Urban Life Magazine

April 2010

www.urbanlife-magazine.com

EXCLUSIVE:

THE TAMSIN EGERTON INTERVIEW AND PHOTOSHOOT

Best of British: Bentley History – Pedigree - Luxury

Fashion Week Post-show reports

Motoring Highlights from the Geneva Motor Show

Competition Win a luxury weekend break for two at the K Club

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JEWELLERY

HOROLOGY

TRAVEL

PROPERTY

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EDITOR’S LETTER

GREETINGS!

IT GIVES ME GREAT PLEASURE TO WELCOME YOU TO THE APRIL EDITION OF URBAN LIFE I am extremely pleased with this edition of the magazine, which I think you will agree; is probably our best edition to date. From cover to cover we have a great number of features, which I am certain you will find both interesting and stimulating in terms of editorial content and visual aesthetic.

We have an exclusive interview and photoshoot with the delectable Tamsin Egerton, a look back at some of the key shows during fashion week, a vibrant and colourful jewellery section, The Geneva Motor Show and not to mention that longawaited property feature I’ve been talking about for ages!

Our next edition will continue to grow in a similar fashion, with more of an emphasis on fashion, health and beauty, more travel related features and even more on high-end property. Of course our focus will remain the same; to give you original and vibrant content that not only matches your lifestyle, but your aspirations too.

In the meantime, do feel free to write in with any comments or suggestions.

Until the next edition…

YOURS

Ataur Rahman Editor-in-Chief editor@urbanlife-magazine.com

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PA I N T I N G S A N D S C U L P T U R E S

PA I N T I N G S A N D S C U L P T U R E S

The Dance, 2008, Limited Edition of 5, 4.03 x 3.4 x 2.2 m, South Bank, London

CO U N T Y H A L L G A L L ERY R I V ER SI D E B U I L D I N G , LO N D O N SE1 7PB Tel +44 (0) 207 633 9360 info@azam.com www.azam.com

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The Dance, 2008, Limited Edition of 5, 4.03 x 3.4 x 2.2 m, South Bank, London

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COCounty U N T Hall Y HGallery A L L G A L L ERY Riverside Building R I V ER SI D E B U I L D I N G , LO N D O N SE1 7PB South Bank Tel +44 (0) 207 9360 info@azam.com London633 SE1 7PB www.azam.com Galery : +44 (0) 207 633 9360 Mobile : +44 (0) 7912 071 350

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URBAN LIFE

CONTENTS 10 BEAUTY

We test out some of the newest beauty products to hit the shops. And there’s something for the boys too!

14 FASHION

A look back at the recent Autumn/Winter 2010. catwalk shows

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18 JEWELLERY

Spectacular jewellery to make your mouth water!

22 URBAN STAR

Tamsin Egerton - British cinema’s new rising star talks to Andre Gayle about the virtues of being a big fish in a small pond and where she plans to take her blossoming career in the future.

30 HOROLOGY

22

Breitling to Zenith - Luxury timepieces from the capital of the watch making world.

36 MOTORING

Highlights of the Geneva Motor Show and a Vauxhall Insignia test drive.

40 TRAVEL

A weekend of R&R at Chewton Glen.

43 COMPETITION

Win a weekend away for two at the five-star K Club golf and spa resort in Dublin.

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44 BEST OF BRITISH

We continue our quest to celebrate quintessential British brands with an in-depth look at the history of Bentley, one of the most luxurious motoring marques in the world.

48 PROPERTY & INTERIOR DESIGN Our new section on domestic and overseas investment opportunities and a look at one of the UK’s growing interior furnishings companies.

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54 TECHNOLOGY

A selection of gadgets and gizmos for personal use.

56 ART & CULTURE

Some of the key art exhibitions taking place in London.

60 RESTAURANT REVIEWS Off The Wall in The City and Vineria in North London.

62 URBAN LIFE

Coverage of some of the highest profile events from around the world.

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Cover Picture Tamsin wears - leather jacket (£680) and mini skirt (£280) by Dsquared2. Purple and beige wood bangles (£190) by Marni.

Ring by Leyla Abdollahi

uRbAN liFe Published by: Westside Communications Ltd. 10 Greycoat Place, London, SW1P 1SB Tel: +44 (0) 871 989 8206 Fax: +44 (0) 871 989 8207 email: info@urbanlife-magazine.com uRl: www.urbanlife-magazine.com Publisher And editor-in-Chief

Ataur Rahman

Creative director

Lee Thomas

deputy editor

Andre Gayle

sub editor

Will Dugdale

Motoring editor

Patrick Anderson

Jewellery editor

Leyla Abdollahi

head Of business development

James Tan

Features

Sarah Walsh

www.urbanlife-magazine.com

Jenn Bradley Ivan Petersen social Correspondent

Funky Nora

Cover & Fashion Photography

Dez Mighty

Cover & Fashion Photography Post-Production

Simon Blake

www.dezmighty.com www.sodesigns.co.uk editorial Assistants

Andy Simpson Clara Thomas

Advertising

Becky Chatsworth

subscriptions Manager

James Mason

All enquiries relating to features, advertising and sponsorship should be directed to the sales team in the first instance: sales@urbanlife-magazine.com To subscribe please fill out the subscriptions form available in this issue or contact the office on the number below or email for further information: subs@urbanlife-magazine.com © Westside Communications Ltd 2010. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part as well as storage of same in any retrieval system or transmission in any form including content and advertisement designs without the express prior written permission of the publisher will result in legal action.

The content and views contained within this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. All details correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. All errors and omissions excluded. All special offers and competitions are subject to terms and conditions (please see individual offers for details). Westside Comunications Ltd cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited material.

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SUBSCRPTION

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

BEAUTY A few things to help keep you looking beautiful, or handsome, this spring and summer.

Bare Minerals Eye-Lining Tutorial kit For those of us that need a little guidance on those all essential make-up tips from the pros, this is a good introduction to getting to grips with the basics of eye lining. £30.00 Big & Bright Eyeliner Pencils - £12 www.bareescentuals.co.uk

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NeoStrata Bioninc Eye Cream Use this antioxidant cream to reduce dark eye circles and puffiness around the eyes.

It contains green tea and cucumber extract and vitamins A and E. 15g £17.50 www.neostrata.com

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BeautyLab Micropolish Dermabrasion A gentle and effective formulation containing active ingredients of quartz and gold particles for a smoother finish to your cleansing routine. Gets rid of dead skin cells and stimulates circulation whilst the glycol-peel encourages cell renewal, leaving you feeling refreshed and radiant.

50 ml £35.00

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Then follow through with the moisturerich BeautyLab Re-energizing Peptide & Ceramide Mask to condition, smooth and repair dull and congested looking skin.

50ml £25.00 www.beautylab.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

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Biodraga Special Care Defence Maximiser A highly concentrated skin defence fluid to help fight the effects of wrinkles and fine lines with anti-ageing properties. Use it to firm up the skin and retain that youthful luster.

30ml £61.20 www.beautyconcepts.co.uk

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Biodraga Effective lift mask A firming mask containing wheat proteins and green algae extract. Ideal remedy for tired, stressed out London skin.

50ml £25.60 www.beautyconepts.co.uk

Xanthe Daily Quickfix Use this light firming serum after the scrub to benefit from its anti-ageing propeties. Contains tripeptide-1, hyaluronic acid, plant collagen and ginseng for a more youthful complexion.

30ml £30.00 www.xanthe.co.uk

Biodraga Special Care Line Minimiser Use this cream in conjunction with the Defence Maximiser to r educe and conceal fine lines.

10ml £39.90 www.beautyconcepts.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SPECIAL FEATURE

SHU UEMURA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; THE ART OF HAIR Shu Uemura, the eponymous cosmetics brand, has added its own line of hair care and styling products to its portfolio.

Using key natural ingredients such as camellia, primrose, jasmine and deep-sea water extracted from 200m below the surface of the ocean (mineral-rich, naturally purified water, free of contaminants) - the products look destined to become as much of a success as the make-up and beauty ranges. .

Fusing art with science and nature, Uemura has created a selection of shampoos and conditioners that will not only revitalise, but condition and rejuvenate hair to give it that healthy shine and glow.

The range includes the Moroto Volume shampoo and conditioner containing trace elements like magnesium, which purifies and tones fine hair to leave it feeling fuller with more volume and depth, whereas the Full Shimmer Shampoo and Conditioner contains Musk Rose Oil and is very rich in fatty acids and Vitamin A, which is ideal for colour-treated/damaged hair.

All products are available through online retailer and beauty site www.wantthelook.com

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Neville Hair and Beauty salon is set in the glitz and glamour of Knightsbridge, London. Run by husband and wife team Neville and Elena, Neville has a wealth of experience in the hairdressing world and is very conscious of the importance of nurturing new talents.

The Neville team pride themselves on their first-class service for everyone who walks through their doors, and their colour department is exceptional in achieving the perfect hue for each person.

At Neville people can have so much more than a haircut. Seen as a ‘lifestyle salon’ Neville houses experts in reflexology, facials, waxing, manicures and so much more, including an all-male grooming service! Whichever treatment you choose to have at Neville you can be sure you will get an individual tailored service customised to your needs, characteristics and wants! So if you’d like to be in the company of Yasmin Le Bon, Lisa Snowdon, George Michael and Naomi Harris, Neville promise to give you the ultimate salon experience to make you feel how everybody should – pampered!

5 Pont Street, Belgravia, London, SW1x 9EJ 0207 235 3654. www.nevillehairandbeauty.net

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FASHION - TRENDS

AUTUMN WINTER 2010 FASHION WEEK ROUND UP Feature by Sarah Walsh and Jenn Bradley Feminine, feral, futuristic, minimal with maximum effect. The outstanding effect that a month of fashion weeks have had on the world. Beginning with couture week in Paris which took romanticism to the 21st century with the use of delicate lace and silks to accompany modern metallic-treated cottons and printed mixed material. This season has seen something that is often alien to fashion – function; heals that do not require a crane and dresses that fit the female figure forgivingly. Frills and ruffles were manipulated around focused body contours which explores the female figure. I enjoyed Hilary Alexander’s idea that underwear was being worn as outerwear to cut back due the financial conflicts that continue within the retail and fashion industries. Whatever the reason may be for the use of these underwear garments as outwear, it looks fantastic and celebrates the intricate detailing of the design that compliment the contorts of the female body.

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Armani

Etro

Armani Privie experienced a lunar theme with structures ice coloured shimmering fabrics; the pod that covers the shift looks quite idyllic and relaxes the look with an original touch. Armani’s Giorgio collection incorporates bold but not brash; class not cluttered, a fantastic collection with the elements of the Armani brand that we come to expect.

Brilliant tailored suits with elements of 2010 trends with the special Giorgio inspired details.

Etro brought some much need expression through colour to the Milan shows. The purple hat featured below was a personal favourite in addition to the mixed weave wool used in the chunky knits that are elegant and powerful, all adding to a truly successful creation by Etro.

Moncler A traditional fashion show with great models that let the clothes take the attention, is an event that should be adored; model straight up and down the catwalk, a slight pause, strength, confidence and grace. Moncler surprised me by creating a different yet interesting catwalk show in which the models appeared on the runway laying on camping beds inside Moncler sleeping bags; one by one building a solid runway of each look.

This attempt to be different could have taken away from the collection, though the fantastic winter range shone through the different take on the runway, still keeping the traditional and important components of the catwalk in place. The signature over-sized puffers that we have all come to know and love from Monlcer stood strong alongside the great snow boots and thin knits.

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FASHION - TRENDS

Alexander Mcqueen In Milan the men stood strong with Alexander McQueen who incorporated his amazing menswear tailoring with complete balaclava style headpieces in the midst of excellent silhouettes and interesting structuring. An inspiring collection with wear-ability is something that is often lacking on the catwalk however McQueen has managed to keep true to his artistic talents and create a stimulating collection for AW10.

Chanel Would Coco Chanel have developed the Chanel brand in such a manner?

Possibly not, however Lagerfeldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chanel range defines the brand with original features as well as staying true to the Chanel name, developing the classic 2 piece into an array of ice cream and sorbet shades as well as structuring differently to the norm.

Christian Dior Galliano took the classic Dior couture dress and added an Elizabethan element and with the Dior suit, added romantic contours with a lace and equestrian theme throughout.

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FASHION

LONDON TOWN London led the way again with fashion trends for Autumn/Winter 2010, which intertwined new and upcoming designers with the heavyweights of the UK fashion industry. Yet again LFW cemented London’s reputation for it’s cutting edge fashion scene.

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Armani Burberry Utilitarian, military and equestrian were the key themes of Burberry’s Autumn Winter 2010 collection. The classic trench was developed with a powerful structure in navy, teamed with thigh-high boots that were in many of the key looks. Sumptuous caramel leather, left in natural state, was cut into a broad shouldered dress-coat and the classic Burberry tailoring makes an appearance with lace shirts and leather and sheepskin jackets. Yet again Chris Bailey successfully proves why he is the right man for the top job. We can’t wait to see what he has in store for September!

Matthew Williamson Often the winter collections lose the vibrant colours that we see in spring, however, as always Mathew Williamson has combined a vivacious palette with a dynamic wearable range. The oversize Persian pink cape coat is a striking essential that will no doubt be a key wardrobe piece come the autumn. Sugar almond, waterfall jackets and knits in federal blue are harmonised with the signature flowing silk gowns that we rely on Williamson to provide.

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FASHION

Phi

Mulberry Often the winter collections lose the vibrant colours that we see in spring, however, as always Mathew Williamson has combined a vivacious palette with a dynamic wearable range. The oversize Persian pink cape coat is a striking essential that will no doubt be a key wardrobe piece come the autumn. Sugar almond, waterfall jackets and knits in federal blue are harmonised with the signature flowing silk gowns that we rely on Williamson to provide.

Armani

Vivienne Westwood Red Label Classic Westwood with tartan prints, oversized everything that could be, draped skirts, dresses and trousers with period drama hairstyles and a 70s inspired theme. Shades of yellows, purples, maroons, pinks and blue, in vintage prints and panelled double denim teamed with top hats and hourglass structured coats.

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JEWELLERY

Carolina Bucci - Double Hoop Necklace 18ct rose gold pave pink sapphire double hoop chain necklace www.carolinabucci.com

Pomellato - Capri Ring In rose gold with rose quartz and chalcedony www.pomellato.it

De GRISOGONO “Gocce” earrings Satiny pink gold earrings set with orange sapphires and white diamonds www.degrisogono.com

Astley Clarke - Mistral ring Pave pink sapphire ring in rose gold. www.astleyclarke.com

Feature by Leyla Abdollahi

THE ART OF JEWELLERY Dressing up for a night out can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. Choosing the right attire to suit the occasion can be laced with pitfalls for the uninitiated. Then there’s the hair, make-up, shoes and handbags; all of which have to be co-ordinated with the flair and confidence of a seasoned stylist. In some cases it may even be a stylist that’s tasked to put together the ‘look’ for you. Whether it’s attending an awards ceromony, a social event or even a simple family gathering - they all require meticulous thought. But wearing

the right attire simply doesn’t cut it on its own. It will need to be accessorised with that same flair and confidence.

Most of all, it needs that certain je ne sais quoi that can only come from choosing the right jewellery.

Jewellery, along with fashion, is an expression of individuality and there are many ways it can be used to compliment a style when putting an outfit together - from formal and/or classic statement pieces to trendy, arty and funky choices, the list goes on. The pieces I’ve chosen

here stand out particularly for their use of bold colour, where the designers have shown their creative excellence by fearlessly combining this element with designs that use an array of gemstones like rubies, tsavorite garnet, pink and lavender sapphires, rose gold, amethyst and morganite.

Worn with an evening dress or a pair of denims you simply can’t go wrong with these cool and, depending on how you wear them, funky pieces. Oh, the temptation of it all...

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JEWELLERY De GRISOGONO “ Boule” NECKLACE In pink gold set with white diamonds and red sapphires www.degrisogono.com

Astley Clarke - Orevesi ring Rose gold with cabochon rose quartz and diamond accents www.astleyclarke.com

Le Vian Strawberry gold bangles with white, black and chocolate diamonds www.levian.com

De GRISOGONO “Tourbillon” ring White gold set with rubies and emeralds www.degrisogono.com

Autore – Venezia earrings Rose gold Tahitian pearl diamond and Tsavorite garnet earrings with brilliant cut diamonds www.pearlautore.com.au

De GRISOGONO “Chiocciola” ring Pink gold set with white diamonds, amethysts, blue and lavender sapphires www.degrisogono.com

De GRISOGONO Brooch in white gold, set with white icy diamonds and oval-shaped rubies www.degrisogono.com

Pomellato - Bahia earrings Rose gold, smoky quartz and rubies www.pomellato.it

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JEWELLERY

StrawberryWood â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Impassionata ring 40ct Morganite stone set in platinum and accented with diamonds www.Strawberrywood.co.uk

Astley Clarke - Edda necklace Black enamel moonstone peridot and amethyst necklace in yellow gold vermeil www.astleyclarke.com

Le Vian Strawberry gold earrings featuring pink amethysts surrounded by white and chocolate diamonds and pink sapphires www.levian.com

Pomellato - Funky Tabou collection.

(Product information not available at time of going to press.) www.pomellato.it

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JEWELLERY

Autore White gold keshi pearl diamond and aquamarine hoop earrings with brilliant cut diamonds and aquamarines www.pearlautore.com.au

Autore White gold and black rhodium ‘ice’ earrings with Autore Tahitian pearls, brilliant cut diamonds, tsavorite garnet, chrome diopside and peridot www.pearlautore.com.au

de GRISOGONO Ring in white gold, set with white diamonds, white Icy Diamonds and round and pear-shaped rubies www.degrisogono.com

Autore White and rose gold black rhodium fire volcano ring with round green black Tahitian pearl, black diamonds, rubies and orange sapphires www.pearlautore.com.au

de GRISOGONO Earrings in white gold, set with white diamond and ruby briolettes www.degrisogono.com

de GRISOGONO Ring in white gold set with a white pearl, amethysts, emeralds, light and dark blue, purple, yellow, orange, red and pink sapphires and white and brown diamonds www.pearlautore.com.au

de GRISOGONO “Starfish” bracelet in white gold set with blue sapphires and white diamonds www.degrisogono.com

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URBAN STAR

The Graduate

Destined to leave the young girl image behind her, Andre Gayle meets Tamsin Egerton, the talented, supermodel-like English actress who grew up on the silver screen and is now on the cusp of international stardom.

T

here was a time when it seemed everything you knew about Tamsin Egerton revolved around her being a schoolgirl. She was still at school when she first started acting and the jealousy it engendered from her fellow schoolmates filled out the padding for many a column inch in various newspapers and magazines in her later years. Then, of course, she was catapulted onto the national consciousness playing a vampish schoolgirl in two successful remakes of the classic St Trinian’s movies.

But that was then and this is now. Now there is a palpable sense within the movie industry that Egerton is moving into a new phase in her career. Whereas she may not necessarily have been previously

‘typecast,’ in the strictest sense of the word, the roles that we have come to know her by did not have too much in the way of gravity to them and they were almost always of the light-hearted variety. With the release of the first St Trinian’s movie in 2007 that image of her was reinforced in the minds of casting directors and producers. She played the insubstantial but good hearted sex kitten, Chelsea Parker, one of the many kooky residents of moviedom’s notorious English boarding school for girls, but there was a downside to the publicity it generated for her. “I turned down so many roles in the first six months after that movie was released”, she tells me.

“I didn’t like what I was being offered, it was all in the same vain as Chelsea. But, as a consequence, for the subsequent six months I didn’t work at all”.

At 17 it was a pretty bold move. A young working actress holds a ‘big break’ in one hand but swats away significant roles (and the rent money that comes with them) with the other? All in the name of long term career goals as opposed to short term success? Perhaps ‘bold’ doesn’t even sell it. It would actually be a very brave move for any self employed teenager, let alone one negotiating the cut-throat jungle of the movie industry but, as any poker champion will tell you, the more you bet on your own ability, the greater the eventual reward. Heading towards her 21st birthday Egerton is now starting to see the benefits of that early faith. The next year could turn out to be the defining period in her film career, the point at which, on screen, she turns from a girl into a woman – an actress into a potential leading lady. >

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URBAN STAR

Veil hat £49 by Bernstock Speirs Tweed jacket £1265 by Marc Jacobs and cocktail ring £265 by Roberto Cavalli, both available at Harvey Nichols Grey play suit £120 by Lounge Lover Studded shoes £640 by Brian Atwood

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Photoshoot: Photographer: Dez Mighty Stylist: Zed-Eye Make-Up: Jo Sugar using Dermalogica & MAC Hair: Zach Jardin @ Neville Assistants: Bumi Thomas & Laura Flock Location: Shoreditch Studios

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URBAN STAR

I meet with her for the first time on the morning of our photoshoot and it was immediately obvious we were going to have a good day. I was a little concerned when I had received no specific response to repeated enquiries to her agent about any dietary requirements Egerton may have, but when she arrived at the studio (on time, please note!) and was asked what she would like to eat she jumped at the chance to get a BLT from the local Deli. As tall and as slender as she is she eats real food - yes, including meat – with gusto and a smile. Any other concerns quickly faded.

Despite the buzz surrounding her she was a still just a ‘hang out kinda gal’, smiling and joking while bonding with the team.

It was the countenance of someone who felt confident and secure in the decisions that had brought her to this point in her career; of someone who has always had a very clear path in mind. “I would like to emulate someone like Anne Hathaway’s career, I think. Yes, she’s somebody who started out with the ‘teen movies’ and comedies, and then made Devil Wears Prada, but she’s also managed to steer herself into more serious projects as well, like Rachel Getting Married”. As if to punctuate her point, Hathaway is currently slated to play the iconic Judy Garland in an upcoming bio-pic about

the star’s tragic life, a real ‘once in a lifetime’ type role, while at the same time she’s starring as the White Queen in Tim Burton’s 3D fantasy blockbuster, Alice in Wonderland.

For Egerton it’s obvious the Hollywood blockbuster routes to movie careers are not necessarily for her. “The swashbuckling Hollywood movies are great but I’d prefer to do the slightly smaller projects as well and have it be more challenging to me on a personal level. I’d much rather cultivate a career and maybe not be hugely successful, but successful enough to keep working and be respected as an actress”.

It’s the kind of statement you think maybe she will look back on in a few years time and chuckle to herself thinking, ‘remember when I was just trying to keep working?’. To keep working, however, is the real goal for any actor, even the hugely successful ones - just ask debt ridden Wesley Snipes or Nicholas Cage. To that there’s an old UK movie industry maxim that says, if you want to work stay in London but if you want a career move to LA (or at least have a home there). While it would be slightly disheartening to list just how many UK natives have proved this maxim true, would we soon see Tamsin testing its validity as well? “I do believe it [the maxim], I really do. I already have an agent in LA and I was out there recently taking meetings. But there is also something to be said for establishing yourself as a big fish in a smaller pond.

If I get offered the roles sure I would have to spend time there but my family and my life are here. My career is part of my life, not the other way around. I wouldn’t just up sticks and leave”. For an English actress who might just be the

next big thing it’s a great sentiment to hear but it would be churlish to hold her to her words too strictly. A phone call from Coppola (either one), and maybe another from Woody Allen, and upping sticks and leaving would make very few people pause for reflection. Let’s face it, unless Bollywood is your thing, LA is the motherland for any screen actor.

ñI would prefer to be regarded as a chameleon rather than someone who could only play a certain type because of the way she lookedî While she is here though we are happy to have her and, for the moment, ‘big fish’ status is almost a reality. Whether it’s taking in the shows at London Fashion Week or on the red carpet at the Baftas, the Brit Awards or first night at the English National Ballet, she is well on the way to becoming one of the most photographed and talked about women in British entertainment. Standing 5’10” in her bare feet, legs of an almost supernatural length and unbelievably striking to look at, she’s already something of a fashion icon for the country’s entertainment pages and websites and she was recently voted into the top 10 of the 100 most beautiful women in the world by the Independent Critics Circle. For the major designers she would be as easy to dress and style as any supermodel and, as her star rises, it’s only a matter of time before she lands a major advertising campaign with one of the big boys.

Key to that star rising is the June release of the film 4.3.2.1. by English director/ actor Noel Clarke, who also gave us the cult hits Kidulthood and Adulthood. It’s a film that marks a definite departure from the tone of Tamsin’s previous roles. 4.3.2.1 is a gritty urban heist movie based in New York and London and told from four different perspectives, of which Egerton’s character is one. The preview clips will tell you that it’s just as uncompromising as Clarke’s previous offerings and, for Tamsin, it feels like this could be a real statement of future intent from her. Was it a conscious decision to make this kind of film at this point or was it coincidence?

“A bit of both really. A couple of years ago Noel had picked me as his ‘one to watch’ for Time Out magazine and when we met >

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THIS PAGE V-neck dress £995

by Amanda Wakeley.

Black flower bracelet £280 by Marni.

Leather sandals £218

by Diane Von Furstenberg OPPOSITE PAGE 18ct white gold/amber/ diamond earrings £9200, black pearl necklace £520, whitegold/diamond ring £1700 and white gold/black rhodium/ diamond ring £995 by Annoushka, available at Harrods.

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Tiger print dress £359, gold mesh cardigan (£321) and nude leather jacket £680

by Diana Von Furstenberg.

Crystal horn necklace £1650

by Roberto Cavalli, available at Harvey Nichols.

Leather bracelet £146

by Marni. Shoes £350 by Amanda Wakeley

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he told me he had a script and wanted to offer me a role. I read the script and it was so different to what I was being offered at the time I loved it”. 4.3.2.1 sees Tamsin’s character, Cassandra, travel to New York only to become involved in a story of transatlantic diamond theft with three other fiercely different women. It’s easy to see why the role appealed to her so much.

“There’s not very many strong female roles for the big screen, in the UK especially, so when he [Noel] offered it to me I bit his hand off and now he is a very, very good friend of mine whose advice I trust”.

4.3.2.1 will be another calculated risk for her. For those who are conditioned to seeing her in the lightweight blonde roles the change of gear may be a little too jarring. But that should be more than offset by the many more who, for the first time, will be sitting up and taking notice of her expanding range. As she puts it: “some people have to wait and see me do something serious before they start taking me seriously”. The obvious frustration clearly underwrites her words.

“I wish sometimes people would take that leap and give me the opportunities to show what I can do but until then I’ll just have to grab them myself”. She’s not about to play the ‘industry game’ either.

Being the ‘pretty tall blonde’ may not have been the blessing it might have seemed when it came to casting for a varied assortment of roles, but Egerton won’t be sucked into packaging herself according to the prevailing winds of the time just to turn heads. “I like the way I look and I’m quite happy with my blonde hair but if I was offered a great role that required me to chop it all off - like Natalie Portman did for V For Vendetta - I wouldn’t hesitate for a second. It would be for casting directors to tell me what they want from me. I would prefer to be regarded as a chameleon rather than someone who could only play a certain type because of the way she looked”. >

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A woman’s hair ranks second only to a woman’s weight on the list of things men should never discuss, only compliment, so it’s something of an indicator to hear her talk so easily about shaving it for a role she felt was right. “I would absolutely love to explore the darker side of my personality on screen”, she says with an evident longing in her voice. “I read a script to a psychological thriller the other day that had a strong female lead in it and it got really dark towards the end. I loved it! It would be great to do some more serious, strong, deeply emotional work like that”. There was no word on the status of the psychological thriller she was referring to but she did arrive at our shoot straight from an audition about which she was very excited yet declined to give me the scoop.

“If I tell you I’ll jinx it”.

ñI would love to explore the darker side of my personality on screenî What we don’t have to speculate on is what the near future holds for Tamsin Egerton on the big screen. When 4.3.2.1. is released she will already be deep into production on her next feature, Chalet Girl, a romantic comedy also starring Bill Nighy and fellow British rising star Ed Westwick, and then comedy drama Huge will hit our screens later in the year where Egerton will share the screen with Thandie Newton, Eddie Izzard and Noel Clarke (again, lucky him).

By then Egerton should be just about ready to take to the international stage following the trail set by other breakout UK actors like Gemma Arterton, Toby Kebbell, Nicholas Hoult and Carey Mulligan. Carey in particular is someone Tamsin has fond memories of. “She’s such a bloody good actress and I really appreciate the fact that her success is something she’s worked a really long time for, as I’m doing now. The body of work she has behind her is fantastic.

We always used to be up for auditions together in the early days so it’s great to see her doing so well and it would be nice to follow in her footsteps”.

It’s just a matter of time, Tamsin.

Just a matter of time.

4.3.2.1. starring Tamsin Egerton goes on national release on June 2nd.

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THIS PAGE Red dress £487 by Diane Von Furstenberg. Wood/ feather necklace £340 by Marni Beaded boots £895

by Trussardi 1911 Bangle by Leyla Abdollahi OPPOSITE PAGE Dress £7885 by Chanel.

Sanctuary Ring £6900 by Wendy Yue for Annoushka, available at Harrods Double strand pearl necklace £450 by Mawi, available at Harvey Nichols.

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HOROLOGY

THOROUGHLY MODERN SWISS A MODERN TAKE ON ONE OF THE WORLD’S OLDEST ARTS Feature by Andre Gayle

As we begin a new decade of the new millennium, it’s time for us to firmly consign the disastrous end to the last decade to the history books and look forward to the future.

With these luxury wristwatches the future is closer than you might think; no need for a time machine. Cutting edge design, innovative time displays and state of the art materials, combined with the expertise in watch making you can only get from the stamp that says ‘made in Switzerland’, make these watches - from some of the world’s biggest names in the market - must-have new twists on an old idea.

Hublot Gummy Bang Tourbillon – White: Limited Edition This fantastically titled piece from Hublot comes in black, chocolate brown and white (pictured). Each colour is made in a limited edition of just 28 pieces. Stark minimalist styling is the order of the day here. While rubber straps are nothing new to luxury watches this piece features a polished titanium case, dial and bezel that are also covered in the same ‘gridded’ rubber design. Even the titanium crown has a rubber insert.

<

The watch face itself is clean of numbers and/or numerals, with only the tourbillon mechanism shown at the six o’clock position. While it makes for an exceptionally pleasing design it does beg the question: how useful is such an exacting timing mechanism like the tourbillon when you are not able to see the exact time? It’s an idiosyncrasy we can easily overlook for such a beautiful watch.

RRP: ó 92,000. www.hublot.com

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Zenith Defy Xtreme Zero-G El Primero Tourbillon You would be doing well to find a timepiece that more embodies the term ‘man’ than this extraordinary example. This is a no-nonsense watch that is made to be worn. And while the title may sound very cool to the ear it actually does describe the function in this watch as well – it defies gravity! The Tourbillon is housed in a gyroscopic cage, shown at the five o’clock position, which comprises of an escapement mounted on cardan joints similar to marine chronometers. The instrument, which is sensitive to changes of position, is kept in a constant horizontal position, thereby ensuring optimal amplitude for the spiral balance-wheel. Such extreme precision allows you to measure time intervals down to one tenth of a second.

< Cartier Santos 100 Carbon Chronograph A sharp and modern offering from the famed luxury manufacturer more known for their fine jewels and precious metals. This watch comes with a ‘satined’ titanium case coated with ADLC (Amorphous Diamond Like Coating), the pinnacle in scratch and fingerprint resistance technology.

The ADLC coated steel screws that hold the surrounding bezel in place add to the ‘modern industrial’ look.

The bold square black face is adorned with grey post-modern Roman numerals that are punctuated by brushed steel chronograph dials. Cartier mechanical movement, titanium push buttons and the grey Toile de Voile strap complete the ultra modern feel of this watch RRP: £7450. Tel 0203 147 4850. www.cartier.com

The overlapping clock dial is positioned at eleven o’clock producing a distinctive ‘leaning 8’ effect on the watch face. The watch features a multi-layered dial of Hesalite glass, carbon fibre and aluminum beneath two sapphire glasses, a black titanium case that is waterproof to a phenomenal 1000 metres, a protected crown, a helium valve and a black titanium bracelet with Kevlar inserts. This is a near indestructible, true extreme sports watch.

RRP: ó 350,000. www.zenith-watches.com

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HOROLOGY

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HOROLOGY

< Breitling 2009 Bentley GT The Bentley GT is from the collection of watches made by Breitling that are dedicated to the luxury British motoring marque, Bentley. Each watch is made to have the same attention to power, luxury, exclusivity and high performance engineering found in Bentley motor cars. This latest 2009 chronograph watch features the distinctive Bentley ‘diamond quit’ motif around the bezel and chrome ringed dials, mirroring the dashboard.

The satin steel finish of the case and smooth black rubber bracelet lends a very contemporary edge to the watch while the chronograph dials are clocked one position from the standard, leaving room for the day/date indicator at the three o’clock position. The second hand can also be set to give a 30 second sweep, instead of the customary 60 second, for time measurements down to one eigth of a second.

RRP £4890. Tel: 020 7637 5167. www.breitling.com

<

DeWitt Academia Seconde Retrograde Serenity – Limited Edtion The robust contemporary styling of this watch is what makes it a standout piece. The big white gold case is crowned with a bezel whose stark design is replicated on the side of the case and on the crown. The black and silver dial is designed for maximum aesthetical impact and the retrograde seconds display shows off near balletic ingenuity. Appearing at the 6 o’clock position, once the second hand has traced its arc for the full 30 second period it gracefully glides back to zero to complete the full minute – a unique and eye catching complication.

Mechanical self winding movement. Black alligator leather strap with folding clasp buckle.

RRP £18,995. www.dewitt.ch

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EJC A4 May06.qxd

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HOROLOGY

Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200m The first thing you notice about this latest in the Seamaster series is the outsized protected crown that is at the nine o’clock position instead of the usual three o’clock, designed to provide maximum wrist movement for the left handed wearer. At the two o’clock position is the Ploprof’s signature bezel-release safety pusher featuring the orange anodised aluminium ring. When the wearer engages the pusher, the bezel can be rotated in any direction and then locked firmly to guarantee that it won’t be accidentally shifted during diving exercises. At four o’clock you will find an automatic helium escape valve, again very useful for divers.

The brushed stainless steel case is complemented by the polished, lacquered black dial and all hands and indicators are superluminova coated for reading in the dark. It’s rounded off with a moulded black rubber bracelet and, needless to say, the watch is waterproof to an amazing 1200 metres. A leader in modern sports watches.

RRP: £4780 www.omegawatches.com

<

< Harry Winston Project Z6 – Silver The Project Z6 is the new addition to the Harry Winston Z series, recently launched at Baselworld 2010. The Z series originally introduced an incredibly durable space age new material to watch making called Zalium; a zirconium based alloy also used in aeronautical engineering, and its distinctive lustrous gunmetal finish is exclusive to Harry Winston watches.

It’s this unique finish coupled with its daring watch face that makes this a futuristic masterpiece. This latest iteration of the Z series introduces a hand wound 24 hour alarm clock movement.

The hammer for the alarm is shown through the case, so it can be seen as well as heard, and individual alarms, as well as hour and minute repeaters, can be set with the multi-function crown.

The time and alarm dials overlap each other on the silver watch face and each have separate day and night indicators. The moulded black rubber strap completes the look.

RRP £29,750. Tel: 0207 907 8800. www.harrywinston.com

>

Bell & Ross BR-S Black Phantom Diamond – Ceramic A watch that is striking in its stark simplicity. The jet black case, dial and strap are uncompromising yet the photoluminescent coating on the dial still allows for night-time reading. Made entirely from Ceramic, the Phantom case is designed never to fade or lose its intense colour no matter how long or how often you wear it.

The bezel is set with a row of full cut brilliant diamonds, with single diamonds to denote the hours on the face. Hours, minutes, seconds function with Quartz calibre movement. A linked black ceramic strap completes the look.

RRP: £3,900 www.bellross.com

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HOROLOGY

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MOTORING

THE GENEVA MOTOR SHOW 2010 It’s one of the most prestigious car shows in the world. Patrick Anderson visited the glitz and the glamour of the Palexpo centre to give us a glimpse of what will be gracing our roads in the near future.

I

t started as far back as 1905, and wilst many others have come along after it, currently it is The Geneva Motor Show which holds the honour of being ‘the last annual car show left in Europe’. With this kind of a platform to showcase to the world, manufacturers and enthusiasts alike trip over themselves to exhibit at and visit with

this carmaker’s paradise. There were as many as 40 European and/or World premieres and 20 different concept prototypes from car makers across the globe on show as they all sought to hold their own in an ever shrinking marketplace.

Given the climate (economic as well as literal) there was also a heavier than usual emphasis on hybrid, electric and alternative fuel cars this year, ranging from small town and city cars to larger executive offerings. With too much to get excited over, here I’ve picked out a few of the gems that really caught my eye while I was there:

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>

< Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid it’s still just a concept but, a 500bhp V8 with dual electric motors that can do 0-60 in 3 secs, hit 198mph and achieve 78mpg Reality can’t come quick enough.

Ferrari 599 Hy-KERS this supercar employs Ferrari’s Formula One Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) to amplify it’s performance by up 107bhp while reducing its CO2 rating by 35%

Bentley Mulsanne the new Mulsanne will have a new 6.8L V8 engine that develops an impressive 505bhp with a stiffer chassis for better handling. I love it already.

Honda Mugen CR Z Sport Hybrid Coupe a new version of the hybrid with highly tuned and styled extras.

Alfa Romeo Guilietta a sleek new family sized hatchback from the Italian thoroughbreds.

Audi A1 e-tron a new challenger for the Mini which, in its 1-6 diesel model, is listed to give an impressive 72.4mpg

Audi RS 5 a 444bhp rival for the BMW M3 Coupe.

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Carbon as its name suggests, the upper body work is made entirely of carbon fibre and there are only two of these special edition models available, with a price tag of a cool ó 1.65 million each.

Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera a lightweight edition of the high powered supercar. 5.2ltr/562 bhp engine that develops 0-60 in under 3.5 secs. Phew!

Citroen DS3 Racing LE this is the muscular limited edition version of Citroen’s tasty new rival for Rover’s Mini that boasts a meaty 200bhp engine.

Saab 9-5 – the new 9-5 did make it to Geneva after the company was saved from closure by the Dutch supercar maker Spyker at the end of last year.

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MOTORING TEST DRIVE

A GOOD SIGN Patrick Anderson test drives the new Vauxhall Insignia 2L Elite Nav Sports Tourer Turbo

L

adies and gentlemen, here we have Vauxhall’s top of the range estate car which finally won GM (Vauxhall’s parent company) the 2009 European car of the year title, beating its rivals by a ‘hard to swallow’ one point.

This is the model that Vauxhall hopes will put it into the prestige car market and it has almost every addition a driver would need, but will this be the car to put Vauxhall over the top? With that thought in my head and the keys in my hand it was off to Paris I went to put this award winner through its paces.

First thing to report is that the Sports Tourer is a good looking car. It’s a substantial and comfortable five door estate with a massive rear boot space of 540 litres which can be expanded to 1510 litres with the rear seats down - so big it could almost be classed as living space.

The boot even has its own extra set of tail lights set inside the door and the model I tested came with the innovative Flexorganiser pack - side rails and a

3D storage net to hold loads in place and maximize the available space. The tailgate features automatic wide opening but it can be preset to open to only 75% to allow for low ceiling garages. I kept it at full open though because I’m rather fond of staying conscious and it meant I was in no danger of catching my head on a car’s tailgate for a change.

On the road the 2.0 litre 16v turbo engine was a little on the thirsty side, at roughly 26mpg overall, but the car had a satisfyingly fast response when you leant into the accelerator a little and the turbo kicked in. The six speed gearbox is very smooth and set with excellent gear ratios for most terrains and driving styles. As a result the 0-60 split is only 7.5 seconds, amazing for a car of this size and it goes some way to explaining its slightly fuel hungry propensity. It’s the reason why a huge 70 litre fuel tank is necessary on this model so be prepared to burn a hole in your bank balance if you’re prone to clocking up the miles each year.

As a driving experience there were a couple of little things which furrowed the brow slightly. It took a while to get used to the new electronic handbrake switch. With no handle to engage the handbrake sets itself almost automatically when needed and requires a hard stamp on the brake to release. Fortunately though, even on the steep streets of Montmartre, there was no roll back at all. Another thing I had to come to terms with was the omission of a cruise control function. Why is it not there? Answers on a postcard please. It meant that journeys on long boring speed restricted dual carriageways required constant and careful speed watching, detracting from the drive itself. And, as the French gendarmerie has a reputation for being pretty fierce on the roads, the listed top speed of 147mph will have to remain just a theory until the next time.

Putting that aside, the four wheel drive and adjustable suspension means the car handles really easily and road holding is excellent, even when well laden. The AFL intelligent adaptive forward lighting

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MOTORING TEST DRIVE

is also a great feature, sensing when the headlights need to be switched on as you enter into tunnels or dipped when it detects oncoming high beams from other cars on unlit roads.

also would have been great for those same mornings, but the heating in the car has separate passenger and drivers side controls so you can personally dictate just how quickly you need to get warm.

Inside the cockpit the upholstery and luxurious leather seats made for a comfortable journey to and from Paris, with the driver’s seat capable of being adjusted for precise individual driving position. Two preset positions can be stored for the driver’s seat (husband and wife) but sadly, as with most cars of this type, this function is not included for the front passenger side. Once you’re seated, starting a journey may also lead to a quick expletive or two as the seatbelt fastening is not where your hand instinctively leads you to. Instead it’s tucked up tight up against the central console box and very hard to locate when not looking. Making up for this shortcoming are the heated seat squabs which are a pleasing addition for the icy mornings. Unfortunately, heating elements aren’t included in the wing mirrors, which

The on board computer system and sat nav are clear and fast responding but, again, it’s a pity it doesn’t include postcode searching. Despite this I managed to navigate through Paris’ boulevards pretty easily as taking a wrong turn produced an instant corrective response from the system. Another bonus was that the Bluetooth phone kit was one of the best I have used and very easy to set up with my mobile phone.

So, does it meet the standards for the class it’s entering? All in all, at £30,020 on the road, in the Vauxhall Insignia 2L Sports Tourer GM finally do have a great estate car that can hold its own against its more prestigious rivals from the likes of BMW and Mercedes. How well it does in the market will be interesting to see.

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TRAVEL

CHEWTON GLEN

THE ULTIMATE WEEKEND DESTINATION Feature by Ataur Rahman

The last time I was anywhere near the New Forest was in my childhood as part of a school educational trip to experience nature and the great outdoors. I still have vague but fond memories of those few days, which was my first trip away from home. I remember we stayed in a log cabin

in what seemed like the middle of nowhere. The archery lessons, deer spotting, hiking and swimming are some of my memories, as is the storytelling by a campfire with cakes and hot milk before bedtime.

That was a while back, and although it’s always been my intention to return one day, it was only recently that I managed to actually do it. The excuse on this occasion was to attend the wedding of a close friend, at Beaulieu Abbey (http:// bit.ly/beaulieu-), a beautiful 13th century monastery built by Cistercian monks.

So whilst I had the opportunity, I thought I should make a weekend of it and stay at Chewton Glen which is located half an hour’s drive from the Abbey. As one of the UK’s top hotels, it has been on my wish list for years for a travel feature.

We arrived on the Friday evening around 8pm, about three hours later than planned. It was a tedious journey, with more than two hours delay caused by the simple act of imbecilic road workers who had laid out some cones to close off the 3rd lane on the motorway. Being a passionate driver, I’ve experienced gridlock on many an occasion in many a different city and country. But to date I can honestly say I have not once stood stationary in a car for more than 10/15 mins, if that. However, on this occasion, we didn’t move for more than 2 hours.

So as you can imagine, there I was assuming the worst; it was either a major traffic accident or essential road works that had closed off all lanes but the hard shoulder. Nope. Just a series of cones and no visible sign of activity other than the resulting gridlock! I don’t think it would be unfair for me to say

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that I wasn’t the only driver who perhaps wanted to just scream ‘pleasantries’ to those nice chaps! But given that it was my first taste of total gridlock, I took the Zen approach and relaxed. I mean, it had to happen to me at some point, right?

You can only be lucky for so long…

So having resigned myself to that thought, I arrived tired but in good spirits. I was really looking forward to a bit of pampering with plenty of rest and recuperation. And just as well, because Chewton Glen offered just that, and more!

Located in New Milton, Hampshire and on the edge of the New Forest (www. thenewforest.co.uk), the property dates back to the 18th century. Documents dating as far back as 1732 show details of land and premises known as ‘Chewton Glen House’, which is where the original

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portion of the hotel is understood to have been in existence. Over the course of centuries the building has undergone many changes and additional extensions to what it is today.

Comprising of 35 individually decorated rooms and 23 suites, Chewton Glen is a luxury spa hotel operating under private ownership. There’s plenty to do to keep even the most demanding of guests happy; like private dining, a comprehensive health club, award winning spa, a 9-hole, par 3 golf course and a variety of activities on and off the grounds.

Our stay involved getting a selection of treatments at the spa, which was the first priority following a hectic week. These included an Oxygen Boost (cleansing and exfoliation followed by intensive boost of oxygen to plump, heal and hydrate the skin) and Lomi Lomi Hawaiian Massage (deep tissue massage using long vigorous strokes with essential oils to release tension

and rejuvenate the body and mind) for me. My travelling companion opted for a Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage and a Pedicure. We were both very happy.

As for dining options, we decided to have both lunch and dinner at the hotel. The food is superb and consists mainly of locally sourced produce, which head chef Luke Matthews is very passionate about. Fruits, vegetables and game are all from the New Forest and fish is brought in from nearby Christchurch and Bournemouth. This ensures gastronomes get to enjoy a constantly evolving menu, which can change frequently due to the seasonal availability of key ingredients. Aside from the dining options, I would also recommend the afternoon tea which can be taken out in the terraces as well as in many of the dining and lounge areas. For a leisurely afternoon of non-activity, it is probably the nicest thing one can do.

For active types, there are plenty of options available. Whether it’s a round of golf, a spot of clay pigeon shooting on the grounds (which of course I just had to take advantage of!), horse riding and hiking in the New Forest or even a spot of sailing when weather permits, all can be easily arranged at reception.

However, as with most things, it is always advisable to check in advance and make reservations.

If you are planning a visit when the weather improves, you may want to head out to Bournemouth, which is a short drive away. It’s a great way to see more of our resort towns and make a day of it. A little further afield is the Dorset and East Devon coastline (www.jurassiccoast.com) which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Again, make a day of it and soak up the natural beauty that’s all around and perhaps even take out a boat for a guided trip or go on a tour of some of the local museums and local attractions.

As stressed out Londoners we tend to forget how easy and accessible a haven of tranquility like Chewton Glen is. With less than a couple of hours driving time from Central London (traffic permitting!), and you can soon forget about the frenetic lifestyle you’ve left behind for a few days whilst enjoying that one commodity we don’t have: time. As life passes us by we should take the time to pause and reflect more on what we are doing for ourselves.

I certainly did, and aim not to leave it for another couple of decades before returning to a place that I still have great memories of. And with Chewton Glen I’ve now added another one to that…

Chewton Glen New Milton Hampshire, BH25 6QS 01425 275 341 www.chewtonglen.com

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URBAN LIFE COMPETITION

WIN A LUXURY WEEKEND BREAK AT THE K CLUB!

Stunning five-star golf and spa resort, The K Club, is offering Urban Life readers the chance to relax in style with a two-night break for two at this magnificent chateau-style hotel, set amidst 550 acres of breathtaking countryside, yet just half an hour away from the delights of Dublin.

The award-winning resort boasts two championship golf courses; the Palmer Ryder Cup course and the Palmer Smurfit course, and the fabulous K Spa offering the ultimate relaxation experience with 14 treatment rooms, an infinity pool, jacuzzi, outdoor hot tub, experience showers, sauna, steam rooms and a vast selection of treatments from Aromatherapy Associates, Refinery for Men and Carita. Gourmets will enjoy The River Room restaurant which offers a delicious menu using locally-sourced produce and an extensive wine list, with tours of the hotel’s impressive wine cellar available to guests.

Urban Life is offering one lucky reader and their partner the chance to win this ultimate weekend break with two nights’ luxury accommodation at The K Club including full Irish breakfast each morning, a champagne afternoon tea, a luxury massage or facial spa treatment or a round of golf on each of the renowned courses as well as return flights to Dublin courtesy of Aer Lingus.

Guests can enjoy full use of the resort facilities, with activities

on offer including fishing on the River Liffey, clay-pigeon shooting, horse riding and cycling. Nearby attractions include Mondello Park International Racing Circuit, The Curragh racecourse and the National Irish Stud Farm.

Shopaholics meanwhile can shop ‘til they drop at Harvey Nichols in Dundrum, enjoy luxury lifestyle store Brown Thomas in Dublin or discover nearby Kildare Village Shopping Outlet, which features more than 50 luxury boutiques.

The K Club offers guests the ultimate K Spa experience from £248 per room for a one-night stay in a deluxe double room along with a one-hour spa treatment (facial or massage), a Rasul treatment for two

and a gourmet dinner in the resort’s River Room restaurant. For further information on The K Club visit www. kclub.ie or call 00 353 1 601 7200.

Aer Lingus operates daily flights from London Heathrow and London Gatwick to Dublin. Aer Lingus offers low cost flights without the compromise on quality and customer service, with free allocated seating, self service check-in kiosks, web check-in and a friendly and approachable onboard service. For full details on fares and schedules visit www.aerlingus.com

For your chance to win this fantastic weekend break, simply fill in the form below and send it to: Competitions Desk, Urban Life Magazine, 10 Greycoat Place, London, SW1P 1SB (or enter online by logging on to www.urbanlife-magazine.com) URBAN LIFE COMPETITION ENTRY FORM Name Profession/Job Title: Address: Town/City: Postcode: Contact telephone number: Email: Terms and conditions. 1. Closing date for the competition is 25th June 2010, with the draw taking place on the 28th June 2010. The winner will be chosen at random. 2. Editor’s decision final. No correspondence will be entered into. 3. Entrants must be over 18 and UK residents. 4. Accommodation is subject to availability 5. The prize is for a two-night stay for two adults at The K Club Golf & Spa resort, which must be taken before November 30th 2010 and excludes high season periods. 6. Holiday insurance is not included in the prize. 7. Return flights are provided by Aer Lingus. The winner may choose to travel from London Heathrow or London Gatwick to Dublin. Flights will be valid for 6 months from the time that the winner is notified. Flights are subject to schedule and availability. 8. Transport to and from The K Club, travel insurance, meals and other extras are excluded and at winners own cost. 9.

Full Irish breakfast on both mornings and one champagne afternoon tea is included within the prize. 10. Each guest will receive a complimentary facial or a massage treatment at The K Spa or one round of golf, or an alternative activity up to the value of £200.

11. Guests will have full use of The K Club’s extensive leisure facilities including sauna, steam room, infinity pool, outdoor hot tub, poolside jacuzzi and fully-equipped gym. 12. The winner is responsible for ensuring they have valid travel documents and travel insurance. 13. There is no cash alternative. 14. By entering this competition you are agreeing to let Urban Life use your details in future in-house marketing campaigns. 15. The K Club would like to keep you informed of future special offers and events. If you do NOT wish to receive such information, please tick here

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BEST OF BRITISH – UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

BENTLEY: FROM THERE TO MODERNITY

Walter Owen Bentley

Patrick Anderson traces the trials, tribulations and triumphs of Bentley Motor Cars, one of the world’s most prestigious automotive marques. we knew the history and we knew where it had all started.

It’s actually hard to conceive of it now but there was a period in my life when Bentley motor cars were considered to be pretty undesirable. In the early to mid 1980’s Bentley’s looked so similar to Rolls Royce’s that the only way to tell them apart at a distance was to check and see which one was sporting the famed ‘Flying Lady’ on its nose. Usually that was the one you wanted. It was as clear an indication as any of how low of a priority Bentley had become for Rolls Royce since their takeover of the company amid much pomp and circumstance many decades earlier in 1931. For true car lovers it was heartbreaking to see the predicament of such a classic English marque because

Preceding the Rolls Royce era was the explosive ‘Bentley Boys’ era. Bentley, the company, was started by Walter and Horace Bentley who took their combined expertise in World War I plane engine design and automotive business and applied it to the formation of Bentley Motors Ltd in 1919. Teaming up with a small, rag-tag band of financiers, aviators, sportsmen and doctors, the company essentially existed as a racing team that also sold cars to the rich and influential. Walter was the driving force behind it all with his near demented quest for more power and performance as the demand for more luxury and reliability increased in line with the growth of the world’s consumer automotive industries. Today it’s no surprise that those four traits, rooted deep in the psyche of its founder, are still the hallmark of the Bentley brand 90 years later.

Between 1923 and 1930 the name Bentley laid merry waste to the motor racing world, clocking up five wins at the Le Mans 24 hour race, including four consecutive triumphs, as well as numerous other motoring records and accolades. The ‘Bentley Boys’ team became renowned international playboys and when they celebrated their victories and successes they celebrated hard.

Some looked at their excesses with upper lips that were a bit too stiff but in general it was the stuff of Boy’s Own Adventures and it added to the mystique that was the growing Bentley brand.

Unfortunately, the onset of the Great Depression brought an untimely end to the jet set lifestyle and engineering ingenuity as collapsing demand for their luxury vehicles skewered the company.

On the brink of collapse the Bentley Boys were forced to accept a takeover offer from Rolls Royce, with Walter even being taken on as an employee so as not to completely sever him from his brainchild.

When the collaboration first began in the early thirties it was initially quite fruitful but seasoned observers soon began to characterize it as the dilution of the marque in the name of ‘market share’.

Rationalisation across the board soon became commonplace. Bentley cars were being systematically assimilated by the Rolls Royce brand. There seemed to be no strategy for Bentley and no enthusiasm from the management for the name. Before long the now famous factory in Crewe, North West England, was just manufacturing Rolls Royce cars with two different badges and a significant drop off in quality and price for the Bentley version. The performance heritage that Bentley had built on the track was a distant memory and, in terms of marketing, Bentley had become the poor man’s Rolls Royce in much the same way that Maserati was once seen as the poor man’s Ferrari.

The Bentley had been Ian Fleming’s car of choice for James Bond in his original novels but, by the eighties, it was nobody’s choice at all. Nobody in the generation that taste forgot wanted to be seen in one. In anybody’s language that ‘s a pretty damning, yet

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BEST OF BRITISH – UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT

1930 Bentley Blower at the French Grand Prix

justifiable, indictment. The Bentley’s of the seventies and eighties were simply boring and uninspiring.

It would be hard to actively try and manage a brand this badly and, by all reasonable natural laws, that should have been all she wrote. So it’s something of a minor miracle that today the name Bentley can actually carry more weight (metaphorically speaking, of course) than that of Rolls Royce when thrown together head to head in the ring.

At one point Bentley sales had dwindled so dramatically that the production ratio compared to Rolls Royce at Crewe had dropped to 5 to 95. Nowadays people actually talk of contemporary Bentley models with the reverence the marque deserves – Arnage, Azure, Continental GT, Flying Spur – all names that conjure the grand mystique of the Bentley Boys era, and rightfully so. With the best will in the world, it’s hard to think of a time

Bentley 1963 S3 Continental

when any Rolls model was referred to with such fervour. Bentley’s are, and should always have been, cars to be driven. Rolls Royce’s are, and will probably always remain, cars to be driven in. Come to think of it, this is probably the single biggest reason for the renaissance of one of Britain’s most prestigious luxury brands.

It took much longer than most aficionados would have liked but eventually, thankfully, someone with influence realized that the Bentley brand was originally sold to the public on a reputation of power, speed and performance and were not just luxury cruise ships for the road. This above all else was what made it successful in the first place. For it to survive and move forward it would have to go back to its roots. In 1980 Bentley’s parent company, Rolls Royce, was bought by industrial giants, Vickers, and tentative steps were

Bentley 2005 Mk II Azure

made to distinguish the brands and find the soul of Bentley motor cars once again. The release of models like the Mulsanne (aptly named after a corner at the Le Mans 24 hour racetrack) and, soon after, the Continental R and Turbo R series, would be the clear statements of intent from which the company would never stray again. It signalled the start of the long return to its racing pedigree and as the marque returned to its heritage so the customers returned to the marque. It was like air rushing into a vacuum. From a production ratio of 5:95 the balance was redressed to 50:50 in little more than a decade as demand for Bentley’s soared again. Soon after Bentley was outselling Rolls 2:1.

Central to this renaissance who could doubt the impact of the 1995 Azure and its later updates? It was the statement four seater convertible that replaced the tired Rolls Royce Corniche clone,

Bentley 2009 Arnage Final Series

Bentley 1957 S1 Coupe

Bentley 2001 Mk I Azure

Bentley 2005 Mk II Azure

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Bentley 2010 Continental Supersports Convertible

the Bentley Continental convertible.

Here was a sight to behold if you ever saw one. The first time I encountered the Mk II version I remember being taken aback by just how beautiful, and substantial, the thing was. But with its V8, 450bhp turbo charged engine it could still do 0-60 in under 6 seconds.

It’s probably not surprising then that the Azure was also rated as the least fuel efficient car available in its class by the US Department of Energy. Despite this it was exactly this combination of power, performance, design and luxury that had turned the marque’s fortunes on its head. By the early 2000s Volkswagen were now the owners of Rolls Royce and, even though the factory in Crewe was operating at full capacity, the demand for Bentley’s was so great there was still a waiting list of over a year if customers wanted a new car.

With the release of the Continental GT series in 2003 Bentley’s status as the car of choice was set. With its 6 litre, twin turbo W12 engine, smooth, sublime curves and dramatic snub nose it found much favour among the world’s most famous superstar actors, sportsmen and recording artists. It was rumoured that if you didn’t have a Continental GT coupe, or the later convertible version in your collection MTV Cribs wouldn’t visit you for their show. It was just a rumour, never proven, but the evidence certainly did seem to support the claim. Now on the hot on the tailpipes of recent models like The Brookland (named after the race track where the original Bentley first made its name in its heyday), The

Flying Spur and The Arnage comes the new 2010 Bentley Continental Supersports convertible.

0-60 in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 202mph will tell you that Bentley has truly come full circle and is back at its true heart and soul. The astonishing speed can be traced back to the same 6 litre, twin turbo engine from the Continental GT convertible developing 621bhp in a car that’s 90kg lighter and benefits from a new 6-speed transmission system that halves the gear shift times. Unsurprisingly, Bentley bill this car as: ‘the fastest drop-top we have ever built’. This is truly a car for the driver and even the dramatic new muscular styling pointedly reflects that ethos. Of course, the luxury inside the cockpit is second to none but, even in the coupe version, you wouldn’t want to be sitting in the back, you would want to be at the steering wheel, sampling every driving experience this precision

ñBentl ey has truly come full circle and is back at its true heart and soulî machine has to offer. Honestly, you would really want to be actually seen to be driving this car but we’ll just call that an ‘added bonus’ and hope nobody notices. The Supersports even attempts to claw back some desperately needed environmental points for Bentley by employing its new standard ‘Flexfuel’ technology that allows the car to run on unleaded petrol, biofuels or even a combination of both. While there is no real consensus on the net benefit of biofuels at the moment, Bentley tells us that the new technology affords a 70% overall reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, which can’t be a bad thing!

When all is said and done the Continental Supersports represents the very best of the very British luxury motoring marque we all know and love and it’s good to have it back on top form.

This car will surely prove to be the best Bentley yet – until the next one, the 2011 Mulsanne. We’re looking forward to it....

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14/5/09 6/10/08 16:11:28 12:16:05

PROPERTY – OVERSEAS

OVERSEAS PROPERTY: A HOME IN THE SUN

As we emerge out of recession and start to look forward again we invite Camilla Abbot, Director of property consultants Aylesford International, to tell us about the three main investment hotspots around the world currently at the top of her list.

SOUTH AFRICA On this side of the world the British markets have been battered recently by the crumbling Pound and buying property in Euros has shot up by about 30% in the last year alone. Having been so used to profiting from our strong currency, there are now very few places left that actually see us still getting a good return for our money. The South African Rand has been our faithful ally on this front and although there aren’t the same number of bargains around as there used to be when the

exchange rate was ZAR21.00 to the Pound (currently it stands at around ZAR11.00 to the Pound), it is still a great place to buy in terms of investment and lifestyle.

With the pending World Cup this summer, interest in property is increasing and those who are able to rent out their homes are seeing extremely good returns on their investment. Huge amounts of money are being invested into the country by Jacob Zuma’s government and his pledge to reduce crime and improve standards of

living are giving hope that this wonderful part of the world will no longer be tainted by its negative edge.

Property in Cape Town and along the wine route is phenomenal value in terms of equivalent locations elsewhere and the standards are exceptionally high. You can expect to see prices continuing to increase here and therefore residual values alone should provide an appealing reason to invest

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PROPERTY – OVERSEAS

Fisheagle Drive, Pezula

Assoufid

MOROCCO

Fisheagle Drive, Pezula

in South Africa. Indeed, my company handles a portfolio of properties in Cape Town that stretch from the famous Noordhoek Beach on the Atlantic Ocean (including the well known, 2.5 hectares Goedehoop Estate – currently on the market for ZAR25 million - it’s a horse lover’s paradise) to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where you can find a range of large free-standing homes and penthouses that start at around ZAR10 million going up to about ZAR90 million.

At the opposite end of Africa, Morocco has not only become a holiday hotspot for Europeans, with 5.5 million tourists visiting in 2009 alone, but it’s also grown into a popular destination for relocation and the purchasing of second homes.

Its close proximity to Europe (there are short direct flights from the UK, France, Belgium, Italy and Spain), low cost of living and year-round pleasant climate has made it an ideal holiday home destination. It also offers a good rental market with rental yields for properties in the major cities having been stable since 2008 at between 6% and 9%.

Kobba Villa

The ancient city of Marrakech offers captivating north African culture without compromising on life’s luxuries like award-winning spas, golf courses and resorts all within minutes from the airport. The £1 to MAD12.5 (Dirham) exchange rate means home buyers still get good value for money; whether buying an apartment, a renovated Riad or a villa within a full facility hotel & golf development.

Assoufid Interior

There are properties available right now throughout Morocco, ranging in price from ó 325,000 - ó 20m. For example, villas in Assoufid, the latest Rocco Forte Collection hotel and golf course development located 15min from Marrakech, start from ó 2.31m upwards.

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PROPERTY

Albany Club House

Albany Marina Pool

Albany - Marina Penthouse Pool

THE CARIBBEAN Appearing in the upper echelons of most people’s lists, the Caribbean has always been a favourite winter-sun getaway for the well-heeled British market due to its sun, sophistication and excellent flight infrastructure. When you arrive there are always plenty of things to do if you get bored with lying on the beach, especially with the world class golfing facilities in the region, which are always a major draw. It’s an amazing fact that forty percent of people who buy property in golfing resorts don’t even play golf!

But what they do enjoy is the space, the scenery, the amenities and the residual values that these developments provide.

The property market in the Caribbean has been hit like everywhere else, but developments on golf courses seem to be faring better than others and, given the strong re-sale market and dollar-based

economy, they offer very good investment opportunities for UK investors.

Another factor driving British buyers to this part of the world is the issue of re-locating to tax-friendly environments.

An alluring and desirable lifestyle will always be just that bit more appealing if you also don’t have to pay any major taxes. The Bahamas and St. Kitts are two cases in point that not only have excellent marinas, legendary golf courses and stupendous beachfront properties, but also benefit from a very attractive tax status.

The luxury resorts of Albany on New Providence in the Bahamas and Christophe Harbour in St Kitts are both currently under construction and seem to be bucking the trend of

drowning developers. Each one ticks all the boxes from my perspective, particularly because they are not eurobased schemes, which makes it slightly less painful to those buying with the wounded sterling – plus they are also two more tax friendly locations, thereby cementing their positions on the hotspots map. Prices at Albany start at (USD)$1.5m for a plot and (USD) $2.8m for a completed property, and Christophe Harbour’s properties start at (USD) $895,000 and plots at (USD) $520,000.

No matter where you may be looking, make sure to visit often and do your research – even if that research takes place on white sands overlooking clear blue waters with a Pina Colada in your hand. It’s something you won’t regret.

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PROPERTY

INTERIORS: COMPANY PROFILE - dwell Feature by: Paulina Nejman

dwell

High gloss Oblong side tables

Tapered rectangular coffee table

Two door sideboard

Furnishing a home can be a daunting task. The vast spectrum of styles, furniture, accessories and colour palettes that are available today can leave even the most experienced feeling a little daunted at the best of times, let alone the novice. The wide range of options that can make deciding what coffee table will sit comfortably next to the Chesterfield so difficult may be further compounded by a desire to also follow contemporary fads. However, as long as a plan is in place, there really isn’t much to it. It shouldn’t be forgotten that the best looking homes are the ones that are warm, welcoming and pleasing to the eye and is a reflection of individual taste and lifestyle.

to think of something they haven’t already!

Planning is key. The trick is to take the time to go through and view different options and then mix and match to create the ideal look that works best for you. And one of the best places to do this is at dwell; a furnishings company that has tapped into this approach to interior design, which recently opened a Central London flagship store on Tottenham Court Road. If you are looking for inspiration, you would be hard pressed

The range of products and styles they have available mean that you really are spoilt for choice and one of my personal favourites at the moment is lacquered furniture. This is a recurring trend that uses one of the best tools you can find for your design plan for a contemporary look. Like the Little Black Dress it’s so versatile because it complements almost everything with its simplicity and sleekness. Original lacquer-work from the Far East can be prohibitively expensive, but modern techniques for re-creating lacquered furniture means it has become accessible to even the most demanding of budgets, allowing you to give your home something a little more special.

Some of the pieces that caught my eye from the their collection include the oblong glossy side tables, in black or neutral, which are perfect examples of how to create simple yet striking points of interests, either as stand-alone pieces or as platforms for sculptures or vases in contemporary or traditional settings.

Or if you need something more practical

Circular table with tapered central base

Spectrum tall chest of drawers

Cube side table

then opt for the cube side table that can double up as storage space or even an extra seat. The white lacquered circular table, with the tapered central base, is an item that would look fantastic in a modern kitchen, especially if you team it with some Verner Panton classic ‘S’ chairs.

With rooms that have a lot going on it’s always best to go for a handle and knobfree look for your storage pieces, like the fabulous dwell two-door lacquered sideboard in grey.

Whatever the style of your home if you are missing that essential piece of furniture, plain coloured lacquer will always look stylish and current. Find these pieces and more at the new flagship store where it’s promised you will be immersed in the full interior furnishings experience. For those of us that need a little bit of extra planning and inspiration it’s going to be a good place to start…

dwell flagship store: 200 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 9PL. Tel: 0845 002 1040 www.dwell.co.uk

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PROPERTY – PERSONALITY PROFILE

Sammy Lee

INVESTED DEVELOPMENTS Paulina Nejman meets luxury property developer Sammy Lee been a successful lawyer, a hotelier, corporate financier and, perhaps most tangentially of all, a successful movie producer – Charlize Theron won an Oscar in 2004 for her lead role in the movie, Monster , which was produced by none other than Sammy Lee. It’s this reliance on his keen instincts, honed with years of experience that begins to lift the veil on his incredible success.

At a time when high-end residential properties are being snapped up for upwards of £100 million, a ‘mere’ £18 million for a penthouse in the heart of central London does not sound particularly extravagant, but in 2005 it was practically unheard of. And if you had 204 comparable apartments to market and sell in one development, where the price per square foot was almost 100% higher than the local average, then you were simply called crazy. These are the ‘crazy’ figures that made Sammy Lee one of the most successful property developers of his generation and his residential project, The Knightsbridge, referred to with the heady accolade ‘the most desirable address in the world’.

As Sammy proudly explains, five years later and despite the recession and the considerable downturn in the property market, The Knightsbridge is still maintaining its value “because you can’t find anything else like it in London”. The question is though, just who is Sammy Lee and how did he get to be quite this good? It’s actually difficult to define him with just one word. First and foremost he’s an entrepreneur but he has also

Meeting him in person at his mews house at The Knightsbridge is somewhat disarming but, perhaps, this is another part of his success. There are none of the superior airs and graces you might expect of, say, a Donald trump, someone who Lee has worked with in the past.

“We did a lot of business back in the mid 90’s”, he tells me. He was working for the Cheng family at the time, one of China’s biggest business dynasties, and they had all made a killing building apartment developments in New York.

But by 2003 Sammy’s instincts told him it was time to sell up and move on. “The Cheng family followed my advice and sold everything they owned in the States, not just the stake in Donald’s projects.

By the following year the US property market hit a major downturn”.

It’s at this point you start to wonder whether there is something otherworldly about Sammy’s ability to ‘read’ business.

Nobody could just be that ‘lucky’, could they? Well, 199 Knightsbridge, SW1, is not an address someone could just throw together hoping for a bit of luck.

If there wasn’t a vision, it wouldn’t have

happened and it was exactly that vision that the prospective buyers were sold on . “Even before the demolition work had begun on the old building on the site, between 20 to 30 percent of the occupancy was sold” - Sammy snaps his fingers - “just like that”. His ‘matter of fact-ness’ about it makes you smile.

This is just what he does and he’s one of the best at it. He seems to posses an absolute, almost Zen like confidence in his own ability and anybody with such a ‘Midas touch’ would probably be the same.

The Knightsbridge development is really where Sammy invested a massive amount of himself, as well as his money.

As the point man for the development he approved every last thing, right down to the toilet seats used throughout.

This was truly his baby and he wasn’t just out to sell property, he was out to sell a lifestyle. “I wanted to create that ‘wow’ factor, that welcome home kind of feeling. After a long day at work you walk through the entrance and you feel like this is a nice place to come back to. And all the wide open spaces allow residents to congregate and talk, building the bonds of community, not just people living as residents”. For him it was the prospective owner’s comfort and wellbeing that was paramount and, as a resident himself, he made

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sure his vision was delivered to the letter. Integral to his plan was the full provision, worldwide concierge service provided to each Knightsbridge resident from The Hyatt Hotels group. Running at up to £50,000 per year it provides the pinnacle in serviced modern city living and was, in this form, the first of its kind anywhere in the world when introduced.

It’s actually surprising then that a man this successful, who could count the

late Michael Jackson and Donald Trump as close friends, should be quite such an unknown figure but this, it turns out, is very deliberate. Sammy Lee is not the type to be driven by a desire for limelight, far from it. Just hearing him talk about the things he’s done is enough for you to know that it’s his work and his creative visions that make him professionally happy . Testament to this is that, five years on, Sammy is still very much involved with the management and running of The Knightsbridge and maintains his permanent residence there for when he is in London. But what next for the King Midas?

“There are preliminary plans afoot for a new venture located in Henley-onThames where I’ve acquired a beautiful piece of land, which, ironically, used

to be a young offenders institution.”

Currently he’s in negotiation with the local authorities there to build a highend estate with horse stables, polo fields and an artificial lake on the land that will extend ‘The Knightsbridge’ brand beyond central London. Would he helm another huge project such as The Knightsbridge though? He shakes his head. “I want to do real estate in London but not to such an extent for now. With the residential market not being so stable the way forward is small, focused projects either apartments or a big one-family house. I’m looking for something in the Belgravia area right now”.

ñI wanted to create that ïwowÍ factor.

That welcome home kind of feelingî Pass through Knightsbridge at the moment and you can’t help but notice the massive construction work going on at One Hyde Park, the luxury residential development almost directly opposite The Knightsbridge with seemingly the same business model but not quite the same subtlety. Mention it to Sammy and he just smiles. “I was the first”. In business, to be able to say that is worth more than gold.

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TECHNOLOGY

HIGH TECH A look into the world of innovative consumer technology

Orange

offer the Xperia X10, Sony Ericsson’s first android device, across all its retail channels on selected pay monthly plans from April. The 3G+ enabled phone features Google’s Android operating system and Sony Ericsson’s User Experience (UX) interface, including Timescape and Mediaspace, which allow for content to be managed more intuitively to offer a richer multimedia user experience.

For those with a desire to simplify their connectivity across the social media spectrum (Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, etc), this device will offer an exciting array of features to aggregate interactions with contacts into one view.

Specs-wise, it has an 8.1 megapixel auto-focus camera and camcorder, 4” WVGA touchscreen, 1GB of internal memory and 8GB MicroSD card. Pretty exciting stuff!

For more information, technical specifications and pricing plans, log on to the website: www.orange.co.uk/shop

Olympus E-PL1 If you are looking for a decent camera, but without the bulk or complexity of an SLR, then this might be your thing. The E-PL1 is a 2.7”, 12.3 megapixel point and shoot camera, with HD recording capability. It comes with six Art Filters (pop art, soft focus, etc), allowing for those with a creative streak to let loose.

The i-Enhance , e-Portrait and AF tracking options allow for a richer and smoother finish to pictures, including when subject matters are moving. Other features include Image Stabilisation, Face Detection, i-Auto and an interchangeable lens option, which will allow for professional-quality pictures, but without the price tag.

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< Orange recently announced that it is to

Freecom ToughDrive Sport Choosing a portable storage device these days is a bit like choosing a mobile phone: which brand, design and what storage capacity do you opt for? Then there’s the aesthetic consideration. Matt black or platinum grey? Well, if you’re after substance over style and want something that’s robust and durable enough for use outdoors as well as in, then the ToughDrive Sport will serve your purpose. It’s shock-resistant and finished in a rugged and durable style. It has an integrated rope-like USB cable which will withstand hardcore wear and tear and even has a handy loop which you can use to attach it to a utility belt or bag.

On the security side, user’s can set a password which is stored on a 256bit hardware chip, which means peace of mind when saving sensitive data.

Prices start from ó 99 for 250gb - ó 179 for 640GB. www.freecom.com

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RRP £549.99 For more technical specifications, accessories and stockists, log on to the website: www.olympus.co.uk

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TECHNOLOGY

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Sagem Pumaphone Just about to go on general release is the new Pumaphone from Sagem, which was premiered at the recent Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

This new generation smartphone is packed with features designed for those with an active lifestyle, including a pedometer, a stopwatch and a GPS tracker for the athletic amongst you. As for the rest - full internet and WAP browsing, music with playlist support, VGA video call camera with recording, steaming and progressive download capability. Then there’s the 3.2 megapixel camera, mobile email client and full messaging capability in all formats! Phew! One of the best things about the phone is the integrated solar cell with charge indicator, which should go towards reducing your carbon foot print by a little touch. Hey, it may be a token amount, but it’s a move in the right direction. After all, every little counts!

For full technical specifications, prices and stockist details, log onto the website at www.pumaphone.com

Editor’s Choice: Sanyo Xacti

First shown at the Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas earlier in the year, the Xacti is living up to all the hype surrounding its launch. As the world’s smallest dual-use handheld HD camcorder, this little gadget not only looks the part but records videos in high-res with superb quality.

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You can shoot HD in 1080i and photos at up to 8 megapixels. The fold-out 2.7inch TFT LCD tilting screen allows for a wider range of motion to capture subject matters from all angles. The resulting picture clarity and sound quality are superb. The only testing thing we found was trying to use the camera, which takes a little getting used to. But to be honest, just for the sheer quality of video recordings alone, it is a very worthy investment. And it’s small and light enough to carry in the pocket. A great tool for bloggers and budding film makers.

RRP: £249 For more detailed technical specifications, visit the website: www.Sanyo.com

Freecom Hard Drive XS 3.0 < Another portable storage device from Freecom, but this one is über-cool! This is (according to the manufacturers) the first external hard drive to offer ‘super-speed’ technology, with data transfer speeds of up to 5GB/s using USB 3.0.

At 3.5”, it’s also very small, so will not take too much space on the desk top. And at a capacity of 1TB, this little unit can really take care of business. Should suffice for most professionals needs, and more than suffice for even the most demanding family environments.

Prices start from £119.99 for 1TB. www.Freecom.com

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ART & CULTURE

ART EXHIBITIONS

Andy WArhol: PortrAits Olyvia Fine Arts 17 Ryder Street London SW1Y 6PY Tel: 0207 925 2986 www.olyviafineart.com Until 6th June, 2010 There’s not much that hasn’t been said or written about the legendary Andy Warhol.

He belongs to that select band of artists whose name transcends the confines of the art world and of that select band he is probably the most iconic. After all this is the man who is the father of the phrase ‘Fifteen minutes of fame’, and in his home state of Pennsylvania, USA, the Andy Warhol Museum stands as a permanent celebration of one of their most famous sons.

This exhibition concentrates on some of Warhol’s most celebrated works as well revealing some of his previously hidden gems. All the work showcases Warhol’s signature vivid and distinctive style. Alongside these exclusive portraits will be a rare series of ‘Screen Tests’.

These enchanting silent films created

by Warhol provide a voyeuristic record of the characters that once roamed his famous Factory art studio, so expect to see people like Edie Sedgwick and Candy Darling floating across the screen.

A fascinating insight into the world of Warhol.

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ART & CULTURE

IrvIng Penn: PortraIts The National Portrait Gallery St Martin’s Place London WC2H 0HE Tel: 0207 306 0055 www.npg.org.uk Price £10 (£9 and £8 concessions) Until 6th June, 2010 Widely recognised as one of the great photographers of our time, Irving Penn died in October last year at the grand old age of 92. The cultural significance of his near full century cannot be underestimated and there is almost noone of any note who he has not captured on film. Indeed, there was a time when Penn would fill roughly 300 of Vogue magazine’s pages with his work each year, a feat most other world class photographers couldn’t hope to match.

As the title indicates, this exhibition focuses specifically on his portraits of major cultural figures of the last seven decades. Penn photographed an extraordinary range of sitters from the worlds of literature, music and the visual and performing arts. Among those featured in the exhibition are Truman Capote, Salvador Dali, Christian Dior, Alfred Hitchcock, Duke Ellington, Grace Kelly, Rudolf Nureyev, Al Pacino, The Grateful Dead, Pablo Picasso and Nicole Kidman.

The exhibition is brought together from major international collections and includes over 120 silver and platinum prints, many vintage, ranging from his portraits for Vogue magazine in the 1940s to some of his last work.

Marlene Dietrich, New York, 1948 by Irving Penn.

Smithsonian Institution. Gift of Irving Penn. c CondÇ Nast Publications, Inc.

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ART & CULTURE

Brave New World

Brave New World

Nicolas Ruston

Brave New World

Sovereign european art prize

Henry Moore

The Barbican Silk Street London EC2Y 8DS Tel: 020 7638 8891 www.barbican.org.uk

Tate Britain Millbank London SW1P 4RG Tel: 0207 887 8888 www.tate.org.uk

From 9 – 20th June, 2010

Price £12.50 (£11 concessions) Until 8th August, 2010

The Sovereign European Art Prize was launched in 2005 as a way of fostering and nurturing the talents of the best of the new and up and coming artists shortlisted by a panel of industry professionals each year. A major London venue is then chosen to show the work by the shortlisted artists and this year it will be held at the Barbican centre in the summer. There are two awards up for grabs – the main award chosen by the judges, which carries with it a ó 25,000 prize, and the public choice which carries a ó 1,000 prize.

Shortlisted for this year’s Sovereign Art Prize is former Urban Life art feature interviewee, Nicolas Ruston, who has been selected for his silicone based painting, A Brave New World. Among the judges is another former Urban Life art feature interviewee, Nasser Azam. The public vote can be made either at the exhibition in June or at any time before the closing date online at: www. sovereignartfoundation.com. Once the exhibition is over all the displayed works, apart from the main prize winner’s, will be available to buy at a gala dinner and auction and all proceeds will be split evenly between the foundation and the artists.

As an indication of the quality of this year’s competition Howard Bilton, Founder and Chairman of the Sovereign Art Foundation, said recently, “We are delighted by the strength of this year’s shortlist and we hope the auction will raise a significant sum to support the inspiring work of the Barbican Centre Trust.

We invite everyone to go to the exhibition, and to support the initiative by coming to the dinner or by placing an absentee bid on their favourite works by these critically acclaimed artists.”

Henry Moore (1898–1986) was known as a rebellious nonconformist as well as one of Britain’s greatest and most respected artists. Foregoing the advice of his teachers and mentors, he took a lot of his inspiration from the non-Western works he saw in museums and used it to create radical, experimental and avant-garde forms derived from the human body. This stunning exhibition takes a fresh look at his work and legacy, presenting over 150 stone sculptures, wood carvings, bronzes and drawings.

The works themselves can be placed in the twentieth century’s turbulent ebb and flow, sometimes uncovering a dark and erotically charged dimension that makes us look at them in a new light. The trauma of war, the advent of psychoanalysis, new ideas of sexuality, primitive art and surrealism all had an influence on Moore’s work.

Highlights of the show include a group of key reclining figures carved in Elm, which illustrate the development of this key reoccuring image over his career. Moore was an Official War Artist and his drawings of huddled Londoners sheltering from the onslaught of the Blitz captured the popular imagination, winning him a place in the hearts of the public. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to truly understand this artist’s muchloved work as Britain’s most successful sculptor.

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1.æHomet ownæ3æb yæHeæ Hongæ Wei,æ oilæ onæ canvas,æ £5000.æ 2.æ Cityæ ofæ Myæ Dreamsæ byæ Ketiæ Shalamberidze,æ mixedæmed iaæon æp aper,æ£750. æ 3.æ Nudeæ byæ Nguyenæ Than,æ watercolouræ onæ paper,æ £1000.æ 4.æ Asianæ Girlæ byæ Tataniaæ Boulia,æoilæon æcan vas,æ £750.æ 5.æ Girlæ inæ Redæ byæ Nguyenæ Thanhæ Binh,æ oilæ onæ canvas,æ £1250

Inspire Your Collection Exquisite contemporary fine art from Vietnam, China and Georgia

Oc-Eo Gallery, 85 Canonbury Road, London N1 2DG, 07775 795 867, info@oc-eo.com, www.oc-eo.com

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URBAN TASTE

EAT ING OUT 2010 OFF THE WALL When the invitation arrived to review the new Off The Wall restaurant I was a little sceptical. I’m a huge fan of Michael Jackson but did I really want the experience of a ‘Jacko’ themed restaurant (for those that don’t know, Jackson’s first, and best, album was called ‘Off The Wall’)? Fortunately, after doing a little research I realised that the place was so called because it’s situated just off London Wall, in between Moorgate and Liverpool Street. It has to be said, I was grateful for that little bit of diligence because it would have been a shame to miss out on this very sexy little eatery.

Off The Wall is actually part of the very chic Apex London Wall, a boutique luxury four star hotel. Myself and my dining companion, Zara, visited on a Friday night and, as anyone who knows The City will tell you, by Friday afternoon all the bankers and stockbrokers are already on their way home, on their way to the country or on their way to Val D’isere.

The streets, and hence the restaurant, were very quiet but that made for an even better evening. Being brand new – the hotel only opened in November 2009 – the restaurant has a great design aesthetic, very modern and very contemporary; the kind of place you wouldn’t mind making an effort for. It also has quite an intimate atmosphere, with tables grouped into sections so there’s no feeling of being in a ‘canteen’. Dining on a quiet Friday night

with seductive mood lighting is probably very different to being there on a Tuesday afternoon for lunch but, for us, it was great.

With surroundings this good the food was going to have to go some way to match.

We started with an amuse bouche of chicken liver pate with apple chutney and pink salt on golden bruschetta which was a tasty prelude for what was to come.

By this time we had downed a couple of Strawberry Bellinis (£10.50) and decided to dive straight into the main courses.

I had the Guinea Fowl with Broccoli Sprouts and Red Onions (£15.00) while Zara opted for the Scottish Sirloin Steak with sautéed mushrooms and Béarnaise sauce (£18.00). Great artistic care had been taken with the presentation of each meal but all that was left by the time we had finished were the plates. Each had fantastic flavours and textures that befitted the surroundings and, judging by how well it went down, a glass of 2008 Val Di Vieso Merlot (£6.00) is heartily recommended with the steak.

With such a good first and second act the third act arrived hotly anticipated.

The Sticky Toffee Pudding with Prune and Almagnac ice cream (£6.50) made me almost giddy it was so good but the Rhubarb Crumble with Custard (£6.50) didn’t have quite the same impact for Zara. Served in what was essentially

a large mug, it didn’t quite match the presentation quotient of everything else and because the custard was the topping to the crumble it wasn’t long before it had softened the crumble altogether.

It’s a small gripe in an otherwise fantastic meal and it was outweighed by the lively discussion we had with the head chef, Giovanni De Rosa, over a glass of 2004 Graham Beck Rhona Muscadel desert wine (£7.00) which went down beautifully.

This place really is a little gem and it’s hard to underestimate just how nice it is to be served by people who genuinely smile, like the manager, Diego, and our waitress on the night (whose name I wish I could remember). It is a little ironic though that a restaurant that shares it’s name with Michael Jackson’s greatest album should pay so little attention to the ‘ambience music’. At times it was like listening to the Radio One daytime playlist – from the past five years. It took us out of the moment sometimes and a little more thought on this score would make Off The Wall hard to beat for an evening out.

Andre Gayle Off The Wall at the Apex, London Wall.

7-9 Copthall Avenue, London EC2R 7NJ. www.apexhotels.co.uk Tel: 0207 562 3060

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URBAN TASTE

VINERIA

Conveniently situated between Maida Vale and St. John’s Wood and a mere stone’s throw from Abbey Road studios, Vineria is the new kid on the block for Italian regional cuisine in London. It’s the first venture outside of Italy for the Vineria Group, which has four other successful restaurants in and around the Venice region.

First impression of Vineria is of a typical local Italian eatery. It’s small yet airy with nice décor and a warm cosy feel from the moment you walk in. The service is at times a little staggered, but more than made up for it with warmth and a genuine desire to please. Our Matre’d, Signor Simone, is also one of the directors and he’s a softly-spoken man who doesn’t say much, but has a tremendous knowledge of food and wine, which is evident with a little probing.

9.30pm by the time we got there). To start with, we ordered a Capesante con pesto di pomodoro e verdurine (seared sea scallops with baby spinach, crunchy vegetables and tomato pesto - £10.00) for my dining companion and Melanzane alla Parmigiana (oven baked layers of aubergine with parmesan cheese, buffalo mozzarella, basil and tomato sauce - £8.00) for myself. Both dishes were exceptionally yummy and just the right start to whet the appetite. So far so good.

and the stacks of empty plates leaving the other tables (we weren’t the only late arrivals), I think most of our fellow diners were in agreement.

For the main course my dining companion ordered a Medaglione di cervo con salsa ai frutti di bosco e pure di patate (Pan fried medallions of venison with mash and berries sauce - £19.00), whilst I opted for an Involtino di merluzzo e melanzane con salva Mediterranea (Oven baked fillet of cod wrapped in aubergines with capers, olives and tomato sauce £16.50), with a couple of sides. The venison was tender and succulent and my cod was cooked to perfection. Both dishes, as with the starters, were presented well and tasted like, well, how good food should taste.

And judging by the buzz in the restaurant,

Head chef Francesco di Noia has created a simple but well thought out menu that touches on the various regional influences that he’s passionate about bringing to London diners. We all know of a little neighbourhood Italian near us and well, I think Vineria has just claimed that title for St John’s Wood. It’s just a shame it’s not my neighbourhood…

For dessert we rounded off with just a Sebadas con gelato allo zafferano (Sardinian pastry parcels filled with cheese, drizzled with honey and served with saffron ice cream - £6.00) between us and coffees. for drinks we stuck with water throughtout.

Ataur Rahman Vineria 1 Blenheim Terrace St. John’s Wood London NW8 OEH 0207 328 5014 www.vineria.it

It was a Monday evening and I was in the company of an artist friend who I hadn’t seen for a while, so I had high hopes for the food to be as good as the company!

We wasted no time in ordering (it was

These days, luxury is a much-devalued word.

Some people, however, refuse to compromise on standards.

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Mehek Indian Restaurant

45 London Wall, Moorgate London EC2M 5TE Telephone: 020 7588 5043/7588 5044 Facsimile: 020 7588 5045 Email: info@mehek.co.uk Website: www.mehek.co.uk

If you are one of them, then you'll find Mehek has been created especially for you, where fine dining is truly exquisite, and where sumptuous cuisine and some of the world's finest wines are served in exclusive surroundings.

After all, your parties and events are too precious to be left to chance, and too important to expose to indifferent service or inferior food standards.

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Some of the acclaims for Mehek: Multiple times winner of the AA Rosette Awards, winner of the British Curry Awards, BCA no.1 in the City, Best In Britain Awards, Safety Thirst, City of London Safer Pub & Club Awards, TopTable Gold Award, and numerous recommendations by restaurant guides, newspapers and magazines.

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Urban Life Fashion & Media Industry NightsĆ&#x2019; A series of private and exclusive invitation-only events for those in the creative sectors. Look out for the event images starting with the next edition of Urban Life.

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