The Mayfair Magazine December 2012 by Runwild Media Group

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Editor’s Letter | The mayfair Magazine

From the

Editor S

omeone once said that Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. The spirit of the festive season is something precious, unselfish and deeply personal. This is something we wanted to pay tribute to in our December issue, focusing on things to do and experience with your loved ones this month. Enjoy the best of the London stage as theatre critic Daniella Isaacs takes us through the latest shows taking the West End by storm (page 22), or stroll around the streets of Mayfair with our detailed map of hotspots and hidden gems – including what decorations to look out for and where to stop for a warming shot of King’s Ginger (page 17). And if you are looking for inspiration for your own family traditions, make sure you read A traditional Christmas (page 10), where we catch up with the great and the good of London, including Sir Peter Blake, India Knight and Tom Aikens, to discuss what’s on the agenda for their Christmas Day (I will definitely be following in Jo Malone’s scented footsteps…). When families gather together, food often takes centre stage. As the countdown for the main event begins, Neil Ridley searches far and wide for the best roast in town, while noting down expert tips for our own home-made attempts (page 84). Meanwhile Kari Rosenberg meets Raymond Blanc to discuss the importance of provenance and fresh produce (page 92). Finally, as the year draws to a close, we have launched the first ever Mayfair Awards, highlighting and celebrating the very best that the area has to offer. With more than 200 nominations and thousands of votes, we reveal the winners inside… Merry Christmas Mayfair.

Elle Blakeman Acting Editor

P L E A S E E N J OY O U R C H A M PA G N E R E S P O N S I B LY DRINKAWARE .CO.UK

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Food & Drink

010 | A traditional Christmas We ask London’s famous and fashionable about their most treasured seasonal customs 017 | Walking in a winter wonderland Joanna Moncrieff takes us on a seasonal stroll through the iconic streets of Mayfair 022 | In the spotlight Your guide to the best new shows in London theatre 051 | The ultimate gift guide We’ve made a list, and checked it twice – these gifts will add the perfect personal touch for under your tree 062 | Alice’s wonderland Elle Blakeman meets Alice Temperley as her flagship store opens in Bruton Street 100 | Burning desire Our guide for cigar connoisseurs – and how to become one. 104 | Storming the desert Richard Yarrow takes the long-awaited new Range Rover for a test run in Morocco

029 | Art news 030 | Exhibition focus Carol Cordrey takes a season look at the lost art of illuminated manuscripts 033 | Prize lots

083 | Food & drink news 084 | The main event Neil Ridley finds the perfect Sunday roast in town and learns how to make your own 091 | After dark Gaucho, Piccadilly opens its doors to late-night tango 092 | The French connection As the new culinary director of Eurostar, Kari Rosenberg talks to Raymond Blanc about cuisine, culture and Christmas 098 | Restaurant review: Hawksmoor

Collection 039 | Sophisticated storage: a time and a place Buben & Zörweg’s Objects of Time 041 | Watch news 042 | The power of purple Regal accessories for the winter ahead 044 | Quantum precision We take you behind the scenes of SalonQP 2012 047 | Jewellery news 048 | Midnight in Paris Dress up this season in diamonds and sapphires

Fashion 059 | Style spy/Style update 068 | Out of the shadows Rich colours and delicate embellishments are the only way to dress this season

Interiors 077 | Interiors news 078 | Putting on the glitz at The Ritz We meet the man behind the magic – Paul Thomas, resident florist to the Ritz, as he explains how he transforms the iconic hotel

Beauty 109 | Beauty news 111 | Spa review: Agua Spa, Sanderson Hotel

Travel 115 | Travel news 116 | City break: Salzburg Escape to the Austrian Alps for a perfect winter break in Mozart’s birthplace

Property 127 | Property news 138 | Another year over Simon Barnes reflects on the challenges of 2012 and looks ahead to what 2013 will bring in the property world 140 | Chalet chic Our top picks of the international market 144 | A voice from the country

Contributors | The mayfair Magazine

The contributors N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 2 s iss u e 0 1 4

Editor Kate Harrison Acting Editor Elle Blakeman Contributing Editor Kari Rosenberg Art Editor Carol Cordrey Food & Drink Editor Neil Ridley Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Editorial Assistant Kate Racovolis Editorial Intern Sandra MacKenzie Head of Design Hiren Chandarana Senior Designer Lisa Wade Production Manager Fiona Fenwick Production Hugo Wheatley, Alex Powell Editor-at-Large Lesley Ellwood Client Relationship Director Kate Oxbrow

daniella isaacs Daniella is a Drama graduate of Bristol University, and is an actress and freelance journalist. This month she shares her top tips on which shows to see at the theatre this Christmas.

Carol Cordrey Carol is an art critic and editor. She organises the annual London Ice Sculpting Festival and is permanently on the art scene bringing us the latest happenings.

kari rosenberg Kari is the deputy editor of Canary Wharf and The City magazines. She talks to Raymond Blanc about his new role at Eurotstar and meets Arjun Waney from The Arts Club.

nick hammond Nick specialises in luxury writing, with a particular emphasis on cigars, shooting, travel. He has written for Country Life and the FT’s How To Spend It among others, and this month brings us a guide to the finest cigars.

richard yarrow Richard is a freelance motoring journalist and a former associate editor of Auto Express. He writes for national newspapers, consumer publications and the automotive business press.

simon barnes Simon is a property consultant with over 20 years of experience, focusing on the prime residential market in Mayfair and Belgravia. This month, he shares his top tips for selling your property.

nEIL RIDLEY London-based food and drink expert Neil has written for The Evening Standard, Whisky Magazine and The Chap. This months, he searches far and wide for the perfect roast.

kate racovolis An alumnus of Columbia University’s Journalism School, Kate comes from a background in fashion writing and is working on her first book. She brings us the latest style news in Mayfair.

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins Associate Publisher Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood

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Cover image / ‘Alex of the Moment’ by Jim Hanlon

Former Formula 1 superstar michael schumacher talks liFe away From the track

a bow

November 2012

Read his review of the Barbican’s Everything Was Moving: Photography from the 60’s and 70’s exhibition on page 9

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A traditional

Christmas From Jo Malone’s Christmas by candlelight to Theo Fennell’s festive feasts, we ask the great and the good of London how they spend the most wonderful time of the year

I love spending quality time with my family – especially my partner and our baby – and of course the delicious festive food and wine! I always start Christmas morning off with an English breakfast to prepare for a full day of cooking! Generally, my side dishes will depend on what we’re eating for the main, but I love cooking with seasonal vegetables so usually it will be a nice mashed root vegetable or roast parsnips with bacon. I also love choucroute and roasted sprouts with chestnuts as an alternative to traditional Christmas classics. Our family tradition is to have Christmas pudding with a hot roux-based sauce which is sweetened with rum and vanilla. I like to prepare the dish a month or two ahead of Christmas Day so the flavours have time to develop.” – Tom Aikens, Chef and Owner of Tom’s Kitchen and Tom Aikens tom aikens (photo: david griffen photography)

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Decorating the house is always something I look forward to, especially the Christmas tree. We have decorations that go back years and years and always buy new bits and pieces. It means that each decoration brings back memories and makes dressing the tree a special time in our house. The expectation of what Christmas brings is always exciting. When I was younger I worked as a post boy and there used to be a Christmas Day service. My mum and dad would always wait until my shift had finished, so we would open our Christmas presents after lunch. It became a kind of tradition in our house. Then I would always go to a football match on Boxing Day.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sir Peter Blake, Artist and President of The Arts Club, Mayfair

peter Blake (photo: Mary McCartney)

I host Christmas here, with my extended family – there’s about 20 of us. I start getting excited about Christmas in September. I moan like everyone else, I go to Selfridges and go ‘Oh they’re mad they’ve got their Christmas department open when it’s really sunny and we’re in flip flops’, but secretly I quite like it. In London, or in families with lots of divorces in them, it’s not often you get everyone in a room together. One of the reasons I love Christmas is that everyone is there and nobody’s going anywhere; you’ve got everyone for the whole day. I think there’s something comforting in that.” – India Knight, Journalist and Author

What kind of question is this? The whole of our Christmas day is a tradition, almost OCD in its regimentation. I love absolutely everything [about Christmas]: the cloyingly heart-warming sights, like old ladies shopping with little children and the sentimental films. I even love the kitschiest of presents and the absurd food one wouldn’t eat at any other time. I love the little bit of decorating the tree that I am allowed to do by the girls, always to the strains of Phil Spector’s Christmas album. We all open our stockings in Louise’s and my room, dress in odd clothes for carols, then back to open presents under the tree, look bemused but attempt gratitude and then eat a ridiculous and huge lunch. Then we try and watch the Queen’s speech, our groaning bodies slumped in front of the telly, then have tea, more food, supper, pre-bed food, all followed by a slug-like ascent upstairs, lie down and stare at the ceiling with amazement at the pain one is in and, lastly, quietly blub because another Christmas is over and soon I will be grown up.” – Theo Fennell, Jewellery Designer LEFT: THEO FENNELL (PHOTO: ANGUS TAYLOR)

aBOVE: India Knight by simon maxwell photography (www.simoncmaxwell.com)

above: DAVID LINLEY; Backgammon board in hand stitched red leather, £2,500 (Www.davidlinley.com)

The thing I enjoy most about Christmas is the opportunity to spend a few days relaxing with my family. This year I will be spending Christmas at my father-in-law’s home. We keep to our traditions of singing Christmas carols, going to church in the morning and having a good long walk after a hearty lunch – Christmas wouldn’t feel like Christmas without them. I am a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to Christmas lunch and I like to use my Linley / Tom Aikens knives to carve the turkey with absolute precision, which my children always tease me about. It is important to me that Christmas feels home-made and I encourage my children to be creative at this time. My daughter Margarita makes the most fantastic Christmas cards and my son Charles and I continue the tradition of making decorations which my father and I began when I was a boy. The best gifts are those which are useful and well made – books and socks are always on my list for that exact reason although, I must admit that following on from the recent James Bond auction at Christie’s (where I am Chairman), seeing something from one of the Bond films under the tree this year would be a real treat!” – David Linley, Chairman of Linley

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Christmas is always spent at home enjoying family traditions. I love the smell of Christmas, so as soon as I wake up I scent the whole house by gently warming peeled tangerine skin and rosemary together in the oven. Most of the day is spent opening our stockings and eating home-cooked food, however my favourite part is just after lunch, when we light the whole house with candlelight and cosy up together on the sofa to watch the Queen’s speech followed by a Christmas movie.” – Jo Malone, CEO of Jo Loves

LEFT: jo malone photographed by Liz McAulay (www. lizmcaulay.com). ab0ove: LEMONGRASS, AMBER, TIARE FLOWER candle, £75, Jo Loves (www.joloves.com)

‘I always spend Christmas Eve dinner at home with my daughters and grandchildren. For me, Christmas is a time for children and I love to see my grandchildren excited about the tree and presents’ – Carolina Herrera

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Christmas is all about family. I love the cold and clear winter weather and the Christmas lights and decorations which all add to the air of expectation of over eating and drinking and of presents! I get so much joy from giving presents that are well received and give real pleasure to the recipient. Our Christmas starts with a midnight church service on Christmas Eve and then stockings on Christmas morning all together in our bedroom. We have always tried to do it this way round as we are not good at getting up in the morning and the children’s desire to open presents immediately takes over everything, so trying to fit in a church service as well would be tricky! Lunch is our main Christmas feast followed by the Queen’s speech and dog walking. After that, exhaustion sets in, followed by a light supper and some good film on television before falling asleep feeling very fat and happy.” – William Asprey, CEO, William & Son

I’m a regular at the Christmas Carol Concert at St Paul’s Knightsbridge, next to the Berkeley Hotel, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support (this year it’s on 13 December). Berry Bros & Rudd have been sponsoring it for the best part of 20 years and we always serve warming glasses of The King’s Ginger with the mince pies outside the church after the service. They used to ask me to read, but King John’s Christmas – my one and only Christmas poem – got a bit repetitive with the regulars, so I now just sit in the congregation.” – Simon Berry, Chairman, Berry Bros. & Rudd

My family is quite dispersed, but Christmas is a special time – it’s the only time of the year that the whole family comes together. We all gather at my mother’s house in the country – a moment that began in early childhood, and has become indelible over time. I like the idea of maintaining certain traditions. I’m not for total self-indulgence. For example, I like the idea of midnight mass, although I’m not a practising Christian. Christmas is a time to dream. It’s important to dream, to maintain one’s own balance when faced with this world that is ever more reasonable and rational. You go back to being a small child, just for one night.” – Michel Perry, Artistic Director, JM Weston 15

James Purdey & Sons Ltd. 57 - 58 South Audley Street, London W1K 2ED +44 (0)20 7499 1801 www.purdey.com

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The mayfair Magazine | Feature

Walking winter in a

wonderland ‘I love Mayfair at Christmas because it’s so much quieter – and more traditional – than the West End, and has some of the best lights and decorations for miles around’

Joanna Moncrieff, London walking guide and author of the westminsterwalking blog, reveals her ultimate Christmastime walk in Mayfair...

#4 Then take a stroll down Bruton Street, go past Stella McCartney’s flagship store (which has had some amazing Christmas decorations over the past two years) to the Coach & Horses pub, where you can get a glass of mulled wine. The pub was rebuilt in the 1930s, even though the top half looks Tudor and it kind of stands alone. Some of the neighbouring buildings having been badly damaged during the war.

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mo #2 I’d then come out onto Mount Street and head into the Mount Street Deli; if you time it right, you might be able to enjoy one of their events, such as the 6pm Christmas cocktail workshop they’re running on December 11.

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#3 From there I’d head to Berkeley Square, where there’s an amazing Christmas tree every year. I’d admire this and also the squares fabulous Plane trees, some of which date back to 1789. I would also take in the surrounding buildings as some of Mayfair’s best-known members’ clubs are here. Annabel’s, London’s first members-only nightclub; the Clermont Club – where Lord Lucan was supposed to be going the fateful night the nanny was murdered – and Morton’s. Although of course you can’t actually pop in for a drink unless you’re a member.

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#1 I’d start my Christmas walk in Mount Street Gardens just as it’s going dark; this is one of my favourite gardens in London and a real hidden oasis in the centre of Mayfair. Lots of people don’t even know about it – in fact I know people who work in Mount Street who didn’t even know they were there. I love the benches there, and it is a great place to sit and take in the quiet. My favourite has an inscription that reads: ‘From an American who couldn’t find a park like this in New York City’.

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#5 A short walk down Bruton Street leads us to Bond Street, where I’d turn right. Here you will find all of the luxury shops like Cartier, Tiffany and Chanel. For the last couple of years Cartier has been dressed as a huge Christmas parcel, with a giant ribbon. Each shop in Bond Street really goes the extra mile – I remember last year one was decorated with real berries. I like to think of the many historical figures who’ve taken a stroll down here, such as Lord Nelson and Emma Hamilton.

above: tiffany’s courtesy of tiffany & co

On the corner of Bond Street and Burlington Gardens cast your eye skywards and see if you can see the bell tower. When I was doing my Christmas walks last year, I heard music coming from it; it sounds a little like a glockenspiel and is made by something called a carillon. It’s very reminiscent of German Christmas market music and is the only one in London.

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#6 I’d then go into the Burlington Arcade, which is the longest shopping arcade in London and a lovely place for some luxury Christmas gifts. The decorations are wonderful and they have the Beadles, too, in their Edwardian frock coats and top hats. There are some quaint old rules here that still exist – so no whistling, no singing, no running and no opening umbrellas! Have a look at Hancocks the jewellers as you pass where they quietly make the Victoria Cross medal.

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#7 Once onto Piccadilly, cross to Fortnums and have a wander into what is easily one of the most festive shops in London at Christmas. You just have to see their windows. Fortnums celebrated their 300th birthday in 2007 and while they’re famous for selling all kinds of luxury food, what’s slightly less well known is that this was also the first place in Britain to stock Heinz baked beans.

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left: the burlington arcade (Bikeworldtravel / Shutterstock.com);

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

#9 From there I’d go to St James’ Church, which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1672. They often have Christmas carol concerts with mince pies and mulled wine, but if you’re unlucky and it’s quiet, head south to St James’s Square onto King Street, into Crown Passage and stop at the Red Lion pub for a shot of King’s Ginger. It’s very friendly in there and one of my favourite pubs in London. King’s Ginger is a liqueur which was created in 1903 by Berry Bros, just around the corner, for King Edward VII to keep him, ‘warm and stimulated’ on long wintry drives, and if it was good enough for the King, it’s good enough for me!

#8 If you leave by the side entrance, you come out onto Duke Street St James’s; head south and then left into Jermyn Street for some window shopping past the men’s tailors, Floris perfumers and the Paxton & Whitfield cheese shop. In Princes Arcade, take a look at Prestat, the chocolate shop, whose founder was named Antoine Dufour. It’s not known if he was related to Louis Dufour who first created chocolate truffles in the Christmas of 1895, but he could well be.

(westminsterwalking.blogspot.co.uk) 19

The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

Couture

culture Roof-top cinemas, icons of the silver screen and a Dickensian themed carol night – Merry Christmas WORDS: ELLE BLAKEMAN

The season is upon us! And while the rest of London is jostling for space, you can take some peaceful time out at the The Berkeley’s Winter Cinema experience. Set on the roof-top terrace – possibly the chicest few metres in all of Mayfair – you can nestle under warm Moncler blankets and enjoy homemade hot chocolate and mince pies while watching a Christmas Classic – festive bliss (www.theberkeley.co.uk). As this will almost certainly ignite a love of the silver screen, you should make sure to pop into 99 Mount Street Gallery who are running Screen Idols – Magnum Photos pop-up – a fabulous exhibition of classic portraits from the Golden Age of cinema, both onand off-screen. Take in a rain-swept James Dean in Times Square, a seductively posed Sophia Loren (right) or an entire decade of Monroe shot by Eve Arnold (who incidently lived on this very street). For those who want to step even further back in time, put the Fayre of St James in your diary. With a Dickensian theme in St James’s Church, Piccadilly, the concert will play host to VIP and celebrity performances from some of the biggest names in entertainment, including James Morrison, The London Contemporary Orchestra and readings from Penelope Wilton (Downton Abbey and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel). Guests are then invited to an exclusive late-night reception and shopping experience at Fortnum & Mason – a great chance to start your Christmas shopping (29th November, for tickets please call 020 3073 6781). And for the rest of your festive shopping: candles from Jo Malone London never fail to please, ‘Thank you’ cards from Smythson make for glamorous gratitude and to cheer up the long trawl round the shops, pop by Selfridges to see the playful window display by Anya Hindmarch – a veritable feast of ‘anyamatronics’ – dancing shoes, tumbling key rings on Ferris wheels and a waterfall of sweets – pure Christmas novelty!

from top: winter cinema at the Berkeley; smythson ‘thank you’ notes; SOPHIA LOREN (© David Seymour / Magnum Photos); JO MALONE London CANDLE; valorie Bells Silver Glitter Fabric clutch by anya Hindmarch

#1 Privates on Parade Noel Coward Theatre | 1 December 2012 - 2 March 2013

The first offering from the star-studded Michael Grandage Company, this awardwinning comedy is set against the murderous backdrop of the Malaysian Campaign in WWII. Starring celebrated Simon Russell Beale as cross-dressing Captain Dennis, this is sure to be a successful start to the company’s debut, and next year’s productions with Dame Judi Dench, Jude Law and Daniel Radcliffe are equally likely to impress.

#2 The Magistrate Olivier Theatre | 14 November 2012, continuing in repertoire

The Oscar-nominated, Tony- and Emmy-award-winning actor John Lithgow stars in this fast, furious, and brilliantly plotted farce, The Magistrate by Sir Arthur Wing Pinero. Set in Victorian London, in the lunatic court of Posket, a police magistrate is at the helm of an outrageous trial concerning the smoking, gambling, philandering, 14- year-old Cis Farringdon. Timothy Sheader, the artistic director behind the glorious Open-Air Regent’s Park Theatre, directs a stellar cast. Alongside Lithgow, the wonderful Nancy Carroll will once again tread the National boards.

#3 Hansel and Gretel If you are a Tim Burton or Michael Haneke fan, Hansel and Gretel is definitely the Christmas show for you. Katie Mitchell, otherwise known as ‘the princess of darkness’ is a director who polarises audiences like no other. Following her avant-garde Beauty and the Beast, this production, based on the Brothers Grimm classic will surely be just as dark and gothic. The show may be advertised as family viewing but it’s unlikely to be just the children that are wincing in their seats. Written by Lucy Kirkwood – the quick-witted political playwright – and devised by Mitchell: you will either love it or hate it.

#4 Twelfth Night & Richard III Apollo Theatre | 2 November 2012 - 10 February 2013

Fresh from a spectacular run at the Globe Theatre this summer come two of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays. Brought to life by an all-male ensemble, including Stephen Fry and renowned thespian Mark Rylance, Twelfth Night proves itself still entirely deserving of its description as a comedy four hundred years later, with laugh-out-loud characterisation and wordplay. More serious drama is on offer from the same cast in the form of Richard III, with Rylance playing the villainous King with a subtlety and charisma that makes for an unforgettable performance. Whether you’re a Shakespeare fanatic or a first-time viewer, this is truly unmissable theatre.

In the

top: the stars of Privates on Parade; above: The Magistrate: Illustrations © Gerald Scarfe; left: Hansel and Gretel, Original Artwork by Helen Musselwhite; below: Stephen Fry as Malvolio in Twelfth Night (photo by Simon Annand).

Cottesloe Theatre | 7 December 2012, continuing in repertoire (Suitable for 7–10-year-olds)

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The mayfair Magazine | Feature

#5 GoodNight Mister Tom Phoenix Theatre | 22 November 2012 - 26 January 2013

Michelle Magorian’s heart-warming tale is vividly brought to life in this stage adaptation by David Wood, with the Olivier awardwinning actor Oliver Ford Davies starring as the reclusive Mister Tom. Set during the harbinger of WWII, Goodnight Mister Tom follows the neglected William Beech as he is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and gradually builds a moving friendship with his unwilling host, Tom Oakley. Just as William begins to feel at home, he is summoned back to London and his old life. A moving and timeless classic, perfect for a winter’s night.

#7 Constellations Duke of York’s Theatre | 9 November 2012 - 5 January 2013

Quantum theory is the subject of this one-hour drama in one of the most touching pieces of theatre performed this year. Rafe Spall and Sally Hawkins play out the infinite possibilities that one relationship could encounter; this ranges from pure romanticcomedy to something much sadder. Nick Payne, the playwright du jour, considers the consequences of free will and friendship in a beautifully poetic manner. This will be one-hour well spent.

#6 Kiss Me Kate TOP: Goodnight Mister Tom (PHOTO by Catherine Ashmore); ABOVE: Rafe Spall AS Roland AND Sally Hawkins AS Marianne IN CONSTELLATIONS (photo by Simon Annand); right: KISS ME KATE (photo by JAY BROOKS); BELOW: Laura Carmichael AS Sonya and Anna Friel AS Yelena IN UNCLE VAnya (photo by Nobby Clark)

The Old Vic | 20 November 2012 - 2 March 2013

Director Sir Trevor Nunn is best known for Shakespeare and musicals; combine the two and you get Kiss Me Kate. Cole Porter’s punchy score presents a show-within-a-show that throws together a world of romantic entanglements, gun-toting gangsters and sparring actors trying to get through a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew. Sublime choreography, top-notch singing and a show-stopping cast, this scintillating musical will surely give you a belter of a night.

#8 uncle vanya Vaudeville Theatre | 24 October 2012 - 16 February 2013

One of Chekhov’s most frequently performed plays is having its third revival this year. Anna Friel deploys her unique charm as young wife Elena, while Ken Stott takes the title role Uncle Vanya and heartthrob Samuel West plays Astrov, the doctor whose involvement with Elena is at the core of the drama. A touching and poignant interpretation of one of the classics of Russian theatre.

British stars descend upon the West End for a season of theatre guaranteed to delight W O R D S : daniella isaacs

The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

My life in MAYFAIR a rjun wa n e y SENIOR DIRECTOR, the arts club

F ‘Coya is going to be one of the most beautifully designed restaurants you’ve ever seen’ – Arjun Waney

from top: arjun waney; banca (photo by paul winch); Cecconi’s; food at banca

or many, Arjun Waney, the Indian-born entrepreneur is synonymous with exquisite Mayfair gastronomy. From La Petite Maison to The Arts Club, Banca to Aurelia, Waney has worked his foodie magic across most culinary continents; fresh seafood ceviches and carpaccios, baby chickens and Dover soles each making an appearance more than once along the way. Yet, it was another Burlington-based eatery that first inspired Waney to set up shop in Mayfair: ‘I always wanted to be near Cecconi’s’ – the local ‘institution’ providing his very favourite Mediterranean food. Living in a penthouse in Lowndes Square, Waney has come a long way from his Bombay roots and now the newly opened Coya, boasting Peruvian-style food, looks set to become another equally impressive notch on Waney’s epicurean bedpost. ‘It’s going to be one of the most beautifully designed restaurants you’ve ever seen. It’s going to have a private club on the top floor with a £600 admission fee and we’re only thinking of taking around 200 members.’ With each of Waney’s new ventures proving even more successful than the last, he plans to expand his Mayfairbased brands worldwide, bringing a touch of Piccadilly to New York and the Middle East. ‘We’re taking Aurelia to Dubai because the food is so appealing to that market. For example, I went to Aurelia for lunch the other day with some of the royal princes of Saudi Arabia and I asked them where their favourite places in London were. Without them knowing I was one of the owners of the restaurant, one said “I come here two or three times a week” and I was shocked. I said “But I’ve never seen you there” and he replied that I must go on the wrong days.’ ‘We’re also going to develop The Arts Club in New York but before that we might open up in Istanbul, because its economy is growing at eight or nine per cent a year and it’s very close by. It’s got a very wealthy population but they don’t have a private club mentality so we’re taking on the challenge for the first time.’ And while there’s no doubt Arjun enjoys dining in each of his restaurants at least once a week, they also host a number of his charitable fundraisers, something the entrepreneur is far more concerned with than spending his fortune on life’s little luxuries. ‘My only ambition in life right now is to raise money for curable blindness in India. I made a promise to my daughter that we will use all our money and all our efforts to eradicate it.’ 25

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The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

Remembering

MAYFAIR t h e r i t z l o n d o n , piccadilly

‘W

here Ritz goes, I go,’ so said Albert Edwards, Prince of Wales; a testament to Cèsar Ritz’s trendsetting hotel. The Ritz London’s legacy lasts on the edge of Green Park, facing Piccadilly with its name illuminated in those iconic bright, glittering lights. Always a symbol of luxury, The Ritz has been a magnet to the fashionable throughout its more than 100-year history. ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’ was an expression inspired by the establishment, and was immortalised into pop-culture with a song and musical to follow in the late 1920s. Noel Coward wrote songs about the hotel and in 1921, Charlie Chaplin required 40 policemen to escort him through his fans into The Ritz. And later in the 1950s, American actress Tallulah Bankhead famously sipped Champagne from her slipper during a press conference. Cèsar Ritz, was a man of innovation. His vision was unique for the time, building each guest room with individual bathrooms, double-glazing and brass rather than wooden beds – luxuries which were few and far between at the time. The Grade II building owes its architectural grandeur to Frenchman Charles Mewès and Englishman Arthur Davis, between whom a partnership was made to create the hotel in 1900.

The duo had already designed the Hotel Ritz in Paris, and the Carlton Hotel in London’s Haymarket (which is now New Zealand House), when in 1904, plans for The Ritz London began. A pioneer of sorts too, it was the first steel-framed building of any significance in London. Inside, the details were (and remain) incredibly detailed, and just as famed as the hotel’s façade, in French chateau-style architecture with Louis XVI furnishings. The Long Gallery, which runs the length of the building and links a series of elegant public rooms, was considered a masterpiece in hotel architecture – make an event of walking through the arches, which is an inspiring few moments in itself. After a series of meticulous refurbishments over the past 15 years, the hotel still radiates the true Ritz glamour it has always been recognised for, remaining a treasure not only of Mayfair but of British culture. And of course the famous Ritz afternoon tea in The Palm Court is just as popular as it was when the first English Breakfast was brewed.

top: a menu from 1960; far right: ritz exterior in 1906; right: the long gallery in 1906. Photos courtesy of The Ritz London

Our boutique is located 20 Motcomb Street London SWIX 8LB tel. 020 7823 2176

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The mayfair Magazine | Art

Q&A with… Q: You already sell photographic art through your Mayfair gallery so why launch Photo Democracy? A: We receive thousands of photography enthusiasts at the gallery but only a small proportion can afford to buy photographs by big names. Photo Democracy was set up to solve this problem and to support up and coming photographers.

Art news

Sir Peter Blake’s first major retrospective since 2007 arrives in Mayfair, plus a new exhibition by David Farrer WORDS: CAROL CORDREY

Child’s play Sir Peter Blake, the Godfather of British Pop Art, will be opening his first major retrospective exhibition in the country since 2007 at the Waddington Custot Galleries. Rock, Paper, Scissors, takes its idea from the children’s game by the same name, alluding to Sir Peter Blake’s use of different mediums including sculpture, collage and works on paper. The exhibition is a highly personal one for the artist, unlike many of his previous works, with new pieces that delve into his life and personal experiences through the themes and objects used, cleverly juxtaposing the old with the new. We can’t wait to catch a glimpse into his world. Peter Blake: Rock, Paper Scissors, 21 November -–15 December (www.waddingtoncustot.com)

Q: Will there be work by iconic photographers too? A: The site is about supporting new photographic talent, although I won’t rule out the possibility of iconic names in the future. I hope that we kick-start lots of collections too – there are very few places you can buy signed, top-quality art for the prices that we offer. Q: Can you quote significant increases in value for work by your photographers? A: Photo Democracy photographers are in the first stages of developing a career. Given time and hard work I believe that many will be able to command much higher prices. Q: Will you be able to buy various sizes online? A: Absolutely. Each image is available in four sizes which gives huge flexibility. We also offer an option to see each image in a frame online before a client commits to it’s one of my favourite gadgets on the site! (www.photodemocracy.com)

Amazing animals David Farrer’s exposure to wildlife came while he was working in South Africa and propelled his artistic career towards encouraging the protection of animals. This has been trumpeted through his realistic sculptures, which he creates from wire and papier-mâchéd recycled materials. Farrer’s new show focuses primarily on British animals. He leaves the text of his recycled newspapers exposed to emphasise points – sometimes humorously – about a particular species. David Farrer is on at the Rebecca Hossack Gallery from 5 – 24 December (www.r-h-g.co.uk)

LEFT: Two Oaks in Snow by Colin Homes

right: fairies: night by sir peter blake, 1982, Image Courtesy of Waddington Custot Galleries; below: mad march hare by david farrer

Giles Huxley-Parlour on the launch of his affordable, online photography website, Photo Democracy

Exhibition Focus:

Illuminated manuscripts have inspired many traditional Christmas cards. This month, Carol Cordrey explores the history and significance of these ancient pages and how they have come to be a part of our modern way of life

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Illuminated manuscripts remain one of the few facets of art 30

The mayfair Magazine | Art

Images: The Wilton Diptych English or French (?) about 1395-9 © The National Gallery, London

t’s that special time of year when all the saints come marching in via beautiful, richly coloured Christmas cards. The sources of many of the images that we enjoy today are immensely old illuminated manuscripts or church works of art such as altarpieces. The purpose of church imagery has been to aid religious instruction and devotion, particularly important in past centuries when illiteracy was widespread. The Wilton Diptych altarpiece (circa 1395-9) in the National Gallery is small but immensely popular, so details of images within its two hinged and folding panels have been used for four different Christmas card designs. Heavily guilded and beautifully painted in egg tempera on oak by an unknown artist, its name derives from its former home, Wilton House in Wiltshire. The cards feature the kneeling King Richard II being presented to a heavenly group by three saints who were of personal importance to the King; a close-up of one of the saints, Edward the Confessor to whom Richard prayed during troubled times by visiting Edward’s Westminster Abbey shrine; the Virgin and Child surrounded by angels and a close-up of three of the standing angels whose blue robes clearly display a white hart which is a heraldic device of King Richard’s. The literal meaning of manuscripts is ‘written by hand’ but to be classified as ‘illuminated’ they have to be decorated in colours that often include gold or silver which reflect the light and enhance their beauty. Nonetheless, these terms hardly do justice to documents and pages from books that monks or nuns, scribes and artists spent days or even months creating with the greatest skills in calligraphy and painting. In ancient times, documents were created as scrolls until the book or codex was developed. Illuminated manuscripts were made of stretched animal skins (parchment or vellum) which was stronger than papyrus and therefore more suited to regular turning of pages. Generally, illuminated manuscripts were created in Europe from the fifth to the beginning of the 15th century at which point the invention of the printing press ended the regular need for them.

The genre of illuminated manuscripts spans a large variety of documents and books such as Book of Hours (containing prayers), the Book of Kells (containing four Gospels) and Bibles and the reason that many of them survive today is due to our long history of handing down much loved or religiously significant books. As electronic versions of the written word become more popular, they intensify our desire to treasure old books and manuscripts which represent bygone eras and wonderful craftsmanship. It is worth noting that aside from the very rare ones, illuminated manuscripts remain one of the few facets of art that are neither highly fashionable nor commercialised. There are large numbers of them retained in the British Library, but they can be bought through specialist dealers such as Mayfair’s own Sam Fogg and Maggs Bros. Current stock at Sam Fogg includes the very fine Book of Hours (circa 1520) made for Abbot Guillaume Braque of Velenciennes, France, consisting of 36 paintings within its 230 vellum leaves. Among them are key Christmas-related scenes, such as the Nativity and the Adoration of the Magi. One of the numerous manuscripts at Maggs Bros. is a richly illuminated miniature with little script from a Book of Hours from Lyon (circa 1490) featuring the miracle of St. Nicholas bringing back to life three boys. This Greek bishop and saint was revered for his miracles and gifts of money to children and in England hundreds of churches were named after him. Saint Nicholas Day became 6th December and his namesake, Santa Claus, from his association with that month and the giving of gifts. (nationalgallery.org.uk; samfogg.com; maggs.com)

that are neither highly fashionable nor commercialised’ 31

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The mayfair Magazine | Art

BONHAMS | PRIZE LOT The Marouf Collection, Part I: 18th century Meissen porcelain Particulars: Expected Value (item): £500,000 - £700,000 Expected Value (auction): £1,400,000 - £1,900,000 Estimated Range: £400 - £600 to £500,000 - £700,000 No. of Lots: 88 Place: Bonhams, New Bond Street, London Date: 5 December, 1:30pm

wning a set of fine Meissen is a timeless investment today, just as it was in the 18th century, when this ‘Half-Figure Service’ of teawares was made, circa 1723-24. The set was made by the famous porcelain painter Johann Gregorius Höroldt when porcelain decoration was still a new concept in Europe, with each piece marked with its signature crossed swords that Meissen is known for. Gregorius Höroldt was a highly influential painter during his 50-year tenure at the Meissen manufactory from 1720 onward. The ‘Half-Figure Service’ decoration is widely considered to be among the finest of all Meissen Chinoiserie painting. This set depicts a Chinoiserie scene with intricate half-length figures in a range of settings, each of which is painted with a gilt scrollwork cartouche filled with Böttger lustre and embellished with iron-red and purple scrollwork, gilt scroll

and strapwork borders to the rims. Gold detail decorates the inside of the pieces, as well as the handles and exterior. The set comprises of three double-handled beakers and saucers with crossed sword marks in underglaze-blue, which are incised in the inside footrim of each saucer. There is also an additional doublehandled beaker (with crossed swords marked in blue enamel) and two teabowls and saucers with the same marks of authenticity. Completing the set is an oval sugar bowl and cover (K.P.M and crossed swords mark in underglazeblue), a milk jug and cover (crossed swords mark in blue enamel) and a hexagonal tea canister and cover. The ‘Half Figure Service’ is an intricate work ideal for collectors of Meissen, or for those who simply have an eye and appreciation for brilliant craftsmanship and detail in porcelain. (www.bonhams.com)

Image: Courtesy of Bonhams

The mayfair Magazine | Art

christie’s | PRIZE LOT Bernard II van Risenburgh’s ormolu-mounted Japanese lacquer secretaire-à-abattant

Particulars: Expected Value (item): £3,000,000 - £5,000,000 Expected Value (auction): £20 million

his auction is the second part of the ‘Masterpieces Formerly in the Collection of Monsieur and Madame Riahi’ – a name synonymous with French 18th-century furniture and works of art, patronage and dedication to l’art français. The collection is based on M. Riahi’s belief that 18th-century French decorative arts are one of the summits of human achievement; a moment of balance and perfection in design, materials and execution. At this auction, an ormolu-mounted Japanese lacquer secretaire-à-abattant, circa 1755, will be showcased as part of the Louis XV lacquer furniture made by Bernard II van Risenburgh. The only other comparable secretaire is housed in the Royal Collection. Though one of a small group of secretaires was made by BVRB with the same dimensions, overall form, mounts and marble tops, the majority were executed in marquetry as the use of lacquer panels was extremely expensive, thus extremely rare and reserved only for the most prestigious clients. This piece comes with a rich history, having almost certainly been formerly in the renowned collection of Madame de Pompadour, as recorded in Lazare Duvaux’s journal of 19 February 1757. It then entered the collection of Dukes of Richmond at Goodwood House in Sussex in 1765, where it remained until 1993. Some additional examples of Louis XV lacquer furniture by Bernard II van Risenburgh include an exquisite and delicate bureau en pente and two commodes, one in Japanese, the other in Chinese lacquer. (www.christies.com)

Estimated Range: £10,000 - £5,000,000 No. of Lots: 50 Place: Christie’s, King Street Date: 6 December

Image: Christie’s Images Ltd

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The mayfair Magazine | Art

SOTHEBY’S | PRIZE LOT Raphael’s auxiliary cartoon for the ‘Head of an Apostle’

affaello Sanzio who has ever lived. The (1483 – 1520), sheer beauty of this work known as Raphael, is utterly breathtaking – is one of the and the way in which it undisputed masters of High allows us to join Raphael Renaissance painting from as he created his last great his work from over half a masterpiece is hugely millennium ago. This month, exciting,’ says Cristiana Head of an Apostle is to be Romalli, Senior Director auctioned – a beautiful black in the Department of chalk drawing which is Old Master Drawings at considered to be an incredibly Sotheby’s. significant work within the Of Raphael’s late works, artist’s oeuvre: a working it is The Transfiguration for ‘auxiliary cartoon’ for The which the largest number Transfiguration, which of studies survives. No is known to be Raphael’s fewer than 17 drawings greatest late work for The Transfiguration are commissioned by Cardinal known. Nine of these Giulio de’ Medici around (including the one to 1516. For Raphael’s most be sold) were recently important works, he used reassembled, alongside auxiliary cartoons to explore other related material, in the subtlest details and aspects the acclaimed exhibition of the poses and modeling of on the late works of the figures in his paintings. Raphael in the Prado The resulting auxiliary Museum in Madrid. cartoons include some of the (www.sothebys.com) most supremely magical works on paper that this Renaissance Particulars: master ever produced. Similar to the impact of The Expected Value (item): Transfiguration in the history £10 million - £15 million of art, which anticipated much Expected Value (auction): later styles including Baroque, £33.4 million - £49.6 million the drawings relating to it Estimated Range: were unlike anything £40,000 - £60,000 to previously seen in Raphael’s £10 million - £15 million oeuvre or anywhere else. No. of Lots: ‘This very moving study 50 is a paramount example of Place: Raphael’s draughtsmanship – Sotheby’s, New Bond Street and shows exactly why he is revered as very possibly Date: 5 December the greatest master of drawing Image: © Sotheby’s

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The mayfair Magazine | Collection

f you’re the sort of person who appreciates the intricacies of mechanical timepieces, chances are you’ll value the exquisite craftsmanship that can go into housing them. Driven by the same admiration of exceptional engineering, Germany’s Buben&Zörweg have been exploring the limits of technology and workmanship since 1995. Founded by two childhood friends, Gröbminger Harald Buben and Christian Zörweg, within just a few years the company had become the market leader in the design and manufacture of watch winders and mechanical table and wall clocks. Combining their two areas of expertise – watch winding and timekeeping – in 2006 Buben&Zörweg created their first Objects of Time; multi-functional models that in addition to winders and clocks boasted cigar humidors, liquor bars, safes and high-performance hi-fi systems. The company’s Grand Collector XL (right, € 76,900) features a high-security safe, 60 watch winders and a Buben&Zörweg signature clock. Elsewhere, its Orbit Tourbillon Connoisseur comes equipped with a humidor, bar and an optional HiFi system with Bluetooth and iPhone/ iPod docking station. More than simply somewhere to store your treasured possessions, Buben&Zörweg’s elegant creations are sure to form the focal point of any interior space. (www.buben-zorweg.com)

Sophisticated storage:

A time & a place Equipped with safes, humidors and MP3 stereos, Buben&Zörweg Objects of Time do much more than monitoring the minutes of the day WORDS: RICHARD BROWN 39

Swiss movement, English heart

Swiss made / High-tech ceramic bezel and bracelet centre / Marine-grade stainless steel/PVD rose gold case and bracelet / Anti-reflective sapphire crystal / SuperLuminova ďŹ lled hands and indexes / Deep-etched back plate engraving / Luxury presentation case and owners handbook TM

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The mayfair Magazine | Collection

Watch news For treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces, watch this space... WORDS: RICHARD BROWN

Mechanical masterpieces The company produces one of the most complex and revered grand complications in watchmaking, so it was no surprise that when Patek Philippe invited VIP customers and members of the press to view a unique collection of 18 Minute Repeaters, the invitations were snapped up immediately. The exhibition, hosted on 10 and 11 October in London’s Lancaster House, was attended by Patek President Thierry Stern and included the Patek Philippe Ladies First Minute Repeater (Ref. 7000R) and the Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Monopusher Chronograph. Only eclipsed by the grand/petite sonnerie in its complexity, a minute repeater will sound the time to the nearest minute upon demand. (www.patek.com)

Out of this world Unless you’ve been holed up in a cave for the last six weeks, you will have either seen, heard or read that Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner has become the first human to break the speed of sound under gravity alone. In doing so with the all-new El Primero Stratos Flyback Striking 10th chronograph on his wrist, Baumgartner made Zenith the first watch manufacturer to have a timepiece cross the sound barrier in a near space environment, a fitting claim for a watch already equipped with the world’s most accurate automatic chronograph movement. An exact replica of the watch worn by Baumgartner can be purchased from Zenith stockists for £6,100. (www.zenith-watches.com)

A master meets a master Berlin’s Kraftwerk building formed the backdrop for the international unveiling of the Royal Oak Offshore Michael Schumacher Chronograph in October. The converted ex-power station welcomed reporters from around the world to its disused confines as Audemars Piguet presented its latest horological collaboration. Two blue and five red stars on the watch’s dial symbolise Schumacher’s record seven championship victories, while a black and white scale pattern pays homage to the checkered flags the legendary driver achieved. The 1,600 limited-edition watches come in titanium (£31,550), 18-karat pink gold (£55,000) and platinum (£83,590). (www.audemarspiguet.com) 41

For him

The power of

purple

In a season where berry shades dominated fashion catwalks, purple reigns supreme. This A/W12, pick the gifts and accessories devoted to this regal colour of luxury and extravagance #1 London Triple Satchel Bordeaux, £995, Dunhill (www.dunhill.com) #2 Travel backgammon set £250, Aspinal of London (www.aspinaloflondon.com) #3 Vintage PW1 pocket watch, £1,800 Bell & Ross (www.bellross.com) #4 Sterling purple cufflinks, £56 Ettinger (www.ettinger.co.uk) #5 Elephant daisy printed tie £65, Thomas Pink, (www.thomaspink.com) #6 PAM00496, £28,500 Panerai (www.panerai.com) #7 Zip-top pouch, £120, Gucci (www.gucci.com) #8 Collection Excellence Platine: Patrimony Contemporaine Automatic, £41,530 Vacheron Constantin (www.vacheron-constantin.com) #9 Playing cards, £75, Asprey (www.asprey.com) #10 Woven-wool bow tie, £95, Alexander Olch (www.olch.com) #11 Leather hip flask, £90 Thomas Lyte (www.thomaslyte.com) #12 Small and medium Explorer holdall, £399 and £485 respectively, Tusting (www.tusting.co.uk) #13 Calfskin pocket jotter, £70 Noble Macmillan, (www.noblemacmillan.com) #14 Bale magenta and navy club stripe tie, £24.95, Charles Tyrwhitt (www.ctshirts.co.uk) #15 Sunburst lilac cufflinks, £175, Aspinal of London (www.aspinaloflondon.com) 42

The mayfair Magazine | Collection

#13 #9

#14 #12

#10

#11

#15

Quantum precision SalonQP has taken just four years to cement its place on the international watch event calendar. Taking up residence in the Saatchi Gallery for the second year running, 2012’s event proved that in a sea of economic instability, the watch industry remains as buoyant as ever, writes Richard Brown

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: High Jewellery Dentelle Diamond, Breguet; THE Event (photography: Ghislaine SalabertMougin); BMW Power Reserve, Ball; Piece Unique for Harrods, Franck Muller

sk the CEO of any high-end watch manufacturer how the ‘Great Recession’ has affected their business and they’ll tell you it hasn’t. They’ll talk about new ventures in new (eastern) markets and lyricise about innovation and streamlining but words like cut-backs and redundancies aren’t ones you’ll hear in the watch-making world. No; expansion, openings and launches are the words leaving the lips of the industry’s most senior servants. As belts have tightened across other areas of the global economy, there has been no let-up in the demand for Swiss-made timepieces. Despite hiccups in 2009, when Switzerland’s exports slowed for the first time in several recordbreaking years, exports to markets across the world have been swelling ever since. Indeed, according to figures released from the Swiss Watch Industry Federation last year, of Patek Philippe, Rolex and Omega’s 2010-11 top 30 markets, only Taiwan reported a slump. And of the British watch-making industry? While it may have been slow to capitalise on the sector’s unprecedented growth, Britain now boasts a roster of burgeoning brands. In the year that a George Daniels auction achieved

more than £8.2 million at Sotheby’s, Bremont opened its first stand-alone store, Peter Speake-Marin launched no less than four new timepieces and Schofield sold out of both of its debut collections. So this brings us to this year’s SalonQP. As was the case in 2011, the Saatchi Gallery played host as a mix of media, industry moguls and horological fanatics descended on the UK’s only fine watch exhibition. Amongst a programme packed with discussions, workshops and interactive watchmaking activities, 54 brands were present, spanning from industry heavyweights like Vacheron Constantin and Girard-Perregaux to smaller independent makers including Urwerk and MB&F. What, then, constituted highlights? Worthy of note were those watches making their debuts at the show. When we interviewed TAG Heuer’s Honorary Chairman Jack Heuer back in the summer, he spoke extensively about the company’s MikrotourbillonS. Enjoying its first UK outing, the timepiece impressed not only by virtue of being regulated by the world’s fastest tourbillion but also as a result of its sleek styling and split-dial design. The presence of the Meridian Watch

The mayfair Magazine | Collection

Company heralded the entrance of a brand new marque to the watch-making arena, and (by manufacturing their creations on home soil) an English one at that. Indeed, Made-in-England became a recurring theme. In addition to the likes of Bremont, Robert Loomes and Schofield, Speake-Marin was also promoting the best of British. Boasting a new movement, dial and case, yet retaining the sophistication that has come to signify the brand, the company’s Spirit Mark 2 proved particularly popular. In 2011, a customised Harley Davidson bejewelled with a Bell & Ross timepiece drew some of the biggest crowds. This time, it was an example of seafaring, rather than road-faring, engineering that attracted attention. For 130 years, Englishman Thomas Mercer was the undisputed leader in marine chronometers. Testament, again, to the current revival of British horology, 2012 saw the welcome relaunch of this venerable brand. The Thomas

‘Indeed, Made-in-England became a recurring theme’ Mercer Classis chronometer features an ebony body produced by the internationally renowned furniture manufacturer Linley and a façade emblazoned with the silhouettes of the most celebrated ships from the age of discovery. You’d certainly want one in your study. Fresh off the back of winning 00/24 Watch World magazine’s 2012 Readers’ Watch of the Year award with its Watch Engineer Hydrocarbon Ceramic XV, Ball presented its collaborative effort with BMW. Paying homage to the distinctive hallmarks of the German manufacturer’s automobiles, the American watchmaker has produced a range of lightweight, shock-absorbing watches. While they’re unlikely to find as much favour as the Hydrocarbon Ceramic XV, the range’s sharp looks and defined angles will appeal to those with a penchant for the sportier timepiece.

Those who ventured up to the Saatchi Gallery’s second floor were treated to a unique collection of one-off timepieces presented by Harrods. Commissioning the likes of Audemars Piguet, Breguet, Franck Muller and more to produce stand-alone pieces, the department store found a novel way of celebrating the first anniversary of its Fine Watch Room. With a case, bezel, crown and bracelet adorned with 621 brilliant-cut diamonds, Audemars’ 7.45 carat Ladies Tuxedo Automatique gave bling-lovers something over which to salivate, while Roger Dubuis’ intricate Excalibur World Time was reinvented with the substitution of its ‘London’ time zone for a ‘Harrods’ time zone, a quirky twist on an already eccentric piece. In a gallery featuring watches as complicated as Harry Winston’s Opus 12 and as high-tech as the Slyde by HD3, it was fascinating to enter Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie’s enchanting Mastery of Time. Featuring mesmerising artefacts from as far back as the 15th century, the exhibition highlighted the sort of history and passion that has rendered the watch industry seemingly recession-proof.

Floris is delighted to announce the opening of a new Bespoke Perfumery Boutique at 147 Ebury Street, Belgravia, 282 years since Mr and Mrs Floris opened the doors to their first Perfumery at 89 Jermyn Street.

The mayfair Magazine | Collection

Jewellery news Jewels, gems, pearls and diamonds; the essential components of any jewellery collection WORDS: OLIVIA SHARPE

Natural collection Jewellery designers have often looked to nature to find their inspiration. At the recent Biennale des Antiquaires exhibition in Paris, Wallace Chan’s display of delicate butterfly pieces was the talk of the show; and although Van Cleef & Arpels’ ‘Palais de la Chance’ collection mainly drew upon eternal symbols of luck and fortune, the French jewellery house managed to incorporate its signature organic designs with floral patterns and a Coccinelle (ladybird) Mysterieuse clip. Meanwhile, De Beers’ latest seven-piece, all-white diamond and platinum jewel collection, entitled ‘Imaginary Nature’ aims to capture that moment of metamorphosis in nature; for example, a bird about to draw its wings or a flower on the brink of bloom. (www.debeers.com)

Diamonds fit for a Duchess With 16 years of experience and 7,000 private commissions of Fine Statement Jewellery under its belt, Robinson Pelham was an unsurprising choice for Carole and Michael Middleton when they had to select a brand to commission bespoke earrings for their daughter’s royal wedding. Previously By Appointment Only, the Fine Jewellery brand has now opened its first flagship store on Kensington’s Elystan Street, to promote the brand’s ready-to-wear collection. As a result, the trio behind the brand – Vanessa Chilton, Zoe Benyon and Kate Pelham Burn – have also launched six new collections, all of which will be available alongside the Couture Commission Service. The new ready-to-wear collections, ranging from £1,000 to £20,000, will include ‘Elystan’, in honour of their new home, along with ‘Drusy’, ‘Orb’, ‘Champagne’ and ‘Maratea’. (www.robinsonpelham.com)

CUTTING EDGE In celebration of its 175th anniversary, Tiffany & Co. presents its ‘Legacy’ collection, featuring the precious gem stones that the jeweller initially introduced to the world. Executive vice president at Tiffany & Co. Jon King comments:

‘The story of how these gemstones were discovered and introduced is truly inspiring. Our 175th anniversary is the perfect occasion to celebrate our heritage by showcasing these exquisite stones in one-of-a-kind jewels which so perfectly reflect Tiffany’s brilliant design legacy’ Above: Anniversary Morganite necklace and matching earrings, from a selection, Tiffany & Co. (www.tiffany.co.uk) 47

For her

Midnight in

Paris

Make the most of the long nights this winter and sparkle in cool, white diamonds, brilliant crystals and deep, inky sapphires

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#1 Cultured South Sea pearl opera length necklace with diamond petal clasp in platinum from a selection, Tiffany & Co. (www.tiffany.co.uk) #2 Cosmos watch in white gold and diamonds with a black satin strap, from a selection, Chanel (www.chanel.com) #3 Rhodium-plated cubic zirconia earrings, £155, Kenneth Jay Lane (www.net-a-porter.com) #4 Magnolia necklace, from a selection, Mikimoto Regalia (www.mikimoto.co.uk) #5 Dolphin ring in 18-karat white gold, from a selection Boodles Wonderland Collection (www.boodles.com) #6 La Mini D de Dior 19mm watch in white gold with falcon eye dial and diamonds, £7,800 Dior (www.dior.com) #7 Art Deco platinum, sapphire and diamond ring, £6,450 Heirlooms (www.net-a-porter.com) #8 Tonda small crystalembellished leather clutch, £293, Diane Von Furstenberg (www.dvf.com) #9 Cape Gooseberry pendant, from a selection, Mikimoto Regalia (www.mikimoto.co.uk) #10 Fuchsia bracelet, from a selection, Mikimoto Regalia (www.mikimoto.co.uk) #11 W900 Belisama diamond automatic watch, £1,150 Christopher Ward (www.christopherward.co.uk) #12 Main de Fatma earrings from a selection Van Cleef & Arpels (www.vancleefarpels.com) #13 Cabochon Falls necklace from a selection Harry Winston Water Collection (www.harrywinston.com) #14 Crystal butterfly headband £295, Miu Miu (www.miumiu.com) #15 Turquoise Splash ring, from a selection, Harry Winston Water Collection (as before) #16 1920s platinum, diamond and sapphire earrings, £5,300 Heirlooms (www.net-a-porter.com) #17 Ladies vintage watch in 18-karat white gold case with pavé diamond bezel and silver coloured dial, £5,250, Asprey (www.asprey.com)

Make it a Ritz Christmas! enquire@theritzlondon.com

www.theritzlondon.com

Telephone: 020 7493 8181

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

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ultimate Christmas gift guide Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an age-old dilemma: what makes the perfect Christmas gift? This year, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found six show-stopping pieces that will thrill even the most difficult to shop for. The only problem will be how to top it again next year...

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TREASURES OF TOM FORD Tom Ford’s cosmetics are as incredible as his ready-to-wear line and his new limited-edition ‘Trousseau’ is a dream wardrobe of make-up, containing all the iconic products needed to create his classic looks. One large case conceals four smaller ones, one containing five beautiful brushes and face essentials, including his Illuminating Powder Translucent, Shade & Illuminate – Intensity One, Extreme Mascara, Illuminating Protective Primer and Noir Absolute for Eyes. The others contain lip, cheek, eye and nail colours in both natural and bold shades. The finishing touch has got to be the gold plaque that comes with the Trousseau, allowing you to personalise the gift with initials.

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

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GONE A-HUNTING Another hunting season is in full swing. For the man who already has the perfect gun, jacket and boots, this handmade leather lockable gun-cleaning case from James Purdey & Sons is the ideal gift. Created in the heart of Kent, the box is made from British leather and wood, and comes in a rich tan or chestnut colour. It is fitted with all the essentials to keep a gun in top condition between shoots, including gun oil and cleaner, 12 and 20 bore nylon, brass cleaning rods and brass snap caps. It also includes a nickel plated oil bottle and two leather pouches with a 12 and 20 bore brass jag, brush and wool mop and a Purdey Selvyt cloth made from pure cotton.

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COCKTAIL HOUR This Bar Box reminds us that Ralph Lauren is a master of style, in both fashion and life. ‘For me, luxury is a sensibility, an approach to life. It’s not about the season’s newest anything. It’s about personal style and creating an environment of comfort and ease. Luxury is quality and timeless elegance,’ says Ralph Lauren. In keeping with this mantra, Ralph Lauren Home has designed a limited-edition treasure-chest-like Bar Box. Lined with watermark silk, it contains two Broughton Martini glasses, one Montgomery Jigger and Cocktail Shaker, two coasters and a drawer for all your cocktail accessories. A bar that fits within a leather-clad box – what a fabulous idea.

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THE GIFT OF MEMORY

Do you have a large box of old photographs and a melĂŠe of home videos from the Eighties? How about iPhone capturings of the noughties? If you would like to bring your memories to life, Bucket List Film, a unique venture which has just launched on Sloane Street, is for you. The team will take care of the process from start to finish. They will produce a five-minute film of professional quality using your personal video footage and pictures, with a touch of their own filming finesse. Over several consultations you can craft a visual gift for someone close allowing them to leave a legacy that will last forever.

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the way we were Anya Hindmarch has long been obsessed with bespoke pieces. ‘I was inspired to create the Ultimate Box for a friend to say thank you for a holiday. This box features a “Thank You” message in my handwriting embossed onto the lid and opens to reveal hidden drawers, trays and boxes, each labelled with things like ‘hangover cure’, ‘unmentionable’s’ and ‘memories’ and includes photographs of sunny days and drunken nights printed onto cushioned silk,’ says Hindmarch. The Ultimate Box is perfect to fill with memories and to keep forever; tailor it to your experiences with your own messages, handwriting and pictures. What would yours say?

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THE LITTLE BLACK BAG 1955 was a momentous year for fashion, a year when Coco Chanel reinvented women’s handbags forever with the 2.55 – one of the most iconic accessories of our time. This rare vintage piece from Matches shows just how the quilted bags have evolved, keeping the classic rectangular shape with a reinterpreted style. The Jumbo 2.55 (above) is from the 1990s and is made in black velvet with a velvet and gold chain shoulder strap. It is lined with black leather and finished with the signature Chanel logo twist-clasp. If there was a canon for handbags, as there is with literature, this bag undoubtedly would be part of it.

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

Think fast The importance of a well-tailored suit simply cannot be overstated. This month, Burberry have made the quest to find one a little easier with the launch of the UK’s first dedicated Burberry Menswear store complete with a 48-hour tailoring service. The Knightsbridge store offers a wealth of options – choose between three silhouettes and an impressive 40 fabrics, which can then be made-to-measure in just two days. It also features the brand’s main collections, as well as shoes and accessories sections, so there’s no excuses left for not being immaculately dressed from head to toe. Burberry Menswear, 16-18 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge

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Lights, Camera, Action

Miracle for men This month, for the first time, the discerning gentleman will be able to experience the world-renowned restorative powers of Crème de la Mer skincare. Twelve years in the making, the brand was started by aerospace physicist Max Huber, who sought to alleviate the scars he received in a laboratory accident. This Men’s Skin Essentials kit uses the patented sea kelp formula in five essential products focusing on rejuvenating, hydrating and cleansing, making it an irresistible introduction to the world of La Mer. Crème de la Mer, The Men’s Skin Essentials £175, Available at Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges London (www.crèmedelamer.co.uk)

Budding photographers rejoice: Leica have released a compact digital camera with the versatility to cater to all your artistic ambitions. The D-Lux 6 gives you Leica’s signature outstanding image quality and a practical range of focal lengths, in a handy compact size. Experts can refine settings to suit their exact preferences while novices can experiment to their heart’s content. £600, 34 Bruton Place (www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk)

Step into Bond’s shoes MI5 comes to Knightsbridge in the form of Crockett and Jones’s sixth UK store. The world famous shoemaker supplied four pairs of shoes for Skyfall, the latest Bond instalment, all of which are now available from their newest shop in the heart of Mayfair. Step into 007’s shoes with the ‘Islay’ brogue derby boot or the classic black leather ‘Alex.’ Crockett & Jones, 155 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge

The eagle has landed Getting around London is always about compromise. Suffer the ‘cattle herding’ of an overcrowded tube and bus network or pay the ever-increasing fuel and congestion charges and sit in traffic moving at a snail’s pace. But there is another way… electric bikes are fast becoming the best way to get around town. Leading-edge technologies like lithium polymer batteries and reliable high-torque motors mean that the modern e-bike offers a fast, fun and efficient way to get from A to B. ‘Pedal assist’ e-bikes are classed as bicycles so there is no need for any road tax, insurance or a CBT/motorcycle licence. You don’t even have to wear a helmet (although it’s advisable). With a variety of power settings a rider can even select how much help they want, giving the opportunity for a bit of a work out as well. The EBCO Eagle is one of the finest e-bikes available. With a 50 mile range on a single charge (charge time 4-5 hours) it has a number of features including a turbo option and a luggage rack – the ideal solution for battling your way around the city. For more information on the Eagle visit www.electricbikescorporation.co.uk 59

Fashion | The mayfair Magazine

And the Oscar goes to... Oscar de la Renta has earned his place on the Fashion Walk of Fame on Seventh Avenue in New York for his elegant, feminine designs. Now, his first London store will open on Mount Street in early 2013, joining couturiers and contemporary brands from around the world on what has become one London’s chicest streets. The new shop will house the ethereal ready-to-wear collections (below), accessories, bridal, childrenswear, beauty and home. (www.oscardelarenta.com)

e t a d p u e l y st WORDS:

is k at e r a c o v o l

In Léger’s clutches

Benevolent braclets Fashion and philanthropy have come together in the form of a beautiful piece of jewellery. Boodles has teamed up with The GREAT Initiative charity to create two friendship bracelets called The GREAT Boodles Bangles, with one in silver, and the other set in diamonds. All profits from the sales will go directly to the charity to support their campaign for the on-going struggle for gender equality across the world and particularly in Africa – a way to give back, and look gorgeous. Priced at £220 and £10,000 (www.boodles.com) 60

This oversized clutch takes on the glamorous style of Hervé Léger’s body-con dresses. In black leather with an embossed snakeskin panel, it is small enough for a night out, but large enough for all your essentials. Made for complementing Max Azria’s sleek bandage dresses, this season’s accessories echoes the brand’s signature styles to a tee. £730, Hervé Léger 29 Lowndes Street SW1X

Couture crackers The traditional paper hat is now officially so last year – Christmas 2012 dictates that the only thing to be seen in is one of Philip Treacy’s pop-up hats – only available from one of Asprey and Treacy’s limited-edition crackers. Also in the season’s most decadent Christmas accessory is a festive joke and a Stirling silver thimble engraved with Treacy’s signature. Most exciting of all, inside one of the 80 crackers there is a winning ticket for a bespoke hat by the master of millinery himself – a couture Christmas indeed. £1,500, available from Asprey

top: Illustration of the Oscar de la Renta Mount Street boutique; above: oscar de la renta resort ‘13

IMAGE: ALICE temperley photographed by Matilda Temperley

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

Alice’s

wonderland This month, after celebrating a decade in the industry, Temperley will open its new, flagship doors on Mayfair’s Bruton Street. We catch up with the ever-glamorous designer to talk about the next chapter in the life of the brand W ORD S : elle b la k ema n

hristmas has come early for Bruton Street. As of 1 December, the chic little road linking the centralised green spot of Berkeley Square and the everringing tills of Bond Street is now home to fashion’s favourite temptress, Alice Temperley. Joining fellow designer heavyweights Stella McCartney, Matthew Williamson and Maison Martin Margiela, the grand, six-floor Georgian house will now be the flagship of the brand, housing all three Temperley collections (Temperley London, ALICE by Temperley and Temperley Bridal) – along with the commercial teams behind the label. ‘It feels like the beginning of a whole new chapter,’ says an excited Temperley. We were thrilled to find 27 Bruton Street; it is a very important move for us so we wanted it to be entirely right,’ she says with an obvious love of both the area and the street that brings together some of the finest art and fashion retailers in London. ‘It’s a great positioning for us; I love shopping in that area, I love the pub there and the way that Bruton Street connects to Conduit Street then Bond Street.’ The street, as quintessentially British as it 

gets (Queen Elizabeth II was born just a few doors away at number 17), is fitting for the crowned head of British fashion. A product of her Somerset roots and London fashion then art college (she attended Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art), Temperley has become known for her English heritage chic: elegant, feminine designs that will still be relevant in a decade. ‘We are a British brand and I am incredibly proud of that,’ agrees Temperley. ‘I like to think that I design timeless, feminine pieces that combine meticulous detail and embellishments, with an English eccentricity and personality.’ However, despite being the go-to for many an English rose, woe betide anyone who attempts

‘British style is about being able to think out of the box and be individual and not follow trends’ – Alice Temperley

top: long bi-colour alexandria dress, £1,550. left: Long catherine dress, £1,850, both temperley london RIGHT: IMAGE: ALICE temperley photographed by Matilda Temperley

to box the designer into a single group (‘I’ve had enough of being categorised as bohemian,’ she said recently). Aside from her many and varied collaborations (I’ll get to those), Temperley’s dual collections display both her commitment to enduring fashion and an ability to keep up with the more immediate, seasonal approach. The mainline collection, Temperley London consists of the whimsical, flattering pieces that have made the designer famous, along with gathering a list of high-profile fans such as Scarlett Johansson, Emma Watson and Keira Knightley – not to mention the Duchess of Cambridge and Pippa Middleton; while ALICE by Temperley is a fabulous and wearable range, showcasing a more pared-down version of what makes Temperley unique: bold colour-blocking, charming prints and flattering everyday shapes. A self-confessed hopeless romantic, she says that her evening dresses are a fantasy. ‘I love the feeling of decadence and freedom they evoke,’

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

she says conjuring a twirling, dreamy image of perfume and red lipstick. ‘Red lips make me feel dressed!’ This starry-eyed picture is slightly at odds with the drive that must have been required to not only weather the recession, but grow within it. ‘Alice is very smart’ says Erin Mullaney, brand director of online boutique Avenue 32, who collaborated with the designer earlier this year. ‘She established very early on what her brand was about, and she’s never strayed from it. She has created a lifestyle brand rather than a clothing brand. Her parties, her country-meetscity lifestyle, having a career and a family – that all feeds into what she’s about. ‘My style has naturally changed as I am a mother now and have personally grown up considerably from when the brand was launched,’ says Temperley. I am much more practical now. As I work and travel I am more aware of the functionality and different demands of a wardrobe, depending on where you are and what you are doing. We sell in 37 countries and you have to be aware of a balance within collections depending on the demographic.’ It’s clearly a busy time, and along with celebrating a decade in the business, writing a book (True British), opening a flagship and planning new stores, Temperley is also launching several new lines. ‘We have so much going on,’ she says, with the air of a true multitasker. ‘We have several new product lines launching: Temperley Scarves, Temperley Travel, loungewear… In addition, we are now doing two bridal collections a year and have started selling the collection to bridal boutiques around the world, as opposed to only selling it in our own

store,’ she says, before adding that a New York store is next on the list after settling into Mayfair. And just in case anyone was thinking that the mother-of-one was slacking, Temperley also has a list of collaborations that continues to grow at an extraordinary rate, with recent partnerships including John Lewis, Twinings, FiloFax and Barbour, all of which sound terribly British. ‘I loved the Barbour collection!’ she says. ‘I have grown up with Barbour my entire life so I was thrilled to be asked. It was the same with FiloFax – I have had one for as long as I can remember and enjoyed creating my very own designs for them.’ Is it a patriotic motive that drives these collaborations or is the shared sense of Britishness merely coincidental? ‘We only collaborate with brands that have integrity. Integrity is paramount and as an independent British brand, we are thrilled to work with trusted British retailers with family values.’ Ultimately it all seems to come back to the general consensus that British values equate to excellent craftsmanship. ‘I think that good British design is a bi-word for quality,’ she agrees. ‘While British style is about being able to think out of the box and be individual and not follow trends for the sake of it.’ Looking at her portfolio of everything from iKat-print Filofaxes to seductive leather skirts and that green dress on Pippa Middleton, I don’t think anyone could accuse her of that.

+44 207 100 2072

And the winners are…

Lou Lou Graham and Ivona Olszewska, Linley

Stephen Macintosh, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

Alex Neil, Burger & Lobster

Siobhan O’Conner, Anna Casa Interiors

Astrid Haynez, Wild at Heart at Liberty LONDON

Jodie Greaves, Rigby & Peller Barry Klein, Paul Chessell, Taylor of Old Bond Street Michael SmythOsbourne AND Gina Hamilton, Mallett Jose Torres and jesus Adorno, Le Caprice

Miles Nicholas and Magda Grzelka, Taylor Street Baristas

L-R: James Field, Colin Heywood, John Hitchcock, John Malone, Anderson & Sheppard

in association with

Joanna Hansford and Jo Hansford, Jo Hansford Salon

Tereska Ebanks, Four Seasons Park Lane

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Thomas Kochs, Claridge’s

Alex Pakenham and Polly Lavelle, Morton’s

Edmondo di Robilant, ROBILANT+VOENA

Sally Pedder, The Spa at The Dorchester

Alessandro Palazzi and Deborah Dhugga, Dukes

Neuza Loyo, LadurÉe Giacomo Maccioni, Cecconi’s

Ashley Davis, HÉlÈne Darroze at The Connaught AND Nathalie Seiler-Hayez, The Connaught Christopher Durnford, Allens of Mayfair

Edward Bodenham, Floris

Harry Keogh and Suzanne Collins, Coutts

L-R: Hervé Deville, Berengere Penkhoss, Nicolas Bonnaud, Sketch Emma Dexter, Timothy Taylor Gallery

in association with

Images taken on Leica S2 camera / Leica Studio–S (www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk)

Best bar The Coburg Bar at The Connaught

imaGE: The Connaught

The Coburg Bar regularly tops lists of the World’s Best Cocktail Bars, so it’s no surprise to find it a favourite in Mayfair. The extensive menu is a great read, chronologically charting the development of the cocktail over two centuries and providing a staggering choice of wines, spirits and liqueurs. Expertly trained bartenders are on hand to advise the indecisive, and the exceptional quality ensures gambling on an unfamiliar drink is highly likely to pay off. The bar itself has a classic, intimate feel, with cosy chairs inviting you to relax for the evening and the best of concentrate on a thorough exploration the rest of all that the menu has to offer. 16 Carlos Place, W1K (020 7499 7070; The Bar at The Dorchester www.the-connaught.co.uk) The Library Bar at The Lanesborough Galvin at Windows at The London Hilton

Best drink A legendary drink in a legendary bar, the Martini is the natural drink of choice at Duke’s Hotel. The famed bar manager Alessandro Palazzi brews his own vermouth and claims that the key to the perfect martini is getting the balance of the ingredients right. Famously frequented by author Ian Fleming, the classic request for a dry martini – shaken not stirred – is said to have originated at this very bar. This year, James Bond’s signature drink and cologne have collaborated to produce the Fleming 89, a martini infused with the aroma of the best of Floris 89. Literary connections aside, the the rest martinis invented and served at Duke’s are entirely deserving of their reputation, while The Hakka at Hakkasan the glamour of the historic, sophisticated Bellini at Aurelia setting only adds to their appeal. Gold Manhattan at 35-36 St. James’s Place, SW1A The May Fair London (020 7491 4840; www.dukeshotel.com)

in association with

Image: DUKES ST JAMES LONDON, DUKES Bar

Martini at Dukes

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Best patisserie Ladurée Anyone with a sweet tooth will know how hard it is to look into the window of a Ladurée store without somehow ending up at the counter with a large box of macarons in your hands. The French brand has an illustrious 150 year history which includes playing an integral role in the development of the classic Parisian salon de thé, which once provided a female alternative to exclusively male cafés, as well as the invention of the macaron as we know it. The house pays homage to their most famous treat with a new flavour released each season – this the best of winter gives us blackcurrant violet, blood the rest orange ginger or praline. 71-72 Burlington Arcade, W1J The Parlour at Sketch (020 7491 9155; www.laduree.fr) Ottolenghi The Rose Bakery at Dover Street Market

Best speciality food shop Allens of Mayfair London’s oldest butchers have resided on Mount Street for an incredible 120 years and their impressive heritage provides them with an unmatchable quality of produce. The choice provider for gourmet chefs across the country, their Scottish beef is bred specifically for them in Cairngorms National Park; all meat sold can be traced back to the farm. The store won the right to display game outside their shop in a famous battle fought the best of by founder Edgar Green in the 1880s. and the the rest The preservation of this Victorian tradition makes the store one of the most easily familiar Berry Bros. & Rudd sights in Mayfair. Fortnum & Mason 117 Mount Street, W1K (020 7499 5831; www. William Curley www.allensofmayfair.co.uk)

in association with

Best coffee Taylor Street Baristas

Image: James Lambie

Taylor Street Baristas began just six years ago as three Australian siblings’ eminently practical response to the problem of finding a decent cup of coffee in London. Despairing of all existing shops, they were inspired to begin one themselves, working to their own exactingly high standards. In addition to impeccably trained baristas, their secret is the acceptance of coffee as a seasonal product, which means regularly alternating countries of origin to ensure the beans are perfectly ripe. The spread of their business to nine the best of stores over six years is testament to how the rest badly London needed good coffee, and how glad we are that it’s now here to stay. The Wolseley 22 Brooks Mews, W1K (020 7629 3163; The Mount Street Deli www.taylor-st.com) H.R. Higgins

Best burger A strikingly simple yet successful concept, Burger and Lobster is exactly what it sounds like. However, if your menu only consists of three things (burger, lobster, or lobster roll), you’d hope all these things would be done to perfection, and that’s certainly the case here. While the lobster options have been the cause of considerable enthusiasm (think tender lobster piled into a buttery brioche hot-dog bun with a lick of wasabi mayo), it’s the burger that bowled us over. Served with chips and salad, they are 180g of pure, the best of traceable beef served in a home-made the rest freshly-baked sesame bun, with cheese and/or bacon at no additional cost. This Bar Boulud at is straightforward, satisfying food, done The Mandarin Oriental delectably well. Automat 29 Clarges Street, W1J (020 7409 1699; CUT at 45 Park Lane www.burgerandlobster.com)

in association with

Image by Thomas Bowles

Burger & Lobster

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Best afternoon tea Sketch

Image courtesy of Sketch

For quirky, contemporary and utterly delicious afternoon tea, Sketch simply cannot be beaten. Spend the latter part of your day in the fairy-tale surroundings of ‘The Glade’, experiencing its unique twist on the traditional fare feels rather like The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party meets A Midsummer Night’s Dream – both captivating and charming at the same time. Delicacies on offer include quail egg and caviar sandwiches, an irresistible range of cakes and white chocolate and coconut lollipops. Quintessentially British in the best of its eccentricity and style, a spot of the rest afternoon tea at Sketch is a truly unforgettable experience. The Intercontinental 9 Conduit Street, W1S (020 7659 4500; Park Lane The Dorchester www.sketch.uk.com) Brown’s Hotel

Best restaurant for business breakfasts Cecconi’s

Image courtesy of Cecconi’s

Cecconi’s is a taste of Venice in Mayfair. Known as much for its al-dente pasta as it is for one of the best breakfasts in town, the restaurant brought authentic Italian fare to the heart of Mayfair in 1978, when Enzo Cecconi moved to London from Venice. He was the youngest general manager of the Cipriani, and quickly won over the London crowd with beef carpaccio and tiramisu. After closing for a short time the best of between 1999 to 2004 and with a complete the rest refurbishment, Cecconi’s still echoes its Venetian roots – try the exquisite duck egg The Wolseley and hash brown for breakfast, with black HIX Mayfair truffle on top – for good measure. The Fountain at 5A Burlington Gardens, W1S Fortnum & Mason (020 7434 1500; www.cecconis.co.uk)

in association with

Best restaurant for lunch Le Caprice

Image: Courtesy of Caprice Holdings

One of the gems of St James’s, Le Caprice is the place to be seen. Opened in 1947 by Mario Gallati who was formerly the Maitre d’ of The Ivy, the restaurant was closed in 1975, when Chris Corbin and Jeremy King from Mayfair icons Langan’s Brasserie and Joe Allen (respectively), put their heads together to reopen the restaurant in 1981. The combination of Langan’s French cuisine and Joe Allen’s American-inspired dishes has made this a the best of destination for all foodies. With a chic, the rest contemporary ambience, thanks to its black and white décor and photographs by David La Petite Maison Bailey, Le Caprice is the height of elegance. The Mount Street Deli Arlington House, Arlington Street, SW1A Novikov (020 7629 2239; www.le-caprice.co.uk)

Best restaurant for fine dining Dinner by Heston Blumenthal An evening at Dinner by Heston is like leaving reality and entering the famed chef’s very scientific world of food. Part chef, part scientist, Blumenthal’s menu pairs unlikely ingredients, somehow managing to achieve a wonderful balance of flavours. Along with head chef Ashley PalmerWatts, Blumenthal has created a menu that is as innovative as it is delicious, making it hard not to be impressed (look around the room for raised the best of your eyebrows all round). Of the many the rest stand-out dishes, the Meat Fruit is the most incredible – a chicken liver and foie gras parfait cleverly disguised as a mandarin. The Greenhouse Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at The Mandarin 34 Banca Oriental, SW1X (020 7201 3833; www.dinnerbyheston.com)

in association with

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Best chef in Mayfair Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

For Hélène Darroze, cooking is in her genes. Head chef at The Connaught, Darroze boasts two Michelin stars. Her food comes with inspiration and influence from her home in Landes in south-west France, but also largely from her family. ‘They gave me the culture, the education and the passion,’ Darroze reveals. Her signature menu at The Connaught incorporates rich seasonal flavours, each of which may seem like unusual partners at first, but are delicacies to taste. Among the many dishes, Le Homard Bleu (Blue Lobster) stands out, where the the best of the rest crustacean is roasted in its shell and served with green asparagus from Pertuis, potato Alain Ducasse at gnocchi, French morels and yellow wine The Dorchester from Arbois sauce – c’est magnifique. Heston Blumenthal at The Mandarin Oriental The Connaught, Carlos Place, W1K Theo Randall at The (020 7499 7070; www.the-connaught.co.uk)

Intercontinental Park Lane

Best florist Wild at Heart at Liberty London

Image: Nikki Tibbles Wild at Heart, www.wildatheart.com

Walking into the main entrance of Liberty London on Great Marlborough Street is an enchanting experience for the senses, thanks to the Wild at Heart stands placed directly at the doors. Nicky Tibbles added a new dimension to flowers in 1993 when she beat 70 rivals to take up the lease at Piers Gough’s ‘Turquoise Island’ on Westbourne Grove and since then, Wild at Heart has grown into one of London’s finest florists. The second boutique at Liberty London opened in the best of 2008 as the department store’s first the rest in-house flower shop, a collaboration that makes complete sense given the brand’s reputation for stunning and Paul Thomas Flowers unique floral prints. Wild Things of Mayfair Only Roses Great Marlborough Street, W1B (020 7573 9563; www.wildatheart.com)

in association with

Best interiors boutique Linley

Image Courtesy of Linley

David Linley’s knack for turning simple objects into works of art is just part of why the interiors boutique he founded in 1985 is the place to go for decorating your home. From making photo frames into pieces that you would want to always hold a permanent place on your mantelpiece to building intricate cigar humidors in the shape of miniature houses, Linley is the master of creativity and glamour. This is British craftsmanship at the best of its best. the rest Linley, 46 Albemarle Street, W1 and at The Burlington Arcade Ralph Lauren Home (020 7290 1410; www.davidlinley.com) And So To Bed Pendulum

Best shop for finishing touches A recent arrival in Mayfair, Anna Casa Interiors provides an eclectic selection of furnishings and accessories from a hand-picked selection of brands. Founder Anna Dodonova states that her aim is to turn a home into a castle, reflecting the owners’ personalities while retaining a timeless appeal. Her showroom caters for tastes from minimalism to psychedelic. Blurring boundaries between interior design and art, the best of at the recent London Design Festival, Anna the rest Casa presented the debut installation of ‘The Milky Way’ – a sculpture of a cow featuring 13,000 Swarovski crystals by L&B London lighting designer Manooi. Liberty London Asprey 2 Hay Hill, W1J (020 7629 0045; www.annacasa.net)

in association with

Image Courtesy of Anna Casa Interiors

Anna Casa Interiors

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Best art gallery Robilant + Voena

ROBILANT+VOENA Gallery, 38 Dover Street

Headed by Edmondo di Robilant and Marco Voena, the gallery is an exquisite space on Dover Street for showing works of art from around the world. When Robilant and Voena opened the gallery in 1989, they arrived with incredible knowledge of their subjects, coming from backgrounds dealing in Old Master and NineteenthCentury paintings, through to Classic Modernism and Contemporary art between them. It has been the location of a vast array of acclaimed exhibitions, including shows on the International Caravaggesque movement and American contemporary the best of artists Julian Schnabel, David LaChapelle the rest and many more. 38 Dover Street, WIS (020 7409 1540; The Fine Art Society www.robilantvoena.com)

Philip Mould & Company Browse and Darby

Best contemporary art gallery Todd White Art Photography, London; Courtesy, Timothy Taylor Gallery, London

Timothy Taylor Gallery Timothy Taylor first opened his art gallery in 1996 on Bruton Place, with the aim of bringing big international artists to London. Even in the original small venue, Taylor’s charisma and salesmanship proved a winning combination and the current 8000ft² premises in Carlos Place are testament to the success of his vision. Recent exhibited artists include Diane Arbus, Alex Katz and the Craigie Aitchison RA Estate. the best of The gallery has a strong presence the rest throughout the art world, with a publishing house producing books of Hauser & Wirth their represented artists’ work and regular Portland Gallery appearances at art fairs worldwide. Rebecca Hossack 15 Carlos Place, W1K (020 7409 3344; Art Gallery www.timothytaylorgallery.com)

in association with

Best photography gallery Hamiltons Gallery

Image: Hamiltons Gallery © AC Cooper

The UK’s foremost photography gallery has the enviable dual reputation of working with established masters of art while still seeking out up and coming contemporary artists. With internationally known names like Annie Leibovitz, Helmut Newton and Irving Penn on their books, the gallery continues to excite, bringing talented photographers to the attention of the wider public. The gallery’s current exhibition comes from Israeli the best of photographer Kobi Israel and is a the rest haunting travelogue of landscape photography. Chris Beetles 13 Carlos Place, W1K (020 7499 9493; Fine Photography www.hamiltonsgallery.com) Doinel Gallery

Best specialist art and antique dealer Known for providing important antiques for museums worldwide, the internationally established Mallett Antiques have more than a century of experience working with academies and private collectors. They specialise in furniture and works of art from the 18th century and Regency periods, so the gallery’s transference to the grandeur of Ely House at 37 Dover Street this year was fitting. Until recently the building the best of housed the Albemarle Club, famous for the rest members such as Oscar Wilde, and the historic architecture provides an ideal setting for the veritable treasure trove that Sims Reed Mallett has collected over the years. John Bly Maggs Bros. Ltd. 37 Dover Street, W1S (020 7499 7411; www.mallettantiques.com)

in association with

Mallett

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Best boutique for gifts Smythson

Image: Smythson

Celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, Smythson’s of Bond Street is a Mayfair fixture with an unparalleled historical clientele. Fans of their notebooks have included Anthony Trollope, Sigmund Freud and Princess Grace of Monaco, and in recent years exCreative Director Samantha Cameron has helped to keep the brand at the forefront of British culture. Today, its range of luxury leather goods caters to both modern and the best of traditional tastes, with iPad and Kindle the rest cases sold alongside the classic diaries and organisers with the signature featherweight Halcyon Days paper – exquisite. William & Son 40 New Bond Street, W1S Diptyque (020 7629 8558; www.smythson.com)

Best fashion retailer Rigby & Peller ‘Underwear should always be about women feeling good first and foremost. If you get that right, everything else will fall into place.’ Nicky Clayton the creative director of Rigby & Peller told us this back in September and from the brand’s success in our fashion category, it seems the women of Mayfair fully support her theory. The company’s ethos to make excellent quality, well-fitting underwear has seen it through almost seventy-five years in the business, from pre-war beginnings to two royal the best of warrants and seven boutiques nationwide. the rest Its local connection remains strong, with the Conduit Street store just a short walk from where the company began in South Wolf & Badger Molton Street in 1939. Dover Street Market Burberry 22A Conduit Street, W1S (020 7491 2200; www.rigbyandpeller.co.uk)

in association with

Best tailor Anderson & Sheppard

Image by Christopher Simon Sykes

Anderson & Sheppard represents the best traditions of Savile Row, tailoring every suit exactly to the individual client. Its bespoke service relies on a careful process of measuring and cutting, using skills handed down (in 1906, the original mission of the business was to create the perfect suit). It has also recently opened a haberdashery and trouser shop in Clifford Street, selling knitwear, trousers, shirts and accessories. Good news for all, but especially frequent travellers; winter and summer clothes will be stocked all the best of year round, as well as fabric designed for the rest town or country. 32 Old Burlington Street, W1S (020 7734 Hardy Amies 1420; www.anderson-sheppard.co.uk) Turnbull & Asser Norton & Sons

Best specialist goods store Floris Perfumer to HM Queen Elizabeth II, Floris has a unique place in the legacy of perfumery in Britain. Founded in 1830 by Juan Famenias Floris, signs of the company’s rich heritage are evident throughout their Jermyn Street store, from the counter purchased directly at the 1851 Great Exhibition to the custom of handing change across to customers on a velvet cushion. The royal connection has been very much a feature the best of this year, with the ‘Royal Arms Diamond the rest Edition’ released to celebrate the Jubilee. Other options include creating your own bespoke scent at the new Belgravia store, or Halcyon Days choosing from the array of fragrances. Globe-trotter James Purdey & Sons 89 Jermyn Street, SW1Y (020 7930 2885; www.florislondon.com)

in association with

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Best spa

The Dorchester Spa at The Dorchester Hotel

Image: Relaxation Room at The Dorchester Spa

Reopened in 2009 after a dramatic transformation, the spa at The Dorchester is the ultimate escape from London life. As a unique addition to the usual indulgences, their ‘Spatisserie’ is an exclusive restaurant within the spa offering light lunches, afternoon teas and cocktails, confirming the theory that ‘a little of what you fancy is good for you’. The spa itself offers facials from Carol Joy, including the famed Diamond Dust Facial, as well as treatments from Kerstin Florian. To leave feeling completely the best of revived, hire an in-house personal trainer the rest in the Technogym Fitness Studio. 53 Park Lane, W1K (020 7319 7109; The Berkeley Health Club www.thedorchester.com) and Spa Aman Spa at The Connaught Spa Illuminata

Best hair salon Jo Hansford

Image: Jo Hansford Salon

World renowned for its work in hair colouring, this is one of the UK’s leading salons. Founder Jo Hansford opened up shop in 1993 and has become a legendary colourist, with many public figures happily stating that she is the only person they would trust to do their hair. The salon also has a philanthropic side, supporting Foundation India – a joint venture with L’Oreal, helping to train Indian hairdressers in both techniques and business skills. It therefore came as no surprise when Jo the best of received an MBE two years ago. She is the rest still very much involved in the business as she works alongside her daughter Daniel Galvin Joanna, finding it just as exciting Nicky Clark today as she did when she started. Royston Blythe at 48 South Audley Street, W1K The Dorchester (020 7495 7774; www.johansford.com)

in association with

Best signature treatment Vaishaly Signature Facial at the Four Seasons Hotel, Park Lane

image Courtesy of Four Seasons, Image by Peter Vitale

Super-facialist Vaishaly Patel has always done things a little differently. Where most beauty brands are best known for their products, her success has come from her techniques. The combination of natural, effective products and intuitive, individual treatments makes her one of the most in-demand beauty therapists in the world. At the Four Seasons, the facial the best of the rest is only administered by therapists she has personally trained and the anti-aging results Crème de la Mer facials are said to be incredible. at Urban Retreat Harrods Hamilton Place, Park Lane, W1J Jo Malone London Body Treatment (020 7499 0888; www.fourseasons.com)

The Carol Joy Diamond Dust Facial at The Dorchester

Best for men’s grooming Traditionally known as the home of gentlemen’s clothing, Jermyn Street also plays host to one of London’s finest shaving and skincare shop, Taylor of Old Bond Street. The family-run business was started in 1854 by the current Chairman’s great grandfather, and continues to stick to their original ethos of using pure and natural botanical ingredients. The fragrances include signature scents like Eton College and the best of St. James, as well as the classic Sandalwood the rest or Almond. From the practical to the luxurious, Taylor’s has products catering to The Men’s Spa at The every grooming need of the modern man. Intercontinental Park Lane 74 Jermyn Street, SW1Y (020 7930 5321; Geo. F. Trumper www.tayloroldbondst.co.uk) The Refinery

in association with

Taylor of Old Bond Street

The mayfair Magazine | Awards Feature

Best hotel Claridge’s The Art Deco glamour and sophistication of Claridge’s’ is the result of a long association with the world’s finest designers and artists, from Oswald Milne to David Linley, (and over century of history before it). A recital of their clientele could be an introduction to modern history; the favourite haunt of 1920’s flappers, it became the sanctuary for exiled European monarchy during WWII before playing host to Hollywood throughout the 1950’s. The latter era provided possibly the best advert for any hotel: actor Spencer Tracy famously the best of announced that he didn’t intend to die, the rest but if he did, he didn’t want to go to Heaven, he wanted to go to Claridge’s. The Ritz London 49-55 Brook Street, W1K (020 7629 8860; St. James’s Hotel & Club www.claridges.co.uk) The May Fair Hotel

Best hotel room The Grand Piano Suite at Claridge’s

Image: Claridge’s

A lifelong Claridge’s devotee, Diane von Furstenberg’s 2010 collaboration with the hotel has produced suites that represent a perfect fusion of two aesthetics. The designer has described Claridge’s as her ‘home away from home’, and her love of the establishment is evident in the fantastic suites she created for the hotel in her debut interior design project. Von Furstenberg’s nomadic lifestyle clearly placed her in the ideal position to understand a hotel guest’s needs, as her creation more the best of than lives up to the challenge. The Grand the rest Piano Suite, featuring the designer’s Oliver Messel Suite signature prints, is bold and colourful, at The Dorchester creating a chic and inviting environment. The Royal Suite at The Goring 49-55 Brook Street, W1K (020 7629 8860; Duke of Clarence www.claridges.co.uk)

Penthouse Suite by Thomas Goode at Dukes

in association with

Collection Awards | The | Themayfair mayfair Magazine Magazine

Best member’s club Morton’s Club

Image Courtesy of Rob Whitrow

Morton’s Club has been at the centre of London society for the past thirty-five years. This year put the establishment firmly in the spotlight with the opening of a nightclub in its newly revamped basement. Those lucky enough to be members enjoy access to the restaurant, bar and private dining rooms, and, with the launch of 2&8, an elite party venue. The exclusivity of the club ensures that members are provided with a home away from home to relax or celebrate with like-minded people, and with recent private events including in-house fashion shows from Hugo Boss, the best of membership should be top of everyone’s the rest wish list this Christmas. 28 Berkeley Square, W1J (020 7499 0363; The Arts Club www.mortonsclub.com) Annabel’s George

Best concierge service The Coutts Concierge Service is unique in the sheer breadth of assistance provided by its elite lifestyle management service. The programme is only available to World or Gold Card members, but once attained, provides the client with solutions to every whim or problem they might experience. An exclusive events programme also admits clients into events such as V&A exhibition previews, the best of along with every detail from booking your the rest car there and your meal afterwards too. The exceptional service will ensure that everything in your life runs as Bon Vivant smoothly as possible. Quintessentially American Express 16 Cavendish Square, Marylebone, W1A (020 7753 1365; www.coutts.com)

in association with

Image Courtesy of Coutts: ©Dwayne Senior

Coutts Concierge

mayfair

Resident’s Journal

IMAGE: Bikeworldtravel / Shutterstock.com

From the Chairman of The Residents’ Society Dear Resident We are pleased to report fantastic feedback from our resident and business members, concerning the inclusion of our news within The Mayfair Magazine. We hope you all like the format. Any comments you have will be welcome by email at info@rsmsj.com. For those of you who are reading our pages and who are not already members, we would be delighted if you would confirm your interest. The strength of our activities in making Mayfair an ever-better place in which to live and work is based on the support of those who we represent. There are some interesting snippets of information in this month’s Journal, including happy observations on office rentals in the area alongside tasty new offerings from local food haunts Banca and Bo. We hope that you will delve into these pages with some detail, and would be delighted to hear from you on any issues which arise within our bailiwick. Anthony M Lorenz, The Chairman Residents’ Society of Mayfair and St James’s

The Residents’ Society of Mayfair & St James’s Committee Members Chairman Anthony Lorenz (Events & Traffic)

Secretary Richard Cutt (Crossrail & Finance)

Planning Applications Ronald Cottee (Planning)

Membership Pol Ferguson-Thompson (Membership & Website)

Traffic Lois Peltz

Police Mary-Louise Burrows

Licensing Derek Stratton

The Notebook The most local of news and events happening in the heart of the area this month

IMAGE: ‘Romantic Landscape’, BYThomas Gainsborough RA

Landscapes in London In London’s bleak midwinter, remind yourself of the beauty of the British countryside with a visit to some of its best known representations. The Royal Academy’s latest exhibition celebrates the work of three of its most distinguished alumni in an event entitled Constable, Gainsborough, Turner and the Making of Landscape, opening on 8 December. Showcasing major works from the gallery’s collections, this retrospective of British landscape includes seminal works such as Gainsborough’s ‘Romantic Landscape’ (1783) and Turner’s ‘Dolbadern Castle’ (1800). The 150 works included span three centuries in which the style of painting shifted dramatically, and which oversaw the foundation of the RA itself in 1769, with Gainsborough a founding academician. Adult tickets cost £9 (including Gift Aid) with concessions available. (Royal Academy, until 17 February 2013. Book at www.royalacademy.org.uk or telephone 020 7300 8000)

A close eye on crime Westminster council has reported an increase in ‘theft person’ and robbery, partly connected to the release of the latest iPhone. An apt moment for change, and on 3 December the structure of policing in Westminster will do just that. Prior to a wider reorganisation of policing in London next year, Westminster will pioneer the neighbourhood policing teams that will ensure more officers are deployed to frontline duty. Our Mayfair & St James Safer Neighbourhoods Team can be contacted on 020 8721 2419 or emailed at: mayfair.stjames.snt@met.police.uk.

mayfair RESIDENTS’ JOURNAL | The Notebook

Bellinis burst through at Banca Established local restaurant Banca is bringing Milanese culture to Mayfair with the launch of it aperitivo menu from 5pm until 7:30pm. An established tradition across Italy, an aperitivo is an early evening drink accompanied by complimentary bite-size dishes, providing a casual set-up for meeting old friends or new acquaintances. Banca’s expertly crafted Italian cocktails will be on hand, along with a new menu designed specifically to complement the sociable set-up. A perfect excuse to set aside time for drinks with friends after work, this is an Italian import we are very much in favour of! The constant cocktail party begins this November at 30 North Audley Street. (Banca Ristorante Italiano, 020 7647 2525 or www.bancarestaurant.com)

Bo Innovation After holding two Michelin stars at his Hong Kong restaurant for the past four years, self-titled ‘Demon Chef’ Alvin Leung is all set up to take on London. His controversial signature brand of ‘X-treme Chinese’ has previously hit headlines with dishes such as ‘Sex on the Beach,’ the proceeds of which all go to an AIDs related charity. The new restaurant will maintain the originality of his previous work, aiming to synthesise Asian style with British produce in a contemporary culinary fusion. Not one for the faint-hearted or fussy, this exciting and exotic new restaurant promises to provide something more than a little bit different for dinner in Mayfair. (Bo London at 4 Mill Street opens on 6 December) ‘Tis the season For those not yet feeling the Christmas spirit, a visit to this one-man show at the St. James Theatre is a must. Nothing conjures up the mood of the season quite like A Christmas Carol and acclaimed actor Clive Francis is a Dickensian veteran. He first played the role of legendary miser Ebenezer Scrooge in 1994 with the Royal Shakespeare Company, and has been performing his seasonal solo version of the story to rave reviews for the past ten years. Described as ‘haunting, moving, and brilliantly entertaining,’ the performance is suitable for all the family and runs from 11 to 16 December. The intimate setting of the St. James’ studio theatre lends itself perfectly to the timeless tale. (Tickets £15-£17.50, St. James Theatre, 12 Palace Street, 0844 2642140)

Mayfair office rental at all time high Despite the uncertain economy and the tumbling collapse of the euro filtering across the channel, Mayfair’s office market stands robust. According to Anthony Lorenz, Chairman of the Residents’ Society and one of the best-known Mayfair Commercial Property Advisors, the Mayfair office market has defied gravity. But this hasn’t always been the case. June 2007 saw rents of a £110 - £120 per square foot being achieved, but then came Lehman’s collapse in September 2008 and an unprecedented crash in Mayfair office demand throughout 2009 and 2010. However, during 2011 the market picked up and this has continued right the way through 2012, with rents of a £100 per sq. ft. being reported again, and even £150 per sq. ft. rumoured to be offered on 30 Berkeley Square’s top floor with two or three tenants competing for the space. There just isn’t enough quality space in Mayfair to suit occupiers, who span wealth management, hedge funds, oil companies and the like. Furthermore, the move of west Mayfair houses with office use, back to residential, has increased demand, from tenants either moving, being moved and looking for new offices. Most tenants who are in Mayfair want to stay in Mayfair, and accordingly refurbishment and development fuels demand. Supply just isn’t there because even office buildings are being converted to residential with higher values. Amongst those are 77 South Audley Street, 30 Old Burlington Street and 48 Albemarle Street to name but a few. It’s hard to know where we will stop. Lorenz thinks that £100 - £150 per sq. ft. will become commonplace. Will companies collapse? ‘No,’ he says, ‘because unlike retail, the office rent rates and service charges generally only account for 10 to 15 percent of a corporate occupier’s outgoings. If rents go up by fifty percent then the equated percentage on the outgoings only rises by approximately 3 to 5 percent which is tolerable.’ Lorenz explains that office expenditure is a fact of life, and on a 10,000 sq. ft. office floor, a rise of £10 per sq. ft. only equates to employing one extra senior executive, on a 60 person office. Words/ Sandra MacKenzie

The Mayfair Concierge Some of the most interesting requests made to Mayfair’s most experienced concierges

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FIX IT QUICK

Dry cleaners/repairs Buckingham Dry Cleaners 83 Duke Street, W1K 5PF 020 7499 1253

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Electric cars The Electric Car Corporation 1st Floor, 5 Aldford Street, W1K 2AF 020 7495 5270

Luxury car rental Mayfair Prestige 0845 862 2142 Luxury yachts Princess Yachts 64 Grosvenor Street W1K 3JH 020 7499 5050

Rent a Rolls Royce Hanwells 86-91 Uxbridge Road W7 3ST 020 7436 2070 Thames cruise City Cruises 020 7740 0400

LAST MINUTE BUSINESS

Audio Visual hire AV2hire.com 020 3130 0401

Local courier City Sprint 0844 888 4111

Buy / Sell shares Artemis 57 St James Street SW1A 1LD 020 7399 6000

Prestige Taxi Crown Security Chauffeurs 0800 731 5675

International Courier DHL 0844 248 0844

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Watch repair Marcus Watches 170 New Bond Street, W1S 4RB 020 7290 6500

LAND, SEA AND AIR

Charter a helicopter Emjets 23 Berkeley Square, W1J 6HE 0845 3888 248

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IT/Tech support Mike Will Fix It 020 7564 7171 07762 647547

Sartoria This undeniably chic restaurant brings authentic Italian flavours, Milanese-inspired interiors and a touch of London style to its equally stylish clientele. 20 Savile Row, W1S 3PR 020 7534 7000

Private Dining Room Corrigans 28 Upper Grosvenor Street W1K 7EH 020 7499 9943

Translator Central Translations 21 Woodstock Grove, W12 8TX 020 7493 5511

DENTIST Aqua Dental Spa 25 Manchester Square, W1U 3PY 020 7935 5332

Doctor Lees Place Medical Centre 11 Lees Place, W1K 6LN 020 7036 6060

The Mayfair Dental Practice 71 Park Street, W1K 7HN 020 7499 2168

The Mayfair Medical Centre 3 - 5 Weighhouse Street, W1K 5LS 020 7493 1647

LIFE SAVERS

Baby sitter Rockabye Babysitters 9 Wimpole Street W1G 9SR 020 7624 0060 Findababysitter.com 020 7580 6403

mayfair RESIDENTS’ JOURNAL | Concierge

Florist Wild Things of Mayfair 47 Davies Street W1K 4LY 020 7495 3030

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fine brokerage concierge TLG The Ultimate Boutique Fine Brokerage Bureau Expertise Exclusive Yachts and Private Jets Brokers’ Elite Selection. By Appointment only. 125 Mount Street W1K 3NS www.throughthelooking-eigen-glass.co.uk

PARTY TIME

Casino The Palm Beach Casino 30 Berkeley Street, W1J 8EH 020 7493 6585

Late night food Hakkasan 17 Bruton Street, W1J 6QB 020 7907 1888

Fancy dress Pantaloons 020 7630 8330 www.pantaloons.co.uk

Freggo Ice-cream Bar 27-29 Swallow Street W1B 4QR 020 7287 9506

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Massages Mayfair Spa - The Mayfair Hotel Stratton Street, W1J 8LT 020 7915 2826

Maddox Club A boutique sanctuary in which to party, with a DJ booth within a restaurant, successfully creating a venue, where partying and dining co-exist under one roof. 3-5 Mill Street, W1S 2AU 020 7629 8877

Party planner Concorde Media 020 7297 3344 G&D Events 020 7682 2682 Henry Bonas 020 3214 2099

Michael John Boutique 25 Albemarle Street W1S 4HU 020 7629 6969

Spa & beauty Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa 29 Davies Street, W1K 4LW 0870 787 6626

Men’s hair Atherton Cox 18 New Cavendish Street, W1G 8UR 020 7487 4048

Women’s hair Janet Ginnings Hair and Beauty Salon 45 Curzon Street W1J 7UQ 020 7499 1904

Sassoon Salon Sassoon believes that great hair design begins with the client, and creates sophisticated looks that are technically precise, effortlessly chic and easy to recreate day after day. 60 South Molton Street, W1K 5SW 020 7491 8848

SAMPLE THE FINEST

Backgammon board Aspinal of London 0845 052 6900 Caviar Caviar House & Prunier 161 Piccadilly, W1J 9EA 0871 961 9577 Cheese La Fromagerie 2-6 Moxon Street W1U 4EW 020 7935 0341

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Members’ clubs

RECHARGE AND RECUPERATE

Dog grooming Mayfair Mutts Upper Brook Street, W1 020 7409 7739 mayfairmutts@hotmail.co.uk

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Personal shopper Gabrielle Teare 07985 319300 info@gabrielleteare.com

Chocolates Rococo Chocolates 45 Marylebone High St, W1U 5HG 020 7935 7780

Humidors Linley 46 Albemarle Street, W1S 4JN 020 7290 1410

Luxury liquor Gerry’s Wines & Spirits 74 Old Compton Street, W1D 4UW 020 7734 2053

Cigars Sautter of Mount Street 106 Mount Street, W1K 2TW 020 7499 4866

hot chocolate Ladurée 71-72 Burlington Arcade, W1J 0QX 020 7491 9155

Fine wine Jeroboams 20 Davies Street, W1K 3DT 020 7499 1015

Luxury hamper Fortnum & Mason 181 Piccadilly, W1A 1ER 020 7734 8040

The Vintage Watch Co. 24 Burlington Arcade, W1J 0PS 020 7499 2032

Rent a double decker bus London Heritage Travel 01353 863273 This Bus.com 0845 4652 394

Shotgun repairs James Purdey & Sons Ltd 57-58 South Audley Street W1K 2ED 020 7499 1801

Vintage watches David Duggan 63 Burlington Arcade, WIJ 0QS 020 7491 1675

WEIRD AND WONDERFUL

Bespoke perfumes Miller Harris 21 Bruton Street, W1J 6QD 020 7629 7750

Diamonds valued Armour Winston 43 Burlington Arcade, W1J 0QQ 020 7493 8937

mayfair RESIDENTS’ JOURNAL | Planning & Society

Planning & Society Ground-level developments and societal structural changes in the Mayfair area

Planning applications in the local area Application Received: 10 October Address: Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington House Proposal: Replacement of roof mounted plant serving Galleries VII and VIII; formation of openings in the coved plaster ceiling for supply air grilles in fibrous plaster; creation of openings in lead roof for supply ducts. Application Received: 19 October Address: 16 North Audley Street Proposal: Use of the public highway for the placing of six tables and 12 chairs in connection with the ground floor of existing cafe in an area 4.7 x 1.5m. Application Received: 25 October Address: 127 Mount Street Proposal: Internal alterations including the repositioning of timber and glass screen at ground floor level.

Planned road works and closures in and around December STREET

PLANNED WORK

DATES

WORKS OWNER

Green Street, West End

Disconnect and replace existing supply

20 Nov-26 Nov

Thames Water 0845 9200800

2-3 Grosvenor Street

Developer Services Single New Service in Carriageway

24 Nov-2 Dec

Thames Water 0845 9200800

Bonhams Auction House, Haunch of Venison Yard

Pipe laying

30 Nov-6 Dec

National Grid Gas PLC

North Row, West End

Installation of tiles in the private forecourt of the Marlborough Hotel. Some works to the adjacent footway required to tie in with tiles.

12 Nov-7 Dec

City of Westminster

210 Poplar High Street

Upgrade of existing electricity supply

21 Nov-27 Nov

UKPN East & Lon Ltd 0800 0284587

15-17 Berkeley Street

Installation of telecom chambers

14 Nov-27 Nov

City of London Telecoms

Bolton Street, West End

Service installation and upgrade

22 Nov-28 Nov

UKPN East & Lon Ltd 0800 0284587

14 Charles Street

Lay a new gas supply 7m in carriageway and 2m in footway outside

29 Nov-6 Dec

Fulcrum Pipelines Ltd

Curzon Street, West End

Maintenance/inspection of congestion charge camera's on 8m columns using cherry picker

26 Nov

26 Hays Mews, West End

Repair port connection in footway only

23 Nov-29 Nov

Transport for London Thames Water 0845 9200800

editor@residentsjournal.co.uk 020 7987 4320

mayfair Resident’s Journal

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TheThe mayfair mayfair Magazine Magazine | Food | Promotion & Drink

Playing

Power games

Hublot F1™ King Power Austin Watch WORDS: SANDRA MACKENZIE

Following on from its 10th Anniversary Exhibition earlier this year, Marcus of Bond Street’s latest event is the arrival of the Hublot F1™ King Power Austin, a watch to commemorate the 2012 return of the Grand Prix to the United States. Hublot was appointed as the official watchmakers of Formula One just over two years ago, and the resulting timepieces have embodied the spirit of the ultimate motor racing competition, with cutting edge technology and striking designs. The King Power range has produced some of our favourite watches this year, and the newest Austin model is no exception, with a carbon and titanium bezel that evokes a high performance brake disc and dramatic red and black colouring. Described by Formula One as ‘mini masterpieces of horological engineering,’ the watch is inspired by the innovative technology and attention to detail that defines F1 cars, making it a suitably impressive tribute to Circuit of the Americas’ debut season. With only 250 individually numbered pieces being produced, this is a truly unique Christmas gift for the devoted car enthusiast. Available from Marcus Watches 170 New Bond Street, W1S 4RB (020 7290 6500; www.marcuswatches.co.uk)

Dress, £2,190, Atis Artemjevs. Belt £929, DSquared, (www.dsquared2. com). Boots, £1,530, Sergio Rossi (www.sergiorossi.com). Gold necklace, from a selection, Maison Martin Margiela. Pearl necklace, £1,105, Jerboa by Victoria Barker (www.jerboajewellery.com) 68

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

Out of the

shadows Deep colours and rich embellishment make for a decadent mix this season, while demure Victorian shapes contradict the flirtatious transparency of dark lace â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a seductive combination S T Y L I S T: L a u r e n m ill e r P H O T O G RA P H ER : a li c e l u k e r

Jacket, from a selection, Tom Ford (www.tomford.com). Cuff, £899, Aida Bergsen at Couture Lab. Short necklace, £160, Marc Jacobs (www.my-wardrobe.com). Long necklace, £270, Alexander McQueen (www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk). Catsuit, £3,570, Valentino. Hair band, £310, Louis Mariette (www.louismariette.com) 70

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

Coat, £1,344, Viktor and Rolf (www.viktor-rolf.com). Top, £630, Gucci (www.gucci.com). Necklace, £695, Jenny Packham (www.jennypackham.com). Hair band, £290, Louis Mariette (www.louismariette.com) 71

Dress, £1,799, Matthew Williamson at Harrods. Ring, £270, Alexander McQueen (www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk). Headpieces, £360 each, Louis Marriette (www.louismariette.com). Earrings, £17,000, Cartier

The mayfair Magazine | Fashion

Dress, from a selection, Tom Ford (www.tomford.com). Earrings, £430, Jerboa by Victoria Barker (www.jerboajewellery.com). Necklace, £695, Jenny Packham, as before. Belt, £225, Gucci (www.gucci.com) 73

Children’s Festive Activities Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 December 12pm, 2pm & 4pm santa’s showtime

£2 for children and concessions, £4 for adults. Children under 2 go free. visit canarywharf.com to book. tickets are subject to availability.

Every weekend from Saturday 1 to Sunday 23 December plus Monday 24 December 11am - 5pm free art & Craft Workshops free festive face Painting free Magical treasure trail visit santa’s Grotto* plus Monday 17 to Monday 24 December 11am - 5pm visit santa’s Grotto* *visits to santa’s Grotto cost £2. see below for supported charities.

Canary Wharf

bars & restaurants • fashion & style • arts & events canarywharf.com

3 hours

free parking

at Weekends and bank holidays When you sPend £10 at Canary Wharf terMs and Conditions aPPly.

santa’s showtime proceeds will be donated to richard house Children’s hospice.

santa’s Grotto proceeds will be donated to variety, the Children’s Charity.

SHOPPING

Celebrate

the Festive season at Canary WharF With a fantastic line-up of Wintery events, canary Wharf’s christmas offering is second to none

his winter, Canary Wharf will host not only a magical Grotto, stunning ice rink and festive fashion show, but also a range of activities ranging from ice sculpting and face painting to cupcake making and glass decorating. Over 240 shops, bars and restaurants complete the picture to make Canary Wharf the perfect Christmas destination for all the family.

STep inTo SanTa’S GroTTo Launching 1 December, Santa’s Grotto in Canary Wharf’s Jubilee Place returns with a whimsical and magical theme. Open every weekend in December as well as the week before Christmas and on Christmas Eve, excited children can meet Santa in his Grotto and whisper their wish list for the big day. All donations for Santa’s Grotto will be provided to Variety, the Children’s Charity. Meanwhile, Santa and his ‘Little Helpers’ will take to the stage in Santa’s Showtime in the East Wintergarden, keeping the kids (and adults) entertained with a series of shows on 1 and 2 December. Three shows will take place daily at 12noon, 2pm and 4pm. Tickets are free for under 2s, £2 for children and concessions, £4 for adults and will be available from early November, visit canarywharf.com for further information. All donations for Santa’s Showtime will go to Richard House Children’s Hospice.

Santa’s Showtime, East Wintergarden

Children’S FeSTive aCTiviTieS Wind your way around Canary Wharf on the Magical Treasure Trail or enjoy a splash of Festive Face Painting in Cabot Place, Canada Place and Jubilee Place. Canary Wharf also allows you to get in touch with your creative side with some cookie and cupcake decorating workshops courtesy of Sweet Couture, Cake Boutique and the little ones can also personalise love heart boxes and stained glass creations. Throughout December, children can spend the weekends enjoying Canary Wharf’s Enchanted Mirror installation, which provides endless fun for young ones, whilst adding to the magic and sparkle of Christmas. Spend £10 or more at any shop, café, bar or restaurant in Canary Wharf at the weekend and enjoy 3 hours free parking in any of its public car parks.

Boisdale of Canary Wharf, Cabot Place

a Foodie’S heaven To add some glamour to the festive period, experience one of Boisdale of Canary Wharf’s ‘Christmas In Vegas’ packages, which come complete with Pete Long’s 9-piece Big Band and the ultimate Rat Pack singers Iain Mackenzie and Steve Pert. Those looking to warm up should visit ROKA for its popular Weekend Brunch, a spectacular array of dishes, including ROKA’s acclaimed dessert platters. To watch the winter world go by, make for the impressive Plateau Restaurant Bar & Grill which overlooks the glittering ice rink below.

Ice Rink Canary Wharf

www.canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

578 KINGS ROAD LONDON SW6 2DY WWW.GUINEVERE.CO.UK

+44 (0)20 7736 2917

The mayfair Magazine | Interiors

At home with Gaultier From the man who made haute couture out of blue and white stripes, Jean Paul Gaultier and Paris-based interior decoration brand Lelièvre, comes their first collaboration for a collection of accessories and fabrics for dressing up your home. Colourful patterns of roses and geometric shapes and the occasional bit of tartan look beautiful on the pillows, couches, fabrics and curtains. ‘I am only a couturier, my metier is fashion but I have instilled the spirit and motifs from my collections in these fabrics,’ says Gaultier. Fill your home or simply add a few of the cushions to your living room and your home will be as much of a fashion statement as what you wear. (www.lelievre.eu)

Interiors news Celebrate winter with Jean Paul Gaultier and Lelièvre’s new interiors range, artistic plates and a trip to Selfridges’ Christmas shop W O R D S : K AT E R A C O V O L I S

IMAGE: © Damien Hirst and Other Criteria

FINISHING TOUCH

Making a meal of it Art need not be confined to your walls, Damien Hirst is adding a touch of creativity to our kitchens this month with his limited edition ‘Superstition Plates’. An investment piece of kitchenware if ever there was one, the bone china set has 12 pieces, each with kaleidoscopic prints signed and numbered on the reverse (there are only 250 available). Created to accompany Damien Hirst: Superstition at the Gagosian Gallery in London, and Beverly Hills in 2007, the plates display reproductions of his original butterfly grid paintings. We’d be very happy to dine during our Christmas lunches with these plates. £10,500 from Other Criteria (www.othercriteria.com)

Ralph Lauren Home have a range of festively scented candles and home fragrances ideal for impressing the family this Christmas – we love this Holiday Diffuser scented with red currants, evergreen and juniper berries. £45, Ralph Lauren Home (www. ralphlaurenhome. com)

Noël novelties Drop in to Selfridges’ new Christmas shop this month and you will be greeted with the delicious scent of marzipan and ginger cake and an array of sparkling decorations, crackers and trees.

garland, £79.95, Sia Home Fashion, Lower Ground Floor at Selfridges

Wall to wall Inspired by our very own British history, we love this this wallpaper named Albemarle Street (c. 1760). The rich gold colour and fine detail will take you back to a time of pure 18th century glamour. From £54.75 per roll, Little Greene (www.littlegreene.com)

PUTTING ON THE

GLITZ AT

Celebrating 30 years in the industry, Mayfair’s favourite florist Paul Thomas prepares for his biggest challenge of the year – dressing the Ritz for Christmas. W ords : E lle B lakema n

‘The best flower shop in London’ – Vivienne Westwood

The mayfair Magazine | Interiors

here is a night at the Ritz that is very, very special. Few know about it and this year it falls unceremoniously on 23 November, but it’s a night of such unadulterated magic that it couldn’t fail to reinforce the spirit of Christmas even to the most hardened of Scrooges. It is the night when resident florist Paul Thomas and his twenty-something strong team come in under cover of darkness and transform the place overnight into a scarlet and green fantasy. ‘We have one night,’ says Paul seriously. ‘We go in at 11pm. We have to be as organised as we can for that night, so you do absolutely every single thing that you can do before the installation. Everything is wired and ready, garlands have been fluffed up, the wreaths are all pre-made, with lights in already, so we just carry them in and hang them,’ he says. It’s a huge production, as anyone who has witnessed the vast, lavish display in the long gallery, leading up to one of the world’s most impressive Christmas trees would undoubtedly expect. ‘We’re there to create magic for people, which I just love. That is what the role of a florist is,’ he says. ‘It’s so thrilling that at 11 o’clock that night, the hotel is just normal; there are autumnal flowers and people are coming and going off to bed; then when they come down the next morning, we will have just left, and the place is glistening with Christmas – and it’s just like elves have been there.’ This year, Thomas celebrates an incredible 30 years in the industry – every one of them spent in Mayfair. ‘I started in Kenneth Turner in 1982 in Avery Row, then I was in Bruton Street, before coming here 23 years ago,’ he says. ‘I’ve been so privileged. I’ve also been lucky enough to live here as a resident too. Being here so long you do really get to know the heart of it and the way it ticks and the rest of it. It’s very different to other areas, what lays behind the

doors is just magic,’. His enthusiasm for the area is touching, but it is completely overtaken by his ardour for his craft, which remains impressively passionate even after three decades. ‘I enjoy all of it. I always want to surprise people, and if you really click with a bride or her mum, you just want to pull out every stop you can and throw in loads of extras, particularly for weddings because that’s only going to happen once. You want to blow them away. Kenneth Turner taught me: always surpass people’s expectations. You’ve got to, which is a tough call.’ It must be in the days of internet and social media. Expectations run high and twitter alone now stops anyone being able to do something fabulous in New York or Milan, and then recreating it over here. ‘I know!’ he says. ‘It’s exhausting. But it is thrilling; I mean we get our challenges. We do work abroad; I’ve done a series of parties in St Barths, in the Caribbean – we did a huge New Year’s Eve party there – and a few years before that one in Aspen. ‘It’s so exciting actually, because you know you’re going to do your darndest to make it happen. When we were in Aspen there was a snowstorm, and things couldn’t get through, so you improvise. The year before last we very nearly had a calamity with all the roses for St Barts, they all got covered in sea spray because of a storm as they were crossing over to the island. I was actually having to lick the roses to check those that were wet with rainwater and those that got saltwater! Someone said to me, “Do you realise what you’re doing?” and I thought “Well how else would you know?!”. Above the shop, as with a few other selected Mayfair retailers such as Floris, it feels more like a private study in a 

Images: floral arrangements, COURTESY OF PAUL THOMAS FLOWERS

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF THE RITZ LONDON

 home than an office. Beautiful but welltrodden carpets, elegant wallpaper, teacups and photo frames line the path to the computer. And there’s a dog, Berkeley (as in Square). A sweet little border terrier who sits contentedly in the corner; another touch that speaks of a person behind the business. And flowers are personal, which to Thomas’ enormous credit he understands completely. Stories of lavish Jewish weddings where changeovers must happen with rapid efficiency and intimate holiday parties where the fragrance cannot overpower the food, he seems to have a sense for what is needed in any situation. The walls on the stairs are covered with stunning images from various work he has done in the past, Vivienne Westwood beams from the runway surrounded by a floral extravaganza. In the study, these give way to huge frames filled with handwritten notes and letters sent by everyone from Vogue to Clarence House. ‘I’ve run out of wall space now,’ he says. ‘I keep them all – at the end of your working life you have a few photos and your letters don’t you, so it’s nice to keep them.’ The idea of having handwritten notes at the end of a career seems to hark back to another era, which is actually rather appropriate given Paul’s love of Edwardian life. ‘I loved Upstairs Downstairs. ‘The original’, he

adds quickly, confirming his diehard status. ‘There was an episode where King Edward VII came to dinner, and there was this table that they were decorating. Of course now it really doesn’t look that amazing, but to a boy of ten I just looked at it and thought “Oh, that’s so beautiful, why don’t we do that anymore?” And I thought “that’s what I want to do – I want to create these beautiful tables and create atmosphere,”. For a boy who dreamed of Upstairs Downstairs getting the gig of resident florist to the Ritz must have been a moment like no other. ‘It was incredible for me,’ he says. ‘It was really a fulfilment in a certain area for me, because it is the Edwardian hotel – built and opened in 1906!’ Christmas at the iconic Mayfair hotel must be the icing on the cake then. ‘Oh, well that’s my big thing. It gives me such a headache, because it is a month’s work. We don’t change it every year, but we do add to it. It ties in with my ethos of home for Christmas as well, because I hate this business of doing a complete new look every year for Christmas, I think it’s quite sad, especially in the home. It’s really lovely to have things that, you know, as a child, you remember the same things came out every year, the tradition of it, and I think that’s a really important thing. ‘At The Ritz, we’ve accumulated an array of

The mayfair Magazine | Interiors

Paul’s

top tips

for decorating

your

Christmas

tree

Firstly don’t be frightened of having a real tree. There’s nothing more lovely than having the smell of a real tree at Christmas.

decorations, which range from life size reindeer heads, beautiful long red peacocks, and last year we did lovely old silver teapots and milk jugs and sugar bowls – because of the connection to afternoon tea – and we sort of wired them into the garlands. So this year we’re going to go a step further and The Ritz are giving me their teacups and saucers, and we’re actually going to put teacups and saucers in as well, so that’s fun.’ There’s an almost childlike dedication to the enchanting and the fairytale elements of Christmas: the night time transformation and the gleeful collating of bits ‘n’ bobs throughout the year (starting in January at the Maison & Objets exhibition in Paris). He has even hidden huge reindeer in the tree so that if anyone peers in closely they will see them staring out at them. His work all conspires to be more than the sum of its parts and really does end up in something spellbinding. ‘The only way it works is by being bold and lavish and rich, you can’t be mean. Subtle you can do, but I think more is more. With the festive season it’s all about more piles of things, it’s like a Dickensian sort of look, of piles of apples and tangerines and dates and nuts – you want an abundance of everything!’. Never has ‘Well it is Christmas’ been so apt.

Make an event of decorating your tree. Take an afternoon or a day and do it with your family, because for me that is a very important part of Christmas; being with the family, dressing a tree. Don’t be too tasteful! Never be frightened of going over the top. If you’ve got children, put toys and teddy bears on there; if not try some fir cones and cinnamon, don’t just stick with baubles. Always decorate the bottom of the tree, invest in a piece of velvet or tartan that you can drape around tree stands – it looks so much nicer. My best tip, which my partner and I practise, is wherever you go or travel, always buy a little Christmas decoration. It might not even be a decoration, but make sure you buy something you could attach to your tree. And then pack it away each year, and when it comes to that day of decorating your tree, you get out all these things which make you think “Oh, that was when we were in Hong Kong or that was in India”– it’s a lovely thing to do.

858 ďż˝BBR Candles Mayfair Resize-AW.indd 1

13/11/2012 12:19

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

This month indulge in the festive season with Krug, Godiva and hearty British fare words : kate racovolis

Krug’s duet This new sharing set from Krug will change the way you taste your next glass of bubbly. The elegant set includes a bottle of Krug Grande Cuvée and two specially designed glasses by Riedel called ‘The Joseph’, to enhance the aroma and experience of Krug – celebrate Christmas in style. Available from a selection at Harrods and Selfridges

The fruits of the sea J. Sheekey’s new cookbook, Fish, is like a love letter to the ocean and classic British cuisine. The masters of seafood bring together practical dishes for starters, sides, savouries. The variety of delicious recipes include Sheekey’s classic fish pie and a Cri Virunga chocolate crackle bombe with wild strawberries to inspire your next culinary journey. £25, available from The Mount Street Deli and major books stores

From early morning bacon sandwiches and full English breakfasts through to dinner-time roast beef, one of Mayfair’s latest foodie delights, The GrEAT British, will satisfy even the most ravenous of cravings. Newly opened by George Hammer (who launched Urban Retreat, Aveda and L’Occitane, as well as event spaces One Mayfair and One Marylebone) and Tony Zoccola, owner of the East Dulwich Deli, this restaurant is all about hearty food sourced only from around the British Isles, right down to the coffee and wine. The GrEAT British,14 North Audley Street,W1K

Constant craving We love Godiva’s new Royal Swarovski Box filled with over 60 pieces of smooth, melt-in-your-mouth Belgian chocolate. The box comes in suede-adorned in Swarovski crystals with a selection of Godiva’s signature assortment – for serious chocolate fans only. £150, Godiva, 141 Regent Street, WIB 83

LEFT & TOP: The GrEAT British

Food &

Soul food

The

main EVENT

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

With the chilly festive season upon us, Neil Ridley looks forward to those long, leisurely Sunday roast lunches by the fireside. Along with some old favourites, Mayfair has several new contenders for restaurants offering ‘the roast with the most’

espite its many culinary delights, England is home to one of the simplest, yet often most maligned meals in the world: the humble Sunday roast. For centuries, it has been the centrepiece of dining tables across the land; the focal point of the family unit and undoubtedly the stuff of heated debate over its origins and perfect composition. As to just where our obsession began with the classic Sunday joint, many have looked towards Yorkshire during the Industrial Revolution. Families would traditionally slow cook a cut of beef, lamb or pork by putting it in the oven with potatoes and other traditional trimmings before venturing out to the weekly church service – returning home with the family to the irresistible, unmistakable aromas which filled the house and set many a tummy rumbling. But despite its ubiquity, the roast has seen better days over the last few decades, compounded with the changes in pace of city life. Poor cuts of meat and #1 Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s a lack of understanding about how to cook them have (www.gordonramsay.com) dented the resilience of the roast, alongside a few #2 The Market Tavern foolhardy attempts to tinker with the theme (the (www.themarkettavernmayfair.co.uk) complete microwave meal solution anyone?). Thankfully #3 Corrigan’s (www.corrigansmayfair.co.uk) however, London today is proudly in possession of some of the finest roast lunches in the land, and it’s the recipes of old that are firmly on the menu. With a sense of tradition at its heart, Simpson’s-in-the-Strand can count itself among the few London restaurants that have defied major changes to its menu and, as Sunday roasts go, offers one of London’s finest insights into how to serve up a mouthwatering classic. Since 1848, Simpson’s have been carving their roast (either a choice of tender Scottish rib of beef or saddle of lamb) at the table from the original silver dining trolleys. Today, master cook Gerry Rae still serves his roast in the manner that original caterer, John Simpson and his successor, British master cook Thomas Davey, intended: the meat is slow cooked at a low temperature, then rested for around an hour to ensure it is beautifully tender, before being served with homemade sauce using Swedish and English horseradish. The roast potatoes are first slowly cooked in rapeseed oil then 

Top 3

Mayfair roasts

‘The restaurant has managed to infuse the traditions of the humble English roast with the Italian flair for family dining’

LEAd image: simpsons in the strand; ABOVE AND RIGHT: Novikov, courtesy of Novikov Italian Bar & Restaurant

 finished in goose fat for a flavoursome crunch. As for the trimmings, Rae jokes that when he started, he tried to introduce a different variety of cabbage into the mix, which was met with such an uproar, he quickly reverted to the original ‘bill of fare’ in existence for over 150 years. ‘The Sunday roast is probably the one meal that doesn’t need any messing around with,’ he says. ‘In the past, chefs have had a tendency to go overboard, but why break with tradition.’ Rae also recommends asking the waiter to ‘dunk your Yorkshire pudding in the trolley’s

‘gravy well’ before it is served’ – and when the gravy tastes this good, who am I to argue? The tricky subject of the Yorkshire pudding is something which the Italian-themed Novikov restaurant have wisely avoided and while this might be a step too far for the roast traditionalist, what makes the Novikov such an intriguing proposition for a Sunday lunch is its focus on the family. The restaurant has managed to infuse the traditions of the humble English roast with the Italian flair for family dining. While adult diners select their preferred cut of meat (include a 24-day-aged rib of English beef, leg of Texel lamb reared in Gloucestershire or whole free-range chicken), children are told to don aprons and chef’s hats and are given a mini masterclass in pizza making.

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

Despite the lack of the ‘Yorkie’, the accompaniment of roasted seasonal squash, crisp-yet-fluffy roast potatoes, meaty gravy and some fantastic Italian wines (the 2008 Barolo is a perfect spicy complement to the beef) makes the Novikov a worthy contender for the title of best ‘Sunday-roast-with-a-difference’. But if waiting until Sunday for a roast presents a problem for you, Bar Boulud, part of the Mandarin Oriental in Hyde Park, have, under the stewardship of executive chef Dean Yasharian, brought together some classic roast pairings available throughout the week (including Sunday of course). One of the highlights is Yasharian’s rack of pork-to-share – served with seasonal vegetables and mouthwatering caramelised apples, the entire roasting dish bought to the table before the meat is carved. The menu also reflects the chef’s focus on UK-sourced produce, despite his US origins. ‘I grew up on a farm and the food we ate was typically rustic – roasted meat and veg,

so I have a real affinity to the English roast dinner,’ says Yasharian. Of course, one tradition that cannot be overlooked is being able to squeeze in a hearty dessert after demolishing a Sunday roast. Notably, although the menus at Simpson’s and Bar Boulud are hugely different in their approach, neither restaurant has shied away from offering their own take on a classic sponge pudding. Simpson’s sensational treacle sponge, with luxurious Madagascan vanilla custard reminds you why late Sunday afternoons were surely designed for a postprandial nap, while Bar Boulud’s chocolate sponge, with hot chocolate sauce and mint chocolate ice cream is a perfect foil for the afternoon stroll around the park, pre nap. What Sundays were made for. Simpsons-in-the-Strand,100 Strand, WC2R 0EW (020 7836 9112; simpsonsinthestrand.co.uk) Novikov, 50a Berkeley Street, W1J 8HA (020 7399 4330; novikovrestaurant.co.uk) Bar Boulud, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA (020 7201 3899; barboulud.com)

The Yorkshire puddings The general consensus is that it is always best to prepare the batter mixture well in advance (Gerry Rae from Simpson’s-in-the-Strand suggests making the night before) and to refrain from opening the oven door, once the mixture is cooking, so your Yorkies will rise to the occasion. Miles Kirby, head chef of Caravan in Exmouth Market suggests a ‘foolproof recipe’, that doesn’t even require scales. ‘Take a cup or mug and measure out one cup of plain flour. Break enough eggs into the cup to fill it, then mix into the flour. Finally add one full cup of milk and incorporate this slowly to the flour and eggs. Heat some vegetable oil in a Yorkshire pudding tray then add the mix, and bake until well-risen in a preheated oven at 180˚.

Getting the most

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

from your

roast Top chef’s tips to try The gravy Often the weakest link in the roast dinner experience – some prefer it thick and plentiful, others thin and sparing. Stephen Tonkin, head chef at Dean Street Townhouse suggests this red wine jus as the ultimate complement to your joint: Red Wine Jus • 6 shallots peeled and roughly chopped • 2 leeks, roughly chopped • 1 celery stick, roughly chopped • 3 carrots, peeled roughly chopped • 1 garlic clove, peeled and roughly chopped • Thyme, bay leaf • 30g tomato purée • 500g beef trimmings • 1 ltr red wine • 5 ltr veal jus ‘In a large pot brown off all the veg and beef trimmings until well caramelised, add the tomato purée, cook for a couple of minutes then add the red wine and reduce to almost nothing. Next add the veal jus and bring to a steady boil. Keep skimming the fat and scum off the top of the jus and reduce until finished. Pass through a fine sieve and re-season if required.’

The meat Pete Taylor, head chef at brand new The GrEAT British on North Audley Street, Mayfair recommends allowing the joint of meat to sit out of the fridge for an hour or so, to come to room temperature before roasting through nice and evenly. ‘Also allow the meat to rest for at least 20 minutes and use the juices and the vegetables for the base of the gravy, using the oven tray without the beef on the stove top – add a dash of red wine too.’

IMAGE: simpson’s in the strand

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

k r a d r e t af For a night of dining and dancing, Gaucho, Piccadilly is the place to be as the restaurant becomes a dancefloor with Milonga tango W O R D S : K AT E R A C O V O L I S

veryone knows that for a hearty steak dinner in London, Gaucho tops the list. But now, every Saturday night until February, it’s also the place to relax and share some Galante cocktails, Milonga style. At about 11pm, the top level of the restaurant in Piccadilly becomes a scene straight from a dancefloor in Buenos Aires (or Strictly Ballroom). For those unfamiliar with Milonga, it is a type of dance that brings authentic Argentinian culture to the heart of London – for an evening. When the tables are cleared and the dancefloor is revealed, Gaucho’s covered-in-cowhide, dimly lit restaurant is the perfect place for an evening of modern electro-tango revelry. My evening began at the fashionably civilised hour of about 10:30pm. The restaurant was alive and buzzing already, and there was just enough time to have a bite to eat before the dancers arrived (the music began just as I was finishing

my sticky toffee pudding and honeycomb crumble). The place quietened for a moment before breaking into a tango rhythm. All conversation stopped, as the dancers entered the room with a dramatic ensemble and a more than slightly seductive swing of the hip. Surrounded by candelabra, and the DJ and cocktail bar in the backdrop, the pair performed with beautiful finesse, moving sharply and expertly to the rhythm of the music. They used every square inch of the dance floor, twirling, dipping and gliding around. It was a great night to warm up winter blues and definitely one I’ll be repeating. Forget Strictly – from now on I’d rather come and watch the real thing. Gaucho, 25 Swallow Street, W1B (020 7734 4040; www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk)

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

The C o n n e c t i o n

With all the francophone eccentricities fans could hope for, Raymond Blanc OBE is now charming commuters between London, Paris and Brussels. A proud ‘British Frenchman’, he talks Eurostar cuisine, Mayfair eateries and treasured Christmas traditions with Kari Rosenberg

on! Raymond Blanc, OBE is probably the French-est Frenchman living in the UK. Proud of his heritage, while enthusiastically ‘enriched’ by old Blighty’s culture (interestingly he uses ‘us’ and ‘we’ to mean British, not French) the internationally celebrated chef has just been announced Eurostar’s new culinary director for Business Premier passengers, which seems fitting considering his genuine adoration for all things English (as well as all things French) depending on which side of the channel he’s stood. ‘Bon!’ As long as it’s ‘sustainable, traceable, local and fresh’, he is keen to sing the culinary praises of both his ancestors and neighbours alike. Completely self-taught, Blanc was born in Besançon, the capital of the Franche Comte region in eastern France, between Burgundy and the Jura mountains. Inspired to cook by the local produce as was the remarkable Maman Blanc, he started his career in England as a waiter at the Rose Revived restaurant. In later years following the success of Les Quat’ Saisons, Maison Blanc, Brasseries Blanc and Le Manoir, as well as penning and performing through numerous media outlets, Blanc is now feeding weary travellers commuting between London, Paris and Brussels. In his own charming way, over almond-dusted croissants and intermittent ‘mademoiselles’, 

Blanc reminds me that although he’s trained 27 Michelin star chefs – ‘It’s marvellous to see these kids doing brilliantly well, becoming your peers,’– rich Parisian delicacies won’t be the order of the day on-board. ‘There’s a philosophy behind the food that we are serving. At all times it must be traceable and sustainable; down to every fish we lay on the plate, every piece of meat. We will only serve a free-range chicken; you won’t have a fat, horrible, nasty chicken. We are putting serious money into buying the best seasonal ingredients we possibly can. ‘Eurostar is the only transport provider to receive the accreditation of the Sustainable Restaurant Association. I cannot tell you how big it is; most restaurants have fifty sitters, or a hundred sitters and that’s all. Here, we are providing one million guests – a million! – and every meal is sustainable and traceable, and as local as possible. Bon, the food I would like to bring in is more rustic, simpler, with bigger flavours, fresh and clean, but light as well; I don’t like to fall off my chair! Obviously we all love a rich dish occasionally but lightness is what is needed here – we respond to what the modern customer wants today. We cannot compete with the top restaurants; but on the other hand, we can be the very best at what we are doing out of all the train services.’ Stationed between three countries, Blanc achieves his philosophical food goals through using those kitchens local to the country of departure (not a fusion of the two; ‘Voila, voila!’, he says. ‘Quite important to understand’) but he’s always eager to sing the virtues of ‘our’ very own blossoming national cuisine: ‘the revival of our crafts, whether it is cheese-making, whether it is our eggs, our own fish, our own meat, our own curing.’ Again, by ‘ours’ he means British; ‘Oui, of course!’ So he’s British now? ‘No, don’t say that, I’m a very strong Frenchman… enriched by your culture.’ ‘The British are reconnecting with their food culture; we’ve been in a wasteland, we’ve created a huge food factory, for the last 60 years. We have connected food with a commodity that we only value for its cheapness; this six-for-the-price-of-one nonsense, which created a nightmare for the nation. Now it is all changing. Now the consumer is responsible and wants to know where his food comes from. ‘The consumer is raising the standard of the food ethics, where the food comes from, what’s in it, how long its travelled, is it local, is it seasonal, how fresh it

The mayfair Magazine | Food & Drink

is. Is it free range, is it organic? People are now asking those questions, so it’s really exciting when you’ve got a consumer who is more sophisticated, more aware, and yes, now, Britain actually is maybe ahead of all other nations – apart from countries like Germany and Austria who have practised sustainability forever.’ But Blanc does not discriminate: (‘I love all food in the world’) and enjoys nothing more than paying homage to his protégés, many of which are dotted around the capital. Blanc has personally championed and nurtured some of our most famous chefs in his kitchens including Marco Pierre White, Martin Burge, Michael Caines and Bruno Loubet amongst others. A favourite he likes to visit includes ex-head chef at Mayfair’s Texture, Ollie Dabbous, who is now

‘The food I would like to bring in is more rustic, simpler, with bigger flavours, fresh and clean, but light as well’ – Raymond Blanc making waves on Whitfield Street. And he isn’t shy of over-ordering upon arrival. The night before we meet, in fact, Blanc had overindulged on white truffle and ravioli, followed by a herd of hams and charcuterie at Locanda Locatelli, one of his favourite local eateries. With Christmas just around the corner, Blanc plans to head home and spend time with his family. And while British traditions undoubtedly tend to sit well with the chef, French dishes come up trumps where homecooking is concerned. ‘I usually spend Christmas at my parents’ house, like a good boy. I go back to France and see my family and I love it; I love the tradition. But I will always take with me something very British, such as an English Christmas pudding that I have made

myself. Every year, after the Bûche de Noël, we have an English Christmas pudding, flambéed with a lot of cognac and brandy butter; good cognac of course, only the best. ‘There will be trays of oysters, then trays of escargots; six or seven, or maybe twelve – no, a huge mountain of escargots – then the charcuteries, then the main course could be a duck, or a wild boar. It is usually wild boar because I live in forest with lots of oink oink! Rich and deep, with a beautiful wine, a Pinot Noir from my local Burgundy.’ Escargots and ‘oink oink’ aside, top of Blanc’s wish list is a very simple request; to spend the holidays with family; ‘Ah, to be again with my parents; I love them’. With a prompting nod from one Eurostar team member, Blanc adds, in true charismatic fashion; ‘I will take the Eurostar, absolutely, of course!’ Bien entendu. (www.eurostar.com)

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19/11/2012 16:23

The mayfair The Magazine mayfair| Food Magazine & Drink | FoodPromotion & Drink

The taste of Stuck for gift ideas this year? Berry Bros. & Rudd have the perfect solution and will even wrap and deliver it for you

hristmas seems to come and go so quickly these days. With that time of year sneaking up on us once again, many of us will be looking forward to spending a few days with family and friends. But before we settle down to some serious celebrating, there is one challenge to overcome: choosing the perfect gifts for loved ones, friends and colleagues. Some people find shopping really stressful, preferring to do it all online and have it delivered; whereas others find it an absolute pleasure and revel in visiting the shops to soak up the festive cheer. Either way, finding gifts that people can enjoy is a real pleasure, so this year, look to Berry Bros. & Rudd who have a fantastic range of hampers and wine collections, designed with Christmas gifts in mind. With a magnificent array of festive drinking wines, hampers and other ideas, their gifts are all put together with careful consideration and are beautifully packaged. Delivered free of charge to UK addresses, they could also be indulgent accompaniments to your lovingly prepared Christmas luncheon and dinner celebrations. (For more visit www.bbr.com/xmas) Being the UK’s oldest Wine Merchant (their shop, founded in 1698, exhibits a wall which formed part of King Henry VIII’s tennis court, amongst other historical treasures) Berry

Bros. & Rudd historic Westminster premises are like something out of a Dickens novel. And with the traditional festive window display, it is the perfect place to get into the seasonal spirit. On Saturday 15 December, Berrys’ shop at 3 St James’s Street will host an exclusive event – a perfect excuse for Christmas shopping. Jancis Robinson, one of the world’s best-known wine writers, will be present from 2-4pm and will be signing her new book, Wine Grapes. Having been the first person outside the wine trade to qualify as a Master of Wine in 1984, Robinson has since become the Financial Times wine writer, as well as the author of dozens of wine books, including two of the most respected in the world. This latest book, co-authored by Robinson, is an indispensable book for wine aficionados everywhere. So take this opportunity to combine your Christmas shopping, whether it be fine wines, premium spirits or exclusive events, at Berry Bros. & Rudd, with meeting Jancis and purchase a signed copy of her new tome Wine Grapes. Book signing with Jancis Robinson MW Saturday 15 December 2-4pm Berry Bros. & Rudd London Shop, 3 St James’s Street

‘Their gifts are all put together with careful consideration and are beautifully packaged’

Food & Drink | The mayfair Magazine

DINING OUT Hawksmoor W O R D S : K AT E R A C O V O L I S

awksmoor is where the food of the land and sea meet in one, very busy restaurant. A weakness for fresh seafood directed my attention straight to the succulent, beautifully cooked roasted scallops with white port and garlic. This is no doubt owed to the famed seafood chef, Mitch Tonks who heads up the sea-side of the kitchen. But it is hard to ignore the steaks for the main course, which come in every cut imaginable. The fillet is by far the safe option; lean and perfectly portioned and left on the heat for just long enough to have it arrive on your plate as rare or well-done as you want. For the more daring, the T-bone is delicious, but also a triumph if you are able to finish the entire cut, weighing in at an 800g or 900g minimum size. It will arrive at your table, quite rustically, in a skillet and pre-sliced (if you choose to leave the hard work to the chefs). Add some triple-cooked chips and your belly and tastebuds will have little to complain about. A side of grilled bone marrow (which are enormous) brings a wonderfully creamy texture to pair with the steak. The ambience is relaxed: there are no white tablecloths here. The interiors are made from reclaimed items, creating a homely feel, but the injection of emerald green gives it that modern and shiny-new effect, as you’d expect with a new restaurant. With its chic décor, great service and simple, well-cooked food, Hawksmoor happily fills the niche for both low-key after-work affairs with friends or something a little more intimate. If appetites permit, finish with one of the classic desserts such as the plum and Bramley apple pie or the more playful peanut butter shortbread with salted caramel ice cream, complete with warm chocolate that oozes from the centre like a Christmas food advert – a true crowd-pleaser from start to finish. Hawksmoor, 5A Air Street, WIJ (020 7406 3980; www.thehawskmoor.com)

‘The T-bone is delicious, but also a triumph if you are able to finish the entire dish, weighing in at an 800g or 900g minimum’

Brighten up your Christmas day Exclusive gifts and souvenirs at London Transport Museum shop, Covent Garden Piazza, London WC2 Shop opens daily or buy online

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Background poster image: Brightest London is best reached by Underground By Horace Taylor, 1924

t’s been a good year for lovers of fine Cuban cigars. Some excellent new releases have found their way to these shores, as well as a stack of accessories, gadgets and goodies that make the perfect gift for the cigar-loving man (or woman) of the household. Each year, Habanos S.A., the Governmentcontrolled company behind cigar-production in Cuba, drip feeds a bewildering array of new cigars into the world’s markets. It’s enough to make one’s head ache – especially if you’re a specialist cigar retailer, who has to find space on shelves, conduct tastings, decide which cigars would benefit from ‘laying down’ and then offer reliable customer advice. ‘It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it,’ says Eddie Sahakian of the world-famous Davidoff store on the corner of Jermyn Street and St James’s. ‘But it can be confusing for even a seasoned smoker, let alone a novice or someone just looking for that present which says “I care”.

‘As with vintage wines, in any given year, there will be good, bad and indifferent cigars’ ‘Fortunately, we keep our fingers on the pulse and are able to steer our clients to the best of the annual production.’ As with vintage wines, in any given year, there will be good, bad and indifferent cigars. Attracting rave reviews in recent tastings, for example, are the 2012 Regional Edition for the UK, the Ramon Allones Petit Belicosos and the 2011 Regional Edition, the Bolivar Británicas. ‘We are fortunate in having some of the finest regional editions created for the UK market,’ says Mitchell Orchant, owner of Alfie Turmeaus cigar and whisky specialist of Shepherd Market, Mayfair. ‘Each year, these are stupendous smokes and the last couple of releases have been no

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exception. They are smoking great straight out of the box, but at around £150 per box of 10, are also attractively priced – and both have such consistent blending, they will age well, too.’ The Bolivar Británicas is perhaps the most tempting. Produced in slightly fewer numbers (3,000 boxes compared to 5,000 for the Ramon) if you choose to ‘lay these down’ instead of smoking now, they may well increase in value as well as taste and complexity. Partagás is a well-known Cuban brand, and any cigar lover will be in raptures on receiving a gift of these on Christmas Day. The canny gift buyer this year should certainly consider a box of 10 Partagás C3, a part of the 2012 Limited Edition (or Edición Limitada) series available worldwide. It’s available once more in cabinets of 10 sticks and won’t break the bank at £185. A strong, dark, flavourful smoke, the C3 will benefit from careful storing for many years to come. And if this year’s limited or regional editions aren’t to your taste, why not sample some from previous years which now have the benefit of a little age? The El Rey Del Mundo Choix De L’Epoque – a UK Regional Edition from 2009 – has made leaps and bounds in improvement since its launch and is now smoking divinely. It’s the sort of cigar one might like to lay down and smoke a couple each year on special occasions, priced at around £350 per box of 25. If these large gifts are a little above and beyond the call of duty and you’re looking for more of a stocking filler, then perhaps you could opt for one of the many cool and sophisticated accessories available to the world of fine Habanos? A quality cigar cutter, lighter, ashtray or case is always treasured, especially when gifted by a loved one. The value for money standout candidate in the cutter department has to be the Palio range, sold exclusively by www.cgarsltd.co.uk). These

The mayfair Magazine | Feature

cigar Images courtesy of Hunters & Frankau

compact double-guillotine blades feel pleasant in the hand, do a precise job and can even act as a rest for your cigar when you need both hands free. What’s more, they’re a steal at around £30, complete with a smart carry pouch. Cigar ashtrays need not only be brought out of the cupboard when they’re about to be used. Sautter of Mount Street sells an iconic flipflop ashtray for £40, guaranteed to be a talking point and elsewhere there are delightful branded Cuban ashtrays available as well as crystal and hand-carved options too. If a lighter is what you’re hankering after, consider where it might get most use. There’s little point in buying an expensive specimen if you’ll lose it when on the riverbank, for example. If the lighter will be pressed into service most often in the home, a butane flame might suffice and perhaps a large tabletop version would be pleasant to use. But if the lighter in question is to be taken out and about and pressed into regular use away from home and perhaps

outside, a wind-resistant torch flame would be the wisest choice. Cigar lighters come, as you’d expect, in a variety of finishes and prices. Cheaper ones tend to be unreliable and if you’re a cigar regular, you’ll know how often they break down on you. But if it’s something really top end you’re after, S.T. Dupont is considered the classic lighter, and a browse in the Davidoff store will reveal some beautiful iterations. For me, you ask? An Alfred Dunhill Turbo Shagreen lighter please – just £750. Don’t bother to wrap it.

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stor ming t No terrain appears too rugged for the new Range Rover. On a journey in Morocco through the sand dunes to the tarmac, the four-wheel drive lives up to its name combining its iconic design with new features inside and out W O R D S : R i c h a rd Y a rrow

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The mayfair Magazine | Motoring

the d eser t

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he usual rules of the road don’t apply in Morocco. Nominally people drive on the right but it’s pretty much a chaotic free-for-all here. In rural areas, getting around is more about donkey power than horsepower. In the cities like Essaouira, on the coast where our journey in the all-new Range Rover began, and Marrakech, where it ended, the decades-old scooter is king. In typical African-style, anywhere from one to four people will fit on the saddle. Two wheelers are also a popular way of carrying livestock, and after two days on the Moroccan roads I could write a book called ‘101 Ways To Get A Sheep Home From Market’. Into this pandemonium came a flock of Range Rovers and the world’s motoring media wanting to drive them. The car is considered by many to

its customers. They demanded ‘don’t change it, just make it better’, which is easier said than done. The result is a vehicle that’s 27mm longer than its predecessor, but which is still clearly a Range Rover. All the external styling cues are there, the ‘floating’ roof, split tailgate, clamshell bonnet. The lines are cleaner and more elegant, and despite its growth, the car still has a smaller footprint than the Audi Q7 and Mercedes GL. Inside, the slightly cluttered dashboard of the MkIII has been swept away in favour of simpler design, with 50 per cent fewer switches. Much of the improvement is due to the ‘infotainment’ touchscreen, which dominates the centre console and also houses one of several Meridian sound systems. An obvious tick on the options list for audiophiles is the mighty 1700-watt set-up with 29 speakers.

‘The Range Rover is like no other vehicle, a unique blend be the world’s finest luxury sports utility vehicle (SUV) and this is only the fourth new version since its 1970 debut. Ironically, Morocco was also considered as a venue for the launch back then but for various reasons that never happened. One Land Rover executive said being here now felt like unfinished business. It’s an ideal spot for the versatile newcomer to prove its mettle because in the space of 300 miles drivers can experience every grade of tarmac, desert sand, rough gravel, boulders to crawl over and – with a trip into the stunning Atlas Mountains – rocky tracks and even snow. The brief for the new car, five years in development, has been in part defined by

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Buyers can choose between a three-seat bench or two individual chairs for the rear. There is 120mm more legroom in the back, and if that’s not enough a LWB Range Rover is known to be in development for the first time. Expect to see that within 18 months. Land Rover is open about how the interior has been benchmarked against luxury brands such as Bentley rather than other 4x4 companies like Jeep. It’s hard to fault the offering; the Land Rover factory in Solihull, West Midlands, can provide any one of 38 exterior paints, 16 interior colour themes, seven wood veneers, two roof finishes and seven alloy wheels designs with sizes ranging from 19 to 22 inches. Don’t expect to see too many Range Rovers looking the same unless they’ve deliberately been ordered that way. Perhaps the biggest story on the new

The mayfair Magazine | Motoring

car is the one you can’t see – its weight reduction. The aluminium bodyshell is 180kg lighter than before and the overall total is down by 420kg. Both are impressive achievements. It’s also 10 per cent more aerodynamic and the resulting performance figures – both environmental and otherwise – are staggering. The old 4.4-litre V8 diesel would get to 60mph in 7.4 seconds, but had CO2 emissions of 253g/ km. Today the 3.0-litre V6 has identical statistics but puts out just 196g/km. There’s also a 22 per cent boost in fuel economy, up to 37.7mpg, and if you want an even cleaner version, there will be a diesel hybrid coming very soon. Rather than head immediately east from Morocco’s Atlantic coast, we started south and followed the beach and its endlessly shifting dunes. With the Range Rover’s

car’s exceptional ability as a high speed cruiser. Bar a little wind noise from the large door mirrors, it’s also very quiet and refined. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission, with paddleshift manual override, provides swift and smooth changes. There was very little to dislike or criticise. Day two found us heading into the Atlas Mountains, up switchback rocky tracks through a pass that peaks at 2,500 metres above sea level. It’s here that Land Rover’s 65 years of offroading excellence come to the fore. The car never missed a beat, proving what a capable machine it really is. The only issue was a few irritatingly audible rattles and squeaks from the interior trim, but given the hammering the car was taking, that’s perhaps understandable. Back on the smooth tarmac, they were gone.

of British engineering skill and British craftsmanship’

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF RANGE ROVER

Terrain Response dial set for ‘Sand’ and a little air let out of the tyres, the car was more than up to the task. Up or down the slopes, it coped admirably. Turning inland and to tarmac, we travelled through isolated and ramshackle rural communities. Avoiding the battered French cars – a hangover of Morocco’s colonial past – and directionless donkeys quickly becomes key to survival. Poverty takes many forms, and despite the obvious differences, not least the £70,000+ vehicles we were driving, we were greeted with smiles and waves in every settlement. When we finally reached the motorway to Marrakech, it was all but empty, allowing us to appreciate the

The Range Rover is like no other vehicle, a unique blend of British engineering skill and British craftsmanship. To get to its launch 300 prototype vehicles have covered millions of test miles across the globe, in temperatures ranging from -40 to +50 degrees. They will have gone almost twice as high as we did and successfully waded through water 90cm deep, 20cm more than ever before, for hours on end. The result is a car that’s calm under pressure, refined like royalty and also great fun to drive. Now I think it’s time to start on that book…

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11/10/2012 15:41

The mayfair Magazine | Beauty

Beauty news While away your festive stress with London’s finest treatments and some seriously indulgent products words : E lle blakema n

Treatment of the month However fabulous to enjoy, this season is hell on our skin. Stress, winter weather and endless events make it tough to keep looking good, which is why Debbie Thomas’ new repairing facial is a godsend. Teaming the unbeatable SkinCeuticals range (the Vitamin C masque is a miracle in a jar), Thomas – who has spent years working in Harley Street – uses Red Light therapy and Ultra Sonic therapy to get your skin back to healthy. Her unique process focuses on individual problems and helps to shrink pores, revive tired cells and repair damage from parties past and present. SkinCeuticals Delicate Skin Repair & Strengthening Treatment, from £135, 60 minutes. Hari’s Salon (020 7581 5211; info@harissalon.com)

Touch of gold

Queen of Mayfair We all like to be treated like royalty every now and again, so Elemis Day Spa in Mayfair (above) have come up with the ideal gift for those hard-to-shop-for women; a ‘Queen for a Year’ package that gifts the receiver a treatment every month for the whole of 2013. Treatments include a deep tissue massage, an Exotic Lime & Ginger Salt Scrub and a Valentine Steam and Rasul for two – a hit list that will certainly brighten up the winter months to follow, plus allow the giver year-long brownie points. ‘Queen for a year’, £650, Elemis Day Spa, 2 Lancashire Court Mayfair (020 7499 4995)

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This eye palette from Clarins is the cosmetic equivalent of Christmas cheer (despite the slightly Sci-Fi sounding name). The rich, weighty gold packaging makes it an ideal gift (or gift to yourself), while the deep, autumnal browns are ideal for lighting up pale winter faces. There is also a rather clever gold leaf highlighter which adds a touch of youthful luminosity, and is great for layering over the bronze shade for a day to night look. Limited Edition Odyssey Eye Quartet Mineral Palette, £35, Clarins (www.clarins.co.uk)

ials

sent 3 of the best … Eye es #1 Eye Concentrate, £125, Crème de la Mer (available at Harrods)

#2 Secret Camouflage, £26, Laura Mercier (available at Space NK)

#3 Stress Repair Concentrate, £150, Chantecaille (available at Space NK) 109

D SI DE SIGN GNER GN ER WED EDDI DING DI NG DRE R SS S ES S MAD ADE E TO MEA E SU SUR RE R E IN ITTAL ALY Y 81 1 E bu b ry S tr t reee e e t Lo Lon n d on S W nd W1 1 0 20 2 0 7 90 901 1 90 0 20 lee sp p o sed ed d ig i io o .cc om om

The mayfair Magazine | Beauty

Spa review

Agua Spa, Sanderson Hotel

W O R D S : E lle blakema n

here are no walls here. Well there are, obviously, but they’re hidden with huge swathes of diaphanous white silk; this has the most restful effect. ‘Rooms’ are created by these silks acting as curtains, like a luxurious infirmary. This pseudo-medical feel is fitting for the spa, who aim to provide both pampering and ‘spiritual relief’ to those in desperate need of both (that would be all of us then). Signature treatments are the Hot Stone massage and the Natura Bissé facial, each rightfully earning the spa a cult following. The massage is rooted in the belief that each touch with a hot basalt stone is worth ten with just bare hands. This is because the stone retains heat for longer which, added to the deep pressure, successfully unfurls tight, knitted-together muscles. The effect is instant and incredibly relaxing and – I’m told – very detoxifying, allowing the body to work more effectively. It’s up there with one of the best massages I’ve had in London and the best antidote to festive stress that I have found outside of a bottle. The facial is the only one in London to use Barcelona superbrand Natura Bissé, which explains why you will always see A-listers here before big events (who are often teaming it with a quick dash to tanning maestro James Read down the corridor). Starting with a thorough cleansing and a glycolic peel to rid the skin of dead cells, each product is applied using special plumping techniques, before cooled quartz gemstones are balanced on the face for a kind of acupuncture meets facial Feng Shui. The cocktail of products contains over 30 active ingredients, which awakens cells and promotes balance, translating to plump, healthy-looking skin that looks as good as it gets – positively medicinal. Hot Stone Massage, 75 minutes, £135. Natura Bissé Diamond Ice Crystal Facial 60 minutes, £95. Sanderson Hotel (020 7300 1414; www.sandersonlondon.com)

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Under wraps

Changeable seasons don’t just affect our moods; the constant flux between warmer and cooler weather confuses our bodies too, and colds and flu send our immune systems into overdrive. Be kind to your body this winter by preparing it for the colder months to come Take stock

Local knowledge

Keep your vitamin and mineral levels well stocked by eating beneficial foods which can improve your mood, stave off colds and toughen your immune system. When the sun shines, Vitamin D is in abundance, but during the darker months our bodies lack this vital vit – and this is thought to be one of the causes for SAD (seasonal affective disorder). Vitamin D can help to relieve mood disorders, so keep topped up on fresh oily fish – especially sardines. Other mood enhancers include eggs, high-quality dark chocolate, and oranges – which will also boost your vitamin C levels, crucial for fighting colds and flu. Your immune system will love you for throwing in some spinach, peas and other green vegetables into your meals and scattering some nuts and seeds into your cereal.

Over Christmas and New Year trying to find a GP appointment can be a real hassle, especially if you have young children, so research what services are available to you. The Platinum Medical Centre in St John’s Wood will be open throughout the holiday period, closing only for key dates such as Christmas Day.

Wrap up warm As adventurer Ranulph Fiennes once said, ‘There is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing’. Never underestimate the effect of the cold weather on your body, so, wrap up warm and keep the rain out. This is especially important for the elderly and young children. Cold and flu are very contagious this time of year, and can really knock you off your feet, even if you’re healthy. Washing your hands regularly fights germs and drinking plenty of fluids ensures you won’t become dehydrated. If you are in the ‘at risk’ category, consider having the flu vaccination.

Tread carefully Hand and wrist injuries soar in the wetter weather, with icy paths and leaf-strewn streets taking even the most agile people down. So it’s important to wear the correct footwear, and to take your time when the pavements are particularly slippery. Treatment for hand and wrist injuries acquired through falls often need to be treated very quickly. Services such as the London Hand and Wrist Unit can see patients, on the same day, in six locations across London.

Avoiding injury Blair Muir, Senior Hand Therapist at the London Hand and Wrist Unit offers his advice on avoiding hand and wrist injuries this winter. Now that colder temperatures are approaching, we face a number of hazards with wet and slippery surfaces increasing the threat of a fall. An injury to your hand or wrist can have a long term impact on your work and daily activities. Here are a few simple strategies to help you avoid falling and injuring yourself: • Choose sturdy footwear with good traction. Ladies: walk to work in your flats then pop your heels on at your desk • Take your time. Don’t rush or run, even if you are in a hurry • Walk on gritted surfaces • Use hand rails where available • Try not to carry too much. Keep your hands & arms free for better balance • When entering a building, take care as floors and stairs may be wet and slippery If you do slip and fall, or catch a rail awkwardly, there is a high risk you will damage structures in your hand and fingers. You may sustain a fracture of a bone in the hand, tearing of a ligament, or rupture of a tendon. If you do sustain an injury, please consult a physician as early as possible. Early investigation is vital to assess the stability of your bones and integrity of your soft tissues. Whether it be surgery, splinting or therapy you require, the earlier you seek input from a health professional, the quicker your recovery will be.

For further enquiries please contact 0207 483 5004 (www.thewellingtonhospital.com) 112

The mayfair Magazine | Health Promotion

USEFUL LINKS THIS

WINTER www.eatwell.gov.uk www.thelondonhandandwristunit.com www.theplatinummedicalcentre.com

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The mayfair Magazine | Travel

Long haul

Travel news We’ve found beautiful winter holiday spots to spend your Christmas, from skiing in Jackson Hole to a Baccarat-adorned hotel in Bordeaux - which will you choose?

In the city the snow might slow things down, but in the mountains it’s the perfect match. A trip to Amangani in Wyoming is worth the long flight, as this resort was made for snow-sports and, most importantly, luxurious après skiing. Perched atop East Gros Ventre Butte in northwest Wyoming, this Aman resort is surrounded by vast snow-capped peaks, along with plenty of things to do for both fair-weather skiers and adventure-seekers. Relax in the outdoor spas as you look out onto nothing but clear surroundings, or head to the slopes which are 20 minutes from the resort. It is suitable for the whole family or a romantic getaway with a seriously indulgent ski experience. (www.amanresorts.com)

Short haul

words : kate racovolis

Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, Bordeaux

The gift of travel Whisk yourself away to Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris this month, as the hotel celebrates 125 years since the opening of Singapore’s flagship with a five-day Parisian adventure. You will be treated to delicious gastronomy, a helicopter trip to the Loire Valley, tours of Paris’ art scene, a jewellery class at Van Cleef & Arpels and a bespoke cooking class with the hotel’s own chef, Laurent Andrè (to name just a few activities). A photographer will also be on hand to take photos of your journey, which will be bound into a beautiful leather album as a lasting reminder of your trip. Approximately £80,610 (www.leroyalmonceau.com)

Bordeaux is sparkling in Baccarat crystal this month at the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa, and is ideal if you are looking to spend Christmas out of town this year. The classic French hotel features a 4.5m tree dressed in Baccarat crystal in the lobby, setting a glamorous mood. Crystal ornaments in red and white continue throughout the Orangerie (the winter garden restaurant) and the Acquart Passage. And it wouldn’t be complete without delicious treats, so the hotel has created a cornucopia shaped Christmas cake topped with a beautiful crystal jewel as the finishing touch. A very Baccarat Christmas indeed. (www.ghbordeaux.com)

‘Split your suitcases so if the airline does lose a suitcase at least you can fall back on one’ Michel Roux Jr.

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Image: courtesy of Aman resorts

Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

[city break]

alzburg has a vitality which is entirely akin with its being located at the bosom of central Europe, near the German-Austrian border. Fed with ominously close mountain air and pumped with oxygen from the rushing Salzach River that divides the city, it is overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Castle – a majestic fortress A winter wonderland if ever there was one, Salzburg is which sits regally lit in the city’s backdrop each night, itself offering spectacular views a breath of fresh air for the city traveller and will take you back over the city and the acres of golden to dizzying new heights, with dumplings, schnitzel and foliage beyond. This is a city synonymous chocolate never far from reach with romance; Makartsteg Bridge, named after nineteenth-century painter Hans WORDS: ALICE TOZER Makart, is clutched by hundreds of padlocks, bearing the names of the romantic couples who have ‘locked’ their love there; a continuation of the early-2000s tradition that is evident on bridges from Paris to Cologne (much to councils’ despair). Visitors will not fail to notice The Sound of Music heritage all around; from posters of theatrical performances plastered around town to the tangible gardens of Mirabell Palace which house the famous fountain. This city is, after all, the birthplace of the musician, and it’s no wonder; Salzburg is, Horse driven carriage IN Salzburg from every angle, truly awe-inspiring. (PHOTO: salajean / Shutterstock.com) There is a healthy production of Mozart chocolates going on too, sold in umpteen dainty little cocoa boutiques. At its heart Salzburg is pleasantly confined, making it perfect for mindless wanderings, hand-in-hand, around modelvillage streets. Yet there are plenty of lakes and mountains for the adventurous (the Salzkammergut being one nearby group of the former). Seasonal change Salzburg castle HOTEL STEIN is palpable and the city lends itself to EXTERIOR winter visits. The snow comes tumbling in around November and can hang around until March. Of course, this is no inconvenience and for most, will simply be the icing on the cake (which in this case would happily be a A JUNIOR SUITE AT handsomely rich Sachertorte). THE HOTEL STEIN

salzburg

THE ROOF TERRACE AT HOTEL STEIN

Old narrow street in the centre of Salzburg

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Mirabell gardens (PHOTO: Robert Hoetink / Shutterstock.com)

The mayfair Magazine | Travel

Love locks ON THE BRIDGE

Where to stay

g Panoramic view of Salzburg CITY CENTRE

Boasting existence since 1399, Hotel Stein – a newly renovated hotel – is right at the heart of the old town and possesses the city’s best rooftop terrace, ‘Steinterrasse’. Cosy up with the blankets provided and revel in mulled wine, glogg or tea. This is a local favourite haunt, rendering the atmosphere pulsating, especially when one glances across at the panoramic city spectacle that surrounds. The hotel itself oozes a calm confidence from the outside, with cream palatial walls and strong lighting, and inside houses top-end options including a Mozart Room. (giselakai 3-5, 5020 Salzburg; www.hotelstein.at)

SUITCASE E SS E N T I A L S #1 Earrings, from a selection, Tiffany & Co. (www.tiffany.co.uk)

#2 Gloves, £165, Mulberry (www.net-a-porter.com)

#3 Coat, £1,455, Sportmax (www. matchesfashion.com)

#4 Dress, £695, Roland Mouret (www.liberty.co.uk)

Eating & drinking

Winter sunrise in Salzburg. View from Kapuzinerberg

cafe bazar

ROOF TERRACE AT HOTEL STEIN

Take in breakfast on the patio at Café Bazar (thermals a-plenty; Salzburg is best experienced outdoors). Traditional Austrian coffee houses in all their Viennese glory are fabulous and this one does a fantastic job of typical Austrian breakfast fare; homemade jams, wedges of crusty bread and gallons of rich coffee. Shwarzstraβe 3, 5020 Salzburg (www.hotel-brandstaetter.com)

Mayfair recommends

HOTEL STEIN AT NIGHT

Pop into ‘Christmas in Salzburg’ at no 10 Judengasse for the most exquisite festive decorations you’ve ever seen. Eggshells hand-painted in everything from Klimt paintings to intricate world maps.

#5 Hat, £920, Chanel (Chanel, Old Bond Street; 020 7493 5040)

The HallstattDachstein alpine landscape in winter

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The mayfair The mayfair Magazine Magazine | Food| Regulars & Drink

Suite

dreams … at Claridge’s W ords : elle blakema n

hristmas at Claridge’s is as magical as it sounds. The elegance of the Art Deco lobby, gleaming and perfect at any time of the year, becomes magnified; the huge dome of chaste white roses in the middle of the dining room, usually centre stage, bows to the festive colours and fragrances of the huge McQueen-designed tree, and the staff, full of genuine warmth somehow up the ante proving why they are the best in the business. Or perhaps they just love Christmas too, it’s hard not to here. Claridge’s is a showroom for the best that London has to offer. It’s old-school glamour: top-hatted doorman, polished mirrors and thick plush carpets in tasteful shades. The caged lift, one of only a handful left in the country, is attended day and night by a gracious operator who will deliver you to your room in style, encouraging you to sit on the cushioned bench en route (the fabric is original too, naturally). The suites here are nothing short of spectacular. And there’s choice. No bland white marble here – deep 1930’s blues occupy the Linley Art Deco Suite (my personal favourite, pictured above) or go bright and bold in the Grand Piano suite, impeccably designed by Diane von Furstenberg. All gracefully marry the old and the new: service buttons and marble fireplaces are seamlessly blended with flatscreen TVs and power showers. Dress for dinner and book for cocktails at Le Fumoir – the ‘smoking’ bar downstairs – a

heavy, sensuous den of a room where hard liquor and good conversation flow with unreserved ease. Retro cocktails are expert and potent, try a Julep or a Swizzle. For dinner, ask for a corner table in the Reading Room, giving you a view out over the public space of the hotel for a spot of people watching – always one of the best things about a hotel like this. A visit to Claridge’s would be a wonderful thing to do for any Christmas, however this year is exceptionally fabulous, as the hotel celebrates its bicentennial anniversary this winter; an incredible 200 years of luxury, extravagance and sophistication, carried off to a standard that only a set-up like this could procure. (Incidently BBC 2 is running a three-part documentary – A Year in the Life of Claridge’s – this month to mark the occassion). It’s a Christmas indulgence like no other – some shopping on the nearby Bond and Mount Streets, a dash of festive ice skating or perhaps a show, then back to Brook Street to take in the magic of this very special hotel. Staying at Claridge’s is a fantasy; a dream, and what better time to do so than at Christmas? Claridge’s are offering a ‘Timeless Christmas’ package from £795 per room, including Champagne and festive treats, overnight stocking delivery, breakfast, a 7-course Christmas lunch and a horse-drawn carriage ride through Mayfair. To book, please call 020 7107 8842 or email reservations@claridges.co.uk

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Property | The mayfair Magazine

Mayfair estate agents Paddington & Bayswater Sales & Lettings Beauchamp Estates 24 Curzon Street, W1J 7TF 020 7499 7722 www.beauchamp.co.uk

4C Praed Street, W2 1JX 020 7717 5473 (sales) 020 7717 5343 (lettings)

John D Wood

Proprium

48 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9PA 020 7824 7900 www.johndwood.co.uk

149 Sloane Street, SW1X 9BZ 020 7589 6298 www.proprium.co.uk

Belgravia

Pimlico & Westminster Sales

Sloane Street

50 Belgrave Road, SW1V 1RQ 020 7834 4771 www.hamptons-int.com

Kaye & Carey

Chesterton Humberts

Mayfair

47 South Audley Street, W1K 2QA 020 7629 4513 (sales) 020 7288 8301 (lettings)

Harrods Estates

Knightsbridge

Westminster & Pimlico

82 Brompton Road, SW3 1ER 020 7225 6506

10 Gillingham Street, SW1V 1HJ 020 3040 8201 (SALES) www.chestertonhumberts.com

61 Park Lane, W1K 1QF 020 7409 9001 www.harrodsestates.com

Knightsbridge

Savills

4 Yeoman’s Row, SW3 2AH 020 7590 0066 www.kayeandcarey.co.uk

188 Brompton Road, SW3 1HQ 020 7581 5234

Knightsbridge Sales Mayfair Sales & Lettings 36 North Audley St., W1K 6ZJ 020 7578 5100

Mayfair

Sloane Street Sales & Lettings Knight Frank

r 600 Offices in 46 Countries

Hyde Park Sales

139 Sloane Street, SW1X 9AY 020 7730 0822 www.savills.co.uk

55 Baker Street, W1U 8AN 020 7871 5060

Marylebone Sales

othebys_Mayfair Mag_Nov12.indd 1

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Fine & Country

Mayfair

119 Park Lane, W1K 7AG 020 7079 1523 www.fineandcountry.com

Hamptons International

Chelsea Lettings 134 Fulham Road, SW10 9PY 020 7717 5433

Home House Estates 21 Woodstock Street, W1C 2AP 020 7493 1911 www.homehouseestates.co.uk

Horne & Harvey 23A St James’s Street, SW1A 1HA 020 7839 6006 www.horneandharvey.co.uk

55 Baker Street, W1U 8EW 020 3435 6440

Mayfair Sales & Lettings 120a Mount Street, W1K 3NN 020 7499 1012 www.knightfrank.co.uk

Pastor Real Estate Ltd 48 Curzon Street, W1J 7UL 020 3195 9595 www.pastor-realestate.com

London Sotheby’s International Realty 26A Conduit Street,W1S 2XY 020 7495 9580 www.sothebysrealty.com

Strutt & Parker

London Head Office 13 Hill Street, W1J 5LQ 020 7629 7282

Knightsbridge

66 Sloane Street, SW1X 9SH 020 7235 9959 www.struttandparker.com

Knightsbridge Lettings 168 Brompton Road, SW3 1HW 020 7717 5463

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Mayfair Sales & Lettings

Jackson Stops

Plaza Estates

32 Grosvenor Square, W1K 2HJ 020 7717 5465 (sales) 020 7717 5467 (lettings)

17C Curzon Street, W1J 5HU 020 7664 6644 www.jackson-stops.co.uk

29-31 Edgware Road, W2 2JE 020 7724 3100 www.plazaestates.co.uk

Mayfair Sales & Lettings

Marble Arch

For Estate Agent Listings please contact Fiona Fenwick at: f.fenwick@runwildgroup.co.uk

W.A. Ellis 174 Brompton Road, SW3 1HP 020 7306 1600 www.waellis.co.uk

showcasing the

finest HOMES & PROPERTY from the best estate agents

Exclusive PROPERTIES Home and abroad

harrods estates www.harrodsestates.com

Knight Frank

Portman Mansions, Marylebone W1

A stunning two bedroom mansion block apartment This stylish and truly unique interior designed apartment has been refurbished and remodelled to an exceptionally high standard incorporating the latest technology. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living/entertaining space with open plan kitchen and dining area, 24 hour porter, CCTV, residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on site gym and sauna. Approximately 79 sq m (847 sq ft) Leasehold: 177 years approximately Guide price: ÂŁ1,495,000

(MRY120096)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Marylebone marylebone@knightfrank.com 020 3641 7938

Knight Frank

Hyde Park Gardens, Hyde Park W2 Charming and contemporary apartment

A beautiful apartment, recently refurbished to a high specification, located moments from the open spaces of Hyde Park. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, bedroom 2, bathroom, reception room, open plan kitchen, study area, porter, private entrance, access to private communal gardens. Approximately 74 sq m (800 sq ft) Leasehold Guide price: ÂŁ995,000 (HPE110148)

KnightFrank.co.uk/HydePark hydepark@knightfrank.com 020 3544 6140

Knight Frank Cleveland Square, Bayswater W1 Garden square views

A grand duplex apartment located on one of London’s finest garden squares and within close proximity to Hyde Park. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, utility room, terrace with direct access to communal gardens, 2 balconies. Approximately 178 sq m (1,916 sq ft) Available unfurnished Guide price: £1,950 per week

Hyde Park Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings hydeparklettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 7941 (HPQ114415)

James Street, Marylebone NW1

Contemporary apartment A newly refurbished apartment on the second floor of a corner block, close to a wealth of local amenities. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, bedroom 2, bathroom, reception room, contemporary kitchen, air conditioning, lift. Approximately 79 sq m (850 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: £995 per week

Marylebone Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings marylebonelettings@knightfrank.com 020 3641 5853 (MRQ161976)

Knight Frank Arlington Street, St James’s W1A

Spectacular penthouse An impressive penthouse in a prestigious block, with vast terrace. 3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, open plan living area, kitchen, study, dining area, utility room, maid’s quarters, feature waterfall, private terraces, views over Green Park, lift, porter. Approximately 355 sq m (3,821 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: £10,000 per week

Mayfair Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7483 (MAQ166691)

Henrietta Street, Covent Garden WC2 Loft style with roof terrace An exceptionally bright duplex apartment finished to an excellent standard and situated adjacent to the iconic Piazza. 2 double bedrooms, further bedroom/study, 2 bathrooms, open plan reception room, kitchen, extensive terrace with view. Approximately 126 sq m (1,364 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: £995 per week

Mayfair Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings mayfairlettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 7483 (MAQ153984)

Vibrant, sophisticated and diverse, London is one of the world’s most exciting cities. Located at its heart, The Residences at W London offer a world-class lifestyle complete with all the perks of being a guest of W Hotels.® The Residences at W London are comprised of eleven exclusive two and three bedroom duplex penthouses situated on the top two floors of W London offering stunning views in a world –class location. wlondonresidences.com

Contact Kate Townrow 020 7499 1012 Gary Hall 020 7480 6848 coventgardenlettings@KnightFrank.com www.knightfrank.co.uk/lettings

The mayfair Magazine | Property

The MAYFAIR INSIDER simon barnes

Property news Exciting new developments in Fitzrovia and Park Lane; plus expert tips on selling your home in the depths of winter Fitzroy Place, W1 Exemplar, the privately-owned property development company, launched Fitzroy Place on 26 September with funding from Aviva Investors. This collection of private residences is one of the most eagerly anticipated developments in central London, centered around the first new square in London’s West End for more than a century. Located in Fitzrovia W1, the development is five minutes’ walk from Oxford Circus and Regent Street, providing international investors the opportunity to acquire a luxury residence in the very heart of London. Combining more than 230 private residences with a restaurant, shops and office space, Fitzroy Place is set to become a new landmark in this vibrant neighbourhood. Homes include generously appointed suites, duplexes and a select number of prestigious penthouses. Residents are automatically made members of The Fitzroy Club, of which extensive facilities and amenities include a five-star 24/7 concierge service, 20-seat private cinema, the Club Room residents’ lounge, private dining room, personal training room and fully equipped gym, business lounge, children’s play area and secure underground parking. Development Director at Exemplar Richard Shaw comments: “We felt it was appropriate to enable the UK audience who have carefully followed the development and its progress over a number of years, the first opportunity to show their interest in Fitzroy Place. We are delighted by the current level of interest that has been shown with a number of apartments being reserved to date.” Sales for Fitzroy Place are being handled by Savills and CBRE. Savills, Louise Turner: ljturner@savills.com; 020 7323 1077 CBRE, Emma King: emma.king@cbre.com; 020 7323 1077

14-16 Park Lane, Mayfair Mayfair has hit the headlines again with two stunning additions to the market at 14 and 16 Park Lane. The Grade II-listed buildings date from the 1890’s and their renovation into residential properties is likely to be an expensive but rewarding process, with the planning permission proposing a conversion into the modern-day mansion. Each property will benefit from a spa, swimming pool, library, and drawing room spread over a seven-level home, as well as multiple bedroom suites and staff accommodation. (www.knightfrank.co.uk or call +44 20 7499 1012. Marketed at £45,000,000)

uch like ordering a sofa – when it comes to buying or selling your property, Christmas has a cut-off point. Sellers may feel pressured into making a decision to sell before Christmas and accepting a lower offer. Before doing this, stop and think and weigh up the alternatives. Realistically, if a property has not sold by Christmas, it is unlikely to sell until early February, when buyers return from their Christmas break, ready to focus on moving house. The upside of this being that prices are likely to have risen over this period and new properties are likely to be at ‘higher prices’, so sellers can either take advantage of this and in comparison, price their properties realistically, or assuming improvements have been made in response to feedback from buyers pre-Christmas, they can ask a higher price in line with properties new to the market and capitalise on fresh eager buyers. For buyers, it’s also an interesting time. Many sellers, having weighed up their options, may decide to ‘take the money and run’ rather than wait for the Spring market, leaving the buyer in a strong negotiating position. A word of caution, presumably as a buyer, you will have been looking for some time, and have a good idea of what is on the market, what has sold and where values sit. All the good properties may well have sold already, so you will no doubt be frustrated at having to choose from the leftovers. These tend to be the overpriced or unsuitable properties that have been hanging around for some time. Use your knowledge (or your buying agent) to strike a deal on the basis of it being pre-Christmas. Aim not to settle for second best just because that’s all that’s available. You could wait for new properties in the New Year, just be mindful that prices could be higher and there will be more competition from new buyers. (www.simonbarnes.com) 127

quality

not quantity

Operating independently from his Mayfair base â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and never actively acting for more than four or five clients at one time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Simon Barnes is able to provide a personal level of service far beyond the average buying agent or property consultant. His service will be committed, impartial and utterly discreet

work smarter, not harder. T: 020 7499 3434 M: 078 3146 5414 E: simon@simonbarnes.com

www.simonbarnes.com

savills.co.uk

The Penthouse Terrace

Superb apartmentS in FaSHiOnabLe Centr aL FitZrOVia newman street, w1 Penthouse apartment with terrace  1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments  car parking to selected apartments  located just to the North of Oxford Street, between Marylebone, Soho and Covent Garden  2 show apartments to view  Architects’ Journal Award winning building Guide £820,000 - £3.95 million Subject to contract Leasehold 150 years

London Residential Development Adele Foley newhomes@savills.com

020 7409 8756

Park Lane, Mayfair, W1 Such a truly unique three bedroom, three en-suite bathroom apartment with study, at this level of sophistication and cutting edge style in one of Central London’s most prestigious and desirable locations, rarely becomes available. Setting a benchmark standard of interior design, no expense has been spared to combine superb elegance with state-of-the-art technology using the very best in bespoke interiors. Leasehold approximately 121 years remaining £7,495,000 020 7409 9346 Jennifer.marwick@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001

HARRODSESTATES.COM

The Lancasters, Hyde Park, W2 A stunning four bed apartment in this stucco-fronted building that benefits from a 24 hour concierge service, swimming pool and gym. The apartment comprises a master suite, second double bedroom, family bathroom, modern fitted kitchen with Gagganau appliances, vast double height living room with mezzanine floor leading to a further two double bedrooms both with en-suite bathroom. This new development offers 24 hour concierge, valet service, secure underground parking, gym and swimming pool. Available, unfurnished ÂŁ5,500pw 020 7409 9158 Robin.boghhenrikssen@harrodsestates.com

KNIGHTSBRIDGE OFFICE: 82 BROMPTON ROAD LONDON SW3 1ER T: +44 020 7225 6506 MAYFAIR OFFICE: 61 PARK LANE LONDON W1K 1QF T: +44 020 7409 9001

HARRODSESTATES.COM

ELEGANT GRADE I LISTED NASH

Regent’s Park, NW1 An elegant Grade I Listed Nash residence (613 sq m/6,602 sq ft) located in one of Regent’s Park’s most desirable locations. The property is one of the largest in the terrace and features excellent entertaining rooms and further benefits from a magnificent 53 ft west facing garden and a separate Mews House, as well as being one of the only properties in the terrace to have a lift. The complete refurbishment and renovation programme that is being carried out is almost complete now, and the property is offered for sale or rental as a shell enabling the prospective purchaser to design a home to their own specifications. Double Length Reception Room, Family Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Dining Room, Conservatory, Master Bedroom with En-Suite Dressing Room and Bathroom, 5 Further Bedrooms, 3 Further Bathrooms, Staff Bedroom with En-Suite Bathroom, Guest Cloakroom, Separate Mews House, Bedroom, Reception Room, Kitchen, Dining Room, Study, Garden.

FoR SALE oR RENTAL LoNG CRoWN LEASE PRICE UPoN APPLICATIoN

281441_Vantage_Bargets_Dec12.indd 1

07/11/2012 12:05

RHP

RESIDENCE FoR SALE oR FoR RENT

SOLE AGENTS

12:05

RHP_281441_Vantage_Bargets_Dec12.indd 2

07/11/2012 12:06

Chelsea Fulham & Parsons Green Kensington & Holland Park Knightsbridge, Belgravia & Mayfair Notting Hill & Bayswater West Chelsea & South Kensington

Sales 020 7225 3866 Sales 020 7731 7100 Sales 020 7938 3666 Sales 020 7235 9959 Sales 020 7221 1111 Sales 020 7373 1010

Lettings 020 7589 9966 Lettings 020 7731 7100 Lettings 020 7938 3866 Lettings 020 7235 9959 Lettings 020 7221 1111 Lettings 020 7373 1010

City Office Professional Valuations UK Commercial & Residential Residential Investment Property Management

020 7600 3456 020 7318 5039 020 7629 7282 020 7318 5196 020 7052 9417

struttandparker.com

Eaton Place | Belgravia | SW1 1,569 sq ft (145 sq m)

This is a very well-presented penthouse apartment with a private lift, impressive open plan entertaining space and the unusual benefit of two private terraces, one offering 360 degree views of London. Reception room | Kitchen | Master bedroom with dressing room and en suite bathroom | Bedroom two with en suite bathroom | Bedroom three/study | Shower room | Two Roof terraces | Private lift Asking price ÂŁ4,350,000 Leasehold

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959

Wilton Row | Belgravia | SW1 2,305 sq ft (214.1 sq m)

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959

Wilton Row | Belgravia | SW1 3,422 sq ft (317.9 sq m)

Knightsbridge 020 7235 9959 JSA Savills 020 7581 5234

Scan this QR code with your camera phone to read more about this property. Free QR code readers are available to download from our website at struttandparker.com/qrcode

Property | The mayfair Magazine

Another

year over

Simon Barnes reflects on the challenges 2012 has brought to the residential property market in London and looks ahead to 2013

ost experts would agree that the property market throughout 2012 has not been without its challenges, both for buyers and sellers. The continuing economic uncertainty and restricted lending from banks has impacted the rest of the UK more than in London, where property in prime central locations remains unaffected and is holding up well as a solid investment. The ongoing demand continues from overseas buyers in search of trophy houses and apartments. Wealthy buyers are hailing from across the globe from India, UAE, China and South East Asia, and of course, Eastern Europe. It is the buyers from Eastern Europe who seem prepared to outbid those from other countries to secure their ‘trophy’ home. At this level of the market, the tax changes and new legislation appears to have had little or no impact, with buyers at this level retaining expert and costly advisors to negotiate hard and advise in the wake of any such changes. It seems that a shift in the rationale of moving has emerged throughout 2012, with lower mortgage rates putting would-be sellers under less pressure and people are also less inclined to move for the sake of it, recognising that inevitably selling well will still mean paying a premium to move on and secure their ideal home. As this year has progressed, the reality is that only perfect properties are attracting serious buyers and selling. The property and the location must fulfil all the criteria to secure a deal. Buyers at the top end of the market are in

138

no rush and feel no pressure to move, so they view properties on the market with the most critical of eyes, drilling down to every conceivable detail and piece of paperwork. Premium prices continue to be achieved for the best properties, which tick all the boxes, while those that fall short remain unsold. Further down the market, buyers and sellers have remained cautious, only venturing into the market if the right place is available at the right price; again anything that does not fulfil their exact requirements remains unsold. Looking ahead to 2013, I suspect that the demand for prestigious, trophy homes in the prime addresses will continue. Throughout 2012, the restricted lending to developers resulted in a noticeable lack of newly developed properties and unfulfilled buying requirements. This situation looks set to improve slightly with more developments in the pipeline, enabled by funding coming from outside sources and private equity. The market will continue to move albeit at a slower pace, with a greater divide between the good properties, ‘ticking all the boxes’ achieving premium prices, and those on the fringes remaining unsold. Prime locations will continue to mean an increase in price, but whereas before buyers may have considered buying property that came close to their wishlist, I suspect, based on how the tail end of 2012 is going, that those buyers will wait until the right place comes along rather than settle for second best. (020 7499 3434; www.simonbarnes.com)

GREAT CUMBERLAND PLACE W1 Larger than average one bedroom flat, on the first floor of this lovely older style conversion. Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception Room, Kitchen.

£525 PER WEEK

SOUTHWICK STREET, PADDINGTON W2

UPPER MONTAGU STREET W1

Lovely and spacious, one bedroom flat on the first floor of this excellent, well maintained purpose built block.

Attractive, contemporary three bedroom apartment arranged over three floors offering spacious living accommodation.

Bedroom, Bathroom, Reception Room, Kitchen, Balcony, Communal Gardens, Lift.

3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Cloakroom, 2 Reception Rooms, Study, Kitchen, Roof Terrace.

£500 PER WEEK MARBLE ARCH: 020 7724 3100

£1100 PER WEEK

Chalet chic â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The estate itself is a truly outstanding four-storied luxury chalet set in an 8,000m plotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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The mayfair Magazine | Property

Combining the best alpine customs with an elite lifestyle, this luxury double chalet works as a hub for winter sports or as a peaceful mountain retreat

small medieval town in the Austrian Alps, Kitzbühel has become an internationally renowned ski resort and one of the world’s top luxury holiday destinations. For over a century, the world’s elite has been enticed by the beauty of the landscape, the quality sporting facilities and the picturesque town centre. The Kitzbühel Estate offers the chance you enjoy the glory of your surroundings from the comfort of your own home, in a traditionally alpine chalet designed to provide complete modern luxury. Sitting on a southern slope minutes away from the town, the estate enjoys panoramic views, taking in the Wilder Kaiser, Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm mountains. The last is the site for the historic World Cup alpine ski

race, so you’re sure to be in some impressive company out on the slopes. The estate itself is a truly outstanding four-storied luxury chalet set in an 8000m plot. In addition to the ten bedrooms and thirteen bathrooms, this stunning property offers a library, gallery, cinema room, wellness centre, wine room and indoor and outdoor pools. At just 75km away from Salzburg, residency in Kitzbühel offers the winning combination of rural tranquillity and city convenience. Although most famous for skiing, the area is an equally attractive summer destination, with hiking, horse-riding, golf and much more to enjoy. (£29,000,000. For further information please contact Nickleby Evans, Savills International Residential: 020 7016 3740; nevans@savills.com)

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Caribbean

escape

nown as the ‘Venice of the Caribbean,’ Jolly Harbour is the only man-made marina in the eastern Caribbean. Packed with yachts and super-yachts, the marina is a haven for the dedicated sailor, with year-round sunshine, sea breezes and gorgeous natural scenery. Palm Point is a new development sitting right on the seafront at North Finger beach, with a large mooring directly outside, meaning you can sail almost up to your own front door. An open-plan living area leads out to the pool, with the beach directly beyond, while the covered terrace opens up options to dine on the sand, entertain guests or simply watch the boats coming in. Inside, the property is exquisitely light and

spacious. The house’s location on the sheltered leeward side of the island provides beautiful views of sparkling turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Spread over 10,000ft², the house has six luxury bedrooms, all with en-suites, extensive gardens, staff accommodation and even a helipad. The beach-side pool is paved and includes a built-in Jacuzzi, while sun loungers and umbrellas complete a perfect set up for relaxing and sunbathing. With local activities including an 18-hole golf course, water sports and scuba diving, the house can be a hub of holiday activity of a tranquil escape to a tropical paradise. (£3,395,150. For further information please contact David Vaughan, Savills International Residential: 020 7016 3740 or dvaughan@savills.com)

‘The house has six luxury bedrooms, all with en-suites, extensive gardens, staff accommodation and even a helipad’ 142

The mayfair Magazine | Property

With the Pacific Ocean as your back garden and 365 different beaches to explore, the tropical island of Antigua provides a stunning backdrop for this coastal villa

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Property | The mayfair Magazine

There are very few things in life that appear to be quite such great value as property purchases – but all too often this is only with the benefit of hindsight, explains Mark Parkinson

untry a voice from the co

e r u t u f e h t n i g Investin

f course, the passage of time will always, sooner or later, ensure a good return on property investment. But making the meaningful returns, that once seemed almost a given, nowadays requires at least a medium-term, and possibly a longterm, view. This is not just because of the flat-lining of the economy as a whole but also because of the fact that virtually everyone else is wise to the relative security of property as an investment. There are very few bargains out there, just waiting for someone with a nose for property to sniff out. One of the last remaining ways of digging out a hidden gem is through thorough research and some future planning. Take the Crossrail project, as one example of this line of thought. Europe’s biggest engineering project isn’t scheduled for completion until 2018 but if you wait until then, the premiums will already be built into the thousands of properties which suddenly find themselves inside the magic circle – the border-line marking the difference

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between daily commute and weekend escape. Maidenhead to Canary Wharf, as just one example, is currently a one hour 40-minute journey involving three changes. In a few years’ time the same journey will be a non-stop 54 minutes. That changes the equation completely. By the time Crossrail is finished – with 37 existing stations connected, 21 kilometres of new twin-bore tunnels and eight new subsurface stations – owners all over Greater London, Berkshire and Essex will be recalculating their journey times. And when they’ve done that they’ll start recalculating their property value. My advice? Start looking now. Start buying soon. Now is the time to do your research, so that in ten years’ time, you can sit back and listen to other people being wise with the benefit of hindsight. ‘A Voice From the Country’ is a series of articles by Middleton Advisors, who act on behalf of private clients looking to purchase country houses and estates in the UK (01235 436 277; www.middletonadvisors.com)

Wimpole Street Marylebone W1G

M o r t i m e r S t r e e t F IT Z RO V IA W 1

Own private entrance*. Studio flat close to Marylebone High Street. Spacious reception with high ceilings, secluded bedroom area, new tiled shower room, fully fitted kitchen, large storage/utility cupboard. Price £415 per week – Furnished

Contemporary Interior designed apartment close to shops, restaurants and transport. Reception room. open plan kitchen, double bedroom, single bedroom, luxury bathroom, utility cupboard, wood flooring, good storage, entry phone system. 675 sq ft. Price: £695 per week – Furnished

A l d f o r d S t r e e t MAY F AIR W 1

C U R Z ON S TREET MAY F AIR W 1

Traditional tastefully furnished apartment with high ceilings and period features in exclusive Mayfair location. Entrance hall, double aspect reception room with feature fireplace, fully fitted eat-in kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en-suite). Price £900 per week – Furnished

Prestigious newly refurbished Mayfair apartment in a luxury development close to restaurants, private dining clubs, boutiques and Green Park. Reception room, master bed suite +shower and dressing area, 2nd double bed, bathroom, F/F kitchen, solid wood flooring throughout. Use of private gym. Price £1,350 per week – Furnished

E. lettings@pastor-realestate.com

LONDON’S TALLEST RESIDENTIAL TOWER

†

THE PLATINUM COLLECTION

ELEGANT LUXURY

A Unique Opportunity 3 bedroom suites from £3,780,000 * The Buckingham Suite from £20,000,000 * Overlooking the River Thames and historic Houses of Parliament, at 50 storeys and 181 meters high The Tower, One St George Wharf will be one of Europe’s tallest residential towers. The Platinum Collection, on floors 33 – 44 will offer customers the opportunity to acquire suites on selected floors, or an entire floor plate, allowing 360 degree uninterrupted views of the world’s greatest capital city.

www.thetower-onestgeorgewharf.co.uk By appointment only:

Terry Wrightson +44 (0)20 7042 7700 Marketing suite open: Mon to Fri 10am – 8pm | Sat & Sun 10am – 6pm

Email: towersales@stgeorgesl.com

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies †

Computer generated images are indicative only. Indicative view from the 33rd floor. *Prices correct at time of going to press. Correct at time of going to press.

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14/11/2012 14:53