MAY 2013 10
COVER IMAGE: Courtesy of Brooks Brothers, p. 72
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62
42
74
56
feature
12 GRAND THEFT
The Bank of England may have extensive security but KRIS HOLLINGTON reveals the story behind one of the biggest heists of all time
21 THE GAME OF THE NAME
Attention grabbing brand names and shock advertising can transform a start-up’s fortunes, argues DANIEL ENGELSMAN
BUSINESS
42
EYE OF THE STORM
46
GOING UP
PERRY M ANDERSON explores how the current economic climate in the UK has created unexpected opportunities for investors As inflation rises, and money gets cheaper, you’ll need ever more inventive ways to stay ahead of the game, writes ANDY ROSENBAUM
SPORT
62
RETURNING TO THE WAVES
RICHARD BROWN hears how The Venture Cup, the most prestigious powerboat race in the world, is making waves in London
FASHION
74 POWER PLAY
The weather is getting warmer but the City’s style is staying cool
Food & DRINK
97
A GREAT TRADITION
CHRIS MURRAY toasts the legacy of the cocktail bar
TRAVEL
104
SECOND BITE OF THE BIG APPLE
RICHARD BROWN revisits New York and unapologetically fails to explore the path less travelled
regulars 25 Watches + Jewellery
71 fashion
42 business
92 food & drink
53 Motoring
101 travel
61 sport
113 Property
P L E A S E E N J OY O U R C H A M PA G N E R E S P O N S I B LY DRINKAWARE .CO.UK
the
w-list
Di Davidson-Amadi highlights the events not to miss in May. From fast cars and flowers to rock stars and politicians, prepare for a month buzzing with art and expression
RUNWILD M
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Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood
Managing Editor emma johnson
Deputy Editor Richard Brown
Motoring Editor Matthew Carter
Collection Editor annabel harrison
Property Editor Gabrielle Lane
Editorial Assistant daniel engelsman
Features Writer aimee latimer
WHat: THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW
For the centenary year of the most famous horticultural exhibition in the world, RHS plan on pulling out all the stops to wow the gathering of green-fingered onlookers who will be descending on the grounds of the M&G Centenary Garden on 21 – 25 May. As well as admiring the botanical designers and blossoming plots, attendees can also look forward to a flower-themed opera concert. rhs.org.uk
Why:
ERIC CLAPTON AT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL
Though he’s been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Eric Clapton, CBE, admits to not having played much guitar in recent times and also claims that this tour shall be his last. We’re sure he hasn’t lost his touch, even if his joie de vivre for the hectic lifestyle is waning. royalalberthall.com
Senior Designer Sarah Connell
Brand Consistency
WHO: THATCHERISTIC
The life and work of late Baroness Margaret Thatcher left an indelible imprint on the history of Great Britain. Margaret Thatcher has been immortalised by ten artists, including this image by Cane Griffiths, in an exhibition of a mixture of alternative and political cutting portraits of the late baroness on show at London’s Gallery Different. artbelow.org.uk
General Manager Fiona Fenwick
Production
Hugo Wheatley ALEX POWELL
Property Director Samantha Ratcliffe
Head of Finance Elton Hopkins
Managing Director Eren Ellwood
7 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London, E14 4JB
When: BANK HOLIDAY
T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045
The first Monday of May is a bank holiday. Traditionally, the annual date ushers in the summer season and hails from centuries ago. In more recent times, it has been a day off for appreciative workers who need that extra day of respite.
www.rwmg.co.uk
WHERE: MONACO GRAND PRIX
On 23 May, the 71st Monaco Grand Prix commences; a few months before that, the tempestuous race for tickets for the best viewing areas of the Circuit de Monaco began, and every F1 aficionado is hoping for a good finish. monaco-grand-prix.com WHY: nito / Shutterstock.com WHAT: chris87 / Shutterstock.com
Hiren Chandarana Laddawan Juhong
Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscriptions: A free online subscription service is available for Canary Wharf Magazine. Visit the subscriptions page on our website. www.rwmg.co.uk/subscribe
Just a couple of hours from home. And yet a world away.
w w w. a u s t r i a . i n f o
Yo u r p e r s o n a l H o l i d a y I n f o r m a t i o n L i n e : 0845 101 1818 (calls charged at local rates)
editor’s letter
may “What is success? I think it is a mixture of having a flair for the thing that you are doing; and knowing that it is not enough, that you have got to have hard work and a certain sense of purpose.” - Margaret Thatcher The Iron Lady has been very much in our thoughts this month, as she undoubtedly has been in everyone’s; and there is plenty of debate to be had about her passing, her politics and her impact – as David Cameron said during parliamentary tributes to her: “She certainly did not shy from the fight – and that led to arguments, to conflict, yes: even to division.” The City is perhaps the place that will mourn Thatcher’s passing the most – as one of the major financial powers today, the City enjoys a global position that is testament to her commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to make money if they want to, and, more importantly, that they can actually enjoy making it. In our tribute to her on p. 10 we take a look at the aftermath of the news of her death on 8 April and consider how London’s financial heart will remember her. While we recognise all Thatcher achieved to ensure the City is the financial stronghold it remains today, it’s fascinating to look back at a time when it had a different sort of focus. On p. 16 Geoff Marshall takes us through the City’s illustrious beginnings as an industrial hub, tracing the history of our City’s waterworks, Royal Mint, power stations and breweries. And, as we’ve got powerful women on our minds, our fashion shoot channels ideas of power dressing for both men and women; think angular lines, darker tones and trouser suits for the girls, and pastel shades, silk jackets and plush ties for the boys (p. 74). Elsewhere we look at whether the cloud of economic problems facing the UK economy recently has a silver lining (p. 42); consider alternative ways to protect your investments from inflation (p. 46); and look at how the Bank of England was once robbed to the tune of a staggering £300 million in a heist that had all the hallmarks of the best cops and robbers movies coupled with some characters who wouldn’t be out of place in Lock, Stock, & Two Smoking Barrels (p. 12) And, if this isn’t enough thrills and spills for you, Richard Brown previews the most dramatic and exciting competition on water – powerboat racing – once big enough to rival F1. Find out more on p. 62. Enjoy the May bank holiday…
Emma Johnson Editor
may 2013 THE CITY 9
Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren’t. - Margaret Thatcher
Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher stands with her arms raised at a Conservative Party conference in Brighton. The IRA tried to assassinate her with a bomb earlier in the day. (Š Bettmann/CORBIS, 12 October 1984)
tribute
Margaret Thatcher 1925-2013 The news of Margaret Thatcher’s death on 8 April was initially met with the standard tributes expected when a well-known figure dies; but it was quickly, and perhaps unexpectedly, followed with much gnashing of teeth, violent protests and angry debate. Emma Johnson looks at how London’s financial world will remember Margaret Thatcher
I
t is often said that when the length of your life is written out – in the case of Thatcher ‘1925 – 2013’, that the important thing is not your birth or your death, but that small dash inbetween – the sum total of your life. How you fill that gap is what defines you; and how Thatcher filled that gap is most certainly what has defined her. Just as in life, Margaret Thatcher has divided opinion in death. Minutes after her passing was announced, politicians, famous figures, journalists, and even clueless boy-band members, scrambled to share their two cents worth via the mediums of Twitter, tabloid front pages and blogs; eulogising her passing with appropriate commentary; while world leaders, such as David Cameron and Barack Obama released statements bursting with the kind of grand rhetoric only reserved for a rare few at their death. Obama talked of her championing of “freedom and liberty”, while Cameron declared her, “a great leader, a great prime minister and a great Briton.” As Cameron cancelled his appointments in Europe and flew home, details of her (all but) state funeral plans began to emerge – including the news that the taxpayer would pick up the bill. It was then that the voices of dissent began to shout in earnest, and the day culminated in (literally) riotous celebrations in Brixton, Bristol and Liverpool, which involved so-called ‘death parties’ and reports of burning effigies. In the days to follow, sales of The Wizard of Oz song ‘Ding Dong the Witch is Dead’ threaten to reach Number 1 in the charts, forcing the BBC to make a tough decision about whether to play it if it did achieve the top spot. The strong reaction to her death was unsurprising; she herself noted that she wanted to be a politician not of ‘consensus’ but ‘conviction’. And so dissenters and objections to her politics were to be expected, but perhaps what was surprising was the strength of feeling generated with her passing. While some raged about those ‘speaking ill of the dead’, others hit back saying that those in a position of extreme political power must expect their decisions and character to be fair game for criticism, even in death. “That one should not speak ill of the dead is arguably appropriate when a private person dies, but it is wildly inappropriate for the death of a controversial public figure, particularly one who wielded significant influence and political power,” said Glenn Greenwald writing for The Guardian on the day of her death. And so in turn, commentary turned to focusing on the specifics of her politics, where her influence has been most strongly felt. The fact she made a difference seems indisputable, but whether this was a difference for good or bad has become the subject of the discourse. In the City, the overall feeling was one of gratitude for what
she achieved in the business world. In his editorial the day after her death, Allister Heath, the editor of City AM, acknowledged that: “Her policies were painful – shutting down unsustainable firms and improving productivity levels led to a surge in unemployment, which has remained with us ever since.” But he went on to state how her conviction that growth and wealth comes from business not from government saw not only the return of the City to a position of global dominance, but heralded a new dawn for its place in the world as a financial powerhouse. “She was a superb prime minister, the best peacetime leader of the 20th century… Thatcher saved Britain from economic and cultural catastrophe.” The City that we work in today was transformed by her policies, the deregulation of the stock market – or the Big Bang – allowed a new breed of workers into the City, changing the ‘old boy’ culture for one that encouraged entrepreneurship; the elite gentry made way for young men from a variety of backgrounds who flooded into the
“It is not the creation of wealth that is wrong, but the love of money for its own sake” City, bringing with them a fresh energy for business; the development of Canary Wharf began, bringing a second physical financial centre to London; and our economy grew and flourished, ensuring Britain’s position as a global financial capital. The selling of state-controlled industries gave rise to the success of companies such as BA and Jaguar Cars, providing a platform for the highest levels of business acumen and innovation to compete in a global market place; and it was in this environment that people like Richard Branson began to prosper. Her policies without question sent out the message that wanting to make money was not immoral; that in fact, it is something to work hard for, a symbol of personal success and achievement, a message which provided the impetus for our economy to boom and flourish. The City as we know it, would not be what it is today without her. And so, how will we remember her? As the powerhouse who ‘made Britain great again’? As the first woman to lead our country? As a milksnatching, community-destroying bully? As the brave prime minster who led us to victory in the Falklands? As a leader with the strength and courage of her convictions to follow through, no matter what the cost? As the survivor of an IRA assassination attempt? As an advocate of the philosophy that a hand up is better than a hand out? Perhaps all these things and more. However we remember her, one thing is for certain: it is impossible to forget her. .
may 2013 THE CITY 11
Grand
Theft
Despite constant and extensive security measures, The Bank of England is not a completely impenetrable force. Kris Hollington lifts the lid on one of the most extraordinary heists of the 20th century
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O
n 4 January 1990, a City of London messenger arrived at the Bank of England only to find that he’d dropped the £4 million in bearer bonds he’d been carrying somewhere along the way; a hair-whitening moment if ever there was one. Bearer bonds, cheques drawn mainly from banks and the government, are used to transfer huge sums of money. They all contain the legend: “promise to pay the bearer on demand”, and can be treated just like cash. In 1990, an estimated £30 billion was carried in bearer bonds by messengers (mostly elderly men, all unarmed and unescorted) to and fro across the Square Mile each day. Fortunately, in this instance, a member of the public found the £4 million bonds and handed them in. But the story spread through London and a small coterie of what detectives call ‘core-nominals’ (that’s Mr. Bigs to you and me) had a brainwave of epic proportions. On 2 May 1990, John Goddard, a 58-yearold messenger with money broker Sheppards, left the Bank of England with almost £300 million bearer bonds in a briefcase. As he turned into Nicholas Lane (which runs between Lombard Street and King William Street, about 200 metres from the Bank of England) a man in his late twenties stepped out from the shadows, placed a knife against Goddard’s throat and relieved him of his briefcase and wallet. The Times reported that the robbery had been carried out by an amateur and, as such, the bonds would be impossible to cash. But the thief had simply made the mugging look opportunistic. It had been planned to the last detail. The gang responsible wanted everyone to think this was a simple mugging so that the Bank would not cancel the bonds (and therefore lose the money) and let the City of London police, based in nearby Wood Street, find the mugger and, all being well, the bonds. While the police quickly formed a 40-strong team and got to work bending informants’ ears, the gang set about smuggling the bonds to a dodgy broker in Switzerland. For some reason (we know not what) the deal fell apart, so the gang reached out to UK con men and found help in the guise of Keith Cheeseman (a Bethnal Green lad who had once managed to fraudulently sign George Best for non-league Dunstable United – but that’s another story). Cheeseman took some of the bonds to a Texan, Mark Osborne, who said he could cash them in with the New York Mafia, who needed to launder the proceeds of a huge drugs deal. Osborne met with Mafia contact Tony Dipino, in a bar in downtown Manhattan and handed over ten certificates worth £10 million. The deal done, ‘Tony’ (an undercover agent for the FBI) promptly arrested Osborne,
may 2013 THE CITY 13
feature
who then turned supergrass. The FBI let Osborne go and, on their orders he pretended the deal had gone ahead. Then Osborne vanished. Five days later he turned up in the boot of a car with two bullets in the back of his head. It seemed as though someone besides Osborne had turned informant, as the City of London police had remarkable success in tracing the bonds, as the gang – with increasing desperation – tried to get rid of them. A routine (ahem) bag check at Heathrow set a record for customs when £77 million in undeclared bearer bonds was recovered. Another £80 million was seized in Cyprus.
it was Cheeseman and the story made it into a newspaper, read by Thomas, who believed he would be next. A few nights later, on 23 December 1990, Thomas went out on a massive bender, drinking Jack Daniels and taking multiple lines of cocaine, before returning to the flat he shared with his half-sister. At 5am his half-sister heard a gunshot and found Thomas dying on the bedroom floor, a revolver by his side. The police concluded suicide but Thomas’s friends and family weren’t so sure. It turned out that Cheeseman was actually very much alive and well in Tenerife – where he was recaptured and extradited to the US and sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison. He claimed he’d fled because he feared a Mafia godfather had put a contract out on him. Another four people were charged with handling the bonds, but on the day their trials were due to start, the Crown offered no evidence. The reason why they dropped the case remains a mystery. The Central Moneymarkets Office was quickly established after the mugging so that the £30 billion whizzing around the City every day was able to do so via wires instead of pieces of paper. Better late than never.
The FBI let Mark Osborne go; on their orders he pretended the deal had gone ahead. Then Osborne vanished Four months after the mugging, in September 1990, Anthony Gallagher was caught with £71 million of the stolen bonds as he left Ireland for Peru, where the IRA had planned to meet with Colombian drug lords to exchange them for cash and weapons. Cheeseman was arrested at his luxury flat in the Barbican, in November 1990, but the con man quickly jumped bail and vanished. The mugger was eventually revealed to be 28-yearold Patrick Thomas, a bank robber and drug dealer. While Cheeseman was on the run, a body was found in some woodland with its hands and head cut off. Police thought
14 THE CITY may 2013
Kris Hollington is a freelance journalist and author of Criminal London: A Sightseers Guide to the Capital of Crime, £10.99, published by Aurum Press. All images are provided by professional photographer, and Kris’s wife, Nina Hollington.
www.bachet.fr
This page: Early image of Bankside Power Station Opposite page: Bankside Power Station in the 1960s
An
industrial revolution
The City might be the financial centre of London, but it was once also an industrial hub, boasting the likes of the Royal Mint, an early water works and several breweries. Geoff Marshall looks back in time
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t’s true that the great majority of London’s industries were sited outside the Square Mile – after all, the City has always been the great trading centre where money was made and lost. But money was also literally made nearby. In 1300, The Royal Mint was transferred to the Tower of London, and between 1699 and 1727 the eminent scientist Sir Isaac Newton was Master of the Mint, evidently with great success: “The ability, the industry and the strict uprightness of the great philosopher speedily produced a complete revolution throughout the department under his direction”, it was reported. Advances in machinery and lack of space at the Tower later prompted a move across the road to a building in East Smithfield, designed by the “Surveyor to the Mint” James Johnson and completed by his successor Sir Robert Smirke. East Smithfield closed in 1975 and coins are now minted in Llantrisant, South Wales.
Tyburn and conveyed it, by the force of gravity, to Cheapside in the City. The pure spring water, in earthenware or lead pipes, was conveyed from what is now Stratford Place, near Bond Street Underground, via Constitution Hill, Trafalgar Square, and over the Fleet River to Cheapside, a distance of about three miles. At Cheapside, it was the job of water carriers, or ‘cobs’ as they were familiarly known, to bring water in wooden buckets slung over their shoulders, to people’s houses. Water was also taken from the River Thames via an early water works at Broken Wharf (an office building still bears its name) in
Perhaps the biggest type of industry in the City was water
Water Perhaps the biggest type of industry in the City was water. The City was where all Londoners lived in the Middle Ages, and they would have needed water, initially supplied from spring water by conduits. In 1237, the first conduit, the Great Conduit, took water from the River
Upper Thames Street, downstream of Blackfriars. Mining engineer Bevis Bulmer used a chain pump driven by horses to raise river water to about 120 feet in a wooden tower. Then in 1582 Dutch engineer Peter Morris opened the London Bridge Water Works. He relied upon the restricted flow of water as it passed beneath the old medieval bridge, which had 25 arches, with protective coverings on the piers. These had the effect of reducing the flow of the Thames and so provided the means for Morris to get a head of water with a water
may 2013 THE CITY 17
wheel which he constructed in the first arch of the bridge. In about 1600, it was proposed that water should be taken from the springs at Amwell and Chadwell in Hertfordshire and fed to London. So was born Hugh Myddelton’s New River Company, incorporated by Royal Charter in 1619; its seal showed rain flowing from an open hand onto the City of London with the inscription ‘Et plui superunam civitatem’ – ‘And I rain upon one city’. The river terminated in Islington ‘at an open idell poole’ which became known as the Round Pond. Here it was conveyed to Londoners’ homes in pipes made from hollowed-out elm trees.
BEER Despite these considerable advances in industry and a comprehensive network of water pipes, to many Londoners, beer was more important (and safer) than water. There were hundreds of breweries in London; with Whitbread being the best known in the City. In the mid-1700s, Samuel Whitbread noticed a disused brewery in Chiswell Street, which he promptly bought and proceeded to build a new brewery for the mass production of porter. Regulations to curb the consumption of gin boosted sales of porter – beer was considered a healthy drink – and by 1758, Whitbread’s was the largest brewery in London. Samuel Whitbread was a man of high morals. He read the scriptures every day, observed the Sabbath, supported the anti-slavery movement and the work of prison reformer, John Howard.
power As it grew, the City needed a reliable energy supply, and it was here that London forged the way for the future of the utilities industry – the first electricity power station in the world was in the City at 57 Holborn Viaduct. In 1882, Thomas Edison offered to light the viaduct free of charge for three months and also to supply private consumers. Current at 100v dc was supplied from an Edison dynamo driven by a steam engine, along the route was the City Temple, the first church to be lit by electricity. Later the City was supplied by an early Bankside Power Station with the formation of the City of London Electric Lighting Company, registered in July 1891 with capital of £800,000. By 1900, Bankside began to provide power to the newspaper industry in Fleet Street. Previously the newspaper owners had generated their own power and they insisted that Bankside should provide security of supply, ‘for the papers must come out on time’. In the early days of operation it was difficult to cater for rapidly changing demands for power. London fogs were an ever-present headache. Within a few minutes of the onset of a London ‘pea souper’, demand for power could rise dramatically and then equally quickly fall again when the fog lifted. The company tried to get prior knowledge of the coming of fogs by instigating a policy of having a look-out posted high up on an observation platform around one of the chimneys. After the Second World War, the shortage of power reached crisis proportions and permission was granted to build a new station,
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Far left: Illustration of a water carrier, courtesy of Thames Water plc Centre: The Royal Mint, courtesy of Tower Hamlets Local History Library Top right: London Bridge with Water Works, courtesy of Thames Water plc Below: Water Conduit at Cheapside, courtesy of Thames Water plc
despite objections that the power station would destroy the view of St Paul’s Cathedral. Luckily, fashions change, and it is now generally recognised that Bankside Power Station – reborn in recent years as Tate Modern – is a fine building and an integral part of London’s architectural heritage, linked to St Paul’s by the Millennium Bridge.
communications & PRINT In the mid 1840s, Samuel Morse in the USA and Cooke and Wheatstone in the UK invented the electrical telegraph, and it soon came to London. Wires were strung between metal masts and over London’s rooftops, and signals were sent by Morse code. There were some objections to the new scheme – the Drapers’ Company complained about them passing over their hall, insisting that they, “had the freehold from the centre of the earth to the canopy of heaven,” – but they relented when offered 2s 6d rent. Others objected that “the magnified linen posts and clothes lines render hideous our most public and best constructed streets, dwarfing the apparent altitude of some of our finest architectural elevations”. Printing has always been associated with the City. It began with Wynkyn de Worde, William Caxton’s assistant, who moved in 1500 to the Sunne in Fleet Street, so beginning that street’s long association with the printing trade. There were many others and it was a risky business – in the reign of the tudor Queen Mary, John Day fell foul of the law, was arrested and clapped in the Tower “for pryntyng noythy (naughty) bokes”. In similar vein, Robert Barker printed a copy of the ‘Authorised Version’ of the Bible but omitted to include the word “not” in the seventh Commandment – thus in all innocence accidentally encouraging his readers to commit adultery. The book became known as the “Wicked Bible”, and for his error Barker was fined the huge sum of £300.
To many Londoners, beer, however, was more important (and safer) than water
Geoff Marshall is the author of London’s Industrial Heritage, £16.99, The History Press, out now
may 2013 THE CITY 19
feature
THE GAME OF THE NAME
In a fiercely competitive market, new products with a punchy name or melodious slogan are more memorable than a powerful image and therefore more likely to succeed, argues DANIEL ENGELSMAN
S
wivelling on your ergonomic office chair in front of your computer screen, reclining in the dip of your TV-room sofa or simply crossing the street, their influence is inevitable: brand names, glossy smiles and catchy slogans are everywhere and from time to time, some of them are bound to stand out. Television has given us some great campaigns in recent years. The memorable ones often deliver the joy of escapism and a fleeting interval of nostalgia. The Mill’s multi-coloured bouncing Balls for Sony Bravia, which was a sensation at the time, as well as the recent campaign for Guinness, with the brave little cloud that is ‘Made of More’ are both cherished favourites of mine, to name but a few. Alternate advertisements that stubbornly play on our grey matter are those that are primarily intended to
shock, even though they may also indirectly entertain. Shock advertising or ‘shockvertising’ is commonly utilised in government campaigns and sets out to raise consciousness of abusive behaviour, drunk-driving awareness and pushes addicts to kick their fateful smoking habit. Sickening people is enough but the real innovation
Memorable adverts deliver the joy of escapism and ingenuity transpires when shock advertising is judiciously employed in the consumer sector. Grotesque and sexual images play on our evolutionary and biological stimuli, triggering in us a revulsion or arousal; a frightfully easy method to alarm us and seize our attention for more than a few seconds. Controversial adverts exist knowingly and are intended to evoke such an emotional response.
may 2013 THE CITY 21
Image copyright (above and right): The Mill
Where provocation appears, there is bound to be an offended party that calls for censorship. The Opium campaign by YSL featuring a nude Sophie Dahl was the eighth most complained about advertisement of all time but it proved that there really is no such thing as bad publicity. The same goes for many of the Benetton advertisements, whose politically-oriented messages are an effort to minimise hatred and prejudices of all forms, in addition to just selling clothes. French Connection’s tongue-in-cheek FCUK campaign from almost a decade ago was a fortunate mistake that was borne out of international email interactions when it appeared that the UK domain was reminiscent of an obscenity. As a very young teenager, I myself was proud to own one of those T-shirts even if I didn’t fully understand the connotations, proving the reach of powerful branding. According to winesandvines.com, the highest selling new table wine brand of 2012 was Skinnygirl and among the top 10 were also Acronym (4), Fancy Pants (6), Flirt (9) and Ooh La La (10). It is apparent that words still matter and this is especially true with edibles and beverages. In an economy under strain, newcomers are forced to think outside the box and come up with ways to keep their brands memorable and, even better, talked about. I asked Jonnie Shearer, founder of Pussy Drinks Ltd, about the growth of the brand and the way in which he decided to play the name game. Jonnie was a young and aspiring entrepreneur, who,
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The drink’s pure; it’s your mind that’s the problem... whilst at university, came up with a catchy new name that he knew he absolutely had to put to use. By itself, it means nothing and has been used throughout time in the English language and appeared in popular media with James Bond’s Pussy Galore and the chortle-inducing complaints of Mrs. Slocombe in Are You Being Served? But there’s really nothing new to it. The idea to use Pussy as a brand name came to Jonnie when he recognised that Virgin was somewhat risqué when it first emerged in the late 1980s. Jonnie disliked the taste of Red Bull and recognised that people were shifting towards more natural alternatives, so set about creating a 100 per cent natural energy drink that tasted and looked great, with a name that was going to get it noticed and picked up off the shelves. The image is premium and stylish – obviously there’s the irreverence and the fun side of it too. The slogan is ‘the drink’s pure; it’s your mind that’s the problem.’ According to Jonnie, anything else about it is purely coincidental. The slogan comes from Trevor Beattie – a creative guru who was involved in the FCUK branding. When it was launched, the social media networks went wild for the billboards and one image even racked up 1.3 million comments. Pussy now sells in the vicinity of a half a million cans a month and that figure is steadily increasing. Surprisingly, there are a lot of pensioners buying it in supermarkets, which Jonnie finds very interesting. The
clubbing scene is currently rather large and accounts for around 10 per cent of Pussy’s sales. Given that it mixes well with everything, it also allows bars to up-sell their spirits. The core market is 18-30-year-olds with an equal gender split, and although the drink is priced a little more than its competitors, the ingredients are valued at three or four times that of an ordinary energy drink, rendering it comparatively great value. Jonnie has achieved his ambitions in that it is 100 per cent natural and tastes like nothing on the market. The beverage many ingredients include natural juices, natural herb botanicals and natural flavourings, and is the product of seven to eight years of hard work. The future looks bright as the growth remains steady – around 40 per cent per annum – Holly Branson now sits on the board, and the brand has backing from Virgin. Jonnie hopes to launch Pussy in the US this summer and is hopeful to attain full distribution within two or three years. It just goes to show that a great deal of hard work, a unique product and a little ingenuity can go a long way in a brutally competitive consumer market. The brilliance of the name is its simplicity and that is one of the aspects that prevents it from being easily forgotten. If you make any lewd associations, then it is you, the consumer, who has the dirty mind. pussydrinks.com
may 2013 THE CITY 23
RUN WILDbracelet london_UK 13/04/12 09.37 Pagina 2
From the Honeycomb Eternelle Ring Collection
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collection
REPORT
Gemfields brand amabassador Mila Kunis wearing the Fabergé Romanov necklace, POA
The Green
Light
International gemstone producer Gemfields is leading the way in the world of jewellery design by inspiring designers to create modern jewellery using precious stones
C
oloured gemstones have often been deemed the poorer relations of diamonds. However, we believe this is soon to change, thanks to Gemfields’ collaboration with 36 leading jewellery designers, all chosen to demonstrate the beauty of coloured gems. Chinese influences were prevalent in the ruby pieces by Wendy Yue and Dickson Yewn, while Stephen Webster and Shaun Leane brought a characteristically dangerous edge to their emerald jewels. As well as showcasing the versatility of the gemstones,
the pieces also drew attention to the issue of ethical responsibility involved when sourcing and owning gemstones. Gemfields has always been committed to transparency, something which newly-appointed Brand Ambassador Mila Kunis is also keen to stress: “It’s a real luxury to own jewellery and gemstones… Given that, I think it’s important to pay attention to what you’re wearing and where it came from.” By changing current attitudes towards coloured stones, Gemfields has cast a new ray of light on contemporary jewellery design. gemfields.co.uk
news
something old Jeweller dealers tell us what to look out for when buying vintage jewellery 1. Opt for signed pieces by major designers (i.e. Cartier orTiffany & Co. ) 2. Try to spot the next big thing; natural pearls went up in value dramatically five years ago, while Mediterranean coral is starting to increase in value.
Vanity Fair
‘Peacocking’ has become a popular term in contemporary culture to describe someone who is a strutting show-off. In myths and legends, however, peacocks are depicted as noble, beautiful creatures that bring good luck and fortune. Graff’s peacock diamond brooch, recently unveiled at The European Fine Art Foundation (TEFAF) exhibition in Maastricht, shows the bird in all its glory; its feathers are adorned with exquisite coloured diamonds fanning out in true ceremonial style. At the heart of the brooch sits a 20.02-carat fancy deep-blue, pear-shape diamond, one of the rarest blue diamonds in the world. This can be detached and worn separately from the brooch. It comes as no surprise that this is one of Graff’s most valuable pieces, worth an astounding £66 million, reinforcing the company’s dominance in the diamond industry. graffdiamonds.com
jewellery Jewels, gems, pearls and diamonds; the essential components of any lady’s jewellery collection
Cutting Edge Miriam Salat launched her namesake collection of resin, sterling silver and 18-karat gold vermeil in 2010. Her S/S13 pieces are once again inspired by the designer’s love of travel and culture
“The Miriam Salat woman is the new gyp-set [gypsy + jetsetter]. Adventurous and free-spirited, she is a bon-vivant who travels off the beaten path. Whether shopping in a Moroccan souk or exploring the ancient temples of Bhutan, she is always distinctive, always put together and never loses Above: Evil Eye navy resin ring, £199 Right: Navy resin Art Deco earrings, £219 her impeccable chic” Miriam Salat, available at Harrods 26 THE CITY may 2013
3. Buy from an established dealer with a good reputation. Look for signs of membership of one of the two trade associations (BADA and LAPADA). 4. Buy jewellery not only because you love it but also to increase your chances of making a sound investment. 5. Check that the piece hasn’t had any major repairs or the stones replaced. 6. Ask if the stones have been ‘heat treated’. ‘Natural’ stones will always be worth more. 7. Invest in pieces with both wearability and style. Olympia International Fine Art & Antiques Fair, 6-16 June, olympia-art-antiques.com
True Colours Jewellery designer Kiki McDonough is not afraid of colour. In fact, her signature trademark is using semi-precious stones in an array of bold and daring colours, making her a pioneer in modern fine jewellery design. These pretty interchangeable drop earrings by Kiki McDonough come in citrine, blue topaz, amethyst, green amethyst and lemon quartz so you can now pick and choose your stones in various cuts, shapes and colours, an easier and more efficient way to buy coloured jewellery this spring. kiki.co.uk
Five of this year’s debuts by A. Lange & Söhne (from left): 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar, 1815 Up/Down, Saxonia Annual Calendar, Grand Lange 1 and Grand Lange 1 ‘Lumen’.
Lange’s
Legacy
Established in Glashütte in 1845, the name defined German watchmaking for more than a century. 168 years later, having survived two World Wars, disbandment and expropriation, A. Lange & Söhne has re-established its position at the top of the watchmaking hierarchy. RICHARD BROWN speaks to company CEO Wilhelm Schmid, the man charged with the task of keeping it there
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Inside the movement L095. 2 of the Grand Lange 1 Lumen All images courtesy of Lange Uhren GmbH
ew brands have the ability to unite watch enthusiasts in near universal adulation. Rolex is perhaps one, Patek Philippe the obvious other. The trouble with the former is that when you produce more than a million units a year, it’s hard to continue peddling the notion of exclusivity; unfortunate for the latter is that when your creations command the highest prices in the industry, both at auction and retail – whether justifiably so or not – discourse has a tendency to centre on money rather than mechanical mastery. Step in A. Lange & Söhne, a brand which, as purveyor of some of the world’s best performing, and arguably best looking, timepieces – themselves produced in numbers still loyal to the word ‘exclusive’ – occupies a hallowed ground within the watchmaking world. To discuss the value of an A. Lange & Söhne, or a ‘Lange’ for short, is to talk not about money but about aestheticism and craftsmanship. So revered, in fact, is Lange in the mind of Philippe Dufour (of ex-Jaeger-LeCoultre and Audemars Piguet status) that the nowindependent watchmaker considers the brand practically peerless. “Take ten movements out of the current range of any contemporary brand”, he said, speaking to watch magazine Revolution, “put them next to a Lange movement, and comment honestly on what you see. That is the best way to judge — by examining the truth.”
COLLECTION
The Grand Lange 1
The truth of the matter is that A. Lange & Söhne possesses something every watch manufacturer wishes it did: genuine authenticity. As a firm whose roots lie 168 years in the past, and as a company that continues to make watches by hand in tiny numbers in small workshops at the base of sleepy, snowycovered mountains, A. Lange & Söhne is the genuine article, the real McCoy, a brand manager’s dream. Still presided over by the ancestors of its founding fathers, it’s a brand with a human story to tell; something that no amount of money or PR-spin can buy. This story began in 1845 in the then remote town of Glashütte, near Dresden, East Germany. In the December of that year, Ferdinand Adolph Lange set up the first production pocket-watch workshop, aiming to turn 15 apprentices into accomplished watchmakers. Under Ferdinand, the man also responsible for introducing the metric system to watchmaking, and his sons Emil and Richard, Lange garnered a reputation for producing some of the world’s finest timepieces. One hundred years after the company’s formation, and the firm’s main production building lies in ruins, having been destroyed by Allied bombs. Three years later, the company’s assets are seized and expropriated by the new communist regime. The name A. Lange & Söhne is about to pass into legend. Had it not been for the determined endeavours of one Walter Lange four decades later, the story may have ended there. Luckily, for anyone interested in the instruments we use to measure time, it didn’t. In November 1989, following the collapse of the East German government, the Berlin wall came down and two Germanys became one. For Walter, great-grandson of Ferdinand Adolph, the reunification of Germany presented an opportunity he’d waited his adult life to materialise. Armed with little more than an unfaltering ambition to once again make the best watches in the world, and a friend in the name of industry expert Günter Blümlein, he re-established the Saxon company and set forth in the image of his forebears. “The example given by his courageous ancestors had taught Walter Lange and co-founder Blümlein that, even under extreme conditions, with a clear goal in sight and by planning every step carefully, it is possible to establish a company and guide it to
As a firm whose roots lie 168 years in the past, A. Lange & Söhne is the genuine article
Walter Lange with the bust of his great-grandfather
Historic headquarter of A. Lange & Söhne in Glashütte, c.1920
1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar
may 2013 THE CITY 29
collection The Lange 1 Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar in platinum
success,” says Lange’s present-day CEO Wilhelm Schmid. “Walter and Günter are credited with reviving the A. Lange & Söhne brand after a hiatus of 40 years by supplying a convincing answer to the question of what a Lange wristwatch should look like at the end of the 20th century.” That answer was presented in 1994 in the shape of four highly sophisticated timepieces: the Lange 1, the Saxonia, the Arkade and the Richard Lange Tourbillon Pour le Mérite. “For almost four years we had worked hard, often under extremely difficult conditions,” explains Walter in his memoirs, The Revival of Time. “We had built the production areas, renovated a building, developed technology, recruited new technical personnel… We had developed four new watches under enormous pressure.” Walter will never forget showing his collection for the first time. “They lay on the presentation table under the critical eyes of the 12 most reputable jewellers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. I am convinced I will never experience something like that again. Normally, dealers order watches discreetly, cool calculators as they are, as they don’t like the competition to be able to see their hands. But due to the fact we only had 123 watches to offer them at this time, they put their usual reserve aside. Their opinion was euphoric and they ordered the watches openly. And the jewellers ordered as many pieces as we could give them… Since there was no way of dividing 123 watches evenly by 12, the last pieces had to find their new owners by chance – the shorter end of a matchstick finally pointed to the new direction a Tourbillon would be taking.” Via an unswerving dedication to realising the aim on which it was re-founded, and with the assistance of several Swiss watch manufacturers, including IWC and Jaeger-LeCoultre, A. Lange & Söhne was back in business. Nearly 20 years on, thanks to the seminal success of watches like the trailblazing Datograph of 1999 and the trilogy of watches launched to commemorate the brand’s 165 year anniversary in 2010 (165 Years – Homage to F. A. Lange),
30 THE CITY may 2013
the brand continues to excite watch experts as much now as it did then. Indeed, anyone in need of proof of Lange’s continued commitment to its manufacturing philosophy need only consider the company’s Grand Complication, launched earlier this year. With seven functions, including a grande sonnerie, a perpetual calendar, and a split-seconds chronograph accurate to 1/5th of a second, it features a density of complications uncommon even in the category of grand complications. It has 14 indications, spent seven years in development and takes a full 12 months to make. It’s the most complicated wristwatch Lange has ever made, and it’s yours for €1.9 million. In the last three months, Lange has launched five new watches and opened boutiques in Singapore, Paris and Palm Beach. As reputation has spread, demand has soared. With the lucrative opportunity posed by this fact, will output at the small Saxon manufacturer be heading skywards? “Without compromising on quality, we will moderately increase our production to meet the growing global demand for our watches,” Schmid tells me. “Emphasis is placed on ‘moderately’. To maintain the high levels of quality the share of manual work and the degree of vertical integration is more likely to increase. We will extend our premises in the first place to improve production processes. The training of new talents will be another key measure in the years to come.” The two most regurgitated buzzwords you’ll hear in the watch industry are ‘tradition’ and ‘innovation’. As a firm so loyal to its Saxon roots (without Lange there would be no Glashütte) and as a company so devoted in its quest for perfection, A. Lange & Söhne is a brand to whom the words still attach meaning. With the passing of Blümlein in 2001, and the well-earned retirement of Walter on the horizon, one of the most revered names in timekeeping is at risk of falling into the hands of businessmen rather than watchmakers for the very first time. Fortunately for the brand’s admirers, Schmid realises the importance of Blümlein and Walter’s story to A. Lange & Söhne’s future. “By striving to implement their vision,” he says, “we continue their life’s work.” alange-soehne.com An A. Lange & Söhne pocket watch presented by Kaiser William II to Sultan Abdul Hamid II on the occasion of his visit to Turkey in 1898
Swiss movement, English heart
Bespoke ETA 2824-2 Jumping Hour automatic modification by Master Watchmaker Johannes Jahnke / Each piece, of only 250, personally assembled by Johannes and his team in Switzerland / 43mm, surgical grade stainless steel case with sapphire crystal and transparent case back / CITES certified, premium grade, Louisiana alligator deployment strap / 5 year movement guarantee
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Artistic Profusion
As the collection was designed to pay homage to British botanical art, it was only fitting that Vacheron Constantin’s Métiers d’Art Florilège was unveiled at Kew Gardens’ Marianne North Gallery last month. Created exclusively for women, the dials of the trilogy of watches combine the artistic crafts of enamelling, guillochage and gem-setting in a tribute to the illustrations within Robert John Thornton’s 1799 The Temple of Flora. Boasting a 65 hour power reserve and comprising 18-karat white gold cases and dials, VC’s Métiers d’Art Florilège has been created as a limited series of 20 collector’s watches, each priced at £90,700. vacheron-constantin.com
Charitable Chronography
More than procuring something striking for the wrist, purchase IWC’s latest creation and you’ll be helping support disadvantaged kids across the globe. A fittingly athleticlooking release for a charity that aims to better the lives of youngsters through sport, the Portuguese Yacht Club Chronograph Edition ‘Laureus Sport for Good Foundation’ features a signal-red stopwatch hand, black rubber strap and is water-resistant to 6 bar. Its case back also comes engraved with the winning entry to IWC’s Time To Move children’s drawing competition. Limited to 1,000 pieces, it’s yours for £9,950. iwc.com
watches For treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces, watch this space...
One to Watch
Virtual Reality
Rolex Ladies Oyster Perpetual Datejust Lady 31 in
It’s a digital wristwatch that, technically, will do less than your smartphone. Why, then, will the entry-level Slyde set you back £4,800? Keen to find out, we trialled one. Our verdict is that if you’re a gadgetloving gizmo-worshiper, you’ll enjoy sliding over a touch-sensitive screen to change the appearance of several swanky, virtual mechanisms. If you prefer more understated timepieces, this isn’t the watch for you. Owing to the three or four seconds the Slyde takes to wake itself up after it’s turned itself automatically off, nor is it for anyone who demands to read the time in an instant. Which, when it comes to watches, is sort of the point.
Yellow Rolesor £9,650, Rolex Boutique, 29 Old Bond Street
020 7182 4080; slyde.ch
Each month we select our timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting pieces
A marriage of colours and materials, Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Datejust Lady 31 manages to boast both timeless femininity and contemporary elegance
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Roar of the Twenties
Image courtesy of Hackett S/S13
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Everyone’s gone Gatsby crazy this month; see how 20s style has transcended from the screen to the street
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1 1972 Prestige watch, £28,820, Vacheron Constantin, vacheron-constantin.com 2 Sterling silver-plated cufflinks in 18-karat yellow gold with black onyx, £250 Lara Bohinc, larabohinc.com 3 Striped braces, £75, Drake’s London, drakes-london.com 4 Smooth cognac and espresso suede travel bag, £595, Aspinal of London, 34 Long Acre 5 Slub silk bow tie, £105, Marwood London, marwoodlondon.co.uk 6 Leonard round-frame acetate sunglasses, £130, Illesteva, illesteva.com 7 Pilot’s watch Chronograph Edition Antoine de St. Exupéry, £25,500, IWC, iwc.com 8 Men’s leather brown nappa driving gloves, £95, Aspinal of London, as before 9 Milo leather wingtip brogues, £395, O’Keeffe, mrporter.com 10 Chunky heel and toe 6 gauge socks, £15, Hackett, 117 Bishopsgate 11 18-karat gold cufflinks, £2,650, Foundwell, mrporter.com
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The American
Dream
Nothing can top the glamour and decadence of the 1920s; emulate Carey Mulligan and Isla Fisher in Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby with Art Deco accessories this spring
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1 Diamond ear clips, POA, Dusausoy, on show with Lucas Rarities at Art Antiques London, Kensington Gardens (12-19 June), haughton.com 2 Diamond and onyx target ring, £8,350, Richard Ogden, richardogden.com 3 1920s platinum diamond necklace, £12,950, Heirlooms, net-a-porter.com 4 Duke printed satin-moiré clutch, £795, Anya Hindmarch, anyahindmarch.com 5 Faux pearl and crystal tassel brooch, £125, Butler & Wilson from the Susan Caplan Vintage Collection, susancaplan.co.uk 6 Acacia antique silver headdress, £505, Jenny Packham, jennypackham.com 7 French diamond and platinum brooch, POA, Boivin, on show at Art Antiques London, as before 8 Art Deco necklace in platinum with round brilliant diamonds (early 1920s), Alexander E Tillander michaelrosejewellery.com 9 Akoya cultured pearl strand necklace, POA, from a selection at Mikimoto, mikimoto.co.uk 10 Platinum, natural pearl, old-cut diamonds and two pear-shaped diamonds bandeau (1924), cartier.com 11 1920s Art Deco earrings, £395, Rewind Vintage Affairs, farfetch.com 12 Art Deco 1.07-karat sapphire and diamond ring, c.1935 from Robin Haydock, POA, Grays Antiques graysantiques.com 13 Art Deco style sapphire and diamond ring, £6,900, Richard Ogden, as before 14 Art Deco style sapphire and diamond plaque ring, £3,600, Richard Ogden, as before 15 Jean Fouquet aquamarine and diamond cuff bracelet, POA, Hancocks London, hancocks-london.com 16 South Sea pearl and rose cut diamond swirl earrings, £3,170, Susannah Lovis, susannahlovis.com 17 Lily cluster diamond headband set in platinum, POA, Harry Winston, harrywinston.com 18 Cartier cufflinks, POA, Hancocks London, as before 19 Pewter resin feather ring, £219, Miriam Salat, Harrods, harrods.com
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events
Celebrate the month of may as spring arrives in canary wharf, get that sunshine feeling with a whole host of dancing events, spring / summer 13 fashion shows and raising money for deserving causes with a charity abseil and sponsored jog
VIVA LA DANCE! SALSA NIGHT
Salsa the night away to the infectious rhythms of the sensational live Cuban band, Son Yambu. Indulge your passion for salsa at Canary Wharf with a night dedicated to the fusion of Latin rhythms and styles. Start by exploring the essentials in a friendly workshop lead by instructor Geraldo Reynos, and then take to the floor to dance the evening away. And for those well earned breaks, our professional dancers will provide dazzling displays to keep you entertained! Come along, enjoy a drink with friends and soak up the atmosphere of our salsa experience. Wednesday 8 May 7.30 – 10.15pm Workshop from 6pm East Wintergarden 43 Bank Street Canary Wharf £12 (includes a complimentary glass of bubbly on arrival) Booking: 0871 220 0260 Seetickets.com (booking fee applies) Tickets available on the door subject to availability Full bar and cloakroom
Spring/summer 13 collection
Join us for the return of Canary Wharf’s annual summer shopping event. With discounts of up to 20 per cent available in many of Canary Wharf’s leading fashion stores, Spring / Summer 13 Collection provides the perfect opportunity to refresh your holiday wardrobe. Fashion shows in Canada Place and Jubilee Place will showcase the season’s latest trends and maverick pianist, Tokio Myers will be performing in Canada Place and Jubilee Place on Friday and Saturday. Friday 31 May & Saturday 1 June Friday 9am – 6pm Saturday 10am – 6pm Throughout Shopping Malls Free
CANARY WHARF CHARITY ABSEIL IN AID OF SCOPE
Fearlessly descend 230ft down 50 Bank Street while raising essential funds for the charity, Scope. No previous experience is required as training is provided by fully qualified instructors but you must be over 18. scope.org.uk Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 May 8am – 5pm 50 Bank Street Canary Wharf
£20 registration fee £250 minimum target Registration: 020 7619 7154 alannah.watts@scope.org.uk
Window Galleries The Art & Design galleries in Canada Place are open daily and showcase up-and-coming artists, designers and craftspeople. This month the galleries display:
Amber Fever
The Amber Fever Collection – The work of a collection of talented jewellery designers – is inspired by the Baltic port of Gdansk, where Baltic amber is cultivated. It is renowned throughout Europe for jewellery design and craftsmanship and has been since the Middle Ages. The designers employ the finest materials and skills for each piece created. amberfever.com Jubilee Walk Free
Daniel Preece
Daniel uses the city as a starting point to explore formal issues of geometry and colour in paintings that hover between abstraction and figuration. On show are paintings from a project that celebrated London’s Olympic year. Daniel was one of 3 artists invited to make work based on a helicopter flight across London at dusk, resulting in an exhibition that explored their different interpretations of the city. danielpreece.co.uk Canada Walk Free
CANARY WHARF JOG In aid of the British Heart Foundation
A perfect opportunity to get fit, have fun with friends or make new ones as you jog round the circuit to help vital funds for the British Heart Foundation. Last year 1500 people took part and raised over £35,000 for the nation’s leading heart charity. Wednesday 22 May 6 – 8.30pm Around Canary Wharf, starting from Canada Square Park Free to register Timing chip £2 (optional)
For more information visit canarywharf.com
Registration: 0845 130 8663 Bhf.org.uk/canarywharfjog
@yourcanarywharf
TED BAKER, CANADA plACE
Canary Wharf
bars & restaurants • fashion & style • arts & events canarywharf.com
*Terms and conditions apply. See website for details.
@yourcanarywharf
SHOPPING Jas T-Bar Sandals, £45, Dune, Cabot Place
Tie Front Bikini Top and Brief, £20, Warehouse, Canada Place
Lemine Floral Embroidered Dress, £225, Reiss, Jubilee Place and Reiss Womenswear, Cabot Place
Fun Tailored Bubble Dress, £140, Karen Millen, Jubilee Place
Mixed Colour Earrings, £6, Warehouse, Canada Place
Sowa Treasured Orchid Bow Clutch, £59, Ted Baker, Canada Place
Invitation Pandora Dress, £179, Hobbs, Canada Place
S/S13 Collection On 31 May and 1 June Canary Wharf Presents S/S 13 Collection; with discounts of up to 20% and fashion shows in Canada Place and Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf provides the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe with this season’s latest trends
Wristlet Purse, £75, Whistles, Jubilee Place
Alex Monroe Hummingbird Necklace, £132, Charles Fish, Cabot Place
Kiley Rose Silk with Sonoma Gradient Sunglasses, £195, David Clulow, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place
Zelita Patent Peep Toe Wedge £170, L.K.Bennett, Jubilee Place
Coral And Gold Twist Bracelet, £45, Jaegar Womenswear, Cabot Place
Perlaa Wallpaper Floral Dress, £159, Ted Baker, Canada Place
Porcelain Pebble Brook Street Bag, £695, Aspinal of London, Cabot Place
Bonno Summer Bloom Shorts, £89, Ted Baker, Canada Place
www.canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
al fresco season
Waterside locations, fantastic views, iconic architecture and a work-meets-leisure atmosphere: Now that summer is finally here, where better to dine than at Canary Wharf? Ibérica La Terraza Iberica’s Canary Wharf terrace is now open, bringing Spain’s famous outdoor culture to the capital. Ibérica La Terraza offers bespoke cocktails and al fresco dining with its limited edition menu, which includes the restaurant’s signature style of traditional Spanish tapas served with a contemporary twist. Located opposite Ibérica Canary Wharf in a leafy corner of Cabot Square, Ibérica La Terraza offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the authentic atmosphere of Madrid’s famous terrace culture. La Terraza will be open from breakfast through to evening with a selection of hot and cold tapas created by Ibérica’s Executive Chef Nacho Manzano, who was awarded two Michelin Stars for his flagship restaurant in Northern Spain, Asturias. Enjoy delicate dishes with a glass of Ibérica’s red wine sangria, offering refreshing flavours of mint, cucumber and fresh fruit. Now let’s just hope for a summer full of sun. Iberica La Terraza, Cabot Square 020 7636 8650
The Parlour Overlooking Canada Square Park, The Parlour’s capacious terrace and bar, shaded by giant umbrellas and lit by fairy lights is without doubt one of Canary Wharf’s most popular haunts. Celebrating all the fun of the fair, The Parlour’s innovative new cocktail menu will deliver a carnival of concoctions. Soak in the atmosphere as the smells from their barbeque waft through the air, tuck into punchy salads and gourmet burgers and sip on stylish summer cocktails – the perfect place to spend an afternoon or enjoy a post-work drink. The Parlour, The Park Pavilion 0845 468 0100
Boisdale of Canary Wharf Boisdale of Canary Wharf was recently named “Whisky Restaurant of The Year” at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky Awards. It holds over 1,000 bottles of malt whisky and is undoubtedly one of the most extensive and magnificent whisky bars in the world. Elsewhere, the restaurant’s Caviar & Oyster Bar serves a definitive range of oysters, Hebridean shellfish, Scottish smoked salmon and a superb range of caviar, all of which can be enjoyed on Boisdale’s awning-covered heated terrace overlooking Cabot Square fountains. Boisdale of Canary Wharf, Cabot Place 020 7715 5818
SHOPPING Roka Canary Wharf Specialising in robatayaki – a Japanese-style barbecue – prepared on the restaurant’s central robata grill, Roka’s food is regarded as some of the best in the capital. And where better to taste it than on the restaurant’s second floor terrace. A tranquil oasis from the hustle and bustle of city life, that offers stunning views of Canada Square Park, the terrace’s exotic foliage and low lounge style furniture create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where drinks and light meals can be enjoyed. Roka, The Park Pavilion 020 7636 5228
Jamie’s Italian Dedicated to top-notch seasonal produce and a menu that has its roots in traditionally rustic Italian cooking, Jamie’s Italian serves flavoursome delicacies from the world-famous chef. Embrace the sun this summer and try some of their impressive new dishes on the restaurant’s invitingly cosy outdoor terrace. Jamie’s Italian, Churchill Place 020 3002 5252
Wahaca A popular favourite, Wahaca continues to bring the soul of Mexico to the heart of Canary Wharf. Now that summer is here, the restaurant is taking things outside via a charming roof top terrace bar. Try the restaurant’s delicious cocktails, which blend the best of Wahaca’s mezcals and tequilas with other iconic Mexican flavours such as tamarind, lime, hibiscus, grapefruit and mint. A Mexican table football, swing chairs and a living plant wall makes this a buzzy and unique destination to enjoy pre and post dinner drinks and after-work cocktails. Alternatively, grab a take-away burrito or salad and enjoy in Canada Square Park. Wahaca, The Park Pavilion 020 7516 9145
www.canarywharf.com
@yourcanarywharf
business
Eye of the
I
The current climate in the UK is a perfect opportunity for investors, says Perry M Andersen
t’s not exactly breaking news to state that the British economy is struggling. The government continues to plough ahead with a policy of spending cuts, the banks are fighting fires on multiple fronts, and the Eurozone economies remain delicately balanced on the edge of a precipice, seemingly only one false move from disaster. To the naked eye it’s hardly just cause for optimism, is it? You can also add in the fact that the UK media is continuing to apply downward pressure on the UK’s economic outlook. Continuous negative sentiments and the threat of a triple dip recession, coupled with the recent loss of the UK’s AAA credit rating, have left a sour taste in the mouth of many home-grown venture capitalists looking to invest in new British businesses. But it shouldn’t. A drawback in levels of private investment, coupled with rounds of quantitative easing, have left a trillion dollars’ worth of capital sitting on the sidelines waiting to be deployed into the global economy. The result of this is that there is more private capital available than good homes to accommodate it, and this won’t change in the medium term. The result of the current economic climate is that many UK-based investors have locked up capital until the financial future is more assured. However, from my vantage point
overseas foreign investors such as me can assess the situation in the UK very differently. I firmly believe that the UK economy may well be weak but it isn’t nearly as fragile as it is being portrayed, and in fact the combination of characteristics that can be found currently in the UK actually present an extremely encouraging opportunity for investors to find good homes for capital. Economic conditions may well be rough, but right now the UK presents a “perfect storm” for venture capitalists to find safe, financially successful homes for their money. The first, and most obvious, factor which is particularly applicable to overseas investors, is that the UK pound is weak. Investment groups and private investors based outside the UK can expect a much better exchange rate at this time than when the economy is healthier, offering the potential of less expensive investments and greater returns now than in the future. From my perspective, as the Canadian
long and this window of opportunity could close if the pound begins to appreciate against our native currency. Foreign investors from across the globe are in the same position, and so will no doubt be
The UK economy may well be weak but it isn’t nearly as fragile as it is being portrayed dollar has appreciated significantly in relation to the pound, I can acquire more for less right now, and expect greater returns in future when the pound strengthens. Wait too
thinking along similar lines. My second major stimulus for investing right now is that there are currently a lot of advantages in the British business sector
may 2013 THE CITY 43
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that should translate into profitable opportunities for investors. For innovative companies with sensible business plans, I believe the current climate is actually very good to start-up or expand. The cost of debt instruments are virtually zero, so businesses on a sound footing with clear ideas and strategy have capital available to grow quickly and efficiently. Business expenditure will also be lower as suppliers compete for a smaller amount of business, driving down costs. For businesses well-equipped to succeed during the economic downturn, this will lead to greater profits and better returns for investors. During a downturned economy, business resources often come at a much lower price than when the economy is buoyant. This is no more apparent than in the labour market. A squeeze on the number of skilled, well-paid jobs available inevitably results in an educated, under-utilised workforce. As the supply of talented employees continues to exceed demand, the price of labour drops, offering companies the opportunity to make substantial savings on one of its biggest business costs. This
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is clearly good news for investors, as any investment during this period of low labour expenditure should immediately affect the profitability of the company more directly, and therefore increase the investor’s returns. One final benefit I can see of being in the eye of the “recession storm” for businesses is that competitors will also be struggling, or even falling out of the market entirely. Companies on a stronger footing, or who are more innovative, will be able to acquire a greater market share, or even buy out their competitors and absorb them into their business, as the going becomes tougher. As investors we are always looking for these disruptive companies who can survive in the harshest financial climates, because the rewards of being successful now will reap huge rewards in the future for substantially lower capital. There are many examples of these companies in the UK, which is why my firm is continuing to focus so much attention on the British market. We wholeheartedly
believe that in certain sectors today’s start up could be tomorrow’s market leaders, which is why investing in the UK market is so interesting. The retraction of investment from the UK, both from private venture capitalists and the banking sector, is reducing competition for foreign investors looking for the best opportunities in the UK. So whilst the trillion dollars sits idle waiting for a more competitive, less fruitful market to emerge from the depths of the UK recession, my firm will continue
We wholeheartedly believe that today’s start-up could be tomorrow’s market leaders to work hard investing in the market leaders of tomorrow. Because the future of British business is being formed now, and today is the optimal time to become a part of it. Perry M. Anderson is an international investor and financier with private equity and investment firm Quadra Global Capital Corp
A SUB-ZERO IS JUST A REFRIGERATOR, LIKE A DIAMOND IS JUST A STONE Iconic design. Enduring quality. Superior performance
www.subzero-wolf.co.uk 251 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 2EP 0845 250 0010
As inflation rises and your money gets cheaper, experts say your investments should be protected if you want to stay ahead of the game, writes Andy Rosenbaum
T
he words ‘pound sterling’ are linked to the word ‘ster’ in old German, meaning strong, pure, stable, reliable, or excellent. A pound originally meant a literal pound-weight of English silver, which was held in high esteem in medieval Europe. There is, in the UK, still a strong sense of pride in having one of the oldest, and, historically, one of the most stable currencies in the world. But this is all changing; the value of sterling is declining rapidly, and further decline is expected as inflation rises. The sum of £100 put aside in the year 2000 is today effectively worth about one-third less. (If you look 30 years back, you find that sterling has fallen in value by almost two-thirds, according to a study by Lloyds TSB Private Banking, so
that you would need £299 today to have the equivalent spending power of £100 in 1982). Yet further decline is in store. Inflation is on the rise, and the Bank of England isn’t too worried about it – the incoming Governor Mark Carney has already indicated his commitment to keeping interest rates low for the long-term, so that traditional means of containing inflation are not likely to be employed in UK monetary policy. Experts agree that investors should think about taking action to protect their portfolios from inflation. “Central banks aren’t focusing on containing inflation; this suggests that now may be the time for investors to think about inflation-proofing their investment portfolios,” warns Tom Stevenson, investment director at fund manager Fidelity Worldwide Investment in London.
business
“The Bank of England and the Chancellor haven’t hit the inflation target for about six years, so savers are just getting poorer by the year,” complains Mark Dampier, head of research at the London asset manager Hargreaves Lansdown. They propose a slew of different strategies, ranging from the most fundamental to the rather unique. But they agree that action must be taken – your money will be worth less and less, so increasing the value of your investments is crucial.
Looming Inflation As a consequence of the policy of increasing the money supply to help support growth – the so-called “quantitative easing” that the Bank of England has undertaken for the past four years – most
economists expect to see inflation move sharply higher in the near future. Even the BOE itself predicts that the inflation rate will remain above its two per cent target until 2015, and that is one of the most conservative estimates. In March, inflationary expectations for the UK hit a five-year high. The statistic is determined by the five and ten-year UK break-even rates, which measure the difference between nominal and inflationlinked bond yields – it jumped to nearly 3.3 per cent, a level not seen since 2008. Shop prices in March rose at their fastest pace since December as the cost of non-food goods increased for the first time in more than a year. Overall shop price inflation rose to 1.4 per cent in March from 1.1 per cent in February, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC). Food price inflation remained high at 3.5 per cent.
may 2013 THE CITY 47
business
Bonds, Floating-Rate Bonds and Asset-Backed securities What does this mean to investors? “People tend to underestimate the destructive power of inflation. But remember that an inflation rate of seven per cent will halve the value of your income in just ten years and reduce it by threequarters in 20 years,” Stevenson points out. The worth of any kind of fixed-income investment suffers greatly in an inflationary environment. “With many investors having moved into long-term bonds during the ‘bond bubble’ of the past year, the need to make changes is urgent,” Dampier points out. “If a government bond is paying an interest rate of two per cent, with inflation above that figure, the actual earnings are negative. And they will decrease further in value as inflation rises.” Dampier recommends that individual investors consider moving to the corporate bond market, which is opening up to retail clients. “There are now bonds that retail investors can buy for £2,000 or £3,000. But the retail investor might be well-advised to look into bond funds, which will diversify corporate holdings with scores of different bonds.” One such fund is the M&G Optimal Fund whose manager Richard Woolnough is relatively confident on the outlook for the sector, because markets are factoring in high levels of corporate bankruptcies. Dampier also likes European equities, which he thinks are way undervalued at the moment. He recommends that investors look at the Henderson European Special Situations Fund, for example, as a risk-managed way to gain exposure to the asset class. Yet another, more exotic area that Dampier suggests investors may wish to consider are floating-rate bonds. Floating-rate notes protect investors from rising rates because their interest rates ‘reset’ as market rates move higher. Most floating-rate debt is from investment grade corporations or asset-backed securities backed by mortgages or receivables from credit cards or car loans. For the retail investor, a fund is the best way to invest in these securities. A good example is Pimco’s Senior Floating Rate Fund, launched in 2011, that has attracted $167.9 million of inflows this year and now has nearly $2.2 billion of assets, according to data from fund researcher Lipper. Some advisors suggest a more exotic approach – another type of fund that gives investors a chance to earn seven-to-ten per cent returns in an asset class that is usually reserved for institutional investors. The European Asset-Backed Securities Fund, managed by Twenty-Four Asset Management, invests in anything from car loans and commercial property through to the main opportunity, residential mortgages. Yes, this is the same concept that bankers used to bundle together all sorts of mortgages and securities, a move that led to the financial crisis, but, with the appropriate care taken, this kind of securitisation can be safe and profitable – indeed the market has
48 THE CITY may 2013
come back strongly since the crisis in the institutional space. It’s not without risk, but it does offer an interesting alternative to the traditional investments made by individual investors.
Getting Back to Basics Other advisors suggest moves that are a bit more drastic, a bit more ‘down-to-earth, back-to-basics’ in the face of the inflationary spiral. “Always maintain a certain reserve of cash,” warns Anna Sofat, director of the Addidi wealth management firm in London. “Certainly, you will receive a low return on it. But during these troubled times, keep a relatively large portion of your portfolio available as you may need it.” Sofat also suggests putting money in “linkers,” index-linked gilts that offer a better return as inflation rises. Still, the level of return from “linkers” is quite low, only just above inflation at present. Then, what is almost as good as cash? “Real assets offer some protection against inflation,” suggests Stevenson. “These might include things like airports, oil wells, property and other infrastructure. Shares in companies exposed to these assets are a much more flexible way of accessing this protection than the assets themselves, which can often be quite difficult to trade in and out of.” Fidelity proposes the Fidelity Global Real Assets Securities Fund, which makes a selection of companies based around this kind of asset and buys shares in them. Gold, one asset that used to excite investors, seems to have passed its sell-by date. A bear market for gold has emerged, as the price of the yellow metal has fallen 18 per cent from its high as of the beginning of April. The problem with gold is that it is great when everyone wants it, as they did up until the beginning of this year, but then, when it falls into a decline, there’s no good reason to invest in it. Gold isn’t good for much in industrial terms, so demand for it depends on jewellery use and greed. As billionaire guru Warren Buffett once put it: “If you buy an ounce of gold today and you hold it for a hundred years, you can go to it every day and you could coo to it and fondle it – and a hundred years from now, you’ll have one ounce of gold and it won’t have done anything for you in between.” The threat of inflation for all the major currencies, for the Japanese yen, the US dollar, and the British pound, is so great that foreign exchange investors have begun to refer to them as the “three uglies.” Central banks are not too concerned yet, because their biggest worry is to kick-start economies in recession. But investors clearly have to be concerned, before they see all of the value they’ve saved up for years go up in smoke. “The financial crisis has reshaped the investment landscape. We have seen an unprecedented injection of liquidity from central banks. We are now in uncharted territory,” comments Fidelity portfolio manager Amrit Lodha.
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business opinion
Desperate Times Another month, another European bailout. Quelle surprise! This time it’s the turn of Cyprus, and this one has hit home, says THE ANONYMOUS BANKER
I
n previous bailouts, the overriding thoughts of those sitting on the sidelines have been: “Stop striking and get back to work” or, “If you are going to work six-hour days, including a two-hour lunch followed by a one-hour siesta what do you expect?” This time, the conditions imposed directly or indirectly by the ‘Troika’ are not only imposed on the government, but also directly affecting the public. Cash is being rationed; savings are having huge chunks taken out of them; and the people have suffered through eight consecutive days without access to cash, with a wide-reaching impact for all businesses and services. How would we cope if the same were to happen at home? Would we enjoy the unexpected holidays while businesses suffered, unable to access cash to buy stock and the economy slowly ground to a halt? How would we react to our savings being cannibalised to bail out the banks that were supposed to be keeping them safe? Safe to say, this scenario is unlikely to occur in the UK, but I empathise with hardworking savers who will lose so much (less so the Russian corporates with accounts in Cypriot banks). While increased regulation from the FSA, Bank of England and the government has been a thorn in our sides since the onset of this crisis, it is partly thanks to that regulation that our banks cannot take the kind of risks that will jeopardise so much of what we have individually worked to build. This time the process felt different, more painful, yet the end result is the same: an economy that needs to heal then rebuild. No different then from much of Europe. It won’t be easy, it won’t be pretty, and we will have to endure more uncertainty and market volatility, but we’ll get there… I hope!
man of the moment: Danny Boyle, film director & screenwriter
D
espite standing at the helm of some of the biggest blockbusters of the past decade, to say nothing of last year’s London Olympics Opening Ceremony, Danny Boyle is the most ordinary of superstar directors. From working-class Manchester roots, he is utterly without pretension, yet supremely creatively gifted. First harbouring ambitions to enter the priesthood, Boyle became enchanted with the magic of the movies after seeing Apocalypse Now, an experience he has since described as being “sandblasted by the power of cinema.” Having found his vocation, he began sending out enquiries, landing a job at the Joint Stock Theatre Company, before graduating to the Royal Court Theatre. Boyle’s roots in live performance have given him a firm understanding of audience intimacy, a love of good writing and a deep appreciation for actors. He served his apprenticeship behind the camera by directing TV shows such as Inspector Morse and producing Elephant, before making the foray into film. Boyle’s first offering was Shallow Grave, the most commercially successful film of 1995. A string of hits followed, including Trainspotting, A Life Less Ordinary, The Beach, 28 Days Later and the Academy Award-winning Slumdog Millionaire. His latest, Trance, is in cinemas now. Boyle states that all his films deal with a character facing impossible odds and overcoming them. Perhaps it is this that adds the un-teachable “Midas touch” to his creative work – his choice of subject matter keeps film critics salivating, while generating enough box office revenue. It can come as little wonder, then, that Olympics organisers turned to Boyle to stage a show that would wow the world.
50 THE CITY may 2013
Recently he was nominated for a BAFTA Radio Times Audience Award, honouring his direction of the London Olympics Opening Ceremony. “Boyle takes a subject that you’ve often seen portrayed realistically, in a politically correct way… and he has managed to make it realistic but also incredibly uplifting and joyful,” says Trainspotting producer Andrew Macdonald. The re-invention of previous themes is perhaps where Boyle’s secret of success truly lies – drug users, zombies and Cinderella stories are certainly nothing new on film, yet Boyle approaches the subject matter with enough freshness of vision, combined with simple storytelling, that he captures the true essence of cinema – to transport, entertain and move his audience. “To be a film-maker... you have to lead,” says Boyle. “You have to be psychotic in your desire to do something. People always like the easy route. You have to push very hard to get something unusual, something different.” Clearly behind the northern, laddish charm lies the voracious work ethic, which has seen Boyle rise to the top of the entertainment world. As a director, he combines true artistry with phenomenal commercial success; at once a shameless borrower and a true original. And let’s face it; the man who dreamed up Her Majesty leaping from a helicopter, accompanied by 007, before the eyes of the world, must be an inspiration.
s_bukley / Shutterstock.com
Mark Bonington presents a series looking at business people at the top of their industry
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motoring
REPORT
Better Than
Boris
They may be loud, difficult to park and terrible to ride in almost all English weather, writes AIMEE LATIMER, but Harley-Davidsons are an icon of freedom
T
his year Harley-Davidson is celebrating its 110th anniversary in the traditional biker-style with constant partying and riding rigorously across six continents. Too long dented by its association with dive-frequenting bikers, Harley-Davidson’s appeal comes from its exquisite craftsmanship and an ongoing repertoire with its clients. Constantly updated, the stream of new Harley models have lither skeletons for their shining engines and are being wrapped evermore stylishly in
sinews of bulky hardware. The signature high handles of a Harley, propping up riders to be seen, are a world-famous symbol of a proud biker, one not rushing from A to B but focusing on the escapism of the ride. You may be more likely to see a Boris Bike ripping up the suited streets of the Square Mile than a Harley, but maybe in 2013 you might get lucky; Harley has introduced a line-up of limited-edition anniversary models, each crafted with a dedicated plaque and exclusive paint skins. The spirit of freedom meets legendary engineering: what a way to ride. harley-davidson.com
The Great Gatsby Author F. Scott Fitzgerald’s renowned novel is experiencing a resurgence of interest all of a sudden with the film due out at the same time as this Sadler’s Wells ballet adaptation. This story of secrecy, intrigue and flamboyant parties has never looked so colourful. Between the 14 – 18 May, Northern Ballet will stage an extravaganza of flawless choreography and glamour right in the heart of London. northernballet.com/gatsby
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Director Sam Mendes has got his hands on some pretty big projects before, but bringing the wonderment of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to life on stage will be no mean feat. With names like Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, Neal Street Productions and producer Kevin McCormick backing the production, 17 May at the Theatre Royal will be the beginning of something special. charlieandthechocolatefactory.com
IN THE KNOW Be well-informed on the course, the track, the pitch and the street, with our essential guide
Making Waves For something a little different to do at the weekend, the scientific discovery exhibition on an East German fishing vessel moored in Canary Wharf is just the ticket. The voluntarilyorganised Electronic Wave on 5 May will include informative talks, entertainment and refreshments all day. emfcamp.org/wave
On Your Bike This is what you get when you team the always contemporary Hoxton Hotel with the custom bike makers at Mango Bikes: in a few words, The Hox Bike initiative. Guests can now expect the usual pristine rooms and luxurious toiletries, with the added bonus of a complimentary cycle readily available upon check-in. The choice of four light-framed bespoke designs are a shrewd addition for visitors who like to keep fit, travel smoothly or just fancy a leisurely tour of the City’s most scenic routes. hoxtonhotels.com
news
State-Of-The-Art Usually we’re too busy actually listening to music to ever really take time out to appreciate the craftsmanship behind the technology that’s channelling the sound to our waiting ears. Harrods, however, admires the sleekness and sophistication of such things and its Technology 2.0 showcase invites technophiles to come along and have a gawk at some of the latest gadgetry on the market to celebrate the first anniversary of the store’s Technology Department. harrods.com
Heads Role Renowned theatre company Red Rose Chain will be showcasing its unique theatrical experience Fallen in Love at the Tower of London this spring, and there’s no better setting for it. The play explores the tempestuous world of Anne Boleyn, taking audiences through the tragic figure’s short-lived life to her untimely death. 17 May – 16 June redrosechain.com/ falleninlove
Running Start Last month saw the gruelling annual 26-mile London Marathon, a feat of human endurance if ever there was one – even Mo Farah only ran half the race. Still, huge respect to you if you did give it a go. A little less challenging, yet equally worthy feat, is the Tommy’s 10K Fun Run, part of the British 10k London Run, which will take place on Sunday 14 July. The popular 10km road race leads runners on a picturesque tour through the heart of central London, past many of its iconic landmarks including Big Ben, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. Former Olympic champions Darren Campbell MBE and Sally Gunnell OBE DL are both supporting the hardworking children’s charity and will be there to show their support on the day. tommys.org
Howzat for Banter? For a little light relief, the good folks at The Middle Stump cricketing blog have authored an anthological guide on the lives, lines and laughs that make cricket one of the best-loved sports in the world. The book – which receives its official launch at the Southgate Adelaide Cricket Club – includes entertaining interviews with Mike Gatting, Paul Nixon and Aussie fast-bowler Jason ‘Dizzy’ Gillespie, as well as more stories from the middle wicket. thehistorypress.co.uk
Victory Day Every year 9 May signals a poignant day in the lives of countless civilians across the world, as they come together to commemorate the soldiers who have passed on, as well as appreciating those who fought in the Second World War. You’d be hard pressed to find a show of gratitude more fitting than the Victory Day salutations taking place at the Hay’s Galleria on Bankside where the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra will be performing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture by HMS Belfast. www.rpo.co.uk
may 2013 THE CITY 55
Rakish Rolls
promises performance One of the stars of this year’s Geneva Motor Show takes Rolls-Royce along a new path. By Mat thew Carter
motoring
R
olls-Royce has never really ‘done’ performance. In the past it left its erstwhile stable mate Bentley to such vulgarities as motor racing and warp factor acceleration. But things are about to change. Launched at the recent Geneva Motor Show is the new Wraith, billed as the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever with, whisper it, a rakish fastback design. Although based on the Ghost saloon, Wraith is a far more overtly sporting offering. It’s driven by the same 6.6-litre V12 engine, but the power has been increased by 60bhp to 624bhp…enough for a 0-60mph time of just 4.4 seconds. It sits on a shorter wheelbase than the Ghost – though there’s still ample room in the rear for two passengers – while access, as ever with a Royce, is easy via huge rear-hinged ‘coach’ doors. More worryingly, given the comfort expected of a Rolls-Royce, the suspension has been stiffened, though the company claims: “Wraith is no GT bruiser. Agility improvements have been achieved with absolutely no compromise to the sensation of riding on a bed of air.” Perhaps the best thing about the Wraith, though, is the way it looks. The dramatically sloping roofline and steeply raked rear screen bring a sense of drama to the car, while the Palladian grille at the front is better integrated than on the Ghost, less ‘in your face’. It’s a car that really lends itself to twotone paintwork, as well. Inside, there’s all the luxury you’d expect and even runs to a twinkling headlining which incorporates 1,340 fibre-optic lamps to give the impression of a starry night sky. Advanced technology includes the transmission which uses GPS data to read the road ahead and then selects the most appropriate gear for the terrain: the modern-day equivalent of a riding mechanic, then. Deliveries are due to start towards the end of the year and the price tag will start at £212k.
Perhaps the best thing about the Wraith, though, is the way it looks. The dramatically sloping roofline and steeply raked rear screen bring a sense of drama to the car...
may 2013 THE CITY 57
QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH LEATHER GOODS SINCE 1934
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motoring
The best
gets better BMW introduces the 3-series GT, writes Mat thew Carter
T
he best car in the real world? Easy. A BMW 320d Touring. Great to drive, offers ample everyday performance mixed with excellent economy, and is more practical than the equivalent saloon. At least, that used to be the case. For the Touring now has a serious rival for top honours. It’s the BMW 320d Gran Turismo. Longer, taller and wider than the Touring, the fastback GT has more space inside for passengers – especially in the rear – and a bigger boot to, er, boot. Thanks to its longer wheelbase, there’s more legroom for rear passengers than there is in a 5-series saloon, while there’s 25 litres more luggage space than in the 3-series Touring. According to BMW, the GT mixes the dynamic ability of the 3-series
saloon with the practicality of the Touring and the looks of a coupé. It’s a formula that was first tried on the 5-series GT, but whereas that model is a more ungainly SUV than a genuine Gran Turismo, the 3-series GT is better balanced and far more aesthetically pleasing. Due to arrive in showrooms in late spring, GT versions of the 3-series will cost around £1,500 more than the equivalent Touring model. The range will mirror the engine and trim options found in the saloon and estate, with the 335i, powered by a 305hp 3-litre sixcylinder petrol engine at the top of the price lists. The ‘real world’ version of choice, though, will be the 320d, an 184hp 2.0-litre diesel which will top 140mph yet can return up to 57mpg. Meet the new boss.
may 2013 THE CITY 59
WHERE LONDON COMES OUT TO PLAY HURLINGHAM 7th, 8th & 9th June 2013 tickets on sale through ticketmaster速 now Ticketmaster速: 0844 248 5069
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08/04/2013 16:08:10
sport
More Is In You…
…As you’ll discover if you complete the Deloitte Ride Across Britain, the UK’s premier long distance cycling challenge
I
t was an idea first dreamt up in a bar at the Beijing Olympics. Five years later, and the event has turned from a pipe dream into the UK’s biggest biking challenge. Say hello to Deloitte Ride Across Britain: a nine day, 963 mile, cycling event that sees participants peddle from Scotland’s John O’Groats to Cornwall’s Land’s End. Whether or not you call the UK home, the ride is now one of the classic cycling challenges on the planet, taking in the most beautiful parts of the country from barren moorlands and majestic highlands to lush green valleys, winding back lanes and stunning coastal roads. Some 700 riders take on the legendary ‘End to End’ each year. Many are inexperienced cyclists when they sign up, but Threshold Sports provide all the resources and support needed to complete the challenging course from the moment they register. Since 2010, 94 per cent have crossed the finish line.
What’s in store for 2013 Every year, the Deloitte RAB team make a few changes to the route as they unearth new roads and more exciting routes. This year, for a variety of reasons, riders will again travel North to South, avoiding busy roads around cities to finish at Land’s End, making it easier for most of the event’s riders to get home after finishing.
The new packages If you think you’ll struggle to get the time off work, or simply grimace at the prospect of cycling for nine days straight, 2013 sees three new packages added to the Ride Across Britain offering. The Scotland package will witness riders take on 424 miles in four days, across the length of Scotland, while participants in the England package will complete 539 over five days across the length of England. Alternatively, enter the Team Challenge with two friends and cycle for three consecutive days each. See you at the start line!
Deliotte Ride Across Britain June 8th –16th 2013 Packages The ‘End to End’ 963 miles 9 Days £1,750 Scotland 424 miles 4 Days £950 England 539 miles 5 Days £1,150 The Team Challenge 963 Miles 3x3 Days £9,950 (for a team of ten)
www.rideacrossbritain.com
may 2013 THE CITY 61
Returning to
the waves
It’s a major new sporting event that will become the most prestigious powerboat race in the world, says its organisers. Ahead of its London-based prologue, Richard Brown discovers how the Venture Cup is re-imagining powerboat racing for a new generation
sport
W
hen it comes to glamour in sport, Formula 1 has it covered. Think luxury brands, sunkissed tracks and super-yacht-infested marinas. For advertisers and racing aficionados alike, there can be few more appealing images than the 200mph machines that tear through the streets of Monaco, Melbourne and Singapore each year. Rewind to the 1970s, however, and there was another sport vying for the title of the planet’s most prestigious: powerboat racing. Believe it or not, four decades ago, motor racing and powerboat racing were on a level par across the world, each enjoying huge audiences and a global appeal. In fact, it was commonplace for the best drivers at the time to compete in both disciplines as, off the water, motorsport legends mingled with royalty and movie stars. It was only when Formula 1 built a new professional structure around itself in the 1970s, thanks in no small part to the endeavours of a one Bernie Ecclestone, that it pulled away from powerboat racing and became the number one name in desirable sport – a position that, according to the organisers of the Venture Cup, is about to come under threat. That’s the name of a new competition that in 2012 was announced would run as a series of ‘ultra-marathon’ offshore powerboat races every two years. Contested across 2,400 miles of the toughest conditions the ocean can muster, offshore of some of the most fashionable cities in the world, it’s an event that hopes to mirror the glitz and glamour of its land-based counterpart. “The Venture Cup brings back all of the wonderful glamour from the 70s, but
The Venture Cup brings back all of the wonderful glamour from the 70s, but delivers it in a contemporary model may 2013 THE CITY 63
sport
delivers it in a contemporary model,” explains Aidan Foley, the competition’s event director. “It’s a very different world now than it was back then, and we’ve got a lot more hoops to jump through in terms of health and safety and environmental matters – all of which we wholly embrace and champion. What hasn’t changed is the allure of a genuine adventure, something people can understand, enjoy, engage with, and possibly aspire to.” The first race proper of the Venture Cup is scheduled to take place in June 2014 from London to Monte Carlo (via Cowes) – a replica of what many consider to have been the greatest powerboat race ever held, the 1972 London to Monte Carlo meet. Before then, Londoners will get the chance to see what all the fuss is about courtesy of a prologue race setting off from the heart of the City. Commencing from Tower Bridge on 8 June, the prologue will see competitors take on a 750 nautical-mile adventure designed to allow the teams to test crews, boats, officials, processes and technologies in advance of the big race in 2014. The main race will involve distances and challenges that haven’t been faced by anyone in more than 40 years. As an event that takes place way out at sea across thousands of miles, Foley admits that, on paper, the Venture Cup isn’t the most spectator-friendly of sports. Instead, the organisers say, the Cup relies on the “awesome live experience” it offers fans watching online and on television and the appeal of the cities chosen to act as hosts.
64 THE CITY may 2013
“The first key elements are great start and finish locations,” says Foley. “We’ve got London as our start and Monte Carlo as our finish. London is the absolute ultimate start location for us, and always has been. The glamour of starting the race at Tower Bridge is going to stay forever in the minds of our spectators, racers and organisers.” Before the prologue race on 8 June, the Venture Cup event village will be open from Thursday 6 June at Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf. The glistening towers and shimmering docks of Europe’s foremost financial centre is somewhere Foley believes will provide a suitably vibrant backdrop to the inaugural race. “Canary Wharf is a truly amazing location. This is where the public can really get a sense of the event, where they can get up-close-and-personal with the greatest powerboats in the world. Wood Wharf is, without a doubt, the greatest venue in the greatest city we can think of. We’re really looking forward to showcasing what the Venture Cup is all about.” A total of 50 crews will take to the seas to compete for the Cup, which sees crew members crash through wave after wave for up to five hours a day, over 15 days. The brutal, bone-shaking marathon promises to push men and machines to the limit. “It’s very simple,” says Foley, “our race is truly one of the world’s greatest adventures. It’s brimming with challenge, risk, personality and bravery.” See the stars of the show in Canary Wharf from 6 June
The Venture Cup Prologue Race 2013 Thursday 6 June: Event Village at Wood Wharf, West India Dock, opens to the general public. Saturday 8 June: Leg 1 Race begins from Tower Bridge at 9am. From 11am the fleet arrives at Brighton for a mandatory stop. Leg 2 Brighton to Guernsey in the afternoon; Sunday 9 June Lay Day in Guernsey with a local festival, hospitality and various classes of powerboat racing. Monday 10 June: Leg 3 Race begins at 9am, fleet race around Channel Islands to St Cast. Leg 4 Fleet returns to Guernsey via the Channel Islands and the Guillot Passage in the afternoon. Tuesday 11 June: Leg 5 Race begins at 9am; fleet race north to UK South Coast, making their way to a finish-line at Bournemouth Pier, with final prize-giving and an event party in Poole.
Design by Philippe Starck
STARCK. A CLASSIC REVIVED.
Sanitaryware, bathroom furniture, bathtubs, shower trays, wellness products and accessories: Duravit has everything you need to make life in the bathroom a little more beautiful. More info at Duravit UK, Milton Keynes, Phone 0845 500 7787, Fax 0845 500 7786, info@uk.duravit.com, www.duravit.co.uk
The Ferrari FF grand tourer was pretty impressive to begin with, but Apple’s integration of its Siri-based ‘Eyes Free’ voice-command makes this car quite possibly the most user-friendly vehicle available. Now drivers can control the functions of their mobile phone by connecting it to the dashboard port then communicating with the application as you would a personal assistant sitting in the passenger’s seat. ferrari.com
i-candy
A complete guide to the best in techno wizardry and glorious gadgets
IT’S ON FIRE The Kindle Fire has been hot property since its launch, running the iPad closely for the accolade of best-selling HD tablet, so the announcement of the newest update, equipped with a huge 8.9-inch screen, has come as an exciting development. With extra screen space and a more powerful processor, watching films, reading books or playing games is so much simpler.
GALAXY QUEST The Samsung Galaxy S4 was unveiled on 14 March in New York, boasting a series of new features that make it the cutting-edge in smartphone technology. Besides the fact that it has ‘dual camera’ capabilities, ‘Smart Pause’ which allows the user to control the handset with their eyes and ‘Air’ capabilities for controlling the screen by using hand gestures, Samsung promises a slimmer yet sturdier build quality. samsung.com
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Fedor Selivanov / Shutterstock.com
SIRI INTEGRATION
gadgets
Three of the best... EARPHONES
1. Shure SE315 Sound Isolating Earphones, £202, shure.co.uk
2. Atomic Floyd SuperDarts +Remote, £199, atomicfloyd.com
RISE OF THE MACHINE A systemic computer network sounds as cerebral as it actually is. Essentially, what the University College London creation does is decide for itself, based on the data it collates, what it is going to do to make itself run more efficiently. Not only this, but it then records and remembers the information it has received as a human brain does. The scientists working on it are promising to improve its artificial intelligence even further. ucl.ac.uk
3. Klipsch S4i Rugged, £89.99, klipsch.co.uk
RADIO REVIVAL The 1950s wasn’t a period renowned for its flamboyancy; still, radio maker Roberts Radio’s nostalgic sentimentality for the period has seen it create a series of retro-styled DAB radios that are as usable as they are uncharacteristically colourful. The collection features a number of intelligent controls and several smart shades to choose from. robertsradio.co.uk
RAISING THE BAR Gone are the days of the clunky floor-covering speaker sets; Sonos is making sure of that. The new Playbar is an innovative and practical wireless system that immerses the listener in high quality sound. The soundbar is wall-mountable, easily connectable to a number of outputs and can be controlled by an app on your PC or smartphone. sonos.com
THE SMART SMARTPHONE Tag Heuer is certainly more famous for its prestigious timepieces than its telecommunications prowess, but the brand has still managed to translate its knowledge of style into creating this handsome phone. Its main feature is its classy alligator leather-clad build which stands out compared to the common aesthetics of smartphones. Tag Heuer Racer Prestige Gold, around £5,014, Tag Heuer, tagheuer.com
may 2013 THE CITY 67
The
Beautiful
Game
As the annual HPA Gaucho International Polo tournament returns to The O2 in May, Jamie Morrison, England polo captain, shares his experience of the thrills and spills of playing polo
Polo is often synonymous with grass pitches, sunshine and picnics – what does playing in an arena bring to the game? I actually think playing in an arena is much more exciting for the spectator! It’s very fast-paced and because you’re sitting within close proximity of the game you can feel the power and adrenalin close up. And what makes the O2 venue so special to play in? The O2’s become an iconic venue in London, both for music and sporting events, so I’m really excited to be playing again this year. It’s a unique place to play polo in. Would you like to see polo become as big as football in the UK? I don’t think it’s about competing with football – it’s a sport that has its own skill and appeal. I love encouraging more people to get into polo – so if anyone going to the Gaucho International at The O2 enjoys watching the match (which I’m sure they will do) then I’ll be happy. Even better if they fancy a go themselves – you just need to give your local club a call to try it out.
What has been the highlight of your career? Probably winning medals, including two gold medals at the FIP European championships. What about one of the most challenging moments? One of the most challenging times any sportsman faces is injury, as it usually means you can’t compete and there can be long recovery periods. I’ve had to tackle broken eye sockets, I’ve broken both kneecaps and I’ve had numerous hand injuries (amongst others) Recovering is such a huge challenge so overcoming each injury is a great achievement and very rewarding. Polo has always been synonymous with entertainment, food, wine, luxury – do you think this is an important aspect of the game? Absolutely – I think for spectators it’s such a great sport to watch. I recommend going with a group of friends, getting dressed up and making a day out of it – watching polo while tasting food and great wine, is fantastic fun. Where will the 2013 polo calendar be taking you? After the Gaucho International at the end of May, the UK polo season starts so I’ll be based in Berkshire over the summer. I’ll probably then head over to Spain and perhaps to Copenhagen for international matches. Jamie goes head to head with Argentine Captain Nacho Figueras at the upcoming HPA Gaucho International Polo at The O2 on 21 May. Tickets from £20, available at gauchopolo.com
sport
argentine inspiration Perhaps you’ve been lucky enough to visit the sultry South American gem of Argentina, enjoying juicy steak, full-bodied wine and a little polo while you’re there. You may have stumbled upon Nicolas Audebert’s Cheval des Andes estate, set within the beautiful wine region of Mendoza; surrounded by the vineyards and facing the Andes, you’ll also find a polo pitch right at its centre. That’s the Argentinian way. And luckily for us, we can get a taste a little closer to home at The O2 this summer.
Argentine captain Nacho Figueras & England captain Jamie Morrison
Don’t miss the third annual HPA Gaucho International Polo event at The O2 in London on Tuesday 21 May 2013 Tickets from £20, gauchopolo.com Follow the latest news on Gaucho Polo via social media: @gauchopolo @gauchogroup and facebook.com/Gauchointernationalpolo For further information contact: info@gauchopolo.com
We’ll be waiting with bated breath as the world’s greatest polo players fly in to The O2 to compete in this prestigious tournament. Through three international matches, players will be vying for the honour of taking home the championship on Tuesday 21 May 2013. Offering delicious South American food by Gaucho, live music and top DJs alongside the polo, there really is no better way to kick off the summer sporting season. As England take on the mighty Argentina at this year’s HPA Gaucho International Polo match, England captain Jamie Morrison will go mallet-to-mallet with Argentinian rival Nacho Figueras. We’ll be sipping on the local wines as we watch; the biggest consumer event ever staged in Europe and 50 of Argentina’s best wineries will fly over especially for the occasion, presenting more than 200 varieties. Veuve Clicquot will be creating a unique Champagne garden at the VIP after-party, held at Indigo2, while Tanqueray Gin will be hosting a ringside party and hospitality package. We’ll be taking up the Club Gaucho premium hospitality package which includes meeting the players, a Veuve Clicquot reception, VIP access to the arena and after-party. Post match, you’ll find us enjoying the Thames-side views on board the ‘Polo Express Clipper’ a 150 seater catamaran.
Jamie Morrison
- Sponsors IG will continue its sponsorship of Team England and are joined by Cheval des Andes a LVMH winery in Mendoza who will sponsor Team Argentina. La Martina and HR OWEN Maserati are also taking roles as official merchandising and official car partners. Royal Salute will be sponsoring Team Scotland, and sponsors of the opening match – between two teams captained by Thomas Kato and Yevgeny Chichvarkin – will be Merchant Hub and Hedonism Wines.
may 2013 THE CITY 69
We prefer not to be measured by dimensions. Unless it’s a new dimension of accuracy.
No fewer than four exceptional mechanisms enhance the precision of the RICHARD LANGE TOURBILLON “Pour le Mérite”: the tiny fusée-and-chain transmission, the delicate tourbillon, the ultra-thin Lange balance spring, and – not least – the patented stop-seconds device for the tourbillon which makes it possible to
set the watch with one-second accuracy in the first place. Never before has an A. Lange & Söhne watch been endowed with so many complications that simultaneously enhance its rate accuracy, settability, and readability. And so, this remarkable timepiece truly deserves the honorary attribute “Pour le Mérite”.
Arije 165, Sloane Street London • George Pragnell 5 and 6, Wood Street, Stratford-upon-Avon Hamilton & Inches 87, George Street, Edinburgh • Harrods 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London Watches of Switzerland 16, New Bond Street, London • Wempe 43-44, New Bond Street, London Lange Uhren GmbH • Tel. +34 91 454 89 82 • www.lange-soehne.com
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08.02.2012 15:52:48 Uhr
fashion
REPORT
lace
&
lust
We all know it’s what’s underneath that counts, writes AIMEE LATIMER, but do City boys know lingerie?
R
igby & Peller wants to ensure that buying lingerie for a beautiful woman is a pleasurable experience. The location of its recently opened store on Bow Lane is intended in part to encourage men to not only buy lingerie for their partners, but to buy with confidence. As the official lingerie fitters for the Royal family, Rigby & Peller is well-versed in tact and discretion, and its stylists can offer men unparalleled insight into choosing perfect pieces for their partners, based on their personality, typical wardrobe and body type,
from stunning ranges that are both elegant and seductive. This May, Rigby & Peller is also launching the SS13 swimwear collection across stores. Split into two lines, Ocean Drive and South Beach, the collection embodies the colours of the ocean with shades of navy and turquoise contrasted with pops of pink and purple. Crafted in Germany with signature Rigby & Peller quality, it embodies the cut and figure-enhancing tailoring gained from 70 years of experience, to make every woman feel as sexy lying by the pool as when dressed in her best lingerie. rigbyandpeller.co.uk
Look great, the Gatsby way
After being commissioned to create over five hundred ensembles for the Baz Luhrmann’s film The Great Gatsby, Brooks Brothers were so inspired they have embarked on their own limited-edition, Gatsby-themed menswear collection. Drawing influences from the film’s elaborate periodical set designs, they’ve created daywear pieces, which reflect the dreamlike green scenery, and formal pieces reflective of the lavish 1920s parties depicted in the film. If you want to look as sharp and dapper as DiCaprio, incorporate the Brooks Brothers collection into your wardrobe today. brooksbrothers.com
style: hIM
This season’s most wearable trends for the stylish man about town
Premium primping products
Shopping for all your grooming essentials can prove to be a timeconsuming task. This is why we love the new online company ‘Mensphere’, which hosts a range of luxurious products, from tried and tested classics such as Clarins Men, to the newest emerging brands like Tomfoolery. Their gifting suite offers shoppers the opportunity to curate their own bespoke gift boxes, which are tailor-made for the recipient, whether he’s a working, social or travelling man. The site features only the finest grooming and accessory products, many of which are sold exclusively through Mensphere. mensphere.com
news
Grooming Gurus Gone are the days where the more metrosexual of men is the only one catered for in grooming. British-manufactured Scaramouche & Fandango is a new brand designed with all men in mind. The brand’s sleek new range features six products including shampoo, facial scrubs and shaving creams. The products boast simplicity and style, opting against complex ingredients, artificial fragrances and elaborate packaging, to focus more on providing the modern gentleman with a line of the finest trusted products. scaramoucheandfandango.com
Bravo beautification
Although acid-based grooming products may sound quite off putting, the science behind the products proves that they are not as scary as they sound. Because male skin is generally tougher than women’s, and needs agents which penetrate the skin with ease, Bravura’s acidic-based products offer unparalleled skincare, as they replenish damaged skin cells, saving time on longer regimes which often don’t work. Great if you’re a man fed up with ineffective skincare, and don’t mind incorporating a good facial routine into your day-to-day grooming. bravuralondon.com
Rain Rain Go away Man bag When choosing the right bag, men have to walk the thin line between risqué and effeminate. This is why most men choose to not stray away from the classic choice of a leather tote bag. Marlborough World specialises in creating the finest handmade leather bags, each manufactured in the UK, to ensure the highest standards of craftsmanship. The best way to smarten an outfit is by adding a timeless leather classic, and a Marlborough bag will do just that.
Growing-up in small fishing community in Estonia, Oliver Ruuger showed promise early as a craftsman, constructing his own toys by hand as a child. After years of honing his skills, he cemented himself as a master craftsman of luxury menswear accessories. His creations are bold and executed with sculptural precision; each piece is constructed using only the most premium materials, exquisitely hand-designed for the fashionforward City man. oliverruuger.com
marlboroughworld.com
Permanent Marker
For every Montblanc ‘Signature For Good’ product sold between 1 March 2013 and 31 March 2014, Montblanc will donate part of the proceeds to support UNICEFS’s education programmes. Each piece in the collection is individually numbered and when registered can be used to monitor the initative’s progress. Meisterstuck Signature For Good Classique Fountain Pen, £410 Montblanc, Royal Exchange, EC3V
may 2013 THE CITY 73
power PLAY
This spring, City boys and girls are opting for classic suits, with strong structures and muted colours in black, blues and greys, for a look that inspires confidence Stylist Francesca Barrow Photographer Gianni Diliberto
Him: Shirt, £220, Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com; Trousers, £POA, Ermanno Scervino, ermannoscervino.it; La Dolce Vita mosaic tie (worn as belt), £75, Mark/Giusti, markgiusti.com; Oxford shoes in pink, £585, Manolo Blahnik, manoloblahnik.com. Her: Black silk blazer with silk lapel, £1950, Tom Ford, tomford.com; Trousers £253, Alberta Ferretti, albertaferretti.com; Silk gazar pink bow, £400, Christian Dior, dior.com; Bufalona shoes £670, Manolo Blahnik, as before. Bentley Continental GTC W12 in heather, £POA, bentleymotors.com
XXXXXX
xxxxxxxx 2013 THE CITY 75
Blazer, £POA, Trousers, £POA ,both Ermmano Scervino, as before; The Stole Hero scarf in Shark 100% silk twill, £125, Jane Carr, jane-carr.com; Altiplano skeleton watch, £34,000, Piaget, en.piaget.com
Him: Suit, £POA, Ermanno Scervino, as before; The Pearly King Necker scarf in Claret 100% silk twill £160, Jane Carr, as before; 1953 loafer in brown leather with horsebit detail, £390, Gucci, gucci.com; Altiplano skeleton watch, as before. Her: White silk jacket, £1540, White silk trousers, £690, both Tom Ford, as before; The Pearly King Necker in Coal 100% silk twill, £160, Jane Carr as before; Maldiva shoes in black satin, £400, Manolo Blahnik, as before; Gouverneur watch, £30,000, Piaget, as before.
Him: Suit & Shirt, £POA, both Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com; La Dolce Vita mosaic tie, £75, The Gatsby mosaic pocket square, £65, and Milano Rigid laptop bag, £775, all Mark/Giusti, as before; Diamante shoes in white/black, £600, Manolo Blahnik, as before; Altiplano skeleton watch, £34,400, as before. Her: Suit, Shirt & Tie, £POA, all Ralph Lauren, as before; Bring Back Time mosaic pocket square, £65,Mark/Giusti as before; Diamantina shoes in white/black, £550, Manolo Blahnik as before; Gouverneur watch, £30,000, as before.
XXXXXX Him: Tropez silk cotton popeline dandy jacket with half plain lining, £1280, 1953 loafer in white leather with horsebit detail, £340, both Gucci; Shirt, £POA, Ralph Lauren, as before; Altiplano skeleton watch, £34,400, as before. Her: Blazer, £509, Alberta Ferretti, as before; White silk trousers, £690, Black patent shoes with gold heel, £980, both Tom Ford, as before. Creative Director & Stylist: Francesca Barrow at faconner.co.uk Photographer: Gianni Diliberto Hair Stylist: Takanori Yamaguchi using Bumble and Bumble Makeup Artist: Keiko Nakamura Models: George at Models1 and Lily at Bookings Location: The Oscar Wilde suite at The Cadogan, 75 Sloane Street, London SW1X 9SG, 0207 235 7141, cadogan.com Car supplied courtesy of Bentley Motors Ltd.
xxxxxxxx 2013 THE CITY 79
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City
XXXXXX HEALTH PROMOTION
COULD WORKING TOO HARD LEAD TO
HEARTBREAK?
E
HCA Hospitals unite to highlight the impact long hours and associated behaviour patterns could be having on your heart health
ver extending working hours, desk bound with no time for a lunch break and networking late into the night…as a nation we are now putting in the longest working hours in Europe, with the average week totalling up to a massive 42.7 hours, discounting the overtime that often goes un-documentedi. This desire to keep up with the competition and reach targets at all costs can see many pushed to the point of exhaustion, an issue that has a resounding impact on overall health. In fact, recent studies have shown that those working longer than the traditional eight hours had at least a 40% greater chance of developing heart diseaseii. Experts link these working hours to an increase in stress, and a correlated tendency to engage in negative behaviours that directly impact heart health. NEGATIVE COPING MECHANISMS Dr Wyn Davies, Consultant Cardiologist at The Harley Street Clinic outlines the activities that could be impacting your heart health. Smoking: Whilst lighting up may act as a stress diffuser throughout the day, smoking favours the development of cholesterol deposits in the linings of the arteries, making this a particularly damaging habit when it comes to matters of the heart. Convenience Eating: Working late at the office often sees workers swap nutritious home cooked meals for convenience in the form of high in saturated fat, ready meals. These unhealthy food choices lead to weight gain and increased cholesterol levels, both of which increase the risk of cardiac disease. Turning To The Bottle: Alcohol can become a source of relief for the over worked employee, but drinking too much can increase blood pressure and lead to weight gain, both of which directly impact the risk of heart disease developing. Sleep Disruption: Constant worrying about impending deadlines can lead to chronic sleep deprivation, a condition that is associated with calcium build-up in the arteries. This build-up can constrict the amount of oxygen that reaches your heart, increasing the likelihood of having a heart attack.
REDUCING THE RISK Dr David Lipkin, Consultant Cardiologist at The Wellington Hospital explains the importance of tackling these negative coping mechanisms head on: “Ideally, those under intense stress need to take a step back and analyse their work/life balance. In many cases simply working less will provide a new lease on life, but for those who have to put in extra hours, working from home can help to put employees in a relaxed state, ensuring a more positive frame of mind is achieved. If you’re feeling under pressure choosing behaviours that would in fact benefit health, as opposed to harm it are vital. Taking up a new form of exercise over hitting the pub for example can ensure you channel your negative energy into something productive.” SEEKING HELP Dr Michael Erwin Jan Wise, Consultant Psychiatrist at London Bridge Hospital expands on when workers should seek professional assistance: “Many workers are placed under demands they simply cannot cope with, if this extends for a long period of time the stress will undoubtedly cause behavioural change. If you notice this is going on for more than a couple of weeks, it’s causing you problems, and you can’t change it yourself, then it’s time to see a therapist. A therapist can help you to evaluate your lifestyle and hone in on what is truly important, providing you with the techniques to manage your work/life priorities in a way that won’t cause future cardiac complications later down the line.”
IF YOU ARE WORRIED ABOUT YOUR HEART HEALTH, YOU CAN MAKE AN APPOINTMENT AT ONE OF HCA’S OUTSTANDING HOSPITALS; LONDON BRIDGE HOSPITAL, THE HARLEY STREET CLINIC, AND THE WELLINGTON HOSPITAL BY VISITING WWW.HEARTCARELONDON.CO.UK OR CALLING 0843 249 7820. i http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2201519/Working-hours-day-raises-risk-heartdisease-80.html ii http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2201519/Working-hours-day-raises-risk-heartdisease-80.html
xxxxxxxx MAY 2013 2013 THE THE CITY CITY 81 81
13:58
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Do you have a stressful career? Do you ever think you might be at risk from heart problems? If so, it’s time for a check up. Don’t leave it too late.
Call this number to book an appointment with one of the country’s leading heart specialists
0843 249 7820
HCA Hospitals – World-Class Healthcare www.heartcarelondon.co.uk
Model used for illustrative purposes only
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27/03/2013 17:20
news
Elegant evening wear Black-tie events call for you to put your best fashion foot forward, and you won’t miss a step with the dramatic gowns from Morella Sassoon’s new evening wear collection. Using only the best materials, flowing gowns and sassy cocktail dresses in silk, satin, tulle and lace are an enchanting option for a night out. morellasassoon.com
Perfect pastels Be glamorous and elegantly graceful this summer with the exclusive range of pastel dresses designed by fashion favourites. These soft pastels serve as a refreshing palette switch from the dark and iridescent colours that have plagued our prolonged winter fashions. As an extra feel-good bonus, each product carries a 30 per cent donation to breast cancer charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer. fashiontargetsbreastcancer.org.uk
style: her This season’s most wearable trends for the chicest woman about town
Hot Hipster fashions Step away from the crash diets – Heidi Klein’s High Summer collection is a flattering range of beautiful swimwear, with smooth lines, one-pieces and kaftans to suit every shape. Inspired by Klein’s global travels, each piece carries a little piece of local culture with it, with vibrant reds inspired by Mumbai and deep lagoon blues evoking the Saint Lucia sea. Now you can not only look your best, but boast on postcards home of how culturally cognisant you’ve become. heidiklein.com
Crème de la crème High-end beauty brand Crème De La Mer has us swooning for its new oceanic-themed product designs. The limited edition line has been created to commemorate World Oceans Day, with the company donating proceeds from the products to the ocean conservation charities Oceana and the Blue Marine Foundation. Crème De La Mer has successfully married its philanthropy with fashion-forward design style, as the Project Ocean lip balms are lavishly embellished with Swarovski crystals, specifically to raise awareness for Selfridges’ Project Ocean insignia. The deep sea-themed beauty products go on sale exclusively in Selfridges from 1 June. cremedelamer.co.uk
may 2013 THE CITY 83
Exclusive Modern Furniture Made in Germany
Harrods Heal’s
3rd Floor Knightsbridge | www.hulsta-harrods.co.uk
1st Floor Tottenham Court Road | www.hulsta-heals.co.uk
Hülsta-Westend Hülsta-Bristol
23-25 Baker Street | www.westend.hulsta.co.uk
33 Wine Street, Bristol | www.bristol.hulsta.co.uk
www.hulsta.co.uk | the german furniture brand
Hulsta_C-Wharf_City_Oct11.indd 1
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news
Scene Stealer Boca Do Lobo’s furniture is handcrafted in Portugal to an exacting standard of quality and creativity. The limited-edition new Diamond Emerald sideboard captures the shape of a precious jewel and its emerald shade is one of the principal colour trends of 2013. To colour the sideboard a luxurious emerald, silver leaf was painstakingly coated in an emerald hue before being coated with high gloss varnish. The new sideboard features three highly sculptured doors that open to a dazzling gold leaf interior with practical shelving and drawers. The metallic base is made from mahogany, lined with bronze mirror. Diamond Emerald Sideboard, £POA, bocadolobo.com
Firm Backing
Chaplins specialises in retailing a mixture of minimalist furniture alongside bold statement pieces. For nearly 20 years the company has been actively discovering the world’s best designers and bringing their work to the UK. One such brand is Cerruti Baleri whose new Louis XV Goes To Sparta chair is designed by Maurizio Galante and Tal Lancman. It is covered in silk that was been digitally printed to look like marble. The body of the chair is covered in foam of varied densities. Louis XV Goes To Sparta, £4,555, chaplins.co.uk
interiors
Give your abode the attention it deserves with a stylish, seasonal spruce-up
Colour Clarity
Turn Left
Ralph Lauren Home has launched the Left Bank Collection. The collection’s new furniture and fabrics capture a refined mix of comfort and industrial conceptualism in a mature palette of faded navy, beige and heavy oak. The range is a boldly raw and masculine transition for Ralph Lauren Home, which is better known for its signature preppy aesthetic. The new direction has resulted in a sophisticated and stripped-down collection of choice furniture.
Waterford Crystal has launched Mixology, a new barware range that has introduced an array of colours into Waterford’s luxury crystal. Waterford takes its name from the Irish harbour town where, over 200 years ago, it was first opened by two brothers, William and George Penrose. They had a vision to ‘create the finest quality crystal for drinking vessels and objects of beauty for the home.’ The Mixology collection retains that ethos of quality but is also playful, stepping away from Waterford’s traditional style by combining four new designs with four new vibrant colours; tablon red, neon lime green, circa purple and argon blue. Top: Echo decanter in Argon Blue, £240; Below: Mixology Collection, from £115, uk.wwrd.com
ralphlaurenhome.com
may 2013 THE CITY 85
Abstract Malachite wallpaper, £215 per 12m roll, Designers Guild, designersguild.com
Woods, £67 per 10m roll, Cole & Son, cole-and-son.com
the big 5:
statement wallpaper The Lotus Paper, £98 per 10m roll, Farrow & Ball, farrow-ball.com
Komodo, £96 per roll, Osborne & Little, osborneandlittle.com
Change the dynamic of a bland room instantly with luxurious wallpaper from some of the best in the business
ELCHO, £49 per roll, Nina Campbell, osborneandlittle.com
interiors Heritage Boy, Tile Lamp Large, £1,950
the designer:
timothy oulton Timothy Outlon has combined his reverence of traditional craftsmanship with his excitement for modern design to transform his eponymous line into a global brand, says AIMEE LATIMER
T
imothy Oulton fell into the furniture industry after becoming enamoured with the craftsmanship of the pieces he sold while working for his father’s Halo Antiques business. Despite five successful years of selling restored items in the US, he believed there was no longterm future in the antiques trade and so took control of the company, changing its focus to blending traditional handcraftsmanship with a modern point of view. Its subsequent roaring success encouraged him to create his own line of pieces focusing on unique and clever design: “People are exposed to a wide range of designs these days. Our customer is someone who is looking for individuality and authenticity.”
These individual and authentic designs were instantly successful and now there are more than 30 Timothy Oulton stores worldwide. This year, Timothy Oulton has launched two new themes into his collection, Composer and Brighton Beach. The expressive Composer is inspired by the skittish passions of classical and modern musicians and, like music, contains contrasting elements that, when layered, together work in perfect harmony. Brighton Beach is a relaxed antidote to Composer, inspired by breezy beach culture and vintage cars, it combines nautical-inspired upholstery with rugged reclaimed timber furniture. timothyoulton.com / harrods.com
may 2013 THE CITY 87
SING WHILE YOU’RE SPINNING This spring, JDRF is set to host its fifth series of bike-a-thons across the UK, and this year’s ‘Spin to Cure Diabetes’ London event is taking place right outside The Royal Exchange. The competition will challenge teams of five (who must each raise £500 to take part) to test their metal on the static spin bikes, where each competitor will battle through an eight-minute interval sprint. JDRF is a charity dedicated to
another side to Bob Dylan ↑ Bob Dylan may be best known for being a singer-songwriter, but over the years he’s
finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes, and improving the lives of sufferers until a cure is discovered. And they know what they’re talking about; the charity is run by people with Type 1, for people with Type 1. For more than four decades, JDRF has been at the forefront of development, finding new ways to treat the condition, and working towards being able to halt, prevent and reverse the disease.
created a widely unknown, but incredibly impressive portfolio of visual art. This spring, The Royal Exchange’s Artisan Gallery will be hosting a retrospective of some of his most impressive and rare work, including limited edition and sold-out graphics. While touring between 1989 and 1992, Dylan created sketches, and in 1994 published them in a book called ‘Drawn Blank’. These sketches were then transformed using watercolours and gouache ahead of the release of the collection, first exhibited in 2006. Dylan works by painting several versions of the same image using
www.tHeroyalexcHange.co.uk
CITY MAG May 13.indd All Pages
Louise Ingham, JDRF’s regional development manager for London, said: “We are very excited about this year’s Spin to Cure Diabetes and look forward to cheering on teams in London. Everyone who takes part will be making a valuable contribution to our research, which aims to cure, treat and prevent this condition that has a life-long impact on those diagnosed with it and their families.”
different colours and tones. The resulting creations offer a variety of impressions and therefore showcase a mixture of emotions and interpretations on the same subject. A carefully selected collection of Dylan’s work has been curated and published as a series of signed, limited edition graphics, enabling collectors and art lovers with smaller budgets to access his work. The retrospective will be on show in the Artisan Gallery in the rear portico of The Royal Exchange from Monday 15 April. For more information, pop in to the gallery or visit their website. castlegalleries.com
promotion
SIX OF THE BEST
geared up ↑
wide Boy ↑
lavender lovely ↑
Tateossian’s new cufflinks are a tribute to the company’s signature elements of motion and movement, with each one featuring an intricate and ornate set of moving gears, much like the inner workings of a watch. The multi-coloured cogs rotate freely within their Perspex case, and are available in either rhodium, red or blue colourways, perfect for those with, shall we say, complicated tastes. Gear Round Cufflink, £110
The James is Harrys of London’s ‘anatomical’ shaped loafer, and one of their most popular styles. Perfect for the gentleman with a wider foot or those who prefer a roomier shoe, the James is made from soft French calfskin, making it less prone to creasing at your foot’s natural stress points. Pictured here in porcelain blue, the James is hand-antiqued for added character. James Loafer, £395
One of Theo Fennell’s very first designs, the Bombé Ring has become one of his iconic pieces. Handcrafted in his Fulham workshop, the ring features a central 4.9ct lavender Tourmaline stone with triangular 1.07ct diamonds either side, all set in a band of 18kt yellow and white gold. The ring is available in a number of different versions, including one with a brown diamond with rhodium detailing. Bombé Ring, £12,950
Heaven Scent ↑
By royal appointment ↑
Skin Saviour ↑
Penhaligon’s Ellenisia Eau de Parfum was first created almost ten years ago, and remains one of the brand’s flagship fragrances to this day. It’s a floral scent that carries base notes of plum nectar and vanilla. As with all Penhaligon’s products, it’s made in England using only the finest rare ingredients and is contained within the iconic Penhaligon’s bottle. Penhaligon’s Ellenisia Eau de Parfum, £95/100ml
Gucci’s Flora Print was originally created in 1966 for Princess Grace of Monaco following a visit to the Via Monte Napoleone store, and has now been modernised for the Cruise 2013 collection. It was originally commissioned by Rodolfo Gucci as a gift for the princess and, designed by artist Vittorio Accornero. The Boston bag is a top-handled tote made of canvas, with a contrasting leather trim. Flora Boston Bag, £710
Drawing on more than 150 years of skincare expertise, Kiehl’s has created a BB cream (‘blemish balm’) that’s like no other on the market. Based on the original German formula from the Fifties, the new cream corrects skin tone irregularities, evens skin tone coverage, hydrates and even has built-in SPF 50 UVA protection. This luxurious product really is a miracle all-in-one treatment. Kiehl’s BB Cream, £23.50
Agent ProvocAteur • ArtisAn Fine Art gAllery • BAchet • Boodles • BvlgAri • church’s • crockett & Jones • grAnd cAFÉ • gucci • hArrys oF london • hermÈs imPeriAl city • Jo mAlone london • Jones lAng lAsAlle • kiehl’s since 1851 • koJis • loewe • loro PiAnA • lulu guinness • l’occitAne • mezzAnine lounge molton Brown • montBlAnc • omegA • PAul A. young Fine chocolAtes • PAul smith • PAvArotti’s • PenhAligon’s • Pretty BAllerinAs • royAl exchAnge Jewellers sAge Brown Fine leAther • seArle & co Jewellers • sAuterelle restAurAnt • smoker’s PArAdise • smythson • tAteossiAn • theo Fennell • tiFFAny & co. vileBrequin • wAtches oF switzerlAnd • wAtchFinder & co.
the royAl exchAnge, BAnk, city oF london, ec3v 3lr. store trAding hours 10Am – 6Pm. restAurAnts & BArs 8Am – 11Pm
15/04/2013 15:08
Polo as you’ve never seen it before TICKETS NOW ON SALE gauchopolo.com
BREWING COMPANY
FOOD
DRINK
The best fine dining has to offer, right on your doorstep
Light Nights The magnificent Grade II listed restaurant, 1901, at the Andaz Liverpool Street hotel has launched Candlelight Evenings. Inside 1901, guests dine against a stunning backdrop of over 350 glowing candles laid across the former ballroom of the five-star hotel. Diners can enjoy an extensive menu, accompanied by live guitar music, for a beautifully atmospheric and memorable night. Complete the experience with a stay in the boutique hotel. liverpoolstreet.andaz.hyatt.com
Fast & Lazy This month sees the launch of Lazybones, a laid-back and stylish hang-out just off Cowcross Street that promises to serve up fast, fuss free, lip-smacking food and drinks in the heart of Farringdon. The splattering of grey and yellow graphics that slide from the ceilings onto the walls makes the interior alone worth a visit. Food is ordered at the bar and collected from the kitchen hatch for fast-food efficiency at restaurant quality. Offerings include pulled-pork sandwiches, spicy wings, falafel wraps and a wide range of hot and cold drinks. Lazybones has a no reservations policy so it may be worth calling in advance to suss out your chances of getting seated. lazybones.uk.com / 020 7250 3336
Aperitivo Time L’Anima bar in the heart of the City is a full-blooded Italian establishment where food and drink play a role that is more than mere sustenance, says Daniel Engelsman as he tries out the new Aperitivo menu The minimalist décor at L’Anima is cool and bright, neatly offset as the sun dips behind the horizon by tranquil mood lighting. In the corner of the bar is a live music duo playing tonal jazz which echoes harmoniously around the room. The crowd seems at first to be strictly business, but it is clear that the well-clad professionals are here to wind down and relish in the culinary and sonic delights. The relaxed ambience means L’Anima would also serve well as a
good place to meet a date after a busy day at the office. The highly professional service is not only attentive but also well-informed, offering us tailored concoctions and even forecasts for summer trends – one of which is that Aperol is set to be the summer’s new favourite beverage, clinching the title from Pimms due to its refreshing flavour. The menu of bitter cocktails (some more than others) are each served with a complimentary edible choice of small plates from the finger food menu. Favourites of ours included the saffron arancini, the meatballs and the mini pizzas. Flavour-wise, the most outstanding and unusual taste note was the chilli jam that accompanied the calamari. For something sweet and bubbly, the Aperol Spritz is indeed the perfect refresher and for the more adventurous and experienced palate, I recommend the Negroni. Wash down the bitter taste with a sour-sweet shot of Limoncello, and you’re ready for dinner. 1 Snowden St , Broadgate West, EC2A lanima.co.uk
news
High Table Early this May, Rainer Becker, the founder of Zuma and Roka restaurants, is opening Oblix on the 32nd floor of The Shard. Oblix’s New York grill style menu is an exciting departure from Rainer’s previous background in Japanese cuisine. The Oblix’s main restaurant will serve a mixture of grilled dishes and American classics, while the bar and lounge area will offer lighter appetisers with accompanying live music. Head chef Fabien Beaufour counts The French Laundry and Eleven Madison Park on his resume, putting him in a good position to deliver the restaurant’s ethos of quality, precision and consistency. For the final touch of class, the front of house team’s uniforms are designed by British fashion house Ted Baker. the-shard.com/restaurants
Making its mark Blueprint Cafe in the Design Museum near London Bridge is a great hidden riverside gem, says Emma Johnson
A Beautiful Anomaly For only the second time in their history, Louis XIII have unveiled a Rare Cask. Named after the cognac’s distinctive level of proof, The Louis XIII Rare Cask 42,6 was discovered by renowned cellar master Pierrette Trichet. She realised the batch was a Rare Cask on noticing its high alcohol content and distinct bouquet of aromas. A Rare Cask occurs when a beautiful series of accidents in nature affects and transforms a cognac in a way that can never be reproduced by man. Stunningly presented in a precious black Baccarat crystal bottle with a crystal stopper, only 738 decanters of the precious anomaly have been made. Louis XIII Rare Cask 42,6, £15,000 harrods.com
“Summer is really really here!” we cry as we take our seats outside on the terrace – yes, outside; and yes, on the terrace. The beautifully welcoming and warm interior of the Blueprint Café boasts sofas and generous tables, nearly all of them with views of Tower Bridge, but right now we are headed for the fresh air and delights of sipping a glass of bubbles and taking our first deep breaths of spring air. The atmosphere is intimate and friendly and the novelty of sitting outside gazing at the view takes a while to wear off. Finally tearing our eyes away from Tower Bridge as the sun sets and lights begin to twinkle throughout the City, we peruse a menu that focuses on the trend du jour in London restaurants – seasonal produce, locally-sourced and simple and elegantly put together. Mark Jarvis (previously at the divine Texture in Mayfair) has created a menu that has somewhat of a seafood bias, which feels quite right when perched next to the river, with Billingsgate a couple of miles downriver in Poplar; but there is also plenty of game and meat to be found here too. Starters offer light, fresh flavours – cauliflower soup, scallops, smoked salmon and soufflé – while main courses range from the classy and healthy barley risotto or beetroot tart tartin to pork chops and lamb leg steaks. Seated comfortably inside, still gazing at the now illuminating Tower Bridge, the mini sausages and mash we have to start with (chorizo, sweet red onions and smoky paprika potatoes) are a perfect accompaniment to the lovely bottle of Rioja Crianza that our sommelier selects for us – warm and smooth, with rich fruit, it is bold enough to hold its own against the Cheddar soufflé we also order. Main courses are suitably fish-themed with whole wild bream served as it should be, just lightly covered in capers, lemon and parsley – the soft flesh of the fish expertly grilled; while line-caught cod and fennel salad is crisp and pungent. We have some smoked pomme puree as a side dish, a rich and definitely smoky treat that I am still dreaming about now. Desserts of Bakewell tart and panna cotta are as simple and sweet as we would wish them to be, followed with a pot of fresh mint tea. The Blueprint Café is a perfect place for a summer’s evening out – delightful service, lovely food and a classic London setting. The Blueprint Café Design Museum London SE1 blueprintcafe.co.uk
may 2013 THE CITY 93
drink
The fallacy of the
New World No longer does France, Italy or Spain dominate the choices available for wine drinkers. New World wines are the new cool, says James Lawrence
F
ifty years ago in the most upscale restaurants, across London and the UK, your wine selection was generally limited to perhaps Burgundy, famous Bordeaux names, German Riesling and a few bottles from Rioja or Tuscany – if you were lucky! Fast forward to 2013 and there has never been as many choices for the oenophile; more wines from more countries, better wines and wines made from grape varieties that until recently, no one had ever heard of. In the mid-80s New Zealand appeared on our wine lists, by the 90s Chile was gaining a foothold and as the 90s progressed, South African and Argentinian wines were making headway in the UK. These were the ‘invaders’ from the so-called New World – in other words, wines from countries outside the traditional vine-growing areas of Europe. Their pedigree had not been established in the mindsets of many consumers, but they did offer intense fruit flavours and a price that didn’t upset your wallet. Now ‘New World’, the often quoted catch-all term, appears hopelessly outdated and even slightly patronising. Take Chile and Australia for example – Chile’s viticultural history began in the mid-16th century with the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors. By the 19th century both Chile and Australia had extensive vineyard planting, in 1831 a total of 19 million vines were planted in Chile. These countries have been producing high quality wines for many, many decades – hardly novices to the wine business. And their wines are nearly always better value. So if there is a New World today then it certainly doesn’t reside in South America or Australia, rather we should look toward India, China, Eastern Europe and even Costa Rica. Sula wines for example, a mere three hours’ drive from Mumbai, were established in 1999 and their Chenin Blanc wines can now be found in Indian restaurants across London. This is the true ‘New World’ of wine – newcomers to wine production who are slowly starting to export and appear in our stores and wine bars. They have a long way to go but are showing much promise. The really exciting thing is that the consumer can now enjoy their favourite clarets and Burgundies for a fraction of the price. Established regions like Hawkes Bay in New Zealand and Oregon in North America are full of derivatives – wines made to emulate their European counterparts as closely as possible.
94 THE CITY may 2013
alternatives to the EUROPEAN superstars: If you enjoy expensive white Burgundy, try Cullen Chardonnay, Margaret River, Western Australia This superb Chardonnay from the coolclimate Margaret River region shows great finesse, elegance and structure, all for at least half of the price of a top Montrachet. If you enjoy Classified Growth Bordeaux, try Te Mata Coleraine, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand Coleraine is one of the finest left bank Bordeaux blends I have ever sampled; outside Bordeaux. At a fraction of the price of a top Cru Class, you get an exquisite wine. If you enjoy Grand Cru red Burgundy, try Ata Rangi Pinot Noir, Martinborough, New Zealand Ata Rangi’s Pinot Noir shows a depth and complexity that most Kiwi Pinots only hint at – a sublime, structured, red fruit-driven Pinot Noir that will make Burgundy lovers swoon. If you enjoy Rhone Valley wines, try Vina Tamaya Syrah Reserva, Limari, Chile Chile is a relative newcomer to Syrah, but this example from the Tamaya estate in the Limari valley shows real class and elegance, all for under £12 at Berry Bros.
LET THE SUN SHINE
The new terrace at The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant in Knightsbridge is the ideal destination for summer. A secluded and sophisticated venue for morning coffee or light meals, the terrace becomes a cigarist’s paradise in the evening with an extensive choice of whisky, cocktails and wine complementing a new cigar menu. For more information visit theribroom.co.uk or call 020 7858 7250 Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 9PY
12-06-15, City magazine - RR bar ad v3.indd 1
18/06/2012 17:04:52
drink
A Great
Chris Murray looks at the cocktail bar, an American import to London as far back as the 1880s, and a sophisticated pastime to this day
Tradition may 2013 THE CITY 97
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t’s hardly rocket science – blending two or more ingredients, including an alcoholic spirit, and coming up with a suitably adventurous name. The origins of the cocktail as a generic name though seem to be a matter of controversy. One version has it that an 18th century Virginian bar owner, one Betsy Flanagan, was responsible for the term as she used cockerel feathers to identify mixed drinks. Well...maybe... but one thing is sure – the cocktail as a concept is an entirely American invention. The original idea of the cocktail bar as a specific entity seems to have occurred in the mid-19th century and became immediately popular. The whole romance behind the invention and concoction of the mixed drink, not to mention the extras in the form of various paraphernalia – such as the different mixing vessels and of course the tiny umbrella, not to mention the flamboyant preparation – caught the imagination of the drinking public. There were definitely peaks and troughs in the popularity of cocktails after the initial enthusiasm of the late 19th century. Two world wars, a global depression and Prohibition were hardly minor obstacles. Paradoxically, however, Prohibition, which befell the United States in 1920, was seen as a challenge by those who sought to circumvent the law, and the cocktail was not conspicuous in its absence behind closed doors and the faux respectability of the illegal speakeasy drinking dens. The Cocktail Bar (or American Bar) was soon to be seen across the Atlantic, in Paris and London in particular. By the 1880s the cocktail bar was a fixture in Victorian London’s West End. Usually attached to a hotel, restaurant or theatre, these venues became the preserve of the fast set, the younger men and their rakish elders. By
Edwardian times women were more likely to be seen inside, either in small groups or on the arms of their beaux, but never on their own of course. But just what is a cocktail bar? Historically they came in all shapes and sizes but had a few things in common: the bar staff were often in livery or at least smart dress. There would be a large selection of drinks and mixers, often of a hard-to-get variety and of
high quality. There would be an expectation that the customer would enter into the spirit of the whole thing and dress accordingly. The decor would be suitably smart. A classic American cocktail bar was to be found at Piccadilly Circus at the Criterion Restaurant conceived by the chief caterers of the day, Spiers & Pond. It was the first American-style bar in London and it was run by an American to boot, one Leo Engel who went on to write an early drinks manual in 1880, American and Other Drinks.
By 1889 the decor included an impressive eagle in gold leaf with talons holding forked lightning, carved cupids and marble tables. So much for Victorian restraint... Happily, you may still today enjoy a cocktail in the opulence of the Long Bar at The Criterion, which even now has a whiff of the old school about it. The American Bar at The Savoy Hotel on The Strand was another early cocktail venue with a celebrity bar tender, Ada Coleman, who in the early 1900s went on to create the Hanky-Panky cocktail (in a cocktail shaker over ice pour half and half Italian Vermouth, dry gin and two dashes of Fernet Branca, garnish with orange peel). She went on to serve this and other mixtures to the wealthy and famous of the day. After the lean years of post-World War Two, the cocktail bar began to flourish again in the capital. The City has not always been the vibrant buzzy night spot it is now; not so long ago, thanks to antediluvian drinking laws, office workers were more likely to enjoy a soporific boozy lunch than venture out after their day of work was done. Most of the drinking options were pubs or tired wine bars and they closed at 9pm. These days, thanks to more sensible legislation, a culture of refined evening dining and drinking has grown up in the area alongside a more discernible clientele. Needless to say, one must be prepared to dip one’s hand in one’s pocket, but finding a comfortable and enjoyable cocktail bar is one of life’s little pleasures. There are plenty of good venues out there and the following are simply a sample waiting to be tried. Slap bang next to Mansion House, The Bar at 1 Lombard Street is a great daytime destination for a mixed drink or two. The space is spectacularly airy and light with the sunlight shining down through the glass rotunda. Service is from a central island and the neutral colour scheme
drink
and subdued acoustics make for a really comfortable cocktail adventure; as with many places in the City, it’s open Monday to Friday. The Whistling Shop in Worship Street, just inside Shoreditch, has a whiff of Victorian punk about it, or perhaps puts one in mind of an unseen room in the Tardis. It is the second offering from Fluid Movement, an enterprise very much at the forefront of where grown-up drinking may go next (its first venture Purl, is in Marylebone) and signifies an attempt to reconstruct what is meant by a drinks bar. The idea is to look back fondly at the past and to reimagine today, not being reticent in employing ‘spherification, cryogenics and the ageing of cocktails’. Blimey. My current favourite in the City area is the Old Bengal Bar, an olive stone’s throw away from Liverpool Street Station in New Street. Of course atmosphere is mercurial and one person’s busy vibe is another’s overcrowded nightmare but this place seems to get it right. Its size is perfect – not too intimate for a raucous, chatty evening, nor too big to turn into a charnel house. The decor is bare brick, faux marble-top and a wall of mirrors – but good luck finding the door to the facilities in the wall, by the way. The staff is committed and happy to talk mixology. Be prepared for an adventure.
1 Lombard Street
The Wprship Street Whistling Shop
Old Bengal Bar
Old Bengal Bar
may 2013 THE CITY 99
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travel
REPORT
take an
ivacation
With technology becoming ever more ubiquitous, Di Davidson-Amadi investigates the holiday destinations that have embraced the gadget-age
W
orld Travel Market’s 2012 industry report included a survey designed to demonstrate our technological addiction, which showed that of 1,001 British travellers questioned, 60 per cent admitted to using the internet while on vacation. A similar, more recent study by Mediapost produced starker results, showing that 77 per cent took smartphones, 47 per cent took tablets and equally as many took laptops along on holidays. They used them
for anything from getting directions to planning their day. Whatever the reason, it seems we just can’t leave the tech behind. Luckily, many luxury hotspots have gone to great lengths to cater to today’s techno-centric society. The traditional check-in methods are a thing of the past at New York’s Andaz hotels on Wall Street and 5th Avenue, for instance, as guests utilise complimentary iPads to pay for rooms and procure a room key. While Abu Dhabi’s Helix Hotel is a high-tech eco-spiral of architectural beauty that uses state-of-theart natural element conservation methods to condition the entire building for the guests’ comfort.
Monte Carlo or Bust
One hundred years of solicitude
The Dorchester Collection’s celebrity haven, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée, celebrates its centenary this year. Having received a Palace distinction in 2011, it is renowned for its heritage, elegance and an unmatchable location which offers views overlooking Avenue Montaigne, the Cour Jardin and the rooftops of Montmartre. In commemoration of this momentous occasion, it has introduced a variety of celebratory offerings including dining surprises, speciality packages and a partnership with the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées; with three interpretations of Stravinsky’s ballet which will begin with the original version of The Rite of Spring which was first performed a hundred years ago. plaza-athenee-paris.com
Inspired by the journey of Odysseus around the Mediterranean Sea, Karl Lagerfeld has created a bespoke glass mural made up of 18 glass panels, which now sits alongside the brand new pool of the Hotel Metropole Monte Carlo. Chanel models adorned in Grecian togas are superimposed upon the coastline, with each panel illuminated by LED back-lighting that adjusts in accordance to the natural outdoor light. The hotel is launching its third Joel Robuchon restaurant, Odyssey, and is introducing several Greek Mythologyinspired spa treatments. metropole.com
ESCAPE
From long-haul retreats to weekend escapes, chic city stopovers to tropical hideaways, these are some of the world’s top haunts
Mississippi Churning
American Cruise Lines has added a themed cruise which captures the heart and soul of the classic American summer. The Old Fashioned Summertime cruise aboard the new Queen of the Mississippi is an eightday voyage from St. Paul through to St. Louis, showcasing the scenic upper portion of the Mississippi River. Agreeable summer weather, extensive nature preserves and a fascinating lock system make for a remarkable and revitalising passage through the American Heartland. americancruiselines.com
Siamese Catwalks In the heart of Bangkok’s Pratunam fashion and garment district is the brand new Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel. The snazzy hotel has been designed to host both business and leisure travellers, with everything from spa to conference facilities. The modern interiors of the hotel are bright and spacious, quelling the external bustle. The immediate access to designer shopping and close proximity to the train station alleviate the stresses of travelling. Chili Hip on the 20th floor is a dining venue with spectacular views, while on the rooftop the alfresco WALK is set to become a local hot spot. centarahotelsresorts.com
escape
Destination...
faro AIMEE LATIMER experiences the historic past Faro has to offer, alongside some very modern luxury accommodation Where to stay… The Residences at Victoria Clube de Golfe The Residences at Victoria Clube de Golfe is a five star hotel located only five minutes from the centre of Vilamoura. Ideal for the golf enthusiasts who frequent the region, the hotel is located near three courses: The Millennium, Laguna and The Victoria Golf Course, for which the hotel offers guests a direct entrance from an underground buggy park. Furthermore, the hotel offers guaranteed starting times at several Algarve courses. If you’re away golfing with the guys, the palatial Presidential Suite covering 250m2 offers the best rooms in the hotel and includes a secluded deck equipped with lounge beds, a Jacuzzi and a private butler service. residencesvictoria.com
Where to eat…. Restaurante Boia Bar Head here for a lunchtime bite to each, and relax on the restaurant’s beachside terrace, while enjoying delicous fresh fish bought locally from the market in nearby Sagres. Clean, simple interiors complement the oceanic surroundings and their welcoming staff are happy to advise you about the daily specials. boiabar.com
What to do… The Ruins Of Milreu Lazing an afternoon away on one of more than 100 beaches in the Algarve, world famous for their cool and clean waters, is almost a given. However, for a break to take in the region’s culture, visit the Ruins Of Milreu, only a 20 minute drive from Faro. Once a third century AD luxury Roman villa, the site has since been turned into a thriving farm. Take a slow walk round the crumbling baths, pagan temple and 22-column colonnade. Famous for the well-preserved mosaics, the site is of crucial historic importance to Portugal’s Roman past, and is surrounded by peaceful fields and beautiful landscapes, perfect for an afternoon away from the buzz of the seaside towns.
Don’t miss… Monchique Faro has its most dense tourist population during late July and August. Take a step away from the crowds and visit Monchique, a hillside town consisting of white-washed homes and blooming wild flowers staggered around a central church. Monchique has grown around handcrafts including pottery, tiles and sculptures, but it is now becoming increasingly popular with holiday home buyers. The hideaway provides easy walking and pictureseque alleyways, perfect for a relaxing stroll through old Portugal.
From top to bottom: The Residences at Victoria Clube de Golfe; swimming pool at The Residences at Victoria; City Hall, Faro; The Ruins of Milreu; Monchique.
British Airways flies daily to Faro from London City Airport and Gatwick. Customers flying from London City Airport benefit from a quick and easy service, with transfer from kerbside to airside just 15 minutes. Book with ba.com
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monchiqueuncovered.com
may 2013 THE CITY 103
A Second Bite of
THE BIG APPLE
Richard Brown revisits New York and unapologetically fails to explore the path less travelled
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have been to New York twice now. Both at times when temperatures have been subsiding from the lowtwenties to the late-teens and the colour of Central Park is shifting to signal late summer’s decline into fall. Bookended by the soaring heat of August and the biting cold of Christmas, it’s the ideal time of year for a longweekend Stateside – cool enough to wander the streets without breaking sweat, warm enough, in my case, to be the only short-sporting man in Manhattan. Well, you can take the man out of England… On both occasions, too, I’ve been gripped by a unique, pre-trip sense of excitement, a heady giddiness that, to me, seems quite distinct to New York jaunts; the adult equivalent of a child about to board a flight to Disneyland. It had been building in me for weeks and both times exploded into an infantile state of elation as I emerged from the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel toll road, which connects Brooklyn to Manhattan, to be met by that skyline. This time around, coincidentally, I had emerged from the toll tunnel to be met by a poster promoting British Airways, the company that had just gotten me here. ‘We fly to serve’, the poster proclaimed. They had certainly done that. After a 15-minute check-in-to-departure process, I had been aboard the ‘largest’ plane allowed to take off from London City Airport. Large by London City standards maybe, but comprising just 32 seats, which reclined fully to become flat beds, this bus of the sky was more private jet than commercial aeroplane – a feeling only extenuated by the fact that entertainment was provided for via personal iPads, that meals were ordered from a menu designed by Heston Blumenthal, and that we were each provided with fully-functioning phone and internet access while 30,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Flying via Shannon in Ireland so as to clear US customs there and arrive at JFK as a domestic passenger, we were collecting our bags moments from
landing and out of the airport in less than 20 minutes. BA, I salute you. The Ritz Carlton on Central Park would be my abode for the weekend. A home-from-home for anyone accustomed to the splendours of its London counterpart, the hotel was ranked by Travel & Leisure as the best place to stay in New York in both 2011 and 2012. Enter your room and it’s easy to see why: oversized marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs mean that bath time could easily last for hours, while feather duvets, feather beds and a choice of seven types of pillows (yes, seven!) cater for even the fussiest of sleepers. The provision of a telescope in the rooms that face the park will keep twitchers at their windows scanning the tree tops for birds, and everyone else (or maybe just me) spying on unsuspecting people down on the street. Stepping out to see the towering shapes that surround Central
From the Rockefeller to Freedom Tower, New York City is an ode to the high rise, a place where spires race to scrape the sky
littleny / Shutterstock.com
Adriano Castelli / Shutterstock.com
Park the next day, (having demolished a stomach-splitting breakfast at the hotel’s Auden Bistro & Bar – a combination of fried favourites and baked delicacies that you would usually be embarrassed to eat in a single sitting), university memories flooded back and I was reminded of seminars studying the sublime. Wordsworth had evoked it with a cliff, I could recall, Shelley with a waterfall. This morning, against a brilliant blue sky, New York was doing it with its buildings. From the Rockefeller Centre in Midtown to Freedom Tower in the Finance District, New York City is an ode to the high rise, a place where spires and turrets race to scrape the sky. Should our own 1 Canada Square be ranked against its New York counterparts, by way
gary yim / Shutterstock.com
may 2013 THE CITY 105
travel
New York City’s The Ritz-Carlton, Central Park
My first bite of the Big Apple had been a whirlwind of a romance with Manhattan’s most famous attractions of comparison, it would appear only after 19 taller buildings had gone before it. To comprehend the distances that dictate this city and the sheer number of skyscrapers that line its streets you either visit the Empire State, head to the Top of the Rock or take to the skies in a helicopter. Having chosen to explore the first option on my initial visit, and without the monetary means to afford the last, it was to the top of the Rockfeller Centre I went. Based some 16 streets uptown from the Empire State, and encircled by a greater number of buildings of similar height, views from the Rock are arguably better than those from the ESB; Central Park is closer and you get a better overall sense of the stretch of land that is Manhattan. For most visits, though, it’s one building or the other, and for the general experience it offers, and the more educational narrative it tells, I’d opt for the Empire State (unless you’re going at night, in which case the lights that surround the Rock are hard to match). As with any city, a visit to New York comes with a list of certain attractions that need to be seen and ticked from the list. Embarking on a whistle-stop tour of Time Square, Central Park, Madison Square, Macy’s and the Avenue of the Americas, I did just that. As evening approached, I also found time to visit the 9/11 Memorial Site. Sitting within the footprints of where the Twin Towers stood, the two twin reflecting pools that have replaced them are nearly an acre in size and feature the largest manmade waterfalls in the North America. Inscribed in bronze panels along the edge of the pools are the names of every person who died in the 2001 and 1993 attacks. It’s a place that’s both eerie and inspiring, allowing for moments of quiet reverence in a City that really does never sleep. My first bite of the Big Apple had been a whirlwind of a romance with Manhattan’s most famous attractions. So, the next day, with this trip running the risk of becoming the same, I decided to depart the island for one of NYC’s other five boroughs: the ultra-cool, hipster hangout that is Brooklyn. I’m glad I did. A mix of red-brick warehouses, art-adorned underpasses and cobblestone streets, the area known as DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is another New York entirely. An overflow of indie bars, vintage clothes shops, art galleries and antique dealers – think Shoreditch on steroids – a fascinating place to get lost for a few hours, albeit depressing when you realise you’ll never be as cool as the people that abide in Brooklyn.
106 THE CITY may 2013
Above any other metropolis on Earth, New York City is a place of gargantuan proportions, implausible spaces and movie-set magnitudes. Fitting, then, as we prepared to check-out on the evening we leave, that one of cinemas’ most celebrated moviestars should be sitting in the foyer of the hotel, surrounded by security, in deep discussion with a Scorsese-lookalike. In a city full of celebrity, it was a scene that excited few but a certain group of English journalists about to board a plane home. As part of that starstruck group, it provided me with a neat way of wrapping up this piece. And so, to borrow from one of the ex-Californian Governor’s most famous lines… New York, I’ll be back. British Airways’ exclusive all business Club World service flies from London City Airport to New York twice-daily. Lead in fares on the British Airways London City - New York flight start from £2530.31 return including tax. Tickets are available through ba.com and direct through BA reservations on 0844 493 0787.
www.themarmaracollection.com
Live
BODRUM through the view and luxury of
THE MARMARA BODRUM
This
Louise Rose gets lost in striking Rotterdam, soaking up the culture as well as some top-rate hummus
Could Be…
I
f you’re visualising Amsterdam’s picturesque cobbled streets and café-scattered canal banks, don’t. Because Rotterdam – despite being only about an hour’s drive south – couldn’t be any less akin to the ‘other’ Netherland’s capital if it tried. Holland’s second biggest city, it is one of the largest ports in the world, earning it the ‘Gateway to Europe’ nickname, due to its strategic location at the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt delta on the North Sea. An international commercial centre, its architectural skyline is equally impressive, while the remarkable maritime legacy provides the cultural and historical backdrop to the many museums and exhibitions to be explored. We visited in February when the winds were blustering and the rain was at full force, but between March and May, the famous bulb fields are in full bloom and the climate is far more pleasant. If you’re heading there this month, you’ll also be able to catch ‘The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk’ exhibition at the Kunsthal (kunsthal.nl) which is showing until 12 May. We were lucky enough to get there just in time: the first international exhibition of the celebrated French couturier gives a spectacular view of his far-reaching achievements. This fantastic exhibition celebrates the 35th anniversary of his fashion line and includes more than 140 original creations from the early 1970s to the present day, as well as pieces from his haute couture collections and ready-to-wear lines. Most of the garments are being exhibited for the first time
in the Netherlands. If you don’t make it for this particular showing, then the Kunstha is still worth a visit as around 25 exhibitions are held annually including classical and contemporary art, design and photography showings. Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, this striking building offers more than 3,300m2 of exhibition space and many will appreciate the building as a work of art in itself. The best way to explore the city is to get lost wandering around, dipping in and out of the museums and cafés, looking at the marvellous buildings. The Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is great for art buffs, carrying pieces from the early Middle Ages to the present day. From Bosch, Rembrandt and Van Gogh to Dalí and Dutch design, you can easily spend your whole day here enjoying the world-class works of art (boijmans.nl). The Netherlands Architecture Institute (NAI) holds important archives and collections of Dutch architects from after 1800, managing and providing access to cultural heritage, including the State Archive for Architecture (en.nai.nl). But if all the walking tires you out, the water taxis are a superb way to get around; wrapped up warm, we enjoyed the sites boat-side, ferrying between key areas in the city over the river Maas (watertaxirotterdam. nl). Spido also offers various sailing tours, allowing you to see Rotterdam in a totally different light. Sail under the Erasmus Bridge and past the world-famous Hotel New York; on one side you can enjoy the glorious views of Veerhaven, where stunning luxury yachts are moored, as well as the enormous ocean liners and riverboats that pass by.
jan kranendonk / Shutterstock.com
escape
The maritime district (Scheepvaartkwartier) is a designated and protected cityscape. Lined with trees and spacious quays, you’ll also find the World Museum. At the centre of the Scheepvaartkwartier lies Het Park, a green oasis where festivals are held all year round. Then head to the Nieuwe Markt for a spot of retail therapy: the village-like corner is home to some interesting boutiques as well international brands such as Scotch & Soda. Best for lunch is Bazar located on Witte de Wittstraat (hotelbazar.nl) along with most of the city’s other top eateries. Blazingly-painted furniture and a mass of hanging lamps give the place a busy bazaar-like atmosphere. The eclectic cuisine runs from India via Persia, from Turkey to Tunisia. We enjoyed some thick, tasty hummus, mixed meat grills and spicy chicken wings, ideal for sustaining us for some more walking. We regretted not making it to the Hotel New York. Apparently, it was the former headquarters of the Holland America Line, but nowadays serves as a meeting place, boasting a restaurant that seats 400 diners. Famous for its oyster bar, we were gutted to say the least (hotelnewyork.nl). Heading back to the Manhattan Hotel (manhattanhotelrotterdam.com) the leading five-star hotel in the city, we were thoroughly exhausted from our culturefilled weekend and we fell into a steady slumber as soon as our heads hit the super soft pillows. As a family-friendly city break (as well as for a business trip), it’s a terrific alternative to the well-trodden paths of Amsterdam. The next big destination for 2013? It could well be Rotterdam.
more information To book flights visit cityjet.com or call reservations on 0871 666 50 50. CityJet operates non-stop services from London City to 21 popular destinations in the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe including Amsterdam, Antwerp, Avignon, Brest, Brive, Deauville, Dresden, Dublin, Dundee, Edinburgh, Florence, Luxembourg, Milan, MünsterOsnabrück, Nantes, Nuremberg, Paderborn, Paris Orly, Pau, Rotterdam and Toulon.
may 2013 THE CITY 109
THE Directory Whether you want to dine or to drink, to purchase gorgeous gifts and stylish outfits, to keep fit or to be pampered, the City is home to a wealth of services and amenities
Collection
Health & Beauty
Bachet
Ajala Spa
12 The Courtyard
10 Godliman Street
020 3405 1437
020 7074 1010
bachet.fr
www.ajalaspa.com
Virgin Active 5 Old Broad Street, 0845 270 4080 virginactive.co.uk Barber Express Ltd
artisangalleries.com
14 Devonshire Row Chequers Beauty
2 & 3 The Courtyard
020 7377 5485
Salon
Royal Exchange
barberexpress.co.uk
53-54 Leadenhall Market
020 7283 7284
020 7283 3047
City Health & Fitness
boodles.com
chequersbeauty.co.uk
Club London
Bulgari Royal Exchange 020 7283 4580 bulgari.com Ernest Jones Unit 3, Plantation Place 020 7929 4491 ernestjones.co.uk Goldsmiths 186-190 Bishopsgate 020 7283 6622 goldsmiths.co.uk
Grange City Hotel, Elysium Spa
8-10 Cooper’s Row
21 Old Broad Street
cityhealthclub.co.uk
020 7256 8624 elysiumfortytwo.co.uk
Kiehls Unit 14/15, Royal Exchange 020 7283 6661 kiehls.co.uk Jo Malone 24 Royal Exchange 08701 925131 jomalone.co.uk L’Occitane
144 Fetter Lane Essential Therapy
29 Royal Exchange
020 7702 3553
39 Whitefriars Street
020 7929 7722
fetterbarbers.com
loccitane.co.uk
F Flit tner
Paul A Young Fine
020 7353 1895 essential-therapie.co.uk
86 Moorgate
Chocolates
Optix
020 7606 4750
20 Royal Exchange
175 Bishopsgate
fflittner.com
020 7929 7007
020 7628 0330 optixuk.com
paulayoung.co.uk London City Runner 10 Ludgate Broadway
Smilepod bank studio
9 Royal Exchange
Leadenhall Market
020 7623 3626
off Fenchurch Street
gucci.com
18-20 Cullum Street
Nicholson & Griffin
020 7836 6866
74 Cannon Street, EC4N 6AE
smilepod.co.uk
020 7489 8551
Hermes
020 7929 5656
Fet ter Barbers Ltd
Gucci
12-13 Royal Exchange
Artisan Fine Art 35 Royal Exchange
Boodles
15 The Courtyard
Retail
020 7329 1955 londoncityrunner.com
nicholsonandgriffin.com
Penhaligon’s 4 Royal Exchange 020 7623 3131 penhaligons.com Smoker’s Paradise 33 Royal Exchange 020 7626 6078 smokersparadise.8m.com
020 7626 7794
The Harley
hermes.com
Medical Group
Ted’s Grooming Room
Links of London
Marc House
120 Cheapside
27 Royal Exchange
Great Street
020 7367 9932
020 7621 0021
0800 022 3385
tedsgroomingroom.com
moltonbrown.com
27 Broadgate Circle 020 7628 9668
Molton Brown
linksoflondon.com
harleymedical.co.uk
Tower Bridge Health &
Paul Smith
Montblanc
The Private Clinic
Fitness Club
Unit 7, The Courtyard
10-11 Royal Exchange
107 Cheapside
47 Prescot Street
Royal Exchange
020 7929 4200
0800 599 9911
020 7959 5050
020 7626 4778
montblanc.com
theprivateclinic.co.uk
grangehealthclubs.com
paulsmith.co.uk
Boodles
SushiSamba
High Timber Restaurant
Madison Restaurant
Fashion
Bars and Pubs
Restaurants
Agent Provocateur
1 Lombard Street
1901 at andaz hotel
5 Royal Exchange
1 Lombard Street
40 Liverpool Street
020 7623 0229
020 7929 6611
020 7618 7000
agentprovocateur.com
1lombardstreet.com
andazdining.com
Grand Café
Grappolo 1 Plough Place 020 7842 0510 grappololondon.com
Bulgari
Anise Bar
Anohka Indian
The Courtyard, Royal Exchange
15 The Courtyard, Royal Exchange
9 Devonshire Square
Restaurant St. Pauls
020 7618 2480
020 7283 4580
020 3642 8679
4 Burgon Street
royalexchange-grandcafe.co.uk
bulgari.com
Anthologist
020 7236 3999 anokha-indian.com
Haz Restaurant Plantation Place
Church’s
58 Gresham Street
28 Royal Exchange
0845 468 0101
Brasserie Blanc
6 Mincing Lane
020 7929 7015
theanthologistbar.co.uk
60 Threadneedle Street
020 7929 3173
020 7710 9440
hazrestaurant.co.uk
church-footwear.com
Balls Brothers
Crockett & Jones
11 Blomfield Street
25 Royal Exchange
020 7588 4643
0207 929 2111 crockettandjones.com Harrys of London 18 Royal Exchange 020 7283 4643
brasserieblanc.com
High Timber Restaurant
Caffé Concerto
8 High Timber Street
One New Change
020 7248 1777
Bar Bat tu
020 7494 6857
hightimber.com
48 Gresham Street
caffeconcerto.co.uk
020 7036 6100 barbattu.com
Madison Restaurant
Chamberlain’s
2 New Change
Restaurants
020 8305 3088
Prism
23-25 Leadenhall Market
madisonlondon.net
147 Leadenhall Street
020 7648 8690
020 7256 3888
chamberlains.org
Vertigo 42
Chez Gerard
020 7600 0992
Tower 42, Old Broad Street
14 Trinity Square
mintleaflounge.com
Hugo Boss
020 7877 7842
020 7213 0540
One New Change
vertigo42.co.uk
chezgerard.co.uk
020 7332 0573
Hawksmoor Guildhall
Cinnamon Kitchen
020 7375 2568
10-12 Basinghall Street
9 Devonshire Square
individualrestaurantcompanyplc.co.uk
020 7397 8120
020 7626 5000
thehawksmoor.com
cinnamon-kitchen.com
020 7236 3635
Counting House
Fora Restaurant
Royal Exchange
1-2 Royal Exchange Buildings
50 Cornhill
34-36 Houndsditch
020 7618 2483
020 7626 2782
020 7283 7123
020 7626 2222
sauterelle-restaurant.co.uk
karenmillen.com
fullers.co.uk
forarestaurants.co.uk
harrysoflondon.com Loro Piana 2-3 Royal Exchange 020 7398 0000 loropiana.com
hugoboss.com Karen Millen One New Change
Mint Leaf Lounge 12 Angel Court
Piccolino Restaurant 11 Exchange Square
Restaurant Sauterelle The Courtyard
Sushisamba
L.K. Bennett
Searcys Champagne Bar
Gat tis Restaurant
Floors 38 and 39
One New Change
One New Change
1 Finsbury Avenue
Heron Tower
020 7236 4711
020 7871 1213
020 7247 1051
020 3640 7330
searcyschampagnebars.co.uk
gattisrestaurant.co.uk
sushisamba.com
lkbennett.com
MAY 2013 THE CITY 111
LONDON Homes&
PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area
C o v e r i n g Wa p p i n g , S h a d T h a m e s , S h o r e d i t c h , Is l i n g t o n & T h e C i t y
On the Map Interiors project by March & White www.marchandwhite.com © Kilian O’Sullivan
Luxury Homes in London’s Property Hotspots
KnightFrank.co.uk
Great Percy Street, Finsbury WC1X
An excellent three bedroom house in a fabulous location This house has spacious entertaining rooms over the raised ground and first floor with attractive aspects across the gardens to the rear. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, double reception room, kitchen, dining room, guest WC, study, garden. Awaiting EPC. Approximately 118 sq m (2,025 sq ft) Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ1,950,000 (ISL130142)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Islington islington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6138
KnightFrank.co.uk
Pyrland Road, Highbury N5
Extremely elegant family home with separate basement apartment
This very bright house offers substantial proportions over five floors, with remaining period features such as grand fireplaces and ceiling cornicing. Main house: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and an en suite, reception room, kitchen, dining room, utility room, study, garden. Basement apartment: Bedroom, bathroom, kitchen. Approximately 310.04 sq m (3,333 sq ft). EPC rating E Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ1,850,000 (ILS130138)
KnightFrank.co.uk/islington islington@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6138
KnightFrank.co.uk
Lith Hall, Victoria Park E9
A wonderfully refurbished former church Situated in a quiet residential road offering views across Victoria Park. 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, reception room, play room, cinema room, study, kitchen/dining room, utility room, terrace, patio, balcony. EPC rating C. Approximately 420 sq m ﴾4,521 sq ft﴿
KnightFrank.co.uk/Canary‐Wharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 7512 9955
Freehold Guide price: £4,000,000 ﴾CWQ130052﴿
CW & The City Lith Hall - 18 April 2013 - 35506
18/04/2013 17:43:48
KnightFrank.co.uk
Norfolk House, City EC4V Two bedroom flat in superb order
On the north bank of the Thames with fabulous views towards the southbank including the Tate Modern and Globe Theatre, a beautifully presented apartment. 2 en suite bedrooms with the master benefitting from a walk in wardrobe, reception room opening onto a private balcony, semi open plan kitchen, entrance hall, weekday porter, lift access and parking. EPC rating D. Approximately 149 sq m (1,604 sq ft) Leasehold Guide price: ÂŁ2,225,000 (WAP130064)
KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping wapping@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5372
KnightFrank.co.uk Towerside, Wapping E1W River views
A Lovely recently refurbished apartment to rent in this popular development close to Wapping Overground Station on Wapping High Street. 1 bedroom with good storage, 1 bathroom, reception room opening onto a private riverside balcony, open plan kitchen, lift, porterage and an underground car parking space. EPC rating C. Approximately 45 sq m (493 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: ÂŁ395 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 (ASP170412)
Jacana Court, St Katharine Docks E1W Dockside apartment
A beautifully presented apartment in the City Quay development over looking St Katharine Docks. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom and private balcony, second bedroom, shower room, reception room opening onto a second private balcony, kitchen, lift, porterage and parking. EPC rating B. Approximately 108sq m (1,155 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: ÂŁ795 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 (ASP175329)
All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, administration fees will apply when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.
KnightFrank.co.uk Capital Wharf, Wapping E1W Beautifully presented
An immaculate riverside apartment in this portered block on Wapping High Street. Master bedroom with en suite bathroom with a shower, second bedroom, shower room, reception room leading onto a private balcony, kitchen, stone floors, parking and direct river views from all the principal rooms. EPC rating C. Approximately 90 sq m (971 sq ft) Available furnished
Guide price: ÂŁ700 per week KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 (ASP175191)
New Crane Wharf, Wapping E1W Warehouse conversion
A charming apartment in this lovely warehouse conversion in Wapping. Master bedroom with en suite shower room, second bedroom with en suite bathroom, reception room, kitchen, excellent storage, exposed brock work, lift, porterage and an underground car parking space. EPC rating C. Approximately 111 sq m (1189 sq ft) Available furnished Guide price: ÂŁ600 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 (ASP176609)
All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, administration fees will apply when renting a property. Please ask for details of our charges.
homes & property
expert comment LETTINGS:
SALES:
The rental market evolves
The first time buyer boom
Gary Hall, partner and head of lettings at
Joanna Beale, Associate at Knight Frank
Knight Frank in Wapping, comments on trends
Wapping, comments on the trends in the
in the residential rental market
residential sales market
The rental market in east London is changing. I joined the Wapping office of Knight Frank ten years ago as a keen negotiator and we rarely let apartments above £1,000 per week; it was mostly one and two bedroom flats sub £750 per week. However, over the past few years we have started to see the larger apartments and penthouses that were previously kept for the sales market drifting to the lettings side of the office. Additionally, as developments like NEO Bankside and One Tower Bridge raise the bar in terms of on-site services (concierge, spa, business centres) and include superior interior specifications and high-tech gadgets, the quality of properties available is becoming much higher. The investment market in Asia continues to remain strong and the appetite of overseas clients for this type of high-end, new build rental stock hasn’t changed. Off the back of this, institutional landlords have moved in to the rental market and are holding large chunks, or whole developments, for long periods of time before selling. The positive news for these great flats is that there is a reasonably healthy tenant base for them. Previously, the only direction the senior corporate tenants headed when they stepped off the plane was west, but due to the quality of property now available on the rental market, the City fringe has become an attractive option. Spending half the morning getting to the office from Kensington or Mayfair isn’t nearly as appealing when your colleague is able to walk to work from a top-quality flat in a great location such as Wapping. This still remains a much smaller part of the rental market and flats from £300 per week continue to keep us very busy on a daily basis, but if this growing trend towards high-end quality rental properties carries on, this market will continue to develop. East could be the new west in the next few years. n
It comes as no surprise that Wapping, The City and Limehouse are hugely popular locations with first time buyers working in the City and Canary Wharf. This benefits all concerned; it puts our clients who are moving out of the area to larger homes in the country in a favourable position as there is no chain. The reassurance that the Bank of England base rate is set to stay at 0.5 per cent for some time yet, along with the availability of cheap rates on mortgages, even with higher loan to values, has certainly impacted our core market. Demand is up year-on-year for one to two bedroom flats priced up to about £800,000. These are ideal for young city professionals looking for a short commute to a quiet area, and viewing numbers are strong. The only frustration is that the supply of property is still relatively low on the ground making it difficult for prospective buyers to clearly gauge the market, they’re keen not to miss an opportunity but aren’t able to conduct the research they feel they ought to do. The upper end of the market is also busy as many buyers, who in the past might not have considered east London, are at last realising that this area has a lot to offer. Properties that have been refurbished tastefully and to the highest standards are stealing the show and attracting multiple buyers. We are regularly asked whether it is worth refurbishing a property. The answer is “do it for yourselves, do it well and enjoy it, but don’t spend the money to immediately gamble on guessing someone else’s taste”. n
Knight Frank Wapping 020 7480 6848 www.knightfrank.co.uk/wapping
Knight Frank Wapping 020 7480 6848 www.knightfrank.co.uk/wapping
120
1 2
savills.co.uk
SHEARWATER COURT, e1w
OSPREY COURT, e1w
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 2 balconies ø secure parking ø 93 sq m (1,005 sq ft) ø EPC = C
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø terrace ø off-street parking ø concierge ø 101 sq m (1,806 sq ft) ø EPC = D
Guide £1.499 million Leasehold
Guide £1.25 million Share of Freehold
3 4
Savills Docklands nefthymiou@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800
SPITAL SQUARE, e1
OLIVERS WHARF, e1w
Reception room ø kitchen ø 3 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø private development ø 106 sq m (1,141 sq ft) ø EPC = C
Reception room ø kitchen ø bedroom ø bathroom ø shower room ø private balcony ø underground parking ø 107 sq m (1,147 sq ft) ø EPC = D
Guide £999,000 Leasehold
Guide £999,000 Share of Freehold
Savills Docklands nefthymiou@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Docklands zjames@savills.com 020 7456 6800
1 2
savills.co.uk
TOWER WALK, e1w
ALBERT BRIDGE RD, sw11
3 reception rooms ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 5 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø balcony ø patio ø 359 sq m (3,874 sq ft) ø EPC = C
Open plan reception/dining room ø kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony ø secure parking space ø 152 sq m (1,642 sq ft) ø EPC = C
Guide £3.5 million Leasehold
Guide £2.25 million Share of Freehold
3 4
Savills Docklands nefthymiou@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Battersea mshort@savills.com 020 3402 1900
IMPERIAL WHARF, sw6
HARRODS VILLAGE, sw13
Open-plan kitchen/reception room ø 3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø balcony ø 2 secure parking spaces ø residents' gym ø 112 sq m (1,206 sq ft) ø EPC = C
Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø 2 secure parking spaces ø leisure complex with pool ø 109 sq m (1,172 sq ft) ø EPC = D
Guide £1.45 million Leasehold
Guide £1.1 million Leasehold
Savills Fulham tbradley@savills.com 020 7731 9420
Savills Barnes srichardson@savills.com 020 8939 6913
savills.co.uk
1 AMAZING SECOND FLOOR LOFT APARTMENT shepherdess walk, n1 Living room/dining/kitchen room ø 3 bedrooms ø dressing room ø master bathroom ø 2 en suite shower rooms ø utility room ø store room ø 239 sq m (2,573 sq ft) ø EPC = C
Guide £1.995 million Leasehold, approximately 107 years remaining
Savills Islington Paul Williams pwilliams@savills.com
020 7226 1313
savills.co.uk
1 STUNNING APARTMENT WHICH HAS BEEN ARCHITECTURALLY REFURBISHED northampton park, n1 3 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms, ø 1 en suite ø private landscaped garden ø garage ø close to Canonbury station ø administration charges apply ø EPC = E
Savills Islington Fitore Vula fvula@savills.com
020 7226 1313 £1,100 per week Flexible furnishings
1 2
savills.co.uk
PAN PENINSULA, e14
NEO BANKSIDE, se1
3 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø river views ø 24hr porterage ø communal leisure facilities ø administration charges apply ø EPC = C
2 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø further bathroom ø reception room ø winter garden ø 24hr porterage ø administration charges apply ø EPC = B
£1,400 per week Furnished
£875 per week Furnished
3 4
Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800
TURNSTONE HOUSE, e1w
CANARY RIVERSIDE, e14
2 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø further bathroom ø juliette balcony ø allocated parking ø porterage ø administration charges apply ø EPC = C
2 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø further bathroom ø balcony with river views ø allocated parking ø 24hr porterage ø administration charges apply ø EPC = C
£775 per week Furnished
£765 per week Furnished
Savills Docklands brodgers@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Savills Canary Wharf ssaul@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Wilkes Street, E1 £2,600,000 Freehold This is an immaculately presented and wonderfully bright and airy four bedroom, three reception room Victorian house in Wilkes Street. EPC: D
The Broadway, EC2A £850,000 Leasehold Located in the heart of the Square Mile, this spacious 2 bedroom apartment is on the 3rd floor with lovely west-facing views. EPC: D
Mears Close, E1 £640,000 Freehold Set over three floors, this is a beautifully presented two bedroom house in a private gated development with a garden and roof terrace. EPC: D
Princelet Street, E1 £2,750,000 Freehold This stunning Georgian five bedroom house complete with a roof terrace, retains original period features dating back to the early 1700s. EPC: D
Huguenot Court, E1 £495,000 Share of Freehold This spacious two bedroom apartment has an eat-in kitchen with access onto the patio garden and comes with a secure parking space. EPC: C
The Heron, EC2Y £530,000 Leasehold Hamptons are delighted to offer a stunning 7th floor west-facing Gallery Suite apartment in The Heron EC2, completing this summer.
Hamptons City Office Sales. 020 7717 5435 | city@hamptons-int.com
La Gare Apartments, SE1 £750,000 Leasehold A two bedroom, 1475 sq ft, live/work loft apartment with parking and gym within 250m of Southwark underground station. EPC: D
Cinnamon Wharf, SE1 £799,950 Leasehold A two bedroom 1033 sq/ft apartment in this popular development benefitting from communal roof terrace and 24hr concierge. EPC: C
Tea Trade Wharf, SE1 £2,000,000 Leasehold A two bedroom river front apartment in excess of 1700 sq ft benefiting from views of the River Thames with parking and 24hr concierge. EPC: B
Butlers Wharf, SE1 £1,200,000 Share of Freehold A two bedroom, 1399 sq ft warehouse conversion in Butlers Wharf with a ‘half bridge’, a secure parking space and 24hr concierge. EPC: C
Dockhead Wharf, SE1 £750,000 Leasehold An extensively refurbished dock facing, 897 sq/ft one bedroom apartment which could be easily re-instated back to a two bed. EPC: D
Butlers Wharf Building, SE1 £635,000 Leasehold A superb one bedroom warehouse apartment overlooking the historic cobbled street of Shad Thames EPC: C
Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Sales. 020 7717 5489 | towerbridge@hamptons-int.com
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Giltspur Street EC1 £500 per week Modern two double bedroom apartment, superbly located close to St Pauls, Holborn, West Smithfield and Fleet Street. EPC: E
Holborn Viaduct EC1 £750 per week Spacious three bedroom apartment set over three floors uniquely located within St Sepulchres Church on Newgate in the heart of the City. EPC: E
Upper Thames Street EC4 £360 per week A fantastic one bedroom apartment in this popular riverside City development situated on the North bank. EPC: D
Portsoken Street E1 £525 per week A refurbished two double bedroom apartment benefitting from a bright aspect and private west facing balcony. EPC: B
Whites Row, E1 £375 per week A superb one bedroom apartment in this small development in the heart of vibrant Spitalfields and five minutes to Liverpool Street station. EPC: D
Leyden Street E1 £460 per week One bedroom apartment on the third floor of this popular Spitalfields development benefiting from daytime concierge. EPC: B
Hamptons City Office Lettings. 020 7717 5437 | citylettings@hamptons-int.com
Clink Wharf, SE1 £2,500 per week Bespoke custom designed 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom apartment featuring Danish wood flooring, handmade furniture and balcony. EPC: C
Butlers Wharf, SE1 £750 per week Fabulous one bedroom warehouse conversion with dressing room and wood flooring in the prestigious Butlers Wharf Building. EPC: C
Wheat Wharf Apartments, SE1 £750 per week Stunning two bedroom warehouse apartment with refurbished bathrooms and redesigned open plan kitchen with dual aspect windows. EPC: C
Southwark Bridge Road, SE1 £575 per week Superb dual aspect spacious corporate apartment with two double bedrooms, balcony and contemporary open plan kitchen. EPC: D
Providence Tower, SE16 £895 per week Stunning two bedroom apartment boasting panoramic views of Tower Bridge and the Thames situated in prestigious river development. EPC: C
The Jam Factory, SE1 £1,000 per week Stunning one bedroom penthouse apartment set within this prestigious development, which was formerly Hartley’s Jam Factory. EPC: C
Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Lettings. 020 7717 5491 | towerbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
Union Square, N1 A beautifully presented, mid-terrace period town house in the Arlington Conservation Area. There is a light and comfortable reception room on the raised ground floor and a contemporary kitchen, dining room and the fourth bedroom on the lower ground floor. On the first floor there are two double bedrooms, on the second floor is another double bedroom and a spacious family bathroom. This location is ideal for Islington and Upper Street with the numerous choices of shops, bars and restaurants. Grade II listed
Hamptons Islington Office Sales. 020 7717 5453 | Islington@hamptons-int.com
£1,495,000 • • • • • •
A beautiful mid-terrace townhouse 4 double bedrooms Double reception room Family bathroom Terrace and garden Excellent transport facilities at Angel (Northern Line)
Arlington Square, N1 A beautifully presented, mid-terrace period town house on this superb square in the Arlington Conservation Area. There is a double reception room on the raised ground floor and a contemporary open plan kitchen/ dining room on the lower ground floor. The secluded garden has a separate decked area surrounded by trees and borders. On the first floor are two double bedrooms and bathroom. The fabulous master bedroom and en suite bathroom is on the second floor. GRADE II LISTED
£1,400,000 • • • • • •
Beautifully presented period house Square location 3 bedrooms 2 reception rooms Open plan kitchen/dining room Secluded garden
Sales
The Heron, EC2Y - from ÂŁ575,000 Leasehold The Heron will provide a collection of sensational apartments in the City of London. The 36 storey tower boasts outstanding skyline views alongside an exceptional specification. This is a genuinely rare opportunity to own a living space in the Square Mile. Apartments are available throughout the building including the Panoramic Collection on the upper floors which were created with a singular intention; to be the finest residences in the City of London.
16-17 Royal Exchange, London, EC3V 3LL
royalsales@eu.jll.com
Lettings
020 7087 5412 joneslanglasalle.co.uk
Neo Bankside, SE1 - ÂŁ460 per week A stunning fully furnished 5th floor studio situated in the brand new, award winning Neo Bankside development. The accommodation comprises a good sized living/sleeping area, with comfort cooling & wood flooring throughout and featuring a luxury shower room & contemporary fitted kitchen. Other benefits include leisure facilities & 24 hour concierge.
The Tapestry Building, EC2 - ÂŁ1295 per week A unique warehouse conversion offering approximately 1400 sq ft of living space. The apartment boasts a spacious reception with contemporary open plan kitchen, two double bedrooms with large fitted wardrobes and views of the City skyline, stunning en-suite to master bedroom with large walk-in shower and separate free standing bath tub, additional guest shower room also with marble finish and solid wooden flooring.
royallettings@eu.jll.com
homes & property
AGENT SPEAK The Effects of Crossrail on the City of London and wider London residential markets Richard Pine-Coffin, director of residential at Jones Lang LaSalle, comments on the state of the residential property market
Graph of Crossrail impact Š Jones Lang LaSalle
Recent studies undertaken by the Jones Lang LaSalle residential research team have revealed some interesting findings in respect to the anticipated impact of the opening of the new Crossrail tube line on residential prices between now and the opening of the line in 2018. Whilst it is clear that the more isolated locations on the extremities of the line will benefit from improved communications, the real benefactors appear to be the more central locations. These include Canary Wharf with significantly reduced travel times to Heathrow, as well as Tottenham Court Road which is witnessing significant levels of public and private development both residentially and commercially. Jones Lang LaSalle 020 7087 5282 www.joneslanglasalle.co.uk
136
Farringdon is now set to become a major transport hub. At present, being one stop from Kings Cross/St.Pancras International, this relatively central location is to a degree restricted by a lack of direct links rail to the major employment/ entertainment hubs. Coupled with the major public and private investment targeted for Kings Cross, City Road and the Silicon Roundabout at Old Street, the inflationary effects on the prices of residential properties centred around this new transport hub are anticipated to be significant. The research undertaken by our team suggests that Crossrail will contribute to residential price increases of between six per cent and 19 per cent above already strong house price inflation for new build property along the route. Jones Lang LaSalle expects however that price growth within these more central City locations of Farringdon and Liverpool Street could be closer to in excess of 30 per cent by the time the route is open in 2018. n
We know why people love living in London’s villages Lively communities, pretty parks, good pubs and restaurants, characters all of their own. We love London’s villages and we know why tenants do too.
fjlord.co.uk
Design Works, EC1V
£720 PW
Citybridge House, EC1V
£550 PW
Very spacious two bedroom, two bathroom loft style apartment centrally located with easy access to all major transport facilities. The apartment comprises of two double bedrooms, one en-suite with a further guest shower room. Modern fitted kitchen which is semi-open plan with a good size reception area. The flooring is laid with solid wood throughout.
Stylish 1300sqft loft apartment centrally located with easy access to all major transport facilities. Master bedroom with en-suite. Guest bathroom. Large entrance hall leading to a bright open plan reception and kitchen diner. The flooring is laid with wood throughout while the furniture is modern and contemporary.
Clerkenwell 020 7553 6020
Clerkenwell 020 7553 6020
Mill Street, SE1
Ref: FJL00001
£550 pw
Ref: FJL00002 | EPC – D
Aberdeen Road, N5
£400 PW
You could choose a bouquet of fresh spring daffodils or tulips from local florists as you meander past the numerous Butlers Wharf restaurants to Mill Street, where Scott Sufferance Wharf is nestled in among the historic warehouses. This two bedroom apartment, boasts a spacious living area which leads to the private terrace.
Situated on a beautiful street lined with Victorian houses in Highbury, this one bedroom apartment is utterly desirable. The property consists of a large reception room with separate kitchen along with a brilliant private garden. Outside space is highly sought after in London making this apartment an absolute gem.
Shad Thames 020 7378 9607
Islington 020 7226 7319
Ref: FJL00003 | EPC – C
Ref: FJL00004 | EPC – D
clerkenwell.lettings@fjlord.co.uk | shad.thames.lettings@fjlord.co.uk | islington.lettings@fjlord.co.uk
Canary Wharf Mag:
Trim size 210 x 297mm SALES
We know why people love living in London’s villages Lively communities, pretty parks, good pubs and restaurants, characters all of their own. We love London’s villages and we know why buyers do too.
fjlord.co.uk
Herbal Hill Gardens, EC1R
£1,395,000
Empire Square, SE1
£1,250,000
A rarely available two bed penthouse apartment fully refurbished to exacting standards, situated in a prime location with easy walking distance to the City and West End, moments from Hatton Garden, with a large private terrace and secure parking.
A magnificent penthouse apartment within this desirable building close to Borough tube and the world famous market. Boasting a fabulous roof garden and 33’ x 26’ reception room with city views, this truly amazing property is one not to be missed.
Clerkenwell 0207 251 9449
Shad Thames 020 7089 6490
Eagle Wharf, SE1
Ref: FJL002304090 | EPC –
£925,000
Highbury, N5
Ref: FJL027604226 | EPC – D
£950,000 - £1,000,000
Situated on the fifth floor of this impressive Shad Thames warehouse conversion is this spacious, recently refurbished, two bedroom, two bathroom apartment. Featuring exposed brickwork and pillars, multipaned windows and private terrace, this beautiful property is a fine example of warehouse living.
Beresford Terrace is a charming row of Victorian homes running between Highbury New Park and Petherton Road in Highbury just north of Canonbury. This bright upper maisonette forms the top three floors of this terrace which is divided in to two.
Shad Thames 020 7089 6490
Islington 020 7288 1681
Ref: FJL027604337 | EPC – C
clerkenwell.@fjlord.co.uk | shad.thames.@fjlord.co.uk | islington.@fjlord.co.uk
Ref: FJL027400765 | EPC – E
We give the same energy and passion to selling or letting property regardless of value and never forget that houses and flats are homes first and foremost. WE KNOW WHO’S BUYING, WHO’S SELLING AND WHO’S MOVING IN YOUR AREA. It is this intimate market knowledge and knowing how to use it that gives our clients the advantage.
99% OF OUR LANDLORDS WOULD USE US AGAIN TO RE-LET THEIR PROPERTY
99
%
We believe people will forget what you say, they may forget what you do, but they will never forget
how you make them feel
of our clients would recommend us... ...28% ALREADY HAD
We asked our clients to rate our levels of communication:
98% SAID WE WERE GOOD, VERY GOOD OR EXCELLENT
CurrellResidential
£795,000 Leasehold Cross Street, N1 • Two bedroom upper maisonette • Fabulous private roof terrace • Charming reception room • Eat in kitchen with further balcony
www.currell.com
£1,200,000 Freehold Colebrooke Row, N1 • Modern private gated mews house • Central Islington position • Three bedroom, three bathrooms • Private roof terrace and secure parking
020 7226 4200
islington@currell.com
Vanilla & Sesame Court, SE1 £385 pw Furnished to a high standard, a large one bedroom apartment measuring approximately 620 sq ft. EPC – B.
Cold Luna Harbour, House, E14 SE16£350 £425,000 per weekleasehold
Butlers Wharf, SE1 £550 pw
lovely modern apartment located a strollapartment One bedroom apartment in one ofliving the most prestigious A contemporary, high standard one just bedroom boasting generously proportioned space. from Canary blocks in to Shad offering Located to theWharf. fringe of Shad Thames and within close proximity theThames City. EPC – C. a great view of Tower Bridge.
In the 21st century customers should no longer have to choose between good service or a good result, they deserve both. We passionately believe in this philosophy and have made a short video with the help of some of our many happy customers to prove that Anderson Rose does deliver both. If you are considering selling or renting your home why not try the award winning Anderson Rose experience and become one of our next happy customers.
They make you feel as if you’re the only customer… You can see our video by searching ‘Anderson Rose Estate Agents’ on YouTube or by scanning the QR code
Cinnabar Wharf Central, Wapping E1W 1NQ
Cinnamon Street, Wapping, E1W 3NJ
£1,285,000 Leasehold
£680,000
Hermitage Court ,Wapping E1W 1PW
Capital Wharf , LONDON E1W 1LY
£1,300,000 Share of freehold
£799,995 Leasehold
Close to the historic St Katharine’s Docks is this fabulous riverside 3 double bedroom apartment, situated within one of Wapping’s most prestigious and sought after luxury developments. Offering an open plan kitchen, reception, 2 bathrooms, secure underground parking and a terrace overlooking the River Thames. 24 hour concierge.
This modern built top floor apartment comprises of 4 bedrooms, 2 with en suite shower rooms. There is an additional family bathroom. Reception room with a terrace and views across London. Separate kitchen diner. Additional balcony with views over the residents internal courtyard. Also secure underground parking space and benefits from porterage.
ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this modern built 3 storey townhouse. The property comprsises of 3 bedrooms, 2 with ensuite shower rooms, L-shaped lounge with balcony, Kitchen diner, utility room, ground floor cloakroom, garage with parking space to front and garden.
This top floor 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment benefits from having a Juliet style balcony. The master bedroom incorporates a balcony and an en-suite bathroom and guest shower. Separate integrated kitchen with granite work surfaces. There is also a residents gymnasium, 24 hour porterage/security and a secure underground parking.
ea2 Estate Agency Heritage Court | 8-10 Sampson Street | Wapping | London E1W 1NA t: 020 7702 3456 | f: 020 7702 9168 www.ea2.co.uk | property@ea2group.com
Spirit Quay , LONDON E1W 2UT
This 2 bedroom modern duplex apartment is situated within the sought after canal side development of West Wapping. Reception, fitted kitchen & Bathroom, allocated parking. The historic ‘St Katharine’s’ docks is nearby. Within easy access to the City & Canary Wharf. These properties are in demand and a prompt viewing is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
£424,995
Waterman Way, LONDON E1W 2QW
2 Double bedroom modern house. Fitted kitchen. Breakfast area. Reception. First floor bathroom. Own garden. Oak wood flooring. Situated close to the City and within easy access to Canary Wharf. Wapping station is nearby. ‘Waitrose’ supermarket is close.
£450 PW
ea2 Estate Agency Heritage Court | 8-10 Sampson Street | Wapping | London E1W 1NA t: 020 7702 3456 | f: 020 7702 9168 www.ea2.co.uk | property@ea2group.com
www.robertholmes.co.uk
Wimbledon Village
£6,850,000
A beautifully presented Edwardian residence prestigiously located in one of Wimbledon Village’s most highly regarded roads within easy reach of train services to Central London and the City 5/6 bedrooms • 4 bath/shower rooms • super kitchen • lovely reception rooms • galleried office • large garage • gated carriage drive with parking for several cars • ER/E
£4,500,000
Wimbledon
A superbly appointed contemporary residence with almost 6,000 ft² (557 m²) of living space, creatively constructed giving a feeling of light and space within easy reach of train services to Central London and the City Reception hall • 3 reception rooms • super kitchen/dining/family room • 6 bedrooms • 5 bath/shower rooms • fabulous 233’ garden • gated drive • ER/C
Wimbledon Village’s Premier Estate Agent - +44 (020) 8947 9833
CLD27343 Breakspear House 210x297 AD 12/03/2013 16:19 Page 1
Breakspear housE
www.breakspearhouse.com
HAREFIELD • MIDDLESEX
BEAUTIFULLY UNIQUE Breakspear House, a dramatic fusion of historic elegance and contemporary specification, culminating in a unique collection of apartments set within nine acres of private, landscaped grounds with excellent transport links to central London. A conversion of a Grade I listed 17th century manor house into nine superb 2 & 3 bedroom apartments Set in more than 9 acres of ancient woodland and private parkland Only 15 miles from central London* Just 8 miles from Heathrow* and with good access to the A40, M25 and M40 motorways Underground access at West Ruislip (Central Line), Hillingdon (Metropolitan / Piccadilly Lines) and Rickmansworth (Metropolitan Line)
V I E W I N G H I G H LY R E C O M M E N D E D
Well proportioned rooms, many with original features
SHOW APARTMENT OPEN
Stunning and far reaching views
Thursday / Friday 2pm - 7pm and Saturday / Sunday 11am - 4pm, or by private appointment
Flexible viewing times available with local station pick up/drop off service if required Prices from ÂŁ1.1 million A development by HERITAGE BREAKSPEAR LTD *Straight line distances
Call 01895 824471 or email sales@breakspear-heritage.com
Your reward for all the lonely dinners at your desk.
For more space, more time and more leisure
Look no further than Kidbrooke Village New phases, Blackheath Quarter and Meridian Gate - now launched For an outstanding choice of quality homes that includes smart contemporary apartments and innovatively planned townhouses, surrounded by parkland and amenities, it has to be Kidbrooke Village.
All this, only 15 minutes from London Bridge* Contact us to book your appointment to view - call 020 8150 5151
www.kidbrookevillage.co.uk In the last ten years, The Berkeley Group has created 436 acres of public open space
Sales & Marketing Suite and Show Apartments now open daily 10am to 6pm (Thursdays until 8pm) Weigall Road (off Kidbrooke Park Road) London SE3 9YY
Appointed agent:
50 acres of it is part of Kidbrooke Village. Our Vision. Your Future.
Delivered in proud partnership with:
Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies
Details correct at time of going to press. Computer Generated Image depicts parkland at Kidbrooke Village. Photography depicts streetscene, interior and typical lifestyle at Kidbrooke Village. * Source: www.tfl.gov.uk
Manhattan Suites, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom townhouses
Galliard_NCQ_CanWharf_FPC_26.4.13 23/04/2013 12:22 Page 1
Raising the bar FOR GREENWICH
The Royal Borough’s grandest scheme to date. A brand new cosmopolitan waterside village for Greenwich complete with a new Waitrose, restaurants & bars. Concierge service and secure underground parking available.
NEW CAPITAL QUAY NOW RELEASED SHOW APARTMENTS OPEN 7 DAYS
LONDON CENTRAL SALES & ON-SITE MARKETING SUITE
020 7620 1500 sales@galliardhomes.com
D!
N E K E E W E S A E L E R L A OWING PHENOMEN
RECORD SALES FOLL
newcapitalquay.com
Apartments from £325,000 - £1.5 million
The Paragon, Blackheath, SE3 Guide Price ÂŁ1,850,000 Freehold
Bedrooms: 5 Receptions: 3 Bathrooms: 4 Type: Georgian Apartment EPC: F More info at: johnpayne.com or call 020 8318 1311 to arrange to view
Occupying a heathside position and forming part of this Grade I star listed Georgian crescent, this is a unique opportunity to purchase the largest single property available within the Paragon, providing in excess of 3,000 square feet of beautifully presented space arranged over three levels. Internally the property has been the subject of a thorough, tasteful and sympathetic refurbishment programme.
Hawks Mews, West Greenwich, SE10 Guide Price ÂŁ1,350,000 Freehold
Bedrooms: 3 Receptions: 1 Bathrooms: 2 Type: Coach House EPC: E More info at: johnpayne.com/5073 or call 020 8858 9911 to arrange to view
Unique opportunity to purchase this three bedroom detached coach house which was restored some 40 years ago and has never been brought to market before. Offers a wealth of character features, a stunning upstairs drawing room and kitchen/dining room, and a tranquil garden.
johnpayne.com Our website is mobile friendly
We advertise online at
UnIQUe HoMes, UnIQUe seRvICe, UnIQUe PeoPle A tailored service from Langford Russell & John Payne for distinctive and exclusive homes
Mavelstone Close, BICKleY BR1 new 5000 sq ft 5 bedroom, 4 reception room home arranged on three levels with masses of space for families and entertaining. Fitted with a luxury specification including an integrated sound system, home cinema, gym, underfloor heating, scantromic alarm, laundry shoot and remote operated gates. 1 mile from elmstead Woods station. energy efficiency Rating B.
offers in excess of £1,500,000 F/H Please contact our Chislehurst office for more information: tel: 020 8295 4900 email: chislehurst@langfordrussell.co.uk
WateRsIde, asHFIeld lane, CHIsleHURst BR7 ‘Waterside’ is a beautifully presented detached home located in an enviable location overlooking Chislehurst Common and ponds. Comprising six bedrooms, five of which are en-suite, family bathroom, kitchen/breakfast room, three reception rooms, utility room and integral garage behind gates. lovely secluded gardens and just 300 yards from Chislehurst village. Chislehurst station is 1 mile away. energy efficiency Rating C.
£1,800,000 F/H Please contact our Chislehurst office for more information: tel: 020 8295 4900 email: chislehurst@langfordrussell.co.uk
Offices Across South East London & Kent www.uniquepropertiesuk.com www.langfordrussell.co.uk www.johnpayne.com
UNIQUE is a Specialist Division of Langford Russell & John Payne
t c e f r e P r u o Y
S R O L E H C BA Y N O BALC GREE
NWIC
11 mins **
ts h g i e H e e l i Jub Release Final
H
S lleek & S ty li sh
1 & 2 bed apartments overlooking the city Prices from
For further information
ÂŁ225,000*
020 7089 3917 CENTRALPARKLIVING.CO.UK *Based on 1 bed apartment. Prices correct at April 2013. **Approximate walking time. Source:Google maps. All Jubilee Heights apartments have a predicted Energy Efficiency Rating ranging between 69-80 (C) on the Predicted Energy Assessments (PEAs).
homes & property
Property Showcase Recreation on the River
S
ituated within the only residential development on the private Canary Wharf Estate, this is an outstanding example of value for a west-facing, high-rise, riverside property with superb and far-reaching views from the 14th floor. There are three large bedrooms with three en suites as well as a modern kitchen, a large reception room, excellent storage throughout, two parking spaces and a balcony. The building benefits from a concierge service and its own 24 hour security. On site is a classic Virgin Active gymnasium as well as the Four Seasons Hotel and residents can also make the most of attractive private gardens. Local transport links are excellent with a ferry stop situated a stone’s throw away. The development is also close to Canary Wharf underground station providing access to the Jubilee Line and DLR. n
Westferry Circus, E14 ÂŁ1,299,950 LEASEHOLD Savills Canary Wharf www.savills.co.uk
020 7531 2500 162
the lifestyle quarter
Firsta2ti0ons reserv uty &
d Stamp s paid* e e legal f
Marketing suite now open Greenwich Square is an exciting new residential address created around a vibrant public square, including leisure facilities and a range of retail amenities. • High specification one, two and three bedroom apartments available. • Balconies with views towards Canary Wharf and the O2 or across the new public square. • On-site cafés, restaurants, retail and a new leisure centre. • Short walk to Maze Hill station with direct trains to London Bridge in 11 minutes.
Prices from £249,950
Register your interest now Greenwich Square Marketing Suite 100 Vanbrugh Hill, London SE10 9FT
Call 0800 077 8177 greenwichsquare-london.com *Terms and Conditions apply. Prices are correct at the time of going to press. Computer generated images/photography is for illustrative purposes only. Travel time source: www.tfl.gov.uk All apartments within the first release have a predicted Energy Efficiency Rating ranging between 83-88 (B) on the Predicted Energy Assessments (PEAs).