Absolutely Chelsea 06 2012

rugs to riches

dream weaving with luke irwin

Chelsea

food special peggy porschenrachel khooalbert roux

here's looking at you, kidd saddling up at the polo with jodie kidd

JUNE 2012 3.95

Girl about town

by the bookliterary

festivals of the summer

sitting pretty on Chelsea green

aBsolUtely

COVERS CHELSEA-FULHAM JUNE 12.indd 2 31/05/2012 15:40

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ABSOLUTELYJUNE 2012

9 editors letter

style12 absolutely loves

Absolutelys top ten this month

15 closet confidential Channelling the roaring twenties

17 fashion notes Browns comes to Sloane Street

26 beauty flash Absolutelys best beauty buys of the month

29 beauty confidential Beauty news and tips

38 chelsea girl Summer style on Chelsea Green

Arts And CUltUre33 whats on

Our local culture diary

37 culture flash This months highlights

CONTENTS73 let them eat cake

Peggy Porschens delightful recipes

79 food notes Potted game and Jubilee street party fun

80 paris when it sizzles Rachel Khoos Little Paris Kitchen

85 restaurant reviews Tom Aikens and the Markham Inn

87 escape We check in to Chewton Glen, Hampshire

88 festival fever The best summer literary festival

91 vive la france Katy Jarrett experiences Gallic hospitality

PrOPerty110 in their own words Alix McAlinden, Engel & Vlkers

117 fabulous fulham119 charming chelsea 122 luxury lettings132 prime purchase

52 fairy godmother Karen Pilkington Miksa talks ballet

PeOPle19 wedding belles

Bridal designer Caroline Castiglianos tips for dressing for the big day

48 fairest of them all Art Antiques London founders Brian and Anna Haughton

49 magic carpet ride Luke Irwin, bespoke rug designer on his world of interiors

interiOrs63 culinary delights

Eight of the best kitchen accessories65 interior inspiration

Gemma Billingtons picks of the month 66 diary of a designer

A brief encounter with Kit Kemp

FOOd & trAvel69 the master chef

Albert Roux under the grill

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ABSOLUTELYJUNE 2012

EDITORS LETTERIf you are ever at a loss to support a fl agging conversation, introduce the subject of eating, said the English 18th-century poet, essayist and critic Leigh Hunt. Had this man of letters travelled in time to 2012, he would have found, though in all likelihood a ba ingly changed culinary landscape, the inclination to gas about gastronomy thriving unabated.

As such, at Absolutely, we decided to indulge our collective hunger for cookery talk by bringing you a foodie issue. If youre anything like us, spare moments may well be spent poring over the recipe books that our kitchen shelves groan under the weight of, while MasterChef, Come Dine With Me et al blare in the background. A new one to add to the pile is Peggy Porschens latest tome Boutique Baking, which is jam-packed with appealingly pastel-coloured recipes that make us want to reach immediately for our aprons and whisks. We are massive fans along with Kate Moss of the Elizabeth Street-based baker, so we picked a few of our favourites. Get marshmallow-making on p.73.

Meanwhile, our other foodie crush of the moment is Rachel Khoo she of the Little Paris Kitchen series. e be-frocked, red lipstick-sporting cook last month popped over from her bohemian idyll in Paris to make an appearance at Harrods for a quick demonstration. She found the time to share her story and some recipes with Gemma Billington on p.80. And what, after all, would a food issue be without some words of wisdom from the culinary veteran Albert Roux, he of Le Gavroche fame? He instructs how to make the ultimate Swiss cheese sou on p.69.

Elsewhere, dont miss our chat with the eternally lovely Jodie Kidd (p.54) who is campaigning for her beloved polo to be reinstated as an Olympic sport; we also take wedding tips from bridal designer Caroline Castigliano (p.19) and on p.38 we decamp to Chelsea Green for a days very fashionable grocery shopping.

I do hope you enjoy this issue and the Jubilee celebrations.

Nancy AlsopEditor

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Editor-iN-CHiEF Harriet Compston

Editor nancy Alsop

travEl Editor Priscilla Pollara

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ABSOLUTELY

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10things weAbsolutelyLOVE

BELLE OF THE BALL TEA We love chocolate, we love ballgowns, we love William Curley so it stands to reason that weve gone daft over the patissier and chocolatiers limited-edition Belle of the Ball Afternoon Tea at Harrods, which is in celebration of the V&As Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 exhibition. eres a chocolate pyramid inspired by Giles Deacon, a Mont Blanc tart which takes Mark Fast as its muse, plus homages to Victor Edelstein and Erdem in the form of a raspberry and kirsch casket and an apricot and cassis entremet respectively. We are powerless to resist. 39 per person; until 15 June; harrods.com

JUBILEE CAKE POP TOPS e Union Jack bunting, Buckingham Palace in the background, her Maj waving to the crowds... we are head over heels for these cake decorations from Talking Tables. Exactly the thing to decorate ones Jubilee street party Victoria Sponge with. We are amused. 3.50; talkingtables.co.uk

ASTON MARTIN PICNIC HAMPERAston Martin has long been at the vanguard of British motoring. Car enthusiasts will, then, be thrilled to learn that the manufacturer has turned its stylish attentions to the home under the direction of designer and silversmith Grant McDonald. We love this hamper, whose champagne glasses are inspired by the Martin One-77 super car. Aston Martin picnic hamper, 2,750, available from the Aston Martin W-One showroom at 113 Park Lane from 1 June, and Harrods from 1 August; grantmacdonald.com/astonmartin

LLADRO LONDON LIGHTINGLladro is celebrating Londons moment in the spotlight this summer with its own Big Smoke-centric lamp, which features on its engraved translucent porcelain shade the capitals icons, from the phone box to double decker buses. We adore! 35, lladro.com

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NU LINEWe never can resist a freestanding bath, and were loving Stonekasts Quadrato Resin version which is all simplicity and elegant lines. Now just to add the beautiful courtyard and the pink blossom Available through Nu-line, nulinebathrooms.com

THE ORGANIC PHARMACY e Organic Pharmacy which now has six branches all over London and one in L.A celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. e fi rst shop was opened on the Kings Road, and we were instant converts; after all, whats not to love, from the clean white space and the homeopathic remedies to the husband-and-wife team behind the vision? theorganicpharmacy.com

LETTS JUBILEE NOTEBOOKSWe are stationary addicts, and so it comes as little surprise that we should this month declare our love for this A5 Jubilee Bulldog notebook. Maybe its the iconic fl ag background, though we suspect its more likely that its the disgruntled looking pooch modelling on the cover... 5.99; from letts.co.uk

BABATUNDE UMBRELLAS e deluge of unseasonable rain may have got even the most perpetually positive of us down over the past couple of months, but we have resolved to channel our inner Pollyanna and fi nd reasons to be cheerful about it. Step forward then the Babatunde brolly, available exclusively at e Shop at Bluebird. We feel brighter about it all already. theshopatbluebird.com

STYLEHABITATS LAUNDRY BAGOk, so we know laundry is hardly one of lifes more glamourous tasks, but if like us you have a tendency to store it up for the weekend, this Habitat hand-fi nished leather laundry bag closes magnetically and looks super-chic. 130; Habitat, 208 Kings Road, SW3; habitat.co.uk

LUXE CITY GUIDESHow often we have cursed the tourist incarnation of ourselves as we stand, forlorn, on European street corners with a Lonely Planet in hand, as conspicuous as if we were being herded by a megaphone-wielding guide, while chic locals whizz by on Vespas and nonchalantly sip cappuccinos in street cafs. It is, then, a true delight to come across the Luxe city guides, which are stylish, discreet and compiled by people who actually live in the city in question. Individual guides, 4.99; Grand European box set, 47; luxecityguides.com

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ABSOLUTELY LOVES2.indd 13 30/05/2012 12:14

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BrightYoungThingsETRO SPRING/ SUMMER 2012

All hail the decadently roaring Twenties...

All hail the decadently

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STYLEVALENTINOGold-plated Swarovski crystal bib necklace, 385net-a-porter.com

GUCCICracked leather and suede sandals, 585gucci.com

GUCCI Chain embellished sequined silk dress, 5,220; gucci.com

ANYA HINDMARCHApple clutch, 895 anyahindmarch.com

MAUBOUSSIN Sapphire and diamond bracelet, POAhancocks-london.com

SHAUN LEANEDiamond & cultured pearl tribal deco earrings, 19,700shaunleaneshop.com

DOTE LONDONDote slip, 125dotelondon.com

EMMY SHOESElizabeth Shoe, POAemmyshoes.co.uk

VAN CLEEF AND ARPELSOpera ring, POA vancleef-arpels.com

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FASHIONNOTES

SHABBY CHICRolled headscarf? Check.

An eclectic array of oversized beads? Check. Big slouchy jumpers? Check. We adore

Anthropologies unabashedly bohemian spring/summer

collection. Enough to make us wish ourselves away to a

country idyll and reach for the paintbrushes anthropologie.eu

Costelloe confi dentialPaul Costelloe shares his local foodie secrets

What a month! We wont talk about the weather, but on a positive note,

congratulations to Boris as he takes up his mayoral duties once more. We cyclists must stick together!

After my stint with Radio 4 during the week, focusing on the economy, it is clear the consumer wants good quality for the money they spend. is aff ects all of us; we must support our British brands. e new look Peter Jones at Sloane Square is joyful (look out for the new Paul Costelloe Collection handbag range online from August).

Since were focusing on food this month I will share with you some of my favourite local eateries. For a well-priced, pre-fi lm outing, you cant do better than the Stockpot on the Kings Road; the eff ervescent matre-d Angelo greets every customer like a long lost friend! Le Colombier on Dovehouse Street is a little gem; the melt-in-your-mouth sole, in a parsley butter sauce with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc is heaven indeed. On the other end of the scale, the little Chinese restaurant Formosa, just opposite Fulham Broadway station, is very authentic, and for the dating set, try the ever-popular Big Easy; the frozen margaritas are a big hit.

Finally, do support our Chelsea pensioners at the Royal Hospital. e Masterpiece Antiques Fair is on from June 28 -July 4. See some great art, have a chat with the residents; theyre the best of Chelsea. paulcostelloe.com

BROWN SUGARBrowns, the South Molten Streets Mecca for the seriously sartorially minded is set to expand its horizons from the West End to join the slew of designer shops on Sloane Street. e new store will be designed by Browns creative director and daughter of the legendary Mrs B Caroline Burstein, whose unerring eye was also responsible for the Browns Focus store, alongside Joel Bernstein, previously a co-owner of the gorgeous tea room and chocolate shop Cocomaya. Sweet. brownsfashion.com

CHELSEA GIRLWere loving the tropical stylings of Ingenues High Summer collection. e eminently wearable shapes coupled with the arresting prints make them the perfect summer pieces to team with fl ipfl ops (for the day) or wedge espadrilles (for evening). Whats more, theyve even named the pieces after our corner of the capital. Parot top Chelsea, 73; ingenuelondon.com

BOUTIQUE-IN-BRIEF FLEUR B8 ELYSTAN STREET, SW3; FLEURB.CO.UK

THE IDEA: London College of Fashion graduate and mother of two Fleur Bird launched her eponymous label last year armed with a mission statement to help the multi-tasking woman fi nd practical and stylish everyday clothes.

THE USP: e timeless-with-a twist looks paired with uncompromising quality.

THE BUY:Apart from the Fleur B label itself, there is a discerning edit of other labels, including Violet Lake, Lem Lem, American Vintage, Lara Bohinc and Beulah.

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FASHION NOTES.indd 17 30/05/2012 15:10

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WeddingBELLES

STYLE

Creative force behind her eponymous bridal collection, Caroline Castigliano gives Absolutely her big day top tipsYou started out designing sportswear for women as a teenager in Florida at what point did you switch to bridal wear? When I was designing aerobic wear it was all high fashion leotards with matching sweatshirts, bags, watches and towels in vibrant colours with unusual patterns screen-printed on each design. I was so lucky because when I took it to the States, it sold immediately Macys, Bloomingdales and Neimen Marcus all picked up the line. In 1990, I felt I needed to seriously decide where my talents lay and at that point I knew I wanted more than what I was able to achieve in sportswear. I returned to the UK after living in the States for a while and started

investigating different niche markets when I fell upon bridal wear I knew instantly that it would be perfect for me.

What are the key bridal looks this year?Very light, pretty laces. People think of it as traditional but the laces we use are soft and cut into contemporary styles. This year you will see lots of cap sleeves and boat-necks. There is also a great emphasis on backless dresses glamour is everywhere.

How would you describe the Caroline Castigliano style?Our dresses are understatedly glamorous. I love simplicity, with exquisite cut and balance to a design. The gowns feature

CAROLINE CASTIGLIANO Q&A.indd 19 30/05/2012 14:48

STYLE

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wonderful, luxury fabrics with delicate details they are individually cut for each bride and the construction is unique.

What makes the experience of selecting a bridal gown in your boutique different?We aim to get to know our client and spend the first 20 minutes chatting about their ideas. What we need to understand is the overall vision a bride wishes to create. Once thats established we start working on the perfect silhouette and style.

Who do you find inspiring?Dolce & Gabbana and Elie Saab. Both create feminine glamour. What has been your proudest moment? I have had quite a few but building the

brand Caroline Castigliano over 21 years makes me feel very proud.

Which one person historic or alive would you like to design for?Jackie Onassis was so chic and stylish! She was a fashion icon who understood simplicity, cut and the power of a dress.

Which well-known person do you think got their choice of wedding dress right? Carolyn Bessette Kennedy.

And more generally, whose style do you admire? Gwyneth Paltrow.

What is the most important thing when choosing a bridal gown?Following your dream. It is so important

that you arrive at your wedding feeling the best you have ever felt in your life.

You must have to be quite diplomatic in steering people towards the dresses that suit them (and by implication sometimes away from the dresses that dont) Yes, it is very important to be diplomatic, as our clients are not used to wearing gowns of this nature. Once we understand their vision and ideas, along with their shape, we can help explain what will work well for them and why.

Should a bride rely on her own instincts and shop on her own, or bring a friend? We suggest you always take someone along whose opinion you truly value.

What easily avoidable mistakes do brides make when dressing for the big day? They often decide to wear a style that is totally opposite to their personality. I


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suggest avoiding a new hairstyle or make-up, and wear shoes that are comfortable.

Whats the one current bridal trend you really dislike? It would be puffball dresses I really dont like this style.

And your favourite trend? Lace. I love exquisite laces and have been lucky enough to work with some of the top lace houses in the world.

The notion of the Bridezilla has been perpetuated by innumerable chick flicks and romcoms. Does that clich really ring true? Sadly, it does!

How do you deal with the more demanding customer? Patience is a virtue!

Historically, women would choose wedding dresses that could be worn again. Do you encourage your customers to wear your creations more than once? With the styling of bridal gowns, that isnt really possible these days.

STYLE

Veil or no veil? Discuss!I love veils and really think everyone should wear one. There are many styles and they just add a wonderful sense of romance to the overall look. Brides being older these days, they often feel insecure about wearing a veil they shouldnt!

High heels underneath the wedding gown or little ballet pumps? I recommend a 2 3 inch heel but this year Ive been seeing lots of 6-inch heels and I just dont think thats very practical.

How long before her wedding should the bride shop for her gown?Most of our brides start looking for their gowns a year to eighteen months before their wedding. Once their gown has been chosen, other decisions fall into place.

Whats your favourite dress in the new collection? Adoration. I truly love this gown. It is the sort of design I would like my daughter to wear one day.

What top three tips would you give for shopping for the ultimate dress? 1. Do some homework and understand the different levels in the market. A gown that is made-to-order is a standard size gown that will be altered to fit and is entirely different to a made-to-measure dress whereby you are fully measured and a pattern is created for you and the gown is designed to fit to your curves. You also need to understand the difference between the mass market and a hand-crafted dress made from luxury fabrics.

2. A bride should research designers and understand their signature looks so that when she starts to visit boutiques, she feels confident about the type of style they sell. Decide on the vision you want for the day. It will really help.

3. Always work with a store with a good reputation which will help you finding the most important dress youll ever wear.

carolinecastigliano.co.uk


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TRYOGA Sweat and stretch, relax and rejuvenate at Triyoga. With Londons best teachers, it offers classes for all levels, as well as exquisite treatments (ranging from massage to facials), an organic caf and a lifestyle shop. Try two weeks of unlimited yoga for just 20. Triyoga Chelsea, 372 Kings Road, SW3 (at Beaufort Street), 020 7483 3344; triyoga.co.uk

PAPERCHASECelebrate the Jubilee with Paperchases wonderful collection of gifts and memorabilia. It is also the perfect destination for birthdays, weddings and special occasions from Valentines Day to Christmas and everything in between. Shop forcards, wrap, designer stationery, home accessories, bags and travel accessories and gifts.Paperchase, 289 Kings Road, SW3, 020 7376 5117; paperchase.co.uk

The Kings Road is one of the most iconic streets in the capital. Absolutely picks the

cream of the crop

Fit for a king THE NATURAL SHOE STORETrading on the Kings Road since 1976, The Natural Shoe Store has now re-opened with a much-needed face lift. Pop in to find old favourites such as Birkenstock alongside exciting new brands. The Natural Shoe Store, 325 Kings Road, SW3 020 7351 3721;thenaturalshoestore.com

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WELCHOMEWelchome is an award-winning design studio and furniture manufacturer. Its team of designers are always glad to help clients create stunning spaces suitable for every requirement, with a particular emphasis on eco-friendly solutions. Welchome, 311 Kings Road, SW3, 020 3417 0193; welchome.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

HABITATSynonymous with remarkable design and

exceptional quality, the Habitat store on the Kings Road off ers iconic seasonal favourites. Transform your

home with inspired collections of furniture, upholstery and home accessories. Habitat, 208 Kings Road, SW3

08444 99 1144; habitat.co.uk

THE HOLDING CO. e Holding Company specialises in providing stunning ideas for storage and organisation.Designs are simple, functional and stylish, and both contemporary and traditional. Products range from natural weaving materials and recycled fi breboard to moulded acrylic and fabricated metal.Readers of Absolutely can enjoy a Jubilee 10 per cent discount in store, quoting JUB001 (cannot be used in conjunction with any other off er/promotion), valid until 16 June 2012. e Holding Company,241-245 Kings Road, SW3, 020 7352 1600; theholdingcompany.co.uk

GEORGE SMITHOff ering an extensive range of upholstered furniture in a variety of classic designs that suit both contemporary and traditional tastes, George Smith is the go-to place for anyone looking for the last word in comfort and luxury. e knowledgeable staff are always on-hand to help you fi nd the perfect style and fabric for any setting. George Smith 587-589 Kings Road, SW6, 020 7384 1004; georgesmith.co.uk

EMMETT LONDONFounded by Robert Emmett in 1992, Emmett London has steadily unfolded its modern approach to the established Jermyn Street shirt-making heritage. is British brand has risen in prominence and garnered a loyal and ever-expanding high calibre client base. An Emmett shirt is defi ned by its superior selection of cloth, attention to fi t, construction and most importantly fl air, combining contemporary style with traditional English shirt-making values and approach. Emmett, 380 Kings Road, SW3; 020 7351 7529, emmettlondon.com

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THE ORGANIC PHARMACY e Organic Pharmacy has a long list of celebrity followers with Kylie, Beyonc and Demi Moore just some of its fans. Youll know why when you try some of its products, from the amazing Carrot Butter Cleanser to the best-selling Superantioxidant capsules. With award-winning treatments also available, its a must. 396 Kings Road, SW10020 7351 2232; theorganicpharmacy.com

THE SHUTTER SHOP LTD e Shutter Shop Ltd has been trading for over 20 years and has a large showroom on the Chelsea/Fulham border. Interior shutters are now the most popular of window coverings giving privacy and light together with creating a contemporary living environment. e Shutter Shop off ers a full measure and installation service using its team of competent surveyors and is able to provide bespoke custom-made interior shutters in various diff erent woods, colours and styles to suit any budget. 100-102 Waterford Road, SW6 020 7751 0937; shuttershop.co.uk

CHELSEA HEALTH STOREChelsea Health Store was established some 14 years ago. It off ers high quality vitamin supplements, minerals, herbs, natural and alternative remedies, plus organic beauty products. e store aims to give complete satisfaction to its our costumers. 400 Kings Road, SW10020 7352 4663; chelseahealthstore.com

BLUEBIRDBluebird cafe and restaurant run by D&D London is a true Chelsea institution. From the elegantly planted courtyard (the place for summer socialising) to the legendary fi rst fl oor dining room, it is brimming over with style. ere is also a fabulous food store, wine cellar and bakery for those who want to recreate the sumptuous dishes at home. 350 Kings Road, SW3020 7559 1000; bluebird-restaurant.co.uk

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BLANCO & GOMEZBlanco & Gomez Wine Merchants spotted an important gap in the market and promptly filled it with quality wines from around the world, featuring in particular small boutique producers. Just over a year after opening, they have acquired a loyal clientle seduced by their wine and spirit selection as well as the knowledgeable and friendly team.Blanco and Gomez, 410 Kings Road, SW10;020 7352 8680; bgwm.co.uk

INTERIOSelecting the very best exquisitely made interior products, Interios exclusive brands provide beautiful homes with stunning and luxurious furnishings. The highly trained

team are happy to help both trade and public

clients alike. Interios showroom is perfectly

situated in the heart of Londons design district.

Interio Showroom, 555 Kings Road, SW6, 020 7348 7366; [email protected]

ChELsEA fRAMERsChelsea Framers is both a gallery and a workshop which specialises in creating bespoke framing for works of art, spanning the gamut of media from photography, oil-on-canvas and needlework to 3D objects. Experienced staff will help you with your choice from an extensive selection of frames, mounts and finishes. The emphasis here is on style and quality. 341 Kings Road, SW3020 7351 6121; chelseaframers.co.uk

hAWEs & CURTIsFor almost a century, Hawes and Curtis has been making extraordinarily luxurious Jermyn Street shirts whether its the perfect shirt for work or the weekend youre after. The USP? Hawes & Curtis never compromises on quality and is dedicated to providing affordable luxury. 39 Kings Road, SW3 020 7730 9009; hawesandcurtis.com

KINGs ROAD sPORTING CLUBThe Kings Road Sporting Club stocks a plethora of premier activewear and swimwear brands. From running to swimming, KRSC prides itself on discovering fresh, innovative labels, whilst catering to its customers every sporting need.

Swimwear brands range from Seafolly, Seaspray, Aguaclara, Sunseeker, Vix, Luli Fama, Baku and Cool Change to Juliet Dunn, Jets, Miss Mandalay and Paolita. Meanwhile activewear brands include Lululemon, Tonic, Casall, Nike, Deha, and Shock Absorber. 38-42 Kings Road, SW3 020 7589 5418; kingsroadsportingclub.co.uk


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STYLE

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Absolutelys best buys of the month

TOP TENBeautyFlash

1. GIELLY GREEN ARGAN ULTIME HAIR AND BODY OIL, 28.90, shop.giellygreen.com 2. SISLEY AGE-MINIMIzING AfTER-SUN cARE, 132, harrods.com 3. SHU UEMURA ART Of HAIR ESSENTIAL DROpS, 29.50, shuuemura.co.uk 4. cLARINS ANTI-EAU BODY cONTOUR TREATMENT OIL, 37, clarins.co.uk 5. KRASTASE ELIxIR ULTIME, 33.50, kerastase.co.uk 6. LOccITANE

ALMOND SUppLE SKIN OIL, 29, uk.loccitane.com 7. cAUDALIE DIVINE OIL, 25, caudalie.com 8. cRME DE LA MER BRIGHTENING ESSENcE, 220, harrods.com 9. TOM fORD NEROLI pORTOfINO BODY ScRUB, 50, tomford.com

10. ELEMIS LIMITED EDITION pApAYA ENzYME pEEL, 28.60, timetospa.co.uk

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Sculpt Your BodY Slim in Six WeekSLouise Parker and her dedicated team are ready to bust your body into shape for spring

THE INTENSIVE PERSONAL TRAINING PROGRAMME was devised by celebrity trainer Louise Parker over 12 years ago and has since changed the body shape of hundreds of individuals. Her experience ranges from helping clients recover from long-term obesity, to taking care of some of the most beautiful bodies in the world.

The unique programme combines six hours a week of her exercise method, alongside a rigorous dietary overhaul, for a six-week period. Each week we train you in four 90-minute sessions in the comfort of your own home bringing the gym to you and saving precious time, says Louise. Some clients choose to do three 90-minute sessions over an eight-week period and the results are still exceptional.

The Intensive employs exercise and diet methods that radically shift body fat and totally re-sculpt the body, without compromising metabolism. Its so important to teach our clients how to boost their metabolism so that once they have lost the weight they can easily keep it off, she notes. So many diets will get the weight off but your metabolism will come to a grinding halt or they are just not sustainable. The programmes emphasis on resistance work and an intelligent eating plan ensure the results that clients achieve are long lasting and, most of all, easy to maintain. No aspect of what we do is

extreme, she explains. Every element of the plan is sensible, researched and proven to work. But what we do is put it all together to create massive transformations in our clients bodies and lifestyles.

My team are world class and without doubt some of the best in the country. Most come from a Sports Science background and we have two Olympic athletes amongst us. We all share a friendly, no-nonsense approach and between us we offer an unrivalled service to our clients. Im hugely proud to have such a talented and committed team behind me.

Louise Parker believes anyone can have a fantastic body regardless of age, body type and starting point: By following my method, you really will be blown away by how you can change your body shape, overall fitness and exceed your own expectations.

Her programme is suitable for anyone wanting exceptional results, in record time. The Intensive is hugely popular with clients needing to be what she calls red-carpet ready whether thats for a wedding, new job-role or even the school run. I love helping post-natal mums, she explains. Since I had my daughters in quick succession, I fully understand the challenges new mothers are faced

with, and what has to be done to return you to your former glory.

Louise Parker designs each programme with one of her team before the programme commences, based on the individuals requirements and deadlines. A rigid, yet balanced food plan is devised, ensuring optimal results. Louise personally monitors your diet diary on a daily basis to ensure you are on the right track and that you get all the support and motivation you need to succeed. In six weeks, you will emerge looking better than you thought you ever could. What Louise Parker does

isnt gimmicky, it is instead an intelligent combination of three factors nutrition, training and lifestyle delivered in just the right combination. Providing you have made the

decision to change and are willing to let us guide you, she asserts, You simply cannot fail clients routinely drop two dress sizes on the Intensive.

There are many bespoke programmes available, and following a telephone consultation, Louise will advise a suitable programme and schedule to suit any objective, lifestyle and budget. Louise asks that new clients commit to a minimum of three hours per week to ensure that they achieve amazing results.

Louise Parker Personal Training, 2 Eaton Gate, SW1W 9BJ 0800 084 2828 [email protected]

You simply cannot fail - clients routinely drop two

dress sizes on the Intensive

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Super glam synchronised swimming at e Berkeley, peachy perfect blushers and ocean-saving face creams

Beauty Confi dential

OCEANS APARTCrme de la Mer has buddied up with BLUE Marine Foundation to support its eff orts in raising funds to increase the area of ocean protected by marine reserves. In time for World Oceans Day, it has created a limited-edition 100ml World Oceans Day Crme in a specially designed ocean-inspired jar. In addition, Crme de la Mer will make a $200,000 donation

to Oceana in support of the Habitat Protection Campaign. cremedelamer.co.uk

REVIEW: CAROLINE GREGSONFlawless, youthful skin is something model and media darling Lisa Snowdon counts as an enviable asset. Genetics aside, the key to her dermatological success? Caroline Gregson. Deft of hand and soothing of voice, she is a master of her craft: achieving optimum skin condition at any age. I booked in for a Tri Polar Radio Frequency Facial, a non-invasive and painless facelift; miraculously, in one hour my skin was fi rm and tight with a visibly smoother jawline. e treatment uses electromagnetic radio waves to penetrate deep into the hypodermis, causing collagen fi bres to contract and tighten. And, says Caroline, with a series of appointments the results can be impressively long-lasting and not a scalpel in sight! By Katie Randall48 Royal Avenue, SW3; carolinegregson.co.uk

WATER BABIESNose clips and swimming hats at the ready: Olympic fever has hit e Berkeley. In celebration of the games and of the latest craze in keep fi t, the swish Knightsbridge hotel has teamed up with Aquabatix to introduce a weekly 90-minute synchronised swimming masterclass. e most glam forum in the captital in which to master the art of the egg-beater kick... 125 per person, in June and July only; visit the-berkeley.co.uk for dates.

SUPER SERUMSWere loving Anne Smonins portfolio of fi ve serums which come beautifully packaged in a rainbow of colours and are designed to meet the needs of all skin types. From the holiday essential Phytarosa serum which aids skin damage to the must-have for city dwellers, anti-oxidising Oligoanna serum, it has it covered. 96 each; annesemonin.com or at Liberty

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Crow CrowdDaniel Belevitch founder of new fine jewellery line Crows Nest last month commanded a very beautiful crowd for a

night of champagne, canaps and jewels at Tramp. Sparkle all round.

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30

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Under the arches at Putney Bridge tube station you will find a huge selection of the worlds finest Artists materials and equipment at Londons lowest prices.

Under the arches at Putney Bridge tube station you will find a huge selection of the worlds finest Artists materials and equipment at Londons lowest prices.

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33

MASTERPIECE LONDON28 JUNE 4 JULYTHE ROYAL CHELSEA HOSPITALA veritable feast for the eyes, Masterpiece London will bring together, for the third year running, the crme de la crme of the art world to the sumptuous grounds of e Royal Chelsea Hospital. Hailed by Oprah Winfrey no less, as an event with ...an exciting and diverse range of quality and beautiful things, the fair brings together 170 exhibitors ready to thrill collectors and new enthusiasts alike with design from around the world. Get an eyeful of some of the worlds most beautiful objects as well as the likes of Oprah and Mick Jagger mooching around... South Grounds, e Royal Hospital Chelsea, SW3; masterpiecefair.com

ARTS&CULTURE

Whats OnWHATS ON3.indd 33 30/05/2012 17:29

FOOD&TRAVEL

34

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: FRANKENSTEIN14 JUNECURZON CINEMA CHELSEAMary Shelleys cult classic Frankenstein was brought vividly to life to great acclaim at the National eatres dramatic stage adaptation, with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller brilliantly cast in the alternating roles of Dr Frankenstein and his creature. If you missed the the Nick Dear-adapted, Danny Boyle-directed play, you can now catch it at Chelseas Curzon cinema, which is showing a screening this month. 206 Kings Road, SW3; curzoncinemas.com

JuneWhat to do, when to see, where to go Katie Randall picks the hottest tickets in town

IMA

GE

: CH

ELS

EA

SPA

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BNP PARIBAS TENNIS CLASSIC 19 JUNE 23 JUNEHURLINGHAM CLUB Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray and Greg Rusedski... see a role call of tennis biggest hitters past and present without the joys of queueing from 5am at Wimbledon at the Hurlingham Club this month. e BNP Paribas allows spectators to fl it between play and afternoon tea, barbecues and drinks receptions in the luscious grounds quite the most civilised way to get your lawn tennis fi x. Hurlingham Club, Ranelagh Gardens, SW6; hurlinghamclub.org.uk; bnpparibastennisclassic.com

AVANT CRAFT16 MAY 16 JUNESAATCHI GALLERY Avant Craft this month presents a rare opportunity to see the painted plywood furniture of renowned architect and interior designer Max Clendinning (b.1924). ough Christian Dior was just one of his many legendary fans and his designs were sold through the luxury likes of Liberty Co, Clendinnings work had all but faded into obscurity, except amongst the cognoscenti. Until now, that is; following his work featuring in the current V&A Exhibition British Design: 1948-2012, happily interest has been renewed. As such, CHELSEA space now presents a timely solo exhibition by one of the most original designers of his generation. Catch it at Chelsea Space, 16 John Islip St, SW1P; chelseaspace.org

WHATS ON3.indd 34 30/05/2012 17:29

ARTS&CULTURE

35

ELIE LAMBERT18 JUNE 8 JULYOSBORNE STUDIO GALLERY The Osborne Studio Gallery is celebrating the art of Elie Lambert this summer. Born in Brussels, Lambert now lives in Normandy where his studio-apartment overlooks the famous Deauville racecourse. Gallery director Geoffrey Hughes is a connoisseur with an exceptional eye for sporting art, and recognised Lamberts artistic gift, inviting him to submit 50 canvases for his first solo show. 2 Motcomb Street, SW1X; osg.uk.com

ANA TZAREV: EXPOSED18 MAY 16 JUNETHE SAATCHI GALLERYAna Tzarev is proof that you dont need a piece of paper to be a true artiste; though untrained, she has exhibited her work worldwide and now she makes her London debut at the Saatchi Gallery. Exposed displays a selection of her flower canvases, which reflect her study of horticulture and the gardens she has designed across the world.Kings Road, SW3;saatchi-gallery.co.uk

BOB CARLOS CLARKE: ONE-OFFS

28 MAY 30 JUNE THE LITTLE BLACK GALLERY

Described as one of the great photographic image-makers of the last few decades by Terence Pepper, curator of photographs

at the National Portrait Gallery, this exhibition gives the public a rare

opportunity to buy from the Bob Carlos Clarke oeuvre. Born in Ireland in 1950, he worked across almost every sphere of photography winning numerous awards

for his advertising campaigns and celebrity portraits. These images have been chosen by his widow Lindsey; many are hand-

coloured, distressed, or were printed once and then left forgotten until now.

13A Park Walk, SW10;thelittleblackgallery.com

MERRIE ENGLANDSUNDAYS AND MONDAYS FROM 27 MAY 12 JUNEFINBOROUGH THEATREOriginally written for the Savoy Theatre in 1902, this rediscovery of Merrie England celebrates both the Queens Diamond Jubilee and the 150th anniversary of the birth of composer Edward German, whose patriotic pageant deals with love and rivalries at the court of Elizabeth I, with a plot that includes such historical personages as Sir Walter Raleigh and the Earl of Essex... 118 Finborough Road, SW10; finboroughtheatre.co.uk

ANTONY BEEVOR: THE SECOND WORLD WAR12 JUNENATIONAL ARMY MUSEUMAward-winning author Antony Beevor will give what is sure to be a gripping talk on the Soviet invasion of northern China this month. The fascinating subject matter of the lecture covers the gamut from the North Atlantic to the South Pacific, and explores the greater dilemmas of leaders, soldiers and ordinary people. Book through the National Army Museum, Royal Hospital Road, SW3; nam.ac.uk

GOEDHUIS SUMMER ROSE TASTING 201226 JUNETHE SAATCHI GALLERYGoedhuis & Co hosts its fundraising summer ros wine tasting in aid of Starlight Childrens Foundation, a charity that grants wishes for seriously ill children, this month. The aim? To raise 60,000 for the charity, which is supported by Sienna Miller and Bill Nighy. Book tickets through goedhuis.com; saatchi-gallery.co.uk

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37

ARTS&CULTURE

BLUE PLAQUE OF THE MONTH THE DE MORGANS, 127 OLD CHURCH STREET, SW3Suff ragette supporters, spiritualists, and two of the most gifted artists of their day William and Evelyn de Morgan were described by a friend as entirely in harmony in their art, acting and reacting on each others genius. eir romance is one before which the pen falters. William De Morgan was discovered by Arts and Crafts leviathan William Morris and was considered the most important ceramicist of the movement, while his wife Evelyn was a prolifi c and pre-emienent pre-Raphaelite painter. Together they lived at 127 Old Church Street helpfully next to the Chelsea Arts Club and the building was especially adapted for their work.

KING AND COUNTRY e year is 1936. Storm clouds are gathering over Europe, while on home soil unemployment is rife and Oswald Mosley is gathering momentum for his fascist New Party, against the backdrop of which behind the royal scenes Edward VIIIs relationship with Wallis Simpson is developing. Social historian Juliet Nicolsons Abdication tells the story through the eyes of May omas, an immigrant from Barbados escaping her sugar plantation upbringing. Published by Bloomsbury on 7 June, 14.99

Culture FlashTHIS MONTHS HIGHLIGHTS

ARTS&CULTURE

LORD OF THE RINGSusan Froemkes epic behind-the-scenes documentary reveals the fi ve-year preparations for the Met Operas staging of Wagners 16-hour, four-part Ring Cycle. e award-winning fi lmmaker explores the jaw-slackening

technical and artistic challenges involved, including the construction and navigation of the central machine which simulates the moving of tectonic plates. Deborah Voigt, Peter Gelb,

James Levine, Robert Lepage and Fabio Luisi star in the production which even Wagner himself believed was

impossible to stage. In Cineworld cinemas from 20 June.

CLASS ACTPosh, Royal Court Young Writers Programme graduate Laura Wades hit production, now transfers to the West End. Duke of Yorks eatre will play host to her socially and politically piercing piece, which is set in an oak-panelled room at Oxford where the braying elite modelled closely on the Bullingdon Club are staging a debauched night, while cooking up a plan to restore their right to rule. duke-of-yorks.offi cial-theatre.co.uk

CULTURE FLASH.indd 37 30/05/2012 14:49

Photography by Squiz HamiltonStyling by Ailsa Miller

Chelsea Girl

Fashion Shoot Chelsea June12.indd 38 30/05/2012 15:13

Blue jumper from a selection at Ralph Lauren Kids; silk mix

skirt, from a selection by Sophia Kokosalaki


Silk shirt, 175, by Clover Canyon at Oxygen Boutique; tweed skirt, 195, by Sonia Rykiel at Harvey Nichols; oxidized silver and green onyx earrings, 280, by Amrapli; studded leather bag, 395, by Lulu Guinness


Silk jacket, 825, by D&G at Harvey Nichols;

cotton t-shirt and denim jeans, 175,

both by Current/Elliot


Silk dress, 193.50 (was 430), by Mara Hoffman at The

Outnet; cotton shirt, 169, by Thomsen at Fenwick; sunglasses, models own


Tweed jacket, 480, by Red Valentino at Harvey Nichols; silk shirt, 275, by Equipment at Harvey Nichols; denim jeans, 190, by Current/Elliot; crystal necklace, 564, by Erickson Beamon


CREDITS

Hair stylist: Kim Roy

Make-up artist: Tania Courtney using MAC and Dermalogica

Model: Michaela at Profile

WITH THankS To:

The Markham Inn: themarkhaminn.com

andreas: andreasveg.co.uk

The Pie Man: thepieman.co.uk

Jagos of Chelsea: jagobutchersofchelsea.co.uk


Silk top, 155, by Gryphon at Oxygen

Boutique; silk trousers, 209, by Raoul at Fenwick;

gold and crystal belt, 600, by Mawi;

black mesh open toe shoes by Jimmy Choo


The fairest of them allAnna and Brian Haughton are the force behind Art Antiques London. Nancy Alsop meets the couple to fi nd out why its all about quality in this age of austerity

Last year, one of the furniture people met someone who said: Please come to my house, Ive never been to an antique fair, Ive never bought an antique but I want you to furnish my house for me. ese people are fairly special and they just keep turning up, regales Anna Haughton. I am sitting in a meeting room above the eponymous Brian Haughton gallery in Mayfair fi lled with 18th-century ceramics with the art dealer and his wife Anna, just a few weeks before the third staging of Art

Antiques London in Kensington Gardens. For familiar though their names may not be, this septuagenarian couple are the architects and trailblazers of the international art fair as we know it. Masterpiece, Frieze, the Aff ordable Art Fair all of them took their cue from the Haughtons model, which

started some 34 years ago with the founding of the Ceramic Art Fair. It was though, as it

transpires, a twist of fate that led the pair to dream up the idea. We were sitting in an airport in London on the way to New York for a whole day delayed by a snow storm, and Brian met this chap who was going to Hawaii for a fair where the dealers and collectors and academics all come. And we thought: Well thats interesting, why couldnt we do something like that for ceramics? And we started talking to the museums, because in

48

BRIAN AND ANNA HAUGHTON.indd 48 30/05/2012 14:46

those days the museums and the dealers never got together. And we realised that they needed a place to meet and exchange ideas. These days, as the pair note with an obvious and touching pride, the dealers and the academics rush in on opening day to see one another and exchange photographs of exciting pieces for help with identification. Simply, as Brian puts it: It broke every

barrier. The formula has since been much-emulated, but as one

trade gazette recently noted it has never been bettered (about which they declare themselves a little bit chuffed); after all, they only hold lectures on new research ensuring the level remains high. That this duo who also run an annual fair in New York, and until the recent crash, one in Dubai should have made quite so

excellent a job of their fairs makes a certain sense as you talk to them. Both

are utterly engaging, good humoured and good fun roars of laughter punctuate the conversation and so it stands to reason that they would be naturals at the kind of orchestration and to hazard a guess diplomacy required when so many experts get together under one roof. But then, both had made significant forays in to other high profile careers before embarking upon the art world. For Anna, it was the world of banking, where she was the first woman allowed on

Bottom left: Brian and anna

HaugHton; clockwise

from top left: HummingBird

tuBer By orlanda

Broom, stepHanie Hoppen

gallery; Bud, 2011 kate malone, adrian sassoon; after Hans HolBein tHe younger, 1497 - 1543, darnley fine art; covignano 1909-2004 rome, By rene gruau, stepHen ongpin; soutH indian scriBes caBinet, samina inc; scenes from tHe tales of genji By tosa mitsuyosHi, erik tHomsen fine

art; study of mr. j.j. mouBrays Bay Hunter, By

sir alfred james munnings, rountree fine art

49


the trading floor at Lloyds. When I first went there, women were not allowed to go in unaccompanied by men. One day one of the directors came and said: Theyre going to allow women on the trading floor, apply today. So I applied and I got a letter from the chairman saying: Dear Sir, thank you for your application. Everyone said: I dare you to write back: Dear Madam, thank you very much. Meanwhile for Brian, the boards called (I still have an Equity card my children say I never stopped acting!), and it was while making his name in the repertory theatres that the art and antique trade seed was sewn. Brian at that stage was touring and had a lot of time on his hands. He started buying things and sending them back and Id go to Portobello on a Saturday and sell them. Thats how it started, says Anna, before Brian adds: You would arrive there in the morning and if you hadnt done all your business by 7.15am all the dealers would crowd round with hands outstretched saying: Ill take that, Ill take that They were filling containers to go to Australia and America.

Three decades later, the level is somewhat different, but the passion is patently unchanged. You get the distinct impression with the Haughtons who run the fairs with a small team including their son and daughter that while business is vitally important, it is quality that drives them. As Brian always says: Collectors will always find the money to add that piece they wanted to their collection. You dont want, dare I use the word, a bling market. If the items are good that doesnt mean that everything as to cost millions of pounds, but if the item is of the top quality of its kind, whether it is 1000, 10,000 or 20m, they have a place for it. But if its a piece of bling he tails off. The crux of the winning formula for Art Antiques London is that whilst the Haughtons invite only the best to exhibit, the general public can simply buy tickets on the door, walk in, wander, ask as many questions as they wish (never ever be afraid to ask - dealers love to talk) without any pressure to buy, and if you do buy, every item is strictly vetted by a committee of experts which intrinsically gives collectors confidence.

Unstuffy ease is the thematic link that runs through every aspect of the fair, including the pop up restaurant (catered by the Admiral Crighton), which looks out directly on to the Albert Memorial. The conversation veers between advice for first time collectors (You must love it rather than see it as an investment it must speak to you) to The Scream (Have you heard who bought it? Even in New York theyre gasping. 125m?!). What lectures are they most looking forward to this year I ask? Cue mock horror: Ah, now come on! We couldnt possibly say! I wouldnt dare laughs Brian. Ive always said is that putting on a show is a bit like putting on a theatre performance. Right up to the moment of curtain up, you think its never going to happen. Every time it opens, its a first night. You ask how it changes? Well it changes every year, every show because we change. The audience changes, and you must keep up with that. When its just about to open and its quiet thats the best moment.

Art Antiques London, 9 15 June 15; haughton.com

CloCkwise from top left: Japanese wood and ivory laura Bordignon

gallery; froliCking Horses By aHmed moustafa, Jane kaHan gallery;

weissBort mustard pot, mark mitCHell paintings and drawings

50


A legal force of natureThe Daily Telegraph

One of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator through the newly-formed Institute of Family Law Arbitrators (IFLA).

The first Chief Assessor and Chief Examiner of the Law Societys Family Law Panel.

A Fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers: a global association of lawyers recognised for expertise in their respective countries.

Located in WC1, Stowe Family Law specialises in family law issues; from divorce to cohabitees rights, with dedicated international and childrens teams.

The firms specialist in-house forensic accountancy department tracks down hidden assets and can provide immediate financial advice.

Marilyn Stowe is the senior partner at Stowe Family Law and one of the first solicitors to qualify as a family law arbitrator in England and Wales.Leading the UKs largest dedicated family law firm, she has more than 25 years experience handling divorce cases and family law proceedings.

If you need family law advice, early support can be essential. Stowe Family Law can help.

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stowe family law may 12.indd 1 29/04/2012 20:54

The New English Ballet Company is a breath of fresh air on the ballet scene. Katie Randall meets its indefatigable founder Karen Pilkington-Miksa

BalletsFairy Godmother

52

BALLET STORY.indd 52 30/05/2012 12:26

Istill remember thinking how grubby all of life seemed except for that beautiful stage, recalls the founder of NEBT and former ballerina Karen Pilkington-

Miksa. She is casting her mind back to Giselle, the very first production she danced in as a child back in Washington DC. For this prima-ballerina, the power and lure of ballet was all-consuming from the off: I started dancing when I was about six; there was something about ballet that made sense to me. I can still see my first production, it was the most amazing feeling.

It was this passion that sparked a full and varied career in dance, leading the now Kensington-based Pilkington-Miksa across the globe. When I was about 15 we moved to Seattle and I got into Seattle Ballet when I was 20, she explains. Then I got restless and came to London because I really wanted to do some freelance European dancing. I got into choreographing for various dance schools, formed a dance group and I even performed in my own ballet at Holland Park. As much of an entrepreneur as a ballet dancer, shes also been a firm fixture on the fitness scene in London for years, launching a yoga school in Knightsbridge in the 1970s, long before yoga became a staple in the lives of fitness-minded Londoners.

This chequered career and experience eventually led Pilkington-Miksa to forge a new career in the wings. I realised there were a lot of support systems for talented singers and musicians and that the same bridge organisations didnt exist in ballet. By way of example of the type of difficulties faced by young ballerinas, she recalls how, in her nascent dancing days, when auditioning for a single place at the Royal Ballet, she was dauntingly in competition with over a hundred other hopefuls.

As such, The New English Ballet

strength of the approach of NEBT is that it looks at young talent at the beginning of their careers... so we could see the next MacMillan in the programme. We hope itll become an annual presentation particularly for people from the major companies looking for new talent. he says.

The company will perform a festival of new works each year, from the newly commissioned to existing neo-classical ballets. As Pilkington-Miksa explains, the NEBT receives no government funding, instead relying on a staunch body of supporters who believe in the company. Happily, patrons already form an impressive cast of characters: Darcey Bussell CBE, Mara Galeazzi, Marianella Nuez and Wayne Sleep, as well as guest choreographers Wayne Eagling and Michael Corder are all supporters.

And so it seems that young performers in the creative arts have finally found their fairy godmother in the form of Karen Pilkington-Miksa.

The NEBTs performance of SYNERGIES runs from 4-8 July, as part of the Sadlers Wells Spring/Summer 2012 season at the Peacock Theatre, WC2; nebt.co.uk

Company acts as a performance platform for talented dancers, choreographers, young musicians and artists (Pilkington-Miksa is inspired by Diaghilevs creative template) and will present its first show, Synergies this July. Mixing up neo-classical ballet with artistic and muciscal collaborations, and with set design from young graduate artists, its first offering promises to be an event like no other. With government cuts to arts, dance companies across the country are struggling to fund stage shows and competition has never been so fierce. The major ballet companies are caretakers of our great classical tradition, but there just isnt sufficient stage time to present enough new work, says Pilkington-Miksa. There are many young choreographers who want to choreograph for us because they get their work shown and a lot of dance talent too.

The companys debut performance is part of the Sadlers Wells Spring/

Summer 2012 season and will see 18 young dancers take to the stage. It is precisely this, the fresh jolt of vitality to the industry, that attracted chief

executive and artistic director of Sadlers Wells, Alistair Spalding

to the project. The great

ABOVE: Katya Bourvis, anita Bradshaw, sonoya Mizuno and GeorGina ConnollyABOVE RIGHT: hayley BlaCKBurn BOTTOM RIGHT: sonoya Mizuno, Katya Bourvis and lyn vella-Gatt (ChoreoGrapher)

53

BALLET STORY.indd 53 30/05/2012 12:26

Kidds play Model, actress and all round good egg Jodie Kidd tells Nancy Alsop why shes championing polos re-instatement as

an Olympic sport

In recent years, youve become the face of polo. What so enthralls you about the sport? Wow the face of polo? I dont know about that! But Im certainly happy to be associated with the sport and hopefully lend a hand to raise its profile. Ive played since I was very young and have always loved how fast-paced it is. Its easy to get hooked its a physical yet elegant sport.

Youve just drawn the teams for this years Polo in The Park. Whats the line up looking like? The teams are all strong. Ive got split loyalties seeing MINT Team London play in their home city is great and as a proud English woman Im looking forward to that. But my partner Andrea Vianini is representing Abu Dhabi and Ill be rooting for him, too!

Who is your hottest tip for this years player to watch? Obviously, Im going to say Andrea, but I think I can say that objectively, as well as from a girlfriends point of view. He gives it his everything. He was captain of the winning team at

last years event, so hes got a point to prove and he really wants to bring home the silverware! Itll be the first time his son is watching him play, so thats extra special for us all.

Hurlingham is polos spiritual home. Tell us about the history of the sport at the club... Yes, Hurlingham Park is to polo what Wimbledon is to tennis. When the sport was first played in the UK it was played there. During

the war the land was used to grow vegetables to support the war effort and

then was handed to the people of Fulham as a public park. Its great to have MINT Polo in the Park held here it is bringing it back home in front of big crowds.

What role do you think Hurlingham hosting MINT Polo in the Park has played in getting people interested?The biggest factor is that it will be seen by

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JODIE KIDD.indd 54 30/05/2012 15:33

over 30,000 people. With it being so close to the centre of the capital far more people can have access to it, as opposed to a lot of polo which is played in the countryside.

You are campaigning for polo to be reinstated as an Olympic sport. Why do you think it never made a return following the 1948 Austerity Games? I want our sport to be played in front of as many people as possible I firmly believe that if its given exposure, it will flourish. I think the logistics of moving horses around the globe was the biggest difficulty, especially with the transport which was available in the thirties and forties. Nowadays, we have global polo circuits which regularly move the horses from continent-to-continent, so it is a feasible option once again.

What events at this years Olympics are you most excited about seeing? I always enjoy the equestrian events. Tennis will be good and Andy Murray playing in the UK will cause the same enthusiasm from spectators that we see each summer at Wimbledon.

Sebastian Dawnay now captains the MINT team, and it was his grandfather David Dawnay who captained Team GB at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Is polo is a sport typically handed down the generations?Its definitely something which parents who play polo are always keen for their children to get involved with, purely because its such an addictive and enjoyable sport. Thats not to say that people whose parents didnt are excluded not at all! Its a fairly small community so clubs always welcome new members, of whatever level, with open arms.

Why do you think that it is the common conception that polo is the preserve of the wealthy? I think people have a preconceived idea that polo is exclusively for a certain type of person, but that just isnt the case. Yes, it can be expensive, but not everyone has to play at the very highest level.

You were a show jumper in your teens, as was your father. Despite your illustrious modelling career, has sport always been your first love? Sport is a great way to escape whatever you do in your professional or personal life. I love sport it allows you to get your mind off things. Im from a very sporty family and my brother Jack actually plays polo, too. He played against Andrea at last years MINT Polo in the Park, so there were some split loyalties for me!

As soon as your son is old enough, will you have him saddled up and learning the basics of the sport? Its certainly something hell be exposed to, so if he takes to it and enjoys it then Andrea and I will encourage him.

You travel the world for polo tournaments. Where is the most exciting place in the world to play? There are some very exotic locations: Buenos Aires is a wonderful place and polo is in their blood. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are so different to the UK that its always an experience to go there. But I think

that polo being brought back to London is massive; the passionate, noisy 30,000-strong crowd makes for a great event. Polo is a quintessentially British summer sport, so having it back in our capital is very special.

Youre busy juggling work with being a new mother. Has motherhood changed you?I dont know if it has changed me that much, because I felt that I was very ready to become a mum. Work commitments obviously come second when you start a family, but its a great feeling and Indio is lots of fun, so the whole family is enjoying getting to know him.

How do you relax once polo season is over? I love cars, as you probably know. But there are actually quite a lot of similarities between polo and motor sport. They both get the pulse going! The horses get up to 35mph which can be pretty scary when youre in the saddle.

polointheparklondon.com

From leFt: jodie arrives at hurlingham to draw the teams on a harrods horse and cart; with the british team; jodie and andrea vianini hold the Polo olymPic troPhy (back leFt: oscar mancini, Front leFt: george meyrick, right back: jack richardson, right Front: lanto sheridan)

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JODIE KIDD.indd 55 30/05/2012 15:33

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Luke Irwin is at the vanguard of rug design. Nancy Alsop went to meet one very charming man at his Pimlico showroom

MAGICCARPETRIDEMAGIC

INTERIORS

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LUKE IRWIN.indd 57 30/05/2012 19:20

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Just back from a whirlwind few days at the Salone del Mobile in Milan, Luke Irwin is full of proselytizing zeal. There is nothing to touch it.

New York? Bland. Decorex here? Pretty bland. Milan is just streets ahead, effuses the Pimlico-based rug designer. Every gallery has something going on. To me its a much better version of Paris. The people are better looking, better dressed, theres better food. Plus, as he says, warming to his theme: I prefer the Italians to the French. All that pseudo intellectualism. I was listening to the radio this morning and there was a French comic taking the mickey out of Sarkozy becoming more and more hysterical. Its that little man narcissist thing. When he was being elected, you thought: This is Frances great hope. Then he meets Carla and hes so impressed with himself

LUKE IRWIN.indd 58 30/05/2012 15:58

that shed even look at him that he didnt do anything from then on

There is about Irwin articulate and possessed of the kind charm that comes from giving his riveted attention to whomever he is talking something engagingly unguarded. Were sitting in his exquisite Pimlico showroom, surrounded by examples of some of the most beautiful and expertly crafted hand-made rugs youre likely to find in the world (its deliberate that there arent piles of rugs, because when youre in Istanbul or Marrakech, by the time theyve pulled back to rug three, Ive lost focus) with pieces of well-edited 1950s Italian furniture dotted about. It feels stylishly homely, and Irwins stream-of-consciousness discourse on French politics does nothing to disabuse me of the sensation that he is a man comfortable

in his own carefully crafted environment, and in his own skin.

But then for Irwin, now 43, arriving at his chosen career was by no means a linear process. An Irish-born Old Etonian, he left school to work at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, but when the lure of London called, unable to find a theatre job, he worked first at Christies, then in PR, and later decamped to Dorset where he took up work as an antique dealer for the Duchess of Cornwalls sister, Annabel Elliot, (whose daughter Alice he went on to marry).

But antiques dealing was not quite his metier either, and it was through sheer chance that at a lunch given by his in-laws, he was placed next to a 12-year-old Tibetan boy who would change the course of his professional life. I was next to this kid who was there with his mother. I asked where he lived, and he said in Kathmandu, and that his father was a master weaver. The spell was cast, and for the next six months, Irwin became absorbed by studying the craft, although, as he says: In terms of doing anything new, it felt like bastardising something that had been done better 70 years earlier. So what happened was I hit on the idea of crop circles as rugs. Theyre very unusual, if you bought one you could say: this supposedly happened in Sussex in July 1996 - or not!

That was 10 years ago. These days, even Barack Obama has one of Irwins designs (a gift from the Irish nation on St Patricks Day). The story of that particular rug is revealing of Irwins patent interest in that which is outside his immediate world; for while he has a damning disdain for the gossipy politics of the insular interiors set, he certainly has an outward-looking stance on world affairs. It was based on a dream that I had, during the time Obama and Clinton were slugging it out in the primaries. I began thinking about how the Stars and Stripes is very cool flag, except all the design is in one corner. As I fell asleep, the stars turned into doves and the doves started flying across the stripes. There was no political undertone though personally I think W should be in Guantanamo Bay as we speak it was just the joy of translating something as whimsical as a dream into a product quickly.

Its a piece that commands an emotional response, and illustrative of this, Irwin recounts: At one of the fairs a shaven-headed lesbian from Austen Texas burst into tears at the stand. She asked: Whats your interpretation of it? So I said: You could suggest that as Europeans, weve seen the US as the champion of the underdog, stepping into bully boy stuff, but with Bush, you became the

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INTERIORS

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bully, suddenly slapping people about for no reason. Maybe you can see this design as peace leaving America. And maybe you can view it in a diff erent way: that now with Obama, you are restoring peace. She burst into uncontrollable sobs and had to helped off the stand!

at in a decade, hes never designed two rugs the same, that he should have worked on projects as disparate as the Groucho Club, Bovey Castle and CentreParcs is testament to Irwins unerring eye, his meticulous insistence on unparalleled quality and his approach to his customers. Its not unusual that he should go to see a clients house to better understand their taste and to help them articulate what they want after all, as he points out, his rugs are truly bespoke; designs, materials, colours, all are tailored to the exact requirements of the customer. If you have a level of sophistication and a level of wealth, you really have nowhere else to look, because this is really where its at, he says before qualifying: ats an arrogant shout, but its probably true. And what we are is the antithesis of hoighty toity interior companies, who can have a snotty attitude. Why take the Ryan Air approach to customer

relations? Its insane. You go back to that scene in Pretty Woman, and the line is: Big mistake. People are generally unpleasant when they dont know what theyre doing.

Design snobbery works, he observes, in a cyclic pattern; punters can so easily equate quality with astronomically high price tags. Weve forgotten how to use our eyes. People now so associate cost with quality, rather than actually looking at something and thinking: My god, that is beautiful. And it may be cheaper than something else, but its actually better. He warms to his theme: A Persian rug will last four hundred years. Its got nothing to do with fashion because those things go out of fashion. You buy a fashion rug everyone knows what it is, everyone knows what it costs. eres nothing unique or exclusive about it because you probably know 5000 other people who have the same thing, but youve paid top dollar for it. Its lazy, its easy, its McDonalds.

Railing is something Irwin does with panache. Next up for a damning appraisal? e Candy Brothers. If I was given an apartment in One Hyde Park, Id accept

it so I could sell it. It was wonderful when they were building it, because from Sloane Street you could actually see into the park. I thought Bowater House had more merit as a 1960s piece of hideousness than what theyve done at least it was real. is to me is the lowest common denominator. Its like: Ive made 60m in Kazakhstan, how do I blow a load of money on a crappy apartment? Why not just take a permanent suite at Claridges? While hes at pains to point out that in many ways, the Candy Brothers are ballsy, clever and brave theyve made a lot of money that breed of aesthetic is, in Irwins eyes, completely devoid of sophistication. Its amazingly puerile. Its like: What does a 16-year old boy think is really cool? I suppose what we do is the antithesis.

Indeed, Irwins oeuvre demonstrably has stylistic integrity and as such is an extension of the man himself. But here he stops himself: Talking about interiors can be so earnest. Its slightly beyond me. Id rather talk about football. Or history. Or anything.

Luke Irwin, 22 Pimlico Road , SW1; lukeirwin.com

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INTERIORS

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Gemma Billington falls for the surreal at e Saatchi Gallery and gets a taste for the art of decoupage

InteriorInspirations

FURNITURECHRISTOPHER GUY

e bold creations of designer Christopher Guy are an intriguing mlange of

classicism and modernism with a nod to surrealism through curved lines. We love!Cadogan Pier, SW3; christopherguy.com; also

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DESIGN NIMBUS e Saatchi Gallery is stocking a limited- edition series of the print Nimbus by Dutch artist Berndnaut Smilde to accompany the gallerys current exhibition, Out of Focus. A fantastical and surreal installation, Nimbus creates the illusion of an ominous cloud fl oating through a vacant room. 150, saatchistore.com

INTERIORS

RETAILER OF THE MONTH KEIR TOWNSENDInterior design practice Keir Townsend has opened a beautiful new showroom on the Old Brompton Road. e company has amassed a prestigious portfolio of residential and commercial clients and its range includes contemporary accessories and innovative interior design from around the globe. Were loving the selection of furniture from Laurameroni (shown here)... Keir Townsend, 142 Old Brompton Road, SW7; keirtownsend.com

DESIGN DECOUPAGE John Derian is a contemporary artist from New York who specialises in the art of decoupage, creating glass plates, trays and paperweights out of his inexhaustible range of motifs. Antique plants, animals and curiosities are re-printed and pieced together in layers under glass, which results in a timelessly beautiful eff ect. Available at benpentreath.com

InspirationsInspirationsJohn Derian is a contemporary artist from New York who specialises in the art of decoupage, creating glass plates, trays and

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INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS 2.indd 65 30/05/2012 15:24

66

INTERIORS

My idea of heaven is... An early morning ride. e thing Im proudest of is... Creating an environment that people enjoy being in.Something I wish I were better at is... Being able to play a musical instrument. I would describe my style as... Colourful, and carefree. e best advice I ever got was... From my mother-in-law who said that for a couple it is best to let the wife arrange the furniture and the husband arrange the wine cellar. My lucky break was... Starting my own company. e person who would play me in a fi lm would be... Sissy Spacek. If I could choose someone to write the soundtrack to my life... It would be Gabriel Faur. e book that changed my life was... Mary Webbs Gone to Earth. My best buy ever was... A painting by Meninsky, its an abstract painting of bathers running into the sea. e best present I ever received was... A puppy. My favourite saying is... Hang on tight. e best hour of the day is... e hour just before sunset. My idea of a good night out is... Going to the ballet. And the perfect night in would be... Lying on the sofa reading a good book while my husband Tim plays the piano.

A Designers LifeA brief encounterwith... Kit Kemp

1. Chelsea has the most beautiful and immaculate houses but they can take quite a bashing on the inside when hulking teenagers and large deliveries arrive at the house. I use fabric walling on the inside of smallish areas. The fabrics dont tear like wallpaper and seem to wear better than painted walls; it gives a luxurious cosy feel like sitting in an elegant shoebox.

2. I always sit curtains well back from

the window reveals so every ounce of light comes into the room. I like pelmets but remember that so much light comes from on high and they can block it out. I love boiled wools, and if there is a very draughty room they look good as curtains.

3. Dogs and cats are so much part of

the family. I love to make a matching cushion for their baskets. They should look as fashionable as the rest of the house.

At weekends I most enjoy... Riding and walking the dogs. Someone whose style I admire is... Christian Liaigre. e thing that gets me down is... People who exclude others. My favourite holiday is... Being in Biarritz with the children. My favourite thing about Chelsea is... e fl ower show once a year and especially this year as Furzey Gardens, a project that works with young people with learning diffi culties, where my daughter works, is there and is being designed by Chris Beardshaw.If I could change one thing about Chelsea, it would be... ere are too many road signs and yellow lines.What people might not know about me is... I get sea sick, even standing on a fl oating pontoon.

Kit Kemp is co-founder of Firmdale Hotels; fi rmdalehotels.com

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FOOD&travel

Albert Roux launched the UKs first three-Michelin-starred restaurant Le Gavroche with

his brother Michel in 1967, now run by nephew Michel Roux Jnr. He talks food with Absolutely

the master chefALBERT ROUX.indd 69 30/05/2012 12:25

FOOD&TRAVELTRAVEL

SOUFFL SUISSESSESou s with Swiss cheese

Did you always want to be a chef?It was my second choice, my fi rst choice was the priesthood.Culinary heroes?E Nignon. Meal that changed your life?My mothers milk. What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?Receiving an OBE. What projects do you have going on at the moment? Weve just fi nished e Atholl, and projects in Australia and South Africa.Top three ingredients you like to cook with? Butter, cream and wine.What dish do you like to knock up for a quick supper?Skate and chips.Best culinary advice you have ever been given? Be true to yourself.Guilty food pleasure?Cream and butter.Biggest kitchen disaster?Never had one.Where do you go to eat in London when you are not working?I enjoy my wifes dinners at home. How do you like to relax?Fishing.Future plans? To be happy.

albertroux.co.uk

SERVES 4

PREPARATION TIME: 20 MINUTESIngredients: 140 g (5oz) butter, 65g (2oz) fl our, 700 ml (28fl .oz) milk, 5 egg yolks, 1L (1pts) double cream, 6 egg whites, 200g (7oz) grated Gruyre or Emmental

cheese, salt and freshly ground white pepper

THE SOUFFL MIXTURE: Preheat the oven to 200oC/400oF/Gas 6. Melt 65g (2oz) butter in a small

saucepan set over low heat. Using a small wire whisk, stir in the fl our. Cook gently for 2- or 3-minutes, stirring continuously.

Take the pan off the heat and leave the roux to cool slightly. Bring the milk to the boil, then pour it over the cooled roux, whisking all the time. Set the pan over a high heat and, stirring continuously, bring the mixture to the boil and

cook for 3 minutes. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the egg yolks. Season to taste with salt and

pepper. Dot the surface with 1 tbls butter, cut into small pieces, to prevent a skin forming. Set aside at room temperature.

Meanwhile, chill eight round 8cm (3in) tartlet tins in the refrigerator or freezer for a few minutes. Remove and immediately grease them generously with

softened butter and arrange on a baking sheet.

ASSEMBLING THE SOUFFLS:Pour the cream into

Absolutely Chelsea 06 2012

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