FASHION

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FASHION
forward
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fashion
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september 2011
i s s u e 7 4

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contents
feature
13 Happy Birthday...
Annabel Harrison explains why Gucci,
Mulberry, Reiss and Vivienne Westwood
are standing the test of time
16 The Man Behind the Camera
Richard Brown finds out why John Wright
has earned a reputation as one of Britain’s
most dynamic photographers
collection
28 Diamond Geezer
Emma Mills talks to Stephen Webster about
being an artisan and embracing glam rock
concierge
48 The Beauty of Gilt
Essential BodyAmr for the most stylish and
glamorous women
58 In His Shoes
Elle Blakeman meets Nicholas Kirkwood,
the shoe designer with an A-list following
calibre
78 In Pursuit of Glory
Three of England’s rugby stars on what will
prove key to success at the World Cup
comment
88 The Ultimo Dream
Michelle Mone OBE speaks about business
and building the Ultimo brand
connoisseur
100 Formula Fun
Bel Trew checks out the pit-stops of Asia’s
Lion City ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix
In His Shoes
Despite being a much-lauded shoe designer with an A-list following, it’s not
your average man behind the label. As Nicholas Kirkwood opens his new store
on Mayfair’s exclusive Mount Street, he talks to Elle Blakeman about footwear
inspiration, loud music and why women refuse to give up the platform
Photo: Sophie Delaporte
I
“I’m a little bit
‘Mount Everest’.
If it’s there, I want
to do It.”
Y
t’s a stiflingly hot day in London when I meet
Nicholas Kirkwood at his über-chic new store in
Mount Street, Mayfair’s most élite road. He leads
me through the light-filled, airy space stacked with
stunning heels at every turn, as I try not to get
distracted and instead focus on where I am putting my now
rather boringly clad feet (peach cut-out heels, for the record).
We reach the basement of this beautiful Grade-II listed
building, a Geppetto’s workshop of sorts, and Kirkwood
politely apologises for the heat: “We have air-con upstairs in
the shop, but it doesn’t quite stretch to down here,” he says.
I am astounded at how down-to-earth the man himself is.
After all, this is the designer who has won countless awards
in his short career, including the prestigious Accessory
Designer of the Year award at the 2010 British Fashion
Awards; he is the designer openly praised by Manolo
Blahnik for his unique style; and last, but by no means least
in this celebrity-driven world, he decorated Sarah Jessica
Parker’s famous-in-their-own-right feet in her Sex and the
City 2 tour – surely the most watched soles on the planet.
So how did this ordinary man rise up to become such an
insider name in just six short years? The answer, of course,
is that he’s anything but ordinary. Having studied fine art at
Central St. Martin’s and unsure about what direction to take,
the young Kirkwood went to work with hat designer, Philip
Treacy. “Women would bring in these fantastic outfits and I
ou may not recognise the name but if you’re a
regular reader of magazines like Q or NME,
you’ll undoubtedly recognise his pictures.
with a photo-call reading like a Who’s Who
of music, television and cinema, John wright
has photographed everyone from Michael Jackson and Paul
McCartney to Lily allen, Rihanna and Lady Gaga. His
iconic images capture faces we’ve seen a thousand times in
ways that we never have.
away from the world of entertainment, the Glaswegianborn,
self-taught photographer’s lens has fallen upon a list
of household names that stretches from Gordon Ramsey
to Gordon Brown, via sporting starts like Jenson Button,
Kevin Pietersen and half the Manchester United team.
You would, then, forgive the guy whose career began as a
glorified tea boy for a syndication agency for occasionally
finding himself star-struck. But apparently not.
“Professionally? never. which I think might be the secret
behind whatever success you perceive me to have had. I’m
regulars
would try to find a hat to match. At the time there were some
amazing things happening with clothes – McQueen, Hussein
Chalayan – but the shoes were really dull, as if from another
decade. I knew I liked accessories, and I just thought that there
was a lot more that could be done with shoes. So I looked into
a course in London and I ended up at Cordwainers.”
This ‘thought’ paid off, as the industry quickly sat up and
took note of his innovative, architectural designs, earning
him several emerging designer awards. His pioneering
approach to shoe design, and the materials manipulated
to make them, from degradé silks to shaved stingray and
rubberised leather, showed that this was not a man who
shied away from a challenge. So where does the inspiration
for these ground-breaking – literally – designs come from?
“I just sit down with a pad of paper and a cup of tea
and some really loud music”, [electro or rock, if you’re
interested] “and just start doodling. Then I’ll see something
else that will take it in a new direction and eventually at
some point you’ve got to stop and say, ‘Okay, I better
start making them now’.” Does he pay attention to what’s
going on in the industry when designing? “Obviously
I consider the seasons, but I then just do what I enjoy.
When I started out I really looked up to people like Roger
Vivier, Andre Perugia and Ferragamo. They were really
pushing boundaries and doing incredible things, and the
technologies they were using at the time were really new.”
In adhering to the rule that “every
great photo must surprise us”, John
wright has earned a reputation
as one of Britain’s most dynamic
photographers. Richard Brown meets
the man behind the camera
not sure how much respect it instils in someone if, when
you meet them, you immediately put yourself beneath them
by being awestruck. I’ve got as much respect for the people
I photograph as I have for anyone else in the room, but not
any more and not any less.” away from work, John admits
he was awestruck just once, when a chance meeting with
Chris Moyles, whose radio show is a favourite of John’s,
proved enough to reduce him to “a stammering mess.”
who, then, has John most enjoyed shooting? “It doesn’t
come down to the name of a band or the name of an
individual. Musicians are a real pleasure to work with.
Bands understand that it’s a game and they have a visual
personality to go alongside their music. You tend to find
that you pick up a camera and they deliver a persona that
gives you something to work with – the basis for finding
that way of surprising the viewer.” and the hardest people
to work with? “Footballers. It’s just not part of their gig.”
as a ‘celebrity photographer’ (a phrase he despises),
John is commissioned to shoot some of the world’s biggest
11 editor’s letter
27 watches & jewellery
47 fashion
67 health & beauty
69 interiors
Shamone, top left: Ivory knitted silk asymetric drape cocktail dress, pumps as before
Kym, left: Geometric printed silk satin drawstring kaftan (made to order), pumps as
before, pair of gold cuffs
Shamone, above: Floor length silk chiffon dress with stretch metalic printed rayon body
(made to order), gold chain ankle boots with Swarovski stud detail
77 sport
99 travel
111 food & drink
118 out & about
121 property
interview concierge
become increasingly vertiginous thanks to the platform,
the popularity of which had shown no sign of waning until
recently, when Tom Ford declared: “When a woman looks
like she has copies of the Oxford English Dictionary attached
to her feet, it’s time for the fashion pendulum to swing the
other way”. Where Tom Ford goes, the industry follows,
so how does Kirkwood feel about the potential impending
death of the platform? “I’ve been doing that for years but
the problem is no one is buying them!” he says. “There’s
definitely a push from the press and certain designers are
trying to go lower, but the problem is that women have
become used to that extra inch or two and they are reluctant
to give it up. They don’t want to be shorter.”
It is this knowledge of what women want that has made
him so successful. Rather than simply picturing a red-carpetsauntering
A-lister, Kirkwood identifies various scenarios
and personalities, bringing his work to life. “I imagine all
different types of women in my shoes, so ‘the department
store girl’ or ‘the downtown hip girl’. I don’t have a celebrity
muse.” And yet celebrities still flock to the brand. “There
are some really cool women out there wearing my shoes
This desire to constantly create something fresh is – Julianne Moore, Sarah Jessica Parker, Beyoncé…” Does
evident throughout his collections. “I have just been this unaffected designer ever get excited to see his creations
working with the Keith Haring foundation, incorporating being worn? “When I started I thought, that’ll be the best
his artwork into a mini couture collection, [which has thing ever to see someone in your shoes, and then at a party
now gone to exhibition]... Because his shapes are so bold, someone said: ‘She’s wearing your shoes!’”
I thought it would be really interesting to see if you could So, awards, glamour and now one of the chicest shoe
take that artwork and use it in a different way, and not just shops around – with floors designed by Richard Woods, who
on a flat surface.”
Nicholas lived with in his Philip Treacy days: “I saw what
Kirkwood clearly believes that two heads are better he did at the late Isabella Blow’s house and I thought that
than one, with a long list of collaborations behind him. it would be perfect for the shop” – what does rest of 2011
“Shoes lend themselves to collaborations as they are an hold for the brand? “A couple of collaborations will come
accessory to the rest of the outfit, so in a way I’m always out next year, plus we’re bringing out a men’s collection, and
collaborating. It allows me to do something I wouldn’t potentially bags as well. Oh, and we’re going to open a store
normally do in my own collection. So working with Rodate in New York.” “Where in New York?” I enquire; after all,
it could be doing a candlewax heel, or big studs and
Mount Street is fairly hard to top. He ponders for a moment.
spikes. These are things that I would never put in my own “I’m not sure. But it will be somewhere good,” he says,
collection because it goes outside the look I’m trying to get, smiling. I have no doubt it will. n
but at the same time I really enjoyed doing it.”
As any dedicated shoe shopper will tell you, heels have www.nicholaskirkwood.com
59
interview feature
17

contributors...
The Beauty of Gilt
As photographed by John Wright
See p. 48
1. David Kuo is one of the uK’s leading
commentators on money matters. He is a director at
The Motley Fool as well as providing daily insight and
financial news for BBC London’s Breakfast Show.
2. Martin Bamford is one of the youngest and
most successful financial planners in the uK. He
runs his own firm of financial advisers – informed
Choice – and regularly contributes to various
financial publications.
3. Matthew Carter is a London-based freelance
journalist who’s been writing about cars for most
of his working life. A former editor of Autocar
magazine, he is a serial car owner.
4. Clare Murray is founder and managing
partner of specialist law firm, CM Murray LLp.
Clare and her colleagues advise a wide range
of companies, professional firms and senior
individuals on employment, partnership and
business immigration law issues.
5. Carol Cordrey is an art critic and editor
with popular columns in many magazines. Each
year she organises sponsored art competitions
offering attractive prize money and judged by
distiguished artists.
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0207 493 6174

September
from the editor...
People constantly make the mistake
of comparing London with New
York, Milan and Paris and that’s
not what it’s about. London has
its own fashion identity. You come
here to find the next Alexander McQueen or
John Galliano.” If there is one woman in the
fashion industry with whom it is impossible
to argue, it is the indomitable Anna Wintour,
editor-in-chief of style bible American Vogue.
Although similar praise has been widely echoed,
last month London officially overtook New
York and cemented its status as the fashion
capital of the world, according to a study by
Global Language Monitor, which tracks trends
in print and social media.
Anna Wintour is right. London has made its
own indelible, unique stamp on the fashion
industry, as exemplified by style icons across
the decades, from the peerless Audrey Hepburn
to young Brit pioneer Emma Watson via the
widely-imitated Twiggy and Princess Diana.
Two Kates have flown the British fashion flag
on the global stage, in very different ways
but with equally profound effects; the welldressed,
well-spoken Duchess of Cambridge
has championed British designers and a classic,
modest style while the effortlessly chic, cutting
edge cool Kate Moss has been single-handedly
responsible for starting numerous trends.
In tribute to London’s phenomenal fashion
scene and to the new collections debuting across
the world this month, welcome to our Fashion
Forward September Issue. First, happy birthday
to three British fashion houses celebrating
their 40th anniversaries (p. 13): David Reiss’s
eponymous company, with dresses fit for a
princess; Brit lifestyle brand Mulberry, loved
for its Alexa bag and for bringing country
chic to city lifestyles; and Vivienne Westwood,
the eccentric doyenne of Anglomania, punk
and pirates. Happy birthday, too, to fashion
powerhouse Gucci, celebrating 90 years of style.
Fashion is as much about looking forward as
looking back so, in this spirit, Elle Blakeman
discovers more about shoe designer of the
moment, Nicholas Kirkwood (p. 58) and speaks
to the three winners of the prestigious ‘new
generation’ Fashion Fringe competition (p. 61).
For our exclusive fashion shoot, we chose a
brand whose name is more under the radar than
it should be, given that it is favoured by Florence
Welch, Beyoncé, Kylie and Cindy Crawford,
produces utterly gorgeous collections and we
love it. Ladies, this is essential BodyAmr (p. 48).
This shoot was made all the more exciting
because we collaborated with world renowned
photographer John Wright, who has shot
everyone from Michael Jackson to Lady Gaga.
This is another name worth remembering and
Richard Brown finds out why (p. 18). The roll
call continues with fashion powerhouses Chanel,
Ralph Lauren, Burberry, Armani and Bulgari.
What am I investing in this season? Sequins, but
not too ostentatious. Seventies style, but not too
hippy. Leather and lace, but not too risqué. Bring
on A/W11.
Annabel Harrison
Editor

Annabel Harrison explains why the fashion houses of Gucci, Mulberry,
Reiss and Vivienne Westwood are standing the test of time
“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to
do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” Few names are more synonymous with the world of
fashion than Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel. She opened her first millinery shop in Paris 99 years ago, in 1912,
and her influence has spanned a century, bequeathing the fashion industry the iconic linked double C,
the enduringly stylish monochrome palette and the beloved, quilted Chanel 2.55 handbag.
Just nine years after Coco set up shop, a young man named Guccio opened a small luggage store
and leather goods company in his native Florence, with a vision for his brand inspired by London.
This luxury brand, known globally as Gucci, is celebrating its 90th birthday this year and three British
fashion houses are also celebrating anniversary milestones of 40 years: David Reiss’ eponymous
company, propelled to worldwide recognition after being singled out as a favourite of Catherine
Middleton; Mulberry, the Brit lifestyle brand most well known for its iconic Alexa and Bayswater bags;
and Vivienne Westwood, the eccentric, colourful doyenne of punk, pirate and Anglomania fashion.
fashion feature
Happy
Birthday...
ReiSS
40
ViVienne
WeSTWooD
40 40 40 40 40
40
MuLBeRRy
90
GuCCi
13

FIT FOR
A PRINCESS
In just 40 years, Reiss
has grown from a single
store in London to a
global brand with more than 100 stores and just as much
energy and drive as displayed in 1971. Founder David
Reiss recognised a niche in the market for affordable,
premium quality tailoring and opened the first Reiss store
on Bishopsgate in the City of London. Since then, the
iconic, directional and modern brand remains true to its
design philosophy. The son of a City tailor, Reiss effectively
capitalized on the worldwide power and potential of his
brand name, as well as his sharp eye: “If I see something I
like, I can immediately see the bigger picture.”
Reiss has, over the years, continued to broaden
its ever-widening design proposition; 2000 saw the
launch of Reiss’ highly anticipated first womenswear
collection and in 2005 global expansion was
announced with the opening of the first of nine US
stores. This expansion was given a royal boost in May
when the Duchess of Cambridge pledged her allegiance to
the British brand; just back from her honeymoon, Catherine
wore a Reiss ‘Shola’ dress to meet Michelle Obama in
London during the President’s official visit and the Reiss
website promptly crashed due to phenomenal interest from
the princess-loving public.
Always sartorially savvy and equally keen to cater for
the gentlemen, Reiss introduced a Personal Tailoring service
last year, selling made-to-measure suits of Savile Row
quality but with a cost from £550, just £100 more than its
most expensive off-the-peg suit.
David Reiss’ vision continues to propel Reiss forward
and ensures that it expands, evolves and excites; there is no
doubt that the next 40 years will result in as much growth
and praise for Reiss as the past four decades have seen.
www.reissonline.com
GROWN-UP
GORGEOUS
In his younger days,
Guccio Gucci worked in
the Savoy Hotel for a time and while
there he was inspired by London and the refined aesthetic
of English nobility. Upon return to Italy, he set himself the
task of match-making this sensibility with the craftsmanship
skills of local artisans in Tuscany. Within years, word had
spread about this equestrian-inspired collection of bags,
trunks, gloves, shoes and belts. Innovation was high on
the agenda and soon the scarcity of supplies during the
dictatorship pushed this further, resulting in burnished cane
being used as the handle of the Bamboo bag. This saddleshaped
bag became the first of Gucci’s many iconic products
and its popularity has endured.
Almost a century later, the House of Gucci is celebrating
90 years and with it comes the 1921 Collection, an
exclusive range of men’s and women’s ready to wear
and accessories. “I wanted to pay homage to the icons,
craftsmanship and luxury materials for which the House
has become renowned,” explained Creative Director Frida
Giannini. “Each item tells a story, representing a chapter
within the House’s rich narrative history.” Thus the new
Jackie bag nods to the Gucci shoulder bag carried by
Jackie O during the Jet Set era; the classic Horsebit Chain
handbags were originally inspired by aristocratic, horseriding
clients; leather is the familiar protagonist, even on
timepieces; and Gucci green from the archives lines the
inside of the women’s and men’s moccasins.
Immerse yourself in the rich historical past and
modern present of this fashion powerhouse by reading
the hardcover tome entitled Gucci: The Making Of.
Edited by Giannini, the coffee-table essential includes
rare photographs, love letters and original essays
from Gucci stylist Katie Grand
and W magazine’s Editor-in-
Chief Stefano Tonchi.
www.gucci.com

BAGS OF STYLE
Inspired by the cool of the city and
the craft of the countryside, Mulberry
was established in 1971 and the brand
has since carved a niche for itself as
an idiosyncratically British luxury
label. Roger Saul set up the company
in Somerset with £500 he inherited
on his 21st birthday and it went from
strength to strength for three decades.
A boardroom coup in 2002, when Saul
was ousted, marks the beginning of
the shift from respected, small-scale
company to modern phenomenon.
And this phenomenon is all about
the bags. Over the past decade, the
name Mulberry has become almost
inseparable from fashion week front
rows and outfit descriptions of the hoards of women toting
its handbags; from young professionals to A-listers and
leggy teens to stylish yummy mummies, there is no typical
Mulberry bag owner. Everyone else wants one. A catwalk
collaboration with Luella Bartley produced the Gisele bag,
named after the Brazilian supermodel, which gave rise to
the iconic, cult-status Bayswater and satchel-style Alexa.
The ultimate stamp of fashion approval came with victory
as Designer Brand of the Year at last year’s British Fashion
Awards, beating Burberry and Victoria Beckham. Although
designer handbags have historically been of Italian or
French heritage, Mulberry is quintessentially English,
through and through, right down to the practicality of
including a shoulder strap with every bag and
its support of British craftsmanship.
In July, analysts reported
Mulberry as the world’s bestperforming
fashion retail
stock over the past year. By
the end of 2011, Mulberry
will have more overseas
stores than it does in the UK.
This is a brand set to stay.
www.mulberry.com
ANGLO, PUNK AND
ROCK ‘N’ ROLL
fashion
feature
If Kate Moss is the Queen and Kate Middleton
the Princess, then Vivienne Westwood is the brilliant,
ground-breaking Godmother of British fashion. It’s hard to
imagine a London fashion scene without the eccentric, fieryhaired
Dame stalking down the catwalk, dwarfed by six foot
supermodels decked out in her creations.
It all began in 1971 when Westwood and her partner
Malcolm McLaren rebelled against the enduring hippie
trend. Interested in music and memorabilia,
biker boots and leather, they opened a shop
at 430 Kings Road named Too Fast to
Live, Too Young to Die, branded with a
skull and crossbones. Their provocative
t-shirts, ‘rubberwear for the office’
slogan and DIY straps and zips aesthetic
led to the media labelling the look Punk
Rock. The Pirate Collection came next, marking
Westwood and McLaren’s first catwalk show
in 1981, followed by ‘the Pagan Years’, tweedy
collections that parodied the upper class.
The Pirates and Punk phases are testament to
Westwood’s ability to kick-start trends that will
span decades. Today, the pirate flag is still flying
high thanks to high profile designers such as Jean
Paul Gaultier and Alexander McQueen. Punk
lives on in Balmain’s studded, leathery glory, emblazoned
across Henry Holland’s t-shirts and girls like Alice Dellal,
who dresses as though she’s stepped out of the 80s.
Anglomania is a central thread of the brand’s success
although Dame Vivienne firmly believes that fashion is a
combination and exchange of ideas between France and
England; “on the English side we have tailoring and an
easy charm, on the French side that solidity of design
and proportion that comes
from never being satisfied
because something can always
be done to make it better,
more refined.” Too cool to
celebrate officially this year,
we nonetheless salute the
Dame for her outstanding
contributions to fashion. n
www.viviennewestwood.co.uk
15

In adhering to the rule that “every
great photo must surprise us”, John
wright has earned a reputation
as one of Britain’s most dynamic
photographers. Richard Brown meets
the man behind the camera
If it’s there, I want
“I’m a little bit
‘Mount Everest’.
to do It.”
You may not recognise the name but if you’re a
regular reader of magazines like Q or NME,
you’ll undoubtedly recognise his pictures.
with a photo-call reading like a Who’s Who
of music, television and cinema, John wright
has photographed everyone from Michael Jackson and Paul
McCartney to Lily allen, Rihanna and Lady Gaga. His
iconic images capture faces we’ve seen a thousand times in
ways that we never have.
away from the world of entertainment, the Glaswegianborn,
self-taught photographer’s lens has fallen upon a list
of household names that stretches from Gordon Ramsey
to Gordon Brown, via sporting starts like Jenson Button,
Kevin Pietersen and half the Manchester United team.
You would, then, forgive the guy whose career began as a
glorified tea boy for a syndication agency for occasionally
finding himself star-struck. But apparently not.
“Professionally? never. which I think might be the secret
behind whatever success you perceive me to have had. I’m
not sure how much respect it instils in someone if, when
you meet them, you immediately put yourself beneath them
by being awestruck. I’ve got as much respect for the people
I photograph as I have for anyone else in the room, but not
any more and not any less.” away from work, John admits
he was awestruck just once, when a chance meeting with
Chris Moyles, whose radio show is a favourite of John’s,
proved enough to reduce him to “a stammering mess.”
who, then, has John most enjoyed shooting? “It doesn’t
come down to the name of a band or the name of an
individual. Musicians are a real pleasure to work with.
Bands understand that it’s a game and they have a visual
personality to go alongside their music. You tend to find
that you pick up a camera and they deliver a persona that
gives you something to work with – the basis for finding
that way of surprising the viewer.” and the hardest people
to work with? “Footballers. It’s just not part of their gig.”
as a ‘celebrity photographer’ (a phrase he despises),
John is commissioned to shoot some of the world’s biggest

interview
feature
17

stars and yet it’s a world he only entered after a time spent
shooting subject matter at the opposite end of the fortune
spectrum; John is most proud of the photos from this period.
“They were taken whilst I was doing Third World reportage.
I stumbled across a tiny article in The Mirror about a British
girl living in India. After studying Fine Art at university, this
girl had spent a year travelling before ending up in Nagpur,
India, where she started helping out at a leper colony. She
came back to England, sold everything she owned, flew back
and dedicated her life to helping female leprosy sufferers.
“I went out to meet her and in just eight hours was
blown away by the extent to which somebody could
dedicate their lives to helping others. She was literally
going into slums, getting down on her hands and knees and
treating people who had this terrible disease. I spent three
days with her, photographing the hell out of it. I came back
and the Daily Mail, who I was working for, ran a three
page spread about what this girl was doing and told people
how they could donate.”
Calculating how much that appeal raised was easy;
each donation made by a Daily Mail reader was sent to an
incorrect address thanks to a misspelling John had made
in the address under the article. “Until that point, this
girl had been sleeping on a roof top, living on £4,000 a
year raised through her mum’s rotary club. In a week we
raised £85,000.” A year later, Leah Patterson was narrowly
beaten to Woman of The Year.
At the start of a promising career, and bolstered by the
belief that he could do something worthwhile with his
camera, John set forth “to save the world.” As the name
he began to carve for himself grew, so did the charities
he worked for. Unfortunately, for a man determined to
make a difference, the complex parameters in which some
multinational charities are obliged to work proved hard
to fathom. “After a while you realise that some charities
are actually enormous corporate institutions with huge
overheads, huge offices and huge numbers of staff. I’m
not saying that the essence of any charity isn’t anything
but good, but the reality is that I was finding myself in a
country with a charity that would be treating the animal
of a family whose children were clearly, clearly, in more
need. You’re in a country where £1.40 can save someone
from a life threatening disease and just because it’s not
within that particular charity’s remit, they can’t do it. It
just finished me.”
John found it increasingly hard to justify what he was
doing, realising that he was using his subject matter for
photographic vanity rather actually helping people. He
moved into celebrity photography partly as an “antidote”
to what his work had become and partly because that area
had always existed in his mind as being one of the top
echelons of photography. If the images he captured of Leah
are the ones that invoke the most pride, I ask John which
is the most technically difficult photo he’s ever taken. The
answer comes courtesy of an image he was commissioned
to shoot many years later.
“It’s one that doesn’t even appear in my portfolio, it
was such a nightmare. The brief was to capture 14 of the
biggest names in music in one picture that would run in
Q magazine’s January 2010 edition under a feature titled
Artists of the Century. It turned into 34 different shoots
just for this one picture. Having to shoot the subjects on
different days in different cities meant constantly replicating
the lighting positions and the camera positions to the exact
millimetre. In the end, the shot incorporated more than 30
people. We travelled everywhere; London, Manchester, LA,
New York, Berlin. It took up a year of my life. A fantastic
project but never, ever again.”
In this age of international interconnectedness, John could
operate from anywhere in the world. So why does he work in

Overleaf:
Rihanna
Left to right:
Lady Gaga; Lily Allen; Paloma Faith;
fashion shoot; Kara Tointon
interview
feature
London and why, in particular, out of a recently refurbished
railway arch in Shoreditch? “I chose London because it has
become home. I’m not a penthouse living type of guy. I have
a family in the suburbs who I return to every night and who
I drop off to school most mornings. And Shoreditch because
that’s the first place I get off the train.”
That may be so, but surely the reputation of this part
of East London as a Mecca for indie fashionistas and
alternative music lovers hasn’t been lost on someone who
spends their time photographing some of the planet’s most
recognisable rock stars? “It has sort of come up around
me,” John explains. “We’ve been here, or hereabouts,
since before the ‘Shoreditch boom.’ We recently had the
opportunity to move but I chose to stay in Shoreditch; it’s a
fascinating place to be. From the absurdity that is the roof
top pool we’re sitting beside to the gentlemen alcoholics
who sit outside the skate shop on Bethnal Green Road.
You see it all; the little Asian boys patrolling in their gangs,
the rich, the famous, the wannabees. I was walking to the
studio the other day and passed this guy on the corner of
the street taking a hit on his crack pipe. It was just heartbreaking.
But it’s always changing. I think Redchurch
Street will become one of the streets in London. I think it’s
going to be the new Floral Street in a few years time.” This
is coming from a man who certainly knows what’s cool
– John speaks from behind mirrored aviator shades atop
Shoreditch House, cigarette in hand – I can definitely take
his word for it.
Listening to the acclaimed photographer talk about his
profession, it’s clear that he still gets an incredible buzz
from doing what he does for a living. He admits that if he
were ever to be stopped in his tracks by the thought ‘Wow,
I’ve made it!’ then that would be the time to “go off and
do something else.” Luckily, John’s constant ambition to
portray new subject matter in new lights will ensure that
doesn’t happen anytime soon. “I’m certain I’ve got the best
job in the world,” he says. And the best part? “I get to tell
really famous people to do silly things like star jumps and
to jump through hoops!” n
www.johnwrightphoto.com
19

THE POWER OF PRESENCE
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– 129 G/KM.

The Eco Fashion Party
Eco fashion consultant Elizabeth Laskar
explores if the way we are buying clothes
is changing, affected by a wave of fashion
innovation which is inspiring consumers,
designers, retailers and manufacturers
current affairs
With the rise of ethical fashion brands
and widespread adoption of ethical
policies, it seems we are at the start
of a sea change. A quick browse on
the internet brought up an article
by Oprah Winfrey declaring, “No more hemp sacks!
Eco-clothing used to be like high-fibre cereal – crunchy,
healthy and a little boring. Now it’s possible to do good
and look good.” Oprah is not the only one who has
realised the extraordinary growth, benefits and feel-good
factor of eco-fashion; over the last ten years I have seen
eco fashion become sophisticated, desirable and preferred.
This month, London explodes into a frenzy of catwalk shows
and parties at London Fashion Week. Buyers and media from
all over the world come to see the brands that London Fashion
Week represents. But there is something extraordinary about
LFW because it has set the global benchmark for eco fashion
design. Over the last five years it has pioneered change in the
global fashion week circuits by offering the world some of the
best eco fashion brands in a dedicated area called Estethica.
feature
21

feature
22
current affairs
The ground-breaking Estethica has been curated by the
British Fashion Council together with the award winning
duo Orsola de Castro and Filippo Ricci, from the eco
fashion brand From Somewhere. There has been a palpable
sense of excitement in walking around Estethica, talking to
designers and understanding the story behind each piece of
clothing; you walk away after an unforgettable experience
feeling a deeper connection to your clothes.
The UK has always been at the forefront of pushing
creative boundaries in design and continues to lead in trends
so perhaps it is not a surprise that London Fashion
Week has taken the leap with eco fashion. With
Harold Tilman CBE (Chairman of the British
Fashion Council), Livia Firth and the crème de la
crème of eco fashion designers and media from the
UK, Estethica celebrated its fifth year this May – it
was a party not to be missed.
This season we will see some newcomers at Estethica
including an eco-lingerie and lounge wear brand called
Charini. Using hand woven silks from the foot hills of Kandy
in Sri Lanka and Beeralu lace, which has been hand crocheted
by a small community of artisans, the collection is not only
celebrating heritage crafts but also helping to keep Beeralu
craft alive in a modern industrialised culture. Each stitch is
carefully made with knowledge that has been passed down
from generation to generation; what the consumer is purchasing
is essentially a piece of history as well as luxury. What is even
more exciting about Charini is that she has designed her
collections to eliminate all wire, plastics and moulding by using
clever design methods to give the wearer’s body support. The
pieces are simply exquisite and ooze sophistication.
Another inspiring story for the fashion season is the
home grown veteran of design, Vivienne Westwood, and her
collaboration with the International Trade Centre’s Ethical
Fashion Programme of the United Nations. On her recent
visit to Africa, Westwood designed a new line of bags and
accessories made from carefully selected recycled materials and
hand made in Kenya by marginalized communities of women.
As pictured here and overleaf, the products are stunning, well
made and fun while at the same time making a positive impact
on poverty through trade. This is a success story in fashion
and one that will be told by the customer, time after time – it’s
a story that wants to burst out of you when you wear it, as it’s
almost impossible not be inspired by this luxury fashion from
Africa designed by Vivienne Westwood.
Leading up-cycling brands From Somewhere
and Junky Styling have championed the way for
other designers and retailers to design and produce
collections with luxury recycled materials. Award-winning
brand From Somewhere uses the most exquisite cashmeres
and tweeds from Italy to produce timeless pieces for its
customers. The brand works and trains a cooperative in
Italy to produce the pieces while a design studio in the UK
brings innovation, creative design and pattern cutting to
the mix, making each piece is interesting, extraordinary
and unique. Speedo has been so impressed with the
innovation that it approached From Somewhere and in
collaboration has produced a collection of dresses made
out of Speedo swimsuits.
The eco fashion arena is full of innovation and creativity,
offering designers and retailers the opportunity to experiment
in developing new materials and design concepts. Whether
working with a scientific team to create new bio-degradable
fibres or working with unused textiles, the fashion sector can
actively support sustainable livelihoods.
As a celebrated voice of eco fashion, Livia Firth recently
accompanied her husband, Colin Firth, to the Oscars wearing
a beautiful dress created by UK designer Gary Harvey, a
stalwart at Estethica. This show-stopping gown was made
from 11 unworn vintage dresses, Livia looked stunning and
this in turn showed the world that fashion is changing.
I have focused on success stories and shared some of
the good news within the eco fashion sector. However, it
is important to fully appreciate that the challenge runs
deep and wide and there are still mountains to climb in
addressing the widespread misuse of natural resources,
exploitation of labour and the vast production and
disposal of waste. Eco fashion is positively addressing
many of these issues and tirelessly continues to roll the
stone up the hill – as an inspirational movement we can
enjoy making fashion responsible together.
The eco fashion story moves apace and is here to stay.
In a nutshell, eco fashion is environmentally and socially
conscious fashion, design-led and durable. The last decade
has seen trail-blazing pioneers set the path for the industry
to follow. Individuals, celebrities, designers, retailers and
manufacturers are now all stepping up alike; perhaps it is
about time we all joined the party. n
info@elizbethlaskar.com
www.ethichic.co.uk
www.ecostyleagency.com

190 years after the
invention of the
chronograph, Montblanc
pays homage to the art
of time measurement
with the Nicolas Rieussec
Horological TimeWriter
The TimeWriTer
In 1821 a French watchmaker was tasked by
his King with inventing an instrument that
would record the exact times run by horses
in a race and Nicolas Rieussec succeeded,
creating the world’s first chronograph.
190 years later, in 2011, Montblanc is celebrating
that invention with the exquisite Nicolas Rieussec
Horological TimeWriter anniversary set.
Encased in a glass dome, the 19 kilogram
table-top chronograph remains true to Rieussec’s
early designs by employing a push button
mechanism and rotating disks to act as a stop
clock, while Montblanc’s watch-winder keeps
interview.............................sTephen WebsTer
feature...............................................WaTch classics
trends.........................................neW collecTions
watches powered by an electric motor (produced
by a company commissioned by NASA to provide
motors for Mars expeditions). Completing the
set is a limited edition 18 carat rose gold version
of the Nicolas Rieussec Chronograph Automatic,
a collection that caught the imagination of the
watch industry, when it launched three years ago,
by measuring instances of time with rotating disks
rather than conventional rotating hands.
If you’re harbouring visions of the TimeWriter
on your mantle-piece, join the queue. Only 19
of the set were made and many were snapped up
immediately after the launch earlier this year. n
25

collection
news
SwISS EXPoRtS SoAR
While some luxury sectors continue to struggle
with the effects of the recession, the watch industry
is going from strength to strength. Exports of
high-end Swiss-manufactured timepieces in the first
half of 2011 recorded a 19.3 per cent increase on
the same period a year earlier. A figure that places
the sector above 2008’s previous benchmark result,
One to Watch:
the value of Switzerland’s watch export industry
between January 2011 and June 2011 stood at
almost £6.8 billion. While all of Switzerland’s
watch export markets witnessed a positive trend,
it was Hong Kong that placed the highest order,
followed by USA and China.
SoURcE: fEDERAtIon of thE SwISS wAtch InDUStRy`
Each month Sandy Madhvani, Showroom Manager at David. M. Robinson in
Canary Wharf, selects his favourite watch from the newest models
“TAG Heuer’s stunning Monaco V4
features the world’s first patented belt-
driven transmission in a watch movement.
Just one of the things that make the watch
well worth its price tag.”
tAG t hEUER monAco V4 nEXt GEnERAtIon In
RoSE GoLD, RRhUtEnIUm
AnD cERAmIc, £70,000
AVAILAbLE At DAVID m. RobInSon, JUbILEE PLAcE, cAnARy whARf
watches
collection
Three of the Best…
LADIES wAtchES
J12 chRomAtIc
DIAmonDS EDItIon
chAnEL, £PoA
www.chAnEL.com
DIAmonD LInk wAtch
In whItE GoLD
RALPh LAUREn, £121,000
www.RALPhLAUREnwAtchES.com
RoADStER whItE GoLD
wAtch, DIAmonD EDItIon
cARtIER, £PoA
www.cARtIER.com
27

Diamond
Geezer
Stephen Webster’s cutting edge gems shook up a previously
traditional industry, injecting a dose of much needed glamour
and rebellion. Emma Mills talks to him about being an
artisan, embracing glam rock and why he has to live by the
sea. With exclusive images by Sarel Jansen
Visiting Stephen Webster’s jewellery store in
Beverly Hills is a unique experience, and
perhaps the best demonstration of the kind
of kudos and glamour that encapsulates the
brand. Part bar, part shop, part art gallery,
it is a fitting showcase on for what is now an iconic lifestyle
brand. “I’d like to have some more stores like the one in
Beverly Hills,” explains Stephen at his Mayfair offices. “It’s in
an iconic location [Rodeo Drive]. Our bar and lounge is called
No Regrets, I show art that I like and have musicians and DJs
that interest me and we have evenings with 300 people spilling
onto the pavement enjoying the atmosphere. And it’s great; it’s
turned into something else. It’s still come out of the jewellery
but it’s taken the brand to another place.”
The Stephen Webster brand is indeed a vital force in the
world of jewellery and as Stephen will attest, the people
buying his jewellery subscribe to the lifestyle associated with it.
Stephen’s glamorous, rockstar life has been well-documented,
but, as he says, that’s okay, because it is the biggest driving
force in his design. “My life is completely an inspiration for
what I do and what I create. You apply what you like in life
to what you do. Otherwise it’s all a bit fake; you’d be making
it up. So, everything I do, even the collaborations with other
brands, is driven by the things in my life that I love.”
He points to a bespoke Harley Davidson petrol tank
nestled on a windowsill amidst photos of the various
personalities and celebrities he’s designed jewellery for. “That
completely came together because of the kind of lifestyle I
have and the people I meet. We were one of the first brands
that made a launch a real party, you know, a good night out.
Now brands work with us because they want to buy into the
image that comes with the brand.”
Clearly business is booming. But it wasn’t always this
way. As with any brand that brings something aggressively
different and new to the market, it has taken many years of
working and waiting for the success that Stephen and his

team now enjoy. “When I first tried to sell my jewellery here
22 years ago there was no place for it. I’d go into jewellers
to show them my work and they wouldn’t know what to do
with it.” Things did eventually change in Britain, but, despite
his proudly British roots, the first part of Stephen’s career was
focused across the pond in the US and Canada.
Having left school at 16, unsure of what he wanted to do
but knowing he was creative and loved fashion, Stephen came
across jewellery and decided then and there that it was to be
his craft. “It just looked like what I’d always imagined I’d be
doing; it made sense, making things and using my hands. I’d
loved the small amount of stuff I’d done at school which was
hands on, and I knew I could do this. And that I was going to
be the best. And in some ways I have made that happen.”
Finishing a jewellery apprenticeship, Stephen moved to
America to work for a jeweller who spent his days scouring the
globe for some of the best gems in the world. He first worked
in Canada for four years, until the business moved to Santa
Barbara in California, which was to provide the inspiration
behind his now iconic, bold designs. “I developed my style
there, and taught myself to be a designer. Santa Barbara was
full on and very exciting. I was getting the opportunity to
work with amazing stones – things like savarites, tanzanites
and tourmalines – they weren’t normal. The business then
was all diamonds, pearls and sapphires. Being able to work
interview
collection
with something new and being in such a vibrant place gave me
confidence in myself as a designer and a jeweller.”
Things were going well, and in 1989 Stephen decided to
return to London to bring his jewellery home, but found
a traditional marketplace that simply wasn’t ready for his
bold, colourful work. And so began ten years of working in
London and selling his jewellery in America. “It was strange.
There was only a few of us, we were a tiny little business
and we’d make jewellery, flog it, and repeat. But I wasn’t
building my brand or my business particularly.”
Strangely, despite the fact that Britain wasn’t ready for
Stephen’s jewellery, it was exactly his Britishness that made
him a success in the US. “We did our first show in Las Vegas.
And it was incredible. We had a product that was right for the
market and no one else was doing it. It was quite British in
a way; we were cheeky,
bold and had an attitude
in a world that had no
attitude, just prestige
and snobbery!” Stephen
later says this show
was one of the defining
moments of his career, a
celebration of a decade
of work and recognition
Rayman Rayskin Ring
29

collection interview
Left to right:
Crystal Haze Helix
Marquise Ring with
Green Agate
Murder She Wrote
Poison Apple Ring
Jewels Verne Caged Cuff
30
from a market that had supported him throughout those
early years.
For a time, American success was enough, but the tide
was turning and Stephen knew it was only a matter of time
before Britain woke up. In 1995 renowned jewellery house
Garrard gave Stephen a show, which he says was the first
sign of anyone in Britain showing any interest. “In some
ways we were ready for when the rest of the world began
to embrace jewellery as the next thing in fashion. By that I
mean that it became fashionable to wear jewellery again. By
then my style was edgy, inspired by tattoos and rock ‘n’ roll -
the press got hold of me, because they needed characters and
a story, and things started to shift. Since then it’s felt like we
are trying to run to keep up.”
Despite this mushroom effect on his business, and the
fact that he now boasts a team that includes a designer
from Chanel’s own jewellery house in Paris and graduates
from the Royal College, Stephen refuses to stop being
involved with design. “If I’m not involved people will know.
There’s something in the DNA and you can get it right or
wrong, and that’s the challenge.”
It’s now 16 years since Stephen’s
first show in London and he is still
credited as one of the great jewellery
innovators, working with new materials,
designing new techniques and being at
the forefront of a trend that has seen a
massive upsurge in jewellery for men.
“It was a really conscious choice to get more men wearing
jewellery. For a long time there were few places for a guy to
look at a whole collection, all that was on offer to us was
cygnet rings, cufflinks, pens and some other hideous things!
I launched the Ray Man collection which got a lot of press,
and then another collection using iron which our male clients
went mad for. It pushed enough boundaries but offered
something men really loved to wear. And I think that’s where
a lot of our success has been, understanding our clients. Men
are loyal; once you’ve got them as a client they don’t stop
buying things, they get right into it and buy into the lifestyle
you’re offering. They’re the perfect clients really!”
Stephen didn’t stop pushing the boundaries there, crediting
his unique Crystal Haze collection as not only his favourite,
We were cheeky and
bold and had an
attitude in a world
that had no attitude
but a vital chapter in his life. Crystal Haze is, essentially, a
technique that Stephen invented and has used to great effect.
The process involves layering a stone under another stone, to
make it look bigger. “The concept is extremely old, dating back
to the Victorian era, but the way I used it was very new. And
I suddenly had something no one else had,” explains Stephen.
“It changed everything for us. It felt really rock ‘n’ roll, like an
illusion. I was credited with reinventing the cocktail ring, which
set off something in New York, then Madonna had one, and
then Crystal Haze became a whole collection.”
These days Stephen is still designing some of the most
imaginative and exciting collections around; you only have
to look at his latest Murder She Wrote range to see its genius
lies in his playful and subversive streak. Then there’s the other
side of his focus, his role as creative director of Garrard which
sees him working with an established name as custodian of the
brand. “It’s been really cool being part of that, especially since
they gave me my first show in the UK. And something as old
and respected as Garrard comes with a clout which is different
to my brand – and it’s been exciting watching it develop.”
A busy man, then, but Stephen’s home
life, split between Marylebone and the
Kent coast, offers a place to get away and
find new inspiration. “I love London - my
walk to work has got to be one of the best
walks to work in the world, from my flat
on Monatgue Square down to Mayfair.
But my home is Kent. I have to be by the
sea. It’s my second biggest inspiration, its rich blue colours,
and its changeable nature – it has a really strange influence
on my work and I love it. I wake up and can see France from
my window, it’s magic.”
Stephen clearly finds inspiration everywhere and perhaps
most pertinently is still moved and motivated by the rich
history of his industry. “When you think about Lalique
or Cartier, these people were incredible – you look back
through their body of work and get a bit blown away by it.
And I love the way that a jeweller in history has been looked
at differently over the years. Do you know that in Saxon
times the craftsmanship was so incredible, that they’d cut the
jeweller’s Achilles tendons so he couldn’t leave? It was better
to cripple a jeweller than lose him!
“Even these days, people like my good friend Turkish
designer Sevan Bicakci, amaze me. His headquarters in
Istanbul are like an old jewellery house, this
incredible building full of artisans. I
love it when I see something that’s a
combination of incredible design
and craftsmanship, – because
jewellery has got to be both.
You can be the best designer
in the world, but it’s only
half the story. Jewellery is a
craft; we’re not artists,
we’re artisans.” n
Stephen Webster
jewellery is exclusively
available at Charles
Fish, Cabot Place
www.charlesfish.co.uk

THE
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collection jewellery
32
1
2
3
6
GLAM
rock
Don’t be afraid to make
a gorgeously gold
statement this season with
snakeskin, skulls, chains
and leather
8 9
10
1 Gold tone Florentine style pendant, from a selection of Chanel pendants, £750 to £1050, Susan Caplan Vintage Collection, www.susancaplan.co.uk
2 For The Queen pyrite drop earrings, £200, Isabel Marant, www.net-a-porter.com 3 1980s vintage Medusa cuff, £995, Versace, Susan Caplan Vintage Collection, as before
4 18 carat gold horsebit earrings, £1920, Gucci, www.gucci.com 5 B.ZERO1 4-band ring in 18 carat pink gold with black ceramic, £700, Bulgari, www.bulgari.com
6 Mixity brass metal/resin choker in black, £735, Yves Saint Laurent, www.ysl.com 7 Gold-plated Swarovski crystal elephant ring, £260, Roberto Cavalli, www.robertocavalli.com
8 ‘Dark Mist’ 24 carat gold and black diamond earrings, £2,275, Gurhan at Harrods, www.harrods.com 9 Snakeskin and brass wrap bracelet, £190, Alexander McQueen, www.net-a-porter.com
10 Life ring in 18 carat yellow gold with white or yellow gold rope, ladies version £2,000, Asprey, www.asprey.com
7
4
5

DIAMOND COLLECTION
CLASSIC JEWELS • DIAMONDS • FINE WATCHES
FOR LIFE'S EXCEPTIONAL OCCASIONS
18-19 BURLINGTON ARCADE, LONDON W1J 0PW T: +44 (0)207 499 7644
WWW.HEMINGJEWELS.COM

collection men’s luxury
34
2
5
4
3
1
PrePAre for
Autumn
Get smart this season as prep-inspired
looks return to our streets. Stay dapper with
brogues, braces and bowties
6
1 Image courtesy of Ralph Lauren 2 Full grain leather messenger bag, £285, Bill Amberg, www.mrporter.com
3 Stripped braces in red and navy, £75, Brookes Brothers, www.brooksbrothers.com 4 Steel cufflinks with polished finish, £89, Emporio Armani, www.emporioarmani.com
5 Plaited leather belt with metal prong buckle fastening, £165, Mulberry, www.mrporter.com 6 Marron brown brogue bourton shoe, £340, Tricker’s, www.my-wardrobe.com
7 Sheldrake vintage sunglasses in red havana with cosmik tone, £215, Oliver Peoples, available at David Clulow, Jubilee Place
8 Portuguese Automatic wristwatch, £POA, IWC, David M. Robinson, Jubilee Place 9 McQueen tartan bow tie, £110, Alexander McQueen, www.alexandermcqueen.co.uk
9
8
7

Above:
Hermes Temps
Suspendu
Right:
Chopard Happy
Sport Oval
in 18 carat rose gold
Watch Classics
Swiss watches have become more pared-down and traditional lately but
what makes a watch a classic? Claire Adler talks to the experts
Elle Macpherson and
Jennifer Aniston
can often be found
brandishing their
man-sized Rolexes,
while tennis ace Maria Sharapova
was attached to her Tag
Heuer Carrera throughout
Wimbledon this year.
Viscount David Linley,
chairman of Christie’s
UK, is such a fan of
watches that he
sells handmade
storage cases for
serious collectors,
while property
mogul Nick Candy
has a penchant
for Rolex, Hublot,
Audemars Piguet
and number eight
in limited editions.
But with thousands of
different watches on the
market, what’s at the heart
of a watch classic?
Iconic watches tell great stories
that we love to re-tell. This year
sees Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrating
the 80th anniversary of its classic
Reverso. The watch was created
in 1931 after British officers in
India wanted a watch they could
wear while playing polo and Jaeger-
LeCoultre’s in-house historian and museum curator
Sebastian Vivas says the watch is nothing short of iconic.
“The origins of the Reverso’s birth, its timeless style, our
in-house watchmaking excellence and the manifold ways the
watch can be personalised – via engraving, lacquering and
enamelling – all contribute to rendering the Reverso both a
classic watch and a cult object,” he claims.
There are some watches that seem to draw you into a
narrative, inviting you to begin your own journey with
them: consider the watch worn by Neil Armstrong when he
took one big step onto the moon in 1969, watched by more
than 60 million people worldwide (the Omega Speedmaster
Professional); James Bond’s favourite watch (the Rolex
Submariner, according to author of the original James Bond
novels, Ian Fleming, or the Omega Seamaster 300 metre Diver
Chronometer according to multiple blockbuster movies);
watches collection
or the watch worn by racing legend Steve McQueen in the
classic 1970 racing film, Le Mans (the Tag Heuer Monaco).
Tag Heuer equipped early racing cars with dashboard
clocks in the 1860s, timed the Olympic Games in the 1920s,
and its new Mikrograph, set to be another classic, is the
first mechanical watch in the world to break down time, by
measuring it to the nearest 1/100th of a second.
Patek Philippe’s World Time, first introduced in 1930, was
the first watch to display time in all 24 time zones. One lady
recently went into the Patek Philippe store on Bond Street
to check the length of the waiting list for the enormously
sought-after World Time 5131, a watch with an enamel dial.
An apologetic salesperson told her she might have to wait
“up to ten years.”
A split second is all you need to recognise some classic
watches – if only you know what to look for. Think of the
Rolex Oyster cyclops magnifying lens date display at three
o’clock, Breguet’s metallic blue hands with a bubble near the
top, Hublot’s screws round its bezels inspired by portholes
on yachts or Chopard’s Happy Diamonds, which float freely
around watch dials.
Hermès has now taken the concept of timeless watches
to a whole new level. World-class watchmaker Jean-Marc
Wiederrecht, who has turned his hand to watches for Van
Cleef & Arpels and Harry Winston in the past, recently
created a new Hermès Arceau watch that, he explains,
“suspends time.” At the touch of a button, all the hands
jump to a position on the dial that fails to signify any sensible
time at all – escapism of a new kind. Touch it again and it
returns instantly back to reality. “We’re leveraging technical
innovations for poetry in timekeeping,” says Hermès CEO
of Watches, Luc Perramond. “There are a lot of people who
want to design an iconic watch, but not many do,” adds
Wiederrecht. A classic? Only time will tell. n
35

collection special event
The Jewel
in the City’s Crown
Collectors from around the globe will flock to Goldsmiths’ Fair this month as the historic
company presents one of the most prestigious events of its kind in Europe, and an
exciting insight into the intriguing world of fine jewellery. Richard Brown reports
Having played an integral part
in London Jewellery Week
2011 in June when it hosted
The Goldsmiths’ Pavillion
at Treasure – a selling
exhibition demonstrating contemporary UK
jewellery talent – The Goldsmiths’ Company
will once again showcase the country’s
flair for jewellery design when its annual
Goldsmiths’ Fair commences at the end of
this month.
Established in 1983, Goldsmiths’ Fair has
grown in stature to become what is now
considered the ultimate one-stop destination for
those seeking contemporary jewellery and silver
by the most exciting independent designers in the
UK. For two weeks, 180 designers, including ten
recent graduates, will descend upon Goldsmiths’
Hall to present their latest collections. The result
promises to be a dazzling display of virtuoso
jewellery and silverware.
Set in Goldsmiths’ Hall, located in the heart
of the City and on a site that the company
has owned since 1339, the exhibition takes
place against a background steeped in
history. As the medieval guild for goldsmiths,
as well as silversmiths and jewellers, The
Goldsmiths’ Company has been responsible
for authenticating the standard of precious
36
metals since the 14th century. In fact, the
word ‘hallmarking’ arises from the fact that
such metals were inspected and marked at
Goldsmiths’ Hall.
684 years after Edward III marked the
beginning of the company’s formal existence
as a craft guild, Goldsmiths’ continues as one
of the few Livery Companies still carrying
out its ancient functions, testing and marking
objects made of precious metals above certain
purities from its London Assay Office.
Honouring this celebrated history,
Goldsmiths’ Fair provides a platform for
talent, passion, creativity, innovative design
and superlative craftsmanship. Forget mass
production; the selling event, which is open
to the public, is centred on the bespoke and
the original, with each piece on show having
been hand-made by dedicated craftsmen in
small workshops around the country.
As well as providing the opportunity for
visitors to become the owner of a bespoke piece
of fine jewellery, the Fair encourages interaction
with designers who will be explaining their
techniques and inspiration. The two-way
interaction adds a vital personal element to the
whole process of buying, as well as making the
experience enlightening and educational.
“The Fair is a hugely important event
Below left to right:
Ming
David Marshall
Tom Rucker
Shaun Leane
to many designer-makers,” points out Paul
Dyson, Director of Promotion. “It presents
an invaluable opportunity in terms of
experience, exposure and direct contact with
clients. Equally significant are the huge benefits
the makers gain from exhibiting together, not
only in terms of camaraderie but also through
networking and the sharing of ideas and skills.”
Running from 26 September to 9 October,
Goldsmiths’ Fair has become a must-visit for
both in-the-know jewellery enthusiasts and
collectors, looking to add bespoke, signature
pieces to their collection. Whether you wish
to acquire treasured one-of-a-kind gifts,
statement silver pieces for the home, future
heirlooms for the family, or cufflinks and silver
accessories for men and fabulous jewellery for
women, the Fair won’t disappoint. Make an
investment in pieces that will only increase in
value thanks to the combination of precious
metals and superlative bespoke design, or
simply head to Goldsmiths’ to get your
Christmas shopping done early. n
Goldsmiths’ Fair
26 September-2 October and 4-9 October
Open 11am-7pm, Monday to Friday, and
10am-6pm, Saturday and Sunday
www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk

It’s all In the bag
Luxury luggage and accessory brand Tumi launch their
sumptuous Autumn / Winter collection, combining their
classic wheeled hard-shell cases, with an array of
handbags, satchels, totes, and briefcases. In dusky
shades of grey and copper, deep port-reds, seductive
expresso and smart black, this season’s palette is a
stylish addition to any ensemble. Whether you
are heading for a day at the office, a night on the
town or for a week at the beach Tumi have a bag
to suit the occasion.
In collaboration with the Breast Cancer
Research Foundation, Tumi are unveiling
their limited edition pink travel collection.
20 percent of the sales of these products
go to supporting the invaluable work
into finding a cure to breast cancer in
our lifetime.
Tumi
Cabot Place
Canary Wharf
020 7513 2456
What’s In store for london 2012
Just in time for the back-to-school stock up and Christmas shopping, London 2012 opens the doors
of its newest store in Jubilee Place, Canary Wharf in mid September. Coinciding with the launch of the
latest Team GB and Paralympics GB range, the exciting new London 2012 Shop will showcase gifts and
clothing featuring the vibrant London 2012 colours, the classic Olympic Museum Collection designs
and many other exciting products. Wenlock, the official Olympic mascot, and Mandeville, the official
Paralympic mascot, are also available in a range of toys, games and collectables. From the gift giver to
the London visitor, from the collector to the child in all of us, there is something there for everyone.
London 2012 Shop
Jubilee Place
Canary Wharf
bedford Collection
georgetown Collection
SHOPPING
bedford Collection
bellevue Collection

1
SHOPPING
Lady Red in
Shop in Canary Wharf and dress to impress in one of this season's hottest colours
9
6
5
2
1 Reiss A/W Collection, see store for details, Cabot Place & Jubilee Place 2 Square Pendant, £80, Jaeger London, Cabot Place
3 Sleeveless Pussybow Shirt, £20, River Island, Cabot Place 4 Belted Coat, £430, Jaeger London, Cabot Place 5 Plisse Skirt, £32, Warehouse, Canada Place
6 Shilo Heel, £160, L.K.Bennett, Jubilee Place 7 Empress Cuff, £79, Aspinal of London, Cabot Place 8 Ellie Bag, £345, L.K.Bennett, Jubilee Place
9 Watch, £360, Pandora, Cabot Place � Paolo Belt, £49, Reiss, Cabot Place & Jubilee Place
7
3
�
4
8

Suited Style
for
Channel city chic with sharp tailoring and smart accessories from Canary Wharf
2
3 4
9
5
8
SHOPPING
1 Hackett A/W Collection, see store for details, Cabot Place 2 Jersey Jacket, £550 and Striped Shirt from £45, Hackett, Cabot Place 3 Spot Cotton Handkerchief, £12.50,
Charles Tyrwhitt, Canada Place 4 Mini-dot Tie, £75, Aquascutum, Cabot Place 5 Bedford Briefcase, £845, Tumi, Cabot Place 6 Leather Hip Flask, £40, Aspinal of London,
Cabot Place 7 Patek Philippe Calatrava, £19,530, David M Robinson, Jubilee Place 8 Mayfair Cufflinks, £55, Hackett , Cabot Place 9 Meisterstrück Solitaire Doue Geometric
Pen, £950, Montblanc, Canada Place � Chetwynd Brogue, £370, Church's English Shoes, Cabot Place � Polished Shoe, £210, Hugo Boss, Cabot Place
�
6
�
7
1

events
DISCOVERY WALKS:
Discover Canary Wharf’s unique landscaped spaces and take a deeper look at how the area’s history has
come to shape its future, through free Discovery Walks: Nature & History.
If you’ve ever wondered how Canary Wharf has come to be a world leader in contemporary urban
design and a blueprint for ecological management these walks are for you. Nature explores Canary
Wharf’s green public spaces and hidden wildlife habitats, while History traces Canary Wharf’s humble
beginnings as a disused dock through to its iconic urban regeneration.
Discovery Walks will take you beyond the simple beginnings of this area to its dynamic future enhanced by
its world class design, and thriving shopping malls, events, visual arts and community programmes.
Friday 16 September - Nature
This walk will guide you through some of Canary Wharf’s 20 acres of landscaped open spaces and natural
reserves. From green roofs and parks to colourful flower beds and aquatic features, walkers will discover
the green areas and learn of the species of bird, fish and insects that the area attracts. Discover how these
spaces are home to so many different species of flora and fauna and how Canary Wharf Group’s high
standards of ecological management and sustainability have contributed to being named among The
Sunday Times’ Best Green Companies in the UK since 2008.
Saturday 17 September - History
History will help you to examine the extraordinary transformation of an area whose development was once
considered an “impossible” task. Come and discover the secrets of the planning, design and construction of
this remarkable London landmark, from the footprint of the boom then decline of the West India Docks and
the area’s multi-cultural roots, to the devastation inflicted by WWII, to the area’s dramatic regeneration.
Walks start at the Canary Wharf Jubilee Line station.
space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Friday 16 and saturday 17 september
Friday 6-8pm: nAtURe
saturday 11am-1pm and 2-4pm: HIstORY
throughout Canary Wharf
FRee
THE LUNCH MARKET
Fast becoming a Canary Wharf favourite, join us for an alfresco
feast as The Lunch Market returns to Canada Square Park for
the final time this year, with more than 20 stalls brimming with
delicious international foods. Inspired by the spirit of outdoor
markets throughout the world, The Lunch Market offers an
amazing assortment of tasty dishes for lunch with a difference.
Each lunch market offers a changing range of fabulous
foods from a variety of cuisines – you might find spicy
curries and tagines, fresh burritos with guacamole, delicious
organic vegetarian food, chunky steak sandwiches, gourmet
chorizo rolls, fresh ice cream and much more - so leave those
sandwiches at home and join us for something a bit different!
tuesday 27 september
11am-3pm
Canada square Park, Canary Wharf

Celebrate the 2011 Rugby World Cup at
Canary Wharf
TouCh Rugby Challenge
Canary Wharf celebrates the 2011 Rugby World Cup by inviting the England Touch Rugby team to Canada
Square Park where they will demonstrate the sport and their skills. There will also be the unique opportunity
for teams to take them on and rugby enthusiasts to just turn up and take part in the rugby target challenge.
So why not enter a team or just turn up on the day and take part in this celebration of rugby.
Tuesday 11 October
Touch Rugby Challenge
11.30am-2.30pm
Canada Square Park, Canary Wharf
Free
To enter a team email arts&events@canarywharf.com
an evening
WiTh legends
You are invited to join rugby legends england’s David
Trick (Tricky), Ireland’s rob Henderson and Saracens’
Hugh Vyvyan for some lively chat, reminiscing, questions
and answers prior to the screening of Invictus PG starring
Hollywood legends Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon,
and directed by Clint eastwood. The 2009 film depicts the
incredible true story of the rise and success of the host nation
South Africa in the 1995 rugby World Cup.
Tuesday 11 October
an evening with legends
7pm (doors 6.30pm)
Screening commences 8pm
east Wintergarden, Bank Street
e14 5NX
Full bar and food available from
doors opening
£20 - ticketweb.co.uk or
0844 847 2268 (booking fee applies)
Visit canarywharf.com for regular event updates, pick up a brochure available throughout the Canary Wharf malls or email
arts&events@canarywharf.com to be added to our mailing list.
Details correct at time of print.
Coming to Canary Wharf
this autumn…
CanaRy WhaRf
Comedy Club
Looking for nights of raucous comedy?
Then join us for a feast of established
comedians and rising stars.
Tuesday 25 October & 8 November
7.15pm (doors 6.30pm)
£12 - ticketweb.co.uk or
0844 847 2268
(booking fee applies)
east Wintergarden, Bank Street
e14 5NX
Full bar and food available from doors
opening
CanaRy WhaRf Quiz
nighT
Mondays 10 October & 7 November
6.30pm (doors 6pm)
east Wintergarden, Bank Street,
£15 per team*, maximum 6 team
members – All proceeds go to charity
*Teams must register in advance via
email to:
arts&events@canarywharf.com
Full bar and food available from
doors opening
For more information visit canarywharf.com

ScuLPtuRE IN thE WORKPLAcE
ART
LAWSON OYEKAN: GLOBAL WORKING
19 September – 11 November 2011
Lobby, One Canada Square
Four ceramic sculptures by Lawson Oyekan have long formed part of Canary Wharf’s permanent
art collection, on display in the Lobby of One Canada Square. In September these are joined by an
exhibition of the artist’s more recent works. Significantly larger pieces, they show how Oyekan’s
ideas have progressed and demonstrate his extraordinary working practice.
For a number of years Oyekan has not had a permanent studio, mainly due to his ambition to
work on a large scale but also, more importantly, to reflect on other cultures and to discover the
effects that clays from different parts of the world have on his sculptural vessels. For him each
vessel is a figure and the smaller items on pedestals are heads. His vessels hold mysteries, spirits
and stories – many pieces include calligraphy – conjured up from his Yoruba origins, but married
with contemporary culture from around the world.
Oyekan was born in London but brought up in Nigeria. He graduated from the Royal College
of Art in 1988 and has since pursued a career as a sculptor working in both stone and clay. He has
gained residencies in Britain, Europe and the United States and has exhibited widely, winning the
Grand Prize at the World Ceramic Biennale in South Korea in 2001.
For information on the Visual Arts programme please visit canarywharf.com
WINdOW
GALLERIES
The Art, Design & Lightbox
Window Galleries in Canada
Place retail mall are showcases for
up-and-coming artists, designers
and craftspeople.
Katharina Vones
Until 23 September
Katharina’s
Microcosms
collection
captures the
harmonious
imperfections
of growth patterns found within
nature and architecture. Towering
skyscrapers with their mirrorpolished
façades are a particular
focus of interest, translated into
multi-faceted jewellery that appears
to grow on the complex surface of
the human body.
kvones.com
Petra Bishai
Until 23 September
Petra’s work
is inspired by
city life. Her
beautifully
constructed
wall pieces,
both mobile
and fixed, incorporate industrial and
hand-made staples in steel, 18 carat
gold and silver.
petrabishai.co.uk
Madi Boyd and
Jonathan Munro
Until 28 October
Boyd and Munro work
collaboratively in installation and
holographic video. For the first
time since winning the Randstad VJ
award, they present images from
filming at ZSL London Zoo.
madiboyd.com jonathanmunro.com

25 Churchill Place
New Canary Wharf Tower to be built at
25 Churchill Place
The last remaining site on the original Canary Wharf Masterplan is to be developed.
Construction on 25 Churchill Place will start later this year. The 20 storey building has
been half let to the European Medicines Agency, who will move in from January 2015.
The other half of the building will be marketed by Canary Wharf Group as construction
progresses.
25 Churchill Place will be one of Canary Wharf’s greenest buildings. Environmental
features include elevators that store and reuse energy elsewhere in the building, the latest
ultra-efficient air-conditioning equipment that recycles the energy from exhaust air and
photo-voltaic cells to generate energy from the sun’s rays.
Shell Centre
NEWS
Shell Centre to be
redeveloped by Canary
Wharf Group and
Qatari Diar
Canary Wharf Group and Qatari Diar recently
concluded an agreement with Shell International
to redevelop the Shell Centre site at South Bank,
in the heart of London.
The companies secured the site for £300 million
and will be working on plans to develop a mixture
of office, retail and residential space. George
Iacobescu CBE, Chairman and Chief Executive
of Canary Wharf Group said: “The South Bank
is one of London’s best loved places. It is both a
privilege and a great responsibility to be involved
in this redevelopment project which will reenergise
a key part of this area of London.”
Canary Wharf to be
the Backdrop for Star
Strewn Film
Canary Wharf is to form part of the set for a new
feature film called Welcome to the Punch.
Written and directed by Isle of Dogs resident
Eran Creevy, the film will star James McAvoy,
Mark Strong and Andrea Riseborough.
Eran Creevy comments “It’s great to be
shooting against the magnificent backdrop of
Canary Wharf and modern London, we have a
fantastically talented cast and crew, and I can’t
wait to start filming.”
Welcome To The Punch finds ex-criminal Jacob
Sternwood (Strong) forced to return to London
from his Icelandic hideaway when his son is
involved in a heist gone wrong. This gives his
nemesis, detective Max Lewinsky (McAvoy), one
last chance to catch the man he’s always been after.
As the two enemies hurtle towards an unavoidable
face off, they start to uncover a deeper conspiracy
they both need to solve in order to survive.

Hot on the heels of New
York, and skipping ahead of
its European sisters Milan
and Paris, comes London
Fashion Week in all its
androgynous, voluminous,
dotty, fetish-fashion glory
LONDON FASHION WEEK
People constantly make the mistake
of comparing London with New
York, Milan and Paris, and that’s
not what it’s about. London has its
own fashion identity. You come here
to find the next Alexander McQueen.” If anyone
has the authority to say so, it’s Anna Wintour,
editor of fashion bible American Vogue, and she’s
right. London has made its own indelible, unique
stamp on the global fashion industry and London
Fashion Week (LFW) serves to showcase not only
established designers but also to highlight the best
of the new kids on the block.
interview..............;NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD
fashion.................................................................................BODYAMR!
feature..................................................FASHION FRINGE
This September sees the ‘Big Four’ fashion
capitals hosting their biannual, trend-setting
Fashion Weeks in quick succession, drawing
the attention of designers, fashionistas and press
worldwide. Organised by the British Fashion
Council and funded by a number of sponsors,
the SS 2012 collections debut in London from
16 to 20 September. LFW boasts more than 50
official catwalk shows as well as another 45 off
schedule, showcasing in excess of 170 designers
and putting London and British fashion firmly
on the international stage. LFW alone generates
orders in the region of £100 million. n
47

THE BEAUTY
gilt
of
Sleek, modern evening wear, body-con micro dresses, spiked stilettos and gold
shackled boots: essential BodyAmr for the most stylish women.
From sequins and drapes to seventies and fur, make a statement this season
Photography: John Wright Styling: Jessica Rea Long

Kym: Power net and crystal bodice evening
dress with peacock silk drape (made to order)
Nude suede pump with patent leather toe cap
and yellow gold heel
Shamone: Ivory knitted silk asymetric drape
cocktail dress, navy suede pumps with patent
leather toe cap and pink gold heel
All clothes and jewellery by BodyAmr
All footwear by Gianmarco Lorenzi for BodyAmr

Shamone, top left: Ivory knitted silk asymetric drape cocktail dress, pumps as before
Kym, left: Geometric printed silk satin drawstring kaftan (made to order), pumps as
before, pair of gold cuffs
Shamone, above: Floor length silk chiffon dress with stretch metalic printed rayon body
(made to order), gold chain ankle boots with Swarovski stud detail

Kym, far left: Power net and lame cocktail dress
Gold cuffs, gold tribal necklace
Kym, left: Veiled powernet and crystal cocktail dress
with cut out shoulders, grey suede and gold fringe
thigh boots with gold toe cap

Kym: Veiled powernet and crystal cocktail dress
Shamone: Fine knit rayon halter cocktail dress with
“Mongolian biker” leather and fur jacket
(made to order), sunglasses: stylist’s own

All clothes and jewellery from
BodyAmr, www.bodyamr.com
All shoes from the launch collection
of Gianmarco Lorenzi for BodyAmr
AW11 and available to order
For stockists or bespoke enquiries, please
contact Drew Muntz. Call 020 7691 2085
or email correspondence@bodyamr.com
Hair stylist:
Enzo Volpe
Make-up artist:
Nikki Palmer
Models:
Shamone at Premiere and Kym at IMG
Location: Goldsmiths’ Hall.
Goldsmiths’ Fair of Contemporary
Jewellery and Silver is taking place
26 September – 9 October
www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk

fashion
news
GuCCI for a/w11
Rarely has one collection epitomised so many of
the season’s key trends as the latest drop from
Gucci. Look after look had the fashion press
captivated in Milan as models took to the runway
in a variety of show-stopping designs. At one end
of the spectrum, summer’s colour blocking brights
were reworked into sophisticated jewelled tones of
MUST-HAVE ITEM: WEbSITE: TREND:
New Louboutins
While this shoe’s iconic
red sole might alone
determine its must-have
status, its playful appeal
makes it all the more
charming. After all, if one
is choosing Louboutins why
not have them super-high,
in an outlandish shade and
edged with glitter and gold?
8 mIGnons In Chartreuse
sueDe, ChrIstIan louboutIn,
www.ChrIstIanlouboutIn.Com
emerald and amethyst, but there was also a touch
of the dark, gothic vamp as seen at Christian Dior.
Snakeskin and sharp tailoring can be referenced
but the overall style was that of a poised and
elegant country duchess. Think faux fur, fedoras
and layering.
www.GuCCI.Com
www.balenciaga.co.uk
A tempting scrolling
function which rattles
through the collections and
optimised search facilities
make the redesigned
Balenciaga website a
shopper’s dream. However,
we love it for its archives,
which include sketches
from the first range in 1937
along with documentation
of how the designs and
marketing campaigns have
evolved over the decades.
fashion
concierge
Quote of the month:
A girl should be
two things: classy
and fabulous.
Sixties Style
You could be forgiven for
thinking summer’s 70s revival
was going to pervade A/W11
too, and it well might, but
those favouring monochrome
and simple shapes are already
unearthing last year’s chic
shifts and rocking a slicker
silhouette. This belted jersey
dress by Milly at NET-A-
PORTER has all the makings of
a wardrobe staple.
www.netaporter.Com
I heart (DK)nY
DKNY has launched its new
jewellery pieces for Fall 2011,
capturing the edgy tone
of New York cool
which has become
the label’s signature.
The range
juxtaposes leather
bracelets and a
mix of metals
and semi precious
stones including
rose gold, silver and
grey. Fans of DKNY
watches will also spot
details like logo studs and
D-shaped links which have been
carried over, along with luxurious black
and white ceramics.
www.DKnY.Com
CoCo Chanel
57

Photo: Sophie Delaporte
In His Shoes
Despite being a much-lauded shoe designer with an A-list following, it’s not
your average man behind the label. As Nicholas Kirkwood opens his new store
on Mayfair’s exclusive Mount Street, he talks to Elle Blakeman about footwear
inspiration, loud music and why women refuse to give up the platform
It’s a stiflingly hot day in London when I meet
Nicholas Kirkwood at his über-chic new store in
Mount Street, Mayfair’s most élite road. He leads
me through the light-filled, airy space stacked with
stunning heels at every turn, as I try not to get
distracted and instead focus on where I am putting my now
rather boringly clad feet (peach cut-out heels, for the record).
We reach the basement of this beautiful Grade-II listed
building, a Geppetto’s workshop of sorts, and Kirkwood
politely apologises for the heat: “We have air-con upstairs in
the shop, but it doesn’t quite stretch to down here,” he says.
I am astounded at how down-to-earth the man himself is.
After all, this is the designer who has won countless awards
in his short career, including the prestigious Accessory
Designer of the Year award at the 2010 British Fashion
Awards; he is the designer openly praised by Manolo
Blahnik for his unique style; and last, but by no means least
in this celebrity-driven world, he decorated Sarah Jessica
Parker’s famous-in-their-own-right feet in her Sex and the
City 2 tour – surely the most watched soles on the planet.
So how did this ordinary man rise up to become such an
insider name in just six short years? The answer, of course,
is that he’s anything but ordinary. Having studied fine art at
Central St. Martin’s and unsure about what direction to take,
the young Kirkwood went to work with hat designer, Philip
Treacy. “Women would bring in these fantastic outfits and I
would try to find a hat to match. At the time there were some
amazing things happening with clothes – McQueen, Hussein
Chalayan – but the shoes were really dull, as if from another
decade. I knew I liked accessories, and I just thought that there
was a lot more that could be done with shoes. So I looked into
a course in London and I ended up at Cordwainers.”
This ‘thought’ paid off, as the industry quickly sat up and
took note of his innovative, architectural designs, earning
him several emerging designer awards. His pioneering
approach to shoe design, and the materials manipulated
to make them, from degradé silks to shaved stingray and
rubberised leather, showed that this was not a man who
shied away from a challenge. So where does the inspiration
for these ground-breaking – literally – designs come from?
“I just sit down with a pad of paper and a cup of tea
and some really loud music”, [electro or rock, if you’re
interested] “and just start doodling. Then I’ll see something
else that will take it in a new direction and eventually at
some point you’ve got to stop and say, ‘Okay, I better
start making them now’.” Does he pay attention to what’s
going on in the industry when designing? “Obviously
I consider the seasons, but I then just do what I enjoy.
When I started out I really looked up to people like Roger
Vivier, Andre Perugia and Ferragamo. They were really
pushing boundaries and doing incredible things, and the
technologies they were using at the time were really new.”

This desire to constantly create something fresh is
evident throughout his collections. “I have just been
working with the Keith Haring foundation, incorporating
his artwork into a mini couture collection, [which has
now gone to exhibition]... Because his shapes are so bold,
I thought it would be really interesting to see if you could
take that artwork and use it in a different way, and not just
on a flat surface.”
Kirkwood clearly believes that two heads are better
than one, with a long list of collaborations behind him.
“Shoes lend themselves to collaborations as they are an
accessory to the rest of the outfit, so in a way I’m always
collaborating. It allows me to do something I wouldn’t
normally do in my own collection. So working with Rodate
it could be doing a candlewax heel, or big studs and
spikes. These are things that I would never put in my own
collection because it goes outside the look I’m trying to get,
but at the same time I really enjoyed doing it.”
As any dedicated shoe shopper will tell you, heels have
interview
become increasingly vertiginous thanks to the platform,
the popularity of which had shown no sign of waning until
recently, when Tom Ford declared: “When a woman looks
like she has copies of the Oxford English Dictionary attached
to her feet, it’s time for the fashion pendulum to swing the
other way”. Where Tom Ford goes, the industry follows,
so how does Kirkwood feel about the potential impending
death of the platform? “I’ve been doing that for years but
the problem is no one is buying them!” he says. “There’s
definitely a push from the press and certain designers are
trying to go lower, but the problem is that women have
become used to that extra inch or two and they are reluctant
to give it up. They don’t want to be shorter.”
It is this knowledge of what women want that has made
him so successful. Rather than simply picturing a red-carpetsauntering
A-lister, Kirkwood identifies various scenarios
and personalities, bringing his work to life. “I imagine all
different types of women in my shoes, so ‘the department
store girl’ or ‘the downtown hip girl’. I don’t have a celebrity
muse.” And yet celebrities still flock to the brand. “There
are some really cool women out there wearing my shoes
– Julianne Moore, Sarah Jessica Parker, Beyoncé…” Does
this unaffected designer ever get excited to see his creations
being worn? “When I started I thought, that’ll be the best
thing ever to see someone in your shoes, and then at a party
someone said: ‘She’s wearing your shoes!’”
So, awards, glamour and now one of the chicest shoe
shops around – with floors designed by Richard Woods, who
Nicholas lived with in his Philip Treacy days: “I saw what
he did at the late Isabella Blow’s house and I thought that
it would be perfect for the shop” – what does rest of 2011
hold for the brand? “A couple of collaborations will come
out next year, plus we’re bringing out a men’s collection, and
potentially bags as well. Oh, and we’re going to open a store
in New York.” “Where in New York?” I enquire; after all,
Mount Street is fairly hard to top. He ponders for a moment.
“I’m not sure. But it will be somewhere good,” he says,
smiling. I have no doubt it will. n
www.nicholaskirkwood.com
concierge
59

interview
concierge
comment
What You’ll Be Wearing
With London Fashion Week upon us, Elle Blakeman looks to the Fashion Fringe stage
to see what the cream of the next generation of designers will produce for S/S12
For fashion insiders, the Fashion Fringe
competition is a battle worth paying attention
to. Now in its eighth year, the competition is
responsible for propelling some of the most
talented ‘new gen’ (new generation) designers
to the next level, including Erdem and Basso & Brooke, and
has previously been judged by industry royalty Tom Ford and
Donatella Versace. True to form, this year’s judges include
Roland Mouret and the always-in-fashion Claudia Schiffer
(who has recently launched her own cashmere label), alongside
founder, renowned fashion journalist Colin McDowell, who
insists that this is the best year yet.
“There was an energy but a seriousness in our choices
this year because, as several members of the jury who
have worked with us before have said, this is potentially
the strongest line up we have had in our eight years,” says
McDowell. Mouret points out that “it’s not just exciting
but also very relevant to feel part of Fashion Fringe, where
so many young talents take their journey in this amazing,
frustrating world of fashion.
“What’s better than to have Colin McDowell as a Fairy
Godmother?” he adds. After a long, and fiercely fought
contest, the judges narrowed their shortlist of 11 (“The fact
that we couldn’t get it down to ten tells its own tale,” says
McDowell) down to just three, each of whom made room
for us in their busy preparations to tell us about their take on
fashion. We strongly advise learning these names.
Next Summer
Heidi Leung
A super-sweet and incredibly talented graduate of Central
St. Martin’s, Heidi Leung has worked with renowned
designers Edmond Chow (in San Francisco), Alexander
McQueen and Christopher Kane
How did you get started?
I was interested in punk DIY clothes, and also in the idea
that romantic moments are more romantic when you are
dressed for the occasion.
What does fashion mean to you?
To me it’s being able to become a character through
dressing. You step out of your house and you can play any
part you want, which is magical.
Who would be your dream person to dress?
Daphne Guinness. She’s fearless and just loves fashion.
And she’s not practical in any way.
Who do you look up to in the industry?
Diana Vreeland and Grace Coddington, as they both
made great careers in fashion out of being who they are.
Which look do you wish you’d created?
Rococco – true luxury. Or the flapper look – I love
1920s glamour.
61

comment
concierge interview
62
Sum up your collection in three words.
Orientalism; vintage resort.
What is your fashion prediction for 2012?
Colourful A/W collections I hope! Though I have not
really thought that far and don’t try to predict fashion.
What would you ban in fashion?
Ultra low-rise jeans – they’re terrible!
Nabil El-Nayal
A Royal Collage of Art graduate (on a MA scholarship scheme
from the British Fashion Council) and winner of the Graduate
Fashion Week Womenswear Award in 2008, Nabil has gone
on to design a line of super-chic dresses for River Island
How did you get started?
I don’t really recall wanting to do anything else; one of
my earliest memories as a child is knitting. After loving all
art subjects at school, I went on to study at the Manchester
School of Art and later the Royal College of Art.
What does fashion mean to you?
Aside from my mother, fashion is the most important
thing to me in the world. I feel so complete when I dress
a woman in my clothes; when she is happy, I get a rush of
adrenaline through my body - it’s very addictive!
Who would be your dream person to dress?
In the past, Eartha Kitt and Marlene Dietrich – both very
powerful and confident women. Today I look to women
who have that same power and allure; people like Daphne
Guinness and also Madonna.
Who do you look up to in the industry?
I am a big fan of Jens Laugesen.
Which look do you wish you’d created?
Elizabeth I. I wish I’d been around to be her personal stylist.
Sum up your collection in three words.
Ethereal. Smoke. Confident.
What is your fashion prediction for 2012?
I believe that doughy-neutral colours will really
dominate. I’m feeling cleanliness and loving no-fuss-cleancut-functional-creativity.
What would you ban in fashion?
Harems come right up there, along with UGGs, cheap
pumps and anything that has a bow on it.
Fyodor and Golan
The formidable and über-sleek duo – Fyodor Podgorny and
Golan Frydman – were named finalists after showing with
Vauxhall Fashion Scout last season and have done stints at
Alexander McQueen, Richard Nichol and Dries Van Noten
How did you get started?
We’d been together for over four years but always
worked separately with advice from each other. We
launched our label a year ago as we felt that our work
was growing organically together. Our dream is to create
a FYODOR GOLAN Fashion House – for us it’s about
exploring opposites so its personal and emotional, a Dr.
Jekyll / Mr Hyde type of thing.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is not the front or the back of a garment, but
something in between; something holds it together with a
bit of magic and imagination.
Who would be your dream person to dress?
We dream of dressing Marilyn Monroe. She had such a
strong film image and a totally different image in real life,
something of our duality – melancholy and energy. Today,
we’d be honoured to dress Nicole Kidman and Cate Blanchett.
Who do you look up to in the industry?
We look up to people who inspire us – Elsa Schiaparelli
in the past to Haider Ackermann. They show something
extra besides business.
Which look do you wish you’d created?
The Elizabethan era, we love Queen Elizabeth. Her
power and hunger for change and harmony is inspirational.
The way she communicated herself through her look.
Sum up your collection in three words.
Flowers of evil.
What is your fashion prediction for 2012?
Strong colours, strong attitude, strong personalities.
What would you ban in fashion?
Fakes - nobody looks good in them. n

Design
divas

With the new Autumn/Winter Collection
from Project D set to be another huge
success, Gabrielle Lane talks fashion and
future plans with label creators Dannii
Minogue and Tabitha Somerset-Webb
With the tagline declaring ‘beautiful
dresses to make every woman feel
beautiful’, Project D is on a mission to
conquer the market. Representing their
combined passions, style icon Dannii
Minogue and talented designer Tabitha Somerset-Webb set
out to create a range of glamorous gowns which would both
appeal to, and work, for all women. “We want women to
wear our dresses and to feel sexy and confident in them,”
explains Tabitha. “The dresses are made to look as cool on a
25-year-old as they do timeless on a 60-year-old.”
To this end, the new Autumn/Winter collection includes
eye-catching leopard prints and feminine florals for daytime,
gorgeous ensembles of deep red and classic black for events
and several signature showstoppers such as the striking,
metallic Claudia mini dress. This will be the pair’s fifth range
and it is proving just as popular as their previous design work.
“A/W main is an exciting collection! Dannii’s favourite
is the Lily dress in the black jacquard. She’s saving it for a
special occasion, as she loves it,” enthuses Tabitha. Tabitha
herself favours the Kate, an easy day dress in a gorgeous
polka dot. She also loves the Tyra, a more structured dress,
tailored to make every figure look fabulous.
It is the fusion of the creators’ different preferences
which holds the key to the brand’s wide appeal. Dannii
continues to win admiration for her sophisticated style
while Tabitha channels a fresh, rock ‘n’ roll edge. “My
passions are usually bolder than Dannii’s,” Tabitha agrees.
“We both travel a lot so often pick up different ideas from
round the globe and email them to each other excitedly.”
While dresses are clearly still on the agenda, Dannii
and Tabitha also share an enthusiasm for all things
beauty. “We are launching a range in Boots which will
cover everything from body lotion to lip glosses so we
are keen to see the reaction to it,” they explain, before
openly disclosing their desires to move into maternity and
wedding collections in the future. Of course, the irony is
that such huge brand development and success leaves little
time for pampering. “In an ideal world, before a night
out we both love to have a long luxurious bath, exfoliate,
moisturise and give ourselves a mani/pedi while rocking
out to music on our iPods,” says Tabitha. “Although,
neither of us have much time.”
However, their mission remains clear, as Tabitha
explains. “I hope that both the brands will continue to
grow and flourish. Project D is still in its infancy and my
hope is that it has so much more to achieve – there is so
much Dannii and I still want to do, but it’s all about taking
it a day at a time. In ten years time we hope to be sitting in
our penthouse office in Sydney looking out over the ocean
and giving each other a high five!” n
Project D by Dannii and Tabitha is available at
www.projectdonline.co.uk
fashion
concierge
65

A BEAUTIFUL
NEW HAIR CUT

health & beauty
news
worK out weiGht loSS
Last month Olympic Rowing Coach and training
guru Terry O’Neill advised us on the fastest
way to lose weight. This month we asked him
why, for some of us, working out doesn’t always
achieve the desired results.
He explained: “This is a common problem
but can normally be explained by one of two
simple answers. Either you are overeating to
congratulate yourself on having done exercise
or you have swapped some muscle for some fat;
since muscle is heavier than fat, your weight
may have gone up. Watch your diet, make sure
you’re not overeating and avoid energy drinks
which will put back on all the calories you’ve
just burned off. Measure your waist, thighs and
biceps, and take pictures to compare before and
after – you may just be changing shape which is
what you want. Visit the website to make sure
you’re training in the right way.”
www.concept2.co.uK/weiGhtloSS
treatment of the month: SEANHANNA EXECUTIVE BLOW-DRY
Ever wished you could breeze straight from work
to social events with salon-perfect hair? If so, are
you often thwarted in the attempt because time
isn’t on your side? Seanhanna has come up with
the perfect solution. The London Hairdressers of
the Year has introduced the Executive Blowdry – a
fabulous new service available now at Seanhanna
for just £20. This uber-professional, speedy
blowdry includes a luxury shampoo and blissful
head massage, as well as styling your hair however
you like; I looked more like Cheryl Cole than I
ever thought possible by the end. Do note that this
is a walk-in service only and cannot be booked in
advance. Subject to availability, the receptionist
will allocate you a stylist anytime you pop in while
passing, so give yourself a well-deserved treat.
Seanhanna executive Blow-Dry, £20
Sean hanna, juBilee place, 020 7513 2660
health & beauty
concierge
raw fairieS
5-Day Detox
Combining the skills of Cordon-Bleu
trained chef Anya Ladra with the
nutritional expertise of Christina
Agnew, Raw Fairies is the number
one luxury food delivery service
in London. The concept is to aid
detoxification and for five days,
Monday to Friday, clients receive
a selection of gourmet raw food,
fresh fruit and vegetable juices and
nutritionist-designed supplements.
Combining raw and organic
ingredients provides vitamins and
minerals and avoids the loss of
energising enzymes through cooking.
Our tester slept better, had more
energy and clearer skin and lost four
pounds. Whether you want to trim
down before a holiday or big event
or kick-start a healthier lifestyle, the
Raw Fairies 5-day package, discreetly
delivered to your home or office,
makes detoxing and healthy eating
simple, easy and convenient.
raw fairieS 5-Day Detox, £295
www.rawfairieS.com
catwalK nailS
Stand out from the crowd with the
forthcoming
Facets of Fuchsia
Nail Enamel from
Revlon. Part of the
bold Expressionists
collection for the
A/W11 season, the
intense, glittery
shade is sure to
acquire cult status
and shine under a
few flashbulbs in the
run up to Christmas.
rrp £6.49
www.revlon.co.uK
67

www.boconcept.co.uk
Urban Danish Design
since 1952
Welcome to a new collection of urban Danish Design. Based on the Danish Design traditions
of simplicity and functionality, we create furniture that is not only beautiful but useful too.
That was the vision of two Danish craftsmen back in 1952. And that is how we work today.
Come and visit us in store and speak to a consultant about our free Interior Design
Service and pick up the new 2012 catalogue now.
BoConcept TCR · 158 Tottenham Court Road · London W1T 7NH · 0207 388 2447
Marie in Shanghai

© The Assembly
interiors
news
basso anD bRooke
Proof that every surface can be adorned with
gorgeous prints comes in the form of the interiors
projects of fashion design duo Basso and Brooke.
The pair have been at the helm of numerous
successful collaborations including one which saw
lampshades, console tables and a Bergere Gondola
chair wrapped in vibrant digital designs inspired by
Turning Leaf wine. They continue to work in this
capacity on a bespoke basis and will be releasing an
eagerly awaited collection of soft furnishings and
limited edition art prints on their website very soon.
www.bassoanDbRooke.com
DVF
In keeping with her fashion
signature of contemporary
patterns and smooth silhouettes,
Diane Von Furstenberg’s home
range is modern and fun. In
Europe, the range is exclusively
available at Selfridges and
includes bed linen splashed with
animal prints and bright colours
and a range of beaded cushions.
The collection is inspired by the
creator’s love of travel, nature
and art and such is her flair that
Claridge’s asked DVF to redesign
its prestigious Piano Suite.
www.selFRiDges.com
interiors concierge
Ralph lauRen
Ralph Lauren Home is the
destination of choice for discerning
clientele with a concept in mind.
While the label has chic neutral
colour palettes, handsome armoires
and chaise longues covered,
colonial style beds, safari camping
chairs and themed lamps all feature
in the range, with each piece built
to last for years to come.
www.RalphlauRenhome.com
mulbeRRy
In keeping with the ethos of
luxury British brand Mulberry, the
eponymous home range includes
accessories which are made
individually by local craftsmen.
Blankets are woven with Scottish
yarn, candles are made from natural
wax and there are beautiful willow,
leather and rope baskets created in
Somerset by a team of hot air balloon
makers. Aside from decorative items,
cosy armchairs, stools, ottomans and
fine fabrics have also been given the
Mulberry touch.
www.mulbeRRyhome.com
69

the trend
There’s nothing shabby about a chic, French style living space boasting classic furniture,
pared-down paintwork, soft colours and antique glass accessories
Savior Dining Table, £POA
Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture
www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com
Fleur de Lis Glass Jar, £20, John Lewis
www.johnlewis.com
Provencal Round White Bedside Table
£165, The French Bedroom Company
www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk
Fancy Floris Venetian Mirror, £175
The French Bedroom Company
www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Pip Studio Khaki Dinner Plate, £25.95
Selfridges, www.selfridges.com
Wild Flowers Wallpaper, £65 per roll
Cole & Son, www.cole-and-son.com
Christalle Chandelier, £195,
The French Bedroom Company,
www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk
Aqua Marine Dining Chair, £165
Sweetpea & Willow
www.sweetpeaandwillow.com
Provence Eau de Source
£24, Brissi, www.brissi.co.uk
interiors concierge
French Boudoir Chair
£1,654, Juliette’s Interiors
www.juliettesinteriors.co.uk
71

concierge
72
interiors
Coudray Bodycare Range
from £21.50, Cologne & Cotton
www.cologneandcotton.com
Floral Wardrobe, £5,025, And So To Bed
www.andsotobed.co.uk
Chateau Collection White Dressing
Table with Mirror, £655
Lucy Willow, www.lucywillow.co.uk
Kasbah Coffee Table, £698
Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.eu
Florentina Throw, £120
John Lewis, www.johnlewis.com

Live In Dream the
The future looks bright for Halcyon Interiors as the
company embarks on another 30 years of leading the
field in solutions to kitchen design
We all know that the kitchen is the
heart of the home. Not only is it the
space where we prepare, cook and eat
our food, it’s also where every dinner
party and house gathering seems to
end up. What was once a purely functionary room now
exists as a social space around which the rest of the home
revolves. In fact, we Brits spend more time in the kitchen
than in any other room.
It’s important, then, that our kitchens are able to function
around our lifestyles while simultaneously reflecting our
personalities. Equipped with the skill and experience to
ensure that they do is leading kitchen designer Halcyon
Interiors. In a similar way to how the mythical halcyon bird
was said to charm the wind and waves into tranquillity, the
company promises to transform your kitchen into a living
space of calm and congruity.
Armed with 30 years of experience at the cutting edge
of kitchen design, and specializing in Alno products – the
world’s second largest kitchen manufacturer – Halcyon
Interiors stands at the forefront of kitchen styling, supply,
and customer service. Every Halycon kitchen is designed
by its own creative team, fitted by its own installers and
managed by its own dedicated project management team
to ensure the living spaces created are as individual as the
clients for whom they are designed.
With the popularity of open interior spaces and loft style
living on the rise, the choice of the layout and styling of
your kitchen has become even more important. As living
habits change and the kitchen increasingly acts as an
extended living area, they are no longer bound by the same
design constraints as the kitchen of old.
While white may still prove popular as the focal point of
the kitchen’s colour palette, soft, neutral tones are part of
a growing trend while the introduction of new finishes like
glass offer another dimension in design. Alno Stoneglass, for
instance, where an image of stone is printed continuously onto
the back of glass doors, gives the impression of solid stone
and provides clean lines that flow uninterrupted around the
room. Innovatively, the company also combines glass with
other natural finishes such as wood veneer to create warm
environments and add depths of texture to furniture.
Incorporating in its designs furniture from other leading
brands, such as Miele, Gaggenau, Elica and Dornbracht,
Halcyon Interiors provides homeowners with timeless styling
and inventive spaces that are intended to last the test of time. n
For more information, and to see examples of kitchen
designs, visit www.halcyoninteriors.com
interiors
concierge
73

exceeding your expectations
Luxury
Car Hire
Whether it’s for business, a special occasion,
test drive or just for fun, VIP Car Hire can
cater. We provide car hire from three days
to 12 months and our fleet includes Ferrari
458 & F430, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder,
Bentley GTC, Range Rovers and many more
all the way down to the Mini Cooper S.
We also offer a nationwide delivery
service with any of our cars.
contact@vipservices.co.uk
www.vipservices.co.uk
Tel: 020 7407 2121

Ralph Lauren has always
considered cars as art.
It’s not surprising, then,
that his automobile
collection features some
of the most beautiful
vehicles ever made
For our fashion issue, it is only fitting
that this page features an automotive
from one of the world’s most stylish
car collections, amassed by legendary
fashion designer Ralph Lauren. Built
in 1930 and capable of reaching 235 kilometres per
hour, the infamous seven litre straight-6-cylindered
Mercedes-Benz SSK ‘Count Trossi’ (pictured above,
bottom right) belongs to a collection of more than
60 automotive masterpieces owned by one of the
20th century’s most successful style kings.
Proving that Lauren’s appreciation of classic
design and creative flair transcends the fashion
feature ...............................................england rugby
motoring ...................................................................................evoque
interview ............................sir stirling moss
Fashion on Four wheels
world into the automobile arena, the collection
boasts some of the most prestigious sports cars ever
created. From a brawny 1929 Bentley “Blower” to a
streamlined 1996 McLaren F1 LM (one of only five
ever produced), the collection traces the story of the
sports vehicles over a period of seven decades.
Following the success of last month’s L’Art de
L’Automobile exhibition in Paris, where 17 cars
from the Ralph Lauren collection were displayed
for the first time, you can experience this exquisite
assembly of cars in the pages of Speed, Style and
Beauty, a breathtaking volume of 29 works of art
selected by the fashion designer himself. n
75

Gold Medal
There aren’t many of us who
can win a Gold Medal aged
20, and return to the same
sport aged 40 aiming to win
another next year. But that’s
exactly what Greg Searle is
attempting.
So how did he regain his
fitness whilst juggling a full
time job and a young family?
He used what little spare time
he had wisely…on a Concept2
Indoor Rower. The Concept2
is recognised worldwide as
providing one of the best all
body workouts available –
whether you’re an elite athlete
or a complete beginner.
Not everyone has to have the
same level of commitment
that Greg has (he snuck
away from the celebrations
on Christmas Day 2009 to
do a 5000m test in the spare
bedroom!). For us mere
mortals, just 20 minutes
Fitness
for Busy
People
three times a week promises
improved energy, better
fitness, and probably a
trimmer waistline. For those
willing to put in a little more
effort…the opportunities are
limitless…as Greg is hoping!
To find out more about the
Concept2 Indoor Rower and
how it would improve your
health & fitness visit our
website at concept2.co.uk
where you can download the
Free training guide, or create
your own interactive training
programme.
If you would like to talk to
one of our knowledgeable
staff please call 0115 945 5522
today or you could check out
what Greg Searle is up to on
www.concept2.co.uk/greg
ROWING
Concept2 Limited Vermont House Nottingham NG11 7HQ | 0115 945 5522 | info@concept2.co.uk | www.concept2.co.uk

sports
news
firSt beckS, now rafa
Following in the wake of sporting legends David
Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Nadal
has become the latest superstar to bare almost all
for Emporio Armani so fans can get the look.
Fronting the Emporio Armani Underwear and
Armani Jeans S/S11 collection, the two-time
Wimbledon winner and current world number
two cuts an impressive figure in a series of black
and white stills shot by fashion photographers
Mert Alas and Marcus Piggot. Nadal may be
renowned for his reserved on-court attitude but
the tennis champ appears anything but shy in
these sultry pictures.
www.armani.com
polo in the city
England’s polo players celebrated the close of the
polo season in style this summer. In an event hosted
by the team’s official tailor, Tony Lutwyche, players
provided city workers with a treat when they took
part in a pop-up polo match in Mayfair.
Kitted out in ‘Made in England’ Lutwyche
blazers, captain Luke Tomlinson, James Beim and
Malcolm Borwick took to their horses to play
several chukkas outside Lutwyche’s Clifford Street
store, before moving the game onto nearby Old
Bond Street and Savile Row.
As the owner of the only UK workshop capable
of making authentically English suits at the luxury
end of the market, Lutwyche has been hailed as the
man who saved high-end English tailoring.
www.lutwyche.co.uk
sports
calibre
Styling the nation
Who said the Olympics had to be
all about sport? Bringing a touch
of fashion to the 2012 Games will
be Stella McCartney who has been
appointed creative director for the
adidas Team GB clothing ranges. It
will be the first time a sports brand
has worked with a top fashion
designer to produce competition
wear for both the Olympic and
Paralympic Teams.
“As a British fashion designer
it is an amazing, once in a lifetime
opportunity,” said McCartney, who
will oversee the design of both the
athletes’ kit and a special edition
adidas Team GB lifestyle range. We
look forward to seeing the touch of
style McCartney will undoubtedly
bring to the sporting proceedings.
from catwalk
to croquet
Croquet just got fashionable.
Adorned with Chanel’s signature
white and black colours, this eyecatching
wood croquet set, with
aged calfskin trunk, will prove a
stylish addition to even the most
glamorous of garden parties.
Stepping off the catwalk and into
the world of sport, the fashion
house presents a range of athletic
accessories that includes lacquered
graphite tennis rackets, rosewood
and aluminium parabolic skis and
even a monochrome carbon-fibre
surf board. The elegantly designed
and beautifully styled sporting
accessories will be available in
Chanel stores this autumn.
www.chanel.com
Sporting Soundbite:
When you feel like you’ve
nothing else to give, the scream
of the fans gives you that
extra bit of adrenaline.
england rugby Star Shontayne hape
on england fanS
77

In PursuIt of Glory
Twenty of the world’s top rugby nations will descend on New Zealand this month to
compete for the sport’s biggest prize. Richard Brown met three England players hoping
to be named in Martin Johnson’s 30 man World Cup squad
Memories of the last Rugby World Cup final
will sit particularly poignantly in the mind
of Mark Cueto. Four years ago, he was the
man who carried the ball – along with the
hopes of a nation – over the South African
try line only to have his dreams dashed when the match’s
television official deemed his leg to have entered touch before
the ball was grounded.
That judgment may still remain a topic of debate. What’s not
in question is the fact that seven matches against the world’s
toughest rugby nations stand in the way of England claiming
their second Rugby World Cup. Joining Cueto in the hope of
repeating the scenes of jubilation that greeted the final whistle of
the 2003 final will be rugby league-turned-union international
Shontayne Hape and England newbie Tom Wood. Last month,
I travelled to the team’s state-of-the-art Surrey training ground
to talk to the trio about their pre-tournament preparation and
the teams to look out for in New Zealand.
What will prove key to England’s success at the Rugby
World Cup?
Mark Cueto: It’s an old sporting cliché but taking every
game as it comes. We mustn’t look too far ahead. Always
look after the next game and the bigger picture will fall into
place. From the start, every game is massive.
Shontayne Hape: It’s about having the belief. Every team
that’s heading out to New Zealand is going there to compete.
We have to build on the performances we put together during
the Autumn tests and the 6 Nations. The last time we won the
World Cup was in a year that we had won the Grand Slam.
This year we’ve won the 6 Nations so we’re on the right path.
Tom Wood: Preparation is always the key and ours has been
pretty intense. We’ve been doing a lot of rugby-specific training
rather than just lifting weights. There’s been a strong element of
wrestling and grappling. It’s also about focus. It’s different to a
one-off test match, where you turn up on the day, perform and
that’s the end of it. We’ve got to stay at the top of our game for
a long period of time. Mental focus is going to be crucial.
Which teams are to be most feared?
TW: Fear’s the wrong word. The toughest team to play
at a World Cup is perhaps France – and I guess that’s a
potential quarterfinal for us. We can beat France comfortably
on any given day but they are always capable of pulling out a
big performance. When they’re on fire, they are hard to stop.
SH: Having made it to the final on the last two occasions,
there will be a lot of expectation on England. Of course
you’ve got the world number ones playing on home soil, then
there’s Australia and South Africa who are always superb.
We recently saw how Samoa upset the Wallabies so there’s
also a lot of underrated talent out there.
MC: New Zealand will be favourites; there will be a huge
amount of support for them. That said, whoever you play is
going to provide a challenge. Romania, for example, will be
considered underdogs, but even against teams like that, there
are plenty of opportunities where it can all go wrong.
Which other ‘underdogs’ should we look out for?
MC: No one saw Samoa’s recent big win against Australia
coming and Argentina have a huge amount of quality. They

Shontayne Hape
Age 30
Caps 11
Team London Irish
Position Centre
Height 6’2”
Weight 16st 0lb
are a tough, hard working group of guys who will die for
each other.
TW: You almost write off teams like Georgia and Romania,
but in terms of physicality, teams like that really test you. Often
what you will see is that the fitness and professionalism of the
more established teams comes through to win the game, but it
can be an absolute dog fight. Wales haven’t been at their best
for a while but we know they’ve got quality players. Ireland has
a group of big name players who may only have one last big
tournament in them. It will mean a lot to those guys.
SH: In the run up to a World Cup you can only worry
about your own preparations. Argentina are up first and
are a strong team. That’s who we have to concentrate on
beating. After that, we take it from there.
How has the squad bonded in the run up to leaving for
New Zealand?
MC: We’re quite lucky; we’ve been together, generally, for
the last 18 months. From that point of view, we’re as settled
as any England team I’ve ever been in, on the field and off.
It’s not a case of having to do a huge amount of teambuilding;
most of the guys know each other pretty well.
TW: We’ve been for meals out and we’ve had a few social
events together. You forge a bond just by being in this camp.
How do you prepare the night before a big game?
MC: I’ve got loads [of rituals]. I’ve always been an OCD,
superstitious sort of guy. You start with two or three when
you’re 19 or 20 and by the time you’ve played as long as
I have, you’ve picked up quirks along the way. There are
things like shaving the day of games and sitting in a specific
seat in the coach on the way to matches. I make sure I’m the
last one out of the changing room, things like that.
TW: I’m bad at getting anxious and getting overly up for
it too early. I have to focus on reigning myself in and making
sure I peak during the game and not before.
SH: These will be the biggest games of my career so the
night before I just have to stay as relaxed as I can. I try to chill
out, listen to music, that sort of thing.
What’s going through your head during
the national anthem before kick off?
TW: God, it’s one of the best feelings.
It’s a realisation of a dream. My debut
game was away in the Millennium
Stadium. The noise in that place! 80,000
people with the stadium roof on... I can
hardly describe the emotion. You want
to make sure you do yourself justice and
that you’re a credit to your country. It’s
a feeling you never want to have taken
away from you.
SH: You’ve just run out at
Twickenham. You’re about to represent
not only yourself but everyone who’s
supporting you; your family, your
Tom Wood
Age 24
Caps 5
Team Northampton Saints
Position Back Row
Height 6’5”
Weight 16st 7lb
interview
Mark Cueto
calibre
Age 31
Caps 50
Team Sale Sharks
Position Wing
Height 6’0”
Weight 14st 11lb
friends, the buddies next to you. It’s the moment before
battle, the adrenaline’s pumping, you just want to get out
there and do the best that you can.
How much support do the England fans provide?
SH: They’re immense, at Twickenham especially. Playing
France during the 6 Nations was a massive game for us. I
remember there were 80,000 fans singing Swing Low, Sweet
Chariot. When you’re tired and your lungs are busted and you
feel like you have nothing else to give, you hear the scream of
the fans and it gives you that extra bit of adrenaline.
TW: When you’re in the heat of it and you hear the roar
go up as someone makes a break, or scores a try, that’s the
moment you step back, take it all in and realise exactly what
environment you’re in.
The New Zealand Prime Minister described you as ‘a bunch
of wannabes’ and Jonah Lomu called you ‘imitators’ when it
was announced you would be sporting the black away kit in
the opening game. What’s your response?
MC: It’s a kit. England bring out a new kit every year. It
makes no difference if it’s black, white, red, blue or purple.
TW: Water off a duck’s back. It’s got a rose on it. It’s an
England kit.
The 2012 Olympic Games take place in London next year. If
you could compete in and win any event, what would it be?
MC: It would have to be the 100 metre final wouldn’t it?
That’s the grand finale, that’s the one people talk about.
SH: It would be quite nice to beat Usain Bolt!
TW: Everyone wants to be crowned the fastest man
or woman in the world but I’d like to win one of the less
popular ones, archery maybe. I used to think of myself as a
little Robin Hood as a kid.
SH: Archery?! He’s on another planet. The lad’s taken too
many knocks to the head! n
Shontayne, Mark and Tom were speaking at the Investec
International between England and Wales on 6 August.
www.investec.co.uk
All images courtesy of Action Images
79

TUNNEL
of Love
Matthew Carter falls head over heels for Evoque, the first ‘baby’ Range Rover
advise you to wind the window up,” says the genial
guide, resplendent in the cleanest hi-vis jacket I’ve ever
seen. We’re stopped at the entrance to the disused Edge
Hill railway tunnel running beneath the streets of one of
“I’d
the grottier parts of Liverpool.
The tunnel was built in 1836, though the track has long
been removed. What’s left is two kilometres of rutted pathway
littered with industrial debris, muddy in parts and with a
bonnet-high lake at the far end to wade through. It’s dark: no
sunlight has made it through here in almost two centuries and
goodness knows what’s dripping through the structure from
above. “All I know is that it’s brown… that’s why I advise
you keep your windows up,” says our man. That’s the sort of
advice you heed.
We’re here because it forms part of the test route devised
to launch to new Range Rover Evoque to the press. Edge
Hill tunnel is normally off-limits and no wheeled transport
has been through it for decades but Land Rover is important
around here – Evoque (it rhymes with Coke) is built at LR’s
plant in nearby Halewood – and gets what it wants (dinner
last night was held in Liverpool Cathedral, one of the more
surreal ‘restaurants’ I’ve ever been to).
Testing though it is, there’s no doubting the new Evoque will
make it through this bizarre piece of urban off-road terrain. After
all, we spent the previous day driving from Anglesey’s airstrip
(home to one William Wales and his new missus) and driven
on- and off-road across vast swathes of North Wales to get to the
‘Pool. Based as it is on the hugely capable Land Rover Freelander,
there was never any worry that the gullies, slippery tracks,
muddy hills and forest pathways would stop the sophisticated,
electronically controlled four-wheel drive chassis.
Evoque is blessed with Land Rover Terrain Response. You
just dial in the surface ahead – be it mud, wet grass, sand
or rocks – and the electronics work out the ideal drivetrain
settings. You also get Hill Descent Control which uses the
ABS and engine braking to inch you down steep inclines; the
driver need do nothing other than steer. But the thing is, in
real life Evoque is as likely to see a dirt track as the Beckhams

are to go on a camping holiday, and the Beckham reference
is relevant, as we’ll see in a moment. Evoque was far more at
home in (and under) Liverpool.
The clue lies in the badge. This is a Range Rover and not a
Land Rover. Although just as capable as any four-wheel drive
from the company, it majors on style and comfort more than its
ability to get down and dirty. And it does the job. Everywhere
we went in Liverpool (and we went to some strange places – the
tunnel was followed by a run through a water splash in the
Albert Docks in the centre of town), it turned heads. Much of
this is down to its concept car looks. There are two versions of
Evoque, a five-door and a rakish three-door that Land Rover
likes to call a Coupé, no doubt to justify the extra £1,000 it’s
asking for two fewer doors.
But it’s this Coupé version that really does the business.
Little changed from the LRX concept car of a few years back,
this is a film star of a car. The exterior is a wonderful mix of
rugged and sophisticated with the roofline swooping down at
the rear to the point where it almost meets the rising waistline;
the rear window is more of a letterbox. That dramatic roof
line grabs a fair amount of headroom in the rear, though the
rear seats have been cleverly sculpted so that adults will fit;
mind you, getting there though the tiny slot behind the folded
front seat takes a degree of flexibility that not everyone over
the age of 16 may still possess.
Once inside, though, the cabin is spectacular. The driving
position is 4x4 high yet still manages to feel low and sporty.
In part that’s down to the rakish centre console, the hooded
dash instruments, the circular auto gear selector and, if you’re
prepared to pay a little extra, the sports seats which wouldn’t
look out of place in a racing car. The materials used are first
class and the fit and finish is as good as anything from Audi
or BMW but then this is a Range Rover, after all. And there’s
plenty of opportunity to personalise the interior. There are three
interior ‘themes’ – Pure, Dynamic and Prestige – and there are
others to come, including one created by Victoria Beckham; let’s
just hope she doesn’t go the Footballers’ Wives route.
There’s substance as well as style. We’ve already seen
how good it is off-road, but it’s even better on-road. On the
motorways, the 190bhp diesel is quiet, refined and punchy
while the ride, especially with the optional MagneRide which
uses electrically charged magnets in the dampers to simulate
the ride comfort expected from an air suspension system,
really works. Evoque handles well, too. There’s precious little
body roll and it feels more like a hot hatch than a 4x4: it’s no
wonder Land Rover is targeting owners of cars like the Audi
TT. And yet those chunky wheel and tyres and the greater
ground clearance mean Evoque handles speed bumps and city
potholes with aplomb.
In fact, the only thing I can find wrong with the thing
is the price. You’ll see adverts claiming prices start at
£28,000, which doesn’t sound too bad except that’s for
the basic-spec two-wheel drive version. The well-equipped
Dynamic SD4 (the 190bhp one with 20 inch alloys, Xenon
lamps, Sat Nav, rear parking camera and so on) starts
at damn near £40k. And that’s before you’ve so much
as looked at the option list (though the full length glass
panoramic roof is a bargain at £460).
It’s a lot for a four-cylinder diesel. But judging by the
bulging order books and the long waiting lists Land Rover
knows exactly what it’s doing with Evoque. I want one. n
IN BRIEF
CaR:
Range Rover Evoque
Coupé SD4 Dynamic Auto
PRICE:
£39,990
ENgINE:
2,179 cc four-cylinder
diesel
PowER:
190 hp
DRIvE:
Four-wheel drive
PERFoRmaNCE:
121 mph max, 0-60 mph in
8.0secs
motoring
calibre
81

calibre special event
And the Winners Are…
We have given eight lucky readers the chance to swap the boardroom for the track
and compete in the Porsche Power of 4 Challenge. Richard Brown reports
In July we teamed up with the Porsche Centre in Canary Wharf to offer our
readers the opportunity to compete in Porsche’s The Power of 4 Challenge
– a team-based event that comprises numerous driving challenges,
incorporating both circuit-based and off-road activities, and promises to
test competitors’ driving prowess and mental agility to the limit.
Having asked our readers to send in 75 words explaining exactly why they
should be chosen to represent their company in The Power of 4 Challenge,
along with the names of their three potential teammates, we were inundated
with responses.
After working through entries sent in from the likes of HSBC – the team
dreamed of “a day away from it all; racing around a track filled with fast cars
and hopefully beautiful women… fantasising that we’re like The Stig” – and
Property Book (a team of veteran track-day goers who longed for the chance
to“show the German manufacturer how their cars should be driven”), we
picked two lucky winners.
82
Congratulations to the lucky winners:
Hailing from different parts of our
corporate bank, but with diverse and keen
interests in motorsport and all things ‘car’,
we hope to concentrate this diversity into
an unbeatable Scandinavian Flick winning
team. What unites us is a desire to win
that burns hotter than a 911 Carrera RS.
Competing in the challenge will enable us
to exercise this passion in a constructive
and fun way. We hope to learn much and
win everything.
Nigel Barton, Citigroup
“Racing; it’s life. Everything that comes
before or after is just waiting.” While,
admittedly, we may not possess the
same sex appeal as the legendary
Steve McQueen, we certainly agree
with the words he immortalised in the
iconic LeMans. With Jenson Button and
Lewis Hamilton holding their own amongst
the world’s F1 elite, let us prove there’s
another four men in England that know
what they’re doing behind the wheel!
Daniel Rider, Barclays Wealth
On hearing the good news, Nigel said, “The Citi Flickers team
is raring to go and honoured to be invited. We’ve heard that
driving at the Porsche Experience Centre is a once in a lifetime
opportunity for petrol heads. Team tactics will be developed as
we’ll be preparing to win in the usual low key, publicity averse
Citi way!” Daniel was “really excited about winning; now a
degree of trepidation is setting in as it’s a competition!”
The two winning teams will join ten other groups to compete
in The Power of 4 Challenge at the Porsche Experience Centre,
Silverstone, on 23 September where they will be provided with
the unique opportunity of driving all five Porsche models. Before
then, the 48 drivers will be invited to attend an exclusive preevent
briefing on 8 September in Canary Wharf. n
Porsche Centre East London, 20 Canada Square, Canary Wharf
For more information call 020 7718 5242
or email info@porschecanarywharf.co.uk

Life in the fast Lane
Matthew Carter talks
to motor racing legend
Sir Stirling Moss about
retirement, modern F1,
London and how he got
that name
For most 81-year-olds, a drive in the
country usually means a gentle run in a
family hatchback down a leafy B-road
on a summer afternoon. For Sir Stirling
Moss OBE, however, it means racing
his Porsche RS61 in the Le Mans Legends
event. Or rather, it used to mean racing at Le
Mans. This year Moss drove back to the pits
in the middle of qualifying, got out of the car
and announced his retirement. “I scared myself
and I always said that if I felt I was not up to
it or that I was getting in the way of fellow
competitors, then I would retire,” he said.
The decision brought to an end a remarkable
career that began in 1948 when he was just 18.
Between then and 1962 he took part in 529
races, winning 212 of them. He won the British
Grand Prix twice and the Monaco Grand Prix
three times. He also won the great road races of
the era – the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio
– as well as top sports car races like the Tourist
Trophy. Just about the only race he didn’t win
was the Le Mans 24 Hours. “I hated Le Mans.
Back then it wasn’t a race… I was a racing
driver yet I was being told to drive carefully
rather than race. I was told not use too many
revs to preserve the engine, to be gentle with
the brakes. I couldn’t be doing with that. These
days, it is most definitely a race.”
Moss never won the Formula 1 World
Championship either. He got closest in 1958
when he missed the title by one point. He won
the last race of the season but the six points
Mike Hawthorn claimed for coming second
was enough to give his British rival the title,
even though Moss won four races that season
to Hawthorn’s one. He never got as close again,
finishing third in the title fight in 1959, 1969
and 1961 largely because he preferred to drive
British cars, even if they were outclassed by the
German or Italian opposition. He said at the
time: “It’s better to lose honourably in a British
car than win in a foreign one.”
Today he explains his rationale. “You’ve got
to remember that back then memories of the war
were still fresh in people’s minds and patriotism
was all important. Whenever I could I drove
British.” His top-flight career finished, however,
at Goodwood in 1962, when he had a high speed
accident in a Lotus. The crash put him in a coma
for a month, partially paralysed the left side of
his body for six and led to his (first) retirement.
Even though he was no longer an active racing
driver, his name remained a byword for speed.
Time after time police would stop an errant
motorist with the words: “Who do you think
you are, Stirling Moss?” It even happened to
Moss himself, “though I’m not sure whether
the policeman was taking the piss or not.” Was
he speeding? “Er, can’t remember,” comes the
cautious reply. Either way, he has his father to
thank for ‘the greatest advert’ he could have
wished for, his memorable moniker. “My mother
wanted to call me Hamish,” he recalls, “but
my father, thankfully, wouldn’t hear of it. I was
named after my mother’s home town in Scotland.”

Sir Stirling made a racing comeback in 1980
driving an Audi in the British Touring Car
Championship alongside team-mate, a young
Martin Brundle. It was not a success. “The
worst decision I ever made. It was the first time
I’d raced a front-wheel drive car and my first
time on slick tyres.” More success – and much
more fun – came with a subsequent move to
historic racing, Moss campaigning the sort of
cars he raced when they were new.
Although he has now announced his (second)
retirement, he won’t stray too far from the
racetrack, remaining an insightful commentator
on modern F1. “This season seems to be very
exciting though I do worry there are too many
‘gizmos’ that can affect the result, such as the
moveable wings and so on.” But he is a fan of
KERS – the Kinetic Energy Recovery System,
which uses energy created under braking to
recharge a battery-powered electric motor to give
a brief burst of extra power for overtaking. “It’s
something for nothing, isn’t it? Every road car will
have a similar system in the near future,” he says.
Speaking of road cars, Moss has always
preferred small city cars when driving around
London. He was one of the first to own a Mini
back in the Sixties and today has just presented
Lady Moss – his wife Susie – with a compact
Aston Martin Cygnet which wears his famous
number plate SM 7. And he remains resolutely
a Londoner. Not even at the height of his fame
was he tempted to move to a tax haven overseas.
“Good heavens, no. London is the centre of the
world. It was, and is, the only place to live.”
Sir Stirling has lived in Mayfair since the 1950s
and built his current house on Shepherd Street
in the early 60s. “I was very fortunate to get one
of the last bomb sites in the centre of Mayfair,
south facing and in a cul de sac, where I was able
to build my house.” Famously full of high-tech
gadgets, it was here that Moss had another, more
recent, accident. He went to step into the lift but
it had failed to arrive and he fell to the bottom
of the shaft, damaging his ankles. “Susie was
magnificent. She ran down the stairs almost as
fast as I fell to comfort me. I was very fortunate
that an ambulance was in the neighbourhood and
whisked me to hospital in no time.”
Now fully recovered, he will continue to do
demonstration runs at events like the Goodwood
Revival. Sir Stirling is also looking forward
to Chelsea AutoLegends, an event of which
he is the Patron. Held in the grounds of the
Royal Hospital, Chelsea – home of the Chelsea
Pensioners – on Sunday 4 September, Chelsea
AutoLegends provides a remarkable showcase
of some of the most iconic competition cars and
bikes ever built. Le Mans racers, historic rally
cars, supercars and classic bikes will all be on
show. With countless other special displays, 50th
birthday celebrations for the E-type Jaguar and
Photograph: Matt Sills
Sir Stirling Moss in the Oscar. Photograph: Matt Sills
Mini Cooper, plus fairground rides, food stalls
and a Swingin’ Sixties theme, it’s an event for all
the family. The event also helps raise money for
the Royal Hospital.
“I went to the first AutoLegends show last
year and loved it. There were so many fabulous
cars and familiar faces there, that I was delighted
when they asked me to be Patron this year.
London deserves a show like this and if you miss
it, you’ll be missing something special.”
He might have retired, but Sir Stirling shows
no sign of slowing down. n
www.chelseaautolegends.com
interview
calibre
85

ONE-TO-ONE
Go further with the world’s most
recognised business degree
One-to-One and small group meetings
with top-ranked MBA programmes
Free GMAT Test Preparation Advising
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LONDON
September 28th
MBA EVENT

Burberry is now one
of the world’s top five
global luxury brands
and American CEO
Angela Ahrendts has
been instrumental in the
company’s financial success
Less than ten years ago, Burberry had
all but lost its luxury reputation
and its iconic, distinctive check had
become ubiquitous to the point of
saturation. Ahrendts came on board
in 2006 and the tide at once began to turn. She
removed the Burberry check from all but 10
per cent of items and worked closely with chief
creative designer Christopher Bailey to restore
Burberry’s distinctive British heritage and design
credibility. She also placed great importance on
innovative digital technology; Burberry was the
first label to simulcast a 3-D runway show and its
interview.........................................MICHELLE MONE
personal.finance................................................... BbBuBBLES
investment...........................................................................................GOLd
BRITISH FASHION GONE GLOBAL
www.theartofthetrench.com website has attracted
thousands of uploads. 7.5 million Facebook page
‘likes’ for Burberry speak for themselves.
When the recession hit, Ahrendts understood
exactly what needed to be done and that
speed was crucial. As a result, Burberry defied
the odds; stock doubled in value in 2009,
outperforming every other UK company and
resulting in a brand worth £4.36 billion.
Today, Burberry is driven by innovative design,
digital marketing and retail-led strategies. In
the first quarter trading update of 2011, total
revenue was £367 million, up 34 per cent. n
87

THE
ULTIMO DREAM
Annabel Harrison speaks to Michelle Mone OBE about
business, building the Ultimo brand and Erin Brockovich

Ultimo is one of the UK’s leading designer lingerie
brands, both in stores across the UK and online.
Launched in 1999, Ultimo was innovative in its
patented use of silicone gel in its bras and the
Miracle Solutions Plunge Bra was famously worn by Julia
Roberts in Erin Brockovich, drawing global attention to the
brand. In 2001, HRH Prince Charles invited Michelle to
join the Board of Directors for The Princes Scottish Youth
Business Trust and more recently his Board of Main Council.
Ultimo was the first UK lingerie brand to debut on the
catwalk at New York Fashion Week in 2009 and this year
has seen impressive growth for the company, including a new
presence in Selfridges and expansion into fashion and beauty.
How did your career start?
I left school when I was 15 with no qualifications. My
father had woken up paralysed from the waist down so I got
a job with Labatt [Brewer’s] and started as a junior admin
girl. I always have a goal and my goal was to be running
Labatt Scotland within three years. My mum and dad always
said to me; “think big – do big things, not small things.” I
was promoted to Director of Scotland, working my way up
15 positions, within two years.
Then I was made redundant because Labatt’s sold out to
Whitbread UK. That’s when I went to a dinner dance one
night wearing an uncomfortable bra and I had a light bulb
moment. That was it. I always wanted my own business. I
didn’t have any knowledge of the clothing industry but when
you’re really determined, you can do it.
Having left school at 15, do you think further education isn’t
for everyone?
I think education is really important and something I
wanted to do was to go to Uni. A degree will show people
you have the ability to learn, and the theory part, but the
practice part is what makes you successful. When we have
graduates come into our business, some of them have that
get-up-and-go attitude but some think they have the right to
earn X amount of money because they went to Uni for three
or four years. No, you haven’t – that’s the theory part. Now
you have to start at the bottom and work your way up.
Did you ever dream that Selfridges would sell the pre-launch
estimate of six weeks of stock within 24 hours?
Not at all – I was really surprised. I’d just had my third
baby and I signed myself out of hospital for the launch
because she came a month early... Looking back, I think,
how did I do all that? But I look a few years back and I think
how did I do all that then too? It’s not all been in the right
direction – lots of mistakes, highs and lows – the best highs I
have ever had and the lowest part of my life as well.
How would you sum up the typical Ultimo woman?
A woman who is independent, glamorous and makes the
most of herself. She cares about her body, whether size 8 or
22 – that’s why we started the Real Women campaign. We’ve
worked with some of the most famous women in the world
[Helena Christensen, Kelly Brook, Rachel Hunter] but I
wanted customers to be part of the campaign as well.
If you could go back and do anything differently, would you?
Trusting a distributor and handing over the rights to
interview
America, Canada and Australia. They were fraudsters and
it almost sent the company bust – they ran away with £1.6
million and six months of stock. We had to pull out of America
because of it. But if I hadn’t gone through that, I wouldn’t be
the person I am today so things happen for a reason.
How much did the recession affect you and your business?
It has hit us and the way we’ve got around it is by starting
up new brands. Joint ventures with Tesco and Asda, and our
own brand with Debenhams, so we own eight brands. And
inventions are key. We’ve done 12 inventions now and that’s
where our niche is; we do things no one else does. We’ve
started up Ultimo Couture – cocktail dresses, long evening
gowns – and we’ve been working on perfume, beauty, body
lotion, candles. The perfume launches in January next year
and it’s been a huge investment but it’s part of my goal to
turn Ultimo into a lifestyle brand and not just a niche lingerie
brand. The name is fantastic, the brand is so well known and
it’s in the press just about every day. Why Ultimo? I wanted
something that would say ‘the best’.
How have you juggled work and motherhood during the
course of your career?
I speak all round the world now. I never thought I’d be a
speaker but, in my coaching, I talk about how you can be
very successful in your career and as a mum and as a wife.
You can do all three. If you want to be successful, you can’t
leave the office at five – what you put into your job, you’ll
get back. Then again, you can’t leave your kids to fend for
themselves and you can’t neglect your marriage so you’ve got
to be good at all three. I do my best – I’m not superwoman
but I try... It’s a juggling game every single day.
What has been the highlight of your career?
Being awarded an OBE by the Queen [for contribution
to business] was such an incredible honour. Being brought
up in the heart of the east end of Glasgow and going to
Buckingham Palace... That’s the proudest moment. And Julia
Roberts wearing the Ultimo bra in Erin Brockovich.
What qualities do you think are most essential in being
successful in business?
Get-up-and-go, fire in the belly, a can-do attitude, a team
leader, someone that you can trust who can think on their
own feet and really contribute. When they leave on a Friday,
they leave saying, ‘Look what I’ve achieved this week’. If
they have that, and they know they have to work hard, they
can be successful. I’ve always delivered and that’s why I got
promoted – all the way up... Just do it, like the Nike adverts.
Who have been your role models in business?
When I was growing up, my friends had Duran Duran on
their walls and I had Richard Branson. I just wanted to be him
– I think he’s fantastic and so are the brands he has created.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into the
world of business and fashion?
Don’t overpromise and under-deliver. We never ever do
that. Keep surprising your customers, in a good way – make
them want your product and get their attention. n
www.ultimo.co.uk
comment
89

comment investment
90
All That
Glitters?
Adrian Lowcock,
Senior Investment
Adviser at BestInvest,
explores a question
facing many investors
In just over a decade the gold price has rocketed
481 per cent (peak to trough). For some it’s
been a profitable ride but with the gold price
now back around its all-time high, the question
remains; is it still a wise investment?
The answer to this question is more complicated
for gold than other metals because of its perception
as the ultimate store of wealth. This creates an
intangible value which, of course, varies for each
investor. By contrast, the main sources of gold
demand and supply have varied very little. Gold
mine production has increased only slightly year on
year for the past ten and given that new mines take
up to a decade to become operational, and that
discoveries of new deposits are falling, this means
mining alone is unlikely to produce a significant
increase in supply. Until now, scrap gold has been
the main source of new supply although it’s not
expected to increase significantly from now.
Additionally, demand for gold has changed
recently. The most telling change has been in
relation to central banks in the developed world;
these had been transferring gold to emerging
markets, with China, Russia and India all
markedly increasing their gold ownership. But
while the appetite for gold among emerging
market central banks remains undiminished
– they still own far less than the OECD
(Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development) average because the OECD banks
no longer wish to sell.
Last year, for example, the IMF (International
Monetary Fund) was the only major global
financial institution to sell some of its reserves and
almost all of the 403.3 metric tonnes were bought
by India and China. This is quite a sea change for
the gold market as central banks are now a source
of demand. This will help support the gold price
and should provide some reassurance to investors
as to the long-term demand picture. The long-term
supply picture is also broadly supportive. This is
because new deposits tend to be in more marginal
areas and, frequently, in politically unstable parts
of the world.
The recent surge in demand for gold exchange
traded funds (ETFs) provides a good indication
of how great an influence more intangible factors
continue to have on the gold price. ETF demand
accounted for 7.3 per cent of global gold supplies
in 2010 and 14.6 per cent in 2009. This is a
considerable new source of demand which has
also helped to drive the gold price. However, this
effect could be reversed.
These dynamics have pushed specialist gold
funds to the top of the performance tables over
the last year and, in the current environment,
it’s difficult to see why the gold price should fall
substantially. Quantitative easing has devalued
all major currencies relative to gold, although
this is likely to end soon. Meanwhile, markets
remain concerned about inflation to which gold is
perceived as a good hedge. More broadly, the gold
price also benefits from geopolitical unrest and
there is no shortage of this on today’s world stage.
Gold can therefore be considered a reasonable
inclusion in a diversified portfolio, even at current
prices, although it would be unwise to extrapolate
gold’s recent outperformance.
Our view
The introduction of gold-based ETF’s has
created a new breed of investor which has helped
drive the price of gold up over the last decade.
However these investors can easily sell should
their view change which would cause a collapse
in the price of gold. As such, investors should be
cautious of using the past performance of gold
as an indicator to the future gains. In the current
conditions we prefer accessing gold through
investing in companies that mine gold as opposed
to the underlying metal itself. The price of gold
mining companies remains cheaper relative to the
current gold price and therefore offers a chance
for better returns. n

How To
Spot A
Bubble
Dr David Kuo of The Motley
Fool sets out the telltale signs
of an investing bubble
When you mention the word bubble, some
people might think of pretty, shimmery air
globules. Others might think of Michael
Jackson’s chimpanzee. However, in the investing
world, bubbles are formed when the price of an
asset grows beyond what is generally accepted as
being rational. Investing bubbles are not a new
phenomenon: they have, in fact, existed since as
far back as 1623 when ‘Tulipomania’ gripped
the Netherlands. At that time, a single tulip bulb
was selling for seven times the average annual
wage and some farmers were selling tulips that
hadn’t even been planted. However, it seems that
for no particular reason, the price of tulips began
to fall 14 years later, in 1637, and within days,
thousands of tulip traders were ruined.
Tulipomania is only one of many bubbles that
have caught investors on the hop. Others include
The South Sea Company in 1720, Victorian
Railways in the 1830s and, of course, the Internet,
or tech-bubble, at the turn of the Millennium.
More recently, we have seen the formation and
bursting of online gambling, or more specifically
the poker bubble, and right now, we are watching
the bursting of the sovereign debt bubble before
our very eyes. Interestingly, the formation of
investing bubbles tends to follow very predictable
lines. Here are a few telltale signs.
Everyone making money: When the price of
an asset rises rapidly, and when it seems that
everyone is making money without any rhyme
or reason, this could be a clear sign that a
bubble is forming. Think back to the days when
internet gaming sites floated on the London
stock market in quick session, and some shares
rose as much as 50 per cent on the first day of
trading. It seemed that traders were on a feeding
frenzy, buying almost every new internet gaming
company that came to market indiscriminately.
Dr David Kuo, Director at popular financial website The Motley Fool
www.Fool.co.uk
personal finance
comment
Growth will be forever: Bubble logic dictates that
forecast for growth can be sustained for many
years to come. Remember the days when property
speculators would make money simply by buying
houses and flats off plan? In other words, they
would make money even before the property was
built. Often, you will find that valuations are made
using “finger in the air” analyses, rather than
studying the market carefully. The reality, though,
is that the projections are at best optimistic and
at worst just wrong. Consequently, growth can
slow significantly or even come to an abrupt halt
without any warning. However, any attempt at
trying to introduce even a modicum of logic into
an irrational situation is generally dismissed as
curmudgeonly behaviour by ardent proponents.
Ordinary businesses shunned: As ‘bubblemania’
takes hold, there is often evidence that traditional
businesses will be put on the back burner. Just
look at how, when the poker bubble was at its
most inflated, television stations were broadcasting
poker games at the expense of other programmes,
and it was reported at the time that one cable
channel broadcast poker instead of traditional
sports events.
Assets bought to sell, not for return: The biggest
telltale sign of a bubble is when people with little
or no knowledge about an investment pour huge
amounts of money into the investment, hoping to
make a quick turn rather than a stable return.
It is sometimes said that just because a bubble is
inflating doesn’t mean you can’t make money from
it. That may be true, but the problem is that it is
always difficult to see a bubble from the inside. So,
when you hear the phrase “This time it’s different”
repeated many times over, then it is time to take
note, take cover and take flight, because you have
no way of knowing when the bubble will burst. n
91

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The
Equality
Act
How far can employers go
under Positive Discrimination
and Positive Action provisions
under the Equality Act?
Clare Murray investigates
The short answer to this question is not
very far at all. While some media headlines
announcing the new provisions under the
Equality Act (the “Act”) suggested that white
males would no longer be able to find jobs as
a result of new laws, the reality under English
law is a far cry from those sensational stories.
Positive discrimination remains extremely
rare and, whilst the Act has introduced new
positive action provisions, these remain
voluntary for private sector employers and are
much narrower in scope than the concept of
positive discrimination.
Unsurprisingly, the concept of positive
discrimination – giving preferential treatment
to a particular group, for example women or
individuals of a certain races or religions – has
long been a controversial one. The concept
is not, however, new; for example, the right
of women on maternity leave to be given
preferential treatment in redundancy situations
and allowing employers to give preference to
individuals with certain protected characteristics
where there is an “occupational requirement”
(for example, for the role of Othello to be played
by a black male) existed prior to the Act coming
into force in October 2010.
The two new positive action provisions that
have been created by the Act are (1) the general
positive action provision; and (2) positive action
in relation to recruitment and promotion. The
general provision allows employers to take
proportionate measures to enable or encourage
people who are disadvantaged, have different
needs or are under-represented in a particular
activity, to overcome that disadvantage, meet
those needs or increase participation.
human resources
comment
Employers will need to be able to demonstrate
that those circumstances exist by reference to
evidence, although this need not be statistical.
In terms of the measures themselves, whether
or not these are proportionate will depend on
the seriousness of the disadvantage or underrepresentation,
as well as consideration of other
ways of achieving the same aim. A companymentoring
scheme aimed at students from underrepresented
groups within that organisation is
an example of positive action that is likely to be
protected by the general positive action provision.
The second provision is limited so as to only
allow employers to take action to treat a person
with a protected characteristic more favourably
than others for recruitment or promotion
purposes, where the individual with the protected
characteristic is “as qualified” as those others.
Further, the employer must “reasonably” think
that the person with that protected characteristic
suffers a disadvantage connected with the
protected characteristic, or be under-represented
in their workforce and be taking action with
the aim of overcoming or minimising the
disadvantage or under-representation.
In reality, it is likely to be very rare that an
employer will be left deciding between two
candidates of equal merit and the Act prohibits
a policy being put in place whereby persons
are treated more favourably regardless of merit
and experience. Whilst we continue, therefore,
to be a long way off adopting anything like the
affirmative action provisions of the US, the Act
does open the door to employers who might wish
to address under-representation of, for example,
female board members, without putting to one
side the issue of merit. n
Clare Murray is Managing Partner at specialist employment and partnership law firm CM Murray LLP.
She can be contacted at clare.murray@cm-murray.com or 020 7718 0090. The contents of this column are
for general purposes only. Specialist legal advice should be taken regarding specific circumstances.
95

Mojito Monday
Only £6 for a refreshing
Cucumber, Classic,
Raspberry or Blackberry
Mojito. Great start to the
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MODERN ITALIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR
F i v e D a y s a t 5 o ’ c l o c k
Temptation Tuesday
Homemade Pasta by
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choose any from our
tantalising menu for an
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Weekend Wednesday
Half way there –
so half price house
spirits.
Daily special offers conclude at 8pm
It’s Thursday
Half price on Pints – £3
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Just a five minute walk from the Canary Wharf station. Follow us on
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Citigroup

Perched on the Bukit
peninsula 160 metres above
sea level, Bulgari’s Bali
Resort exists as a unique
blend of traditional
Balinese design and
distinctive Italian style
Cliff Top paradise
Proving that the creative endeavours
of fashion houses can extend far
beyond clothes and jewellery, the
breathtaking Bulgari Resort in Bali
showcases what can be achieved
when the worlds of luxury hospitality and Italian
elegance collide. The fashion giant opened the
59 villa resort in 2006, just two years after the
Bulgari Hotels & Resorts collection launched
its debut property. After this success in Milan,
Bulgari turned to Bali to create an exclusive resort
that would be “true to its location and not just a
picturesque representation of it.”
travel..................................................................................siNGapore
food.&.drink..................................firsT ediTioN
out.&.about..............................................................................GHosT
Thanks to intricate design details, such as
hand-cut volcanic rock finishes, that’s exactly what
Bulgari has done. The landscape of the resort has
been designed with traditional Balinese yards in
mind while terraces follow the ground’s natural
inclination and site-specific plants adorn the hotel’s
gardens, where Balinese Frangipane trees blossom.
If enchanting sunset views across the Indian Ocean
don’t appeal, you can always take a lift down
to the resort’s private stretch of coastline where
dolphins can be spotted splashing in the sea. n
www.bulgarihotels.com
97

The sharpest suits
in the City have been
meeting here
for centuries
Located in the heart of the City for
over 900 years, the Tower of London
has played a central role in shaping
British history. Leading men of state
have been meeting at the Tower since
the time of William the Conqueror, a
tradition that continues today.
• Six venue areas that can
be used either alone or
in conjunction
• Space for 12 to 300 guests
• Rooms to suit all tastes
for both daytime and
evening events
© Royal Armouries
Discover dramatic surroundings at Historic Royal Palaces
Visit www.hrp.org.uk or call 0844 482 7777
Historic Royal Palaces corporate events:
Tower of London • Hampton Court Palace • Banqueting House • Kensington Palace • Kew Palace

travel
news
A chAnge of pAce
For the kind of travel experience that blends
fashion and far flung destinations you can’t do
better than the divine UXUA Casa Hotel on
Brazil’s breathtaking Bahian coast. Designed
and run by Wilbert Das, former creative director
of fashion label Diesel, this eco-chic retreat has
ten stunning casas offering the best in luxury
beachside living. Not only is it popular during
the heady party seasons of Christmas and
New Year but it also boasts sterling fashion
kudos, having been the setting of the 2011
Pirelli Calendar, shot by Terry Richardson.
Each casa is individually designed inside
and out with an architectural mix of Southern
Bahian and Indian influences alongside a
rustic modernism. Alongside the ten casas, the
resort’s lush, tropical grounds offer guests a
stunning aventurine quartz swimming pool, two
restaurants, a library, gym and spa.
www.uxuA.com
DesTinATion shopping
If you fancy some late summer sun in September,
but don’t want to miss your annual fashion fix
of London (or any) Fashion Week, then head
to Dubai, offering year-round sublime weather
coupled with an impressive attention to fashion
detail. The Avenues at the Atlantis Hotel is a
luxuriously colourful marketplace where you
can browse some of the world’s most iconic
brands in nearly 40 high-end boutiques. Lose
yourself in Rivoli, Paspaley and Tiffany & Co.
for the most sought-after names in jewellery,
pearls and diamonds. Head to Ondademar and
Hamac for the best in stylish beachwear, while B
More, Lacoste, Levant Couture and Rodeo Drive
showcase catwalk fashion for the whole family.
www.ATlAnTisThepAlm.com
Brought to you in association with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unsurpassable collection of over
500 hotels spanning 70 countries, which offer an infinite variety of experiences.
www.secretescapes.com
travel
connoisseur
cAmerA shy
Designed especially for professional
photographers, the new ultradiscreet
version of the Leica M9
is a special addition to the brand’s
exclusive range of photographic
equipment. The M9-P will be
available in a classic silver chrome
or subtle black paint finish and will
offer the same technical excellence
that you can expect from the
Leica range, including compact
size, full-frame, 18 megapixel 24
x 36mm sensor (35mm format),
sophisticated image processing and
robust construction. The M9-P
also includes a scratch-resistant,
sapphire crystal covering on the
LCD screen, making it extremely
resistant to wear and virtually
unbreakable. In addition, thanks to
an anti-reflective coating on both
sides of the cover, reviewing images
on the display during composition
and after capture is easy, even in
unfavourable lighting conditions.
from £5,395
www.leicA-sToremAyfAir.co.uk
TrAvel fAcT
During London Fashion Week, the
capital will play host to 65 catwalk
shows and 45 salon shows and
presentations in just six days.
Website of the month:
Anyone looking for great value
holiday breaks without compromising
on luxury should head here. This
members-only website runs exclusive
flash sales of four and five star hotels
and holidays with discounts of up to
70 per cent. All hotels are handpicked
and include a great selection of
idyllic country house hotels in the
UK and exclusive boutique European
destinations, as well
inclusive packages
for resorts
further afield.
99

All images courtesy of the Singapore Tourist Board
FormuLA Fun
Formula 1’s only night race returns to
Singapore this September. In preparation,
Bel Trew checks out the pit-stops of Asia’s
Lion City
motorsport’s sexiest
event, Formula 1,
is in the world’s
headlines again.
Bahrain’s event was
cancelled because of an uprising, F1
nearly got sold to news Corp, Ferrari
was accused of spying and to top it all
off, Prince Harry has reportedly nicked
Jenson’s ex.
This September the scandalous F1
returns to Singapore, a squeaky clean
city most famous for banning chewing
gum. But underneath its well-mannered
exterior is a city that is as silly as Dubai
and as fun as London. It helps that the
national language is English; Singapore
was ‘acquired’ from a local sultan by
a smooth-talking Brit, Sir Stamford
raffles, in the 1800s and it became the
jewel in the British Empire’s crown. In
1965 the tiny city-state, smaller than
London, gained independence under
a ‘benign’ dictatorship of parental
Pms. Stick to the rules (not flushing a
public toilet and bungee jumping are
serious offences) because otherwise you
could end up like British author Alan
Shadrake who was jailed for critiquing
Singapore’s use of capital punishment.
However controlling the government
is (the papers read like a parliamentary
press release), they did something right:
46 years later Singapore is one of the
top four financial centres in the world.
It’s no wonder all the big moguls are
migrating here like Facebook’s VP Jim
rogers, rolls-royce and LinkedIn.
Luckily for us, where there are men in
suits, there are fancy bars to water them.
The Formula 1 track is in the heart
of the Central Business District (CBD)
– a jawline of skyscrapers and glitzy
waterfronts where rooftop bars are
the speciality. The most garish is the
marina Bay Sands resort, comprising
three skyscrapers with a hectare-long
cantilevered sky park and infinity
pool slapped on top. Towering over
the racing track, the bird’s eye view
makes marina Bay Sands a must. It
is a little known fact but Singapore
is set to overtake Vegas in gambling
revenues next year and marina Bay
Sands houses one of the two casinos
in the city. Play at being Bond over an

Earl Grey Martini at the roof top club
Ku Da Ta.
If 340 metres of floating platform
isn’t quite dizzying enough, the aptly
named 1-Altitude might suffice. A
blustery 282 metres above sea level
and 63 floors up, this al fresco bar
offers unparalleled 360 degree views.
Avoid stormy weather (an occupational
hazard of living in a tropical climate)
and Friday nights (the bar is choked
with suits). Bizarrely, at this height,
mobiles think they are in Indonesia, so
drunk, rambling calls can get pricey.
Toast the glorious elevation (and
temporary migration to Jakarta) with
The Narcissist, with rosemary infused
raspberries (S$16).
Apart from these minor indulgences,
Singapore has learnt from the
Disneyland disaster of Dubai. It’s
packed off the really naff stuff to a
desert island. Literally.
Sentosa Resorts island, south of
Singapore, is a veritable orgy of
superlatives; it houses the world’s
largest oceanarium, the tallest
duelling rollercoaster and one of the
most expensive casinos ever made.
It’s pretty ironic that Sentosa means
‘peace and tranquillity’ in Malay. The
reality is Universal Studios, a casino,
a circus, fake surfing and water canon
laser shows packed into a whirlwind
synthetic wonderland.
Singapore was savvy enough to
keep the shopping on its main island.
Designer labels are beginning to
recognise Singapore as the gateway
to the Asian market (the fastest
growing economy in the world) and
Men’s Fashion Week was even held
in Singapore for the first time a few
months ago. Orchard Road, the main
shopping district, is like Oxford Street,
perforated with malls. Unlike London,
which separates its designer stores
from high street riff-raff, Singapore
travel
is refreshingly practical. Prada, New
Look, Uniqlo and Hermes are huggermugger
under the same roof.
You can take the colonies out of
the empire but you can’t take the
empire out of the colonies. Nestled in
amongst the ‘scrapers are remnants of
good old British architecture. Raffles
hotel, birthplace of the Singapore
Sling (S$18), is probably the most
iconic cenotaph. The Fullerton hotel,
formally the poshest post office on
the planet, and the Supreme Court
buildings cluster around the best of
British traditions: a cricket ground.
The Singapore Cricket Club, on the
Pedang, is like being in a gentleman’s
club circa 1900; hopeful applicants
have to schmooze committee members
over G&Ts.
Office blocks, malls and mansions
aside, the real Singapore is actually
a melting pot of Chinese, India,
Malay and Arab cultures. Behind
connoisseur
101

connoisseur
102
travel
the painfully shiny exteriors you can
find a lovably grubbiness. The best
way is through the food (no pun
intended). Singapore’s national dish is
possibly the most delicious thing you’ll
ever eat. Chilli Crab, or its younger
gastronomic sibling Black Pepper Crab,
was invented in the 50s in the seafood
centres on the East Coast, which are
still packed today. A crab the size of
your face is cooked with a deliciously
more-ish sauce and bibs and a toolkit
of cracking devices are distributed.
The aim is to eat more than ends up
down your front (Chili Crab S$55 for
two at Long Beach, East Coast).
Lunch in Singapore is an institution.
In some offices they dim the lights and
play music to remind employees to
go to eat. Everyone from builders to
businessmen then descends on Hawker
centres – essentially large open-air
warehouses of food stalls dotted around
the city. The Hawker stalls serve up
some of the best and cheapest local
cuisine – try Chinatown, just north of
the CBD (approx. S$6 per dish).
Little India and the Arab Quarter
are also welcome breaks from the
corporate indigestion of the city. In
Arab Quarter (a tidier version of
Dalston) trendy young things smoke
shisha and hang out in ‘concept’ spaces
like Bar Stories, a tiny upstairs storytelling
bar that doesn’t have a menu
but invents bespoke concoctions for
its guests (S$22 per cocktail). Hidden
gems are tucked into every corner
of these two areas, offering up good
value, delicious grub.
One culinary tradition that cannot
be missed is brunch. Forget fry-ups,
brunch is a five-hour champagneswigging
eat-a-thon in Singapore.
Most hotels and restaurants put on
a decadent spread but nothing will
rival Hotel St. Regis’s gastronomic
debauchery at Brasserie Les Saveurs.
It comprises all you can drink Moet &
Chandon and all you can eat oysters,
fillet beef, sushi, pastries, macaroons,
tapas, foie gras and crème brulee at
S$130 a pop.
Alcohol is expensive in Singapore: a
wise man picks up a bottle in duty free
on his way in. A wise man also chooses
his night out carefully: there are two
sides to Singapore after hours. One is
the hellish Clarke Quay, where battered
big-bellied bankers try to bed local
girls. The other is Zouk, listed as one
of the top 20 clubs in the world. Not
far from both is Club Street, with lazy
roof top bars and dancing.
If it wasn’t for the deafening sound
of the Formula 1 cars (ear plugs = a
must) you could be forgiven for getting
distracted by all the city has to offer.
Shopping, drinking, fine dining, fake
surfing – it’s got it all. Just remember,
love, leave the chewing gum behind. n
More information
Singapore Grand Prix: +65 6738 6738
www.singaporegp.com
Marina Bay Sands,
10 Bayfront Avenue, +65 6688 8868
www.marinabaysands.com
1-Altitude
1 Raffles Place, +65 6438 0410
www.1-altitude.com
Raffles
1 Beach Road, +65 6337 1886
www.raffles.com
Sentosa
www.sentosa.com.sg
St. Regis Brunch
29 Tanglin Road, +65 6506 6888
www.stregissingapore.com
Bar Stories
57A Haji Lane, Arab Quarter
+65 6298 0838
Zouk
17 Jiak Kim Street, +65 6738 2988
www.zoukclub.com
Bel’s Best Of....
eAtING
Indulgence: Iggy’s.
This Asian fusion restaurant will set you
back S$250+ but you’re worth it, right?
Hilton Hotel, 581 Orchard Road
+65 6732 2234, www.iggys.com.sg
Japanese: Aoki Sushi.
The best sushi outside Japan, as
recommended by the Japanese expats.
1 Scotts Road, +65 6333 8015
www.lesamis.com.sg
Dim Sum: Nanxiang.
It has the best Shanghai dumplings
in town.
200 Victoria Street, Bugis Junction
+65 6835 7577, www.nanxiang.com.sg
Family: Chuan Yi Pin.
This place is always packed. A Steam
Boat (essentially an Asian fondue) is
a fun way to get the kids involved,
as you chose what you cook in the
savoury broth.
North Bridge Road, +65 6884 4582
DRINKING
Best Views: Lantern Bar.
Give your ears a break with waterfront
views of Formula 1 from a distance.
Fullerton Hotel, 1 Fullerton Square
+65 6733 8388, www.fullertonhotel.com
Chill Out: Loof.
A great little rooftop bar with good
cocktails away from the hubbub. 331
North bridge road tower
+65 6338 8035, www.loof.com.sg
Show Off: The Tippling Club.
Mixologist barmen shake up
(overpriced) alcoholic magic tricks.
8d Dempsey Road Singapore
+65 64752217, www.tipplingclub.com
Cheap & Cheerful: Blu Jaz Cafe.
A colourful expat hangout that does
good value drinks and food.
11 Bali Lane, Arab Quarter
+65 6292 3800 www.blujaz.net
ACtIVItIes
Try Wakeboading at Ski360, surf on
Sentosa, cycle around the tropical
national park Pulau Ubin or experience
the cage-free National Zoo.

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A Little
secreT
Having never been to Malta, let alone Valletta, Cat Hughes
had preconceptions of package holidays with lobster-coloured
sun worshipers. These were completely overturned when she
discovered Valletta is the perfect weekend getaway

My first impression of this little
Mediterranean island was of many
ancient yellow buses hurtling through
the narrow streets at speed. These are
an odd collection, as most are Leyland
buses from varying periods – the earliest being from the
50s. However, every bus seemed unique and had its driver’s
personalities stamped all over it. The taxi driver who drove
us from the airport to the hotel told us that Arriva will be
taking over, and the rickety yellow buses will soon be gone,
which I thought was rather sad, as the colourful buses had
so much character.
This loss to Valletta will be akin to the loss of the
Routemaster buses in London and the buses are not the
only revamp the city will see. During my time in Valletta,
the famed gatehouse, which was built in the 1500s, was
undergoing major renovation. The works were so complex
that the city decided that the Valletta Grand Prix would
have to be postponed till later in the year.
Valletta, Malta’s capital, has seen many changes in its time.
It was founded by the Order of St. John back in the 16th
century and since its birth has been besieged by the Ottoman
Turks, the French and the British. Finally, in 1964, Malta
became an independent state and it was the British and the
Germans who changed the city the most. During World War
Two, it was the Germans who bombarded the city; there are
still parts that are yet to be rebuilt and the ruins stand there
as a testament to the horrors the people endured and for their
steadfast bravery, honoured in 1942 by King George VI, who
awarded the island the St. George’s Cross.
When the British came in 1800 and created a major naval
base, they set about building many Colonial structures, the
finest of which is the Phoenicia Hotel where I stayed. The
hotel has also recently been renovated but its old grandeur
still shines through. Back in its heyday, the hotel was the
centre of high society; naval officers, grandees, and even
Her Majesty The Queen herself have danced in the Art
Deco ballroom that looks out over the harbour. HM The
Queen actually lived in Malta when she was a princess,
after she married the Duke of York, who was stationed
there while he was a British naval officer. The hotel sits in
seven acres of pretty gardens, at the bottom of which is a
swimming pool with beautiful harbour views. In fact, you
will find that most places have a harbour view.
Valletta is a gem of a city and it can easily be explored
in a long weekend; the island is just three and a half hours
away from the UK and it’s warm even in winter. For such a
small place, the city boasts many cultural treasures, and the
star is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, which rivals the continent’s
most elaborate ecclesiastical buildings. The Co-Cathedral,
built by the Order of St. John, is an oppressively grand
i
Air Malta has daily flights from London Heathrow and
London Gatwick and up to five flights a week from
Manchester. Economy class fares start from £99* return (*£139
return from Heathrow including taxes and charges). For hotels,
car hire, flight booking and more, visit www.airmalta.com or
call 0906 103 0012. Stay at the Phoenicia Hotel from £80 per
person, based on accommodation in a Classic Plus room only.
To book call 0808 238 1710 or visit www.phoeniciamalta.com
travel
baroque structure and is famous for housing some of
Caravaggio’s finest works of art – the most notable being
The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. Other places worth
seeing are the National War Museum in St. Elmo, the
National Museum of Fine Arts and the Casa Rocca Piccola,
a 16th century nobleman’s house with a vast World War
Two shelter underneath. The family that owned the house
opened up the shelter beneath to the people of Valletta as a
refuge throughout the war. It was said that 200 people lived
there during the worst of the bombings.
Of course, the best way to explore any city is by foot and
it is only this way you’ll see the best that Valletta has to
offer. Take a walk around the perimeter of the city; it’s easy
enough to do this in an hour or two and you never know
what you’ll find around the corner. The views of the harbour
are beautiful – its azure waters make you want to jump right
in – and it’s as if you’ve found a secret corner of the Med.
Valletta may not have a Michelin-starred restaurant, but
its food is still tasty. Rabbit is a very traditional dish and
Italian food is also popular. The local Maltese wine is cheap
and good – if you can find it, have the farmhouse wine –
and the whites especially can be well worth ordering. One
of the best restaurants is the Venezia, an Italian restaurant
in an old captain’s palace, with views that face the grand
harbour and Valletta. If you are looking for something a
little different, the Phoenix Restaurant in the Phoenicia
is also excellent; its cuisine offers an avant-garde take on
traditional Maltese food.
When the need to get out of London arises, consider
Valletta. It may not be the most obvious choice for a weekend
away but its compactness makes it the perfect getaway. n
connoisseur
Colorful, traditional
fishing boats against
the backdrop of
Marsaxlokk village
105

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under
scilly’s spell
Beverley Byrne explores the Isles of Scilly, falling in love with a holiday
destination which feels foreign but, at the same time, so much like home

Flying over the Isles of Scilly archipelago, it’s
hard to believe I’m only 28 miles off the coast
of Cornwall’s Land’s End. Below me the ocean
shallows are Caribbean turquoise and islands are
fringed with half-moon sandy beaches. There’s
even the odd palm tree. It’s only as we’re coming in to land
on the island of St Mary’s, with its flower-filled fields and
classically British patchwork of wood and heathland, that
I’m reminded this is still dear old Blighty.
After landing at St Mary’s endearingly Lilliputian
airport, I’m greeted by Chris, the congenial porter of the
Star Castle Hotel. En route to Hugh Town, the capital and
centre of commerce for the islands, we pass a small cottage
called, somewhat bizarrely, Nowhere. “See that cottage?”
says chatty Chris. “A lad who lived there went to join the
army. When the sergeant asked where he was from, he
said ‘Nowhere’. Thinking he was being clever, the sergeant
shouts, ‘Now then boy, don’t mess me about. Where are
you from?’ The answer came, ‘I’ve told you, I’m from
Nowhere, Scilly’.”
The Isles of Scilly may look like a foreign country but,
it seems, the Scillonian sense of humour remains resolutely
‘seaside postcard’ British. The same can be said for the
historic Star Castle. As Chris negotiates the granite gateway
of the hotel, I see the date l593 carved above the imposing
fortification. Built during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I
to protect the Scillies from the threat of a second invasion
after the defeat of the Armada, the castle’s keep and outer
walls take the form of an eight-pointed star – a Cornish
symbol dating back to the Crusades. Erected on the fortified
Garrison Hill to the west of the island, it commands
panoramic views of Hugh Town, its picturesque harbour
and the deep channel between St Mary’s and Tresco.
Whilst the fortress exterior might seem forbidding,
inside there’s not a screaming sergeant in sight. This
award-winning, family-run hotel prides itself on friendly
but efficient personal service and the homely ambience
is enhanced by a cosy interior – all polished antiques,
sumptuous furnishings and historic memorabilia – plus
Monty and Henry, the wagsome Labradors. My room in the
main castle (there are also garden suites) is charming with
views – through the castle crenellations – to the harbour
crammed with brightly coloured boats.
Dinner is served in what was the original officer’s mess
room. The grand Tudor fireplace and candles flickering in
converted arrow slits are reminders that this belongs to the
age of Drake and the sea dogs. It’s thrilling, in a Horatio
Hornblower sort of way, to enjoy a sumptuous dinner
featuring local produce and vegetables from the hotel’s
kitchen garden in this atmospheric room. A fine wine list
contributes to the house party atmosphere.
During the evening, the hotel proprietor greets his
guests and reminds us that Tim, the hotel boatman, will be
around during breakfast. Next morning Tim, another joker,
arrives. “What sort of boat do you have, Tim?” “Calypso.
She’s a nice little thing – oars for all of you!” Tim offers
trips to the other inhabited islands, Tresco, St. Martin’s,
Bryher, and his personal favourite, St. Agnes, but there are
literally hundreds of many smaller uninhabited islands and
rocky islets offering attractions for everyone from wildlife
enthusiasts to scuba divers.
travel
connoisseur
I sign up for a trip to Tresco, famous for its lush subtropical
Abbey gardens. Calypso turns out to be 31 feet of
gleaming teak with handsome yet sturdy dimensions. As
she cuts through the waves, Tim points out places of
interest – treacherous rocks upon which countless sailors
have lost their lives, Samson island (inhabited until 1855
when the population, consisting of only two families, was
removed due to severe nutrient deprivation, mainly caused
by a diet of limpets and potatoes) and the UK’s tallest
lighthouse, the Bishop Rock. Tresco is a paradise island of
golden sands, rugged rocks and soaring, singing skylarks.
Attracted by the towering palm trees on the horizon, I
head straight for the gardens which, started in the 1830s,
have developed into a shockingly fecund collection of subtropical
plants.
Outside the gardens, Tresco is a bucolic, if not slightly
unreal, experience. The island has 150 residents, the majority
of whom are employed by the family-run Dorrien Smith
estate, which has the leasehold. Charles and Diana took their
boys here and its otherwordly, reclusive atmosphere makes
it a Mecca for the glitterati. With no cars, one pub, a village
store, a tiny church with a tinier school nearby, strolling
around Tresco makes me feel like an extra in a cross between
The Wicker Man and The Prisoner.
In the afternoon, I take a sightseeing bus trip round the
island courtesy of local Scillonian Glyn, who lends further
insight into the history of the island and local life, as the
bus heads downhill on a lane bisecting fields festooned
with narcissi. There’s such a quaint 50s feel about this
sleepy island, I half expect Glyn to stop the bus, whip out
a primus stove and brew us all a nice cuppa. This retro
ambience, plus Glyn’s entertaining commentary, makes a
major contribution to my falling under the Scillies’ spell.
The Isles of Scilly are populated with genuine characters
and it is this, along with the family atmosphere at the Star
Castle hotel, the stunning scenery and wildlife that makes
this a unique destination. If you’ll forgive the pun, you’d be
silly not to go there. n
For more information visit www.simplyscilly.co.uk
The Star Castle Hotel, 01720 422317, www.star-castle.co.uk
GettinG there
SAiL:
The Scillonian III ferry sails from Penzance to St Mary’s
(0845 710 5555; www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk)
FLY:
The Skybus flies from Landsend, Newquay, Exeter, Bristol
and Southampton
(0845 710 5555; www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk)
British International runs a helicopter service from Penzance
to St Mary’s from £145 return
(01736 363871; www.islesofscillyhelicopter.com)
rAiL:
First Great Western has trains to Penzance
There is also an overnight sleeper
(0845 700 0125; www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk)
109

THE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL
The perfect venue for events
Day delegate rates *£35.00 per person
• 14 meeting rooms
• Maximum capacity of 500 delegates
• All rooms with natural daylight
• Dedicated 1st floor conference centre
• Waterside location and views
The Hotel is open to Non-residents
Contact the meeting and events team on
020 7712 0100
Or email: conf712@britanniahotels.com
Please quote: Canary Wharf magazine
• 442 bedrooms
• 2 restaurants
• The conservatory bar
• Full leisure club - members
• Car parking
The International Hotel
163 Marsh Wall, Canary Wharf
London E14 9SJ
Time to book your
Christmas party too…..
Private functions or come
and join a party
*Rates valid until 30th October 2011, subject to availability, terms & conditions apply

food & drink
news
bijoux tea at the langham
Just in time for London Fashion Week, luxury
hotel The Langham has launched its inspired
Bijoux Afternoon Tea which celebrates the playful
and dramatic jewellery designs from Stephen
Webster’s latest collection, Murder She Wrote.
The tea includes edible masterpieces which
substitute sparkling diamonds for shimmering
icing and dense gold for light cake. The Poison
Apple, for instance, is replicated as a red
peppercorn and dark chocolate shortbread, while
a lightly perfumed Guinness macaroon with
blackcurrant jelly conjures images of Webster’s
Crystal Clear Diamond.
available From 1 SePtember, £49 Per PerSon
www.langhamhotelS.com
www.StePhenwebSter.com
food & drink
NEWS: Food liNgo: QuotE: WEbSitE:
www.ladyblonde.com
Grey Goose Winter Ball
Café de Paris Sauce
Back for its fifth year and hosted at
This complex sauce is
Battersea Park, to benefit the Elton
traditionally served with steak
John AIDS Foundation, The GREY
and was created in the 1940s by
GOOSE Winter Ball will welcome
Café de Paris in Geneva. To this
El Bulli catering to create a menu
that will excite, challenge and
delight guests. El Bulli is renowned
for pushing the boundaries of
gastronomy and having closed its
doors in July, The GREY GOOSE
Winter Ball, 29 October, will offer
guests a rare chance to enjoy the El
Bulli experience in the UK.
day the ingredients of the sauce
remain a closely guarded trade
secret. The closest any restaurant
has come is Le Relais de Venise
I can spend hours
L’Entrecôte, with branches in
in a grocery store.
Marylebone, Paris and New York. I get so excited when I see
Its sauce is made from chicken food, I go crazy.
livers, fresh thyme, full cream
and Dijon mustard. cameron Diaz
connoisseur
Feng SuShi
This September, Japanese restaurant
group Feng Sushi will open a
restaurant in Billingsgate Fish
Market, its seventh in the capital.
With space for only six covers, it will
focus predominantly on a delivery
and takeaway service for local homes
and businesses in Canary Wharf
and the surrounding area. The
finest quality sustainable fish will
be sourced daily from the market to
provide a menu that centres around
classic and modern sushi and sashimi,
along with seasonal specialities such
as MSC mackerel donburi.
www.FengSuShi.co.uk
Sneak Peek
Get some top tips for this year’s
autumn and winter fashion with
a visit to the annual Fashion and
Champagne Afternoon Tea at The
Lanesborough. Following on from
the top notch Hervé Léger event
last year, the hotel has invited
the inimitable Amanda Wakeley
to showcase her latest designs,
accompanied by sparkling glasses of
fizz and the best in award-winning
afternoon tea. Held in the beautiful
Aspley’s restaurant, the exclusive
event will offer a unique chance
to see Amanda Wakeley’s A/W11
collection.
4Pm, 13 october, £49 Per PerSon
www.laneSborough.com
Lady Blonde’s clever search
function makes finding the
best places to eat, drink and
entertain simple. Search for
the kind of place you want to
go (wine bar, cafe, restaurant),
what you want to do
(cocktails, after work drinks,
Sunday lunch) and who
you’re going with (girlfriends,
colleagues, in laws) and the
site recommends a selection
of the best, tried and tested
places throughout London.
111

Dram Magic
Dave Waddell explores what Scotland has to offer by way of its whisky industry and
more than 100 stunningly located distilleries, via Glasgow and Islay
The Glengoyne Distillery has drawn the short
straw. It’s late in the morning on day three
of a whistle-stop tour of a smidgen of what
Scotland has to offer and after countless drams
and three flights, I’m on my knees. While a
firm convert to the cause, I have to confess that the thought
of yet more whisky leaves me reeling.
I need not worry. Met by Arthur MacFarlane, our
genial host and guide, we are immediately and charmingly
introduced to a bottle of Glengoyne 17 Years Old. Released
in 2003, smooth, clean and cherry sweet, all spicy feints,
vanilla and Christmas notes, slightly nutty and wonderfully
light on its feet, it is a well-known drop, the recipient of
many an accolade, including multiple golds at the San
Francisco World Spirit Championships. It is also the ultimate
pick-me-up: one dram and I am a new and powerful man, all
thoughts of rest and home instantly dispelled.
The lowest of the highland distilleries, Glengoyne is
situated north of Glasgow, below Dumgoyne, and is in
location and look distinctly different from Islay’s Ardbeg
and Bowmore, the two distilleries thus far toured. It also
produces a very different style of single malt whisky.
Ardbeg and Bowmore are island distilleries. Built on the
coast, they face the sea and their whiskies are huge, smoky-
sweet monsters. Glengoyne, by contrast, is tucked away
in a pretty little valley, impassable come heavy winter, but
green and filled with midsummer flowers at the beginning
of August. Its soils are volcanic, not peat-based, which
means that traditionally, when it would have grown its own
barley, it relied much more on its copper stills than it did
on the taste of its malt. Today, while the picture may have
changed with regard to the sophistication of the malting
process, and indeed to its wood policy, things at Glengoyne
are much the same: “We don’t have the peat,” says
MacFarlane, “so we must rely on copper for our taste.”
Time and material are crucial to the final expression of
a given whisky. At Glengoyne, long fermentation times
are matched by long distillation processes. Fermented in
Oregon pine vats, the emphasis here is on producing a
wash (beer) high in esters – light, sweet and fruity flavours.
Chasing fruit and flowers, Glengoyne’s copper philosophy
– the more the better – is combined with the slowest
distillation time in Scotland. The material effect of the
copper (it holds on to heavier more sulphuric compounds),
together with the unique shape of its stills, means that
Glengoyne’s non-matured spirit is already lighter and
fruitier than most so-called new-makes. From there it
is pumped under the A81 (yes, I know, but it’s perfectly

true: the warehouses are located on the other side of the
main road) and matured in ex-sherry casks made of either
American white or European red oak.
“The quality of the wood is absolutely key,” says
MacFarlane. Take, for example, the 17 Years Old, the dram
of which continues to march me lightly across Glengoyne’s
steel walkways, its tidy concrete floors and out into the
distillery’s front yard. Matured in charred ex-Oloroso
sherry casks, the carbonised innards of the cask continues
where the copper left off, removing unpalatable flavours,
while a combination of the spirit, the wood and air is
responsible for the above-mentioned sweetness, an injection
of vanilla, and for that dark taste of currants and cloves.
At the end of our tour, with MacFarlane’s explanations as
to the effects of wood, copper and time beginning to merge
beautifully in my whisky-matured brain, we are shown
into Glengoyne’s brand new Sample Room, where, at a
table filled with representative samples of Scotland’s main
whisky-producing regions, we are positively encouraged to
concoct our own whisky blends. Transported back to the
school laboratory, and let loose, this is exceptional fun.
With elements of the 17 Year Old hanging spore-like in
the upper regions of my olfactory passages, but still basely
influenced by the previous day’s dally with Islay’s monsters,
I am driven to create the Bonza Blend, a whisky whose fruit
and flowers are inextricably held together by a thin and
almost imperceptible thread of smoke. Do contact me for
tasting notes, the recipe and any other Bonza secrets.
Seriously, from the point of view of making the most of
touring Scotland’s whisky distilleries, the chance to actually
make a whisky comes at just the right time: the end. We have
enjoyed – at the Hotel du Vin, under the kindly tutelage of
whisky expert Neil Ridley – pairing whisky to pudding; we
have survived – by the skin of our whisky tasting teeth – a
Professor Bill Lumsden-led session in Ardbeg’s holiest of
food & drink
connoisseur
holies, The Chairman’s Study; and we’ve spent a rare half
hour in a dank warehouse with Eddie MacAffer, Distillery
Manager at Bowmore, cracking into a fresh first-fill bourbon
cask of 1999. Joyful, sensual and educational, these, by no
means the tour’s only highlights, inform my whisky making,
and while I am under no illusions as to the future fortunes of
the Bonza Blend, which presently sits, untouched, poor thing,
in a kitchen cupboard, wedged between a can of beans and
a bag of flour, I know enough to know that its very existence
takes me that bit closer to the stuff of whisky, to the magic of
the dram. n
i
Dave WaDDell’s tour of Glengoyne
(www.glengoyne.com), Ardbeg (www.ardbeg.com) and
Bowmore (www.bowmore.com) distilleries anticipates this
year’s The Whisky Exchange Whisky Show, a luxury tasting
experience designed to showcase many of the world’s
premium whiskies. Tickets cost £95 per day and include
a two-course lunch, whisky samples from each exhibitor,
whisky food pairings and two dream dram tokens. For
further information visit www.whisky-show.com.
To create your own Scottish distillery tour visit
www.visitscotland.com/surprise
Overnight accommodation in Glasgow is available at the
Hotel Du Vin at 1 Devonshire Place. For further information
visit www.hotelduvin.com.
113

connoisseur
114
food & drink
Best for Evenings
Jake Crimmin, head sommelier at Gaucho, offers his advice about the best wines to enjoy
when winding down after work
Although the sun is now shining through my wine shop
window, I presume with some certainty that by the
time you read this, the average Londoner is yet to
have their full solar fix. With autumnal chills moving
in, I thought it good karma to share with you my top
terraces to squeeze out the last drips of summer and some gorgeous
drinks to enjoy while there.
Why not take an afternoon sup on an English sparkling wine? Join
the ongoing celebration of recent years during which our fizzies have
triumphed against the French, garnering numerous awards. Kick back
with the gorgeous views of the Thames offered on the terrace of The
Gun (27 Coldharbour, E14 9NS) with a glass or three of Chapel Down
Pinot Brut Reserve 2004; rich, ripe and beautifully crisp. This is made
using the champagne method from Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes,
and is great with just sunshine or with a pot of the chilli rice crackers
from the bar. If a French friend looks upon your choice with some
disdain, just point out where the champagne method was originally
invented: England.
As afternoon turns to evening, cross the peninsular to my
native Gaucho (29 Westferry Circus, E14 8RR) for one of central
London’s few west-facing, riverside terraces and bask in golden rays
Canary Wharf’s cool new rendezvous
at the Museum of London Docklands
20 %OFF
ALL FOOD
MONDAY TO WEDNESDAY
or Just relax after work with a mojito on our large Heated terrace
tel: 020 7538 2702
email: rumandsugar@ampersandvenues.co.uk
web: www.rumandsugar.co.uk
rum & sugar, museum of london docklands, west india quay, e14 4al
until sunset. Try a glass of Argentina’s
answer to ultimate refreshment with
its national white variety, Torrontés. In
particular the Seleccion ‘G’ Torrontés
2010 is beautifully aromatic, with enough
elderflower florals to leave you reminiscing
about a meadow in springtime. It’s perfect
with a river view sunset and heavenly with
the Ceviche Spoons of salmon, scallops
and lemon sole.
Should your preferred form of imbibing
come in a pint glass, try The Grapes (76
Narrow Street, E14 8BP) for a fine selection of ales in surroundings
that are steeped in history. Head down early and you might bag
yourself a spot on the small, yet beautifully formed terrace, precariously
suspended over the river. Should this spur on your appetite, I can
heartily recommend the cosy, award-winning fish restaurant upstairs, as
well as the steely mineral Riesling Tesch ‘unplugged’ 2009.
Bottles up! n
www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk/wineboutique
Christmas Party?
book by end of september &
receive a free glass of prosecco
for everyone in your group
What’s on
salsa classes every mond ay
mojito masterclass -
1 4t h september
2605 RUM&SUGAR 1-180x131.indd 1 15/08/2011 21:53

First Class at
FIRST EdITION
27880 First Edition LCP - 01.indd 1 07/09/2010 11:49
Neither could we. As the
cheerful wine expert
disappeared in search
of bubbly (two glasses
of Moutard Grande
Cuvée, Côtes du Bar), we decided we
were in for an enjoyable evening.
This was First Edition, an
independently owned restaurant that
for the past 14 years has managed to
excel in an increasingly competitive
area, with very high standards. Located
in Cabot Place, opposite Boisdale,
First Edition was opened in the 90s by
Pamela Schneider, a one-time dancer
in Las Vegas’ world famous Bluebell
Show who recognised the potential of
the booming Canary Wharf estate and
snapped up this prime location.
Like Pamela’s story, First Edition isn’t
quite what you’d expect to find amongst
this glass metropolis and, in truth, it’s
a shock to the system when you enter.
Reminiscent of the type of washedout
beach house that might appear in
a Ralph Lauren advert, First Edition
is an amalgamation of white-washed
walls, time-worn tables and coastal
water-colours set amongst pervading
New England hues. It’s a light and airy
establishment that transports you to a
place far away from the city, making the
restaurant a pleasure of a place to be.
While it’s true that First Edition
becomes more of an after-work
watering hole in the evenings, that
doesn’t mean its menu should only
be explored during lunch. In fact
the sound of animated, out-of-office
chitchat lends the restaurant a lively
ambience that is only enhanced by
the amount of light the eatery enjoys
thanks to floor to ceiling windows.
Neither my colleague nor I knew
quite what sort of food we fancied but
we needn’t have worried. Incorporating
everything from confit of duck to
salmon steak teriyaki, First Edition’s
menu runs all the way from Britain
to Japan via, most notably, France.
Showcasing an ability to adapt to
modern trends, several dishes are
available with either a teriyaki, curry,
mango or homemade peppercorn sauce,
while vegetarians are catered for with
a range of pastas dishes, salads and
homemade tofu cakes.
After much deliberation I opted
to start with crunchy coconut king
prawns in a mango sauce. Served with
their heads and tails left on and their
bodies coated in breadcrumbs, each
of the three prawns were moist and
meaty and complemented by the sweet,
tanginess of the sauce – a sauce that
itself worked fantastically well with the
smooth and fruity 2009 Cuvée Le Bosq
Vin de Pays du Gard selected by our
ever helpful sommelier.
Just as appetising was my guest’s
bresaola of beef with rocket, marinated
artichokes and parmesan shavings:
the fresh, crisp rocket, soft parmesan
and wafer-thin sliced beef created a
brilliant fusion of textures and tastes.
Accompanied by a light-bodied 2009
Beaujolais Villages, the dish was a
tantalising taster of what was to come.
For me, that was an eight ounce fillet
steak with a peppercorn sauce and
fries. If the prawns constituted the
delicate part of the meal, then the steak
was definitely the no-nonsense part.
Ordered medium-rare the meat came
food & drink
connoisseur
Richard Brown visits one of Canary Wharf’s oldest eateries. “Champagne?”, asked the
sommelier as we took our seats in one of the restaurant’s curtained alcoves. “Personally,
I can’t think of a better way to start a meal.”
crispy on the outside while fiery red
on the inside. While usually I prefer
my chips chunkier, especially with
steak, the thinly sliced fries proved
delicious. The dish was washed down
with an agreeably spicy 2001 Malbec
‘Collection’ Michel Torino.
Keen to explore the diversity of First
Edition’s menu, my guest chose the
swordfish tandoori. Thick, firm and
moist, the swordfish steak tasted about
as far removed from fish as fish could
be. While the swordfish was a real treat,
the curry sauce and rice, while perfectly
appetising in themselves, would perhaps
have worked better with chicken or
lamb. We could, on the other hand,
find no fault in the accompanying Pinot
Grigio ‘Capito’ Veneto.
To finish, I opted for chocolate terrine
with wasabi sauce. While the two
flavours struggled to compliment each
other on the same plate, the terrine itself
was a delectably chocolatey way to end
a meal. My friend, who had chosen the
more conservative lemon tart special,
had nothing but praise for a dessert he
could only describe as “spot on”.
With a menu that boasts foods from
across the globe and a comprehensive,
well-balanced wine list, First Edition’s
strength lies in its ability to cater for
any taste at any time. Couple that
with a bright and airy environment
and cheerful staff who are constantly
on hand to offer advice, and you
see why this independently owned
restaurant has stood the test of time
while many other establishments have
tried and failed. n
www.firsteditionrestaurant.co.uk
115

The best food and drink that Canary Wharf has to offer
American
Byron HamBurgers
Second Floor, Cabot Place
020 7715 9360
smollensky’s
Reuters Plaza, E14
020 7719 0101
gourmet Burger kitcHen
Jubilee Place, E14
020 7719 6408
Argentinian
gaucHo canary
29 Westferry Circus, E14
020 7987 9494
British
Boisdale of canary WHarf
Cabot Place
020 7715 5818
canteen
The Park Pavilion, Canada Square
0845 686 1122
tHe Parlour
40 Canada Square, E14
0845 468 0100
Carribean
cHef collin BroWn
2 Yabsley Street, E14
020 7515 8177
European
tHe Battery
34 Westferry Circus, E14
020 8305 3089
docklands Bar and grill
Royal Victoria Docks
Western Gateway, E16
020 7055 2119
first edition
25 Cabot Square, E14
020 7513 0300
reeBok restaurant
16-19 Canada Square, E14
020 7719 6408
French
cafÉ rouge
29-35 MacKenzie Walk, E14
020 7537 9696
116
davys Wine Bar
31-35 Fisherman’s Walk, E14
020 7363 6633
Plateau
Canada Place, E14
020 7715 7100
Gastro Pub
tHe fine line
29-30 Fisherman’s Walk, E14
020 7513 0255
tHe gun
27 Coldharbour Lane, E14
020 7515 5222
tHe narroW
44 Narrow Street, E14
020 7592 7950
Indian
memsaHeB
65 - 67 Amsterdam Road, E14
020 7538 3008
aniseed Bar & indian restaurant
25 Westferry Road, E14
020 7517 9233
Italian/Pizza
amerigo vesPucci
25 Cabot Square, E14
020 7513 0288
carluccio’s
2 Reuters Plaza, E14
020 7719 1749
gourmet Pizza
18-20 Cabot Square, E14
020 7345 9192
Jamie’s italian
Churchill Place, E14
020 3002 5252
la figa
45 Narrow Street, E14
020 7790 0077
Pizza exPress
Cabot Place, E14
020 7513 0513
Quadrato
The Four Seasons Hotel
46 Westferry Circus, E14
020 7510 1857
rocket
Chuchill Place, E14
020 3200 2022
WildWood
Jubilee Place, E14
020 7719 1213
Mexican
WaHaca
40 Canada Square, E14
020 7516 9145
Middle Eastern
mez restaurant
571 Manchester Road, E14
020 7005 0421
nina’s taza exPress
322 Burdett Road, E14
020 7093 3552
Oriental
itsu
Level 2, Cabot Place, E14
020 7512 5790
roka
4 Park Pavilion, Canada Square
020 7636 5228
royal cHina
30 West Ferry Circus, E14
020 7719 0888
sri nam
1 North Colonnade, E14
020 7715 9515
Seafood
curve
Marriott Hotel, West India Quay
22 Hertsmere Road, E14
020 7517 2808
Spanish
camino
28 Westferry Circus, E14
020 7239 9077
el faro
Turnberry Quay E14
020 7987 5511
Turkish
Hazev
2 South Quay Square
Canary Wharf, E14
0207 515 9467

Whose
choice is it
anyWay?
Based in an Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty and furnished with some of the
most impressive facilities in the country,
Woldingham is one of the UK’s leading
all girls’ independent boarding and day
schools. Louise Hamilton tells us more
Parents underestimate how quickly children make up their
minds about a school. Yes, they can be influenced by trivia
(teddy bears may be a determining factor) and need to be
guided through the decision process (childhood friendships,
no matter how psychologically formative, can be transitory).
So, from my pedestal of experience and reason, I implore
you, let your daughter ‘try on’ each school, and I don’t mean
just touring with a welcoming and informative registrar.
Spend a night if you’re thinking of boarding, an afternoon with
the PE Department if you’re passionate about sport, ask to
spend time with an appropriate year group, question girls in
busy corridors, ask to be put in touch with current pupils living
nearby – hook your daughters up – anything that goes beyond
the polished prospectuses and league table comparisons.
The adage ‘parents know best’ isn’t always true. Yes,
we have the benefit of experience and can emotionally
detach ourselves from the decision process in a way that a
child cannot. However, we can’t presume to know, 100 per
cent of the time, what’s right for them.
In the same way I wouldn’t let my daughter Livvy tell me
which house to buy, I can’t imagine not showing her the
house first, and asking her what she thinks of the room that
could be hers. Livvy’s opinion is weighted against other
factors that she may not be privy to or understand. But, no
matter how small a weighting I give her opinion (and by the
way – it’s massive), it can still sway our family vote.
Come and try us on for size - you might be pleasantly
surprised. We do have teddy bears, but we promise they
won’t be the reason you’ll want to join (well, not the only
reason anyway).
www.woldinghamschool.co.uk
CWpromotion
• A leading Catholic independent
boarding and day school for girls aged
11 to 18 • Situated in Surrey, 6 minutes
from the M25 • Only 35 minutes from
Central London • A wealth of academic
and extra-curricular opportunities
Join us for Open Day on
24 September 2011
No appointment necessary
Woldingham School, Marden Park, Woldingham, Surrey CR3 7YA
t: 01883 654206 e: info@woldinghamschool.co.uk
www.woldinghamschool.co.uk
117

out&
about
the luxury
WeddinG shoW
Doing exactly what it says on the tin,
The Luxury Wedding Show London
promises to showcase the most lavish of
all things wedding when it opens its doors
on 22 October. Uniting the UK’s most
influential wedding industry names under
one roof, the exclusive two-day event has
been designed to cater for bridal parties
looking for something extra special. Private
consultations are available with premier
wedding planner Mark Niemierko, while
bridal photographer Julia Boggio, floral
designers McQueens and occasion-wear
designer Claire Thorogood will all be
on hand to give their valuable advice.
The Saatchi Gallery, King’s Road, SW3 4SQ
22–23 October
www.theluxuryweddingshowlondon.co.uk
Ghost the Musical
Audiences for this West End hit
will fall into two categories; those
that have seen the classic ‘90s film
and those who have not. Both
will love it. Telling the timeless
story of Sam and Molly’s love
that crosses death’s divide, Ghost
the Musical strikes the perfect
balance of having you tap your
foot one minute and wipe away
tears the next. Combining
strong performances, catchy
songs and slick dance routines
with incredible staging and a
powerfully poignant narrative,
every element of this show has
been honed and polished, creating
a production that can’t help
but to enthral and entertain.
Piccadilly Theatre
www.ghostthemusical.com

FasHion For tHe Masses
It may take place on the same catwalk at
the same venue, but while London Fashion
Week is a trade-only event, Vodafone London
Fashion Weekend is open to consumers,
enabling members of the public to share in
the industry’s seasonal highlight. Essentially
a designer shopping event, the weekend
allows visitors to shop from designers of
Hair & FasHion
Whether blonde, brunette or redhead, hair is
fashion. As a living, growing embodiment of
cultural codes and meanings, hairstyles have
the potential to turn someone into a walking
work of art; when combined with the latest in
clothing trends, they can create unforgettable,
iconic images. Exploring the fascinating
relationship between the worlds from which
the book takes its name, Hair & Fashion (by
Lee Widdows & Caroline Cox, £30) considers
the historical development of this association
through glamorous and evocative images,
including ground-breaking fashion shoots as well
as new, specially commissioned photographs.
www.vandashop.com
London Fashion Week calibre at
discounted prices. Guests will also
have the chance to see the latest in
A/W11 trends as a wide variety of
collections take to the catwalk.
Somerset House, 22–25 September
www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk
FasHion tHrougH tHe ages
For the curators at the Museum of London,
fashion and clothing have always possessed
the same historical importance as any other
artefacts of material culture. That’s why their
dress collection comprises 24,000 objects,
including 60 complete outfits, which stretch
from the late 16th century to the present day.
The core of the collection consists of noteworthy
fashionable dresses and accessories, with 20th
century garments incorporating a wider range of
socio-economic, ethnic and cultural groups. The
gallery is free of charge and open daily, so you
can get your fashion fix whenever you want.
150 London Wall, EC2Y 5HN
www.museumoflondon.org.uk
out & about
connoisseur
HeaVenly HollyWooD
This exhibition offers an intimate insight
into Hollywood history from 1920 to 1960.
Nearly all of the iconic vintage prints have
been drawn from the archive of the John
Kobal Foundation, a collector and author
who sought to understand the importance
of photography in creating the stars of
the era. These include the now-legendary
Clark Gable, Marlene Dietrich, Joan
Crawford, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers and
James Dean. A fully illustrated paperback
book accompanies the exhibition.
Glamour of the Gods: Hollywood Portraits
Photographs from the John Kobal Foundation
7 July–23 October 2011
National Portrait Gallery, St Martin’s Place
WC2H 0HE
www.npg.org.uk/glamour
By royal appointMent
It wowed the world when it was unveiled four
months ago. Now take the chance to get up
close and personal with the most talked-about
dress of the century. Until 3 October visitors
are invited to the Ballroom at Buckingham
Palace to view the Duchess of Cambridge’s
wedding dress. Designed by Sarah Burton
for Alexander McQueen, a closely guarded
secret only revealed on the wedding day
itself, the dress is on display alongside the
diamond earrings, wedding shoes and Cartier
‘Halo’ tiara also worn by the Duchess.
The Ballroom at Buckingham Palace
Until 3 October
www.royalcollection.org.uk
119
Clark Gable and Joan Crawford for Dancing Lady, 1933 by George Hurrell © John Kobal Foundation, 2011

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Zone
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Weights Area
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LONDON HOmes&
PROPERTY
ShowcaS ing the fineS t homeS in your area
covering canary wharf, DocKLanDS, waPPing & the city
Eco In The East
CANNINg TOwN REdEvELOpMENT
RENTAL BOOM
THE RISE OF BUY-TO-LET

september
Welcome note...
In the last issue of London Homes & Property we saw how many investment
opportunities the capital’s rental market was presenting ahead of the
2012 Olympics.
Now in this September issue of the magazine we are seeing that the buy-tolet
market is buoyant in every sector, especially when it comes to prime city
properties and homes which will accommodate students (p.154). Canning Town is
also set to be the new property hotspot thanks to the multi-million pound, mixed
use Vermilion development which will bring shops, jobs and gorgeous apartments
to the area (p.124).
If you’re interested in moving out of central London but remaining within a
convenient commuting distance, then you may wish to read about the Dene Terrace
development in Kent which offers high end London style in a rural setting (p.153).
Back at home; be sure to visit the Bangladesh Trade Expo, held in Canary Wharf
this month, which is the largest exhibition of its kind ever to be held in the UK. It
promises to be a very interesting event. Read all about it on page 124.
Happy Hunting!
LONDON HOmes&
PROPERTY
Editorial Director
Kate Harrison
Editor
Emma Mills
Assistant Editor
Gabrielle Lane
Head of Design
Hiren Chandarana
Brand Consistency
Laddawan Juhong
Senior Designer
Dalton Butler
Designer
Ashley Lewis
Production Manager
Fiona Fenwick
Production
Daniel Harris
Senior Property Manager
Samantha Ratcliffe
Finance Manager
Elton Hopkins
Managing Director
Eren Ellwood
RUNWILD
M E D I A G R O U P
16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf
London E14 4JB
T: 020 7987 4320
F: 020 7005 0045
info@londonhomesandproperty.com
www.londonhomesandproperty.com
Runwild Media Group cannot
accept responsibility for unsolicited
submissions, manuscripts and
photographs. While every care is taken,
prices and details are subject to change
and Runwild Media Group take no
responsibility for omissions or errors.
We reserve the right to publish and edit
any letters. All rights reserved.
LONDON HOmes&
PROPERTY
ShowcaS ing the fineS t homeS in your area
covering canary wharf, DocKLanDS, waPPing & the city
Eco In The East
CANNINg TOwN REdEvELOpMENT
Effortless Style, p.154
RENTAL BOOM
THE RISE OF BUY-TO-LET

156
contents
living local
124 Area News
148 Mortgage Update
new homes
154 Property Latest
156 Development Focus
162 State of the Market
124

Image Courtesy of Canary Wharf Group
livinglocal
areanews
By Richard Brown
Pioneering Plans
for Canning Town
DeveloPmenT
English Cities Fund has announced the name and
launch date of Vermillion, the first phase of its East
London mixed-use scheme. Work has now begun
on phase one of the redevelopment of Rathbone
Market, which will include a new market square,
shops, offices and community facilities as well a
271-apartment residential building to be completed
by Summer 2012.
Sales agent Hamptons International has already
received interest in the apartments which are located
just five minutes from Canary Wharf. David Caught,
residential sales and marketing director of English
Cities Fund said: “The fact that Vermilion is situated
at the heart of East London, minutes from Canary
Wharf, the O 2 Arena, London City Airport and the
Olympic sites, means that it is a very attractive
scheme. We have already had a large number of
enquiries about the development even though work is
still in the primary stages.”
Also announced is the fact that Vermilion will boast
a self-sustaining eco-garden that will aim to offset
Transport latest…
It may be three years before the
£500m Canary Wharf Crossrail
station is set for completion, but
Michael Bryant, operations executive
for Canary Wharf Constructors,
is sounding satisfied with the
project’s progress. “We`re hitting our
milestones and that`s very pleasing,”
said Bryant earlier this year. “We`re
digging out the ticket hall at the
moment and I anticipate we`ll start
the excavation of the platforms by
the end of January.” When complete
the station will be around 260m long
and incorporate 100,000 square foot
of retail space.
the carbon emissions generated in its construction.
The garden has been created to harness water shed
from adjoining properties to feed its pond, plants
and water features. Rain water will also make its
way from the roofs of surrounding buildings onto the
podium garden where it will be filtered by plants and
then circulated around the courtyard.
“The ethos of the scheme is to encourage a
low-carbon lifestyle,” said lead landscape architect
Andrew Thornhill. “We’re hoping that the residents at
Vermilion will embrace this philosophy.”
www.vermilion.com
UK’s first ever Bangladesh Expo
The first ever Destination Bangladesh Trade Show
will be at Canary Wharf on 16 and 17 September
2011. The event, has already won the support of
the UK’s first Bangladeshi MP, Rushanara Ali, who
represents Bethnal Green and Bow. Destination
Bangladesh Expo 2011, is expected to attract around
5,000 visitors, aims to create an international spotlight
for Bangladeshi trade, exports and tourism in the UK.
www.destinationbangladesh.co.uk.
DiD you know?
51 per cent of Londoners visited a museum or
gallery in the last twelve months, compared to
42 per cent for the UK as a whole.

Olympic inspired World
record attempt
Between November and the beginning of
the London Olympics in 2012, East London
artist Clare Newton will be travelling
throughout London collecting tens of
thousands of images of people mid-jump
for what she hopes will become the world’s
largest photograph. Each participant
photographed will be clearly identifiable in
the final piece and contributors are invited
to sign their image at the project’s final
exhibition which will be hosted by London’s
ExCel. To take part in the world record
attempt and land yourself in the Guinness
Book of World Records, email
heritage@equinoxpartners.co.uk.
125

Knight Frank
Knight Frank
NEO Bankside, Holland Holland Street, Street, Southbank, SE1
Selection of brand new one, one, two two and three three bedroom
bedroom
apartments
Stunning selection of of of contemporary apartments with large living living rooms, rooms, floor floor to to ceiling
ceiling
windows and private winter gardens. Providing great great storage space, space, comfort comfort cooling,
cooling,
wooden floors and beautiful bathrooms. NEO bankside bankside is is complete complete with with a a 24 24 concierge
concierge
service and will have a resident’s gym, day spa and a variety of shops and restaurants.
service and and will will have a resident’s gym, day spa and a variety of of shops and restaurants.
The new NEO Bankside development is designed by the international, award-winning
This This
architects
is is the the first first
Rogers
phase
Stirk
of of
Harbour
the new
+
NEO
Partners.
Bankside development
Available
development designed
now
designed by by the the
international, award-winning architects Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners. Available now now
£600 to £1500 per week
knightfrank.co.uk/lettings
knightfrank.co.uk/wapping
wapping@knightfrank.com
wapping@knightfrank.com
020 020 7480 6848 6848
020 7480 6848

Knight Frank
The Sanctuary, Reardon Path, Wapping E1W
Smart and spacious one bedroom apartment with River
views available furnished. Accommodating double
bedroom, bathroom with shower, sitting/dining area
with open plan kitchen. This apartment boasts wooden
floors an underground parking space and is located in the
heart of Wapping.
£350 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
E1 Waterside, Wapping High Street, E1W
Contemporary two double bedroom two bathroom riverside
apartment set in this small modern development in west
Wapping close to Waitrose and St Katharine’s Dock. This
stylish apartment has been fitted to a very high standard
boasting modern furnishings, beautiful bathroom suites
with showers, a private balcony and underground parking.
£695 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
Swan Court, St Katharine’s Dock E1W
Lovely two double bedroom two bathroom garden
apartment to rent in the ever popular City Quay development
in St Katharine’s Dock, moments from Tower Hill and the
City. This spacious unit has been updated with Lutron
lighting, remote control blinds, Swedish wooden floors and
contemporary furnishings.
£725 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com
Capital Wharf, Wapping High, Wapping E1W
Riverside two double bedroom modern apartment set in
this popular 24 hour portered development. Offering a fully
fitted kitchen, two en-suite bathrooms and guest WC, large
terrace, wooden floors, underground parking, gym and
stunning south facing river views.
£575 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings
020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank
Ontario Tower, London E14 9JB
Ontario Tower is a 29 storey development with amazing
views. This furnished studio apartment is available in
October. Located on the 15th floor, it offers surprising
space with separate sleeping area and fully fitted kitchen.
The Ontario Development offers health spa, gym, 24 hour
concierge. Close to Canary Wharf, DLR and Jubilee Line.
£330 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Ingot Tower, London E14
This lovely apartment in Silver Wharf that sits alongside the
Limehouse cut canal. This smart apartment comes complete
with two double bedrooms and one bathroom, open plan
reception and modern fully fitted kitchen. Off the reception
is a large terrace offering uninterrupted, far reaching south
facing views of Canary Wharf and the Waterfront.
£330 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Landmark East Tower, London E14
We are pleased to offer this one bedroom apartment. With
unique features that are hardly found elsewhere in Canary
Wharf, this apartment features floor to ceiling windows with
excellent views. With a modern style open plan kitchen,
this apartment offers wonderful dining options. The block is
located within easy walking distance of Canary Wharf.
£395 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Lumina Building, London E14
We are proud to offer this well presented apartment located
within 10 minutes walk of Canary Wharf and transport links.
Offering modern living with all the creature comforts along
with excellent storage. The apartment consists of reception,
semi open plan kitchen, two double bedrooms, two
bathrooms and a balcony and also comes with a porter.
£375 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank
Horizon Building, E14
We are delighted to offer this two double bedroom
apartment which is located in a desirable location. In brief
this apartment includes a fully modern kitchen and two well
equipped bathrooms. The rare feature of limestone flooring
being included in the entrance hall and wood flooring in the
reception. Within extremely easy access of Canary Wharf.
£450 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Farnsworth Court, SE10
Spacious apartment to let in Greenwich Millennium Village.
Comprises of a large open plan kitchen with dining area,
spacious reception leading to the terrace with spectacular
views, two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Covering approx
1500sqft it is offered unfurnished and is close to the 02
Dome, local amenities and transport. Available with parking.
£475 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com
St Davids Square, E14
A luxury two double bedroom split level penthouse
apartment with cathedral ceilings available to rent. The
reception room has additional mezzanine dining area,
which leads through to kitchen. Large balcony offers
partial river views accessed by both bedrooms. Furnished.
£450 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Port East Apartments, E14
Knight Frank are delighted to offer this two bedroom
unfurnished apartment within this Grade I Listed building
of Port East. This apartment is full of character, exposed
brick, wood beams and solid oak wood flooring all running
through this property. The property is south facing and
benefits from 24 hour porterage and protected parking.
£625 per week
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank
Ocean Wharf, London E14
A light and spacious duplex penthouse which has been
refurbished to extremely high specification. Situated
within Ocean Wharf the property has four bedrooms,
three terraces and stunning views of the river.
Leasehold
£1,150,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Dunbar Wharf, London E14
A much sought after two bedroom riverside apartment
situated on the second floor of a well maintained portered
development. The predominantly south facing apartment
benefits from two private balconies overlooking the river.
Share of Freehold
£725,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Berkeley Tower, London E14
A generously proportioned three bedroom, three
bathroom apartment. Located on the 14th floor of
Berkeley Tower, the apartment offers wonderful far
reaching river views from the reception, dining area and
master bedroom.
Leasehold
£1.450,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Trinity Wharf, London E14
This wonderful three bedroom apartment is nestled on
the banks of the River Thames with views towards Canary
Wharf. Recently upgraded to a high specification, the
property offers well proportioned accommodation and
underground parking.
Leasehold
£535,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank
Old Sun Wharf, London E14
On the first and second floors of a popular block on the
riverfront in Limehouse, a two bedroom, two bathroom
flat with an attractive very light and bright reception room
facing due south with far reaching views up and down
stream.
Share of Freehold
£555,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Cubitt Wharf, London E14
Unique two bedroom apartment situated on the third
floor of a warehouse conversion. Presented in excellent
condition throughout, the apartment benefits from a
private balcony overlooking the river as well as two good
double bedrooms.
Leasehold
£455,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Discovery Dock, London E14
This modern two bedroom apartment is located on the
second floor of this sought after development situated
close to Canary Wharf. The property comes to the market
as an investment opportunity with the benefit of a tenant
in place.
Leasehold
£530,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com
Seacon Tower, London E14
A well proportioned one bedroom apartment situated in
Seacon tower within a short walk of Canary Wharf. The
apartment is presented in good internal order and offers
far reaching river views.
Leasehold
£325,000
KnightFrank.co.uk
020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

savills.co.uk
West IndIa Quay E14 dIsCovery doCk east E14
Reception room � kitchen � dining area 2 bedrooms
(with en suites) � study � guest cloakroom � concierge
� parking space,
eaton House E14
Reception room � kitchen � 2 bedrooms (1 en suite)
� bathroom � 2 balconies � concierge � gym
� parking space
Reception room � kitchen � 2 bedrooms
� 2 bathrooms � balcony, concierge � gym
� parking space
Guide £1.595 million Leasehold Guide £595,000 Leasehold
Savills Canary Wharf canarywharf@savills.com 020 7531 2500 Savills Canary Wharf canarywharf@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Guide £685,000 Leasehold
Savills Canary Wharf canarywharf@savills.com 020 7531 2500
Belgrave Court E14
Reception room � kitchen � bedroom with en suite
bathroom � cloakroom, balcony � concierge � gym
� parking space
Guide £540,000 Leasehold
Savills Canary Wharf canarywharf@savills.com 020 7531 2500

savills.co.uk
new crane Place, E1W
Reception room � kitchen � 2 bedrooms � 2
bathrooms (1 en-suite) � concierge � original
warehouse features � Juliette balcony �
parking space
Asking price: £625,000
Savills Docklands docklands@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Jacana court, E1W 50-51 Bankside, SE1
Reception room � kitchen � 2 bedrooms �
2 bathrooms � balcony � 24 hr concierge �
parking space
dundee court, E1W
Reception room � kitchen � 2 bedrooms
(master bedroom with en suite bathroom) �
bathroom � Juliette balcony � daytime porter
� parking space.
Asking price: £650,000
Savills Docklands docklands@savills.com 020 7456 6800
4 reception rooms � kitchen � 5 bedrooms �
2 bathrooms � south facing shared garden �
conservatory � shared garage
Asking price: £1.3 million Asking Price: £6 million
Savills Docklands docklands@savills.com 020 7456 6800 Savills Docklands docklands@savills.com 020 7456 6800

savills.co.uk
New provideNCe wharf E14
2 bedrooms � 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) � reception
room � open plan kitchen � balcony with river views
private parking � leisure facilities � communal garden
24hr porterage
e1 waterside E1W
2 bedrooms � 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) � open plan
kitchen � reception room � wrap around balcony
overlooking river Thames � private parking
berkeley tower E14
2 bedrooms � 2 en suite bathrooms � guest WC
� kitchen � reception room � balcony � private
parking � porterage � landscaped communal
gardens
£495 per week Furnished £695 per week Flexible Furnishings
Savills Canary Wharf canarywharf@savills.com 020 7531 2500 Savills Canary Wharf canarywharf@savills.com 020 7531 2500
£695 per week Furnished
Savills Docklands docklands@savills.com 020 7456 6800
Christopher Court E1
Duplex apartment � 3 bedrooms � 2 bathrooms
(1 en suite) � open plan kitchen � reception room �
dining area � balcony �2 roof terraces � communal
gardens � 24hr porterage
£1,000 per week Furnished
Savills Docklands docklands@savills.com 020 7456 6800

Sarah Gretton
Savills Waterfront
020 8877 1222
sgretton@savills.com
savills.co.uk
Savills,
for those who
live the river
There are so many reasons to love the river. And so many reasons to live on it.
From the dramatic skyline and stylish developments of historic Docklands to
the vistas of Chiswick and Chelsea and the dreamy banks of Richmond and
Barnes – London river property has a lifestyle and an energy of its own.
Savills Waterfront is a specialist department adding expertise to your
property sale. Our dedicated team from offices across London has all the
know-how of the Thames-side market, the lock-up and leave developments
and the large laid back family homes on both banks.
If you’re thinking of buying, selling, renting or letting on the river set sail
with Savills Waterfront.

SALES
Rosefield Gardens, E14 £149,950
NOTICE OF OFFER: We would advise that an offer has been
made for the above property in the sum of £170,000. Any person
wishing to increase on this offer should notify the SELLING
agents of their best offer prior to exchange of contracts.
Lanterns Court, E14 £435,000
A highly desirable 940ft² brand new two bedroom first floor
apartment for the discerning buyer. Suitable for buy to let
investors and owner occupiers alike, this property will be highly
sought after. Gym, Concierge and close proximity to South
Quay DLR.
West India Quay, E14 £975,000
This amazing 1568ft² one bedroom duplex apartment is the
finest we have seen. Double height ceilings, floor to ceiling
glazing with unrivalled panoramic views, parking, concierge
and access to room service from the neighbouring 5 star
Marriot hotel. West India Quay DLR.
All Awards 2010/11
St Davids Square, E14 £259,950
A third floor one bedroom apartment in immaculate condition.
The flat is well proportioned and has a balcony with River
Views. The development is sought after with fantastic amenities
including 24hr concierge, gym & swimming pool.
Port East Apartments, E14 £765,000
A stunning 1300ft² split level Grade 1 listed two bedroom, two
bathroom warehouse conversion. Modern fitted kitchen and
open plan lounge with access to a private balcony. Rarely
available and only metres away from the business district.
Includes parking and 24hr concierge.
Brightlingsea Place, E14 £1,175,000
A stunning 1700ft² three bed townhouse in the heart of
Limehouse with parking. Versatile accommodation includes
reception with large balcony separate dining room and kitchen
and two en-suite bedrooms. DLR and mainline rail service
within easy reach.
Tazman Court, E14 £340,000
A contemporary 9th floor one bedroom apartment finished to a
high specification with well proportioned living space, balcony
and panoramic views. Unrivalled facilities include gym, pool,
health spa, restaurant and amazing rooftop cocktail lounge.
Belgrave Court, London, E14 £700,000
A luxury two bedroom 5th floor apartment in the prestigious
Canary Riverside. Presented in excellent condition with good
views of the River Thames and benefits including parking,
security, concierge, and the best restaurants that Canary Wharf
has to offer.
Waterman Building, E14 £1,799,950
A spectacular four bed, three bath duplex penthouse boasting
over 2220sqft of internal space, with unparalleled views from
four stunning terraces. Bespoke finishes throughout provide
unique living accommodation quite unlike any other. Superb
location. Viewing highly recommended.

LETTINGS
Aqua Vista, E3 £200pw
Brand new 9th floor studio apartment in eagerly awaited canal
side development in trendy Bow, minutes from the heart of
Canary Wharf’s financial centre with rapid and easy access to
the City, Central and Greater London by public transport.
Baltimore Wharf, E14 £300pw
Stunning new 7th floor studio suite offering luxury living.
Dockside development set around a tranquil boulevard offering
24hr concierge service. Located next to Crossharbour DLR,
and a short walk to Canary Wharf itself.
Landmark East, E14 £540pw
Stunning two bed, two bath 17th floor apartment with views
towards Canary Wharf and the 02 Arena. The internal finishes
are second to none and features included 24hr concierge and
gym. Close to Heron Quay DLR and Canary Wharf Jubilee Line.
Zeta, SpacE1, E1 £250pw
Brand new first floor studio apartment located in dynamic Brick
Lane area. Impeccable finish with an intelligent use of space
and light. Fully furnished to a high standard, early viewing
recommended.
Aqua Vista, E14 £330pw
Brand new two bed luxury canal side apartment in trendy Bow,
minutes from the heart of Canary Wharf and easy access to
the City and Central London. Features include bicycle storage,
communal gardens/roof terrace and concierge.
Baltimore Wharf, E14 £550pw
Superb two bedroom 6th floor flat in a dockside development.
Comprises private balcony and is fully furnished to the highest
standard. On-site concierge, next to Crossharbour DLR Station
Canary Wharf.
11 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4HE
020 7715 9700
joneslanglasalle.co.uk
Aqua Vista, E3 £275pw
Brand new one bed luxury apartment finished to the highest
standard with stylish kitchen, luxury bathroom, bicycle storage,
communal gardens/roof terrace and concierge. Available for
immediate occupation, fully furnished to a luxury standard.
Frances Wharf, E14 £350pw
Bright and modern two bed 2nd floor apartment next to
Limehouse Cut offering excellent value for money in this secure
development. Lovely private balcony offers courtyard views.
Available 5th September 2011.
Landmark East, E14 £625pw
Stunning two bed two bath 40th floor apartment with views
towards Canary Wharf and the 02 Arena. The internal finishes
are second to none and features included 24hr concierge and
gym. Close to Heron Quay DLR and Canary Wharf Jubilee Line.
dockland.sales@eu.jll.com

www.alanselby.co.uk
Chapel House Street E14 £POA
A double fronted Victorian Dockers cottage set on this quiet residential road within 300 metres of Mudchute DLR station. This property requires extensive
modernisation but would make a beautiful home. Formerly a 3 bedroom house but is currently being used as a 2 bedroom with large bathroom (formerly bedroom
3). The accommodation comprises; sitting room, dining room, kitchen and lean to the property also offers a south facing rear garden and a paved front garden.
New Atlas Wharf E14 £414,995
Offering fantastic views from the reception room across a park and onto the River Thames, this 5th floor 2 bedrooms 2 bathroom apartment is set within the New
Atlas Wharf development which boasts a 24 hour porter, gymnasium, Jacuzzi and steam room as well as secure underground parking. The property consists of
reception room, separate kitchen, bathroom and en-suite to the master bedroom as well as a south facing balcony.
Lumina Building E14 £434,995
With Spectacular westerly views across a Dock and on to Canary Wharf with the city beyond this stunning 7th floor 2 bedroom apartment offers light and spacious
accommodation comprising reception room with floor to ceiling windows access to the balcony and a modern open plan kitchen, master bedroom with access to
the balcony and en-suite and bathroom. The development itself offers 24 hour concierge and secure underground parking.
Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants
Sales

Naxos Building, E14 £335 per week
• One bedroom
• Furnished
• River views
020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk
Vanguard Building £430 per week
• 2 bed 2 Bath
• Secure parking
• Direct River Thames views
020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk
• Leisure facilities
• 24 hour concierge
• Gated development
• 24 hour porter
• Leisure facilities
• 6th floor
www.alanselby.co.uk
Ocean Wharf E14 £395 per week
• Two bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Furnished
020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk
Langbourne Place E14 £1100 per week
• Four bedrooms
• Duplex Penthouse
• River View
020 7519 5900 | info@alanselby.co.uk
• Balcony
• Concierge
• Secure parking
Estate Agents | Land & Development Consultants
Lettings
• Secure underground parking
• Day porter
• Close to Canary Wharf

Wharfside Point, Blackwall, E14
Medland House, Limehouse, E14
• One bedroom
• Penthouse • Open plan reception apartment room
• Large • Wooden terrace flooring
• Secure • Concierge underground parking
• Marina £245,000 views
£629,950
Shackleton Court, Isle Of Dogs, E14
• Two bathrooms
• Balcony
£335,000
SOLD Fleet House, Limehouse, E14
SOLD
Milligan Street, Limehouse, E14
• Two bedrooms
• Separate kitchen/diner
• Secure parking
• Direct • Air conditioning river views
• Two £349,950 bedrooms
Cardale Street, Isle of Dogs, E14
• Three double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Large through reception/dining room
Chinnocks • Good decorative Wharf, order Narrow Street, E14
• Two £425,000
bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Direct river views
• Balcony
£525,000
Proton Tower, East India, E14
• One double bedroom
• 11th Two floor double bedrooms
• Balcony Two bathrooms
• River Parking views
£265,000 • Marina views
£399,950
Actions speak
louder
than words.
Adriatic Building, Limehouse, E14
• Investment opportunity
• Two bedrooms
• Balcony
• 24 hour concierge
Contact our sales team
today for a free, no
obligation valuation.
£364,950
SOLD Millennium Harbour, South Quay, E14
New Providence Wharf, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Valet car parking
• River views
• Balcony
•£495,000 Two bathrooms
• Two bedrooms
• River views
• Balcony
£449,950
SOLD Lamb Court, Narrow Street, E14
Rich Street, Limehouse, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Private • Two balcony double bedrooms
• Bright • Two and spacious bathrooms
• Secure • Secure car parking underground parking
£299,950 • Balcony
£349,950
Millennium Drive, Docklands, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Split level apartment
• Fully • furnished Two double bedrooms
£390,000 • Large balcony
SOLD
Neutron Tower, Virginia Quay, E14
• River views
• 11th �oor
£375,000
SOLD
SOLD Millennium Drive, Isle Of Dogs, E14
Dunbar Wharf, Limehouse, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• River facing terrace
• Secure parking
£615,000 • One double bedroom
• Secure car parking
• River views
• Refurbished throughout
£275,000
020 7538 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com
SOLD
Lourdes Estate Agents, 94-96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP
020 7538 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com
Lourdes Estate Agents, 94-96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP

Wharfside Point, Blackwall, E14
• Medland One bedroom House, Limehouse, E14
• •Open Penthouse plan reception apartment room
• •Wooden Large flooring terrace
• •Fitted Secure kitchen underground parking
£275 • Marina per views week
£629,950
Millennium Drive, Isle of Dogs, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Split level apartment
• Direct river views
• Fully furnished
• Two bedrooms
£395
• Two
per
bathrooms
week
• Balcony
£335,000
Shackleton Court, Isle Of Dogs, E14
Basin Approach, Limehouse, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Sixth floor
SOLD Fleet House, Limehouse, E14
SOLD
• Chinnocks Floor to ceiling windows Wharf, Narrow Street, E14
£550 • Two per bedrooms week
• Two bathrooms
• Direct river views
• Balcony
£525,000
Unicorn Building, Limhouse, E1W
• One bedroom
• Private • Two balcony double bedrooms
• River • Two views bathrooms
• Fully • Parking furnished
£325 • Marina per week views
£399,950
Actions speak
louder
than words.
Milligan Street, Limehouse, E14
• Three bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Large reception
• Separate kitchen diner
Contact our sales team
today for a free, no
obligation valuation.
£450 per week
SOLD Millennium Harbour, South Quay, E14
Dunbar Wharf, Limehouse, E14
• Two double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• Two private terraces
• River and park views
£725 • Two per bathrooms week
• Two bedrooms
• River views
• Balcony
£449,950
SOLD Lamb Court, Narrow Street, E14
Aqua Vista, Bow, E3
• Brand new development
• Two double • Two bedrooms double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms • Two bathrooms
• Large •private Secure terrace underground parking
£375 •per Balcony week
£349,950
Free Trade Wharf, Wapping, E1W
• Two double bedrooms
• Two bathrooms
• River views
• • Two double bedrooms
Private balcony
• Large balcony
£475 per week
• River views
• 11th �oor
£375,000
SOLD
SOLD
Neutron Tower, Virginia Quay, E14
SOLD Millennium Drive, Isle Of Dogs, E14
Dundee Wharf, Limehouse, E14
• Sub penthouse apartment
• Three double bedrooms
• 360 views of the river
• Large private terrace
£795 •per One week double bedroom
• Secure car parking
• River views
• Refurbished throughout
£275,000
020 7538 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com
SOLD
Lourdes Estate Agents, 94-96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP
020 7538 9250 www.lourdes-estates.com
Lourdes Estate Agents, 94-96 Three Colt Street, Limehouse, London, E14 8AP

livinglocal
HOT PROPERTY:
Rooms with a View
The prestigious Canary Riverside development is the
setting for this spectacular apartment. The property
features three double bedrooms, three bathrooms, a
large kitchen and dining area and has been decorated
in a contemporary and highly attractive style
throughout, which capitalises on its light and airy feel.
Floor to ceiling windows in the living area offer
unrivalled views of the River Thames and city life
beyond and make it the perfect entertaining venue.
The property also benefits from both a parking
space and an onsite concierge service, equipping
it well for modern lifestyle demands. However, it is
situated within easy reach of the DLR and shops,
bars, restaurants and business centre of Canary
Wharf, enabling a brief and simple commute for those
who live and socialise in the area.

Belgrave Court, e14
£1.5m
Savills
www.savills.co.uk
020 7531 2500
143

Ivory House East Smithfield E1W
cluttons.com
020 7488 4858
wapping@cluttons.com
W A P P I N G
A charming penthouse apartment in this delightful warehouse conversion situated within London’s premier marina residence. Benefitting
from two roof terraces and offering triple aspect views directly onto St Katharine Docks the apartment extends to approx. 2,246 sq ft,
offers a host of characterful warehouse features, wonderful high ceilings and is lavishly presented throughout
reception room with dining area | 4 bedrooms (1 en suite bathroom/1 en suite shower room) | 1 further shower room | kitchen | galleried study |
porter | private parking | balcony | 2 roof terraces
Guide price £3,000,000 leasehold

Cinnabar Wharf Wapping High Street E1W
cluttons.com
020 7488 4858
wapping@cluttons.com
W A P P I N G
A beautifully finished penthouse apartment arranged over two levels within this visually stunning development on the banks of the River
Thames, taking in views of Tower Bridge and 'The Shard of Glass'. This south-facing apartment offers excellent living and entertaining
space, with riverside terraces on both levels and access to an additional roof terrace of approx. 671 sq ft
reception room with dining area | 3 bedrooms (1 en suite bathroom/1 en suite shower room) | 1 further shower room | kitchen | guest cloakroom |
porter | storage room | secure private parking | private roof terrace | 2 riverside terraces
Guide price £2,250,000 leasehold

Hampstead
NW3
Conveniently located for Golders Hill Park and Hampstead Heath, a
substantial double fronted detached five bedroom family house with off
street parking.
This stylish contemporary home offers well planned and spacious
accommodation and features far reaching views from the magnificent
master bedroom suite which is set over the entire top floor.
The garden level is currently utilised as a large family room opening to the
garden with a kitchenette, shower room and large storage room but could
easily be used as a self-contained unit.
Price on APPlicAtion | FreeHolD
resideNtial sales resideNtial lettiNGs prOpertY maNaGemeNt

Redington gaRdens
nW3
A four bedroom raised ground & first floor maisonette, accessed via its own
private entrance and forming part of an attractive red brick ambassadorial
residence.
The apartment is presented in very good condition throughout, spanning
approximately 2,000 sq ft and boasting a wonderful 28’ dual aspect reception
room together with four well proportioned bedrooms. In addition, the flat
enjoys a private patio garden, beautiful lawned communal gardens and off
street parking on a first come first served basis.
The property is ideally located at the end of this quiet cul-de-sac and is within
close proximity of Hampstead Village and the Heath.
£2,250,000 | Share of freehold
20 HeatH stReet HaMPstead ViLLage London nW3 6te

livinglocal livinglocal
WILL IT, won’t it?
148
Ron Radway considers whether the Bank of england Base rate will rise in the
near future
Will the Bank of England base
rate rise in the next few
months? I don’t know, is the
very firm answer!
The consensus of expert
punditry suggests that the rate will not rise, at
least substantially, until late 2012 at the earliest.
However, these are the same expert pundits who
didn’t foresee the credit crunch and can’t cure the
euro and dollar deficit crisis now, nor predict where it
will lead us.
So, can this current rate stability be relied
upon? Throughout history the rate has fluctuated,
sometimes wildly. In 1975 the rate was 11.25 per
cent and varied by only one point during the next
two years. However, in 1977 the rate fell to as low
as five per cent before rising inexorably to 17 per
cent at the end of that decade. While the 1980s
produced less erratic figures, there were still surges
and falls up until 2003 where the situation became
more stable. However, we then saw the credit crunch
which yielded an unprecedented low of 0.5 per cent
in March 2009, where it remains.
Clearly the situation is unpredictable, even more
so, because retail rates are dictated by market
conditions and therefore independent of Bank of
England constraints.
For the borrower, analysis is irrelevant if a
particular product is unsuitable from an emotional
perspective. If you can cope with the vagaries and
fluctuations of a tracker rate then go for it, or if you
prefer the guarantee which a fixed type brings then
don’t be disappointed if the base rate recedes.
Both tracker and fixed rates are currently very
attractive. Trackers with a switch facility are
becoming more prevalent for the undecided, while
the five year fixed deals are offering exceptional
value for money.
With lenders regaining an appetite to lend (to
borrowers that fit their template) and remortgaging
enjoying a revival, this is the best time to dip your toes
into the mortgage market. Enjoy it while it lasts! n
Ron Radway is a mortgage consultant with OneCall
Financial Advice Centre. For further details visit
www.onecallonline.co.uk or call 020 3174 0422

BelgRave Ct, CaNaRY RIveRSIDe, e14
FANTASTIC RIVERVIEW FLAT WITH EASY
CANARY WHARF WALK
n 1,592 Sq. Ft. Beautiful Two, Double Bedroom Apartment
n Stunning Floor To Ceiling Curved Windows
n Juliet Balcony With Breathtaking N.W. View
n Parking Space. Available Mid-December 2011
£1,200,000 LEASEHOLD
mauRetaNIa BuIlDINg, atlaNtIC wHaRf, e1
LOVELY TWO BEDROOM FLAT RIGHT
ON THE RIVER
n Two Double Bedrooms, One Bath Flat on Third Floor
n Open-Plan Layout in Large Dimensioned Flat
n Beautiful Direct River Thames Views. Fabulous Balcony
n Easy Walk to Canary Wharf along River and Narrow Street.
n Allocated Underground Car Parking Space.
£405,000 LEASEHOLD REDUCED
RiverHabitat.co.uk
River Habitat
BaRtHolomew CouRt, vIRgINa QuaY, e14
SUPERB PURCHASE OPPORTUNITY WITH
LARGE BALCONY
n Spacious Two Bed, Two Bath, 5th Floor, River View Flat
n Panoramic Views Of River And 02 Dome
n Easy Walk Into Canary Wharf
n Balcony And Secure Underground Car Parking Space
£395,000 LEASEHOLD
eatoN HouSe, CaNaRY RIveRSIDe, e14
A BEAUTIFUL ONE DOUBLE BEDROOM FLAT
n 859 Sq. Ft. with Balcony
n South Facing
n Double Bedroom, Good Sized Reception, Bathroom, Cloakroom
n One Underground Car Parking Space
n High Spec including Coil Fan Heating and Cooling System
n Portered Building, 24 Hour Security
£480,000 LEASEHOLD
• info@RiverHabitat.co.uk • T: 020 7791 9830 • F: 020 7791 9831 • The Suite LG. 655 Commercial Road, Limehouse, London E14 7LW

Strattondale Street
• Three storey Town House
• Four bedrooms
• Potential for a loft conversion
• Contemporary style kitchen and bathroom
• Large private rear garden
• UPVC double glazing throughout
£424,950
Freehold
new Providence wharf
• 1,600 sq ft Premier Suite
• Three bedrooms, three bathrooms
• South facing wrap around balcony
• Panoramic views of the Thames
• Extensive leisure facilities
• Secure parking bay
• 24 hour Concierge & Security
• Chain free
£1,085,000
Leasehold
Boardwalk Place
• Two bedrooms, two bathrooms
• Marina views
• Secure parking bay
• 24 hour Concierge & Security
• Chain free
• Choice of two
from £404,950
Leasehold
Fisks Docklands Ltd
2 Parker House
Admirals Way
London
E14 9UQ
A Fisk Ltd Franchise
T: 020 7517 8810
F: 020 7517 7902
dockands@fisks.co.uk
www.fisks.co.uk
Residential Sales
Lettings
Property Management

California Building,
Deals Gateway, SE13
• Two Bedroom Apartment
• Fully Furnished
• 1st Floor
• On-site Facilities
• 24 Hour Concierge
• Nr. Deptford Bridge DLR
£300.00 per week
Wotton Court,
Virginia Quay, E14
• Two Bedroom Apartment
• Fully Furnished
• 9th Floor
• Balcony
• Secure Underground Parking
• Concierge Service
£400 per week
The Landmark,
East Block, E14
• Two Bedroom Apartment
• Fully Furnished
• 27th Floor
• Fully Equipped Gymnasium
• 24hr Concierge Service
• Walking Distance to Canary Wharf
£550 per week
Central London
020 7582 7989
London's Finest Properties
LETTINGS SALES
Barge Walk,
City Peninsula, SE10
• Two Bedroom Apartment
• Fully Furnished
• 2nd Floor
• Parking Available
• Concierge Service
• Nr. North Greenwich
£370 per week
The Oxygen,
Royal Docks, E16
• Two Bedroom Apartment
• Fully Furnished
• 9th Floor
• Balcony
• Parking Available
• Concierge Service
£440 per week
Mulberry Court,
Shadwell, E1
• Three Bedroom Apartment
• Two Bathroom
• Fully Furnished
• Ground Floor
• Parking Available
• Nr. Shadwell St
£625 per week
Sales | Lettings | Corporate Services | Property Management
www.liferesidential.co.uk
West London
020 8896 9990
Finchley
020 8446 9524
Royal Arsenal, SE18
• 3rd Floor 2 Bed Duplex Apartment
• Unique And Historic Riverside
Development
• Secure Allocated Parking
• Exceptional Transport Links
• 24hr Gym, Concierge And On-Site
Bars / Restaurants
£392,500
New Providence Wharf,
Canary Wharf, E14
• 4th Floor
• Stunning Riverside Development
• 2 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom
• Balcony
• Valet Parking
• Moments from DLR and Jubilee Line
£399,999
New Providence Wharf,
Canary Wharf, E14
• 2 Bedroom / 2 Bathroom Apartment
• Highly Prestigious Riverside Development
• Excellent Condition Throughout
• Valet Parking
• 24hr Concierge and Exceptional Leisure
Facilities
£468,950
Docklands
020 7476 0125
Lowry House,
Canary Central, E14
• One Bedroom/ One Bathroom
• Exceptional Order Throughout
• Fully Furnished
• 24hr Concierge
• On Site Pool And Leisure Facilities
• Moments From South Quay DLR
£249,950
No 1 Pepys Street, E1
• 4th Floor
• Spacious 1 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom
• Exceptional Order Throughout
• Secure Allocated Parking
• Fully Furnished
• Porterage
£435,000
New Providence Wharf, E14
• Stunning 10th Floor Apartment
• Uninterrupted River Views From Front
And Rear
• Excellent Condition Throughout
• Secure Underground Parking
• 24hr Concierge And Exceptional
Leisure Facilities
£555,000
Deptford & Greenwich
020 8692 2244

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

newhomes
ProPerty Latest
By Ben West
Prime centraL
London saLes
and Lettings
reach aLL
time high
Prime London property prices
have risen by 9.6 per cent in
the last year and are now 35
per cent higher than the postcredit
crunch trough in March
2009. Not only that, but prime
London property prices rose by 0.7
per cent in July, taking values to a
record high.
The prime London rental sector
is also booming: on average, rents
are now one per cent higher than
their previous peak in March 2008.
“Once again the main reasons for
high strength demand in the prime
central London market are the
overseas purchasers and low stock
levels,” says Noel Flint, head of London
residential at Knight Frank. “In the
last month our offices have seen more
interest from buyers from continental
Europe, possibly due to the ongoing
Eurozone crisis as well as London
providing a more cosmopolitan lifestyle.”
Snazzy Student accommodation
The student accommodation sector has remained extraordinarily
buoyant despite the downturn, kept afloat by the imbalance of supply
and demand of student housing felt in many university cities across
the UK.
With the assurance of a guaranteed long term income and appealing
yields, investors have been snapping up purpose built student
accommodation residences left right and centre, with an estimated
£347,675,000 committed to the sector in the UK since the beginning
of 2011, according to the latest report from CB Richard Ellis 2011.
Indeed, student numbers have been rising year-on-year over the last
five years, increasing by four per cent last year alone, according to
the report, with the growth in university students putting considerable
pressure on the existing student housing stock across the country.
However, if your memories of student digs are of shabby box rooms
and a kitchen in disrepair, today’s students are rather more discerning.
A great number are now seeking high quality housing, contemporary
interiors and city centre locations.
An early Ramadan this year meant
that Middle Eastern buyers spent
less time in London earlier this year,
however Flint predicts that September
will see increased interest from Middle
eastern buyers escaping the hottest
months in their home countries.

Launch of new Buy to Let centres
Buy-to-let investors are always
looking for more efficient ways of
investing in buy-to-let properties.
For this reason the Buy to Let Centre
has launched, consisting of 65 high
street-based branches across the UK
located within leading independent
estate and lettings agents.
The Buy to Let Centre was founded
by industry experts Tim Hammond
and Richard Rawlings and is run
alongside their Homebuyer Centre
branch network.
Whilst other companies dealing
in buy-to-let investment may focus
on seminars, schemes and secret
strategies, Buy to Let Centres
focus on local area knowledge,
local property market expertise, and
independent and impartial advice.
“We start with your requirements,
demonstrate realistic returns and
provide expert opinion and advice
Has glass got class?
According to the Royal Institution of
Chartered Surveyors (RICS), adding a
conservatory can raise your house’s
value by a respectable four to five
per cent. “When care is taken,
conservatories can be a work of art,
our purchasers are always wowed
when they walk into a conservatory
that has had time, thought and energy
put into it,” says James Wyatt, partner
of estate agency Barton Wyatt.
The benefits of a conservatory are
multiple. They can provide greater
living space and can add light into a
home. For the same reasons, estate
agencies are also reporting increased
interest in orangeries.
on the best and most credible buy
to let and property investments on
the property market,” says Hammond.
“Our branches enable you to invest
anywhere in the UK and our local experts
manage the property sourcing, lettings
and management for you. We’ll help you
acquire high yield properties in areas
with strong tenant demand and maximise
the return on your investment. You can
be assured of independent and impartial
advice,” says buy-to-let industry expert,
Kate Faulkner.
“Too often I see buy to let investors
fall for unrealistic claims of ‘below
market value’, achieving ‘financial
freedom’ and hoping to ‘become
a property millionaire’ with little money
and in a short time, which is unrealistic.
Buy-to-let is a long term investment
and it’s essential people have the right
strategy to meet their objectives. They
need to seek local expert advice on
house prices and rents and take time
comparing property deals. During this
difficult market, successful buy-tolet
is possible, but you need to work
with property professionals on the
ground who are motivated by your long
term success.”
The Buy To Let Centre
www.thebuytoletcentre.com
NEWS IN BRIEF
SpEEdINg up thE coNvEyaNcINg pRocESS
Kinleigh Folkhard and Hayward
(KFH) have introduced a
new quick conveyancing
service, which has
dramatically reduced
the time it can take to
buy and sell.
Londonwide
Conveyancing is a panel
of carefully selected law
firms geared to speeding
up the conveyancing process.
As they are used to working with each
other, communication is considerably better
than normal. The new initiative has resulted
in the average time to get a sale to exchange
reducing to 24 days, compared to an average
turnaround time when using solicitors outside
the scheme of nine weeks and five days. The
lack of delays results in far less clients dropping
out during a sale, too.
Londonwide Conveyancing, 0800 023 1800
www.londonwideconveyancing.com
ElItE INSuRaNcE
Debrett’s, the modern day authority on
etiquette, has launched its own range of
insurance for affluent home owners. Debrett’s
Prestige Insurance was developed in response
to the needs of its professional audience, in
association with hand-picked expert advisers.
Cover for property, fine art and other
valuables such as motoring and aviation
equipment is available and can be subsumed
into a single policy by a dedicated broker who
acts on behalf of the client.
The service is available to anyone whose
contents are worth over £75,000 or whose
home has a greater value than £1m.
For more information visit www.debretts.com
155

newhomes
DEVELOPMENT FOCUS
City Style in the Garden of England
Urban EvolUtion arE offEring
gorgEoUs family homEs, within Easy
commUting distancE of thE city
We are all aware that the
London property market
offers some magnificent
homes. However, city
professionals desiring a more
rural setting will often look further afield, seeking
to maximise space and value for money without
compromising on style.
With this in mind, acclaimed designers Urban
Evolution have recently launched a striking new
development of 14 unique townhouses, set in an
elevated position in Chislehurst, Kent.
Located on Woodclyffe Drive, Dene Terrace
offers tremendous views of woodland and the
perfect opportunity for residents to immerse
themselves in village life. However, the site is just
300 metres from Chislehurst station, enabling an
easy commute to London Bridge (18 minutes) and
Waterloo East (21 minutes).
Urban Evolution is renowned for its high end
projects in Belgravia and the surrounding areas and
each of the Dene Terrace properties occupy an
impressive 3,700 sq ft. They are based around a
large entertaining space consisting of three reception
rooms and a family kitchen and breakfast room with
a flexible layout to suit the buyer’s lifestyle. It may
be that future residents prefer to dine in the area
which leads out into the garden, or choose to theme
this space as a beautiful sitting room.
In addition, each home offers five bedrooms,
including the master suite, which has its own roof
terrace, three bathrooms and a laundry, which ensure
they are well equipped for family living.
In keeping with the high specification finish one
would expect in London, atmospheric Lutron lighting
installations are fitted to main rooms, oak flooring,
handmade joinery and brass door fittings feature
throughout and the homes are as energy efficient as
possible, befitting of a modern luxury development.
Outside, the properties have an attractive Georgian
style as well as private, landscaped front and rear
gardens. They are set back within an elegant gated
community to ensure privacy and security and parking
is allocated underground for two cars.
The local area is both an attractive and interesting
base for young families who tend to stay for years
to come. Seven out of the 12 schools located within

a five mile radius of Dene Terrace have been rated
as Outstanding by Ofsted, which should be a great
incentive for parents.
In addition there is picturesque countryside all
around ready to be explored, leisure facilities include
golf courses, horse-riding, tennis and cricket clubs
and the local village is a haven of boutique shops,
highly regarded restaurants, and friendly people.
With such a lovely location and sophisticated
design, it is surprising, but obviously no less
encouraging, that the prices for the townhouses are
less than those of Hampstead, Fulham and other
neighbourhoods with a similar commute time.
Factors such as this have led to Dene Terrace
being awarded numerous prizes from publications and
industry bodies including Best UK House and the silver
award for Interior Design from What House and Best
Property in Kent from the UK Property Awards. n
Available from £1,385,000.
www.deneterrace.co.uk
Star apartment
Set over five floors, the two show homes are as grand and spacious as they
are attractive. The third reception room can be used as a slick cinema/media
room or an open galleried dining room, depending on the buyer’s preference,
while the top floor forms a master suite with a dressing room, large
bathroom and sweeping terrace offering lovely views over the treetops.
The finest finishes are incorporated into the show homes. The décor is
plush yet neutral creating a chic and relaxing ambience. Integrated audio and
high-definition SKY TV attest to the latest technology and the curtains and
blinds in principal rooms are electric.
The kitchens are warm and inviting spaces, with all units and islands
hand-made to ensure a perfect fit. Oak flooring serves as a high quality
statement feature and marble worktops have been provided by Carrera,
alongside double ceramic sinks, Perrin & Rowe taps and Siemens appliances.
The bathroom tiles are both natural stone and ceramic and Lefroy Brooks
sanitary ware.
157

LUXURY HOLIDAY
LODGES FOR SALE
in the Surrey Hills
At Haulfryn we know how important rest,
relaxation and time away from the daily
stresses and strains of life is.
With your own luxurious home away from
home you can get up and go whenever you
want and start enjoying yourself the instant
you arrive.
We cater for most budgets with prices
ranging from £67,995 to £264,000.
Fuel Fuel economy figures for for the the Continental GT GT in in mpg mpg (l/100km):
Urban To 11.1 11.1 book (25.4); Extra your Urban VIP 24.9 24.9 park (11.4); experience
Combined 17.1 17.1 (16.5).
CO CO 2 Emissions 2 Emissions (g/km): 384. 384.
or to request a brochure
Call: 08433 092395
Visit: www.edgeley-country.co.uk
Haulfryn’s Edgeley Country Park at Farley Green offers a
relaxing haven of stunning luxury lodges surrounded by 26
acres of secluded woodland. With fantastic on park leisure
facilities and its close proximity to golf courses, horse riding
and the popular Surrey Cycleway, Edgeley Country Park is the
perfect retreat to escape from everyday life.
- Luxury lodges from just £67,995
- New development for 2011
- Stunning views of the Surrey Hills
- 12 month holiday season
- Indoor swimming pool and fitness suite
- Fully managed letting service
CALL NOW
FOR OUR
MANAGERS
SPECIALS

These are modern times.
The world, has changed. It’s as though we don’t have
enough time. We’ve replaced words with letters,
conversations with status updates, and faces with avatars.
Wouldn’t it be nice to talk to real people who really do :)
and actually LOL? We think so too.
Estate Agents
020 7474 5505
docklands@madisonbrook.com
www.madisonbrook.com

Bespoke living
Emerson Park, Hornchurch, Essex
A mansion of grand proportions, built to the highest
9 Stunning Bedrooms
4 Large Reception Rooms Large Open Garden
8 Bathrooms Intelligent Lighting
Cinema Room Gated Carriage Driveway
Freehold For Sale
O�er in excess of £3,000,000
Tel: 020 8518 6555
148 Cranbrook Road, Ilford,
Essex IG1 4LZ
Fax: +44 (0)208 518 6444
www.pmcompany.co.uk
All enquiries welcome

UNIQUE HOMES, UNIQUE SERVICE, UNIQUE PEOPLE
A tailored ser vice from Langford Russell for distinctive and exc lusive homes
PARK AVENUE, FARNBOROUgH PARK, KENT
One of the few original houses on this exclusive private Estate
occupying a magnificent plot of approximately 1.5 acres with
manicured lawns, all weather tennis court, orchard and woodland.
Five double bedrooms, three reception rooms c. 3200 sq feet.
There is further potential, subject to renewed planning permission
to extend the house over and beyond the triple garage block.
£2,850,000 Freehold
Unique at Langford Russell
Chislehurst Office
13 High Street,
Chislehurst, Kent BR7 5AB
Tel 020 8378 1222
Email enquiries@uniquepropertiesuk.com
Offices Also At:
Beckenham & Bromley
CHARTHAM HOUSE, KESTON VILLAgE, BR2
Just 14 miles from Central London, this spectacular new manor
house has a unique woodland setting sited upon a south-facing
plateau with wonderful views over open countryside. c.10, 000 sq ft.
Six bedrooms and bathrooms, four principal receptions including a
breathtaking dining room with a dramatic vaulted ceiling. Complete
with home cinema, bar area, gymnasium and steam room.
£4,850,000 Freehold
UNIQUE is a Specialist Division of Langford Russell
www.uniqueproper tiesuk.com
www.langfordrussell.co.uk

© London 2012
newhomes
State of the market
162
ALASDAIR CARPENTER, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LOURDES ESTATE
AGENTS, COMMENTS ON THE STATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL
the East London property market is
today the beneficiary of yet more good
news. The 27 hectare Olympic Village
has been sold for £557m to a Delancey
and Qatari Diar partnership. The deal
agreed with the Olympic Delivery Authority also
includes provision for a future profit share for the
public sector and is in addition to the £268m already
secured by the sale of 1,379 affordable housing units
on the site.
The deal sees Delancey and Qatari Diar acquiring
1,439 homes on the Olympic Village site, plus six
further development sites adjacent to the Village
with the potential for a further 2,000 new homes.
The bulk of these new properties will be rented
PROPERTY MARKET
OLYMPIC VILLAGE SOLD
out, rather than sold, creating a UK private sector
residential investment fund. Deals of this nature
have become increasingly attractive to large
investment funds and consortiums in recent times
due to the bullish rental market. Many commercial
property funds are now shifting focus to the
residential market. This is relatively new to the
UK as these funds have previously focused their
attentions on the US and German property markets
where rental demand has been strong for decades.
Such is the interest in the UK market, Delancy
and Qatari Diar had to fight off a rival bid from
Hutchison Whampoa, a company owned by Hong
Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing.
Jamie Ritblas, Delancey’s chief executive has
said “This is a long term project for us. We are
looking to retain the neighbourhood and create a
place where people will want to live, work and play
for years to come.
This will be welcome news to everyone involved in
the legacy left by the Olympic Games and tax payers
in general. Originally the Olympic Village was supposed
to be a private venture but when the credit crunch
hit and funding all but dried up, the Government were
forced to take control. The cost to the tax payer was
a constant talking point. Now at least the bulk of the
cost will be recuperated and the future of the site has
been guaranteed.
In addition to affordable housing and luxury
homes, Delancey have committed to providing
schools, healthcare facilities and open spaces. This
is a clear indication of the confidence large investors
have in the long term future of East London. It
is also a big step towards the communities that
Londoners had always hoped would be created by the
Olympic legacy.
Who said August is a quiet time for the property
market?! n
Lourdes Estate Agents
020 7538 9245
www.lourdes-estates.com

T H E U L T I M A T E C O L L E C T I O N
The Landmark E14 is proud to launch The Ultimate Collection – the most refined and
stunning apartments within the highest point of The Landmark. The collection comprises
eight high level premier Apartments and Penthouses on the 43rd and 44th floors, boasting
unbeatable and rare views across the river to the City of London and Canary Wharf.
Prices from £975,000 - £1,650,000 *
Now available for viewing
w w w. T H E L A N d M A r k - E 1 4 . C O M
For more information, please call:
020 7078 7981
*Prices correct at time of going to press

HIRSH
L O N D O N
TRILOGY COLLECTION
HANDMADE IN PLATINUM
Famous for engagement rings
www.hirshlondon.com
WEST END 56-57 BURLINGTON ARCADE W1J 0QN T 020 7499 6814 - CITY 9 HATTON GARDEN EC1N 8AH T 020 7831 3333