The City Magazine January 2016 by Runwild Media Group

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LO NDO LO NDO N NE N W NEYO W RYOR K MI K LAN MI LAN MU N MU I CN HI CMAN H MAN C H ECST H EEST R EGRLASG G LASG OW OW

issue no.

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 6

contents on the cover 22 Behind Closed Doors Nick Savage opens the doors to some of London’s most exclusive Members’ Clubs

24 On the Rocks Rande Gerber talks hangover-proof drinking and making his own tequila with best friend George Clooney 29 First Dates Channel 4 Casanova, Fred Sirieix, gives advice on what not to do on a first date 42 Extreme Watchmaking The disruptive approach and phenomenal growth of Richard Mille

COVER STORY: to p g e a r

Sophisticated staples from your friends on Savile Row

65 Pocket Rockets This month, revamp your outfit with a choice of powerful pocket squares 101 Bear Necessities Face-to-face with the world’s largest land carnivore, courtesy of a Polar bear safari

104 Quest for the West Rowena Marella-Daw goes West to discover Monument Valley, the home of Hollywood’s cowboy country

p54

REGULARS CITY LIFE: 16 The Edit The commodities and consumables raising our interest rates this month 18 The Social The City Magazine samples the Square Mile’s latest gastronomical offerings from the four corners of the globe

COLLECTION: 39 Monkey Business Jewellers are going ape for the Chinese Year of the Monkey 41 Perfect Timing A look at some of the most complicated new timepieces that money can buy

STYLE: 48 Her The 80s are back, and colour-blocking is in, we break down four of the season’s biggest trends 62 Him Stand out from the crowd with some of The City Magazine’s favourite coats and loungewear

104

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

OUT OF OFFICE: Vinyl Revival Vinyl is back. David Taylor explores the reason why, with the help of industry experts 90 Arts & Interiors: Stefan Belhau Welcome to another exciting artist that should appear on your agenda 96 Travel: Langhe Overdue Chris Allsop travels to Piedmont, Italy, to sample the best of the Langhe wine region

HOMES AND PROPERTY: 118 Knight Frank’s Aldgate Arrival Thom Atkins explains why the new Aldgate branch is on its way to becoming the estate agent’s biggest volume office

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issue no.

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 6

Contributors

E d i t o r - in-Chi ef Lesley Ellwood

E d i tor Richard Brown

D E P UT Y Editor tiffany eastland

M o t o r i n g Editor Matthew Carter

C o l l ect i on Editor Annabel Harrison

S ta f f Writer MELISSA EMERSON

E d i t o r i al int ern

Chris Allsop

Liam Bird

Rowena Marella-Daw

Chri s i s a Bath-based freelance

Liam is a freelance motoring

Rowena specialises in luxury

journali st and photograph er

writer based in the South

travel and lifestyle and has

w ho mostly writ es about

Shropshire Marches, spending

been contributing to high-

travel , film and ch eese. Turn

his time in worryingly expensive

end publications around the

to page 101 for an up close

cars for a number of regional

world since 2002. For The City

and p ersonal encount er with

lifestyle magazines. This month,

Magazine, Rowena goes stateside

Earth’s largest land mammal ,

Liam sits behind the wheel of

with her husband in a Quest for

the effortlessly heavy-hitting

the West (p. 104).

on a Polar Bear Safari .

Bentley Continental GTC V8 S (p. 84).

david taylor

Se n i o r Des ign er LISA WADE

B RAND C ONS ISTEN CY Laddawan Juhong

Ge ne r a l Manag er Fiona Fenwick

P r o duc tion Hugo Wheatley Oscar Viney Alice Ford Jamie Steele

P r oper t y D irec to r Samantha Ratcliffe

E x ecu t i ve D irecto r Sophie Roberts

M a n a g i n g D ir ecto r Eren Ellwood

Ventile Parka, £1,000, Timothy Everest, timothyeverest.co.uk

Heritage Goggles, £115, Bentley Collection, shop.bentleymotors.com

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly remastered Blu-ray, £8.99, Sergio Leone, amazon.co.uk

Published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5AX T: 020 7987 4320 rwmg.co.uk

Jennifer Mason

Lauren Romano

Mark Westall

Jennifer started out in luxury

Lauren is editor of Vantage

Mark is editor-in-chief of online

fashion marketing and has since

magazine, and writes mostly

art and culture magazine FAD,

worked as a writer in the UK and

about food, travel and culture.

creative director of FAD Agency

Members of the Professional Publishers Association

Dubai, specialising in motoring,

For this issue, she drinks tequila

and our regular source of

travel, lifestyle and local features.

on the rocks with nightlife

information about interesting

On page 82, Jennifer drives the

entrepreneur Rande Gerber and

artists. Turn to page 90 for a look

responsibility for unsolicited

Jaguar C-X75, the motoring villian of

best friend George Clooney (p. 24).

into the work of the colourful

submissions, manuscripts and

the latest Bond blockbuster (p. 82).

Stefan Behlau.

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept

photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscriptions A free online subscription service is available for The City Magazine.

Gold ‘Leaper’ cufflinks, £35, Jaguar Land Rover, shop.jaguar.co.uk

Anejo Tequila 750ml, £77.99, Casamigos, selfridges.com

‘Wearing Ellsworth’s Hat All Wrong’, acrylic on canvas, BANZAI by Stefan Behlau, pmam.org

Visit the subscriptions page on our website: rwmg.co.uk/subscribe

THE BEST WAY TO PREDICT THE FUTURE IS TO CREATE IT.

The new BMW 7 Series

The Ultimate Driving Machine

THE NEW BMW 7 SERIES. DRIVING LUXURY.

After nearly a decade of development, the new BMW 7 Series ushers in entirely new levels of engineering and technology. From its revolutionary multifunction Display Key, which illustrates vital information about the car and can possess the impressive power of Remote Control Parking*, to BMW Gesture Control and Touch Command, providing control at your fingertips whether you are driving or being driven. Such pioneering innovations are set to shape BMW cars to come. To experience the most innovative car in its class, please contact your local BMW Centre to arrange an exclusive test driveâ&#x20AC; at www.bmw.co.uk/london

Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 7 Series range: Urban 24.8-51.4mpg (11.4-5.5l/100km). Extra Urban 45.6-67.3mpg (6.2-4.2l/100km). Combined 34.9-60.1mpg (8.1-4.7l/100km). CO2 emissions 189-124g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

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16/11/2015 16:15

issue no.

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 6

f r o m t h e E D I TOR

f all the predictions you’ll hear pertaining to the next 12 months – that by the end of the year we’ll all be whizzing around on hoverboards having baked in our hottest ever summer during which England will have won the European Championships – one prophecy

that remains a safe bet is that the popularity of dating apps will continue to soar. Industry leader, Tinder, has more than 50 million members and was last year

valued by the Bank of America Merrill Lynch at £900 million. Its users, on average, check their accounts 11 times a day for a total of 90 minutes. Interestingly, a man will ‘ like’ a woman’s profile 46 per cent of the time. Women, in contrast, swipe right on only 14 per cent of occasions. The City Magazine has eschewed the New-Year-New-You nonsense this January. Instead of pointing you in the direction of the gym, we thought we’d delve into the world of 21st century dating. If you’re single, the best thing about returning to London after a Christmas spent in the sticks, is hurling yourself back in the dating game (or so our single friends tell us). So, who better to talk to than the face of First Dates Mr Fred Sirieix. As maître d’ of the smash-hit Channel 4 series, Fred’s romantic wonderings have earned him cult-like status. The magnetic Frenchman provides some words of wisdom on page 29, before five leading ladies share their worst dating experiences, and offer their own advice to any would-be suitors, in the pages that follow. When Tindering, it turns out, women will swipe right (or ‘ like’) 74 per cent of the time if the man on their screen has well-groomed facial hair. Learn how to keep your boat race in tip top shape on page 66. Happy hunting and Happy New Year.

Richard brown, editor

Other titles within the RWMG portfolio

A website. A mindset. A l ifest yle. On the cover Shot for The City Magazine by Alexander Beer, alexanderbeerphotography.com

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City Life

JANUARY 2016

power tower THE FIRST LOOK AT 1 UNDERSHAFT, THE BUILDING SET TO BECOME THE cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest Eric Parry Architects has unveiled plans for a 73-storey development at 1 Undershaft. The new structure, which has been commissioned by Singapore-based Aroland Holdings, will rise to 309.6 metres, towering over a new cluster of skyscrapers in the Square Mile. The proposal also details plans for a large public square at the base of the tower and a free public viewing gallery, education centre and restaurant at the top. This follows the announced planning approval of 22 Bishopsgate, the 62-storey reworked Pinnacle skyscraper (which can be glimpsed here, behind 1 Undershaft), which was abandoned four years ago. A planning application for 1 Undershaft will be submitted to the City of London Corporation in the New Year. ericparryarchitects.co.uk

the TV

the BOOKS on display

1 Nomad Cookbook, £45.50, Ten Speed Press, bookdepository.com

t i d e e th

ife] [City L

mab onsu c d n nth es a oditi es this mo m m o The c erest rat nt our i

les ra

ising

2 Tom Kundig: Works, £40, Princeton Architectural Press, amazon.co.uk

If you thought you were doing well with full HD, think again. The LG OLED 4K TV resolution is four times that of full HD, giving brilliant clarity and vivid detail. This new standard of definition is bound to amaze, even up close, and when combined with OLED technology, delivers the purest blacks, most brilliant colours and the clearest images. And its form is just as impressive as its function, with intuitive design which creates a floating screen effect. When combined with quality sound by Harman/Kardon™ and a display that offers perfect viewing angles, you’ll find little reason to leave the house. OLED 4K TV, £2,499, LG, johnlewis.com

Liquid Intelligence, £22.54, WW Norton & Co, bookdepository.com

the PLANE

flight of fancy Poppi, a forward-thinking concept airline is putting major carriers to shame, with a unique approach to air travel. Created by Teague, an air travel design firm, Poppi is proposing a number of changes to benefit jetsetters and airlines. To speed up the boarding process by 70 per cent, When 007 faced rugged conditions in the Austrian Alps in Spectre, he swapped brogues for boots, Poppi suggests replacing bulky overhead bins with and legendary ones at that. Danner’s Mountain thin compartments for laptops and jackets. It also Light II hiking boots feature solid stitch down supports the use of vending machines over beverage construction, Vibram® Kletterlift outsoles carts, and sponsored middle seats with perks for and full-leather support. Mountain Light II, £79.99, those who book. Finally, for the movie buffs, a cinema Danner, stran.co.uk class with large screens and blacked-out lights. Fingerscrossed a real-life airline gets wind of this. teague.com

the boot

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE

The Hovercraft Split from Jones Snowboards is ideal for backcountry chutes, bowls and tree runs, thanks to its nimble, squat shape, which provides the float of a board much longer. A short running length also makes it lighter on your legs skinning up. With a blunt nose and directional rocker, you’ll find yourself surfing on the soft, as the stiff tail and Mellow Magne-Traction keeps you stable through any unexpected icy snow. jonessnowboards.com

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| NEWS |

the wish list

the boat Sail away Should you be in the market for a 39m super-yacht, you might like to know that Y.CO has listed Cinderella IV for sale. The sleek-as-silk sloop was designed by Bill Tripp’s Tripp Design and constructed by renown yacht builders Vitters in 2009. With a carbon composite hull and lifting keel, the boat was built to perform under sail. With four state rooms, sheltered external guest areas and a fully panoramic saloon, it also lets its eight inhabitants cruise in comfort.

Fleece-back cotton-jersey sweatshirt, £105, Officine Generale, mrporter.com

Cinderella IV, £7,828,000, Vitters, y.co

Fifty Fathoms Automatique, £10,080, Blancpain, blancpain.com

2 3 4 5 6

the art cinematic masterpiece Created in close collaboration with artist Julian Rentzsch, Stellavie’s portraits illustrate the creative masterminds behind movie scenes by referencing the work of a selection of directors, including Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino and Tim Burton. Movie Director Portraits, £70, Stellavie & Julian Rentzsch, richardgoodallgallery.com

Noir grosgrain-trimmed rabbit-felt fedora, £210, Larose, mrporter.com

the CAR

Padded Pak’r® Sambal, £140, Eastpak, eastpak.com

Printed cotton bandana, £120, Alexander McQueen, alexandermcqueen.com

Camden suede Chelsea boot, £885, Edward Green, edwardgreen.com

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Sense of en-light-enment Zenos Cars was established with the aim of creating thrilling lightweight and affordable sports cars. The company has built a reputation on delivering on its promise. The E10 R is Zenos’ fastest model yet. Fitted with a 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost engine, the car is capable of doing 0-60mph in three seconds, thanks to a combination of 350bhp and 475Nm. It has a dry weight of just 700kg. Perhaps just as remarkable as its performance, is the E10 R’s price; at £39,995 it’s possibly the most accessible way of joining the 500bhp/tonne car club. zenoscars.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Photo by Thomas Skovsende

l’anima

l a i c o s The

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It’s one of the smartest Italian restaurants in the Square Mile, but L’Anima’s head chef Antonio Favuzzi never rests on his laurels, innovating with new ingredients and bringing seasonally tailored menus to its guests. With a new range of winter dishes now on the table, running until the early spring when new ingredients will come into play, guests can expect winter warmers in the shape of pork cheeks with celeriac mash and mirto. Regional southern Italian highlights include a langoustine and prawn-filled ravioli with spicy lobster broth, and rack of lamb with saffron potato, pear and smoked ricotta. Thanks to the Coravin wine preservation system, which allows single glasses of the finest wines to be enjoyed without having to open the whole bottle, it’s worth enjoying wine pairings of the sommelier’s recommendation. 1 Snowden Street, EC2A, lanima.co.uk

S the CRAZE WITH INARY ished r u CUL o n nd cure hes a he epi aunc t l G t s IN e t KEEP e’s La re mil squa

sip service

Sunday Driver For a sporting start to the New Year, The Welcombe hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon – where Roosevelt once stayed – is offering a luxury Sunday night golf package to guests trying to squeeze more out of a weekend. After two rounds of golf on its 18-hole, par 70 course, drinks in the Golf Clubhouse and a three-course dinner in the Jacobean manor-style hotel’s Trevelyan Restaurant will be well earned, before an executive room (an upgrade as part of the package) is home for the night. Wake to a full English breakfast and take a trip to the spa and leisure facilities before it’s time to leave and return to the (thankfully now four-day) working week. from £125 per person based on two sharing, hallmarkhotels.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

The ever experimental Sipsmith – which counts mince pie gin, truffle gin and a distilled Christmas tree among its bizarre creations – has introduced a new quarterly sipping service to bring its gin experiments to curious connoisseurs. Sign up to participate and every three months you’ll receive four 90ml bottles to taste test. Different tiers of membership are available with the Court Member option also including a separate tasting experience with Master Distiller Jared Brown at the Sipsmith Distillery. from £60, sipsmith.com

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| NEWS |

“City foodies quickly came to appreciate 3 South Place’s exceptional British seafood”

Spiced Cuisine

Indian chef Abdul Yaseen, of Cinnamon Club and Cinnamon Kitchen origins, has launched Darbaar restaurant, his first solo project in the City. Inspired by the banqueting habits of the Indian Royal Court, the 220-cover restaurant will combine local, seasonal produce and traditional spices to serve rich sharing dishes such as Nawabi slow roasted leg of lamb and kid goat biryani. Clay ovens and the open Robata grill add to the authenticity of the flavours, as well as the latter making for a more theatrical seating space. A separate bar area also allows guests to enjoy lighter bites with spice-infused cocktails. 1 Snowden Street, EC2A, darbaarrestaurants.com

RESTAURANT REVIEW: ANGLER

HOOKED FROM THE START Words: LILLIE ASHTON

hen Angler opened its door in 2012, executive chef Tony Fleming was competing with the hype surrounding Sushisamba and its terrace, which had just opened on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower. And while the seventh floor views from Angler couldn’t compete with the panorama down the road, City foodies quickly came to appreciate 3 South Place’s exceptional British seafood. A year later, Angler earned a Michelin star. The restaurant itself remains as elegant as the day it opened, with crisp white table cloths, striped upholstered chairs and an impressive mirrored ceiling by sculptors Grace & Webb. The main restaurant seats 84 but there’s also a semi-private dining room with a chef ’s

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view that seats 14. We were greeted by friendly staff and an excellent head sommelier, Benoît Allauzen, who selected the perfect wine pairings for the three courses that followed. Angler has built a reputation on offering the best seasonal and local produce, and, to start, the yellowfin tuna tartare proved just why. My companion’s Orkney Island scallops, served with hedgehog mushrooms, celeriac sage and hazelnut dressing, was, likewise, faultless. Cornish cod then came with pancetta, braised beef cheeks and a red wine sauce. From this dish it’s easy to appreciate the influence that French classicists – Nico Ladenis, Pierre Koffmann and Anton Mosimann – have had on Fleming’s cooking. My friend ordered the haunch of Denham Estate venison, which came with poached pears, chestnuts and a bitter chocolate dressing. It was, like everything else we ate, just as good as it sounds. For desert, we shared the chocolate fondant with pistachio ice cream, and the Tunworth cheesecake with blackberries and sorbet. After such a hearty meal, making our way through both was quite the mission – but one we savoured with every mouthful. 3 South Place, EC2M, anglerrestaurant.com

Lodge D’Argent

Christmas may be over but winter definitely isn’t. Hole up in Coq d’Argent’s terrace – open until the end of February – which has been transformed into a winter lodge with chalet-style décor. Hearty fare and themed cocktails from Alpine Sour to Avalanche are best enjoyed from the warmth of thick fur blankets. Head chef Damien Rigollet’s menu is centred on the potato-based tartifflette, a French Alps speciality, but also offers classic après-ski snacks, best for sharing, like Diots sausages with creamy cabbage and carrots, venison burger and a raclette gratin with dry cured ham. Round things off with desserts paired with Hennessy cognac. No.1 Poultry, EC2R, coqdargent.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Eat healthily in the City at Broadgate Circle Broadgate Circle’s wide range of restaurants offer a world of choice for the health aware in January. Offering a global perspective on wellness, there are vibrant Lebanese salads and fragrant grilled meats at Comptoir Libanais, warming bowls of ramen at Shoryu, and superfood salads at Aubaine – all a more tempting take on traditionally dreary diets. Alternatively, for a quick hit of nutrients, customisable cold-pressed juices and nut milks make PRESS the perfect place to rehydrate, while for those looking to retox, choices including Franco Manca, The Botanist and Street Kitchen have a selection of more indulgent offerings with which to start the new year. broadgate.co.uk/broadgatecircle

broadgate brings in the new year Whether or not you intend to kickstart a healthy regime this January, the City’s new drinking and dining hub, Broadgate Circle, has plenty to offer for foodies, while nearby Broadgate Ice Rink could help you burn off any evidence of festive indulgence

The Tasting Room

After a well-earned winter break, why not start the season full of beans and hold your Monday morning coffee meeting at The Tasting Room? Sink into comfortable Chesterfield sofas and recharge with a range of warming winter drinks – including artisan coffee courtesy of the Gentlemen Baristas. Refuel with protein sharing platters including the ‘grand fish’ – piled high with atlantic prawns, beetroot cured gravadlax and smoked mackerel – a virtuous treat, or the charcuterie platter – Bayonne ham, saucisson, salami and coppa, served with a selection of pickles and sourdough bread – the more indulgent option. thetastingroom.london

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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| promotion |

Take up a challenge at Broadgate Ice Rink For those looking for more of a challenge, ditch the gym and take to the ice for 2016’s latest fitness trend – broomball. The popular Canadian sport will pop up at Broadgate Ice Rink throughout January and February, pitching team against team on the ice – think ice hockey, but without the skates. Battle for supremacy with your friends or colleagues as you work core muscles and burn calories in this fun and fast-paced game. Alternatively, why not learn a new skill for the new year and book a skating lesson with head skate instructor Robert Burgerman? Recently a coach on ITV’s Dancing on Ice, he and his team of NISA qualified coaches will have you gliding gracefully in no time. broadgate.co.uk/ice

Reshape and rumble at 1Rebel

Head to Broadgate this January to try a range of new ways to get back into shape post-Christmas. Sweat out any evidence of festive feasting at 1Rebel’s popular reshape and rumble classes in state-of-the-art fitness studios. The new workout concept makes toning up fun, with playlists curated by renowned DJs, top instructors, showers stocked with luxurious grooming and skincare products, and regular social events for when the detox is over and the retox begins, with coldpressed cocktails and prosecco in 1Rebel’s very own juice bar. broadgate.co.uk/1rebel

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| lifestyle |

BON VIVEUR

Our man-about-town, Innerplace’s Nick Savage, gives you the insider lowdown on LONDON’S most hedonistic haunts

The City’s best members’ Clubs

obody can deny that the City is a fracas of activity during the workweek, and while it can be exhilarating, it’s also important to have a bolthole to retreat to for a quiet tête-àtête, a bracing cup of coffee, or something a little stronger. Luckily, there are quite a few new suitable options that might not be on your radar. Some are members’ clubs, with boardrooms perfect for meetings, others are just classy new spots to refresh and revive.

London Capital Club Situated on Abchurch Lane in Grade IIlisted premises purpose built as a private members’ club in 1915, London Capital Club offers a mahogany panelled bar and dining room exclusively open to members, six classically appointed meeting rooms, and a new downstairs bistro named Tavern at 15 which will cater to members and visitors alike. Helmed by head chef Jean-Didier Gouges, who hails from Mauritius and formerly rattled the pans at the Royal Albert Hall, diners will be treated to an eclectic take on modern British cuisine. Bar20 at Birleys Robin Birley, the man behind seminal Mayfair private members’ club 5 Hertford Street, has opened a new venue in the shadow of The Walkie-Talkie on Fenchurch Street. Guests ascend a staircase to reach a lounge that has a very distinct members’ club character, its walls festooned with an eclectic array of artwork and its floors with low-slung, paisley-upholstered furniture. Open throughout the day for coffee, light bites and an array of classic cocktails, it’s a haven of tranquillity away from the press of the City. Breakfast, lunch and bar snacks are all of top quality yet very reasonably priced.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

M Den Since it opened, M has been one of the City’s go-to destinations for steak, sushi, sashimi, wine, cocktails and Innerplace everything in between, and one is London’s personal of its especially popular facets lifestyle concierge. Membership is M Den, secreted away provides complimentary access to the finest nightclubs, the best behind a discreet door in the restaurants and top private members’ mezzanine bar. In December, clubs. Innerplace also offers priority Martin Williams launched bookings, VIP invitations and the second M in Victoria, insider updates on the latest openings. and its Den has some added innerplace.co.uk charms. The fifty-cover venue will include a personal screening room that can accommodate up to six viewers, personalised bottle lockers for members and an exclusive bar area. Brand Exchange Tucked away on Birchin Lane in the heart of the City, Brand Exchange is an upand-coming private club that has quickly accrued an enviable mix of members. Located in a recently renovated Grade II-listed building, Brand Exchange offers a variety of amenities running the gamut from cocktail bars to boardrooms to offices and snugs, with an array of highprofile events on the calendar which are superlative for learning and networking.

TOP, L-R: London Capital Club; Brand Exchange ABOVE, FROM TOP: Eight Club Morgate; M Den; Bar20 at Birleys

Eight Club With a location nestled deep in a basement off Change Alley, and another perched atop a terrace on Dysart Place, Eight Club has long held sway as one of the top members’ clubs in the City. Whether guests want to play billiards, screen a film, enjoy a threecourse meal or knock back a sundowner as the City goes gold in the twilight, Eight Club offers one of the most comfortable trappings. There are a slew of cocktail masterclasses, talks, comedy nights and members’ parties on the calendar to ensure that City slickers remain entertained.

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13/11/2015 11:27

Best friends George Clooney and Rande Gerber talk to Lauren Romano about banishing hangovers and brewing their own tequila in time for the festive season

On the

Rocks 24

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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| feature |

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

ust when it looked like George Clooney couldn’t be any more of a catch, he goes and finds a tried and tested tonic to a hangover. The cure? Drink tequila. On the rocks, neat, in a margarita; just keep slamming those slammers and wake up smug as a teetotaller on a Saturday morning, is what Dr Clooney prescribes. Of course, he isn’t proffering any old type of tequila; he’s talking about his own brand liquor, Casamigos, distilled with his longtime drinking buddy Rande Gerber. Gerber’s may not be a name that is instantly familiar, although he’s the spouse of one of the world’s most recognisable supermodels and a successful businessman at that. You might have heard him mentioned as the pioneer of the ‘lounge bar’, a type of drinking establishment that doesn’t sound too dissimilar to Central Perk, except it serves White Russians rather than flat whites. Today, Gerber and the third cog in the Casamigos operation, property mogul Mike Meldman, have made themselves very much at home in the bar where we meet to discuss their new venture. It’s the morning after the night before when the trio were tasked with keeping the tequila flowing

“We didn’t care if we sold one bottle as long as we got to keep drinking our own” at the launch party of Cindy Crawford’s new book Becoming. From the sounds of it Clooney was a particularly attentive host, playing bartender and topping up shot glasses with zeal. He’s noticeably absent this morning, although I’m sure it’s just jet lag that’s wiped him out, and not a hangover, heaven forbid. Some might call it hair of the dog, but after hitting the sack at 4am, Gerber and Meldman are back on the sauce in time for our meeting. “I never drink alone,” confesses Gerber, with a mischievous glint in his eye, as he hands me a tumbler of Casamigos Blanco while he pours himself an amber-coloured Casamigos Añejo. “Someone once described Casamigos as ‘dangerously smooth’,” he warns, raising his glass in a toast. He might not have quite the Nespresso suave of Clooney but Gerber, at 53, still has something of that distinctly American poster-boy look about him. Charming, chiselled and very polite, even dressed down in jeans and a zipped jacket, it’s not difficult to see how he ended up married to his model wife. “If you drank a whole bottle you might have a bit of a headache in the morning,

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

I’m not sure,” says Gerber with a wry smile when I quiz him about the non-hangover boast. “But I’ve never experienced it and we’ve definitely done the research.” And nobody could accuse the boys of not doing their homework. Propping up bars all over Mexico, where they built neighbouring homes called ‘Casamigos’ in Cabo San Lucas a decade ago, the drinking buddies worked their way through hundreds of different versions of the local spirit, all in the name of research. Unable to find the perfect blend, it was Clooney who suggested they make their own and they spent two years working with a master distiller in Jalisco. It might be a bit of a sidestep for the actor, but as career paths go it’s not such a curveball for Gerber, who until 2010 headed up Gerber Group, a nightlife empire reportedly worth $100m. Hotelier Ian Schrager gave him his big break, tasking him with fitting out the bar at the Paramount Hotel in 1990. Cue The Whiskey, a blueprint for the lounge bar concept, complete with comfortable sofas. Other spin-offs followed as well as the Skybar in LA where Gerber reportedly bumped into Crawford after her divorce from Richard Gere. I ask Gerber if it’s annoying that Clooney is the one in the limelight. “I think the great thing for George is that this is his

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| feature |

first business. When there’s a decision to be made it’s the three of us that discuss it together.” Several years after the first bottles of Casamigos were produced, it was the distillery that threatened to pull the plug. “‘We’re sending you about 1,000 bottles a year so either you’re selling it or you’re drinking way too much,’ they said to us,” laughs Gerber. “They told us we needed to get a licence for our ‘samples’. We didn’t care if we sold one bottle as long as we got to keep drinking it.” The fact that Casamigos is the fastest growing ultra-premium tequila in the States, heaped with more accolades than you can shake a margarita shaker at, is a bonus. “Most people equate tequila to their college days and haven’t touched it since, but the type of agave that we use is the best of the best,” explains Gerber. Later, Clooney tells me: “We wanted a greattasting smooth tequila that didn’t have to be covered up with salt or lime. We like Casamigos neat or on the rocks. Margaritas are great but I don’t want to have that all the time. The sugar alone can kill you after about three,” he jokes. The agave (that’s a type of aloe plant between me and you) used in Casamigos’ three tequilas is 100 per cent Blue Weber grown in the Jalisco Highlands. In Gerber and Clooney’s current liquor line-up

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there’s Casamigos Blanco, a crisp, clear and incredibly smooth tipple; Casamigos Reposado, a slightly more viscous blend with hints of caramel; and Casamigos Añejo, which is aged for 14 months and has a smoky aroma that treads on whisky territory. Rande, Meldman and I are two and a half tequilas in when Cindy Crawford makes her entrance, sweeping into the bar with all the inconspicuousness that a supermodel can muster. I wouldn’t mind looking like her, having been partying to the early hours of the morning. She is radiantly beautiful; the tequila goggles amplifying the glossy mane, gazelle-like leather-clad legs and megawatt smile. Her poison’s usually a Reposado on the rocks, but the paps are outside waiting to snap her en route to her latest press junket, so she doesn’t stick around for long. Together, Gerber and Crawford have got to be in the running for the most photogenic couple of all time, although Clooney and new wife Amal Alamuddin aren’t far behind. As brand ambassadors go, a supermodel, an internationally famed barrister and a Hollywood A-lister aren’t bad, I muse, as Gerber laughs a little helplessly. He admits that having celebrities attached to any brand can backfire, but – and again, perhaps it’s the tequila talking – he insists that Clooney’s involvement is the real deal. The pair have known each other for 20 years, first meeting at Gerber’s New York bar Morgans. They visit their homes in Mexico ten times a year to put every batch through its paces and there have been plenty of salubrious incidents during the production process. One tale, which is already part of Casamigos folklore, never gets old for Gerber. After they got their licence, the story goes, Gerber and Clooney celebrated so much that Clooney had to crash at the Gerbers’ Malibu pad. Cindy woke up at 3am and discovered her husband lying face down on the bed in the guest room fully clothed. She got into bed, tried to wake him up and what do you know, it was actually George, not Rande. “She came to find me and said: ‘I just got into bed with George!’” Gerber sniggers. “We could hear him downstairs raiding the cupboards, laughing about it. In the morning he said, ‘that’s going to be our first ad campaign: drink a bottle of Casamigos and wake up with Cindy Crawford’. But Cindy insisted that we changed it to ‘wake up with George Clooney’.” The scene was re-enacted in an ad and the tag line: ‘it could happen’ stuck. As Clooney says, “the tequila was made just for us to drink and share with friends, it was never intended to be a company.” Casamigos Tequila, from £62.99, selfridges.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Comes thoughtfully pre-wrapped. Enjoy responsibly.

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10/11/2015 10:04

First Dates

| feature |

If you’re single and you’ve spent half of December in some humdrum backwater outside of London, January doesn’t mean detox, it means a return to the dating game. In the spirit of the season, we speak to the face of Channel 4’s First Dates, he of cult-status, Mr Fred Sirieix, and five leading ladies offer some words of wisdom for their would-be knights in shining armour

sixty seconds with Fred sirieix As maître d’ of the smash-hit series First Dates, which is filmed in St Paul’s Paternoster Chop House, Fred Sirieix’s philosophical soundbites have won him an army of armchair admirers. Starting his career as a chef de rang at London’s three-Michelin-starred La Tante Claire, Fred has worked in various roles at Le Gavroche, Sartoria and Brasserie Roux. Today, Fred is general manager at Galvin at Windows, within the London Hilton on Park Lane, and founder of hospitality training tool The Art of Service. Fred has two beautiful children and lives in Peckham.

Fred’s favourites: Book: The Art of War by Sun Tzu Poem: Mignone allons voir si la rose by Ronsard and Sonnet 116 by Shakespeare Film: Coup de Tete with Patrick Dewaere Bar: Galvin Bar at the London Hilton on Park Lane Restaurant: El Pirata, Mayfair Holiday destination: Italy

Why has ‘First Dates’ proved so popular? First Dates is real, genuine and warm. It is true and it brings people together. It is about all of us. What’s the biggest mistake people make on their first date? Possibly being scared, nervous or telling all about the skeletons in the closet in one go! Do you believe in love at first sight? Of course! I love this quote from Shakespeare “When I saw you I fell in love and you smiled because you knew.” Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? It is from my boss, Chris Galvin: “Don’t be afraid to be sacked.” Who would be your three favourite dinner guests? Socrates, Lee Miller and Alexander the Great. What mantra do you live by? Enjoy life, learn forever and make a difference. What are you most scared of ? Nothing. What do you most enjoy about working on First Dates? Putting people together and seeing love blossom, it is a never-ending pleasure.

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

He randomly dared me to run in to a KFC and shout or sing something. I can’t remember what it was exactly, but I was like ‘Errr…No…’ but he kept insisting. It was really, really weird!

Suzi Nolan, 25, Commodity Broker What three things should a man never do on a first date? 1) Be on his phone 2) Burp 3) Talk too much – I like to talk! What’s the best way to create a bad first impression? Be late. I also had a date who turned up hungover from the night before and I could still smell the alcohol on him – needless to say, he did not get a kiss. First dates: who should pay? Split the bill. If he pays it all then I feel like he expects something from me in return! What’s your most awkward dating experience? I had a first date where he randomly dared me to run in to a KFC and shout or sing something. I can’t remember what it was exactly, but I was like ‘Errr… No…’ but he kept insisting. It was really, really weird! In the end I just tried to change the subject. Money no object, what would be the date of your dreams? A day trip to Paris.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Olivia Johnson, 28, Communications Manager What three things should a man never do on a first date? 1) Brag about past conquests 2) Call you by the wrong name 3) Talk about money What’s the best way to create a bad first impression? By being rude or ungentlemanly to the people around you. If you’re in a restaurant or at a bar, how your date treats those around you says a lot. Friendly, confident and polite are all such attractive traits whereas the opposite is a total turn-off. First dates: who should pay? To be honest, even as a professional woman, if it’s going well I still think it’s romantic and chivalrous if the man pays. I would always offer and be happy to go

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| feature |

The romantic side of me would love to be whisked off to Paris for lunch

Ellie Blakemore, 31, PR Executive What three things should a man never do on a first date? 1) Make money an issue – either laborious bill splitting or being overly extravagant. 2) Make any comment on what the girl is eating. Or how much wine she’s drinking. Not. A. Word. 3) Quote long chunks of Anchorman or Alan Partridge throughout the night. What’s the best way to create a bad first impression? Moaning! Bitching about your life gives the impression of someone who’s generally dissatisfied, which is really not an attractive prospect… Also rearranging at the last minute – I’m busy too! First dates: who should pay? Sorry… but I really think the man should insist on paying on the first date; the girl should definitely offer though. What’s your most awkward dating experience? I was set up on a blind date and approached a man at the bar assuming it was him. It wasn’t, but he didn’t correct me and we were halfway through a drink when my actual date arrived. Money no object, what would be the date of your dreams? Somewhere with a good buzz so there’s no room for awkwardness. I love the Connaught Bar or anywhere with good live music. Or Mecca Bingo of course.

Dutch but it is attractive if the man offers on the first date and even more so if he insists, especially if it was him who chose the location. What’s your most awkward dating experience? During a very awkward blind date, I ordered a glass of wine and had my date say how offensive it is to drink wine as it ‘pollutes the essence of the grape’. A full bottle was needed after this – especially as my grandfather was a wine merchant. Money no object, what would be the date of your dreams? The romantic side of me would love to be whisked off to Paris for lunch followed by a walk through the Tuileries Gardens and champagne on the Seine. Realistically, a relaxed London date would be brilliant. Perhaps meeting for a drink along South Bank and then wandering along the river to Borough Market for supper. If it’s continuing to go well, you could hop across to Soho and go salsa dancing or head to somewhere like Ronnie Scott’s for some late live jazz the man of my dreams would definitely dance.

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| feature |

He seemed intent on disagreeing with everything that came out of my mouth, to the point where he told me that my job involved ‘running a concentration camp for children’

MISS yATES, 30, tEACHER What three things should a man never do on a first date? 1) Take you to meet his parents – I know, I couldn’t believe it either! 2) Get horrendously drunk – gauge the mood of the evening before you finish your sixth drink and are holding onto the bar for support. 3) Be presumptuous. What’s the best way to create a bad first impression? Seem desperate. First dates: who should pay? I’m traditional and I think the man should at least offer. I went on a date with a man who said he’d take me out for dinner and then ‘forgot’ his wallet. Don’t do that. What’s your most awkward dating experience? I recently decided that I needed to branch out from my usual ‘type’ and try dating men that I wouldn’t usually have looked at. I ended with the worst date of my life. Firstly, he clearly didn’t want to be there – he kept looking out of the window and checking his phone. Secondly, every question he asked me he seemed intent on disagreeing with everything I said, to the point where he told me that my job involved ‘brainwashing kids for a living’ and ‘running a concentration camp for children’. Money no object, what would be the date of your dreams? A date is about getting to know someone rather than showing off. Meet somewhere interesting for a drink first, like the Radio Rooftop Bar in Aldwych, the amazing views would be a great ice breaker. If the date is going well, head on to dinner, somewhere like Chiltern Firehouse if you’re really trying to impress. I’m a big advocate of keeping dates simple, there’s no point whisking someone off for a mini-break in Rome if you then find out you don’t really like them!

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Sophie James, 35, PR Manager What three things should a man never do on a first date? 1) Talk about your ex. 2) Check out other women. 3) Anything sexual – talk about it, make moves, tell jokes... What’s the best way to create a bad first impression? Being late. Wearing a rucksack. Cycling there. Not making an effort in your appearance. Having dandruff. Not having visited the dental hygienist since the early 1990s. Not having planned anything. Book somewhere – doesn’t have to be fancy, just somewhere. First dates: who should pay? Always the man. What’s your most awkward dating experience? I can style out most situations but it’s awkward if they’ve missold themselves. The last time this happened, the guy, in his online chat, had been going on about how being a Leo he had massive sexual energy (I should have listened to myself here). He looked handsome with a preppy style going on from the profile pictures. He said he went to the gym. I was looking forward to meeting this hot thing. When I did, I was met by Gordon Brown’s twin brother – complete with brown tweed suit, braces and physique. He also spoke in a loud booming voice, enunciating every syllable as if he was giving a lecture. I wanted to run for the hills, it was written all over my face. He said ‘You don’t have to stay’. He asked me directly why he wasn’t what I expected. ‘Is it my looks or personality?’ Jeepers, can you imagine asking? ‘Both,’ I said. Money no object, what would be the date of your dreams? Somewhere that shows that a) He is a gentleman; b) He has been listening to me; c) He is vaguely cool/ sophisticated/in the know; d) He views me in a romantic light. Major brownie points if they suggest a restaurant or bar near me or come and pick me up in their car or a taxi and take me there. I’m over men wanting me to make a journey to their area – very lazy. It came up in conversation with one guy that I had never been to The River Café – his favourite restaurant. When we went on our second date, he met me in a pub close to where I live then said he had booked somewhere for dinner. We got in a cab and it took us there. That was very cool. I couldn’t believe he had remembered!

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shi 2014/2:Udeshi 2014 9/18/14 9:52 AM Page 1

Out from the shadows

| interview |

Image courtesy of Pancreatic Cancer Action, pancreaticcanceraction.org

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Lord Sugar’s most trusted confidant, Nick Hewer, discusses The Apprentice, Corbynmania and outwitting a Russian policeman Words: James Lawrence

s one of Britain’s most successful and astute PR gurus, you might expect any interview with Nick Hewer to be a well-rehearsed and scripted affair. Yet the former Apprentice advisor is decidedly relaxed as we settle into the Reform Club in Pall Mall, a private members’ club originally founded for Whigs and Radicals in 1836. Even the trademark sceptical squint – a defining feature of his performance during The Apprentice – is noticeably absent. “The truth is that I never really wanted to appear in The Apprentice,” is the 71-year-old’s surprising conversation opener. “I helped Alan negotiate the original television deal, and then stayed on for a holiday in his Marbella villa. He basically bullied me into it during the holiday – television had never had any draw for me, although he did promise to obtain a good fee for my work. And besides, he’s a hard man to say no to.” Hewer, of course, yielded. And a good thing too, for soon after the first series he became the cult hero of the show, famous for those droll putdowns and memorable winces. He worked on The Apprentice for 10 seasons, finally retiring in December last year. “I was getting really irritable with the long filming hours and demands on my time,” he says. “Everything has its lifespan.”

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| interview |

Although born in Swindon, Hewer’s Irish Catholic mother insisted that her children be educated in Ireland – “That was the price for marrying my English father,” Hewer notes with that signature dry wit. He paints a picture of a happy childhood, albeit admitting that his father was “Edwardian” in his approach to parenting. “I had a very regimented upbringing, but then that was normal at the time.” After attending a Jesuit boarding school, he secured a place to study law in Dublin, but was unable to take up his place due to a lack of funding. “Money was tight at the time, although my siblings all went to university. The truth is that regardless of the money issue, I didn’t have any strong aspirations at that age.” Hewer was able to secure an apprenticeship in a local law firm, which gave him a good education through the back door. Yet after his training, he left the security of law to make his way in London. “I basically fell into my first job by accident,” he says. “I was hanging out in London in the 1960s and applied for a traineeship with the firm Michael Joyce Consultants. In those days I was a very naïve young man, I thought PR would be quite an altruistic occupation.” Hewer quickly ascended the ranks of his firm, motivated by his desire to “make myself unsackable by the time I was 30”. He became an equity partner and subsequently sole shareholder within six years of joining the company. His relationship with Amstrad started in 1983, when Sir Alan Sugar’s then marketing manager requested Hewer’s help in launching a games console. Lord Sugar remains one of Hewer’s closest friends, despite his decision to quit The Apprentice. “My first impressions of Alan were a man who engendered a great loyalty from those close to him – he boasts an amazingly strong personality. However, Alan also has a short attention span and can be quite abrasive. He doesn’t play the game and pander to politicians and journalists, unlike some of his contemporaries.” So did Hewer always agree with Sugar’s decisions? “No,” comes the quick-as-a-flash reply. “No one is right all the time.” One of the most impressive things about the former industry leader is that despite his advancing years, he is tirelessly devoted to nurturing the next generation of talent. He has long been passionate about business education, and continues to visit schools and colleagues on behalf of the Merchant Taylors’ Company and the National Literacy Trust. Hewer is a firm believer that ambition ultimately counts for more than talent. “Of course talent is important, but without drive and ambition you’ll get nowhere,” he says. “You can succeed in life with relatively little actual talent.”

“I think living by a principle that we should all try to help those who are less fortunate is a pretty good way to live ”

FROM TOP Hewer in Sierra Leone with Street Child; Hewer on The Apprentice © BBC; Hewer arriving for theTV Choice awards at the Savoy, London (Photo: Featureflash); Hewer in Sierra Leone

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

As a long-term Labour supporter, Hewer is also ideally placed to comment on the party’s current and former choice of leader. “I remember meeting Ed Miliband immediately after he was appointed – on Andrew Neil’s show,” Hewer explains. “My first impression was that he had a very weak handshake, never a good sign. He was an utterly ineffectual leader and someone should have pulled the trigger long before Labour lost the last election.” His assessment of Labour’s new leader is kinder, although Hewer remains wary of so-called Corbynmania. “He’s a very eloquent politician and is selling something very attractive, an alternative vision for Britain which has been lacking from mainstream politics.” But Corbyn’s politics and policies are nonetheless “a fantasy,” he says. “I don’t think he will ever win an election, not unless we see a seismic shift over the next few years in public opinion. The economy is doing quite well and that’s what it ultimately all boils down to.” Not that Hewer is a massive fan of the current government, noting his distaste for Theresa May’s last party conference speech, which attacked immigration. “The politics of blame are comforting but dangerous – I’m sick of this anti-immigration rhetoric,” he says. “They [immigrants] have made an invaluable contribution to British society over the past two decades.” Speaking of great contributions, the conversation turns to one of Hewer’s current main occupations – charitable work. He dedicates an impressive amount of time to several charities, including Pancreatic Cancer Action, for who he acts as patron, and Street Child, which helps families in Sierra Leone who have suffered from the Ebola virus. He insists, though, that he is not “a philanthropist,” with a modesty that is very much his mark. “I think living by a principle that we should all try to help those who are less fortunate is a pretty good way to live – the world is a pretty shitty place right now.” One of Hewer’s most famous campaigns involved raising money for the organisation Hope and Homes for Children, by taking part in a charity rally that took him from London to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, behind the wheel of a Renault 4L. He raised over £12,000. “The best moment was an evening in the Kazakhstan desert, the feeling of serenity was incredible,” says Hewer. “But the worst was getting drunk on vodka with an Altai policeman, who insisted that I had agreed to sell him my car. I convinced him to wait until the following morning to complete the deal, and then drove away at the crack of dawn, seriously hungover. I was sure he’d ambush me on the way to the Mongolian border.” Hewer’s other major passion is cars, particularly classic English models of which he owns several. “I’ve sadly written off an old Aston Martin recently, so I’m now in the market for a DB9,” he says. It is at this moment, when I suggest that Hewer has clearly enjoyed a wealthy and prosperous life, that the atmosphere turns slightly awkward. “I’m not wealthy and extravagant,” comes the terse reply. “I hate it when people elevate themselves above everyone else – I still use the Tube, for example, and I think I’m fairly frugal on the whole.” As the interview draws to an end, we come full circle and muse over Hewer’s finest moments in The Apprentice, a show that has done much to transform the public’s view of business. While the 11th season was as entertaining as ever, it was all the poorer for this remarkable man’s absence. s luxurylo nd o n.c o.uk s

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| COLLECTION |

WATCHES & JEWELLERY Celebrating the delightful and the divine from the world of fine jewellery and haute horology

ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK Each year, Harry Winston partners with some of the most creative minds in independent watchmaking to produce an extraordinary, limited-edition timepiece. In late 2015, the company collaborated with ex-Greubel Forsey employee Franck Orny and Johnny Girardin, previously of Patek Philippe. The result was the Opus 14. Inspired by 1950s America, the watch houses a patented miniaturised jukebox mechanism, where four discs display local time, GMT time, the date and a star bearing the signature of Mr Harry Winston, himself. Note, too, the vinyl-style finishes on the watchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dials. Opus 14, ÂŁ327,800, Harry Winston, harrywinston.com

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| COLLECTION |

WAtches

Words: Richard Brown

PERPETUAL INNOVATION

Perfect Timing After subjecting the watch to five tests, including three measurement cycles, exposure to magnetic fields, and exposure to more than 150 impacts, judges at the biennial International Chronometry Competition 2015 named Louis Moinet’s Vertalor as the most accurate tourbillon of the past two years. The most precise mechanical watch ever created remains Greubel Forsey’s Double Tourbillon 30°, which won in 2011. Vertalor, £130,000, Louis Moinet louismoinet.com

Art for Art’s Sake Jaquet Droz’s The Charming Bird has won the 2015 Mechanical Exception prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. The watch’s pièce de résistance, a miniaturised bird ensconced in a 47mm-diameter case, plays no part in telling the time and will only sing once activated. Instead, the piece pays homage to the micro-mechanical mastery of the company’s namesake – who built mechanical birds in the 18th century. The Charming Bird, approx £264,480, Jaquet Droz, jaquet-droz.com

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“I call perpetual calendars boomerang watches,” says Maximilian Büsser, founder of MB&F. “Boomerang watches because they come back for repair so often.” The trouble with perpetual calendar watches – those that automatically account for months of varying lengths and leap years – is that mechanisms jam and dates jump when they shouldn’t. MB&F’s solution is the Legacy Machine Perpetual which, instead of using a conventional space-consuming big-lever system to flick through dates, uses a series of superimposed disks. MB&F’s system eradicates the need to skip over redundant days, meaning there is no possibility of the date jumping incorrectly. Legacy Machine Perpetual, £109,340 (before tax) in platinum, MB&F, mbandf.com

The Most Complicated Watch Ever Made A complication, in watch speak, refers to anything a timepiece does over and above displaying the hours and minutes of the day. Launched in 2015, Vacheron Constantin’s Reference 57260 features 57 complications. It will tell you everything from the time in 24 cities, to seasons, equinoxes and signs of the zodiac. It has 31 hands, two dials and 2,826 parts. Owners must remember to correct its moon phases once every 1,027 years. Reference 57260, vacheron-constantin.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

extreme watchmaking

Purveyor of specialist sports watches for the seriously well-heeled, Richard Mille’s disruptive approach to timekeeping – along with the brand’s phenomenal growth – has left many in the watch world spellbound. More than manufacturing high-performance timepieces, the brand is in the business of creating uncompromising status symbols for the 21st century WORDS: Richard Brown

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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| collection |

RM 19-02 Tourbillon Fleur

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THE THECITY CITYMAGAZINE MAGAZINE || January 2016

here has, in the past two decades, been a trend for big-name watchmakers to abandon their posts at big-name watch companies and set up specialist ateliers of their own. The result has been a new type of haute horology – ultra-modern timepieces produced in super-limited numbers that are characterised, typically, by their renegade design, novel mechanics and preposterous price tags. Of the cluster of watchmakers that have come to define this realm – MB&F, Christophe Claret, Hysek, HYT and Urwerk (although there are others) – only one has successfully seeped into the collective consciousness of the watch-wearing public: Richard Mille. Thanks to partnerships with Felipe Massa and Rafael Nadal, and then with Yohan Blake and Bubba Watson, and through strategic sponsorship of teams like Lotus F1 and Manchester City Football Club, Richard Mille has ensured that its watches – or at the very least its logo – occupy a place in the public psyche that’s far more prominent than any of its avantgarde stable mates. De Bethune, Hautlence and Roger Dubuis all make fantastic watches. All remain unknown to the man on the street. Richard Mille, the man, established his eponymous company in 2001. Never having trained as a watchmaker himself, Mille had spent more than two decades in the commercial divisions of various watch and clock companies before having the entrepreneurial vision to create what was effectively his very own watch segment. Considering the current crop of calibres used in sports watches to be archaic and uninteresting, the Frenchman employed his old friend Fabrice Deschanel, general director of Renaud & Papi (movement makers to Audemars Piguet), to find a way of modernising the way watches are made. Mille’s aim, which became his slogan, was to manufacture ‘racing machines for the wrist’.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

TOP TOP RM 056 Felipe Massa Limited Edition Sapphire Tourbillon; RM 26-02 Evil Eye Tourbillon; RM 19-01 Tourbillon Spider

Fourteen years after Richard Mille debuted his first watch – the skeletonised RM 001 borrowed subtle touches from watches Mille had worked on at previous employer Mauboussin, and established the now immediately recognisable tonneaushaped case – the brand is now selling some 3,000 watches a year. Its loftiest creation, the RM 056 Felipe Massa Limited Edition Sapphire Tourbillon, will set you back a princely £1,560,000. Entry-level prices – for the RM 023, RM 029, RM 010 and RM 016 – start around £60,000. Even sales at this price point suggest an annual turnover of almost a quarter-of-a-billion quid. Not bad for a man who refused to do any market research, or study his competition, prior to launch. Mille, now 64, is as cool a cucumber as you’ll find in the watch industry – bespectacled, funny and full of bonhomie. Even so, the success his company has enjoyed must have taken even him by surprise? “Only at the very beginning,” Mille answers, implying success is something you quickly get used to. “I literally went from showing the first pieces to prospective buyers and hoping for their interest, to having to produce a larger number within only a few weeks. It has been a non-stop, high-speed ride ever since.” So, what’s Richard Mille the brand all about? In a word: performance. Performance under duress; performance when the wearer of the watch is pushing it to its limit. Most sports watch ambassadors will remove their watch before they compete. Not Richard Mille’s. Bubba Watson wears his while driving golf balls over 310 yards; Nadal’s is subjected to serves of almost 120 mph. Such forces would affect even the most basic of mechanical movements; the ones inside Bubba’s and Nadal’s are tourbillons. Bubba’s, the RM 38-01, contains a mechanical G-force sensor that’s able to record the force of a golfer’s swing – a world first, unsurprisingly – while Nadal’s, the RM 27-01, is officially the planet’s lightest tourbillon wristwatch, weighing just 19 grams, including the strap. “For anyone looking for a nocompromise timepiece that is at the cutting edge of 21st century haute horlogerie, our watches perfectly fit the bill,” says Mille. He insists, too, that the profession of his chosen partners helps, rather than hinders, innovation at the company. “The collaborations are beneficial for everyone concerned. I am not talking only about money here; much more interesting for me is what we learn about watchmaking as we face new

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| collection |

“Watches can be fun, enjoyable, precious and even make you smile – but in the end, timepieces are, for me, serious objects that I spend my life researching and developing” – Richard Mille

challenges with different disciplines. These experiences on track and field cannot be given a value, as the knowledge we gain working with each personality flows through the entire collection.” In trouble-shooting problems like the violent accelerations and vibrations experienced during a F1 grand prix, Richard Mille gives us things like baseplates made out of high-density carbon nanofibres. Once the preserve of the aeronautic and space industries, carbon nanofibre is created under 740 bars and a temperature of 2,000°C, making it highly resistant to shocks and thermal influences. When Felipe Massa crashed at 170mph during qualification for the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2009, his RM 006 proved completely unaffected – largely, it’s thought, because of the cutting-edge composition of the materials inside. Massa and fellow F1 driver Romain Grosjean, along with nine-time World Rally Champion Sébastien Loeb, wear a Richard Mille every time they race. Though his creations may model things as far-out as dragon’s eyes (the RM2602), magnolia plants (the RM 19-02) and diamond-encrusted spiders (the RM 19-01), Mille insists his watches are “anti-bling”. “There are no gimmicks to be found in my watches; everything I do – absolutely everything – has a clear reason behind it. Great attention is paid to every single detail, even to such small items as specially-made screws, each of which takes 20 separate operations to create.” In the case of the examples above, this means that the five handcrafted petals of the magnolia flower open and close automatically to beautiful effect; that the ‘Evil Eye’ motif is actually a type of enamelling that requires applying several layers of oxides onto gold at temperatures of 900°C; and that the skeletonised baseplate of the RM 19-01 is machined into the shape of a spider’s web from 18K white gold before being decorated with hundreds of black sapphires. “If you are just looking for a big chunk of gold to wear, or a watch whose only interesting feature is that it has a magnesium and aluminum ring inside it, then I’m not your man. We have presented several new movements over the past five years; an unheard-of amount for a small company like ours. It’s even more crazy

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when you realise that some of these new, highly complex movements, like that for the RM 19-02 Fleur, RM 69, RM 031 or RM 27-02, were developed for only a handful of limited-series watches.” It’s not difficult, nowadays, to find a watch that will set you back the price of a two-bedroom house in suburbia. Richard Mille’s pieces, though, will more regularly afford you an apartment in Fulham. When your creations command some of the highest prices in the industry – justifiably so or not – discourse has a tendency to centre on money rather mechanical mastery. By remaining uncompromising in its commitment to pushing boundaries, both in the movements it makes and the materials it uses, Richard Mille will at least be able to reassure its clients they are getting what they pay for. Richard Mille, 90 Mount Street, W1K, richardmille.com Richard Mille

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| COLLECTION |

jewellery

Words: olivia sharpe

All Ears Post-Christmas is the time to pinch pennies, but this is often when we are most in need of some retail therapy to get over the January blues. Fortunately for us, since launching its first store in 2012, Cadenzza has been committed to providing customers with trend-led fashion jewellery that won’t break the bank. Along with its wealth of luxury fashion brands - from Azzaro to Oscar de la Renta - Cadenzza also stocks its own private label and the latest pieces from the A/W15 Elementary collection include a number of covetable ear jackets, one of the latest jewellery statements to have hit the industry. Arriving in rose, yellow gold and rhodium-plated styles and starting from just £59, it is music to our ears. cadenzza.com

CLEAR AS CRYSTAL

Stepping up

It was the Ancient Greeks who believed that crystals have spiritual healing properties. While the K&C team is slightly dubious as to the restorative power of stones, we can at least admit that Noor Fares’ new jewellery line, Krystallos, has renewed our faith in the power of fine jewellery to lift our spirits. The name of the capsule collection is taken from the Greek word meaning ‘ice’ and comprises an array of precious stones – from white and rose quartz to amethysts and lapis lazuli – that have been set into geometric pendants, earrings and rings. Krystallos collection, £3,000 to £8,000 noorfares.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Monkey Business 2016 is the year of the monkey in Chinese astrology and jewellers have paid tribute to the animal with witty, inventive and playful designs. Known for her whimsical pieces, Lydia Courteille has created the Mono ring, which features a monkey’s head carved in 18-carat yellow gold and ornately decorated with green tsavorites, orange sapphires, amethysts and diamonds. Meanwhile, Spanish brand Carrera y Carrera has designed a number of new earrings, our favourite of which presents two monkeys dangling mischievously on either earring while holding a bunch of pink opals. carreraycarrera.com; lydiacourteille.com

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80s revival

Sequin bomber jacket, £834, Philipp Plein, farfetch.com

Sequinned lightning dress, £369, Au Jour Le Jour, farfetch.com

BELOW, FROM LEFT Zelda two-tone suede pump, £500, Aquazzura, net-a-porter.com; Colour block clutch, £493.94, Les Petits Joueurs, farfetch.com; Colour block sandal, £592.74, Aperlaï, farfetch.com

STYLE

block party The colour-blocking trend is nothing new, in fact it really rose to prominence with the release of The September Issue in 2007. For A/ W15, Bally blocked it out big time, while Fendi kept it a little more discreet, blocking a neutral palette with something bright. If you’re not brave enough to block a whole outfit like Bally, opt for one colourblocked piece, like a skirt or pair of stilettos, and keep the rest neutral like Fendi. Either way it’s a great way to incorporate colour.

Colour-block asymmetric skirt, £675.89, Fausto Puglisi, farfetch.com

Colour-block leather and suede tote, £440, Clare V, net-a-porter.com

Ruffle-waist jumpsuit, £995, Roksanda, brownsfashion.com

Colour-block maxi skirt, £760, Roksanda, net-a-porter.com

Colour-block sweater, £570, Jil Sander, net-a-porter.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

circles, from left Bow-effect pointed toe ballerinas, £436.95, Oscar de la Renta, farfetch.com; Siren rose gold-plated quartz earrings, £110, Monica Vinader, net-a-porter.com; Georgina leather-trimmed wool-felt fedora, £330, Eugenia Kim, net-a-porter.com

Faye tote bag, £1,178.89, Paula Cademartori, farfetch.com

W himsical and feminin e, thi s look i s about pretty f loral s and soft fabrics with an apparent vintage vib e. D ior and Gucci were th e hop eless romantics with frill s and f loral s that remind us of our fav ourit e party dresses as a little girl . Ballet f lats with bow s, cardigans with f loral appliqu é and umbrellas in pai sley prints will only add to th ese gorgeously girly ensembles. Now to find a dat e to take you som ew h ere special .

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| style |

Go big or go hom e. 80s fashion was a feast for th e eyes, so it ’s little surpri se that e ver y couple of seasons, th e fabulous fashion of thi s decadent decade enjoys a renai ssance. Moschino and Balmain h eaded up th e revival for A/W15 with fi sh tail s, ruf f les, p eplums and pleats, w hile Saint L aurent gave its 80s-inspired collection a bit of edge. It was fun th e first tim e, so w ho’s up for round tw o?

Skull choker necklace, £2,340, Givenchy, selfridges.com

Her

ABOVE, FROM LEFT Medium chunky hoop earrings, £522, Vaubel, farfetch.com; Rebel metallic snake shoulder bag, £1,095, Jimmy Choo, net-a-porter.com; Leather ankle sandal, £520, Gucci, gucci.com

Striped sequinned dress, £2,650, Emilio Pucci, selfridges.com

Waistcoat, £1,380, Jil Sander, store.jilsander.com

LESS IS MORE

circles, from top Cheyne gold-plated pearl earrings, £105, Aurélie Bidermann, net-a-porter.com; Zipped pouch in striped coated canvas, £340, Givenchy, net-a-porter.com; Lena pump, £445, Gianvito Rossi, gianvitorossi.com

Coco Chanel said: “Before leaving the house, a lady should look in the mirror and remove one accessory.” Following Chanel’s lead this season, were Diane von Furstenberg and Valentino – both brands opted for a monochrome, minimalist look and the result was simply superb. If you’re more concerned with timeless elegance, than the latest trend, here are your wardrobe wonders from a few of our favourite designers. Remember, simple doesn’t have to be boring.

Grosvenor dress, £198, Libby London, libbylondon.com

The leading ladies and latest looks guiding style this season

Classic turtleneck sweater, £288, J.Crew, jcrew.com

Della printed maxi dress, £1,295, Jonathan Saunders, net-a-porter.com Paisley print umbrella, £204.34, Etro, farfetch.com

Floral embroidered twill dress, £2,430, Giambattista Valli, brownsfashion.com

Slingback ballerinas, £848.81, René Caovilla, farfetch.com

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| STYLE |

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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| beauty |

fresh as a daisy begin the new year with refreshed and radiant skin

inner glow Tom Ford’s new Purifying Cleansing Oil (£58, selfridges.com) removes make-up and breaks down damaging pollutants on the surface while simultaneously drenching thankful skin cells with nutrient-rich oils and plant extracts.

Superdefense Night Recovery Moisturizer, £42, Clinique, clinique.co.uk

Dior Prestige La Crème, £250, Dior, dior.com

Geranium Leaf Body Scrub, £25, Aesop, aesop.com

SubQ Eyes serum, £27, Hylamide, hylamide.com

The Super Green Molecule, £28, Fountain, fountain.co Thi s C ellumination Cream E X from SK-II (£115, harrods.com) uses Aura-Bright™ t echnolog y to block stress receptors in th e skin and th ereby promot e a more e ven skin ton e and t exture.

Perfect Cleanser, £3.50, Oskia, oskiaskincare.com Body Silk Body Cream, £42, La Perla, johnlewis.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

My Burberry Shower Oil, £38, Burberry, uk.burberry.com

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TOP GEAR Steer clear of passing trends; match the enduring style of a classic car with sophisticated staples from your friends on Savile Row PHOTOGRAPHY: Alexander Beer STYLIST: Mike Adler @ Terri Manduca

London to New York blazer, £1,295, Turnbull & Asser, turnbullandasser.co.uk; White cotton shirt, £125, Grey silk cotton tie, £70, both Hardy Amies, hardyamies.com; Ivory Harrison silk trousers, £580, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, ralphlauren.co.uk 54

THE CITY MAGAZINE | February 2016

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| style |

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | February 2016

THIS PAGE: Grey/blue linen blazer, £415, Regent dress shirt, £99, both Brooks Brothers, brooksbrothers.com; Cotton-silk Mogador tie, £95, Chester Barrie, chesterbarrie.co.uk; Paisley pocket square, £30, Hackett London, hackett.com OPPOSITE PAGE: Suit, £1,245, White shirt, £145, both Richard James, richardjames.co.uk; Green knit tie, starting from £75, Brooks Brothers, as before

| STYLE |

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| STYLE |

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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THIS PAGE: Chestnut check wool mix suit, £1,890, Dunhill, dunhill.co.uk; Grey cotton shirt, £225, Kilgour, kilgour.com; Navy crepe satin hank, £70, Hardy Amies, as before; Metallic blue silk tie, starting from £75, Brooks Brothers, as before; Alt1-c/rose gold watch, £13,950, Bremont, bremont.com OPPOSITE PAGE: Jacket. £745, Trousers (part of suit), £695, Shirt, £155, Tie, £95, Pocket square, £50, Flower lapel pin, £45, all Chester Barrie, as before

Black and white monogram woven silk grid single-breasted tuxedo, from £650, Bone silk hank, £70, Navy cotton silk tie, £70, all Hardy Amies, as before; Black superior cotton shirt, £225, Kilgour, as before HAIR: Dany Mikhael MAKE UP: Ruth Frances PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: Ben Duah STYLING ASSISTANT: Maciek Worowski MODEL: Richard Biedul @ Elite

THE CITY MAGAZINE | February 2016

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| style |

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | February 2016

JC Hiker boot, £625, Bally, bally.co.uk

BOOTS Look to fine shoemakers for the sturdiest of winter footwear; more than 60 artisans work on 350 pairs of shoes a week at Edward Green’s Northamptonshire factory, with processes barely changed since its founding in 1890. For a more rugged aspect, look to Bally whose A/W15 collection was themed around the urban explorer. American artist J. Cole collaborated with the brand on its chunky-soled hiker boots, where traditional wax laces meet the finest quality leather to upgrade this purely practical piece into a luxury item. circles, from top Camden in burgundy antique calf, £885, Galway in black calf and black suede, £920, Gresham in dark oak antique calf, £980, all Edward Green, edwardgreen.com

STYLE HIM

Chelsea boot, £200, Sons of London, sonsoflondon.com Enderby chukka boot, £355, Church’s, church-footwear.com

Look the part, feel the part, from Breakfast to boardroom to bar La Perla Man A/W15

Brindisi silk boxer shorts, £126, Derek Rose, derek-rose.com

Loungewear As we move into January and the Christmas party damage has already been done, staying in might suddenly seem a little more appealing. And there’s no reason not to go as upmarket in your downtime when it comes to your wardrobe – think pure cashmere jackets and the most luxurious lightweight cotton from Sunspel and nightwear stalwart Derek Rose. An old T-shirt just simply won’t do in comparison. Big name in women’s lingerie, La Perla has now moved into menswear, with extravagant pieces such as a silk kimono-style all-in-one. Sir Plus on the other hand creates its handmade British nightwear and clothing by recycling leftover fabric from top suppliers, so you can even enjoy a more environmentally friendly level of luxury. Photography Mert and Marcus

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Cashmere hoody, £425, Sunspel, sunspel.com

La Perla Man A/W15

Basel T-shirt, £70, Derek Rose, derek-rose.com

The Vermeer dressing gown, £450, Sir Plus, sirplus.co.uk

Pima cotton T-shirt, £65, Sunspel, sunspel.com

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| STYLE |

Kilgour A/W15

COATS

Cotton-twill overcoat £449, Paul Smith, paulsmith.co.uk

The first thing to be seen, a coat is a key staple to get right. For exclusivity, British brand Grace & Oliver focuses on seasonal releases and ensures that each of its pieces has limited availability. For top tailoring, trust the expertise of Savile Row’s Gieves & Hawkes, whose coats for A/W15 come in rich shades of plum and petrol blue. Keep details simple, such as a splash of colour on a neutral backdrop as seen at Bally. Contrast fabrics also work well – try a velvet trim as favoured by Burberry, or a shearling collar.

Bally A/W15

Wool-blend overcoat, £550, Hardy Amies, selfridges.com

Burberry Prorsum A/W15 Hugh coat, £495, Grace & Oliver, graceandoliver.london

Gieves & Hawkes A/W15

Wool chesterfield coat, £750, Raey, matchesfashion.com

Suede-trimmed shearling jacket, £5,930, Brioni, mrporter.com

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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| style |

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1. Floral, £60, Penrose London, barneys.om 2. Mediterraneo Silk-Twill, £95, Rubinacci, mrporter.com 3. Real Sito Di Capodimonte Printed Silk-Twill, £95, Rubinacci, mrporter.com 4. Elephant & Floral, £90, Etro, barneys.com 5. Victory Printed Silk-Twill, £95, Rubinacci, mrporter.com 6. Antique Map, from a selection, Richard James, barneys.com 7. Butterfly Pink Silk, £65, Turnbull & Asser, turnbullandasser.co.uk 8. Flowers on a Fountain with a Peacock, £69, Rampley & Co, rampleyandco.com 9. The Death of Major Peirson, £69, Rampley & Co, rampleyandco.com 10. English Wreath Print Silk, from a selection, Gucci, gucci.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| grooming |

Face: the Facts Winter is well and truly here. Don’t let it show

Fragrance-free toner

Moisturiser / SPF cream

Does your forehead shine as bright as the sun come January? Get a toner to rid your face of that excess oil. Steer clear of fragranced toners – or any smelly product for that matter – as perfume can play havoc with your skin. Men-ü’s fragrance-free gel clears the impurities from your pores, while tightening and toning. Matt ‘Skin Refresh’ Gel 100ml, £14.95, men-ü, men-u.co.uk

Moisturiser should be your first stop for winter skincare. Put it on immediately after your morning shower for optimum effect. Go for a product with good sun protection: just because it’s cold doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t reaching your skin. Malin + Goetz’s SPF 30 moisturiser protects from sun damage while gently moisturising. SPF 30 Face Moisturizer, £28, (MALIN+GOETZ), uk.spacenk.com

Chapped lips Chapped lips, chaps: they can be the bane of winter existence. Skin on the lips is five times thinner than the rest of the face, so is more susceptible to telltale cracks. Keep your lips happy with balms like Elemental Herbology’s rich-in-Buriti ‘Tree of Life’ oil, to intensively moisturise and soothe skin. Tree of Life Balm, £22, Elemental Herbology, spacenk.com

teeth You can have the best skin in the world and fall short if your pearly whites aren’t up to scratch. Philips’s electric toothbrush vibrates at 31,000 brushes per minute, and whitens teeth twice as well as your manual brush in a single week. Up to three weeks of battery life and rechargeable via USB. HX9351/04 DiamondClean Rechargeable Sonic Toothbrush, £114.99, Philips, johnlewis.com

Humidifier

beard care

Low humidity = poor skin. Dyson’s humidifier automatically senses how dry the air is and reacts accordingly. Unique UV lighting kills 99.9 per cent of all bacteria in the system’s water, meaning your skin will be revitalised. It also helps with breathing problems, so the infuriating snorer next to you will get a good night’s sleep – and so will you. Humidifier, £449.99, Dyson, dyson. co.uk

Beards can save the need for a scarf, but the skin underneath is notoriously difficult to maintain. Go for specialist beard shampoo and conditioner, and follow that with a balm. Zeus Beard Balm is unscented and packed with natural extracts to soften your beard and keep the skin beneath irritationfree – no more beard itch. Beard Balm, £18, Zeus, thebeardemporium.com

And if all else fails… The Bahamas are pretty nice this time of year. Return flights Business Class to the Bahamas, from approx. £3,000, British Airways, britishairways.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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out of office january 2016

cowboy country The romantic appeal of the american west is a tale of Fact, fiction and focklore If Leonardo DiCaprio’s The Revenant stoked within you a desire to explore the American West, then how about a horseback jaunt through Utah’s Monument Valley? Minus the movie’s cold winter, backstabbing and danger of death by bear, Monument Valley’s five square miles of vast buttes and soaring spires have come to define the image of the American frontier. Read The City Magazine’s ‘Quest for the West’ on page 104.

LIVING THE HIGH LIFE

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all over Instagram, have inspired numerous hotels and even have their own Animal Planet television programme. So, just how did grown-up treehouses ever become a thing? WORDS: HUGH FRANCIS ANDERSON

f you were lucky enough to have grown up with a garden full of trees mature enough to support the weight of a crooked hotchpotch of two-by-fours constructed by Dad, then treehouses probably kindle a special kind of magic, recalling carefree days of playing in the canopies. They may have been dangerous, perpetually wet and bitterly cold, but treehouses were the things that made your non-treehouse-owning friends

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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The Mirrorcube Treehouse, Sweden

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jealous more than anything else. So perhaps it’s in an attempt to rekindle this spirit of youth that so many people are commissioning adult versions of their childhood hideaways. In the UK, one company dominates the luxury treehouse market. Brothers Simon and Andy Payne run Sussex-based Blue Forest, and have been building souped-up treehouses since 2003. Their commissions include everything from James Bondinspired dens, with CCTV and biometric security systems, to commercial projects for large international corporations. “Treehouses are the ultimate kid’s den,” says Simon. “They capture much of the adventure and imagination that we can all associate with childhood. Treehouses embody escapism. We have built treehouses with home cinemas, hot tubs, Agas, secret rooms, escape pods, bars, kitchens, fire pits and even canopy lookout towers!” Blue Forest go so far as to employ independent arborists to help develop construction methods that do not harm the trees, including 3D laser tree surveys and air-spades (which dig by using jets of compressed air), and only ever use the most sustainable timber available.

Treehouses – Small Spaces in Nature, £49, Andreas Wenning, amazon.co.uk

CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT The Pure Package Treehouse, Surrey; Djuren by Braumraum, Germany; Pool View Treehouse, Surrey; Tegernsee by Baumhaus, Germany; Blue Forest Little Acorn Treehouse, Sussex; UFO Treehouse, Sweden; Teahouse Tetsu Treehouse by Terunobu Fujimori, Japan

“The quality and methods of construction used in our treehouses are similar, and perhaps even better, than most conventional buildings,” says Andy. “They are a very sustainable form of architecture.” Elsewhere, when German-based architect Andreas Wenning, and his firm Baumraum, builds houses in the trees, he focuses on the connection between dwellings and nature. Many of Wenning’s clients spend upwards of £150,000 on the adult incarnation of their boyhood dream. Like the brothers at Blue Forest, Wenning describes adventure as a huge factor for treehouse living. “Our clients like adventure, the cosiness of a small space and getting close to nature.” Baumraum’s Bauhaus-esque designs take direct inspiration from the works of architectural powerhouse Morphosis and industry-leading pioneer Richard Neutra, both of whom he names as personal heroes. The recent publication of Wenning’s first book, Treehouses – Small Spaces in Nature, a title which joins a long list of coffee-table books to ignite the recesses of the treehouse imagination, pays homage to his flair for design.

branching out

For those who can only dream of building their own home among the foliage, treehouse hotels have sprung up to offer you the chance of living the high life, if only for a few enchanted nights

Chewton Glen

HAMPSHIRE from £800 per night

Set in a secluded valley of Hampshire’s New Forest, The Treehouses at Chewton Glen offer guests a natural forest setting with a reassuring feeling of luxury. At around 200 to 400 metres from the Chewton Glen Hotel, guests can escape civilisation without forgoing comfort. Floor-to-ceiling glass provides panoramic views through the forest canopy to the valley beyond. The Treehouse Loft Suites feature a secret galleried bunk area for younger guests – ideal for families. chewtonglen.com

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Treehotel

sweden From £365 per night

A wide range of incredible buildings that have to be seen to be believed, alongside spectacular views of the tall pine forest and Lule River, mean that each of Treehotel’s rooms are genuinely unique. From the stunning Mirrorcube, to the overgrown Bird’s Nest, to the surreal UFO, guests can harness the wilderness of Sweden while experiencing the pinnacle of contemporary Scandinavian design. treehotel.se

Tongole Wilderness Lodge

MALAWI from £188 per night

Deep within the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, the Tongole Wilderness Lodge takes the treehouse adventure to the next level. Watch the roaming wildlife, including leopards and substantial herds of elephants, on safari during the day, and relax in the luxurious open-plan suites overlooking the Bua River by night. Exceptional dining options and locations make Tongole the only high-end lodge in the entire 1,800 km sq reserve. tongole.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

WIRELESS SPEAKERS THAT MAKE A STATEMENT

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| feature |

n yl

Revival

fact According to NME and Record Collector magazine, the UK’s most sought-after vinyl is 1958’s That’ll Be The Day/In Spite Of All The Danger by The Quarrymen (who’s members went on to form The Beatles).

In the first half of 2015, vinyl sales in the UK increased 56 per cent on the same period in 2014. This year, sales are expected to break the two million mark – accounting for almost ten per cent of music sales. David Taylor investigates what’s behind the titanic resurgence of the humble record

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“T

he four building blocks of the universe are fire, water, gravel and vinyl.” Pulitzer Prize-winning author Dave Barry might have been exaggerating, but for a rapidly growing number of people, his sentiment rings true. The first quarter of 2015 saw sales rise 69 per cent compared to the same period in 2014, which had already seen recordbreaking sales of more than nine million. The trend looks set to continue in 2016. Why has there been such resurgence in the medium? Tim Bowern, former editor of HiFi Choice magazine, believes it comes down to vinyl representing an alternative: “It’s that enduring concept of underground culture and the ‘cool kids’ backlash. Digital music – streaming and downloads – is now the mainstream, and it’s here to stay. “Vinyl is seen as authentic and real; it’s all about the grooves on Side A and Side B, putting a needle on a record and getting lost in the music. Vinyl is now the niche, not the norm; it’s alternative, part of the counter-culture.” The musical warmth of vinyl is another appeal. Ricardo Franassovici is founder

and chairman of Absolute Sounds, the UK’s leading importer and distributor of high-performance audio equipment. The “remarkable” upturn in vinyl sales is, he says, down to the unique lure of its sound: “The sound quality has an enduring magic – melodic and enchanting, imperfect but just so fluid and dynamic, devoid of digital ‘noise’. Vinyl sounds organic; it simply engages the listener with the music, despite its imperfections.” For experts like Ricardo, this doesn’t mean that the audio quality isn’t high-end: “It’s all about precision engineering – the mass of the platter, the pressure exerted on the bearing, the smoothness of the motor, the stability of the platter’s revolutions, isolation from external vibrations and so on. Manufacturers such as Continuum, EAT and TechDAS have continually refined techniques and technologies to ensure vinyl sounds better now than at any time in the past.” Michael Fremer is a globally renowned music journalist and authority on all things vinyl, and has been on a “quixotic crusade”

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

| FEature |

Where to buy Vinyl

“Manufacturers such as Continuum, EAT and TechDAS have continually

The best spots in London to rekindle your romance with records.

TURN IT UP To reach audio Nirvana, blow your bonus – and then some – on the best kit around. We’re sure your neighbours will be thrilled.

refined techniques and technologies to ensure vinyl sounds better now than at any time in the past”

to defend the format throughout its wilderness years from his base in New York City. He agrees wholeheartedly: “When properly manufactured and played back, records produce the most satisfying sound. When you consider that you’re essentially dragging a tiny stone through a vinyl canyon, that anything comes through the speakers is miraculous. “Yes, there are occasional sonic flaws, but if that’s what you concentrate on, you’d better not visit the symphony because the audience is usually old and they are constantly coughing and clearing their throats. You listen past all of that because of the compelling musical presentation.” Talk to any vinyl enthusiast and the same look will cross their eyes, the same feeling of high romance that comes from any deep connection. Ricardo puts this down to the tactile experience with each play of a record: “There is a ritual to removing vinyl from its sleeve and placing it on a turntable, like taking a cigar out of the humidor and lighting it up, or decanting a fine wine before pouring it into a glass, experiencing the bouquet and tasting. “It may lack the convenience of digital, of course, but vinyl’s physical, authentic appeal gives it a point of difference for passionate music fans.” Vinyl is here to stay. It has become the choice of a generation yearning to reconnect with authenticity, after a digital revolution that has left us all a little cold. How the tables have turned.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Sister Ray Records With a huge selection of mainstream and underground choices at both its flagship Soho store and newer Shoreditch store, within Ace Hotel, Sister Ray should probably be the first stop on your journey into vinyl. The Soho store is featured on the cover art of Oasis classic (What’s the Story?) Morning Glory, after all. 75 Berwick Street, Soho, W1F

Honest Jon’s Established in 1974, Honest Jon’s has become a must for any record addict in the capital. Its main focus is on reggae, folk, soul/ funk, jazz and world music, but you can get just about anything and the store ships worldwide. No excuse not to experience a living legend in London vinyl. 278 Portobello Road, Ladbroke Grove, W10

Flashback Records A sleek collection of stores with an oldschool approach, its website has more than 12,000 titles, but only covers half of the overall stock. The three London locations house a wide range of genres on new and second-hand vinyl, CD and DVDs. There are regular events, with in-store gigs and an artist-in-residence at the Shoreditch branch. Flagship store: 50 Essex Road, Islington, N1

Rough Trade East The East End branch of the Rough Trade Empire is a brewery conversion that sells as many CDs as Vinyl records, along with a good selection of books. Every item has a written description, to encourage a personal discovery of music. There’s a café at the front, and the stage inside has hosted gigs by bands such as Blur and Queens of the Stone Age. Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, E1

FROM TOP EAT C-Sharp, £2,500, europeanaudioteam.com EAT Forte S, from £5,300, europeanaudioteam.com TechDAS Air Force One, £69,980, techdas.jp Continuum Caliburn, £180,000, continuumaudiolabs.com

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Perchance to Dream Scientists say that we should spend a third of our time doing it, but the modern world makes getting a decent night’s sleep more of a dream than a reality. Here’s how to maximise your time in the sack

Sleepio found that persistent poor sleep resulted in a multitude of negative effects. 56 per cent of those who registered poor sleep felt helpless, in comparison to just 7 per cent of good sleepers. They were also twice as likely to have relationship problems and almost three times as likely to struggle with productivity. So, how to solve your personal insomnia? Firstly, it’s the quality, not the quantity, of sleep that’s important. Some well-known people have managed on not much more than a long blink: Margaret Thatcher famously ran the country on four hours a night; Dickens used to undertake long nocturnal walks; Madonna is awake (presumably vogue-ing) 20 hours a day; and Keith Richards once reportedly stayed awake for nine days. When he finally succumbed, it happened so suddenly that

he fell and broke his nose. Experts say: remember to switch off. All tech screens emit blue light, which supresses the production of sleep-inducing melatonin. Try turning your phone off (or at least stop looking at it) an hour before bed, to give your body the time it needs to settle down. Get off the sofa. The US National Sleep Foundation quotes a study that found half an hour of exercise every work day provided a 65 per cent improvement in sleep quality. Even if it doesn’t help with sleep, any sort of exercise in the morning will help wake you up for the day. An increasing number of apps are available to track your movements and sounds during the night to survey your snoozing. With a few lifestyle changes, and a little help from our tech friends, we might be able to sleep once again.

Bodyclock

Bodymax

GO 75

T80HR folding treadmill

Sleepcycle

leep is a mysterious phenomenon. No-one quite knows why we need it. It’s a question that most people have asked themselves as they toss and turn between the bedsheets, flipping to the cold side of the pillow so often it becomes ineffective. The more you realise you’re not asleep, the less sleep you’re able to get, existential thoughts floating around your brain, adrenalin fuelling your dry eyes. The 2012 Great British Sleep Survey by

Sleep Like a Baby

A wake-up light, or dawn simulator, can aid a restful wake from sleep. The Bodyclock GO gives you the choice of 20-, 30- or 45-minute sunrises and sunsets, and five wake-up sounds, including a dawn chorus and Big Ben. £74.95, Lumie, lumie.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Get all the benefits of a treadmill without taking up all the space. The T80HR has an LCD monitor, comes with 36 workout apps and has heart sensors to help monitor your session. £599, Bodymax, powerhouse-fitness.co.uk

Sleepcycle App This sleep tracking app has received rave reviews since its appearance in the app store. Available for both iOS and Android, it monitors sleep quality through your movements and sounds. Accurate and effective. 99p, sleepcycle.com

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Squeaky Clean Winter cold getting you down? Bloated from too much Christmas pudding? There are plenty of ways to fight back during the winter months, including the ever-popular juice cleanse. This isn’t just your regular glass of OJ, though. Here are four hardcore cleanses to try in your mission for a feel-good start to the year: THE NAT URAL JUICING COMPANY NJC ’s ext ensive range of juices are jam-packed with high-density super food s. A highlight i s ‘Purify ’, w hich i s full of chlorophyll-rich greens and cucumb er to give your body th e cleanse it n eed s. Three-day plan , from £129, The Natural Juicing Company, naturaljuicing.co.uk

Radiance Cleanse Company Radiance has recognised how hard it is to be healthy during the colder months. To help you along, the nutritionists have formulated a specific Winter cleanse, including a lemon ginger tonic to heat up your day. Three-day Winter Cleanse, from £199, Radiance, radiancecleanse.com

Imbibery Imbibery is the new cleansing kid on the block, with a great range of winterkicking concoctions including the ‘Vit C’, designed to clear sinuses and fight inflammation. Free delivery in central London means this could be a major player in your reinvigoration regime. Three-day Ultimate Variety Cleanse, £255, Imbibery, imbiberylondon.com

N o sh D etox Nosh’s emphasi s i s on high nutrients and low calories. Th ere are only 882 calories each day, but th e concentration of vitamins and min eral s m eans that you w on’t feel th e w orse for it. Three-day Super Green Vegetable Cleanse, from £239.97, Nosh D etox, noshdetox.com

Light as a feather

The latest gadget in running technology lets you know what carrying a few less kilos would feel like. The AlterG ‘anti-gravity’ treadmill inflates to support your frame in increments of one per cent, until you’re running at as low as 20 per cent of your body weight. The inflation helps neutralise impact stress and improve movement control, making it perfect for both healthy athletes and those on the road to rehabilitation. The machine can be controlled so that you go from earth to moon and back in a matter of minutes, which pushes your body even further. Balance Physio in Clapham offers half-hour sessions from £8, depending on the package. AlterG training, from £8 for 30 minutes, Balance Physio, balancephysio.com, alterg.com

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Hit the ground Reach for the stars (or maybe just your toes) as Canary Wharf helps to get you into your best shape after the indulgent party season

hether you are looking to find a new hobby or up your fitness game in the New Year, Canary Wharf are on hand with all the shops and services that you need to achieve any goal. With everything from

workout gear, technology and apparel to classes, gyms and even a healthy lunch, Canary Wharf can help to fit in a healthy lifestyle into your busy, everyday schedule with ease. You will start noticing results before the Christmas decorations are taken down. Grab the Energy Explosion Super Smoothie at Crussh to boost your energy levels before a cycle session at Psycle in the new Crossrail Place, browse for some fitness technology to keep you ahead of your game at Currys PC World, or check out a new winter running jacket at Asics that is perfect for the colder months.

Outdoor fitness Hampton jacket, Asics, Jubilee Place, £200

FITBIT Surge, Currys PC World, Canada Place, £147.99

Luxe run backpack, Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place, £90 Garmin Forerunner 630, Runner’s Need, Churchill Place, £329.99

Water bottle, Tiger, Crossrail Place, £2 Gel-Kayano 22 Lite-Show, Asics, Jubilee Place, £155

Stigmata Santa Cruz bike, Bespoke, Crossrail Place, £2000

Asics

Gym Tech Joggers, Superdry, Canada Square, £49.99

running indoor fitness

Hand weights, Waitrose, Canada Place, £39

Sirsha yoga vest, Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place, £65

Badminton set, Tiger, Crossrail Place, £6

ZPUMP Fusion shoes, Reebok Sports Shop, Canada Square, £90

Amrita yoga leggings, Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place, £75

Gaiam watercress cargo yoga mat bag, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place, £12

Plastic gym ball, Tiger, Crossrail Place, £6

An organic medium salad or soup with a 300ml juice for £10!

CPRESS, Crossrail Place

2 Psycle, Crossrail Place

Sweaty Betty

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Un-ex-Spectre’d One of the biggest surprises of last year’s James Bond epic was the appearance of Jaguar’s C-X75, cast as the villain’s car. Jennifer Mason explains why it was the perfect model for the job

“W

hat is that!?” I whispered reverently to my other half as the blood-orange beauty revved to life on the big screen, catapulting Bond villain David Bautista (a.k.a. Hinx) after 007’s bespoke Aston Martin DB10. Of course, I knew about the DB10, it had been all over the media for weeks, but this supercharged supervillain had somehow flown under my radar. As soon as the chase scene was over, I discreetly whipped out my phone (naughty, naughty) and Googled it. A Jaguar? Not what I’d expected. But looking at the rest of Spectre’s line-up, crammed with the Range Rover Sport SVR and a series of Special Operations Defenders, I should have guessed Jaguar Land Rover would have had something to do with it. “It truly is a beautiful beast of a car that will go down in movie history,” Bautista said of the C-X75. I couldn’t have put it better myself. It was mesmerising. Forget the DB10 – this Jaguar concept, designed in partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering, completely stole the show. When Jaguar first unveiled the concept in 2010, the brand originally intended to roll out a limited production line, but the decision was reversed in 2012. I hope the popularity of Bond’s latest outing will encourage them to think again. I’d love to see a few of these on the roads. After watching that chase scene, I think it’s about time the bad guy won.

Power Up Thanks to its state-of-theart, Formula 1-inspired, 1.6-litre turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine which generates 502bhp at 10,000rpm, the C-X75 can do 0-100mph in less than six seconds and has a theoretical top speed of 220mph

jaguar.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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Going Green

MASSA APPEAL

Due to its mobile battery, which has a PHEV specification that’s off the charts, the C-X75 will run for 600km in pure electric mode, causing its CO2 emissions to drop to below 89g/km

The F1 driver got behind the wheel in Mexico City: “It was a thrill to take the wheel of a real stunt car used in a Bond movie,” he said. “Jaguar partnered with Williams Advanced Engineering on the production of these stunning supercars, so it was great to experience some of what my colleagues have developed outside of F1”

Did You KNow?

Close Quarters

Although it looks the same on the surface, the C-X75 used in Spectre is actually a World Rally Championship spec car, with a 542bhp supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine

The combination of petrol and electric engines, plus the assorted battery packs and other accessories, means that the front-engine, four-wheeldrive, two-passenger, two-door coupé has no boot. At all. Not the best option for a weekend getaway, now we think about it

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

LOOKS CAN BE

DECEIVING

It may look similar to the rest of Bentleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soft-top range, but the Continental GTC V8 S benefits from more than just a facelift. Liam Bird discovers how modest changes make all the difference

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

“T

hat’s one of the nicest Bentleys I’ve ever seen,” whispers a colleague, as Keith, Bentley’s ever-affable delivery driver, wheels a bright red Continental GTC V8 S out of his transporter and into the morning sun. He then adds, “But, what makes this one different from the last one that arrived?” It’s a fair question. To the more casual observer the GTC V8 S does indeed look little different from any other soft-top member (GTC) of Bentley’s Continental range. To those in the know, however, distinguishing a V8 S Continental from its larger 6-litre W12 brethren is easy. For starters, on the V8s, the winged badges on the boot-lid and the nose have a red background rather than the more usual black one, and the oval exhausts have been pinched at their middles so as to shape them like figure 8s. The biggest giveaway is the grille: black mesh replaces chrome. But you can almost bet some well-heeled owners will spec

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Bentley Continental GT V8 S the vitals Engine 3993cc twin-turbo V8 32V Petrol Power 521 bhp @ 6000rpm Torque 502 lb ft @ 1,700rpm Transmission ZF 8-speed automatic with Quickshift & 4WD Performance 0-62mph 4.5 sec

a shiny one, if they’re allowed to. A new, subtle, front splitter, fitted to reduce front-end lift, sill extensions and a rear diffuser, all finished in gloss black, together with some discreet badges on the front wings point out the S models. And, if the wheel-arches, as in our case, are filled with 7-spoke 21-inch rims, the optional Mulliner pack has been fitted as well.

Overtaking anything is contemptuously easy S models sit lower too, albeit by just 10mm, as a result of their stiffened suspension, firmer bushes, and revised damping. Bentley’s chassis boffins have also tweaked the steering in order to make it, they say, more responsive, more sporting, and more precise. Of course, not all of the upgrades are merely cosmetic; the engine’s also been fettled. The 4.0-litre twin-turbo now

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produces 521bhp (up from an already generous 500), and a gargantuan 502 lb ft of torque that makes itself available from a somewhat relaxed 1,700 rpm. Delivered to all four wheels via the Continental’s 8-speed close-ratio automatic gearbox, that heavy-hitting combination means whatever the situation, whatever the gear, the GTC V8S’s performance feels effortless. Overtaking anything is contemptuously easy, and the (optional) sports exhaust’s accompanying 8-cylinder-symphony, that ranges from muted American muscle-car woofle all the way up to hard-edged pistonengined fighter-plane, is, quite simply, intoxicating. You can opt for a bespoke Naim for Bentley digital hi-fi system, but with GTC’s four-layered roof folded back, on your favourite road on a sunny day, the tunes you can play with your right foot and the slender column-mounted paddleshifters render it virtually superfluous. Should, however, you not be in the mood for grabbing the GTC by the scruff

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Bentley Continental GT V8 S the vitals Max speed 191mph MPG 25.9 combined CO2 254g/km Price from £152,900

of its neck, it’s also supremely capable of playing the long-distance GT card just as well. When cruising, thanks to what’s known as cylinder de-activation, the V8 S runs as a V4. The result, a near 3 tonne car that sips, rather than slurps, its unleaded. Granted 25.9 mpg is hardly anything to shout about, but even if your budget does stretch to a Bentley unless you’ve also got shares in petrochemicals, any extra mpg, however it’s derived, can only be an bonus. So, then, what of the associated costs of the GTC V8 S? Well, even before you’ve perused the option list, prices start at £152,900. Add extra luxuries and you’re soon looking at the kind of prices that would bag a nice little two-up-two-down in the provinces. Nevertheless, no other bespokebuilt, four-seater, leather-lined, 191mph convertible I can think of is quite so capable of making you look like a million dollars. bentleymotors.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

TECH TALK

Essential apparatus for keeping ahead of the curve

Orpheus Awakens Start the New Year with some clarity by investing in unbeatable sound quality

First electrostatic headphones to have highvoltage amplifiers integrated into the ear cups

Frequency range: 8 Hz – 100 kHz

2.4 micrometre, platinum-vaporised diaphragm and goldvaporised ceramic transducers for incredibly precise sound reproduction

HEV 1060 Vacuum Tube amplifier for ultra-high impulse fidelity

’d never truly been in love with an inanimate object until I was introduced to Sennheiser’s new Orpheus headphone system. The original Orpheus, created more than 20 years ago, pushed the boundaries of audio technology into revolutionary territory – some of the 300 sets made are still being resold online for £30,000, which shows you its influence. That was in 1991. This edition blows it out of the water.

I chose two tracks: Jamie Cullum and Gregory Porter’s version of Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood, and Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here. The first, a rich version of a Jazz classic, was made even richer by the four parallel channels in each ear cup, reducing the distortion level to almost nothing. The second, a song in my all-time top five, was a revelation. There were aspects of the track – a track I’ve listened to thousands of times – that

I had never experienced before, a subtle thumping percussion underlying the high treble, guitar flicks indiscernible through other headphones, but made vital here. A technician told me that other lucky listeners had said it changed the way they thought about the music they loved. I can see – or, more accurately, hear – exactly why. DT The new Orpheus, £40,000, Sennheiser, sennheiser.com

Astell & Kern

Quad

AK Jr Red

S Series

Revo

REDEFINING THE AUDIO INDUSTRY

Astell & Kern’s AK Jr Red boasts the widest music format support out there, weighs just 93 grams, and the 64GB of internal memory can be ramped up with extra cards – an advantage over certain other music players. £399, Astell&Kern, astellnkern.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

Distinguished British audio brand Quad has released a new range in time for its 79th birthday. The S Series combines high tech with classic aesthetics, offering a luxurious, nuanced sound. From £499.95 per pair, Quad, quad-hifi.co.uk

SuperConnect The Revo is a one-stop shop for design, performance and connectivity. It’s FM and DAB enabled, with internet radio through WiFi, Bluetooth and Spotify Connect. From £279.95, Revo, revo.co.uk

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a sight to behold

Tuneful Tapestry Art has a new medium. Soundwall offers canvases that double up as speakers to combine visual and audio beauty in the home. Every Soundwall piece creates a unique link between the artist and collector, with bespoke playlists complementing the collector’s choice of artwork. Canvas choices range from high-end photography to original artwork from a variety of modern artists. With the app, artists can update their music collections, to further develop the art they have already created, and collectors can request new playlists. Handcrafted in Colorado, quality is not forsaken for novelty. Soundwall canvases, from £220, Soundwall, soundwall.com

After two wildly successful crowdfunding campaigns (£800,000 and £1.2m), Panono Camera is ready to ship its first batch of throwable panoramic ball cameras. The premise is simple: throw the ball into the air, and at its highest point, the device will automatically take a full 360-degree, 108 megapixel panoramic photo of its surroundings using 36 internal cameras. It comes with 16GB, enough for 600 panoramic shots, and has an iOS and Android compatible app. The first batch is ready to go, with UK shipping time approximately four weeks. It’s limited to 1,000 devices though, so get moving. Panono Explorer Edition, £1,100 (approx), panono.com

grey is the new black Leica has introduced a new camera to its compact range, and it’s a beauty. The Leica D-Lux ‘Solid Gray’ is a variation on the current black D-Lux, with two-tone silver and grey styling lending the new model a vintage feel, with modern tech to back it up. The DC Vario-Summilux lens and accompanying zoom give users the ability to gain perfect results in a wide range of genres, from portraits to landscapes to reportage photography – the signature Leica territory. Add to this the camera’s 4K capability and ability for wireless control, and you have a camera that feels like a traditional model, but does so much more. D-Lux ‘Solid Gray’, £825, Leica, leica-camera.com

Smashing idea Smashed your phone or dropped in down the loo? No problem. iSmash specialises in the repair and personalisation of phones, tablets and computers. The iSmash experts can deal with practically everything, from a cracked screen to software diagnosis, and have expertise in a wide range of brands, including Apple, Samsung and Sony. Repairs are done in as little as fifteen minutes, and with four new stores across London, including Fenchurch Street, it’s never been easier to sort your phone post-drop, -smash or -splash. iSmash, Fenchurch Place, EC3M

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

HOLD… AND RELEASE Mark & Hannah Hayes-Westall have been working in, and writing about, contemporary art on and off for almost 20 years. Each month they introduce an artist that should appear on your agenda

This month: STEFAN BEHLAU space amid the noise. Behlau, who divides his time between Brussels and Santa Barbara, has developed a semi-automated process of creating work, meticulously preparing canvas, paints and materials then allowing the paint to splash and pool before letting an aluminum blade spread it across the canvas, saying he

Colour is chosen from colour card layouts, acrylic colour sketches, even the colour palettes of works by other artists “doesn’t want the control of wielding a paintbrush”. At each stage, he has endeavoured to remove himself from the process, ceding ownership of the decisions that traditionally define authorship of an artwork to chance. Colour is chosen from colour card layouts, acrylic colour sketches, even the colour

Wearing Ellsworth’s Hat All Wrong, 2015

What’s so interesting? In an age where the scientific advances that have allowed experts unprecedented access to the emotions that drive our behaviour have been seized upon by brand marketers, and our media landscape saturated with direct appeals to our deepest motivations, meeting an artist striving to remove themselves and their emotions from their art is a rare treat. Swiss-born Stefan Behlau does just this, with a body of work that in its refusal to engage provides a still, clear

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

FIND the WORK PM/AM, 259-269 Old Marylebone Road, London NW1 pmam.org Squad, 2015

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Meditation Pop, 2015

Untilted III, 2015

Bridget II, 2015

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palettes of works by other artists that Behlau admires. In one series, Nova Color, works directly reference the colour cards of paint firm Nova Color in California, while the painting Wearing Ellsworth’s Hat All Wrong has its roots in a yellow and white Ellsworth Kelly painting. It’s an interesting approach for a traditionally trained artist and a conscious one. With a BFA in drawing from New York’s prestigious Pratt Institute, Behlau’s understanding of art history situates his work alongside some of the most influential artists of recent times. In the artist’s embrace of chance and automation as the central drivers of creation and the rejection of the idea that the artist and their emotions are central to the creative process, comes an echo of the thinking that drove Warhol’s Factory and Lichtenstein’s comic book paintings. It’s an idea underscored by works such as Meditation Pop (2015) and Bridget II (2015), which takes its colour palette from a work by the acclaimed British op artist Bridget Riley. For an artist to reject the very idea of painting – he refers to his work as “a straightforward presentation of paint” instead – and to celebrate the removal of painterly engagement instead is a brave act, speaking to a perhaps unfashionable admiration for emotional regulation. On the flipside of control is chaos, and Behlau’s semiautomated process venerates chance, the possibility of the meticulous planning ending in disaster, perhaps evident in the title of a recent solo show of the artist’s work. Entitled BANZAI, the show took its name from the term shouted by Californian surfers before they pitch down a gnarly wave. Stefan Behlau has featured in solo and group exhibitions in both Germany and America. In November 2015, the artist’s first institutional show, a dual exhibition with Dennis Loesch, entitled Good Morning, Hallo opened at the G2 Kunsthalle in Leipzig. THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

EICHHOLTZ ROYAL MARINE FLOOR LAMP Let there be light this winter with a marine-inspired floor lamp from Eichholtz. Featuring a solid wood compass-style base, and complementary antique brass accessories, the Royal Marine is both a unique and timeless home accessory. £1,100, houseology.com

kartell sparkle stool LSA CIRRO VASE When the Christmas decorations come down in January, the house can often look a little bare. Give your home a new lease of life with a touch of colour in the form of this gorgeous mouthblown LSA vase. £40, lsa-international.com

When Skies Are Grey Baby it’s cold outside – you’d better stay indoors. Why wait until spring to give your home a refresh, chances are your house needs a little spruce-up after the festive season words: tiffany eastland

For a touch of decadent décor, you can’t look past Kartell’s sparkle stool. Featuring a pleated design which reflects the light, and a removable lid, for a versatile storage solution, this stool is both impact- and scratchresistant, meaning it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use. £170, amara.com

Missoni Home Oswin Throw Keep cosy with this beautiful bold, textured throw from Missoni Home, which is made in Italy and available in several colours. When combined with complementing cushions, you have yourself a fabulous fashionforward home. £236, amara.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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| OUT OF OFFICE | JEAN-PHILIPPE DELHOMME PRINT Capturing Dries Van Noten’s A/W 2008 parade, this stunning print will be right at home in a vibrant interior. A masterpiece from JeanPhilippe Delhomme, the print comes signed, numbered and dated by the artist. £400, fashionillustrationgallery.com

DAVID LINLEY DECO TUB CHAIR A best seller since 2001, David Linley’s Deco Tub Chair was inspired by the 1920s Art Deco movement. Now available in vibrant Wild Flower Velvet, this Linley lust-have provides energy to an otherwise dull interior. £4,000, davidlinley.com

JONATHAN ADLER’S BERGMAN BENCH The Bergman Bench by Jonathan Adler is another versatile piece that could easily work at the foot of your bed or opposite a sofa. Featuring a simple yet elegant design, the Bergman Bench exudes luxury and creates a truly sumptuous interior. £1,745, uk.jonathanadler.com

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DARJEELING CANDLE 200G Approach the New Year with positivity in the form of T London’s beautiful Darjeeling candle. Inspired by the tea gardens and hill stations in the east Indian Himalayas, the Darjeeling candle can be relied upon to fill a room with a truly revitalising fragrance. £32, t-london.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

window galleries The Art and Design Window Galleries located in Canada Place showcase up-and-coming artists, designers and craftspeople. Showing this month are:

VISUAL ARTS Take a break to explore and enjoy Canary Wharf’s temporary exhibitions and permanent art collection around the estate

11 January – 12 February Lobby, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf Open daily/FREE

Nathaniel Rackowe: The Luminous City

John Rogers Art, Canada Walk John set up Durbin Lewis Ltd as a fictional brand/dealership, creating sumptuous images using different photographic processes that subvert and transform furniture and artefacts from previous eras, such as the Victorian epoch, in order to question and expose ideas of value and consumption. durbinlewis.com

To coincide with Winter Lights @ Canary Wharf, the first sculpture exhibition of the year in the Lobby of One Canada Square is The Luminous City, showing large-scale installations by British artist Nathaniel Rackowe. Nathaniel’s practice is a continued investigation into the interplay of light and structure in the built environment. Examining the visual experience of moving through an urban landscape, he seeks to capture the transcendental moments the city provides, using industrial materials such as fluorescent tubing, breeze blocks and bitumen. His architectural forms, uncompromisingly minimal, have the raw beauty of shafts of streetlight falling on wet pavements. The exhibition is curated by House of the Nobleman, a London-based organisation comprising art advisory, private dealership and curatorial practice. Its work is international in scope and ranges from producing exhibitions and events to art and design sourcing. rackowe.com; houseofthenobleman.com

Jessica Marsh Design, Jubilee Walk Jessica’s jewellery collection explores the possibility of visualising the sense of touch. The central elements represent an individual fleeting moment of a hand’s touch, highlighting the tiny detailed skin texture that tells us where our body ends and the outer world begins. Cast in bronze, the skin, usually moving and flexible, has become something permanent and rigid. The outer silverwork is a scaled-up detail of a section of this intricate skin. jessicarosemarsh.com

Nathaniel Rackowe - Black Shed Expanded, 2014, at Lawrie Shabibi, Dubai

EVENTS

Gonzalo Bascunan & Perrine Vichet – Flawless

Enjoy Canary Wharf’s Winter Lights Festival this January

Julius Popp - bit.fall

Daan Roosegaarde – Liquid Space 6.1

Philips Lighting Design – Aura (2014)

Bitone – Totem

Tom Wilkinson - Light Sphere 1

Winter Lights Festival @ Canary Wharf 11-22 January Throughout Canary Wharf Daily 4-9pm/free

he sculptures, structures and installations on display are the creations of some of the most innovative artists and designers around today, presenting work in a diversity of different forms of light technology. Together, the artists represent four continents showcasing projects that are interactive, performance or visual spectacles to be admired from close up or afar. Many pieces explore how we communicate in the modern world. Julius Popp’s bit.fall taps into live news feeds creating a digital typography waterfall and Bitone’s Totem responds to the presence of mobile phone signals around it. Other

installations such as Jen Lewin’s The Pool encourages viewers to physically touch and engage with it and create visual and audio reactions. Best seen after 4pm, all the installations and light effects come alive throughout the evening until 9pm so join us and experience a wealth of inventive and spectacular creativity illuminating Canary Wharf. Appealing to art lovers, lighting enthusiasts, families and the young and old, there is something for everyone as soon as dusk falls and all for free. Due to their nature, light installations do use energy. Canary Wharf is committed

to a ‘green policy’ of reducing energy usage and recycling as much as is possible. All the installations are made as energy efficient as possible, using mains power instead of generators and using LED lighting. Transportation of artworks and equipment is combined to reduce the number of journeys, using electric vehicles around the estate, and local contractors are used as much as possible. We also encourage visitors to use public transport to visit the event. For all the latest Canary Wharf news, promotions and events follow us on Twitter @yourcanarywharf

Getting to Canary Wharf couldn’t be easier – travel on public transport via Jubilee Line, DLR Canary Wharf or Heron Quays or the Thames Clippers river bus or there are four underground public car parks at Canary Wharf. At weekends and Bank Holidays you can enjoy 3 hours’ free parking in any of our public car parks when you spend £10 at any of Canary Wharf’s shops, cafés, bars or restaurants. Or spend £10 in Waitrose Fashion, Food & Home Monday to Friday and enjoy 2 hours’ free parking. Canary Wharf has extensive cycle parking and over 200 Santander Cycles hire docking stations. There is free O2 WiFi for everyone in Canary Wharf, simply select O2 WiFi in your settings for free, fast and easy access in all public areas. Details correct at time of publication but may be subject to change.

Langhe Overdue Named Italy’s 50th UNESCO World Heritage Site, Piedmont’s Langhe wine region is finally getting the recognition it deserves, writes Chris Allsop

La Morra

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

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“I

t’s Italian style,” says my guide, Fiammetta, laughing and buckling her seat belt simultaneous with steering the aged Panda around a sharp bend. After experiencing this procedure following two tastings (had she spat every glass?) and a wine-fuelled three-course lunch, I’d suggested, milquetoast Brit that I am, that perhaps buckling up while stationary was prudent? By the side of the road a grey-haired local steps back onto the verge, her lips pursed as we speed by. I’m in Piedmont, north-west Italy, swerving around the graceful contours of the Langhe wine region. Last June, the Langhe – along with the neighbouring Roero and Monferrato appellations – was declared Italy’s 50th UNESCO site. Located south of Alba, its snaking northern border designated by the broad Tanaro river, the Langhe is famous for big, bold reds vinified from the peevish Nebbiolo vines planted in its €1m-per-hectare clay-rich soil. For many, the honour is long overdue – viticulture here dates back to Roman times – but the upside to this neglect is that the Langhe’s lyrical sweep of hilltops

Langhe’s lyrical sweep of hilltops encrusted with castles remains unpoiled encrusted with sun-blushed villages, castles, and Romanesque church towers remains unspoiled. It’s not like it’s hard to reach: only a couple of hours on one of the regular BA flights from London to Piedmont’s capital of Turin (the Langhe is an hour and a half drive south of the city). While comfy in BA Club, how about selecting the robust South African Pinotage (eschewing the gutless Merlot blend as you pass over France) to prepare your palate for the twin tannic majesties of Barolo and Barbaresco, whose namesake towns lie within the Langhe. In spring and summer, when the temperature rises, it’s Tuscany without the crowds. In October –when I visit – the Tanaro is turned slate-blue by the rains and the vine leaves are freckled with autumn colour. Doughy mist collects in

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THREE VINEYARDS TO VISIT

Ceretto, Monsordo Bernardina Estate

the valleys, rising as the day warms to expose patchwork slopes stitched with yellow (Nebbiolo) and dark (Barbera) and light (Dolcetto) reds. I’m staying on one of these photogenic hillsides at the ‘Barolo-Cru Resort’ Palas Cerequio – its plush caveau stocks 6,000 bottles from 50 Barolo vintages dating back to 1958. The resort is a renovated palace, as the name suggests, built in 1781 and revived by winemaker Michele Chiarlo and his family. Each of the rooms laid with magisterial terrazzo tile are named after Barolo crus, and the minibar in Villero has the residual whiff of honeyed garlic – the perfumed promise of Tuber magnatum pico or the famous Alba white truffle (the truffle festival is held every weekend in October and November). The modern reputation of both truffle and Barolo were made in the latter half of the 20th century – the latter by the collective efforts of innovative producers who tamed ‘traditional’ Barolo’s loutish tannins and greatly reduced the maturation period required to render it drinkable. The modern version, which adheres to quality assurance DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) guidelines, is aged for a minimum of three years before release and made from 100 per cent Nebbiolo (as is Barbaresco). The wine produced has an orange, brickish hue, while a heady blend of roses, violets, tar, truffles, tobacco and prunes can be found in the nose and on the palate. With time to kill before Fiammetta arrives, I hike the 20 minutes from Palas Cerequio to the village of La Morra – one of the five key subzones of the Barolo DOCG. Blue-grey lizards slip through the cobbles, and its tiny summit somehow supports several cathedral-sized buildings. It’s idyllic now, with a group of cyclists enjoying white wine as a reward for their hill climb, but, back in the day, they’d lop off a hand if

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

you cut down a Nebbiolo vine. And if you were unlucky, they hanged you. “It’s been a rainy summer,” says winemaker Pietro Ratti, shrugging, while giving me a tour of his modernised cellars near La Morra. Pietro’s father, Renato Ratti, was one of the chief Barolo innovators in the 60s. “It will not be an excellent year,” Pietro continues. “Good, but… when you are used to excellent…” He shrugs. Last October, Wine Spectator rated Ratti’s Barolo Rocche dell’Annunziata 2010 at 95 points. We pause before a break in his cellar’s tall concrete walls, where the raw blue clay and limestone terroir is left bare for inspection. Afterwards, Fiammetta and I have lunch in family-run Antica Torre in Barbaresco, in the shadow of the village’s distinctive square tower. Naturally, we drink Barbaresco – a cherry and spice 2009 bottle produced by the respected Produttori del Barbaresco cooperative – while eating ribbons of rich tajarin pasta covered in flakes of white truffle. Bill Clinton, when he was president, enjoyed Antica Torre’s handmade tajarin so much that he flew chef Cinto Albarello over to cater for the White House. Every Italian that I drink with admits a reluctant preference for Barbaresco over the heavier ‘wine of kings, king of wines’ Barolo. After lunch, we walk off about half a noodle of tajarin touring the tiny village – passing by the high stone walls of Gaja where moderniser Angelo had full-blooded rows with his traditionalist father en route to creating perhaps the Langhe’s most illustrious brand – before it’s time to get back into the Panda and on to the next tasting. As I nervously side-eye Fiammetta’s unengaged seat belt, perhaps I should have taken heart from the local history: tradition is all well and good, but safe did not the Langhe make. palascerequio.it; langheroero.it

A 19th century farmstead on the outskirts of Alba turned Bond villain HQ (see: the Grape viewing platform). The Ceretto family is known for its Barolos as well as Blangé – a refreshing Arneis white that is a national aperitif obsession. ceretto.com

Gaja, Barbaresco In the 1960s, Angelo Gaja joined the family business and became ‘the undisputed king of Barbaresco’ by introducing modern techniques that elevated Barbaresco wine to new heights. Search Gaja at bbr.com

Renato Ratti, Annunziata Di La Morra Moderniser Renato Ratti was the first to vinify a Barolo from a single vineyard (Barolo Marcenasco, 1965). His son Pietro’s recent vintages are establishing him as one of the Langhe’s most exciting young winemakers. renatoratti.com

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Bear

necessities Chris Allsop gets face-to-face with the world’s largest land carnivore, courtesy of a Polar bear safari on Manitoba’s frostbitten fringe

“I

t starts with: ‘Hey, buddy, how are you?’” Curly-haired Andy MacPherson, the lead guide at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge in Manitoba, Canada, is explaining to our eight-strong group how, by treating an overfamiliar polar bear like a surly drunk, he deters it from savaging us; Churchill Wild, Andy’s employer, specialises in polar bear safaris conducted on foot. Physically, Andy isn’t reassuring: short, personable, nerdy – more rough-and-ready researcher than chiselled Arctic bouncer. What does prove reassuring, over several days with multiple bear encounters, is his unflappable

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cool. And the shotgun. Getting to Nanuk is an adventure in itself. The lodge, marooned on the shoreline of Hudson Bay, is accessible only by air. My final of four connections is in an eight-seater Otter out of Churchill, nicknamed the Polar Bear Capital of the World (the town had to secure its dump after the amount of polar bears it attracted became problematic, and local children are forbidden to dress as ghosts at Halloween). As we flew low over a mauve river-mouth bleeding out through the bay’s endless mudflats, my ear guards muffling the worst of the engine whine,

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“Ursus Maritimus

is the world’s largest land carnivore – brown bears that have evolved for a life on ice and

ocean”

I was surprised at how clearly I could make out the polar bears below, idling on the beaches, twisting their long white necks skyward. Ursus maritimus is the world’s largest land carnivore – brown bears that have evolved for a life on ice and ocean. The larger males can grow up to a weight of one tonne and stand eight feet tall. They have a sprinting speed of around 19 miles per hour (one of Nanuk’s golden rules with bears is ‘Never Run’). They are ‘ambush hunters’. All of which makes me wonder, as we bump down onto Nanuk’s sandy airstrip, why we’re not landing within the 10 feet-high wire perimeter. Why they haven’t cleared away the encroaching scrub. Nanuk, a former goose-hunting lodge, has been operated by Churchill Wild since 2010, but this is the first season since they finished all the renovations (materials are hauled across ice roads when the bay freezes over). Close to a denning site, it’s especially ideal for observing polar bear mothers and their cubs. Guests at Nanuk, usually wielding bullhorn-sized £3,000 zoom lenses, are driven in custom-built buggies called Rhinos to within about two hundred metres of a bear. Then they dismount and approach. Lead guide Andy finishes his safety briefing – vocal hails are followed by rock-throwing, firing noisy blanks, bear-grade pepper spray, and, last resort, deploying the twelve gauge – and we jump up onto the Rhinos. Then a shadow drifts up to the compound’s west fence. Someone whispers: “Black wolf ”, and a thrill runs through us. The surrounding bog land and forest is home to a startling array of bucket-list fauna. In the three days that I’m there I see polar and black bears, bald eagles, beluga whales, the snout of a wary moose buried in the brush, and, perhaps most notably for its rarity, this black wolf. It disappears as soon as the first person dismounts the buggies. Judging it a good omen, we drive out into the dominion of the bear. The Hudson is a cinematic landscape,

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an immense vista of light and sand contained by a saw-toothed perimeter of black spruce. The tidal shift on such level terrain means that the flats exposed can run out for up to ten kilometres. Bear-spotting forays tend to be confined to high tide in order to push the bears, patrolling the water’s edge for carrion, nearer to shore. As we leave deep tread marks in sulphurous mud black as tar – to stop them sinking the Rhinos are built of aluminium and have tractor wheels – Andy talks about behaviour that he’s observed at another, more northerly lodge. The polar bears there have figured out how to hunt the white sea-kayaksized beluga whales. “A bear waited on a rock The six-night ‘Mothers and Cubs’ in the shallows,” Andy says, experience with Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge (churchillwild.com) is available for a lead-in while simultaneously price of £5,175 (including international navigating the Rhino through flights) from Frontier Canada a river-mouth. “Then it (frontier-canada.co.uk). For more jumped in and disappeared information on Canada go to destinationcanada.com, and for before popping up 100 feet Manitoba see away with the kill.” travelmanitoba.com. Up ahead, the lead buggy driven by Albert ‘Butch’ Saunders – a Cree who has worked at the lodge since 1979 – has stopped. There’s two polar bears stationary on a sand bar. The keenness of the guides’ sight, their ability to discern between an inert bear and the thousands of bear-sized rocks littering the terrain, approaches the paranormal. We drive a little closer before crunching down onto the wet sand in our wellies to continue on foot. A wind whips up, shivering the amethyst grasses populating the dwindling no-man’s land between us and the animals. The bears, however, are entirely still. Watching us. We play follow-the-leader with Andy, minimising our silhouette so as not to challenge our quarry. Closer, we can clearly make out the mother and her cub. The larger bear sniffs the air. I think back to the safety rule: never feed the bear or entice it with food. At about 100 yards out, the skittish mother bolts in the opposite direction. Her chunky cub hustles along behind her. Our group takes the sand bar and we watch, and photograph, their behaviour from a distance of about 50 feet. There’s a fragility and a social intelligence that’s unexpected, a side not so readily explored on wildlife shows more intent on serving up the mauled seal money shot. We return to Nanuk satisfied, sharing our impressions over rare caribou steaks served with sinusblowing horseradish. At midnight, I’m woken by an urgent knocking at my door. Wondering whether it’s bear, moose or wolf, I go outside to find the northern lights wavering across a brilliant night sky. Bucket-list bonanza.

NEED TO KNOW

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QUEST for Rowena Marella-Daw slips on the boots, dons the Stetson, saddles up with her ‘pardner’ and goes in search of iconic America

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the west

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We found ourselves at the entrance of southern Utah’s great Zion National Park, where a chocolatecoloured road snaked round towering mesas, buttes, narrow slot canyons and beautiful arches

Zion National Park

“T

hat’ll be the day”, drawls John Wayne from our TV screen as my husband Terry and I watch the legendary John Ford 1956 western The Searchers, filmed on location in America’s iconic Monument Valley. Aside from enjoying the film, we were getting suitably primed for our imminent journey to southern Utah, and to fulfilling Terry’s lifelong western-fanboy dream of riding across the Valley’s vast plains. I knew I might have to be Tonto to his Lone Ranger for a few days, but a gal’s gotta do what a gal’s gotta do. Our road trip to Monument Valley began in Pasadena and took us on a lengthy drive along the Interstate 15 through backwater towns, Arizona’s desert landscapes and the surreal realm of Las Vegas. Beyond Beaver Dam though, the terrain changed, exciting the senses with every twist and turn, punctuated by huge canyons, majestic bluffs and rock. Eight hours later we found ourselves at the entrance of southern Utah’s great Zion National Park, where a chocolatecoloured road snaked round towering mesas, buttes, narrow slot canyons and beautiful arches spread across 229 square miles. Every bend revealed another spellbinding view. Ancient Indian tribes, pioneer settlers, explorers – all once gazed at these very same swirling patterns in the pink stone and traversed the same mighty red sandstone cliffs of striated contortions carved by geological forces over a period of 150 million years. Stopping to stretch our legs on this prehistoric terrain, it felt almost unreal. But modern reality soon kicked in with a 1.1mile drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel tunnel, lit only by slivers of light squeezing through six narrow windows carved out of the rugged cliff walls. Even the hardiest trailblazers need to make camp and rustle up some grub, so hitching the wagon at a luxury cabin on Zion Mountain Ranch felt just perfect. Set amid sprawling farmland in Mt Carmel, this estate proudly hosts a herd of buffalo grazing on open prairie in close proximity to guest cabins. This herd of around 50 are protected, far luckier than buffalo that once roamed the Great Plains by the millions. Their numbers dwindled, no thanks to white hunters that

slaughtered them almost to extinction not only for their hides, but to deprive the Indians of their sustenance, ultimately forcing them onto the reservations. Our quest for the West continued with a visit to Kanab city in Utah’s Kane County, where the deep valleys flanked by distinctive rocks and canyons have featured in numerous movies, including Mackenna’s Gold and The Outlaw Josey Wales, plus scores of TV Western series from the 1950s and 1960s. Classic shows such as Gunsmoke, Wagon Train, and the original Lone Ranger were filmed at the Kanab Canyon Movie Ranch (now the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary) and nearby Johnson Canyon. A mosey past antique and gift shops took us to Kanab’s Little Hollywood movie museum, which houses a replica Western town with authentic sets and a small main street that just begs for a good-guy/bad-guy showdown. And just a few gallops away, the nostalgic Parry Lodge, a charming 1960s hotel, played host to the stars who filmed in the area. After bacon, beans n’ coffee, it was time to holler wagons roll and forge yonder into the great Wild West. After crossing into Navajo territory, we checked in at the famous Gouldings Lodge, which sits loftily against a sheer red rockface overlooking Monument Valley. My pardner was quick to inform me that this place served as the army headquarters of Captain Nathan Brittles, played by John Wayne in the 1946 western She Wore a Yellow Ribbon, along with another of his cavalry sagas, Fort Apache. Captain Brittles’ cabin from the film still stands behind the lodges, and the museum next door is crammed with memorabilia and images of the area’s film locations. With our prize destination in sight, we loaded the pack-mules and prepared to ride boldly, heading thatta-way to the famed Monument Valley Tribal Park, the one distinct place, perhaps more than any, that conjures up the definitive Western backdrop. From high above the valley we rattled along in our hire-car down a seemingly endless dirt-track trail, gasping all the while at the magnificent natural monuments: West and East Mittens, Merrick Butte, then slowly winding our way down past more mystical

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where to stay formations: Three Sisters, The Hub, Elephant Butte, Rain God Mesa and Totem Pole. “Any second now, we’ll see Apaches on the ridge, then here come the US Cavalry, kicking up dust, trumpets blaring.” Terry’s movie-buff imagination was already in overdrive. Once at the valley floor, visitors have the choice to explore the Valley either in a safari-style vehicle or on a sturdy mount. Any self-respecting cowpoke will choose the latter, and on finding the designated corral of our tour company, we were introduced to our horses. We were expecting a posse of fellow riders, but that day it was just us and a Navajo Indian guide who, like the horses, had seen it all before. The length of the ride was up to us, even with the tempting offer of staying overnight in a Hogan – a genuine Navajo Indian hut out in the wilds. We opted for a three-hour ride, probably the wisest choice for a couple of tenderfoots. The weather was perfect – an early morning chill and a few scattered clouds casting shadows over the rocks. We mounted up (with help), adjusted our stirrups and set out from the aptly named ‘John Wayne Trail’, riding gently into the heart of the valley. The horses casually navigated a trail they knew like the back of their hooves – up and down steep ridges, through narrow gulches, past huge caves. Settings we’d seen on film, canvas and print came vividly alive all around us. For me it was a magical moment. For my trusty sidekick it was quite simply a cowboy dream fulfilled. This is Navajo Nation, where the soul of the native Indians still pervades. We heard it in their language, saw it in their features. Their gentle demeanour belies a strong sense of pride and respect for traditions. The trappings of 21st century life seem to have little impact on their connection with these sacred grounds. To illustrate this, halfway through the ride we dismounted next to a expansive cave where our guide pointed to one of many petroglyphs carved around the region by Anasazi Indians that once occupied these territories. The highlight of our cowboy experience was a visit to John Ford Point, an iconic rock precipice jutting high over the valley. The image of John Wayne looking out from here was immortalised by veteran director Ford, and this same location was used in the recent movie The Lone Ranger. This spot has to be the most photographed of all, and sixgun Terry wasn’t going to leave without one. Finally, as the music swelled and the end credits rolled, we dismounted reluctantly, stamped off the red dust from our boots and said goodbye to our guide and horses. At this point the wind was kicking up a mild sandstorm, but we didn’t care. This was a true bucket-list moment, and in our best cowboy drawl we declared: “That sure was one helluva ride!”

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Horse riding tours: Several companies offer a range of horse riding itineraries around the Monument Valley Tribal Park, such as Roy Black’s riding Tour (blacksmonumentvalleytours.com) and Sacred Monument Tours (monumentvalley.net/horse)

Zion Mountain Ranch

Our ‘little house on the prairie’, one of several dotted around, would have been considered a mansion in the days of Wyatt Earp. These western-style cabins are kitted out with 21st-century mod-cons, but styled with a rustic ‘Old West’ feel. Our Zion Sauna Lodge, as the name suggests, features a sauna in the master bedroom, accessed through swinging saloon doors. Cowboys hankering for a quiet evening will find a barbecue pit and campfire area on the back porch overlooking the open range. And when the last cinders have faded, you just have to lie back and watch the heavenly constellations cramming the night sky. zmr.com

Amangiri

Mid-way between Kanab and Monument Valley lies a very special place within the depths of Canyon Point. Pioneers in their own right, the owners of Amangiri decided this was the perfect location to build a five-star retreat that blends with its sacred surroundings. The Aman brand is known for its understated elegance, but why would any modern cowboy choose to spend the night here? For starters, it’s not often you get to swim in a pool that wraps around a canyon rock that’s millions of years old. The suite’s sprawling bed looks out onto the open desert valley. And when the clouds roll in, rain lashes and lightning illuminates the skies, the landscape looks even more dramatic. Any saddle-sore trailhand will find solace in the spa, and nourishment from the bountiful breakfast buffet. aman.com/resorts/amangiri

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CAPE COD The new bathroom series by Philippe Starck. info@uk.duravit.com www.duravit.co.uk

LONDON HOMES &

PROPERTY Covering THE CITY, Wapping, Shad Thames, Shoreditch & Islington

COLOUR ME HAPPY

The 2016 PANTONE COLOUR OF THE YEAR is REVEALED

Whitby asymmetrical corner sofa in Blush, £2,180, sofa.com

PROPERTY NEWS

Keep tabs on the market, whether you are living or investing in the capital

SALES ANDREW GROOCOCK, partner and department

head at Knight Frank Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the residential sales market As we move into 2016, it is a good time to take stock and see what the coming year could hold for the property market in Docklands. We are coming off the back of yet another strong year of growth in prices in the area, which coupled with the shortage of stock has made for a challenging market for both buyers and sellers. Transaction levels have remained high, but it has required both buyers and sellers to be flexible on pricing and move dates in order for chains to be completed. With interest rates looking to stay at their historically low levels for the foreseeable future, the owner-occupier market looks like it will continue to perform well throughout 2016. Looking at 2016, the biggest hurdle that the property

The biggest hurdle that the property market faces is yet another change in the stamp duty regime market faces is yet another change in the stamp duty regime which was announced in the Autumn Statement by the chancellor. With Docklands being a prime area for buy-to-let investors, what impact is an additional 3 per cent going to have on transaction levels? One thing is for sure, if you are looking to sell an ideal rental property you would be best advised to get it on the market as quickly as possible, enabling investors the opportunity to complete the purchase prior to the changes kicking in on 1 April 2016. While there’s no doubt that over time investors will simply get used to absorbing this additional tax, in the short term we may well see a reduction in investor transactions, meaning the first quarter could be extremely busy and important to anyone looking to buy or sell a second property.

FASHION FOR THE HOME Roberto Cavalli has made a name for himself in couture, but now, for the first time, the Italian fashion designer is bringing a stunning range of handmade furniture to the UK. New luxury brand, Kings of Chelsea, opened its London showroom late last year, and at that time debuted Cavalli’s luxurious furniture offering within the new 1,800 sq ft store. Cavalli himself worked very closely with JC Passion, one of the finest Italian furniture manufacturers, to create a range that’s divided into two distinctive collections, Essential and Iconic. The Essential collection adopts a bold approach with primary colours and distinguishing prints, while the Iconic range is given a classical Cavalli touch by using gold, leather and bronze element, alongside a luxuriant oak wood wenge finish. kofc.co.uk

BATHING BEAUTY

From simple and classic designs, to high-end architectural masterpieces, Alternative Bathrooms has earned a reputation for offering both quality and choice when it comes to bathroom ware and accessories. Its latest release, the Yole bath, makes for a striking centrepiece to any contemporary bathroom. This simple, yet outstanding asymmetrical bathtub, with two straight and two curved sides, is also available as a corner and flat wall bath. Made from an innovative composite material, you can be guaranteed longevity from the Yole bath. £4,450, alternativebathrooms.com

Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 Knightfrank.co.uk/canarywharf

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| property |

The new three per cent increase in stamp duty for buy-to-let properties and second homes, while good for first-time buyers, could actually have quite a negative impact on buy-to-let investors and subsequently, the rental market. This may ultimately lead to a shortage of good quality properties or an increase in rent, which could make it much more difficult for tenants. – Jamie Lester, Haus Properties, hausproperties.co.uk COLOUR OF THE YEAR

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Charles Eames Style Candy Floss DSW chair, £59, cultfurniture.com; Pure wool throw in Bleu Ciel, €99.17 (approx. £72), ksl-living.fr; Painted Acrylic Boat Bath, from £1,554, bcdesigns.co.uk; Beningbrough mirror, £75, chandeliersandmirrors.co.uk

For the first time, Pantone has chosen two shades – pale pink Rose Quartz and Serenity, a cool blue – for its annual Colour of the Year selection. An authority on colour science and colour standards for design industries, the Pantone Color Institute’s selection stems from research into colour influences. “In many parts of the world, we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted colour trends throughout all other areas of design,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. This includes interiors, and these shades are ideal for evoking peace and tranquillity – introduce the shades at home with coloured kitchen items, statement chairs, rugs and upholstery. pantone.com

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LETTINGS CHRISTOPHER PAXTON, head of lettings at Knight

Frank Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the residential lettings market The private rented sector is continuing to grow in size, with around 5.4 million, or 20 per cent of households now being let out to private tenants. There has been a generational shift in the private rented sector. More households are now living in rented accommodation for longer, and while housing affordability is certainly a factor here, rented accommodation is also becoming an established flexible form of tenure, an attribute welcomed especially among younger workers. This was confirmed in last year’s Tenant Survey, with 38 per cent of under-35s saying they didn’t want a mortgage or that renting suited their lifestyle, rising to 49 per cent for those aged under 25. The number of under-45s living in the sector has more than doubled, to nearly 3.1 million over the last decade, and those aged 25-34 now account for nearly 37 per cent of PRS households, up from 32 per cent in 2009, according to the English Housing Survey. In terms of supply, the private rented sector is largely made up of private landlords, many of whom have one or two properties. This direct investment in property was driven by the rise in the availability of buy-to-let mortgage loans in the late 1990s. New regulations on mortgage interest relief for buy-to-let investors from 2017 could lead to a modest slowing in growth in this market. However, this will likely be overshadowed by the rapid expansion of large-scale investment in the sector, with institutional investors such as pension and investment funds increasingly looking to purchase and hold purpose-built rental accommodation over the longer term – bringing the UK in line with markets such as the US and Denmark where residential rented accommodation is a specific asset class. Knight Frank’s Investor Survey, one of the most comprehensive surveys of large-scale investors in the private rented sector, indicates that investment is set to treble over the next five years. Knight Frank estimates current investment to be around £15 billion, rising to £50 billion by the end of 2020. *This is an exert from Knight Frank LLP Tenant Survey 2015/2016, knightfrank.com/research/the-uk-tenantsurvey-201516 Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 Knightfrank.co.uk/canarywharf

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Pan Peninsula Square, Isle Of Dogs E14 Three bedroom apartment A grand three bedroom apartment with spectacular panoramic views across London and expansive lateral living space. 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, 4 terraces, 24 hour concierge, leisure facilities, 2 parking spaces, on site bar, restaurant and cinema. EPC: C. Approximately 225.57 sq m (2,428 sq ft) Leasehold: approximately 990 years remaining

Guide price: £2,500,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/canarywharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6112

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/CNW150215

The City- Jan 2016

14/12/2015 10:52:06

Cit

SOME OF OUR SUCCESSES FOR 2015

Bezier Apartments, City EC1Y Guide price: £735,000

Phoenix Wharf, Limehouse E14 Guide price: £1,150,000

To find out how we can help you sell your property in 2016 please contact us on: KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping wapping@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 @KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Oliver Wharf, Wapping E1W Guide price: £1,400,000

Pierhead Wharf, Wapping E1W Guide price: £1,235,000

Tower Bridge Wharf, Wapping E1W Guide price: £1,750,000

Capital Wharf, Wapping E1W Guide price: £1,545,000

Merganser Court, Wapping E1W Guide price: £1,400,000

Times Square, City E1 Guide price: £650,000

Chimney Court, Wapping E1W Guide price: £715,000

Towerside, Wapping E1W Guide price: £550,000

City Mag Jan16

17/12/2015 10:59:43

EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS IN WANDSWORTH SOLD Spencer Road, Wandsworth SW18 Guide price: £3,600,000

SOLD Hillier Road, Wandsworth SW11 Guide price: £1,595,000

To find out how we can help you or to arrange your free market appraisal please contact us: KnightFrank.co.uk/wandsworth wandsworth@knightfrank.com 020 8682 7777

SOLD Althorp Road, Wandsworth SW17 Guide price: £1,600,000

SOLD Baskerville Road, Wandsworth SW18 Guide price: £3,900,000

SOLD Eglantine Road, Wandsworth SW18 Guide price: £2,200,000

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SOLD Nicosia Road, Wandsworth SW18 Guide price: £2,800,000

SOLD Foxbourne Road, Wandsworth SW17 Guide price: £1,475,000

SOLD Clapham Common West Side, Wandsworth SW4 Guide price: £3,350,000

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

SOLD St. James’s Drive, Wandsworth SW17 Guide price: £2,500,000

SOLD Tunley Road, Wandsworth SW17 Guide price: £1,375,000

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OPENING DOORS IN 2016 We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience. Early indications suggest strong market conditions for 2016, so call us today on 020 3597 7670 to arrange your free market appraisal. Guide price: £800,000

Milton Court, Carrara Wharf, Putney SW6 A delightful riverside flat with river view from all principal rooms. 2 bedrooms (1 en suite), bathroom, kitchen, reception room, balcony. EPC: G. Approximately 68 sq m (739 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 121 years remaining. riverside@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £1,600,000

NEO Bankside, Southbank SE1 A bright and spacious two bedroom flat for sale on the seventh floor in NEO Bankside. 2 bedrooms (1 en suite), shower room, kitchen/reception room, study. EPC: C. Approximately 98 sq m (1,059 sq ft). Leasehold: approximately 991 years remaining. riverside@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3597 7670

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Resident's Journal Jan 16 v3

17/12/2015 09:09:06

WHAT'S YOUR NEXT MOVE? To find out how we can help you or to arrange your no obligation market appraisal please contact us: KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366

Guide price: £1,200 per week

Telfords Yard, Wapping E1W

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Spectacular four bedroom apartment in a charming warehouse conversion in west Wapping. 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, reception/dining room, parking space and porterage. EPC: C. Approximately 241 sq m (2,590 sq ft). Available furnished. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5366

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £550 per week

Pierhead Wharf, Wapping E1W Beautifully presented modern 2 bedroom flat in central Wapping. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, reception/dining room, kitchen, private balcony and parking space. EPC: C. Approximately 71 sq m (757 sq ft). Available furnished. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5366

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17/12/2015 15:12:47

| property |

Insider Knowledge

JLL’s ANNUAL RESIDENTIAL FORECASTS Diana Alam, Head of Residential Development Sales, JLL

1. What external factors will influence the UK housing market in 2016? 2016 should provide a sounder base for British businesses, consumers, home owners, home buyers, renters and landlords following 2015, which was disrupted by the general election. We expect UK house price growth of five per cent in 2016 with transaction volumes rising to 1.28 million. Looking further ahead, despite the EU referendum and the likelihood of further interest rate rises, 2017 should be another year of positive economic expansion and improved household finances and confidence. This backdrop should lead to greater UK housing market activity, reasonably strong house price growth and a continuation of development volume growth in 2017. Overseas economies and unrest pose some risk but fundamentally the UK economy is in a stronger and more stable place than almost anywhere else in the

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world. Higher value London markets, which are being rocked by punitive levels of stamp duty, face an uneasy and vulnerable short-term outlook, but most regional mainstream housing markets are looking in good health. Positive economics and more secure household confidence and finances, alongside insufficient new housing delivery, will place upward pressure on prices and will lead to more transactions. 2. How can home owners, home buyers, renters and landlords best prepare for the year ahead? The 2016 housing market will be a market of stability and continuity as the dust settles from the general election in May and the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement announced on 25 November. Repercussions from both have been felt across the UK housing market, but most markedly in London with the prime market suffering at the hands of the increased rate

of stamp duty affecting homes purchased above £1m, and buy-to-let investors and second home purchasers suffering a three per cent increase in SDLT. In spite of this we are confident that the London market will be the strongest regional UK performer with Greater London expected to demonstrate house price growth of up to 5.5 per cent. In terms of advice for owners, home buyers, renter and landlords we believe it is a good time to speak to a financial advisor if you have a mortgage in place and are looking to find the best lender. Although we know interest rates only have one way to go, it’s worth taking advice to find out if you have the best product. It’s also a good time to speak to agents on their perspective on the market and the best areas and developments to invest in. With new stamp duty regulations you may feel you need to be cautious but do your research and there will be great deals out there.

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agent focus Knight Frank’s Aldgate Arrival Thom Atkins explains why Knight Frank’s new Aldgate branch is on its way to becoming the estate agent’s biggest volume office

erkeley Homes’ Goodman’s Fields was among the most talked about developments of 2015. I recently had the privilege of understanding why when Thom Atkins, from Knight Frank Aldgate, gave me a tour of one of the development’s stunning two bedroom apartments. I now also fully appreciate Knight Frank’s decision to choose this very site for its new Aldgate office. In fact, it didn’t take me long to realise the independent real estate consultancy is sitting on a bit of a gold mine. In the first two and a half months alone, the team achieved an impressive 23 lets. Atkins says the response has been overwhelming: “For a location which is primarily driven by City professionals, the fact that it took so long for a lot of the larger international agencies to zone in, was a bit strange.” For Knight Frank, it was about uniting a few patches and facilitating the east, which according to Atkins, is quickly becoming one of the capital’s most vibrant markets.

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RIGHT Thom Atkins by Sarel Jansen BELOW RIGHT The Goodman’s Fields development

With offices in Wapping, Islington and Canary Wharf – and Mayfair in the west – Knight Frank viewed Aldgate as a pocket with potential, and thus far, it’s shown plenty of promise. “You used to get your 35 year-old guy moving into town from Paris who wanted to be in Mayfair,” says Atkins. “Now he wants to be in Aldgate.” Tom explains that the area has a lot going for it, especially for financiers and legal professionals that are working in the City – they’re conveniently close to work, yet near enough to Shoreditch and Brick Lane if they’re also looking for some nightlife at the weekend. Atkins adds that there’s also growing demand for lifestyle-led developments like Goodman’s Fields: “I’ve had three people offer based on facilities – they come up to see the apartments after they’ve offered.” Further to the lettings success, I’m told those that invested early are already enjoying up to 30 per cent increase in value. It’s important to note at this point

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| property |

“For Knight Frank, it was about uniting a few patches and facilitating the east, which, according to Atkins, is quickly becoming one of the capital’s most vibrant

markets”

that the success of Knight Frank Aldgate isn’t solely resting on this one new build. In fact, the growth across Aldgate and surrounding areas has been rather phenomenal since 2012, and it’s tipped to continue with the arrival of Crossrail. Atkins says: “I can’t see a position whereby in the next five years it [Aldgate] won’t be one of Knight Frank’s biggest volume offices.” He says we only need to do a 360 and look at the sheer volume of property to appreciate that. He’s right, as we admired the views of Canary Wharf from the balcony, I could see a number of developments at varying stages. A final word of advice from Atkins: “If you’ve got the budget, don’t waste your time looking anywhere else.” knightfrank.co.uk/Aldgate

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One New Year’s resolution we can help you keep…

SHOREDITCH

WAPPING

Guide £1.55 million

SHOREDITCH

OIEO £1.85 million

OIEO £1.75 million

TABERNACLE ST EC2A

1,524 sq ft

EPC=C

WAPPING

Guide £860,000

WAPPING RIVERSIDE E1W 1,296 sq ft

AVANTGARDE PLACE E1

1,290 sq ft

WAPPING HIGH ST E1W

983 sq ft

EPC=B

EPC=C

SHOREDITCH

EPC=TBC

OIEO £650,000

WAPPING

COMMERCIAL STREET E1 736 sq ft

STAR PLACE E1W

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EPC=C

Guide £3 million

SHOREDITCH

OIRO £900,000

1,895 sq ft

BOUNDARY STREET E2

902 sq ft

EPC=D

EPC=B

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Call us 7 days a week on 020 7877 4640

HOXTON

£625 pw + fees apply*

WAPPING

£2,700 pw + fees apply*

CANARY WHARF

£475 pw + fees apply*

HOXTON WHARF N1

781 sq ft

ST KATHERINES WAY E1W 4,036 sq ft

BOARDWALK PLACE E14

784 sq ft

EPC=B

EPC=C

SHOREDITCH

£2,450 pw + fees apply*

CANARY WHARF

EPC=D

£850 pw + fees apply*

WAPPING

£950 pw + fees apply*

CALVIN STREET E1

3,027 sq ft

WESTFERRY CIRCUS E14 1,276 sq ft

WAPPING WALL E1W

1,504 sq ft

EPC=C

EPC=B

...Move. WAPPING

£925 pw + fees apply*

EAST SMITHFIELD E1W

1,070 sq ft

EPC=C

If you are considering a move in 2016, contact your local Savills team in Wapping, Canary Wharf or Shoreditch. savills.co.uk

* Fees to include drawing up the tenancy agreements and reference change for one tenant – £276 inc VAT one-off fee. £36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependant on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details visit savills.co.uk/fees

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Commercial Road, E1 £475 per week (charges apply)* Superbly located modern two bedroom apartment. EPC: C

St. Cross Street , EC1 £825 per week (charges apply)* A newly refurbished three double bedroom duplex apartment. EPC: G

Commercial Street, E1 £625 per week (charges apply)* A well presented two bedroom two bathroom apartment in this popular development in the heart of Spitalfields. EPC: B

Bateman’s Row, EC2 £675 per week (charges apply)* Warehouse conversion property in the heart of the Shoreditch Triangle. EPC: C

Commercial Road, E1 £575 per week (charges apply)* Modern and stylish two double bedroom apartment in the heart of Aldgate. EPC: D

Commercial Street, E1 £700 per week (charges apply)* A two bedroom apartment in this popular development in Spitalfields. EPC: B

Hamptons City Office Sales. 020 7717 5435 | Lettings. 020 7717 5437

*Tenant Charges Tenants should note that as well as rent, an administration charge of £216 (Inc. VAT) per property and a referencing charge of £54 (Inc. VAT) per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit www.hamptons.co.uk/rent/tenant-charges

Lamb Street, E1 £1,750,000 Leasehold A rare four bedroom apartment in Spitalfields. EPC: D

Martha’s Building, EC1 £800,000 Leasehold A huge loft apartment close to Old Street Tube. EPC: C

Plumber’s Row, E1 £750,000 Leasehold A large two bedroom apartment in the Colefax Building. EPC: C

Ludgate Square, EC4 £975,000 Leasehold Stunning two bedroom, with views over St Paul’s Cathedral. EPC: C

The Heron, EC1 £3,550,000 Leasehold A 1973 sq.ft. Space on the 27th floor of the Heron. EPC: C

City Road, EC1 £735,000 Leasehold An impressive two bedroom flat with a balcony. EPC: D

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Albion Drive, E8 A beautiful family home located moments from London Fields. Offering three bedrooms and a stunning open plan family area opening onto the garden with alfresco dining area. A beautiful house in one of London’s trendiest locations. EPC: E

£1,475,000 Freehold • • • • • •

Hamptons Islington Office Sales. 020 7717 5453 | Lettings. 020 7717 5335

Reception Room Kitchen dining room, 3 Bedrooms Conservatory Terrace Rear Garden

Northchurch Road, N1 A most beautiful period home offering regency style living with a modern architecturally designed finish. The accommodation on the ground floor boasts a beautiful family entertaining space with bi-fold doors onto the enclosed garden at the rear. A stunning master bedroom suite occupies the first floor and comes with a dressing suite and bespoke en-suite bathroom. The interiors have been beautifully designed and kept to an impressive standard by it’s current owners. It’s a simply must see! EPC: D

£2,250,000 Freehold • • • • • •

Reception room 5 Bedrooms Ensuite shower room Kitchen/dining room Drawing room Rear garden

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Eagle Wharf, SE1 £1,395,000 Leasehold A bright split level three double bedroom apartment in this central Shad Thames development. EPC:F

Compass Court , SE1 £1,500,000 Leasehold Beautifully finished duplex penthouse apartment with three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large eat-in kitchen. EPC: E

Compass Court, SE1 £1,100,000 Leasehold Compass Court is a rare find. It’s high ceilings, combined with southerly aspect flood the living space with light. EPC:D

Futura House, SE1 £999,950 Leasehold A beautiful live work unit in a well presented block within SE1, this flat has been redecorated in 2015 and provides a huge reception. EPC: C

Borough Place, SE1 £1,300,000 Leasehold Set in the heart of a high specification new build unit near to Borough station. EPC:

Empire Square East, SE1 £900,000 Leasehold This apartment provides 903 sq ft of living space and is situated on the third floor. It benefits from two bedrooms and two bathrooms. EPC: C

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Sales. 020 7717 5489 | Lettings. 020 7717 5491

LIVE IN AMAZING KING’S CROSS Granary Square is home to the University of the Arts London and the setting for al fresco dining and a diverse annual programme of events.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PLACE You have restaurants, cafés, parks and fountains; you have shops, squares and the joys of a canal; you have the best national and international rail connections in London and an extraordinary choice of some of the Capital’s most extraordinary homes. Move in now and experience living at King’s Cross.

You have 6 tube lines, 3 mainline stations and a Eurostar. Live just 5 minutes from Oxford Circus and Covent Garden and a mere 8 minutes from Victoria and Piccadilly Circus.

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Please contact us at: enquiries@livingatkingscross.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7205 4246 kingscross.co.uk/homes Marketing suite: The Plimsoll Building, 1 Handyside Street, King’s Cross, London, N1C 4BP

www.kingscross.co.uk

09/12/2015 12:48

REDCHURCH STREET, SHOREDITCH E2 ● ● ● ●

1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Approx. 676 sq ft (62.8 sq m) Fitted kitchen

● ● ● ●

Floor to ceiling windows Located in zone 1 Shoreditch High Street station EPC: D

Guide price £725,000 Leasehold For more information, call Bernard Cully 020 3813 5836 or email bernard.cully@eu.jll.com

16-17 Royal Exchange London EC3V 3LL

jll.co.uk/residential

AVANTGARDE TOWER, SHOREDITCH E1 ● ● ● ●

1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Approx. 513 sq ft (47.7 sq m) Balcony with City views

● ● ● ●

High specification 24 Hour concierge Shoreditch High Street station EPC: B

£545 per week Furnished For more information, call Neil Short 020 3813 5949 or email neil.short@eu.jll.com

Potential tenants are advised that administration fees may be payable when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.

16-17 Royal Exchange London EC3V 3LL

jll.co.uk/residential

Covent Garden

EC3

EC4

Farringdon

N1C

WC1

Marylebone Mayfair EC1

Soho

Kings Cross

Clerkenwell EC2

Fitzrovia W1

WC2

Bloomsbury

Smithfields

The City NW4

City Fringe

Wherever you are looking to move from, CBRE Residential has it covered. Our local experts can help with all your property needs whether you are looking to sell or let. To find out how we can help, speak to our team: West End sales 020 7205 4553 westend.sales@cbre.com

West End lettings 020 7205 4611 westend.lettings@cbre.com

Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Holborn WC2 £1,750 per week

Bedford Row, Holborn/Bloomsbury border WC1 £1,500 per week

Gray’s Inn Road, Bloomsbury WC1 £1,375,000

LE T

SO LD

Warwick Court, Holborn WC1 £1,895,000

LE T

SO LD

Wine Office Court, The City WC4 £2,000,000

LE T

SO LD

www.cbreresidential.com/uk

Fetter Lane, The City EC4 £750 per week

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Whitechapel Gallery Aldgate East COMMERCIAL

Aldgate

61 AL

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MANSE

Lloyds Building

LIE

Tower Gateway

Tower Hill

020 7680 1888

ROAD

SALES

LETTINGS

SHOREDITCH, E1 £2,500,000 Three beds, penthouse, 1,582 sq ft/147m2 epc B

SPITALFIELDS, E1 Two beds, terrace, furnished

NEW HOMES

COMMERCIAL

HACKNEY WICK, E3 FROM £490,000 Selection of 2 beds near the Olympic Park epc B

RETAIL & OFFICE UNITS TO LET / FOR SALE Greenwich Creekside, SE8. Provisional epcs B-C

£550 pw epc D

CityLiving

@ Aldgate

with hurford-salvi-carr.co.uk

Ea2 would like to wish you a Happy New Year We are looking forward to a positive 2016 and in assisting you in all your property requirements

Wellington Terrace, Wapping E1W

ÂŁ695,000

2 double bedroom, 2 storey house set within this gated CCTV development. The property has been fully modernised to include double glazing, replacement ceilings, wood floors, , alarm, central heating system operated via remote control, smart phone or internet. Lounge. Fully fitted kitchen. Double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. Garden. Secure Underground parking space. Potential to extend into the loft subject to planning permission. Close to Wapping station and local amenities.

Please do not hesitate in contacting us on enquiries@ea2group.com 020 7702 3456 www.ea2group.com

Tudor House,Tower Bridge, SE1

6th floor luxury 2 Double Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Open Plan Reception Room, large balcony. Master bedroom with en-suite and walk in wardrobe. Modern Integrated Kitchen, Balcony, 24 Hour Porter by Harrods Estates, Residents Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Lifts to all floors. Close to Local Shopping Facilities, Walking Distance to London Bridge.

ÂŁ1,595,000

Ionion Building, Limehouse E14

St Katharine’s Dock, West Wapping E1W

Overground and£625,000 close to Waitrose. Rental Price:

Rental Price: £699,995

Casson Apartments, Docklands E14

Hermitage Court, West Wapping E1W

ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this 1980’s built 3 bedroom 2nd and 3rd floor duplex ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this modern built 1st floor 2 double bedroom apartment apartment.The apartment benefits from kitchen diner, reception leading to patio garden. within this secure popular development on Narrow Street, Limehouse.The apartment Roding Wapping E1W £1,300 per week Bathroom with separate WC. Located close to Tower Hill Stations and St Katharine’ s Dock. benefits from Mews, an open plan lounge/fitted kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, 3 piece bathroom ea2 balcony are pleased to bewood ablefloor. to show you this 6offers bedroom 4 bathroom suite, and laminate The development 24 concierge/security andhouse for rental with a garden. This property is a located close to property Limehouse Marina andviews Limehouse very unique and has overstations. the canal. Would suit 6 professional people. Close to Tower Hill and Wapping

ea2 are pleased to offer to rent this modern built 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom 1st floor Ea2 are pleased to bring to market this spacious 2nd floor modern built 2 bedroom, apartment within this popular West Wapping development.The apartment benefits from 2 bathroom apartment within this secure development. The apartment benefits fully fitted kitchen, lounge, private terrace, laminate wood floors and£500 secure underground from having 2 balconies, floor to ceiling windows, open plan lounge and kitchen with Cascades Tower, Docklands E14 per week parking. Residents communal courtyard and porterage. Close to Tower Hill stations and St integrated appliances and granite work surfaces. Laminate wood floors and a secure 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom 11th floor apartment within this secure modern development. Comprising a reception Katharine’s Dock. underground parking space. Close to Canary Wharf District.

room with water/ City views, fitted kitchen, master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe & en suite bathroom, additional Rental Price: £470 Swimming Per Week Rental Price: £460 Per Week shower room. Balcony. pool, Gymnasium & Tennis court. Concierge.

122 Newgate Street London EC1A 7AA

T: 020 7600 0026 W: www.scottcity.co.uk e: property@scottcity.co.uk

Hosier Lane, West Smithfield EC1 For Sale ÂŁ485,000 Hosier Lane is situated in the heart of West Smithfield between St Pauls and Chancery Lane. This Luxury development offers 24 hour porterage with impressive main entrance. Situated on the ground floor of Hosier Lane is this LARGE STYLE STUDIO apartment measuring approx. 377 sq. feet (35 sq. m). These apartments offer high quality features and fine detailing which include sealed wood floor with underfloor heating, fully fitted kitchens with all appliances included and fully tiled wet room.

Temple House, Temple EC4 For Sale ÂŁ1,175,000 Situated away from all the hustle & bustle of Fleet Street in a quiet road called Temple Avenue is TEMPLE HOUSE. This TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT is located on the ground floor of the building and the main bedroom has a fully fitted en suite shower room. Solid wood flooring is laid throughout the flat with exception to the carpeted bedrooms and white tiled bathrooms and kitchen. The kitchen is fully fitted with washer / dryer, fridge freezer, oven and microwave, meanwhile the large living area and bedrooms have 15ft high ceilings. Day concierge.

West Smithfield, EC1 £350 Per Week

St Pauls, EC4 £595 Per Week

AVAILABLE FEBRUARY 2016- Finished to the highest specification and extending to some 395 sq. ft, this Studio apartment is located on the fifth floor with a balcony. The property is furnished to a high standard, and benefit from underfloor heating, sealed oak wood flooring and 24 hour concierge

Very close to St Paul’s Cathedral - is this good size THIRD FLOOR, TWO BEDROOM APARTMENT. This property is enhanced by the HIGH CEILINGS and FULLY FITTED KITCHEN comprising - washer / dryer, dishwasher, fridge / freezer and electric oven with four hobs. The property is FULLY FURNISHED throughout and is AVAILABLE NOW

Barbican, EC2 £455 Per Week

Barbican, EC2 £350 Per Week

This large One-Bedroom duplex apartment with a south facing living room, benefits from a great deal of natural light where it matters most and Both kitchen and bathroom have been refurbished in the last 3 years. Viewings highly recommended for this fantastic onebedroom apartment in Bunyan Court. Available December 2015

AVAILABLE NOW - This ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT with SOUTH FACING BALCONY and views over the podium. The flat offers entrance hall, open plan ORIGINAL BARBICAN KITCHEN and reception room, original bathroom, bedroom and BALCONY and is offered FURNISHED.

The Goodman Penthouse Launch at Goodman’s Fields Thursday 4th February, 6pm – 9pm

Enjoy the pinnacle of London living at The Goodman Penthouse. Just over 3,800 square feet set over the top three floors of Satin House with exquisite interiors and breathtaking views towards the City and Canary Wharf.

The Goodman Penthouse priced at £5,000,000 - ready to move in by March 2016. Call 020 3773 5736 or email goodmans@berkeleygroup.co.uk Sales & Marketing Suite open 7 days a week 10am – 6pm (Open until 8pm on Wednesdays and 4pm on Sundays) 39 Leman Street, London, E1 8EY. Prices and details correct at time of going to press and subject to availability. Computer generated image depicts Goodman’s Fields and is indicative only.

www.goodmansfields.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Beckenham 020 8663 4433 Bromley 020 8315 5544

Shirley CR0

Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Orpington 01689 661 400 West Wickham 020 8432 7373

£1,895,000 F/H

Five bedroom, four bathroom detached house constructed 20 years ago and offering 4,300 sqft of beautifully proportioned and well presented living accommodation.

Contact West Wickham 020 8432 7373

Bromley BR1

£950,000 F/H

Offered chain free and comprising over 2,500 sqft of accommodation is this charming five bedroom detached family home. • Five Bedrooms • Two Reception Rooms

Contact Bromley 020 8315 5544

• Stunning Secluded Garden • Energy Efficiency Rating E

• • • •

Five Bedrooms Three Reception Rooms Secluded Garden & Triple Garage Energy Efficiency Rating D

Shoreham TN14

£1,650,000 F/H

Wonderful family home set amidst delightful gardens with an adjoining meadow and almost 3 acres of secluded level gardens and park like grounds. • Six Bedrooms • Detached Residence

• Three Reception Rooms • Energy Efficiency Rating E

Contact Orpington 01689 661 400 A member of

The Acorn Group, incorporating:

langfordrussell.co.uk

TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWERS K N OW HE AV EN W HEN THE Y SEE IT.

It’s always good to listen to people who’ve actually been to a destination. So we’re proud of what you’ll read on Trip Advisor about Saint Peter’s Bay, Barbados. This select collection of properties is beautifully designed, equipped – and just a few shimmering steps from the fabulous beach and ocean. Around you, the best of everything: pampering, watersports, fitness, gastronomy and all the fun a family can handle. Join us. Come for a holiday and, who knows, even acquire your own piece of heaven.

UNNA Luxury Resorts & Residences

Visit stpetersbaybarbados.com and then call 0800 097 0847

THE WORLD AGREES, IT’S A WORLD APART.

London’s Finest Properties

LOVE LONDON LOVE LIFE LETTINGS | MANAGEMENT | SALES | SERVICED APARTMENTS City_DPS_Generic.indd 1

13/05/2015 13:47

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UK’S LEADING PRIVATELY OWNED

REAL ESTATE AGENCY SPECIALISING IN

NEW LUXURY DEVELOPMENTS

WITH 11 OFFICES IN LONDON

3 INTERNATIONAL OFFICES 120 DEDICATED STAFF WHO SPEAK OVER 32 LANGUAGES 020 8896 9990 | liferesidential.co.uk 13:47

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INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO New Year, New Home

*Figures according to Rightmove

With house prices set to continue to climb over the next year (property prices are predicted to be, on average, another £17,000 higher by the end of 2016*) and the impending addition of extra stamp duty on buy-to-let properties, it may be worth starting your research early with these three desirable new developments

No.1 Palace Street Established residential developer Northacre’s latest development in the exclusive SW1 postcode gives residents the rare opportunity of neighbouring royalty. A total of 72 apartments will sit in the 10,000 square feet site in St James’s Park by Buckingham Palace and are set to be complete by early 2018. The buildings, surrounding a landscaped interior courtyard, offer a rich architectural heritage with historic styles – including 1880s Renaissance – meeting contemporary

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2016

additions under the guidance of architects Squire & Partners. All of the apartments offer a unique layout and most benefit from extraordinarily grand high ceilings, a dual aspect and original or restored period features. Amenities will include a full concierge service, extensive leisure facilities and underground parking. from £2.1m No.1 Palace Street, SW1 020 7349 8000 numberonepalacestreet.com

s luxurylo nd o n.c o.uk s

| property |

Royal Arsenal Riverside The first homes in the latest phase – Pavilion Square – have launched at Berkeley Homes’ new Royal Arsenal Riverside development, located on the banks of The Thames in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. This phase offers 169 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, 26 Manhattan (studio) suites and 24 penthouses which vary in size up to 1,213 square feet. Most have large and light-filled open-plan living areas and residents benefit from exclusive access to luxury facilities within

the complex, including a 20m swimming pool and spa facilities, private gym, cinema room and a 24-hour concierge service. Positioned to take advantage of Crossrail, the on-site station opening in 2018 will provide excellent transport links to central London. from £435,000 for a one bedroom apartment Royal Arsenal Riverside, SE18 020 8331 7130 royalarsenalriverside.co.uk

Greenwich Millennium Village Situated on the Greenwich Peninsula, close to the UNESCO world heritage sites of maritime Greenwich, Greenwich Millennium Village is a development by Countryside and Taylor Wimpey in association with the Mayor of London. A range of one-, two- and threebedroom apartments is available and architects Jestico & Whiles were responsible for the buildings, some of which have statement colourful façades. Outdoor space has been made a priority for residents and is offered via personal terraces, winter gardens and balconies along with landscaped public spaces and a 50-acre ecology garden. Meanwhile, the high specification interiors feature oak flooring, stone worktops and top-rated integrated appliances. North Greenwich station and Thames Clippers ferry services are easily accessible, while the development’s proximity to London City Airport is also notable for frequent flyers. from £365,000 for a one-bedroom apartment Greenwich Millennium Village, SE10 020 8305 2712 gmv.gb.com

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Discover Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youngest landmark Now Launched Berkeley Homes and Foster + Partners are proud to present South Quay Plaza, two iconic buildings just moments from Canary Wharf. At 68 storeys and with world class facilities, South Quay Plaza will redefine London living.

Suites, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments available. For further information, please call 020 3811 1532 or email southquayplaza@berkeleygroup.co.uk Details are correct at time of going to press and subject to apartment type and availability. Computer generated image depicts South Quay Plaza. ÂŠ DBOX for Berkeley Homes.

www.southquayplaza.london Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

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