The Steeple Times

Tag: John

  • Mackintosh Icebergs

    Mackintosh Icebergs

    Iceberg home formed in part from the former Chelsea studios of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012

    The grand location used as Uncle Monty’s London home in Withnail & I – the 1987 classic dark comedy starring Richard E. Grant – was West House at 35 Glebe Place in Chelsea. That building was sold to François Pinault, the owner of amongst other things Christie’s, Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, for £20 million in 2011, whilst last month we featured an equally fabled residence in a street once home to artists, but now the preserve of billionaires – the £6.95 million former residence of the now in exile oligarch Sergei Pugachev at 53 and 54 Glebe Place.

    Yesterday, the Daily Mail reported that Pugachev’s publicity craving ex-partner and mother of three of his children, ‘Karen-esque’ Countess Alexandra Tolstoy, had finally been evicted from that property. “It’s not our choice to leave, it’s painful and oh so sad” blubbed this batshit bonkers woman on Instagram, but now there’s another house for sale in the street that will make headlines and this time because of its connections to an esteemed art nouveau architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868 – 1928).

    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    Glasgow born Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his Black Country born wife Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh (top) and a replacement plaque commemorating their association with the building that is located on the garage door at 43 Glebe Place. A plaque was first erected to mark the centenary of the Glasgow School of Art in 2009, but was “removed at some point between 2009 and 2015.”

    Bizarrely sold in November 2012 for a sum £55,000 lower than in February that year, 43 Glebe Place has just come to the market for £14.95 million through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – a sum 1,178% higher than eight years ago.

     

    Now vastly larger due to the fact that it has been ‘iceberged’ with the addition of an entirely new ‘mega-basement’ level (of similar concept to that created under the five houses opposite during their controversial merger by Monsoon and Accessorize owner Peter Simon in 2015), 43 Glebe Place is formed from the merger of a simple cottage and two artists’ studios. It now extends to 3,871 square foot in total over three levels.

     

    One section of the property formed from the artists’ studios – known at that time as 43a Hans Studio – was used by Mackintosh from August 1915 to circa 1923 whilst his wife, Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh (1864 – 1933), occupied the adjoining space.

     

    The studios were entered through “a small high walled courtyard” which now forms the garden of the newly created house and during this period, the couple lived nearby in Oakley Street, SW3 also. They had been forced to move to London after being banned from Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, where they had previously lived, as Mackintosh had been suspected of being a German spy due to his “affinity with Austria.”

     

    Of their time there, writing in 2016, Mackintosh expert Sheila Harris remarked:

     

    “As with most studios the ceilings were high, in order, most probably, to capture as much as light as possible and although they were fairly austere, with the furniture, artefacts and decorative panels originally housed in their Glasgow home, the place would soon have become an extension of their artistic lives.”

     

    “Let’s not forget that whilst Mackintosh was working quietly in his studio another, completely different, scenario was unfolding outside his studio door.  A resident of Glebe Place wrote: ‘Never shall I forget how suddenly Chelsea seemed to become an armed camp… Army motor lorries were rattling noisily along the normally quiet Embankment, and those hot nights we lay awake listening to the heavy rumble of laden troop-trains, all night long… It was a heart-rending sight to see the young men of all ranks going up the steps of Chelsea Town Hall to enlist.’”

     

    “Clearly Mackintosh and Margaret embraced life in Chelsea and made the very best of their new-found circumstances.  They adopted their new surroundings, making their studios an inviting, hospitable place to spend their days, often in the company of like-minded people.  They certainly faced up to the challenges of living in the capital city which was the target of so many bombing raids.”

     

    “Whilst little evidence can be found on the daily routine of the Mackintoshes’ life in London, we know that they… spent their days in the adjoining studios in Glebe Place, and many evenings were enjoyed at the Blue Cockatoo [a long since gone local hostelry in Oakley Street that was popular also with Augustus John and other “artistic Chelsea denizens”] meeting friends and colleagues for dinner… We do know that Margaret held parties, including children’s parties, at the studios.”

     

    Given what the estate agent Turnbull terms a “three year, multi-million pound rebuild by the current owners, creating an exquisite and self-indulgent London home for themselves,” it is doubtful that the Mackintoshes would now recognise their former home. It now provides a 21-foot by 16-foot reception room with a ceiling heght of 14-feet and a study area with a mezzanine beyond, a 30-foot long dining kitchen, 3 bedroom suites, a wine cellar and a gym with a steam room. There is a somewhat narrow garage, off-street parking for an additional car, a 24-foot by 23-foot garden and a 22-foot long roof terrace also.

     

    In their marketing literature, The London Broker interestingly point out also of the freehold house: “This property currently has mixed use. The buyer should speak to their solicitor and seek advice to confirm that this could significantly reduce SDLT.” Who said the rich don’t like a bargain?

     

    The Numbers – 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom

     

    July 2020 – For sale for £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) through agents The London Broker.

     

    November 2012 – Sold for £1.17 million ($1.48 million, €1.30 million or درهم5.43 million)

     

    February 2012 – Sold for £1.225 million ($1.548 million, €1.366 million or درهم5.687 million).

     

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    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    A large entrance hall is formed out of the majority of the ground floor of the original, surprisingly unlisted cottage.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    Out of one of the studio spaces, a vast dining kitchen with doors to the courtyard garden has been created. It is bright and airy as a result of its ceiling lights.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    Beyond is a reception space, again with studio windows above.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    Another view of the room.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    A dividing glass partition leads to a space intended as a study. It has a mezzanine above.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    The master bedroom suite is to be found in the original cottage. It has its own terrace.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    The bathroom of the master bedroom also has a door onto the terrace.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    In the newly recreated ‘iceberg mega-basement’ daylight is brought in courtesy of a lightwell. A most useful wine cellar can be seen at the end of this corridor.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    The other two bedroom suites are located on the lower level.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    Also below ground is a large gym. It seems an ideal space for health conscious super-rich yummy mummy types to work out their frustrations in.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    The courtyard garden (looking towards the original house and garage) is quite charming and restful.
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    The courtyard garden (looking towards the studio conversion section).
    Mackintosh Icebergs – £14.95 million ($18.90 million, €16.67 million or درهم69.40 million) for 43 Glebe Place, Chelsea, London, SW3 5JE, United Kingdom through agent Johnny Turnbull of The London Broker – ‘Iceberg home’ formed in part from the former Glebe Place, Chelsea, SW3 studios of Rennie Mackintosh and his wife for sale for sum 1,178% higher than in 2012.
    A floor plan of the very much enlarged property.
    A BBC video briefly mentioning Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s time at 43 Glebe Place. Video courtesy of The 78 Derngate Northampton Trust.
    Flamboyant Uncle Monty plied Withnail and Marwood with booze in his drawing room at 35 Glebe Place in the film. His intentions were less than decent. In 2011, the house was sold for £20 million to the billionaire businessman François Pinault – reportedly the 27th richest man in the world as of October 2019.
  • A Blank Canvas

    A Blank Canvas

    Chelsea “studio with living rooms” built for Augustus John and later owned by Dame Grace Fields DBE available to rent

     

    Though the Pembrokeshire born artist, bohemian and pacifist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) was best known for his portraits of Lawrence of Arabia and Dylan Thomas, he is also said to have fathered as many as 100 children over the course of his life. A Grade II listed “Dutch farmhouse-style” studio he built and occupied for twenty years in Chelsea, London is currently available to rent.

     

    A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)
    This vast studio room is the most impressive feature of 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6U

     

    Built in 1913 to 1914 from designs by a Dutch architect named Robert van ’t Hoff and Grade II listed, 28 Mallord Street cost an estimated £2,200 to build (the equivalent of £233,000, $291,000, €272,000 or درهم1.1 million today). It includes features influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright and was described by Augustus John as “my new studio with living rooms” on completion. He lived there until 1934 and though initially delighted by the building’s “solidity and tautness”, ultimately termed it “this damned Dutch shanty” and moved to a new, purpose-built ferro-concrete at Fryern Court in Fordingbridge, Hampshire.

     

    Owned by the thrice married actress and singer Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979) – who described it as “feeling like home” and “a love nest” – in the 1930s and sold for £5.4 million in 2009 (the equivalent of £6.6 million, $8.2 million, €7.7 million or درهم30.2 million today). 28 Mallord Street is now available to rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) or £494,000 per year ($616,000, €576,000 or درهم2.3 million per year) through Aylesford International.

     

    A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)
    Augustus John OM, RA was celebrated for brilliant figure drawings, and for a new technique of oil sketching; his work was often favourably compared with Gauguin and Matisse

    A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)
    A Blue Plaque commemorating the artist was installed on the building in 1981

    A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)
    28 Mallord Street in 1981

    A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)
    Actress and singer Dame Gracie Fields OBE took up occupancy of the building soon after Augustus John sold it

     

    Expanded to provide 5,109 square foot of accommodation over five levels, the house is dominated by a 38’3” by 25’2” studio reception room with a ceiling height of 18’4” and also includes upto 6 bedrooms, 2 kitchens and a temperature controlled wine cellar with Hermès wallpaper.

     

    Aylesford describe 28 Mallord Street as “a true family home, the ultimate blank canvas and ideal for any art collector”. They offer it on an unfurnished basis.

     

    A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)A Blank Canvas – 28 Mallord Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6DU – To rent for £9,500 per week ($11,800, €11,100 or درهم43,500 per week) through Aylesford – Built for artist Augustus John (1878 – 1961) and later home to Dame Gracie Fields OBE (1898 – 1979)

  • Jet set John

    Jet set John

    Tagged billionaire John Goodman allowed to fly to Texas to visit his mother

     

    The case of John Goodman is what the media would term “a gift that keeps on giving”. The “polo king” billionaire, whose reckless driving resulted in a student’s death in 2010, is in the news again this week and this time it’s for getting permission to fly by private jet to visit his ailing mother who is dying of cancer. (more…)

  • John Armstrong

    John Armstrong

    CVB0081O_02.tifThis poet and artist was born in Consett, County Durham and began writing aged just 13 during his time studying at a monastery in Shropshire. Famed for his amazing head of a hair and a regular at the Chelsea Arts Club, amongst Armstrong’s most poignant verses is one from his poem Who Am I in which he states: “I am the thin red line that will not yield, I am that far off corner of a foreign field, I am an Englishman!”

  • A twister of a trial

    A twister of a trial

    The latest bizarre turn in the John Goodman case

     

    Rather like the twisters that often hit the coast of Florida, the story of the case of the polo mogul and multimillionaire Goodman stereo manufacturing heir John Goodman has again taken another turn.

     

    On Friday, it was revealed that a juror in the case that had resulted in Goodman’s conviction had lied about his ex-wife’s own DUI during jury selection. As a result, a retrial has now been granted.

      (more…)

  • Nicholas Gruber: “What’s on your mantelpiece?”

    Nicholas Gruber: “What’s on your mantelpiece?”

    The Steeple Times asks model and personality Nicholas Gruber: “What’s on your mantelpiece?”

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom.” What’s your guiding force?

    I try to learn something from everyone I meet.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    Life is short so enjoy a part of every day, even the shitty ones.

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2012?

    Picking on anyone less fortunate than you. That’s why the Republicans lost the election in the US.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    My grandmother, Judy Bolduc. She was the first lesbian in California to adopt a child, my dad.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    Honey, pick up a paper: I did that already for some freedom.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank.” What’s your view on the banking crisis?

    Greed is never good in any way, shape or form.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    “Thank you so much.” It seems insincere whereas just “thank you” seems genuine.

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home.” What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    Toys for Tots because I know first hand what it feels like to be a kid with nothing under the tree.

     

    The judge in “Law Abiding Citizen” states: “I can pretty do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    It is only appropriate to blow up terrorists.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    My new boyfriend, John Luciano, and my former one, Calvin Klein. Now, that would be one hell of a ride.

     

    Nicholas Gruber

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    Pasta from Bar Pitti.  Two helpings. Plus a slice of German chocolate cake.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    I’m sober so for me that would be noon. Joking. I don’t drink but I also don’t judge.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    None of the above. I will take a coconut water please.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    Calvin Klein.  He might be three times my age but he can party like a rock star.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    A tie between Calvin and John. They both believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    Having a mob related boyfriend who allows me to have girlfriends.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    A glass that was half full because that’s how I roll.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    A smiley face.

     

    Cilla Black presented “Surprise, Surprise.” Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    I’m straight but bang guys.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    Nothing. It’s all about no clutter.

     

     

    Follow Nicholas Gruber on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/NicholasGruber

  • Tom Ford

    Tom Ford

    This Texan born designer and film director turned around the fortunes of Gucci and YSL and had a huge success with A Single Man. A fixture at New York’s Studio 54, his designs are hugely influenced by the club’s disco-era glamour and his love of all things black and square. Ford met his journalist partner, Richard Buckley, at a fashion show in 1986. They share a love for smooth fox terriers and announced the birth of their son, Alexander Buckley Ford, in September 2012. Of being “gay,” he comments: “I hate that word” but declares that he’ll marry when same-sex marriage is legalised in California. Of Ford, his partner, Buckley, adds: “There’s only one Tom for me.”

  • Post-Fordism

    Post-Fordism

    The flexible £12.75 million former home of Tom Ford

     

    Number 26 Gilston Road in London’s SW10 is a property that has been on and off the market repeatedly in recent years. On each and every occasion it has been promoted as the “former home of the fashion icon Tom Ford” and though he hasn’t lived there in years, it is still just as he left it.

     

    Designer and film producer Tom Ford

    “The former home of design icon Tom Ford”: 26 Gilston Road, London, SW10 9SS

    Situated at the end of a terrace on the corner of Priory Walk, one can see why the house appealed to the Texan born designer credited with turning around the fortunes of Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent. Hidden behind a high wall and hedging, 26 Gilston Road is private yet minutes from the restaurants of Old Brompton and Fulham Roads.

     

    This 4-storey townhouse was sold in June 1997 for £2,250,000 and again marketed in 2009 for £8,500,000 through Aylesford. In the time since, it has been available to let at prices ranging from £5,500 to £7,500 per week, but is now back for sale at the extraordinary figure of £12,750,00 through Russell Simpson.

     

    One of the reception rooms, just as Tom Ford left it

    Another of the Tom Ford styled rooms

    A Tom Ford designed bedroom

    The garden of the property is extremely private

    What explains such a rise during a period of economic downturn? Well, it’s because developers Equilibrium have gained permission to “de-Ford” the house. As is now the trend in London, they have planned a total redesign. Their illustrations incorporate a new sub-basement and as a result the gross internal area will increase from just over 3,700 square feet to just under 5,300 square feet.

     

    Equilibrium’s plans include a vast living-dining-kitchen with a study in the void over. The space is lit by a skylight.

    A cutaway shows the extent of the redevelopment planned

    A view of 26 Gilston Road from the corner of Priory Walk

    Whilst the layout Tom Ford, himself a graduate in architecture from Parsons The New School of Design, created at 26 Gilston Road was ideal for A Single Man; the new floor plan with 4 bedrooms is much better suited to a family. Ford and his partner, Richard Buckley, announced the birth of their son, Alexander, in September. Perhaps they should put in a bid.

     

    For more information about 26 Gilston Road, London, SW10 9SS, contact Russell Simpson, 5 Anderson Street, London, SW3 3LU. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7225 0277. View a brochure for the property at: http://www.russellsimpson.co.uk/assets/12/06/15/5081/pdf_archive-1.pdf

     

    View Equilibrium’s website at: http://www.equilibriumlondon.com

     

    View Tom Ford’s website at: http://www.tomford.com

  • Goodness, gracious, gaol

    Goodness, gracious, gaol

    Matthew Steeples updates readers on John Goodman’s return to jail

     

    The conviction of John Goodman in West Palm Beach earlier this year was a tragedy for all concerned but the twists and turns that have followed have been quite something else.

     

    John Goodman in court prior to returning to jail on Friday 12th October 2012

    Goodman, who sold his family business, Goodman Manufacturing, for $1.43 billion in 2004 and who also founded the International Polo Club Palm Beach, was found guilty of the offences of DUI Manslaughter and vehicular homicide on 23rd March.

     

    In February 2010, Goodman had crashed his Bentley Continental GTC at speed into a Hyundai Sonata and in the process catapulted it into a canal. Whilst the driver, Scott Wilson, was left to drown, Goodman fled the scene of the accident and later claimed he did not know he’d hit another driver. On the night in question, Goodman had settled a $272 bar bill for himself and friends at The Players Club in Wellington, Florida at 12:52am and had later drunk more alcohol after the accident in a “man cave” to “alleviate [his] pain.”

     

    Scott Wilson’s Hyundai after it was retrieved from the canal into which John Goodman’s Bentley catapulted it

    In May 2012, Goodman was sentenced to 16 years in jail but shortly afterwards was released on a $7 million bond pending appeal. At exactly the same time, a juror in the case, Dennis DeMartin, self-published a “tell-all” book, Believing in the Truth, in which he revealed that he conducted drinking experiments to see if he could get drunk after three vodka and tonics. After DeMartin was called in for questioning by Palm Beach County Circuit Judge Jeffrey Colbath, he stated:

     

    “I’m only human. I made a mistake, just like John Goodman made a mistake… What can I say? I’m getting senile.”

     

    John Goodman has spent most of the year under house arrest at his hacienda at 3665 120th Avenue, Wellington with his girlfriend, whom he also adopted as his daughter to protect his wealth, Heather Laurso Hutchins (also known as Heather Colby). In a further twist, Goodman was caught at the property by two of the $2,000 a day off-duty deputies employed to monitor him at 11pm on Wednesday in an upstairs bathroom with a small mirror. He was allegedly using it to pry open his ankle monitor and disable it with water.

     

    Though Goodman claimed he had hit the monitor on a shower door accidentally, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of West Palm Beach County commented:

     

    “I think he thought, you know, in my estimation he thought that was going to disable it. [It] doesn’t work like that… He paid the price for it because he’s back in the ‘Gun Club Hotel’ [Palm Beach County Jail]. That’s where he’s going to stay.”

     

    “Think about what’s going on in America right now. You know you’ve got celebrities and people with a lot of money, they get arrested, they break the law. And, after a while they just think the rules don’t apply to them.”

     

    “Well, guess what? That don’t happen here. He gets treated just like every other person that’s in my custody. He violates the rules, he’s back in jail.”

     

    As a result, John Goodman will now temporarily remain in jail until the 26th November.

     

    We await the next twist in this case with anticipation.

     

    Read our original report on the case against John Goodman and his subsequent conviction at: http://thesteepletimes.com/the-fog/no-thank-goodnesses-for-goodman/

  • John B. Goodman

    John B. Goodman

    John B. Goodman sold his family business, Goodman Manufacturing, for $1.43 billion in 2004 and founded the International Polo Club Palm Beach. This socialite and protégé of the $7 billion Ponzi-schemer Sir Allan Stanford, claimed: “I don’t know what happened” when put on trial for smashing his Bentley into a Hyundai driven by Scott Wilson in 2010. Bizarrely, he attempted to adopt his girlfriend as his daughter to save his fortune and after spending years under house, John Goodman was finally jailed for 16 years for killing Wilson in December 2014. Here is a case of an individual some called a “generous and decent man” who truly screwed up.