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Story: The Sign Design Awards 2009

2009-11-05T15:03:40+01:00

The Sign Design Awards, organised by the Sign Design Society seek to encourage and promote the best projects undertaken worldwide in the field of signing and wayfinding.

Four award categories generated entries from individuals and organisations in Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, Ireland, Portugal and the USA as well as the UK. The projects themselves were equally geographically diverse adding France, Muscat, Switzerland and the UAE to the list.

A high point in the 2009 competition was reached on October 22nd at a prestigious ceremony at St Martin-in-the-Fields in London, where an invited audience saw the winners and those commended receive their prizes. Full information on the Awards ceremony, the winners and the projects they submitted is on the dedicated Awards Website.

The prizes were presented at a prestigious ceremony at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London on October 22nd, attended by members of the Society, its financial supporters and press representatives. The ceremony was sponsored by No-Nonsense Design and the trophies for the winners were designed and manufactured in vitreous enamel by A J Wells and Sons.

This year’s Awards do not finish there as over forty of the entries to the competition will be shown at an exhibition at the Building Centre in London from 2nd to 14th November. The exhibition is free and there will be a comments book for your observations.

This exhibition will then relocate to Vienna, Austria in December

It will be the centrepiece of Sign09, a series of workshops on related themes, organised by our friends, the International Institute of Information Design, in association with the Society.

Location: Lahore Karahi

2009-11-05T12:17:34+01:00

Many people will argue that Lahore Karahi does not serve real indian food. Some people will say the staff are rude, others will say, its just a cheap curry house famous only for it’s Kebab rolls and their all right. It doesn’t serve Indian food, it serves real Pakistani food and there is a difference, big difference in fact. Main dishes are prepared and served in a cast iron Karahi pot. The prices are low, the staff are only pleasant to families and the food is chilli-hot, service is speedy and inconsistant. Don’t be intimidated; simply make eye contact with a waiter and seat yourself down and start ordering.

The Lahore Karahi comes into its own as a takeaway, and there’s usually a queue at the counter as people collect their considerable banquets – not just chicken tikka in a naan, or portions of curry, but large and elaborate biryanis as well. Arrive on a Sunday treat yourself to some true Pakistani delights such Nihari, Pakistan’s famous breakfast curry.

1 Tooting High Street, SW17 0SN London, United Kingdom
Daily
+442087672477
http://www.lahorekarahi.co.uk
sales@lahorekarahi.co.uk
[Northern] at Tooting Broadway

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Location: Blue Legume

2009-11-05T12:08:29+01:00

Stoke Newington – once considered the wrong side of shabby – is today a lust-have postcode for north Londoners seeking a slower pace that’s still sufficiently urban. A bonifide yummy mummy Mecca, the area is finding increasing favour amongst hip young families who congregate along Church street’s plentiful selection of bistros and bakeries to sip lattes and talk pre-school. Blue Legume is one such spot. And, while it sports a sufficiently kid-friendly vibe, the crowd also comprises plenty of students and creative types; armed with The Guardian and possibly a hangover.

Celebrating it’s 15th birthday this year, Blue Legume’s secret is two fold: generous sized portions of freshly cooked brunches with a Mediterranean twist, plus the art of making patrons feel like they’re in their own home. So it’s a little scruffy; papers strewn on the floor and kids milling around, but ultimately it’s an affable, jazz-infused space where loyal locals can be found chomping on organic honey waffles with fresh fruits (delicious), or perhaps a goats’ cheese stuffed aubergine piled high with inventive salads. If there’s still room after one of the calorie-defying brunches, Blue Legume’s lip-smacking cake cabinet is reason alone to visit Stokie a little more often.

101 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 0UD London, United Kingdom
tbc
+4402072414454
67, 76, 106, 149, 243, 393, 476 bus routes all pass through Stoke Newington High Street

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Location: Aveda Spa

2009-11-03T09:09:11+01:00

Leaving city stresses firmly at the door, the Aveda Institute cuts a striking first impression and lures passers-by with the promise of head massages and herbal teas – holistic hairstyling, if you will. The interior design is smart to say the least; stylish recycled woods and metals manage to emulate a Zen-like calm, but subtly placed partitions also allow for energized stylists to bustle about without disrupting the mellower clientele.

Downstairs, Aveda’s, intimate, low-lit spa also exudes a similar calm, cool, collected ambience. Cafe del Mar sets the tone for a tuned in audience, while an organic bamboo, wood, and stone interior is further enhanced by Indian and Balinese style carvings – providing a deliberate departure from London living.

Treatments, while not exactly abundant, are expertly delivered and based on nature’s five key elements. A Signature Elemental massage provides rejuvenation for the soul, while Botanical Skin Resurfacing (Aveda’s kinder alternative to traditional microdermabrasion) is a softer, more environmentally sound way to radiant skin. Considering Aveda employs 100% wind power as its manufacturing energy source and grows its own herb garden on the roof, here is a venue that yields a conscience that’s (nearly) as refreshed as your skin.

174 High Holborn, WC1V 7AA London, United Kingdom
Mon - Wed 09:00 - 19:00 Thur - Fri 08:00 - 20:00 Sat - 09:00 - 18:30 Sun - 10:00 - 16:00
+4402077597355
http://www.aveda.co.uk/
institute.london@aveda.co.uk
[Central] [Picadilly] Holborn tube, Covent Garden

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Event: Little Boots - 11 Dec 20:00

2009-11-02T14:20:09+01:00

With everyone from Captain Beefheart to Miley Cyrus impressing themselves musically on Viktoria Hesketh (a.k.a. Little Boots), it comes as no surprise that her tunes have a little more weight than your typical mainstream dance act.

Of course it also helps that Little Boots’ 21st century disco tunes are given the once-over by none other than Hot Chip’s Joe Goddard. Come and be ensconced by her understated vocals, minimal beats, layered synths and musings on her favorite toy, the Tenori-On (check out this cover of Hot Chip’s Ready for the floor)

Shepherds Bush Empire
Shepherds Bush Green, W12 8TT London, United Kingdom
http://www.myspace.com/littleboots

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Event: Lightning Bolt - 10 Dec 20:00

2009-11-02T13:49:51+01:00

After listening to our first Lightning Bolt CD a while back, it ended up sliding down to the “less-played” section of the rack. We wondered, frankly, why the epileptic jumble of noise had critics so enamored. Seeing the band had set a date for London, we decided to give the Rhode Island duo another try.

If you don’t know what we mean, watch the short blasts of their live performances to see how the penny drops. You’ve gotta see Brian Chippendales’ percussive magic in motion before you realize what this Lightning Bolt beast is about: accompanied only by Brian Gibson on bass guitar, it’s incredible how the band achieves its cacophonous wall of sound. Lightning Bolt prefers to play on the ground instead of the stage with the audience crowded; all the better to unleash their frenetic energy that strikes like a flash of white hot noise.

Drum Eyes and Chops provide support.

The Dome
178 Junction Road, N19 5QQ London, United Kingdom
http://www.myspace.com/lightningboltbrians

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Location: The Book Club

2009-11-02T13:06:18+01:00

The team behind The Queen of Hoxton opened this somewhat tamer younger sibling in September 2009 with an emphasis on “fusing boozing with brain power.”

You’ll find plenty of reason to linger over your latte here as this venue regularly hosts photography exhibitions, live music sessions, book readings and panel discussions. Open until late every night, you can join the crowd of young professionals in a heated debate or slink into the soft chairs with the more arty types poring over the collection of books.

100-106 Leonard Street, EC2A 4RH London, United Kingdom
Mon-Wed, 8:00-00:00; Thu-Fri, 8:00-2:00; Sat, 10:00-2:00; Sun, 12:00-0:00
+442076848618
http://www.wearetbc.com
info@wearetbc.com
[Northern] at Old Street

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Event: Restyling & Refashioning - 13 Nov 10:30

2009-10-30T12:15:55+01:00

Talks about how to wear vintage clothing, workshops about the classic men’s suit and showcases by Savile Row apprentices and the finalists of the Golden Shears Awards: this is the humble clothes swap V&A style.

Putting sustainable fashion under the microscope, the organizers of this event are encouraging you to ditch the High Street retailers for a day, dig out some pre-loved garments and come and swap them for someone else’s pre-loved treasures. Learn how to mix and match your vintage finds with key wardrobe basics or simply bury yourself in a mountain of taffeta and lace.

Victoria & Albert Museum
Cromwell Road, SW7 2RL London, United Kingdom
http://www.vam.ac.uk/activ_events/events/Restyling_and_Refashioning/index.html

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Event: Fever Ray - 05 Dec 20:00

2009-10-29T13:31:25+01:00

The Knife’s Karin Dreijer Andersson took a break from from her “Heartbeats” partner to create creepy, deeply dark electronica that glides from brooding to perverse with voice-changing modifiers and barely-there vocals. Her highly original, entrancing performances have blurred the lines between concert and performance art, taking a more avant-garde approach to the synth-wave that has swept the mainstream this year.

Unfortunately, Dreijer Andersson is putting her Fever Ray alter-ego to rest (for the moment) so we cannot implore you enough to take this opportunity to catch a glimpse of her critically acclaimed project.

The Forum
9-17 Highgate Road , NW5 1JY London, United Kingdom
http://feverray.com/

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Location: Elemis Spa

2009-10-28T11:09:45+01:00

Ahhhh, surely the art of happiness involves a visit to Lancashire Court once in a while? Or, more simply, a trip to the court’s discretely hidden Elemis spa. Sticking two aroma-scented fingers up to stress, this elegant (and newly refurbished) urban day spa may be moments from Oxford St, but it’s a million miles away from the madness that sends many high-profiled, stressed-out individuals through its doors. As glamorously otherworldly as it is familiar home-from-home, Elemis spa, with all its handmade sofas and intricate metal wall hangings does ‘touchy-feely’ very well. Dreamily, a Moonlight Suite for couples and friends features, as does a restored Moorish suite and traditional Rasul for luxuriously dirty detoxing on handcrafted heated thrones.

For the traditionalists meanwhile, the classic spa menu doesn’t disappoint: Aroma stone massages, herbal lavender repair facials and a classic deep tissue all get the proverbial thumbs up. That said, we’re also fans of the coconut and milk ritual wrap with dry floatation; the human equivalent of snuggling inside a giant bounty bar and having your feet squeezed. Pleasure personified.

2-3 Lancashire Court Mayfair, W1S 1EY London, United Kingdom
Mon - Sat 09:00am – 21:00pm Sun - 10:00am – 18:00pm
+4402074994995
http://www.elemis.com/
[Central] Bond St tube, [Victoria] Oxford Street tube

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Location: Akari

2009-10-28T11:08:45+01:00

The uninspiring facade is the first of several good things about Akari. After all, had it been an eye-catching triumph, chances are many more would have discovered it and forever altered the unique, ‘stumble on by accident’ ambience that gives this venue its charm.

Located on Islington’s bustling Essex Road, it is easy to mistake Akari for a typical lager and live sport pub. Glance a second time though, and the window’s Japanese typography is enough to get the mildly curious through the doors to discover an altogether different ‘gastropub’. Akari (Japanese for ‘lightness’) has undergone a considerable facelift, but not at the cost of the pub’s original fixtures. Antique Chippendale wall mounts, high Victorian ceilings and a spacious bar all remain, except the buxom bar maids of yesteryear have been replaced by talented Japanese chefs who slice, slurp and season dishes at lightening speed. Unaffected but gleefully atmospheric, Akari doesn’t imitate typical Japanese dining – it is Japanese dining.

Speaking of which, the cuisine is of the traditional Izakaya school of thought and is intended to complement the sake on offer. Savour tenderly fried calamari hoods in ginger, or ignite taste buds with the best-selling Sui Gyoza: four opalescent pillows of homemade pork and herb dumplings, shimmering like sunken treasure in a giant bowl of miso. For the heavy weights meanwhile, robust, silky tuna cheek is an instant conversation (gob) stopper, while a grilled cod with miso has caused arguments according to the owner, purely down to “who gets the last piece of crispy marinated skin”. After our second visit, we’d agree that’s something worth fighting for.

196 Essex Road, N1 8LZ London, United Kingdom
Mon - Closed Tue - Sun: 12:00 - 23:00
+4402072269943
http://www.akarilondon.co.uk/
[Overground] Essex Road [Victoria] from Highbury & Islington

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Story: The World is Yours

2009-10-27T18:35:21+01:00

What started as a snatched session at the film recording of The Style Council’s Confessions of a Pop Group was to become the break that propelled Lawrence Watson along a career in music photography that would take him around the world – from New York’s hip-hop soaked five boroughs to the streets of LA and back to the UK via the Gallagher’s Manchester. All of which is now captured in his new book The World is Yours released in May.

Born in Hammersmith in 1963, Lawrence Watson is one of the most talented photographers this country has ever produced. After leaving school with an ‘O’ Level in art he started an apprenticeship at a dark room in Old Street, moved on to London Weekend Television and then began contributing to the New Musical Express, freelancing at evenings and weekends. In the early 80s as hip hop took off, Lawrence went over to the US and captured legendary artists Run DMC. Eric B and Rakim and Public Enemy in their prime. From there he has gone on to work with the biggest names in music and is responsible for iconic portraits of Spike Milligan, Robert Duvall, and Harold Pinter.

At the end of the Confessions of a Pop Group session, Weller approached Lawrence and gave him the address of Solid Bond recording studios and asked him to drop the shots off there. “That was it,” said Lawrence, “I spent the whole of that weekend in the darkroom, painstakingly hand-printing 50 or so bromides. I wanted them to be perfect. On Monday night after work, I raced over to Solid Bond with my box of prints. Luckily Paul was still working.” Expecting Weller to like perhaps one or at best two of the prints, Lawrence was shocked at his response: “After looking at them, Paul telephoned his long-time friend and sleeve designer, Simon Halfon, and said he wanted to replace the artwork on the Confessions sleeve with my photographs. This was despite the fact that the sleeve had already been designed! Needless to say, I floated home that evening.”

After Confessions, Lawrence has worked with Weller throughout his solo career, creating iconic images for several of his album covers, directing videos and still works as his tour photographer. He has also worked extensively with Oasis and was invited to document the recording of their Dig out Your Soul album at the legendary Abbey Road studios.

These photographs can now been viewed in one place for the first time in The World is Yours, a retrospective of Lawrence’s iconic images including Morrissey, David Bowie, Pulp, Snoop Doggy Dog, Isaac Hayes, Ian Brown, Grace Jones, Pet Shop Boys, Jesus and Mary Chain, New Order and Terry Hall.

You can sense how Lawrence works – quietly, unobtrusively, intently – from his portraits. You can sense the trust he engenders in people he has grown to know over the years. He kept on doing it, and he kept on getting better. He has that eye for the crucial moment.

Launched in conjunction with Adidas as part of their 60th anniversary, throughout the book, it’s clear there’s a love of the 3-Stripes amongst the artists, from LL Cool J and perhaps most famously Run DMC during those early days of hip-hop to Ian Brown and The Gallaghers.

Former NME colleague and Loaded founder James Brown said: “Lawrence was often the first photographer to capture the raw energy that’s so exciting in the early stages of their careers. He captures people before they become blasé.” He continued: “As a music photographer you can ask for no better recommendation than having the sharpest guys around ask you to work with them again and again.”

It’s certainly been an exciting journey for Lawrence and one that you can now see documented for yourself in this retrospective, and as he says himself: “It has never felt like work, always a joy.”

Event: Peaches - 13 Dec 20:00

2009-10-27T13:20:02+01:00

After spending the year continent-hopping and playing shows in the States, Canada, Japan, Australia and all across Europe, Peaches returns to London with band Sweet Machine, bringing her wild and often outrageous stage antics to Koko.

In a year when female driven electro-pop has ruled supreme, the reigning princess of foul-mouthed electro-punk still stays two jumps ahead of the pack, thanks largely to her no-holds-barred approach to music and performance (her show in Berlin earlier this year featured an impromptu performance from a Dutch sword swallower, who joined the entourage only a few days prior). Expect grinding.

Koko
1A Camden High Street, NW1 7JE London, United Kingdom
http://www.peachesrocks.com

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Location: Beach Blanket Babylon

2009-10-21T15:07:01+02:00

Tucked away at the top of Ledbury Rd, Beach Blanket Babylon (or BBB as it’s usually referred to) has been a stalwart of the West London bar scene for almost two decades. It has the chichi atmosphere of most West London watering holes and its clientele are very much the polished sorts that populate this side of town, with the extensive cocktail list drawing in a late twenties/early thirties crowd for after work drinks and evening soirees.

What makes BBB stand out from the rest is its decor, which is firmly entrenched in the maximalist camp of interior design. Louis 14th style chairs and chaise longues are covered in opulent velvets, imposing statues populate the stone walls, chandeliers hang from the ceilings and candle-lit walkways lead from one room to another – it’s over the top in the best possible way. For a daytime visit, try afternoon tea in the restaurant or weather permitting, on the terrace.

45 Ledbury Road , W11 2AA London, United Kingdom
12pm - 12am everyday
+4402072292907
http://www.beachblanket.co.uk/home.html
[Central] at Notting Hill Gate, [Hammersmith] Ladbroke Grove

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Location: Art Work Space

2009-10-21T13:20:01+02:00

Hospitality and art have always gone hand in hand, from artworks hung in hotels’ lobbies to pop-up galleries and whole art fairs taking over hotel rooms. The Hempel Hotel is taking the idea in yet another direction opening a permanent, independent gallery in what, until recently, was the hotel’s restaurant; it’s beautifully minimalist interiors feeling as if designed with the display of art in mind.

The gallery, brainchild of Naomi Murtagh, focuses on young and emerging artists. It’s first exhibition, watercolors by Haslam Fox, explores London’s architectural and social diversity. Adding an extra twist to your usual experience of viewing art, you can stroll through Art Work Space with a cocktail in hand, making it even more enjoyable and intoxicating!.

31-35 Craven Hill Gardens, W2 3EA London, United Kingdom
Mon-Fri, 10:30-19:30; Sat, 15:30-19:30; Sun, 13:30-19:30, and by appointment
+442072989000
http://www.artworkspace.co.uk
naomi@artworkspace.co.uk
[Circle][District] at Bayswater; [Central] at Queensway

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Event: Little Noise Sessions - 16 Nov 19:00 - 25 Nov 23:00

2009-10-13T18:22:30+02:00

For any knowing muso, the annual Little Noise Sessions (in association with Mencap, an organization that provides support for people with learning disabilities) are just about the coolest, most coveted charity gig tickets out there at the moment. Set in Islington’s spine-tingling Union Chapel, this year’s line-up includes Mika, The Editors and Florence ‘the lungs’ Welch and her Machine, who will all impart a little acoustic magic for the lucky few (make that 700) who perch in the candlelit rows.

Curated by BBC Radio One’s Jo Whiley, each night features one main headline act (previous years have seen Keane, Snow Patrol and Amy Winehouse grace the stage plus a surprise walk-on from The Killers) and three equally huge “supports” – Lily Allen and U2 amongst that list. And, as a testament to the cliché that good things comes in small packages, this acoustically-blessed yet modestly-sized venue is to be once more bombarded with the biggest bands on the planet.

Hold onto your pew–rumor has it that a number of leading artists intend to make a surprise appearance, so we suggest you bag a ticket and grab yourself the (second) best seat in the house. If ever there was a time to envy God, this is it.

Tickets go on sale October 19, but priority sales are available to those who register

Union Chapel
Compton Terrace, N1 2UN London, United Kingdom
http://www.littlenoisesessions.org.uk/

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Event: Ekstravaganza presents Lindstrøm and Prins Thomas - 28 Nov 22:00 - 29 Nov 06:00

2009-10-13T14:50:21+02:00

With the revival of disco in the past couple of years who would have guessed that Norway would be one of the forces behind the comeback of the genre. The frozen north has been delivering a new generation of artists, DJs, producers and labels, such as Internasjonal and Feedelity, heavily influenced by the retro-futuristic sound of space disco and cosmic beats.

One of the biggest representatives of the Scandinavian disco invasion are Lindstrøm and occasional partner in crime Prins Thomas, who reunite in London for this second edition of Ekstravaganza, and who are also joined by Magnus International, the big boss behind Full Pupp records. Prove that Norway has much more to offer the world than delicious cod fish and, a-ha!, synth pop bands.

Corsica Studios
5 Elephant Road, SE17 1LB London, United Kingdom
http://www.corsicastudios.com/

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Location: Angel Therapy Rooms

2009-10-08T12:36:17+02:00

Housed discretely off Islington’s bustling Essex Road in north London, this serene, basement level spa disarms guests with an ambience that is informal and otherworldly in one. Candles flicker and casually scattered rose petals lead into a spa resplendent with feminine design touches; antique trinkets, embroidered pillowcases and Moroccan tea lights all reflect an ethos that leans towards the personal touch.

Not surprisingly then, Angel Therapy Rooms is the creation of a holistic mother and daughter duo, who established the venue after spotting a gap in the market for a venue that would nail the art of relaxation. Believing London had become saturated with “conveyor belt spas”, the two set about creating a space where downtime doesn’t have a stopwatch associated with it. Phones are banned, watches (advisably) removed and shoes swapped for snug slippers – or bare feet, like the dressed down therapists who float between the bare bricked treatment suites. Angels by name, angels by nature, each therapist is trained personally trained by the owner and specialize in reflexology, pregnancy massage, Thai stretching and a newly launched holistic facial; featuring copious amounts of the spa’s signature (and certified organic) facial oils packed with a heaven-scented rose otto oil.

After treatments or a 3 hour pamper ritual, guests are encouraged to recline on a giant squishy day bed, before an ‘angel’ appears with herbal teas and bowls of seasonal fruit topped with organic yoghurt. Not quite naughty, but very, very nice.

16a Essex Road, Islington, N1 8LN London, United Kingdom
Mon: Closed Tue - Thu: 12:00 - 20:00 Fri:11:00 - 19:00 Sat: 11:00 - 18:00 Sun: 11:00 - 17:00
+4402072261188
http://www.angeltherapyrooms.com/
info@angeltherapyrooms.com
[Northern] Angel tube

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Location: Guanabara

2009-10-05T17:15:47+02:00

Named after the stretch of water that tickles the shores of Ipanema and Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, this stylish live music haunt is a must for any fan of Brazilian beats and brews.

Live samba and salsa emanate from the speakers no less than seven nights per week while the drinks selection would have you thinking the Thames flowed directly into the Amazon. Expertly crafted Caipirinhas dangle from the hands of the sophisticated yet relaxed crowd (Guanabara apparently sells more than 3,000 of the potent cachaça cocktails per week), but if it’s a slightly lighter evening you’re after, the list of imported beers, wines and Amazonian fruit juices will not disappoint.

A few sips on on your Brahma beer should wash away any dancefloor shyness but if that doesn’t do the trick, you can polish your moves at one of their midweek samba classes.

Parker street, WC2B5PW London, United Kingdom
Mon-Sat, 17:00-2:30; Sun, 17:00-0:00
+442072428600
http://www.guanabara.co.uk
[Central] [Picadilly] at Holborn

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Location: Horniman Museum

2009-10-01T14:14:52+02:00

The Horniman museum in Forest Hill is oft-overlooked in cultural tours of London. But venture southwards, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and you’ll find a beautiful museum full of eclectic hidden treasures, including an aquarium, natural history galleries, and Africa World, the first permanent exhibition in Britain dedicated to African art and culture. That’s just the permanent collection.

The museum was opened in 1901 by Frederick Horniman, a keen collector. Originally built to house the overflow of pieces, the original collection now comprises only 10% of the current inventory. Still, part of the Horniman’s charm is the fact that whilst it’s small enough to be manageable in one visit, crucially it’s still interesting enough that there’ll be something new each time you go. There’s a cafe, which overlooks lovely gardens (which are also open to the public), and it’s a popular spot for family outings, as well as afternoon strolls.

100 London Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3PQ London, United Kingdom
Daily 10:30 - 17:30 Gardens: Monday - Saturday 7.30am - sunset Sunday 8am - sunset Entrance to museum and gardens is free but some temporary exhibitions may charge
+442086991872
http://www.horniman.ac.uk
enquiries@horniman.ac.uk
Buses: 176, 185, 197, 356, P4 - stop outside the Museum and Gardens on London Road [National] at Forest Hill

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Story: jotta.unlike.fashionweek

2009-09-23T14:28:12+02:00

The fashion merry go-round is in full rotation at London Fashion Week’s new digs at Somerset House, where the “25 Years of British Fashion” celebrations continue. Here’s a half-time report from the jotta.unlike team about the goings-on on the catwalks and behind the curtains (check out the jotta fashionweek special for full coverage).

THE NEW VENUES: Somerset House has been transformed into a kaleidoscope of fashion venues, housing the British Fashion Council catwalk show space, The Portico Rooms presentation area and an array of designer showrooms and lounges. Continuing its support of new designers, LFW features an array of smaller, off-schedule talent showcases dotted around the main venue, creating a ‘central fashion village’. Shows include collaborative catwalk show “On|Off” at 180 Strand just around the corner, Vauxhall Fashion Scout at Freemasons’ Hall and Fashion Fringe in Covent Garden – all thankfully within easy distance for stiletto-strapped feet. Fashion East at the Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2000. Founder Lulu Kennedy’s impeccable ability to choose new talent has given the initiative a reputation for its fashion instinct helping young designers such as Marios Schwab, Richard Nicoll and Emma Cook launch their labels.

Sartorial celebrations began early as Tank Magazine hosted the launch of Hywel Davies’ latest book British Fashion Designers aptly enough at London’s Liberty. Style luminaries including milliner Stephen Jones and fashion historian Judith Watt were treated to cocktails, with Davies on hand to sign copies of his third offering.

Greek born designer ioannisdimitrousis started the celebrations off with a salty bang unveiling his latest collection.

On sunny Saturday morning, the great and the good gathered outside Westminster University for the Mark Fast and Mary Kantranzou shows as part of Topshop NEWGEN. An air of excitement surrounded Fast following his storming success at the “On/Off” show last season.The hall was packed as the lights went down and the first model appeared wrapped in a skin tight crocheted mini dress. Mary Kantranzou followed immediately with Pucci-like swirls on acid printed silks and higher-than-high shiny fabrics, sculpted bows and holograms strutted down the runway to “She’s a Lady” by Pulp, New Generation-sponsored Louise Gray ventured forth to create an idiosyncratic presentation in Somerset House’s Portico Rooms. The wild exuberance of her work shattered the classic interior, with an late ‘80s/early ‘90s London-inspired collection named “Oh No Babe.”

Last season the buzz was all about Kinder Aggugini formerly the industry’s best-kept secret. With his new collection “Loss of Innocence” the Italian-born wunderkind steps into the spotlight. Another Central Saint Martins graduate and former “ghost” designer for the likes of John Galliano, Vivienne Westwood and Versace, the crux of Aggugini’s new collection lies on pretty children’s dresses, ripped apart at the seams and rendered darker and spruced up to become more “adult.”

This season’s selection of designers at Blow Presents clearly demonstrated the diversity of new talent in London. From “haute coiffure” by Charlie Le Mindu to sophisticated unisex looks by Lina Osterman, their eccentricity was highlighted by their incompatibility.

Antonio Berardi is the British-Sicilian designer whose return to London after years spent showing in Paris has warmed the hearts of many a patriot this season. Not attracted to the buzz of the BFC tent, he took his show to the Grade I listed St. Marks church in Mayfair and had models strut down the aisle with enough flesh on display to make a vicar blush.

London’s design husband and wife team Eley Kishimoto have maintained their success since 1996, continuing to supply us with great relaxed shapes full of playful exuberance. Beyond the Chintz is a “clashing of visual references in the home environment” mixing silk and cotton, geometric and check, leather and jersey and their slouch with a touch of floral was another winner.

Story: Wasted

2009-09-17T11:04:12+02:00

Tea drinking is a global past time, but a quintessentially British tradition. Raw leaves arrive on our shores from Argentina to Zimbabwe, shipped in foil lined paper sacks. These un-recyclable bags follow a linear path from ship to shore to factory to landfill; and by the thousands. Through innovative re-use of this refuse we can turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. Wasted showcases the throw away by-product of our penchant for tea, recomposed along with other disposables to form an immersive and jewel-like, semiprecious environment. The silver pleated tea-sack walls unfurl spilling dynamic seating strata made of re-claimed fire-hose.

Wasted is a project conceived and curated by Arts Co, presented in the tunnel connecting the London Underground to The V&A, which sees architect Ian Douglas-Jones and designer Ben Rousseau create a vast architectural seating strata using materials reclaimed by Elvis & Kresse. Wasted will interrogate a UK environmental problem – the tonnes of traditionally unrecycled waste that end up in landfill – and demonstrate how reclaimed materials can be used to create aspirational products.

This project for the London Design Festival forms the launch of the joint venture between Elvis & Kresse and Arts Co, to create a new line of everyday, beautiful products in collaboration with artists from waste.

In future millennia what will the strata of the UK look like if we continue to deposit 99 million tonnes of waste per year? According to DEFRA figures, 109 square miles of the UK is occupied by landfill. If this continues the UK will run out of landfill space in under nine years. What processes or opportunities are there for architects, designers and artists to use these materials heading for landfill, for the everyday, or in the urban landscape?

Location: Cosmo Bar

2009-09-16T15:02:03+02:00

Split over two levels, this bar and club successfully straddles the divide between all out-party palace and relaxing cocktail lounge.

The ground floor hosts comfy couches perfect for unwinding and sipping a post-work aperitif, while those with wilder aspirations can descend to the basement where the selection of club and DJ events is almost as thorough as their range of top-notch cocktails. The venue is also available for private hire.

50/54 Clerkenwell Road, EC1M5PS London, United Kingdom
+442073368884
http://www.cosmobar.com/
stefano@cosmobar.com
[Metropolitan] [Hammersmith] [Circle] at Farringdon

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Location: Eley Kishimoto pop-up store

2009-09-16T14:03:19+02:00

Since the ‘60s, Carnaby Street and the surrounding area has been home to some of London’s kookiest and quirkiest shops. Despite the ongoing threat of homogenization which relentlessly hovers over this hallowed ground, there’s still an undercurrent of off-kilter independent fashion rippling through this part of town.

One notable example is this temporary locale, run by designers Mark Eley and Wakako Kishimoto, who have brought their wildly individual brand (featuring garments with clashing prints and bright colors) to nearby Kingly St. Stretching over two floors, the designers purvey their latest collection “Jet Set Masala” here, as well as “archive” pieces, some of which have never been seen in the UK. Bargain hunters should make a beeline for the basement, which is brimming with old stock and cheap finds. Make the most of the impending fever brought on by Fashion Week—the shop is open from now until the first week of October.

8 Kingly St, W1B 5PQ London, United Kingdom
Tue-Wed, 11:00-19:00; Thu, 11:00-20:00; Fri-Sat, 11:00-19:00; Sun, 12:00-17:00
+4402077345756
http://www.eleykishimoto.com/
shop@eleykishimoto.com
[Central] [Bakerloo] [Victoria] at Oxford Circus

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Location: Ciné Lumière

2009-09-16T12:38:56+02:00

A trip to Ciné Lumière is the kind of secret indulgence you don’t want to share with anyone else. Housed in the Art Deco headquarters of the Institut Français’ Cultural Center, the 300-seat cinema opened in 1998 and screens a well-curated selection of foreign films and some new general releases.

Ciné Lumière regularly hosts talks, retrospectives and festivals and thirsty movie-goers often enjoy a post-screening debrief and aperitif at the adjacent Le Bistrot. True francophiles should take up membership, allowing discounts on movie tickets here and at other cultural institutions such as the ICA and BFI Southbank.

17 Queensbury Place, SW7 2DT London, United Kingdom
Mon-Fri, 8:30-22:00; Sat, 10:00-22:00
http://www.institut-francais.org.uk
[Picadilly] [Circle] [District] at South Kensington

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Story: Tongue Nʼ Cheek

2009-09-14T11:42:13+02:00

Created in a special partnership between Dizzee Rascal, Nike Design and long-time Dizzee collaborator and creative director, Ben Drury, Dizzee describes his Nike Air Max 90 as “Stylish but simple. The Air Max 90 is pretty much THE street shoe, ʻinnit? It’s quite sporty, but when you get the right colours you can wear it with anything. But with this one we tried to keep it quite plain so it could complete any outfit. It’s functional and there was a pretty deep design process involved”.

Drury, who has designed the artwork for three of Dizzee’s albums, including his new record ʻTongue Nʼ Cheekʼ, said, “We’ve had a long standing creative relationship dating back to Dizzee’s first album, ʻBoy In Da Cornerʼ. Independently, we’ve also both had close links with Nike and it just made perfect sense to come together on this project and join the dots. It was an organic, almost unconscious process.”

Dizzee and Drury collaborative works to date are compelling because there’s a duality. With this design, the almost obvious literal titular graphics are countered by subtle execution. Drury explains, “The tongue—it’s pink. Like a tongue. The ʻuʼ in the embroidery takes the form of a tongue. All this is countered by the subtlety and quality of the materials used. Premium leathers complimented with transparent details. With Dizzee, it’s all upfront – he’s straight up, clear. He is in the worldʼs spotlight. That’s why this shoe is super bright and fresh. Brushed suede may not be most practical material for London, but that reflects Dizzee’s life right now—he gets dropped off on the red carpet, no fronting! We all set out to make a shoe which could take a bit of punishment and still look fresh, which we think we have achieved here” said Drury.

The Air Max 90 ʻTongue Nʼ Cheekʼ is constructed from a subtle combination of chalk white premium grade soft leather and high knap premium suede. The toe box features an additional perforated detailing in the leather which is carried through the heel wrap. The tongue is contrasting pink premium leather with suede back detail (“the pink tongue was almost an afterthought—looks like a tongue doesn’t it?” —Ben Drury) and features Tongue [right foot] and Cheek [left foot] special red embroidery detail.

The Air Max is further personalised with a reflective Dizzee man heel tab logo, a transparent Swoosh (“My idea for extending the whole transparent thing from the Air mid-sole to make anything I could transparent was partially a response to what I know about Diz. I’ve been working with him for years, and I’ve always found him to be totally transparent in his dealings. He’s honest and all those details, in another way, reflect personality traits”—Ben Drury) and a special two piece outsole comprised of white and clear rubber revealing Dizzeeʼs Dirty Stank Recordings logo.

The big fly makes it official. No one really sees the bottom but it’s one of them little touches that a sneaker pimp would like

Event: Designers in Residence #2 - 27 Jan 10:00 - 08 Mar 18:00

2009-09-11T13:00:02+02:00

Designers in Residence is an annual programme where the Design Museum invites five young designers to create site-specific work and transform the ground floor of the museum.

Asif Khan graduated as an architect and works from micro to macro across industrial design, furniture and architecture. Past projects include cafés, textiles, furniture, and a canopy, produced collaboratively, for a favela in Recife, Brazil. Other joint projects include a modular lighting system with Peter Liversidge and a sculptural mobile displayed on the catwalk for Osman Yousefzada Spring/Summer show in 2009. These collaborative projects enrich and diversify his practice, reinforcing his ability to adapt cross disciplines and apply his expertise to create new and unexpected results.

Bethan Laura Wood’s practice is multidisciplinary; her designs are explorations into material, pattern, and structure. Through her work, Bethan observes the relationship between the user and the object, with an interest in why people discard or hold onto objects. She creates products that explore how different attributes of the mundane can be celebrated and rediscovered, encouraging users to reconnect with the objects that surround them. With a fascination in the everyday mass-produced elements which form the fabric of the city, Bethan is keen to accent the intrinsic qualities of these materials, encouraging the user to appreciate and acknowledge the various facets.

Farm describe themselves as “a decidedly British design collective”, consisting of the furniture designers: Alexena Cayless, Giles Miller, Sebastian Hejna and Guy Brown. Distinctive in personality and style, they each excel and specialise in different ways, whilst sharing a similar design language and drawing inspiration from popular British culture. They also strive to challenge the conventions of furniture design. Farm considers materials and production methods as the root of their practice with a commitment to investigating British manufacturing techniques.

The Design Museum
Shad Thames , SE1 2YD London, United Kingdom
http://inresidence.designmuseum.org

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Story: Designers in Residence

2009-09-11T12:34:08+02:00

The 2009 Designers in Residence programme has been extended and enhanced to offer each designer an opportunity to engage and participate across all areas of the museums programme. The new format will run from September to March and the first two designers will take up their residency during London Design Festival in September and the remaining three designers will reveal their work in January 2010.

During this period the five designers will host activities and events throughout the museum enabling them to develop key skills and networks.

Installations will be placed around the ground floor of the museum and will include a display that resembles a gaming environment, allowing visitors to view themselves as a virtual character in a real space. The Design Museum Tank will showcase a collection of native British plants presented using the unique technique of plastination. The museum café will be furnished with functional furniture made from recycled mass-produced material and the Farm Factory will convert the Atrium into a studio space and design salon to debate and reveal the hidden processes that link design, manufacturing and consumption.

Now in its third year, Designers in Residence supports the selected designers at an early stage of their career, allowing them to build on their current design practice and develop new or existing work.

Designers in Residence is funded by Esmée Fairbairn, this year’s final five designers are: Asif Khan, Bethan Wood, Dave Bowker, Marc Owens, and the design collective Farm consisting of the designers Giles Miller, Alexena Cayless, Sebastian Hejna and Guy Brown. The residents will blog their journey, experience and thoughts as they create their installations.

Design Museum Director, Deyan Sudjic comments “the new format for Designers in Residence will allow the Design Museum to showcase new talent whilst also engaging them within the museum programme, the residency is a great opportunity to celebrate young designers at the early stages of their careers”.

This series of installations is an opportunity for the Design Museum to showcase and champion emerging talent within the field of design. Each resident has been selected by the Design Museum, a procedure which stretched the length and breadth of Britain.

Story: 100% Design London

2009-09-03T13:09:31+02:00

As part of an ever-growing global brand (100% Design Shanghai and 100% Design Tokyo open their doors in October) JAM have taken over as the creative directors for this year’s 100% Design London—following in the footsteps of Ben Kelly, Tim Pyne, and more recently Tom Dixon.

Among the many first time exhibitors at London’s Earls Court showing 21st Century wrought iron balustrading are exciting Award winning furniture company Decode London with a vast collection of furniture from British designers; Dupenny – designers of Burlesque and other alluring graphic wallpaper; Alp furniture focus on lacquer tables and rugs; To Grace.

“Britishness” is the theme of this yearʼs 100% Design London show that celebrates 15 years of design excellence .

Returning exhibitors include Within4Walls who are exhibiting a desk with a builtin fish tank and &Then are launching button-back upholstery with a twist. British furniture manufacturer Allermuir, Derek Welsh, Deadgood, Pinch, Scabetti, Charlene Mullen, Mark Products from Cornwall, Veedon Fleece rugs, and David Mellor celebrating 15 year exhibiting at the show and 40 years in their London showroom.

100% Futures – the showcase for emerging talent. Over 50 exhibitors will be at this year’s 100% Futures including furniture from Alex Bradley, lighting from Benjamin Hubert, textiles from Ayme Fitzgerald.

100% Materials – a dedicated platform for suppliers of materials, surfaces, components and processes to actively engage with architects, interior designers and specifiers.

100% Detail – UK’s leading architectural and interiors projects event bringing to life the latest developements in sustainblility, innovation and design for architecture and interior projects.

100% Inspiration – Creative director Jamie Anley of JAM introduces a new feature called 100% Inspiration. Each member of this year’s panel was asked to select an object or idea that represents 100% Design for them. Check out the movies

Seminars – a three-day programme of seminars and workshops by global trends publication Mix that reveals what colours, materials and trends are set to unfold throughout the world over the next few years.

The showʼs 30 plus panel members include designers and architects: Craig Allen, Jamie Anley, Jason Bruges, Jonathan Clarke, Max Fraser, Sarah Featherstone, Patrik Fredrikson, Gareth Gardner, Matthew Hilton, Ben Humphries, Jeremy Lord, Tim Lucas, Dominic McCausland, Amos Marchant, Andy Martin, Morvern Mitchell, Joe Morris, John Norden, Phil Nutley, Russell Pinch, Meriel Scott, Ruth Silver, Will Smith, Michael Sodeau, Ian Stallard, Nina Tolstrup, Andrew Waugh, Gareth Williams, Johnny Winter.

Make sure to check out the Brompton Bike Tours – organized by JAM & Brompton Bicycle Ltd. Check here for details.

Location: Charlotte Street Blues

2009-09-02T17:14:20+02:00

Set over three storeys in an old Georgian House, this establishment opened in June 2009 and harnesses some of that inherent blues magic (let’s face it: you don’t hear rumors of DJs swapping their souls for some whizkid laptop skills with the devil at dark crossroads).

The stage has already played host to some legendary performers and session players like John Mayall, John Lee Hooker Jnr and, come September, Snakebone but go along any night of the week for the pure joy of discovering what a simple eight bar progression can do to your soul.

The venue hosts concerts every night and if that all-too-familiar groggy feeling lingers after sampling their 80 (yes 80) different varieties of bourbon, the venue’s Sunday afternoon brunch (all-you-can-eat soul food, a Bloody Mary and a performance from a Gospel choir) should provide the ultimate hangover cure.

74 Charlotte Street, W1T 4QH London, United Kingdom
Mon-Thu, 12:00-23:30; Fri, 12:00-00:30; Sat, 17:00-1:00; Sun, 12:00-22:30
+442075800113
http://www.charlottestblues.com
[Northern] at Goodge Street

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Location: Earls Court

2009-09-02T02:25:21+02:00

London’s second largest exhibition and entertainment venue is a popular choice for mega music and trade affairs. The BRITS are regularily returning to the historic South Kensington location that has also witnessed legendary performances in the 70s from Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Led Zepplin, The Rolling Stones – U2, Oasis and Radiohead have been among the more recent guests in the 19,000 capacity arena.

A plethora of exhibitions ranging from Home, Motor, Food, Fashion, Beauty, Horses, Books, Tech, Wedding and Wrestling shows are regularily put up on stage across the 97,000 square metres.

Earls Court will host the volleyball competitions in the 2012 Summer Olympics – and in September 2009 one of our favourites – the 100% Design London show.

Warwick Rd, SW5 London, United Kingdom
+4402073851200
http://www.eco.co.uk
info@eco.co.uk
[District] [Picadilly] Earls Court [National] Olympia

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Story: Calling all style hunters...

2009-08-18T17:55:57+02:00

With September approaching fast we already have our eyes set on the London catwalks where the celebration of 25 years British Fashion is drawing the fashion folk to the Thames from September 18-22.

In honor of this occasion unlike is teaming up with jotta –- the community for London’s renown Art Colleges—to put together a team of student reporters who will cover the action on and behind the catwalk, interview London’s rising and established fashion stars and hit the infamous aftershow events—all while feeding our style-thirsty readers with daily reports.

Watch this space for more Lights, Camera & Action …

Location: The Doors

2009-08-06T12:55:06+02:00

Although located close to Old Street and Shoreditch, The Doors resembles more a Soho club due to its glamourous feel, instead of the vintage-retro-recycled furnitured clubs easily found in most venues in East London. With a funky modern decor divided into various ambiences, with different colors, shapes and sizes, it will be hard to find a space at this members-only club that you won’t be comfortable at. And comfort also means lots seats where you can have a little break between dj sets, either resting your sore feet or finding good company for a chat, as the venue has an uber-late license until 6:30 in the morning.

217-219 City Road, EC1V 1JN London, United Kingdom
10:00 PM - 06:30 AM
020 7251 6540
http://www.doorsclub.co.uk
indo@doorsclub.co.uk
[Northern] Old Street, Angel

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Location: bookartbookshop

2009-07-22T12:28:39+02:00

For lovers of print, specialty bookshops like bookartbookshop are a little piece of paper heaven. A true labor of love, the shop was founded in an effort to promote the niche (but expansive) publishing genre of artist’s books.

Partially run by volunteers, this little shop is stacked ceiling to floor with handmade, limited edition and obscure artist publications.

Sourcing publications from some of Britain’s best artist presses as well as offering to sell books that may be clogging your personal shelves, the knowledgeable staff happily help visitors find gifts or pieces to round out collections.

A true community center for the biblio-inclined, stop by for one of their many events.

17 Pitfield Street, N16HB London, United Kingdom
Wed-Fri, 13:00-19:00; Sat, 12:00-18:00
+442076081333
http://www.bookartbookshop.com
info@bookartbookshop.com
[Northern] at Old Street

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Story: Galactic Space Bar

2009-07-17T14:35:22+02:00

The second single from Jamie Jones album is a dancefloor destroyer from the outer realms. Featuring live vocals from Egyptian Lover, Galactic Space Bar pre-empts the release of one of the most anticipated debut albums for the current house music era.

Galactic Space Bar is a massive sonic-electro infused battle weapon, a creation that makes the body vibrate and the mind intoxicated with beats. Sparking wildly with sci-fi references, the two versions tie in the twisted vocals of veteran electro figure, Egyptian Lover.

Egyptian Lover is a name synonymous with the US electro scene and released some of the earliest rap LPs. Coming to prominence in the early 80s, Egyptian Lover cuts like Egypt, Egypt and I Need a Freak were standards among club DJs, particularly in the breakdance scene. Early cuts such as Computer Love and Dance are routinely namechecked by a new generation of producers such as Autechre and I-F. As a member of Uncle Jamm’s Army and the force behind a half dozen labels including Freak Beat and Egyptian Empire, Egyptian Lover is a true musical prodigy, still producing today and touring the globe.

Dont You Remember The Future is the debut artist album from Jamie Jones, peering into the coming apocalypse with a body-shaking, teeth-grinding, tripped out fusion of sound on Crosstown Rebels.

Location: Coronet Cinema

2009-06-29T17:50:50+02:00

Forget clunky multiplexes. The Coronet rejects the moneymaking norm in favor for the red-roped glamour of Tinseltown.

Housed in a Grade II listed building, the Coronet has been a Notting Hill landmark since its opening in 1898; its handsome exterior was even immortalized alongside Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts in the much-loved film named after the area. The cinema’s sumptuous interior remains largely as it was when the venue first opened, complete with plushy red seats and an elegant balcony.

103 Notting Hill Gate, W11 3LB London, United Kingdom
Daily, 13:00-23:00
+442077276705
http://www.coronet.org/
info@coronet.org
[Central] [District] [Circle] at Notting Hill Gate

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Location: The Modern Pantry

2009-06-23T15:17:09+02:00

A bare-bones interior sets the tone for The Modern Pantry—with muted design touches, this two tier restaurant and shop lets the food do the talking. Colorful plates with inventive flavor pairings—tuna and yuzu ceviche, seabass with artichokes and tarragon salsa, miso marinated steak with turmeric chickpea chips—come out of London transplant Anna Hansen’s kitchen.

Earning her pedigree at the Sugar Club and Providores, Hansen’s palate is clearly influenced by mentor Peter Gordon’s signature fusion flavors. French technique paired with Japanese ingredients, Indian spices with Spanish tapas—certain combinations, like the roast peanut panna cotta with Kalamansi lime-wasabi jelly and a sesame honey wafer, might sound a bit too creative, but take the chance, most risks pay off.

Laid out over three spaces, The Modern Pantry’s ground floor cafe serves three meals daily while the pantry shop sells precious take away snacks and traditional cafe items. For a more settled meal, walk one floor up to the main dining room.

47-48 St John's Square, EC1V 4JJ London, United Kingdom
Cafe: Tue-Sat, 8:00-23:00
Dining Room: Mon-Fri, 8:00-23:00; Sat, 9:00-23:00; Sun, 10:00-22:00
Pantry/Shop: Mon-Fri, 8:00-16:00; Sat-Sun, closed
+442075539210
http://www.themodernpantry.co.uk
enquiries@themodernpantry.co.uk
[Circle] [Metropolitan] [Hammersmith] at Farringdon

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Location: The Light Bar E1

2009-06-22T10:53:02+02:00

Former Electric Light Station for GER, The Light Bar is a first-rate blend of nightclub, bar and restaurant situated between the City financial district and trendy Shoreditch. The rustic brickhouse decor and the high wooden ceilings remain, while the interior is barely lit and filled with furniture with a minimalist touch.

On the ground floor you can find a bar with a good variety of beers, wines, spirits and cocktails; the restaurant, serving French Mediterranean cuisine; and the courtyard, which makes The Light Bar a pleasant spot during warm evenings. The upstairs lounge occasionally omits the geometric couches to give way to a proper hardwood dancefloor. There is also an adjoining roof terrace with an inspiring view, ideal for a chat or a ciggy between one track and the other.

233 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PJ London, United Kingdom
Restaurant: Mon-Fri, 12:00-15:00 and 18:30-23:00; Sat, 18:30-23:30
Bar: Mon-Wed, 12:00-00:00; Thu-Fri, 12:00-2:00; Sat, 18:30-2:00; Sun, 12:00-22:30
+442072478989
http://www.thelighte1.com
info@thelighte1.com
[Central][Circle][Metropolitan][Hammersmith][Overground] at Liverpool Street

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Location: Seven Dials

2009-06-18T16:45:57+02:00

In “Iolanthe,” Gilbert and Sullivan wrote the verse “Hearts just as brave and fair/ May beat in Belgrave Square/ As in the lowly air of Seven Dials,” referring to this famous seven-street intersection in West London.

The area that surrounds the intersection sprawls along Earlham Street, Monmouth Street, Neal Street, Neals Yard, Shorts Gardens, Shelton Street and Mercer Street and is nothing like the one described by Gilbert and Sullivan. Ironically, it is instead one of London’s most famous shopping districts. Though it is referred to as “Covent Garden’s Hidden Village,” the spiffed-up Seven Dials—containing commercial staple stores like American Apparel, Diesel and Miss Sixty—is clearly no secret.

Monmouth Street , WC2 London, United Kingdom
+442076324800
http://www.sevendials.co.uk/
sevendials@threepipe.co.uk
[Picadilly] at Covent Garden

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Location: The Pelham

2009-06-15T13:46:41+02:00

The Pelham Hotel in London is a private and distinctive hotel situated in Cromwell Place, between Chelsea and Hyde Park. The Pelham draws its character from the surrounding museums, established art dealers and family-owned antique shops.

A blend of country cottage and smart townhouse, The Pelham Hotel has been designed with freshness and modernity. Beyond the porticoed façade, guests find themselves in richly ornamented rooms full of fine details such as tailored fabrics and original artworks. Antique furnishings and paintings emphasize the feeling of well-heeled luxury. Have a cognac near a fire in the wood-paneled library, or retreat into the peacefulness of your own private suite.

15 Cromwell Place, SW7 2LA London, United Kingdom
'Round the clock reception
+440080037468357
http://www.designhotels.com/pelham
res@designhotels.com
[Circle] [District] [Piccadilly] at South Kensington

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Location: Boundary Hotel

2009-06-12T17:19:39+02:00

Boundary’s twelve elegantly quirky guest rooms are spread across two floors, each inspired by a legendary designer or design movement, from Young British to Bauhaus, Eileen Gray to Le Corbusier. Above, five duplex suites range from Modern Dickensian to Modern Chinoiserie, featuring private outdoor balconies and impressive urban views.

In-room amenities include large flat-screen LCD TVs, wireless Internet, handmade UK super King Savoir beds, high-quality English bedding by Reed Family Linens, goose feather and down pillows and duvets, merino wool blankets, extensive acoustic sound-proofing and large wardrobes. Bathrooms are individually styled, some equipped with classic Czech & Speake fittings, others with modern Japanese TOTO combined bidet lavatories; all include REN skincare products, heated floors and power showers.

Check out their in-house restaurant as well.

2-4 Boundary Street, E2 7DD London, United Kingdom
'Round the clock reception
+440080037468357
http://www.designhotels.com/boundary
res@designhotels.com
[Northern][National] at Old Street

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Location: The Sanctum Soho Hotel

2009-06-12T17:08:14+02:00

Located in the heart of London’s West End, the Sanctum Soho Hotel is a celebration of the neighbourhood in which it stands: like Soho itself, the hotel exudes an edgy glamour, and both its design and ambience have an artsy, bohemian flair.

Accordingly, the 30 individually-designed rooms—ranging from crash pad to suite all the way up to a penthouse apartment—are anything but formulaic. Designer Lesley Purcell conceived four distinct mood schemes to meet the diverse aesthetic preferences of hotel guests at London’s Sanctum Soho ranging from sexy and masculine deep chocolate browns, to streamlined glittery silver, sensual soft pinks, and deep exotic mauves for a more dramatic and provocative edge.

20 Warwick Street, W1B 5NF London, United Kingdom
'Round the clock reception
+440080037468357
http://www.designhotels.com/sanctumsoho
res@designhotels.com
[Beakerloo] [Picadilly] at Piccadilly Circus

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Story: Stag & Dagger

2009-05-20T18:42:46+02:00

When we hear the words “music festival” our minds immediately conjure up images of endless rows of port-o-potties, camping and extended traveling for the sake of mediocre bands. However, the Stag & Dagger festival makes us take off our negative-Nancy glasses and see the music-filled light.

For one day only, Shoreditch will be transformed into a music haven, hosting more than one hundred acts spread across twenty-one different venues.

Forget about long car rides and fields filled with harem-panted fans, this mini music festival in the heart of East London’s efervescent nightlife locale brings quality music right to your doorstep. Returning for its second installment, the festival showcases new talent as well as established acts: from über-versatile DJ Andrew Weatherall hosting Favela Chic with Micachu & The Shapes to No Pain in Pop presenting Abe Vigoda and The Mae Shi at the Vibe Bar, choices are numerous, revealing a mix of different genres and styles to suit all tastes, from indie to house, post-punk to twisted pop.

Pick up the all-access wristbands at Shoreditch Church, which allow you to romp around the neighborhood to the diverse tunes of the Cold War Kids and Lovefoxxx, playing at Cargo and Catch, respectively.

Story: Return of the T Bar

2009-05-04T12:41:34+02:00

Media outlets can’t get enough about the financial crisis, but a recession of another sort has hit the capital: a dance music recession. The closing of The End in January 2009 nailed this point home, as the city’s once-glorious house music era faded into a whimper and left many of its fans standing venue-less.

Enter T Bar. Neither swallow-you-up-whole enormous like Fabric or tiny like Plastic People, open virtually every day of the week and with a shocking free-door policy, the beloved T Bar is back with one hell of a line up. Unlike sat down with Jaime Ritchie, the brain behind the club to discuss London nightlife, re-setting up shop and all things “T”.

NB: Could you comment on the status quo of London’s nightlife ?

Well, it has certainly been through a few changes and I suppose for a moment it felt that it was slowly disappearing. But as with everything, new shoots have started appearing and it looks like a whole new clubbing landscape is growing, of which we are really pleased to be part of.

NB:Why did T Bar close?

Our lease was up for renewal. It came at the perfect time for us. We had built our brand and learnt a lot at the Tea Building. But we had also come to a natural point where we needed to take it to the next level.

NB:Why does T Bar reopen? Why at this location?

We are re-opening because we have a lot more we want to do! This location is a real find for us. The venue has a unique feel to it which I, and it seems everyone who has seen it, warmed to instantly. In addition to that the license is considerably later and we don’t have the worry about residents nearby, which was always a concern for us at the previous site.

NB: What makes the new T Bar stand out from other clubs in London?

I think T Bar, old and new, stands out because we committed ourselves to making quality dance music available to as many people as possible because we strive to keep it free on the door. That is at times particularly problematic and requires the commitment of many people to this philosophy.

NB: T Bar is supposed to cover not only music but also arts events in the future. Are you planning to do day events as well?

We will be reopening our kitchen and subsequently our daytime service in the near future once we have got the club bedded in. I personally like getting involved with all types of events especially during the daytime as it keeps things fresh. The layout of the new venue is going to really lend itself to all sorts of possibilities.

NB:What kind of people come to T Bar?

All sorts. I think, and hope, our crowd is diverse! Keeping a free door policy means that all kinds of people can try out T Bar and our music.

T Bar re-opens on May 7th with special apperances by Michael Mayer and Jamie Jones on the decks!

Story: Window Shopping

2009-04-21T11:43:24+02:00

We can’t stop looking at Emily Webber’s blog, LondonShopFronts, a sort of anthropological look at the design and imaging of London shopfronts. While the original images are a bit dated (Webber took most of them in 2004), they create a visual vocabulary for Webber’s neighborhood, Hackney and its surroundings.

Initially interested in typography, revisiting the 2004 images spurred a new set of photographs that shift their focus from typography to entire shop fronts.

Creating a neighborhood lexicon, Webber captures something that guide books would never point out, but that introduce a city through diverse stories and personality.

Story: The Portrait issue

2009-03-18T10:36:39+01:00

Let Them Eat Cake Issue 12 dubbed, ‘The Portrait issue’ highlights the rumblings of the young London creative scene that consists of dispelling the superficial, the need for realism … and most importantly no retouching ...

LTEC have embraced some new and exciting photographers Benjamin Lennox who shot Trend Censorship and Nick Dorey for New Faces. Chanel Beauty faces the Bohemian by Illustrator Nao, and cover photographer Kiyotaka Hatanaka captures the spirit of Dada through a new era of quiet rioting. Gracing the cover for Spring is the beautiful Thea at Next and they also have a self portrait story from the hottest photographer, who we would describe as the new king of snapshot aesthetic, Mister Knotan Knot.

With more presence in the UK than ever before, look out for the new issue at your local newsagent.

Story: Digital Design Tournament

2009-03-10T14:14:49+01:00

Nearly a thousand spectators showed up in 2007 to watch Cut & Paste’s third New York digital design competition—proof of a growing interest in the world of design. What steps are involved in the creative process? How do different designers churn out the perfect product or graphic? The Cut and Paste competition, launched for the first time in New York in 2005, was devised with the intention of answering these questions by exposing every step of the artistic process. In each tournament, rival designers are put in the spotlight. Given a theme on which to base their design, they work on stage under a huge projection screen that shows exactly what they are penciling, penning, erasing, cutting and pasting. This may sound nerve-wracking, and it is. But that is exactly what makes the Cut and Paste tournaments so exciting.

This year, Cut & Paste has planned its largest tournament calendar yet. The tour kicked off with a bang in LA, followed by recent stops in San Francisco and Portland. After hitting Boston, New York, Toronto and Chicago, founder John Fiorelli will take his competition trans-Atlantic to Europe.

A Digital Design Tournament of extreme proportions

The first stop on the list is Amsterdam, a fine starting point for immaculate design. London the world’s most prominent center for design—is the tournament’s second stop in Europe. The disproportional number of designers in the city means that competition for fame is already high. Cut & Paste brings this rivalry between young and emerging artists onto the stage of London’s Coronet theater—making for an interesting contrast between a historic building and the high-tech activity of Cut and Paste.

Though London will be a hard act to follow, Berlin and Barcelona are both quickly becoming important centers of art and design in Europe and their competitions will no doubt have you on the edge of your seat.

Finally, Cut & Paste in Shanghai is another platform that bridges the gap between historic and modern. The city where ancient temples and brand new skyscrapers coexist presents both an inspiration and a challenge for young Chinese designers as they attempt to satisfy both the traditional and the contemporary.

Story: Burberry 2009/10

2009-03-09T15:07:10+01:00

Since its establishment in 1856, at the height of the Victorian era, the British label Burberry has stood for classic elegance and enduring quality – and now, of course, Kate Moss stars in its campaigns.

Want to see the latest in Burberry chic? Check out the Fall/Winter 2009/10 Womenswear Show Part #1 to find out what Lily and Agyness will wear next…

Story: Banksy is Back

2009-03-04T11:00:11+01:00

Wooster Collective via Jeremy Gibbs is on Banksy’s trail, noting that after a lull in the graffiti artist’s activity, he is back, with two new pieces.

If any Unlike reader can identify where in London the pieces are located (we want proof, graffiti sleuths!), we will award you with a prize.

Get graffiti hunting!

Guide: A Gentlemen's Guide

2009-02-20T14:49:50+01:00

With niche boutiques popping up all over town and still a myriad of options for upscale grooming, the capital’s fashion-conscious are better served than ever before. As a neat antidote to this year’s firmly female-centric London Fashion Week, we’ve rounded up the best menswear offerings in town.

From outlandish up-start designer boutiques to dapper bespoke tailors, deluxe barbers, chic stationers and vintage bargain dens, Unlike’s deft team of shrewd shoppers and sharp-eyed retail darlings have scoured the city’s best fashion outposts to bring you the dandy’s guide to the best of gentlemen’s shopping.