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feature 12 Going For Gold We talk to gold medallists Victoria Pendleton MBE, Sarah Storey OBE and Phillips Idowu
TIME TO UNWIND
O Kick back, relax and enjoy the Games in style in one of OMEGA’s exclusive private residency rooms
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MEGA, The Official Timekeeper of the London 2012 Olympic Games, has established an exclusive private residence for members and invited guests from 29 July to 12 August. The exclusive venue will be located at The House of St Barnabas, a stunning Grade I listed Georgian townhouse in the historic heart of Soho. Guests will include members of Team GB as well as OMEGA Ambassador Nicole Kidman. Each room is beautifully decorated and designed specifically around OMEGA’s constellations. The Ladymatic Lounge, named for the brand’s stylish
mechanical watch for women, is subtly decorated in elegantly classic tones. The Hour Vision Atelier honours the brand’s Hour Vision line and recalls the exclusive clubs that have been part of London’s elite social scene for decades. The space-themed Speedmaster Bar, named after the first watch to be worn on the Moon, represents OMEGA’s nearly half-century relationship with NASA. The beautiful Secret Garden features a large screen television to watch all the Olympic action unfold; relax at the end of a long day while sipping on a cold beer, listening to the cheers for the great team GB. n
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24 Race Against Time
interview
Annabel Harrison speaks to Georges Kern,
feature
Going for
CEO of IWC, about the company’s role as Official Timekeeper of the Volvo Ocean Race
As the Games kick off, we talk to gold medallists Victoria Pendleton MBE, Sarah Storey OBE and Phillips Idowu about winning formulas, overcoming adversity and post-Games plans
PENDLETON’S PERFECT FAREWELL Team GB cycling favourite Victoria Pendleton MBE talks to Richard Aldhous about her final push for cycling gold There are currently two personas to the Victoria Pendleton machine. The first is, naturally, the lean, athletic, fantastically fit Olympian – a track cyclist who, along with other modern contemporaries Mark Cavendish and Sir Chris Hoy, has reenergised the sport with hard work, endeavour and no small amount of competitive style. The second version cuts a rather different image – long, graceful limbs draped exquisitely in couture; flawless looks and high cheekbones, gracing the catwalks of London Fashion Week and the pages of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Between the two opposing guises, it’s interesting to encounter a blend of both, as 31-year-old Pendleton bounds towards me in an innocuous hotel foyer in East London. Styled and primed, her attire is unswervingly sporty, but the striking Bedfordshire-born athlete carries with her all the impression of someone ultimately at home with the everbrightening media spotlight. “Sorry I’m late,” she smiles, flashing a model-like grin, seemingly unaware of the gazes still drawn to her from around the room. Is she aware of this? Or is it just an everyday occurrence? “There are people looking at me?” she responds. “I don’t know why they would be; no-one ever tends to recognise me. Sometimes I get the hint of ‘I know her’ but then I’m gone by the time they have had the chance to put two and two together.” Of course, the reason Victoria is so instantly recognisable at the moment is because, quite simply, the coming weeks will be the most important of her career. The huge scale publicity has already built to a level never previously experienced by Pendleton (nor Keri-Anne
concierge 60 The Trend: Interiors Relax and unwind while dreaming of sunkissed shores by turning your home into a summer haven, courtesy of Gabrielle Lane
Payne, Jessica Ennis, or any of the other female Olympic gold medal hopefuls). The marketing world, certainly, has been quick to push this glamorous trio into the spotlight. Heptathlete Ennis is the face of Olay while swimmer Payne is the perfect foil for Max Factor’s waterproof mascara range. As for Pendleton, a lucrative contract with Proctor and Gamble is making the reality of retirement post London 2012 that much less fearful. Could the world of modelling be the way forward for someone who, notwithstanding a stint working in a pub over a decade ago, has never actually had a regular job? “Let’s be honest – I’m covered top to toe in scratches, cuts and scars. I don’t think the modelling world will really embrace the Pendleton brand,” she laughs. “Don’t get me wrong, I love to dress up and the glamour treatment is really new and interesting to me, but I don’t think it’ll be my next move. I think my post-cycling career change requires a little more thought!” It’ll have to be a pretty special shift to equal a spectacular 13year career in one of the most physically demanding sports there is. A world champion sprinter five times running, Pendleton reached her peak at the Beijing Games, sweeping the competition favourites Australian Anna Meares and China’s Shuan Go aside to claim gold. Yet, surprisingly, she doesn’t see Beijing as her high point. “It was obviously an amazing chapter in my career, and an incredible thing to be a part of, but for me the highlight was when I picked up three gold medals at the World Championships in Palma in 2007. And even winning the Worlds in Los Angeles in 2005 probably ranks above my Olympic gold. I know what people expect me to say – that Beijing was the pinnacle. While the Olympics are often the peak for athletes, I don’t like to neglect my other achievements.” With that said, what pressure is she feeling to replicate her success in the coming weeks? “A lot,” she smiles. “A lot, a lot, a lot! From myself, from my country, I’m feeling it. It’s like an invisible force. It’s the same for any athlete who’s won gold at the Olympics.
“It makes me laugh when people say they don’t feel any pressure or expectation. That’s rubbish! It’s on home soil; the whole nation is watching. Whoever can say that’s ‘nothing’ is living in complete denial.” With great pressure comes great pride for the Bedfordshire native - her fiancé, Scott Gardner, is a sports scientist, and the perfect 24/7 coach. “Having Scott around is great. I don’t need to be kept steered because I’m totally focused anyway, but for those tough times – mentally and physically – it’s so good to have someone there who knows how my body works. “Let’s be frank, nothing will ever beat what’s about to happen this summer. For Team GB, we are some of the luckiest athletes in history because we’re on home soil. So many never get the chance to do that – to represent your country and feel such immense pride. I hope that my performance will top anything I’ve accomplished in the past. The experience of these Games will just be impossible to replicate — that’s why I’m calling it a day afterwards, and that’s why no stone will be left unturned.” The rewards could be huge – a new career, perhaps in the media, a wedding on the horizon, and the chance to put aside “a draconian diet of tasteless proteins and carbs”. “I think in many ways sport will always be a massive part of my life. I’ll still be out on my bike, and will be looking after my body in the same way I have been all these years. I know some people retire and let everything go, but fitness is an addiction... and not a bad one to have, so I’ll be looking to keep myself in shape. Being active has been such a big part of my life that it would feel unnatural to suddenly turn my back on that. “And if my last burst of competitive action can see me crossing the finishing line in first place, then that would be the perfect way to leave the sport.”
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calibre 64 I Am Legend Sir Matthew Pinsent tells us about his Games excitement, career highs and lows and why
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he’s happy not to be rowing this time around
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76 Fuel For Thought Richard Brown talks to BP’s London 2012
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Partnership Director, Mike Sharrock, about environmental legacies, carbon footprints and running the 100 metre final
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Annabel Harrison
Why? Forgive and Forget While battling with the rushhour commute this month, your toes getting crushed and your patience wearing thin, take a deep breath, smile and forgive the Tube. 7 August marks International Forgiveness Day - and even extends to inanimate objects.
Deputy Editor Kari Rosenberg
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Where? Venice
The 69th edition of the Venice International Film Festival will take place from 29 August to 8 September, having celebrated its 80th anniversary on 6 August. The jury is chaired by director Michael Mann with artist Marina Abramovic, among others.
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What? Aesthetic Athletics In Fitter, Quicker, Longer, artist Graham Dean focuses on athletes just prior to or after a sporting event. The exhibition runs until 12 August at The Waterhouse & Dodd Gallery, W1S 3ND. Free entry Monday-Friday 9.30am-6pm. www.waterhousedodd.com
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When? 16 August
“I never expected to be anybody important.” So said the Mississippi born King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Marking 35 years since Elvis Presley’s untimely death at the age of 42, he remains one of the best-selling solo artists of all time with worldwide sales of around one billion units.
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Editor-in-Chief
the W-list... Deputy Editor Kari Rosenberg highlights the key people, places and events in August. As well as all the fun and Games, don’t miss the wonderful Fitter, Quicker, Longer exhibition (see our front cover), get comic-clued-up as Spider-Man marks his 50th year and of course, indulge in some red-carpet film-star glamour
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Who? Spider-Man Comic book aficionados will already know that 10 August marks the 50th anniversary of Spider-Man first appearing in a comic, featuring in Amazing Fantasy issue 15. The character was created by writer-editor Stan Lee and writer-artist Steve Ditko.
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from the editor...
August
T
he most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part. The essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.” This quotation appeared on the scoreboard at the 1948 Olympic Games in London, attributed at the time to Baron de Coubertin, founder of the International Olympic Committee, but later revealed to have been uttered by the Bishop of Pennsylvania in 1908. However, this month, after seven years of building anticipation since winning the bid, it will not only be the world’s best athletes taking part in the Games; Great Britain as a nation will also be taking part, as events kick off around the country and throughout London. I, for one, am thrilled to be in the thick of the action and will be cheering on Team GB as its athletes run, swim, sail, cycle, jump, row, throw, hit and kick in their pursuit of victory. For the world-class athletes from every country, thousands of hours of training, hundreds of hours of competing and countless hours spent honing their nutrition, fitness and form culminate this summer in what must surely be one of, if not the, greatest moments of their sporting careers. Over the past few months, we have been fortunate enough to speak to a host of medal hopefuls; following Tom Daley and Rebecca Adlington, we speak to Victoria Pendleton MBE,
Sarah Storey OBE and Phillips Idowu (pp. 12-16) about the training, the pressure, the excitement and how it feels to be contending on home soil. For those of you as interested in looking back as forward, enjoy Sir Matthew Pinsent reminiscing about his glorious career (p. 64) and Janie Hampton, author of London Olympics 1908 and 1948, explaining how much things have changed both for competitors and spectators (p. 18). By the time you read this, Danny Boyle will have masterminded the delivery of the highly anticipated Opening Ceremony, but we are fully confident in his ability to capture the spirit of the nation (p. 10). However, if you’re not quite as keen as we are to be here for every second of the Games, it’s not too late to make a last-minute getaway, whether you want sunshine or sport, culture or clubbing. Read our reviews of Sorrento (p. 86), Miami (p. 90) and Marbella (p. 94) to help make the decision easier. Good luck Team GB!
Annabel Harrison Editor
Olympic Stadium CGI © Populous
Opening Credits
The pressure’s on, as choreographer Danny Boyle applies the finishing touches to the Games’ Opening Ceremony, finds Shaun Curran
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put the ceremony into the record books for something trivial. The brief really is to do something totally different. I don’t think the UK could quite top the spectacular theatrics of 2008, nor do I think we’d want to attempt to,” he admits. “It’s unfeasibly foolish to try because it was such a huge, astonishing spectacle. Beijing was the summit of a specific type of show, so let’s leave it to one side and think differently.” The Opening Ceremony has become an increasingly memorable aspect of every Olympic Games. From the iconic image of Muhammed Ali with the Olympic torch in Atlanta in 1996 to the historic beauty and notional legacy of Athens 2004, the Opening Ceremony has in its own way come to define the Games it introduces. One only has to recall the pomp of Beijing 2008, a four-hour extravaganza, to realise the lasting impression it can make.
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ow would you define Britishness? It’s a notion that means wildly different things to different people. To distil its essence concisely is an unenviable task - some would say ‘impossible’- yet in a sense that’s what’s been asked of filmmaker and producer Danny Boyle. “Before I even started on the detail, I guess I had to compartmentalise my own emotions,” says Boyle. “Honour, humility, modesty, sure... but a feeling of being completely overwhelmed – yes. Fear, that too. Even panic. “This is the biggest thing I’ve ever done. It can’t be taken lightly – any of it – and it’s constant... every day, every hour. And the pressure just continues to grow.” Danny Boyle, whose official title this summer is Artistic Director of the London 2012 Opening Ceremony, was charged with creating a spectacle that is not only befitting of the greatest show on earth, but also manages to showcase unique British (and global) idiosyncrasies, in the simple knowledge that over one billion people are fixing their gaze on his vision. “It often feels like I’ve bitten off way more than I can chew, but it’s such an amazing honour to be involved in the Games this summer. There are a huge number of people involved, and though I’m on my own in some respects, I’m definitely sitting alongside knowledgeable colleagues in others. I’ll owe them all a large drink once the lights go down on 27 July.” The selection of Boyle was at first regarded as slightly leftfield, but his credentials are there for all to see. As director of Trainspotting, A Life Less Ordinary and, most recently, Slumdog Millionaire, Boyle has produced a majestic body of work that, at every turn, encompasses the spirit and personality of the human race. “In many ways this project is no different to any other. It’s an opportunity to bring something new and fresh – not an imitation of anything else. And they’re really the principles I attach to all my work. “Of course, in sport, there is a difference. This is about young people, brilliant people. It’s about sending out a message encouraging participation, encouraging an investment in culture. That’s what I want the ceremony to represent. That’s the message I want to get out there.” And although the ceremony must relate to a global audience, Boyle admits this essence must have Britishness at its heart. It’s for that reason William Shakespeare’s The Tempest provides the cornerstone of his vision for a ceremony he has named Isle of Wonders. It features what will be Europe’s biggest ringing bell – twice the weight of Big Ben – as well as more than 10,000 performers who among their number include schoolchildren and NHS nurses. Music is provided by Underworld, the techno duo whose Born Slippy soundtrack provided the backing for Trainspotting, although their contribution earns them a fractionally small part of the total £81million price tag – a three-fold increase on the initial Opening Ceremony cost projection. The figure, not to mention the level of responsibility, is daunting, but Boyle admits he must see past the numbers. “What’s the brief? Not to spend the most money, not to
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“This is the biggest thing I’ve ever done. It can’t be taken lightly – any of it – and it’s constant... every day, every hour” “It’s a huge thing and, for us, I think music must be a big part. For such a small nation, we possess such incredible musical talent and I want to utilise that fantastic resource available to us. The world looks to Britain as a beacon of music. Again it’s about inspiring the young people and one of the ways to do that will be through music. Getting Underworld to oversee the ceremony is the final piece of the puzzle. I can’t wait for the result. “And do I regret the workload, the stress, the headaches? Definitely not. It’s an amazing responsibility that I said yes to straightaway. In hindsight, a little more thought may have been wise, but I would still have said yes in the end anyway – after all, I’m a huge sports fan, I live in the East End... I had to say yes. It just felt so right”. n
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Going for As the Games kick off, we talk to gold medallists Victoria Pendleton MBE, Sarah Storey OBE and Phillips Idowu about winning formulas, overcoming adversity and post-Games plans
PENDLETON’S PERFECT FAREWELL Team GB cycling favourite Victoria Pendleton MBE talks to Richard Aldhous about her final push for cycling gold There are currently two personas to the Victoria Pendleton machine. The first is, naturally, the lean, athletic, fantastically fit Olympian – a track cyclist who, along with other modern contemporaries Mark Cavendish and Sir Chris Hoy, has reenergised the sport with hard work, endeavour and no small amount of competitive style. The second version cuts a rather different image – long, graceful limbs draped exquisitely in couture; flawless looks and high cheekbones, gracing the catwalks of London Fashion Week and the pages of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Between the two opposing guises, it’s interesting to encounter a blend of both, as 31-year-old Pendleton bounds towards me in an innocuous hotel foyer in East London. Styled and primed, her attire is unswervingly sporty, but the striking Bedfordshire-born athlete carries with her all the impression of someone ultimately at home with the everbrightening media spotlight. “Sorry I’m late,” she smiles, flashing a model-like grin, seemingly unaware of the gazes still drawn to her from around the room. Is she aware of this? Or is it just an everyday occurrence? “There are people looking at me?” she responds. “I don’t know why they would be; no-one ever tends to recognise me. Sometimes I get the hint of ‘I know her’ but then I’m gone by the time they have had the chance to put two and two together.” Of course, the reason Victoria is so instantly recognisable at the moment is because, quite simply, the coming weeks will be the most important of her career. The huge scale publicity has already built to a level never previously experienced by Pendleton (nor Keri-Anne
Payne, Jessica Ennis, or any of the other female Olympic gold medal hopefuls). The marketing world, certainly, has been quick to push this glamorous trio into the spotlight. Heptathlete Ennis is the face of Olay while swimmer Payne is the perfect foil for Max Factor’s waterproof mascara range. As for Pendleton, a lucrative contract with Proctor and Gamble is making the reality of retirement post London 2012 that much less fearful. Could the world of modelling be the way forward for someone who, notwithstanding a stint working in a pub over a decade ago, has never actually had a regular job? “Let’s be honest – I’m covered top to toe in scratches, cuts and scars. I don’t think the modelling world will really embrace the Pendleton brand,” she laughs. “Don’t get me wrong, I love to dress up and the glamour treatment is really new and interesting to me, but I don’t think it’ll be my next move. I think my post-cycling career change requires a little more thought!” It’ll have to be a pretty special shift to equal a spectacular 13year career in one of the most physically demanding sports there is. A world champion sprinter five times running, Pendleton reached her peak at the Beijing Games, sweeping the competition favourites Australian Anna Meares and China’s Shuan Go aside to claim gold. Yet, surprisingly, she doesn’t see Beijing as her high point. “It was obviously an amazing chapter in my career, and an incredible thing to be a part of, but for me the highlight was when I picked up three gold medals at the World Championships in Palma in 2007. And even winning the Worlds in Los Angeles in 2005 probably ranks above my Olympic gold. I know what people expect me to say – that Beijing was the pinnacle. While the Olympics are often the peak for athletes, I don’t like to neglect my other achievements.” With that said, what pressure is she feeling to replicate her success in the coming weeks? “A lot,” she smiles. “A lot, a lot, a lot! From myself, from my country, I’m feeling it. It’s like an invisible force. It’s the same for any athlete who’s won gold at the Olympics.
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“It makes me laugh when people say they don’t feel any pressure or expectation. That’s rubbish! It’s on home soil; the whole nation is watching. Whoever can say that’s ‘nothing’ is living in complete denial.” With great pressure comes great pride for the Bedfordshire native - her fiancé, Scott Gardner, is a sports scientist, and the perfect 24/7 coach. “Having Scott around is great. I don’t need to be kept steered because I’m totally focused anyway, but for those tough times – mentally and physically – it’s so good to have someone there who knows how my body works. “Let’s be frank, nothing will ever beat what’s about to happen this summer. For Team GB, we are some of the luckiest athletes in history because we’re on home soil. So many never get the chance to do that – to represent your country and feel such immense pride. I hope that my performance will top anything I’ve accomplished in the past. The experience of these Games will just be impossible to replicate — that’s why I’m calling it a day afterwards, and that’s why no stone will be left unturned.” The rewards could be huge – a new career, perhaps in the media, a wedding on the horizon, and the chance to put aside “a draconian diet of tasteless proteins and carbs”. “I think in many ways sport will always be a massive part of my life. I’ll still be out on my bike, and will be looking after my body in the same way I have been all these years. I know some people retire and let everything go, but fitness is an addiction... and not a bad one to have, so I’ll be looking to keep myself in shape. Being active has been such a big part of my life that it would feel unnatural to suddenly turn my back on that. “And if my last burst of competitive action can see me crossing the finishing line in first place, then that would be the perfect way to leave the sport.”
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AN UNLIKELY STOREY Paralympian Sarah Storey OBE, tells Stephen Milton about her incredible ride to Olympic gold Much is made of Sir Steve Redgrave and his brief double folly with Olympic team sports. The Games legend, disillusioned with rowing in the early years of his career, shunned the water for a crack at the ice as part of the nation’s bobsled team. As it turned out, a couple of near death experiences sent him straight back to the oars, and he never actually made it to the Winter Games. Sarah Storey, on the other hand, has managed what so many before, and after, can only dream of: medal glory in dual events at the Games. The former swimming champ, born without a functioning left hand after her arm became entangled in the umbilical cord in the womb, claimed five gold medals at the Paralympic Games in Barcelona and Athens in an array of pool disciplines, before swapping over to the cycle track and picking up two golds in Beijing for individual pursuit. With the London Games in full swing, 35-year-old Storey has medal glory at the Stratford Velodrome in her sights. But did she ever consider competing at both sports at the same Paralympics? “That was something that I considered,” she says. “I mean, how amazing would it have been to do that? But unfortunately, most of the events clash and run on the same day, so it was never something that was going to be feasible. It’d be one hell of a challenge, mind you, one I’d be well up for. But for the time being, it’s not something that’s possible. “And anyway, swimming makes me too big; I gain too much muscle when I compete in the water, particularly in my shoulders, and it makes them too wide for the bike. I’ve now lost 12 centimetres across my shoulders which makes me more aerodynamic on wheels. If I gained that back, it would be detrimental to my cycling.” After the 2004 Athens Games, where she won silver in the 200m individual medley and 100m breaststroke, Storey was struck down with a series of ear infections which made it impossible for her to train in the water. The opportunity to
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switch to two wheels was a fortunate alternative, although she perhaps didn’t see it like that at the time. “It was a worry. I had a career, I had something I loved, and there was the chance it was going to be taken away from me. I just started cycling as a way to keep fit, mostly in the gym, then stepped it up to using the track at the Velodrome in Manchester. First it was just a way of staying in shape. “But I was clocking up some good times, so the powers that be recommended putting me forward for a new discipline. I soon secured selection for the European Championships and was progressing well. My ear problems had cleared up so I had a choice to make. And at the end of the day, I think I’d achieved all I wanted to in the pool anyway. Starting again from scratch on the bike represented something completely different and a real challenge that most people never get, so it seemed right just to go for it.” Following success at the Athens Games, Sarah was given the chance to train with the able bodied Olympic pursuit team and even went on to compete with them at several international meetings, recording the second fastest time in British female pursuit history at last year’s World Championships. Naturally, talk of representing her country at the Olympics began to surface, a challenge Storey knew she could take on along with her Paralympic commitments. But for reasons unbeknownst to her, the opportunity didn’t come off. “Physically, there was no issue with my fitness,” she tells, “and my disability was no issue as far as I was aware. I was breaking records, doing everything that was asked of me. But it wasn’t to be with the selectors, and it’s one of those things, I guess. “I could have pursued it but, honestly, I was too busy with my training to even consider that. What will be will be.” On the final leg of training before D-Day, what are Sarah’s hopes for herself and Team GB? “To win everything!” she laughs. “I’ve got five events in the Games so my dream is to pick up five golds. And I’d love to see Great Britain in the top five of the Olympics medal table, and top of the table in the Paralympics, which is something very possible with the squad we’ve got. It’s a lofty aim, but that’s what competitive sport is all about, and I can’t wait to get started.”
“It was a worry. I had a career, I had something I loved, and there was the chance it was going to be taken away.”
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THREE STEPS TO HEAVEN Team GB triple jumper Phillips Idowu tells Stephen Milton why London 2012 is so special The fire engine red locks have gone and the metal piercings appear notably reduced in number (save for some rather sparkly ear studs). When Phillips Idowu emerged onto the catwalk for Stella McCartney’s Olympic strip unveiling, it seemed his indomitable blazing spirit – the very one that saw him quit the Delhi Commonwealth Games two years ago, sparking an incendiary hurricane within the higher echelons of British athletics – had been snuffed out. But taking his first swaggered stride on the runway, chest puffed out, confidence emanating, it’s obvious the Idowu we know and fervently admire is still amongst us – he’s just had a minor makeover. And when I meet the medal winning Olympian, Phillips is still as overzealously passionate as always. This is a man who gives ‘vague’ the wide berth when airing his opinions, not least when we broach the subject of his current training regime and designs on gold. Phillips really does tell it like it is. “I’ll be honest, I’m getting a little tired of going over and over my training schedule, like it’s the perfect blueprint for gold,” he says, rather bluntly, but with the hint of a smile. “Yes, of course that is my goal, I want gold, but with triple jump, it’s a matter of chance on the day. It’s how you feel when you get up in the morning, or a change of wind speed, or anything like that. I’m not saying it’s down to luck but it’s as much to do with how you feel on the day, in combination with how much you’ve trained.” When the British Olympic team takes to the stadium in Stratford for the Opening Ceremony, it’ll mark a surging culmination of pride and national solidarity for those dedicated few competing. For Phillips, who grew up a few steps away in Hackney, it means so much more; it’s the prodigal son coming home. “East London’s where I realised I was good at sport, where
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I was encouraged and motivated by very special people in my life, who pushed me to be the man I could be, and who steered me away from the gangs and crime. I could have fallen into that, very easily. “For everybody in the British team, everyone there with me, the pride of competing on home soil is like nothing else. However, for me, who grew up only a few hundred yards away, it’s a rite of passage, one that I’ve been working towards ever since London won the honour of hosting the Games back in 2005. I’m coming home.” Towering at a Sequoian 6’5’’, Phillips is a looming, foreboding presence, all sinewy, with trunkish biceps, clad in lycra that his thighs seem to almost pop out from. Get this athlete roused and one would imagine it would stir the Bruce Banner within. However, Idowu, who was denied gold in Beijing by Portugal’s Nelson Evora, pulled out of the Delhi Commonwealth Games at the 11th hour, citing family commitments. In addition, he incurred the wrath of the head chief of UK athletics, Charles van Commenee, when he, via Twitter, revealed that he did not intend to compete at an athletics meeting in Stockholm. Van Commenne publicly denounced the Olympian at the time, but have relations seen a rise in temperature? “It is what it is,” he admits. “It’s something between us but, at the end of the day, I did what I had to do as a father. I wanted to be there for my kids. I’m a father first, athlete second. It’ll blow over.” Most importantly, over all else, will the father of two, whose main competition for the winner’s podium comes in the forms of France’s Teddy Tamgho and American Christian Taylor, resurrect his flamboyant look for the Games? After all, it wouldn’t be a normal Phillips show if we couldn’t spot him from the top tier of the stadium, sporting the latest in eccentric hairdressing? He smiles, “You just might. I’m feeling a bit of colour coming on again.” n
Olympics& Past Present Janie Hampton looks back to the 1908 and 1948 ‘Austerity’ London Games – and how sport has changed through the 20th century
history
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hen Vesuvius blew its top in 1906, Rome withdrew from hosting the Olympic Games, and London had to step in. In ten months, the White City in Shepherd’s Bush was built, a huge complex of gleaming white shopping malls, palaces of arts, boating lakes and amusements. The sports arena, with its running and cycling track, football pitch, gymnastics and wrestling platforms, held 90,000 people. Ladies clad in woollen costumes thrilled the spectators with their high diving. All three medals in the tug of war were won by British teams of policemen – the City of London, Liverpool and the Metropolitan. Mary, Princess of Wales, began the marathon from Windsor Castle. More than 50 men set off, followed by their coaches on bicycles. The Americans had soaked their socks in tallow wax while the Canadians bathed their feet in whisky and alum. Drugs were banned, but ‘stimulants’ such as calves’ foot jelly and champagne were allowed. When Diandro Pietri, an Italian pastry maker, arrived at the White City stadium, the crowd gasped in horror as he staggered in the wrong direction, then collapsed. Two officials helped him over the finish line and he was declared the winner. Hours later, he was disqualified and Johnny Hayes from the USA was awarded the gold medal. But only a few days before, the Bishop of Pennsylvania had preached that, “The important thing in Olympics is not so much winning as taking part. The essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.” So when the medals were handed out, Pietri received larger cheers than Hayes, as Queen Alexandra presented him with a special gold cup. The Winter Olympics back in 1908 included figure skating at the smart Prince’s Skating Rink in Knightsbridge. Madge Syers, the daughter of a British hosiery merchant, set the fashion for wearing coloured short skirts. The total cost of arranging the Games was £15,000 (£850,000 in today’s money) with a total profit of £6,377. When London was selected for the 1948 Games, much of the city had been destroyed by the Blitz, but there was neither the time nor the money to build any new arenas. So at the Empire Pool (now Wembley Arena) the ice-skating rink was removed and the pool renovated for swimming. Cycling took place at Herne Hill Velodrome, a war-time barrage balloon site; Finland donated timber to replace the rotting floor at Harringay Arena for basketball. The King lent his back garden – Windsor Great Park – for the cycle road race. At Wembley Stadium, the greyhound track was replaced with a cinder track and German prisoners of war pushed wheelbarrows to create Olympic Way, leading from Wembley Park station. The road is still there today. The 59 national teams were housed in RAF and army camps, schools and colleges. More than 30 ‘Housing Centres’ were equipped by the Ministry of Works with ‘Utility’ curtains, crockery and wardrobes. While bedding was provided, competitors had to
bring their own towels and soap. “There were no parties at RAF Uxbridge,” remembered sprinter Alastair McCorquodale. “Just training and early to bed. No alcohol was available; only gallons of Horlick’s malted milk.” The British male team were each issued with a black blazer, tie and two pairs of white Y-front pants. Women had to use clothes-ration coupons for uniforms. The sexes were strictly segregated, and at the cramped Domestic Science College behind Victoria station, Micheline Ostermeyer, the French discus thrower and concert pianist, entertained the women with Beethoven. Spectators could pay five shillings a night to sleep on camp beds in a marquee set up in Northwick Park near Harrow. With food rationing still in place, British athletes had trained on 2,600 calories per day, which was only increased to dockers’ rations of 3,900 calories once they were selected. “Eat plenty of cooked beetroot,” advised Britain’s swimming coach Harry Koskie. “And at least one halibut oil capsule per day.”Angus Carmicheal, an Olympic footballer, found it helped to wear his Olympic blazer. It was quite embarrassing. Restaurants would pile up your plate with extra food saying “Eat up, we need to build up the British team”. At the housing centres, commercial restaurants catered on a budget of 25 shillings (£1.25) per day per competitor. Veerswarmy’s Indian restaurant, still open near Regent Street, cooked for the 100 Indians and Burmese staying at Pinner County School. Teams were encouraged to bring and share food. Denmark sent 160,000 eggs; China sent oiled bamboo shoots, dried shrimps and green tea. The Americans were very popular with their 15,000 bars of chocolate, 5,000 steaks and daily flights from Los Angeles of planes filled with fresh fruit. The French team sent one railway wagon filled with ‘premier cru classe’ Mouton-Rothschild wine, and another with 1,700 kilos of steak. “Drugs?” exclaimed Joe Birrell. “We had drugs in 1948. We ate Horlicks tablets by the handful! With no sweets available, they were a real treat.” Petrol was strictly rationed, so all competitors had free passes for the recently-nationalised London Transport buses and Underground. Corporate sponsorship was accepted from Coca-Cola, Nescafé, Craven “A” cigarettes, Gillette Razors, Martel Brandy, Sloane’s Liniment and Brylcreem. The total expenditure was £732,268 – about £20 million in today’s money. “These were the friendliest and least political of all Olympics,” said silver medal winning high-jumper Dorothy Tyler, now 92, who competed in four Olympics. “All sports took on a new glow after 1948. It was like the sun finally coming out after the war.” Despite the bomb sites and deep economic crisis, the London 1948 Games, or ‘Austerity Olympics’, were one of the most successful, inexpensive and unpretentious games of the 20th century. n Janie Hampton is the author of London Olympics 1908 and 1948, Shire Books, £6.99 www.shirebooks.co.uk
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Left: Emil Zatopek of Czechoslovakia set a new Olympic record Above, top: Rowing pairs race upstream towards the finish at Leander Club, Henleyon-Thames Above, bottom: Jock and Malcolm Dalrymple - the only father and son to compete in Olympic javelin throwing
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We prefer not to be measured by dimensions. Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.
No fewer than four exceptional mechanisms enhance the precision of the RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite”: the tiny fusée-and-chain transmission, the delicate tourbillon, the ultra-thin Lange balance spring, and – not least – the patented stop-seconds device for the tourbillon which makes it possible to
set the watch with one-second accuracy in the first place. Never before has an A. Lange & Söhne watch been endowed with so many complications that simultaneously enhance its rate accuracy, settability, and readability. And so, this remarkable timepiece truly deserves the honorary attribute “Pour le Mérite”.
Arije 165, Sloane Street London • George Pragnell 5 and 6, Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon Hamilton & Inches 87, George Street, Edinburgh • Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London Watches of Switzerland 16, New Bond Street, London • Wempe 43-44, New Bond Street, London Lange Uhren GmbH • Tel. +34 91 454 89 82 • www.lange-soehne.com
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interview IWc’’s georges kern jewellery road to el dorado men’s trend gold standard ..............
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a stroke of brilliance
In the year of the Diamond Jubilee, jewellery editor of British Vogue Carol Woolton presented a specially curated diamond exhibition at Masterpiece London 2012
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ith diamonds and royalty having a long-standing association, Carol Woolton felt inspired to look at the changing role of diamonds in all aspects of modern art. The exhibition Brilliant showcased a rare collection of diamond jewels that showed off the ingenuity of some of the top contemporary jewellery designers. By structuring the diamonds according to four disciplines (art, architecture, fashion, and sculpture) and with pieces ranging from a black diamond collar (Karl Lagerfeld) to a
skull miniature King pendant (Dior), Woolton invited viewers to challenge the ways in which the coveted gems are seen by modern society. She commented: “With the Diamond Jubilee putting a spotlight on the Crown Jewels and historic Royal Regalia, Brilliant shows how diamonds, imbued with their own billion year old history and majestic role in Britain’s heritage, remain relevant in our modern lives and at the forefront of ground-breaking contemporary design”. n Above: The Talisman Wonder, POA De Beers Diamond Jewellers, 020 7758 9788
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watches
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3 of the best...
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Skeleton Watches
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We lay bare the mesmerising internal workings of intricate timepieces
Masterpiece Le Chronographe Squelette £13,600, Maurice Lacroix www.mauricelacroix.com
Bremont’s First Boutique “We’re not a flashy brand, not showy,” said Nick English, joint co-founder of Bremont, when we interviewed him in March. “We’re for people who like the understated feeling of having something special on their wrist.” And clearly a lot of people do; since launching in 2007, the company’s growth has been nothing short of astounding. Having expanded its presence into 40 retailers across the world, winning various awards along the way, the brand now celebrates
the launch of its first standalone boutique, located on Mayfair’s South Audley Street. “As a British company we felt we needed a showcase to promote ourselves to visitors from all around the world,” said Giles English, Nick’s brother and joint co-founder. “The boutique will be more than a traditional watch store.” With an explorers’ club based there, a considerable watch library and the unique Bremont B-1 Marine Clock, we deem it certainly worth a visit.
Villeret Squelette 8 Jours, £47,440, Blancpain www.blancpain.com
One to Watch This month Sandy Madhvani, Showroom Manager at David M Robinson in Canary Wharf, selects his watch of the moment
“One of the more detailed of Panerai’s pieces, the striking 00270 still comes with the company’s instantly recognisable brushed steel crown protector and 1950s-inspired looks”
00270, £10,800, Panerai Available at David M Robinson, Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf
Grande Complication Squelette, POA, Cartier www.cartier.com
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Race against
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The 2011-2012 Volvo Ocean Race drew to an action-packed, adrenaline-fuelled close in Galway, Ireland on 7 July, nine months after its six teams began an arduous 39,270 nautical mile trip. Annabel Harrison speaks to Georges Kern, CEO of IWC, about the company’s role as Official Timekeeper and the level of ability, spirit and technology required to compete
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Clockwise from top: Pilots Watch Mark XVII; Photopress / Jesus Renedo; Portuguese Yacht Club Edition, Volvo Ocean Race; Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, Photopress / Nick Dana; Photopress / Nick Dana; back of the Portuguese Yacht Club Edition, Volvo Ocean Race
he most physically demanding; the most technically challenging; the most competitive; the toughest; the longest... The more I learn about it, the more I realise that there aren’t enough superlatives to describe the sheer scale of the Volvo Ocean Race. The level of skill required to compete is far and above mere nautical competence; the sailors must be the best of the best because their lives are, quite literally, in their own hands and in those of their comrades. They are among some of the fittest and strongest men in the world and with necessity, given how often they are at the brutal, unpredictable mercy of the sea. If you think this sounds overly dramatic, remember that during the 2006 race, tragedy struck when Hans Horrevoets was swept overboard and drowned during a particularly bad storm. This is not for the faint-hearted. However, for all the adversity and agony the race entails, it is thrilling and awe-inspiring in equal measure. Having kicked off with an in-port race at Alicante on 29 October last year, the race itself started the following weekend on 5 November, comprising six Volvo Open 70s with a crew of 11, made up of Olympic gold medallists, world champions and America’s Cup winners, as well as representatives of 15 nations. The six teams were Groupama sailing team, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing (the first United Arab Emirates entrant), PUMA Ocean Racing powered by BERG, CAMPER with Emirates Team New Zealand, Team Telefónica and Team Sanya (the first sole Chinese entry). The race came to its climax at Galway, having travelled from Alicante via the far-flung locations of Cape Town, Abu Dhabi, Sanya, Auckland, Itajai, Miami, Lisbon and Lorient. The logistics for the host cities are quite incredible; in every city, a Volvo Pavilion of enormous scope and complexity, with smaller pavilions for every main sponsor, is erected (and I discover that there are two travelling the length of the course, alternating cities, as each takes such a long time to construct). Travelling to Galway for the end of the race, as a guest of IWC, I saw firsthand an example of how fantastic the atmosphere is in the host port; lively street parties are held to welcome the teams and the effect is so
overwhelmingly positive that cities bid for the chance to host the race. In addition to its role as Official Timekeeper of the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012, IWC is the sponsor, along with Etihad Airways, of the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team. When I ask CEO Georges Kern why this partnership was forged, he explains that “IWC Schaffhausen and the Volvo Ocean Race share the same spirit: unique brands, known for inventiveness, technical excellence, outstanding craftsmanship, masculinity and adventure.” During the course of the race, IWC worked closely with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority to support the marketing activities of the Volvo Ocean Race and to underpin the presence of the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team. As such, Abu Dhabi was a host city from 1 to 14 January this year and the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority organised
The Portuguese watch family, embodies IWC’s legacy of seafaring and navigation celebrations and activities in honour of the Volvo Ocean Race not just at the host port but throughout the country. It is a first for IWC to have “such a high calibre sponsorship agreement in team sport”. However, one of its most popular timepieces confirms and explains the brand’s inextricable, long-standing relationship with sailing; “It is part of our Portuguese watch family’s DNA. The first Portuguese appeared in 1939 in response to a request for a wristwatch with the precision of a marine chronometer. As part of its further development, we built a man’s wristwatch designed for the hardships of life on stormy seas. So the fact that IWC has committed itself to sailing is firmly rooted in the history of this watch family.” The Portuguese family, one of the most traditionally styled to be manufactured by IWC Schaffhausen, embodies the IWC legacy of seafaring and navigation and, as such, at the end of the race, the crew members of the boat that set up the fastest of all the 24-hour records, CAMPER, were given a Portuguese Yacht Club Chronograph Edition Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012. The watch was available exclusively during the race itself but, Kern points
out, “it is possible that a few remaining examples will still be available from retailers for a short time after the race has finished”. This chronograph was designed as “the perfect companion for competitive sailors: a reliable, functional timepiece, perfected down to the smallest detail, that perpetuates the precision of dedicated nautical instruments.” IWC was present on the official starting boat during the countdown, at the Media Centre – showing the time at all VOR destinations – and at each of the race villages. In addition to the final award for the fastest of all the 24-hour records, IWC awarded a trophy for each leg as part of the IWC Schaffhausen Speed Record Challenge to the team which had completed the greatest distance within a period of 24 hours. The Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team was under the able skippership of two-time Olympic champion Ian Walker of Great Britain, greeted at various ports and at the end of the race by his wife and two children. His team sailed in a Volvo Open 70 racing yacht, Azzam, (Arabic for ‘determination’) which is, technologically speaking, one of the most advanced boats of its kind; taking 49,000 hours to design and build, it weighs 14 tonnes, has a 31-metre high mast and can reach a top speed of 72 km/h. It is clear to me why IWC would want to be involved with this race; it seems to be completely unique and on an unprecedented scale. Despite not being a sailing aficionado, I find plenty of the detail utterly fascinating and the prowess of the teams nothing short of remarkable. Kern is also certain about the benefit to his brand: “[The race] holds enormous potential for IWC as a sponsor and partner, and has many features in common with our brand DNA and IWC’s brand values. The race is unquestionably a major attraction for men and thus appeals directly to the Schaffhausen manufacturer’s core target group. “Engineered for men” is basically IWC’s manifesto.” Kern is clearly passionate about his “multi-faceted and challenging” role at IWC: “It involves activities such as overseeing the recent opening of the Flagship Boutique in New York and the further expansion of the manufacturing site. Then there’s the new, global partnership with the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One team. Not only am I privileged to participate in
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the creation of fascinating products: I represent them to the public, as well as managing our operating business.” This representation to the public, however, can be fraught with challenges. Gone are the days where a brand image could be cultivated by carefully placed print ads; nowadays, “consumers are exposed to so many influences that you have to put together an excellent package. That package must fit the brand. It must reflect the core brand values and somehow make them sexy.” As such, every IWC watch family and product line follows its own, unmistakable theme and story. Sailing is, of course, a strong thread of the brand’s fabric, as are aviation and diving. Hollywood also has strong roots, Kern points out, listing a starfilled roll-call including Cate Blanchett, Kevin Spacey, Jean Reno and Marc Forster: “Our presence at the Cannes and Dubai Film Festivals is a natural part of this.” Essentially, because IWC believes that “the luxury industry is all about selling dreams”, evocative stories about the pioneers of aviation (Saint-Exupéry, Spitfire, Top Gun) and heroes in the worlds of navigation, sailing and diving accompany each ‘watch family’. “Telling these stories may very well not be a necessity, but it certainly adds emotional value to the brand and therefore intrigues the customer beyond his potential passion for Haute Horlogerie,” explains Kern. Because the world of sport has always held such a significance, giving back in this sphere is also important to IWC: “We support institutions like the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation [which uses sport as a vehicle for its commitment to social projects] and we establish partnerships with organizations working against climate change and environmental damage.” Special editions of IWC watches are launched to support specific projects and provide a financial contribution. The IWC Annual Edition 20122013, featuring all the newest timepieces, declares that “2012 is a year for highflyers”. We quite agree, whether these ‘high flyers’ are soaring through the skies or racing over the waves. n For a catalogue call 0845 337 1868. IWC watches are available from David M Robinson, Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf; www.iwc.com
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In the month of the Olympics, go for gold, or, in silver, the next best thing
7 9 8 6 1 Superocean Heritage 42, POA, Breitling, www.breitling.com 2 Pink Gold Royal Oak, £45,420, Audemars Piguet, www.audemarspiguet.com 3 WW.TC Financial, POA, Girard-Perregaux www.girard-perregaux.com 4 Engraved rose gold-plated cufflinks, £110, Lanvin, www.mrporter.com 5 Fonderie 47 Transforming cufflinks cracelet, POA, Roland Iten, available at Harrods 6 Yellow gold Cosmograph Daytona, £23,200, Rolex, available at David M Robinson, Jubilee Place 7 Classique Grande Complication pocket-watch, POA, Audemars Piguet, as before 8 Curved Intrecciato cufflinks, £270, Bottega Veneta, www.bottegaveneta.com 9 Pen of the Year 2012, £3,400, Graf von Faber Castell, available at Harrods, The Pen Shop, William & Son and Selfridges 10 Sterling silver with hallmark detail money clip, £105, William & Son, www.williamandson.com 11 18-karat cord diamond pavé rose gold cufflinks, £2,250, Tateossian www.tateossian.com
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Swiss movement, English heart
Swiss made / 25 jewel customised automatic chronograph movement / 250-piece limited edition / Exhibition backplate / Premium-grade Louisiana alligator strap / Anti-reflective sapphire crystal / Diameter: 43mm / Calibre: ETA 7750.
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THE SIENNA COLLECTION Inspired by the Renaissance Masters, The Sienna Collection reincarnates the artist’s love of colour and creativity. The Sienna Cuff and The Sienna Chandelier drop earrings both feature a superb array of mandarin garnets, pink spinels and diamonds set in yellow gold. The Sienna Collection is truly inspired by a timeless period in European history which celebrated beauty through the adornment of majestic gems.
UNITED KINGDOM
AUSTRALIA
The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St, Mayfair London W1S 4SW
Sydney Gold Coast
calleija.com
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news Perfect Palladium Having recently been announced the International Palladium Board’s latest inspirational partner for 2012, jewellery designer Lara Bohinc launched two new ranges on 9 July: the Palladium Fine Jewellery Collection and the Palladium Collision Collection, both demonstrating the metal’s luxury appeal. The Fine Jewellery Collection features five distinct pieces, influenced by architectural structures, in which the palladium lends support to hundreds of diamonds and South Sea pearls. The Palladium Collision Collection includes a ring, pendant and studs, drawing inspiration from the tension of tectonic plates. “Palladium has empowered me to design a bold and luxurious collection”, comments Bohinc. “The lattice formation provides strength whilst allowing for the illumination of the pearls. I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of working with an unexplored and pioneering new metal, one that has broadened the potential for my future collections.”
Enchant, Tiffany Tiffany & Co. has never failed to enchant audiences with its coveted collection of precious stones and in honour of its 175th anniversary, the Tiffany Diamond was reset in a necklace of white diamonds. The jewellery powerhouse has followed its anniversary with the launch of a new collection which, entitled Enchant, features an exquisite array of white and coloured diamonds. Having looked to nature for inspiration, expect to see pink diamond butterflies and bright yellow diamond flowers. Based on symmetrical and ornate patterns of 19th century garden gates, the pendants, earrings and bangle which make up the collection outline the grandeur of formal gardens. Tiffany & Co., Cabot Place 020 7409 2790, www.tiffany.co.uk
The Palladium Collection is available from Harrods and Lara Bohinc’s store; www.palladiumboard.com
Roaring Twenties
Cutting Edge The Eleuterio 2012 collections are inspired by diverse cultures from around the world as well as jewels from antiquity, resulting in a range of fine jewellery designed to suit any occasion
In white gold with diamonds and South Sea pearls from Australia, the Celebration collection is full of romance and perfect for weddings or special anniversaries White gold ring, diamonds and Australian pearl, £4,850 White gold pendant, diamonds and Australian pearl, £4,470 020 748 22212, www.eleuteriojewels.com
The early 20th century saw accessorising taken to a new level. Gone were jewels discreetly worn around the neck and on wrists or fingers. Instead, jewellery said as much about a woman’s sense of style as her outfit: pearls cascaded down bare backs, earrings hung to shoulder-length and aigrettes (head-dresses) became popular. Influenced by those which once decorated the turbans of Ottoman sultans, aigrettes were sported by the most fashionable in the 20s. Chaumet honours this era with its Josephine collection. www.chaumet.com
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With many of the countries of the world about to partake in the most ancient of sporting events, we bring together international jewellery designers who have drawn inspiration from their heritage
1 Lychee pendant, £200, Catherine Zoraida, www.myflashtrash.com 2 Snake ear pavé earrings in 18-karat yellow gold with white diamonds and tsavorites, POA Ileana Makri, www.makri.gr 3 Diamond and Columbian faceted emerald choker, £68,000, www.binagoenka.com 4 Gold leaf bracelet, £250, Catherine Zoraida, as before 5 Snake medal necklace with gold vermeil chain and green topaz, £250, Assya London, www.assyalondon.com 6 Gaillardia Garden 18-karat rose gold, diamond and sapphire earrings, £7,670, Ileana Makri, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 7 Trillion diamond cut earrings with ruby in gold vermeil, £269, Lestie Lee www.myflashtrash.com 8 & 12 18-karat yellow gold and oxidised silver emerald, diamond and pearl drop earrings, and 18-karat yellow gold and emerald necklace with pearl drop Sold as set, £38,000, Amrapali, www.amrapalijewels.com 9 Ash leaf and aventurine earrings, £250, Catherine Zoraida, as before
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10 Dawn pendant in 18-karat yellow gold with champagne diamonds, white diamonds and blue diamonds, POA, Ileana Makri, www.makri.gr 11 18-carat yellow gold graduated necklace, £3,725, Africa by Marco Bicego, www.nigelmilne.co.uk 13 18-karat yellow gold and oxidised silver emerald and diamond drop Panna earrings, £54,500, Amrapali www.amrapalijewels.com 14 18-karat yellow gold and oxidised silver emerald and diamond Panna cuff, £28,000, Amrapali, as before 15 Fancy diamond shapes square ring in gold vermeil, £300, Lestie Lee, as before 16 Cat’s eye ring in 18-karat yellow gold with white diamonds, tsavorites and blue sapphires, POA, Ileana Makri, as before 17 18-carat yellow gold graduated earrings, £1,300, Africa by Marco Bicego, as before 18 18-carat yellow gold, pearl and diamond bangle, £1,000, Africa by Marco Bicego, as before 19 Dawn ring, POA, Ileana Makri, as before
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NEWS Canary Wharf Hits a Home Run with a New Fitness Scheme Canary Wharf workers will have an added incentive to run home this summer, thanks to the expansion of Home Run, an innovative new running scheme. Home Run is a series of free, guided runs from central London, with transport provided for runners’ bags. Thanks to sponsorship from Canary Wharf Group, working in partnership with Limelight Sports, Home Run has announced extra runs over the summer in addition to existing routes from Canary Wharf to London Bridge, Stratford and Waterloo. To sign up and check availability please visit www.homerunlondon.com. The Home Run expansion follows the recent launch of the Canary Wharf Triathlon Challenge, an online fitness programme encouraging people to run, cycle or swim during the summer. By registering at www.canarywharftrichallenge.co.uk participants will have the chance to win weekly prizes and receive tips from coaches and triathletes.
Squire and Partners win 2012 Canstruction® Competition Architectural firm Squire and Partners won London’s inaugural Canstruction® competition, which recently took place in Canary Wharf. Some of the world’s most eminent design and engineering firms competed against the clock and each other to build magnificent and imaginative sculptures constructed purely from tins of food, which will be distributed to vulnerable members of the community by food charity Fare Share. Squire and Partners won the Judges’ Favourite category with its sculpture titled ‘Food + Shelter’. The gazebo-style structure, created out of 2,580 full cans of food, used innovative wooden hand-cut inserts to create tension and stability throughout the structure without any damage to the cans.
Corporate Responsibility Report 2011
Corporate Responsibility Report Published Canary Wharf Group has published its latest annual Corporate Responsibility Report, which presents and measures the Group’s efforts at fostering economic, social and environmental regeneration, particularly in the local Tower Hamlets area. The latest report is available for download at www.canarywharf.com
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International Cuisine As the world descends upon London for the 2012 Olympic Games, immerse yourself in food from around the globe at Canary Wharf’s selection of international eateries
AMERICA
Whether it’s the northern continent’s famous beef burgers that whet your appetite, or the renowned steaks of the south, Canary Wharf has got American cuisine covered. Transport yourself to New York with a hotdog from The Gourmet Hotdog Company or feast on up-market burgers from Byron. Everything at Gourmet Burger Kitchen is about the burger. Visit Canary Wharf’s new-look GBK to create classic and innovative taste combinations.
CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA
Gaucho’s Argentinian steaks need no introduction; head to Canary Riverside for amazing river views, a large summer terrace and al fresco dining. For honest food, and to experience the pleasure of sharing, Wahaca brings the spirit of Mexican market eating to the UK. The restaurant features a charming roof top terrace bar serving delicious tequila cocktails. You can also grab a take-away to be enjoyed in Canada Square Park.
Wahaca, The Park Pavilion
FRANCE
Plateau Restaurant, Bar & Grill, located at the top of Canada Place, provides classically French and British options, attracting visitors from across the capital that come to sample the restaurant’s unique cuisine and dramatic night-time views. While evidently not French, Plateau’s Best of British Festival runs until the close of the Paralympic Games. Nicolas Wine Bar offers a selection of French dishes with 20 wines by the glass to wash them down, while it’s retail area stocks more than 300 wines. Newly opened Le Relais de Venise L’Entrecôte promises a unique dining experience with its simple menu and no reservations policy. Quote the word ‘steak’ until the end of August to receive 20 per cent off your total bill.
The Parlour, The Park Pavilion
ITALY
Obikà Mozzarella Bar centres its offering around quality Mozzarella di Bufala Campana served alongside carefully sourced, Italian artisan products, while Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian’s summer menu showcases the best “bang in season” ingredients. For an informal breakfast, Carluccio’s provides the perfect setting to explore an authentic Italian menu over a reinvigorating espresso. For wholesome pizza Wildwood and Pizza Express won’t disappoint. Jamie’s Italian, Carluccio’s, Wildwood and Pizza Express are family friendly restaurants and each boasts its own children’s menu.
Jamie’s Italian, Churchill Place
SHOPPING FUSION
For the best of both worlds, choose fusion. Rocket Canary Wharf is a fun and lively restaurant serving everything from fresh salads to 13” stone-baked wood-fired pizzas. Located in The Park Pavilion, The Parlour is a striking and innovative all-day bar and kitchen; a stylish interior sits alongside imaginative food and wine that highlight seasonal ingredients. Both restaurants boast imaginative cocktail menus. ROKA, The Park Pavilion
JAPAN
ROKA’s principle cuisine is from the Robata grill, originating from the fishermen of Northern Japan. The restaurant’s sumptuous decor comprises various textures and shades of natural wood, while jars of distilled Japanese spirit decorate the surrounding bar. Situated on the mezzanine level of Jubilee Place, Wagamama is modelled on the ramen bars which have been popular in Japan for years. Cooked immediately after they are ordered, all dishes arrive fresh, filling and full of flavour. Over at Itsu the mantra is health and happiness; health because it’s light and nutritious; happiness because its sushi boxes are the freshest around.
FOOD FROM FURTHER AFIELD
If you’re on the go, Kanapina serves up warm roti rolls packed with authentically marinated grilled meats and tantalising chatni, or, for a healthy and unique range of organic dishes to take away, Organic Chickpeas has become famous for its falafel chickpea balls. Alternatively, Sri Nam serves dishes influenced by Thai, Malaysian, Chinese and Singaporean foods.
SPAIN
Iberica Canary Wharf’s two Michelin-starred Executive Chef has been titillating the taste buds of Canary Wharf visitors since it opened at the start of the year. If you’re scouring Canary Wharf for a contemporary and energetic environment in which to enjoy fine food with friends, then the restaurant’s unique take on tapas classics will be hard to beat. Iberica is also now hosting Iberica Kid’s Club each Sunday. Children get to enjoy free Spanish lessons and play in partnership with Ole Kids.
UNITED KINGDOM
Canteen’s menu is a lip-smacking assortment of British classics. Fish and chips, lancashire hotpot, and sausage and mash are all accounted for, as are bread pudding and rhubarb trifle. Over in Cabot place, scotish-inspired Boisdale of Canary Wharf houses one of the greatest whisky bars on the planet as well as an impressively stocked wine cellar and humidor, and is open on sundays during the olympic period. With Jools Holland as its patron of music, the restaurant on the second floor is the spiritual home to Boisdale jazz, blues and soul. To experience the restaurant’s new oyster Bar and Grill menu, remain downstairs.
Iberica Canary Wharf, Cabot Square
Boisdale of Canary Wharf, Cabot Place
In addition to over 200 shops, cafes, bars and restaurants at weekends and on Bank Holidays you can enjoy 3 hours’ free parking in any of the public car parks when you spend £10 at any shop, café, bar or restaurant in Canary Wharf. For a full list of Cafes, Bars and restaurants check www.canarywharf.com. canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
events
whatever the weather SWAY TO JAZZ, SETTLE DOWN TO A GOOD FILM OR SAMPLE THE BEST OF INTERNATIONAL GASTRONOMY IN CANARY WHARF THIS SUMMER
Canary Wharf Jazz Festival The widely respected Canary Wharf Jazz Festival returns with live jazz in one beautiful setting across three days. This year’s festival features worldclass artists, rising stars and jazz and soul heavyweights from all over the globe. Committed to presenting a diverse and free programme, the festival returns with an explosive headliner as British jazz legend Courtney Pine takes to the stage in Canada Square Park on the Saturday evening. The UK’s premier saxophonist performs his extraordinary showcase drawing on over 20 years of jazz innovation and his British-Jamaican roots. Bring a picnic, grab a picnic mat and enjoy all that jazz.
Canary Wharf Summer Screen Throughout the summer, Canary Wharf will bring some of the most exciting sporting events to the big screens in Canada Square Park making a perfect setting for a picnic in the sunshine or an alfresco drink at one of the Park Pavilion bars or restaurants. Until Friday 9 September Daily Canada Square Park FREE
Friday 17 August 7-8pm 8.30-10pm
Lokkhi Terra James Morton Soul Collective with special guests Mary Pearce and Snowboy
Saturday 18 August 1.30-2.45pm 3.15-4.30pm 5-6.15pm 6.45-8pm 8.30-10pm
Josh Arcoleo Quartet Bansangu Orchestra Dennis Rollins Velocity Alexander Stewart Courtney Pine
Sunday 19 August 1.30-2.45pm 3.15-4.30pm 5-6.15pm 6.45-8.15pm
Davide Mantovani Sextet Voices of Nature The Soul Reformers Beats & Pieces
Twilight Delights: The BBC Big Band and Claire Martin celebrate The Big Band Divas Multi award-winning jazz vocalist, Claire Martin OBE, joins the internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band for a celebration of the legendary leading ladies of the big band era including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, Peggy Lee and their contemporaries at Canada Square Park. Tuesday 14 August 7pm Canada Square Park FREE
Twilight Delights:
Outdoor Cinema:
Blame it on the Boogie
The Cutting Edge (PG)
Celebrate the undisputed King of Pop – Michael Jackson as we explore his career from his early days as part of the world famous Jackson 5 to his solo smash hits. Join us for an incredibly energetic concert for our finale in our Twilight Delight series at Canada Square Park.
Outdoor cinema continues at Canary Wharf with its sporting theme as we bring films to the big screen for all the family to enjoy. A rich and refined pairs figure skater whose prima donna attitude has her skating solo. A brash, blue-collar hockey champion with a knee injury and no future. With nothing in common but their dream of reaching the Olympics, they reluctantly join forces to skate towards the opportunity of a lifetime. 1992 Dir Paul Michael Glaser 97mins
Wednesday 22 August 7pm Canada Square Park FREE
Tuesday 28 August 7pm Canada Square Park FREE
The Lunch Market Now settled in its new home and offering a vast array of delicious food from around the world The Lunch Market at Wood Wharf invites you to explore new parts of Canary Wharf as well as new global flavours to spice up your lunchtime. Choose your own alfresco feast from more than 20 stalls offering authentic cuisine prepared by local producers and some of Canary Wharf’s own restaurateurs. Look out for traditional paella, hand-carved jamon, spicy chorizo, juicy burgers and tasty fudge and other exotic fare. Head to Montgomery Square on Bank Street and follow the signs to your alfresco lunch. Tuesday 28 August 11am-3pm Wood Wharf
Space at outdoor events is unreserved and sometimes limited. Portable furniture, glass bottles or glasses are not permitted in Canada Square Park canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
art We Are Time: Past and Future Works by Edward Allington Wit and irony are as central to Edward Allington’s sculptures as classical themes and motifs, which he employs in new and curious contexts such as time, history and the sense of an evolving world. The diversity found in his sculpture is paramount. His interest in the classical world of Greece and Rome shines through in references to ancient artifacts and architectural details in his work. edwardallington.net
Window Galleries The Art, Design & Lightbox Window Galleries, located in Canada Place Shopping Mall, showcase up-and-coming artists, designers and craftspeople. This month the galleries display:
Until 14 September Lobby, One Canada Square FREE
Frieze Projects East: Sarnath Banerjee Sarnath Banerjee’s graphic narratives about sporting near-misses are presented across posters, billboards, local newspapers, hoardings and BBC Live Sites throughout the Olympic Host Boroughs, a Gallery of Losers (Non-Performers, Almost-Winners, Under-Achievers, Almost-Made-Its). Frieze Projects East is a series of 6 artists’ works specially commissioned for the London 2012 Festival and CREATE, curated by Frieze Foundation. Sarnath is an Indian artist based in New Delhi and Berlin. Anecdotal and autobiographical in nature, his stories are imbued with humour and immediacy.
Katherine Seaman
Katherine’s most recent work was created for her graduate collection, ‘Foreshore.’ She used her interest in archaeology and gathered artefacts from along the foreshore of the River Thames. Since then, Katherine has developed a more commercial collection. katherineseaman.com
Friezeprojectseast.org Until 31 August Lobby, One Canada Square hoarding and Canada Square Park Summer Screen FREE
Gifts from the Gods Part of the Mayor of London’s Look and Celebration programme and in recognition of the Games’ ancient Greek heritage, a giant replica javelin will be placed in Jubilee Park this summer. Jubilee Park Until 9 September Free
Teresa Witz presents Sporting Champions Nine life-size portraits of some of Great Britain’s most inspiring and determined sporting champions by East London artist Teresa Witz will be on display for the first time in a specially commissioned outdoor installation throughout Jubilee Park. In addition to this outdoor exhibition, head and shoulder portraits will be on display in the Canada Walk Window Gallery. The athletes portrayed in Jubilee Park are Victoria Barr, Ashley Bryant, Mark Hunter, Frankie Jones, Jeanette Kwakye, Vanessa Raw, Perri Shakes-Drayton, Jess Sylvester and David Weir. Until 9 September Jubilee Park FREE
For more information visit canarywharf.com
Teresa Witz
In addition to the outdoor exhibition in Jubilee Park, Teresa’s head and shoulder portraits of more sporting champions are displayed, including Tom Daley, Mark Foster, Lee Pearson and Zac Purchase. teresawitz.co.uk
Felicia Strehmel
A passionate amateur photographer and Berliner, Felicia Strehmel uses image manipulation, furniture restoration and handmade photographic slides to create light-boxes with hidden depths. lillyslightboxcompany.com
canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
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QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LEATHER GOODS SINCE 1934
The Bullion Collection www.ettinger.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)20 8877 1616
Ettinger Bullion Ad Mayfair Jan12 297x210.indd 2
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jo malone means business
The quintessentially British Jo Malone London now holds corporate events as well as selling the world’s best smelling candles
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t’s hard enough choosing a gift for your nearest and dearest. So when it comes to purchasing a present for a valued client or business contact, it’s often impossible to know where to start. Make the right sort of statement with a gift from Jo Malone London. Its Corporate Service offers dedicated and personalised assistance, paying attention to every detail of your purchasing requirements. With a plethora of bespoke and luxurious corporate gifts, each is complimentarily wrapped and beautifully presented in the iconic cream and black livery,
including a personalised message-card and door to desk delivery. The Jo Malone™ Corporate Service also organises elegant company events, ideal for thanking valued clients, rewarding employees, strengthening team spirit or building new business bridges. Polished yet professional, they handle everything from the venue, champagne and canapés to the indulgent pampering treats. n Call the Corporate Team on 0870 950 2650 or email jmcorporatesales@jomalone.com Jo Malone London, Jubilee Place
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Makers of the finest English shoes since 1879
U.K. 25 Royal Exchange, London EC3 New Shop - 92 Jermyn Street, London SW1 69 Jermyn Street, London SW1 20-21 Burlington Arcade, London W1 25 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3
FRANCE 14, Rue Chauveau-Lagarde, La Madeleine, 75008 Paris U.S.A. 7 West 56th Street, New York, NY 10019 www.crockettandjones.com
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men’s fashion
news Bosideng to Britain
High Summer While we’re not entirely sure how well tailored GANT Rugger’s High Summer 2012 collection is to the whole game-set-and-match thing, there’s no denying the on-trend Nouveau Prep nature of the tennis-inspired range. More suited to social gatherings rather than breaking a sweat, the collection comprises fitted blazers, tailored
and casual shorts, knitted sweaters, madras and Oxford shirts, and, of course, that mandatory tennis-look piece: piques. Main colours are creams, blues and shades of red and grey, in solids or classic sporty stripes and checks. Think sportswear, but without the sport. Gant, Cabot Place, www.gantuk.com
Athletically Vintage The last time the Olympic Games were held in London, Team USA took home more medals than any other country. 64 years on and Ralph Lauren pays homage to the achievement with its 2012 Olympic Collection, presenting a mix of authentic reproductions, vintage motifs and modern sporting silhouettes in the iconic colour palette of red, white and navy. The collection features reissued heritage pieces from the 30s and 40s, including fleece warm-ups, a cricket-collar shirt and sweatshirts with felt USA appliqués. Look out for the likes of USA gold medal hopefuls Bryan Clay and Jonathan Horton sporting the collection during the Games.
Bosideng, Asia’s largest downfeather clothing company, opened its first overseas flagship store in Molton Street last month. The premium menswear brand’s European range has evolved following collaboration with designers Nick Holland, Ash Gangotra and Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher. “We are expanding to establish Bosideng’s international brand presence,” explains Bosideng founder and Chairman, Mr Gao Dekang. “We have chosen to launch in London, one of Europe’s most influential fashion hotspots.” Expect Bosideng’s high-end Vetallo collection to find favour amongst London’s affluent population. www.bosideng.com
From Russia with Love It’s Russia’s answer to Ralph Lauren and yet it remains pretty much unknown within the UK. Though that’s likely to change when Bosco di Ciliegi opens a Bosco Sport store in central London. Official apparel provider of the Russian Olympic team since 2002, Bosco also manages restaurants, spas and health centres. “We are well-known in our own market, but to be present in a different part of the world, we need to take a step like London,” said Mikhail Kusnirovich, who founded the chain in 1991. www.boscosport.ru
www.ralphlauren.co.uk
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Elegant Unique Exclusive
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Picture: Charley Smith
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Telephone 01242 609489 www.sudeleycastle.co.uk Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe, the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire GL54 5JD
fashion
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women’s fashion
news MOST WANTED: INVEST IN GOLD
TED BAKER DRESSES
Taking a sneak peak at Aspinal of London’s glittering autumn accessories, these beautiful gold handbags certainly caught our eye. Opt for the Exotic Pyramid Box Clutch (bottom left) created from tactile python print leather, the more practical Barbarella (top left), handmade from the finest soft and supple metallic Italian calf leather; or the Manhattan Clutch (above). After all, gold’s the only colour to be sporting this summer.
Coming up trumps in the formal fashion stakes this season, Ted Baker has enough function dresses to have you partying every night of the week. Just two of our summer favourites, these white and gold numbers are chic and simple with just a hint of embellishment. The shorter Kace dress is perfect for garden parties, cocktails or seasonal soirées while the long flowing Eltti can be worn with gold gladiator sandals for a romantic beach dinner or delicate heels for any black-tie party.
FROM BOTTOM: £575, £450, £695 Aspinal of London, Cabot Place
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world. Marilyn Monroe
MUST-HAVE ITEM: REISS SHOES
newsflash
If you haven’t already invested in a pair of Reiss shoes this summer (or even if you have) these stunning white snakeskin and gold heels are elegant, classy and fun. A great neutral tone with a hint of bling, they are ideal for pairing with this season’s floral print dresses, pastel-hued trousers or smart short suits. While June through August looks set to be a wash-out, get prepped for an Indian summer come September and October, and bag these beauties before they sell out. Now £118, while stocks last Reiss Womenswear, Cabot Place Reiss, Jubilee Place
From a Gucci LBD to a floor length Valentino, most women would relish the chance to wear a different designer dress to each and every special occasion. Just pay a visit to www.girlmeetsdress.com and you could hire the most coveted ensembles of the season at a fraction of their retail price. With more than 3,500 beautiful pieces, your dream dress could be delivered to your home or office just in time for the party. They even sort out the dry cleaning.
ELTTI, now £125, KACE, £169 Ted Baker, Canada Place
TREND: TRANSITIONAL TROUSERS One moment it’s sunny, the next it’s raining. Has it ever been harder to get dressed in the mornings? These fabulous gold transitional trousers from Malene Birger can be teamed with pumps, sandals, heels or ankle boots; a long sleeved blouse or white strappy vest; a cropped leather jacket or big shades. Sure to be a wardrobe staple next season, snap them up now, and watch closely as the rest of the line trickles in. £225, www.my-wardrobe.com
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Urban
Sport Photographer:
Peter Zownir Fashion Editor:
Lucie Dodds
Black leather bandeau, £855, and black leather leggings, £1,590, both Jitrois www.jitrois.com Black suede Crosby wedge, £663 Alejandro Ingelmo at Dover Street Market Silver circles cuffs, £195, Kenneth Jay Lane at Merola, 020 7351 9338
Black mesh racer back dress, ÂŁ235 T by Alexander Wang at Harvey Nichols
Black halterneck body £22, American Apparel www.americanapparel.net Silver circles necklace, £220 Kenneth Jay Lane at Merola as before Black belted jacket, £1,053 David Koma at Dover Street Market Black suede and patent platform ankle boots, £770, Gina Couture
White mesh leather dress, ÂŁ1,012 White leather belt, ÂŁ1,220 White and black shoes, POA All David Koma at Dover Street Market
Print jersey vest & brief, POA Print stretch jacket, ÂŁ765 All Aminaka Wilmont, www.netaporter.com
Hair & Make-Up: Make-up: Katie Pettigrew at Tiger Creative using MAC Cosmetics Hair: Darren Hau at Naked using Bumble & Bumble
health & beauty
health & beauty
Get The Look: English Rose
Featureflash / Shutterstock.com
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concierge
Achieve a flawless, glowing complexion like the pink-cheeked English rose Emma Watson. Keep the skin soft and supple by moisturising daily with just a hint of flirty floral fragrance. 1
DON’T IGNORE THE NIGGLE More often than not, we ignore niggling aches and pains for months, if not years, when we could be preventing myriad problems in later years. Paying a visit to Freedom Clinics for a free routine consultation to find out more about the osteopathic and chiropractic treatments available − as well as many other disciplines − we got a rude awakening
about the damage we’re doing sitting slumped at a desk all day. Having been fully clicked and crunched by osteopath Jason Patel, and shown the right stretches and exercises, we’ll be going back for a follow up appointment pronto.
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Freedom Clinics, 34 North Colonnade 020 3197 9100
TREATMENT OF THE MONTH: PURE SPORTS MEDICINE If all the summer sporting excitement has made you a little more active than usual − and you’re feeling a bit worse for wear − then Pure Sports Medicine will set you right again. A unique sports injury practice, it’s dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of sports injuries and musculoskeletal problems. Boasting a team of specialists who have worked with national squads, as well as consulting to numerous premiership football and rugby clubs (the England rugby team doctor is the medical director), you are in safe hands. However, they can’t promise to perfect your backflip.
1. Evelyn Rose Solid Perfume, £30 2. Evelyn Rose Hand Therapy, £14 3. Evelyn Rose Body Lotion and Evelyn Rose Bath and Shower Gel, £18 and £16 All part of the Evelyn Rose range,
Pure Sports Medicine, Cabot Place
available at Crabtree & Evelyn,
020 7512 9971
Cabot Place
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Professional Maid Service for your Home
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interiors
concierge
interiors
news LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU If you plan to host plenty of Olympic screening parties this summer, all you need, as well as a big TV and a patriotically appropriate doormat, is enough kitchen space to cook up a storm for all those hungry guests. Designed by Charlie Smallbone, Fired Earth’s Bastide range blends the charm of a French country kitchen and the practicality of a more modern model, appealing to tastes both vintage and contemporary. With more than 350 different cabinet options, Bastide works well in big parlours and smaller urban units. Choose from a range of dressers and larders as well as stone worktops and mesh door options, all of which add to the chic, rustic feel.
MAKE A TOAST If you hadn’t already guessed, we’re feeling pretty optimistic about the Games this summer, and are preparing for a triumphant few weeks of spontaneous get-togethers. These gorgeous champagne-cork style salt and pepper pots say ‘here’s a toast’ with your morning scrambled eggs when there’s no Cristal on hand. Not that we’d judge… £30, WWW.GRAHAMANDGREEN.CO.UK
LASTING MEMORIES Create your own memory storybooks with friends and family and display them in your front room for all to see. Mix and match on your mantelpiece with different textured frames, in tan leather and white-washed wood, or stick to classic silver for a timeless look. FROM £50, THE WHITE COMPANY CABOT PLACE
POA, WWW.FIREDEARTH.COM
I’LL DRINK TO THAT Presuming there’ll be plenty to celebrate this month, stock up on Ralph Lauren Home’s silver barware kit to ensure every tipple choice is covered. From wine to cocktails, this super chic collection will turn your front room into the hottest new bar in town. Purchase separately, or as one big merry set, and be sure to stock up on umbrellas and the latest mixology know-how. Montgomery wine cooler, £295 Montgomery cocktail shaker, £130 Celeste martini glass, £115 Celeste nut bowl, £115 ALL RALPH LAUREN HOME WWW.RALPHLAUREN.CO.UK
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the trend Relax and unwind whilst dreaming of sun-kissed shores and sand between your toes
Desert Modern Dining Table, £15,400 Desert Modern Dining Chairs, each from £2,500 Ralph Lauren Home, www.ralphlaurenhome.com
Missoni Home Jocker Throw £240, Heal’s, www.heals.co.uk
Vase Manon, from £35 Katharine Pooley www.katharinepooley.com
interiors
concierge comment
York 3.5m Side Post Parasol £475, Burford Garden Company, www.burford.co.uk
Gordon 4 Person Picnic Hamper £250, Fortnum & Mason www.fortnumandmason.com
English Country Garden Bench £1,425, Burford Garden Company, www.burford.co.uk
Pennini, Sardine and Scimmie Large Scented Candles, £380 Fornasetti Profumi www.united-perfumes.com
Travel Secrets by Tanya Rose, £25, Mason Rose www.gift-library.net
Cuba Day Bed £2,350, Indian Ocean www.indian-ocean.co.uk
Brass Bowls, from £49 Louise Bradley www.louisebradley.co.uk Raymond Blanc 5 Burner Gas Barbecue £1,199, John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com
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Duravit brings the bathroom to life.
Sanitaryware, bathroom furniture, bathtubs, shower trays, wellness products and accessories: Duravit has everything you need to make life in the bathroom a little more beautiful. More info at Duravit UK, Milton Keynes, Phone 0845 500 7787, Fax 0845 500 7786, info@uk.duravit.com, www.duravit.co.uk
interview sir matthew pinsent motoring porsche boxster event salon prive .........
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The Gift of Flight
S If you thought the pinnacle of virtual reality existed only in the form of your PlayStation, then think again
o realistic are British Airways’ flight simulators that once a newly qualified pilot has passed their test in one, the next thing they’ll fly is a fully-boarded commercial aircraft. Not only can the £10 million machines mimic weather conditions, events and real world scenarios, they can also be programmed to simulate taking off and landing at any airport BA flies to. Three angled projectors create a 180 degree computer-generated image while a hydraulic motion system replicates turbulence. Once reserved for the exclusive training of professional pilots,
British Airways is now offering members of the public the chance to take to the virtual skies on a Boeing Jumbo Jet simulator for themselves. After a pre-flight briefing and introduction to the flight deck instruments, you are guided from takeoff to touchdown by a qualified British Airways pilot. Entering the flight simulator may be the closest you’ll get to the cockpit of a jet at altitude: your Xbox will never look the same again. n Sessions in a Boeing simulator start from £399. Bookings made by 30 November 2012 will receive a 15 per cent discount; www.ebaft.com
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I am
Legend
Olympic icon and 14-time gold medallist Sir Matthew Pinsent speaks to Kari Rosenberg about pre-Games excitement, career highs and lows and why he’s happy not to be rowing this time around
interview
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n one of the most definitive sporting moments of all time, Sir Matthew Pinsent led the Great Britain Coxless Four to victory at the Athens Olympic Games in 2004. Just eight one 100ths of a second ahead of the Canadian Champions, the win secured Pinsent’s place in Olympic history forever. Clocking up ten world championship gold medals and four consecutive Olympic gold medals, Pinsent is without a doubt a national sporting treasure. While he won’t be taking part in this year’s Games – having retired eight years ago – he will be broadcasting for a number of the events. And he can’t quite contain his excitement. How do you feel about the arrival of the Games? I’ve been ridiculously excited for quite a few years now. A successful Team GB will just be so fantastic. Obviously the rowing will be the focus of my attention but I am excited to see a whole range of sports doing well. It’s amazing to see something I’m so passionate about come to the UK. Do you wish you were competing instead of commentating? I finished my rowing career eight years ago so it’s not as if I missed the Games coming to London by four years. If I’d had to do one more Games to get to London then I might have thought about it. But I’ve been too long retired. How do you think it will compare with past Games? Well that depends which Games you’re talking about. It’s going to be a special Games for us and we should expect a huge amount of excitement nationwide. We’ve got to try and convert that excitement into active sport and support not just the Brits, but everyone who is competing. Which medal-winning moments or races stand out most in your memory? It’s so hard for me to choose. Each win has its own place in my memory, whether it’s the first one or the last one, or one won at an event where we defended our title. Each medal has its own reason for being special. It would definitely be one of the Olympic wins, but I can’t choose.
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I still go rowing with Steve a bit but he’s always good value. The boat was heavy but it was great: 16 tonnes of boat was pretty hard to shift – it wasn’t exactly a rowing hull. It was great to be a part of an event where a million people turned out to watch. It was fantastic to be at the centre of something so central to our big sporting summer. What’s the biggest career risk you’ve ever taken? I don’t know. I suppose I committed an awful lot leaving university for a career in rowing. That probably wasn’t very sensible but I’m glad I did it now. But going back would I ever do anything differently? No way. Not at all. Definitely not! It’s pretty hard for me to have regrets. Let’s be honest – there’s no sacrifice that I made when I was younger that I now don’t look back on and think it was worth it. How does being a broadcaster compare with being a sportsman? I’m relieved to not be under so much pressure. It was pretty stressful, and to look forward to a summer where you’re not pinning everything on one six minute race is a nice change. It’s different – the highs aren’t as high and the lows are lower. It’s a very different experience. But in the run up to the home Games it’s great to be working in London, getting ready to host such a huge event. What do you like most about living in London? It’s one of the world’s truly global cities and it has an amazing buzz. Do you have any career goals not yet fulfilled? Not that I’ll tell you! I’m very happy having goals, but they’re quiet goals. I’ve had some very public goals in my time and I’m happy now to have some private ones. n Sir Matthew Pinsent is supporting Nestlé’s Get Set, Go Free campaign, which gives families the opportunity to try more than 25 activities for free this summer by collecting points on a range of Nestlé products. To find out more visit www.getsetgofree.co.uk
Did winning ever become almost expected or was it a shock every time? It was never a shock. We trained for four years to win the first gold medal. It’s more of a relief to win gold a lot of the time. There’s such exhaustion and effort going into training followed by such elation after winning, but also the relief that you converted that potential of being a favourite into becoming a champion. Were there any career low-points? Steve [Redgrave] had been quite ill at different points and obviously if I am rowing in a two man boat with another guy and he’s unwell then it’s quite difficult. That happened in the run up to the Barcelona Olympics. Steve was diagnosed as diabetic while we were training for the Sydney Olympics and we definitely had our challenges. Fortunately, I was always the relatively fit one, but I think the lowest moments were whenever there was an injury in the group. How was it being reunited with Sir Steve Redgrave to power the royal row-barge during the Diamond Jubilee pageant?
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Sky-high Driving Lessons If you’ve ever fancied sky diving but had the nerves get the better of you, or you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for your next thrill, let us point you in the direction of paramotoring. Combining the freedom of a paragliding chute with the power of a motor, paramotoring allows you to reach speeds of up to 47mph while under perfect control of the flight path you want to take. SkySchool, Europe’s leading Paramotor School, provides a wide range of exhilarating courses, from one day tester experiences to 12 day instructor courses throughout the UK, Spain and France. Other adventurous activities available include paragliding, sky-diving and off road motorbiking. www.skyschooluk.com
Up at The O2 It’s already the world’s most successful music and entertainment venue and now the The O2 has added a new attraction to its entertainment offerings. ‘Up at The O2’ takes visitors on a 90 minute guided expedition across the roof of The O2 via a tensile fabric walkway suspended 53 metres above the ground. An observation platform at the summit will enable climbers to take in spectacular 360˚ views of the capital and its iconic landmarks. The experience begins at Base Camp, a fully immersive briefing area inspired by the world’s best climbs and the rich history of The O2. There, visitors will be kitted up in bespoke climb suits and shoes before embarking on their climb. Tickets cost £22 for adults and children and priority tickets are available to O2’s current customers. www.theo2.co.uk/upattheo2
Military Precision
Following the Munich launch of the S6 and S7, Majorca’s Tramuntana Mountains formed the test track for the introduction of Audi’s new A3 last month. The landscape’s steep and snaking roads were a good test for a car that promotes itself as a “decidedly sporty character.” Lighter, more muscular-looking and with a more technically advanced drivetrain than its predecessor, the A3 was impressively stable, sticking to the roads well and cornering sharply. Choose the 2.0 TDI model and you’ll get from zero to 62 mph in less than nine seconds. You’ll use less fuel doing so, too, with fuel economy being improved by an average of 12 per cent across the model range. Easily the most luxurious car amongst its competitors, prices for the new A3 start at £17,500.
We’re not sure what British lifestyle brand RULE were expecting when they asked a team of ex-Royal Marine Commandos to design them a bicycle. Whatever it was, they can’t have been disappointed with the result. The RULE Supreme Style bike looks like it has been built by a group of seasoned design graduates rather than men more familiar with bombs. Contemporising classic designs, the elegant bikes are hand built in Devon and are available in a huge array of variations. A limited edition range of 50 PPQ Style bikes (at £1,500+) are available.
docklands audi, 64 Marsh Wall, E14 9SL, 020 7536 0555
www.rulebikes.com
Compact Luxury
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FIRE
LIGHT MY
The new Porsche Boxster is a remarkable machine, says Matthew Carter. And some of that’s down to the doors
motoring
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orsche is in rude health. How can you tell? Soaring sales of the Cayenne? Waiting lists for the new 911? Yes to both. But the real clincher is that the new Boxster finally has its own doors. Porsche wasn’t exactly shouting about it at the time, but the original Boxster was a make or break car. It came about after the German company turned to Toyota to learn about lean manufacturing methods — how to produce a car on the cheap, in other words. And in the mid-1990s, the entry-level Boxster arrived. Following Toyota’s recommendations the car used so many bits from the Porsche parts-bin it should have been called ‘Bitsa’, not Boxster. The entire front end was from the 911 while the engine was a smaller and less powerful version of the flat-six that powered the venerable sports car. And the doors? One of the most expensive pieces of bodywork on any car? They were also lifted straight from the 911. But the Boxster did the trick. It rescued Porsche from the brink and helped the company generate the money to produce the Cayenne SUV, the car that’s now the biggest selling Porsche of them all. Proving that times are good again is the third generation Boxster. And this time it’s a genuinely all-new car rather than a face-lift, like the second generation car. The new car is longer, wider and lower than before. Best of all, thanks to extensive use of aluminium plus a touch of magnesium in the body shell, it’s lighter too. It’s also up to 40 per cent stiffer than before (not that the old car ever suffered from the shakes, despite the lack of a rigid roof). While the styling still shares much design DNA with the 911, the new Boxster finally gets its own doors, gorgeous tapering things with swage lines and shaped to scoop air into vents for the mid-mounted engine. At 315hp, there’s a touch more power from the Boxster S’s 3.4-litre flat-six engine (the 2.7-litre engine in the ‘ordinary’ Boxster enjoys a 10hp rise to 265hp) and performance has risen to the point where the ‘S’ has lapped the Nürburgring in exactly the same time as a stripped out 911 GT3. As well as a longer wheelbase and wider track for a larger footprint on the road, chassis changes include an all-new
front suspension, though the rear set up is derived from that in the old car. Again, not too much of a hardship, and the old Boxster handled it pretty well. The overall picture is completed by a beautifully crafted new interior, several notches above the outgoing machine’s. So it’s better on paper. And it’s better on road, too. The beauty of the Boxster – any Porsche really – is that it is useable day-in, day-out. When driven in anger, the performance is stunning, as the 173 mph top speed and sub-5.1 seconds sprint to 60mph show. To enhance the feeling, the engine has a ‘sport’ button as standard, which sharpens throttle action and, if fitted, the responses from the PDK dual clutch semi-automatic
gearbox. But while the paddle shifts are among the best in the business, the PDK ‘box is an expensive option and one that’s really not needed given the quality of the six-speed manual shift. As an aside, that’s not the case in the 911, where it’s too easy to select the wrong ratio in the tightly packed sevenspeed manual ‘box. Here, PDK is the way to go. Show the Boxster a twisty road and it’s in its element as it sweeps through the curves. There’s no body roll, no fuss and no drama: the car feels glued to the road and gives plenty of feedback through the steering and the seat of the pants. If the mood or road conditions demand more circumspect progress, however, the flexibility of the engine means it can be driven at a snail’s pace with no histrionics. Nor is it thirsty: Porsche claiming 32.1mpg on the combined cycle. It really is an incredible piece of
calibre
engineering. As is the hood: electrically operated, it can be raised or lowered in seconds. Folded, it sits snugly in its own compartment behind the seats – it doesn’t encroach on luggage space – while when raised it’s as snug as a proper tin-top would be. In fact, I’d go far as to say the latest generation Boxster is damn near perfect. There are only two flies in the ointment for me. The first is that it’s not quite the bargain it might initially appear. With partial leather trim, 19-inch alloys, bixenon lights, a seven-inch touch screen and breath-taking performance, the list price of £45,384 might seem reasonable. But once it’s got you hooked, Porsche brings out the cosh and starts adding on the extras. For example, a wind deflector which slots between the front seats and reduces buffeting when the hood is down, costs £182 extra. According to its own figures, 94 per cent of buyers opt for the deflector, which proves it really ought to be standard. You want heated seats (88 per cent do)? That’ll be £283. Sports seats, perhaps? More than £2,200. Amazingly, though, if you want a fabric roof in blue, red or brown rather than traditional black, that’s a no-cost option… you’re missing a trick there, Porsche. Thing is, they’ll know you’ll pay. Budget, say, £50k for the car and a few desirable extras and you’ll have the best sporting soft top on the market. Better even than a convertible 911, in my view. But despite its brilliance, I might not buy a new Boxster. I’d save my money for the next generation Porsche Cayman, the coupé version of the Boxster: just as good to drive and a little more practical to own. And I wouldn’t need to spend an extra hundred and eighty quid on a wind deflector, either. n
IN BRIEF Car: Porsche Boxster S Price: £45,384 Engine: 3,436cc, flat-six, mid-mounted Power: 315 hp Drive: Rear-wheel drive, six-speed manual Performance: 173 mph max, 0-62 mph in 5.1secs
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calibre motoring
McLaren Spider
THE BEST OF
Matthew Carter tests the strength of McLaren’s Spider and Aston Martin’s Vanquish
BRITISH BRAWN
Aston Martin Vanquish
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ecession: draconian motoring restrictions; appalling summer weather; not the time to launch a new, hugely powerful and expensive convertible, perhaps. Try telling that to McLaren. The British company has just revealed the MP4-12C Spider, an open-topped version of its Ferrari-baiting coupé. With a top speed of 196mph and a price that adds three noughts to that figure, the Spider is driven by the same 625hp 3.8-litre V8 that powers the coupé. Even though the two-piece retractable hardtop adds 40kg to its all-up weight, performance remains exceptional. It will match the coupé from rest to 62mph (3.1 seconds) and is only 0.2 seconds slower to 124mph (9.0 secs vs. 8.8 seconds). Thanks to the inherent strength of the carbon fibre chassis, no extra strengthening has been needed to turn the MP4-12C into the Spider, while rollover protection is built into the buttresses behind the seats. McLaren has even designed the roof so that when lowered it still
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allows that engine to be viewed through its glass cover. Over at Aston Martin, meanwhile, the Vanquish name has been revived for the company’s new flagship model. Like the McLaren, the new Vanquish makes extensive use of lightweight carbonfibre and like the McLaren it won’t give you much change from £200,000. Powered by the latest version of the company’s formidable 6.0-litre V12 engine developing a hefty 565hp, its styling shows new design trends at the same time as retaining traditional cues such as the grille and powerful rear haunches. Or to put it another way, here’s an Aston that doesn’t look exactly like all the other models in the range. Although sitting on the same length wheelbase as the DB9 – and the DBS it replaces – the new Vanquish is a little longer, taller and wider. The boot is much larger and the cabin roomier, too. The Aston goes on sale next year, while the first McLaren Spiders will be delivered to new owners just before Christmas. n
A PAIR OF VIP TICKETS TO ENJOY V FESTIVAL 2012 IN STYLE
Courtesy of our friends at V Festival, sponsored by Virgin Media, we are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of V Style camping tickets for V Festival 2012 at Hylands Park, Chelmsford on 18 and 19 August. V Style returns to V for its second year this August, giving festival-goers the opportunity to enjoy a luxury camping experience while they dance the weekend away. The winner and a guest will gain VIP access to this year’s V Festival, stay in a lavish V Style Unidome, benefit from a valet trolley service upon arrival on-site and get their hands on luxury festival goodie bags. During the weekend the winner will be one of more than 150,000 music fans spread across both festival sites, enjoying show-stopping performances from the likes of The Stone Roses, The Killers, Snow Patrol, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds the first lady of American hip-hop Nicki Minaj and the Ivor Novello winning Ed Sheeran. For more information on how to enjoy V Festival 2012 in style, head to www.vfestival.com/tickets/v-style-luxury-camping
how to win To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, email your name, telephone number and the answer to the following question to competitions@runwildgroup.co.uk with V FESTIVAL in the subject bar. How many music fans will the V Festival sites host in total on 18 and 19 August? a) 50,000 b) 100,000 c) 150,000 The closing date for entries is 11 August 2012. The competition prize is two V Style camping tickets for V Festival 2012 at Hylands Park, Essex on 18 and 19 August 2012. This prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative will be offered. The competition is open to UK residents aged 18 or over, and closes at 23:59 on 11 August 2012. Entries received thereafter will be discarded. The promoter reserves the right to withdraw or amend this promotion. Employees and directors of Runwild Media Group and their subsidiaries and affiliates, agents, dealers and their immediate family or household members are not eligible to enter. By entering this competition you agree to your details being used by Runwild Media Group for promotional purposes. Please see www.rwmg.co.uk for full terms and conditions.
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CWpromotion
Drive Time Salon Privé is renowned for offering the motoring world exclusive and oneoff opportunities to see some of the most exciting and unique cars in the world – and this year is no exception. With all tickets offering exquisite luxury catering, and sponsors from the worlds of luxury jewellery, watches and Champagne, there really is no excuse not to attend
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nown the world over as the super car
event where manufacturers come to exhibit and debut their latest super and hyper cars, Salon Privé is the place to indulge in a series of motoring firsts. Held annually at Syon Park in West London, the event is in its seventh year and is now firmly established as the UK’s most prestigious super car event and concours d’elégance. This year, London’s Eterniti Motors will be unveiling the Artemis, the world’s first Super SUV, while enthusiasts can also see Croatian super car, the Rimac Concept_One, in the UK for the very first time. Also making its British debut is the Disco Volante 2012, only seen once before at the Geneva International Motor Show in March earlier this year.
Expected to steal the limelight at this year’s event, and on display for the first time in the UK, is the very special ROFGO Gulf Collection, a rare collection of Gulf liveried cars acquired from around the world by Duncan Hamilton & Co’s Chairman, Adrian Hamilton. Other collectors are also bringing their own treasured motors, including a number of unique one-offs, such as the 1953 Pegaso Thrill by Touring Superleggera of Milan, the 1912 Bugatti Type 16 number 471, the oldest competition Bugatti and the personal racing car of Ettore Bugatti, while Jamiroquai's front-man Jay Kay will also be exhibiting two cars from his own collection, a Ferrari 330 GT Vignale shooting brake and an Aston Martin DB6 Volante.
CWpromotion
This year, organisers are excited to be welcoming such motoring greats as McLaren and Fisker, both of whom are attending Salon Privé for the first time ever in 2012, alongside long-established premium marques such as Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Ferrari, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz / AMG, Noble and Warr’s HarleyDavidson. The three day event culminates in the spectacular Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance Judging Day on Friday 7 September with a glittering gathering of historic and prestigious cars. Chubb Insurance is acknowledged as the leading insurer of classic cars and super cars and is a company that has won more awards than any other specialist insurer. This year’s competition is judged by no less than 18 industry experts, including Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez, five times Le Mans Winner Derek Bell MBE, Director of Design at Aston Martin Marek Reichman, McLaren Styling Director Frank Stephenson, Design Director for Jaguar Ian Callum, and Car Design Chief and Head of Zagato, Andrea Zagato, as well as 5th Gear’s Vicki Butler-Henderson.
Chubb Insurance Concours D’ElÉgance Classes • Class A: Ferrari F40 - Celebrating 25 Years Of An Icon • Class B: Pre-War Rarities • Class C: Closed Sports Cars From The Swinging Sixties • Class D: Vee-Twins Through The Ages • Class E: Open Sports Cars From The Swinging Sixties • Class F: Collection Of Shooting Brakes • Class G: Bugatti - The Vintage Competition Series • Class H: Important Competition Machines • Class I: The Design Class Featuring Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera • Class J: Mercedes-Benz Gullwing - The Legend At 60 While Salon Privé has become a calendar highlight for enthusiasts, collectors and buyers of modern and classic super cars, it is also much more than just a car show. A fashionable and glamorous garden party, it caters as much for motoring enthusiasts as it does for guests who simply enjoy relaxing in exquisite surroundings. Standard tickets cost from £195pp + VAT, which includes the delights of Pommery Champagne, a lobster luncheon and traditional English
Croatian super car, the Rimac Concept_One
afternoon tea, as well as access to an eclectic mix of premium luxury goods on display from associate sponsors, Audemars Piguet, Boodles and Vertu. Alongside the event’s impressive portfolio of sponsors, which also includes Chubb Insurance and Pommery, will be a number of new brands representing sectors such as yachts and yacht brokers, private jets and fractional ownership, accessories, fashion, furniture and audio-visual equipment. There is something here for everyone, and in the beautiful setting of Syon Park you can truly experience the fun and festivity of Salon Privé. Salon Privé regular Jay Kay, said: “If you are looking for a splendid day out in London, surrounded by beautiful people and, in my opinion, even more beautiful cars – then Salon Privé is the place for you. There are some seriously unique exhibits this year and I for one can’t wait to take a closer look at the Gulf collection and the Ferrari F40 25 years’ celebration. See you there!” n
TICKETS Salon Privé 2012 sponsor Pommery Champagne
With more to see than ever before, Salon Privé is shaping up to be a fabulous sell-out event once again. Tickets are fully inclusive of Pommery champagne, a lobster luncheon, English afternoon tea and full access to all areas. Book your tickets online with the code CW123 for preferential 10% off rates: www.salonprivelondon.com
Calendar of Events Wednesday 5 September 2012 11am – 5pm: Salon Privé Press Day Dress Code: Smart/Casual Fully inclusive daytime ticket: £195pp + VAT
Thursday 6 September 2012 11am – 5pm: Boodles Ladies’ Day Dress Code: Dress to Impress Fully inclusive daytime ticket: £195pp + VAT 7pm–1am: The Diamond Jubilee Ball at Salon Privé in support of Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity Dress Code: Black Tie with a splash of Fully inclusive evening ticket: £295pp + VAT or £2,950 per table of 10 + VAT The Diamond Jubilee Ball at Salon Privé promises to be a glittering evening of supercars, superstars, Pommery champagne, complimentary bar, fine cuisine, dancing and top-flight entertainment.
Friday 7 September 2012 11am – 7pm: Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance Judging Day Dress Code: Smart/Casual Fully inclusive daytime ticket: £225pp + VAT
luxury brands This year Salon Privé welcomes back its loyal portfolio of sponsors, including: Audemars Piguet
Boodles
Vertu
2012 is an important year for luxury watch brand Audemars Piguet as it celebrates the 40th anniversary of its iconic Royal Oak.
For exquisite diamond rings and intricate pieces of jewellery, Boodles is every girl’s best friend. Browse a beautiful selection as you sip champagne.
Vertu has carved out a niche for itself in the luxury mobile handset industry, promising, and delivering, ‘Life. Beautifully Crafted’.
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THE DEVELOPING CITY
A A new exhibition explores how the City has developed over 2,000 years and how it may look in 2050
nyone who calls London home knows the face of the City changes day-in day-out, so it’s almost impossible to envisage how it will look in decades to come. A new exhibition, which explores the relationship between the architecture of the City of London and its success as a mercantile centre over the last 2,000 years, displays the growth of the City since Roman times through the impact of the Great Fire, The Black Death and the Blitz. It also examines how the current financial turmoil will affect buildings constructed in years to come,
along with the changing nature of financial institutions and the worldwide drive for more sustainable buildings. The exhibition features 40 scale models of recent and proposed schemes in the City. Three teams of architects, supported by consultants and property professionals, will display ‘Visions for 2050’ in response to a series of drivers of change, including governance, climate change and banking regulation. n Open until 9 September, The Walbrook Building, EC4, www.thedevelopingcity.com
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Fuel for Thought One of the world’s largest companies, BP has called London home for more than 100 years. As Official Sustainability Partner, Official Carbon Offset Partner and Premier Cultural Olympiad Partner, BP is also providing advanced fuels for the 5,000 Games vehicles. Richard Brown talks to the company’s London 2012 Partnership Director, Mike Sharrock, to discuss environmental legacies, carbon footprints and running the 100m final
interview
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What sort of cultural and environmental legacy does BP hope to provide? We look at legacy in terms of enduring value. Our aim is to help LOCOG deliver its ambition of making London 2012 the most sustainable Games possible. We are doing that in two main ways. Firstly, by providing the fuel for the cars and buses to get the Olympic family and the athletes to where they need to go. We are creating some quite exciting programmes with new advanced biofuel blends which will be world firsts. Secondly, with BP Target Neutral, we are trying to get as many people as possible thinking about their own choices around mobility and their carbon footprint. We have set a challenge for all ticketholders to sign up for free to Target Neutral; we put a little calculator on the website for people to work out their CO2 for travelling to the Games, and we will pay for the offsetting of that. We want a world record for the largest number of people that have ever travelled to a single event and offset their journeys. outlook on life and the possibilities available to them. How can ticketholders offset their travel carbon footprint? We have worked with LOCOG to find the right way to communicate and engage with people. As people are receiving their envelopes through the post with their tickets, they will find a little Target Neutral tab which encourages them to go online and find out more about the initiative. Once they register, we can pay for the offsetting of their journey. We now have more than 200,000 people on board, which we are really pleased about and we are confident the number will continue to grow. First we must calculate the amount of offsetting that needs to be done. Then we buy a number of ‘credits’; one credit is worth one tonne of CO2. We have a portfolio of projects around the world – wind farms, forestation schemes etcetera – that we then invest these credits in. All projects have to satisfy very vigorous criteria to make sure that they are at the right level so that the CO2 takings are accurate. Tell us about The Athlete Partnership program and how BP supports its sporting ambassadors? We are supporting a number of Olympic and Paralympic athletes. In the UK, Jess Ennis, Lizzie Armstead and William Sharman are our Olympic hopefuls and Shelly Woods, Richard Whitehead and Stef Reid are our Paralympic hopefuls. The support goes from providing them with the fuel to get them to training to engaging them in BP Target Neutral. We are also offsetting the travel to the Games of Team GB and Paralympics GB. Across the world we are supporting 60 athletes in nine countries. How and why has BP become involved in the London 2012 Young Leaders’ Programme? It was a specific promise that was made by the bid team back in 2005 to identify 100 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and then to coach them to play roles in their community. Dame Kelly Holmes has been personally supporting the programme and we have had 100 BP managers who have been working with those young people, coaching them and helping them to take on projects in their communities during the two year programme. Hopefully for those 100 young people it has changed their
Tell us about ‘The Olympic Journey’? ‘The Olympic Journey’ is a partnership between ourselves, the Royal Opera House and the Olympic Museum. The exhibition will tell the story of the Olympics from ancient Greece through to the birth of the modern day Games. We will be bringing all of the torches from the Games since 1936 to the Royal Opera House, and all of the medals from the last 100 years. The free experience will also bring to life the stories of 16 of the most exciting Olympians to have competed over the last 100 years. Without giving too much away, the likes of Jessie Owens, Steve Redgrave and Kelly Holmes will be in there. Does having offices in Canary Wharf make you feel more attached to the Games? The Olympic Park is a short distance from our local building, so yes it has. For the people in our Canary Wharf office, being so close to the Games has made it very real. People have been very keen to get involved as much as they possibly can, so we had lots of people sign up as mentors for the Young Leaders Programme. The team around there has been very much part of the journey over the last four years and I get the sense that there is real excitement building. What will BP’s biggest challenge be during the Games? We are providing all of the fuel for 5,000 cars and 1,500 buses; for the generators in all of the venues and stadiums; we are providing the LPG gas for all the catering facilities inside the Olympic park and in lots of other different venues as well. The actual operational side of our role in supporting the Games is a big challenge, but one we are very confident we are going to meet. We have been planning for between three to four years. If you could compete in, and win, one Olympic event what would it be? The 100m final; there’s something about being the fastest person on the planet. n
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comment human resources
Clare Murray explains what employers can do to ensure a smooth few weeks while the Games are taking place
Image courtesy of LOCOG, London 2012
Olympic Challenges for Employers The stadiums are ready, new transport links are in place and before long the Games will be in full sporting swing. However, there is likely to be significant disruption to daily working life as crowds stream into London, roads are closed and employees try to attend as many events as possible.
day. Employers should circulate copies of their sickness absence policy and remind employees that unauthorised absences or using sick time to watch events will be a serious disciplinary event which could result in warnings or dismissal in some circumstances.
Employers may, if they haven’t already, need to consider temporary flexible working requests given that public transport will be affected. Some employers have already indicated that they will close for certain days when events near their offices are taking place. Others should consider allowing employees to work different hours or work from home if it will prove difficult for them to get into work as usual. Normally, flexible working requests need to be submitted using a formal procedure (set out in the staff handbook). However, given that different accommodations will only be necessary for a few weeks, employers may want to implement a shortened procedure.
Some employers will allow staff members to watch big events during working hours and set up a TV in a communal area. However, it should be made clear that employees can only watch these events if their work schedule allows. If a special dispensation is given to British employees to watch key British events, employees of other nationalities will need to be treated in the same way and be allowed to watch their country’s important events. Failure to do so may result in a discrimination claim on the grounds of their nationality. It may be appropriate to communicate to staff in advance how the company will be watching the Games during working hours.
Employees who get tickets to events will request days off, sometimes at the last minute, causing clashes with other planned vacation time. Employers should have a clear structure in place indicating how holiday requests will be handled and effectively communicate it to staff. Employees should be encouraged to discuss these requests between themselves if possible, so as to ensure sufficient cover for each day.
Employers should consider issuing guidelines to employees on how to deal with any offers of tickets that they might receive from clients. They should also consider putting a policy in place if they wish to offer similar hospitality to their own clients. The new Bribery Act 2010 makes it clear that in certain circumstances, corporate hospitality may fall foul of the statute. Given that most people have been unable to obtain tickets to top events, an invitation to attend a key event by a client may be deemed excessive under the Bribery Act and go beyond ‘reasonable’ business entertaining. Furthermore, there should be no evidence or inference that the hospitality offered could be linked to actual or anticipated business with the client, particularly in a competitive context. With a little planning, everyone can enjoy the Games while ensuring businesses runs smoothly. n
There is always an increase in sickness absence during big sporting occasions, particularly when key events are broadcast during working hours. While some may be genuine, suspicion may arise if they coincide with the final of the 100m sprint. Also, employees who have obtained tickets, but have not been allowed to take their requested time off, may opt to take an unauthorised holiday
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 on 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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Colfe’s Colfe’s
HMC Independent Co-educational Day School for children aged 3 - 18
Whole School Open Morning Nursery, Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior departments
Sixth Form Open Evening
Visiting Afternoon
Nursery, Pre-Prep and Wednesday Prep 10th Senior Thursday School11th October October Open Open Afternoon SaturdayMorning 29th 1.45pm – 3.45pm 5.30pm – 8.30pm September 9am – 12pm
Tuesday 15th May 9.30am – 11am Tuesday 19th June 4pm – 7pm Please book in advance An opportunity for Y6 pupils to Headmaster’s Speeches
experience an afternoon of activities
senior school
Please book in advance
An opportunity to visit the school day. school. at the senior at 10am and 11am in on a normal working
Headmaster’s speeches at 5pm and 6pm.
Please book via the Admissions page of our website.
New School Coach Route via Docklands | 11+Scholarships available in Music, Sport and Drama Please book for the above events via the Admissions page of our website or contact Sarah Walker, Registration Secretary, on 020 8463 8110
HornPark ParkLane Lane London London SE12 SE12 8AW Horn 8AW Tel: 020 8852 2283 www.colfes.com www.colfes.com Tel: 020 8852 2283
Safety First
When India’s largest security company, Topsgrup, acquired a controlling interest in the UK’s Shield Guarding Company Limited in 2008, the group’s chairman, Dr Rahul Nanda, entered The Sunday Times Rich List. Richard Brown meets the Indian-born entrepreneur amid last month’s G4S Security fiasco
interview
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rior to joining Topsgrup, Dr Nanda worked in his family’s restaurant business. In just six years he transformed it from an operation that made £100 a day to one that generated £10,000 a day. Joining Topsgrup at the age of 22, he started on a salary of £10 a month. The group is now India’s largest security company with revenues in excess of £150 million, 93,000 employees and 120 offices. By 2020, Dr Nanda’s aim is to make his company the world’s number one security provider. What will be the most challenging aspects facing the security teams at the Games? We haven’t done anything on such a huge scale. This is something like a tsunami; we’ve never seen this kind of thing before, so while we are ready and prepared, the biggest fear I have is terrorism. But I think they [the UK’s security forces] are well ahead of the game, very involved, and the citizens here are also very aware. If your help is not required, stay out of the way and let the police do their job. Did you tender for security contracts at the Games? No, we didn’t. If we had more men then maybe we would have, but we knew we didn’t and it would have meant withdrawing men from their existing jobs and existing customers. We wouldn’t let our current customers suffer.
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security was seen as a requirement for a factory that needed it for x, y and z reasons. But afterwards, insurance went up and made it more mandatory for a business to make necessary security provisions. Even in India, if you employ anyone, you have to get a background check done. It is mandatory. We understand the true risks which makes us all more security conscious. Why are so many Indian entrepreneurs doing so well within the UK economy? A lot more people are thinking outside the box. They are being creative and that is how this country gets back to its original stature. England was the best in the world but we are coming down because other economies are getting stronger. We have to increase our pace, change our thought process, get more aggressive. Now that there are more competitors in the race, we need to learn from them. How does doing business in the UK differ from doing business in India? It’s far easier working here. Everyone is ethical, people aren’t all corrupt, everyone is polite, no one is rude and you have got rights protecting you. There is a big cultural difference. However, when you do business here, everything is in either black or white. In India, there is a different mentality; it is a bit more flexible. Sometimes there needs to be a bit of grey; you need to do grey to please your customers. I believe there is nothing that can’t be done.
You give us the blueprint of your offices and we will design a security system from scratch
Explain what sort of security Topsgrup provides. In India we have about 90,000 employees. Here we have about 3,000. We don’t secure a single nightclub but we do secure the Gherkin and premises owned by Walt Disney. In India we secure airports, offices, everything. You give us the blueprint of your offices and we will design a security system from scratch; physical security, data security, electrical security – security today is much wider than just nightclubs. What has been the key to your company’s success? I’m pretty aggressive as an individual; I’m a martial artist and I channel that aggression within business and find that it works. If you are not aggressive, mentally and physically, you can’t get out of your comfort zone. I love being out of my comfort zone. Also, you always have to stay ahead of the game. If my competitors are working on a scale of one to ten, I’m working on a level of 11 or 12. Did you anticipate the company would do so well when you set it up? Of course not. When I joined I earned a salary of £10 a month; it was just me and two employees. We had absolutely nothing. I never knew how big a market there was. In India 20 years ago, security was unheard of. But I think people who make it on to the Rich List become successful because they stay ahead of the game. They think big and are prepared to be different. What have been the biggest changes in the global security market over the last ten years? Everything changed after 9/11 and then 7/7. Before that
What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken in business? I think closing my restaurant business and starting up in security. Moving to London was a big risk; I was a celebrity in Bombay. I was in magazines and newspapers all the time; when I went to a party everyone knew who I was, all sorts of players and rich men. Moving to a country at 38 where no one knows you, moving out of comfort zone; that was a risk. What do you most enjoy about living in London? Everything. I think it’s amazing how this country has so much potential, the ethics and the culture. I think anyone should come here if they are contributing, as long as they pay tax and do a good job. It’s not about being black or brown or pink or yellow, it’s about doing right and wrong, about being a good man or a bad man. Are you good for society? Are my children safe around you? If not, then you should go back. What are your thoughts on the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson? I like him. I like the fact he is a guy with normal answers; he tells you if he likes you or doesn’t like you. Boris can turn [the economy] around; he is good. It hurts, when you see this great country going downhill. If you could win gold in one Olympic event, what would it be? Martial arts. n
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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
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miami plateau ....................................................... stockholm
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TIME TO UNWIND
O Kick back, relax and enjoy the Games in style in one of OMEGA’s exclusive private residency rooms
MEGA, The Official Timekeeper of the London 2012 Olympic Games, has established an exclusive private residence for members and invited guests from 29 July to 12 August. The exclusive venue will be located at The House of St Barnabas, a stunning Grade I listed Georgian townhouse in the historic heart of Soho. Guests will include members of Team GB as well as OMEGA Ambassador Nicole Kidman. Each room is beautifully decorated and designed specifically around OMEGA’s constellations. The Ladymatic Lounge, named for the brand’s stylish
mechanical watch for women, is subtly decorated in elegantly classic tones. The Hour Vision Atelier honours the brand’s Hour Vision line and recalls the exclusive clubs that have been part of London’s elite social scene for decades. The space-themed Speedmaster Bar, named after the first watch to be worn on the Moon, represents OMEGA’s nearly half-century relationship with NASA. The beautiful Secret Garden features a large screen television to watch all the Olympic action unfold; relax at the end of a long day while sipping on a cold beer, listening to the cheers for the great team GB. n
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arrive and revive
The ‘Alm’ we hiked to today was an insider tip from our host. The view from here of sun-kissed mountain peaks reaching for the sky is simply spellbinding. We feel totally free, nearly giddy with joy. We might even spend the night up here. Just like the dairy maid. For information about holidays in Austria, visit www.austria.info/treasures or call 0845 101 1818
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LOVING LONDON Nestled between Moorgate and Liverpool Street, South Place brings something extra special to the City hotel scene. Combining the buzz of D&D London’s restaurants, Conran-designed interiors and specially commissioned work by contemporary local artists, it is set to be as much a social as sleeping venue when it opens its doors in September. www.southplacehotel.com
urban sanctuary Whether for business, leisure, or something in between, The Four Seasons Hotel, Canary Wharf is surrounded by a stunning development of offices, luxury apartments, sports facilities and restaurants. The impressive three-storey lobby is framed by seven-storey mahogany portals, providing a suitably grand entrance to the 10-storey hotel, which boasts 139 rooms, including 14 suites. With all the elegance and
fine service you’d expect from the hotel group, it certainly doesn’t disappoint – and be sure to book in for a fabulous spa treatment to really make the most of your stay. Just a stone’s throw from a number of top London landmarks, you could be at Tower Bridge, the Tower of London or St. Paul’s Cathedral in less than ten minutes. 46 Westferry Circus, E14 8RS 020 7510 1999, www.fourseasons.com
REFINED FORAGING If you fancy yourself a luxury forager then head down to Cloudy Bay, Cornwall for a specialist weekend of fishing, fine-dining, and of course, foraging. Experience fishing at its best, learning about the variety of local species and expert reeling techniques, then gather local ingredients including wild mushrooms, berries, nettles, sea beet, sorrell and marsh samphire before enjoying a cooking master-class with a Michelin star chef. Held at the stunning boutique Driftwood Hotel in Portscatho, the adventurous weekend package is only available for four weekends across August and September. Now that’s quite a find.
on HOME turf Perfectly positioned just moments from Trafalgar Square, Westminster and Covent Garden, yet close to Mayfair and The City’s Square Mile, The Corinthia’s regal charm and iconic architectural history make it one of the most majestic hotel’s in the capital; the eminent building dates back to 1885 and the Empire days of Queen Victoria. www.corinthia.com
Book through Driftwood hotel, 01872 580644
Brought to you in association with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unsurpassable collection of more than 500 hotels spanning 70 countries, which offer an infinite variety of experiences
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Pretty Picture
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Photography (images far left and second from right): Jules Kosciuczyk
Annabel Harrison visits Sorrento in Italy to walk the Path of the Gods and, in doing so, is enchanted by the region’s beautiful lemon and orange groves, its charming residents and the postcard-perfect peninsula of the Amalfi Coast
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ccording to Roman poets Virgil and Ovid, the Sirenum scopuli were three small, rocky islands where the Sirens of Greek mythology lived. These same rocky islands can be seen today, thousands of years later, steeped in seawater and history, from the Path of the Gods, a walking track between the towns of Agerola, Praiano and Positano, at an average height of 500 metres above sea level and so named because it recalls the mythological landscapes of Olympus. According to the Amalfi Coast’s website, “no other name could describe better the amazing view offered from this mountain trail. From this trekking path, situated halfway up Mount Sant’Angelo a Tre Pizzi it is possible to admire one of the most striking panoramas in the world: an incomparable overview from the Cilento province to the island of Capri.” Indeed. A few words of advice, though: wear sensible shoes and suncream, take enough water, carry as little as possible and don’t be perturbed by the goats occasionally blocking the often very narrow path. Do, if you’re fit and healthy, take the 1,700 steps down to Positano for close-up views of the colourful little town, the next village from Sorrento and home to 4,000 residents. An astounding 10-12,000 visitors a day descend in high season so if you’re not fond of crowds or the midsummer Mediterranean sun, visit in October. Positano has a beautiful old church and cobbled walkways roofed with vines and flowers, lined with plenty of little boutiques selling Limoncello, crockery painted with lemons and lemon-shaped soaps, as well as the prettiest girls’ dresses. Le Tre Sorelle restaurant down by the sea is great for a pizza pitstop; our waiter wins us over with the unexpected addition of heart-shaped bruschetta. I must point out that in visiting and describing Sorrento, one cannot fail to avoid repetitions of the words ‘lemon’ and ‘orange’ as these, the region’s most famous and iconic products, infiltrate everything from food and drink to spa treatments, cultural excursions and interior décor. The fruits immediately make their presence felt: after an easy flight and an easy drive from Naples airport, our car trundles through the bustle of the main Sorrento square, under a wrought-iron, wisteria-bedecked entrance gate and down a verdant, floral driveway flanked by (you’ve guessed it) orange and lemon trees. The gate is embellished with the swirling golden words Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria and the hotel grounds seem to be imbued with an age-old tranquillity. This is not a hotel for those wanting a modern, high-tech experience; it is old-school idyllic and old-school Italian, through and through. If the hotel was to be embodied in a person, resident manager Nicolino Grigio is Mr Vittoria himself. He entertains us with stories and laughter as we eat lunch by the pool at the Orangerie Restaurant, surrounded by (yes, more of them and just as pretty) lemon and orange trees – to our delight, we spot one which is sprouting lemons and oranges, as if sprung from Roald Dahl’s imagination. In fact, kids seem well-catered for; some splash happily in the children’s pool and we can hear others on the basketball court as Nicolino tells us about pizza cooking classes, the sand pit and snorkelling on offer. Our first lunch is indicative of the decadent dining to come: wonderful white wine, crisp, freshly baked bruchetta, bread
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best enjoyed dipped into lemon olive oil and salt, pizza laden with mozzarella, juicy tomatoes and Parma ham and cheesestuffed, sauce-soaked ravioli. Everything is delicious, although definitely not for those on a diet; Nicolino cheerfully tells us he has gained 16 kilograms in his six years in Sorrento. In keeping with the authentic yet quirky charm of the area, the hotel’s 97 rooms and suites are spread across an unusual trio of buildings; two are recognisably Italian, La Vittoria to the west (built in 1834) and La Rivali to the east (1882) but the odd one out is La Favourita, sandwiched between the other two, because it takes the form of a Swiss chalet. From the coast, it appears the oddest arrangement but on land it seems to work just fine. Visitors to the hotel have included many members of royal families as well as Pavarotti, Barbra Streisand and Sophie Loren. From most rooms, one can see Naples, Capri and Mount Vesuvius across the bay, magnificent and colossal. Cocktails on the Bosquet Terrace before supper allow us a peaceful panoramic view and we revisit a fondness for Aperol Spritz cocktails as the sun sets and live piano music filters outside. Supper is seafood-centric, as befits a coastal resort, taken in the Bosquet Restaurant, simpler in terms of its décor than the rest of the hotel and a little too sedate for my liking. Spaghetti alle vongole begins the meal, followed by fresh baked red sea-bream in lemon sauce. Although pudding is good, the savoury options win hands-down. Our final morning is filled with oranges and lemons aplenty. First we visit the locally renowned and family-owned Villa Massa Limoncello farm, which produces an incredible one million litres of the liquor each year, using a family recipe 122 years old. The region is famous for its Limoncello and the cooperative Solagri was founded in 1994 by the splendidly named and utterly charming Mariano Valentino Vinaccia in order to “save from extinction the ‘Lemon Oval of Sorrento’, to enhance the uniqueness and to ramp up production”. The second and final stop is the Il Pizzo Orange and Lemon Grove, used last summer as a set for Pierce Brosnan film, The Bald Hairdresser, and incidentally, Mr Brosnan himself frequented the Excelsior Vittoria during his stay. Fringed with an expansive view over the Gulf of Naples, well-trodden walkways meander through the groves, lemons, oranges and olives growing in tiers above, and pools of water at the base of the trees. An almost impossibly lovely citrus fragrance surrounds me and the air is close and cool. This is where I truly feel like I am in the land of the gods. n
Lemons and oranges, the region’s most famous products, infiltrate everything from food and drink to spa treatments, excursions and décor
MORE INFORMATION Classic Collection Holidays (0800 294 9318) offers three nights at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, Sorrento, from £936 per person this September. This price is based on two people sharing a classic garden view room on a bed & breakfast basis and includes return flights from London Gatwick (other UK departure airports available) and private transfers. For more information about the area please visit www.sorrentotourism.com and www.enjoypositano.com
From top, then left to right: Vittoria Terrace at night, Pizza, Scala Rivale, Citrus Trees, Colazione In Terrazza Camera
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Destination...
Stockholm Kari Rosenberg explores vibrant Stockholm, enjoying local Nordic treats, age-old architecture, and the largest archipelago in Sweden Where to stay…... Grand Hôtel Stockholm Opulent yet classic, overlooking the harbour and Royal Palace, the Grand Hôtel Stockholm (www.grandhotel.se) has been a Swedish landmark since 1874. Modern, yet with a nod to the hotel’s majestic heritage, rooms and suites (of which there are more than 300) are individually and exquisitely designed with plush velvet chaise longes, squashy leather armchairs and beautifully crafted wallpaper in golds and silvers. With four refined eateries on-site, including Mathias Dahlgren’s Matsalen and Matbaren, both legendary for their Michelin stars, the Veranda restaurant, which is perfect for celebrating, and the Cadier Bar, a favourite with Champagne-loving Stockholmers, you’ll find anything you need to eat and drink without leaving the premises.
Where to eat…... Keep It Nordic Open since 1929, Tranan, formerly the Crane, serves classic Swedish dishes such as fried herring with potatoes and savoury pancakes with caviar, as well as linguine with truffle and steak tartar. Take pleasure in the internationally inspired cocktails at the buzzy bar: tequila and lime, Pisco with blackberry and Bourbon vanilla peach purée with mint lemon soda (www.tranan.se). For a fun and bustling venue to enjoy French inspired cuisine, Riche, (www.riche.se) is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Founded in 1896, Riche is similar to its Parisian counterpart, Café Riche on Boulevard des Italiens, in interior decoration as well as in character, with elegant gold-framed mirrors on the walls and crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceilings.
Where to go…... Gamla Stan
From top to bottom: Panorama of Stockholm, Executive Suite Grand Hôtel Stockholm, another Executive Suite Grand Hôtel Stockholm, Grand Hôtel Stockholm exterior, Stor Torget
Translated as ‘The Old Town’, the beautiful cobble stoned city of Gamla Stan (formerly named The Town Between The Bridges) dates back to the 13th century, its saffron hued buildings displaying a range of North German and Medieval influences. Head to the Stor Torget square in Gamla Stan’s centre, bordered by old merchants’ houses and the Stockholm Stock Exchange, and soak up the culture while perusing the many souvenir shops and sampling spoonfuls of chocolate and vanilla from the ice cream parlours. Be sure to visit the Stockholm Cathedral, the Nobel Museum, the Riddarholm church, Sweden’s baroque Royal Palace and the House of Nobility.
Don’’’t miss... The Archipelago The impressive Stockholm archipelago is the largest in Sweden, and the second largest of the Baltic Sea. To the north, you will discover delightful villages, the university town of Uppsala and the Walloon ironworks. Visit Nacka and the porcelain town of Gustavsberg in the east, or head west to Lake Mälaren, with its tree-lined coves, parks, impressive castles and world heritage sites. More than 30,000 islands pepper the Baltic in every direction. n
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British Airways flies from London City Airport to Stockholm twice daily. All flights include a generous free baggage allowance, complimentary onboard drinks and snacks and your choice of seating. To book now, visit www.ba.com
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More ways to do business on the Isle of Man. Up to 3 daily flights from London City. Book now at ba.com
Fly British Airways from London City and you can check in just 15 minutes* before you step on the plane. To Fly. To Serve.
*15 minute check-in for hand baggage only, 20 minute check-in for baggage in the hold. Services operated by BA CityFlyer.
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25/05/2012 15:46
Miami
is the place for me Louise Rose heads to multi-cultural Miami for fusion food, sumptuous spas and an enigmatic buzz that keeps her coming back for more
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city for the young or just young at heart, I’ve been to Miami a number of times and already know it’s the place for me. A jumble of high-rise big-name hotels and colourful Art Deco boutique gems sit alongside the bustling beaches, nightclubs and restaurants, coming together in one fast-paced, pumping nexus for anyone who’s anyone looking for a good time. Often called the ‘Magic City’, it’s a melting pot of cultures and ages; an American gateway to the buzzing streets of Latin America and one big fiesta to remember. While some come to party by night (although, of course, you can find places to party all day, too) Miami also boasts a plethora of gorgeous urban sanctuaries where you can hide from the mayhem, decked out with infinity pools, private beaches and world-class spas. But if relaxation is what you’re after, you won’t need to wait until you leave the country to start. Travelling in style, the British Airways Club World experience ensured mine and my partner’s holiday began the moment we stepped into the Heathrow Lounge, reminiscent of a top London eatery. With leather bound booths and high tables, chic, experienced travellers ordered Eggs Benedict from the à la carte menu. Stepping onto the plane we were greeted immediately by smiling stewards, a full bodied Rioja (optional, of course) and cheese and biscuits on tap — and that was before the fillet mignon even arrived. Changing into my BA sleepsuit, making full use of the lotions and potions provided in the compact Anya Hindmarch toiletry bag, I was ready for a few hours of undisturbed relaxation time. Reclining under a cosy quilt, I took great pleasure in knowing nobody could reach me, finally able to catch up on films, reading and some much needed me time. While the handy plug socket would have allowed me to work on-board had I brought my trusty laptop along for the ride, a holiday is a holiday, after all, and I planned to make every moment until touch-down count. Rising above the city skyline as we approached from Miami International Airport, the Four Seasons Hotel appeared like a sky-high pillar of modern architecture. Just a block from Biscayne Bay it sits in the heart of downtown Miami, 15 minutes from South Beach. One of the area’s AAA Five Diamond hotels, and situated in the financial district, it’s great for both business and leisure trips. Upon arrival we headed straight for the pool, keen to
cool off and get into the chilled-out spirit. As we walked out onto the seventh floor terrace, the tree-lined, two-acre oasis that awaited us was a far cry from the flurry outside. Had it not been for the high-rise backdrop, we could easily have forgotten we were in a city at all. After a fantastic full-body pool-side massage, we sprawled out for a couple of hours to make the most of the late afternoon rays (as certainly all weather-beaten Brits do) enjoying a soak in the neighbouring whirlpool before settling down with a Mojito from the poolside bar, Bahía. Too stuffed from our indulgent plane journey to order a full meal upon arrival, we selected a ‘light bite’ to share and settled on the Florida key lime pie. When in Rome… Feeling fully refreshed from the journey across the pond yet slightly full up from our tea-time ‘snack’, we were keen to sample what the Americans do best at the hotel’s EDGE Steak & Bar, which boasted an array of interesting cuts of meat and fresh indigenous seafood. With a sleek and modern style, much like the rest of the hotel, the restaurant was both elegant and relaxed – from the contemporary dining room and lively bar to the outdoor terrace surrounded by lush greenery and flickering candles. Knowing from past State-side experience to always order seafood when there’s a speciality bar, we opted for the
Left: Day bed at the Mandarin Oriental Above: Presidential Suite, the Four Seasons Hotel Miami Below From Left: Palm Grove Pool, Lobby area, EDGE Steak & Bar, all at the Four Seasons Hotel Miami
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MORE INFORMATION Louise flew to Miami from Heathrow with British Airways Club World Flights from £1,381 one-way www.britishairways.com The Four Seasons Hotel Miami Executive Suites start from £300 a night www.fourseasons.com/miami Mandarin Oriental Hotel Miami Suites start from £450 a night www.mandarinoriental.com jumbo shrimp with chipotle cocktail sauce and the stone crab claw with mustard remoulade. Both were light, fresh and spiced just-so. We followed with a Prime Churrasco Steak accompanied by a chimichurri sauce and a New York Strip with classic béarnaise; chargrilled on the outside and perfectly pink in the middle. If there’s one thing the Americans can cook better than anyone else, it’s a steak. While sad to be leaving our first pit stop we were equally excited to arrive at the Mandarin Oriental for the second leg of our trip. Our elegant room had a Far Eastern twist, a welcome addition to the fusion of styles and influences that make up Miami’s eclectic culture. A tranquil sanctuary with waterfront views, it’s also home to one of the most beautiful spas in the world. And I couldn’t wait to try it out. Choosing the hydrating oxygen facial, what followed was 80 minutes of pure cooling and hydrating bliss, leaving my skin looking younger and visibly lifted. Featuring six stunning VIP spa suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Biscayne Bay, each treatment suite has been custom designed for specific treatments; three are created especially for couples wishing to share their experience. Bamboo, rice paper, glass and natural linens provide a welcome ambience of total harmony, quite at odds with the salsa-dancing city outside. Whether you’re a hotel resident or not, the on-site restaurant Azul offers a delicious blend of modern European flavours with American and Asian influences and is certainly worth a visit. The magnificent white marble open kitchen vied for our attention as we gazed out at the picturesque views. Ordering the carnaroli risotto with a soft poached hen’s egg, pan seared bass with brioche crusted scallops and the Japanese hot pot with sake marinated black cod, each dish was more divine than the last. For post dinner tipples we headed to M-Bar for a cheeky cosmopolitan before venturing out to see what Miami’s nightlife had to offer. With its own private sandy patch of beach, we rose
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early the next day to relax and enjoy the sea, sun and sand without the hubbub of the South Beach crowds. And with so much time spent shore-side, my holiday companion and I felt somewhat inadequate compared with the other toned torsos (adorned, more often than not, in somewhat miniature ensembles) around us. While he chose to hit a few balls on the tennis courts, I - preferring to watch someone else sweat it out - stood and applauded from the side-lines, martini in hand. Offering myriad exclusive hotels and eateries, sumptuous spas and white sandy beaches, Miami boasts an energy unlike any other American city; the language is mostly Spanish, the coffee is mostly Cuban and the laid back attitude akin to the Caribbean. It’s not the first time I’ve visited Miami and it certainly won’t be the last – the enigmatic buzz of the place just keeps me coming back for more. n
From Top: Spa Suite, hotel exterior, beach cabana, Oasis Pool and Beach Club, all at the Mandarin Oriental
STAY FESTIVE.
The brand new Holiday Inn London – Commercial Road, located in the heart of London, is perfect for a Christmas party. We’re full of fun, new ideas and events for the 2012 party season, with three-course festive lunch from £19.95 and dinner from £24.95 per person. So call now to find out more. Book before 31st October and one person goes free for every ten that you book when you quote LONUK-Christmas 2012.
Visit hilondoncommercialroadhotel.co.uk or call 0871 942 9299 to book Holiday Inn London – Commercial Road Central Reservations 0800 40 50 60 Subject to availability.
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12/07/2012 12:17
All images courtesy of Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa
Sporting
Heritage Half a century after it put southern Spain on the map, Richard Brown discovers how the Marbella Club continues to provide both a playboy’s playground and an elegant escape, oozing old-school glamour
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he 1968 edition of Country & Town House said it all. “It breaks new ground, dares to be young, decides who’s who by its own lights, then hides behind iron gates to keep teeming crowds at bay”. The magazine devoted a whopping 12page feature to documenting life at Europe’s most fashionable haunt, describing it as “the last ditch of the very rich”. 44 years on and the hotel that was responsible for transforming Andalusia from an obscure stretch of coastline to a favourite destination among the international jet-set continues to provide a haven for the A-list and aristocratic elite. In fact, so assured is Franck Sibille, the resort’s Director General, of the Marbella Club’s appeal, that he tells me he considers his closest rivals to be a handful of hotels located in Miami and Monte Carlo; in the south of Spain, there’s simply no competition. Of course, Marbella hasn’t always held such an esteemed position among the playgrounds of the world. When, 80 years ago, the continent’s most dedicated fun-seekers sought to escape the monotony of everyday life, it was to the casinos of Deauville, Monte Carlo and Biarritz that they turned. Back then, as the world teetered on the brink of World War Two and Spain emerged from the grip of civil war, there was little about poverty stricken Andalusia to incite Europe’s most eligible bachelors. Save, that was, for one wellhealed aristocrat named Ricardo Soriano, Marques de Ivanrey. Artist, inventor and all round romantic, Soriano was one man to whom the sunny charms of southern Spain did appeal. Stories of his idyllic lifestyle persuaded Soriano’s cousin Prince Maximilian von Hohenlohe, and Prince Max’s son Prince Alfonso, to buy a patch of seaside real estate in 1947. Seven years later, the Hohenlohe’s were the proud owners of a 20 bedroom hotel. They say that without the Marbella Club, there would be no Marbella, and what happened in the next two decades explains why. With Alfonso’s contact book, a Who’s Who of American and European socialites, film stars and dignitaries, the Marbella Club was soon accommodating an avalanche of aristocratic millionaires and celebrated playboys. As royalty came and went and media attention grew, more and more people heard about the delights of Marbella. Just 13 years after the Marbella Club opened its doors, it was forced to turn away 4,000 people in just one summer. The following year Country & Town House described the retreat as one of the “liveliest, clubbiest, most hysterically social” in Europe. Captivated by the sporting opportunities Marbella afforded, in the 1960s Prince Alfonso came up with an idea to promote the area. Inspired by the notion that few places in the world allow their visitors to experience both alpine skiing and swimming in the sea in the same day, he envisioned the Spring Games – a 12 hour extravaganza that would see invitees compete across a range of adrenaline-generating sports. It was,
however, an idea that only came to fruition three years ago. In 2010, with the help of his nephew Pablo Hoenlohe, his dream came through. Golf, paddle tennis, and motorsport were added to alpine skiing, pigeon shooting and water skiing, and the schedule for what would be the first Marbella Club Spring Games was born. What started as a day organised between just eight friends three years ago, grew to a competition amongst 24 in 2011 and between 28 in 2012. Following the action from the comfort of a luxury coach, I watched as, after an early breakfast, this year’s competitors – a roster of sports stars, European aristocracy and various captains of industry – were whisked between six destinations via a fleet of Porches to partake in each event. After an intense ten hours of competition – and make no mistake, in the spirit of Soriano all entrants are there to win – the event culminated the next day in front of 200 guests, aficionados and media at a charity lunch held at Marbella Club’s stunning Villa del Mar. There, the victors – Men’s winner Gregor von Opel (of the European car giant) and women’s winner Flavia de Hohenlohe-Langenburg (Prince Alfonso’s niece) - were announced, before guests bid on sports paraphernalia signed by sporting idols in aid of the Spanish Cancer Association. In true Marbella Club style, lunch started at just past midday and finished when the dancing stopped: in this year’s case, well over ten hours later. Having partied like it was 1968 all over again, emerging from under my Egyptian sheets the next morning for a meeting at 9am wasn’t the easiest. However, breakfast on the Marbella Club’s stunning terrace soon puts things right and it wasn’t long before I was vowing to return next year as a Spring Game’s competitor rather than spectator (I await my invite with earnestness!). It may have entertained everyone from Brigitte Bardot to Bobe Hope, James Hunt to Jackie Stewart, and Sean Connery to Elton John, but the Marbella Club’s present client list is just as illustrious as its past. Pampered by the best climate in Europe and showered in international awards, the hotel continues to provide a retreat for Chelsea and Manchester football clubs whenever they’re in town, among many other reputable names. The week before my visit, the hotel had been the choice hideout of Roman Abramovich and his girlfriend; the week after, it would play host to the competitors of tennis’ Fed Cup Play Off between Spain and Slovakia. Whether it’s oligarchs looking for a hedonistic retreat or sports stars preparing for international competition, it seems the sun continues to shine on Marbella’s most famous club. n
Under a canopy of pine trees, picturesque whitewashed villas take unassuming positions between yuccas, palms and ancient olive trees
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To recreate the Spring Games Experience the Marbella Club has created a three day package including transfers, accommodation, and sports. Email Georgina Shaw at gshaw@ marbellaclub.com for informationa and prices.
Feng Sushi @ Billingsgate Fish Market Sourcing Fresh and Sustainable Fish daily directly from Billingsgate Market Premium Quality Sushi and Japanese Dishes Delivery Monday to Sunday 11:30 - 15:00, 18:00 - 22:00 Parties | Catering | Events Order online fengsushi.co.uk or call direct 020 7537 9160
Billingsgate Market Unit Q9 Trafalgar Way, Billingsgate Market, Poplar E14 5ST 020 7537 9160 DELICIOUS, NUTRITIOUS, SEASONAL & SUSTAINABLE
Kensington 24 Kensington Church Street W8 4EZ 020 7937 7927
Fulham Road 218 Fulham Road SW10 9NB 020 7795 1900
Notting Hill Gate 101 Notting hill gate W11 3JZ 020 7727 1123
Festival Hall Unit 9 Festival Terrace SE1 8XX 7261 0001
Borough Market 13 Stoney Street SE1 9AD 020 7407 8744
Chalk Farm 1 Adelaide Road NW3 3QE 020 7483 2929
West Hampstead 280 West End Lane NW6 1LJ Opening Soon
food & drink
connoisseur
Our recommendations...
food & drink
news
summer SPIRIT
Brunch with a Bang Hilton London Canary Wharf has just launched a delicious new Sunday brunch menu, served in its Cinnamon Restaurant. Choose from a range of soups, grilled vegetables and salads, seafood, smoked salmon, cheeses, terrines, chutneys and pickles, followed by a succulent and delicious roast with all the trimmings from the traditional carvery station.
ROKA’S COCKTAIL WITH A TWIST From the eclectic seasonal cocktail list to the signature Shochu, Roka Canary Wharf’s lively bar is the perfect place to enjoy an invigorating drink after a long day at the office. Relax as you look out over Canada Square Park from the spacious second floor terrace, soaking up the dramatic urban surroundings as you sip on Roka’s signature tipple, Dragon’s Den. Made of fresh mint leaves, ginger, sweet syrupy lychee purée, Jose Cuervo Tradicional Tequila Reposado, floral elderflower cordial and sour lemon juice, strained over lots of cubed ice in a Collins glass, nothing could be more refreshing on a warm summer’s evening.
SOUTH QUAY, MARSH WALL, E14 9SH
Summer Offers The Parlour’s getting into the summer spirit with a host of great offers: reclaim your lunch hour and enjoy any salad and a glass of Long Beach Sauvignon Blanc for just £10.95 or pick up a weekend picnic hamper and receive two complimentary cocktails.
Roka, The Park Pavilion, CanARY WHARF
The Parlour, THE PARK PAVILION
For me, For Choux
Billingsgate Market, Poplar, E14 5ST
If, like us, you’re sick of the sight of cupcakes and have had enough macaroons to last you a lifetime, then it’s time to get choux-ed up on the latest hand-held treats. These delectable pastries, made to order, are topped with a smooth fondant and filled with flavoured cremé patissiere. The perfect dessert, indulgent snack or gift, they can prepare bespoke orders for birthdays and weddings, too.
020 7537 9160
www.choux-london.co.uk
PUT AN OLYMPIC RING ON IT Good news for die hard Japanese food fans: Feng Sushi’s Billingsgate delivery service will be taking orders as normal during the Olympics. They’re ready and waiting for a surge in takeaway requests as Canary Wharf workers come into the office earlier and leave their desks later while the Games are on. While many of us will be glued to our computer screens during lunch hour, you’ll be relieved to know that Feng
Sushi will be on hand to take orders. Even if the transport system is a little unpredictable, your spicy tuna maki quota will not be affected. So don’t sweat: if you can’t get off the starter blocks, give them a ring and they’ll do a 100m sprint straight to your office. Feng Sushi Billingsgate, Unit Q9, Trafalgar Way
99
A Wise Choice Louise Rose heads to The Spread Eagle in Greenwich to enjoy the new all-British menu
“H
e was a wise man who invented beer”, said Plato. Perhaps better known for his musings on democracy than endorsing the virtues of a good pint, his sentiments nonetheless ring as true today as they did more than 2,000 years ago. It’s arguably the least debated point the man ever made. As the British love affair with the pub continues to grow, punters now demand much more than just a packet of peanuts with their Coronas (though that’s not to say they’re any less discerning about the tipples on offer). With origins as a tavern and coaching inn from the early 1600s, The Spread Eagle had, by Victorian times, also gained a reputation as an excellent restaurant, too – a reputation maintained for a few hundred years. Still a London landmark, it continues to set the standard for fine food in Greenwich. Following a recent summer makeover, coupled with an exciting new modern British menu, the London eatery is pulling out all the stops. The fabulous new à la carte menu has been created by chef extraordinaire, Mark Broadbent, famous for running Bluebird in Chelsea and competing against Marcus Wareing in the Great British Menu. The new prix fixe menu, at an affordable £19.50 per head, is executed by head chef Alessio Piras with Mark’s old friend and long-time colleague, Aydon Yeaman at the helm. The delectable menu offers some new truly mouth-watering dishes with starters including won tons with Scottish scallops, vine tomato water and lemon thyme, a light and fluffy twice baked soufflé with papillon Roquefort, Cressan pear, endive and walnuts and popcorn fried squid served with green chilli, lime and a zesty fresh mint dressing. Providing you still have room after demolishing every last morsel of your starter (because trust me, you will), the succulent Salt Marsh lamb chops with fresh mint jelly and the juicy 10oz Angus sirloin steak accompanied by naughty but nice triple cooked chips and a rich and buttery béarnaise sauce are not to be missed. For non-carnivores, the broad bean, saffron and
lemon thyme risotto makes a great meat-free dish, whether you’re an ardent veggie or not. To finish, indulge in some scrumptious desserts such as the delicate apricot tarte tatin, the sweet tooth’s favourite tutti-frutti ice cream or a strawberry Knickerbocker glory with iced clotted cream for one big nostalgic treat. The extensive wine list is mainly French, with a small selection of Italian and ‘rest of the world’ wines, all served by the carafe, with champagne served in coupé glasses. Keen to make the most of the fantastic local fare, The Spread Eagle is committed to sourcing local ingredients such as Cornish Earlies (the equivalent to Jersey Royals) and a variety of other tasty seasonal summer vegetables. The Spread Eagle is still styled with the same art collection as it was in the 17th century but with new vibrant furniture in emerald blues and rich warm reds. The interior is light and airy; natural light floods in through the windows of the main dining room. The fantastic venue can also be hired for a variety of intimate or grand occasions, boasting two main areas ideal for hosting an event. At the top of the grand spiral staircase is a new lounge bar area with comfortable sofas and chairs to sit back and relax, away from the hustle and bustle of this month’s sporting activities. You will also find the first floor private dining room; the elegant framed artwork embellishes the walls, framed by the classic sash windows, while the ground floor private dining room sits behind a glass panelled door, just off the main dining area. While Plato, unfortunately, isn’t available for comment, I’m pretty sure he wouldn’t mind if I updated his sentiments: “He was a wise man who invented beer – then served delicious food alongside it.” n The Spread Eagle 1-2 Stockwell Street, Greenwich, SE10 9JN 020 8853 2333, www.spreadeaglerestaurant.co.uk For your 10 per cent discount quote EAGLES04R5 when you call to book. This offer is valid for the à la carte menu from 13 August to 30 September from Sunday to Thursday only, subject to availability.
food & drink
connoisseur
The Best of
British Fare Kari Rosenberg samples some home-grown delicacies at the wonderful Plateau
W
hile passion for patriotic fare has grown considerably in the last decade or so − culminating this summer in one big proud-to-be-British gastronomic tidal-wave − school-dinner images of toad-in-the-hole still come to mind when any restaurant boasts of a totally home-grown menu. Call me ignorant, or behind the times, but it’s an image I just couldn’t shake − until, that is, I made a trip to Plateau to sample some of its Best of British dishes. The beautiful fourth floor restaurant, overlooking Canada Place, is impressive from the moment you walk through the door: an open spacious bar and restaurant, it is buzzing with punters at any hour, the light flooding through the floor-toceiling windows, bouncing off the industrial-chic lampshades. The sommelier came over as soon as we’d sat down (always a good sign) to offer up the best of British wines on the menu. Having never sampled any locally made wine before, I agreed to taste a variety with every course, from fresh whites and rosés originating from Kent and Cornwall to full bodied reds. Hard pushed to decide between the five course ‘Best of British’ tasting menu — pea soup with cured ham, cured Scottish salmon, slow cooked sea bass or roast fillet of Hereford beef followed by lemon and lime sorbet and a choice of strawberries and cream or seasonal British cheeses — or the mouth-watering à la carte, also British themed, with each dish sounding more sumptuous than the next, I decided to mix and match in order to get a taste of both
(and not, I’ll have you know, because I’m greedy). I started off with the poached Orkney Isle scallops with courgettes in a vermouth cream which was light, delicate and subtle, the silky scallops cooked to perfection. My partner opted for the citrus-cured Scottish salmon served with pickled cucumber and crème fraiche (also a starter on the Best of British tasting menu), as he often does when faced with a salmon and one too many menu options. Following on, my baked half lobster served with pommes frites and béarnaise sauce (traditionally served with garlic butter, but upon request, not an eyelid was batted at the swap) was meaty, soft, and, most importantly, there was plenty of it, alleviating any disappointment of a half empty shell which happens far more often than it should when ordering lobster. My dining companion went for another dish that had caught his eye on the tasting, as well as the à la carte menu: the roast fillet of Hereford beef served with a caramelised shallot, swede purée and a gorgeous cube of braised cheek, which, I must admit, I pinched from his plate when his back was turned. The beef was also cooked just right, and having tasted quite a few mouthfuls myself (all in the name of journalistic accuracy) I’d recommend it to any meat lover. Post mains but pre dessert we were served a palette cleansing lemon and lime sorbet with Nyetimber sparkling wine, which was refreshing and zesty. The cheese platter then somehow made its way to our table, and for those who love a Stinking Bishop, you will be hard pressed to find a more assorted trolley. With impeccable service, a relaxed yet business appropriate atmosphere, and enough British dishes to feast on for a week, Plateau gets a ten out of ten for patriotic passion and performance. n
more information Plateau’s Best of British Festival will run through to the Paralympic Games in September. There will be a charity dinner on Monday 17 September in support of local charity, IDCF, where Plateau’s head chef Allan Pickett will be joined in the kitchen by three other hugely talented chefs from around the country. Tickets are £80 for four courses while for corporate group packages, including four courses, a complimentary glass of Nyetimber sparkling wine and a visit from two of the chefs, tickets are £100, with all profits going to IDCF. To book, call 020 7715 7100 or visit www.plateau-restaurant.co.uk Plateau, Fourth Floor, Canada Place
101
THE Directory Whether you want to dine or to drink, to purchase gorgeous gifts and stylish outfits, to keep fit or to be pampered, Canary Wharf is home to a wealth of services and amenities
Collection
Tiffany & Co.
ASPINAL OF LONDON Cabot Place 020 7719 0727 Carat* Cabot Place 020 7516 0347 Charles Fish Cabot Place 020 7512 9595 David M Robinson Jubilee Place 020 7538 2332 Goldsmiths Canada Place 020 7512 9779 Links of London Jubilee Place 020 7519 1767 Montblanc Canada Place 020 7719 1919 Pandora Cabot Place 020 7987 9801 Tiffany & Co. Cabot Place 020 7409 2790
Concierge
Dove Spa @ Virgin Active
David Clulow Opticians Cabot Place 020 7345 9181 Jubilee Place 020 7519 6284 Dove Spa @ Virgin Active Westferry Circus 020 7519 6657 The Gentry Hair & Spa Canada Place 020 7519 6660 Sean Hanna Jubilee Place 020 7513 2660 SK:N Canada Place 020 7516 0106 The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel London at Canary Wharf Westferry Circus 020 7510 1999 the Spa, reebok sports club Canada Square 0844 558 1329 Toni & Guy One Canada Square 0844 445 7722 Urban Beach Tanning & Beauty Jubilee Place 020 3200 2000 Vision Express Optical Lab Canada Place 020 7513 2408
Calibre
Reebok Sports Club
freedom back clinics Canada Place 020 3197 9100 The Gentry Barber Shop Cabot Place 020 7345 9920 JD Sports Canada Place 020 7715 9644 Nicholson and Griffin Gents Hairdresser Jubilee Place 020 7512 9890 Reebok Sport’s Shop Canada Square 020 7970 0900 The Rejuvenation Clinic&Medispa Cabot Place 020 7519 6950 Runner’s Need Churchill Place 020 7512 9107 smilepod walk in hygiene Canada Place 020 7513 1132 Sweaty Betty Cabot Place 020 7513 0666 Waitrose Food, FASHION & Home Canada Square 020 7719 0300
Connoisseur
Boisdale of Canary Wharf
Roka
Boisdale of Canary Wharf Cabot Place 020 7715 5818 boisdale.co.uk EAT IN
Iberica Canary Wharf Cabot Square 020 7636 8650 ibericalondon.co.uk EAT IN
Byron Cabot Place 020 7715 9360 byronhamburgers.com EAT IN, TAKE-AWAY
Jamie’s Italian Churchill Place 020 3002 5252 jamieoliver.com/italian EAT IN
Canteen The Park Pavillion 020 7513 0406 canteen.co.uk EAT IN, TAKE-AWAY
Le Relais de Venise L’Entrecôte 18-20 Mackenzie Walk 020 3475 3331 relaisdevenise.com EAT IN
Davy’s Wine Bar Fisherman’s Walk 020 7363 6633 davy.co.uk EAT IN
Manhattan grill London Marriott West India Quay Hotel 020 7517 2808 manhattangrill.co.uk EAT IN
First Edition Cabot Square 020 7513 0300 firsteditionrestaurant.co.uk EAT IN
ObikÀ Mozzarella Bar West Wintergarden 020 7719 1532 www.obika.co.uk EAT IN, TAKE-AWAY
Gaucho Canary Canary Riverside 020 7987 9494 gauchorestaurants.co.uk EAT IN
The Parlour The Park Pavilion 0845 468 0100 theparlourbar.co.uk EAT IN
Gourmet Burger Kitchen Jubilee Place 020 7719 6408 gbk.co.uk EAT IN, TAKE-AWAY
Plateau Restaurant, Bar & Grill Canada Place 020 7715 7100 plateaurestaurant.co.uk EAT IN
Plateau Restaurant, Bar & Grill
Quadrato Restaurant Four Seasons Hotel London at Canary Wharf Westferry Circus 020 7510 1857 fourseasons.com/canarywharf EAT IN Reebok bar & restaurant Canada Place 020 7970 0920 reeboksportsclublondon.com EAT IN, TAKE-AWAY Rocket Restaurant & Bar Churchill Place 020 3200 2022 rocketrestaurants.co.uk EAT IN Roka The Park Pavilion 020 7636 5228 rokarestaurant.com EAT IN Smollensky’s Reuters Plaza 020 7719 0101 smollensky’s.co.uk EAT IN Wahaca The Park Pavilion 020 7516 9145 wahaca.com EAT IN, TAKE-AWAY wildwood Jubilee Place 020 7719 1213 wildwoodrestaurants.co.uk EAT IN
LONDON Homes&
PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area
C o v e r i n g CANARY WHARF, D OC K L AN D S , WA P P ING & T h e C i t y
Here & Now
The Experts’ opinions
The search continues Waterford Interiors www.harrods.com
Exclusive London homes
Seacon Tower, Canary Wharf E14 Penthouse apartment
A stunning penthouse offering fantastic views of the Thames and City of London. 2 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, reception room with access to private balcony and 2 terraces, open plan kitchen, utility room with WC, concierge, private parking, leisure facilities. Approximately 136.3 sq m (1,467 sq ft) Leasehold 988 years approximately Guide price: £1,400,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966 (CNW120124)
Brightlingsea Place, Limehouse E14 Stunning townhouse
A stunning townhouse arranged over four floors with an entrance via the gated communal gardens. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room with access to private patio, open plan kitchen/dining room, utility room with WC, 2 balconies, private underground parking space. Approximately 171.7 sq m (1,849 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: £1,250,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966 (CNW120073)
CW & City July 2012 - 10 July 2012 - 23423
10/07/2012 17:34:24
Discovery Dock, Canary Wharf E14
Two bedroom apartment A very well presented two bedroom apartment boasting views of the dock and towards the River. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2nd bedroom, family bathroom, reception room with access to private balcony, kitchen, concierge, leisure facilities, swimming pool. Approximately 82.1 sq m (884 sq ft) Leasehold 988 years approximately Guide price: £625,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966 (CNW120090)
Waterman Building, Canary Wharf E14
Two bedroom apartment An extremely well presented apartment with balcony offering stunning river views from all principal rooms. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2nd bedroom, shower room, reception room with access to private balcony, separate kitchen, concierge, leisure facilities, private parking. Approximately 89 sq m (958 sq ft) Leasehold 983 years approximately Guide price: £565,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966 (CNW120080)
CW & City July 2012 page 2 - 10 July 2012 - 23436
10/07/2012 17:32:38
NEO Bankside, Southbank SE1 A striking new development
NEO Bankside offers world-class luxury accommodation in an excellent location adjacent to the Tate Modern and a short walk from the City. Studios-3 bedrooms, 1-3 bathrooms, 24 hour concierge service, wine cellar, business centre and future plans for a resident’s gym. Available furnished and unfurnished Prices ranging from £450-£3,250 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7480 6848
August 2012 - NEO Generic CITY and CW - 13 July 2012 - 23544
16/07/2012 10:14:59
Ivory House, St Katharine Docks E1W
Cinnabar Wharf, Wapping E1W
A lovely apartment full of character to rent in in St Katharine Docks. The property comprises 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, master dressing room, exposed brick work, stone flooring and views of the dock from both sides of the apartment.
A stylish apartment set in this 24 hour portered development in west Wapping. Bedroom with en suite bathroom, guest bathroom, reception room with fully fitted open plan kitchen, parking and a private balcony with south facing river views.
Available furnished Guide Price: £775 per week
Available furnished
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
Free Trade Wharf, Wapping E1W A light apartment which has been refurbished to very high standards. Master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, 2nd bedroom, bathroom, reception room opening onto a private terrace, separate kitchen and 2 additional roof terraces.
Guide Price £575 per week
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
The Ragged School, Borough SE1
Available furnished
A unique opportunity to rent two impressive 1 bedroom split level apartments with private roof terraces. The apartments are available individually or together and offer charming living space. Approximately 2,153 sq ft (201 sq m) Available furnished
Guide Price £495 per week
Guide Price: £675 per unit per week or £1,250 for both
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings
KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
CW QP August 2012 - 16 July 2012 - 23565
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
16/07/2012 17:02:27
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savills.co.uk
BERKELEY TOWER, e14
BELGRAVE COURT, e14
Reception room ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø balcony ø parking ø guest w.c ø concierge ø 172 sq m (1,855 sq ft)
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø parking ø balcony ø concierge ø 24hr security ø 80 sq m (866 sq ft)
Guide £1.55 million Leasehold
Guide £575,000 Leasehold
3 4
Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500
PORT EAST, e14
BOARDWALK PLACE, e14
Reception room ø open plan kitchen ø 2 double bedrooms ø 2 en suite bathrooms ø parking space ø concierge ø 101 sq m (1,806 sq ft)
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø underground garage parking ø balcony ø concierge ø 72 sq m (776 sq ft)
Guide £540,000 Leasehold
Guide £455,000 Leasehold
Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500
1 2
savills.co.uk
LANGBOURNE PLACE, e14
IVORY HOUSE, e1w
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø bathroom ø 2 shower rooms ø utility room ø terrace ø balcony ø parking ø 170 sq m (1,825 sq ft)
Reception room ø double bedroom ø 1 bathroom ø terrace ø separate balcony ø 24hr concierge ø dock views ø 69 sq m (745 sq ft)
Guide £875,000 Share of Freehold
Guide £775,000 Leasehold
3 4
Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800
LUNA HOUSE, se16
INKWORKS, se1
Reception room ø open plan kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø parking space ø 85 sq m (910 sq ft)
Reception room ø 2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø off-street parking ø balcony ø contemporary design ø 85 sq m (911 sq ft)
Guide £750,000 Leasehold
Guide £660,000 Leasehold
Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800
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savills.co.uk
WEST INDIA QUAY, e14
DISCOVERY DOCK, e14
3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø allocated parking ø views of Canary Wharf ø 24hr porterage ø recently refurbished ø 5* development
3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms (2 en suite) ø 3 balconies ø direct views of Canary Wharf and the Dock ø allocated parking ø 24hr porterage ø penthouse
£1,500 per week Furnished
£1,350 per week Furnished
3 4
Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500
BALTIMORE WHARF, e14
MILLENNIUM DRIVE, e14
1 bedroom ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø balcony with direct dock views ø 24hr porterage ø residents leisure facilities ø communal gardens
1 bedroom ø reception room ø bathroom ø balcony with river views ø allocated parking ø porterage
£415 per week Furnished
£380 per week Furnished
Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500
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savills.co.uk
NEO BANKSIDE, se1
CITY QUAY, e1w
2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ø juliet balcony ø views of the London Eye ø 24hr porterage ø new development
1 bedroom ø bathroom ø terrace with marina views ø allocated parking ø 24hr security ø prestigious development
£775 per week Furnished
£595 per week Furnished
3 4
Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800
MOROCCO WHARF, e1w
GUN WHARF, e1w
2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø large warehouse windows ø warehouse conversion ø exposed brickwor k
1 bedroom ø reception room ø bathroom ø balcony with river views ø allocated parking ø porterage
£525 per week Furnished
£525 per week Furnished
Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Pan Peninsula East, London, E14 - £317,500 Leasehold Stoneyard Lane, London, E14 - £320,000 Leasehold • Luxury development • 24th Floor studio suite • 24hr concierge • Gym, Cinema & Pool
• Two bed apartment • 2nd floor with balcony • Allocated parking • Poplar DLR
St Davids Square, London, E14 - £438,000 Leasehold
Belgrave Court, London, E14 - £685,000 Leasehold
• Two bed apartment • Large balcony • River Views • Secure Parking
• Two beds, two baths • 5th floor river views • Excellent condition • Secure parking
11 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4HE
020 7715 9700 joneslanglasalle.co.uk
New Festival Quarter, E14
£255pw
• 4th floor studio • Brand new development • Balcony • Langdon Park DLR
Denison House, E14
• Two bed two bath • 4th floor apartment • Gym, pool, tennis courts • Canary Wharf DLR
£280pw
• One bedroom apartment • 4th floor • Concierge & Gym • Langdon Park DLR
£330pw
• One bedroom • Courtyard view • 24hr concierge • South Quay DLR
Cascades Tower, E14
New Festival Quarter, E14
New Festival Quarter, E14
Watergardens Square, SE16 • Two bed two bath • 6th floor apartment • Residents parking • Canada Water Tube
£325pw
• Brand new apartment • One bedroom 7th floor • Balcony • Close to Jubilee Line
£375pw
Landmark East, E14
£380pw
• One bedroom apartment • 13th floor river views • Concierge and gym • Heron Quay DLR
• Brand new apartment • Two bed, 3rd floor • Concierge & gym • Langdon Park DLR
£425pw
City Peninsula, SE10
£450pw
Landmark East, E14
£590pw
• Two bed two bath • 41st floor river views • Luxury apartment • Heron Quays DLR
dockland.sales@eu.jll.co.uk
homes & property
HOT PROPERTY: Style in the Sky
Covering the entire top floor of the Horizon Building and extending to over 2,200 sqft, this magnificent penthouse in Canary Wharf looks out over many of London’s major landmarks including the London Eye, the Olympic Stadium, the Canary Wharf financial district and the Thames. Floor-to-ceiling windows surround the contemporary property, which offers three large
bedrooms, three bathrooms, a large reception room, an open plan kitchen and dining room and outdoor terraces off all the main rooms. The property also includes two secure parking spaces. The finish within this twelfth floor apartment is second to none, owing to walnut and marble floors, custom woodwork features, a multi-media system, Lutron lighting and blind controls. The Poggenpohl
kitchen has Gaggenau appliances and includes double ovens, a side-by-side refrigerator and a wine storage cooler for 200 bottles, as well as granite countertops and splashbacks. There are very few properties within Canary Wharf that offer as large accommodation as the penthouse in this Horizon Building. This is a one of a kind property which would suit a discerning owner. n
Hertsmere Road, E14 ÂŁ1.65M Leasehold Jones Lang LaSalle www.joneslanglasalle.co.uk
020 7715 9700 117
homes & property
DEVELOPMENT FOCUS Past & Present
O
ffering a unique fusion of contemporary style amid a Grade II Listed testimony to London’s grand era of engineering, The Forge residential development offers a superb choice of luxurious living space. Arranged around the historic ‘Forge’ itself, a notable former iron works which contributed to the construction of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s pioneering steamship ‘The Great Eastern’, the development’s features include secure gated residents’ access, landscaped gardens and courtyards, lifts serving all floor levels and comprehensive CCTV security monitoring. The Forge occupies a commanding location on London Docklands, moments from the Thames Riverside and a little over 500 meters from DLR connections. Residents will also be within seven minutes of tube travel at Canary Wharf with the Jubilee Line. The riverboat is also located conveniently nearby from Masthouse Terrace Pier, so travel to and from The Forge could not be easier. The development is ideally placed for a seemingly endless array of recreation, riverside walks and cultural pursuits. With Mudchute 118
Park offering 32 acres of countryside in the middle of Docklands, and one of Europe’s largest inner city farms, all forms of sport and events abound. Numerous traditional pubs and former inns add to Docklands’ unique atmosphere. A selection of studios, one and two bedroom apartments is available. n
Forge Square, E14 £237,500 Leasehold Knight Frank Canary Wharf www.knightfrank.com/canary-wharf
020 7512 9966
homes & property
State of the market WHEN THE GAME IS UP ALASDAIR CARPENTER, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LOURDES ESTATE AGENTS, COMMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MARKET During the last few years there has been a noticeable change in the property demographic. Where once we were a nation of fanatical home owners, suddenly it seemed renting had become en vogue. Landlords capitalised on a plentiful supply of willing tenants and this trend was fuelled in the main by a restricted flow of mortgage funding and a stagnant sales market. Now however, as the market shows genuine signs of recovery, the rental market seems more pedestrian than in recent years and months. The new trend seems to be that of tenants making the transition to home buyers. Many people who put their home ownership ambitions on hold during the more uncertain times are now seizing the opportunity to purchase, in many cases actually deciding to buy the property they rent when the landlord opts to sell. Many home owners became
Q&A
accidental landlords during the slump and they are now more than happy to dispose of the property if the price is right. It is a trend that is welcomed by tenant and landlord alike. Developers have also been getting in on the act. Many developers and house builders were forced to retain stock during the downturn and they are more than happy to offer incentives to their existing tenants should they wish to acquire the property they rent. For many being a tenant is a great way to research an area thoroughly before deciding exactly what and where to buy. It’s a way of making sure the dream address really is the dream address. n Lourdes Estate Agents 020 7518 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com
with JAMES BEARRYMAN, DIRECTOR AT FRANKLYN JAMES Should Stamp Duty be stamped out? What was really once a tax on expensive property 30 or 40 years ago is now something that almost everyone has to pay. It is especially difficult for buyers in more expensive areas such as London. On 24 March 2010, Chancellor Alistair Darling introduced two significant changes to UK stamp duty. For first-time buyers purchasing a property under £250,000, stamp duty was abolished for the next two years. This measure was offset by a rise from four per cent to five per cent in stamp duty on properties costing more than £1 million It’s bizarre that at £250,001 the rate triples from one per cent to three per cent and then rises in one per cent increments now to seven per cent over £2,000,000. This is probably the most common price bracket for potential first time buyers and this just makes things even more difficult to take that first jump into the market. So what alternative could there be? For one, an interim band of two per cent between say, £250,000 and £350,000 would help matters a lot and one could also argue for the continuation of the stamp duty holiday for first time buyers.
Another option could be for the tax to be apportioned out so the buyers would only pay the higher rate tax for the amount exceeding the threshold. For example, on a £300,000 purchase, buyers could pay one per cent for the first £250,000 and then three per cent on the balance. There are many possibilities for improvement and the Government needs to keep in mind l the benefits to the rest of the economy of a buoyant property market. As a result of a property sale, there are many sectors that benefit such as builders, decorators, removal companies, electrical suppliers, kitchen and bathroom suppliers, legal and property professions. Even if my suggestion has its flaws, then it can’t be beyond the treasury to come up with a better way of taxing a property purchase. We need a system that doesn’t deter property transactions and distort house prices in the way that Stamp Duty does. n Franklyn James Estate Agents, Docklands 020 7005 6080 www.franklynjames.co.uk
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homes & property
expert comment SALES:
LETTINGS:
Seize the day
Long-term prospects
Andrew Groocock, Associate at Knight Frank
Vanessa Evett-Beesley, partner at Knight
in Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the
Frank in Canary Wharf, comments on the
residential sales market
trends in the residential lettings market
So, the summer’s main event is finally upon us and in the world of estate agency we venture into a rather unknown period. The year to date has been a record breaker for Knight Frank, with Docklands longest serving estate agency posting their best ever figures. However, we now turn to a period of uncertainty as the performance of the property market during an Olympics is certainly an unknown quantity. The Diamond Jubilee, schools’ half term and Wimbledon all seem to have already led to a slowdown of viewings, but as is testament to the interest in the Docklands market, the number of deals being agreed has been maintained. All of this has meant that there is still a shortage of stock available in the most sought after developments of Canary Wharf and, as a result, competitive bidding is still common on the best instructions to hit the market. We are led to believe that moving around Docklands could prove tiresome (to say the very least) during the Olympic period, however with our office doing flexible hours (6am – 7pm) and the arrival of buyers from all four corners of the world, we are of the opinion that clever vendors will be making their properties ready for the market in order to catch this unique time. The investment interest in Canary Wharf has been formidable this year, and why should it prove to be any different when the world’s attention falls on this area of London? “Audere est Facere” as the famous saying goes!
Concerns that rental accommodation in prime London could be in short supply due to this summer’s Olympic Games have been over-exaggerated. There is little evidence of hikes in rents and LOCOG, the London Organising Committee, has released a further 600,000 hotel room nights which were set aside for officials and the media but are no longer required, reducing the pressure on the city’s private rental sector. However, there is a possibility that multinationals will delay home searches until after the Olympics. In doing so there is a risk that employees being relocated to the capital will miss out on the best properties. They may also find it difficult to register their children at their preferred school in time for the start of the academic year in September. London’s overseas university students (estimated to total c.102,000) will also start to arrive in August to secure their accommodation for the new term. Jemma Scott, head of Knight Frank’s Residential Corporate Services team in London, refers to the Olympic phenomena as a “bubble within a bubble”. She adds “The wider prime central London rental market functions along a diverse set of parameters and although influential, the Olympics are not affecting stock levels or rents. In our experience thus far, Olympic landlords have overwhelmingly been homeowners keen to take advantage of the tourist influx rather than professional London landlords.” Jemma adds that: “We were approached by many of our concerned corporate tenants 12 to 24 months ago and we advised that clear renewal clauses or ‘options to renew’ would provide greater protection in securing their accommodation over this summer period. This was happily accepted in most cases by our professional landlords who wisely kept the long-term view.”
Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 www.knightfrank.co.uk/canary-wharf
Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9955 www.knightfrank.co.uk/canary-wharf
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Vibrant, sophisticated and diverse, London is one of the world’s most exciting cities. Located at its heart, The Residences at W London offer a world-class lifestyle complete with all the perks of being a guest of W Hotels.® The Residences at W London are comprised of eleven exclusive two and three bedroom duplex penthouses situated on the top two floors of W London offering stunning views in a world –class location. wlondonresidences.com
Contact Kate Townrow 020 7499 1012 Gary Hall 020 7480 6848 coventgardenlettings@KnightFrank.com www.knightfrank.co.uk/lettings
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LOUDRES LET
LOUDRES LETTERHEAD:Layout 1 10/10/2011 16:45 Page 1
Galaxy Building, Isle of Dogs, E14 • • • •
Large one bedroom Fitted kitchen Parking Residents Gym
New Providence Wharf, E14
• • • •
One double bedroom Private balcony Secure car parking Leisure facilities
£265,000
£315,000
Mercury Court, Isle of Dogs, E14
Berglen Court, Limehouse, E14
• • • •
Two double bedrooms River views Leisure facilities 24 hour concierge
£429,950
• • • •
Perry Court, Isle of Dogs, E14
• • • •
Direct River Views Two large double bedrooms En suite Porter
£389,999
Two double bedrooms Marina view Allocated parking 24 Hour concierge
Dundee Wharf, Limehouse, E14
• • • •
Share of freehold Direct riverviews Two bed Immaculately presented
£500,000
£599,999
East India Dock Road, Westferry, E14
Limehouse Wharf, Narrow Street, E14
Blyths Wharf, Narrow Street, E14
£629,995
£1,650,000
• • • •
Freehold 7 bedrooms Recently refurbished Westferry DLR
• • • •
Three double bedrooms Warehouse conversion High Specification Water view
020 7538 9250
• • • •
Four double bedrooms Three bathrooms Private patio River facing balcony
£1,850,000
www.lourdes-estates.com
Lourdes Estate Agents, 96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP
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LOUDRES LETTERHEAD:Layout 1 10/10/2011 16:45 Page 1
Berglen Court, Limehouse, E14
• • • •
Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Marina views Allocated parking
Milligan Street, Limehouse, E14
• • • •
Three bedrooms Two bathrooms Private garden Off street parking
The Watergardens, Limehouse, E14
• • • •
Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fully furnished Large private terrace
£430 per week
£450 per week
£450 per week
Switch House, East India, E14
Gainsborough House, South Quay, E14
Dunbar Wharf, Narrow Street, E14
• • • •
Switch House, East India, E14 Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fully furnished
• • • •
Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Allocated parking Leisure facilities
£450 per week
£450 per week
Regents Canal House, Limehouse, E14
Dundee Wharf, Limehouse, E14
• • • •
Three double bedrooms Two bathrooms Recently refurbished Allocated parking
£550 per week
• • • •
Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms River views Allocated parking
£550 per week
020 7538 9250
• • • •
Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms River views Allocated parking
£525 per week
Basin Approach, Limehouse, E14 • • • •
Three/four bedroom house Furnished or unfurnished Marina views Integral garage
£850 per week
www.lourdes-estates.com
Lourdes Estate Agents, 96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP
Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants
Featured Property Jefferson Building, E14 ■ £374,995
■ Leisure
■ Two
■ 24hr
bedroom ■ Secured parking
facilities concierge ■ River views
New Providence Wharf, E14
Hutchings Wharf, E14
Offering spectacular panoramic views across the River Thames, this three bedroom fourteenth floor premier apartment offers fantastic living accommodation comprising; reception room with open plan fully fitted modern kitchen, floor to ceiling windows with access to the wrap around balcony, master bedroom with Juliette balcony, walk-in wardrobe and a beautifully finished high specification en-suite bath & shower room, second bedroom with Juliette balcony and ensuite bathroom again finished to a very high standard, third bedroom with west facing balcony. The main bathroom is also beautifully finished to a high specification. The property also benefits from a secure underground parking space which is accessed via the developments valet service. £1,150,000
■ £424,995
020 7519 5900 info@alanselby.co.uk www.alanselby.co.uk
■ Fourth
floor ■ Secured parking
■ West
facing balcony porter ■ River views ■ Day
New Providence Wharf, E14 ■ £424,995 ■ Two
bedroom premier apartment ■ Fourth floor
■ Wraparound
balcony facilities ■ 24hr concierge ■ Leisure
Wingfield Court, E14 ■ £425
■ Two
■ Two
per week bedroom apartment ■ Fully furnished
■ Balcony
bathrooms
■ Secured
parking
Lovegrove Walk, E14 ■ £370
■ Balcony
■ Two
per week double bedrooms ■ Third floor
■ Offered
with dock views fully furnished ■ Parking available
Jefferson Building, E14 per week Two bedroom apartment ■ Furnished to a high standard
Constable House, E14 ■ £385
per week double bedroom ■ Fully furnished ■ One
■ Balcony ■ Leisure
facilities ■ Secured parking
■ £430
■ Two
■
■ Secured
bathrooms parking ■ Leisure facilities
Pierpoint Building, E14 ■
■ Furnished
■
£525 per week Two bedroom ■ Seventh floor
■ Balcony ■ Two
river / City views modern bathrooms
Franklyn James
Sales
Berglen Court, Limehouse, E14
A very spacious split level one bedroom Riverside apartment with plenty of natural light throughout boasting a large reception, two Juliet balconies, secure parking and close to Limehouse DLR.
Beside the Limehouse Basin is this generously sized fourth floor apartment with one double bedroom, spacious reception, underground car parking space, 24 hour concierge facilities and is moments from Limehouse DLR.
£299,999
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Lanterns Court, Canary Wharf, E14
£325,000
Conveniently located within a short walking distance from Canary Wharf is this wonderfully presented fourth floor, one double bedroom apartment with a 24hr concierge and underground parking.
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Chart House, Isle of Dogs, E14
£349,995
A superb park and river view is enjoyed from all principal rooms in this very well presented fifth floor, one bedroom apartment. Includes double gated allocated parking, on site porter and gym facilities available and within excellent proximity to Canary Wharf.
Berglen Court, Limehouse, E14
£649,999 Pinnacle II, Limehouse, E14
Positioned within a Grade II listed warehouse conversion with concierge & garage parking space is this wonderfully presented two bedroom apartment with a large south facing private terrace & direct views across the River Thames.
Canary Wharf 020 7005 6080
Bow 020 8983 2930
www.franklynjames.co.uk
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The Listed Building, Wapping, E1W
Positioned on the second floor is this two double bedroom apartment alongside the River Thames. Incorporating far reaching views across the river Thames, a large corner aspect balcony, concierge service and secure gated parking.
£465,000
Offered chain is this stunning two bedroom/ two bathroom third floor apartment which offers an amazing wrap around balcony with views of London’s skyline, the River & the Marina. Secure underground parking is also included.
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£475,000
Lockview Court, Limehouse, E14
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£440,000
A two double bedroom third floor apartment in the highly sought after Berglen Court with direct views of the landscaped gardens and Limehouse Marina. The property also includes allocated underground gated parking.
£730,000
Offering great potential for investment or owner occupation is this extremely desirable three bedroom apartment with amazing views across the Limehouse Marina. The property boasts a spacious reception, a large balcony and two car parking spaces.
Limehouse 020 7791 1777
enquiries@franklynjames.co.uk
Sales • New Homes • Lettings • Property Management • Valuations
Franklyn James
Lettings
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£440 pw
A well-presented two double bedroom/two bathroom marina side apartment. The property benefits from 24 hour concierge, impressive marina views, underground parking and is within close walking distance of Limehouse DLR.
Antilles Bay, South Quay, E14
£585 pw
Bow 020 8983 2930
www.franklynjames.co.uk
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T A very rare four bedroom house situated on Narrow street, Limehouse which has contemporary and neutral décor throughout, a modern fitted kitchen, three bathrooms, a good sized rear garden and off street parking.
£460 pw
Situated on the first floor is this stunning two double bedroom/two bathroom apartment with direct views of the dock and Canary Wharf. The property is fully furnished and has a spacious lounge leading to private balcony.
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A stunning two bedroom apartment in situated on the 15th floor of the ever popular New Providence Wharf. Decorated to a very high standard and benefitting from stunning views, 24hr concierge, gym and spa.
£365 pw
A spacious, bright and airy one bedroom flat with amazing direct views of the River Thames. The property boasts a large reception with a balcony, fully fitted kitchen, secure parking and a concierge service.
T Marina Heights, Limehouse, E14
New Providence Wharf, Blackwall, E14 £465 pw
Canary Wharf 020 7005 6080
Ocean Wharf, Isle of Dogs, E14
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T £380 pw
With a contemporary interior and a great location in Canary Wharf, this stunning one bedroom apartment enjoys fantastic views from the 17th floor, 24 hour concierge service and fully equipped on-site gym.
£360 pw
Located within this luxury development is this large one bedroom apartment. Lanterns Court is located a short walk from Canary Wharf and offers a high spec finish, a private balcony, secure parking and a concierge service.
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Lanterns Court, Millharbour, E14
LE The Landmark, Canary Wharf, E1
LE
£350 pw
A very spacious one double bedroom apartment with outstanding views of Limehouse Marina and Canary Wharf, close to Limehouse DLR station and features on site concierge & gated underground parking.
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Naxos, Isle of Dogs, E14
£995 pw
A fantastic two bedroom/two bathroom duplex penthouse apartment boasting over 1650sqft of living space, a large terrace overlooking the River Thames, on- site leisure facilities and secure parking.
Limehouse 020 7791 1777
enquiries@franklynjames.co.uk
Sales • New Homes • Lettings • Property Management • Valuations
Jackman House Watts Street,Wapping E1W
Lime Close,West Wapping E1W
Price: £314,995
Price: £475,000
Capstan Court,Wapping Wall,Wapping E1W
Portland Square,Wapping E1W
Price: £585,000 Share of freehold
Price: £599,995
2 Double bedroom apartment. Fitted kitchen. Bathroom. Separate Wc. Laminated wood flooring. Close to Wapping station and local Bus routes and amenities. Ideal First time purchase or Investment.
2 Double bedroom 2nd floor warehouse converted apartment within this sought after development. Fitted kitchen. Reception with double doors leading to a balcony. 2 Bathrooms. Laminated wood flooring. Secure Underground Parking. Porterage. Close to Wapping Station and Bus routes.
3 Bedroom, 2 storey house within this very popular West Wapping canal side Location. The property has been re-furbished throughout to include a newly fitted kitchen & bathroom, new carpets & laminated wood flooring, new double glazing & redecorated throughout. Own Garden. Allocated parking space. Close to Tower Hill Stations and St Katharine’s Dock.
Situated within a gated development of Wapping. This 3 double bedroom, 3 storey town house offers a fully fitted kitchen, receptions 1 with dining area plus addition reception on the ground floor, bathroom plus en-suite shower room, additional ground floor cloakroom, garden, garage and off street parking. Close to Wapping Station, Local Bus routes and amenities.
ea2 Estate Agency Heritage Court | 8-10 Sampson Street | Wapping | London E1W 1NA t: 020 7702 3456 | f: 020 7702 9168 www.ea2.co.uk | property@ea2group.com
Slipway House, Burrells Wharf, Docklands E14
1 Bedroom Converted warehouse apartment within the sought after Burrell’s Wharf development. Fitted kitchen. Bathroom. Wooden floors. Secure parking. 24 hour concierge. Balcony with river views. £40 per month required for heating. Leisure facilities Inc swimming pool & Jacuzzi. Close to Island Gardens DLR station and River Bus.
Spice Court, Asher Way,West Wapping E1W 1 bedroom modern second floor apartment. Situated within the sought after Quay 430 secure development. Fitted kitchen. Reception. Balcony. Secure parking. Close to Tower Hill stations and St Katharine’s Dock.
Rental Price: £320 PW
Rental Price: £350 PW
Hermitage Court,Knighten Street,WestWapping E1W
Prusom Island,Wapping E1W
2 Double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms first floor warehouse conversion. Fully fitted kitchen. Character features. Secure Undergound parking space. Close to Wapping Station, local bus routes and amenities.
2 Double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms first floor warehouse conversion. Fully fitted kitchen. Character features. Secure Undergound parking space. Close to Wapping Station, local bus routes and amenities.
Rental Price: £550 PW
Rental Price: £550 PW
ea2 Estate Agency Heritage Court | 8-10 Sampson Street | Wapping | London E1W 1NA t: 020 7702 3456 | f: 020 7702 9168 www.ea2.co.uk | property@ea2group.com
sales
Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14
Regency Court, South Woodford, E18
New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14
• Studio with balcony • Furnished • Brand new development • 24 Hour concierge • Leisure facilities • Allocated parking • Excellent transport links
• 2 Double bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Shared garden • Fitted kitchen • Secure parking • 24 Hour concierge • Close to transport
• Range of 2 bedroom apartments • 2 Bathrooms • Balcony • Floors 4 - 18 • River & panoramic views • Leisure facilities • Secure valet parking • 24 Hour concierge
£285,000
£289,000
From £439,995
Pan Peninsula, Canary Wharf, E14
New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14
Hutchings Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14
• Range of 2 bedroom apartments • 2 Bathrooms • Floors 22-26 • Stunning views • Brand new development • Leisure facilities • 24 Hour concierge • Close to transport
• 1,674 Sq. ft. • 3 Bedroom premier apartment • 3 Bathrooms • 14th Floor • Stunning views • Wrap-around riverside balcony • Secure underground parking • Leisure facilities
• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • River facing balcony • Day porter • Secure underground parking • Close to transport
From £685,000
£1,150,000
£424,995
enquiries@henrywiltshire.co.uk www.henrywiltshire.co.uk 020 7001 9160
lettings
Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14
Regency Court, South Woodford, E18
Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14
• Studio • 1 Bathroom • Modern development • Furnished • 24 Hour concierge • Leisure facilities • Allocated parking • Available now
• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Fully furnished • Secure underground parking • 24 Hour concierge • Communal gardens • Cinema • Close to transport • Available now
• 1 Bedroom • 1 Bathroom • Modern development • Furnished • 24 Hour concierge • Leisure facilities • Allocated parking • Excellent transport links • Available now
£325 p/w
£330 p/w
£425 p/w
Barnfield Place, Docklands, E14
Bridge House, Canary Wharf, E14
Grainstore, Western Gateway, E1
• 4 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Unfurnished • Balcony • Off-street parking • Close to transport • Available now
• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Newly refurbished & unique Grade II listed house • Quiet residential street • Communal garden • Fully furnished • Allocated parking space • Available now
• 3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Recently refurbished • Grade II listed warehouse • Close transport and Westfield shopping centre • Minutes away from the Olympic village • Available now
£549 p/w
£550 p/w
£550 p/w
SALES | LETTINGS | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | VALUATIONS 1-2 Laybourne House | Admirals Way Canary Wharf | London | E14 9UH
River Habitat RiverHabitat.co.uk
Property Brokers
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Sibthorpe Road, Lewisham, SE12
Charlton Lane, Charlton, SE7
Venice Corte, Renaissance, SE13
• Two bedroom terraced house • Circa. 672 sq ft with large rear garden • Easy access to Blackheath and Central London • Walking distance to Mottingham Park • Perfect for a small family
• Three bed Victorian terraced house • Rear garden • Fully Furnished • 1266 sq ft over two storeys • Short walk to Charlton Main Line Station
• Brand new two bedroom apartment • Terrace stretches whole length of apartment • Fully Furnished • Good transportation links • Recently completed development
Zenith, 600 Commercial Road, E14
Blenheim House, Britannia Village, E16
£450 p/w
Coldharbour, Isle Of Dogs, E14
£650 p/w
Brigantine Court, 7 Spert Street, E14
£440 p/w
• Two bedroom apartment • Located on fourth floor • Beautiful views from balcony • A few minutes walk to Limehouse DLR • Available Now
•Two bed, two bath apartment •Direct dock views from lounge •Secure underground car parking space •A short walk to Custom House DLR •Available from the end of July 2012
Discover Dock East, South Quay Square, E14
One West India Quay, 24 Hertsmere Road , E14
• Two bed, two bath apartment • Circa 850 sq feet with Balcony • Situated on the third floor • Secure parking • Available Now
£650 p/w
• One bed, one bath apartment • 17th floor with beautiful views • Open plan living and kitchen space • Wall to wall glass on front and side • Available Now
£630 p/w •Three bed riverside duplex apartment •Three roof terraces overlooking the Thames •Secure off street parking •A short walk to Canary Wharf •Available from August 2012
£350,000 • 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment • Located on the first floor • Well maintained apartment block • Communal roof terrace • A few minutes walk to Limehouse DLR
www.RIVERHABITAT.co.uk The Suite LG, 655 Commercial Road, Limehouse, London, E14 7LW Tel: 020 7791 9830 Email: info@riverhabitat.co.uk
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River Habitat RiverHabitat.co.uk
Property Brokers
OLYMPIC RENTALS TOO
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Torrington Place, Wapping, E1W
Lovegrove Walk, Prestons Road, E14
Shooters Hill Road, Blackheath, SE3
•Three double bedroom terraced town house •Private garden and off street parking •Close to Wapping and Tower Bridge stations •Easy communication links to Olympic venues •Available for 1st June to 30th September 2012
•A bright and modern four bedroom house •Large reception with a separate kitchen •Secluded cul-de-sac with rear patio docks •Beautiful water views •Easy access to Canary Wharf
•Seven bedroom house set over four floors •Circa 240 SQ. MT with two receptions •Located very close to Greenwich Park •Three bathrooms and a rear garden •Close to Blackheath Main Line Station
Roland Mews, Stepney Green, E1 £1,760 p/w
Ham Park Road, Forest Gate, E7
Shooters Hill Road, Blackheath, SE3
•Two bedroom Georgian terraced house •Quiet and tranquil mews of Stepney Green •Secure gated access to property •Rear garden and secure parking •Walking distance to Stepney Green station
£3,500 p/w •Six bedroom semi detached period house •Three bathrooms and plenty of storage space •Private rear garden •A short walk into the West Ham Park •Walking distance to Stratford Town Centre
Orme Square, Bayswater, W2
Old Knoll, Elliot Hill, SE13
£16,000 p/w •Superbly presented six bedroom family home •Five bathrooms and a second floor terrace •Beautiful garden and private garage •Opposite Kensington Gardens •Excellent transportation links
£23,750 p/w
•Nine Bedroom House of 8,611 Sq. Ft •Six Receptions and garage •Library, Dining Room and Drawing Room •Large terrace and 65 acre garden •Short walk to Greenwich Park South Entrance
£7,000 p/w •Beautiful five bedroom, four bathroom house •Rare gem for someone with exquisite taste •Property circa. 3000 sq ft with large rear garden •Daily Breakfast Served provided by live-in owners • Easy access to South entrance of Greenwich Park
Foots Cray Place, Rectory Lane, DA14
£20,000 p/w •11,000 Sq. Ft. Mansion on circa. 2 Acres •Seven bedrooms and six bathrooms •Indoor swimming pool, gym and cinema room. •Parking available for seven cars •Available from 26th July – 13th August
www.RIVERHABITAT.co.uk The Suite LG, 655 Commercial Road, Limehouse, London, E14 7LW Tel: 020 7791 9830 Email: info@riverhabitat.co.uk
London's Finest Properties
LETTINGS
SALES
Caspian Wharf, Yeo Street, E3
Ravenscroft Court, Essian Street, E1
• Studio apartment • Fully furnished • 4th floor • Balcony • New concierge service • Nr. Langdon Park DLR
• Brand new 1 & 2 bedroom apartments • Fully furnished • Balcony • River views • 5 Minutes walk from connections to the Capital's entire Tube, Mainline and DLR
£250 per week
Starting from £280 per week
£379,950
£421,999
Constable House, Canary Central, E14
The Landmark, West Tower, E14
• One bedroom apartment • Fully furnished • On site leisure centre • 24hr concierge service • Walking distance to Canary Wharf • Nr. South Quay DLR
• One bedroom apartment • Fully furnished • 9th floor • Balcony • Concierge service • Nr. South Quay DLR
St George Wharf, SW8
• 1 Bedroom apartment • 11th floor • Superior specification • Prestigious riverside complex • Concierge • Moments fromVictoria tube line
New Providence Wharf, E14
• 2 Bedroom apartment • 15th floor • Stunning river views from all rooms • Balcony • Prestigious development
£340 per week
£365 per week
£465,000
£519,950
Ceram Court, Bow, E3
The Landmark, West Tower, E14
The Landmark, West Tower, E14 • 23rd floor • 24 hour concierge • Residents only gym • Air conditioning • Stunning Canary Wharf views
• Stunning 3 bedroom apartment • 14th floor • Unsurpassed river views • Recently refurbished to exceptional standard • Lift and 24 Hr concierge
£560 per week
£625,000
£2,400,000
• Brand new two bedroom apartment • Fully furnished • 3rd floor • Balcony • Concierge service • Nr. Stratford's Olympic Park
£375 per week
• Two Bedroom apartment • Fully furnished • 9th floor • Balcony • On site gymnasium • Walking distance to Canary Wharf
The Landmark, West Tower, E14
• 1 Bedroom apartment • 22nd floor • Full height windows with stunning views • Fully furnished • Concierge & gym • Enviable location
The Landmark, West Tower, E14
• 15th floor 2 bedroom/two bathroom • All rooms river facing and balcony • Beautifully presented • 24 hr concierge and leisure facilities • Moments from Blackwall DLR
St George Wharf, SW8
Sales | Lettings | Corporate Services | Property Management | Short Term Worldwide www.liferesidential.co.uk
Central London 020 7582 7989
Docklands 020 7476 0125
North London 020 8446 9524
South London 020 8692 2244
West London 020 8896 9990
Queens road, cowes Po31 8BQ
Each exceptionally stylish and spacious apartment at Vantage Point offers glorious views out to sea. Your new seaside escape is designed to impress, with its contemporary top specification kitchen, under floor heating and range of security features including secure basement parking. Hurry – just 6 of these stunning apartments remain. Prices from £750,000 Buy now and receive our furniture package free* marketing suite & show apartment open fridaY, saturdaY & sundaY 10am–5pm
*subject to terms and conditions
Come and take a closer look. Call us on 0845 899 0650 or visit www.bannerhomes.co.uk/vantage-point twitter.com/bannerhomesplc www.bannerhomes.co.uk
Love Living In London Six minutes from Canary Wharf 34 mins King’s Cross St Pancras
30 mins Westminster Liverpool St The City
20 mins
Bond Street West End
19 mins London City Airport
7 mins
Stratford
7 mins
Canary Wharf
6 mins
Canning Town is set to become one of the most vibrant areas of London’s East end. Convenient for The City, Canary Wharf, O2 Arena, City Airport, Westfield Stratford City & the Olympic Park
ts 3 en 00 & tm ,0 2 par 10 1, A £2 m m oo ro dr e f Be Sal r fo
Euston
Exceptional transport links with Canning Town Station approximatley 5 minutes away serving the Jubilee Line and the DLR. Residents only eco garden Limited parking available*
North Greenwich O2 Arena
3 mins
“Vermilion is a shining example of a development in a regeneration area” Melissa Porter
TV Presenter / Property Expert
Email sales@vermilionlondon.co.uk Phone 020 7758 8481 Website www.vermilionlondon.co.uk Vermilion on-site Marketing Suite: Barking Road, Canning Town, London, E16 1EH
Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm Saturday & Sunday 10am - 5pm
Developers:
* Limited availability at an additional cost. Computer Generated Images for illustrative purposes only. Journey times taken from www.tfl.gov.uk. Apartment prices correct at time of going to print.
Sole Marketing Agent:
homes & property
olympic FOCUS Exciting Prospects
Images are computer generated for illustrative purpose only
V
ermilion, a 271-apartment mixed-use development comprising one, two and three bedroom apartments is part of a £3.6bn regeneration programme of Canning Town and Custom House. Part of Rathbone Market, one of the East End’s oldest markets, Vermilion is just minutes from Canary Wharf, Stratford City, the O2 Arena and boasts easy access to major transport links across the city and beyond, making it desirable for purchasers and renters alike. Its apartments are both practical and stylish with an abundance of space and include attractive high gloss kitchens with integrated appliances, engineered oak flooring to the living areas and carpet to the bedrooms, high quality bathrooms with Grohe fittings and many with either a balcony or terrace. Understandably, schemes such as Vermilion have been spotted by TV presenter and property expert, Melissa Porter as hotly tipped investment opportunities. Melissa has said: “Hunting out areas that potentially produce
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a good yield is key. Areas like Canning Town and developments like Vermilion are a great opportunity. Newham in East London, a neighbouring area to the regeneration zones in Stratford, has seen a significant increase in property prices since the development of the Olympic Park – regeneration zones are known for lifting property values.” n
barking road, e16 £210,000 – £365,000 Vermilion www.vermilionlondon.co.uk
020 7758 8481
P N EN O T W H O OU N S SA ES LE
GREENWICH CREEKSIDE
EXCLUSIVE, EXTRAORDINARY
A unique development including a fantastic 16 storey glass tower with outstanding 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments, a superb specification and many with enviable views towards The City, River Thames, Maritime Greenwich and Canary Wharf.
Prices from £250,000* Prices at The Vertex Tower from £289,995* Sales Centre located at Greenwich Creekside, Creek Road SE8 3BU Open: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm • Sunday 11am - 5pm
0800 883 8639 or (out-of-hours) 0800 032 0077 www.greenwichcreekside.com Selling Agents: *Price correct at time of going to press. Photographs depict The Vertex Tower external and show apartment interior. Map not to scale.
GREENWICH CREEKSIDE
HIRSH L O N D O N
PAPILLON COLLECTION HANDMADE IN PLATINUM
Famous For Engagement Rings www.hirshlondon.com
WEST END 56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE W1J 0QN - T +44 (0)20 7499 6814 - CITY 9 HATTON GARDEN EC1N 8AH - T +44 (0)20 7831 3333