Hamptons AREA GUIDE to 'Kensal Rise' & 'Queens Park'
perfectly with the way you live. We want to create a kitchen design that works for you, and so one of the first things you will find when you come to us is that we are great at listening! Whether you have specific Pinterest and Instagram pictures, or a very vague design notion, it is our job to listen as well as ask the right questions. This way we can start to understand what you like, what you want, and what you need in your new kitchen.
Why should someone choose to come to Modus Kitchens?
Renovate 12 18 30 24
artwork, however lived-in properties provide a different challenge. Using my 30 years of experience, I will give lived-in properties a new lease of life by decluttering and re-styling pieces that are already there, a small change can have a huge impact.
At Modus Kitchens our designers are our key assets. Their product knowledge, insights into the styles colour and design possibilities within each kitchen range allows them to steer clients towards the right product for their needs.
What have been your major influences and inspirations?
I have been fortunate enough to live, work and travel throughout Asia and Europe, which has undoubtedly influenced my work; I take huge inspiration from these experiences. My Swedish background means that Scandi and Japandi interiors are where I feel my personal style most aligns, however we are able to offer a range of styles to our clients, dependent on what the property calls for.
floors, and and Nobilia choice not inspiration to suit cater to showrooms we kitchen design whether you kitchen, fully house it we time? was very The kitchen cooking. and design and food enjoyable. It was a time spot and the home. with seating multipurpose much as a dining room, could give kitchen, what about the
years ago, I quickly interior market my decades of design services Kong, France and experience with properties, my daughter Stage in 2018.
We pride ourselves on adding value and the experience and technical knowledge of our designers means they can overcome many design challenges to give clients what they want but did not think was possible. Being a London based kitchen company we have frequently designed kitchens for homes with uneven or slanted walls, awkward heights, loft conversions etc. No matter the challenge we can proudly say the end result is always a kitchen that meets our Client’s needs - beautiful, functional and highly personalised.
In developing a style for a client’s property who takes the lead or is it a collaborative effort?
In terms of home staging, we take full creative control of the project. We look at the big picture, considering the location of the property, the demographic for the area and who the property is most likely to attract and use this information to stage the space accordingly. When undertaking an interior design project, it is always a collaborative effort. We pride ourselves on combining our expertise with the clients personal taste to create the perfect space for them.
people selling their Staging is the art of let. This shows the therefore maximises quickest timeframe buyers/renters and we believe themselves. that staging a three times faster. online, more viewings
helps the buyer to future people cannot space, which is
A wonderful perk of working in this industry is that each project has its own rewards, so I wouldn’t say there is a particular project that we are most proud of. We take great pride in all of our work, and always leave feeling satisfied that we have done an excellent job. However, we also understand the importance of numbers within this industry, and after staging a property in Notting Hill which sold for 100k over the asking price, I was immensely proud.
How would you like people to get in touch with you?
We are always eager to welcome new clients, so if you are interested in our range of services we would love to hear from you. You can call us, or send us an email and we’d be very happy to help!
AND SO THE ADVENTURE BEGINS. You are free-spirited. You don’t play by the rules. Your life is an adventure… why should your wedding be any different?
Welcome
A very warm welcome to Kensal Rise and the surrounding areas from all of us at Hamptons.
You will be moving into one of the most highly regarded areas in London. Desirable homes, tree lined avenues, diverse shops and restaurants and an eclectic, vibrant population. .
Hamptons has been matching people with property, locally, nationally and internationally, since 1869.
We were pioneers, setting standards that few of our rivals could match and this hasn’t changed since.
Today, over 150 years since we first set up home in Pall Mall, with 15 decades of finding property and looking after people under our belt, our clients now consider us to be their, ‘home experts’.
Yours sincerely,
Thomas Jones - Head of Sales
Fraser Wright - Head of Lettings
Kensal Rise
Hamptons offers you a warm welcome to Kensal Rise
Congratulations, if you are house hunting in Kensal Rise, you have already won. A home in this great area with all it offers, automatically makes you the envy of many. Now in order to make your transition as smooth and hassle free as possible Hamptons have put together this great guide which will help you choose the best schools, learn a little about planning
and building control, read tips on where to shop, eat and lot’s more, all packed into one little guide with clickable links.
Perhaps most importantly we have researched some of the leading local professionals and experts who can help you add value and personalise your soon to be new home.
A little bit of history
“A big WELCOME and enjoy”
The area first gained popularity in the late 19th century following the arrival of the railway. The large scale Royal Agricultural Show was held here in 1879 and attended by Queen Victoria herself. Queen’s Park was named for the monarch and now forms a Conservation Area, allowing the preservation of its striking Victorian architecture.
Celebrated football team Queens Park Rangers was formed in Queen’s Park in the late 19th century and the area has counted actor Daniel Craig, novelist Zadie Smith and former Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Alexandra Shulman amongst its residents.
While there has been some regeneration of the area in recent years with the EcoWorld development at King’s Holt Terrace and The Avenue in nearby Brondesbury Park, houses in Kensal Rise and Queen’s Park are still largely Victorian and Edwardian with the most desirable occupying Harvist Road, Milman Road, Kingswood Avenue and Chevening Road that overlook the park. A good stock of large 1920s and 30s properties can also be found on streets such as Aylestone Avenue and Manor House Drive.
Why move to Kensal Rise?
Kensal Rise and Queen’s Park have much to offer, with families drawn here by the array of stunning period properties which are more affordable than in other areas of north west London such as Notting Hill and Maida Vale.
Despite its many amenities and fantastic transport links, the area retains an appealing village feel and strong sense of community with the abundant open
space of Queen’s Park at its heart.
A good range of independent and high street shops are clustered around the bustling main thoroughfares of Chamberlayne Road and Salusbury Road. Fashion boutiques and antique shops like Supra and Circus sit alongside a WHSmith with a post office and supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Co-op.
Residents can choose from an exceptional range of eateries and bars from stylish artisan cafes Minkie’s Deli and Crazy Baker to modern Italian at Morso and Paradise by way of Kensal Green for outstanding pub food and entertainment. Catch a film at the boutique Lexi Cinema where all profits are donated to charity or take time to relax at Jivita Ayurveda spa and wellness centre.
Ideal living
T here are several charming parks and gardens in the immediate area, chief among them Kensal Green and the glorious 30-acre Queen’s Park with its tennis courts, miniature golf, playground and café. Families can also enjoy walks along the Grand Union Canal and visits to the Green Flag-awarded Roundwood Park in nearby Harlesden.
There are many well-regarded schools locally, including College Green Nursery, ARK Franklin Primary Academy, Princess Frederica CofE, Salusbury Primary, Kenmont Primary, Manor School and Bales College School and Sixth Form. Independent schools in the area include Maple Walk in Harlesden and Bassett House in North Kensington
The area is situated in Zone 2 around four miles north west of central London and has excellent bus and rail links. Underground stations Queen’s Park and Kensal Green are on the Bakerloo line
with frequent services to Euston, while Kensal Rise overground station serves Clapham, Richmond and Stratford. To the north are Willesden and West Hampton, with Notting Hill to the south, Kilburn to the east and Harlesden to the west.
www.hamptons.co.uk
Famous Residents
Kensal Rise and the surrounding area has been a home to rockstars, celebrities, athletes, academics and artists.
Here are a few notable names...
Paloma Faith
Zadie Smith
Alexandra Shulman
Thandie Newton
Rachel Weisz
Mark Strong
Lily Allen
Jason Isaacs
Sienna Miller
Cillian Murphy
Thandie Newton
Zadie Smith
Samantha Spiro
Fredo
Dua Lipa
Karen Buck
Singer, Songwriter
Author
Chief Editor, British Vogue
Actress
Actress
British Actor
Singer, Songwriter and Author
Actor
Actress
Actress
Actress
Actress
Actress and Singer
Rapper and Singer
Pop Music Artist
Member of Parliament for Westminster
Rita Ora, Singer, Songwriter
Daniel Craig, Actor
Pubs & Live Music
Paradise by way of Kensal Green
Whether you’re looking for somewhere to let your hair down at the weekend, enjoy incredible food, celebrate a special occasion, or enjoy a drink with friends, then you are in the right place. Our unique venue offers everything you could need, with an award-winning restaurant, a critically acclaimed nightclub, and a host of private rooms available for hire. Come in and explore Paradise. We promise you won’t be disappointed!
19 Kilburn Ln, London W10 4AE. 020 8969 0098
www.theparadise.co.uk/
Whippet Inn
We pride ourselves on creating an atmosphere that reflects our vibrant neighbouring communities of Kensal Rise, Queens Park, and Willesden. With the best producers and suppliers on our side, we offer modern seasonal food, complimented by an excellent range of local and continental craft beer with a wine list to match. Our heated, all-weather garden space is a mecca for alfresco drinking, dining and private hire, and our pub is the perfect place to meet friends and family for a drink, a bite, or both. Join us seven days a week for lunch or dinner, grab a coffee or just roll in for a few pints.
64 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3JJ. 020 8968 8142
www.thewhippetinn.com/
The Island
The Island NW10 is an independent local pub on a sunny corner in the heart of Kensal Rise. We love good food, great service, fun and laughter. Our menu has a seasonal focus, serving fresh predominantly British produce carefully sourced from the best local producers. There will always be vegetarian and vegan elements in our food and drink menus. Our real ales and beers from around the country are rotated regularly, keeping the selection fresh and interesting. There is an extensive cellar of wines from around the world to choose from. We are developing a list of non-alcoholic drinks, beers, kombuchas and other delights. We offer an all-day brunch on Saturday and incredible Sunday roasts.
123 College Rd, London NW10 5HA. 020 8960 0693
www..theislandnw10.com/
The Eagle
The Eagle offers a warm, friendly environment for anyone to relax and enjoy themselves. We offer great value, homecooked traditional pub grub alongside a great selection of well-lookedafter beers and ales, as well as wines, spirits, and soft drinks so that there is something for everyone.
50 Ladbroke Grove, London W10 5SL. 020 3757 8051
www.theeagle.co.uk/
“Wet your whistle”
Should you wish to wet your whistle in Kensal Rise you could hardly have a wider choice. ‘Old school’ inns and taverns, cocktail bars, live music venues, gastropubs, they all abide aplenty in Kensal Rise. Here are a few suggestions but the best way to find your ‘local’ is surely to take the air and simply explore.
The Chamberlayne Gastropub Kensal Rise
Experience the allure of pub brasserie cuisine at The Chamberlayne Pub. Our establishment pairs the warmth of a traditional pub with a culinary adventure, creating a unique blend of comfort and refinement. Coupled with a lively atmosphere and rustic decor, The Chamberlayne is the go-to place for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Our pub showcases a broad selection of both local and international drinks, and expertly crafted martinis. We warmly welcome visitors to join us, to appreciate the blend of French-style dining and traditional pub ambience that makes us a favourite on Chamberlayne Road.
83 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3ND. www.thechamberlayne.com/
The Mason’s Arms
Our relaxed atmosphere at the Mason’s Arms allows you to dine informally throughout our pub. A mere 1-minute walk from Kensal Green tube station, we invite you to come and chill out in the best beer garden in West London to the soundtrack of our resident DJ`s. Come and support your team throughout the Premiership season or pop in and check out our fantastic function room with balcony and all mod cons and plan your next event with us. All this from our beautiful 19th-century pub.
665 Harrow Rd, London NW10 5NU. 020 8960 2278
www.themasonsarmsnw10.co.uk/
Alice House
Alice House is a comfortable and lively neighbourhood social built on local spirit. The ideal spot provides relaxed workspaces and community catch-ups alongside great fair-trade coffee and excellent seasonal food, including weekday lunches, Saturday brunch and Sunday roasts, all delivered by a friendly and engaging team who know their guests. Bar with great independent local beers and wine, seasonal cocktails, and sustainably sourced food. Whether you are looking for a quick drink after work, an evening meal with friends and family, or to host an event that you are guaranteed to remember, we have a way to make everyone feel welcome. 53-55 Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NJ. 020 7624 0008
www.alicehouse.co.uk/queens-park
Local Hotspots
Enjoy an artisan coffee, while exploring great fashion boutiques right in the picturesque heart of Kensal Rise!
Dark Habit
Dark Habit Coffee is a quaint and stylish Coffee Shop and Wine specialist in Queen’s Park. Seasonal coffees are available from selected roasters. There is also a carefully curated selection of fine wines available for you to sample too.
72A Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NU.
www.darkhabitcoffee.co.uk/
Cafe Noir
A beautiful café with comfortable seating, serving delicious fresh cakes and snacks with rich full-bodied coffees and speciality teas available. Also serving scrumptious milkshakes and other fresh healthy drinks. All food is freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
314 Kilburn Ln, London W9 3EF. 020 8962 0537
www.cafenoirw9.com/
Dark & Light Coffee
A contemporary coffee shop serving delicious coffees with fresh pastries, cakes, and snacks too. Our friendly staff look forward to welcoming you. 22, College Parade, Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6RN. 020 7450 3549
www.darkandlightcoffee.com/
Parlour
We are open all day with something to eat most of the day too. The Best Full English, wonderful seasonal set menus with always a few old favourites – Epic brunch and Sunday Lunches, and even a few lovely things to drink with it all too. Serving the best Brazilian Coffee in town.
5 Regent Street, Kensal Green, London, NW10 5LG
www.parlourkensal.com/
Bel & Nev
Bel & Nev is a family-friendly café in the heart of Kensal Rise serving great coffee and tasty, seasonal food and cakes. Everything is homemade in the tiny open kitchen in the café by trained chefs, husband, and wife team, Bel & Nev. Also serving the community with great coffee, delicious, homemade food, and good music too. We look forward to welcoming you.
15 Station Terrace, London NW10 5RX. 020 3720 8825
www.belandnev.com/
Nooki
Our little Kensal Rise shop showcases all our beautiful womenswear and accessories alongside refreshingly curated lifestyle brands, kids’ clothing, toys, and gifts. It is perfect for gift shopping, whether you are treating yourself or another lucky person. With a love of pattern, and generally just wanting something a little different, each season we work together from a starting point of vintage finds, prints, patterns, and a general idea of things we love and want to wear personally. Over time we have discovered that if you don’t love it, then you can’t sell it!
101 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3ND. 020 7952 1758
www.nookidesign.com/
Supra
A designer label store selling curated pieces for both men and women along with fabulous accessories, shoes and more. Please see our website or visit us in-store. We are a family-run business and we look forward to welcoming you and assisting you in finding exactly what you are looking for.
71 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3ND. 020 8968 6868
www.supralondon.com/
Ediit
Ediit womenswear is a destination, multi-label, independent boutique based in the heart of Queens Park London, selling a selection of European, Scandinavian and British Brands. We are passionate about what we do and always aim to find ontrend pieces and focus on fabrics, fit and attention to detail. We are home to some of the best womenswear brands on the high street including Fabienne Chapot, Bellerose, American Vintage and much more. 73 Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NJ. 020 7372 7390
www.ediitstore.com/
Trotters
Established in 1990, Trotters offers an exclusive range of beautiful children’s clothing, footwear, and accessories. At Trotters, we pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and a fun shopping experience for both parents and children, exceptional quality, great design and excellent value. Our customers travel from all over the world to purchase our exclusive brands which cannot be found elsewhere. Unit 1080 Westfield Shopping Centre, Wood Ln, London W12 7GB. 020 8743 2754
www.trotters.co.uk/
Interview with Modus Kitchens
Please tell us a little about your company?
Modus Kitchens are a family friendly business who have been designing and fitting beautiful kitchens throughout the whole of London for over 15 years. Our newly refurbished showroom is set over 2 floors, and showcases Mereway, Pronorm and Nobilia furniture ranges. The breadth of choice not only provides clients with inspiration to suit their lifestyle but also allows us to cater to most budgets. Unlike most showrooms we offer a holistic approach to kitchen design and installation, therefore, whether you would like us to just supply the kitchen, fully install it or create an extension to house it we are able to help.
How have kitchens evolved over time?
The average kitchen 60 years ago was very different from kitchens today. The kitchen was a utilitarian space, only used for cooking. They lacked the technology and design features that have made cooking and food preparation easier and more enjoyable. It seems hard to believe, but there was a time when the kitchen wasn’t the social spot and hub of activity that it is today.
Kitchens have become the heart of the home. Open-plan lay outs and islands with seating have turned the space into a multipurpose room, a homework station as much as a place for cooking, combining dining room, lounge, and living room in one.
If there is one piece of advice you could give to a family in the market for a kitchen, what would it be?
It is important not to only think about the
aesthetics of the kitchen. The design must also work in terms of the functionality, usability and space.
At Modus we design and fit kitchens that sit perfectly with the way you live. We want to create a kitchen design that works for you, and so one of the first things you will find when you come to us is that we are great at listening! Whether you have specific Pinterest and Instagram pictures, or a very vague design notion, it is our job to listen as well as ask the right questions. This way we can start to understand what you like, what you want, and what you need in your new kitchen.
Why should someone choose to come to Modus Kitchens?
At Modus Kitchens our designers are our key assets. Their product knowledge, insights into the styles colour and design possibilities within each kitchen range allows them to steer clients towards the right product for their needs.
We pride ourselves on adding value and the experience and technical knowledge of our designers means they can overcome many design challenges to give clients what they want but did not think was possible. Being a London based kitchen company we have frequently designed kitchens for homes with uneven or slanted walls, awkward heights, loft conversions etc. No matter the challenge we can proudly say the end result is always a kitchen that meets our Client’s needs - beautiful, functional and highly personalised.
Kensal Rise Arts
Why not enjoy a night at one of the great theatres spotted around Kensal Rise!
99 Projects
We represent a selection of established, emerging, local, and international artists and showcase an urban and eclectic, everchanging roster of Solo Exhibitions and Group Shows, both online and in pop-up gallery spaces. We want the works we show to brighten and lift the walls of local and visiting collectors’ homes, so we will always show artists with energy and enthusiasm for their practice. We will ensure there is a mix of original paintings, photography, collages, sculptures, editions, and screen prints so that there are access points for new collectors as well as opportunities to invest in major works for each artist. Unit 311, canalot studios, 222 Kensal Rd, London W10 5BN. 07944 911820
www.99projects.co.uk/
Lexi Cinema
The Lexi Cinema is London’s first independent boutique cinema and social enterprise. A single screen is staffed by local volunteers with all profits going to an eco-village in South Africa. Woke. There’s a gallery bar exhibiting a broad range of work with a slant towards local artists. The programme ranges from blockbusters to arthouse and foreign films, plus special events, Q&As and classic movie seasons. They also run the Nomad Cinema – a travelling summer pop-up named by the Evening Standard as “London’s best outdoor cinema”.
194b Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3JU. 020 3011 5523
www.thelexicinema.co.uk/ TheLexiCinema.dll/Home
Serena Morton Gallery
Morton is passionate about her gallery being based in the vibrant community of RBK&C and working with the primary market of her contemporaries. The Gallery is open by appointment so please see our website for details of upcoming exhibitions. The Gallery Collection offers you a path to explore and a chance to discover a variety of artists and mediums (photography, painting, and sculpture).
343 Ladbroke Grove, London W10 6HA. 07716 558732
www.serenamorton.com/ \
Wilder Gallery
Wilder Gallery, founded in December 2020 and opening its doors in April 2021, is an independent gallery in the heart of Kensal Rise showcasing emerging and contemporary art. The gallery presents an innovative physical exhibition program, alongside an online exhibition program, with a mission to champion and support the most exciting emerging and contemporary artists. Our physical exhibition program specialises in solo and duo presentations with an emphasis on showcasing the works of female-identifying artists. We use our online exhibition program to fundraise for artist and gallery-nominated charitable causes. We have donated to the Trussell Trust, Cancer Research UK, The Brain Tumour Charity, Bees & Refugees and Mind UK to name a few. 77 College Rd, London NW10 5ES. 07747 635823
www.wilder.gallery/
Kiln Theatre
The Transformed Tricycle Theatre is renamed Kiln Theatre - a place of energy, creativity, and stories in Kilburn. We view the world through a variety of lenses, bringing unheard voices into the mainstream. We present highquality and innovative work, which provokes debate and emotionally engages. Located in Brent, the most culturally diverse borough in London, we are a local venue with an international vision.
269 Kilburn High Rd, London NW6 7JR. 020 7328 1000
www.kilntheatre.com/
Brent Museum
Situated in the library of Willesden Green, Brent Museum and Archives, hold a variety of material covering the history of the local areas of Brent for over 50 years and a collection of over 10,000 artefacts, videos, oral history recordings and other items that reflect working and domestic life in Brent from about 1850 to the present day. Free temporary exhibitions that feature newly acquired objects, objects which have been in storage for decades and loaned objects from other museums.
Willesden Library Centre, 95 High Rd, London NW10 2SF. 020 8937 3600
Mini Picassos is an art school for children and adults who are excited about art, artists and being creative. We offer a wide range of art courses, host birthday parties & run great holiday workshops. You will find our studio space in Northwest London, close to Kensal Rise Overground station. We are an independent and very yellow studio, sharing our passion for art with the community at 8 Station Terrace, NW10 5RT for the last decade. An art school for toddlers, children and adults who are excited about art, artists and being creative. Whether you’re 15 months or 103 years old, you’ll find something new to learn at our studio.
8 Station Terrace, London NW10 5RT. 07774 705975
www.minipicassos.co.uk/
Family days out
Kensal Rise is a great destinations for a family trip offering entertainment for kids of all ages. We’ve picked some of the most popular family-friendly things to do and sorted them into a handy list.
Queen’s Park
Queen’s Park is a community-focused green space in a densely populated part of London, equally perfect for finding peace and quiet or getting out for some fun and exercise!
The Park has tennis courts, a pitch and putt course, an ornamental garden, a children’s playground with a paddling pool, a small farm, and a café on site to provide you with all you need making it the perfect day out for all the family.
Queen’s Park, Kingswood Avenue, London NW6 6SG. 07786 588861
Queen’s Parks Gardens offers something for everyone. Trees, grass areas and a rose garden as well as more active facilities within the park. Facilities include a well-designed playground, multi-use and free-to-use ball court, wildlife garden, a specifically designated “dog run” area, and seating.
Emslie Horniman’s Pleasance is a staffed park with the following facilities: a children’s play area, an all-weather floodlit sports area, changing rooms, several works of contemporary art, and public toilet facilities. The formal Voysey Garden has been completely restored to its original design. There is a kiosk during the summer months.
Kensal Rd, London W10 5EG www.rbkc.gov.uk/parks-leisure-andculture/parks/emslie-hornimanspleasance
Museum of Brands
The Museum of Brands is a treasure trove of retro design and memories including Rimmel cosmetics from the 1890s, First World War Oxo Cubes, Mars Bars, Rolos and KitKats from the 1930s and a shiny 1970s Chopper Bike. The museum is totally family-friendly, with trails and adventure bags to kick-start conversations about the brands we know and love. The Museum’s gift shop sells retro-inspired items, many created from images in the collection, including vintage posters, homewares, old-fashioned toys and games old school postcards, gift wrap and cards. There is also a gorgeous southfacing microclimate courtyard garden kept beautiful all year round by fantastic volunteer gardeners. The Museum café offers fresh lunches daily, including sandwiches, soups, salads, and cakes, plus speciality coffees and teas. 111-117 Museum of Brands, W11 1QT. 020 7243 9611 www.museumofbrands.com/
Queen’s Park Farmers’ Market
Discover London’s largest farmers market, located in a schoolyard, overflowing with an array of farm and food stalls, and bustling with atmosphere. You name it, we have it; from fresh South Coast fish and shellfish to hot sausage rolls and baked treats. Hand-pick your favourite seasonal vegetables and keep an eye out for biodynamic eggs and raw juice. There’s free-range poultry, organic and rear-
breed meat. Enjoy a vast selection of dairy and cheese as well as seasonal plants and flowers. Look out for lots of seasonal specials and guest stalls; from asparagus and cherries to pickles, farmed trout and birch sap.
Queen’s Wood is an ancient woodland and dates from at least 1600, possibly from prehistoric times. It became a local nature reserve in 1990. It’s one of 4 ancient woodlands in Haringey. These woods are thought to be the direct descendants of the original ‘wildwood’. The wildwood covered most of Britain about 5 5,000 years ago. The bird life is diverse and includes all 3 species of woodpecker. Over 100 species of spider have been spotted. A nationally rare jewel beetle is also widespread.
Queen’s Wood Rd, London N6 6UU. www.new.haringey.gov.uk/leisure-parksculture/parks-greenspaces naturereserve
Interview with ‘Style and Stage’
How did you start your Home Staging Business?
After moving to London six years ago, I quickly realised there was a gap in the interior market for staging services. Combining my decades of knowledge providing interior design services around the world- in Hong Kong, France and Sweden to name a few- and my experience with the benefits of staging properties, my daughter Hanna and I started Style and Stage in 2018.
Why do you recommend people selling their property to use Home Staging?
Residential Property or Home Staging is the art of dressing a property for sale or let. This shows the property in its best light and therefore maximises return on investment in the quickest timeframe possible. We’re helping potential buyers/renters to see themselves in that home, and we believe the statistics speak for themselves.
86% of Estate Agents agree that staging a property helps to sell up to three times faster. You simply get more traffic online, more viewings and more offers.
100% off Estate Agents say it helps the buyer to visualise the property as their future home. A surprising 94% of people cannot visualise furniture in an empty space, which is where we can help.
Is there difference between a lived-in property and an empty one?
Yes, generally speaking empty properties are staged solely with our furniture, accessories and
artwork, however lived-in properties provide a different challenge. Using my 30 years of experience, I will give lived-in properties a new lease of life by decluttering and re-styling pieces that are already there, a small change can have a huge impact.
What have been your major influences and inspirations?
I have been fortunate enough to live, work and travel throughout Asia and Europe, which has undoubtedly influenced my work; I take huge inspiration from these experiences. My Swedish background means that Scandi and Japandi interiors are where I feel my personal style most aligns, however we are able to offer a range of styles to our clients, dependent on what the property calls for.
In developing a style for a client’s property who takes the lead or is it a collaborative effort?
In terms of home staging, we take full creative control of the project. We look at the big picture, considering the location of the property, the demographic for the area and who the property is most likely to attract and use this information to stage the space accordingly. When undertaking an interior design project, it is always a collaborative effort. We pride ourselves on combining our expertise with the clients personal taste to create the perfect space for them.
Is there a project you are most proud of?
A wonderful perk of working in this industry is that each project has its own rewards, so I wouldn’t say there is a particular project that we are most proud of. We take great pride in all of our work, and always leave feeling satisfied that we have done an excellent job. However, we also understand the importance of numbers within this industry, and after staging a property in Notting Hill which sold for 100k over the asking price, I was immensely proud.
How would you like people to get in touch with you?
We are always eager to welcome new clients, so if you are interested in our range of services we would love to hear from you. You can call us, or send us an email and we’d be very happy to help!
Local Schools
Where our children spend most of their week and how they are being educated is a decision which should take some serious consideration. We have put together this list of suggestions to make your life a little bit easier. Many local schools and nurseries offer free tours so please go and visit your choice options before making that final important decision.
Salusbury Primary School
We are a caring, happy, welcoming, and vibrant primary school in Queen’s Park with over 700 children and staff, who between them speak 42 languages and have a wide range of skills and talents. We are very much a community school at the heart of Queen’s Park. Salusbury Primary is committed to ensuring that every pupil leaves our school with high aspirations, an enduring enthusiasm for learning and the confidence to address the world on their own terms. Inclusion is at the heart of our school, every child has the right to be successful, confident, and wellprepared for the world.
Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6RG. 020 7624 0311
www.salusbury.brent.sch.uk/
Princess Frederica C of E Primary School
Princess Frederica exists to: Nurture social, emotional, spiritual, and educational growth in all our children. Impart the gifts of selfconfidence, determination, and curiosity with a rich and creative curriculum. Create a positive impact on our local and global community and environment. And nurture friendship, kindness, and respect. We also run a nursery with an intake of 30 children. College Rd, London NW10 5TP. 020 8969 7756
www.princessfrederica.brent.sch.uk/
Bales College
At Bales, we value the individual’s potential and put all our efforts into helping each child grow personally and academically. Our teachers are committed to fully supporting each child on their learning journey, in an environment conducive to learning. At the same time, students are encouraged to develop their independent working patterns. The Bales student is hard-working, aspirational, organised, and independent. Our co-curricular programme throughout the school supports and extends students’ learning in the classroom. We undertake regular local trips and visits to venues in and around London, welcome visiting speakers whose expertise covers a range of interests and arrange annual residential trips to European destinations. Your son or daughter will experience an education at Bales that will enable them to thrive in our ever-changing world.
2j Kilburn Ln, London W10 4AA. 020 8960 5899
www.balescollege.co.uk/
College Green Nursery School
Our vision is to inspire a life-long love for learning and empower children to be compassionate, resilient, and distinctively remarkable. Our core belief at College Green School & Services is that all our children should feel safe, happy, valued, celebrated, challenged, and have fun whilst learning at the school.
161 College Rd, London NW10 3PH. 020 8969 2179
www.cgss.brent.sch.uk/
ARK Franklin Primary Academy
We are a primary school and nursery offering a great education for local children in Kensal Rise, Northwest London. We are a 3-form entry school committed to serving our diverse population here in Kensal Rise. Ark Franklin is proudly part of the Ark network of schools and prides itself on having the highest possible expectations for every single child. Harvist Rd, London NW6 6HJ. 020 8969 3846
www.arkfranklinprimary.org/
Kenmont Primary School
We are a small friendly school which has been judged to be good by Ofsted (January 2023). Our school is popular with local families, who value the benefits that a small school offers including a close community, committed staff and an ethos that values each child. We offer a happy and friendly atmosphere and are dedicated to providing an inspiring and engaging curriculum so that children grow to their full potential and become responsible, caring members of the community.
Valliere Rd, London NW10 6AL. 020 8969 4497
www.kenmont.lbhf.sch.uk/
Manor School
Manor School is a large special school located in the London Borough of Brent and is part of The Rise Partnership Trust. We have almost 220 incredible pupils on roll, from Reception to Key Stage 3. Our main school site is based on Chamberlayne Road in Kensal Rise and the Manor School Early Years Centre (MSEYC) is situated on Bridge Road which is approximately 2.5 miles away. Our school motto is “Love, Learn, Laugh” and this permeates everything that we do.
Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3NT. 020 8968 3160
www.manor.brent.sch.uk/
Maple Walk School
Independent co-educational primary school for boys and girls aged 4 to 11. Excellent private school education. Preparing children for a range of selective and non-selective secondary schools. We are a forward-thinking prep school in North West London, close to Roundwood Park. We are a school with great heart, children are at the centre of everything we do, and every pupil is embraced as part of our shared community.
62 Crownhill Rd, London NW10 4EB. 020 8963 3890
www.maplewalkschool.co.uk/
Interview with ‘WL Floorings’
Tell us a little about the background of your firm?
I have been in the floorings industry since 2003, after 4 years of laying floorings I decided to take the big step and open up my own floorings store in 2007. It was quite challenging navigating the 2008 financial crisis as a new business however 15 years later WL Floorings is still here supplying and installing high quality floorings across the whole of London. We have 20 years of experience in the floorings industry. Over the years we have had numerous projects from rental properties and office spaces to schools, churches and mosques.
What type of floorings do you provide?
We lay a wide variety of floorings such as carpet, vinyl, laminate, engineered wood, luxury vinyl tiles and Polysafe safety flooring.
We have floorings of varying qualities to cater your needs and budget. Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) is an increasingly popular choice of flooring that combines the durability of laminate flooring with the versatility of vinyl flooring. The most important thing is that it looks amazing once laid on any floor!
What type of flooring is the most popular?
Our most popular flooring choice is carpet. Carpets come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures, allowing you to choose a style that complements your home’s interior design. It adds warmth and aesthetic appeal to any room, making it feel cosier and more inviting. Carpets act as excellent insulators, helping to retain heat during colder months and providing a barrier against cold air from the floor. This can contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the need for heating and lowering energy costs. Carpets can provide a safer environment, especially for young children or the elderly. The cushioning effect of carpet helps to prevent slips and falls, and it can also soften the impact in case of accidents.
Why should people choose WL Floorings?
We are a family business and always strive to cater to our customers’ needs. WL Floorings aims to provide excellent customer service. We are happy to assist customers with their questions, offer guidance, and provide recommendations. Whether you need help finding a specific product or require advice for your project we are here to assist you. We have 20 years of flooring expertise and skills so we are confident that we can give you the dream installation. We stock products from reputable brands, ensuring that you have access to quality and reliable items. At WL Floorings we have a strong focus on durability and performance, providing customers with products that are built to last.
Fitness & Health
Leading a hectic life? Need somewhere to tone your body, recharge your muscles or simply stretch? We have put together the best locations for you to do just that. Whether you fancy going for a swim or need regular fitness classes, we know that our recommended providers will do their best to keep you in shape.
Absolute Studios Kensal Rise
Absolute dynamic reformer classes are a brilliant fusion of the best aspects of Pilates, strength and conditioning and circuit training disciplines. We combine the key Pilates principles of precise movement, control, and core muscle activation, amongst others, with functional strength-promoting exercises. This ensures that not only do you get leaner, stronger, and more balanced, but you also apply your newfound strength and flexibility to movements that you need to perform every day. Once you begin your training with us, you’ll look and move better.
77A College Rd, London NW10 5ES. 020 3976 5110
www.absolute-studios.co.uk/
NXT PHASE
Queen’s Park Gym and Fitness Studio NXT PHASE Fitness is more than just a gym, we are a community passionate about fitness and health. Our Philosophy stems from making sure all exercises are practised with proper form, we call this functional fitness. This helps to reduce injury, maximise time in the gym and improve your health most efficiently. Our gym is fully kitted out with all the essential gym equipment to maximise your workout, from our two squat racks to a large collection of free weights to our 10-metre sled track.
1-3, Canterbury House, Canterbury Rd, North Maida Vale, London NW6 5FR. 020 3793 0879
Built as part of a £28M investment and opened in June 2018, the brand-new Moberly Sports Centre is the ideal fitness and leisure destination for you and your family. Packed with a whole host of modern facilities, including two pools, a 130-station gym and two Group Exercise studios. Additionally, there’s a large eight-court sports hall where you can enjoy a variety of activities, a spa, a dedicated boxing gym and a bespoke gymnastics area, alongside a range of other facilities.
25 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3NB. 020 3879 6669
Welcome to DropGym, your personal, private gym. Our clean sophisticated spaces give you a safe and intimate environment to prioritise and improve your health. With limited numbers per session, DropGym workouts are personal, effective, and exclusive. With no queuing for machines and with zero overcrowding, you can maximise each session for a quality workout experience. 68b Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NU. 020 4574 9755
www.dropgym.io/
The Maqam Centre
Set in a large converted historic building, the Maqam in Queen’s Park is an inspiring place for families. Relax in our design-led spaces complete with a café, conservatory, play & book corner & all-day family dining. Learn to or come for a swim in our luxury pool –swimming classes for all ages, aqua exercise, family swims and adult lane swimming too. Our studio and café host a timetable of creative classes for children, memorable birthday parties and holiday clubs. In addition to our family-friendly facilities, we host a calendar of events and workshops for little ones and their accompanying grown-ups. We can’t wait to welcome you – get in touch for a tour!
Wrentham Ave, London NW10 3HJ. 020 7625 0375
www.themaqamcentre.com/
Fierce Grace Hot Yoga – West
Experience yoga unlike anywhere else at Fierce Grace West. Located on Kilburn Lane, our West London studio boasts a beautiful nonslip, wood effect yoga studio. The garden courtyard is a welcome surprise during the bustling boutiques and cafes of Queen’s Park Village. Our revolutionary interconnected classes, based on two decades of research and the observation of a quarter of a million bodies, are designed to bring you the ultimate blend of strength and flexibility for both body and mind. Practised in temperatures of between 35-38°C to support safety, detoxification, catharsis and reduce post-workout stiffness, expect transformative results whatever your age, ability, or body type. Live Life with Fierce Grace.
260 Kilburn Ln, London W10 4BA. 020 8960 9644
www.fiercegrace.com/studios/west
New York Pilates
We were the first studio teaching authentic, Classical Pilates in London. We’re known as the Centre of Excellence for Authentic Classical Pilates. The longest-running Classical Pilates studio in London with a full range of classes for different abilities. Online classes run 7 days a week.
Unit 2, The Linen House, 253 Kilburn Ln, London W10 4BQ. 07718 785870
www.nypilates.co.uk/
Local Restaurants
Behesht Restaurant
Behesht Restaurant is London’s favourite Iranian Restaurant And Takeaway. Here at Behesht Restaurant, we offer a huge variety of starters, such as mast-o-khiar, bourani, salad shirazi, kashke bademjan and mirza ghasemi. We also offer a wide range of main courses such as chello kebab change and zereshk polo ba morgh. We look forward to serving welcoming and serving you. 1082-1086, Harrow Rd, London NW10 5NL. 020 8964 4477
www.behesht.co.uk/kensalgreen/
Frigideira
Frigideira & Camburi restaurant aims to serve the best Brazilian dishes with a special service and a touch of seasonings and ingredients that you will love. We brought from our great experience of Brazilian Cuisine, special recipes that will make you feel in Brazil when trying it.
37 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3NB. 020 8962 8800
www.frigideira.co.uk/
Sacro Cuore Pizza
Sacro Cuore is a traditional Neapolitan Pizzeria in Kensal Rise. We opened in summer 2012 and the pizza we make is identical to what you would eat in Naples, the birthplace of pizza. We use the same ingredients, the same cooking method and the same oven. For us, it is all about the pizza! 45 Chamberlayne Rd, London NW10 3NB. 020 8960 8558
www.sacrocuore.co.uk/
Eat Sushi
Here at Eat Sushi Kensal Rise, we are constantly striving to improve our service and quality to give our customers the very best experience. As a result, we are finally proud to unveil and introduce our latest improvement, our new online ordering website! You can now relax at home and order your favourite, freshly prepared meals from Eat Sushi Kensal Rise. You can even pay online!
Chengs House, 16 Station Terrace, London NW10 5RX. 020 8969 4386
www.eat-sushi.co.uk/
The Cedar Restaurant
Our Award-Winning Eatery offers a Wide Range of Delicious And Authentic Lebanese Cuisine For Eat-In and delivery. Traditional homemade dishes prepared with love and using only the finest ingredients for you. 58 College Rd, London NW10 5ES. 020 3417 8383
www.thecedarrestaurant.co.uk/
Cocotte Queen’s Park
Tucked away in the picturesque enclave of Queen’s Park, Cocotte is a culinary gem that marries the charm of the local community with the sophistication of modern dining. Our dedication to healthy rotisserie ensures that every plate is a harmonious blend of healthconscious choices without compromising on flavour. Our diverse menu, rich in both tradition and innovation, showcases our love for the culinary arts. The bottomless brunch, a favourite among our patrons, is a testament to our ability to curate experiences that resonate with the tastes
of today’s discerning diner. Cocotte Queen’s Park is more than just a restaurant; it’s a space where the community gathers, where laughter fills the air, and where memories are made over shared meals.
79 Salusbury Rd, London NW6 6NH. 020 7647 7719
www.mycocotte.uk/queens-park/
Carmel
Carmel is a relaxed all-day restaurant and bar in the heart of Queen’s Park, which takes inspiration from the cuisines across the Eastern Mediterranean, creating an accessible, refined menu. Carmel’s wine list is a central part of the restaurant’s offering showcasing wines from some of the most exciting low-intervention producers. From the team behind Berber & Q. 23-25 Lonsdale Rd, London NW6 6RD. 020 3848 2090
www.carmelrestaurant.co.uk/
Ida
Ida opened in 2007 in a pretty Grade II listed corner shop in Queens Park. Family-run, by husband-and-wife team, Avi and Simonetta together with their three children, the dream was to recreate the kind of simple, homecooked Italian food you might eat at the house of your favourite aunt. Ida’s speciality is fresh pasta and gnocchi, made in-house, as well as regional vegetarian, vegan and fish dishes. At Ida, everything is made fresh every day. 167 Fifth Ave, London W10 4DT. 020 8969 9853
www.idarestaurant.co.uk/
‘Virtually’ all you need
Some suggested local social media groups to help you connect, learn, buy, sell and have fun.
Kensal Rise Community www.facebook.com/groups/2214444346/
Kensal Rise Residents Association www.facebook.com/groups/collegeroadresidents/?locale=en_GB
Kensal Rise and Queens Park Community www.facebook.com/KensalQueensParkWillesden/
Queen’s Park Area Residents’ Association www.facebook.com/queensparkresidents/?locale=en_GB
Queen’s Park Mums (London, NW6) www.facebook.com/groups/1655732904696487/
Queen’s Park Farmers’ Market London www.facebook.com/QueensParkFarmersMarket/?locale=en_GB
Kensal Rise RA www.twitter.com/KensalRiseRA
Kensal and Queens Park www.twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fkensalqueenspk
Queen’s Park Folk www.twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FQueensParkFolk
Help and support from your local Council
You should inform your Local Authority of where you are moving from and where you are moving to around a month before you move. You can do this here. https://system8.rbwm.gov.uk/ publicaccesslive/selfservice/services/ changeofaddress/coastart.htm
You’ll need to include the forwarding addresses for every adult in the property that pays council tax.
Search for information and services from your council. Information for residents about Brent Council including council tax, bins and recycling, schools, leisure, streets and parking, this and lot’s more at the below link. www.brent.gov.uk
Planning & Building Control
Unsure which services you need?
If you are thinking of making changes to your property, you may need to apply for planning permission and / or Building Regulations approval. If you’re not sure which applications to make, please use the guidance below to help you to decide what you need to do.
Please note that many developments will require both.
What is planning?
Planning is the process of deciding whether a proposed development should go ahead or not. It uses national and local policies to consider the development in its context and may look at the impact of the work on neighbours and the wider community, existing architecture, the land, the layout, and existing or proposed infrastructure (such as drains, transport and schools).
You will probably need planning permission if your proposed development will do any of the following:
• create a new building, or change the use or appearance of an existing building
• affect the sunlight, privacy or outlook for neighbouring properties
• affect the nearby area with noise disturbance, smell or fumes
• work on or around listed buildings or any conservation areas
• affect traffic volumes, road safety or access
• change the density of development in an area
• use significantly different materials or finishes from nearby properties
• have an effect on existing trees
What is building control?
Building control applies national statutory regulations to ensure the structural quality of any building work, in areas such as safety, public health, accessibility, and the materials used. Most substantial building projects (such as an extension, knocking down walls or converting a garage or loft) will need Building Regulations approval.
