The City Magazine January 2015 by Runwild Media Group

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issue no.

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 5

contents on the cover

LONDON’S BEST SPEAKEASIES Nick Savage opens our eyes to the secret doors and hidden gems of London’s best speakeasies

40 BRAVE NEW WORLD Discover the architectural power players who are completely re-imagining the world we live in

AGE OF AQUARIA We discover a world where shark tanks occupy living rooms and £30,000 is the price tag for one fish

READER’S CORNER Annabel Harrison meets the man behind the world’s most illustrious coffee-table-books to discuss the ultimate luxury: a bespoke, in-home library

A STATE OF UNDRESS More than a place to hang your suits, Amy Welch discovers that the sky is the limit when designing a bespoke dressing room

cOVER STORY:

HACKETT SETS UP SHOP We spruce up our wardrobe for the New Year with signature classics from Hackett’s new City store

p87

88 IN THE BAG Navigate your way through the New Year with The City Magazine’s essential grooming guide

46 REGULARS

lifestyle: the city edit The commodities and consumables raising our interest rates in the New Year

COLLECTION: BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS Olivia Sharpe speaks to the rising female stars changing the face of the luxury jewellery industry

FASHION: FIGHTING FIT Go from City slacker to lean machine with our pick of the best performance enhancing workout wear

LIFESTYLE: TECH TALK Harking back to the golden age of audio, turntables are back and vinyl is having a revival

ART & INTERIORS: WINTER WARMING HOME Old meets new in our edit of how to create an invitingly-cosy interior

MOTORING: NEW KID IN THE CAR PARK Liam Bird gets behind the wheel of Italy’s answer to Germany’s four-door supremos: the Maserati Ghibli Diesel

106

TRAVEL FEATURE: A place called home The City Magazine discovers the private residences that the world’s super wealthy are choosing to call home

144

HOMES & PROPERTY: INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO A new year offers new investment opportunities: We set our sights on three new developments with more than a bit to offer

37-39 Commercial Road London E1 1LF 0207 426 9670 www.ligne-roset-city.co.uk

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Refined interior with dual touch screen system

Oﬀer limited to UK retail customers over the age of 18 only purchasing a new Q50 from participating Infiniti Centres before 31/03/15. Warranty period is for 3 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs sooner. Free servicing oﬀer is for the sooner of 3 years/27,000 miles on 3.5l hybrid versions, and 3 years/46,500 miles on 2.2d and 2.0t versions. Please contact your Infiniti Centre for full terms, conditions and exclusions. 2 This refers to the OTR price for a Q50 SE 2.2d MT. Model shown is Q50 2.2d AT Sport, available at £34,270. * Optional on some versions. All Infiniti Q50 models for UK are right-hand drive.

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issue no.

Editor-in - C h i e f Lesley Ellwood

Managing E d i t o r Emma Johnson (maternity leave)

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 5

Contributors

ac ting E d i t o r Richard Brown

a ssistant E d i t o r tiffany eastland

Motoring E d i t o r Matthew Carter

Coll ec tion E d i t o r Annabel Harrison

Staff W r i te r Melissa Emerson

Editorial i n t e r n amy welch

Se nior Des i g ne r Grace Linn

BRAND C ONSISTE N CY Laddawan Juhong

Ge neral M a n a ge r Fiona Fenwick

Produ ct i o n Alex Powell Hugo Wheatley Oscar Viney Amy Roberts

G E ORG E C HA P M AN

J A C K W AT K INS

J E NNIF E R M ASON

Deputy Editor of DRIVE

Jack is a freelance journalist

Jennifer started out luxury

magazine by H.R . Owen, George

who has been published in The

fashion marketing and has

is equally as happy interviewing

Independent, The Guardian and

since worked as a writer in the

supercar owners as he is racing

The Daily Telegraph. With a

UK and Dubai , specialising

vintage motorcycles. George

general election approaching,

in motoring, travel , lifestyle

introduces us to all Abu Dhabi

Jack meets Baron Peter Hennessy

and local features. Jennifer

has to offer, including sunshine,

to pick his mind on past PMs.

introduces us to the curbed

hospitality and the final grand

body and V8 engine of Jaguar’s

prix of the F1 circuit.

new F-Type.

Pro pert y D i rect o r Samantha Ratcliffe

Exec utiv e D i rec t o r Sophie Roberts

Managing Di r ect o r Eren Ellwood

Green race car cufflinks, £310, Deakin & Francis, deakinandfrancis.co.uk

How Parliament Works 6th edition, £29.99, Routledge, routldge.com

Gommino Moccasins in patent leather, £298, Nubuck Gommino Driving Shoes, £360, Tod’s, tods.com

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J OS E P HIN E O ’ DONOGHU E

LIA M B IRD

LU C I E DODDS

Based in the Cotswolds,

Liam Bird is a freelance

Lucie Dodds is a fashion editor

Josephine has worked as a

motoring writer based in the

and stylist, who has previously

writer and editor for six years,

South Shropshire Marches,

worked at British Vogue and

specialising in lifestyle, travel ,

spending his time in worryingly

associated newspapers. For

Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept

culture and local features. In

expensive cars for a number of

The City Magazine, Lucie

responsibility for unsolicited

this month’s Sparring Partners,

regional lifestyle magazines.

captures urban sportswear for

Josephine looks to two

Liam gets behind the wheel

ultimate gym-to-City style.

champions of artisan coffee.

of Italy ’s answer to Germany ’s

submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. take no

four-door supremos, the

responsibility for omissions or errors.

Maserati Ghibli Diesel .

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscriptions A free online subscription service is available for The City Magazine. Visit the subscriptions page on our website: rwmg.co.uk/subscribe

X7.1 Iperespresso machine, £199, Illy, selfridges.co.uk

Maserati Ghibli Diesel , £48,835, Maserati, maserati.co.uk

Personal Best Vest, £70, Every Second Counts, everysecondcounts.co.uk

issue no.

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 5

f r o m t h e E D I TOR

hree blocks south of Central Park, a newly completed condominium soars skyward, completely transforming the outline of NYC. While the Big Apple has always been defined by its skyscrapers, 432 Park Avenue takes city living to new heights. The tower’s spindly silhouette can be seen from as far away as Long Island, and yet, at 1,396 feet

“Lord Norman

Robert Foster is the single most powerful architect in the world. His l atest buildings

tall (the Shard stands at 1,003 feet), its 96 stories will be broken up into just 104 homes. Its creators call it the building of the 21st century; its critics have branded it the house that inequality built. Make your own judgement on page 106. Architecture is, of course, one of the most revealing and powerful ways by which we judge the advances in society. As our living ideals have changed, so too has the shape,

and city pl ans are redefining life and environmental conditions in the world’s fastest growing economies.”

– p. 40 –

size and scale of the structures in which we spend our time. As work begins on the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station, we present the handful of power players reimagining the world’s greatest urban spaces (p. 40). “There are only two markets, ultra-luxury and subsidized housing,” declared Rafael Viñoly, architect of 432 Park Avenue. After a year in which the number of people classified

as ultra-high net worth individuals grew by six per cent, on page 108 we take a look at where the truly super-wealthy are choosing to live. For those of us still saving for a five-story, water-slide-sporting penthouse (see Monaco’s Tour Odéon), there are a number of ways of making our more humble abodes feel far less ‘subsidized’ (pp. 46-58). Installing a shark tank in your living room would surely be one (p. 46).

Richard brown, acting editor

Other titles within the RWMG portfolio

On the cover (p. 86) Image courtesy of Hackett. hackett.com

Skate in the City From broomball to figure skating try something new this year at Broadgate Ice Rink Open daily until 26 February 2015 Book tickets now at www.broadgate.co.uk/ice

Exchange Square Broadgate Just two minutes from Liverpool Street Station @BROADGATELONDON

FACEBOOK.COM/BROADGATELDN

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| LIFESTYLE |

THE CITY EDIT The commodities and consumables raising our interest rates this month

GREY MATTER

uite like us, our homes can feel like a shell of their former selves post-Christmas. The tree has comes down, the last of the tinsel has been swept away and all that we’re left with are a few new red wine stains on the carpet (probably a cruel reminder of too many hangovers nursed throughout December). January, therefore, seems like an opportune time to pimp up your pad, but where to start? Christian Hasselbrinck, interior design concepter at BoConcept, is encouraging us to do so with dark, dramatic walls – a trend that, according to him, is

making quite a comeback. It might seem odd to opt for a deep grey, for example, but there is method to the madness. “If you want to bring some cosiness into your home, try painting a wall in a dark colour that matches the tone of your furniture,” says Christian. He also suggests incorporating natural materials such as wood and leather for a truly sophisticated aesthetic. We’ve got our sights set on BoConcept’s Fargo leather sofa and the Granville walnut coffee table, both pictured above. boconcept.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

THE CITY EDIT DOWNTOWN MODERN The mid-century lines of this sleek 1940s-style lounge chair is the essence of city loft-style living, and a centrepiece in the Ralph Lauren Downtown Modern vision. Finished with whip-stitched edges and bold hammered-nickel nailheads, the classic silhouette of the Colorado Club Chair would be quite at home in a gentleman’s study, under a lamp in a lounge area, or as a striking statement piece in a hallway or landing. Colorado Club Chair, £7,735, ralphlaurenhome.com

ESSENTIAL TRAVELMATE Shopping is surely one of the most enjoyable activities of travelling overseas, but there’s nothing worse than finding your new possessions won’t fit into your return case. Harry’s of London’s beautiful black canvas and soft Italian leather foldable travel bag tucks neatly away, taking up no space at all until you need it. Smart, stylishly designed and extremely compact, it will become an essential travelmate in an instant. Foldable travel bag, £395, harrysoflondon.com

ON THE ROLL OF THE DICE An Alexandra Llewellyn backgammon board is more than just a game. Intricately designed and flawlessly constructed, her iconic and playfully eccentric backgammon boards are more like works of art. We love the Butterfly edition, whose photographic butterflies on the hand-laquered playing surface pop with vivid colour. The ironwood board is fitted with brass fastenings, antique gold and black weighted aluminium playing pieces, a Laurel Burr doubling die and rosewood dice cups. Alexandra Llewellyn Butterfly backgammon board, £3,400, theclerkenwellcollection.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| LIFESTYLE |

RETRO PRINTS

COFFEE TABLE CARS The ideal reading companion for a car enthusiast’s leisure time, Porsche fans will marvel at the stunning photographs and fascinating history documented in the hardback Porsche 911 Book by René Staud. This incredible success story spans all the way from the 901 and the Carrera RS 2.7, right up to the current generation of the 991.

Try and deny it, but retro polaroid prints always have been, and always will be, cool – just ask the 200 million+ Instagram users. The Impossible Instant-Lab printer allows you to turn a digital image from your iPhone into a perfect instant Polaroidstyle print in the classic square frame. Impossible InstantLab, £139.50, theclerkenwellcollection.com

The Porsche 911 Book, £80, amazon.co.uk

ON YER BIKE The soft, supple, Italian tanned leather of the Hard Graft Bike Frame Folio is so beautiful that it will make you want to order one even if you don’t own a bike. Cleverly designed to fit an iPad Air and other essentials, it slots into place for a stylish commute. Hard Graft Bike Frame Folio, £286, hardgraft.com

ANNIVERSARY MASTERPIECE Patek Philippe has launched the World Time Moon to commemorate its 75th anniversary. Ordinarily, Patek Philippe World Time watches feature a guilloché centre or a polychrome cloisonné enamel motif. The World Time Moon is different; for the first time, the entire centre is now occupied by a large-format moon-phase display. There will be 1,750 pieces produced; 450 of the diamondadorned ladies’ variety and 1,300 in the larger men’s version. World Time Moon 5575, £30,500, patek.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Lilou et Lo誰c L O N D O N

H E AV E N S C E N T. . .

3kg Scented Candle From The Emperor Collection

www.lilouetloic.com

| NEWS |

CITY social

KEEPING the epicure nourished WITH the square mile’s Latest launches and CULINARY CRAZES

Words: Richard Brown

m opens in the city

he former managing director of Gaucho Restaurants, Martin Williams has left the legendary steak chain after almost a decade, in order to strike out on his first solo project, M Restaurants. In that time, Williams, also known as Mr Gaucho, saw the Gaucho Group grow from six restaurants to 15 across London, Manchester, Leeds and Dubai, which reportedly earn the chain net sales of £55million per year. Ready for a new challenge, the first of Williams’ own restaurants has just opened in his familiar stomping ground the City, taking a spot on Threadneedle Street close to the Bank of England. The man is ambitious to say the least – two further M restaurants are already planned to follow the flagship opening in the next 18 months. The restaurant’s 15,000-square-foot venue (perfect for the Tinie Tempah opening night gig) provides a lot of space to play with. It’s mostly open-plan, but houses two distinct restaurants – raw

and grill – alongside an upstairs bar area, varying sizes of private-event spaces and a dimly-lit City boy hideaway complete with a flatscreen TV, silver table-football table, locked whisky display cabinets (where you can store and access your pricey liquor safely) and Bang & Olufsen gadgets. Rich blue and grey banquettes and high ceilings in the main restaurant area add a smart, traditional elegance, while original artwork, polished plaster and a distressed concrete floor bring contemporary creativity. A glass wall in one corner reveals some of the aged meats, and if steak expertise is what you’re after the staff are very knowledgeable indeed – though the advice given centres around the high-end wagyu and kobe (the more expensive cuts on offer). Wagyu beef cattle have been raised using the same methods as Kobe beef cattle, but the Kobe name can only be legally given to those raised in Japan’s Kobe region. Education over, and getting down to the food, the steaks, which are priced

between £18.50 and £150, come from six select countries – the USA, France, South Africa, Argentina, Australia (the wagyu), and Japan (the kobe). To finish off your steak, extravagant toppings include duck egg, foie gras and lobster, or for the adventurous, at the real extreme of the menu is the crocodile fillet starter. With a wine club launching this month, M is keen to share its expertise in this field too. Wine director Zack Charilaou’s expert advice on food and drink pairings and wine origins even tempted this wine rookie to try a glass of red, albeit of the chilled variety. Fine wines are also available to sample by the glass, thanks to shiny state-of-the-art Enoteca machines. By topping up credit on an M wine-tasting card, you can sample high-profile and expensive wines by the glass, such as Opus One and Petrus, at £25 and £45 respectively. 60 Threadneedle St, EC2R 8HP, mrestaurants.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| NEWS |

CITY social

food to your jet Mayfair’s Novikov has launched a new online ordering service for hungry private-jet travellers. Signature Italian and Asian dishes from sashimi to rabbit ragout can be collected or delivered to airfields within London and the SE and, if it proves popular, it might soon be coming to private yachts near you.

best for brunch British brunch is New Street Grill’s speciality. Served every Saturday and Sunday from 11am-4pm, classic dishes from a full English to smoked haddock Florentine are mixed with hangover-worthy meaty offerings from the Josper grill – add an unlimited supply of Prosecco for an extra £10 per person. Until the end of January, there’s also the chance to enjoy luxury street-food duo Le Bun’s residency. Its specials will run alongside the classic brunch menu, offering French-American-inspired buns and signature creations like truffles ‘n’ waffles, all with themed cocktails. 16 New Street, EC2M 4TR, newstreetgrill.co.uk

novikovrestaurant.co.uk

cheering up lunch Islington’s rotisserie restaurant Le Coq is aiming to banish sad sandwiches from the office catering agenda with its new business delivery service for eight people or more. Operating in areas in and around the Square Mile, the packages range from £8.50 to £12.50 per head and offer signature Sutton Hoo-sourced chicken, rotisserie potatoes, sides and desserts. Food arrives buffet-style, or a member of staff can remain on hand for larger occasions. le-coq.co.uk

The Fat Bear

61 Carter Lane, EC4V 5DY, thefatbear.co.uk

Sitting above The Rising Sun pub in the St. Paul’s area of the City is The Fat Bear – another former pop-up success now putting down roots. America’s regional cuisines are represented with the likes of gumbo, chili and fried chicken livers, but are reinterpreted to take advantage of UK produce and suppliers, such as The Rare Breed Meat Co. and Neal’s Yard Dairy – its take on a Juicy Lucy is a spiced beef patty filled with pimento cheese and topped with a crayfish and cheese sauce. It’s worth noting that dishes are rotated frequently, and look out for special events like the all-you-can-eat beef and wine evenings.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

the barbecue experts

After a series of residencies and a high-flying pop-up career at markets around London, barbecue and smoking expert Hotbox has opened its first permanent site in Spitalfields, complete with basement bar serving experimental cocktails. The former street-art gallery retains its dark, industrial feel and the menu pairs global barbecue favourites with Deep South-inspired dishes. The appearance of jalapeno hot link sausage sandwiches and wagyu beef brisket rolls will please loyal followers, served alongside craft beers, fine bourbons and rye whiskies. 46 Commercial Street, E1 6LT, hotboxlondon.com

The Open Hospitality experience starts from ÂŁ345 EX VAT

To book your seat at the 144TH Open, speak to one of our guest services team on +44 (0) 844 381 0565 or email hospitality@theopen.com

| LIFESTYLE |

Bon Viveur

Our man about town, Innerplace’s Nick Savage, gives you the insider lowdown on London’s most hedonistic haunts

London’s Best Speakeasies

owhere in the world is the adage ‘build it and they will come’ more pertinent than in London. In a city this large and multifarious, being in the know is a full-time occupation. With every person looking for the next big thing, sometimes the best means of attracting a crowd is by flying under the radar. Secret doors are a good means of doing this...

Callooh Callay

BARTS (SW3) Barts opened its discreet door to the public five years ago and has been Chelsea’s staple speakeasy ever since. Guests must make their way through the Chelsea Cloisters apartment building and jangle a bell next to a dark black door for admittance. Once in, gird your loins for a prohibition party that would cut Capone to the quick. the Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town (E1) The coolest door accolade really must go to The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, which is entered through the Breakfast Club on Artillery Lane. There’s a carmine-red Smeg refrigerator situated in an inconspicuous corner of the dining room, except rather than containing comestibles it reveals a staircase to the basement bar, a bare-bricked lair replete with taxidermy and other quirky touches.

Barts The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town Barts

Innerplace is London’s personal lifestyle concierge. Membership provides complimentary access to the finest nightclubs, the best restaurants and top private members’ clubs. Innerplace also offers priority bookings, VIP invitations and insider updates on the latest openings. Eight Club

innerplace.co.uk

Callooh Callay (EC2A) This Shoreditch venue is partitioned into three separate bars; however, getting from one to the other might prove difficult to someone who hasn’t visited before. There’s an outsized Narniaesque wardrobe towards the rear of the room with a large mirror in its centre. Apply a bit of force and the mirror swings open into a much larger den. Eight club (EC3) The Eight Club in Bank is truly subterranean. Its entrance is tucked down Change Alley, a narrow, atmospheric passageway just off Cornhill. A nondescript door betrays nothing of what lies beneath. Whilst the members’ club offers a variety of amenities, including a cinema and billiards tables, it also runs a series of speakeasy evenings throughout the week. M (EC2R) M was recently launched by former Gaucho MD Martin Williams and boasts a diverse arsenal of offerings, including two restaurants, a mezzanine bar, three private-dining rooms and a walk-in ageing room with butchery masterclasses. If you look closely enough, however, there’s a concealed door on the upper level that leads to The Den, which can only be described as a highly-polished man cave. Experimental Cocktail Club (W1D) ECC is nestled innocuously amongst the dim sum fray of Gerrard Street. The door may be rather difficult to spot, looking somewhat untenanted with its paint flaking away, however the staff ’s talent with tipples certainly isn’t.

Callooh Callay

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

the Luggage Room (W1K) The Luggage Room brings Mayfair’s affluent heritage to life on Grosvenor Square. Situated in a disused hotel-storage room, the cocktail bar can be found between two topiaries and behind a Victorian door. What you’ll discover inside is Art Deco with a vengeance, harkening back to the halcyon era of the Bentley Boys.

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Sparring Partners SQUARE MILE COFFEE Location: Square Mile Coffee doesn’t have its own coffee house as such, but supplies 60-70 of the best coffee houses in London and across the UK. It also sells direct to coffee lovers online Website: squaremilecoffee.com

What ‘artisan’ is all about “Most of us in the specialty trade apply the phrase to coffees that have been handled with a higher level of care throughout the coffee chain. It doesn’t just apply to careful preparation in the coffee shop, it starts with proper seed selection at farm level, educated agricultural practices, skillful processing, careful shipping, respectful roasting and ends with knowledgeable brewing.” Anette Moldvaer, Director Winter menu highlights “This time of year there are lots of fantastic Kenyan and Central American coffee around, while spring brings the South American coffees.” Going the extra mile “It’s in all of our interests that the end consumers are presented with as optimum a representation of the coffee grower’s hard work as possible.” Awards & accolades Over 25 awards, including the 2013 UK Barista Champion, John Gordon; 2013 UK Brewers Cup Champion, Sang Ho Park; 2014 Best Coffee Roasted in London, Coffee Stops Awards

The City’s

FINEST

BARISTAS 24

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

It’s important to understand that coffee is like any fresh food in that it has a season during the year when it is available and when it is going to taste best. The artisan barista, like a good chef, will be aware of which coffees are in season, and how best to prepare them – something you probably won’t have noticed in your high street coffee chain. “We encourage people to explore and celebrate the uniqueness of the coffees produced on small farms around the world, and have a rotating offering of fresh crop coffees,” enthuses Anette Moldvaer, owner and director of Square Mile Coffee, World Cup

Tasting Champion 2007 and, more recently, author of Coffee Obsession. “The combinations of varietals, soils and microclimates across the coffee growing belt offer a world of complex tastes for everyone to enjoy.” Compare this knowledge and enthusiasm for seasonal coffees to the foil packed pods of the high street coffee shop and it’s clear that artisan coffee is Michelin-star level next to the burnt latte of a chain store. “London caught on to the ‘third wave’ pretty late, but has come a long way in a short amount of time” says Anette. “Seven years ago, things were a bit dire, but I’d say we’re now one of the best coffee cities in

| OPINION |

As the ‘third-wave’ coffee revolution filters through the City and across the south east, we look at two champions of artisan coffee whose obsessions with the humble coffee bean have turned their brands into institutions of the Square Mile

PRUFROCK COFFEE Location: 23-25 Leather Lane, EC1N Website: prufrockcoffee.com

What ‘artisan’ is all about “The OED definition is: ‘made in a traditional or non-mechanised way using high-quality ingredients’ – but it is more than that. Baristas are the last link in the long journey of coffee.” Gwilym Davies, Director Winter menu highlights “Seasonality is very important in coffee. Right now we have some lovely Ethopians and Kenyans in the shop, but that changes all the time. The best thing to do if you want to buy good coffee is ask your friendly local barista for advice.” Tom Hopkinson, General Manager Going the extra mile “As well as the cafe, Prufrock is a training centre and we have several classes running every week on coffee tasting, brewing, and barista training – for everyone from classes for complete beginners, to private training for professional baristas,” says Tom Awards & accolades Director Gwilym Davies won the World Barista Championship in 2009. Prufrock Coffee has also won Best Independent Coffee Shop in Europe at the European Coffee Awards in 2012, one of the most prestigious awards in the industry

the world, alongside Oslo, Portland, Melbourne, New York, Copenhagen and San Francisco.” General Manager at the famous Prufrock Coffee House, Tom Hopkinson, disagrees slightly; “London definitely wasn’t late – both Jeremy and Gwilym (Prufrock directors) were part of the specialty movement in the early days back in 2000, and London was their target. “The third wave is global, every major city in the world has at least one good café, but London is still in the major league. Other cities include Prague, Melbourne, Los Angeles, Berlin, Tokyo, Seoul and Dublin.” But on the fundamentals they certainly

do agree (after all, Prufrock does count a number of Square Mile coffees amongst its best sellers). “Filter your water, grind fresh beans with a good burr grinder, and only use traceable coffee; look for farm name, variety and process roast date” says champion barista Gwilym Davies, echoing Anette’s advice. Tom gives a description of the ‘artisan’ atmosphere that Prufrock promotes: “Although we are very focused on our coffee and interested in educating our customers, we also aim to give a good experience, friendly service and a tasty drink.”

THIRD WAVE COFFEE The ‘Third Wave of Coffee’ refers to a movement to produce high-quality coffee as an artisanal product, involving improvements at all stages of production, including plant growing, harvesting and processing. Stronger relationships between coffee growers, traders and roasters are also purposefully forged.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

PARIS / JANUARY 23-27, 2015 / SEPTEMBER 4-8, 2015 PARIS NORD VILLEPINTE

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| LIFESTYLE |

Life IN Fifteen minutes with the Square Mile stalwarts of which every City sybarite should be aware…

fter four years as head of concierge at Tower 42, Terry Burns set up City Concierge in 2002, after enquiries for the supply of his services started to spread from the old NatWest Tower to other buildings and institutions in the City. Thanks to a high-quality network of suppliers of products and services, Terry is able to offer clients everything from VIP access to sold-out concerts and exclusive nightclub events, to luxury sports car hire and the lease of private jets.

Photograph by Paul Burch

Terry Burns

Head of concierge at Tower 42 and founder of City Concierge

What is the key to running a successful concierge? The key is ‘passion’. Passion for helping people and having the right services and contacts at your fingertips to give a first-class service. Which tickets are the hardest to come by? Most tickets are obtainable but often at a premium price. Tupungato / Shutterstock.com

Christoff / Shutterstock.com

What’s the strangest request you’ve ever had? One of my clients, who was expecting her first child, asked me to arrange a three-course meal of icecream only. Needless to say, her wish was my command. Biggest risk you’ve ever taken in business? I invested in a property for the long term and financial gain; which sadly, it went tits up. I lost a lot of money.

Best in the City for Breakfast: The Breakfast Club - Spitalfields Market

The thing you are most scared of is… Confined spaces; so the thought of being in a tunnel on an underground train, which has stopped for more than one or two minutes, terrifies me.

What would you do as Mayor of London? If I was the Mayor, I would revolutionise working hours to lessen the impact of rush-hour commuting. I would encourage work-at-home for employees three out of five days a week. I would also encourage wellbeing interventions at the workplace to relieve the everyday stress of working in the City. Three historic or living figures you’d like to have dinner with? Bill Clinton, Jackie Onassis and the Queen. The person you’d most like to punch in the face? My ideal person would be an ex-friend whom I had purchased a property with. Biggest ever indulgence… My BMW! In 2015 you are going to… Travel, restructure some of the exclusive events I have at my fingertips, contact a lot of very high-end individuals and keep Tower 42 as The Best Place to work in the City. city-concierge.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| LIFESTYLE |

Life AFTER The Square Mile alumni making waves away from the fickle waters of finance

eter Grainger and Brent Hadfield left the City behind to take on corporate giant Nestlé, by producing their own brand of Nespresso-compatible coffee capsules in London. The pair’s initiative to corner the UK market has seen CaféPod secure listings with Waitrose, Ocado and now a £1.5million deal in Tesco, with turnover forecast to increase in excess of 400 per cent year-on-year. What inspired the move from the world of capital to coffee? Opportunity. And I liked the idea of people understanding what I do when they ask. When you work in the City, this can be a challenge. What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced? Realising how much you don’t know. Every day’s a school day for us. Trying to start a business in a brand-new market segment means that you don’t really have much of a precedent set and you’re figuring out everything for the first time.

Peter Grainger Director and co-founder of CaféPod

Age: 36 Previous Employer: GLG Partners

The key to running your own business successfully is… Getting a great team around you. No one does it all on their own and if you can get a fantastic bunch of people to buy into what you’re trying to do, it really can make all the difference. Are you confident that you can convert Britain’s tea drinkers? Starbucks, Costa and Caffè Nero are doing a great job of that already. Where we come in is when people are looking for the same high-street coffee experience at home, and suddenly instant coffee isn’t doing the job any more. What are your favourite haunts in the City? My favourite in London is Brixton Market – I’m a big fan. I love my food and there are so many great things to explore and try down there. Best foods to pair with coffee? Got to be a biscuit. Preferably with a chocolate centre or coating. There’s something about warm chocolate melting in your mouth... What do you look for in people you work with? Attitude and outlook. I cannot overemphasise the importance of someone having a collaborative attitude and being action-orientated. There are a lot of people who talk a good game, but in our experience there is 10 times the value in working with people who demonstrate their worth by doing things. Oh, and common sense. There.is.no.substitute. Tell us something we don’t know about you. I’m originally from South Africa. Three historical or living figures you’d like to have a coffee with? Elon Musk, Will Farrell and Dave Grohl from the Foo Fighters. What do you like to indulge in when you’re not working? Getting out and doing some training a few times a week keeps me sane and offsets my weakness for ice cream. Also, I’m still a big fan of exploring London. I love going off and getting lost. What would you do if you lost everything tomorrow? Cry. cafepod.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

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Britain’s

greatest son Fifty years ago this month England lost one of its historic heroes, the inimitable Sir Winston Churchill Words: jack watkins

he Winston Churchill Museum in Whitehall is not short on monitors running archive footage of this most watchable of historical figures. But the screen devoted to replaying coverage of his state funeral seems to exercise a special fascination for many visitors. That bitterly cold day on 30th January 1965 was certainly an occasion to remember. Millions of viewers around the world watched live coverage of the largest British state funeral granted to a commoner in the 20th century, attended not only by domestic political friends and rivals such as Anthony Eden and a frail-looking Clement Atlee, but also the likes of Charles De Gaulle and Dwight Eisenhower, among representatives from more than a hundred nations. The public joined the 400 BBC TV cameras lining London’s streets as Churchill’s funeral cortege made its way from Westminster Hall through central London, up Ludgate Hill to St Paul’s Cathedral from where, after the ceremony, it made its way down to the Thames. At Tower Bridge pier his coffin was lifted onto a boat and taken upstream to Waterloo Station. A train

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

then conveyed his body to Oxfordshire, for burial in the churchyard at Bladon near Churchill’s ancestral home at Blenheim Palace. As the barge sailed along by the old city wharves, dockers lowered the gibs of their cranes in salutation. London has always known how to put on a spectacle, but this seemed to represent the end of an age, the passing of one of the last links with the British Empire. We have not forgotten Churchill. Fifty years on, the memory of him seems very much alive, even among those born after his death. The Churchill Museum is situated in what were originally offices within the Churchill War Rooms, the chain of corridors and basement offices which sheltered his war ministry during the most intense moments of the Second World War. It is one of central London’s most absorbing visitor attractions. Churchill used the site most extensively during the Blitz, from September 1940 to September 1941, and during the time of the V-weapon raids, from June 1944 to March 1945. But, in his almost childlike, daredevil way, the British premier – already 65 by the time of the

| FEATURE |

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE | © IWM

Left The Cabinet War Rooms in 1945 BELOW The Cabinet War Rooms at the Imperial War Museum

Blitz – thrilled himself by climbing onto the roof of the building above his secret underground HQ to watch the bombing raids, before returning to his hideout to work on his speeches. It was down here that he made four of his famous radio broadcasts, and the eerie moan of the air raid siren and an archive recording of a bombing raid, in which a reporter describes seeing fires over the City of London through the hollowed out spires of its burning churches, is quite chilling. This is followed by Churchill’s rousing “Island race” broadcast of September 1940. The tension is palpable, and knowing the speech was delivered in these very chambers, at a time when the situation was so grave and the future so uncertain, raises the hairs on the back of the neck. For Churchill wasn’t a ‘great man,’ or ‘national hero’ back then; for years he’d been regarded as an unstable maverick, crossing the floor of the House of Commons to switch parties on two occasions, endlessly banging on about the “perilous” situation in Europe, and berating more timid contemporaries, whose nerves and confidence were still frayed from the experience of the Great War of 1914-18. It’s easy to sentimentalise Churchill – an eminent contemporary historian recently told me of Churchill’s touching belief that

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

MORE INFORMATION When England Slept: Political Writings 1936-1939, by Winston S Churchill, is published by Bloomsbury. For more details on how to visit the Churchill Museum, visit iwm.org.uk/visits/ churchill-war-rooms

history coursed through the veins of the British people in the way it did though his own – but for many at the time he was simply a dangerous romantic. In the end, it was his status as the only man likely to unify both sides of the Commons after Neville Chamberlain’s resignation in 1940 that led to Churchill’s rebirth as the wartime premier. And after that it was his stirring speechmaking which carried the show. Churchill had always believed in the power of voice, once writing that “of all the talents bestowed upon men, none is so precious as the gift of oratory.” But his prescience also shines though in his history books and in his journalism. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of his death, Bloomsbury are republishing a number of his works in their Bloomsbury Revelations series, including his fourvolume A History of the English-Speaking Peoples, whose mammoth span from the time of Julius Caesar’s Roman invasion of Britain to the First World War has been hailed by The Daily Telegraph for “its narrative power, its fine judgment of war and politics, of soldiers and statesmen, and even more because it reflects a tradition of what Englishmen in the hey-day of their empire thought and felt about their country’s past.” By contrast, While England Slept brings together Churchill’s newspaper writings from the period between 1936 and 1939, providing, in his own words, “a running commentary upon events as they happened or were about to happen, and a narrative of what we have lived through” during that dangerous period. These are a fascinating insight into the climate of public opinion Churchill found himself operating in during his so-called ‘wilderness years’. It’s interesting to approach the articles by putting oneself in the mindset of the average reader of the time. Take the piece on How Germany is Arming, written on 1st May 1936, for instance. “One looks at people going about their daily round, crowding the streets on their business, earning their livelihood, filling the football grounds and cinemas,” writes Churchill. “One reads their newspapers, always full of entertaining headlines whether the happenings are great or small. Do they realize the way things are trending? And how external forces may effect all their work and pleasure, all their happiness and freedom, all their property and whom they love? I can see only one thing. I see it sharper and harsher day by day. Germany is arming more strenuously, more scientifically and upon a larger scale, than any nation has ever armed before.” Doubtless, we nod our heads now at Churchill’s sagacity, but who can honestly say that in 1936, most likely having heard Churchill rehearse such arguments before, we wouldn’t have been tempted to move on swiftly to the share prices or football results, or some trivial scandal on the home front? By the time of the last piece in the book, Churchill was just four months away from being recalled to the Cabinet as First Lord of the Admiralty, a position he’d held in the Asquith ministry between 1911 and 1915. But even if Churchill was feted as a wartime leader, many would never lose their suspicion of him, and he would be voted out of office in 1945, a result which left him stunned and depressed. Remarkably, he staged yet another comeback to win the 1951 election, but his last years as prime minster were undermined by physical weakness when, aged 79, he suffered a massive stroke in 1953. These days his stature is unquestioned. On the 40th anniversary of his death in 2004, a BBC viewers’ poll voted him as our Greatest Briton. A decade on, were that survey conducted again, it seems highly likely it would yield the same result.

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| FEATURE | Image by pcruciatti / Shutterstock.com

CONSULTING THE ORACLE “Just imagine if there had been leaders’ debates in the 1950 General Election between Clement Attlee and Winston Churchill,” ponders political professor Peter Hennessy ahead of this year’s General Election. “Churchill would have taken 10 minutes to answer a question with grand sweeps of thought, and Attlee would simply have said something like: “Quite.” Words: JACK WATKINS

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

f you are seeking an insight into the extent to which top-level British politics of the post-war period has changed and, in some areas, remained the same, Peter Hennessy is the man to consult. The former Whitehall correspondent of The Times, later of the FT and The Economist, before moving into academia as professor of contemporary British history at Queen Mary, University of London, he is the author of several books that have dissected the inner workings of the state. With an election approaching, no book he has written seems more appropriate than his magisterial The Prime Minster: The Job And Its Holders Since 1945. Combining scholarship with journalistic fluency, it transforms what to some people might seem a rather stuffy subject into an absolute page-turner. As Baron Hennessy of Nympsfield, he sits as a non-aligned crossbencher in the House of Lords after his elevation to the peerage in 2010, and it’s here that I meet him to pick his mind on past PMs and get his take on current politics. A convivial man, Hennessy’s enthusiasm for the Lords, which he attends four days per week, is infectious. “One of the great things of being a historian in the Lords is that you can have lunch with your ‘exhibits,’” he confides. “We’ve got six or seven political generations here, and if you’ve got something on your mind from their era, when they were in Cabinet or Whitehall or in the military, you can just ask them.” When I suggest that Denis Healey, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, who first entered Parliament in 1952, must be the one whose political memory stretches back furthest, he reminds me that Peter [Lord] Carrington, the Foreign Secretary

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

“To succeed in leadership debates you need to be a plausible tart, whereas plausible tartery is only 10 per cent of the duties required to be a good PM” who resigned when the Falklands crisis broke out, and who stills attends Lords sittings, served in Winston Churchill’s last government, first taking his seat in the House of Lords in 1941. It’s no coincidence that at Queen Mary, the official title of Hennessy’s post is ‘Attlee Professor.’ A former trustee of the Attlee Foundation, he describes the leader of the first post-war Labour Government as his political hero. “He had no sense of personal destiny and

cooperman / Shutterstock.com

| FEATURE |

Mark III Photonics / Shutterstock.com

was a complete stranger to spin. Sadly, I never met him. I’m not party political, I’m a crossbencher, but Attlee was such an admirable person, brimming with decency and practical application, that he’s the model prime minster. Of course, he’s inconceivable today because he was hopeless on television and wouldn’t have recognised a soundbite if it had bitten him on the neck.” One of the most regrettable trends of recent years has been the rise of the identikit politician, parroting stock phrases and endlessly banging on about “hardworking people,” and other infuriating inanities. “Read George Orwell’s essay Politics and the English Language, written in 1946,” suggests Hennessy. “He’s got tests he applies to the sterility of political language, and it’s got much worse. The soundbite obsession means cliché and banality shuts out all meaning. I’m not a pessimist though. Within our political classes are some extraordinarily good people. But in the run-up to the General Election, the pre-election weather system leads to still more sterility.” One of the reasons for the public disconnect with political leaders seems to be a lack of believability, not helped by the strange publicity stunts they undertake to reach out to voters. They all, says Hennessy, could learn from Attlee who, even though having “all the presence of a gerbil” as one wag put it, never tried to be anything other than himself. “Being prime minster is a terrible life,” Hennessy says. “I’m critical of them, but it’s a relentless job, and they pay a high price for it. Few of them are serene in retirement.” In a recent British Academy lecture he quoted from an interview he conducted with David

ABOVE

David Cameron Age: 48 Current position: Prime Minister

Odds on retaining Premiership: 5/6 (William Hill)

Biggest gaffe:

In 2012, a mix-up after a family lunch left Cameron’s eight-year-old daughter Nancy alone in a pub for 15 minutes

Left

Ed Miliband Age: 45 Current position:

Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition

Odds on becoming Prime Minister: Even odds (William Hill)

Biggest gaffe:

During the 2014 Labour Party conference, Miliband forgot key parts of his speech, including sections on the economy, the deficit and immigration

Cameron, who spoke of how he had consulted John Major about coping with the pressures of being in number 10. Major told him he’d wished he’d left himself more time to think. Cameron seemed to have taken the point on board, and endeavoured “not to get cluttered, or tired,” so that when a crisis came along “you’ve got the energy and the time to do it.” Cameron has certainly generally managed to project a sense of calm during a tricky premiership, though his belligerence on Europe suggests he is another who would do well to adhere to Attlee’s advice: “If you are going to negotiate with someone tomorrow, don’t insult him today,” he once told a young Jim Callaghan. The intellectual Ed Miliband, meanwhile, draws parallels with Ted Heath, another deep thinker who had difficulty connecting with the public. “You have to get language and thought to rise up and walk out. For different reasons, neither Ed nor Ted are at the top end of that spectrum,” says Hennessy. Scant hope for another like Attlee in the age of personality politics. Returning to the subject of the election leadership debate, Hennessy fears that while politicians have got the 18-30 age group interested, there’s a serious danger that parties will choose future leaders with this group too much in mind. “To succeed in leadership debates you need to be a plausible tart, whereas plausible tartery is only 10 per cent of the duties required to be a good PM.” A sense of history always used to be thought a help, too, and we smile in recollection of Hennessy’s line in The Prime Minster on Churchill’s touching conviction that the British people thought and breathed history as he did. His was the last premiership, he writes, before the electronic age ripped apart the idea of “the great set speech and the elaborate unfolding of political argument.” Politicians are so cruelly exposed now that, for instance, when Ed Miliband attempted to make a long and thoughtful speech without notes or prompts at his party conference, he was pilloried for neglecting to mention the economy which, it might reasonably have been pointed out, had already been covered by the shadow chancellor Ed Balls. Before I leave, Hennessy hands me a copy of his latest book. Establishment and Meritocracy is an extended essay, a thought-provoking look at what people mean by the terms “Establishment” and “meritocracy”. Applying the book to the premiership, the idea of advancing by one’s own merits and endeavours to the top might be said to have been epitomised by the prime ministers of the mid-60s to mid-90s (Wilson, Heath, Callaghan, Thatcher and Major). How regrettable if the ‘open door’ idea which, at least in principle, characterised the technological age, is to be replaced during the era of its digital offspring by something much shallower. But I notice Hennessy’s book is dedicated to Michael Foot, another brainy individual utterly slaughtered for his appearance and wordiness, more than 30 years ago. Perhaps things haven’t changed as much as we think. Establishment and Meritocracy by Peter Hennessy is part of the Haus Curiosities, hauspublishing.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

THE GREAT DEBATE

Illustration by Amy Welch

Words: JOSEPHINE Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;DONOGHUE

PAY RISE for mps According to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA), British MPs are in line for a nine per cent pay rise in 2015; we ask whether MPs should be paid a high salary for a crucial job, or keep in line with public-sector austerity

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| Opinion |

t may come as a surprise, but when IPSA announced that the salary for a Member of Parliament (MP) was going to increase from £67,000 to £74,000 in 2015, the general consensus from those receiving the pay rise was not a positive one – an unexpected reaction, immediately making this a more interesting discussion. To put the argument into context, IPSA was created in 2009, shortly after the expenses scandal highlighted the flaws present in the old payment system for British politicians. Now that the expenses structure has been sorted out, the new chief executive Marcial Boo (previously of the counter-terrorism unit in the Home Office) argues that a review of figures in the last 12 months has illustrated that economic projections were looking up while MPs’ salaries had “fallen behind” those in comparable public-sector roles. “They are there to represent us all – to form laws, to send young people to war,” Boo said of MPs, in his first interview in the role (Sunday Telegraph, June 2014), “It is not an easy thing to do. We want to have good people doing the job and they need to be paid fairly. Not paid in excess, but not being paid a miserly amount either.” Boo also pointed out that the reforms would not cost taxpayers any more than the present scheme, stemming at least some of the outrage flowing from the keyboards of political reporters. Andrew Grice is not one such hysterical reporter, and writing for The Independent he agrees with the premise, pointing out that for such a difficult job, MPs need more than a passion for politics to make the effort worthwhile. “The fact is that many MPs could earn a lot more in the private sector,” he reasoned. “The very bright bunch of 148 Tories elected for the first time in 2010 are a good example; several underestimated the public vilification, invasion of family privacy and financial sacrifice of being an MP and may stand down after only one term. That would be a pity.”

“It is important to be sure that what MPs provide for themselves can be defended to the general public”

Indeed, for those in favour of the pay rise, even the proposed £74,000 is “at the low end”, to attract the calibre of candidates required for the job. “We have gone through the process in a really rigorous way. It is not an arbitrary figure,” said Boo. “Obviously, it is for Parliament to decide whether they want to take back responsibility for setting their own pay. I don’t believe that’s right. I think we are in a better position as a country now.” However, numerous MPs, including Prime Minister David Cameron, had made statements throughout 2013-14 objecting to the scale of the pay rise expected this year, calling it “unacceptable” and “wholly inappropriate”. Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband are also amongst those who do not feel comfortable with the notion of a nine per cent rise. “There are millions of people in the UK who have had a remorseless squeeze on their living standards for some years now,” said Clegg, at the first of his new monthly press conferences. “MPs are public-sector workers too. It would be incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to explain to the public why they should be treated so differently from their constituents,” – many of whom may still be under a severe public-sector pay restraint capped at one per cent. At the end of 2014, IPSA said that it would oversee one last review of the pay rise after the General Election – so the debate is still open. “This is not the final verdict,” chancellor George Osborne said on the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show, arguing that the rise was not acceptable during a time of pay restraint. “This is not the final report, there will be a report after the election and I think that’s when we’re going

- Margaret Thatcher

to have to tackle the issue.” Weighing up the points of discussion, it was this statement from a spokesman for IPSA in The Independent that makes the most sense. Simply put, he stated that: “One reason IPSA was created was to fix the legacy of backroom deals on MPs’ pay and pensions, and to do it independently. “That’s exactly what we’ve done. We’ve spent two years gathering the evidence and doing the research. MPs have had their say. The public has had their say. We’ve weighed up all the evidence and all the arguments, applied our judgment and made our decisions. That’s what being independent means.” Whilst it’s too early to know for sure how the issue of MPs, pay rise will progress, it seems fairly certain that a substantial increase is on the cards. After all, the numbers have already been dropped from earlier proposals of 11 per cent. And to borrow the words of Grice, who phrases it so succinctly, “What the hell was the point of handing decisions on pay to IPSA if we don’t accept its findings?”

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Brave new world

Architecture is one of the most revealing and powerful ways by which we can judge the advances in human society. As our living ideals have changed, so too have the shape, size and scale of the structures that define our cities. As work begins on the redevelopment of Battersea Power station, and New York City welcomes the tallest residential building in its history, we present the handful of power players redefining the world we live in

Words: Richard Brown and amy welch

Renzo Piano (Italian) Age: 77 Company: Renzo Piano Building Workshop Buildings: The Shard (London), the New York Times Building (New York), Auditorium Parco della Musica (Rome)

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Overview Introduced to architecture via the construction industry, the laureate of the 1998 Pritzker Prize is known for his use of light, believing architecture to be a mixture of illusion and symbolism. London became acquainted with Piano as the designer behind Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tallest, and arguably most controversial building, The Shard, which towers above the capital at 1,016 feet. The architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s futuristic vision, however, stems back to his work on the iconic, postmodern Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, which he worked on with his contemporary Lord Rogers.

| FEATURE |

©Christopher Ohmeyer

©Vincent Laforet

Controversy The Shard project had its detractors from the outset, but perhaps the most scathing was The Guardian’s art critic Jonathan Jones. Jones queried why London allowed Piano to “build something as out-ofscale and arrogant as The Shard...Why would a city spit on itself in that way?” he said.

Jean Nouvel (French) Age: 69 Company: Jean Nouvel Buildings: Torre Agbar (Barcelona), One New Change (London), Burj Qatar (Doha) One New Change (London) ©ARUP

LEFT The Shard (London) ABOVE The New York Times Building (New York) BELOW Auditorium Parco della Musica (Rome)

©Renzo Piano Building Workshop

Quotes Hitting back at critics of The Shard’s affluent exclusivity and funding from Qatari money, Piano wrote in The Guardian: “I never understood this idea, as if there is money that smells, or money that has a perfume. I found it a bit moralistic.”

©Renzo Piano Building Workshop

Overview Nouvel is often praised for his harmonious balance of surroundings, never dominating, but rather complementing a site’s natural landscape. The French architect’s artistic influences focus on light and shadows, with projects such as the Serpentine Gallery Pavilion becoming an urban event in its own right. Much like his contemporary César Pelli, a lack of signature style has become his professional trademark. Quotes Nouvel has previously linked the role of architect to that of film director, writing in the prestigious architectural magazine El Croquis: “I have worked for a long time as a scenographer, even on social housing... scenography is the relationship between objects and matter that we want to display to somebody who is watching.” Controversy A longstanding critic of modern architecture, the Prince of Wales had opposed Nouvel’s One New Change since 2005. He went as far as to write to Land Securities, the site’s developers, in a bid to remove Nouvel from the project entirely and have him replaced with a traditional designer.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

©Andrew Zuckerman

Lord [Richard] Rogers (British) Age: 81 Company: Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners Buildings: The Leadenhall Building (London), Lloyd’s Building (London), Millennium Dome (London), Heathrow Terminal 5 (London)

Controversy In 1987, having completed the Lloyds building, Rogers was the front runner to rebuild Paternoster Suqare until Prince Charles interjected with this: “You have to give this much to the Luftwaffe,” he said in a speech at Mansion House. “When it knocked down our buildings, it didn’t replace them with anything more offensive than rubble.” Rogers’ plans were subsequently scrapped.

Overview Rogers is responsible for some of the most exciting, and perplexing, buildings of the last century. A maverick or a saint – depending on your viewpoint – his work has divided opinion worldwide. His most famous and provocative work is the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. Before The Leadenhall Building (the Cheesegrater), the City’s acquaintance with Rogers came via the Lloyd’s building, which distinguished architectural writer Kenneth Powell described as the greatest building to have arisen in the area “since Sir Christopher Wren finally put the gold cross in the sky above the dome of St Paul’s.”

Lord [Norman] Foster (British) Age: 79 Company: Foster + Partners Buildings: 30 St Mary Axe (London), Wembley Stadium (London), the Willis Building (London), 8 Canada Square (London), Canary Wharf Underground Station (London), Canary Wharf Crossrail Station (London)

Overview “Lord [Norman Robert] Foster is the single most powerful architect in the world,” says The Independent’s architecture critic Jay Merrick. “His latest buildings and city plans are redefining life and environmental conditions in the world’s fastestgrowing economies.” Foster’s reputation was cemented during the 70s and 80s, when he began creating hugely influential buildings of ultra-rational design. He now sits at the helm of a company that employs more than 1,000 people, which can be developing some 200 major projects at any one time.

Quotes “There are important visual, technical and social lessons to be learnt from the past,” Rogers wrote in The Times in a stinging attack on Prince Charles. “But merely copying the outward form belittles the history.”

mikecphoto / Shutterstock.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

FROM TOP Lloyd’s Building (London), The Leadenhall Building (London), Millennium Dome (London)

Quotes “As an architect, you design for the present, with an awareness of the past, for a future which is essentially unknown.” Lord [Norman] Foster

| FEATURE | ©Crossrail

©Crossrail

©inigocia / Shutterstock.com

Controversy When, last year, Foster unveiled plans to renovate the main branch of New York’s public library by eliminating its historic stacks under its main reading room and creating a double-height contemporary space, his designs were met with uproar from scholars and the local community. Following the outcry, the library has been forced to abandon its plans.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT 30 St Mary Axe (London), Canary Wharf Crossrail Station (London), Canary Wharf Underground Station (London), Wembley Stadium (London)

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

César Pelli (Argentinian) Age: 88 Company: Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects Buildings: One Canada Square (London), Salesforce Tower (San Francisco), The Landmark (Abu Dhabi), International Finance Centre (Hong Kong), Lehman Brothers Building (London), Citigroup Tower (London), Petronas Towers (Kuala Lumpur)

Overview A distinguished recipient of more than 200 awards, including the American Institute of Architects’ 1995 Gold Medal, Pelli has designed some of the contemporary world’s most famous buildings. Led by a fascination with abstract, crystalline glass shapes, some of his works have a distinctly lightweight appearance, most notably the step-tapered, conical design of Malaysia’s Petronas Twin Towers. Pelli has been commissioned to design a tower for Canary Wharf ’s £4bn Wood Wharf scheme. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP One Canada Square (London), Petronas Towers (Kuala Lumpur), International Finance Centre (Hong Kong)

Rafael Viñoly (Uruguayan) Age: 70 Company: Rafael Viñoly Architects Buildings: 432 Park Avenue, 20 Fenchurch Street (The Walkie-Talkie), Battersea Power Station redevelopment

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Quotes “I realise that having a style would be very beneficial for my practice from a marketing standpoint, but I can’t do it. I believe my responsibilities as an architect are to design the most appropriate building for the place.” Controversy The most high-profile criticism of One Canada Square came from Prince Charles, who vocalised on national television: “I personally would go mad if I had to work in a place like that.” Almost 25 years later, however, and Canary Wharf has developed into one of the largest and most successful regeneration projects in the world, employing more than 110,000 people. Overview Born in Uruguay in 1944, Viñoly was just 20 when he founded Estudio de Arquitectura, a company that would become one of the largest design studios in Latin America. His eponymous firm followed in 1983. Completed in 1996, his design for the Tokyo International Forum secured Viñoly’s reputation as one of the greatest architects of his age. Most recently, he has created the master plan for the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station and designed 432 Park Avenue, the Western hemisphere’s, tallest residential building.

432 Park Avenue (New York)

Age: 64 Company: Zaha Hadid Architects Buildings: Dubai Opera House (Dubai), Heydar Aliyev Center (Azerbaijan), Sheikh Zayed Bridge (Abu Dhabi)

Overview Baghdad-born Dame Zaha Hadid was the first woman to win the Pritzker Prize – the Nobel Prize of architecture. Much of Hadid’s work demonstrates a meeting of reality and the supernatural, the combination of which is buildings that sacrifice straight lines in favour of curves so as to look like they belong to a distant future.

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Quotes “My work is operating with concepts, logic and methods that examine and organise the complexities of contemporary life patterns,” Hadid told The City Magazine in 2014. “We work a lot with fluidity because we believe it visually simplifies everything, and you can then cope with more complexity in a building without crowding or cluttering the visual scene.” Controversy First, Hadid was lampooned for the controversial yonic appearance of her Al-Wakrah Stadium, designed for the 2022 Qatari World Cup. Then, following reports that more than 1,000 workers had already died whilst building amenities for the tournament, she famously had this to say: “It’s not my duty as an architect to look at it.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Heydar Aligev Centre (Azerbaijan), 1000 Museum (Miami), Rooftop pool at the 1000 Museum (Miami)

Quotes “We made a lot of mistakes with this building,” Viñoly told The Guardian’s architecture critic Oliver Wainwright when talking about the Walkie-Talkie. “We judged the temperature [reflecting off the building] was going to be about 36 degrees. But it’s turned out to be more like 72 degrees. They are calling it the ‘death ray’, because if you go there you might die. It is phenomenal, this thing.”

Battersea Power Station (London)

Controversy It’s fair to say that the Walkie Talkie garnered the support of few admirers when it first rose from the medieval streets of the Square Mile. However, while it may have failed to captivate the imagination of the public in the same way as the Gherkin had previously, opinion seems to be changing, with the public beginning to embrace the building’s distinctive silhouette on the London skyline.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

All images courtesy of Aquarium Architecture

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE |

THE AGE OF

AQUARIA

Roland Horne of Aquarium Architecture introduces us to a world where shark tanks occupy living rooms and ÂŁ30,000 is the price tag for one fish Words: TIFFANY EASTLAND

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE |

J “Making a change and seeing the effects of a change is a very attractive and alluring thing for someone who has power”

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

ames Bond, Mission Impossible and The Wolf of Wall Street spring to mind as I scan the photo wall of Aquarium Architecture’s London Bridge office. It’s evident that when I think home aquarium, I think bachelor pad and apparently my preconceptions (thanks to Hollywood) aren’t entirely off the mark. Co-founder Roland Horne says most of his clientele are high-flying professional men and there’s a reason for this: “I think it’s got a lot to do with power.” He says many of his clients struggle with a lack of exclusive control in their work environment. For example, a CEO of a bank has to report to his board, while his aquarium is his own little world that he can change as and when he wishes. Roland admits a lot of people in the business don’t agree. “It sounds a little bit odd, but making a change and seeing the effects of a change is a very attractive and alluring thing for someone who has power.” Roland was studying economics when he and his partner Jeremy Clark discovered a true passion for aquatic life. While completing his Masters, Roland worked one or two days a week in a pet shop in Hampstead. The owner, however, faced some cash-flow challenges and had to close shop. According to Roland, on what was pretty much the final day of trading, they received a call from a Greek gentleman about installing a big aquarium, and it was from this call that Aquarium Architecture came about. Roland describes this first project as a rather traumatic experience. Roland and Jeremy had never done an installation before – they were both learning, as was the gentleman – but with help from a few industry leaders, they pulled it off and to this day the gentleman remains one of their best clients. In fact, off the back of that contract, they met a number of interior designers, architects and highend kitchen companies and developed

a network that spread organically. They now have a team of 15 in London, two in Manchester, two in New York, one in Lagos, along with subcontractors in Tuscany and Barcelona – impressive, given that the business had to withstand the global financial crisis during its infancy. And then there was the competition. Roland says, like most things, people try to follow in your footsteps but it is something he welcomes: “It drives us forward and makes us stay ahead.” There really isn’t an artistic professional outfit in the UK to rival Aquarium Architecture, but Roland says they’ve come across a few guys in New York, though he doesn’t seem too concerned – after all they’ve been asked to fly out to LA for their biggest installation yet. So why the fascination? Roland says aquariums remind us of our childhood. Most people would have grown up with a goldfish bowl or tropical aquarium at home, and just about everyone has an anecdote. He also says it’s one of few hobbies enjoyed by the wealthy and the poor: “That’s what’s interesting about this product; there are an awful lot of people with relatively low incomes who spend a high proportion of their salary on their aquariums.” And when the budget is big, the briefs are often bizarre. Roland and Jeremy have had their fair share of crazy: “We had a footballer in Manchester who wanted to put a fish tank in his floor, James Bond style. And I was at a house literally last week where the gentleman wanted me to do a 15-metre-long, three-metre-high shark aquarium because he had seen one somewhere in Dubai. There was another who simply wanted to have two tiger sharks in his house.” And then there are the lengths his clients go to fill their aquariums with the most exotic and valuable fish. For example, one of Roland’s clients keeps two special angel fish, worth £30,000 each. Roland reiterates the rather extraordinary environment in which he works, especially in terms of the relationships they build. He says they’re in these people’s homes, in their lives, week in, week out, watching their kids grow up. He says: “You build a very personal relationship with them to the point that you might start hanging out with them.” In fact, Jeremy has found himself hanging out with footballers in Manchester. However, I think Roland and Jeremy would argue it’s the response to their aquariums that’s most rewarding: “We’ve been in homes where there is a Damien Hirst on the wall, literally in the same room, and people walk straight past to the fish tank. That’s what’s amazing about it. It’s natural beauty, it’s not contrived.” aquariumarchitecture.com

not just a hotel,

a way of life

VISIT HRHI.COM

Reader’s Corner As the doors open to the London-based Maison Assouline, Annabel Harrison meets the man behind the world’s most magnificent coffee table books to discuss the ultimate cultural luxury; one’s very own, entirely bespoke, home library

“Y

ou can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me”. I agree with C.S. Lewis on both counts; I’m one of those people you’d deride or admire (as you wish) for being so absorbed in a 800-page book that I’m prepared to lug it 40 minutes each way on my daily commute (most recently, Tana French’s The Secret Place). Lewis would have surely made a beeline for the brand new temple to the mega-tome which opened last month in one of the most prestigious addresses in Piccadilly. When I visited Maison Assouline, a few weeks before its grand unveiling, the air was thick with dust and the sound of whirring machines but I was

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

nonetheless blown away by the potential of the space. 196A Piccadilly was designed by renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1922 and he did a remarkable job of ensuring the double-height space is flooded with light and character in the most wonderful way. The building is most perfectly suited to being kitted out in Assouline’s ‘contemporary-culture’ look; wooden panelling, leather furniture, arty wall hangings and, of course, books. My goodness, the books – thousands and thousands of them, lining the walls in immaculate ranks, ordered by subject, style and spine colour and untarnished by curious human hands. It will be a

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our Assouline favourites

FROM TOP Valentino: At the Emperor’s Table, £95; Hunting: Legendary Rifles, £55; Celebrity Cocktails, £32; Oscar de la Renta: The Style, Inspiration, and Life of Oscar de la Renta, £80; Krug by Krug Lovers, £40; The Impossible Collection of Design, £425; The Impossible Collection of Watches, £425. All available from assouline.com

bibliophile’s heaven if the Assouline boutique in Claridge’s is anything to go by. It will not, however, be a place for those who fold the corners of pages or use books as doorstops or would even consider reading in the bath. It will, as the charismatic and fantastically-named Prosper Assouline tells me, in his thick French accent, have “all of our dreams inside”. It is to be filled with the culture, sound and image of Assouline and it will sell everything from books, by the truckload, bookshelves and desks to carpet and sofas. “We don’t sell furniture; we sell a dream,” says Prosper. And what is this dream, I ask? “A complete library.” If you’re aware of brand Assouline, publisher of ‘the most sophisticated books in the world’, as its website declares, it will come as no surprise to hear that its next step, as it celebrates two decades in business, is to create bespoke libraries. “It’s something natural for us because we always design our own stores and we try to make them like apartments, like a home,” explains Prosper. Two years ago, Assouline designed a library for the Neiman Marcus Christmas catalogue and it sold five minutes after it went online “because it was something new”. The business potential was spotted and so here we are, discussing what would, for me at least, be a complete dream; my very own library with all my favourite books and hundreds more I’d like to read, as well as a literary (and visual) treasure trove of books heavy enough to annihilate the world’s largest spider. “We have an obligation to be a lifestyle brand and not just a publisher,” says Propser. “So it was obvious for me to create this concept [of bespoke libraries]. You have very few really big brands in furniture; some specialise in the kitchen or the bedroom but not the library. Because we are a publisher we obviously need a chair to sit in to read a book, and a bookshelf for the book… so today we propose a complete room. 15 years ago a cinema room was in fashion but now I think the trend is to have culture; a beautiful library full of beautiful, interesting, international books. The only thing which you cannot buy today is culture.” As with all the best bespoke offerings, delivery of your very own library will be swift (three months) and the possibilities endless. Particularly keen on fashion or fishing? Tattoos or taxidermy? Books can be sourced on any topic that takes your fancy. Prosper’s passion is palpable; he leans forward and looks directly at me as he explains that a good library “is something that has to be alive”. He adores books and has a huge library of his own in his Paris

“I am a tactical person. I don’t like fake women; I like real romance! I like to taste, to eat; I like to turn the pages of the books” apartment (he lives predominantly in New York). Unsurprisingly, he’s against the idea of e-readers and Kindles. “I am a tactic person. I don’t like fake women; I like real romance!” His French accent makes this sentence sound charmingly old-fashioned. “I like to taste, I like to eat; I like to turn the pages of the books.” Prosper does accept though, with good grace, that not every Assouline customer devours his titles from cover to cover – “A lot of people buy our books as part of decorations for their house” – and always works with this firmly in mind. “When I design my books I design them in two ways. They have to have our DNA, our standard quality; they have to be made completely by us and the subject has to work. Secondly, you have to be very aware of the book because it is not going to be opened every day, so we also design the book for pure decoration. Today, our books are a lot more than books.” Indeed, and I can assure you, an Assouline library is a lot more than just a library. assouline.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Words: TIFFANY EASTLAND

A VAULT FOR

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE |

R YOUR VINO Cellar Maisonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Andrew Speer explains how a wellplayed investment can quickly turn sour when safe storage is not a key consideration

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

couple of years ago, I received a rather expensive bottle of Penfolds Grange at Christmas. Much to my surprise, the bottle remained untouched into the New Year and throughout a very long and dry January (something that was really out of sorts for me). I made a promise to myself that this drop was not to be consumed until I had found a worthy occasion. February, March, April and May passed, and then, in June, the moment I had been waiting for arrived. I invited a few friends to sample the year’s most talked about wine – only those worthy of such a class drop, of course. The bottle was uncorked, the wine decanted, the food had been prepared and at last I had a glass in hand..... Hmmm, not exactly what I was expecting. I took another sip; the second was, if I’m honest, hard to swallow. What went wrong? Andrew Speer, of Cellar Maison, says: “Temperature control is a must as wine can be ruined quite quickly with high

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

temperature fluctuations.” Unlike me, most of Andrew’s clients are seasoned wine collectors and know only too well the importance of wine storage. That’s why they enlist the help of Andrew and his team. A specialist in bespoke, climate-controlled wine cellars and wine rooms, Cellar Maison creates stunning environments for the safe storage of wine in virtually any room, above or below ground. Andrew explains that in the past “the correct light, humidity and temperature conditions would only be found in a subterrain, windowless environment, hence the classic French wine caves. However, with the technology we have available today, we are able to re-create this environment even in a room with natural light with the aid of UV filters and advanced temperature and humidity control systems.” Further to the functionality of its wine cellars, Cellar Maison puts a

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great deal of emphasis on aesthetics. “Thoughtful placement of lighting can transform a nice functional wine cellar into a stunning feature wine wall and work of art,” says Andrew. Andrew believes that a wine cellar can add value to your home: “Higherend developers and architects that we work with are requesting wine walls and cellars to be implemented into the plans for their new-build investment properties.” And not just new-builds, hotels too; Cellar Maison is currently helping the Shangri-la Hotel with a design proposal for a four-metre-high, frameless, glass wine wall. Andrew assures us that his team can re-create just about any environment for the safe storage of wine: “Virtually any room both above and below ground can be transformed within a footprint as small as a wardrobe, up to an entire room.” DESIGN CON

Fine wine merchants FINE + RARE’S CELLAR MUST-HAVES:

Krug, Grand Cuvée, £100 It’’s the ultimate Champagne for many, and those who really know their onions will go for the multi-vintage Grande Cuvée. A blend of more than 100 different wines from ten or more vintages, this outstanding wine ages very well.

“Virtually any room both above and below ground can be transformed within a footprint as small as a wardrobe, up to an entire room” Design conCEPT PLANNING According to Andrew, the first important step to take in the planning process is to discuss with the client ideas and solutions for the space and wine collection. At Cellar Maison, a complimentary 3D design is prepared as part of the consultation to enable visualisation before the client decides to make a commitment to his or her project.

2010 Brunello di Montalcino, £75 TBC These outstanding wines are still under the radar, but the vintage is a strong candidate for a future legend. Biondi Santi is the godfather of all Montalcino estates, more or less inventing Brunello di Montalcino more than a century ago. Peerless wine and peerless heritage.

TECHNICAL PLANNING From here, the technicians will provide advice on the best climate control system and lighting solution to suit your property and wine collection. IMPLEMENTATION Finally, the technicians at Cellar Maison will ensure the project is expertly managed from manufacturing through to installation, liasing with both contractors and architects throughout. You may think your rather small collection doesn’t warrant such an elaborate home, but I can assure you, there are few things more devastating than pouring away a once very fine wine.

2005 Chateau Margaux, £500 Bordeaux has had three recent blockbuster vintages in 2005, 2009 and 2010. The former is a wise buy, outstanding and just starting to show its class. In fact, FINE+RARE would argue that 2005 Ch. Margaux is one of the finest wines ever produced. frw.co.uk

cellarmaison.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

A STATE OF

UNDRESS More than a place to hang your suits, The City Magazine discovers the possibilities of the bespoke dressing room, where mother-of-pearl and salmon-skin interiors come as standard Words: AMY WELCH

atirised in Hogarth’s Marriage à-laMode series, lavish dressing rooms of the 18th century were the pinnacle of social congregation. Filled with the finest furnishings, guests were entertained, letters were read and wine flowed freely. Nowadays, it’s a decidedly more sophisticated affair. Beyond behemoth space-age kitchens and dining tables poised over penthouse views, the dressing room is the most intimate space in one’s home. Tucked safely away from an overcrowded family room or formal dinner party, this space is secluded and private. It conjures up an image of vintage prosperity, Jay Gatsby-style, throwing vast arrays of coloured shirts from his wardrobe “piled like bricks in stacks a dozen high”. Bill Cleyndert & Company Ltd is one of the leading British manufacturers of bespoke furniture, cabinetry and specialist joinery. Increasingly, the firm sees clients seeking a personalised space for their garments; senior draughtsman Jonathan Rickett tells me that “there will often be constraints for designers and furniture makers, such as historic building listing, but at the very top end of the market personalised spaces are key”. I previously regarded the idea of a dedicated room in which to dress, a rather dated, label-clad concept, enticing mostly Hollywood socialites, but Jonathan informs me otherwise. As upscale developments across

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE | Ebury Square, Berkeley Homes

“A great dressing room should be easy to use and pamper the client like a personal valet”

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE |

London now rarely overlook the importance of private dressing rooms – seen to be as imperative as an en suite – it appears my preconceptions may have been slightly misguided. With sophisticated technology to rival any media suite and handcrafted cabinets finished in the finest materials, bespoke residential dressing rooms have quickly become a niche requirement. One memorable project, Jonathan reflects, “was a dressing room created on a glassfloored mezzanine. Exotic gloss-lacquered Imbuya veneered cabinetry featured leather drawer fronts, embossed with the client’s initials and lined with Arctic salmon skin.” For many of Bill Cleyndert & Company’s clientele, their dressing rooms act as part-wardrobe, part-art gallery, showcasing new Sotheby’s acquisitions alongside the finest fabrics and couture labels. Be it art, footwear or fine watches, displaying and appreciating one’s possessions is often as important as storing them. For this, numerous creative options are available. Jonathan explains: “Stitched soft leather or Alcantara is ideal for forming around the more complex shapes required to display accessories”. More discreetly, simple compartments offer “the ideal opportunity to use that special luxury kidskin hide with some metal or mother-of-pearl trim”. So what defining interiors can reflect the identity of a client, a mahogany-panelled bunker of solitude for the high-powered trader perhaps? “Personalisation can be seen in the form of how the space is used, materials selected or the integration of emblems and initials into the scheme,” says Jonathan. For all the bespoke touches and exotic materials, for the average City abode wanting a sophisticated space that will remain timeless, what is the most important thing to consider? “We mustn’t over-stylise but let the material, textures and finishes talk for themselves. “A modern space can be created that can be appreciated for years to come and add value to any residence.”

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Stylist and wardrobe consultant Gabrielle Teare shares her insights on how to organise your dressing room How is your dressing room organised? I like to arrange by piece, so all the dresses and skirts sit together. Then by colour, so you can instantly find what you are looking for.

What should no dressing room be without? A full-length mirror is an absolute must.

Five essential items in a man’s wardrobe… A well-tailored suit, great leather shoes, a casual jacket, slim fitted jeans and several crisp shirts.

Five essential items in a woman’s wardrobe… A classic LBD, tailored jacket, fitted white shirt, pencil skirt and a timeless handbag. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Queens Grove, Manushi Design. Ebury Square, Berkeley Homes. The Tower Penthouse at Chelsea, St. George

Why is it important to have a dedicated room for your clothing? I find that clients who travel frequently have their clothes in suitcases, and then unsurprisingly, they can’t find anything. A custom dressing room creatively solves such dilemmas.

THE CARNABY CHAIR

Sit back in style this Christmas with the thoughtfully sculpted Carnaby chair, blending mid-century looks with easy-going oatmeal upholstery that makes it work in any interior. Swoon Editions has sourced the Carnaby direct from the maker for just £299. Edition limited to 91.

Limited Editions. Exceptional prices. From artisan workshops direct to your door, discover new designs every day without the inflated price tag at Swoon Editions.

THE THEO SIDE TABLE

THE KARLA CHAIR

Sink into the feather-filled cushions of the Karla, with its angled, solid oak frame and back-slat detail for a complete mid-century look. Usually £463 in high-end retailers, Swoon Editions has sourced the Karla direct from the maker for just £299, saving you 35%. Edition limited to 109.

Its industrial allure, hand-painted circular top with blue accents and contrasting Dover white legs make the Theo side table effortlessly cool. Swoon Editions has sourced the Theo direct from the maker for just £99. Only 14 left.

THE ELLINGTON SIDEBOARD

Crafted entirely from solid mango wood, the Ellington sideboard blends retro and contemporary references in seamless geometric cohesion. Swoon Editions has sourced the Ellington direct from the maker for just £399. Only four left.

THE DARCY CONSOLE TABLE

Following the revival of the butler’s tray, the Darcy’s deep oak tones and x-shaped leg design promise unrivalled style and suitability, whether its placed in a hallway or living room. Usually £496 in high-end retailers, Swoon Editions has sourced the Darcy direct from the maker for just £249, saving you 50%. Only eight left.

SAVE £50 ON ORDERS OVER £500. Go to swooneditions.com/thecity2 and enter voucher code thecity2 at checkout or call 020 3137 2464* quoting thecity2. New designs launch every day and sell out fast. Sign up at swooneditions.com/city2

Delivery £38 per item (the Theo £12 per item) to UK mainland. See individual items for details. Offer is restricted to one per customer, per household. Discount will be applied to fi rst transaction only. Offer ends at 23.59 on 20.01.15. Enter the voucher code at checkout or quote on the phone. Discount will be shown at checkout. Any refunds will take into account the discount. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Please check delivery terms & conditions online or call 020 3137 2464. *Calls from a BT landline are charged at standard network rate. Calls from mobiles and other providers may cost more. Products subject to availability. Standard Swoon Editions terms & conditions apply. Check swooneditions.com/terms-conditions for full details.

| collection |

WATCHES & JEWELLERY Celebrating the delightful and the divine from the world of fine jewellery and haute horology

salon style We’re looking forward to visiting the newly reopened Patek Philippe Salon; the venerated watch company is now housed across both 15 and 16 New Bond Street and floor space totals a remarkable 420m². Patek Philippe’s London Salon (one of only three Patek Philippe fully owned retail showrooms, together with Geneva and Paris) now carries the largest and most extensive range of the brand’s watches that has ever been available in the UK. Visit to marvel at this beautiful white gold Grand Complication (Ref. 5270G) and the impressive interior, designed by top French designer Reda Amalou; the materials used, which include alabaster, sycamore and brass, perfectly complement the elegant, sophisticated aesthetic we’ve come to expect from the brand. Patek Philippe Salon, 16 New Bond Street, patek.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Swiss movement, English heart

C9 HARRISO N J U MP IN G HO U R MK III Bespoke ETA 2824-2 Jumping Hour automatic modification by Master Watchmaker Johannes Jahnke / Each piece personally assembled by Johannes and his team in Switzerland / 43mm, surgical grade stainless steel case with sapphire crystal and transparent case back / CITES certified, premium grade, Louisiana alligator strap with Bader deployment / 5 year movement guarantee

564_ChristopherWard_TheCity.indd 1

08/12/2014 12:07

| COLLECTION |

WATCHes

Polished Precision Bremont, the British watch brand that manufactures its mechanical timepieces in Henley-on-Thames, has introduced a polished steel version of its ALT1-C. The classic piece takes design cues from the company’s 2012 Victory, which remains arguably the brand’s best-looking creation to date. Whereas the Victory was limited (and sold out almost immediately), Bremont will make as many of the ALT1-C/PW as it thinks it can sell, which, owing to its good looks and the cult following the brand commands, will more than likely be an awful lot. ALT1-C/PW, £4,495, Bremont, The Courtyard, The Royal Exchange, bremont.com

High Performance

Raymond Weil Remembered From Space to Sea When Felix Baumgartner became the first human to freefall at Mach 1.25, he did so with a Zenith El Primero Stratos Flyback Striking 10th strapped to his spacesuit. If, as Zenith hopes, record-breaking sailor Yann Guichard wins the transatlantic sailing race the Route du Rhum, he’ll do so sporting an El Primero Stratos Spindrift. If you’re looking for a no-fear, sea-faring sports watch, what better option than a chrono that’s stood the test of one of sailing’s most treacherous contests? El Primero Stratos Spindrift, from £6,000 zenith-watches.com

One of few watch houses still in the hands of their founding families is Raymond Weil; after 18 years of his son-in-law being at the helm, the brand is now under the stewardship of grandson Elie Bernheim. Following the recent passing of Mr Weil, he launched the Maestro Raymond Weil Limited Edition (£14,950), a rose-gold-fluted chronograph embossed with his grandfather’s signature. An automatic-winding mechanical heart sits inside the timepiece, one of the brand’s most ambitious pieces yet. A fitting tribute indeed. raymond-weil.com

Nestled between the watch world’s super-brands at November’s SalonQP, was industry newcomer Breva. Yet to celebrate its fifth birthday, the Swiss firm graced the Saatchi Gallery to showcase its Génie O2 Air, a watch that in addition to telling the time will indicate both altitude and air pressure. Air pressure is measured using special non-magnetic ‘memory metal’ capsules (invented by Breva) and a mind-blowingly complex system of gears. Expect big things from the brand. Génie O2 Air, £82,000 breva-watch.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Sunseeker Magazine: Aaron Basha advertisement

Aaron Basha Boutique • 685 Madison Avenue • New York • 212.935.1960 • w w w.aaronbasha.com Athens

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| COLLECTION | Sabine Ghanem

Tessa Packard

BRIGHT

Young Things As we ring in the New Year, Olivia Sharpe speaks to the rising female stars who are changing the face of the luxury jewellery industry

Georgina Skan

Lily Kamper

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Renaissance Woman Sabine Ghanem’s career to date sounds too good to be true. After all, here is a woman who fell into the industry almost by chance; after studying at the prestigious Gemological Institute of America, she was unable to find a job so decided to give jewellery design a whirl and after just two years, she has already achieved unprecedented success. Her debut collection Relic, an assortment of medieval-inspired pieces, was snapped up by the likes of Browns in London and Bergdorf Goodman in New York. This was followed shortly after by Harlequin, a 35-piece collection based around the colourful Art Deco movement, which was highly sought-after. Speaking to Sabine, she is nothing if not humble: “I’ve just been very lucky. I designed the first collection without even a thought that it would turn into a job.” It is because of this fateful series of events, perhaps, that she is so relaxed when it comes to her brand. Working from her Belgravia home, Sabine spends hours “overdosing on vintage imagery... my favourite part of my research is looking at old stuff; vintage films, books, even YouTube videos. I’ve just watched a film from 1936 called The Great Zeigfeld and just the costumes could inspire a whole collection.” The designer is in the midst of creating her third collection, due to launch at the end of this month. While reluctant to give too much away, she does confide that, like the past two collections, she has referred back to a previous era; the Renaissance. A self-confessed hermit, Sabine jokes how one day she would like to open a store right at the entrance of her flat, “all in velvet and warm colours, like a beautiful jewellery box”. sabineg.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| COLLECTION |

Clockwise from left Sketches of the latest collection; Cocktail Sting ring, Fire Wasp earrings, Honeycomb bracelet and Honeycomb stud earrings (all part of the Predator / Prey collection)

What do you love most about London? It’s ever-changing and never-changing, if that makes sense. There are consistently new shops, new restaurants, new pop-ups. And yet, the Chelsea that I live in now is still the Chelsea that I grew up in; the feeling and the vibe hasn’t changed.

A Pretty Penny

Q&A

with Tessa Packard

What are you currently working on? I’ve just created a collection inspired by English penny sweets. It started off with the idea of going to a gemstone boutique and it reminding me of being a kid in a sweet shop. I like the juxtaposition of something that originally cost a penny and something that looks like a million dollars. Pieces with a lower price point can be collected over time and layered up, while the more high-end pieces include gemstone-encrusted honey drop rings and earrings, and these watermelon tourmaline slices that look like Brighton rock. It’s really fun. I understand you do bespoke commissions. What engagement ring trends are you noticing? I think there will always be a market for the single stone setting but I find people come to me because they want something that is classic but also different. I’ve recently finished a commission for a 90 year-old man who wanted a modern brooch for his wife for their diamond wedding anniversary. I love how even at that age they still want to give each other interesting, innovative presents. What’s your most treasured possession? My photo albums full of collages and storyboards that I do religiously. I started when I was about 12 and I have so many now I can’t even count but if I had a fire those would be what I’d save.

Best beauty secret? Lime juice mixed with granulated sugar as a face scrub. The acid in the lime eats into your skin so you come out looking glowing. I use it at the beginning of spring to give myself a bit of a revamp. Preferred exercise regime? I do one hour of yoga a week for my back but otherwise nothing. I did ten years of intense running but then I gave up because it made me into a bad person [laughing]. Favourite place to escape to? The middle of nowhere in Mozambique. My family and I stay in a camp where there’s nothing around so it’s heaven. Worst guilty pleasure? Probably lunchtime drinking. You know you shouldn’t really do it when you’re working but it’s just so nice sometimes! New Year’s resolutions? To learn how to relax as I’ve become a total workaholic. I think my husband would really appreciate it if I wasn’t on Instagram every single second. And maybe to make myself feel less guilty when I am on Instagram. tessapackard.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| COLLECTION |

Clockwise from left Cocktail Hour lace cuff; selection of cocktail rings from the Cocktail Hour collection; sketch of the Cage emerald and diamond bracelet; Cage emerald earrings

Take Flight “So how big is your team?” I ask Georgina Skan as we sit down for coffee. “You’re looking at it,” she smiles, pointing to herself and her sister. “I like to think of it as the blind leading the blind.” In spite of her self-deprecating appraisal, it is evident from her jewellery pieces that Georgina is anything but blind; in fact, she is clearly visionary. However, despite having been head designer at Garrard and Asprey, she has remained relatively under the radar. After studying at Central Saint Martins, where she acquired a BA in jewellery design, Georgina then went on to work on the shop floor at Theo Fennell but it wasn’t long before he realised where her talents really lay: “After months of bugging Theo he took me on as his PA but then he realised how useless I was at it,” she explains, laughing. “So I ended up working with him for four years as his head designer.” Next came Garrard, where Georgina joined Jade Jagger who was creative director at the time. After Jagger left, she was able to make her own mark on the company, responsible for creating the iconic Wings collection. She was then headhunted by Asprey but after a spell as design director she found herself “itching to do her own work” so decided to wing it alone. Last year, Georgina launched her first eponymous collection; The Cocktail Hour. Comprising 10 pieces, ranging from Art Deco cocktail rings incorporating one-of-a-kind gemstones to a spectacular cuff inspired by French lace, it showcased

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

her unique design talent and creativity. Because of her old-school training, Georgina scorns computers in favour of traditional crafting techniques, thus giving her pieces an authentic and timeless quality. “I think you can very easily develop a cookie-cutter approach when you’re designing collections,” she comments. “I’ve been guilty of this at times but I know now this isn’t the best way to work.” Having worked at some of Bond Street’s top jewellery houses, Georgina has a good relationship with some of the most respected stone dealers who emphasise the importance of ethical mining; this is a message that she, too, spreads. “I couldn’t work with a stone dealer unless I know for certain that they’ve gone straight to the source.” Given the incredible response she received from The Cocktail Hour, this year sees the designer extend the collection based around themes she explored initially: Lace, Coulisses and Cage. This will include a beautiful lace wing collar with a matching cocktail ring, a diamond and emerald bracelet based on the original Cage earrings (inspired by the tiny ribcage of a hummingbird) and a pair of wing-like, ethereal earrings which again incorporate beautiful stones but have a greater focus on diamond work. These pieces will be released over the course of the year and the designer will also continue to work on bespoke commissions, this being at the heart of the brand. georginaskan.com

“I couldn’t work with a stone dealer unless I know for certain that they’ve gone straight to the source” - Georgina Skan

| xxxxxxxxxxxxx |

Kamp Follower

Q&A

with Lily Kamper

What are your biggest inspirations? My collections evolve from many different things: furniture, natural materials and architecture. The S/S15 collection I launched last Fashion Week was heavily influenced by an architect called Ricardo Bofill. He designs brightly coloured, geometric buildings. I was also heavily influenced by Art Deco cinema lobbies and old black-and-white films. Biggest highlight of your career? Vogue coming to interview me in my studio. That was pretty insane. The Vogue Talents Corner was also amazing because I presented my work to Anna Wintour. She was very complimentary. Last naughty purchase? I got married this summer and we each bought NIKEiD trainers; I wore white trainers with a black tick and he had black ones with a white tick. Both pairs had our initials on them. What jewellery did you wear on the day? A friend of mine, Ryan Storer (a jewellery designer I met when we were both in Milan) sent me a couple of ear cuffs which were beautiful. What’s something that’s not commonly known about you? I hate coriander. It’s my nemesis. When I go to a restaurant I have to pretend I’m allergic to it. Favourite piece of jewellery you own? I have a really weird ring that my grandma gave me which is completely the opposite of my taste. It’s a garnet ring that’s half rose gold and half yellow gold. It’s very bizarre because I can’t understand why anyone would have repaired it using two different metals but I can’t help but love it. What have you got in the pipeline for this year? I’m working on an exciting collaboration with Globe-Trotter which will be unveiled in February. lilykamper.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE Image: | January 2015 69 S/S15 collection

| COLLECTION |

JEWELLERY NEWS Independent Woman

Collection IV

Despite having only recently joined the company, head jewellery designer Lucrezia Buccellati has already made quite an impact, launching a series of rebranding initiatives to make the familyowned, Italian heritage jeweller appeal to a younger generation. Along with a redesigned logo and a line of bejewelled iPad and iPhone covers, Buccellati is in the midst of releasing a series of short films, each featuring one of the brand’s female ‘muses’. The first includes fashion designer Marta Ferri, while the second stars president of Spanish fashion brand Delpozo, Indre Rockefeller. Along with this, the brand has also just launched a range of more affordable jewellery pieces, starting from £2,000. buccellati.com

Rising star Lily Elia has launched a new 10-piece collection for her eponymous brand, Lily Gabriella. Founded in 2011, the company has gone from strength to strength and this latest collection is indicative of this; the jeweller harkens back to childhood memories of holidays in Brazil by creating jewellery pieces which marry the natural and the sculptural, with smooth, undulating lines and never-ending circles that conjure up images of rolling clouds and rippling water. Full finger rings of blue sapphire pavé, on the other hand, possess an almost talismanic quality, shielding the wearer like protective armour. Collection IV, from £8,190, lilygabriella.com

Noudar Jewels and its new collection Cutting exclusive has arrived in Harrods’ Luxury Jewellery room. Comprising an assortment of ring sets and finger bracelets inspired by Islamic and Arabic cultures, the eclectic range remains signature to the brand. Designer Noor Al Fardan comments:

Scale the Heights

Edge

“The second collection is an edgier and a more daring version of the previous collection; holding onto Noudar’s unique essence, focusing mainly on rings and earrings, taking inspiration from Arabic heritage” - Noor Al Fardan

Noudar Jewels, available at Harrods Luxury Jewellery Room harrods.com

Swiss jeweller Shawish Genève has landed in London and the design of its first flagship boutique – featuring a spectacular glass tube chandelier and a fish skin motif in the facade panels – is in keeping with the brand’s innovative and visionary aesthetic. Well-known for creating high jewellery pieces which combine traditional techniques with modern technology, arguably Shawish’s biggest claim to fame is designing the world’s first all-diamond ring, cut from a single diamond weighing 150 carats. From the enchanted Magic Mushroom collection to the whimsical Teddy Bear set (just some of the pieces on display), visiting the boutique is a magical experience. shawish.ch

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

STYLE HER

The leading ladies and latest looks guiding this season’s style

best foot forward For Carrie Bradshaw and her tribe of fashionista followers, it was a case of love at first sight. Carrie’s shriek of excitement over a new pair of Jimmy Choos was probably not the first and it will certainly not be the last. Since its first cameo in Sex and the City, the brand and its design team have each season delivered showstopping collections, making their way into the wardrobes (and hearts) of the fashion elite. For Cruise 2015, the Choo dream team delivers a playful pop of colour. From fluorescent pumps to colour-blocked stilettos, it seems there’s nothing beige about this collection. If you dare, the bold offering is perfect for pairing with a colour-blocked ensemble that’s bound to turn heads. If you’d prefer to play it safe, we suggest teaming with a classic LBD. jimmychoo.com

IF THE SHOE 72

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FASHION |

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| LIFESTYLE |

fresh start the products to inspire your beauty routine this january

haute hair If you didn’t know Balmain were in the hair business then listen up. The brand’s two lines for moisturising and volume each contain the most important essentials for maintaining manageable, healthy and shiny locks, while complementary styling products give the final couture touch. The gift packs come beautifully packaged and our favourite products are the silk perfume with vaporiser (a repairing and detangling solution infused with Argan oil for a light finish) and salt spray (perfect for manipulating body, definition and texture) balmainhair.com

Gift boxes, £49.95 each

mirror mirror The intelligent face of beauty comes in the form of simplehuman’s sensor mirror. Mimicking natural light via a ring of super bright surgicalgrade LEDs, it mimick’s natural sunlight and reflects it consistently and evenly for flawless make-up application. The built-in sensor turns it on and off as you approach or step away, and thanks to USB charging there’s no untidy cord. Each charge lasts up to five weeks. £99, simplehuman.com

fresh faced If you really don’t have time for detoxing this January, Bobbi Brown’s new range is the cheat sheet to natural, glowing radiance. The new Illuminating Nudes collection is an edit of five must-have products focussed on simple, clean colouring and easy-to-use textures – think flawless skin with nude lips. from £16, bobbibrown.co.uk

skin solution Dry skin is the winter enemy but Sepai has a combative solution in the form of its nutritive face masks. Containing almond oil, shea butter and vitamin E, the mask creates a moisturising barrier to boost skin’s hydration and brightness levels. For use once or twice a week, it’s easy to factor in to your routine. £91, selfridges.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

New year. N e w w o r k o u t. New you.

“ Fast, fun and devastatingly effective at sculpting legs, backside and above all the stomach ” The Standard . Your first class just £12.50. BEST PILATES STUDIO – TATLEr GYM AwArDS 2013 & 2014 Notting Hill, Chiswick, Mayfair, St James’s, Hatton Garden, City

w w w. t enpilates . com

FITNESS

The tips, tricks and training kit you need to stay at the top of your game

FEEL THE BURN

As more hard-core classes pop up in the City, we compare two studios harnessing the power of HIIT

BARRY’S BOOTCAMP HIIT techniques work with resistance training to ‘shock’ the body into losing weight and building muscle. Think gruelling basic training in a quirky, East London disguise. USP An in-store retail boutique means you don’t have to suffer a harrowing gym class flashback when you forget your workout kit. The FuelBar also serves up some great protein shakes. VERDICT Hard work. But the results are worthwhile. The Alphabeta Building, EC1Y 1BE

PROJECT FIT Project Fit also taps into the effective trend of HIIT. The atmosphere is encouraging, with levels for all abilities in the slightly patronising ‘Walker-Jogger-Runner’ system. USP 35 minute lunchtime classes include a proteinoriented ‘Lean Lunch Package’, provided by Tossed, to take back to the office. VERDICT Designed for those who would give 110 per cent without being pushed. 36-38 Cornhill EC3V 3NG

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| LIFESTYLE |

BEST FITNESS TRACKERS Our roundup of the best wearable tech to support your health, from calorie tracking to ‘rapid eye movement’ sleep cycle insights, these bands are like having a personal trainer strapped to your wrist.

Tracks mental agility Phyode W/ME, £135, phyode.com

TO GOOD HEALTH

ASK THE BODYDOCTOR Q. What’s the best time of day to train and why?

In a recent survey, the Office for National Statistics found that one in 10 Britons would like to work fewer hours and take a pay cut in order to do so. Furthermore, since the crash, full-timers spend longer at their desks either from fear or necessity, as vacancies go unfilled and those left are expected to pick up the slack. So, there seems there’s no time like the present to take charge of our health as we head into another busy year. The team behind Supplicity, the nutritional supplements line, have launched Mojo, a bespoke supplement plan that’s been formulated with the twenty-to-thirtysomething, City worker in mind. Combining B Vitamins, Vitamin C, Zinc, Omega-3 and Korean Ginseng, Mojo promises to leave you feeling energised, recharged and ready for another long day.

A. The best time of day to train is early in the day, because the earlier you exercise the longer your metabolism is elevated for, and the more calories you burn. But if it takes you four double espressos and matchsticks to open your eyes before 9 o’clock in the morning, it’s unrealistic to expect to give your best at a 6.30am session. Try not to exercise late in the day, unless that’s the only time you can because you have a very early start. Your metabolic rate goes up when you exercise, but if you excercise in the evening and then eat, you have a stomach full of undigested food. When you go to sleep your metabolism drops again, meaning the food stays undigested. Apart from that, it takes you ages to get to sleep. Our whole thing is about eating the right food at the right time in relation to when you exercise because exercise is energy and food is fuel. Email your fitness and health related queries to bodydoctor@rwmg.co.uk For personal training or to sign up to the six-week fitness programme, contact David Marshall at The Bodydoctor, 36 South Audley Street (020 7499 9990), bodydoctor.com

Mojo subscription, from £18 a month, Supplicity, supplicity.co.uk

Top Juice Packs The smart watch Fitbit Surge, £199.99, fitbit.com

Polished pedometer Jawbone Up3, £149.99, jawbone.com

Notifications on a budget Razer Nabu, Approx. £50, razerzone.com

Controversy has long surrounded the harm of lengthy, liquid detoxes. Whether you wholeheartedly believe in the benefits, or spurn the phenomena as a fad, even the most nutritious juices often aren’t all that pleasant to stomach. These two packages buck the trend.

Green Cleanse 0 winter version Purifyne, purifynecleanse.com

Bespoke Alkaline Cleanse Raw and Juicy, raw-and-juicy.com

HYPOXI HYPE Hypoxi’s reptilian vacuum pods have been around for a while now, promising increased fat burn through gentle exercise in low pressure. If you’re not one to usually shirk a gruelling hour-long fitness class, perhaps post-Christmas may be a reasonable excuse to lie back and let the inches drop off. The course has been proven to lead to a 17 centimetre weight loss over a six week period (3 sessions per week). Appointments can fit into hectic schedules during lunchtimes as treatments only last 30 minutes. Call 020 7283 7070 for an appointment treatmentsatbank.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

fighting FIT Transform yourself from City slacker to lean machine with some performance enhancing workout wear

Photographer: Pharic Crawford Stylist: Lucie Dodds Stylist Assistant: Charlotte Piccio

Black tank, ÂŁ14, American Apparel, americanapparel.co.uk; Grey zip joggers, ÂŁ235, Markus Lupfer at Harvey Nichols, harveynichols.com

this page: Red pro jacket, £200, Red bib shorts, £190, both Rapha, rapha.cc; White mesh t-shirt, £80, AqAq at Harvey Nichols, as before opposite page: Black white and red leather mesh vest, £1,055, Givenchy, givenchy.com; Black drop crotch joggers, £585, Rick Owens at Harvey Nichols, as before; White leather boots, £550, Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com

this page: Grey rib vest, £14, American Apparel, as before; Black baggy trousers, £260, Black leather rucksack, £280, Y-3 Adidas, Y-3.com opposite page: White all-over lion ring print nylon bomber jacket, £452, Versace, versace.com; White joggers, £32, American Apparel, as before

this page: Black and green zip tee, £145, Green gilet, £170, RLX and black joggers, £85, all Polo Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com; Black leather boots, £550, Jimmy Choo, as before opposite page: Black merino sweatshirt, £120, Black bib shorts, £190, all Rapha, as before; Sunglasses, £POA, Philip Lim at Linda Farrow, lindafarrow.com

STYLE HIM

Look the part, feel the part, from Breakfast to boardroom to bar

no.1 savile row Gieves and Hawkes has completed the year long renovations of its illustrious home at No.1 Savile Row. The historic townhouse offers ready-to-wear collections, private tailoring and bespoke services, which sit alongside a military department and royal archive. The private tailoring rooms have a gentlemen’s club feel thanks to hand-cast bronze finishes, wood panelling and a carved, oak bar. Lofty ceilings and original features, including an original William Kent fireplace, contrast with contemporary art in the form of Fredrikson Stallard’s broken and crushed effect mirrors. 1 Savile Row, W1S 3JR, gievesandhawkes.com

The Boot Specialist A fine, tailored fit is something not exclusive to the tailors of Savile Row, according to Normandy-born, wellington boot brand Le Chameau. Keeping craftsmanship alive since 1927, its bespoke rubber boots were formerly designed for the rigorous lives of farmers and fishermen. Today, the brand’s popularity may have spread to urban consumers, but Le Chameau’s boots are still hand-made with traditional tools on aluminium lasts by a single “maître bottier” – a title that takes nine months of intensive training to earn. lechameau.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FASHION |

Hackett Sets Up Shop Last month, we spoke with the store manager of Hackett’s new City store and now we take a look inside. By using glass and granite, and local British designers such as James Harrison and artist Brian Blow (known for graphic prints), Hackett’s more traditonal look has been given a modern twist. Personalisation services are another major feature of the store, with engraving, embroidery and complimentary leather embossing available. Hackett, 55 Old Broad Street, EC2M 1EX hackett.com

New Store for Crockett & Jones Crockett & Jones’ base in the City has moved, albeit only next door. The move to No.26 Royal Exchange may not have Leather Travel been far but the larger store has Shoe Kit, £105 been transformed by rich maple cabinets setting off the quality of the shoes, oak flooring and leather armchairs – a luxurious spot to try on a pair or two. Vintage factory photography is a reminder of the brand’s experience and heritage, which spans 135 years. If you forget to look after your investment, Crockett and Jones’ leather Travel Shoe Kit is a tan calf-leather bag containing essentials from shoe and welt brushes to wax polish. 26 Royal Exchange, EC3V 3LP, crockettandjones.com

Capsule Collection Bringing a touch of American prep to the City of London, the award winning New York-based designer Thom Browne has teamed up with menswear mogul Mr Porter for a capsule collection. The nine pieces include brogue boots, a Chesterfield overcoat and check cotton Oxford shirt. Traditional tailoring meets innovative trademark touches, like alternating fabrics and turn-ups, while slim and sharp silhouettes highlight the craftsmanship that Browne is renowned for. From £195, mrporter.com

Vierzon, £255, Le Chameau, mrporter.com

Chasseur, £340, Le Chameau, mrporter.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| LIFESTYLE |

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navigate THrough the NEW YEAR WITH THE CITY’S essential grooming guide

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Ready for your next challenge? Track | BMX | Road | MTB

Book your session now visitleevalley.org.uk/velopark

Lightweight by Impossible

Hackspace Cubed by Leeds Hackspace

VISUAL ARTS

Experience the Winter Lights Festival as it illuminates Canary Wharf with a collection of striking artwork

WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL @ CANARY WHARF

 5 – 30 JANUARY 2015

THROUGHOUT CANARY WHARF FREE

11 artists from 9 countries present an array of spectacular illuminations throughout Canary Wharf lighting up the dark winter months with radiant installations and artworks. The festival includes sculptures, lasers, projections and digital art, many of which invite interaction by the public.

INFINITY POOLS MIDDLE DOCK A series of illuminated pools appear on the

surface of the water. Look closer and each seems to be an endless vortex of light plunging down into the depths.

and reflect the play of water during the day. D By Bálint Bolygó / 5 – 30 January / balintbolygo.com

D By Stephen Newby / 5 – 30 January / fullblownmetals.com

[M]ONDES

LIGHTBENCH & HEATBENCH

JUBILEE PARK & WESTFERRY CIRCUS GARDENS

CANADA SQUARE PARK Two benches, one illuminated and the other heated, add a new experience to taking the weight off your feet. Connect to WiFi-102 and use an app to change the colour and brightness of the Lightbench. D By Lbo Lichtbankobjekte / 5 – 30 January / lichtbank.com

LIGHT WAVE

Three pyramidal light sculptures play with the relationship between light, space and time. D By Atsara / 5 – 16 January / atsara.fr

LE BICHE

JUBILEE PARK

Ethereal wire sculptures glow as night falls. D By Cédric le Borgne / 5 – 30 January / cedricleborgne.com

MIDDLE DOCK

LILY PADS

At night lasers play across the water’s surface deflected off mirror strips that clad the dock edge

Change the colour of these floating lily pads

JUBILEE PARK

Water Light Graffiti by Antonin Fourneau

Ice Angel by Cinimod

Codex by impossible

in the park’s water feature by connecting to lilypad.wifi. D By Ela Brunel Hawes / 5 – 30 January / elabrunelhawes.squarespace.com

BINARY WOODWORK MONTGOMERY SQUARE LED spotlights transform a line of trees into a binary clock, marking out the time of day in seconds, minutes and hour through light. D By Raoul Simpson / 5 – 30 January / raoulsimpsondesign.com

CONTROL NO CONTROL MONTGOMERY SQUARE This interactive LED sculpture invites the audience to use their hands and body to animate its sound and graphics.

ICE ANGEL

HACKSPACE CUBED This large

JUBILEE PLACE MALL

multi-patterning illuminated cube reacts to touch screen tablets so you can create your own colourful patterns.

Inspired by the way children (and adults!) create angels in the snow, Cinimod adds a digital twist by giving you the chance to be an ice angel as virtual snow is dispersed when you move your arms. D By Cinimod / 5 – 16 January / cinimodstudio.com

D By Leeds Hackspace / leeds.hackspaced.org.uk

LOPLITE Use a flashlight, stick or a laser as a paintbrush in this interactive drawing installation. D By Digitalarti / digitalarti.com

WINTER LIGHTS WEEKEND

TROIS ROBES Hidden within Jubilee

 FRIDAY 9 – SUNDAY 11 JANUARY,

4 – 8 pm

An interactive family-friendly weekend exploring all things ‘light’. With shining displays, painting, storytelling, and more. Visit canarywharf.com for further information.

Look out for:

Park’s landscape three eerie illuminated dresses float in the dark, changing colour as you walk by. D By Tae Gon Kim / taegonkim.com

WATER LIGHT GRAFFITI Use a paintbrush, a water spray, your fingers or anything damp to sketch a message on a wall of LED bulbs.

PLAYABLE CITY

LIGHTWEIGHT See your face light up in live animations drifting around a 4m high large globe!

CUBITT STEPS BRIDGE

D By Impossible / impossible.org.uk

A playful installation lights up as you cross the bridge, activating bursts of pink fog and creating a magical experience.

CODEX Interact with this animated talking book that hosts more than 1,000 stories and even suggests story lines.

GLOW PERFORMERS On Saturday and Sunday marvel at high tech circus entertainment for the dark! Dramatic and exciting glow performers light up the evening with their fabulous shapes and stunts.

D by Tine Bech / 5 – 16 January / tinebech.com

D By Impossible / impossible.org.uk

D By Warble Entertainment

D By Daniel Iregui / 5 - 16 January / iregular.io

D By Antonin Fourneau / atocorp.free.fr

www.canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

TECH TALK

Essential apparatus for keeping ahead of the curve

VINYL REVIVAL

Hark back to the golden age of audio, with our pick of the best turntables

ROKSAN

nostalgic piece of kit for most of us, the humble turntable is making an unexpected comeback in the digital age. In 2014, annual vinyl album sales exceeded one million for the first time since Britpop’s heyday of the 1990s. As sophisticated high fidelity appears worth investing in once more, Roksan’s Xerxes, an established favourite of vinyl enthusiasts, tops our shortlist. The most recently upgraded Xerxes 20 Plus model boasts a three-stage decoupling design, to isolate external disruption and make for a dynamic sound resolution.

Xerxes 20 Plus PRICE from £4,775 USP High-end classic BEST FEATURE Cuts out background noise roksan.co.uk

External speed controller on the motor drive Main bearing housing is made of solid phosphor bronze Three plinth design structure

CLEARAUDIO

LINN

THORENS

Performance DC

Majik LP12

TD – 203

PRICE approx. £2,250 USP Plug and play ease BEST FEATURE Low noise motor clearaudio.de

PRICE £2,700 USP Perfect first turntable BEST FEATURE Its build and finish quality linn.co.uk

PRICE £550 USP Affordable listening BEST FEATURE A reliable belt drive thorens.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| LIFESTYLE |

CANS FOR COMFORT Beoplay has directed its latest fabric-clad cans towards the most comfort-conscious of audio connoisseurs. Musical quality is rich, thanks to the 40mm custom drivers, but main design focus lays on the headband, designed to adapt to the size of your head after a couple of minutes. A microphone placed by the cheek and angled ear pads also suggests a genuine consideration for music on the move. Good job well done. H2 headphones, £169, B&O Play, beoplay.com

EXPERIENCE CENTRE Tech application company Ideaworks’ Great Portland Street base is like stepping through the looking glass. Disingenuously labelled ‘AV guys’, Ideaworks are versatile innovaters, delivering immersive cinemas, lighting design and patented MeSh touchscreen controls to residential developments and super yachts. ideaworks.co.uk

Typhoon 7kW Electric Bike Ukrainian company Vector is hoping to become a big name among leading electric bike manufacturers. Not letting fitness interfere with a good ride, their vision focuses on speed, power and comfort. That said, the range appears decidedly more concerned with electric add-ons than pure cycling, with the pedal assist system allowing as much help from the engine as you like and a top speed of 50mph.

Wake up Happy with Light Therapy Lumie has expanded its range of alarm clocks to include aromatherapy. Simulating a sunrise, the Iris reduces sleep inertia, making dark winter mornings a little less painful. Bodyclock Iris, £160 Lumie, lumie.com

Typhoon 7kW Electric Bike, £3,500, Vector, vectorebike.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Holden surveyor’s FLOOR LAMP Let there be light, especially in a living space that looks this good. Boasting function and form, Ralph Lauren Home’s Holden Surveyor’s Floor Lamp is available in mahogany and black to accompany the most refined interiors. The design is also available as a table lamp. £1,575, ralphlaurenhome.com

TOIKKA ALDER THRUSH BIRD

GEM TABLES Tom Dixon’s Gem Tables are crafted from nickel-plated aluminium and take on a rather striking, hexagonal shape at two heights. Inspired by the facets of cut gemstones, each table bears sand indentation from the production process.

It’s those small decorative accents that make a house a home, and Oiva Toikka’s Birds collection is testament to this. Individually mouth-blown by expert craftsmen, each piece in the collection is entirely unique and signed for authenticity. £185, johnlewis.com

From £540, tomdixon.net

Winter Warming

HOME Textures contrast and complement when old meets new in an invitingly cosy interior Words: TIFFANY EASTLAND

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

douglas SIDEBOARD An industrial piece with modern refinement, Swoon Editions’ Douglas Sideboard seamlessly blends warm wood with a touch of cool metal. Hand-crafted in Jodhpur, India, this cabinet is made entirely of solid mango wood. Featuring subtle metal accents, cut out handles and a generous amount of storage space, the Douglas is certainly not just a pretty face, ticking more than a few boxes. £449, swooneditions.com

| ART & INTERIORS | HARRIS TWEED MACKENZIE CHAIR This armchair will give even the largest of interiors character. Featuring traditional detailing, including hand studding and hide piping, the Harris Tweed Mackenzie Chair is solid, supportive and comfortable. Made from pure virgin 100 per cent wool, this range of tweed is both timeless and tested, having been put through its paces to ensure it lasts a lifetime. The naturally soft tweed is washed, beaten and pressed to guarantee the smoothest possible weave, which is warm in the winter yet cool in the summer. There’s also a number of different fabric options to choose from.

Alvar aalto vase Alvar Aalto’s classic series of glass vases dates back to 1936, and is now considered a staple in Scandinavian design. The timeless collection also remains the most iconic series in the Iittala range. Each and every vase is mouth-blown in the Iittala glass factory and is available in various colours.

£1,199, bakerandstonehouse.co.uk

£POA, iittala.com

BRONTE MOHAIR THROW Cosy up on the sofa and enjoy the unbelievably soft touch of this Mohair throw by Bronte. Featuring finely-fringed edges, this truly sumptuous throw is a lovely house warming gift for yourself or a friend. Available in several colours, there’s a

Bronte throw for just about any interior. Matching cushions are also on offer to complete your picture perfect living room suite. Now we just hope you have a sofa worthy of such fine furnshings. £85, amara.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

New Kid in the Car Park

Liam Bird gets behind the wheel of the Maserati Ghibli Diesel; Italy’s answer to Germany’s four-door supremos

ake your time. Say ‘Maserati’ slowly. What images fill your mind? Fangio and Moss whizzing around Monaco in 250Fs, or wheel-to-wheel on the Monza banking? Perhaps it’s the Italian manufacturer’s road cars instead; grand tourers like the Quattroporte or the sportier, sleeker GranTurismo, the Merak and the Mistral? Or is it Maserati’s latest creation, the gorgeous Alfieri, named after the founder and unveiled last year to commemorate this motor maker’s centenary? Whatever it is you’re imagining, it’s unlikely that’s it’s either four-door or diesel-powered. And anyway, aren’t diesel saloons altogether more Alan from accounts than they are Alfieri Maserati? Well, maybe not. Maserati’s Ghibli is now available as a diesel – its first in fact. Maserati know its chances of turning 200 are slim if it continues solely as a small volume manufacturer of exotics. That’s why the Ghibli Diesel is aimed directly at the office car park stalwarts from Mercedes, Audi and BMW. Being Italian of course, the Ghibli wears an altogether sharper-styled, if ultimately perhaps not quite as well-sewn, suit than its Bavarian contemporaries. Those delicate triple vents in the front wings, the oval grille complete with its centrally mounted trident badge and those quad tailpipes all hint towards Maseratis of old. But, somehow the clunk when you shut the door doesn’t feel quite as solid as it should. Once aboard you’re in no doubt that the Ghibli is a sports saloon. Trademark deep-set

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| MOTORING |

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| MOTORING |

dials share space with a fine-leather trim, (optional) carbon inserts and a touchscreen that sits centre stage and takes care of everything from the heated seats and entertainment, to the Sat-Nav, trip-computer and Bluetooth. The car will take four people comfortably, maybe five at a push – the transmission tunnel hinders the centre rear seat’s legroom – and the boot will happily swallow everyone’s luggage. Practical, yes, but ergonomically this interior would probably give an Ingolstadt engineer nightmares. And yet there is a certain something about it. It feels flamboyant, and it’s all the better for it. What isn’t quite so racy is the engine note. Thumb the starter and the 3-litre turbo-diesel settles into a subdued, slightly industrial-sounding idle. If you were expecting a high-revving, shrieking power-plant, think again. You do get 271bhp and a very generous 442lbft of torque, but the red line starts at a conservative, even for a diesel, 4500rpm. Compensation is the promise of 47.9mpg. Things get better once on the move. Use the paddles to select your own gears rather than letting the auto-box do its thing, and not only can you avoid the eight speeder’s somewhat dim-witted nature, but you can also make the Ghibli sound its (albeit diesely) growl. The steering feels beautifully direct and midrange acceleration is, shall we say, more than adequate. If you’re brave enough to dismiss the traction control, there’s all kinds of fun to be had. The ride is a little fidgety though; an indication that, ultimately perhaps, the Ghibli is better suited to the autostrada than it is to a British B-road. So, flawed it may be, but the Ghibli offers a rather handsome, and dare I say welcome, deviation from the somewhat sober Bavarian sports saloon norm. What other sub-£50k rear-wheel-drive, V6-powered saloon can you think of that wears such a legendary badge? The Ghibli Diesel may well be a left-field choice, but it will certainly be a discerning one. Alan from accounts has never had it so good.

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Maserati Ghibli Diesel Engine

2987cc. V6 turbo-diesel

Transmission 8-speed automatic rear-wheel drive Power

271bhp / 4000rpm

Torque

442lbft / 2000 – 2600rpm

0-62mph

6.3 sec

Max Speed

155mph

Mpg

47.9 (combined)

CO2

158g/km

Price

£48,835 (car driven £62,593)

Business award achieved

Staff incentivised

New business negotiated

A Private Box at Club Wembley gives your business a space unlike any other. And once it’s yours, you can do whatever you want with it – showcase products, hold amazing presentations or incentivise your staff – 360 days a year. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to get noticed. For more information privatebox@wembleystadium.com or 020 8795 9546

Deal done

Contract renewed

F-ING BRILLIANT Words: Jennifer Mason

BRAKE POWER The Torque Vectoring by Braking (TVbB) function – which is integrated into the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system – selectively brakes the inside wheels, lessening the effects of understeer, and assisting you in taking the ideal line through a corner. It also helps to stabilise the car and minimise steering input during manoeuvres

THE DRIVE The new model boasts an uprated 5-litre, V8, petrol, supercharged engine with 550PS and peak torque of 680Nm

he loins of petrolheads everywhere have been quivering ever since Jaguar launched its controversial ad last year introducing drivers to the delights of the new F-Type. Quite aside from the stalwart British actors doing the voiceover, what had me refreshing my YouTube page time and time again was the throaty roar of the V8 engine as Tom Hiddleston launched it out of an underground parking garage in a manner that ruffled more than a few feathers at the Advertising Standards Authority. I’ve never been a fan of Jaguars in the past. For me, there’s always been something a little too suave, too sleek about their rounded bodywork and middleaged engines. The F-Type, however, practically screams excitement. Unusually for a Jag, there’s no hint of the mid-life crisis around this growling machine. Frankly, it makes me want to rub myself up against its dangerous curves and purr like a cat. This spring, Jaguar plans to extend the F-Type

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NEED FOR SPEED In AWD form, the new F-Type will accelerate from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds, with a limited top speed of 186mph

range with a new coupé and convertible – a decision that comes with a wave of technological advances guaranteed to provoke debate, including all-wheel drive, electric steering and a new dynamic control system to help keep racers on the road. Until then, I’ll be frequenting upscale underground parking garages in the hopes of catching the echoes of its snarling siren call. jaguar.co.uk

| MOTORING |

INNOVATION Jaguar introduces all-wheel drive (AWD) for the new model, which will extend the F-Type’s performance and dynamic capability on all road surfaces and in all conditions

LOOK THE PART Quad exhausts at the rear give a nod to the F-Type’s sporting intent, though the engine allows for (on average) 33.6mpg and produces around 199g/km CO2 emissions

THE FUTURE Moving on from hydraulic-assisted steering, the new F-Type has Electric Power Assisted Steering, which enables even greater precision and feel and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 4g/km

A NICE TOUCH

INTELLIGENT DESIGN

Perfect for the lazy rider, the new F-Type can be started from a smartphone – meaning air conditioning or heating can be switched on before you even get in the car

Jaguar have developed an Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) control strategy that will exploit the maximum performance potential of the AWD traction, while keeping the rear-wheel drive feel

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

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Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Imprint of the Desert Offering guaranteed sunshine and world-class events, hospitality and attractions, Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, might change your mind about the Middle East – just ask 2014 F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, reports George Chapman

‘N

o man can live this life and emerge unchanged. He will carry, however faint, the imprint of the desert, the brand which marks the nomad; and he will have within him the yearning to return… For this cruel land can cast a spell which no temperate clime can match.’ Sir Wilfred Thesiger. Oxford-educated explorer, writer and photographer Thesiger is widely known as the first European to explore the depths of the Southern Arabian Peninsula – spending much of his downtime along a coastal stretch later named the United Arab Emirates. The desert wilderness and its native Bedouin people clearly left quite an impression. Following his two successful attempts at crossing the great Arabian Desert located along the border of Oman and Saudi Arabia between 1945 and 1948, Thesiger became a close friend of the late ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan – the principal driving force behind the formation of the UAE and a supporter of traditional Bedouin pastimes and traditions, such as falconry. Today, a trace of Thesiger’s presence can be found in the form of an exhibition of his photography and scripture within the Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain, built in 1898 and visited by Thesiger at a time when building materials consisted mostly of palm trees, mud and straw. An important town historically for the UAE, Al Ain is located close to a large, fertile oasis that plays a vital role in the farming of palm oil and dates. It is also the location of the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, original home of the former President Sheikh Zayed. The rate at which the UAE (a country consisting

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Ferrari World at Yas Marina

| TRAVEL |

Clad entirely in white marble, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque can accommodate more than 40,000 worshippers at any one time

of seven constituent emirates including Dubai) has developed since its formation and independence of British administration in 1971 is astonishing. The brave pearl divers and desert caravans are, sadly, long gone. Currently one of the world’s largest oil and gas exporters, Thesiger wouldn’t recognise the capital’s towering skyline today. His short stint in Britain’s Special Air Service, however, would surely allow him to admire the predicted capacity of the city’s new airport that is under construction, a facility set to raise passenger numbers from today’s 12.5million to around 40million by 2017. Supplied by the UAE’s expanding national airline Etihad, the UAE is billed by many as the ultimate stopover destination for long-haul flights, such is its geographical position and sheer number of available

flights. Boasting year-round sunshine, very low crime rates and a nation of welcoming, English-speaking nationals, it’s hard to argue. One thing’s for certain, the hotel offering is absolutely imperial; the Kempinski-managed Emirates Palace, built at a cost of more than $3billion, is one of the most exclusive and worth the seven-hour flight from the UK alone. Owned by the Government of Abu Dhabi, the hotel contains 302 guest rooms and measures 1km from wing to wing, it also boasts a 1,000-seat theatre and its very own stretch of private beach. Equally impressive, the bright white Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a symbol of pride amongst local Muslims and is another must-see. Clad entirely in white marble and featuring more than 1,000 exquisitely decorated columns, it can accommodate more than 40,000

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| TRAVEL |

worshippers at any one time. One of the chandeliers in the main hall weighs an incredible 12 tonnes, suspended over a floor covered by the largest one-piece carpet in the world. Visitors are asked to dress respectfully, covering their arms and legs, whilst women must also cover their head. Traditional gowns remain very popular, traditional kandura (white, for men) and abaya (black, for women) provide a daily reminder of the Emirati’s Bedouin ancestry. The Yas Island complex, located around 10km from Abu Dhabi centre, is the epicentre of Abu Dhabi’s leisure industry and a key site in its grand plan for growth. Jida Itani, associate for marketing & communications at Yas Island Destination Management, comments: “We work closely with the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA) on telling the Abu Dhabi story at leading trade events across the world. These events cater to business, leisure and MICE audiences and are supplemented by roadshows and sales missions to existing and new markets.” Amongst Yas Island’s immaculately kept waterparks, malls, golf courses and beaches, Ferrari World is home to the world’s largest prancing horse logo and a host of brand immersion experiences, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster, known as Formula Rosso. Itani adds, “Our global partnerships with leading airlines also ensure strong visitor

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Featuring a Monaco-style superyacht-filled marina and the world-famous Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi Hotel, Yas Island buzzes with glitz and glamour

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT A collection of Abu Dhabi’s myriad skyscrapers; F1 winner Lewis Hamilton at the 2014 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix; The Emirates Palace hotel

numbers to Yas Island as a growing stopover destination; this is in addition to the remarkable increase in capacity at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports.” For one weekend of the year, Yas Marina Circuit hosts a round of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, the biggest event in the calendar. In 2014, Yas Marina was chosen to host the final, title-deciding round in November, which saw Britain’s Lewis Hamilton emphatically secure the title for the second time. Featuring a Monaco-style superyachtfilled marina and the world-famous Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi Hotel, the island buzzes with glitz and glamour during the F1 weekend. After the 2014 race, a 50,000-capacity outdoor concert venue hosted live concerts from Pharrell Williams and The Who (which I can assure you was quite a party!). With the arrival of the prestigious round-the-world sailing event Volvo Ocean Race, featuring local team Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing in December, Abu Dhabi is fast becoming a hub for truly worldclass sporting events. Despite offering a more cultural experience when compared with the more corporate Dubai, Abu Dhabi’s attractions simply cannot compete with the depth of history offered by the Great Pyramids of Egypt or India’s Taj Mahal, for example. But that’s missing the point of this captivating destination – exciting new developments are everywhere in Abu Dhabi. Saadiyat Island, in particular, the city’s new cultural district, is set to house a number of exciting institutions by 2017: a Frank Gehrydesigned Guggenheim museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and a stunning performing arts centre. The Bedouin culture may be difficult for visitors to unearth in modern times, but the Emirati people continue to acknowledge it during their daily lives and Muslim faith. Dignified, proud and intrigued by sport and the arts, they wholeheartedly welcome international tourism with open arms.

UNCOVER HIDDEN TALENTS WITH GINETTA

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Photography by Mike Petch

A Pl ace c al l e d

H o m e

After a year in which the number of people classified as ultrahigh net worth individuals grew by six per cent, The City Magazine takes a look at where the privileged one per cent choose to live. Welcome to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most sought-after private residences Words: Richard Brown and amy welch

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| FEATURE |

Property: 432 Park Avenue, New York City Developer: Macklowe Properties Completed: 2015 Number of units: 104 Starting price: £10.8million

432 Park Avenue, New York city New York has always been a city defined by its skyscrapers, but a new kid on the block is redefining its skyline altogether. Set away from the towering megastructures that characterise Midtown, 432 Park Avenue became the Big Apple’s tallest building when it topped out in October of last year. At 1,396 feet, it stands 28 feet taller than the Freedom Tower (without its mast) and 393 feet taller than London’s Shard. Even more staggering than the building’s elevation and unnervingly pencil-thin form, however, is the fact that it comprises just 104 residences. Prices for the apartments – which begin at 356 feet and feature 10-ft-by-10-ft windows, 12.5-ft high ceilings, solid oak flooring and Italian marble countertops – start at £10.8million and rise to £60million. For that you get access to a private restaurant, an outdoor garden, a spa and fitness centre, a 75-ft indoor swimming pool, library, lounge, billiards room and private screening room. The building was designed by Rafael Viñoly, the architect behind London’s ‘Walkie Talkie’ and the master plan for the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station. No stranger to controversy (see page 44), Viñoly’s latest project has been called a “monstrosity” and “unthinkably extravagant” by the American media. The Mets and New York Fire Department have ruled out adopting it in their logos, while the owners of the Empire State Building have said they will not be adding the

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Above and above right Property: The Charles, New York City Developer: Bluerock Real Estate Completed: 2014 Number of units: 27 Starting price: £4 million

LEFT AND BELOW Property: 10 Trinity Square, London Developer: Reignwood Group Completed: 2015 Number of units: 41 Starting price: £5 million

building to the interactive displays on its observation decks – not that 432 Park Avenue’s new tenants will mind; residents of the building will have their own view of the Empire State Building 150 feet below them. The Charles, New York City New York’s second newest cathedral for the super-rich is the less lofty, but no less wellappointed, The Charles. The Upper East Side project has already broken a price record for its neighbourhood, with its four-storey penthouse selling for £24million. Apartments on The Charles’ other 28 floors start at around £4million for a four-bedroom, four-bath residence sized at 3,630 sq ft. From the outside, this Ismael Leyva Architects’ development breaks from the traditional, pre-war and post-war brick architecture that generally exists in the area of the East 70s. Inside the David Collins Studio-designed pads, buyers can expect to find oversized master suites with dressing rooms, custom spa baths crafted with Bianco Dolomiti marble and floor-to-ceiling windowed walls. 10 Trinity Square, London Ten Trinity Square, once home to the Port of London Authority, has long been lauded as one of the finest examples of neo-classical architecture in England. Recently refurbished as a members’ club, five-star hotel and 41 private residences, the Grade II-listed building is taking on a new identity, now housing some of the world’s super-rich. Through the towering Corinthian-style columns and past the Parisian beauxarts-style lobby, lies The Club, a collection of original walnut-panelled boardrooms. Housing 10 Trinity Square’s cigar lounge, art gallery and business centre, The Club also features an extensive wine store and Château Latour Room, exclusive to residents and members only.

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| FEATURE |

140 Rue de Grenelle, Paris Set on the south bank of the River Seine, Faubourg St Germain of the 7th arrondissement encompasses some of the world’s most exclusive addresses. Within this quartier sits a cultural mecca of architectural icons, from the Eiffel Tower to the Musée d’Orsay. 140 Rue de Grenelle is certainly not out of place in such opulent surroundings. Concealed behind an understated, period doorway lie five expansive 18th and 19th-century residential estates. Each contemporary townhouse in the Garden Wing benefits from a private formal garden, while the apartments on higher levels boast unspoilt views of the Eiffel Tower and golden dome of Les Invalides. For a thoroughly more exclusive affair, the Mansion House has its own private grounds and a separate entrance on 26 Rue de Bourgogne.

Ten Trinity Square has long been lauded as one of the finest examples of neo-classical architecture in England

RIGHT AND BELOW Property: Tour Odéon, Monaco Developer: Groupe Marzocco Completed: 2015 Number of units: 70 Starting price: approx. £4.5million

LEFT Property: 140 Rue de Grenelle, Paris Developer: Mark Shanker and Len Blavatnik Completed: 2014 Number of units: 17 Starting price: approx. £2,250,000

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| TRAVEL |

Property: One Hyde Park, London Developer: Candy & Candy Completed: 2011 Number of units: 86 Starting price: £20,000,000

Property: Palazzo Molin, Venice Renovated: 2013 Number of units: 18 Starting price: approx. £690,000

Tour Odéon, Monaco A magnet for the world’s business elite, Monaco’s compelling coastline and yacht-filled marinas (not to mention its financial benefits) have long drawn the most discerning buyers to properties in the Principality. Five minutes from the vibrant Place du Casino, in a quiet district overlooking the sea, is arguably Monaco’s most prestigious development, Tour Odéon. Architect Alexandre Giraldi has incorporated floor-to-ceiling windows in each apartment, highlighting seemingly endless views of the Mediterranean. Bathed in natural light and offering unparalleled panoramic views of Monaco and the coastline, the Tour Odéon is the epitome of stress-free living. Residential services focus on wellness and relaxation as the private spa suites rival that of any five-star hotel. However, the crowning jewel in this development comes in the form of the Sky Penthouse, spanning five stories, 3300 square metres and boasting its own water slide, it is speculated to be up for sale for £250million. One Hyde Park, London Amongst the redbrick rows of Knightsbridge townhouses sits One Hyde Park, a private residence where grandeur is implied by the name and address alone. Designed by Lord [Richard] Rogers, the development showcases an angled architectural form for maximum natural light and views, without compromising security or privacy. In keeping with Rogers’ urban style, the exterior lighting by renowned artist James Turrell adds a dramatic dynamic to the exclusive development’s entrance. Inside, residential offerings include a wealth of predictably luxurious benefits, from a 21-metre stainless-steel ozone swimming pool. to tailored 24hr Mandarin Oriental concierge services. One Hyde Park’s architectural status is only heightened by its advantageous location. Life in this private and personalised enclave of London is lived from some of the world’s most expensive homes, averaging a cool £6,000 per square foot. Palazzo Molin, Venice The medieval Palazzo Molin del Cuoridoro is something of a rarity in Venice. For all of the gothic architecture teetering over its waterways, Venice’s strict planning regulations restrict most extensive restorations. So when the 32,000-square-foot villa announced a complete renovation into contemporary apartments, serious interest came from the international property market. With original features, five-metre high ceilings and interiors by Milan-based design house CULTI, it came as no surprise that one third of its apartments had been sold just two months after renovation was completed.

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Beckenham 020 8663 4433 Bromley 020 8315 5544

Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Court road, eltham se9

Orpington 01689 661 400 West Wickham 020 8432 7373

£2,750,000 F/h

An imposing Victorian family home, once the former residence of Kate Bush. Built in 1856 and occupying a generous plot of just under an acre, accommodation comprises six double bedrooms, six bathrooms, study, two reception rooms, large kitchen and orangery/diner. Court Road is within 0.3 miles of Mottingham Station offering frequent services into Charing Cross and Cannon Street. Energy Efficiency Rating F.

Please contact our Chislehurst office for more information: Tel: 020 8295 4900 Email: chislehurst@langfordrussell.co.uk

bromley br1

£1,375,000 F/h

beCkenham br3

£950,000 F/h

An exquisite, fully renovated five double bedroom, five bathroom detached home situated in Sundridge Park Village. Within close proximity to highly regarded schools including St. Josephs, Scotts Park and Parish Primary, as well as the sought after Bullers Wood Secondary School for Girls. Sundridge Park station is located within 0.3 miles and provides frequent services into London. Energy Efficiency Rating C.

Situated on one of Beckenham’s most prestigious roads is this stunning four bedroom detached 1930’s family home. Set on a corner plot, this home has been carefully extended and finished by the current owners to provide contemporary and stylish accommodation arranged over three floors. Ideally located for Langley Park schools and West Wickham and Bromley South train stations.

Please contact our Bromley office for more information: Tel: 020 8315 5544 Email: bromley@langfordrussell.co.uk

Please contact our West Wickham office for more information: Tel: 020 8432 7373 Email: westwickham@langfordrussell.co.uk

The Acorn Group, incorporating:

langfordrussell.co.uk

LONDON HOMES &

PROPERTY Covering THE CITY, Wapping, Shad Thames, Shoreditch & Islington

New Year,

New Rules

Stamp duty: how the change in policy will affect you

North West Village, Wembley Park Image courtesy of Quintain, quintain.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

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PROPERTY NEWS

Keep tabs on the market, whether you are living or investing in the capital

SALES ANDREW GROOCOCK, partner and department head at Knight Frank Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the residential sales market By the time you read this we should have successfully manoeuvred through the quietest selling month of the year, and the dreaded December slow-down will be a distant memory of over-eating and drinking. What it does mean is that while there may have been a shortage of new properties coming onto the market and less sales being agreed, the market now has a lot of pent up interest from buyers reinvigorated to get their purchase completed early in the new year. Historically, while Christmas is a slow time for activity in the sales market, it is also a time for a huge amount of behindthe-scenes thinking and reflecting from both buyers and sellers. What this means is that a high number of properties should be coming to the open market for sale and in conjunction with this, levels of applicants should increase dramatically and, as a result, a good market for both buyers and sellers is created. There is no doubt that the final quarter of 2014 became a much harder place for agents to operate in, with prices stalling for the first time in a number of months and sales becoming harder to agree. For this reason it is hugely important to make sure that you choose to work with experienced agents who have an in-depth knowledge of your property and the surrounding area, and as a result are in the best position to recommend your property to buyers. We are always ready to offer free appraisals at Knight Frank and look forward to meeting many of you during 2015 and giving you our best advice to help you both buy and sell properties. Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 knightfrank.co.uk/canarywharf

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Hobnobbing If a kitchen is the heart of a home, it figures to tailor it to your family. La Cornue – family owned since 1908 – is a leading name in luxury cookers. Its bespoke Chateau Grand Palais model is individually made-to-order in the Saint-Ouen l’Amumone workshop, just outside of Paris. You can chose from a range of materials from copper to enamel to cast iron, and personalised hob set-ups including solid brass burners, simmering plates and or electric versions. Matching furniture, from islands to units, are also available to order. Chateau Grand Palais, £26,150, La Cornue, lacornue.com

| HOMES & PROPERTY |

Dubai on Show Thousands of perspective buyers in the UK will descend on Olympia as they look to take advantage of the unique investment and business opportunities that are growing in Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. According to NatWest’s IPB Quality of Life, a global study of British expatriates’ opinion and attitudes to living abroad ranked Dubai as the third most preferred destination in the world. As one of the first of its kind, The Dubai Property Show will run across three days, opening its doors on 27 February. Consultants in property investment, development, construction and financing will gather under one roof to offer expert advice on the Dubai property market. Register at thedubaipropertyshow.com

Did you know? The London Legacy Development Corporation, London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police Service have identified enough public land for at least 100,000 new homes in London. (Savills)

The Verreum Virtue Founded in 2009 by Pavel Weiser, Verreum was established to promote Czech Glassmakers’ craftsmanship both in the Czech Republic and abroad. Over the past five years, this successful project has given new life to the traditional techniques of silvered glass making, while adapting design to reflect 21st century trends. Much of Verreum’s success is owed to the team of internationally acclaimed designers that have collaborated with the brand, including the likes of Rony Plesl, Arik Levy, Karim Rashid and Sebastian Bergne.

LETTINGS CHRISTOPHER PAXTON, lettings manager at Knight Frank Canary Wharf, comments on the trends in the residential lettings market As the Christmas lights dim and the roast Turkey seems like a distant memory, we make plans to start our new year’s resolutions. We remember from years passed what an exciting time it is within the lettings market for the final quarter of the financial year, and how quickly the rental market bounces back after the festive break. The final four months of 2014 saw ups and downs in the market with a very strong September and October, but strangely a slower pace in November to what we are used to. Serious applicants remained active in December with tenancies still being agreed as the last Christmas presents were wrapped. Stock levels continued to be low, but applicant levels were bursting from the seams giving our landlords a great opportunity to test the market and push prices a little higher. Recently, we have seen investors settling down now that the sales market has slowed and their portfolios are coming back to the lettings market due to the fantastic yields that are being achieved throughout E14, especially in the Core and Prime markets. In fact, we have seen an increase in new investors being attracted by some of the highest yields in London. Although the rental market in 2015 looks promising, it is still important that landlords instruct the right agent that can give the right advice and secure a corporate tenant at the correct rental quickly. We have all seen great apartments sitting idle and looking pretty on property portals with no activity as the price set was too high. Landlords must be realistic with their pricing and must look at the facts; rents for the last three months increased 1.4 per cent, not 14 per cent. Knight Frank remains the agent of choice for corporate tenants and investor landlords in the Docklands area. If we can be of assistance in 2015, please feel free to contact us. Knight Frank Canary Wharf 020 7512 9966 knightfrank.co.uk/canarywharf

verreum.com

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

115

KnightFrank.co.uk

North Side Wandsworth Common, SW18 Direct access to Spencer Park

A magnificent double fronted detached family house, 72ft south west facing garden directly overlooking Wandsworth Common. 6/7 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite), 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, dressing room/bedroom, study, utility room, downstairs cloakroom, cellar, Summerhouse and carriage driveway. EPC rating E. Approximately 419.3 sq m (4,514 sq ft)

KnightFrank.co.uk/wandsworth wandsworth@knightfrank.com 020 7768 0993

Freehold Guide price: ÂŁ5,500,000 (WND130112)

KnightFrank.co.uk

Regal House, Imperial Wharf SW6 Two bedroom flat in Regal House

KnightFrank.co.uk/battersea battersea@knightfrank.com 020 3597 7670

2 bedrooms ﴾1 en suite﴿, reception room, guest bathroom, 2 balconies, 24 hour security and concierge, leisure facilities, secure parking. EPC rating B. Approximately 75 sq m ﴾807 sq ft﴿. Leasehold: 984 years approximately

£995,000 RVR140328

Residnets Journal page 2 Dec 2014

16/12/2014 13:03:27

KnightFrank.co.uk

Barrier Point, Royal Docks E16 Three bedroom penthouse apartment

A wonderfully bright three bedroom duplex penthouse affording beautiful river and park views from a large private terrace. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, terrace, private parking. EPC rating C. Approximately 125.5 sq m ﴾1,351 sq ft﴿ Leasehold Guide Price: £860,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/canarywharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6112

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The City Mag Sales - Jan 2015-crop

12/12/2014 09:53:13

KnightFrank.co.uk KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk

Ivory House, Katharine Barrier Point,StRoyal DocksDocks E16 E1W Two bedroom flatpenthouse apartment with terrace with dock and lock views Three bedroom

Ivory House, St Katharine Docks E1W AAcharming apartment in a popular listed building in the affording heart of Stbeautiful Katharine Docks, full wonderfully bright three bedroom duplex penthouse river and park ofviews original 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen,room, kitchen, lift, porterage fromcharacter. a large private terrace. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception and parking space. Approximately 86 terrace, private parking. EPC rating C.sq m ﴾929 sq ft﴿ Approximately 125.5 sq m ﴾1,351 sqremaining ft﴿ Leasehold: approximately 115 years A charming apartment in a popular listed building in the heart of St Katharine Docks, full of original character. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, lift, porterage Leasehold Guide price: £1,500,000

Two bedroom flat with terrace with dock and lock views and parking space. Approximately 86 sq m ﴾929 sq ft﴿ Guide Price: £860,000

Leasehold: approximately 115 years remaining ﴾WAP140023﴿ ﴾CNW140260﴿

Guide price: £1,500,000

﴾WAP140023﴿

The City Mag Sales - Jan 2015-crop

KnightFrank.co.uk/canarywharf cwharf@knightfrank.com KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping 020 3641 6112 wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7768 0253 KnightFrank.co.uk/wapping wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7768 0253

12/12/2014 09:53:13

KnightFrank.co.uk Empire Square West, Borough SE1 Nineteenth floor two bedroom penthouse

Outstanding duplex penthouse apartment to rent in a highly sought after modern development in the heart of Borough, close to London Bridge. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, reception room, roof terrace and 24 hour concierge. Guide Price: £1,000 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 ﴾TBQ207300﴿

Ivory House, St Katharine Docks E1W

Charming four bedroom apartment with a balcony An outstanding second floor lateral apartment to rent in the desirable Ivory House. 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, balcony, 2 parking spaces. EPC C. Approximately 188 sq m ﴾2,024 sq ft﴿ Guide Price: £1,750 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 ﴾WAQ202935﴿

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an administration fee of £276 will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

ab - lhp full page 2 property page

18/12/2014 12:04:23

KnightFrank.co.uk Olivers Wharf, Wapping E1W

Spectacular warehouse conversion A characterful warehouse conversion on the fourth floor with park views. 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, utility room, parking space, lift and porter. EPC rating D. Approximately 213 sq m ﴾2289 sq ft﴿ Guide price: £795 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 ﴾WAQ167614﴿

Chatsworth House, One Tower Bridge SE1 Brand new 2 bedroom apartment

Flat in the exclusive One Tower Bridge development, set in an iconic riverside location on the South Bank. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen, 2 balconies, remote control lights, comfort cooling, under‐floor heating, 24 hour concierge, access to gym, pool, spa and virtual golf. EPC rating B. Approximately 91.7 sq m ﴾987sq ft﴿ Guide Price: £950 per week

Wapping Lettings KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings wappinglettings@knightfrank.com 020 8166 5366 ﴾TBQ206017﴿

ab - rhp - full page 2 property page

18/12/2014 12:04:09

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savills.co.uk

HERMITAGE COURT, e1w

GULLIVERS WHARF, e1w

Reception room ø 2 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø further bathroom ø daytime porter ø allocated parking ø 98 sq m (1,050 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Reception room ø kitchen ø 3 bedrooms ø 3 bathrooms ø off-street parking ø 184 sq m (1,980 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £740,000 Share of Freehold

Guide £1.75 million Share of Freehold

Savills Wapping mmacfarlane@savills.com 020 7456 6800

TOWER BRIDGE WHARF, e1w

TOWER WALK, e1w

Reception room ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø wrap around balcony ø concierge ø underground parking ø 112 sq m (1,211 sq ft) ø EPC=C

2 reception rooms ø study ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 6 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø 3 terraces ø garage ø 375 sq m (4,036 sq ft) ø EPC=D

Guide £1.85 million Share of Freehold

Guide £4.6 million Leasehold

Savills Wapping twadhwani@savills.com 020 7456 6800

3 4

L L O

1 2

savills.co.uk

LETTINGS LAYOUT ONLY

PAN PENINSULA, e14

EATON HOUSE, e14

3 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø reception room ø kitchen ø further bathroom ø 3 balconies ø valet parking ø 24 hour porter ø on-site leisure facilities ø Council Tax=H ø EPC=C

3 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø reception room ø kitchen ø further bathroom ø guest w.c. ø allocated parking ø 24 hour porter ø Council Tax=G ø EPC=B

Furnished £1,500 per week

Furnished £1,200 per week

+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Canary Wharf ibates@savills.com 020 7531 2522

+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Canary Wharf lbrunning@savills.com 0207 531 2523

BUTLERS WHARF, se1

PRUSOMS ISLAND, e1w

Bedroom ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø 24 hour porter ø views of Tower Bridge ø Council Tax=E ø EPC=B

2 bedrooms ø reception room ø kitchen ø bathroom ø allocated parking ø Council Tax=F ø EPC=D

Furnished £695 per week

Furnished £525 per week

+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Wapping kdabrila@savills.com 020 7456 6817

+ £276 inc VAT one-off admin fee and other charges may apply* Savills Wapping djtaylor@savills.com 020 7456 6826

3 4

*£36 inc VAT for each additional tenant/occupant/guarantor reference where required. Inventory check out fee – charged at the end of or early termination of the tenancy and the amount is dependent on the property size and whether furnished/unfurnished. For more details, visit www.savills.co.uk/fees.

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Varden Street, E1 ÂŁ1,250,000 Freehold Having undergone a program of complete refurbishment with modern fixtures combined with period features, this 3 bedroom Georgian house on Varden Street in Whitechapel is beautifully presented and wonderfully bright. It has good entertaining space, a conservatory and a delightful patio garden. EPC: D

Lamb Street, E1 ÂŁ1,495,000 Leasehold This stunning 3 bedroom penthouse is set on the top floor of Dandridge House on Lamb Street in the heart of Spitalfields. It has 2 terraces offering fantastic east and west-facing views, and comes with a secure double-length parking space. EPC: C

Hamptons City Office Sales. 020 7717 5435 | Lettings. 020 7717 5437

The Circle, SE1 £1,195,000 Leasehold A refurbished two bedroom apartment with a terrace and mezzanine areas.

St. Saviours Wharf, SE1 £1,700,000 Leasehold A fantastic 1,837 sq. ft. three bedroom apartment overlooking the dock.

EPC: D

EPC: C

Empire Square East, SE1 £850,000 Leasehold A two bedroom, two bathroom 862 sq. ft. apartment with views of The Shard. EPC: C

Thames Heights, SE1 £750,000 Leasehold A two bedroom apartment in fantastic condition in this central Shad Thames development. EPC: D

The Cooperage, SE1 £999,995 Leasehold A three bedroom, two bathroom split level apartment in this Shad Thames development. EPC: D

Rosler Building, SE1 £1,800,000 Leasehold A split level 10th and 11th floor new build two bedroom apartment. EPC: B

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Sales. 020 7717 5489 | Lettings. 020 7717 5491

Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Farringdon Road, EC1 £849 per week (charges apply*) A fantastic flat on the fifth floor of this well maintained apartment building. EPC: C

Wood Street, EC2 £750 per week (charges apply*) Stunning brand new two bedroom apartment superbly located in the heart of the City of London. EPC: B

High Timber Street, EC4 £495 per week (charges apply*) Top floor one bedroom duplex apartment benefitting from a balcony.

Friar Street, EC4V £395 per week (charges apply*) An ideal one bed corporate apartment nestled in the heart of the City.

EPC: C

EPC: D

Upper Thames Street, EC4 £395 per week (charges apply*) Stylish one bedroom apartment in this popular riverside development close to Blackfriars. EPC: C

Hatton Garden, EC1 £1,250 per week (charges apply*) Stunning penthouse apartment offering a private terrace with beautiful city views. EPC: B

Hamptons City Office Lettings. 020 7717 5437 | Sales. 020 7717 5435

*Tenant Charges Tenants should note that as well as rent, an administration charge of £216 (Inc. VAT) per property and a referencing charge of £54 (Inc. VAT) per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit www.hamptons.co.uk/rent/tenant-charges

Tea Trade Wharf, SE1 £840 per week (charges apply*) A two double bedroom and two bathroom apartment arranged within a prestigious warehouse development with concierge and gym. EPC: C

Wheat Wharf, SE1 £590 per week (charges apply*) A beautifully presented warehouse conversion with an open plan reception area boasting from wooden floors, exposed beams and brickwork. EPC: C

Vanilla and Sesame Court, SE1 £550 per week (charges apply*) Well presented two double bedroom, two bathroom apartment in the sought after development of Vanilla and Sesame. EPC: C

St Saviours Wharf, SE1 £425 per week (charges apply*) This attractive one bedroom warehouse conversion in Shad Thames boasts wooden floors, a separate modern kitchen. EPC: C

Finland Street, SE16 £395 per week (charges apply*) Stylish one bedroom flat with water views over Greenland Dock and featuring a dual aspect terrace from the reception room. EPC: B

Gainsford Street, SE1 £495 per week (charges apply*) Two double bedroom terraced house with a separate kitchen in the heart of Shad Thames. EPC: C

Hamptons Tower Bridge Office Lettings. 020 7717 5491 | Sales. 020 7717 5489

From first flat, to large family home, and all the doors in between. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re selling or letting a studio apartment, a terraced house, a detached property, a Georgian manor house or a modernist property, we are perfectly placed to help you market your home.

Islington Sales. 020 7717 5456 Lettings. 020 7717 5458 City & West End Sales. 020 7717 5434 Lettings. 020 7717 5436

www.hamptons.co.uk

G503-YOU-NovSales-AD-A4P-Mixed-CTY-ISL.indd 1

Beyond your expectations

10/12/2014 16:43

F566

It’s It’s aa hat-trick. hat-trick.

Voted ‘Best Voted ‘Best Large Agency’ Large Agency’

for for the the third third

year year in in aa row. row. To discuss your moving plans please contact To discuss International your moving plans please contact Hamptons on 020 7265 6595. Hamptons International on 020 7265 6595. www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk

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Beyond your expectations Beyond your expectations

F566-YOU-Awards-AD-A4P.indd 1

11/12/2014 12:24

F566-YOU-Awards-AD-A4P.indd 1

11/12/2014 12:24

The Heron, EC2Y • Beautifully finished studio apartment • West facing balcony • Partitioned sleeping area • 24 hour concierge

• High specification, with comfort cooling • Exclusive residents’ club • Ideal City of London location • EPC rating C

“ A modern and luxurious apartment, on the 27th floor of the iconic Heron development.”

Price £664,995 16-17 Royal Exchange London EC3V 3LL

Leasehold For more information, call 020 7337 4000 or email royalsales@eu.jll.com

020 7337 4000

coming 26 January 2015

JLL.co.uk/residential

St Dunstan’s Court, EC4A • Luxury 1 bedroom apartment • High specification, with comfort cooling • Fitted kitchen with Siemen’s appliances

Price £695 Per Week

• Access to private landscaped gardens • 24 hour concierge • Communal club area • Central location, moments from Strand • EPC rating TBC

For more information, call 020 7337 4000 or email royallettings@eu.jll.com

“A stunning apartment in the brand new and exclusive St Dunstan’s Court.”

coming 26 January 2015

16-17 Royal Exchange London EC3V 3LL

JLL.co.uk/residential

Period property, extensively refurbished just off Harley Street

Matching people and property in London for 150 years.

www.lourdes-estates.com

The Arc, Tower Bridge, London, SE1

Naylor Building East, Adler Street, E1

This is an excellent opportunity to buy a high quality off plan 1 bedroom apartment near the iconic Tower Bridge. The 524 sq ft property overlooks the courtyard is situated on the 3rd floor and will come fully furnished by Hatch Interiors.

Lourdes are proud to offer this two bedroom apartment in the popular Naylor Building development. The apartment features a large main reception room with access to private balcony, integrated kitchen, two ample sized double bedrooms and two bathrooms.

EPC = TBC

£490,000

EPC = B

£585,000

Mulberry Court, School Mews, E1

One City North, Finsbury Park, N4

Lourdes are happy to offer this spacious two double bedroom in Mulberry Court, a charming recently restored school building within walking distance of the City which has been converted into 34 boutique apartments.

An off plan 872 sq ft two bedroom, two bathroom apartment is available to purchase in the prestigious One City North development in Finsbury Park. The property is situated on the fifteenth floor and benefits from two balconies with views towards West London.

EPC = TBC

£725,000

Docklands office: 96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP docklands@lourdes-estates.com I 020 7538 9250

£820,000

Docklands office 020 7538 9250 docklands@lourdes-estates.com

Chandlery House, Gowers Walk, E1

Avantgarde Tower, Avantgarde Place, E1

An immaculately presented warehouse conversion arranged over two floors of this ever popular secure and gated development. Measuring in excess of 1200 sqft, this unique duplex two double bedroom apartment offers flexible accommodation for use as either a live or work unit.

An immaculately presented apartment situated in the ever popular Avantgarde Tower. The property comprises of an open plan kitchen/dining and living area with floor to ceiling windows leading through to a south facing balcony and three double bedrooms. The development benefits from 24 hour concierge, gymnasium and residents lounge.

EPC = TBC

£850,000

EPC = C

Guide price £900,000 - £925,000

Mulberry Court, School Mews, E1

Park Vista Tower, Cobblestone Square, E1W

Lourdes are pleased to offer this spacious 1,440 square foot, split level, three double bedroom apartment in Mulberry Court. A charming recently restored school building within walking distance of the City which has been converted into 34 boutique apartments.

A wonderfully presented 2 double bedroom apartment situated on the second floor of this brand new modern development measuring over 1100 sq ft. Park Vista, developed by the notorious Ballymore is the first new build development in Wapping in over a decade.

EPC = TBC

£930,000

EPC = TBC

£1,375,000

City office: 20 White Church Lane, Aldgate, London, E1 7QR city@lourdes-estates.com I 020 7377 5788

Prusoms Island, Wapping E1W ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this 1st floor 2 double bedroom characterful warehouse conversion. The apartment is accessed via a characterful central atrium and comprises

of lounge, 2 double bedrooms,Wapping recently fitted bathroom, from a secure Wellington Terrace, E1W fully fitted and integrated kitchen with granite work surfaces. The apartment has wood floors and benefits£695,000 underground parking2space. Porterage. closethis to Wapping station and local bus routes. 2 double bedroom, storey house Located set within gated CCTV development. The property has been fully modernised to include double glazing, replacement ceilings, wood floors, , alarm, central heating system operated via remote control, smart phone or internet. Lounge. Fully fitted kitchen. Double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. Garden. Secure Underground parking space. Potential to extend into the loft subject to planning permission. Close to Wapping station and local amenities.

£780,000

Stainsby Road, Docklands E14 ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this spacious first floor, 2 double bedroom modern built apartment. The apartment benefits from a fully integrated kitchen to include double oven, 5 ring hob, washing machine, Dishwasher and coffee making machine. Lounge with double doors leading to circa. 360 sq ft, (34 sq m) covered terrace with views over Tudor House,Tower Bridge, SE1 £1,595,000 Bartlet park. 4 Piece bathroom suite with Wc, Wash hand basin, bath and separate shower cubicle. The apartment is located close to West Ferry DLR and local bus routes 6thproviding floor luxury 2 Double Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Open Plan Reception Room, large balcony. Master bedroom with en-suite easy access to Canary Wharf and the City.

and walk in wardrobe. Modern Integrated Kitchen, Balcony, 24 Hour Porter by Harrods Estates, Residents Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Lifts to all floors. Close to Local Shopping Facilities, Walking Distance to London Bridge.

£460,000

Hermitage Waterside, West Wapping E1W ea2 are pleased to offer to let this top floor 1 bedroom modern built apartment within this West Wapping location. The apartment benefits from separate fully fitted kitchen,

Lounge withMews, balcony and views of Hermitage Basin. Double bedroom with fitted wardrobes. Allocated parking space. Close to St Katharine’s Dock and Tower Hill Stations. Roding Wapping E1W £1,300 per week

ea2 are pleased to be able to show you this 6 bedroom 4 bathroom house for rental with a garden. This property is a very unique property and has views over the canal. Would suit 6 professional people. Close to Tower Hill and Wapping Overground and close to Waitrose.

£425 per week

Quayside House, Docklands E14 Ea2 are pleased to offer to let this 2nd floor apartment offering 3 double bedrooms, en-suite to the master bedroom with guest bathroom. Large open plan lounge/fitted kitchen, with marble top island and built in expresso machine. The property benefits from floor to ceiling dual aspect windows. Balcony to lounge with views of Canary Wharf, Cascades Tower, Docklands E14 £500 per week River and harbour. Residents have use of the communal BBQ garden, tennis courts, gym, swimming pool, sauna and conference room. The property benefits from 24 hour 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom 11th floor apartment within this secure modern development. Comprising a reception concierge, allocated underground parking space and visitor parking. The apartment is close to Canary Wharf, South Quay DLR and local bus routes.

room with water/ City views, fitted kitchen, master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe & en suite bathroom, additional £1,250.00 per week shower room. Balcony. Swimming pool, Gymnasium & Tennis court. Concierge.

122 Newgate Street London EC1A 7AA

T: 020 7600 0026 W: www.scottcity.co.uk e: property@scottcity.co.uk

St PAULS, EC1 £565,000 Leasehold

St Pauls, EC4 £525,000 Leasehold

ONE BEDROOM apartment situated on the third floor with secure CAR PARKING. The property is close to St Pauls, the Barbican and the new shopping complex called One New Change with its many bars and restaurants.

ONE BEDROOM apartment in Priory House located in a conservation area between St. Paul’s Cathedral and Blackfriars Station. The property offers one bedroom, bathroom, open plan kitchen and reception room and is situated on the lower ground floor of the building.

Clerkenwell, EC1 £875,000 Leasehold

TEMPLE, EC4 £1,550,000 Leasehold

TWO BEDROOM two bathroom first floor apartment located in the heart of Clerkenwell. The building has a day porter, communal gardens and private leisure centre consisting of a swimming pool, weights room and sauna. Herbal Hill is within easy walking distance of FARRINGDON station.

Luxury TWO BEDROOM apartment situated in TEMPLE HOUSE on Temple Avenue. This flat is situated on the ground floor of the building and has been finished to a very high specification, high ceilings, secure underground PARKING and is close to Temple, Blackfriars the River Thames and Covent Garden.

West Smithfield, EC1 £410 Per Week

St. Pauls, EC4 £415 Per Week

This large style 540 Sq. Ft ONE BEDROOM apartment offers a fully fitted kitchen with full size fridge freezer, dishwasher & washer dryer and integrated microwave oven, and is finished to a very high standard. Available Mid December.

Overlooking one of London most recognised landmarks - St Paul’s Cathedral - is this large second floor, ONE BEDROOM apartment. The property is fully furnished throughout, and includes a small balcony just off the living area and the short walk to St Paul’s tube station. Available Now.

Farringdon, EC1 £450 Per Week

St. Pauls, EC2 £565 Per Week

Situated on the third is this ONE BEDROOM apartment offering spacious entrance hall, bedroom, modern bathroom, reception room with open plan fully fitted kitchen. This building is situated on Farringdon Road adjacent to Farringdon Station, which is ideally situated for the City and the West End of London.

This TWO BEDROOM / TWO BATHROOM property is located on the SECOND FLOOR of the block and enjoys a wonderful dual, SOUTH & EAST ASPECT. Both the bedrooms are double rooms which over look Postman’s park. Other key features include a day concierge and the added addition of water being included in the rent.

London’s London’sFinest FinestProperties Properties Lettings Lettings

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L o Lo Cheshire Street £1,150,000 House SW8 £634,999 Cheshire Street £1,150,000 Kestrel Kestrel House SW8 £634,999 This superlative three bedroom apartment offers an exclusive London lifestyle at its A stunning one bedroom apartment at the highly prestigious St George Wharf This superlative three bedroom apartment offers an exclusive London lifestyle at its most most opulent. With With every every emphasis on design and specification, displaying a fantastic opulent. emphasis on design and specification, displaying a fantastic open-plan layoutlayout boasting floor to ceiling high windows making it a magnificently open-plan boasting floor to ceiling high windows making it a magnificently brightbright and spacious apartment. and spacious apartment.

A stunning one bedroom apartment at the highly prestigious St George Wharf riverside development. This bright and beautifully presented property offersoffers a stylish riverside development. This bright and beautifully presented property a stylish and contemporary specification together with awith sizeable living living space.space. and contemporary specification together a sizeable

LETTINGS APARTMENTS SERVICES LETTINGS MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT SALES SALES SERVICED SERVICED APARTMENTSFINANCIAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CityMag_January_DPS.indd 1 CityMag_January_DPS.indd 1

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liferesidential.co.uk 05/12/2014 16:38

| HOMES & PROPERTY |

Insider Knowledge

How stamp duty could affect you Diana Alam, Head of Development Sales and City Residential Office, JLL

How will stamp duty impact the top end of the property market? At the top end, where transaction costs have just become even steeper, there could perversely be a recovery in market activity. This market has been plagued by mansion tax uncertainty for most of 2014 and if the Autumn Statement does weaken Labour’s resolve to pursue this poorly-designed tax, we may well see a moderate improvement in prime demand during the first half of next year. Notwithstanding headlines of trophy property prices with eye-watering stamp duty charges, the vast majority of activity in Prime London occurs at lower average levels where the changes are more costly, but not more significant than the implied net present value of a proposed mansion tax charge. For example, a £1.5 million property will incur a net stamp duty increase of £18,750, or 1.25 per cent. Do you think the changes in stamp duty will impact the property market in 2015? In my opinion, yes, albeit a modest amount in London. Looking at the average London home at £510,000, the old rules would dictate stamp duty at £20,400, whereas with the new rules we would be looking at £15,500. Nevertheless, the new rules will assist the £250,000–£350,000 purchasers significantly. For example, buying at £275,000 will save you £4,500. This equates to a 45 per cent saving from the old rule. Do you believe the change in the structuring of stamp duty is fair? These changes are all made under the banner of ‘fairness’, where a progressive tax system ensures that the wealthy pay more. The reform was essential, especially in London where buying under £250,000 is certainly challenging and meant the majority of buyers would be paying three per cent and more in SDLT. On the other hand, a £2 million property now incurs a stamp duty charge of £153,750, roughly a 92 per cent increase over 3.5 years. There is now an aggressive push to burden the top end of the market with a greater proportion of stamp duty revenue, but there is something decidedly unfair about such a dramatic rise in the tax burden over such a short period of time. JLL 020 7337 4004 jll.co.uk/residential

142

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Sales and Marketing Suite launches 29th January 2015

Wembley Park

North West Village offers outstanding residents’ amenities, transport links and local leisure. Don’t miss the launch of our exciting interactive Sales and Marketing Suite and bespoke interior designed show apartments. Studio, 1, 2 & 3 bed apartments from £295,000 - £650,000*

www.northwestvillage.com 24 HOUR CONCIERGE / RESIDENTS’ GYM & CLUB ROOM / PRIVATE CINEMA / WEMBLEY PARK CARD / BARS / RESTAURANTS / SHOPPING AT LONDON DESIGNER OUTLET

To book your appointment call

020 7016 3793 NorthWestVillage@savills.com Computer generated image is indicative only. *Prices correct at the time of print.

INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITy

hroughout history, property has proven to be a lucrative and steady form of investment. Unlike the increasingly erratic nature of the stock market and commodities, this tangible asset can offer security for investors, protecting them against currency fluctuations. With that said, not every property investment is sound so it’s worth keeping your options open. This year, we have our sights set on three new developments with more than a bit to boast.

North West Village This month marks the launch of North West Village, a development that will give investors the opportunity to become a part of the growing and dynamic regeneration of Wembley Park. Emerald Gardens is the current phase of the new development that takes a five-star hotel approach to communal and individual apartment specifications. Designed by Grid Architects, this stunning new build features interiors by The Manser Practice and boasts an acre of private gardens, creating a tranquil but well-connected city oasis. In fact, Wembley Park’s outstanding transport links puts you in London’s West End in just 20 minutes and Canary Wharf in only 32 minutes. Offering an excellent selection of studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, North West Village is ideal for investors looking to enter London’s thriving property market. Furthermore, Wembley Park’s industry-leading Residential Team provides complete lettings and management service, guaranteeing high occupancy rates and excellent rental levels.

PRICES FROM £310,000 ( for the next phase, Mulberry House) Wembley Park, HA9 020 7016 3793 northwestvillage.co.uk

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

| HOMES & PROPERTY |

Goodman’s Field Berkeley Homes is bringing a taste of Tuscany to its luxury mixed-use development, Goodman’s Fields. Located in a vibrant area of the City, this stunning new build is inspired by the towers of San Gimignano in the Italian town. Spanning across seven acres, this conveniently located Zone 1 site will offer over two acres of parks and open spaces, not to mention 920 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses, with balconies and winter gardens overlooking a new urban oasis. A piazza and three new urban squares will take centre stage at Goodman’s Fields, providing its residents with access to high-end shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and a new hotel. This is all in addition to five-star resident only facilities, which include a luxury health club, a heated indoor swimming pool and spa, private screening room, state-of-the-art gymnasium, beautifully landscaped boulevard, business lounge and 24-hour concierge.

PRICES FROM £687,500

Goodman’s Fields, Aldgate E1 020 3773 5736 goodmansfields.co.uk

Skyline at Woodberry Down Woodberry Down has announced the launch of Skyline – a luxurious collection of 135 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses. Arranged over 30 floors, the Skyline tower forms the last part of the second phase of the Woodberry Down development by Berkeley Homes. Well situated in London’s N4, the apartments offer breath-taking landscapes of the banks of the New River and West and East Reservoirs. Designed by the award-winning architect Rolfe Judd, Skyline will be the new iconic focal point situated at the heart of the 64-acre site. The residents will enjoy a 24-hour concierge, pool, gym and spa facilities. The well-established Manser Practice has designed the interiors with large kitchen windows, living areas and chic vertical panes in the bedrooms. Woodberry Down is located just a few minutes from Finsbury Park, Islington and Stoke Newington, providing the occupants an array of cultural and shopping options. It also has access to excellent transport channels via Manor House station to the rest of London. As one of the hottest properties in the city, this is a chance not-to-be-missed.

PRICES FROM £447,500

Finsbury Park, N4 2SB 020 8985 9918 woodberry-down.co.uk

THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

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| HOMES & PROPERTY |

Development SHOWCASE

City Living Berkeley Homes is launching what is set to be the most talked-about London residential opportunity in 2015, in the heart of a landmark regeneration area and within walking distance of some of London’s key employment areas, including Tech City and the Square Mile, as well as the fashionable neighbourhoods of Islington and Shoreditch. Designed by Foster + Partners, 250 City Road will include almost two acres of landscaped gardens and courtyards (all of which are fully WiFi enabled), and will deliver 930 studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including penthouses arranged across eight buildings, which vary in size and height. A central plaza will be created with new cafes, restaurants, shops, offices and studio space ideal for start-up companies. The scheme will also feature a 190 bed, 4-star hotel. Residents will have access to a rooftop gym and terrace, indoor pool and spa, a residents’ lounge and a 24-hour concierge. The first phase is launching in January.

Prices from £595,000

250 City Road, EC1 020 3040 6250 250cityroad.co.uk

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THE CITY MAGAZINE | January 2015

Register your interest for the forthcoming launch Located just five minutes’ walk from Old Street, 250 City Road is a landmark development designed by world renowned Architects Foster + Partners. These spectacular apartments and penthouses offer stunning City views as well as a host of residents’ facilities including a rooftop gym and terrace, luxurious 20-metre swimming pool and spa; concierge facilities and residents’ lounge. Two acres of landscaping at the heart of the scheme plays host to cafes, restaurants, retail outlets, creative workspaces and a 4* hotel. Public areas are fully Wifi enabled. The development is located between Old Street and Angel, with the City and Shoreditch on your doorstep. Studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses available Call: 020 3468 5790 or email: 250cityroad@berkeleygroup.co.uk In the last ten years, the Berkeley Group has created 436 acres of public space

www.250cityroad.co.uk 250 City Road Temporary Marketing Suite Goodman’s Fields, 39 Leman Street, London, E1 8EY Open 7 days a week 10am - 6pm (Until 8pm on Wednesdays and 4pm on Sundays)

Here at 250 City Road there will be just under 2 acres of public realm

For Your Future

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Details correct at time of going to press and subject to availability. Computer Generated Image of 250 City Road is indicative only.

250 City Road: ideally placed for work or leisure