LIVING IN STYLE - Berkeley Group Holdings...They throw ultra-cool secret gigs in intimate venues –...

Berkeley Life Issue 1

Style and

substance for mod

ern living

B E R K E L E Y

Inspiring places and beautiful spaces

LIVINGIN STYLE

FOR ALL YOUR ASTON MARTIN REQUIREMENTSNEW, PRE-OWNED, SERVICING, PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

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Berkeley Life 3

Exceptional places to live

Welcome to Berkeley Life magazine, bringing you the very best of our quality homes and a lifestyle to match.

We know that buying a home is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make and, in this magazine, we’ll show you everything you can expect from buying a Berkeley home.

We create exceptional places for people to live, work and enjoy, designed for today, tomorrow and the future. And with incredible design in mind, in this issue we take a look at bespoke watches, aesthetic cycling gear and the stunning penthouse at our new development One Blackfriars – it will blow you away.

The importance of location is always paramount and Berkeley has somewhere for everyone, with developments all over London, the South East, and the Midlands. We also strive to protect the country’s wonderful heritage. Our feature on Trent Park explores this charming landmark’s rich history that we are helping to preserve.

We offer choices for everyone, whether you’re a first-time buyer desiring a city centre location, a couple looking for somewhere to retire, or a family needing more space. Perhaps you’re looking for a

strong community or a waterside property. Discover how being close to rivers or lakes can boost your wellbeing in our Calm Waters feature.

Sustainability is hugely important to us, with all our developments helping people, communities and the environment to flourish together, and there’s more on how we do this in our Wild at Heart feature. Our commitment to the environment was part of the reason why we won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2008 and 2014 – the only developer to win this award twice – and Best Housebuilder at the Building Awards 2017. We also picked up a UK Customer Satisfaction Award in 2016 because we always give our customers impeccable service. That’s why 98 per cent of customers say they would recommend us to a friend.

They would say their decision to purchase a home with Berkeley has enhanced their lives. So elsewhere in the magazine, we look at other ways you can do this whether it’s taking the road trip of a lifetime, eating an experiential meal, or relaxing on a tropical island.

Pursuit of quality is something that we have prided ourselves on for more than 40 years. It’s what makes us who we are and sets us apart from others. That’s the Berkeley difference.

The Corniche penthouse offers incredible views

across London

ContentsSeven wondersFrom eco-friendly designs and a fairytale castle to the most expensive gin in the world

Bespoke It’s all in the details, according to Adrian Aldred, founder of luxury custom watch service Convopiece

The sky’s the limitDiscover the inspiration behind One Blackfriars

World’s greatest drivesThe most spectacular road trips to experience

The art of soundCreate your own decorative wall with speakers

Painting with foodThe Man Behind the Curtain talks culinary artistry

Wild at heartHow Berkeley is helping to increase biodiversity at Kidbrooke Village in south-east London

Ice breaker Take a voyage to the Antarctic on a superyacht

A home with heritageHow Trent Park helped win World War II

Art revolutionThe galleries disrupting the art world

How to buy a classic carFind your perfect vintage vehicle

Calm watersWhy time spent by water can make us feel happier

Treasure islandsJet off to one of these stunning destinations

Pedalling fashionFormer pro cyclist David Millar on fusing style and technology to create high-performance cycling gear

The Berkeley Group Portfolio Our listings of Berkeley developments

No place like home…What it means to all of us

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EDITOR: Zoe BirdsallDEPUTY EDITOR: Matt LizzimoreART DIRECTOR: Sandra MarquesMANAGING EDITOR: Ilana HarrisPICTURE EDITOR: Dominique Campbell CONTRIBUTORS: Mark Bailey, Tom Bailey, Noam Friedlander, Chantelle Horton, Alison Krog, Martin Port, Gershon Portnoi, Paul Simpson, Monicha Tully PRODUCTION MANAGER: Anthony DavisHEAD OF PRODUCTION OPERATIONS: Trevor SimpsonHEAD OF DIGITAL STRATEGY: Ed MarriageHEAD OF CREATIVE: Martin TullettHEAD OF OPERATIONS: Justine LoehryHEAD OF CLIENT ENGAGEMENT: David Spon-SmithDIRECTOR, WONDERLY: Issie Peate

PICTURE CREDITS: Cover: Taplow Riverside by Simon Winson/Berkeley Homes; 500px, Francesco Vaninetti, Heritage Images, Tagliatella Style, Westend61, Total 911 Magazine Future, FilippoBacci, The Asahi Shimbun/Getty Images; The Man Behind the Curtain; Trent Park, 1934, Whistler Rex/Bridgeman Images; Shadric Toop for Glyndebourne; James Bellorini; Andrew Gough; Chon Kit Leong/Alamy Stock Photo; Matthew Miller; Adam Roberts; WPA; Tony Hussey; Matt Livey, Simon Winson/Berkeley Homes; Taylor Fuller; Mike Toy Photography; denisisland.com; Six Senses; Jason Busch; @batholmen_norway/airbnb; Allen Markey/Private Islands Online; Ian Walton, David Powell/CHPT3

© Berkeley Group 2020. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced. stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the prior permission of the copyright owner (Berkeley Group) and the publisher, Wonderly (part of the Haymarket Media Group Ltd). Every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine but neither The Berkeley Group or Haymarket Media Group Ltd can be held responsible for the accuracy of the information therein, nor any consequence arising from it. Views expressed by contributors may not reflect those of The Berkeley Group or Haymarket Media Group Ltd. Information correct at time of printing. Computer-generated images of The Berkeley Group’s developments are indicative only.

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Bike boss Cycling doesn’t have to mean garish Lycra

A meal to rememberMichael O’Hare’s Michelin-starred restaurant is full of surprises

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On the road again Your guide to the most exciting drives around the world

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4 Berkeley Life Berkeley Life 5

B E R K E L E Y

Berkeley Life 7

Jazz singer Gregory Porter played a secret Sofar Sounds gig

6 Berkeley Life

SEVENWONDERS

1An evening at Glyndebourne

“Glyndebourne is absolutely English in the best sense, and truly inclusive in its welcome.

All that is required is that you come in the spirit of adventure and enjoyment, and have a good time,” is how novelist Jeanette Winterson describes the Glyndebourne Opera Festival, in Glynde, Sussex, which has become one of the highlights of the British summer. The only other requirement – if you are driving – is to watch out for the alpacas, 600 of which graze around the Opera House.

The festival is family run. Chairman Gus Christie is the grandson of John Christie, who launched the festival in 1934. The vibe is home-made and spontaneous.

The 90-minute interval during performances – when many guests tuck into their lavishly stocked picnic hampers – makes the evenings feel as convivial as one of Jay Gatsby’s parties. There is a dress code – black tie and evening dress, think cocktail party rather than hunt ball – but the organisers are adroit at guiding first-time visitors, and the festival is too eccentric to be stuffy.

One visitor fell into the lake during the interval while trying to retrieve some wine he had left to cool there. Bedraggled, he tried to slink away until a member of staff spotted him, led him to the wardrobe department, clothed him and laundered his sodden suit in time for him to wear it on the train back.glyndebourne.com

Best foot forward… Walk tall in these unisex ‘Bagger 2 Red Low’ sneakers by London

eco-footwear brand Good News. These are made from recycled rubber pellets ground down from car tyres and old rubber shoes; organic cotton, grown

without pesticides; and have a cushioned eco footbed. Even the metal eyelets are recycled.

£110, goodnews.london

Cheers! Made from upcycled metal ring pulls, this shiny ‘Luciana’ bag by BOTTLETOP is guaranteed to attract attention. The luxury accessories business is on a mission to empower people and help the planet through sustainable design. They train local artisans in Brazil with new skills and crafts, and opened the

world’s first ever 3D-printed store, made from upcycled ocean plastic, on London’s Regent Street.

£145, bottletop.org

Sitting comfortably It may not look like it, but this

stylish ‘Hembury’ chair is actually made from wool sourced from hill-farmed

Herdwick sheep in the Lake District. The founders

of Solidwool have created a unique wool and bio-resin composite material as a sustainable

alternative to petrochemical-based reinforced plastics.

They’re helping revive the British wool

industry too.£395,

solidwool.com

2Sustainable style

3Living room gig

Opera with a difference: Rusalka by Dvorák at Glyndebourne

T here’s something truly magical about watching a band play live. But who enjoys queuing at the bar for a

glass of warm beer? Or struggling to see the stage? Sofar Sounds is the antidote to arenas and stadiums. They throw ultra-cool secret gigs in intimate venues – from art galleries to living rooms.

It all started in 2009, when Sofar founder Rafe Offer invited some mates over to his flat to hear a performance by friend and musician Dave Alexander. Both realised that small attentive crowds made for an unforgettable experience. Since then, Sofar Sounds has hosted gigs in more than 400 cities around the world. Ed Sheeran, Gregory Porter and Hozier are just some of the performers who have graced the Sofar line-up – but the audience don’t know who

is going to be on the bill in advance.

H O S T I T A T H O M E You can apply for tickets on their website (it’s a bit of a lottery). But why not go one step further and become a host? If Sofar likes the sound of your space, they’ll contact you within a few weeks. They will handle everything from

the curated guest list to the logistics. In return, they will reserve a few places for your friends. Artists play a stripped-back set to keep noise-levels low and your neighbours happy. The Sofar team usually arrives late afternoon, guests arrive early evening, and the event wraps up by 10.30pm. The team will be on hand to clean up after the show.sofarsounds.com

SEVENWONDERS

8 Berkeley Life

5What does it take to be

a wine sommelier?

Berkeley Life 9

A wine what? A sommelier. If you’re unsure whether to pour a Pinot Noir or an Albarino with your monkfish, a sommelier is the person to ask. They’re the trained wine professionals you’ll come across imparting their wisdom in fine dining restaurants and wine shops. They specialise in wine service, including food and wine pairing. Some will choose the wine list and organise the cellar too.

What a great job. So you just need to drink a lot of wine to become one? Not exactly. Becoming a master sommelier is no small task. It’s important to have a combination of experience, training, formal education and examinations. But why not learn for fun – to get the most from your wine and impress your friends?

Tell me more… There are a variety of ways to self-train. The first step is to constantly taste new wine. Developing your palate will aid in identifying and distinguishing between different flavours. Practise by blind tasting and identifying wines.

Ah, all that quaffing sounds good… That’s part of it, but looking and smelling wine is just as important. And it’s always recommended to read about the wine you are drinking – discovering the region it was grown in, the climate and the terroir (soil) will improve your knowledge. Be prepared to get your head around all the lingo – from tannins to wine legs.

I see. And the exams part? Sommeliers don’t go to cook school, they go to the Court of Master Sommeliers – an international organisation located in the UK. It aims to encourage better standards of beverage service. Start with the Introductory Sommelier course.

More fun than studying maths, then? It can be, but you do need to pass four sets of challenging exams to call yourself a Master Sommelier. It’s definitely not an easy option – only 269 people in the world have earned this title.

There’s more to Los Angeles than film studios and theme parks. Here, a local shares the off-beat places not to miss in this sprawling metropolis.

THE MUSSO & FRANK GRILLFeatured in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, The Musso & Frank Grill is said to serve around 55,000 martinis every year and offers such traditional delicacies as Welsh rarebit and calf ’s liver. Dine in one of the red booths, which have been frequented by such Hollywood legends as Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra and Scarlett Johansson. 6667 Hollywood Blvd, CA 90028

HOLLYWOOD FARMERS’ MARKETCovering four blocks, the Hollywood Farmers’ Market will spoil you with choice. Founded in 1991, it hosts 160 farmers and food producers. Part of the charm is that, although the market attracts 12,000 visitors, you feel as if you are an honorary member of the community, not just an out-of-town shopper.Sundays, 8am-1pm, between Ivar Avenue and Selma Avenue, CA 90028

THE AMERICAN HOTELOpening its doors in 1905, The American Hotel was the first place in LA to offer quality accommodation to African-Americans. In the 1990s, the hotel bar

promoted such

emerging grunge acts as the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Redeveloped in 2013, The American is at the heart of LA’s arts district. The hotel’s eye-popping art includes a monumental portrait of local pop artist Ed Ruscha and the massive mural La Abuelita/Má’sání (left) on the side of the building.303 South Hewitt Street, CA 90013

MUSH The store’s exotic home decorations, handpicked by globetrotting owner, Michelle van der Heijden, vary from original Navajo bracelets to rock and roll love seats and paintings by community artists from across America. Van der Heijden’s Mush feels like a more relaxed variant of an eclectic Greenwich Village store in the 1980s. 1617 Silverlake Boulevard, CA 90026

BRONSON CAVES Holy bat bulges! Who could resist the chance to stand in the very ‘Batcave’ from which the Dynamic Duo sped out in the Batmobile in the kitsch 60s TV series Batman? Quarrying turned this remote corner of Griffith Park into a rugged wilderness, an ideal location for nearby Hollywood studios. This is one of the best spots to hike to the legendary Hollywood sign.3200 Canyon Drive, CA 90068

HOLYLAND EXHIBITIONIn a discreet home in East LA is a fascinating small museum packed with artifacts recovered by Antonia F. Futterer, the Australian often cited as the inspiration for Indiana Jones. Much like Indy in Raiders of the Lost Ark, Futterer

tried to find the Golden Ark of the Covenant. He failed but on other journeys he unearthed some amazing treasures – notably a 2,700-year-old sarcophagus – and laid the foundations of a museum that, once seen, is never forgotten.2215 Lake View Avenue, CA 90039

THE LAST BOOKSTORE With tunnels built from used books, volumes suspended in mid-air and vintage titles in hidden side rooms, this independent bookstore feels like a sublime amalgam of Hogwarts and the British Library. Based in the former Crocker National Bank in downtown LA – hence the marble pillars and mile-high ceiling – the store’s cheapest books cost $1. One of the City of Angels’ most Instagrammable shops. 453 S Spring St, CA 90013

Tunnels of books: there are stacks to choose from in The Last Bookstore

Street art: a mural on the exterior of The American Hotel

4The insider’s guide to LA

SEVENWONDERS

10 Berkeley Life

Gin’s popularity is showing no signs of slowing down. The demand for craft and artisan gins is at an all-time high, some of which come with a considerable price tag.

Morus LXIV, exclusively released by Harvey Nichols, is currently the most expensive and one of the rarest gins in the world, priced at a cool £4,000 for a 70cl jar.

A single batch takes luxury gin makers Jam Jar Gin two years to make and is distilled from a single ancient Mulberry tree (Morus nigra). With a 64% ABV cask strength, the taste mirrors the origins of where the botanical ingredients were collected – dried leaves, freshly cut wood and the subtle scent of wet earth, accompanied with a smoky sweetness.

The exquisite gin is encased in a handmade white porcelain jar with finely detailed cotton paper labelling on the front, and includes a matching 30ml miniature and a porcelain stirrup cup covered with leather. Extremely limited with only 25 bottles of the 70cl Morus LXIV made, you’ll be lucky to get your hands on one, but if you do, it could be quite the investment.harveynichols.com

As pleasure domes go, nothing can match Neuschwanstein Castle. Built into a rugged hill above the

Bavarian village of Hohenschwangau, it has enough bling to make Las Vegas look understated, a silhouette that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and such ahead-of-its-time technology as automatically flushing toilets.

To step inside the castle, adorned with motifs and murals of swans, poets and grails, is to enter the dream world of King Ludwig II, who owned and

commissioned it. Styled to resemble a Byzantine basilica, the Throne Room is so bold, tall and opulent that it takes a while to grasp that the chandelier really is four metres high. The room was designed by Ludwig as his private sanctuary.

Neuschwanstein (literally ‘new swan stone’ in English) cost around £205m to build in today’s money, but was never quite finished. In 1886, with the Bavarian state facing bankruptcy, the King was declared insane and dethroned. But Ludwig died a day later, probably by his own hand, at the

age of 41. After his death, the castle was opened to the public – it now attracts around 1.5 million visitors a year who flock to see Ludwig’s incredible interiors and ambitious architectural vision. (It is a two-hour drive – or a three-hour train journey – from Munich.)

Ludwig once wrote to a relative: “I want to remain an enigma, even to myself.” Neuschwanstein is once-seen never-forgotten proof that its creator remains an enigmatic genius.neuschwanstein.de/englisch/palace/

King Ludwig II (left) and his vast, over-the-top castle

6Neuschwanstein

Castle

7The most expensive

gin in the world

Berkeley Life 11

Berkeley Life 1312 Berkeley Life

BespokeWATCHES

Adrian Aldred, founder of Convopiece – a high-end luxury watch service – talks personalised designs, bringing his clients’ visions

to life, and how he has helped to reshape the industry

WORDS ZOE BIRDSALL

PHOTOGRAPHY TAL SILVERMAN,

ANDY BARTER & DE BETHUNE


WATCHES

atches are more than just physical objects for Adrian Aldred, creative director and founder of luxury watch company Convopiece. They’re even more than a piece of fine art and intricate mechanism. Aldred believes that watches are a symbol of our character and evoke feelings within us.

With a background in design, Aldred has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world, including Google and Aston Martin, as well as teaming up with some of the world’s most renowned independent watchmakers to offer clients something truly special and tailor-made.

“It’s a service,” explains Aldred. “We create watches to suit the client’s taste. You may come to me and say you love topaz as a stone, it’s your birthstone. You’ve looked out there and haven’t seen any watches that fit the bill. You give me a brief, you’d like a case that is more tonneau [barrel] shaped than completely round. And then I find a top watchmaker and have them create a bespoke watch for you. Alternatively, I can look at what you’re wearing, get an understanding of your taste, understand your nuances and I will find a few unique watches that might suit your taste.”

Running a brand is about resilience and initiative for Aldred: “It’s investing in your vision and passion.” The intricate detailing on a watch is a piece of art in itself, sometimes taking over a year to perfect. “Know where you can innovate, understand your client base and always go further than what might be expected.”

Aldred goes above and beyond to deliver first-class customer service. He pulls out a beautifully bound book that he designed as a surprise for a client. It is the story of their watch being made over nine months, including the first sketch that Aldred drew on the train after their first meeting.

“I connect people,” he explains. “You’re no longer dependent on what’s launching. I wanted to create an experience with such depth that no department store or high street could provide it. Every experience is individual to each person.”

From an early age, Aldred had a passion for watches: “The root was growing up in hip hop

culture – LL Cool J, Big Daddy Kane, all these rappers that I admired, big jewellery was the thing. I’m a petite guy, I don’t need a big chain, but I liked the discretion of wearing something incredible on your wrist. I began learning about the value of watches when I was young. I liked the anonymity, you don’t know what I’m wearing but it has value to me, it’s mechanical and beautifully crafted. That was the seed and then I fuelled my passion.” By working weekends in a barbershop, Aldred owned his first Rolex at just nineteen years old.

The more he studied watches, the more he found that the market was dominated by the leading brands, with incredible pieces often being overlooked. In 2008, Aldred travelled to his first Baselworld watch fair where he saw watches that blew his mind. “I thought I’d soon see them back home but they never arrived. I met people with incredible watches that didn’t have a UK distributor and thought ‘these are conversation pieces’. People might not know the brand but if it’s distinctive enough for them to remark on it, it will evoke a feeling in people.”

From this, Convopiece was born. Aldred’s vision – to work with renowned watchmakers to design bespoke, luxury pieces – became a reality. It means clients can shop and create from the convenience of their living room if they wish, with Aldred’s impressive appointment box in tow. Found in an antique shop in Chiswick, the 1930s engineer box was customised by the finest craftsmen. The box automatically opens at the touch of a button to reveal its gems inside and an illuminated mirror, adding to the showmanship.

Convopiece offers buyers an alternative from the mainstream, with one-off pieces that work for their owner in every way. “Even if you’re a fan of the big brands, it’s possible to customise them,” adds Aldred. “I want my clients to feel understood and amazed, for them not to know what’s to come next, but to know that imagination and creativity can get them exactly what they want.” That ‘wow’ feeling you can get from bespoke service – and a timeless piece of art to treasure for years to come – sums up what Convopiece is all about. Because everyone needs a conversation piece.

WOne of a kind: Convopiece’s luxurious watches are designed exactly to suit clients’ individual tastes

One Blackfriars has become an awe-inspring addition to London’s skyline. We take a tour of its luxury penthouse

WORDS MONICHA TULLY


The sky’s the limit

ONE BLACKFRIARS

nnovative design is about so much more than aesthetics; it is an attitude that incorporates avant-garde technology, human need and beauty to create something utterly unique that makes the world a more beautiful place. One Blackfriars, a St George development, is the perfect example of this – a magnificent new 50-storey, 170-metre-high landmark with 274 light-filled residences, a 161-bedroom boutique hotel and landscaped piazza. It is an idyllic marriage of exquisite design, science and art.

It overlooks the Thames and offers sweeping views across the city, which are magical at dawn, dusk or at night. So many of London’s crown jewels can be seen, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and St Paul’s Cathedral. However, One Blackfriars has become a signature sight in its own right, powerful and elegant in equal measure, standing proudly on the South Bank.

ARTISTIC VISIONAward-winning SimpsonHaugh Architects are behind this beacon of architectural brilliance that has brought a piece of art to life.

Celebrated Finnish master craftsman Timo Sarpaneva used a wealth of materials throughout his illustrious career but considered glass to be the most noble of them all. In 1952, he sculpted a glass vase – little did he know that it would redefine London’s skyline almost seven decades later.

British lead architect and firm co-founder, Ian Simpson is a collector of mid-century design, art and sculpture and was greatly inspired by Sarpaneva’s Lansetti II vase when creating the shape of the building. Although the vase stands at a mere 28cm, making One Blackfriars around 600 times taller, the elegantly curved geometry, transparent glass surface and spirit of movement are at the heart of One Blackfriars’ aesthetic.

SimpsonHaugh were magicians, capturing and celebrating movement so that the building seems to flow gracefully into the sky itself. Simpson was also incredibly →

I


ONE BLACKFRIARS

The incredible Lansetti penthouse is set over the top five floors of One Blackfriars

ONE BLACKFRIARS

“In architecture, beauty is a building that has the right profile, the right

proportions, the right materials”

IAN SIMPSON SIMPSONHAUGH ARCHITECTS

sensitive to One Blackfriars’ iconic location, but knew he wanted to make an epic contribution to London’s silhouette.

Simpson says: “In architecture, beauty is a building that has the right profile, the right proportions, the right materials – it is when all these factors subtly work together to create a singular object that is special and distinctive.

“After many years of evolution, refinement, development and now construction, I believe we have finally created a piece of sculpture in the sky. What we have made is unique for this site, the city and this time.”

LUXURY LIVINGOne Blackfriars’ crowning glory is The Lansetti penthouse. “My desire to create a piece of sculpture that engages with the city in front of it is most apparent at the top, in The Lansetti,” says Simpson.

SimpsonHaugh worked closely with famed interior desiger Brigitta Spinocchia Freund of London firm Spinocchia Freund, in the pursuit of perfection to deliver a masterpiece. The pioneering team have set a new benchmark for architecture, engineering, design and construction – this sculptured sanctuary is like nothing London, or the world in fact, has ever seen before.

Set over five floors, The Lansetti spans 16,614 sq ft and is the epitome of avant-garde design and opulence, offering refined luxury living. Natural light dances around The Lansetti, illuminating the heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of the interior

design. Tones are largely light to merge with the bulding’s luminosity, while darker accents and tactile materials bring in depth and richness.

The Lansetti’s vast living spaces are located on the lower levels, slowly rising up and reducing in scale to the terraces at the top, which wrap around the core of the building. Each layer has a subtle flow to it, allowing residents to move from room to room and from floor to floor seamlessly and with ease.

The entrance to the penthouse is through the grand hall, where double doors open into a triple-height Art Deco-inspired central atrium, adorned in sycamore panelling. An opulent staircase ascends upwards to the third floor, offering a perfect moment to admire the glittering three-storey tall, bespoke chandelier.

On the first level, the grand river-facing reception room offers panoramic views of the London skyline. On the west side, the living and dining areas face Westminster. The striking formal dining room features bespoke curved joinery with marble shelving and antique mirrors. On the east side, facing the City, there’s a hub of entertainment and adventure, including a library, games lounge and screening room/cinema with refreshment area. →


The magnificentmaster bedroom in The Lansettioffers stunning viewsof London (above)

The Lansetti II vase (left) by Timo Sarpaneva inspired One Blackfriars architect Ian Simpson (opposite)

“My desire to create a piece of sculpture

that engages with the city in front of it is

most apparent at the top, in The Lansetti”

IAN SIMPSON SIMPSONHAUGH ARCHITECTS

On the next level, the main guest bedroom suite is reached through double doors and has a phenomenal sense of symmetry. There are three further magnificent en-suite bedrooms, and guests can also enjoy a state-of-the-art gym and treatment room in total privacy.

Follow the majestic central staircase skywards and arrive at the master suite, which spans the entire floor. The palatial river-facing bedroom has two master dressing rooms, his-and-hers en-suites lined with onyx, as well as a hot tub and shower located in a tranquil garden, surrounded by foliage. Situated either side of the bedroom is a home office that overlooks the City, and a spacious day lounge.

The stunning staircase continues to curve upwards to the wide glass observatory. On this level, an informal lounge, study and children’s AV/tech room provide plenty of space to work, play or relax.

The elegant tasting lounge, decorated with bronze glass and vintage mirror, is the perfect place for entertaining. Its opulent

wine-tasting area features bespoke wine fridges and a humidor. Beyond is an indoor terrace overlooking London – a celebration of the unique opportunity to live among the clouds.

TOP TIEROn the final level, the lush greenery of the horizon garden reflects the heavens, offering a chance to enjoy social and tranquil spaces, such as the stunning terrace reception and the intimate lounge area that is flooded with golden sunlight. This ethereal oasis feels worlds away from the bright lights of the city below. Illuminated by the sky above, it is a fitting crown for The Lansetti.

One Blackfriars offers a masterclass in the art of living and in the words of the great Frank Lloyd Wright, “If you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.”


Watch the sunset in The Lansetti’s tasting lounge (above)

Entertain in style in the lavish dining room (opposite)

ONE BLACKFRIARS

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ONE

BLACKFRIARS, SEE OUR PORTFOLIO p72-85


You’ll want the top down for this one – this route is truly stunning. It’s a 249-mile

coastal cruise along the windswept Southern Ocean – think dramatic rock formations, crashing waves and magnificent cliff-top views. There are plenty of reasons to stop, too. The 12 Apostles is a particular highlight – seven towering

limestone stacks that rise out of the water and stand up to 50 metres high.

Once you’ve had your fill of shoreside delights, pull into the Great Otway National Park for a change of pace. Here, you can walk through tall forests, visit peaceful lakes and wonder at the remarkable Triplet Falls. Venture on, and you

can take a detour to the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve to spot some kangaroos, emus and koalas. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of opportunities to sample the local catch of the day, or even freshly shucked oysters. While you’re at it, why not visit one of the local vineyards and grab a bottle for the evening?

1Great Ocean Road

Australia, Torquay to Nelson

From breathtaking scenic cruises to pulse-quickening blasts through mountain switchbacks – these iconic

routes should be top of your road trip wish list

WORDS MATT LIZZIMORE

World’s greatest drives

ADVENTURE


GREATEST DRIVES XXXXXX ADVENTURE

The Col de Turini is one of the most iconic stages in motorsport – it’s part of

the legendary Monte Carlo Rally, but occasionally lends itself as a gruelling cycling stage too. The rally route connects La Bollène-Vésubie to Sospel and is a challenging maze of tight twisting turns and hairpins that burst into quick straights – many corners are still

decorated with rubber left from overzealous rally drivers. This is a real technical centrepiece in the world of rallying, and a stern test for any car and driver. If you fancy a break from playing rally king, take a moment to survey the picturesque mountain views. Or, for a proper rest, the glamour of Monte Carlo is but a short drive away.

3Col de Turini

France, La Bollène-Vésubie to Sospel

Get behind the wheel of something quick and agile – this is one for the driving enthusiast.

Winding its way through the Swiss Alps, the Furka Pass blends sensational scenery with speedy switchbacks. You may have seen James Bond weaving his Aston Martin DB5 through these very

roads during the famous scene in Goldfinger – even if his sat-nav said otherwise. It doesn’t take that long to see why they chose this setting. Threading your car through the hairpins is exhilarating. Then, stop near the now-closed Hotel Belvedere to admire the scenery and maybe take a

detour into the magical Rhône Glacier Ice Grotto to marvel at its captivating shades of blue. Power on, and you’ll enjoy some straights between the tight bends with velvet-smooth road surfaces. The road is usually closed during winter, so this is one for a summer break.

2 Furka Pass

Swiss Alps, Gletsch to Realp


ADVENTURE

Transfăgărășan has achieved cult status among keen motorists, and with good reason. The roads

are well-paved, the views are exceptional, and few places get the adrenaline pumping like this splendid 56-mile ribbon of asphalt. There’s a fantastic mix of tight hairpins and long S-curves as the road twists and climbs through Moldoveanu and Negoiu – the highest peaks in the country.

If you need a break from driving, you can visit the glorious Balea Lake – a

glacial lake 2,034 metres up in the mountains, complete with its own ‘Ice Hotel’. Transfăgărășan – sometimes referred to as ‘Ceaușescu’s folly’ – was built in the early 1970s, using 6,000 tonnes of dynamite, under the orders of ruler Nicolae Ceaușescu, supposedly for quick military access across the mountains in the event of a Soviet invasion. It also happens to be the best road in the world according to Clarkson et al – it’s hard to argue otherwise.

Romania, Carpathian Mountains

4 Transfagarasan


ADVENTURE

The striking, panoramic views of the Florida Keys’ beautifully blue waters are

just one of the many attractions offered by the Overseas Highway. The 113-mile route runs from Miami to Key West, and while it provides no high-octane thrills, the scenery and points of interest make it a must-drive. Be sure to fill up on conch fritters and key lime pie at Key Largo, before heading to Islamorada to visit the famous History of Diving Museum and its collection of novel early diving apparatus. Further along at Marathon, you can swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Centre. As you leave, you’ll join the epic Seven Mile Bridge, where the views are truly astounding. Once you’ve made it to Key West, why not try some local stone crab and have a well-earned rest?

5 Overseas Highway Florida, Miami to Key West

The Irohazaka winding road joins the Japanese city of

Nikkō to the spectacular Lake Chūzenji – and in the autumn it looks staggeringly beautiful. It happens to be fantastic fun to drive, too. Irohazaka is split into two one-way roads that climb and descend more than 1,300 feet, and offer 48 exhilarating hairpin turns, which is how the road gets its name. Zaka means slope, while the 48-character ancient Japanese syllabary began with i-ro-ha. So each corner is given a sign with its own designated character.

6IrohazakaJapan, Nikkō to Lake Chūzenji


T H E A R T O F S O U N DWORDS MATT LIZZIMORE

Too often in the technosphere, usability takes a back seat to

aesthetics. But, if you look hard enough, there are still some genuine design triumphs to be found – objects that look beautiful, yet innovate.

Take Bang & Olufsen’s BeoSound Shape for example. The designer, Øivind Alexander Slaatto, was inspired by hexagonal geometry in the world around us – in molecules, crystals, snowflakes etc. The result is something that looks like a piece of wall art. But it’s more than that – it’s your wall art; you choose the number of modules, the layout, the colours and the materials – including wool fabrics from Danish textile gurus Kvadrat – to create your own signature shape.

Once you have your bespoke design sorted, you can then tailor the type of sound you want. Each hexagonal module is either a speaker, amplifier, BeoSound core hub or acoustic damper, so you get to choose the combination that’s right for you. Style and substance.

Form and function aren’t mutually exclusive

TECHNOLOGY


British chef Michael O’Hare is one of the brightest stars of the gastronomic scene. His ability to transform food

into masterpieces has earned him critical acclaim across the country and a Michelin star at his innovative restaurant The Man Behind the Curtain.

O’Hare never set out to become a chef – he studied aeronautical engineering and trained to be a pilot before falling head over heels for gastronomy. With his exquisite attention to detail and imagination, O’Hare has redefined the dining experience, harmoniously combining beauty and substance to deliver dishes that taste as incredible as they look.

“Balancing aesthetics and taste isn’t difficult. No one looks at a Ferrari and thinks that because it looks beautiful, it won’t be fast or pleasurable to drive. It is the same with gastronomy, there is a misconception that →

Famed for his culinary artistry (and rock star hair), Michelin-starred

chef Michael O’Hare talks about creating gastronomic masterpieces

WORDS MONICHA TULLY

Paintingwith food

FOOD

Berkeley Life 37

there needs to be a balance or compromise, but it can be done if you give it the thought it deserves,” he explains.

The Man Behind the Curtain has revolutionised the gastronomic scene in Leeds, and is famed for its completely unique approach to dining. Its astronomical success is largely down to O’Hare’s magical ability to turn the ordinary into something truly extraordinary. For example, a piece of cod is transformed into a Jackson Pollock style painting on the plate, while a jumbo prawn is given a surrealist Salvador Dalí twist.

“There is something particularly specific to this restaurant and the direction that it has found itself going in, in the sense that food can’t look like food here. I’d say that there is a great pleasure in disguising things, which is more of a necessity rather than deliberate,” he says.

The Man Behind the Curtain is an aesthetic playground, designed to seduce all of your senses. The attention to detail throughout is magnificent; everything serves a purpose and is designed to delight and surprise. The restaurant is monochromatic with decadent black and white marble, polished plaster and the walls are adorned with contemporary artworks. It even has a signature scent; it is an ode to a perfect summer day, with hints of suntan lotion, sea-salt skin and sand.

MATTER OF TASTEO’Hare’s secret to success is shunning what is traditionally acceptable and following his own rulebook. The result of this is a place that will enthral you, where you can always expect the unexpected. A constantly changing menu allows diners to discover the mystery of a new imaginative dish, time and time again.

“I always want to do things in a way that I felt happy doing them. I think a lot of chefs have fallen in and out of love with cooking in terms of the way certain kitchens are run. I wanted to have an efficiency that made sense and to cook things that I felt are delicious,” he says.

“The main inspiration for the restaurant came from making notes of the things that I didn’t like rather than the ones I did. However, it’s still something that I’m working on, to get to where we want to be and I guess maybe that’s the true beauty of it, that it never will be.”

Hailed as the rock star of the culinary world, O’Hare is as renowned for his signature punk rock mane as he is his flamboyant food. “The way The Man Behind the Curtain blew up had a lot to do with my haircut and the outlook towards the restaurant, because it wasn’t a deliberate thing to be a ‘punk restaurant’,” he explains. “But I suppose in restaurant terms we probably were, although now I think it’s a lot more refined and a lot more stylistic.”

Like all things, the restaurant has matured over time, but it still remains bold, beautiful and unconventional at heart. This is why diners around the world flock like moths to a flame, falling in love with O’Hare’s vision, courage and culinary flair.

“We are five years old now, when we started out we quickly realised that when a menu has a perfect flow to it, it becomes almost like a movie. You have to create a balance and flow in terms of the food so that it all makes sense,” he explains.

“The Man Behind The Curtain is more than a restaurant for me. It is where I am able to express myself with flavour and aesthetic. The cuisine is my couture, bold in flavour with inspiration from around the world. Brutalist in design, yet fun.”

“ When a menu has a perfect f low to it, it becomes almost

like a movie”

1 Txangurro, Quail’s Egg

2 XO Slider

3 Poppadom, Pickle Tray

4 From Dali to Delhi

5 Sea Urchin, Hot and Sour

6 Octopus, Lemon, Caper, Parsley

7 Spider Crab, Cinders, Egg

8 Chocolate, Violet,

Potato Custard

9 Crispy Dahl, Lime Yoghurt

10 Saltfish and Ackee

11 Emancipation, Cod Loin, Dashi, Ink

12 Pigeon, Rhubarb Hoi Sin

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Reed-fringed wetlands at Kidbrooke Village provide habitats for wildlife

With wetlands and plenty of green space, Kidbrooke Village has been

designed to be a nature haven

WORDS ILANA HARRIS

Wild at heart

ENVIRONMENT

Imagine colourful butterflies fluttering in the long grass, wildflowers swaying in the wind, and wading birds fishing in the stream – all

on your doorstep. That’s the vision for Kidbrooke Village, near Blackheath, in south-east London, which is set among 136 acres of open space including parkland, meadows and wetlands.

High-quality green space has been a key feature of the Kidbrooke Village concept from the outset in order to create a ‘village green’ feel and give people areas to relax and congregate. Cator Park was designed with this in mind. But, as well as providing pleasant surroundings, Berkeley wanted the landscaping to offer ecological benefits to increase biodiversity in the area.

‘Biodiversity’ may sound like some abstract scientific concept, but it is one of the key environmental challenges of our time and affects us all. Having a variety of wildlife and plants is necessary to support the healthy ecosystems that people rely on to provide food, water, fertile soil, medicines, and protect us from climate change.

In 2016, Berkeley became the first UK developer to make a commitment to achieve a net biodiversity gain on every new site, which means habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were before. (In 2019, the government mandated that all new developments must deliver an overall increase in biodiversity.) →


FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT KIDBROOKE

VILLAGE, SEE OUR PORTFOLIO p72-85

“The scale of the park and vicinity to other green spaces presented a great chance to deliver a range of habitats that could help the creation of a wildlife corridor in south-east London,” says Giorgia Franco, head of sustainability at Berkeley Homes (East Thames).

“It also offered an opportunity to help city dwellers reconnect with nature and for children to learn about the natural world around them.” This chimes with recent studies that show spending time in parks and around nature can help people’s health and wellbeing.

WILDLIFE FRIENDLY Cator Park – which connects two existing local nature reserves – has large areas deliberately left to grow wild so they can support more natural life. A chalk stream meanders beside open lawn and there are reed-fringed wetland areas, which also form part of the sustainable drainage strategy for the site. Franco says these areas are designed to offer a diverse mix of habitats, to encourage different species of flora and fauna to thrive in a relatively small area.

Berkeley has worked closely with the London Wildlife Trust, who suggested plants, such as berry-bearing shrubs and native wildflowers, and relaxing mowing regimes around the edge of the wetlands to provide shelter and encourage vegetation. The Trust is also involved in running regular community engagement and volunteering events.

Made up of four distinct neighbourhoods, Kidbrooke Village is full of design details to help blur the boundaries between the buildings and surroundings. Birch House, in The Village Centre, has a landscaped terrace and is clad in white brick with recessed areas covered in reflective panels, offering a visual link to the silver birch tree-lined paths.

It is still too early to measure the full impact on wildlife as the works are still ongoing, but last spring Cator Park looked amazing in full bloom, herons have been spotted in the chalk stream and peregrine falcons have made themselves at home at Birch House.

A chance to enjoy the great outdoors

in Cator ParkWetland areas in Kidbrooke Village

ENVIRONMENT


Take an unforgettable voyage to the unspoilt Antarctic

Ice breakerFollow in the footsteps of Captain Scott

and explore the extraordinary icy waters of the Antarctic on a

superyacht. Come face to face with gigantic glaciers and jagged icebergs in one of the world’s most isolated places. And spot penguins, leopard seals and sea lions. At Cape Evans, you’ll find Scott’s Hut on Ross Island, the base of the British expedition in 1911-13, which is frozen in time.

This is one of the many exciting voyages you can undertake on Sea Hawk, a 103m superyacht, designed to cruise to the most demanding environments in the world. All in the lap of luxury, of course – it offers an expansive spa suite, helicopter hangar and tailor-made interiors.

With a Polar Class 6 rating, its ice-friendly, reinforced hull is able to push smaller pieces of ice out of the way and break through 80cm-thick new ice.

It is built by Hawk Yachts, which is disrupting the industry with a range of high-end yachts made for year-round travel in hot or cold climates, and a mission of making yachts a viable investment.

So set your horizons further than the Med. A Polar expedition is in reach.

EXPEDITION


A home with heritage There can’t be many sites in the Greater

London area that can boast a fuller history of royal hunts, celebrity dinner

parties and British military intelligence gathering than Trent Park.

Today, this charming mansion in north London is the centrepiece of a 413-acre country park where Berkeley is building a collection of traditionally designed homes. And the Grade II-listed house is being lovingly restored into one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with a museum – due to open in 2022 – celebrating the extraordinary heritage in which the building is steeped.

The most famous episode in Trent Park’s illustrious past is the part it played in helping the Allies win World War II when it was requisitioned by the War Office for the secret British intelligence unit MI9.

The ‘secret listeners’ at Trent Park, eavesdropping on German commanders kept as prisoners of war there, alerted the Allies to the development of the V1 and V2 rockets and Hitler’s drive to develop an atomic bomb. Helen Fry, historian and author of The Walls Have Ears: The Greatest Intelligence Operation of WWII, says: “Churchill said Trent Park afforded us a unique insight into the enemy’s mindset. If it wasn’t for this bugging operation, we might not have won the war.”

On 26 May 1943, a senior German officer General Hans-Jürgen von Arnim was overheard by British intelligence remarking: “I wonder how the development of those rockets will turn out. You don’t hear anything more about them…” Realising that the German generals were close to developing the first long-range ballistic missile, now known as V2, the Royal Air Force bombed the research centre on the north German coast where these rockets were being developed, significantly delaying the launch of the so-called ‘retribution weapon’.

At Trent Park, secrets were not spilled during interrogation, they were revealed when the German commanders were talking to each other in the ‘M rooms’ (the M stood for microphones) or at garden parties when they gossiped away, oblivious to the fact that many of the British staff – notably Colonel Thomas Joseph Kendrick, who ran the intelligence operation – could speak German.

At Trent Park, he lulled the high-ranking prisoners into a false sense of security. Lunch

at Simpson’s in the Strand, suits made by a Savile Row tailor and the convivial company of an aristocrat Lord Aberfeldy (in reality, intelligence officer Ian Thomson Munro) – who said King George VI had asked him to look after them – were all part of the programme. (The authorities did, though, refuse to give prisoners parole so they could go pheasant shooting.) One German officer felt he had ended up in an earthly paradise, noting in his diary: “Great lawns with marble statues, glorious woodland with cedars and great oaks. A golf course, large swimming pool, a fine pond with wild duck.”

What the prisoners didn’t know is that every part of their accommodation – the lampshades, plant pots, even the billiard table – were bugged. Caught on microphone, their conversations were recorded on vinyl, played on a

gramophone and transcribed by 100 ‘secret listeners’, many of whom were anti-Nazi Germans or German Jews. They produced more than 100,000 transcripts.

ROYAL CONNECTIONSBritish intelligence officers were hunting for secrets at Trent Park during World War II, but the story of the building itself begins with a hunt for fallow deer. Trent

Park is situated in Enfield Chase, a landscape of rolling meadows and ancient woodlands. After the Norman conquest, this was stocked with fallow deer and turned into a hunting park before passing, through marriage, into royal ownership. In 1777, George III divided it up into lots, leasing one to his doctor Sir Richard Jebb, who had saved the life of the Duke of Gloucester. The Italian town where the King’s younger brother had fallen ill was called Trento and inspired the name Trent Place, the compact brick villa Jebb had built. (It was renamed Trent Park in the 19th century.)

Sixty years later, the villa came up for auction. Family legend suggests that David Bevan, a Quaker and a director of the bank that became Barclays, fell asleep at the sale, and woke to find he had paid £25,586 for the property (£2.9 million in today’s money) – a nod having been →

Royal origins, society parties and secret intelligence operations – we trace Trent Park’s rich history

WORDS PAUL SIMPSON

HISTORY

“If it wasn’t for thisbugging operation,we might not have

won the war”

Trent Park, 1934 by Rex Whistler

46 Berkeley Life

Opposite, clockwise from top: Trent Park during World War II; German generals relaxing in the grounds; the future Queen Elizabeth II with her sister Princess Margaret on the Trent Park tennis court; one of the ‘secret listeners’ during the war; Sir Winston Churchill at Trent Park; British spymaster Colonel Thomas Joseph Kendrick

Left: elegant interiors of new homes at Trent Park

interpreted as a bid. His grandson Francis sold it to politician and businessman Sir Edward Sassoon, who had married into another great banking dynasty, the Rothschilds.

When Edward died in 1912, his son Philip inherited the estate, completely revamped the house and hired Norah Lindsay to redesign the gardens. (Her ideas have heavily influenced John Murdock, who has planned the landscaping for Berkeley.) Philip planted a million daffodil bulbs that became known as the famous Daffodil Lawn. During the 1920s and 1930s, Trent Park was the setting for

lavish summer parties to which everyone who was anyone was desperate to be invited.

STAR-STUDDED PARTIESIn Charmed Life, Damian Collins’ biography of Philip, these events are described much like Jay Gatsby’s parties in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel. “At dawn, long before the guests arrive, a cavalcade of horse-drawn carts makes the 14-mile journey from the flower market at Covent Garden to the gates of the Trent Park estate. Legions of gardeners are waiting to receive its colourful potted cargo ready for immediate planting, while the staff collect enough azaleas, roses and lilies to fill every room in the house,” Collins writes. “By noon, there is a new procession of Rolls-Royces arriving and departing in rapid succession. Children and their parents line the route, hoping to catch a glimpse of a royal prince or a Hollywood star.”

Among the celebrities the public could have spotted were Charlie Chaplin, Noel Coward, Sir Winston Churchill and George Bernard Shaw. They would have missed the Prince of Wales, the future Edward VIII, who preferred to fly in using Trent Park’s own landing strip, before playing golf on Philip’s private course with American champion Walter Hagen. Queen Elizabeth II visited there as a child too, enjoying the gardens and tennis court.

Philip’s life may have been charmed but it was also short. He was just 50 when he died of complications from flu, on 5 June 1939.

After its crucial role in World War II, Trent Park became a place of education, first as a teacher training college in 1947, and then from 1974 to 2012 as part of Middlesex University. Now with Berkeley’s vision to restore where possible the original buildings on the estate, as well as create new homes, Trent Park is ready to open a new chapter in its history.

HISTORY

Berkeley Life 47

“Great lawns with marble statues, glorious woodland with cedars and oaks… ”

New apartment terraces with parkland views

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TRENT PARK, SEE OUR

PORTFOLIO p72-85

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Choosing and buying original artworks is now far less intimidating – and more affordable – thanks to a new generation of galleries that are shaking up the sector

WORDS ALISON KROG

“We want people to be able to take it home and put it on their wall and enjoy it. Art has to be accessible”

Madonna by Ryan Hewett, Unit London

ART REVOLUTION


Jutting out defiantly on Hanover Square – opposite the lofty Blain|Southern Gallery and just a stone’s throw from

auction house Sotheby’s – you’ll find Unit London. It’s one of the art industry’s most exciting challenger brands. But co-founder Joe Kennedy gets more of a kick from being just around the corner from Apple’s Regent Street flagship store than its proximity to such illustrious Mayfair neighbours.

Just five years ago, Kennedy and his long-time friend Jonny Burt set out to change the art world. It’s a journey that has transported “two kids with laptops” from a pop-up space in a vacant Chiswick charity shop to two enviable central London locations (a Soho venue operates for mainly private events), supported by a website that attracts around five million impressions per week.

Not bad for a couple of wannabe artists, who aged 22, concluded that the only way to get their work to market would be to create their own showcase. “We had never trained at an auction house; we had never worked in a gallery,” says Kennedy. “We were outsiders to the industry looking in – and we were

walls and ceiling of this former Citibank branch, all pretensions have been stripped away. A concrete block serves as a front desk behind which the reception team sit perched on stools ready to jump down and show browsers and buyers alike around the current exhibition.

INSTA ARTBut you don’t have to enter the building to feel welcomed into the art world. Instagram has been core to the gallery’s success. “We communicate with our audience every day – trying to engage with people around the world who want to learn about, collect and enjoy the cultural output of the artists that we show,” says Kennedy. “We understand that people who aren’t in the industry might be intimidated by the thought of talking to a gallery. But within five minutes of finding our page, they can start that journey of educating themselves.

“Selling art was never really what we set out to do. It was more about creating amazing experiences and putting on shows that we would be really proud of. But obviously →

frustrated at how it was set up. For a long time, the big galleries have been predicated on selling an idea of elitism. It’s not about the cultural product of the artist. It’s much more about access to a club – if you buy work from us you can get invited to our parties and be part of our crowd,” he adds.

“For us that was an injustice. Incredibly talented artists weren’t getting the chance to show their work because they didn’t know the right people or go to the right schools. So we thought why don’t we turn that on its head and focus purely on talent and originality as the only criteria for letting artists show in our gallery. The idea was to build the biggest platform we possibly could to be able to tell those artists’ stories to the world and engage the public with their work.”

Great news for artists such as Jake Wood-Evans, who put faith in the duo’s vision from the beginning, and whose artwork is now sought after by collectors around the world. Even better for first-time art buyers, as Unit London has overturned traditional expectations – and trepidations – of walking into a Mayfair gallery. Like the

Disrupting the art world:Jonny Burt (left) and Joe Kennedy, founders of Unit London

The Garden by Ryan Hewett, Unit London

By Nadine Shaban, The Koppel Project Hive

“You have to trust the people you are buying the work from – the gallery

or the dealer – implicitly”

ART REVOLUTION


what we have to do now is sell art to make that doable.”

And although Unit London’s price range can reach six-figure heights, its entry-level portfolio of limited-edition prints start at around £200. “We want people to be able to take it home and put it on their wall and enjoy it. Art shouldn’t just be reserved for people with money. It has to be democratic and it has to be accessible,” Kennedy says.

His advice for first-time buyers: “You have to trust the people you are buying the work from – the gallery or the dealer – implicitly, because if you believe that they are going to be on a path to something much bigger, then the artists they are working with are going to be on that same path as well.”

COMMUNAL STUDIOS Above a record shop in Poland Street, in the heart of Soho, another young artspace disrupting expectations with its unconventional approach is The Koppel Project Central.

As well as a gallery, it offers 50 studios, spread over four floors, housing a hotbed

The gallery has a changing roster of exhibitions throughout the year. “Our main focus is finding artists who, perhaps, haven’t had a chance to exhibit widely, but we think their work is really promising. Or artwork that is talking about something really important in a way that we hadn’t thought about before,” she says.

And if you’re still not sure art is your ‘thing’, Marcus-Monks’ advice is unequivocal. “Just come in and talk to us. We are not trying to scare you – we love what we do, and we want to tell you about it. But you have to come in and ask.”

Should you be tempted to buy a piece of work, your journey into the world of art doesn’t stop when you hang it on the wall. “If you absolutely love the piece, it’s likely you will tell every single person you know how much you love this artist,” she says. “Keep promoting that artist, keep following their career, go to their exhibitions, see who else they are showing with. At the end of the day, if it doesn’t become a million-pound piece of artwork, as long as you love it, you are going to be happy with that purchase.”

of established, emerging and undiscovered creative talents – from photographers, painters and sculptors to fashion and jewellery designers.

“We fill unused spaces with artists while buildings are in transition,” explains gallery and studio director Rebecca Marcus-Monks. A registered charity, the organisation launched its first studios in June 2016 in Holborn (The Koppel Project Hive), which still offers space for around 70 artists.

There are ‘Open Studios’ events multiple times a year across both locations where the public can meet the artists and buy their work directly.

“The studios are structured like an art school – it’s very communal,” says Marcus-Monks. “We don’t take a cut from any of the sales that come out of the studios, so the artists can keep prices lower and help fund their studios. And we try to keep the artworks affordable – typically under £5,000. We almost never go over £10,000 because we want people to be able to buy work, especially if they are younger or are just gaining an interest in art.”‘Grid for Sophie Germain’ 2 – 491 by Moyra Derby, The Koppel Project Central

Holborn 7 by Christopher Farrell, The Koppel Project Hive

Portrait of a Woman in Blue Silk, After Reynolds by Jake Wood-Evans, Unit London

“Even if it doesn’t become a million-pound piece of artwork, as long as you love it, you are

going to be happy with that purchase”

ART REVOLUTION


Classic & Sports Car’s Martin Port tells you how to make an investment that gets your heart racing

How to buy a classic car

Standing out from the crowd on today’s busy roads isn’t necessarily easy. If you want to avoid joining the middle lane

silver and greys of mass production, you either have to splash the cash on one of the current crop of concept-car-inspired moderns, or carry out a complete U-turn and venture into a brave new world – that of classic car ownership.

That may feel like a daunting prospect; you don’t have to look very far to find tales of serial breakdowns, roadside catastrophes and investments gone bad, but it doesn’t have to be that way with just a little advice.

If you choose wisely and look after it, even the average classic car will at least maintain its value, and most will climb (although to enthusiasts the word ‘investment’ is something best said with hushed voices). →

MOTORING

PHOTOGRAPHY AMY SHORE

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MOTORING

The first step is to decide what it is you want: are you looking for something to use on a daily basis to replace your modern, or is this to be a bit of weekend fun? What sort of journeys do you plan to do in it? Motorway slogs or B-road pottering? Remember, there are no hard and fast rules, but identifying how you intend to use your classic car will definitely help you choose the right one.

A Jensen Interceptor may sound fantastic and look impressive as you carry out the school run before rushing off to your first meeting of the day, but that 6.3-litre V8 could be a bit thirstier than the modern hybrid you might be used to. And you could well struggle to accept your mpg regularly being in single figures. Similarly, a Series Land Rover might look perfectly at home in the Goodwood Revival car park or at the village fete, but while it can be done, there is nothing romantic about commuting along the M4 being hassled by articulated lorries at 55mph.

However, in comparison, something like a humble MGB can offer open-top classic motoring without too much outlay – both in terms of buying a decent example and running costs. Crucially, it will get you in the driving seat of something classic, stylish and rewarding to own.

It’s not all about being sensible though; what turned you on to the idea of classic ownership in the first place? If your aspirations soar higher than the quintessential English roadster, then you might find yourself enthusing

over a bona fide supercar such as a Ferrari F40 or Pagani Zonda. Maybe something with film star status such as a Bond-esque Aston Martin DB5 or Lamborghini Miura? Ultimately, there is no point buying something that doesn’t get your heart pounding.

Once you’ve decided what to buy, there’s the challenge of actually finding it. Arguably, the safest option is to buy from a well-respected dealer. Look for a marque specialist and start talking to them. Discuss what you want, what your budget is, what your expectations are, and they will hopefully sell you the keys to something that will deliver, with the added bonus of their after-sales support.

Buying privately means you can (theoretically) get a great deal on your dream classic, but this is where your homework will pay dividends. There is no shortage of books, websites, owners’ clubs and forums that can be used to research any particular issues with each marque and model – rot spots, mechanical weak points, common running problems. They can all be used to diagnose existing problems that haven’t been sorted, but there is nothing quite like taking an expert with you. If you get in touch with some of the clubs and forums, chances are there will be someone in the area that will give up an hour or so in exchange for a pub lunch to look at the potential car.

You can also buy at one of the many classic vehicle auctions now held regularly in the UK. The lure of a bargain can be hard

to resist, but once again, this can be a minefield. You need to have someone with you that knows what to look for, as although you can have a good look around the car, chances are you won’t be able to take it for a test drive and start pulling up carpets to check for the dreaded rust. As a basic rule, if it’s too good to be true in terms of price, then it probably is.

When you’ve finally bought your ‘new’ car, you will, of course, need to insure it. Forget the mainstream insurers as many won’t touch anything of an age, but fortunately there are plenty of specialist insurers that advertise their wares in the back of the various classic car magazines. You may well find yourself surprised at just how cheaply you can insure your classic for, particularly if kept in a garage and you agree to cover limited miles (usually around 5,000 or 6,000 per year).

There is also the added saving of free road tax for anything 40 years old and over. Likewise, those classics will also qualify for exemption from the MOT test (with exceptions), though it is always preferable to voluntarily submit them for examination.

So you’re on the road and enjoying the Jaguar E-type you always promised yourself since having the poster on your bedroom wall as a kid. What now? Well the possibilities are endless as the classic car world has never been busier with shows, pub meets, historic rallies, trans-European jaunts and owners’ club outings. But above all, just drive it – classic cars certainly don’t enjoy being holed up in a garage for months on end. Use it, enjoy it, maintain it, and you’ll find that there’s nothing more pleasing than turning heads in a classic vehicle. Happy motoring!

“Above all just drive and enjoy it – classic cars certainly don’t

enjoy being holed up in a garage for months

on end”

This rare 1932 Alfa Romeo Tipo B (P3) Grand Prix racer could set you back a few million pounds…


Enjoy the glinting water at Taplow

Riverside

Living by a river or lake not only offers stunning views and surroundings, it can boost our happiness levels too

WORDS ILANA HARRIS AND CHANTELLE HORTON

WATERSIDE LIVING

CALM WATERS


blue and green space (water and nature) post in the same direction. That time spent in or around water – lakes, rivers and oceans – is good for our cognitive, emotional, psychological, physical and spiritual health.”

He talks about the mildly meditative state, which he calls “blue mind”, that being near, in or on water invokes. Our brains need it more than ever in today’s fast and frenetic world where it’s difficult to switch off.

GO WITH THE FLOWBeing around water is a highly sensory experience. “If you stand next to a rushing waterfall you’ll feel the vibrations in your bones, drift along a boat in a calm lake and the motion will make you sleepy, soak in a hot bath and you’ll feel the tension draining from your muscles,” says Nichols. “These sensations anchor us in the world by giving us a clear indication of our physical position in it. They bring us into the present moment when our thoughts wander.”

If you dream of spending more leisure time on the water, Berkeley’s Taplow Riverside, in Buckinghamshire, is the place for having fun on

to find water was linked to survival. Nowadays finding water to survive is not a concern for as many of us – but we still experience that primal response to seeing, hearing and feeling it.”

Maybe it’s time to bring some “blue mind” moments into your life.

The panoramic views from The Dumont across the river take your breath away. Situated along one of the most famous

stretches of the Thames, you can see the Houses of Parliament and London Eye, and the Shard which is lit by the rising sun in the east. “It’s a ‘wow’ view. It makes people feel part of the city,” says The Dumont’s architect David Walker.

This 30-storey building is the centrepiece of Albert Embankment Plaza by St James, and is part of a trio of new towers – including The Corniche (designed by Foster + Partners) and Merano Residences (created by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners) – all designed to maximise their riverfront setting.

The development may be in the heart of the capital, but its proximity to the Thames helps create a calm, relaxed feeling. Watching the ebb and flow of river life is a remarkably restorative experience. That’s not surprising, as recent research has shown a link between being near water and our wellbeing.

Dr Wallace J Nichols, author of Blue Mind: How Water Makes You Happier, More Connected and Better at What You Do, says: “All studies of

boats. Located along the Thames and Jubilee River, many properties have private moorings. And there’s plenty of green space to enjoy picnics on the water’s edge.

St William’s Elmswater, near Rickmansworth, is situated alongside Elms Lake. Living by the tranquil water offers a sense of serenity, which both energises and relaxes. And the nearby Rickmansworth Aquadrome offers water-skiing, sailing and canoeing.

Water has a tangible effect on our mood. Researchers George MacKerron and Susana Mourato created an app called Mappiness which tracked the subjective wellbeing levels of 22,000 participants in environments in the UK. The results found that people were happier outdoors in nature than in an urban environment, and that the highest increase in happiness in any outdoor environment occurred when people were near water.

So why does it make us feel so good? Nichols explains: “Humans can’t live for more than a week without water. So it’s likely the sense of wellbeing we experience when we’re near it is quite ancient. In evolutionary terms, our ability

“Time spent in or around water is good for our cognitive, emotional,

psychological, physical and spiritual health”

WATERSIDE LIVING

The Dumont offers panoramic views of the River Thames and London’s famous landmarks

Tranquil surroundings: homes by the lake at

Elmswater

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE

DUMONT, TAPLOW RIVERSIDE AND

ELMSWATER, SEE OUR PORTFOLIO p72-85


Enjoy peace and tranquility on the luxury island of Petit St Vincent

Switch off from the modern world at one of these secluded destinations. Your holiday

paradise awaits…

TREASURE ISLAND

YOUR VERY OWN

TRAVEL

WORDS ZOE BIRDSALL

64 Berkeley Life

TRAVEL

GRENADINES

SEYCHELLES

Petit St Vincent

Denis Island

From snorkelling in the crystal clear, magical reefs with turtles, clownfish, parrotfish and rays, to spotting some of

the rarest birds of prey on earth, visitors can become one with nature on Denis Island. Despite being just half an hour’s flight from Mahé, Denis Island, which lies on the northern edge of the Seychelles, feels remote and secluded. Set in the Indian Ocean, the crescent, ringed with pristine white sand and palm trees, offers visitors the chance to really unplug and unwind, with no phone signal or digital television and limited internet in the

Located in the Grenadines, time stands still on Petit St Vincent, a private islet of just 135 acres.

This idyllic destination is made up of forest-covered hills and picture-perfect coral-sand beaches. Most of the time, not a sound can be heard other than waves gently lapping the beaches and birdsong from the trees. For larger groups or special occasions, you can even hire out the whole island, which includes 22 one- and two-bedroom cottages and villas, giving you ultimate privacy. There’s a beachside restaurant if you prefer to dine in company rather than on your villa’s terrace. Relax in the spa or for something a little more energetic, climb the island’s highest point, Marni Hill, for stunning vista sunsets and views across the Grenadines archipelago.

25 villas and cottages. There’s an open wooden lobby and restaurant at the heart of the island, but guests can also choose to dine on the beach while enjoying a spectacular sunset. Explore its 375 acres – none of which is off-limits – on foot, forget about time and enjoy the slow pace of life. The terrain is totally flat and covered in lush vegetation. The owners’ mission to conserve the island and their emphasis on sustainability means delicious, organic food, whether that’s eggs fresh from roaming chickens or the local catch of the day.

Sit back and watch the spectacular sunset on Denis Island

Beach life on Petit St Vincent

Sunrise at Six Senses on Con Son

CON DAO, VIETNAM

Con Son

Con Son is the largest and only inhabited island of the 16 that make up the emerald Con Dao

archipelago off the southern coast of Vietnam. Mostly a protected national and marine park, it is incredibly laid back, and despite feeling a million miles away, is just a short 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City. Con Son offers visitors the opportunity to explore miles of unspoilt sandy beaches, with dramatic jungle-covered mountains and an abundance of wildlife. For an ultra-luxe stay, head to the island’s renowned Six Senses resort. Its 50 villas built from reclaimed teak are spread along a one-mile crescent of pristine private beach, backed by soaring mountains and lush rainforest. Each villa has its own private infinity pool overlooking the shimmering turquoise waters of the South China Sea and there is a superb spa in the resort. With no cars on site, take a bicycle ride or stroll along the beach and listen to nothing but insects buzzing and the rolling waves.

Berkeley Life 65


TRAVEL

TAVEUNI, FIJI

BELIZE

HVALER, NORWAY

Laucala Island

Båtholmen

T he epitome of tropical paradise, private island Laucala, in the South Pacific, features dramatic scenery of lush

rainforest, volcanic mountains, deserted beaches and lively coral reefs. Just a short 50-minute flight from Nadi International Airport, the island covers 7.5 miles with 25 Fijian-style villas on the northern coast, set amid coconut plantations, and a stone’s throw from the sparkling sea. Its unspoiled wilderness gives visitors a chance to see some of the archipelago’s rarest birds, fish and animals, as well as sample some incredibly fresh and flavoursome organic food from local farms. Style and sustainability go hand in hand for the resort, and guests can experience local traditions from the cultural village, one of the last left in Fiji. Get an insight into the traditional music, architecture, arts and crafts such as weaving, carving and Masi art, as well as experiencing the warm hospitality for which Fiji is famous. Rainforest walking tours, golf, jet-skiing, horse riding, kite and windsurfing, fishing and snorkelling are just some of the other activities to keep you busy.

The private island of Båtholmen offers something a little different. Just off the Hvaler archipelago in Norway, this

2.5-acre island houses just one quaint, newly refurbished cabin that feels totally off the grid – ideal for those looking to switch off from the outside world. The cabin can fit up to five guests in two bedrooms (bookings must be made through Airbnb) and offers scenic views in every direction. There is a motor boat included with the rental, meaning you can explore the 800 islands, reefs and islets nearby – a maritime paradise. Try your hand at fishing, a range of water sports or even sunbathing on the rocks, as Hvaler is known to be the municipality with the highest number of sunny days per year in Norway.

Little Peter Oasis

L ittle Peter Oasis offers visitors unparalleled levels of privacy, with just one house on the whole island. Located

eight miles off the coast of Belize, it can be reached by boat or private helicopter. The overwater bungalow sits on stilts offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Caribbean Sea. With a private, 30-foot deep lagoon, guests can take a dip in a protected environment. Alternatively, you’re a 10-minute boat ride from the second largest barrier reef in the world. A personal concierge can organise trips to the nearby Mayan ruins or activities such as rappelling down waterfalls, but with access to kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment and a private chef, you may not wish to leave your private oasis.

Go off grid on the Norwegian island of Båtholmen

Room with a view at Peninsular Villa on Laucala Island

The whole island is yours at Little

Peter Oasis


Former pro cyclist David Millar is rewriting the rules of cycling kit with an iconic range of apparel and innovations that fuse Savile Row style and Tour de France technology

WORDS MARK BAILEY

David Millar has many happy memories of his 18 years as a professional road cyclist, from winning four individual

stages of the Tour de France to claiming two British national cycling titles, but he certainly does not miss the garish Lycra. “I spent my entire professional cycling career dressed as a human billboard,” confesses Millar, 42, referencing the giant sponsorship logos and dazzling colours traditionally worn by elite cycling teams. “After retiring [in 2014] I wanted to wear something subtle and understated. I wanted to create cycling clothing that was designed for riding, not racing, but still with the latest tech.”

Millar’s quest to escape the primary colours and soulless design of traditional cycling apparel coincided with a broader →

PEDALLING FASHION

CYCLING

Former pro cyclist David Millar is on a mission to create high-tech cycling apparel that looks good too


thirst among discerning recreational riders for a more refined style of cycling clothing. The cycling industry is big business, generating £5.4bn for the UK economy each year – three times more than the UK steel industry. And with many affluent riders willing to indulge their passion by purchasing £10,000 bikes and £1,500 wheel sets, Millar knew plenty of other cyclists secretly shared his desire for superior style. So, in 2015 he launched his own cycling brand called CHPT3 to develop high-end cycling apparel and engage in creative collaborations with other companies.

With his debonair style and lifelong interest in culture and design, Millar was always regarded as a cycling aesthete, combining a bohemian instinct for nonconformity with a natural patrician elegance off the bike. And his CHPT3 apparel ooze the same mix of maverick flair and timeless style. “The products are technical at heart and we have used all my knowledge of performance technology as a pro cyclist, but I wanted a different aesthetic and a bit more soul,” he explains. “I like mixing art and fashion because I’m slightly obsessive about cycling aesthetics. So we brought an element of bespoke tailoring to the world of high-performance technical wear.”

STYLE AND SUBSTANCEMillar recruited the help of the architect and designer Richard Pearce and the bespoke tailor Timothy Everest to create an innovative new range that boasts fine fabrics, classic tailoring and intricate detailing, inspired by the sophistication of Savile Row. Some of his CHPT3 jerseys feature darting on the front panels and shaped collars to give them the cut of a formal shirt. The bib-shorts have straps, which deliberately look and feel like braces. The jackets have squarer shoulders and buttoned collars, evoking the look of classic leather biker jackets. And the eye-catching base layers mirror the vibrant lining of a bespoke suit.

But his creations are also built with Tour de France level technology. The jerseys are made with feather-light fabric, which weighs just 50g per square metre; the base layers feature a hydrophilic layer to wick away sweat; the bib-shorts have a multi-panel construction for a more comfortable fit; and the jackets are made from cutting-edge windproof materials.

POSITIVE PLACE By blending fashion, art, innovation and technology, Millar – who lives in Girona, Spain, with his wife, Nicole, and their three children, Archibald, Harvey, and Maxine – hopes his brand can represent what he calls the vital ‘third space’, separate from work and family life, where people can escape in pursuit of physical fitness and mental relaxation.

“The brand has morphed a bit in the last couple of years with my own personal changes and the way I’m starting to see cycling differently,” he explains. “When it was created, the name CHPT3 simply signified the next chapter of my life after cycling, but since retiring I have noticed we all look for this third space, outside of our busy everyday lives, which we dedicate to sport. It’s a really positive place where we can go to enjoy a little time to ourselves and that’s what I want CHPT3 to represent.”

Millar was never alone in his search for upmarket cycling style. The London brand Rapha has been releasing chic cycling clothing since 2004. The Nice-based Café du Cycliste creates sleek apparel laced with Gallic flair. And the Tokyo firm Pedal Ed has released a range of functional urban designs. But Millar has gone in search of innovative collaborations, working with cycle experts Fabric to create a light carbon saddle inspired by aerospace design processes; teaming up with British brand Brompton to build a stylishly stripped-back commuter bike; and joining forces with Swedish company POC to create an aerodynamic helmet.

“We make products but I want CHPT3 to be something much bigger than that and to represent a new way to look at the sport,” concludes Millar. “We have collaborations with exciting brands, but we also do quirky stuff like tube socks inspired by my BMX days. All the products are a reflection of my technical background, but also my absolute mishmash of a life. I have lived in six different countries and seen so many different cultures, and it all comes together in what we do. I view cycling differently – and I think other people do too.”

“I like mixing art and fashion because I’m

slightly obsessive about cycling aesthetics”

Developed with Castelli, the CHPT3

Girona collection pays homage to Millar’s

adopted hometown

CYCLING

“We all look for this third space, outside of

our busy everyday lives, which we

dedicate to sport. It’s a really positive place where we can go to enjoy a little time

to ourselves”

PORTFOLIO:WHERE TO FIND USBerkeley creates exceptional homes and communities across London, Birmingham and the South of England


Portfolio

We focus all our efforts on creating

beautiful homes and amazing places in which to live, work

and relax

Creating communities

Built on respect

Green spaces for everyone

Berkeley is no ordinary housebuilder. For over 40 years, we have applied our knowledge and skills to create strong, successful communities. Our heritage and longevity in the market are founded on a total commitment to excellence in everything we do.

Respect for our customers is at the heart of every decision we make. Before a single plan is drawn up, we ensure we understand what they want and need to enjoy a meaningful lifestyle. Our thinking goes far beyond the bricks and mortar.

We believe in creating public spaces that everyone can use and enjoy. Access to green spaces in urban environments has a long-term positive impact on people’s wellbeing. That’s why open parkland and landscaped gardens are an intrinsic element of Berkeley developments.

LONDONWe provide the ultimate choice of homes throughout London, a market that we know and understand. We deliver new places which are socially, environmentally and economically successful


Portfolio / London Portfolio / London

Filmworks 1

Ealing, W5 – by St GeorgeRetaining the historic façade of the original art deco cinema, Filmworks will welcome a mix of new homes, alongside a cinema, restaurants and bars. Crossrail will further enhance the already excellent transport links.

Availability Manhattan, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £599,950Contact 020 3944 3154 • filmworks-ealing.co.uk

Richmond Chase 2

Richmond, TW10 – by BerkeleySet against a backdrop of the renowned Richmond Park, Richmond Chase is a collection of homes that offers sophisticated family living, within easy reach of central London just 30 minutes away*.

Availability 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £840,000Contact 020 3797 0629 • richmond-chase.co.uk

Royal Exchange 3

Kingston upon Thames, KT1 – by St GeorgeRoyal Exchange occupies an enviable location with the River Thames, Hampton Court and Bushy Park on its doorstep. The development includes 295 contemporary new apartments, and two former historical buildings.

Availability Manhattan, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom contemporary apartmentsPrices from £480,000Contact 020 3944 3664 • royalexchangekingston.co.uk

The Mansions 4

Wimbledon, SW20 – by BerkeleyThe Mansions is set within the exclusive Wimbledon HillPark development. Located within parkland and inspiredby London’s iconic mansion blocks, this stylish development offers a private concierge, residents’ gymnasium and private cinema.

Availability 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £660,000Contact 020 3944 3345 • themansions.co.uk

Grand Union 5

Wembley, HA0 – by St GeorgeA sense of community will be at the heart of Grand Union. The vision for this 22-acre development is to reconnect the local area with the Grand Union Canal and the River Brent. The regeneration of this site will provide new homes, employment space and a community centre.

Availability Manhattan, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £372,000Contact 020 3944 3338 • grandunion.uk

Beaufort Park 6

Hendon, NW9 – by St GeorgeBeaufort Park is a vibrant new community in north-west London, providing high-quality homes. Residents can enjoy health and fitness facilities and landscaped gardens, all with the convenience of nearby shops and bars.

Availability Studios, manhattan, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £402,450Contact 020 3811 2701 • beaufortpark.co.uk

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Sovereign Court 7

Hammersmith, W6 – by St GeorgeContemporary, urban-inspired 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, penthouses and Villas set amidst landscaped courtyards. Located only a short walk to Hammersmith stations and close to Kensington, Fulham and Chiswick.

Availability 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, penthouses and VillasPrices from £924,950Contact 020 3944 2399 • sovereign-court.com

White City Living 9

White City, W12 – by St JamesWhite City Living is creating a new neighbourhood of over 1,800 new homes, set amongst 8 acres of landscaping. White City and Wood Lane underground stations are at the entrance to the development.

Availability Suites, 1, 2 and 3 bed apartments and penthousesPrices from £798,000Contact 020 3797 0877 • whitecityliving.co.uk

Fulham Reach 8

Hammersmith, W6 – by St GeorgeAn award-winning development, Fulham Reach is perfectly located on one of the most dramatic stretches of the River Thames with views that stretch across to Hammersmith Bridge and beyond. Set in landscaped gardens next to a sweeping riverside promenade.

Availability 2 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £1,225,000Contact 020 3797 0676 • fulhamreach.co.uk

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HARROW

MILL HILL

HIGHGATE

HACKNEY

WOOLWICH

GREENWICH

BLACKHEATH

CHISLEHURST

CLAPHAM

CROYDON

WIMBLEDON

RICHMONDPARK

KINGSTONUPON

THAMES

RICHMOND

TWICKENHAM

WEST DRAYTON

ACTON

ISLINGTON

TRENT PARK

HAMPSTEAD

WEST END

MAYFAIRKENSINGTON

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

CHELSEA

BATTERSEA

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Rail Station

Underground Station

DLR Station

Crossrail Station

Crossrail Line

TowerHill

London Bridge

Blackfriars Tower Gateway

King’s CrossSt Pancras

Romford

PaddingtonEast Acton

Acton Central

Hornsey

Ealing Broadway

Stonebridge Park

West Drayton

Heathrow Airport

London City Airport

Kew Bridge

Hammersmith

Kingston

Fulham Broadway

ParsonsGreen

ImperialWharf

Liverpool Street

Denmark Hill

Battersea Park

Vauxhall

Pimlico

VictoriaWaterloo

Charing Cross

Ladywell

Lewisham

BowRoad

CanaryWharf

BowChurch

WoolwichArsenal

Clapham Junction

Wandsworth Town

Wimbledon

Raynes Park

Manor House

Colindale

Oakwood


Portfolio / London Portfolio / London

OUR VISIONBerkeley’s vision is to be “a world-class business, defined by the quality of the places we create, generating long-term value and having a positive impact on society”.

The drive and passion behind Our Vision extends far beyond housebuilding. It touches many aspects of society and the environment, and ensures that our work has a positive impact, now and in the future.

To make sure we deliver Our Vision, we have five areas of strategic focus: Customers, Homes, Places, Operations and Our People.

By focusing on these areas and by being dedicated to running our business considerately and sustainably, Berkeley ensures that we continue to maintain excellent customer service standards, whilst delivering high-quality homes with low environmental impact, and places which encourage people’s wellbeing and where communities can thrive.

We recognise that the skills, knowledge and dedication of our people, alongside the efficient management of our operations, are fundamental to the ongoing success of our business.

We set commitments every two years to help drive the business towards being world-class.

You can find out more about Our Vision, including our commitments and prior performance at:berkeleygroup.co.uk/about-us/our-vision

Kensington Row 10

Kensington, W14 – by St EdwardOur final collection at Kensington Row offers spacious and beautifully crafted apartments and penthouses – some of the finest new homes available. With world-class leisure facilities, these homes are all ready to move into today.

Availability 2 and 4 bedroom apartments and 4 bedroom penthouse Prices from £1,905,000Contact 020 3944 2167 • kensingtonrow.com

Royal Warwick Square 11 Kensington, W14 – by St EdwardRoyal Warwick Square benefits from bespoke interior design and luxurious leisure facilities. A tranquil garden square sits at the heart of this central London development.

Availability 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £849,950Contact 020 3797 0263 • royalwarwicksquare.co.uk

9 Millbank 15

Westminster, SW1P – by St EdwardOn the banks of the River Thames, 9 Millbank is Grade II listed with panoramic views across London’s skyline. Located just a short stroll from the Houses of Parliament, this new residential address encapsulates British luxury.

Availability 1, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £1,715,000Contact 020 3797 0623 • 9millbank.com

The Dumont 16

Albert Embankment, SE1 – by St JamesWith enviable views of the London skyline, The Dumont completes the St James trio of buildings along the regenerated Albert Embankment, on the south bank of the River Thames.

Availability 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 4 bedroom penthouses Prices from £6,950,000Contact 020 3944 0674 • thedumont.co.uk

Chelsea Creek 12

Fulham, SW6 – by St GeorgeChelsea Creek brings a European style of waterside living to central London with tree-lined avenues and canals. Located between the King’s Road in Chelsea and the River Thames with fast access into the City from Imperial Wharf station.

Availability A completed collection of 1 and 2 bedroom homes Prices from £840,000Contact 020 3811 0539 • chelseacreek.co.uk

Prince of Wales Drive 13

Battersea, SW11 – by St WilliamSet in 2.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, Prince of Wales Drive is a contemporary collection of spacious apartments. Ideally located just moments from Battersea Park, a short walk to two overground rail stations and a mile from Sloane Square and Chelsea.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments Prices from £700,000Contact 020 3797 0312 • princeofwalesdrive.co.uk

Oval Village 17

Vauxhall, SE11 – by BerkeleyOval Village is a new kind of neighbourhood with community at its heart. A short walk from the historic Kia Oval cricket ground, this collection of apartments has all the charm, character and community of English village life, without losing the buzz of the city.

Availability Manhattan, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £632,000 Contact 020 3773 3438 • ovalvillage.co.uk

One Blackfriars 18

Blackfriars, SE1 – by St GeorgeOne Blackfriars is an impressive and modern sculptural addition to the skyline of central London. Seated at the cultural heart of the South Bank, the building offers buyers a truly luxurious lifestyle with exquisite interiors and incredible views across the River Thames.

Availability 3 bedroom apartments and suitesPrices from POAContact 020 3797 0669 • oneblackfriars.co.uk

West End Gate 14

Marylebone, W2 – by BerkeleySituated moments from Marylebone, West End Gate is a collection of beautifully crafted apartments and penthouses, set amongst secluded gardens. Residents’ facilities include a cinema, private dining room and pool.

Availability Manhattan, 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £645,000Contact 020 3944 3871 • westendgate.co.uk

250 City Road 19

Islington, EC1V – by BerkeleySituated between Angel and Old Street, 250 City Road is within walking distance of the Financial and Tech districts. It will encompass 954 homes, just under 2 acres of WiFi-enabled green spaces, retail outlets and workspaces.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £880,000Contact 020 3811 0709 • 250cityroad.co.uk

Woodberry Down 20

Finsbury Park, N4 – by BerkeleyWoodberry Down will comprise 5,500 new homes. Set across 64 acres, including a nature reserve and a sailing lake. Located just 8 minutes from King’s Cross* and 20 minutes* from the City from Manor House underground station and Stamford Hill overground station.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £540,000Contact 020 3797 0924 • woodberry-down.co.uk

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Trent Park 21

Enfield, EN4 – by BerkeleyA countryside location in north London. The development will comprise over 270 newly built and carefully restored homes. The centrepiece is the Grade II listed mansion house and Daffodil Lawn.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 4 and 5 bedroom houses Price from £575,000Contact 020 3797 6989 • trent-park.co.uk

The Cottonworks 22

Highbury, N7 – by St WilliamThe Cottonworks will provide 22 private one and two bedroom apartments together with a mix of commercial space on the ground floor. The scheme is conveniently located on Seven Sisters Road and just 0.5 miles from Finsbury Park underground and overground stations.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £440,000Contact 020 3944 2869 • thecottonworks.co.uk

Clarendon 23

Hornsey, N8 – By St WilliamClarendon combines over 1,700 apartments with extensive business, retail and community space. It is close to four stations, offering easy access to the West End and City and offers a central public square.

Availability Phase 1 – Hornsey Park Place Suites, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments Prices from £362,500Contact 020 3944 3479 • clarendonn8.co.uk

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Wapping, E1W – by St GeorgeSituated in the heart of Wapping, just moments from Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and the City, London Dock features 1,800 high specification new homes set amongst 7.5 acres of beautifully landscaped squares, promenades, shops, bars and restaurants.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £890,000Contact 020 3797 6907 • londondock.co.uk


Portfolio / London Portfolio / Beyond London

Forbury 26

Blackheath, SE13 – by BerkeleyLocated in Blackheath, one of London’s thriving villages, Forbury is a collection of apartments and villas, within walking distance of the village and the station, with connections into London Bridge in just 12 minutes*.

Availability 3 bedroom apartment and 4 bedroom villasPrices from £845,000Contact 020 3944 3833 • forbury-blackheath.co.uk

Kidbrooke Village 27

Kidbrooke, SE3 – by BerkeleyLocated in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Kidbrooke Village offers 130 acres of parkland and open space. Since 2010 prices at the award-winning destination have more than doubled.

Availability Manhattan 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses Prices from £370,000Contact 020 3944 3764 • kidbrookevillage.co.uk

Royal Arsenal 28

RiversideWoolwich, SE18 – by BerkeleySituated on the banks of the River Thames. Since 2009 capital values at the destination have more than doubled.

Availability Manhattan Suites, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 2 and 3 bedroom penthouses Prices from £402,500Contact 020 3944 2216 • royalarsenalriverside.co.uk

King’s Road Park 29

Fulham, SW6 – by St WilliamSituated just 60 metres from the King’s Road and close to the River Thames. With world-class residents’ facilities and set within six acres of beautiful landscaping, including a new public park, square and residents’ garden.

Availability Suites, 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and penthousesPrices from £790,000Contact 020 3944 3555 • Kingsroadparksw6.co.uk*

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We offer a variety of homes across Birmingham and the South of England in some of the most sought after areas, still within easy reach of central London

BEYONDLONDON

The Berkeley Group is made up of six autonomous companies: Berkeley, St Edward, St George, St James, St Joseph and St William. All are devoted to the same ideals; creating new homes, mixed-use and commercial developments of unrivalled quality, always underpinned by concepts of sustainability, community and regeneration.

Established in 1976, Berkeley is the largest division within the Group, operating within London and the South of England. It delivers a diverse range of projects from large regeneration sites with 4,000 new homes to specialist projects such as the Crossrail station at Royal Arsenal Riverside.

Established as a joint venture company co-owned by the Berkeley Group and Prudential Assurance Company. The powerful combination of the two companies’ strengths and complementary skills provides a strong vehicle for delivering unique residentially led developments.

Specialises in high-quality mixed-use sustainable regeneration, in central London, transforming large areas of brownfield land, reviving the City landscape and creating thriving new destinations.

Established in 1996, originally as a joint venture with Thames Water.Over the past 20 years, the company has established a reputation as a design-conscious developer, which continues to regenerate sites and transform them into attractive developments.

St Joseph is the Berkeley Group’s newest brand, based in the Midlands. The business believes that inspiring public realm is the cornerstone of a happy, thriving community and it is committed to delivering the very best developments for local people.

A joint venture between National Grid and the Berkeley Group. The goal is to transform industrial sites from a bygone age into beautiful places which people call home.St William will unlock some of the most technically complex regeneration sites at the heart of communities across London and the South of England, creating homes for everyone.

South Quay Plaza 25

Canary Wharf, E14 – by BerkeleySouth Quay Plaza will be the tallest building the Berkeley Group has built. At 68 storeys, it will offer fantastic views of London. The glass building will be surrounded by lush gardens with waterside cafés, bars and restaurants.

Availability Manhattan suites, 1 and 3 bedroom homes and a 3 bedroom penthouse apartmentPrices from £895,000Contact 020 3797 4681 • southquayplaza.london

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Portfolio / Beyond London Portfolio / Beyond London

Royal Wells Park 45

Royal Tunbridge Wells – by BerkeleyRoyal Wells Park is located in the heart of the historic spa town Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent. The development benefits from connections into London Bridge station in just 42 minutes*.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 4 bedroom houses Prices from £325,000 Contact 01892 886 955 • royalwellspark.co.uk

Broadacres 43

Southwater, West Sussex – by BerkeleyBeautifully designed, combining elegant façades and contemporary interiors, Broadacres is situated in the delightful village of Southwater, West Sussex. Here you will find beautiful countryside, local shops, a new sports pavilion and excellent schools just a short walk away.

Availability 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses Prices from £399,500Contact 01403 885 240 • broadacres-southwater.co.uk

Highwood Village 44

Horsham – by BerkeleyLocated within walking distance of the historic market town of Horsham in West Sussex, Highwood Village offers a range of beautifully styled houses and apartments with a real sense of community.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £235,000Contact 01403 886 520 • highwoodvillage.co.uk

Green Park Village 35

Reading – by St EdwardPerfectly placed within easy reach of London and central Reading, Green Park Village offers a superb collection of New England inspired houses and apartments with a charming lakeside setting.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 3 and 4 bedroom houses Prices from £259,500Contact 0118 391 4853 • greenparkvillage.co.uk

Taplow Riverside 37

Taplow – by BerkeleyPrivate river moorings, views over the Thames and a glorious country park are just some of the attractions. New and refurbished homes and apartments are linked by a network of pretty riverside walks.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments andpenthouses and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homesPrices from £475,000 Contact 01628 873 480 • taplowriverside.co.uk

Princes Chase 38

Leatherhead, Surrey – by BerkeleyNestled in private woodland, Princes Chase is located just five minutes from Leatherhead town centre. This exclusive development offers timeless architecture, beautiful interiors and stunning landscaping.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £262,500Contact 01372 889 337 • princeschase.co.uk

Edenbrook Village 39

Fleet – by BerkeleySet on the edge of an 82-acre country park, yet just a short distance from Fleet town centre, Edenbrook Village offers traditionally styled homes that are perfect for modern family living. Easy access to the M3 allows convenient connections to London and the South Coast.

Availability 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £415,000Contact 01252 755 405 • edenbrookvillage.co.uk

Hartland Village 40

Fleet – by St EdwardHartland Village is a new community in the midst of the Hampshire countryside, surrounded by rich natural woodland and close to the thriving commuter town of Fleet with its excellent fast links to London.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses Prices from £249,950Contact 01252 755 440 • hartlandvillage.co.uk

Leighwood Fields 41

Cranleigh – by BerkeleyLeighwood Fields is a beautiful development in the heart of rural Surrey, moments from the centre of Cranleigh, England’s largest village. Here you will find a high street filled with independent shops and cafés, outstanding schools and acres of glorious green space.

Availability 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £575,000Contact 01483 355 484 • leighwoodfields.co.uk

Barleycroft 42

Rudgwick – by BerkeleyBarleycroft offers stylish modern living in the historic village of Rudgwick on the Sussex-Surrey border. Inspired by the character of its surroundings, this intimate collection of just 55 homes is located close to the many amenities to be found in the village.

Availability 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes Prices from £399,950 Contact 01403 886 807 • barleycroft-rudgwick.co.uk

Elmswater 30

Rickmansworth – by St WilliamElmswater is a development of 48 spacious apartments, some with stunning views overlooking the nearby Elms Lake. Just a short distance from Rickmansworth town centre and within walking distance of the train station, the commute into central London takes just 27 minutes*.

Availability 2 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £620,000Contact 01923 882 124 • elmswater.co.uk

Woodhurst Park 34

Warfield – by BerkeleyClose to the newly redeveloped centre of Bracknell, Woodhurst Park sits in 65 acres of country park. Residents enjoy extensive open spaces, village green, orchard, adventure play areas, paths and cycleways.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses Prices from £275,000Contact 01753 336 528 • woodhurstpark.co.uk

Fairwood Place 31

Borehamwood – by St WilliamLocated just a short walk to Elstree & Borehamwood train station, this collection of 78 apartments has excellent connections to central London in just 18 minutes*. With easy access to the Hertfordshire countryside and a short walk to the town centre.

Availability 2 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £475,000 Contact 020 3797 0468 • fairwoodplace.co.uk

Brompton Gardens 32

Ascot – by BerkeleyBrompton Gardens is a collection of new and refurbished homes in the sought-after town of Ascot. It offers the serenity of country living with the convenience of direct transport links to central London.

Availability 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £550,000 Contact 01753 336 527 • bromptongardens.co.uk

Eldridge Park 33

Wokingham – by BerkeleySet within the historic town of Wokingham, Eldridge Park nestles alongside 25 acres of country park – ideal for picnics, dog walks or an invigorating run. Close to major road and rail links to London and the south east. Crossrail will arrive soon at both Reading and Twyford stations.

Availability 2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses Prices from £410,000Contact 01753 336 529 • eldridgepark.co.uk

Holborough Lakes 47

Kent – by BerkeleySet around a series of freshwater lakes and attractive landscaping, Holborough Lakes offers a range of facilities including a village hall, Valley Invicta Primary School, Benjamin Rabbit Nursery and a residents’ association.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses Prices from £250,000Contact 01643 888 386 • holboroughlakes.co.uk*

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Bankside Gardens 36

Reading – by St EdwardSet amongst acres of parkland and beside a beautiful lake, Bankside Gardens offers contemporary design-led apartments. Located at the heart of the M4 tech corridor, this cutting-edge development heralds a new era of 21st century living – urban lifestyle with a focus on wellbeing.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments Prices from £289,000Contact 0118 391 4862 • banksidegardens.co.uk

Hollyfields 46

Hawkenbury – by BerkeleyOverlooking the High Weald, Hollyfields is located in an idyllic country setting, yet just minutes from historic Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre. This new community of homes is surrounded by landscaping, a village green, ponds, hedgerows and play areas.

Availability 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £550,000Contact 01892 886 961 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

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Portfolio / Beyond London Portfolio / Coming soon

Within London

Further Afield

Knights Quarter 53

Winchester – by BerkeleySituated moments from the historic city centre, combining the best of Winchester living with the very best of Berkeley quality, this exclusive development boasts stylish interiors, magnificent grounds and a residents’ gym.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, penthouses and 4 and 5 bedroom townhousesPrices from £300,000Contact 01962 657 673 • knightsquarter.co.uk

The Waterside 51

Royal Worcester – by BerkeleyDiscover the beauty and charm of this waterside location with refurbished and newly built apartments to suit all lifestyles. Perfectly positioned to enjoy Sunday walks or morning runs along the River Severn and just half a mile from Worcester Foregate Station.

Availability 2 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £189,000Contact 01905 888 537 • watersideroyalworcester.co.uk

Snow Hill Wharf 52

Birmingham – by St JosephSnow Hill Wharf offers a collection of contemporary canal-side apartments. Located within walking distance of the Colmore Business District and prime transport connections.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthousesPrices from £190,000Contact 01213 149 906 • snowhillwharf.co.uk

Abbey Barn Park 50

Buckinghamshire – by BerkeleyLocated just outside High Wycombe town centre, this thoughtfully designed collection of houses and apartments features landscaped spaces linking through the homes to the Deangarden ancient woodland. With fast train services into London Marylebone in 30 minutes*.

Availability Houses and apartmentsPrices from £480,000Contact 01344 985 260 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Bersted Park 48

North Bersted – by BerkeleyThe new homes at Bersted Park, close to the West Sussex coast, are set within some of the south east’s most appealing countryside. Woodland walks, tranquil lakes, open parkland and the coast are on your doorstep.

Availability 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesPrices from £280,000Contact 01243 882 529 • berstedpark.co.uk

We are involved in some of the most ambitious and inspiring developments in the country

COMING SOON*

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Kennet Island 54

Reading – by BerkeleySet in beautifully landscaped grounds and surrounded by open spaces and an ecological area, Kennet Island combines contemporary living within a thriving community close to Reading.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments Prices from £262,500Contact 0118 321 3846 • kennetisland.co.uk

Courtyard Gardens 55

Oxted – by St WilliamLocated in the picturesque commuter town of Oxted in Surrey. The collection of 111 apartments and penthouses all come with private outside space and parking. Set within landscaped gardens and with fast connections into central London in just 33 minutes*.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsPrices from £332,000Contact 020 3944 3400 • courtyardgardensoxted.com

Lumina 56

Camberley, Surrey – by BerkeleyThis exclusive collection of apartments offers the ultimate place to live with the convenience of the train station, shops and restaurants on your doorstep. Enjoying a town centre location, residents’ facilities include a rooftop garden, business lounge, screening room and fitness room.

Availability Manhattan, 1 and 2 bedroom apartmentsPrices from TBAContact 01276 819 822 • lumina-camberley.co.uk

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The Paperyard 49

Horsham – by BerkeleyThis impressive collection of contemporary apartments is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from Horsham train station. Offering stylish town centre living, this vibrant destination enjoys fantastic shopping, dining and entertainment amenities as well as excellent transport links.

Availability Manhattan, 1 and 2 bedroom apartmentsContact 01403 885 532 • thepaperyard.co.uk


Portfolio / Coming soon Portfolio / Coming soon

Farnham 66

Surrey – by BerkeleySituated in the centre of the historic market town of Farnham, moments from Farnham train station this stylish range of carefully designed apartments boasts a courtyard garden and secure underground parking for its residents.

Availability Manhattan, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsContact 01252 755 468 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

The Arches 67

Watford – by St WilliamA gated development of 92 suites, one and two bedroom apartments set within landscaped gardens, benefiting from a private balcony or terrace for every apartment and parking. Just a short walk from Bushey train station, providing fast access into central London in 19 minutes*.

Availability Suites, 1 and 2 bedroom apartmentsContact 020 3944 3636 • thearcheswatford.co.uk

Quinton Court 69

Sevenoaks – by BerkeleyQuinton Court is a brand new collection of apartments situated in Sevenoaks’ historic town centre and within walking distance of the railway station, offering frequent connections into London Bridge in just 22 minutes*. The town centre location means an array of restaurants, boutiques and green spaces are right on your doorstep.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsContact 01732 806 977 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

29 London Road 68

Staines-upon-Thames – by BerkeleyThis collection of stylish apartments is ideally located within a short walk of the town’s train station and town centre. Not only is this Thames-side town home to a fantastic selection of shops, bars and restaurants, it also has the advantage of proximity to Heathrow Airport and excellent connections via A30, M25, M3 and the M4.

Availability Coming soonContact 01784 819 411 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Kenavon Drive 63

Reading – by BerkeleyKenavon Drive enjoys a prime riverside location, within walking distance of Reading town centre and the train station. This landmark scheme will create a new waterside destination in central Reading, providing a place to enjoy a leisurely moment by the water.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses Contact 0118 321 6582 • kenavondrive.com

Sunninghill 64

Royal Berkshire – by St WilliamLocated in Sunninghill, this new development will be providing a collection of both houses and shared ownership apartments. With a village green for residents to enjoy, great transport links into central London in under an hour and parking for every home.

Availability 2 bedroom apartments and 3, 4 and 5 bedroom housesContact 01344 985 463 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Poplar Riverside 60

London, E14 – by St WilliamPoplar Riverside will provide over 2,800 suites and apartments, one hectare of new riverside parkland, café, pub, commercial gym, a supermarket and private lounge. This new development will deliver opportunities for living, working and learning in an environment characterised by the site’s rich natural and industrial heritage.

Availability Suites, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsContact 020 3944 2173 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Hertford 61

Hertfordshire – by St WilliamA riverside development of almost 400 new homes in the historic town of Hertford, delivering a collection of one and two bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom family homes. Adjacent to the River Lea, offering peaceful canal-side walks,

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and 3 and 4 bedroom housesContact 020 3944 3985 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Sunningdale Park 65

Royal Berkshire – by BerkeleyNestled within 79 acres of undulating parkland and ancient woods, Sunningdale Park offers contemporary new and refurbished homes, designed to Berkeley’s exacting standards. Nearby you will find world-class golf courses and members’ clubs, and popular seasonal events at Ascot Racecourse.

Availability Coming soonContact 01344 985 463 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Vastern Road 62

Reading – by BerkeleyLocated beside the River Thames and just moments from Reading Central train station, Vastern Road is set to become a prestigious new riverside address. Designed to create a sense of place, connecting town to the river, this scheme is within walking distance of Reading town centre.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and 2 bedroom houses Contact 0118 321 7322 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

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Highcroft 70

Wallingford – by St EdwardHighcroft presents a collection of homes inspired by traditional architecture, complemented with modern interior design. The development in Oxfordshire also offers green open spaces, a new primary school and allotments for the whole community to enjoy.

Availability 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes and 2 and 3 bedroom bungalowsContact 01865 989 303 • highcroft-wallingford.co.uk

Glasswater Locks 71

Birmingham – by St JosephA distinctive new canalside location with a high-quality range of contemporary apartments and duplexes and all the on-site amenities that make busy lives easier, including plans for a gym, cafés and shops. Anticipated HS2 connections from Curzon Street station are less than half a mile away.

Availability 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and duplexesContact 01213 147 409 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Southall Waterside 57

Southall – by BerkeleySouthall Waterside is one of London’s most significant regeneration projects. It will be a place of gardens and parks, entertainment and leisure located just 17 minutes* from Bond Street.

Availability Studio, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsContact 020 3944 4037 • southallwaterside.co.uk

Malt Street 58

London SE1 – by BerkeleyThis new development in south London will offer over 800 spacious and stylish homes. With a linear park running through the heart of the development and shops, cafés and workspaces dotted around, Malt Street is transforming an underused industrial site into a thriving, mixed-use neighbourhood.

Availability Studios and 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsContact 020 3797 0383 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

Twelvetrees Park 59

London, E16 – by BerkeleyTwelvetrees Park is a new development of over 3,800 homes, built around 12 acres of open green space, landscaped gardens and a WiFi-enabled park, and located minutes from West Ham station. With a new school, independent bars and cafés, popular restaurants and a community centre at its heart.

Availability Studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartmentsContact 020 3944 9716 • berkeleygroup.co.uk

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SEARCH FOR YOUR IDEAL HOME ONLINE berkeleygroup.co.ukFor further information about our developments, please visit: berkeleygroup.co.uk or call our Sales Offices where our teams will be very happy to help you.

86 Berkeley Life

“Our definition of home was as much about belonging as property”

COMING HOME

ILLUSTRATION SEB JARNOT

No place like home The space we inhabit holds a special meaning for all of us, says Paul Simpson

“I desire and I long every day to go home and look upon the day of my return,” Odysseus, hero of Homer’s Odyssey tells us. That desire,

which drives him on during his nine years away from Troy, remains one of our most universal, instinctive and profound needs. As Judy Garland, as Dorothy in the MGM musical The Wizard Of Oz, observed with such feeling: “There’s no place like home, there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home!”

For our earliest ancestors, Verlyn Klinkenborg noted in the Smithsonian Museum’s magazine, “home may have been nothing more than a small fire and the light it cast on a few familiar faces, surrounded by ancient city-mounds of termites.” Of course, our homes – much like our idea of what home is – have since become much more sophisticated.

The etymological roots of the word ‘home’ are tangled, but the obvious link is the German word heim. The fact that heim was originally used to describe a village suggests that, almost from the time when we first began to live in communities, our definition of home was as much about belonging as property.

Feeling secure was important too – which is why, in 1581, we find London headmaster Richard Mulcaster writing that: “He [the householder] is the appointee of his own circumstances and his house is his castle.” Within 40 years, the idea that no one could enter another person’s home unless they were invited, had become part of England’s common law.

The physical construct we call home varies enormously. For India’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, home is a $1 billion skyscraper mansion with his wife, three children and 600 servants. For the Dine people (Navajos) in New Mexico, home is traditionally a hogan, made of wooden poles, tree bark and mud. The doorway opens to the east to capture the sun’s first rays and bring the resident(s) good luck.

In an ever-changing world where we spend so much time in what French anthropologist Marc Auge calls “non-places” – airports, shopping malls, hotels, railway stations – having somewhere to call home can be restorative, therapeutic and anchoring.

The emotions we place on it are powerful and paradoxical. Author Ruth Behar, who was born in Cuba, grew up in New York and works in Michigan, says: “Home is a concrete location on a map. Home is a set of memories that can’t be confined to any map.”

We can ‘feel at home’ somewhere but it’s not the same as ‘being at home’. The difference is eloquently explained by Klinkenborg: “Perhaps you remember a moment, coming home from a trip, when the house you call home looked, for a moment, like just another house on a street full of houses. For a fraction of a second, you could see your home as a stranger might see it. But then the illusion faded and your house becomes home again. That is one of the most basic meanings of home – a place we can never see with a stranger’s eyes for more than a moment.”

Surpass obvious status symbols. Discover the servicestrictly for unique and bespoke watches.

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