Canary Wharf Magazine January 2012 by Runwild Media Group

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Investment Work hard; Spend wisely

fashion finance motoring interiors property JANUARY 2012 i s s u e 7 8

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contents

WINTer E

WONDerLAND

in the Wharf

You may be thinking that all the winter excitement is over but Carol Cordrey assures us that it is about to start all over again; the London Ice Sculpting Festival leaps into action this month, filling Canary Wharf with two days of free excitement, amazing art and fun for all ages

feature 10 The Return of St. George G eorge Clooney reaffirms his status as one of Hollywood’s true heavyweights

14 Welcome... J.P. Morgan R ichard Brown meets J. P. Morgan’s Chief Finance Officer Frank Pearn ahead of the company’s relocation to Canary Wharf

ncouraged by your continued support and that of our generous sponsors – Canary Wharf Group plc, Calverton Factors, The Snow Centre, the Hilton Canary Wharf, All Bar One and the parlour – this Festival will be the biggest yet with more teams and more ‘have-a-go’ ice-sculpting masterclasses, as well as new attractions across the centre of Canary Wharf and all conveniently placed close to transport links. In its four years of existence, this Festival remains unique to the UK and it is now established as a wonderful, wintry event so here’s an outline of what everyone can look forward to on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 January. The core part of the Festival gives the public a chance to see some of the world’s most skilful ice sculptors at work as they interpret – against the clock – two themes specially chosen to trumpet the start of our historic Olympic year. All of this takes place in Montgomery Square, opposite the east exit of the tube station, as two-man teams representing Africa, Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Hungary, Portugal, Sweden and the UK begin the excitement with the Doubles Competition on Friday 13. Dramatic sounds from chainsaws and chisels on huge two-metre blocks of ice continue that day and the next as the disparate, ambitious versions of the ‘Winter Sports’ theme take shape before our eyes. The sculptors are allowed just a half-hour break on Saturday afternoon before they face the next grueling test of the Singles Competition in which one member of each team has just 90 minutes and a one metre block of ice in which to create a ‘Team Spirit’ design, after which the judges discuss and deliberate about who will win the coveted prizes for both competitions. Last year we gave the public the chance to vote for a favourite ice sculpture and it proved so popular that the same system will be available on Saturday 14. You can vote at the Festival or online for your preferred interpretation of Team Spirit and not only will you be helping to decide which sculptor wins the Public Choice Award, your vote will also be entered into the prize draw with the chance to win a £100 voucher to enjoy at Canary Wharf’s popular All Bar One. Also in Montgomery Square, and a new addition to the Festival, will be the Frost Fayre, selling spirit-lifting refreshments following a wintery, Alpine theme and adjacent to it will be the exciting new Snow Pit. This will have real snow, just like its sponsor, the indoor Snow Centre of Hemel Hempstead, which is renowned for its ideal, all-year-round snowsport facilities and instruction. Whatever the weather, the Snow Pit is the perfect place for grown-ups and children (accompanied by an adult) to revel in the fun of making snowmen or snow-castles. Nearby are two ice sculpting masterclass facilities – one in Canada Square Park and the other in the Jubilee Place Shopping Mall. In previous years everyone adored creating penguins or polar bears so we’ve organized even more masterclasses for all to enjoy and this time you can have a go at sculpting a Husky to prove that we really are a nation of dog lovers. Be sure to put the dates in your diary and check the website for full details and timings. n www.londonicesculptingfestival.co.uk January 13-14, Canary Wharf

collection 22 Investing In Watches

T imothy Barber highlights the timepieces worth keeping an eye out for

26 When Every Second Counts

A nnabel Harrison visits the Bell & Ross headquarters in Paris to talk to CEO and co-founder Carlos Rosillo

Eyes

for your

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Photographer:

concierge 52 For Your Eyes Only E xquisite evening wear, watches and jewellery inspired by James Bond

calibre

James Knapp Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

The Return Of

ST. GeOrGe George Clooney is back – maybe only fleetingly in the eyes of the masses around Leicester Square but for long enough to reaffirm his status as one of modern film’s true heavyweights, as Steven Milton finds out

here’s a change in the air that signals George Clooney’s imminent arrival. The seedling of a faint hum strains to an audible decibel as it becomes clear the actor is on his way. Growing distinctly louder, the sounds of tottering stiletto heels and snapping clipboards filter in, diluted by a wash of well-wishers, and the man himself politely ordering a chicken salad. Door flung open, he’s here, haloed by a swathe of his own brand of hazy Hollywood sunshine. Lackeys swarm, offering a stern warning that this interview will last a few precious moments. “And not a second more,” Clooney himself offers, brandishing that killer grin which has undoubtedly played a part in how he came to amass his fortune. Disarmingly casual in a black leather jacket and faded, scruffy jeans, Clooney is still remarkably dapper and, let’s be honest, ridiculously handsome. The hazel eyes and salt-and-pepper-coloured coiffure show no evidence of recession strains and with no telltales signs of cosmetic tampering – though it surely must be a given, mustn’t it? – it seems the gods were more than generous when creating this physical specimen. In town to promote his two latest offerings, recent directorial release, The Ides of March, and emotional drama, The Descendants (in UK cinemas this month), the modern-day screen idol has caused quite the press furore in central London, with a mere sneeze dominating the headlines. So we wisely treasure the time we have with the man before us. Both The Ides of March and The Descendants positively reek of awards buzz: the former sees Clooney portraying a glossy, unscrupulous candidate in the running for a Democratic presidential nomination; in the latter, he plays a fair-weather father trying to reconnect with his distant offspring. Come Oscar time, this will possibly lead to a glaring conflict of interests. “It’s a very weird concept to think of competition when referring to what I still think of as creative art,” he replies, deftly manoeuvering into this slick response. “I never think of competing. I mean, you compete at the box office, but awards, what’s the point? I don’t really think about it. I don’t want to think of it as a race with anyone. “Yes, I direct The Ides and Alexander [Payne] directs The Descendants but I really don’t want to compete with him

A n old car is the up-and-coming place to put your money, says Matthew Carter

86 It’s All About the Money L ee Brooks takes a look at how sport has become a multi-billion pound industry

90 A is for Ariadne

A nnabel Harrison talks to Julie Meyer, the impressive CEO of Ariadne Capital

connoisseur 104 Caribbean Odyssey O livia Sharpe deems Jade Mountain in St Lucia the pinnacle of romantic destinations

interview feature

feature interview

72 High Octane Investing

comment

White lace dress, £7,050, white evening shirt, £295 and velvet bowtie, £145, all Tom Ford at Harrods Knightsbridge, www.tomford.com Pearl necklace, £45,700, pearl and pavé diamond earrings, £19,500, both Mikimoto, 179 New Bond Street 020 7399 9860, www.mikimoto.co.uk

regulars 9 editor’s letter

19 watches & jewellery

103 travel

49 fashion

115 food & drink

61 health & beauty

118 out & about

65 interiors

121 property

sport

contributors...

RUNWILD M

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Editor

Annabel Harrison

Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds

Motoring Editor Matthew Carter

Assistant Editors Richard Brown Gabrielle Lane

Editorial Assistant Olivia Sharpe

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

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

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

3. Matthew Carter is a London-based freelance

journalist who’s been writing about cars for most of his working life. A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner.

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

5. Carol Cordrey is an art critic and editor

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

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Senior Designer Dalton Butler

Designer

Ashley Lewis

Production Manager Fiona Fenwick

Production

Hugo Wheatley

Senior Project Manager Ella Kilgarriff

Head of Finance Elton Hopkins

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

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

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Winter Wonderland in the Wharf See p. 36

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from the editor...

January

eople talk about this being an uncertain time [but] all time is uncertain. It was uncertain back in 2007; we just didn’t know it was uncertain. It was uncertain on 10 September 2001. It was uncertain on 18 October 1987; you just didn’t know it.” These words were spoken by the man widely regarded as the greatest money manager of the 20th century in an interview with CNBC on 22 September 2010. Warren Buffett was just 11 when he bought his first shares and by the time he left college, having invested in the New York Stock Exchange as well as in a local farm, he had amassed savings worth £57,000 in today’s money (p. 89). Welcome to our annual Investment Issue, in which we take inspiration from Buffett’s ethos of working hard and spending wisely. Whether you’re interested in tangible or intangible assets, we explore the wide range of ways in which you can make your money work harder for you in times of economic uncertainty. Julie Meyer, CEO of Ariadne Capital, explains why her company invests in entrepreneurs, how to spot the most profitable opportunities and what it takes to succeed in her competitive market (p. 90). David Kuo argues that investing in shares should be part of our long term financial plans, even during economic downturns, citing Buffett’s approach as a prime example: he has seen his investment in Coca-Cola increase seven-fold since the late 1980s (p. 95).

If you want to be able to watch, wear or drive your investments, our specialists spell out the most exciting ways to spend, although the overriding advice is this: buy things you love. Paul Maudsley of Bonhams, in discussing watches, explains that “it really is, principally, about enjoying them” and Max Girardo, head of RM Auctions in Europe, agrees that “it’s all about passion. Our customers love and enjoy their cars.” Timothy Barber of 00:24 WatchWorld magazine explains why you should check the dial of your dad’s Rolex from the 60s (p. 22); Matthew Carter speaks with infectious enthusiasm about old cars, an up-and-coming place to put your money (p. 72); and Carol Cordrey explains why, while spending decreased elsewhere, there was a rise in the sale of fine art last year (p. 100). Finally, all that remains is for me to extend a warm welcome to the J.P. Morgan employees arriving in Canary Wharf over the coming months (p. 14); we very much hope you enjoy being here as much as we do. I wish you all a very happy, prosperous 2012.

Annabel Harrison Editor

feature interview

The Return Of

St. George George Clooney is back – maybe only fleetingly in the eyes of the masses around Leicester Square but for long enough to reaffirm his status as one of modern film’s true heavyweights, as Steven Milton finds out

interview

feature

feature interview

on any level. If it ends up that way... well, it’ll make for some interesting conversations, I guess.” In recent years, the Oscar winner’s career has changed trajectory, migrating behind the camera for Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Leatherheads, Goodnight Good Luck and now The Ides of March. Could a permanent relocation to the director’s chair be on the cards? “Possibly,” he smiles. “For the last decade or so, acting has become less of a priority and I could see myself doing [directing] in the long run. But it takes a long time to get done and right now my bread and butter is still acting. It just depends on the projects and scripts that come my way.” This isn’t Clooney’s first visit to the BFI London Film Festival, the base of our interview, having attended for the premiere of Fantastic Mr. Fox last year. So what is it exactly that appeals about this festival and the city in general? “To showcase my movies in this forum is incredibly special and important, and it’s a way of gauging how they’ll be received. As regards London, who doesn’t like coming to London? It’s the perfect city – culture, beauty and a metropolis all rolled into one.” Any particular favourite spots? “Anywhere down by the river.” Flashbulbs have also been going wild for Clooney’s current arm candy – former model and wrestler Stacy Keibler, the latest in a revolving door of lovelies including Italian beauty Elisabetta Canalis and model Lisa Snowden. Does the intrusion into his personal affairs become tiresome or is it simply par for the course? “Look, I say over and over, I can handle it,” he replies. “I’m an adult who’s been in this world for a while. I know what people are going to ask and it doesn’t bother me in the slightest, within reason. But I’m an actor. I would always rather talk about the films. However, I understand the compromise in this situation.” In The Ides of March, where he shares the screen with an awesome cast including man-of-the-moment Ryan Gosling and fellow Oscar winners Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Marisa Tomei, Clooney’s onscreen political

aspirations possibly reflect his own, much rumoured, move towards Washington. Are the rumours true or false? “False,” he grins, seemingly amused by the notion. “It’s never ever going to happen! I may dip my toe in and out of the arena with my own humanitarian work but I have no interest in politics whatsoever. It’s just not the world for me, although where people pick up these rumours from, I don’t know. I worked on K Street [in Washington, D.C.] many years ago for 14 weeks so, in a way, I know how that world works. And from my father’s own campaign, [Nick Clooney ran unsuccessfully for a seat in the US Congress in 2004], I picked up many memories and influences for this movie, but that’s the extent of my political ambitions. If I had wanted to get into politics, I would have done it by now.” The Descendants sees George reconciling with his two daughters after their mother suffers a severe boating accident, leaving her in a coma. Playing a father isn’t something new for the actor but must always feel a novelty, having no children of his own. “I’ve played parents in several films – One Fine Day, Syriana – and I like it. It gives me a chance to tell kids what to do, something I don’t have in my own life! It’s strange though, because I do feel genuinely paternal in those films. Amara [Miller, co-star in the movie] hadn’t even been in a school play, let alone a movie, so it was great to help, guide and advise as best I could.” He adds: “Anyway, you don’t have to be a father to play one, much like you don’t have to do drugs to play a drug addict. I’m not campaigning for President, but I can play a candidate. Most of the time you don’t have to have those things in your life to understand what it was like – that’s acting, I suppose.” With that last response, Clooney is immediately ushered out of the room by panicky flunkies without getting the chance to exchange departing pleasantries or even a handshake. Such is life for a man on the throne of the Hollywood royalty. n

“Who doesn’t like coming to London? It’s the perfect city – culture, beauty and a metropolis all rolled into one”

interview

feature

Welcome...

J.P. Morgan

Canary Wharf’s working population will increase by almost a tenth over the next eight months as J. P. Morgan relocates 8,000 of its employees to the iconic London business district. Richard Brown met the company’s Chief Finance Officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Frank Pearn, ahead of the symbolic move

hen Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy in September 2008, it was 25 Bank Street that provided the backdrop to one of the defining moments of the 07–09 recession, as television cameras and news reporters flocked to Canary Wharf to document the collapse of one of the world’s largest superbanks. Just over three years later, in a move that underscores the area’s significance as a global financial hub, the address reopens as J. P. Morgan’s European headquarters. For Frank Pearn, a man who was at Lehman Brothers during the start of the financial crisis, 25 Bank Street represents not just the leaps the finance industry has made during the last four years but also the encouraging direction in which the sector is moving.

You were at J.P. Morgan earlier in your career and have now returned. What bought you back? I spent almost 12 years from 1990 to 2001 at J.P. Morgan which means I did most of my professional growing up here. I have always had a soft spot for the company and the things it did as it came together through various mergers. When the opportunity to return to such a compelling business presented itself two and a half years ago, it was too good to pass up. You were at Lehman Brothers during the financial crisis. What did you take away from that experience? When the credit crisis kicked in, it quickly became clear that the existing business model had to change. There was plenty of lead-up to the September of 2008, so it’s difficult to say it was an unexpected event, but the finality of it all was shocking nonetheless. Once you’ve lived through something like that, everything else looks a little less daunting. Are we still in the grip of a recession? From a macro economic perspective, it’s still uncertain. The eurozone crisis that everyone is trying to work through poses a lot of challenges. The US economy appears to be continuing to perform, which we hope will continue to have a positive effect on markets around the rest of the world. How much does the continuing euro crisis worry you and how damaging could the implications be to J. P. Morgan? We are a global financial institution with a footprint in more than 60 countries. Our business is tied very closely to the global economy, which is why we manage risk and monitor our exposures very carefully. At the moment, we are in a very good place from a balance sheet perspective. How do markets in the current economy compare with how things were pre 2007? If you put aside the sovereign crisis that’s now being dealt with, I think overall we are in a much better position as an industry. Many of the things we saw go sideways before 2008 in terms of leverage and the real estate bubble have taught firms a hard lesson. You look at our management disciplines at J. P. Morgan and we’ve tightened up processes

feature interview

and increased transparency around more risks. We are in a better place than we were in 2007. How important is London as a financial hub for J. P. Morgan? London is a vibrant financial sector for the global economy. We continue to see growth in emerging economies like China, India and Russia, but London will continue to be a major financial hub for many years to come. Our move to Canary Wharf, announced a year ago, demonstrates our commitment to the city. While we continue to build our capabilities in places like the Middle East, Eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa, we are absolutely committed to London. The legacy of our firm dates back to the U.K. We have been here for more than 100 years and currently have more than 10,000 employees in the capital. Why has the company chosen to relocate to Canary Wharf? Presently, we have a number of locations spread out across London; 25 Bank Street provided a tremendous opportunity to bring everybody together under one roof. It is a beautiful building that was specifically built for a global financial institution, so it has a fantastic technology structure. The idea of having our Investment Bank, Global Corporate Bank and Treasury & Securities Services businesses in the same building will make it more collegial and certainly make us more efficient. We are extremely proud to boast 25 Bank Street as our European headquarters. Did you consider any other locations? Since I’ve been back, it was really about Canary Wharf. Our real estate team did a great job of scouring the city for opportunities, but the lack of buildings large enough to accommodate us all meant that Canary Wharf became the most logical option. Starting in January, the plan is to get most people into 25 Bank Street before the Olympics. The remaining few or so will move in straight after. How might the banking industry change in the next few years? There’s so much regulation and reform going on right

now in the US, the UK and in Europe. A lot of firms are having to go through self-assessments, to evaluate what remains core to their business models going forward. You’ll see firms change their strategy in response to changes in the rules. At Morgan, we are spending vast amounts of time and energy in working with our regulators on proposed changes, helping them to understand the implications of the proposals. We constantly assess and evaluate the implications to our markets and are confident that whatever is implemented, we will be able to serve our clients for the long-term. What has been your biggest challenge as CFO of J. P. Morgan? Getting my head around all of the post-crisis regulatory issues. The governance around our local entities has grown tremendously over the last couple of years and caused us a great amount of work. In London, the FSA has done a very good job in working with us to identify key risks and issues for our UK-based entities to ensure that we were adequately capitalised, and have sufficient sources of liquidity to function in separate areas of a global market. What do you most enjoy about your role? The breadth of responsibility. Working with colleagues across the Investment Bank, Treasury and Securities Services and Asset Management, I get to see all of the different parts of our business come together. In terms of our move to Canary Wharf, I don’t think many financial offices are regularly given the opportunity to move thousands of staff to a building of that size very often. I get to work on things like what kind of trading workstations we will put in, all the way down to how we’re going to assign parking spaces. London hosts the Olympic Games this year. If you could compete in, and win, one Olympic event, what would it be? The decathlon. I like variety; anybody who can be a world-class athlete in ten different activities is pretty impressive to me. n

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Homage to a Masterpiece

It took 200 people five years to make and incorporates six patented inventions. The world’s largest grasshopper escapement doesn’t just tell the time; it devours it

n 1714, the problem of determining longitude at sea accurately was considered so foremost that the British government offered today’s equivalent of £3 million to anyone who could solve it. When English clockmaker John Harrison invented the grasshopper escapement a decade later, he solved a puzzle that had baffled the world’s greatest minds for centuries. Now, 200 years on, British inventor John C. Taylor pays homage to the revolutionary mechanism with a creation that transmogrifies Harrison’s innovation. Taking its name from the Greek for ‘time eater’, the five-foot

face of the Chronophage is designed to represent time radiating from the centre of the universe like ripples on a golden pond; time itself is displayed by the opening of individual slits on the clock’s face. While the rippling, gold-plated dial is a work of art in itself (the disk was moulded into shape via underwater explosions in a military research institute in Holland), the clock’s dominating feature is the fang-toothed monster that sits above it, snapping its jaws every 60 seconds to devour the minute that has just passed. Having been housed on the outer wall of Cambridge’s Taylor library, the Chronophage is now up for sale for £2 million. n

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

watches

collection

3 Of The Best...

watch

news

Investment watches As well as looking great on your wrist, choose the following timepieces and you’re likely to see a good return for your money

For £80,000...

Patrimony Traditionnelle Perpetual Calendar Vacheron Constantin

Haute Horology at Harrods Before the end of last year, if you had ever wanted to see the latest offerings from all the major watch brands in one place, you’d have headed to Selfridges Wonder Room. Now there’s another option. Boasting the same 18,000 square feet of retail space as its West London neighbour, Harrods’ Fine Watch Room rivals the Wonder Room on all fronts. London’s latest horological haunt has become Europe’s largest permanent watch space, hosting 13 individual brand boutiques in addition to 35

other fine watch brands. Amid the black marble surfaces, sculpted glass and minimalist display cabinets, you’ll find marvellous creations from the likes of Vacheron Constantin, IWC, Panerai and Richard Mille, to name but a few. If you’re after an investment piece this January, look out for the five exclusive watches that were created in celebration of the Fine Watch Room’s launch (although we doubt that Breguet’s ruby-set bracelet watch and Corum’s elegant rose gold and crocodile design will be in the sale).

For £20,000...

Daytona 6263, Rolex

One to Watch This month, Sandy Madhvani, Showroom Manager at David M Robinson in Canary Wharf, chooses what he considers the best watch to invest in

“The ultra-thin perpetual calendar ranks among Patek’s most iconic timepieces. Emphasizing the watch’s slender silhouette, the 2006 edition is the perfect addition to any investor’s collection”

5140G Grand Complication £61,440, Patek Philippe Available at David M Robinson, Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf

For £5,000...

Heuer Monaco Calibre 12, TAG Heuer

watches

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Investing in

Watches

While not the most conventional form of investment, some watches can provide their owners with a significant return on their money. Timothy Barber, editor of 00/24 WatchWorld magazine, highlights the timepieces to keep an eye out for

t wasn’t vintage nor was it even popular when it was launched into the market in the mid 90s. However, these were both things that made the platinum Patek Philippe Reference 5020 – Lot 138 in Bonhams New York’s pre-Christmas auction last year – rather special. Known as the “TV watch”, because of its cushion-shaped dial and case, the chronograph with perpetual calendar piece had been brought out by Patek in 1994. At the time, buyers didn’t go for its slightly unusual look and the Swiss company shelved production after two years due to a lack of interest. In the years since then, the watch collecting market has blossomed and Patek’s former ugly duckling became a highly sought-after piece. Around just 200 were ever made, less than 20 of these in platinum, and only five had ever cropped up at auction. When the hammer fell in December, the watch went for $338,500 (approximately £218,000) – more than twice what you’d expect to get for a more common Patek with an identical movement inside. Here’s another story involving Patek Philippe. Last summer

at a charity watch auction, Only Watch, in which pieces were sold that had been specially made for the occasion, Patek’s entry was a tourbillon minute repeater. Gold or platinum versions of this watch normally fetch about half a million dollars. The Only Watch model, however, was made of plain old stainless steel – on paper, a less valuable watch. But, as a one off, it sold for $1.4 million (approximately £902,000). Watches may cost more than houses in the rarefied world of Patek Philippe but similar rules apply as prices drop to more fathomable levels. It isn’t just material worth, perceived beauty, technical brilliance or vintage status that gives a watch its value; quirks, rarity and back stories are the things that separate out the truly investable pieces. This wasn’t always the case. The investment market for wristwatches really only took off in the past 20 years – before this, clocks and pocket watches were the things that more commonly appeared in auction houses and vintage dealerships. Although enthusiasm for watch collecting increased in the 90s, buyers were a lot less discerning than they are now.

Main image: Calibre-945, Jaeger-LeCoultre Right: Master Geographic, Grande-Reverso-976, Master Moon Ultra Thin All Jaeger-LeCoultre

collection xxxx

“The advent of the internet made the collecting world so much smaller,” says Paul Maudsley, director of watches and clocks at Bonhams London. “You used to get people collecting lots of watches quite indiscriminately but people are a lot more knowledgeable now. They’ll focus on particular brands or movements, search them out online, discuss them in forums and really target what they’re after.” In other words, watch collecting – and by extension, watch investing – is something that plays to the nerdishly inclined. Miniscule variations in design can add serious value and the rarer the better. To the collector, for instance, a vintage Rolex Sea-Dweller is one thing; a vintage Rolex Sea-Dweller with the words ‘Sea-Dweller / Submariner 2000’ printed in red letters on the dial in two lines means an early model and is considerably more special – it’s known as the Double Red. A version just with a single red ‘Sea-Dweller’ marking is a practically mythical thing and few have ever seen one in the flesh. To most people, though, these all look like the same watch. Other things that add value include having an original dial – older watches have often had dials retouched or replaced, something that significantly detracts from its worth – and the watch still being sold with its original box and transactional papers. The less sign of it ever having been – shock, horror – worn, the better. Among such obsessiveness, investment – as opposed to collecting out of passion – is something of a dirty notion. As one specialist collector of Patek Philippe, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Zenith watches says: “If you’re going to collect watches, collect them because you love them and because you’re going to wear them and enjoy them. If you’re knowledgeable about what you’re buying, then other [financial] considerations do come into play, but [a purchase] should always be because you love the watch.” Paul Maudsley of Bonhams agrees. “I don’t have people phoning me up saying they’ve got £200,000 to invest, what have we got coming up? It really is, principally, about enjoying the watches.” Nevertheless, watches are a tangible asset

in which auction prices have held up despite the economic woes of recent years and December’s pre-Christmas sales were particularly successful. “Now people want to put their money into things that are safer, but also interesting and exciting,” says collector and dealer Phivos Ethelontis, who set up London auction business Watches of Knightsbridge last year. “It’s somewhere to put your money that is enjoyable but can also reap benefits. Once you get hooked, you start to build a collection, and then it becomes obsessive.” Watches Ethelontis auctions range from interesting vintage pieces worth a few hundred pounds to rare Rolexes worth tens of thousands. The safest investments in the watch world are always going to be with Rolex and, even higher up the scale, Patek – no other brands can match these two behemoths in terms of historic consistency, excellence and prestige – but there’s plenty of activity elsewhere in the market. Other prestigious brands that go for strong prices, such as Audemars Piguet, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin and A. Lange & Sohne, for instance, require even more selectivity, but there are specialist collectors at all ends of the market. The key to good investment is eventually to specialise in one or two areas – be it in Heuer chronographs, Omega Speedmasters or 1920s dress watches – and become an expert in spotting key pieces. Ethelontis recommends vintage military watches as a good investment area at the affordable end. “There’s not many around now because they stopped making mechanical military watches in the 70s, but there’s provenance and stories behind them and prices are likely to go up,” he says. Where prices won’t go up are in new watches, unless your new watch is a top-end Patek. A £20,000 Hublot or £9,000 Panerai bought brand new at Christmas will only lose its value over coming years, and trying to second guess what will eventually become a collectible a decade down the line is an almost impossible task. Nevertheless, for those with deep pockets, top-end watches from independent workshops, like Greubel Forsey and FP Journe – of which very few are produced a year, for six-figure sums – are already showing good auction returns. Meanwhile, that Rolex your dad bought in the 60s and has promised to pass on to you, get him to check for any red writing on the dial. n

Left: 5270G Chronograph with Perpetual Calendar Patek Philippe

Every Secondcounts...

When

watches

collection

Annabel Harrison visits the beautiful Bell & Ross headquarters in Paris to talk to CEO and co-founder Carlos Rosillo about dashboards, design, flying and functionality

arely have I come across a watch company for which function takes such clear precedence over form. The bold brand statement is this: “The essential is never compromised by the superfluous”. I have been told repeatedly that there must be a harmonious balance between the appearance of a watch and its purpose, that one should not supersede the other. It goes without saying that this approach has resulted in thousands of striking, iconic creations, which have brought great pleasure to those who own them, but sometimes the chief function – simply, to be able to tell the time at a glance – is hindered by an elaborate aesthetic. For Bell & Ross, however, this approach is most certainly not one which the brand endorses. Rather, functionality is a cornerstone from which all designs are developed and a principle which has mattered a great deal to founders Carlos Rosillo and Bruno Belamich since the company’s birth. I meet Rosillo, a softly spoken, polite man who is clearly passionate about what he does, at the Bell & Ross headquarters in Paris; the entrance hall of the sixfloor town house is impressive, with huge stone pillars, arched ceilings and a monochrome palette, embellished with old aviation paraphernalia and photos. Staff members pop in and out, exuding the chic cool found in an ad agency. A glass lift is nestled in the curve of the stairwell and the environment does indeed, as the company says, “resemble the watch brand: both steeped in history and resolutely ground-breaking”. This is fair. Although the brand is just 18 years old, Rosillo

and Belamich’s shared ambition – to create watches suitable for professional use that adhere to strict military specifications – by necessity drew heavily upon the history of the aviation industry. The most important manifestation of this debt to the past is the Bell & Ross watch face, inspired by the key device used by professional pilots and drivers: the dashboard. Watches such as the BR Instrument have been carefully designed to replicate the shape of a cockpit instrument taken from an aircraft. The success of the founders’ common goal is indisputable; the high standards upon which Rosillo and Belamich insisted have been recognized by many professional organizations including the French Air Force, submariners and anti-mine military squads. Interestingly, Rosillo’s early career path did not seem to hint at this passion in the slightest. A graduate of the prestigious Parisian business school (the École des Hautes Études Commerciales), he worked for an American consulting firm before moving into a bank’s Industrial and Financial Affairs Department. Endearingly, the founding of Bell & Ross is described as “a long-time dream project that he conceived with his childhood friend”, which imbues the brand with a human element, in keeping with the need for time-telling accuracy in situations which may, quite literally, spell life or death for the watches’ wearers. Rosillo explained the change in career direction to me simply: “I love watches and when you love watches, you begin a collection; little by little it becomes a business. At the beginning we did not have a plan; we just followed

Because he wants to reach for the stars and explore the ocean depths, because he lives out his passions to the fullest, man has always measured himself against time... to turn a few seconds into a moment of eternity

what we liked, which was watches and functional design.” I particularly enjoyed hearing about how the name, logo and watch design integrate; of course, Bell & Ross is an amalgamation of the abbreviated founders’ names but, cleverly, “we found out we could, with the name, make a label that represents what is our job, which is to make watches”. The words ‘Bell’ and ‘Ross’ fit onto the strap either side of the watch face and the ampersand (&) sits neatly within the face itself, encompassing the idea of perfect functionality – no space wasted or additional fuss. The dashboard-inspired face has four corners too, drawing in the four design principles; namely clear visual indicators, such as those found on aircraft instrument panels, special functions intended for specific uses, highly accurate Swiss mechanical movements and the highest standard of endurance. Rosillo is specific about the importance of these qualities. “Every watch should have readability; when you talk with professional users, they want to see what time it is at first glance. Reliability is more possible with modern techniques because when you collect watches with old technology, it’s like a car. It looks nice but it’s not the same as modern technology.” This is where the “ground-breaking” side of the young brand comes in, taking inspiration from old military watches and time-keeping devices but using modern techniques to improve precision and reliability. As Rosillo points out, “a watchmaker today is probably as good as a watchmaker in the 40s but the difference is in the materials that we use, and the machines. Today you have machines that make the precision of a case maybe 20 or 50 times better than what it used to be.” The BR02 range, for example, caters for diving professionals through the use of highly legible dials, with cases water resistant to withstand 1,000 metres of pressure, and the Hydromax contains hydraulic fluid within its case to counteract the effects of external pressures. The Bell & Ross motto could easily apply to wearers of watches from the Vintage, Aviation or Diving collections: “Because he wants to reach for the stars and explore the ocean depths, because he lives out his passions to the fullest, man has always measured himself against time... to turn a few seconds into a moment of eternity”. Although Rosillo and Belamich were inspired by aviation instruments, and to this day their timepieces are used widely by professionals in this industry, their watches have also enjoyed increasing popularity among the general public. As a comparison, Rosillo uses the history of denim to suggest why this might be. “Jeans used to be worn by gold miners, who went to the west to find gold. They made a type of garment that was functional but today everyone wears jeans, not just the gold miners. “It’s this kind of thing that we have in mind; we love functional designs and objects that have meaning, which we can use every day. And this is probably why we love military watches.” After speaking to Rosillo and appreciating the pared down, statement watches in the showroom, so do I. n Bell & Ross watches are available at Charles Fish, Cabot Place

collection men’s luxury

2 3

1 4

yourself 5 8

Stave off the January blues by indulging in attention-grabbing accessories, certain to put more than a spring in your step

7 10

RZ8 Ziletto Slyder cufflinks, POA, Roland Iten at Harrods, www.harrods.com 2 RM 011 DLC Titanium Orange, £55,000, Richard Mille at Marcus Watches, 170 New Bond Street 3 Parentesi cufflinks in white gold and pavé diamonds, £2,480, Bulgari, www.bulgari.com 4 Tambour Diver Chronograph, £30,000, Louis Vuitton, www.louisvuitton.com 5 ‘Bulgari Bulgari’ money clip in sterling silver and black onyx, £250, Bulgari, as before 6 Opus Eleven, £160,000, Harry Winston, www.harrywinston.com 7 1837 cufflinks in titanium, £270, Tiffany & Co, Cabot Place, Canary Wharf 8 The Legend Safe, £215,000, Döttling, www.doettling.com 9 Horological Machine No.4 Thunderbolt Flying Panda, £145,260, MB&F at Marcus Watches, as before 10 R8 MKII Sport belt, POA, Roland Iten at Harrods, as before

Treat

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162 NEW BOND STREET LONDON W1S 2UG WWW.SOLANGE.CO.UK

Runwild Dec11.indd 1

09/12/2011 10:51

jewellery

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3 Of The Best…

jewellery

news

Engagement rings

JEWEL TONES Historic jewellery brand Fabergé has returned to the heart of London. The new store featured a special lilac façade for the festive season, emulating the brand’s renowned guilloche and enamel techniques. Fabergé collections are admired for being imbued with artistry and refined ideals of beauty and, wholly dedicated to the pursuit of perfection, the exquisite collections succeed in linking Fabergé’s ancient heritage with a sense of modernity. Fabergé has also announced that its jewellery and watch collections are now available at Harrods. Managing and Creative Director Katharina Flohr, stated: “We are thrilled to open the doors to the first Fabergé boutique in London since 1915. This is an important moment for us and for Fabergé to continue Peter Carl Fabergé’s legacy of exquisite creations and outstanding craftsmanship. Fabergé continues to attract a customer base of discerning devotees, seeking special personal possessions and gifts which illuminate the captivating world of Fabergé, linking past, present and future.”

‘tRIO’ ASSCHER CUT diamond ring £4,595, hirsh london www.hirshlondon.com

www.faberge.com

‘TÊte-À-TÊte’ platinum and diamond engagement ring £34,000, Van Cleef & Arpels

Cutting Edge

www.vancleef-arpels.com

Samantha Hansard, buying director at Charles Fish, picks out her favourite pieces from Stephen Webster’s beautifully eclectic jewellery collection

“Stephen Webster jewellery is the ultimate investment. Diamonds coupled with rock and roll design gives his pieces a luxury edge like no other. Instantly recognisable, if you’re wearing Stephen Webster you can be sure you have well and truly arrived. These pack a big punch.” White gold ‘crystal haze’ marquise ring set with diamonds, lapis and quartz, £5,000 White gold, diamond-set, thorn drop earrings, £3,900 Both Stephen Webster at Charles Fish, Cabot Place

‘Spaghetti’ diamond ENGAGEMENT ring from £18,550, Boodles www.boodles.com

A kiss on the hand may be quite continental... ...but diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Whether for an anniversary or a birthday, for saying “I love you” or “forgive me”, these precious jewels could prove one of the soundest investments you’ll ever make

Sterling Silver (25th Anniversary) A monumental milestone for any married couple, it is vital to continue to invest in the relationship and in one another. Sterling silver jewellery remains sophisticated, classic and suitable for all occasions, including important milestones in daughters’ lives, such as graduations or birthdays. Never failing to go out of style, silver’s enduring place in fashion history makes it the perfect investment piece to ensure that your marriage continues to be long-lasting or that your daughter feels suitably treasured. Above: Silver Winged Art Pendant & Chain in Medium, £275 Theo Fennell, www.theofennell.com Below: Superstud Chainmail Bracelet in Sterling Silver, £1,095 Stephen Webster at Charles Fish, Cabot Place

Perfect Pearls (30th Anniversary) “The pearls were accidents and the finding of one was luck, a little pat on the back by God or the gods both” - (John Steinbeck, The Pearl). Throughout history and literature, the pearl has become synonymous with the adjectives rare, fine, admirable and valuable. If you have been fortunate enough to find everlasting love, there is no better way to commemorate this unique union than by presenting your wife with an inimitable piece of natural beauty to mark 30 years together. Above: Opulence Necklace, £510,000, Mikimoto www.mikimoto.co.uk Right: Baroque Ring in White Gold with Cultured Pearl and Diamonds, £39,925, Chanel, www.chanel.com

jewellery

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Rare Rubies (40th Anniversary)

A vivid symbol of love and passion, the ruby’s rarity marks it as an exquisite and precious stone. Dame Elizabeth Taylor, whose love affair with jewellery was as true as her ardent romance with Richard Burton, always honoured the gem. Van Cleef & Arpels, which famously designed the spectacular 8.24-carat ruby ring which was given by Burton to Taylor as a token of love, once again pays tribute the stone in its Le Bal Oriental collection. Ruby is also the traditional birthstone of anyone born in the month of July, making rubies a thoughtful birthday present. Fleurs Mystérieuses Necklace and Earrings with Rubies and Diamonds, POA, “Le Bal Oriental” collection at Van Cleef & Arpels, www.vancleef-arpels.com

Gorgeous Gold (50th Anniversary) Celebrate the start of your golden years with your loved one with one of Fabergé’s stunning golden egg pendants; customise for an added special touch with your wife’s favourite gems. Here the sumptuous rose gold quilted cushions are studded with rubies and amethysts, orange, yellow, pink and blue sapphires, tsavorite garnets, emeralds and brown and white diamonds, resulting in bejewelled grandeur fit for royalty. Alternatively, choose your daughter’s favourite gems and make her the envy of her friends. Above: Parentesi Ring in 18-carat Yellow Gold with Demi Pavé Diamonds £4,058, Bulgari, www.bulgari.com Below: Oeuf Matelassé Coloré or Rose, Les Favorites de Fabergé £8,367, Fabergé, www.faberge.com

th Diamonds Are Forever (60th Anniversary) With Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee taking place this year, the event promises to be an elaborate and regal affair to honour the monarch’s abiding reign. The diamond, defined in Ancient Greek times as “unalterable”, “unbreakable”, and “untamed”, is the perfect emblem to celebrate not only this prodigious event but also you and your partner’s momentous 60th wedding anniversary. Equally, use the occasion, and the stone, to propose. As the saying goes, diamonds will always remain a girl’s best friend. n Above: Diamond Garland Necklace, POA, Harry Winston, www.harrywinston.com

Below: Wildflowers Three-flower Cluster Earrings, £12,780, De Beers, www.debeers.com

feature special event

Winter E

Wonderland

in theWharf

free 3 parking

hours

at weekends and bank holidays when you spend ÂŁ10 at any shop, cafĂŠ, bar or restaurant in canary wharf ask at point of purchase for a parking token, one token per visit*

*terms and conditions apply

SHOPPING

New year, new you Come down to Canary Wharf to be sure to start 2012 fresh, fit and healthy

Reebok Sports Club Get fighting fit at Reebok Sports Club this year. As well as a huge selection of machines on which to test yourself, a 13m climbing wall and a stunning pool, Reebok’s new Combat Zone offers a range of classes in everything from MMA to kickboxing, perfect for the modern urban warrior.

Reebok Sports Club Canada Place 020 7970 0912

The Spa at Four Seasons Look fresh faced for the new year with the Spa’s Head and Face treatment for men. This deep-cleansing treatment is designed to eliminate toxins that accumulate in the face. Relaxing head and neck massages oxygenate the skin and boost circulation, encouraging healthier hair and a refreshed-looking face. £80 (60 minutes)

Four Seasons London at Canary Wharf Westferry Circus 020 7510 1999

Freedom Back Clinics Put back pain behind you with the very best osteopathy, physiotherapy, chiropractic and sports massage treatments available at Freedom Back Clinics.

Freedom Back Clinics Canada Place 020 3197 9100

SHOPPING Gore Men’s Gore Tex Active Shell Jacket, £189.99, Runners Need, Churchill Place

Pure Sports Medicine Strains, sprains and syndromes that niggle and complicate your daily and your sporting life can be healed at Pure Sports Medicine, making sure you return to your peak performance in 2012.

Pure Sports Medicine Cabot Place 0844 770 0800 Icebreaker Men’s Bodyfit 200 Top, £52.95, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

9 Day Detox Pack, £39.95, Holland & Barrett , One Canada Square

Adidas miCoach Pacer, £120, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

The Grid Foam Grid Roller, £44.99, Runners Need, Churchill Place

Bobble Water Bottle, Red, £10, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place Wooden Hand Weights, £60- £75, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

Pinnacle Evaporite Three 2012 Road Bike, £1,999.99, Evans Cycles, South Colonnade

Brooks PureCadence Trainers, £99.99, Runners Need, Churchill Place

Garmin Forerunner 610, £359.99, Runners Need, Churchill Place

SHOPPING

Fresh, fit & fabulous For all things fitness head to Canary Wharf, where the range of gyms, stores and spas will ensure you are on top form for the New Year

Virgin Active at Canary Wharf Riverside Push yourself a bit further in 2012 with the help of intense spinning classes at Virgin Active. Along with these toning, cardio classes Virgin offers a vast array of activities and exercise, all set in a stylish and dynamic environment, including a gorgeous pool overlooking the river Thames and the bright city skyline.

Virgin Active at Canary Wharf Riverside Westferry Circus 020 7513 2999

The Spa at Reebok Sports Club Cleanse and refresh after festive indulgences with the selection of energising, detoxing and firming Aromatic Wrap treatments from The Spa at Reebok Sports Club, the ultimate treat for your body for a total transformation. ÂŁ73.50 (55 minutes)

The Spa at Reebok Sports Club Canada Place 020 7970 0912

The Rejuvenation Clinic & MediSpa Look years younger, rather than a year older, with the combination of the traditional and modern scientific treatments at The Rejuvenation Clinic & MediSpa.

The Rejuvenation Clinic & MediSpa Cabot Place 020 7519 6950

SHOPPING Pure Sports Medicine Icebreaker Women’s Bodyfit 200 Top, £52.95, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

Make sports injuries a thing of the past with the array of services and treatments from the experts at Pure Sports Medicine.

Pure Sports Medicine Cabot Place 0844 770 0800

Adidas CT Core Tights, £30, JD Sports, Canada Place

Soleus GPS Watch, £99, Runners Need, Churchill Place

Cybele Lattice Bikram Top, £45 and Bikram Short, £37, both Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place

Sweaty Betty Dynamo Swimsuit, £55, Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place

Get fit for free with the help of Sweaty Betty Canary Wharf. Join pilates sessions and running groups organised by the store to help New Year’s resolutions stick.

Wooden Skipping Rope, £20, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

Sweaty Betty Cabot Place 020 7513 0666

Flaunt It Cami, £55, Sweaty Betty, Cabot Place

Freedom Back Clinics Walk tall in 2012 and put an end to back complaints with the help of the experts at Freedom Back Clinics.

Freedom Back Clinics Canada Place 020 3197 9100

iPod Nano, from £10, Curry’s Digital, Cabot Place Nike Air Max Women’s Trainers, £55, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

ART window galleries

Winter Lights Marbles by Daan Roosegaarde Jubilee Park, Canary Wharf 9 January – 2 March “The children of today are not playing with marbles anymore but are behind a computer screen. How can we use technology in a more social way?” - Daan Roosegaarde Marbles, a new interactive artwork by Dutch artist and designer Daan Roosegaarde, will have its first public presentation in the UK at Canary Wharf’s Jubilee Park. Forming this year’s ‘Winter Lights’ installation to enliven the park’s spaces during the dark winter months, eight large coloured, moulded shapes will be arranged to interact with people walking through the landscape via sound, light and colour, transforming the park into an interactive environment of light and play. Each ‘marble’ contains sensors that can instinctively respond to human proximity or touch, triggering changes of colour and sound. The ‘marbles’ are also able to multiply these interactions between themselves, appearing to communicate with each other. As dusk falls in the park, it will appear to be animated by more than just those who are passing through. Is it the dawn of a new nature evolving from technological innovation?

studioroosegaarde.com

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

Hee Young Kim Tidying and rearranging her wardrobes or drawers has always given Hee Young a sense of satisfaction, knowing that everything is neatly in place. The spaces can be full or empty and Hee Young explores the harmony of the hidden, secret spaces that everyone has, which imply mystery and intrigue.

A Century of Olympic Posters

heeyoungkimjewellery.com

Exhibition organised by the Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Ivanka Kubkler

Lobby, One Canada Square, 16 January – 2 March

The motivation behind Ivanka’s work is her curiosity to discover materials. She manipulates their initial form and creates scenarios through which she wishes to nurture the creative power in individuals.

Canary Wharf begins its celebrations of the 2012 London Olympics with this major touring exhibition from the internationally acclaimed Victoria & Albert Museum. A London exclusive in Olympic year, it features many rare and beautiful examples of posters created for the modern Olympic Games from the early 20th century until now. Posters have been a prime means of communication, heralding the event, building excitement and shaping expectations.

vam.ac.uk

Official Poster for London Olympic Games, 1948 Walter Herz © Courtesy IOC/Victoria and Albert Museum

COMMUNITY GALLERY Situated within the link from Canada Place Mall to the Jubilee Line, the Community Gallery is devoted to exhibiting work produced by local arts projects

Ian Mikardo School 5 January – 29 February “We are secondary school students in Tower Hamlets with severe social emotional and behavioural difficulties. With help, we develop our design skills and produce and sell our artwork to connect with enterprise. This helps to increase our self-confidence and realise our potential. We’ve had a difficult past; help us to build a great future.”

idaworkbox.com

Soo Ji Shin Soo Ji’s designs are fresh and unusual. She strives to bring movement to ordinarily motionless lighting. Chandeliers look as if they are sea creatures that gather when people feed them. Soo Ji’s designs are all bespoke, made by her own hand sewing.

soojis.com

ianmikardo.com

For information on the Visual Arts programme please visit canarywharf.com

NEWS East Enders Tweet For Tower Hamlets’ City Bid Tower Hamlets’ bid to be granted City Status as part of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee recently took Twitter by storm as residents, businesses, politicians and celebrities flooded the site using the #cityoftowerhamlets hash tag. The Twitter campaign day on 14 December 2011 attracted hundreds of messages in support of the ambitious bid. Star of BBC2 singing series The Choir, Gareth Malone, tweeted: “Could this be the next city? Let’s hope so. My first music jobs in London were teaching Tower Hamlets kids to sing.” Throughout the daylong Twitter marathon, people shared images and waxed lyrical about living, working and visiting the area. Among the heavyweight tweeters were Historic Royal Palaces, Canary Wharf Group plc, HSBC and East London Mosque.

Canary Wharf launches art publication Some of country’s most influential art figures recently toasted the launch of Sculpture at Canary Wharf: A Decade of Exhibitions, a beautiful commemorative book celebrating a decade of Canary Wharf’s awardwinning sculpture exhibition programme. Laura Ford, who represented Wales in the 2005 Venice Biennale, Wendy Taylor CBE and Johannes von Stumm, President of the Royal British Society of Sculptors, were among those at the event celebrating the past ten years’ Sculpture in the Workplace programme, curated for Canary Wharf Group by Ann Elliott. The beautifully-designed and fully-illustrated hardback book documents the 130 artists and 53 exhibitions that have taken place in One Canada Square and Jubilee Park, including those by Lynn Chadwick, Phyllida Barlow, Phillip King and most recently Christopher Le Brun – the newly-elected President of the Royal Academy of Arts.

Greenwich Students Win Wood Wharf Design Competition Two landscape architecture students from the University of Greenwich have upstaged the country’s best young design talent by winning a competition for one of London’s most prestigious development sites. Alick Nee and Danny Mitchell won a competition run by the Landscape Institute, Canary Wharf Group and Townshend Landscape Architects to design event facilities at Wood Wharf, immediately to the east of Canary Wharf in central London. The winning students’ design featured the ‘Great British Summer’ theme, with a meadow of British wild flowers divided by walking paths in the shape of the Union Jack, plant life to give a ‘green’ backing for structures such as big screens and large windsocks and umbrellas to ‘celebrate’ the great British summer’s wind and rain.

events

Sculpt, Skate,

Dance & Laugh...

....in Canary Wharf. Shake off winter blues with a skate around the rink, an enthusiastic attempt at ice sculpting or by dancing at the Tea Dance or Silent Disco

LONDON ICE SCULPTING FESTIVAL The annual London Ice Sculpting Festival returns to Canary Wharf. Enjoy two professional ice sculpting competitions, take part in a free ice carving masterclass, make a snowman in the snow pit and browse the stalls at the Frost Fayre for warming winter drinks and snacks. The main competition sees eight international teams battle it out on two metre high blocks of ice interpreting the theme of Winter Sports and following the main competition one member of each team will take on a speed sculpting challenge on the theme of Team Spirit. Watch as the creations take life throughout the festival before finding out who is declared the winner on Saturday at 4pm.

canarywharf.com / londonicesculptingfestival.co.uk

CANARY WHARF ICE RINK

Frost Fayre Montgomery Square Friday 13 January 9am-7pm Saturday 14 January 8am-6pm Snow Pit Montgomery Square Friday 13 January 10am-6pm Saturday 14 January 10am-6pm Masterclasses Canada Square Park Friday 13 January 10am-6pm Saturday 14 January 10am-6pm

Jubilee Place Mall Friday 13 January 12-4pm Saturday 14 January 10am- 6pm First come, first served at Masterclasses and Snow Pit. Masterclasses: Age 12+ Sessions on the hour, 20 minutes and 40 minutes past Friday 13 and Saturday 14 January Throughout Canary Wharf, E14 Friday 9am- 7pm, Saturday 8am- 6pm FREE

The Canary Wharf Ice Rink is as enchanting and full of winter fun as ever. Nestled in Canada Square Park, skaters can glide under the gleaming towers and twinkling trees full of fairy lights in one of London’s most iconic settings. It’s perfect for an office outing, fun family day or a romantic date for two. With more than 200 shops, bars and restaurants to choose from throughout Canary Wharf a visit to the ice rink could easily turn into a whole day out. See you on the ice!

Until 19 February Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf, E14 Visit canarywharficerink.com for details of ticket prices and booking, session times, skating lessons and more.

CANARY WHARF COMEDY CLUB Featuring* Holly Walsh, Nathan Caton, Gary Delaney, Tom Wrigglesworth plus one act TBC After a sell-out autumn season, featuring a range of comedic talent, Canary Wharf Comedy Club returns in February with five heavyweights of the comedy circuit to shake off the winter blues. Among them are Edinburgh Comedy Best Newcomer and TV regular Holly Walsh, rising star Nathan Caton with his hilarious social and political anecdotes and charismatic wordsmith Tom Wrigglesworth plus master of the killer oneliner, Gary Delaney.

Monday 13 February 7.15pm (doors 6.30pm) East Wintergarden, 43 Bank Street, Canary Wharf, E14 Tickets £12 Booking Information: In advance: Visit ticketweb. co.uk or call 0844 847 2268 (Booking fee applies) In person: On the door, subject to availability *Line up correct at time of publication Unreserved seating, full bar and food. Only items purchased on the premises may be consumed.

Tom Wrigglesworth

VINTAGE NIGHTS

Tuesday 14 – Friday 17 February East Wintergarden, 43 Bank Street, Canary Wharf, E14 Welcome to a celebration of all things retro. Relive the 20s to the 90s in a glamorous week of dance, music and vintage TV.

Tuesday 14 February VALENTINE’S TEA DANCE

Workshop from 6pm. Tea Dance 7.30-10.30pm Tickets: £12, or £20 for both Tea Dance and Swing Dance (includes complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival) Waltz, cha-cha and foxtrot with the 11-piece Berkeley Square Society Band. Start with a taster workshop to learn the basics then take to the floor. Enjoy classic dances from Ragroof Theatre’s ladies and gents.

Friday 17 February SILENT DISCO

8pm-Midnight Tickets: £10 (includes complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival) No speakers; just wireless headsets where you choose what you dance to. Two DJs compete – who will you choose? Vintage vinylist Yvan Serrano Fontova aka Healer Selecta or disco, electro and dance from cult DJ Princess Julia?

VINTAGE MOBILE CINEMA

4pm-Midnight FREE* (Space is limited, and available on a first come, first served basis) Enjoy classic episodes of Top of the Pops from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s in the plush surrounds of the 1960s Vintage Mobile Cinema parked in front of the East Wintergarden. The only surviving unit from a fleet of seven built by the Government in 1967 to promote British industry, it now makes a perfect bijou cinema.

Wednesday 15 February Sing-a-Long-a Grease

7-10pm (Doors 6.30pm) Tickets: £15 (includes complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival) This brand new sing-a-long version of the classic film is not to be missed. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and audience participation is essential!

Thursday 16 February SWING DANCE

Vintage Nights Booking Information In advance: Visit ticketweb.co.uk or call 0844 847 2268 (Booking fee applies) In person: On the door, subject to availability

Workshop from 6pm Swing Dance 7.30-10.30pm Tickets: £12, or £20 for both Tea Dance and Swing Dance (includes complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival) Come early for an introduction to vintage dance styles from the JiveSwing.com folks then get ready to lindyhop, jive and jitterbug the night away.

Full bar, snacks and cloakroom. Only items purchased on the premises may be consumed Swing Dance

For more information visit canarywharf.com

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fashion for your eyes on;ly interiors ethical decor health & beauty one small step . ...................

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THE DRESS OF YOUR DREAMS

W There can be no greater wardrobe investment for a woman than the dress she will wear on the most significant day of her life

ho better to make sure that this investment is worth it than British designer Jenny Packham, whose iconic wedding dress designs have enthralled women across the globe? Her latest bridal collection is inspired by “a fusion of the iridescence and seraphic beauty of nocturnal butterflies”; silk tulles and exquisite French lace, embellished with Swarovski jewels, catch the light beautifully. Champagne silvers, delicate golds, soft ivories and sophisticated whites sum up the collection’s palette.

The Anya dress (pictured) features a tight bodice studded with translucent crystals. A bare décolletage is perfectly complimented by the long, white flowing train of the bottom half of the dress, delicately separated by an opulent champagne-coloured sash. Elegant and refined, this jaw-dropping design is guaranteed to make you the belle of the ball on your big day. In addition to bridal wear, Jenny Packham produces ready-to-wear, resort, accessories and lingerie collections. Her designs have been worn by a multitude of A-listers including the Duchess of Cambridge and Jennifer Aniston. n

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14/12/2011 12:10

fashion

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women’s fashion

news A Stella Celebration Stella McCartney is another fashion guru known for her green credentials; the Stella McCartney stores, HQ and studios in the UK are powered by Ecotricity, a company which invests profits in renewable sources of energy, and is committed to recycling office waste. Between 26 January and 14 February, a celebration of the designer’s work, entitled ‘World of Stella’, will be running at Selfridges; the installation will comprise a new fragrance launch and display of ready-to-wear, lingerie, accessories and other collections. www.stellamccartney.com

Quote of the month

Giving Back Designer Dame Vivienne Westwood has long been a passionate environmental campaigner, launching in the last few months her eponymous Palladium collection, with suitably green motifs, as a call to action to prevent climate change. Having worked with the charity Cool Earth for the past three years, Vivienne has recently invested £1 million of her

own finances as part of a huge fundraising drive for the rainforest charity. The campaign is entitled ‘No Fun Being Extinct’ and will run over an 18 month period to secure three of the world’s most endangered forests. Fellow fashionistas Sadie Frost and Kate Moss are also supporting the cause.

www.harrods.com

www.eco-age.com

This wintery, cream faux fur Tibi coat is an ethical classic. The taupe tone is luxurious and versatile, while the shortsleeved, collarless design, as well as its exposed zip, give it a modern edge. Team with faux leather leggings and wedge boots for a look which will take you from day to night. Harrods, Tibi

KATHARINE HAMNETT

www.coolearth.org

MUST-HAVE ITEM

Faux Fur Coat, £625

There is an industry model which rhe earth can benefit from.

Website

TREND: cOLLARS

Under the guidance of creative director Livia Firth, Eco Age highlights the best in ethical fashion brands and good causes. The website is entering a new stage of development with even more picture galleries and charity news to complement a selection of stylish pieces you can purchase online, including cosy cashmere cardigans and fair-trade handbags.

Virtually all the looks in the Miu Miu A/W11 show featured collars, worn over everything from pretty tea dresses to voluminous jumpers. We love the idea of teaming a glitzy collar necklace with a simple white T-shirt, for understated appeal. Fiona Paxton Sequin Collar Necklace, £190, Urban Outfitters www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk

Function in an elegant form. Now at our Centre. The eagerly anticipated Audi Q3 has arrived and is now available to order. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to find out more about our first ever compact SUV, or to arrange a test drive, visit your local Audi Centre or audi.co.uk/Q3

Docklands Audi 64 Marsh Wall South Quay Docklands London E14 9SL 0207 536 0555 www.docklands.audi.co.uk

Official fuel consumption figures for the Audi Q3 range in mpg (l/100km) from: Urban: 27.7 (10.2) - 45.6 (6.2), Extra Urban 44.1 (6.4) - 60.1 (4.7), Combined 36.7 (7.7) - 54.3 (5.2). CO2 emissions 179 - 137g/km.

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05/12/2011 15:47

fashion

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Three of the Best...

Business Suits

men’s fashion

news

First impressions are everything; never leave the house in a suit that doesn’t say sleek, sharp and smart

Best of British As this is our investment issue, we thought we’d highlight our love for a true, time-transcending piece of British menswear. Like the Burberry trench coat and Church’s brogue shoes, Barbour’s International motorcycle jacket has become an iconic must-have for anyone with a love of traditional English tailoring. This January, following the jacket’s 75th birthday last year, Barbour is launching its new International range. Alongside the legendary Barbour International biker jacket in signature wax, the collection explores motorcycling themes and details in lighter weights and nylons. Key models from Barbour’s motorcycling range are reworked in bold monochromatic colours, while details such as black and white check lining and black and yellow studs add a line of modernity and dynamism. When it comes to the men’s stylestakes, the Barbour International never goes out of fashion, proved by the fact that the limited edition modernday versions are already expected to become collectibles. www.barbour.com

Wool cashmere suit The Chester by Chester Barrie £380, www.chesterbarrie.co.uk

Wool and mohair suit Mayfair Richard James at John Lewis £485, www.johnlewis.com

From Paris with love Lovers of London-based Corthay need no longer rely on Harrods for the shoe brand’s distinctive footwear. Last month saw the much anticipated opening of the company’s London Maison in Belgravia. The 24A Motcomb Street address pays homage to the shoe company’s flagship Paris store and will stock Corthay’s full ready to wear collection. Known for the quality of its craftsmanship, Corthay employs Beachwood shanks to ensure rigidity of shoes’ arches, natural cork to provide insulation and ‘slow’ leathers that have spent a full year in a tanning basin before they are put into manufacture.

Bishopsgate suit

www.corthay.com

Reiss, £495, www.reissonline.com

Eyes

for your

Photographer:

James Knapp Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

only

Black tuxedo, £1,195, white pique dress shirt, £195 enamel dress studs, £300, pocket square, £55, all Dunhill, 0845 4580 779, www.dunhill.com Velvet bow tie, £145, Tom Ford at Harrods, as before

Black silk dress, £1,995, Vionnet at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, 020 7235 5000, www.harveynichols.com Brilliant cut diamond in 18-carat white gold hoops, £76,000 and brilliant cut diamond in platinum three stone ring £120,000, Boodles, 020 7283 7284, www.boodles.com

White evening shirt, £195, Dunhill, as before, black satin ruffle neck dress £1,230, Moschino at Harvey Nichols, as before Diamond and 18-carat white gold cufflinks, £11,350, and Premier Automatic Perpetual Calendar watch in 18-carat white gold, POA, both Harry Winston 171 New Bond Street, 020 7907 8800, www.harrywinston.com Diamond sunflower and platinum cluster earrings, matching bracelet and diamond pear shape solitaire 2.08-carat ring, all POA, Harry Winston, as before

Dress, £1,230, Moschino at Harvey Nichols, as before Swarovski crystal Imelda clutch bag, £650, Gina Couture Old Bond Street, www.gina.com Platinum and round diamond Lorinda earrings, £73,200 William & Son, 10/14 Mount Street, 020 7493 8385 5.25-carat diamond and platinum ring, £190,000 Bentley & Skinner, 55 Piccadilly, 020 7629 0651

Silver and black rayon mix dress, £1,970, Hervé Leger 29 Lowndes Street, 020 7201 2590 BZero1 white gold and pavé diamonds ring, £5,700 BZero1 white gold and pave diamonds cuff, £6,800, and BZero1 white gold and pave diamonds earrings, £4,750 all Bulgari, www.bulgari.com Silver cufflinks, £220, and 42mm steel case and bracelet watch with silver dial, £4,800 Bulgari, as before

Hair: Paula Mann at Models1 Creative

Make-up: Kate Hughes at Tiger Creative using Collection Les Scintillances de Chanel

health & beauty

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health & beauty

news

Your chance to win with Concept2 Canary Wharf magazine has teamed up with rowing machine specialists Concept2 to invite you to an exclusive event on Thursday 26 January. Taking place at Canary Wharf’s Tompkins bar, located on the ground floor of the landmark Pan Peninsula building, the event will give guests the opportunity to win two exclusive tickets to the Stewards Enclosure during Henley Royal Regatta - an enclosure usually reserved for international rowers and those who have competed in either the Oxford-Cambridge Varsity Boat Race or at Henley itself. In addition to free champagne, guests will be able to meet Olympic Gold Medal rower Greg Searle and will receive Concept2 goody bags worth £50 each. To attend the event please rsvp to admin@runwildgroup.co.uk with your name and the name of any additional guests you would like to bring.

To avoid resembling Julia Roberts from Pretty Woman, here are five easy steps to ensure that your makeup stays simple, fresh and natural for time in the office 1. Tinted Moisturiser, £33 Laura Mercier at Space NK Apothecary 2. Touche Éclat Original complexion highlighter, £24.50 Yves Saint Laurent 3. Joues Contraste in Rose Ecrin powder blush, £31, Chanel 4. Ultimate natural mascara in black, £20, Shu Uemura at Space NK Apothecary 5. Satin finish lipstick in ‘Cruising’ colour, £17.50, NARS

Concept2 at tompkins Thursday 26 January, 6.15-8.15pm 4 Pan Peninsula square Canary Wharf

treatment of the month: Swedish Massage at O SPA With the post-Christmas season upon us, I could think of no greater excuse to indulge in some anti-stress therapy. Luckily, O SPA offers the perfect cure. The intense 60 minute Swedish massage is a classic European relaxation treatment involving long strokes and kneading techniques which help to improve circulation, ease muscle pain and lower stress levels, leaving you relaxed and rejuvenated. Drink plenty of water before and after the treatment as the sedative lavender and intoxicating oil used during the massage can cause dehydration; I was left feeling extremely relaxed after the experience. O SPA Swedish massage (60 minutes): £69 O SPA, Cabot Place

ONE SMALL With New Year comes an onslaught of resolutions to give up all bad habits, with a view to reinvigorating every area of our lives. Three quarters of these vows are broken each year so our advice is this: don’t do everything at once but choose one thing to focus on until it has improved. Here are some suggestions to help with that most important resolution, whether you choose to prioritize fitness levels, eating habits or mental attitude FIGHTING FIT AT REEBOK

Pandora Jones tries out the impressive facilities at Reebok Sports Club in Canary Wharf

I wanted to check out Reebok last year but was always slightly daunted by the statistics: at 100,000 square feet, it has the UK’s largest spin studio (80 bikes), 500 pieces of strength and cardio training equipment, 20 different daily classes in its five studios, power plates, indoor golf, a sports hall and a 13-metre high climbing wall. Having not visited the gym for a year, I found out what Reebok had to offer.

Session 1: I meet my trainer Will and we discuss what I’d like to achieve. Because of my sedentary job and wrist and arm pain, as well as posture that could be improved, we agree that core strength and back/arm muscles are to be worked on, predominantly. I’d like to be able to go on the climbing wall at some point and Will assures me that this will be possible after an initiation session. I also want to learn some cardio and weights routines that I can

then do by myself, without guidance. This first session comprised a warm up on the cross trainer; 30 floors on the step machine (it was meant to be 50!); kettle bell exercises; jogging; more kettle bell reps; a treadmill run; and a warm down. I had always wanted to try kettle bell exercises so having someone explain how to use them properly was great. Although it was exhausting, I managed to get through all the exercises. The day after, I was aching quite a bit, proof of my taxing work out.

Session 2: With Georgia this time, we launched right in and did a completely different work out. Although it was really hard work, there were no moments of feeling nauseous from exertion. I completed the following: a five minute cross train; six minutes rowing (two minutes then 30 second break each time); power plate exercises; cycling sprints and 30 second uphill, standing sprints (slower but harder); monkey bars; cable flies and weights; star jumps, burpees, lunges; and warm down stretching on the power plates. With Georgia’s encouragement, I managed

a lot more than I thought I could and she pushed me to go faster each time, or at least to finish reps of the harder exercises. I had wanted to try power plates and definitely need to have them explained to me, as some exercises were difficult, involving a lot of balance and core/leg strength. We agreed that classes worth me trying were Fight Klub and, to my delight, hula lessons. Reebok offers free fitness testing, gym inductions and personalised fitness programmes so what are you waiting for? Reebok Sports Club, Canada Square www.reebokclub.co.uk

Our Top 5 Classes: Zumba Indoor Cycle Fight Klub Hula-Core Abs of Steel

health & beauty

concierge comment

THE LEMON DETOX

Annabel Harrison tests out the quick-fix detox favoured by A-listers worldwide Following the indulgences of the festive period, it’s tempting to do something drastic to restore a feeling of well-being to your body; too much alcohol, not enough sleep and too many mince pies, Yule log and bacon-wrapped sausages. Enter the Lemon Detox. I’d read about it, following Beyoncé’s drastic pre-Dream Girls body blitz, and it sounded like just the thing to banish the toxins from my body. It varies in length and intensity and can be altered specifically to suit every need and lifestyle, from a five to ten day fast to more relaxed food combining variations. I certainly couldn’t manage a ten-day fast so what I tried, as a gentle introduction to the programme, was a threeday fast, consuming only the Lemon Detox concoction, made up of water, fresh lemon juice, cayenne pepper or ground ginger and Madal Bal Natural Tree Syrup. This last ingredient is the crucial one: both organic and fair trade, it consists of four different South East Asian palm syrups rich in essential minerals and nutrients such as manganese, zinc, potassium and calcium, giving your body the essential nutrients it needs to be able to carry out the fast. The drink can be consumed hot or cold and, believe it or not, I didn’t feel hungry. At least, I was fine in the confines of my own home, where I could distract myself easily and avoid food. However, once in the office on day three, my resolve wavered and crumbled as colleagues ate delicioussmelling food all around me. My advice? Do this when you have a few days to yourself and feel your skin brighten, your stomach flatten and the excess of Christmas drain away. The Lemon Detox is fully endorsed by leading medical experts including Jan de Vries, acclaimed naturopath, nutritionist and author, Amanda Griggs, leading nutritionist from the prestigious Balance Clinic in London, Doctor Sarah Brewer, eminent nutrition expert and health journalist and Suzi Grant, nutritionist and acclaimed author. Benefits can include weight loss, reduced stress, clearer skin, boosted energy levels and improved sleep. Madal Bal Natural Tree Syrup is priced £42.99 for a 1-litre tin and is available from leading health food shops, beauty salons and spas nationwide. For stockist details call 0845 370 1012 or visit www. lemondetox.com

Think Positive

Sharon Wright, performance and health hypnotherapist, sets out some practical ways to create a sense of ‘wrapping up’ the holiday season in order to refresh enthusiasm and release much-needed energy We are all left with loose ends after Christmas, including credit card bills we’d rather not see, gifts we’d rather not have, food and sweets we are tired of eating and to top it all, feelings of guilt about how we spent our time and money. But did you know that this lack of completion and self-criticism creates the most tension and stress as we enter the New Year and attempt to re-engage with work? The Lessons Learnt exercise can help this feeling in three ways: • Reducing stress as you ‘frame’ what you can’t change and by creating a positive state as you reflect on what went well • Releasing tension as your physiology gets a signal of ‘completion’ for all the things that are ‘nagging’ away at you and occupying your thoughts • Creating a sense of control and preparation for the future. Simply start two columns, writing ‘What would I do differently?’ in the first and ‘Why?’ in the second. Include everything from buying clothes and food to people you wish you hadn’t invited over. Include things that went well too. For example: “Don’t bring cards into the house. Suggest buying and writing while having coffee out.” Why? Because I wasted money, time and felt bad for not sending them. Some clients reach around 50 items on their lists. When complete, put safely away until next year. For each new gift that you want to keep in your life, remove two old items and donate them to a charity shop. This will help you with the process of letting go of the old and appreciating what’s new. Take leftover chocolates, cake and biscuits to work and share them among work colleagues or hand them out on the train or bus, if you feel brave enough. This will clear clutter and allow space to breathe new life into your surroundings. You will also benefit from the release of endorphins and hormones such as oxytocin as you create a sense of compassion, kindness and connection with other people. So take responsibility now, for increasing your own enthusiasm and help to bring energy, satisfaction and joy back into your own life and those around you. n www.sharon-wright.com

DESIGNSALE Great savings on sofas, tables, wall systems and lots more! Visit our professional Design Consultants in store and ask about our Free Interior Design Service or see all the great offers on www.boconcept.co.uk

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interiors

news High-tech Home On 16 January John Lewis is unveiling Krushr, a suitably sci-fi sounding kitchen appliance which makes recycling all the more convenient. It stores both general waste and recyclable materials and compacts packaging by 75 per cent to save space. The unit can also be integrated into a sideboard or is available to stand alone, making it a viable tool in the eco-friendly market for a vast number of London homes. Krushr appliances start from £429 www.johnlewis.com

Award for Ethics

Date for the Diary The World Wildlife Fund has declared 8.30pm on 31 March to be the start of this year’s Earth Hour. At this time, an estimated 1.8 billion people, in 138 countries around the globe, will be encouraged to save electricity and unite in 60

minutes of darkness in order to recognise the beauty of the earth and the need to protect it from various environmental challenges, including deforestation and climate change.

Nkuku has been declared www.notonthehighstreet.com’s most ethical business, managing to consolidate a commitment to fair trade and the environment into its working approach. The site showcases pieces handmade by artisans who are recruited across India and these exceptional wares include beautiful coffee tables, ornate metal lanterns and baskets woven from natural fibres by a collective of 400 craftswomen. www.nkuku.com

www.wwf.org.uk//earthhour

Conscientious Design Following on from the quirky, monochrome Karl Lagerfeld tumblers featured on this page recently, this month we were glad to discover some similarly contemporary pieces from Bib & Sola. The new brand is the brainchild of lifestyle designer Kira Heuer, who fuses her talent for fashion and design with a passion for sustainable living. The range is inspired by the composure of female water bearers across the world and a percentage of the proceeds from each sale goes towards The One Foundation’s development of pump water systems in Malawi. www.bibandsola.com

get the look... 45 Park Lane

45 Park Lane

Curzon Suites

Sister hotel of The Dorchester, 45 Park Lane is a decadent establishment with one of the most desired addresses in the capital, just a short distance from Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exclusive shopping areas. Opened last September, New York-based architect and interior designer Thierry Despont has succeeded in creating a hotel with the aura of a private residence; a suave, glossy, masculine style is simultaneously contrasted with light textures and peppered with art, culture and history in a gloriously idiosyncratic fashion.

Located on floor six with stunning views of Hyde Park, the Curzon Suites are luxurious corner rooms which fuse a contemporary style with glamorous Art Deco influences. Each features state-of-the-art technology, including mirrors with integrated television screens. They have been exquisitely furnished with double vanities, king-size beds and spacious marble bathrooms, consolidating comfort and elegance. www.45parklane.com

interiors

concierge

Finishing Touches Hand-blown glass ornaments are a great way to inject colour and interest into a room with a retro twist. Tahiti Sphere, £690, Peter Layton www.londonglassblowing.co.uk

Mirror, Mirror Clean lines and enhanced functionality with a vintage touch make this a bedroom classic. Decadent Deco Mirror, £195 The French Bedroom Company www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Add Atmosphere Iconic, archived prints add an air of sophistication to any space. A selection is available at John Lewis. Getty Images Gallery James Dean & Ursula Andress Framed Print, £495, John Lewis www.johnlewis.com

Cosy Corner Mood Lighting Soft, simple lighting designs epitomise the understated finish of the Curzon Suites. This couture piece was inspired by elegant Audrey Hepburn. Tiffany Table Lamp, £1,500, Charles Burnand, www.charlesburnand.com

The Curzon Suite chairs are sumptuous, ruby red velvet designs akin to those of a high-end cigar lounge of the 1970s. Fleming & Howland’s John Stuart Mill wing arm chair is an equally stylish choice. John Stuart Mill Wing Arm Chair £2,195, Fleming & Howland www.chesterfields1780.com

the trend Style your home ethically without forsaking elegance and take inspiration from the organic, the upcycled and the environmentally sound

Seagrass Fine Herringbone Rug, POA The Natural Rug Store, www.naturalrugstore.co.uk Tall Copper Candlestick, ÂŁ60, Danaqa www.danaqa.com

Oval Shaped Copper Vase, ÂŁ35 Danaqa, www.danaqa.com

interiors

concierge

Glass & Brass Chandelier with Arrow Shaped Drops, £1,295, Barovier & Tosa at Decoratum, www.decoratum.com Cushion Cover with River £65, Danaqa, www.danaqa.com

Cashmere Hottie Cover, £75, Celtic Sheepskin www.celtic-sheepskin.co.uk

Illuminated Dining Table, £12,950 Decoratum, www.decoratum.com

Umbra Minimax Vintage Frame, £16 John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com

High-sided Armchair reupholstered in Fornasetti Fabric £2,750, Decoratum, www.decoratum.com

Metallic Gold/Pewter Cushion, £65 Mumo, www.amara.co.uk

Infant Fleece, £75, Celtic Sheepskin www.celtic-sheepskin.co.uk

QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LEATHER GOODS SINCE 1934

The Bullion Collection www.ettinger.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)20 8877 1616

Ettinger Bullion Ad Mayfair Jan12 297x210.indd 1

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Californication

At one point, the waiting list for a Ferrari California was three years; not surprising for a car that combines the style of a Spider with the speed of a F430

o obsessed with aerodynamics was the team behind the new Ferrari California that the car was put through more than 1,000 hours of wind-tunnel testing before the final design was approved. Testament to this attention to detail, the California is now the most aerodynamic Ferrari ever produced, although the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bragging rights donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop there. It may be 180kg heavier and 30hp less powerful than the iconic F430 but the California matches its stable mate in every other aspect that matters. The car will accelerate to 62mph in less than

four seconds and, given the room, can reach a top speed of 193mph. Coupled to a sevenspeed dual clutch transmission, the Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4,300cc V8 engine features direct fuel injection that both enhances performance and reduces fuel consumption. Innovative touches come in the form of a folding hard top, flat crankshaft and exclusive F1-Trac traction control. While the modern-day California may hark back to the looks of the original 1957 model, as the first Ferrari to feature multi-link rear suspension and a front V8 engine, the current car is very much a motor for a 21st century driver. n

HIGH OCTANE INVESTING

Forget stamps, forgo stocks and shares… an old car is the upand-coming place to put your money, says Matthew Carter

1957 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Coupé

BMW M3 E30 1987

hirty years ago the then-new Classic and Sports Car magazine ran a reader competition as part of an early promotional push. The prize was a classic car, a 1970 Aston Martin DB6 Mk 2 Volante, one of just 37 built. The magazine reckoned the car was worth £25,000, a substantial sum back in the day. So substantial that the lucky winner sold it shortly after he took delivery and pocketed the cash. What a shame he didn’t wait a while. Astons have skyrocketed in value and if he still owned the DB6 today, he could expect to get £350,000 for it, and he would have had 30 years of enjoying a pretty special car. Granted, there would have been running costs; he would have had to pay to insure it, to have it serviced and perhaps repaired during that time. But whichever way you look at it, that’s a pretty strong investment. The trick, of course, would have been knowing back in 1982 what Aston Martins might be worth three decades hence. This is not a problem that’s gone away. “Which classic cars are going to jump in value over the next few years? If I knew that, I certainly wouldn’t tell you.” The speaker is Max Girardo, the head of RM Auctions in Europe, one of the leaders in the classic car auction field. RM’s most recent headline sale, in Battersea Park at the end of 2011, saw an extremely rare 1958 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Tour de France sell for £2.24 million. The star lot at RM’s next showcase event, coinciding with the Monaco Grand Prix, is a road-registered

racer, the 1968 Alfa Tipo 33. It won’t reach the dizzy heights of the Ferrari price but, thanks in part to its hugely original condition, it should easily top £500,000 and the new owner will undoubtedly get to show the car at Goodwood, one of those events where you can’t buy a place on the grid. It’s not all top end stuff, though, as that Battersea sale also saw a comparatively humble Triumph TR4 go for a hefty £33,600. It all proves that the collector’s car market is booming, despite the economic gloom threatening to engulf us all. “It’s all about passion,” says Max. “Our customers love and enjoy cars. They’ll happily spend £200,000 on a Ferrari Daytona and then make sure they use the car.” That’s the key to the collector’s car market: cars are far more exciting than stocks and shares – and less volatile – and, frankly, are more fun than stamps, jewellery or paintings. What better way to enjoy your money? Sadly, the chances of making a fortune from rare Ferraris, Bugattis and the like have probably passed as, when they come to market, they already have serious price tags. The trick is to uncover what’s going to be hot tomorrow when today’s prices are still cool. Despite his earlier threat, Max does have some suggestions for future classics. “I think the time is near when interesting cars from the 1980s will start to go up in value. The original BMW M3, for example, was the first of the breed and is generally acknowledged as a real driver’s

motoring

calibre

car. Avoid the ‘ordinary’ versions, especially those bought by the impecunious when values went right down and were then used as track day specials. “Look instead for a limited edition Evo model or models like the M3 Ravaglia, built to celebrate the success of Roberto Ravaglia, a leading BMW works racing driver. Rarity always helps.” Also in the 80s, the world rally championship was run for Group B supercars, hugely powerful racing cars, built to be hurled down narrow slippery rally stages rather than race tracks. They were outlawed after too many accidents claimed too many lives, but not before road-going versions had been built to comply with international competition regulations. Find yourself a pristine, low mileage Ford RS200 at the right price and you could be sitting on a serious investment. Driving it will be a noisy, raw, visceral experience, you won’t be able to use it to go on holiday (no luggage space) and getting parts won’t be easy, but you are guaranteed to have fun and to turn heads at the same time. As a rally car, the shortened Audi Quattro S1 was a formidable weapon, winning championships as it snarled its way around the world’s rally stages. As a road car, it was compromised by nervous handling and an engine built for competition, but as an investment, it’s looking strong. The same goes for the ugly duckling MG Metro 6R4. “Always buy the best example you can afford, especially

when it comes to the body as repairs will be costly and you’re unlikely to recoup the outlay. Go for a ‘matching numbers’ car, one where the chassis and engine numbers match the original paperwork, as a car with the ‘wrong’ engine will never be worth as much,” advises Max, who also points to a growing trend for what’s known as the ‘preservation class’ – cars in good original condition, rather than heavily restored examples. And, he says, if you do buy a car, use it, especially if you see it as an investment. “Use it for two reasons. The first is to have fun – there’s nothing quite like driving a classic convertible on a sunny Sunday morning. But the second reason is just as important. Drive it to events like Goodwood and to club outings where the car becomes an advert for itself. Quite often a fellow enthusiast will see your car and, wrapped up in the spirit of the day, will make a generous offer for it there and then.” Where to look? Probably the best places to start are to two leading UK classic car magazines – Classic and Sports Car and Octane. Both carry page after page of classifieds from private individuals and specialist traders, as well as display ads from the leading classic auction houses like Bonhams, Gooding & Company and RM. But you’ll need to move fast. Another growing trend is the rise in interest in historically fascinating old cars from emerging markets such as Russia, Eastern Europe and especially China. Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines. n

THE NAME

GAME

They call it a Chrysler but the little Ypsilon city car is Italian to its core, and that means it ought to be labelled a Lancia, says Matthew Carter

hryslers are big American cars – station wagons, people carriers and vast sedans from a land where size is of utmost importance. Lancias are small, distinctive-looking hatchbacks and superminis from Italy, a land where style matters most. So the car you see pictured on these pages is a Lancia, right? Er, wrong. It’s a Chrysler… or, rather, it is now. This naming nonsense has come about since Fiat (owner

of Lancia) took over Chrysler, the recovering American giant. After a short hiatus, cars like the Chrysler Voyager and 300C will soon be back in Chrysler showrooms up and down the country, where they will be joined by small Lancias like the Ypsilon and Delta. However, you’ll look in vain for the Lancia name. Apparently, the only people in the UK who know what a Lancia is are motoring hacks. Far more recognise the American brand name, hence the decision to brand them

motoring

all Chryslers here, even if every single one (big Yank Tanks included) are called Lancias in mainland Europe. Confused? As an unimportant motoring hack, I mourn the loss of the Lancia name, remembering greats like the Fulvia, Flavia and more recently the Delta Integrale. But equally, I welcome the return of cars like the Ypsilon, no matter what it’s called. Now time to stop the moaning and look at the car itself. And look, open-mouthed, is the first thing you do with the Ypsilon. In a sea of ‘me-too’ city cars, the Ypsilon’s styling might be regarded as ‘challenging’. Personally, I love the fact that it’s different, distinctive and, well, a bit odd. The Ypsilon is based on the running gear of the Fiat 500 and Ford Ka but the chassis has been stretched so the Chrysler has four doors (with hidden door handles on the rear pair to make it look more like a coupé) and some decent legroom in the rear. It’s also taller than most of its rivals, which helps to provide decent headroom. As a result, the interior feels wonderfully roomy and, with its centrally mounted instruments, it’s as distinctive as the exterior. There’s no doubt it looks and feels more grown up than the Fiat and the Ford, much less of a toy and more of a sophisticated city car. That’s certainly how it’s being priced. The most basic version, the 1.2-litre S, starts at £10,695 before options, while the car tested, the TwinAir Limited, is £14,495 (plus an extra £1,200 if you want the auto). That’s not cheap for a city runabout, even if Limited versions do get leather upholstery as standard. Of the three engines offered – two petrol and one diesel – it’s the smallest petrol that’s the most interesting. The turbocharged TwinAir is a tiny yet radical sub 900cc twin cylinder unit that delivers 85hp for performance that’s nippy enough in the city. More importantly, it produces low emissions and can, if you’re careful, return nearly 75mpg. There’s no road tax and no congestion charge to pay either. To achieve those fuel figures, though, you need to have a feather-light touch on the throttle, keeping revs below around 2,000rpm and avoiding hard acceleration at all times, difficult as the delightfully thrummy twin thrives on revs. Start&Stop, which automatically cuts the engine when the car is stationary, and which is standard across the range, does its bit to keep emissions low and economy high. Lancias always used to be more sporting than most and that DNA runs through the Ypsilon, though the overall package veers more towards luxury than out-and-out handling prowess. It rides well and the feeling of well-being is underscored by the excellent fit and finish of the interior and, in Limited guise at least, of the classy leather trim. Even though it’s longer than the baby Fiat, its compact overall dimensions mean it’s easy to park, even if visibility out of the back isn’t the best; one option worth considering is a device called Magic Parking. This uses radar sensors to check if parking slots are big enough and then takes over steering duties to manoeuvre the car into the space. While you’re looking at options, why not tick the box marked two-tone? Chrysler prefers to call it bi-colour, with the bonnet and roof painted in a contrasting shade to the rest of the body, and this offers a classy look and one pioneered by Rolls-Royce in the past. That sums up Ypsilon. It’s different and more sophisticated than the opposition. Just a shame about the badge. n

calibre

IN BRIEF Car: Chrysler Ypsilon TwinAir Limited Price: £14,495 Engine: 875 cc twin-cylinder petrol Power: 85 hp Drive: Front-wheel drive Performance: 109 mph maximum 0–62 mph in 11.5 seconds

calibre motoring

TOYOTA GETS RACY The Japanese giant remembers how to make driving fun. Matthew Carter reports

oyota is to cars as Hoover is to vacuum cleaners. Both make worthy machines that do a job well but ones you’ll find it hard to fall in love with. That wasn’t always the case with Toyota. It has produced some fine driving machines in its past – think Corolla GT, Supra and the original mid-engined MR2. But recently its products have had all the charisma of a cardboard box – Auris and Avenis, to name a couple. That will all change in June this year when the first deliveries of the new GT 86 arrive in the UK. GT 86 is a purpose-designed 2+2 sports car with a front-mounted engine and, joy of joys, rear-wheel drive. The chassis has double wishbone rear suspension for sharp and nimble handling, a low centre of gravity and compact overall dimensions.

Power comes from a flat four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine (courtesy of Subaru) that pumps out 197bhp for brisk performance. Its lightweight, aerodynamically efficient body embodies design cues from Toyota’s sporting past, while the focused nature of the beast even runs to the steering wheel which, at 365mm in diameter, is apparently the smallest ever fitted to a production Toyota. According to Toyota, “the GT 86 has been conceived as an entirely driver-focused machine, designed to deliver the core qualities of the classic sports car experience. That means precise, instant response to the smallest throttle and steering inputs and the kind of performance that appeals to those for whom driving is a passion, not a necessity.” Welcome back, Toyota. n

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London

Surrey

Leeds

Silverstone

Northern Ireland

New York

Brisbane

luxury Showcase Indulge and immerse yourself in a stunning new exhibition for the New Year, The Luxury Lifestyle and Supercar Showcase proudly sponsored by St James’s Place Wealth Management

here are few exhibitions which are

as much of a mecca for those with an appreciation for the finer things in life as the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show. Among a glittering annual exhibition of more than 1,000 sailing and motor yachts are some of the most aspirational models currently available. Therefore it is fitting that this year the glamorous showcase has partnered with eminent brands from the worlds of motoring, travel, jewellery, finance, leisure and interiors to offer visitors a gateway to every aspect of luxury living. The Luxury Lifestyle and Supercar Showcase, proudly sponsored by St James’s Place Wealth Management, is intended to reflect the wider passions of the discerning audience and has been carefully organised by Exclusively Events. To this end, visitors can enjoy a fantastic live shopping experience as well as refreshments within the vibrant surroundings of the gallery.

The supercar area is the star of the show and Rolls-Royce is one brand which will occupy a prestigious site in the event space courtesy of P & A Wood, serving as a striking reminder of the finest British design. In a similar vein, Range Rover and Aston Martin will also hold centre stage, although it has to be said that the rare addition of the spectacular Lightning GT supercar and the Bugatti Veyron might be enough to enthral the petrol heads in attendance! MTECH Racing, the UK’s leading Ferrari GT Team, will also be showing one of the Ferrari 458 GT3’s from the British and European championships. The New Year scheduling for the showcase also makes it the ideal event for those looking to make home improvements in the form of very special new home products and features. The first might come by way of a beautiful installation from the London Swimming Pool Company, an industry leader renowned for the creativity seen in its residential projects.

CWpromotion

Alternatively, Clive Christian will be displaying its exquisite furniture designs which have earned the company royal appointment. William Beard Flooring Ltd will also be taking the opportunity to present its precious metal finish and designer ranges. Both beautiful groups of products will be shown alongside the popular existing range. Another stunning display comes in the form of renowned interior designer Steven Thorne who is collaborating with Home

Cinema Gallery for the first time to bring visitors the ultimate cinema experience. For those with an interest in high quality jewels, Elite Gems is bringing the expertise which has seen its Mayfair outpost become the ultimate destination for hand cut diamonds. Proving that the show supports enduring sophistication over impulse purchases, Elite Gems can offer comprehensive guidance on long-term investments on a discreet basis. A visit to the show might also prove the incentive one needs to adhere to New Year’s resolutions. The Alter-G is a high-tech piece of exercise equipment, widely considered to be the most advanced in the world today. It incorporates technology utilised by NASA in the training of its astronauts to bring about cardiovascular fitness without increased risk of injury. However, one could be forgiven for finding alternative sporting options at the stand occupied by Prestige Ticketing. The team is the foremost organiser of exciting corporate packages for the London 2012 Olympic Games and can guarantee the same exclusivity and attention-to-detail which pervades the whole of the show. n

Luxury Lifestyle & Supercar Showcase Date: 6-15 January 2012

Destination: ExCeL London

50+ Exhibitors Include: Range Rover Aston Martin Clive Christian Rolls-Royce Elite Gems St James’s Place Wealth Management Wayne Pollock Exclusive Luxury

Book tickets: www.londonboatshow.com

Enjoy a taste of

luxury at the

TULLETT PREBON LONDON BOAT SHOW The 2012 Tullett Prebon London Boat Show, taking place at ExCeL London from 6 to 15 January, is set to be another spectacular event for the UK to kick-start the year

ick out your dream boat from what is available at this year’s stunning showcase. Visitors can enjoy the luxury and glamour throughout the ten day show; walk among a wide variety of over 1,000 sail and power boats from Sunseeker’s £17.5 million, 40 metre motor yacht and Oyster Marine’s sleek 59ft Oyster 575 to the show’s largest boat inside, the elegant Princess 32M. While you are browsing the show, nestled in amongst the glitzy yachts in the South Hall is a brand new accompaniment to the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show; the Luxury Lifestyle and Supercar Showcase. The debuting expo is set in a stunning open-plan gallery showcasing some of the most premium, luxury brands on the market

such as the Mayfair Gallery, Wayne Pollock Travel offering bespoke holidays, Clive Christian and Range Rover. This will give visitors the chance to marvel at a range of highend products from supercars, home products, leisure and health to jewellery, watches, eyewear and finance – perfectly complementing the prestigious South Hall area of the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show. If it is relaxation you are looking for why not take time out in the Sunseeker Champagne bar and take advantage of the Piper-Heidsieck champagne being served while overlooking the stunning yachts and motor boats? There is plenty of shopping to be done at the show with marine-inspired fashion clothing, books and a multitude of the latest gadgets. Alternatively, sit back and watch

CWpromotion

Michelin-starred Chef Adam Gray who will be giving live, daily demonstrations in the Clarks Knowledge Box. The show is free for children and is the perfect way to get into the spirit of celebrating London’s undisputed status as the ‘city of sport in 2012’. With a whole host of activities on offer to spectate or take part in, the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show has more than enough to keep the most ardent boating and watersports enthusiast entertained. The 2012 Tullett Prebon London Boat Show is being held at ExCeL London which is just 20 minutes from London Waterloo and has over 2,500 car parking spaces on site. For the last four days of the show, you will also be able to enjoy the London Bike Show, Outdoors Show and the Active Travel Show at ExCeL London with your Tullett Prebon London Boat Show ticket. n Standard Entry Tickets to the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show cost £20 per day on the door or £16 if booked in advance. For an exclusive £20 Champagne Ticket, which entitles you to entry and a glass of Piper-Heidsieck champagne, visit www.londonboatshow.com or call the ticket hotline on 0871 230 7140 and quote code RW20. Offer is valid Monday 9 January to Friday 13 January 2012. Terms and conditions apply: see website for details.

jbor / Shutterstock.com

calibre luxury gadgets

FORM &

FUNCTION There surely is nowhere better to celebrate the launch of a product for which form and function are of utmost importance than Dubai. Annabel Harrison takes a closer look at the first handset from BlackBerry and Porsche Design

he Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, soaring 829.84 metres into the air. Its lifts, the fastest in the world, travel at a top speed of 40 miles per hour. It boasts the highest outdoor observation platform, the highest nightclub, the highest restaurant and the highest New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The list goes on. Dubai is the land where the Burj Khalifa holds centre court, its gleaming point at times spiking through the clouds, and the sister buildings, while nowhere near as tall, have evidently been designed with as much attention to their aesthetic appearance as their purpose. The Burj’s At.Mosphere bar offers dizzying views of the city and of the choreographed Dubai Fountain display 123 floors below. It is here that a select group of us were privileged enough to see first hand the product of 18 months of collaboration: the Porsche Design P’9981 BlackBerry smartphone. The handset, while obviously part of the BlackBerry family, has been crafted so as to stand out from the rest, comprising a forged stainless steel frame, hand-wrapped leather back, QWERTY keyboard and crystal clear touch display combination. “This collaboration stems from a shared belief that form equals function,” pointed out Todd Wood, senior

vice president for Industrial Design at Research In Motion. “The Porsche Design P’9981 is a truly modern luxury smartphone, where the timeless style of Porsche Design meets the unmatched mobile experience provided by BlackBerry.” Wood was softly spoken and clearly passionate about design, whether we were talking about BlackBerrys, boats, buildings or watches (he was sporting a smart black Panerai, if you’re interested). With previous experience as director of insight and innovation for Nokia Design, Wood was well placed to spearhead the project from the BlackBerry side. While discussing the origins of the partnership, he explained that “Porsche Design had a long history designing these beautiful technology and luxury products for customers, many of whom had the mobility to travel. I was very intrigued by the idea [of working on a smartphone], in that we consider ourselves a collaborative brand and we knew that we could actually do something different. We have our own line and our own design, but if we combined that with the ethos, the design philosophy and the history of Porsche Design, that would be very special.” For Porsche Design, the driving force (excuse the pun) is Roland Heiler and for him, the motto of Porsche founder Ferdinand Alexander Porsche neatly sums up Porsche Design’s approach: “If you analyse the function of an object, its form often becomes obvious.” Finding the balance between the two is crucial, as Heiler pointed out: “One can never overwhelm the other. You have to find a solution where both things are on the same level, otherwise you have something which looks nice but the functionality is not so great, or you have something that’s superb in engineering and works wonderfully but nobody likes it.” It’s clear that both companies are singing from the same hymn sheet when it comes to design philosophies, and that there was a great deal of enthusiasm on each side. Wood concededed that his brand doesn’t collaborate with more than a handful of others, as the projects become difficult to manage. The chosen ones must share common ground with BlackBerry, as Porsche Design does, and the project then “nourishes and exercises us as designers”. Heiler said his team was extremely interested in the project, forging a “great relationship and chemistry” with the BlackBerry designers: “We knew it would have to be a common effort, balanced as form and function have to be balanced, and it worked out really well.” In addition, “it’s a healthy thing not just to work within your own company, because you put yourself in a situation which keeps you up to date, fresh and challenged.” This was important for Wood too, who cited smartphones as products that have become statements of the times, “in terms of material or process capabilities, capacity and volumes, etc”. However, BlackBerry is a brand that doesn’t take inspiration “from things that we know are trends and blips. We don’t necessarily look at the fashion industry and try to get the hemline or the motif into the phone; that doesn’t work. We look at much longer wavelength things, like furniture, or items that are even more timeless and that are inspired by nature.” The Porsche Design P’9981 BlackBerry is clearly a phone for those who care equally about the form and function of the objects they use all day, every day and that neither one compromises the other. n

high risk. high reward. Take racing to a thrilling new level this Christmas with horse ownership from industry expert John Best. Own a quarter share in one of our magnificent colts, and experience the sheer exhilaration of being part of the race as you watch your very own horse gallop to the finish. With the potential for a very healthy return on your investment and a lifetime of adrenaline and adventure, it is the ideal gift this season - even if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just to yourself.

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sports

news

calibre

Return of the Six Nations Following the departure of team manager Martin Johnson in the wake of England’s farcical performance at last summer’s World Cup, the defending Six Nations champions will be hoping that this year’s tournament sees attention return to their performance on the pitch. In-form Wales, on the other hand, who narrowly missed out on a place in the World Cup final, having lost 9–8 to France in the semi-finals, will head into the tournament in buoyant spirits. The 13th series of the Six Nations Championship will kick off on the first weekend of February, with France playing host to Italy, Scotland facing England and Ireland taking on Wales. For the first time since they entered the tournament in 2000, Italy will play its home matches in Rome’s Stadio Olimpico, instead of the city’s Stadio Flaminio.

Home

marcokenya / Shutterstock.com

www.rbs6nations.com

RACING REWARDS While the stock market presents an obvious way to invest, it’s certainly not the most exhilarating nor, necessarily, the most fruitful. With racehorse ownership being more affordable than ever, horse racing is becoming an increasingly appealing way of investing your money. From sole ownership to partnerships, company ownership to club syndicates, there are numerous ways of investing in a horse. Although the risks may be high, the rewards can be immense, made even more exciting by the joy of watching your own racehorse cross the line first. Racehorse trainer John Best has built a

reputation for spotting relatively cheap young horses that go on to compete at the highest level. Kingsgate Native 20,000 guineas was purchased by John and went on to win two Group 1’s and prize money of more than £400,000 before being sold for a figure in excess of £1 million. John has made a name for himself by setting up syndicates that race with a view to returning a profit, enabling owners to re-invest and increase both their racing opportunities and the fun and excitement of competing at many of the major meetings. Visit www.johnbestracing.com and call 07889 362154 or 01622 880276 for more information

fstockfoto / Shutterstock.com

AWAY

Africa Cup of Nations The African equivalent of our European Championships, the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations will take place between 21 January and 12 February 2012. As host countries, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea automatically qualified for the tournament, which will be contested between 44 nations split into 11 groups. Having being paired in Group A alongside Senegal, Libya and Zambia, Henri Michel, head coach of Equatorial Guinea, knows his team face a tough challenge to progress. “Every game will be like attacking Everest,” said the Frenchman. “If we succeed it will be a major feat.” The last three Africa Cup of Nations have been won by Egypt.

Australian Open With a total prize pool of more than £16 million, and the men’s and women’s champions each taking home a record £1.4 million, 2012’s Australian Open will offer its competitors the highest prize money in the history of Grand Slam tennis. Having ended last year on a high by winning the ATP World Tour Finals title at The O2, Federer will head to Melbourne on a string of notable victories. Elsewhere, Australia’s Sam Stosur will be looking to delight home fans by building on her success at the 2011 US Open, where she beat Serena Williams on home turf. 16 - 29 January 2012 www.australianopen.com

Sporting Soundbite

There is nobody who understands elite rugby at the very top.

Sir Clive Woodward’s damning verdict of the Rugby Football Union

CHEN WEI SENG / Shutterstock.com

It’s all about

the Money

Lee Brooks takes a look at how sport has transformed itself from a profession which once sat alongside an ordinary day job to a multi-billion pound industry

port is a world of untold riches. From cricketer Kevin Pietersen earning £1 million for just 12 weeks work with the Royal Challengers in the Indian Premier League and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney earning £250,000 a week to Etihad Airways signing a ground-breaking ten year sponsorship deal with Manchester City for a reported £400 million, the potential to earn, and indeed spend, money is huge.

Of course, six-figure weekly salaries, multi-million pound sponsorship deals and lottery jackpot-sized prize funds for tournament victories haven’t always been the norm. As recently as the 1970s and 80s, leading footballers and rugby players would make their money from outside the sport and play the game as a second job. Welshman JPR Williams, for example, was an orthopaedic surgeon by day and legendary rugby full back by weekend.

sports

Over the last 30 years, however, we’ve seen more money come into sport as big businesses have seen how they can use it to boost their companies’ growth through advertising. “Large companies are finding sport to be cost effective in communicating with a large audience,” said Steve Madincea, founder and group managing director of PRISM, a global sports PR and sponsorship agency which works with brands such as Red Bull Racing F1 team and Infiniti, the Champions League and Ford, and Ferrari and Shell, among others. “We’ve seen a fragmentation of media, [with] so many TV channels and more people going online. Sport is one place where you can get a global audience.” With events now signing up sponsors, organisers are able to offer better quality venues and healthier prize funds, which in turn attract bigger name athletes. This increases the profile of the tournament, which then attracts paying fans and also helps to drive up the price of TV rights fees. Each element feeds the other to force the figures up year-on-year. Using the last 30 years as a barometer once more, we’ve also seen a massive change in the way audiences view sport. When the number of TV channels was limited to just a handful, the amount of sports coverage available then pales into insignificance when you consider the dedicated sports channels in the form of Sky Sports and ESPN and the fact that the BBC has upped its scope of coverage through the use of the Red Button interactive service. This competition has driven fees up (Sky spent £1.62 billion on TV rights when they negotiated fees in 2009), regardless of the recent economic downturn, in order to supply another much-needed source of revenue to the venues as well as to teams who compete (Premier League clubs shared £346 million in 1995, according to business analysts Deloitte. That figure rose to a mind-boggling £1.99 billion in 2009). In Formula 1, for example, under the terms of the socalled Concorde Agreement, ten of the top 12 teams in the constructors’ standings at the end of the season share 50 per cent of the sport’s profits from sources such as TV rights and track advertising. There’s also good money to be made in appearance fees: the highest prize money for a world title bout was paid out in 2007 when Mexican boxer Oscar De La Hoya made a staggering £36 million for fighting Floyd Mayweather Jnr – and the Mexican didn’t even win, losing on a split decision. Aside from sponsoring an event like the Champions League or the Super Bowl, large companies have found it incredibly beneficial to recruit athletes as ambassadors to endorse their products. Multiple Olympic gold medallist Chris Hoy hit our screens after Beijing’s Games, promoting Kelloggs cereal Bran Flakes, McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton and US Open champion Rory McIlroy are the faces of bank Santander and of course the world’s most famous golfer Tiger Woods has been the face of grooming company Gillette (before he was dropped after a string of affairs were exposed), alongside former Arsenal footballer Thierry Henry and tennis legend Roger Federer. However, while athletes continue to endorse products to

calibre

boost their income, they’ve become much choosier, according to Madincea. “If we go past the obvious money thing, athletes today are more particular about the brands that they are associated with,” said Madincea. “Now athletes are thinking: ‘What can these brands do for me? Can they help me raise my profile? Can they help me position myself as a more everyday type person?’ For the latter, I’m thinking of McLaren F1 driver Jenson Button and the Head & Shoulders deal as an example. “There is no doubt that in most negotiations I’ve been involved in over the last couple of years, people are asking about the ‘Tiger Woods clause’, which is ironic mainly because that was the man everybody wanted to sponsor. But let’s not forget that Nike made a tremendous amount of money out of Woods, and still do, while Woods obviously made a lot of money out of the deal, too.” Despite losing five major endorsements in the last two years, Woods is still big business. He retains his Nike and EA Sports contracts and has replaced Tag Heuer with another luxury watch brand: Rolex. According to Sports Illustrated’s 2011 Fortunate 50 list, he earned £1.46 million in salary and winnings and approximately £38.2 million in endorsements and appearance fees, making him the top-earning athlete in the world. Excluding Americans, Federer was the most financially successful athlete in 2011, bringing in £33.6 million, with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao second on £34.1 million, Ferrari F1 driver Fernando Alonso third (£28.6 million), Barcelona football wizard Lionel Messi fourth (£27.9 million) and Real Madrid midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo fifth (£24.7 million). The best placed Brit was Rooney, who endorses Nike and EA Sports, on £18.6 million and former Manchester United midfielder David Beckham just behind, on £17 million. When it comes to overall wealth, former Blackburn player and Wigan Athletic FC owner Dave Whelan is currently the richest sportsman in Britain (according to The Sunday Times Rich List) with a net worth of £190 million. Beckham, who is coming to the end of a £128 million, five-year deal with Major League Soccer team LA Galaxy, is next up, with a net worth of £135 million. It’s no surprise that with figures like this, millions of children across the world aspire to pursue a career in sport, but it’s worth noting that for many, sport isn’t the pot of gold people perceive it to be. During the Pakistan cricket scandal court case, it emerged that some players on a central contract earn just £1,300 per month, which equates to about the same as the UK average wage of £26,470. And while still substantial, an average football player in the Championship, one level below the Premier League, earns £275,000 a year – a figure which is similar to some top players’ weekly income. However, it remains true that there is money in sport – and plenty of it. Big businesses are finding sponsorship to be successful and cost effective and competition between TV sports channels is as big as ever, as is the desire of teams and athletes to win in order to attract fans, sponsors and TV rights financing. As such, the relationship between sport and money is only set to get stronger. n

Premier League clubs shared £346 million in 1995, according to Deloitte. That figure rose to a mindboggling £1.99 billion in 2009

interview ariadne capital human resources bonus law finance INVESTing in shares ..................................

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

Courtesy of the U.S. federal government

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

the Greatest Investor

Warren Buffett’s assets fell by $25 billion between 2008 and 2009, a loss that saw him drop down to second place on Forbes’ Rich List. Take inspiration from the world’s most successful investor

e lives in the same five-bedroom house that he bought in 1957, pays himself a base salary of around $100,000 a year and devotes 12 hours a week to playing bridge. Not quite the lifestyle you’d expect. Then again, Warren Buffett isn’t your average Wall Street investor. Buffett was just 14 when he filed his first tax return and two years later, he stood at the helm of a mini-empire of pinball machines that he had placed in neighbourhood barber shops. By the time he left college, having invested in the New York

Stock Exchange as well as in a local farm, he had amassed savings worth $90,000 in today’s money. Blessed with an ability to identify undervalued companies, with shares so inexpensive they posed little risk as an investment, Buffett set forth on a career that would see him become a millionaire by 1962 and a billionaire before the age of 60. Berkshire Hathaway, the congolomerate for which Buffett acts as President, Chairman and CEO, was in 2000 the eighth largest public company on the planet. Eight years later, Buffett himself, whose career began selling Coca-Cola door to door, became the world’s wealthiest individual. n

comment interview

A Ariadne is for

“Ariadne was a Greek goddess, it’s a feminine name and alphabetically it’s up there at the top of the list. We like to be at the top.” Annabel Harrison meets Julie Meyer, the impressive, articulate CEO of Ariadne Capital who most certainly knows her stuff

aving graduated with a degree in Humanities and English Literature from Valparaiso University in 1988, Meyer left the US for Paris and London. Initially advising technology firms and backing entrepreneurs in Paris and then London, Meyer quickly learnt her trade and ten years later founded First Tuesday, the network of entrepreneurs which many credit for igniting the internet generation in Europe, and which was sold in 2000 for approximately £33 million in cash and shares. Entrepreneur, adviser and investor, Meyer has since been named one of INSEAD’s Top 50 Alumni, the World Economic Forum’s Global Leader of Tomorrow, one of TIME Magazine’s Digital 50 and one of the Top 30 Most Influential Women in Europe. She is also one of the Online Dragons in the BBC’s Dragon’s Den Online. In 2000, Meyer founded City-based Ariadne Capital, a specialist technology investment and advisory firm; she and her team back entrepreneurs in the media, mobile internet and communications, financial services, CleanTech and internet sectors. What factors led to your decision to found Ariadne? I sold First Tuesday on 20 July 2000 and after I took a trip to India and to South Africa, I thought, “I’ve got to get out there and do something again”. I had a vision of creating a people network and a support system that would lead to a unique ability to invest, and which would create the gold standard in financing entrepreneurship. In the same way, a lot of people could have said about First Tuesday that it was a case of “the right place at the right time” and riding a big wave... Criss-crossing Europe with First Tuesday, I did meet amazing entrepreneurs but the venture community, the financiers of entrepreneurship, would say things like, “Julie, venture capital as an asset class in Europe has never worked and we don’t have a high enough quality of entrepreneurs”. It was like the pot calling the kettle black, because the quality of entrepreneurs was world class but the financing was not. There was an opportunity to create that gold standard; the market was still inefficient, but I could be part of driving the efficiency in the market for this way of financing entrepreneurship. In the first couple of years, it’s important just to be out there in the market: I needed to set up a store front and find a team of analysts to work with me and I needed to be engaged with entrepreneurs, while learning. I believe in that process of iteration and what good entrepreneurs must learn is that

things are not perfect: you can’t be comfortable with shoddy products, but you have to get out there in the market. Why do entrepreneurs choose to work with Ariadne? Entrepreneurs know that we are on their side; we stand shoulder to shoulder with them and do not let go when things get difficult. There might be a firestorm of publicity, there might be investors who abandon them, but we will be their confidante and we will stick with them once we engage. We know how digital business models are affecting industries and we work with entrepreneurs that want to achieve explosive growth in these industries. What do you find the most fast-moving and challenging sector of the media industry? I think we’re going to work through this debt in Europe and the western world over the next five years and then, already you can see it happening, that the companies that we’re building are going to be part of a new system of which individual, businesses, governments and corporates are all a part. It’s going to be something different from what we’ve experienced since World War II, this kind of notion of a Welfare State with big businesses in the lead; the new model is going to be led by entrepreneurs, because they have the most credibility and are driving the top line revenue. The individual capitalists, the guys under 30, don’t think that they work for anyone anymore, even the ones who work for me. There’s a concept of the individual as the unit of trade and capitalism, which I think is really valuable, because I was that way when I was 23 years old. Can you tell me about the growth of your company and its place in the wider market? We’ve had three different phases and we’re in our third. Today we have three parts of the business: a seed digital fund; a corporate finance advisory, investing in the start-ups; and Entrepeneur Country. We have six directors, 15 people in total, and a very clear five-year plan, along with goals for each of the three businesses. We started off as a private investor network, entrepreneurs backing entrepreneurs, and I think we’re the first people to do that. The recession made the team tighter: when you’re dealing with a lot of start-ups, you can’t help but feel the shock waves. If we have, perhaps, ten active mandates or active portfolio relationships at any one time, in addition to running three

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businesses ourselves, that’s a lot of stress and work, but this doesn’t come as a surprise. In 2009 I made some bets about the firm, which have paid off quite handsomely; bringing on people and growing as opposed to reducing. What do you enjoy most about your role? I like winning. It’s a very un-British thing to say, but I like to claim victory and to work hard to get to a point where I can look back and say, “I did that!” or “that worked!” If it doesn’t work, I don’t beat myself up. I just say, “What can I learn?” I’m very competitive with myself. As a kid, if I got an A- or B+, my mum would say: “That’s very good, but you know you can get an A”. I like the culture that we’ve created in the firm; it’s supportive and constructive around growing and achieving. It can be very political and difficult to talk about some bits of the work that aren’t working, but I think we’re winning more than we’re losing. In backing entrepreneurs, what key qualities do you need to have to succeed? You have to have a lot of empathy, to be able to put yourself in the shoes of the entrepreneur and to be nonjudgmental, [always remembering] it could be me over there with the bank pulling my overdraft. Alastair Lukies at Monitise, one of my favourite entrepreneurs, said: “You can’t build an ecosystem without humility.” At the same time, you have to have a lot of confidence to present to the world your vision. You also have to work incredibly hard and be very market-focused; gather information, process it in a fairly dispassionate way, but remain a conceptual thinker. Banks are backward-looking by definition because they’re analysing data, but entrepreneurs are saying: “I don’t know why, but I have a gut feeling that that market is going to open up, or that the convergence between these two things is going to take off.” It takes a lot of intuition and consideration about how many times has that person been right before with their gut instinct. It’s a market feel as opposed to imposing numbers on something. Start-ups must keep the operating model of the firm very, very low; you’re experimenting with different elements of the product and you have to do that at a low cost. Who have been your role models in business throughout your career? I was lucky to work for Tom Teichman – my very first boss in this country. He’s now running SPARK Ventures. I learnt a lot from him, in terms of how to build an advisory firm and to grow that into an investment firm, so I definitely think I’ve taken a page out of his playbook. I worked for a great woman when I was 26 years old who helped Steve Jobs to launch the Macintosh, Andy Cunningham... I’ve learnt along the way from a lot of people. I’m a big stealer of ideas and I love to read on the weekends; I buy 20 magazines and I flip through. I love absorbing information. You came to Europe when you were 21; have you stayed in Europe permanently since? There was a three-year period when I worked in Boston for Cunningham Communications, but I figured out that I wanted to go to INSEAD at 23 years old... I don’t quite know why, except I showed up at an open day, as an

English Literature major, thinking that business people might look down on that, but then I met some of them and I thought: “Wow, these are really interesting people who engage with the world”. At INSEAD it really changed my model of what business school was because it was so different [from what I expected]. What do you think of London as a business and finance centre of the world? It’s a global city. I was reading The Spectator over the weekend and Fraser Nelson said: ‘The Commonwealth is much more a better model than the eurozone”. I think what’s always attracted me is that you have the eurozone, Europe, Commonwealth and North America; London, even more than the UK, has a sphere of influence which is amazing. Where else [does]? You could love New York or you could love Shanghai or Hong Kong, but there’s no other city in the world that has that same influence and gravitas as London, so I feel like I’m in the centre of the world here. In terms of personal finance, what do you think the most important rule to live by is? Well, first of all, stating the obvious, debt destroys. Get yourself out of debt and don’t be under any illusions. For anybody who’s 25, starting out, force yourself to live within your means. The things that we are seeing at a eurozone level also apply at national, company, household and individual levels; if you’re spending money that you don’t have, it’s a oneway ticket to going out of business and being bankrupt. Once you start to have a national surplus, a personal surplus, a household surplus, a company surplus and so forth, put together a plan and make some goals for yourself. It has that double effect of providing discipline and rigour in your life, but also a feeling of being in control. There are obviously things that are outside of your control, but work on the feeling of living within your means and achieving goals with your personal finance. What’s also important is being able to differentiate between good spending and bad spending. What I see with friends and colleagues is that some have almost tricked themselves into thinking that they are wealthier than they are; if they actually did balance sheets themselves, they’d be shocked. We have a company called Money Dashboard, which helps you to analyse which decision to make: should I pay off my mortgage first or should I pay off my credit cards? Should I put the money into the retirement fund now? It’s a fascinating exercise to go through. n

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How Best to Invest Martin Bamford addresses the trials and tribulations of investment in 2011 and suggests how we can avoid some of the mistakes made last year Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been an incredibly difficult year both for investments and investors. Global investment markets have had plenty to be nervous about and the lingering eurozone debt crisis, combined with an economic slowdown, has been enough to give investors a regular case of the jitters. Closer to home, it has been a challenging year for many households; low interest rates and high price inflation have placed a squeeze on incomes for those who rely on their savings, and unemployment, or the fear of unemployment, has been a significant concern for many, especially those in the public sector. The economic outlook for the next 12 months continues to look rather bleak. What we are experiencing now is the hangover from the global financial crisis and the impact of this has been far more significant than was predicted at the time. Against this changeable economic backdrop, investors have important decisions to make this year. Pension funds and investment portfolios need to be invested appropriately in order to meet longer term financial goals, without causing sleepless nights due to market volatility. When we start working with new investors, we often see them making the same investment mistakes; in understanding these, we can better help investors to avoid them in the future. A mistake we often see is investors trying to time their entry to and exit from investment markets. When markets are so volatile, the temptation to try this is obvious: there are times when the market feels like good value and times when it looks like investors should sell in order to realise their profits. However, the trouble with this is that it is so easy to get it wrong. Nobody has a crystal ball, so accurately and consistently timing market movements is impossible. Getting out of the markets often means missing the days of good returns that tend to happen shortly after markets fall in value. By trying to time the stock markets, you stand a better

than equal chance of selling when prices are low and buying when prices are high. Another mistake we see is investors taking unnecessary risks with their money. In order to chase the possibility of high returns, you need to expose your capital to risk. This is sometimes the right thing to do but all too often it is unnecessary. By linking your investment decisions to your financial planning goals, it is often possible to reduce the level of risk you are taking with your money and often we find that even though investors are prepared to take risk, they simply donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to do so to meet their objectives. A crucial mistake that became especially prevalent last year was overexposure to commodities. With the price of gold appearing to rise continually throughout the year, and other investments so volatile, the attraction of precious metals is rather obvious but, while gold has enjoyed a strong bull run, it remains an incredibly risky investment asset class. Many investors already have exposure to commodities due to the inclusion of mining stocks in the FTSE 100 index. There is a big risk of overexposure and buying into an investment bubble when trying to invest directly in gold assets. Perhaps the biggest error investors make is to invest in things they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand, although this is unsurprising, given the complexity of many investments. A golden rule to remember is only to invest in assets you fully comprehend. The highest profile investment failures of recent years have mainly involved complex, opaque and illiquid investment products understood by few, often including those who were selling them. While this year is likely to be tough for the economy and investment markets, understanding and avoiding some of these common investment mistakes will provide investors with a fighting chance of success. n

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

personal finance

Uncertain Times David Kuo explains why investing in shares should be part of long term financial plans, even in times of economic uncertainty

We live in uncertain times, but we always have done. Times were uncertain when, as a young boy, I watched as China go through its Cultural Revolution. Times were equally uncertain during the Vietnam War, the Falklands War, The Bay of Pigs Invasion, the invasion of Kuwait and episodes of the Millennium Bug, SARS, swine and bird flu. Now we have another disaster on the horizon, in the shape of the eurozone. My response to that? Ignore it. We should recognise how incompetent politicians can be but we’ve always known that. What we must bear in mind is that they are governed by self-interest and, at the risk of sounding controversial, so should we be. We need to remain focused on our financial objectives and ensure we have enough money put away for whatever we’re saving for; perhaps our children’s university education or money for retirement. It would be easy to get caught up in arguments over the rights and wrongs of Quantitative Easing, bond ratings agencies, Credit Default Swaps and the merits or drawbacks of a technocratic leader. However, the harsh reality is that none of this will help us towards our financial objectives. We need to continue to invest because investing in shares is one of the best ways to generate inflation-beating returns in the long term. The last decade has been awful for stock market investors but that is only true for those who bought shares at the top of the market in 1999 and never returned to it. Most of us don’t invest like that. We keep adding money to the market as and when we are able to do so. So while the money you invested in the FTSE 100 in 1999 is in the red, any money you invested

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in 2003 will be in the black – up some 60 per cent. If you invested in the summer of 2010, when the FTSE was at 4,800 points, your investment would be up around ten per cent. As such, each year, your investments will deliver a different return, sometimes positive and sometimes negative. Over the decades, though, you should do well overall, provided you keep adding money into the market. Some will tell you it’s a mistake to buy shares and hold them for the long term through thick and thin, pointing out that we could be holding on to investments that are severely overpriced and that it would be better to reinvest the money elsewhere. But most of us are not expert stock market analysts: even if you believe a share is overvalued, there is no guarantee that the market will agree with you. In fact, some of the best investors in the world have made money by buying shares that they have held for a very long time. Warren Buffett, for example, has seen his investment in Coca-Cola increase seven-fold since the late 1980s. There is a lesson there for all of us. As investors, we should be focused on the long term, rather than think of investing as taking a punt on a share. This means buying shares in businesses that you understand and believe in: if you think a share may have raced ahead of itself, then sell some of it and move the money into another investment that may have a more compelling story to tell; but if you have faith in the business, then the best thing to do is to hang onto it. That’s because a share is not just for Christmas – you are a part owner in the business and it should be for the long term. n

Dr David Kuo is director at popular financial website The Motley Fool www.Fool.co.uk

comment human resources

Bonus or Bust Clare Murray spells out the pitfalls to avoid during the traditional bonus season bonus that is about to fall due, provided this is done in accordance with the contract. In these circumstances the contractual bonus wording should always be double-checked. Recent press reports also suggest that banks may be seeking to rely on bonus clawback provisions: this is likely to be an area to watch for the future.

Most bonuses will have been declared by the end of December, but by all accounts, this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bonus season will not be a time for cheer; survey results reported in the press predict that London bank bonus pools for 2011 are shrinking amid the EU crisis and general economic malaise. Current headlines also warn of imminent large-scale redundancies in the financial services sector and, as with all bonus arrangements, a question frequently arises, concerning what happens with regard to redundancy, dismissal or resignation. Is the bonus forfeited or is a pro-rated bonus payable? Case law has established the principle that an employer can, in certain circumstances, terminate an employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s employment immediately before a bonus is to be awarded and avoid paying an annual bonus otherwise due. While there is an obligation on an employer not to exercise their discretion in relation to a bonus payment in an irrational or perverse way, there is nothing to stop an employer from dismissing and not paying the employee a

Following changes introduced by the credit crisis, there are now rules stipulating that a proportion of bonuses must be awarded in shares and that these must be deferred, whilst guaranteed bonuses can only be awarded for a period of one year. In the context of bonuses, a distinction must be made between discretionary and guaranteed payments: the former tend to be a reward for performance as well as an incentive for future performance, while the latter can include signing on bonuses or retention bonuses, and are now more regulated within the financial services sector. For most bankers, their annual bonus will be discretionary and in most cases, there is little room to challenge the level of the bonus awarded, unless an employee can assert that no reasonable employer would have exercised the discretion in that way, i.e. the decision is irrational and perverse. In the current economic climate, a challenge on those grounds will be very difficult indeed, if not impossible. A bonus award can, however, be challenged if there are discrimination issues at play; for example, a female banker receiving a lower bonus award than her male colleagues in cases where their performance is comparable. A bonus award could also be subject to challenge in circumstances where it is alleged to have been reduced in response to the employee blowing the whistle on wrongdoing inside the bank. However, in general terms, it has become fairly difficult for senior executives in the financial services industry to challenge a lower-than-expected bonus. This year will be no exception and bankers will be left with very little room to manoeuvre in the event the bonus pools are quite as low current predictions suggest or there are redundancies before the payment date. As healthy bank bonuses are often viewed as a barometer of how well the economy is doing, this is not good news for anybody. n

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

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hen a royal whisky brand meets an ancient jeweller, the perfect blend has been created. Since its origin in 1953, Royal Salute’s prestigious Scotch whisky range has remained the pinnacle of its kind. Tribute to Honour, the latest creation by expert whisky-maker Colin Scott, pays homage to the oldest crown jewels of the British Isles, the Honours of Scotland, with Scott’s rarest blend encased in just 21 bejewelled bottles. Although some might find it garish to garnish a whisky bottle with diamonds, the statement

container is fitting for such an occasion. The exquisite cask, created by the world’s oldest jeweller to royalty, Garrard, has been specially hand-cast in black porcelain with precisely 413 white and black diamonds. Some of these precious jewels are arranged to outline the Sword of State, which remains one of the oldest Crown Jewels in the British Isles. 22 carats of gemstones adorn the decorative collar and visage and the golden lions are symbols of valour and patriotism. n Each flagon of the Royal Salute Tribute to Honour is priced at approximately £128,000

The

Finer Things in life

Art for Art’s Sake It seems ironic that when a recession hits, there is a slump in essential spending yet a rise in the sales of luxuries like fine art. In the past turbulent year, some buyers have paid astonishingly large figures for fine art but not on a mere whim: the upper end of the art market, and its rare pieces in particular, have been known to stand the test of time, seen as safe harbours during financial storms. When people feel threatened, it is also natural to search for sources of comfort and pleasure and the ownership of fine art provides that in spades, especially when compared to those visually dull pieces of paper known as stocks and shares. The start of a year demands a backwards glance at events that rocked the world and for investors in art there were plenty of these to focus on, especially at the international salerooms. Amongst the notable successes at Christie’s were After the Flood: the exit of Animals from the Ark (1867) by Filippo Palizzi (£265,250 achieved; estimate £150,000 £200,000) and Liebesfrühling by Franz von Stuck (£361,250 achieved; estimate £150,000 - £250,000) which set new world auction records for the artists. The same auction saw a surge in demand for 19th century masters, exemplified by Pommes Rouges by Gustave Courbet (which shot to a hammer price of £409,250 over its estimate of £40,000 - 60,000). The Battle between Carnival and Lent by Pieter Brueghel II set a new world auction record (£6.8 million achieved; estimate £3.5 - £4.5 million) but that seems lowly compared to the record set for a George Stubbs painting: Gimcrack

on Newmarket Heath, with a trainer, a jockey and a stable lad had a huge estimate of £20 - 30 million and sold for £22.4 million. Over in its Paris venue, Christie’s confirmed a serious revival in enthusiasm for medieval works of art when a small, carved ivory group of a Madonna and child enthroned (approximately 15 inches) sold for £5.4 million after frenzied bidding propelled it way above its estimate of £840,000 - £1.6 million. Paintings by L.S. Lowry have been highly sought after throughout the past decade with buyers prepared to pay up to £2 million to get their hands on one. However, The Football Match and a scene rarely painted by the artist, Piccadilly Circus, demanded record-breaking fees of £5.6 million each at Christie’s. Reflecting on the success of Christie’s sales in 2011, departmental head Philip Harley remarked that there was an “insatiable appetite for the best 20th century British and Irish art”, which could prove useful in deciding on 2012 investments. At Bonhams it has been an historic year for Asian Art. In Hong Kong a three inch high miniature Chinese snuff bottle from the Emperor Qianlong period (1736-1795) caused huge excitement among bidders and left the art world reeling as the hammer descended finally on a phone bid of £2 million, five times its estimate. A sale of Japanese art at Bonhams in London produced a world record for an 18th century ‘netsuke’ or miniature carving (a shishi or lion dog), realizing £265,250. Records were smashed in the South African Art sale too, notably Irma Stern’s Arab Priest which sold for £3,044,000 - a world record for any South African artwork and for the artist. Russian Art claimed its fair share of the headlines too with Vasili Polenov’s He that is without Sin selling for £4.07 million. Days before Christmas, the late Dame Elizabeth Taylor’s jewels added some glittering sparkle to the art world. By day two of Christie’s four day sale, the event had already been pushed into the record books as bidders around the globe clung to phone lines in desperate attempts to secure a piece of the Hollywood legend. Many succeeded, ensuring that even at its halfway stage, it had become the most valuable jewellery sale in auction history. Proof, indeed, that diamonds really are a girl’s, and an investor’s, best friend.

La Peregrina, a natural pearl, diamond ruby and cultured pearl necklace by Cartier Christie’s Images Ltd. 2011

Pieter Brueghel II, The Battle between Carnival and Lent, Christie’s Images Ltd. 2011

Carol Cordrey looks back at investments that rocked the art world in 2011 and predicts which countries are offering the best art to buy in during 2012, while Richard Brierley, head of fine wine at Vanquish Wine Ltd, spells out the top ten rules of wine investment

art & wine

connoisseur

Drink and Be Merry In running a bespoke and discreet service to private clients, connoisseurs and investors in the global market for fine and rare wines, Richard Brierley is well-placed to spell out the ten fundamental rules of wine investment. 1.Expertise Expert guidance allows a potential investor to make careful acquisitions by understanding the following drivers of market value. 2. Property (château/brand) The production of Bordeaux châteaux from the best vineyards are the most oft-traded stocks of fine and rare wines. Complement this strategy with the best producers from other regions that have a track record of increasing in value. Certain brands have also been able to expand their identity beyond one wine or one area of production; for example, Domaines Barons de Rothschild. 3. Vintage Each year’s weather produces varying quality of wines at a regional and individual property level. Invest in wines from the best vintages in each of the properties chosen. Some lesser vintages trade at a significant discount to perceived quality; they present exceptional value to investors as ‘property’ over-rides the vintage consideration and they are often less volatile in price. 4. Demand Demand for fine wine is global and is ultimately driven by consumption. An advisor who touches markets on a daily basis will see demand instantly and adjust investment strategy to such demand. Emerging markets are increasing demand for younger vintages and this has steepened the value curve of investment grade wines away from the traditional ten year timeline. 5. Value A balanced portfolio includes wines which have an underlying value proposition. While the very best wines have seen significant increase in price, many markets are turning to a second tier of value wines that hold value in

periods of price de-stabilization and grow more slowly but more predictably in value over the long term. 6. Track record Invest in the best wines of the top 20 châteaux, based on long term performance and investment track record. 7. Provenance The history of a wine’s ownership and storage conditions plays a fundamental role in its long-term value. Purchase wine from an approved group of suppliers and work closely with them to ship and store wine in the best possible conditions of humidity and temperature. 8. Scarcity The vineyard land of the best regions is of a finite size and boundary changes are rare. Many investment grade wines are produced on a very small scale and the supply is immediately insufficient for global demand. A significant increase in consumption leads to short-term shortages and long-term scarcity; only by being in the market every day and studying consumption and demand closely can one truly understand scarcity, as the market is not a transparent one. 9. Events There are a number of market events that can change the price of wines in a portfolio. These include ratings by influential critics and the release of new vintages to the market, as well as influential auctions or public tastings that can serve to effect the market perception of a given wine or vintage. When events of this nature arise, swift access to the market is needed to take profit from these events that can have either short-term or long-term effects on the price of individual wines. 10. Advice Whilst technology has made comparative price information available to any collector seeking to acquire investment grade wines, the research behind the price is a key factor that will protect your portfolio long term. Accurate information and candid advice on a timely basis should lead to a successful investment. n

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ocean view homes are being developed on the island’s most stunning enclave, each equipped with solar panels and natural ventilation. Plans to build a luxury spa, 40 berth marina and a small airstrip to accommodate private planes and helicopters are also in the pipeline. In keeping with the island’s eco-conscious ethos, 75 per cent of the landscape will remain undeveloped and a percentage of all property sales will go towards stewardship projects. www.pearlisland.com

Booking is now open for the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay yoga retreat, coming to the beautiful Six Senses Spa this spring. Led by renowned practitioner and yoga teacher Julien Balmer, over six days guests will be initiated in the art of traditional Hatha Yoga through daily sessions and sun salutations designed to improved core strength and suppleness. Meditation classes and spiritual cinema viewings, combined with a signature massage and access to the sauna, steam bath, indoor pool and the tempting aquamarine tides of the Turkish Aegean Sea, complete the holistic wellbeing package. www.kempinski.com

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Caribbean Odyssey Like the face that launched a thousand ships, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Helen of the West Indiesâ&#x20AC;? has captivated visitors for centuries, its natural beauty so stunning that wars have been fought to lay claim to it. Olivia Sharpe visits Jade Mountain, camouflaged on the coast of St Lucia, and deems it the pinnacle of romantic destinations

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efore visiting St Lucia, it had always seemed the baby sister of the other Caribbean islands, not quite up for comparison, with Barbados in particular. However, after visiting the island in November, I realised that this certainly isn’t the case. St Lucia has become a destination hotspot, with thousands of tourists disembarking on its shores every year, and it’s not hard to see why. A melting pot of cultures and an unspoiled landscape of palm-fringed beaches and rainforest are bound to impress even the most travelled individuals. To ensure the holiday of a lifetime, Jade Mountain has everything and more to offer. Rising magnificently above the 600-acre Anse Chastanet beachfront resort, it is situated in Soufriere, just 18 miles from Hewanorra International Airport. Pre-arrival concierge services can sort out any individual requirements; this includes airport transfers by car, or a helicopter for the more flamboyant. Having opted for the modest car arrival, I was impressed by the unusual sight of a man-made, concrete mountain. Innovative architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy has chosen to celebrate his love of St Lucia’s scenic beauty by seamlessly incorporating his design into the natural landscape using indigenous materials, creating “a cornucopia of organic architecture”. My friend and I were led to our personal sanctuaries by our “Major Domo”, whose attention to detail throughout our stay was faultless. Troubetzkoy has purposefully rid guests of out-dated hotel corridors and replaced them with a suspended sky bridge so that you feel as though you are floating on air. As I entered my suite, I was taken aback by the sweeping open space whereby bedroom, living area, infinity pool and the vast tropical waters have been combined in order to create the sense of sleeping in harmony with nature. The room’s décor further brings the outside world in, with hardwood floors, wicker chairs and a palette of earthy hues, not to mention a non-existent fourth wall. The room was equipped with four-poster beds, ‘his and hers’ sinks and a two-person Jacuzzi bath, complete with ‘in tub’ mood lighting. However, Jade Mountain has purposefully chosen not to provide radio or television, and there is only limited phone or internet access – so be warned, Smartphone junkies. The rooms’ ratings have been tiered into five packages: Sky, Star, Moon, Sun, and Galaxy, according to the room’s position and size. Guests who opt for the top-rated Galaxy sanctuaries will experience the most commanding panoramic views, plus the biggest square footage. If you’re looking for a truly relaxing experience, head straight to Kai en Ciel, Jade Mountain’s own luxury boutique spa. I decided to pamper myself with the deluxe spa manicure; this involves your hand being swathed in a paraffin wrap for ten minutes while you receive a neck and scalp massage to help to alleviate stress. Although a strange sensation, it was without a doubt a first-rate manicure, ensuring that my nails didn’t chip for the rest of the holiday. Along with the many pampering experiences on offer, we could also enjoy a variety of facilities available at sister resort, Anse Chastanet, to ensure that we never got bored,

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including water sports, tennis, and mountain biking. Jade Mountain also has its very own Cybex Fitness Studio where complimentary fitness options and yoga classes are provided, as well as privately arranged lessons (if you don’t fancy bending and stretching in front of strangers). After enjoying an indulgent cocktail on the Celestial Terrace overlooking the breathtaking St Lucian sunset every evening, my taste buds were stimulated by local produce and tropical flavours created by celebrated Head Chef, Allen Susser. My favourites on the menu included the St Lucian kingfish, which was cooked beautifully medium rare, and the divine lobster-crusted snapper served with pesto-roasted garden vegetables and Bok Choy. If you want to try a bit of everything, opt for the special tasting menu. Children under 15 aren’t allowed to stay at the resort and so things like evening meals and pool time can be enjoyed without the disruption of young ones enjoying themselves at high volume levels. However, if you desire an even more intimate setting, choose to dine in your own private sanctuary, where you can have a one-hour cooking demonstration or the gourmet dishes prepared in front of you by the chef. Jade Mountain and Anse Chastanet have been specially designed to encompass everything you could possibly require but if, like me, you find that such idleness on holiday should only be sought as a reward from exertion, venture outside the resort and experience a wealth of activities that the island has to offer to keep your guilt at bay. Be sure to pack your hiking boots as St Lucia’s mountainous region provides walker enthusiasts with great trails up the Pitons, two volcanic plugs which form the island’s most famous landmark. Jade Mountain organises special tours up Gros Piton Mountain so all you have to do is worry about actually climbing it. Thrillseekers looking for adventure but without sore feet can experience St Lucia’s beauty with a ride on a worldclass zipline course, which ensures exposure to the most spectacular views. If hiking or flying through the air at top speed seems a little bit too strenuous, visit the tropical Mamiku Gardens, located on the east coast, or for the ultimate pampering experience, don’t miss a trip to the sulphur springs located in the only “drive-in” volcano in the world, another local attraction in close proximity to Jade Mountain. With the best time to go from this month until April, when London’s weather is at its most dreary, book now for an unforgettable, romantic experience. n

Architect Troubetzkoy has purposefully rid guests of out-dated hotel corridors and replaced them with a suspended sky bridge so that you feel as though you are floating on air

www.jademountain.com

British Airways operates daily flights from London Gatwick to St Lucia, with prices starting from £644 (as of January 2012). This includes a generous free baggage allowance, complimentary onboard drinks and snacks and your choice of seats. Flights can be booked online at www.ba.com.

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Destination...

Copenhagen Repeatedly recognised as a city with one of the best qualities of life in the world, Copenhagen is a wonderful place to experience Danish society, culture and cuisine. Olivia Sharpe explores Where to Stay:: Nimb Hotel Nimb Hotel (www.tivoli.dk) is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Copenhagen.With a magnificent Venetian marble façade facing the Tivoli Gardens, the hotel possesses just 14 rooms and suites, making it an intimate and exclusive place in which to reside during your visit. The rooms possess every modern luxury you could require, including the latest Bang & Olufsen technology and wireless internet, as well as additional, more homely features such as antique furniture, a birch wood fireplace and an extravagant four poster bed. One of the best features, in our opinion, is the gourmet Herman restaurant, run by Executive Chef Thomas Herman; the menu comprises delicious, traditional Danish dishes with a twist.

Where to Eat::: Noma The two Michelin star restaurant Noma (www.noma.dk), run by chef René Redzepi, was impressively ranked as the Best Restaurant in the World by Restaurant in both 2010 and 2011. Just by translating the name, you can get an idea of what to expect from a visit to this innovative restaurant; an acronym of the Danish words ‘Nordisk’ (Nordic) and ‘Mad’ (food), the restaurant is renowned for its reinvention and interpretation of Nordic cuisine. To match the unusual and quirky cooking, the restaurant is located in an old warehouse on the waterfront in the Christianshavn neighbourhood of central Copenhagen.

From top to bottom: Nimb Hotel at night-time; houses in the Nyhavn district; an old red windmill; Nimb Hotel terrace; Christiansborg Palace on the Islet of Slotsholmen; Nimb Hotel

What to See:: The Church of Our Saviour and Kronborg Castle in Helsingør The Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) is a baroque church, famous for its corkscrew spire and the external winding staircase that can be climbed to the top, not to mention the spectacular views over central Copenhagen. For lovers of literature, a visit to Kronborg in Helsingør is another must; the striking Renaissance castle and monumental military fortress is also known by many as “Elsinore”, the setting of William Shakespeare’s famous royal tragedy Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Make sure to see the grand, stately ballroom and the castle dungeons on your visit.

Don’t Miss:: the Latin Quarter For music lovers, a visit to Copenhagen cannot exclude an outing to the Latin Quarter where a fashionable jazz music community has been established. A neighbourhood that is more than 500 years old and built around the University of Copenhagen, the Latin Quarter possesses tiny streets that are filled with second-hand bookstores, trendy boutiques, eclectic music stores, jazz clubs and a candy factory that offers tours of its facility. Explore and enjoy at your leisure. n

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British Airways operates two flights per day from London City Airport to Copenhagen, with prices starting from £66. This price includes a generous free baggage allowance, complimentary onboard drinks and snacks and your choice of seats. Flights can be booked online at www.ba.com.

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The luxury of

Escapism

If the hustle and bustle of the city is becoming too much and you don’t have the luxury of your own country bolt-hole to which you can escape, ‘Gems’ and ‘Cribs’ of the Cornish variety may be just the ticket for you. Vicky Shaw county-hops from London to Cornwall for two idyllic long weekends away

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hree words: worth the journey. Cornwall may feel like a long drive away (250 miles, to be exact) but given that we’re prepared to travel double (Zurich), triple (Florence) or 14 times (New York) that for breaks abroad, this doesn’t seem so unreasonable. Stock up on petrol and snacks, load the iPod with sing-a-long-friendly albums and bundle family or friends into cars for a road trip through England’s green and pleasant land; namely, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Somerset and Devon, as this is the journey you’ll need to undertake to reach the beautiful coast and countryside of Cornwall. Cornish Gems are luxury holiday specialists but the company also has a portfolio of equally luxurious holiday homes in the same area under the sub-brand Cornish Cribs. For the former, visit Trugo Farm, perfect for family-friendly trips with younger children and in-laws; for the latter, head to The Edge for ultimate relaxation with friends.

Home on the Range Cornish Gem Trugo Farm is a substantial farm house which was originally part of the vast Lanhydrock estate, nestled in the countryside and close to the North Cornish coast. A local I ask tells me that the population of the parish was 171 in the 2001 census (so any worries I had about having nosy neighbours are dispelled) and, a good piece of trivia, that the main house of the estate was used as the set for the 1996 film version of Twelfth Night directed by Trevor Nunn, and starring Helena Bonham Carter. Trugo Farm, a pretty stone farmhouse accessed via a long driveway through acres of gloriously English land, has enough parking for three or four vehicles – very handy if family subsections are arriving separately, as ours were. Justwalking-baby in tow, and small children en route, we were pleased to see lots of soft furnishings and a children’s den in the attic (much appreciated by those under ten). The ground floor includes the large kitchen and breakfast room and two sitting rooms, which suited us perfectly as board games, drinks and DVD watching could take place concurrently. Foodies will be able to make the most of the well-equipped kitchen, with all the requisite mod-cons, and we loved the Villager log burner in the main living room; with the British weather, this could in theory be used for much of the year. I was more than happy to switch off my phone and abandon my laptop but if you’re not, WiFi broadband is available (“Thank God”, was the husband’s response). With six bedrooms and four bathrooms, there is plenty of space for the smaller family groups to be accommodated together and to have their own bathroom. The ground floor bedroom, with garden views, also comes with a baby changing table in the bathroom. Two separate staircases leading upstairs allow for a bit more privacy, comprising five further bedrooms and three bathrooms; our kids loved the bunk beds in the fifth bedroom (and its flatscreen TV – not allowed in their room at home) and the rocking horse in the sixth. In the summer, you must take advantage of the large gardens; my visit occurred as the weather turned cold, though, so we mainly used them for playing with our dog (dogs are welcome which is a big plus in a UK-based rental property – who wants to pay for kennels when you’re not actually leaving the country?) There’s an outdoor dining area with a barbeque

and enormous table. The utility area proved useful for wellies (and dog) post muddy walk, as did its washing machine, tumble dryer and (crucially) wine fridge. Although you may be satisfied with staying cosy inside, cooking up a storm and enjoying a glass or few of wine, there is much to explore in the local area. Mawgan Porth, Watergate Bay and Newquay are all very close by, offering excellent restaurants and swathes of sandy coastline; who says you have to go abroad to enjoy beautiful beaches? Trugo Farm is also fairly close to Newquay Airport (less than ten minutes drive) if you’d rather fly from London. Further up the North coast are Padstow, Constantine Bay, Harlyn, Trevone, Rock and Polzeath; all great places for days or afternoons out.

Trugo farm Trugo Farm is available to rent through Cornish Gems Luxury Holiday Homes. Weekly prices range from £749 to £2,598 and short breaks are available from October through to Easter (two night breaks start from £699). Luxury white linen and towels are provided along with a welcome gift for each guest arrival. For further information visit www.cornishgems.com or call 0844 800 281

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connoisseur travel

Living Life on the Edge

The edge The Edge is available to rent through Cornish Gems Luxury Holiday Homes. Weekly prices range from £841 to £3,738. Luxury white linen and towels are provided along with a welcome gift for each guest arrival. For further information visit www.cornishgems.com or call 0844 800 2813.

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While Trugo Farm may well be a Cornish Gem, The Edge is a ‘Cornish Crib’, implying to me that it’s maybe a kind of younger, cooler sister to the Gem (perhaps after having MTV’s Cribs inflicted on me by teenagers). Every single one is original in its design and appeal, says the website, and I find out that in Cornish, ‘crib’ signifies the meaning for a miner’s ‘break’. Well, we certainly needed a break as we drove out of London, away from work and the stresses of the city, under the proviso of celebrating a friend’s engagement while also catching up with each other. None of us, bar one, had visited the area before and so, driving through dark, winding country lanes, we had no idea about the gorgeous view we would wake up to. We could nonetheless see that The Edge was newly built – and ‘reversed-level’, I am told – with plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows and as we had to drive up part of a hill to get to it, we began to picture a pretty special day-time view. Gratefully clattering in late, after a rather epic drive, The Edge, in Polzeath, immediately came across as stylish, modern and immaculate – a muted colour palette, smart wooden floors, huge windows – but not in a way that excluded a feeling of comfort and cosiness. Shoes were kicked straight off and the complimentary welcome hamper was most welcome; as we didn’t bother to shop for food, preferring to wait until the morning to explore, we were ravenous and devoured the Cornish treats (as well as the thoughtfully chilled champagne). With morning came breathtaking views across Polzeath and its golden sandy beach. Three of the bedrooms have sea views so I was able to prop myself up in bed and stare out at the sea: beautiful. In addition to the three bedrooms, there’s a separate snug with two sofas, one of which turns into a very comfy sofa bed, with a flat screen TV and a wet room opposite so it’s perfect for any guests who’d prefer a little distance from the rest of the crowd. The early risers headed down to the Spar for provisions; just a five minute walk, and right by the beach, it’s easy to find and well stocked (but do expect it to be dearer than supermarket prices). Even though it was autumnal, the sun was up, shining weak beams onto the balcony, so we threw open the doors to enjoy the airy, bright feeling. The Edge has been cleverly designed to ensure the rooms take full advantage of the panorama: the front elevation features a vast expanse of glass that provides a gorgeous view from the lounge, kitchen and dining room. In fact, we spent a lion’s share of our time in the kitchen and dining room – cooking, chatting, drinking and enjoying each other’s company. As you’d expect, the kitchen is very well equipped; double electric oven with plate warmer, five ring induction hob, integral steam oven, microwave, fridge/freezer and dishwasher. Particularly useful were the ice dispenser (for juice or cocktails) and, instead of a kettle, the boiling water tap (although be warned: it is very hot!) The integral music system is fitted throughout the open plan spaces so there was much merriment as we played our current favourite albums at full volume – best of all without disturbing any neighbours. The wood burning stone was also a highlight, especially when the cold nights drew in. My advice? Stock up the fridge, put on some music, light the fire and settle down for a lovely, relaxing evening of food and drink with friends. n

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Oysters

Boisdale Canary Wharf Boisdale may be known best for its excellent steak and whisky offerings but don’t miss out on the equally impressive shellfish section of the menu. Native oysters include Loch Ryan Scottish and Duchy of Cornwall while the rock oysters come from Dorset and Maldon. Our favourites are the Portland Pearls but if you’re feeling hungry, opt for the Fruits de Mer dish with prawns, clams, crab, langoustine, mussels and oysters.

Chinese New Year 23 January 2012 marks the departure of the Year of the Rabbit and the exciting commencement of the Year of the Dragon. Chinese New Year is the most important Oriental festival and the colourful street celebrations include lion dancers, martial arts and various musical acts. This year promises to be extra special as it is officially the 60th anniversary of London Chinese New Year festivities. To experience the very best of Chinese cuisine,

head to the vibrant Royal China in Canary Wharf at 30 Westferry Circus, with fantastic views over the river and authentic Chinese cuisine. The Royal China Club is great if you’re interested in seafood cuisine; the Royal Dragon is one of the oldest Chinese restaurants, in the heart of Chinatown; and the Four Seasons has the most exquisite roasted duck London has to offer. www.royalchinagroup.co.uk

East London Wine School Wine lovers will be excited to hear that a new wine school is opening just by the Tower of London. The school is the brainchild of wine veteran Ian Bentley, who has become a recognised name in the field following a 20-year stint as a food and drink buyer for major supermarkets, as well as a slot as a judge at the prestigious International Wine Challenge at London’s Barbican. The school offers a variety of courses designed for every level of knowledge, whether you’re a connoisseur looking to learn more or a beginner getting to grips with the basics. What better way to spend your time than learning to taste wine? Choose from an eight-week course, an introductory evening tasting, an all-day Saturday champagne tasting with lunch or a fine wine evening. www.localwineschool.com

Plateau This Canary Wharf gem has recently enjoyed a refurbishment and now boasts a smart, modern décor perfect for supping oysters. Specialising in Colchester rock oysters, Plateau’s simple accompaniments allow you to enjoy the oyster’s fresh sea taste with nutty undertones, which come from the mineral-rich sea bed. The Colchester rock oyster is mature after two years and its excellent reputation for great taste has meant it recently been awarded Protected Geographic Indication status.

the parlour The parlour offers relaxed, all-day dining in an airy and design-led environment. The menu relies on what’s available at the market; however, the parlour is frequently able to offer fresh Irish rock oysters to its diners at its specially-built seafood bar. Included in the parlour’s seafood sharing board, the platter offers the best of the season and is ideal for those wishing to sample a variety of shellfish.

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The best food and drink that Canary Wharf has to offer American

Byron Hamburgers

Second Floor, Cabot Place 020 7715 9360 Smollensky’s

Reuters Plaza, E14 020 7719 0101 Gourmet Burger Kitchen

Jubilee Place, E14 020 7719 6408

Argentinian

GAUCHO CANARY

29 Westferry Circus, E14 020 7987 9494

British

Boisdale of Canary Wharf

Cabot Place 020 7715 5818

CANTEEN

The Park Pavilion Canada Square 0845 686 1122

THE PARLOUR

40 Canada Square, E14 0845 468 0100

European

The Battery

34 Westferry Circus, E14 020 8305 3089 Docklands Bar and Grill

Royal Victoria Docks Western Gateway, E16 020 7055 2119 FIRST EDITION

25 Cabot Square, E14 020 7513 0300 REEBOK RESTAURANT

16-19 Canada Square, E14 020 7970 0920

French

CafÉ Rouge

29-35 MacKenzie Walk, E14 020 7537 9696 Davy’s Wine Bar

31-35 Fisherman’s Walk, E14 020 7363 6633

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PLATEAU

Canada Place, E14 020 7715 7100

Gastro Pub The Fine Line

29-30 Fisherman’s Walk, E14 020 7513 0255

Rocket

Chuchill Place, E14 020 3200 2022 Wildwood

Jubilee Place, E14 020 7719 1213

Mexican

THE GUN

27 Coldharbour Lane, E14 020 7515 5222

WAHACA 40 Canada Square, E14 020 7516 9145

THE NARROW

Middle Eastern

44 Narrow Street, E14 020 7592 7950

Indian

MEZ RESTAURANT

571 Manchester Road, E14 020 7005 0421

Memsaheb

Nina’s TAZA express

65 - 67 Amsterdam Road, E14 020 7538 3008

322 Burdett Road, E14 020 7093 3552

Aniseed Bar & Indian Restaurant

Oriental

25 Westferry Road, E14 020 7517 9233

Italian/Pizza

ROKA 4 Park Pavilion, Canada Square 020 7636 5228

AMERIGO VESPUCCI

Royal China

CARLUCCIO’S

SRI NAM

2 Reuters Plaza, E14 020 7719 1749

1 North Colonnade, E14 020 7715 9515

Gourmet Pizza

Seafood

25 Cabot Square, E14 020 7513 0288

18-20 Cabot Square, E14 020 7345 9192 Jamie’s Italian

Churchill Place, E14 020 3002 5252 LA FIGA

45 Narrow Street, E14 020 7790 0077

Obika Mozzarella Bar

West Wintergarden, E14 020 7477 1477

30 West Ferry Circus, E14 020 7719 0888

CURVE

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

Spanish CAMINO

28 Westferry Circus, E14 020 7239 9077 EL FARO

Turnberry Quay E14 020 7987 5511 Iberica

Pizza Express

Cabot Place, E14 020 7513 0513 QUADRATO

The Four Seasons Hotel 46 Westferry Circus, E14 020 7510 1999

10 Cabot Square, E14 020 7636 8650

Turkish Hazev

2 South Quay Square Canary Wharf, E14 0207 515 9467

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A Taste of

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Spain

Following the success of Iberica’s Marylebone address, the only Spanish restaurant in London that boasts both a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin guide and two rosettes from the AA guide, Iberica has recently opened a sister restaurant in Canary Wharf. Here, Richard Brown’s taste buds were taught a lesson in temperatures, tastes and textures

ntil last month, my opinion of tapas restaurants had been tainted by too many mediocre establishments masquerading as ‘traditional’ Spanish eateries. Tapas, to me, had become synonymous with dishes that left taste buds far from tantalised and stomachs a far stretch from full. Happily, though, my attitude has been changed by just one visit to Iberica Canary Wharf; a restaurant not unique in promoting itself as a place that showcases true Spanish flavours but one that’s rare in actually delivering on its promise. Enter the discreetly fronted restaurant on a cold evening, as I did, and find a bright and airy space in immediate contrast to the dreary, wintery evening outside. Subtle Spanish styling that comes in the form of rustic red-brick walls and cowhide-covered seats – in addition to the enormous bull’s head mounted above the main bar – adds a Mediterranean atmosphere to what at first feels more like part-Parisian bistro, part-American diner. If Iberica’s interior doesn’t immediately scream all things Spanish, then its menu certainly does. Created by executive chef Nacho Manzano (of two Michelin Star restaurant Casa Marcial in Asturias, Spain), contemporary takes on tapas classics, such as octopus gallega with potatoes and paprika, are woven in amongst more traditional dishes, like the timehonoured Spanish omelette. Sitting on one of Iberica’s two open mezzanine floors, we chose to begin with toasted bread with tomato (£1.90), red berries, beetroot and anchovy gazpacho (£4.90) and the restaurant’s ‘half and half’, a selection of cheeses and cured hams (£12.30). Although the tomato bread resulted in divided opinions – for me it was overly seasoned but for my colleague a thoroughly enjoyable salty starter – the cheese and cured hams proved a real taste of Spain, taking us both back to times spent in the country, while the combination of sweetness and salt in the cold soup

provided an interesting contrast. After a pleasingly smooth glass of Finca Nueva, the next round of dishes came in the form of pan fried scallops with cauliflower purée, fennel and apple (£10.75), cheese and ham croquettes (£6.20) and the self-titled Iberica Burger with secreto pork loin and Piparras peppers (£7.90). A word of advice: if you choose the croquettes, go for the larger of the two portions Iberica offers as they’re excellent and the smaller option will leave you yearning for more. As good as the scallops were, for me, the mini burgers proved the stars of the night; the American-inspired take on a traditional Spanish pork dish was one that worked well on a menu dedicated to contemporary tapas. Following the burgers, Iberica’s whisky cake, with vanilla ice-cream and honey and vanilla foam, (£4.80) and caramelized Spanish rice pudding (£3.80) had a lot to live up to. Escaping being overpowered by the whisky, the cake was sweet and creamy and at no point too rich. The rice pudding, though it came with a caramelised top, was more savoury than sugary and can be highly recommended to anyone who hasn’t the sweetest of teeth. If you’re scouring Canary Wharf for a contemporary and energetic environment in which to enjoy fine food with friends, then the restaurant’s unique take on tapas classics, along with its extensive selection of cheese and cured meats, which includes the famous Jamón Iberico, is hard to beat. For the office, too, the restaurant offers all dishes as takeaway options. For clients, Iberica can arrange ham carving lessons or wine and sherry tasting sessions and alternatively, you can hire the restaurant exclusively for up to 130 people and have the menu specifically tailored to guests’ requirements. Salud! n Iberica Canary Wharf, 12 Cabot Square 020 7636 8650

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Men in Motion Picture Perfect

Young Landscape Photographer of the Year 2011, Oscar Stewart-Packe – Armchair, London, England

This winter, the Royal Albert Hall is being transformed into an Ancient Egyptian desert for Stephan Medcalf’s operatic production of Aida. Awardwinning Italian soprano Chiara Taigi takes the title role of an Ethiopian slave girl caught up in a tragic love triangle between the King’s daughter and the Captain of the Guard. As the terrible consequences of their liaison play out, the stage is excavated from beneath the floor of the auditorium and transformed into the sandy plains of a North African desert. Premiered in 1871, Aida is still potent, with Verdi’s musical score making for a climatic ending. 23 February – 11 March 2012 www.royalalberthall.com

Sam Taylor-Wood

Landscape Photographer of the Year 2011, Robert Fulton - Winter Field, Stirlingshire, Scotland

out about

Egyptian Opera

The annual competition for Landscape Photographer of the Year is taking place at the National Theatre where visitors can work their way through more than 100 photographs capturing the UK’s stunning natural beauty. Such breathtaking scenes are bound to inspire your next countryside adventure in the year ahead. The crisp, clear weather was perfect for the projection of winning images onto the massive exterior wall above the National Theatre, lighting up the South Bank with a wonderful selection of British landscapes. Jim Carter, released from his duties at Downton Abbey, presented the Landscape Photographer of the Year 2011 award and a £10,000 prize to Scotland’s Robert Fulton for his beautifully lit image of a winter field in Stirlingshire. Tickets are priced at £8. The National Theatre Until 28 January 2012 www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

The Guardian described Putrov’s performance in Men in Motion as “an enthralling synthesis of physical sensation and emotional revelation” and it wasn’t wrong. The male form in all of its beauty will be revealed on the Sadler’s Wells stage this January by the Royal Ballet Principal and he will be accompanied by sensations Sergei Polunin, National Dance Award-winner Daniel Proietto, Dmitry Gudanov and Igor Kolb. The performance will be conducted by Richard Bernas and performed by a live orchestra. Completing the show’s line-up is Russell Maliphant’s Afterlight (Part One) and Nacho Duato’s Remanso, overall placing the artistry of the male dancer firmly in the 21st century. 27 – 29 January 2012 www.sadlerswells.com

out & about

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place your bets

“Sexy, sultry, brilliant, breathtaking”; “a sizzling display of explosive tango routines”; “Strictly sensational!”; “a fiesta of dramatic dance, beautiful costumes and sublime music”. These are just some of the rave reviews that have poured in from press who cannot get over the brilliance that is the dance spectacular Midnight Tango. Having enthralled audiences on a record-breaking UK tour, stars of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace bring their live show into London’s West End. The former World Champions are joined by ten of the world’s finest tango dancers, plus an internationally renowned tango band with a sizzling production that fuses dazzling choreography with intoxicating tango rhythms. Most definitely not to be missed, book now for the show which opens on 20 January. www.midnighttango.co.uk

Heighten the thrill of horseracing by investing in a racehorse. Inner Circle Thoroughbreds is a new syndicate company run by Channel 4 Racing’s Jim McGrath and fellow ex-Timeform Director Peter Bell. Inner Circle is offering shares in two racehorse syndicates from £9,995 per share. Canary Wharf readers joining by 31 March 2012 will receive a free Inner Circle jacket made by Musto which normally retails at £125. For more information, call 07989 402111 or visit www.innercirclethoroughbreds.com

MAT / Shutterstock.com

Midnight Tango

The Ladykillers The 1955 film version of The Ladykillers, starring old Hollywood greats Alec Guinness and Peter Sellers, is still a much-loved classic but the stage version at the Gielgud Theatre which features a star-studded comedy cast including Peter Capaldi (The Thick Of It), James Fleet (The Vicar Of Dibley), Ben Miller and Stephen Wight, is already a huge success, with the actors most certainly up to the comedic challenge. The Ladykillers tells the story of eccentric old lady Mrs Wilberforce whose life is hilariously turned upside down by the arrival of Professor Marcus and his friends, who make up a most unlikely group of criminals. However, the Professor’s plan starts to unravel in a superbly black comedic fashion. The Gielgud Theatre Until 14 April 2012 www.gielgud.official-theatre.co.uk

Fireworks and fun Hailed by Philip Pullman as “one of the best productions of my work I’ve ever seen”, the Birmingham Stage Company has brought its charming production of The Firework-Maker’s Daughter to London. The play, an adaptation of one of Pullman’s earliest works, tells the story of Lila, whose dreams of becoming a firework-maker are dashed when her father tells her it is no job for a girl. Pullman,

best known for his hugely popular His Dark Materials trilogy, declared, “What a great cast! What musical talent as well as charm and stage presence!” We agree: this is a colourful, entertaining evening for the whole family (children aged 4+). Bloomsbury Theatre 14 December 2011 – 21 January 2012 Call the box office on 020 7388 8822 or book online at www.thebloomsbury.com

119

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LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area

C o v e r i n g CANARY WHARF, D OC K L AN D S , WA P P ING & T h e C i t y

A FRESH START

2012 Predictions

Something Special

A FABULOUS NEW DEVELOPMENT

LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Editor

Emma Mills

Assistant Editor Gabrielle Lane

Head of Design Hiren Chandarana

Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong

Designer

Ashley Lewis

Production Manager

january

Welcome note...

elcome to the January issue of London Homes & Property magazine where we’re hearing that the London housing market continues to prove unique and inspiring. The last quarter of 2011 was a successful one for both landlords and homeowners according to our experts (p. 162) and predictions suggest that 2012 will also be a positive one. As we’ve been noting over the past few months, this year the Olympics is set to have a profound impact on the local rental market, and with news that one Greenwich homeowner is looking at a return of £20,000 per week, now is the time to seize the opportunity if you have a vacant home (p. 124). Alternatively, those looking to choose a gorgeous new property for the long term might find our piece on a beautiful converted school building in Camberwell of great interest (p. 158). Happy Hunting!

Fiona Fenwick

Production

Hugo Wheatley

Senior Property Manager Samantha Ratcliffe

Finance Manager Elton Hopkins

Managing Director Eren Ellwood

RUNWILD M

7 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London E14 4JB T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 info@londonhomesandproperty.com www.londonhomesandproperty.com Runwild Media Group cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Group take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

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

A FRESH START

2012 Predictions

Something Special

A FABULoUs neW deVeLoPMent

contents 124

156 living local

124 Area News 137 State of the Market

158

new homes

156 Property Latest 158 Development Focus 162 Expert Comment

living local

areanews By Richard Brown

Homeowners flock to fill the hotel room void When the 2012 Olympic Games rolls into town in seven months time, they will bring with them not just people from across the United Kingdom but over 300,000 overseas visitors, 20,000 international press members, and thousands more athletes, coaches and supporting staff. Even for a city that can boast more than 70 five-star hotels, that’s a lot of people to accommodate. With demand for rooms outstripping supply, it will come as no surprise that astute, east London homeowners and landlords are planning on taking advantage of the shortage of places for people to stay. In fact, some landlords are even attempting to rid themselves of their regular tenants during the duration of the games – a period where the cost of short-term, one or two week rents could rise by as much as 600 per cent.

Transport latest… Bored of traversing the capital by bus and tube? Then take to the Thames in a tall ship. Running from 25 July to 12 August 2012, the inaugural Sail Royal Greenwich provides you with a chance to experience London from a very different point of view. Every day for three weeks, 20 Tall Ships will depart from Royal Arsenal Pier at Woolwich and head west to explore some of London’s most iconic landmarks. To strengthen business links and build up relationships with your contacts, visit www.sailroyalgreenwich.co.uk to view the hospitality packages available this summer.

While some tenants are seeking compensation in return for being evicted during the summer, if you own your own home, there’s certainly money to be made. As you might expect, properties within walking distance of Victoria Park and Stratford are proving the most popular, although interest has also been shown in apartments in central and west London, particularly for those conveniently located near an underground station. If you were in two minds about renting out your own house during the Games, then perhaps the news that one Greenwich resident is expecting to let their home for £24,000 a week during the period will sway your decision.

The city of London celebrates Charles Dickens 2012 marks the 200th anniversary of Charles Dickens’s birthday and the Museum of London will be marking the date with a special show dedicated to the famous author. Recreating the atmosphere of Victorian London through sound and projections, the museum will showcase paintings, photographs, costumes and objects which illustrate the themes that Dickens wove into his works.

Did you know? That there are more languages spoken in London than in any other city in the world

Where to park your super yacht Exclusive super yacht moorings situated around the Wood Wharf event area at Canary Wharf will be available to rent during this summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Olympics. Suitable for boats between 25 and 60 metres in length, the moorings will provide a spectacular setting from which to experience this summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sport. The non-tidal moorings will come with 24 hour on-site security and afford effortless routes to the Games, central London and the West End by providing direct access onto the River Thames.

125

Wood Wharf, Greenwich SE10

Galaxy Building, Isle of Dogs E14

Two bedroom duplex penthouse in excellent condition with fantastic river views towards Canary Wharf. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, open plan kitchen reception room, daily porter and private parking. Approximately 124 sq m (1,338 sq ft)

A large one bedroom apartment on the 8th floor of this portered development. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, open plan reception, kitchen, balcony with River Thames views and parking. Approximately 65 sq m (704 sq ft)

Leasehold

Guide price: £650,000

Guide price: £325,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Wingfield Court, Blackwall E14

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Dunbar Wharf, Limehouse E14

Well proportioned two double bedroom apartment situated in Virginia Quay. It is brought to the market in good internal order and has a balcony and concierge. Approximately 87 sq m (936 sq ft)

A much sought after two bedroom riverside apartment. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), reception room opening onto large balcony, separate kitchen, porter and private parking. Approximately 102 sq m (1,098 sq ft)

Leasehold

Share of Freehold

Guide price: £350,000

Guide price: £750,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

CW and City Jan 2012 Advert SALES - 12 December 2011 - 15664

020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

16/12/2011 10:24:13

St Davids Square, Isle of Dogs E14 Delightful river views

Light and bright apartment in the popular development St Davids Square. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further bedrooms, family bathroom, good size reception room with access to a private balcony, fully integrated kitchen. Other benefits include protected parking, a 24 hour concierge and full leisure facilities including a pool, gym and sauna. Approximately 89 sq m (964 sq ft) Leasehold Guide price: £500,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966

Goodhart Place, Limehouse E14 Fantastic living space

A well presented and light three bedroom apartment offering flexible living space. The lower floor comprises a kitchen diner, separate dual aspect dining room and reception room as well as a guest WC. Upstairs the bathrooms (one of which is an en suite to the master bedroom) have been newly refurbished and have underfloor heating. Additionally there is well insulated loft storage and a garage. Approximately 135 sq m (1,462 sq ft) Leasehold Guide price: £635,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary-Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9966

CW and City Magazines Jan 2012 Advert 2 SALES - 13 December 2011 - 15697

16/12/2011 13:00:31

Knight Frank

Naxos Building, Canary Wharf E14

St Davids Square, Isle of Dogs E14

A contemporary two bedroom penthouse offered fully furnished and including a balcony and terrace with river views. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen separate utility room, reception with floor to ceiling windows. The development includes 24hr concierge and a gym.

Well presented two bedroom apartment to let in St Davids Square. In brief, the accommodation compromises 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, separate fully fitted kitchen, reception, parking space, leisure facilities. This apartment is offered furnished.

£995 per week Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

£355 per week Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Undine Road, Canary Wharf E14

Pierpoint Building, Canary Wharf E14

Spacious and well presented two bedroom apartment to let in Clippers Quay. In brief the accommodation compromises 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a fully fitted kitchen, reception with wood floors, balcony with dock and garden views. This apartment is offered furnished.

A luxury two bedroom apartment on the first floor, offering river views across gardens. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 en suite), separate kitchen. Full use of on-site leisure facilities and 24 hour porterage.

£385 per week Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

£475 per week Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank

New Providence Wharf, Isle of Dogs E14 Boardwalk Place, Canary Wharf E14 Boardwalk Place, Canary Wharf E14 E14 E14 New Providence Wharf, Isle of Dogs E14 New Providence Wharf, Isle ofCanary Dogs E14 Boardwalk Boardwalk Place, Canary New Providence Isle of Dogs E14Wharf Place, Canary Wharf A spacious 14th floor Wharf, apartment with extensive A spacious two bedroom apartment with aWharf large balcony spacious 14th floor apartment extensive Canary Wharf andA City views from the balcony.with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 14ththe floor apartment with extensive A spacious 14th floor apartment with extensive CanaryCanary Wharf Wharf andA spacious City views from balcony. Bedroom, 1 bathroom, impressive reception area, fully 1fitted kitchen with high and Cityreception views from the balcony. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, andimpressive City views from the balcony. 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, area, fully fitted kitchenwith high specification integrated appliances, balcony, private parking impressive reception area,fitted fully fittedprivate kitchen with high impressive reception area, fully kitchen withparking high specificationintegrated balcony, space, leisure facilities, appliances, 24 hour porterage. specification integrated appliances, balcony, parking specification integrated appliances, balcony, privateprivate parking space, leisure facilities, 24 hour porterage. facilities, 24porterage. hour porterage. space,space, leisureleisure facilities, 24 hour Guide price: £370 per week Guide Price: £370 Canary Wharf Lettings Guide price: £370 per Guide price: £370 per week week Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings Canary Lettings Canary Wharf Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7512 9955 020KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 7512 9955cwharf@knightfrank.com cwharf@knightfrank.com KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Aoffering spacious two bedroom with a large 2 bathrooms balcony views to Canaryapartment Wharf. 2 bedrooms, (1 A spacious two bedroom apartment a balcony large balcony Aoffering spacious two apartment with awith views tobedroom Canary Wharf. 2area, bedrooms, 2large bathrooms en suite), spacious reception high specification kitchen, offering views to Canary Wharf. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 offering views to Canary Wharf. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1 (1 en suite), spacious reception area, high private parking space. The apartment is specification available furnished or enprivate suite), spacious reception area,specification high specification kitchen, en suite), spacious reception area, high kitchen, kitchen, parking space. The apartment is available unfurnished. private parking space. The apartment is available furnished or private parking space. The apartment is available furnished or furnished or unfurnished. unfurnished. unfurnished. Guide price: £450 per week Guide price: £450 per week Canary Wharf Lettings Guide price: £450 per Guide price: £450 per week week Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings Canary Lettings Canary Wharf Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 020 7512 9955cwharf@knightfrank.com cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955 KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Millenium Drive, Canary Wharf E14 E14 Horizon Canary WharfWharf E14 E14 Millennium Drive, Canary Wharf HorizonBuilding, Building, Canary Spacious andDrive, well presented two bedroom apartment A modern apartment set onCanary this 4th floor of this much Millennium Drive, Canary Wharf Horizon Building, Canary Wharf E14 Millennium Canary Wharf E14 E14 Horizon Building, E14 Spacious well presented two bedroom A modern onbedroom the 4th Wharf floor of this much sought to let inand Millenium Drive. 2 double bedroomsapartment with fitted to let in sought afterapartment set building. Double with fitted Millennium Drive. 2 double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, wardrobes, 2 bathrooms, reception room with plenty of to let in Spacious andpresented well presented two bedroom apartment to let in Spacious and well two bedroom apartment 2 bathrooms, reception room with plenty of space, large space, large kitchen, day porterage. Available furnished. Millennium Drive. 2 bedrooms with wardrobes, fitted wardrobes, Millennium Drive. 2 doubledouble bedrooms with fitted kitchen, day porterage. Available furnished. 2 bathrooms, reception room with plenty of space, large 2 bathrooms, reception room with plenty of space, large kitchen, day porterage. Available furnished. kitchen, day porterage. Available furnished. Guide price: £395 per week Guide price: £395 per week Guide price: £395 per Canary Wharf Lettingsweek week Guide price: £395 per Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings Canary Lettings Canary Wharf Wharf Lettings 020KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings 7512 9955cwharf@knightfrank.com cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955 KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

after building. Double bedroomon with fitted wardrobes and ensought and enapartment set suite bathroom, single bedroom/study, A modern the 4th floor of this Awardrobes modern apartment set on the 4th floor of this much much sought suite WC, bathroom, single bedroom/study, guest WC, reception guest reception room, balcony with views of Canary after building. Double bedroom with wardrobes fitted wardrobes after building. Double bedroom with fitted and enand en room,suite balcony with views of Canary Wharf, fully fitted kitchen. Wharf, fully fitted kitchen. bathroom, single bedroom/study, WC, reception suite bathroom, single bedroom/study, guest guest WC, reception balcony with views of Canary fully kitchen. fitted kitchen. room, room, balcony with views of Canary Wharf,Wharf, fully fitted GuidePrice price: £370 per week Guide £370 per week Guide price: £370 per Canary Wharf Lettingsweek week Guide price: £370 per Canary Wharf Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings Lettings CanaryCanary Wharf Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 020 7512 9955cwharf@knightfrank.com cwharf@knightfrank.com KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank Victoria Wharf, Limehouse E14

Recently refurbished apartment Newly refurbished two double bedroom two bathroom 1st floor apartment located in Limehouse, directly on the river. This lovely furnished apartment is located in a smart portered development with underground parking and good security. It also comprises a good size reception room with two balconies, separate fully fitted kitchen, new wooden floors, and great south west facing views of the river. £525 per week

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

Thomas More Street, Wapping E1W Light and bright apartment Stylish two double bedroom two bathroom 2nd floor apartment located in west Wapping close to St Katharine’s Dock and Tower Hill. This modern apartment has a new fully fitted kitchen, lovely bathroom suites, great storage, parking and private terrace with south facing water views. It is available furnished.

£565 per week

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

Knight Frank Gainsborough House, Limehouse E14 Wonderful Views

Beautiful and bright three bedroom penthouse apartment in Limehouse boasting lovely views of Limehouse basin. The apartment benefits from a good size reception room with oak floors leading out on to a balcony as well as a spiral staircase leading to a further reception room on the mezzanine floor. There is a wonderful spacious master bedroom with en suite bathroom and balcony.

ÂŁ895 per week

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

New Crane Wharf, Wapping E1W Lovely river views

Spacious two double bedroom, two bathroom 2nd floor flat set in this great portered Warehouse conversion on Wapping High Street. This beautifully presented furnished apartment has a large reception room with a semi open plan fitted kitchen, two brand new bathroom suites, guest W.C, hard wooden floors, underground parking and lovely views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf. ÂŁ650 per week

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

1 2

savills.co.uk

BERMONDSEY STREET, se1

BENBOW HOUSE, se1

2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 4 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø playroom ø terrace ø garage ø 310 sq m (3,336 sq ft)

3 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 4 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø study ø 2 balconies ø parking space ø 24hr concierge ø 405 sq m (4,364 sq ft)

Guide £2.999 million Freehold

Price on application Leasehold

3 4

Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800

ST. JOHNS PARK, se3

ST. HILDAS WHARF, e1w

7 bedrooms ø 4 reception rooms ø 5 bathrooms ø indoor swimming pool ø garden ø garage ø 711 sq m (7,653 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 2 balconies ø 2 parking spaces ø concierge ø 98 sq m (1,053 sq ft)

Guide £2.99 million Freehold

Guide £775,000 Share of Freehold

Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Docklands juprowse@savills.com 020 7456 6800

1 2

savills.co.uk

WEST INDIA QUAY, e14

DISCOVERY DOCK, e14

Reception room ø kitchen ø bedroom ø bathroom ø 24hr concierge ø 60 sq m (650 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø gym ø balcony ø 24hr concierge ø parking space ø 89 sq m (957 sq ft)

Guide £425,000 Leasehold

Guide £600,000 Leasehold

3 4

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

WEST INDIA QUAY, e14

KEEPIER WHARF, e14

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø guest cloakroom ø 24hr concierge ø 455 sq m (1,561 sq ft)

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø utility room ø concierge ø parking space ø 191 sq m (2,059 sq ft)

Guide £850,000 Leasehold

Guide £1.2 million Share of Freehold

Savills Canary Wharf bpage@savills.com 020 7531 2500

1 2

savills.co.uk

HERMITAGE COURT, e1w

LANGBOURNE PLACE, e14

Bedroom with en suite bathroom ø open plan reception room / kitchen ø balcony ø private parking ø daytime porterage

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms ø wood flooring ø balcony ø allocated parking ø gated development

£395 per week Furnished

£525 per week Flexible furnishings

3 4

Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500

CITY QUAY, e1w

GAINSBOROUGH HSE, e14

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ø marina views ø private parking ø 24hr porterage

3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ø covered parking space ø mezzanine ø private terrace ø residents gym ø concierge

£775 per week Furnished

£895 per week Furnished

Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500

The Americas

Europe

Asia

71 100 54 35

offices & associates

Australasia

Middle East & Africa

offices & associates

A nETworK of ovEr 300 AssociATEs

As at october 2011.

South of the river, across the pond, and anywhere overseas. We can show your property to buyers everywhere. More than youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for. savills.co.uk

Savills has over 200 offices worldwide and 22 in London, below are those local to you. Savills Canary Wharf 4 Westferry Circus, London E14 4HD. 020 7531 2500. canarywharf@savills.com Savills Docklands Execution Dock, 80 Wapping High Street, London E1W 2NE. 020 7456 6800. docklands@savills.com

London's Finest Properties

LETTINGS

SALES

Caspian Wharf, Bow, E1

Westgate Apartment, Excel, E16

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E14

• Studio Apartment • 2nd Floor • Fully Furnished • Balcony • Concierge Service • Nr. Multiple Transport Links

• One Bedroom Apartment • 6th Floor • Fully Furnished • Fully Fitted Gymnasium • Concierge Services • Nr. Royal Victoria DLR

• 17th Floor One Bedroom Apartment • Highly Prestigious Riverside Development • Exceptional Leisure Facilities • 24hr Concierge • Moments from Canary Wharf

• Stunning 13th Floor Two Bed Apartment • Uninterrupted River Views From All Rooms • Excellent Condition Throughout • Secure Underground Parking • 24hr Concierge and Exceptional Leisure facilities

Asking Price £325,000

Asking Price £475,000

£270.00 per week

£290.00 per week

Capital East, Excel, E16

The Landmark, West Tower, E14

Sugar House, Leman Street, E1

Westgate Apartments, Royal Docks, E16

• One Bedroom Apartment • 7th Floor • Fully Furnished • Floor to Ceiling windows • Resident Gymnasium • Parking Available

• One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • Balcony • Onsite Gymnasium • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. South Quay DLR

• Immaculate 1st Floor Show Apartment • Two Bedroom/ Two Bathroom • Interior Designed • Exceptional Specification • Secure Underground Parking • Moments from the City and Tube

• 5th floor Two Bedroom/ Two Bathroom • Immaculate Condition • Concierge • Good Transport Links • Close Proximity to Canary Wharf and the City

£300.00 per week

£365.00 per week

£1,080,000

£314,950

New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf, E14

Lanterns Court, Canary Wharf, E14

Christopher Court, City Quarter, E1

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E1

• One Bedroom Apartment • 13th Floor • Balcony • Fully Furnished • Resident Health and Fitness Club • 24hr Concierge Service

• A Selection of Two Bedroom Apartments • Fantastic Views • Fully Furnished • Parking Available • 24hr Concierge Service • Walking Distance to Canary Wharf

• 2 Bedroom/ 2 Bathroom Corner Unit • Private Patio • Highly Desirable Development • Exceptional Level of Specification • Moments from DLR/Tube and City

• 4th Floor Two bed/One Bath • Stunning Riverside Development • Balcony • Valet Parking • Moments from DLR and Jubilee Line

£425.00 per week

£460.00 per week

Asking Price £529,950

Asking Price £399,999

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

Central London 020 7582 7989

West London 020 8896 9990

Finchley 020 8446 9524

Docklands 020 7476 0125

Deptford & Greenwich 020 8692 2244

living local

State of the market ALASDAIR CARPENTER, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LOURDES ESTATE AGENTS, COMMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MARKET

BUILDING THE FUTURE

s we usher in 2012 there is some renewed hope for UK house builders in what is bound to be a turbulent time for the broader UK economy. The coalition government has recently published their housing strategy. This document contains six new measures aimed at stimulating growth in the new build housing sector. The most material change is that of a new government backed MIG (mortgage indemnity guarantee) scheme. This scheme should in theory have two main effects on the property market. Firstly, it will increase the amount of mortgage lending at higher loan to value levels and this will in turn increase the supply of property as developers attempt to satisfy demand. The vast majority of lenders have already agreed in principle to participate in the new scheme with the government effectively insuring against default. This should hopefully give renewed hope to prospective first-time buyers across the country who have struggled over the last few years to raise

the required level of deposit demanded by most lenders. It must be stressed that this MIG scheme is specifically for new build homes. This will stimulate the construction industry and the new home market. It is uncertain what ramifications this will have, if any on the wider residential property market. It will also be interesting to see at what level the new 95 per cent loan to value products will be priced. Will they be attractive enough to entice the masses or will the lenders price the additional risk incurred at an unattractive or uncompetitive rate? The other measures to be introduced include revisiting historic planning permissions, a £500m fund to support infrastructure for development, £400m for work in progress, new public sector land and support for people wishing to build their own home. All with the aim of creating further supply and in turn more employment in the housing market. n Lourdes Estate Agents 020 7538 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com

137

SALES

Watergardens Square, London SE16 £389,950

Capstan Square, London, E14

A well presented second floor two bed two bath apartment in the ever popular Watergardens. Specification is excellent and includes: underfloor heating, stone worktops & Siemens appliances. The development comes with concierge and 24hr security.

A beautifully presented 3 bedroom 3 storey mid terrace town house situated near South Quay DLR. Open plan kitchen/living area, ground floor cloakroom and further family bathroom, integrated garage and off street parking.

£409,950

A two bed apartment situated on the fourth floor of an impressive Thames side development with balcony, superb panoramic views and underground parking. Development benefits from residents gym and 24hrs porter. Mudchute DLR.

Baltimore Wharf, London, E14 OIEO £460,000

Pan Peninsula, London E14

City Harbour, London E14

A brand new luxury apartment offering two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Situated on the 10th floor with two east facing balconies together with allocated parking. Adjacent to Crossharbour DLR.

A contemporary 9th floor one bedroom apartment finished to a high specification with well proportioned living space, balcony and panoramic views. Extremely popular development with unparalleled facilities located next to South Quay DLR.

A large three bedroom, three bathroom apartment located within the stylish ‘City Harbour’ development boasting two SW facing balconies with dock views. Offered with secure parking and a 24 hour Concierge.

Horizon Building, London, E14 £1,750,000

West India Quay, London, E14 £975,000

Waterman Building, E14

A spectacular three bedroom penthouse covering the entire top floor of the building with panoramic views and state of the art finishes. Benefits of note include three bathrooms, extensive outdoor terraces and 2 secure parking spaces. A unique opportunity.

This amazing 1568ft² one bedroom duplex apartment is the finest we have seen. Double height ceilings, floor to ceiling glazing with unrivalled panoramic views, parking, concierge and access to room service from the neighbouring 5 star Marriot hotel. West India Quay DLR.

A spectacular four bed, three bath duplex penthouse boasting over 2220sqft of internal space, with unparalleled views from four stunning terraces. Bespoke finishes throughout provide unique living accommodation quite unlike any other. Superb location. Viewing highly recommended.

£600,000

Galaxy Building, London, E14

£410,000

£599,950

ER D R N E U FF O

All Awards 2010/11

£1,799,950

020 7715 9700 joneslanglasalle.co.uk

LETTINGS

Altius Apartments, E14

£260pw

Port East Apartments, E14

£675pw

Belgrave Court, E14

£695pw

Brand new generously sized one bed apartment with spacious balcony, open plan kitchen and living room and ample storage space. Benefits include bike storage and a huge roof top terrace for communal use and is available now for viewings.

A truly stunning 1200ft² two bed two bath warehouse conversion apartment presented in excellent condition and offering views towards West India Dock and Canary Wharf. Vaulted ceilings, mezzanine & secure parking.

A one bed one bath luxury apartment is fully furnished to the highest standard and is located on the 8th floor and benefits from floor-to-ceiling windows leading onto the Balcony. Just a short walk to North Greenwich tube and the 02 arena.

(Various) Baltimore Wharf

prices from £295pw

Brand new immaculate apartments are finished to the very highest standard, this development offers luxury living only moments walk to Canary Wharf. Features include under floor heating, wood flooring, tiled bathrooms and stone worktops. Private balconies offer stunning dock views. Development boats 24 hour concierge and Crossharbour DLR on the door step. Available furnished to the highest level. EARLY VIEWING RECOMMENDED!

(Various) Landmark, E14

prices from £360pw

An unrivalled selection of one, two and three bedroom apartments currently available in The Landmark development offering stunning views and an enviable location extremely close to Canary Wharf. Specification is excellent and includes: floor to ceiling glazing, comfort cooling throughout, engineered wood flooring, kitchens with granite finishes and Siemens appliances, bathrooms with marble finishes and Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware. Residents will benefit from a 24 hour concierge service, private gymnasium and a ‘retail’ area at ground floor level. Available now.

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

dockland.sales@eu.jll.co.uk

Happy 2012 from all at Alan Selby & Partners

Pan Peninsula E14

New Providence Wharf E14

Millennium Harbour E14

Lanterns Court E14

Langbourne Place E14

New Atlas Wharf E14

41 Millharbour E14

Jetty Court E14

Burrells Wharf E14

Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants

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

We require new instructions in the following developments...

Canary Riverside E14

Virginia Quay E14

The Odyssey E14

Arnhem Wharf E14

Ferguson Close E14

Cyclopes Wharf E14

Maritime Quay E14

Hutchings Wharf E14

Ontario Tower E14

we look forward to assisting you throughout the year with all of your property needs.

Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants

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

LOUDRES LET

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

Roy Square, Limehouse, E14 • Studio apartment • Recently redecorated • High ceilings • No onward chain

Canary Central, South Quay, E14 • One bedroom • Gas central heating • Walking distance to Canary • Close to South Quay DLR

Wharf

Compass Point, Westferry, E14 • One double bedroom • Secure car parking • New wooden flooring • Close to Westferry DLR

£229,999

£247,500

£264,995

New Providence Wharf, E14

Carmine Wharf, Westferry, E14

Gainsborough House, South Quay, E14

£274,950

£290,000

Cardale Street, Isle of Dogs, E14

New Providence Wharf, E14

Shirley Street, Canning Town, E16

£495,000

Offers IRO £1,000,000

• One bedroom • Natural stone bathroom • Under floor heating • 24 hour concierge

• Three double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Large through reception/dining • Good decorative order

£425,000

room

• Two double bedrooms • Immaculately presented • Secure car parking • Large private rear garden

• Two double bedrooms • 14th floor • River views • Concierge

020 7538 9250

• Exceptionally large one bedroom • First floor • Private balcony • Secure underground car parking

• Building Plot • Full Planning consent • Close to Canning Town tube • Mixed use development

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

New Atlas Wharf, Westferry Road, E14

City Tower, Crossharbour, E14

Gainsborough House, E14 • One bedroom • Fully furnished • Private balcony • Leisure facilities

• One bedroom • Fully furnished • Private balcony • River views

£300 per week

£325 per week

£350 per week

Ionian Building, Narrow Street, E14

Apollo Building, Westferry Road, E14 • Duplex apartment • Two double bedrooms • Two double bathrooms • Large terrace

• Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Secure parking • Leisure facilities

£385 per week

£425 per week

£475 per week

Tequila Wharf, Limehouse, E14

Brightlingsea Place, Narrow Street, E14

Ocean Wharf, Westferry Road, E14

£895 per week

£950 per week

£1100 per week

• One bedroom • Fully furnished • Private balcony • Close to Canary Wharf

• Two double bedrooms • Two bathrooms • Fully furnished • Private balcony

• Penthouse apartment • Three double bedrooms • Three bathrooms • Large wrap around terrace

• Townhouse • Three/four bedrooms • Secure parking • Close to Canary Wharf

020 7538 9250

Cascades Tower, Westferry Road, E14

• Duplex penthouse • Three double bedrooms • Wrap around terrace • River views

www.lourdes-estates.com

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

UNIQUE HOMES, UNIQUE SERVICE, UNIQUE PEOPLE A t a i l o r e d s e r v i c e f r o m L a n g f o rd R u s s e l l f o r d i s t i n c t i ve a n d e x c l u s i ve h o m e s

ASHdOwN, NINHAMS wOOd, KESTON BR6 This inviting five bedroom property occupies a substantial southerly facing plot on a highly regarded private road belonging to the Keston Park Estate. Set behind secure privacy gates the house offers an abundance of ground floor space for the family or to entertain.

ÂŁ1,650,000 Freehold

RUSHMORE HILL, KNOCKHOLT TN14 A charming six bedroom home set almost centrally on an extensive and private plot of approximately 1.8 acres. The impressive approach to the house is via electronic gates leading to a long and graceful driveway. There is an opportunity for further permitted development within the grounds.

ÂŁ2,850,000 Freehold

UNIQUE is a Specialist Division of Langford Russell

Unique at Langford Russell Chislehurst Office 13 High Street, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5AB Tel 020 8378 1222 Email enquiries@uniquepropertiesuk.com

Offices Also At: Beckenham & Bromley

www.uniqueproper tiesuk.com www.langfordr ussell.co.uk

A New Approach To Letting In London 1 & 2 Bedroom New Apartments From ÂŁ1,000 pcm - Canada Water / Surrey Quays Spacious and light, bespoke contemporary apartments. Zone 2 location one stop from Canary Wharf with underground car parking.

Letting Agent

Show Home Open 10am - 5pm, January 21st 2012, Trundleys Road SE8.

Call 020 8852 4455

acorn.ltd.uk

River Habitat RiverHabitat.co.uk

Belgrave Ct, CANARY RIVERSIDE, E14 FANTASTIC RIVERVIEW FLAT WITH EASY CANARY WHARF WALK

Berkeley Tower, Canary Riverside, E14 SUPERB LUXURY APARTMENT WITH PANORAMIC RIVER VIEWS

n 10th FLoor, F/UF n 1,843 Sq. Ft. Beautiful Three, Double Bedroom Apartment n Stunning views up and down the river S. and SW. n Floor to Ceiling Windows and Bay area facing South n Portered Building, Lifts, 24 Hour Security. Next to Virgin Active Gym n Parking space. Available NOW

n 12th Floor. U/F n 1,816 Sq. Ft. three double bedroom, three en-suites, Cloakroom. n West and East Views. Balcony n Easy walk into Canary Wharf n Portered Building, Lifts, 24 Hour Security. Next to Virgin Active Gym n Secure Underground Car Parking Space. Available NOW

£1,250 p/w REDUCED

£1,100 p/w or SALE £1,450,000 LHD

Belgrave Court, Canary Riverside, E14 FANTASTIC RIVERVIEW FLAT WITH EASY CANARY WHARF WALK

Belgrave Court, Canary Riverside, E145 LOVELY VIEWS ONTO THE GARDEN SQUARE & RIVER

n 1,592 Sq. Ft. beautiful two, double bedroom apartment n Stunning floor to ceiling curved windows n Juliet Balcony with Breathtaking N.W. view n Parking space. Available Mid-December 2011.

n 1,095 Sq. Ft. beautiful two double bedroom apartment n Floor to Ceiling Windows with southern views n Portered Building with lifts and 24 hour security n Balcony n Parking Space. Available January 2012

£800 p/w or SALE £1,100,000

SOLD STC

• info@RiverHabitat.co.uk • T: 020 7791 9830 • F: 020 7791 9831 • The Suite LG. 655 Commercial Road, Limehouse, London E14 7LW

Rendall and Rittner Lettings Ltd.

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

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

Lettings

City View House, Bethnal Green E2E2 £275.00 Per week

New Caledonian Wharf SE16

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

Three Double bedroom, duplex apartment is available in this prestigious development known as New Caledonian Wharf. The property comprises: Three double bedrooms, three bathrooms, two receptions, Private terrace, with views of The River Thames. Parking. Onsite leisure facilities. 24Hour concierge.

Heron House WC1

Admiral Place, Rotherhithe SE16

£600 Per week

Two bedroom Refurbished apartment in this centrally located building situated along High Holborn. Local transport links are within 100 yards and include an array of bus services and Chancery Lane (central line) underground station. Property comprises: Shower room, Bathroom Reception benefitting from doors to a large private terrace. Open plan kitchen. Two bedrooms. Furnished.

£575.00 Per week

£300 Per week

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

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

Dundee Court, E1W

Lothbury, Bank, EC2R

1 double bedroom apartment with angle views of the River Thames. Fitted kitchen. Bathroom. Fitted kitchen. Close to Tower Hill and St Katharine’s Dock. Secure Parking.

Warehouse converted 1 double bedroom apartment situated within this sought after development. Within easy access to the City and Docklands.

A unique opportunity to rent this 3rd Floor, 1 double bedroom luxury apartment, situated opposite the Bank of England.

Rental Price: £325 Per Week

Rental Price: £365 per week

Rental Price: £650 Per Week

St Johns Wharf, E1W

Tradewinds, Wapping, E1W

Pudding Lane, Chigwell, IG7

Fantastic opportunity to rent this spacious sub penthouse within this historic warehouse building.

Modern large spacious 1 double bedroom apartment with large reception room.

A unique opportunity has arisen to rent this Grade II listed country house within Pudding Lane formerly “Patsalls” Lane which dates back to the 15th Century.

Rental Price: £675 Per Week

Rental Price: £365 Per Week

Rental Price: £690 Per Week

Orient Wharf, Wapping, E1W

£1,250,000

Creek House, Limehouse, E14

Walkers Lodge, E14

Leamore Court, E2

River views from this two bedroom apartment in modern development. Porterage. Situated near to the amenities of the popular Narrow Street area!

Modern 2 double bedroom, 2 Bathroom spacious apartment situated close to Canary Wharf. Timber flooring.

Superb 2 bedroom, 8th floor apartment within this modern gated development. Benefiting from an en suite shower room and additional bathroom.

Price: £474,995

Price: £364,995

Price: £339,950

Manchester Road, E14

Waterman Way, E1W

Freetrade Wharf, E1W

3 Bedroom maisonette. Reception. Fitted kitchen. First floor bathroom. Own garden. Close to Island Gardens Docklands Light Railway. Easy access to Canary Wharf.

Modern studio apartment within this popular canalside development. Within easy access to Tower Hill and Tower Gateway. Approx. 15 mins to Liverpool Street

River Thames views from this delightful 2 double bedroom, 1st floor apartment. The property has been re-furbished to a good standard throughout.

Price: £279,995

Price: £199,950

Price: OIEO £550,000

2011-12-20 15:16:57

WAPPING

Sanderling Lodge E1W

St Hilda's Wharf E1W

Guide price £2,250,000 leasehold

Guide price £2,200,000 leasehold

Cinnabar Wharf E1W

Aberdeen Wharf E1W

A stunning two bedroom apartment with far reaching views across the Thames to Tower Bridge and The Shard of glass, from balconies off both the reception room and master bedroom reception room | 2 bedrooms (1 en suite) | shower room | kitchen | parking | 2 balconies

A penthouse apartment in a characterful warehouse conversion with a large roof terrace. The apartment has been modernised throughout while maintaining a host of original features reception room | 2 bedrooms (1 en suite) | shower room | kitchen | parking | roof terrace

Guide price £1,395,000 leasehold

Guide price £1,300,000 leasehold

cluttons.com

020 7488 4858 wapping@cluttons.com

2011-12-20 15:55:35

WAPPING

Aberdeen Wharf E1W

Aldgate Tower E1

This charming apartment, has been tastefully re-modernised whilst still maintaining a host of original warehouse features, set within a characterful warehouse conversion in the heart of Wapping reception room | 2 bedrooms (en suite) | shower room | kitchen | secure parking

A two bedroom apartment set on the twelfth floor of this modern development with access to a private roof terrace providing 180 degree panoramic rooftop views reception room | 2 bedrooms (1 en suite) | shower room | kitchen | balcony

Guide price £850,000 leasehold

Guide price £675,000 leasehold

Landmark West Tower E14

Chimney Court E1W

A stunning apartment with views over the River Thames and the Canary Wharf skyline. The property is finished to a high standard and benefits from access to a private residents gymnasium reception room with open-plan kitchen | bedroom | bathroom | 24hr security | residents gym

A loft style studio apartment set on the first floor of this converted warehouse with generous ceiling heights and large warehouse style windows with west-facing views over the park reception room | mezzanine bedroom | bathroom | kitchen | secure parking | buildings manager

Guide price £425,000 leasehold

Guide price £385,000 leasehold

cluttons.com

020 7488 4858 wapping@cluttons.com

IEstate

Agents stranger things have happened

New Docklands Office Opening Soon

For more information: docklands@bushells.com Or follow us on Twitter @bushells

Bushells.com

LawrenceWard_CityMag_Jan2012 21/12/2011 14:44 Page 1

newHOMES

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

Tall and Slender

The New Property Craze

Contemporary Classic Stunning New Homes

newhomes

Property Latest By Lauren Romano

SIZE ZERO HOMES

Multi-storey townhouse style properties are currently in high demand. While lateral homes can be ideal for family living, this type of interior doesn’t necessarily suit everyone, and partitioned walls are being re-introduced as home owners begin to consider the advantages that separate spaces can offer. In tall, slender properties, different floors can be

assigned to different family members, giving everyone, especially teenagers, their own space and privacy. Houses spread across several levels are generally arranged with reception rooms extending the whole way from front to back to incorporate light throughout. Moreover, lower ground floors often have separate access, ideal for staff, or to enable owners to rent out parts of the house as

WORK LIFE BALANCE More people than ever are working from home and properties which combine both living and working space are currently proving exceptionally popular. “Working patterns are changing,” says Cargerine McAllister of Stacks Property Search. “In particular more women are running their own businesses from home, often on a part time basis while they combine bringing up a family. Moreover, constantly improving technology means there are few disadvantages of a practical nature.” For people looking to start a home office, finding the right life/work space is vital. Lack of human contact, often cited as the biggest drawback of working from home, can be addressed at live/work developments where several units are often grouped together.

separate accommodation. An exemplar ‘size zero’ property has come onto the market in Westbourne Park Road. The elegant, imposing six-storey Victorian house extends to 3, 140 sq ft and has six bedrooms, four bathrooms, a walled garden and a balcony, running the width of the house which is accessed from the large sash windows of the first floor reception room. It has already attracted great interest.

PRICEY PARKING

NEWS IN BRIEF MARKET UPDATE The Jones Lang LaSalle Property Pulse predicts that UK households will become more confident as 2012 progresses and a host of difficult domestic factors, include high inflation, gradually begin to ease. Looking to the future, the report forecasts 2013 will see the housing market become more active with UK house prices set to rise by approximately three per cent. Meanwhile, with low mortgage lending expected to continue over the next few years, market activity will carry on shifting from owner-occupied to a strengthening rental sector.

A new study has revealed that a parking space is estimated to significantly increase the appeal and price tag of a property in Kensington and Chelsea and add around £95,800 to the selling value of a home. Aside from a sought after space or garage to park the car, London house prices are significantly boosted by being in the catchment area for a popular school, within close proximity to a train station and having a garden.

BACKGROUND CHECKS Landlords are being reminded to carry out checks on tenants prior to letting out properties. A standard NLA Tenant Check can include a County Court Judgement search, an ID check and references from employers. A record number of checks were performed last year, showing that landlords are becoming increasingly concerned about finding the most suitable tenants to ensure a hassle-free tenancy. According to the NLA chairman David Salusbury “Getting a proper background check done on all tenants before they move into a property is one of the most important things a landlord can do before handing over the keys.”

EAST END BOOM Districts of East London are fast becoming property hotspots. International buyers from Asia, UK city investors and second home buyers are showing increasing interest in developments in the area. The DLR and Jubilee Line have opened up otherwise detached parts of East London, which are now only a 10-20 minute journey to Canary Wharf and The City. The convenient location of new build developments in Maple Quays, Canada Water and Dalston among other locations, make these districts prime territory for buy to let or second home buyers in particular. Estate agent Barratt has seen prices in the East End increase by 12 per cent over the past 18 months.

157

newhomes

DEVELOPMENT FOCUS A Charming Prospect this re-development of a former prestigious girls’ school has been

Computer Enhanced Photograph of Camberwell Grove

given the Grade-A treatment, says Lauren Romano

he historic Mary Datchelor School is currently being given a new lease of life. A stunning and sensitive restoration of two former classroom blocks, together with a new development of Georgianstyle, two, three and four bedroom townhouses, is set to revive the school’s distinguished legacy and complement the opulent architectural heritage of the area. One of southeast London’s most sought after residential streets, Camberwell Grove is also at the heart of an attractive conservation area, something developers St George have paid particular attention to. The project as a whole demonstrates how local landmark buildings can be converted to create sustainable and distinctive character-filled residences, while the newer townhouses, built using traditional London yellow stock brick with their timber sash windows and black railings, blend seamlessly with the neighbouring period homes. Ninety properties scattered about the site encompass attractive residential units of all shapes and sizes, from bijoux apartments to palatial modern built homes arranged across numerous floors. The striking, original Victorian red-brick façade of the school building, skirted by mature trees and ornate iron railings, sits securely within well-maintained

landscaped gardens. Fusing the best in period-style features with the demands of modern living, the apartments have potential access to a convenient underground resident’s car park, communal outside areas and two nearby tennis courts, which form part of the Butterfly Tennis Club. Inside, clean-lined, sophisticated living spaces are equipped with ambiance-enhancing specialist lighting,

Interior Photography of Camberwell Grove Show Home

under floor heating and pre-wiring for audio sound systems. Custom designed kitchens with stunning composite stone worktops and integrated stainless steel appliances ensure that all the apartments are well kitted out for entertaining. The elegant townhouses are similarly high-spec; with their classical proportions, generous windows and high ceilings, the timeless elegance of the properties makes them popular with potential buyers, as does how successfully the interiors combine this enduring appeal with a contemporary twist. Designer flourishes and impressive attention to detail means gas fires and additional appliances, like integrated coffee machines and wine coolers are also provided. Several of these townhouses also come with attractive walled courtyard gardens, conservatories and even private individual garage spaces, tucked away beneath the properties. The expansive 2.1 acre development is yet another welcome addition to the surrounding SE5 postcode, which has experienced an explosion in local investment and growth in recent years. A parade of fashionable new bars and restaurants can be found a five minute stroll away, while leisurely afternoons can be spent wandering along by the Thames and soaking up the South Bank’s many cultural attractions, from the Globe Theatre to the Royal Festival Hall. The development is also well placed to explore other nearby desirable neighbourhoods, including Greenwich, Blackheath, Clapham and East Dulwich, which all boast a host of local amenities, unique boutiques and good schools. Camberwell Grove is well-connected to Central London and the City, thanks to a growing number of transport links. Nearby Denmark Hill station provides regular fast trains to Victoria, London Bridge and Blackfriars while Peckham Rye and Loughborough Junction stations are also close by. The area is expected to benefit greatly from the anticipated London Underground extension of the East London line to Denmark Hill, due to open this year. The accessibility of Gatwick, City and Heathrow airports and the Eurostar terminal at King’s Cross St Pancras also makes the location perfect for those commuting further afield for work or leisure on a regular basis.

Star PROPERTY Set within the old school building, a number of refurbished studios and apartments have been worked into the original Victorian framework; generous sized rooms, with lofty ceiling height, neutral interiors and sash windows ensure the homes are light and contemporary. The luxurious finishes of these properties include plush carpets, beautiful wooden floors and high-gloss bathrooms with wide, walk-in showers which testify to the care and attention taken in the development. Camberwell Grove homes are certainly those one would be glad to show off, and to this end specialist designed cove lighting creates atmospheric mood lit spaces, perfect for entertaining, while minimalist high quality chrome kitchens with hidden integrated appliances make hosting convenient. Other touches like the under-floor heating and built-in wardrobes with sliding mirror doors are the final elements which make each apartment comfortable, chic and practical. Prices start from £409,950 for a two bedroom apartment and £849,950 for a four bedroom townhouse.* Telephone 020 7708 5829 www.camberwell-grove.com

* price correct at time of going to press

159

newhomes

HOT PROPERTY: A Top Draw

This wonderfully refurbished two bedroom penthouse apartment situated in a Grade I Listed warehouse conversion has become available. It boasts superb features, including solid oak flooring, wooden beams and exposed brick work and is situated within one of the most sought after developments in Canary Wharf, in close proximity to the many vibrant bars, restaurants and shops of Cabot Place.

The immaculate penthouse boasts magnificent high ceilings throughout and accommodates a dining area, a sofa area and an open-plan kitchen with breakfast bar. Fitted with top of the range Gaggenau appliances, the kitchen is perfect for entertaining and there is a further utility area equipped with sink, washing machine and tumble dryer. Additionally, a mezzanine level has been added which houses

a study area and a large storage cupboard. The second reception level is reached by a brushed steel and glass staircase, where there is currently space for a baby grand piano and a second seating area. The apartment has two good sized bedrooms, two bathrooms (one as en suite to the master bedroom) and a lovely terrace offering views of the Canary Wharf skyline.

Port East Apartments, E14 ÂŁ1.2M Freehold Knight Frank Canary Wharf www.knightfrank.co.uk

020 7512 9966 161

newhomes

expert comment SALES:

LETTINGS:

Prime london is in a league of its own

Reflecting on a bright 2011 for the rental sector

SARAH SHELLEY, PARTNER AND OFFICE HEAD AT

GARY HALL, PARTNER AND LETTINGS MANAGER AT

KNIGHT FRANK IN WAPPING COMMENTS ON THE

KNIGHT FRANK IN WAPPING, COMMENTS ON THE TRENDS IN

TRENDS IN THE RESIDENTIAL SALES MARKET

THE RESIDENTIAL RENTAL MARKET

The trends in London house prices over the last few months demonstrated that the prime London property market continues to differ from the rest of the UK, something which we term a ‘multispeed’ phenomenon. In October of 2011, house prices across the UK had risen by 1.2 per cent compared to the previous month, although it was noted that the figures were down by 0.3 per cent on the quarter and remained 1.8 per cent lower than the prices recorded a year before. In contrast, prime London prices were 0.7 per cent higher in October than in September and continued to grow for the 13th consecutive month in November and December of last year. In fact, the November figures were said to represent a record high, some 38.5 per cent higher than during the slump of March 2009, which is very good news for those who have invested in luxury property in the city, as well as reassuring for those who are looking to acquire a premium home in 2012. The financial and economic difficulties in the Eurozone have only emphasised London’s position as a safe haven for investment, a perception which emerged during the time of political uncertainty in the Middle East. This situation, coupled with a continuing stream of enquiries from affluent potential buyers at our branches, is one of the aspects which have led us to forecast that this growth in the sales market will continue during 2012. However, while the overall growth between 2010 and 2011 was 12.6 per cent, it is likely that this increase will prove more modest in the forthcoming 12 months.

London’s prime rental market has remained buoyant during the past 18 months, which can be attributed to the capital’s economic revival since 2009, as well as greater restrictions on mortgage lending introduced in the wake of the credit crisis. Since then, we have seen an increase in average rents of 27 per cent and the evidence to date is that the sector continues to deliver healthy returns for landlords, with tenants having to act promptly to secure properties. Supply of property coming onto the rental market is increasing and it is going some way to meet the strong demand, which is continuing to push the rents higher. Our view is that we will continue to see rental growth, albeit at a slower pace with a rate of 4 per cent to 5 per cent per annum. This is much closer to annual earnings growth than the sharp increase we have seen recently which makes it more realistic and sustainable for the medium to long term. Applicant activity throughout our central London offices has been high. At the peak of the market (June 2011), we registered 852 new applicants looking for properties between £450pw and £5000pw. Even at the low point in December we still registered 282 new applicants, showing that demand remains strong whichever month we are in. The number of requests for prime residential rental property in London is only expected to rise over the coming year and we predict that 2012 will continue to prove very successful for the market.

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

162

FAMILY HOMES OF GRAND STYLE

Nestling amidst the perfectly preserved architecture of Camberwell’s conservation area, at Camberwell Grove, the Georgian townhouse has been recreated for the 21st century. • Easy walking distance to Denmark Hill and Peckham Rye railway stations with direct links to central London in just 12 minutes*** • Will benefit from London Underground’s extension of the East London line to Denmark Hill, due for completion in 2012 • Enviable location: bars, restaurants cafés and high street stores within easy walking distance • State of the art open plan kitchen and conservatory to selected plots • Spectacular reception and family rooms on first floor • Level 3 devoted to a luxurious master suite • Underground car parking** • Adjacent to two tennis courts available through membership of the Butterfly Tennis Club****

Four bedroom townhouses from £849,950 - £1,725,000* Denmark Hill

Peckham Rye

Queens Road Peckham

South Bermondsey

2 mins

6 mins

7 mins

London Bridge

12 mins total duration **

020 7708 5829

Please contact us on Or email camberwellgrovesales@stgeorgesl.com www.camberwell-grove.com

Show Home open daily 10am – 6pm Camberwell Grove, Camberwell, London SE5 8RD

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

*Price correct at time of going to press. **Available at an additional cost ***Times approximate only. See tfl.gov.uk ****Visit butterflytennis.com. Interior photography of Camberwell Grove.

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19/12/2011 09:29

HIRSH L O N D O N

SNOWFLAKE COLLECTION HANDMADE IN PLATINUM

Where every piece is a work of art www.hirshlondon.com

WEST END 56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE W1J 0QN - T +44 (0)20 7499 6814 - CITY 9 HATTON GARDEN EC1N 8AH - T +44 (0)20 7831 3333

CanaryWharfDec11.indd 1

01/11/2011 14:34