The City Magazine October 2011 by Runwild Media Group

the city m a g a z i n e

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collection men’s luxury

contents

feature

12 Rich Pickings

B usiness mogul Sir Richard Branson talks about space, fitness and his plans to set the sporting world alight

going

GLOBAL A stylish capsule wardrobe and an effective mobile office are essential investments for the frequent flyer

16 Presenting… Sir Ranulph Fiennes

R ichard Brown discovers what makes Sir Ranulph one of the most daring explorers of the last 50 years

collection 24 A Tribute to Elegance

1 Starwalker black Mystery fountain pen, £390, Montblanc, 10 The Royal Exchange 2 Hand-held iPod dock, £280, Marantz, available at Harrods and Selfridges 3 El Primero Chronomaster interview feature www.shoebuy.com 5 Kindle 3G + WiFi Open £5300, Zenith at Watches of Switzerland, 22 The Royal Exchange 4 Split-sole foldable leather loafer with stuff-bag, £100, Redfoot Man at Shoebuy, £152, Amazon, www.amazon.co.uk 6 R1 Deluxe tabletop radio, £179.99, Vita Audio at House of Fraser, Canon Street 7 Round meteorite cufflinks in 18 carat white gold with blue goldstone £3,350, William & Son, www.williamandson.com 8 Sudoku and Solitaire, black cape grained hide lined with deep green, £850, William & Son, as before9 Red-Eye crease-free garment carry-on £250, LAT56° at Buziness Class, 117 Newgate Street

Rich

PICKINGS With plans to kite-surf in the Olympics and to establish the first intergalactic space triathlon, Sir Richard Branson is, as always, setting his sights even higher. Stephen Milton meets the man in question

L utz Bethge tells Annabel Harrison about Montblanc’s new Princess Grace of Monaco Collection

here’s something so approachable about Sir Richard Branson that it almost doesn’t add up. Considering his reported amassed fortune of £2.6 billion equals the GDI (Gross Domestic Income) of several small nations, combined, the intimidation factor, for one, is completely absent. Encountering the fifth wealthiest man in the UK, it’s surprising to meet a billionaire who seems to have retained the values, ideals and personable humour of a modest, grounded upbringing. Even when fire recently reduced his lavish Caribbean mansion on Necker Island to smouldering tinder, Branson’s immediate response was to tell the world’s press how he jumped out of bed – stark naked – to raise the alarm, only to charge, somewhat humiliatingly, straight into a cactus bush. It was a typified response for a mogul whose open, somewhat over-energetic manner has been testament, and indeed, a contributing factor, to his astonishing success. “I’ve always said that you are who you are,” he begins. “Success and money shouldn’t change how you speak to people. I know for some it does but I also believe that some people we might deem high-profile would be rude

comment 46 Your Olympic Experience

A ndrew Burton, CEO of Prestige Ticketing, explains the role his company will play in the imminent London 2012 Games

whether they were wealthy or not.” The son of a respected barrister and air hostess, Branson’s poor academic performance at school – a result of crippling dyslexia – bolstered his drive to succeed beyond the scholastic boundaries. At 16, he made his first ripple in the business world, setting up The Student magazine, after failed attempts to garner profit from selling Christmas trees and breeding budgerigars. Branson developed a voracious appetite for success and turned his attention to the music industry, where he hit upon the notion of selling popular vinyl records by mail order for a fraction of the price of high street retailers. Overnight, an empire was conceived and, as the looming downturn of the 1980s settled itself, casting a black shadow over most, in true, signature Branson style, the decade became his most successful, thanks in no small part to the launch of the Virgin Atlantic airline. “Fortunes are made out of recessions,” he wisely explains. “A lot of entrepreneurs get going in the economic depths because the barriers to entry are lower. It was the same back then, and it’s the same now.

interview

collection interview

calibre

A Tribute to

62 All-Action Hero

Elegance

C EO Tony Martin explains why his company’s Extreme World Races are not for the faint-hearted

After attending a spectacular lyrical performance at the Opera Monte Carlo and a glamorous gala dinner at Hotel de Paris to launch the Princess Grace of Monaco Collection, Annabel Harrison meets Montblanc’s charming CEO Lutz Bethge

“I

concierge

88 Black Orchid L ucie Dodds presents Tom Ford’s latest womenswear collection

connoisseur 112 Magical Morocco

Morocco’s delights are in easy reach for

travellers this winter

think women can do anything they decide to

do.” So declared Grace Kelly, who, in her lifetime, achieved all she set out to accomplish: beginning her career as an actress, she transformed, on a global stage, into the epitome of elegance; an adored princess, an adoring mother and an ardent philanthropist. Initially known worldwide as the darling of Hollywood, she transcended film aristocracy to become true royalty, marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco and becoming Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco. Princess Grace was not only one of the foremost talents of her generation and unequivocally beautiful – for many, the most beautiful woman who had ever lived – but she was also a role model to millions, and with this talent and beauty came a charismatic, charming, philanthropic demeanour; “I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds and who was a kind and loving person. I would like to leave the memory of a human being with the correct attitude and who did her best to help others.” With this aim in mind, the Princess of Monaco carried out her duties with the same commitment and discipline that she had displayed during her acting career, encouraging many emerging artists

86 Dressed to the Nines D ave Waddell speaks to Mark Lord about modern-day tailoring, costume-making and why he loves a good waistcoat

collection

to pursue their dreams. Princess Grace’s lifetime commitment to the arts lives on by means of the Princess Grace Foundation-USA, which provides financial assistance and moral encouragement for the pursuit of artistic excellence. Similarly, Montblanc promotes cultural diversity and education, and among its brand values are listed uniqueness, legacy and individuality, qualities it shares with the Princess. Thus it strikes me as entirely appropriate that Montblanc has created an exquisite collection of timepieces, writing instruments and items of jewellery, all of which pay tribute to Princess Grace’s “unprecedented elegance”. After all, the company “consciously takes time for the things that are really important – for people and ideas, for thoughts and feelings, for beauty and culture”, a sentiment which would undoubtedly have rung true for Princess Grace too. The Collection was launched in Monaco on 8 September at a glittering event attended by H.S.H. Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, as well as Eva Herzigova, Naomi Watts, Daryl Hannah, Jerry Hall and Olivia Palermo, and guests took the opportunity to dress up in respect to the Princess’s timeless style. Every piece in the collection is embellished with filigree petal cut

Howell Conant - Bob Adelman Books, Inc

regulars 11 editor’s letter

103 health & fitness

19 watches & jewellery

107 travel

69 sport

119 food & drink

85 fashion

122 out & about

97 interiors

125 property

45 PARK LANE THE HOTEL

CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK

55265_011DORCHESTER_City_Oct.indd Pg1 Mundocom UK

21/09/2011 15:56

contributors...

RUNWILD M

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Editor

Annabel Harrison

Fashion Editor 1. Chelsey Baker is a business advisor and life

coach, she has been featured extensively in the national media as a leading entrepreneur and runs her own consultancy firm Success Media. Chelsey is a freelance journalist and motivational speaker.

2. David Kuo is one of the UK’s leading

Lucie Dodds

Motoring Editor Matthew Carter

Assistant Editors Richard Brown Gabrielle Lane

commentators on money matters. He is a director at The Motley Fool as well as providing daily insight and financial news for BBC London’s Breakfast Show.

Editorial Assistant

3. Matthew Carter is a London-based freelance journalist who’s been writing about cars for most of his working life. A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner.

Hiren Chandarana

4. Martin Bamford is one of the youngest and most successful financial planners in the UK. He runs his own firm of financial advisers – Informed Choice – and regularly contributes to various financial publications.

5. Carol Cordrey is an art critic and editor

with popular columns in many magazines. Each year she organises sponsored art competitions offering attractive prize money and judged by distiguished artists.

6. Clare Murray is founder and managing partner of specialist law firm, CM Murray LLP. Clare and her colleagues advise a wide range of companies, professional firms and senior individuals on employment, partnership and business immigration law issues.

Olivia Sharpe

Head of Design Senior Designer Dalton Butler

Designer

Ashley Lewis

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Production

Hugo Wheatley

Senior Project Manager Ella Kilgarriff

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London E14 4JB T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 www.runwildmedia.com

Rich Pickings See p. 12 Neale Haynes / Contour by Getty Images

Runwild Media Group Publishers of: Canary Wharf, The City, Vantage & London Homes & Property

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscriptions: A free online subscription service is available for The City. Visit the subscriptions page on our website. www.subscribe.runwildmedia.com

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TP_CityMag_TP-RG_210x297_TP_CityMag_TP-RG_1Oct11 19.09.11 11:24 Page1

The Fusion between Ceramic, 18K Red Gold and Rubber.

For a list of Hublot stockists in the UK, please telephone 0207 343 7200 or e-mail info@timeproducts.co.uk Hublot TV on: www.hublot.com

from the editor...

October

get involved with things that interest me. It’s as simple as that. It was music when I was younger, then I flew a lot, so it became airlines, and so on.” How easy it sounds, to build a business empire based on what you find most interesting. Sir Richard Branson has spent the best part of four decades doing just this and, although he describes his career trajectory in a rather casual manner, this is indicative of his simultaneously laidback and energetic attitude. The entrepreneur has most significantly developed Virgin into one of the world’s most famous and diverse brands but he also has lofty plans to establish the first intergalactic space triathlon. Read our exclusive interview to find out how Branson is, as ever, setting his sights characteristically high (p. 12).

Olympic and Paralympic Games (p. 46) and the first piece in our Olympic Athletes series from Lee Brooks (p. 70) explores the chances of success for our young medal hopefuls, including diving boy wonder Tom Daley.

Following last month’s focus on fashion, we’re delving further into the fields of business, with Branson and Bloomberg (p. 48), and exploration. The legendary Sir Ranulph Fiennes (p. 16) may be 67 but the intrepid explorer, and prolific record-breaker, is showing no signs of slowing down. If Sir Ranulph’s adventurous attitude inspires you, read about Tony Martin’s Extreme World Races (p. 62) and consider taking on his epic challenges in the world’s most hostile environments. If they’re just too extreme, Matthew Carter goes for a safer spin, or three, on our behalf, testing out the Mercedes C63 AMG Coupé (p. 74), Maserati’s Kubang (p. 76) and BMW’s 650i SE Convertible (p. 78).

Last month, I travelled to Monaco to attend the launch of Montblanc’s exquisite ‘Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco’ and met the company’s charming CEO Lutz Bethge, who explained why they chose to pay such a beautiful, thoughtful tribute to Princess Grace (p. 24). Princess Grace once said; “I think it is right to honour all those who create beautiful things and give satisfaction to those who see me wearing them.” I am sure Montblanc will be praised for its creations and also that those who own the pieces will delight in them as much as Princess Grace would have done.

Prestige Ticketing is directing all of its attention towards 2012; Richard Brown speaks to CEO Andrew Burton about its official on-site hospitality packages for the London 2012

This month we are pleased to mark two decades of the iconic Canary Wharf development with a special 20th anniversary supplement; from humble beginnings to a towering 21st century metropolis, find out how Canary Wharf grew up. As former Environment Secretary Lord Heseltine, who was the architect of Development Corporations in Liverpool and Docklands in the early 80s, observed; “this is the most exciting example of urban renaissance in this country, and I believe, the world.”

Annabel Harrison Editor

Rich

Pickings With plans to kite-surf in the Olympics and to establish the first intergalactic space triathlon, Sir Richard Branson is, as always, setting his sights even higher. Stephen Milton meets the man in question

interview

feature

feature interview

Fortunes are made out of recessions. A lot of entrepreneurs get going in the economic depths because the barriers to entry are lower “For anyone looking to set up these days, there’s no better time. My slogan is ‘Screw it, just do it’, and if you get great people around you, a small team of really committed people who you can work with on whatever you’re doing, then that’s important.” Branson bulldozed into the early ‘90s, launching further expansions into transport with Virgin Trains and exploring unchartered territory in communications and health and fitness with Virgin Mobile and Virgin Active. The choices and processes leading to such multi-directional Virgin expansion are proof of Branson always sticking to the same rule; “I get involved with things that interest me. It’s as simple as that. It was music when I was younger, then I flew a lot, so it became airlines, and so on.” With the sale of Virgin Records to EMI, a milestone event that he admits reduced him to tears, Branson’s focus has changed over the years. Now he is leaning towards the modern fitness revolution. “Health is everything in life, isn’t it? If you’re fit and healthy, you can achieve anything. If you’re not then everything else suffers, so fitness is critical.” Armed with this mantra, the mogul established the first of his Virgin Active clubs in South Africa in 1998, leading to subsequent expansion into the UK, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Australia. “Whenever we do anything in business, we try to make sure that we’re the best in that particular area. For us, Virgin Active is a great quality product with good value. We’ve become the preeminent health club chain in the UK and around the world – that’s impressive.” He adds: “I think that Britain is becoming almost sports mad. I ran in the London Marathon last year and just to have half a million people out on the streets supporting you is fantastic. There are an incredible number of participants in that. The Virgin Active London Triathlon has been a similar experience, and of course, we have the London 2012 Olympics coming up. I’m nervous to say it, but I do believe we’re becoming a nation of ‘fitties’!” So for a fitness fanatic like Branson, who recently competed in that inaugural Virgin Active London Triathlon in July, what sport would he compete in at the Games, given the choice? “I’ve been campaigning to get kite surfing into the Olympics. It’s my favourite sport because it’s skilful and looks great. So if we can get that in, then I’ll participate. I realise we might be leaving

it a bit late though,” he jokes. Does the sporting world offer up good role models for our nation and for Branson himself? “Seb Coe is somebody I have great respect for and we speak frequently,” Branson replies. “Viv Richards and Ian Botham are others who have been really inspirational. I think it’s important to pick out these role models, because everyone needs them. “Look at what Steve Jobs achieved, for instance. He is undoubtedly the entrepreneur I most look up to. I think what he’s created with Apple is incredible. It’s a tremendous brand, of great quality and with incredible innovation. I can’t think of anybody who beats Steve – and I certainly can’t imagine who will now fill his shoes.” Jobs would certainly be impressed with Branson’s ability to embrace social media. He recently topped 1.3 million followers on Twitter, surpassing by some distance Lord Sugar’s tally. A feat to be proud of, surely? “It’s interesting because I didn’t get that involved with Twitter until I realised that I had more than a million people following me! So I now take a personal interest in it and make sure everything that goes up I’m involved with or write myself. “I love what Twitter represents, because it complements this era we’re in, where people are deciding it’s time to make the unknown accessible to the public. Computers are only really the start of this; I think we need to conquer the depths of the ocean too and maybe we can get a space triathlon up and running one day?” he suggests, without even a hint of humour. “Why not?” For anyone else, sub-orbital space flights, space triathlons for the paying public and deep-sea exploration would sound like lofty, unattainable dreams. For Sir Richard Branson, it’s just another day at the office. n

Christopher Parypa / Shutterstock.com

Presenting…

Sir Ranulph Fiennes Richard Brown meets Sir Ranulph Fiennes – the legendary, record-setting, ex-SAS explorer who, at 67, is showing no signs of slowing down

ith which titbit of trivia do you introduce an interview with Sir Ranulph Fiennes? Perhaps with the fact that he was the first man in history to visit both the North and South Poles on foot? Or maybe with the detail that two years ago, at the age of 65, he became the oldest Britain to reach the summit of Mount Everest? Then again, there’s always the story about him removing his own frostbitten fingertips with a hacksaw in his garden shed. That particular episode was the product of a failed attempt to walk unsupported to the North Pole. When Sir Ranulph’s sleds fell through thin ice, he was forced to pull them out by hand. The resultant frostbite required that the affected fingertips be amputated but, a month before the scheduled surgery, and frustrated by the pain of his throbbing fingertips, Sir Ranulph did what any right-minded individual would not have done – he took to the tool shed. Similar tales litter the life story of the man considered by the Guinness Book of World Records to be the greatest living explorer. With this accolade in mind – and speaking to Sir Ranulph minutes before The Standard Chartered Great City Race – I asked him whether it’s possible to be a truly pioneering explorer in the 21st century. “It wouldn’t have been for me,” he says, “but it is for a handful of people. Very few will explore space for obvious reasons – well, usefully explore it anyway, I don’t mean commercially spend a million quid to go up and down – and even fewer will explore the 80 per cent of the world’s oceans that haven’t been visited yet. But there is still room for ‘ologists’ to explore and discover things.” He cites botanists as a good example. “They can go into a Brazilian jungle, even to somewhere where botanists have been before, but go there with the abilities afforded by this century. With 21st century knowledge and 21st century instruments, they can find new medicines and new remedies from the same flowers and plants. That is pioneering. That is exploration.” Today, that is what Sir Ranulph is best known for: exploration. But is ‘explorer’ the occupational box that the Eton-educated, ex-SAS member has ticked on the last four censuses? “Well, in actual fact, for the last 40 years my passport has said that I’m a travel writer,” Sir Ranulph quips. Indeed, the title ‘explorer’ is one that he is quick to rationalise; he has already told me that he abhors the

term ‘adventurer’, clarifying that his team “do not do adventures; we do world firsts.” Sir Ranulph does class one of his exploits as “true exploration” though; an expedition that helped map a huge area of Antarctica at a time prior to when satellites could do it for us. “That,” says Sir Ranulph, “is using the word ‘explorer’ in the correct sense.” Of course, exploring polar landscapes isn’t a line of work you tend to fall into. For Sir Ranulph, the seeds of an extraordinary life were sown from an early age, before he was born. The young Ranulph Fiennes arrived in the world in March 1944, shortly after his father, Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Ranulph Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes, had died during the Second World War. Fiennes admits that his whole aim in life was to do what his father had been doing before he died: commanding what was to his son the greatest regiment in history, the Royal Scots Greys. “My father was in charge of the regiment during the war and that was what I aimed to do for 24 years until I realised that, because I hadn’t got maths A-Level, and therefore couldn’t go to Sandhurst, I would never have been able to make the post. I would have constantly been jumped by Sandhurst officers.” Sir Ranulph did serve in the Royal Scots Greys but never as a commanding officer, and after eight years in the regiment he was seconded to the SAS – later to be discharged when, offended by a concrete dam built by 20th Century Fox in one of England’s prettiest villages, he used army explosives to demolish the construction. He was later posted to the army of the Sultan of Oman where he commanded the Reconnaissance Platoon of the Muscat Regiment, earning himself the Sultan’s Bravery Medal. Having served the forces so actively, Sir Ranulph was unlikely to settle for a quiet existence once his military career came to an end. In 1969 he led a hovercraft expedition up Africa’s White Nile before a similar expedition on Norway’s Jostedalsbreen Glacier the following year. In the ensuing decades he would journey the globe around its polar axis, cross both Antarctica and the Arctic Ocean, manage the first unsupported crossing of the Antarctic continent and record the longest unsupported polar journey in history. Showing no signs of slowing up, the man who in 2007 was voted 94th in The Daily Telegraph’s Top 100 living

interview

geniuses, has more recently climbed the Eiger by its infamous North Face, and completed the inconceivable task of running seven marathons on seven continents in seven days – four months after suffering a heart attack. Much of what Sir Ranulph has accomplished in life has been achieved in aid of charity, a fact that in 1993 saw him appointed OBE. Earlier this year, online fundraising company Just Giving awarded Sir Ranulph the accolade of Top 2010 UK Individual Fund Raiser for the £6.3 million he raised for Marie Curie. To put that into perspective, the individuals that came second and third were Dragons’ Den star Peter Jones with £100,000, and Lawrence Dallaglio with £78,000. Sir Ranulph is now a patron of Seeing is Believing, a global initiative set up to help tackle avoidable blindness. “When a child in this country can’t read because they need spectacles, they can get some off the NHS. But there are hundreds of thousands of children around the world who can’t get an education because they can’t afford spectacles. Therefore their household and families aren’t going to earn as good a living as they could. It creates a ripple effect that spreads through life. For just £9, Seeing is Believing can alleviate a person from the doom and gloom of not being

feature

Above: Sir Ranulph Fiennes Right: Runners streaming through the start line of The Standard Chartered Great City Race

able to read. How much more effective can nine quid be?” What does someone who’s literally travelled to the ends of the earth do next? “The polar expeditions that have proven so difficult that no one has been able to do them,” he says, as if the answer is manifest. “We’ve been plotting the ‘big one’ for a while now.” n www.seeingisbelieving.org.uk/home

interview watches jewellery

montblanc extreme sports ................... losing my religion ...............................................................

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

Extreme Survivor

Audemars Piguet broke boundaries when it released the Royal Oak Offshore collection. Then the Survivor came along and took things to a new extreme

he rise of the oversized wristwatch has been monumental and the success of many brands can now be solely attributed to the popularity of boldly dimensions. While others have followed suit, Audemars Piguet first catalysed the revolution with its Royal Oak Offshore collection. Launched nearly 20 years ago and designed with extreme sports in mind, the models pushed the boundaries of both luxury and size, employing advanced materials, such as carbon fibre and rubber, that had seldom been seen in watchmaking before. Two years ago, Audemars Piguet gave us

the Royal Oak Offshore Survivor, a testosteronefuelled monster of a timepiece that remains one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most resilient wristwatches and was limited to production of just 1,000. The immediately recognisable hexagonal bezel remains. What has been added is a matte black dial with a gridded face and push-buttonÂ guard pieces which, like the new case and crown, are made of brushed-finished, blackened titanium. Thanks to ultra-light yet highly resistant materials that adjust to the body temperature of its wearer, this watch has been engineered to confront the most extreme of environments. n

watches

collection

Three of the Best for…

watches

EXTREME SPORTS

news Richemont wins counterfeit case Luxury goods super-company Richemont won a $37.4 million court judgement last month when New York jeweller Daniel Markus Inc. was discovered to be selling counterfeit Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels pieces as authentic products. Richemont had learnt of the counterfeiting scheme six months earlier: Newark-based Daniel Markus was manufacturing fakes out of its studio in the city’s Diamond District before selling them with forged certificates of authenticity. New Jersey District Judge Jose Linares awarded the settlement after Richemont made a claim for unfair competition, trademark infringement and trademark dilution. Last year Richemont reported annual revenues of £6,040 million for the 12 months ending 31 March 2011, an increase of 33 per cent from 2010.

RM 011 LMC Felipe Massa titanium front Richard Mille, POA marcus, 170 new bond street

King Power 48mm Oceanographic 4000 Hublot, POA marcus, 170 new bond street

One to Watch: This month, Lyndon Jarvis, Manager at Watches of Switzerland in The Royal Exchange, selects his favourite watch from the newest models

“Whether worn in the boardroom or on your surfboard, the union of blue ceramics and liquidmetal® in the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean give the watch a truly stunning appearance.” Seamaster Planet Ocean 45.50 mm Titanium Liquidmetal® Chronograph, £5,100, Omega Available at Watches of Switzerland, 22 The Royal Exchange

U-51 Green Chrono U-BOAT, £9,000 available at harrods, Selfridges and all Time2 stores

collection men’s luxury

4 5

going

GLOBAL A stylish capsule wardrobe and an effective mobile office are essential investments for the frequent flyer

7 9

1 Starwalker black Mystery fountain pen, £390, Montblanc, 10 The Royal Exchange 2 Hand-held iPod dock, £280, Marantz, available at Harrods and Selfridges 3 El Primero Chronomaster Open £5300, Zenith at Watches of Switzerland, 22 The Royal Exchange 4 Split-sole foldable leather loafer with stuff-bag, £100, Redfoot Man at Shoebuy, www.shoebuy.com 5 Kindle 3G + WiFi £152, Amazon, www.amazon.co.uk 6 R1 Deluxe tabletop radio, £179.99, Vita Audio at House of Fraser, Canon Street 7 Round meteorite cufflinks in 18 carat white gold with blue goldstone £3,350, William & Son, www.williamandson.com 8 Sudoku and Solitaire, black cape grained hide lined with deep green, £850, William & Son, as before9 Red-Eye crease-free garment carry-on £250, LAT56° at Buziness Class, 117 Newgate Street

collection interview

A Tribute to

Elegance After attending a spectacular lyrical performance at the Opera Monte Carlo and a glamorous gala dinner at Hotel de Paris to launch the Princess Grace of Monaco Collection, Annabel Harrison meets Montblanc’s charming CEO Lutz Bethge

“I

think women can do anything they decide to do.” So declared Grace

Kelly, who, in her lifetime, achieved all she set out to accomplish: beginning her career as an actress, she transformed, on a global stage, into the epitome of elegance; an adored princess, an adoring mother and an ardent philanthropist. Initially known worldwide as the darling of Hollywood, she transcended film aristocracy to become true royalty, marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco and becoming Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco. Princess Grace was not only one of the foremost talents of her generation and unequivocally beautiful – for many, the most beautiful woman who had ever lived – but she was also a role model to millions, and with this talent and beauty came a charismatic, charming, philanthropic demeanour; “I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds and who was a kind and loving person. I would like to leave the memory of a human being with the correct attitude and who did her best to help others.” With this aim in mind, the Princess of Monaco carried out her duties with the same commitment and discipline that she had displayed during her acting career, encouraging many emerging artists

interview

collection

Howell Conant - Bob Adelman Books, Inc

Uniqueness Culture

Above: Watch in red gold with baguette and round diamonds, one pink drop sapphire and one Montblanc diamond. Limited to eight pieces

stones to honour the Grace de Monaco pink rose, created in 1956 on the occasion of her Royal Wedding, which garnered worldwide attention and adoration. Pale pink roses filled the whole venue to tie in with this emblem, infusing the collection with softness and prettiness. “There were a lot of memories to take back home last night”, Montblanc CEO Lutz Bethge tells me proudly, when we meet after the launch. “We wanted to pay tribute to a great princess and a great style icon and I think it was wonderful... When I was speaking to Prince Albert afterwards, he said he had seen glimpses of the video Bob [Robert Wilson, the director of the tribute performance at the launch event] used of his mother, but he had never seen the full version. He was very touched.” Bethge is immaculately dressed and impeccably mannered, as befits a brand which has built itself around stylish, sophisticated products. It strikes me again and again during our conversation that Montblanc often pays more attention to detail than consumers, at least those without a passionate interest in a product’s development and design, would ever notice. The Princess Grace Collection, which has taken four years to develop, has taken inspiration from both personal family preferences and public facing royal insignia. Because the image of his mother in the black evening dress, opening white curtains, is Prince Albert’s favourite picture of his mother, “the Collection’s pen used the shape of the dress, as well as the Princess Grace ‘G’, the crown and the coat of arms”, Bethge explains: “We try to capture the spirit of people in our writing instruments, to romance these objects.” Montblanc once created a John Lennon pen and it provoked a fierce emotional response: “People said, ‘I never thought about buying a pen but this John Lennon pen, I must have!’ This is what I’m talking about – this passion and creativity.” These are words Bethge used frequently; passion, pride and creativity are clearly qualities that for Bethge, and indeed Montblanc, are of paramount importance. “When you go to our factories, or when you talk to the people there,

Dedication you always feel they are extremely passionate about what they do.” This passion is a hallmark of any successful company and, although I was in Monaco to see the Princess Grace Collection, Montblanc is known worldwide for its beautiful, diverse portfolio of writing instruments, which inspire passion in their owners. Montblanc is deeply rooted in the culture of writing, the language of thought, and indeed, as Montblanc points out, “one of the oldest ways of giving expression to the human spirit.” Many people buy Montblanc pens, to celebrate reaching a certain level of success, or are given them to mark special occasions in their lives; Bethge still uses a Meisterstück he was given for his 21st birthday, “possibly the most famous and recognised writing instrument of our time”. I adore the fact that Mr Bethge often shuns the shorter, more mundane label ‘pen’, preferring to use the far more suitably elevated ‘writing instrument’. Bethge wasn’t initially sure about joining Montblanc, more than 20 years ago. He was pleased that the company was based in Hamburg, a city he liked, but what swung the decision was the head-hunter who approached him; “it was very rare for head-hunters to be so passionate about what the brand had achieved and what it wanted to achieve. Afterwards I met the CEO in Hamburg and I felt the same passion – I was spellbound.” One of the first things I asked Bethge was how he feels about the technology juggernaut of the 21st century, trampling the traditional methods of communication that stand in its path, paper giving way to e-documents, letters bowing to email and telegrams being replaced by texts. How can a company renowned for producing the definitive luxury writing instrument survive, if this modern steamroller removes all need for writing? Bethge has much to say on the matter. “First of all, I believe that the more high tech the world is, and the faster it is turning, the more people long for some grounding, things that are real. And certainly writing will never go away. You may send love emails or texts, or even break up by email or text message, but you won’t keep them in a wooden box with a ribbon round it. When someone writes to you by hand, they open up their personality to you. They are saying, ‘I really

What Montblanc has achieved, which is really unique, is to make writing instruments jewellery which happens to write

Creativity

Below: Fountain pen in solid gold, decorated with diamonds and rubies, clip embellished with drop-cut diamond, handcrafted gold nib. Limited to three pieces

Visions

Inspiration

Soul-makers

interview

collection

Individuality

Responsibility

Left: Necklace in white gold, diamonds, pink sapphires and Montblanc diamond

love and appreciate you’. Writing will always be in fashion, particularly in the computer age. What Montblanc has achieved, which is really unique, is to make writing instruments jewellery which happens to write.” When a company has the craftsmanship capabilities and design vision to create such jewellery-esque writing instruments, it seems that diversification is inevitable. However, for Bethge, branching out and becoming a “luxury maison” was the biggest challenge he faced; “people would say, ‘you make writing instruments – what is your qualification [to do other things]?’ Well, first of all, we’re strongly supported by our roots – we are craftsmen and we know how to work in fine mechanics. And we are passionate and determined and committed. When we started with watches, we really believed we could become one of the serious, true watch brands and today we are – nobody would doubt this any more. We do not want to be just a label.” The customers who appreciated the special jewellery-type craftsmanship expected no less of the watches, considering Montblanc as the pinnacle of excellence in writing instruments. Being the best of the best is conveyed by the company’s name, taken from Europe’s highest mountain, and its iconic white emblem, inspired by the permanently snow-capped summit with its six glacier tongues. In China, Montblanc’s biggest emerging market, Bethge points out that the middle classes are “becoming successful and want to show it, and that’s very easy with a Montblanc writing instrument. Show the star and this signifies a successful and cultural lifestyle – this is what the customer sees with our brand.” Brand continuity is very important to Bethge: “In the end a customer buys into a brand because he appreciates the creativity and he appreciates the design but also the values of the brand – ours is about timeless elegance, craftsmanship, quality. You always have to make sure that overall the customer knows this is the basis for everything – this is why he wants to buy it. If you become overly creative and leave the roots, which we have defined as timeless elegance, you may lose the customer.” The thread of continuity that runs through the product lines – whether pens, watches, jewellery, leather or eyewear – is that people have a sentimental attachment to

Innovation

their Montblanc possessions and use them for decades. “The general basis”, Bethge explains, “is that we create timeless pieces, ones that customers are proud to wear in ten, 20 years. In particular, I see this with people who love fashion – it’s for the moment. After a few months or a year, you say, ‘no good’. We provide the complementary product – you can have the latest fashion or the latest gadgets but something which you have received at an important moment – your wedding or graduation – holds good memories. It becomes a lifetime companion and you want to keep it forever – this is what customers are looking for.” What customers are looking for, however, has changed. Bethge weathered the recession with Montblanc and observed a shift in consumer preferences. He uses the expression “bling bling” to describe the trend before the 2008 financial crisis and considers this trend to have faded somewhat: “There are still many products around with lots of diamonds but the overt loudness we experienced pre-2008 is over – people went back to values which they felt were sustainable. They were looking for things that were special and different, and which they knew would last.” For some, this something special was the Montblanc Tourbillon Mysterieuse. Because watches take so long to bring to market, it happened to launch at the peak of the crisis in January 2009, not offering a “favourable mood” for Montblanc’s most expensive watch to date, at €200,000. However, the whole annual production sold in three months: “For me this was a very clear sign. Even in the crisis, when people were being careful with their money, they found something which was really creative, different and which they really appreciate.” As time runs out, I ask Mr Bethge what the best part of his job is and, once again, passion is paramount: “The biggest pleasure is to know that every year, and every month, you can make your customers go wild. That’s not me – that’s the craftsmen, the designers and everyone who has contributed to it. I share new products with the customers regularly and when they say ‘wow, how did you do this?’, well, you can’t buy that.” With more than a century of its history already written, Montblanc has much of its story yet to tell. n Montblanc, 10/11 Royal Exchange www.montblanc.com www.montblanc-tribute-to-grace.com

Legacy

P L E A S E E N J OY O U R C H A M PA G N E R E S P O N S I B LY DRINKAWARE .CO.UK

jewellery

collection

Our favourite three…

jewellery

news

lucky CHARMS

Swarovski Collective: Revealed Luxury jewellery brand Swarovski has divulged the key stars of its upcoming elite sponsorship programme Swarovski Collective for S/S12. Mary Katrantzou and Craig Lawrence are amongst the new design candidates who will be incorporating the brand’s sparkling jewels into their latest fashion collections. Familiar faces J.W. Anderson, Marios Schwab, Giles Deacon and Erdem are back once again thanks to their innovative use of Swarovski crystals. Last year, stunning contributions included Giles’ inspired pairing of statement neon colours with chandelier-draped Swarovski pearls, over sheer material, and Erdem designed dazzling floralprinted harlequin dresses, complete with vibrant Swarovski beading.

18 carat Gold Apple Tiffany & Co., £1,325 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange

Latin Cross Motif in White Gold with Diamonds Cartier, £5,800 cartier, 40-41 old bond street

Cutting Edge Luxury British jewellery designer Boodles wins our prize this October for housing our favourite piece this autumn

Reminiscent of ‘le coeur de la mer’ given to Rose in the epic film Titanic, the Heart’s Desire necklace is an exquisite piece from Boodles. With its crystal blue sapphires and dazzling diamonds, this necklace incorporates all of the essential characteristics for a luxury item; style, elegance, beauty and exclusivity boodles heart’s desire necklace price on application Boodles, 2/3 the courtyard, the royal exchange

Keep Me Safe Charm Astley Clarke Biography, £125 www.astleyclarke.com

collection jewellery

2 3

losing my

religion It’s all about masquerade and Gothic decadence this Hallowe’en. Square up to autumn with skulls, snakes, evil eyes and masks

10 8

1 Apollo pendant in rose gold, £320, Lara Bohinc at Selfridges, www.selfridges.com 2 Mistress Swarovski masquerade mask £1,597, Erickson Beamon, www.ericksonbeamon.com 3 Superstud dagger necklace with crystal haze grey cat’s eye, £405, Stephen Webster, 93 Mount Street 4 Skeleton earrings, £130, Vivienne Westwood at Selfridges, as before 5 Sterling silver and Italian crystal handed beaded bracelet on black cord, £360, Nialaya, www.nialaya.com 6 Blackened oxidized-silver eye brooch, £535, Bottega Veneta, www.NET-A-PORTER.COM 7 Leather and brass double-skull cuff, £295, Alexander McQueen, www.alexandermcqueen.com 8 Skeleton Cross necklace, £28,000, Theo Fennell, 4 The Courtyard, The Royal Exchange 9 Superstud black mother of pearl earrings, £450, Stephen Webster, as before 10 Underworld silver-plated Swarovski crystal ring, £350, Erickson Beamon, as before

12 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LR TEL: +44 (0) 20 3405 1437 EMAIL: bachet.london@bachet.fr www.bachet.fr

A gentleman’s bi-metal automatic Rolex OysterPerpetual Datejust bracelet watch circa 2009. With box and papers. Estimate £3,000 - £4,000 A gentleman’s 18k white gold automatic Breitling Cockpit bracelet watch. With presentation box and papers.

A gentleman’s stainless steel automatic chronograph Panerai Luminor Daylight wrist watch. With box and papers.

Estimate £12,000 - £18,000 Estimate £3,000 - £4,000

A gentleman’s stainless steel Breitling Navitimer wrist watch.

A gentleman’s stainless steel automatic Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean bracelet watch.

Estimate £800 - £1,200

Auction of Vintage & Modern Wrist Watches Monday 17th October 2011 at 10am Visit www.fellows.co.uk/thecity for a complimentary catalogue Augusta House | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham B18 6JA | Tel 0121 212 2131

current affairs

feature

London’s burning Bel Trew followed the London Riots in August as they happened and was on the ground to speak both to those involved and those affected

onday 8 August: Croydon, Hackney and Clapham are on fire. The rioting, which started in Tottenham on Saturday when a peaceful protest against the shooting of Mark Duggan turned violent, is spreading across London. The looters have just swept through my area, Bow; a few local stores are in ruins and one shop owner has been beaten up. The streets are deserted except for a group of hooded youths who are still hanging out on one of the targeted streets. There are no police, so I turn back quickly. The only pub that is open has its metal shutters down and is allowing its customers to smoke inside. As I knock on the door the proprietor says: “Only white faces... Good, you can come in”. What is going on? Footage from the riots showed youths with looted items screaming “**** the government” at news cameras. One rioter captured on a mobile said she was “getting her taxes back”, while another group of girls, who were found drinking the wine they had looted previously, said they were “showing the rich we do what we want” (BBC).

feature current affairs

The situation had come a long way from the group of local residents protesting a young man’s death. It had turned into a chaotic free-for-all with 11-year-olds carrying TVs out of shops and even businessmen grabbing phones and trainers on their way home. With no cohesive group or manifesto and no one talking, the riots were written off as mindless violence committed by thugs. The cause, David Cameron said, was a “slow motion moral collapse” stemming from bad parenting, schooling and a culture of “criminality”. I attended hearings at the Westminster courts and only two people were granted bail in two days. Those caught received heavy custodial sentences; one student was sent to jail for six months for stealing £3.50 worth of water from Lidl. Courts were working through the night. Journalists were stationed outside, desperate for interviews with anyone involved, to find out why they did it. I managed to find five rioters who risked being sent to jail to speak to me for the Evening Standard (The Boy Who Refused to Riot, 5 September). They claimed there were different groups with contrasting agendas out during those five days. Behind the violence, they maintained, there were real grievances that were being expressed. “I finally found a reason”, said Tyrone*, 17, to me for the article. “If we were to take an innocent person’s life, we’d be bought to justice but [the police] won’t. I was debating with my family, who tried to take the police’s side…. That is not the real truth, we know the truth.” They talked about Mark Duggan as a symbol for all the disaffected youth they hang out with, and the riots, they said, were about venting frustrations with the politicians and police. They separated themselves from the looters, half of whom they said were tempted opportunists and half of whom were organised criminals. They went as far as to identify themselves as ‘protesters’, whose only way of being heard was to become violent; “smashing stuff is acceptable”, confirmed Gregory, Tyrone’s friend as, he said, peaceful protesting is pointless. The ‘broadcasts’ (BBMs) the boys say were sent out and forwarded from Sunday through all of Monday, called for everyone to forget their backgrounds, to come out of their areas and meet at specified points. The messages talked about the end of the “reign of the police” and some mentioned Mark Duggan’s death. At first the boys thought it was a joke, as it seemed impossible for a BBM to transcend the postcode war. Despite not being in ‘criminal’ gangs, the boys said they are still bound by traditional gang rules: “We are separated by postcodes. If you go to someone else’s turf, their people will come and see what you’re saying.” The groups out that day were predominantly angry young adults, the boys said. They talked about being targeted by the police from the age of 11 years old for fitting the

stereotype, as a young black male. This means, they said, they are stopped and searched several times a day, often by the same officer. They talked about budget cuts and “no hope for the youth”. It is a little known fact, but the UK has one of the worst social mobility records in Europe, with four million children living in poverty. Margaret McCabe, director and founder of Debate Mate, who works with disaffected youth, identified similar key issues. “The riots were a direct consequence of cuts, especially the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA),” she explains. “The government made a policy error in thinking that the EMA wasn’t needed any more because most kids stayed on at school”. As Margaret explains, the government cut the EMA believing that the financial shortfall could be plugged by continuing the parent’s entitlement to child benefits until they were 18. Effectively, the government relies on parents sharing their child benefits with their kids instead of paying the children directly. “This is an error. For families who live below the poverty line, that money is committed elsewhere; they need it for food.” Gregory pointed out to me that he can’t afford his school books for college. With university fees skyrocketing, there are no incentives for kids to stay on at school past 16 and there are no jobs if they do leave. “The problems have been building up. If you’re born with no hope, frustration, anger and discontentment breed. So the shooting of Mark Duggan was like putting a match to a tinder box,” Margaret explained. To Margaret, the politicians don’t appear to understand the riots: “There is a disconnect from both sides. The problem is poverty is invisible in this country. You don’t realise it unless it impacts you in the form of a crime”. Certainly, I live in an area with one of London’s most violent gangs, the E3 Bloods, yet Danny Boyle lives opposite me. Take Islington; this smart and wealthy banker area has the second highest child poverty rate in Europe. Margaret adds: “Young people need skills to get out of poverty. If we blame parenting and schooling this will cost billions to turn around; there has to be a more pragmatic way of dealing with it. At Debate Mate we tried to find a cost effective way of doing that, with something you could bolt on to the curriculum – we came up with debating. Peer-to-peer mentoring and teaching verbal intelligence has proved to be successful.” The behaviour of the rioters and looters was criminal, unjustified and wrong and those responsible should be punished. However, it is important, and not mutually exclusive to this punishment, to recognise that these social problems do exist and contributed to the outburst of violence. We should not allow the riots to encourage further prejudice against racial minorities or to widen the class gap. Those caught are receiving considerably longer custodial sentences for their crimes because their actions were committed in the background of public disorder, but how can sending a student to jail for six months for stealing some water help? We need to be less reactive and go back to the roots of the problem. More programmes like Debate Mate are needed to supplement the shortfalls of our education system – to ensure that the disaffected youth realise that where you were born doesn’t dictate your whole life. Perhaps if we can help the rioters truly recognise this, London won’t burn again. n www.debatemate.com *All names have been changed

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Hulsta_C-Wharf_City_Oct11.indd 1

16/09/2011 13:30

BROADGaTE events For those in and around Broadgate, October offers fresh, seasonal produce ahead of more wintery months in the form of the Farmers’ Market and Centrepoint gears up for its annual fundraising event, Sleep Out. Excitingly, the Broadgate Ice Rink also returns so it’s time to get your skates back on

Broadgate Ice Rink London’s premier outdoor ice rink will return from late October 2011. Set in the heart of the financial capital of the world, the unique rink is 22 metres in diameter and open to all ages seven days a week (apart from Christmas Day). Broadgate Ice Rink is also the only outdoor rink in London where you can just turn up and skate. To request a leaflet email arena@broadgateestates.co.uk

BROADGATEpromotion

have some challenging ideas for the sleepers up their sleeves. Plans are still top secret but Centrepoint has been promised some fun team tasks, mirroring real life in the Forces. Not only will it bring people together on the night but it will also inject some competitive spirit. There is also talk of a field kitchen being set up to provide hot soups and stews. Centrepoint’s Head of Fundraising, John Raynham, said it was great to have the Royal Navy and RAF onboard. ‘We’ve never had the Navy and RAF involved in Sleep Out before. There’s always been a competitive edge at Sleep Out with teams trying to raise more money than their peers so this just adds to the excitement. It’s also great that the Navy and the RAF are recognising the important work Centrepoint does in supporting the young people who have experienced homelessness.’ Artemis, Phillips, Homebase, Taylor Wimpy, Drivers Jonas Deloitte Centrepoint’s Sleep Out

and Herbert Smith have already signed up to Sleep Out, as well as

Centrepoint’s Sleep Out is being planned with military precision and

Centrepoint ambassador and Radio 1 DJ Sara Cox. Organisations

now it has the Royal Navy and the RAF onboard to help. This year

interested in taking part can sign up online or, for team leaders wanting

the charity, which supports homeless young people, holds its flagship

to challenge employees, request a Team Challenge Pack.

event on Thursday 10 November at Broadgate’s Exchange Square.

Each team must commit to raising at least £1,000 (£250 each for a team of

About 650 people will bed down for the night under London’s stars

four). Companies are urged to move quickly as tickets are being snapped

with just sleeping bags and cardboard for comfort in an attempt to

up fast. To sign up or for a Team Challenge Pack, visit www.centrepoint.

raise £250,000 for HRH Prince William’s youth homelessness charity.

org.uk/sleepout, email events@centrepoint.org or call Centrepoint’s

The Armed Forces, which have never been involved in Sleep Out before,

events team on 020 7423 6868.

lookers landrover Lookers Land Rover will be displaying the All-New Range Rover Evoque, the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Discovery 4 and Freelander. Lookers will also be offering residents of Broadgate the chance to win a ‘Five Star Range Rover Weekend’ for two, comprising: -

Friday: Lunch at Smiths Brasserie, Wapping

Transport via a Range Rover to five star hotel Luton Hoo

Dinner and overnight stay at Luton Hoo

- Saturday: Off Road Driving Experience at Luton Hoo Land Rover Experience Centre

Farmers’ Market With so much produce in season, the autumn months offer some of the best times to shop at the Broadgate Farmers’ Market. Amongst other things, look out for: •

Soft fruit still in season and varieties of English pears and apples (that change each week), courtesy of brothers Alistair and Julian Mead of Fiveways Fruit Farm in Essex

•

Spectacular squashes from specialist vegetable grower Adrian Izzard of Wild Country Organics in Cambridgeshire

•

Lardy Da pork pies made by expert pie maker Malika Mezeli, who renders her own lard from pork reared on Stockings Farm in Bucks

•

Game including everything from rabbit, hare and venison to pheasant, pigeon and partridge, provided by Doug and the team from The Mersham Shoot, Bank Farm, Kent

•

Beefburgers from Warwickshire’s Galileo Farm; the team has been turning heads and filling stomachs with its exemplary burgers, made in front of you to your own specifications

•

Freshly-shucked oysters from fishermen Matt and Steve (The

Keep your eyes peeled for new produce… Broadgate Farmers’ Market runs on the second and fourth Thursday

Handpicked Shellfish Company), available in any month with an “r”

of each month (13 and 27 October, 8am-2pm) on the Broadgate

in its name

Estate – currently held in Finsbury Avenue Square, near Gaucho’s

A few extra stalls starting at the market in coming months.

Restaurant (though location is subject to change).

SHOPPING

Waitrose Canary Wharf’s Waitrose proudly reopened its doors this September, unveiling the results of a £15 million investment in the brand’s flagship store. Now a bright and airy shopping space, and with a new water-side entrance, this is the first ever Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home store. For grocery shopping the store has increased its range of finest quality products, including a choice of more than 1,000 wines from 23 countries. By adding nearly two thirds more checkouts the team ensures that shopping is as quick and efficient as possible. Every measure has been taken to create the most pleasurable experience buying the finest products and, with the average lunch-break being just 17 minutes long, workers need good food, fast. The entire ground floor provides a sumptuous range of ‘Food for Now’, offering everything from freshly baked bread, handmade sushi, delisandwiches, noodles, stews and succulent chicken. There is also a ‘stop and perch’ expresso bar as well as a patisserie to grab a quick morning treat. The first floor houses a large café while the upper floors display the vast range of John Lewis home furnishings and designer brand fashion. Now boasting men’s and women’s fashion, accessories, travel goods and fragrances, a new sportswear section also comes complete with ‘gait analysis’ machine to ensure the best fit of running shoes.

Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home Canada Place 020 7719 0300

Quick Guide to Store Mall Level: Food, Espresso Bar, Eateries Street level: Home, Children’s, Waitrose Café Level 1: Fashion, Electronics, Customer Collections

Refreshed

SHOPPING

Pure Sports Medicine NOW Open Pure Sports Medicine, the first full-service sports injury practice in the UK opens at Cabot Place. The clinic hosts 13 consultation rooms, offering a complete range of services including Physiotherapists, Sports Doctors, Osteopaths, Sports Massage Therapists, Sports Podiatrists, Orthopaedic Consultants, Nutritionists and Performance Coaches. The rooms are aptly named after admired athletes, from ‘Carter’ (Daniel Carter, NZ Rugby Player), to ‘Coe’ (Lord Sebastian Coe, GB Olympic Gold medallist). The clinic also includes a large studio space which provides facilities for rehabilitation, including pilates, yoga, specific sports training equipment and one-on-one training sessions. It comes complete with a fully equipped gym, shower facilities and changing rooms. Pure Sports Medicine’s team is led by international sports medicine specialists who are eminent figures in each of their fields. The doctors and therapists have worked with national teams at various Olympic and World Championship events in a range of sports. However, they believe the principles of sports medicine as applied at the élite level can be just as effective for ordinary individuals in their everyday lives. Dr Mike Bundy, Pure Sports Medicine’s Medical Director and England Rugby Team doctor says: “Bad backs, nasty necks and rickety knees are as significant in our daily practice as

in Canary Wharf

the trauma sustained in the scrum – in fact 30 per cent of problems we see are non-sports related.” Founder Andrew Willett, an ex-professional rugby player, drew inspiration for Pure Sports Medicine while studying for an MBA at the University of Oxford, following an Achilles tendon injury playing rugby for the University. He noticed a lack of expert treatment in the UK and resolved to create a clinic with the best possible specialist treatments to benefit everyone, from élite athletes to non-exercising individuals. “We’re delighted to open in the dynamic business hub of Canary Wharf. The new centre maximises convenience for all of those focused, but time-poor individuals who need our specialist treatment and advice. The comprehensive range of services also means that all training, treatment and nutritional needs can be taken care of in one place. It’s really important for people to understand that, whilst our clinicians work closely with élite athletes, those very same clinicians are available to everyone.”

Pure Sports Medicine Cabot Place Canary Wharf 020 7512 9971 www.puresportsmed.com

arts&events

Sport, Music,

Comedy & Culture

Whether you’re into rugby or comedy, music or art, Canary Wharf’s thriving Arts & Events programme has something for everyone this October

AN EVENING WITH LEGENDS You are invited to join rugby legends England’s David Trick (Tricky) and Ben Kay, Ireland’s Rob Henderson and Saracens’ Hugh Vyvyan for some lively chat and questions and answers prior left to right: Rob Henderson, Ben Kay and Hugh Vyvyan to the screening of Invictus(12) starring Hollywood legends Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon and directed by Clint Eastwood. The 2009 film depicts the incredible true story of the rise and success of the host nation South Africa in the 1995 Rugby World Cup.

Tuesday 11 October 7pm (doors 6.30pm) Screening commences 8pm East Wintergarden, 43 Bank Street, Canary Wharf Tickets £20 Unreserved seating. Full pay bar & snacks available.

CANARY WHARF COMEDY CLUB TOUCH RUGBY CHALLENGE Canary Wharf celebrates the 2011 Rugby World Cup by inviting members of the UK’s England Touch Elite Squad to Canada Square Park where they will demonstrate the sport and their skills. There will also be the unique opportunity for teams to take them on and rugby enthusiasts to take part in the rugby target challenge. Either just turn up on the day and participate in this celebration of rugby or why not enter a team? The team with the best result against the professionals will be presented with the winning trophy. It’s free to enter and teams can be all men, all women or mixed. For details on how to enter a team email: arts&events@canarywharf.com

Tuesday 11 October 11.30am-2.30pm Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, E14 FREE

Featuring* Pete Firman, Lucy Porter, Mike Wilmot, Prince Abdi and Will Smith Comedy Club returns to the East Wintergarden with a firm line up of comedy heavyweights including Pete Firman, Lucy Porter, Mike Wilmot and Prince Abdi. After an eventful few months no doubt they’ll have plenty to say. Enjoy the dark, anarchic magic Pete Firman Lucy Porter as he reveals his dirty tricks, quick witted Lucy Porter delivers her feel-good comedy with fervour, the UK’s only Anglo-Somali comic Prince Abdi warms the cockles of the crowd with his infectious style and Mike Wilmot’s close-to-the-bone humour is bound to cause a ruckus or at the least borderline offence. Completing the line up is British comedian Will Smith. Born and brought up in Jersey he is known for encyclopaedic knowledge of Bergerac, as well as his posh boy persona!

Tuesday 25 October 7.15pm (doors 6.30pm) East Wintergarden 43 Bank Street, Canary Wharf Tickets £12

* Line up correct at time of publication Unreserved seating. Full pay bar and food available.

After Hours With… PENGUIN CAFÉ Bringing together a group of talented musicians from every walk of musical life, Arthur Jeffes has successfully continued his father’s original concept of the Penguin Café Orchestra, and proved to be an outstanding composer himself. Don’t miss this chance to see Penguin Café in the unique setting of the East Wintergarden.

Friday 7 October 7.45pm (doors 7pm) Support: Katy Carr East Wintergarden, 43 Bank Street, Canary Wharf Tickets £20* *Maximum 4 tickets per person Unreserved seating. Full pay bar available.

Booking information: In advance: Visit ticketweb.co.uk or call 0844 847 2268 (Booking fee applies) In person: On the door, subject to availability Note: Only items purchased at the East Wintergarden may be consumed on the premises.

Sculpture in the workplace / visual arts

Penguin Café

LAWSON OYEKAN: GLOBAL WORKING Lobby, One Canada Square Canary Wharf, E14 Until 11 November This autumn marks the culmination of ten years of exhibitions in Canary Wharf’s Sculpture in the Workplace series. For the first exhibition in the next series, we have chosen to look at the monumental ceramics of Lawson Oyekan, whose work is already displayed in Canary Wharf’s permanent art collection. Global Working focuses on the ceramic sculpture Lawson Oyekan has made in different countries around the world, in places where he has spent time working in communal studios, with local people and with local materials. The multi-piece sculptures in this exhibition were made on the island of Fyn in Denmark and in Maryland and Minnesota in the United States and form a family of works that at the same time bear similarities, occasioned through the artist’s hand and concepts, but which are made different through the materials available to him and his response to new environments. Born in Britain then raised in Nigeria, Lawson Oyekan’s antecedents are the Yoruba people whose history includes ceramics made over the course of thousands of years. His rich cultural heritage, his art education at the Central School of Art & Design and Royal College of Art in London and his acknowledged international career have placed him at the forefront of contemporary practice and he is considered a significant artist, working across the globe. In 2001 he won the Grand Prix Award at the first World Ceramic Biennale held at Icheon, Korea.

Tuesday 1 November, 1.15pm, free Artist and curator Ann Elliott in conversation about the exhibition. Call 020 7418 2257 to reserve a place.

Win tickets!

We have four tickets to give away for Canary Wharf Comedy Club on 25 October. To be in with chance to win simply email arts&events@canarywharf.com with your name, contact number and the code CWAE3. The winner will be drawn at random and notified on Monday 17 October.

For more information visit canarywharf.com

GETS TO THE POINT. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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Google+ vs Facebook

S In a bid to take over the technological world, Google+ has finally been released to the public, in direct competition with Facebook

ince it was launched in 2004, social networking site Facebook has remained unrivalled; as of July 2011, it possessed more than 750 million users. However, Google has decided to challenge this long-standing reign by releasing its own version of the social networking site, named Google+. Although eyebrows have been raised at Google’s ability to come up with a social media site that could surpass Facebook’s long-standing domination, Google+ has already proved a success. Launched in June, the site has to date surpassed 25 million members. Now it has fully

opened to the public, it is expected to have signed up 100 million members by the end of 2011. Google+ has worked hard to avoid the same privacy policy issues previously faced by Facebook. The social networking site has provided the feature ‘Circles’ for users in order for them to avoid sharing information with strangers. and it has developed innovative new features to defeat its opponent, including enabled video ‘hangouts’, whereby people can talk via video in groups to mobile phones. Only time will tell if Google+ can succeed in overtaking the as yet unstoppable Facebook in the world of social networking. n

Enhancing the

Olympic Experience Our capital will become the epicentre of the sporting world next summer as London hosts the 2012 Olympic Games. Richard Brown meets Andrew Burton, CEO of Prestige Ticketing, the man who has been charged with the task of providing guests with the ultimate in-venue Olympic hospitality

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port runs in the Burton family. Andrew’s father Mike is a former England Rugby Union player who, in addition to making 360 appearances for Gloucester and being capped 17 times by his country, represented both the British Lions and The Barbarians. Andrew himself now runs a company that specialises in delivering corporate hospitality, event management and business travel for some of the world’s greatest and most memorable sporting occasions. In 2009 the Mike Burton Group joined forces with catering and support services company Sodexo to form Prestige Ticketing, the company awarded the exclusive contract to create, market and sell the official on-site hospitality packages for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

How did the Mike Burton Group start? The company was set up by my father in 1981. Following his retirement from rugby, he decided to establish a sports management agency that focused on hospitality. Back in those days the concept of entertaining corporate clients at major sporting events was in its infancy, so in a way he was one of the pioneers of the hospitality industry as we know it. Towards the end of the 90s we found that a lot of the governing bodies and stadium venues were embracing the concept of hospitality as another major source of income. Nowadays, almost all of Europe’s major stadiums have been, or are being, redesigned with function rooms, banqueting spaces and glass-fronted viewing boxes in order to accommodate increased demand for hospitality. What makes Prestige Ticketing so well placed to provide corporate hospitality at the 2012 Games? We have a deep understanding of the market. We’ve seen how the industry has changed over the last 20 years and have witnessed its evolution. Once upon a time corporate hospitality events were seen as a bit of a jolly, whereas nowadays guests have very high expectations, as they use hospitality as a major marketing tool to develop relationships with their key clients. They know that the quality of the experience they offer their clients will reflect on their own company. Our aim is always to exceed our clients’ high expectations. What can people expect from Prestige Ticketing packages? Every package is of the highest quality. Usually you will arrive at a venue three or four hours before the start of the competition or session that’s taking place. There will be a champagne reception followed by sit-down fine dining. All our tickets are from the top category and in terms of location, we offer unique access to the Olympic Park via a hospitality centre just 70 metres from the Olympic Stadium. Our official London 2012 hospitality packages are genuinely second to none. Some of your tickets cost as much as £4,500 each. What validates the price? Demand. Those particular tickets are expensive, but we go through a very robust benchmarking process before we price them. We talk to customers about what their expectations are and then compare prices with other major sporting events, such as international football tournaments and Grand Prix

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in order to put together a pricing structure and distribution strategy that we believe is right to maximise sales. Have sales been slower or quicker than expected? Sales have been fantastic. At this stage the sales have been better than expected and that’s reflective of the demand for the public tickets. I think everyone has been left staggered by the uptake. What has triggered this huge demand? We’ve always been a nation of sports fanatics. Whether it’s a soccer game at Wembley, a race meeting at Ascot or a rugby game at Twickenham, they are always sold out. When it comes to the Olympics, everyone wants to go; the Games are front page, not back page, news and there is something for everyone. As much as the most iconic event is probably the men’s 100 metres final, that won’t appeal to everybody. There are people who would prefer to watch the sailing or the dressage. What qualities are most essential in being successful? It sounds clichéd but honesty and integrity. It’s very important that you deliver what you say you’re going to do. You’re only as good as your last project or your last event. The customer must always be given the experience they are promised through marketing. Who have been your business role models throughout your career? My father was a huge inspiration to me, both as an international rugby player and as a business person. He may no longer be as actively involved in the company as he used to be but he has been a constant source of support for me. What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made in business? I think we’ve been incredibly lucky. Of course, there have been some things that we could have done differently but mostly we seem to have made the right decisions for the business at the right time. I look back with an immense sense of pride at what we have achieved. Away from the world of business, what inspires you? I have a wife and three children who keep me very busy. I enjoy spending as much time with them as I can. But, of course, to achieve everything you want to do, work has to take up a major part of your time. If you could compete in and win any Olympic event, what would it be? I’m sure my colleagues would say that with the size of me, it should be the shot put or the hammer! But to win gold in any event would surely represent not just the greatest sporting moment, but one of the greatest moments in anyone’s life. n For more information about the packages the company offers, contact Prestige Ticketing on 0844 728 2012 or visit www.prestigeticketing.london2012.com

The Eye in the Sky The new series of Eye To Eye on Bloomberg Television launches with sky-high points of view

t’s the TV series that locks some of the planet’s most distinguished personalities in the London Eye for 30 minutes for the type of a conversation you’re unlikely to experience during a normal interview. And it’s back for a second, star-studded series. After featuring the likes of Sir Philip Green, Christian Louboutin and Bianca Jagger in its inaugural run, Eye to Eye returns to our screens on 29 September at 8pm with a debut episode that introduces the range of lifestyle and billionaire business icons to be featured in the second season. Among the list of high profile individuals, with whom Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua will get up close and

personal, 135 metres above London’s Southbank, are gastro extraordinaire Heston Blumenthal, England fashion favourite Sir Paul Smith and celebrated businessman George Soros. Filmed in Europe’s tallest Ferris wheel, Eye to Eye captures celebrities in a way you’ve never seen them before. Once the capsule’s doors are locked, there really is no escape. For the next half an hour Francine engages with the guests against a backdrop of the London skyline until the iconic wheel has completed a full rotation. With the first interview of the second series airing at the start of this month, we profile the list of personalities who will be taking a ride on the London Eye.

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From left: Bloomberg TV’s Francine Lacqua interviews Sir Paul Smith on the London Eye; George Soros; Zhang Xin; Heston Blumenthal; Sir Martin Sorrell Photography: Simon Dawson/Bloomberg

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George Soros

Heston Blumenthal

Thursday 6 October at 8pm Saturday 8 October at 10am and 9pm Sunday 9 October at 10am and 9pm

Thursday 27 October at 8pm Saturday 29 October at 10am and 9pm Sunday 30 October at 10am and 9pm

Known as “the Man Who Broke the Bank of England” after he made a reported $1 billion during 1992’s Black Wednesday currency crisis, Hungarian-American financier, businessman and philanthropist George Soros is estimated to be worth upward of £15 billion. Soros, who played an integral part in Hungary’s peaceful transition from communism to capitalism during the late 1980s, provided Europe’s largest-ever higher education endowment when he donated to the Central European University in Budapest. Francine Lacqua catches up with Soros and finds out why he believes markets are “always fallible”, and why he is donating $8 billion to charity.

Heston Blumenthal OBE’s Berkshire restaurant The Fat Duck has been voted not just the best restaurant in the UK but the best in the world. The super-chef talks about the three days that changed his life, when he went from near-bankruptcy to wealthy worldwide celebrity. Watch Blumenthal talk about the scientific approach behind cooking and the business of wine.

Sir Paul Smith

It has taken just 25 years for Sir Martin Sorrell to turn WPP plc from what was originally a manufacturer of wire shopping baskets into world’s largest advertising group with more than 2,400 offices in 107 countries. Sorrell, a man who is feared and revered for his business acumen, tells Francine why he thinks the global advertising industry is facing irreversible, seismic changes.

Thursday 13 October at 8pm Saturday 15 October at 10am and 9pm Sunday 16 October at 10am and 9pm Sir Paul Smith hasn’t done too badly for someone who left school at the age of 15. Since then the entrepreneurial designer has established a successful global fashion empire without borrowing a penny. Before Smith’s company became one of the most recognizable clothing brands, fashion was just a way of earning a living, he tells Francine.

Zhang Xin Thursday 20 October at 8pm Saturday 22 October at 10am and 9pm Sunday 23 October at 10am and 9pm Penniless sweatshop worker turned billionaire, Zhang Xin’s career trajectory is the ultimate rags to riches story. Presently the CEO of SOHO China, the largest real estate developer in Beijing, Xin’s tale is one that will inspire any young entrepreneur looking to make waves in the world of business. Tune in to see Zhang Xin talk about how she managed to become one of the world’s most successful property tycoons.

Sir Martin Sorrell Thursday 3 November at 8pm Saturday 5 November at 10am and 9pm Sunday 6 November at 10am and 9pm

Mohamed Alabbar Thursday 10 November at 8pm Saturday 12 November at 10am and 9pm Sunday 13 November at 10am and 9pm As Chairman of Emaar Properties, the largest construction and development company in the UAE, Mohamed Alabbar has played a key role in the development of Dubai’s real estate sector, overseeing the construction of more than 1,000 residential units and office complexes during Dubai’s real estate boom. Alabbar talks about the challenges of building his empire and the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. n Bloomberg Television can be watched in the UK on Sky (channel 502) Freesat (channel 208) and Virgin Media (channel 609). Tune in to Eye To Eye for frank, sky-high discussions with all of the personalities profiled For more information, visit www.bloomberg.com/tv

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Christmas Parties

of the best It’s nearly that time of year again so to ensure you celebrate the festive season in style, we present five venues perfect for the annual Christmas party Planet Hollywood, Haymarket Located just minutes away from Charing Cross and Piccadilly Circus, convenience is just one of the advantages of celebrating the festive season in Planet Hollywood. Have a Hollywood-style Christmas for your family or office party by being treated to a night of movie memorabilia and a glamorous sneak peak into the world of film and television. Planet Hollywood prides itself on being a dynamic venue that offers unmatched entertainment value. The diverse menu offers classic favourites such as awardwinning burgers and sumptuous salads. The relaxed and informal ambience steers away from pretention and instead provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can treasure the night forever by taking home one of the collectible souvenir gifts on offer at the end of the night. www.planethollywood.com 020 7437 7639

The East Wintergarden The East Wintergarden is a stunning events venue in the heart of Canary Wharf. As well as hosting conferences, gala dinners, product launches and weddings, the venue offers a unique experience for Christmas parties. Designed by Cesar Pelli and based on the New York Wintergardens, the modern, stylish venue will be transformed by a ceiling of lights inside the 27 metre high glass atrium, offering remarkable panoramic views of Canary Wharf’s architecture and skyline. A seated dinner can accommodate 200 minimum (500 maximum) and a buffet or reception can accommodate 200 minimum (1,000 maximum). This year’s Christmas party packages start from £85 + VAT with upgrades available for aerial dancers, jazz bands, chocolate fountains and casino tables. Contact the venue team for further information on hiring the East Wintergarden. www.canarywharf.com/workwithus/theeastwintergarden 020 7418 2725

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Hotel Verta Located on the South side of the River Thames and within easy reach of Chelsea and Sloane Square, Hotel Verta provides the perfect destination for this year’s Christmas party. With panoramic views over the River Thames and London’s Heliport as well as an intimate ambience, Hotel Verta has become London’s most exclusive ‘Hidden Gem’. A timeless combination of old world glamour and classic modernity will welcome you as you enter into the stunning hotel. Expect luxury treatment at the Verta Spa where you can indulge in skincare, massage and grooming to prepare for your numerous Christmas parties and events. Whether you are planning a small get-together with your colleagues or a big party of up to 200 guests, why not raise the bar on your celebrations this festive season?

Available from £59 per person www.hotelverta.com 020 7801 3500

Jewel in the Crowne Have an unforgettable Christmas celebration by partying in style at Crowne Plaza’s join-a-parties. Whether it’s with a group of friends or for an office party, enjoy a three course dinner in the Docklands Suite overlooking Royal Victoria Dock, The O2 Arena and Canary Wharf. Crowne Plaza Docklands also offers the perfect setting for a private Christmas party. For something a little different, you can have your party themed by Crowne Plaza’s Christmas Co-ordinator or, on New Year’s Eve, join the Masquerade Ball to celebrate the start of 2012. Start the evening with a glass of Bucks Fizz followed by a sumptuous three course gourmet dinner. Watch the spectacular fireworks display at midnight and dance the night away. www.crowneplazadocklands.co.uk 020 7055 2130

Boisdale, Canary Wharf From the Gothic style lacquer-red and dark green walls, and rich mahogany panelling to the rich Scottish interiors of tartan upholstered armchairs, everything says ‘Christmas’ at the fantastic Boisdale of Canary Wharf this winter. Step out of the freezing London streets and enter into a delightfully cosy atmosphere to enjoy an indulgent evening of hearty British food including Aberdeen Angus steaks, West Highland scallops and traditional roast Macsween haggis. After exploring the Cigar Terrace, warm yourself up at the bar with a glass from one of Boisdale’s 1,000 bottles of premium malt whiskey which helped to earn its reputation as housing one of the most extensive collections of this luxury liquor in the world. www.boisdale.co.uk 020 7715 5818

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Double Your Money David Kuo from The Motley Fool explains how to double investment, using the ‘Rule of 72’ Wouldn’t it be great if you could double your money, effortlessly? That is, quite simply, the objective for many stock market investors because they expect greater rewards for investing in shares instead of leaving their money in the bank or under the mattress. But how long, exactly, will it take to double your money? It is not difficult to figure this out, if only you know how. The secret lies in the ‘Rule of 72’. This rule of thumb is supposedly attributed to Albert Einstein, although no one knows for sure whether the great physicist actually came up with the concept. It also reportedly led Einstein to call the underlying theory behind the Rule of 72, namely compounding, the Eighth Wonder. So what exactly is compounding and why is it so wondrous? It is a relatively easy concept to grasp if you have ever built a snowman. You start with a ball of snow that you carefully compress in your hand. Then you roll it along the ground, and as the ball rotates, it picks up more snow and grows in size. At first it grows slowly and as the enlarged ball picks up more snow, its growth accelerates. In other words, the snowball compounds in size. Compounding in finance works in a similar way. You do very little work apart from either open a high-interest savings account or invest money in the stock market. After that, put your feet up and let your money do the rest for you. When money is invested properly it should generate a return. Provided those returns are left untouched, they will go on to make even more money. The enlarged pot, like the snowball, will grow slowly at first, but as the investment gets bigger, so too should the returns. Of course, some investments will generate higher returns, which will naturally allow you to double your money more quickly. This is where the Rule of 72 comes into its own.

The rule simply states that if you divide 72 by the rate of return you expect to earn from your investment, the resultant is the number of years it will take to double your money. For example, if your savings account is paying two per cent, it will take you 36 years (or 72 / 2 = 36) for your money to double. By contrast, if you are only earning one per cent, it will take 72 years to see an 100 per cent return on your investment. You can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to double your investment by looking for products that generate better returns. Normally these higher returns can be achieved by investing in shares. Since 1918, the UK stock market has returned around seven per cent a year after adjustments for inflation. Consequently, it could take just over ten years to see an 100 per cent return on your investment, if history repeats itself. There are various ways to invest in the stock market, though the easiest and cheapest by a long shot is to invest through a low-cost stock market index tracker. A tracker is simply a fund that holds shares in the same proportion as the index it is tracking. So, a FTSE 100 index tracker attempts to mimic the performance of the FTSE 100. The crucial difference between an index tracker and a managed fund is that the former is completely mechanical, which is why it is low cost. The Rule of 72 is a useful shorthand for working out how long it should take for an investment to double. However, it is worth bearing in mind that risk and reward go hand in hand. In other words, the greater the reward, the greater the risk. Consequently, it is vital to have a blend of investments with varying rates of returns in your portfolio. Professionals call it diversification but I call it common sense, because it is of course risky to put all your eggs in one basket. You may not get the best return, but nor will you end up cracking all your eggs if you accidentally drop the basket. n

Dr David Kuo, Director at popular financial website The Motley Fool www.Fool.co.uk

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Why Savings Still Matter Martin Bamford encourages us to resist the urge to spend impulsively and instead to save prudently The outlook for interest rates in the UK remains incredibly low. By the time the Bank of England announce its interest rate decision each month, most economists and commentators have already decided that rates will remain on hold. Now that the economy appears to be slowing even further, the speculation is less about when interest rates will go up but whether they might go even lower. Those of us with mortgages are probably rejoicing this prolonged period of very low interest rates: it should, in theory, be lowering the monthly cost of mortgages, making more money available to spend and, therefore, boosting economic prospects. Your country needs you to spend the money you were previously allocating to mortgage payments on consumer electronics and other goods from the High Street. In reality, it doesn’t appear to be working out quite like that: interest rates on mortgage products might have fallen, although often not by as much as the Bank Rate has dropped, and the popularity of fixed rate deals means that many with mortgages have not benefited from falling interest rates. Even when mortgage payments have fallen, it does not necessarily mean borrowers are out spending their spare cash each month. Uncertainty in the job market is one reason why some people are cautious about spending their cash. Stubbornly high price inflation has pushed up the cost of other goods and services we consume, so any savings on mortgage payments are being offset to some extent by higher fuel and food prices. The flip side of lower interest rates is the impact these have on savers. Some groups have been vocal, since interest rates fell, about the consequences of lower interest rates for elderly people. Those in retirement often use the interest on cash savings to supplement their income in later life. Seeing your interest income fall so dramatically, while price inflation is high, can have a dramatic impact on your household budget.

Recent figures from the Bank of England suggest that savers have missed out on more than £43 billion of interest payments over the past two and a half years, when interest rates were first cut. The same figures show that borrowers have benefited by around £51 billion, so the £8 billion gap should in theory be of benefit to the economy. But despite such low interest rates, savings remain the foundation of every sensible financial plan. It can be hard to find the motivation to allocate your money to cash savings when the reward for doing so is close to derisory, yet cash remains the best home for your assets in a variety of circumstances. What we have seen during the summer, which has coincided with historically low interest rates, is an extremely volatile set of investment markets. As a result, many savers are unprepared to expose their money to the stock markets or other investment markets in order to get the prospect for better returns. Leaving money in cash in the current low interest rate, high inflation environment is a sure fire way to see the ‘real’ capital value (that is, the purchasing power of the money) eroded over time. Even a couple of years of this happening can have a dramatic impact on the real value of cash savings. Cash does however offer a stable home for your money. The capital value will not fall in absolute terms, which is vital when you have a relatively short term financial objective. If you are uncomfortable with the possibility of the stock markets going down as well as up, cash is the only sensible option. It also provides a valuable safety net, often referred to as an emergency fund, should things go wrong financially. With the UK economy still in uncertain territory, knowing that you can afford to pay the bills for three to six months in the event that you lose your job is really positive. Now might be a unique opportunity to build an emergency fund of cash savings relatively quickly. It isn’t as gratifying as spending your surplus cash on the High Street, particularly with interest rates so low, but it can make a big contribution towards financial security and peace of mind. n

Martin Bamford is a chartered financial planner at Informed Choice (www.icl-ifa.co.uk) and author of several best-selling personal finance books.

Not just another day at the office WELCOME TO TOWN HALL HOTEL & APARTMENTS

T O W N H A L L H O T E L & A PA R T M E N T S

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C h r i S Tm a S pa rTi E S 201 1 Our famOus shared Christmas parties and pre-Club reCeptiOns at the rOOf Gardens are baCk fOr anOther year! step Out On the sixth flOOr and be transpOrted intO a rOOftOp Winter Garden fOr a party tO remember befOre yOu danCe the niGht aWay in the Club.

Book a table for 10 or more at our Shared Parties and you get all of the following:

Hire a private space and organise a Pre-Club Reception for up to 400 and we include:

• Glass of champagne on arrival • 3-course meal in the marquee • Selected wines, beers and soft drinks during the meal • Live entertainment by The Essentials • Entry to the Club from 10pm to 3am

• Glass of champagne on arrival • Selection of canapés • Selected wines, beers and soft drinks from 7pm until 10pm • Live entertainment by The Essentials • Entry to The Club from 10pm to 3am

from £110 per person

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start st tart plannin t planninG yOur neW year’s eve party

The Roof Gardens 99 kensington high street, london W8 5sa t: 0207 368 3960 victorial.l@roofgardens.virgin.com www.roofgardensclub.com/christmas

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Confronting Conflict Chelsey Baker, business advisor and life coach, considers conflict and discusses methods of resolution You cannot go through life without encountering conflict. Fundamentally, all conflicts revolve around a difference of opinion, be it in a relationship, in the workplace, in politics or in matters of faith. Because business is a capitalistic enterprise, by definition, it entails competition both within and outside its corporate structure. A company only prospers by persuading potential customers that they need its products or services and, unless it has secured a monopoly, it will be working in competition with rival businesses. Such competition is essentially conflict and businesses’ survival, not to mention people’s livelihoods, are often at stake. Standardised rules and regulations have evolved over time to reduce potential unpleasantness and keep business matters on an even keel, helping to dissipate excessive disappointment, anger and revenge. Hence the phrase “it’s not personal, it’s just business” is often used to justify aggressive business strategies or behaviour. In the workplace, perceived favouritism, unfair promotion, soured relationships, jealousy or even bullying cause disproportionate disruption, which can seriously affect personnel and lead to anxiety, stress, sudden unexplained absences and even serious illness. Such conflicts are insidious and have no place in modern business; it is the duty of management and staffing associations to dispel such tensions. It is necessary to maintain an enlightened working environment where such issues are immediately negated. Where interpersonal differences are small or relatively inconsequential, matters can often be resolved amicably; either you agree to differ, or someone compromises. However, if the situation entails more serious conflict and it is left unresolved, it can often fester or develop further, ultimately causing damage to your personal or business life. Serious problems arise when there is little or no willingness to compromise. This invariably happens when someone has staked their ego, their reputation, their livelihood or even their own personal safety. Furthermore, deeply held personal values, and religious or ethical convictions are amongst those areas most often cited as being beyond the possibility of compromise. Such inflexibility should serve as a warning sign that a given situation has the potential for spinning out of control. So how can such matters be resolved? Discussion, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, diplomacy and reconciliation are amongst the strategies that form the foundation of a sound, workable conflict resolution model.

Firstly, stay cool, calm and collected. Personally attacking your opponent is ineffective. Respect is essential in confronting conflict and, however much you might disagree, you may end up defeated before you even start if you let your emotions take over. Therefore, rather than losing your temper, approach the situation level-headedly; those who remain gracious in defeat usually inherit the moral high ground. Never close the door on compromise, even if you feel that you or another interested party may be losing out. Compromise is always better than capitulation for all concerned and sometimes it pays off to give a little in order to receive a great deal. Be rational and maintain a balanced perspective. Patience and understanding are essential virtues in conflict resolution. There are times when opposing positions are so entrenched that no amount of reasoned appeal, goodwill or compromise will work. When all else has failed, then this is the time to seek out arbitration. An independent mediator can be worth their weight in gold when a speedy resolution is required. There are a number of resources available, from ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) to the local Citizens Advice Bureau. Ironically, there are positive aspects to conflict that are easy to overlook. Conflict can result in compelling the protagonists to refocus and become more dynamic, if only in defence of their own position or viewpoint. As a result, a status quo is likely to be changed and this in turn will bring about synergy. The old cliché ‘necessity is the mother of invention’ is accurate in this context. The more enlightened among us will look upon conflict as an unexpected opportunity, a gift horse that allows the introduction of creativity and innovation as both a spin-off and as a primary means to dissolve the original conflict. n

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Philosophical Beliefs Clare Murray explains how employees are protected against discrimination on grounds of their beliefs

Whilst it is widely accepted that Christians, Muslims and Sikhs, for example, should be protected against discrimination in the workplace on the grounds of their religion, it is perhaps more controversial when employees seek to assert employment protection for other ‘beliefs’. An anti-fox hunting demonstrator, a 9/11 and 7/7 conspiracy theorist and a staunch believer in British Nationalism, amongst others, have tried to assert that they should be protected against discrimination by their employers on grounds of these beliefs. The Equality Act 2010 (the “Act”) not only prohibits discrimination in the workplace on the grounds of religion but also on the grounds of ‘belief’. ‘Belief’ is defined under the Act as any “religious or philosophical belief” and includes discrimination on grounds of lack of belief too. The key case on the definition of philosophical belief concerned an employee who argued successfully that his belief, that carbon emissions needed to be cut to avoid catastrophic climate change, was worthy of protection. The Court held in the case of Nicholson that a philosophical belief must “have a similar status or cogency to a religious belief to be protected.” In summary, the belief must be genuinely held, must be a belief

rather than simply an opinion or viewpoint, must be “weighty and substantial”, must attain a level of cogency, seriousness, cohesion and importance and lastly, be worthy of respect in a democratic society and not incompatible with human dignity. Applying these guidelines, it is arguable that beliefs such as humanism, feminism and veganism may fall to be protected whilst the belief in racial superiority, for example, will not qualify because this would fall to be incompatible with human dignity. Provided that an employee can establish that his or her belief qualifies to be protected under the Act, it will be unlawful for an employer to directly or indirectly discriminate against the employee or harass or victimise them on the grounds of their belief. Whilst it may be difficult for employers to judge in advance each and every ‘belief’ that their employees may seek to rely upon, they should find some comfort in the relatively high qualifying threshold being applied by the courts following the case of Nicholson. With the UK becoming an ever more secular society, however, it will be a case of waiting to see how the protected characteristic of ‘belief’ will develop; watch this space. n

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

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www.justerinis.com 0207 493 6174

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extreme races bmw convertible .................................................................................. ..olympics ....................................... ..........................

The Dakar Rally

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most celebrated rally: an unforgiving 14 day race across 9,000 kilometres of some of the harshest terrain on the planet

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ultimate challenge for those who go, they say, and a dream for those who stay behind. Last year, 663 participants from 53 nationalities took part in the Dakar Rally, an event steeped in the spirit of adventure, bound by the camaraderie of its competitors and one that can trace its roots back 34 years to 1977. That was the year that French motorcycle racer Thierry Sabine got lost on his motorbike in the Libyan desert during the Abidjan-Nice Rally. Enthralled by the landscape in which he found himself, Sabine promised that on his return he would devise a way of giving others the

opportunity to experience the same astonishing environment. Two years later, the Dakar Rally was born. Taking racers on a pan-American adventure, the Dakar Rally 2012 will transport competitors from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to those of the Pacific on a course guided by the Andes mountains. After the dunes and canyons of Argentina, competitors will face the mountains of Chile before the sands of Peru. Stage one will commence 1 January at Mar del Plata. Before then, European competitors will attend a training day in Paris on 29 October. For your chance of competing visit www.dakar.com. n

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Some people meditate; others drink herbal tea. When Tony Martin, CEO of Extreme World Races, fancies a detox, he travels to the planet’s most inhospitable places for a little ‘alone time’. Richard Brown finds out more challenging things brought me to a situation where I had experienced most of what’s on offer in the world. Naturally, it was time to design new and almost impossible challenges for both my logistics team and therefore the client. If it “can’t be done”, I’m interested. What does an Extreme World Race entail? An Extreme World Race is twofold. On one hand, we look into the logistic requirements and how to ensure client safety, which includes the development of pioneering technologies like our bespoke 6x6 Hybrid Hilux’s, in use in Antarctica; and on the other hand, we look to empower people with the confidence to perform in extreme environments and complete amazing, lifechanging challenges.

he temperature has just dropped to minus 60 degrees, cold enough to freeze your skin in minutes; 80/mph winds batter you relentlessly. You know there are crevasses a mile deep all around. You’ve been racing for 13 days in the toughest conditions imaginable. Many have given up. “Out here,” says Tony Martin, “stripped of everything you ever took for granted, is where you’ll find the real you.” And Tony should know. With more than 20 years of working in extreme environments under his belt, the exRoyal Engineer, Army Commando and bomb disposal expert knows more than most about the limits of human endurance. Having swapped the battlefield for the boardroom – or, more accurately, for Siberian black ice – Tony has spent the last eight years helping people (including Top Gear’s Clarkson, Hammond and May) achieve the extraordinary through his adventure sports company, Extreme World Races. What inspired the decision to set up your company, Extreme World Races? It was more a corporate evolution in my career than anything else. While in the military I was part of a specialist team that trained Commandos to survive in the Arctic and many other areas of the world. I spent a lot of my time on expeditions, from living with the Pygmies in the Congo to wrestling with the Mongols in Siberia. This combined experience and constant ambition to do

How do you turn ordinary people into intrepid explorers? It’s not me; it’s them. My team simply creates a platform for development. We provide the best equipment and training money can buy. Couple this with the right attitude and drive and you will find yourself capable of anything, and I mean anything. At our adventure training academy in Norway, we offer an opportunity for anyone to go through the training required to complete one of our challenges. This way you get a taste of what’s to come without committing to a lengthy event. One week at our Academy and you’ll be surprised what you can achieve. What’s the most dangerous aspect of polar exploration? It depends on what level you’re at. If you are a solo explorer on the way to the Geographic North Pole, your life is literally in the hands of nature; open water and polar bears could end your attempt before you’re ready to give in. If you’re crossing Antarctica, then deep crevasses are a major risk.

The daily fight to keep a company alive, to reach a pole or to climb a mountain becomes like a drug But in my experience the biggest danger in polar regions is your own mind. Each and every person in a race builds a credible reason for failure long before they get to the start line. It’s simply the subconscious defending the mind’s ego. When it gets tough, the hardest things to deal with are your thoughts. Half your brain is telling you to quit and you won’t even know it. This is when your inner endurance level kicks in, your strength of character and your life skills. Younger people tend to falter at this juncture. What can a person taking part in an EWR race expect to get out of it? A life-changing experience. The polar regions in

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particular are environments where you will experience a complete mental and physical detox. Imagine a white world where there is nothing but you and your thoughts for three weeks. The trappings of your daily routine and the constant bombardment of noise, colour and smell are stripped away, leaving just you and your teammates. The often-false representation of yourself and the persona you give out in the City will be taken away. No suit to hide behind, no trappings of society, no distractions to get lost in – simply the real you. How did the skills you acquired during your time in the Armed Forces help when setting up EWR? The skills that I attained and experiences I went through armed me for the ruthless world of business. Anyone in business today will agree it’s a battlefield of minds and wit. Thankfully the suits in the City are not carrying weapons… yet! Above all, my military experiences have taught me not to give up, to get up each and every time you get knocked down, to go the last mile, because it’s at that point you will find truth, the deal, the opportunity, whatever it is you’re looking for. What makes mankind constantly push itself to the limit? In us all there is a deep desire to explore and to experience, whether it’s a new hotel, town, relationship or full-on adventure. We have a built-in survival mode; some choose to push it and others simply float along. Some like to remain in their comfort zones while others like it on the edge. It’s those on the edge that will pull mankind further. The daily fight to keep a company alive, to reach a pole or to climb a mountain becomes like a drug. What’s the most extreme environment you’ve ever found yourself in? I have been in many – from the boardroom in the City to near-death experiences in places such as Baghdad and the Gobi desert. The most extreme has been the Central Saharan region. I found myself in a position where I had to decide whether to leave a friend to die or die with him.

Have you ever feared for your life? On many occasions, from life as a young boy fighting with the Triads in Hong Kong, where I grew up, to being shot at in Nigeria. Missile attacks in Iraq, hypothermia at minus 50 degrees in Northern Canada, a knife attack in Siberia, gorillas in Rwanda and mercenaries in central African republics, to name a few. What did you dream of being when you were a child? I was born in Germany into a military family so I had no choice about travelling. Generally, we moved every year to a different country and school, so adventure has been with me since I was born. As a child I was living my dreams; as an adult, I still am. Where’s your favourite place on earth? I have many. Mongolia is my favourite country and the Forbidden City in Beijing is my favourite place. Tell us about the Siberian Black Ice Race. It takes place in Irkutsk in late March and is only two weeks long. It was designed to allow many more people to experience the great outdoors and an extreme event. The difference is that it’s a short race with a small financial commitment. This area of the world is stunning and the marathon takes competitors from the south of the lake to the top. The sprint race finishes halfway. This is a multidisciplined event, allowing individuals and teams to use any non-motorised form of propulsion to achieve their goals. What does the future hold for Tony Martin? Children are the future of mankind until ET gets here. To this end I want to build a self-sustaining orphanage for as many children as I can. As for me, at 47 I only just started living, so who knows? Space is definitely an option. n Extreme World Races organises events that range in cost from £2,000 to £60,000. For more information visit www.extremeworldraces.com or call 020 7225 6420.

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CANARY WHARF TWENTY YEARS ON: AN INSIGHT INTO THIS ICONIC DEVELOPMENT From humble beginnings to a towering metropolis; how Canary Wharf WAS MADE

oday’s Canary Wharf is a unique destination. It is a remarkable achievement that has grown over 20 years since the first tenants arrived in 1991, helping to move London’s centre of gravity east. World-renowned for the iconic One Canada Square skyscraper, the business and shopping district comprises numerous buildings, four retail centres and notably, over 20 acres of landscaped open spaces. Synonymous with architectural excellence and boasting buildings by luminaries such as Lord Norman Foster, César Pelli and Sir Terry Farrell, Canary Wharf shows what can be achieved with vision, master-planning and a desire for excellence. As former Environment Secretary Lord Heseltine (the architect of Development Corporations in Liverpool and Docklands in the early 1980s) observed: “This is the most exciting example of urban renaissance in this country, and I believe, the world”.

With 95,000 people working there every day, Canary Wharf is a twenty-first century metropolis with a beating heart, creating wealth and providing employment. In addition, when the working day is done there are plenty of shops across the four retail centres of Canary Wharf and a plethora of bars and restaurants to enjoy into the night. More than anywhere else in London, a personal approach to public art and the free events that take place in the open spaces give Canary Wharf a unique culture – a destination like no other in the capital.

Whilst creating an awe-inspiring new district for London, Canary Wharf has always been a good neighbour both in the ‘best-in-class’ green credentials and, crucially, creating jobs . In fact, a quarter of the workers in Canary Wharf live in the surrounding boroughs, and contracts worth over £680 million have been awarded to local small and medium sized businesses since 1997. In the words of George Iacobescu CBE, Chairman and Chief Executive of Canary Wharf Group plc, “Canary Wharf is the largest urban regeneration project in Europe. It has paved the way for the wider development of the East End, which historically was left behind. Today, East London and Tower Hamlets can hold their heads up with pride.” Looking at Canary Wharf today, it’s hard to imagine that it is 20 years since the development opened. In that time a committed and talented group of people have driven the project forward and created something spectacular – here we tell the story of 20 years of Canary Wharf.

“Canary Wharf is the largest urban regeneration project in Europe. It has paved the way for the wider development of the East End, which historically was left behind. Today, East London and Tower Hamlets can hold their heads up with pride” GEORGE IACOBESCU CBE Chairman and Chief Executive, Canary Wharf Group plc

CANARY WHARF is born Over 20 years ago an ambitious masterplan was set in motion to transform the derelict docklands of East London into a NEW BUSINESS DISTRICT

he original vision of Canary Wharf was to deliver office space to the most dynamic financial and professional services firms in the world. In the late 1980s there was an acute need for a new business district in London that the Victorian street maps of the City and West End could not accommodate. But the idea of a new development, in the previously derelict docklands of East London, and on the scale proposed by Olympia & York

(then the largest property developer in the world), was met with disbelief. The bravery of the project was evident. At the time Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher stated, “Ten years ago, it would not have been possible even to think in such bold, ambitious terms.” Against a backdrop of considerable scepticism, Olympia & York secured political support from Margaret Thatcher and Lord Heseltine. “I had found myself in a small plane, heading by way of London’s East

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“There were not any roads and major infrastructure developments had to take place before the office space could be created.” TONY JORDAN Vice President (Business Development), Canary Wharf Contractors Limited

End,” Heseltine said. “The place was a tip: 6,000 acres of forgotten wasteland.” The transformation of this ‘wasteland’ into a modern hub of British business began, with Olympia & York’s previous success on major developments (including the World Financial Centre in New York) a key element in the purchase of the land. The company’s experience in similar projects acted as a strong foundation for the ambitious masterplan. What couldn’t have been predicted were the global economic conditions in the early 1990s. This, along with government delays in implementing the necessary infrastructure, led to Olympia & York entering administration in 1991, and ultimately to the creation of Canary Wharf Group plc as landowners, developers and managers of the Estate. In the early years, focus was given to improving the infrastructure. In 1988 the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) had been built, but as Tony Jordan, Vice President (Business Development), Canary Wharf Contractors Limited, notes “There were not any roads and major infrastructure developments had to take place before the office space could be created”. The Jubilee Line arrived in 1999 with a dramatic station designed by Lord Foster, and made a huge difference to the accessibility of Canary Wharf. With careful consideration given to every area of development, from transport and infrastructure to green space and energy efficiency, it’s evident that Canary Wharf is one of the few places in London built to a masterplan. The Estate features a series of tall towers declining in height as they move away from the

iconic One Canada Square. Tall towers alternate with shorter towers, maximizing natural light and views – and parks, squares and fountains are positioned on top of shopping malls. Canary Wharf has been built in phases; phase one was built from 1988 -1991 and went from One Canada Square westwards encompassing Cabot Square, North Colonnade and South Colonnade. In the subsequent phases of construction, running up to 2003, Columbus Courtyard was added and the development moved east past One Canada Square, taking in Canada Square, Churchill Place, and to the south, Bank Street including the East Wintergarden and Jubilee Place. In accordance with the original masterplan, all stages of the construction process have been undertaken by Canary Wharf Contractors Limited. Despite the intensive development, Bruce Buck, (Partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, which moved in during 1997) recalls, “Canary Wharf Group has always handled their construction projects exceptionally well, keeping the area startlingly clean so that you never feel like you are working in a building site.”

“WE HAVE TAKEN A HOLE IN THE GROUND AND CREATED A CITY” Phil Tweddle, Co-Managing Director, Canary Wharf Management Limited Energy-efficiency has also been an important criterion in construction for Canary Wharf Group plc. “We have always taken a longterm view on Canary Wharf, so environmental performance is very important,” George Iacobescu states. “Each new generation of buildings is better than the last.” As Phil Tweddle, Co-Managing Director of Canary Wharf Management Limited explained, “We have taken a hole in the ground and created a city.”

“Canary Wharf Group has always handled their construction projects exceptionally well, keeping the area startlingly clean so that you never feel like you are working in a building site.” BRUCE BUCK Partner, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP

WORKING the way up Not just another DEVELOPMENT, Canary Wharf proves its status as a worldclass centre of commerce

anary Wharf quickly outgrew the label of ‘just another office development’ and without a doubt has far exceeded the sceptics’ expectations. With a current working population of over 95,000 and 31 office buildings constructed to the highest standards of quality, resilience and environmental sustainability, Canary Wharf has become a world class centre for commerce. From the day the first tenants moved in over the summer of 1991, the appeal of

Canary Wharf as a desirable business location began to spread. Luke Terry, a Managing Director and Global Head of Corporate Real Estate and Services at Credit Suisse, remembers moving into Canary Wharf in 1993: “The buildings could be customised to our requirements and were spacious, which was difficult to find in the City and West End at that time. The lack of infrastructure was an issue at the beginning, but it is amazing what has been achieved in the years since then.”

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Today Canary Wharf is one of the world’s premier business districts, home to many of the best known global corporates: Thomson Reuters, Ogilvy & Mather, Citi, BP, Barclays, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, HSBC, KPMG and MasterCard. The district is notable in its diverse range of sectors, including media and advertising, energy, healthcare, law, financial services, professional and IT services and public sector organizations. Canary Wharf continues to be a magnet for the world’s most successful companies, evidenced by JPMorgan’s recent decision to move its European Headquarters there. Frank Bisignano, Chief Administrative Officer for JPMorgan Chase & Co., explains: “We spent a lot of time considering all of our available options in and around the City of London. With more than one million square feet of space, 25 Bank Street is a

rarity – it provides our 11,000 city employees with the necessary technology and infrastructure to grow our businesses over the next 100 years. Canary Wharf also ensures they have access to hundreds of retail shops and restaurants, cultural amenities, and award-winning public spaces.” There has been a consistent growth of employment in Canary Wharf over the past two decades, with the working population expected to climb above 105,000 in 2012, with the arrival of JPMorgan and Shell. The working population is also projected to double to over 200,000 by 2025. A critical dimension to the growth of the Canary Wharf estate has been the way in which the business community has integrated with the local community. Jim Fitzpatrick, MP for Poplar and Limehouse, which includes Canary Wharf within the constituency, believes that

95,000

93,000 2009

95,000

92,000 2008

90,000

2010

Estimated 2011

2007

2006

65,000 2005

2004

59,000 2003

42,000

51,000 2002

2001

35,000 2000

24,000

26,000 1999

1998

21,600 1997

13,000

14,000 1996

8,000 1994

1995

7,000

4,000

1993

1992

1991

2,000

80,000

CANARY WHARF WORKING POPULATION 1991 - 2011

105,000e

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the realisation of the importance of corporate responsibility has been vital in building a new community. “Canary Wharf has reached out and engaged with the local community, and so the local community has taken to the Wharf as somewhere to visit and enjoy. The Wharf provides an opportunity for local young people to have some kind of ambition, and role models, which is important.”

“With more than one million square feet of space, 25 Bank Street is a rarity – it provides our 11,000 city employees with the necessary technology and infrastructure to grow our businesses over the next 100 years.” FRANK BISIGNANO Chief Administrative Officer, JPMorgan Chase & Co.

A PLACE

for everything

From shopping, dining and socialising to art and culture, look no further than Canary Wharf

anary Wharf aspires to be more than a place to work. A big part of this has been the burgeoning growth of shops. For the past 20 years, Camille Waxer, Chief Administrative Officer of Canary Wharf Group plc, and responsible for the Estate’s retail offer, has been bringing the best of international retail to Canary Wharf: “When the first office tenants moved in there were 2,000 people here,” Camille remembers, “Next year we’ll have over 100,000 people – it’s been a remarkable journey.” Shopping in Canary Wharf has grown organically with the development. In 1993 there were 15 shops and restaurants; by 1998 this had increased to 80 before breaking

through the 200 barrier in 2003. Historically, malls would always cluster their food operators together, which became known as food courts. Camille Waxer explains that this approach was not one adopted by Canary Wharf: “We mixed food and retail

from the beginning, creating a mix found on a typical high street. Initially it was met with some resistance from non-food operators, however they soon realised that the increased footfall the food operators generated was to their advantage and were happy to sit alongside them.” This successful formula is now used in shopping centres across the country.

BRINGING THE WORLD TO CANARY WHARF And for those who have been paying attention, a not-so-small culinary revolution has been taking place in the East of London over the last decade. Leading names in food and drink have opened at Canary Wharf in recent years, restaurants include Roka, Jamie’s Italian, The Parlour, Wahaca, Rocket Restaurant & Bar, and the recently-opened much-celebrated Boisdale of Canary Wharf.

“When the first office tenants moved in there were 2,000 people here. Next year we’ll have over 100,000 people – it’s been a remarkable journey.” CAMILLE WAXER Chief Administrative Officer, Canary Wharf Group plc

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Although it was a slow and steady process getting to where the development is today, the restaurant choice continues to grow and evolve. Robin Birley, Founder of Birley’s, a boutique chain of sandwich, soup and salad bars now with six outlets at Canary Wharf, was one of the earliest shop tenants in the first wave of development. “There was never a question mark over the success of Canary Wharf for us”, Robin remembers. “Our stores have evolved and grown alongside Canary Wharf’s own development. Canary Wharf is, I believe, the best commercial hub in the world. You are up against the best of the best: if you prosper here, you have succeeded”. In the last two years ten new bars and restaurants have opened to critical acclaim, creating over 400 jobs, many of them in the local community. A recent success has been the arrival of Arjun Waney’s Roka, the contemporary Japanese robatayaki restaurant at The Park Pavilion.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE From the early years of the development, a vibrant and diverse events programme has been integral to life and work in Canary Wharf. The masterplan called for the creation of a variety of green spaces and public areas that can be used for outdoor performances. As Sian Astrop, Manager of the Arts & Events programme explains, “Our aim is to animate the space. By using the features of the development we are able to enliven and further energise Canary Wharf.” Importantly, the vast majority of events are free for visitors, workers and the local community to enjoy.

“People who come here on weekends are delighted to find restaurants of such quality, without having to go into the West End to find them” Arjun Waney, Owner of Roka

Today’s culturally diverse event programme includes music concerts, comedy nights, film seasons, outdoor festivals, dance, theatre, sports and art exhibitions. As a single landowner, manager and developer this ‘one-stop-shop’ gives enormous scope to the nature of events.

A PASSION FOR PUBLIC ART A dedication to displaying some of the world’s finest public art is perhaps what sets Canary Wharf apart from other business districts more than anything else. What Canary Wharf has done with public art is quite extraordinary: with one of the UK’s largest collections of public art work, over 220 artists have exhibited in more than 40 shows over the last two decades, and more than 60 works by 48 artists and designers are currently displayed across Canary Wharf. Leading artists including Ron Arad, Andrew Burton, Alison Crowther, Bill Culbert and Lynn Chadwick all have permanent pieces on display. In addition to growing Canary Wharf’s permanent art collection, temporary ‘pop-up’ art exhibitions also run throughout the year, all of which are free to view. Peter Randall-

Page, Phillip King, Danny Lane and Phyllida Barlow are among the recent exhibitors. One of the most popular exhibitions recently has been Charles Hadcock’s ‘New and Revisited Sculptures’ in Jubilee Park earlier this year. “I loved the concept of bringing art to people at work and removing the need to go to a gallery, which meant that it was not just your typical art-loving crowd.” In recognition of Canary Wharf’s public art achievements, particularly in adopting an increasingly sophisticated approach to integrating art into the landscape and the buildings, Canary Wharf Group plc was awarded the prestigious Christie’s Award for Best Corporate Art Collection and Programme at the International Art and Work Awards in November 2010, beating entries from around the world. A multifaceted destination, Canary Wharf has proved itself as a unique leisure environment for both its regular workers and weekend visitors. With four shopping malls, restaurants and bars, cutting edge art exhibitions, and an events programme to rival any London venue, there really is nothing else like it anywhere else in the capital.

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An illustration of the potential of Canary Wharf’s skyline in the future

LOOKING to the future As Canary Wharf comes to the end of the beginning, we look to the future for expansion and evolution

lmost 25 years since the plan for a new and revolutionary business district for London was conceived, the original masterplan is nearing completion, with construction of 25 Churchill Place beginning later this year. It has been a remarkable feat of design, construction and destination-creation in just two decades. A huge success story, Canary Wharf can rightly be held up as a blueprint for future commercial development. In the words of George Iacobescu, “Canary Wharf has reached the end of the beginning. We have built the original masterplan, and now it is time to expand and evolve in new ways.” On that note, Canary Wharf Group plc is already looking to the future, to a new and exciting phase of development. There are a number of buildings which have gained planning consent and are currently in the early stages of planning and construction on and around the Canary Wharf site, including developments

on Heron Quays West, North Quay, Riverside South and nearby Wood Wharf. Canary Wharf Group plc has also begun to cast its net further afield and is looking at a number of development opportunities in the City and West End, as it looks to take its ‘one-stop-shop’ approach to development, construction and management to other parts of London, including 20 Fenchurch Street and the Shell Centre by Waterloo Bridge. “Canary Wharf has already become a part of Central London,” George Iacobescu observes. This new phase of development will continue this integration. “In 20 years’ time, the areas in between Canary Wharf and the City will be developed – the distinction will not exist.” Indeed, in reference to Canary Wharf and other developments, the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said “Things are moving eastward.” From its humble beginnings 20 years ago, Canary Wharf demonstrates what can be achieved with vision, bravery, hard work and a

“Canary Wharf has reached the end of the beginning. We have built the original masterplan, and now it is time to expand and evolve in new ways” George Iacobescu CBE Chairman and Chief Executive, Canary Wharf Group plc commitment to quality. These same qualities will continue to drive the renaissance of East London over the next 20 years – with Canary Wharf the beating heart at the centre of it all. In the words of George Iacobescu, “Canary Wharf will be recognised as ‘a place’ in 100 or 200 years, even long after the current buildings are gone. It is with a sense of pride that we have created a City from nothing.”

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sports MotoGP Heads Down Under The 16th round of the 2011 MotoGP sees the teams travel to Phillip Island, the self-styled home of Australian motorsport. Blessed with breathtaking scenery and beautiful ocean views, the Phillip Island circuit is one of the fastest and most fluid tracks on the MotoGP calendar. Honda’s Casey Stoner will be looking to defend his 2010 Australian victory against stiff competition from teammate Andrea Dovizioso and Yamaha’s Jorge Lorenzo before the teams head to Malaysia for the season’s penultimate race.

Action Images

Australian MotoGP Philip Island – 16 October Malaysian MotoGP Sepang – 23 October www.motogp.com

The Rugby World Cup The 2011 Rugby World Cup is officially in full swing after host nation New Zealand opened proceedings against Tonga last month. In total, 48 matches across 13 venues will be played during the seven-week tournament that concludes on Sunday 23 October at Auckland’s legendary Eden Park. Four billion people in 200 territories tuned in

to watch the tournament unfold in 2007, making the Rugby World Cup the planet’s third most popular sporting event, after the Olympics and the Football World Cup. The Rugby World Cup 2011 9 September - 23 October www.rugbyworldcup.com

www.racingtheplanet.com

The Four Deserts If you’ve ever run the London Marathon, you know the pain that comes with doing so. Now imagine running six times that distance over seven days in temperatures that can reach 50 degrees. Taking competitors across 250 kilometres of one of the hottest places on the planet, the Sahara Race marks the fourth phase of the 2011 Four Deserts challenge – the world’s leading rough-country endurance footrace series. Only 11 competitors have completed the Four Deserts Grand Slam, which is to complete all Four Deserts in a calendar year. Anyone wanting to become the 12th member this year will have already completed the Atacama Desert in Chile and the Gobi Desert in China. If competitors make it through the scorching heat of the Sahara, the frozen fields of Antarctica await. The Sahara Race, Egypt 2 - 9 October

Euro 2012 Qualifiers Next summer promises to be an exciting time for sports fans. Just weeks before British athletes take to the track in search of gold medals at the Olympic Games, Poland and Ukraine will play host to the 2012 European Football Championships. For those who haven’t secured their place at their tournament, October offers the last chance to do so. For those already qualified, it’s time to begin preparations in earnest. www.uefa.com/uefaeuro2012

Sporting Soundbite

We’ve worked so hard to get here and hopefully we can keep improving. We want to be one of the best England teams there ever has been.

England cricketer James Anderson on his country’s recent form

www.4deserts.com/sahararace

The Young Ones

olympics

calibre

With the Olympic London 2012 Games inching ever closer, Lee Brooks kicks off a series of features looking ahead to the global showpiece by speaking to some of Britain’s budding young stars

Tom Daley Sport: Diving Age in 2012: 18 Career Highlights: 2010 individual and synchro Commonwealth champion 2009 10-metre platform world champion 2008 10-metre platform European champion The average 17-year-old boy has plenty to worry about. There’s learning to drive, passing A-Levels, getting into university and making plenty of time for mates, specifically girls. Plymouth-born Tom Daley is no different, aside from the fact that he happens to be one of the world’s best divers and needs to fit a world-class training schedule in alongside all of the above. “It’s just a matter of keeping my social life separate from my school life and both of those separate from my diving life. They’re pretty much all different worlds,” says Daley. “Plus, I’m lucky to have my family and the agency to help me organise everything.” Having made his entrance on the biggest stage in the world at the Beijing Olympics three years ago, as a babyfaced 14-year-old, Daley is used to the attention and the pressure that comes with it. Though he failed to win medals in China, the diving prodigy went on to become world champion a year later and double Commonwealth gold medallist last October, despite being about five years

Aaron Cook Sport: Taekwondo, Under-80kg Age in 2012: 21 Career Highlights: 2010 European senior champion 2008 World junior champion 2007 European junior champion Youth Olympics champion Inspired by hit American kids TV show Power Rangers, Dorchester-born Aaron Cooke persuaded his parents to take him down to a local Taekwondo club that was opening in his home town. Some 15 years later, he has won world junior and European senior titles, come incredibly close to an Olympic medal in the Beijing Games when he came fourth and held the number one world ranking in the Under-80kg category. His progress stalled this year when he was knocked out of May’s World Championships in South Korea in

younger than nearly all his major rivals. “Last year was amazing for me. The Commonwealths gave me so much confidence and it felt really good knowing that I can pull through a major event and deal with the pressure.” This year has been a roller-coaster one for Daley, though. In May, he tragically lost his father Rob, who had played a massive role in his life and his career, to cancer after a fiveyear battle. But Tom battled on to compete in the World Championships as defending champion and finished fifth with a series of new, more difficult dives. In August, he got his A-Level results – a B in maths, A in Spanish and A* in photography – to show that he’s got brains to match his immense amount of diving talent. Just talking to Daley, it’s immediately clear that he’s well practised at dealing with pressure while keeping his mind on the job – not something many teenagers can manage quite so well. “There’s always going to be pressure when I’m competing but it’s about using it to my advantage,” he says. “I’m extremely competitive. I want to win everything, whether it’s on the diving board or against my brothers, friends and family.” With that kind of steely determination, solid experience on the Olympic stage and a raft of high-scoring dives getting finishing touches, Daley is primed to lead British sport into a golden generation. Tom Daley is part of the BMW London 2012 Performance Team. For more information see www.bmw.co.uk/London2012

the first round, which dropped him to number four in the world and he took a massive gamble by quitting the British training programme a month later. In doing so he sacrificed lottery funding, but Cook is adamant he’s made the right decision. “I’m feeling determined and excited about my future,” he says. “I don’t regret my decision and psychologically, I’m feeling happy because I can now control my destiny.” Cook is training in a purpose-built shed in his back garden, which his dad originally built a few years ago in case he needed any extra practice, but which now acts as his main training base. Despite these difficult circumstances, Cook, who has often said he wants to be remembered as “one of the greatest of all time”, remains confident he can secure gold in 2012. “Obviously, the first task is to ensure I get selected,” he says, “but once that’s confirmed, I can switch my focus to that gold medal. I’ve learnt a lot from what happened in Beijing. I’ve worked hard since then, so it’s time to deliver.”

calibre olympics

RACHEL CAWTHORN Sport: Sprint Canoeing Age in 2012: 23 Career Highlights: 2010 European K1 1000m champion 2010 world K1 500m bronze medallist Rachel Cawthorn is evidence that it’s worth paying attention during school assembly. Then 15-years-old, Rachel decided to attend trials with British canoeing scouts after they’d given a talk one morning and seven years later, she’s a genuine medal contender for 2012. Of course, there’s been a lot of hard work in between, but as a result of a gruelling schedule – she trains three times a day, six days a week – Cawthorn won her first European title in the 1,000 metre sprint kayak event last year and followed that up by becoming the first British female to win a medal at a World Championship, with bronze in the 500 metres. While London will be her first Games, the 22-year-old went out to Beijing with the Olympic Ambitions programme

Shanaze Reade Sport: BMX Cycling Age in 2012: 23 Career Highlights: 2010, 2008 and 2007 BMX world champion 2008 and 2007 world team sprint champion They say defeat makes us stronger and when it comes to BMX star Shanaze Reade, they couldn’t be more right. The then 18-year-old rider arrived in Beijing with one hand on the Olympic title: she’d already won the world title two years running and was in supreme form compared to her rivals, despite her young age. But an overambitious move in the final saw her crash out in agony and walk away without a

to get a sense of what it’s like to compete in such a huge event. “It was incredible,” she says. “Obviously it’ll be different in London because we’ll have a home crowd but hopefully I’ll feel better prepared because I know what to expect, so I can just go in there and get on with the job.” Her winter training was hit by injury, which has in turn seen her struggle to replicate her best form. However, she bounced back to qualify the K4 (four-person) boat for London with a fourth-place finish at the 2011 World Championships and still hopes to qualify for the K1 individual event. For now, it’s all about training at Dorney Lake, the venue for the 2012 canoeing events, and Cawthorn is confident the experience will provide vital for London 2012. “I think it’ll be a massive advantage. I know that all my rivals will get the chance to train on the lake at some point before the Games but we’ve been training there for ages. Every course is different, so getting used to the water and the conditions will be really helpful.” Tesco is the official sponsor of GB Canoeing and proud to support Rachel Cawthorn

medal. The anguish moments after was painful viewing but her response to the defeat shows maturity. “I thought I was going to win and so did everybody else,” says Reade, “so the pressure was difficult to deal with. I was young but I’ve grown up a hell of a lot since. What happened there was a lesson in disguise because it highlighted my weaknesses and I’ve been working to eradicate them ever since.” A shoulder injury meant Shanaze couldn’t defend her world title in 2009 but she came back to win her third title in four years in 2010. Things didn’t go so well in the 2011 event, though, as she slipped on a pedal at the start and failed to reach the final. Again, she bounced back, romping to victory in the London 2012 test event in August with a flawless ride. “What better way to prepare for the Olympics?” she said after the win. What better way, indeed? n

14th October 2011 • 6.30pm - 11.00pm Tab Centre • Godfrey’s Place • London E2 7NT

Make a bid to back local arts Join us for a wonderful night of celebration at our

10TH Anniversary Auction Auction lots include: • 2 premium tickets for La Traviata at the Royal Opera House (kindly donated by British Land)

• A day trip for 2 on the Orient Express with 5 course lunch

• A week for up to 12 people in a chalet in the French Alps

• £40 vouchers for dinner at any Ping Pong restaurant (kindly donated by Ping Pong)

• A long weekend for 4-6 people in a beautiful cottage in Cornwall

• 3 course dinner for 2 at Japanese restaurant Tsuru, Broadgate Plaza (kindly donated by Tsuru)

• Whale and dolphin watching experience for 2 in Cork • A weekend for 2 in a 5* hotel in Ireland

• A case of champagne, various paintings, and much more...

For tickets or more information call 0207 729 7111 or 07957 891 709, email admin@artsforall.co.uk

Tickets £10 including ts refreshmen

Arts For All

Celebrating 10 years working among the wonderful children and adults of Shoreditch and the surrounding area, building confidence through creativity. www.artsforall.co.uk Charity registration no 1096859

A4_SD.indd 1

03/08/2011 16:16

Lady KILLER

“G

Hot rod or refined sports tourer? As far as Matthew Carter can see, Merc’s C63 AMG Coupé is a bit of both… and he gets a driving lesson at the same time

od, that was fun,” said the driver, a leading UK motoring hack. A colleague concurred. “I was completely sideways on one of those turns,” he said, a huge grin lighting up his face. They and two more scribes had just returned to the pits after three or four laps of a tight and twisty race track near Seville in Spain in the brand new Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, the hottest version yet of the C-Class Coupé. To point out the best racing line – or, more prosaically, to ensure that no-one got lost – they’d been sent out line astern behind a professional, a Mercedes works racer. The difference between those who can and those who think they can was never more profoundly stated. As the motoring writers took off their crash helmets, they revealed red faces covered in sweat, bodies drenched in perspiration

from the effort. The professional, on the other hand, looked immaculate. Not a hair out of place, not a bead of sweat, the red of her perfectly varnished nails contrasting dramatically with the brilliant white of her corporate shirt. Granted, Susie Stoddart had been driving the ultimate AMG machine, a gullwing SLS handsomely more powerful than the C63, but hers had been a gentle drive in the country, interrupted by the occasional need to get on the intercom and ask the stragglers at the back to keep up, please. Scottish-born, Swiss-domiciled Stoddart has been a Mercedes DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) race driver for five years, participating alongside (and often beating) the likes of David Coulthard in one of the fastest and most technical touring car race series in the world. She’s a slip of a thing but superbly talented

motoring

behind the wheel. Watching her from the passenger seat of the SLS made more sense to me than trying to keep up in a C63 which is the only reason I, too, wasn’t red of face. I know my place in the driver hierarchy. And besides, though it might be fun, thrashing a road car on the track is usually misleading. More important is to discover how it behaves in everyday use, whether the AMG package lifts what’s a pretty fine machine in normal guise to new heights. And it does. Replacing the lacklustre CLK and CLC models of the past – both being unhappy three door variants of the C-class saloon rather than true sporting versions – the new C-class coupé looks and drives the part. A rival for the handsome but soulless Audi A5 and the default choice that is the BMW 3-series coupé, the new Merc combines style with traditional M-B solidity. More tourer than racer, perhaps, the top logical choice is probably the C250 CDI auto, a turbo-charged four-cylinder diesel that delivers a fair turn of speed with remarkable good economy. But the C63 AMG is something else. Who cares about logic? A rival for the M3, at its heart is M-B’s awesome 6.2-litre V8 delivering 457 bhp to the rear wheels. Not enough? An extra £5,200 will buy you the Performance Package Plus which brings with it another 30bhp. This is an old-fashioned (in the proper send of the word) performance car: big engine up front, rear-wheel drive, well-sorted suspension free from too many electronic chassis gimmicks. It’s a hot rod, pure and simple, and at its heart is that glorious V8. Hand assembled by AMG, M-B’s performance arm, the twin turbo 6.2-litre V8, delivers on every level. At low speeds it has grunt to spare while at the top end it’s capable of frankly terrifying turns of speed. It will happily rumble around town but the second you show it a piece of clear road, it explodes. Jekyll and Hyde has nothing on the C63. It takes just 4.5 seconds to get to 62 mph (4.4 seconds and a top speed of 175mph rather than the capped 155mph max of the standard car if you opt for the performance package) and the performance accompanied by a deep bass scream from that V8. Yes it has a drink problem (you’ll be lucky to get anywhere near the quoted 23.5 mpg average) but this engine is so damn wonderful that it’s bound to be an endangered species. No-one’s allowed to have this much fun any more. The rest of the car matches the engine. The seven speed auto ‘box, complete with a Race Start mode, cannot be beaten while the chassis offers a brilliant compromise between touring car comfort and sports car sharpness and agility. It’s perhaps not quite as racy as the M3 but it’s a far better all-rounder. As you’d expect, it comes bristling with all manner of safety equipment – all with three letter acronyms – though, as ever,

it’s perfectly possible to bump up the sticker price by plundering the options list (carbon fibre interior trim package, £1,635, anyone?). The interior is, perhaps, a tad sombre in a functional M-B way and although it’s the same overall length as the C saloon, the rear quarters of the coupé are a little cramped, but this is the only criticism. More rounded than the M3 and far superior, dynamically, to the Audi S5, the C63 AMG Coupé is a fine machine. Still, one thing was lacking from the test drive. Sitting in the passenger seat alongside Ms. Stoddart in the SLS around the track was fun but ultimately proved little. It would have been far more illuminating to sit alongside her in the C63 out on the open road: I’ve a hunch that it really would have been a case of woman and machine in perfect harmony. n

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IN BRIEF Car: Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupé Price: £56,665 Engine: 2,179 cc four-cylinder diesel Power: 457 hp Drive: Rear-wheel drive Performance: 155 mph max, 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds

calibre motoring

MORE KUBANGS FOR YOUR BUCK

Matthew Carter gets down and dirty with Maserati

hat does the name Maserati conjure up for you? Probably luxury sports cars, high performance saloons and, if you’re a little older, race winning Grand Prix cars too. Not SUVs. But that’s about to change. One of the biggest surprises at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show was the Kubang, a large 4x4 wearing the Maserati Trident badge in the middle of its large grille. While the purists might shudder, there’s a sound business reason for Maser making a mudplugger, though the chances of one ever getting its wheels dirty are remote. The luxury sport ‘utility’ vehicle is everywhere – Range Rover, Audi Q7, Infiniti FX, BMW X6 – so why not produce a high-riding Maserati with dynamic looks and performance to match? That’s the theory behind Kubang. The practicalities behind the car, though, are rather more prosaic. Maserati is owned by Fiat which also now owns Chrysler and Jeep. Yes, under that handsome body lies the 4x4 technology (and much else) of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

At least it does for the show car, still officially described as a concept. The production version, however, will be infused with Maserati DNA, the firm promises. Looks, engine, suspension, brakes, handling and performance will all be pure Maserati, in “picture-perfect continuity with the brand’s core values of sportiness, style, elegance, luxury, performance and craftsmanship”, so they say. Maserati is also promising an all-new engine designed under the watchful eye by Paolo Martinelli, a past engine chief of the Ferrari F1 team (another brand in the Fiat portfolio). Range Rover, watch out. n

exceeding your expectations

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FUEL FOR THOUGHT Matthew Carter is very impressed with BMW’s attempts to marry supercar performance with hatchback economy – but it’s a shame the 650i has no soul

his is going to sound a touch bizarre but one of the most significant figures about the new BMW 650i is not its top speed (limited, as ever, to 155 mph), nor the fact that this heavyweight Bimmer takes a little less than five seconds to sprint from rest to 60mph. No, the you-got-to-be-kidding-me fact is that you can get more than 25 miles on each gallon, without having to adopt absurd fuel saving measures – you know, 45mph in the inside lane. Like all manufacturers, BMW is striving to clean up its act with cars that use less fuel than before, and which don’t chuck out as much in the way of emissions, yet lose nothing in the way of performance or refinement. BeeEm’s answer is what it calls Efficient Dynamics. Smaller but more powerful engines, lighter materials, that sort of thing. Back in the day, the ‘50i’ bit on the end of a BMW’s badge signified a 5.0-litre V12 engine. It was a glorious thing, smooth and powerful but with a serious drink problem.

But for some time the 650i has been powered by nothing grander than a 4.4-litre V8 and the latest in the line is no different. Not that that’s a bad thing; the BMW V8 drivetrain, twin turbos and all, is one of the best in the world. But more of that in a moment: first, let’s look at the new 6-series, launched earlier this year and initially available in convertible form only. A conventional two-door coupé is due soon, however, and both will be joined next year by a Mercedes CLS-baiting four-door coupé. Although essentially new from the ground up, the latest 6 follows a pretty familiar pattern – big, long bonnet, acres of room for two in the front, two pretty pointless rear seats (though the rear compartment is larger than before), a roomy boot and a fabric roof that takes 19 seconds to lower – and a few more to raise. It also retains one neat feature from the last model, the small, glass rear window that can be lowered independently to increase the flow of fresh air through the cabin without having to go

motoring

the whole hog and lower the roof. With the top down, the window remains in place to act as a wind jammer to prevent buffeting. In the British climate, though, you’ll drop the window more often than the roof. To my eyes at least, it also looks a whole lot better than its predecessor. The outgoing car suffered that curious ‘afterthought’ clamshell boot lid that looked like then design chief Chris Bangle had forgotten to include one in his original sketches. The new car is handsome, and mature even, if a little conservative. The interior, too, is a master class in how it should be done. The sat nav screen is readably large while its rotary control now works intuitively, unlike the original version a few years ago. The test car came with head-up display, an option worth every penny of its £980 tag. In a car this fast and this easy to drive, a constant reminder of your speed and the prevailing speed limit displayed in your line of vision is a real licence saver. This brings us back to that drivetrain. The engine is unbelievably flexible which, when

calibre

matched to BMW’s latest eight speed auto, provides overtaking performance that’s barely believable. It’s all delivered without fuss or drama and with fuel economy exceptional for such a large V8. As a Grand Tourer the 650i is almost without rival. As a sports car, though, it lacks on a number of levels. The car is heavier than before and feels it, while the steering is never communicative. This is not a machine for point and squirt driving, despite its vastly complex electronic Adaptive Drive chassis (a £3,400 option) which gives the driver four different settings – Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ – to chose from. After many miles of experimentation I reverted to the default Normal setting, which gives a cosseting ride at the expense of handling precision and steering feel. Sport sharpens the handling but ruins ride comfort. And as for Sport +, let’s just say that every IN BRIEF setting is a compromise. In the end I decided that the £3,400 saved would Car: BMW 650i SE Convertible be better spent elsewhere: as ever with a BMW, there’s ample opportunity to spend more than the sticker price by ticking a few extra options; the test car came with nearly £12,000 worth of extras. You can get a brand new Mini for less. In so many ways the 650i is a lovely thing – and the engine is a peach – but the whole is ultimately uninvolving. And that’s why, I guess, I got more excited by its fuel economy than its performance. Bizarre indeed. n

Price: £73,430 Engine: 4,395 cc V8-cylinder petrol Power: 402 hp Drive: Rear-wheel drive Performance: 155 mph max (limited), 0-62 mph in 5.0seconds

www.vgnewtrend.it

ph. Andrea Pancino C

VG Studio at

inspirations vision

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www.idesign-int.com info@inspirationsoftickhill.co.uk Tel: 01302 760040

interview fashion interiors

bespoke tailoring tom ford ............... rock star glamour .....................

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The Ivy League Man

Ralph Lauren launches Europe’s first ever rugby brand, demonstrating the company’s commitment to heritage with a collegiateinspired collection

hink Brideshead Revisited meets the European Rugby World Cup. These two juxtaposing images perfectly sum up Polo Ralph Lauren’s stylish, sporty rugby brand which finally arrived on the streets of London this September. The luxury brand loved worldwide couldn’t have chosen a more appropriate place to house its newest European store. Situated in the heart of London’s Covent Garden Piazza in an historic 16th century baroque building, the new line of rugby apparel has been designed with both men and women in mind. Grand architectural

designs, such as corniced ceilings, galleries and a magnificent grand entry hall, emphasise not only the authenticity of this once-upon-a-time stately home but the surrounding interior also perfectly compliments the range of traditional attire, inspired by the modern college man. Expect to find a tempting array of Oxford cloth shirts, chino pants, Shetland sweaters, authentic tweed sports-coats and fine tailored suits. If stylish, preppy chic is your thing, Rugby Covent Garden is the best place to visit this autumn. n www.ralphlauren.com

Happy Hour Add the finishing touch to your cocktail cabinet with this sterling silver-mounted Duck Decanter from Searle & Co. With sleek flowing lines, the Duck Decanter is the epitome of elegant silverware. Jewellers and silversmiths in London since 1893, Searle & Co. uses classic quality English craftsmanship in all its pieces. Relax and pour yourself a drink in style.

The Skin You’re In Kiehl’s has been an expert in facial care since 1851. This autumn you can indulge your skin with the luxurious Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment For Men – the company’s first skincare product created explicitly and exclusively for men. Designed to wake up and revive weary and neglected skin, Facial Fuel is made using the natural ingredients soy extract and Vitamins C and E. A must-have for hiding a multitude of sins.

Sterling Silver-mounted Duck Decanter, £1,250

Facial Fuel, Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men, £22.50

1 Royal Exchange 020 7626 2456

14–15 Royal Exchange 020 7283 6661

It’s a

Mans World

Gentlemen, it’s time to spoil yourselves this autumn with stylish silver and smart black accessories from the Royal Exchange. Ladies, purchase presents to ensure the men in your life look and smell suave, whether in hats for weekends or swimming trunks on holiday

Black, White and Gold

Tackle Time

The Gentleman Ring from fine jewellery house Bachet is part of the deluxe men’s collection by the eponymous French designer, David Bachet. With a stylish combination of white and black diamonds, this handcrafted 18-carat white gold ring embraces simplicity in style. An inventor of exquisite rings, Bachet creates all its fine jewellery in France. Designed for the modern gentleman, this dynamic ring is the perfect complement to any ensemble.

Bulgari introduces a special edition Haute Horlogerie in conjunction with the celebrated All Blacks New Zealand rugby team. The Bulgari Endurer Chronosprint All Blacks Special Edition watch features a rubber strap and sleek steel case with a Diamond Like Carbon treatment, giving the watch a unique combination of endurance and elegance. This magnificent timepiece is presented in a leather rugby ball case, which is stamped with the famous All Blacks logo.

Gentleman Ring in 18-carat White Gold with White Diamond Baguette and Black Diamond pave, £2,200 12 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 3405 1437

Bulgari Endurer Chronosprint All Blacks Special Edition, £9,350 15 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 7283 4580

Perfectly Tailored British Perfumery Penhaligon’s launches new eau de toilette Sartorial this season, taking inspiration from the famous suiting district of Savile Row, and no discerning gentleman should be without it. The unique scents of the workroom of bespoke tailors Norton & Sons informs the masculine, subtle fragrance as violet and lavender notes mix with the evocative aromas of wood and leather. Penhaligon’s Sartorial is a fragrance that oozes London style – don’t leave the house sans Sartorial this winter.

Dashing Gentleman

Sartorial Eau de Toilette 100ml, £80

Signature Trilby Suede Furfelt – Mid Blue, £230

4 Royal Exchange 020 7623 3131

6 Royal Exchange 020 7626 3636

Laird & Co. Hatters has a stylish selection of luxury British hats and caps for all occasions. The Signature Trilby is a classic addition to any man’s collection, a historical style elegantly brought forward for the modern man. Available in an assortment of deluxe colours, this dignified suede furfelt is perfect for the dashing gentleman this season.

Aloha! Vilebrequin presents MERISE Hawai Pop; luxury French men’s swimwear. Originally created out of spinnaker sailing canvas, the MERISE are made with elasticated fabric and have new pockets and magnetic buttons. Vilebrequin began as a men’s swimwear company in the 1970s in Saint-Tropez, and the brand now offers a full collection of linen shirts and trousers, Bermuda shorts, towels, sunhats, sunglasses and beach bags. What better excuse to escape the onset of winter for some fun in the sun? MERISE Hawai Pop, £180

26 Royal Exchange 020 3206 1022

Quick Silver Tateossian has created the Urushi collection, a new line of sterling silver bracelets submerged in a black or white lacquer. The result is striking, simultaneously chic and classic and perfect to wear alone or for stacking with multiple bracelets. Founded by financier Robert Tateossian, originally as a cufflink specialist, the repertoire of this sophisticated jewellery house has expanded to include women’s and men’s jewellery and luxury watches. Tateossian Urushi Silver Bracelet, £295 1/4 Royal Exchange 020 7283 3434

Agent Provocateur || Artisan Fine Art || Bachet || Boodles || Bulgari || Church’s || Crockett & Jones || De Beers Gucci || HeRMes || Jo Malone || Kiehls || Laird & Co Hatters || L’Occitane || Loro Piana || Lulu Guinness || Milleperle Molton Brown || Montblanc || Omega || Paul A. Young Fine Chocolates || Paul Smith || Penhaligon’s Pretty Ballerinas || Royal Exchange Jewellers || Searle & Co || Smoker’s Paradise || Smythson || Tateossian Theo Fennell || Tiffany & Co || Vilebrequin || Watches of Switzerland

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

www.theroyalexchange.co.uk

fashion

concierge

fashion

news

Spencer Hart opens flagship store Following its launch in Selfridges earlier this year, last month saw Savile Row tailor Spencer Hart open its new flagship store on Mayfair’s Brook Street. Favoured by celebrities ranging from David Bowie and Robbie Williams to Jay-Z and Jamie Foxx, Spencer Hart has earned a reputation as one of Britain’s most dynamic tailoring companies, thanks largely to its signature slim-fit suits and ‘less is more’ ethos. In a step that takes Spencer Hart away from formal wear, the new Palm Springs collection will include denim, chinos, underwear and luggage. 62-64 Brook St, Mayfair www.spencerhart.com

Quote of the month:

Bruno Senna for Lotus If you’re aiming to redefine ‘racing chic’ as the ultimate gentleman’s sportswear choice this season, then teaming up with Formula One’s Bruno Senna – nephew of the legendary three-times Formula One World Champion Ayrton Senna – isn’t a bad way to start. As the face of Lotus Originals’ new A/W11 campaign, Senna offers a dynamic front for a brand

revered for pioneering style and high performance. As well as hand-treated leather jackets, inspired by 1970s drivers’ suits, the collection features a range of classic chinos and cashmere blend v-necks from a palette of the brand’s signature colours; Lotus green, navy and red.

With a suit, always wear big British shoes, the ones with large welts. There’s nothing worse than dainty little Italian jobs at the end of the leg line.

www.lotusoriginals.com

David Bowie

Website:

TREND:

Rockstar footwear from Jeffery West

A bible for all things to do with men’s fashion and updated daily by fashion experts, fashionbeans.com features the latest in news, style and emerging trends. As well as showcasing style icons and profiling top designers, the website provides grooming advice and ‘how to wear it’ tips. Visit now to discover which five items men should own this A/W.

Fair Isle Knitwear

They are the English shoemakers who refuse to conform to classic shapes and cuts and their footwear adorns the feet of City workers and Hollywood legends alike. Last year Jeffery West won ‘Men’s Fashion Retailer of the Year’ at the London Lifestyle Awards and there’s every chance the brand will retain its crown in 2011 thanks to its range of rockstar inspired shoes.

www.fashionbeans.com

MUST-HAVE ITEM:

Menswear got playful this year with colour blocking and vibrant patterns dominating the catwalks. Heading into winter, extroverted styles will continue to trend thanks to Fair Isle Knitwear. Named after a traditional knitting technique practised on a tiny island in the Shetlands, Fair Isle patterns add a light-hearted touch to traditional heritage wear. We’re sure even your grandmother will approve of this YMC burgundy knit from my-wardrobe.com.

Dressed to

Dave Waddell speaks to Mark Lord about modern-day tailoring, period costume-making and why every selfrespecting gentleman should embrace the waistcoat

the Nines

interview

“I

’ll be wearing a suit with a purple and green paisley doublebreasted velvet waistcoat.” Mark Lord of ML Bespoke Tailoring, film costumier, designer, consultant and champion of the three-piece suit, is meeting me at Limehouse train station. We’ve never met, hence the description. I know his clothes, I know his reputation and I know that the depth of his knowledge of period clothing sets him apart in the super-sophisticated world of menswear styling, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. Dressed in a green worsted single-breasted suit, the aforementioned waistcoat (exactly as described), a purple and white needle pinstripe shirt, rusted silk tie and a pair of patent green leather shoes, Lord is, as Thomas Carlyle once said, “a clothes-wearing man.” For Lord, and for his clients, being such a man means knowing what matters in one’s choice of suit. It means having a sense of the quality of a fabric, of a suit’s cut, of what to wear with it and on what occasion. After an afternoon at his home on Narrow Street, pouring over Mark Lord suits, jackets, shirts and ties, and then at Canary Wharf’s stunningly lit Battery Club, I can see why he has chosen this particular suit. Cut from fabrics supplied by Holland & Sherry of Savile Row, hand-stitched and sporting a double vent, peaked lapels, slanted pockets, an outside ticket pocket and surgeon’s cuffs, it’s a real work of art; the muted greens and the wonderful subtlety of its design complement perfectly a day spent surrounded by beautiful things. However, I am especially fascinated by the waistcoat. It is bright, elaborate and its wide lapels seem to come from another time. “It’s a 1820s – or 1830s – period piece.” Lord’s love for contemporised period clothing stems from nearly 20 years spent in the film business. A graduate from Central Saint Martins, and with a background both in PR and fashion, he went to work first for Angels Costume House, then as a freelance costume and wardrobe designer. Starting out at Angels as a tailor “making period clothing”, the excellence of his eye, as well as his ability to make, saw him quickly promoted to fully fledged costumier. The experience of fitting

actors – of preparing “wardrobes for every scene”, of working on several productions a week – a baptism of fire and an invaluable grounding in the art of selection, textural authenticity and bespoke tailoring. His name made at Angels, Lord’s jump to freelance was a relatively smooth affair, and especially so given the fact that his first costumier project, on Marleen Gorris’s The Luzhin Defence, with John Turturro and Emily Watson, was a period piece. Spent on location in Hungary, Lord’s responsibility for costume meant his having to scour Budapest’s flea markets for 1920s clothes. It was hard, demanding and just the start he needed. From there, he would go on to work on, among others, the Emmy awardwinning Victoria and Albert, on Spooks with the likes of Matthew Macfadyen and Keely Hawes, on Guy Richie’s RocknRolla, with Rupert Everett and Emilia Fox on Silent Witness, and most recently on Mikael Håfström’s Shanghai, where his job was “to specifically look after John Cusack.” Lord’s waistcoat is suffused with the knowledge, craftsmanship and creativity required of a first-rate tailor but designed, as he says, to “liven up the suit”, its period feel a shockingly refreshing contrast to the suit, it is also the work of a consummate costumier, as knowing as it is finely made. Clothes, to Lord, are more than objects. They are a kind of magical tool and they ”unlock something in people they didn’t realise they had”, which is why, I suspect, he so enjoys the act of fitting. His understanding of the relationship between people – their needs, work and leisure pursuits – and the clothes they wear is exactly that which has enabled him to move so successfully from the world of makebelieve to that of making believe, from film set to setting up a business which offers an individually tailored, men’s luxury lifestyle service. Dressing actors authentically is not a million miles away from dressing men in such a way as to make them “feel themselves.” Which is exactly the substance of Lord’s love for the waistcoat. He calls it his “unique selling point”, and it does bring out the aesthete in him, but Lord’s no dandy; not at least in a Bauderlairean sense. He’s much too passionate, cares way too much

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for people and he knows it isn’t for everyone. Neither an affectation, nor a cultivation of the self for the self’s sake, he is dressed in an 1820s styled purple and green paisley doublebreasted velvet waistcoat because he likes it. It brings him joy. He is simply being himself. n Contact Mark Lord by phone, on 020 7205 2171 / 07866 581230 or by email: mark@marklordlondon.co.uk. For more information visit www.marklordlondon.co.uk Angels Costume House supply costumes for TV, film and theatre. For more information visit www.angels.uk.com Battery Club is a member of the Alphabet Group and it is open on weekdays For more information visit www.thebatteryclub.co.uk

Photographer:

Jon Cottam Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

Black resille tulle satin stitch cocktail dress, ÂŁ4,940

Black cocktail dress, as before, black lace up stilettos, ÂŁ750 Black tights, ÂŁ26, Wolford, 020 7491 3233, www.wbw1.com

Black wool, crepe velvet patch pocket, fitted jacket, £2,086 and panelled skirt, £830, black silk, draped neck blouse, £1,430, black tassel stilettos, £800, black Individual 5 tights £26, Wolford, as before

Peacock blue liquid velvet ruched jacket, £2,545 and skirt, £1,010

Black and nude lace wrap dress with plisse detail, £4,560, black suede cut-out cuissardes, £4,250, red stone earrings, £950

All clothes and accessories available from Tom Ford at Harrods, 020 7730 1234 www.tomford.com

Hair & Make-Up: Katie Pettigrew using MAC Cosmetics

Photography Assistant: Jo Zuroska-Leigh

luxuryl o n d o n From decadent diamonds to leather that will last a lifetime, visit The Burlington Arcade for the ultimate luxury shopping experience

Arcad e

Britain’s oldest shopping arcade in the heart of Mayfair, a landmark prestigious shopping destination providing exquisite luxury.

BEADLE

The knowledgeable uniformed guards of the Burlington Arcade, the Beadles, have been a feature of the luxurious promenade since it opened in 1819, when they were employed by Lord Cavendish to keep behaviour in order. Under the watch of the Head Beadle, each one has the power to eject any visitor who dares to flout the rules.

S pa rk l e & Sh ine

As the great Elizabeth Taylor once said, “Big girls need big diamonds”. The Burlington Arcade, and surrounding area, houses some of the finest jewellery shops in the world and is therefore the ideal place to buy your own sensational stones – big or small – to treasure forever.

Arm Candy

The right handbag can be one of the wisest investments you’ll ever make. Thomas Lyte has the ultimate bag for ladies; silklined and in ultra-soft leather, this neat camel-coloured clutch is a classic staple that will go with everything, lasting for years to come.

Lo ndon’s Best Kept Secr et Joe’s high profile celebrity client list has made him one of the most sought-after hairdressers in London.

KIR ROYALE

exquisite jewel s

Sophie Anderton models vintage jewellery for Susannah Lovis. A treasure trove of London’s rarest and collectable jewels can be found at Burlington Arcade.

Lu x u r i ous Leather

Real luxury leather is about more than just fashion; it’s about quality design and long-lasting function that will survive for years to come. Products on offer in the Arcade are designed to the highest standard possible, so you can treasure them forever.

Stop for a classic cocktail at the nearby 5th View, a stunning art deco bar on the fifth floor of Waterstones – the largest book store in Europe. Relax and take in some of the most impressive views of the city, including The Royal Academy, Fortnum and Mason and St James’s gardens.

Ca s h m e r e

The softest fabric imaginable, Cashmere is the ultimate weapon in battling the London weather in style and was a big feature on the A/W 11 catwalks. Burlington Arcade houses some of the top names in this chicest of knits, including N. Peal, John Smedley and Ballantyne cashmere at Berk, and House of Cashmere – that’s winter all wrapped up!

Sweet Treats

The chic French macaroons from Ladurée make the perfect sweet treat for anyone old or young. The cute pastel tones evoke a playful air of indulgence and make the perfect dinner party gift.

A selection of bags from Pickett, Church’s and Vilebrequin

N. Peal

Heaven Scent

Christian Dior once said that a women’s perfume says more about her than her handwriting. Whether you prefer the seductive scent of amber, a fresh burst of jasmine, or a hint of sweet vanilla, visit Penhaligon’s, one of England’s most established perfumers, to ensure you find your perfect fragrance.

Bespoke Tai lor i n g

T ime l ess

Rolex watches will keep you punctual for afternoon tea at Claridge’s or mark the minutes of a sunset over the Thames. Burlington jeweller David Duggan showcases a stunning selection of quality vintage timepieces.

Nearby Savile Row, known as the “golden mile of tailoring”, has become synonymous with great craftsmanship and iconic tailoring, drawing well-dressed men from all over the world looking for classic bespoke suits.

Fancy Footwork

Step out in style with traditionally handcrafted shoes from master-shoemakers Crockett and Jones.

For more information visit

www.burlington-arcade.co.uk

www.boconcept.co.uk

Marie in Shanghai

Urban Danish Design since 1952 Welcome to a new collection of urban Danish Design. Based on the Danish Design traditions of simplicity and functionality, we create furniture that is not only beautiful but useful too. That was the vision of two Danish craftsmen back in 1952. And that is how we work today. Come and visit us in store and speak to a consultant about our free Interior Design Service and pick up the new 2012 catalogue now.

BoConcept TCR 路 158 Tottenham Court Road 路 London W1T 7NH 路 0207 388 2447

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Marc Cain A collection which will appeal just as much to fashion buffs as interiors enthusiasts is the limited edition collection of cushions and throws from Marc Cain. Each piece has been hand-finished and is crafted from lamb’s leather, cow hide or fur. The blankets are made from high quality fleece and continue the line’s use of a neutral yet luxurious colour palette. Items will be available from the beginning of November. www.marc-cain.com

City Style

Beautiful Boudoir Agent Provocateur is known for its playful irreverence and its first homeware collection, released this autumn, is rich in seductive colours, luxurious fabrics and interesting details. Options include the brand’s signature black and pink

shades across high quality cotton bedding, as well as 100 per cent silk designs in a dramatic berry tone. Stylish towels for the beach and bathroom, eye masks and cushions complete the first drop.

Muralto is a contemporary interior showroom in Portman Village which offers high quality and quirky European designs in London. The store is frequented by architects, stylists and in-the-know private clients who visit to snap up chairs bedecked in funky prints, statement tables and everything in between. It’s our new discovery and an address you should definitely add to your little black book. www.muralto.co.uk

www.agentprovocateur.com

Wentworth 2.5-Seater Sofa, £1,790, Oka, www.okadirect.com

Fabulous Themes Ever since the new season’s look book from Oka arrived at the office, we’ve been debating which story is our favourite. The stylish brand has developed furniture and accessories around six equally chic themes this autumn, including the simple elegance of a Parisian Apartment (rustic metalwork, fake flowers and chandeliers), London Living (smart sofas, vintage style rugs and handsome wood), Nordic Tranquility and Safari Lodge (tribal print throws, distressed trunks and carved ornaments). www.okadirect.com

the trend Create a look that embodies rock star glamour using a grand colour palette of gold and black, high-end musical accessories and a mix of luxurious textures

Metis Plus Bedroom Range, from £4,441 Hulsta, www.hulsta.co.uk

Bar Climo, £17,995, Katharine Pooley www.katharinepooley.com

Woman with Music No. 14 soap, £14 Tokyo Milk, www.selfridges.com

Black Crystal Fatima Candle £130, Harrods, www.harrods.com Reference 201/2 Loudspeaker in Satin Sycamore, £3,000, Kef Store www.kefstore.co.uk

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One Light Only Large Bedroom Light by Lee Broom from £305, Heal’s, www.heals.co.uk

Cassettes Wallpaper in Chalkboard/Gold £45, Bodie and Fou, www.bodieandfou.com

Courtly Check Three Tier Sweet Stand, £529, Mackenzie Child www.harrods.com

C. Bechstein model “L” Grand piano in black £POA, Robert Morley & Company www.morleypianos.com Kelly Hoppen for Welton Scented Candle, £38 Kelly Hoppen, www.kellyhoppen.com

Ace of Spades Brut Gold Champagne £233.59, Armand de Brignac www.thedrinkshop.com

concierge interiors Dragoneth Bench and Daydream Library Unit £POA, Anna Casa Interiors, www.annacasa.net

Fig Side Table with Black Lacquer Top, French Brass £POA, Porta Romana, www.amara.co.uk

Amatista Cushion, £19.90, Zara Home www.zarahome.com

Sanctuary Wing Chair, £4,125, Alma www.almahome.co.uk

Bowl Preto, £495, Katharine Pooley www.katharinepooley.com

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Gold Medal Fitness for Busy People

There aren’t many of us who can win a Gold Medal aged 20, and return to the same sport aged 40 aiming to win another next year. But that’s exactly what Greg Searle is attempting. So what is different this time around? Well, the British Rowing system has changed a lot, but the most significant change is that Greg now has a family and finds that he loses fitness faster than 20 years ago. There is a simple solution though, a Concept2 indoor rower in the spare room at home. It provides him with the perfect quick training session so he is away from his family less

while still getting a great all body workout. Not everyone has to have the same level of commitment that Greg has (he snuck away from the celebrations on Christmas Day 2009 to do a 5000m test in the spare bedroom!). For us mere mortals, just 20 minutes three times a week promises improved energy, better fitness, and probably a trimmer waistline. For those willing to put in a little more effort…the opportunities are limitless…as Greg is hoping!

To find out more about the Concept2 Indoor Rower and how it would improve your health & fitness visit our website at concept2.co.uk where you can download the Free training guide, or create your own interactive training programme. If you would like to talk to one of our knowledgeable staff please call 0115 945 5522 today or you could check out what Greg Searle is up to on concept2.co.uk/greg ROWING

Concept2 Limited Vermont House Nottingham NG11 7HQ | 0115 945 5522 | info@concept2.co.uk | www.concept2.co.uk

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Join in • 9 ZUMBA Classes Per Week • New Boxing Zone • Enhanced Free Weights Area No Annual Contract Already a member? Refer a friend & receive a £50 VOUCHER 0207 970 0911 Offer ends 31/10/11

info@reebokclub.co.uk

reebokclub.co.uk

health & fitness

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health & fitness

news

Raw Fairies 5-day detox

Quick Fix Fitness As nights draw in, and it becomes increasingly cold, it’s harder than ever to drum up the motivation to go to the gym and keep fit. Is there a speedy way to do so, to avoid wasting time in the search for the perfect physique? Terry O’Neill, Olympic Rowing Coach and Training Guru at Concept2, offers the following, fast track solution: “Busy people often ask me what they should do to get fit or stay fit without training for hours and hours every week. In fact, I was asked so many times that I’ve created a specific training program for people who can only commit to a couple of hours a week. I call it the Fast Track Training Program. It’s interactive, accessed at www.concept2.co.uk/training and it explains how you train four times per week, but because the sessions are short, each session needs to be done at high intensity. It’s not easy but it gets results – fast.”

Combining the skills of Cordon-Bleu trained chef Anya Ladra with the nutritional expertise of Christina Agnew, Raw Fairies is the number one luxury food delivery service in London. The concept is to aid detoxification and for five days, clients receive a selection of gourmet raw food, fresh fruit and vegetable juices, and nutritionist-designed supplements. Combining raw and organic ingredients provides vitamins and minerals and avoids the loss of energising enzymes through cooking. Our tester slept better, had more energy and clearer skin and lost four pounds. Whether you want to trim down before a holiday or special event or kick start a healthier lifestyle, Raw Fairies packages, discreetly delivered to your home or office, makes detoxing and healthy eating simple, easy and convenient. Raw Fairies 5-day detox, £295 www.rawfairies.com

please Email training@concept2.co.uk for more information

City of Sport Get ready for the Olympics with a new sport and physical activity programme. The City of Sport is designed to help workers from across the Square Mile get fitter, faster, healthier and stronger just in time for London 2012. The Greater London Authority, City of London Corporation and Interactive have teamed up to focus on getting everyone active. Whatever your level of fitness, purse size or schedule, you’re invited to get involved. Whether it’s running through the City streets on a mini urban assault course, trying out your swing at the only outdoor golf driving range, joining the only netball training session in the Square Mile or trying Zumba with friends, the City of Sport caters for all sporting interests and abilities. www.cityofsport.org

Boxing Clever Having grown from a single gym into a complete lifestyle brand, with the legendary Ring Boxing Club in Southwark as its headquarters, Cityboxer provides an amazing environment to keep fit. All the exceptional trainers understand that the clients expect a great experience with boxing and that’s what is provided. From non-contact boxing training to supervised sparring with a coach or fellow club member, Cityboxer allows people to enjoy the art of boxing whatever their age, sex or physical condition. The Ring Boxing Club, 70 Ewer Street www.cityboxer.com

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the heart of

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

travel magical morocco food & drink the drift escape scottish castles .....................................

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Giles Deacon ‘Crystalz’ Bar from the GREY GOOSE Character and Cocktails Ball 2008

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Exceptional Taste

For the first time in its 50 year history, the culinary might of the worldrenowned El Bulli is coming to the UK: welcome to the GREY GOOSE Winter Ball

n 29 October, Grey Goose is joining forces with the three Michelinstarred El Bulli team to push guests’ gastronomic boundaries further than ever before. The world-class supper will be presided over by El Bulli’s legendary head chef Ferran Adria, praised as the “best cook on the planet”. Before its closure in July, El Bulli received more than two million applications to dine there each year, with spaces for only 8,000. Expect mind-blowing food, spectacular cocktails and a specially themed location in Battersea Park. Look out for cocktail bars, and bespoke cocktails,

created by top shoe designer Christian Louboutin and British artist Marc Quinn; it has become a tradition for Grey Goose to work with flamboyant characters from the worlds of fashion and art, including Roland Mouret and Giles Deacon, to create custom-made bars that are auctioned at the Ball. As Official Vodka Sponsor of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Grey Goose has raised more than £1.8 million for the Foundation to date. n Contact the charity on 020 7603 9996 for tickets. 100 per cent of the ticket price is donated directly to the Elton John AIDS Foundation

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Battersea Park 20 – 23 Oct 2011 London

Hampstead Heath 27 – 30 Oct 2011 London

Two Fairs. Two Parks. Two Weeks. Contemporary art under £4,000 affordableartfair.co.uk

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Autumn Retreat Leading luxury eco destination the Scarlet, in Cornwall, has launched a set of authentic personalised Ayurvedic programmes to get the mind and body back on track. There are different types of Escape, created in line with the ancient Indian philosophy of wellness, and classes on offer include yoga, Nordic walking and even singing lessons. www.scarlethotel.co.uk

Chocolate Heaven

For a truly luxurious escape that draws inspiration from the healing cultures of the local area, you can’t do better at this time of year than the Spa Village at Pangkor Laut in Malaysia. Tapping into the regions’ history and traditions, treatments at Spa Village combine the therapeutic properties of a range of traditional therapies, including birds’ nest facials and the intriguing ‘egg rolling

therapy’. Boasting a stunning range of decadent suites, Pangkor Laut is a sanctuary of luxury and well-being, steeped in age-old Malay traditions. We love the Malay Scalp Treatment for combating migraines, while the amazing Udwarthanam helps aid weight loss and a stay in either the Suria or Purnama suites is sure to rejuvenate you. www.pangkorlautresort.com

Truffle Season Arrives Hotel Principe di Savoia, Dorchester Collection’s iconic Milanese hotel, is offering the ultimate in luxury foraging. Its divine Truffle Tasting Package, available throughout October and November, offers foodies the opportunity to discover the art of truffling first hand on an exclusive truffle hunt around the beautiful woodlands of Roddi with a guide and dogs. An entirely unique epicurean experience. The three night package, ideal for lovers of haute-cuisine and adventurous activities, also includes a four course lunch at Acanto, featuring black truffle, as well as full use of the hotel’s facilities and spa. Guests also have access to a personal chauffeur to and from the cities of Alba and Roddi. www.hotelprincipedisavoia.com

Travel Fact A total of 17,508 islands makes up Indonesia, an archipelago that is populated by 238 million people and has the world’s largest population of Muslims

Website of the month:

www.viator.com

Ancient traditions and local luxury

A veritable hymn to the humble and holy cacao bean, the annual Eurochocolate Festival in Perugia, Umbria, has a focus on local and regional specialities but also features chocolate expertise from around the world.

This great site offers some of the best, and most diverse, in high end travel experiences, including designing your own personalised perfume in Paris, after hours tours of the Pyramids and Sistine Chapel or private plane tours. Trips are categorised by areas of interest - family, food, wine, VIP - and can provide some of the most unique and exclusive experience the world has to offer.

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

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live like

a Laird

Annabel Goldie-Morrison crosses the border into Scotland to explore castles and houses designed not only to impress but also to give pleasure and a sense of escapism to all lucky enough to cross their thresholds

here’s nothing quite like throwing a house party in a Scottish castle – all the grandeur you could desire, plus comfort, service and genial Highland hospitality. Loyd & Townsend-Rose organises bespoke holidays to a fantastic range of castles throughout Scotland, where the key is privacy, service and spectacular surroundings. Whether it’s a family holiday, shooting trip or celebration, all your needs will be taken care of – just relax and enjoy the glorious surroundings. We explored three of the best properties in LTR’s Elite Portfolio.

Aldourie Castle Lying on the shores of the fabled Loch Ness, Aldourie Castle is a vision of fairytale grandeur. There are turrets, towers, nooks and crannies aplenty and it has recently been completely, and sensitively, restored into a luxurious yet intimate home. Set in 500 acres of highland countryside, with lawns leading from the castle down to Loch Ness, the gardens and woodland have been returned to the splendour of their 19th century heyday and the original kitchen gardens have been preserved. The castle is rich in history and great attention has been

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paid to its heritage and period detail; rich fabrics, elegant furniture and fine antiques are in abundance. Sleeping up to 28, the 15 bedrooms range from grand four-posters to cosy single rooms and each has a charm and personality of its own, with distinctive furnishings and decor. The bathrooms are spectacular, many of which are bigger than the bedrooms, and some have vast Victorian baths and hand-painted murals. There’s plenty to do on the estate and further afield. Relax by the roaring fire in the opulent Red Drawing Room, chill out in the Games Room, go for a bracing walk, try clay pigeon shooting, archery or quad biking, or, in season, go fishing or game shooting. Aldourie Castle has a private marina from which you can take a boat tour around Loch Ness, including lunch or dinner, or just an exhilarating RIB (rigid inflatable boat) ride up to Urquhart Castle.

Ackergill Tower

Main image / top right: Aldourie Castle Below / right: Ackergill Tower

Is there anything more romantic than a castle by the sea? Perched on the most northerly tip of mainland UK, Ackergill Tower is a doyenne amongst castles, dating back to 1476. Seclusion doesn’t have to mean inaccessible – Ackergill is only four miles from Wick Airport, with daily flights from Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Despite having the service and amenities of a five star hotel, Ackergill puts every effort into ensuring that it feels like your own for the time you are there. Ackergill Tower can accommodate up to 48 guests in 25 bedrooms, all of which are en suite. Some of the bedrooms look out towards the sea, over Sinclair Bay, and others look inland over the gardens and croquet lawn. Here alarm clocks are redundant, as you are roused in the morning by bagpipes playing outside your room and a welcome cup of tea is placed by your bedside. Up for a hearty Scottish breakfast (porridge is compulsory), it’s then off to enjoy to the great outdoors. There’s golf, archery, clay pigeon, rifle and game shooting, stalking, falconry, fishing, walking and sightseeing to keep you busy here. In nearby John O’Groats you can take a boat tour out towards the Orkney Islands or head to Castle of Mey to have a look around the Scottish retreat of the late Queen Mother. Lunch can be a picnic on the sandy beach outside Ackergill Tower or perhaps an indoor barbeque of venison sausages and monkfish at the bothie on Loch Killimster. After an afternoon of outdoor pursuits, or perhaps relaxing in the Tower with a massage or a good book by the fire, Afternoon Tea is laid out in the drawing room – a cornucopia of homemade cakes, scones, biscuits, jams and hot drinks. The warmth of a roaring fire while a wild sea rages in the bay outside is enough to make anyone feel cosy and content. The former coach house has been converted into the Opera House, where musical and drama performances, parties and ceilidhs can take place. There’s also a huge tree house in the grounds, for meetings, events or dinners. Dinner itself is held in the medieval Great Hall, fires flickering in the hearths, and the table gleaming with silver and cut glass. The chef is a master of his craft and uses local, in-season produce.

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children. Unlike many traditional counterparts, Corrour Lodge is light and spacious, with a formal dining room seating 32, a huge sitting room with vast windows looking out over the Loch, a library, office, various seating areas and a stellar games room in the basement with enough to keep any adult or child occupied for hours. The 60,000-acre Corrour estate spreads out beyond the enormous windows, a real wilderness filled with abundant wildlife. The estate operates a world-renowned deer management programme and offers excellent stalking. You can fish for wild brown trout on one of the six Lochs, or perhaps go trekking on one of the hardy Icelandic ponies. Intrepid hill walkers can challenge one of the five munroes (mountains over 3,000 feet) or go mountain biking along the rugged tracks. Corrour has its own station, the highest in the UK, and you can arrive by overnight sleeper direct from Euston, and be driven to the Lodge in time for breakfast. On the return leg, if you leave on a Sunday night you can be at your desk on Monday morning, still windswept from your Highland fling. n www.ltr.co.uk

Above and right: Corrour Lodge, interior and exterior

Try Sweet Caithness lamb, local beef, wild salmon caught in the bay, Orkney oysters, scallops from Strathy, Sinclair Bay crab and game when it’s the season, accompanied by selections from the extremely fine wine cellar. After dinner is the perfect time to admire the amazing night skies, with the occasional meteor shower and maybe a glimpse of the Northern Lights. A good way to round off the night is with a bonfire on the beach, accompanied by music and a wee dram of the local malt.

Corrour Lodge Without a doubt, this is one of Scotland’s more unusual ‘castles’. Designed by acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, the imposingly geometric Corrour Lodge is built of silvery granite, steel and glass in strong contrast to the wild and romantic countryside surrounding it. Although only two hours from Inverness, Corrour takes privacy to extremes and once you’ve driven the 11 miles along a rugged track from the main road to the Lodge, you’re unlikely to venture far from the estate, although there really is no need to. Here you can truly escape the pressures of everyday life and allow yourself to be superbly looked after by the resident housekeeper and her husband. The Lodge is a sanctuary of luxury and modernity in the heart of Scottish wilderness. The interiors have a strong Scandinavian influence with contemporary furnishings and pieces of art, mixed in with antiques – artwork that would be at home in the Guggenheim sits alongside deer antlers and ancient tapestries. The seven en suite double bedrooms all have views over Loch Ossian and there’s also a bunk room for up to 14

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Magical

Morocco Annabel Goldie-Morrison discovers that Morocco is easier to get to than ever, with bmi launching new flight routes from the UK to Casablanca and Marrakech. Just a couple of hours’ flight away, it’s a temptingly warm escape during the winter months

arrakech is a vibrant city that assaults the senses from all angles. The medina is the bustling heart of the city, the old town within the ancient walls. It’s noisy, colourful and filled with smells – both good and bad. While the out-of-town hotels in the Palmeraie are quieter and have amenities such as golf courses and pool complexes, you have to stay in the medina if you want to get a true impression of Marrakech. La Sultana is a five star hotel just inside the medina walls (and therefore easy to find), with the charm of a traditional riad but all the facilities and service of a luxury hotel. The hotel is made up of five separate riads, or courtyard houses, creating a wonderful mix of levels and spaces, and it provides an oasis of calm and comfort in the midst

of the city. The craftsmanship involved in creating La Sultana is, quite simply, something else – from the intricate stucco ornamentation to the hand-carved woodwork and polished plaster surfaces. There are only 28 rooms, and each is grand, individual and painted in rich colours with traditional furnishings and vast ornate bathrooms. The hotel rooftop is the ideal place to recline on a sun lounger with a cocktail and a good book but peer over the side and you’ll be dragged from the calm of La Sultana into the hustle and bustle of the markets underneath. In the distance, the snow-capped Atlas Mountains give a fantastic sense of immense space and it’s a wonderful contrast between this and the maniacal city below. The food at La Sultana is divine and we enjoyed several dinners in the courtyard. The dishes combine the best of

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Morocco and the Mediterranean, assembled in a refined and delicate manner. There are delicious homemade pastries for breakfast and afternoon tea, to be enjoyed on the rooftop or while relaxing by the pool. La Sultana has a subterranean spa area, reminiscent of Roman baths, with a steaming pool in the middle and treatment rooms leading off it. A hammam is a must when in Morocco, and at La Sultana they are fantastic – I won’t pretend that it’s a relaxing and calming experience, but it is cleansing for body and mind. It evokes childhood memories of strict mothers, astringent soap and bath time. After being slathered in black soap, scented with strong eucalyptus, the therapist dons a glove not entirely different in texture from sandpaper, and scrubs you from head to toe. It’s a bit off-putting to see the rolls of dead skin sloughing off, but once you are rinsed and back to the safety of a lounger your skin will feel as good as new – soft, radiant and completely renewed. Aside from the hammam, the spa offers aromatherapy, algotherapy and chromotherapy, as well as traditional Moroccan massage and beauty therapies. To find our way around Marrakech in the short time we had, we enlisted the help of Rosena Charmoy and her company Boutique Souk, an invaluable concierge service based in Marrakech. Rosena advised us on restaurants and tucked-away shops off the tourist trail. Venturing out of the safety of your hotel, there are plenty of dining options; La Mamounia, the grand dame favoured by Sir Winston Churchill, has several decadent restaurants and a stunning terrace bar overlooking the historic gardens. Boutique Souk arranged a private tour of the medina for us with Hafid, who escorted us through the souks and alleys and helped us find ‘real’ souvenirs; for example, tagines that don’t break in the oven – the ones that Moroccans actually buy. When the medina gets too much, Boutique Souk can arrange day trips out of the city. We took a trip into the foothills of the Atlas Mountains to the Nectarome gardens, where they produce organic essential oils and other plant-derived products. There’s a lot more to Morocco than Marrakech and it’s well worth visiting the coast, desert or mountains. We opted for the desert, and took a four-hour drive through the majestic Atlas Mountains and to the desert on the other side. Our destination was the Skoura Oasis and Dar Ahlam. This traditional Kasbah is a well-deserved member of Relais & Chateaux and the creation of a Parisian party planner. With a maximum of 30 guests, it’s a private affair and the focus is chiefly on personalisation and service. The Kasbah is surrounded by two hectares of beautiful gardens, with a heated pool taking centre stage. There’s a

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hammam, and indoor and outdoor spa treatment areas. There are nine suites within the ancient Kasbah and three villas, each with private gardens and plunge pools. All suites and villas have fireplaces for the colder winter nights, and for those looking to get away from the daily grind, rooms are free from phones or televisions. Each suite is individually decorated with silk curtains and unusual antiques, and bespoke candles and soaps are handmade for guests, in delicious flavours of amber, orange blossom and verbena. Meals at Dar Ahlam are events in their own right. The menu was created by chef Frederick Grasser-Hermé, and pastry guru Pierre Hermé. Each meal is served à deux or as a family in a different setting, perhaps on the terrace overlooking the mountains, under an olive tree in the garden, by the pool or in a hidden courtyard of the Kasbah. Evening meals are preceded by aperitifs in the garden or salon, or watching the spectacular sunset from the rooftop. The food is exemplary, using French culinary prowess to great effect with local Moroccan ingredients. The tarte au citron was the best we’d ever tasted. Each couple or group has their own dedicated guide, 4x4 and driver, so you can do what you want, when you want. Whether it’s leaving before dawn for a camel ride at sunrise, or simply venturing out into the oasis, everything can be organised to suit you. A trip to the Valley of the Roses is best in late April/early May, when the Damascus roses are in full bloom, the air filled with their heady scent. After a hike through the canyon, you can recline with a picnic amongst the rose bushes. In February and March, the Valley of the Almond Trees is in blossom. The Gorges of Dades are spectacular and if you follow the Nomad route, you can still see some of the nomadic people living in caves along the gorge. Within the Skoura Oasis surrounding Dar Ahlam, there are historic fourth century Kasbahs, gardens of olive and almond trees, craftsmen at work and local Berber markets. You can meander around on foot, in the car or by the traditional method; camel. Activities are all personalised and there are no restrictive itineraries or set times. Dar Ahlam truly evokes a sense of total relaxation; no pressure, no traffic, no deadlines... in short, the perfect place to recharge spent batteries. n www.lasultanamarrakech.com www.maisondesreves.com www.boutiquesouk.com

bmi operates direct flights to Marrakech three times a week from London Heathrow. www.flybmi.com

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Lakeside R est o rati o n Gabriel O’Rorke visits La Réserve Genève Hotel to discover the benefits of detoxing, Swiss Style

any of us think nothing of hopping across to Geneva to hit the slopes over the winter months – it becomes almost a second commute for some – but few think to make the trip in the months before and after the main winter season. I’m not suggesting summer skiing but rather, missing out the Alpine transfer altogether and staying on the banks of Lake Geneva. La Réserve Genève Hotel is just three miles from Geneva Airport, an unbelievably short transfer, given that (thank goodness) it is a world apart from the landing strip. In fact, La Réserve is a world apart from any hotel you might imagine being in Switzerland, or even Europe. In 2003, designer Jacques Garcia based his transformation of La Réserve on the hotel’s name. Taking inspiration from it (and adding a touch of humour), he created a hotel that parodies a game reserve. Flaming torches frame the entrance way and the dark red lobby is decorated with exotic bird lamps, large frames full of butterflies, and a giant elephant sculpture. The result is most easily compared to an African safari lodge – only perhaps a little bolder and more playful.

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The other part of the hotel is its spa, and it couldn’t provide more of a contrast. Although part of the same building, there are no leopard-print carpets, leather studded armchairs or African artworks when you climb down the stairs to the spa; instead it’s super-bright, white-on-white with pastelcoloured velvet cushions and soft curving archways. As my trip was a solo one, I signed up for four days of pampering and self-improvement on the La Réserve Better-Aging Spa Programme. Procedures kicked off with consultations with the three spa gurus: the doctor, nutritionist and (very good looking) osteopath. By carrying out various tests (from Body Mass Index to blood pressure and physical inspections), the trio identify any problems and find out why each person has chosen the programme – be it for weight loss, stress reduction, fitness or beauty reasons. Only then are the experts equipped to tailor-make a schedule that includes a mixture of sport, massages and healthy food. Daily personal training sessions last for an hour and you also have the option to go swimming (indoor or out), play tennis and take part in gym classes, ranging from yoga to abs-exercises. However, the majority of your time will be spent lying horizontal as you are scrubbed, massaged and wrapped into shape. Guests begin by having a full-body exfoliation and wrap. Next, part of the daily routine involves hydro-massages, which sound technical but simply involves lying in a Jacuzzi as jets and essential oils stimulate your circulation and drain your lymphatic system. This is followed by massages with a particular focus on detoxifying, slimming and draining. The 3-in-1 massage is particularly good, using a combination of hands and an air-sucking machine to kick metabolisms into action. I find an abdominal massage requires intense concentration to get through but afterwards I felt unbelievably light and floaty and, to make up for it, the collagen-boosting facial is unadulterated, glow-inducing bliss. Whatever your goal, detoxifying always comes first at La Réserve and this includes the food. Sitting in white robes at the spa’s Café Lauren, an American ‘better-ager’ expressed her disgust at the size of breakfast; “It was terrible! So small, I had to order another one,” she said. This breakfast begins with a shot of ominous-looking green juice (made from barley), which cleanses the kidney and intestine, followed by a smoothie, green tea and two bowls of fruit. It is, after all, a ‘dietary plan’ and, sadly, eggs and bacon don’t have quite the same nutritional value as the ominous green juice. “It’s not really true that breakfast should be the biggest meal,” said the nutritionist, crushing my usual excuse for pigging out in the morning. “It should be lunch because that’s when the sun is at its highest and the body is burning the most.” Wheat, dairy, sugar, alcohol, coffee and red meat are all off-limits, but with two courses for lunch, three for dinner (including apple crumble for pudding, no less) and as many smoothies as you like, this is hardly dire deprivation. The basic principle is what is known as a ‘disassociated diet’, which means carbs at lunch and protein at dinner. “If you want to keep the intestine clean,” the nutritionist advised, “you should avoid dairy products because they bring the most pollution to the body, as well as white bread and refined sugar.” Now, I know it’s not very ladylike, but whilst on the subject of the intestine, I must mention the loo. My Lake View Suite came equipped with one standard lavatory and one with a

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side panel of buttons. At first, I kept a healthy distance from the panelled one, but by day two I felt I ought to take a more continental attitude. My first dilemma was whether or not to flush first. Staying on the safe side, I flushed, then bit the bullet and pressed a button. Noises sounded as the bowl below sprung to life but it was a pleasant surprise when the warm water did its duty, and there was even a blow-dry to finish. Now, ‘better-agers’ are by no means restricted to the spa, or indeed the hotel, and being on Lake Geneva brings plenty of options, from windsurfing and sailing to city trips. La Réserve’s complimentary water transfer takes you to and from the city centre in a speedboat made of dark mahogany. Very James Bond. Many Genevans use the water transfer to glide across for dinner at the hotel’s two restaurants, Le Tsé Fung and Le Loti. The better-aging menu is not restricted to the spa and I would highly recommend having dinner surrounded by the chic clientele in Le Loti. It is easy to forget you’re on a detox as you lean back against a velvet chair savouring your steamed sole. “We don’t suggest radical lifestyle changes,” a doctor explained, “because people won’t stick to them when they leave but two or three things can be changed which will make a difference.” Maybe, just maybe, cutting out a few things isn’t so bad, especially when you feel this good. n For more information visit www.lareserve.ch or call +41 22 959 59 59.

Flights & Prices Swiss Air has several daily flights from London to Geneva (www.swiss.com). The Four Day Better Aging programme starts from £5,237 based on two sharing a Superior Room and one person participating in the programme, which includes medical and nutritional consultations, 13 spa treatments and 3 personal training sessions as well as full board dining at Café Lauren and access to all spa facilities.

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food & drink

news

the private bar Luxury brands Johnnie Walker and Porsche have united to create a collection featuring a series of designs that combine both aesthetics and functionality. The Private Bar, available to order exclusively from Harrods, is crafted from titanium and leather, possessing art motion sensors that open to reveal three JW bottles, four crystal glasses and chilled water. Other designs include The Chiller (£240) and The Cube (£490), both available at Harrods, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.

J Sheekey’s Speakeasy Known most famously for housing the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden is now the host of an exciting new entertainment venue until February 2012. On the first Sunday of each month, J Sheekey Oyster Bar will transform into a buzzing speakeasy, delighting patrons with live music and comedy as they enjoy their evening meal. Scottish comedian, writer and broadcaster Hardeep Singh Kohli, who curates the season, describes the atmosphere as “relaxed and playful” but still advises attendants to “expect the unexpected”. As well as auditory delights, visitors’ taste buds will be kept buzzing with seasonal dishes such as Strangford Loch oysters with spicy boar sausage, grilled tiger prawns and sautéed octopus with chorizo.

Food lingo:

The Black Madzik Hallowe’en Cocktail

Steak with blue cheese-infused butter and mushroom ketchup

Babicka Vodka has launched a limited edition cocktail for Hallowe’en. The spirit, a hypnotic concoction of wormwood extract and herbs, makes for a potent potion, inspired by a 16th century witches’ brew, once reputed to awaken the spirits of the Old World. This cocktail, mixed with vermouth and the secret ingredient of black squid ink, will certainly awaken your taste buds.

Famous for kooky but inspired recipes, Heston Blumenthal has created the perfect steak sauce. Blending blue cheese butter, which the head chef claims to capture “something of the spectacularly nutty, cheesy character of aged beef”, with mushroom ketchup adapted from an 18th century recipe enhances the meatiness of the dish.

Never one to be superstitious, head chef Pascal Aussignac has decided to celebrate the 13th birthday of his Michelin-star restaurant, Club Gascon, in style. To ensure the festivities are fitting, Aussignac is relaunching the menu that established the restaurant’s reputation. Dishes will include signature recipes such as cocotte of mixed vegetables, duck foie gras mi-cuit with piquillos and old-fashioned cassoulet Toulousain. Prices range from £3 to £8.

Quotation:

I will not eat oysters. I want my food dead. Not sick, not wounded: dead. Woody Allen actor/director

Website:

www.eattheseasons.co.uk

NEWS:

Happy 13th Birthday

Are you worried that you’re eating food out of season? Visit Eat the Season’s website to discover what you should and shouldn’t be eating year-round. It explains how consuming seasonal food can reduce energy, support local economy and, more importantly, make food taste fresher. It also shares tips and recipe ideas and suggests books to promote seasonal eating in the UK.

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restaurants

bars

American

Italian

Hawksmoor

157 Commercial Street, E1 020 7247 7392

Lena

66 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 020 7739 5714

5-6 Carey Lane, EC2V 020 7600 2720

British

Refettorio

Varnishers Yard Regents Quarter, N1 9FD 020 7841 7331

Canteen

19 New Bridge Street, EC4V 020 7438 8052

Beach Blanket Babylon

9 Norwich Street, EC4A 020 7831 1622 or 020 7831 1677

2 Crispin Place, E1 08456 861 122

Volupté

19-23 Bethnal Green Road, E1 020 7749 3540

Oriental

Bar Pepito

The Big Chill Bar

Dray Walk, E1 020 7392 9180 Bonds

14 New London Street, EC3R 020 7264 1910

Royal China Club

40-42 Baker Street, W1U 020 7486 3898

5 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 020 7657 8088

GREENS

14 Cornhill, EC3V 020 7220 6300

Saki

4 West Smithfield, EC1A 020 7489 7033

59 West Smithfield, EC1A 020 7796 0600

French

Mexican

Gilt London

Cellar Gascon

Cicada

Green & Red

5 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 020 7657 8088

51 Bethnal Green Road, E1 020 7749 9670

132-136 St John Street, EC1V 020 7608 1550

Coq D’Argent

Middle Eastern

Andaz Hotel, Liverpool Street, EC2M 020 7618 7215

Bonds

No.1 Poultry, EC2R 020 7395 5000 Les Trois Garcons

1 Club Row, E1 020 7613 1924 Sauterelle

Royal Exchange, EC3V 020 7618 2483

Gastropub Duke of Cambridge

30 St Peter’s Street, N1 020 7359 3066 The Peasant

240 St. John Street, EC1V 020 7336 7726

Greek Mezedopolio

14 Hoxton Market, N1 020 7739 8212

Kenza

10 Devonshire Square, EC2M 020 7929 5533

Modern European

CATCH & Champagne Bar

The Gherkin Bar & Restaurant

Levels 39 & 40, 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 020 7071 5009 Grand Café & Bar

Magdalen Restaurant

The Courtyard, Royal Exchange, EC3V 020 7618 2480

One Lombard Street

5 Abchurch Yard, EC4N 020 7623 2355

Rhodes Twenty Four

233 Shoreditch High Street, E1 020 7247 8989

152 Tooley Street, SE1 020 7403 1342

1 Lombard Street, EC3V 020 7929 6611 Tower 42 Old Broad Street, EC2N 020 7877 7703

Smiths of Smithfield

67-77 Charterhouse Street, EC1M 020 7251 7950

Spanish Camino

3 Varnishers Yard, N1 020 7841 7331 Moro

34-36 Exmouth Street, EC1R 020 7833 8336

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Balls Brothers

Harry’s Bar

Light Bar

Match EC1

45-47 Clerkenwell Road, EC1M 020 7250 4002 Ortega

27 Leadenhall Market, EC3V 020 7623 1818 Vertigo 42

Tower 42, 25 Old Broad St, EC2N 020 7877 7842 The Worship

Triton Court, 14 Finsbury Square, EC2A 020 7330 0920

food & drink

connoisseur

Drifting Away Pandora Jones tries out the drift, one of the City’s newer, funkier offerings, to discover it’s so chilled that its name doesn’t even need capital letters

irst things first – I defy you not to have taken childish delight in receiving the invitation to the drift’s opening event. Onto my desk arrived a tiny, rolled parchment in a tiny, corked glass bottle and what a message in a bottle it was. It proclaimed an S.O.S. with a twist; it was a call to save not the souls but the social lives of City Castaways. This, I felt, would be my type of establishment and my disappointment about missing the launch was happily alleviated by just one evening at the drift. Imagine a cross between a lofty, splitlevel warehouse and a giant greenhouse devoid of plants. Consider also the fact that it is an exceptionally hot day and that dozens, possibly hundreds, of suited City workers, released from their corporate jungle, are flooding in, set upon quenching thirst and satisfying appetites. Understandably, it is really rather warm. This does not, however, diminish my experience. Rather it lends itself well to the laidback, ‘on holiday’ vibe, as proclaimed by the words “An island of calm in the heart of the city”, scrawled casually across a desert-island-toned wall. Add to this a dramatic staircase, hidden alcoves and quirky, opulent decor; think gold wallpaper, candelabras, monochrome mosaic tiles and floating Chinese-style lanterns. Oversized shelves hold an

eclectic assortment of vintage teapots, vases and china jugs while the pontoon lounge bar features comfy chairs, banquette seating and a dedicated mixology table for budding baristas. That’s not even mentioning Europe’s largest private aquarium. The first floor main dining room overlooks the walnut bar below and this is where we’re seated. Because of the split level, the drift feels airy even when crammed with the post-work crowd and I like being able to people-watch the thirsty bankers relieving a treasure chest, masquerading as an ice bucket, of its contents (beer, if you’re interested). Despite the atmosphere, it’s hard to forget you’re a hop, skip and a jump away from Liverpool Street when the chips come in flowerpots covered with old FTs. It’s worth noting though that some neighbouring tables are a little too close for comfort (unless you like your neighbours – ours, a pair of men and two women, were getting on very well). But, most importantly, what of the food? In a word, it’s excellent. Hunger was immediately sated by a bread board, Puglia marinated olives and delicious starters. My guest chose Dolcelatte and Parma Ham Bruschetta (luckily I discovered before ordering that Dolcelatte is a sister of gorgonzola not cheddar) and I loved the Buffalo Mozzarella with red onion and spinach. As for wine to accompany the food, we couldn’t decide, so the

sommelier offered helpfully, “Let’s try three different ones.” So these arrived for sampling and we settled on the fruity, light Sauvignon Blanc Pencarrow Estate, 2010 New Zealand (£23.55). Our main course choices, considering the warm weather, were as different as could be. I opted for the summerysounding Grilled Lemon and Thyme Chicken with a tossed pepper leaf salad and sourdough croutons. It was beautifully presented and delicious. My guest asked for the sirloin but was told politely: “Sorry madam, we’re out of the sirloin. Would you like the Côte de Bœuf instead?” The answer was a resounding “Yes please”. With mushrooms, root vegetables and buttered mash, this was surely a dish more suited to cold winter nights next to a log fire in a gastro pub? Apparently not – the beef was cooked tenderly and the mash was the perfect butter-to-mash consistency. For pudding, we shared chocolate brownie and cheesecake. At first glance, as a chocolate lover, I deemed the portion too small; six mouthfuls later, I retracted this comment. Just filling enough. the drift does what it says on the tin. It is indeed an island of calm in the heart of the city. However, I feel it would be fair to add the adjective ‘buzzing’ as sometimes you want a little liveliness injected into the calm. n Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate www.thedriftbar.co.uk

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out about

Affordable Art Fair: Battersea To discover everything new and exciting from the world of art this autumn, head to Battersea Park’s Affordable Art Fair. Whether you wish to expand your household name collections or just fancy a look at the new talent from the Recent Graduates’ Exhibition, the event has something for everyone. The informal and relaxed atmosphere makes this an ideal children’s outing, with free art-based activities offered through the fair’s Education Programme. The event, which takes place between 20 and 23 October, will exhibit paintings, sculpture, photography and original prints priced between £40 and £4,000. Head there early to bag yourself a bargain. Affordable Art Fair Battersea 20-23 October 2011 www.affordableartfair.com/battersea

Battersea’s little sister Following the lead of Battersea Park, Hampstead Heath has chosen to indulge North London art enthusiasts with their own Affordable Art Fair. Taking place a week later, between 27 and 30 October, residents will be treated to an impressive line up of contemporary UK galleries. Similarly to Battersea’s Fair, artwork will range from affordable to high end in order to excite the broadest spectrum of visitors. The Education Programme, popular amongst Battersea residents, will be incorporated, comprising free workshops and activities, as well as a café, free crèche and champagne bar. AAF Hampstead Heath 27-30 October 2011 www.affordableartfair.com/hampstead/home

Battersea Park Collars and Coats Battersea Dogs and Cats Home is celebrating its 151st Anniversary by putting together a fantastic event on 11 November at Battersea Evolution. Last year, Catherine Tate, Amanda Holden, Alexandra Burke, HRH Prince Michael of Kent, Roger Daltrey CBE, Brian May and Craig RevelHorwood were among the high profile guests on the red carpet. This year, the event hopes to boast the same amount of prestigious support with a host of A-list celebrities, British royalty and corporate figures in attendance. Battersea Park Collars and Coats 11 November 2011 www.collarsandcoats.org.uk/ the-evening

out & about

connoisseur

Luxury Wedding Show London occasion wear designer Claire Thorogood. If that doesn’t whet your appetite then perhaps the thought of viewing the latest bridal collections from Monique Lhuillier, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang, Alice Temperley and Vivienne Westwood will. The Luxury Wedding Show London 22-23 October 2011 www.theluxuryweddingshowlondon.co.uk

The State of Grace

The Luxury Wedding Show London opens at the Saatchi Gallery on 22 October for a shopping weekend. Among the bridal experts in attendance will be the most influential figures in the industry, including wedding planner Mark Niemierko and hairstylist Errol Douglas. Other exhibitors include private concierge company Quintessentially, bridal photographer Julia Boggio, floral designers McQueens and Phillippa Craddock and

Tower Target Practise Tower Paintball, located two minutes walk from London Bridge Station, offers an actionpacked, fun-filled day for those wanting to experience the excitement of team paintballing and the chance to race around, enthusiastically picking targets on the other team. Paintball Games have been provided to cater for a whole range of customers and occasions, including corporate outings and birthday parties. The venue has three varied game zones and spans an impressive 50,000 square feet of space. Tower Paintball Open seven days a week: 10am-1.30pm, 2pm5.30pm and 6.30pm-10pm www.towerpaintball.com

Galleria Illy This October, Galleria Illy plays host to an exciting programme of art, literature, science, design and food and wine events presented by internationally renowned figures. Participants include Marina Abramovic, Hans Ulrich Obrist and Carlito Carvalhosa. Pistoletto and Cittadellarte contribute a range of works and projects linking London to the Mediterranean and Africa. Galleria Illy 12 September-16 October 2011 www.illy.com

Bourbon House Dunhill’s Bourdon House is the perfect location for the man who requires the ultimate in luxury lifestyle. Suitably housed in the former residence of the Duke of Westminster, the beautiful three storey building provides the very finest in menswear, including accessories, gifts and gadgets. The Discovery Room is dedicated to Dunhill’s belief in “personalisation, luxury and exclusivity” and showcases a range of limited edition products. Men are pampered in the adjoining spa which holds two treatment rooms and a gentleman’s barbers. In addition, the basement has a private screening room with a state of the art sound system. Where better to indulge yourself as the winter weather draws in? Bourbon House, Alfred Dunhill London www.dunhill.com

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elcome to the October issue of London Homes & Property where estate agents are experiencing booming sales and lettings markets, more of us than ever are turning to our smart phones to aid our property search and a new service has been founded to pair landlords with would-be tenants in shared accommodation (p. 154). The opening of Westfield Stratford City (p. 128) has been greeted with much excitement and is offering tangible benefits to those living and investing in the area, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also detailing gorgeous family homes in Chigwell, for those looking further afield (p. 156). If international property is of interest, we also encourage you to attend the luxury property show which draws together the very finest homes worldwide (p. 128). Happy Hunting!

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Modern Homes, p.156

contents 154

128 living local

128 Area News 148 Hot Property 151 State of the Market

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154 Property Latest 156 Development Focus 162 Mortgage Update

living local

areanews By Richard Brown

The next chapter in retail The opening of Westfield Stratford City last month marked not only the launch of Europe’s largest urban shopping area, but also the start of a host of new developments set to redefine life in the East End. An estimated 160,000 people flooded through the centre’s doors on its opening day, with pop star Nicole Scherzinger on hand to provide entertainment for the animated visitors. Located next to the Olympic Park, the £1.8bn, 1.9m sq ft project houses more than 300 stores, 70 restaurants, a 14-screen cinema, three hotels, a bowling alley and a casino. Described as a city within a city, and serving a catchment area of over four million people, the centre is arguably the best connected shopping centre in the UK with 58 trains per hour linking Stratford to other areas of the country. The centre can be reached in just eight minutes from the City, 11 minutes from the Docklands and 20 minutes from the West End. For those driving to the megacomplex, there is also a 5000 space car park. Speaking at the opening, Mr. Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media

Transport latest… Summer may already seem like a distant memory, but if you fancy topping up that fading tan help is at hand. Weekend breaks to the sun are now available from London City Airport all year round. BA CityFlyer are offering flights to Portugal and Spain from as little as £78 one way, having recently introduced a full flying programme that sees three flights a week departing London City Airport for Faro and four flights to Malaga. To check availability and book flights, visit www.ba.com

and Sport, announced: “This is a hugely significant day for East London... It [the centre] will be a fabulous showcase for some of the best British retail businesses and brands, especially during the Games.” In addition to breaking retail records, Westfield Stratford City is also setting new benchmarks in sustainability, operating its own on-site combined cooling and heating power plant that will generate 75 per cent of the centre’s energy. www.uk.westfield.com/stratfordcity

To Buy or Not to Buy Property expert Melissa Porter has confirmed she will host London’s largest two-day luxury property event at the start of next month. Showcasing only the finest properties from around the globe, The Luxury Property Show will offer guests a unique opportunity to view and buy some of the world’s most exclusive homes. The Luxury Property Show will be hosted at The Hurlingham Club on 1 and 2 November 2011. www.eton-events.com/LuxuryPropertyShow

Did you know? That there are more than 900 bookshops in London. That’s more than double the amount in New York.

Location, Location, Location Situated on the edge of Spitalfields, Sky Lounge is no ordinary City bar. With floor to ceiling windows and breathtaking views, the 32nd floor bar offers vistas across the Capital, with 270 degree views that range from Tower Bridge and Crystal Palace over the City, past the Gherkin, to Shoreditch and beyond. The champagne and cocktail bar offers food to nibble and share, whilst cool vibes are provided by the resident DJ. Sky Lounge opens to the public Tuesday to Friday, 5pm to midnight. Reservations must be made 24 hours before. Sky Lounge is located on the 32nd floor of Nido on Frying Pan Alley, E1 7HS

129

Knight Frank

Pierhead Lock, London E14

Landmark East Tower, London E14

One bedroom apartment in this well maintained development. Extending to 573 sq ft, the property is presented in excellent order and benefits from a spacious reception room. The bedroom is of a good size with built in storage cupboards. Parking.

We are pleased to offer this one double bedroom apartment found within the Landmark Tower. With a brand new style open plan kitchen this apartment offers wonderful dining options. The apartment is furnished to a high standard. Viewings are highly recommended.

£300 per week

£395 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Park Central Building, Bow, London E3

Hallmark Court, London E14

Well presented unfurnished two bedroom apartment located in the prestigious Bow Quarter development. Accommodation comprises semi-open plan kitchen leading to a reception with balcony. The development benefits from parking, porter, convenience store, bar and restaurant and access to the leisure centre with pool.

We are delighted to offer this furnished apartment. This smart duplex apartment comes complete with open plan reception and modern kitchen. Off the reception is a large terrace offering uninterrupted, far reaching south facing views. The development also offers concierge, communal roof terrace and parking.

£330 per week

£365 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank

Landmark East Tower, London E14

Pan Paninsula, London E14

We are pleased to offer this two bedroom furnished apartment found within the Landmark Tower. The block is conveniently located within walking distance of Canary Wharf and Canary Wharf Jubilee Line tube station is close by. This development also includes a concierge and a gym.

Brand new two bedroom apartment available for let on the 28th floor of London’s tallest and most spectacular residential building. Offered on a fully furnished or unfurnished basis, the accommodation comprises of reception/dining area, two bedrooms and two bathroom.

£595 per week

£675 per week

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

No. 1 West India Quay, London E14

New Atlas Wharf, London E14

We are pleased to offer this luxury two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment found within the award winning development of West India Quay. With a brand new style open plan kitchen this apartment offers wonderful dining options. The apartment is offered furnished, with parking and 24 hour porter. Viewings are highly recommended as the apartment is available immediately. £950 per week

A very spacious apartment situated in a porter purpose built development. With a fantastic, large private terrace, directly fronting the River Thames, the property has an excellent reception space. There is also a well appointed kitchen and three good double bedrooms.

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

£750 per week

Knight Frank

West India Quay, London E14

Dundee Wharf, London E14

A superb two bedroom duplex apartment arranged over the 31st, 32nd and 33rd floor of this Manhattan style development. With exceptional panoramic views over the Canary Wharf estate, the apartment is presented in good order. Leasehold

A well presented three bedroom penthouse in Dundee Wharf. The apartment offers a wealth of internal space, a large roof terrace and a sun room from which some of the best river and City views available can be seen.

£2,250,000

£1,450,000

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Vanguard Building, London E14 Situated in one of Canary Wharf’s most popular developments, Millennium Harbour, is this two double bedroom apartment. The apartment has a private balcony offering beautiful river views.

Leasehold

Newell Street, London E14

Leasehold

Situated in the St Anne’s Limehouse conservation area, a charming 3/4 bedroom Grade II listed house with 74’ garden backing onto the churchyard. The house retains many original period features and has been carefully renovated. Freehold

£530,000

£795,000

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank

Dunbar Wharf, London E14

Maurer Court, London SE10

A magnificent two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment that has been refurbished to the highest standard. The apartment offers a wealth of internal space as well as two charming terraces.

This wonderful duplex penthouse offers a wealth of internal space as well as fantastic views to the river, Canary Wharf and communal gardens. The property offers extremely bright rooms as it has floor to ceiling windows.

Share of Freehold

Leasehold

£1,115,000

£675,000

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Dundee Wharf, London E14 Light and well proportioned two bedroom apartment on the first floor of this popular portered development block in Limehouse. The property is presented in good internal order and has a balcony with stunning views of the river.

Berkeley Tower, London E14

Share of Freehold

A generously proportioned three bedroom, three bathroom apartment. Located on the 14th floor of Berkeley Tower, the apartment offers wonderful far reaching river views from the reception, dining area and master bedroom. Leasehold

£540,000

£1,450,000

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank

Aldwych Apartments, Covent Garden, WC2 Outstanding quality and design

Spectacular penthouse apartments to rent in this prime West End location on the edge of Covent Garden and Holborn. These brand new units range from 800 sq ft to 2600 sq ft and offer excellent living spaces, stylish bathrooms, fully fitted kitchens with Miele appliances, private balconies, comfort cooling and under floor heating. Parking is also available under separate negotiation. Prices from ÂŁ775 to ÂŁ2500 per week

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

Knight Frank

The Bear Pitt, New Globe Walk, SE1

Sugar House, Leman Street E1

Modern and bright apartment located in this newly completed development on the South Bank close to the Tate Modern and short walk to London Bridge and The City. This stylish apartment has two double bedrooms, two contemporary bathrooms, wooden floors, high ceilings and is available furnished.

Stylish and spacious one bedroom apartment in the popular 24 hour portered development. This large one bedroom flat has been finished to a high standard offering a large reception room with high ceilings, fully fitted open plan kitchen, beautiful bathroom suite, double bedroom and hard wooden floors

£695 per week

£425 per week

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

Baltic Court, Wapping, E1W

Towerbridge Wharf, Wapping, E1W

Smart one bedroom apartment in this converted warehouse on Wapping High Street moments from Wapping station and the 100 and D3 bus routes in to The City and Canary Wharf. This lovely apartment has been finished to a high standard boasting wood and stone flooring and exposed brick work.

Furnished 2nd floor apartment to rent in this purpose built development in west Wapping, moments from St Katharine Dock’s and Tower Hill. This bright south facing apartment has two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, fitted kitchen, nice size reception room, underground parking, 24 hour concierge and lovely views of the river and Tower Bridge.

£380 per week

£650 per week

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

Knight Frank

Capital Wharf Wapping E1W

Prusoms Island, Wapping E1W

On the 2nd floor of a popular block, a charming flat with all the principal rooms facing onto the river. Entrance hall, reception room, kitchen, en suite bathroom with shower and bath, guest cloaks/shower room, 24 hour porterage. 166 sq m (1794 sq ft) Leasehold 984 years

A striking light and bright penthouse with 2 reception rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 en suite, utility room and plenty of storage. In need of some refurbishment, porterage and private parking. 185 sq m (2000 sq ft)

£850,000

£925,000

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Dunbar Wharf , Limehouse E14

Share of Freehold

Neo Bankside Bankside SE1

A magnificent 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment that has been refurbished to the highest standard. The apartment offers a wealth of internal space as well as two charming terraces, leisure facilities, private parking and porterage. 144 sq m (1550 sq ft) Share of Freehold

This stunning 3rd floor apartment has a modern wellequipped kitchen and a spacious living room with floor to ceiling windows leading into a winter garden. Views of The Tate Modern, the Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral. 118 sq m (1276 sq ft) Leasehold 994 years

£1,115,000

£1,525,000

KnightFrank.co.uk 020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank

Chelsea Bridge Wharf, SW8

2 bedroom flat with direct views of the Thames in London A bright two bedroom apartment with direct river views in Chelsea Bridge Wharf. This second floor apartment is finished to a high standard throughout and offered for sale with no onward chain. Approximately 91 sq m (980 sq ft) Leasehold Guide price: ÂŁ945,000

(RVR110175)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Riverside riverside@knightfrank.com 020 7590 2450

Knight Frank

Parliament View, SE1

Three bedroom apartment in Parliament View with views of the Thames A delightful and upgraded 3 bedroom apartment in the popular and centrally located Parliament View. With views of the Thames, Lambeth Palace and Parliament, this apartment has secure parking, gym and concierge. Good transport links. Approximately 106 sq m (1151 sq ft) Leasehold Guide Price: ÂŁ1, 100, 000

(RVR090083)

KnightFrank.co.uk/Riverside riverside@knightfrank.com 020 7590 2450

savills.co.uk

Belgrave Court, E14

New Providence Wharf, E14

Reception room  kitchen  bedroom with en suite bathroom  cloakroom  balcony  concierge  parking space

Reception room  kitchen  2 double bedrooms (1 en suite)  family bathroom  balcony  gym and leisure facilities  concierge  parking space

Guide £540,000 Leasehold Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

Guide £515,000 Leasehold 020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

Pan Peninsula East, E14

Belgrave Court, E14

Reception room / kitchen  bedroom  bathroom  balcony  concierge  gym and swimming pool

Reception room  kitchen  dining area  3 bedrooms  3 en suite bathrooms  cloakroom concierge  parking space

Guide £285,000 Leasehold Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

Guide £1.5 million Leasehold 020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf

canarywharf@savills.com

020 7531 2500

savills.co.uk

Dundee Court, E1w

New Crane Place, E1W

Reception room  kitchen  2 bedrooms (1 en suite)  bathroom  juliette balcony  porter  parking space

Reception room  kitchen  2 bedrooms  2 bathrooms (1 en-suite)  juliette balcony  porter  parking space

Guide Price £650,000 Leasehold

Guide Price £625,000 Share of Freehold

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

Benbow House, SE1

Bermondsey Street, SE1

3 reception rooms  kitchen  4 bedrooms  3 bathrooms  study  2 terraces  2 balconies, porter  2 parking spaces

2 reception rooms  kitchen/dining room  4 bedrooms  3 bathrooms  guest cloakroom  playroom/garage  roof terrace

Guide Price £2,995,995 Freehold

Guide Price £10 million Leasehold Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands

docklands@savills.com

020 7456 6800

LEFT-HAND

Hamptons City Office Sales. 020 7236 8398 city@hamptons-int.com

Aldgate Lofts, E1 Leasehold - £385,000

Ensign Street, E1 Leasehold - £430,000

A brand new 1 bedroom warehouse conversion.

A 2 bedroom period apartment near Tower Hill .

Hatton Garden, EC1 Leasehold - £765,000

The Penthouse, E1 Leasehold - £795,000

A stunningly refurbished 2 bedroom apartment .

A stunning brand new duplex penthouse apartment.

Lexington Apartments, EC1 Leasehold - £950,000

New Road, E1 Freehold - £1,500,000

A spectacular City penthouse with parking.

A stunningly restored Georgian house.

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

RIGHT-HAND

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Sales. 020 7407 3173 towerbridge@hamptons-int.com

Tea Trade Wharf, SE1 Leasehold £865,000

Vogans Mill Wharf, SE1 Leasehold £645,000

A 1442 sq ft, third floor apartment within a popular warehouse conversion in Shad Thames, with two en-suite bedrooms, car parking and concierge.

A two bedroom dockside apartment in this popular Mill Street development, with full length balcony over St Saviours Dock, parking and 24 hour porterage.

Stable House, SE16 Share of Freehold £375,000

Winchester Wharf, SE1 Leasehold £925,000

A beautifully presented top floor 2 bed apartment with high ceilings and southerly park views and allocated gated parking.

A 1216 sq ft, riverfront warehouse development opportunity on Clink Street in the heart of Borough Market, close to London Bridge station and the City.

Admirals Court, SE1 Leasehold £595,000

Butlers Wharf Building, SE1 Share of Freehold £1,950,000

An 850 sq ft, two bedroom, two bathroom duplex apartment in the heart of Shad Thames with balcony overlooking the piazza. Porter and parking.

A stunning two bedroom, two bathroom, 1615 sq ft, duplex penthouse apartment with a large 43 ft East facing terrace with partial river views.

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

LEFT-HAND

Hamptons City Office Lettings. 020 7236 8399 citylettings@hamptons-int.com

Old Street EC1 £725 per week

St Katherine Docks E1

Fantastic two bedroom, two bathroom apartment offering spacious and stylish City living! Available furnished.

A well presented two bedroom apartment in this popular dockside development. Available furnished, unfurnished and part furnished.

Cornhill EC3 £430 per week

Bishops Square E1 £460 per week

A well presented one bedroom apartment in the heart of the City. With Bank and Monument stations within a 5 minute walk. Available furnished.

Stunning one bedroom apartment located on the top floor of this development in the heart of Spitalfields. Available furnished.

Farringdon Road EC1 £750 per week

Folgate Street E1 £485 per week

A fantastic flat offering three bedrooms, each with the use of their own bathroom or shower room. Available furnished.

A two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in the popular Folgate Street development, benefiting from 24 hour concierge. Available furnished.

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

£750 per week

RIGHT-HAND

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Lettings. 020 7407 3173 towerbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

Prospect House, SE1 £425 per week

The Triangle, SE1 £475 per week

Fabulous well presented one double bedroom apartment with a fantastic 30” roof terrace. Featuring an open plan kitchen to living room and wood flooring.

A well presented apartment with balcony, reception room with wood floors and two interconnecting bedrooms.

Terracotta Court, SE1 £475 per week

St Saviours House, SE16 £580 per week

A beautifully presented two bedroom two bathroom apartment situated within easy reach to London Bridge.

A spacious two double bedroom apartment with large roof terrace set within a popular development.

Cayenne Court, SE1 £695 per week

Park Street, SE1 £1450 per week

A spacious two double bedroom apartment with large roof terrace set within a popular development which benefits use of communal gym, pool and sauna

Stylish three bedroom conversion apartment situated within close proximity to Shad Thames

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

020 3324 0188 www.andersonrose.co.uk

TrafalgarStreet, Tanner Ct, Wapping Ber, SE1Wall, £425,000 E1 £699,950 Leasehold Share of F/H An immaculately This refurbished riverside presented apartment 2 bedroom faces flatCanary situatedWharf within has twoabalconies, modern development secure car parking just offand Tower a porter. Bridge

The Circle, Tanner Street, Queen Ber, Elizabeth SE1 £425,000 St, SE1 Leasehold £649,950 L/H An immaculately This apartment is presented located in 2the bedroom Circle development flat situated within a modern providing 24hr porterage development and secure just offcar Tower parking. Bridge

River View Tanner Street, Heights, Ber, SE1 SE16£425,000 £725,000 Leasehold Leasehold An immaculately This riverside apartment presented has2superb bedroom views flatofsituated Tower Bridge within and Canary a modern Wharf, development with securejust parking off Tower and aBridge concierge.

St. JohnsStreet, Tanner Wharf, Ber, E1W SE1£1,200,000 £425,000 Leasehold Share of Freehold An immaculately Beautifully presented presented 3 bedroom 2 bedroom flat with flatstunning situated river within view located a modern within development the listed St. justJohns off Tower WharfBridge building.

Curb Appeal! Our investment in cutting edge technology brings new life to the estate agent’s window. The moving image is more eye-catching than a static one so we have live news or world cup rugby playing whilst our portfolio of marketing property rotates around it.

Seeking Perfection

020 3324 0188 www.andersonrose.co.uk

Springalls Wharf Apartments, SE16 ÂŁ1,100,000 Leasehold An immaculately presented 1,238 sq ft ground floor apartment complete with stunning river view, 2 double bedrooms, a private decked terrace area and 2 parking spaces. The property also benefits from access to the facilities at Providence Square.

Leeside Court, Rotherhithe St, SE16 ÂŁ425,000 Leasehold with Share of Freehold This third floor apartment was extensively refurbished three years ago and provides spectacular river views, good storage, a balcony and a car parking space under the building.

Seeking Perfection

living local

HOT PROPERTY: Panoramic Views

It is rare for an apartment of this quality to become available for rent. The owners are both architects and chose the apartment for its style, design integrity and wonderful view of Tower Bridge, the river and the City of London. Having managed this apartment for several years with great success we are now able to offer it again to new tenants.

With over 1,400 sq ft of modern living space and The Design Museum, Butlers Wharf and all the facilities of Shad Thames on your doorstep, we expect it to be very popular. Charles Dickens set parts of his novel Oliver Twist in this area east of Shad Thames which was then called Jacob’s Island. Dickens described the area as “the strangest, the most extraordinary of the

BERMONDSEY WALL WEST, SE1 many localities that are hidden in London”. The 1968 film Oliver! (based on Oliver Twist) was also partly shot in the local warehouse and the area was used due to its quaint buildings, cobbled streets, riverside views and proximity to landmarks such as Tower Bridge. The area is now one of the smartest, most interesting and vibrant in London!

£745 per week Lawrence Ward & Co www.lawrenceward.co.uk

020 7264 1234 149

London's Finest Properties

LETTINGS

Boston Building, Deals Gateway, SE13

SALES

Westgate Apartments, Excel, E16

• 1st Floor • Fully Furnished • Balcony • Onsite pool & gym • Close to Deptford Bridge DLR station

• Two Bedroom Apartment • 12th Floor • Fully Furnished • Fully Equipped Gymnasium • Concierge Service • Royal Victoria DLR

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E14 • Stunning 10th floor two bed apartment • Uninterrupted river views from front and rear • Excellent condition throughout • Secure underground parking • 24hr concierge and exceptional leisure facilities

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E14 • One bedroom apartment • Highly prestigious riverside development • Exceptional leisure facilities • 24hr concierge • Moments from Canary Wharf

£230.00 per week

£325.00 per week

£524,950

£265,000

City Peninsula, North Greenwich, SE10

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

Sugar House, Leman Street, E1

Westgate Apartments, Royal Docks, E16

• Two Bedroom Apartment • 4th Floor • Fully Furnished • Balcony • Parking Available • Nr. North Greenwich St.

• Studio Apartment • 11th Floor • Fully Furnished • Onsite Gymnasium • 24 Hour Concierge Service • Walking Distance to Canary Wharf

• Immaculate 1st floor show apartment • Two bedroom/two bathroom • Interior designed • Exceptional specification • Secure underground parking

• 5th floor two bedroom/two bathroom • Immaculate condition • Concierge • Good transport links • Close proximity to Canary Wharf and the City

£340.00 per week

£375.00 per week

£1,080,000

£314,950

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Christopher Court, City Quarter, E1

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E1

• One Bedroom Apartment • 14th Floor • Fully Furnished • Onsite Gymnasium • 24 Hour Concierge Service • Nr. South Quay DLR

£375.00 per week

• Two Bedroom Apartment • 6th Floor • Fully Furnished • Balcony • Onsite Leisure Facilities • Allocated Parking

£525.00 per week

•Two bedroom/two bathroom Corner unit • Private patio • Highly desirable development • Exceptional level of specification • Moments from DLR/Tube and City

£529,950

• 4th floor Two bed/One bath • Stunning riverside development • Balcony • Valet parking • Moments from DLR and Jubilee line

£399,999

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

Central London 020 7582 7989

West London 020 8896 9990

Finchley 020 8446 9524

Docklands 020 7476 0125

Deptford & Greenwich 020 8692 2244

living local

State of the market Carl Davenport Associate Director AT Chesterton Humberts, IN Tower Bridge, COMMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MARKET

INTERNATIONAL INTEREST

ver the past two years we have witnessed an extraordinary appetite in the Far East and particularly mainland China, for London property. Most agents are in agreement that Chinese purchasers now account for around ten per cent of property sales in central London, but the

figure is much higher in areas close to the City such as Tower Bridge. The burgeoning Chinese economy, the strength of the yuan against the pound and a growing appetite for investing abroad (the Chinese government restricts the number of properties an individual can purchase) mean that this figure is almost certain to increase over the coming months and years. In order to ensure a good experience for both vendors and purchasers, we have employed negotiators such as Shih Yu Phang, who are fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, and have been increasing our profile in the Far East. We have in fact just returned from a highly successful trip to Shanghai during which we showcased some of our client’s properties. Asian buyers almost invariably look for new or nearly new properties which are particularly prevalent in areas like Tower Bridge and Waterloo, and among the new Thames-side developments. Those buying properties as rental investments will generally be looking at the £300,000 - £500,000 level but a significant number of Chinese buyers are acquiring properties for their children that are studying here. Buyers of this type will spend anything up to £1m on an apartment in central locations and will often retain the property as an investment when the child either returns to China or starts work in a different location. Developments that have proved especially popular include the White House at Waterloo and Metro Central Heights. But it is not just the sales market that is benefitting; with some of the world’s best schools and universities, the capital’s rental market has been given a massive boost by the large numbers of international students flocking to London. Many of these wealthy students are prepared to pay a premium for the right sort of property and may even pay the entire year’s rent up front, making them great tenants for many landlords. n Chesterton Humberts, Tower Bridge 020 3040 8590, www.chestertonhumberts.com

151

Rendall and Rittner Lettings Ltd.

To all landlord and sellers! Rendall and Rittner Letting limited would like to take the

opportunity to invite you to contact one of our dedicated experienced members of staff to discuss your property requirements.

Lettings

City View House, Bethnal Green

£360.00 Per week

New Caledonian Wharf SE16

£285.00 Per week

A two bedroom apartment is available in this former factory building situated along Bethnal green Road, which is an ideal location for Bethnal Green underground (central line) station, shops and bars. GCH. Weekday concierge. Excellent Location.

One double bedroom apartment is available in this prestigious development known as New Caledonian Wharf. The property comprises: Entrance hallway leading to reception, which overlooks the courtyard. One double bedroom and bathroom. Kitchen with a range of wall and base units. Parking. Onsite leisure facilities. 24 Hour concierge.

Admiral Place, Rotherhithe SE16

City View House, Bethnal Green

£300 Per week

Two double bedroom maisonette, built alongside Rotherhithe Street, which is (in our opinion) a convenient location for local pubs, Thames clipper service and the newly opened Rotherhithe overground station. The property also benefits from a garage with parking area in front. Property requires some updating.Good Location.

£275.00 Per week

Rare opportunity to rent this one double bedroom apartment situated on the sixth floor of this former factory building situated in the heart of Bethnal Green, being ideal for the underground and local bus services to The City and beyond. Weekday concierge.

Unit 3, Vogan’s Mill, 17 Mill Street, London, SE1 2BZ Tel: 020 7702 0042 Fax: 020 7394 1937 Email: lettings@rendallandrittner.co.uk www.randrlettings.co.uk

newHOMES

Your essential guide to new local developments. Read up to the minute information about star apartments, good investments, yet to be launched to the market properties, and the best in innovative design, architectural excellence and chic, city style. This dedicated section covers luxury projects throughout Blackheath, Camberwell, Dulwich and other select areas of South East London.

Something Special RURAL RETREATS IN ESSEX

Latest Developments THE CITY IN BLOOM

newhomes

Property Latest KNIGHT FRANK UNVEILS STUNNING PRIME MARKET OFFERING It is widely known that the prime London lettings market is exceeding all expectations; agents are witnessing competitive bids and a keen interest in luxury homes, from both the capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing professionals and those looking to relocate or invest from as far afield as the Middle East. Such demand shows no sign of abating with the launch of the attractive new

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GOOD TO SHARE If the buoyant lettings market has cultivated your enthusiasm for becoming a landlord then news that an agency has been founded which takes the stress out of finding tenants, is likely to be of interest. London Shared is a new service which specialises in managing shared accommodation. The agency rent from the landlord directly before helping young professionals moving to London find affordable, homes with like-minded individuals. Options such as three year agreements are also likely to give landlords the financial stability they require. www.londonshared.co.uk

Aldwych Apartments development. The brand new studio, one, two and three bedroom penthouse apartments are fully interior designed, air-conditioned and set in the heart of the capital making them idyllic retreats for busy city professionals. The units possess a breathtaking view of London and large open plan living areas which ensures they are perfect for entertaining and satisfy the most

discerning of tastes. Under-floor heating, private terraces and state-of-the-art en suite facilities are also included, while parking requirements can be accommodated on request. The apartments are available through the Wapping and Mayfair offices of Knight Frank. www.knightfrank.co.uk

PRIZE WINNING PROPERTY

NEWS IN BRIEF

LETTINGS UPDATE

The shortlist for the RIBA Manser Medal for the best new house or extension in the UK has been announced. The award is given in partnership with HSBC Private Bank and will see the architect of the winning design receive £10,000 and wide acclaim. Those on the shortlist include homes ranging in value from £500,000 to £2.6m, whether purposely designed

DECORATING DRAMAS According to a survey commissioned by Command Products, picture-hanging is one of the most avoided decorating practices for London residents. Over 64 per cent of the individuals surveyed admitted that they had prints they were yet to display and nearly a quarter suggested that they had up to five which needed to be placed. Despite being a relatively simple task, Londoners gave a variety of excuses for not completing the task, including the fear of damaging walls by drilling.

for open plan living, particularly energy efficient or with dedicated spaces for working at home. The aim is to recognise a project which has an excellent design, and a private house in London is among those fitting the bill, owing to its quirky glass construction which blends indoor and outdoor living. www.architecture.com

It is easy to think that the cost of living in London has increased astronomically in the past two years. However, it is important to remember that landlords are benefitting from high rental returns upon their initial investments too, meaning that it is still a great time to purchase a second property. Research from Knight Frank in Canary Wharf also shows that rental costs have surged recently, but over the longer term they have not kept pace with the increase in wages in the capital. This means that it is still relatively cheaper to rent a property in London than it was a decade ago. The number of tenancies started in the three months preceding August increased by 13 per cent.

TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION Property hunters of the past few months will recognise the increasing use of Quick Response Codes, a digital bar code which can link to information when scanned with the use of a smart phone and dedicated application. James Wyatt of Barton Wyatt admits the value of such tools: “The US market benefitted from the use of QR codes and owing to the smart phone obsession we think the new technology will be instrumental in securing property sales.” The information which can be accessed includes everything from price and description information to online property tours, speeding up the viewing process. In light of recent trends Google has estimated that over 50 per cent of property searches will use smart phones by the end of next year, while one billion people will own a suitable device by 2013.

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DEVELOPMENT FOCUS The Essence of Luxe Living stunning family homes, perfect for the city’s professionals, now available in a perfect commuting location

very so often we hear of a development which pairs prime London property standards with a rural setting and still enables a reasonable commute to the city centre.

Chigwell Grange Set on the tranquil fringes of the leafy Essex village of Chigwell is Chigwell Grange, a new development of 32 exclusive family homes. Just 16 miles from central London, the houses are perfect for those who commute to work in London yet want their evenings and weekends to be relaxed and away from the rat-race. The first phase of four has been recently completed, three of which are currently available for sale. Chigwell Grange is a green and gated space, with mature trees surrounding a small private garden. A large country park with woodland areas and a nature reserve has been created next to the site, and Epping Forest is just a few minutes away; surrounding Chigwell is a countryside full of charming pubs, village shops, a network of bridlepaths, footpaths and forest trails. The houses at Chigwell Grange have been designed in one of three styles, Magnolia, Cedar and Walnut, and are set apart from each other with large back gardens and a three-car driveway to the front of each. Individually designed to suit their plots, their living spaces are set over three floors or - in the Walnut style, four, with a basement area dedicated for a gym, steam room and also a large ‘den’ area, which could be used as a small screening room, opulent dining space or games room. Situated on the ground floor of each is a kitchen, dining room, reception room and hallway (and garage) and then over the first and second floors are the master bedroom suite with its private terrace, five more bedrooms and five further bathrooms, four of which are en suite. Each house is laid out slightlydifferently, chiming with the different exterior styles of the properties.

Location Chigwell is one of Essex’s gems, a favourite of professionals, sportsmen and their families. It is

are carpeted. The high specification finish is continued externally with traditional stone features and brickwork on the exterior of the house, a large double garage and contemporary fencing. The gardens have been landscaped with entertaining in mind, and the decking is surrounded by low walls containing outdoor illumination and builtin cooking and eating areas perfect for barbeques. n Prices for the three available homes start at £1.95m through Knight Frank, telephone: 020 7861 5444 www.knightfrank.com

under 45 minutes away from the City and the West End by tube, and connected by major roads to Cambridge and the Home Counties. Moreover, Luton, Stansted and City airports are in a 38-mile radius, making it easy to get away to the sun. Chigwell village has a long-standing community and an ambience of relaxed country life, with small boutique shops and cafes and oak-beamed pubs and restaurants. Its history stretches back to the the Doomsday book, and parts of the village church remain from their Norman origin.

Interiors and specification Demonstrated perfectly in the Walnut-style show home, the houses at Chigwell Grange are beautifully finished and use the finest materials throughout. Woods, marbles and stone have been selected and laid by specialist craftsmen to complement the large rooms and light spaces, while other areas possess a warmer, cosier feel. Large walk-in closets and hisand-hers bathrooms make a luxurious use of space, and form part of the ‘master suite’, a floor separate from the guest or children’s rooms upstairs. The houses are fitted throughout with an advanced mood lighting system with Lutron control panel, and each main living space and all bedrooms are wired for use with a Systemline Modular multi-room audio system. The three en-suite bathrooms are finished with Crema Marfil marble wall tiles and flooring with under floor heating. There are also Empoerader marble vanity tops while the family bathroom is fitted with limestone wall and floor tiles. The kitchens are designed by Alno with Miele appliances, integrated fridge freezers, wine cabinets, ovens and stained oak kitchen units with stone tops. All reception areas have walnut timber flooring, bespoke walnut doors and all the bedrooms

Star apartment The show home has been built in the ‘Walnut’ style and has been fully furnished. Not only is it fitted with high specification appliances and gadgets, it has been beautifully decorated with high quality soft furnishings. In the basement is a fully equipped gym with changing room, shower and sauna, and a media/games room. The media room is comfort-cooled with a bespoke bar and full height wine coolers. On the ground floor is the impressive stone-floored hallway with a galleried staircase. It is also ideally arranged for entertaining with a large kitchen/dining area with french doors leading onto the garden. On the first floor is the master suite which runs the length of the house and opens onto a private terrace which overlooks the garden. It is fitted with a flat screen TV, large dressing room and a spacious en suite bathroom. The first floor also provides a large bedroom with an en suite and two other large bedrooms, one of which has a private balcony, and a family bathroom. The second floor incorporates two en suite bedrooms which would be perfect as guest suites or for teenage children.

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19/9/11 9:22 PM

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I need the money now! Ron Radway considers the funding alternatives to mortgages

here are many occasions when a conventional mortgage is not necessarily the best way to raise funds, especially if the sum is required very quickly, or the applicant doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fit the profile a conventional lender expects. The obvious instance is where a borrower has a large early redemption penalty on their existing mortgage and they wish to raise extra finance. They can then raise the required capital as a separate issue, thereby negating the penalty. Alternatively, sometimes a borrower who has a prime mortgage that has been well maintained, but has acquired poor credit elsewhere, needs to raise additional finance. The usual option is to remortgage, but by doing this the borrower will be charged an adverse interest rate on the entire loan, rather than merely on the additional finance. Therefore, a secured loan can often provide the best solution. While the overall cost of borrowing is a major consideration, other factors should also be considered, such as speed. Typically secured loans can complete in less than 21 days and some in as little as ten days. Another possibility is bridging finance, a method

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of capital generation, used to maintain liquidity while waiting for a reasonably expected inflow of cash. Bridge financing is commonly used when the cash flow from a sale of an asset is expected after the cash outlay for the purchase of an asset. For example, when selling a house, having committed to a new one. Finally, a new entry into the market place offers an innovative and real alternative to conventional short term lending. This new lender, Borro, differs in the type of asset against which it will lend. Borro can lend from ÂŁ1,000 to ÂŁ1,000,000 against personal assets of high value such as jewellery and luxury cars. This particular route provides a valuable additional service, because it does not affect any funding already in place. These alternatives are a real solution to short term needs, but need to be carefully considered before commitment, and are best analysed with the help of an independent mortgage broker. n Ron Radway is a mortgage consultant with OneCall Financial Advice Centre. For further details visit www.onecallonline.co.uk or call 020 3174 0422

Photos of show home at Brunswick Terrace

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