda’s passion for diverse disciplines in design that inspire Roksanda’s work; Phylidia Barlow, Roni Horn, Barbara Hepworth, Anni Albers, Isa Gensken and Marlene Dumas. On bedside tables, there are texts by Patti Smith, Nell Dunn and Joan Didion, bedtime reading for the woman who dreams big in Roksanda’s world.

Roksanda worked with Suzanne Wallgren on a bespoke garden design for the rooftop of the apartment, selecting a striking Pallas Table designed by Konstantin Grcic and Gitta Gschventer’s concrete stools cast from moulds based on paper bags to inject further personality into the space. Inside foliage, plants and florals

by Simone Gooch of Fjura provide moments of still life.

As her first foray into commercial interior design and curation, Roksanda called upon close friend Nick Vinson of Vinson & Co to help source and curate a vision for the space, the pair have previously collaborated on various projects, 03

including the limited edition collection of Modernist-style vases by Danish maker Linck’s Ceramics, decorated with Roksanda’s abstract prints inspired by Le Corbusier.

Roksanda Ilinčić said: “To be able to revisit a neighbourhood that felt so familiar to me and which now hosts the institution which moulded me as a designer, Central Saint Martins, felt like an exciting opportunity. Architecture, art and design are disciplines which consistently inspire my own collections. This project has created the opportunity to expand my own ideas about creating a true reflection of my own aesthetic, beyond fashion.”

 The Penthouse sits over three floors, with a double-height sunken courtyard garden and feature staircase providing access to a private roof garden offering views of Coal Drops Yard; the apartment is available to buy fullyfurnished for £7.75m (or unfurnished for £7.5m). gasholderslondon.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_ROKSANDA.indd 87

87

26/07/2019 13:57

designjunction

19–22 September 2019 King’s Cross, London N1C

Unique experiences and breakthrough brands at London’s most exciting creative hub thedesignjunction.co.uk #WhereDesignMeets

DJ.indd 1

26/07/2019 15:19

H O M E | CERAMICS

Careful Craft

Coralla Maiuri’s new collection is inspired by the sensitivity of experimentation Words A N N A B E L F U L L E R

C Each handcrafted ceramic is a symbol of Coralla’s work, charming and fun

oralla Maiuri lends her sensitivity to the creation of ceramics and porcelains that seem dreamy and familiar at the same time. Memories of a rural past intersect with beauty to create something unique.

Her experimentation of materials and decorations never stops in a swirl of creativity.

Each object is entirely hand-decorated. Her latest collection demonstrates her expertise with ceramics techniques while bringing forward her experimental signature style.

Coralla expresses her artistic freedom by using opposing surfaces that playfully reflect light and dimension. Hand-painted details in gold give sophisticated elegance to the pieces. All the new pieces are made in her artisan workshops in Italy and combine the traditional crafts of ceramics and painting to create delicate tea-sets among vases and mugs.

Her newest collection was inspired by the ritual of tea as an answer to our need for a private moment during the day. Coralla’s stylish collection of decorative tea sets is a result of fun experimentation with colour and materials. The collection, available in

seven varying colours and decors, was designed for each set to evoke different emotions.

Blues and light blues, rich in pearls and madrepores reflect the calmness of a deep sea. Reds for lava and Obsidian, loaded with positive energy. The same for the yellow iris, solar and bright. And the green, memory of ancient marble.

In the collection, Coralla Maiuri develops her stellar themes, drawing inspiration from simple Italian artisanal pottery. Each hand-crafted set is decorated with rich, golden tones inspired by Roman Renaissance and Baroque art adn by celestial orbits, whose gravitationally curved trajectories drive the lines and shapes of each painted stroke. Each hand-crafted ceramic is a symbol of Coralla’s work, charming and fun.

As an artist, Coralla Mairui exhibits self-expression and free experimentation through each collection, making all of her art unique. Each tea-set consists of two dishes with different sizes and functions, a tray and sweet holder, a teapot and a tea-cup with a very delicate handle. Tea sets designed and decorated by Maiuri bring us to another world, made of quiet and beauty. corallamairui.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_CORALLA MAIURI.indd 89

89

26/07/2019 13:58

TK.indd 1

16/04/2019 14:57

H O M E | TREND

MY FURNITURE

MADE

Alice armchair in blush pink, £479 my-furniture.com

Diego pendant in tonal pink, £20 made.com

AUDENZA Pink Faux Monstera Potted Plant £58 audenza.com

SWEETPEA & WILLOW Vintage Rose Berkeley Armchair £1,425 sweetpeaandwillow.com

FRENCH BEDROOM COMPANY Matte pink angled table lamp, £75 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

THINK PINK

MADE Maringa hand towels in plaster pink, £15 made.com

Everything's rosy with these new pink pieces

By P E N D L E H A R T E CULT FURNITURE Veronique Copper Metal Bar Stool, £89 cultfurniture.com

HARRIET HARE Plain jacquard reversible dusty pink duvet cover, £65 harriethare.com

KARLSSON Origami wall clock,£38 redcandy.co.uk

DARTINGTON CRYSTAL Juno tall vase in pink, £30 dartington.co.uk

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

ABS_AUG19_PinkProducts.indd 91

91

26/07/2019 13:45

92

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

HOME_AbsAug19_LibertySweden.indd 92

26/07/2019 13:55

H O M E | INSPIRATION

N O R T H E R N

LIGHT A year-long exhibition puts Sweden’s Tjolöholm Castle in the spotlight for its breathtaking Liberty interior Words P E A R L B OY D

S

ituated on a peninsula in the Kungsbacka Fjord on the Kattegat Coast, Tjolöholm Castle lies hidden behind windswept cliffs and highland peaks, its gardens blending seamlessly into the adjoining archipelago countryside. Step inside and Tjolöholm is an ode to Liberty, showcasing a turn-ofthe century interior co-designed by Liberty craftsmen and the castle’s pioneering owner, Blanche Dickson.

Inspired by the progressive Arts and Crafts style she had seen at Liberty during a trip to England, Dickson employed Liberty craftsmen to move in and replicate the iconic aesthetic over two years, completing the commission in 1904. Choosing a Tudor interior characterised by symmetry, Dickson commissioned everything from a sculpted oak staircase featuring finely carved animals to bespoke bathroom suites and filled rooms with fashion-forward

This is the world’s most well-preserved Liberty interior oriental ceramics, richly printed fabrics and woven rugs, closely mimicking the Regent Street store. As Karin Kvicklund, Head of Culture at Tjolöholm Castle, said: “Tjolöholm Castle might be the only house in the world with such an outstanding and well-preserved original interior from Liberty.”

This year, housed within the castle,a year-long Bohemian Luxury exhibition features a collection of Liberty print clothing from Dickson’s era, donated by the Fashion and Textile Museum. The exhibition also includes a working shop, selling pieces that would have been found at Liberty London during the period.

To coincide with the launch of the exhibition, Liberty Fabrics will be celebrating the brand’s rich heritage with the introduction of the new Classics 40th Year Anniversary Collection, championing the most iconic and instantly recognisable prints from

Liberty Fabrics since 1979. Encompassing both studio designs and archival finds, the Classics Collection is a selection of 15 of the most popular heritage print designs of the past four decades, recoloured into 40 new editions. A selection of these prints is available to view in Tjolöholms as well as the Regent Street store.

In 1906, just two years after the castle’s completion, Dickson passed away while sailing in the Indian Ocean – but her presence lives on at Tjolöholm. Thanks to her, the castle is now one of the greatest examples of the Liberty aesthetic in the world.

TJ O LÖ H O LM CA STLE The exhibition runs until 30 December 2019, with tickets available at tjoloholm.se/en The castle is about a 35 minute drive from Gothenburg airport.

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

HOME_AbsAug19_LibertySweden.indd 93

93

26/07/2019 13:56

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

HB.indd 1

27/06/2019 14:24

H O M E | TREND

FRENCH BEDROOM CO. Prairie Floral Bed Runner in Sage, £165 frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

MARIMEKKO Eläköön Elämä Plate, £21 royaldesign.co.uk

BRABANTIA 1.4L Patrice Storage Canister, £10.95 philipmorrisdirect.co.uk

MIND THE GAP Floral Painting Dark Wallpaper, £150 clippings.com

LISA CORTI Cotton Cloth Nizam Mustard, £158 lisacorti.com

FREDA Set of 2 patterned porcelain mugs, £6 habitat.co.uk

FLO R AL SETTING Give your interiors an update with floral patterns

INES COLE Liberty Print Armchair £POA inescole.com

By P E N D L E H A R T E MIND THE GAP Florilegium Water Lilies Wallpaper, £150 mindtheg.com

COLE AND SON Wisteria Wallpaper, £85 designerwallpapers.co.uk

XXXX XXXXX xxxxxxxx xxx xx x xt £145 xxxxxxxxxxx.co.uk

CHASE AND WONDER The Flower Lady Scented Candle, £32 chaseandwonder.com

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

ABS_AUG19_HOME Products_Florals.indd 95

95

26/07/2019 14:03

Patios & Brick Work | Fencing & Decking Summer Houses Victorian Pathways and much more

The complete kitchen service...

The complete kitchen service...

The complete complete kitchen kitchen service... service...

The

...from a hinge to a complete makeover ...from hinge to a complete 100’saof Worktops l 1000’s of makeover Doors ...from a hinge hinge tototoa complete makeover doorreplacement replacement lmade made measure service l l worktops door l measure service worktops ...from a to a complete makeover 100’s of Worktops l 1000’s of Doors appliances l sinks and taps l drawer replacement

Kitchen & Bathroom | Fitting Kitchen & Bathroom CAD Design | Bespoke Wardrobes | Electrical & Plumbing phillip@acadia-homes-gardens.co.uk www.acadia-homes-gardens.co.uk

CALL NOW FOR A FREE CONSULTATION 0208 037 8615

appliances l lsinks andto taps l drawer replacement door replacement lmade made to measure l l worktops door replacement measure service worktops |and 1000’s Doors 100’s ofservice Worktops 100’s ofof Worktops l access 1000’s of Doors improved storage solutions improved storage and solutions appliances ll sinks sinks andtaps taps laccess drawer replacement appliances and l drawer replacement door replacement l made to measure service l l worktops door replacement l made to measure service worktops door refurbishment service door refurbishment service improved storage and solutions improved storage and access access solutions appliances ll sinks sinks andtaps taps l drawer drawer replacement appliances and Instant hot waterl taps fittedreplacement door refurbishment service door refurbishment service The Kitchen Doctor's supplies improved storage and solutions improved storagebespoke and access accessservice solutions Instant hotbespoke water tapsservice fiof tted Thefits Kitchen Doctor’s supplies and doorrefurbishment refurbishment service door service and a comprehensive range components to

refurbishment The Kitchendoor Doctor's bespoke service service supplies fits a comprehensive range offitted components Instant hot water taps The Kitchen Doctor’s bespoke service supplies and give your kitchen arange new lease of and fits a comprehensive of components to The Kitchen Doctor's bespoke service supplies to give your kitchen a new oflife. life. fiKitchen ts a comprehensive range service oflease components The Doctor’s bespoke supplies and give your kitchen a new lease of life. and fits a comprehensive range of components to to agive your kitchen850000 a newof lease of life.

01689 fi01689 ts comprehensive range components 850000 give your kitchen a anew lease ofoflife. to give your kitchen new lease life. chris@thekitchendoctor.com

01689 850000 chris@thekitchendoctor.com 01689www.thekitchendoctor.com 850000 www.thekitchendoctor.com chris@thekitchendoctor.com 01689 850000 chris@thekitchendoctor.com 01689 850000 serving London and the South-East for 25 years Serving London and the South-East since 1984 www.thekitchendoctor.com chris@thekitchendoctor.com www.thekitchendoctor.com chris@thekitchendoctor.com serving London and the South-East for 25 years Servingwww.thekitchendoctor.com London andwww.thekitchendoctor.com the South-East since 1984 serving London and the South-East for 25 years

serving London and the South-East for 25 years B Serving London and the South-East since 1984

KitchenDoctorS13.indd 1 KitchenDoctorS13.indd 1 KitchenDoctorS13.indd 1 25/04/2019 11:57

AHAG.indd 1

to e ad m ice S o ET ch r IN ur lou B o A y co C in nd KE sure le a PO ea sty ES m of 20/10/2015 11:36 20/10/2015 11:36 20/10/2015 11:36

Energy Efficient, Timber Window and Door Specialists Beautiful timber windows and doors manufactured with the modern benefits of double glazing, while preserving the character of your home.

Trusted trader

• PCL HALVES/QUARTERS.indd 3

01344 868 668 www.sashwindow.com

26/07/2019 16:05

H O M E | SCENT

1

M A K E S S C E N T S

1

WAY LY R I C A L ASHLEY & CO

Ashley & Co refer to their candles as waxed perfume – and these scents are intense and intriguing. The New Zealand brand's fragrance diffusers offer an alternative scent source – and they look stylish too. £44 ashleyandco.co

MAKE YOUR HOME A FRAGRANT SPACE

2

I N B LO O M ESPELMA

2

Espelma's natural wax candles come in refillable handmade Murano glass jars. Scents include Smoky Tea, Fig Tree, Summer Garden and Scentless. £86 libertylondon.com

3

J U S T S AY Y E S A N YA H I N D M A R C H

Anya Hindmarch's candles are inspired by her own scent memories and new for this summer is Yes!, the sun lotion candle. Because the smell of sun cream epitomises everything we love about the season. £50 anyahindmarch.com

4

3

FRESH AND WILD OV E R O S E

4

5

Parisian perfume house Overose's Anamorphine is the sent of peonies, raspberry lemonade, rosewater and a dash of kafir lime. Refreshing, summery and stylish, these are the ultimate fashion candles. £46 overose.com

5

V I VA I TA L I A A C Q U A D I PA R M A

Acqua di Parma's first complete Home collection comprises candles and room diffusers. Five new fragrances are designed to light up the home with pure Italian elegance.

Diffuser £60 acquadiparma.com

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

HOME_Aug19_HOME FRAGRANCE.indd 97

97

26/07/2019 14:07

H O M E | FOCUS

Out of Africa

Hadeda’s distinctive style comes from fusing British and African aesthetics Words E V E H E R B E R T

H Outdoor furniture pieces with creative design and stories to tell

adeda is a UK-based lifestyle label collaborating with talented artisans across Africa to bring you one-of-a-kind ceramic, art, furniture and fashion pieces. Named after the characterful South African ibis loved for its birdsong, the brand was founded by Kate Kindersley and celebrates the enduring heritage of craft over mass production.

Up first? A curation of breathtaking outdoor furniture pieces, traditionally handwoven by villagers in rural Malawi. Soon to follow will be one-off pottery designs, mohair rugs and luxurious linen clothing from Karu, MADWA, Pezula Interiors, Coral & Hive, Indego, Clementina Ceramics, African Jacquard, Design Afrika, Tensira, Okapi and Sidai. All with their own creative design and their individual story to tell.

Kate says: “Growing up between the UK and South Africa, and with a Capetonian mother, I spent some of my most treasured years exploring the African continent. I feel such a connection to it, not only by blood but through a lifetime of memories: the distinctive smell of fynbos or the call of a Hadeda will always take me right back to my childhood.

I’ve wanted to share my passion for Africa, its people and their exceptional talents for a while, and I’ve finally found that opportunity in my new lifestyle label, Hadeda.” hadeda.co.uk

98

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

HOME_Feb19_Hadeda.indd 98

26/07/2019 14:16

BARTHOLOMEW.indd 1

26/07/2019 15:18

C O A S T

C H I C

Everybody’s moving to Margate for the affordable Victorian stock. HOME admires this recently refurbished terraced house Words P E N D L E H A R T E

100

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

HOME_Aug19_MULBERRY COTTAGES.indd 100

26/07/2019 14:27

H O M E | FOCUS

Margate

TOP 3

T

he Turner Contemporary art gallery opened in 2011 and Tracey Emin recently moved back to her home town to set up a foundation: Margate is very much on the map.

Londoners have been moving here for the affordable property, the thriving art scene and the quirky boutiques and bars, and what used to be a rundown seaside town is now a stylish destination.

Westbrook Bay House is a good example of the area’s fine Victorian housing stock, renovated with a contemporary aesthetic designed to appeal to weekending visitors.

It’s a large house, cleverly arranged to provide five bedrooms with the entire lower ground floor knocked through to create a large open plan kitchen/dining and living area with access to a decked garden. There are bay windows at the front to the street and a comfortable sitting area features Ercol daybeds and mid-century shelving displaying plants, battered old Penguins and shell collections that nod to the beachside location. Next to the original Victorian fireplace are artfully placed pieces of driftwood and an outsize potted cactus; on the walls are framed posters and a deer’s skull and antlers.

Interior design-wise, we’re very much in instagram territory, and the house has all the hallmarks of somewhere that’s designed to be photographed. There are Anglepoise lamps, plants, science lab dining chairs, round mirrors and filament bulbs. The kitchen is painted black and the units are wooden, the floor polished concrete and the shelves filled with enamelware.

Upstairs, bedrooms are all white walls, bare floorboards and pebble-painted original doors, with comfortable beds and crisp waffle sheets. Classic black radiators add style, and the bathroom features a large free-standin rolltop, claw-footed tub as well as a spacious and efficient shower. Staying here is like stepping inside a photoshoot, in a good way.

The house has all the hallmarks of somewhere designed to be photographed

D R E A M L A N D M A R G AT E Stylishly refurbished, Dreamland has all the favourite rides including the ferris wheel and the listed wooden rollercoaster. dreamland.co.uk

S H E L L G R OT TO Margate’s Shell Grotto is one of the world’s great mysteries. Who built it and why? An underground network of tunnels is covered with 2000 sq ft of shells. shellgrotto.co.uk

TURNER C O N T E M P O R A RY This stylish gallery opened in 2011 and is set to host the 2019 Turner Prize this autumn. turnercontemporary.org

Westbrook Bay House is available for rent through mulberrycottages.com Pricing from: 3 nights £844; 7 nights £1125 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_MULBERRY COTTAGES.indd 101

101

26/07/2019 14:27

Monica Galetti, chef

C R E A T I N G

B E A U T I F U L

K I T C H E N S

S I N C E

1 9 8 1

Call 020 7486 1248 to make an appointment at your nearest showroom 120 Wigmore Street, London W1U 3RU 509 Uxbridge Road, Pinner HA5 4JS 77-79 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield HP9 1LX

www.halcyon-interiors.co.uk | info@halcyon-interiors.co.uk HALCYON.indd 1

27/06/2018 16:22

H O M E | DESIGN

GL ASS SYSTE M Absolutely celebrates Iittala’s new dining collection, Raami Words E V E H E R B E R T

I Iittala’s products are made to be passed through generations

ittala’s new Raami dining collection designed by Jasper Morrison introduces a new limited-edition recycled glass tumbler. Made from recycled glass from Iittala glass factory, the piece contains no new raw materials.

The Iittala glass factory is one of the world’s first industrial manufacturers that have created tumblers solely from the waste glass.

The calm, cool colour and unique pattern of the new tumbler casts a beautiful shadow and invites touch. Its raw material is crafted from with leftover pieces from mouth-blown Alvar Aalto vases and bowls as well as coloured tumblers. Although the tumbler has been given its own unique colour, it fits in perfectly with the rest of the Raami collection, promoting a good atmosphere at

the table from morning to night, in every occasion.

Waste glass at the Iittala glass factory is produced from the pieces that did not meet the brand’s strict quality requirements. The glass is firstly remoulded and then post processed to be used as a raw material for new items or recycled to manufacture insulation material.

Recycled glass saves both energy and natural resources. Waste glass products are equally durable as those made of original material. In the future, Iittala aims to utilise the majority of waste glass from its factory in the production of new glassware.

This target will be reached in the coming summer for the clear glass products.

The Iittala glass factory has always been a pioneer in the development of new methods for manufacturing glass through the improvement of established practices and new innovations. Iittala’s expertise and understanding of glass as a material is unique in the world.

Iittala believes that people should have the right to expect their designs to last a lifetime. Iittala’s products are made to be used everyday and passed through generations. Sustainability means durable design, care for the environment, people and constant development of the products and services.

The great example of Iittala’s initiative is the new Vintage service that allows consumers to buy and sell second-hand Iittala tableware. Products that do not meet Iittala’s resale criteria will recycled. The service was launched in spring 2019 in three stories in Finland and the aim is to bring it to other countries in the future.

Raami collection, from £16 iittala.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_IITTALA RAAMI.indd 103

103

26/07/2019 14:29

18—21 September 2019 Olympia London

Celebrating 25 years of inspirational interior design

100design25 100percentdesign designlondon Part of:

Find out more and register at: 100percentdesign.co.uk 100DESIGN.indd Design 1 86768148_100% adverts_210x297.indd 1

23/07/2019 16:16 13:18 28/06/2019

H O M E | DESIGN

D E S I G N E D F O R

L I V I N G Looking for designer home fittings?

Tomas Kitchen Living has bespoke offerings Words A N N A B E L F U L L E R

T Clean lines, timeless style and tactile design details

omas Hinton has created arange of freestanding cabinets and tables to extend his designer homewa re s ra nge.

Collectively known as CASE, freestanding cabinets share many of the design features and characteristics of the kitchens for which he is known. The same clean-lines, timeless style, tactile design details, great colours and uncompromising quality of materials and artistry are all there. While they are often ordered as part of a kitchen project, they also work very well as stand-alone pieces in many interior settings. Tomas aims to deliver a living space suited to your needs. The design team created the CASE collection with modular design in mind, allowing your furniture to grow with you. Made from solid wood, five beautiful abstract colours and a neat range of inserts are combined to create wonderfully individual pieces. The featured fitting, BoxCASE is derived from a series of standardised cube forms, allowing everyone to customise their home. Likewise, the SideCASE, available in a range of colours and configurations can be made to ensure all requirements are accommodated.

Whether you are looking for fabulous free-standing cabinets or chic storage solutions, these luxury bespoke furnishings come together in a live design session where a professional team will brainstorm and work with you to achieve the perfect living space. tomas-kitchen-living.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_TOMAS KITCHEN.indd 105

105

26/07/2019 14:32

Enhancing the kerb appeal of the finest homes for over 30 years London Door Company has become synonymous with beautiful, handcrafted doors, that not only add value to our clients’ properties but are also exceptionally secure, providing total peace of mind. Each door is specified and installed by experienced, time-served craftsmen using the highest quality materials, including premium locking systems and exquisite ironmongery.

For a FREE brochure or a design visit go to LONDONDOOR.CO.UK or call 0845 646 0690 BATTERSEA SHOWROOM 153 St Johns Hill, London SW11 1TQ

PENGE SHOWROOM 67 High Street, Penge SE20 7HW

A member of BHID Group

LDC.indd 1 Jun_AbsolutelyLifestyle_D-ABSL01.indd 1

22/05/2019 16/05/2019 11:38 15:32

H O M E | DESIGN

F U L LY C O O R D I N AT E D COLLECTION

D R E A M H O M E

Style the house of your dreams with BoConcept, the premium retail lifestyle brand and interior design service

B

oConcept design, produce and sell a range of contemporary Danish design furniture, accessories and lighting for the living room, dining room, bedroom, home-office and outdoor spaces. Their furniture stores offer everything within modern design ranging from designer sofas and armchairs through to practical wall units and functional TV units.

They also help their customers create a personal home with a free comprehensive in-home or in-store Interior Design service.

YOUR STYLE

BoConcept's Interior Designers incorporate interior decoration ideas, home accessories and more to craft a unique style for your home. They can help you in creating a Nordic mood in the dining room with Scandinavian style sideboards, elegant

dining tables and dining chairs - or a hotel vibe in your living room with sofas, recliner armchairs and daybeds in leather, velvet or your preferred fabric.

CUSTOMISE YOUR INTERIOR

When browsing through BoConcept's designer furniture, there is a whole line of unseen possibilities behind everything you see. You can create your very own unique home with a wide range of customisation available for each product. Customise every detail with BoConcept's staggering selection of high-quality fabrics and a vast range of finishes. With more than 140 finishes for sofas, dining chairs and bed headboards.

As well as a variety of sizes and options across wall cabinets, wardrobes, dining and coffee tables - the combinations are almost endless. There's no doubt you will be spoilt with choice.

BoConcept’s world famous international designers work closely together to create a totally coordinated look across their collection of furniture and home accessories. All their products suit a large variety of moods and express current trends.

FREE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE

Whether you need some advice furnishing your entire home or would like some inspiration as to which sofa will work in your living room, BoConcept's team of highly experienced interior designers are ready to help you create a unique home that matches your personal style. Perhaps you want to create a Nordic mood in the dining room with Scandinavian style sideboards, elegant dining tables and dining chairs - or a hotel vibe in your living room with sofas, recliner armchairs and daybeds in leather, velvet or your preferred fabric. BoConcept's design team will advise you in store, or come to your home, take measurements of your space, listen to your needs suggesting fabrics and finishes and produce full 3D renderings showing you how your space could look.

WA L L PA P E R S , C U R TA I N S , R U G S & HOME ACCESSORIES

In addition to BoConcept selection of Danish furniture and accessories, they offer a coordinated collection of contemporary bespoke curtains and blinds combined with a measuring and fitting service. To complete your stylish home BoConcept have many Visit one of their stores and see their wide range of multifunctional design furniture, and get professional advice about modern living and interior design. Stores located at Battersea Reach, Finchley Road, Notting Hill, Tottenham Court Road, Kingston, Guildford and now Westfield London or online at boconcept.com

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

HOME_Aug19_ADV BO CONCEPT.indd 107

107

26/07/2019 14:35

FINISH LINE

This stylish south London kitchen is both practical and cutting edge. Graham Robinson from Halcyon Kitchens talks us through it Words E V E H E R B E R T

108

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

HOME_Aug19_ HALCYON.indd 108

26/07/2019 14:37

H O M E | KITCHEN DESIGN

G

raham Robinson worked closely with the owners and architect to establish the ideal layout for this new kitchen and they decided on the vast statement island and wall units that hide a host of useful appliances and storage space.

‘The clients Sue and Niall wanted a bold look for the kitchen so using the same statement finish in the main kitchen space seemed like a natural solution,’ explains Graham. ‘Quite uniquely the doors, surface and panels all feature Alno Star Dur in Titanium, which is a textured laminate. We had previously displayed a similar kitchen with this finish at the Grand Designs Show and it proved very popular; I thought it would work well in this open plan kitchen and living area.’

To keep the main kitchen looking streamlined, all appliances were hidden in the sleek titanium units, except for the handleless grey Miele ovens, which blend into the background. ‘We were given plans for the new extension early on and we knew the main kitchen area had to work alongside the dining area on one side and main living area which is accessed via a few steps. To add a pop of colour to the sober scheme, a vibrant orange painting

by Hannah Tilson works its magic above the dining table.’

Graham says: ‘The owners wanted to have a kitchen that works for all types of cooking as Niall is a keen chef and the couple entertains a lot. We quickly came up with the island that features five different cooktops and efficient extraction.

THE SPACE FEELS WELCOMING – AS WELL AS DESIGN-LED Behind is an area for storage, refrigeration and two dishwashers, while semi-hidden is an area for countertop appliances and additional sink, boiling tap and fridge.’

The lighting is carefully considered. ‘As well as recessed spots, the owners wanted to place LED strips in ceiling and floor strips that follow the ceiling step. The strips are all RGB and white channels and we can mix the colours pretty much infinitely.’

A statement kitchen needs to feel welcoming as well as design-led. Graham explains that adding texture helps to make the kitchen feel warm and tactile.

‘And while using unique statement art creates an amazing atmosphere, putting useful and decorative items on display in open shelving gives the room a stylish yet homely touch.’ halcyoninteriors.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_ HALCYON.indd 109

109

26/07/2019 14:38

S RE R O FE ST OF IN E K NC AS INA F R

FO

Affordable choice.

Naturally.

- Stunning solid oak kitchens made in the UK - Choose from the complete range of Farrow & Ball paint colours, to ďŹ nish the look of your kitchen - The largest range of solid timber worktops in the UK

www.solidwoodkitchencabinets.co.uk 70 CHALK FARM ROAD, CAMDEN, LONDON, NW1 8AN

Fabric Mag 8th March.indd 1 DOS.indd 1

02074 857203

13/03/2019 09:06:20 21/03/2019 17:04

H O M E | HISTORY

The Legacy BRABANTIA Words

THE 2019 PATRICE COLLECTION

The Patrice design was produced in 1969 and became a 70s icon

PENDLE HARTE

I

N 1919, Brabantia started out as van Elderen & Co in Aalst, North Brabant, Netherlands - ‘Brabantia’ comes from ‘Brabant’. The first products produced were milk cans, jugs, sieves and funnels. It now sells its products in more than 12,000 stores in 90 countries and employs 1000 people. The range of products produced includes kitchen utensils, clothes storage and organisers, compostable bags and chef sets.

Brabantia has over 1000 products in the range.

In 1930, Brabantia diversified into radio casings for Philips and in 1945, after the war, Brabantia helped to recycle old condensed milk tins into cups and oil drums into pots and pans. 1952 was a landmark year for Brabantia: it produced its first range of pedal bins with a design that meant it was virtually silent when used. Some 80 million plus bins have been sold since their introduction.

The Patrice design, with brown and cyclamen flowers on an orange backdrop, was produced in 1969 and became a 70s icon. The original flowers were hand-cut from paper, giving the design a unique and rare artisan touch.

Patrice is one of the most loved designs ever – EARLY BRABANTIA IRONING BOARDS AND STEP LADDERS

1960S BRABANTIA DESIGN

five million Patrice pedal bins alone were sold during the decade when the print was produced.

Brabantia launched the Touch Bin in 1999; most Dutch people have probably had one at home at some point, and in 2017 came the Bo Touch Bin in 36 and 60L variations, the 36L can be separated into 3 distinct compartments so that you can separate your waste easily. The 60L can be separated into two.

In 2019, Brabantia is celebrating its centenary year with a relaunched Patrice collection that includes original favourites such as the roll top bread bin and the small canister as well as new models such as the Bo Touch bin in a Patrice design. brabantia.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

HOME_Aug19_ BRABANTIA_Legacy.indd 111

111

26/07/2019 14:39

0800 860 0916

www.pvad.co.uk

PVA.indd 1

22/09/2017 16:43

W W W. P V A D . C O . U K 0800 8600 0916

PVA.indd 2

22/09/2017 16:43

JUMEIRAH.indd 1

24/06/2019 09:26

TRAVEL

RIDING THE WAVES MAURITIUS

This month we're spoiled with boat rides, dolphin sightings and spectacular cuisine at two magnificent resorts in Mauritius. beachcombertours.uk

The Forest of Dean 116 • Mauritius 120 • UK getaway 128 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

ABS_Aug19_Travel_Opener.indd 115

115

26/07/2019 14:40

Once used as a royal hunting ground, the ancient woodland is now home to wild boar

FOREST OF DEAN

THE FOREST OF DEAN IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Action HEROES An energetic break in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is the perfect family getaway

Wo r d s A M A N DA C O N S TA N C E

116

T

he Forest of Dean is one of the surviving ancient woodlands of England. Once used exclusively as a royal hunting ground by the Tudor kings, the modern forest is now part of Gloucestershire, sitting between the Rivers Severn and Wye. Made up of 42 square miles of mixed woodland – particularly oak, beech and sweet chestnut, the Forest of Dean is now home to wild boar and was the setting for much of the final instalment of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter books.

STAY

We stayed at the Tudor Farmhouse hotel in Clearwell. Formerly a working farm, it has been converted into a boutique hotel by Hari and Colin Fell who bought the cluster of farmhouses and surrounding 14 acres of grassland in 2003. The welcome signs of an upscaled hotel are in evidence – roll-top baths, Bramley bath products, waffle gowns, Farrow and Ball neutrals, Nespresso coffee machines and super-fast Wifi. But each room has been created with such individual character – flashes of exposed stonework, ancient beams and tartan wool blankets –

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

ABS_Aug19_FOREST OF DEANL.indd 116

26/07/2019 14:48

TRAVEL • ADVENTURE

WYE VALLEY

T

he Wye Valley is known for its limestone gorges, caves and dense native woodland. The designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty stretches from just south of Hereford to Chepstow. When the Normans conquered the area in the 11th century they built castles in Monmouth and Chepstow; in the 12th century, Cistercian monks founded Tintern Abbey, an outstanding example of Gothic architecture later immortalised by William Wordsworth.

A MOMENT OF CALM IN PUZZLEWOOD

PLAY

HEART-RACING MOUNTAIN BIKING

that it is both unstuffy and stylish. We had two bedrooms across the corridor from each other – the children’s room included a hidden nook with exposed beams and a tucked-away bunk bed. Just the sort of place you want to sleep when you are eight years old. And our bed was one of the most comfortable we have ever slept in.

The restaurant at the Tudor Farmhouse is something of a foodie destination. The head chef is committed to using local and seasonal ingredients, most are sourced within a 20-mile radius. We found it a little bit too ‘fine dining’ for us; our 15-year-old was aghast at a goat’s cheese mousse and the service was a little rough around the edges but the Wye asparagus with truffled duck yolk emulsion was memorable, as was watching the sunset as a family from the gardens after dinner.

There is masses to do from wild swimming to wild boar safaris. Five minutes from the hotel is Puzzlewood, an ancient woodland of strange rock formations, secret caves and very old trees. It is an extraordinary place – so no surprises it has been used as a film location for everything from Dr Who to Merlin to Star Wars, but its popularity meant it was rather overcrowded, which killed the mystery and magic somewhat.

We far preferred mountain biking at the Cannop Cycle Centre. At this woodland cycle centre, you can hire really wellmaintained, good-quality mountain bikes and set off into the Forest on a number of well-marked trails. Like skiing, each trail is marked for difficulty. I was keen to do the Green 11-mile Family Trail but was roundly outvoted, so we set off on the seven-mile Blue Verderer’s Trail. This is a fast-flowing single-track trail which to the uninitiated and unfit (me) was extremely challenging and very bumpy. It was proper heart-racing thigh-trembling exercise, in other words, totally brilliant and all three children were utterly fearless and loved it. Highly recommended.

STAY

We stayed at the Angel Hotel in the centre of Abergavenny. Built as a coaching inn in 1829, it has a gorgeous Georgian façade, the main doors opening right on to the pavement in the town centre. Although traditional in feel, the Angel is still very much the centre of town life and felt buzzy and busy.

We were staying in a ‘cottage’ close to the hotel; I had images of a wooden chalet in the hotel grounds, in fact Sugarloaf Cottage is a restored 17th century town house, adjacent to the main hotel building. It is perfect for families, with a modern kitchen and sitting room area and two large ensuite bedrooms with views of the Sugarloaf Mountain on the first and second floors. Most importantly, from the children’s point of view, there were

CANOEING EN FAMILLE

TUDOR FARMHOUSE IN CLEARWELL

ABS_Aug19_FOREST OF DEANL.indd 117

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

117

26/07/2019 14:49

OSM.indd 1

24/06/2019 09:39

TRAVEL • ADVENTURE MASTER BEDROOM AT THE ANGEL HOTEL IN ABERGAVENNY

For some stretches it was just us, the water and surrounding trees.

Blissful. vast TV screens on every wall. The cottage isn’t set up for self-catering, but why would you want to when you can eat at the hotel, or visit their very own bakery, just a few feet away from our front door. There you can buy amazing sourdough bread and grab yourself a proper coffee. We ate in the Oak Room at the Angel Hotel itself where head chef Wesley Hammond is producing some really exciting food.

PLAY

There is an endless array of family activities in the Wye Valley area. The week we visited, the Hay Book Festival was on although we opted for a walk-up Sugar Loaf mountain instead. It’s a glorious walk on a clear track that led us upwards through fields dotted with sheep and dark, ancient woodland.

We also went canoeing on the River

SUNSHINE AT THE TUDOR FARMHOUSE

BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF THE WYE

Wye, guided by Paul Marshall who runs Inspire2Adventure, an outdoor activity company based in Monmouth. He’s basically the Bear Grylls of the Wye Valley. We set off in three canoes, seven miles upstream from Monmouth and paddled back downstream past the famous rocky outcrop of Symonds Yat and through a very mild stretch of rapids. Paul was brilliant, an encyclopaedia on the area and a natural with the children.

Our eight-year-old was unsure at first and wanted to be with his mum and dad, but by the end of the trip he was paddling away in Paul’s canoe, racing us to the finish line. It was hard work, but well worth it. And for some stretches it was just us, the water and surrounding trees. Blissful.

I have always wanted to go foraging so my greatest treat was to spend our last afternoon with Liz Knight from Forage Fine Foods. Liz is both a forager and a cook and we had a fascinating time with her. I imagined she would show us all sorts of exotic plants, but we simply wandered down a farm track as she introduced us to the wild and wonderful things that so-called weeds can do. Nettles, plantain, cow parsley, hogweed, burdock root, clover… the list was endless. The next family trip might well be a week of foraging and cooking with Liz in her idyllic home. With maybe just the odd bit of hair-raising mountain biking thrown in.

B O O K YO U R A DV E N T U R E Tudor Farmhouse in Clearwell Rooms from £130 (two sharing) tudorfarmhousehotel.co.uk; 01594 833046 • The Angel Hotel in Abergavenny Rooms from £95 (two sharing) angelabergavenny.com; 01873 857121 • Pedalabikeaway Mountain bikes to hire From £15 per child; from £20 per adult pedalabikeaway.co.uk; 01594 729000 • Inspire 2 Adventure guided canoe sessions From £30 per child; from £40 per adult inspire2adventure.com; 01600 891515 • The Family Assault Course From £10 per person per hour forestofdeanadventure.co.uk; 07584 710202 • Liz Knight group foraging sessions From £65 per person foragefinefoods.com; 01873 860347

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

ABS_Aug19_FOREST OF DEANL.indd 119

119

26/07/2019 14:49

BEACHCOMBER DINAROBIN

Shore

THING The African island with more to offer than a picture perfect coastline B y F L O R A T H O M A S

M

auritius is the paradisiacal island best known for its dreamy beaches.

Frankly, that's what I’m here for. But most striking upon arrival is the rugged, verdant green landscape. Mark Twain said, “Mauritius was made first and then heaven; and heaven was copied after Mauritius.”

Heaven, surely, has something to suit everyone? Becasue Mauritius, as I’m about to discover, sure does.

First stop is Victoria, a mere hour’s drive from the airport, situated on the northeast corner of the island between the capital Port Louis and the tourist hub of Grand Baie. Of Beachcomber’s portfolio of resorts, Victoria is one of the best for families. The main pool forms the hub of activity, it’s enormous and plays host to a multitude of fun and games

120

from aerobics to scuba training, but the emphasis is on children’s activities which - judging from the gleeful smiles all round are popular.

Le Superbe is the hotel’s main restaurant. It’s next to the pool and open for every meal. We have breakfast here andalthough it’s a serve-yourself scenario you’ll never struggle to find a member of staff to fetch you a proper coffee. For supper we head to La Casa, the resort’s Italian-themed beach-side restaurant.

Despite selling itself as a casual dining space, the food is top notch and there’s a long list of Italian wine to choose from.

A separate, adults-only section (including an adults-only restaurant) makes Victoria a good fit for couples or indeed lone travellers to holiday with friends who’ve got kids: just because your best friend has a five year old doesn’t mean you too have to be surrounded by little ones all day.

SUITE AT VICTORIA

It’s undeniably romantic and the atmosphere is very chilled

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

Aug19_Travel_ MAURITIUS.indd 120

26/07/2019 15:07

TRAVEL • MAURITIUS SPA POOL AT DINAROBIN

SUITE AT DINAROBIN

If you’re looking for a dramatic backdrop to a holiday snap, you can’t beat Le Morne Brabant mountain, a giant basaltic monolith on the island’s southwest tip. Here lies Beachcomber Dinarobin, on a peninsula between the mountain and a mile-long stretch of golden sands. Whereas at Victoria the emphasis is on families, couples rule the roost at this tranquil five-star resort.

Guests can access four restaurants, an 18-hole championship golf course and sistersite Paradis just a five-minute shuttle ride away. It’s undeniably romantic, double day beds are scattered around exotic gardens and ornamental ponds while tables for two nestle into the immaculate sand.

Dinarobin’s four restaurants are set around the main pool and beach. The newest and my favourite is Umani, where we enjoy an elaborate and delicious feast of sashimi and sushi. It’s such a sleek affair that you could easily forget you’re floating in the Indian Ocean, but the coconut palms rustling overhead in the breeze will bring you back to reality.

We set off early the next morning in search of dolphins (such excursions are very easy to arrange), and it doesn’t take long before we’re surrounded by them. The boat’s driver encourages us to jump in and get involved so we do, and it’s pure heaven.

They put on a proper show, leaping out of the water, splashing back down, frollicking around and in huge numbers - there are at least twenty of them playing with us. When the dolphins get bored and swim away we’re left wanting more and our wishes are duly fulfilled. This sea is teeming with them.

Still riding the wave of pure dolphin joy, we arrive in an utterly idyllic lagoon. I find myself wondering if it gets much better than this; I’ve never seen water so crystal clear, sand so dazzlingly white or sky so brilliantly blue. Without wasting a moment, I launch myself into the silky water only to discover it does indeed get better: I’m surrounded by a kaleidoscope of little fish, darting across the seabed. I could float here for hours, but my massage at the spa is fast approaching, so we head back to dry land.

The true magic of Dinarobin lies in the hotel’s warm, friendly and long-serving staff who are Facebook friends with repeat guests (who form 60% of the clientele here).

Never overbearing and always there when you ‘need’ another cocktail, you can’t fault them. As my Mauritian trip draws to a close I leave with every intention of becoming one of the 60%.

BEACH AT VICTORIA

FAC T F I L E Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa Seven nights full board from £1,755 per person Price includes return economy flights with Emirates and transfers in Mauritius.

• Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa Seven nights all-inclusive from £1,745 per person Price includes return economy flights with Emirates and transfers in Mauritius.

• Beachcomber Tours 01483 445 610 beachcombertours.uk

FAMILY POOL AT VICTORIA

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

Aug19_Travel_ MAURITIUS.indd 121

121

26/07/2019 15:07

YOUR TROPICAL OASIS Dedicated to the wellness of body & mind

PP.indd 1

23/05/2019 13:51

R

omney Marsh is a lowlying coastal area that stretches from Folkestone to Dungeness and Lydd; it’s an area that has a remote feel and has historically been in the front line for invasion from France and further afield. The coastline is still dotted with curiosities including the remains of Roman forts, various towers and defence batteries.

THE CABIN

T

he Cabu site consists of several luxurious and design-led wooden huts centered around a pool and a small clubhouse with a shop.

Our cabin, though compact, is well-equipped and comfortable, filled with outsized sofas, an intriguing selection of books on design and nature, a wood burner and a basic though stylish kitchen, plus a good bathroom with an excellent shower. Beds are comfortable and a well-stocked minibar is a welcome addition. There’s a private deck with deckchairs too.

WHAT TO DO

L

ie by the pool, for one – and then hit the vast stretch of beach. Hire bikes and cycle along the coastal path to Dungeness or all the way round to Camber Sands and Rye – or take the other direction to Folkestone, where the newly restored Harbour Arm has a programme of live music and outdoor screenings with a fabulous view of the famed White Cliffs. Without bikes, walking

GETTING THERE

F

or south-east Londoners, it’s just over an hour’s drive (if you’re lucky). It’s also 35 minutes on the train from St Pancras to Ashford International, and half an hour in a cab from there to Cabu.

This makes it one of the most accessible coastal areas for Londoners.

weekend

THE AREA

the coastal path to Dymchurch is easy, and the lovely staff at Cabu can recommend pubs and eateries nearby.

D ESTINATI O N S

TRAVEL • UK GETAWAY

CABU, ROMNEY MARSH KENT

By P E N D L E H A RT E

Design-led wooden cabins with direct access to the beach TWO NIGHT WEEKEND STAYS AT CABU START AT £540 OVER THE SUMMER

Cabu By The Sea, Dymchurch Road, St Mary's Bay, TN29 0HF cabu.co.uk

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

ABS_Aug19_UK Getaway.indd 123

123

26/07/2019 14:54

STOKEPARK.indd 1

25/04/2019 11:14

TRAVEL • ESSENTIALS

1 1

PRETTY IN PINK GLOBETROTTER

Globe-Trotter's old fashioned trolley cases in SS19’s Riviera stripe are designed for weekend journeys and overnight stays. Featuring an extendable handle and two internal webbing straps, easy travel has never looked so cute. £1570; globe-trotter.com

P A C K B R I G H T

2

SIZE UP

TED BAKER

No self-respecting beauty queen should set off without Ted’s beautiful vanity case. The contemporary confection of a carrier comes with zipped interior compartments, pretty printed lining, and a back strap so it can be attached to another suitcase with ease. Time for glam. £140; tedbaker.com

COLOURED STYLISH TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

3

4

SKY HIGH SA MSON ITE

This colourful case, made in Europe, is this season's must-have for practicality. One in a collection of hard cases that are strong, scratchresistant, and ultra-lightweight.

Super roomy and easy to move thanks to 360-degree rotating wheels this suitcase is a dream to use and stylish too. £485 samsonite.co.uk

2

4

P OW E R PAC K AWAY T R AV E L

5

3

Away's clever wheelie case contains two neat compartments with straps to compress your clothes, a hidden laundry bag and an assortment of travel plugs. Best of all, the carryon includes a removable portable charger, so you'll never be flat when on the go. It comes in a wide range of colours and sizes. From £225; awaytravel.com

5

CITY SPINNER FA R I O N O

The anti-bag design of Fariono's City Carrier collection is the first of its kind and takes the weight off your shoulders. Designed to make life less of a drag, this custom-built trolley, allows you to get everything you need to your destination, without lifting a finger. £186; carriedbyfarino

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

ABS_July19_TRAVEL ACCESSORIES.indd 125

125

26/07/2019 14:55

HH.indd 1

14/01/2019 14:47

KIDS & EDUCATION

SNAP SHOP KID PIX

All the best independent childrenswear brands and boutiques in one place?

It's a dream come true for style-conscious parents. Kidpix carefully curates an online collection of up and coming brands alongside established designers. kidpix.uk

Small Talk: Spanish fashion and Alice in Kew 129 A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

Aug19_Kids_Opener.indd 127

127

26/07/2019 14:57

Mayfield B OA R D I N G & DAY S CHO O L FO R GIR L S AGED 11 TO 18

OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC RESULTS • SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE EXTENSIVE CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME EXEMPLARY PASTORAL CARE & NURTURING ENVIRONMENT SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL SUSSEX COUNTRYSIDE FLEXI, WEEKLY AND FULL BOARDING OPTIONS WEEKEND RETURN BUS TO LONDON CLOSE PROXIMITY TO LONDON AIRPORTS MINIBUS SERVICE ACROSS SUSSEX AND KENT

Open Mornings

THURSDAY 19 TH SEPTEMBER 2019 TUESDAY 5 TH NOVEMBER 2019

TO ARRANGE A VISIT PLEASE CONTACT OUR REGISTRAR, MRS SHIRLEY COPPARD, REGISTRAR@MAYFIELDGIRLS.ORG

WWW.MAYFIELDGIRLS.ORG

MAYFIELD.indd A4 1 Ad (Sep & Nov).indd 1 MAY_TDA33119

01/05/2019 09:33 10:56 30/04/2019

KIDS & EDUCATION • NOTES ALL TOGETHER N OW ST E L L A M C CA R T N E Y BRAND FOCUS

Inspired by the iconic Beatles film Yellow Submarine, Stella McCartney has launched the ‘All Together Now’ collection— featuring scenes, motifs and graphics from the film across womenswear, menswear and kidswear. stellamccartney.com

P E PA & C O

SMALL TALK Yellow Submarine style, Spanish fashion and Alice in Kew Gardens

PRINT MAKERS M A I N STO RY

The summer collection from British brand Main Story features art-inspired prints and minimal utility-style detailing. A muted colour palette makes it easy to mix and match everything – simple design at its best. main-story.com

FIRE BREATHER

EDITOR’S PICK

T

here are few brands that do special occasionwear as well as Pepa & Co. For little ones from newborn up to eight years old, the collection is the brainchild of Spanish-born, London-based designer Pepa Gonzalez.

Think traditional and timeless without any fussiness. It’s the go-to for flower girls and pageboys and their site is definitely bookmark-worthy if you’ve got a long list of newborn gifting to do.

This season’s colour palette is fresh, full of shades of primrose yellow and cornflower blue, punctuated with dashes of bold brights. And spriggy floral prints, ruffles-galore, not-to-mention hand-smocked detailing make for the sort of pieces that you’ll want to keep and pass along. We love their adorable collection of accessories (including dainty shoes, hair bows and tights) too. pepaandcompany.com

ALICE IN KEW

B I L LY A N D T H E D R AG O N

K E W GA R D E N S

By Nadia Shireen Billy’s at a fancy-dress party when her loyal sidekick is kidnapped by a massive, fire-breathing dragon.

She embarks on a brave rescue mission along with her animal friends, but can they save the day – and the party? £6.99

Lewis Carroll’s classic story is cleverly lifted from the page and beautifully brought to life in Glenn Elston’s highly acclaimed production of Alice in Wonderland in Kew Gardens, which continues until 27 August.

 penguinrandomhouse.com

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

ABS_AUG19_KIds Notes.indd 129

129

26/07/2019 14:58

Bring LEARNING to LIFE

Jill Walker gives advice on how children can get the most out of museum visits

S

chools in London are fortunate in many respects – not least for their easy and free access to world-renowned art galleries and museums. My school in Kensington, with half a dozen institutions on its doorstep, may be luckier than most – but every school in London can, without too much difficulty, arrange to have their pupils stare at mummies, tremble before dinosaurs and wonder at any number of Picassos, Titians and Turners.

I have spent many years observing hordes of young children excitedly descend on exhibits, pressing buttons and lighting up displays, and after a few

130

minutes rushing on to the next one, instantly forgetting what had excited them only moments before.

After an hour or two, it’s time for lunch then onto the bus to be back at school for 3.30.

It’s an exhilarating and exhausting experience for children, and hardly less so for teachers.

But is it really educational? What benefits can children derive from an experience that can be more overwhelming than stimulating?

The fact is, as wonderous as museums are, they can also be too much to take in. Young children tend to switch off after 30 minutes or so even if they find the exhibits initially captivating. Giving them more material to absorb risks quelling their enthusiasm with information overload. So what

“As wonderous as museums are, they can also be too much to take in”

EDUCATION • FOCUS should schools and parents do? The key is to make exhibits in museums and art galleries extensions of the curriculum. Parents should find out what children are currently studying and choose a single object that exemplifies that element of the curriculum. Get children to research it before they visit, then afterwards ask them to review and evaluate what they have learnt.

Back in the classroom, they can explore the idea in more detail in collaborative projects.

Let me give you an example. The Science Museum is home to the Miss England speedboat, which was once the fastest boat in Britain and reached a top speed of 92mph in 1929. It was captained by a Sir Henry Seagrove, a thrill-seeker who had already set the land speed record in his car, Golden Arrow.

The purpose of the lesson is to get children to understand speed.

How did Miss England achieve such speed? Her powerful aircraft engine helped, but what else? Look at her shape? What materials were used? The boat floats because ‘upthrust’ from the water balances the downward force from the weight of the boat. Let’s show how this works by standing facing each other and pushing, hand to hand, to see how a balance of force can stop you falling over… and so on.

At Prince’s Gardens Prep, we have called this ‘our living curriculum’ and it’s designed to bring learning alive by using public treasures in a clearly defined way for explicit educational outcomes.

Every child has the chance to visit a museum or art gallery at least once a week to study an exhibit and learn from it. I appreciate that such frequent visits aren’t an option for many schools. But our approach is.

Our captial’s museums and art galleries are awe-inspiring places, but for children to get the most out of them we should focus a little less on the wonder and awe and a lot more carefully on what precise lessons their exhibits can teach us.

J I L L WA L K E R Headmistress Prince’s Gardens Preparatory School

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

_USE_ABS_Aug19_EDUCATION.indd 130

26/07/2019 14:59

“a gem of a school�

- Current parent

A first-class education for girls aged 4 to 18, since 1887

Nothing should hold a girl back.

Visit us to discover how we develop fearless girls, happy and confident about their futures. www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net | admissions@syd.gdst.net 020 8557 7004 | 15 & 19 Westwood Hill, London SE26 6BL SYDENHAM.indd 1

23/05/2019 10:54

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

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

The perfect setting The perfect setting for early schooling for early schooling

Pre-School and and Pre-Prep Pre-Prep in the • Largest independent Pre-School UKthe focusing on 2–7onyear UKindependent focusing 2–7olds year olds • in Largest Pre-School and Pre-Prep in the UKinfocusing ontransition 2–7 olds • Experts the critical from Embedding key values andyear skills, forplay life – cognitive, based toinmore structured learning physical, social and emotional • Experts the critical transition from play based to more structured learning •• Largest into thetransition reputable Experts feeder in the critical from play based to

local • Largest feederschools into the reputable moreDulwich structured learning local Dulwich schools •• Uniquely Uniquely happy happy and and friendly friendly ethos ethos and and atmosphere atmosphere Uniquely happy and friendly ethos and atmosphere • Wide range of after school clubs and wrap-around care • Wide range of after school clubs and wrap-around care from 8am–4.45/6pm depending on the year group • Wide range of after school clubs and wrap-around care from 8am–4.45/6pm depending on the year group from 8am–4.45/6pm depending on the group at 4+ • Main entry into Kindergarten at 2+ andyear Reception • Main entry into Kindergarten at 2+ and Reception at 4+ • Main entry into Kindergarten at 2+ and Reception at 4+ www.hernehillschool.co.uk enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk www.hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk 020 7274 6336 The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill The Old Vicarage London SE24 127 Herne Hill9LY London SE24 9LY

EC.indd 1 • SE_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 3

HERNE HILL SCHOOL.indd 1 24/07/2019 16:25

24/10/2018 12:09 26/07/2019 14:22

EDUCATION • PROMOTION

STUDENTS, PARENTS AND TEACHERS

PANEL DISCUSSION

DIVERSIFY and LEAD St Dunstan’s College hosts an evening on diversity and leadership with special guests

ELLAH ALLFREY OBE

S

t Dunstan’s College was delighted to host an event on the theme of diversity in leadership positions on 25 June. The event was part of the two-week St Dunstan’s Festival, which the College hosts each year at the end of June. It enables pupils to engage in a huge variety of activities involving not only the College but also the local Lewisham community.

Special guests who formed the event's panel included Jamaican British campaigner Baroness Doreen Lawrence, Zimbabwean-born Ellah Allfrey OBE, LGBT+ author and inclusion teacher Shaun Dellenty, Councillor Brenda Dacres of Lewisham, and solicitor Glenn Hammet who currently works at Royal London Asset Management.

The evening saw each guest take to the stage to speak to the audience about their experience of challenges faced in reaching leadership positions. The speakers also discussed where work is still needed to

“We were honoured to host the event.

There is work to do, especially given today's climate” ensure diversity across society.

The student-led event, held at the Jubilee Grounds, was organised by the College’s Equalities Society who had specifically requested such an event take place at the St Dunstan's Festival 2019.

St Dunstan's Sixth Former and member of the Equalities Society, Beth AtkinsonClark, said, "I really wanted to have an event at this year’s festival which celebrated the diversity of our College, while raising awareness of the importance of diversity within leadership roles. The impressive panel each represented their sector and the event was a great success. The audience were highly involved in the Q&A session and in discussing important issues."

Headmaster Nicholas Hewlett added, "We were honoured to host an evening with a focus on diversity and leadership.

"The questions put to the panel focused on real issues such as minority representation in parliament, racism in the police force and LGBT+ awareness within schools. The panel agreed that progress has been made in many areas, but that there is still much work to do, especially given today’s climate.’

The evening was attended by more than a hundred guests made up of students, parents, former students and members of the local community.

St Dunstan's College A co-educational independent school in Catford for children aged 3 - 18 stdunstans.org.uk

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

Abs_Aug19_ST DUNSTANS ADVERTORIAL.indd 133

133

23/07/2019 17:24

‘One school, two buildings, great teaching, and tip top facilities.’ The Good Schools Guide The Study is a leading prep school situated in the heart of Wimbledon Village.

We identify and nurture each girl’s unique academic, creative and sporting skills in a caring and supportive community.

For further details and to book a school visit, contact Jane Davis on 020 8947 6969 www.thestudyprep.co.uk Registered Charity No. 271012

We welcome enquires about our scheme of assistance with fees for girls aged 7+.

Preparatory School for girls aged four to eleven

BHH.indd 1

24/05/2019 14:09 RB5708 Generic-SW&Wimbledon advert indd.indd 1

20/08/2018 12:10

MAGDALENA EWEN

GERMAN AND FRENCH TUITION WITH A QUALIFIED TEACHER

NATIVE GERMAN SPEAKER QUALIFIED TEACHER - (PGCE, UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD) GERMAN TUITION FOR ALL KEY STAGES (KS1-KS5) FRENCH TUITION (KS1-KS4)

07568 299 910

ME.indd 1

• SE_ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 4

www.metuition.com

magdalena@metuition.com

26/07/2019 14:19

26/07/2019 14:22

KIDS & EDUCATION • Q&A

Ben FOGLE

The broadcaster, writer and adventurer has mixed feelings about his boardingschool days at Bryanston in Dorset

Q Where did you go to school and when?

A Bryanston for five years in the Nineties.

Q Did you enjoy it?

A I was really homesick in the first year but then I loved it.

Q What did you like about it?

A I liked the fact that it was rural.

I grew up in central London and I loved the access to the woods, forests and rivers. I liked the independence; being able to decide when to do my homework, when to play tennis. It was very liberal and I liked that fact that the school encouraged every pupil to be themselves, to be who they wanted to be.

Q What was your favourite subject?

A Art and CDT (Craft, Design and Technology). I’ve always been more

creative than I am academic. My mother and sisters are all creative types and I loved making things as a child.

Q Who was your favourite teacher?

A Mr Long, my housemaster. During that first year he was so good at taking me into his own house and trying to settle me. He and his late wife treated me as if I was their son. If it wasn’t for him I don’t think I would have stayed.

Q Would you send your own children to boarding school?

A Not for the sake of boarding per se, but if the right school for one of my children is too far away - and there aren't many great schools in central London if your children aren’t highly academic - then I might consider it. I’m not anti-boarding in any way - I think there is a great place for it still. My wife and her sisters have an interesting take on the issue of boarding; they think they

had a much better teen relationship with their mother as they could take out their teen angst on their housemistress so relations were better at home.

My children are seven and nine years old. I can’t bear the thought of them going to boarding school right now; I am definitely against sending them before they are 13, I want them at home with me.

Q What was your favourite activity at school?

A I was obsessed with tennis and also loved going into the craft building as well, making stuff. I made an operating table for my dad who’s a vet - it had a pump and you could inflate it up and down. It was pretty terrible but I have strong memories of making it.

Q Where was your favourite hangout?

A I have vivid summer memories of Dorset, lying on the grass under the big trees in the sun and I liked the grass tennis courts in front of the school. I was happy as long as I was outside.

Q What was your greatest achievement?

A When I did my first assembly in front of the whole school. It was a comedy performance which I performed when I was about 15. I had such a sense of achievement afterwards, it was a really big deal for me as I was so shy.

Q How did Bryanston influence your life?

A It gave me confidence. I think if I hadn’t been away at school I wouldn’t have been forced to make my own decisions; it helped improve my self esteem. Private school instills a confidence in you that I don’t think people necessarily get in the state sector - it instils the ability to be who you want to be. I think people commonly mistake it for arrogance. It’s not, it’s confidence.

Q Do you have any negative feelings about your school days?

A I didn’t get any academic results from my schooldays (Fogle got C, D and N grades at A-Level) but that wasn’t the fault of the school. I developed confidence but that was in spite of the exam system.

What we have now is a system that rewards your ability to revise and

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

_Prep_June19_Making of Me BEN FOGLE.indd 135

135

23/07/2019 17:26

www.kings-school.co.uk

OPEN MORNINGS 13+ Saturday 5th October

Sixth Form Saturday 21st September

Watch our film

www.kings-school.co.uk/school-film

A 21 Century education within the historical City of Canterbury st

Under one hour from London via High Speed 1 (St Pancras International)

Watch our film

www.junior-kings.co.uk/school-film

www.junior-kings.co.uk

OPEN MORNING Saturday 12th October

TKS.indd 1 King's School_August2019.indd 1 Absolutely_The

24/07/2019 16:31 18/07/2019 11:37:49

KIDS & EDUCATION • Q&A

“What we have now is a system that rewards your ability to revise and cram information”

cram information. I couldn’t retain information and then I’d crumple under the pressure, I could barely remember my own name, let alone anything else.

I know I am dyslexic - I still get my bs and ds muddled. I was never diagnosed but it’s perfectly obvious to me. But I didn’t want the label, I didn’t want it to define who I am. But whenever I write books I always forewarn my editors!

Q How do you feel about the school system now?

A I think the whole system is broken, both private and state. If I hadn’t been at Bryanston, with that level of support, I might have been dragged under. We need to reexamine our obsession with exams as a measure of whether you will succeed in life.

Q Who did you want to be at school?

A I wanted to be someone who embraced

life, who travelled, faced my fears- I think I’ve kind of done those things. It’s funny that I’m known as an explorer - at school I didn’t excel at sports at all. I left Bryanston wanting to be more brazen.

Everything I have done since then, climbing Everest, rowing across the Atlantic, all of it has been my versions of exams - trying to rebuild my shattered confidence.

Q Where did you get your love of nature from?

A My father is Canadian - we spent every summer as children in Canadian wilderness. And the Dorset countryside definitely helped. Now I am UN Patron of the Wilderness. I share my experiences, and talk to governments about the fragility of the wilderness. I am the voice for a fragile and voiceless environment.

Q What are you doing now?

A I'm writing a new series of children’s books called Mr Dog. I have written lots

of adults titles but now I’m a father, children’s books obviously appeal.

I love dogs. And the British countryside and its animals so often get overlooked, so I wanted to include them.

It was also a chance to put down on paper some of the chance encounters with animals that I’ve had over the years - it’s the perfect opportunity to share them.

Q How would you sum up your school days in five words?

A Happy, idyllic, difficult, nostalgic, wild, game.

Mr Dog and the Rabbit Habit, £5.99, HarperCollins, out now.

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

_Prep_June19_Making of Me BEN FOGLE.indd 137

137

23/07/2019 17:26

PICTURE YOURSELF AT

James Allen’s Girls’ School

PORTR AIT OF A JAGS GIR L

PORTR AIT OF A JAGS GIR L

Aspiring veterinarian, adept trumpeter, linguist... and humane.

Committed ecologist, charity co-ordinator, cellist... and humane.

LEADING INDEPENDENT GIRLS’ SCHOOL 4–18 YEARS OPEN MORNINGS WED 25 SEPT*

SAT 5 OCT

THU 17 OCT*

(NO NEED TO BOOK) 100% BURSARIES AVAILABLE FROM 11+ *11+ & deferred 13+ entry only.

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.JAGS.ORG.UK JAMES ALLEN’S GIRLS’ SCHOOL 144 EAST DULWICH GROVE, LONDON, SE22 8TE | 020 8693 1181

JAGS.indd 1 JAGS_Absolutely South East ad_210x297_JUN 19.indd 1

07/06/2019 07/06/2019 14:36 08:54

KIDS & EDUCATION • PROPERTY

MOVING

When you need more space, there are several clear paths to follow. Absolutely goes where the grass is greener

L

ondon is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so finding your dream family home can be tricky. All over town there are patterns of migration, well-trodden paths where families come together to get more value and space for their money.

The typical scenario is this: two people are very happily living in Clapham. They own a two-bedroom flat on the first floor of a Victorian conversion, close to the Common and to all the pubs, shops and restaurants they frequent. They have friends nearby; their commutes to work are bearable on the Northern Line and all is well. But then they have a baby and things change: the commute is replaced with a struggle up the stairs with a buggy, long days spent cooped up at home and evenings cooking in a small kitchen while

trying not to wake the baby. The flat is no longer just a base – it has become the centre of their lives, and it feels too small for that. They soon notice the neighbouring buildings that haven’t been converted into flats and realise that what they need is a whole house, with a garden and a hall for the buggy and bedrooms quietly upstairs.

Javaid Ahmed, Sales Manager at KFH in Forest Hill now lives with his wife and five children in a five bedroom house in Streatham, but he used to live in Clapham, in a two bedroom flat. And in fact he’s happier in Streatham. “Most people make three moves before they settle in a house. When people are building their careers, transport is important, so it’s convenient to live in Clapham or Kennington – but then those people realise that they can sell up and buy more in Streatham, East Dulwich and Forest Hill - they can

“What’s on your doorstep is more important when you have children”

Keep on

STREATHAM COMMON

Five bedroom house in Dunoon Road, SE23, currently on the market with KFH at £1.25m

get a whole house and the schools are good.”

He loves Streatham and points out even though the transport’s not as straightforward (“it’s trains not tubes so you have to time it right, which isn’t as good as the northern line”), that’s not so much of an issue for family life. “What’s on your doorstep is more important than how to get places when you have children – in Streatham we have the common, a brand new swimming pool, an ice rink and a great community.”

Most people will move from a flat to a three bed house, and then they’ll either extend or move again.

Forest Hill vendors might move to Beckenham or West Wickham, while Streatham residents are more likely to go to Purley for secondary schools. “You fall into this pattern and it happens naturally. Buyers follow friends who have made the same moves.” These become the well-trodden paths – and they’re quite easy to follow. “Many of us at KFH have our own families and have experienced this too. Where we come in is helping you find a home that fits your needs but also makes you and your family happy for the long term,” says Javaid.

If you’re thinking of making a move in London, get in touch with your local KFH sales or lettings team via kfh.co.uk

JAVA I D A H M E D Sales Manager, KFH

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

ABS_Aug19_KFH.indd 139

139

23/07/2019 17:27

Abels_Full page advert_A4_2.indd 1 ABELS.indd 1

09/05/2019 09:04 29/05/2019 17:40

PROPERTY

LEE TERRACE prices from

£690,000

ocated in Blackheath, Forbury is an intimate collection of apartments and villas. Inspired by Regency architecture yet modern in appearance, the development is within walking distance of the village and train station with connections into London Bridge in just 12 minutes. Only 3, two and three bedroom OBC.indd 1 apartments remaining, from £690,000, and four bedroom villas from £1,725,000 ready to move into.

L

ACORN NEW HOMES 020 8315 6996 acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

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

SE_AUG19_PFC.indd 141

141

26/07/2019 15:23

CAMBERWELL GROVE, SE5

£1,750,000

Knock this substantial home at the bottom of Camberwell Grove into shape. It’s packed with potential and is currently arranged as four bedrooms, two receptions over four floors, with scope to rejig the layout to be arranged as you choose. A 50ft rear garden and some lovely period features will impress too.

ELM GROVE, SE15

£1,200,000

Located on arguably the prettiest street in the Holly Grove Conservation Area, Priory Villa was built circa 1830-42 and sits proudly alongside other handsome homes on Elm Grove. The house is double fronted which allows for a well-proportioned layout to include four double bedrooms, two double depth reception rooms, off street parking and a large loft.

SALE AGREED

CHAMPION HILL, SE5

£380,000

On the ground floor of this handsome 1930s block atop Champion Hill is a very thoughtfully designed one bedroom apartment – most impressive is the reception room and bedroom both open out onto a spacious balcony! Ruskin Park House is very desirable, it takes a leafy and lofty position two minutes stroll from Denmark Hill station.

WOOSTERSTOCK.CO.UK

WOOSTER & STOCK.indd 1

ST GILES ROAD, SE5

£550,000

With impressively high ceilings and extremely tall windows, this two bedroom flat is on the ground floor of the imposing ‘Peacock House’, a converted hospital on St. Giles Road facing Brunswick Park. Always popular, these apartments have more space than usual and have been finished to a high standard. This one has a private garden too.

17 NUNHEAD GREEN

LONDON SE15 3QQ

25/07/2019 10:33

CROFTON ROAD, SE5 OIRO

£625,000

There’s certainly more than enough space to romp around in here! You get the first and second floors in this generous flat, which means you’ll never be bothered by noise from above. The setting is a pretty Victorian corner house located at the top end of Crofton Road. Enjoy three double bedrooms, separate kitchen, large bathroom and sunny reception room.

BRAYARDS ROAD, SE15

£325,000

Take a step onto the property ladder with this clever pad in a smart development in Nunhead. You get a healthy amount of space, separate kitchen, good sized rooms, neutral décor, gated off street parking plus a superb location. You are within a short walk of both Queens Road Peckham and Nunhead stations for excellent transport links and connections.

SALE AGREED

CAMBERWELL GROVE, SE5

£475,000

Spread over the second floor of a becoming Georgian terrace is this tasteful and roomy property. Elegantly decorated and finished, this is a wonderful home having a large reception, delightful double bedroom, bathroom, separate loo and shared use of a leafy rear garden. Over 600 square feet of space and a share of the Freehold will impress too.

SALES@WOOSTERSTOCK.CO.UK

WOOSTER & STOCK.indd 2

MARIANNE CLOSE, SE5

£475,000

Find this charming one bedroom flat with an extra study room in a Grade II listed development, originally built as part of the St Giles’ Infirmary. The development is extremely quiet with a lovely community vibe too. The property is being sold with no onward chain.

020 7952 0595

25/07/2019 10:33

JLL.indd 1

25/07/2019 10:36

JLL.indd 2

25/07/2019 10:36

Online valuation noun

The mystical art of gauging a property’s worth without ever actually stepping through the door.

Also see: guesstimate It’s one of your most important assets, which is why we send a real person to value your property. An expert with extensive market knowledge and local insight. Just one of the reasons we’re rated five stars on Google.

Book a lettings or sales valuation today at kfh.co.uk

London. Property. We get it.

Rating based on over 7,250 five star reviews out of a total 7,779 reviews across the KFH network as of April 2019.

KFH.indd 07.19 KFH 1 SouthEast_V3_DPS.indd 2 Mag_210x297_FP_art.indd 2 9864_KFH_Spring Campaign_Absolutely

26/07/2019 14:24 19/07/2019 16/05/2019 12:55 14:00

Poyntell Crescent, Chislehurst £1,100,000 Recently refurbished to a high standard, this four bedroom detached house is located on this sought after road close to Manor Park and Royal Parade.

The property provides three bedrooms to the first floor, a master bedroom with en suite and walk in wardrobe and a further bedroom and bathroom to the loft.

Excellent local school and amenities close by with access to Chislehurst High Street.

– – – – – – – –

Detached Four bedrooms Three bathrooms Kitchen/diner Utility room Downstairs cloakroom Garage EPC rating E

Chislehurst 020 8285 9900 chislehurst.sales@kfh.co.uk

14:00

KFH.indd 07.19 KFH 2 SouthEast_V3_DPS.indd 3

26/07/2019 12:46 14:24 19/07/2019

LONDON HELP TO BUY† NOW AVAILABLE AT

BIRCH HOUSE SHOWHOME NOW LAUNCHED Call 020 3813 5368 to arrange a viewing

A collection of 2 & 3 bedroom apartments at the award-winning Kidbrooke Village This is a fantastic opportunity to buy your own home at Birch House, the most iconic building at Kidbrooke Village. With its striking architecture and individually designed homes, it really is your chance to live somewhere unique.

2 & 3 bedroom apartments from £577,500

EXAMPLE HOME VALUE £577,500 Delivered in proud partnership with:

OVER

35

HECTARES OF GREEN OPEN SPACES

22 MINS TO

CANARY WHARF*

ON-SITE

RETAIL HUB

Reservation fee Buyers 5% deposit Government 40% loan 55% mortgage

CONNECT

WITH LONDON

C Y C L E

A WA R D W I N N I N G DEVELOPMENT

£500 £28,850 £230,800 £317,350

RESIDENTS

ON LY

FA C I L I T I E S

www.kidbrookevillage.co.uk KIDBROOKE STATION

BLACKHEATH 3 MINUTES*

LONDON BRIDGE 16 MINUTES*

WATERLOO EAST 19 MINUTES*

CANARY WHARF 22 MINUTES*

Sales & Marketing Suite open daily 10am to 6pm (Thursdays until 8pm) Wallace Court, 40 Tizzard Grove, London SE3 9FD

Computer generated image of Birch House is indicative only. Prices and information correct at time of sending to press. *Timing is approximate only. Source: www.tfl.co.uk. †London Help to Buy is subject to the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) terms and conditions and is available on new build homes up to £600,000 to customers where the property represents their only residence. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. CHECK THAT THIS SCHEME WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS IF YOU WANT TO MOVE OR SELL YOUR HOME OR YOU WANT YOUR FAMILY TO INHERIT IT. IF YOU ARE IN ANY DOUBT, SEEK INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVICE.

KIDBROOKE.indd 1 KVABG19 FPC 297 x 210 +3mm.indd 1

21/05/2019 12:38

15/05/2019 16:45 BDR Code: KVABG19

PROPERTY • FEATURE

READY, SET

READ

What began as a one-off library-saving mission has morphed into a registered charity championing a love of reading for kids

O

ver the last 35 years in business, The Acorn Group have worked with many local causes from schools and hospices to village fetes and sports teams. When they announced in 2018 that their corporate social responsibility efforts would now be focussed on the procurement and redistribution of children’s books, they had no idea how popular the scheme would become.

Affectionately named the Acorn Book Club – or ABC – the Acorn CSR team set to work reviewing the flurry of proposals submitted

by local primary schools, and soon embarked on their first official project, a Reading Chalet at Cherry Orchard School in Blackheath. On 24 April the 'student council' saw their dreams become a reality, and the Mayor of Greenwich officially opened their outdoor reading chalet with colourful soft furnishings, shelving units and over 650 books - all donated by the ABC. While their next project is yet to be announced, the Acorn Group are delighted to confirm that what started as a one-off refurbishment project of St Saviour’s School library in 2018, has now flourished into a locally renowned children’s book recycling scheme. The ABC was officially registered by the

“Trustees are committed to improving access to books" Charity Commission at the end of June and its trustees remain dedicated to fostering a love of reading in young children and improve access to books in local schools.

Acorn’s CSR Manager Emma Fox said “We are delighted that the ABC is now a registered charity and continue to be amazed by the support the community show the initiative. We could never have imagined that this many books would be donated and we are committed to giving all children access to good quality books.”

Chair of Governors at St Saviour’s and newly appointed ABC Trustee Jo Chandler said, “I am absolutely honoured to have been asked to be part of the Acorn Book Club Charity and can’t wait to announce our next project!”

The ABC accepts donations of all children’s books – preloved or new – at any Acorn Group office across South London & Kent. Check out the videos of their work so far and find out more at acornbookclub.co.uk.

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

• JM_FP.indd 149

149

26/07/2019 15:25

house..indd 1

26/06/2018 16:17

country house town house period house modern house dream house moving house?

Estate agency has moved on. house. is different We know people are starting to consider online only estate agents, but still want the reassurance of face-to-face help from local experts.

You get both with us, because we provide that personal service without expensive high street locations that customers have to pay for.

We also go further to ensure your property and the lifestyle it enables is shown in the best possible light.

Sumptuous photography and video, and a contemporary web experience not only shows buyers how your home looks, but how it feels to live there. It’s the new, innovative way to add value when selling your house.

The premium online estate agency.

London, Surrey and Sussex 0800 917 0447 info@housepartnership.co.uk

housepartnership.co.uk

house..indd 2

26/06/2018 16:16

PROPERTY • FEATURE

GOING STRONG The Acorn Group goes from strength to strength as it opens a second office in Eltham

GLENN MAHER

"We're excited to continue our growth trend" 152

S

outh east London and Kent based estate agents The Acorn Group show no sign of slowing down their record growth. Four years after opening their Eltham branch, they’re now opening their second office on the same high street. The total number of offices within the group now stands at 38, with further openings planned for 2020 and beyond.

Neil Louth, MD of The Acorn Group said, “Demand for our services in the Eltham area has outpaced even our greatest expectations, resulting in the

need for an additional office to keep up with our clients' instructions.”

The latest office is located on the main junction between Court Road and Well Hall Road, diagonally opposite McDonald's, and just a short walk away from the existing office.

At a time when many of the group's competitors are closing branches, this new office comes hot on the heels of other recent branch openings in Woolwich, Sidcup, Blackfen, Northumberland Heath, Swanley and Plumstead.

Branch Manager, Glenn Maher (pictured) said, “Eltham High Street has benefited from £6.6m of investment in recent years. The regeneration of the town centre includes a new six-screen cinema, greater pedestrian access with widened and repaved footpaths, improved cycle facilities and a monthly market on Passey

Place. The area has been greatly enhanced. Eltham has always been a desirable place to live for first time buyers, commuters, and young families, so it’s no surprise these improvements have increased demand from both buyers and tenants."

The Acorn Group incorporates multiple estate agency brands which all work seamlessly together, including Langford Russell in the Bromley area and John Payne in the Greenwich and Blackheath areas. These brands are supported by dedicated financial services, plus surveying and lease extension teams, allowing each local branch to deliver a wide range of property-related services.

The new office is open now at 78 High Street and can be reached on 020 8860 9999 or eltham@acorngroup.co.uk

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

ELTHAM.indd 152

26/07/2019 15:28

OVER 65% RESERVED – HOUSES READY TO MOVE IN NOW

A breathtaking London village like nowhere else Located in Blackheath, one of London’s thriving villages just over 7 miles from central London, Forbury is an intimate collection of apartments and four bedroom villas. Inspired by Regency architecture yet modern in appearance, the development is within walking distance of the village and train station with connections into Canary Wharf in just 30 minutes.* Final three, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments from £690,000 | Houses from £1,725,000 Show home open 7 days a week 10am-6pm. To book an appointment to view, please call 020 8315 6996 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes.

Photography of Forbury and interior showhome is indicative only. *Travel times taken from trainline.com.

ACORN_NH.indd 1

25/07/2019 10:50

A cosmopolitan & fashionable place to call home.

Stamp duty & legal fee incentives available for reservations made before 31st August*

Now complete and ready to move in, the most affordable new three bedroom apartments in Peckham.

A simultaneously bustling and quaint location that is renowned for its fashionable mix of food and drink choices, Peckham offers a wide array of local shops, cafés and restaurants right on your doorstep.

• Three bedroom apartments

• Communal courtyard garden

• Sizes ranging from 883 - 1,141 sq ft

• Panoramic views of London (selected apartments)

• Private outside spaces to all apartments

• 10 year warranty

*Subject to terms and conditions

To book an appointment to view now, call 020 7089 6566 or visit acorngroup.co.uk/newhomes

Prices starting from just £680,000 1 and 2 bedroom apartments also available from £425,000

ACORN_NH.indd 2

25/07/2019 10:50

ACORN.indd 1

25/07/2019 10:49

ACORN.indd 2

25/07/2019 10:49

The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk

Merritt Road, SE4 £750,000 F/H

Beautiful Victorian house divided over three floors and boasting four double bedrooms with mountains of space in a central location.

1

4

2

D

Contact Brockley 020 8694 1177

Peckham Road, SE15 £750,000 L/H

1,141 sqft three bedroom duplex apartment with private entrance, situated in a new build development on Peckham Road.

1

3

1

TBC

Contact Peckham 020 7771 6777

Follow us on social   @acorngroup,  /acornestateagency or visit us at acorngroup.co.uk

ACORN.indd 3

25/07/2019 10:49

LR.indd 1

26/07/2019 14:25

The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/lr

Springhurst Close, CR0

Stonehouse Road, TN14

The Oaks was constructed 20 years ago and offers 4,300 sqft of beautifully proportioned and well-presented living accommodation.

Well maintained detached bungalow with annexe situated on a highly sought-after private road in a semi-rural location.

£1,795,000 F/H

4

5

4

D

Contact West Wickham 020 8432 7373

£978,000 F/H

2

4

2

D

Contact Orpington 01689 661 400

Denbridge Road, BR1 £2,500,000 F/H

Originally built circa 1904 by the acclaimed architect Charles Quennell and offering nearly 5,000 sqft of living accommodation.

4

6

5

D

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

Follow us on social   @acorngroup,  /acornestateagency or visit us at acorngroup.co.uk/lr

LR.indd 2

26/07/2019 14:25

The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/lr

Westerham Road, BR2

Bickley Park Road, BR1

Superb remodelled and refurbished five bedroom bespoke home.

Larger than average apartment with parking and its own private garden.

£2,400 PCM

£6,500 PCM

3

5

4

E

1

2

2

B

Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

Whitstone Lane, BR3

Park Road, BR1

Townhouse located in the prestigious Langley Waterside gated development.

Three double bedroom townhouse with a garage and a private garden.

£2,250 PCM

2

3

2

£1,750 PCM

C

Contact Beckenham 020 8663 4433

1

3

1

C

Contact Bromley 020 8315 5544

Follow us on social   @acorngroup,  /acornestateagency or visit us at acorngroup.co.uk/lr

LR.indd 3

26/07/2019 14:25

The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/jp

Catherine Grove, SE10

Ashburnham Place, SE10

Annandale Road, SE10

Family home within a gated development located in the Ashburnham Triangle.

Extremely attractive period property within minutes of Greenwich Station & Cutty Sark.

A beautifully presented Victorian house, situated close to good transport links.

£3,350 PCM

1

4

3

£3,400 PCM

C

1

4

2

E

£2,200 PCM

2

3

1

E

Contact West Greenwich 020 8858 9911

Contact West Greenwich 020 8858 9911

Contact East Greenwich 020 3846 1414

Hawthorne Crescent, SE10

Talbot Place, SE3

Brookway, SE3

A light and airy duplex apartment finished to a high standard with secure allocated parking.

Rare to the market is this newly refurbished conversion flat occupying a first floor position.

Impressive, tastefully presented 1930s family house on Blackheath’s private Cator Estate.

£2,450 PCM

1

3

1

B

Contact East Greenwich 020 3846 1414

£2,100 PCM

1

2

1

£3,500 PCM

C

Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

3

4

2

D

Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

WE URGENTLY

NEED MORE

RENTAL PROPERTIES!

Eaglesfield Road, SE18

Fernbrook Road, SE13

A spacious family home situated close to Shooters Hill Golf Course and Oxleas Woods.

A well-presented conversion flat which benefits from a beautiful low maintenance garden.

£2,150 PCM

2

3

1

Lots of tenants waiting!

£1,475 PCM

E

Contact Blackheath Standard 020 8858 6101

1

2

1

D

acorngroup.co.uk

Contact Lee Office 020 8852 8633

Follow us on social   @acorngroup,  /acornestateagency or visit us at acorngroup.co.uk

JP.indd 1

25/07/2019 10:52

JP.indd 2

25/07/2019 10:52

The new home of property

acorngroup.co.uk/jp

Hervey Road, SE3

£1,450,000 F/H

A stunning and unique five bedroom detached house located in a popular residential road benefiting from off-street parking for five cars.

1

5

3

D

Contact Blackheath Standard 020 8858 6101

Kidbrooke Grove, SE3 £1,750,000 F/H

This impressive four bedroom detached 1930s house occupies a large and impressive plot, measuring just over a third of an acre.

3

4

2

E

Contact Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

Follow us on social   @acorngroup,  /acornestateagency or visit us at acorngroup.co.uk

JP.indd 3

25/07/2019 10:53

OBC.indd 1

18/06/2019 16:27