Savoy Magazine Issue 1 2016

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LONDON CALLING Our guide to the very best events and exhibitions Elegance

dynasty of diamonds

BOODLES SHINES A LIGHT ON ITS FAMILY LEGACY

Style

HIGH FLYERS

Why private aviation can be essential for business or pleasure

Heritage

timeless luxury

Discover Patek Philippe's 'tradition of innovation'

spring into summer

TOP SEASONAL FASHION TRENDS TO LOOK FORWARD TO THIS YEAR

GLAMOROUS GETAWAYS

Destinations you won’t want to miss in the months ahead Exclusive

BEST OF BRITISH

How BAFTA is forging a bright future for UK film

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SAVOY

WELCOME ✦

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The place to be and to be seen

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’m delighted that you have in your hands the inaugural issue of the official Savoy magazine.

This is a project close to my heart, as we pride ourselves on being a hotel built on stories – and where better to share our stories with you than in our very own luxury publication?

The Savoy enjoys a reputation as London’s most celebrated and glamorous five-star hotel. It has always been, and is to this day, the place to be and to be seen – if The Savoy’s four walls could talk, they would certainly have many sensational tales of the great and the good to tell.

We’re proud of an incredible heritage here at The Savoy – 126 years of rich history – but are also proud of our innovative approach to the future of luxury travel. However, as we continue to set 21st-century standards, the one thing that will forever remain a seamless thread throughout The Savoy’s history, and on into the future, is our passion for providing a service that surpasses all others.

In this first issue, we’re excited to give you an insight into one of our most valued partners, as we hear from Amanda Berry, chief executive of the EE British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). We look forward to being BAFTA’s official hotel partner for the fifth year running, when the red carpet gets rolled out for the film awards in February 2016.

Other features to look forward to include an exclusive interview with Thierry Stern, president of Patek Philippe, who talks about the brand’s ‘tradition of innovation’. Elsewhere, we profile some of the best events and art exhibitions to look forward to in London over the coming months, and hear from the experts about their travel and fashion forecasts for 2016.

Get a ‘behind-the-scenes’ insight into The Savoy, where we chat to some of its key players, such as executive chef Holger Jackisch and wedding planner Bruce Russell. We’ll also be hearing from leading jewellers Boodles to find out more about their quintessentially British legacy, as well as one of our main food and beverage suppliers, Bacardi Brown-Forman.

All this and more can be found in the first edition of the Savoy magazine. It has been a real pleasure bringing the hotel to life through the pages of this publication, and I do hope you will enjoy your read.

KIARAN MACDONALD MANAGING DIRECTOR THE SAVOY

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CONTENTS

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THE EVENTS From cocktails to cabaret

THE WATCHES Why time really can be money

THE DESTINATION The Plaza’s New (York) look

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THE SUITES Hotel rooms with a view

THE BRAND Patek Philippe’s Thierry Stern

THE INSTITUTION BAFTA chief exec Amanda Berry

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THE RESTAURANTS World-class food and drink

THE CAR The all-new XF from Jaguar

THE FASHION This season’s hottest trends

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THE TEAM Executive chef Holger Jackisch

THE JETS Aviation for business and pleasure

THE JEWELLERY Boodles’ British family legacy

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THE SUPPLIER Bacardi Brown-Forman spirits

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THE JOURNEYS Kuoni Travel’s forecasts for 2016

THE WEDDINGS Wedding planner Bruce Russell

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11 EDITOR Frederick Latty flatty@markerstudy.com HEAD OF DESIGN Rowena Cremer-Price rcremer-price@markerstudy.com PUBLISHING DESIGN MANAGER Xela Ruy xruy@markerstudy.com

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PRODUCTION Lauren Chalmers-Stevens lchalmers-stevens@markerstudy.com Natalia Bedwell nbedwell@markerstudy.com COMMERCIAL Joe Stoner jstoner@markerstudy.com Amanda Morreale amorreale@markerstudy.com Gemma Hak ghak@markerstudy.com

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@markerstudy.com COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Nick Moore nmoore@markerstudy.com CONTRIBUTORS Matt Kimberley Kuoni Travel

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THE PROPERTY Super-prime London insight

THE THEATRE A century on The Savoy stage

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THE SHOWS Some of the greatest on Earth

THE GALLERIES Capital collections and exhibitions

Richard Koe MANAGING DIRECTOR

WINGX Advance

Alison Chambers PRINCIPAL

Emerald Media

Jane Stanbury PRINCIPAL

Emerald Media

Martin Wilson WATCH CONSULTANT

www.watchconsultant.co.uk

ONE MEDIA AND CREATIVE UK LTD 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU 01892 779 650 • www.one-media.co Savoy Magazine is owned by The Savoy and published/distributed by One Media and Creative UK Ltd. All rights reserved.

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher. All prices are correct at the time of going to print. Neither the publisher nor the owner can accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher or owner.

No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

Catherine de Crèvecoeur IMAGE CONSULTANT AND STYLIST

www.stylepourmoi.com

Tom Bill HEAD OF LONDON RESIDENTIAL RESEARCH

Knight Frank

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SAVOY

Live

EVENTS

ENTERTAINMENT

During your stay with us, why not treat yourself to one of our unmissable events? From cabaret and burlesque evenings to dinner dances, historical tours and cocktail

Cocktail master-class

master-classes, there’s plenty to look forward to from

11am to 1pm, £185 per person for up to four people

January to March 2016. Read on to find out more...

SATURDAY MARCH 12 The master-class will be hosted by a senior bartender from the American or Beaufort Bar. A must for those who enjoy innovative cocktails, classic or new, the event includes lessons on how to make four cocktails, learning about the history of spirits and the influence The Savoy had on the cocktail world. The class finishes with a three-course meal in Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill.

Evenings of cabaret and burlesque at The Savoy FRIDAY FEBRUARY 5 AND SUNDAY MARCH 6

Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 7.30pm. £30 per person

Dinner dance SATURDAY FEBRUARY 27 2016

Cocktail reception at 8pm, dinner and entertainment start at 8.30pm. £125 per person

Over 80 years after they first started at The Savoy, cabaret evenings return to the Beaufort Bar, hosted by Miss Polly Rae – one of the most renowned burlesque and cabaret stars in the UK today. The line-up changes each month and includes some of the hottest names from the London cabaret scene. Guest stars include Chris Hamilton with his sparkling piano playing, and scintillating vocals from Shimi Goodman, currently in the West End production of From Here to Eternity. Our cabaret evenings will also feature performances from the glamorous international burlesque/cabaret star and classical pianist, Chrys Columbine, musical magic from Alexis and Maya, the breathtaking acrobatic skills of Sammy Dineen and world award-winning juggling from Florian.

Following in the footsteps of Carroll Gibbons and his legendary Savoy Orpheans, the young Alex Mendham & His Orchestra have taken up the baton as resident dance orchestra for The Savoy, playing the sounds of the Art Deco era with unmatched sophistication. Cut a rug under the stunning glass cupola in the Thames Foyer with a three-course dinner and a floor that will encourage dancing until midnight.

Historical tours with The Savoy’s archivist MONDAY FEBRUARY 1 AND MONDAY MARCH 7 2016

4pm to 5.30pm. One-hour tour starting at 4pm, followed by Q&A in The Savoy Museum with a glass of Champagne. £40 per person In celebration of 125 years since opening, The Savoy introduced historical tours with hotel archivist Susan Scott. Up to eight guests can take an exclusive walk around the hotel, seeing some of the most notable rooms, hearing tales from its long history and finishing with a glass of Champagne in the Museum Bar.

To make a reservation or for more details about the events and master-classes at The Savoy, please telephone 020 7420 2111, email savoy@fairmont.com or visit www.fairmont.com/savoy-london/promotions/culinaryevents

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JEWELLERY

ROYAL SUITE DRESSING ROOM

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SAVOY ROOMS

ONE-BEDROOM RIVER VIEW SUITE

Sumptuous

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Any stay at The Savoy is a special occasion, and our lavish living spaces are an integral part of making your visit a relaxing and enjoyable one. From guest rooms to personality suites, we take you on a guided tour of our finest accommodations

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t’s not every day you get to sleep in opulent style at one of the world’s most acclaimed hotels and wake up in the heart of London; then again, The Savoy isn’t your everyday hotel. With 195 guest rooms and 73 suites to choose from – all decorated in either Edwardian or Art Deco style – you can enjoy breath-taking views of the River Thames, while making the most of all the comfort and elegance each space has to offer.

Guest accommodation includes the Superior Queen, Deluxe King and Luxury King or Double Double, which look out over the courtyard or the city and retain much of their original character. The Luxury King River View directly overlooks the River Thames, offering unbeatable snapshots of the east and west panorama and over to the vibrant South Bank.

Alternatively, if you’re staying as a family, you won’t want to miss an experience in one

of the Two-Bedroom Family rooms, which are excellent for families of three or four, with two well-appointed bedrooms and a shared bathroom. Quietly overseeing the courtyard, they have lots of natural light that enhances an already spacious area, where kids and grown-ups alike can relax after a fun-filled day out shopping or seeing the sights in London.

Over in the King Rooms, take your pick from the choice of a king-size or double beds, with an additional rollout bed available on request. You can also take advantage of a writing desk, armchair and bespoke Savoy furnishings. After a busy trip out and about, why not unwind in front of a flat-screen TV with a refreshing drink from your own personal bar?

Elsewhere, the spacious, open-plan Junior Suites have distinct sitting and bedroom areas, complete with king-size beds, walk-in closets and dressing areas, or you could choose to stay

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INVESTMENT

THE SAVOY SUITE WELCOME

The luxury of a stay at The Savoy now begins before you even check in…

Guests booking a onebedroom suite or above on a non-promotional or package rate will receive:

õ One-way transfer to/from all London airports and railway stations

õ Courtesy car drop-off within a three-mile radius (subject to availability)

õ Pressing of one garment per person

õ Dedicated 24-hour butler service

õ High-speed Wi-Fi

õ Welcome beverage

õ *Car service for local trips is available between 10am and 8pm daily and is subject to availability.

in a River View Suite, which features stunning, panoramic sights of the River Thames. With the inclusion of a king-size bed, additional living space and a balcony in some cases, no two suites are the same, so you can be sure to relish an utterly unique experience each and every time you stay.

And if you really want to treat yourself, the two-bedroom Royal Suite is spread across the front façade of the fifth floor and has been refurbished to the tune of £2.5million.

Magnificent London vistas from Canary Wharf to the Houses of Parliament can be viewed from eight

windows, with seven of the city’s bridges visible. A service kitchen, marble foyer and wood-panelled office, as well as a master bedroom, sitting room and separate dining room, are complemented by beautiful artwork and sumptuous furnishings.

In addition to an entrance foyer leading to a separate sitting room, large bedroom and en-suite bathroom, the Deluxe Junior Partial River View Suites also house a guest cloakroom. Captivating cityscapes are viewable from both the sitting room and bedroom, meaning you can take in the dazzling London

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JEWELLERY DELUXE KING ART DECO

PERSONALITY SUITE RIVER VIEW MONET

scenery towards St Paul’s Cathedral, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.

Inspiration has been taken from some of the hotel’s most famous occupants for the decoration of the Personality Suites. Noël Coward, Richard Harris and Frank Sinatra formed the basis for the three Personality Partial River View, Art Deco Suites, which capture the individuality of these glamorous icons. The legendary 24-hour Savoy butler service covers secretarial, personal shopping, travel and entertainment arrangements, while

the suites themselves provide the most generous personal space available at the hotel.

Commanding awe-inspiring views of the Thames, the five Personality River View Suites are named after esteemed visitors Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin, Maria Callas, Katharine Hepburn and Claude Monet. A marble entrance foyer features a guest cloakroom, comfy sofa, armchair and writing desk, plus there are freestanding claw foot baths, separate walk-in Savoy showers and a double vanity unit available in the lavish

en-suite bathroom, which also offers Le Labo amenities for you to enjoy.

So, whether you’re staying with us for a week or an evening, you’ll always receive impeccable service, the very best amenities and, most importantly, a supremely comfortable and relaxing sleep at one of the world’s most iconic hotels.

To enquire about room reservations or find out more about our accommodation services, call 888 265 0533 or visit www.fairmont.com/savoylondon/accommodations

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AFTERNOON TEA AT

FOOD & DRINK

THE THAMES FOYER

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FOOD & DRINK

DISTINCTIVE DINING Food and drink is an essential part of any Savoy visit. From afternoon teas to British favourites, our extensive range of dining spaces boasts impeccable taste in stunning surroundings, leaving you well and truly spoiled for choice.

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We find out what’s on the menu in the hotel’s bars and restaurants

ondon is home to some of the world’s most famous places to eat and drink – and many of them can be found right here at The Savoy. Over the years, our culinary reputation has attracted some of the food and drink industry’s leading chefs, including the legendary Auguste Escoffier, Anton Edelmann and celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.

During your stay, you’ll find delectable dishes, stylish décor and a highly professional service that will make your dining experience with us one you’ll never forget. You may be supping in style at the Savoy Grill or Kaspar’s, or enjoying a refreshing cocktail in the American or Beaufort Bar. Alternatively, a traditional afternoon tea in the Thames Foyer might be more your style, where you can also pick up a selection of beautifully packaged teas and accessories from the Savoy Tea store. The British institution, Simpson’s-in-theStrand, provides the very best in UK cuisine, plus Melba at The Savoy, the hotel’s latest addition, is an all-new gourmet takeaway counter. No matter what your tastes or preferences, our talented and experienced chefs create dishes that are as innovative as they are appetising for a variety of palates, so you can be sure to find something that takes your fancy. Read on to discover the gourmet delights that await at The Savoy...

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THAMES FOYER AFTERNOON TEA Experience this enduring Savoy custom under a stunning glass dome that floods the Thames Foyer with wonderful natural light. You can treat yourself to an assortment of renowned teas, which are served with finger sandwiches, homemade scones and seasonal cakes and pastries, created by the hotel’s executive pastry chef, Ludwig Hely. While you eat, a pianist will serenade you from a winter garden gazebo, creating a genuinely magical ambience and atmosphere.

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FOOD & DRINK

HEART OF THE HOTEL Executive pastry chef Ludwig Hely talks about what diners can expect at the Thames Foyer TELL US ABOUT THE BACKGROUND OF THE RESTAURANT Often described as ‘the vibrant heart of the hotel’, the Thames Foyer was built into the centre of the original 1889 hotel building when The Savoy was extended in 1904. In this elegant room, diners first rose to dance to the music being played while they ate, thus inventing the dinnerdance; later, a permanent dance floor was installed, and the world-renowned Savoy bands made their debuts in the Thames Foyer, as tango teas and thés dansants became all the rage.

The tradition of live music continues, as a pianist plays one of the hotel’s traditional pianos during afternoon tea.

The great glass cupola has restored the natural light, which flooded into the Thames Foyer in those early days. Its restoration, completed in 2010, was inspired by an original design, which was found in the hotel’s archive.

WHAT CAN CUSTOMERS EXPECT FROM YOUR NEW TEMPTATION WHEEL MENU? With the Temptation Wheel, we hope to bring a new dynamic to the Thames Foyer in the evenings. While the Thames

Foyer will maintain its reputation as the place to come for afternoon tea in London, as day turns to night, guests will be able to relax with cocktails and desserts (the ideal finale to an evening out in London or post-theatre).

HOW DO YOU BALANCE THE RESTAURANT’S TIMELESS APPEAL WITH FRESH AND CONTEMPORARY MENUS? One important thing for our afternoon tea to remain a classic part of the hotel is to know what the guests’ expectations are. In my opinion, guests expect us to remain quite traditional in a way, and for that reason you’ll always be able to find some British classics like egg salad finger sandwiches or Victoria sponge on our menu.

I also get the chance to have very talented pastry chefs working with me, and together we work all year long on new recipes and new designs. That way, whenever our new afternoon tea menu comes out (autumn-winter or springsummer), each pastry has been thought about carefully and made several times until I’m really satisfied with the result.

The flavours need to be pronounced, but work well all together, and the visuals

need to be elegant and in harmony with the flavours they feature.

IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE THAMES FOYER COMPLEMENT THE SAVOY’S OVERALL FOOD AND DRINK OFFERING? The Thames Foyer creates a sense of occasion and tradition, especially with its renowned afternoon tea offering, and is therefore the perfect accompaniment to the varied dining options at The Savoy.

Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill has brought an informal yet luxury dining experience to both The Savoy and to London, and the Savoy Grill suits those seeking a quintessentially British dining experience.

The American Bar enjoys a reputation as one of the best hotel bars in the world, and the Beaufort Bar is a theatrical space to enjoy Champagne, cocktails and cabaret. With regards to its individuality, the Thames Foyer holds a position as the heart of the hotel. Whether guests come to enjoy breakfast or coffee, afternoon tea or evening cocktails and desserts, they’ll be surrounded by the excitement and vibrancy of all that goes on within the famous four walls of The Savoy.

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FOOD & DRINK

AMERICAN BAR

MELBA AT THE SAVOY

BEAUFORT BAR

KASPAR’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL

Building on the rich history of restaurants at The Savoy, Kaspar’s demonstrates informal yet luxury all-day dining set in an elegant 1920s style. Choose from an array of smoked fish, sushi, sashimi, oysters, caviar and fresh seafood – delicious slivers of smoked salmon, cured sea bass or fresh rock oysters, followed by Dover

sole, lobster or sea bream – then conclude with clever twists on classic desserts or the finest artisan cheeses.

and storytelling, as it takes guests on a journey around the six London boroughs that surround The Savoy.

AMERICAN BAR

BEAUFORT BAR

The world-renowned American Bar has always captured the essence of London with its exquisite drinks and rich cocktail history. This year, the bar has launched a new cocktail menu that combines theatre

For a more theatrical setting, don’t miss the Beaufort Bar, which won Best International Hotel Bar at Tales of the Cocktail 2015. Standing on the former cabaret stage, it serves Character Cocktails in era-specific vintage

glassware, as well as The Impressionist, one of its most popular drinks. You can make a night of it with live cabaret and burlesque evenings, and will love the menu, which comes as a beautifully illustrated pop-up book.

SIMPSON’S-IN-THE-STRAND

The best of British cuisine awaits at this fine dining establishment. Master cook

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FOOD & DRINK

SIMPSONS-INTHE-STRAND

KASPAR'S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL

Gerry Rae uses premium seasonal ingredients in an eclectic selection of dishes, like potted shrimps, roast saddle of lamb and steak and kidney pie.

To add further restaurant theatre to your meal, roasts are carved at guests’ tables from an antique, silver-domed trolley, while classic cocktails are readily available in Knight’s Bar,

an Art Deco cocktail lounge on the first floor.

SAVOY GRILL

Frequented by the likes of Sir Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra and the Queen Mother, the Savoy Grill is one of the most wellknown restaurants in London.

The interior recaptures the magic of the place’s heyday, with the original 1920s Art

Deco features fully restored.

In the kitchen, head chef Kim Woodward oversees a menu filled with classically inspired dishes, and a private dining room can also accommodate up to 40 guests.

MELBA AT THE SAVOY

The most recent eatery to open up at The Savoy boasts a number of sweet

and savoury pastries, British sandwiches and hot and cold beverages to take away.

The gourmet counter is located directly on the Strand at the corner of Savoy Court and, with its striking black and white marble flooring, hand-carved woodwork interiors and grey Italian marble countertops, makes an elegant addition.

To find out more about our dining spaces and book a table, call 020 7420 2111, email savoy@fairmont.com or visit www.fairmont.com/savoy-london/dining

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MEET THE TEAM

KASPAR'S JAMES AMOS SEAFOOD PLATTER

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MEET THE TEAM

THE

GASTRONOMIC UNIVERSE IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING German-born Holger Jackisch has garnered over a decade’s experience in the Middle East and Russia, since his first stint at The Savoy as executive sous chef in 1999, before departing to travel the world in 2004.

As he returns as executive chef, we hear how he’s putting a fresh twist on the hotel’s gastronomic legacy Tell us about your earliest memories of food and what made you want to become a chef Cooking has always been a part of me. As a child, my parents owned a restaurant in Germany. I still remember being in the kitchen at the age of 10, helping (and annoying) my mum, making sauerkraut with my bare feet and tasting all the amazing dishes she made – it sparked a passion for the food business that I haven’t been able to shake.

How would you sum up your culinary style?

Words that describe my cooking are fresh, seasonal and modern. My style is the result of a crossing of cultures; it’s best described as contemporary European with an international flair. In terms of a signature dish, I wouldn’t say I have one, but if you ask me what I enjoy cooking the most, I would say simple dishes with fish, seafood and pasta. There’s something great about creating dishes with even the most humble ingredient to delight the palate.

You originally worked at The Savoy as executive sous chef in 1999 –

what was it like to come back?

It has been thrilling coming back to The Savoy after more than 10 years to see so many old faces; it truly exemplifies how dedicated the hotel is to its employees. The property has also had a revamp since I first worked here, so I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to work in a brand new, modernised kitchen.

Has the hotel’s food and drink offering changed since you left?

The gastronomic universe is constantly evolving, and in London it’s going from strength to strength and rivals every food capital in the world.

The menus have been garnished by influences of many great executive chefs, so few recipes remain from my days here. My mentor and The Savoy’s maître chef de cuisine for 21 years, Anton Edelmann, left a special mark on the hotel’s food heritage, and I have recently introduced his lobster bisque dish back onto the menu.

Did he have a big impact on your career?

Anton had a huge influence, not only on me, but probably on a whole generation of chefs.

It’s an honour to be following in his footsteps here at The Savoy.

Working with him was great and I still, to a certain extent, use many of his recipes and techniques. His legacy will stay with me always.

What else inspires your work?

The biggest influence was the possibility to work in different countries with inspirational chefs from all over the world. The internet is another source of inspiration too; not only can you look at pictures, recipes and other kitchen-related material, but you can also exchange opinions and questions through food blogs and be part of discussions and forums within the web. I also like to look through cookbooks.

In what ways has working around the world shaped your approach to cooking?

Travelling the globe completely changes your perspective. I thought I knew a lot before I moved abroad, but suddenly I was being exposed to these bold and exquisite dishes, produce I’d never heard of and experimenting with exciting new techniques – it was eye-opening.

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MEET THE TEAM

Ultimately, living and working in 10 countries has been my biggest teacher, by broadening my culinary experiences and completely reinventing how I combine textures, flavours and techniques to transform ingredients.

Is there a common theme that runs through The Savoy’s different restaurants and menus?

As the number of restaurants in London grows, so does the competition – this naturally leads to a very specialised, high-quality and guest-tailored restaurant product.

Every restaurant therefore has to have its own unique identity in order to be truly memorable for a guest. Of course, we also remain committed to our values and philosophy as a Fairmont-managed hotel, as we want every guest to experience an authentic reflection of London’s energy, culture and history. This is not only reflected in the food, but also in the beverages, décor, staff and much more.

Does the capital play an important role in the creation of your dishes?

London has an amazing multicultural food scene, with markets and shops catering for people from every corner of the world. The opportunities to find diverse, new

ingredients to create dishes with influences from around the globe are therefore abundant. Combining these flavours and presenting them in the hotel’s trademark styles creates exciting results and a unique dining experience, while allowing me to experiment in new ways.

Do you value the use of farmers’ markets and seasonal, local produce in your food?

When it comes to taste, nothing can beat fresh ingredients. They’re absolutely integral to creating mouth watering dishes; whether it’s seafood direct from Newlyn, tomatoes straight off the vine, or eggs from a local farmer, they all burst with flavour.

Seasonal, local produce has a much more intense taste because it hasn’t been artificially ripened with gas or shipped thousands of miles in containers. I therefore feel very passionate about supporting small-scale, organic farmers and am constantly hunting for new, exciting products.

What, in your opinion, is the key to great cooking and succeeding in the food and drink industry?

The key is passion and a love of food. If you’re passionate, dedicate yourself fully and are absolutely relentless in your pursuit of becoming

a professional chef, you’ll succeed.

Try to travel as far and wide as you can; these experiences will open your eyes to different cultures and cooking styles that can’t be taught in a classroom – I can’t emphasise the importance of this enough!

Lastly, work at restaurants that have incredibly high standards and with chefs you’d like to emulate one day, even if that means working for free in the beginning.

And the most rewarding part of your job?

It’s a blend of different things. First of all, it’s working with an incredibly passionate and hardworking team – creating recipes with them and watching them produce inspiring dishes is fantastic. Being able to pass on my knowledge to them and give them opportunities to help them with their next career step in their own journey is very rewarding.

I also like the instant gratification you get when a customer absolutely loves your dish; it gives you such a rush as a chef. For example, when we hold wedding receptions and the bride and groom thank the kitchen personally, you know you’ve made their day that little bit more special. When it comes down to it, I love cooking and making people happy – The Savoy allows me to do both. Not many people have the luxury of doing what they love, so I’m very fortunate.

Finally, where would you like to take the hotel’s food offering in the future?

My team and I embrace the British food market and seasonal changes, which gives us a lot of inspiration and room to experiment, so the menu is constantly changing every few weeks with new, fresh flavours.

Our menus will always find a fair balance of what we as chefs want to express and what the guests will relish. Diners can therefore expect a new, modern, fresh twist on the classics, as we build on the foundation of long traditions at The Savoy.

Read on to find out how you can make one of Holger’s delectable dishes at home…

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RECIPE

KASPAR’S LOBSTER ‘BLT’ Serves 4 Preparation time: 90 minutes

TOMATO JAM ■ 80g shallots, finely diced ■ 20g ginger, minced ■ 5g sea salt ■ 500g fresh Roma or plum tomatoes, sliced ■ 50g sugar ■ 15ml Chardonnay vinegar In a heavy-bottom sauce pot over a medium heat, sweat your shallots, ginger and salt.

Once the shallots and ginger are aromatic and soft without browning (about five minutes), add your sliced tomatoes and simmer slowly. Add the sugar and vinegar, simmering while stirring frequently. Keep simmering until a jam-like consistency is achieved, being careful not to burn to the bottom of the pot. Cool in the refrigerator.

GARLIC MAYONNAISE ■ 2 bulbs garlic, roasted ■ 350g mayonnaise ■ 90g crème fraîche Take your two bulbs of garlic and lay on aluminium foil.

Drizzle olive oil and wrap into

a ball. Put the wrapped garlic in a preheated 150°C oven for one hour. Once cooled, cut the top off of the garlic bulbs and squeeze out the golden-brown roasted garlic.

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, crème fraîche and roasted garlic. Mix thoroughly and season with salt and pepper. Reserve in a container in the fridge.

are completely cool, remove from the ice water (about five minutes). Crack the claws with a lobster cracker or the back of your knife. Remove the meat from the claws and reserve to the side. Cut the lobsters in half down the middle. Remove all meat. Dice all lobster meat and mix with the garlic mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper.

LOBSTER

CHILLI MAYONNAISE

■ 1 carrot each ■ 1 celery stick each ■ 1 large white onion each ■ 2 fresh bay leaves each ■ 10 black peppercorns ■ 10g sea salt ■ 1 750g whole lobster each

■ 16g red onion, chopped ■ 7g green chilli, chopped ■ ½ lime each ■ 80g mayonnaise ■ 80g Japanese mayonnaise ■ 3g Sambal Olek ■ 3g Sriracchia ■ 35g sweet chilli sauce ■ 1g smoked paprika ■ 1g chilli powder

In a large heavy-bottom pot, bring five litres of cold water to a boil with the carrot, celery, onion, bay leaves, peppercorns and salt. Put the lobsters in the boiling water and simmer for 12 minutes. Remove the lobsters from the pot and submerge immediately in a water and ice bath. After the lobsters

Chop the red onion and green chilli, press the lime juice and put aside. In a big mixing bowl, add all the other ingredients and add the chopped red onion, green chilli and the lime juice. Mix all together.

ASSEMBLING THE SANDWICH ■ 100g baby gem lettuce, tossed and sliced ■ 50g Japanese mayonnaise ■ 50g thick, full-fat Greek yoghurt ■ 8 pieces sourdough bread, sliced 1cm thick ■ 100g beef tomatoes, sliced ■ 120g sweet potato fries, frozen, store-bought Mix the lettuce with the mayonnaise and Greek yoghurt. Season with salt and pepper. Toast the sourdough bread until golden-brown.

Arrange the baby gem on one side of the toasted bread, then place the sliced tomatoes on top. Spread the tomato jam on the top of the tomatoes.

On the other slice of the toasted bread, spread the lobster. Put the two sides together and place toothpicks through both sides of the bread. Cut the sandwich in two in between the toothpicks. Serve with sweet potato fries.

Enjoy with your four friends.

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The finest hotel collection linens. Made in Italy.

Mascioni’s goal is to provide all the customers with the best linen products through a tailor-made service with fashion and design oriented approach.

www.mascioni.it

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SUPPLIERS

“It’s really important for us to push the boundaries further and create relevant and engaging drinking experiences for people to enjoy”

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SAVOY SUPPLIERS

spirits

INDEPENDENT The next time you find yourself in The Savoy’s Beaufort or American Bar, you’ll more than likely come across one of Bacardi Brown-Forman’s top tipples. We introduce you to one of our finest food and beverage suppliers, which has quickly become a popular mainstay for guests

Y

ou might not know the name, but you’ll no doubt be familiar with the brands that make up Bacardi Brown-Forman’s distinguished portfolio.

From world-famous whiskeys like Jack Daniel’s, to popular liqueurs such as Southern Comfort, the iconic drinks that make up the company’s identity represent a unique legacy that dates back almost 150 years.

Founded in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, Brown-Forman is one of the largest Americanowned spirits and wine companies, selling its brands in more than 160 countries and building fine quality beverage alcohol brands.

As well as being home to America’s first bottled bourbon – Old Forester, which remains a bestseller to this day – it’s also overseen

by Geo. Garvin Brown IV, a descendant of



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the founder and part of the fifth generation of the Brown family dynasty, who serves as the presiding chairman of the board.

Today, the still family-controlled business is based in Louisville, Kentucky, employing more than 4,000 people worldwide, around 1,000 of whom are based in Louisville. And as one of the 10 largest global spirits corporations – with more than 25 brands to its name – it was a name that The Savoy was keen to become associated with as a UK supplier, which had joined forces with Bacardi in 2002.

“We began our partnership with The Savoy in October 2010, when they were looking for a spirits partner to collaborate with on their evermore ambitious plan to create truly

extraordinary eating and drinking experiences within their two bars, their restaurant, and across their numerous events,” says Rob Simpson, senior prestige manager at Bacardi Brown-Forman UK, which looks after such household names as Bacardi, Grey Goose, Bombay Sapphire, Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve.

“It’s such an exciting partnership for us, not only because The Savoy is seen as one of the most highly regarded institutions in the world’s hospitality industry, but because the team is so passionate about creating innovative and engaging drinking experiences.”

With such leading bottles under its belt, the prestige of the group’s UK division was synonymous with the hotel’s own grandeur and discerning clientele, leading to a

fruitful partnership that continues to complement The Savoy’s worldfamous reputation as an industry leader, while also preserving and embracing its rich heritage.

“We’re fortunate that our portfolio includes such premium brands, which fit seamlessly with The Savoy’s premium offering in everything they do,” Rob continues. “There’s a long history between The Savoy and our brands, particularly with the American Bar, where Frank Sinatra frequented and had a notorious love for Jack Daniel’s; he drank it neat on the rocks.”

It’s this marriage of innovation and history that has made the partnership such a strong and enduring one.

But while The Savoy remains a key platform from which to showcase

FOREMOST OF FORMAN

Introducing five of Bacardi Brown-Forman UK’s bestselling bottles

BACARDI Established in Santiago de Cuba in 1862 by Don Facundo Bacardi Massó, Bacardi is the world’s favourite and most awarded rum. With a portfolio range than includes white, gold and dark rum, it’s recognised the world over as the premium rum that inspired the cocktails we know and love today, such as the authentic Bacardi Mojito, original Bacardi Daiquirí and the original Bacardi Cuba Libre.

GREY GOOSE Grey Goose is a clear, fresh vodka with an elegant floral aroma, accented by a subtle citrus note. Made from the finest soft winter wheat from France, it’s distilled only once in a continuous-column distillation process, ensuring the quality of the wheat remains, to give Grey Goose its extraordinary flavour.

BOMBAY SAPPHIRE Bombay Sapphire is a unique combination of 10 hand-selected exotic botanicals from around the world, created through the vapour infusion distillation process. It’s characterised by the aromas of ripe citrus fruit, aromatic spices and a touch of juniper, and is an exceptionally smooth spirit.

JACK DANIEL’S Ever since Jasper ‘Jack’ Daniel set up his still in Lynchburg, Tennessee in 1866, every sip of Jack Daniel’s has travelled drop by drop through 10 feet of sugar maple charcoal, before going into the bottle. This is called the ‘charcoal mellow’, and it’s this extra step that makes Jack Daniel’s a Tennessee whiskey and sets it apart for bourbon.

WOODFORD RESERVE Woodford Reserve is crafted, not manufactured. The Woodford Reserve Distillery uses time-honoured whiskey making methods, combined with modern techniques to produce a bourbon of outstanding depth and character. The exceptional flavour profile comes from developing and perfecting a production process that exploits each of the five sources of flavour to produce a multi-award-winning whiskey.

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SAVOY SUPPLIERS

“We’re fortunate that our portfolio includes such premium brands, which fit seamlessly with The Savoy’s premium offering in everything they do” its top-end range, Bacardi BrownForman also continues to pursue its own goals elsewhere. 'B-F 150', a 10-year strategy that began in 2010, aims to ‘build forever’ by 2020 – the company's 150th anniversary – expertly combining five behaviours with its vision and purpose. Indeed, ‘Be Curious’, ‘Be Courageous’, ‘Be Collaborative’, ‘Be Creative’ and ‘Be a Champion’ help to solidify an enduring and growing brand that will continue to thrive for generations to come.

What’s more, its commitment to corporate responsibility means that responsible consumption,

environmental protection and a positive impact on communities are likewise at the forefront of the business ethos. In addition to working towards zero waste, Bacardi Brown-Forman partners with organisations to promote safe drinking, restore wetlands and advance sustainability. All this, while maintaining the traditional values that are in keeping with The Savoy, and pushing boundaries to prioritise luxury drinking experiences.

“We’re really excited about the future of our brands and our partnership with The Savoy,” concludes Rob. “Having sent

the first ever cocktail menu into space, we’ve set the bar high in 2015, but already have plans in motion to eclipse this in the early part of 2016. Continuing on with the core values that both brands stand for – tradition, quality, heritage and elegance – it’s really important for us to push the boundaries further and create relevant and engaging drinking experiences for people to enjoy.”

The Savoy supports responsible drinking.

Visit www.drinkaware.co.uk for the facts about alcohol.

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INVESTMENT

Urban Jürgensen Reference 1140L in yellow gold, £18,700

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INVESTMENT

TIMELY INVESTMENTS Martin Wilson, one of the UK’s premier wristwatch collection consultants, offers a personal shopping service for private clients in London, and works with customers to source fine pieces and develop collections. Here, he tells us why time really can be money

There’s no doubt that the art of fine watchmaking is well and truly back.

This new renaissance is driven by massive international demand for fine timepieces and a level of investment in manufacture not previously seen. The marriage of traditional craftsmanship and high technology is enabling high-end brands to deliver the most complicated and stunning pieces ever made, and every year the race is on to bring new complications with greater levels of refinement and complexity to an increasingly discerning clientele. As with any investment, there’s no perfect collection, but there are trends and patterns that can be observed. When a client’s looking to invest, it’s usually because they’ve slowly developed a passion for the craftsmanship, detail and intrinsic value of high-end watches. Although there are hundreds of manufacturers and individual makers, the collecting of watches is most often associated with what I would call the ‘big five’ brands – Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin and Jaeger le Coutlre. Of these, Rolex is by far the biggest company, with an estimated 1million luxury watches being produced each year.

‘Sports’ Rolex models seem to be the most popular with buyers, and

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INVESTMENT Christiaan van der Klaauw Retro Moon, £22,870

there’s always a demand for models like the Submariner, the GMT and the Explorer. The vintage and collectors’ market has exactly the same features of any other commodity investment, which means people look for rare pieces that were made in limited numbers.

The top prices are reserved for models like the 5514 Comex Submariner, developed for the legendary French diving firm of the same name, or the Military Submariner, originally issued by the Ministry of Defence to British soldiers. These stainless steel pieces will often sell for over £40,000.

There’s a general understanding in the industry that the very finest watches are made by Patek Philippe

in Geneva. Patek can boast an unparalleled history, with fine pieces made for royalty in every generation, from Queen Victoria in Great Britain to Alexander II, the emperor of Russia. In 2014, Patek celebrated its 175th anniversary with a travelling exhibition that presented a Patek Philippe 4975/1G, commissioned by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. To commemorate the anniversary, the manufacturer created a small number of limited-edition, exclusive timepieces. These highly refined and technically accomplished examples of high horology exemplify the excellence for which the brand is renowned and represent an outstanding investment.

An example of the commemorative pieces included:

Grandmaster Chime

The masterpiece of the collection, with only six pieces made; 20 complications, including a minute repeater, grand and petit sonnerie and perpetual calendar.

Chiming Jump Hour

A limited edition of 175 finest decorated platinum-cased watches, with jumping hours, minutes and seconds, as well as a chime on passing the hour.

World Time Moon

A self-winding watch capable of displaying the time simultaneously in all 24 time zones.

Multi-scale Chronograph

The sublimely beautiful chronograph, with three different scales presented for measuring speed, distance and pulse.

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TOP TIPS

TOP TIPS

FOCUS ON THE ‘BIG FIVE’ BRANDS Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin and Jaeger le Coultre.

CONDITION IS EVERYTHING Buyers like original condition and don’t mind some ‘patina’ (surface scratches and wear), but obvious damage and re-polished cases often reduce value.

FOR INVESTING IN A NEW WATCH

FOR INVESTING IN A PRE-OWNED WATCH

LOOK FOR WATCHES WITH COMPLICATIONS (additional functions) The most popular are chronographs, annual calendars, perpetual calendars, split-second chronographs and minute repeaters.

RARITY DRIVES FUTURE VALUE Limited edition or commemorative pieces often make the best investments.

GO FOR A CLASSIC SHAPE AND STYLE Fashions change and what’s on trend now might not be in the future. Stick with classic shaped watches and traditional design.

INVEST IN A WATCH YOU’LL LOVE If you like it, chances are other people will too.

MAKE SURE THE WATCH COMES WITH ITS ORIGINAL BOX AND PAPERS This can include a chronometer certificate, original invoice and user manual.

Bremont gold Wright Flyer, £27,950

PROVENANCE Make sure you buy from a reputable dealer and know who you’re buying from or what you’re looking for. There are a lot of fake watches on the market, or watches with rare dials added to make them look more than they are.

COMPLICATION Multiple complications or ‘grand complications’ are the most sought-after.

DEVELOP YOUR OWN KNOWLEDGE Look at online auction catalogues, note sale prices and see what pieces are sold for by dealers.

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INVESTMENT

BRAND GUIDE

TIMELESS VALUE Julien Coudray Tourbillon Minute Comptetentia, circa £500,000

Martin talks us through some of the market’s best British names and smaller manufacturers ROGER SMITH – ISLE OF MAN Widely regarded as the greatest living watchmaker and possibly the only person who has truly mastered every one of the 32 trades involved in creating a timepiece. www.rwsmithwatches.com BREMONT WATCHES An up-and-coming British-owned company, founded in 2002, specialising in aeronautical pieces. www.bremont.com GARRICK Fine handcrafted English watches with modified Swiss movements and options to have a bespoke piece made for private clients. www.garrick.co.uk CHRISTIAAN VAN DER KLAAUW One of the most respected independent manufacturers, with a focus on astronomical complications. www.klaauw.com URBAN JÜRGENSEN Founded in 1773, this is one of the oldest and rarest manufacturers, with just 200 watches made a year. www.urbanjurgensen.com JULIEN COUDRAY An absolutely outstanding level of craftsmanship, with pieces made in tiny numbers featuring traditional crafts like enamelling and engraving. www.juliencoudray1518.ch

To find out more about how Martin can help with a wide range of horology services – from expert advice on individual purchases, to the development of more significant collections – call 07786 434 039, email concierge@watchconsultant.co.uk or visit www.watchconsultant.co.uk

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THIERRY STERN

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PATEK PHILIPPE

A TRADITION OF INNOVATION With 175 years of expert craftsmanship, family values and timeless design under its belt, Patek Philippe continues to lead the way in producing stunning watches that tell stories as unique as their owners. We chat exclusively to president Thierry Stern about what makes him tick after all this time

A

s any expert horologist will tell you, many of the world’s finest timepieces are handmade in Switzerland. In particular, Geneva, the birthplace of traditional watchmaking, remains the epicentre of timeless luxury chronometers sold all over the world, underpinning an enduring tradition of expert craftsmanship and intricate detail in each complication.

But while there are a great number of Swiss brands that evoke this quality and grandeur, few can boast the same timeless values as Patek Philippe. Founded in 1839 and later rebranded in 1851, Geneva’s oldest independent, family-owned watch manufacturer has been at the forefront of its industry for almost two centuries.

Gent's Gondolo in white gold, £17,900

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PATEK PHILIPPE

Since 1932, the prestigious brand has been in the hands of the Stern family. At the helm is president Thierry Stern, who, having succeeded his father, honorary president Philippe Stern, in 2009, represents the fourth generation of the business. On his watch, the brand has stayed at the leading edge of watchmaking technology and research.

“My task is to keep and use the knowledge from the past,” he says. “You need to keep it alive, but you also have to evolve, which is why we have a ‘tradition of innovation’. The line is narrow, but the DNA of the brand is quite a deep anchor in my body, and my idea of Patek is to continue in this field.”

For Thierry and his team, it’s a case of promoting and upholding the Patek Philippe Seal, an emblem of horological excellence that reflects the group’s 10 core values in every design; in short, it encapsulates the very essence of the company’s undisputed supremacy and unparalleled renown. Which isn’t to say they’re stuck in the past; far from it, as Thierry’s ‘tradition of innovation’ sees progress and previous achievements walk hand in hand.

“The challenge is always there,” he continues. “You have to innovate and show people that we have 175 years of tradition, but that doesn’t mean we’re old or satisfied with what we have. You don’t spend so many years in the watch industry without making mistakes; we’ve made a lot of mistakes, but we’re improving all the time and learning from that. It’s interesting to be part of it and I’m learning a lot. I’ll never be satisfied.”

In celebration of the company’s rich history and heritage, 2015 saw Patek Philippe mark its 175th anniversary with the Watch Art Grand Exhibition. Held at London’s Saatchi Gallery, the event presented 400 exhibits throughout 21 themed rooms, offering almost 43,000 visitors a rare insight into the unique and intricate art of watchmaking as an extension of Geneva’s own Patek Philippe Museum.

“When you do such an exhibition, the main idea is to show people that there are not only watchmakers, but many other people who have to be part of the process to realise such a watch,” explains Thierry. “It shows you the past, the present and some of the future, so it’s important that, when you leave, you know a little bit more, not only about the brand, but also about the watches. The purpose is to give you more confidence in mechanical watches.”

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Of course, it’s not just education that sets Patek apart; its quality is certainly reflected in the price tag too, which invariably fetches thousands, if not millions of pounds.

But aside from the brand’s prestige, the story behind the product remains closest to Thierry’s heart, as he insists there’s a sense of pride in the work that’s most inspiring.

“People like to see the product, but they’re also very curious to see the owner behind it,” he says. “We’re only making one brand and only watches, and by doing that, we still have good credibility. People respect Patek because they know we care about our company.”

Such care and respect has been passed from one generation of the Stern dynasty to the next – a key value reflected in their branding; far more than just a means of telling the time, a Patek is also a family heirloom, worn and preserved though the ages by fathers and sons and mothers and daughters. As for Thierry’s own family, only time will tell if they’re willing to follow in their father’s footsteps and lead the business into the future.

“I hope the new generation will take over, but it’s their own choice,” he says. “I chose my own destiny and they will have to choose theirs too. I didn’t have children just to take over Patek, but my duty is to prepare for the future, and I’m doing it as best as I can. I then have to cross my fingers and see if my children are willing to take over.

But we have time for that – I’m not ready to retire!”

Since time and tide waits for no man, it looks like Thierry has many more years in him yet, with a clear idea of where he wants to take his legacy. Once again, it’s a case of respecting the past and embracing the future, as he’s keen to see his baby continue to grow and adapt in the years ahead, but not at the expense of what has come before.

“I hope Patek Philippe will still stay independent; that’s the key and means I can choose the product and not the money first,” he concludes. “In the next 175 years, I really hope that Patek Philippe will keep focusing on the product first and not on business. You have to keep your own vision about the product, but you also have to adapt it a little bit and not change everything. You have to leave your own DNA sometimes, and once you decide to go your own way, that’s when you’ll be successful.”

Gent's Calatrava in rose gold, £22,750

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PATEK PHILIPPE

TIMELESS VALUES We take a look at the 10 principles that make up the Patek Philippe Seal

INDEPENDENCE

At the heart of the brand’s spirit is total creative freedom and independence. Movements are developed and manufactured in-house, according to the company’s very own quality criteria of excellence.

RARITY

At Patek, over 200 models are in regular production, produced in small series of between 10 and several hundred watches, and fitted with a vast array of in-house movements.

VALUE

In addition to commanding a high price, a Patek Philippe retains and often increases its value over the years, making it an investment for the present and the future.

SERVICE

The company makes it its duty to provide the highest standard of after-sales service, ensuring the watch continues to receive the care and attention it requires for continued reliability.

QUALITY & FINE WORKMANSHIP

From movement and external elements to technical and aesthetic aspects, the development, manufacture and assembly of the finest timepieces in the world remains the company’s goal.

TRADITION

A unique heritage and a combination of experience, ingenuity and passion come together to tell the story of Patek Philippe’s role in safeguarding Geneva’s fine art of traditional watchmaking.

AESTHETICS

The mechanical perfection of any one of these watches is reflected in its beauty. An understated, timeless style ensures they outlive passing fashions without losing their appeal and modernity.

EMOTION

Far from just a watch, a Patek is unique and personal to the owner, often steeped in memories and related to a personal event specific to who’s wearing it.

HERITAGE

Each Patek is designed to last from one generation to the next, continuing a tradition, perpetuating a unique heritage and creating a bridge between the past and the future.

INNOVATION

Patek’s pioneering role is seen in over 80 patents, 20 of which are of major importance to the history of horology.

Technical progress advances functionality, long-term reliability and precision.

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LONDON MOTORS PROPERTY

A FUTURE PIECE OF BRITISH AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY Described as Jaguar’s ‘most charismatic business saloon’, the all-new XF combines contemporary beauty with progressive style to create a lightweight, instinctive and responsive car that’s crafted to perfection.

Matt Kimberley goes for a spin to find out if it really offers ‘innovation from start to stop’

H

ere’s a future piece of British automotive history.

It’s the first time an Ian Callum-designed Jaguar has replaced an Ian Callum-designed Jaguar, and it marks the next step for the car that brought about the most significant brand revolution of modern times.

It’s a few millimetres shorter than before, but the wheelbase of the new aluminium construction is longer. This gives more space for passengers to enjoy the high-spec new cabin and, of course, the signature Jaguar rotating air vents.

Jaguar isn’t going to win any prizes for originality, having largely just transplanted the family face from the XJ and XE straight onto the new car.

It’s sweetly proportioned and carries its bulk very well – a neat trick to pull when you can balance size and grace, and the XF does it better than any of its rivals.

In dear old Britain, we’re going to be biased on the image front. It’s a British car built on these shores and, of course, we want to love it. The thing is, the product makes itself very easy to love, regardless of where you’re from.

An extra 27mm of headroom for rear passengers could be much appreciated by some owners, despite the roof’s peak point resting 3mm lower than the old XF’s. A 540-litre boot with a wider aperture is a winner,

beating each of the German rivals.

The obvious black mark against the XF is the interior materials, at least on our test cars. They’re so nice that even taking a coffee into it is taking a risk, so if your kids always seem to find a way of making liquid messes, think twice or invest in a very good upholstery cleaner.

Buy the 3.0-litre diesel. It’s absolutely immense, pulling like a train at the slightest tickle of the throttle and recording a laughable 1,300rpm at 70mph for epic long-leggedness (in top gear, 2,000rpm doesn’t arrive until 110mph).

Whether you’re on the passive standard suspension or the adaptive, adjustable setup, the XF shows mighty

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LONDON PROPERTY

composure through corners, and rides well on the 20-inch wheels fitted to the test cars. You can’t escape the outright weight, despite the savings versus the outgoing model. It’s too close to call between this and a BMW 535d without a back-to-back drive.

Dynamically, the Jag is excellent.

The eco-friendly 2.0-litre diesel is (much) less impressive in terms of performance, but ticks the right boxes for running costs. A 104g/km version is an eye-opener. It’s just a shame its stop-start is so comparatively coarse.

Depending on whether your heart really desires it or not, the Jag could look like excellent value. If you do want one, go for it and you won’t

regret it. If you’re a die-hard BMW, Mercedes or Audi follower, you’ll need to get inside to see just how far the Jaguar brand has come. Prices, on the face of it, are competitive with the best of the rest, and that 104g/km version will turn some heads among company car users.

Other than the aforementioned business types, families will get along famously with the XF. At almost five metres long, it’s no nimble town car for nipping around with the kids in tow, but it could serve perfectly as the family’s ‘big car’. Jag expects a lot of buyers to switch from other brands, and it’s not hard to see why once you’re in and around it.

FACTS AT A GLANCE JAGUAR XF

FROM £32,300 ENGINE: 2.0-litre turbodiesel producing 161bhp and 280lb/ft TRANSMISSION: Eight-speed automatic driving the rear wheels PERFORMANCE: Top speed 132mph, 0-62mph in 8.7 seconds ECONOMY: 70.6mpg combined EMISSIONS: 104g/km of CO2

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PRIVATE JETS

TOP OF

THE WORLD For business and leisure clients alike, private aviation is not only a means of transport, but an integral lifestyle choice. Alison Chambers and Jane Stanbury talk about the many benefits of chartering your own jet and take a look at some of the hottest models on the market

B

usiness jets are powerful enablers, especially in uncertain times.

HNWIs who utilise them swiftly come to regard them as an essential lifestyle choice. As a valuable business tool, they enhance the precious commodity of time. Flying privately gives back weekends, enables personal itineraries to be fulfilled, reduces waiting time and minimises the frustration caused by delays at the congested hub and spoke airports.

Today, travellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting the most suitable charter aircraft. From entry-level air taxis like the Cessna Citation Mustang, perfect for one to two hours’ flying, to commercial airliners configured for corporate or elite travel, there’s something for everybody.

When it comes to carrying more people and creating that ‘home from home’ feeling inside

its generous cabin, the Airbus ACJ Corporate Jet sets the standard. On the outside, it appears identical to the legacy A320s, commonly configured for 180-plus seats; the interior, however, is vastly different.

British flagship, privately-owned ACJ319 G-NOAH, is available for charter from VVIP charter company Acropolis Aviation, based at Farnborough. It features a stylish, flexible cabin in neutral tones, styled by French designer Alberto Pinto. Its open-plan forward lounge, intimate rear lounge and mid-cabin conference and dining rooms allow up to 19 passengers to work and relax. The private master bedroom features a king-size bed and luxury washroom with unique rectangular shower.

With its 10-hour range, this ACJ is especially popular for charter to the USA, Middle East and Europe. Financial roadshows

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are a regular fixture, but the leisure sector is lucrative too. The aircraft have been chartered for celebratory multi-destination trips, including a stop on Easter Island.

Executive aviation enables pets to travel alongside owners in the cabin. On one occasion, Acropolis arranged AstroTurf in a section of the cabin for a VIP client’s dog. Passengers like to bring special goods back with them too. Bang & Olufsen televisions, and even frozen turkeys from Harrods, have been transported.

“Medical requirements sometimes mean that clients have to travel long-haul with special equipment, which is just not practicable on a commercial flight,” states Jonathan Bousfield, CEO at Acropolis.

He notes celebrities will opt for the privacy and discretion of private airport terminals like Farnborough, London Oxford Airport, or Biggin Hill.

With bases in Switzerland, London, Johannesburg and Dubai, Vertis Aviation arranges private jet travel for its elite, international client base. It offers a prestigious portfolio of large cabin jets, including the desirable Boeing Business Jet, Gulfstream G650 and several ACJ319s.

“For the leisure market, a private jet can bring many valuable benefits,” says Neil Turnbull, COO at Vertis. “Clients are often global leaders who are under considerable pressure to perform. They spend less time with their families; as a consequence, holiday time is precious. Using a private jet helps them maximise this time.

“Scheduled airlines can’t always provide upper-class availability for larger groups, nor can they match individuals’ preferences in terms of food, timing and flight schedules.

An ultra-long range, large cabin jet

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ACROPOLIS G-NOAH

accommodates all these needs and, surprisingly, can often work out more cost-effective.”

In-flight entertainment and connectivity is also accommodated. Acropolis uses Rockwell Collins’ Skybox solution, which securely streams Digital Rights Management Hollywood-protected films to any IOS device on board. DRM-approved films can also be accessed from the Aspinal white leather encased iPad Airs on board. A specially designed router from Satcom Direct enables passengers to log on securely to browse the internet, use WhatsApp, update Facebook or manage emails in flight.

“Connectivity now features as part of a passenger brief,” says Neil. “Access to this equipment enables clients to take their leisure time with their family, and stay in touch with their business too.”

VERTIS ACJ319

ACROPOLIS G-NOAH

Alison and Jane are principals at UK-based aviation consultancy Emerald Media, which specialises in business aviation with an international client base. To find out more, visit www.emeraldmedia.co.uk

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PRIVATE JETS

EYE IN

THE SKY

Richard Koe, managing director of WINGX Advance, takes a look at the latest trends in business aviation The business aviation industry has suffered some bumps and bruises in the seven years since its peak growth, back in 2008. Back then, there were well over 1,000 new jets a year delivered globally.

Since, orders and deliveries have sagged at least 50%. Realistically, the heyday will not return anytime soon, but the gloomy aggregate picture obscures exciting underlying growth; and this growth is beginning to identify big changes in the kinds of customer using business aviation.

Simplistically, the primary users of business aviation come in three categories: the extremely wealthy (the ‘UHNWI’) and multi-national corporations needing jets for unimpeded global point-to-point connections; large companies and wealthy individuals that use business jets to connect their locations and support their lifestyles; and entrepreneurs and wealthy individuals using light jets and props to get conveniently and quickly connected to regional destinations.

Demand from the second category has receded most during the

industry’s recession, stripping away aircraft sales from traditional light and midsize jet manufacturers such as Hawker and Cessna. To an extent, the lightest end of the market benefited from these customers downsizing, but much of the third category, which only jumped into the market at its peak, quickly exited as it slumped. The only customer category to survive intact, or indeed thrive, was the first category, primarily users of large-cabin, long-range jets.

The resilience of the top end of the market reflects the relative incubation of the wealthiest in the aftermath of the recession. After the initial dip in most economies, global stock markets hit historic highs the last few years. Corporate profits have broken all records, interest rates have stayed very low and, until recently, oil prices have enriched energy exporters and credit has poured into emerging markets.

This has been an era that greatly accelerated the number of ultra-rich individuals, both in advanced and developing economies.

The popularity of the ultra-long-range jets is also

apparent in flight activity. It has continued to grow throughout the recession, increasing 10% and more in each month of the last few years. The recent sharp slowdown in heavy jet activity reflects the now adverse conditions in business aviation’s emerging markets: lower oil prices eroding disposable income in Brazil, Nigeria and the Middle East; conflict and sanctions upending the CIS market; and economic wobbles dowsing demand in China. Enough turbulence to slow the ultra-long-range jet activity as well, but what the top end has lost in emerging markets, it’s winning back in the world’s largest market, as the sustained growth in the US economy finally persuades corporate America to get back into business aviation.

The resurgent US market, and increasingly the gradual recovery of European economies, is also lending a comeback to the light end of the market. This recovery also partly reflects the dramatic consolidation necessitated during the recession, with Cessna amalgamating Beechcraft and

Hawker; small and midsized companies shifting to the latest light aircraft, which have great price tags and comparable performance to traditionally larger, more expensive aircraft.

The light end of the market has also benefited from innovations in charter marketing, in particular the belated introduction of e-commerce to business aviation. A number of start-ups have borrowed or imported the tried-and-tested tools of digital marketing and intelligent inventory allocation from other travel sectors, greatly enhancing the efficiency of selling off unused aircraft capacity to a wider market of potential customers. A torrent of investment into these online distributors in the last 18 months suggests that the entry point to business aviation may soon open up to a much larger market of potential users.

Richard Koe is joint managing director of WINGX Advance, a leading provider of market intelligence to the global business aviation industry. Head to www.wingx-advance.com to find out more.

EMBRAER'S PHENOM 300

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TRAVEL

THE WORLD’S your oyster

UK holidaymakers have a very exciting year to look forward to in 2016. To find out more about which destinations are tipped to make an impact on the holiday market for British travellers over the coming months, the travel experts at Kuoni share their hottest getaway forecasts

CRUISES – STAR CLIPPERS Star Clippers will be launching fresh itineraries around Phuket, Sri Lanka and Singapore during 2016, the first time the company will offer Asian routes since 2010; in addition, it plans to launch a new ship in 2016. Star Clippers’ existing fleet of four or five-masted Tall Ships combine the style and majesty of sailing from bygone days with 21st century facilities that leave travellers feeling like they’re on their own private yacht.

T

here are a number of factors that can go into making a country a leading holiday destination. For worldwide travel company Kuoni, whose knowledge and expertise has been helping travellers discover an amazing 80 countries since 1906, 2016 is shaping up to be no exception, and an ideal time for keen jet setters to plan their next big trip.

In their latest report, The Kuoni Travel Forecast 2016, some of the industry’s brightest minds have discovered the rhyme and the reason behind what makes us as a nation tick

when it comes to booking that dream getaway. The likes of Costa Rica, Kenya, Italy and Japan are just some of the most favourable locations for a variety of reasons, all of which are sure to help you ‘find your amazing’.

From major movie launches and new direct flight routes from the UK, to favourable exchange rates and world-leading attractions, Kuoni reveals some of the dynamics that are set to influence our travel habits throughout the next 12 months. Read on to discover 10 key places that will be making the market sizzle in 2016…

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BURMA

TRAVEL

PERU

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TRAVEL ITALY The new Ben Hur film starring Morgan Freeman is being shot in Rome and Matera in the region of Basilicata, southern Italy. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rests in a small canyon and is believed to be one of the first human settlements in Italy. It will be the European City of Culture in 2019, as part of the rebirth of the area, which now sees plenty of bars, restaurants and shops there.

COSTA RICA A new direct scheduled service on British Airways from May 2016 will make it easier to enjoy ‘vida pura’ (‘pure life’), the unofficial motto of Costa Rica.

Kuoni’s touring team is working on a new itinerary to make the most of the volcanos, rainforests and beaches.

British visitors went up by almost 13% in 2015, and this growth looks set to continue, as BA’s route adds to the existing direct flights from Thomson.

PERU

JAPAN

BA will have a direct flight to Lima from May 2016, a show of faith in the improvements to the Jorge Chávez International Airport, which have almost doubled capacity and cut check-in times. Over the past year, Peruvian cuisine has taken off in the UK, with ceviche available in supermarkets and restaurants, and pisco sours becoming a cocktail staple.

The chance to sample this at source adds a gastronomic angle to the country’s appeal.

SOUTH AFRICA England’s Ashes-winning cricketers travelled to South Africa to take on the world’s top-ranked Test side in December for a two-month tour.

Alastair Cook’s side will be defending a 15-year unbeaten Test record, while the home team can boast the world’s fastest bowler in Dale Steyn. An exchange rate of 20 Rand to the pound makes South Africa excellent value for British tourists, who can now fly on a BA Airbus A380 to Johannesburg.

KENYA The relaxation of FCO warnings to Kenya will see the return of the safari and beach holiday in 2016, a combination that has long been hugely popular with British holidaymakers.

The coastal resorts of Kenya are now

back on sale and the area around the Masai Mara, arguably Africa’s most celebrated wildlife habitat, is expected to see a much-needed reversal of the 30% drop in tourist numbers that has been seen in recent years.

INDIA Travelling to India was made easier and cheaper with the extension of its e-visa system to British citizens in August 2015, and the impact will likely be felt in 2016. This removes the need to make an appointment at the visa processing agency, or go through a postal application. The price of the visa has also dropped from £89.44 to £39; good news for more than 800,000 British travellers who visit India each year.

BURMA Burma has been opening up to visitors in recent years, but its standards of service and comfort have not always kept pace. The big focus for 2016 will be the river cruise, as it means that travellers can forget the issues of developing infrastructure and poor availability and simply hop aboard.

There are now luxurious options available, so guests can relax in style and enjoy views of jungles, gorges and plenty of rice paddies.

JAPAN Japan doesn’t attract a huge volume of UK visitors, but Kuoni is tipping it as one to watch, receiving a growing number of requests for tours and independent travel. Those who journey on their own will be able to reach Hakodate in Hokkaido – which Japanese citizens have voted their country’s most attractive tourist destination – with greater speed and ease when the first direct shinkansen or bullet train service from Tokyo opens in March 2016.

VIETNAM Vietnam Airlines became the first carrier to fly a B787-9 Dreamliner non-stop between South East Asia and Europe, when it opened its route from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Heathrow in 2015. In spring 2016, the service will go up from four times a week to daily, which shows an expectation that numbers of UK holidaymakers visiting Vietnam will grow, helped by British visitors being able travel visa-free until June 30 2016.

Findings courtesy of Kuoni. To find out more about the company’s latest travel research, forecasts and predictions, visit www.kuoni.co.uk

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TRAVEL

FAIRMONT ADVENTURES We take a look at some of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts’ most captivating escapes FAIRMONT JAIPUR

FAIRMONT JAIPUR, INDIA While staying at Fairmont Jaipur, join executive chef Manpreet Singh in an exclusive Maharaja master-class – an indulgent gastronomic journey celebrating the culinary styling of the dessert state.

Working alongside a talented team of in-house experts, hone your skills in the time-honoured art of Rajasthani and Indo-Persian cuisine. www.fairmont.com/jaipur

FAIRMONT MOUNT KENYA SAFARI CLUB, KENYA

FAIRMONT MARA SAFARI CLUB, KENYA

Two baby cheetahs are the latest addition to the animal orphanage at the Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy. Guests at this iconic property have the opportunity to visit the orphanage and get involved in conservation efforts by adopting the variety of endangered wildlife within the sanctuary. www.fairmont.com/mount-kenya-safari

FAIRMONT MARA SAFARI CLUB, KENYA

FAIRMONT THE NORFOLK, KENYA

FAIRMONT MOUNT KENYA SAFARI CLUB

Fairmont Mara Safari Club hosts two of the remaining 2,000 northern black rhinos in the world, creating a safe haven in their natural habitat in an effort to secure their future. Hotel visitors can interact one-on-one with these magnificent animals for that once-in-a-lifetime experience! www.fairmont.com/masai-mara-safari

FAIRMONT THE NORFOLK, KENYA Fairmont The Norfolk is celebrating 111 years since opening its doors in 1904. This iconic property has remained a celebrated landmark in the city of Nairobi, boasting luxurious suites and rooms and set around tranquil tropical gardens, a heated outdoor swimming pool and a modern health club. www.fairmont.com/norfolk-hotel-nairobi

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JEWELLERY

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NEW YORK

WELCOME TO THE NEW

PALM COURT

The Savoy’s sister Fairmont hotel, The Plaza, is New York City’s ultimate luxury lifestyle resort. Dynamic chef and new culinary director Geoffrey Zakarian, and word-class architect, designer and artist Thierry Despont, explain how they’ve breathed new life into the iconic Palm Court dining space

What does it mean to you

and I even live on the same

specific vision for how the

both to work on such an

street! So, let’s face it, The Plaza

culinary programme and service

iconic New York landmark?

will outlive us all, and it was a

should run at The Palm Court.

Thierry: It’s a great honour,

great opportunity to be a part

Since we know each other well

pleasure and responsibility to

of its history.

enough, we trusted each other in our areas of expertise – he

bring the famed Palm Court back to life.

You’ve collaborated before on

didn’t complicate the design

Geoffrey: Absolutely.

other projects. How did the

process, and I didn’t add my

When Sant Chatwal, one of

process work here?

ingredients to his cocktails.

the owners, so graciously

Geoffrey: Thierry is a genius

Geoffrey: I’m a stickler

approached me, I saw it as the

and you can always trust his

when it comes to operations,

chance of a lifetime. I’ve been

judgment. I think he came up with

and Thierry knows that. We

coming here for almost 40

one iteration, and that’s all it took!

worked closely together on the

years, I know all the staff here

Thierry: Geoffrey has a very

footprint. For example, I knew

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NEW YORK

THIERRY DESPONT

I wanted to expand the seating area, and we

What was your approach to respecting

were able to do that – hard to believe, since

The Palm Court’s history, while modernising

we added the bar in there as well.

the feel?

Thierry: We did a lot of historical research

Talk about that bar. Whose idea was it?

and gathered a lot of historical photographs.

Geoffrey: We both said it at the same time:

I very much wanted The Palm Court to be

“This place needs a bar!” And what it has

what it was originally: a winter garden with

done to this room is completely animate it in

palm trees and flowers. The result fully

such a way that the sky’s the limit! Make no

respects the landmark status and historical

mistake, The Palm Court has always been

character of The Palm Court.

a beautiful place, and now the room just

Geoffrey: Yes, there was certainly a lot of

swallows you!

research done. For example, we brought

Thierry: Yes, we both agreed there had to

back the latticework from circa 1912 after

be a bar, and I convinced Geoffrey to make it

studying pictures; you can see it along

the centrepiece. I designed it as a monumental

the bottom of the bar, on the screens,

flower planter, inspired by an original

and reflected in the carpeting. We added

arrangement of flowers and palm trees that

in many more palm trees, as Thierry

was part of the original Palm Court design.

mentioned. The stained-glass Tiffany ceiling

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is magnificent, so we added some

Geoffrey, as culinary director at The Plaza,

lighting to showcase it.

The Palm Court is only one part of

Thierry: The relighting of the entire Palm

your duties. Talk about your overall

Court was done with Bill Schwinghammer,

approach to reconceptualising all

a professional lighting artist and engineer.

the culinary functions

Geoffrey: All in all, we were both of the

Geoffrey: You have to think of it as being

mind-set that we wanted to make The

on a 747 at 40,000 feet and asked to redo

Palm Court the quintessential place in New

the interior, land the plane and paint it all

York for afternoon tea, and that’s all in the

at the same time! So, what you really have

details. For example, the glass-top tables

to do is take a section at a time – and here

were created so that when you look at the

we’re starting with first-class.

reflection in the table, you see the dome. It reminds you that you’re in a really special

Still, there’s a lot to co-ordinate…

place. Thierry did an incredible job from the

Geoffrey: Sure, there’s a lot going on at

landmark aspect.

The Plaza, and my feeling is that we want

Thierry: It’s a matter of first respecting the

to make the experience perfect within every

character of the room, which isn’t meant to

location, so that guests will respond by

be a cafeteria, but an elegant place where

saying, “That was great; I want to come

people can relax and enjoy an afternoon

back.” In the end, they’re going to use

tea, as well as a great lunch.

The Plaza as they want to; they might come to The Plaza and never leave the

What was done to enhance the tea

lobby, or never get to it – you just never

experience from a design aspect?

know. You can’t choreograph life; it just

Thierry: We worked very carefully with

doesn’t work that way. So, all I can do is

Geoffrey to design comfortable seating

worry about getting it right, keeping

options, and on precise table heights to

it focused and making a statement.

make sure the guests could best enjoy their

If you do that, the customer will get it.

afternoon tea experience.

Trust me.

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NEW YORK

A day of dining at

THE PLAZA Geoffrey guides us through his perfect day at the hotelʼs range of bars and restaurants

“I would start with breakfast in

Open for breakfast, afternoon

day. Some shops open at 8am for

The Palm Court. After that, I might

tea, cocktails and light fare.

breakfast, while others stay open until

drop down to The Plaza Food Hall

9.30pm for more dinner options.

I would stop at Olma Caviar

TODD ENGLISH FOOD HALL

THE CHAMPAGNE BAR

Boutique and Bar for a glass of

A European-inspired specialty

This elegant and exclusive

Mummʼs and some caviar, since

food hall, curated by the star chef

venue features the world’s finest

happy hour starts at 4pm, and

himself. Expect all his signature

Champagnes, caviars and wines.

then head back to The Palm Court

dishes and more throughout the

Open from breakfast until late-

for my first cocktail at 5pm. And

nine stations that take you on an

night, all-day dining options,

when The Oak Room reopens,

international culinary tour. Open all

including breakfast, lunch

dinner will be served from

day for lunch and dinner. Market

and light fare.

7pm onwards.”

opens at 10am for takeout and

to have some sushi or go to Piada.

specialty gourmet items.

THE PALM COURT

THE ROSE CLUB Once home to the Persian Room,

It has set the scene – quite literally –

THE PLAZA FOOD HALL

The Rose Club keeps the tradition of

in many popular books and films,

Inspired by charming market squares,

unforgettable nights of music and

most notably F. Scott Fitzgerald’s

it has quickly become the go-to

entertainment, paired with an array of

The Great Gatsby, and today has

destination to sample a cross-section

signature cocktails and a select menu.

been reimagined with Geoffrey

of the city’s best: New York favourites

Open for light fare and cocktails from

Zakarian’s culinary stylings.

and relative newcomers. Open all

mid-afternoon until closing.

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GEOFFREY ZAKARIAN

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BAFTA

BILLY BOB THORNTON AND JOHN HURT

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BAFTA

BEST OF

BRITISH

Alongside Hollywood, the UK film industry has made just as much of a splash across the pond in recent decades, thanks in no small part to the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. In an exclusive interview, CEO Amanda Berry tells us how BAFTA is still blazing a trail at home and abroad

F ALL IMAGES COPYRIGHT AND COURTESY OF BAFTA\SARAH DUNN

or film fans around the world, the start of a new year marks the most important period on the movie-going calendar: from the Critics’ Choice and the Independent Spirits, to the Oscars and the Golden Globes, awards season celebrates the very best the silver screen has to offer, recognising Hollywood’s great and good across the filmmaking spectrum.

When it comes to shining a light on talent a little closer to home, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts continues to lead the way.

Founded in 1947 as the British Film Academy, BAFTA’s origins can be credited to such major industry figures of the day as Laurence Olivier, David Lean and Carol Reed, all of whom were among its original founders and directors.

Today, its annual awards ceremony is widely noted as a beacon of home-grown prowess.

that has propelled BAFTA to its renowned global status. Providing a year-round, international programme of learning events, the independent charity offers unique access to some of the world’s most inspiring talent through workshops, master-classes, scholarships, lectures and mentoring schemes.

The woman responsible for this next step in BAFTA’s evolution is chief executive Amanda Berry. Joining the Academy in 1998 as director of development and events, the now 54-yearold was promoted to CEO in 2000. Since then, she has been instrumental in transforming the Academy’s fortunes at a time when it was suffering from a lack of funding and public interest.

But it’s not just the glitz and glamour of the red carpet

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BAFTA

“I was passionate about how high BAFTA could fly,” she says. “It had an incredible brand in 2000, but as an organisation it had been through challenging times and needed to believe in itself again. BAFTA is unique as an organisation: it’s the only one in the world that recognises and celebrates outstanding achievements in film, television and games. The film and television industries have become more global and BAFTA has done the same.”

Indeed, while BAFTA as a whole has expanded its presence to include Asia, another notable triumph during Amanda’s tenure has been moving its annual Film Awards from April to February in 2001. The manoeuvre was undeniably a fruitful one, positioning the ceremony in between the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards and boosting its international profile, both as a reliable predictor for the Oscars, as well as a pre-eminent body outside the Hollywood industry.

“This increased the profile of the event overnight,” explains Amanda. “It’s now the biggest film awards ceremony outside the USA and is broadcast globally. Its profile allows us to shine a very bright spotlight not only on British film, but on the numerous talented Brits working in film across the world within a ceremony that recognises the very best films from around the world.”

And it’s not just the best UK films that have been showcased, as BAFTA has also helped put our television, gaming and children’s media industries on the cultural world map. In addition to hosting their own awards ceremonies, all three deliver lectures from some of their sector’s biggest players, providing younger generations with an inside glimpse of how to break into their chosen fields.

“As a British organisation, BAFTA is in a unique position to champion the very best from our own shores,” Amanda says. “At our awards ceremonies, we celebrate British creativity, and BAFTA’s work across the UK, the US and Asia promotes excellence in film, television and games around the world.

“These three art forms of the moving image are an essential part of our global creative culture – practitioners aspire to win a BAFTA award and be involved in our activity, which in turn inspires the next generation to join our industries.

We also give audiences the tools to recognise excellence, inspiring them to explore new work and appreciate the myriad ways film, television and games enrich our lives.”

Outside the awards circuit, Amanda’s work has been equally valuable. By growing BAFTA’s charitable activities – including supporting new talent, commercial, fundraising and sustainability initiatives – she has developed the organisation to become a distinguished source of education and promotion in moving image art forms, for which over 200 events are programmed each year.

Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed either, as she was named an OBE for services to the film industry in HM the Queen’s 2009 Birthday Honours List. Furthermore, her high-profile name has made its way onto numerous media power lists, and she has even partnered BAFTA with the Inspiring Women in the Arts campaign, advocating the need for women like her to reach the top of their game.

mpion a h c o t n e positio u q i n u A is in a T F A B shores” n ation, s w i o n r a u g r o ritish o est from b y r e “As a B v the

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BRAD PITT

“I hope I’m seen as a positive role model,” she continues. “I’m very aware that I’ve been lucky and found the right career path for me. Looking back – although not all of it was planned – I can see that every job I’ve had has helped me to get to where I am today. At BAFTA, I’m surrounded by lots of brilliant women, but there’s always room for more women at the top, and BAFTA is involved in a number of schemes to support people from all backgrounds to enter our industries.”

Certainly, for all its prestige and international renown, it’s education that remains the beating heart of BAFTA. With the help of Guru, an online content hub for career starters, the organisation gives budding creatives a fighting chance to make their mark and forge a bright future for the UK’s film, television and gaming sectors.

“We’re celebrating BAFTA’s 75th anniversary in 2022, and my hopes are for the organisation to be the very best it can be,” concludes Amanda. “While continuing to promote, support and develop excellence in film, television and games, I would also like BAFTA to be known as the foremost academy in the world for recognising, supporting and developing new talent.”

With that in mind, it remains to be seen where the young visual minds of tomorrow will take our cinematic offerings going forward. But, for now at least, it would appear that the industry is most definitely in good hands.

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KEIRA KNIGHTLEY

Perfect Partners Amanda shares her thoughts on BAFTA’s continuing relationship with The Savoy BAFTA is proud that The Savoy is its official hotel partner for the EE British Academy Film Awards in 2016. For the fifth year running, The Savoy will welcome the stars to the partner style suites the weekend of the Awards to get them ‘red carpet ready’ for the glittering event.

Opening its doors to nominees, presenters and VIPs, the hotel hosts the official style suites on the weekend of the awards, allowing guests the opportunity to be styled ahead of the official nominees’ party, and the awards themselves at the iconic Royal Opera House.

The hotel has also worked with a number of BAFTA partners to host celebratory parties in the lead-up to the event, such as the EE Rising Star party with Idris Elba, Tom Hiddleston, Noomi Rapace, Sam Claflin, Douglas Booth and Andrea Riseborough. Over the years, the BAFTA Fellowship lunch, in partnership with Hackett London, has entertained John Hurt, Dame Helen Mirren, Mike Leigh, Sir Alan Parker and ‘Lancôme Loves’ with Emma Watson.

We will be highlighting our partnership around the Awards by hosting a number of BAFTA-themed experiences for hotel guests, as well as a host of parties with other BAFTA partners to celebrate the Awards in 2016. The Savoy, with its own heritage steeped in entertainment and the film industry, is the perfect home to BAFTA during the weekend of the EE British Academy Film Awards, and beyond.

d that l r o w e h one in t y l n games” o d e n h t a s n ’ t o i : , televisi nisation m l a fi g r n o i s n t que as a ievemen i h n c u a s i g n A i “BAFT outstand s e t a r b and cele s e s i n g reco / 69

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ADVERTORIAL

THE

SELFRIDGES experience

Personal shopping at London’s iconic department store Selfridges’ shopping consultants are a unique team of multitalented, multilingual

ensure expert knowledge is given.”

Clients can relax in the personal shopping

style experts who provide a professional

suite, an intimate retreat designed to give

and unrivalled service. Consultants have

inspiration and comfort. The 489-square

in-depth knowledge of all products available

metre space is cleverly divided into separate

throughout the entire store, enabling them

areas. At the heart is the apartment, featuring

to advise clients on every aspect of their

a bar, library and drawing room for a 'home

shopping experience and offer a truly

away from home' luxury experience.

personalised service.

James Servini, who heads up Client Services

To enhance this truly unique shopping event, Selfridges has taken its customer service to a

at Selfridges, explains the importance of

new level with a multi-million pound investment.

partnering the right consultant for each client.

This space, designed by architects Waldo

“Selfridges’ customers shop from all of our

Works, houses the new tax refund lounge, two

six floors, so it’s essential for our team to

tax-free halls and several exclusive VIP areas.

know the store’s offering inside out," he says.

Experience the ultimate personalised

"As well as this, we have specialist consultants

shopping service at Selfridges, Oxford Street.

who look after different departments to

www.selfridges.com

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FASHION

Spring into

Summer

With plenty of styles to choose from, the coming year is set to be an exciting time for leading designer brands. Our fashion insider, stylist Catherine de

CLAUDINE SINNETT

Crèvecoeur from www.stylepourmoi.com, gives us a round-up of the key trends

W

e’re not out of our winter coats just yet, but before you know it, the next

spring/summer collections will start trickling through our boutiques, inviting us to imagine warmer, sunny days and a wardrobe to match.

The good news about this next season’s fashion is that there’s an ongoing trend towards more trans-seasonal garments, which is just as well, knowing how unreliable our summers can be. Whether it was nature, art or historic icons that inspired the designers, each one of them showcased stunning collections, which formed a textural extravaganza of prints, embellishments and fabrics working together to provide luxurious results.

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FASHION

MANNISH TAILORING

SHOULDER SHOW-OFF

SKIRT SUITS

Shoulders were exposed wistfully

For a relaxed yet polished

While ladylike silhouettes

and artfully everywhere, from Oscar

way to update your cocktail

were popular for spring, more

de la Renta to Erdem, Balmain and

attire, team your skirts with a short

masculine lines also reigned

beyond. Intricate shoulder cut-outs and

jacket, something we saw many

the runway. A perfect way

slashed sleeves, revealing one or both

designers do for spring/summer,

to channel a more androgynous

shoulders, proved to be one of the most

using unexpected silhouettes

look, this trend continues

popular trends for the season.

and combinations.

to grow strong.

ROLAND MOURET

BORA AKSU

ANTONIO BERARDI

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FASHION

CLASHING PRINTS

SLOUCHY TROUSERS

This is a trend that keeps on

While super-slim trousers will never

giving, and one to have fun

THE RETURN OF THE MULLET DRESS

go out of style, weʼll continue to

Seen on the catwalk a few seasons

with. Designers didnʼt hold back

see an influx of slouchy silhouettes

ago, the mullet dress is making

this season, giving collections a

take over this spring. Fluid, soft

a comeback, but this time weʼre

sense of elegant chaos. Clashing

fabrics enveloping the body in

seeing more subtle and chic designs,

prints is an art to be explored

an array of colours, perfect for a

showing a little less leg and bringing

by all fashionistas.

relaxed chic look.

life back into dream dresses.

MARY KATRANTZOU

CHLOÉ

ISSA LONDON

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FASHION

ACCESSORIES

J.W. ANDERSON

ORANGE

RUFFLES

This colour is shaping out to

Cascading tulle, flirty ruffles and frills

be one of springʼs standouts.

in all their fancy were in abundance

With its ability to turn heads,

for the season. A trend thatʼs still

designers applied different

going strong from autumn/winterʼs

shades of it across delicate sheer

nod to the Victorian era, the

textures and lace detailing.

collections speak for themselves.

CHOKERS Chokers were the must-have accessory of choice for designers this season, and they took many forms: from intricate neck scarf/choker hybrids at Dior, to oversized metallic ones at J.W. Anderson. It’s a necklace you can wear every day, but still make a statement while doing so.

DKNY

THE CLUTCH BAG The spring runway showcased innovative ways to hold and carry your things, and one style that took the lead was the clutch bag. Not to be used solely as your evening outfit’s best friend, this clever bag is the ultimate chic accessory for busy women on the move.

PREEN BY THORNTON BREGAZZI

MARY KATRANTZOU

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30 years TAGLIAT ELLE Silver, diamond and yellow gold rings

Cassandra Goad 147 Sloane Street London SW1X 9BZ Tel: 020 7730 2202

cassandragoad.com

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BOODLES

JAMES AMOS

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BOODLES

DANCING ✦

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with diamonds As one of Britain’s leading fine jewellers, Boodles has built a reputation on quality design and exceptional customer relationships. Director James Amos explains why the family-owned business has stayed at the forefront of innovation, after more than two centuries boasting excellence in all facets of expert craftsmanship

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INVESTMENT

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BOODLES

A

long with its fine dining, luxurious suites and first-class service, The Savoy is also home to one of the UK’s leading jewellery specialists, housing one of just five Boodles stores in London. As the preeminent fine jeweller in Britain, Boodles has been renowned for its innovative design and exceptional quality since the brand’s conception over 200 years ago.

Founded in 1798, the business has remained family-owned, with brothers Nicholas and Michael Wainwright now running the show, together with the next generation of the family, Jody Wainwright and director James Amos. With more than two centuries of heritage to its name, the company is steeped in history; certainly, its exquisite jewellery, collections and watches have been a part of the Wainwright lifeblood for six generations.

“The sense of closeness within the company that comes from a family-run business makes it a happy place to work,” says James. “Our customers feel this intimacy when meeting Boodles staff and start to feel a part of it too. The entire brand message to the public is one of Boodles community: exclusive, but sincere and warm to those within it. The experience of shopping at Boodles always has an element of fun.”

Indeed, all four of the company’s directors are heavily involved in every aspect of the business, knowing each member of staff and

many customers personally. But while this level of individual attention might come as a rarity for such a household name, it’s nonetheless what sets Boodles apart from its rivals.

A similar business model can be seen in another distinguished make, namely luxury watch manufacturer Patek Philippe. As one of a select group of authorised UK retailers, Boodles shares a passion for the importance of family with the prestigious Swiss horologists, valuing a rich history of tradition, design and craftsmanship in each and every detail.

“Both Boodles and Patek Philippe focus heavily on luxury and traditional, yet innovative design, and their famously exceptional staff and customer treatment remains an essential part of the two businesses,” James continues. “The Stern family has owned Patek Philippe for nearly 84 years, and therefore, like Boodles, family is at the forefront of their company values.”

Today, Boodles’ newly expanded flagship showroom can be found in London’s Bond Street, with four additional shops also available in the capital, including a boutique in The Savoy and Harrods Fine Jewellery Hall. Of course, the brand’s prestige naturally speaks for itself, as many of its most dazzling pieces have become goto wardrobe additions for some of Britain’s biggest stars and celebrity endorsers.

“Boodles places great emphasis on the acquisition of exquisite gemstones, the finest craftsmanship and the best of British design, creating dazzling pieces of jewellery that are recognised worldwide,” explains James.

“We have a passion for diamonds and precious stones, and are always looking to maintain our status as the British experts within this field”

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BOODLES

“A red carpet favourite, Boodles designs have also been worn by leading actresses such as Dame Helen Mirren, Kate Winslet, Emma Thomson and Emma Watson, to name but a few.”

And it’s not just the movies that have captured the jeweller’s imagination. With its recent Pas de Deux collection, Boodles has teamed up with The Royal Ballet to explore ‘the emotional aspect and physicality of dance and choreography’. Inspired by private performances, backstage costumes and rarely-seen archives, this expressive, yet abstract collection of fine jewellery explores the fascinating duets and dualities that comprise both crafts.

“Pas de Deux is an exquisite new collection that translates the very essence of dance into intricate diamond and platinum designs,” James says. “Boodles’ head of design, Rebecca Hawkins, has been fascinated by ballet from a young age and, during her student years, would often purchase standing tickets to see performances at the Royal Opera House. Through this collection, Rebecca has revisited her passion and explored the physicalities of this exquisite art form.”

The collection is made up of more than 30 individual pieces of fine jewellery, from wearable studs, pendants and rings, to statement collars, cuffs and cocktail rings.

Moving away from the more traditional and stereotypical ballet associations, Rebecca concentrated largely on the purity of dance itself, inspired by the famous ‘partnership

of two’, or ‘Pas de Deux’, dance duet, which is prevalent throughout the collection, beginning with the fundamental partnering of Boodles and The Royal Ballet.

“While designing, Rebecca would often use photographs of dancers in action, tracing shapes from the outlines of their intertwined bodies and translating these into angular platinum settings,” explains James.

“Kite-shaped diamonds are used to further emphasise this geometric form. Through Pas de Deux, we wanted to create a collection of designs that complement each other perfectly, yet are strong enough individually that they can be worn alone.”

Home-grown institutions like The Royal Ballet will no doubt continue to inspire exciting new projects and collections in the future, but Boodles also has its sights set further afield. As it looks to expand into international markets – beginning with sponsoring a high-profile tennis tournament in Abu Dhabi in spring 2016 – the jeweller also hopes to preserve its legacy as a quintessentially British family business for the next generation.

“We of course have a passion for diamonds and precious stones, and are always looking to maintain our status as the British experts within this field,” James concludes. “As demand continues to grow for rare coloured stones, we’re currently working on a new collection, dedicated to exquisite coloured diamonds, which will launch in June 2016. Watch this space…”

“Boodles places great emphasis on the acquisition of exquisite gemstones, the finest craftsmanship and the best of British design”

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Boodles ‘Circus’ pendant with pink sapphires, tsavorites and diamonds in white gold £9,500 Boodles ‘Mosaic’ morganite bracelet in white gold with diamonds POA

Boodles ‘Grosvenor’ wheatsheaf marquise diamond drop earrings in platinum POA

TIMELESS ✦

Boodles ‘Palace’ diamond drop earrings in platinum, from £12,000

✦

✦

✦

✦

✦

style

We take a look at some of Boodles’ most spectacular pieces

✦

Boodles ‘Vintage’ Ashoka diamond drop earrings in platinum, from £9,500

www.boodles.com

Boodles ‘Wisteria’ Ashoka diamond drop earrings in platinum, from £12,000

Boodles ‘Grosvenor’ wheatsheaf marquise diamond drop earrings in platinum £50,000

Boodles full bloom ‘Blossom’ watch with pink Mother of Pearl dial and a diamond set bezel in white gold £29,750

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BRUCE RUSSELL

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WEDDINGS

For me as a wedding planner, these are really exciting times The Savoy is renowned for hosting elegant and glittering events, but there can be no occasion more memorable than your wedding. To give you an idea of what that dream big day could be like, wedding planner Bruce Russell explains why the hotel is a truly unforgettable venue to tie the knot

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WEDDINGS

Tell us about your background as a wedding planner My career has embraced all aspects of hospitality, but weddings I’ve always found to be particularly special.

They’re such personal events and true moments of celebration, embracing an abundance of different details. It

and I was delighted to be able to launch my independent wedding and party planning business, 'By Bruce Russell', at an early stage.

How did you get involved at The Savoy?

As the business grew, I found that a number of my UK and international

was a natural progression, therefore,

clients were keen to use the classically

to evolve my work towards a more

elegant environs of The Savoy as their

concerted focus on wedding planning,

venue. I decided to approach them with

the proposition that I would manage their wedding clients, ensuring they were at the very heart of the planning process, rather than being dictated to by the venue, and overseeing a highly tailored approach that ensures their every need is met.

Why is the hotel so appealing to couples who want to book their dream wedding?

For couples looking to tie the knot in timeless elegance and quintessentially London surroundings, The Savoy is hard to beat. Add to that the world-class service and catering and you have a pretty compelling proposition. Its architecture and reputation are known the world over and, while other ‘fads’ come and go, The Savoy is perennially popular. To me, there can be no more stylish or prestigious a place to embark on this exciting new chapter.

Are you directly involved at every stage of the planning?

Every wedding is different and it really depends on what the client wants. Day to day, I manage the wedding services team, ensuring they’re kept abreast of the latest trends and introducing them to my ‘little white book’ of wedding supplier contacts. I also ensure the client remains at the centre of the planning process and that the hotel maintains its customised approach.

Can it be challenging to bring everything together on the big day?

Planning a successful wedding is a heady mix of imagination, inspiration and ingenuity, but true success hinges on all the different elements coming together as one on the day – rather like the bride and groom! We plan our weddings with military precision, ensuring the workforce is well-versed in the order of the day and with every conceivable detail, contingency or potential hiccup checked, double

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checked and triple checked. Every Savoy wedding is unique, fully taking into account the personality and vision of each couple.

Have you seen trends change over the years?

For me as a wedding planner, these are really exciting times. Gone are the days of the ‘one size fits all’ approach to weddings, and I’m delighted to say they’ve been replaced by a much more creative emphasis: bespoke occasions that are designed around the couple’s own personality. With this comes a new-found focus on enhancing the guest experience.

What about the fashion side of things?

Fashion is another area where we’ve seen a dramatic change, and the UK is rich in design talent – it’s no longer just a case of choosing a ‘white dress’.

There’s an incredible array of choice for today’s brides, who can take their pick as to what makes them feel truly fabulous, be it white or bright, knee-length or long, whimsical and floaty, or intricate with stunning structure.

How is the timeless glamour of The Savoy combined with the luxury of a modern wedding?

When planning a wedding – be it at The Savoy or elsewhere – I always look to channel elements of the couple to create a day, or increasingly days, which really reflect them as a couple.

It’s always fun to plan a wedding at The Savoy, because it provides such a distinctively striking backdrop, which is recognised in all four corners of the globe, yet is sufficiently adaptable to allow for a number of different creative interpretations. The Savoy offers couples the finest hospitality and service with every possible comfort imaginable, without once compromising on its iconic, classic style. The best of all worlds!

Do the suites, settings and backdrops help capture the magic of the big day?

For me, there’s no shortage of creative inspiration at The Savoy. With their distinct designs, every room or suite can provide the ideal canvas on which a couple can design and realise the blueprint for the day of their dreams. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony for just the couple and a handful of witnesses, or a grand collective of 300 or more guests, the hotel can cater for any scale and create unique events, tailored to deliver their dream day.

Where would you like to take Savoy weddings in the future?

With the wedding industry evolving apace, it’s really important that The

Savoy works to ensure that its unique proposition isn’t lost. We already know The Savoy is internationally renowned as a destination, but what we need to ensure is that, moving forward, Savoy weddings become synonymous with the ultimate London destination for couples keen to tie the knot, offering a highly creative, unique experience for their assembled guests.

To enquire about hosting your wedding at The Savoy, call 0207 420 2328, or head to www.fairmont.com/savoy-london and click on the ‘Meetings & Weddings’ tab. You can also find out more about Bruce Russell by visiting www.bybrucerussell.com

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WEDDINGS

THE EPITOME OF

STYLE

Bruce shares his five favourite things about a Savoy wedding

THE SAVOY TRULY IS THE EPITOME OF STYLE – a classic hotel that’s world-renowned.

From the vertiginous Royal Suite overlooking the river (the perfect choice for a wedding night), to the magnificent ballroom and the architectural details that run throughout the property, its design is timeless – the perfect backdrop for iconic photographs.

THE SAVOY IS STEEPED IN FASCINATING HISTORY AND PERFECT FOR SUCH A MOMENTOUS OCCASION None other than Giuseppe Gucci was once a bellboy at The Savoy, and so it was here that he first developed his passion for fine luggage before going on to establish such a legendary luxury brand. The impact of The Savoy should never be underestimated.

CREATIVELY, THERE’S SO MUCH YOU CAN DO WITH THE SAVOY – from an intimate ceremony or reception for 30 of your closest friends in the Royal Suite, to a grand soirée for 250 in the Lancaster Ballroom, each and every wedding that I’ve planned at

The Savoy has been different to the last.

It’s all about making the space your own and curating a day that truly reflects the couple.

FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR A CITY WEDDING, LONDON IS WITHOUT DOUBT THE MOST ICONIC – AND POPULAR – CHOICE Perfectly placed right on the River Thames, a bride and groom can arrive at The Savoy in style after cruising by boat past the city’s most spectacular landmarks, or steal a moment for a romantic river trip during their reception, returning to join their guests for dinner.

NOTHING IS EVER TOO MUCH TROUBLE FOR THE 'BY BRUCE RUSSELL' TEAM We love a challenge and it’s always great fun to work with couples who have a real creative vision for their day.

Be it personalised china for each of their guests, flying in a top international DJ at a moment’s notice, or temporarily re-carpeting the entire ballroom, we’ll search high and low for those final flourishes that make the day so special.

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LONDON PROPERTY

SUPER-PRIME LONDON INSIGHT Vendors who expected a price bounce after the general election are having to come to terms with the fact that super-prime buyers are becoming more price-sensitive. Knight Frank’s head of London residential research, Tom Bill, hears the latest on the capital’s property market from the estate agent’s prime Central London team

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LONDON PROPERTY

A

s the post-general election hype and predictions of an immediate 10% jump in values subside, buyers and sellers in the superprime, £10million-plus price bracket are digesting a change that was overshadowed by the clamour surrounding the ‘mansion tax’.

While the ‘mansion tax’ has fallen from the political agenda, December 2014's increase in stamp duty for properties worth more than £1.1million means the transaction tax on a £10million property has risen to £1.1million from £700,000, a difference equivalent to 4% of the sale price.

Despite this increase, the election of a majority Conservative government caused some sellers to anticipate a short-term spike in prices, which failed to materialise.

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“It’s too early to detect a discernible impact on sentiment at this stage, though there may be a marginal effect further down the line,” says proprietary partner Tim Wright, in relation to the non-dom change.

Meanwhile, a new trend is emerging among super-prime buyers, as they become increasingly driven by the quality of a property and the level of amenities, including a 24-hour concierge service, secure parking and leisure facilities. After exceptionally strong price growth in the so-called ‘golden postcodes’ during the financial crisis, buyers are looking further afield for value in a high-quality, super-prime London pipeline.

DEVELOPMENT: Grosvenor Square, Mayfair DEVELOPER: Rigby & Rigby ASKING PRICE: £11,500,000 CONTACT KNIGHT FRANK ON: 020 3813 5959 With a thoughtfully considered layout and sumptuous interior, Grosvenor Square exudes charm and sophistication, with no less than 17 windows and either full or partial easterly views over Grosvenor Square.

“Nobody assimilated the stamp duty changes while the election was on the agenda,” says proprietary partner Richard Cutt. “Meanwhile, those who expected the market to strengthen after the election are realising that it’s still finely-balanced, sensible pricing being the key.”

While reality has begun to set in with some vendors, it will be telling to see what impact the changes have on overall stamp duty revenues.

Despite the fact that Knight Frank super-prime sales rose by a quarter in the year to June 30 2015, a series of factors, including political uncertainty and the new stamp duty rates, meant volumes across the whole super-prime market shrank by a fifth.

“A number of best-in-class developments are coming through and, crucially, achieving critical mass in areas perhaps not considered super-prime in the past,” says Richard.

As well as casting the net further, super-prime buyers are getting younger. Some 18% of buyers were under 40 in the year to June 30 2015, compared to 10.7% in the preceding 12-month period. Furthermore, the number of super-prime buyers in their 30s more than doubled to 14.8% from 7.1% over the same period.

DEVELOPMENT: 190 Strand DEVELOPER: St Edward PRICES START FROM: £1,465,000 CONTACT KNIGHT FRANK ON: 020 7861 5442 190 Strand is a luxurious new development of bespoke suites, apartments and penthouses in an area of Central London, internationally acknowledged as the capital’s theatre, shopping and cultural heartland, with international embassies, law courts and the River Thames close by.

Furthermore, price growth at the £10million-plus level has underperformed the prime Central London average, growing 4% in the two years to June, versus 10.3% in prime Central London.

Further changes in July’s budget ended the permanent status for non-dom residents and widened the inheritance tax net to property held offshore. It comes on top of a succession of tax changes in recent years, which make it increasingly difficult to argue that high-value residential property is under-taxed.

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LONDON PROPERTY

DEVELOPMENT: Charles Street, Mayfair DEVELOPER: Rigby & Rigby ASKING PRICE: £7,750,000 CONTACT KNIGHT FRANK ON: 020 3813 5959 This stylish development is situated in an ultra-prime location, within metres of the Royal parks and the glamour and sophistication of Mayfair’s world-famous Bond Street, as well as the lion’s share of London’s Michelin-starred restaurants.

“We’re seeing more young buyers who have made their money in tech and IT,” says partner Daniel Daggers. “In addition, we find that decisions are increasingly being entrusted to the younger generations of families, who are often those occupying the property.”

The percentage of UK buyers above £10million continued to grow as the country’s economic recovery gathered pace. UK buyers rose to 37% in the year to June 30 from 34% the previous year.

London also retains its appeal as a safe-haven property market. The number of Middle East buyers rose to 16% from 11%, as demand rises on the back of geo-political instability in certain areas of the region.

Furthermore, recent events in Greece and the Chinese stock market show how economic uncertainty can swiftly boost demand for so-called ‘safe-haven’ assets like government bonds and property. There is anecdotal evidence that Chinese buyers have intensified their interest in established global property markets, including London, as a result of the recent stock market volatility.

“The prime London property market has faced a number of headwinds in 2015, which reduced annual price growth from 5% at the end of 2014, to 1.3% in September,” says global head of research Liam Bailey. “These challenges have been led by the increase in stamp duty at the end of 2014, a factor that will continue to weigh on transactions and price growth into 2016, as the market absorbs the new rates.

“Global economic uncertainty centred on China has also dampened demand to some degree, however the strength of the UK’s economic recovery, employment growth in London and the likelihood of continued low interest rates mean price growth will remain positive next year.”

All content provided courtesy of Knight Frank.

To learn more about the latest findings, visit www.knightfrank.com/wealthreport The prime Central London team is based at Knight Frank’s global headquarters in Baker Street, and purely focuses on the property requirements of ultra-high net worth individuals in the super-prime (£10million-plus) market.

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LONDON

Mayfair I Knightsbridge I Notting Hill I Chelsea I Clerkenwell Battersea I Wandsworth I Tunbridge Wells I Oxshott +44 (0) 333 011 3333

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At Home Design Service available

23/12/2015 16:38

WHAT'S ON

THE GREATEST

SHOWS ON EARTH While you’ll no doubt want to take advantage of your fabulous suite and sample the menus of The Savoy’s many bars and restaurants, there’s also a wealth of experiences available right on your doorstep. Here are some of London’s finest productions, events and experiences to look forward to

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W

ith so much to see and do around London, you’ll be spoiled for choice during your time at The Savoy.

From breath-taking live entertainment to immersive science and nature events, there really is something for everyone to experience and enjoy.

To help you get to grips with where to go and what to see, we’ve put together a guide to 10 upcoming events that will be taking place at some of the city’s leading venues from January to March and beyond.

Whether you’re a certified art aficionado and self-confessed Botticelli buff, or fancy some dramatic opera or more contemporary theatre, there’s plenty to keep you occupied while out and about.

Alternatively, you might be more of a fashionista and want to keep up with the latest trends, or learn more about the world we live in with a fascinating glimpse at Earth and outer space. Whatever your tastes, it’s all here and just waiting to be explored.

Plus, with your very own 24-hour butler service, your day trips and evenings out couldn’t be easier to arrange. Led by head butler Sean Davoren, The Savoy's butlers offer discretion and efficiency to all guests and families staying in suites, and can organise dinner reservations, personal shopping, theatre tickets and last-minute travel arrangements, allowing you to sit back, relax and make the most of your stay.

Read on to find out more about some simply capital events that will have London calling over ROYAL ALBERT HALL

the coming months…

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WHAT'S ON WONDER.LAND IN REPERTOIRE UNTIL SATURDAY APRIL 30 NATIONAL THEATRE (OLIVIER THEATRE) Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, this new musical is a modern retelling that explores the blurred lines between our online and offline lives. Live theatre and digital technology are combined in dazzling new ways by an extraordinary creative team. Boasting stunning sets, costumes, video projection and lighting, plus a score by Blur’s Damon Albarn, this is Alice for the digital generation. www.nationaltheatre.org.uk AMALUNA SATURDAY JANUARY 16 TO SUNDAY MARCH 6 ROYAL ALBERT HALL To mark its 20th year at the world-famous venue, Cirque du Soleil returns with one of its newest touring shows, never before seen in the UK. This celebration of love, and tribute to the work and voices of women, is written and directed by Tony award-winning director Diane Paulus, with female performers making up most of the cast and all eight band members. www.royalalberthall.com

KEW GARDENS

LA TRAVIATA SATURDAY JANUARY 16 TO SATURDAY MARCH 19 ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Fall in love all over again with Richard Eyre’s classic production of Verdi’s most romantic opera, which returns to the Royal Opera House for its 13th revival since premiering in 1994. This much-loved opera explores the life of a courtesan who sacrifices her one chance of true love for her lover’s family, and movingly explores themes of love, scandal, generosity and forgiveness. www.roh.org.uk OTHERWORLDS FRIDAY JANUARY 22 TO SUNDAY MAY 15 NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Travel to the remote edges of our solar system with this photographic journey through space.

Otherworlds is a stunning new exhibition by artist, curator and writer Michael Benson, comprising 73 composite images that explore the beauty of the universe. Using raw data provided by NASA and ESA missions, Benson combines art and science in ways that will most definitely take your breath away. www.nhm.ac.uk VENTURING BEYOND/OUT THERE: OUR POST-WAR PUBLIC ART WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3 TO SUNDAY APRIL 10 SOMERSET HOUSE As part of its year-long Utopia 2016 programme – which celebrates the 500th anniversary of Sir Thomas More’s influential text – Somerset House will be running two events that explore the Utopian nature of art.

Venturing Beyond looks at unsanctioned graffiti as an intrinsically Utopian practice, while Out There tells the story of English public art between 1945 and 1985. www.somersethouse.org.uk

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ROYAL OPERA HOUSE

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ORCHID FESTIVAL 2016: A CARNIVAL OF TROPICAL COLOUR SATURDAY FEBRUARY 6 TO SUNDAY MARCH 6 KEW GARDENS Step inside Kew’s Princess of Wales

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1 Conservatory to admire its transformation into a tropical paradise. The glasshouse will be adorned with orchids and other exotic plants that make up Brazil’s magnificent plant life and fascinating habitats, creating a sensory journey through the country’s striking flora during carnival season. A must-see for green-fingered visitors and budding horticulturists alike. www.kew.org THE ENCOUNTER FRIDAY FEBRUARY 12 TO SUNDAY MARCH 6 BARBICAN THEATRE In The Encounter, actor, writer and director Simon McBurney incorporates objects and sound effects to tell the story of National Geographic photographer Loren McIntyre, who became hopelessly lost in a remote part of the Brazilian rainforest while searching for the Mayoruna people in 1969.

With its ground-breaking sound design and use of binaural technology, this immersive one-man performance is not to be missed. www.barbican.org.uk

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LONDON FASHION WEEK FRIDAY FEBRUARY 19 TO TUESDAY FEBRUARY 23 BREWER STREET CAR PARK Strut your stuff at the biannual London Fashion Week event, which showcases over 250 designers to a global audience of influential media and retailers. London Fashion Weekend, from February 25 to 28 at the Saatchi Gallery, is Britain’s biggest biannual consumer fashion platform, featuring designer shopping, catwalk shows, pop-up shops, hair and beauty and educational panels from leading industry experts. www.londonfashionweek.co.uk BOTTICELLI REIMAGINED SATURDAY MARCH 5 TO SUNDAY JULY 3 VICTORIA AND ALBERT MUSEUM Head to the V&A for a major new exhibition on the artistic legacy of Sandro Botticelli. Some 150 works from around the world have been assembled in the largest Botticelli exhibition seen in Britain since 1930. Over 50 original pieces are included, alongside reinterpretations by artists and designers through mediums such as painting, fashion, film, drawing, photography, tapestry, sculpture and print. www.vam.ac.uk

ROYAL ALBERT HALL

WOW – WOMEN OF THE WORLD TUESDAY MARCH 8 TO SUNDAY MARCH 13 SOUTHBANK CENTRE Celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8, the Southbank Centre’s sixth WOW festival champions the incredible achievements of women and girls. Over 150 events are featured – including talks, debates, music, workshops and performances – led by outstanding thought leaders, trailblazers, activists and innovators. This flagship event tackles the most potent topics for women today, from the deeply serious to the seriously funny. www.southbankcentre.co.uk CREDITS: 1.KENSINGTON LEVERNEL, BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL 2-4.SHAUN JAMES COX, BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL 5.SAM WILSON, BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL 6.CATHERINE ASHMORE 7.ROB MOORE

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SAVOY THEATRE

BLAZING

A TRAIL

For over 100 years, the Savoy Theatre has wowed audiences with show-stopping takes on some of London’s biggest productions. From its origins as the home of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operas, to the magic of modern-day musicals, we find out how this playhouse has made its mark on the West End

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hey say there’s no business like show business. For London’s bustling West End, truer words were surely never spoken, as the city’s most popular district continues to captivate the hearts and minds of tourists and visitors year in and year out.

Along with New York City’s Broadway, the area offers the very best live theatre entertainment in the world, including dazzling musicals and critically acclaimed performances from some of the brightest stars in stage and screen. It’s a quality that certainly extends to the Savoy Theatre, which has been showcasing many of London’s finest productions for more than a century.

Named after the Savoy Palace site on which it’s based, the beautifully fitted venue was designed by C I Phipps, decorated by Collinson & Locke and built by theatrical impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte, who opened its doors on October 10 1881.

The theatre debuted with a transfer of Gilbert and Sullivan’s opera Patience, and became the venue of choice for the duo’s entire ‘Savoy Operas’ canon.

Needless to say, it was the start of an iconic partnership that would become an intrinsic part of the adjacent Savoy hotel, erected eight years later in 1889.

“Built at the instigation of impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte, who wanted his own theatre in order to stage the works of Gilbert and Sullivan, the

Savoy Theatre became famous as the first public building in the world to be lit by incandescent electric lights,” says theatre manager Glenn Cottenden.

“In one way or another, it has been blazing ever since.”

Quite literally in some cases, as the theatre’s eventually listed auditorium was ravaged in a fire in the early hours

modernised the overall look.

Today, the theatre is run by the Ambassador Theatre Group, which took the reins in 2013. Under this new management, it has been home to the Chichester Festival Theatre’s award-winning production of Gypsy in 2015, starring Imelda Staunton and Peter Davison, as well as Guys

of February 12 1990, before being triumphantly and dazzlingly reopened in 1993. Under the guidance of the theatre’s late chairman, Sir Hugh Wontner, as well as the distinguished architect, Sir William Whitfield, the auditorium and public areas were faithfully restored to the 1929 vision of architect Frank Tugwell and designer Basil Ionides, who had previously

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and Dolls (pictured), featuring Olivier Award-winning actors Sophie Thompson and David Haig.

Perhaps even more significantly, Ambassador’s role has allowed the theatre to benefit from a new lease of life, as the group has upheld the venue’s grandeur for visitors to enjoy with each and every performance.

“As part of the Ambassador Theatre Group, the theatre is committed to a rolling restoration programme to ensure audiences are able to appreciate the splendour of this magnificent Grade II-listed building, while exploring ways to improve services,” Glenn continues. “In 2014, the original 1881 foyer that now stands at the back of the building was renovated and converted into a VIP ambassador lounge, offering host services, a wide range of products and a private cloakroom.”

The 1,158-capacity theatre now stages such modern productions as Legally Blonde the Musical, The Sunshine Boys, Soul Sister and Cabaret, while recent decades have also seen works from renowned playwrights like Noël Coward, Tom Stoppard, J.B. Priestley and William Shakespeare.

“Offering world-class customer service and top-class shows, the Savoy Theatre is a venue of choice for the modern-day audience member, attracting visitors from around the world,” concludes Glenn.

Indeed, with such a high calibre of programming, it’s no surprise that the Savoy Theatre remains a go-to entertainment venue for discerning spectators from across the globe; and if the last century is anything to go by, the lights will continue to blaze for generations to come.

For Savoy Theatre ticketing enquiries, visit www.atgtickets.com or call 0844 871 7687. To find out more about Savoy Theatre hires, phone 020 7534 6173 or head to www.atg.co.uk

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SAVOY

ART GALLERIES

CONTEMPORARY ART COLLECTION:

ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE AT THE SAVOY In addition to the wealth of galleries throughout London, The Savoy boasts its own unique collection of commissioned artwork. Sally Vaughan, co-founder and managing director of bespoke art consultancy Go Figurative, explains how she embarked on a creative journey at the hotel with five leading artists

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he Savoy has enjoyed a long history of playing host to artists and commissioning artwork since first opening in 1889, attracting an enviable guest list of luminaries from the world of art. Keen to re-establish its cultural links, The Savoy launched a collection of contemporary artwork, collaborating with Sally Vaughan of Go Figurative, a bespoke art consultancy.

“The Savoy approached us in 2011,” she says. “They were looking to commission a number of artwork by some contemporary artists that were specific and had relevance to the hotel. They wanted very talented, skilful artists, as the hotel is synonymous with fine craftsmanship. It’s designed in a combination of Edwardian and Art Deco, so it was quite a challenging brief to find artists’ work that would be strong and contemporary enough to work well in this environment.”

The collection continues the long association The Savoy has enjoyed with artists such as James McNeill Whistler, who famously painted the hotel scaffolding before it opened, and Claude Monet, who painted the river view from the balcony of his room.

“The first process for us was to really understand more about the heritage of The Savoy,” continues Sally “Each of the artists has created work that’s individual; they’re not related in any way, but their common denominator is that they’re all specifically connected to the hotel.

Each artwork is related to a specific story.”

Read on to find out more about the five contemporary art pieces located throughout The Savoy…

STUART MCALPINE MILLER A Time for Reflection by renowned artist Stuart McAlpine Miller hangs in the Thames Foyer. Hailed as one of the most collectable artists of the moment, McAlpine Miller has garnered international praise for his distinctive style of painting. The Savoy has welcomed an array of stars from stage and screen since opening, and many

DAVID DOWNES Artist-in-residence David Downes was commissioned to create artwork for The Savoy’s Front Hall. Inspired by a drawing in the hotel’s collection, which shows the Thames in 1957, Downes was positioned on the roof during the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant, when a 1,000-strong flotilla sailed past. David’s work has captured the panoramic views from The Savoy’s DAVID DOWNES

DOUGLAS GRAY

of these guests form the inspiration for the eight-piece collection, including Katharine Hepburn, Charlie Chaplin and Marlene Dietrich.

McAlpine Miller fully immersed himself in the rich history of The Savoy, spending time looking through the archives. Elements of the hotel, both past and present, can be seen in the layers of these intricately painted works, such as the original cover of The Savoy Cocktail Book, past guest cards, the reopening date of ‘10.10.10’ and interiors – even one of The Savoy’s long-standing doorman.

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STUART MCALPINE MILLER

GALLERIES

DOUGLAS GRAY As an artist specialising in marine and contemporary cityscapes, Douglas Gray was chosen to create a painting for the River Room, an events room within the hotel with spectacular views of the River Thames and famous London landmarks. Douglas was commissioned for his use of light reflection on water, something that Monet famously captured when painting from a guest room at the hotel. Douglas captured the famous views over the river and the city of London in a painting titled Cloudbreak, River Thames. The painting is on permanent display in The Savoy's River Room.

JONTY HURWITZ The fourth piece in the collection is a sculpture by Jonty Hurwitz. His commission was unveiled at the launch of Kaspar’s Seafood Bar and Grill, and now takes pride of place in the restaurant. This is a contemporary version of Kaspar, a two-foot wooden sculpture of a black cat created in 1927 by British designer Basil Ionides to stave off bad luck. Hurwitz’s distorted work is a scan of the original Kaspar, which has been digitally fabricated. The ‘anamorphic sculpture’ is only revealed when positioned in front of a reflective cylinder mirror. A selection of framed prints, cards and notelets are available for purchase in Savoy Tea, The Savoy’s bijou tea shop.

DAWN COULTER CRUTTENDEN

JONTY HURWITZ

roof in fine detail, including London landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s Cathedral, as well as new additions such as the Shard, the Gherkin and the London Eye. The commission is also partly inspired by Canaletto’s iconic work, The River Thames on Lord Mayor’s Day. Over three metres in length, the stunning work took David nearly three months to complete.

DAWN COULTER CRUTTENDEN The latest work is for Melba at The Savoy, the new high-end patisserie at the very front of the hotel. The approach for artist Dawn Coulter Cruttenden was to create a piece that enabled staff to tell the story of Melba, what a Peach Melba is and why it’s called a Peach Melba in association with the hotel. The Legend of Melba tells the story of how Auguste Escoffier, once head chef at The Savoy, created the Peach Melba for Australian opera singer, Dame Nellie Melba, after whom the dessert and the hotel’s gourmet counter is named. As a triptych, the artwork comprises three pieces that will tell the story of The Savoy’s association with Nellie Melba and the Peach Melba.

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GALLERIES

CAPITAL collections

Art galleries have long been a staple of any London visit for both locals and tourists – and with so many to explore, it’s hardly surprising. That’s why we’ve put together a one-stop guide to 10 of the city’s most inspiring exhibitions, which you certainly won’t want to miss during your Savoy stay

SAATCHI GALLERY

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ALICE ANDERSON

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or art lovers all over the world, London is a cultural capital like no other. Indeed, with a wealth of galleries and exhibition spaces to choose from, appreciators can

gaze upon a variety of works from both newcomers and established artists, including paintings and sculptures, as well as film and photography.

And there’s plenty to look forward to throughout the city over the coming months. To give you a taste of what to expect, we’ve selected some must-see exhibitions from 10 galleries, all of which are as exciting and innovative as they are informative and educational, capturing some of the very best from Britain and beyond.

Whether you’re an aficionado of contemporary abstract paintings, or prefer more traditional, historic movements, there will be something for you to admire and adore, no matter where you go.

Plus, with many exhibitions running for multiple weeks and months at a time, you’ll have more than enough opportunities to take it all in, as and when it suits you.

From household names such as The National Gallery and the Tate Modern, to smaller spaces like the Weiss and Newport Street galleries, there’s no shortage of different styles that will captivate and inspire. With their eclectic mix of themes and expressions, each gallery tells a story that will

challenge and question its visitors, transporting you to a vivid world of colour, texture and light.

Join us as we guide you on an imaginative tour of SAM DRAKE

some of the most compelling galleries and showcases that London has to offer…

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GALLERIES THE MASTER OF TRUTH AND EXPRESSION: FRANS POURBUS THE YOUNGER (1569 – 1622) OPEN NOW UNTIL SUNDAY FEBRUARY 28 WEISS GALLERY Discover the extraordinary talent of Frans Pourbus at The Weiss Gallery. As the largest group of his works outside the Medici collection in the Uffizi and Pitti Palace, this remarkable set of seven portraits ranges from the start of his career in the early 1590s, to the first two decades of the 17th century. www.weissgallery.com ALEXANDER CALDER: PERFORMING SCULPTURE OPEN NOW UNTIL SUNDAY APRIL 3 TATE MODERN The work of American sculptor Alexander Calder is brought vividly to life at the Tate Modern, where Performing Sculpture reveals how motion, performance and theatricality underpinned his practice as ‘the man who made modern art move’. Major works from museums around the world are brought together, while his collaborative projects in the fields of film, theatre, music and dance are also profiled. www.tate.org.uk

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JOHN HOYLAND: POWER STATIONS PAINTINGS 1964 – 1982 OPEN NOW UNTIL SUNDAY APRIL 3 NEWPORT STREET GALLERY Don’t miss a visit to Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery, where its inaugural exhibition presents a selection of large-scale works from one of Britain’s leading abstract painters. Displayed throughout all six of the gallery’s exhibition spaces, Power Stations is the first major survey of the artist to be shown since 2006, spanning a pivotal period in Hoyland’s career. www.newportstreetgallery.com ARTIST & EMPIRE: FACING BRITAIN’S IMPERIAL PAST OPEN NOW UNTIL SUNDAY APRIL 10 TATE BRITAIN Explore Britain’s imperial history at this major exhibition, which is associated with the British Empire from the 16th century to the present day. A vast array of objects will be displayed from collections across the UK, including maps, flags, photographs, sculptures and artefacts, and will examine how the histories of the British Empire have shaped art past and present. www.tate.org.uk CHAMPAGNE LIFE WEDNESDAY JANUARY 13 TO SUNDAY MARCH 6 SAATCHI GALLERY The 30th anniversary of the Saatchi Gallery will be marked by its first all-women exhibition.

Champagne Life celebrates the work of 14 emerging female artists and reflects on what it means to be a woman working in the industry today. Paying tribute to the gallery’s commitment to supporting the work of women, it approaches issues of the glass ceiling in the art world. www.saatchigallery.com

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TATE BRITAIN

CREDITS: 1.EDWARD STEICHEN 2.ANDRE DE DIENES 3.PATRICK DEMARCHELIER 4.HERB RITTS 5.MARIO TESTINO 6.GEORGE STUBBS/MANCHESTER ART GALLERY 7.ELIZABETH BUTLER (LADY BUTLER)/TATE 8.JAMES SANT (1820-1916)/NATIONAL

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GALLERIES 1 ELECTRONIC SUPERHIGHWAY FRIDAY JANUARY 29 TO SUNDAY MAY 15 WHITECHAPEL GALLERY Be sure to check out a landmark exhibition at Whitechapel Gallery, exploring the impact of computer and networked technologies on artists from the mid-1960s to the present day.

Electronic Superhighway includes new and rarely seen multimedia works from over 70 artists – including film, painting, sculpture, photography and drawing – telling the story of an interconnected global culture marked by mass social and political change. www.whitechapelgallery.org PAINTING THE MODERN GARDEN: MONET TO MATISSE SATURDAY JANUARY 30 TO WEDNESDAY APRIL 20 ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS Here’s a major exhibition that examines the role of gardens in the paintings of Claude Monet and his contemporaries. Spanning from the 1860s to the 1920s, the presentation will include Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Avant-Garde artists of the early 20th century, bringing together over 110 works from public institutions and private collections across Europe and the USA. www.royalacademy.org.uk

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VOGUE 100: A CENTURY OF STYLE THURSDAY FEBRUARY 11 TO SUNDAY MAY 22 NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY To celebrate 100 years of cutting-edge fashion, Vogue 100 displays the remarkable range of photography commissioned by British Vogue since it was founded in 1916. The exhibition explores over 280 prints from the Condé Nast archive and international collections, brought together for the first time to tell the story of one of the world’s most influential fashion magazines. www.npg.org.uk DELACROIX AND THE RISE OF MODERN ART WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 17 TO SUNDAY MAY 22 NATIONAL GALLERY Head to the Sainsbury Wing of The National Gallery for this landmark exhibition on pre-eminent French artist Eugène Delacroix, the last painter of the Grand Style and the original modern master. This is the first presentation of Delacroix’s art in Britain for over 50 years, showcasing more than 60 works from 30 major public and private collections worldwide. www.nationalgallery.org.uk BERNARD BUFFET: L’ATELIER THURSDAY FEBRUARY 18 TO FRIDAY MARCH 4 OPERA GALLERY Get to know Bernard Buffet at the Opera Gallery, which will be presenting a solo exhibition of the renowned French painter. Featuring a selection of original paintings spanning 50 years of his illustrious career, the show covers Buffet’s most celebrated subjects of clowns, architecture, landscapes and still life, providing a fascinating insight into one of Europe’s most challenging and humanist post-war artists. www.operagallery.com

ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS

CREDITS: 1.RAFAEL LOZANO-HEMMER 2.OLIVER LARIC 3.ARISTARKH CHERNYSHEV 4.DOUGLAS COUPLAND 5.NAM JUNE PAIK 6.FRIEDER NAKE 7.LYNN HERSHMAN LEESON 8.ADDIE WAGENKNECHT

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