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Issue 9 • Summer 2021 real people, real places, real life

Let’s talk about Mill Road Is your dinner from a dark kitchen? Localism at the heart of a new Cambridge Central stop off for coffee and chocolate + Loads Of Indie Goodness Indies in The Indie Features Welcome Scott’s All Day 12 Welcome to the ninth outing of The Indie – described Let’s talk about by a local author as ‘Cambridge’s coolest publication’! Urban Larder 12 We’ll take that. The Three Horseshoes, Madingley 13 Mill Road Of course, what makes it cool, are our amazing Indie A year on from the introduction great reasons to be more Stem & Glory 13 Members who have battled through the last year, of the bus gate on Mill Road and continue to do so, in order to bring something Cambridge Juice Company 14 bridge and opinion in the local positive to the local community. If we have all learnt * community is divided. We spoke The Locker Cafe 14 anything over the last 12 months, it’s to appreciate and to some indie traders to get their support what we all have right here on our doorstep. The Garden Kitchen At Kettle’s Yard 15 thoughts. Page 4 I think most of us are feeling that we should actually  Meadows Cambridge 15 do some things differently and live better lives, more Cambridge Fruit Company 16 connected to the place in which we live and less in the thrall of big business, rather than returning to how we OliveOlive 16 5 lived pre-pandemic. Is your dinner Mill Road Butchers 17 2 If this message chimes with you, take a look at the page 1 it feels good: you can talk to local Bacchanalia 17 from a dark opposite and join us in our quest to make things better! around 60p of each £1 spent locally people who often have a great deal goes back into the local economy David Parr House 18 of expertise about what you are kitchen? compared with a measley 5p if you about to spend your hard-earned Street Food Box 18 Judging by the number of cycle spend it online or out-of-town couriers on our streets, our desire cash on CB Travel Guide 19 for takeaway deliveries appears to 5 Chapel Street Bed & Breakfast 19 be just as strong as it was during lockdowns. But do you know Fen Ditton Gallery 20 where your dinner is actually Babylon Arts 20 being prepared? Page 6 Bleach Box Gallery 21 3 Art Hound Gallery 21 fresher food, better service Sew Knit Craft 22 Localism at the and greater choice of Nomads 22 products Helen Handmade Books 23 heart of a new Knitting Needle Lane 23 Cambridge Oxwash 24 Coming out of the most difficult of times, if we want to build Woodland Wishes 24 a more resilient and better Taank Optometrists 25 Cambridge, then we should look Anne Beamish to place the local agenda at its | Founder and Editor Clare Kenward Flowers 25 heart. Page 7 Go Glass 26 Indie Cambridge Cooke, Curtis & Co 26 Publisher | PHL Publishing Limited Felicity White Interiors 27 www.indiecambridge.com Linford Joinery 27 Central stop off email |[email protected] Radcliffe & Rust 28 for coffee and Telephone | 01223 529041 Art of Flooring 28 chocolate Mobile | 07712 044160 Peter Harrison Furniture 29 There have been some changes Founder and editor | Anne Beamish down at the Grand Arcade – and Eve Waldron Design 29 Steve Linford they’re all very deliciously indie as Creative director | KCP Furniture & Finishing 30 Cambridge’s city centre shopping Feature writers | Louise Cummings, Louise Martin, Cambridge Steiner School 30 arcade helps more independents Sarah Ingram, Anne Beamish  become part of the mix. Page 8 5 Babouris: The HMO Agency 31 Main Photographers | Julian Eales and Ian Olsson. it feels right: when you shop indie Additional material: Steve Linford you are more likely to be able to Cambridge Classics 31 trace where stuff comes from and it Websters Cambridge Limited 32 Printed by | Langham Press also reduces your carbon footprint 4 The Innovation Practice 32 © PHL Publishing Limited 2021. All rights reserved. Without limiting Front cover image | the more indies we have, the more the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication The Garden Kitchen At Kettle’s Yard character our City has – who wants to live Cambridge Money Coaching 33 may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any in a clone-town full of sheep who buy what form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording Advertising sales | 07712 044160 Sarah Ingram, Writer 33 or otherwise, without prior permission of the copyright owner. All the big chains tell them to? photography in this publication is copyright and cannot be reproduced The Photography Place 34 without permission. We gratefully acknowledge the use of photography Hello Lovely Design 34 that has been supplied to us. Our partners Errors and omissions The contents and features in this publication have been compiled and @IndieCamb IndieCambridge published in good faith. The publisher cannot accept any liability for * If you are interested in finding out more, drop an email to [email protected] See inside back cover any claim howsoever arising, including as a result of any person acting or refraining from acting on the contents, and whether any resultant indie.cambridge loss is direct or indirect. already in place and would be a huge help to traders up and down Mill Road. One big plus Daniel has seen is the steep reduction in the number of road accidents outside his shop. This corner is particularly dangerous and ‘hits’ and ‘near misses’ were an almost daily occurrence before the bridge restrictions were put in place. So, some peace on that front at least for Daniel!

It’s safe to say that anyone who lives on or off Mill Road or has any cause to visit, has an opinion on the current situation. Residents, visitors, traders and those making deliveries to the area, have all had to adjust to the new layout – with some being in favour; some liking it but seeking a few modifications (such as access for blue badge holders), and some against. A year ago, there was, understandably, massive uncertainty amongst the independent business owners along the road as to what effect this would have on their trade. This will probably never be truly known with it coming at the time of successive lockdowns and restrictions, but a year on, we went and spoke with some of the Mill Still very much open for business Road indies to find out what the thinking is now. Directly opposite the butchers is Scott’s All Day – home to bottomless brunches, cracking pizzas and of course Scott himself. Both Scott and his customers have definitely A better working environment been enjoying the more ‘European feel’ to Mill Road, but like Jef, he doesn’t have a good We started our exploration on the Romsey side of the bridge at Life on a Bike, an word to say for the build-outs. Flexibility to the restrictions (maybe experimenting with independent cycle shop owned by former mountain bike champion Jef Sharp. Most access just at certain times), could be an option he mused, but a definite in Scott’s mind importantly for Jef, was the fact that none of his customers had any complaints about is better and clearer signage – at the bridge itself and at the two ends of Mill Road to let the new scheme – which as a shop owner surely has to be the overriding factor. On a people know it’s still very much open for business. personal note, he was happy with a better working environment – cleaner air and no Just as in Romsey with three new indies opening in 2020, Petersfield too has a newcomer long queues of traffic pumping fumes into his shop, but the build-outs got a big thumbs in the form of Richard Stokes and Jay Scrimshaw aka the Fin Boys fish butchery. Already down from him for their sheer ugliness. operating online, according to Richard, there just was no question of opening in bricks A short stroll across the road brought us to a relative newbie – Eclipse Bakery. The little and mortar form anywhere other than Mill Road – traffic or no traffic, it was the indie sister shop of Dulcedo in Eddington, Eclipse opened on Mill Road in November 2020, scene that they wanted to be a part of. so for co-owner Joanna Hajduk, a traffic-jam free Mill Road is all they’ve known. Having said that, Joanna noted she had previously used Mill Road for her commute out of the city centre, so was all too familiar with the queues of traffic. Echoing Jef’s comments, many of Joanna’s customers (predominantly local residents), all commented on how much they preferred Mill Road now, and Joanna too thought how nice it was in the evenings for people enjoying socialising safely outside.

Customers said they loved it Just along from Eclipse, another newcomer to the road, Clare Cook and her florist shop The Flower Project, also opened in 2020, and, similarly has only traded in Mill Road as it is today also didn’t know Mill Road as any different from today. But, once again, Clare pointed to how much her customers said they loved it, how welcoming many of the other traders had been, and how much she loved Mill Road too.

Our final visit was to long-established Mill Road indie and world food emporium, Al-Amin. Which is fitting as we wanted to give the last and most important words on this to its owner Abdul Arain. Abdul has been an active member of the Mill Road community for many years, and through his involvement with the Winter Fair, has It’s been just over a year since changes to the flow of traffic on Mill championed unity and cohesion along the length of the road. On a practical level, Let’s talk about Mill Road Road Bridge were introduced, temporarily restricting it to all vehicles the ability to do deliveries and to receive them easily is important, but above that, except buses, cycles and pedestrians – and it seems scooters! These maintaining the sense of connection between the two sides of the bridge – both trial measures (technical term: ‘Modal Filters’) were put in place by physically and in terms of opinions, he feels is crucial. Cambridge County Council under an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), enabling them to make changes to road layouts in Unite the whole of the community response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Separate to the trial, are the (less In other words, what’s happening to Mill Road should unite the whole of the than beautiful) white and red ‘build outs’ dotted along Mill Road, community, residents and traders, rather than divide them. Recent headlines such as designed to slow down traffic and help people social distance on the ‘Mill Road at War’ and ‘Mill Road branded a danger zone’ are really not helpful. They narrow pavements. Following any ETRO there has to be a period of Over the bridge (on foot) to Petersfield, for a quick chat with Daniel Northrop from may sell newspapers and provide perfect clickbait, but they are one-sided and do more to consultation which is where things currently stand. We decided to find Mill Road Butchers. There’s been a butcher’s shop on the corner of Mill Road and damage community cohesion and put people off visiting and enjoying Cambridge’s most out how people feel about the changes. Devonshire Road since the early 1900s, so there’s bound to have been one or two changes in that time! Generally pro in favour of the new-look Mill Road, allowing independent of roads, than the restrictions on the bridge do. traders to do deliveries over the bridge would be on his wish list of outcomes from the consultation. This would be possible with the number plate recognition system that’s

4 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 5 Deliveroo don’t deliver Localism at the heart of a new Cambridge Is your dinner from a dark kitchen?

Here at Indie Cambridge, we always take great interest in any newcomers to the local hospitality scene – visiting as many of them as our waistlines and wallets will allow. But over the last 12 months we, like many others, have often relied on takeaway hot food, whizzed to us through the streets of Cambridge and delivered to our door on the back of a cycle courier. Of course, many of the restaurants we used were familiar to us, so when we heard about some new kids on the block, we had to go and investigate – particularly as, intriguingly, they all appeared to have the same address. This is what we found. Let’s start off with the definition of a restaurant – ‘a place where people pay Amazon thinks it’s a great idea to sit and eat meals that are cooked and served on the premises’ – lovely! The The positive spin on dark kitchens is that it allows new businesses to test new ‘restaurants’ (as they were called), we had been alerted to, all featured the water when launching a new idea. They don’t have to pay for premises on the Deliveroo website, so we checked the address and postcode, jumped and the marketing is done for them by the delivery platform – ie Deliveroo. on our trusty bikes and headed off to enjoy good food and the ambience This may be true in some cases, but we think Deliveroo has a much greedier of eating out we had so missed during lockdown. Strangely, rather than agenda. We already know about the eye-watering commission rates they heading into central Cambridge, our route took us over the railway tracks to charge to local indie restaurants, but it looks as though their next move will Coldham’s Road Industrial Estate. be to cut small business owners out of the deal all together. Their method is to cleverly collect all the customer data they need from the restaurants When is a restaurant not a restaurant? on their platform, then promote their own dark kitchen offerings to those The photograph below shows you what greeted us and the list details all customers which were originally hard-won by indie restaurants. Cutting out the so-called restaurants with this address. Welcome to Cambridge’s dark the indies and operating from cheap industrial areas means fatter profits for kitchens. Also known as virtual kitchens, cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens or the shareholders, which include Amazon who think its such a cunning plan delivery-only restaurants, dark kitchens are ‘food service business that serve that they recently pumped in $575 million for a 16% stake. customers exclusively by delivery based on phone orders or online food Thankfully, in Cambridge, there is an alternative. Foodstuff was set up last ordering’ (Wikipedia). If you use Deliveroo, you can spot if your dinner is year when restaurants and cafes were forced to close. Independently-owned coming from a dark kitchen as there will be a purple ‘Editions’ logo on the and working only with independent cafes and restaurants (they work on a flat page. We’re not convinced that really makes it clear that the food comes from fee rather than commission), if you want to a dark kitchen, in fact it seems to make it sound quite tempting. But we don’t Kath Kidson, Top Shop, Wallis, Burton, Evans, Debenhams – just some of the Reimagining the high street make sure your dinner is not only delicious think that clarity is really what Deliveroo is aiming for. familiar names that will no longer make up the high street retail offering Flexibility and innovation are also key, and some Cambridge high street landlords are but also helping rather than harming local in Cambridge. The headlines proclaim, ‘more high street losses due to already talking about rent linked to turnover, rent-free periods, and more flexible contract “So what?”, we hear you cry. “Why does it matter who cooks my dinner as indies – then Foodstuff is the delivery service Covid’, but if you read on, the repeating story is one of already-struggling terms and retail spaces. In London, landlords of the London Designer outlet, have been long as I don’t have to!”. If that’s you, that’s fine – we’re not in the business for you. businesses for which Covid acted as a turbo-boost straight to the doors of of telling people what they should or shouldn’t do. Of course, everyone has using the ‘rent linked to turnover’ model for the last 7 years, which they’ve credited Visit the administrators. a choice, we just think it’s better for everyone if that choice is an informed www.wearefoodstuff.co.uk with creating a symbiotic relationship between landlord and tenant. In good times, both one. It looks to us as though this US-style corporate (it was actually founded Be more Indie! Bigger than Covid, our love-affair with online shopping has done far more parties benefit and in less favourable times, both have an incentive to seek improvements. in the UK) is in fact setting about removing your choice, by forcing the small damage to bricks and mortar retail than the virus. And of course, with It creates a better, more healthy working relationship and means landlords are more in restaurants they began trading with out of business. successive lockdowns, let’s just say it’s no surprise that last year Amazon’s tune with what is actually happening and therefore able to enhance the visitor experience. UK sales increased by 51%. Let’s face it, it’s unlikely that a fresh wave of large retailers is going to appear on the horizon to take over any empty units, and with the recent news that The Grafton is Indies to the rescue up for sale, its days as purely a retail destination are surely numbered. So, let’s take this But, in the early days of the first lockdown interesting things started to happen too – and opportunity to create a vibrant city centre to include more than just shops. We need a Amazingly all of these ‘Restaurants’ are in this tiny building:* they were very much on a local level. Whilst some people struggled to open accounts for city where people can get everything they need in a thriving space, free from the tyranny home deliveries from the big supermarkets, being of traffic and the health-threat from its fumes. The increased daily activity of the people Dishoom The Athenian Ben & Jerry’s Store told they might have to wait up to 6 weeks, small based right in the heart of the city will be good business for all. And with a focus on independent businesses came to the rescue. local indies, rather than corporate chains, the local economy will be in even better shape. Clodagh McKenna At Home The Athenian Plant Based The Ice Cream Store The Cambridge Fruit Company, for example, who Many cities around the world are embracing similar concepts, often called the ’15-minute Nomi Katsu Pleesecakes Trip CBD Store had lost their office-based customers, pivoted their community’ with shops, recreational facilities, workplaces, services, and educational Poke Fuzion Halo Top Shake Shack business overnight to offer delivery to residents institutions all within 15 minutes of where people live. instead, and independent cafes and restaurants made And new property classifications brought in last year have the potential to reshape our high Zumuku Ahi Poke VIP Very Italian Pizza huge changes to their operations in order to serve street and along with changes to permitted development rights, could see some city centre local customers and stay in business. properties changing to residential. Good? Bad? We don’t know yet, but what we do know And while our city centre remained quiet, people is it needs a plan, with all stakeholders involved, with residents and community at its core working from home increasingly wanted (and and not left completely to market forces. After all, this is a once-in a lifetime opportunity to needed) to shop closer to where they live. The boom connect the people who live here with their city and build a more resilient Cambridge. in takeaways from local restaurants and demand for services that still can’t be delivered online, shows that despite the stark retail numbers, the pandemic has definitely prompted a resurgence in the indie sector. The Romsey side of Mill Road bridge alone saw three new outlets open in 2020, and although it’s been the hardest 12 months for all the businesses we work with, all of them are still trading.

Building resilience And things were already happening to reflect these changing consumer habits. Before the pandemic hit, Indie Cambridge had started, and continues to have, conversations with the Grand Arcade who are actively embracing more local traders as part of their mix. Encouraging and incentivising local residents to head back to our high street (especially now the tourists have gone), should be a challenge taken up by all stakeholders in both the private and public sectors. And all this local activity will help Cambridge build resilience – which is exactly what 2020 taught us we need. Localism has to be at the heart of our recovery plan. It will also * Correct at time of going to press feed into the environmental agenda – increasingly part of consumer decision making and an important part of the inevitable changes coming our way.

6 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 7 Central stop-off for coffee and chocolate There have been some changes down at the Grand Arcade – and they’re all very deliciously indie. Chocolat Chocolat have made a sweet move inside the centre and their old store on Regent Street is now the home to coffee, cycling and culture in the form of Espresso Library’s first new capsule café concept. So of course, we had to go and take a look…

Blending coffee, cycling and So good they named it twice! Whether it’s warming up with one of their award-winning hot chocolate shots, culture cooling down with a special seasonally flavoured ice cream, savouring their best- In the most difficult trading times the high street has ever known, it’s heartening selling caramel, praline and sea salt bars or attending one of their chocolate making to hear when a large retail centre steps in to help a passionate indie business owner courses, Chocolat Chocolat has become somewhat of an institution for Cambridge realise his dream. For John Gull, there are certain passions in life that are just too residents and visitors alike. But it’s not just what they make and sell that makes it so good not to share – coffee, cycling and art – which is why in 2015, John opened popular – it’s how the shop looks that keeps customers returning again and again. Espresso Library on East Road. It soon became a regular destination for local coffee With its stylish and theatrical ‘Parisienne’ feel, it may not be a surprise to know fans and cycling enthusiasts, and with its rolling programme of art exhibitions, that’s exactly where Chocolat Chocolat was born. culture vultures were more than happy too. With things going well, next on John’s Owners Isabelle and Robin Chappell were previously based in France where they wish list was to open a second venue – this time in the heart of Cambridge – not ran the French franchise for Monsoon’s Accessorize outlets. After selling the business an easy move for an independent business, but with help and incentives offered back to the UK owners, the couple bought commercial premises in Paris which by the team at the Grand Arcade, in December 2020, Espresso Library found its just so happened to be a chocolate shop – and so their new journey began. From a springboard into the city centre. Taking over the lease from Chocolat Chocolat for chance meeting in Germany with Peter Thornton (yes, of Thornton’s chocolate!), he the Regent Street-facing shop, the location is perfect for this first ‘capsule’ version of encouraged them to bring their unique boutique style of chocolatiering to the UK. Espresso Library and its superior blend of coffee, cycling and culture. Luckily for us, Chocolat Chocolat chose Cambridge and opened its beautiful shop Heather Stowell creates Offering coffee and healthy ‘light-bite’ style food, it caters both for those on the in 2009. Fast forward to today and the move to the new indoor location within the unique, eye-catching move as well as providing an artistically decorated space for sitting inside. With the Grand Arcade has allowed Isabelle and Robin to expand and really show off their Cambridge community very much at its heart, members of many of the University’s wonderful product range in a dedicated chocolate showcase of a store. contemporary jewellery sporting clubs enjoy a free drink offer, and for cyclists of all abilities, there’s the Whereas before the chocolate was made on the premises at their shop, now (even made from selected vintage Espresso Library Cycling Club with regular organised rides and a dedicated though you wouldn’t know it), under your very feet, in the depths of the Grand buttons, handmade in silver. Facebook group. Of course, you don’t have to be a cyclist to enjoy the Espresso Arcade – delicious chocolate is being made, ready to sell to the many happy Library experience, John is very keen to share his many enthusiasms with all. customers above. She carefully selects buttons and other quirky charms Espresso Library Chocolat Chocolat like thimbles and coins, then 21 St Andrew’s Street, Cambridge CB2 3BJ Ground Floor, Grand Arcade www.espressolibrary.com www.chocolatchocolat.co.uk hand sets and in silver or gold and arranging them in a completely unique way, a lovely way to preserve their fine workmanship. Heather can be commissioned to set clients ‘own’ buttons or other personal pieces, whether to make a special family piece, or keep sake, or to create a truly personal gift for a birthday or wedding and of course each and every design is completely unique.

www.heatherstowell.com Telephone 07801 570068

8 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 9 Indie intros Julian Eales Photography Throughout the following pages, we’re going to introduce you to a selection of our are featured opposite. Capturing the people behind the business and showcasing the Telephone 01954 201818 or 07527 476531 wonderful Indie Members. Some are from our local high streets, others are skilled trades amazing work they do, just goes to show the incredible diversity, skills and knowledge www.ealesphotography.co.uk people, and yet more are from the business community, but they are all passionate about that’s at the core of the indie sector. After all, it’s all about real people, real places and real what they do, and about supporting each other and the local independent scene. If it lives! wasn’t for our members, we wouldn’t do what we do. To see features on all our members, visit the Indie Cambridge website In his own words Julian Eales is obsessive about photography. His love of capturing life’s Two very important members of our Indie community are the two guys we send out to www.indiecambridge.com special moments and places was a welcome creative outlet during his 30-year career in take all the fantastic photos you see in this magazine – Ian Olsson and Julian Eales – who the public sector and, when he retired 10 years ago, he decided to turn his hobby into his day job with Eales Photography.

Indie Cambridge members 2021 (at time of going to press) He hasn’t looked back since and over the last decade the freelance photographer has helped hundreds of clients across Cambridgeshire and beyond secure their perfect images. Julian is experienced in all genres of photography, including landscapes, portraits, news, property, music, corporate, events, travel and video. His work has appeared in national newspapers, and he won the Sunday Times Award in the Landscape Photographer of the Year 2017 – the winning shot was of a picturesque field of linseed and poppies near Royston. Over the last year, Julian has found his work shifting more towards the commercial side of photography. Travel has been confined to local areas, weddings postponed, and as many businesses are emerging and reshaping after lockdown, they need new photos and video to help promote and boost their image. He’s been busy shooting shops, restaurants, shopping malls, musical instrument manufacturers, art galleries and of course local independent companies for The Indie! One of his favourite Indie photos Artists & Galleries Homes & gardens Professional + Business Services was for Felicity White Interiors with Felicity standing in front of two brightly coloured doors – perfect for an interior designer! Art Hound Gallery Art of Flooring Cambition IT Services Julian still loves being outside, seeking out a dramatic landscape or image for a national Babylon Arts Babouris Cambridge Money Coaching newspaper. He also very much enjoys working with people – some of whom may be Darryl Nantais Gallery Cambridge Classics Cambridge Payroll Ltd nervous or unsure of being photographed – so his challenge is to put people at ease, Fen Ditton Gallery Clare Kenward Flowers Clarendon Street Veterinary Surgery get the photos they need, with a minimum of fuss and discomfort, ideally with the Richard Heeps/ Bleach Box Gallery Cooke, Curtis & Co CMResource photographer and subject working together to create something special. The Artists’ Marquee Felicity White Interiors Eve Waldron Interior Design Go Glass Ltd Go Vocal Video Henry Rose Interiors Hello Lovely Design KCP Furniture and Finishing Ian Olsson Wedding Photography Linford Joinery Julian Eales Photography Peter Harrison Furniture Katie Underwood Providence Krishna Solanki Designs Radcliffe & Rust Langham Press Rebecca Orde Ltd Lenka Koppova, Social Media Consultant Ian Olsson Wedding Photography Small and Green Oxwash Sylvia Newman Garden Design Sarah Ingram - writer Telephone 01223 226132 or 07731 379727 Sarah Massie Consulting www.ianolssonweddings.com Studio 24 Cafes, food + drink Sue Walden, Business Development Consultant The Innovation Practice Al-Amin An extraordinary childhood growing up in some of the world’s most picture-perfect The Photography Place Amelie locales, from Thailand and Turkey to Bahrain and Brunei inspired a spirit of wanderlust Websters Cambridge Ltd Bacchanalia in Ian Olsson from an early age. With breath-taking beaches, stunning temples and Woodland Wishes Bridges Café phenomenal scenery on his doorstep, he began shooting his surroundings on his faithful Zedify Burwash Larder Minolta camera. And so began a love affair with photography, which has seen him Café Abantu carve out a successful career in the industry and earn a reputation for his creativity, Cambridge Cookery friendliness and professionalism. Cambridge Fruit Company Ian became a full-time photographer over a decade ago and loves living in Cambridge Cambridge Juice Company with wife Hannah, a BBC journalist, and cute cockapoo puppy, Leo. Hot Numbers Roastery Retail Meadows Cambridge Ian has always loved photographing weddings, saying they’re the perfect combination of Mill Road Butchers Backstitch portraits, action shots, close up details and landscapes, plus everyone is always in such a OliveOlive Cuckoo happy mood! His relaxed, friendly and natural style has led him to photograph over 200 Pint Shop Kingsway Cycles (also services) wonderful weddings. You’ll find him quietly in the background capturing all the fun, Scott’s All Day Knitting Needle Lane excitement and emotion. Stem & Glory Laird Hatters He knows from his own wedding how much effort goes into all the details and how Lilac Rose Street Food Box Culture, Learning & Leisure quickly the day goes by, so it’s a privilege to be able to preserve these memories for The Country Kitchen Nomads couples. Talking of preserving memories, Ian is keen to point out how seriously he The Edge Café Sew Knit Craft Ltd 5 Chapel Street Bed & Breakfast takes his backups. After sadly losing everything in a house fire recently, a couple whose The Garden Kitchen Taank Optometrists (also services) Cambridge Music Festival wedding he photographed ten years ago got in touch, thinking there was no way he The Locker Cafe The Cambridge Fabric Company Cambridge Steiner School would still have their precious photos. How excellent to say he still had them! The Plough Shepreth CB Travel Guide The Three Horseshoes, Madingley Child Pose As well as the enjoyment of the day itself, Ian loves receiving feedback from his wedding Urban Larder David Parr House couples. His photos are often described as ‘fantastic’, ‘beautiful’, and ‘absolutely amazing’. Form the Future Helen Handmade Books Ian has photographed weddings all over the UK and Europe, but it’s hard to beat some If you’re a local indie and would like to join us call Anne Beamish on 07712 044160 Literature Cambridge of the stunning venues we have on our doorstep in Cambridgeshire, from the majestic email [email protected] or visit joinindiecambridge.com Milan Fitness colleges to rustic DIY tipi weddings on the family farm, and everything in between. South Cambridgeshire Equestrian Centre

10 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 11 Scott’s All Day The Three Horseshoes, Madingley

111-113 Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 2AZ High Street, Madingley, Cambridge CB23 8AB Telephone 01223 311105 Telephone 01954 210221 www.scottsallday.com www.threehorseshoesmadingley.co.uk

Opening a new restaurant on Cambridge’s Mill Road – a melting pot of global cuisine If a village has a really good pub, then it has a heart. Of course, what makes a good pub and culture – was always going to be a brave move. But Scott’s All Day, which launched will mean different things to different people, but The Three Horseshoes in Madingley in the summer of 2019, has already proved itself a delicious and welcome addition scores highly with everyone who visits. to the city’s most independent of roads. The brainchild of Scott Holden, the friendly The pub is owned by Cambscuisine who are well-known locally for their top-quality neighbourhood dining spot, is inspired by Scott’s passion for food and travel. hospitality venues – all eight of them. But make no mistake, this is no corporate chain – A foodie from an early age, Scott has worked at some of London’s best casual restaurants, it’s very much an indie business with its roots firmly planted in Cambridgeshire soil. including The Pig and Butcher and Smokehouse. Moving to Cambridge with wife Rachel It’s this passion for the area which has helped make The Three Horseshoes such a sought- six years ago, he managed Fitzbillies, before travelling to Vancouver and New York, out place to eat and drink – just look at the positive reviews online. Managed and run running a barbecue restaurant, and visiting diners and delis from Brooklyn to the Bronx by Rob Tyzack and his team of 18, the atmosphere is welcoming to all. As well as the working for Rebel Kitchen. Keen to emulate the New York café vibe and recognising a dedicated conservatory-style dining area, Rob has made sure the pub is as inviting for need to give the ‘all-day brunch option’ a home in Cambridge, Scott’s All Day was born. those who just want to sit with a drink in the bar – as many a regular does. A bright, airy space, created from two century-old shop fronts, Scott’s has a pared-back Like all Cambscuisine locations, the food is consistently great quality with a focus on feel, with Williamsburg-inspired exposed brick. traditional favourites but always with an innovative twist. At The Three Horseshoes, you Brunches are hearty and indeed bottomless! Available at both lunch and dinner sittings, will find pub classics and Sunday roasts, seasonal variations, thoughtful and interesting Scott not only serves up plate after plate of stonking, freshly prepared food, he’s vegetarian and vegan options, and a particular reputation for excellent fresh fish dishes, embraced the international store cupboard that is Mill Road. Top-quality meat comes all proving just how much the team care about the food they prepare and serve. from neighbouring indie Mill Road Butchers, and beer is literally rolled down the road in Outside, the pub has a tranquil country garden with more seating, and which recently kegs from nearby Calverley’s Brewery. saw the exciting new addition of some very funky dining pods. Brought in due to As well as brunch, Scotts is getting a reputation for its amazing pizzas. The sourdough the Covid situation, these private pods have proved so popular, they are staying. Very bases, created at Fitzbillies Bakery, feature an array of delicious toppings, and are ready in comfortably seating up to six people, the pods come with heating, lighting, wifi, speakers one minute, cooked in an Italian rotating gas-fired pizza oven at 388 degrees. for music and an intercom system. So, whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a business meeting, you can feel relaxed and safe and enjoy dining in your very own pod. So far, a massive hit with families, locals and visitors, thanks to its ever-evolving menu, utilising tremendous local ingredients, Scott’s has certainly found its niche on Cambridge’s most cosmopolitan street.

Urban Larder Stem & Glory

9 The Broadway, Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 3AH 50/60 Station Road, Cambridge CB1 2JH Telephone 01223 212462 Telephone 01223 757150 www.urbanlarder.co.uk www.stemandglory.uk

It’s true to say that both sides of Mill Road bridge are well-served for places to satisfy your With its imaginative plant-based menu, popping with mouth-watering umami flavours, coffee fix. On the Romsey side (recently described as ‘one of the hippest neighbourhoods Stem & Glory has been a runaway success from day one. Indeed, when Louise Palmer- in Britain’), there is however, one particular indie establishment that’s gone that little bit Masterton opened the doors of the first restaurant – housed within her then Camyoga further and become not just a great coffee shop, but also a real destination for visitors as business on Mitcham’s Corner – she was expecting a lunchtime rush but was taken aback well as a hub for the local community. when diners piled through the door well into the evening. And that’s pretty much set the pace for this trailblazing indie, which has undergone a rapid growth trajectory, in line Owner Duncan Mason and his team have been running Urban Larder since 2015. with an exponential shift towards ethical living and plant-based cuisine. During this time, they’ve become known as ‘the larder family’ which accurately describes the genuinely warm and friendly atmosphere created by the country-modern vibe of Just a year after launching Stem & Glory (thanks to a successful Crowdfunding the interior as well as all who work there. Over the last 14 months, they’ve also proved campaign), Louise opened a second premises on King Street, followed by a restaurant in themselves versatile – switching to takeaway-only and for a while, operating a ‘kerbside’ London’s Bart’s Square in 2019; such was the buzz around the opening, the Crowdfund service through the large sash window at the front of the shop. hit its £350,000 target on its first day! Going forward, the aim is to get some seating back in the shop as soon as it’s possible. During lockdown, with her bricks-and-mortar branches closed, Louise launched an Duncan says, “it’s been great to stay open in some capacity during most of lockdown online shop, offering scrumptious ready meals and recipe kits (think Swede Gnocchi, and continue to see friendly faces. We really can’t thank our customers enough for the Kimchi Pancakes, artisan pasta and vegan pizza with pack-a-punch toppings such as BBQ support, but we are keen to get back to some sense of normality as soon as we’re able to, Pineapple and Italian ‘Sausage’). and get back to being our relaxed, smiling selves.” This summer Louise – supported by husband Jim, ‘a massive foodie’ who heads up Longer term, Duncan remains optimistic about plans for the Larder that have had to be operations – launched Cambridge’s flagship Stem & Glory restaurant. Located in CB1, it put on hold due to the pandemic. In the meantime, they continue to serve great coffee seats 72, and boasts an expansive terrace, perfect for alfresco breakfast, brunch, or casual from Bury St Edmunds’ supplier Butterworth & Son, alongside an indulgent mix of fine dining. cakes, amazing toasties on Grain Culture’s sourdough, and tasty salads. Whatever the Executive chef Ed Al Subaei has devised an exciting gourmet menu, with signature dishes challenges, the welcome remains warm and beneath those masks, don’t worry, the smiles including Asian Watermelon Salad, Glorious Bourguignon and even a Dirty Burger! are still as broad as ever. Unlike many vegan eateries, Stem & Glory refuse to serve ‘fake meat’, using culinary wizardry and top-quality ingredients to create depth of flavour and a true gastronomic experience. No wonder they have been awarded Best Restaurant in Cambridge and Best Vegan Restaurant in London (and Louise just crowned Cambridge SME Businesswoman of the Year!). Never has plant-based dining been more appealing.

12 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 13 Cambridge Juice Company The Garden Kitchen At Kettle’s Yard

Telephone 01763 269950 or 0751 528 2900 Kettle’s Yard, Castle Street, Cambridge CB3 0AQ www.cambridgejuicecompany.com Telephone 01223 761884 [email protected] www.thegardenkitchencambridge.co.uk

It’s fair to say the team at Cambridge Juice Company know their fruit. Founded 100 You may well have sampled the delights of Garden Kitchen on a visit to their café in years ago by C. A. Lowe as a popular fruit and vegetable stall on Cambridge market, the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, or at their more urban location on Mill Road, family business has thrived and this May will be celebrating its 21st year as a leading but now you can enjoy a mix of café and culture with a visit to their site at Cambridge’s drinks wholesaler. renowned contemporary art gallery, Kettle’s Yard. With directors Matt Gray and Kelly Richardson at the helm, Cambridge Juice It really is a dream location – close to the city centre, housed within the recently Company offers a choice of 250 products to its ever-growing customer base made up of developed gallery building, and with the added advantage in the summer of the use of independent farm shops, delis, restaurants, cafes, colleges and small businesses across East one of Cambridge’s prettiest church gardens next door at Saint Peter’s. Of course, we Anglia, which are all delivered by the company’s friendly team of drivers. thoroughly recommend a look around the gallery and wonderful Kettle’s Yard house, but just going for the café itself is firmly on the list of ‘must visit’. Customers are spoilt for choice with a range of local, organic and Fairtrade brands to choose from, including Coldpress, the berry company, Frobishers, ONE Water and Andrew, founder of The Garden Kitchen, and his team still work to his original Cambridgeshire based Breckland Orchard Posh Pops and many more. philosophy of using quality, basic ingredients and turning them into something great. Having always had an interest in plant based, healthier meals, unsurprisingly salads, Winners of the 2021 Family Business of the Year, the team at Cambridge Juice Company soups and falafel wraps are often the stars of the counter. are passionate about championing local, family-run businesses, which is why when they decided to introduce their own branded juices four years ago, they looked no further Sustainability is key to this business and while the menu is leaning more and more to than their neighbouring apple orchard. The result was their delicious apple juice, made vegetarian, they make considered choices when sourcing everything from compostable from apples which are grown, picked and pressed in Meldreth. With no additives, no disposables to Brew Project coffee roasted just down the road in Ely. concentrate and no added sugar, it’s a hit with customers and was the second best- While this period has been extremely difficult for all in the hospitality sector, it’s great to seller of 2019, just pipped to the post by another of Cambridge Juice Company’s own see another indie taking the initiative to create a unique place in the heart of Cambridge creations, a sweet yet tangy orange and clementine juice. for all to enjoy. The deck chairs at Saint Peters will be there until September to make the Alongside the drinks range there are also a selection of snacks including artisan crisps most of this idyllic setting, and make sure you leave space for one of their delicious cakes! from Fairfield Farms and Ten Acre crisps and popcorn. Huntingdon based Glebe Farm provide a range of gluten- free items including an oat drink, cereals, flour and bakery items.

The Locker Cafe Meadows Cambridge

54 King Street, Cambridge CB1 1LN 31B Eltisley Avenue, Cambridge CB3 9JG Telephone 07566 216042 Telephone 07762 120 449 www.thelockercafe.co.uk www.meadowscambridge.com

The winning combination of artisan coffee and a mouth-watering brunch menu awaits Since the first UK supermarket opened in the 1950’s, the big chains have spent a lot you at The Locker. Add to that a tempting selection of cakes and pastries (the Portuguese of money convincing us to expect cheap food. Of course, many people exist on tight tarts are a must try) and a tasty array of homemade sandwiches and toasties and you budgets but what is the cost in other terms – the environment and the local economy for really are spoilt for choice. example? Meadows Cambridge, is on a bit of a mission, not only to source and sell the Located on King Street the bustling café is something of a dream come true for father best produce, but also to educate about a more sustainable approach to food. and son team John and Adam Hodges who opened up shop in August 2017. Retired Meadows Cambridge started life as an Eat Cambridge festival pop-up, before eventually academic John had always hoped to open his own café in his home town, and when finding its bricks and mortar home in Newnham. Originally set-up by Suzannah Wansell Adam returned to the city after a number of years spent working in a hostel in Las Vegas and business partner Emese Gengeliczki, and now run solely by Suzannah, this friendly it seemed the perfect time to take the leap. neighbourhood delicatessen, kitchen and online shop specialises in foods that are great Those familiar with King Street will recognise The Locker is located in the former tasting, healthy and kind to the environment (being daughter and granddaughter to Clowns restaurant. Aware of the long history the much-loved Cambridge institution farmers makes Suzannah a passionate supporter of regenerative farming and small, local has the family were keen to do their predecessors proud. From day one The Locker has businesses). taken great pride in serving food of the highest quality. Everything on the brunch menu Building on a long career in the specialist food sector, Suzannah – who worked at top is cooked on site as are the sandwiches, toasties and soups. All of the baked goods are delis Sheridans Cheesemongers in Dublin, Valvona & Crolla in Edinburgh and Mons supplied from local, independent businesses with sausage rolls arriving from fellow indie Cheesemongers on Borough Market in London – has curated a stunning range of Cambridge members Garden Kitchen, and bread from Stir as well as Earth’s Crust on the stock, all based on her criteria of taste, tradition, sustainability, independent status and, market square, and many of the delicious cakes are from Lemon Tree Bakery. importantly, good value. The café has a laid-back feel inspired by the family’s time spent living in Australia. There There’s chocolate from Suffolk, coffee from Norfolk and from Cambridgeshire, bread are regularly changing art exhibitions organised by Adam’s mum, Carol Gregory, and from the Allotment Bakery and fresh vegetables from COFCO and Flourish. In the the two-floor space caters for private events. Another fantastic attention to detail can kitchen, homemade cakes, cookies and fresh lunch dishes are prepared, and the superb be found in the café’s charming crockery. After taking up pottery 10 years ago John has selection of cheeses is carefully chosen from preferential batches supplied by Mons, Neal’s lovingly made most of the tableware, which is also available to buy. Yard Dairy and The Courtyard Dairy. Slightly further afield, an Italian importer brings The Locker has gone from strength to strength but don’t just take our word for it. Why a little seasonal sunshine with treats such as blood oranges, Amalfi lemons and wild not pop by and give it a try? mushrooms. Complementing the fine food is a fine selection of gifts, bags and ceramics from local artists. And, whenever possible, regular tastings are offered – allowing Meadows

Cambridge to share the love for great tasting food.

14 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 15 Cambridge Fruit Company Mill Road Butchers

14 Robert Davies Court, Nuffield Road, Cambridge CB4 1TP 114 Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 2BQ Telephone 01223 425308 Telephone 01223 354779 www.cambridgefruitcompany.com [email protected]

Neil Bharadwa launched the Cambridge Fruit Company in 2005, successfully supplying Over the last few years, the independent food scene in Cambridge has truly blossomed fresh fruit and veg to workplaces across Cambridgeshire. It’s very much a family business, into an incredible network of first-class suppliers and providers. Keeping at the top of with Neil’s sister Nisha joining about three years in – it turns out the siblings make a their game takes huge amounts of dedication, hard work and passion, but there are some great team. Mum and Dad live just around the corner too, and Mum regularly drops in indies that stay the distance – Mill Road Butchers for one. With a fantastic refurbished with samosas for lunch. shop, many of the best award-winning chefs in the city championing their produce including Mark Poynton (MJP Restaurant), Daniel Clifford (Midsummer House) and Before the Covid 19 pandemic hit, they supplied over 150 customers, including local Sam Carter (Restaurant 22), and a loyal and very happy customer base, the team at this offices, restaurants, pubs, cafes and schools. But in March 2020 everything shut, and indie gem are doing everything possible to stay firmly up there at the top. The Cambridge Fruit Company were close to losing everything – their sales virtually disappeared overnight and their world collapsed. It’s a position that builds on great tradition too. 114 Mill Road, where the Butcher’s shiny new shop is located, is a real slice of Cambridge high street history, in fact there’s Never one to give up easily, Neil responded quickly and with his typical energy and been a butcher on the same corner site since the early 1900s. Now the core team – Gary positivity. To regain some of his trade, he set about pivoting the business to serve Howlett (owner) and Daniel Northrop – are bringing things right up to date. residents instead of his traditional customer base. People started ordering fruit and veg boxes for their homes, but not just for themselves. Generosity and acts of kindness At the cornerstone of Mill Road Butchers is the welfare of the animals, which is why prevailed and as a result, Neil’s new customers started ordering extra boxes for those in their meat is sourced direct from high-quality, free-range farms and can all be traced back need – matching their orders by donating boxes to charity, namely the Red Hen Project, to its origins. Pork comes from Dingley Dell Farm in Suffolk, chickens from the Sutton as well as donating fruit and veg boxes to NHS frontline staff. Neil and the rest of the Hoo Chicken company in Woodbridge, and quails from Norfolk. The amazing choice Cambridge Fruit Company team have sent over 1000 boxes to local families in need of beef at the shop includes breeds such as Aberdeen Angus, Hereford and British Blue and the NHS, as well as keeping their business alive. They fed over 167 families over the and is all grass-fed, dry-aged and highly-marbled. The team make time for regular visits lockdown Christmas with Turkey and trimmings. to all the farms to make sure the level of quality is consistently high. They also prepare and sell cooked food including scotch eggs and sausage rolls and come game season in the In August 2020 Neil and his team were recognised by Her Majesty, through The Queen’s autumn, you can treat yourself to fallow, red deer and game birds, all sourced from local Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, for the amazing contribution they have all made private estates. to the city and its residents in a time of need. So, here they are today, moving forward as a local indie business, serving their community, and building their future for the next Finally, if you need any tips about how best to prepare and cook your purchases – just chapter. ask! Within the friendly team there’s not only years of butchery experience but also chef training too, so great advice as well as great produce.

OliveOlive Bacchanalia

Telephone 03330 115566 79 Victoria Road, Cambridge CB4 3BS www.oliveolive.co.uk Telephone 01223 576292 www.winegod.co.uk

It’s just over seven years since Rob and Pam Marsden, the founders of OliveOlive, sold Established back in 1997, Bacchanalia is your classic wine merchant, with a huge their first bottle of olive oil. The Woodhurst-based company sells beautiful extra virgin selection of wonderful wines and also some of the best beers and idiosyncratic spirits olive oil and traditional ‘Cyprus Village’ halloumi cheese, which are both produced in known to man. At Victoria Road, owner Paul Bowes is nearly always behind the desk, Cyprus, and is a real family affair. ready to recommend wines and engage in banter, and an equally warm welcome is extended to customers by Jim on the other side of the river at Bacchanalia’s sister branch Rob had reached a point in his career where he wanted to do something different to his 9-5 in Mill Road. office job and with Pam’s family hailing from Cyprus where they run their own olive farm, he saw the perfect business opportunity. With the support of nursery manager Pam, he gave Most wines stocked are in the £8 to £15 price range and Paul does a great mixed case of up his job in recruitment to set up OliveOlive and the couple hasn’t looked back since. six bottles from his ‘curated store cupboard’ wines for a fantastic £37. Paul’s knowledge is amazing, and it should be as he’s personally tried all the wines in the shop! The olive variety used to make the golden oil is known locally as the ‘Cyprus’ olive, which is handpicked and pressed in the family’s own mill within 24 hours. The olives You don’t have to stand in Bacchanalia for very long before you start to get the sense you are harvested once a year between late October and early November and the couple are in the wine equivalent of a traditional corner shop. It’s not just its location – where are usually on hand to help with the process. Once the oil has been extracted it is Victoria Road meets Holland Street – that gives it that feel, it’s more to do with the bottled onsite and transported back to OliveOlive where the labels are added before it is steady but gentle flow of customers, some of whom are obviously regulars, but who are all distributed to homes, restaurants and shops across the UK. greeted warmly and enthusiastically. Paul and the rest of team Bacchanalia’s philosophy of enjoying themselves and being nice to their customers really is at the very heart of their The extra virgin olive oil, which has been praised by top chefs including Tom Kerridge success. and James Martin, even won 2 gold stars in the prestigious Great Taste Awards 2020. It’s used in the kitchens of Cambridge’s St. Catherine’s College and The Moller Institute and Customers are of course welcome to come in and browse – in a socially distanced manner is available to buy online and in a variety of local indies including the Bushel Box Farm – but it’s also possible to get your hands on their lovely wines and beers through their Shop, Radmore Farm Shop and The Cambridge Cheese Company. website where you can download a list of the team’s current favourites as well as place your order. You can arrange to collect from either shop too and there’s a free delivery You will also find their fantastic halloumi cheese under their own brand ‘Cyprus Village’. service in central Cambridge for all orders over £50 or talk to Paul if you are further Handmade the traditional way by friends of the family in Cyprus The Stephani Cheese afield. Co. using 100 percent goats’ milk. Yet another 2 gold star winner at the 2020 Great Taste Awards and described by Pam’s mum as ‘the best halloumi in Cyprus’ (and as Rob says, “You don’t argue with your Greek mother-in-law!”), you can find Cyprus Village halloumi cheese on their online shop too. Along with Pam’s son Stefan, at the weekends the couple attend various food events and markets – just check out the ‘Events’ section on their website for full details and sample the Cypriot flavours for yourself.

16 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 17 David Parr House CB Travel Guide

184-186 Gwydir Street, Cambridge CB1 2LW Telephone 01223 269991 www.davidparrhouse.org www.cbtravelguide.co.uk [email protected]

Blink and you’ll miss the David Parr House. Located at 186, Gwydir Street, the humble For most tourists, the Cambridge to-do list might include a punt on the River Cam to terraced house, looks just like any other. But step inside and you find a truly remarkable capture that iconic view of King’s College from The Backs, or a meander around the hidden treasure – a time capsule of the Arts & Crafts era and a portal into the life of verdant Botanic Gardens. But is that the ‘real’ Cambridge? What about a pleasant wander a working man in Victorian times. Over 40 years David Parr, a working-class artist – through Mill Road Cemetery or a sticky Chelsea bun from Fitzbillies, watching the Red employed by renowned Cambridge decorative arts company F R Leach & Sons – painted Pole cows roam free on Midsummer Common or eying the lipstick graffiti of RAF pilots the walls of his abode in the style of the grand interiors he worked on. The result is on the ceiling of The Eagle? breathtaking; walls and ceilings embellished with complex patterns of interwoven foliage To uncover quintessential Cambridge, you need someone ‘in the know’, and that person and flowers, ornamental scroll motifs inscribed with quotes in bold Gothic script, is globetrotting food blogger Gerla De Boer, creator of the award-winning Cambridge magnificent carved wood cornicing and grandiose lincrustra detailing. His work with Food Tour. Dutch-born Gerla is a veritable oracle on all things Cambridge, so much so, Frederick Leach brought David Parr into contact with eminent architects and designers, that a ‘quick’ trip into the city is nigh on impossible, as she ‘loves to talk’. including William Morris, George Bodley and Charles Kempe, and their influence is evident. To share her insider knowledge of ‘off the beaten track’ Cambridge – from interesting walks to unique indie shops – Gerla has launched CB Travel Guide. The ultimate When Tamsin Wimhurst first visited the house, back in 2009 - then the home of David Cambridge travel companion, for locals and tourists alike, the online portal was created Parr’s granddaughter, Elsie Palmer - she initially thought the walls were covered in during the first lockdown of 2020. William Morris wallpaper. But Elsie, who moved there in 1927 after David Parr’s death, told Tamsin about her grandfather’s extraordinary handpainted legacy. Bright and cheerful, CB Travel Guide is packed with ideas for where to eat, drink and explore, with a focus on the unusual and unexpected, and offers the latest what’s on Tamsin was determined this masterpiece should be saved, and so began an epic listings. conservation project. Gerla, whose favourite local haunts include Café Foy on Quayside for breakfast, Fen Tamsin and husband Mike bought the house in 2013 and gifted it to the charity they set Ditton for a stroll with her dogs, The Green Dragon on Stourbridge Common for up. Finding rain pouring through the roof, they soon realised the enormity of the project. its beer garden, and Clay Farm for fantastic food trucks, has mapped out interesting In 2017, with the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, restoration work itineraries for different timescales, alongside guides to vibrant Mill Road and Cambridge’s began. Five thousand items were catalogued and cleaned, and more than 50 volunteers flourishing ‘arts quarter’. offered their expertise, from local architects, curators and wall paint conservators, to floor specialists, builders and photographers. Due to the fragility of the house, visitor numbers So, if you want to know where to sample authentic street food, sip sublime gin or find a are capped at 2000 per year. Details of opening times, virtual tours and events are all on quirky pop-up event, let CB Travel Guide unlock hidden Cambridge. the website.

Street Food Box 5 Chapel Street Bed & Breakfast www.streetfoodbox.world 5 Chapel Street, Cambridge CB4 1DY [email protected] Telephone 01223 514856 www.5chapelstreet.com

In December 2019, Eddie Stableford went to the Mill Road Winter Fair and had a great You can keep your carbon-copy chain hotels; we’d rather lay our head in a home that time. Late in the afternoon he watched as Council workers did a heroic job clearing up oozes character, boasts uber-comfy beds and serves up a home-cooked breakfast of kings all the rubbish. He was brought up short by just how much rubbish there was: towering (or queens). This description fits 5 Chapel Street Bed & Breakfast to a T. Nestled in the mounds of polythene sacks filled with paper cups, plastic plates, knives and forks, heart of Chesterton, in a peaceful conservation area, a short stroll from the River Cam, napkins. It was a nightmarish image that wouldn’t leave him. the Georgian townhouse has been lovingly restored and converted by Christine Ulyyan and husband Usama. The couple fell in love with the Grade II listed property back in Eddie discovered that in the UK we throw away 11 billion items of food-to-go packaging 2010 and worked with architects to create a friendly ‘home from home’, welcoming their every year, and it’s all going into landfill. And we’re running out of land. Then Eddie first guest in April 2012. thought about the popularity of reusable coffee cups and wondered why there wasn’t something similar for food-to-go. With the 2025 Single Use Plastics Act in his sights, There’s three charming bedrooms, from a bijou double overlooking the walled garden, Eddie decided to fill that gap. to a superking-sized master, flooded with natural light. Each room has its own character, with luxurious features such as Egyptian cotton sheets, modern power showers and One year later, Eddie is ready to launch the Street Food Box. It’s multi-use, compact and Christine’s homemade ginger and orange biscuits (they’re truly scrumptious). There’s also easy to carry (it folds up small enough to fit into a jeans pocket), dishwasher, microwave two Dutch bikes that the B&B lend to guests for no extra charge. and stain proof, and made from 100% recyclable plastic. It’s a funky piece of kit and it’s made in the UK. The design is an eye-catching, flat, retro colour look, emblazoned with Christine’s pièce de résistance, garnering glowing reviews, is her hearty home-cooked the Street Food Box mantra, ‘Eat, Rinse, Sleep, Repeat’. There are two versions: one with breakfasts, using organic ingredients from local suppliers, ranging from the Full English, a cutlery compartment containing knife, fork, spoon and chopsticks (made from wheat featuring free-range eggs and Gog Magog Butchers sausages and bacon, to Kedgeree straw), and a ‘baby’ box for noodles, cereals, soup. made from Norfolk smoked haddock. There’s also homemade granola, fresh fruit salad and delicious bread from Cambridge artisan bakery Stir and Alison McTaggart’s Bread on You probably want one. Well, you can buy one but first you’ll have to register your a Bike, with loose leaf tea and locally roasted coffee, served in bone china cups. interest on the Street Food Box website as Eddie is about to launch a kickstarter campaign. The first orders will be fulfilled within three to four weeks and they will fund Nine years on from opening, Christine loves the hospitality side of the business, extolling a full production run. When you’ve got your Street Food Box, head down to Cambridge the virtues of Cambridge to the many tourists who visit. Passionate about baking since market and eat, rinse, sleep, repeat. That will make Eddie (and the planet) happy. a teen (and with a previous career in catering and fine wines), she’s happiest of all in the kitchen, cooking up a storm for her lucky guests. Post-pandemic opening has been cautious at first, with bookings mainly limited to weekends, one party at any one time. This said, if you wish to book and availability doesn’t show online, just get in touch with Christine.

18 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 19 Fen Ditton Gallery Bleach Box Gallery

23 High Street, Fen Ditton, Cambridge CB5 8ST 2 Springfield Road, Cambridge CB4 1AD www.fendittongallery.com Telephone 07779 704946 [email protected] www.richardheeps.co.uk

Just a short bike ride along the river from Cambridge you’ll find Fen Ditton Gallery, an There is something of an alchemist about contemporary photographer Richard Heeps, inviting space run by artist/photographer Lotte Attwood and daughter Hannah Munby. founder of Cambridge-based Bleach Box Gallery. His bold analogue art, bursting with Housed in a converted Victorian National School Building, the contemporary gallery highly saturated colour, is both seductive and intriguing, painstakingly brought to life is elegance personified. And unlike some galleries, which can feel intimidating, this is a through darkroom techniques, without digital manipulation. welcoming place in a domestic setting; it’s actually located in Lotte’s home! Heavily influenced by America, his striking artworks depict cool interiors, interesting Since opening in May 2018, the gallery has been working with independent curator buildings, and atmospheric landscapes, with eye-catching typography a recurring feature. Amanda Game to bring an exciting exhibition programme featuring well-known and up- Richard launched Bleach Box in 2008 (with fellow photographer Natasha Heidler), and-coming artists from around the world. the name a reference to the area where drag racers spin their tyres before a race. But his Most recently, the gallery hosted a photography exhibition by Graham Murrell, spanning passion for photography stems back to childhood, when he’d spend weekends with his the last 20 years of his career. It was 20 years ago that Graham Murrell left his position as dad driving around the Fens, capturing images on a Kodak Box Brownie. Head of Photography at Central St Martins, after completing his first major exhibition Richard went on to study photography, securing a touring show of the North West and Light Spells at Kettle’s Yard. The exhibition was dedicated to the memory of Michael an exhibition at The Photographers’ Gallery in London. Harrison, the former Director of Kettle’s Yard, whose encouragement and support led to this part of Murrell’s career. After art college, he worked closely with Cambridge Darkroom Gallery on Gwydir Street, taught photography at Hills Road Sixth Form and spent seven years shooting images for Summer 2021, Hannah is launching a new community of young art collectors, his book, Man’s Ruin, a rejection of the modern world, with a gloriously nostalgic 1950s encouraging new audiences to engage with art through informal events and talks. feel. Hannah says, “I have started my own art collection on a budget - I want to show others in my generation that you don’t need a lot of money or a degree in history of art to be Though based in Cambridge, Bleach Box Gallery has a worldwide reach. Richard and able to have works of art on your walls”. gallery manager Eleanor Jordan have exhibited at hundreds of international art fairs, from Paris and Milan to New York and Singapore. And for the past two years they’ve been Other exhibitions coming up this year include the gallery’s annual conservation selling online, shipping artwork to Asia, America and Europe. exhibition, this year the theme is water, that will raise awareness and funds for an environmental organisation working in this field, and a collective of this year’s graduates This summer (2021) Richard will take part in Cambridge Open Studios, throwing open from The Royal Drawing School. the gallery doors each weekend in July, and he’ll also be exhibiting at The Other Art Fair (Kings Cross) the first weekend in July. With his mesmerising photography continuing to captivate, Richard’s next challenge is a new book, wrapping up his best-loved projects, from the east coast of America to the east coast of England. It promises to be a fascinating insight into life through a lens.

Babylon Arts Art Hound Gallery

Waterside, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4AU Burwash Manor, New Road, Barton, Cambridge CB23 7EY Telephone 01353 616991 Telephone 01223 262033 or 07958 704 359 www.babylonarts.org.uk www.thearthoundgallery.com

Babylon Arts may have a small team behind it, but the Ely-based charity is having a big The Art Hound is a Contemporary Art gallery with a fast-growing international impact on the local arts scene. reputation for Pop and Urban Art genres. Dedicated to showcasing emerging and established artists working in cutting edge printmaking and painting, neon light art and The organisation includes the Babylon Gallery, which is located on the Cathedral city’s other experimental techniques and concepts, as an independent gallery, it packs a hefty pretty riverside, and the Babylon Cinema at The Maltings, a second screening cinema, punch! which can be found just a stone’s throw from the gallery. Established in London in 2012, the gallery is now based just outside Cambridge, with Visitors to the gallery will find a light and airy exhibition space with regularly changing easy access from London, and is a unique urban art experience in a country setting. works from artists across East Anglia and further afield. In the last year, the small but perfectly formed space has exhibited over 165 artists’ work, something Chief Executive The Art Hound represents some of the most exciting names in the Contemporary art Claire Somerville and the team are rightfully proud of. Exhibitions vary in length from world, such as Lauren Baker, Illuminati Neon, Pegasus, Naomi Wallens, Mark Petty, three to five-week runs, and showcase a mix of media including, ceramics, paintings, Simon Freeborough and David Studwell, with major exhibitions both in the gallery, digital artworks and drawings. The artists behind the work varies too and visitors are London and worldwide. With its own print studio, the Art Hound also does a lot to just as likely to see displays produced by professional artists as they are local school and support the careers of up and coming urban and street artists by releasing new prints and community groups. giving their work a new audience. Claire has been at the helm for around three years and with a background in the Music is a lynch pin to the Art Hound, with the gallery representing Terry Pastor, Performing Arts she has added a selection of dance events to the mix for children and the artist behind David Bowie’s Hunky Dory and Ziggy Stardust, and features many their grown-ups to enjoy. exclusive works directly connected to Punk, Rock and Hip Hop. In the gallery’s gift shop, you’ll find great gift ideas produced by the artists, alongside The gallery also houses a large collection of works for sale by internationally recognised quirky brands Powder and Green Pebble cards. The gallery’s exhibition space doubles up artists such as Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, Tracey Emin and Banksy; Modern Masters as the venue for Babylon Arts’ study days, where people can learn more about a particular such as Matisse, Picasso and Dali, as well as Abstract Art and American Pop Art. artist or genre and is also available to hire for private events. Led by a small expert team (and a greyhound), who are always on hand to discuss art At the cinema, the monthly listing includes box office favourites alongside screenings investment and artistic process, the gallery offers bespoke framing and a personalised ‘at from Royal Opera House Live, National Theatre Live. home’ service for private and commercial premises to build a serious collection. Most works are available to purchase via the Own Art scheme – an initiative that makes buying So, if you haven’t visited the gallery or cinema before, or perhaps haven’t been for a while, contemporary art and craft affordable to help get your collection started. why not pop by and see it for yourself? Remember too, as well as art, the team love dogs, so if you have your own hound - bring them along too!

20 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 21 Sew Knit Craft Helen Handmade Books

58 King Street, Cambridge, CB1 1LN www.helenhandmadebooks.com Telephone 01223 350691 [email protected] www.sewknitcraft.co.uk

How do you relax? Practice yoga? Exercise mindfulness? For Irena Spence, calmness If there’s one word that sums up what Helen Perry can do it is ‘alchemy’ – the magic comes the minute she picks up her trusty knitting needles, selects an exquisite yarn and of how to change basic elements into other, more wonderous substances. Taking the begins working her magic. Able to ‘knit one, purl one’ from the age of five, when she humblest objects like paper, cardboard and glue, and using a small number of tools, stitched a skirt for her dolly, Irena has been hooked ever since. And though her career Helen has the skills to turn these into the most exquisite handmade books and now she is took a different path – she ran her own solicitor’s practice for 18 years, and is now a sharing her knowledge with others. partner in Tees, Cambridge – Irena never gave up on the dream of one day owning a craft After a career in social work followed by a move in to adult education, Helen looked at shop. So, when the opportunity arose to take over Sew Creative on King Street, Irena ways to combine the elements of skill-sharing and teaching she enjoyed with her life-long took the plunge. passions for books, crafting and sewing. All these aspects came together for Helen when That was in June 2018, and now trading as Sew Knit Craft Ltd, the store has become she went along to her first bookbinding course run by friend Edel Hopkin. The ‘magic’ of a crafter’s paradise, packed to the rafters with wool, fabrics, buttons, dyes, needles and being able to actually make a book hit Helen and she moved to working alongside Edel haberdashery. and then finally, in March 2019, taking on the business of running the courses herself. Which just goes to show how a hobby has become a true passion. There’s an assortment of sewing machines in the window, from top brands Janome, Bernina and Pfaff - and the store offers machine servicing. Helen offers a range of courses and supplies all the necessary materials and tools. The courses currently take place at Stapleford Granary, Cambridge Artworks in Green’s Road, A large back room boasts a dizzying array of wool, in every conceivable hue, from the and Cambridge Art Makers in Linton. The core course – Beginning Bookbinding – likes of King Cole, Sirdar and Stylecraft. consists of five, three-hour sessions over five weeks in which Helen gives a comprehensive Take the bunting-clad stairs to the first floor, and the walls are a sea of fabrics, in a introduction to the basics of bookbinding with her students learning how to make kaleidoscope of colours, featuring contemporary prints (Lewis & Irene), luxurious different styles including case bound, quarter bound, concertina and stab stitch books. designs (Liberty) and seasonal patterns (Moda). There are two other five-week courses, The Wrap and The Artist’s Collection, as well as a Keen to create ‘a craft hub’, Irena launched the very popular ‘Knit & Natter’ sessions on range of one day classes covering other styles of binding from single-page loop binding to Mondays, where like-minded folk gather to crochet and knit over a cuppa. the beautiful Japanese-style album binding. There’s also a variety of workshops, including beginners knitting, beginners crochet, felting, and dress-making. So, if you are craving a break from life’s treadmill, pop in and talk to Irena, or one of her four incredibly-knowledgeable staff. You will soon catch the crafting bug!

Nomads Knitting Needle Lane

5 King’s Parade Cambridge CB2 1SJ Telephone 01223 561865 Telephone 01223 324588 www.knittingneedlelane.co.uk nomadscambridge.com [email protected]

Stepping into Nomads is like finding a haven of tranquillity after the bustle of King’s Knitting Needle Lane has been established since 2017 – first starting its life as a stall on Parade. The shop, which has now been in business for over 30 years, is on two floors but Cambridge Market every Sunday come rain or shine – it was created by Camilla Carter the lower floor really is a world in itself. Afghan rugs, scarves, shawls and stoles, clothing, who has been knitting herself since the age of 7. Five years on and Knitting Needle Lane throws, lampshades, wooden boxes, Tibetan singing bowls, tribal artefacts, stationary and has a high social media presence and has also won awards for excellent customer service. musical instruments fill the room. The range of jewellery is particularly impressive, the Since Covid 19 reared its ugly head, Knitting Needle Lane is now an online shop. majority of it coming from Jaipur - the hub of the jewellery industry in India. Proud to offer only the softest of yarns and free home delivery in Cambridge or ‘Click It all started when a young Fin saw photographs of his grandfather on a mapping & Collect’, Knitting Needle Lane stocks the most gorgeous range of hand-dyed yarns – expedition to Tibet and knew instantly that travel was in his blood too. Initially travelling mainstream brands and much more. to Afghanistan as a teenager and falling in love with the culture, the question was how A new addition to the website ‘Handmade With Love’, is a range of beautiful finished could he fund further journeys? The answer - to find and buy beautiful items and bring pieces from hats and cushions to bunting and baby bootees. Created in 2020 after long them back to Cambridge to sell and so the seeds for Nomads were sown. periods in lockdown, and with lots of crafting time available to her, Camilla decided this When he is able to, Fin satifies his wanderlust with trips to India and Nepal, to discover would be a nice added extra for people who wanted to buy handmade, finished items. new aspects of the cultures as well as sourcing interesting ranges for the shop. In fact all This year (2021), sees Camilla launch the Cambridge Craft Festival along with local indie who work at Nomads love travel, which probably explains the friendly openness and yarn dyer and pattern designer, Jemma Arrowsmith from ‘Under The Olive Tree Knits’. enthusiasm of everyone there. The festival will run virtually on social media every 3 months until it is safe to have a Nomads also transforms in to an atmospheric venue for evening talks and concerts, solid venue and regular face-to-face events again. You can read more about the festival details of which can be found on the Nomads Facebook page along with stories and here www.cambridgecraftfestival.co.uk music from around the world. Knitting Needle Lane will continue to run its popular workshops – as and when times are safer. These will be held in a CB1 premises with free parking and lots of space to create the wonderful mindfulness of your craft.

22 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 23 Oxwash Taank Optometrists

Unit 10, Ronald Rolph Court, Cambridge CB5 8PX 92A Mill Road, Cambridge CB1 2BD Telephone 01223 455189 Telephone 01223 350071 www.oxwash.com/cambridge www.taank.co.uk

Cambridge folk are setting aside a centuries-old rivalry to invite Oxwash – a sustainable Looking around the very stylish and modern interior at award-winning Taank washing company from ‘The Other Place’ - to do their dirty laundry! Such is the appetite Optometrists, it’s amazing to think that an optician’s practice has existed at 92A Mill for the planet-friendly service - which sees riders Jeremy and Toby zipping around Road for over 100 years. It’s equally amazing to know that the practice’s recent stunning Cambridge on electric cargo bikes, collecting and delivering laundry, leaving a plume of refurbishment came about after the premises were severely damaged by a fire in the bubbles in their wake - that around 3,000 individual items are being cleaned per week neighbouring building. After a stint operating from a specially-designed mobile practice, here. owner Anjana Taank and her team are now back home on Mill Road and once again combining the most up-to-date eye health technology and fashionable eyewear, with Founder Dr Kyle Grant jokes he is ‘proud to be serving the UK’s second-best university the practice’s traditional values of good customer service and community involvement city’, but says he is impressed at how Cambridge’s ‘conscious consumers’ have embraced (rightly acknowledged when they were crowned the Association of Optometrists ‘Practice Oxwash. of the Year Award 2017’). A former NASA engineer, Kyle launched his start-up in 2017, whilst studying in Oxford. Working as an independent optician as well as in the hospital eye service and voluntarily Tasked with washing his rugby team’s kit, the PhD student became frustrated at the abroad, Anjana is passionate about what she does as well as incredibly knowledgeable. perpetually broken washing machines at his college. So, spray-painting a Deliveroo She works closely with Addenbrooke’s Hospital - in the Glaucoma Clinic and has backpack, he cycled around collecting washing, which he initially laundered at home. obtained her Independent Prescribing credentials. This professional work has meant As demand grew, Kyle visited a commercial laundry, but was shocked by the harsh investing in the latest equipment as well as specialised training, so there’s no doubt you chemicals, pollution, and water waste. Recognising an industry ripe for innovation, he are in safe, expert hands with Anjana. utilised space-age technology to re-engineer the laundry process, creating his first water- efficient laundry or ‘lagoon’ in Oxford. And if you’re looking for top-quality, designer frames and sunglasses, Anjana’s range is hand-picked and selected to reflect style as well as quality. Taank provides a bespoke Expanding to Cambridge last July, Oxwash set up a lagoon in Barnwell, using fourth styling service to help you choose the right eyewear - a skill that takes years of experience. generation wet cleaning, which swaps carcinogenic solvents for biodegradable detergents So, as well as offering a technical solution, you know your eyewear will perfectly match and weighs items, using an algorithm to calculate the exact amount of water needed to your personal style. British and International designers are chosen for their unique, remove stains and restore brightness. cutting-edge approach to design and production, with the range including Feb31st The dynamic Cambridge team, led by Joe, remain busy with repeat orders from (gorgeous wooden frames), Garrett Leight, Lanvin, Anne et Valentin and Hoffman university colleges, businesses and individuals. The response has been ‘incredibly (stunning handcrafted buffalo horn frames) - to name just a few, and the Taank team heartwarming’ says Kyle. A nationwide expansion programme (followed by North really do everything to make choosing the perfect frames effortless and, most importantly, America) is next on Oxwash’s agenda, with the goal to become the first sustainable, net- enjoyable. zero impact washing company in the world. With Kyle’s space-age ingenuity and eco- ambition, it’s a matter of when, not if!

Woodland Wishes Clare Kenward Flowers

4 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH Telephone 01223 967750 Telephone 01223 880002 or 07794 860131 www.clarekenwardflowers.co.uk www.woodlandwishes.co.uk [email protected]

With its squishy sofas, scented candles and uplifting artwork, depicting pretty woodlands, Being sent flowers is quite a rare thing these days, Clare Kenward says, but one of the carpeted with bluebells and flooded with sunlight, Woodland Wishes HQ in Fulbourn is a favourite parts of her job is turning up on someone’s doorstep with a bunch of beautiful warm, welcoming haven. It’s far removed from the stark, sterile feel of a traditional funeral blooms and seeing the pleasure spread across their face. “Are those for me? How parlour, and this is exactly what Tracy O’Leary intended when she set up the business in wonderful!” 2012, offering more personalised funeral services using ‘earth friendly’ coffins. If Clare turns up on your doorstep you can be assured that the flowers you’re about to Enthusiastic and empathetic, Tracy is passionate about giving families the opportunity to receive are carefully chosen and perfectly personal. It all starts with a conversation about say a more meaningful goodbye and dispensing with unwanted fuss and exorbitant costs. the recipient: what sort of colours do they like? Are they flamboyant and dramatic or quietly elegant and understated? Do they have a favourite scent? Are you celebrating It was while working for Cambridge homeless charity WinterComfort that Tracy was something or wanting to cheer someone up? asked to market woven willow coffins, but funeral directors were reluctant to invest. So Tracy went directly to families yearning for a more relaxed service. Word spread, and Clare began to learn her craft at a Jane Packer evening class and her designs are modern Woodland Wishes has evolved organically, since winning accolades for its biodegradable, and filled with colour and texture. She’s mindful of her ecological footprint. Flowers are sustainable and affordable products. sourced with seasonality in mind and she uses local and British-grown flowers when she can. She doesn’t use floral foam, plastic or cellophane, preferring biodegradable stem Today the company offers funerals, cremations and natural burials at the UK’s 300 wrap to keep her bouquets moist, and compostable bags. woodland sites, including peaceful resting places in Barton, Six Mile Bottom, and Ramsey. Coffins are locally made in willow, wool, solid pine and cardboard, which can be Clare provides flowers for weddings and funerals too, and here the personal touch is just photoprinted or decorated with children’s handprints to add the personal touch. as important. She’ll incorporate flowers and plants and fruit from the family’s garden into her funeral arrangements, for example, to really embed that personal connection. She’s Traditional black hearses are available, but Tracy also has Cambridgeshire’s first all-electric equally happy working to her clients’ instructions or using her own floristry expertise and hearse, a Nissan Leaf. This is much smaller than a traditional hearse, and there are only 8 experience to help them identify what they want. in the UK, so Woodland Wishes can now offer this zero emission hearse to the people of Cambridgeshire and beyond for a totally green funeral. There isn’t a shop but there is a fantastic website (check out the amazing postable flower boxes, they last for months), and if you give her a call or send her an email you’ll end Tracy has a chapel of rest - at the aptly named Woodland House in Great Wilbraham - up with as perfect and thoughtful and personal a present, or wedding, or funeral, as you filled with willow hearts, flowers and lavender candles, where family can spend precious could possibly imagine. time. At its heart an honest, ethical indie, Woodland Wishes goes the extra mile with Tracy available 24/7. Whatever send-off is required, from services in a field full of llamas to intimate funerals at home, Woodland Wishes have made those desires a reality, providing real comfort to grieving relatives.

24 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 25 Go Glass Felicity White Interiors

127, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge CB1 7BS Telephone 07468 533 193 Telephone 01223 211041 www.felicitywhiteinteriors.com www.goglass.co.uk [email protected]

A true family affair – Go Glass is run by the brother and sisters’ team of Clive, Tracy When we make purchasing decisions on the grounds of our health or environmental and Emma (the company itself was launched by their father Raymond Sparkes, in 1978, factors, they usually relate to things like food or fashion. So, what about our homes? on Kingston Street, Cambridge). One by one the siblings joined their father, adding Especially considering we are all spending a lot more time there, shouldn’t we be thinking their various skillsets, and taking the business in an exciting new direction towards glass about them along these lines too? design. It can be tricky though – trying to find out about the environmental credentials of a sofa Go Glass’s portfolio is now exceptionally diverse, from frameless doors and shower or the potentially harmful effects of a type of paint. Luckily though, interior designer cubicles to striking balconies and balustrades, and trendy printed splashbacks to wow- Felicity White is there to help her clients navigate their way through these decisions as factor kitchen worktops. The company’s best-sellers are their uber-modern frameless she has spent many hours researching and demystifying the world of interior products as glass doors, which bring a sense of light and room to offices and homes. There are 28 well as the design process itself. designs, inspired by nature, geometric patterns and transport, and many customers opt Like many of us can probably relate to, Felicity (a creative at heart), was initially for bespoke models. dissuaded from pursuing a career in design, but subsequent roles in management The creativity even extends outdoors with their range of ethereal garden sculptures – lit consultancy and project management have come in extremely useful since launching her with colour changing light in a range of 6 contemporary designs. There’s really nothing interior design business. A thirst for knowledge coupled with a desire to be completely they can’t create out of glass. Clive particularly, has always been blessed with incredible transparent about her work, Felicity has gone on to acquire formal qualifications in creative flair – exhibiting his stunning glass art at events such as Glasstec in Dusseldorf, interior design and regularly keeps up to date via industry talks and courses. Grand Designs Live, Hampton Court and Chelsea Flower Shows – and has recently Felicity carries through this desire for transparency into her pricing too. Anything design- launched the Soda and Lime website exclusively to showcase his growing body of work. related can be seen as a bit ‘smoke and mirrors’, but that’s not how she operates. On her Four decades in business, and Go Glass is a prime example of an indie with master informative website, Felicity has her design services clearly broken down, and also priced craftsmanship at its core, but a global vision for its future. A company that cares about per room – so no nasty surprises await. She’s also keen to suggest incorporating second- clients big and small, and continually nurtures its gifted team of employees. Cambridge hand products as a sustainable option and pass on trade discounts on new products. is still their home, with all the manufacturing taking place behind the scenes at their Designing for both residential and commercial clients, Felicity helps her clients to showroom on Cherry Hinton Road – which is open by appointment – and for basic glass develop their own personal style and works with them either online using e-design and mirrors, these can now be ordered easily via their website goglass.co.uk and are then or face-to-face to not only create beautiful, sustainable interiors, but give them the available to just simply click and collect. confidence to go on to create their own.

Indie Readers’ offer: 10% off all glass art sculptures at the Soda and Lime website www.sodaandlime.co.uk using the code INDIE (add it in the coupon section in the checkout).

Cooke, Curtis & Co Linford Joinery

40 High Street, Trumpington, Cambridge CB2 9LS 217B, Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge CB1 7DA Telephone 01223 508050 Telephone 07449 834098 www.cookecurtis.co.uk www.linfordjoinery.co.uk

Moving home – we all know it’s up there in list of the most stressful events to go through in life, but what if there were just a few things that would make it a slightly less fraught ‘Beautiful works in wood’ sums up Linford Joinery perfectly. James Linford is a time- time? Let’s start with your choice of estate agent. What if you could choose to work with served bench joiner, specialising in bespoke fitted and free-standing furniture, doors and an agent who knew Cambridge and the surrounding area so well because that’s where windows. Every piece is meticulously handmade at the Cherry Hinton Road workshop they grew up? And if they happened to be highly experienced, great communicators and and finished in natural oils or high-quality paint to match your decoration scheme. genuinely cared about their local community, well wouldn’t that make buying or selling a home with them a more civilised experience? If you’re thinking it’s time to upgrade a flimsy flatpack solution or make better use of space, James can build you a great looking storage solution which will really fit the Sam Cooke and Jamie Curtis – aka Cooke, Curtis & Co – are just such people. Both bill. He’s produced solid beech bookshelves with adjustable shelves to house important ‘Cambridge lads’, they have between them many, many years of experience in the local academic books, designed wardrobes with sliding doors for compact living spaces and property market and set up their own, independent estate agents six years ago to be able fitted window seats in bay windows with toy cupboards underneath for busy families to offer both buyers and sellers a more human approach throughout the moving process. Now a team of 15 (plus Meg the office dog), Cooke, Curtis & Co have built a solid And then there is the ‘Cubed’ range of free-standing furniture. Available as open cabinets reputation through word-of-mouth, referrals and their creative way of thinking. or fitted with doors and drawers, they are perfect for storage and display, ideal for vinyl records, art or oversized books. Based on the good old cube, it’s easy to combine these in Based on Trumpington Road, in the building once occupied by another classic lots of different ways to create your own unique solution. Cambridge indie – Hobby Stores, Sam, Jamie and their team are perfectly located for both the city and surrounding villages. And when they are out and about with client Joinery solutions are one of the most attractive ways to enhance any property and, with a viewings, they are consciously as low-carbon as possible – arriving preferably by bicycle or bit of help from James, you can create a truly individual home. for longer journeys, by electric car. With their strong ties to the local area, Sam and Jamie have set up a Cooke, Curtis & Co fund to support interesting and worthwhile projects that are going on in Cambridge and the surrounding area. More details about this can be found on their website, but it’s just this sort of creative and community-minded initiative that makes this award-winning indie estate agents the obvious choice.

26 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 27 Radcliffe & Rust Peter Harrison Furniture

Beacon Rise, 150 Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8AX The Woodyard, 38 Cheddars Lane, Cambridge CB5 8LD Telephone 01223 307898 Telephone 07718 287843 www.radcliffeandrust.co.uk www.peterharrisonfurniture.co.uk

To say the local housing market has seen some changes over the last 20 years, is From sleek design-led kitchens to ergonomic rocking chairs, commanding dining room something of an understatement. Two people who could (very happily) talk you through tables to ingenious hidden bookcases, there’s seemingly no limit to what Peter Harrison the market are David Radcliffe and Richard Rust, founders of independent estate can create out of wood. His commissions range from the showstopping (a Swarovski agents Radcliffe & Rust. Both are born and bred in the area and are as passionate about crystal-encrusted coffee table) to the essential everyday (fitted alcove wardrobes, popular Cambridge as they are about everything to do with property. in Victorian homes). The story of Radcliffe & Rust goes back to school days when David and Richard met at Peter, who works from a former builder’s yard in Cheddar’s Lane, Cambridge, is a Bottisham Village College. They were obviously destined to remain long-term friends, as self-taught furniture designer/maker, and launched his business in 1994. Previously they continued on to sixth form and university together – they’ve even been known to working as an antiques restorer, he discovered a love of furniture construction, whether finish each other’s sentences! it be fashioning a new tabletop from floorboards or creating a chair leg for a treasured heirloom. And he’s been designing what he modestly describes as ‘beautiful bits of After a stint for both friends in the world of ‘corporate’ estate agents – which although furniture’ ever since. valuable in terms of knowledge gained – left them both yearning to do things in a more personal way, so in 2011, Radcliffe & Rust was founded. Along with their small, Working largely on private client commissions, Peter’s talents have taken him as far but perfectly formed team, David and Richard not only calmly handle house sales afield as France, though he’s currently busy designing and fitting bespoke kitchens in and lettings, they also offer impartial advice on associated aspects such as mortgages Cambridge, with demand for home improvement rising post lockdown. and conveyancing. Richard is the son of a now-retired local property developer, so an One of Peter’s biggest passions is producing his own modern pieces, including turned added string to their bow is their knowledge in the areas of planning and development, wooden candlesticks, decorative boxes and chopping boards, which he sells at Cambridge ensuring their clients maximise the potential of not only their property, but also, in some Open Studios each July. Many of his designs are extraordinarily inventive, such as his cases, their land. And when it comes to marketing properties, this talented team also American walnut XX table, which holds its striking shape thanks to a hidden steel go the extra mile. Having studied photography, Richard uses his know-how to produce armature encased within its legs, or his ‘brick’ chairs, inspired by mid-century rubber professional HDR photography and 360-degree tours of their properties – and at no block doormats. extra charge. Peter uses a combination of ancient tools (dating back to the 18th century) and modern Above all, it is the testimonials from their obviously very happy clients, which best sum means (3D computer design) to ensure his work is top quality. Passionate about up the Radcliffe & Rust approach. Prompt, professional, friendly, and responsive are being environmentally responsible, he sources timber from countries with good forest all words that appear time after time. So, by doing it their way, the friends are certainly management records, and regularly works with recycled or reused timber and fittings. getting it right! With such attention to detail, superior design and appreciation for the beauty of wood, a Peter Harrison original should last a lifetime.

Art of Flooring Eve Waldron Design

141 Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 1XE 8 Pound Hill, Cambridge CB3 0AE Telephone 01223 755802 or 07939 550804 Telephone 01223 470370 www.artofflooring.co.uk www.evewaldron.com

With the exorbitant cost of buying a house, many homeowners are choosing to stay put Walking around Cambridge, there’s a fair chance you’ll stumble upon an Eve Waldron- and extend their current footprint – meaning there’s increasing demand for flooring. designed space, or somewhere you’ll find furniture, lighting or rugs supplied by her But with so many companies offering flooring solutions, sourcing an option that is high company. From the new library at Magdalene College and Jesus or Girton Colleges’ quality, aesthetically pleasing and durable, can be perplexing. Here’s where the award- café’s, to dynamic office buildings and elegant homes, they all bear her inimitable winning team at Art of Flooring in Cambridge excel. Specialists in solid and engineered attention to detail. wood flooring, carpets and luxury vinyl tiles, they have a vast range of premium products, Growing up in New York to a writer father and artist mother, with a love of galleries expert fitters and aftercare plans to ensure sustainability. and museums, Eve was visually attuned from a young age. She studied industrial design, Heading up the business, gregarious owner Pierre De Wet and wife Laurence, work before working for leading global design practices in New York and London. alongside enthusiastic general manager Sam Wilson. Attracted by Cambridge’s international mix, good schools and biking culture, Eve Pierre and Laurence entered the Indie scene 15 years ago, launching Chittering-based launched her interior design and architectural practice in Pound Hill in 2000. Starting floorcare company Art of Clean, offering maintenance services. Over the years clients with residential projects, her workload grew to include the University and Colleges, as quizzed them about floor replacements, so the duo set up Art of Flooring, and hired Sam well as office spaces and laboratories. Clients value her broad experience, imaginative to shape the business, set up the supply chain, find fitters and plan the refurbishment of ideas and meticulous execution. Many projects she has worked on have won design their Milton Road showroom, which opened October 2017. awards including the recently completed Old Granary for Darwin College. They’ve created a welcoming environment for clients to chat over locally-sourced coffee. In order to celebrate their technical expertise in architectural design, the practice has The shop is equipped with sample flooring from premium carpet brands including recently become a member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. So, Victoria, Hugh Mackay, Elements of London and Riviera, with vinyl tiling from Harvey alongside the ‘fluffy, fun’ side of design, they undertake planning applications, building Maria, Moduleo and Karndean. Also showcased are signature bespoke wooden floor extensions and extensive refurbishments. options, which can be created in several design patterns, colours and finishes. The team Eve has a lovely shop full of furniture, lighting, curtains and blinds and all sorts of also work with Pallmann, enabling them to install an unfinished wood floor and hand- fabrics, tiles, flooring and finishes. It includes her bespoke designed furniture, rugs and finish it on site. textiles. You are very welcome to stop by or browse the collection online on their website. Aside from their comprehensive range, Art of Flooring’s outstanding customer service They also have a separate shop focusing on office and workspace furniture (including attracts return business. Free site surveys are carried out to ensure the flooring fits the home office). Called EWOP (which fittingly stands for ‘everything works out perfectly’), location, and Art of Clean can conserve the finished product for many years to come. it offers a curated selection of high-design, great value office furniture from brands such It’s a dream team! as Vitra, Hay, Bisley and Knoll.

28 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 29 KCP Furniture & Finishing Babouris: The HMO Agency

9A Regal Lane, Soham CB7 5BA Floor 3, 5-60 Station Road, Cambridge CB1 2JH Telephone 01353 720372 or 07787 502224 Telephone 01223 953899 www.kcpfurnituredesign.co.uk www.babouris.co.uk

KCP Furniture & Finishing specialise in creating beautiful and functional bespoke Alex Babouris has a passion for property and it started young when he bought his first furniture. Kitchens, offices, bookcases, cupboards, wardrobes, window seats – from flat at the age of 20, shortly followed by a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO). He design right through to installation – every piece is uniquely created to suit the client and used high street letting agencies to manage his HMOs at first, but quickly realized that their space. Projects are designed in close consultation with the client, using materials and he was doing the lion’s share of the work himself – and so was born Babouris: The HMO styles to suit every budget. They have a flair for making original and beautiful pieces of Agency. furniture that make the best use of even the most awkward spaces. Alongside his passion for his business, Alex feels a tremendous responsibility for the Kate Polak trained as a carpenter and joiner in 1999 and has been designing and making people he does business with: his landlords and his tenants. Talking to his prospective furniture for clients ever since, producing work that is both stunning and ingenious. As tenants, he gets a feel for what they’re looking for, what sort of people they are, and a woman working in a predominantly male industry, Kate offers a refreshingly different then matches them against his properties and the other people who live in them. He approach to her clients – listening and responding to their requirements flexibly, without knows that when someone takes a room in a shared house, they’re joining a ready-made imposing ideas on them. community. Relationships are important to Alex. Ian Taft trained as a boat builder at the International Boatbuilding College in Lowestoft. Tenants are all ages and come from all walks of life, students, young professionals living Boat building requires a high level of skill in creating furniture that will fit irregular away from home for the first time – his oldest tenant is 62 and very proud of the fact spaces, which is very useful for most houses too! He has been manufacturing specialist – but what they all have in common is enjoying a high standard of customer service joinery and furniture for architects and designers since 2007. He also specialises in high- and high quality accommodation where everything, including professional cleaners and end sprayed paint and lacquer finishes. gardeners, is included in the rent. Together as KCP Furniture & Finishing, Kate and Ian operate from a large, well- It’s no wonder that Alex has a large bank of tenants waiting for one of his house shares equipped workshop in Soham. Here each bespoke piece is designed, constructed and – in fact, demand outstrips supply so Alex’s focus now is on finding new landlords. As a spray painted before being installed on site. In 2020 they took delivery of a CNC property owner and landlord himself, he’s well-placed to see things from the landlord’s (computer numerically controlled) machine – so large it had to be craned into the perspective. What makes his business unique is that he deals only with house shares workshop – which has allowed them to speed up their production processes and and HMOs. HMOs aren’t standard, they’re subject to complex rules that are specific to manufacture more intricate and complex designs. each local authority, but Alex has a compliance team that takes care of all these potential headaches. He and his team are specialists. In fact, Babouris may be the only agency in Most projects are in and around Cambridge, and there’s currently a three month waiting Cambridge that deals solely with HMOs. That makes it very special indeed. list. So if you’re looking for some beautiful and original furniture to enhance your home, take a look at their website. You’ll be inspired.

Cambridge Steiner School Cambridge Classics

Hinton Road, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DZ 105 Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge CB1 7BS Telephone 01223 882727 Telephone 01223 491910 www.cambridge-steiner-school.co.uk www.cambridgeclassics.co.uk

Becky Strauss left the Cambridge Steiner School in 2009 at the age of 11 as a happy, self- If you own a period home, then you will no doubt love the original features it contains. confident, and curious human being. She’s now studying medicine and says, “My Steiner An important feature – both from the inside and outside – are traditional period primary education has given me valuable life skills that will make me not only a better, windows and doors. Cambridge Classics offer bespoke like-for-like joinery design, so more holistic doctor but a happier, more well-rounded person!” you can upgrade your beautiful property with maximum energy efficiency without compromising the look of your beautiful home. A Steiner Waldorf education nourishes the whole child. There has been a Steiner School in Cambridge for 25 years catering for children aged two to 14. It’s a small, independent From traditional windows including sash, casement and Norfolk slider, through to lovely school that cultivates not only the intellect but also emotional intelligence, and social bespoke Accoya wood doors and interior and exterior decorating, Cambridge Classics and practical skills, offering an education that ‘engages the hand, heart and head’. Pupils aims to provide all these with the highest level of quality and service. And they’re not learn through doing, by developing their natural curiosity, and as they begin to acquire just about the looks. The double-glazed windows are made using energy-efficient glass knowledge for themselves, so they come to relish their discoveries, a relish for learning and the space between the glass is filled with Argon gas which saves heat loss through the that they never lose. glazing. This also means less noise coming in from outside, so you can truly enjoy your period home in comfort. An integral part of the school’s life is the innovative, outdoor education. There’s a wildlife pond and a forest garden, bees to make honey, and what the children grow in the organic Cambridge Classics are owned by husband and wife team Stuart and Camilla Carter. garden they eat for their lunch. Sustainability lies deep in the school’s ethos: everything is Based nice and central in their premises on Cherry Hinton Road, and with a team of 20, recycled or composted and the building is powered by solar energy. Everything is natural, plus dedicated craftsman and office staff, they’re all ready to help with any enquiry you from the paint to the wood to the beeswax paintbrushes, and nothing is disposable; may have. crayons given out in Class One are still being used in Class Six. Cambridge Classics can help transform your house into a home. The respect and care the children show for the natural world is echoed in the respect and care they show for each other, particularly the older children to the younger. The school is on a single site and although different age groups have different break times, there is a real sense of a school community. When children move from Kindergarten to Class One, they’re welcomed with a personalized bag, made just for them by the children in Class Tw o. Don’t take Becky’s word for it. Book a visit and see for yourself what children flourishing look like. To book a visit email [email protected]

30 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 31 Websters Cambridge Limited Cambridge Money Coaching

10 Wellington Street, Cambridge CB1 1HW Telephone 01223 834881 Telephone 01223 507080 www.cambridgemoneycoaching.uk www.tax.uk.com [email protected]

Thirty years ago Andrew Webster, a former senior tax inspector, launched his fledgling Why do some people have a positive relationship with money and others don’t? Give one accountancy business, with a single client to his name, working from a desk in a spare person a salary and they’ll have spent it and more before the end of the month, while bedroom. Today Websters Cambridge is unrecognisable; an internationally-renowned another person can save 20% of the same amount. Why do we do things that we know company, employing 34 people across four offices in two continents, it offers tax, legal are not good for our long-term financial wellbeing? and accounting services from industry experts. With chartered accountants, chartered tax “Having issues with money is totally normal,” says Dennis Harhalakis, founder of advisors, solicitors, and independent financial advisors among the specialist team working Cambridge Money Coaching. “Money doesn’t come with instructions, it only comes in Cambridge, Snettisham and Sydney, Australia, Websters is a veritable one-stop shop, with emotions. So, it’s no surprise that sometimes we wrestle with money issues blindly. covering all aspects of professional services. From tech startups wanting to get to grips We may try to change our behaviour, but we don’t know why we can’t because we don’t with cloud accounting, to retirees considering where to invest, big businesses needing to understand what drives it. Then, when we can’t change, we feel guilty and ashamed, and outsource payroll to international entrepreneurs bamboozled by US tax requirements, we don’t know who to talk to for fear of being judged.” Websters have the resources to help. With 30 years’ experience in financial management, Dennis was no stranger to money Offering all the services of a traditional accountancy firm, Websters has always been issues. But he kept asking himself the questions: how do people develop the capability to unique in its forward-thinking approach. In 2018, following the John Lewis model, the manage their finances, and why is it that if you want to get better at practically anything company set the wheels in motion to become employee-owned, making the dedicated else – yoga, running, life itself – you can find a coach to help you, but that’s not the case staff even more invested in their roles. with money? And yet money is central to our lives. Furthermore, in an industry where the top tier alone typically liaise with the biggest Dennis set up Cambridge Money Coaching to help people understand and manage the clients, Andrew’s approach has been to trust in his entire multidisciplinary team, giving money in their lives. Money coaching is a framework for understanding how we feel, them the opportunity to foster excellent relationships with clients including Nobel Prize think and behave around money. This awareness helps people to make better decisions, winners, academics, wealth management firms, and musicians. All are treated in the same reduce anxiety and other negative emotions, and communicate in healthy ways. friendly, informal and respectful way. Dennis also runs workshops on financial wellbeing for companies to support their Andrew intends to step back from his role in the coming years (giving him more time employees. He is particularly interested in working with small business owners and also to indulge his love of music and guitar playing), reassured that the innovative business delivers talks to parents who want to learn how to teach their children about money. bearing his name is in the very capable hands of his unique, hand-picked team.

The Innovation Practice Sarah Ingram, Writer

Telephone 07711 720157 Telephone 07540 776 225 www.theinnovationpractice.co.uk [email protected]

Independent businesses come in all shapes and sizes. From individuals like artists and A voracious reader as a child, and forever penning poems or conjuring up imaginative makers through to hotels and restaurants - and pretty much everything in between. stories, Sarah Ingram has had a lifelong love affair with the written and spoken word. Whatever the size or shape of the indie, if it’s being run as a ‘proper’ business, there is one Growing up, Sarah yearned to be an actor and, after studying drama at the Royal Welsh common question each one will, at some point, ask - how can I do things better? College of Music and Drama, spent 13 years treading the boards. One highlight from A simple question maybe, but not always an easy one to find an answer to. Managing that time includes an appearance in iconic TV crime drama The Professionals! the day-to-day tasks required can often obscure the bigger picture and the strategic view After hanging up her make-up box, Sarah clocked up 18 years’ service for John Lewis, needed to take a business forward. This is exactly what The Innovation Practice can help starting out as a selling assistant, and recently bid farewell after eight years as marketing people to do. co-ordinator at the Cambridge store so she could focus on her writing. Throughout her Founded and run by Ludo Chapman, The Innovation Practice designs bespoke diverse career, Sarah never lost her passion for literature and writing, gaining an array of workshops and training sessions to get businesses thinking more strategically and formal qualifications, most recently a Masters of Creative Writing at the University of turning these ideas into actions. Ludo himself has over 30 years’ personal experience Cambridge. to call on, having set up and successfully sold a software training organisation before Since leaving John Lewis, Sarah has built up a fascinating portfolio of commissions becoming CEO of local scientific instrument company, Grant Instruments. Now with including copywriting for our very own Indie, and monthly glossy, Velvet Magazine, The Innovation Practice, Ludo can immerse himself in the aspect of business he loves writing advertising copy for individual business clients, and ghost writing a memoir. Her passionately - being involved in the challenge of helping others to succeed. He couples biggest private project is creating a moving memoir of her father, who died when she was this with his love of Cambridge, with his incredible connections, and his belief in three, but wrote a stack of entertaining letters to her mother while he was a missionary in learning from others, which means he always knows someone who has complementary Africa. skills to bring to the party. Incredibly adept at what she does, Sarah has a reassuringly old-fashioned approach, Believing in this power of collaboration as well as the local independent scene, has lead offering clear, accurate writing, attention to detail, and the ability to transform reams of Ludo to the doors of Indie Cambridge and to becoming our business strategist. Listening information into small and perfectly formed prose. She’s also a master storyteller, able to to our challenges and really understanding them, we have worked together to create extract the key information that will captivate the reader. And perhaps most importantly, a framework and a plan for how we can do things better. And just as valuable as his her enthusiasm is unerring: “I never lose this sense of wonderment that I’m doing experience is his energy, enthusiasm and genuine interest in people as well as business, as he something I’ve always loved,” she says. loves to keep in contact and give people the chance to pause and celebrate their success!

32 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com 33 The Photography Place

Telephone 07771 608 277 www.thephotographyplace.co.uk [email protected]

Some people find out from a very early stage in life, what their passion is. This is true of photographer Cristian Barnett, the man behind the lens and his business – The Photography Place. Taking his first pictures as a young teenager; studying photography at college followed by ? a 4-year stint as a freelance assistant in London, proved to be the first steps for Cristian on the path to becoming a professional photographer – his status for nearly twenty years. Can’t believe it’s not During this time Cristian has seen his commissions take him up and down the UK and better around the world, from Europe to Africa and from South America to Asia. His clients are wide-ranging too and include leading publishers and magazines such as Country Living, chefs including Tom Kerridge and The Hairy Bikers, and top hotels and restaurants like Four Seasons and L’Enclume. You have probably by now detected another of Cristian’s great passions – food. He relishes the opportunity to photograph everything to do with it, from its preparation to its presentation, the people involved and the places in which it is served. Over the years, With a probable end to restrictions now in sight, it’s hard to see much evidence of ‘building the skills Cristian has learnt in this specialist area, have transferred well to other subject matters, particularly when capturing the work of artists and craftspeople – another group back better’. Big businesses are experiencing incredible growth and our city streets are once of people who work creatively with their hands and who benefit greatly from Cristian’s again clogged with traffic. special way of using lighting in his photographs. Although much of Cristian’s work is on location, he does have a full-equipped studio, We believe that if we were all a little bit ‘more indie’ things would be better for Cambridge. right by the train station in Shepreth. With beautiful north light and a large shooting In a small city, individuals making simple, personal decisions can make a real difference. area, it is great for full-length portraits, plus there is a kitchen – perfect for taking many more wonderful pictures of food. Not big stuff. Small stuff. Like where you choose to drink your coffee. Or how you buy your furniture, your food, your fun. You might be able to make some journeys on foot or on a bike. And being involved in your local community can really help too.

We want to help people who care about this place to put simple, positive-actions at the heart of their everyday lives.

Hello Lovely Design We’re going to build something that shows you practical steps you can take to make things better. In your life, in your neighbourhood, right away. Telephone 07786 016102 www.hellolovely.design [email protected] We can’t do it without you.

If you are interested in finding out more drop an email to [email protected] Berenice Smith’s talent for graphic design shines throughout her inspiring portfolio, from thoughtfully curated websites and branding, to eye-catching books, fusing perfectly Put ‘Better Cambridge’ in the subject box and, if you want to, tell us a bit about yourself and paired type and pictures. what it is that you want to be better. We promise not to bombard you with unwanted emails. Incredibly adept at demystifying design, Berenice loves to collaborate with a variety of clients – spanning small businesses, publishing houses and authors – to offer bespoke creative solutions, in print or online. Berenice launched Cambridge-based Hello Lovely Design four years ago, but her artistic ability was apparent from childhood; she’d notched up three coveted Blue Peter badges for drawing by the age of 11! Working her way up from junior designer, Berenice honed her skills in various agencies and studied the intricacies of her trade, latterly with a Masters in Graphic Design and Typography at Anglia Ruskin University. With 20 years’ practical experience under her belt, Berenice felt the time was right to be more indie branch out and support others with graphic and website design. Warm and approachable, Berenice focuses on working in partnership with clients to discover the best visual expression of the essence of their company, product or project. Helpfully, she also offers a free 15-minute initial, no obligation chat. Hello Lovely’s services include branding and logo design; bespoke print design; and development of websites and interactive publications, using Squarespace and WordPress. Berenice also has extensive experience in project management, image copyright and picture research, and publishes a problem-solving blog and monthly newsletter, packed with advice. Berenice is a strong believer in ethical business, investigating planet-friendly solutions, and donating to charities each year. Having rescued her business sidekick, Labrador Lurcher cross Molly, nine years ago, she also sends Nero’s Kitchen Biscuits, hand-baked in Norfolk, to other office dogs (with proceeds sent to Elpida Shelter of Hope in Greece). She is clearly lovely by name, lovely by nature!

34 the indie | Summer 2021 www.indiecambridge.com The latest creation from Dinky Doors: The OctoSpa, Romsey. Trying to find all the Dinky Doors around Cambridge? Visit www.dinkydoors.co.uk for a location map