N O T J U S T A N E W T V. A W H O L E N E W C AT E G O R Y OF TELEVISION. OLED’s next generation pixel construction allows for unique screen architecture which is so light and thin it can be bonded to a transparent piece of glass. This stunning television produces an incredible picture with infinite contrast that is complimented by an innovative sound bar stand that produces superb audio. A masterful television from LG’s award winning OLED TV range. lg.com/uk/discoveroled
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issue no.
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contents on the cover 22
Sir Ian McKellen What the world’s favourite wizard did next
65
Motoring Special Italy in a Miura, Miami in a Huracán, Rockingham in a Caterham
74
Nico Rosberg The Formula One star on living life in the fast lane
80
Ron Dennis Head-to-head with the long-serving McLaren supremo
65 Raging Bull
An awe-inspiring dose of street theatre from the new Lamborghini V10 convertible
p70
REGULARS
86
93 59 8
THE CITY MAGAZINE | July 2016
38
14 16
CITY LIFE: The Edit The commodities and consumables raising our interest rates this month The Social Steaks, takeaways and Alain Ducasse
34 36
COLLECTION: Occupy London How Watches of Switzerland took over the capital The Great Gatsby Lalique steps back to the 1920’s for its SS16 collection
40 53
STYLE: Strip the shoulder Give straps the cold shoulder with the season’s hottest trend Youth in revolt London Collections Men was back, and as bold as ever
84 88 96
OUT OF OFFICE: Work out your work-out Tips and tricks for the best quick workouts for time poor City types Arts & Interiors: Glenn Brown An introduction to another artist that should appear on your agenda Travel: Zimbabwe The lush landscapes and elegant animals are sure to make you zealous for Zimbabwe
142
HOMES AND PROPERTY: Bankside living Enjoy the vibrant South Bank with an apartment in the 41-storey South Bank Tower
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THE NEW V3. OUR LIGHTEST LUGGAGE. EVER.
211 Regent Street • Westfield Shepherds Bush • London City Airport Case • Harrods • Selfridges TUMI.COM
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f r o m t h e E D I TOR
A
c omm on gard en snai l m o v e s at approximat ely 0.002 mph , or on e mi l lim etre p er se c ond . C ontin ent al dri ft cau se s t e ctoni c pl at e s to pu sh and pul l at around 0.00000002 mph , or f our c ent im etre s ea ch year. Th e fa st e st that s om ethin g can trav el ,
c omp arat iv ely, i s th e sp e ed of li g ht, or 671,000,000 mph . W h en Usain B o lt bro ke th e 1 0 0 m etre w orl d re c ord in 2009, h e trav ersed th e r unnin g tra ck at an av era ge v elo c ity of 40 fe et p er se c ond . In thi s, our motoring i ssu e, speed becam e a recurring th em e. W h en L amborghini unveiled th e Miura at th e Brussel s Motor S how in 1966 ( p.65), it changed th e sup ercar scen e forever. Fitt ed with a 3.9-litre, V12 engin e, th e space-age automobile blew Ferrari’s 275 and Jaguar’s E-Type out of th e wat er. It was capable of getting from zero to 60 mph in a th en unh eard-of 5.7 second s. Th e Miura’s youngest descendant, th e L amborghini Huracán Spyder ( p.70) will reach th e sam e speed in just over three second s. Ni c o R o sb erg ( p . 7 4 ) ha s b e en th e fa st e st man in For mul a O n e thi s sea s on . Hav in g w on f iv e of th e f irst ei g ht ra c e s, h e sit s 24 p o int s cl ear atop th e l ea d er b o ard (at th e tim e of w ritin g ). Th e Ger man p a c emaker w i l l b e h opin g to stret ch that adv ant a ge at thi s m onth’s Briti sh Grand P ri x ( p . 7 8 ) , w h ere h e and fel low c omp etitors w i l l t ake th e C opse C or n er at clo se to 1 6 5 mph . L a st m onth , I a cquired my ow n t a st e f or m otor ra cin g ( p.82). It mi g ht s oun d cli ch é , but linin g up at R o ckin g ham Sp e edw ay in th e inau gural ra c e of th e 2 0 1 6 T h e C i ty Ma ga zi n e Cat erham Acad emy i s s om ethin g I shal l n e v er f orget . If y ou’v e e v er c on si d ered amat eur m otor ra cin g y oursel f, a w ord of w ar nin g : it mi g ht b e th e m o st ad di ctiv e thin g y ou e v er do. G o d sp e ed .
Richard brown, editor
“ If ev er y thi n g s e em s un d er c ontrol , y ou’re n ot g oi n g f a st en ou gh .” Mario Gabriele Andretti, one of only two drivers to win races in Formula One, IndyCar, NASCAR and the World Sportscar Championship
Other titles within the RWMG portfolio
On the cover The Lamborghini Huracán Spyder (p.70), image courtesy of Lamborghini. The Lamborghini Huracán Spyder is available through H. R. Owen, £199,000+VAT, hrowen.co.uk/Lamborghini
A website. A mindset. A l ifest yle.
w w w.luxurylo ndon. c o .u k
issue no.
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Contributors
E d i to r-in- C hief Lesley Ellwood
Edit o r Richard Brown
DE P UTY Edit o r tiffany eastland
E d i to rial a ssistant david taylor
S e n io r Designer LISA WADE
B RAND CONSISTENCY Laddawan Juhong
G e n e ral Manager
James Lawrence
Jennifer Mason
Nick Savage
A s e l f - c o n f e ss e d w i n e
Je n n i f e r, a n av i d c a r f a n
E d i t o r of sp e c i a l i st c o n c i e rg e
o b s e s s iv e , Ja m e s i s o u r g o - t o
a n d a m a t e u r ra c i n g d r iv e r,
s e r v i c e In n e r p l a c e , Ni c k h a s
g ra p e c o n n o i ss e u r. Wi t h m o re
writes about motoring for
the low-down when it comes
a n d m o re c e l e b r i t i e s e n t e r i n g
l u xu r y l o n d o n . c o . u k , a n d i s
t o L o n d o n’s m o st l u xu r i o u s
t h e w o rl d o f w i n e , f r o m D re w
c u r re n t ly w o rk i n g t h r o u g h
h a u n t s . Tu r n t o p a g e 9 6 f o r
B a r r y m o re t o Jay Z , Ja m e s
d r iv i n g h e r ‘ b u c k e t l i st ’ of
a n a dv e n tu re f u r t h e r a f i e l d ,
c h a r t s t h e r i s e of A - l i st w i n e
d re a m c a r s . O n p a g e 7 8 ,
a s Ni c k v i si t s t h e w o n d e r f u l
b ra n d s ( p . 9 3 )
Je n n i f e r t a k e s u s a r o u n d
w i l d e r n e ss of Z i m b a bw e
S i lv e r st o n e a h e a d of t h e
75M7900, £2,499, Hisense, hisense.co.uk
P r o ducti o n Hugo Wheatley Alice Ford Jamie Steele Danny Lesar
P rop ert y D irect o r Samantha Ratcliffe
E x e c u tive D irecto r Sophie Roberts
M a n a ging Direct o r Eren Ellwood
Br i t i s h G ra n d P r i x
Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, £19.99, Botham Merrill Willis, henningswine.co.uk
Fiona Fenwick
Ecoseam cotton-canvas field jacket, £350, Private White V.C., mrporter.com
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DAW N A striking, seductive encounter A touch is all it takes to transform Dawn’s seductive shape, as the sleek hood folds away in silence. A true four-seater, crafted in anticipation of unexpected last-minute escapes. Enjoy the luxury of choice with a bespoke funding solution from Rolls-Royce Financial Services.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London 15 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6EG +44 (0) 20 3699 6608 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-london.co.uk Official fuel economy figures for the Rolls-Royce Dawn: Urban 13.2mpg (21.4l/100km). Extra Urban 28.5mpg (9.9l/100km). Combined 20.0mpg (14.1l/100km). CO2 emissions 330g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. Š Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited 2016. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.
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City Life
JULY 2016
Lounge living Get schooled in the art of fine wine, courtesy of andaz hotel liverpool street Five-star boutique hotel Andaz London has expanded its bar and restaurant with the launch of its 1901 Wine Lounge, offering over 160 different wines to get stuck into. This isn’t just for the wine connoisseur; a selection of 18 of the best bins are available by the glass, and wine from unknown regions, such as Spain’s Ribeira Sacra and Italy’s Alto Adige, make a drink in the 1901 more than just your usual tipple. The wine is accompanied by small plates and sharing platters, and an understandably comprehensive choice of cheeses. The team behind the Lounge are aficionados to a person, believing that wine should be fun for everyone, not just a few ruddy-cheeked experts. Andaz London, 40 Liverpool Street, EC2, andazliverpoolstreet.com
the watch
HERITAGE BLACK BAY, TUDUR
t i d e e th
In 2015, TUDOR announced that it had manufactured its first in-house movement. This year, the Rolexsister brand has installed a new variant of the self-winding mechanical calibre behind the vintage dial of its popular Heritage Black Bay. The retro styling of the model seen here benefits from a matt burgundy bezel and burgundy fabric strap. £2,510, Tudor tudorwatch.com
the wish list
Latch polarised sunglasses, £160, Oakley, uk.oakley.com
Wooden beach bat and ball set, £190, Frescobol Carioca, frescobolcarioca.com
Brown woven leather belt, £100, Anderson’s, mrporter.com
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
5 6
Williams cotton-jersey t-shirt, £35, Club Monaco, clubmonaco.com
Polka-dot wool pocket square, £120, Brunello Cucinelli, mrporter.com
the HOTEL RITZ paris is reborn After years of renovation, the original Ritz in Paris has reopened to reveal more opulent interiors than ever. The eponymous hotel was launched by the legendary Cesar Ritz, and became the site from which Auguste Escoffier would rise to gastronomic glory. The Ritz was closed for almost four years while architect Thierry Despont’s plans were turned into reality. Out of an increased 71 suites, the 15 ‘Prestige’ variants are named after some of the hotel’s most loyal patrons, including Coco Chanel, Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Courchevel restaurateur, Nicolas Sale, is the new executive chef, arriving on the back of Michelin Star success. ritzparis.com
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21" Leather-trimmed trolley case, £1,010, Globetrotter, globe-trotter.com
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THE CITY MAGAZINE | July 2016
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Green slim-fit cotton blazer, £575, Boglioli, mrporter.com
8
‘Replica’ sneakers in calfskin and suede, £270, Maison Margiela, maisonmargiela.com
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| NEWS |
the hair care Created in 1965, Baxter of California was one of the original men’s grooming brands. Today, its combs are handcrafted in Switzerland, while its Protein Shampoo removes a build-up of natural toxins like DHT, a type of testosterone that’s proven to cause hair loss.
Hard Water Pomade, £20, endclothing.com
Large Comb, £18, endclothing.com Protein Shampoo, £16, endclothing.com
the road trip
BRYCE CANYON, UTAH
the artwork Harold lloyd prints A silent movie legend, Harold Lloyd was as adept behind the lens as he was in front of it. After an accident in 1919, where what was meant to be a prop bomb actually exploded, resulting in facial scarring and the loss of a finger and thumb, Lloyd founded the Hollywood Stereoscopic Society, capturing images of the stars of the day and the landscapes around him. By the time of his death, Lloyd had amassed more than 300,000 slides, a selection of which are available as prints. from £119, soniceditions.com
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If a few days in Las Vegas ever leaves you questioning the world, a day trip to Bryce Canyon may remind you of how beautiful the planet can be. A four hour drive from Sin City, the canyon comprises a collection of giant amphitheatres in which sit Earth’s largest collection of ‘hoodoos’ – spires of sedimentary rock left behind by thousands of years of erosion. The avenues of orange-red pinnacles, some 200 foot high, are truly spectacular. Explore the canyon by car – a sightseeing drive provides access to 13 viewpoints over the amphitheatres – or by foot – day hikes range from one-mile loops to 11-mile round-trips. Visit early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler and the sandstone spires go through a dramatic transformation of colour. brycecanyon.com
low res
the restaurant
Hutong’s cocktails in the sky To celebrate the start of summer and his arrival as manager of Hutong’s Shanghai Bar in The Shard, Francesco Turrini has curated an all-new cocktail menu, inspired by the flavours of the award-winning restaurant. A highlight is the ‘Old Peking Fashioned’, with Peking duck-infused cognac, roasted sesame syrup, angostura bitters and sesame popping candy pancakes filled with chocolate. hutong.co.uk
THE CITY MAGAZINE | July 2016
15
the food The latest Obicà to join the family, St Paul’s, once again proves that Italian food is hard to topple. Its speciality is mozzarella, produced in so many iterations that it seems criminal not to try them all. Good luck though: the staff will just stop short of force-feeding you the stuff. There’s also huge authentic pizzas, delicious pastas and tempting cocktails. 5-7, 4 Limeburner Lane, EC4, obica.com
l a i c o s The
ife] [City L
the CRAZES ed WITH h is r d CULINARY nou n e a r s u e h epic launc G the atest L KEEPIN ’s e re mil squa
the round-up London has gone poshtakeaway crazy, making the post-night-out chicken shop run a thing of the past
The Pizza Naples is a little far away to order the real deal, but the Pizza Pilgrims van is the next best thing. So successful has the mini Italian van been, that fullblown P.P. pizzerias have popped up across the capital, offering authentic slices of Italy. 8 Browns Building, EC3, pizzapilgrims.co.uk
The Kebab In Germany, the doner kebab is an art form. Unsurprisingly then, German Doner Kebab knows how to make a damn good one. Plus, with less salt, fat and other nasties, you won’t feel as bad indulging at lunch – or after one too many at your local. 11B Islington High Street, N1, donerkebab.ae
The Hot dog
the toast Ahead of the Rio Olympics, Digby Fine English sparkling wine has collaborated with the world-renowned Leander Rowing Club to create the Leander Pink, the official sparkling wine of the institution behind Britain’s most successful Olympic sport. A portion of sales also benefits the Leander Rowing Academy, supporting the next generation of potential Olympians. Leander Pink, £30, Digby Fine English, marksandspencer.com t h e t re at It’s not only HM The Queen who has turned 90 this year. To celebrate its own milestone, chocolatier Godiva has released a limited-edition Gold Anniversary Collection box, featuring a chocolate originally created in almost every decade of its existence. £15/28 pieces, godiva chocolat es.co.uk
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The Galvin Brothers aren’t particularly known for their fast food, but Galvin HOP, a newer, high-end gastropub venture, delivers when it comes to hot dogs. Cooked in a space-age contraption, the Royale Deluxe dog is ready in minutes, and blasts your usual tube-of-meat-ina-bun out of the water. 35 Spital Square, E1, galvinrestaurants.com
The Burger MEATliquor’s latest iteration, MEATmission, serves up the usual hearty burgers alongside newer concoctions such as the Roast Beef Sundae. You can book tables, or walk in, but it also delivers, so there’s no excuse not to get your carnivorous hit 15 Hoxton Market, N1, meatmission.com
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| NEWS |
the REVIEW
raISING THE STEAKS How Smith & Wollensky muscled its way onto the London steak scene Words: Richard Brown
A
s every charmer worth his salt knows, when it comes to wooing – clients into the boardroom, conquests into the bedroom – nothing beats a good slab of meat. Sushi may have had its day a decade ago, but to properly seduce, nothing beats steak. (Unless you’re courting a veggie, in which case it’s probably a shrewder move to stick to the seaweed and rice). Goodman, Gaucho, M, Hawksmoor and CUT have all become fail-safes in the steak schmoozing scene – Goodman earning a reputation ahead of the rest. Last year, Smith & Wollensky swaggered into the ring, coming out swinging with the punchy marketing promise that it would serve the best steaks in the whole of London Town. The all-American import had form on its side. The original Smith & Wollensky has survived NYC’s notorious take-noprisoners restaurant scene for almost 40 years – its appeal among the city’s powerplayers earning it appearances in The Devil Wears Prada and City Boy favourite American Psycho. The London outpost is the company’s first overseas venture (currently, there are nine in the States). A reputed £10 million
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refurbishment aimed to turn two bottomfloor corners of The Adelphi building, just off The Strand, into a sophisticated, midtown-Manhattan, mid-century steakhouse. It worked, quite brilliantly. Located slap bang between the traders of the Square Mile and Mayfair’s hedge fund set, Smith & Wollensky can capitalise on a corporate crowd with deep pockets –
The steaks are some of the capital’s priciest – but are they some of the best?
which is presumably why its cheapest cut, a Filet Mignon, costs £39. (A 680g Rib-Eye soars to £59). The steaks are some of the capital’s priciest – but are they some of the best? Well, yes. The City Magazine is yet to visit Goodman, but of all the other meaty mandens we’ve patronised, S&W stands out. The enormous Rib-Eye was implausibly good; the Filet Mignon was even better (though it rises to £45 when crusted with gorgonzola). There’s a whole lot more to the menu – including an applaudable Mac ‘n’ Cheese with truffle, and the biggest chocolate cake this side of the Atlantic (it’s £18 a slice and easily feeds four) – but it’s beef on which Smith & Wollensky’s has staked its claim – and it’s the beef for which you must go. Visiting without the company credit card? Smith & Wollensky’s pre-theatre menu (which includes a 340g Rib-Eye steak) offers two courses for £25, or three courses for £29. 1-11 John Adam Street, WC2, 020 7321 6007 smithandwollensky.co.uk
THE CITY MAGAZINE | July 2016
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| news |
l a i c o s city
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the intervIEW
words: Josh Sims
alain ducasse
“T
he problem now is that French cuisine is always regarded as being haute cuisine – too complicated, sophisticated, expensive and a bit arrogant. It’s important again for France to say we’re here, but also to get the message across that actually our cuisine is diverse and accessible. It’s not all about the big names – little bistros offer amazing food. Yet Paris has yet to find that dynamism of new ideas that you find in London.” When Alain Ducasse says such things, the fine dining world listens. Ducasse has been described by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences as the ‘Finest Chef in the World’. He has restaurants in Paris, New York, Monaco, Washington, Osaka and London. He has – count ’em – 21 Michelin stars, and has devised menus for Concorde and the International Space Station. Now he’s the frontman for Goût
change of perception to happen overnight, so rooted is French cuisine in ceremony. French cooking is up against what Ducasse calls “instant cuisine”, street food offering a different, if comparable experience, to the best restaurants in the world. A willingness to get off the beaten track has led him to some of the best meals he’s ever eaten – without a Michelin star in sight. “Michelin is something of a mystery,” Ducasse says – easy to say perhaps when Michelin crowns everything you touch – but a telling comment from the frontman of a cuisine looking to realign its public image. “A lot of emphasis is placed on it. But does it matter in, say, Brazil, or the UK? The goal of any chef should be to
“Michelin is something of a mystery,” says Ducasse – easy to say when Michelin crowns everything you touch de France, a French government initiative aimed at changing the perception of the French cuisine he has done much to create. The annual event, launched last year and recently enjoying a second, much larger-scale outing, brings together 1800 chefs to cook French dishes with less fat, sugar and salt, and with greater environmental awareness. Certainly the chef doesn’t expect a
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fill his restaurant, not to spend his time thinking about awards. “That said, I think Michelin is making good choices lately – more unconventional choices, with the likes of Tom Kerridge. The fact is that it’s Michelin that makes a certain type of person go to a restaurant. But all that amazing street food coming through – that’s all a long way from Michelin. Michelin isn’t that
exploratory yet.” Unlike Ducasse himself. Among his more recent projects have been revamped meat-free menus at two of his Parisian restaurants. “The question for me was whether it was possible – can you have fine dining without meat? And especially as a French chef, and a French chef like me,” Ducasse laughs. “But the fact is that we need to have a more sustainable, more humanistic vision of cuisine. We have to change things and find protein in sources other than animals.” Later this year he will open the first full-on restaurant situated within the Palace of Versailles, offering dishes based on historic menus unearthed among court documents dating to the early 1700s, and even using some of the original china from the court of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. “To be able to open a restaurant there is, of course, a real honour,” says the man to whom, perhaps inevitably, the honour would fall. “We want to create the feel of being invited to the King’s table, so we’ve spent a lot of time with archivists to devise a contemporary version of that historic approach. Very few people have had access to the documents – the menus, the protocols. From what we can gather, they liked multiple dishes, though it was really more about spectacle than anything else. It’s strange, but actually not a lot was eaten. In fact, it was rather like a tasting menu.” Plus ça change, plus c’est a même chose.
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| lifestyle |
BON VIVEUR
Our man-about-town, Innerplace’s Nick Savage, gives you the insider lowdown on LONDON’S most hedonistic haunts
Black Roe
Kojawan
L
Poke: What is it and where to get it?
et’s face it; London is one of the most Knight was also struck by how much trend-obsessed, gastronomically London and Hawaii have in common, open-minded cities in the world. remarking that “London is about It isn’t very often that a culinary immigrants, as is Hawaii, and the food in Innerplace phenomenon hits the capital and London would be nowhere near the level is London’s personal completely blindsides us. So it was it is now without immigrants bringing lifestyle concierge. Membership quite by surprise when the current new flavour to the table”. POND serves provides complimentary access to the finest nightclubs, the best dish du jour arrived all the way from an elegant array of poke alongside restaurants and top private members’ the idyllic archipelago of Hawaii. punchy cocktails (as well as the other clubs. Innerplace also offers priority Poke (pronounced poh-kay) was Hawaiian culinary obsession: Spam) bookings, VIP invitations and originally made by native Hawaiians and became very popular amongst insider updates on the latest openings. using ingredients such as seaweed, Dalstonites and the foodie cognoscenti. innerplace.co.uk kukui nuts, algae and Hawaiian salt. But as with many new concepts coming As it became modernised, it quickly out of east London, it was regarded with a borrowed inspiration from various Pacific soupçon of scepticism by the restaurateurs Rim cuisines – specifically Japanese, of Mayfair. Not all trends have legs. Peruvian, Mexican and American food. Fast forward two years and everybody Once taken to the beach in a plastic seems to be joining Granger and Knight on container in lieu of a sandwich, it’s been the poke boat. Black Roe, for instance, is refined as an alternative to sashimi or the newest eatery opened by Kurt Zdesar ceviche at various high-end restaurants (Chotto Matte) and made waves when it across the States, and now Europe. opened in Mayfair, with a few people even When it first arrived in London it was incorrectly touting it as London’s first met more with curiosity than fanfare. poke restaurant. Whilst that might not be Bill Granger was inspired to bring the strictly true, it has offered a first, very posh dish back after launching a restaurant take on Pacific Rim cuisine that seems to in Hawaii, noting that “there are myriad be resonating in W1. varieties of poke in Hawaii that originated Gabriel Cohen-Elia (North Audley from the Japanese farm workers and Cantine, Chez Chow) opened Ahi Poke fisherman that settled in Hawaii in Fitzrovia with Jeremy Coste and David generations ago, bringing rice dishes with Bellaiche. He believes that there’s been raw fish”. Granger & Co featured a tuna a surge in interest because of its healthy and avocado poke in March 2014, giving qualities, mentioning that “Londoners it a healthy if unconventional twist with are increasingly looking to eat fresh, eat brown rice and samphire. healthy and discover new flavours, and Just a few months later, in September, we think poke delivers on this perfectly”. POND launched. Spearheaded by Byron Kojawan, Bjorn Van Der Horst’s eccentric Knight, who was in the vanguard of izakaya (a Japanese gastro-pub) on the 23rd London’s rebooted barbecue scene floor of the Hilton Metropole, is offering a when he launched Duke’s Brew and stone bass poke served with shiso, jalapeno Cue, POND was inspired by the time and sake, which is really quite delicious. he’d spent working in LA in a HawaiianWhat’s the future of poke? I’m not sure, inspired restaurant named Shiro, and the but it must say something that Pret a massive popularity of Roy’s, which quickly Manger has even introduced its version of established itself as a national franchise. the dish at a number of locations.
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King of the Road Having celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, Raffles Chelsea is asserting its place in London’s social scene with a host of external events and new club nights throughout 2016
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affles Chelsea is a private members’ club where a star-studded guest list is a weekly occurrence. Along with A-listers from musical, political and high society circles, even Barbra Streisand, Dame Vivienne Westwood and Johnny
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Depp have been known to walk the halls of the King’s Road venue. It is also rumoured to be one of the few nightclubs HM The Queen has ever visited. Raffles Chelsea has championed its exclusivity ever since opening its doors
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| news |
in the 1960s.Having recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, the Berkeley Square venue has made a series of changes to its agenda: it recently welcomed new members to its events team, who have been busy creating exclusive club nights to cater for its diverse range of guests. Fans of house music will be able to enjoy DJ sets from the likes of Jamie Jones, the Martinez Brothers, Seth Troxler, Sven Vath and Guy Gerber at LEVEL Thursdays, a new weekly event, and, come Christmas, the venue will be treated to a Narnia-themed makeover complete with a wardrobe-like front door and snow leopard waiters. Not yet a member? Don’t worry – Raffles Chelsea is available to hire for
Raffles will be hosting a series of external events throughout the year private and corporate functions, whether you’re a regular or not. For a taste of the club’s offerings, Raffles will be hosting a series of external events throughout the year. In August, the team will gather its best batsmen and bowlers for a cricket match in Burton Court, with outdoor games, a barbecue, champagne, Pimm’s and summer cocktails. In October, Raffles Rumble, sponsored by Grey Goose, returns. The venue’s boxing talent will get in the ring with some surprise celebrity guests, all in the name of charity. And finally, to round off a busy year, the club will celebrate its 51st anniversary with a massive party and an enviable line-up. Raffles may have been entertaining the area for over five decades, but it shows no signs of slowing down. Here’s to the next 50 years. 287 King’s Road, SW3, raffleschelsea.com; for membership enquiries, email info@raffleschelsea.com
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The Making of McKellen Sir Ian McKellen is one of Britain’s most respected and gifted thespians, a man whose résumé warrants a lifetime of conversation. Yet, his current and ongoing preoccupation remains the plays of William Shakespeare. James Lawrence meets a giant of his generation
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elaxing in his comfortable Docklands home, I wonder if Sir Ian McKellen can sense my unease. I keep silently ruminating about how one can possibly broach new territory with an actor that has been crossexamined by journalists countless times. So he challenges me to pursue an original line of questioning, following my admittance of guilt. “Out of interest then, what’s your favourite brand of clothing, say underwear for example – are thongs your forte, Ian?” is my riposte. “I don’t think I want to answer that, James,” says McKellen with his trademark wry smile. Give it ten seconds
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though, and he decides to take the bait: “My favourite type of underwear ultimately depends on the man wearing them, I’ll say that much.” A typically genial response from a man who is as celebrated for his humility and on-going charity work, as he is for his remarkable work on stage and screen. McKellen has literally done it all – Macbeth, King Lear, The Simpsons, Have I Got News for You, The X-Men trilogy and, of course, Lord of The Rings. The latter trilogy saw McKellen commemorate his much-lauded performance as Gandalf with a shoulder tattoo of the Elvish number nine, written
using Tolkien’s artificial script of Tengwar. In recent years, he has fought and won a battle with prostate cancer – first diagnosed in 2006 – and played a cameo role in Coronation Street. He also owns a share in an excellent pub in East London called The Grapes, a Grade II-listed building in Limehouse. Celebrated for his roles in a string of highly successful blockbusters, McKellen nonetheless came relatively late to film, a fact one tends to forget among the (deserved) hype surrounding the actor. Indeed, he didn’t really achieve superstar status until The Fellowship of The Ring came to cinemas in 2001.
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© Sarah Dunn
He also remains highly committed to theatre work, although passing over the directorship of the National Theatre, much to everyone’s surprise. Today, McKellen is not in the mood to talk at length about his multifaceted career, or the benefits of owning a local watering hole. Technology is on his mind, specifically a new iOS app he helped to create called ‘Heuristic Shakespeare - The Tempest’. Produced in collaboration with renowned director Richard Loncraine, the app offers users scrolling text of the full version of the play, supported by video footage of each member of the cast reading their lines – or in other words, a portable performance of The Tempest. It is the first in a series of 37 individual apps that will cover all of Shakespeare’s plays, from Macbeth to Romeo and Juliet. “Reading the script of any play is a problem, even for seasoned actors like me,” admits McKellen, when questioned about his interest in this latest piece of digital wizardry. “Shakespeare in particular continues to give actors headaches – approaching a Shakespeare play for the first time without any guidance is like trying to teach music to children by simply giving them a series of notes on a sheet. Just having the language isn’t enough, you need the tools to help you understand it. “So I decided to get involved as I want to inspire children – and teachers – to embrace Shakespeare in all its glory. I only wish this technology had been around when I was their age – I remember that Shakespeare bored most of my school friends to tears.” McKellen’s unquenchable passion for Shakespeare is quite remarkable, particularly as the actor has been required to immerse himself in these complex and demanding plays for many decades. Indeed, William Shakespeare has been McKellen’s constant companion since his childhood. “My sister took me to an amateur production of Twelfth Night at Wigan’s Little Theatre when I was eight years old, from then on I was hooked,” he says. “After that, I begged her continuously to take me to different productions.” Despite such impressive devotion, I enquire as to whether McKellen has lost any passion for acting in a wider sense? “Not one bit,” comes the immediate reply. “I’m still learning, refining my craft and getting better. In fact, I still have plenty to learn, despite my age.” Born in Burnley, Lancashire, McKellen’s father was a civil engineer and lay preacher descent of Protestant, who died when he was 24. His mother sadly didn’t even witness McKellen’s journey beyond childhood, dying when the actor was just 12. Yet, of his childhood, McKellen paints a generally happy picture, albeit his teenage years were conversely fraught with his
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Ian McKellen in The Da Vinci Code © Columbia Pictures
Ian McKellen filming Mr. Holmes © Giles Keyte
Ian McKellen in X-Men: The Last Stand © 20th Century Fox
Ian McKellen in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug © Warner Bros.
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| INTERVIEW |
THIS IMAGE Ian McKellen in Mr. Holmes © Giles Keyte RIGHT Ian McKellen in The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King © Entertainment Film Distributors
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struggle to accept his homosexuality. “My time at Cambridge helped my selfconfidence enormously, but I don’t think I really started to feel truly comfortable until the first time I fell in love in the 1960s. After that, I started to relax and enjoy myself.” His long-term relationship with former boyfriend, director Sean Mathias, evolved into a professional collaboration long ago, and they continue to run The Grapes in partnership with Evgeny Lebedev. Conveniently for McKellen, The Grapes is situated within staggering distance of his very imposing five-storey Victorian townhouse. “The area has changed a great deal since the ’80s when I first moved in,” he observes. “It used to be far more industrial and ‘alive’ in a sense, although the past decade has seen a tremendous amount of development. But, living here means I can enjoy daily views of the river, something that’s impossible in the West End. More to the point, I could never afford a house in Zone 1, even if I wanted to live there.” But if you want to get McKellen really energised, then simply mention his ongoing activism, a subject which seemingly arouses more excitement from the veteran actor than his distinguished career. He was a co-founder of Stonewall, is a current patron of Pride London, and among his many achievements told Michael Howard to “Fu*k off ”, regarding the then environmental secretary’s support of Section 28. McKellen came out in 1988 during a BBC Radio interview with former Sunday Telegraph editor Sir Peregrine Worsthorne, although he has since admitted that he “regrets leaving it so late.” “The reactions to my coming out on radio were, as you’d expect, decidedly mixed,” says McKellen simply. “Some people were very supportive but there was also the abuse and death threats following the interview.” Among McKellen’s less enthusiastic fans was the former Bishop of Glasgow, who described him as: “The Son of the Devil.” I ask him if he has ever regretted his decision to come out? “Never, James – moreover I didn’t really get upset, because I knew I was right – the only antidote to prejudice is to simply be yourself, as prejudice grows out of ignorance,” he replies, candidly. Indeed, as friends of McKellen will testify, the actor is blessed with an extremely thick skin and robust constitution. He observes wryly that:
“Actors spend their life being criticised by directors, it’s a fact of life. I don’t take criticism personally.” But as a journalist and critic I’m curious if McKellen reads reviews and takes to heart the less favourable ones. To this he says: “Believe it or not, I have a reasonable amount of empathy with the press; in my younger years, I seriously considered a career as a journalist. And so when critics slate releases I sometimes find myself agreeing with them; I’ve paid to see some terrible films, like everyone. “The only problem with journalists criticising films is that it’s too late to change anything, although if people criticise my work in a theatre production, for example, I will listen to their concerns.” Time passes all too quickly during our conversation, but I quickly snatch a final question before his publicist wraps things up – which other actor or actors does he particularly admire? “I admire anyone who makes it in this game,” he says. “In some ways acting is a wretched profession, James, underpaid on the whole and there simply isn’t enough work. It’s a tough life.” But if it’s so dreadful Ian, why do you continue to resist the allure of retirement? After all, McKellen turns 77 this year and has already organised the finer details of his own memorial service, to take place in a theatre, of course. So the remark can’t be allowed to slip by. “I’m just planning ahead but I have no desire to retire from acting,” he replies, with that trademark smile. “In fact, nothing would stop me from working, save for a serious medical issue. I love my craft too much. But look, even if I lose my legs, I can still do radio. So all would not be lost.” Heuristic Shakespeare – The Tempest app is available to purchase through the Apple app store for £4.49
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| INTERVIEW |
“I
r Mo
Peter Singer is considered a founding father of the modern animal rights movement. He is a vegan who gives away a third of his income to charity. So why has this Australian moral philosopher been described as one of the most dangerous men on the planet?
don’t really like that my ideas upset people – I’d much rather everyone just agreed with me. But the upside is that my views get attention. And the fact is that I only say things which I know to be fully defensible,” says Peter Singer. Singer’s ideas have certainly won him his fair amount of opprobrium. The Professor of Bio-ethics at Princeton University has been described as “the world’s most influential living philosopher” by The New Yorker, and “the most dangerous man on Earth” by the disability rights group Not Dead Yet. A US Congressman once described Singer as taking “the Josef Mengele chair in bio-ethics”. Then again, Singer has argued for tolerance for abortion, euthanasia, infanticide and, most recently, the idea that everyone should give away a percentage of their income to help those more in need. He doesn’t avoid the tough subjects. “There’s that ‘yuk’ reaction, which is sometimes healthy, but is sometimes just wrong,” says Singer. “Look at our reaction once to homosexuality. Very often people grossly misunderstand what I say. If they read my books more fully they’d understand that my ideas come from a standpoint of compassion – prevention of unnecessary suffering is the strongest driver I have.” Forty years ago, Singer published the pioneering Animal Liberation, which argued that the suffering of animals – or nonhumans, as Singer would correct, since we’re all animals – was comparable to human suffering, and that some animals should be given greater consideration. He defined what he called ‘speciesism’ – that our attitude towards animals was predicated on little more than our favouring our own species’ interests over those of other sentient creatures, and, while it may be deeply rooted in culture is no more defensible than, say, racism, which all right-thinking people recognise as twisted thinking. Logically – if self-awareness and the ability to hold preferences and to suffer are yardsticks of our expectations to fair treatment – we should at least give equal rights to, say, a primate as to a three-yearold child, Singer argues. After all, the ape is as self-aware, rational and able to feel pain as the child, and perhaps more so than, for instance, a brain-damaged adult. This is not, as it has been characterised, to insult the disabled, but an attempt to encourage more consideration for
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the animal. The only logical action, says Singer, is to stop supporting the primary mechanism of speciesism by not consuming animal products. Singer has been a vegan since the 1970s, back when the idea was deeply oddball. “My views about animals were clearly revolutionary at the time – we’ve eaten animals for as long as we’ve been around, as far as we can tell. And to me it’s very important that the ideas I look at have an impact on the real world. People talk to me about changing capitalism, for example, but I just don’t see that that’s going to happen, so I’m not interested, at least not until someone can tell me the alternative. “I’m much more interested in effecting incremental change – and it’s a reality that
gives away around a third of his income. Again, like factory farming conditions, the facts of the extreme, and growing, wealth divide are widely known. Yet few do anything about it. How many people, he challenges, would have stopped to assist two-year-old Wang Yue, who was run over by a van in Foshan, China, and then later died of her injuries, after having been ignored by countless passers-by as she lay on the ground? Most people say yes they would. And yet, he notes, in 2011, almost seven million children under five died from preventable, poverty-related diseases. Since there are now the systems that, within seconds, can connect the people reading this article to the 19,000 children who die each day,
“I’m much more interested in effecting incremental change – and it’s a reality that lots of people have stopped eating animals” lots of people have stopped eating animals, although while there’s been a lot of positive change it’s nowhere near close to what I’d have liked for 40 years. So there’s some disappointment that change has been so slow.” Indeed, perhaps it is that disappointment that has driven the Australian big thinker onto his latest subject. If, as he reluctantly accepts, giving up animal products is a step too far for many, even with knowledge of the barbarism of industrialised farming, what about reviving a more ancient, religious, human-focused idea, that of the tithe – the giving of one-tenth of one’s salary for use in good causes? Given rising wealth – at the top at least – it’s a timely idea. Singer’s latest thoughts, summarised in The Most Good You Can Do, have been turned towards notions of giving in the 21st century. Since in the West we consume largely to feed our want rather than our need, Peter argues, we should each give as much of our excess income away as possible to improve, and even save, the lives of the many millions around the world living in dire poverty. He suggests starting with a tenth and working one’s commitment upwards year on year, or – like a self-imposed tax – giving in line with a sliding scale of income. He personally
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morally these children are no different to the one laying in the street. Singer’s call for action gets even more nuanced – he calls for effective altruism: not just token donations to various charities that successfully press certain sentimental buttons – such donations, he says, allow the assuaging of a certain Western consumerist guilt – but a wholesale redirection of how one’s money is used with a view to maximum effectiveness. This might mean taking a hard-nosed look at the efficiency of certain charitable organisations. Technology is assisting in providing the necessary new insight here, and Singer has launched one of a growing number of on-line metrics systems to calculate this data, showing that some charities are hundreds, even thousands of times more effective than others. Singer also recommends investigating to which causes are best to donate. It may be the less obvious, less heartstring-tugging causes that, in fact, save the greatest number of lives: the distribution of mosquito nets, for example. “Starting to give your money away effectively is easier to get going with. Few people decide to just stop
eating meat on Mondays. It’s more all or nothing,” says Singer. “But there’s still a lot of controversy around ideas of effective altruism. There are still lots of people raising money for projects that aren’t an effective use of it – for new opera houses and the like. Unfortunately, certain people are very invested in that kind of project. People give a lot of money so they can have their name on a new wing.” One hundred million dollars was not long ago donated by a philanthropist to renovate New York’s Lincoln Center concert hall: just $100 can restore the sight of a blind person, Singer notes. Which use of that money, to speak in the language of the financial industries, maximises return? If only people asked the right analytical questions of their giving, they would give more rationally. Then again, it is precisely those questions that get in the way of the emotions that drive most of our giving. “We’re just not very good at giving weight to those things that don’t speak to the heart,” says Singer, whose father told him he’d never make a living as a philosopher, but who has won renown in this often dusty academic field by speaking about issues that affect us all. “Had someone told me a month earlier that soon I would not eat meat again I’d have been very surprised. But the argument was just that compelling, even though it wasn’t an idea that was particularly popular. In fact, it was pretty wacky.” So might be perceived – in a largely individualised, consumerist Western society – the idea of giving away your excess income. But don’t bet against Singer on that remaining the case forever. “Is it possible to get many people to think about effective altruism? Well, maybe not,” he concedes. “But interest in effective altruism is strong and growing rapidly. There are people out there, part of what is becoming a movement, who are making these changes – what most people would think of as sacrifices – and setting a certain example.”
further reading The Most Good You Can Do, How Effective Altruism is Changing Ideas About Living Ethically, Peter Singer, May 2015, Yale University Press One World Now, The Ethics of Globalization, Peter Singer, September 2016, Yale University Press Animal Liberation, The Definitive Classic of the Animal Movement, Peter Singer, 1975, Harper Collins
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WATCHES & JEWELLERY Celebrating the delightful and the divine from the world of fine jewellery and haute horology
SOPHIE’S CHOICE In a true celebration of Britishness, Sophie Dahl was the inspiration behind jeweller Boodles’s new collection, which has aptly been christened after the former model and bestselling author. The range’s abstract heart-shaped design pays tribute to Dahl’s loyalty over the last three years as the brand’s ambassador and muse, and has been set within two pendants – one in platinum and white diamonds, the other in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds and pale pink mother-of-pearl detailing. This feminine and wearable design has been created from diamond-set lines that meet in the middle to form an infinite circle. The collection will shortly be extended to include earrings and bracelets. Sophie collection, The Royal Exchange, EC3, boodles.com
Photography Greg Williams
WAtches
Words: Richard Brown
C ub an Love Af fai r Z enith’s f ling with Cuba continu es. Having made a watch to celebrat e Th e Rolling Ston es’ first Havana concert in March , th e chronograph sp eciali st marks th e 50th anniversar y of Cohiba cigars with anoth er limit ed-edition series. Th e El P rim ero Chronomast er 1969 Cohiba Edition places on e of th e most famous movem ents in watchmaking b elow a Havana brown dial adorn ed with both companies’ logos. Fifty watch es are b eing released in rose gold . E xp ect th em to b ecom e collectors’ pieces imm ediat ely. El Prim ero Chronomast er 1969 Cohiba Edition , £14,900, zenith-watches.com
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| collection |
bulova on the ball
Bulova has stepped up its game with the debut of the world’s first curved chronograph movement, the Bulova CURV. The ergonomic design, following the shape of the wrist, is backed by Bulova’s highperformance quartz movement that vibrates at 262kHz, eight times more than standard watches, and accurate to a few seconds a year. To celebrate, The City Magazine was invited by Bulova to see if we could get ahead of the competition at Manchester United’s Aon Training Complex. With the help of Academy coaches, we were put through our paces with a group of other unfit but enthusiastic journalists. We expect our contracts through the post, Jose. Bulova CURV, from £449, bulova.com
added time
Having become the first luxury watch brand to invest in football eight years ago, when it became partner to UEFA Euro 2008, the past month has seen Hublot strengthen its ties to the beautiful game. On the eve of Euro 2016, for which the brand again acts as official timekeeper, two teams of football legends coached by Pelé and Maradona played in Paris to launch the new Big Bang Unico Retrograde Chronograph, a watch designed specifically to time matches – it records halves, extra time and injury time – alongside telling the actual time, of course. Bedecked in the French Tricolore, only 100 are available. Budding referees get moving. Big Bang Unico Retrograde Chronograph UEFA EURO 2016, £19,700, hublot.com
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Hammer Time Panerai’s popularity may have proliferated in the past decade, but you’re still unlikely to see many of the company’s latest creations on the capital’s streets. The Radiomir 1940 Minute Repeater Carillon Tourbillon GMT is capable of chiming the time in two time zones – using three hammers, rather than the typical two – making it a rare thing indeed. The watch’s £280k price tag should serve as an indication of just how hard this technical feat is to achieve. That, and the fact that only a handful can be produced each year. panerai.com
Montblanc’s Material World
When Montblanc entered the watch world, it could have taken the easy option and pumped out a series of fashion watches. Instead, the company chose to instate itself as a serious watchmaker by manufacturing mechanically-sound timepieces that stood up to the scrutiny of critics. Montblanc continues to assert itself with the TimeWalker Pythagore Ultra-Light Concept. Weighing less than 15 grams, it’s one of the lightest mechanical watches around. This has been achieved by combining Kevlar with a super rare type of resin, a first in the arena of case-making. TimeWalker Pythagore Ultra-Light Concept, montblanc.com
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Occupy London A
As the company opens a new boutique in Knightsbridge, Richard Brown looks at how Watches of Switzerland took over the capital
ccording to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry, last year Switzerland exported 460,000 fewer watches than it did in 2014. This translated into a downturn of around £500m, the first time the country has reported a slump in sales since 2009. This year, the industry is braced for an even steeper fall. Like-for-like sales in April were down double digits at -11.1 per cent, while, overall, the first four months of 2016 have yielded a 9.5 per cent nose dive. None of this you would know by looking at the UK high street, where watch shops have become as ubiquitous as chain restaurants and fancy places to get your hair done. The UK imported more Swiss watches than ever before in 2015, around £830 million’s worth, the Federation says. By
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April this year, we had overtaken Singapore and UAE to become Switzerland’s seventhlargest watch market, our imports having surged by 30.9 per cent compared to the first four months of 2014. No other retailer, in London especially, has done more to fuel our appetite for luxury timepieces than Watches of Switzerland. In 2014, 90 years after it began trading on Ludgate Hill, the company opened a flagship store at 155 Regent Street. Setting 12 individual boutiques across three floors of more than 17,000 sq ft of retail space, it became the largest watch destination in Europe. The brand expansion didn’t stop there. Last year, Watches of Switzerland opened stores in Oxford Street, Canary Wharf and Heathrow Terminal 5 – having already operated out of Terminals 3 and 4.
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The company that owns Watches of Switzerland, Aurum Group, also owns Mappin & Webb and Goldsmiths, as well as more recent online acquisitions The Watch Hut and Watch Shop. Last month, under the stewardship of CEO Brian Duffy, previously president of Ralph Lauren EMEA, Aurum announced that it is now responsible for 31 per cent of all UK watch sales – Watches of Switzerland’s 155 Regent Street store having reported sales of £82 million in its first two years alone. That flagship boutique, it was announced in 2014, would constitute what Watches of Switzerland called the ‘Golden Triangle’ – a trio of central London showrooms that includes the store on Oxford Street and a newly-opened address in Knightsbridge. This latest showroom, located at 47-51 Brompton Road, houses the first Patek Philippe boutique in Knightsbridge, a Rolex-dedicated showroom, as well as spaces designated to Cartier, Jaeger-
ABOVE The new Watches of Switzerland Knightsbridge store houses the first Patek Philippe boutique in Knightsbridge
LeCoultre, IWC, Chopard, Breitling, Zenith, TAG Heuer and Longines. “The opening of Knightsbridge Watches of Switzerland consolidates the brand’s position as the world’s most forwardthinking, customer-focused luxury watch retailer,” says Duffy. If the UK’s taste for mechanical timepieces persists, it could soon overtake Germany and Italy as the largest watch market in Europe. For that, Switzerland, you can thank Duffy & co. Watches of Switzerland also operates a store in The Royal Exchange, EC3, watches-of-switzerland.co.uk
Aurum Group CEO, Brian Duffy
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| COLLECTION |
jewellery
Words: olivia sharpe
The Great Gatsby
Out of Africa
Zimbabwean Chelsea Davy has taken inspiration from her African roots to create her first jewellery line for her new brand, Aya. Africa is a continent rich in coloured gemstones, and Davy has chosen to honour this in her Zambezi collection. Ethically sourced Zambian emeralds, Mozambican rubies by Gemfields and Tanzanian tanzanites have been set into pendants, bangles, bracelets, earrings and rings in 18-karat yellow gold. The lawyer turned designer has also paid tribute to the elephants surrounding her family’s River House. The Mosi-Oa-Tunya (meaning The Smoke which Thunders) earrings feature tusks embedded with emeralds that swing from a gold chain. Zambezi collection, from £575, available at Baar & Bass, 336 King’s Road, SW3 aya.co.uk
GRAND SLAM
As we approach one of the highlights of the British summer sporting calendar, the Wimbledon Championships, Links of London gets us ready with its dedicated collection as the Official Jeweller Licensee for the 23rd year running. Taking inspiration from the Wimbledon grounds and museum, as well as the sport itself, the playful line includes Tennis Ball earrings and bracelets, along with iconic charms such as a celebratory champagne glass and tennis visor set in 18-karat rose gold vermeil, among others. Prices start from £55 linksoflondon.com
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Downton Abbey may be over, but the demand for vintage costume jewellery is still going strong. With this in mind, French jeweller Lalique has stepped back in time to the 1920s to create its S/S16 jewellery collection. Popular designs of the period, including art deco lines and graphic accents, have been sculpted into pieces suited for the modern day, such as a cascading necklaces featuring beaded tassels and monochrome crystals, and dramatic cocktails rings. The collection has been divided into four lines – Vibrante, Icône, Charmante and Gourmande – each of which presents its own take on art deco. From £165-760 lalique.com
Fairy Tale
From a winged ear cuff worn by Rihanna to a diamond ring inspired by the New York skyline, Mayfair jeweller Jessica McCormack has carved out a reputation for creating unique, one-off pieces. Adding to this, McCormack recently designed a bridal collection of six couture pieces which can still be tailored to the wearer, who can select the size of the stone ( from 0.20-carats to 20.00-carats) and the choice of metal. Each design tells its own story: the enchanting Little Mermaid ring captures the famous Hans Christian Andersen tale and incorporates the jeweller’s signature Georgian-inspired cut-down setting, while the Space Odyssey ring draws reference to Stanley Kubrick’s sci-fi film epic with its futuristic, geometric design. Couture Bridal Collection, POA, jessicamccormack.com
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© 2016 D. Swarovski Distribution GmbH, Swarovskistraße 30, 6112 Wattens, Austria.
HANDPICKED LUXURY FASHION JEWELLERY
JUBILEE PL ACE MALL
T E L . 0 2 0 7 513 2 9 6 4
GAS BIJOUX Earrings £69 / €99 Necklace £109 / €149
CAROLINE NÉRON Long Necklace £149 / €179
CADENZZA Fingertip Rings £39 / €39
GILES & BROTHE Rings £79 / €89
GAS BIJOUX Cuff £99 / €139 Delicate Cuff £59 / €79 Bracelet £59 / €79
FIFTIES fanfare SPRING/SUMMER 16 INHERITS Full skirts, high waists, cat-eyes and peplumS. Here’s our edit of the fifties fortunes Gaby Dress Rose Hip Night, £880, Erdem, erdem.com e rd e m Fifties f lorals feature throughout Erdem’s S/S16 collection , where they ’ve worked their way onto fitted bodices and voluminous f lounced skirts that hone, or rather own , the hourglass silhouette.
net-a-porter The fashion-forward crowd over at NET-A-PORTER aren’t afraid to look back. This season, they’re embracing the return of retro, with a nod to fifties fashion across its site. Thanks to the team, you’ll be going from rags to riches and rocking around the clock in some seriously knockout numbers. net-a-porter.com
Effie Dress Blue Dandelion, £1,890, Erdem, erdem.com
beulah Beulah London flirts with the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, giving each ensemble an inspired update. Florals feature throughout, as do full and floaty skirts, referencing the end of the fashion ration and start of the New Look revolution that was led by Christian Dior. beulahlondon.com
Pleated gingham cotton midi skirt, £360, Lisa Marie Fernandez
Boyd Vanity matteleather shoulder bag, £735, Eddie Borgo
Jenna woven metallic raffia midi skirt, £995, Roksanda, all available from net-a-porter.com
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c aro l i na h e rre r a Carolina Herrera painted a pretty little picture for spring 2016, with shirt dresses and A-line skirts in a gorgeous soft palette that shone a light on the softer side of the season’s hottest trends. Perfect for afternoon tea at Claridge’s, or a day at the races for a chance of winning best dressed. carolinaherrera .com
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| style |
vionnet resort 17 preview
Cinched waists were an important aspect of ’50s fashion, with corsets having a body-modifying effect on women throughout the decade. Vionnet’s Resort 17 collection takes less extreme measures, but ultimately achieves sinuous silhouettes and feminine form through clever lines and precise cuts. Stunning silk chiffon and embroidered tulle join force and the outcome is nothing short of spectacular. vionnet.com
farfetch The buyers over at Farfetch are just as excited by the return of ’50s fashion, with icons like cat-eye sunglasses, espadrilles and floral frocks making the cut in their carefully curated edit. Go on, channel your inner Dita Von Teese.
farfetch.com
Lemon-print slim tapered-leg trousers, £525, Dolce & Gabbana, matchesfashion.com
from top Floral jacquard mini dress, £3,592, Carolina Herrera; Josa sunglasses, £310, Oliver Peoples; Hamptons wedge espadrilles, £141, Manebi, all available from farfetch.com
emilia wickstead Models at the Emilia Wickstead’s S/S16 catwalk show sashayed down the runway in a mustard, apricot and pistachio palette that recalled the era. The highlight, however, was a floral print that one might expect to find in a ’50s dining room. Wickstead’s silhouettes were standout as she experimented with proportions and achieved a modern interpretation of a ladylike look. emiliawickstead.com
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Striped texturedcotton shorts, £151, Mara Hoffman, matchesfashion.com
m at c h e s fa sh i o n S om etim e a v oluminous skirt i s simply impractical , and that ’s w h en our Fifties fillies opt for a pair of high-wai st ed shorts or tailored Capri trousers. We’re particularly excit ed by D olce & Gabbana’s lemon trousers. matchesfashion .com
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| STYLE |
STRIP THE SHOULDER From asymetric dresses to fallen straps and hanging sleeves, this season, give them the cold shoulder
“Something shapeless that drapes across your hip, hangs off the shoulder; something that cowls in the front, drapes low in the back – that’s sexy” – Rachel Zoe, fashion designer and celebrity stylist
Alexander McQueen spring 2016 ready-to-wear, alexandermcqueen.com
Zac Posen spring 2016 ready-to-wear, zacposen.com
Marchesa S/S16, marchesa.com
Escada spring 2016 ready-to-wear, escada.com Rebecca Minkoff spring 2016 collection, rebeccaminkoff.com
Elie Saab spring 2016 couture collection, eliesaab.com
Calvin Klein Collection S/S16 ready-to-wear, calvinklein.com
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Quality me time begins with
Cyberjammies
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| beauty |
colour me happy Golden hues, shimmering shadows and a burst of bright colour signal THE START OF summer in the city
Inspired by a getaway to the French Riviera, Under Cover is the new summer make-up collection from NARS. Bright eyes are paired with glossy lips for a sizzling hot summer statement. Lip Cover - Members Only, £21; Dual-Intensity Eyeshadow - Deep End, £21, NARS, narscosmetics.co.uk
L ast month , we dropped by th e n ew Chan el count er at House of Fraser City, w h ere on e of Chan el’s talent ed make-up arti sts tailored a st ep-by-st ep tutorial to guide us through th e n ew In th e Summ er Light Collection . Th e Empreint e du Désert set of four eyeshadows proved itself a stand out star product. chanel .com
goddess Summer has finally arrived and Estée Lauder is turning up the heat. Its Golden Goddess Collection features new sunlit nudes and bold brights, including a limitededition Summer Glow Multi Palette. esteelauder.co.uk
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Eyes are enhanced by an ombré effect of ochres and browns the glitterati It’s a Savage Escape over at YSL this season, with Cara Delevingne fronting its campaign. The collection was inspired by the blue eyeshadow trends which were documented during the spring/summer 2016 catwalk shows. We’ve fallen in love with the glistening nail polishes, and equally dazzling liquid eyeshadows. yslbeauty.co.uk
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Tales of the Orient Japan’s bustling capital blends the time-honoured with the ultramodern, making for a compelling backdrop to a heritage-inspired fashion foray. For grown-up tailoring, it’s time to look east PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN KAMARA STYLIST: CHIKA MIYAMOTO
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| fashion |
Woven long jacket, £1,860, Woven shirt, £500, Woven pants (reference product for price), Woven stripe scarf, £290, Yohji Yamamoto, yohjiyamamoto.co.jp; M7789 / BLK boots, £390, Tricker’s, trickers.com; Glasses, model’s own
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THIS PAGE Mayfair twin windowpane suit (reference product for price), Poplin mayfair shirt, £95, Solid panama tie, £75, Saffiano feather edge belt, £90, Hackett London, hackett.com; Ring, stylist’s own OPPOSITE PAGE Cotton linen washed check jacket (reference product for price), Mayfair mini dash jacquard shirt, £145, London Paisley simple tie, £85, Hackett London, as before; Glasses, model’s own; Ring, model’s own
| fashion |
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| fashion |
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OPPOSITE PAGE Tan herringbone jacket (reference product for price), Indigo mini stripe shirt, £95, Plain wool trouser, £160, Solid grenadine tie, £90, Hackett London, as before; M7705 / BRN shoes, £375, Tricker’s, as before; Ring, model’s own THIS PAGE Mayfair blue cotton jacket (reference product for price), White shirt, £115, Sanderson tailored chino trouser (reference product for price), Two bar sophisticated stripe tie, £75, Hackett London, as before; Glasses, model’s own Ring, Stylist’s own
Tan herringbone jacket (reference product for price), Indigo mini stripe shirt, ÂŁ95, Solid grenadine tie, ÂŁ90, Hackett London, as before
| fashion |
Peak dinner suit (reference product for price), Pleat slim double cuff shirt, £110, Bow tie (reference product for price), Cufflinks (reference product for price), Hackett London, as before; Rings, model’s and stylist’s own ART DIRECTOR: Arianna Marin PHOTOGRAPHIC ASSISTANT: Keiichi Shirakawa HAIR: Yoshifumi Iwasaki MODEL: Takashi Yasumoto @ Indigo Shot on location at Kosoan, kosoan.co.jp
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MBII
A PI LOT ’S WATCH SH O U L D EN DU R E E VERY T H I N G T H E PI LOT DO E S . The Bremont MB range is built in collaboration with British firm Martin-Baker, the pioneers of the ejection seat. At their test centre, the watches are strapped to the wrist of a crash-test dummy and shot out of the cockpit. Enduring forces of between 12G and 30G in the process. But this doesn’t mean the MB is built for endurance at the expense of performance. It’s a beautifully-engineered mechanical chronometer certified 99.998% accurate by COSC.
City of London Boutique 12 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange, London, EC3V 3LQ Tel: +44 (0) 207 220 7134
| STYLE |
Youth in
revolt Last month’s London Collections Men was once again the best place to see the future of menswear– and the brands re-energising the scene in the face of uncertainty words: david taylor
Coach SS17 (Shaun James Cox, British Fashion Council)
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| style | Hardy Amies SS17 (Vic Lentaigne, British Fashion Council)
I
f the shows of London Collections Men S/S17 are a good gauge of the direction of menswear – and judging by last season’s predictions, they are – men’s heritage is in a bit of trouble. Gone are the days, it seems, of rows of male models suiting up for the traditional brands. Cases in point: currently without a creative director after parting ways with Simon Spurr, Gieves & Hawkes didn’t show, while LCM stalwart Burberry decided instead to show both men’s and women’s in the same show, to be held on the women’s schedule. LCM, and the men’s calendar in general, is changing its approach. In the wake of some of the more ‘heritage’ brands’ absence, a sportier, more contemporary influence lead the charge, while still retaining the traditional feel of Savile Row. Weekend
designers and press faintly frustrated and confused. Brands showcasing their wares ranged from the well known, such as Dr. Martens and Ettinger, to the brands bravely dipping their feet into an arguably oversaturated market. Lu + Mei, for instance, hits the trench coat/rain mac trend well, with a creative director and two LCM ghost designers helping the brand make a name for itself. Iffley Road has taken athletic wear, recently enjoying a resurgence, and created quality running apparel, reminiscent of that seen in Chariots of Fire. The bright young things of men’s style were out in force, especially on the catwalks. The J.W. Anderson collection was bold, brash and defiant, with oversized sleeves and loose fits abundant. Grace Wales Bonner, already
In the wake of some of the more ‘heritage’ brands’ absence, a sportier, more contemporary influence lead the charge wear is the creative field of the day, and some more traditional brands have embraced the designs and direction of the young designers who are the real stars of London’s fashion scene. The atmosphere at 180 The Strand, an empty office block recently used by Louis Vuitton’s travelling showcase, and the central hub of the British Fashion Council’s events during LCM, was excitable. The space was an improvement on last year, when events were shared between the Strand and Victoria House, leaving
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New & Lingwood
well known for her strong exploration of black male representation (and a winner of emerging menswear designer at the British Fashion Awards), didn’t fail to impress, black and white pieces interwoven with rich orange tones. Lou Dalton kept to her remit of confident practicality with a mix of darker and vibrant pieces, the cream trench a personal highlight, and Craig Green explored the propensity for ambition in men’s style with intricate patterning and bright, angular cuts. The question posed at the end of the weekend: Burberry who?
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Even traditional brands can move with the times. John Smedley, founded in 1784, one year after the United States declared independence, proved that knitwear can be contemporary – and worn in summer. image John Smedley SS17 (Zoe Lower, British Fashion Council)
Hardy Amies SS17 (Vic Lentaigne, British Fashion Council)
Grosvenor, Passavant and Lee, Crockett & Jones
Patterns were back in business this season, with both stripes and checks making an appearance across the show from a wide range of designers. Oliver Spencer SS17 (Nigel Pacquette, British Fashion Council)
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| STYLE |
Trad rocks There was, of course, still much emphasis placed on the traditional brands. Walking along Jermyn Street and Savile Row, impeccably turned-out men of all ages peeked curiously into each shop front, excited to see the next chapter in the revered alleyways’ long stories. Head of design at Hardy Amies, Darren Barrowcliff, called the house’s new collection a “contemporary home for an innovative past”. The tailoring was classic, but with modern twists, and relaxed vintage denim Harvie & Hudson made a conscious appearance throughout the presentation. The self-styled ‘tailors of the unexpected’, Chester Barrie seemed to stick to a rather tried and tested formula. One of the first tailors to offer ready-to-wear tailoring in the 1930s, this legacy remains today, with the new collection developing the softer structure of fabric used, creating a more relaxed vibe. Mixed jacket/ trouser combinations also gave this collection an extra air of informality. Richard James once again was one of the more out-there tailors, with its characteristic colours and design. Added to this was a range of knitwear, outerwear and footwear, complementing the suits with light, pastel shades. The Jermyn Street/St. James’s show, boldly held outside on the tarmac of Jermyn Street, persuaded the crowd that there was life in the old dogs yet, again mixing classic tailoring with a youthful, modern edge. With David Gandy and Jim Chapman in attendance, the show presented the very best that
blue check jacket, paired with a Passavant and Lee bag, and the Harvie & Hudson pink jacket and navy trouser, which both showed how comfort and elegance have become equally as important in modern menswear. One older brand that has been a benefactor of the winds of change has been Simon Carter. The man himself, most well known for his cufflinks, has introduced even more colour to his
usual vibrant collections, with desert and aquatic themes. Also making a comeback, according to Carter, is ’80s fashion, the thick stripes adorning his smarter shirts a throwback to American Psycho or Wall Street, whichever film takes your fancy. One particular jacket caught the eye, an unstructured piece in a grey/blue tone – this, apparently, is ‘grabble’. Look out for more grabble products in the future. As always, LCM was a haze of concept shows, lines of impeccably dressed models, and perhaps one too many cocktails at presentations. There is a risk that without some of the bigger brands, men’s style could fall by the wayside. However, in the capable hands of some of Britain’s finest new designers, and with the help of the old guard, London doesn’t seem to be worried. E. Tautz SS17 (Kris Mitchell, British Fashion Council)
Jermyn Street, St. James’s Showcase
Highlights included the Grosvenor blue check jacket, paired with a Passavant and Lee bag a range of brands had to offer, from a Thomas Pink evening ensemble, to a luxurious New & Lingwood brocade gown. Other highlights included the Grosvenor
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The London Shooting Show on the 16th and 17th of September is an invitation only exclusive event showcasing the best of British game shooting.
Expect to see tweed, fashion, luxury goods and prestigious cars alongside the finest English craftsmanship employed to make the finest guns. Experience the thrill of firing a large calibre rifle or shoot a Purdey shotgun at clay pigeons at this event filled show. Only 40 minutes from the centre of London. The British countryside comes to London in September so –
AIM... TO BE THERE! Book your invitation through
www.londonshootingclub.com/london-shooting-show
LSS FULL PAGE ADVERT 210MM X 297MM.indd 1
20/06/2016 14:30
| STYLE |
Sucker Punch For aN easy-care summer suit, channel To Kill a Mockingbird’S Atticus Finch and OPT for Seersucker
FROM LEFT Ludlow suit jacket, £298, J.Crew, jcrew.com Blue polka-dot cotton-seersucker blazer, £565, Richard James, mrporter.com Seersucker blazer, £39.99, Zara, zara.com/uk
Based on the Persian
šir o šakar –
‘milk and sugar’ – because of the varying feel of the fabric,
Ludlow suit jacket in Japanese seersucker, £298, J.Crew www.jcrew.com Seersucker blazer, £69.99, Zara, www.zara.com/uk
seersucker is the thinking man’s summer material
1
2
3
4
1. Gravier sportcoat, $695, Haspel, haspel.com; 2. Tailored-fit polka dot seersucker blazer, £545, Paul Smith, paulsmith.co.uk; 3. Pure cotton seersucker striped jacket, £119, Marks & Spencer, marksandspencer.com; 4. Seersucker bomber jacket, £400, Armani Collezioni, harrods.com
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| LIFESTYLE |
Summer breeze keep it light with seven summertime scents that are perfect for warmer climes
1. Mr. Burberry, £80, Burberry, uk.burberry.com 2. Eterno, £55, Vince Camuto, houseoffraser.co.uk 3. Layton, £166, Parfums de Marly, harrods.com 4. Aqua Universalis, £110, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, liberty.co.uk 5. Colonia Quercia, £167, Acqua di Parma, selfridges.com 6. Blue, £49, Kenneth Cole, houseoffraser.co.uk 7. Eau d’Orange Verte Eau de Cologne, £81, Hermès, uk.hermes.com
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It’s never too late...
LUXURY BODY BUTTER IN WHITE CASHMERE FROM THE BATH & BODY COLLECTION
www.lilouetloic.com
Iberica ‘La Terraza’
eating
al fresco Whether you’re admiring the sensational skyline up high or sitting in a lively courtyard to soak up the sunshine, take full advantage of the outdoor terraces Canary Wharf has to offer
Ibérica la terrazA
If sitting under the warm summer sun with a cool glass of Cava in hand and an irresistible spread of tapas laid out in front of you sounds appealing, then Ibérica’s ‘La Terraza’ is the place for you. Embracing the Spaniards way of life, Ibérica ‘La Terraza’ in Cabot Square, offers a lavish menu of dishes and drinks from brunch through to late evening in a charming al fresco setting.
CAFé brera Opening its doors over 25 years ago, Café Brera was one of the first coffee shops to arrive in Canary Wharf. Created in true Milanese style, their latest opening in Cabot Square was designed to bring a relaxed Mediterranean feel to the city. With seating surrounded by greenery and overlooking the fountains, you can easily transport yourself aborad while relishing its Italian-inspired menu and a cup of their award-winning coffee.
Big Easy Boasting stunning views of the City along with the East and West India Docks, all-American Big Easy is the perfect location to enjoy the fresh air whilst savouring the delicious tastes of ‘low and slow’ meat and seafood. Situated in Crossrail Place, Big Easy offers a whole range of options for hearty breakfasts, succulent lunches and mouth-watering dinners. Complete your experience with a drink from its impressive drinks list or pay a visit to Big Easy’s Rum Bar, with over 100 bottled rums to choose from.
boisdale For an experience filled with fine Scottish cuisine, exquisite views and electric live jazz music, head to Boisdale in Cabot Place. With an intimate outdoor terrace bursting with charming character and looking over the City skyline, not much is left to be desired. Get caught up in the buzzing atmosphere and end your night with a special cigar or signature whisky.
Pop-ups &
picnics
Le Pain
quotidien
Grab a delectable and homey organic takeaway from Le Pain, in Jubilee Place, to enjoy with the whole family next to the Cabot Square fountains
Carluccio’s
pre-packed picnic Pre-order and pick up an appetizing picnic from Carluccio’s in Reuters Plaza, complete with cool box and cutlery, to enjoy under the sun in Jubilee Park
the parlour Located in Canada Square Park, The Parlour’s exceptional outdoor terrace, complete with its own bar, is perfect for those wanting to catch some rays and enjoy the Summer activities taking place in Canada Square Park. Open all day, you can start or finish your day there with breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. The seasonal European menu is completed with a quirky selection of cocktails and wines.
Wahaca
street food Head to Wahaca’s mobile kitchen, in Canada Square Park, for the ultimate Mexican street food; burritos, tacos and salads to satisfy everyone’s cravings
canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
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Lamborghini living Fifty years after the Miura rewrote the supercar rule book, The City Magazine pays homage to the brand of the raging bull In 1963, three young Italian designers began a secret project to build a sports car. They worked late into the night at a workshop near Bologna, determined to create a machine that would rival their all-conquering neighbours at Ferrari. Not even their boss, Ferruccio Lamborghini, knew exactly what his team was up to in their spare time. Half a century, and a long line of V-12 descendants later, Lamborghini’s creations exist in a category all of their own. No other cars from any other manufacturer generate as much street-side attention as does a Lambo. Razor sharp lines, out-of-this-world looks – nothing delivers so much punch, so much emotion, so much spectacle. Over the next nine pages, The City Magazine salutes the undisputed kings of the veritable supercar.
The most beautiful car in the world? Jeremy Taylor fulfils a dream and drives the legendary Lamborghini Miura…
B
efore the three young Italians began work on their clandestine project, Lamborghini’s fledgling company was already manufacturing one car – the 350 GT. It was a relaxed grand tourer that sold well enough to keep the business afloat. But what Ferruccio’s team was building out of hours was going to change supercar design forever. The Miura was unveiled at Brussels Motor Show in 1966 to rapturous acclaim.
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Lamborghini’s in-house designers may have created the mechanics but it was left to Bertone designer, Marcello Gandini, to add the stunning bodywork. Miura was a two-seat, high performance sports car that placed the engine behind the cabin. It afforded better weight distribution and crucially improved the handling. Rivals like the front-engined Ferrari 275 and Jaguar E-Type just couldn’t compete. Not only that, Lamborghini fitted a 3.9-litre V12 engine that gave its flagship car a startling turn of speed. Back in 1966, the Miura was the fastest production car in the world. It was also the blueprint for pretty much every supercar that followed. Gian Dallara was Lamborghini’s chief designer on the project. “There were a lot of wealthy people in Bologna who drove around the city in a Ferrari. Once our car appeared, everybody sold the 275 to buy a Miura!” The Miura proved so successful that Lamborghini could barely keep up with demand. Frank Sinatra owned a bright orange example, fitted with carpets to match those in his bathroom at home. Elton John, Nicholas Cage and Jamiroquai all own Miuras too, but the car’s most famous moment came in 1969, when
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it was filmed for the opening credits of The Italian Job. The three-minute scene was backed up by a Matt Monro soundtrack. From that moment on, the car’s iconic status had been rubber stamped. Dallara, now 79, went on to design racing cars for Frank Williams and several other F1 teams. In June, he was guest of honour on the first ever Miura Tour – a gathering of 25 cars on a four-day extravaganza across northern Italy. Driving a Miura should be on every car enthusiast’s bucket list. Sadly, with a restoration project costing from £800,000 upwards, it’s unlikely many people will have the opportunity. So when an invitation arrived to travel to Italy and drive Lamborghini’s own example, I was already packing my bag. Twenty-five Miuras may not sound many but then Lamborghini built less than 800 of these legendary coupés between 1966 and 1973. Just 400 are still believed to be in existence – if you own one then you are probably a millionaire. I’m at the wheel of a yellow Miura SV, the final and most powerful production model that dates back to 1971. Miuras were painted in a range of psychedelic colours because owners wanted to personalise their cars to make them stand out. Dallara explained: “Ferraris were traditionally red, Maseratis were blue. Lamborghini had no problem with painting his cars every colour under the sun. It made the Miura look even more different.” Fifty years on and the Miura is quite
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Lamborghini Miura SV THE VITALS Current guide price £800,000-1.2 million Engine V12
The Miura has a sweet spot at around 75mph when everything just comes together a handful to drive. Both the brakes and steering are woefully inadequate, while the cabin is a greenhouse without air conditioning. Then there’s the overheating issue. Lamborghini fitted the Miura with two cooling fans – one had to be manually operated via a switch on the roof when that V12 engine got all hot and bothered in traffic. I’m consequently driving the SV monitoring the water temperature gauge, rather than the speedo. I’ve been told to pull over quick if we hit heavy traffic, which may explain why our police escort is so keen to clear a path at every junction. Fortunately, the Miura has a sweet spot at around 75mph when everything comes together. The five-speed gearbox isn’t grumbling and there’s enough air passing around the engine bay to keep it cool. Gandini’s low-slung bodywork was an aerodynamic masterclass too. The car stands just over 41 inches tall and wind noise is minimal. Open a window and there’s hardly any buffeting. They’re electric windows too! Don’t expect much seat adjustment, the clutch action is high and all Miuras are incredibly noisy. So what is the appeal? “I’ve owned mine for 38 years,” explains
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Horsepower 385bhp Torque 295 @ 5750rpm
Chris Wood, from London. “An aunt left me some money to invest and I bought a Lamborghini – I was almost disowned by the family. “The Miura is a very special car because it’s so beautiful and was the blueprint for all mid-engined supercars. I own an uprated E-Type too. The Lamborghini is my wife and the Jaguar is my mistress.” Iain Tyrrell, from Chester, buys and sells classics. One of his “several” Miuras was filmed in the opening scenes of The Italian Job and is currently for sale at £3 million. “I’ve been passionate about cars since I was ten years old. “I heard the sound of a V12 Espada driving past and I was hooked on Lamborghinis. I still get as much of a buzz from the Miura today as the first time I drove it. It left everything for dead – it was so far ahead of its time.” Miura prices lulled in the doldrums for decades but have soared in recent years, mirroring a rise in Lamborghini’s renewed popularity. Sir Rod Stewart’s Miura has recently been on the market at £1.2 million. Tyrrell explains: “Miuras have to be driven or they start to fester. It’s not a car that appreciates being left in a garage as an asset.”
Displacement 3929cc 0-60 5.7 secs Top speed 170mph
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Along came a
Spyder
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If the Miura represents Lamborghini’s origins, then the Huracán symbolises its future. Steve Sutcliffe hits the mean streets of Miami, where the convertible version of the brand’s V10 pocket rocket delivers an awe-inspiring dose of street theatre
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amborghini’s successor to the Gallardo – the most successful car in the Fighting Bull’s history – was always going to split opinion among the hardcore enthusiasts. But since its debut in 2013, the Huracán has simply, and undeniably become better and better beneath the skin, and its appeal has got wider as a result. How so? Well at the beginning of last year, Sant Agata’s engineers revisited the car’s four wheel-drive chassis to make it even more engaging to drive generally. And at the end of last year, they unleashed the infinitely more playful rear wheel-drive version, called the LP 580-2, complete with softer front springs, bags of turn in bite and armfuls of oversteer available to anyone ambitious enough to reach for the button marked ‘traction control’. And now they’ve gone one further by producing this, the new Spyder version of the Huracán, which, says Lamborghini, combines the power and dynamic performance of the coupé with the extra added emotion of open-air motoring. Reading between the lines, this means the Spyder drives every bit as well as the coupé, whether its natty new all-electric hood is up or down. Which is some trick to pull off if Lamborghini’s engineers are to be believed. And in this case, they most certainly should be. In the metal, the Spyder looks absolutely drop-dead gorgeous. It is instantly identifiable as a member of the Huracan family yet different from almost every angle at the same time. Personally, I think it looks even better than the coupé, and the way the three-part soft hood glides gracefully into the rear bodywork in just 17sec also produces a major hit of street theatre, never more so than in a place like Miami Beach, where the car was launched to the press. It’s a lot more than just a pretty version of an already pretty car, however, is the
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the vitals Price £199,000 +VAT Engine 5.2-litre V10 Transmission 7-speed auto, four wheel drive Power/torque: 602bhp/560nm 0-62mph 3.4sec Top speed 201mph Economy 23.0mpg (combined) CO2 285g/km
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It does sound utterly fantastic, never more so than with the hood up and the little electric rear screen down Spyder. Lamborghini has gone to great lengths to ensure the car’s underpinnings remain razor sharp despite the presence of a great big hole where the roof once was. Stiffening has been added front and rear, there are hidden anti-rollover bars that deploy only if the car starts to roll, and there’s also a small rear screen that raises automatically on the move to eradicate swirl in the cabin with the hood down. The Spyder weighs an extra 122kg compared with the coupé, which makes it a touch heavier than its key rivals from Porsche, Ferrari and McLaren. But on the move it still feels extremely well sorted, with little or no compromises noted in terms of chassis stiffness or general sharpness, certainly not on the limited environs of the Miami test routes. And with the exact same 602bhp, 5.2-litre V10 engine from the coupe howling away behind the headrests, allied to the same much improved seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, the Spyder still feels heroically fast. Lamborghini claims it’ll do 0-62mph in 3.4sec and hit 201mph flat out, hood up or down, and although you do need to rev the V10 beyond 4000rpm to get at the meat of its potential, when you do, the resulting thump in the kidneys remains insatiable. You do it once in the Spyder – scream it out to 8000rpm in a low gear – and all you
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then want to do is the same thing, again and again. The thrust is both instant and massive over the last 3500rpm, and the way the dual clutch gearbox works so sweetly in cahoots with the big V10 – especially in Sport mode – makes for a unique driving experience. And best of all, you get to hear the V10 in all its glory that much better in the Spyder. And believe me, it does sound utterly fantastic, never more so than with the hood up and the little electric rear screen down. Run it up to 8000rpm in second gear in this specific configuration and it’s enough to make a grown man go all weak at the knees. Price? A snip at £199,000, which is actually not that horrendous beside this car’s more obvious rivals from Ferrari and McLaren, if not Porsche, none of which sound anything like as fantastic at full chat, even if they are each a tiny bit quicker where it counts. No, for pure, unadulterated showmanship the Huracán Spyder is in a league of one. It looks sensational, goes like stink and makes a better noise than any of its competition. For an open-top supercar, it’s hard to think how Lamborghini could make it any better. The Lamborghini Huracán Spyder is available through H. R. Owen, hrowen.co.uk/Lamborghini
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leader of the pack Following his Grand Prix win in Azerbaijan, Nico Rosberg is rebuilding a solid lead at the top of Formula One. The City Magazine talks to the German pace-setter about leading from the front WORDS: CHARLOTTE PHILLIPS
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inning runs in the Rosberg family. The son of 1982 Formula One world champion Keke Rosberg, Nico was born four days after his father won the 1985 Detroit Grand Prix. There was only one path Nico was ever likely to take. Starting out in karting at the age of six, a rise through the ranks was swift, with his first taste of the big time coming in 2006 with Williams. Having been at Mercedes since 2010, his battles with teammate and rival Lewis Hamilton are already the stuff of legend. This year, though, it seems Rosberg may finally be ready to claim the title that has eluded him for ten years. Formula One is notoriously glamorous. When it comes to WAGs, jet setting and hard cash, no other sport comes close, not even football. But while Rosberg may currently be top dog in an elite all-boys’ club, someone who gets paid a telephone number salary to fulfil his boyhood dream in the most glitzy locations on the planet, the reality of how the German spends his downtime is somewhat different – even if he does share his time between living in
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this image 2016 Spanish Grand Prix, © Daimler AG left 2016 Winter Testing, Test 1, Barcelona © Daimler AG below 2016 Spanish Grand Prix © Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
“I’d like to do some adventure travelling: the Galapagos Islands, the Caribbean...”
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Monaco or a holiday home in Ibiza. “I get up early and take my dog Bailey out, then go to the office for an hour or two where I have some communication with the engineers and do some personal work,” the 30-year-old says. “After that, I go back home, have lunch with my dog and my wife Vivian at the beach.” Last year, Rosberg became father to daughter Alaïa, a further incentive to luxuriate in the good life at home. “Obviously that was a very special thing. It makes me very happy and means I enjoy my time at home even more.” Rosberg is, by nature, a homebody: his favourite race destination is Monaco. “It means I am sleeping in my own environment in my apartment and nothing beats that,” he says. When he does find himself at home in the Mediterranean microstate, Rosberg’s days are hardly dedicated to the Champagne lifestyle. “I like to play sports and get involved in any sort of competitive activity,” he says. “And I love reading, particularly biographies. Right now I am reading a book about the company Pixar; it is such a successful business and has really revolutionised
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| interview motoring ||
this image 2016 Spanish Grand Prix, © Daimler AG below 2016 European Grand Prix, Sunday © Daimler AG; 2016 European Grand Prix, Sunday © Daimler AG
TRAVEL LIKE ROSBERG
from top Sawyer Brief, £750, Dover backpack, £345, Large trip packing case, from £950, TUMI, uk.tumi.com
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its field – it’s incredibly interesting.” Of course, trawling the race circuit to far-flung destinations for months on end, Rosberg’s job means that spending time in one place for too long isn’t always an option. “We are travelling all the time. It’s a relentless timetable,” he says. It’s apt, then, that Rosberg should be appointed as a ‘Global Citizen’ for luxury luggage brand TUMI. You can tell that Rosberg has become used to being on the move, going so far as to develop a theoretical packing style. Unfortunately, the reality of successful packing often eludes him: “It’s all about organisation and preparing everything in advance. What I want to do – which I never manage to achieve – is to make a proper list at home, so that every time I travel I just need to look at the list and know what I need to pack. In reality, it’s always last minute. I’m always two minutes too late.” Rosberg says that he feels most at home in his native Germany or his adopted Monaco. As for his favourite places to travel? “The best places have got to be London and New York. There’s just so much to see and so many cool things to do in those places – it’s wonderful. “I love having the opportunity to communicate with different people and experience new cultures,” he continues. “It really opens your eyes and is good for your personal development. That is what it means to be a TUMI Global Citizen to me.” He may spend most of his life in the fast lane, but Rosberg clearly understands the importance of slowing down. “Sometimes it can be frustrating being away so much
of the time. Obviously I miss my wife, my dog and my family. I also miss the general things about being home; things like my own bed, my couch and all those other home comforts. However, it’s all part of being able to do my dream job – so I wouldn’t change it.” That dream occupation may keep him away from his family for longer than he’d like, but, for Rosberg, home will always be where the heart is. At the end of the season, he’ll be hoping to return to his family with a certain trophy for company. With momentum firmly in his favour, you wouldn’t bet against him doing so.
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M ANUFACTUR E DE H AU TE H OR LOGER IE
TONDA METROGR APHE
Steel case Chronograph automatic movement Date in an aperture Integrated titanium / steel bracelet Made in Switzerland www.parmigiani.ch
ATELIER PARMIGIANI 97 MOUNT STREET, MAYFAIR, LONDON W1K 2TD, TEL. 020 7495 5172 LONDON SELFRIDGES, THE WONDER ROOM | ARIJE WATCHES OF SWITZERLAND | FROST OF LONDON | BEAU GEMS BIRMINGHAM RUDELLS | HARROGATE & YORK ODGEN | LEICESTER LUMBERS SCOTLAND AND NEWCASTLE ROX DIAMONDS AND THRILLS | TUNBRIDGE WELLS G COLLINS AND SON
track talk
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national pits Stra
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ilverstone. It’s a name at the very heart of British motorsport, and once again this July the teams and drivers of Formula 1 will return to its hallowed grounds to compete on the 5.9 km circuit. It’s a special year for British motorsport. This year marks the 40th anniversary of James Hunt’s legendary win at Silverstone – and there’ll be three British drivers keen to follow in his footsteps on 10 July. Jenson Button, Jolyon Palmer and, of course, Lewis Hamilton will all be itching to get their hands on the first place trophy and spray champagne over the roaring home crowd. But winning at Silverstone isn’t a matter of simply nailing qualifying and cruising to victory. This is one of the most challenging circuits on the F1 calendar – and certainly among the most iconic racing tracks in the world. The corner combination of Maggots, Becketts and Chapel, for example, is one of the fastest and most technical set of turns the F1 drivers will face. Tight turns at Luffield, The Loop and Vale require precision and skill, while fast corners like Abbey, Stowe and Copse rank among the favourites of drivers everywhere. “It’s one of the most exciting corners in the world,” said Button of Copse, in The Guardian. “You have a completely blind apex and yet you’re turning in there at speeds hitting 180mph plus. You go through in top gear and you’ve got to line yourself up for the corner through memory more than anything else.” Winning at Silverstone is a dream for British drivers – and pole position is something Hamilton will be hoping to repeat this year, particularly after the more-than-rocky start to his double championshipdefending season. “I have to admit, as I came round that last lap I was welling up seeing all those people on their feet,” he said, after last year’s British Grand Prix. But it’s more than just the magic of being on home turf that makes Silverstone a Mecca for British motorsport fans, young and old. The track layout may have changed over the years, but this circuit always has something special up its sleeve. As Bernie Ecclestone put it: “People want to build new circuits around the world and they say: ‘We’ll come to Silverstone and have a look how it’s done.’” Read on for our breakdown of the Silverstone circuit and the corners to watch out for during the 2016 British Grand Prix.
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Words: Jennifer Mason
copse
Copse is the second fastest corner on track, behind Maggots, which is taken flat out. Drivers usually shift down into 6th gear after the National Pits Straight and take this right-hander at around 165mph.
we
This month, the F1 world will focus on Silverstone for the British Grand Prix. We take a look at the iconic circuit in more detail
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luffield Brooklands and Luffield are both second-gear corners, with the Luffield hairpin bend requiring precision to bring the drivers out in good track position for the fast right-hander of Woodcote, opening onto the National Pits Straight.
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This tight left-hander has only been part of the F1 circuit since 2010. It’s the slowest corner on the track, and vitally important to get right for a good exit into the Wellington Straight.
The Maggots-BeckettsChapel combination is widely regarded as one of the most technical set of turns of any F1 track. And, it’s fast. Cars will reach in excess of 186mph (and several Gs) into the corners before powering on the gas into the Hangar Straight.
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Stowe This is a fast corner, usually taken in fifth gear at a minimum speed of 125mph
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farm curve
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club Club is the last challenge facing drivers before the final push to the finish line. Lewis Hamilton describes Club as “a long righthander which just gets longer and longer”. Then it’s flat up the straight to Abbey ( for the chequered flag).
more information This year’s Formula 1 British Grand Prix takes place at Silverstone between 8-10 July. We’ll have our eyes glued to the screens cheering on British drivers Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Jolyon Palmer. silverstone.co.uk
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vale
start/ finish line
Vale is approached at high speed, usually around 170mph. Under hard breaking for the left-right combination. This is a danger zone for locking up. Any mistakes here disadvantage the driver’s line into Club and eventually onto the startfinish straight.
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Life In The
Fast Lane
Jeremy Taylor goes head-to-head with Ron Dennis, the long-serving boss of McLaren
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on Dennis hasn’t always seen eyeto-eye with the elite of Formula One. The McLaren supremo is rarely stuck for words, though, and right now I’m feeling the full force of his stare just inches from my face. Fortunately, I’ve done nothing worse than sit in his favourite chair. Dennis likes to sit facing away from the window at his Woking office, so sunlight doesn’t irritate a long-standing eye injury. “I fell asleep at the wheel of an E-Type Jaguar back in the early 1970s and was thrown through the windscreen. The surgeons did a remarkable job saving my sight but if you look closely, you can
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see the damage.” Dennis pulls down his lower eyelid so I can get a better look. “I was driving to get parts for Graham Hill’s car. I punctured a lung and had severe facial injuries. It left me hospitalised for weeks and gave me time to think.” He used his incarceration wisely, realising that his days as a mechanic were probably over and management now beckoned. After forming several racing teams of his own, Dennis’s company Project Four merged with McLaren’s Formula One operation in the autumn of 1980. It was an inspired move that ultimately created one of the most
“I fell asleep at the wheel of an E-Type Jaguar back in the early 1970s and was thrown through the windscreen” successful teams in the sport. McLaren won 17 world championships – 10 drivers’ world championships and seven constructors’ world championships – over the next 30 years. They included world titles for legendary racing drivers such as Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, Mika Häkkinen and a young Lewis Hamilton.
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Now 69, and contemplating retirement, Dennis can look back on a career that has seen him rise from studying motor vehicle engineering at Guildford Technical College to become one of the most recognised men in motorsport. Chairman of McLaren Technology Group, including McLaren Applied Technologies, which takes insights from F1 into health, transport, energy and finance, and McLaren Automotive, he has a string of business interests that go far and beyond F1. Dennis is also one of the Prime Minister’s official Business Ambassadors, with a net worth estimated to be in excess of £300 million. With such an impressive CV, how does Dennis cope with his team’s recent lack of form on the racetrack? “The overarching fear in my life is the pain of failure. Running an uncompetitive F1 team really gets to me. It’s more than a thorn in my side or a stone in my shoe – nothing touches the pain I’ve been feeling in recent years. “I’m a fiercely competitive person - I don’t like losing. I surround myself with people who don’t like losing. However, there is no magic elixir that suddenly makes a team competitive. It will take time but I think we are close to winning again.” Dennis says he has his own views on why Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button suffered so badly on the track but says his team’s wealth of experience will be a deciding factor. “Last season was bad but this year we are getting better. I don’t know how long it will take to start winning races but I can guarantee we will.” Until then, any free time Dennis can squeeze out of his hectic working day involves planning for when he steps down at McLaren. He calls it his ‘mission’ – a determination to leave the company he built from the ground up in safe hands for shareholders. “At the moment I’m actively working on a succession strategy. It’s hard to find top people but I’d like to be able to choose somebody sooner rather than later. There’s no timescale but it’s
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From Top Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso
definitely playing on my mind. “I consider myself an entrepreneur and there’s still a lot I want to do. My mind never stops. Even when I create capacity in my life, within a few months I have created something to fill it.” Dennis’s punishing schedule starts at 6am two days a week, with a physiotherapy workout at his home on the Wentworth Estate, in Surrey. He damaged his back in a jet-ski accident several years ago and still needs manipulation. “I drive myself to the office but otherwise I use a chauffeur because I like to work in the car. If the weather’s good I drive a McLaren road car to the office – otherwise it’s a Mercedes. “I used to own 60 cars but now I’m down to about ten. Every vehicle has some relevance to my life. Most are McLarens – a GT40, P1 and 675LT – but I also have a lovely little Austin Healey Sprite. I don’t own a Jaguar E-Type.” The McLaren Technology Centre is headquarters for the group and was designed by the architect Sir Norman Foster. The futuristic building could double as a set for the next James Bond movie and was even shortlisted for the Stirling Prize. Dennis’s office, where we are sitting now, has uninterrupted views across a vast duck lake and on towards the Surrey countryside. “It’s not just the bosses who have a fabulous view – I wanted everybody to feel uplifted and inspired. “I was very much involved with the design team and feel incredibly proud of what has been achieved. I had a vision of what I wanted to create and we did it.” It’s difficult to imagine McLaren without Dennis at the helm. After more than 35 years in charge, how does he want to be remembered? Dennis pauses for a moment, scratches his chin and then fixes me with his steely eyes once again. “Life is about values and principles – who you really are. Life isn’t about how people perceive you, or what’s printed in the newspaper. There’s nowhere to hide when you stand in front of a mirror and I feel pretty comfortable with what I see.”
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t r a t S
s e n i g n E r u Yo
The 2016 Caterham Academy kicked off at Rockingham last month, with The City Magazine acting as headline sponsor. No pressure there then... Words: Richard Brown
Curborough: Sprint Session
“Nervous?” asked Clive, a fellow-Academy competitor. 7am at a chilly Curborough sprint track and I was barely out of the car. The benefit of going into an event blind, for which everyone else had spent several weekends tuning, tweaking and testing, was a delightful unawareness of what was to come. “No,” I said, nonchalantly, “not really.” How could I be? It was the second and last sprint session of the season. The first had been at Aintree, where Jen, the colleague with whom I’ll be sharing racing responsibilities over the next four months, had finished a respectable 17th out of 27. Now it was my turn. A practice lap would be followed by two timed circuits, each separated by a two-hour break. If you’ve never attached a Hans device
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to a helmet, wrestled with the workings of a six-point safety harness, or had to work out what to put on first, a helmet, wrist straps or gloves – try not to solve all of these questions in the five minutes before you’re expected on the start line. It was during the ensuing panic attack that I started to question the mentality with which I’d been approaching this whole
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racing lark. You see, instead of practising prior to Curborough – attending track days, taking courses, getting used to the limits of the motor – the lady and I had been using the Caterham to explore pretty villages in Kent – an exercise that yielded few lessons in motor racing. It would be fine. Someone would surely be more useless than me. They weren’t. During the practice lap I got lost. During the following lap I over-egged it and span at the first corner. A bag of nerves, my final lap was slower than a circuit you used to see on Supermarket Sweep. The day had not been the confidenceboosting springboard for which I’d hoped.
Rockingham: Race 1
I arrived at Rockingham three weeks later, my heart in my mouth, my stomach playing its own game of Kerplunk. Judging by the noises emanating from the pit lane toilets, I wasn’t the only one. A fellow racer later joked that he should be sponsored by Imodium. Jen and I had spent the previous day wrapping our Caterham in vinyl. While we’re not aiming for podium finishes this season, we reason we can at least look half-decent on the starting grid. Lacking a heat gun, any sort of experience (we’d watched some Asian lads turn a BMW from black to gold on YouTube) and the necessary pain threshold required to spend five hours bent over a bonnet, things didn’t quite go to plan. As Jen pointed out, it was like trying to imitate someone else’s Halloween costume from Instagram, looking in the mirror and discovering you’ve completely ballsed it up. Our car will now be wearing its patchwork horror outfit for the rest of the season. While we’d been getting Frankenstein on the motor, everyone else had been using their Friday to familiarise themselves with the Rockingham racetrack (one of the fastest in Europe, according to Wikipedia). Not only had I never seen the track prior to qualifying, but the extent of my racing experience amounted to that one leisurely lap around Curborough. At least there was less of a chance of getting lost; with all cars qualifying during the same 15-minute session, all I had to do was follow the fella in front, which worked out fine, until he sped off. Someone had to qualify last, and that someone was me. It was fine, that’s where I was meant to finish. Plus from the back of the grid I wouldn’t be rear-ended when I undoubtedly fluffed the start of the race. Except that didn’t happen. Instead, somehow, I nailed it. Instead, somehow, by the first corner I had gained three places.
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Nerves gave way to adrenaline. The Kerplunk stopped. Competiveness even had the cheek to creep in The feeling of navigating that first hairpin, bumper-to-bumper, wheel-to-wheel, with five, six, seven other cars is something I’ll never forget. Nerves gave way to adrenaline. The Kerplunk stopped. Competiveness even had the cheek to creep in. For the next 15 minutes I was part of a pack, hustling for position, flying by the seat of my pants. I gained one more place, lost another two, almost caught Clive, nearly span off. I finally finished third from last. If it feels that good to finish 23rd, Christ knows what sort of buzz Pete got from winning. The size of his pupils served as some indication. (Though Pete’s always seem to look like that). What a race. What a day. What a buzz. From now on, no more excuses. The rest of the Academy beware, The City Magazine is coming for you. The next Caterham Academy race takes place at Snetterton on 16 July. Read about Jen’s experience in the August issue of The City Magazine.
The City Magazine Caterham Academy The Caterham Academy was devised as an introduction to motorsport. Exclusively for drivers who have had no previous race experience, the Academy is an all-inclusive package containing every element required to start and compete in motorsport. Team support is not allowed in this series, so technical support is provided as part of the Academy package at every event by Caterham. In this way, those with little or no mechanical experience are not at any disadvantage and you can’t buy your way to the front of the grid. The Caterham Academy is now in its 20th year. All years have sold out. Entry to the 2017 series starts from £23,995. caterhamcars.com/motorsport/academy
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HEALTH & FITNESS
the tips and tricks to keep you fighting fit
Work out your workout Short on time, but yearning for an effective workout? Tom Exton, co-founder of LDN Muscle, and full-time City worker, shows you how to pack in a good session – no excuses
Product power
No time for the gym? Try these products in the office
You’ll find this short, intense session perfect for squeezing into your crammed lunch break, or after work before you hit the City for a night out
wARM-UP: Two-minute row, 20 standard bicep dumbbell curls, 20 hammer dumbbell curls (both very light)
30 Min Set: EXERCISE 1: 6 x Heavy reps on the preacher bench/ Z bar Standard grip. Get someone to spot you if possible, you want to hit failure.
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EXERCISE 2: 12 x Standing curls with twist Start at the bottom of the rep in ‘hammer curl’ position, end with standard curl position at the top of the rep (palms towards you) – both arms at same time. Keep your elbows tucked in – NO SWINGING. Big pinch at the top of every rep.
EXERCISE 3: 25 x Plate curls Hold a plate either side, at 9 and 3 o’clock position, and curl (see image left). Nice big pinch at the top. Elbows stuck to your side, again, NO SWINGING. I tend to do this with a 20KG plate, this last set should be until failure. 20 -25 reps is what you’re going for. If you can do more, up the weight until your technique disappears. Remember also to keep breathing – feed those muscles. Repeat these one after the other in quick succession for five sets (90-120 seconds between each set), and voilà – heart-racing, sweat on and DOMS [delayed onset muscle soreness] for days. And you’re out of the gym pronto. Most importantly though, growth has been stimulated. For more health & fitness advice, or to download one of the LDNM guides, visit ldnmuscle.com
Resistance bands Each band has its own resistance level, and all bands can be stacked together to create up to 105lb of resistance. An efficient way to perform a workout in the office or at home. Xtreme 3 stackable resistance band set, £24, ProSource, uk.bodybuilding.com
Weights vest Increases resistance during a workout and helps build core strength, speed and endurance. The custom weights contour to your torso to stay in position for a secure fit and maximum mobility. Human X weighted vest, £80.15, Harbinger, uk.bodybuilding.com
Exercise ball
Antiburst gym ball, £14.99, Bodymax, powerhousefitness.co.uk
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Resistance isn’t futile Weights = weight loss Let’s face it: we all want to look good in summer. When the sun finally rears its head for the few days that Britain gets to enjoy of it, us Brits really make the most of it. Resistance training (the new term for weights) is a great way to get fit, as the more lean muscle you create, the better your metabolism. However, just going to the gym won’t cut it, with poor training and muscle targeting making us susceptible to muscle tears and chronic joint pain. Make sure that you’re in good shape with these mythbusting tips from Uzo Ehiogu, head of Physiotherapy at HCA at The Shard.
Warm-ups fuel your workout Many see a warm-up as a waste of time and believe that going straight into training will maximise their workout time. However, warming-up has several physiological benefits, which can increase performance and reduce the risk of injury. For example, it allows time for adequate blood flow to reach
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your working muscles, meaning more nutrients and oxygen will reach them to fuel your workout. It also enables muscle temperatures to rise gradually, which reduces the risk of injury and increases the effectiveness of your workout. Failure to warm up can lead to muscle strains and pulls.
Technique trumps kilos As you get into a resistance weight training plan, it is tempting to focus on the increasing amount of weight you are lifting. However, technique should always come first. It is dangerous to add weights to a movement or exercise that cannot be performed with impeccable technique and adding weight will only make your technique worse. This is a common mistake and is often the cause of traumatic injuries involving the chest area, lower back, shoulder, hip and
Myth-busting tips from HCA Healthcare UK knee. It is better to work on your flexibility, mobility and movement pattern with a physiotherapist or expert trainer before moving onto heavy weights.
Avoid over-exercising Don’t get trapped into thinking that the more sessions you do the better – rest and recovery is an essential part of the training process. With weight training, it’s better to think of quality than quantity. Inadequate recovery affects performance and can cause fatigue. It is a good idea to keep a training diary to record details of all your sessions, the amount of sleep you are getting and which days you are taking as rest days. This will allow systematic planning of recovery days and recovery weeks to improve your performance. hcatheshard.com
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Pedal perfection The world’s most prestigious lifestyle show for cyclists, LikeBike, took place in Monte Carlo last month. Amid the parties and the races, the real stars of the show were the bicycles. Here are some of the most innovative and beautiful on offer words: david taylor
bestianera montecarlo edition
£13,389
The world’s first hybrid mechanical/electrical bike to weigh under ten kilograms, it can reach 30km/h in just three pedal strokes, thanks to the lithium batteries in the rear wheel. The pedal assist system can be controlled via Bluetooth thanks to an app, meaning that it kicks in exactly when you need it to. tred.me
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veloboo gold
£30,000
jivr
The bamboo frame and 24-carat gold plating make this bike from eccentric Hungarian brand Veloboo one of the most unique cycles in the world – limited to just 30 examples. veloboodesign.com
£2,000
lacroix
This foldable electric bike keeps all mechanics inside the frame for hassle-free cycling. Fold the bike in four movements into a shape that can be wheeled into the office. Stylish and efficient. jivrbike.com
trefecta
£17,900
When the Dutch, Germans and Swiss are all involved in creating an e-bike, it stands to reason that it’s going to be something special. Aerospace and automotive experience in a bike – what’s not to like? trefectamobility.com
£13,260
The patented open lattice design on this racer’s frame improves the strength of the carbon fibre by concentrating material at the right places and taking away the excess. It looks great, too. snowemotion.com
ecce
£6,600
Ecce is what happens when cycling becomes about more than just the pedalling. Made out of wood, the collection uses the intersection of art and technology to add to the riding pleasure. ecce-cycles.com
likebikemc.com
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GIVE AND TAKE 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 who should appear on your agenda
This month: GLENN BROWN
It’s an assertion of Brown’s belief that artists cannot be wholly original, in part because all artists borrow from the past
Misogyny by Glenn Brown
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hat’s so interesting? As the social media storm that accompanied the release of Beyoncé’s recent visual album Lemonade highlighted, the topic of appropriation has the power to grab the attention of a global audience. But can taking the ideas that define another person or group and using them for your own ends ever be acceptable? It’s a question that has been raised by artists for many years as they look to the artistic canon and find their place within it, and it’s a subject that has been considered
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at length by the British artist Glenn Brown in a body of work that celebrates appropriation, almost employing it as a medium alongside sculpture, painting and drawing. Brown’s technique is frequently and explicitly referential. Taking reproductions of work by artists including Vincent Van Gogh, Frank Auerbach and Georg Baselitz, he paints, shapes and renames, creating something completely new that connects through its source material, to the artists and artworks that inspired it. It’s an assertion
The Hokey Cokey by Glenn Brown
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of Brown’s belief that artists cannot the background for the shoulders of the be wholly original, in part because all Hokey Cokey bust. artists borrow from the past. It’s also The depth and respect with a rejection of the idea of the artist as a which Brown treats the artworks conduit to an untainted, primal form of he appropriates have found him in communication, springing fresh from the great favour in the art world – the artist, uninfluenced by any other Goldsmiths College graduate art. Brown’s focus on all artists has been included in as fundamentally connected numerous group and solo to one another through museum exhibitions at their shared effort in prestigious galleries the creation of ways of and museums Glenn Brown thinking about the world, worldwide including Suffer Well at the Fondation places his celebration Tate Liverpool and the Vincent Van Gogh, Arles, is on until 11 September 2016. of appropriation in a Venice Biennale. While gagosian.com, new context. By drawing appropriation elicits glenn-brown.co.uk a clear line between his complex reactions, work and those who have the new directions and gone before him, Brown seems concepts raised in his work to encourage us to see our own now frequently result in his travails in a similar continuum, and work hanging alongside the very works ourselves similarly engaged in a joint that triggered their creation. It’s a mark endeavour with the rest of society. of the influence of both the artist and A new show of the artist’s work at the his ideas, and it might just be that the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh in Arles Brown is the exception who proves examines how Brown draws upon the the rule that ‘good artists copy, great themes and techniques used by Vincent artists steal’. Van Gogh. Within the 30 pieces on show, four paintings directly recall Van Gogh’s paintings, including Suffer Well (2007), which refers to Van Gogh’s Skull of a Skeleton with Burning Cigarette (1885). The titular skull of the original has been seen as if from another angle and the burning cigarette removed, leaving a hole in the skeleton’s jawbone. Brown has also created three new sculptures which take their hue from the colour palette of one of Vincent’s paintings, a portrait of the young Armand Roulin (1888), which is housed at the Folkwang Museum in Essen. The sculpture Hokey Cokey (2016) takes up the colours of this portrait but Brown uses the yellow of the jacket to paint what you could perceive as hair, and the turquoise of
find the work
A sketch by Glenn Brown
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The depth and respect with which Brown treats the artworks he appropriates have found him in great favour in the art world
Suffer Well by Glenn Brown
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gj nesting tables Danish furniture designer Grete Jalk, and her 1963 work were monumental in the design of this and other Lange Production pieces. Manufactured in Denmark by the leaders in moulded plywood products, this nest of tables has been finished to the highest standards. £969, skandium.com
n w o s ’ e r u nat s for terial a m l ra natu s and d o o arm w r ent w m e terio l p com ome in s h e e il h t t o ed tex ach t print appro y h t r an ea
DJURO ARMCHAIR Expertly crafted from beautiful teak wood, the Djuro armchair by Skargaarden features an effortless silhouette and extensive use of unadorned wood, both typical features of Scandinavian design. It makes for the perfect addition to your terrace this summer. £549, luxdeco.com
Disc Lantern
Winslow SOFA Sink into the Winslow sofa and appreciate the low back and deep seat that achieves ultimate comfort. Designed by the renowned Sir Terence Conran in 2002, the Winslow sofa’s timeless aesthetic is suited to both contemporary and classic interiors. Featuring a strong solid wood frame with sprung seat platforms, the Winslow has been handcrafted right here in the UK. £3,000, conranshop.co.uk
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Achieve a little magic with mood lighting, thanks to LSA’s glass pillar candle lantern. Featuring a brass and black beech wood inner, the lantern is available in a choice of sizes. Make it light and bright with a selection, or keep it dark and dramatic with just the one. £50, houseology.com
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FINISHING TOUCHES
Zebra Print Cow Skin Cushion Sometimes all a tired interior needs is a couple of finishing touches. Made from the finest French cow skin, this striking cushion in a beautiful black and white zebra print will surely become the focal point in any place it’s positioned. £70, amara.com Black Palms Collection by Ralph Lauren Home Spring 2016
Black Palms Bedding Collection by Ralph Lauren Home From £49 to £359 (Pillowcase, Duvet Cover)
BLACK PALM This season, Ralph Lauren Home has opted for a minimalist palette of deep earthy tones, paired with internationally inspired geometric patterns. Basket-woven and braided water hyacinth feature big throughout the collection, putting a spotlight on the understated beauty of raw materials. ralphlaurenhome.com
black palms screen
Los Ojos Blanket This striking throw is inspired by the art of Native American pueblo dwellers of the American Southwest. It’s perfect for keeping cosy on those cooler London evenings spent out on the terrace. £300, amara.com
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Whether you’re looking to create divisions in a room, or simply wish to incorporate a raw material aesthetic, the Black Palm Screen will fit the bill. Crafted from braided water hyacinth and finished in Sonora Canyon Rush, the Black Palm Screen measures 206 x 5 x 163 cm. £5,400, ralphlaurenhome.com Vases, bowls and pots crafted from glass, shagreen and ceramic, make for lovely, earthy accompaniments in the home. Fill Kelly Hoppen’s Medicine Bottle Vase with fine sprigs, or opt for a slightly more elaborate f loral arrangement in Katharine Pooley ’s Mink shagreen vase. From top: £15, kellyhop pen .com; £345£775, £1,250, both available from katharinepooley.com
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A dark doorway in the heart of Chelsea holds the key to the perfect venue for any event...
Whether you are planning to host a launch party, corporate event, birthday party, fashion show or you just want an excuse to gather colleagues, friends or family in a room, our events team are here to guide you through every step of the process.
The Dom Pérignon Room is available to hire as a stand-alone ‘club-within-aclub’ comprising a private bar, booth seating & its own DJ for up to 65 guests.
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With more and more celebrities investing in vineyards worldwide, James Lawrence charts the rise of A-list wine brands
What’s in a name
With more and more celebrities investing in vineyards worldwide, James Lawrence charts the rise of A-list wine brands
top Š Christopher D Thompson far left Image courtesy of Barrymore by Carmel Road
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rom Jude Law to Ben Stiller, the drinks industry has long attracted the attention of A-list stars keen to express support for their favourite tipple – in return for a hefty fee and a dose of well-placed exposure, of course. Every year, actors, sports personalities and other A-list celebs engage in corporate sponsorship to lend their face to global drinks brands – Cîroc Vodka, for example, recently unveiled a limited-edition ‘Blue Steel’ product to mark the launch of the film Zoolander 2. Proof perhaps, that while sex can sell almost any brand, nothing excites corporate executives like the allure of celebrity endorsement. However, over the past decade we have witnessed a fundamental shift in how celebrities engage with drink brands, particularly in the wine industry. While A-listers still lend their names to a wide variety of products, an increasing number of celebrities are investing directly into winemaking, eager to oversee all aspects of production from blending to marketing. Over the last few years, a plethora of new celebrities have purchased wine estates and vineyards, with wine fast becoming the celebrity pet project of choice. The godfather of this burgeoning movement is – very appropriately – Francis Ford Coppola, who brought the Inglenook estate in Napa Valley, California, in 1975. Today, Inglenook’s wines are considered among California’s finest. Eighteen years later, actor Sam Neill invested in a vineyard in New Zealand, with the aim of producing a world-class Pinot Noir. Both critics and consumers agree that he has succeeded – his brand, Two Paddocks, is now held in high esteem worldwide. In recent years, Coppola and Neill have been joined by a growing firmament of
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Hollywood A-Listers with wine aspirations, including Drew Barrymore, Jay Z and most famously, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Jay Z made headlines when he purchased the iconic brand Armand de Brignac from Champagne house Cattier. Previously heavily associated with the kitsch, metallic bottles of Armand de Brignac – Jay Z used them in several rap videos – he decided to go that extra mile and take full control of a brand he helped to make famous in 2014. The amount Jay Z paid for the brand was a closely guarded secret, however, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s purchase of the Coteaux Varois estate in Provence in 2008 was widely reported as costing the celebrity duo a ‘mere’ US$55m (£35m). Keen on producing their own Provençal rosé, they teamed up with the renowned winemaker Marc Perrin, owner of Château de Beaucastel in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, for help with the production of their Miraval rosé. Yet, opting to keep their involvement in the branding relatively discreet, the only evidence of their involvement in the wine is a simple “Mis en bouteille par Jolie-Pitt & Perrin” etched in white on the back of the bottle.
The amount Jay Z paid for the brand was a closely guarded secret Of course, the media widely reported their involvement in the brand, which has been phenomenally successful and is arguably partly responsible for the global resurgence in rosé sales. On release, the Château Miraval Rosé, priced at £18.95 a bottle, sold more than 6,000 bottles in the UK alone, all within five hours of the wine being advertised. But would the brand have sold in record time without the involvement of Hollywood’s favourite couple? It’s dubious. Sports personalities have also been displaying a keen interest in wine production in recent years, although a smaller number have made the lasting commitment of investing in a vineyard. Instead, fruitful collaborations with wine producers to make limited-edition brands have proved immensely popular; in 2010, golfing legend Jack Nicklaus announced a partnership with Terlato wines in the US, to create a range of Napa Valley wines. He joins an increasingly populous club of sportsmen who have branched out into wine, including fellow golfers Sir Nick Faldo and Ernie Els – whose wine Ernie Els Signature is part of the Terlato brand portfolio. In addition, cricketers Sir Ian Botham and Bob Willis are avowed wine lovers, they make an Australian Cabernet Sauvignon, in conjunction with legendary
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Aussie winemaker Geoff Merrill. Then there’s Sir Alex Ferguson, one of the world’s most prolific wine collectors and connoisseurs. Indeed, the former Manchester United manager told Decanter magazine that he once said to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich that his London club’s wines were “paint-stripper.” Amassing an impressive collection of rare vintages over the decades, Ferguson auctioned most of his collection in 2014, however, he is said to be looking to invest in a French vineyard, so watch this space – his own range of Bordeaux wines could be hitting the UK market sooner than we think. While the success stories outweigh the failures, it’s equally true that celebrity endorsement isn’t always enough to make a brand famous. Just ask the diminutive rapper Lil Jon, whose inaugural Californian wine range flopped, badly. Leading Italian designer Roberto Cavalli also took a misstep in 2008, when he released his Cavalli Collection Tuscan wines, which were both a critical and financial disaster. In fact, the projects that have really worked are those that keep some measure of distance between celebrity owner and the brand’s marketing/labelling, suggesting that perhaps the “Sir Alex Ferguson Merlot” isn’t such a stellar idea after all.
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CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT Armand de Brignac vineyards; Barrymore Rosé of Pinot Noir; Botham Merril Wiliis Chardonay; Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie purchased Coteaux Varois estate in 2008; Francis Coppola purchase Inglenook estate in 1975; Jay Z purchased and made Armand de Brignac famous in 2014 (photo: Featureflash Photo Agency)
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BEYOND WILDEST DREAMS
Journeys of giraffe, a parade of elephants, and mobs of mongoose, leave Nick Savage zealous for Zimbabwe
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| travel - africa special |
T
he sky takes on a deep lavender hue as the sun nears the horizon, and the long grasses of the saltpan become a darker colour of caramel in the crepuscular light. One hundred yards to the right of the Toyota Highlux, two female lions and a cub repose near a termite mound. The latter entertains itself by climbing atop the steep hillock and bounding from its peak. Nearby, a one-ton cow elephant ambles along heedlessly, ripping grass from the earth with its trunk, totally oblivious of the big cats. “Keep going that way for a fight,” guide Tendai Mdluli, a born and bred Zimbabwean, warns the elephant, and me. A strong breeze sluices towards them through the bush and the thatched grass hisses and susurrates. This is a disadvantage for the lions, which rely on acute hearing to stalk prey. However, as the light begins to wane they fulfil their potential as ace predators. Tendai tells me that during the peak of the day the strong sunlight hinders their vision, which is nine times keener than a human’s, but in the half light the tables begin to turn. As the grapefruit and caramel colours grow richer, the lions stir from the termite mound, and the observer can easily discern the robust interplay of life and death in the Hwange bush – a roulette wheel of luck and evolutionary advantage. I wouldn’t have understood this or perhaps even noticed the cats without Tendai. He has worked for Wilderness Safaris for 20 of its 31 years of operation, and has come to understand the intricacies of the landscape in the same way that a novelist knows her characters. Hwange is different from other parks in that it pumps boreholes to create stable, reliable waterholes, and, as a result, boasts some of the largest populations of elephants in the world, with upwards of 45,000 in the area – an area roughly the size of Belgium. The first man-made waterhole was created in 1939, when water diviners located immense subterranean aquifers utilising technology as crude as a glass
Coca-Cola bottle. It’s come quite a way from there, a detail evident in the camp where I’m staying: Linkwasha. Completed in 2015, it’s one of the newest additions to the region, situated in the middle of a broad savannah and within eyeshot of a waterhole. Rather than the ostentatious design that was formerly de rigueur at safari camps, Wilderness has opted for clean lines and a chic, minimalist design that features indigenous artefacts and thatched roofs. During the evenings, after filling our bellies in the lounge, we retire to an openair boma, warming ourselves around the incandescence of a fire, easily trumped by the brilliant firmament above. Wilderness Safaris has won countless plaudits for their environmentally friendly, low-impact presence, and much of the power and hot water is derived from solar energy. In the morning I take an outdoor shower in the rear of my luxury tent which offers vistas over the sprawling plain, where a solitary giraffe plucks moist leaves from the top of an ebony tree and an ostrich struts along the near distance. After waking to a baboon walking across the roof of my tent, we stalk lions on a game drive. They were active the night before, their lowing audible through the tents. We track them the old-fashioned way, following the roads and paths that lead to the waterhole, studying paw prints left in the sandveld. In the end, we turn up short, but there is an abundance of alternative wildlife to hold our attention – journeys of giraffe, mobs of banded mongoose, and masquerades of sable antelope. We return for lunch and learn a bit more from the Oxford Lion Team. Apparently there are 2,500 lions in Hwange alone and a pride of 50 in the area around Linkwasha camp – who formerly presided under the rule of the late and lamented Cecil the Lion. In the evening we embark upon another game drive, passing hundreds of elephants in the acacia scrub, teak forest and salt pans. With so many pachyderms in Hwange alone, it’s one of the most profuse
Image courtesy of Ruckomechi Camp
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Image courtesy of Ruckomechi Camp; Circle top to bottom: Lioness in Hwange National Park, Linkwasha Camp, Wildlife at Ruckomechi Camp
The male impala will fend off any competitors and spend a week without eating
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populations in the world, and according to Tendai there is some concern that it may have reached the limit of its capacity. As the sun sets for the second time we pull up to a hide – a vantage point near a watering hole to watch the wildlife. On the platform we are brought gin and tonics, olives and razor-thin slices of potato deep-fried with rosemary and topped with julienned wisps of cucumber. The alcohol begins to take effect on my bladder and I find privacy on the other side of the vehicle to relieve myself, or so I hope. In fact, I experience a bit of stage fright as a fortystrong parade of elephants tramp within 20ft of my loo. By the time we have finished with our sundowners, night has fallen. Our guide Sam drives with fog lights and an infrared torch to spot animals in the darkness without damaging their eyesight. We pass impala, in rut during late May. The male impala will fend off any competitors and spend a week without eating, running after females, marshalling the herd like a sheepdog. It brings new meaning to the phrase ‘chasing tail’. As we are about to pack it in and head back to the camp, we pass a dazzle of zebra, spooked by something in the air. Minutes later around another bend in the road we find the elusive lions. There are seven of them, mostly cubs with a very young one in tow, perched on their preferred eyrie – a termite nest. Tendai informs me that it’s been six days since they’ve fed, and though we’re all keen to tail them, we leave them to hunt unhindered. The next morning we prepare to catch the Cessna 208 Caravan out of the camp. Though we are a bit pressed for time, we are captivated by a spectacular milieu about half the distance to the airstrip. A
pride of lions congregate around one of the natural waterholes. A few of them have bloodstains around their mouths and all evince the torpor of recent gluttony. They look fat and happy. Around a bend in the road a gang of hyenas are tittering and skittish in a clearing, their heads bobbing like buoys. Bones crack underneath jaws that pack the force of 900 psi into each bite. One of them pops up with the ribcage of a zebra, another with an entire leg, the foreleg of which has striped fur and hoof intact. It’s a grisly scene but a vital one – the feast following the famine. As the Cessna leaves the ground I have a different perspective on the landscape. The bush is filigreed with animal trails. The area around the waterholes has been trodden into the shape of nerves, rhomboidal areas around the water stretching out into synapses, axons and dendrites densely interwoven, marking the peregrinations of a multitude of game. I think about the electricity that has tickled my own nerves during my short stay here, and feel confident that the memories will persist.
Hwange National Park
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| travel - africa special |
where to stay Anyone travelling from Britain will want to take full advantage of this glorious country after such a long flight. Like Hwange, Mana Pools and Victoria Falls are must-see destinations.
Ruckomechi Camp Guided canoeing tours down the muscular Zambezi River amongst hippo and crocodiles. Walking safaris through thickets of mahogany and acacia, not to mention buffalo and eland. Sleeping in the open air listening to the competing calls of wild dogs and lions. Watching with rapt attention as an elephant walks just metres away from your tent, sated after drinking from the river. These are all common experiences at Ruckomechi Camp, which is situated on the border of Zambia in a place of astounding natural beauty.
Around a bend in the road a gang of hyenas are tittering and skittish in a clearing THIS IMAGE Linkwasha Camp Circles from top Rckomechi Camp, Lion in Hwange National Park, Baboon in Hwange National Park
Little Ruckomechi Located just downstream from its sister camp, Little Ruckomechi, which launched on 1 July, is an exclusive, boutique redoubt with three tented suites nestled amongst towering albida trees. Perhaps a bit more traditional than some of Wilderness Safaris other installations, Little Ruckomechi recalls the golden era of exploration, but with modern amenities such as a plunge pool overlooking the Zambezi.
Victoria Falls Safari Club Having a staging ground before or after a safari is essential to enjoying your journey, particularly when a ten-hour flight is on the cards. There aren’t many better places to do it than Victoria Falls Safari Club, where you might glimpse a giraffe’s head pirouetting above the canopy as they stroll down to the local waterhole. During our visit we were lucky to catch the ‘moonbow’ – an event that only happens during a full moon in which lunar light refracts through the spray of the waterfall and is visible through the dark. A trip to Zimbabwe with Wilderness Safaris includes two nights at Linkwasha Camp, two nights at Ruckomechi Camp and two nights at Africa Albida Tourism’s Victoria Falls Safari Club. World Odyssey package prices start from £3,320 per person sharing and are inclusive of breakfast (Victoria Falls Safari Club) and all meals, local drinks, two scheduled safari activities per day & laundry (Linkwasha & Ruckomechi), road transfer & scheduled light aircraft flights in Zimbabwe. Excludes imported drinks and champagne, airport departure tax of US $15 per person from Victoria Falls airport. To make a booking call 01905 731 373 or visit world-odyssey.com
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THE VINE HOP
| travel - |africa OUT OFspecial OFFICE |
The best way to get under the skin of South Africa’s grapes is to go on a vineyard crawl, as Rowena Marella-Daw experienced while wining and dining her way through Stellenbosch
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orget the pub crawl. ‘Vine hopping’ is the fun, sophisticated way to indulge your wine cravings. And I don’t mean schlepping down to France or Italy just for a weekend of wine tasting. Instead, head to Stellenbosch for a welldeserved holiday made more memorable by discovering exciting, award-winning wines from South Africa’s Western Cape Winelands. Stellenbosch is said to have the highest concentration of quality wine producers in the world – a blend of grand and boutique producers, including more than 150 wine farms within a 30km radius. Grapes grown in the Western Cape benefit from a rich biodiversity unique to the Cape Floral Kingdom, so winemakers can hand-pick grapes with distinct character and flavour profiles. Stellenbosch is a lifestyle rich in winemaking tradition, gastronomic delights and the great outdoors. Driving along the R310 towards its heart, I lost count of sprawling vineyards gracing the slopes of the majestic Stellenbosch, Jonkershoek and Simonsberg Mountains. This town is home to Stellenbosch University, which explains its trendy, lively vibe, particularly around Church Street, with its stretch of boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, art galleries and museums. There’s a villagey feel about the place too, with oak-lined streets and period buildings depicting colonial Cape Dutchstyle architecture. Eating and drinking your way around Stellenbosch is the best way to capture its spirit. My initiation began with a Foodies on Foot tour of the town with Hanli of Bites and Sites – and there is much to stimulate the taste buds – from coffee and delicious desserts at M Patisserie to a bite of biltong, the South African version of beef jerky, at Eikeboom Butchery. Schoon de Companje is a rustic, hippie-style cooperative of artisan ice cream, meat, wine, coffee beans, and a place to gather for live music while
sipping the local brew. Taking a break from the food trip, it was time for some serious wine tasting. My first pit stop was a salt and wine pairing of Fleur du Cap’s Unfiltered range (Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet, and the Noble Late Harvest dessert wine) at Die Bergkelder cellars. These wines are crafted with minimal intervention using a clarifying method of ‘settling under gravity’ without the use of filters, and experts say unfiltered wine retains more of its complexity and rich character. When paired with different types of salt from around the world (there are about 161 in total), the wine’s character and mouthfeel changed. The Unfiltered Sauvignon Blanc 2014 (paired with sulphuric volcanic salt from Pakistan) had a smooth and velvety finish and the aroma of fresh cut grass, while the Unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (paired with red alaea mud salt from Hawaii) got top marks for its fullbodied character. Vineyard hopping is more enjoyable and safer when you have a driver. My husband and I were driven to Stellenbosch Vineyards next for a vertical tasting involving various vintages of the same variety. The Lanner Hill Kumkani Sauvignon Blanc vintages ranging from 2006 to 2015 were already set on the table when we arrived. Kumkani means ‘king’ in the native Xhosa language, and while these wines came from the same variety, they certainly differed in character, influenced primarily by climate conditions. In my book, the 2008 vintage is ‘king’ for its distinct taste – hints of lychee and pear, lemony aroma and light gold colour. The vertical tasting was fun, and I didn’t end up horizontal. By the time we checked in at the WedgeView Country House & Spa, the braai was already on the go – rugby
this image Ernie Els Wines Circles from top: Stellenbosch vineyards, Lanzerac Hotel, Wedgeview Hotel room interior, Cape Grace, Wedgeview Hotel
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Van Ryn’s Distillery
player-size portions of marinated beef, pork kebabs, chicken and the tastiest lamb chops sizzling away. WedgeView is set within a valley of endless vineyards, its pretty gardens complemented by dreamy mountain vistas. Although just a 15-minute drive from the centre of Stellenbosch, it felt miles away from civilisation. The Honeymoon Suite and Presidential Suite are the best rooms here, and of course, they serve a fine selection of wines. The promise of a hearty breakfast in a winery justified an early start, heading off to J.C. Le Roux estate in Devon Valley, where Le Venue restaurant’s bright and modern style matched the dynamic cuisine – my Eggs Benedict came with tasty, healthy bread instead of the usual muffin. J.C. Le Roux employs the Méthode Cap Classique technique to produce sparkling wines with delicate, bead-like bubbles. Varying proportions of quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes are blended, fermented and matured to craft a range of styles: Vintage Pinot Noir, Pinot Noir Rosée, Brut, Scintilla and La Vallée Rosé. The award-winning Scintilla 2009 stood out for its elegant, well-balanced palate, fruity note and biscuity flavour. A fitting ending to the tasting was a demonstration of sabrage, a tradition that goes back to the Napoleonic era, when troops celebrated victory using their sabres to sever the neck of a Champagne bottle in one swift stroke. Today this tradition is still celebrated around the world to mark special occasions. For a very different palate experience, our next port of call was Van Ryn’s, the only brandy distillery in Stellenbosch. Dating back to 1845, the brand has since earned many accolades, most notably the prestigious annual title of Worldwide Best Brandy, awarded five times by the IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition). Learning about the process of distilling on copper pot stills, maturing and blending was like a lesson in chemistry – which went slightly over my head. Easier to take in though, was watching a craftsman make an oak barrel from scratch. There was a lot of pounding and squeezing of metal girdles, but the end result was a tightly sealed and perfectly formed barrel. Then came the brandy, Belgian chocolate and Brazilian
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coffee pairing session, and according to our tasting guide, swirling your snifter can result in the loss of “volatile and precious flavours”. Age and wood maturation determine nuances in colour, note and palate, and this was evident in the 12, 15 and 20-year-old vintages, with the younger brandies having a more precocious kick, while the older veterans delivered richer flavours and a smoother, more satiny finish. Competition among wineries is stiff, and Tokara, a premium player, stays ahead of the game with its award-winning wines and fine dining restaurant, alongside its brandy, olive oils, delicatessen and art gallery. Its location 400 metres above sea level on Helshoogte Pass benefits from panoramic views over Stellenbosch and Cape Town in the distance, and arriving just in time for the sunset adds a romantic touch to the vibrant setting. South Africa’s burgeoning culinary scene is led by talented chefs with a penchant for innovative cuisine and a love of traditional fare peppered with exotic influences. Seven of the country’s top 20 restaurants are based around Stellenbosch, justifying its reputation as the country’s gourmet capital. At Tokara, award-winning chef Richard Carstens brings 27 years of cooking experience to the table with dishes such as Leipoldt springbok with turmeric croquette, mangetout, butternut, salted apricots, banana ice cream and curry jus. Gracing Tokara’s corridors and walls are art installations, sculptures and paintings using wine as a medium, and they too engage the senses. Stellenbosch has no shortage of luxury hotels, many of which are steeped in history. Driving through the leafy residential enclaves of Jonkershoek Valley led us to Lanzerac Hotel & Spa, set on a working wine estate dating back to 1692. And as one would expect, the buildings reflect the iconic white-washed Dutch architecture. There are only 48 luxury rooms, some with patios overlooking the gardens, but my favourite features have to be the Delft blueinspired wallpaper and exquisite bathroom decked with period pieces. One of the more popular tastings is pairing premium wines with chocolate, made especially by Lanzerac’s chocolatier to complement each variety. The Mrs English Chardonnay 2013 vintage stood out, and I couldn’t get enough of the Merlot & Pinotage with Dark Cherry Cigar chocolate. Other wine tasting experiences not to be missed include the Jordan wine safari and tasting on board a Land Rover, stopping at viewpoints overlooking False and Table Bays. To experience them all would require a 365day holiday, which sounds very tempting. Our sojourn in Stellenbosch ended with a memorable dinner at Makaron restaurant at
Age and wood maturation determine nuances in colour, note and palate
Stellenbosch landscape
Majeka House, a quirky boutique retreat with a chic private club setting. A menu of bold dishes are prepared and presented with panache. Stellenbosch is one of those places that get under your skin even if you’re not a wine lover. Perhaps it’s the openness and warmth of the locals, the winemakers’ passion for their craft, and the sheer beauty of the place. The soul of Stellenbosch intoxicates. Bites and Sites, bitesandsites.co.za; Fleur du Cap, fleurducap.co.za; Stellenbosch Vineyards, stellenboschvineyards.co.za; J.C. Le Roux, jcleroux.co.za; Lanzerac Hotel & Spa, lanzerac.co.za; Majeka House, majekahouse.co.za; Tokara Restaurant, tokararestaurant.co.za; Van Ryn’s Distillery, vanryn.co.za; WedgeView Country House & Spa, wedgeview.co.za
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| travel - africa special |
Detour to Cape Town Cape Town makes an ideal base from which to explore the Winelands and the glorious Garden Route. Staying at Cape Grace hotel in the heart of Cape Town’s buzzing V&A Waterfront meant we could resume the fine dining food trip at the hotel’s Signal Restaurant. Elegant decor comes in a mix of aged yellowwood furniture, hand-crafted chandeliers, and a tapestry depicting Table Bay in the 16th century. Our seven-course tasting menu came with wine pairings from boutique vineyards, and when in South Africa, do as South Africans do – eat ostrich and springbok. The biltong-cured ostrich was lean, the meat dark from the spices, with a tender and moist texture akin to raw tuna. The springbok was soft and light, and is supposed to be healthier than even the leanest steak. capegrace.com
Van Ryn’s Distillery tasting room
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Tokara Restaurant
Stellenbosch is one of those places that get under your skin
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SOAR KENYA Born Free celebrates its 50th anniversary this year – Jeremy Taylor joins a flying safari in Kenya where it was filmed
this image Tortilis Camp bush walk Above circles, left to right: Sand River Masai Mara family tent; Elsa’s Bush Breakfast; Sand River Masai Mara tent bathroom RIGHT Tortilis Camp © Niels van Gijn this image Elsa’s Game Drive left Masai Mara Game Reserve
| travel - africa special |
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he best way to spot an angry elephant is to watch its ears. African bush elephants rarely give an audible warning, but if the ears start flapping, that’s a sure sign you’re not welcome. Our game drive truck has open sides but even an armour-plated Hummer would come off second best in a collision with the five-ton male that’s looking our way. Elephants can run at speeds of up to 25mph. We’re only 20 metres away and suddenly there’s a cloud of dust as the animal veers towards us. The driver is forced to execute a high-speed U-turn and we are quickly heading off down the track, the elephant in pursuit. I’m in Meru National Park, deep in the Northern Frontier district of Kenya. The area’s wildlife was devastated by Somali poachers in the ’80s and is only now recovering back to normal levels. It’s hot, dusty and remote – which makes it a perfect destination for safari lovers like me, looking to escape the hordes roaming more accessible sites.
Meru stretches 480 sq miles north-east of Mount Kenya and across the equator. There’s very little rainfall but a network of rivers criss-cross the terrain to lure animals of every shape and size. Cheetah, leopard, Grant’s gazelle, 300 species of bird – you just need patience and a good pair of binoculars. Elephants are easy to spot here and there’s a heavily protected rhino sanctuary, too. However, the open grassland and acacia woodland that dominates the plain is most famous for a single lion cub and the woman who raised her. Elsa the lioness was hand-reared by Joy Adamson, who later wrote a blockbuster novel about her animal adventure, entitled Born Free. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the film adaptation, which starred Virginia McKenna and helped put Meru on the
armchairs afford the first views of the vast plains that surround the city. Peter the pilot provides a running commentary – my top tip is to ask for the co-pilot’s seat. On a clear day you can see the snowy peak of Mount Kilimanjaro dead ahead. There are dirt airstrips everywhere in Kenya but landing in Amboseli National Park, it’s clear that aircraft are few and far between. Even the locals have turned out to watch us land. A guard has to be paid $10 to protect the aircraft at night – not from human thieves but hyenas. The predators have a taste for tyres, which are sometimes smeared in engine oil to throw them off the rubbery scent. Our driver is called Eric and he’s wearing tartan. He’s a former Masai warrior and that’s not his real name but let’s not spoil the magic. Traditionally,
A guard has to be paid $10 to protect the aircraft at night – not from human thieves but hyenas. conservation map. It’s a memorable place and now a lot easier to reach, thanks to a new aerial safari tour. SkySafari launched in June and takes most of the back-jarring driving out of a Kenyan adventure. It also offers a whistle-stop tour of three key wildlife locations in a little over a week. The tour starts at Nairobi, with a 75-minute flight from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport aboard a private Cessna Skyvan. Sumptuous, leather-clad
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Masai wore capes made from calf hide but they were replaced in the ’60s by brightly coloured red plaid. Ironically, it’s the one item you won’t find among the beads and trinkets on sale in the camp gift shops. Amboseli is dominated by the backdrop of Kilimanjaro – the world’s highest, free-standing mountain. Except today it’s caped in cloud and we have to make do with herds of roaming elephant. There are hundreds of them and the lack of
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| travel - africa special |
No fencing means the animals get to share the spectacular sunrises and sunsets too
vegetation means they are even easier to nutshells on my cottage roof. A narrow find. Giraffe, hippopotamus, buffalo and strip of rock running past my veranda is impala are plentiful too. like a highway for the animal kingdom, After a long flight from Europe, with baboons, fluffy hyrax and lizards the Tortilis Camp is an oasis. The 16 ‘tents’ regular commuters. There are no glass are festooned in mosquito nets and soft windows, just heavy-duty mosquito nets furnishings. Showers, hot water, power to keep them at bay. The view from my sockets – no wonder the baboons like loo is spectacular. nothing more than slipping through an Fortunately, Elsa’s Kopje hasn’t become open zip when you’ve popped up to the the centre of a Born Free resort. Actress main lodge for sundowners and supper. Virginia Mckenna is still a regular visitor Tortilis is a fenced camp but at our next (after making the film she later formed the flying stop, visitors need to be escorted Born Free Foundation with her husband back to their luxury hut after 6.30pm. and co-star Bill Travers) – but only the Elsa’s Kopje in the Meru is situated on a occasional black and white photograph rocky hill above the site of Joy and George of the Adamsons serves as a reminder of Adamson’s original camp. It was here that what happened here. Elsa was set free and reintroduced into The private airstrip at Elsa’s Kopje is a the wild. Cheetahs occasionally roam the two-minute Land Rover ride down the hill grounds but they’re more scared of humans from reception. With bags safely stowed, than we should be of them. Peter turns the Short Skyvan due south No fencing means the again and heads for the Masai animals get to share the Mara National Reserve, on the spectacular sunrises Tanzanian border, close to and sunsets too. the Serengeti National An eight-day SkySafari by I’m woken by Park. Cheli & Peacock costs from the sound of a Apart from the £4,185 per person and includes monkey shedding abundant game, this is all accommodation, fees, transfer where you can see the flights and meals, skysafari.com. Kenya spectacular migration Airways operates daily flights to of wildebeest – the Nairobi from London. Return prices oddball antelopes start from £701 including taxes, often called gnus. July kenya-airways.com and August are the best time to view this phenomenon, as they sweep across the grassy plain, grazing by the million. Sand River Camp is a perfect place to see Mother Nature in action. There are no fences, so guards again escort you back to your lodge after dinner. I doubted they were needed until later that night, when my sleep was disturbed by lions roaming the camp. Their roar sounds like a guttural chainsaw. Another guest found a hippo rubbing its rump against her outdoor shower. The migration was just about to start as I left Sand River. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be on everybody’s bucket list. I’ve ticked off countless animals on my flying tour of Kenya but at least now I still have a good reason to go back.
need to know
this image Sundowners in Elsa’s infinity pool above, left Sand River Masai Mara pool area at twilight above Sand River Masai Mara dinner with a view right Sundowners in front of Mount Kilimanjaro at Tortilis Camp
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WELLNESS
as an Art
Oasis gives you a moment to stop and take a breath. Feel the freedom and relaxation in your body and mind. Let your senses be inspired in a private paradise. It is all waiting for you. The art of wellbeing.
The Oasis by Don Carlos Resort · Boutique Hotel Experience · Marbella T (+34) 933 271 455 · dcreservas@expogrupo.com · www.doncarlosresort.expohotels.com/en/the-oasis · www.expohotels.com
| travel - africa special |
hotel of the month: CAPE VIEW CLIFTON
During a tour of South Africa, Annabel Harrison discovers Cape View Clifton, a stunning home away from home, set among some of the most valuable real estate in Cape Town
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elcome to Cape Town, a jewel of a city fringed by golden beaches, soaring mountains and the sparkling Atlantic sea which stretches as far as the eye can see. We wind around the foothills of Table Mountain and pull up at boutique guesthouse Cape View Clifton, where we’re welcomed like family and given a glass of champagne. It aims to be ‘a home away from home’ and the open-plan ground floor does feel like a wonderfully relaxed private house, with a bright white kitchen (where breakfast is prepared), a TV/snug area, complete with books, magazines and an iPod dock, a coffee/tea station and honesty bar, and a big dining area. This opens out onto two terraces, the
time, as a result, on the private terrace of our suite, one morning watching my husband happily race off on an early morning run and swim (an activity dozens of locals seem to be partaking in, too). There are only seven suites, built in staggered layers into the hill, as all the properties in Clifton are. Our rooms are designed in a fresh, modern style, with a distinct Malibu/New England touch, and white is king, with chic, warming grey sofas and furnishings. The communal areas boast refurbished vintage pieces and antiques, natural fabrics, and black and white photography; it’s the gold standard of relaxed, elegant African design done so perfectly in the continent’s
the tempting spread of fresh pastries, mounds of fresh fruit, yoghurt and cereal in favour of the hot option; low GI bread, poached eggs, rocket, spinach and baby tomatoes, the kind of perfect breakfast you vow to make more often at home. Fuelled, we hop in the car to explore, stopping in Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak, Simon’s Town (perfect for boutique-browsing and enjoying an ice-cream), Fish Hoek and Boulders Beach, a popular spot to watch the imperious penguins waddling about. By late afternoon when we return, Camps Bay, a lovely half-hour walk from Cape View Clifton, is thronged with people as families and groups of friends flock from the wide, white-sand beach into the bars and restaurants fringing the coastline. Cape View Clifton recommends a number of places to eat out and we concur that Codfather and Hussar Grill are both brilliant, buzzing places that locals clearly love. We’re reluctant to leave Cape Town the next morning, especially after a truly enjoyable stay at Cape View Clifton, but the Garden Route beckons and off we go. Scott Dunn offers five nights at Cape View Clifton, Cape Town, from £1,675 per person. This is based on a couple sharing on a B&B basis and includes return flights and private airport transfers. For more information call 020 8682 5070, or visit scottdunn.com
Here are only seven suites, built in staggered layers into the hill larger of which plays host to a small pool, seating, sunbeds and dining tables; the perfect sundowner spot, we later discover. As The Sunday Telegraph said in a review I read before leaving the UK, this city offers any number of splendid views but “none surpass those from the small, stylishly furnished Cape View Clifton”. I spend a disproportionate amount of
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safari lodges too. The staff are very friendly, but discreet; when you need them, they’ll be there but will otherwise leave you to enjoy yourselves. Although we have our own kitchen and can cook for ourselves, we’re invited to request dinner and lunches by prior arrangement or eat out – people seem to do a mixture of the three. At breakfast, I bypass
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A CALM S PA C E IN A VIBRANT PLACE
Sales and Marketing Suite launching Saturday 9th July Queenshurst is a brand new collection of Manhattan suites, one, two and three bedroom apartments, just 5-minutes walk from Kingston’s train station and town centre. A private residents’ gym and concierge add to the range of leisure facilities nearby, giving residents a truly enviable lifestyle. Prices starting from: £420,000 Call to book your appointment: 020 3468 3251 Sales & Marketing Suite: Sury Basin, Kingston, KT2 5NZ Prices and details correct at time of going to press. Computer generated image is indicative only. Walking times source: walkit.com
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PROPERTY NEWS
Keep tabs on the market, whether you are living or investing in the capital
SALES ANDREW GROOCOCK, head of sales at Knight Frank Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the residential sales market By the time you read this, the shadow of Brexit that has been looming large over the property market will have been removed. Whichever way the vote goes it will be a blessed relief for the uncertainty to have been removed from the marketplace. Whenever there is uncertainty, the property market is one area that takes a stumble, be it general election, referendums or tax changes. While there’s no doubt that there has been a reduction in buyers willing to commit pre-referendum, it is not all doom and gloom. There are opportunities out there, and deals are still being agreed on a weekly basis, both to investors and end users. We recently launched a scheme in Dartford and the entire first phase was sold out in approximately three weeks, so the market really isn’t ‘bad’ at the moment. Times like these make choosing an agent all the more important to ensure that your property doesn’t just become
The Bank of Mum and Dad will help 305,900 of their loved ones buy a home in 2016, giving an average of £17,500 to each to fund the purchase of £77bn worth of property. This means the Bank of Mum and Dad will be involved in 25 per cent of all mortgage transactions in 2016. – Legal & General BOUTIQUE BATHROOMS
We recently launched a scheme in Dartford and the entire first phase was sold out in three weeks another on that agent’s list. Of course, fees are important as is the price that the property is marketed at, but the most important thing is to employ a motivated agent who you believe is going to go the extra mile to ensure that gold price is achieved for what will be one of your most valuable assets. Canary Wharf continues to flourish as a destination for buyers from all walks of life. We sold to over 78 different nationalities last year, showing that the area really is a worldwide destination. The safety and security of the estate coupled with the phenomenal transport links, facilities within close proximity and modern housing stock, make Canary Wharf an extremely desirable destination. Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 knightfrank.co.uk/canarywharf
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Matki has unveiled a new Walk-In shower range, to bring the hotel-spa experience into the home. The collection showcases the beauty of 8mm and 10mm solid safety glass, and features discreet yet highly polished chrome finishing. All configurations come with an integrated shower tray and optional integrated brassware as part of the package. Unique engineering has ensured a water-tight secure seal, without the need for aesthetically displeasing silicon sealant. Form aside, Boutique excels in terms of function, with its industry-leading thermostatic valves. The Boutique Walk-In range, from £1,861.20 including VAT, Matki, matki.co.uk
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| PROPERTY |
LETTINGS CHRISTOPHER PAXTON, head of lettings at Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the residential lettings market Annual rental value growth in prime central London declined to -2.3 per cent in May, which was the lowest rate since February 2014. This compares to a figure of 4.2 per cent a year ago in the month of the UK general election, which was the strongest month for annual rental value growth since December 2011. The positive figure then reflected the fact that many buyers were uncertain over the trajectory of the sales market and instead decided to rent as a short-term measure. However, uncertainty has
ON SHOW Genessia, the real estate development company founded by contemporary interior designer Shalini Misra and Ekta Verma, has launched a spectacular 2,355 sq ft apartment on South Audley Street in Mayfair. Finished to the highest specifications, Misra and her team at Shalini Misra Ltd, an interior design practice, made each and every element of this scheme bespoke, while also drawing from their extensive portfolio of high-end residential projects around the globe. Original fireplaces and cornices were retained, while various updates have been made to deliver the expected comforts of modern life – air conditioning and underfloor heating is one feature you’ll find throughout. Located within a Victorian building, the space comprises a double reception room, which incorporates a formal dining area, a kitchen with informal dining, a utility room, staff bathroom, a beautiful master bedroom suite with a walk-in wardrobe, study area and a large bathroom. All rooms boast three-metre-high ceilings. shalinimisra.com
Uncertainty has also since affected vendors, who have opted to let out their properties until greater clarity emerges also since affected vendors, who have opted to let out their properties until greater clarity emerges around the short-term prospects for price growth in the sales market. As supply levels have risen, the balance of power has shifted towards tenants and rental values have fallen. The number of new lettings properties coming onto the market in prime central London between January and April 2016 increased 18.1 per cent compared to 2015. In the same period, the number of tenancies started declined -5.4 per cent and the number of new prospective tenants registering fell -2.3 per cent, underlining the growth in the amount of rental properties compared to tenants. The number of viewings rose 5.9 per cent over the same period, highlighting how tenants have become increasingly selective and take longer before agreeing letting deals. This shift in the balance of supply and demand has taken place against a jittery global financial backdrop, which means many corporate tenants, particularly at a senior executive level, have reduced budgets or curbed relocation plans. *This article was taken from the Knight Frank Residential Research Team Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 knightfrank.co.uk/canarywharf
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A VERY IMPORTANT DECISION 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. To arrange a free market appraisal, please call us on 020 8166 5375 or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/Wandsworth Guide price: £2,750,000
Henderson Road, Wandsworth SW17 A handsome family house of substantial proportions located on the much sought after “Toast Rack”. 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (1 en suite), 2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, downstairs cloakroom/utility room, study, cellar, 68ft rear garden, off street parking. EPC: E. Approximately 240.68 sq m (2,591 sq ft). wandsworth@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8682 7777
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
Guide price: £2,500,000
Malwood Road, Wandsworth SW12 A well presented Victorian house with a landscaped garden. 7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), double reception room, kitchen/dining/family room, downstairs cloakroom, south west facing garden. EPC: C. Approximately 352.72sq m (3,506 sq ft). wandsworth@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8682 7777
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A VERY IMPORTANT DECISION We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrilvalled market knowledge, with a global netowrk of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience. To arrange a free market appraisal, please call us on 020 8166 5375 or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping Guide price: £1,795,000
Olivers Wharf, Wapping E1W A beautifully presented apartment within a highly sought after warehouse conversion. Reception room, 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, porterage and parking. Approximately 281 sq m (3025 sq ft). Share of freehold. wapping@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5375
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
Guide price: £2,450,000
New Crane Wharf, Wapping E1W A three bedroom duplex penthouse with a terrace and far reaching river views. Reception room, 2 kitchens, 3 bathrooms, roof terrace, porterage and parking. Approximately 213 sq m (2289 sq ft). Share of freehold. wapping@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5375
297h 210w Mayfair Mag
22/06/2016 12:37:27
WHAT'S YOUR NEXT MOVE? To find out how we can help you please contact us 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. If you are considering letting a property this year, please contact us on 020 8166 5366 or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an
Guide price: £775 per week
Teal Court, City Quay E1W
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Smart and well-presented apartment set in this very popular 24 hour portered development overlooking St Katharine Docks. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a good size reception room with access onto a private terrace, separate kitchen, wooden floors, good storage, underground parking and great views of the Dock. EPC: B. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5366
administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person 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: £500 per week
Millers Wharf House, E1W Beautiful split level flat with great space for entertaining to rent in a popular portered development in west Wapping. Bedroom with en suite bathroom, reception room, downstairs WC, modern open plan kitchen. Appoximately 67 sq m (725 sq ft). EPC: C. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5366
City Wapping Lettings v4
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LOOKING TO LET? 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. If you are considering letting a property this year, please contact us on 020 8166 5366 or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings
Guide price: £550 per week
Capital Wharf, Wapping E1W Outstanding spacious apartment with beautiful views of the river to rent on the fifth floor of a popular 24 hour portered development. Bedroom, reception room, bathroom, access to a private balcony, underground parking space. The development also has a gym. Appoximately 76 sq m (824 sq ft). EPC: C. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5366
@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk
Guide price: £625 per week
Tower Bridge Wharf, Wapping E1W Contemporary light and spacious furnished flat to rent on the river, close to St Katherine Docks. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, private balcony, private parking space, 24 hour porter, stunning views of Tower Bridge. Appoximately 75 sq m (817 sq ft). EPC: B. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 020 8166 5366
City Wapping Lettings v4
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savills.co.uk
BUTLERS & COLONIAL WHARF, se1
ROPE STREET, se16
Entrance hall ø reception room ø kitchen ø bedroom ø bathroom ø balcony ø 58.5 sq m (630 sq ft) ø EPC=B
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony ø winter garden ø skyline views ø allocated parking ø 121 sq m (1,302 sq ft) ø EPC=C
Guide £675,000 Leasehold
Guide £735,000 Leasehold
Savills Wapping llaws@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Wapping rcashley@savills.com 0207 456 6800
SOUTHBANK TOWER, se1
RIVIERA COURT, e1w
Reception room ø kitchen ø bedroom ø bathoom ø gym and swimming pool ø communal libary ø communal cinema ø concierge ø communal gardens ø 64.1 sq m (690 sq ft) ø EPC=B
Reception room ø dining room ø 3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø mezzanine via spiral staircase ø direct lift access ø off-street parking ø 140.5 sq m (1,512 sq ft) ø EPC=C
Guide £1.185 million Leasehold
Guide £1.45 million Leasehold
Savills Wapping rcashley@savills.com 0207 456 6800
Savills Wapping llaws@savills.com 020 7456 6800
3 4
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Pacific Wharf, SE16 £425 per week Light, airy and modern one bedroom apartment with balcony and concierge facility. EPC: C
Webber Street, SE1 £495 per week Superb two bedroom corporate style apartment with concierge facility, private balcony and contemporary fittings throughout. EPC: C
Sandpiper Court, E1W £575 per week Beautiful one bedroom property overlooking St. Katharine’s Dock, moments from amenities and transport links. EPC: B
Ernst Building, SE1 £750 per week Two bedroom property over 1,000 sq. ft. newly renovated to a high specification, with private balcony. EPC: C
Lloyds Wharf, SE1 £895 per week Authentic warehouse conversion in the heart of Shad Thames, overlooking St. Saviours Dock with original features. EPC: D
Butlers Wharf Building, SE1 £1,100 per week River facing apartment, with feature L-shape reception room, finished to a superb level, with concierge on site. EPC: C
Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Sales. 020 7717 5489 | Lettings. 020 7717 5491
*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
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Lovat Lane, EC3 £1,035 per week – Short Let (charges apply)* A totally unique 1900 sq.ft. luxury three bedroom apartment. EPC: B
Red Lion Court, EC4 £495 per week (charges apply)* Superbly located one bedroom apartment. EPC: B
High Timber Street, EC4 £750 per week (charges apply)* A two bedroom apartment in the Globe View development. EPC: C
Old Street, EC1 £690 per week (charges apply)* A stylish two bedroom, two bathroom apartment. EPC: B
Leyden Street, E1 £475 per week (charges apply)* A stunning one bedroom apartment in the heart of Spitalfields. EPC: C
Turnmill Street, EC1 £450 per week (charges apply)*
Hamptons City Office Sales. 020 7717 5435 | Lettings. 020 7717 5437
A bright and beautifully presented one bedroom apartment. EPC: B
*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
Princelet Street, E1 £1,100,000 Share of Freehold A Super penthouse with views over the City. EPC: C
St Clements House, E1 £565,000 Leasehold A 570 sq.ft apartment in an art deco building. EPC: C
Lovat Lane, EC3 £1,500,000 Leasehold A totally unique 1887 sq.ft. luxury apartment. EPC: B
Britton Street, EC1 £7,999,950 Freehold A unique 5570sqft period house with swimming pool. EPC: Grade II Listed
Mitre Street, EC3 £1,300,000 Leasehold A stunning penthouse apartment with private roof terrace. EPC: C
Wild street, WC2 £1,999,995 Leasehold A 1200 sq.ft. warehouse conversion in Covent Garden. EPC: G
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Northolme Road, N5 A beautiful bay fronted five bedroom period house nestled within a popular conservation area in Highbury. There are many original period features retained, including fireplaces and ceiling mouldings. The layout of the accommodation provides excellent living space on the ground floor with two reception rooms and a kitchen to the rear which has existing planning permission to extend. On the upper floors there are five bedrooms split across two floors. EPC: D
Hamptons Islington Office Sales. 020 7717 5453 | Lettings. 020 7717 5335
£2,195,000 Freehold • • • • • •
Beautiful family period home Five bedrooms Two reception rooms Kitchen with planning permission to extend Two bathrooms Rear garden, conservation area
Parkholme Road, E8 A wonderful 6 bedroom period family home offering accommodation over four floors. Living space on the ground and lower ground are flexible and currently offer a large light open plan kitchen dining area leading onto the garden. There is a large utility room and formal reception room to the front with fireplace. The property throughout boasts wooden floors, open fireplaces and high ceilings. At the rear is a lovely enclosed garden with mature shrubs, trees and patio area. EPC: D
£2,200,000 Freehold • • • • • •
6 Bedrooms Flexible accommodation Kitchen dining room Utility room Reception room Garden
ALDWYCH CHAMBERS, TEMPLE WC2R ● ● ● ●
1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Luxury finish 24 Hour concierge
● ●
EPC: C Approx. 538 sq ft (50 sq m)
Price £650 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
TAYLOR PLACE, BOW E3 ● ● ● ●
Penthouse apartment 2 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms Private terrace
● ●
Underground parking Approx. 1488 sq ft (138.3 sq m)
Price £825,000 Leasehold For more information, call Bernard Cully 020 3813 5949 or email bernard.cully@eu.jll.com
16-17 Royal Exchange London EC3V 3LL
jll.co.uk/residential
`
cbreresidential.com/uk
+44 (0)20 7205 4553
London Dock, Wapping E1 Move in this year
London Dock by St George is situated between the City of London, More London, the City fringe/ Tech city and Canary Wharf as well as being just moments from Wapping High Street. This exciting new destination offers a beautiful range of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with hotel-style amenities including a private residents’ lounge, health and fitness suite, 24 hour concierge and managed underground parking making it an unrivalled place to live.
1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments from ÂŁ869,950 to ÂŁ4,000,000 westend.sales@cbre.com
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cbreresidential.com/uk
Canaletto Building, City Road, EC1 A simply stunning two bedroom apartment in a brand new development on City Road benefitting from a 24 hour concierge and a lift. 933 sq ft.
Guide price ÂŁ825 per week
Chronicle Tower, City Road, EC1 A brand new two bedroom, two bathroom, thirtieth floor flat set within the eagerly anticipated Chronicle Tower on City Road. The property is finished to the highest of standards and has everything required for modern city living. 898 sq ft.
Guide price ÂŁ950 per week
+44 (0)20 7205 4553
westend.lettings@cbre.com
cbreresidential.com/uk
Charterhouse Square, Barbican, EC1 A brand new two double bedroom flat to rent in a beautiful newly refurbished development overlooking the much sought after Charterhouse Square. 1,301 sq ft.
Guide price £1,300 per week
St Dunstans Court, Fetter Lane, EC4 A brand new luxury two bedroom apartment located on the fifth floor with stunning views of the landscape gardens and the Grade II listed King’s College Maughan Library. 1,239 sq ft.
Guide price £1,400 per week
+44 (0)20 7205 4553
westend.lettings@cbre.com
Experience. Serv The key to prope Now open in Clerk We are delighted to announce the opening of our new sales and lettings branch, located at 132–136 St John Street. With a network of more than 55 branches across the Capital, we have access to an extensive database of both local and international buyers and tenants. This, combined with over 35 years’ experience and a complete property service offering, means we will ensure your next property move is a success. Exclusive launch offer available to landlords. To find out more visit our website.
kfh.co.uk/clerkenwell
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KFH
ice. Network. rty success. enwell. Visit us at: KFH Clerkenwell 132–136 St John Street Clerkenwell EC1V 4JT Simon Boulton Sales Manager 020 3792 9209 clerkenwell.sales@kfh.co.uk
Our services Sales and Lettings Land and New Homes Block and Estate Management
Kate Bentley Lettings Manager 020 3792 9225 clerkenwell.lettings@kfh.co.uk
16:26
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Property Solicitors Chartered Surveyors Financial Services
18/04/2016 16:26
Bickenhall Mansions W1U ÂŁ1,600,000 A beautifully refurbished three-bedroom flat, set in a prestigious mansion block near Baker Street. Share of Freehold. EPC=D Marylebone Sales: 020 7935 1775 sales.mar@marshandparsons.co.uk
Randolph Avenue W9 ÂŁ1,450,000 A truly stunning three-bedroom maisonette, set on a lovely tree-lined street in Maida Vale. Share of Freehold. EPC=D Little Venice Sales: 020 7993 3050 sales.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk
D
Portman Mansions W1 ÂŁ1,325 per week An incredible, newly refurbished two-bedroom apartment, located on Chiltern Street in Marylebone. EPC=D Marylebone Lettings: 020 7935 1775 lets.mar@marshandparsons.co.uk
Clifton Court NW8 ÂŁ1,300 per week A stunning three-bedroom apartment in a period mansion block, set in the heart of Little Venice. EPC=D Little Venice Lettings: 020 7993 3050 lets.lve@marshandparsons.co.uk
122 NEWGATE STREET LONDON EC1A 7AA
T: 020 7600 0026 W: www.scottcity.co.uk E: property@scottcity.co.uk
BRETON HOUSE, BARBICAN, EC2 FOR SALE £545,000 Situated on the first floor of BRETON HOUSE in the BARBICAN is this large style STUDIO FLAT ( type F2A ) featuring a WEST FACING BALCONY. The property has been improved by the present owners to include a re-fitted shower room and recently redecorated throughout. The property also offers a good size studio room, original Barbican kitchen and a balcony. Close to MOORGATE (Northern Line), St PAUL’S (Central Line) and the new Crossrail Station at Moorgate(under construction, due 2018).
CITY VIEW, FARRINGDON EC1 FOR SALE £595,000 City View Apartments are ideally located, close to Farringdon and Chancery Lane tube stations. ONE BEDROOM apartment benefits from a high standard of fixtures and fittings, under floor heating, walnut veneer doors, oak wood flooring, granite worktops and natural stone bathrooms. Bright open plan kitchen/diner with fully fitted kitchen and all appliances, lounge with private west facing BALCONY with views over LONDON. The property further benefits from video entry system and lift access.
TEMPLE, EC4 £695 PER WEEK
WEST SMITHFIELD, EC1 £340 PER WEEK
AVAILABLE NOW - A fantastic bright and spacious two bedroom apartment approximately 900sqft in size. Internally the apartment further benefits from a wonderful dual aspect reception room leading to a semi open plan modern luxury kitchen. The apartment comes furnished to a high standard.
AVAILABLE NOW - This brilliantly located STUDIO offers a FULLY FITTED KITCHEN with dishwasher & washer dryer. The flat is finished with very high quality fixtures & fittings and also benefits from a LIMESTONE WET-ROOM, which finishes off this fantastic apartment, and 24 HOUR CONCIERGE.
BARTHOLOMEW CLOSE, EC1 £350 PER WEEK
BARBICAN, EC2 £420 PER WEEK
AVAILABLE EARLY JULY - A contemporary STUDIO apartment within this period building located next door to the historic church of St. Bartholomew the Great. Ideally positioned as a City pied-a-terre, the flat has wood flooring, a high quality kitchen and bathroom, modern furnishings and neutral decor and is offered FURNISHED.
AVAILABLE EARLY JULY - This ONE BEDROOM flat is offered UNFURNISHED and is situated below podium level. Within the flat, you still benefit from the ever present original kitchen & bathroom. The Property will receive a full decoration, including painting throughout to ensure it has that brand new feel.
We have London covered!
HEATHROW AIRPORT
WEST LONDON North Acton W3 020 8896 9990
BIG BEN
WESTMINSTER Monck Street SW1P 020 7222 2005
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COUNTY HALL Southbank SE1 020 7620 1600
TATE MODERN
WHITEHOUSE Waterloo SE1 020 7928 7007
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NINE ELMS – RIVERSIDE Vauxhall SW8 020 7582 7989
LETTINGS | MANAGEMENT | SALES | SERVICED APARTMENTS CityMagazine_July2016.indd 1
WEMBLEY STADIUM
NORTH LONDON Drayton Park N5 020 7359 4488
TOWER BRIDGE
TOWER BRIDGE – CITY Shad Thames SE1 020 7234 0666
ONE CANADA SQUARE
CANARY WHARF Millharbour E14 020 3668 1030
BALTIMORE TOWER
CROSSHARBOUR Baltimore Tower E14 020 3846 3330
EMIRATES AIRLINE
EAST LONDON ExCeL London E16 020 7476 0125
THE O2 ARENA
GREENWICH New Capital Quay SE10 020 7476 0125
DEPTFORD ANCHOR
DEPTFORD Deals Gateway SE10 020 8692 2244
liferesidential.co.uk 20/06/2016 11:28
LETTINGS
2
£700 pw | £3,033 pcm
2
Altitude Point, 71 Alie Street E1 • 9th floor apartment
• 24 hour concierge
• Resident’s roof terrace
• 0.2 miles from Aldgate East station
• 0.5 miles from Tower Hill station
LETTINGS | MANAGEMENT | SALES | SERVICED APARTMENTS
CityMagazine_July2016.indd 2
For more information call our Tower Bridge branch on: 020 7234 0666
LETTINGS
2
£850 pw | £3,683 pcm
2
Grafton Mews, Kings Cross W1T • Moments from Warren Street station • Stunning interior design
• Flexible availability • Master bedroom with deluxe en-suite bathroom
• Beautiful secluded apartment
For more information call our Westminster branch on: 020 7222 2005
liferesidential.co.uk
20/06/2016 11:28
Beckenham 020 8663 4433 Bromley 020 8315 5544
Keston BR2
Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Locksbottom 01689 882 988
Orpington 01689 661 400 West Wickham 020 8432 7373
£2,300,000 F/H
The Cedars is an exceptional family home occupying a large South West facing plot of approximately one acre. Set in the pretty village of Keston, the private close is set behind automated wrought iron gates opening to a beautiful sweeping tree-lined drive which leads to the development.
Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988
Shirley Hills CR0
£1,400,000 F/H
Fantastic four double bedroom, four bathroom family home set in a secluded, idyllic cul-de-sac of just nine houses in Shirley Hills. • Four Double Bedrooms • Three Reception Rooms
• Swimming Pool • Energy Efficiency Rating C
Contact West Wickham 020 8432 7373
• • • •
Four Bedrooms Private Gated Close Approx. One Acre Energy Efficiency Rating C
Bromley BR1
£925,000 F/H
Ideally located for the local amenities of Sundridge Park Village is this stunning five bedroom Victorian semi detached family home. • Five Bedrooms • Stunning Condition
• Excellent Location • Energy Efficiency Rating F
Contact Bromley 020 8315 5544 A member of
The Acorn Group, incorporating:
langfordrussell.co.uk
THE TIME IS NOW R I V E R S I D E A PA RT M E N TS R E A DY TO M OV E I N
Agents
A development by
S TA R T I N G F R O M £ 1 , 8 0 0 , 0 0 0 +4 4 ( 0 ) 2 07 2 0 5 4 410 SOUTHBANKTOWER.COM
| PROPERTY |
DEVELOPMENT SHOWCASE
Bankside Living
R
ising 41 storeys above the River Thames is London’s latest residential address, South Bank Tower. Residents of the 193 superior apartments are ideally placed to enjoy the celebrated cultural attractions and fine dining of the South Bank, whilst also benefiting from five-star residents’ facilities and services, which offer the best in luxury living. Independent real estate firm, CIT, has unveiled a new collection of apartments which have been created by renowned design practices 1508 London, Goddard Littlefair, Studio Ashby and Rachel Winham. Inspired by world-class design inside and out, the new residences showcase high-rise living at its very best, in an unrivalled central riverside location.
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Ranging from lateral to duplex apartments, these new turnkey properties offer purchasers a chance to preview new vistas across the capital as well as appreciate ways in which homes can be dressed and life lived at South Bank Tower. The design visions capture the vibrancy, culture and artistic heritage of the South Bank, from 1508 London’s colour palette of rich emerald green velvet drawn from the building’s 1970s origins, through to Studio Ashby’s art-inspired, 24th-floor apartment with its strong lines mirroring those of the neighbouring architecture. Iconic London landmarks such as The Shard are reflected within Rachel Winham’s interiors, while the sunset views from
the west-facing, 36th-floor duplex have inspired Goddard Littlefair’s colour palette of rusts and ochres alongside grey, oyster and soft blues. Each apartment showcases the highest level of specification including wooden flooring, custom-made kitchens with marble splashbacks, hand-crafted joinery and state-of-the-art home automation systems, all of which represent CIT’s high standards of design and attention to detail which can be found throughout South Bank Tower.
PRICES FROM £1,800,000
South Bank Tower, SE1 020 3267 1048 southbanktower.com
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MINUTES AWAY FROM OVAL AND KENNINGTON STATIONS IN ZONE 2 3 & 4 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES, AND 2 & 3 BEDROOM PENTHOUSE APARTMENTS, SELLING NOW
A collection of exclusive four storey townhouses and stunning penthouse apartments, set on the edge of Kennington Park. 3 bedroom townhouses from £1,375,000.
WWW.STAGNESPLACE.CO.UK 0333 0033 660 A development by
Images are CGI representations of St Agnes Place and St Agnes Place show home photography
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Available now 50 apartments designed with flair. Set amongst the new parks and gardens of King’s Cross. Starting from £725,000. Marketing Suite 14–15 Stable Street King’s Cross, N1C 4AB Monday to Friday 10:00am – 6:00pm Register your interest 020 7205 4246 fenmanhouse.co.uk
Visualisation of a living room in a two bedroom apartment at Fenman House
I n t h e h e a r t of t h e Gr eenwic h Penins ula New release of fabulous 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments in this iconic new building, at London’s favourite village
Prices from £410,000 AND they’re more affordable, thanks to London Help to Buy* • Superb architectural design • An ideal location surrounded by acres of parkland and waterways • Unbeatable transport connections, only 1 stop from Canary Wharf *London Help to Buy is subject to terms and conditions, please ask a Sales Consultant for more details. Prices and information correct at time of going to print. June 2016.
020 8305 2712 www.gmv.gb.com The Village Square, West Parkside, London SE10 0BD Marketing Suite and Show Apartments open daily 10am-5pm Greenwich Millennium Village is a joint venture between Countryside Properties and Taylor Wimpey in association with the Mayor of London.
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ST AM PA P D U ID* TY
STYLISH PENTHOUSE APARTMENTS IN WANDSWORTH FROM £885,000†
Moments from the river, parks, local shops and amenities Excellent transport links taking you to Waterloo in 15 minutes** Move into your new home now
cartersyard-sw18.com | 020 3369 8726
*On reservations taken before July 31st 2016 **Travel times sourced from TFL.gov.uk †Price correct at time of print
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YOUR V I E W. 130 YEA RS I N T H E M AK I NG . One Tower Bridge offers five-star living on the banks of the Thames. The luxury apartments and penthouses include a 24-hour Harrods concierge service and access to an on-site private health spa, gym and pool. High-end retail and fine dining is also on your doorstep.
Prices from ÂŁ1,475,000 For more information, call +44 (0)20 3797 1622 Sales & Marketing Suite and Showhome open daily from 10am to 6pm. Prices and details are correct at time of going to press and subject to apartment type and availability. Photography depicts view from One Tower Bridge and is indicative only.
www.onetowerbridge.co.uk Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies
Galliard_HC_City Mag_FPC 20/06/2016 14:21 Page 1
Come up and see us some time 250 feet above Canary Wharf at our tropical winter garden party
MAINE TOWER
TO
HARBOUR CENTRAL MILLHARBOUR E14
Spectacular 1, 2 & 3 bed apartments. Breathtaking panoramic views.
PREVIEW THE REAL HEIGHT OF LUXURY LONDON LIVING!
Join us from 5.30 - 8.30pm.
Thursday 14th July For champagne, summer canapés, dazzling views & the opportunity to
RESERVE AN APARTMENT FROM £699,000 WITH SERIOUS SAVINGS ON THE NIGHT ONLY Venue: Lincoln Plaza, Level 22 Millharbour E14
Interior design by Nicola Fontanella of Argent Design. Opulent double height reception foyer. Private cinema, club lounge and champagne bar. Health spa, gym & pilates fitness studio.
GALLIARD IN JOINT VENTURE WITH
There will be limited admission to this unique evening please call or click to book now APPOINTED SELLING AGENTS
APPOINTED LETTING AGENTS
CENTRAL SALES 020 3770 2114 harbourcentral.com/city
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO a breath of fresh air From a rooftop terrace with river views to a wildflower garden and landscaped squares, these three London investment opportunties tick all the boxes for outdoor as well as indoor space
St John’s Way St John’s Way is a large multi-phase development and forms part of Peabody’s St John’s Hill regeneration project in Battersea. Designed by architects Hawkins/Brown, the buildings comprise 528 new homes with one-, two-, threeand four-bedroom apartments and houses, while the adjoining 13,600 sq m of communal and commercial space
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will feature art installations, children’s play areas, a new public square and a wildflower garden. Clapham Common and Wandsworth Common, as well as Battersea Park, are also nearby. The spacious interiors of the apartments, which have varied layouts to suit different tastes and come with a balcony or private garden, have underfloor heating throughout, oak
timber flooring in living areas and come with fully-fitted kitchens with integrated appliances. Solar panels will also serve the development and should go some way towards reducing residents’ energy bills. St John’s Way, SW11 from £690,000 for a two-bedroom apartment 020 3151 4867 stjohnswaysw11.co.uk
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| PROPERTY |
Wapping Riverside Galliard Homes has launched a brand new show apartment to showcase the design of the final phase of its Wapping Riverside development. The overall scheme has 31 apartments with ten forming this final phase, including the show apartment which is for sale. Designed by Nicola Fontanella of Argent, its nautical blue and cream shades and reflective surfaces reflect the development’s riverside location, while studded leather and bronze stand as a reminder of the listed building’s former use as a Victorian tea and coffee warehouse. The show apartment also boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, SMEG appliances and English Oak timber flooring. On top of the five storey building, a landscaped communal rooftop area with seating provides excellent views of the Thames, and Wapping Station is conveniently located a short distance from the development. Wapping Riverside, E1W from £1,300,000 for a two-bedroom apartment 020 3770 2136 galliardhomes.com
Chiswick Gate Inspired by London’s classic residential squares, the properties at Berkeley Homes’ Chiswick Gate development will enjoy views over the beautifully landscaped, pedestrianised boulevard or the lush garden square, which form the heart of this new community. “For many people the outside space of a home is just as important as the living space inside, especially for buyers in London,” says Tim Pettman, sales director at Berkeley Homes West London. The properties also boast private outdoor spaces, from generous balconies and terraces to private lawns and sunken courtyard gardens in selected homes. The three-, four- and five-bedroom townhouses exude character and style with an elegant mix of classical features, such as delicate cornicing, impressive staircases, and charming sash windows with Portland stone sills. As well as these larger properties, a select number of spacious one-, two- and threebedroom apartments and two- and three-bedroom penthouses are also available to purchase. Paying homage to the history of the site – which was formerly occupied by the Cherry Blossom shoe polish factory – the apartments’ warehouse-style design is reflected by expanses of floor-to-ceiling glazing and the imaginative interiors, which provide large, modern and flexible living spaces. Residents will also enjoy a gym and concierge service. Chiswick Gate, W4 from £749,950 for a two-bedroom apartment 020 3411 8602 chiswickgate.co.uk
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| PROPERTY |
Insider Knowledge
GETTING ONTO THE HOUSING LADDER Diana Alam, Head of Residential Development Sales, JLL
IMAGE Ileana BT
To what extent will the implementation of the Starter Home policy address the increasing disparity between house price and wage growth? The goalposts have been shifting for wouldbe first-time buyers over several years, with house price growth outstripping wage growth by a ratio of five to one in some parts of the UK. The Government’s Starter Homes policy unveiled last November will make it easier for aspiring homeowners to get on the ladder by restricting the effects of this disparity. Crucially, Starter Homes will be capped at £450,000 in London and £250,000 outside the capital, ensuring the target remains the same for an aspiring homeowner saving for their first purchase. JLL research shows that by constraining price growth, a couple in their 20s and early 30s would be able to save to buy a maximum priced Starter Home in less than half the number of years it would take to buy the current average-priced first-time buyer home. Who will benefit most from the forthcoming policy? Starter Homes are available to first-time buyers who are at least 23 years of age,
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but under the age of 40. They are most likely to benefit working people in the ‘squeezed middle’ or ‘generation rent’ who are ineligible for affordable housing, but currently unable to buy a home. They’re likely to be couples without children who have higher than average salaries and good savings already in place. Analysis by Shelter suggests a purchaser of a London Starter Home would need an income of £77,000 and a deposit of £98,000. The policy is therefore only likely to support the needs of a relatively small population in the capital. Can you identify any shortcomings in the forthcoming policy? And how may it be amended for great impact? The Starter Homes policy is the Government’s flagship affordable housing solution, with the target of delivering 200,000 Starter Homes over the course of this Parliament. However, the biggest shortcoming with the policy is that the homes delivered under the policy will revert to full market value after a period of circa eight to ten years. That’s fundamentally wrong – it should remain a market discounted product. It should
be delivered in perpetuity. Unfortunately that possibility has been ruled out by the Government. Given this, Starter Homes should remain affordable housing units for as long as possible – at least ten years with a tapered approach to the sale of the property between years five and ten. This would be a more robust approach and would reduce the risk of a peak in sales and market distortion at a particular point in time. What advice do you have for those wishing to take advantage of the forthcoming policy? Starter Homes have already received large levels of interest, so aspiring purchasers should register their intent on the Government’s Starter Homes’ website as soon as possible. Following registration, prospective buyers will receive updates on schemes local to them as well as any other locations they have expressed interest in. It is likely that a lot of Starter Homes will be built in regeneration areas, and it’s likely they will gentrify quickly if Starter Homes can attract a lot of emotionally invested, high-earning first-time buyers to that location.
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M EA N D E R A LO N G T H E T H A M E S
Computer generated image of the Courtyard
Chiswick House, 5 minutes walk
River Thames, a short walk away
Heathrow, 23 minutes drive
ONLY SIX APARTMENTS REMAIN IN PHASE ONE AT CHISWICK GATE Set around formal gardens and a landscaped courtyard these final remaining two bedroom apartments feature balconies which further extend the spacious, open plan living areas and allow residents to enjoy Chiswick Gate’s tranquil setting.
Prices starting from ÂŁ749,950 For more information please call our Sales Consultants on 020 3797 4008 or visit www.chiswick-gate.co.uk Photography and computer generated images are indicative only. All times are based on travelling from Chiswick Gate and act as an estimate only. Sources: www.tfl.gov.uk and Google maps. Prices and details correct at time of print.
Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies
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