Canary Wharf Magazine July 2012

CANARY WHARF

Holiday OF A

LIFETIME

TAKE A YEAR TO DISCOVER THE WORLD; TWELVE COUNTRIES IN AS MANY MONTHS

Ready for

TAKE OFF EMBRACE THE SUITCASE AND PACK WITH PANACHE

fashion finance motoring interiors property J U L Y 2 0 1 2 I S S U E 8 4

contents

interview ......................................................equinox ceo business .................... christopher wArd finance ...................................................................................pensions-

feature 10

Holiday of a Lifetime With a nod to our dedicated Travel Issue, we plan a year-long adventure, letting you

Airport plAns to tAke off?

D

espite being one of the planet’s most advanced cities, recent reports suggest that London’s aviation capabilities are far from impressive.

Over the next 2 decades, demand for air travel is set to expand from 240 to 460 million passengers per year.

Though already served by 6 airports, London’s intake of flights to and from the UK is lacking significantly in comparison to rival airports such as Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Charles de Gaulle in Paris. As political opinion moves away from the option of expanding current airports, the

know where to go and when to get there Aviation crisis causes London to reconsider another airport in the Thames Estuary

possibility of a brand new 4-hub airport in the Thames Estuary is looking increasingly likely.

Already dubbed ‘Boris Island’ after its most prominent supporter Boris Johnson, the hub could potentially carry 150 million passengers a year – double the current number passing through Heathrow.

Don’t expect building to start any time soon though; Nick Clegg has already expressed his opposition to the plans, as has the RSPB and many other wildlife groups. With the airport expected to cost upward of £50 billion, the tax payer may not be too happy either. n

81

collection 22

adventure

Perfect Timing Richard Brown meets Omega President

1. December

ck.com / Shuttersto

ary 3. Janu

- Skiing

at Jack

son Hol

e

3

2. New Year

- New Year

in New York

City

2. New Year

Andrey Bayda

eight decade Olympic past

1. December

2

Northern lights in Greenland

Begin your adventure as you mean to go on; start by taking a tour of Greenland’s breathtaking glaciers and icebergs. Whether you take the easy option and do so by helicopter, or pit your wits against the country’s notorious terrain by foot, you’ll discover there’s more to Greenland than ice. Discover unique Inuit culture, Viking heritage, charming villages, outdoor adventure and the mesmerising phenomena that are the northern lights. Plus where better to spend Christmas than in the snowy wonderland where Father Christmas lives?

1

Stephen Urquhart to discuss the brand’s

feature

- Northern

lights in Greenl

and

New Year in New York City

You’ve seen the way the city celebrates the festivities in countless movies; now see them for yourself. The most obvious way to bring in the New Year may be in Times Square, but the city plays host to hundreds of exclusive parties that last through to the early hours. We suggest getting an All Access Party Pass to the Meatpacking District, where socialites, tastemakers, and A-listers mingle side-by-side.

3. January

Skiing at Jackson Hole

You’ve partied hard; now get outdoors and active. While Whistler and Aspen may be the most visited of North America’s skiing destinations, informed enthusiasts will know all about the charm, and beauty, of Wyoming’s Jackson Hole. Found at the gateway to the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, ‘The Big One’ is in a realm of its own when it comes to premier ski resorts.

4. February

Ready For Take Off

lifetime

Kari Rosenberg meets style-passport.com founder Sarah Walter to talk holiday

ck.com

Holiday of a

4. February

- Carnival at

7. Ma

DEC

ibia

7

5. March Chile’s Easter Island and Juan Fernandez Archipelago You’ve experienced the warmth of South America’s people in Rio, now experience the continent’s beauty, courtesy of Chile. Or more precisely, the ‘Far Flung Isles’ of Juan Fernandez Archipelago and Easter Island. Way out in the Pacific Ocean, both remote territories are classified as national parks and each has been singled out by UNESCO for special protection. Visit Ahu Tongariki for the largest number of giant Moai statues ever erected on one site, and the mighty Rano Raraku mountain to see where the Moai were quarried.

6. April

5

JAN

6. April - Freedom Day in South

FEB

Freedom Day in South Africa

The Monte Carlo of Africa, there’s a reason that Cape Town is the continent’s most visited tourist destination. Be sure to explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, one of the Seven Magnificent Botanical Gardens of the World, which is able to boast almost a half of South Africa’s flora species within its 500 hectare landscape. For an overview of the city’s other attractions, why not take a helicopter? From high in the sky you will be treated to breathtaking views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Stadium and the entire Atlantic Seaboard.

7. May

Big game spotting in Namibia’s Etosha National Park

From South Africa, head north to Namibia’s Etosha National Park. Etosha was declared a National Park in 1907 and covering an area of 22,270 square kilometres is home to 114 species of mammal, 340 species of bird and 110 species of reptile. The best time to visit is from May, the start of Namibia’s dry season, when animals are forced to congregate around waterholes, making big game spotting far more likely.

Africa

MAR

APR

MAY 11

interview

future? Matthew Carter thinks it might be...

Online Sensation

Ready forTake-Off

Richard Brown speaks to Chris Ward, CEO of

Style-passport.com founder Sarah Walter talks to Kari Rosenberg about her childhood dreams, recession proof shopping and how to pack a suitcase in three and a half minutes

The Christopher Ward watch company, about

Globe-Trotter Luggage, www.globetrotter1897.com

comment

oining Vogue on the same day as Anna Wintour (who, by the way, she wasn’t scared of, despite some at the magazine running for the door) Sarah Walter had what most would describe as a dream job.

She moved from one glossy magazine to the next – her role at Vogue as Accessories Editor was followed

by Fashion Editor at Harper’s Bazaar and then Fashion Director at Marie Claire – before giving it all up and changing careers completely to launch style-passport.com, a luxury online retail store for all your holiday needs. As we met in her simple North London office, the stripped back brick walls adorned with press clippings while rails of lust-worthy kaftans whizzed past in my peripheral, she was so at odds with the Devil Wears Prada image I’d mistakenly conjured that I was completely taken by surprise. Effortlessly stylish in neutral tones, make-up free with her hair scraped back, Sarah is far more pre-makeover Hathaway than fearsome Chanel-clad Streep.

Married to GQ Editor Dylan Jones, whose continued support, “despite the shift in corporate salary and all the creature comforts that went with it”, allowed Sarah to follow her ambitions, style-passport marks the realisation of a long-held childhood dream.

“When I was a little girl I used to imagine I owned Selfridges” she says. “I’ve always wanted to have my own retail emporium business. I knew after leaving journalism I would never want to open up a ‘bricks and mortar’ shop because the world we live in is going online. My version of my childhood dream is now my internet store. I always wanted my own business and that doesn’t go away. I think when I look back I was doing all the things that I needed to do to end up where I am today.”

Having celebrated its first birthday in March this year, the site is still relatively young, but is growing rapidly.

While the shift in career seems somewhat sudden, Sarah started consulting for high street chain New Look while at Marie Claire, which gradually evolved to a more full time position, working on collaborations with Lily Allen, Kelly Brook and Giles Deacon.

“They [New Look] just called me up and asked me to help out. I learnt a lot about retail by working and learning alongside other retailers. I’m not a trained buyer, merchandiser or designer in any way but I was able to get involved in lots of different things. It’s really exciting being on the street and seeing someone wearing something you had a hand in producing. It’s a real thrill.”

And despite leaving a fantastic career – one she misses “nothing at all” about – to set up shop during a recession, Sarah doesn’t think changing direction was ever the real risk. “I think setting up a business, pretty much under my own steam, was the huge risk, and when I started in 2010 we seemed to be coming out of recession but now we’ve gone back into one and Europe is falling apart. These are things you can never imagine happening when you set up a business, but as everybody says: ‘if you can make a business work in these times you will be well placed when things get better.’”

Mainly, she regrets not getting to know the consumer enough throughout her long stint in fashion journalism.

“I think sitting where I am now I wish when I’d worked on magazines I’d been closer to the reader. There wasn’t a

sense that you were doing things for real life human beings and thinking about what they really need. I think that’s the only way you get better at what you’re doing; you have to follow the customer.

“I literally started from scratch. It’s quite interesting because you think you know who your customer is but you don’t know for sure until you get started. Incrementally my ambition is to grow and grow and to move into other areas – I’d love to do menswear, kids-wear, my own label. But we have to move one step at a time.”

Sarah’s philosophy for riding out the recession is what she terms a “high-low” mentality. “So I started at Vogue and ended up at New Look which is pretty high-low. I went from working with Chanel couture to £11 trainers. Style-passport has expensive luxury items as well as inexpensive things. I don’t believe style is just about how much money you’ve got; it’s about how you put things together. That’s not to say I don’t love beautiful designer things, because of course I do, just like most women. But I don’t like to see it all together in one go. And that’s been quite a recession proof model.

We therefore try and sell more of the cheaper stuff which means you’ve got to shift a greater quantity to make the same money. Havaianas are the best flip-flops in the world, so why buy a designer pair for £150 when you can spend £20 and have the best? It’s that sort of mind-set that helps in an environment when many people are being cautious about what they spend.”

While Sarah may sing the praises of a £20 flip-flop, her

57

how the brand’s unique business model has contributed to its success

connoisseur 90

regulars 9

editor’s letter

70 sport

19 watches & jewellery

89 travel

Katie Charing revisits Peru, the land of deadly

47 fashion

97 food & drink

and delicious Pisco Sours, nonplussed llamas

61 health & beauty

100 the directory

and awe-inspiring Inca remains

63 interiors

103 property

Peruvian Charm

concierge comment

J

On A Charge Is the Chevrolet Volt the electric car of the

85

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6

calibre 74

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4

With increasing numbers of 30 and 40-somethings taking advantage of year-long sabbaticals, or opting to suspend their careers for an extended period of time, gap years are no longer the sole preserve of graduates.

With a nod to our dedicated Travel Issue, we plan a year-long holiday, letting you know where to go and when to get there

wardrobes and recession proof shopping

y- Gam

Rio De Janiero

Image by David Bailey

56

5. March - Chile’s Easter Island and Juan Fernandez Archipelago

bengy / Shuttersto

concierge

Carnival at Rio de Janerio

Swap the slopes for the world’s most celebrated street party. With two million people per day lining its roads, Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival is the planet’s biggest party. The four day celebration kicks off on the seventh Saturday before Easter Sunday and ends on ‘Fat Tuesday’, or Mardi-Gras. While the origins of Carnival are unclear, today the event is a chance for Rio’s samba schools to compete with fellow rivals, while visitors immerse themselves in the best of Brazilian culture.

RUNWILD M

Why? Big Dance 2012 The biennial celebration of dance is backed by the Mayor of London and Arts Council England, and will this year be expanding nationwide to form part of the Cultural olympiad, premiering a new work for thousands of dancers in Trafalgar Square on 14 July.

catwalker / Shutterstock.com

Where? Shoreditch

Who? Lucian Freud 20 July will mark the first anniversary of the death of Lucian Freud. Earlier this year, The national portrait Gallery displayed a sell-out retrospective of Freud’s drawings and paintings which has now moved to the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Texas.

Reflection (Self-portrait), 1985, private Collection © The Lucian Freud Archive. image courtesy of the national portrait Gallery

CANARY WHARF

White Heat fashion shoot, p. 50 Photography: Helen McArdle

VANTAGE

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

Holiday OF A

bloom&

LIFETIME

blossom

Take a year To discover The world; Twelve counTries in as many monThs

Ready for

J U L Y

O

U

P

Editor

What? Man Booker Prize The booker Dozen for the 2012 Man booker prize for Fiction will be announced on 25 July. Former Editor of The Times Sir peter Stothard is chair of the judging panel which also features, among others, Dinah birch, Amanda Foreman, Dan Stevens and bharat Tandon.

olympic-inspired fashion as the landmark event comes to london

R

Annabel Harrison

Shoreditch Festival 2012, which is produced by the Shoreditch Trust, will be engaging audiences from 14 July with a programme of free cultural activities, events and performances.

The Festival opens with the Hoxton Street party on 14 July.

SPORTING

G

Kate Harrison

The London 2012 olympic Games will be opened by HM The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at the olympic Stadium. The world’s largest harmonically-tuned bell will be rung, which weighs 23 tonnes and is inscribed with a quote from Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

chance

A

Lesley Ellwood

When? 27 July

fashion travel motoring interiors property

I

Editorial Director

Deputy Editor Kari Rosenberg highlights the key people, places and events in July.

Welcome the Olympics with a big hoorah from July through to September, get engrossed in a Man Booker nominee book for your summer holiday read and head down to Shoreditch to soak up the local arts (and party) scene

&

D

Editor-in-Chief

the W-list...

signs of summer in regent’s park

E

TAKE OFF embrace The suiTcase and pack wiTh panache

fashion finance motoring interiors property J u l y 2 0 1 2 i s s u e 8 4

2 0 1 2

i s s u e 2 4

Runwild Media Group Publishers of: Canary Wharf, The City Magazine, Vantage, The Kensington & Chelsea Magazine & The Mayfair Magazine

Deputy Editor Kari Rosenberg

Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds

Motoring Editor Matthew Carter

Assistant Editors

Richard Brown, Gabrielle Lane

Editorial Assistants

Olivia Sharpe, Sharna Heir

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Designers

Ashley Lewis, Sarah Connell

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Production

Hugo Wheatley

Head of Projects Ella Kilgarriff

Senior Property Manager Samantha Ratcliffe

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

7 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London, E14 4Jb T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 www.rwmg.co.uk

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

SubSCRipTionS: A free online subscription service is available for Canary Wharf. Visit the subscriptions page on our website. www.rwmg.co.uk/subscribe

Docklands_june2012wharf copy_Layout 1 18/06/2012 15:21 Page 1

The new Audi A3.

Now available to order from Docklands Audi.

Smoothly combining sporty practicality and eye-catching style, order books for the new Audi A3 are now open at Docklands Audi.

Find out more about this exciting addition to the Audi range by contacting the Docklands Audi Sales Team today on 0207 078 9593

Docklands Audi

w

64 Marsh Wall South Quay Docklands London E14 9SL 0207 078 9593 www.docklands.audi.co.uk

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

from the editor...

T

July

o my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted,” declared Bill Bryson, who holds the accolade of being the UK’s biggest selling non-fiction author since official records began. Bryson’s first travel book, The Lost Continent, chronicled a trip in his mother’s Chevy around small town America and he also wrote the travel book bestseller Notes From a Small Island.

We quite agree with Bryson’s sentiments about travel and so, in our annual Travel Issue, we have explored both the rewards and luxuries of travelling worldwide. No doubt Mr Bryson has ticked off many, if not all, of the adventures on our Holiday Calendar (p. 10); having been diving at the Great Barrier Reef and gallivanting around Thailand, seeing the Northern Lights in Finland and visiting South Africa now top my must-do list. Also likely to have experienced most of our suggestions are James and Tamara Lohan, founders of boutique hotel experts Mr & Mrs Smith (p. 14); for last-minute summer holidays, they propose Barcelona, Paris, Mauritius, Lombardy and the Bodrum Peninsula.

We particularly recommend visiting Machu Picchu in Cusco, Peru, 101 years after its ancient charm was first revealed to the world. Katie

Charing travelled in the Orient-Express train named after the American historian Hiram Bingham who discovered Machu Picchu (p. 90) through the land of deadly and delicious Pisco Sours, nonplussed llamas and awe-inspiring Inca remains, declaring it obvious why the diverse and colourful nation is enjoyed by millions of visitors every year. As Bingham himself said, “In the variety of its charms and the power of its spell, I know of no place in the world which can compare with it.”

If being at sea or in the air appeals to you more than land-locked exploration, Princess Yachts can take you wherever your heart desires in true nautical style (p. 68) and the Jet Business’ private jets allow for an ultra-comfortable and truly flexible travel schedule (p. 67). One set of timings that cannot be flexible and indeed, matter to the very millisecond, are the Olympic results and ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games, Richard Brown meets Omega President Stephen Urquhart to discuss the brand’s eight decade Olympic past, Apollo moon landings and the challenges of timing the fastest men and women on earth (p. 22). It’s the final countdown...

Annabel Harrison Editor

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5. March - Chile’s Easter Island and Juan Fernandez Archipelago

Holiday of a

lifetime

4. February

Carnival at

Rio De Jani

ero

4

5

With increasing numbers of 30 and 40-somethings taking advantage of year-long sabbaticals, or opting to suspend their careers for an extended period of time, gap years are no longer the sole preserve of graduates.

With a nod to our dedicated Travel Issue, we plan a year-long holiday, letting you know where to go and when to get there

DEC

JAN

FEB

adventure

1. December

feature

Northern lights in Greenland

Begin your adventure as you mean to go on; start by taking a tour of Greenland’s breathtaking glaciers and icebergs. Whether you take the easy option and do so by helicopter, or pit your wits against the country’s notorious terrain by foot, you’ll discover there’s more to Greenland than ice. Discover unique Inuit culture, Viking heritage, charming villages, outdoor adventure and the mesmerising phenomena that are the northern lights. Plus where better to spend Christmas than in the snowy wonderland where Father Christmas lives?

2. New Year

1. Decembe

r - Norther

n lights in G

reenland

New Year in New York City

You’ve seen the way the city celebrates the festivities in countless movies; now see them for yourself. The most obvious way to bring in the New Year may be in Times Square, but the city plays host to hundreds of exclusive parties that last through to the early hours. We suggest getting an All Access Party Pass to the Meatpacking District, where socialites, tastemakers, and A-listers mingle side-by-side.

3. January

Skiing at Jackson Hole

You’ve partied hard; now get outdoors and active. While Whistler and Aspen may be the most visited of North America’s skiing destinations, informed enthusiasts will know all about the charm, and beauty, of Wyoming’s Jackson Hole. Found at the gateway to the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, ‘The Big One’ is in a realm of its own when it comes to premier ski resorts.

4. February

Carnival at Rio de Janerio

Swap the slopes for the world’s most celebrated street party. With two million people per day lining its roads, Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival is the planet’s biggest party. The four day celebration kicks off on the seventh Saturday before Easter Sunday and ends on ‘Fat Tuesday’, or Mardi-Gras. While the origins of Carnival are unclear, today the event is a chance for Rio’s samba schools to compete with fellow rivals, while visitors immerse themselves in the best of Brazilian culture.

7. Ma

y- Ga

me sp

otting

in Na

mibia

7

5. March Chile’s Easter Island and Juan Fernandez Archipelago You’ve experienced the warmth of South America’s people in Rio, now experience the continent’s beauty, courtesy of Chile. Or more precisely, the ‘Far Flung Isles’ of Juan Fernandez Archipelago and Easter Island. Way out in the Pacific Ocean, both remote territories are classified as national parks and each has been singled out by UNESCO for special protection. Visit Ahu Tongariki for the largest number of giant Moai statues ever erected on one site, and the mighty Rano Raraku mountain to see where the Moai were quarried.

6. April

6

7. May

6. April - Freedom Day in South

MAR

Freedom Day in South Africa

The Monte Carlo of Africa, there’s a reason that Cape Town is the continent’s most visited tourist destination. Be sure to explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, one of the Seven Magnificent Botanical Gardens of the World, which is able to boast almost a half of South Africa’s flora species within its 500 hectare landscape. For an overview of the city’s other attractions, why not take a helicopter? From high in the sky you will be treated to breathtaking views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Stadium and the entire Atlantic Seaboard.

Big game spotting in Namibia’s Etosha National Park

From South Africa, head north to Namibia’s Etosha National Park. Etosha was declared a National Park in 1907 and covering an area of 22,270 square kilometres is home to 114 species of mammal, 340 species of bird and 110 species of reptile. The best time to visit is from May, the start of Namibia’s dry season, when animals are forced to congregate around waterholes, making big game spotting far more likely.

Africa

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8. June

On the trail of Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas Hopefully you’ve managed to catch a glimpse of at least three of Africa’s big five in Namibia. With the safari bug well and truly caught, take a flight to Uganda and set forth in search of one of the planet’s other most endangered species.

With only around 800 mountain gorillas left in the world, seeing them in the wild really is special. One of the best places to see them is in Uganda’s thick Bwindi rainforest, a short distance from the Rwandan border.

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Set sail around the Adriatic Sea

With Africa explored, catch some midsummer sun a little closer to home. The Croatian coast is generally considered the pearl of the Mediterranean and a sailing trip around the Adriatic Sea will quickly explain why. With well over one thousand islands, of which not even 100 are inhabited, this stretch of coast truly is one of the most beautiful reaches of shoreline in the world. Turquoise water, lonely bays, hidden coves and dramatic cliffs make the area perfect for exploring, and there’s no better way of doing so than by boat. Make for the Croatian islands of Hvar and Brac for open air festivals and parties. Set sail in style by chartering a Dubois yacht from www.duboisyachts.com.

10. August

Inner Mongolia

To avoid freezing your socks off, and turning to the nearest reindeer for warmth, visit Mongolia in the mid-summer months, where there will be just enough rainfall to keep the ground beneath your feet lush and green. Discover mysterious ruins and temples, and the juxtaposition of untouched wildlife with Manhattan style cocktail bars. Ride horses, camp with herders, cycle or hike your way around the mammoth country for a journey you’ll never forget.

11. September

Discover Ganesh Festival in India

Conveniently, Ganesh Chaturthi, the Hindu festival of Lord Ganesha, takes place in the Hindu calendar month of Bhaadrapada, usually falling between 19 August and 15 September. And while Ganesh Chaturthi itself may relate to the individual day when Lord Ganesha confers happiness to the people of earth, the festival’s celebrations last for between ten and 12 days. To absorb the festivities at their most extravagant, head for the streets of Bombay which bustle with devotees and where huge canopies are set up to house the idols of Lord Ganesha.

12. October

12

Dive Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

Considered one of greatest places to scuba, diving the Great Barrier Reef should be at the top of any marine-life enthusiasts’ must-do list. It should also be near the top of yours. Get there for October when the annual mass spawning of the reef’s 400 species of soft and hard coral takes place. You’ll also get a chance to see six species of turtle, several types of dolphin and whale, and thousands of species of fish. But beware of the killer stingers and zip up that wetsuit.

13. November

12. October Dive Australia’s Great Bar

Relax, eat, explore and party in Thailand

From the rocky landscapes in the north, through the fertile rice fields in its centre, to the beauty of the shores in the south, Thailand was made for picturepostcards and idyllic desktop screensavers. While increasing numbers of visitors have, to some extent, spoilt certain sites in the country, many paths remain less trodden. For a true city experience, we recommend Hua Hin, two hours, and a world away, from Bangkok. To get up close and personal with Thailand’s wildlife, make for the beautiful Khao Yai National Park. Depart the country at the start of December and be back home in time for Christmas. n

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OCT

NOV 13

Mr & Mrs Smith

Kari Rosenberg talks to the couple synonymous with boutique hotel gems and the brains behind Mr & Mrs Smith, James and Tamara Lohan

I

t seems fitting that boutique travel insiders, ‘Mr & Mrs Smith’ – real names Tamara and James Lohan – met while on holiday in the Balearic party-mecca of Ibiza. Both travel fiends and creators of the eponymous insider’s guide – he worked in events and PR, starting his own business at the age of 20, she followed an academic route before going into corporate marketing – their dating diaries were soon peppered with European mini-breaks and great British getaways, although they were often disappointed upon arrival.

“Mr & Mrs Smith was born out of my own frustration in trying to take Tam for weekends away and it going horribly wrong” says James over a breakfast of eggs and soldiers at the beautiful Corinthia Hotel, Embankment (their choice, of course). “It was very hard in those days to really understand what a boutique hotel was and the differences between boutique and luxury are quite definitive for us. England was full of these really chintzy country

house hotels where you would turn up and it would just feel fussy and un-loved. This was when duvets were rare – they used to have nylon sheets; the Corby trouser press in the corner; the hairdryer stuck to the wall; the horrible teas made with the UHT cartons and the ginger biscuit packets.

And you would think, ‘why am I here’? They were beautiful houses in amazing settings but had awful interiors and rubbish service.”

Fast forward a decade and James and Tamara are married with two children, and can pretty much take credit for the ‘boutique boom’, reviewing in secret all types of hotels on behalf of the savvy traveller looking for that ‘je ne sais quoi’ of holiday perfection. “We were giving insider information, so clearly we had been there” says James.

“So many guide books, which will remain nameless, are just so long-winded you need a holiday’s work just to find out where your holiday will be, and we don’t have time – I just want to know the best. It’s not about stars, diamonds

interview

El Palauet, Barcelona

Casa dell’Arte Residence, Turkey

El Palauet, Barcelona

feature

or rosettes; I’m as happy in a fabulous sawdust-floored trattoria eating pasta as I am in a Michelin star restaurant – it’s about an attitude and the experience.

“We tried to sell the idea to publishers and they all turned us down. So we just thought ‘sod it’. We raised £180,000 and re-mortgaged our house; it was a huge risk at the time but we have since taken bigger ones. Naivety is a wonderful tool for an entrepreneur because if you don’t really know what’s round the corner you don’t worry about it.

“We were the first people to put a little pub in the middle of Wales and a five-star hotel in the City in the same book.

But sometimes I do just want to go to Wales, wear my jeans and trainers, kick back and relax and have a really good pie and a pint. And sometimes it’s a special occasion and I want to push the boat out. We hit the explosion of boutique hotels becoming very cool and what everybody wanted to do.”

All thanks to one “miserable weekend away in the Lake District” and the guts to self-publish with funds from family and friends, the Mr & Mrs Smith brand will turn ten years’ old next year and is growing 40 per cent year on year, having launched in the USA as well as Australia to expand into the Asia-Pacific region.

The company took a change in direction in 2005, encompassing a booking agency as well as the beautiful coffee table books. “James and I were travelling to Brighton and walked into a hotel that had been in the first book and we hadn’t seen for two years” says Tamara. “The owner happened to be in the bar and told us we initiated 40per cent of his business. So we built the bookable website and launched essentially, as a travel agent too. We changed our business completely, which is a good thing.”

“We raised £1.9 million to grow the collection globally and to really try and capitalise on the consumer brand that we had built almost overnight from selling all these books.

We were very ambitious, and we still are. We went about building the collection globally as quickly as we could, still with the same progress and the same integrity. We’re up to 900 properties now, we booked ten nights in our first month in September 2005 and we now book around 1520,000 rooms depending on which month it is.”

And despite the economic downturn, the Lohans continue to expand, taking risks and reaping the rewards.

“Opening offices in Melbourne during the recession was a risk” says James. “So was continuing to have second offices during an even darker recession in New York. We’ve always pushed for more, so if opportunities come up, even if it’s going to cost a fortune, we have to do it by hook or by crook; it’s the right thing to do. So we continue to take risks, but in a strategic risky way. We’re not mavericks.

We’ll always try to remain entrepreneurial and nimble with all the decisions we make.

“The Australia office is now three years old and holds about 15 per cent of our business whereas America is about 10 per cent, which has given us a global operation. When London closes, America opens. We went to Asia because they’re not in recession, they’re growing. We’re expanding in the UK and the whole business is growing at pretty much just over 40 per cent year on year which is pretty good.

Asia is growing at over 100 per cent year on year.

“Every year we have seen growth in the company. It’s not that we haven’t been hit by the recession but who knows

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feature interview

what we would have done if there hadn’t been one. But we’re quite well placed because people don’t tend to give up their travel plans; they just travel a bit smarter. They watch where they’re going and won’t take so many long haul holidays and we have those perfect local collections to offer.”

“We’ve always tried to be accessible luxury. There is no question that we are put into the luxury bracket but I think that’s one of the nice things about the brand; we’ve been aspirational but accessible. We’ve never wanted any pretence to it or anything. Some of my favourite properties are in our budget boutique collection; they’re real gems and unique finds.”

With plans unfolding for ‘Smith & family’, ‘Smith & Co’ and ‘Smith & friends’, the company seems to be going from strength to strength. And the Lohans are ready to test out a whole new variety of potential holiday gems with their two children in tow. “Because we’ve got a family now we’re the perfect kind of people to go out and look” says Tamara.

From the ultimate couple’s destination to kids, companies and everything in-between Mr and Mrs Smith – and indeed Mr and Mrs Lohan – are buzzing with plans to explore and expand despite the economic downturn. While reluctant to name a favourite destination, one island meeting place still holds a particularly special place in their hearts. So it’s off to Ibiza this summer… n

oberoi, Mauritius

Le royal Monceau, paris

Mr & Mrs Lohan’s top five suMMer stays el palauet, Barcelona Enjoy the Catalan capital like a particularly well-heeled local from your opulent apartment at the Art Nouveau hotel, set on Barcelona’s most exclusive street, Passeig de Gràcia; each suite is assigned its own personal assistant.

Le royal Monceau, paris Avoid the tourists at the Champs-Élysée by staying just around the corner at this Starck-designed hotel: with its gallery and book shop, spa with Paris’s biggest indoor pool and host of gastronomic delights in its three restaurants, there’s plenty to keep you luxuriously busy.

the oberoi, Mauritius Beat the heat by heading to the southern hemisphere: Mauritius in winter is a surfers’ paradise, and this bayfront beauty – with its palm-thatched villas, two gourmet restaurants, serene spa and private beach – is a relaxation haven all year round.

Casa dell’arte residence, Bodrum peninsula Sun, sea and a spa are essential summer staples and you’ll find them all at this zodiac-inspired hotel, a magnificently art-filled and unabashedly opulent spot overlooking Bodrum’s Torba Bay .

L’albereta, Lombardy Escape to a winery wonderland in the Franciacorta region: this ivy-covered villa on a vine-covered hilltop has a superb spa, a world-renowned chef and more classic Italian glamour than a Fellini film.

To book any of these stays visit www.mrandmrssmith.com or call 0845 034 0700

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Casa dell’arte residence, turkey

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EXCLUSIVE READERS OFFER mention ‘Canary Wharf’ to qualify

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interview jewellery men’s trend

omEga prEsidEnt club tropicana .......... patriotic panachE

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Equation of timE

Friend of Abraham-Louis Breguet and favoured

by Napoleon Bonaparte, John Arnold’s creations changed seafaring forever.

250 years later, Arnold & Son pays homage to the legendary watchmaker

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s its name suggests, Arnold & Son’s Hornet World Timer Skeleton is both a skeleton watch and world timer. As such, it profits from rolling into one, two watches whose popularity has exploded in recent times.

More than that, though, what sets this watch apart is its unique combination of three unusual functions: the equation of time, a multiple timezone display and a double-disc big date display.

Modern day embodiments of John Arnold’s original timepieces – the 18th century watchmaker who, in dedicating his life to measuring longitude,

gave the world its first chronometer – each Arnold & Son watch boasts its own unique in-house movement, complete with some of the industry’s most sophisticated complications. The complexity of this timepiece, housed in a stainless steel case measuring 47 millimetres and limited to just 50 pieces, is provided by six central hands and an advanced mechanism that allows it to display the mean solar time of any location according to its longitude. It can also display three time zones, including half and quarter hours, useful if you find yourself travelling in places like India and the Pacific.

Each will cost the discerning traveller £16,800. n

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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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TURNING BACK TIME The Royal Arcade’s Watch Club has been dealing in vintage watches since 1981. Senior partner Danny Pizzigoni tells us which watches to look out for

watch

news

What’s the appeal of vintage watches?

During WWI, soldiers crudely adapted their cumbersome pocket watches for the wrist and it is my opinion that the greatest wristwatches ever created were made between 1940 and 1975. It was a ground-breaking time in wristwatch history; everything was innovative, there was no precedent. Modern watches are simply variations, sometimes exact copies, of these vintage originals.

Which brands typically hold their value the best?

Rolex and Patek Philippe are the obvious contenders. $1 million for a perpetual calendar PP won’t even make the Evening Standard. Rare vintage sport Rolex, especially the likes of Comex, Military Subs, Paul Newman Daytonas, and technical watches like a moon phase, or triple calendar, are all sound investments.

Early Italian divers’ Panerais are also worth a mention, extremely rare and incredibly valuable.

BY ROYAL APPROVAL Since 1929, Jaeger-LeCoultre has held the world record for producing the smallest mechanical watch movement. The Calibre 101 consists of 98 tiny parts that together weigh barely a gram; it also boasts the accolade of being the movement inside the timepiece Her Majesty The Queen wore to her coronation.

60 years on, the brand is celebrating the Diamond Jubilee by creating a special limited engraved edition of its iconic Reverso watch.

Personalised with the logo of the Diamond Jubilee Pageant and a commemorative message, the Grande Reverso Ultra Thin will be limited to six pieces in a men’s version and six in a ladies’ version. The 12 pieces follow the 101 jewellery timepiece Jaeger-LeCoultre CEO Jérôme Lambert presented to Her Majesty last month. www.jaeger-lecoultre.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 most complex pilot’s watches ever built, IWC’s 5029 boasts a perpetual calendar with four-digit year display, together with date, day, month and moon phase display” 5029 BIG PILOT, £29,500, IWC AVAILABLE AT DAVID M ROBINSON, JUBILEE PLACE, CANARY WHARF

What’s important to look for in a vintage watch?

Condition and provenance. Any aesthetic parts that have been changed during its life and any documentation lost during a house move affects the price and rarity.

I had the chance to buy a perfect 1958 ‘lightning hand’ Milgauss 13 years ago, failed and haven’t stopped thinking about it ever since.

What’s the most exciting watch you’ve ever sold?

A pink gold Patek Philippe perpetual calendar with minute repeater. I bought it from Prince Jefri of Brunei, and sold it to a very dear friend of mine. He’d been nagging me to sell it to him for years, and eventually he got his way.

Which brands do you find are the most popular?

Rolex, Patek Philippe, Panerai, Audemars Piguet, IWC and JLC. We seem to do very well with Breguet also. Lange & Söhne are strong and so too is Cartier. www.watchclub.com

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Perfect TIMING In the month before London hosts the 2012 Olympic Games, Richard Brown meets Omega President Stephen Urquhart to discuss the brand’s impressive eight decade Olympic past, Apollo moon landings and the challenges of timing the fastest men and women on earth

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hings didn’t quite go to plan for Omega when it launched the Olympic Countdown timer 18 months ago. A day after the 6.5 metre high clock was unveiled, amongst a fanfare of sparklers, fireworks and flashlight photography, it broke. Cue stifled media amusement and anxious looks of embarrassment between LOCOG, Lord Coe and the Official Timekeeper of the Games.

Fortunately for Omega, its track record at the world’s greatest sporting event isn’t littered with similar moments of awkwardness. In fact, since it became the first company to be entrusted with keeping the time within all disciplines at the Los Angeles Games in 1932, Omega has been instrumental in defining, and then redefining, the way sport has been timed, recorded and verified.

In the 80 years, and 24 Games, since it supplied Los Angeles with 30 high precision chronographs to record its races, Omega has bequeathed the world its first independent, portable and water-resistant photoelectric cell (1945), the first photofinish camera (1949), the first electronic group timing devices (1952), and swimming’s first touch-sensitive contact pads (1967) – instruments that have proved vital in separating the winners from the losers as the skill margins between competitors has continually narrowed, something evidenced in the pool four years ago.

As Beijing 100-metre Butterfly Final reached its dramatic conclusion, to the eyes of the stadium, and to the eyes of millions more glued to television screens across the world, the race looked to have been tied. It was left to Omega’s high-speed video cameras to verify the results. They confirmed that Michael Phelps had beaten Milorad Cavic into silver place… by a single 100th of a second.

When the 2012 Olympics roll into town at the end of this month, they will hold a special significance for the Swiss watch brand. It was in 1948 that London last hosted the Games and it was in that year that Omega’s newlyintroduced photoelectric cells and race finish photofinish camera changed the way athletes were timed. The sense of history linking the city to the watch brand is something Omega President Stephen Urquhart admits the company is happy to draw upon.

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“When the Games were last contested here, Omega was again Official Timekeeper and we’ve been contrasting these two Olympic Games in some of our marketing materials.

We’ve actually been focusing more on our connection to London 1948 than on the 80th anniversary of the Los Angeles 1932 Olympic Games. It’s been enjoyable to look back at 1948 and what we have described as ‘the birth of modern timekeeping’.”

The birth of Omega’s pioneering equipment happened to coincide with the birth of a watch that would cement the watchmaker’s reputation as one of the industry’s heavyweights. Dating back to 1932 – when Omega had patented an innovative design for a unique diving watch – it had taken the Seamaster more than a decade to jump from the drawing board to the production line. Part of Omega’s attempt to beat Rolex to the shops with the first water resistant wristwatch – which it did by six years – the Seamaster was not only technically groundbreaking but it was also sleek, slender and good-looking enough to appeal to a market who had no intention of taking it anywhere near water.

To commemorate the anniversary of a watch that remains one of the company’s best sellers, Omega has unveiled the Seamaster 1948 Co-Axial ‘London 2012’. “We’ve created a watch that has been inspired by its [the original Seamaster’s] design but which is powered by our exclusive Co-Axial technology,” explains Mr Urquhart. “We also have posters that recall the 1948 100-metre sprint and the photoelectric cells and photofinish images that were introduced in that year.” Using Omega’s Caliber 2202 movement, the Seamaster ‘London 2012’ features an 18-carat gold medallion mounted on its back and, for obvious reasons, is limited to 1,948 pieces.

As keen as Omega is to highlight its association with the Olympic Games – as well as with the worlds of golf, sailing, swimming and athletics, all of which Mr Urquhart describes as a “natural fit” for the brand – there’s one footnote in the company’s history that makes it the envy of every other watch manufacturer: Omega’s Speedmaster was the first timepiece to make it to the moon. “It is an incredibly important story for us,” says Urquhart.

“Particularly because, when the Speedmaster was chosen for the now-famous tests, we knew nothing about it. The Speedmasters that became the only chronographs to meet the challenge were exactly the same as those available at retailers.” What’s more, the Speedmaster was the only piece of equipment used for every Apollo mission that required absolutely no

modification during the testing process.

“While we’re obviously proud of the six lunar landings, the story that really mattered was the fact that in 1964 and 1965 the Speedmaster survived the most rigorous testing ever devised for watches.” It was publically, and officially, an endorsement that no amount of money could have bought. “It’s worth noting that half a century after a Speedmaster was first worn in space, they are essentially unchanged today.”

Omega’s achievement of sending the first timepiece to the moon wouldn’t be the only occasion the company turned the watch world green. Exactly 30 years later, Omega had designed an escapement that had, until then, eluded all other manufacturers. “In 1894, the company created a mechanical watch calibre that revolutionised the way the Swiss watch industry made watches [the Omega],” explains Urquhart.

“Then, in 1999, we launched the first series-produced watch to be equipped with a Co-Axial escapement… Like the Omega movement more than a century earlier, Co-Axial technology signalled a revolution in mechanical watch making.”

Urquhart isn’t being hyperbolic; the Co-Axial is the first practical new watch escapement to be invented in some 250 years. Differing from the traditional Swiss lever escapement by way of a balance roller carrying a pallet and an impulse pin, an anchor with three pallets, and a three-level coaxial escapement wheel, Omega’s movement really did change the way people thought about making watches.

For Urquhart, reducing the amount of friction within a wristwatch and, in doing so, improving the precision of that watch, has been something of a career highlight. “It has been a privilege to be here as our Co-Axial story has unfolded. It has played an essential role in restoring Omega to its position as one of the world’s leading watchmakers.”

The close of Danny Boyle’s Opening Ceremony will mark the beginning of Omega’s 25th Olympic Games. Over a six week period the company’s timekeepers will be entrusted with the task of recording, displaying and distributing the results of 37 simultaneous world championships. While Urquhart admits that every Games bring its own logistic and technical challenges, in London’s case because of a rich mix of new and historic venues, Omega’s President shows no signs of being daunted by the task ahead. “At the end of the day, our challenge remains what it has always been: to deliver the best possible timekeeping service to the IOC, the federations and the athletes.” n Omega watches are available from David M Robinson in Jubilee Place or visit www.omegawatches.com

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All images courtesy of Omega

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Patriotic

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PANACHE From the Diamond Jubilee to golds at the Games, let the national celebrations continue with red, white and blue

8 7 1 Natural Wheat Boater Hat, £85, Stetson, available at the Hat Gallery M/V, 32-34 Earl’s Court Road 2 Image courtesy of Hackett 3 Byrnes Slim Striped Silk Tie, £50, J. Crew, www.mrporter.com 4 Skull and Stripe Socks, £18, Corgi, www.corgihosiery.co.uk 5 Parsons 1053 Red Havana Sunglasses, £216, Oliver Peoples, available David Clulow, Cabot Place 6 Yacht Master II, £29,100, Rolex available at David M Robinson, Jubilee Place 7 Navy Canvas Fly Fisher Messenger Bag, £139, Chapman Bags, www.my-wardrobe.com 8 Humphrey Bogart Rollerball and Fountain Pen, £1,640 S.T. Dupont, available at Harrods 9 Jubilee Work Round Cufflinks, £55, Hackett, Cabot Place 10 Toasts and Tributes Hardcover Book, £35, Brooks Brothers, www.mrporter.com

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Swiss movement, English heart

C9 HARRISON AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH LIMITED EDITION

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.

E XC LU S I V E LY AVA I L A B L E AT

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28/05/2012 15:43

CONTESSA To own a rare Argyle pink diamond is to own a truly magnificent heirloom.

Contessa, beautifully handcrafted in Platinum and 18ct Rose Gold, features an exquisite combination of stunning craftsmanship and the rarest of Australian Argyle pink diamonds.

Simply, they are the rarest diamonds in the world and are revered for their unique provenance and intrinsic beauty.

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

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jewellery

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jewellery

news ETERNAL LOVE The exciting launch of Molly B Couture jewellery took place this June as part of London Jewellery Week 2012. The feminine collections are made up of three core themes: Innes, Signature Bow and Love Knot. We love the simple beauty, delicacy and timelessness of the Love Knot collection, available in either nine-carat gold or sterling silver.

Other collections within the Molly B couture portfolio include Ribbon, Paradise and Strand.

IN FLIES THE DODO Although the dodo has been extinct for centuries, it’s alive and kicking in Sloane Square at the luxury Italian jewellery brand’s flagship store which is well worth a visit. Dodo has already achieved worldwide acclaim, having been awarded the Best Jewellery Flagship Store prize at the Andrea Palladio International Jewellery Awards this May. Designed by Paola Navone,

the building is contemporary and sophisticated with a natural twist. Andrea Morante, CEO of the Pomellato Group, commented: “London has become a truly international city and perhaps one of the best platforms in the world from where to commence a serious global expansion”.

WWW.MOLLYBROWNLONDON.COM/ COUTURE

www.dodo.it

Cutting Edge Caroline Scheufele, Co-President and Artistic Director of Chopard, discusses how the people she has met at Cannes Fim Festival over the past 15 years were the inspiration behind the Red Carpet Collection 2012

“It is these privileged relations with outstanding personalities that have made me wish to create original and unique models that are very different from each other, in order to ensure that each and every woman will find the adornment that will suit her to perfection” 18-CARAT WHITE AND ROSE GOLD NECKLACE SET WITH A PEAR-SHAPED GREEN TOURMALINE AND MATCHING EARRINGS; APPLE RING IN 18-CARAT WHITE GOLD SET WITH TZAVORITES AND BROWN DIAMONDS ALL POA, WWW.CHOPARD.COM

REACH FOR THE STARS Montblanc has revealed an extension to its jewel-encrusted 4810 Collection of ladies’ fine jewellery, inspired by its celebrated, and iconic, star. The Montblanc 4810 Star Pavé Collection features six new pieces which reflect the desire of the modern woman for striking designs that are simultaneously easy to wear. These include dainty ear studs in diamondpave white or pink gold, a diamondfilled star on a chain necklace, and an amulet bracelet decorated with a tiny diamond-pave star. Prices range from £1,000 to £3,000.

MONTBLANC, CANADA PLACE WWW.MONTBLANC.CO.UK

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Resin and crystal jewellery is met with an explosion of citrus colours this summer; complement your beach attire with statement accessories in burnt orange, neon yellow and lime green

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1 Bubble 18-carat gold-plated resin necklace, £130, J Crew, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 2 Set of two brass and resin bangles, £310, Marni, www.marni.com 3 Gold-plated Swarovski crystal necklace, £1,250, Roberto Cavalli, www.robertocavalli.com 4 Apricot horizontal striped bangle, £250, Marni, as before 5 Metal drop earrings, £160, Oscar de La Renta www.oscardelarenta.com 6 Silver-plated turquoise cone bracelet, £640, Eddie Borgo, www.eddieborgo.com 7 Fauvé hand-painted Swarovski crystal necklace, £805 Tom Binns, www.tombinnsdesign.com 8 22-carat gold-plated resin and crystal ring, £120, Kenneth Jay Lane, www.NET-A-PORTER.com 9 Apricot resin earrings, £308 Marni, as before 10 Mother-of-pearl ‘Peace’ charm bracelet, £95, Aurélie Bidermann, www.aureliebidermann.com

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NEWS Sports ‘Congestion-Buster’ Launched Canary Wharf Group is launching a new free fitness challenge to help alleviate congestion on public transport and the roads this summer, while raising money for charity and improving sports participation.

The Group, in conjunction with GE and British Triathlon, is introducing the Canary Wharf Triathlon Challenge, a free online fitness programme that allows people to log their weekly running, cycling or swimming distances online at www.canarywharftrichallenge.co.uk.

The Challenge runs until 19 August, with participants entering weekly prize draws and receiving tips and encouragement from elite coaches and athletes. Live online leader boards for individuals, companies and teams within companies aim to draw on the competitive instincts of London’s amateur athletes.

Canary Wharf Group will donate 2p for every kilometre logged to the Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre, a local Tower Hamlets charity which provides affordable access to outdoor pursuits and sporting facilities for young people in Tower Hamlets.

London’s latest landmark secures first letting two years ahead of completion Land Securities and Canary Wharf Group have secured the first tenant for 20 Fenchurch Street, EC3 which is set to become one of London’s landmark buildings.

Insurance provider Markel International has taken 51,000 sq ft across floors 26 and 27 on a 20 year term, two years ahead of the building’s completion. Markel plans to move into the building around the fourth quarter of 2014 – when few other developments in London are expected to be delivered.

Commenting on the move, William Stovin, President and Chief Operating Officer of Markel International, said: “We have been at our current address for 11 years and now have the opportunity to upgrade to one of the best developments in the City.

Clifford Chance Claim Cycling Honours International legal firm Clifford Chance recently won the Canary Wharf Corporate Grand Prix, beating teams from around Canary Wharf in a pro-am cycling race around the streets of the famous business and shopping district.

The race was staged ahead of the Halfords Tour Series race at Canary Wharf, which saw some of the UK’s best cyclists battling it out in an action-packed race.

The professional race win was claimed by Australian Zak Dempster, with Endura taking the team title on the evening.

2012 Handbag charms, from £45

2012 Union Jack Ruthenium Dog Tag, £150

2012 Team GB Band, £20

Keri-anne Payne

The Missing Links

2012 Union Jack Heart Studs, £55

CELEBRATE ALL THAT IS BEST ABOUT BRITAIN WITH THE LATEST COLLECTION FROM LINKS OF LONDON, CREATORS OF THE OFFICIAL JEWELLERY COLLECTION OF LONDON 2012, AVAILABLE IN THE JUBILEE PLACE STORE, CANARY WHARF With over 200 participating nations and 10.8 million tickets, London is preparing to host the greatest sporting event on earth. As a British brand, born in 2012 Sweetie Bracelet London and built on the art of giving, Links of London Blue Bead, £150 is proud to offer jewellery and gifts that create connections between people. With its engaging and welcoming approach to jewellery, it provides you with the chance to purchase and create your own individual memories of this very special event.

Driven by the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect, and the Paralympic values of courage, determination, equality and inspiration, together Links of London and the London 2012 Games have the opportunity to show the rest of the world the vibrancy, fortitude, creativity and generosity of the UK, and inspire the next generation of athletes and sporting enthusiasts. The collection, which is available at their Canary Wharf store in Jubilee Place, also includes the must-have item of the London 2012 Games – the Team GB band. Retailing at £20, it’s the perfect memento and way to show your pride for Team GB. Purchase five of these fantastic bands for the price of four while stocks last.

Christian Malcolm

Visit Links of London, Jubilee Place store in Canary Wharf, to discover more about the official collection.

READER OFFER Purchase an item from the London 2012 collection throughout July and be entered into Links of London’s exclusive prize draw to win either a beautiful Entwine Necklace, or set of London 2012 Cufflinks!

2012 Circle Logo Cufflinks, £95

SHOPPING Baseball Cap, £30 Hugo Boss, Cabot Place Gunnel Bag, £69 Ted Baker, Canada Place

Track Capri, £75 Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place Union Jack Fine Chocolate Selection, £22 Charbonnel et Walker, Cabot Place

Adidas Originals Team GB T-Shirt, £25 JD Sports, Canada Place

TEAM London 2012 Mini Torch, £9.99 Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home Canada Place

SPIRIT

WHETHER YOU ARE PLAYING SPORT OR WATCHING IT THIS

SUMMER, THE CANARY WHARF STORES INCLUDING THE LONDON 2012 SHOP IN JUBILEE PLACE, HAVE EVERYTHING YOU’LL NEED

Ejecta Vest, £48 Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place

TO SUPPORT TEAM GB Union Jack Keyring £6 The London 2012 Shop Jubilee Place

Team GB Linen Cushion, £46 Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home Canada Place

Triple Jump Short, £45 Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place Cufflinks, £170 Alfred Dunhill, Cabot Place

Union Jack Calf Holdall, £595 Aspinal of London, Cabot Place K-Swiss K-Ona Shoes, £79.99 Runners Need, Churchill Place

Shaun Leane Tusk bangles from £195 Charles Fish, Cabot Place

A GREAT BRITISH SUMMER AS THE WORLD’S EYES TURN TOWARDS LONDON, CROWDS WILL BE HEADING TO CANARY WHARF TO SOAK UP THE ATMOSPHERE AND GET IN ON ALL THE PATRIOTIC ACTION Connoisseurs in whiskey, oysters, cigars and Champagne will enjoy relaxing on Boisdale of Canary Wharf’s spacious terrace; soak up the cool Scottish vibe and take in the views of the capital’s cityscape. If you’re planning a party, the menu features the best of British ingredients.

Opt for mini roast haggis, mouth-watering grilled rack of Blackface lamb, or a divine 28 day dry-aged Aberdeenshire fillet of beef.

For a delicious taste of the Far East, Roka offers mouth-watering sushi and signature dishes from the Robata grill while you enjoy the stunning vistas of Canada Square Park from the terrace.

Experience the exquisite summer ‘Best of British menu’ and active alfresco Nyetimber terrace overlooking Canada Square Park at Plateau Restaurant, Bar & Grill and sample the highest quality British produce on head chef Allan Pickett’s fantastic tasting menu.

Start with smoked salmon followed by Hereford beef, finished off with some strawberries and cream. Plateau’s ‘Best of British’ festival features Nyetimber English wine tasting and classic cocktail master classes from the British Classics Collection. Other events include an art exhibition and charity dinner with some of the country’s most exciting chefs.

Situated in The Park Pavilion, The Parlour’s all-day kitchen is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. Choose from a selection of refreshing cocktails and signature wines from its impressive drinks list while you watch the world go by. And despite the slightly wet summer, nobody does picnics like the British; The Parlour’s picnic hampers are perfect whether you want to enjoy a lazy lunch on a

Boisdale of Canary Wharf, Cabot Place

Roka, The Park Pavilion

The Park Pavilion

SHOPPING patch of green, or are on your way to a festival, concert or road trip.

You can purchase a picnic hamper at the weekend and receive two complimentary skinny or foraged cocktails to takeaway, available on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 7pm. And don’t miss the alfresco BBQ for juicy succulent burgers and grilled London sausage butties.

For a true taste of Britain, nowehre provides home-grown favourites like Canteen. Choose between fish and chips, Lancashire hotpot or Roast beef and Yorkshire Pudding.

Spoil your true love with a special romantic dinner or treat friends to Le Relais de Venise L’Entrecôte. The newly opened restaurant offers a wonderfully modest fixed price formula of green salad with walnuts, followed by sumptuous steak and frites with a delicious sauce. Spend your evening with a glass of wine by the water’s edge.

Sample Asturian classics at Iberica Canary Wharf from the new summer menu including golden brown Iberica ham croquettes and sweet caramelised rice pudding.

If it’s a lively and hip atmosphere you are after, Rocket Restaurant & Bar boasts a large range of cocktails, wines, beers and Champagnes. Enjoy the buzz of the balcony whilst indulging in fine Mediterranean fare. Get there before 6pm for two for one cocktails or enjoy a complimentary bottle of Prosecco when you and a guest enjoy a late lunch or early dinner.

Elsewhere, the family-friendly Jamie’s Italian is infused with National gastro treasure Jamie Oliver’s enthusiastic take on the diversity of Italian food and culture. Situated in Churchill Place, Jamie’s Italian presents a stunning summer menu including whole sea bass farmed in the cold waters of Anglesey and British Lamb Spiedini.

Enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco on Jamie to celebrate the launch of his new spring summer menu.

Whatever the occasion, whatever your taste, indulge in Canary Wharf’s alfresco offerings this summer; morning, noon or night.

For a full list of Canary Wharf Bars and Restaurants please visit www.canarywharf.com

Jamie’s Italian, Churchill Place

Iberica Canary Wharf, Cabot Square

Picnic Hamper, The Parlour

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. canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

EVENTS

THE SUNSHINE SEASON HEAD OUTSIDE TO ENJOY BIG SCREENS, MUSIC, SPORTS, FOOD AND DRINK IN CANARY WHARF THIS SUMMER

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. From fast-paced F1 Grand Prix to the British Open Golf Championship, plus the Wimbledon tennis, the Summer Screens make for a perfect setting for a picnic in the sunshine or an alfresco drink at one of the Park Pavilion bars or restaurants.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Until 8 July Wimbledon 6 – 8 July F1 British Grand Prix 19 – 22 July British Open Golf Championship Until Friday 9 September Daily Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf FREE

CITY OF LONDON FESTIVAL GOLDEN STREET @ CANARY WHARF PIANOS Jamaican jazz, French pop and Afro-Brazilian rhythms come together at Canary Wharf as the City of London Festival marks its 50th anniversary with a suitably celebratory and spectacular line up featuring Jazz Jamaica with Myrna Hague, on Friday, Santa Macairo Orkestar, L and the KKC Orchesra on Saturday and Saravah Soul take to the stage on Sunday before the weekend is wrapped up by Aurora Orchestra. colf.org

Play Me, I’m Yours street pianos return to Canary Wharf this summer giving everyone the chance to come along and play.

Fifty pianos decorated in gold to celebrate the City of London Festival’s 50th anniversary have been placed throughout London, three of them at Canary Wharf. Look out for pop up dance duets from the Sydney Dance Company or feel free to spend time tinkling the ivories as and when the mood takes you. colf.org

Friday 13 – Sunday 15 July Friday 7 - 9pm / Saturday 1.30 - 7pm / Sunday 12 – 2.45pm Canada Square Park FREE

Until Friday 13 July Daily Reuters Plaza, Jubilee Park and Wren Landing FREE

CANSTRUCTION® AT CANARY WHARF Canstruction®, an international design competition making its London debut at Canary Wharf, sees teams of professional designers, architects and engineers take on the challenge of creating giant sculptures using only cans of food and their imagination.

Displayed until 7 July, these spectacular can-sculptures showcase the designers’ skill and creative flair with this alternative use of over 40,000 cans of food. And the story doesn’t end there; every can from each sculpture will be collected at the end of the exhibition by food charity FareShare, who will redistribute them to local communities feeding over 6,000 people with over 35,000 meals.

Canstruction® is organised under the auspices of the Society for Design Administration®.

For full terms and conditions visit canarywharf.com Until Saturday 7 July Daily Lobby, One Canada Square & Throughout Shopping Malls, Canary Wharf FREE

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD - TWITTER COMPETITION Do you have a favourite can-sculpture? Then vote for it in the People’s Choice Award Twitter Competition and you could win a £100 Canary Wharf Gift Card. Follow @yourcanarywharf and tweet us a picture of your favourite Canstruction® sculpture to enter.

PING! Five full size table tennis tables in Jubilee Place Mall, and one in The Parlour in The Park Pavilion, invite you to play, get some tips from qualified coaches or watch the professional’s battle it out in showcase matches.

Ping! is part of the London’s Street Ping Pong Project, where for one month tables will spring up across the capital’s squares, landmarks and train stations for all to enjoy.

For those of you with a more competitive edge why not bring together a group of your colleagues and enter the Canary Wharf Ping! Championships. A team of five players can compete for ultimate table tennis bragging rights. Matches will be held every day between 6-7pm from Friday 13 to Friday 20 July. Email arts&events@ canarywharf.com for further information or to enter a team.

Friday 13 – Sunday 22 July Monday – Friday 11am – 5.30pm / Saturday 10am – 6pm / Sunday 12 – 6pm Jubilee Place Mall, Canary Wharf FREE

canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

EVENTS BP Summer Big Screens: Metamorphosis: Titian 2012 Part of the BP Summer Big Screens series live from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden to the screen in Canada Square Park, this truly extraordinary performance presents The Royal Ballet’s new work inspired by three Titian paintings, in collaboration with the National Gallery, London. Choreographers including Wayne McGregor and Christopher Wheeldon, and artists including Chris Ofili and Mark Wallinger, plus musicians and poets will all come together to create this exciting new spectacle as part of the London 2012 Festival. roh. org.uk/bpbigscreens Monday 16 July 7.30pm (coverage from 7pm) Canada Square Park FREE

TWILIGHT DELIGHTS: BRING A PICNIC, SOME FRIENDS AND GET INTO THE SPIRIT OF SUMMER WITH TWILIGHT DELIGHTS

THE BOISDALE BIG BAND PRESENTS VIVA LAS VEGAS WITH FRANK & ELVIS Celebrate the fourth of July in style as we pay tribute to American legends, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Stephen Triffitt and Suspiciously Elvis are two incredible entertainers who capture the sound and look of the original stars to an uncanny degree.

Backed by the seventeen piece Boisdale Big Band, join us as we recreate the glamour of Las Vegas in its heyday.

Wednesday 4 July 7pm Canada Square Park FREE

SUMMER NIGHTS

THE ROYAL PHILHARMONIC CONCERT ORCHESTRA PERFORMS THE BEST OF BRITISH

Stars of the West End are joined by a fantastic eight piece band for a party evening of feel-good songs and music from Dirty Dancing, Mamma Mia, Saturday Night Fever, Footloose, Fame, Grease, Thriller Live and many more.

This fabulous evening features a celebration of all things British including classic favourites The Dambusters March and the theme from Chariots of Fire plus a 50th anniversary tribute to the iconic music of the James Bond films!.

Wednesday 18 July 7pm Canada Square Park FREE

Wednesday 11 July 7pm Canada Square Park FREE

Space at outdoor events is unreserved and sometimes limited. Portable furniture, glass bottles or glasses are not permitted in Canada Square Park For more information visit canarywharf.com

canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

ART VISUAL ARTS TERESA WITS PRESENTS SPORTING CHAMPIONS Displayed for the first time at Canary Wharf, renowned artist Teresa Witz exhibits life-size portraits of some of Great Britain’s most inspiring and determined sporting champions.

Canary Wharf celebrates this summer of sport with a specially commissioned installation of nine lifesize portraits including Vanessa Raw, David Weir, Perri Shakes-Drayton and Jeanette Kwakye.

From the outdoor exhibition, find head and shoulder portraits of sporting champions in the Canada Place Mall’s Window Gallery.

A member of the BT Art of Sport Initiative, Teresa is also a resident exhibiting artist at Heathrow’s Terminal Five Expo Fine Art Gallery. It is through this initiative that she had the opportunity to meet and capture in paint these inspiring athletes who represent a wealth of sporting achievements. Sheer dedication and discipline has made them become champions of sport, and in Teresa’s portraits these attributes shine through. teresawitz.co.uk 23 July – 9 September Jubilee Park, Canary Wharf 30 July – 24 August Canada Walk Window Gallery, Canada Place Mall FREE

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

KATE WOOD

Kate’s distinctive beaded jewellery is informed by the natural world, tiny overlooked details, beautiful gemstones and a love of simple forms, aged finishes and vintage glamour. Each piece is made up of hundreds of tiny beads, attached to a handmade silver pin, and meticulously wrapped and ‘woven’ onto chains. katewoodjewellery.com

WE ARE TIME: PAST AND FUTURE WORKS BY EDWARD ALLINGTON Wit and irony are as central to Edward Allington’s sculptures as are classical themes and motifs, which he employs in new and often curious contexts.

Time, history and the sense of how we are in an evolving world are also recurrent themes. In this exhibition the diversity found in his sculpture is paramount. His interest in the classical world of Greece and Rome shines through in references to the ancient artifacts and architectural details that he includes in his work.

Edward Allington is Professor, Director of Studies, Graduate Programmes; GraduateTutor and Head of Graduate Sculpture at the Slade School of Fine Art, University College, London. edwardallington.net 16 July – 14 September Lobby, One Canada Square FREE

LUCIE CONOLEY

‘The Mips’ (The Most Important Places) are bespoke illustrated street maps, painted in acrylic on canvas. Lucie constructs ‘The Mips’ using her own style and knowledge of the areas she visits. lucieconoley.com

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

STAY IMPRESSED. The brand-new Holiday Inn London – Commercial Road hosts a dedicated Academy conference centre, housing state-of-the-art audio and visual equipment and accommodating up to 125 delegates. With over 130 bedrooms, we offer convenience and comfort to ensure you STAY IMPRESSED. Perfectly located close to London City Airport, Canary Wharf and the City, welcome to the ideal business destination.

Taking enquiries from July onwards, contact info.hicommercialroad@ihg.com visit hilondoncommercialroadhotel.co.uk Holiday Inn London – Commercial Road Central Reservations 0800 40 50 60

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Psychedelic Mania

La Perla’s latest swimwear collection is inspired by Pop Art, the bold shapes of the famous Mondrian dress and Andy Warhol’s psychedelic flowers

W

ith the passing of each decade since launching in the 1950s, the luxurious Italian lingerie, nightwear and swimwear brand La Perla has continued to reinvent itself.

In the 60s, the bold flower prints were imagined through coloured lingerie and woven, chequered and flowered prints. In the 80s, La Perla launched its first wide-shouldered body made entirely of elastic lace, a prelude of the supposed “under-jacket”.

For 2012, La Perla has gone back to its

roots and reawakened the iconic pop flowers of Andy Warhol through contemporary beachwear. Swimsuits are defined with prints in varying shades of large psychedelic flowers, and accentuated with ruffles and drapes. Being not simply the decade of Pop, but the era of celebrity culture, fresh designs were taken from what the most glamorous donned on the beach.

The floral watercolour inspiration has thus been reinterpreted in modern lightweight Lycra with feminine pleating and small tassels. n www.laperla.com

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fashion

concierge

women’s fashion

news

HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR Stay safe Hollywood style with a gorgeous wide-brimmed hat. A jetset essential for any exotic escape, the white colour will reflect the sizzling rays leaving you cool, calm and collected. Team with round John Lennon style sunglasses and an ice-cold Margarita to achieve maximum relaxation; sit back, unwind and enjoy a much-needed break. For small to heart-shaped faces, opt for a cowboy shape or Panama-style boater in either white or natural beige straw. Find all your beach essentials at the goregous Melissa Odabash, from colourful cover-ups to bright poolside accessories.

JEMIMA WIDE-BRIMMED HAT, £105, WWW.ODABASH.COM

QUOTE OF THE MONTH MOST WANTED: SEASIDE CHIC If you plan to support Team GB from the sunnier climes of St.Tropez, sport red white and blue for the ultimate in British seaside chic. Go 50’s retro with Miu Miu’s adorable bow-embellished red halter-neck bikini with scalloped trim, ooze classic glamour in an iconic Missoni crochet-knit

MUsT-haVe ITeM: bURbeRRy bag This beautiful artisan textured raffia tote bag from Burberry takes the classic beach basket to a whole new level. Trimmed with alligator skin and individually plaited raffia ribbons it is threaded through with a gorgeous leather belt.

Available in a range of colours, this neutral hue will take you through from early spring to autumn; perfect for both work and play. Adorned with a number of pockets and pouches you can keep your sun-cream close to hand for any unexpected bright spells.

ALLIGATOR RAFFIA BURBERRY WHIPSTITCH BAG, £12,000 WWW.BURBERRY.COM

number with oh-so feminine ruffles or opt for an understated elegant look with Chloé’s ultra-girlie gold-trimmed ivory two-piece. Pair with a simple sheer cover up and chunky statement ring. Suntan not included.

She wore an itsy bitsy teeny weeny yellow polka dot bikini

BIKINIS FROM £145, WWW.NETAPORTER.COM

BRIAN HYLAND

newsflash

TRenD: sUMMeR shaDes

Master of design Óscar de la Renta will celebrate his 80th birthday on 22 July this year. The legendary fashion designer, who was born in the Dominican Republic, became internationally known in the 1960s for styling Jacqueline Kennedy. The man synonymous with red carpet glamour was named the Council of Fashion Designers Designer of the Year twice in 2000 and 2007 and is a twotime winner of the American Fashion Critics Award.

Create your own signature summer look with a pair of standout shades. The only accessory you need this season, these Thierry Lasry frames come in a range of over-sized shapes and colours from brown tortoiseshell to clear Perspex. Whether beside the seaside or strutting around London town, these super-cool sunglasses will add a modern urban edge to any ensemble; team with a crochet kaftan and oversized hat for instant Riviera style or lightweight jacket and free flowing maxi skirt to prepare for the the fickle British forecast.

THIERRY LASRY, FROM £285 WWW.MATCHESFASHION.COM

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fashion

concierge

men’s fashion

news JET SET GENT It’s in the smaller detail that sophistication lies. And when it comes to travel accessories, Aspinal has got sophistication down to a tee. In whichever airport you find yourself, flourish your tickets from its classic travel wallet and announce that you travel in style. Aspinal’s Deluxe Plain Travel Collection includes two luggage tags, a deluxe passport cover and the classic travel wallet. The collection comes in ten colours so you can coordinate with your luggage to complete the jet-set Gentlemen look.

SEASON OF SPORT In time for the Games, CH Carolina Herrera has announced it will be launching a sporting fashion capsule collection. CH MEN SPORT is inspired by the lifestyle of a young and free-spirited man, who is willing to accept new challenges, says the brand. The collection’s distinctly nautical pieces will be finished with

DELUXE PLAIN TRAVEL COLLECTION,

details like toggles and stripes, and should be able to be worn as much in the city as out at sea. CH MEN SPORT will be available from CH Carolina Herrera, 120 Mount Street or online. Expect the collection to do well in a capital gripped by Olympic fever.

ÂŁ150, ASPINAL OF LONDON, CABOT PLACE

SUMMER SHADES More a fashion accessory than a piece of protective eyewear, make an announcement with a pair of statement sunglasses.

WWW.CAROLINAHERRERA.COM

FLAVOUR FOR THE FRENCH

BOGIE BAG, ÂŁ1,250, S.T. T DUPONT, AVAILABLE AT HARRODS T.

Humphrey Bogart ™ Trademark and Likeness. Property of Bogart LLC. Licensed by Licensing Artists LLC. All Rights Reserved

It may be the season to celebrate everything Best of British, but foregoing national pride for just a second, take a look at S.T. Dupont’s latest travel bag. Counting among its clientele various monarchs, including our own, the Parisian brand celebrates its 140th anniversary this year with collections inspired by customers Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart. The bag below is based on the very first lightweight travel bag made by S.T. Dupont on a request from Humphrey Bogart in 1947. Elegantly classic, the bag arrives at Harrods this month.

1. 0862 BLACK, ÂŁ299, CUTLER UT AND GROSS, WWW.CUTLERANDGROSS.COM 2. STEVE MCQUEEN PO714, ÂŁ280, PERSOL AVAILABLE FROM DAVID CLULOW, JUBILEE PLACE 3. CORIE SUNGLASSES, ÂŁ223, OLIVER PEOPLES, WWW.MRPORTER.COM 4. HAVANA BAUHAUS, ÂŁ195, ROGER POPE, 41 NEW CAVENDISH STREET, W1G 9TW 5. RB3016 CLUBMASTER, ÂŁ120, RAY-BAN, AVAILABLE FROM DAVID CLULOW, AS BEFORE

49

WHITE

HEAT Photographer:

Helen McArdle Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

White high gloss silk ‘Pauline’ waistcoat, £1,335, Ralph Lauren, 020 7535 4600 B zero1 pink gold and white ceramic ring, £790 matching bracelet, £4,150 Bulgari, 020 7872 9969

Nude pleat one-shoulder silk dress, ÂŁ563 Halston Heritage, Harvey Nichols

Ivory wrap dress, £895, Roksanda Illincic Harvey Nichols Gilt necklace, £325, Kenneth Jay Lane www.merola.co.uk White patent ‘Via’ stilettos, £404 Alejandro Ingelmo at Dover Street Market

Chalk double stretch georgette jacket, £2,950, matching pleat front trousers, £1,290, and silk georgette halterneck top, £1,150 Tom Ford, www.tomford.com

Ivory dress, £2,790, Hervé Léger, 020 7201 2590 Chain cuffs, £165 each Kenneth Jay Lane, www.merola.co.uk White patent Dione stilettos, £530 Gina Couture

Hair & Make-Up: Katie Pettigrew at Tiger Creative using Mac Cosmetics and Kevin Murphy Haircare

Style-passport.com founder Sarah Walter talks to Kari Rosenberg about her childhood dreams, recession proof shopping and how to pack a suitcase in three and a half minutes

Globe-Trotter Luggage, www.globetrotter1897.com

Ready forTake-Off

interview

concierge comment

Image by David Bailey

J

oining Vogue on the same day as Anna Wintour (who, by the way, she wasn’t scared of, despite some at the magazine running for the door) Sarah Walter had what most would describe as a dream job.

She moved from one glossy magazine to the next – her role at Vogue as Accessories Editor was followed

by Fashion Editor at Harper’s Bazaar and then Fashion Director at Marie Claire – before giving it all up and changing careers completely to launch style-passport.com, a luxury online retail store for all your holiday needs. As we met in her simple North London office, the stripped back brick walls adorned with press clippings while rails of lust-worthy kaftans whizzed past in my peripheral, she was so at odds with the Devil Wears Prada image I’d mistakenly conjured that I was completely taken by surprise. Effortlessly stylish in neutral tones, make-up free with her hair scraped back, Sarah is far more pre-makeover Hathaway than fearsome Chanel-clad Streep.

Married to GQ Editor Dylan Jones, whose continued support, “despite the shift in corporate salary and all the creature comforts that went with it”, allowed Sarah to follow her ambitions, style-passport marks the realisation of a long-held childhood dream.

“When I was a little girl I used to imagine I owned Selfridges” she says. “I’ve always wanted to have my own retail emporium business. I knew after leaving journalism I would never want to open up a ‘bricks and mortar’ shop because the world we live in is going online. My version of my childhood dream is now my internet store. I always wanted my own business and that doesn’t go away. I think when I look back I was doing all the things that I needed to do to end up where I am today.”

Having celebrated its first birthday in March this year, the site is still relatively young, but is growing rapidly.

While the shift in career seems somewhat sudden, Sarah started consulting for high street chain New Look while at Marie Claire, which gradually evolved to a more full time position, working on collaborations with Lily Allen, Kelly Brook and Giles Deacon.

“They [New Look] just called me up and asked me to help out. I learnt a lot about retail by working and learning alongside other retailers. I’m not a trained buyer, merchandiser or designer in any way but I was able to get involved in lots of different things. It’s really exciting being on the street and seeing someone wearing something you had a hand in producing. It’s a real thrill.”

And despite leaving a fantastic career – one she misses “nothing at all” about – to set up shop during a recession, Sarah doesn’t think changing direction was ever the real risk. “I think setting up a business, pretty much under my own steam, was the huge risk, and when I started in 2010 we seemed to be coming out of recession but now we’ve gone back into one and Europe is falling apart. These are things you can never imagine happening when you set up a business, but as everybody says: ‘if you can make a business work in these times you will be well placed when things get better.’”

Mainly, she regrets not getting to know the consumer enough throughout her long stint in fashion journalism.

“I think sitting where I am now I wish when I’d worked on magazines I’d been closer to the reader. There wasn’t a

sense that you were doing things for real life human beings and thinking about what they really need. I think that’s the only way you get better at what you’re doing; you have to follow the customer.

“I literally started from scratch. It’s quite interesting because you think you know who your customer is but you don’t know for sure until you get started. Incrementally my ambition is to grow and grow and to move into other areas – I’d love to do menswear, kids-wear, my own label. But we have to move one step at a time.”

Sarah’s philosophy for riding out the recession is what she terms a “high-low” mentality. “So I started at Vogue and ended up at New Look which is pretty high-low. I went from working with Chanel couture to £11 trainers. Style-passport has expensive luxury items as well as inexpensive things. I don’t believe style is just about how much money you’ve got; it’s about how you put things together. That’s not to say I don’t love beautiful designer things, because of course I do, just like most women. But I don’t like to see it all together in one go. And that’s been quite a recession proof model.

We therefore try and sell more of the cheaper stuff which means you’ve got to shift a greater quantity to make the same money. Havaianas are the best flip-flops in the world, so why buy a designer pair for £150 when you can spend £20 and have the best? It’s that sort of mind-set that helps in an environment when many people are being cautious about what they spend.”

While Sarah may sing the praises of a £20 flip-flop, her

57

audience undoubtedly love the high-end goods, a market which is increasingly expanding. “I think the Chinese, Russian and Brazilian markets have made a huge difference to the luxury goods industry. You see lot of growth from increased demand in the Far East and BRIC countries. But you never know what’s going to happen really.�

Praising American actress Lauren Hutton’s “easy breezy style� and a number of top female CEO’s as role models, Sarah balances her recession-proof business brain alongside an enviable eye for style and knowing what sells. “We’ve done incredibly well with Missoni which is classic and one of my favourite brands. We have also done well with our artisanal brands; things we’ve found from around the world which we think have a story to tell. Petit Bateau striped tops are classic; you can’t ever go wrong in one of those.�

Having visited more than 60 countries, Sarah is currently planning a summer holiday to Mustique with her husband and two daughters. Able to “pack a bag in three and a half minutes�, she’s happy to enlighten me on what essentials she will be taking: “My Missoni poncho, a Calvin Klein swimsuit (for

actually swimming in) and lots of Havaianas for me and the girls. I’ve got some old Gap shorts that I always take, a couple of dresses I had made in Thailand. I always decide beforehand what colour my toenails are going to be and I think I’ll go for hot orange so I can date the holiday by looking at my feet. I always take three pairs of sunglasses – my giant Balenciaga ones, my smaller Prada ones and my classic Ray Bans. Sunglasses make you feel glamorous. “Getting your holiday style right makes you feel good.

Everyone needs a holiday. It’s the only time you properly spend time with your family and friends and the pictures you take will be displayed in silver frames all over your house. That’s how people will remember you. It’s a time to experiment a bit. You can be someone else, the better you, or the you that you want to be.�

With a fantastic business, a supportive family, and a holiday wardrobe to die for, I doubt Sarah could really want to be anyone else. To quote a despondent Emily Blunt, Sarah can now honestly say: “I love my job, I love my job� (and mean it). n www.style-passport.com

Sarah’S Top packing TipS Lay out everything on your bed adjacent to your bag. Work to an easy palette so every item goes with pretty much everything else. Now ruthlessly get rid of 50 per cent. Shoes go in the bottom, stuffed with underwear and scarves, then sweaters, dresses and jeans. Roll everything so you can fit in more and preserve against severe creasing. Also place your ‘rolls’ perpendicular to one another, again to fit in more. It you take a jacket, turn it inside out so it lasts the journey better. Tickets, passports and money should be together in an easily accessible document wallet, preferably in a cross body bag for safety.

European Mini- Break

1. A Mara Hoffman jersey print dress.

Team with flats for day, heels for nights. It’s a no-brainer, £250.

2. Prada shades. Oh so glamorous and very European, ÂŁ255.

3. A Sophie Hulme hand bag. Fly the new Brit ‘It’ bag girl flag and promote our brilliant talent abroad, ÂŁ275.

4. Paloma Barcelo espadrilles. You really can walk in them all day and they look great, too, ÂŁ110.

5. BECCA beach tint. Just the right degree of sun kissed cheek and doubles up as a lip tint too, ÂŁ20.

interview

concierge comment

Braving British Summer

1. A Petit Bateau Maillot long sleeved top in sky blue and white.

Chic with jeans or a skirt for any occasion, ÂŁ50.

2. Barbour International Jacket in light blue. Patriotic union jack interior for supporting Team GB, ÂŁ249.

3. A Pair of MIH white cropped jeans.

A flash of ankle nods to summer even if it’s not that warm, £143.

4. This waxed Ally Capellino rucksack is perfect for your day trips. And is spacious enough for a picnic blanket, a rain mac and all your bits, whatever the weather, ÂŁ218.

5. A pair of Converse, white or red.

When they get muddy or dusty from the beach simply chuck them in the washing machine on a cool wash, ÂŁ48.

Far-- -Flung Adventure

1. A bikini by Zimmerman. Beautifully cut and very stylish, ÂŁ165.

2. An Indonesian sarong. Once mastered, it doubles as a skirt, dress and evening wrap: genius, ÂŁ79.

3. Invisible Zinc day wear. Sun protection and cover up all in one and it only has one salient ingredient, ÂŁ26.

4. A DVF beach bag. It works for the beach but also market excursions, ÂŁ72.

5. Havaianas. The only flip-flops you will ever need. Update with new colours to match your toes each holiday, ÂŁ22.

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health & beauty

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GET THE LOOK: BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

health & beauty

Anton Oparin / Shutterstock.com

news Follow Nanette Lepore’s girlie summer look for all things bright and beautiful. Go for a super sheer cream cheek shade, a provocative phosphorescent pink lip and a wonderfully rosy retro coral nail.

THE FULL PACKAGE Having spent the past month counting down until holiday season, planning beach outfits and stocking up on sun-cream, the dreaded moment when we ditch the jeans for a skimpy two piece never gets any better. Get prepared and book in for a full holiday package at the Reebok Spa. Bronze your limbs with the St. Tropez spray tan

and OPI gel lacquer manicure, brush off the old skin and prettify your feet with a Decleor body buff and OPI pedicure or go for a double nail refurbishment with a manicure and pedicure duo.

Now come out from behind that palm tree…

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interiors

news BRIGHT SPARKS

MANHATTANLOFT LOOK Nothing completes a living space quite like the perfect sofa, the hub of inactivity and relaxation in your home.

Comfy yet stylish: worn-in but not worn-out; simple but not boring; go for a natural dyed linen in blue or taupe for feet-up durability and a modern Manhattan-loft look. Adorn with scatter cushions to create your ideal mood and theme which you can rotate throughout the seasons; sailor stripes for summer and spring and deep plush velvet to add warmth in winter.

This unique table lamp is made from an antique soda bottle which has been cleverly silvered from the inside. A one-of-a-kind up-cycled piece, each table lamp is different with the bottles varying from model to model. Available with either a grey or black lampshade, they take a standard bayonet light bulb.

SODA BOTTLE TABLE LAMP, £99 WWW.ROCKETTSTGEORGE.CO.UK

STUDIO SOFA, £POA BAILEYSHOMEANDGARDEN.COM

FEELING NAUTI...

For a classic Boston beach-house look, a simple nautical theme will always be chic.

Pick a few naval-inspired pieces for a holiday-home interiors scheme, mixing and matching with white-washed wood and Breton stripes. This authentic Royal Navy console will get any dinner-party guests talking while the small brass portal mirror adds a quirky touch of fun.

FOR FULL RANGE VISIT, WWW.OCCA-HOME.CO.UK

PULL UP A POUFFE Nautical but nice, these hard-wearing rope-style cable-knit pouffes come in a selection of earthy colours. With seasonal barbeques and patriotic garden parties, you can never have too much portable seating. Gather round a coffee table for tea and scones or move to the garden for some Pimm’s in the sunshine.

UTRSULA CABLE KNIT POUFFES £175 EACH WWW.GRAHAMANDGREEN.CO.UK

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the trend Blend colours, styles and cultures and infuse your home with the spirit of adventure

Verdure Wallpaper Landscape in Tapestry Green £90 per 122cm repeat, Zoffany, www.zoffany.com

Tree Stumps, from £1,500 Ralph Lauren Home www.ralphlaurenhome.com

Sightseer Rickshaw Trike £1,998, Anthropologie www.anthropologie.eu

interiors

The Topkapi Lantern £12,800, Soane www.soane.co.uk

Limited Edition Crab Eating Monkey Centrepiece, £POA, Patrick Mavros www.patrickmavros.com

concierge comment

Klimt inspired mosaic £15,072, Christopher Guy www.christopherguy.com

Small Buffalo Horn Spoon and small silver and horn spoon, from £120, Couturelab www.couturelab.co.uk

Indian Cove Lodge Carved Stool £2,550, Ralph Lauren Home www.ralphlaurenhome.com

Chinese Cloisonné Goblet Set £1,920, Couturelab, www.couturelab.co.uk

The Venus Chair, £6,600, Soane www.soane.co.uk

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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 motoring sport

pRincEss yacHTs cHEvROLET vOLT ............................................................. sTUaRT bROad .................................. ...............................

FULL THROTTLE

S Jet experts make it their business to customise their planes down to the last detail

pecialising in individually designed aircraft, The Jet Business has just opened the world’s first ever streetlevel corporate aviation showroom for the acquisition and sale of private jet aircraft and ancillary services.

The Jet Business caters to first time buyers and multi-jet owners with up-to-date global market information, advice and independent management throughout the acquisition.

It ensures 24 hour access to a qualified network of staff to suit specific requirements and needs including pilots, lawyers and specialist

interior designers.

Created by analysts and shown through graphic images on the electronic floor to ceiling screens in the Mayfair showroom, your personally designed aircraft can be presented right in front of you. And in the centre of the showroom is a full size fuselage of a large corporate jet. If you are unable to make it to the London showroom, the ancillary staff will bring the experience to you; anywhere in the world.

Now that’s jet set style. n www.thejetbusiness.com

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Making Waves Plymouth-based Princess Yachts has epitomised the best in British shipbuilding ever since it was launched in 1965. As the company’s new 40 metre superyacht prepares to hit the markets, Natalie Cox speaks to CEO Chris Gates

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he rest of 2012 looks set to be a busy year for Princess Yachts. Having stolen the show at this year’s London Boat Show with its 32M – the largest overall vessel to have been showcased inside London’s ExCeL exhibition halls – and started work on building an industry leading manufacturing facility in Plymouth, the brand then announced the arrival of the 40M, a 130 foot tri-deck vessel that will act as its new flagship yacht. Mr Gates joined the company in the 1980s, having started his career as an engineering apprentice.

How does Princess Yachts distinguish itself from its rivals?

We have a phenomenal passion for the product itself which has only grown over the years. We’ve got a longstanding management team – the main board – and we’ve got more than 110 years of experience between us within the company. I feel that shines through in our obsession with the product, along with our commitment to design and engineering. What attracted me to join the company at first was that the people there all possessed a very ‘can-do’ entrepreneurial spirit, one that I admired a lot.

interview

calibre

Is it possible to describe a typical Princess Yachts customer?

There’s no typical customer. We try to engage our sales team with people across the world and that’s becoming more important as the world becomes a smaller place. We started off as a European boat builder and now we’re truly an international brand. We’ve got customers in China, Australia, Russia, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina, as well as in our core European market. What defines our customers is that they’re some of the world’s most discerning, looking for the absolute best. We pride ourselves on the point of practicality, too. As soon as a customer uses one of our boats they appreciate not just the level of design and engineering that has gone in to it but the attention to even the smallest detail.

Where are your fastest growing markets?

The fastest growing markets in the world for us are Mexico, Brazil and various markets in the Far East. We’ve got a very strong partner in China and we’re looking at significant prospects. For our market place, and for our entire industry, China is very much an opportunity. But we’re a long time away from China becoming anywhere near the size of Europe.

What’s the most exciting yacht currently in production?

2012 is a very special year for us. We launched our smallest boat in 15 years or so, which is retailing for just over a quarter of a million pounds, and it’s undoubtedly a world beater. The next new boat to be launched is a 40 metre which has a price tag of around £15 million. She is going to be an incredible craft and both new boats are exciting for very different reasons.

What defines our customers is they’re some of the World’s most discerning How did the recession affect your business and what did you do to combat those affects?

The recession has been very, very tough on our industry and we’ve seen some significant downturn; I would guess on average, across our industry, about 40 per cent. But during that period we’ve actually managed to grow, and I think the key to this is our entrepreneurial spirit, the fact that we’re financially independent and a very financially strong business. Our parent company [Princess is part of the LVMH family] supports what we’re doing and allows us to increase development spend dramatically. The industry has shrunk but we have managed to grow and that’s through, I believe, the fundamental passion we have for both our product and satisfying our customers’ requirements.

Does the current Eurozone crisis worry you?

The very wealthy people in any economy are always conscious of what they’re spending and so we’re certainly not recession-proof. Given all the tightening up of fiscal policy across Europe, any company that’s going to do well has to work extremely hard.

What is the biggest risk you have taken in business?

Probably pushing very aggressively through this recession.

We’re investing for the long term; we believe that we can sacrifice short term profitability for long term stability and we’ve invested in a new ship-building site in Plymouth, a new 25 acre site where we’re growing the business into a new market sector. The 40 metre that we’re just launching represents this new market sector for us. Not only are we facing all sorts of recessionary pressures but also the pressure of having to learn about a new market segment. At the end of the day, it’s a calculated risk and you’ve got to surround yourself with the kind of professionals that can live with that.

What would you be doing if you weren’t in the yacht industry?

This is a fabulous industry; I really enjoy working with a product from concept, trying to understand what the market will need in three to five year’s time, the engineering challenges of making this happen and the opportunity to meet some very interesting and delighted customers at the end of the process. I think if I understood the industry but wasn’t in it, I’d be trying to make sure I was.

What do the next five years hold in store for Princess Yachts?

We operate a long-term plan because that helps us understand whether or not we’ve got the right facilities around us. That said, in this recessionary period, I think any company that’s looking at a five-year plan must have a much clearer crystal ball than me. I’m looking at the next couple of years and making sure beyond that we’ve got the infrastructure to be able to grow the company. Before then, I want to make sure that this year we come out on top and that will allow us to continue the steady growth we’ve been able to achieve for the last five years.

Lastly, if you could win any Olympic event, what would it be?

Either the triathlon or the marathon. As a company, we’re in it for the long game. As strong as the 100 metre boys are over short distances, you’ve got to have strength and depth if you want to win the marathon. n

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The Broad appeal Following England’s win against the West Indies in May, and ahead of September’s Twenty20 World Cup, Richard Brown speaks to cricket’s golden boy Stuart Broad

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tuart Broad’s rise through the international cricket ranks has been nothing short of extraordinary. After debuting for Leicestershire 2nd XI in 2004, it has taken the right-arm seam bowler just eight years to become one of England’s most prized cricketing possessions, notching up memorial Test victories against Sri Lanka (2007), South Africa (2008), and Pakistan (July 2010) along the way.

At the age of 25, Broad holds the joint world record for an eight-wicket batting partnership (accumulated with Jonathan Trott against Pakistan in 2010), is one of only eight players to appear on both the bowling and batting honours boards at Lord’s, and, at the same ground earlier this year, became the first player to take a ten wicket haul since Sir Ian Botham in 1978.

Despite a career littered with records, firsts and man-ofthe-match performances, having spoken to Broad ahead of the final Test against the West Indies in May, it seems it isn’t so much the individual accolades that constitute his career highlights as triumphs achieved as a team. “Personal

highlights are all very good but I think you get the most satisfaction from team victories. I look back to the Twenty20 World Cup win in Barbados and that was a really special day.

Beating Australia in Barbados; it doesn’t get much better than that. And of course, the two Ashes wins I’ve been involved in; they were both very special moments.”

Indeed, the Ashes series of 2009 isn’t something Broad is likely to forget. Heading into the fifth Test with the series levelled at one apiece, only a victory would secure England the infamous urn. On the afternoon of the second day, up stepped Broad who, in an astonishing 12-over spell, would dismiss five of Australia’s batsmen for 37 runs, claiming four of those wickets for eight runs in just 21 balls. It was a performance that swung the series in England’s favour and one that, coupled with batting figures of 37 and 29, would see him named man-of-the-match.

While the series may have secured Broad a reputation as one of the game’s great modern-day bowlers, he insists it’s neither the most exciting nor the most memorable game in

interview

which he has played. That, he says, comes courtesy of the Pakistan Twenty20 team he faced in February of this year.

“We were in Abu Dhabi and we were drawing the series one all; there was a great sense of pressure.” Pakistan’s batsmen needed 35 off the last five overs. Broad bowled the 16th and the penultimate, conceding just four runs from each. It was left to England’s Jade Dernbach to dismiss Misbah-ul-Haq in the game’s final over to secure England a dramatic victory. “Being captain of that [match] was a massive deal. It was a hugely exciting game to be part of and even more exciting given the fact that we ended up coming out on top.”

When England head to Sri Lanka in September for the 2012 ICC World Twenty20, they will do so as defending champions. While his form continues and injury remains at bay, it is likely that Broad will be selected as captain. And yet if the thought evokes any sort of unnerve, he certainly doesn’t show it. “It’s all about building confidence and going into it with everyone knowing their roles,” he says with considered confidence. “We don’t have a lot of Twenty20 cricket coming up this summer and when we do, we have to make the opportunities count. I think we’ve got some very exciting Twenty20 players now and it’s a great team to be part of. We’ve got to go to Sri Lanka with confidence and be ready to make a big impact.”

Before then, there’s a domestic season to play and one that England will want to use to continue to improve the sort of performance that saw them beat the West Indies. “It was very important for us to get off to a strong start ahead of the summer and I think we are playing fantastically well,” says Broad. “We were left a little upset by our winter performance. Obviously we weren’t overly happy with how that went. So it was important that we got the ball rolling.

“One of our team principles is not to look too far ahead.

We’ve got a lot of exciting cricket coming up with the South Africans coming over before the Twenty20 World Cup. But if you look too far ahead you can lose sight of what you are trying to achieve in the moment. If you take your eye off

calibre

the ball, it can really hurt you.” If that’s the mindset that Broad has lived by up until now, then it’s proved to be one worth sticking to.

Of course, in the careers of all great sportsmen there are anomalies that prove each is only human. During 2007’s ICC World Twenty20 in South Africa, India’s Yuvraj Singh hit six sixes from one Broad over. It was the fourth time the feat had been performed in senior cricket and the first in any form of the sport against a bowler from a major cricketing country.

Rather than dwelling on times when things haven’t gone exactly to plan, however, Broad would rather treat such instances as learning curves. “I’ve always been a believer that your low points improve you the most; that’s why it’s important to make mistakes.

As long as you learn from them, you become a better person for it. This winter was pretty tough on England.

From being the number one Test team in the world to go and lose four Tests on the bounce was a real kick in the teeth. But we’ve come back strongly and proved that it was just a slip.”

With Adidas, Red Bull, Maximuscle and Disney being just some of the conglomerates that have paid Broad to align his image with theirs, it’s clear that the Nottinghamshire cricketer’s corporate fan base hold him in just as much esteem as those who pay to watch him play. Having accomplished so much in such a short space of time, what then is left to achieve? “I’d love to be part of the legacy of an England team, like Manchester United, which has won trophy after trophy; a team of people like Scholes, Giggs, Cantona and Neville; players who consistently win trophies.”

Having already captained his country before the age of 26, it’s an aim he’s well positioned to realise. n

“I’m a crIcket purIst. I’ve been brought up on test crIcket.

I love every part of It”

Stuart Broad is an ambassador for Investec, the specialist bank and asset manager. Investec is the title sponsor of test match cricket. Please visit the Investec Cricket Zone at www.investec.co.uk/cricket for player analysis, stats, test match information and cricket games

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© 1964 Danjaq, LLC and United Artists Corporation. All rights reserved.

news

FOR HER FROM HIM Modern man does not wish to concern himself with hours of needless browsing on countless websites, searching for the perfect present for a lady-friend. No, modern man will tire of this and end up ordering the same bouquet of flowers that he bought last year.

What he needs is a brand new present buying service that will get the job done fast.

Lucky, then, that such a thing has just been launched. Based on inputting five simple pieces of information, ManBuysPresent.com will propose three desirable gifts for you to choose from. A further click ensures that the chosen item is ordered, beautifully gift-wrapped and delivered on time to the lucky female recipient. Sorted.

WWW.MANBUYSPRESENT.COM

DESKTOP PAIN RELIEF BOND THROUGH THE AGES It’s one of the most triumphant franchises in movie history. Now, to mark its 50th anniversary, the Barbican Centre is tracing the evolution of Bond style from the 1962 Dr No to this year’s Skyfall through costumes, production design, cars, gadgets, special effects, stunts and props. Designing 007 will be a multi-sensory experience that promises to immerse audiences in the creation and development of Bond style over its auspicious history. Designed by Ab Rogers, with guest-curation by fashion historian Bronwyn Cosgrave and Oscar-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming, the exhibition will display screen finery by Hollywood costume designers and major fashion names including Giorgio Armani, Roberto Cavalli, Hubert de Givenchy, Miuccia Prada, Óscar de la Renta and Donatella Versace.

DESIGNING 007. BARBICAN CENTRE, SILK ST, LONDON, EC2Y 8DS. 6 JULY UNTIL 5 SEPTEMBER

REALLY LOUD LOUDSPEAKERS There are few things that bond a group of men in unanimous head-nodding approval better than a decent barbeque kit and the roar of a V12 engine. The other piece of equipment that most men can truly appreciate is a deafening, foundation-vibrating home entertainment system.

News of the latest loudspeaker by Wilson Audio will, therefore, come as music to the ears of most males (pun most definitely intended). Built with the simple aim of being the world’s best speakers, the astonishing Alexandria XLF is physically larger, has thicker cabinet walls and boasts more bass than its predecessor. With a price tag of £200,000 per pair, the speakers have been designed and finished without compromise. Feel free to nod your head in approval.

It won the 2010 Attendees’ Choice Award at the National Ergonomics Exposition in Las Vegas as soon as it was released and has been appearing on more and more office desks ever since. Eliminating the need to reach for a traditional mouse and grip, Contour Design’s RollerMouse Free2 keyboard vastly reduces the threat of repetitive strain injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Tendonitis.

By controlling the cursor by lightly moving the rollerbar with your fingertips, you are able to touch, move and control the cursor from any point without having to move your arms, relieving neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain.

WWW.ERGO.CONTOUR-DESIGN.COM

WWW.WILSONAUDIO.COM

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ON A

CHARGE

R

Is the Chevrolet Volt the electric car of the future?

Matthew Carter thinks it might be

ange anxiety. It’s the latest piece of motoring jargon to hit the tarmac, though it’s something that only afflicts drivers of electric vehicles. Unlike a conventional petrol or diesel-powered car, when an electric vehicle starts running out of juice you can’t peel off into a handy fuel station and top it up, not least because it doesn’t get its energy from a pump. And in any case, it takes hours rather than minutes to recharge the battery.

In time, London will be full of recharging bays, some of which will be quick chargers capable of topping up the battery in your EV to 80 per cent capacity in 30 minutes.

But even then, if you plan on travelling more than 100 miles

in one go, an EV is not for you as that’s as far as it can go.

Now you know why every Nissan Leaf driver looks anxious.

But now there may be a solution on offer. It’s the Chevrolet Volt, which, together with its sister vehicle, the Vauxhall Ampera, is the current Car of the Year. It has an electric motor producing the equivalent of 150hp and which, just like the Leaf, is powered by batteries so there’s no pollution, no congestion charge and no road tax to pay.

But there’s a big difference. The Volt also has a 1.4 litre petrol engine designed to take over when battery power fails: Chevy reckons you can get as far as 50 miles on electric power alone before needing help from the good old internal

motoring

calibre

IN BRIEF CaR: Chevrolet Volt PRICE: £34,995 (less £5,000 Plug-In Car Grant) ELECTRIC ENgINE: AC synchronous PowER: 150 hp DRIvE: Front-wheel drive, single-speed automatic PERFoRmaNCE: 99 mph max, 0-62 mph in 9.0secs

combustion engine. So, you say, it’s just a hybrid like the Toyota Prius and any number of lumbering Lexus models.

They have petrol and electric engines working together, too.

Well yes. And then again, no. The typical hybrid is essentially a petrol car which has the bonus of a small electric engine to give it a power boost when needed. While most hybrids might start off in EV mode, as soon as the speed goes over a walking pace the petrol engine takes over. You can go, ooooh, 100 yards on electric power alone.

The Volt is the exact opposite. Yes it’s a hybrid, but it’s essentially an electric vehicle with what Chevrolet likes to call a compact range-extending petrol engine. The idea is that you use it in EV mode for the day-to-day stuff, plugging it into the mains at the office or when you get home at night, and only bring the petrol engine into play when you go on a longer journey. And then the engine is effectively charging the battery to power the electric motor rather than directly driving the wheels. Best of both worlds, in other words.

And it works. Armed with a fully charged Volt I drove around 35 miles over a varied route on battery power alone.

As the charge went down so the petrol engine kicked in and I was able to complete my journey without having to worry about being stranded by the side of the road. Chevy reckons with a full tank of petrol (35 litres only) and a full battery, a range of around 300 miles is possible. And of course the Volt is one EV that can be refuelled at a petrol pump. In America, where the car has been on sale for more than a year, customers using the car in town and recharging every night reckon they get more than 1,000 from each tank of fuel.

So there you have it. The future of motoring has arrived.

World saved. The end...but not quite The Volt is an extremely clever piece of kit, but it’s not perfect. For starters, so long as the petrol engine is working it’s not a zero emission car. If you really are a tree hugger who needs personal transport, you

can only consider a pure electric vehicle like the Nissan or the Renault Fluence. Still, if you’re prepared to live with some exhaust fumes you’ll find Volt looks reasonably futuristic (and to these eyes, it’s rather more handsome than the Vauxhall equivalent), while the interior, with its swooping piano-white centre console and brightly coloured digital dials, could have been lifted straight from the set of Star Trek. But you’ll need the brainpower of Spock to assimilate all the info it can deliver.

It’s smaller inside that you might think, too. Having to package all those batteries means there’s only room inside for four.

It’s easy to drive though. Stick the automatic box into drive, press the throttle and the response is, well, electric.

Like the Leaf, it accelerates quickly and quietly and with no fuss. Thanks to the instant response from the electric motor there’s no need to wait for revs to rise as you would in a conventional car.

Top speed is limited to 99mph, which is probably fine given the crowded state of our roads, but where the Volt falls down is in its ride and handling. At the risk of stereotyping the car, it feels American in the way it drives. The ride is poor and it’s not much fun to hustle down a twisty road.

Maybe that doesn’t matter. The Volt is a game changer and one can forgive it a few foibles. Even the price, £35,000 before options and a reduction courtesy of the government, isn’t too bad considering how advanced it is. Mind you, the same sort of money could get you something like an Efficient Dynamics BMW 320d. Yes, you’ll be pumping out more in the way of emissions (though at just 109g/km the Bimmer is hugely impressive) but you’ll have a far more enjoyable and dynamic car to drive.

But if you’re wedded to the idea of an electric vehicle and need to travel further than 100 miles every now and then, the Volt makes a pretty strong case for itself. Welcome to the future. n

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calibre motoring

I Z-CAR BMW’S

Matthew Carter hopes the one-off BMW Zagato Coupé makes it to UK roads

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talian styling house Zagato has been responsible for some of the most...individual looking cars around. Scrub that. Some of the stuff that Zagato has done for Lancia, Alfa, Maserati and the rest is just plain weird.

That’s why it comes as something of a shock to see a Zagato design study that’s, well, brutally handsome. It’s the BMW Z4-based Zagato Coupé produced for the German company and unveiled at this year’s Villa d’Este ‘Concorso d’Eleganza’ held on the banks of Lake Como in Italy. One of the most exclusive events on the motoring calendar, the Concorso is mainly filled with the most elegant of classic cars, all hand-picked for the event. It began as a get-together of coachbuilders presenting oneoff hand-built creations and the BMW Zagato Coupé is just that.

Although clearly owing its silhouette to the standard BMW offering, the Zagato version has many of the company’s traditional styling cues including the ‘double bubble’ roof, dominant air intakes and heavily sculpted flanks. The sharply cut-off Kamm tail is another Zagato trademark shape. Mechanically, it is virtually standard, though the 3.0-litre engine has been breathed upon so power rises from 335hp to nearer 400hp. According to BMW, it’s “…an exciting and emotionally charged coupé in the finest tradition of automotive workmanship.

“The BMW Zagato Coupé embodies the unbridled fascination of cars and fuses the design DNA of the two companies into a fresh and distinctive whole. This one-off model is

the product of many hours of skilled handcraftsmanship and breathes new life into the tradition of coach-building.”

Will it remain a one-off? Well, bearing in mind it is fully road legal, it would be an awful waste of time and money if it remained a museum piece. Although full-scale production is unlikely, it would be possible to create a low volume run for wealthy buyers in markets such as Russia and China. That’s something that Zagato is already familiar with, having produced a number of variations on the Aston Martin theme in the past. And bearing in mind the interior and running gear are much as they were when they left the BMW factory, it would be perfectly possible to build a few Zagato Z4s in right hand drive for the UK market. Start saving. n

6637 Canary Wharf Mag Ad Aug_LP.indd 1

13/06/2012 10:09

CELEBRATE LONDON 2012 WITH LLOYDS TSB’S PRIZE DRAW AND PHOTO COMPETITION

Win tickets to London 2012.

Lloyds TSB is a Proud Partner of the London 2012 Games, and to celebrate this it’s giving everyone the opportunity to win some fantastic London 2012 prizes.

All you have to do is share your photos of the Olympic Torch Relay, or those that capture the spirit of the Games, on the Lloyds TSB London 2012 Facebook page facebook.com/lloydstsblondon2012.*

Share your favourite London 2012 snapshots and you could win fantastic prizes.

From 19 May to 29 July, you can share your snapshots of the Olympic Torch Relay and Lloyds TSB will enter you into its Follow the Flame prize draw for a chance to win tickets to the Olympic Games Closing Ceremony, or to the Olympic and Paralympic Games, including the Olympic Games Athletics finals.

And from 27 July to 17 September, Lloyds TSB’s Spirit of the Games photo competition will be looking for a picture that captures the true spirit of the London 2012 Games. No matter how you’re enjoying the once-in-alifetime event, Lloyds TSB want to see your pictures. By entering your London 2012 Games photos you could win some fantastic prizes including celebrating with Team GB and Paralympics GB at the BT British Olympic Association Ball in London on 30 November.

Visit your local branch at The Park Pavilion or call 0845 425 5040 to find out how.

Lloyds TSB will also be displaying pictures from the Follow the Flame prize draw and Spirit of the Games competition in the national press, and on the big screen at the gateway to London’s Olympic Park. * Registered Facebook users only. You must be 13 or over for the Follow the Flame prize draw and 18 or over for the Spirit of the Games photo competition. Professional photographers and Lloyds Banking Group employees are excluded. Full terms and conditions are on the Facebook page.

Registered Facebook users only. You must be 13 or over for the Follow the Flame prize draw, and 18 or over for the Spirit of the Games photo competition. Professional photographers and Lloyds Banking Group employees are excluded.

Full terms and conditions are on our Facebook page.

XCAMAH051214570_Win_Tickets_114752.indd 1

11/06/2012 16:05

Find out more at your local lloyds tsB Branch Why not pop into the local branch at Canary Wharf to meet the Bank Manager, Bhav Desai and her team to find out more?

Lloyds TSB Canary Wharf Branch The Park Pavilion 40 Canada Square 0845 425 5040 Monday 8:30am-5pm Tuesday 8:30am-5pm Wednesday 10am-5pm

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Thursday 8:30am-5pm Friday 8:30am-5pm Saturday 10am-3pm

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

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equinox ceo christopher wArd ...................................................................................pensions......................................................

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Airport plAns to tAke off?

D Aviation crisis causes London to reconsider another airport in the Thames Estuary

espite being one of the planet’s most advanced cities, recent reports suggest that London’s aviation capabilities are far from impressive.

Over the next two decades, demand for air travel is set to expand from 240 to 460 million passengers per year.

Though already served by six airports, London’s intake of flights to and from the UK is lacking significantly in comparison to rival airports such as Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Charles de Gaulle in Paris. As political opinion moves away from the option of expanding

current airports, the possibility of a brand new four-hub airport in the Thames Estuary is looking increasingly likely.

Already dubbed ‘Boris Island’ after its most prominent supporter Boris Johnson, the hub could potentially carry 150 million passengers a year – double the current number passing through Heathrow. Don’t expect building to start any time soon though; Nick Clegg has already expressed his opposition to the plans, as has the RSPB and many other wildlife groups. With the airport expected to cost upward of £50 billion, the tax payer may not be too happy either. n

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Going Global Its high-end fitness clubs cater to a host of celebrity clientele and industry leaders in cities across the United States. Now, Equinox is going global by launching a club in London. Ahead of the opening this October, Richard Brown speaks to Equinox CEO and President Harvey Spevak

interview

H

arvey Spevak certainly doesn’t see success as an excuse to rest on one’s laurels. Not content with becoming Equinox’s CEO and President in 1999, the New York native has since managed a buyout of the company, bought the company back, introduced the first American outpost of both Pure Yoga and Blink Fitness, and entered into a strategic partnership with SoulCycle, America’s leading cycling operator.

When he opens Equinox London in the historic Derry and Tom’s building on Kensington High Street, Mr Spevak will be unveiling the first step in the fitness chain’s plan to turn Equinox into an international conglomerate.

Tell us about your career before Equinox I was part of the management team that lead division, development and creation of a 1.7 million square foot sports entertainment complex on the lower west side of Manhattan.

I did that for five or six years. The aspects of that experiencecreating a vision, a strategy, a real estate development, sales and marketing were all part of an exercise that ultimately led me to Equinox.

Why did you decide to join Equinox?

The original founders of Equinox were at a point where they had created a successful, and at the time a very innovative concept, but did not have the experience or qualifications to build Equinox into a national lifestyle brand. With Equinox I saw a brand and a story that could be much larger, that could move domestically and then ultimately, internationally.

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Is it possible to describe a typical Equinox customer?

We cater to a diverse community from different industries that include finance, art, media, entertainment, hospitality and more. But certainly it’s a high end population, an affluent and sophisticated audience. It’s people who seek quality; they are tech-savvy, they are educated, they’re pop culture enthusiasts.

Who have been your role models in business?

I get inspiration from so many different people but I don’t believe in copying or following someone else. Certainly Steve Jobs comes to mind, not just because of innovation but because of his eye for detail which is consistent with the Equinox brand.

I also like Mickey Drexler, CEO of J.Crew Group. We are not in the retail business, but he just thinks differently. He too has an eye for detail. He is always trying to get ahead so every time I leave a meal with Mickey I’m just inspired to do more.

What would you describe as the highlight of your career?

The overall success of the Equinox brand and the fact that we are now poised to build Equinox into a global lifestyle company. The vision is often the easy part; the hard part is making that vision successful. I would say coming to London has definitely been one of the highlights of my career.

Coming to London has been one of the highlights of my career

Tell us more about Equinox London.

Equinox in Kensington is our first international club. We had been studying and evaluating the London market for many years as we are highly sensitive about where we will develop our clubs.

We started getting very serious about the London market pre-recession, but like everybody else, we were concerned about what the recession would do to our business.

However, we soon recognised that our business would not only be okat, but that it was going to do very well because of the loyalty and passion of our members. So we refocused our energies on the London market.

Who will be your biggest London rivals?

We are much more than a health club. If you want a certain level of quality innovation, an inspiring and motivating environment, with the level of service that we provide, Equinox is the only place you will get it.

Why Kensington?

When I first saw the location I knew it would be ideal for our first flagship hub in central London. We have a history of locating and developing in iconic locations and this is most definitely one.

Are there plans to extend the Equinox brand further than London and New York?

We receive a tremendous amount of interest in the Equinox brand from all parts of the world and we are definitely evaluating opportunities beyond London and our second international club in Toronto that opens this autumn.

What does the future hold in store for the brand?

Even though we have been operating for 20 years, we as a company are just warming up. The opportunities and the initiatives we have in front of us, the people that want to play with us; it’s a very exciting time for the brand.

If you weren’t in the health industry, what do you think you would be doing?

One of the industries that I get the most inspiration from is hospitality. A lot of innovative elements that enhance your experience in hotels share similarities with things we do in our locker rooms and bathrooms. I’d do something similar to what I’m doing now but maybe in the hospitality sector.

If you could compete in, and win, one Olympic event what would it be?

I would want to win one of the long distance running events.

I often preach to our team that we are building a business with long term success.

We run with long term, always looking to be the best in class, the innovators, the leaders, not following anything but first rate experience. n

To get on the list for Equinox London visit www.equinox.com

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comment finance

may result in a higher risk, but can be a very tax efficient way of investing in a pension.

• Stakeholder pensions – simple, low cost personal pensions, which can be started from £16 a month and offer the same tax benefits.

Company pensions • Defined contribution – company pension schemes vary depending on your employer, but the vast majority will be a group variation of the individual pensions outlined above. They have the added bonus that both you and your employer tend to contribute to your pension pot.

• Final salary – a valuable, but almost extinct, pension which promises to pay you a percentage of your salary when you retire, depending on how long you have worked for your employer.

Taking Control of your Future Pension expert Ross Liston explains how best to invest in your retirement

How much have you saved for your retirement?

If you don’t know, then how are you going to be financially comfortable and secure when you stop working? For most people the State Pension alone – currently £5,311.80 a year for a single person (at the time of writing) – doesn’t provide enough money to live on.

In the current economic environment, saving for retirement could be low down the list of priorities for many. But it really is a case of every little counts and the sooner you start the better. The good news is that pensions needn’t be complicated and tend to be very flexible. You can decide now much to save and you can change this amount at any time. You can also choose where you want to invest your money so it has time to grow.

Plus every time you save money into your pension fund, the taxman helps out too. At present if you’re a basic rate taxpayer, for every £80 you pay in, the taxman pays in £20 to your pension. If you’re an additional rate taxpayer, then the taxman could contribute even more.

The basic types of pensions fall into two main groups:

Individual Pensions • Personal pension – you can invest into a wide choice of funds and benefit from the tax breaks outlined above.

• SIPP – stands for self-invested personal pension and can be useful if you need additional flexibility.

SIPPs offer different investment options which you control – some even include gold. They

Whatever pension you choose, you need to know how much you should invest. You can find more information on pensions and a useful tool to help work this out at www.yourfuturemoney.co.uk. As your pension pot will depend on the performance of your investments, the next step is to choose which funds to invest in. There are thousands to choose from, which is why it can make sense to seek financial advice.

Key points to remember when choosing a pension: • Check that any current savings and investments you hold are tax-efficient.

• If you have a pay rise, think about topping up your regular pension investments. Or arrange for that to happen automatically.

• Look out for your annual pension statement and review how your investments are performing regularly.

• See if you can boost your pension by changing your investments.

• Consider combining the old pensions you already have into your current pension plan. This can make it easier to keep track of your investments and perhaps save on fees too.

Overall, you need to think about your attitude to risk, your investment time frame and your goals.

Generally speaking, the higher the risk you take, the higher the potential return is likely to be. But make sure you are comfortable with the risk you are taking. So look at volatility, fund rating and charges. It makes sense to spread your risk across a range of different asset classes – such as UK equities, smaller companies, global equities and – which can help smooth out the ups and downs of the stock market over the long term. n

Ross Liston is a pensions expert at Standard Life. For more information please visit www.standardlife.co.uk.

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business

Online Sensation Since it was founded in 2004, the Christopher Ward watch company has experienced sales growth of 60 per cent year on year. Richard Brown speaks to CEO Chris Ward about how the brand’s unique business model has contributed to its success

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The Christopher Ward watch company was founded on a boat on the River Thames by Mike France, Chris Ward and Peter Ellis. While France and Ellis brought the retail know-how to the table, it was Ward who had the watchmaking expertise.

On discovering the typical astronomical costs of a luxury Swiss watch marketing campaign, they turned the traditional watchmaking model on its head, setting forth on a mission to create “the cheapest, most expensive watches in the world” by selling directly to the public over the internet, and choosing not to pursue celebrity endorsement.

focus group which provides an early steer as to whether we’ve got things right or wrong. Brands like Nike would kill for this kind of social network.

Christopher Ward was the first luxury watchmaker to sell directly to its customers online. Why? My partners, Peter Ellis and Mike France, and I wanted to make the visceral pleasure of owning and wearing a precision made, premium watch accessible to almost everyone. We knew that the cost of making a watch was a fraction of what they were sold for. With no shops and no expensive marketing campaigns we planned to pass on dramatic savings to our customers.

What was the biggest challenge about bringing the brand to market?

Starting a watch brand from scratch was a big gamble. We discovered the biggest challenge was overcoming the widespread disbelief that watches of real quality could possibly be so affordable.

It was only when the online watch enthusiasts discovered they were the real McCoy that we knew we had a chance.

How do you ensure your watches remain “the cheapest most expensive watches in the world”?

Our business model is at odds with our competitors’. We avoid expensive retail overheads.

Our marketing expenses are a fraction of our competitors’. We aren’t greedy about mark-ups.

Did you anticipate the company would do so well?

No. Although we all believed in what we were doing and we are relatively ambitious, our recent growth is certainly ahead of expectations.

Tell us about the Christopher Ward forum?

We were quick to realise how useful the forum could be – not just in terms of sales but also in providing almost instant feedback on proposed new ideas and designs. Because it is totally independent, the Forum acts as a giant, ready-made

Is there a typical Christopher Ward customer?

70 per cent of our customers are male but beyond that, the thing which defines our customer base is an appreciation of watches, quality and craftsmanship. Our customers come from all sorts of backgrounds but there is a definite bias towards professional people. Two per cent of our sales come from doctors.

Has the recession affected your business?

In some ways we have benefited from the financial malaise as many people now value real value over hype. We feel the market has moved towards us in that regard.

Internationally, where are your biggest markets?

The US is our second largest market at more than 20 per cent of our business and growing at more than 100 per cent per annum. Other important markets are Russia, Holland, Germany, Australia, France, Canada and, interestingly, Switzerland. In total we sell to more than 90 countries – including a customer at the North Pole.

What do the next five years hold in store?

Fun, profit and wonderful watches – hopefully. n www.christopherward.co.uk

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LET THE SUN SHINE

The new terrace at The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant in Knightsbridge is the ideal destination for summer. A secluded and sophisticated venue for morning coffee or light meals, the terrace becomes a cigarist’s paradise in the evening with an extensive choice of whisky, cocktails and wine complementing a new cigar menu.

For more information visit theribroom.co.uk or call 020 7858 7250 Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 9PY

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Set up home within Six Senses Laamu deep in the Indian Ocean with its own private Yin Yang wave to surf; Soneva Kiri in Thailand on the remote island of Koh Kood, only an hour’s private plane ride away from Bangkok, or the soon to

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Every villa is fully serviced by the host resort including a 24 hour butler service and full access to all facilities and amenities with special ‘owners rates’ offered in the restaurants and bars. Those looking to invest further afield in the foreign property market will benefit from attractive rental yields of up to eight per cent net guaranteed returns per annum. n www.sixsensesprivateresidences.com

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JOIN Team Reebok

1 week Summer of Sport membership £30 In addition, If you are running or cycling to work this summer why not rent a private overnight locker for £5 per week 020 7970 0911

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news

DOWNTOWN CHICAGO With an all-glass exterior and a refurbished interior, The Four Diamond Swissôtel Chicago has just completed a £6 million renovation including a backlit glass panel etched with the city skyline. Get to grips with the check-in pods, as well as the Nervana Ghost Wall which acts as a digital concierge where guests can check the weather, map routes and find out more about new attractions. Found within the confluence of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, this hotel offers stunning views of Navy Pier to Millennium Park as well as the Magnificent Mile. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, allowing for a sophisticated relaxed stay within the nexus of the windy city.

WWW.SWISSOTELCHICAGO.COM

TRAVEL CONNOISSEURS Around since 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group, boasting five-star venues placed across 29 countries, with each and every one embracing the cultural heritage of its location. The creative gastronomists at Kempinski in Barbados Bay reflect the sunny weather as well as our own yearnings for a tropical tipple, with a

menu of zesty and refreshing iced Cocktail Popsickle mixes. Take a sip of the revitalising Cucumber and Melon Margarita, or the superpunchy Lime Basil and Rum Mojitos. Best of all, they’re complimentary, and if you fancy embracing your inner mixologist, then the Popsicle-making master classes are a must.

WWW.KEMPINSKI.COM

THERAPEUTIC SANCTUARY Restorative and harmonic, this deluxe ecoconscious healing resort is nestled within close proximity to the Ayung River in the highlands near the village of Ubud, Bali. Fivelements Resort delivers treatments inspired by the Balinese way of life, with a wellness programme that originates from the ancient traditions of Bali, nurturing their guests’ journey of healing through treatments and ceremonies. Adding to its serenity, there are a selection of Sacred Arts exercises including yoga, meditation and Qi Gong, to name a few. Made from 70 per cent bamboo, the intimate resort holds seven bedrooms, with each suite featuring a river

facing veranda and an open-air bathtub carved from a stone boulder. Fivelements guarantees utter relaxation of your mind, body and soul.

URBAN CHIC Many of us with hectic lifestyles despise trawling through websites searching for the perfect trip.

Urbanalogie, the new and exclusive curated lifestyle guide, is dedicated to providing its members with personalised news, knowledge and information on the latest restaurants, bar and hotel openings, invitations to exclusive events, and access to various privileges and benefits.

Founder Hugo Campbell-Davys has ensured that only relevant and tailored information is sent.

WWW.URBANOLOGIE.NET

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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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The Ancient

PERUVIAN CHARM Katie Charing revisits Peru, the land of deadly and delicious Pisco Sours, nonplussed llamas and awe-inspiring Inca remains, finding it obvious why the diverse and colourful nation is enjoyed by millions of visitors every year

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n the variety of its charms and the power of its spell, I know of no place in the world which can compare with it.” So wrote the renowned explorer Hiram Bingham upon discovering the lost Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in 1911, although he could easily have been speaking of Peru in its entirety. Thus we could barely contain our excitement as we landed at Lima to begin our luxury tour of the highlights of Southern Peru.

With hotels impeccably placed around the country, Orient-Express provides a perfect base from which to explore this exceptional destination.

In the capital, Lima, a bustling and modern city reflecting the country’s recent economic growth, we stayed at the Miraflores Park Hotel, located in an upmarket district of the city beside the Pacific Ocean. There we sampled Lima’s vibrant and growing gastronomic scene in its stylish restaurant, Mesa 18, one of the city’s most fashionable foodie destinations.

Head chef Toshiro Konishi, a friend of the famous Nobu Matsuhisa, is a leading practitioner of Nikkei, the union of Japanese and Peruvian

From Left: Hotel location, Hiram Bingham exterior, Hiram Bingham interior

cuisine. He served us a truly delicious selection of dishes that made us swear never to return to a chain restaurant again. Highlights were the deeplyflavoured Nizakana deep sea grouper and the innovative wasabi ice-cream.

After a short flight to Cusco and guided drive we arrived in the Sacred Valley, once known as the ‘garden of the Incas’, a picturesque stretch of

Anticipation built from the moment we stepped onto the elegant blue and gold train small villages and ancient ruins spread across mountain slopes northwest of Cusco. We passed through the pretty market town of Pisac before arriving at the Rio Sagrado Hotel, a haven perfectly in harmony with its rural setting. After a relaxing soak in the outdoor jacuzzi in the hotel’s Mayu Wilka Spa and a couple of refreshing chilcano de pisco cocktails, made with fresh ginger slices and lime, we almost floated back to our suite. The early morning outdoor yoga class on the

bank of the Urubamba River left us feeling truly connected to the ancient spirituality of the setting.

We spent the day exploring the valley with our prodigiously knowledgeable multi-lingual guide, who brought the history of the sites to life with fast-paced tales and interesting facts from recent research and excavations.

Having a top-quality guide is essential to fully appreciate the skill and scientific understanding of the Incas.

We wandered through the magnificent Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo, where current inhabitants still live in constructions first built under the reign of Inca Pachacuti in the mid-1400s.

Next we marvelled at the giant circular ruins of Moray, believed to have been part of an Inca agricultural laboratory, and saw the intricate mosaic of salt pans at Maras, where salt has been harvested since the time of the Incas.

After such a fantastic introduction to Peruvian history, we couldn’t wait to visit Machu Picchu the following day.

Machu Picchu is deservedly one of the nation’s key tourist attractions, and travellers have flocked to the sacred site for decades. Some traverse one of the

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famous Inca trail routes through the Andes along paths built by the Incas themselves, while others opt to travel there by one of the spectacularly scenic train routes. Its discoverer reached Machu Picchu after a gruelling mule trek, but now gives his name to one of the most luxurious locomotives in the world, the Hiram Bingham, our transport to this magical site.

Anticipation built from the moment we stepped onto the elegant blue and gold train, whose path from Poroy, near Cusco, to Aquas Calientes is one of the world’s greatest train routes.

Everything inside was designed to make the journey an experience in itself, exciting the senses and encouraging passengers to sit back and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime ride.

We sipped champagne as the train pulled out of the station and relaxed into our beautifully upholstered seats.

Used to dull commutes on the Tube, I had packed my iPod and Kindle, but I left them tucked away in my bag for the entire three-hour journey, too mesmerised by the green mountains towering skywards just beside the track. When we weren’t enjoying a delicious brunch at our private dining table, we went for even better views to the panoramic observation car to admire the lush greenery of the cloud forest and the rushing Urubamba River, to whose bank the train clings for much of the route.

Energised and excited, we arrived at Machu Picchu in the afternoon, just as the majority of other visitors were leaving, this impeccable timing being one of the many advantages of the Hiram Bingham journey. Photos didn’t prepare me for the feeling of walking

amidst the clouds at the sacred site; it felt like an ancient Inca heaven in the skies. Our entertaining Orient-Express guide had a comprehensive answer for any question, from the site’s history to the exotic flora and fauna found there.

We had to continue our whistle-stop tour, but Orient-Express’s Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located adjacent to the site, would make a fantastic base from which to try one of the many hikes around the area, perhaps to Wayna Picchu, a neighbouring mountain, or the original Inca Sun-Gate, where you can get an awe-inspiring aerial view of the ruins.

After leaving the train we were taken to the Hotel Monasterio in the heart of the historic city of Cusco, nestling high in the Andes mountains 3,300 metres above sea level. The building itself merits its own guided tour; originally built in 1592 on the site of an Inca palace, it’s a wonderful example of Peru’s Renaissance Colonial architecture. Walking through the stone cloisters built on different levels we felt like we were in an Escher painting.

In June this year, Orient-Express are opening a second hotel in Cusco, Palacio Nazarenas, a former palace and convent lovingly restored to showcase Peru’s finest artisans and designed with absolute comfort in mind.

On our last day, a relaxed tour took us to the city’s top locations including Sacsayhuamán (or with our English pronunciation, ‘Sexy Woman’), located on a hill above the city centre. In just seven days we’d experienced modern luxury, ancient wonders and pastoral perfection. With so much more of the country to explore, our only regret was that we had to leave so soon. n

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From Top: Landscape en route, Hotel Monasterio Junior Suite, Executive Suite at Miraflores Park Hotel

MORE INFORMATION A 7-day trip, staying in Orient-Express properties in Lima, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Cuzco, and including the Orient-Express-owned Hiram Bingham train journey to Machu Picchu, costs £3,250 per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights, private tours, transfers throughout and a shared tour of the site of Machu Picchu. For tailor-made itineraries to Peru, please contact Audley Travel on 01993 838600 or visit www.audleytravel.com/peru

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Timeless LUXURY Kate Hughes joins the Brazilian elite looking for tranquillity in Ponta Dos Ganchos

T

he first rule of paradise is to take off your watch. You won’t need it. Fly down from the vibrant mayhem of Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paolo to Brazil’s idyllic south coast and in under an hour or so you find the land that time forgot – a sweep of beautiful beaches, clear seas and rainforest scenery untroubled by the speedy modern world – and the majority of tourists. Brazilians know the charms of this stretch, but it’s still one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

We had come looking for the perfect three-day indulgent honeymoon; our destination, Ponta dos Ganchos, on a private island near Florianopolis, one of Brazil’s most exclusive beach resorts.

If you’ve come this far you might as well throw your budget to the wind and take the 30 minute helicopter transfer from the airport, as we did, ogling at the coloursaturated scenery as the pilot skimmed the coastline and pointed out Gisele Bundchen’s holiday home on the way, tucked amid the lush greenery.

It might still be a secret to most, but word travels quickly

among the uber-rich and the south coast is fast becoming the destination for the discerning megastar looking for tranquility. Ponta dos Ganchos, recently voted Best Boutique Hotel in South America at the World Travel Awards, is part of that vibe. An isolated romantic hideaway set on a bay and sandwiched between the green-blue waters of the Santa Catarina coast and Atlantic rainforest vegetation, the resort has just 25 luxurious cabanas on site.

But you don’t have to be a paparazzi dodger to appreciate the luxury of pure privacy and the feeling that the rest of the world is somewhere else, far, far away. There’s just nothing more splendid than swinging in a hammock on your own private deck, gazing out to a shimmering bay where the only thing on the horizon is a gently bobbing fishing boat.

Our Especial Villa Esmeralda bungalow was larger than most London flats, and stacked with goodies – organic snacks, espresso machine, amazing therapeutic mattress and Egyptian cotton sheets – as well as its own sauna and plunge pool.

With such touches, it’s not easy to leave the bungalow once you’ve settled into its luxurious embrace. The glamour

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seems to have a gravitational pull; fortunately there is a concierge on hand with a buggy, waiting to whisk you to lunch, once you summon up the strength to get out of your private Jacuzzi.

Food is a feast of organic cuisine from the on-site garden and fresh, locally caught fish on the seafood grill on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Santa Catarina’s famous oysters are a particular treat – this coastal area is Brazil’s oyster capital, and its mollusks are famed for their taste, texture and delicacy. For added decadence there are no set mealtimes at Ponta dos Ganchos; you eat what you want, when you want. Breakfasts in particular were a miniature gourmet festival of delicacies served in dainty portions; ultra-light blinis, quails egg croque madames, papaya mini beignets and other tiny treats, relegating the perfectly brewed cappuccinos and freshly baked croissants to mere supporting roles.

Once you’re fuelled up, there’s plenty of sunbathing and lazy swimming in the sea to take up the rest of the day. Or if you’re feeling energetic, you can choose from kayaking and sailing to ecological trails and boat trips to Anhatomirim Island or the Baía dos Golfinhos. Close to the resort you’ll find the best site for scuba diving in south Brazil; the protected biological reserve of Arvoredo Island.

Kicking back in such blissful zen, the sounds of the sea, the smell of the forest and the feel of sand underfoot don’t need too much active embellishment.

You can choose to go mountain biking and hiking, but we preferred to chill out at the beach on crisp white sunbeds, drinking cool Caipirinhas. We also lapped up the sunshine on

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the little private stone island, reached by swimming or along a wooden catwalk, until the sun set in colours as outrageous and flamboyant as the famous Brazilian Carnival itself.

My only major excursion was to the resort’s Dior spa – the only one in South America – at the tip of the peninsula, for an amazing open-air massage under a leafy canopy by the edge of the sea.

On the final night we had a private dinner on the small island in front of the beach; the mouth-watering food paired with wines that romanced the flavours of our specially created menu. While the moon hung brightly in the blue inky sky and the water lapped softly against the beach shore, we agreed Ponta dos Ganchos had definitely laid on a night sensual enough to seduce anyone. We had already fallen in love with the romance of the place, and three nights just left us wanting more. Still, now we know where paradise is. n

more information Journey Latin America specialises in tailor-made holidays and group tours to all of Latin America including Brazil. A seven-night stay in Brazil’s most exclusive resort, Ponta dos Ganchos (www.pontadosganchos.com) starts from £3,855 per person. This price includes flights from the UK, return airport transfers in Florianópolis and breakfast daily.

For further information contact Journey Latin America (020 8747 8315, www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk)

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Destination...

MENORCA Menorca offers beautiful beaches, mouth-watering cuisine, and best of all, a direct flight from London City Airport, finds Kari Rosenberg Where to stay... Hotel Carlos III Newly refurbished and just re-opened, this ultra-modern boutique hotel offers unrivalled panoramic ocean vistas from the beautiful poolside and waterfront rooms. Boasting a minimalist all-white décor with splashes of bright colour and vast spacious bathrooms with waterfall showers, Hotel Carlos III is an ideal relaxing, slowpaced and unobtrusive base from which to explore Menorca.

Located in the historic harbour of Mahón, it is only a few minutes’ walk from the village shopping centre of Es Castell, and from the picturesque Cales Fonts, a traditional small fishing harbour. www.artiemhotels.com

Where to eat... Ses Voltes Visit Ses Voltes in the town of Ciutadella and sample one or two of their scrumptious speciality Menorcan dishes: spicy sausage croquettes mixed with fluffy potato and fried to golden perfection; a tangy Mahón cheese salad with walnuts coated in a raspberry vinaigrette and a rich in tomato langoustine caldereta, a traditional local dish made with almonds and fish stock. Following on we feasted on grilled John Dory on a bed of garlic potatoes; charcoaled lamb chops with smatterings of garlic and a vanilla soufflé with moist almond cake, all washed down with some local wine. Take refuge from the sun on the shaded terrace and watch the locals pass by. www.recibaria.com/sesvoltes

What to do... Beach Hop Far less visited than Ibiza and Mallorca, Menorca has retained most of its island charm, with beautiful, white, sandy beaches and pure turquoise waters unspoilt by hordes of Brits Abroad. Pick up a kayak at Es Grau and explore the idyllic hidden coves not far from the shore. Binibequer, just south of Sant Lluis Binibequer, has a handful of tiny sandy bays, dotted with privately owned villas and apartments, and not a hotel in sight. Son Xoriguer and Cala’n Bosc are to be found south of the town of Ciutadella; two fairly small but stunning beaches, although these tend to get busy at peak season.

From top to bottom: Es Grau, cheese making, Ciutadella harbour, Church Del Carmen, Ciutadella beach

Don’t miss... Your Flight From gin and wine to the pungent local cheese; see how the local produce is made and buy a sample or three to take home.

Visit Hort de Sant Patrici, the renowned cheese manufacturer, to find out how they make the mouth-watering local delicasy, or gin distillery Xoriguer to get a taste of the popular liquor.

We headed to Binifadet winery for some tasting and demonstrating just before our flight home, depite the early hour, and enjoyed its fruity reds, sweet white dessert wines and in depth grape knowledge before catching the plane back to London City where all inclusive one way fares to Mahon are now available from £75. n

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British Airways now flies to Menorca up to three times a week from London City Airport. 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

i

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

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

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SUMMER LOVING…

Limited Edition Bowmore, Islay’s first Single Malt distillery, has released a new limited edition concoction that encapsulates its entire island home in a bottle – the Bowmore 1964.

Decanted in hand-blown bottles custom-designed by renowned Scottish glass artists, Brodie Nairn and Nichola Burns, it is priced at £8,000. The ultimate collectible for the whisky connoisseur and enthusiast, there are only 72 bottles in existence.

Flavour of the Month

PATRIOTIC PLATEAU With so much patriotism in the air this summer, Plateau is getting in on the action with a ‘Best of British’ Festival, to be held until the Paralympic Games in September. Celebrate the very best in local food, wine, cocktails and culture and sample the highest quality British produce prepared by head chef Allan Pickett with his delicious tasting menu. Make the most

of the seasonal sunshine and take your tipple on the Nyetimber Terrace overlooking Canada Place. There is also a full programme of events on offer, from a British cheese tasting and cocktail master-class, to an art exhibition and charity dinner with some of the country’s most exciting and renowned chefs.

PLATEAU, CANADA PLACE, 020 7715 7100

HELLO FRESH Ever spent the afternoon dreading the supermarket sweep and settled for pasta yet again to avoid it? Once Hello Fresh – a revolutionary new grocery delivery service that takes the fuss out of weekday cooking – descended on our desks with all the fresh ingredients we’d need for a three course dinner, we couldn’t wait to go home and get our pinnies on. Along with perfectly ripe vegetables and meat, and every seasoning and spice in the exact quantities we’d need, Hello Fresh provided interesting, healthy, quick and easy-to-follow surprise recipes, with simple step-by-step photo cards from experienced chefs. By eliminating all the time-consuming aspects of cooking, from weighing ingredients to sourcing unusual foodstuffs, we had more time to enjoy our evening and savour every delicious mouthful.

FROM £39 TO £129 A WEEK, WWW.HELLOFRESH.CO.UK

Welcome the summer in with a naughty but nice ice cream.

Zaza’s Hazelnut Coffee mixes the energy kick of espresso with the elegant scent of Italian hazelnuts and dark roasted coffee beans.

Two scoops in a cone for us please.

CANADA PLACE AND JUBILEE PLACE

Eat Smart VenuesUp, a brand new smartphone app which catalogues up to 100 of the most exclusive fine dining restaurants, bars and clubs in London, and makes coveted table and guest list reservations quick and easy to secure, is causing a storm on the smart foodie market. Get tapping.

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connoisseur food & drink

FOR ALL THE TEA IN CHINA

GREAT STEAK: No Bull

Kari Rosenberg returns to Royal China and tests out some of their meatier dishes

For a slice of the Big Apple, head to Manhattan Grill, writes Richard Brown

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Royal China, 30 Westferry Circus, E14 8RR, 020 7719 0888

London Marriott, West India Quay Hotel, 22 Hertsmere Road, E14 4ED, 020 7517 2808

hen it comes to Chinese food, I’d like to think my partner and I are somewhat connoisseurs.

Although most Monday mornings begin with empty pledges of sweet and sour abstention “I’m going to turn into a prawn dumpling!” once Sunday lunch rolls around, we succumb every single time.

Having visited the Baker Street Royal China branch for a dim-sum lunch on more than once occasion, I knew the modern Chinese eatery wasn’t your everyday prawn toast and chow mein establishment; specialising in real, delicious Chinese cuisine, i.e. food that Chinese people actually eat. And I was excited to see if dinner at the Westferry branch lived up to my expectations.

We started off with steamed chilli pork dumplings (despite previous declarations of turning into one) which were light and delicate on the outside but spicy and full of flavour on the inside, sprinkled with chilli flakes and smatterings of garlic and ginger.

These were followed by deep fried soft shell salt and pepper crab, the crisp and golden batter encasing the sweet and succulent crustacean inside. The pieces were big and bulbous, full of silky meat and not just the empty oily shell you sometimes find with tempura. We also tried the perfectly cooked sautéed scallops; golden brown on the outside and slightly translucent on the inside.

Recommended by the chef, we went for the pork belly hotpot, crispy scratching coupled with melt-in-your-mouth meat, stewed dark brown and caramelised pot with sugary sweet cabbage. Unable to resist at least one noodle dish, we went for the crispy noodles with lobster and black bean sauce, meaty and juicy, with a peppery tangy edge. This was served with a crunchy and vibrant stir fry pakchoi cooked al-dente, adding a healthy element to the somewhat decadent meal, washed down with the house red, of course.

While it rained the day we dined, the outside terrace area is great for a spot of dim-sum in the sunshine or a heady meal come evening. Already a Thursday, and with a beach holiday impending, we agreed that this Sunday we really should try to avoid Chinese food. But would we follow through? Not for all the tea in China. n

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f you happen to be a restaurant located in the heart of a financial district, it’s a shrewd move to promise to serve your punters a three course lunch in 45 minutes, or offer them their money back.

When that district happens to employ more than 100,000 people, in an area that already boasts such a wide variety of eateries, it’s also a brave decision. Get it wrong, and that’s a hell of a lot of lunches you’ve got to refund.

Blessed with a little more time than 45 minutes, we chose to explore Manhattan Grill’s A La Carte menu rather than its dedicated lunch offering. While I’m unable to confirm whether the restaurant is good for their 45-minutes-or-your-money-back word, what I can confirm, is that if you’re a lover of good seafood and hearty steak, you won’t want to limit yourself to 45 minutes anyway.

A contemporary take on a New York Steakhouse, Manhattan Grill prides itself on catering to blue-blooded carnivores and sweet-toothed dessert lovers, employing head chef Damian Trejo to do so. Situated at the base of West India Quay’s Marriott Hotel, the curving restaurant is both light and airy, and at the same time, invitingly intimate. Outside, when the weather allows it, there’s a chance to dine alfresco and enjoy some of the best waterside views on the Canary Wharf Estate.

Fine wines come courtesy of the world-renowned Baron Rothschild Estate, which, thanks to a £10,000 wine preserving system, Manhattan Grill can offer by the glass. If you’re in the mood for seafood, start with the king prawns. A substantial portion served on a bed of ice with lemon and marie rose sauce, you’ll be hard pushed to find fresher anywhere in Canary Wharf.

When it comes to steak, you have two options: either an aged Black Angus from Creekstone, Kansas, or dry-aged Scottish cuts from Inverurie. I opted for a fillet of the American variety. Though it arrived more medium than medium-rare (as I had ordered), the quality of meat shone through, up there with the very best on the estate. With nearly 50 per cent of Marriott’s clientele hailing from the other side of the pond, Manhattan Grill will be a foodie home-from-home for many of its patrons. Offering good wine and fuss-free, thoroughly appetising food expect it to do just as well amongst the native population, too. n

20% off lunch and dinner Including all drinks, wines and desserts

A new branch of the legendary Parisian brasserie which has been serving its celebrated steak frites and famous recipe sauce for over 50 years is now open in Canary Wharf.

With a simple no-choice menu of green salad and steak frites for £21 per person, it is ideal for a casual meal with friends and colleagues.

Canary Wharf branch opening hours Lunch: Monday-Thursday 11:30am-2:30pm last orders | Lunch: Friday 11:30am-2:45pm | Lunch: Saturday-Sunday 12:30pm-3:30pm Dinner: Monday 6pm-10pm | Dinner: Tuesday-Friday 6pm-10:30pm | Dinner: Saturday 6:30pm-10:30pm | Dinner: Sunday 6:30pm-10pm

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Le Relais de Venise l’Entrecote, 18-20 Mackenzie Walk , Canary Wharf, E14 4PH | Tel: 020 3475 3331 | Tube: Canary Wharf

Terms & Conditions

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20% discount dining will be applied on the food and drinks bill, excluding service, only at the Canary Wharf branch on presentation of this voucher. Offer is as stated and subject to availability. There is no cash or other alternative. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Manager’s decision is final. Only at Canary Wharf. If you do not wish to be contacted in future, please tick

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

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

LONDON HOMES&

PROPERTY SHOWCASING THE FINEST HOMES IN YOUR AREA

C O V E R I N G C A N A RY W H A R F, D O C K L A N D S , WA P P I N G & T H E C I T Y

Plan ahead

THE EXPERTS’ MARKET ADVICE

FULFIL YOUR DREAMS

Brooklyn Coffee Table, £4,577 Villiers, www.villiersbrothers.co.uk

LUXURIOUS PROPERTIES AVAILABLE NOW

The Ragged School, Southwark SE1 Impressive split level apartments

A unique opportunity to rent two impressive split level apartments individually or to take both units together. Covering 2153 sq ft (201 sq m) combined, these fantastic spaces offer a wealth of character and charm. The Ragged School is situated in the heart of historic Southwark, 5 minutes from The Globe Theatre, and 10 minutes from Waterloo. Both units have mezzanine levels and lovely private terraces.

Furnished or Unfurnished

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

£675 per apartment per week. £1,250 per week for both apartments.

LETS - CITY and CW FP 1 - 18 June 2012 - 22584

18/06/2012 17:27:47

LE

Hermitage Court, Wapping E1W Contemporary apartment A stunning apartment set in this popular portered development on Wapping High Street. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, second bedroom, second bathroom, reception room, fully fitted kitchen, wooden floors throughout, parking and south west facing roof top views.

Furnished £600 per week

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

NEO Bankside, Southwark SE1 A striking developement NEO Bankside offers world-class luxury accommodation in an excellent location adjacent to the Tate Modern and a short walk from the City. Properties are available to rent through Knight Frank. Studios-3 bedrooms, 1-3 bathrooms, 24 hour concierge service, wine cellar, business centre and future plans for a resident’s gym.

To Let Prices ranging from £450-£3,250 per week

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

LETS CW July 2012 HP p2 - 18 June 2012 - 22609

18/06/2012 17:35:55

Forge Square, Isle of Dogs E14

Orion Point, Isle of Dogs E14

An immaculately presented one bedroom apartment located on the fifth floor within the popular Forge Square development. 1 bedroom, 1 reception room, 1 bathroom, concierge. Approximately 49.6 sq m (534 sq ft).

A well proportioned two bedroom apartment offering side views to the river. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room with balcony, concierge, leisure facilities. Approximately 73.6 sq m (793 sq ft).

Leasehold

Leasehold

Guide Price: £300,000

Guide Price: £355,000

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

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

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Riverside Court, Isle of Dogs E14

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Boardwalk Place, Canary Wharf E14

A two bedroom apartment nestled on the banks of the River Thames thus enjoying fantastic views. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room with balcony, concierge. Approximately 75.6 sq m (814 sq ft).

A three bedroom apartment located within minutes walking distance of the Canary Wharf Estate. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, 2 private balconies, concierge, private parking. Approximately 93.5 sq m (1006 sq ft).

Leasehold

Leasehold

Guide Price: £425,000

Guide Price: £500,000

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

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

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Seacon Tower, Isle of Dogs E14

Waterman Building, Limehouse E14

A well positioned apartment offering far reaching views of the River, City and Canary Wharf. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, 2 balconies, concierge, leisure facilities. Approximately 61.8 sq m (666 sq ft).

An extremely well presented two bedroom apartment offering stunning river views from all principal rooms. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room with balcony, concierge, leisure facilities. Approximately 89 sq m (958 sq ft).

Leasehold

Leasehold

Guide Price: £500,000

Guide Price: £565,000

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

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

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

West India Quay, Canary Wharf E14

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Brightlingsea Place, Limehouse E14

A luxurious interior designed duplex apartment within this prestigious landmark building. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, concierge, private parking. Approximately 201.9 sq m (2174 sq ft).

A stunning townhouse arranged over four floors with an entrance via the gated communal gardens. 4 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, 3 bathrooms, patio, balcony and private parking. Approximately 171.7 sq m (1849 sq ft).

Leasehold

Freehold

Guide Price: £1,850,000

Guide Price: £1,250,000

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

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

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

1 2

savills.co.uk

LANDMARK EAST, e14

BERKELEY TOWER, e14

Reception room ø kitchen/dining area ø 3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø concierge ø terrace ø protected parking ø 173 sq m (1,861 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø concierge ø balcony ø 2 parking spaces ø 156 sq m (1,680 sq ft)

Guide £1.599 million Leasehold

Guide £1.35 million Leasehold

3 4

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

DISCOVERY DOCK, e14

MILLHARBOUR, e14

Reception room ø open plan kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø 2 terraces ø concierge ø parking space ø 169 sq m (1,823 sq ft)

Reception room ø dining room ø kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø terrace ø balcony ø 2 parking spaces ø 128 sq m (1,373 sq ft)

Guide £1.2 million Leasehold

Guide £1.075 million Leasehold

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

1 2

savills.co.uk

ST HILDAS WHARF, e1w

STEPNEY GREEN, e1

Reception room ø contemporary kitchen ø 4 double bedrooms ø 3 en suite bathrooms ø terrace ø 254 sq m (2,736 sq ft)

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

Asking £1,999,995 Share of Freehold

Guide £1.75 million Freehold

3 4

Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800

ST JOHNS WHARF, e1w

THE JAM FACTORY, se1

Reception room ø kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 2 balconies ø concierge ø protected parking ø 183 sq m (1,966 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø bespoke architect-design ø factory conversion ø landscaped ø 223 sq m (2,400 sq ft)

Guide £1.25 million Share of Freehold

Guide £1.2 million Leasehold

Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800

1 2

savills.co.uk

BALTIMORE WHARF, e14

NO1 WEST INDIA QUAY, 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

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø cloakroom ø views of The City/Olympic Village ø allocated parking ø 24hr porterage

£415 per week Furnished

£795 per week Flexible furnishings

3 4

Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500

Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500

POINT HILL, se10

LANDMARK WEST, e14

4 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø entrance hall ø reception room ø study ø fully integrated kitchen ø 2 further bathrooms ø utility room ø garden

3 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony with river/City views ø allocated parking ø onsite leisure facilities ø 24hr porterage

£795 per week Unfurnished

£1,150 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

HARLEQUIN COURT, e1w

CAPITAL WHARF, e1w

1 bedroom ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø balcony overlooking the marina ø allocated parking ø 24hr porterage

2 bedrooms (both en suite) ø reception area ø kitchen ø further w.c. ø terrace with river views ø allocated parking ø 24hr porterage

£595 per week Furnished

£650 per week Furnished

3 4

Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800

SWAN COURT, e1w

CINNABAR WHARF, e1w

2 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø reception room ø kitchen ø further bathroom ø allocated parking ø 24hr porterage ø marina views

Penthouse ø 3 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø reception room ø kitchen ø further bathroom ø 2 roof terraces with river views ø allocated parking ø porterage

£760 per week Flexible furnishings

£1,100 per week Furnished

Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Landmark East, E14 A three bedroom, two bathroom 1625ft² apartment on the 43rd floor boasting stunning views. Luxury finishes and high specification with benefits including 24 hour concierge service, private gymnasium and excellent transport choices. Moments from Canary Wharf and transport.

£1,550,000 Leasehold

Horizon Building, E14 A luxurious three bedroom, three bathroom 2200ft² penthouse with Panoramic views and large terraces. An ultra-contemporary residence with state of the Art Multi-Media system and luxury finshes. Two secure parking spaces are included with the property.

£1,650,000 Leasehold

11 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4HE

020 7715 9700 joneslanglasalle.co.uk

Charthouse, E14

£270pw

• Bright and spacious studio • Popular riverside development • Porter and leisure facilities • Mudchute DLR. 30th June

Dundee Wharf, E14

• Two beds two baths • 11th floor dock views • Wrap around terrace • South Quay DLR

£320pw

• One bed 10th floor apartment • Courtyard and Canary Wharf views • 24 hour porter • South Quay DLR. Available Now.

£380pw

• Spacious one bedroom • West facing river views • Fashionable location • 24hr porter and gym

Ability Place, London, E14

Indescon Court, E14

Bartholomew Court, E14

Landmark East, E14 • Two bedroom apartment • 41st floor south & west facing • Panoramic river views • 24hr concierge and gym

£340pw

• One bed apartment • Marina views • Walk to Canary Wharf • Blackwall DLR

£390pw

Arran House, E14

£550pw

• Stunning three bedroom apartment • Dock, Thames and Canary Wharf views • Allocated parking and garage • Close to Canary Wharf and Blackwall DLR

• Two bedroom apartment • Newly refurbished • 1st floor, private terrace • Allocated parking space

£565pw

Boardwalk Place, E14

£590pw

Landmark West, E14

£1,100pw

• Three beds two baths • 15th Floor Thames views • 24hr concierge, gym • Heron Quay DLR

dockland.sales@eu.jll.co.uk

homes & property

OLYMPICS SHOWCASE Uniquely Stylish THOSE LOOKING TO BENEFIT FROM THE WONDERS OF GREENWICH AND ITS OLYMPIC LEGACY SHOULD CONSIDER THE STUNNING VERTEX TOWER, SAYS LANA JORDAN

T

his July, the beauty and amenities of Greenwich will attract the world spotlight as the setting for the equestrian events of the Olympic Games, enticing wouldbe residents to the area who want to benefit from the spectacular sporting legacy.

Among the opportunities available to prospective buyers is The Vertex Tower, the focal point of the already popular Greenwich Creekside development

by Telford Homes. The 16-storey building has an eye-catching angular façade which distinguishes it as a contemporary and sophisticated scheme and a uniquely desirable address. The building comprises 72 one, two and three bedroom homes which will be available from this month. Its sheer scale means that many of the apartments on the upper floors

boast spectacular views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf.

Each apartment boasts high quality fixtures and fittings and is naturally decorated with solid wood veneer flooring in the living room and hallway, contemporary ceramic tiling in the kitchen and bathrooms and warm carpeting in the bedrooms.

Telford Homes’ commitment to high specification finishes also means that the apartments are equipped with integrated Smeg appliances as standard in the kitchens, which are created by London designer Urban Myth. The sleek white bathroom suites by Roca are accented with chrome Hansgrohe accessories.

However, it is important to point out that such universally-appealing finishes have not stripped

The Vertex Tower of character. The imaginative architecture gifts the rooms with generous but interesting shapes and floor-to-ceiling windows which flood the properties with light, enhance the sense of size and make the most of the vistas.

While this means that the homes are modern and stylish in their existing state, of course the fact that they are ready to move into makes them fantastic buy-to-let investments too and a variety of onsite facilities should also appeal to potential tenants.

Residents at Greenwich Creekside benefit from a 24-hour concierge service and have the option of secured basement car parking and ample bicycle storage. The Meridian Fitness members-only gymnasium will open soon on the ground floor of Greenwich Creekside’s Adagio Apartments, along with a nursery that will provide experienced childcare for working parents. These added extras have really appealed to the broad range of buyers attracted to the development so far.

In addition to Greenwich Creekside’s apartments, it is the location that has proven to be a big draw for buyers. It is conveniently located within a ten minute walk of Greenwich town centre, which has a huge amount to offer from national historic treasures to vibrant bars and restaurants.

Exceptional rail links offer rapid access to London Bridge, Canary Wharf and Stratford with Cutty Sark and Greenwich DLR stations a five-minute walk away and Greenwich Mainline station also nearby.

Pedestrians and cyclists can use the Greenwich Foot Tunnel that runs under the River Thames to reach the Isle of Dogs at Island Gardens. n

SOMETHING SPECIAL The Vertex Tower’s exclusive two and three-bedroom penthouse apartments will be unveiled at a special VIP event at Greenwich Creekside on 21 July 2012. Ranging in size from 1,113 sq ft to 1,241 sq ft, The Vertex Tower’s four penthouses have exceptionally spacious open-plan living spaces with panoramic views towards Canary Wharf and Greenwich Town Centre. Each home boasts one or two sun-drenched roof terraces that are perfect for outside entertaining.

Apartments at The Vertex Tower are priced up to £895,000 The Vertex Tower at Greenwich Creekside 0208 694 8186 www.greenwichcreekside.com

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homes & property

LUXURY LIVING – On the water ONE OF THE ISLE OF WIGHT’S MOST PROMINENT DEVELOPMENTS IS PROVING POPULAR WITH RESIDENTS, SAYS LANA JORDAN

D

avina Bullimore and David Bradley both live extremely busy lives, so finding the perfect weekend retreat for them to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle was essential for them both.

David, who is chief executive officer of Longleat is based in Bath during the week, while Davina, who runs an image consultancy, is often based in Winchester so they were keen to find a place they could come together and relax at weekends.

Davina comments: “We both own a number of properties, but were keen to find somewhere where we could go at weekends and get away from it all.

We both love the water and enjoy cycling, so the Isle of Wight is just perfect for us.

“We have been visiting the island for a number of years and were keen to buy a property there but getting the best location was very important to us.

We noticed a few years ago that apartments were going to be built on Queens Road and we were very interested, so kept an eye on the development.

“When Vantage Point launched, we decided to take a look at the show apartment. I lived in the Caribbean for many years and used to be a chef on a small charter boat so the water and the tranquillity of it has always been a major part of my life. I don’t sail anymore but love the idea of living close to it.

“As soon as we walked into the show apartment I fell in love with it and knew we had to live here.

The panoramic views are breath-taking, with the apartments overlooking the water and the attention to detail and specification within the apartment is also superb.

“The location was also a key selling point for us. It is the best location on the Isle of Wight and just perfect for what we need. We are now able to come to the island at weekends and escape from everything — it is like coming away on holiday! It only takes us an hour to get here from Winchester and we are only five minutes from the ferry terminal. We also have a small car on the island which allows us to travel around.”

Nestled in the heart of the UK’s premier yachting centre, Vantage Point is considered to be one of the most stunning and best located developments the Isle of Wight has ever seen. With unrivalled views across the Solent, Vantage Point is situated on the waterfront on Queen’s Road, Cowes.

The contemporary architecture of the buildings

makes the development a distinctive addition to the waterfront in the famous sailing town. The homes have been meticulously designed to maximise light and the panoramic views, with the glass front of the development providing a striking kerbside appeal and the huge feature windows allowing the apartments the full benefit of the stunning waterfront setting.

Only six luxury two bedroom, two bathroom apartments remain for sale at this waterfront scheme, with prices starting from £750,000. With the sailing season fast approaching, Cowes will soon be thriving with bustling crowds and live entertainment as part of the world famous yachting regatta — Cowes Week and Round the Island Race.

Otherwise known as the jewel of England’s South coast, the Isle of Wight is one of the UK’s sunniest and warmest places boasting 13 award-winning beaches and endless picturesque scenery. The island also boasts plenty of history with the Royal Yacht Squadron dating back to Tudor times whilst the nearby Osborne House was once the seaside holiday home of Queen Victoria.

Links back to the mainland couldn’t be better.

Vantage Point is around 500 yards from West Cowes Ferry Terminal where the high-speed catamaran crosses regularly to Southampton whilst the vehicle ferry can be found at East Cowes. n www.vantagepointcowes.co.uk 07815 633101

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homes & property

PROPERTY SHOWCASE Charm and Character

A gorgeous Grade-II listed Georgian house in Spitalfields has become available though Knight Frank Wapping. The double-fronted property retains many original features including wood panelling and sash windows and is arranged over five floors offering the space and style of a luxurious family home. There are five bedrooms including two with en-suite bathrooms and five stunning reception rooms with handsome wooden floors and high ceilings which work flexibly as grand drawing rooms, studies and libraries.

A cloakroom, utility room and wine cellar on the lower ground floor further enhance the property while a well-established, walled patio garden offers valuable outside space and can be viewed from the kitchen, itself a large, high-end design incorporating a breakfast table, Rangemaster hob, double oven and double butler’s sink.

The house is situated in the prestigious Fournier Street Conservation area, within close proximity of the Square Mile. n

SPITALFIELDS, E1 ÂŁ2.65M FREEHOLD Knight Frank Wapping www.knightfrank.co.uk/wapping

020 7480 6848 118

homes & property

EXPERT COMMENT SALES:

LETTINGS:

International Appeal

Remaining Optimistic

JOANNA BEALE, ASSOCIATE AT KNIGHT FRANK

GARY HALL, PARTNER AND LETTINGS HEAD AT

IN WAPPING COMMENTS ON THE TRENDS IN THE

KNIGHT FRANK IN WAPPING, COMMENTS ON THE

RESIDENTIAL SALES MARKET

TRENDS IN THE RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS MARKET

Wapping and Limehouse are attracting an increasingly international market with buyers from all over the world focusing their search here as the year goes on. Since the beginning of this month we have agreed sales to Chinese, Belgium, Russian, Dutch and French applicants who have been in the press all month for their love of our great city.

With 245 offices in 43 countries across six continents, and 556,000 visitors per month to our global residential search, which is available in eight languages, we are well placed to manage the exciting front line of international demand which is further enhanced by the London 2012 Games just around the corner.

No doubt the fate of the Eurozone has set some property buyers and sellers on edge and confidence levels have stuttered a little as new turmoil transpires, but London property is still viewed as a safe haven to those in the Eurozone and the relatively affordable area of Docklands is attracting buyers from all over Europe hunting for a tangible asset outside of the Euro.

However, according to the most recent Bank of England figures, lending to some first time buyers has toughened, with the average mortgage with 25 per cent deposit now paying 3.66 per cent up from 2.92 per cent last September. This is making it tough for the usual first time buyers wanting to live close to work to break into the market. Despite this, there are still many of them looking, but the availability of property continues to be a problem and this, partnered with the competition from international buyers, leaves many frustrated buyers in the ÂŁ400k-ÂŁ800k market.

The lack of availability might possibly be because many home owners have decided to keep their Docklands flats for quick and easy access to Stratford later in the month and others have set up high yielding short let deals until the end of September. This may mean a good amount of new stock coming on the market as we go in to the autumn. Although we hope so, this could have an adverse effect on prices if the tables turn and supply outstrips demand. n

Prime central London rents increased in April for the first time in six months. Although the rise was just 0.1 per cent and followed falls totalling 0.8 per cent in the six months preceeding March, rents have now risen by 1.2 per cent over the past year.

Unfortunately they then fell again in May by 0.3 per cent and are now just 0.2 per cent higher than in May last year. This is undoubtedly due to the uncertainty in the City employment market. Here, there are many overseas workers employed by UK companies and with this number falling in the last year, the rental market in these prime central London areas has felt the repercussions.

In Prime London however, which comprises prime central London together with the City and fringe areas such as Wapping, there was a 2.2 per cent rise in rents the three months to the end of May, with a 2.6 per cent rise in the six month period to the end of May. Rents in this area were also recorded to be up 3.2 per cent on the year. But landlords should not expect a rapid rise in rents in the next few months, as demand is currently failing to keep pace with supply.

Although new property instructions were up 56 per cent, and new tenancy starts were up 40 per cent in the three months to April compared to the same period in 2011, new tenant registrations were up by just five per cent and property viewings up by 15 per cent.

This can be explained by the continued lull in the City employment market and many restricted budgets, both individual and corporate.

Our view remains that we will see a modest growth in rents in 2012, before a more sustained recovery in 2013. We anticipate that further demand will come in the summer as families look for new homes before September and the estimated 102,000 overseas university students come to London in August. n

Knight Frank Wapping 020 7480 6848 www.knightfrank.co.uk/wapping

Knight Frank Wapping 020 7480 6848 www.knightfrank.co.uk/wapping

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homes & property

COMPANY PROFILE AFTER A SUCCESSFUL YEAR, SARAH GRETTON, HEAD OF SAVILLS WATERFRONT, REFLECTS ON HER FIRST YEAR RUNNING THE DEPARTMENT AND EXPLAINS WHY THE RIVER IS THE BEST PLACE TO LIVE

S

avills Waterfront celebrated its one year anniversary with a river cruise along the Thames last month. The event was a great success with over 100 attendees including press, clients and Savills agents who were served champagne and canapés whilst sailing along the Thames, all the way from Tower Hill up to Canary Wharf, then down to Putney and Wandsworth, before returning to Tower Hill.

We specialise in properties overlooking the Thames and, as we have grown increasingly busy, we have recently added Fran Moynihan to the team. Savills has been selling and letting properties on the riverside for over 30 years from the 11 established offices located on both the north and south banks of the River Thames, covering over 40 miles of riverside property in 158 developments.

A staggering £80m worth of riverside property was sold in 2011 and £1.8m of property let, stretching between Richmond and Canary Wharf. The Waterfront Department also generated the sale of a Battersea property to an applicant registered with our Chelsea office, which is an example of the benefit of the waterfront link.

In addition, prime penthouses in Vauxhall and Battersea have been bought by applicants who were originally only looking in St. John’s Wood and Hampstead and would have never considered the riverside, until they were mesmerised by the spectacular views.

The main appeal of living on the river is the amazing light and space, with the expanse of river reflecting the light back into a property and the added bonus that it will never be built on or developed. For me the prime central spots on the river are between Albert and Battersea Bridge; the major river fronted developments of Albion Riverside, Riverside One, Waterside Point and Albert Bridge House all boast great views across the river to Chelsea, which is within walking distance.

Our Sloane Street and Battersea offices handle fantastic rental investments in Grosvenor Waterside, St George’s Wharf and Chelsea Bridge Wharf in SW8 which are extremely popular while our Fulham and Chelsea offices deal with Imperial Wharf and Chelsea Harbour which attract buyers who wish to stay north of the river.

Most developments offer convenient on-site amenities including a professional concierge service, supermarket, pool, gym, dry cleaners and pharmacy, not to mention the lock-up and leave lifestyle and secure underground parking which many overseas buyers are attracted by.

Our Waterfront Department not only handle the spectacular modern developments in Canary Wharf and Docklands, but also beautiful family homes which offer a tranquil lifestyle while still being close to the heart of London. Anyone one looking for fabulous views, gardens, more traditional architecture or quaint cottages should contact our Chiswick, Barnes, Putney and Richmond offices as they are experts in these areas, with local knowledge about schools, transport links, amenities and everything that London waterside properties have to offer. n

Savills Waterfront www.savills.co.uk/waterfront 020 8877 4817 120

London's Finest Properties

LETTINGS

Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

SALES

Caspian Wharf, Yeo Street, E3

Pan Peninsula, South Quay, E14

• Stunning one bedroom/one bathroom apartment • Exceptional specification • 24hr concierge • Residents health spa and sky bar • Seconds from DLR and Tube

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E14

• 15th floor Two bedroom/two bathroom • All rooms river facing and balcony • Beautifully presented • 24 hr concierge and leisure facilities • Moments from Blackwall DLR

• Studio Apartment • Fully Furnished • 2nd Floor • Concierge Service • Close to Local Amenities • Walking Distance to Canary Wharf

• One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 2nd Floor • Balcony • Nr. Stratford's Olympic Park • Nr. Langdon Park DLR

£285.00 per week

£325.00 per week

£434,999

£519,950

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

Ceram Court, Bow, E3

Aquarius House, St George Wharf, SW8

Flagstaff House, St George Wharf, SW8

• One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 22nd Floor • Stunning Views • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. South Quay DLR

• Brand New Two Bedroom Apartment • Available Now • Balcony • Fully Furnished • Balcony • Nr. Stratford's Olympic Park

• 11th floor • Immaculate one bed/bathroom apartment • High specification throughout • Balcony • 24hr Concierge • Moments from tube

• 14th floor • Two bedroom/two bathroom • Balcony • Views to Shard and South London • 24hr Concierge • Moments from tube

£395.00 per week

£430.00 per week

£525,000

£579,950

Cobalt Point, Lanterns Court, E14

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

Duchess House, Warren Street, Fitzrovia, W1

Drake House, St George Wharf, SW8

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • Balcony • 13th Floor • Parking Available • Nr. South Quay DLR

£465.00 per week

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 6th Floor • Parking Available • 24hr Concierge Service • Walking distance to Canary Wharf

• Stunning one bedroom/one bathroom apartment • Incredible central location • Moments from tube and Regents Park • Exceptional specification • Lift

• Outstanding two bedroom riverside apartment • Extensive terrace with unparalleled views • Beautifully presented • 24hr concierge • Exceptional transport links

£540.00 per week

£625,000

£740,000

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

RES LETTERHEAD:Layout 1 10/10/2011 16:45 Page 1

LOUDRES LET

LOUDRES LETTERHEAD:Layout 1 10/10/2011 16:45 Page 1

Galaxy Building, Westferry Road, E14 • • • •

Large One Bedroom Parking Modern development Porter

Wheatsheaf Close, Mudchute, E14

• • • •

One bedroom Parking Close to Mudchute DLR Excellent First time buy

£265,000

£299,995

Berglen Court, Limehouse, E14

Dundee Wharf, Limehouse E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Parking 24hour concierge Marina view

£500,000

Dundee Wharf, Limehouse, E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Direct River view Concierge Parking

£600,000

• • • •

Perry Court, Westferry Road, E14 • • • •

Two Double bedrooms River facing Close to transport links Secure parking

£389,999

Two Double bedrooms Immaculate condition Water view Parking

Proton Tower, Canary Wharf, E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms East India DLR Sub Penthouse Large private terrace

£500,000

£540,000

Blyths Wharf, Narrow Street, E14

Limehouse Wharf, Narrow street, E14

• • • •

Freehold House Direct river views Gated development Four double bedrooms

£1,850,000

020 7538 9250

• • • •

Over 2000 Square foot Warehouse conversion Three double bedrooms High specification

£1,650,000

www.lourdes-estates.com

Lourdes Estate Agents, 96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP

UDRES LETTERHEAD:Layout 1 10/10/2011 16:45 Page 1

LOUDRES LETTERHEAD:Layout 1 10/10/2011 16:45 Page 1

Western Beach, Royal Docks, E16 • • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fully furnished Allocated parking

Zenith Building, Limehouse, E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fully furnished Allocated parking

Jefferson Building, Westferry Road, E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fully furnished Leisure facilities

£385 per week

£425 per week

£430 per week

Berglen Court, Limehouse, E14

New Providence Wharf, E14

Ability Place, South Quay, E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Marina views Allocated parking

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms River views Leisure facilities

£465 per week

£500 per week

Dunbar Wharf, Narrow Street, E14

Dundee Wharf, Limehouse, E14

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Unfurnished River views

£550 per week

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Unfurnished River views

£575 per week

020 7538 9250

• • • •

Two double bedrooms Two bathrooms Fully furnished Water views

£525 per week

Basin Approach, Limehouse, E14 • • • •

Three/four bedroom house Furnished or unfurnished Marina views Integral garage

£950 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 ■ ■ ■

020 7519 5900 info@alanselby.co.uk www.alanselby.co.uk

■ ■ ■

Leisure facilities 24hr concierge River views

Hutchings Wharf, E14

New Providence 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

£374,995 Two bedroom Secured parking

■ ■ ■

£424,995 Fourth floor Secured parking

■ ■ ■

West facing balcony Day porter River views

New Providence Wharf, E14 ■ ■ ■

£424,995 Two bedroom premier apartment Fourth floor

■ ■ ■

Wraparound balcony Leisure facilities 24hr concierge

Wingfield Court, E14 ■ ■ ■

£425 per week Two bedroom apartment Fully furnished

■ ■ ■

Two bathrooms Balcony Secured parking

Lovegrove Walk, E14 ■ ■ ■

£370 per week Two double bedrooms Third floor

■ ■ ■

Balcony with dock views Offered fully furnished Parking available

Jefferson Building, E14 ■ ■ ■

Constable House, E14 ■ ■ ■

£385 per week One double bedroom Fully furnished

■ ■ ■

Balcony Leisure facilities Secured parking

£430 per week Two bedroom apartment Furnished to a high standard

■ ■ ■

Two bathrooms Secured parking Leisure facilities

Pierpoint Building, E14 ■ ■ ■

£525 per week Two bedroom Seventh floor

■ ■ ■

Furnished Balcony river / City views Two modern bathrooms

Franklyn James

Sales

Lanterns Court, Canary Wharf, E14 £325,000

Gray Court, Stepney, E1

Conveniently located within a short walking distance from Canary Wharf is this wonderfully presented fourth floor, one double bedroom apartment, within a much sought after development with 24hr concierge service, gym facilities and secure underground parking space.

Located in the heart of east London, this stunning two double bedroom, top floor apartment boasts a generously sized and modern interior with far reaching views of Canary Wharf. Other benefits include a private balcony and secure underground parking.

Conveniently located within a short walking distance from Canary Wharf is this wonderfully presented fourth floor, one double bedroom apartment, within a much sought after development with 24hr concierge service, gym facilities and secure underground parking space.

Ocean Wharf, Isle of Dogs, E14

New Providence Wharf, E14

Kings House, Limehouse, E14

£349,995

£340,000

£459,950

Fonda Court, Westferry, E14

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.

With views of the River Thames towards the Millennium/02 Dome, this wonderfully presented apartment on the 11th floor, with private balcony, valet parking, access to swimming pool & gym facilities and is available with no onward chain.

Free Trade Wharf, Wapping, E1W

The Listed Building, Wapping, E1W £650,000 Pinnacle II, Limehouse, E14

£579,999

Available chain free, is this incredibly spacious and immaculately presented, three double bedroom apartment benefitting from a large reception, a private balcony, secure parking, a concierge service, as well as on site gym & swimming pool.

Canary Wharf 020 7005 6080

A sympathetically-converted two double bedroom duplex apartment, situated within a Grade II listed former warehouse alongside the River Thames, boasting 1500sq.ft of living space, garage parking, a concierge service and on-site gym & swimming pool.

Bow 020 8983 2930

£345,000

£465,000

Located in the heart of Narrow Street, Limehouse, is this wonderful two double bedroom second floor apartment offered with no onward chain.

Boasting a generously sized modern interior, two bathrooms, two balconies and a magnificent communal roof terrace.

£739,999

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

Birchfield Street, Westferry, E14

£340 pw

Ocean Wharf, Isle of Dogs, E14

Lettings

£365 pw

Birchfield Street, Westferry, E14

£400 pw

Extremely spacious one double bedroom top floor apartment with en-suite to master and an additional guest bathroom, double height ceilings, open plan kitchen and large windows in reception.

The property is located very close to Westferry DLR station.

A bright and airy one bedroom apartment with views of the River Thames. The property boasts a private balcony looking over the river, fully fitted kitchen, a large bedroom, secure gated parking and a concierge.

Extremely spacious two double bedroom period apartment with lovely high ceilings, large double sash windows and a large separate kitchen. The property has been maintained to an excellent standard. Located closely to Westferry DLR station, available part/fully furnished.

Cobalt Point, Canary Wharf, E14

Antilles Bay, Canary Wharf, E14

New Atlas Wharf, Docklands, E14

£410 pw

£475 pw

£510 pw

New two double bedroom apartment located within this luxury development. The property comprises of a large open plan kitchen/ reception with balcony, two large bedrooms, luxury bathroom, concierge and located minutes from Canary Wharf.

Located on the first floor is this stunning two double bedroom apartment with direct views of the dock and Canary Wharf. The property has a spacious lounge leading to private balcony, separate fitted kitchen and two modern bathrooms.

A truly stunning and incredibly large two double bedroom/two bathroom apartment situated on the sixth floor benefitting from stunning river views, two balconies, a spacious reception, an integrated kitchen, a concierge service and an on-site gym.

Montague Mews, Bow, E3

Albert Mews, Limehouse, E14

Pump House, Canada Water, SE16

£590 pw

£650 pw

A superb 3/4 bedroom town house located minutes from Mile End Station and Queen Mary University.

Property comprises of three double bedrooms, a spacious reception, a large integrated kitchen diner and two modern bathrooms.

A very rare four bedroom house situated on Narrow street which has contemporary and neutral décor throughout , modern fitted kitchen, three bathrooms, good sized rear garden, off street parking and a short walk from both Limehouse and Westferry DLR Stations.

Canary Wharf 020 7005 6080

Bow 020 8983 2930

£675 pw

An extremely spacious three double bedroom property in one of the most prestigious developments in Canada Water. Accessed via a a private pathway, the property benefits from three double bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large open plan lounge/kitchen.

Limehouse 020 7791 1777

enquiries@franklynjames.co.uk

Sales • New Homes • Lettings • Property Management • Valuations

Jackman House Watts Street,Wapping E1W

Burr Close,Wapping E1W

Price: £324,995

Price: £429,999

Gowers Walk, Aldgate E1

Capstan Court Wapping Wall,Wapping E1W

Price: £429,995

Price: £599,995

2 Double bedroom apartment. Fully fitted kitchen. Bathroom. Separate wc. Laminated wood flooring. Double glazing. Close to Wapping station and local bus routes and amenities.

2 Double bedrooms, 4th floor apartment with balcony. This property offers an open plan fitted kitchen, reception & bathroom. Laminated wood flooring. Situated close to Aldgate East station and Tower Hill.

2 Double bedroom duplex apartment, fronting the historic St Katharine’s Dock. Situated within close proximity to the City and within easy access to Canary Wharf. ‘Waitrose’ supermarket is nearby. This property offers a fitted kitchen/ diner, reception, bathroom and balcony.

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.

Situated close to Wapping station. Parking. Porterage.

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

Codling Close,Wapping E1W

Rental Price: £330 PW

Rental Price: £450 PW

Hermitage Court Knighten Street,Wapping E1W

Osprey Court Star Place,Wapping E1W

Rental Price: £520 PW

Rental Price: £815 PW

Converted warehouse apartment within the sought after Burrell’s Wharf development. 1 bedroom apartment. 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. Ideally situated for the DLR & the river bus

Modern 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment within this gated development. Day porterage. Communal gardens. Fitted kitchen. Spacious reception. Balcony. Secure parking. Close to ‘Waitrose’ supermarket.

Within easy access to the City & Wapping station.

West Wapping location. Modern 2/ 3 bedroom modern house (3rd bedroom study). Canal side development. Fitted kitchen. Reception.

Bathroom. Garden. Parking. Close to St Katharine’s dock and Tower Hill.

Good condition throughout. Can be furnished/ un furnished.

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

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

River Habitat RiverHabitat.co.uk

Property Brokers

SiBThOrPe rOAD, leWiShAM, Se12

ChArlTON lANe, ChArlTON, Se7

VeNiCe COrTe, reNAiSSANCe, Se13

• Two bed terraced house • 672 sq ft • large rear garden • Good transportation links

• Three bed Victorian terraced house • rear garden • fully furnished • 1266 sq ft over two storeys

£231 p/w

TOO lATe - leT

£340 p/w

ZeNiTh, 600 COMMerCiAl rOAD, e14

DelTA, DePTfOrD, Se8

• Two bedroom apartment • located on fourth floor • Beautiful views from balcony • Available end of June.

• Brand New Development • Studio, One and Two Bedroom Apartments • Perfectly located Development • Very few units remaining

DiSCOVer DOCk eAST, SOuTh QuAy SQuAre, e14

£450 p/w

frOM £190,000

£650 p/w

ONe WeST iNDiA QuAy, 24 herTSMere rOAD , e14

COlDhArBOur, iSle Of DOGS, e14

BelGrAVe COurT, CANAry riVerSiDe, e14

• One bed, one bath apartment • 17th floor with beautiful views • Open plan living and kitchen space • Wall to wall glass on front and side £650 p/w

• Three bed riverside duplex • Three roof terraces overlooking the Thames • Secure parking and minutes from Canary Wharf • Available from August 2012 £675 p/w

• Brand new two bedroom apartment • Terrace stretches whole length of apartment • fully furnished • Available end of June

• Two bed, two bath apartment • Circa 850 sq feet with Balcony • Situated on the third floor • Secure parking

• Two bed, two bath apartment • Situated on the first floor • Balcony with views over river Thames • Secure parking £700 p/w

sales

Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Regency Court, South Woodford, E18

• Studio with balcony • Furnished • Brand new development • 24 Hour concierge • Gym & swimming pool • Allocated parking • Excellent transport links

• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Overlooking communal gardens • Fitted kitchen • Secure parking • 24 Hour concierge • Close to station

£285,000

£289,950

£345,000

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Pan Peninsula, Canary Wharf, E14

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Balcony • 18th Floor • Private riverside development • Private underground parking • Leisure facilities on site • River and O2 area view

£495,000

• 2 Bedroom, 2 bathroom • Balcony • 22nd Floor, stunning views • Brand new & prestigious development • Gym, swimming pool & spa • Private resident cinema • Valet parking

£685,000

Pan Peninsula West Tower, Canary Wharf, E14 • Studio, 1 bathroom • Balcony • 30th Floor, stunning views • Brand new & prestigious development • Gym & swimming pool & spa • Close to transport • Private resident cinema

• 1,674 Sq. ft.

• 3 Bedroom premier apartment • 3 Bathrooms • 14th Floor • Stunning views • Wrap-around riverside balcony • Secure underground parking • Leisure facilities on-site

£1,150,000

SALES | LETTINGS | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT | VALUATIONS 1-2 Laybourne House | Admirals Way | Canary Wharf | London | E14 9UH

enquiries@henrywiltshire.co.uk www.henrywiltshire.co.uk

lettings

020 7001 9160

Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Baltimore Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Bridge House, Canary Wharf, E14

• Studio • 1 Bathroom • Modern development • Furnished • 24 Hour concierge • Gym & swimming pool • Allocated parking • Excellent transport links • Available now

• 1 Bedroom • 1 Bathroom • Modern living development • Furnished • 24 Hour concierge • Gym & swimming pool • Allocated parking • Excellent transport links • Available mid July

• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Newly refurbished & unique Grade II listed house • Quiet residential street • Communal garden • Raised ground floor • Fully furnished • Allocated parking space • Available now

£325 p/w

£430 p/w

£450 p/w

Montague Mews, Mile End, E3

Discovery Dock East, Canary Wharf, E14

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

• 3 Double bedroom town house • 2 Bathrooms • Master bedroom with en suite • Minutes from Mile End station & Queen Mary University • Available beginning June

• 2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • Fully furnished • Balcony • 24 Hour concierge • Gym & swimming pool • Available now

• 3 Bedroom premier apartment • 3 Bathrooms • 14th Floor, stunning views • Wrap-around riverside balcony • Secure underground parking • Leisure facilities on-site • Available on short and long term lets • All bills inclusive

£700 p/w

£900 p/w

£590 p/w

SPECIAL OFFER FOR LANDLORDS: 50% off management fee for all new fully managed properties.

8% for a limited time only. Email enquiries@henrywiltshire.co.uk or call 07908 807 857 for more information.

FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY NEEDS

Sales – Lettings – Management Canary Wharf Office - 020 7538 5554 Surrey Quays Office - 020 7231 8160

www.hollandproperties.co.uk

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STATE OF THE MARKET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL ALASDAIR CARPENTER, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LOURDES ESTATE AGENTS, COMMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MARKET

In recent months we have seen a marked increase in demand in the prime Docklands residential property market. Our sales team are registering more and more clients with a budget in excess of £1m. In fact the number of registered applicants with a budget in excess of £1m has increased month on month for the last six months.

It is hard to pinpoint any logical reason as to why demand for prestige property in Docklands is on the increase. For the affluent clients that have the ability to pay a substantial deposit, mortgage funding is still very attractive, as the Bank of England base rate remains firmly fixed at 0.5 per cent. This, coupled with the unattractive returns offered by banks for money on deposit, may be encouraging would-be buyers to take the

Q&A

Lourdes Estate Agents 020 7518 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com

WITH JAMES BEARRYMAN, DIRECTOR AT FRANKLYN JAMES How should I begin preparing to re-let my property after the Olympic Games?

In anticipation of the Olympics, a surge in building took place in the hosting boroughs in London and this reverberated in surrounding areas. Post Olympics, we are expecting a lot of stock to return to the market and with the expiry of ‘the stamp duty holiday’ this means we could well be facing a sluggish climate in the property market. With the abundance of property coming on to the market for the Olympics, this sluggish climate resonates, with reletting affected by less competitive rents and longer void periods. Although some landlords have avoided the spikes in rent and have instead been content with a property fully let rather than risking long void periods, others re-letting in this climate may find the market slow moving. Pricing properties correctly at this time is essential as rents are predicted to remain competitive until the end of the year.

This abundance in supply and lack of demand post Olympics calls for landlords to maximise attention and refocus energies in marketing properties before

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plunge and finally secure the property they have been dreaming of. The security of bricks and mortar has been a talisman of the past but as stock markets across the globe continue to suffer volatility, property suddenly appears a more secure investment vehicle.

As JP Morgan begin to take occupation of their new premises in Canary Wharf the interest in prime Docklands property is set to continue to grow. And as confidence grows it might finally be the right time for those with prestigious addresses to test the market and consider selling. n

the end of the Games, developing better presentation for the property itself and how it is being marketed. Landlords and tenants alike will benefit from investments in and around the Olympic Park with both improved infrastructure and environmental improvements, ranging from improved transport links, retail amenities, and public areas. Employment opportunities are set to rise significantly, with new schools, businesses, nurseries and leisure facilities becoming available in surrounding areas. Landlords should take advantage of these improvements when developing marketing strategies.

The re-letting of property post Olympics will certainly be achievable owing to a vibrant buzz in the aftermath of the Olympics. It is up to landlords to be vigilant, gauging competitive rents, producing strong marketing strategies and taking advantage of regenerative infrastructure and all that it has to offer perspective tenants and purchasers. n Franklyn James Estate Agents, Docklands 020 7005 6080 www.franklynjames.co.uk

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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

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