The City Magazine April 2012 by Runwild Media Group

0822080 Best of British A3 DPS_V2.indd 2

Who said you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mix business with pleasure? British Airways now takes you direct to 22 destinations from London City. New for 2012 include Venice, Angers, Quimper and Menorca, plus more flights to Frankfurt and Glasgow. To Fly. To Serve. Book at ba.com/londoncity

Check website for details of frequency increase. Services operated by BA CityFlyer.

20/03/2012 14:17

collection men’s luxury

contents

3 6

feature 10

The

Our Leading Lady

Brit

Brigade

To commemorate 60 years on the throne,

Defined by sophistication and timelessness, it’s no wonder that the demand for British brands, like London-founded Rolex, has defied the recession

Richard Brown considers Her Majesty The

Queen’s six decade performance 1 Bank lid-over attaché case, £2,166, Ettinger, available in Harrods and Harvey Nichols 2 Croco travel pass holder, £84, Ettinger, as before 3 Mississippi croc golf ball tube, £75, Daines and Hathaway, www.dainesandhathaway.com 4 Classic braces, £45, Budd Shirt Makers, 3 Piccadilly Arcade 5 Mississippi croc golf accessory wallet, £43, Daines and Hathaway, as before 6 18-carat rose gold Parliament watch, POA, Dent London, www.dentlondon.com 7 Bladon black 48 hour bag, £1,400, Dunhill, www.dunhill.com 8 Silverstone Tourbillograph Gold watch, £25,000, Graham London, available at Harrods and Selfridges 9 Renaissance watch, POA, Speake-Marin, www.speake-marin.com 10 Cosmograph Daytona, £19,670, Rolex, available at Harrods, Selfridges and Watches of Switzerland 11 Classic umbrellas, £125 each, Budd Shirt Makers, as before

collection 18

Welcome to Baselword 2012 special event

Richard Brown reports from the world’s

feature

“ All the film people in

largest exhibition of fine jewellery and

the world... could not have found anyone so suited to the part

intricate timepieces

”

Sir Winston Churchill

comment

declare before you all,” said Princess Elizabeth in a broadcast not dissimilar in syntax and proclamation to the rousing speech given by the first Queen Elizabeth ahead of the Spanish invasion four centuries earlier, “that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family.” This pledge was made on her 21st birthday, 21 April 1947. The next 60 years would prove the promise anything but royal rhetoric. On Victory In Europe Day in 1945, Elizabeth and her sister had mingled anonymously with the crowds celebrating in the capital’s streets. “We asked my parents if we could go out and see for ourselves,” she later said in a rare interview. “I remember we were terrified of being recognised... I remember lines of unknown people linking arms and walking down Whitehall, all of us just swept along on a tide of happiness and relief.” Within seven years, the same young girl would be monarch of 16 sovereign states, head of 54 Commonwealth nations and Queen of seven independent Commonwealth countries. If she harboured thoughts of ever taking to the streets in anonymity again, she’d be forced to think twice. Though news of her father’s death in 1952 would have undoubtedly shaken Elizabeth – she had been talking proudly of George VI’s steady recovery from cancer that very morning – it was news not totally unexpected. The year before, as Elizabeth toured Canada on behalf of her increasingly unwell father, her private secretary had carried a draft accession declaration for use if the King were to pass away suddenly. Four months later, while touring Kenya, it would be her husband Phillip who broke the unfortunate news. As the hunter Jim Corbett wrote, “for the first time in the history of the world, a young girl climbed into a tree one day a Princess and… climbed down from the tree next day a Queen.”

The Future of Swiss Banking Global risk specialists mi2g consider what lies ahead for Swiss banks and banking privacy

calibre 44

Redgrave’s Revival

The coronation would be held on 2 June 1953, a day reckoned by meteorologists to be the likeliest to produce sunshine that summer. Despite the rain, thousands took to the streets for a celebration on a scale unequalled in living memory. Displaying a shrewdness for public relations that would be exemplified throughout her sovereignty, the Queen granted permission for cameras to televise the event, ignoring the advice of the Prime Minister, the Archbishop of Canterbury and Earl Marshall (the royal officeholder responsible for organising State funerals and coronations) in choosing to do so. The decision was an astute one; not only did it prove instrumental in boosting the popularity of television as an entertainment medium – the number of television licences in the country doubled to three million in the weeks before the coronation – but it also gave millions (20 in the United Kingdom, 100 in North America) unprecedented access to an event that had remained behind closed doors throughout history. Promoting Britain’s colourful heritage on a stage that spanned the globe, the coronation made visible, through the popularity of the event alone, the relevance of the crown in the 20th century. By commanding the attention of a nation enjoying the end of post-war austerity, the Queen became an emblem of hope and prosperity in what people hoped would be more peaceful times. For Elizabeth, bound to the duties that befall every sovereign, the immediate years following her coronation became a daisy chain of state dinners, public engagements and audiences with ambassadors, High Commissioners and foreign diplomats. After giving birth to her two youngest children, Prince Andrew in 1960 and Prince Edward in 1964 – pregnancies separated by tours of Cyprus, India, Pakistan, Nepal and Ghana – Elizabeth advanced into a decade in which she would oversee an acceleration in

Zoran Karapancev / Shutterstock.com

As leading lady, this is a part Elizabeth II has been playing for the last 60 years. Richard Brown considers the role of Her Majesty The Queen and her six decade performance

special event

feature

Sporting legend Sir Steve Redgrave talks to Richard Aldhous about the legacy of the

For most of us, the New Year began on 1 January. For the watch and jewellery industries, 2012 didn’t start until 8 March – the day that Baselworld opened its doors. Richard Brown reports from the world’s largest exhibition of fine jewellery and intricate timepieces

London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games

A Mini Shortcut

Welcome to Baselworld

It might look a little strange but there’s no

2012

denying the first ever two-seat MINI is a cracking drive, says Matthew Carter

concierge 68

ach spring something strange happens in the Swiss town of Basel. For eight days, hotel rooms become like gold dust, restaurant reservations become essential and the price of Guinness becomes, well, astronomical. Say hello to Baselworld, the world’s largest watch and jewellery trade show; an event that welcomes tens of thousands of visitors to the sleepy suburbs of the country’s third largest city and creates a corridor of fully-booked bed and breakfasts that extends all the way to neighbouring France and Germany. Think of any boat or motor show you’ve ever been to and multiply that by ten. Replace the yachts and cars with the world’s finest jewellery and most intricate timepieces, add more than a splattering of precious gems, stones, and silverware, and you’ll begin to appreciate the scale of an event that attracts more than 100,000 trade visitors and 3,000 journalists each year. If arriving at Baselworld for the first time, it will undoubtedly be the magnitude of the event that strikes you. Spread over 160,000 square metres of exhibition space – within a ‘palace’ and six multi-storied buildings with names like the ‘Hall of Dreams’, the ‘Hall of Inspirations’ and the ‘Hall of Fascination’ – the event presents the creations of more than 1,800 exhibitors, in a week that last year accounted for 90 per cent of the £15.7 billion worth of watches Switzerland exported within 12 months. Step inside the Hall of Dreams, home to the industry’s big boys, and enter a gleaming, glassy designer world that makes the likes of Bicester Village seem like flea markets. Set out in avenue-like rows and box-shaped cul-de-sacs, two storey ‘shops’ stretch from floor to ceiling and as far as an awe-stricken eye can see. Stamped with the logos of the world’s most prestigious watch and jewellery brands, each finds idiosyncrasy in elaborate quirks like giant, wallmounted fish tanks, indoor waterfalls and projections of mind-boggling holograms. As Baselworld embodiments of their flagship boutiques, each brand’s stand aims to mirror their real world counterparts. Step into Harry Winston, for example, and you are transported in an instant to the company’s New York City residence. Of course, as absorbing and impressive as the flat-packed constructions are, they’re not the reason thousands of visitors pass through Baselworld’s doors every

year. No; they come to marvel for the first time at the latest creations from the fine watch and jewellery industries. And once you’ve come to terms with the scale and beauty of the houses each brand hides behind, it is these that become the stars of the show.

International Offerings Located just a few miles from the valleys of Cantons Neuchâtel, Bern and Solothurn – the nuclei of the mechanic watchmaking industry – Baselworld provides the country’s watchmakers with the chance to show off in their own backyard. True to form, it was innovations from the native land that made the biggest splashes. While the watch arena may not witness the same type of shifts in trends that the fashion world does, certain styles undoubtedly proved ‘in vogue’ at Basel this year. Vintage has been in the spotlight for several years now and, if Switzerland’s latest collections were anything to go by, there’s little sign of the trend waning. The 1950s and 60s continue to be revisited via ‘new vintage’ creations inspired by historic models of a glamorous past. Aesthetics are simplified, with the frequent use of ultra-thin, round and more modestly sized cases. Highly readable faces are finding favour despite the growing popularity of openworked and skeletonised dials. Also noteworthy, amongst the pervading whites and blacks, was the frequent use of royal blue on both straps and faces. Having witnessed a 34 per cent increase in exports in 2011, it was no surprise to see an enlarged representation of the French watch, clock and jewellery industries at this year’s event. Brands like Pequignet, Lip, Pierre Lannier, Saint Honore and Rochet Bijoux proved that, when it came to cases, round shapes remain popular, particularly among men’s watches, whilst women’s watches focus on square, rectangular and oval shapes. Dials, on the whole, were less cluttered than those from other European brands, with discreet figures and indices displaying hours and minutes. Design-wise, gentleness and elegance pervaded, while when it came to colour choice, it was white for women and black for men. Over at the Hong Kong Pavilion, the largest international pavilion at Baselworld and the one with the most batterypowered wristwatches, the dominance of black and white continued. When it came to materials, white metal remained the mainstream, while the bracelets, necklaces

Best of British Celebrate the fabulous British craftsmanship and design of Burberry Prorsum, Hackett, Stella McCartney and Vivienne Westwood

regulars editor’s letter

65 fashion

17 watches & jewellery

77 interiors

35 business & finance

83 travel

The Great British Escape

44 sport

95 food & drink

Kari Rosenberg explores the best UK retreats

52 motoring

101 property

connoisseur 84

RUNWILD M

cinemafestival / Shutterstock.com

When? London Independent

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

the W-list... Deputy Editor Kari Rosenberg highlights the key people, places and events this month. April sees the London Independent Film Festival, St. George’s Day and the annual Oxford-Cambridge Thames Boat Race taking place, as well as the long Easter weekend

Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Editor

Annabel Harrison

Why? Easter the four-day bank holiday weekend, from 6-9 April, gets the month off to a great start. For the faithful, it’s a time to reflect upon the importance of the christian event, while others can kick back and enjoy chocolate, or whatever other luxuries they gave up for Lent. Who? Saint George

Film Festival, 12-23 April A celebration of work by new and independent directors, and a premier event for low budget british movies, the ninth LiFF offers a great opportunity for indie film makers and motion picture aficionados alike. www.londonindependent.org

With St. George’s Day falling on 23 April, having been temporarily ‘moved’ last year, English men and women will take to the streets to celebrate the country’s patron saint. other countries, including Serbia, Syria, Spain and canada, will also mark the day.

What? Cate Blanchett on stage at the Barbican From 3 to 29 April, cate blanchett is starring in Luc bondy’s production of the delicately surreal 1978 play Big and Small, a story about a lonely woman searching for human connection in wonderland-like Morocco. www.barbican.org.uk

Where? Putney to Mortlake on the River Thames, 7 April 2012 sees the 158th university boat Race and in terms of victories, cambridge lead the 183-year-old series with 80 wins to 76, with one ‘dead heat’ recorded in 1877, widely thought to be due to a sleeping judge. www.theboatrace.org

Deputy Editor Kari Rosenberg

Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds

Motoring Editor Matthew Carter

Assistant Editors

Richard Brown, Gabrielle Lane

Editorial Assistants

Olivia Sharpe, Sharna Heir

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Designers

Ashley Lewis, Sophie Blain

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Production

Hugo Wheatley

Head of Projects Ella Kilgarriff

Senior Property Manager Samantha Ratcliffe

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

7 Heron Quay, canary Wharf London, E14 4Jb t: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 www.runwildmedia.com

cover illustration by Danny Allison www.dannyallison.co.uk

VANTAGE

COVERING ST JOHN’S WOOD, MAIDA VALE, PRIMROSE HILL, MARYLEBONE, REGENT’S PARK AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

here

comes SUN

the

COVER STAR MARILYN MONROE SHINES IN A NEW MARYLEBONE EXHIBITION

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2012

I S S U E 2 1

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07/03/2012 17:02

from the editor...

April

ll the film people in the world… could not have found anyone so suited to the part.” It was Sir Winston Churchill who spoke these words about Queen Elizabeth II, praising the way in which the young leading lady gave such a perfect, extended performance, despite never having had the option to be considered for any other role. “I declare before you all,” said Princess Elizabeth, “that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family.” This pledge was made on her 21st birthday, 21 April 1947 and the next 60 years would prove the promise anything but royal rhetoric. Richard Brown looks back at Her Majesty’s six decade reign (p. 10).

career, his ambitions for 2012 and how excited he is about the upcoming summer events (p. 44).

Last year, our April issue celebrated the best of Britain, ahead of the glorious occasion of the Royal Wedding, when Kate Middleton and Prince William became the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge; despite this taking place on a global stage, it galvanised our nation, and the capital, into remembering everything that is great about Great Britain. This year offers even more in the way of celebration; the much-anticipated Diamond Jubilee weekend in June will be followed by a sporting extravaganza in July and August in the form of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Who more fitting, then, to discuss the British sporting scene and its legacy than Sir Steve Redgrave, one of only four Olympians to have won gold medals in five consecutive games? He speaks to us about his

Finally, although not strictly in keeping with the British theme, we just had to visit Switzerland last month to explore Baselworld, the world’s biggest and best watch and jewellery exposition. While for most of us the New Year began on 1 January, for the watch and jewellery industries, 2012 didn’t start until 8 March – the day that Baselworld 2012 opened its doors: read all about the stand-out brands, awe-inspiring boutiques constructed especially for Basel and this year’s most impressive new timepieces (p. 18).

On the British jewellery scene, exquisite pieces from stalwarts Boodles and Garrard are now sitting comfortably alongside the more avantgarde creations of the innovative Stephen Webster, Solange Azagury Partridge and Shaun Leane (p. 26). British fashion designers, most notably Burberry, have flown the flag for the UK at the most recent Fashion Weeks (p. 68) and, in the world of motoring, Matthew Carter tests out the undeniably British MINI Coupé (p. 56) and the astoundingly impressive Rolls-Royce Ghost (p. 52). Richard Brown meets Lord Mayor of London David Wootton, (p. 36), the man responsible for championing London, and the UK’s, financial and professional services sector.

Annabel Harrison Editor

“ All the film people in the world... could not have found anyone so suited to the part

”

Sir Winston Churchill As leading lady, this is a part Elizabeth II has been playing for the last 60 years. Richard Brown considers the role of Her Majesty The Queen and her six decade performance

Zoran Karapancev / Shutterstock.com

special event

feature

tristan tan / Shutterstock.com

60 years after her 21st birthday promise, it seems little has changed for a Queen who considers the coming of birthdays and anniversaries as inconsequential to the fulfilment of one’s duties

the decolonisation of Africa and the Caribbean and supervise the gaining of independence for more than 20 countries. For the royals, and for royal public relations, the 1960s would be notable for one other thing. In 1969, during the year-long run up to Charles’ investiture as Prince of Wales, the Queen approved a publicity exercise that would grant the public access to the royal family never so candidly presented. The aim of the fly-on-the-wall television series ahead of the investiture – a ceremony with the potential to seem antediluvian by virtue of its ancient rituals and fancy dress nature – was to highlight the royal family as a collection of normal, down-to-earth human beings, and people who shared the same concerns as everybody else. It worked; when the series aired, 75 per cent of the British public could be found glued to a television screen, watching not just the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh going about their daily assignments but, in their children, the next generation of royals too. The Queen had beamed the lives of the ruling few into the lives of millions. As the 60s gave way to the 70s, and popular interest swayed the way of the younger royals, the Queen and Duke spent much of the next decade in the comparative shade, bound to continual rounds of royal duties, albeit duties performed in the shadows rather than the spotlight of the

media’s immediate glare. This is not to say, however, that the decade would pass without significant footnotes. On a personal level, 1972 saw the Queen and the Duke observe their silver wedding anniversary, while, publically, five years later the nation would celebrate 25 years of having Elizabeth as their monarch. At the other end of the spectrum, the 70s would also mark the elongated separation of Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon, and the media circus that came with it, and more importantly, the assassination of Lord Mountbatten at the hands of the Real IRA. In the death of this man, Prince Phillip lost an uncle and surrogate father, the Queen a valued adviser and the crown a captain whose behind-thescenes guidance and counsel was widely viewed as having kept the royal ship steady for years. While the decade that followed may not have brought many historic milestones, for the Queen it provided incidents that will be hard to forget. Firstly, with memories of Lord Mountbatten’s death still painfully fresh, the Queen would have feared for her own life when six shots were fired her way during the 1981 Trooping the Colour. Fortunately, the shots were found to be blanks – although no-one would have known that at the time. Secondly, and only a year later, the Queen would awake to find an intruder at the foot of her bed in Buckingham Palace. Despite two calls to the police, assistance wouldn’t arrive for seven minutes – a period the Queen spent talking calmly to the intruder, whom she appeased by offering cigarettes. Elizabeth would have no doubt been thankful when media efforts shifted from exposing the inaptitude of her security team towards the wedding celebrations of Charles and Diana later that year. If there is a decade likely to remain in the mind of the Queen for the wrong reasons, it is the 1990s. In 1991, republican feelings began to rise as exaggerated press estimates of Elizabeth’s personal fortune filtered through the papers, proliferated in 1992 through media sensationalism of the breakup of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, as well as

feature

Bikeworldtravel / Shutterstock.com

special event

Prince Charles and Diana. In an unusually personal Christmas message, and in the wake of a fire that had destroyed parts of Windsor Castle, the Queen famously termed the previous 12 months her annus horribilis. It was a term she could have applied to more than one of the years to follow. Although separated, relations between Charles and Diana would grow increasingly acrimonious through 1993 with transcripts and reports of affairs published in the press throughout January of that year. As the image of Diana as the ‘Princess of the People’ began to manifest itself, the popularity of Elizabeth, who was seen as less than sympathetic to the Princess of Wales, approached a 40-year low. Three years later, and after a divorce requested by the Queen herself, the nation would wake to the news that its favourite Royal had been killed in a car crash. The troubles that had haunted Elizabeth in 1992 would have paled into insignificance in comparison to the scrutiny she’d face in the days to come. Before the week was out, more than a million bouquets had been left at the gates of Diana’s Kensington Palace home. The mass of flowers outside Kensington Gardens reached a metre and a half deep, while at the family’s estate of Althorp, mourners were asked to keep away because of the threat crowds were causing to public safety. During the unparalleled level of international mourning, the Queen and the Royal family had remained secluded. Only after three days did Elizabeth order the flag at Windsor to be raised at half mast; only after five did she address the nation. “What I say to you now, as your Queen and as a grandmother, I say from my heart,” she began. “I want to pay tribute to Diana myself. She was an exceptional and gifted human being… I admired and respected her – for her energy and commitment to others, and especially for her devotion to her two boys.” Amid intense pressure, the Queen talked as a sovereign first but, more resonantly, as a family member second. Speaking openly about her own emotion and paying respect to Diana and the Spencer family, the broadcast united the grief of the Royals with the grief of the nation. By the end of Diana’s funeral the next day, public animosity had relented. As the world welcomed the millennium and the Queen ushered the Royal family into the 21st century, the tribulations of the previous decade were largely forgotten. In 2002 the Queen celebrated her Golden Jubilee, an event some sections of the media predicted would be a failure due to a supposed sense of apathy towards the crown. The predictions were proved spectacularly wrong; hundreds of

thousands of people participated in street parties and fêtes across the country, while a million people attended each day of the three-day celebration in the capital. Despite the deaths of both her sister and mother at the start of the year, Elizabeth journeyed the breadth of the Commonwealth, notching up more than 40,000 air miles over 12 months in tours to Australia, the Caribbean and New Zealand. At the end of the Noughties, aged 84, Elizabeth addressed the United Nations for the second time in her tenure as monarch. Introducing the Queen, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon described her as “an anchor for our age,” noting that her reign had spanned “from the challenges of the Cold War to the threat of global warming,” from “the Beatles to Beckham” and from “television to Twitter.” However, 60 years after her 21st birthday promise, it seems little has changed for a Queen who considers the coming of birthdays and anniversaries as inconsequential to the fulfilment of one’s duties. “As I mark 60 years as your Queen,” she said in February, “as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign.” Today, 12 years into the 21st century, her popularity rides as high as at any time during her sovereignty. The young lady who captivated her subjects as the real-life Princess at the start of her tenure has retained the respect of a nation during an age of intense media intrusion and economic instability, as ruler of countries that have rejected proposals to become republics, grandmother to two Princes universally adored, and head of a family whose heritage she has made relevant even in an egalitarian world. Back in 1957, in the first televised Royal Christmas broadcast, Elizabeth claimed: “It is inevitable that I should seem a rather remote figure to many of you – a successor to the Kings and Queens of history.” In fact, from that day on, television and a society increasingly interested in the day-today lives of its Royal family meant that feelings of isolation between ruler and ruled were not inevitable. The fact that the concept of a modern-day Royal family, enjoying privileges simply by virtue of their birth, is considered not as widely pernicious as it might, owes much to the Queen’s dedicated commitment to bringing the Crown to us, her subjects. Today, more than at any time in history, we take pleasure in the feeling that as much as we belong to the Queen, the Queen belongs to us. n

IWC Pilot. Engineered for aviators.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Miramar. Ref. 3880: An XL uniform doesn’t turn a man into a great pilot. After all, the cream of the crop – as members of the TOP GUN squadron are trained to be – regularly go way beyond the limits of ordinary humans. A watch designed to do the same is the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Miramar. Its high-tech ceramic and titanium case, together with a soft-iron inner case to protect the movement against magnetic fields, is absolutely indestructible. Small wonder, then, that it occasionally goes much further than its wearer’s wrist. Mechanical chronograph movement | Self-winding | 68-hour power reserve when fully wound | Date display | Stopwatch function with minutes and seconds | Flyback function | Small hacking seconds | Soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields | Screw-in crown | Sapphire glass, convex, antireflective coating on both sides | Water-resistant 6 bar | Ceramic |

IWC. Engineered for men.

Jubilee Place, 45 Bank Stre et, London, E14 5NY. Telephone : 020 7538 2332 4 – 6 South John Stre et, Liverpool. Telephone : 0151 708 1140 28 St A nn’s Square, Manche ster. Telephone : 0161 834 0217 w w w.davidmrobinson.co.uk

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22.03.12 15:47

feature men’s.trend jewellery

baselworld 2012the brit brigade ......................................... best of british

......................................... ...................

the most british regalia

F Priceless emblems of the British monarchy, the Crown Jewels are on show in a spectacular new display celebrating the Diamond Jubilee

rom 29 March, the Crown Jewels will be displayed at the Tower of London in a glorious new exhibition. Featuring evocative graphics, music and old film archives, the highlight will surely be newly-restored footage of Queen Elizabeth II’s own coronation. Visitors will discover the importance of the Crown Jewels to the British Monarchy and their historic association with the coronations of English kings and queens over the centuries. Among the ‘Regalia’ on display will be the St. Edwards’ crown. Made of gold and decorated

with precious and semi-precious stones, including sapphires, tourmalines, amethysts, topazes and citrines, it was last worn by Queen Elizabeth II on 2 June 1953 during her coronation. Other astonishing pieces include the worldfamous Imperial State Crown, home to 868 diamonds, one of which is the famous Cullinan II diamond, and the Crown of the Queen Mother, featuring the magnificent 105-carat Koh-i-Noor diamond, as well as royal sceptres, swords, orbs, rings, bracelets and ceremonial robes. n www.hrp.org.uk/toweroflondon

We prefer not to be measured by dimensions. Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.

No fewer than four exceptional mechanisms enhance the precision of the RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite”: the tiny fusée-and-chain transmission, the delicate tourbillon, the ultra-thin Lange balance spring, and – not least – the patented stop-seconds device for the tourbillon which makes it possible to

set the watch with one-second accuracy in the first place. Never before has an A. Lange & Söhne watch been endowed with so many complications that simultaneously enhance its rate accuracy, settability, and readability. And so, this remarkable timepiece truly deserves the honorary attribute “Pour le Mérite”.

Arije 165, Sloane Street London • George Pragnell 5 and 6, Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon Hamilton & Inches 87, George Street, Edinburgh • Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London Watches of Switzerland 16, New Bond Street, London • Wempe 43-44, New Bond Street, London Lange Uhren GmbH • Tel. +34 91 454 89 82 • www.lange-soehne.com

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08.02.2012 15:52:48 Uhr

watches

collection

eXPerT oPInIon

watch

news

robIn SwITHInbank, edITor of CalIbre waTCH magazIne, CommenTS on brITaIn’S waTCHmakIng InduSTry what are the biggest changes the industry has experienced in the last two decades? The watch industry at large has enjoyed a period of unprecedented growth but the British have been relatively slow to pick up on it. We’re starting to see signs that the illustrious history of British watchmaking may yet enjoy a 21st century revival, with a number of promising new brands popping up. There’s great kudos all over the world in being a British luxury brand, so native watch companies have a great platform on which to build. Expect to see the word ‘London’ appearing on more watch dials in the future. who are the most important brands flying the flag for british watch making? In high-end watchmaking, the name of Roger Smith is respected and revered by collectors all over the world. Smith was mentored by the brilliant late George Daniels and plies his trade from an atelier on the Isle of Man. He produces fewer than 30 pieces a year, some unique and made to order, hand-crafting every part and creating watches that are as horologically pure as anything made anywhere else in the industry.

Home-grown TalenT Switzerland may be the undisputed home of the fine watchmaking industry but we’d like to pay homage to a brand whose roots lie a little closer to home. Inspired by the endeavours of the London clockmaker George Graham, a man responsible for the master clock at Greenwich Royal Observatory which defined time for most of the 18th century, Graham-London has been flying the flag for modern British watchmaking since it regrouped in 1995.

One to Watch This month, we select our top watch of the moment, opting for a Rolex Yacht-Master

With its numerous innovative watchmaking features, the Yacht-Master II model is the epitome of Rolex’s creative force and technology yaCHT maSTer II, £16,770, roleX Available at Watches of Switzerland, 22 Royal Exchange

Fitting for a firm whose namesake gave us the chronograph, dead-beat cylinder escapement and the mercury pendulum, Graham-London’s Swordfish Booster Iris is as much an engineering masterpiece as it is a product to tell the time. With a steel case formed through plasma reactions in a vacuum, and a nanometre-scale coating developed exclusively for Graham, the watch’s surface refracts light to change colour at every angle.

which british watch brand most excites you? Bremont, by a margin. The English brothers have achieved impossible things in less than a decade – a collection of highly desirable timepieces, a bullet-proof brand, a roster of virile ambassadors and a fanbase that watch houses founded more than a century ago would kill for. And they’re passionately British. This year they’re opening a manufacture in Henley-onThames where ultimately they hope to produce a luxury mechanical watch that’s more British than a bulldog eating a cucumber sandwich. which british brand should we look out for? Schofield. Its founder Giles Ellis only launched his first watch [a GMT piece called the Signalman inspired by his love of lighthouses] at SalonQP in November but he generated the kind of buzz that big brands set aside Olympic-sized budgets to achieve. Ellis is a quality obsessive and his 2011 allocation of watches sold out in a flash.

Welcome to Baselworld

2012

special event

feature

and rings on display suggested a renewed interest and demand for colour stone jewellery. Like our own luxury goods industry, the German jewellery, watch and clock sectors are profiting substantially from a growing demand for opulent goods, especially amongst the households in rising eastern economies. Last year, sales posted by the jewellery industry rose by more than one-quarter, representing a ten year high, while the country’s watch and clock industry recorded its largest growth since 2006. Not surprising then that this year, Basel’s carpets were graced by more than 170 German companies, although trend-wise it was harder to find similarities between the timepieces they brought with them.

Basel Highlights

Magazine, this year’s highlights included the new Carrera watch from TAG Heuer, made to celebrate watch-industry legend Jack Heuer’s 80th birthday and “Patek’s pleasing high-end offerings, including a white-dial Nautilus, and another super-strong collection from Zenith.” Overall, though, it was Chopard that won the day with its new LUC Lunar One: “The most beautiful watch of 2012 – a stupendous timepiece.” As much as it was about the watches, though, Barber noted how Baselworld 2012 was also significant for showcasing the growing confidence of the watch and jewellery industry. “There was definitely a brighter atmosphere at the fair this year. After a tricky few years – even despite all the reports of the luxury industry’s relative buoyancy – the brands seem to have got their mojo back, with fewer retro watches and reeditions and more fresh designs on show.” This year’s event may have only just come to its conclusion, but preparation has already started for Baselworld 2013 when the fair will be held in an entirely new exhibition space being built over the next 12 months. “I am looking forward with great expectations to the new era that will be dawning for this world show,” said Sylvie Ritter, managing director of Baselworld. With the watch and jewellery industry only showing signs of going from strength to strength, anyone planning on attending the event should be just as excited. n

“I am looking forward with great expectations to the new era that will be dawning for this world show.” Sylvie Ritter, managing director of Baselworld

The unveiling of Breitling’s Chronomat 44 GMT remains a highlight for me, as does Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller. Distinguished by its rotating bezel, the new 44 millimetre Breitling is a more refined and less weighty version of the brand’s staple timepieces, while the hotly anticipated Rolex is sure to become a favourite by virtue of it being the first Rolex with two timezones, if nothing else. Across the hall, Raymond Weil impressed with its Maestro Quantième à Aiguille. Featuring a silver dial, graceful sunray guilloche centre and traditional black Roman hour markers, the Quantième à Aiguille is a case in point of the current trend for combining vintage-inspired elegance with contemporary design. At what will be the more affordable end of the price spectrum, although specific prices are yet to be announced, Rado’s D-Star 200 watches are noteworthy for the amount of good-looking watch you’ll get for your money, should you choose to invest. For Timothy Barber, editor of 00/24 WatchWorld

Watches as pictured opposite clockwise from top left: Maestro Quantième à Aiguille, Raymond Weil Chronomat 44 GMT, Breitling D-Star 200, Rado Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller, Rolex

special event

feature

collection men’s luxury

3 6

The 11

Brit

Brigade Defined by sophistication and timelessness, it’s no wonder that the demand for British brands, like London-founded Rolex, has defied the recession

1 Bank lid-over attaché case, £2,166, Ettinger, available in Harrods and Harvey Nichols 2 Croco travel pass holder, £84, Ettinger, as before 3 Mississippi croc golf ball tube, £75, Daines and Hathaway, www.dainesandhathaway.com 4 Classic braces, £45, Budd Shirt Makers, 3 Piccadilly Arcade 5 Mississippi croc golf accessory wallet, £43, Daines and Hathaway, as before 6 18-carat rose gold Parliament watch, POA, Dent London, www.dentlondon.com 7 Bladon black 48 hour bag, £1,400, Dunhill, www.dunhill.com 8 Silverstone Tourbillograph Gold watch, £25,000, Graham London, available at Harrods and Selfridges 9 Renaissance watch, POA, Speake-Marin, www.speake-marin.com 10 Cosmograph Daytona, £19,670, Rolex, available at Harrods, Selfridges and Watches of Switzerland 11 Classic umbrellas, £125 each, Budd Shirt Makers, as before

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eXpert opinion: rebecca hawkinS,

jewellery

head of deSign for boodleS

news

it is extremely difficult to pick a favourite gemstone. I am most attracted to blues, such as tanzanite, star sapphires and aquamarines. My favourite would have to be Paraiba tourmaline, the colour of a clear pool of water on a perfect summer’s day. if i could choose one item of jewellery from boodles? It would be the Firebird bracelet.

the art of diamondS Comprising eight unique pieces, with prices starting at around £100,000, Danger is the exciting new collection by British designer Jack Du Rose. Du Rose’s rise to fame in the jewellery industry is as romantic and inspiring as his latest collection: he came to London dreaming of being commissioned by Stephen Webster, which then became reality. Subsequently, in 2005, Du Rose received a mystery call requesting him to design and make the master pattern for a life-size reproduction of a platinum and diamond-encrusted human skull. He worked 100-hour weeks for three months before overcoming the challenge and it wasn’t until he had finished that he discovered that it was Damien Hirst who had commissioned the £64 million work. Du Rose considers his works to be as much artwork as they are jewellery; each piece comes with its own bell jar and ebony display case, which locks with a gold and diamond scorpion-shaped key. jack du roSe collection, by appointment only, 020 7566 5870

Cutting Edge Having captivated the world with his jewellery for more than 25 years, Theo Fennell continues to excite his customers with his quirky wit and original conceptions, as shown through his latest collection

Jouster is made with a subtle mosaic of pavé-set stones that hint at the signs and shapes of antiquity but the brilliance of its colours and the liquid designs give Jouster an extraordinarily contemporary look. There is nothing else like it. Sapphire and diamond jouSter Skull round ring, £4,950 Theo Fennell, 4 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange

my designs are inspired by a variety of things: textiles and patterns, illustration and photography, poetry and, of course, nature. The less tangible and unstructured elements of nature, such as water, are reoccurring themes. Elegance and balance are the most important factors, whether the design is a more minimal daytime piece or an elaborate, dramatic one off design. boodles prides itself on being an honest, transparent company. All our diamonds are purchased from legitimate sources and are not involved in funding conflict in any way. a collection takes about 10 to 12 months from concept through to launch. An individual piece, depending on the complexity and the degree of difficulty involved in sourcing specific gem stones, would take three to four months. modern techniques have brought about many changes. Computeraided design techniques have made it possible to see a 3D visual of a product before it becomes a physical item. However, the computer doesn’t actually design it; whilst it is sophisticated, it is still a tool. The skill of the user is paramount. I believe hand drawing at the initial stages then hand finishing a master pattern is still very important in order to get feeling and finesse into a product. we are planning an exciting new collection for may 2012. It will have an exotic feel with an eclectic mix of motifs and influences. It incorporates fresh and unusual colour combinations as well as an interesting conceptual thread linking the individual designs. www.boodleS.com

The

Jewels in Our Crown

Britain’s stamp on the jewellery world is eclectic; our thriving industry champions renowned stalwarts such as Garrard and Boodles, diamond geezer Stephen Webster, and Solange Azagury Partridge and Shaun Leane, two of the most exciting new designers on the scene. Olivia Sharpe delves deeper

Garrard

Boodles Although unable to compete with Garrard for ‘the world’s oldest jeweller’ title, the family-owned company follows closely behind with a 200-year-old legacy, making it one of the most established of British jewellery brands. Embodying Boodles’ ethos of classic and elegant pieces, the Tanzanite and Vintage collections are truly exquisite, revealing the extent of Head of Design Rebecca Hawkins’ love of all things blue and sparkling. Princess cut Tanzanite shimmer ring in platinum with 12 brilliant cut diamonds suspended from a diamond set bezel, £52,000 Tanzanite milky way necklace, POA Vintage heart-shaped sapphire and diamond earrings, £35,000

There is no need for an introduction to the royal jeweller. Despite its traditional heritage and status as creators of the Crown Jewels, the British jewellery house’s forward-thinking approach to its branding is emphasised through its innovative Creative Director, Stephen Webster. This magnificent Fire of London couture necklace, created by Webster for Garrard, is one of Garrard’s most iconic pieces, worn by British icon Kate Moss in 2009. Fire of London couture necklace in white gold and diamonds, only available to order Georgina Chapman for Garrard feather silver diamonds and blackened silver earrings, £1,950 Star and Garter ring from the Grace collection, £5,500 All Garrard, www.garrard.com

Boodles, 2 & 3 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange

jewellery

collection

Shaun Leane Like any soon-to-be leading designer, Shaun Leane began his career working alongside revered figures such as the late Alexander McQueen, creating provocative and iconic catwalk jewellery. Inspired by this high-profile collaboration, Leane set out to create his own masterpieces; launching his eponymous collection in 1999, Leane successfully created a new genre of jewellery with his award-winning collections, merging the themes of poetry, history and sentiment with a sense of eternity and preciousness. The darkly romantic Blackthorn collection marks this fusion. Silver cluster ring with black pearl and black spinel, £325 Large silver thorn pendant with black spinel leaves and black pearl cluster, £445 Both Shaun Leane, www.shaunleane.com

Solange Azagury Partridge It comes as no surprise that Solange began her infamous journey to jewellery stardom from a small boutique in the heart of London’s Notting Hill. Here, in the ideal creative environment, Solange led the way forward with unique and quirky designs, each exemplifying her playful imagination and fantastical individualism. Following global success and having been handpicked by Tom Ford to be creative director of Boucheron from 2001 to 2004, Solange is set to take over the jewellery world. Diamond Hotlips 18-carat blackened white gold and diamonds, £15,000 Mathemagical bracelet in 18-carat white gold and diamonds, £140,000 Mish mash ring 18-carat blackened white gold diamonds and sapphires, £25,600 All Solange Azagury Partridge, www.solange.co.uk

Stephen Webster Madonna, Sir Elton John, Kate Moss… these are just a handful of famous face who have fallen head over heels for Stephen Webster’s iconic designs, making him one of the most influential British designers of the Noughties. The underworld of the sinister intent of femme fatales has set the overall tone of his ‘Murder She Wrote’ glam-rock collection, every piece concealing a deep and deadly secret; the Black diamond crucifix earrings reveal dagger-sharp pointed ends. Alchemy in the UK flag signet ring set in black rhodium-plated sterling silver with polished Union Jack design, £225 Murder She Wrote small chandelier couture earrings set in 18-carat white gold with blue sapphires and white diamonds, £13,550 Both Stephen Webster, www.stephenwebster.com

Canary Wharf London luxury & style canarywharf.com

SHOPPING

Louise Dear

Richard Bull

Petr Weigl

The

Fabergé egg hunt at canary wharF

don’t miss your chance to join the world’s biggest easter egg hunt, with only a few days left to go the artistic creations have been designed by eminent names including film director sir ridley scott, international landscape designer andy sturgeon and architect sir nicholas grimshaw. renowned artist Petr weigl has produced an eye-catching red and white spiked version. from scenic parks to bustling shopping malls, canary wharf egg hunters will have to search inside and out to find each of the 11 eggs hidden around the zone. following their hunt, egg-seekers can enjoy a delicious meal and stunning views at Plateau restaurant, one of 12 restaurant partners in london for the fabergé egg hunt project. the hand-crafted eggs, which are destined to become highly collectible works of art, will be available to buy at auction, with proceeds going to action for children eggs Fabergé, Plateau Restaurant Bar & Grill, Canada Place and elephant family.

Sweet treatS established as britain’s master chocolatier since 1875, charbonnel et walker has created a lusciously indulgent giant chocolate egg, as part of the big egg hunt, nearly 80cm tall and weighing over 12 kg, waiting to be discovered within canary wharf. if you are looking for something deliciously chocolatey but on a slightly smaller scale then search out some of the tastiest easter treats available at canary wharf, with many to be found in sweet couture cake boutique. English Rose Violet Creams Egg, £31, Charbonnel et Walker, Cabot Place

members of the public will have to keep their eyes peeled in order to find each and every giant fabergé egg before the search closes on 3 april. more than 200 eggs have been sprinkled across london in the lead up to easter, exclusively designed, bejewelled and decorated by some of the world’s leading art industry figures as part of the fabergé big egg hunt. there is also the chance to win your very own beautiful fabergé egg; the diamond jubilee egg, which is valued at over £100,000 - an opportunity not to be missed.

Florianne Belgian Chocolate Praline Gull Eggs, £5.75, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

Champagne Truffle Egg £47, Hotel Chocolat, Canada Place

www.canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

catch

the marathon at canary wharf

AS THe ANNuAL VIRgIN LoNdoN MARATHoN PASSeS THRougH CANARy WHARf, PICK A PeRfeCT PLACe To WATCH THe RACe ALoNgSIde fAMILy ANd fRIeNdS Thousands of Londoners will take to the streets on Sunday 22 April; running to raise funds for their favourite charities or to watch family, friends, or even strangers, get in on the annual sporting action. But whether you’re spectating or sprinting the Virgin London Marathon this year, Canary Wharf is the prime location to soak up the vibrant festival-like atmosphere, as well as offering unrivalled views of the race. Restaurants and bars will open their doors to onlookers who travel from far and wide to watch the marathon at this fantastic location. To enjoy the views head to Boisdale of Canary Wharf. Relax with friends and enjoy a tipple or two alongside a traditional realFlex Suede £65, reebok Sport’s Shop, Canada Place

Scottish lunch on the stunning terrace. Here you’ll have two chances to spot the runners as they loop around Cabot Square. Near to Cabot Square you can run Bottle £5, also pop in for some Spanish tapas at Sweaty Betty, Iberica or into Corney & Barrow for Cabot Place a fabulous BBQ. At The Park Pavillion in Canada Square Park, delicious Mexican eatery Wahaca also hosts a fabulous outside terrace where you can dine on delicious burritos, tacos and salads. If Japanese is your preference, grill and sushi haven Roka is perfect for pre and post marathon sustenance. Their terrace also provides great views of Canada Square Park. At street level, The Parlour and Canteen offer mouth watering food and drink, and if you’re looking to carry on the street party vibe, Wahaca’s Mexican Street Kitchen

SHOPPING

Boisdale of Canary Wharf terrace

The Park Pavilion

is a great place to pause, housed in a fully converted 1958 Citroen HY van. Also, with a great atmosphere, the fun and family-friendly Jamie’s Italian is located at Churchill Place. Now in its 32nd year, the 26 mile London marathon is one of the most attended marathons in the world, and will see Canary Wharf’s restaurants, bars, parks and squares make for a great day out in the capital.

Wahaca terrace

sporty and chic

If you’re preparing for the marathon, make sure you get all the running essentials you need in Canary Wharf

adrenalinexxxxx run capri Midnight £70, sweaty Betty, cabot place

xxxxx Ultimate performance ribble £14.99, runner’s need, churchill place

shock absorber run Bra £36.99, runner’s need, churchill place

camelbak tritan Better Bottle £14.99, Evans cycles, south colonnade

Bodyfit whey protein smoothie £15.99, holland & Barrett, one canada square

M pure connect £89.99, runner’s need, churchill place

skins compression Long sleeve top, op, Black £44.99, Waitrose Food, Fashion & home, canada p place lace Motorola Moto actV Fitness tracker and Music player £249.99, Waitrose Food, Fashion & home, canada place

Brooks Women’s pure Flow £89.99, runner’s need, churchill place

www.canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

arts&events

state of the art WITH EARLY SEASONAL SUNSHINE LURING LONDONERS OUTDOORS, DON’T mISS THE bEAUTIfUL ScULpTURES AND INSTALLATIONS TO bE SEEN IN cANARY WHARf

The Stuff of Dreams by Judith Cowan Until Friday 25 May Lobby, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf

Judith cowan’s two new sculptural installations are about displacement. In dreams, where the familiar is somehow linked to a new reality, known yet unknown, we accept them, and this is one way to engage with cowan’s work. In The palace of Raw Dreams she has imbued the corporate world with a sense of mystery through her film of passages taken from Sicilian puppet shows projected onto a huge walkway. Elsewhere, her series of sculptures, Globes of Stuff (one to five), contain everyday objects that have been bound and cast in resin, taking on a new status in this new context. judithcowan.com Exhibition Tour - Tuesday 3 April, 1.15pm Curator Ann Elliott talks to Judith Cowan about the exhibition. Tickets are free but please call 020 7418 2257 to reserve a place.

Luke Jerram presents Aeolus – Acoustic Wind Pavilion Until Thursday 10 May Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf

Aeolus is an acoustic and optical pavilion designed to resonate and sing in the wind with no electrical power or amplification - a giant Aeolian harp. Through vibrations in harp strings attached to some of the tubes the artwork sings in the wind. The tubes also hum at a series of low frequencies and as they are mirrored internally, they draw the surrounding visual landscape into the artwork creating a kaleidoscopic effect for the viewer standing beneath the arch. Aeolus was inspired by Jerram’s research trip to Iran in 2007 where he explored the mosques of Isfahan and interviewed a Qanat desert well-digger about his life. The well-digger spoke of the wells singing in the wind which led Jerram to investigate the acoustics of architecture and create his new work. Luke Jerram brings his interactive sculpture to canada Square park for its first London exhibition. aeolus.org.uk

Window Galleries

Anthony Caro in Jubilee Park

The Ar t, Design & Lightbox Window Galleries, located in Canada Place Shopping Mall, showcase up-and-coming ar tists, designers and craftspeople. This month, the galleries display:

Until Friday 25 May Jubilee Park, Canary Wharf

Sir Anthony Caro OM CBE continues to play a pivotal role in the development of 20th century sculpture. In a long and distinguished career he has worked on a huge range of subject matter, realised in a variety of materials, but it was his abstract work in steel that brought him great acclaim as a radical new force for sculpture in the 1960s. His innovative work and his teaching led to a flowering and new confidence in sculpture worldwide. This exhibition in Jubilee Park focuses on a range of Anthony Caro’s steel sculptures made between 1973 and 2010.

Rosie BReeden

Rosie Breeden graduated from Middlesex University in 2011. Inspired by organic forms, the rustic forging of metal and ceramic in Rosie’s jewellery makes it seem as if the pieces have just emerged from nature’s entangled elements.

anthonycaro.com Exhibition Tour - Tuesday 17 April, 1.15pm Curator Ann Elliott introduces Julius Bryant, Keeper of Word and Image at the Victoria & Albert Museum and an authority on Anthony Caro. Tickets are free but please call 020 7418 2257 to reserve a place.

APRIL EVENTS cAnARy WhARf chARity ABseil Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 May, 8am-5pm 50 Bank Street, Canary Wharf £25 registration fee and £250 target sponsorship

Join up and be among the first to take up the exclusive challenge to abseil 230 feet down 50 Bank Street, Canary Wharf in aid of Scope. Open to anyone aged 18 and over, you will be in the capable hands of fully

RichARd house childRen’s hospice sleep WAlk Saturday 26 May, Midnight Through Canary Wharf, £15 registration fee and £100 minimum sponsorship

This 10-mile walk will start at London City Airport and continue through Canary Wharf. And to make it even bigger and better than last year, men are also invited to take part. To register visit richardhouse.org.uk, email manjeetb@richardhouse.org.uk or call 020 7540 0204

qualified, experienced instructors, so no prior experience is necessary. To register email: Francesca via events@scope.org.uk or call 020 7619 7270

rosiebreeden.com

Ben Wilson

This series aims at creating an adaptation and conveyance of feeling into images. He wanted to portray the feelings of sadness and confusion through visual expression. Creating images, rich in meaning helped him focus his energy.

benwilsonphotography.com

Wendy AllAn

cAnARy WhARf Jog Wednesday 23 May, 6pm Throughout Canary Wharf, FREE

Walk it, run it, stroll it, sprint it – starting from Canada Square Park, you pick the pace and the distance for the annual jog, raising vital funds for the British Heart Foundation. This year you can buy a timing chip for £2 and have your laps timed so you can verify your best personal record. To register visit bhf.org.uk/canarywharfjog or call free-phone 0808 100 2109

Light and colour play a large part in Wendy’s work. She achieves the shades with hand dyed silk, soaked in resin and strengthened with fibreglass. Each of her lights is unique as a result of the processes she has developed. wendyallandesign.co.uk

the gherkin londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exclusive venue Experience breakfast, fining dining or drinks reception events in the rarefied atmosphere of The Gherkin. 180m above the City with 360 degree views. Deliver your guests an event that they will never forget. 020 7071 5009 | entertaining@searcys.co.uk | www.searcys.co.uk

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interview investment feature.

LORD MAYOR GOING GREEN ...................................................... SWISS BANKING ........................................................ ................................................

BLACKBERRY FOR BUSINESS

T Despite Apple’s almost cult following, BlackBerry is still first choice for thousands of businessmen and women

he Apple versus BlackBerry debate often proves divisive. Some are loyal to their iGadgets – and the Apple brand – right down to the core, whereas others are committed to a no-frills approach. Often the discussion comes down to one about form versus function. The Latest Reality Checker from The Corporate IT Forum surveyed heads of Information Technology at some of the UK’s largest organisations and discovered that BlackBerry is still the number one business device of choice, with more than a third of survey

respondents naming it a prevalent corporate tool within their organisation. However, Apple is not far behind, and was voted favourite on a ‘personal’ basis, representing more than a third of the private handsets used in the workplace. Android phones are yet to make an impact as a corporate gadget, despite strong consumer sales in 2011. Consumerisation of IT will continue to grow in 2012, with some organisations realising the financial benefits of ‘buy your own’ computing, giving user-owned devices access to corporate networks, data and applications. n

Guardian of the City During his one-year tenure as Lord Mayor of the City of London, David Wootton will address approximately 10,000 people a month, making around 700 speeches to foreign ministers, business heads and dignitaries. Richard Brown meets the man responsible for championing London – and the UK’s – financial and professional services sector

ailing from Yorkshire, David Wootton had no real link to London where his family and background were concerned. He is not a political party animal and confesses to being “very bad” at carrying out the orders of those with whom he doesn’t agree. Having arrived in the capital in 1973, after reading Classics and Law at Jesus College, Cambridge, Wootton embarked on a career that would steer him to the Square Mile’s top job. A partner at the international law firm Allen & Overy by 1979, Wootton would spend the next 20 years developing an interest in the governance of the City of London Corporation that would lead him to stand for election to the body’s Common Council in 2002 – a position he won by becoming elected Member for the Ward of Farringdon Within. Three years later, Wootton was elected Alderman for the Ward of Langbourn before becoming Sheriff of the City of London in 2009. In November last year, he was elected the 684th Lord Mayor of London, a position he must use to champion the entire UK-based financial sector. How is your time spent as Lord Mayor? I have just returned from a two-week stint in Saudi Arabia, and next week I’ll be off to Australia. I’ll spend half of my first seven months out of London. There’s a civic side of doing what Mayors do in their community, as well as a social side, a charitable side, and then a business side. Of course, as Lord Mayor of the City of London, the business side is most important. It’s about using the office and accessing senior foreign figures, usually through our embassies. I can take into the room with me other British people, businesses, and public sector bodies and get conversations started. The Lord Mayor can be used as a powerful tool in getting British companies under the radar of important decision makers. What are the biggest threats to the City as one of the world’s most important financial districts? Regulation. Nobody disagrees with good regulation, but if regulation is heavier than it needs to be, or more expensive, or if it makes life unnecessarily difficult, then it becomes a threat to business. There is proposed European Union legislation which says you can basically do anything within the EU but can only carry out financial services actively with a country outside the EU if that country has equivalent rules to the European Union. Who’s going to decide that? Another regulation is tax. The best example is the EU’s financial transactions tax, which is sometimes portrayed as a Robin Hood tax. Something like 70 per cent of this

interview

comment

is in Tower Hamlets, what is in Canary Wharf is part of what I represent. I act for the City which is now more of a concept than a boundary. I help to look after the UK’s financial professional services and Canary Wharf is included in that, just as the West End is, and Leeds, Edinburgh, Birmingham and so on.

“I act for the City, which is now more of a concept than a boundary” would come from activities in London which would get sent to European coffers and be divided up. What would have come back to the UK would be a lot less than the 70 per cent we contributed. How does London ensure it continues to appeal as a centre of international business? Firstly, by maintaining awareness in the eyes of the government and regulators. Secondly, by making sure these decision makers realise the importance of the city – we contributed £63 billion in tax last year. Thirdly, by getting out the message to other parts of the UK that we’re part of the same country, that we’re not just interested in ourselves. Is it beneficial for the UK to be part of the EU? Yes, but it’s a more interesting question to ask whether it would be beneficial for the City to be in the euro. I think it’s fairly clear that it is beneficial to the UK to be outside of the euro, but if the City was part of the single currency it would mean we’d be inside the discussions about its future, rather than on the outside. How do you think London is viewed among foreign economies? When we were in the Middle East two weeks ago, we asked people how they viewed the UK in terms of us being in Europe but not in the euro zone. The general response was that the UK is a better investment proposition by being outside the euro zone. People try to diversify their portfolio and they say: “I’m going to have so much in ‘Europe’ but that doesn’t include the UK, so I can have separate money in the UK.” A lot of people are worried that we might be seen as isolated from Europe but in the Middle East they don’t see it that way. How do you consider Canary Wharf in relation to the City? From the perspective of Lord Mayor, although Canary Wharf

Are you relieved to see the back of the St. Paul’s protestors? It’s good that the situation has ended but the City has always been quite happy with protests. People tend to forget that there have been many over the centuries. If you go to the Bishopsgate Institute at the edge of the City, which Victorian business philanthropists set up to educate the immigrants from Russia who were arriving in the East End in the late 1800s, there is a library which boasts the best collection of left wing literature in Europe. Lenin and Trotsky both visited there; we’re proud of that history. What we were never happy with was people occupying other people’s space, namely public space. At that point, the occupation becomes a distraction. We were disappointed that nothing coherent, reasoned and argued came out of it. The chance of a debate was obstructed by the fact that people were trespassing. Faced with a public backlash, should high-profile figures feel pressured to give back bonuses? The corporate world isn’t happy that so much of the comment is unsophisticated, in that it doesn’t distinguish one banker from another or a banker from an insurance broker or an insurance broker from a shipping broker. The focus is lumped together and has tended to visit itself on particular individuals. Bonus culture is changing; most of the bonus packages that pay out immediately after a year or two are gone. A lot of bonuses are paid in shares, although that never seems to get picked up in the media. The national press tend to portray ‘bankers’ as figures getting paid millions in cash bonuses, which isn’t the case. If you could change one thing about the City of London, what would it be? I would like to change the way people outside the City regard it, both in the UK and abroad. I would like us to make a much stronger effort in our exports markets, because from the journeys that I’ve made, it is clear that British businesses are very welcome overseas. I think the perception of the City at the moment is holding businesses back. People think that we are happy as we are, that we aren’t interested in our image and that we are not interested in external investors. If you could compete in, and win, one Olympic event, what would it be? The Eights in rowing. I did it at school in Yorkshire, I did it at university and I still do it occasionally. Every time I look at a stretch of water, I don’t look at the scenery or whether it’s polluted, I just think: “Could I row on that?” n

The End of Banking Secrecy? In the wake of the collapse of Switzerland’s oldest private bank, following threats of prosecution by the United States government, an expert from Canary Wharf-based global risk specialists mi2g considers what lies ahead for Swiss banks and their privacy

stablished 270 years ago, Wegelin and Co bank has managed to survive every threat posed to it across three centuries; revolution, financial disaster and war, including the Sonderbund civil war and being invaded by Napoleon then Hitler. Thus the bank weathered every storm but one: an assault by the United States government. The attack on Swiss banking secrecy by the US has sought to reclaim the funds lost through tax evasion schemes sold to its citizens. Remarkably, Wegelin neither had offices nor employees in the United States. It was 100 per cent Swiss and violated no Swiss law. However, US authorities believed that a handful of Wegelin’s US clients were hiding assets and not paying taxes. The fact that the bank wasn’t subject to US law and had zero legal responsibility in ensuring their customers filed

tax forms became irrelevant. The US government ultimately crushed Wegelin by threatening the bank with lawsuits, investigations, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) penalties and criminal charges levied personally against the bank’s directors. The US Department of Justice (DoJ) has been steadily closing a net around Swiss banks ever since the UBS admission of assisting tax evasion by US citizens in 2009. That year, UBS avoided US prosecution by paying $780 million (£491) and handing over confidential data. Ever since the DoJ and the US tax authority – the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – have been building cases against other Swiss banks that are alleged to have either opened secret accounts from scratch or poached UBS clients who wanted to dodge the tax-evasion crackdown like Wegelin.

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At the end of last year, it was revealed that 11 Swiss banks had been given an ultimatum to hand over thousands of client names and pay billions in fines to avoid tax evasion prosecution in the US. The Swiss banks were under pressure to provide all correspondence with offshore clients over the past 11 years – with deadlines set for the end of January 2012. Some of the banks in question were very close to caving in and delivering the data directly – until the Swiss government intervened and persuaded them to encrypt the data for the time being. As a result, the documents that have been handed over to date are encrypted to protect the names of individuals and client advisors. The key to decoding the information will only be provided on assurances from the US government that no further action against Switzerland’s remaining 300 banks will be taken. Switzerland wants these assurances to be enshrined in a new treaty with Washington, DC. There are signs, however, that Switzerland may be mistaken in believing that a global solution is in the offing. The American side is unlikely to be interested in such a solution at this stage, because it would give them less opportunity to exert pressure by making examples of banks of the Wegelin-type and impose hefty billion dollar fines. Many Europeans believe that the US will only come forward to make a deal when the fruit has been squeezed totally dry. Since the precedent set by the United States government’s settlement in 2009 with UBS, US authorities have offered 11 financial institutions in Switzerland (and Israel) a settlement agreement in which the US government’s investigations in those financial institutions – for aiding tax evasion – and potential prosecution would be dropped. The terms of the US government agreement would be similar to the UBS settlement in 2009 and would require each of the 11 Swiss and Israeli financial institutions to share client data regarding US citizens and, most likely, pay a hefty fine. Further assertions were made by Swiss officials at the time that offshore tax evasion would not be tolerated under the cloak of Swiss banking secrecy rules. Two months ago, the IRS reported that eight Swiss banks, including Credit Suisse, Julius Baer, and Basler Kantonalbank, turned over US client data on taxpayers suspected of tax evasion on 30 January 2012. Not that this puts an end to the negotiations between the US and Swiss governments; three more banks are still expected to turn over client data and a total of 11 banks are expected to pay heavy fines. Past Swiss guarantees of statutory bank secrecy dating back to 1934 are now gone, surrendered under pressure from threatened and existing US indictments of multiple Swiss bankers. The IRS and the US DoJ tax division have made it clear that they are intent on taking the secret out of secret bank accounts and will prosecute anyone involved: tax payer, banker or professional advisor such as a legal attorney. The consequences for failure to comply with the proper disclosure and filing requirements may lead to audits, severe financial penalties, and in some cases, criminal prosecution. To add to Wegelin-type Swiss banking woes, there is the new American FATCA legislation: the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act. The law effectively requires every bank in the world to make a choice: to either accept Americans as customers, but agree to share information with the US

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government, or to close the door to all US citizens and residents forever. Wegelin and Co may be the first standalone Swiss bank to fire-sell its operations in Switzerland as a result of tax evasion pressure from the US, but it’s unlikely to be the last. The twin-track civil and criminal approach seems to be working for the American authorities and the Wegelin case suggests the battles are far from over. In fact, the action taken by the US vis-à-vis Swiss private banks may be a prelude to further action by European and Asian sovereign nations looking to recover their own taxes. Wegelin’s fire sale is likely to be followed by more consolidation in Switzerland’s embattled financial services industry as the old, low-cost model of booking secret money comes under relentless assault from major governments around the world following the lead of the US government. The reality is that the service and pricing model of the past no longer works as Swiss banking secrecy erodes and private wealth management goes increasingly on-shore. n

The man behind mi2g DK Matai is an engineer-turned-entrepreneur and philanthropist who founded mi2g, the global risk specialists, in 1995 while developing simulations for his PhD at Imperial College. DK helped to found ATCA – The Asymmetric Threats Contingency Alliance – in 2001. Can you explain the objectives of mi2g? mi2g is a Queen’s award-winning super-computing organisation focussed on global risk management for banks, insurance and reinsurance companies, particularly in the area of black swans and low probability high impact events. mi2g’s real time intelligence is deployed worldwide for contingency capability, executive decision making and strategic threat assessment. how does the organisation hope to achieve these core aims and objectives? Using super computing technology, the mi2g intelligence unit visualises complex risk from real time data. mi2g’s bespoke security architecture, digital risk management and D2-banking rely on an innovative family of underlying tools to deliver scalable infrastructure that brings together people, processes and technology. What is the asymmetric Threats Contingency alliance? ATCA 5000 is a global collective of strategic intelligence for chairmen, chief executives and parliamentarians at the highest level. ATCA was founded in 2001 to resolve complex global challenges through collective Socratic dialogue and joint executive action to build a wisdom based global economy. Present membership of ATCA is by invitation only and it has more than 5,000 distinguished members. how can a business or individual hope to benefit from membership to the aTCa? Intelligence exchange amongst a distinguished peergroup leads to greater preparedness for asymmetric threats and opportunities arising from climate chaos and the environment, radical poverty and microfinance, geo-politics and energy, organised crime and extremism, as well as demographic skews and resource shortages.

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Investing in Energy The demand for energy is increasing, water supplies are becoming more scarce and natural resources are dwindling. Simon Ellis, Managing Director of Legal & General Investments, highlights three energy mega-trends set to be strong drivers of growth

Energy Efficiency According to recent findings by the Environment Agency, poor energy efficiency currently costs UK businesses more than £6 billion a year. This figure is likely to rise as Ofgem estimates that energy prices could climb by more than 40 per cent in real terms over the coming decade. The result is that the greatest potential investment gains will come from capturing the value of energy and resources we don’t use. Gains in energy resource efficiency allow us to produce and consume more, while depleting less.

Low Carbon Energy Production The world is entering a period of economic change as developing nations become industrialised. Global demand pressures will stimulate alternative energy supply and efficiency, but these alone may not be enough. According to Shell Oil, by the end of this decade, growth in the production of easily accessible oil and gas will not match the projected rate of demand growth.

As we filled our petrol tanks and cranked up the heating during the long winter months, many of us may have forgotten that reserves of natural resources are finite, despite energy demand ever expanding and increasing. This is further driven by global population growth and the rise of the middle classes in emerging markets, raising serious concerns about resource depletion. However, throughout the world, there is a greater focus on issues such as climate change, extreme weather events and environmental impacts from greater industrialisation and urbanisation. At the same time, governments in both developed and emerging economies are legislating to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency. As a result, an almost universal drive for greater energy and resource efficiency is gaining momentum. Climate change and the global shift to a low-carbon economy present significant opportunities for investors. More chances to invest in clean energy and resource efficiency solutions are available as companies develop new products and there are a growing number of these companies worldwide that profit from providing products or services from the everyday to the cutting-edge which are helping to improve the productive use of energy and natural resources. They can be divided into the following three sectors.

Even if it were possible for fossil fuels to maintain their current share of the energy mix and respond to increased demand, remaining within targeted levels of CO2 concentration in the atmosphere will be difficult. Alternative energy sources are therefore becoming an increasingly significant part of the energy mix and so will continue to grow rapidly.

Water, Waste and Pollution Control Water shortage and quality is a key issue worldwide. According to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), 2.8 billion people – around 44 per cent of the world’s population – live in areas of high water stress. By 2030 this is expected to rise to 3.9 billion The global market for water and sanitation infrastructure is estimated to be worth around $400 billion annually and as such water treatment is a rapidly-growing sector for investment opportunities. Fresh water consumption worldwide has more than doubled since World War Two. This increasing demand has seen the emergence of new technologies, including ‘smart irrigation’ and leak detection systems to reduce waste and consumption. Investment returns will be driven by a fast-growing need for services and technologies to supply and manage water, to improve infrastructure and distribution, and to reduce water consumption by households, industry and agriculture. n

Simon Ellis is the Managing Director of Legal & General Investments which recently launched the L&G Global Environmental Enterprises Fund 2011. The fund has been designed to provide broad, global exposure that will evolve with developments in the underlying markets. For more information, please visit www.legalandgeneral.com

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Stepping off the Treadmill Clare Murray explains why workplace arrangements and policies on sabbaticals can prove beneficial for employees and employers alike You may think that in this economic environment, sabbaticals would be the last thing on employees’ and employers’ minds. Not so. In fact, the current economic pressures are making some stressed employees, who have survived round after round of redundancy programmes, realise that there is more to life than work. They want to escape grim reality for a while and undertake that big adventure, to the North Pole or travelling across America, of which they have always dreamed. Employers are also increasingly recognising that in order to retain the best talent, they need to offer more than just money; sabbaticals can provide a great flexible benefit – which Generation Y in particular are more likely to appreciate. At a more basic level, other employers are using sabbaticals as an opportunity to save costs without having to make immediate redundancies. So what sort of key employment issues should both employer and employee bear in mind regarding sabbaticals? It is increasingly common for there to be a written sabbatical policy in a company’s handbook, setting out who is eligible for a sabbatical, in what circumstances and on what basis, how long a period can be taken and whether the employee will receive any pay during the months off. It is also important for employees to have clarity as to whether they will return to the same job at the end of the sabbatical and whether they will retain continuous service for the purpose of employment rights and key benefits such as a pension.

Without a written policy or provision in place, employees normally have no legal entitlement to a sabbatical. It requires agreement of the employer and, as with a sabbatical policy, will depend on whether it supports the company’s business needs at the time. An open discussion in which plans for the future are laid out, including who will take over work or clients and how the time off is permissible, may help with the decision making process. It is important to be consistent when considering sabbatical requests; allowing one person time off but denying another may result in a discrimination claim. If a company is not able to agree to a full sabbatical, due to workplace needs and business demands, perhaps a compromise can be reached in which an employee is allowed on an exceptional basis to take more of their holiday entitlement in one block. If a company does agree to a sabbatical (whether as a part of a policy or on an informal basis) it is sensible for HR to draft a sabbatical agreement for the parties to sign. This will ensure that all parties are clear of the obligations on both sides and, for example, whether the employee needs to undertake any work whilst away and whether they will receive any benefits during this period. A sabbatical can prove beneficial for both the employee and the employer if the right balance is achieved. Open communication and a clear understanding of both parties’ expectations can result in more productive and happier employees on their return from travelling the world. n

Clare Murray is Managing Partner at specialist employment and partnership law firm CM Murray LLP. To contact Clare, please call 020 7718 0090 or email clare.murray@cm-murray.com. The contents of this column are for general purposes only. Specialist legal advice should be taken regarding specific circumstances.

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interview Sir STeVe reDgrAVe motoring mini COUp…e sport minT pOlO in The pArk .............

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“And as the smart ship grew In stature, grace, and hue In shadowy silent distance grew the Iceberg too.”

remembering 15 April 1912

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As the 100th anniversary of the Titanic catastrophe approaches, the infamous maritime episode is to be remembered and commemorated

nd as the smart ship grew, / In stature, grace, and hue, / In shadowy silent distance grew the Iceberg too”, said Thomas Hardy in The Convergence of the Twain, capturing the harmonic tragedy that unfolded at the peril of the North Atlantic ocean. 15 April marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the RMS Titanic, which struck an iceberg only four days into her maiden voyage. One of the most fatal peacetime maritime disasters in history, it has since become legendary. The passengers on board totalled 2,200.

1,517 of those lost their lives, as the ship only carried enough lifeboats to accommodate 1,178 people. With 6,000 artefacts recovered from the wreckage, there is no denying the mystery and intrigue still surrounding the fate of the vessel; a primal tale of man challenging nature and losing. An American newspaper at the time concluded, rather forcefully: “The story has retained a remarkable power... Although caused by an iceberg, it was also man-made, the result of the state of mind of the British and American magnates and engineers who conceived and built the ship.” n

Redgrave’s

Revival

Outstanding oarsman and Olympic legend Sir Steve Redgrave talks to Richard Aldhous about the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and spearheading a British sporting revival

he title ‘Britain’s Greatest Olympian’ conjures an almost Herculean figure, minus the gnarled club and laurel wreath. But in reality, Sir Steve Redgrave – one of only four sportsmen to have clinched gold in five consecutive Olympic Games – dons none of his victory trimmings as we meet in an airy conference room on Euston Road. Indeed, his towering 6’5” physique offers the only indication to his immense sporting prowess; a giant amongst men, an athlete built to clash with the Titans. All this makes Redgrave’s affability rather more comforting; in casual attire, he sips his water, content to share his judgment on any subject broached. Surely a little fanfare should trail the country’s greatest Olympian, I suggest. “What did you expect?” he laughs heartily. “All the medals hung on display around my neck?!” He flinches at the mention of the lofty moniker. “That’s not me,” he says. “Some days, when I hear it, I think they’re talking about someone else. It’s nice that people think of you in that regard but I don’t really buy into it. It’s not a permanent title; it will belong to someone else soon enough, and there are people in other fields who do things that are much more important on a daily basis.” At the very least, the next breed of sporting heroes have the Buckinghamshire-born champion to thank for this

year’s London 2012 Olympic Games, given that he, along with fellow Olympian deity Sebastian Coe, spearheaded the successful bid. Did winning the hosting honour resemble a feat even greater than securing gold? “Yes,” he states, without a moment’s hesitation. “It was a massive victory for everyone involved, and to be part of the bidding committee was incredible, especially because we knew our task was extremely tough. Most of us felt Paris was, politically, the first choice to hold the games, even though our bid on paper was superior. But as times gone by have shown us, the honour doesn’t necessarily go to the ‘best’ country. This time, it did, and I can’t tell you how excited I am about the next few months. London 2012 is going to go down in history as one of the best Olympic Games ever, based on exemplary foresight, planning, and the legacy left behind.” Redgrave’s sentiments neatly lead into his role as Sports Legacy Champion, encouraging more people to start playing sport and advising ministers and government bodies about how to increase participation. It is hoped this will be one of the key long-lasting benefits to holding the Olympic Games in London this summer, generating a British sporting revival. “The best way of describing it is overseeing the human legacy,” Redgrave says. “Obviously there’s the material side of it, what’s done with the stadium, the infrastructure, even where the judo mats will end up, making sure equipment gets spread around the country to sports clubs afterwards. It’s that sort of process. But my concern is what sort of benefit this can have for our nation. I want the legacy of 2012 to inspire generations through programmes and incentives, something that we’ll continue to work on going forward. I want it to leave a permanent indent on this country for centuries to come.” The father of three, who won his first gold in the 1984 Los Angeles Games, and his fifth and last medal in Sydney 2000, was first introduced to rowing at the age of 14, finding his strength lay in the sweep of an oar, and eventually turned pro four years later. The success that followed didn’t come as easily as the public might imagine, with moments of doubt interspersing his career regularly and painfully. Even a year after his triumphant debut Olympic win, he became disillusioned with his form, and turned his attention to the bobsleigh, almost landing himself a place in the Winter Olympics alongside the British team. “I was concerned I’d never win gold again,” he explains, “A sponsor and good friend of mine presented this other option, where it seemed it may have been possible. So I tried it for a few years, took part in the international competition and cheated death on numerous occasions. It was only after winning gold again in Seoul that I knew I didn’t need this extra element to guarantee me a medal. And to be fair, I

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didn’t necessarily think it was going to happen in winter sports. Although saying that, I have no regrets.” Throughout his career, Redgrave, married to fellow Olympian rower Ann Callaway, suffered numerous bouts of ill health, including being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and type one diabetes. “I think, as an athlete, there are always going to be things thrown in your path that’ll knock you off what you’re doing. It could be injury, it could be illness, it could be a lack of form; there’s always something there. Diabetes was certainly the hardest thing for me to deal with. So my advice to anyone would be to tackle it head on, learn about what’s holding you back, and regard it as just another hurdle to jump.” In 2011, his daughter Natalie won the Women’s Boat Race with Oxford University. Will she be following in her father’s footsteps? “Not a hope,” he chuckles, entertained by the notion. “Having grown up around my training schedule, Natalie was so exposed to the rigours of rowing that she was dead set on never competing in the sport; she wanted to play netball instead. During her first year in Oxford, she did pick up some oars, which I was delighted about, of course, but it’s not for her. That’s fine by me.” While Natalie, Sophie and Zak undoubtedly look to their father for sporting inspiration, who did Redgrave respect

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most in his formative years? “Mark Spitz really captured my imagination at the 1972 Olympics,” he says. “The American won seven gold medals. That, to me, was just inspiring. I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be fantastic to go to the Games and win just one medal?’” On top of his commitments to the Games this year, Sir Steve has just penned a collection of his favourite Olympic moments. “It has been really good fun putting the book together, although at times really difficult too,” he remarks. “To be fair, it’s been years in the making, but it still became a bit of a Sophie’s Choice. There were certain people and moments I knew I had to include; the four-time world record holder and decathlete Daley Thompson, former World Record holder and breaststroke swimmer Edward Moses, sprinter Ben Johnson who was disqualified over using steroids. I’m delighted with the end result and I just hope it offers a nice literary precursor to the opening ceremony later this year.” So what’s next for the Redgrave machine? “Right now, it’s all about London 2012; I can’t look forward beyond that. We’re almost there in terms of preparations and the Olympic Park is looking fantastic. Personally, I might need a little holiday afterwards, just to recoup.” n Great Olympic Moments by Steve Redgrave (£20) out now

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Nuffield HealtH opeNs braNcH iN caNary WHarf The UK’s leading health charity Nuffield Health has announced that it will be opening a medical centre in Canary Wharf. The centre will offer a bespoke set of services to suit the needs of each individual employer, in order to help them understand the health risks in their organisations and how to devise a wellbeing programme to tackle them. “We work with many large corporate companies, including Credit Suisse, Barclays and Clifford Chance, to help them maintain and improve their health and wellbeing,” says Marcus Powell, Managing Director of Corporate and Community Wellbeing. “For members, we offer a free, clinicallyfocused health MOT that checks blood pressure, cholesterol, sleep patterns and glucose levels.” Nuffield HealtH caNary WHarf Medical ceNtre soutH Quay plaza, 183 MarsH Wall WWW.NuffieldHealtH.coM

tHe ultiMate boy’s toy AboutGolf, provider of the most technologically advanced, fully immersive golf simulators, has partnered with London architects Squire and Partners to offer the ultimate home golfing experience. From Pebble Beach to St Andrews, golfers can now play 50 of the world’s top courses in their own living room on simulators that come custom-built to private residences. More than a souped-up Xbox, the simulators promise to improve a golfer’s game by

tabletop tuNes measuring every drive, pitch, chip and putt in unprecedented detail and accuracy. Various performance tools turn the simulator into a full golf swing analysis unit, giving quick, tangible feedback that can be transferred from the lounge to the fairway. World number two Luke Donald has recently installed one in his house. We’re thinking if it’s good enough for him… WWW.aboutgolf.coM

full body Workout Official supplier to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Technogym has just unveiled the latest editions to its Kinesis range. Consisting of six products, the stations cover a range of push and pull movements which incorporate the basics for functional training of the main muscle groups. The position of the cables, different on each Kinesis Station, allows the user to train muscles progressively and in a circuit, giving a total body workout.

Roth Audio’s CHARLiE 2.0 and bigger brother CHARLiE 2.1 take tunes held on very small things (Macs, PCs, laptops, iPods) and make them sound very big. The smaller system features a speaker cabinet-enclosed amplifier capable of 15 watts per channel, while the larger delivers 25 watts to each speaker, plus a further 25 watts to power the sub. Available in black or white, the curved design pitches perfectly on desks and table-tops. The cylindrical subwoofer is itself a rare thing in the world of bass engines; it looks good, removing the need to hide it behind the sofa. WWW.rotHaudio.co.uk

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The BriTs Take over Geneva Mathew Carter reports from the 2012 Geneva Motor Show The Geneva Motor Show is Europe’s most important motoring showcase. It’s our only annual motor show (the other two big ones, Frankfurt and Paris, alternate, with the French capital taking its turn this year) and because it’s on ‘neutral’ ground, no one manufacturer or country can dominate. But despite all that – and a host of significant new cars from the likes of Ferrari, Mercedes, Ford and Audi – it was the British brands which grabbed most of the headlines at this year’s show. Star of the show for many, and certainly one of the most controversial, was the Bentley EXP 9 F. Technically only a concept – and, if the rumours are to be believed, due a styling rethink before it moves to production – the huge blue beast suggests that the next new Bentley will be a luxury offroader, a seriously upmarket rival for the Range Rover and Porsche Cayenne. The sheer size of the car was one reason for all the interest, as was the front-end styling. Regardless, there’s no denying that Bentley is serious about developing an SUV. Talking of Range Rover, they’ve taken the tin snips to the Evoque

to create a convertible version of the trendy SUV. Also officially only a concept at the moment, this one is equally likely to make it to production. Who wants a soft-top 4x4? Judging by the crowds around the stand, many people, actually, and it’s worth remembering that the first 4x4s from Jeep and Land Rover were soft-tops, too. Land Rover’s cousin Jaguar had some hot new metal on show, notably the XF Sportbrake, a fastback version of the XF saloon. Aimed at Audi and BMW estate buyers, the Sportbrake offers more rear headroom and more luggage space in a more distinctive package. This one’s real and sales will start towards the end of the year. But while the Union Jack Flag was waving strongly in Geneva, the best news from the show was the positive atmosphere overall, suggesting that the worst of the economic downturn might be over. Why else would Lamborghini be brave enough to build the Aventador J, a roofless, windscreen-less rocket with a price tag of £1.75 million? It’s a one-off and it has already been sold to one lucky buyer. Here’s to the rest of 2012.

ENJOY YOUR VERY OWN WALL OF SOUND The new BeoLab 12 is a fully digital on-wall loudspeaker that produces sensational surround sound in a graceful, minimalist fashion. It is the perfect compliment to any flat-screen or home stereo system. This revolutionary loudspeaker co-operates with the wall it is placed on, transmitting treble and bass sounds with outstanding precision and depth. BeoLab 12 features a sculptural design that forms a reassuring wave pattern that beholds powerful capabilities, maximizing every inch of the slim space. Call it the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most high-performing optical illusion, because when viewed from the side, this commanding loudspeaker appears even slimmer.

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Cycle to Cannes 2012 Richard Trillo tells a tale of converting sweat, effort and cycling into much-needed funds for children’s charity Coram

ycle to Cannes was the brainchild of architect, writer and cycling enthusiast Peter Murray, who first cycled to MIPIM (Marché International des Professionnels d’Immobilier) with 16 friends and colleagues in 2006, accompanied by a van and camping along the way. This year, a convoy of 80 riders from the property industry made the 1,500km ride, supported by a logo-emblazoned double-decker bus, three team vans – including one ‘grease monkey’ van full of spare parts – eight motorcycle outriders, two paramedics, two sports physios, a lead car, a photographer’s car, and a sweeper van with a huge sign on the back saying ‘Attention: Cyclistes’. A rolling road closure accompanies the riders all the way from Calais to Cannes. It’s only the first stage, from London to Folkestone, which has to be ridden amid traffic.

Thursday 1 March: Day 1 London to Folkestone: 111km Weather: cool and cloudy 5.45am at City Hall, and it’s all about parking the vans and keeping the security folks on side. As dawn breaks on the south bank, a crowd of multi-hued cyclists arrives with bikes, partners, children, bags and the odd mechanical issue. Today is also the first outing for Sitematch London – speed-dating for councils and developers, hosted by City Hall – so there’s a huge buzz in the air feeding into the nerves of our riders. Some have done the ride before and know the score, some have trained for months for the first big ride of their lives and are

wondering how they’ll cope, and how the fast the pace will be. Riders are each assigned a team (thanks to Savills, Willmott Dixon and Ealing in London) and most days are divided into six team stages, with each rider doing their two stages and any others they want to add. Today, however, everyone rides both stages to Folkestone, with a break in Aylesford.

Friday 2 March: Day 2 Calais to Reims: 318km Weather: fog and drizzle We’re up at 4.45am for the 6am start, with Willmott Dixon taking the first stage and setting a pace that’s just a little too gruelling for some riders. Who said northern France is flat? Some of these hills are brutes. Light rain makes the grit stick to the tyres and the weather brings the first few punctures, but our well-established system is sound, with the grease monkey van following right behind the peloton of cyclists and dealing in seconds with any rider who stops by the wayside. Nigel, chief mechanic, is out with a replacement wheel and sees the rider on his or her way, while an attendant ‘moto’ (motorcyclist) is always standing by to tow them quickly back to the peloton if necessary. War cemeteries, dark skies, baguettes and mountains of Lion and Snickers bars keep us afloat through the day’s six tough stages. France is supposed to be about sunlight and plane trees, cheese and wine, non? At least there’s a glass of bubbly for the crew at the end of the day – but only after washing all 80 bikes, many of which, caked with farm mud, now dried, would otherwise be ‘unridable’ in the morning.

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Saturday 3 March: Day 3

Monday 5 March: Day 5

Reims to Dijon: 302km Weather: cool and cloudy

Valence to Aix en Provence: 235km Weather: very windy with sunny spells

Well, look at that; it’s a 6am start once again and Reims is a bit of a pig in the cold and dark, to be quite honest. The day warms up, somewhat, and there’s not too much headwind. But where are the vines of Champagne country? We saw them last year, and we’re on the same route. Grubbed up? Or are we just all blinded by 18-hour day tiredness? There’s a fine downhill stage 5 today, and a short final stage to Dijon, a good dinner and a drop or two of Burgundy. The hysterically funny (at least to us) video blogs made every evening by Estates Gazette’s genius news editor Sam McClary and DJ Deloitte’s very own superwoman Lil Houghton – the ‘Bedroom diaries’ – once again steal the show as far as on-ride blogging is concerned. We have to assume they’re abandoning the bar early just to spend an hour creating entertainment for fellow riders. After the training, the fund-raising and the riding, their devotion is so far beyond the call, it’s astral.

For most of us, the mistral wind has been consigned to distant memories of geography lessons. For the riders, however, today has proved a blasting reminder, as cold gusts of up to 70kph targeted them from behind and from both sides. For some of the big guys out there, their tall frames on super lightweight, stallion-like road bikes have made for hairy riding, especially on the day’s glorious descents, and our rendezvous points have seen riders reporting freewheeling at 50kph, although the more compact riders have found it fun. We’re well and truly in the Provence of almond blossom and lavender fields and tonight, the Commonwealth medalist and twice Olympian cyclist Emma Davies has joined us to add glamour to the weary bones pushing down to the Med tomorrow.

Sunday 4 March: Day 4

We’ve saved some of the biggest climbs of the ride for the last da, but the giddy delight of a late (7am) start, and stunning Provençal scenery have eroded some of the discipline, at least among the riders. For the crew, it’s still a case of second or, at most, third gear and a steady 17mph, but for riders released from team obligations and with the scent of the sea in their nostrils, today is about getting to the top, and the sheer exhilaration of the downhills as the peloton opens up, allowing impatient French drivers to infiltrate our convoy. With the wind still largely helping, we’re all on the Croisette by the azure Mediterranean more than half an hour ahead of schedule. Pumped, exhausted, joyful and unable to stop hugging and handshaking each other, our triumphant riders mass in front of the bus in the spring sunshine. Who’s up for cycling home again? n

Dijon to Valence: 314km Weather: windy with sunny spells and rather unpredictable downpours Great music from the sound systems of one or two of the motos has powered a few riders up hills they never thought they’d climb. But the ride is beginning to take its toll on those who didn’t train enough, or took on too many extra stages in the first three days. Happily, we’ve broken the back of the ride and at the start of today’s last stage we speed through the 1,000km barrier – mostly good surfaces too, which on hard, road tyres makes a huge difference to comfort. In Valence (a new twist on last year’s route) we’ve also officially arrived in the south of France and, if the breeze is blowing away any scents of the Midi, there is a little more light in the sky. At least, there was, until the downpour that drenches the Savills team – and any other riders who’d decided to ride on with them, including the hardy dozen who are determined to cycle every kilometre of the route. Despite the soaking, there’s no mud to cope with, and Savills and co. arrive in good spirits, happy to have finally arrived.

Tuesday 6 March: Day 6 Aix en Provence to Cannes: 172km Weather: cold wind with warm sun and happy hearts

Cycle to Cannes raises more than £200,000 each year for charity. In 2012, two-thirds of the funds are going to the UK’s first-ever children’s charity, Coram, with the remaining funds benefitting Article 25, Tom’s Trust, Multiple System Atrophy Trust and Emthonjeni Trust To find out more, please visit www.cycle2cannes.org

Ghost Story Matthew Carter goes for a drive in one of the best cars in the world and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proud to say that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s made in Britain

motoring

‘W

aftability’. It’s probably not even a real word, but it sums up perfectly what it’s like to drive a Rolls-Royce, because you don’t just drive a Rolls; you waft about in one. This means any journey in a Rolls-Royce becomes a special event, and surprisingly, that can create problems. I’ve been doing this job for quite a few years now and you’d think that, with all that experience, every report is as objective as it can be. But the moment I slide behind the wheel of a Rolls, things get a bit tougher. I know it’s just a car, but there’s something very special about sitting behind that long bonnet and seeing the Spirit of Ecstasy framing the view ahead. I can tell it’s going to be especially difficult today. I’m at Goodwood, home to Rolls-Royce, and I’ve been handed the keys to a brand new Ghost EWB (extended wheelbase). The sun is shining, the roads are a rewarding mix of the fast and the twisty and they are empty. Objectivity could go out of the

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window. Before the start button is pushed, though, there’s time for a quick reflection on the Ghost. It was introduced less than two years ago as a new, entry-level model – the way into R-R ownership. In extended wheelbase form (introduced last year) it’s only £230,000 – a veritable bargain alongside the £337,000 price tag for the Phantom EWB. It’s smaller than the Phantom, of course, but these things are relative. At more than 5.5 metres from the Flying Lady’s nose to the car’s back bumper, it’s still significantly longer than a long wheelbase Merc S-Class, for example. However, the Ghost is very different to the Phantom. Even this stretched model – it’s 170mm longer than the standard car, all of which has been handed over to those in the back who now enjoy 330mm of legroom – is aimed at the ownerdriver rather than James the chauffeur. It’s certainly caught the imagination of those with the wherewithal to buy one. Despite the global recession, Rolls-Royce enjoyed record sales of more than 3,500 cars

calibre motoring

in 2011, up 31 per cent on the previous year. And of those, three in every four was a Ghost. It might be the baby of the range, but it’s still a big, imposing car. The famous R-R grille stands proudly at the front, though smaller and more curved than usual, and the bonnet still seems long enough to land a small plane on. Frankly, there’s an awful lot of metal to move about which is why the Ghost has a 6.6-litre V12 engine under that elegant nose. Not one but two turbos allow it to develop a heady 563hp, more than 100hp over what the larger, heavier Phantom can muster. The result? Despite its stately looks, the Ghost flies. Top speed might be limited to 155mph, but its 0-60mph time of just 4.7 seconds puts it into sports car territory. If that figure seems impressive on paper, it’s even more so in the real world. Put your foot down and the gearbox, an eight-speed automatic, drops a few cogs and the car, all two-and-a-half tonnes of it, doesn’t so much waft as rocket away. At least, I think it’s an eight-speeder: in everyday use the gearshifts are so smooth and slick that detecting any change is damn near impossible. This isn’t helped by the lack of a rev counter. R-R clearly thinks this device vulgar, because in its place it has created something called a Power Reserve Gauge. At a standstill the gauge reads 100 per cent and this diminishes as you floor the throttle – a bit pointless, in my opinion. What is perhaps even more remarkable is that, driven sensibly, you ought to be able to IN BRIEF get 20mpg from the thing. Alongside a diesel hatchback, that might not seem CaR: very clever, but for a Rolls, believe me, Rolls-Royce Ghost EWB that’s impressive. Mind you, if you can PRICE: afford the car in the first place, and £230,000 environmental considerations aside, ENgINE: you won’t be worried by its thirst. 6,592cc, V12-cylinder petrol This performance, of course, is PowER: down to BMW, owners of this most 563 hp British of brands. The V12 engine was DRIvE: originally developed for the 7-Series Rear-wheel drive, eightand the car’s steel frame is also related speed automatic to the BMW flagship (not that you’d PERFoRmaNCE: notice it, though). It’s twice the price 155 mph max of the Seven, but then, it’s much more 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds than twice the vehicle.

The engine’s performance really sums up the entire car: it’s smooth and sophisticated yet can turn nasty (in a good way) on demand. On the one hand – and especially when we’re talking about the EWB version, with its greater rear legroom – it’s a genuinely relaxing way to waft about. Yet start to use the performance and this big car shrinks around you and really shifts. But standing start sprints aren’t what this car is all about. Consider the fact that it takes 20 days to hand-build, and seven to paint and polish, and that the carpet is thick enough to lose yourself in. Consider, too, the rear compartment, accessed via rear-hinged ‘lounge’ doors, which has all the luxury expected from a private jet. 9.2 inch LCD screens are built into the back of the front seats; the sound system has a ten channel amplifier and 16 speakers; and the seats themselves are behind the rear pillar to offer the occupants a little privacy from the gawping crowds. It’s all about the luxury. The Ghost has a sophisticated air suspension system borrowed from BMW. On smooth surfaces it really does glide along, but on the UK’s broken roads, things can get a little unsettled. The wheels tend to patter over the bumps and the ride becomes almost jittery. Almost. We are dealing with superlatives here, so if anything fails to come up 100 per cent it’s worth talking about; in a normal car the slight deterioration in ride quality probably wouldn’t be noticed. I do hesitate to say this, but I have one or two other issues. The dashboard might look imposing but it’s an ergonomic mish-mash with buttons and controls scattered all over the place, though no doubt an owner would soon get used to it. There’s even one large chrome push button with no indication as to what it does. I never did dare to push it. The dials themselves are a little on the mean side, too, so it’s just as well that it has a heads up display to let you know how fast you’re going. Trust me, with no noise from the engine and no road roar or wind whistling around the door mirrors, it’s all too easy to break speed limits: the display is vital. It’s just a shame that its housing behind the steering wheel causes such reflections in the screen. While I’m pleased to see that I haven’t lost all objectivity, it’s hard not to be impressed by the Ghost. Why on earth would anyone want a Phantom when they could have this? n

TAKING A MINI

SHORT CUT

It might look a little strange but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no denying the first ever two-seat MINI is a cracking drive, says Matthew Carter

motoring

he designer of the MINI Coupé is 4’6’’ tall. There can be no other explanation for the interior which, depending on your height, is either cosy or just plain claustrophobic. In creating the first ever two seat production MINI, the designer has taken the bottom half of a conventional MINI hatchback and grafted on a weird new curving roof that looks not dissimilar to a baseball cap worn backwards. With a significantly lower roofline and a much steeper rake for the windscreen, the view forward for anyone more than 4’6’’ is akin to looking through a letterbox. If you’re six foot plus, your head will be brushing the roof, despite the deep scoops that have been removed from the headlining. The over-the-shoulder view – crucial when emerging from a side turning – is obscured by the thickness of the seats and by the rear side windows which are so small they might as well not be there. It’s even worse looking in the rear view mirror: not only is the back window little more than a slot, at anything above 50mph, it is also filled by the boot-mounted spoiler which pops up automatically to, er, spoil the view. Then there’s the aesthetics themselves. Beauty is always a highly subjective thing – one man’s meat and all that – which is why it’s always inadvisable to comment on a car’s styling. But I can’t help myself with the MINI Coupé: that roof is just plain wrong. So, then, clearly I disliked this MINI. But here’s the thing: I didn’t. In fact, I haven’t had so much fun in a car for ages. You see, this was no ordinary MINI Coupé but a MINI John Cooper Works Coupé, to supply its full, rather clumsy, name. It’s the John Cooper bit that’s important and is a nod to the man who invented the original giant-killing MINI Cooper. The JCW takes the Cooper S as its starting point then turns the manic meter up to 11. The 1.6 litre turbocharged engine is given a power boost to 211hp, the brakes are bigger and the suspension lower and stiffer. The result is a street thug, a sort of motorised skateboard, of the type that would be ridden by someone prone to wearing a baseball cap backwards. Fitting, really. In many ways, the JCW reminded me of the very first MINI Cooper I ever drove, a green Austin with a white roof. That little thing might not have enjoyed anything like the power of the latest JCW but it had the same attitude to life. In fact, it didn’t need that much power as its handling was so superb it could be driven everywhere flat-out. You just threw it into a bend without needing to trouble the brakes (which was just as well, as its brakes were rubbish). The JCW is a much faster beast of course (with much, much better brakes), and driving this thing flat-out everywhere would result in instant licence confiscation. But great fun can still be had, within the legal limits of course. The engine is wonderfully responsive and makes a great,

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gruff noise at higher revs. The gear change is as slick as they come and the Coupé handles them superbly, thanks in part to the lower centre of gravity and reinforced body that stiffens things up. Steering ‘feel’ is something lacking from a lot of cars these days, as many power-assisted systems rob the helm of weight and bite. Not the MINI though; its manufacturers realise that driver involvement at speed is of greater importance than feather-light parking ability. In terms of ride comfort, the big 19” wheels and run-flat tyres ought to render the car nothing short of uncomfortable on the UK’s broken roads, but while the ride is undeniably firm, I wasn’t as bothered by the lack of finesse as I thought I would be; it suits the car’s temperament. Less impressive, though, is the way the front wheels scrabble for grip when you boot the throttle at low speed. The resulting torque steer is very 1980s hot hatch. And the Sport button, which electronically sharpens up throttle response, actually makes things too sharp. It’s more of an on/off button than a way of progressively introducing more power. In truth, it’s not needed. Power delivery is quick and smooth as it is, thanks to the twin-scroll turbo which ensures there’s no turbo lag. Inside the cabin the usual MINI design quirks will either irritate or delight, the biggest irritation being the huge, centrally-mounted speedo, which despite its size is impossible to read quickly. Little wonder then that MINI adds a small digital readout within the rev counter, mounted on the steering column directly in front of the driver. The cockpit is also an ergonomic mess, with flick switch buttons scattered all over the place. On the positive side, there is a mass of luggage space within the car including a wide parcel shelf behind the two seats and a useful-sized boot with a hatch through to the cabin. IN BRIEF MINI claims the Coupé is a new breed of sports car and they may have a CaR: point, though I’d like to drive the JCW MINI John Cooper and a Mazda MX-5 back-to-back before Works Coupé I committed myself one way or the other. PRICE: Actually, I wouldn’t. If I wanted a sports £23,795 car I’d go for the Mazda, a car that’s ENgINE: difficult to fault in any way. 1,598cc, 4-cylinder petrol, But if I wanted a lively hatchback, turbocharged a car that’s agile, fun to drive and PowER: guaranteed to raise a smile every time 211hp I fired it up… I still wouldn’t buy the DRIvE: JCW Coupé. Instead, I’d go for a JCW Front-wheel drive, version of the MINI Hatch. It’s just six-speed manual as much fun to drive but far more PERFoRmaNCE: practical, and you can see out of the 149mph maximum thing without developing a crick in 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds your neck. n

calibre motoring

A glimpse into the future? Tesla’s Roadster adds its clout to the case for the electric automobile, reports Richard Brown

here were myriad myths married to the concept of the electric car: they were ugly; they were slow; they travelled only a handful of miles before they ran out of juice. Then the Tesla Roadster arrived and dispelled almost all of them. This is a true, allelectric vehicle capable of consistently achieving nought to 60 in 3.7 seconds (without the need for balancing clutch and revs, a driver simply flattens the accelerator) and travelling more than 200 miles on a single charge. According to the website, Tesla’s goal is to accelerate the world’s transition to electric mobility with a full range of increasingly affordable electric cars. To that aim, the company introduced the Tesla Roadster, a car that not only set the bar for both zero-emissions vehicles and supercars

but also proved that drivers need not compromise on performance or design to go electric. Powered by a liquid-cooled battery pack, the Roadster delivers 215 kW (288 hp) and 400 Nm of instant torque and consumes no fuel. The car plugs into any conventional electrical socket and can travel on one charge further than any other non-Tesla electric car on the market. Take a Roadster on a test drive and it will fulfil its promise of delivering industry-leading torque, without lag or downshifting, while sophisticated power management software means the vehicle’s revolutionary traction control is almost instantaneous. While the debate about the legitimacy of an electric car in a combustion-engine driven world rumbles on, the advantages of owning the former over the latter certainly become clear in the form of the Roadster. The car requires less routine maintenance than a conventional car, does not need regular oil changes or exhaust system work, and has no spark plugs, pistons, hoses, belts or clutches to replace. The Roadster is also exempt from corporation tax and company car tax. Tesla recently announced that the Roadster is now available with new innovations and options, including an improved motor, xenon headlamps and two new mobile connectors. Tesla is offering prospective customers the chance to experience the Roadster at Westfield Stratford’s Drive Event between 17 and 22 April. n For more information, visit www.teslamotors.com

This summer, come to Broadgate! Enjoy the line up of this summers hottest events in Broadgate’s spectacular and unique surroundings. From screenings of this summer’s biggest sporting events, to surfing real tidal waves with Flowrider in the middle of the City! Or maybe you’d like to visit the Lamborghini Museum or challenge yourself to abseiling down The Broadgate Tower? Check out Broadgate’s new website for further details. With all this and more, as well as bars, restaurants and shopping, Broadgate is the place to be.

Summer 2012 just got even better in the not so square mile!

www.broadgate.co.uk

SporT meets Glamour

he event may have won London Sport Attraction of the Year at The London Lifestyle Awards for the last two years running, but that hasn’t prevented the organisers of 2012’s MINT Polo in the Park from promising to make this summer’s quintessential event even better. Back with a bang, MINT Polo in the Park will return to Hurlingham on the 8th, 9th and 10th June with an improved Children’s Club, double the amount of bar and garden space, larger spectator viewing areas and more on-pitch entertainment. Debuting in 2009, MINT Polo in the Park has rapidly established itself as one of the leading central London sporting events, selling out of its general admission tickets and exclusive corporate hospitality packages in both 2010 and 2011. A celebration of international polo, lifestyle and family entertainment, the now annual three-day extravaganza pits six polo teams, each representing global cities, against each other in a round robin format. The three days culminate in the tournament final and the presentation of the MINT Trophy on the Sunday, won last year by Team Abu Dhabi after a hard-fought battle against Team Gaucho Buenos Aires. In a similar way to how Twenty20 has changed the image of cricket, MINT Polo in the Park has adapted the traditional rules of polo to create a high-octane, fast-moving and dynamic sport which attracts spectators and the media alike. Rules have been changed to create a fast and free-flowing game that is fun to watch, with MINT

MINT Polo in the Park invites you to spend a day, or three, on the banks of the River Thames for another year of highoctane polo action at Hurlingham Park

Polo in the Park reducing the size of the pitch and introducing teams of three aside, designed to encourage big hits at goal, much like the two-pointer in basketball. Veuve Clicquot will provide London’s largest champagne garden, while Harrods will bring a taste of its world-renowned food to Hurlingham Park. Browse and wander through the luxury village, enjoy the pitch-side Mahiki Rum Bar and celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style at Her Majesty’s Jubilee Pub. Head to MINT Polo in the Park on Friday, and the evening’s entertainment will include the ‘Veuve Clicquot at Hurlingham’ Launch Party, a glamour-filled celebration hosted at the world-famous Hurlingham club. For entertaining clients, the event offers a range of hospitality packages, from a Michelin-starred lunch with vintage Champagnes to an al fresco barbeque, a gourmet Club lunch with afternoon tea or an informal picnic. Whether you enjoy the skilled display of horsemanship that polo entails or are simply drawn to the thought of a cool glass of Veuve Clicquot in the shade of a pitch-side garden, MINT Polo in the Park promises to combine displays of top quality international polo with the highest calibre entertainment in the heart of the capital. n www.mintpolointhepark.com www.facebook.com/polointhepark @PolointhePark

promotion

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TickeTs and HospiTaliTy packages General Admission tickets start from just £20 for adults and £10 for children. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Please call the ticket hotline for groups and single tickets on 0844 248 5069.

HospiTaliTy packages: From a private Michelin-starred lunch with vintage Champagnes to an al fresco barbeque and from a gourmet Club lunch with afternoon tea to an informal picnic, MINT Polo in the Park provides all these options and more.

Friday 8th June – City Friday The Ultimate Club Package

£415 per person

Club Package with Veuve Clicquot Party

£498 per person

Pukka Picnic Package Cool Britannia Tea Package Private Entertaining

SOLD OUT £185 per person SOLD OUT

Saturday 9th June - Ladies Day Pukka Picnic Package

£220 per person

Cool Britannia Tea Package

SOLD OUT

Private Entertaining

SOLD OUT

Sunday 10th June - Finals Day Sunday Gourmet BBQ Package Cool Britannia Tea Package Private Entertaining (minimum numbers apply)

£210 per person £150 per person from £185 per person

For details of all the VIP hospitality packages, please contact City Events on 020 7936 5284 or email rachel@cityevents.uk.com VAT applies to all prices

fashion the trend interiors

ENGLISH ELEGANCE bOLd & bEAUtIfUL ................ bRItISH bEACH StyLE

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Courtesy of The Design Museum; photograph by Sølve Sundsbø

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LONG LIVE MCQUEEN

Celebrating all that is fabulous about pioneering design, The Design Awards 2012 will applaud Britain’s most fashionable institutions

vision in ivory silk tulle and floral lace appliqué, the image of Kate Middleton gliding down the aisle, amid all the pomp and pageantry, is one that is hard to forget. While the Duchess, and Duke, of Cambridge were no doubt the stars of the show last summer, following an avalanche of speculation, The Dress was undeniably a leading lady in its own right. Celebrating the most innovative, interesting and forward-thinking designs produced in the last 12 months, the winners of The Design Awards 2012 will be announced on 24 April. Long-listed

British fashion entries include the iconic Duchess of Cambridge's wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen. McQueen’s Savage Beauty collection (above) has also been nominated. The late McQueen once said: “You’ve got to know the rules to break them. That’s what I’m here for, to demolish the rules but to keep the tradition.” Vivienne Westwood's Ethical Fashion Africa Collection and Mary Katrantzou’s stunning A/W11 line are also nominated. n The Designs of the Year exhibition runs until 4 July at the Design Museum, www.designmuseum.org

Swiss movement, English heart

C8 PILOT MKII VINTAGE EDITION ÂŁ365.00

Swiss made / 26 jewel automatic movement / 38 hour power reserve / Balance wheel viewing window / Old radium superluminova hands and indices Diameter: 44mm / Calibre: Sellita SW200-1. E XC LU S I V E LY AVA I L A B L E AT

ChristopherWard_CanaryWharf.indd 1

christopherward.co.uk

12/03/2012 15:08

fashion

concierge

men’s fashion

news a. sauvage: BriTish sTyLe A.Sauvage is opening its new flagship store at 48 Maddox Street. Counting among its ambassadors Mark Ronson, Noel Gallagher and Dominic Cooper, the brand has been described as “a way of life” by The Observer and “the future of British menswear” by The Evening Standard. Head to the store to stock up on A. Sauvage’s trademark satinlapelled tuxedos and houndstooth flecked blazers.

making a spLash Two years ago it was Vilebrequin; last year it was Orlebar Brown; this summer we’re certain it will be Love Brand & Co. providing the swim shorts in which to be seen. The brainchild of London designer Oliver Tomalin, the company’s Trunks for Trunks range is committed to the plight of the endangered Asian elephant by helping to raise money for Elephant Family, a charity dedicated to saving the iconic, endangered animal.

BurBerry BriT He first hit the billboards four years ago when he modelled Burberry’s S/S08 campaign. Now, fresh from the worldwide success of The Pillars of the Earth and My Week with Marilyn, Brit actor Eddie Redmayne is back, fronting the brand’s latest S/S collection. Shot in London with model of the moment Cara Delevingne, the playful campaign highlights the iconic brand’s ‘heritage in protection’ ethos, showcasing parkas and the signature Burberry trench coat. Burberry will be introducing a new image every month throughout the season to display the breadth of the collection. www.BurBerry.Com

The loosely tailored S/S12 collection has a classic European cut (above the knee) and comes in a selection of eight block colours, two stripes and five limited edition prints. Expect to see the beaches of Ibiza, St. Barts and the South of France awash with the Elephant logo. Love Brand & Co.’s Trunks for Trunks are avaiLaBLe onLine from www.LoveBrand.Com and aT seLfridges, priCed aT £128

www.asauvage.Com

Business CLass It may be finished with Italian-made hardware and feature Swiss-made zips, but this handmade cabin bag is the latest creation from a brand as British as Yorkshire puddings and afternoon tea. Aspinal’s Revival Roller Cabin Bag is crafted from supple pebble-textured calf leather and accented by distinctive studs and equestrianstyled tan straps. Tailored to comply with aeroplane cabin restrictions, this smart, masculine bag provides the ideal luggage for short business trips and weekend city breaks. The revivaL roLLer CaBin Bag avaiLaBLe aT aspinaL, 34 Long aCre priCed aT £795

CONTESSA To own a rare Argyle pink diamond is to own a truly magnificent heirloom. Contessa, beautifully handcrafted in Platinum and 18ct Rose Gold, features an exquisite combination of stunning craftsmanship and the rarest of Australian Argyle pink diamonds. Simply, they are the rarest diamonds in the world and are revered for their unique provenance and intrinsic beauty.

UNITED KINGDOM The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, Mayfair London W1S 4SW AUSTRALIA Sydney Gold Coast calleija.com

Calleija-CountryTownUK-298x225mm_v1.indd 1

25/01/12 11:51 AM

fashion

concierge

women’s fashion

Evening gown, designed by Alexander McQueen, A/W09 Francois Guillot/AFP/Getty Images

news mAde in bRitiAn

Focussing on the best work by designers born, trained, or based in the UK, the Victoria & Albert Museum’s spring exhibition will showcase the best of British creative talent, from the 1948 ‘Austerity Olympics’ to the summer of 2012. Featuring an iconic McQueen dress from his 2009 Horn of Plenty collection, the pieces on display aim to reinforce Britain’s status as a global leader in design and to examine how the industry has flourished. exhibition Runs until 12 AuGust

Quote of the month

most WAnted: teAtum Jones Having launched their debut womenswear collection in London last September, Catherine Teatum and Rob Jones, the designers behind the Teatum Jones brand, recently introduced their third collection for S/S12. With their pieces encapsulating

refined classic shapes in neutral and pastel tones, the designs take a contemporary stance on elegance: chic yet casual, fashion forward yet wearable, with the perfect feminine and masculine balance. WWW.libeRtY.Co.uK

You must be comfortable, never flashy, just appropriate... it’s not unfeminine to be well-tailored mARGARet thAtCheR

MUST-HAVE ITEM: BRYN BAg BY MULBERRY

NEwSfLASH

TREND: THE ART Of TRENCH

As much a British institution as a creator of covetable handbags, Mulberry was founded in 1971 and has long been synonymous with finely crafted leather ware. Known for its timeless yet stylish shapes, Mulberry’s newest design, Bryn, will be available in stores from May and has its roots in the iconic men’s bag Brynmore - a leather classic with a simple, beautifully crafted design and heritage hardware.

For a concise collection of original high quality accessories and luxurious gifts – from cashmere ties to coffee table books and fine leather wallets to elegant jewellery – online boutique giftatelier.com provides a one-stop shop. Celebrating local craftmanship, the Best of British section stocks every must-have brand, from Bamford and Ettinger to Green & Spring.

Invented by its founder Thomas Burberry, the classic trench coat, for which the brand is famous, will always be in style. This more decorative Burberry Prorsum cover-up, with hand-crafted bead detailing, will add the perfect mix of elegance and colour to any spring ensemble, complimenting the season’s pale and nude shades with a fun splash of eyecatching hues and bold use of patterns.

bRYn shinY GRAin in flAme £695 WWW.mulbeRRY.Com

GeometRiC beAded tRenCh CoAt £4,995 WWW.buRbeRRY.Com

Best of British Photographer:

Chris Bracewell Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

Flying the flag for the best of British design are the spring collections from Burberry, Stella McCartney, Hackett and Vivienne Westwood

Dark ink blue raffia stripe crochet bead coat, £2,995 Dark sisal canvas nylon cropped funnel neck storm coat, £1,495 Bright larch cotton wool jumper, £595 All Burberry Prorsum, www.burberry.com

Silk tropical dress shirt, £475 Matching silk trousers, £665 Stella McCartney at Matches www.matchesfashion.com Orange Letitia stilettos, £850 Blue Reese clutch, £350 Jimmy Choo, www.jimmychoo.com

Sky linen blazer, £450, green v-neck jumper £130, blue parachute belt, £55 Red trousers, £135, floral scarf, £40 All Hackett, www.hackett.com

Multiprint bright bloom dress, £865 Erdem at Harvey Nichols www.harveynichols.com ‘Cassidy’ flesh python slingbacks, £590 Gina, 020 7409 7090, www.gina.com

Grey Mayfair POW check suit, £650 Red belt £65, white polo shirt, £85 All Hackett, www.hackett.com Orange folded collar cotton shirt, £220 Grey POW check jacket, £525 Matching drape pencil skirt, £220 Vivienne Westwood at Harvey Nichols Orange Letitia stilettos, £850 Orange Reed clutch, £425 Both Jimmy Choo, as before

Hair: Darren Hau @ Naked Artists using Kiehls

Make-up: Kate Hughes @ Tiger Creative using MAC Shot on location at Cowley Manor Cowley, Near Cheltenham Gloucestershire, GL53 9NL www.cowleymanor.com

ring Masters

handmade heritage

Boodles has been a national institution for more than 200 years. Indeed, such is the respect it commands that its Raindance ring is displayed in the permanent collection at the V&A as an outstanding example of modern jewellery design. An array of brilliant-cut diamond raindrops set in platinum, and set with seven, eight or nine stones, it is a fine illustration of British craftsmanship.

For five generations, over 130 years, the family-run firm Crockett & Jones, based in Northampton – the British capital of the shoemaker’s craft – has been creating footwear with an uncompromising commitment to quality and attention to detail, while constantly evolving innovative styles. This season, new additions include the Petersham, a luxurious slip-on brogue from the Hand Grade collection, and the Dover 2, a modern Oxford lace-up. Petersham shoes, from £450 Crockett & Jones 25 Royal Exchange 020 7929 2111

Raindance 9-stone ring, £8,250 Boodles 2 & 3 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 7283 7284

British heritage Visit the Royal Exchange to mark the wonderful occasion of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee this summer and celebrate all things quintessentially British

Over ‘Knight’ Bag

Bags of style

No collection of the Best of British design would be complete without something from Sir Paul Smith – a national treasure who continues to originate trends and come up with innovative ideas. The Paul Smith Torn Paper bag is a design classic: the polycotton canvas holdall has leather detailing, including a luggage tag with the Paul Smith signature.

Highly original yet consistently elegant, Lulu Guinness handbags are the epitome of British style. In this year of royal, cultural and sporting celebrations, join in the festivities with a gorgeous bag, such as this sequined Union Jack clutch for a touch of patriotic shimmer or flaunt your island-dwelling credentials with a charming purse. Union Jack Felicity clutch bag, £275

Torn Paper holdall, £173 Paul Smith 7 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 7626 4778

Lulu Guinness 23 Royal Exchange 020 7626 5391

Scents of Time

Jewel Purpose

As the country anticipates the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s accession, heritage perfumer Penhaligon’s is celebrating in a very special way – by reprising Jubilee Bouquet, a wonderful fragrance created in 1977 to celebrate Her Majesty’s 25 years on the throne. A captivating floral chypre, it is an entrancing symphony of green lily, jasmine, violet and amber, and a commemorative souvenir to cherish.

Tateossian jewellery brilliantly combines traditional British qualities, such as irreverence and design skill. These British Bull Dog cufflinks, complete with crowns, will add a witty touch to any shirtsleeve. The spirit of fun and emphasis on original design continues in Tateossian’s ladies’ jewellery range ,which includes a collection created by Central St Martins graduates and features a versatile ring by Grace Cross. Silver King bull dog cufflinks, £275 Tateossian 1/4 Royal Exchange 020 7283 3434

Jubilee Bouquet, £95 for 100ml Penhaligon’s 4 Royal Exchange 020 7623 3131

A Capital Idea With the Olympics a matter of months away, Jo Malone’s perfumers have turned their olfactory attentions to the capital, launching a limited-edition new collection; London Blooms, which draws inspiration from the city’s gardens. Choose from three daring dualities – Peony & Moss, White Lilac & Rhubarb and Iris & Lady Moore – and be charmed by the botanical drawings that decorate the bottles. London Blooms collection cologne, £72 for 100ml Jo Malone London 24 Royal Exchange 0870 192 5131

Jubilant Jewellery Theo Fennell knows a thing or two about Jubilees – his company is celebrating its Pearl Jubilee this year, 30 years after the first shop opened in 1982. To celebrate the Queen’s milestone, the jeweller to stars including the Beckhams and Elton John has created the Coronet series, including earrings featuring crowns and orbs, and a diamond bracelet with crowns set with a quartz, amethyst, citrine, topaz and prasiolite. Coronet bracelet, £7,500 Theo Fennell 4 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 7623 4380

Agent ProvocAteur || ArtisAn Fine Art || BAchet || Boodles || BulgAri || church’s || crockett & Jones || de Beers gucci || herMes || Jo MAlone || kiehls || koJis || l’occitAne || loeWe || loro PiAnA || lulu guinness || MillePerle Molton BroWn || MontBlAnc || oMegA || PAul A. Young Fine chocolAtes || PAul sMith || PenhAligon’s PrettY BAllerinAs || roYAl exchAnge JeWellers || seArle & co || sMoker’s PArAdise || sMYthson || tAteossiAn theo Fennell || tiFFAnY & co. || vileBrequin || WAtches oF sWitzerlAnd grAnd cAFe & BAr || iMPeriAl citY || MezzAnine lounge || nAPket || PAvArotti’s || sAuterelle

Royal Exchange, Bank, City of London, EC3V 3LR

www.theroyalexchange.co.uk

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SPRING EVENT Candlesticks

Silver vaults the London

Spring Selling Exhibition until mid-May 2012. Carrying The Flame: Candlesticks from three centuries. www.thesilvervaults.com

the home of silver shopping

Stuart Devlin 1960s/1970s silver and silver gilt globe candelabrum, candle holder and snuffer.

Designer silverware

interiors

concierge

interiors

news BARKING BEAMS For a quirky talking piece, Graham & Green never fails to disappoint. Jessie the chrome dog lamp evokes a winning combination of glamour and wit, exclusive to Graham & Green and designed by Jamie Graham himself. Providing the space is free from any other animal art, this lamp will add a lighthearted touch. Shown with a black silk shade (not included), the lamp base has a bayonet bulb fitting. THE JESSIE TABLE LAMP, £125 WWW.GRAHAMANdGREEN.CO.UK

ARE YOU SITTING COMFORTABLY?

BOTTOMS UP

Renowned for its high quality, comfortable yet elegant upholstery, this sumptuous Bluebell couch from Sofa.com will provide the perfect centre piece for any living room. Dress it up with a Ralph Lauren cable-knit cashmere throw or teal velvet scatter cushions for a British beachhouse look. With more than 58 house fabrics and

Bollinger or Merlot? Either will stand up to the job in this superchic crested wine cooler, perfect for entertaining or a quiet night in. Sweetpea and Willow offer luxurious and high quality antique furnishings in their online boutique, specialising in one-off vintage French collectables such as handpainted consoles, ornate cabinets and hand-carved chairs.

a plethora of other couch styles on offer, each bespoke sofa is made to order using pure Belgian linens, corduroys, wools, velvets and leathers, or any other fabric that takes your fancy, which they’ll happily source for you without a fuss. BLUEBELL THREE SEATER IN NATURAL FLAX ANd PURE BELGIAN LINEN, £1,270, WWW.SOFA.COM

WALL-SMART The go-to brand for sophisticated yet fun wallpaper, Designers Guild’s spring friendly Rosa Chinensis in indigo will compliment any simple beach house style interior. Set adjacent to a scrubbed white wooden floor, the large print would work best in a room with high ceilings, or as a single feature wall for added texture and warmth.

CRESTEd NICKEL WINE COOOLEER, £175 WWW.SWEETPEAANdWILLOW.COM

ARBORETUM WALLPAPER £59 PER 10M ROLL THE ROYAL COLLECTION FABRICS ANd WALLPAPERS WWW.dESIGNERSGUILd.COM

the trend The humble wine glass, the classic mantel clock, the cosy armchair; this month’s trend showcases traditional items with a contemporary finish

Onix Dining Table and Chair Set £2,300, Black Orchid Interiors www.blackorchidinteriors.co.uk

Deco Floor Cushion £775, Couturelab Africa www.couturelab.com

Silver Rim Champagne Flute and Wine Glass £36 each, Black Orchid Interiors www.blackorchidinteriors.co.uk

‘A Lotus Leaf’ designed by Yung Ho Chang for Officina Alessi £139, Alessi, www.alessi.com

Joella Gemstone Rectangular Box POA, Ralph Lauren Home www.ralphlaurenhome.co.uk

interiors

concierge comment

Farmed Beluga from £205, King’s Fine Food www.gift-library.net

Marlowe Floral Wall Covering in Sterling POA, Ralph Lauren Home www.ralphlaurenhome.co.uk

Swarovski Covered Skull £250, Charles Burnand www.charlesburnand.com

Isadora Platinum Pineapple Centrepiece from £247, William Yeoward Crystal www.gift-library.com

Coromandel Table £1,550, Fornasetti www.couturelab.com

Moooi Soft Clock in Gold £757, Occa Home www.occa-home.co.uk

The Albatross Chair POA, Soane, www.soane.co.uk

Northampton â&#x20AC;˘ England

Makers of the finest English shoes since 1879

U.K. 25 Royal Exchange, London EC3 New Shop - 92 Jermyn Street, London SW1 69 Jermyn Street, London SW1 20-21 Burlington Arcade, London W1 25 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3

FRANCE 14, Rue Chauveau-Lagarde, La Madeleine, 75008 Paris U.S.A. 7 West 56th Street, New York, NY 10019 www.crockettandjones.com

C&J Rex.indd 1

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TOp uK RETREATS bARcELOnA ................................................................. gAuchO

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A ROYAL TOAST

C Prepare for a supremely extravagant Jubilee weekend this June with an exceptional Royal Whisky from John Walker & Sons

orks will be popping up and down the country as Her Majesty The Queen marks her 60th year on the throne this June. As Brits nationwide mount the bunting and lavish the last layers of cream on their scones, the four-day weekend will fly by. But royal whisky distillery, by appointment to H.M. the Queen, John Walker & Sons has created a once-in-a-lifetime celebratory keepsake; a Diamond Jubilee Whisky. The specially crafted blend of rare malt and grain Scotch whiskies has been maturing since 1952

and is married in casks of Sandringham oak from the Queen’s estate. Bottled 60 years to the day since the Queen’s ascension to the throne, the diamond-shaped Baccarat crystal decanters stand on a crystal base with six radial legs to reflect the decades of the Queen’s enduring reign, adorned with Britannia silver. A pair of lead Cumbria Crystal glasses engraved by Philip Lawson Johnston are also included. Only 60 sets will be produced (61 including the bottle gifted to Her Majesty), available exclusively through John Walker & Sons and priced at £100,000 each. n

MINT THE HURLINGHAM CLUB & PARK, FULHAM, LONDON SW6

‘The Best Corporate Day Out’ - as voted by CITY AM Winner of ‘Best Sports Attraction’ - London Lifestyle Awards 2010 & 2011 This sensational three day event kicks off the weekend with a fabulous corporate day offering world class polo from six international teams, with fully inclusive hospitality plus the new ‘Veuve Clicquot at Hurlingham’ evening launch party. Enjoy a classic British summer day out; three polo matches, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, lunch at the iconic Hurlingham Club - the historic home of polo - a quintessential afternoon cream tea and to finish the day off, a rocking party with live music and guest DJ’s.

An exciting range of hospitality options to suit all budgets with prices from just £150 plus VAT per person. Book now for a remarkable experience. Telephone 0207 936 5284 or email rachel@cityevents.uk.com.

www.mintpolointhepark.com

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news

OFF TO THE COAST This April, the glorious vintage carriages of the British Pullman Orient-Express train will be whisking guests out of London for a weekend of fresh air on the beautiful Devon coast. Travelling in leisurely and luxurious style, guests can enjoy brunch and a three course lunch with wine served by liveried stewards, whilst watching the English countryside roll past the marquetry-framed windows. Originator George Mortimer Pullman recognised that his passengers would be accustomed to unrestrained luxury and comfort more than a century ago. In order to accommodate them, he issued orders to the finest craftsmen of the day to construct ‘Palaces on Wheels’. His instructions were honoured in every respect. WWW.ORIENT-EXPRESS.COM/UKTRAINS

BIG APPlE BREAK For city break enthusiasts looking to unwind in sleek and contemporary surroundings, the legendary Grand Hyatt of New York prides itself on being one of the most desirable hotels in Manhattan. The completion of its £83 million renovation was announced in December last year and marks a complete departure from the 1980’s glitzy Trump décor. The hotel’s complete top-to-bottom revamp includes an all-new

lobby and mezzanine, and 1,306 meticulously redesigned guestrooms, suites and ballrooms. The new aesthetic design of Grand Hyatt also includes 20 VIP suites, and a restaurant of nearly 6,000 square feet, including a lounge area and wine gallery. With floor-to-ceiling views of Lexington Avenue, the hotel initiates you straight into the heart of the city. WWW.GRANDHYATTNEWYORK.COM

A ROOM WITH A VIEW Located on the fringes of the Indian Ocean, the crystal clear waters and ivory beaches of Mauritius provide the most picturesque setting for a romantic getaway. The first hotel in the Indian Ocean to become a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, it continues, to this day, to set the standard in terms of luxury. The hotel offers just 84 intimate suites, staff outnumber guests by three to one, and the superb cuisine is overseen by awardwinning head chef Michel de Matteis. The hotel includes a main restaurant with panoramic views of the bay, a beachfront setting for lunch, and a ‘neutrality’ restaurant which nestles right on the ocean’s edge. With a mild tropical climate keeping weather warm all year round, gentle seas and safe beaches, it’s no wonder Mark Twain said that heaven was based on Mauritius.

jUBIlEE SHINDIG Leading country house and castle rental specialist Stately Escapes are offering unique garden party packages for those looking to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in great British style. The three properties, Inglethorpe Hall in Norfolk, Carlton Manor House in Yorkshire and a stunning 14th century castle in the Scottish Borders near Berwick, will all be dusting off the red, white and blue bunting so that guests can mark the occasion in stately splendour. WWW.STATElYESCAPES.CO.UK

WWW.BEACHCOMBERTOURS.CO.UK

Brought to you in association with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unsurpassable collection of more than 500 hotels spanning 70 countries, which offer an infinite variety of experiences

THE GREAT

BRITISH ESCAPE With crowds of sporting enthusiasts set to infiltrate the capital this summer, it may be time to plan a getaway. With a multitude of untapped rural hideaways on our doorstep, Kari Rosenberg explores some of the best British and Irish retreats, perfect for a weekend respite

English Countryside It was Jane Austen who said: “To sit in the shade on a fine day, and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.” If you are weary of fast-paced city hotel breaks, scheduled to the second with restaurant bookings and must-see attractions, then you must head to The Olde Rectory. A nucleus of all that is tranquil, here you’ll find the comfort and luxury of a boutique hotel, together with the space and privacy of home – with far more foliage, and one less doorbell. The Olde Rectory houses an ideal mix of cosy cottage and all the mod cons you could hope for to make it a comfortable stay with real charm; exposed beams juxtaposed with sumptuous beds and a plasma TV. Ideal for families, or just big kids, there was even a trampoline in the garden. Curled up in front of a real fire, we played American Rummy for the first time in years while enjoying the freshly baked cookies and delicious chocolate fudge cake provided by the concierge service upon our arrival. Set in a stunning, secluded conservation area on the

borders of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and directly opposite the 12th century village church, The Olde Rectory sits in 3.5 acres of grounds bordered by orchards and vast open countryside. There are many beautiful villages close by where you can find delicious farm food, such as fresh apple juice and chicken and duck eggs, amounting to some of the best breakfasts we’d had in a long time. Nearby Ledbury is a quaint little village with lovely interiors and gift boutiques. Our only complaint? We wished we had longer to enjoy all the things left to do, especially as we were provided with such a full list of suggestions, from walks to fishing. Tucked away down a quiet village lane, The Olde Rectory would also make a fine choice for a wedding venue, picturesque and charming, yet big enough to hold a relatively large crowd. A two-night weekend break in a cottage for two at The Olde Rectory starts at £325 and a two-night stay The Rectory, which sleeps 14, starts at £1,690. For more information visit www.premiercottages.co.uk or call 0844 800 8869

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Scottish Highlands As you approach the imposing Cameron House castle on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, its grand turrets protruding splendidly from the cotton-wool-like mist clinging to its base, it’s hard not to get swept away by the eerie Highland charm. With preconceived images of a majestic world of heather-dappled glens, Cameron House, the jewel in the De Vere Hotel Group’s crown, does not disappoint, and it is the perfect place to watch the theatre of the Scottish Highlands unfold; whether sailing over the glimmering lakes or simply relaxing with a 20-year old single malt in front of a roaring fire. Despite the blustering chill outside, the interior of the castle provides a cosy and inviting refuge from the elements. Mixing an elegant blend of contemporary design with a definite nod to the Loch’s wild and baronial past, grand antlered deer heads adorn the walls, while plush velvet Chesterfields are draped in a multitude of cheques and tartans. There’s always be someone on hand to impart the age-old tales of clansmen. Most of the rooms follow suit on the décor front; dark, cosy and sumptuous. Each Classic Room features monsoon showers, iPod docking stations, supremely comfortable beds with Egyptian cotton linen, the fluffiest of bathrobes and luxurious toiletries. The various suites offer the ultimate in Scottish luxury with a view to match, allowing guests to enjoy a traditional breakfast of poached eggs, smoked salmon and a dab of black pudding from the comfort of their bed, while absorbing the spectacular views. If you thought Scottish dining was all fried Mars bars and haggis, you’ll soon be blown away by the Michelinstarred culinary experience that awaits. Martin Wishart has created a fine dining restaurant at Cameron House, awarded a Michelin Star in October last year. As you relax in the elegant surroundings, the Scottish snug décor extending even to the eatery, head chef Stewart Boyles works away in his kitchen creating new ideas and signature dishes. Sample the delicious langoustine ravioli with braised endive and orange,

or the mosaique of foie gras, confit chicken, cèpe and ham in a walnut, sour cherry and raisin vinaigrette. For main courses, there are a number of fresh game options to sample, including a mouth-watering roast saddle of Borders Roe deer. For desert, the banana soufflé with caramel ice cream is worth a trip to the Highlands alone. If you have an interest in golf, after playing the ‘Wee Demon’ as a testing warm up, you stand ready to do battle with The Carrick. With nine holes on the high road and nine on the low, golf enthusiasts should prepare for an epic journey of spectacular greens and regal highland backdrops, scattered with bunkers and a breathtaking water hazard; the great loch itself. If you’re less enthused by a day on the green, the spa at Cameron House has been nominated Scotland’s best hotel spa for two years in a row. A visit to Scotland wouldn’t be complete without taking to the great outdoors. Rising early for a champagne breakfast as we cruised the lagoon – albeit huddled under a tartan throw – the view was stunning, despite the clime wavering slightly on the chilly side. Nature has been at play here for millions of years. A weekend of quad biking, sailing, and cruising on the loch should be enough for starters, but as well as sailing the still waters on a yacht, nature enthusiasts can choose from clay pigeon shooting, mountain biking, archery, fishing and tennis. Nearby towns just across the river offer knick knacks and irresistibly buttery shortbread, though there is little on the outskirts of the Cameron House grounds worth a visit, and especially not to dine. A tranquil getaway for a weekend of nature and nurture, the bonnie hills of Scotland offer just the right amount of breathing space. Kilts, of course, are optional. Nightly rates at Cameron House, Loch Lomond start from £145 per night for a standard room including breakfast For more information visit www.devere-hotels.co.uk

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Irish Farmlands “Late August, given heavy rain and sun For a full week, the blackberries would ripen. At first, just one, a glossy purple clot Among others, red, green, hard as a knot. You ate that first one and its flesh was sweet Like thickened wine: summer's blood was in it Leaving stains upon the tongue and lust for picking.” Irish poet Seamus Heaney illustrates the picking of blackberries as summer wanes, having grown up as a country boy on a farm in County Derry, Northern Ireland. If this makes you yearn to indulge in a similar experience (minus the disappointment as the berries turn sour) Ballymaloe House is a renowned Irish country house hotel which offers a stay-in cookery school. The only one in the world located in the middle of its own 100-acre organic farm, this is nestled in a 400-acre estate in rural East Cork, owned and run by the Allen family for more than 40 years. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the sprawling organic market gardens, orchards and greenhouses; a stimulating game of golf or tennis; afternoon tea by the pool or roaring fire; croquet on the lawn with a glass of champagne; or a lavish five-course meal followed by traditional music in the drawing room. Entering the little wooden gate into the courtyard of Ballymaloe Cookery School, your senses will be filled with the sound of tweeting birds and the aroma of the fresh produce being dished up, and demolished. Great for gastronomic aficionados, the Ballymaloe emphasis is on food; growing it, preparing it, cooking it, eating it and, crucially, enjoying it. For those more concerned about their liquor than their crops, there are also a number of wine courses on offer. Courses range from £96 per person for a half day course to £8,761 for a 12-week certificate course. Average rates for rooms at Ballymaloe House start from around £67 per person for a standard room, based on two people sharing and including breakfast. For more information visit www.cookingisfun.ie and www.ballymaloe.ie

The Welsh Valleys Once owned by Queen Victoria, there is something still remarkably regal about Ynyshir Hall; the Persian Ironwood tree the Monarch reputedly planted is still blooming in the fairytale gardens. Set between mountain and sea, great swathes of snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils, and bluebells pepper the woodland gardens. Amid the vibrant blaze of the azaleas and rhododendrons, the mountain backdrop gleams a deep indigo blue with skies almost a luminous pink. ‘Ynyshir’ means long island, and the hall has been on site for several centuries. The beautiful house has metamorphosed over the years, and although not a classic of any period, it has an eclectic charm of its own and the earliest parts of the house date back to the 15th century. Each of the beautifully appointed bedrooms is named after a famous artist who inspired both the design and finishing touches, while maintaining luxurious confort. Antique beds and furniture, redolent of a bygone age, are enhanced by rich colour schemes, pretty bathrooms and other delightfully artistic extra touches. Head chef Paul Croasdale makes full use of the superb natural bounty to create delicious gastronomy. Fresh fish, lobsters, crabs and shrimp are landed at nearby Aberystwyth and Borth. Wild salmon, venison and game are in abundance, the pork is all organic, the bacon hand cut for breakfast and the sausages made by the local butcher to Ynyshir’s own recipes. The free-range chicken and the beef are second to none, Welsh farmhouse cheese is the finest to be found anywhere, and, of course, tendersweet Welsh Mountain Lamb is always on the menu. For true tranquillity, surrounded and protected by a nature reserve, this Welsh getaway is sure to leave you feeling peaceful and revived, if not longing for the buzz and clamour of London’s streets. n Average nightly rates at Ynyshir Hall range from £315 to £550 per night for bed and breakfast, including dinner in one of the hotel restaurants (excluding drinks and VAT) For more information visit www.ynyshirhall.co.uk

arrive and revive

The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Almâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; we hiked to today was an insider tip from our host. The view from here of sun-kissed mountain peaks reaching for the sky is simply spellbinding. We feel totally free, nearly giddy with joy. We might even spend the night up here. Just like the dairy maid. For information about holidays in Austria, visit www.austria.info/treasures or call 0845 101 1818

THE HILLS ARE

ALIVE...

Gabriel O'Rorke visits the quaint Austrian town of Innsbruck, sampling delicious chocolates and finding out more about the centuries-old family trades still thriving in the snow-capped village

“W

alking to work is like walking through Disneyland but without the kitsch,” says Nicholas Boekdrukker from Innsbruck Tourism. We chat over hot chocolate and chocolate cake at Munding, a coffee shop that dates back to 1803 and has been run by the same family for six generations. Nicholas works in Innsbruck’s old town, its narrow, cobbled streets flanked by yellow, pink and green houses with terracotta roofs. Munding resides in one of these very buildings and easily takes the title of hot chocolate extraordinaire; served as a glass of hot frothy milk accompanied by a golf ball-sized lump of dark chocolate, a bowl of whipped cream and a jug of single cream, you then assemble the (delicious) components to taste. Known as the capital of the Alps, this small city is nestled in a valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. There are 130,000 inhabitants, and one in every five is a student. Located in western Austria, just half-an-hour from the German and Italian borders, Innsbruck (which means bridge over the river Inn) was the seat of the Hapsburg Empire from 1420 to 1665. I have been given the honour of having the ‘grand dame’

of the state of Tyrol, Elizabeth Grassmayr, as my tour guide for the day. Elizabeth is a bright-eyed, tiny-framed, blondehaired Innsbrucker in her 70s. She picks me up at nine in the morning, on the dot, and we zoom off in her little yellow Fiat. A guide for 26 years, this year marks Elizabeth and her husband’s 50th wedding anniversary. But neither of these landmarks match the fact that her family business, a bell foundry established in 1599 by the Grassmayrs, is not only the oldest family-run business in town but also in the whole of Austria. The foundry has a small shop and museum where you can see bells of all shapes and sizes, and learn about their role in celebrations, ceremonies and protecting animals in the mountains. For me, though, the highlight is the factory where you can watch bells being made. My visit coincided with the making of the biggest bell in Grassmayr history; weighing in at 15,000 kilos and commissioned by an Israeli Orthodox Church, it is taking two months to construct. Continuing on our tour, we peek inside one of the city’s 35 churches, before heading south to the Bergisel Ski Jump. Perched 250 metres above the city, this spaceshiplike construction was designed in 2002 by the Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. The stadium below hosted the

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opening ceremonies for the Olympic Winter Games in 1964 and 1976, and the first winter Youth Olympic Games which took place in January. Heading back into the city, we jump on the Nordkette railway (with extraterrestrial-looking stations also designed by Hadid), a train and connecting funicular which take passengers from the city centre to the snowy mountains in less than 20 minutes. There are nine ski resorts within easy reach of Innsbruck, so you can enjoy the rare combination of mountain and city life in one holiday. In the winter months, the mountains offer world-class skiing, and the summer makes possible hiking, mountain biking and paragliding. Returning to town, Elizabeth leads me to the heart of the old town, the famous Golden Roof. Made from six kilos of gold melted down with copper, the roof was commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I (the only emperor whose primary residence was in Innsbruck, not Vienna) in 1500 to mark the half millennium. Cafés with chairs covered in sheepskin rugs tempt passersby to sit and admire the surrounding Rococo and Baroque buildings. We resist, and visit Maximilian’s tomb instead, but en route a café called Kroll gets the better of us with its varieties of strudel; I go for rhubarb and strawberry, while Elizabeth opts for the cheese. There are lots of charming shops under the arches, selling everything from food to gifts and clothes. For a bit of sparkle, there's the Swarovski shop; for refreshments, Culinarium is a 38-year-old schnapps shop serving every flavour, including cranberry, blueberry and peach. It also has a wine cellar where a glass of the local tipple costs just €1.50. A few streets away, the same family own another shop; Speckladele, this time selling sausages, not schnapps. "There’s space for just one person," says Elizabeth as we arrive at the narrow doorway, and take turns to squeeze in next to the sausage-surrounded counter. For serious clothes shopping, head to Maria Theresien Strasse, a wide pedestrianised street next to the old town. The town hall is here too, with its ground-floor mall and top floor glass-windowed circular bar, aptly named 360 Degrees. One of the city's best restaurants, Das Schindler, is just opposite and its beef sashimi, and cod with purple potato gnocchi are especially good. In terms of where to stay, the oldest and most central hotel is the Goldener Adler. Situated opposite architectural landmark the Golden Roof, this traditional inn was built

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in 1390 and has an impressive guest book that includes Archduke Ferdinand II who brought a shooting party in 1573; Mozart who stayed with his father in 1773; and Goethe who visited twice, first in 1786 and again in 1790. Fully refurbished to mark an incredible 600th anniversary, the 33 rooms have one of three types of décor: some are alpine, some elegant with gilt-edged mirrors and others boast a simple Tyrolene style. The female staff wears dirndl-kleid, the traditional dress consisting of a white shirt with a corset, long skirt and apron. If historical hotels are not your thing, then a modern option within a stone’s throw of the old town is the Penz Hotel. Or, if you’d like something in-between the two, then the Grand Europa, the city’s only five-star hotel, dates back to 1869 but was refurbished in 2010 in a highly modern, Italian-style with swirly carpets (that continue up the walls) and Art Deco furniture. Whichever you choose, make sure you squeeze in supper at the Grand Europa’s Stüberl restaurant, which has two hats (the Austrian equivalent of Michelin stars) and a mixture of traditional and international cuisine. I had the wasabi salmon with caviar to start, followed by ‘schlutzkrapfen’ (ravioli stuffed with spinach and Both British Airways and Easyjet fly from London cheese) and finished with Gatwick to Innsbruck. Visitors are recommended a very indulgent chocolate to buy an Innsbruck Card (four hours costs pudding selection, consisting €31; 48 hours - €39; 72 hours - €45) as it gives of mousse, soufflé, roulade free public transport in the city, a return trip in and truffles. each of Innsbruck’s six mountain cable cars and To see the countryside entrance to sights and museums. surrounding Innsbruck (and attempt to work off the For more information about Innsbruck, visit the Tourist Board’s website, www.innsbruck.info chocolate) I head 40 minutes out of town to the Schwarz We recommend visiting Innsbruck in hotel. Founded in 1999, the September for the ‘Almabtrieb’. Cattle are hotel originally had just six driven down to the valley for winter, just rooms. Today it is still owned outside Innsbruck. The cows are decorated by the founding family but with elaborate, colourful head-dresses made there are 114 rooms, and from flowers and herbs, and spectators cheer it has become a renowned as they welcome the herdsmen and the ‘wellness’ hotel. I make a animals into the village. Celebrations include beeline for one of the seven music and local culinary specialties. swimming pools. n

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Destination...

BARCELONA Often labelled the cultural capital of Spain, Sharna Heir explores Barcelona’s luxurious hotels, its must-see exhibitions and breathtaking architecture

Where to stay:... ABaC Restaurant & Hotel Renowned for its Michelin-starred eatery, wine tasting and cooking courses, this hotel is located in northern Barcelona on the prestigious Avenida Tibidabo, only 20 minutes from the busy city centre. A peaceful haven comprising 15 ultra-luxurious suites, complete with Bang & Olufson electronics and Hermès toiletries, it is decorated in neutral cream hues, which are enhanced by velvet upholstered chaises longues. The boutique hotel offers personal service second to none. If you enjoy unwinding before bed, then you will certainly welcome their signature bathrooms, which integrate a chromotherapy jacuzzi, not to mention the Elemis spa and treatment rooms. www.abacbarcelona.com

Where to eat... W Hotel A place to see and be seen, the W BAR, located inside the W Hotel, offers signature cocktails alongside a delicious and casual bar menu from its famous WAVE restaurant. The in-house DJ sets a cool vibe while culinary offerings emulate Spanish tapas with an Arabic twist, setting them apart from the hundreds of tapas bars that pepper Barcelona’s busiest tourist areas. Expect light, healthy delights with a seafood focus, from Mediterranean flavour-infused burgers to organic steaks and fresh pasta. An ideal place to relax or mingle, it’s also a great spot to begin and end an evening. www.w-barcelona.com

From top to bottom: Tibidabo Church; cloister in The Museu Picasso; Magic Fountain of Montjuic; Gaudi in Park Guell; Stone Columns in Park Guell,;Monastery Montserrat

What to see:... Magic Fountain of Montjuic With so much art and culture to soak up, it is hard to cram everything into one visit. While queues form to see monasteries, cathedrals and Gaudi in Park Guell, why not visit the Magic Fountain of Montjuic? Displaying a mesmerising light display, it was constructed by Carles Buigas in 1929 for Barcelona’s International Exposition and can be found at the head of Avenida Maria Critina. No trip to Barcelona is complete without taking a stroll down La Rambla, one of the most famous boulevards in the world. Perfect for experiencing the Catalonian hustle and bustle, this thriving mile-long stretch, filled with fortunetellers, caged birds, dancers and musicians is sure to enthral you.

Don’’t miss:... Museu Picasso For those into their art history, Museu Picasso showcases an extensive collection of work from the renowned Spanish artist. The idea for the museum originated from Jaume Sabartes, Picasso’s lifelong friend and the permanent collection has more than 3,800 pieces, but the museum is not merely an overview of the artist’s work: it represents a thorough record of his life. Pay a visit to the landmarks that shaped his youth, by taking a stroll along Callee Reina Christina and Carrer de la Merce, where his family once lived. n

British Airways currently flies to Barcelona up to seven times per week from London City Airport. All flights include a generous free baggage allowance, complimentary onboard drinks and snacks and your choice of seating. For more information, visit www.ba.com/londoncitysummer

GO SOMEWHERE JUST AS HOT AS THE NORTHERN LINE. ONLY MORE PLEASANT. Take a break from London City Launching Menorca NEW (25.05.12) Also flying to Faro, Barcelona, Malaga, Ibiza and Mallorca* Book at ba.com/londoncitysummer To Fly. To Serve.

*Fares are for one-way economy (EuroTraveller) flights from London City Airport. All fares include all applicable taxes, fees and charges correct at 14/03/12. Fares are only available on selected flights, limited seats available. Fares are based on debit card payment, credit card charges apply. Advertised fares are available only on ba.com. Additional charges may apply if purchased through other BA outlets or travel agents. Bookings cannot be refunded but changes are permitted before the day of departure for ÂŁ60 per person per transaction, in addition to any difference in fare. Services operated by BA CityFlyer.

0821713 297x210 Bikini_master.indd 1

14/03/2012 09:45

Merry, in merry

Old England Rebecca Ross discovers great British spirits and a good drop of wine on a connoisseurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream weekend away in the countryside

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n the heart of the English countryside, in a quaint and quiet landscape as picturesque as a Constable painting, I am more than a little tipsy. With its gentle rolling hills and serene country lanes, Hereford seems a rather unlikely scene for my current state of merriment but this is a day on a farm with a difference. The farm in question is the home of Chase Distillery, one of the top producers of vodka and gin in these fair isles. We arrived a few hours earlier after a surprisingly short train journey from London and stepped into a crisp, fresh, sunny morning. We were to discover Chase Farm by tractor-trailer and bumpily bounced along as we explored 450 acres of neat rows of apple trees and muddy, harvested fields. This may have seemed a little unfathomable had it not been for farmer Harry Chase, and his passionate explanations of the crop rotation and soil structures which really underscored the idea of working with the land and respecting its seasonal changes and needs. Every element and ingredient that is used in Chase products is sourced within 15 miles of the distillery, from the juniper berries that flavour the gin, to the water used in the distillation process that comes from a natural on-site spring. The lifecycle of a vodka potato is truly a fascinating one. Taking ten days to progress from dirt to drink, each bottle contains up to 20 potatoes. Having investigated the machinery that harvests and sorts the spuds, we peeked into the cavernous chilled warehouse where crates upon crates of potatoes loom in towers as the vegetable awaits its final transformation. Mashing, fermenting, concentrating and distilling follow, as the liquid becomes more and more refined in a series of copper vessels before being distilled in the 70ft copper tower. The use of the seemingly antiquated copper instruments is another example of the ‘only the best’ ethos as this metal gives a much smoother, naturally sweet distillate. By the time we had seen the bottling plant, we were more than ready to try the product. I’m not sure if it was understanding the complexities that created the spirits or the long anticipation of actually drinking the alcohol, but by the time we sat down at the industrially rustic yet chic bar and had the first sip, I was pretty sure it was the best I’d ever drunk. Indeed, it was voted Best Vodka at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, so it seems more than a few people agree with me. Chase vodka is made to be drunk neat, and for someone who usually buries the alcohol in gallons of sweet mixer, I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy the subtle taste. The drinks lesson continued, interspersed with sips of

connoisseur

various spirits to prove each point. We were also encouraged to sample experimental new concoctions, including apple vodkas, lethally delicious raspberry liqueur, light yet punchy sloe berry gins and, my favourite, marmalade vodka. After a quick transfer to the centre of historic Cheltenham we arrived at the grand Hotel du Vin. The imposing pillars and traditional yet chic décor at first prompted me to feel like I should endeavour for a shade more sobriety, but by the time I was shown to my room, aptly named Bordeaux, I knew I was in a place that appreciated a good drink. From the cupcake on my nightstand to the enormous and invitingly soft double bed, the room provided the perfect pit-stop for recuperation. Having luxuriated in the beautiful roll-top bath, I emerged feeling like a new person. Refreshed and revived, I proceeded to discover further the boutique hotel’s shrine to viticulture, including a chandelier made of wine glasses, a wine list extensive in scope and impressive in quality, and a sommelier whose eyes gleamed with excitement as he explained the differences between two apparently not-so-similar Merlots. While usually it seems to follow that good wine is brought in to complement good food, at Hotel Du Vin the wine is already so good that the food simply must be delicious in order to keep pace. And delicious it was. Further afterdinner exploration ended with me relaxing in an opulently decorated, smoke-filled cigar gazebo. Bright and early the next morning, a relaxing massage courtesy of the Hotel Du Vin Spa worked the last vestiges of alcohol from my system and I left the delights of the countryside behind, with a deeper appreciation of the drink in my glass and the hope that marmalade vodka could be counted as two of my five-a-day. n

Connoisseur’s CoCktail MasterClass at Hotel du Vin, CHeltenHaM From £335 per couple including breakfast (with Bloody Mary), one hour CHASE Cocktail Masterclass and canapés, three-course Bistro dinner and detox spa treatment (choose from a 30-minute Express Facial, Aromatherapy Massage, Salt Scrub or Oriental Scalp Massage). Book online at www.hotelduvin.com or call 01242 588450 For fares to Cheltenham from London Paddington, visit www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk or call 08457 000125

Mayfair

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c o c kta i l b a r | lo u n g e | r e s ta u r a n t | c h e f â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s d i n i n g r o o m | a r t g a l l e r y | l a c a v e 1 0 l a n c a s h i r e c o u r t n e w b o n d s t r e e t lo n d o n w 1 s 1 e y + 4 4 ( 0 ) 2 0 7 5 1 8 9 3 8 8 w w w. m e w s o f m ay fa i r . c o m

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Our Recommendations...

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SUGAR, SPICE AND ALL THINGS NICE SUGAR Lola’s Cupcakes and Lactofree have joined forces to create this delicious Lactofree Strawberry Delight cupcake. Featuring a soft strawberry and vanilla sponge base and a scrumptious whip of strawberry butter cream, the heavenly treat is topped off with nothing other than the juicy red berry itself. WWW.LOLAS-KITCHEN.CO.UK

SPICE

the distance, every vista offering a different take on the London skyline and scattered rooftops. Try the seriously delicious bar snacks, including foi gras on brioche and seared scallops. The Champagne lounge can be hired from Monday to Saturday for private functions.

The South Devon Chilli Farm, established in 2003, was the first farm in the UK devoted entirely to growing chillies, low in calories and widely thought to speed up metabolisms. This honeycomb chilli chocolate, also available in orange, peppermint, fruit & spice and coffeebean, offers just the right balance of sweet and savoury.

VERTIO 42, TOWER 42, 25 OLD BROAD STREET

WWW.SDCF.CO.UK

RAISING THE BAR For the finest views of London, while sipping on the very best bubbly, Vertigo 42 is certainly worth a visit. Gary Rhodes’ stunning reservation-only Champagne sky bar offers 39 types of sparkling treats by the bottle, glass or magnum, along with the best of British cocktails. Located on the 42nd level of Tower 42, vast glass walls separate guests from the wonders of the capital stretching into

WWW.VERTIGO42.CO.UK

ALL THINGS NICE If you’re looking for the wow factor, head over to Patch. The lively bar offers a bespoke list of cocktails mixed with classic drinks, including an indulgent Millionaire Punchbowl with real gold flakes (pictured below). PATCH, 58-60 CARTER LANE

CITY BAR HOPPING With two fabulous new bars just launched, the City really is the best place for a beverage. Babble, a short walk from Liverpool Street station, is spread over three floors and with plush boudoirstyle surroundings, it boasts unrivalled cocktails, individual service, great food and a perfect place to mingle late into the night. Formerly the

Balls Brothers venue, the newly opened Minster Exchange in Minster Court offers a mixture of gourmet restaurant and intimate wine bars, blending traditional British décor and dishes. There has never been a better time to party in the City. BABBLE, OXENDON STREET MINSTER EXCHANGE, MINCING LANE

connoisseur food & drink

MeAt and GReet Kari Rosenberg samples some naughty but nice comfort food at the new bar at Hawskmoor, where there’s not a steak in sight, while Richard Brown visits Gaucho to sample Argentina’s finest cuisine Gaucho O2

Hawksmoor Bar, Spitalfields

Within the surreal confines of the world’s largest tent, the space-age nature of London’s most famous steakhouse feels more than at home. Spread over three floors and decked out in Gaucho’s signature cowhide and shiny chrome finishes, the 350-cover restaurant is a glistening ode to black and white. I visited as part of the Gaucho experience; a package that couples lunch, dinner or wine tasting at the restaurant with tickets to Gaucho’s VIP private box within the O2 arena. Seated at the enviable spot between the lower and upper tiers, Gaucho’s box not only enhances your view of the main stage and central floor area, but also provides you with comfortable, unimpaired seats and access to a well stocked bar and snack menu. Capable of accommodating 24 guests, the space acts as an exclusive private lounge from which to enjoy a show before being whisked to, or indeed from, Gaucho itself. Back at the restaurant, we chose to begin our evening meal with some of Gaucho’s lighter starter options. the warm arepa bread that comprised the base of the chicken salad added an enjoyable sweetness, while the salmon ceviche, cured in citrus juices and accompanied with roasted pepper sauce, was a fresh, tangy option. Next, we shared the Gaucho sampler (£89.95): a selection of four steaks that together totalling 1.2 kilograms of prime Argentinean beef. Ordered mediumrare, each steak was cooked to perfection, with the fillet proving the best for texture and the rib eye winning, just, for taste. Barely able to move by the time dessert rolled around, we somehow managed to see off a dulce de leche tart, Don Pedro ice cream and chocolate and hazelnut truffles. Arriving in a cocktail glass amid whiskey and walnuts, the Don Pedro was a little too fragrant for me. No fault, however, could be found with the superb, coconut-heavy tart. Anyone with a dislike of overly-rich food best stay clear of the truffles – it’s like finishing your meal with a box of chocolates. With Gaucho’s reputation for delivering to your plate some of the finest steaks in London, you’ll arrive at the restaurant with certain expectations. Choose to visit Gaucho O2 via the Gaucho experience and even the most demanding of these will be fulfilled.

You no doubt will already be familiar with Hawksmoor. Renowned City-wide for its unctuous hunks of meat, it has already secured a number of ‘best steaks in London’ notches on its chargrilled-onthe-outside-medium-in-the-middle bed-post. And it has just opened a brand new bar, in the former strip-club basement space under its main Spitalfields restaurant. the bar has a more glamorous feel than anything else in the Hawksmoor fold, though, mixing Art Deco and smart diner with a slight industrial Victorian decor. the short cocktail list of ten drinks comprises a mixture of sweet and tart concoctions, ideal for unwinding after a hard day at the office. My guest and I sampled the fabulously fruity Hannah Wooley’s Punch, an almost lethal blend of claret, cognac, lemon, sugar and nutmeg, made to the earliest published punch recipe in 1672. the small food menu is, surprisingly, 100 per cent steak-free, and devoid of any delicately light nibbles. Instead, Hawksmoor has presumed its guests might indulge in one too many of its delicious tipples and has gallantly stepped in to provide some carb-heavy delights to soak up any excess liquor. After one or two (or three) helpings of the fabulous punch, we were hankering for almost every dish on the menu. We opted for the Short-Rib French Dip, soft caramelised meat topped with sweet onions in a toasted brioche roll, along with a lobster version, dripping in garlic butter and a rich and creamy Béarnaise sauce. the Poutine made a delicious, if not slightly unnecessary accompaniment, which for those not in the know, means, quite simply, ‘chips and gravy’. topped with crispy braised chicken or oxtail and smothered in cheese, it was a comforting taste of childhood and surprisingly full of meaty flavour. Needing some greenery to balance out the stodge, the Smashed Cucumber Salad was fresh and crunchy, mixed with chilli, onion and sesame oil. But already making diet-starts-tomorrow vows, we were coerced by our charming waiter into sampling the Lemon Meringue Pie, which turned out, as he promised, to be the best we’d ever tasted. Despite the entertainment genre shift, there’s no denying the new bar at Hawksmoor still provides something of a guilty pleasure. n

www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk

Hawksmoor Spitalfields Bar, 157 Commercial Street, London E1 6BJ 020 7426 4856, www.thehawksmoor.com

THE DirEcTory Whether you want to dine or to drink, to purchase gorgeous gifts and stylish outfits, to keep fit or to be pampered, the city is home to a wealth of services and amenities

Collection

Boodles

Boodles 2 & 3 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange EC3V 3LQ 020 7283 7284 www.boodles.com Bulgari 15 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange EC3V 3LQ 020 7283 4580 www.bulgari.com ernest Jones Unit 3, Plantation Place, EC3M 3BD 020 7929 4491 www.ernestjones.co.uk goldsmiths 186-190 Bishopsgate, EC2M 4NR 020 7283 6622 www.goldsmiths.co.uk hermes 12-13 Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LL 020 7626 7794 www.hermes.com links of london 27 Broadgate Circle, EC2M 2QS 020 7628 9668 www.linksoflondon.com montBlanc 10-11 The Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LL 020 7929 4200 www.montblanc.com omega 8 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange EC3V 3LQ 020 7929 7706 www.omegawatches.com

Concierge

Grange City Hotel

Calibre

Ted’s Grooming Room

chequers Beauty salon 53-54 Leadenhall Market, EC3V 1LT 020 7283 3047 www.chequersbeauty.co.uk

BarBer express ltd 14 Devonshire Row, EC2M 4RH 020 7377 5485 www.barberexpress.co.uk

elysium spa 21 Old Broad Street, EC2N 1HQ 020 7256 8624 elysiumfortytwo.co.uk

city health & fitness cluB london Grange City Hotel, 8-10 Cooper’s Row EC3N 2BQ www.cityhealthclub.co.uk

essential therapy 39 Whitefriars Street, EC4Y 8BH 020 7353 1895 www.essential-therapie.co.uk optix 175 Bishopsgate, EC2M 3WA 020 7628 0330 www.optixuk.com

fetter BarBers ltd 144 Fetter Lane, EC3M 4AJ 020 7702 3553 www.fetterbarbers.com f flittner 86 Moorgate, EC2M 6SE 020 7606 4750 www.fflittner.com

smilepod Bank studio Leadenhall Market, off Fenchurch Street 18-20 Cullum Street, EC3M 7JJ 020 7836 6866 www.smilepod.co.uk

london city runner 10 Ludgate Broadway, EC4V 6DU 020 7329 1955 www.londoncityrunner.com

the harley medical group Marc House, Great Street, EC4V 2BB 0800 022 3385 www.harleymedical.co.uk

nicholson & griffin 74 Cannon Street, EC4N 6AE 020 7489 8551 www.nicholsonandgriffin.com

the private clinic 107 Cheapside, EC2V 6DN 0800 599 9911 www.theprivateclinic.co.uk

ted’s grooming room 120 Cheapside, EC2V 6DR 020 7367 9932 www.tedsgroomingroom.com

virgin active 5 Old Broad Street, EC2N 1DW 0845 270 4080 www.virginactive.co.uk

tower Bridge health & fitness cluB 47 Prescot Street, E1 8GP 020 7959 5050

Connoisseur

Madison restaurant

1901 at andaz hotel 40 Liverpool Street, EC2M 7QN 020 7618 7000 www.andazdining.com anohka IndIan RestauRant st. Pauls 4 Burgon, EC4V 5DR 020 7236 3999 www.anokha-indian.com BRasseRIe Blanc 60 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 8HP 020 7710 9440 www.brasserieblanc.com chamBeRlaIn’s RestauRants 23-25 Leadenhall Market, EC3V 1LR 020 7648 8690 www.chamberlains.org chez GeRaRd 14 Trinity Square, EC3N 4AA 020 7213 0540 www.chezgerard.co.uk cInnamon kItchen & anIse 9 Devonshire Square, EC2M 4YF 020 7626 5000 www.cinnamon-kitchen.com FoRa RestauRant 34-36 Houndsditch, EC3A 7DB 020 7626 2222 www.forarestaurants.co.uk GattIs RestauRant 1 Finsbury Avenue, EC2M 2PF 020 7247 1051 www.gattisrestaurant.co.uk GRaPPolo 1 Plough Place, EC4A 1DE

Financial Services

High Timber restaurant

020 7842 0510 www.grappololondon.com haz RestauRant Plantation Place, 6 Mincing Lane, EC3M 3BD 020 7929 3173 www.hazrestaurant.co.uk hIGh tImBeR RestauRant 8 High Timber Street, EC4V 3PA 020 7248 1777 www.hightimber.com madIson RestauRant 2 New Change, EC4M 9AD 020 8305 3088 www.madisonlondon.net

assocIatIon oF BRItIsh InsuReRs 51-55 Gresham Street, EC2V 7HQ www.abi.org.uk assocIatIon oF Investment comPanIes 21-24 Chiswell Street, EC1Y 4YY www.theaic.co.uk BaRclays 29-33 Wormwood Street, EC2M 1RP 0845 755 5555 www.barclays.co.uk Bank oF scotland 33 Old Broad Street, EC2N 1HW 020 7506 0402 www.bankofscotland.co.uk

mInt leaF lounGe 12 Angel Court, EC2R 7HB 020 7600 0992 www.mintleaflounge.com

BRItIsh BankeRs’ assocIatIon 105-108 Old Broad Street, EC2N 1EX www.bba.org.uk

mumBaI squaRe 7 Middlesex Street, E1 7AA 020 7247 6461 www.mumbaisquare.co.uk

hsBc - cIty oF london BRanch 60 Queen Victoria Street , EC4N 4TR 08457 404 404 www.hsbc.co.uk

PIccolIno RestauRant 11 Exchange Square, EC2A 2BR 020 7375 2568 www.individualrestaurantcompanyplc.co.uk

lloyds tsB 25 Gresham Street, EC2V 7HN 0800 032 3953 www.lloydstsb.com

RestauRant sauteRelle The Courtyard, Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LQ 020 7618 2483 www.sauterelle-restaurant.co.uk

natWest 216 Bishopsgate, E7 9SH 0845 600 2803 www.natwest.com

thaI squaRe cIty 136 Minories, EC3N 1NT 020 7680 1111 www.thaisquare.net

noRtheRn Rock 51 Moorgate, EC2R 6PB 020 7638 0039 www.nothernrock.co.uk

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LONDON HOmes&

PROPERTY ShowcaSing the fineSt homeS in your area

c o v e r i n g c a n a ry w h a r f, D o c K L a n D S , wa P P i n g & t h e c i t y

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We ask the experts

ProPerty showcase The Chic Look by Occa Home www.occa-home.co.uk

InterestIng prospects

Orion Point, Isle of Dogs E14

Hanover House, Canary Wharf E14

A well-proportioned eigth floor apartment with side river views. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, semi open-plan kitchen reception room with access to a private balcony, porterage and a car parking space. Approximately 73 sq m (793 sq ft).

A lovely apartment in the Canary Riverside development. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room opening onto a balcony, kitchen, dining room, 24 hour concierge and private parking. Approximately 116 sq m (1257 sq ft).

Leasehold Guide Price: £375,000

Leasehold

Canary Wharf Sales KnightFrank.co.uk/canary-wharf

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Queen of the Isle, Isle of Dogs, E14

Guide Price: £795,000

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

City Harbour, Isle of Dogs E14

A well-presented apartment in close proximity to Canary Wharf. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, second bedroom, family bathroom, large open-plan kitchen reception room and a balcony. Approximately 68 sq m (741 ft).

A well-presented apartment with stunning dock views. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, further bedroom and bathroom, reception room with blacony, porterage and a secure parking space. Approximately 80 sq m (904 sq ft).

Leasehold

Guide Price: £315,000

Guide Price: £500,000

Canary Wharf Sales KnightFrank.co.uk/canary-wharf

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

CW Sales APRIL 12 Ad 1 - 14 March 2012 - 18910

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

19/03/2012 11:36:49

Plate House, Isle of Dogs E14

Berglen Court, Limehouse E14

A beautifully presented apartment in the Burrell's Wharf development. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, reception room with sloping glass ceiling, kitchen, large hallway and parking for one car. Approximately 62 sq m (673 sq ft).

An apartment set in the heart of Limehouse with views of the basin. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room with semi open-plan kitchen and balcony, porterage and a secure parking space. Approximately 76 sq m (825 sq ft).

Share of Freehold

Leasehold

Guide Price: £295,000

Guide Price: £500,000

Canary Wharf Sales KnightFrank.co.uk/canary-wharf

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Basin Approach, Limehouse E14

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Hanover House, Canary Wharf E14

A well-proportioned apartment set in the highly sought after area of Limehouse. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room with balcony, separate kitchen, 24 hour concierge and a private garage. Approximately 105 sq m (1132 sq ft).

A luxury apartment in the Canary Riverside development. 3 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, reception room, dining area, kitchen, guest cloakroom, concierge and private parking. Approximately 166 sq m (1789 sq ft).

Leasehold

Guide Price: £595,000

Guide Price: £1,195,000

Canary Wharf Sales KnightFrank.co.uk/canary-wharf

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

CW Sales APRIL 12 CW and City Ad 2 - 14 March 2012 - 18922

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

19/03/2012 11:37:52

Prusoms Island, Wapping E1W

Newell Street, Limehouse E14

On the top two floors of a converted warehouse, a characterful flat. Bedroom with en suite bathroom, shower room, reception room, semi open-plan kitchen, roof terrace and parking for one car. Approximately 75 sq m (811 sq ft).

A charming house. Master bedroom with ensure bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, shower with dual access, part double height reception room, kitchen, conservatory, garden and off-street parking. Approximately 186 sq m (2,002 sq ft).

Leasehold

Freehold

Guide Price: £550,000

Guide Price: £945,000

Wapping Sales KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

New Crane Wharf, Wapping E1W

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

The Listed Building, Wapping E1W

A stylish and unique warehouse conversion. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, open-plan kitchen, utility cupboard, double height ceilings, 24 hour porterage, car parking space. Approximately 103 sq m (1110 sq ft).

Spacious flat within a listed building. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, reception room, open-plan kitchen, walnut wood flooring and underfloor heating throughout, porterage and parking for one car. Approximately 71 sq m (774 sq ft).

Leasehold

Guide Price: £615,000

Guide Price: £395,000

Wapping Sales KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Wap Sales APRIL 12 City/CW - 13 March 2012 - 18877

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

19/03/2012 11:31:51

Cormorant Lodge, St Katharine Docks E1W Impressive three bedroom penthouse

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7480 6848

With breath taking views over St Katharine Docks, Tower Bridge and the River Thames, this is an exceptional property. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, large terrace, air conditioning, 24 hour concierge and an underground car parking space. Approximately 263 sq m (2,832 sq ft). £2,500 per week

(ASP157229)

CW & CITY April 2012 p.1 - 19 March 2012 - 19042

19/03/2012 16:48:03

Thomas More Street, Wapping E1W

Breezers Court, Wapping E1W

A beautifully presented house in west Wapping, refurbished to a high standard. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room with basin views, good size kitchen, guest cloakroom, garage, communal parking area and private garden.

A large apartment in this warehouse conversion close to Tower Hill and St Katharine Docks. 2 bedrooms, 2 lovely bathroom suites, reception room, modern open-plan kitchen, high ceilings and exposed brick work.

Furnished

£895 per week

£600 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Dundee Court, Wapping E1W

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Osprey Court, St Katharine Docks E1W

A beautifully presented apartment on the fourth floor of this popular development. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, dual aspect reception room with river views, modern open-plan kitchen, hard wooden floors, 24 hour porterage and car parking.

A lovely apartment to rent in the City Quay development. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, 2 balconies offering fantastic views of the Docks, good storage, wooden floors, 24 hour porterage and a car parking space.

Furnished

£575 per week

£850 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Wap LETS - 19 March 2012 - 19051

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

19/03/2012 16:52:20

Benbow House, Southbank SE1

Halcyon Wharf, Wapping E1W

A modern apartment set in this prestigious development. Master bedroom with dressing room and en suite bathroom, second bedroom and bathroom, reception room, modern kitchen and a balcony offering spectacular views.

A modern apartment. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, reception room, fully fitted open-plan kitchen, wooden floors throughout and a porter. The apartment is conveniently located within close proximity of St Katharine Docks.

Furnished

£875 per week

£475 per week

City Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7606 1560 gary.hall@knightfrank.com

NEO Bankside, Southbank SE1

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

St Pancras Chambers, Euston NW1

A stylish fourth floor apartment in the outstanding NEO Bankside. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, further bedroom, additional bathroom with shower, large reception room, open-plan kitchen and a 24 hour concierge service.

A duplex apartment set within this magnificent Grade I Listed development. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, reception room, fully fitted kitchen, wooden floors, exposed beams, a concierge service and use of the facilities in the adjacent 5 star hotel.

Furnished

£1,150 per week

£720 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

City Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Wap LETS CITY April 2012 p.3 - 19 March 2012 - 19056

020 7606 1560 gary.hall@knightfrank.com

20/03/2012 09:48:52

home to st. Pauls, big ben and now... knight frank

It gives us great pleasure to announce the arrival of another world famous name to the Thames when Knight Frank Riverside relocates to Albion Riverside, Battersea, in early 2012. Our reputation for global reach and unparalleled local knowledge is second to none on the river, so if you are planning on buying, selling or letting, we are the number one agent for riverside property. Make sure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the boat... contact Matthew Smith on 0203 597 7670 or visit us online at knightfrank.co.uk/riverside

Knight KnightFrank Frank

Flagstaff House, St George Wharf SW8 Excellent River Views

A sunny west facing 3 bedroom apartment with excellent river Thames views in St George Wharf. The apartment benefits from floor to ceiling windows and generous living space with 3 terraces and views east and west of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic river. The development benefits from 24 hour security and concierge service. Approximately 106sqm and 1141sqft. Leasehold Guide Price: ÂŁ1,495,000 (RVR070213)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Riverside Riverside@knightfrank.com 020 3597 7670

1 2

savills.co.uk

JACANA COURT, e1w

STEPNEY GREEN, e1

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø concierge ø parking space ø balcony ø 109 sq m (1,168 sq ft)

3 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 5 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø garden ø 2 parking spaces ø 255 sq m (2,740 sq ft)

Guide £1.175 million Leasehold

Guide £1.75 million Freehold

3 4

Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800

FALCONET COURT, e1w

CHINA COURT, e1w

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø parking space ø juliette balcony ø 86 sq m (923 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø protected parking ø private gated development ø 89 sq m (957 sq ft)

Guide £499,995 Leasehold

Guide £499,950 Leasehold

Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800

1 2

savills.co.uk

SHOOTERS HILL, se3

PORT EAST, e14

3 reception rooms ø 2 kitchens / 2 dining rooms ø 6 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø parking ø 398 sq m (4,286 sq ft)

Reception room ø open plan kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø protected parking ø concierge ø 195 sq m (2,097 sq ft)

Guide £2.2 million Freehold

Guide £1.25 million Leasehold

3 4

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

DISCOVERY DOCK, e14

BOARDWALK, e14

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony ø concierge ø gym ø 89 sq m (957 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony ø parking space ø concierge ø 75 sq m (805 sq ft)

Guide £545,000 Leasehold

Guide £450,000 Leasehold

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

LEFT-HAND

Hamptons City Office Sales. 020 7717 5435 city@hamptons-int.com

Queens Quay – EC4 £350,000 Leasehold

Gowers Walk, E1 £415,000 Leasehold

This well-presented 1 bedroom flat is situated on the first floor of a highly soughtafter riverside development, it has a day concierge and unofficial roof terrace.

This beautifully presented 1 bedroom flat is set on the 3rd floor of Chandlery House, an extremely popular warehouse conversion located close to Aldgate East.

Savage Gardens, EC3 £425,000 Leasehold

North Tenter Street, E1 £674,950 Leasehold

This larger-than-average 1 bedroom apartment is beautifully presented with great entertaining space, and is superbly located in the Square Mile.

Hamptons are delighted to offer a stunningly refurbished pair of duplex apartments within a restored period building at the edge of the City.

Deal Street, E1 £775,000 Leasehold

Princelet Street, E1 £2,250,000 Freehold

This stunningly presented 2 bedroom apartment is set over the top 2 floors of a former warehouse in the popular Spitalfields area, with a study which accesses a roof terrace.

The well-presented 4 to 5 bedroom family house is set over 5 floors in the ever-popular Spitalfields area, and has a delightful south-facing garden leading onto a studio.

From their first steps to the first visit to the grandchildren, Hamptons International know what makes a family home. The comfort it will provide. The memories it will hold. We see beyond the bricks and mortar to help you find somewhere that’s, well, home.

RIGHT-HAND LEF

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Sales. 020 7717 5489 towerbridge@hamptons-int.com

Butlers & Colonial Wharf, SE1 £925,000 Leasehold

Knot House, SE1 £895,000 Leasehold

A third floor,1001 sq ft two bedroom warehouse conversion with roof terrace and views of the City Skyline including the Shard of Glass. Porter and Parking.

An 1076 sq ft, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom triplex apartment with two South facing terraces, views of the Shard of Glass, Poggenpohl kitchen/dining and porterage.

Vesta Court, SE1 £795,000 Leasehold

Tea Trade Wharf, SE1 £1,650,000 Leasehold

A 1238 sq/ft two bedroom, two bathroom live work unit within 150m from Bermondsey Street with underground parking and a 684 sq/ft south facing garden.

A stunning two bedroom duplex penthouse apartment within a popular river front development which benefits from partial City views, parking and 24hr concierge.

Neo Bankside, SE1 £750,000 Leasehold

Butlers Wharf, SE1 £965,000 Share of Freehold

A stunning 14th floor one bedroom apartment in the prestigious Neo Bankside development with far reaching views including Big Ben and the Millennium Wheel. Communal gymnasium and 24 hour porter.

A riverfront 936 sq ft one bedroom apartment on the 7th floor of the landmark Butlers Wharf building, with views of Tower Bridge, concierge and underground parking.

It’s important to make time for the things you love. At Hamptons International we take all the strain out of managing your move. Leaving you free to enjoy the finer things in life, safe in the knowledge that everything’s being taken care of.

AND LEFT-HAND

Hamptons City Office Lettings. 020 7717 5437 citylettings@hamptons-int.com

Wheler Street E1, £395 per week

Cloth Fair EC1, £1,250 per week

A fantastic one bedroom flat on the second floor presented in excellent condition. Close to both Shoreditch and Spitalfields. Available furnished.

A very unique house presented in immaculate condition in this historic street overlooking the Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great.

Ludgate Hill EC4, £675 per week

North Tenter Street E1, £410 per week

A two bedroom apartment on the first floor of this beautiful period conversion, moments from St Pauls Cathedral and the Thames. Available furnished.

Brand new high specification one bedroom, first floor apartment on the edge of the City. Located only a few minutes walk from Aldgate and Tower Hill Station.

Leyden Street E1, £460 per week

Eagle Street WC1, £395 per week

A superbly presented one bedroom apartment on the 3rd floor of this popular Spitalfields development with a south aspect and City views.

Newly refurbished high specification first floor studio apartment located moments from Holborn underground Station. Available furnished

The Hamptons International team always go further to meet your personal property needs, whatever they may be. Over 97% of our clients say they would use us again or recommend us to others. Let us show you why.

RIGHT-HAND

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Lettings. 020 7717 5491 towerbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

Butlers Wharf, SE1 £950 per week

Hermitage Waterside, E1W £895 per week

A stunning two double bedroom apartment arranged within a prestigious warehouse conversion, boasting two large double bedrooms and kitchen diner.

Beautifully presented three bedroom mid-terrace situated just off of St Katherine’s Dock with views of Hermitage Basin, a private garden and integrated garage.

Whitehouse Apartments, SE1 £650 per week

Pages Walk, SE1 £525 per week

Two bedroom refurbished apartment with views towards the London Eye situated in this prestigious development with 24 hour concierge, gym and swimming pool.

Fabulous two bedroom mid terrace with modern separate kitchen/dining room, living room, contemporary bathroom and a decked rear garden. Ideal for a couple.

Antonine Heights, SE1 £475per week

Tennis Court, SE1 £450 per week

A well presented two double bedroom apartment arranged on the 6th floor of this recently constructed development benefiting a bright reception room with access to balcony.

A well presented one bedroom apartment in a modern block with Juliet balcony. Situated in the heart of the vibrant Borough Market only 400yrds from London Bridge Tube Station.

Renting a property is no reason to accept anything less than the perfect home. It’s still your personal oasis. Albeit for a shorter timeframe. That said nearly all our tenants renew their contracts. Proof that we know how to make people feel right at home.

homes & property

HOT PROPERTY: Enviable Elegance

This palatial penthouse occupies the sixth and seventh floor of Shearwater Court, affording farreaching views over the City of London and St Katharine’s Dock. The property has four stunning bedrooms, each with an en-suite and two with bespoke dressing rooms, while the entertaining space is both substantial and stylish. Guests can socialise in the lavish yet cosy top floor reception

area with its striking Burr walnut back drop, relax in the cinema room with its 60” television and stateof-the art audio and projection facilities, or descend the attractive glass staircase to a large, openplan lounge, dining room and kitchen – a beautiful and bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows, retractable sliding doors, limestone tiles and bespoke stone worktops. The penthouse has an attractive

and rare amount of outside space and with summer approaching, the seven terraces and three balconies will prove a huge draw to prospective buyers. The vibrant marina of St Katharineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dock offers a range of bars and restaurants as well as a weekly food market, and the property also offers two underground car parking spaces for those wishing to explore further afield. n

City Quay, E1 ÂŁ6.5M LEASEHOLD & SHARE OF FREEHOLD Savills 020 7456 6800

www.savills.co.uk 117

homes & property

development showcase City Living The low mainTenance and energy efficienT aparTmenTs in This new developmenT provide a sound invesTmenT opporTuniTy, Thanks To The close proximiTy To greenwich, says Lauren romano

ith Olympic fever gripping the capital ahead of this summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Games, investing in an environmentally-sound pad at this impressive Lewisham Central Park development offers an attractive investment prospect, thanks to the proximity to Greenwich Park, which is set to host 19 Olympic and Paralympic events. Opening in Lewisham later this month, this first class development from housing provider Family Mosaic will form an integral part of the wider regeneration of the surrounding area, and provide 49 new homes in the initial phase. The apartment blocks are finished to the highest specification, making the Central Park development especially attractive to

prospective home buyers looking to put down roots in South East London. The real stand-out feature of this innovative and conscientious new-build is the attention paid to energy efficiency, which means significantly reduced heating bills for residents and minimal environmental impact. Photovoltaic solar panels are fitted to the roof to generate electricity by day, which is used to power the lifts and communal lighting; green roofing provides an environmentally attractive habitat for wildlife and a special district heating system supplies heating and hot water to all homes, helping to reduce carbon emissions. The attractive, low maintenance one, two and three bedroom apartments are kitted out to an exceptional standard and include a fully-fitted kitchen

complete with integrated oven, hob, extractor fan, fridge freezer and washing machine, meaning they are ready to move into. For additional convenience, residents also have the option to purchase stylish and contemporary tailored furniture collections by David Phillips. The neutrally decorated interiors offer a functional, open-plan style space to suit the demands of modern living, with a comfortably-sized, practically arranged living and dining room set up. Floor to ceiling windows increase the feeling of light, and semi-glazed balconies maximise space and provide a valuable and sought-after outside sun trap, with views out over the city. A concierge service adds to Central Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long list of desirable features, while other essential and practical requirements are met, including designated parking spaces, which are available to purchase with selected apartments as well as ample cycle parking. Central Park will be a valuable addition to this area of London and will play a fundamental role in the continued regeneration of the Lewisham area, by providing nearly 1,200 brand new apartments over the next six years. As well as benefitting from the explosion of recently opened bars, restaurants and leisure facilities found in the nearby Olympic village, a series of new green spaces will offer residents plentiful outside breathing space to enjoy the approaching summer months. Designated park areas will be incorporated into the development as well as electric car charging points and a range of handy on-site leisure facilities, all within walking distance of national rail and the Docklands Light railway stations. n

Star PrOPErtY The focal point of these attractive, well-proportioned apartments is undoubtedly the brilliant, panoramic views from the balcony. Offering a semi-sheltered outdoor space, leading out from the floor-to-ceiling living room patio doors, the balcony maximises the amount of light filtering into the apartment and offers a scenic and attractive backdrop. A minimalist, yet comfortable feel pervades throughout, thanks to the addition of carefully selected pieces of furniture designed by David Phillips. In the bedroom, another full-length window opens up the cosy space, which is tastefully finished with sumptuous carpets, white walls and stylish light fittings. This contemporary feel continues in the beige tiled en-suite, which features ultra-modern chrome fixtures and fittings and a large, walk-in shower. Prices start from ÂŁ179,950 020 7089 3917 www.centralparkliving.co.uk

119

homes & property

ProPerty ShowcaSe Artful Design

A spectacular riverside penthouse apartment has become available in the landmark Montevetro Building, dubbed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the glass mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, in Battersea. The show-stopping glass-walled apartment is split over two levels, with the palatial upper floor, laid out specifically for entertaining and enjoying the stunning views of the river from the vast floor to ceiling windows found at both ends of the room. The reception room includes a strikingly designed and well-equipped contemporary kitchen, with a glowing central unit that can be set to change colour if desired. On the lower level, the two bedrooms have fitted wardrobes and yet more large windows which open out onto a separate private balcony. The apartment also benefits from 24 hour security, a concierge service and leisure facilities, including a tennis court. The property is also being sold with two designated parking spaces. n

Montevetro Building, Sw11 ÂŁ1.9M Share of freehold Knight Frank Riverside www.knightfrank.co.uk/Riverside

020 3597 7670 120

homes & property

DEVELOPMENT FOCUS Space and Favour

Among those wanting escapism in the form of a spacious and contemporary family home further afield, Latitude is a popular development in Ipswich, from the prestigious house builder Charles Church. With four to six bedrooms, the unique designer homes are perfect for the lifestyle and requirements of any expanding family and can accommodate lavish entertaining. The houses are situated in a secluded semi-circular boulevard providing residents and guests with their own private gardens in which to enjoy lazy summer days and quiet evenings. The garden areas and terraces seamlessly link to the ground floor living space and once inside, the true beauty of the open-plan layout reveals itself, with innovatively stylish décor and a luxurious finish, creating a perfect environment to entertain guests. Modern design and simple, clean lines, together with floor-toceiling glass in the living room reflects the high specification and detail which makes these homes comfortable and has earned Charles Church a favourable reputation. Situated just 15 minutes from the heart of Ipswich and its railway

station, Latitude combines the appeal of peaceful surroundings with access to the local shops, restaurants and amenities of Ipswich. The development itself is adjacent to a country park, offering magnificent walks and plenty of fresh air on the doorstep. Such an array of features and access to amenities also ensures these properties possess fantastic rental potential. n

ALNESbOUrN CrESCENT, IP3 £369,950 - £439,950 freehold Charles Church Homes www.charleschurch.com

0844 248 1166 121

homes & property

State of the market JON BYERS, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ANDERSON ROSE IN SHAD THAMES, SHARES HIS EXPERIENCE OF THE LONDON PROPERTY MARKET

THE markET THEN aND NOW

hen writing a piece like this, it is so easy to just waffle on about the macro-economics of the property market, making reference to one’s own monthon-month increases in new properties on the market versus buyers registering. Although that provides some indication of which direction property values are going, it can be more indicative of how the business is performing against its competitors. So I thought you might find it more interesting if I told you about my observations of how the market is now compared to when I began working in the City and Docklands in June 1999. 122

Back then I had no previous experience in an estate agency but, looking back, I was so lucky to start then because it was a joyous and very rare period of high supply and high demand. It was hectic though and, although business opportunities were flooding in, the challenge was to convert instructions into sales before the register became overwhelming and chaos ensued. Between university and then, I had worked for two years as a maître d’ which trained me how to maintain a high level of service and get the job done whilst working under extreme pressure. Consider the last time you had a bad experience in an expensive restaurant and it is really very similar to when estate agents disappoint their customers. Now, think of the best meal you have ever enjoyed. Did you begrudge the price and do you long to return? Well that is still how I approach the business of helping people move home and it is always a brilliant feeling when my customers return without condition. Fast forward thirteen years and the need to deliver good results on time and professionally is more important now than ever, but the approach has adapted to suit the current market. There is relative low supply and relative low demand and, if in 1999 a good agent was defined by their ability to work efficiently under pressure, then today I believe that our approach must be proactive and creative. Back then, we may well have been registering ten new buyers a day but maybe only three of them went on to purchase something. Today we would be pleased to register three – but all three will buy. Because there is a low supply of property, there is a good chance that we won’t be able to immediately satisfy the buyers’ requirements, so a good agent must go and find the right property and broker the sale without it ever coming to the market. I know this area extremely well and I am fortunate to know many people who live here. Some would sell if the right opportunity came up, so I seek to put those right opportunities in front of them and facilitate a sale. A market comprises a product, a seller and a buyer and the fun part of my job is bringing all three together. n Anderson Rose 020 3324 0188 www.andersonrose.co.uk

UNIQUE HOMES, UNIQUE SERVICE, UNIQUE PEOPLE A t a i l o r e d s e r v i c e f r o m L a n g f o rd R u s s e l l f o r d i s t i n c t i ve a n d e x c l u s i ve h o m e s

CHARTERS MEAD, CHISLEHURST, KENT BR7 Just a quarter of a mile from Chislehurst Station and occupying a south facing plot of approximately half an acre with a fantastic swimming pool with retractable roof, this “Love” built home has been extended to an impressive 3480 sq ft. Currently 5/6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, an orangery, gym and study with planning consent for a further ground floor extension.

£1,950,000

LAURENS, FARNBOROUgH PARK, KENT BR6 A beautiful home located within the inner enclaves of the exclusive Farnborough Park private Estate. Laurens has a sophisticated and stylish interior offering over 5,500 square feet of lavish accommodation over two levels and unusually for this location, occupies a southerly plot of around three quarters of an acre.

£2,650,000

UNIQUE is a Specialist Division of Langford Russell

Unique at Langford Russell Chislehurst Office 13 High Street, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5AB Tel 020 8378 1222 Email enquiries@uniquepropertiesuk.com

Offices Also At: Beckenham & Bromley

www.uniqueproper tiesuk.com www.langfordr ussell.co.uk

Lettings. 020 3324 0190 www.andersonrose.co.uk

Luna House, SE16 £625 per week A stunning two bedroom apartment with views along The Thames to Tower Bridge and the City.

Providence Square, SE1 £600 per week Located to the upper floor and benefitting from river views, a two bedroom apartment with roof terrace.

1 Hare Marsh, E2 £360 per week A modern one bedroom apartment with a balcony and secure underground parking on the edge of the City.

River View Heights, SE16 £675 per week A fantastic two double bedroom apartment with a large balcony overlooking the river and London skyline.

Like Us on

Sales. 020 3324 0188 www.andersonrose.co.uk

Norfolk House, EC4V ÂŁ2,600,000 Share of Freehold A rare opportunity to secure an outstanding property which is located upon the sunny north bank of the Thames. This exclusive address comprises just twelve apartments and provides spectacular views across the City of London waterfront.

Street Lane, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 ÂŁ1,350,000 Freehold Located in the pretty village of Ardingly, Tinkers Croft provides wonderful family accommodation and an acre of mature garden. Throughout the house there are great amounts of natural light and it is highly practical for children.

Follow Jon Byers on

@AndersonRose1

London's Finest Properties

LETTINGS

Michigan Building, Canary Wharf, E14

SALES

City Peninsula, Greenwich, SE10

Ontario Tower, Fairmont Avenue, E14

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

• One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 3rd floor • Balcony • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. Blackwall DLR

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 3rd Floor • Balcony • Concierge Service • Nr. North Greenwich St.

• 6th floor One bedroom/one bathroom • Exceptional architecture, design and spec • Full height windows • 24 hr concierge/residents leisure facilities • Moments from DLR and Canary Wharf

• 22nd floor • One bedroom/One bathroom • Highly prestigious development • Exceptional specification • Central Canary Wharf location • Moments from transport links

£360.00 per week

£370.00 per week

£345,000

£379,950

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

Torrent Lodge, Greenwich High Rd, SE10 • Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 5th floor • Balcony • Nr. Greenwich DLR

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E14

• One bedroom/one bathroom • 15th floor • Stunning far reaching views • River facing • 24hr Concierge • Moments from DLR and Jubilee line

Cobalt Point, Lanterns Court, E14

• Large one bedroom/one bathroom • 6th floor apartment • Secure underground parking • Attractive views to Canary Wharf • Exceptional transport links • Includes new furniture pack

£375.00 per week

£435.00 per week

£395,000

£414,999

Turner House, Canary Wharf, E14

Marina Heights, Basin Approach, E14

Chelsea Bridge Wharf, SW8

Sugar House, Leman Street, E1

£460.00 per week

£575.00 per week

• One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 9th floor • Balcony • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. South Quay DLR

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Furnishing Negotiable • 2nd floor • Resident Health and Fitness Ctr • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. South Quay DLR

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 2nd floor • Balcony • Secure Underground Parking • Nr. Limehouse DLR

• Stunning riverside apartment with balcony • One bedroom/One bathroom • 24 hour concierge service • Walking distance to Sloane Sq/ Kings Road • Secure underground parking

£485,000

• Immaculate1st floor ex-show apartment • Two bedroom/two bathroom • Interior designed • Exceptional specification • Secure underground parking • Moments from the City and tube

£1,080,000

Sales | Lettings | Corporate Services | Property Management www.liferesidential.co.uk

Central London 020 7582 7989

West London 020 8896 9990

Finchley 020 8446 9524

Docklands 020 7476 0125

Deptford & Greenwich 020 8692 2244

UNIQUE HOMES, UNIQUE SERVICE, UNIQUE PEOPLE A t a i l o r e d s e r v i c e f r o m L a n g f o rd R u s s e l l f o r d i s t i n c t i ve a n d e x c l u s i ve h o m e s

Keston Court, Keston, BR2 - ÂŁ4,850,000 Freehold Central London 14 miles - The City/West End within 20 minutes

Over 10,000 square feet of unadulterated pure luxury. Town or Country living? Why compromise when you could have it all? A modern day architectural masterpiece without equal, envelops luxuriously finished contemporary interiors of the highest order.

UNIQUE is a Specialist Division of Langford Russell

Unique at Langford Russell Chislehurst Office 13 High Street, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5AB Tel 020 8378 1222 Email enquiries@uniquepropertiesuk.com

Offices Also At: Beckenham & Bromley

www.uniquepropertiesuk.com www.langfordrussell.co.uk

Times Square, Tower Hill E1 8GF 2 Double bedroom apartment within this sought after modern development. Porterage. Positioned close to Tower Hill. Rented out until 09/06/13. 3rd Floor. Balcony. Must be viewed.

Price: ÂŁ529,995

Free Trade Wharf, Wapping E1W 3ES This 2 double bedroom, 5th floor, 2 bathroom apartment offers a terrace with superb River Thames views. This 24-hour porterage development benefits from a communal gym, swimming pool, sauna, hot tub, pool and gardens. 2 secure parking spaces. Situated close to Limehouse Station (DLR and National Rail services), Shadwell Station (Overground and DLR services) and Wapping Station (Overground services).

Price: ÂŁ549,995

Osprey Court Star Place, Wapping E1W 1AG Rarely available, this 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment has fantastic views over the Historic St Katharine’s Dock. The modern and sought after development benefits from 24 concierge. Both the fitted kitchen and reception have great water views. Situated within easy access to the City & Canary Wharf. Tower Hill is close by. Secure parking.

Price: £850 pw

Waterman Way, Wapping E1W 2QW Ornamental canal views from this delightful 2 double bedroom house which is situated within easy access to the City. Fitted kitchen & dining area. Reception. First floor bathroom. Garden. Garage. ‘Waitrose’ supermarket is nearby. Close to Docklands light railway and Wapping station.

Price: £500 pw

IEstatE

agEnts stranger things have happened

DOCKLANDS OFFICE NOW OPEN

New Docklands Office Opening Soon We need properties NOW! Record levels of buyers and tenants registering

We won’t be beaten on service or value! ; ; ; ; ; ;

Fantastic Commission Rates for all new clients! All Properties Listed on EVERY major portal & website Mobile website, text and email alerts Members of ARLA, NAEA, NALS and SAFEagent State of the art software linking offices with ‘client log in’ Bespoke, Independent Mortgage Service to get you moving!

For more information: docklands@bushells.com Call us NOW on Twitter 020 3515 0011 Or follow us on @bushells docklands@bushells.com In association with:

Bushells.com Dedicated Mortgage Line: 020 7933 9744 or email: bushells@johncharcol.co.uk YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY DEBT SECURED ON IT

Bushells.com DOCKLANDS – DULWICH – FULHAM – CLAPHAM – HAMMERSMITH –BATTERSEA – ACTON

Duplex penthouse AvAilAble for olYMpiC short let

3 beDrooM - 3 bAthrooM (2 en-suite) 1,400sq ft AnD 600sq ft terrACe GlAss wAlls floor to CeilinG, wAll to wAll with pAnorAMiC views seCure unDerGrounD pArkinG on-site GYMnAsiuM AnD ConCierGe • Surrounded by the award-winning thameS barrier Park Convenient trAvel with on-site Dlr to strAtforD AnD bAnk (just 2 Mins wAlk to plAtforM) • 4 StoPS from Stratford • 5 minuteS from london City airPort • 6 minuteS from exCel london

if requireD ADjACent (iDentiCAl) penthouse MAY Also be AvAilAble postCoDe: e16 2sb

enquiries to: 2012penthouse@gmail.com

LawrenceWard_CityMag_April2012 16/03/2012 16:41 Page 1

GREENWICH CREEKSIDE

Inspirational apartment living in Greenwich • 1, 2 & 3 bedroom homes with a high internal specification and optional parking* • Close to the heart of maritime Greenwich • Cutty Sark DLR & Greenwich mainline station under 10 minutes walk; rapid access to Canary Wharf or London Bridge • 24 hour concierge service and exemplary Customer Service with 24/7 support

Prices from £255,000† Sales centre & show apartment open daily. Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm • Sun 11am - 5pm 133 Creek Road | Greenwich | SE8 3BU (opposite the development)

Tel: 0800

www.greenwichcreekside.com

883 8639

creekside.sales@telfordhomes.plc.uk

0800 883 8639 or (out-of-hours) 0800 032 0077 *Please ask for details regarding parking. †Price correct at time of going to press. Internal photographs of show apartments at Greenwich Creekside. External CGI of the development & photograph of actual view from Cavatina Heights.

Selling Agents:

020 8104 1111

TELEGRAPH HILL SE14

An exceptional new arrival An exclusive collection of nine exquisite 4/5 bedroom London homes considerately designed to reflect the Victorian style architecture prevalent to the Telegraph Hill Conservation Area. This, combined with elegant modern interiors, ensures St Catherine’s Place is the perfect address to call home. Prices from £975,000

SALeS SuiTe And SHow Home now oPen! open 5 days a week Thurs-mon 10am-5pm Emmerson House, St Catherine’s Place, Jerningham Road, Telegraph Hill, London SE14 5NJ (SAT NAV REF) Book your appointment on 020 3326 1550 www.stcatherinesplace.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Computer generated image of St Catherine’s Place is indicative only.

the smart way to BUY or SELL your property

A service defined by discretion and dedication that will save you time and money. His extensive experience in property consultancy takes the pain and effort out of the buying and selling process, and any problems that you would usually encounter, become his problems and not yours. After all, achieving the best possible outcome in anything is all about finding someone who can do the job better than you.

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

Your ready-made

GRAND DESIGN WELCOME TO LATITUDE

A UNIQUE DESIGN FOCUSED DEVELOPMENT

PART EXCHANGE AVAILABLE**

These wonderful new homes in Ipswich encompass cutting-edge design, aspirational detail and magnificent vistas. Embracing modern living, a seamless ease is created, providing the perfect backdrop for busy family life, entertaining, quiet evenings in and lazy summer days in the garden. Latitude is situated just 15 minutes from Ipswich rail station, which provides a direct train to London Liverpool Street station in just over an hour. The development also benefits from the A12 being close by, giving easy access to London and the M25. Charles Church brings you these fantastic 5 bedroom detached houses, built with design in mind.

5 bedroom designs from £369,950

LATITUDE, ALNESBOURN CRESCENT,IPSWICH, SUFFOLK, IP3 9UX Marketing Suite and Showhome open: Thursday to Sunday 10.30am-5.30 pm, Monday 11.30am-5.30pm To find out more, visit: www.charleschurch.com Please call: 01473 272449

Quote: GRAND DESIGN to receive £20,000 discount and a free gift* Imagery shows showhome at Latitude, Ipswich. * When you reserve, not available in conjunction with any other offer. ** Subject to terms and conditions, please see sales executive for more information.

homes & property

expert comment SALES:

LETTINGS:

The market steadies

The impact of the jobs market on the rental sector

DONNA SWYERS, PARTNER AND OFFICE HEAD AT

TOM PEEL, ASSOCIATE AT KNIGHT FRANK IN CANARY

KNIGHT FRANK IN CANARY WHARF, COMMENTS ON THE

WHARF, COMMENTS ON THE TRENDS IN THE

TRENDS IN THE RESIDENTIAL SALES MARKET

RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS MARKET

According to data from Nationwide house prices dipped by 0.2 per cent in the first month of the year, meaning that prices are now just 0.6 per cent higher than in January 2011. Although separate figures from Halifax paint a slightly different picture, showing a 0.6 per cent rise in house prices in January, this data shows that house prices are down 1.6 per cent year-onyear. While the details may differ, the overall impression is one of a stalled market, with prices losing little ground but making little progress. The exception to the rule is prime central London, where prices hit new record highs in January. There are a number of policy changes coming up which could affect the market; for example, the ending of the stamp duty exemption for first time buyers next month could cause a surge of activity before the cut-off date on 24 March. Meanwhile the chancellor is preparing for the Budget. There has been much talk among the Liberal Democrats about a possible annual tax on properties worth more than £2m, but there are questions about how such a scheme would be run. There are also issues around how to make sure any such rule would avoid penalising income-poor families who have seen the value of their family home rise above the threshold. UK house prices are currently being supported by record low interest rates, which have cut repayments for many borrowers. Looking ahead, rates show little sign of rising this year. This was further emphasized this month as the Bank of England opted to pump an additional £50bn into the economy via quantitative easing.

There are signs that the weakness in the City of London jobs market, where new employment vacancies are down 51 per cent year-on-year at the current time (according to Morgan McKinley), is beginning to feed through to the residential rental sector. With the banking sector expected to deliver much lower bonuses in the first quarter of 2012 compared to last year, tenants who are building deposits for eventual entry to the housing market are looking to reduce their rental costs in the interim. Additionally, rental budgets for corporate tenants - that is employees who have been relocated to London by their firms - have been cut back by anything up to 15 per cent over the past 12 months. The other main driver helping to push rents lower is affordability. Tenants saw rents rise 27 per cent in the two years to September 2011. Yet at best, disposable income only rose by around eight per cent over the same period and therefore landlords are having to accept that continually rising rents are not a fixture of the market. In terms of sub-market performance, across central London there is a particular shortage of prospective tenants looking in the mid-market, a definition which varies depending on the area, but is typically around £800 or £1,000 to £2,000 a week. Activity has been strongest at the lower end of the market and to a lesser extent, the top end. The sub-£1,000 a week bracket has seen more demand recently as people have been tightening their budgets. Our view looking ahead is that rents will begin to rise slightly from the spring onwards.

Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 www.knightfrank.com/canary-wharf

Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9955 www.knightfrank.co.uk/canary-wharf

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TO BREAK THE RULES, YOU MUST FIRST MASTER THEM. THE WATCH THAT BROKE ALL THE RULES, REBORN FOR 2012. IN 1972, THE ORIGINAL ROYAL OAK SHOCKED THE WATCHMAKING WORLD AS THE FIRST HAUTE HOROLOGY SPORTS WATCH TO TREAT STEEL AS A PRECIOUS METAL. TODAY THE NEW ROYAL OAK COLLECTION STAYS TRUE TO THE SAME PRINCIPLES SET OUT IN LE BRASSUS ALL THOSE YEARS AGO: “BODY OF STEEL, HEART OF GOLD”. OVER 130 YEARS OF HOROLOGICAL CRAFT, MASTERY AND EXQUISITE DETAILING LIE INSIDE THIS ICONIC MODERN EXTERIOR; THE ALWAYS PURPOSEFUL ROYAL OAK ARCHITECTURE NOW EXPRESSED IN 41MM DIAMETER. THE AUDEMARS PIGUET ROYAL OAK: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS.

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08.03.12 08:10