PDF - Embassy Gardens

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IS S UE N• 1
TH E J OU RNAL OF E MBASSY GAR DE NS AND THE NINE E LMS D ISTR ICT
S PR I N G 2 0 16
CREATI VE DIR E CTO R O F CO NTE NT – NIK THAKKAR
E DITO R IAL D E SIGN – MADE THOUGHT
CONTE NT DIR E CTO R – HAYLEIGH O’FARRELL
CO NTE NT E D ITO R – MONICHA TULLY
COMMEN TARY – SEAN MULRYAN AND TERRY FARRELL
COVE R PHOTO GR APHY – OZ THAKKAR
W RI TERS – JAKE HALL, REBECCA BOYCE, MONIQUE KAWECKI, SHWETAL PATEL
CONTE NT TE AM – TCG, LFJ PR, MOMXDAD
ILLUSTR ATIO NS – ACHRAF AMIRI
REDEFINING LONDON’S SKYLINE
THE NARRATIVE OF THE CITY THROUGH ARCHITECTURE
LA PETITE ANGLAISE
TALKING STYLE IN SOUTH WEST LONDON
WITH MODEL AND BLOGGER ELLA CATLIFF
4
8
THE GLOBAL SOUTH 14
THE RE-IMAGINED SOUTH LONDON ART SCENE
FASHION’S BEST KEPT SECRET 18
DISCOVER THE CREATIVE BUZZ SOUTH OF THE RIVER
AROUND EMBASSY GARDENS 20
RICHARD YOUNG 22
BEHIND THE LENS OF LONDON’S MOST
CELEBRATED NIGHTLIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS
THE ALKEMISTRY LAUNCH AT THE EG:LE CLUB 24
COCKTAILS AND JEWELLERY FOR AN INSPIRING NIGHT
DIAMOND IN THE DIRT 26
THE CREATIVE GENIUS OF BRITISH ARTIST, DANIEL LISMORE
FOUR TRANSATLANTIC CREATIVES 28
MEET FOUR OF THE MOST PROMISING CREATIVES
EMBLEMATIC OF A NEW GENERATION
LONDON’S HIGH LINE, NYC – LDN 30
THE GREEN LINK BETWEEN THE U.K AND THE U.S
FROM CURATION TO CREATION 32
EMBASSY GARDENS IS HOME TO THREE
NEW PUBLIC SCULPTURES
34 GIVING THE PEOPLE OF NINE ELMS
A GREAT GREEN SPACE
LINEAR PARK RAISES THE BAR FOR THE FUTURE
OF INTEGRATED GREEN SPACES
36 THE BEAUT Y IN NATURE
AN ESCAPE INTO THE MIND AND WORLD
OF FLORAL ARTIST, REBECCA LOUISE LAW
38 SWEET ON SOUTH LONDON
THE WHIMSICAL CREATIONS DREAMT UP BY LILY JONES,
OWNER OF FAMED ARTISANAL BAKERY LILY VANILLI
39 LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
LUXURY BRITISH FASHION BRAND FOUNDED BY DESIGNER,
SOUTH LONDON RESIDENT TABITHA SOMERSET WEBB
40 WAITROSE X HESTON
A SENSORY EXPERIENCE WITH HESTON BLUMENTHAL
RANGE OF UNORTHODOX RECIPES
42 DINING IN NINE ELMS
THE REGENERATION OF NINE ELMS HAS CREATED
A DIVERSE AND VIBRANT LEISURE OFFER FOR FOOD
AND DRINKS
44 EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
CLASSIC ELEGANCE MEETING CONTEMPORARY STYLE,
DISCOVER EMBASSY GARDENS MEMBERS’ CLUB
52 A MODERN MAN
A CINEMATIC JOURNEY WITH DIGITAL HEARTTHROB
AND MODEL DIEGO BARRUECO
ARCHITECTURE
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NINE BY EMBASSY GARDENS
Architecture extends beyond mere aesthetics; it tells the
narrative of its city, whose history and culture are intrinsically
weaved into every line and curve of its buildings.
Architecture also contributes towards identity; global
perception of a city is down to its inhabitants, its physical
environment and its culture. Architecture is a harmonious
celebration of these three elements and as our globe
becomes a smaller place, worldwide perception becomes
even more fundamental.
Redefining
London’s
Skyline
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ARCHITECTURE
Luckily for us, London is home to some of the
world’s most phenomenal contemporary and
classical architecture from St Paul’s to The
Shard. Embassy Gardens, the vision of
Ballymore Group CEO Sean Mulryan, is a
new development that complements this
iconic architecture and forms the heart of
Nine Elms on the South Bank. Mulryan
wanted the development to push the boundaries of design, construction and engineering
and we can now see his vision coming to life.
He said: “Walking into one of our developments should be a unique, breathtaking
experience. I’m very passionate about the synergy between great design, architecture and
art – and what it means for Ballymore buildings. For Ballymore, everything must be
culturally led, art led and design led, that is
always our focus.
To achieve this Mulryan teamed up with Terry
Farrell who worked with Ballymore to create
a master plan for Embassy Gardens.
Farrell was recently asked whether a development like Embassy Gardens ought to be
architecturally sympathetic or architecturally groundbreaking. He said: “Architecture is
not that simple. Much like the World War Two
Spitfire, parts of which were manufactured in
the Art Deco factory that is now my home in
Paddington, architecture and the concept of
the aesthetic continually evolve.”
Nine Elms on the Southbank, the area in
which Embassy Gardens is situated, spans an
area equivalent to Mayfair and Belgravia combined. It is undoubtedly the most exciting
chapter in the narrative of London and most
likely the last time that the capital will see the
creation of a new district as vast as this.
Cllr Ravi Govindia, leader of Wandsworth
Council since 2011 and a councillor for the
area since 1982, has had a very hands-on role
in the development of the area and is co-chair
of the Nine Elms Strategy Board.
He recently confessed: “I feel incredibly proud
to have been so involved in the development
of the area. There is such great potential to
improve the lives of so many people and
change the landscape of central London”.
Embassy Gardens is the collective result of some
of the industry’s most innovative minds.
Working with fantastic designers in these
disciplines helps us make fantastic opening
statements at our schemes. At Embassy
Gardens we travelled to New York to photograph bricks in the old Meatpacking District
to get the right colours; the brickwork at
Embassy Gardens matches in terms of shades
and texture. We wanted to create an environment with a distinctive character”
He added: “London embodies this and must
continue to do so. We need to nurture its spirit
and carefully conserve its history and classical
architecture, but in doing so, we must not
forget how varied the stories of different parts
of London are. There does not need to be
uniformity in the aesthetic of London, juxtaposition can be astonishingly beautiful.”
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Mayor of London Boris Johnson has also
echoed this excitement for the development:
“Undoubtedly the most exciting new chapter
in the story of London and quite possibly the
last time the capital will see the creation of
such a completely new district.”
With all eyes on the development Farrell believed
“It was critical that Embassy Gardens reflects
the history of the area, its future and its
differences from other areas of London.
The development unlocks the potential of a
complete Southbank, from Battersea to
London Bridge, and is evidence that London
is finally investing in itself again.”
He continued: “For many years, the UK has
been an exporter of architectural excellence,
but we have not been demanding enough of
the new developments in the majority of our
towns. The UK should be a showcase for what
can be achieved when planners, landscapers,
architects, conservationists, engineers, artists,
developers and builders work together.
I sincerely hope that in this vein, Embassy
Gardens can set an example for the rest of the
country to follow and, in the longer term, inspire a great deal more interest in architecture
among the British people.”
Embassy Gardens is the collective
result of some of the industry’s most
innovative minds. To achieve his
vision, Mulryan enlisted the support
of a palate of world-renowned architects and designers.
and the materials. In this case it was oak
timber, brass and natural stone, all selected
because they provide feelings of warmth and
high quality. To inject the intended juxtaposition, we also used glossy lacquers with bright
colours to give that palette a fresher, stronger
contrast.”
Finishing touches come in the form of three
artwork installations, unveiled to coincide
with 2015’s Frieze Art Fair, as well a 35-metre
high Sky Pool; a collaborative effort between
engineering group Arup Associates, Eckersley
O’Callaghan and aquarium specialists
Reynolds.
Alluding to its originality, O’Callaghan
confirmed that the Sky Pool is an avant-garde
design, He said: “There are some examples of
swimming pools on top of buildings but none
Internally, designer Luis Bustamante
was recruited to assist with Embassy
Gardens’ communal spaces.
Mulryan wanted the instant
wow-factor that only Bustamante
could provide.
Bustamante revealed: “As a sculptor, I conceive
a space as a whole piece of art where there is
an interplay between the geometry of the space
Mulryan’s vision for the project was to ensure
that the pool was not only an exhilarating experience, but also functional and aesthetically pleasing,
Ballymore’s design team were mindful of the surrounding landscape,
recognising that the project would
have to work in the larger context of
London’s existing cityscape. This
level of consideration will make the
overall result feel experiential as well
as visual.
The designers had a relatively blank
canvas, but had to respect the viewing corridors through to the Palace
of Westminster, provide a suitable
backdrop for the new US Embassy
and be mindful that the spaces
between the buildings will be key to
the development’s success”.
Mulryan said: “Due to its prominence, first impressions of Embassy
Gardens are crucial. Residents and
visitors must be wowed from that
very first second. I wanted designs
that would become talking points;
they had to embody culture relevant
to this area of London.”
Bustamante was tasked with the
development of a unique concept,
one that integrated global design
standards whilst retaining the distinct identity of Nine Elms and London. His intention
was to create a hybrid internal space, which
fused London’s heritage with the use of
traditional materials. These elements would
then be clashed with daring, vibrant materials
symbolic of Embassy Gardens and its
bold nature.
Complex calculations including water
pressure had to be considered from a logistics
standpoint, making the operation extremely
difficult. Of course, there’s also the factor of
the immense weight. Water can be deceptively heavy, especially when deep. If you consider a square metre area at the bottom of a pool,
every 1m depth of water weighs about the same
of a small car. The solution to these various
problems is to make the pool from acrylic not
glass– a design decision made for both
practical and aesthetic reasons. O’Callaghan
revealed: “Glass would need thick glass panels
and complex bolted connections. Using acrylic allows a more transparent overall structure,
and the chemical bonds between the individual acrylic pieces are very strong and almost
invisible to the naked eye.”
that straddle two structures at this height and
on this scale, this is very much a first and
a tricky technical challenge which wouldn’t
have been possible without the engineering
developments.” A significant challenge is that
the pool is supported on two buildings which
will move slightly different when windy and
from typical building movements, such as
settlement. Bearings will support the pool
structure and allow for some degree of movement. In this respect, you could think of the
project as a bridge.”
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There’s a famous saying in the world
of architecture, which comes courtesy of Julia Morgan. Renowned as
a trailblazer for women in the world
of architecture, she once said that
“architecture is a visual art, and the buildings
speak for themselves.”
The Embassy Gardens project seeks to
confirm this statement, acting as a welcome
addition to iconic London architecture.
Mulryan concluded: “I want the places I create
to leave a positive legacy, to stand the test of
time and further London’s tradition for
outstanding architecture.”
B Y M O N I C H A T U L LY A N D J A K E H A L L
FAS H I O N
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H av i n g c a u g h t t h e eye o f s o m e o f t h e f a s h i o n i n d u s t r y ’s m o s t i n f l u e n t i a l
b r a n d s s u c h a s C H A N E L , K a te S p a d e, C h o p a r d a n d Va l e n t i n o to n a m e a f e w,
model and luxury lifestyle blogger Ella Catliff shares her deep affection
for Nine Elms.
La Petite Anglaise
E L L A C AT L I F F
P H OTOG RAP H Y BY OZ THAKKAR, MAKE UP BY ANNMARIE LAWSON
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FAS H I O N
The rise of the Internet over the past
decade has seen passion projects
such as blogs become big business.
Digital influencers have dominated
the media and particularly the fashion
world. Conventional celebrities and
supermodels are being ushered
aside as fashion bloggers are now
gracing the cover of Vogue, sitting
front row at the most illustrious
shows at Fashion Week and appearing in campaigns for fashion powerhouses such as Louis Vuitton, Dior
and Cartier. These digital influencers
have emerged from behind the
screen and are bringing innovation,
creativity and millions of dedicated
followers to brands. Ella Catliff, better
known as La Petite Anglaise is one
of these powerhouse advocates
inspiring the new generation.
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Ella is the founder of fashion, lifestyle and beauty blog, La Petite When Ella is not enjoying luxurious lunches at the Ivy Chelsea
Anglaise. Over the years she has garnered an impressive and de- Garden, she is seeking more edible cultural delights in Brixton.
voted audience that follow Ella’s personal style religiously. Ella has She revealed: “Three Little Birds is a great place for lethally strong
got serious fashion credentials; she has signed to Storm Model rum cocktails and Jamaican inspired bites, whilst Boqueria is my
Management, home to Kate Moss, Poppy Delevigne and Jourdan go-to place for great tapas.”
Dunn as well as having gained a First Class Honours degree in
Fashion History and Theory from Central Saint Martins.
Growing up in London, Ella has witnessed first-hand the evolution of
the city and its architectural landscape, particularly in South London.
La Petite Anglaise has caught the eye of some of the fashion
industrie’s most influential brands. She has worked with Chanel, She exclaimed: “Where to begin! The architectural landscape
Kate Spade, Chopard and Valentino to name but a few.
of London is such a rich and fascinating one; I love the contrasts
between traditional and contemporary architecture, as well as the
South London has long been an intrinsic part of Ella’s life. She has myriad of different styles of buildings within both of those broad
set up home in leafy South West London and spent much of her categories. The most obvious architectural change has been
teenage years shopping on The King’s Road in Chelsea and eating the extensive construction of hyper modern high rise buildings,
in the wide array of restaurants in Battersea.
especially in the city and along the Thames.”
I’m really looking forward to seeing
the development along the river at Nine Elms.
E L L A C AT L I F F
She said: “The past couple of years have seen the area massively Ella has a deep affection for the spectacular Nine Elms develexpand its offering, with the opening of shops ranging from luxury opment. She recently shot an exclusive project with YSL Beauty
brands like Chanel to Sloane Square’s giant J.Crew store, Rag and at Embassy Gardens.
Bone and Club Monaco.”
She said: “I’m really looking forward to seeing the development
She added: “On the off occasion I have time, I love a wander from along the river at Nine Elms. It’s incredible how dramatically an
High Street Kensington through South Kensington to the end of area can develop in a very short space of time. I’m really excited to
the King’s Road, stopping anywhere and everywhere that takes see how the riverside areas change and new businesses, shops,
my fancy. Followed by a long lunch at Ivy Chelsea Garden along cafes, restaurants and bars spring up.”
the way, there really is nowhere quite like it.”
It’s not just Nine Elms that’s thriving; It girl Ella’s diary has been
South London’s food culture is eclectic to say the least. From filled with lucrative projects and non stop travel. Recent projects
Michelin-starred restaurants to thriving street markets, there is include fronting the French Sole x Liberty and Bulgari Harrods
something for everyone.
Launch campaigns as well collaborating with Swarovski Atelier
during Paris Haute Couture Week and taking over the Maserati
GB Instagram account for the entirety of January, telling a stylised
London story with the sleek Quattroporte. The future is bright
for Ella Catliff.
B Y M O N I C H A T U L LY
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FAS H I O N
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S h o t a t E m b a s sy G a r d e n s
13
ART
The recently unveiled sculpture park in Embassy Gardens sees
a giant bronze marrow, the work of YBA-veteran Sarah Lucas
(who last year represented the UK at the Venice Biennale),
situated alongside a large wedding ring-embedded foot,
and a steel lightening rod, sculpted by up and coming artists
Simon Fujiwara and Mohammad Qasim Ashfaq respectively.
Sir Norman Rosenthal, who curated the sculptures, notes that
‘taken together, they represent perfectly the rich diversity
of London’s cultural art scene.’
South London based artist Nettie Wakefield
The meaning of ‘Young British Artists’ as applied to the region
has certainly diversified, to mirror the longer term ethnic and
social diversity found concentrated South of the river.
The Global
South
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“Invictus” by Adjani okpu-egbe, 2014
“Self Portrait” by Adjani okpu-egbe, 2015
“Portrait” by Nettie Wakefield
Qasim Ashfaq is currently on show as part of
WHAT WE ALL LACK at the Hannah Barry
Gallery. The history of which provides insight
into the trajectory taken by the South London
art scene over the past decade. It can be traced
back to one of a number of infamous art
collectives-cum-squats which emerged in the
00s as a collaborative network of SouthLondon based artists, gallerists and curators,
digital natives for whom transience, movement and regeneration is the status quo. James
Balmforth, part of the infamous !WOWOW!
collective with Matthew Stone and Gareth
Pugh, later served as a founding member of
the influential group of artists based at
78 Lyndhurst Way. In 2007, upon the group’s
eviction, Hannah Barry joined forces with the
artists to stage a series of temporary exhibition
sites before forming the now eponymous
Hannah Barry Gallery, in the Copeland
Cultural Quarter of the Bussey building, now
itself a landmark warehouse space. As well as
forming long-term relationships with up and
coming artists, working with and around their
artistic development, Barry was instrumental
in the formation of Bold Tendencies, a perennial rooftop sculptural park which for the past
decade has attracted increasing swaths of the
international art world to the roof of a local
car park in Peckham.
Barry, recently referred to by Vogue as the
‘doyenne of the South London art scene,’ has
twice transposed elements of this ‘scene’ to
the Venice Biennale, under the auspices of a
‘Peckham Pavilion’ in 2009, as the celebrated
‘Palazzo Peckham’ in 2013, and last year commissioned an amphibian-like machine event
15
entitled Six Step by upcoming artist James
Capper for the Rio dell’Orso. Barry responded to initial surprise over Peckham’s appearance at the Biennale through pointing out to
the confounded press that, really, Venice was
‘just like Peckham.’
Quite what she meant by this is clarified not
only by the internationalisation of the region’s
art scene, but also – and inherent to this – its
continual self-transformation, its combination of the old and the new through pushing
the boundaries between art and local life.
Peckham is, however, no island, and the art
scene has sprawled and diversified to an extent
that now mirrors the incredible ethnic and
social diversity of the region (the population
of Lambeth speaks an impressive 143
languages, whilst the ethnic diversity of
Adjani okpu-egbe
ART
Lewisham in a recent survey was found to
be over five times the national average).
The South London Art Map has emerged as
a partnership network, run by Julia Alvarez,
which attempts to draw together this plethora of new artist-run and commercial spaces
with larger institutions like the Tate Modern
and South London Gallery.
The ever-shifting structures which constitute
this map are increasingly co-opting and trans-
it publicly for the first time the institution’s
rich archives, to ‘ensure that SLG’s history is
properly documented and freely available to
everyone’ (Margot Heller, Director). Furthermore, the institution has commissioned artist
Gabriel Orozco to design a new garden which
will open the back of the SLG out to the communities and schools behind it. As such, this
emblematic institution’s expansion in
response to increasing audiences retains its
ties to the local, as per the inscription hidden
was the availability of large-scale, cheap studio
spaces, often colonising abandoned buildings
and industrial spaces. Amanda Dennis of artist-managed cooperative exhibition space
Auto Italia notes that ‘the spaces available can
accommodate shows and works that would
never fit into typical West End or East End
galleries.’ Spaces such as the Bussey building
warehouse complex are now iconic emblems
of the 00s South London art scene, whilst the
recently reopened Newport Street Gallery
The art scene moves so quickly and the most exciting
events don’t tend to get announced very far in advance…
you have to just keep your ear to the ground!’
forming local, public landmarks. The South
London Gallery’s recent acquisition, from an
anonymous donor, of the nearby grade two
listed fire station (the oldest in the city) will
see the transformation of this unique building
to accommodate the increased demand for
new programs, as well as to house and exhib-
in its original marquetry floor which states
‘the source of Art is in the life of a people.’
Whilst the scale of the scene as a whole has
expanded, the initial draw for artists moving
to the region, alongside the vibrant presence
of Goldsmiths and Camberwell art colleges,
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forms a monument to the region’s history,
seeing Damien Hirst’s personal collection
return to the region in a converted warehousestudio space.
As the buzz around the art scene amplifies,
and such spaces become less widely available,
Other galleries which straddle the commercial/non-profit divide, such as Bosse & Baum,
highlight the potential for performance and
live art to tap into the less tangible infrastructure of the region. Co-director Alexander
Walder notes, ‘we are focusing heavily on performance and live art in the coming year.
We like to have live events, happenings,
performance and discussions in the space.
It keeps the audience active and has created a
community around our initiatives at the gallery – from artists to collectors and those who
have not been exposed to much contemporary
art before. It is also a wonderful antidote
to life online.’ Whilst the region is also home
to many art collectives with a powerful online
presence, such as curators and artists collective
LuckyPDF which runs an online art TV channel, and Attila Fattori Franchini of the online
art gallery ‘Opening Times,’ the path-breaking
DIY ethos of local collectives has also drawn
international links beyond the digital.
The collective formed at Lyndhurst Way and
championed by Hannah Barry’s gallery put
together an international group show
PECKHAMNEWYORKPARIS in 2013,
travelling between 88 Friary Road in Peckham,
Shoot the Lobster gallery in New York and
Galerie 104 Kléber in Paris. This exciting
‘gallery hosting’ model has been taken up on
a larger scale by the current ‘Condo Complex’
project, a crossover between an art fair and
multi-site exhibition. Curator Vanessa Carlos,
inspired by the ‘generosity and sense of
collaboration’ of the LISTE Art Fair in Basel
has co-ordinated 24 galleries over various
London regions, which are co-hosting work
from galleries in Munich, Sao Paolo, Glasgow,
New York, Berlin, Zurich, Geneva, Shanghai,
Amsterdam and Rome. South London galleries Arcadia Missa and The Sunday Painter
find themselves paired with Deborah Schamoni (Munich), Jacuqeline Martins (Sao
Paolo), Koppe Astner (Glasgow), and numerous other London-based galleries North of
the Thames. The curator’s stated aim to find
a way for galleries ‘to exhibit internationally
[in a way] that is conducive to supporting experimentation by emerging artists’ appears
inspired by the model of artistic cooperation
and collaboration which is so central to the
South London art Scene. [A condominium of
pandemonium?].
Indeed, despite the region’s increasing
appearance on the international art scene,
it remains rooted in a sense of community,
though one with a notably outward orientation. Felix Petty of art collective Off Modern
“Rescued1” by Adjani okpu-egbe, 2015
non-profit institutions increasingly step up
to assist in the provision of exhibitory and
working spaces for artists. Arcadia Missa’s
director Rosza Farkas speaks of setting up a
‘space that could function as a place of assembly,’ blurring the line between artistic exhibition and production in a way continuous with
the lineage of the 90s and 00s. The gallery space
periodically retransforms itself around the
artwork on show, whilst also producing its
own artwork under the collective name
Arcadia_Missa, alongside a number of
publications and the ejournal How To Sleep
Faster. The emphasis here is on symbiosis,
exchange and collaboration. Farkas’ aims for
the future reinstate this: ‘I think the exhibition
programme will be slowed down and we’ll
incorporate residencies more, because the
best part of what we’ve done comes from working closely with artists.’
sees the South London scene as unique in
casting the limelight upon ‘young artists who
wouldn’t get a chance to exhibit normally.
Instead of being top-down, big exhibitions,
it’s a real grass roots thing…that’s why it’s blossomed so much.’ As well as championing local
up and coming artists, a number of institutions
in the region play an important role as a
platform for foreign artists new to London.
In both cases, the roles of creator and facilitator blend, through long-term residencies
and studio programs.
Key examples include Gasworks, which reopened last year after a £2.1 million redevelopment with South African artist Kemang
Wa Lehulere’s first UK-based exhibition, and
which runs an international residency program enabling foreign artists to develop new
17
work in London, to Studio Voltaire whose
well-established residency and studio program
in a former Methodist church in Clapham
recently expanded to include a new program
hosting a Berlin-based artist over a 10 month
working period, in association with the Berlin
Senate’s Cultural Affairs department, and the
Whitechapel Gallery.
Both these spaces also emphasise the cultivation of artistic networks revolving around the
South London scene, with a proportion of
Gasworks’ redevelopment costs raised by a
Christie’s auction of works donated by
alumni residents Chris Ofili, Lynette
Yiadom-Boakya, Seb Patane and Goshka
Macuga in 2013, and with the establishment
of Voltaire’s The Syllabus program (in concert
with Wysing Arts Centre, Eastside Projects,
New Contemporaries, S1 Artspace and Spike
Island) , which focuses on how artists form
and use collaborative networks through
a series of seminars and workshops.
Whilst such collaborative restructuring is
crucial to the continuation of the artistic
‘movement’ in the region, the creative energy
latent here has repeatedly re-instantiated itself
in unexpected fashions. Change remains fastpaced, despite the importance placed upon
local ties and history, and as such the local
scene retains numerous layers into which the
keenest members of local audiences can delve.
As local artist Louis-Jack Horton-Stephens,
a Ruskin graduate born and bred in the region
notes, ‘the art scene moves so quickly and the
most exciting events don’t tend to get
announced very far in advance…you have to
just keep your ear to the ground!’
B Y S H W E TA L PAT E L
FAS H I O N
Fashion’s Best K
ept Secret
SOUTH LONDON
South London has always been somewhat overlooked when it comes to playing host to a thriving fashion community.
It has tough competition, from the quirk of East London to high fashion in the West. However, this is a misconception because
there is an authenticity and creativity buzzing South of the river, which neither East nor West can compete with.
South London is home to a unique pulse that many leading creatives
tap into, from thriving and established fashion labels to innovative
up-coming designers on the cusp of success.
Nine Elms, you’ll find Britain’s best-loved milliner, Philip Treacy.
Another long-time Battersea resident, Treacy is the king of hats and
his blackbook of celebrity clients includes; Kate Moss, Adele and
Lady Gaga. Treacy is yet another impressive arm of the fashion
alumni based in South London.
Battersea’s most famous fashion resident is without a doubt, Dame
Vivienne Westwood. She was entrusted the area with her worldrenown business and avant-garde troupe of employees for years.
Not only is the Westwood HQ based here, but it is also home to the
designer’s personal studio, as well as the vast Westwood archive and
design rooms where the labels couture collections are crafted.
Battersea alone boasts an outstanding fashion pedigree but just a
few miles away, the late David Bowie, iconic musician and fashion
legend was born and bred.
The South-East of London also has its own world-renowned creative forces. Artist and Elephant & Castle resident Julie Verhoeven
is famed for fashion collaborations with powerhouses such as Louis
Vuitton, Versace and Mulberry. Emerging designers Caitlin Price
and This is The Uniform are both part of the pioneering Fashion
East initiative, they have chosen South-East to base their business.
South London is not just a place for Westwood to work. She and
her husband and creative partner, Andreas Kronthaler are intrinsically part of the community and can be seen cycling to the studio
everyday from their home in nearby Clapham.
A number of high-profile designers have flocked to Battersea in
recent years; the area is now affectionately referred to as the
‘Battersea Creative District’. Victoria Beckham, an icon of modern
times chose the area as a base from the very early days of
her celebrated fashion label. Her empire is now part of an evergrowing creative hub that is dominating the area just south of
Battersea Bridge.
South London celebrates and embraces both the world-class
established and emerging new talents in the creative industries that
have set roots in South London.
Londoners are always seeking the new, the cool and the undiscovered.
All eyes are now on South London, fashions best kept secret. Trends
may filter through East and West but South London has style. Take a stroll in an easterly direction towards the Battersea Power
Station, and just as you start edging towards the regeneration of
BY REBECCA BOYCE
18
David Bowie Mural in Brixton painted by Jimmy C
Philip Treacy SS16 hat photographed by Kurtiss Lloyd
Vivenne Westwood % Climate Revolution
19
20
21
I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y A C H R A F A M I R I
Around Embassy Gardens
Described as the Hidden Son of The Addams Family, we partnered with artist and illustrator
Achraf Amiri to bring to life an exclusive vision for the fashion map of South London.
Achraf has fast become a fashion industry favourite with his work regularly featured in
Vogue and ELLE. His work has also been nominated for Cannes Lions Awards and
endorsed by global icons including Madonna.
Madonna and Puff Daddy, Versace Party. Paris, 1999
Richard Young
22
Joan Collins. London, 1993
In December 2015,
Young celebrated
the launch of his
highly anticipated
book Nightclubbing
at Embassy Gardens.
Claudia Schiffer, Versace Fashion Show Party. Paris, 1994
INTERVIEW
Richard Young has been celebrated as one of the most significant social documentary photographers of our time. His ability to
capture and present a candid view into the hedonistic and elusive world of celebrity is unrivalled. We caught up with Young,
to find out more about the man behind the lens.
Young is still at the forefront of celebrity photography. More recently, he’s been found capturing supermodel Jourdan Dunn on
the elusive front row at the Burberry AW 2016 show, IT Girls Daisy Lowe and Poppy Delevingne at The British Fashion Award
and Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy, their arms wrapped around each others waists at the premiere of their Oscar nominated
film The Revenant.
In December 2015, Young celebrated the launch of his highly anticipated book Nightclubbing at Embassy Gardens.
The book is his first publication in over a decade and celebrates his 40th year in show business.
Q: Part of your success is given by a unique relationship you have I reply that I’m starving! I hadn’t had anything to eat since the previous
developed with famous celebrities. How have you achieved it?
afternoon. So he invites me to join him at the Dorchester to have a big fryup. As we eat, Burton’s publicist walks in, looks at me, and says: “What
R: Part hard work, part a work ethic that stems from my father’s advice: the hell are you doing here?!” To which I reply “oh, I’m just a photographer,
Be polite. If you are nice to people, say please and thank you, they will Mr. Burton’s invited me back for breakfast”.
be nice to you. People respond positively when they are made to feel at
ease and safe.
Q: What do you enjoy most in your work?
Q: During the first decades of your career, you were dubbed the one and R: One thing I have always enjoyed doing is weddings, and bar mitzvahs.
only ‘paparazzo’. Do you still consider yourself one?
They are real lifetime events in the lives of people who happened to be
celebrities. The one I probably enjoyed the most was Sting and Trudie’s
R: There was a romance at the time, and being called paparazzo did beautiful wedding. They were both dressed by Versace and had all of
not have the same connotation it has now. Paparazzi photographers their showbiz friends.
have changed so much with time. They have become aggressive,
indiscreet. People stopped calling me that after Diana (Spencer) died in Q: You have had the privilege to meet some inspiring people, from celebaugust 1997. Now the word just makes me cringe. I am not a paparazzi rities, to politicians and royals.
photographer.
R: Yes, I’ve had breakfast with the Dalai Lama. I also had lunch with NelQ: You were quite an expert in the art of gatecrashing exclusive parties son Mandela. Funny story; Nelson Mandela was in his suite at the Hotel
to take your photographs, something that nowadays has become very de Paris and during the afternoon, first Naomi Campbell and Bono walk
difficult with increased security.
in, then Sylvester Stallone comes in. Him and Mandela start sparring with
each other, you know, pretending. I took a few photographs, until Mandela
R: It is not really an art. It was not easy, but with the right attitude it was really whacked him one!
not very difficult, actually. It’s simple, really: dress for the part and if there
is a door, you go through it. Be cool and calm and just walk through. Q: Which has been the most memorable night?
Nobody will question you.
R: Ah, certainly New Year’s Eve in 1978 at Maunkberry’s. First, Freddie
Q: You must have attended some truly incredible parties throughout the Mercury and some friends arrived. Then Rod Steward arrived, followed by
years. Any highlights?
Keith Richards, Ronnie and Jo Wood. Britt Ekland was there too. Things
got very animated; I haven’t had a New Year’s Eve like it since.
R: There was this party Cartier invited me to cover for the launch of a
new product. They flew me and some others to Paris in a private jet and Q: Amongst other celebrities, you are also known for having had a good
picked us up in vintage Rolls Royce cars. They drove us into Paris for relationship with Lady Diana Spencer and knew her well. What do you
the launch party with Serge Gainsbourg, Jane Birkin, and Omar Sharif. remember most vividly?
Like in a dream I was flown back home in the private jet and was back
in bed by 5am.
R: I can’t say. But I do recall that I was one of the only photographers
allowed at her birthday party in 1997. She looked so serene, feeling good
Q: Is there anything truly unexpected that ever happened in with herself. That was the last time I photographed her.
your career?
R: Apart from taking by chance the last photographs of Keith Moon? Well,
in one particular occasion, Richard Burton rolled out of Elizabeth Taylor’s
house at round 5am. He was a bit disheveled and a little bit drunk. He
sees me outside and asks me if I’m hungry. After the moment of surprise,
www.richardyounggallery.co.uk www.nightclubbingbook.com Instagram - @RichardYoung110
23
EVENT
THE
ALKEMISTRY
LAUNCH
AT
THE
EG LE
CLUB
of Alchemy’, drawing inspiration from the
three essential elements in Alchemy, Fire,
Air and Earth.
Gemstones have played a crucial role in
the myths and legends of human
cultures throughout history. Some tell a
story whilst others are believed to have
special powers, but all share a common
theme of undeniable beauty.
The event embodied this uplifting and
enchanting theme, both aesthetically and
functionally. Spectacular jewellery was
displayed in tumbling ivy, fiery red flames
and atmospheric dry ice. The cocktail
menu read like an alchemist-shopping list;
Salt of the Earth, Fire fly potion and Angel
Water. These unique elixirs washed down
delectable canapés of chilli chocolate and
air filled meringues by baker extraordinaire
Lily Vanilli.
Fascinated by the mystical powers that
gemstones hold, former Head Jewellery
Buyer for Harrods, Kirstie Gibbs, founded
The Alkemistry, an online boutique that
draws on astrology and numerology
to match make women with the finest
luxury jewellery.
The Alkemistry offers highly personalised
jewellery selections, which are chosen
from the exclusive brand list, including;
Kismet by Milka, Meira T and Redline.
The selections are determined by the
wearer’s date of birth, current life stage
or aspirations for the future.
The theatre of The Alkemistry was a
common theme throughout the evening.
From a modern day Shaman who offered
transformative readings, to the quotes
displayed on each table, offering snippets
of wisdom from ancient scholars.
A personal favourite was by Rumi, a 13thcentury Persian poet, ‘Through love all
that is bitter will be sweet, through love
all that is copper will be gold’.
In January 2016, The Alkemistry
announced its collaboration with iconic
department store, Harvey Nichols.
To honour this partnership, The Alkemistry
planned an inspiring event to bring the
concept to life and showcase a handselected curation of their precious jewels.
The crowd was an eclectic mix of
influencers, jewellery press, fashion
bloggers, as well as publishers, who were
all sat alongside supportive friends and
family. The night was engaging, magical
and meaningful, which truly distilled the
essence of The Alkemistry.
The theme of the evening was the
‘Transformation through the Ancient Art
24
The Alkemistry launch with Harvey Nichols / Date: Friday 15th January at The EG:LE Club / Canapés: by Lily Vanilli – SALT: Mini Salt Caramel Chocolate Cakes
w/ salted bitter chocolate crumble – FIRE: Chilli chocolate truffles – AIR: Super light matcha meringue / The drinks: by Salt & Dry – SALT: Cucumber Margarita –
FIRE: Shoo fly Punch – WATER: Green Apple & Mint water / Transformative Readings: by Tamara Wolf Sister /
Photography: by James D Kelly / Music: by Barry O’Brien
25
FAS H I O N
The exhibition will be on show from January 21st to April 1st 2016 and features 3000 pieces
styled by Lismore exclusively for SCAD.
26
Diamond in the Dirt
DANIEL LISMORE
In a world where everybody wants to fit in by following the latest trends, it is without a doubt
that British artist, Daniel Lismore, stands out like a diamond in the dirt.
Daniel is a whirlwind of colour even on his dullest day. He has earned
a cult status in the fashion and art worlds for his eccentric style and
has featured in Vogue and i-D magazine. He has become a regular
face in London’s hedonistic nightlife scene, existing as a living
breathing artwork.
The process to curating the exhibition was a very personal one.
Daniel suddenly found himself reflecting back on his short but
extraordinary life. He was proud that his life passion was being used
to educate others. This was his way of contributing to society,
he exclaimed: “Without education, we are nothing.”
Daniel is a proud activist and has worked with Vivienne Westwood
on her iconic ‘Climate Revolution’ campaign, which is an uprising
that aims to protect our world for a better future for all.
The roaring mark Daniel has imprinted on the fashion industry will
never be forgotten. Daniel has merged the concepts of fashion and
art harmoniously to create endless things of beauty.
His latest collaboration is with H&M on their ‘Close the Loop’
campaign, which aims to encourage shoppers to recycle their clothes.
Since moving to the capital from the Midlands, Daniel has lived
in every corner of London. Battersea stole his heart and he set up
home there. He gushed: “I love walking home everyday, looking
over at the Thames. In summer it is especially beautiful, the air is
scented with flowers—it is just gorgeous.”
Rafael Gomes, director of fashion exhibitions at the Savannah
College of Art and Design in Atlanta, recently approached Daniel
to feature a presentation of his iconic wardrobe. It is an incredible
honour for Daniel, who was blown away by how progressive SCAD
were and felt that their desire to exhibit his collection reflected on
how bold they truly are.
He added: “I love London, it’s the cultural capital of the world.
Everyone who is anything is here. As an artist I embraced that.
I love meeting people and being inspired by different cultures from
around the world. London is the perfect place to be and there’s
nowhere better in the city than Battersea.”
27
From performance artists and musicians to poets and young authors, the variety of expressive mediums tapped into by young millennials is now more expansive than ever.
No longer are we restricted by our geographical location – visionary work can be created on a tiny budget, uploaded in mere minutes and subsequently given the opportunity to
proliferate worldwide. The following four artists are acutely aware of this; they are emblematic of a new generation, one which recognises and harnesses its true transatlantic potential.
Millie Brown
You might remember her for vomiting neon paint over
a dreadlocked Lady Gaga at SXSW back in 2014, but Millie Brown
is an established artist in her own right. Her debut solo exhibition,
“Rainbow Bodies” was shown in Los Angeles last year, and she once
again appeared at the prestigious Art Basel Miami. Brown’s work is
drenched in colour, created from almond milk and food colouring.
Her art also incorporates a distinctly human spirit, which stems
from her determination to test the physical limits of her body.
This element of endurance was demonstrated recently
in a performance art piece entitled “Wilting Point”, which explored
the decay of beauty and the transience of life. The five-day work,
staged as part of the LA Art Fair, saw Brown laid amongst a garden
of flowers which, over the duration, shriveled mournfully around
the motionless artist.
All too often, tales of drug addiction are glamourised by a mainstream
media which doesn’t fully understand their implications. The same
cannot be said of “The Gilded Razor”, an uncensored memoir
by Los Angeles author Sam Lansky, which retrospectively unravels
his own battles with addiction. Not only are symptoms and behaviour
explained in the throes of his addiction, but the various struggles
which came before drug use are explored honestly and
comprehensively.
Central yet familiar themes of parents divorcing, new relationships
and relentless academic pressure recur throughout this literary
reinterpretation of Lansky’s own childhood. A relocation to the city
is intended as an escape, but the dangerous nature of urban life and
its various temptations result in a memoir which, although deeply
personal, has the potential to resonate with adolescents worldwide.
Sam Lansky
28
Alo Lee
Alo Lee is the rising star whose sultry soundscapes have already
drawn comparison to the likes of Aaliyah and Frank Ocean. Born in
Wyoming but residing in London, Lee specialises in a breed of dark
RnB which has fast become her signature. The title track of her latest
three-track release, “Videos”, deals lyrically with the unattainable
women portrayed throughout the porn industry, and explores the
notion that they detract from the flesh and blood reality of romance.
“Use Me” and “Inside”, the two tracks which round off the release,
explore similar themes of dedicating too much time to a reluctant
lover. Lee admits that lyrics are her preferred form of creative
expression, but also alludes to the amount of time she spends surfing
Soundcloud to source emerging producers. She may not be overtly
preoccupied with the mainstream, but her distinctive musical output
is likely to land her there.
BY JAKE HALL
The sheer range of options available to young millennials are
resulting in an increasing number of creative polymaths, reluctant
to restrict their creative output. Kojey Radical is emblematic of
this new generation, working as a musician, poet and a visual artist,
as well as holding the position of Art Director at menswear brand
Chelsea Bravo and Creative Director of the PUSHCRAYONS
collective.
Regardless of its chosen medium, social and political messages are
always imbued within his work. “Open Hand” is exemplary – its
lyrics describe protagonist steadily growing in confidence, whereas
the accompanying visuals, created by the PUSHCRAYONS collective,
are drenched in symbolism. Radical begins the clip ravaged by slavery
and, as the music swells, begins to fight, aggressively escaping the
constraints of his original repression. It is this social narrative which
cements Radical’s place as an important voice, one which is firmly
rooted in the 21st century.
Kojey Radical
29
ARCHITECTURE
NYC
LOND ON S HIGH LINE
New York City is infamously lacking wide-open green spaces. Its High Line project exemplifies effective adaptive urban re-use in a city
that is dominated by skyscrapers. By turning an elevated freight train track that was abandoned in the 1980s into a luscious public park,
the project has created a whole new experience for New Yorkers. All this is thanks to world-famous landscape architect James Corner,
who worked tirelessly to preserve the area and transform it from a desolated train track to a thriving urban environment. Corner admitted
that his main source of inspiration throughout the process of regenerating the High Line was the site itself.
L DN
30
With the American Embassy moving to Nine Elms, ties between the U.K and the U.S have never been stronger.
Another nod to the States in this part of London is the Linear Park; a 1-km long green space that runs from Vauxhall to Battersea.
Its inspiration was the High Line Park in New York City. Here, its designer James Corner – the man behind high-profile green spaces,
on both sides of the Atlantic including London’s South Park at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Santa Monica’s Tongva Park –
talks about integrating green and urban environments.
CITIES ARE MORE THAN JUST BUILDINGS
S TA RT LO O K I N G AT T H E S PA C E S
IN-BETWEEN, THE PUBLIC REALM WHERE
M O S T U R B A N L I F E TA K E S P L A C E , A N D
WHERE THE DEFINING CHARACTER
O F A N Y G R E AT C I T Y R E S I D E S .
Corner confessed that High Line’s success is down to its authentic
New York feel.
“The site and context with the original aura of post-industrial
melancholia were dormant yet bursting with potential. The whole
neighbourhood was a kind sub-cultural underground, with a charged
other-worldliness colored by old meatpacking and warehouse facilities, gay night-clubs, small artist studios, dereliction and a sense
of abandonment.”
He said: “The High Line is like a slice through real New York, both
old and new. But more than views and context, the High Line has
become a people-watching promenade. It has become as much
about exhibitionism as it is voyeuristic. It is fun to stroll, to see,
to meet and to just participate in the life of the city, mixing with
people of all backgrounds from all around the world.”
He added: “The High Line was just this old hulking structure, dark
and forlorn. And yet on top was this amazing force of nature – green
grasses, flowers, and vines had taken root to create a completely
unexpected garden running for over a mile-and-a-half through
the city. Also, the views and vistas were just spectacular, you had the
sense of being a voyeur, able to see and peek without yourself being
seen, detached from the street. “
Corner also gave his views on London, citing it as one of the most
architecturally rich ands vibrant cities in the world.
He said: “There are some of the world’s greatest and most original
buildings, both old and new there. Regent Street is still one of the
world’s best streets, urbanistically figuring and bringing life to a
whole sector of the city. The South Bank is beautifully eclectic, and
the Tate really anchors and brings vitality that whole area.“
High Line has been hailed by the media and New Yorkers as having
some of the most captivating views of the city. All of New York’s
main attractions can be clearly viewed, from the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty.
He concluded: “What would London be without the great parks and
gardens – such generosity, beauty and seasonal texture. Cities are
more than just buildings – start looking at the spaces in-between,
the public realm where most urban life takes place, and where the
defining character of any great city resides.”
B Y J A M E S C O R N E R , A R C H I T E C T, F I E L D O P E R AT I O N S N Y C
31
ART
From Curation
to Creation
Minimalist sculptor and conceptual artist, Robert Morris once posed the question:
“If there is such a thing as public art, what then is private art?” This remains a fundamental
topic as art in the public realm adopts an ever more significant role in society.
32
Public art remains a communal activity; its reach can be powerful for
communities. When a work is available to the public, it provokes a sense
of unity and takes on a spirit of its own. The community enlivens a work;
they are inspired, motivated and intrigued.
Embassy Gardens is home to three new public sculptures, from three of
Britain’s most prolific contemporary artists. Internationally celebrated curator
and art historian Sir Norman Rosenthal curated the sculptures, his vision
was to feature works that support emerging contemporary art.
Reflecting on his role, Sir Norman Rosenthal says, “It is an honour for me
to commission public sculptures that will enrich the ambitious Embassy
Gardens development in Nine Elms. Each is a highly imaginative, witty and
thought-provoking work by three outstanding young British sculptors.
Together they represent perfectly the rich diversity of London’s cultural
art scene.”
The extraordinary works of art are the creations of three groundbreaking
artists; Sarah Lucas, Mohammed Qasim Ashfaq and Simon Fujiwara.
Embassy Gardens is home to three new
public sculptures, from three of Britain’s
most prolific contemporary artists.
Turner Prize winner Sarah Lucas’ Florian depicts a giant marrow cast in
highly-polished bronze. It is an undeniably provocative piece that conveys
the humour and spontaneity of her hometown. The human anatomy has
always fascinated Lucas, the form of the phallus has particularly become a
recurring visual motif in her work. She has become synonymous with
substituting everyday objects for human body parts, often adding a suggestion
of genitalia. Florian is instantly captivating; it confronts the viewer as an
object that is familiar and disorientating in equal measure.
Lucas emerged in the late 1980s as part of the infamous Young British
Artists and included the likes of Damien Hirst, Gary Hume and enfant terrible
Tracey Emin. At the heart of Lucas’ work are bawdy euphemisms, repressed
truths, erotic delights and sculptural possibilities of the sexual body. She
has garnered critical acclaim for her bold use of humour, visual puns and
metaphors of sex, death, quintessential Englishness and gender in her work.
Mohammed Qasim Ashfaq’s ROD is a 5-metere high, stainless steel sculpture
that resembles a lightening bolt striking the ground. He is famed for his
obsessive works that are based on the simplicity of shape, line and form.
The sculpture is a star shaped rod that extends from a triangular concrete
plinth base.
Last but certainly not least, rising British-Japanese artist Simon Fujiwara’s
Modern Marriage is a distinctively reflective piece. It is Romanesque in its
style and comprises a large foot with a ring embedded in the sole. The
sculpture reflects the emotive and often autobiographical nature of his work.
As poet and philosopher, Friedrich Schiller once said, ‘Art is the right hand
of Nature. The latter has only given us being, the former has made us men’.
33
LIFESTYLE
34
One-kilometre in length with a total perimeter of 2km, the Linear Park will connect Vauxhall
and Battersea. Its designer is famed landscape architect Huw Morgan.
Morgan said: “This is such an integral part of the regeneration of the
whole area. Our intention was to create a green space which will
become an identifiable landmark and somewhere which glues together the various architectural forms found around each of the Nine Elms
developments.”
The theory of Biophillia has been thoroughly explored in the local
area. in 2012, London-based charity Thrive, which uses gardening to
support and empower people with disabilities, launched Battersea
Park’s Old English Garden in association with Jo Malone and Chelsea
Flower Show gold medal winning landscape architect Sarah Price.
It has been praised by the Telegraph, as ‘a pleasure to be in’.
Its expansive acreage enables it to boast a number of different areas,
from hard surface recreational and play areas at Market West Gate,
Haines Cross and Parkside Playpark, to green open spaces at Park
Basin and a water feature at Mill Pond Green West.
Morgan values virtues extending beyond aesthetics and applied this
notion to Linear Park.
Linear Park is a celebration of nature
and an oasis in the heart of the city
Morgan continued: “Everything’s been thought of here and we’ve
ensured that all uses can be accommodated. Even pop up markets and
festivals which will be held on the hard surface area at Mill Pond Green
East in the near future.”
He continued: “The public realm space at Linear Park acts as a corridor for local wildlife and a conduit for rain water, all of which funnels
back into the park. It’s as green as possible in every sense of the word.”
Linear Park raises the bar for the future of integrated green spaces
in extensive regeneration projects. It is a celebration of nature and
an oasis in the heart of the city.
Embassy Gardens lies at the Western end of the Linear Park and will
benefit from an immense portion of the space. Resting areas, green
spaces and squares are already home to art sculptures that are in place
for residents.
The prominence of the Linear Park derives from Morgan’s studies
into ‘Biophillia’, a hypothesis that considers the innate pull human
beings have to nature.
35
ART
THE
BEAUTY
IN
NATURE
British artist Rebecca Louise Law creates a new understanding of beauty through her installation work with flowers,
celebrating nature in all its glory each time she ‘paints’. Exhibited worldwide in museums, private collectors’ homes, public
spaces, galleries and even at the Chelsea Flower Show, Law’s small and large scale floral installations have a life beyond their
expectancy, with the fresh flowers gracefully drying to evolve into sculptures that can last a lifetime.
36
also takes place), Law creates works for private clients, collectors and
museums worldwide and is only known by word of mouth. Site-specific, each commission is realised through an exchange of ideas,
starting with a conversation of the intended space (location, history,
relationship to, and structure of a building) to create extraordinary
one-off installations. Not limited with materials, Law has worked
with butterflies, shells, wood and even beetles for a very special
commission for a client in South Africa. One client’s obsession with
peonies led to an installation covering an entire wall in the clients
private house, with Law and her team visiting the installation to
refresh the work every year (by applying a fresh layer of flowers
to the existing drying ones).
Flowers are just like paper
Gucci, Mulberry and Hermes are among the fine list of Law’s clients,
seeing the artist create original works and experiences for the luxury
houses. Law’s immersive artworks change the way we experience
spaces through each of our senses, and it is this originality that her
various clients long for. Last year during Art Basel, the Vitra Campus
commissioned a site-specific installation comprising of 4,000 blooms
strung (each pierced by hand and then tied with copper wire) from
the ceiling, whilst a stunning suspended curtain at the La Monnaie
Opera House in Brussels may have been one of the most memorable
(5,000 blue and green hydrangeas were suspended above the stage).
In London, The Garden Museum commissioned the artwork Roses,
2013 comprised of 3,000 roses (donated from the New Covent Garden
Market, the biggest flower market in London), for the nave of their
historic building - a fitting representation of contemporary ideas
working with a time-less medium - and at Sotheby’s New Bond Street
flowers were closely hung with the selfexplanatory (and descriptive)
title of Old Masters. A peony and garland chandelier work for a
Jo Malone fragrance launch in London literally took guests’ breath
away, and found a second home exhibited at the world’s most
celebrated and highly-regarded flower fair, the Chelsea Flower Show.
Studying Fine Art at Newcastle University and graduating in 2004,
Law’s practise organically progressed into working with natural
materials through her underlying passion for flora, and together with
its undeniable beauty, she found endless inspiration in natures
original paint palette.
Exhibited outside, the Peony, 2013 artwork found itself interacting
with the environment and its unpredictable setting, with installation
Meadow, 2015 following suit at the renowned show.
Brought up with flowers, Law’s father is the head gardener of a
National Trust property and enabled Law’s familiarity with
various types of flora from an early age. Her mothers work as a
special-needs teacher seemed to influence Law’s practise exploring
the beautiful relationship between nature and human-beings, and
the numerous artists within the family ensured creativity
was encouraged.
Expanding traditional uses for flora, Law insists her works have an
unlimited lifespan, even getting better with age. “Flowers are just like
paper” she explains, simplifying to explain their longevity, “if you
treat it in the right way, it can last forever”. Practising what she preaches, Law has flowers sent back to her studio once an exhibition comes
down, repurposing them for new artworks.
Originally working with paint, Law became frustrated with the
restrictions of working to the confinements of typical canvas sizings,
and looked further to other possibilities. Experimenting with fabric,
sweets and all different kinds of mediums so that she could paint in
the air, Law explains “I was really searching for colour that I could
sculpt with in 3D, and it was only once I had used the flowers that
I then saw the beauty: and their beauty, as an individual flower”.
Flowers retain their natural oils and through the way Law hangs them,
they are peacefully preserved.
Season by season Law excels in concept and execution with her work
in all its glory, continuing to ensure people worldwide stop and smell
the roses, quite literally, and enjoy the wonders of nature.
From her studio in Columbia Road in London (open as a gallery on
Sundays, when the world renowned Columbia Road Flower Market
BY M O N I Q U E K AW E C K I
37
FOOD
Lily Jones has rapidly become the go-to
girl for all things sweet. She is adventurous
whilst maintaining classic ideals of
baking. She has an extraordinary
dedication to her craft and is known for
never making the same cake twice.
In fact, the EG:LE Club called upon Lily
to create some themed canapés for its
recent Alkemistry event and they were
exceptional.
Lily honed her craft as a passionate home
baker for many years before she began
selling her cakes in 2008 in a bid to make
some extra cash. Word spread like wild
fire and a media frenzy ensued with Lily’s
cakes featuring in Vogue, Evening
Standard and The Times. Within a year
Lily had a black book filled with highprofile clients, including Elton John,
Alexander McQueen and Harrods.
Sweet on
South London
The whimsical creations dreamt up by Lily Jones, owner of famed artisanal bakery
Lily Vanilli have seduced palates across London and beyond. A firm favourite of the fashion
elite, her bespoke cakes and delectable pastries are a work of art, marrying experimental
flavours with innovative designs.
BY REBECCA BOYCE
The quaint Lily Vanilli bakery is nestled
away in a cobbled courtyard behind
Columbia Road in the East End, but South
London was where Lily first put down
roots. She moved from Saudi Arabia to
London at just 14-years-old and attended
school in Croydon.
Lily has first-hand experience with the
evolution of South London. She says,
“It’s changing very rapidly. One positive
is the food that’s available and the people
who are making a living from doing what
they are passionate about at a grassroots
level. There was never that feeling when
I was growing up, so I count it as a really
positive change.”
Edible temptations for both business and
pleasure have kept South London close
to Lily’s heart. When she is not meeting
friends, eating, drinking or partying south
of the river, she is shopping for baking
supplies. On her shopping list is coffee
from Coleman Coffee Roasters and local
honey courtesy of Barnes & Webb, plus
the many delights available at Nine Elms’
new Waitrose.
It is the array of unique and indispensible
local restaurants and food shops that are
at the heart of South London culture.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to
world famous food markets, Lily urges
everyone to go and explore south of the
river to discover all that the local area has
to offer.
38
The designer has a number of high-profile clients, including; supermodel Miranda Kerr, the Duchess of
Cambridge and her sister Pippa Middleton. Tabitha reveals all about her much loved brand, her advice
for emerging fashion designers and her plans for the future.
When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer and
how did you get into the industry?
What is your favorite part about being a fashion designer?
When something works and you see it come together it is such a buzz.
The best thing of all is when you see someone in the public eye wearing
it to an event or out and about and you know it looks good, and you
know they feel good – that makes all the hard work seem worth it.
What are your plans for the future? I got into the industry with a lot of hard work and banging doors
down. When people said no I just kept trying until they said yes,
people give in eventually.
How would you describe your brand?
Tabitha Webb is a brand that is all about having fun. I don’t take life
too seriously and I hope that comes across in what we do. I always
like for there to be a surprise. Our new line has little hidden messages
in each item… some naughty, some nice. We are massively expanding our line at the moment and have started
doing a lot of work out of LA, which is really exciting. At the end of
February we are launching cashmere, denim, tees, a more casual
and slightly cooler edge to the line. I cannot wait to launch it as
I think it will also have a much broader appeal. We will be launching
with a massive barn dance!
What tips would you give to a budding fashion designer?
Make sure you understand the business as well as the creative.
Designing is one thing, but being able to turn that into a business
is a lot harder. Brands go under daily and it is not because the product
is not good enough, it is because commericalising that is bloody hard. By Alex Lord
Looking to t he Future
W I T H TA B I T H A W E B B
Tabitha Webb is a luxury British fashion brand founded by designer, entrepreneur and South London
resident Tabitha Somerset Webb. The brand offers timeless, feminine designs created with signature
fabrics and prints, enabling accessible quintessentially English elegance.
39
FOOD
40
WAITROSE
A busy schedule can often make weeknight dinners an afterthought – speed
takes priority over flavour, and it becomes
all too easy to fall into a culinary rut.
Waitrose at Embassy Gardens has
recognised and also sought to
remedy this problem, collaborating with
established yet eccentric chef Heston
Blumenthal for its “Heston from
Waitrose” products. Designed alongside
the new products are over 140 bespoke
recipes, the fruits of a six-year collaboration which are now available to try on the
‘Heston’ section of the Waitrose website.
The result is a series of classic dishes
reinterpreted in a new, modern way.
Amongst these favorites are the go-to
smoky beef burger, which the chef teams
with a home made avocado sauce for a
unique update, whereas his spin on the
hot dog comes complete with piccalilli
mayonnaise and sharp sauerkraut.
Of course, no menu is complete without
cocktails – and Blumenthal’s inventive
streak stretches further than the obligatory Mojito. If you like your alcohol fruity
there’s the Earl Grey Sour which mixes
grapefruit juice with Earl Grey infused gin;
if you like your cocktails to satisfy your
caffeine fix there’s a luxurious take on a
cherry latte made with cream, coffee liqueur and cherry vodka. Essentially, these
products and recipes are more than just
items and instructions – they’re a bid
to encourage us all to be a little bit more
like Blumenthal, to not be afraid of new
ingredients and to truly get creative
when cooking.
HESTON
These recipes are not only a celebration
of seasonality, but also a chance for budding culinary enthusiasts to try out and
experiment with the ingredients. Naturally, they are slightly less outlandish than
Blumenthal’s usual restaurant fare –
there’s no roast marrowbone or powdered
duck breast on offer – but the chef does
present a few unconventional alternatives
to the average ready meal. Despite the
adventurous flavours, key factors are
superior quality and relative accessibility,
achieved by combining Blumenthal’s
top-class ingredients with a few traditional favourites.
BY JAKE HALL
41
FOOD
Exploring the vibrant culinary offering of post industrial Nine Elms
Dirty Burger
Vauxhall Street Food Garden
A haven for Vauxhall’s culinary sinners,
serving shakes and a variety of burgers.
Relaxed al fresco dining spot
with a diverse menu changing daily.
Arch 54, 6 South Lambeth Rd,
London SW8 1SS.
6A South Lambeth Place,
London, SW8 1SP
Battersea Barge
Tamesis Dock
A unique venue floating on the Thames,
offering an excellent selection of food and
a well-stocked bar.
A floating pub hosting live music and
events — formerly a 1930s Dutch barge.
Albert Embankment,
London, SE1 7TP
Nine Elms Lane,
London, SW8 5BP
Canton Arms
Brunswick House
A traditional British pub serving a vast
drinks menu but more importantly,
great, traditional food. It recently
made Time Out’s list of ‘the best roasts
in London’.
A memorable dining experience in
an 18th Century Georgian Mansion.
30 Wandsworth Rd,
London, SW8 2LG
177 South Lambeth Road,
London SW8
Bonnington Café
Tea House Theatre
Vegan co-operative providing home-cooking
in a relaxed community atmosphere.
A multi-purpose venue situated in an old
Victorian pub serving loose leaf teas,
homemade sandwiches and cakes.
11 Vauxhall Grove,
London, SW8 1TD
139 Vauxhall Walk,
London, SE11 5HL
42
Nine Elms Tavern
Waitrose Nine Elms
A modern pub on the Thames,
offering seasonally-inspired classic
pub food, craft beer and fine wine.
An 18,000 sq. ft. store with a made-in-store
sushi counter, fresh meat and fish counters,
bakery, eat-in area, extensive wine department
and 138 space car park.
Riverlight Quay,
Nine Elms Lane, Vauxhall,
London, SW8 5BP
1 New Union Sq,
London, SW8 5DN
The Black Dog
Vauxhall Tavern
Pub serving seasonal menu of food,
wine, craft ale and cider.
Bar providing a diverse programme
of entertainment for the LGBTQ Community.
112 Vauxhall Walk,
London, SE11 5ER
372 Kennington Lane,
London, SE11 5HY
Vauxwall
Market Porter
Bouldering centre with lengthy
opening hours and fantastic facilities.
Grocery, deli, restaurant & wine bar,
locally inspired and unique to Nine Elms.
46–47a South Lambeth Rd,
London, SW8 1SR
7 New Union Square, Embassy Gardens,
London, SW8 5DN
The Dairy
Source
Located in Clapham, this British bistro
specialises in national dishes with a
twist, served against a red-brick
interior and accompanied by a fullystocked bar.
This Battersea brasserie is situated just
next to the Docks, teaming an international
wine list with a comprehensive menu cooked
mainly on a wood-fire grill.
Unit 29, Ransomes Dock, 35–37 Parkgate Rd,
London SW11 4NP
15 The Pavement, Clapham,
London SW4 0HY
The Butcher & Grill
Made in South
Diners here are offered not only a superb view,
but also the opportunity to see the meat used
for their meals prepared before their eyes
in the in-house butchery.
Named in reference to its Southern Italian
heritage, this pizzeria offers a customisable
menu cooked on a traditional wood-fire oven.
42 Lavender Hill,
London SW11 5RL
39–41 Parkgate Rd,
London SW11 4NP
43
THE EG:LE CLUB
44
A sanctuary in the heart of the city, the Embassy Gardens
Members’ club represents a new definition of stylish urban living.
It is a calling card for classic elegance meeting contemporary
style, innovation and ideas, a place where residents come
together to enjoy life at the centre of the world’s most exciting city.
This is London at its most inspiring.
Welcome to the
Club.
Exclusively
Yours
45
THE EG:LE CLUB
46
London at its most inspiring
THE SKY POOL
47
THE EG:LE CLUB
LOBBY
Life at EG:LE begins in the Lobby. The sun streaming through floor-to-ceiling windows, London
glimpsed through the garden greenery outside.
Graphic black and white marble flooring stretches throughout the space, bringing contemporary
edge to rich mahogany fittings. Daily newspapers
and magazines sit beside plush sofas and armchairs, a nod to the intimate ambience of a private
sitting room.
In one lounge, a library corner is the perfect pit
stop after a busy day, in another, coffee brings
clarity to an early start. Meeting guests, conducting business or simply a place to unwind;
whatever you want, whenever you want it.
At the desk, our 24-hour concierge is always on
hand to take care of those day to day details that
disrupt your flow: signing for a parcel in the
dedicated post room, booking a restaurant, dealing
with time-consuming admin – we’ve thought about
it all so you don’t have to.
BELMONT GYM
& POOL
THE EDISON SUITE &
THE BECKETT LOUNGE
Start the day as you mean to go on. Named after
the iconic Long Island recreation pool, the
Belmont Gym & Pool is where the relaxed elegance
of the EG:LE Club gives way to the hum of focus,
a dedication and efficiency that sets up the
hours ahead.
In the Edison Suite and Beckett Lounge, the day
really gets going. Evoking the spirit of two
ground-breaking scientific and artistic pioneers,
these are the EG:LE Club’s spaces for inspiration
and innovation. Find peace and quiet at dedicated workstations in the Edison Suite while the
Beckett Lounge brings club style to the workplace:
two private meeting rooms surrounded by
spacious lounge areas. And when it’s time to
unwind, a few rounds on the pool table never did
anyone any harm…
Equipped with the latest technology and
beautifully designed features, it’s both a haven
of relaxation and a temple of training.
Personal trainers craft a bespoke fitness plan;
studio classes get the blood pumping with spin or
aerobics, or soothe with yoga and pilates. Find
moments of peace sinking into the soothing waters
of our saltwater pool, or in the warm embrace of
the sauna and eucalyptus steam room.
In the spa, London’s top therapists deliver
a dedicated menu of treatments to relax and
rejuvenate body and mind. Tough day ahead,
busy day over, the Belmont is your space.
48
MAUREEN O’HARA
CINEMA We know that entertainment isn’t always about
entertaining. Named after the spirited Irish-American film actress, Maureen O’Hara, the EG:LE
Club’s private cinema is a place to forget the hustle
and bustle of the day and unwind. A programme
of latest releases, sporting events – or your own
private screenings – available exclusively for
EG:LE Club members. Simply sink into one of
the deep-seated plush sofas and enjoy...
SKY POOL
SKY DECK
E G : L E A PA R T M E N T
But EG:LE is about more than just formalities.
The entire Embassy Gardens rooftop is exclusively reserved for EG:LE members and their guests. During the day the Sky Deck is a place of
relaxation and rejuvenation; a few lengths of the
pool, a coffee at the bar. By night, the mood gently
shifts; coffees become cocktails, an informal
elegance infuses the entire space as the sun sets
over the city panorama.
Entertaining comes without the hassle in the
EG:LE Apartment. A beautifully furnished private
residence, the space infuses business and social
events with EG:LE elegance. A bold, contemporary design complements a striking art collection
– the perfect talking point. In the library, books in
classic built-in shelves frame a large flat screen
television. Presentation or party, no one will miss
a thing. Work or pleasure, or both – the Apartment
effortlessly brings people together.
A modern icon of architecture, the 25-metre,
crystal clear, acrylic Sky Pool stretches between
the two residential buildings. The London skyline
acts as a backdrop to your daily dip, while manicured private gardens stretch out 35 metres below.
Feel the weight of the world disappear as you fly
between the buildings, effortlessly suspended by
the water, or watch the spectacle from the sidelines
where guests luxuriate in sun loungers at either
end of the striking water feature.
A beautiful blend of historical innovation and
contemporary creativity, the Sky Pool is a representation of the philosophy behind EG:LE Club.
Inspired by Britain’s great aqueducts, created
using the latest innovative aquatic technologies,
it’s quite simply the world’s finest private pool.
In the Orangery, the relaxed glamour of yachting
in the Mediterranean comes to the centre of
London. World affairs debated over cocktails at
the bar; arts and music discussed in the Lounge.
A place of inspiration and an exchange of ideas at
the heart of the city’s contemporary business and
cultural worlds.
When it’s time for something more substantial,
members and their guests enjoy a modern
European menu crafted from seasonal, local
ingredients, served under a canopy of green.
Want something specific? Just ask. It’s your
restaurant after all.
49
This publication and the information contained in
it does not form part of any contract. All information
regarding prospective services, commercial or retail
tenants represents current intention only, and the
final identity of the services and tenants may change.
THE EG:LE CLUB
50
51
PROFILE
A
Modern Man
DIEGO BARRUECO
L i f e c o u l d h ave b e e n ex t r e m e l y d i f f e r e n t f o r S p a n i s h - b o r n m o d e l D i e g o B a rr u e c o .
H a d i t n o t b e e n f o r t h e s e l f i e s p o s te d o n h i s Tu m b l r a c c o u n t , h e c o u l d h ave s t i l l b e e n s t u d y i n g
H i s to r y, E n g l i s h L i te r a t u r e a n d L a n g u a g e a t a S p a n i s h u n i ve r s i t y. I n s te a d , h e n o w s i ts f ro n t ro w
a t L o n d o n C o l l e c t i o n s : M e n a n d s p e n d s w i l d n i g h ts i n s t r i p c l u b s w i t h A $ A P R o c ky.
52
P H OTOG RAPHY BY OZ THAKKAR, ST YLING BY NIK THAKKAR
53
PROFILE
54
A new breed of model
DIEGO BARRUECO
Barrueco is a new breed of model, one which intrinsically understands
the importance of social media and harnesses its potential to
communicate directly with fans. His Instagram account currently
boasts almost 600,000 followers (including Ellie Goulding and Cara
Delevingne), all of which virtually follow Barrueco to the front rows of
KTZ and Christopher Raeburn.
This enormous online presence was enough to lead to modelling
opportunities which rolled in from overseas while Barrueco continued
to pursue his education. The reblogs and likes on the aforementioned
Tumblr selfies soon mounted, quickly multiplying from hundreds to
thousands – enough to prompt him to drop out of education and pursue
a modelling career full-time. This career has already seen him star
alongside Charlotte Free and Winnie Harlow in Diesel’s SS15 campaign,
cementing his status as one to watch in an industry which increasingly
views social media followers as commercial currency.
Barrueco is also the star of this cinematic editorial, inspired by the
atmospheric visuals of film noir and the Brett Easton-Ellis’ cult classic
“American Psycho”. He embodies the role of Patrick Bateman, exuding
55
enigmatic appeal against the interior backdrop of London’s Embassy
Gardens. Created and conceived by Oz Thakkar and Nik Thakkar, this
dark aesthetic is extended sartorially by luxury pieces from Ada + Nik,
Louis Vuitton and Dior Homme. Barrueco also models select looks
from the Kingsman range, exclusive to Mr Porter. Using Arianne
Phillipps’ costume design for “Kingsman: The Secret Service” as a base
reference point, Matthew Vaughan created a bespoke collection which
reinterprets the film’s aesthetic in a series of wool blazers, tortoiseshell
glasses and cashmere outerwear.
The resulting images prove Barrueco to be a perfect fit, serving as a
visual translation both of his love for South West London and role as
a digital pioneer. We see him dressed in sports-luxe pieces at the
Embassy Gardens gym, before moving on to recline in the lobby with
a newspaper and an iPad. Not only is he stylish, he is emblematic of a
modern man concerned not only with his own style, but also with the
style of his surroundings.
BY JAKE HALL
PROFILE
Diego embodies the role of Patrick Bateman,
exuding enigmatic appeal against the interior backdrop
of London’s Embassy Gardens.
56
57
C R E D ITS
R EDEF I NI NG LO NDO N’S S K YL I NE
BY MONICHA TULLY,
JAKE HALL
L A PET I T E A NG L A I S E
BY MONICHA TULLY
CREATIVE DIRECTION
BY NIK THAKKAR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
OZ THAKKAR
STYLING BY ELLA CATLIFF
MAKE UP BY
ANNMARIE LAWSON
NAILS BY AMBER SCOTT
ELLA WEARS
AGENT PROVOCATEUR
COAT BY BURBERRY
DRESS BY ELIZABETH
AND JANE
NECKLACE BY J CREW
SHOES AND BAG BY
RALPH LAUREN
SUNGLASSES BY POMELLATO
LINGERIE BY AGENT
PROVOCATEUR
SUIT
ALL HUGO BOSS
BRA BY AGENT PROVOCATEUR
A M OD E R N M A N
BY JAKE HALL
CREATIVE DIRECTION AND STYLING
BY N I K T H AK K AR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
O Z T H AK K AR
D I E GO W E AR S J AC K E T
B Y K I N GS M AN AT
M R PO R T E R , S H I R T B Y D I O R
BOXING
TOP BY ADA + NIK
POOL TABLE
SHIRT BY KILGOUR AT
MR PORTER
TROUSERS BY LOUIS VUITTON
CINEMA
JACKET BY KINGSMAN AT
MR PORTER
SHIRT BY DIOR
LOBBY
COAT BY KINGSMAN AT
MR PORTER
SUNGLASSES BY CUTLER AND
GROSS FOR KINGSMAN
IPAD CASE BY LOUIS VUITTON
SHOES BY SONS OF LONDON
TROUSERS BY ADA + NIK
SHIRT BY DIOR
T H E G LO BA L S O UT H
BY SHWETAL PATEL
FAS H I O N DES I G NER S
BY REBECCA BOYCE
DI A MO ND I N T H E DI R T
BY MONICHA TULLY
FO UR T R A NSAT L A NT I C CR EAT I V ES
BY JAKE HALL
PHOTO CREDITS:
MILLIE BROWN BY AARON SEE
AND SOUTH FIFTH
ENTERTAINMENT
ALO LEE BY PATRICK HOPE
SAM LANSKY BY FRANK SUN
KOJEY RADICAL BY ROSIE
MATHESON
LO NDO N’S H I G H L I NE
BY JAMES CORNER, ARCHITECT,
FIELD OPERATIONS NYC
T H E B EAUT Y I N NAT UR E
BY MONIQUE KAWECKI
S W EET O N S O UT H LO NDO N
BY REBECCA BOYCE
LO O K I NG TO T H E F UT UR E
BY MONICHA TULLY
FASHI ON C R E D I TS
ADA + NIK
WWW.ADAXNIK.COM
AGENT PROVOCATEUR
WWW.AGENTPROVOCATEUR.COM
CUTLER & GROSS
WWW.CUTLERANDGROSS.COM
BURBERRY
WWW.BURBERRY.COM
DIOR
WWW.DIOR.COM
ELIZABETH & JANE
WWW.ELIZABETHANDJAMES.US
KINGSMAN AT MR PORTER
WWW.MRPORTER.COM
J CREW
WWW.JCREW.COM
LOUIS VUITTON
WWW.LOUISVUITTON.COM
HUGO BOSS
WWW.HUGOBOSS.COM
POMELLATO
WWW.POMELLATO.COM
RALPH LAUREN
WWW.RALPHLAUREN.COM

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