BARBICAN COVER .qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:36 Page 1
The Magazine for Barbican Residents Christmas 2020 Barbican Life
Looking Forward
Barbican Volunteers Helpline: 07376 068137
Remembering Our Locals n Lockdown Landscaping n Location Barbican n Embrace Kindness n View from the Cab Maggie’s Barts n New Neighbourhood Policing n Minibeasts of the Barbican n Virtual Events n Education n Restaurant News Lockdown Life and Food n Oenophilia Health & the City n Insight n Theatre n Décor & Design n Legal Matters View from St Giles' n Personal Finance n BA Discount Scheme n Barbican Flatwatch n Barbicania n Afterthoughts ABRA018_BarbicanMag _AD6 9/5/07 6:04 pm Page 1
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serving the www.abraserve.co.uk barbican since 1981 CONTENTS.qxp_proof 24/11/2020 09:50 Page 1
The Magazine for Barbican Residents Volume 17 No. 4 Christmas 2020 Barbican
Contents Image by @Santaclauslondon on Life FEATURES Instagram Officers (thanks to Neil Andrews @mumhad1ofthose) Chair: Adam Hogg [email protected] 7 Deputy chair: Jane Smith Lockdown Landscaping Honorary secretary: Christopher Makin [email protected] Greenhouse green fingers atop Willoughby Treasurer: Tony Swanson 8 Hon Auditor: Tony Croot Remembering Our Locals Membership secretary: Jim Davies [email protected] We say a goodbye to neighbour Pete Website administrator: Cathryn Worrall Baldwin Assistant treasurer: Nigel Dixon 10 In The Can REGULARS Subcommittee and Working Group Chairs Joanna Lyall features films with a Barbican backdrop Barbicania 5 Access and Walkways: vacant 16 Education 25 Arts Centre Group: Jane Smith Embracing Kindness Health and the City 38 Culture Mile and Centre for Music: Jane Smith Juliana Lottmann’s new mindfulness Insight 41 Estate Security: David Bradshaw projects News Review 29 Planning and Licensing: Sue Cox 20 Theatre Previews 43 London Underground: Richard Collins View From The Cab Décor and Design 45 Bernard Morgan House Liaison: Fred Rodgers Peter Savage gets up high behind the London Wall Place 1: Helen Kay wheel News 47 London Wall Place 2: Mary Bonar 22 Legal Matters 51 Road Traffic adviser: Ted Reilly Virtual Events View from St Giles 53 Sustainability adviser: Sarah Hudson Personal Finance 54 Megan Anstee guides us in the new art of virtual festivities BA Discount Scheme 55 The Elected Members for 2020-21 are: 23 Barbican Flatwatch 60 Randall Anderson, David Bradshaw, Sue Cox, Adam Hogg, No Backbone Afterthoughts 64 David Kirkby, Christopher Makin, Jane Smith, Sandy Wilson Julien Waite gives us woodlice! 28 House Group Representatives Area Restaurant Reviews and News We’re back in the saddle with a local star Barbican Life is published Andrewes House Lionel Meyringer 34 by the Barbican Blake Tower Jay Theis Putting Your Belly On Lockdown Association for all Barbican Ben Jonson Helen Hulson residents. Additional copies Melissa Bakth gives her bitesize take on are available at £5.50 per Brandon Mews Humfrey Brandes lockdown, life and food copy, including UK Breton House Fred Rodgers 48 postage, from: Barbican Life, Bryer Court John Taysum New Neighbourhood Policing Bunyan Court Derek Penney 34 John Trundle Court, A new policing model for the City Barbican, EC2Y 8DJ Cromwell Tower Tim Cox [email protected] Defoe House David Kirkby Frobisher Crescent Jenny Addison Gilbert House Ian Dixon Editor: Helen Hudson Contributors/Assistance: Email: [email protected] John Trundle Court Helen Hudson Megan Anstee Peter Savage Tel: 078 42 23 52 68 Lambert Jones Mews Richard Collins Editor Emeritus: Lawrence Williams Melissa Bakth Julien Waite Lauderdale Tower Lionel Green Email: [email protected] Averil Baldwin Janet Wells Mountjoy House Andy Hawkins Tel: 07853 836 623 Hannah Bosley Lawrence Williams Seddon House David Graves Advertising: Helen Hudson Joe Coten Shakespeare Tower Sarah Bee Email: [email protected] Gary Donaldson Website Speed House Christopher Makin Tel: 078 42 23 52 68 Michele Haynes Helen Hudson Thomas More House Hugo Dinis Stephanie Ross Helen Hudson Geoff Scapelhorn Wallside Mary Bonar Email: [email protected] Tel: 07753 603 601 Willoughby House Hilary Sunman Kevin Kiernan Design: Trevor Sheldon Juliana Lottmann Email: [email protected] BA Newsletter editor: Robert McKay [email protected] Joanna Lyall Tel: 01322 412157 Articles published, and opinions expressed, do not necessarily represent the views of Print: The Buxton Press, Buxton, Derbys Stephanie Ross The Barbican Association. Contributed articles are welcome, but insertion depends on space available and editorial needs. © Copyright 2020 The Barbican Association Twitter @barbicanlife Instagram @barbicanlife Web www.barbicanlife.com FRANK HARRIE XMAS 20.qxp_Layout 1 09/11/2020 11:24 Page 2
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The City Bloomsbury South Bank 87 Long Lane, 81 Marchmont Street, 123 Stamford Street, London, EC1A 9ET London, WC1N 1AL London, SE1 9NN [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Sales: 020 7600 7000 Sales: 020 7405 4444 Sales: 020 7620 3400 Lettings: 020 7601 1919 Lettings: 020 7387 0077 Lettings: 020 7590 7100 THOMSON BROTHERS SPRING 17_Layout 1 15/02/2017 14:24 Page 1 BARBICANIA.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:19 Page 1
Barbicania Looking Forward ast December I fronted the magazine with the heading “2020 Vision” (ironically), but, despite everything 2020 has brought with it, at least we can Helen Hudson Lclose out the year with some of the more positive outcomes from the last few months. High-rise cultivators Bruce and Fi Robertson discovered their green fingers atop Willoughby House over the summer months and we’ve included lots of their sunny and colourful photos to cheer you up as the chill starts to bite. We’re lucky that Juliana Lottmann moved in before lockdown because she has enough energy and creative positivity to carry us along with her as she shares her new mindfulness project for a greater sense of togetherness in times of isolation. Always a magnetic pull is the history of how our Barbican Estate and surroundings have appeared in films and videos. Whenever I’m looking at a video online (habitually on the London Metropolitan Archives website), I have to keep a close eye on the temptation to keep consuming this rich content, or before I realise it the whole day has disappeared. Joanna Lyall digs into some of the major feature films which have used the Barbican as a location. No Yorkie bars here but Peter Savage still gets to pretend to be a lorry driver and share his cab-life experience in a demonstration run by Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd.’s Community Manager Laura Regan. Growing up in the Barbican, and now with her own blossoming business, Megan Anstee focuses on meaningful connections in a digital world and shares her top tips on how best to host and enjoy virtual events and festivities when we can’t be together. With the first online Barbican Association AGM now accomplished, we welcome our new Barbican Association team. Congratulations to Adam Hogg who is our new BA chair and a round of applause for Jane Smith who vacates the seat after more than a decade but continues to share her experience with us a while longer in the role of deputy chair. We have one restaurant review this issue which we slipped in during the non- lockdown window and thank you to Lawrence for more news on how we can support our locals. Speaking of locals, Resident and owner of Short Eats Melissa Bakth gives us her take on lockdown life and food. Welcome back to our wine expert Gordon Stuteley who follows up with part 2 of his in-depth discovery on the Wines of Calabria. Janet Wells’ takes us online again this issue for her quarterly review of the Arts, Gallery and Museum scene, and we welcome back Gary Donaldson who looks Please Save forward with optimism to the end of lockdown and live Theatre re-emerging from The Date the remote. Our new Education section begins with the music, choristers, history and new 20th developments at St Paul’s Cathedral School, and takes a look at Hatching Dragons January Nursery based in Ironmongers Hall. I have personal experience of the “surely when your someone has done this before / recreating the wheel” research involved in Ward selecting schools, and we will follow up on more insights in the upcoming issues. Members If any of you have insights you would also like to share to help our parents with are planning their school selections, then please email me so we can include your feedback as to hold a we go! virtual Ward Thanks to Neil Andrews for another one of his brilliant London Santa photos Surgery via and like Mr Claus we are stepping into the light optimistically for a better 2021. Zoom. Helen Hudson
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 5 If you have any queries in relation to the Barbican sales or lettings market, the service of this agency or would just like to receive a valuation or rental appraisal of your Barbican flat then please get in touch.
Tom O’Halloran FOR SALE Owner and Director of Thomas Michael Studio, Type F2A, Breton House £515,000
033_BarbicanLifeAd_Nov20.indd 1 10/11/2020 11:09 LOCATION LANDSCAPING.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:52 Page 1 Lockdown Landscaping An Instagram discovery led us to Bruce (and Fi) Robertson in Willoughby House who finally had the time with lockdown to discover some impressively green fingers!
peas, courgettes, radishes, lettuce and rainbow chard. We also started growing some sunflowers, nasturtiums, balsam and sweet peas in the house, to plant out later. We ordered a selection of plants, including a fuscia, corderline, acer, dogwood, and some bedding plants. And whilst waiting what seemed like an age due to COVID affected deliveries we realised that, with our growing population of seedlings and the anticipated new arrivals, we were running out of space (and pots)! To provide height and maximise space we decided that three narrow console tables against the wall of the balcony would be a great solution. However, struggling to find the perfect solution that would let us keep the fire escape clear, we set about making our own. We ordered a walnut kitchen worktop (pre-cut to size) online, and found a supplier of hairpin legs who could then send
espite having lived in the Barbican for three years, we had never had the time to properly cultivate our top floor bedroom balcony. Having checked out of The DStandard Hotel, where I was managing director for five years, and then with the onset of lockdown, time (and travel) were suddenly no longer issues. We had already bought some vegetable seeds – determined to make an effort this time! In April we started growing on our windowsill 7 varieties of tomato (in for a penny and all that!),
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BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 7 LOCATION LANDSCAPING.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:52 Page 2
PETE BALDWIN 1946-2020
eter, known as Pete, was born in Gateshead in Pthe North of England. When he was 16 he travelled on his own down to London to join the civil service, where he enjoyed a rewarding and varied career. He quickly fell in love with London in the “Swinging Sixties” and with the Barbican as well.
Pete could see the top of the Photo courtesy of Averil Baldwin three tower blocks from his office in Holborn, little dreaming that he would one day live there. He moved in with his wife, Averil, in 1977 and stayed until he died 43 years later. When Pete arrived, the Barbican was very different. There was no Arts Centre, and shopping and leisure facilities were limited. Flats were rented and fellow residents an eclectic crowd. Pete’s favourite neighbour was an entertainment impresario, who would invite him to his parties. The chance to rub shoulders with musical it on for powder coating, to our specification. As fans of Memphis legends of the time such as Adam Faith was too good to design, we opted for mint green. Five coats of teak oil and four miss. coats of yacht varnish later and the consoles were ready, and soon When Pete and Averil had a daughter life in the playing host to our new trees and plants. Barbican entered a different phase. Surprisingly, the Our peas were planted out, with a home-made trellis, in mid Barbican was a wonderful place in which to raise a April, with the radishes, lettuce, chard and flowers raised from child. The few Barbican children all got to know each seed following shortly after. At the end of May (after some other, attended the Barbican playgroup, and played hide hardening off) we finally got our tomatoes and courgettes planted and seek safely together in the Gardens. out in pots on the balcony. Once the Arts Centre opened there began a golden We ate our first peas in early June, having already been period of free Sunday lunch-time jazz concerts, snacking on radishes since May. We started eating courgette residency by the Royal Shakespeare Company and the flowers at the start of July, and got some courgettes in July and London Symphony Orchestra, and a state-of the art August (though not our best crop), and then finally, our tomatoes cinema. The culture Pete loved was on his door step. all started ripening in late August and we are still harvesting The Barbican Estate also became popular and the more now. public began to appreciate rather than deride its We’ve also been saving seeds from our sunflowers, sweet peas architecture. It was recognised as being a good place to and balsam and will be using these as favours for Fi’s sister’s live. wedding in October. Pete resisted all attempts to relocate out of London It’s been such an incredible year going for a million miles an and leave the Barbican. He enjoyed travelling, regularly hour and fifty plus flights per year to almost standstill. The plants going to France where he had a holiday home. He throughout our home and balconies have provided a very argued that while he would not move away from the welcome focus during this time and has also made me feel more Barbican, in terms of transport links, there was grounded; tuning in to the pace of nature had been a revelation nowhere easier from which to escape. for me. Pete suffered from Parkinson’s in later life and then Whilst Fi has been working from home throughout she’s felt the Barbican really came in to its own. The high walks they have also given her a real source of respite from the strange were safe and uncrowded, the flat easy to manage, situation we all find ourselves in and something both to marvel at fellow neighbours convenient to visit, and concierges on and look forward to. hand to help. The Barbican now had three cinemas – a As summer draws to a close there have been many lessons tremendous bonus for Pete who was an avid film fan. learned and we are already excited enough to be searching for Many welcoming restaurants, cafes and pubs were some evergreen to get us through the winter, and are awaiting a within easy walking distance. Everything Pete enjoyed rather large number of spring bulbs arriving... and needed was on his doorstep. Living in the Barbican We have been so privileged to have discovered another aspect of contributed hugely to a very happy life. Barbicanlife that makes living here all the more compelling. I think we’ve found a hobby for life.
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MW_Barbican Life.indd 7 28/05/2020 10:22 LOCATION BARBICAN.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:46 Page 1 In the can What’s the Barbican’s enduring appeal for film-makers? Joanna Lyall reports
Filmed almost exclusively in the Barbican, mostly at night, and in winter, with the occasional external shots of Golden Lane Estate, and Peter Jones, Sloane Square, the 2012 directorial debut of Rampling’s son, Barnaby Southcombe, is dark and distinctive and makes extensive use of Beech Street tunnel. Anna, “ a fallen femme fatale, trapped by her own mistakes” according to Rampling, and the insomniac detective, played by Byrne, first meet in a Barbican lift (complete with padded blue curtains) and have a dramatic final scene on the balcony of a tower block flat. “The Barbican seemed the ideal location to make it,” he said. “An independent quarter, rather like the Vatican in Rome, it’s a sort of city within a city, with a distinctive architecture. A troubling space where the wind blows round the tower blocks like a hurricane.” Gabriel Byrne - Timo Elliott, CC BY 2.0
Susan Sarandon - Guillem Medina, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Despite starring David Bowie and Catherine Deneuve the film crime and the unlovely people involved in it - scorchingly violent, was not a success and, according to Scott, considered by sinister, with an undertow of melodrama and self-loathing.” Hollywood, according to Scott, “an artsy, fartsy, esoteric, up itself Starring Malcolm Mc Dowell as an ageing mobster, Paul vampire movie.” Bettany as his younger self, and David Thelwiss as Freddie Mays But Vincent Canby, in the New York Times commended it for “the butcher of Mayfair” the tale follows the group from 1968 and “fast cuts, overlapping dialogue, flashy camera work, wildly has a very strong period feel. fashionable clothes and decor so elegant that only mythical “I come from a photography background and am obsessed with creatures could sit around in it.”And the film is said to have the way things look,” said McGuigan. achieved cult status for its lesbian love scene between Susan Much of the action takes place in Freddie Mays’ flat, reportedly Sarandon, who plays a gerontologist, and the vampire, played by filmed in Lauderdale Tower, but the wall-to-wall period features Catherine Deneuve, dressed by Yves St Laurent. – shag pile carpet, black leather sofas, glass tables, gold leaf, and Bowie, another vampire, ages 200 years in the doctor’s waiting cocktail cabinets, make it difficult to discern any Barbican room, filmed in Senate House, Bloomsbury. The scene was characteristics. deemed a triumph for make-up master, Dick Smith as Bowie was But the final scene, in which Freddie, and his moll, (played by 36 at the time. Saffron Burrows), are reunited, clearly takes place on the Released the same year as The Hunger, The Ploughman’s Lunch, podium. Having survived an attack which nearly killed them directed by Richard Eyre, with a script by Ian McEwan, includes both, and Mays’ years in prison, the happy couple are watched by shots of Jonathan Pryce, playing a radio journalist, on a date at the from above by the gangster supremo from a balcony. Barbican Centre, with a televison researcher, played by Charlie Dore. An alternative ending, which had Mays driving through the “A bleak, satirical commentary on Thatcher’s England,” windows of the flat in an Aston Martin, and off the high rise according to Robert McCrum, writing in The Guardian, The balcony was abandoned. Ploughman’s Lunch, which also featured Rosemary Harris and Judi Dench as M was filmed in the Sculpture Court, doubling Frank Finlay, won best film in the 1984 Evening Standard awards. as the outside of MI6 in the 2008 Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. In 1987, The Fourth Protocol a cold way spy story, adapted from “This is a crash-bang Bond, high on action, low on quips, long on the novel by Frederick Forsyth location glamour,” said Peter Bradshaw in The Guardian of the and starring Michael Caine and film which was also shot in Italy, Chile, Austria and Panama. Pierce Brosnan was also partly Three years before she married Prince Harry, Meghan Markle shot in the Barbican Centre. appeared, along with a Barbican location, in the British gangland Gangster No1, directed by Paul film, Anti- Social. Directed and written by Reg Traviss, it rated McGuigan and released in 2000 two stars from Frank Kermode in The Observer as a “peculiarly was praised by the critics for its uneven endeavour” while Time Out found it lacking in energy, sense of period. Writing in The despite some likeable acting, and “vile about women.” Last year Observer Peter Preston said: Woman & Home described Markle’s role, playing the girlfriend of “There isn’t a false note in this a street artist, as one of her best. artfully structured saga of gang In the episode which launched BBC1’s successful crime series, life through the past 30 years.” Luther Alice (Ruth Wilson) a former child prodigy suspected of The Guardian judged it killing both her parents and the family dog (in whose corpse she Jonathan Pryce - Greg2600, CC BY- “plausible and sure-footed” - “a hides the murder weapon) lives in Barbican flat with a view of St SA 2.0
12 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 G& D AUTUMN 19_Layout 1 05/08/2019 11:03 Page 1
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himself “more in love with the London landmarks and the beautiful shots of the Barbican estate than anything else.” The second series of BBC 1’s Killing Eve, broadcast last year, saw Villanelle (played by Jodie Comer) being reprimanded for sleeping in the Barbican launderette and Eve (played by Sandr Oh) strolling down the steps from the Sculpture Court with her erstwhile boss Carolyn (Fiona Shaw). Fees for location filming can mean a steady income stream for some local authorities. A national survey by Stephen Follows, of Film Industry and Data and Education, found that in the ten years between 2006 and 2015, local councils in the UK earned over £23 million from location filming. In 2015 the City of London income from filming was £172,189, below that of Camden (£758,705) but ahead of Islington which made £120,510. Nick Daubeny, a location manager who spent 30 years in the business, winning a BAFTA award and working on films such as by Scarlett Marshall and James Calloway meet on the 243 bus Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and the and start to get to know each other. And the inspiration was Prisoner of Azkaban, Shadowlands, V for Vendetta, Onegin and autobiographical, according to Hillary. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, believes the Barbican has an “I got the idea for the film originally on a bus,” she said. “My obvious appeal to film makers which will endure. favourite song from when I was 16 came on -Pieces by Sum41- It “It’s an iconic piece of modern London for a start and all those took me right back to the feeling of being that age, and I started angles and spaces make attractive, and versatile [backgrounds],” reminiscing about it all.” he says. And the survival of St Giles’ church surrounded by the “I hadn’t been kissed and was really self-conscious about it and modern estate also makes it special, he believes. “And all those used to dream about meeting some boy on a bus. And Anna went corridors have all sorts of possibilities,” he says. through quite a few of the same issues as Ben, measuring herself A report by film consultant James Waller, presented to the by her school grades, so the themes in the film are very close to Corporation of London in June 2019 said that income to the City our hearts.” from filming in 2018 was £880,667. This came from 34 buildings “We chose to film in the Barbican because it’s where we grew owned by the corporation, including the Barbican Centre and the up and a lot of our memories from that time are here. A lot of the Barbican Estate. The Barbican Centre, which describes itself as film is semi- autobiographical so it made sense for one of the ”a fantastic location for filming and photography with views of characters to live here.” the heroic brutalist estate designed by Bon and Powell, St. Giles’ “It’s also very interesting visually. It’s not generic London and Cripplegate and St Paul’s Cathedral” accounted for £73, 794 of has a real sense of place so really adds to the authenticity of the that income, making it one of the ten top locations in the City. film, we feel.” The report suggested that promoting the use of the buildings They found filming round the estate quite straightforward. “We through a single location agency could bring in an extra £151,543 had a very small crew and were careful not to bother anyone. over three years. And we had an advantage of having grown up here and knowing A spokesman for the City of London Corporation said: “ In lots of the residents,” she said. recent years very little large scale filming has taken place at the They shot in the Wallside home of their parents, Stephan and Barbican, with all activity being focused on the estate’s walkways, Rosamund, and in the Gilbert House home of their grandmother, and film crews restricted to 10 people to reduce potential Lina Kukowski, one of the original residents of the Barbican, who disruption and noise.” also appears in the film. But the appeal of the Barbican remains. Asked for advice for any film-makers starting out she replied In complete contrast to noir thrillers, vampires and gangster “Use what you’ve got.” And that, of course, is what the movies, Soundtrack to Sixteen is a warm, slightly zany, coming of Shakespeare sisters did. age tale, dealing with teenage anxieties, exam worries, physics projects and school rivalries. Premiered in March this year it won best micro budget feature award in the London Independent Film Festival. The website, UK Film Review judged it “unapologetically and unashamedly British” and “bound to elicit a strong emotional response from anyone who grew up in the UK in the last 20 years.” It is the work of Hillary Shakespeare and her younger sister, Anna- Elizabeth, who both grew up in the Barbican, where they shot the film, using many of their friends as extras. Queen’s College, Harley Street, where they went to school also features, as does Camden Passage, Islington. One of the most touching scenes is when the main characters, Maisy and Ben, played ©Soundtrack to Sixteen features the children’s play area adjacent to Thomas More Lawn
14 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 CUBITTS XMAS 20.qxp_Layout 1 10/11/2020 10:09 Page 1
For the person with good taste, but poor vision
cubitts.com EMBRACING KINDNESS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:48 Page 1 Embracing Kindness Resident Juliana Lottmann shares her new mindfulness project for a greater sense of togetherness in times of isolation
feel that this crazy period of the past 10+ months of It’s an activity for the whole family, which comes in handy when lockdowns, face masks, alcohol gel, 2m rule... have taken a in the confinement of your home during lockdown and isolations. Ihuge toll on our communities. It can help bring families together, and give a moment of pause, When sneezing leads to hostile looks instead of ‘bless you’, we allowing little ones to experiment with diverse colours and all instinctively know that something is missing. materials. Parents and children creating together and teaching I think that this something is the explicit understanding that each other new skills during a bonding activity. we’re all in this together. Then, there’s the process of hiding the painted rocks around Belonging is part of our basic needs and covid is creating a lot the community, and then seeing the photos and posts of our art, of distance between us. So, I stop to think, how can we bring back uplifting those around us, and giving us a platform to share. our sense of community and kindness, even in this long period of The person finding a surprise gift will experience a feeling of enforced distance? happiness, having a sense of community is a foundation for I came up with three related projects with the intention of feelings of safety and security. The social media platform, allows helping the small community to connect, and to give all of us, people to get in touch with each other from a safe distance. individually and together a reason to come back out of isolation. When I started creating this project, we thought about creating At the core is the ‘Embrace kindness’, rock painting project, classes in the community centre. For now, we will have to hold with the following aims: bringing mindfulness trough painting, this until Covid restrictions allow us to meet in person again. The kindness trough spreading words of support, and community by Facebook page is full of guides and instructions on how to start, putting people onto a common social platform to interact with and even how to create your own stones with cement, each other. demonstrated by my 10 year-old son. Painting rocks can be a fabulous mindfulness project for all For my family, this project already started to give fruits, it ages, expressing yourself with a message, drawing or colouring, it brings us all together, creating and teaching each other new can help you relax and deal with anxiety, stress, and to feel better. techniques, and we experience the joy of going to the park, hiding
16 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 DENZIL AUTUMN 20.qxp_Layout 1 14/08/2020 09:11 Page 1 EMBRACING KINDNESS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:48 Page 2
Halloween this year, but as someone in a vulnerable family nucleus, I completely agree with the decision. So, I decided to create a stones treasure hunt in the Barbican gardens, the idea is that for 2 days, families can go to the garden, find the stones, share the photos of the stones and their costumes, and after each child receives a monster glove, full of sweets and the encouragement to start creating their own stones. This ensures that children can still go out in costumes and have a rewarding activity and some well-deserved sweets. With each family doing their own hunt, it becomes an activity that respects socially distancing. And fruits already started to bloom, more parents in the community offered to help to distribute the sweets, showing that the care and sense of community are alive and well inside the Barbican walls. Christmas will bring another activity to embrace kindness, we will be making gratitude stones, we will think about what we are grateful for and create some gratitude stones to give to our loved ones. An activity that mixes wellbeing with kindness towards the ones we love. and to hide in the nearby parks and hopefully spread some of the joy in the big neighbourhood. I will be creating tutorials, sharing ideas and proposing a few zoom art and mindfulness classes on Facebook, and hopefully the stones. My little one is such an avid art creator that I had to many more will come forward as admin on the page, making this think about alternative materials for him to paint, as we ran out a proper community sharing page. The beauty of kindness is that of stones, so we started working on wood. I also found myself it grows exponentially, one pure act of kindness can generate alone making some dotted mandalas, a very calming activity for many more. moments when we have a full mind. When we engage in creative activities, we flood our body with stress reducing hormones, and we activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Mindful painting can be a type of meditation, and extremely relaxing. The kindness stones project came to stay in our house, and hopefully will be part of the community for some time to come, but two other small projects came parallel to it. Halloween was the kickstart of this project, I was very sad when I found out that trick or treating was not going to be part of
A bit about me. Coming from a family of ecologists, political activists and healers, community work runs in my family. I started volunteering in London in 2007 with cancer charities like Macmillan and Orchid cancer research, after 2009 I turned my focus toward children and women’s mental health. For the past 2 years, my focus has been working with mindfulness, for children in the form of kids yoga classes, and for adults as mindfulness classes and women’s circles, meditative and sharing meetings for mental wellbeing. More than half of my work at the moment is free, with St Luke’s community centre and LAWRS, Latin American women’s rights services. It is my believe that community and a sense of belonging are part of our basic needs, but we tend to put it aside because of other commitments, and now, in this time of lockdown, we are more than ever suffering from isolation and with anxiety. As a new resident of the Barbican community, I decided to engage via this project.
18 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 PMI CABINETS SUMMER 20.qxp_Layout 1 01/06/2020 13:08 Page 1
@pmicabinets SAVAGE- RESTRICTED VIEWS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:50 Page 1
A “Restricted” View from the Cab Peter Savage gets behind the wheel One would have thought that the HGV articulated lorry driver would have an excellent view of the road from his seat 10ft (3m) up. But not so.
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n addition to driving his lorry the driver is working out which route to take, which lane to be in, observing the traffic lights, the movement of other vehicles and keeping Ian eye on eight mirrors! In association with the Metropolitan Police Roads and Transport Policing Command and Transport for London, Sir Robert McAlpine provided one of its tractors to demonstrate the blind spots which have contributed to a number of tragic 4 accidents involving cyclists and some pedestrians. It was an eyeopener - in more ways than one – to sit in the driver’s seat and realise what a restricted view he has. Apart from the obvious blind spot to the rear when reversing - hence the requirement to have a “banksman” to guide him – cyclists coming up close to the vehicle on either side are invisible to the driver. More relevant to you and me if crossing the road in front of one of these behemoths is the fact that we too cannot be seen if walking close to the cab.
Acknowledgments My thanks to Laura Regan, Community Manager, Sir Robert 5 McAlpine Ltd, for organising this demonstration.
1. Savage at the wheel 2. The tractor 3. Four mirrors on the offside 4. The position of the mirrors 5. Blind spots
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20 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 Rozeman Architects & Joiners Brothers Ltd Barbican architectural design and build
We have worked successfully at the Barbican since 2007, offering a full range of services: - all consent applications: planning, building control and landlord consent - architecture + interior + product design - full refurbishment - kitchens - bathrooms - bespoke furniture - bespoke lighting design - specification + supply of soft furnishings - furniture selection and sourcing
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[email protected] www.rozeman.co.uk
Barbican Life-6A.indd 1 22/09/2019 11:42 VIRTUAL XMAS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:28 Page 1
It’s Beginning to Look Like a Virtual Christmas Megan Anstee guides us in the new art of virtual festivities
f you were to ask any of us a year ago may find that a Winter Wine Tasting is the what our Christmas social plans perfect option, or perhaps a Wreath would look like, it’s unlikely that the Making Workshop could be the ideal Ianswer would involve sitting in front choice for those looking to include the of a computer at home… However, in 2020, whole family (plus you can display for all the answer is almost certainly going to your neighbours to see). And of course, include the word ‘virtual’ to some extent. don’t forget the Christmas jumpers! At the point of writing this, we are still waiting to hear if we will be able to see 5) Make the experience friends and family over the festive period. your gift Whilst we hope to be getting together in Many people say that experiences make person, celebrating at our favourite local more memorable gifts. The beauty of the hotspots, with travel restrictions, limits on virtual experience is that it can do both! group numbers and people shielding, it’s With personalised boxes sent straight to likely that we’ll have to integrate digital door, the virtual experience can replace socialising in some capacity. 2) Don’t overcomplicate Christmas shopping by providing gift Everyone is now familiar with the zoom Whilst there are of course similarities in packages specifically designed for guests quiz fatigue, but there are ways to make the planning, the prospect of running a to enjoy during the experience. The sure the virtual festivity has that special virtual event can seem daunting, with the anticipation for the event is heightened something. In essence, it’s the same things increased reliance on technology. and it will quickly break down those that make a great in person party as a Consider the fundamentals of what you virtual barriers, as everyone gets chatting virtual party…it’s just done slightly need – the ability for guests to see and about what they have received! If you are differently. interact with each other, food and drink, a wanting to see people on camera, we With all of this in mind, we present our central entertainment, activity or theme would consider including strong visual top 5 tips for the ‘remote’ Christmas and then build from there. Also, consider elements, like Christmas hats, for people celebration. that virtual events tend to be best left to wear and see. shorter than their in-person equivalents. We find a maximum event time of 2-2.5 Whilst 2020 hasn’t exactly looked the hours works best. same, we’re all searching for the same ways to mark the festive period in a way 3) Personalise the experience that honours our own traditions. As we Personalising the experience will result in move into the new year, these virtual a more engaging experience for everyone. events can help us celebrate, connect and Can you offer options of the activities to come together at a time we need it most! the group? In the same way if you were ordering drinks for a table in a restaurant, can you allow them choice in the contents of any Christmas goody box being sent out to match their tastes?
4) Build togetherness through shared experience 1) Embrace the benefits When planning Ultimately a virtual get-together is more an event to inclusive – your guests don’t have to appeal to broad worry about childcare, travel or anything range of guests, it related to social distancing – and you can can be hard to reach even the most remote of friends. All know where to Bio they need is a device with a camera, and start when you Megan is the Co-Founder and Creative Director an internet connection. You may also find have to think at The Intrepid Collective. Megan grew up in that your ideal activity is available about the different ages, interests and the Barbican, where her parents still live. virtually and at a better cost than in schedules. Consider what types of events You can find out more about the virtual and person. The best thing – when you’ve had have worked well in the past, then look at in-person event services provided by The enough, there is no lengthy travel time to how this can translate into a virtual Intrepid Collective, on their website: get home. setting. A social group that enjoys a drink www.theintrepidcollective.com.
22 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 NO BACKBONE.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:32 Page 1
No Backbone Minibeasts of the Barbican Woodlice
Runners, Clampers & Rollers oodlice have 14 legs, carry their babies in a pouch like a kangaroo and eat their own poo to recycle the copper required Wto carry oxygen in their blue blood. (Mammals use iron which is why we have red blood.) Common Rough Woodlouse There are over 40 species of woodlice in the UK. Four species can be (Porcellio scaber) easily found in the Barbican Estate gardens, although on first appearance they all look quite similar and the same species can vary greatly in colour Common Striped Woodlouse which doesn’t help matters. So how do we tell them apart? (Philoscia muscorum) The Common Striped Woodlouse has a stripe running down the middle of its “back”. The Common Rough Woodlouse has a rough skin like a mini-rhino whereas the Common Shiny Woodlouse is smooth and mottled. Behaviour when threatened can also help tell woodlice species apart. The Common Pill Woodlouse is the only one of the four that rolls up in a ball like a hedgehog. Striped will usually make a run for it whereas Rough and Smooth tend to clamp down and stay still.
Waterlogged Common Pill Woodlouse Woodlice are crustaceans, related to shrimps, crabs and lobsters. Like (Armadillidium vulgare) insects, woodlice have an exoskeleton, meaning their bones are on the Common Shiny Woodlouse outside like a suit of armour. However, unlike insects, they do not have a (Oniscus asellus) waterproof skin (waxy cuticle) so are vulnerable to drying out. This is why woodlice prefer feeding at night when there’s no sunlight to worry about. The best places to find woodlice during the day is under logs and stones, amongst leaf litter or other damp places. They are often found hiding together in large groups which can help protect individuals from both desiccation and predation. rolled up Common Pill So with their skeleton on the outside how does a woodlouse grow? It Woodlouse loses the exoskeleton to allow a new, larger version to replace it. This moulting occurs in two stages, first the back half is shed and a day or so later the front half falls off. The woodlouse then eats the discarded skin to recycle the calcium that it contains.
Stomach Pills Talking of eating, in olden times woodlice were used for treating heartburn and indigestion. Considering their exoskeletons are Common Shiny Woodlouse colour variant predominately calcium carbonate, the main ingredient of Rennies, they probably worked! Apart from man, the main predators of woodlice are centipedes, toads, underside of a Common Pill shrews and spiders. The Woodlouse Spider, as its name suggests, is a Woodlouse woodlice-eating specialist. They hunt at night and do not spin webs. Their large jaws (chelicerae) pierce the woodlouse’s tough exoskeleton and then inject venom into the soft insides. Nowadays we don’t tend to eat woodlice but they’re sometimes considered pests, especially when found in our homes, so we still kill them. However, woodlice are harmless and just indicate humidity and decay. They don't sting, bite or transmit disease, and they don't cause material damage, feeding only on rotten wood or other vegetable matter in cool, damp areas. Woodlice, like earthworms, are actually important nutrient recyclers. So next time you see a chisel-hog, bibble-bug, chuggy-pig or granny- sow (to mention just a few of the many nicknames given to woodlice over freshly moulted Common Shiny Woodlouse Spider the centuries), please show it some love! Woodlouse (Dysdera crocata) Thanks to Julien Waite for this article and photos! Next issue: Beetle Mania
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 23 PAGE 24 XMAS 20.qxp_proof 24/11/2020 09:35 Page 1
Your local expert physiotherapy service FACE TO FACE, VIDEO AND HOME VISITS AVAILABLE Unlike the first lockdown, medical practices have been advised to stay open for face to face consultations. We continue to follow our covid risk guidelines to keep visitors and staff safe and to offer local home visits (up to 15 minute walk from the clinic) for the same cost as a visit to our clinic. Please call or email us with any queries, we are happy to answer any questions you may have. And thank you to those who are attending, as a small business we are always grateful that you choose us, but particularly at this difficult time.
barbican physio 1 The Postern Wood Street, EC2Y 8BJ 0207 606 6530 [email protected] www.barbicanphysio.co.uk EDUCATION.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 13:05 Page 1
Education TAKING A CLOSER LOOK AT OUR SCHOOLS St Paul’s Cathedral School: Music, Choristers, History and New Developments By Stephanie Ross ubilate – 500 Years of Cathedral Music, is a Classical Music Chart topping CD recorded in St Paul’s Cathedral, featuring the beautiful In the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries the school was Jsinging of St Paul’s Cathedral School choristers. Choirs from 50 British more famous for its acting than its singing. The Children of St Paul's had cathedrals, abbeys, minsters and churches have collaborated on this their own resident playwrights, performed regularly at Greenwich Palace celebration of Britain’s rich 1,400 year old choral music heritage. Album before Queen Elizabeth 1 and incurred the wrath of Shakespeare and his sales raise money for the Diamond Fund for Choristers set up in 2016 to professional company just over the river. (In Hamlet he rails against the support choral music for many years to come and to help young choral company of 'little eyases' who are roundly applauded for their histrionic singers – more than half of cathedral choristers are children after all. efforts). After the Restoration the choristers enjoyed a somewhat There has been a song school associated with St Paul's Cathedral since chequered history, but a vigorous campaign by the redoubtable Maria its foundation in 604. The Choir School for boy choristers dates from Hackett lasting some sixty years led to the re-establishment of a purpose- about 1123, when 8 boys in need of alms were provided with a home and built school in Carter Lane to the south-west of the Cathedral in 1874. education in return for singing the Cathedral Office. Gradually two There it remained until the 1960s, when, under threat of demolition due schools emerged, the Choir School and the Grammar School. For many to a road-widening scheme, it moved to its present site in New Change. years they co-existed happily, the choristers graduating to the Grammar school to finish their education, until the latter was re-founded by Dean Colet in 1511 and became St Paul's School. (It is now in Barnes and has only a tenuous connection with the Cathedral.)
Today, the school is a thriving co-educational school for boys and girls aged 4 to 13. Almost 10 years ago the school and cathedral recognised that accommodation for its choristers needed modernisation and that facilities for all its pupils needed developing. The site on which the school is built is of special historical interest as part of it sits over what was the nave of St Augustine’s church, which was bombed in WW2. The tower which is Grade 1 listed still stands and is incorporated into the school. In addition, the 1960s school building, brutalist in style with many echoes with the Barbican (some of the door furniture is the same), is also listed, and so gaining permission to redevelop part of the site was complex and lengthy. Planning permission was granted in the December of 2016, just at the end of the first term in office of the current Headmaster, Simon Larter- Evans, in conjunction with Kilburn Nightingale Architects and Borras Construction. Architect Ben Kilburn says: “Our aim was to find a sensitive architectural language that would connect the new building both with Wren’s restrained baroque church tower and the classic brutalism of the adjacent 1960s school buildings.” The new buildings are clad predominantly in Portland stone, echoing
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 25 EDUCATION.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 13:05 Page 2
Be n Painted by Frank Beresford, born in Derby in 1881. He first studied at the Derby School of Art, then St John's Wood Art School and finally at the Royal Academy Schools. His talent was rewarded with a travel scholarship that took him to Asia. From 1906 he returned to exhibit at the Royal Academy. During World War II Beresford was only the second person to be awarded an Exceptional Service Award from the United States Air Force, which also has some of his paintings on permanent display. Beresford was a war artist for both the American and British air forces. His portraits include those of the Spitfire designer, Reginald Joseph Mitchell. The aircraft is A British Short Stirling bomber, 'H for Harry', of the RAF, on display outside St Paul's Cathedral, London, during the 'Wings for Victory Week' campaign, aimed at raising funds to buy bomber aircraft. February 1943, the public got to meet a ‘Heroine’ from XV Sqn and helped raise money for the war effort at the same time. The ‘Heroine’ was Stirling bomber, operations with the Sqn, a record for interest and remained on display into the N3669, LS-H, a veteran of sixty-nine Stirlings. The aircraft generated much following month.
the 1960s school buildings and St Augustine’s Tower, as well as St Paul’s accommodation and a three-tiered playground will also be in full Cathedral itself. The new Chorister boarding house replaces the nave of commission. From Sept 2021, the school will be welcoming even more St Augustine’s Church, linking the Grade I listed St Augustine’s Tower children as Reception opens to two form entry. By 2023, the school roll with the existing Grade II boarding house. expects to have grown from 250 to nearly 300, creating more Fast forward four years and the new development is coming to opportunities for children living in or near the City. completion. By the time readers are reading this the choristers will be in The Very Revd Dr David Ison, Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral and Chair of T new accommodation and getting ready for (all things being well) the Governors, says, “Choristership is central to the Cathedral’s life and its T Christmas services. New classrooms, an extended dining room, new staff tradition of sung worship, which has been a mainstay of the Cathedral for
ANTICIPATE TOMORROW CHORISTERS – ORDINARY CHILDREN DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS
/ BANKER / LAWYER / ACTOR / CRICKETER / ARCHITECT / FARMER / / SCIENTIST / TEACHER / MUSICIAN / DIPLOMAT / SURGEON / FINANCE / / RESEARCHER / DOCTOR / ECOLOGIST / DEVELOPER / CURATOR / / ACCOUNTANT / PRODUCER / AUTHOR / COACH / DENTIST / / PHARMACIST / ARTIST / CHEF / JOURNALIST / DIRECTOR / www.spcslondon.com/choristers
26 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 EDUCATION.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 13:05 Page 3
over 800 years. This new development will provide much needed space Hatching Dragons Nursery: Why Does for the School and enable us to extend the offer we can give to visiting choirs as well as enhancing support for our flagship music outreach Learning Through Play Matter? programme” An Insider’s Perspective The Cathedral Choir (voted into the top ten best choirs in the world by by Sophie Marchant BBC Music Magazine) is resident at St Paul's throughout most of the year. It consists of up to 30 boy treble Choristers, several probationers and 12 Vicars Choral - all professional adult singers who sing alto, tenor and bass. At the heart of the Choir's being is the singing of Choral Evensong each day, with Choral Mattins and Sung Eucharist on Sundays. As well as this traditional routine, the Choir frequently gives concerts and broadcasts, as well as producing critically-acclaimed recordings and touring across the world. There is an interesting short Youtube video about a chorister’s life at https://www.spcslondon.com/choristers/ chorister- video The Guild of the Companions of St Paul is the network for former Choristers of St Paul's and musicians who have been associated with the Cathedral. Being a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral is a unique and special experience, leading State functions of often international significance, s a parent, understanding the principles that underpin the and producing music of rare complexity and beauty. St Paul’s Choir Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) can be really enjoyed arguably its highest profile moment when the Cathedral hosted empowering, since it will allow you to comprehend the the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. A different stages of development of your child from 3 months to 5 With 100% scholarships, chorister places are available for boys starting and a half years of age. On this occasion, we’ll talk about “Learning in Year 3, Year 4 or in exceptional cases in Year 5 and can join at any time through play”: what it is and why it’s important. in the school year. A Coming from all walks of life, the opportunity to train as a chorister What is Learning Through Play? P breaks down barriers, builds life skills, and offers children “the single There is one need that every child has, to make sense of the greatest leg-up a child can be given in life”, says Alexander Armstrong, world around them. Whether in a cultural, social or technological former chorister, television and radio presenter, comedian, actor and setting, children use play to repeat actions, test ideas, and confirm singer. Former Captain of the English Cricket Team, Alistair Cook what they already know. All the repetitive actions that children frequently cites his training as a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral for his do, also known as Schemas, have an explanation behind them. astonishing composure and focus under pressure. Choristers go on to For example, if your baby is throwing food on the floor over and thrive in many walks of life. over again, it’s likely that this Trajectory Schema is helping them to understand gravity. Although messy, it’s their own way of understanding their surroundings! Have you heard about our Why is it important? amazing nursery In the Early Years, the child’s brain is still developing and very much in in the Barbican? ‘explore’ mode. They move around, try things and play with them, as that is how their brain best works at that stage. In repeating an action, they help form synapses that will stay with them into adulthood and develop problem-solving and cognitive skills.
How can you support it? Engaging children in play will help them to learn from you. It can be simple things such as playing with cars or making noises. For example, role play is important for their social development, as children are using their imagination to make sense of social boundaries and expected behaviour. In our nurseries, we often provide activities that will encourage your child to continue learning in a way that may not always be obvious. We might ask them to act out a creature or encourage them to explore movement in a different way. Why? We are using their natural ability to play to our advantage. In doing so, their Hatching Dragons City brain is switched on and they are having fun, whilst building the foundations of learning. English-Mandarin Bilingual Nursery
Children from 6 months to 5 years old Sophie is part of the team at Hatching Dragons. We have bilingual Highly qualified & caring staff nurseries in Barbican and Westminster, plus an Online Preschool.
Ironmongers Hall, Aldersgate St, EC2Y 8AA 020 3912 2900 More info at www.hatching-dragons.com www.hatching-dragons.com Hatching Dragons Nursery, Ironmongers Hall, Aldersgate Street, EC2Y 8AA
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 27 RESTAURANT.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:55 Page 1
Restaurant Reviews and News ANGLER PLUS A review of a new pre-lockdown lunch offering from Michelin starred Angler - possibly the best of our local restaurants in some opinions - and details of the many local restaurants which have indicated that they will re-open once lockdown ends. 36 month aged Parmesan gougères
Bread first and the Angler beer bread with caramelised yeast & malt butter arrives. This bread sings the glory of Marmite and could be eaten almost as a meal by itself because it is so well seasoned. The malt butter just tips things over to a level of bliss but do try not to pig out on the bread (if you can resist!). We were spoilt for choice with the canapés. Depending on the day, you may also be able to enjoy the (slightly bigger than bite sized balls of heavenly) parmesan gougères or the delicately delicious squid ink crackers. This was my first interaction with squid ink anything; the crackers melt in your mouth and follow-up with a brazen salty taramasalata kick.
e have resurrected our restaurant The ‘Compleat’ Angler coverage in the December issue despite Wreverting to lockdown which means Experience that our review opportunities have been nipped here can be no doubt that Angler is one of in the bud yet again. However, if all goes to plan our best local restaurants. Merely a stagger we could be out of lockdown again by the time Taway atop the South Place Hotel about this issue comes through your letterbox and halfway between Moorgate and Liverpool Street Squid ink cracker with taramasalata, espelette hopefully the restaurants we have noted in the stations, Angler has dazzled with its Michelin star pepper following article will have been able to re-open quality for over 7 years now and we have been yet again. However one has to accept that being lucky enough to review new menu releases forced to close has put many of our brilliant local regularly. The brilliant news of the moment is Our third canapé was a couple of cheese and restaurants in dire financial straits so it is all the that Executive Chef, Gary Foulkes, is now inviting onion tarts. The pastry was delicately crisp and tail more important that Barbican residents do make us in for Saturday lunches on the Angler Terrace thin and the common taste combination of the effort to utilise these to the extent they can, – making for a perfect weekend option for us cheddar and onion was made incredible with the or possibly lose them altogether. locals! sweet caramelisation of the onion and the We commence this article with the only The Terrace transports you to Provence with addition of garlic to the mix. review we have been able to undertake at the its fully glazed rooftop garden room and its Our 3 courses began with a mackerel tartare. superlative Michelin-starred Angler restaurant retractable roof. Heaters kick into life on cold I’m not normally a fan of sashimi, but the gentle from the D&D Group. Angler is not only perhaps days so every day is a conservatory day here. texture and subtle flavour were spot on. The the best of the restaurants close at hand to the Seating is spacious (especially important right combination of mackerel with the apple tasted Barbican,but it benefits also from a superb now) and Angler is up on point with all the latest amazing and the crispy onion crumbs added a covered and heated terrace thus enabling it to protection measures such as barcode menus. perfect crunch to this beautiful creation. accommodate diners when normal indoor eating The menu will vary but will always be jaw- My partner chose the exceptionally well is discouraged by coronavirus -related dropping. You can elect to have 3 courses for prepared Moules marinière accompanied by a restrictions and our excuse for yet another £45 or 6 courses for £60 if the boat is being small toastie with finely diced mussles. review was its opening for Saturday lunches on pushed out. Wine is not included in these prices, Remember the sensation when you want to pick the terrace which, as you will see from the but there is a wine list to match all tastes up the plate and lick every drop at the end of a following certainly wowed our reviewers. available. dish?
28 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 RESTAURANT.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:56 Page 2
There were two main courses on offer: at the fundamental level, these were fish and chips, and chicken pie, but the reality takes these listings to a new level! The fish was light and flaky and the batter felt deliciously guilty without being oily and greasy. The chips were a magnificence of mille-feuille- like potato slices.
Sa Montgomery cheddar, caramelised onion & black garlic tart P.B.C (peanut, banana, chocolate) resting on a small but sensational biscuit. Fish & chips with The other dessert was based on Greek Truman's beer yoghurt. I thought the pie had been my battered fish, favourite meal of the day, but now I changed my Angler chips and mind! This masterpiece was a construction of tartar hollandaise Greek yoghurt and honey ice cream with delicious blobs of banana jelly and banana ice For me, the chicken pie was the best dish of cream, too. You must try this one! the day. All the flavours married together dreamily and there was not a thing on my plate that didn't deserve to be there. Every mouthful of a new taste felt like “oh yes, that tastes even more wonderful”. One other thing: this was the Tartare of Cornish mackerel with oyster cream, BEST MASHED POTATO I HAVE EVER EATEN and I still think about it to this day.
Greek yoghurt, blossom honey, banana, hazelnut
Chicken & tarragon pithivier with Scottish girolles, Obviously, you don’t have to choose the kabocha squash and roast chicken sauce Saturday menu when you come. On our day, there was a couple a few tables away from us We normally get to this point in a restaurant who were having the (very tempting) Tasting review and I think to myself that there is very Menu. We also spoke to another younger couple little that I can’t be happy about eating next; this from France who were on a budget tour but the is pudding, after all, and what can go wrong! Angler was on their “must do” list. Enough said! One typically accepts that a tart dessert will be a As I’m writing, we’re about to go back into triangle of joy and will come with ice cream or lockdown, but I highly recommend a visit for cream! Saturday lunch when our sentences are over. Obviously, eating at a Michelin starred restaurant is altogether a different deal. Here you South Place Hotel, 3 South Place, Moules are feasting on the artwork and the innovation, London, EC2M 2AF 020 3215 1260 marinière with and the magical combination of flavours and [email protected] white wine, textures which are skilfully crammed into such garlic and beautiful creations. Like flying first class, I’m not One last thing before I leave you - this was a parsley sauce too sure I’m going to be able to enjoy standard really magical review and the food is divine. fare with gusto ever again, to be honest! When I started to write it up, I had to break off to One of the desserts was simply annotated as have some lunch because my taste buds and PBC. It was incredible: a delicious banana ice tummy were getting angry, having to relive this cream quenelle balanced perfectly on top of a magnificent meal only on pen and paper! generous peanut and chocolate mousse ball Reviewed by Jamie Clifford and Angus Mylne
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 29 RESTAURANT.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:56 Page 3
aways and deliveries via services like Deliveroo and Just Eat. RESTAURANT Angler (see above for their recently initiated NEWS weekend offering). Michelin-starred restaurant focused on fish dishes, but does also serve other fare. The enclosed and heated terrace may be of any, although not all, of our local help here in accommodating diners post- restaurants had only just managed to lockdown. Consistently one of the best, and one Mre-open after the first lockdown, and of our favourite restaurants in the area. Bleeding Heart Bistro and Tavern - Slightly many benefited from the Chancellor’s ‘Eat out to further afield, but great ambience and excellent help out’ scheme. But now they have had to Aprés Food - Describe themselves as health food French cuisine in Bleeding Heart Yard, off shut down again due to the second lockdown. revolutionaries. Small restaurant on St. John Greville Street on the other side of Farringdon Hopefully the measures they had had to put in Street. Co-founder, Catherine, is a respected Road. The flagship Bleeding Heart restaurant is place to re-start in the summer will enable them accredited Nutritionist and functional medicine closed temporarily but there are plans to re- to re-open quickly when the current (as I write) practitioner, with years of experience as a chef. open it once we return to anywhere near lockdown ends and, hopefully. benefit from the Also offers take-away and delivery service normal. Christmas season, although I fear some may be forced to close down permanently as some have already, including Hix in Greenhill Rents off Cowcross Street. Lockdowns have meant that restaurants have been struggling to survive. They need your support if they are to remain open. Anyway here follows a listing of some of our local eating establishments which had come back into action prior to the second enforced closure period and most plan to re-open again when the current lockdown ends. Some are offering take-away meals in the meantime. If interested phone ahead and check them out. There may be some others planning to open when the latest lockdown ends, but we have so far been unable to confirm their re-opening plans. Several have also mentioned the government’s pre-lockdown advice on business Bowling Bird - Smallish restaurant in a building lunches as follows: Bookings for working Apulia - Family run Italian restaurant on Long on the West Smithfield end of Cloth Fair which lunches without the restriction of the 'single Lane concentrating on food from the southern used to be the home of John Betjeman. household rule' are permitted within the rules if Italian Puglia region. Owner, Vicenzo, has come
they are business-related. Business to London to try to introduce as many people as Broadgate Circle Restaurants - Around a entertainment meals should be booked in possible to the traditional dishes of his region. dozen restaurants and cafes grouped around advance. The rule of six still applies. Presumably what used to be an outdoor ice rink in the this will apply post-lockdown too. Barbican Kitchen - Self service restaurant on Broadgate development next to Liverpool Street Living in the Barbican we are somewhat spoilt the ground floor of the Barbican Centre. Station. Most of these have outdoor areas which for choice with regard to close-at-hand Extensive outdoor terrace by the Barbican Lake may aid in re-opening. Some will definitely be restaurants – even in this time of the COVID-19 but no heating! re-opening in December assuming lockdown coronavirus. However the two main Barbican ends, including The Botanist and Yauatcha City Centre restaurants, Osteria and Bonfire, are yet
to re-open dependent as they are on Cabotte - High end French restaurant on performances at the Barbican’s theatre and Gresham Street to the south of the Barbican Concert Hall performances for much of their specialising in fine dining and Burgundy wines. custom. The listing below is not necessarily a comprehensive one, and it is possible some may not re-open as planned when lockdown ends, so you do need to check out in advance if your favourite restaurant has indeed re-opened and is taking bookings. Also, before venturing out to any of the restaurants mentioned below, do please check that they do have the room to accommodate you given that increased table Cafe du Marché – Enormously atmospheric spacings as per coronavirusn control advice will Barbie Green – Australian- themed coffee French restaurant tucked away in a tiny mews almost certainly mean that table availability will venue and casual dining located in the gardens off Charterhouse Square adjacent to the have been severely reduced. Most will be of London Wall Place adjacent to Salters Hall and Malmaison hotel. insisting on advance bookings anyway. opposite Andrewes House. Has popular outdoor
You can find reviews for many of these area although may be a little bracing in cold Club Gascon – Pascal Aussignac’s Michelin undertaken at more normal times, on our weather. Due to re-open from December 2nd as starred restaurant in West Smithfield and its www.barbicanlife.com website. All the are other Daisy Green group restaurants companion site, Le Bar, next door, are both restaurants noted below are only a short walk including Beany Green in Broadgate by planning to re-open when lockdown ends in from the Barbican. Many of them now offer take- Liverpool Street Station.
30 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 RESTAURANT.qxp_proof 24/11/2020 09:19 Page 4
December. Howeverthe other local group The Ned Hotel restaurants - The Ned Hotel with Vinoteca – At Smithfield end of St, John Street. restaurant, Comptoir Gascon on Charterhouse entrances on Poultry – opposite the Coq Plans to re-open immediately lockdown ends. Street, remains closed for the time being. Some d’Argent - and on King William Street, opposite Also specialises in wine sales Meanwhile it is of the latter’s signature dishes and a take-away the Bank of England, has eight restaurants, most open for take away wines, ready meals & DIY
service is available at Le Bar. of which are planning to re-open in December. steak kits!
See the hotel’s website – www.thened.com for Coq d’Argent - restaurant atop No.1 Poultry and details Wood Street Bar and Restaurant - under west opposite the Mansion House at Bank. Great food end of Andrewes House, so effectively within the and ambience. This has extensive outdoor areas St. John - Fergus Henderson’s ‘nose-to-tail’ Barbican complex. Lakeside views from the which may aid it in accommodating diners amid eating Michelin starred restaurant at the restaurant. the coronavirus restrictions. Smithfield end of St. John Street. Frequently appears in listings of the UK’s top restaurants, Cote Barbican – Excellent value French style MEAL bistro on the corner of Whitecross Street and Smiths of Smithfield at 67-77 Charterhouse Beech Street diagonally opposite the Jugged Street had opened up all four of its bar and DELIVERY Hare and under the east end of Ben Jonson restaurant levels prior to the November House adjacent to Barbican Cinemas 1 and 2. lockdown and is set to open them up again in Cote also offers a meal delivery service December assuming lockdown ends on n addition to the delivery services like nationwide – see below under Meal Delivery. December 2nd as planned Deliveroo and Just Eat which offer meal Ideliveries from an ever-expanding slate of Enoteca Rabezzana - Wine bar serving pizzas South Place Chop House - Ground floor of the local restaurants there are also some restaurants and other Italian dishes on Long Lane. More than South Place Hotel–same building as Angler or delivery services which handle their own just a wine bar, it has an extensive wine list of above. Another near-at-hand restaurant with a deliveries. These delivery services are operating 100+ wines including some of Italy’s finest as good reputation. through the lockdown which gives you the well as popular classics like Prosecco, Chianti and option of restaurant-prepared food in your Nero d’Avola. Food deliveries apartment. available by Deliveroo. Aprés Food - Healthy and Fare - on Old Street (no.11) - Has nutritional food specialists. Offers developed an outdoor covered and take-away and delivery service heated area under a marquee. locally. Need to select a date and Serves pizza, pasta, tap cocktails, time in the calendar that suits best natural wine and ethical coffee. and order from menu. (see restaurant listing above for further Gaucho Smithfield - Steakhouse details apresfood.slerp.com/order ) specialising in Argentinian beef and wines now under the same Côte at Home- Food as served at management as M restaurants. On the Côte Brasserie restaurants Charterhouse Street opposite delivered nationwide. Select from Smithfield Market. Gaucho has starters, mains, desserts, sides, set other branches within easy reach of meals and also has separate the Barbican including one in the boucherie, boulangerie, Broadgate complex. fromagerie, pantry and cellar Stem and Glory - Crowd funded vegan (wine, beer or cider selections). Half Cup - Good sized space new coffee bar and restaurant in Barts Square. First venue for the Needs at least 48 hours from booking to delivery. restaurant in Barts Square. The large space aids brand following the great success of its original Minimum order £40. www.coteathome.co.uk social distancing. Some outside tables. venue. Some outside tables. Specialises in coffee and breakfast/brunch Short Eats - Barbican-based meal delivery only Vecchio Parioli - Corner of Aldersgate Street and specialising in Sri Lankan and Trinidadian cuisine. Hawksmoor Guildhall - Local high quality Carthusian Street. Family Italian restaurant Offers weekly new menu options. steakhouse on Basinghall Street near the popular with Barbican residents. www.shorteatslondon.com Guildhall. The Hawksmoor restaurants have an excellent reputation among specialist steakhouses.
The Ivy City Garden - Offshoot of the Ivy’s West End establishment. Located in Dashwood House off Old Broad Street near Liverpool Street station. Received excellent review in March issue of Barbican Life this year.
The Jugged Hare – specialises in game dishes among others on the corner of Chiswell Street and Silk Street, almost opposite Cromwell Tower and Ben Jonson House. Attached to the Montcalm City hotel. One of the nearest restaurants to parts of the Barbican
Luca – classy Italian restaurant on St.John Street under same management as the Michelin starred Clove Club, is scheduled to re-open in December if and when lockdown ends. Vecchio Parioli - Photo by Alexander Amin
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 31 HSC XMAS 2020.qxp_Layout 1 13/11/2020 10:54 Page 1
Living in the City
Cromwell Tower, Barbican EC2 £1,820,000 Shepherdess Walk N1 £2,350,000 Type 2B | Superb views shown from 3 bedroom tower apartment | 34th floor Corner warehouse conversion apartment | 3 beds, 2 baths | 2,700sq ft / 255 m2 City Sales 020 7250 1012 epc exempt Shoreditch Sales 020 7549 6969 epc B
Crawford Building E1 £1,550,000 Seddon House, Barbican EC2 £1,750,000 Sub-penthouse apartment | 3 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms Type 35 duplex penthouse apartment | 4 bedrooms | 2 bathrooms Aldgate Sales 020 7680 1888 epc B City Sales 020 7250 1012 epc exempt
hurford-salvi-carr.co.uk SALES LETTINGS HSC XMAS 2020.qxp_Layout 1 13/11/2020 10:54 Page 2
Wiverton Tower E1 £1,800 pw Breton HHouse, Barbican EC2 £325 pw 3 bed penthouse duplex | Luxurious roof terrraace | Panorraamic views of London Large studio | Balcony | 438 sq ft / 40 m2 | Furnished Aldgate Lettings 020 7680 1888 epc B City Lettiings 020 7490 1122 epc E
Lambs Passage, City EC1 £425 pw Decorum Apartments, Wenlock Road EC1 £365 pw Sunny apartment | 1 bedroom | TTeerrraace | Porterreed building | 476 sq ft / 44 m2 Bright apartment | 1 bedroom | 4th floor | Private balcony | Furnished City Lettings 020 7490 1122 epc B Shoreditch Lettings 020 7549 6969 epc B
D SAL R VI O C F A R R U CITY R H LIVING E S 6 T 9 A 9 B 1 L I S H E D NEW HOMES COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT SHORT EATS-LOCKDOWN.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 12:15 Page 1
and Square were Putting your belly on Lockdown all created during periods of Barbican resident and owner of Short Eats economic gives her bitesize take on lockdown, life and food. recession. I might have quoted here’s a lot going on right aspect that was the key missing Churchill earlier, now, isn’t there? This ingredient. but Mr Willy Covid/lockdown/pandemic Food is at the very centre of who I am; Wonka was of a period has set into motion a it’s at the centre of my business, and it’s similar mind when Melissa Bakth owner of whole cacophony of chaos; the centre of my home. Going to visit our he said, “Wanna Short Eats destructionT of global trade, record- parents and sitting for hours on end at the change the world? breaking moves in stock markets, and the dinner table is the norm. So for now, we There’s nothing to it!” Well, actually there doom-and-gloom of recession. Yet, whilst had to forget running our Supper Clubs, is a lot to it, but perhaps what I’m getting those issues affect us all in a very real way, we had to forget seeing our family, and we at is that now is the time for pure the majority of us are left feeling had to start relying on imagination. the ripples of Covid-19 in our technology to digitally bind So, that's just what we did. We simpler, everyday rituals. For the fabric of our otherwise pondered, planned and plunged. Yes, our some of us, that means having to organic lives back together food business Short Eats sadly had to go home after forgetting to bring again. Now, don’t get me postpone its Supper Clubs, events and a facemask to the shops (because wrong, I love technology- I Meal Kits, but from a deep need to feed now we have to carry those little think FaceTime, Zoom and and (turns out an addiction to) socialise Darth Vader costumes around Skype saved us all during the around food, we began to think outside of with us wherever we go!). For lockdown- but for all of the the box…by putting our food ‘in’ the box. others, it means being swab- ‘dinner Zooms’ and ‘digital- In April we launched our Ready Meals. tested every other week; even cook-a-long’ sessions we did, With all of the financial, physical and though we think its just a winter it came nowhere close to the emotional anguish we were all going cold, it might just be the dreaded c-19 and real experience. There are just some through, it feels like we were all searching we will be shunned like a leper from work things that aren’t that easy to simulate; for a taste of comfort. How wonderful it or school unless we’ve been tested. Social spending time to prep and cook a meal, was to learn that we weren't alone in our outcasts. Yes, Covid has affected us all, which will later be enjoyed by friends, or journey. Somehow with every chop of a but most poignant for me (and indeed all being able to pop in to see a neighbour vegetable and stir of a pot, it made me feel of you avid eaters out there), is the social and gossip over a hot cup of tea. I was connected and part of a bigger picture. I aspect, which has affected the world of even surprised by those little joys that can only say a massive thank you to our food forever. were all of a sudden off limits- being able loyal customers (and now, extended During the first lockdown, we were all to grab a bite to eat when work had me family). Socially distanced picnics? We've sanctioned to our homes. As restrictions got you sorted. Monday night dinner? started to ease- or we wandered outside Just let us know how hungry you are! for a top-up of toilet roll and other Come 2021 we plan to introduce some essentials, it was surreal to see the once very exciting items to our offering- such busied streets of London cleared of all life. as microwavable ready meals, private 'rule No cars, people, shops, or even benches of 6' Supper Clubs and live cooking around the Barbican. In the beginning, I Masterclasses. I'm sitting here with a grin could not fathom how we could function on my face, as I genuinely cannot wait! in a sustainable way for the length of time As I write this last section, we are the government was suggesting. Surely preparing for another one-month we would all go mad? As time went on, I lockdown, and by the time this article is embraced my bohemian side- started printed and circulated we will be home projects, working out (or least too overloaded to sort out lunch or preparing for Christmas and…who watched my little one exercise to Joe spontaneously able to decide what to eat knows. This year has been educational, to Wicks), and even further embraced my for dinner rather than having to plan say the least. We are all living through a love for cooking by experimenting with every meal a week or two in advance- I historical moment. The big question we’re new flavours and dishes. Truth be told, I mean, where’s the adventure in that? But all asking is “will we survive this?” and might have always been a closet hermit then it seemed we turned a corner, and after almost a year of this foodie-coaster, I because I grew to love lockdown life. My the world stopped looking at what ‘used to can finally say, “YES!” We will prevail. pregnant-self loved more time with my be’ and started focusing on ‘what could There’s nothing that’s too bad to deal with family, and as I grew in size, my husband be’. I’ll never forget this quote by Sir after a cup of tea and crunch of a Bhaji. was always home to forklift me up (true Winston Churchill “Success is not final, As a little Christmas gift, Short Eats story). But here’s the thing, by week 5, I failure is not fatal: it is the courage to would like to offer 20% off to all found my appetite waning. True, there continue that counts”. It’s so true- nothing customers! Just use voucher were decidedly fewer choices of what to lasts forever and we must endeavour to FATHERSHORTEATS at the checkout. cook due to ingredients being limited, too adapt. In fact, looking into it, some of the www.shorteatslondon.com far to get to, or just plain out of stock, but most successful companies have been (valid for the whole month of December). I soon realised that it was the social born out of necessity. Airbnb, Groupon,
34 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 OPEN AS USUAL SMITHFIELD MEAT MARKET Europe’s largest meat market right on your doorstep
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SMTA 225 Central Markets, EC1A 9LH tel: 020 7248 3151 email: [email protected] www.smithfieldmarket.com OENOPHILIA.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:53 Page 2
OENOPHILIA Discovering the Wines of Calabria (Part 2) by Gordon Stuteley CEO, GS Wines n part 1 of my article on Calabria wines Sicily and Calabria) and the oak-aged green citrus fruit with a flavour somewhere (Summer 2020 edition) I covered our version ('Fra Antonio' - 15% abv) was even between lime and grapefruit (the Ivisit to Zagarella winery on the outskirts better (richer and fuller)! flavouring used in Earl Grey tea) and it is of Reggio town, the region capital. In part grown ONLY in Calabria! Bergamot is often 2, I will look at Calabrian wineries located used to make a local marmalade, a beyond Reggio to get a better overview of combination of fresh oranges and oil of what makes the wine of this region bergamot, which is quite distinctive. distinctive. Another delight is Calabrian sopressata, a delicious sausage, cured in salt and olive oil and sold in a vacuum pack, which will keep for 6 months (I could have made a Azienda Nesci wine tasting meal out of this on its own!). Amazingly, we did find time to try out some delicious Vi Nesci's attention to International grape gelato in Reggio at Gelateria Cesare who varieties is demonstrated by their excellent won 'Best Gelateria in Italy 2016' - and it 'Chapeaux' (Merlot) and 'Esperanto' was pretty good! (Cabernet Sauvignon blend) wines. A good example of a wine made from a Above: Reggio promenade at night Another outstanding winery is Feudo local regional grape is the lovely passito Gagliardi, located about 70 miles north (dessert wine) called 'Greco di Bianco' Our survey, based upon the winemakers east of Reggio, near the Ionian coast. A made by Cantine Ielasi Dr Ferdinando, that we met, suggests that quality small family run winery, who also produce from dried Greco Bianco grapes - the only Ma Calabrian winemakers not only value their olive oil and orange marmalade, they wine that this winery makes. Greco Bianco Pan local grape varieties, but also adopt make a rich, full bodied red wine (14.5% (not to be confused with the Greco grape International grapes which they abv) named 'Castrum Vetus' (Old Fort). from Campania) is an ancient grape variety sometimes use to create interesting blends This is an intriguing blend of four grapes - and the wine possibly dates back over with local varieties, with some wineries Nero d'Avola (Sicilian/Calabrian grape), 2,000 years - believed to be a wine pushing the boundaries, creating entirely Greco Nero and Magliocco (both recommended by Pliny in Roman times! new grape varieties. Calabrian) and Cabernet sauvignon This one was subtle, rich, caramelly and The winery run by the Nesci family is (International) with ripe berry and lovely sweet - but not at all sugary. located on the south coast in an area dried fruit flavours. called Palizzi. Alberta Nesci presented 7 wines, each having a label featuring a cartoon character and with rather idiosyncratic names e.g. 'Chapeaux', 'Esperanto', 'Meet'! The cartoons were taken from old cards that they had found in the family attic! Alberta's father, Francesco Saverio a professor of Above: Award winning gelato in Reggio Agricultural Economics created a new (as Above: Feudi Gagliardi wine tasting Below: Delicious sopressata cured sausage yet unnamed) grape variety - a cross Below: lelasi wine tasting between Pecorello and Mantonico (both Calabrian grapes), which they have used to make an unusual, flavourful white wine, named 'Olimpia'. One of our favourites was a red wine named 'Meet' (14.5% abv) - a robust, smooth, fruity steel-aged blend of Nocera and Nerello (grapes common to
Whilst in Calabria, one cannot miss the enticing abundance of wonderful produce, We were fortunate to visit the south made into delicious local dishes. There are coast to the area known as 'Greek Calabria', several highlight food items which we where a few older inhabitants still speak an now associate with Calabria. We have the ancient Greek dialect (the southern part of delicious Tropea red onion, which can be Italy was settled by Greeks over 2,500 made into jam and goes well with years' ago and they called it Enotria, Azienda Nesci wines range cheeses. We discovered bergamot, a large meaning 'land of wine'). This is a very
36 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 OENOPHILIA.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:53 Page 3
View from the Altomonte Winery` than 10 of these feature in Fodor's 2017 article '24 Stunning Medieval Mountaintop Villages in Italy', which gives pride of place to Altomonte, a beautiful village with Go wonderful views. The last port of call on our wine itinerary was Casa Vinicola Crisera's 'Cantina' (tasting room) in Catona, a few miles north of Reggio. Crisera is quite a big and diverse Grape harvest at Altomonte winery Wine tasting at Crisera tasting room varied part of Calabria: hilly with large arid instruments, old photos of the family and areas, forests, small vineyards offering vineyards. The average standard of their some greenery and, never far away the wines proved to be very good, and very deep blue of the Ionian Sea. It has a good value for money! Our pick of the breathtaking rugged beauty. bunch was Costa Viola Rosso Armacia We stopped at a winery on the top of a 2018 IGP 13.5% Red, a succulent blend of coastal mountain, appropriately named Prunesta, Gaglioppo (Calabrian), Nerello Azienda Altomonte! The harvest was in full Crisera winery museum and cellar (Sicilian) and Malvasia Nera (grown all over swing with basket after basket of grapes Italy) grapes. being brought to the destemming company dating back to 1800, with As we have seen, Calabrian winemakers machine. They make a food-friendly red vineyards in different wine regions of have retained many of their local varieties wine, based on grapes more associated Calabria. However, many of their wines are in wine production (e.g. Gaglioppo), make with Sicily (Nerello). Calabria is home to hand-harvested, artisan-made wines of extensive use of Sicilian/Calabrese grapes several medieval hilltop villages: no less high quality. One outstanding wine was (e.g. Nerello), make wines entirely of 'Armacia' Rosso from International grapes varieties the Costa Viola, a (e.g Cabernet) and also make blends using beautiful area where all 3 types. The result is a fascinating the vine terraces are variety of styles, aromas, flavours, many of vertiginous, which are not replicated anywhere else. cascading down to One of the joys of finding new wines is the sea, which turns a being able to try them out on fellow wine- brilliant violet in the lovers. We tasted some of our finds and sunset: they call their Nesci 'Meet' received a lot of praise, with grape-pickers comments such as "delicious, velvet, 'heroes', as it is smooth, rich" and "could drink a bottle of dangerous work! this easily!" The Cantina was The trip to Calabria proved to be not packed with only productive, but most enjoyable! GS interesting artifacts: Wines now stock wines from 7 wineries in ancient winemaking Calabria!
Calabria wine tasting event in London November 2019
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 37 HEALTH AND CITY.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 15:18 Page 1
Health in the City Edited by Stephanie Ross
@STEPHANIEFIFTYFIT Photo: Wesley Petrie @perfitwes
It’s the most efficient breathing method and should be done, if possible, at all times including sleep and exercising - takes Stephanie Ross looks at the importance of could inhibit the replication of coronaviruses. It practice, especially if asthmatic. breathing through the nose (as opposed to also aids oxygen absorption by dilating the Patrick McKeown is an expert in nose the mouth) to reduce COVID spread and how airways and blood vessels and raising surfactant breathing. He treats patients with chronic lung our health collaborators continue treating production (increases elasticity of lungs). diseases like asthma and COPD as well as their clients during the COVID pandemic. Air taken in is warmed and humidified. conditions like anxiety and panic attacks. In Nose breathing - light, slow and deep - Exhaling via the nose reduces heat loss and March 2020 he posted an interesting Youtube harnesses the antiviral properties of nitric water loss (up to 42%). The airways don’t cool, presentation entitled Coronavirus Free oxide in our nasal cavities and paranasal dry out, constrict. Air is kept in the lungs for Breathing Exercises. These exercises measure sinuses. Research during the SARS corona virus longer allowing more oxygen to enter the and improve respiratory function and help epidemic in 2003/4 showed that nitric oxide blood stream. control breathing when with others where people may be infected. Dentistry100 64-65 Long Lane, London. EC1A 9EJ Barbican Life health collaborators talk to 020 7638 7100 Stephanie about working during the COVID [email protected] pandemic. www.dentistry100.co.uk Barbican Physio remains open for virtual, face to face and home visit appointments. Physiotherapist Sue Nourse explains. “We Wishing our local community a Merry Christmas know that everyone is stiffer, weaker and less fit. & Happy New Year! We have seen the effects of efforts to control COVID on the physical and mental wellbeing of patients who manage to see us. We’re open and providing all usual services in our safe We know you have pain, that your bodies have changed, that you have not been able to environment, so book your dental check up and bounce back from your injuries, that your more hygiene appointment today! long-term conditions have deteriorated and you worry that this will be permanent. General Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry It needn’t be so. If you want to see us but are - Hygiene & preventative care - Teeth whitening fearful, call us to discuss. We screen all our - Dental check ups - Braces & teeth straightening patients and have covid safe measures. If you - Children & young patients - Smile design - Nervous patients and sedation - Anti-wrinkle treatments are higher risk, we can add extra measures, or - Dental implants - Veneers and bondings come to you. We have a 1-to-1 gym and Pilates studio, which can be used for rehab of injuries even during lockdown. We have been alarmed at the speed and extent of deterioration in physical and mental wellbeing of healthy individuals. We are seeing many complex spinal conditions from sitting in the same position all day, and not being able to participate in the habitual and recreational
38 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 HEALTH AND CITY.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 15:18 Page 2
exercise that keeps you fit and well. But we can decades. Caro’s wealth of experience and Smithson) in our window for the rest of the help. Call or email us to find out more.” knowledge keeps the practice going – patients’ year. June has discovered the joy and optimistic Barbican Physio, 1 The postern, Wood Street, needs come first.” side of the Brutalist London landmark: The EC2Y 8BJ Tel: 0207 606 6530 Charterhouse Physiotherapy, Pilates & Barbican; an iconic piece of the London urban Email: [email protected] Lymphoedema Clinic, Barbican clinic 64/65 architecture. Her installation has recently been Website: www.barbicanphysio.co.uk Long Lane, EC1A 9EJ Tel: 020 7606 2435 Email featured in the Creative Boom Magazine and [email protected] Website: Involved Magazine, and the full press release Charterhouse Physio remains open. Practice www.charterhousephysio.co.uk can be found here on our News page: Manager Suzanne Smith explains. ”The core http://www.cultvision.com/news/ principles of our practice remain the same, Cult Vision Optician remains open. Marianne Read more about the ‘Barbican Geometrics’ even through this challenging time. We strive Nicolaou explains: Dear Customers! Opticians prints here: https://www.cultvision.com/ to help our patients with their physiotherapy are considered an essential service. barbican-geometrics/ and manual lymphatic drainage treatments, as Please book your eye test appointment normal, but with some adjustments in place. It online at https://www.cultvision.com/book-eye- Dentist Saagar Patel, Dentistry 100 says “We has been a learning experience, but now works test/ are lucky to be able to carry on seeing our smoothly. This is down to a collective team Or contact us in advance if you need to visit patients this winter and don’t expect to be spirit. Both new and old patients have been us for any other reason email: asked to close again in the future. understanding, wearing the necessary masks [email protected] or phone: 0207 251 1268. Like other businesses and dental practices and gloves when attending appointments, we have had to make some small changes to though they miss the social interaction of the Please note: our daily procedures to ensure we keep our clinic waiting room (patients are required to n We have implemented 60 minute rather patients and staff safe. These include wearing arrive on time and leave once treatment has than 30 minute appointment times additional PPE, minimising contact points, finished). This is not forever and the health of n Please do not enter the store if you have ensuring social distancing in the practice and all is paramount. We have found that our long- Coronavirus symptoms ensuring good ventilation in the surgery rooms. standing patients have been managing well, n We have physical distancing measures in There are additional safety measures when maintaining their exercise regimes at home and place any dental treatment is required; these we have seen an uptake in new patients, which n We have infection control and protective procedures can produce aerosols, so higher is positive. Obviously, let’s not downplay the measures in place grade PPE and masks (FFP3) are necessary. huge knock to our patient numbers and the n We are limiting store traffic by having a Additional time between appointments is also cancellations which occur frequently once a policy of one person or household at a time needed to allow any aerosols to settle. lockdown is announced, but we remain very n Please wear a face covering to your This means that we can’t see as many optimistic. Caro Rugman’s (Practice Principal) appointment patients as usual so there may be a longer wait company, Charterhouse Physiotherapy Pilates & We will feature our latest installation by for appointments. This is also why most Lymphoedema Clinic, has cared for patients for Japanese Artist MAMIMU (aka June Mineyama- hygienists are using hand instruments for now
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BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 39 HEALTH AND CITY.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 15:18 Page 3
when scaling, although we are able to polish 2020 has been an out-of-the-ordinary year. teeth as usual. Physical and mental challenges have arisen Dental practices are still happy to see from constant uncertainty and change, patients and they are one of the cleanest prolonged home working, pain or injuries from Barbican locality for seventeen years, knows the environments to visit, so book your routine sudden alterations in activity and exercise City well as he previously worked in banking. check-up and hygiene appointments to keep routines, as well as being unable to participate His sports background is in martial arts (mainly your smile healthy this winter!” in familiar social activities and goal Shaolin Kung Fu). Clients come from many Dentistry 100, 64-65 Long Lane, EC1A 9EJ Tel: achievements. The practice has been walks of life, with all sorts of problems that 0207 638 7100 Email: [email protected] supporting people to improve their health and hinder movement, functionality and sports Website: www.dentistry100.co.uk wellbeing, working both on the physical performance. ailments (in which they specialise) while also His uplifting character, massage expertise Pure Sports Medicine, 12 Finsbury Sq EC2A checking in with some honest chat about how and thorough knowledge of 1AS. The close-knit team at the Moorgate people are feeling. anatomy/physiology, make appointments with practice consists of various disciplines working In addition to offering appointments (either him a joy. Further testament to this is the together to provide a comprehensive sports in clinic or virtually), they have a wealth of distance some of his home-working City clients medicine service. Consultants, physiotherapists, information available for anyone to access have been prepared to cover before second massage therapist, strength & conditioning online www.puresportsmed.com including free lockdown to continue treatments with him. coach, osteopath, podiatrist and admin team all webinars run by their specialist clinicians and Please see his website for further information strive to look after everyone who walks through weekly Q&A sessions on Instagram on treatments, prices, appointments and the doors. At the time of going to print they had @puresportsmed. lockdown information: www.sanjchott.com remained open during second lockdown and aim Ground floor, Templeton House, 33-34 Chiswell to continue through future periods of restrictions Sanj Chott, Remedial, Deep Tissue and Street, EC1Y 4SF Telephone: 07957 781 281 (unless government guidelines change). Sports Massage Therapist, based in the Email: [email protected] FITNESS, HEALTH AND BEAUTYListings Sanj Chott Remedial, Deep Tissue & Sports Massage Therapist Barbican-based therapist for 17 years Anti-COVID government-advised procedures in place
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Ground Floor, Templeton House, 33-34 Chiswell Street, London EC1Y 4SF Telephone: 07957 781 281 Email: [email protected]
40 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas2020 INSIGHT.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 12:22 Page 1
INSIGHTExhibition Preview Janet Wells’ takes us online for her quarterly review of the Arts, Gallery and Museum scene s I get this together for the Editor’s deadline, we are going once more into Lockdown: However, the galleries may well be about to re – open by the time you receive this Winter Edition of the AMagazine – who knows! Of course, the same precautions will, most certainly, apply and we will only be able to buy timed tickets; there is little that can be spontaneous in this Covid 19 world. This morning members of the Summer Exhibition Committee that were and still are however, I found an announcement of a programme of large scale shielding and committee members that - because they live abroad - projected public art to take place near Tottenham Court Road tube couldn’t be physically present in the studios. It appears that it was station next year. Keep an eye open for news on that. possible for them to do their hang via Zoom!! Given the restrictions of distancing, it was also bound to look a little different this year: The big piece that they commission to stand out in the Annenberg Courtyard is absent – however this years’ proposed work will be in place in 2021. The viewing begins from Gallery 1 - instead of the Wohl Central Hall. There is a lightness to the galleries; not just because all the walls this year are painted white; it comes from the instruction to provide space for flow and distancing; this year’s show doesn’t have that overflowing hallmark of a RA Summer Exhibition. As expected there are a good number of works that focus on identity and climate change: In Gallery 1 and 2, they have played tribute to the late Nigerian poet, curator and educator, Okwui Enwezor: A photographic assemblage of 32 black and white Ilford classic gelatin prints: Lessons of the Hour, London 1983 – Who Killed Colin Roach? Isaac Julien CBE RA: Blend in – Stand Out; Njideka Akunjili Crosby as well as Chris Ofilli’s standout triptych Cha Cha Cha. As usual dotted around, there are the big names: Gillian Wearing CBE RA: with Lockdown: a delicate watercolour of a woman in a yellow frock, The Royal Academy Summer (Winter) holding a full mask in her hand; Greyson Perry CBE RA: with his The Exhibition 2020 American Dream – etching; An older Anthony Green RA; is looking at his I had supposed it that is wasn’t going happen this year: Exhibits usually bride, Mary and Tracy Emin RA is here and Cornelia Parker OBE RA have to be submitted around March and this year we were about to go with Glass and its Shadows; then there is the avant guard film maker, John into Lockdown; but here it is and how welcome it is too! Smith, who has made a video on the recommended washing hands There is a new President of the Royal Academy: She is abstract artist, routine: The slowed down, rendition of the National Anthem follows you Rebecca Salter – the first female President of the Royal Academy. This into the next gallery. year’s exhibition co-ordinators are the identical twin artists, Jane and However, what is so very special about the RA Summer Exhibition is Louise Wilson – who always work as a collaborative duo. Their main that among all the famous, there is the work of those lesser known contribution in show, is a giant screen of moving LED lights entitled: I’d (possibly first time successful) artists; and as I wandered through, it was Walk With You But Not With Her. This is found right at the end of the to many of these that I found myself instinctively drawn. exhibition in the Wohl Central Hall. The Exhibition is due to close on the 3rd January. I have been reading that in order to pull off this exhibition during this Entry price £35.00 Free to Friends. This exhibition raises funds for extraordinary time, there have been a few problems: There were students to get free education at the RA schools 2Jan 2019
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 41 INSIGHT.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 12:22 Page 2
Be n Looking ahead at the RA: The Foundling Museum David Hockney: Ma Normandie Honest Dick Leveridge: Performer, Composer and Coffee Shop Owner 27th March – 22nd August 2021 26th September – 28th March 2021 n October 2018, David Hockney was staying in Honfleur for a few days: Exhibitions and Display: Discover the life and works of Richard From there, he went to Bayeux to see the tapestry of Queen Mathilde Leveridge, a leading singer on the 18th – century London Stage in this Iagain. He was fascinated by work which reminded him of the ancient Handel Gallery display Chinese scrolls. Making the passage of time feel in painting, has always been one of his major concerns - David Hockney, it appears, is a keen reader of Tate Britain Marcel Proust. The idea germinated in him to renew with the Norman Turner’s Modern World landscape as he did in his native Yorkshire ten years earlier: to paint the 28th October – 7th March 2021 arrival of spring and its unfolding – like a story. Taken from Galerie-lelong Of course, Turner lived and worked at the peak of the industrial Paris - where it has been showing. revolution; when machines replaced manpower and when political and social reforms transformed society. This exhibition - which begins in the Barbican Art Gallery 1790’s – sets out to show how he transformed the way he painted to Michael Clarke: Cosmic Dancer. Until the 23 May 2021 better capture this new world. The Curve: A Countervailing Theory: Toyin Ojih Odutola Currently booking until the 31st December 2020 Until 24th January 2021 Ticket: £22.00 Free with ticket for members
Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art Italian Threads: MITA Textile Design 1926 – 1976 30th September – 17th January 2021
Guildhall Art Gallery Noel Coward: Art & Style. 20th November 2020 - 16 May 2021 This is an exhibition that brings together never-before-seen materials from the Coward Archive. Find out more on city of London.gov.uk/noelcoward
The Freud Museum is open 20 Maresfield Gardens, London NW3 5SX They have made a few changes designed for our safety and the safety of their staff. Open Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 10.30 – 17.00 Adults £14; Concessions £12.00; Young Persons £9.00 children under 12 Turner's Modern World : free. Book in advance online only. The Burning of the Houses of Parliament c1834 -5
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42 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 THEATRE PREVIEWS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 12:50 Page 1 Theatre Previews Gary Donaldson looks with optimism to end the second lockdown! s we head out of lockdown for a second time A(assuming the restrictions were relaxed on December 2), I am very happy to have some news about theatre re-emerging thanks to the Barbican Centre. As always, Christmas brings a special show made just for under-fives and their families, the only difference this year being that the show is available to watch online instead of in-person. Those of you who have been working from home or watching material online will already be familiar with video platform Zoom, which is the platform adults alike, “We Cover the Universe” takes Akin’s We Cover the Universe © Illustration hosting this show. For those of you who haven’t families on a journey together, wherever they by Rachel Lincoln experienced it, the platform is simplicity itself, are, transforming items and spaces before their praised novel “Hinterland”, “Flight” mixes timely so please don’t worry about not being eyes. A good reminder that there is still much to themes with engrossing images to honour the technical- it’s a breeze! enjoy until theatres fully reopen and we can see resilience of refugee children adrift in From 10 to 20 December, Akin company will shows together again. dangerous lands. present this year’s youngsters’ treat, entitled If it’s theatre in a real theatre you’re after, get With the show taking place at the Bridge “We Cover the Universe”. ready for a show described as “Miraculous” by Theatre, you’ll be seated individually and given It’s an interactive, sensory and wondrous the Sunday Times and “Extraordinary” by the headphones for this intimate experience staged online show for under-fives, their parents/carers Observer. From December 10 to January 16, the by Candice Edmunds and Jamie Harrison (magic and families, where poetry, drawing and gentle Barbican has partnered with the Bridge Theatre and illusions designer for “Harry Potter and the play combine to broaden your horizons. to present innovative company Vox Motus’s Cursed Child”). As detailed model sets and We first meet Dot when she’s feeling small. intriguing show, “Flight” at the Bridge Theatre. figures revolve to form vivid and gripping She’s stuck in a grey room until, one day, she From your individual private booth you’ll be scenes, accompanied by all-enveloping sound starts to draw and dream. Plucking up the drawn in close to this tale of orphaned brothers and narration, the effect is of a 3-D graphic courage to venture out, she encounters a and their desperate odyssey across Europe, the novel brought to life. One not to miss, and a glorious new world of colour. And where she action unfolding in an exquisite world of wonderful reminder of the power of theatre. learns there’s more to life than she ever miniatures moving before your eyes. Although at present there are no further imagined possible. With their small inheritance stitched into shows confirmed for the Barbican’s 2021 Two friendly performers will guide you their clothes, young Aryan and Kabir embark on schedule, I hope to have much more positive through simple movement and inventive art- an epic journey by foot from Kabul to London. news for you in the next Barbican Life. Until making activities on Zoom, showing you how to Braving bustling train stations, hazardous sea then, please keep well, stay safe – and have a explore basic household objects for touch and crossings and menacing strangers, their heart- very Happy Christmas and New Year! sound. With magical music, vibrant visuals and wrenching story speaks of terror, hope and lovely language that appeals to children and survival. Based on Caroline Brothers’ highly- Vox Motus’s Flight © Drew Farrell
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 43 DECOR AND DESIGN.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 13:19 Page 1
Décor and Design Michele Haynes THE NEW NORMAL IS WORKING, LIVING AND STAYING AT HOME! ith the advent of repeated lockdowns, there are inevitably going work materials invading all areas of your home. A decorative screen such to be extra pressures on us all as we attempt to juggle living and as this one from British Designer Tom Raffield could add an interesting Wworking from home for extended periods of time. So I thought element while separating your work space. now may be the perfect moment to share a few ideas on making the most of our homes. Create A New Office Area If there is plenty of space then a free standing desk could be the answer. Zoning Boss the retailer sells an electronic desk that can be positioned at three Why not analyse your apartment and see if it flows smoothly and works heights ranging from sitting to standing, great for maintaining posture hard for all your lifestyle needs. and keeping one moving a little more. Here an apartment has been defined through a mix of freestanding Alternatively if space is tight, why not find an under-utilised area and glass cabinets and bespoke fitted cabinets to maximise storage, flow well have something bespoke made to maximise the space. and look fabulous. HI’s photos
HI’s photos
For example if you have an empty corridor in a type 21 property, this can be turned into a warm and inviting study area, complete with undermounted drawers and overhead shelving and cupboards, to utilise every inch of the space.
The Benefits Of Bespoke Furniture Takes into account unusual nooks and crannies, maximises storage, looks sleeker and can be tailored perfectly to suit your style and needs, so why not have something made uniquely for you.
Turn Empty Spaces Into Useful Spaces A beautiful bespoke oak bookcase with deep drawers and luscious green leather handles turned this empty hole in the wall into a warm and stylish bookcase for a busy author who needed a multifunctional study and lounge. It maximises space, whilst adding warmth and character to a predominantly white room. Keep Workspaces Contained & Hidden Try to keep areas not intended for work separate and contained to avoid HI’s photos
Tom Raffield
44 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 DECOR AND DESIGN.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 13:20 Page 2
Create A Stylish & Relaxing Bedroom moving into a type 21 apartment. To create the perfect environment and Now more than ever, it’s important that we all have some spaces that are ensure a good night’s sleep, a wall complete with a pocket door was built luxurious and relaxing havens, where we can completely unwind. along with bespoke bunk beds, ensuring everyone has their privacy when required. HI’s photos Lastly Multi-Functional Furniture Consider extending dining tables like this oak one below, which can expand from a 4 seater into a 6/8 seater via an extra leaf. Choose from those with integral leaves which are the most space efficient or hide the extra leaf in the cupboard when not being used. HI’s photos
E
So why not treat yourself to some new colourful cushions or faux throws. Have a bespoke headboard made in velvet or linen like this one below framed with gold and ebony. Bring in a few scented candles, a soft light and a good book. Oh and don’t forget to bring the outside in with a few plants along with any other items that make you feel cosseted and special throughout these unusual winter months.
Sub-Divide A Room For those occasional family and friends sleepovers, a bespoke pull out If your changing lifestyle needs you to segregate an area, consider adding wardrobe bed could be just the ticket. a decorative shelving unit or even build a wall……. Other great space saving options are coffee tables that morph into Here an extra quiet and private bedroom space was needed for a family desks, coffee tables that can turn into 8 seater dining tables or consoles that can turn into dining tables. These 3 are not the cheapest options, but can be perfect if your space is incredibly tight.
Festive wishes & stay safe one and all
John Lewis Gold wreath
If you require any interior design assistance contact Michele Haynes of Haynes Interiors (Fellow resident & Barbican specialist) on 07984 884408 today.
Design only Full Design + Project Co-ordination Product sourcing Bespoke furniture Planning Applications & Asbestos removals Glass splashbacks Bespoke curtains, blinds & tracks supplied & fitted
Additional contact Info Email: [email protected] Website: www.haynesinteriors.co.uk HI’s photos Insta: #haynes.interiors
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 45 HAYNES INTERIORS SUMMER 18_Layout 1 24/05/2018 11:49 Page 1
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NewsReview
See & Experience molecular, ionized, or micro-granular suspended Kate said: ‘With so much uncertainty this year, I lthough the Designer Jewellers Group are form so one is obviously taking these in when one believe that sharing what we have learned to not running an exhibition this year, our drinks Barbican tap water, although whether cherish over these past unprecedented months has Alove of shiny things can be satiated with these do you any harm is open to question. the potential to transform and reinforce our feeling some fascinating online events being run by Conventional water filters like Brita reduce the of belonging to this incredible part of London.’ Goldsmiths’ Centre. If you miss an event, then you TDS content, but not completely. Zerowater Shirley Islam has been running ‘share and learn can now catch up and hear all the makers' stories notes that its filters are 5-stage units whereas sessions’ for unpaid carers who live in the City of online afterwards, too. conventional ones are only two-stage. London via Zoom since April. To demonstrate the filter’s efficiency, a reviewer During the early moments of the crisis, Shirley Meet the Maker: Designing with Gemstones from the Daily Mail put a whole bottle of wine taught herself how to use Zoom’s free platform to Hosted by Rachael Taylor of The Jewellery Cut through a Zerowater filter and it came out as clear connect with other unpaid carers, passing on her Tue 8 December 2020, 5PM - 6.15PM water, although how long the filter would have new-found skills to other adult carers aged Free, £3, £5 or £10 (Pay What You Can) lasted thereafter was unspecified. between 60-80 years Online (via Zoom) While Barbican, and other London, residents Shirley will use her grant to continue and Meet seven talented jewellery designer makers, might look at filtering their drinking water using develop the sessions, which have brought whose work incorporates gemstones in their full the Zerowater system, this does come at a cost. together isolated carers to provide much-needed and varied array of colours and cuts. Replacement filters are expensive – around £10- support, advice and solidarity throughout Hosted by Rachael Taylor of The Jewellery Cut, 15 each on Amazon even for multi orders. lockdown. As well as being able to share you will have the exclusive opportunity to hear Zerowater says they should last for up to around knowledge, tips and supporting each other, each maker in-conversation, exploring a range of 150 litres of filtered water – but this depends on sessions so far have also included quizzes, pieces from their current collection and the the TDS level of the water you put through it and stretching and a range of activities are planned for gemstones they work with. if my Barbican water TDS level is typical, the the future including monoprinting, origami and See exquisite handmade jewellery and listen to amount of water the filter can handle before Qigong. stories from these talented makers from the coming to the end of its life will be far lower. She said: “Unpaid carers are largely invisible in Goldsmiths Centre:, Carol Clift, Roseanna Croft, Reviewers confirm the efficacy of the filtering society, even though it could happen to anyone of Karen Philips, Aishleen Lester, Sam Salmons, system, but say the filtered water smells and us, at anytime. This summer has placed a spotlight Akansha Sethi, Ana Thompson tastes unpleasant when th filter reaches the end on us, as so many people now find themselves in See, meet and shop new designs from some of of its effective life. Zerowater claims a cirussy taste the position of looking after a friend or family the UK’s most talented jewellers. at this point, but reviewers tend to suggest that member . the smell and taste are far worse! Through running these sessions, a trust has Who is the host? So there are pros and cons of using this highly been established, meaning there is an openness Rachael Taylor launched Professional Jeweller and effective water filter system. It certainly does reduce to share what we need and feel supported WatchPro in her early career and is the co-founder the TDS content of the water very substantially, but amongst carer peers who ‘get it’. With the and editorial director of The Jewellery Cut, a the filtering process is slow. There is a tap on the jug I absence of social settings means the absence of platform to elevate and support contemporary received which means filtered water can be drawn hugs, this is the closest we can get to feel more jewellery in the UK. off while water is still running through the filter like us, rather than the label of a carer.” She is also a freelance jewellery writer and a itself. But, the filters are expensive in comparison Other projects funded by the Imagine Fund across regular contributor to a number of titles including with say Brita filters – although far more efficient – Culture Mile include a balcony singalong on the The Financial Times, Luxury London, JFW, VO+, and filter life may not be as long as suggested in the Golden Lane estate, a history project on the London Retail Jeweller, Rapaport and Platinum Resident. Zerowater documentation. Wall and a group walk exploring the floating pedways around Barbican and across the City. Barbican Water Filtration Culture Mile As part of the Imagine programme, Culture Mile e were recently given a Zerowater water wo Barbican residents have received £500 from will also be putting together resource packs to filter jug to test. The system claims to the Culture Mile Imagine Fund, to develop their share with those who might be isolated over the Wreduce total dissolved solids (TDS) in the Town community projects this winter. winter period, to provide new creative outlets and tap water to zero parts per million - which indeed Culture Mile’s Imagine Fund selects ten connect us to share our thoughts and it does. The water filter jug came with an members of the community to receive micro- experiences. Our first Imagine Pack, which we electronic water tester with which one can test grants to develop their ideas for the area, part of a hope to circulate during the current lockdown, the before and after TDS results for the water wider programme to support residents, visitors, will be a small starter pack including poetry, music being filtered and slightly worryingly the mains and workers this year. & art activities from poet Kit Finnie, with tap water in my Barbican flat showed up as 332 Actor, writer and campaigner, Kate Willoughby illustrations from visual artist Soofiya. These before filtration – described as an exceptionally will use her micro-grant for a community art activities will encourage people to explore & high reading in the Zerowater brochure. In my project, exploring what inspired her neighbours express their current situations, and to share some bathroom, where the cold tap is fed from a roof during lockdown. She’ll be creating an online of these experiences with us and others in the tank rather than directly from the mains supply, gallery, compiling inspirations from across the community. This will help us tailor the packs to the TDS reading was 343. Most UK tap water has Culture Mile area, including poems, pictures, local need going forward. We will also be creating a TDS of between 51 and 200 so the Barbican stories, songs, letters or in whatever form people packs with other local partners to go out in time readings, and perhaps most London tap water is want to express themselves. As well as digital for Christmas. the same, are well above average. submissions, the project will have a special ‘post If you’d like to receive a pack or find out more Wikipedia describes TDS as a measure of the box’ for anyone who would prefer to use paper or about any Culture Mile projects, please get in dissolved combined content of all inorganic and card. Poet Natasha Anne Kelleher will then write a touch at [email protected] or 07783 organic substances present in a liquid in poem in response. 171940
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 47 NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:33 Page 1
New Neighbourhood Policing The City of London Police recently launched a new policing model, which includes dedicated officers for certain areas of the City, one of which includes the Barbican. C Mark MurphyAs part of the Local communities will have contact City of London Police’s key information for their DWOs. ambition to ensure the Square Mile remains one of EAST the safest cities in the world, Chief Inspector Ray Marskell Pthe Local Policing strand of the PS- TBC Transform Programme has recently PCSO Eran Safer launched a new, enhanced neighbourhood Liverpool Street policing model known as ‘Sector Policing’. PC Phillip Shuttleworth The decision to adopt this new model PC Stephen Brooks was taken with careful consideration, to ensure that it would demonstrably benefit the forefront of our activity, enabling DWO.LiverpoolStCluster@city-of- our communities, including visitors, residents and businesses to london.pnn.police.uk residents and businesses. As part of this, communicate directly with officers Monument the force evaluated the successes and responsible for their area. PC Matthew Clapham challenges experienced by other The City has been split into two PC Manjit Kambo constabularies which have introduced ‘Sectors’, East and West, with a senior similar models. leader responsible for each sector. The DWO.MonumentCluster@city-of- Some of the key benefits include: Sectors are broken down further into london.pnn.police.uk n Delivery of an even better policing three ‘clusters’ comprised of several, service, giving confidence to victims smaller wards. Every cluster will have its Fenchurch Street and the community in our ability to own Dedicated Ward Officers (DWO), PC Caroline Fisk protect the Square Mile, tackle responsible for their areas, leading on the PC Trevor Machin criminals and solve local problems. policing response to, and management of, n Improved police visibility within the crime and disorder in that area and being DWO.FenchurchCluster@city-of- Square Mile, meeting public the main point of contact for visitors, london.pnn.police.uk expectation for high visibility and residents and businesses. DWOs will also proactive policing and delivering provide a consistent approach to long- WEST greater reassurance. term problems. Chief Inspector Chris Hay n A model which puts the community at This model is designed with the local PS John Peacock community in mind, PCSO Mohammed Ali giving residents and Bank businesses a single PC Dan Condon point of contact for PC Claire Geldart their area. It will also help the force’s DWO.BankCluster@city-of- response to live- london.pnn.police.uk crime, as well as Barbican long-term issues and PC Christine Phillips emerging threats PC PC Mark Murphy specific to each area. DWOs will also DWO.BarbicanCluster@city-of- engage with their london.pnn.police.uk respective Alderman, Fleet Street businesses, residents, PC Ford Keeble visitors to the City, PC Andrew Jacks The East/West split is based on geography and Independent Advisory Groups and other topography, crime data, locations of licensed appropriate existing forums. This DWO.FleetCluster@city-of- premises, crowded places, operation order engagement will help work towards the london.pnn.police.uk (events) data from the past two years as well as force’s priorities, which include alcohol anticipated future demand from new builds and drugs, vulnerable people (mental within the city health) and places, young people, hate We expect to have phone numbers set Eastern Clusters: Liverpool Street, crime and schools and youth engagement. up in mid-December and we’ll update you Monument, Fenchurch Street The priorities for each ward are dynamic on those in the next issue, though Western Clusters: Bank, Barbican, Fleet and can be changed, depending on current obviously members of the public can Street issues. email their DWO to arrange a chat.
48 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 MAGGIE'S BARTS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:25 Page 1 Maggie’s Barts Hannah Bosley highlights the fascinating Barts 360 Virtual Christmas Fair Experience Launching Friday 27th November We'd like to share Vicky's story with you. Vicky cancer throughout the coronavirus crisis over the phone, came to us for support when she was diagnosed email and through our online community. This support helped people 60,000 times during lockdown. with breast cancer. We have created a virtual n Maggie’s centres are open to see people by appointment and Christmas Fair this year to help raise money this limited drop ins, for those who are visiting hospitals. This Christmas so that we can be here for families like support will run alongside our ongoing phone, email and digital support. Vicky's when they need us most. n The first centre opened in Edinburgh in 1996. Maggie's now has 23 centres in the UK. There are also three international he day before Christmas Eve… I was told I might have centres offering Maggie's support. cancer. I’d found two little lumps in my breast and went n Maggie’s is funded by voluntary donations. to the hospital to get them looked at and biopsied. I was n Maggie’s President is HRH The Duchess of Cornwall. Ttold I would have to come back the following week, n Maggie's Chief Executive, Laura Lee was awarded a once the biopsies had been looked at by the lab. Damehood in 2020 for her services to people with cancer. The doctor told me they were extremely worried they may be n For more information visit maggies.org sinister. I was only 35. My two boys, William and Oliver, were five and seven at the time. That night, after I put the boys to bed, I couldn’t stop going over what had just happened. I couldn’t sleep, so I got up and wrapped presents instead… But I couldn’t stop thinking I might never see another Christmas with my family… The day before my 36th birthday, they found five tumours and the cancer had spread to my lymph nodes. Telling the boys was so hard. My youngest, William, asked me if I was going to die. That was horrendous. I told them we just had to get through the next few months. I honestly can’t imagine what it would have been like to go through all this without Maggie’s. I remember the first time I went to the centre; my dad was with me and I just burst into tears; it felt like everyone was there to help me. The staff helped me to understand what was happening and what treatment would be like, so I was able to prepare…I can’t imagine how I would have got through the exhaustion of chemo and the pain and worry of those operations without Maggie’s. Even after treatment, Maggie’s helped me to manage side effects and gave me the support I needed to get back into a normal life and back to work. About Maggie’s
n Maggie’s is a charity providing free cancer support and information in centres across the UK and online. n Built in the grounds of NHS cancer hospitals, the centres are warm and welcoming, and are run by expert staff who help people live well with cancer. n Maggie’s has been supporting people with
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 49 PAGE 50 CHRISTMAS 2020.qxp_proof 24/11/2020 09:43 Page 1
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Contact ! "" ""!! Kitchen installation Please contact: 020 7324 1538 | [email protected] Bathroom installation Plumbing & cylinders Decorating Mariusz Walk in showers installation Garchey removal service 07719981345 BathB 10 years Barbican experience 02086847637 Fully insured Birmingham Insurance works undertaken [email protected] BristolBr Free quotation Cambmbridge References on request LeedsL stoneking.co.uksto Pictures shows work done this year more pic on request Lonondon
50 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 LEGAL MATTERS - CARTER CAMERONS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:11 Page 1
extension lease. The first stage is to obtain from the City of London an indicative figure for the Legal Matters premium which they prepared to accept for the extension lease. That figure can be included in the formal claim to the City of London for the Extending the Lease of your extension lease. The City of London then have a period of not less than 2 months to send a formal response to the claim. If the claim is accepted the Barbican Flat City of London will normally issue their standard early all the leases in the flats in the considering purchasing an extension lease. Here form of extension lease for signature together Barbican have approximately 85 years left are some points which you may wish to consider:- with details of the required payments and Nto run before they expire. The Leasehold 1. Most institutional lenders set a minimum completion process. Reform Housing and Urban and Development Act term which they are prepared to accept as The second stage is the review of the terms of 1993 (“the Act”) gives the tenants of residential security for a loan of a leasehold property and the extension lease offered, payment to the City of flats held on long leases (leases originally granted thus grant a mortgage. Several lenders London the required premium and their legal for more than 21 years) the right to claim an require a minimum term of 70 years. Anyone costs in order to complete the extension lease and extension lease of their flat. The effect of the grant purchasing a Barbican flat will also be then the registration the extension lease at the of the extension lease is to add a further 90 years concerned to be able to sell or re-mortgage Land Registry. to the existing lease term and to reduce the the flat easily once they have owned the flat The registration application at the Land Registry ground rent to a non-monetary amount of one for a few years. The period of years remaining can take several months because of nature of the peppercorn per year. The addition of a further 90 on the lease of flat can therefore affect its application and the current Covid-19 restrictions. years to the term will mean that the lease of most marketability. However, the Land Registry application can be Barbican flats will expire on 1st July 2196. 2. The cost of purchasing an extension lease expedited if there is a good reason to do so, such The extension lease has to be paid for by a way increases when the term of the existing lease as the pending sale of the property or mortgage of premium to the landlord and payment of the has less than 80 years to run. The tenant must of it. landlord’s surveyors and conveyancer’s fees. For pay to the landlord 50% of the “marriage The above is brief outline of the process of flats outside the Barbican there can be some value”. The marriage value is the amount of obtaining an extension lease in the Barbican. uncertainty about the amount of the premium the extra value a lease extension adds to the Similar considerations may apply to flats outside payable to the landlord and the landlord’s legal flat. Where the has more than 80 years left to the Barbican but the lease extension process may and surveyor’s fees. The premium is often run at the time the lease extension is claimed be less streamlined and more expensive. We can, negotiated after the claim is made and, if no this additional payment can be avoided. however, offer advice to extension applications agreement is reached, the matter can be referred either in or outside the Barbican. If you would like to a tribunal for determination. Such an If you choose to purchase an extension lease:- to know more about how your lease extension can application can substantially increase the legal 1. You will be investing in your own home. be dealt with please contact Lisa Ginesi, and surveyors fees. 2. You will increase the marketability of your flat. [email protected], or Ian West, However, where lease extensions in the 3. If you need to borrow money to fund the [email protected]. Barbican are concerned the City of London have purchase, interest rates are low at present. simplified the procedure. A formal claim under the There is a two stage process for acquiring an Act must be made. The City of London will let a tenant know beforehand the amount of the premium they are willing to accept and their legal costs if the City of London’s procedure is followed. The City of Giving City residents a helping hand London will accept a valuation from a local agent Based on Aldersgate Street, just a short walk from the Barbican, Carter Lemon Camerons LLP obtained for the purpose of has experience advising City of London residents on a variety of legal issues. an extension lease and use We offer a full range of legal services, including: that valuation to indicate the amount of premium Wills, trusts and probate which will be accepted for Property advice / buying / selling and lease extensions the lease extension. SME advice to directors and shareholders As mentioned above, Dispute resolution and civil litigation Employment advice to both employers and employees most Barbican flats have Charities about 85 years left to run on the existing lease. At first Please contactcontact [email protected] [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] or sight this appears to be a [email protected] call 020 7406 1000 for more information. more than adequate period Alternatively call 020 7406 1000 for more information to continue enjoying your flat and you may ask why www.cartercamerons.com you should now be
BARBICAN LIFE Chrstmas 2020 51 PAGE 52 XMAS 2020.qxp_proof 24/11/2020 09:57 Page 1
Specialising in leasehold properties, our expert team can provide advice on landlord and tenant issues.
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can retire and was interviewed to go and run a women’s because I’ve clothing co-operative in Burkina Faso. I still had done the course. the Italian outfits with stylish luggage and When I did it, I rather impressive shoes. Had I realized that the was quietly interview weekend was to be held in a disused Iconfident I would glove factory on the outskirts of Leicester, I Katharine Rumens know how to go might had reconsidered my wardrobe. A gang Rector, St Giles’ about things when of them had previously dug wells together and Cripplegate retirement happens showed up with rucksacks in big boots and in May 2021. It’s quite army surplus fatigues. I can’t say we bonded. a good thing to get the course over and done One of the selection panel was wearing novelty with: it stops those persistent e mail reminders knitwear that possibly his granny had knitted. from the diocese. Sartorially it was pretty lively; the questions Actually, all this was some time ago, I were less interesting. I’ve never met anyone else remember, and I have but a hazy memory of turned down by VSO. Years later, a kindly friend what we did over those three days in E14. As I said I probably looked as if I needed to take have been recklessly tossing in the bin all showers. We could have all saved ourselves unread paperwork accumulated over the past time if that had been one of the questions on 30 years, including my notes on how to retire the application form. Photo © Angus Mylne with thrift and refinement, I shall have to make I am pondering my options. My father was opened it very often – it’s unthumbed and there it up as I go along. Seems to have worked fine awfully helpful in retirement and I need to allow are no smudges of old food or flies on the as a strategy up till now. expectations of his daughter to subside to a pages. What I do remember is that we had two sensible level. Meanwhile for a complete Perhaps all he wanted was a gold watch or a sessions on eating lots of vegetables. We were change of direction, breeding dogs is out as is teasmade and they gave him yet another trade also advised to stand up even when everybody taking on a milk round. That’s the trouble with manual. I trust he was able to receive it else is sitting down. Quite why we had to hike growing up, reality clouds our vision. graciously. out to E14 to learn this remains a mystery. There A conscientious librarian in Wales is The homes of my childhood were always full was stuff about money which did not apply to cataloguing the collection of a deceased cleric. of clocks. My father was known to take in strays, the man whose wife owned bedsits in Hackney. She is also redistributing where possible. That is and there was always a tray of bits waiting to be Others of us had more modest property why we now have book of psalms and hymns cleaned and reassembled. Every room would portfolios. given to Rev PP Gilbert MA in 1867 by the two chime. Without irony, when he left his last A friends who is a retired URC minster did his churchwardens: John Craney and William parish, he was presented with a nasty battery- pre-retirement course in the days before we Weedon. This was when Fore Street continued operated carriage clock. As my mother later knew too much about vegetables. On his in its elegance right past the church before lamented, ‘You would have thought Doreen course, they were told to look after their feet. sweeping round into Redcross Street. I like to would have said something.’ But Doreen was This is what ecumenical dialogue does. We think that John Craney was something big at not consulted by the present-buying meet across our denominational divides and the Fore Street Warehouse Company and committee. In later years we were able to prize share information. I bring him up to date on William Weedon a respected member of off the plaque and offer the clock up to a bric vegetables and in exchange he tells me about Morrison, Dillon & Co. Mr Gilbert had been at St and brac stall. looking after my feet. We should be OK – Giles’ for 10 years when he was given the book Please note, when the fanfare sounds and the mobility of bowels and body. boldly embossed in gold. (That’s why it was Maytime presentation is made, it had better not Another friend was exposed to the Civil easy to spot the original owner). I don’t think he be a trade manual or a carriage clock. Service course. I don’t think he embraced it with much fervour and the only bit he owned up to was being told how to boil an egg. As he was catered for all the days of his life, he never did need to find his way to his cooker. They were Barbican told about the desirability of hobbies; we weren’t - not even tips on growing our own vegetables. Surely the gravitas of the retired Civil Servant, who professionally rubbed shoulder with scientists and spies, does not Art Society allow for the frivolity of making tufty rugs or macramé plant holders, even in retirement. If you are interested, My friend didn’t have hobbies. He had workshops and made harps and lutes and please contact harpsichords, leaving the boiling of eggs to others. The last time I was contemplating a change [email protected] of direction, I lobbed an application in to VSO
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 53 FINANCE.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:27 Page 1
review this yourself. You could consider shortening the term of your loan also as a way Personal Finance of saving money. If funds are available why not add to your investments? The market is unusually volatile Planning ideas for the pandemic: but if you’re investing for the longer term this some new, some not so new! should not be a concern. You can in any case choose investments with varying amounts of hen many of the marketing gurus deeds can in fact be written via online services risk and then allocate them to staggered made great play of this year being but given that this area can be a minefield you objectives; eg moderate risk investments for a 5 the year of “20 20 vision”, they would be advised to avoid the penny wise to 10 year timescale, then more equity-based somewhat overestimated the pound foolish approach. In a similar vein it may W ones for 10 years and beyond. By the same optimism that would be associated with the 20 be worth appointing a younger additional token if your investment portfolio is showing 20 idea. With the benefit of hindsight, in years trustee if you are yourself a trustee and are losses, it is not a good idea to panic sell, to come, we will forever conjure images of 2020 starting to get getting advanced in years. This is particularly if you are holding collective as being one of chaos, death and despair, rather a means of maintaining the trust’s smooth investments. It’s different of course if you have than associating it with clarity of vision. The operation if you die sooner than expected. individual stocks, where it may be better to cut Brexit debacle has even lost its place centre Now also might be a good tie to beef up your your losses, if a company or sector is going to stage in our thoughts. It’s best not forgotten, contingency fund. In normal times our advice is be badly and will be permanently hit by the however, that unless a deal happens in short that you should have a contingency fund of 3 to pandemic. order, we can look forward to additional dollops 6 months’ expenditure needs. Now it would The last thing I’d say in this unusually of misery come the new year. Even then a late seem a fund covering 12 months expenditure unfestive festive season is that if you are deal is unlikely to enable a smooth transition needs would be more prudent. Under lockdown fortunate enough to be financially secure out of the EU. Realistically, the festive season is it’s harder to go out and spend, so why not put notwithstanding the general uncertainty, do likely to be far from, with family gatherings and the money aside and ensure your lifeboat fund spare a thought for those worse off and who are the enjoyment of good cheer being logistically is as watertight as it can be? You could also go suffering exceptional hardship due to the challenging via zoom! through your regular outgoings and check pandemic. I know personally many of you are For me the challenge remains to make whether all of them are essential. If you are already giving a lot but food banks and financial planning relevant amid the competing unable to make use of memberships or homeless charities will be under desperate and claims for your attention. It is however subscriptions, you might as well cancel them. increasing pressure this winter and would very important to keep your eye on the ball as the If you have a mortgage or other debt, now much appreciate your further generosity. pandemic is going to be having a large impact would be a good time to refinance it. Interest If you have any queries about this article or if on your personal finances for some time to rates are going to be lower now than when you there are any topics you'd like to discuss, please come. There are in fact things you should be took out your loan, so look around and see feel free to contact us. We won’t make a charge doing whatever the circumstances. what’s on offer. With the internet it is easy to for any time we spend with you on your The obvious one, and I know I have preliminary enquiry. already mentioned it this year, is to make If you then wish to take matters sure that your will arrangements are further we will explain in detail how reviewed or indeed put in place. This can much work would be involved and how help maximise the potential for estate our fee structure works, before we planning and it is also a simple way of undertake any work on your behalf. We making sure that your wealth finds its will then leave the ball in your court. As way to where you want it to go, once you we are independent advisers we can have no further use for it. Drafting a will adapt our fees to your precise can be a complex undertaking and it is requirements. Clearly we will be unable usually one that involves one or two to offer anything other than generic meetings with a suitably qualified advice, without familiarising ourselves willwriter, or a solicitor. Lockdown or not, totally with your situation and in person meetings should be avoided objectives. Once we have completed our for the time being. Our own company factfinding however, we will then be in a stopped doing them in March and all position to provide you with a detailed communications since then have been report with our recommendations. via phone or internet. Using skype, zoom As a rule new clients are for the most or similar can be demanding for you if part referred to us personally by existing you aren’t computer literate but having clients, many of whom have been with said that it should be perfectly possible us for decades, or in a number of cases to find a practitioner who can talk you by professional connections such as through the technical steps involved. solicitors, associate companies and Equally important is to ensure you advisers working in other jurisdictions. If have a lasting power of attorney. There you’d like to get in touch, we'd be are two types: medical, and also property pleased to hear from you and do our and finance. Your attorney can then act on your Joe Coten is a member of the Personal Finance best to help. behalf in the event of your being unable to do Society. He may be reached on 0207 588 9626. In the meantime please do all you can to stay so yourself due to illness or lack of mental [email protected] safe. capacity. Wills and lasting power of attorney www.elementaryinvestments.co.uk
54 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 BA DISCOUNT SCHEME.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:22 Page 2
BARBICAN ASSOCIATION DISCOUNT SCHEME PARTICIPANTS A list of organisations offering discounts or other incentives to Barbican Association members. If you are not already a BA member, make sure you join the Barbican Association to qualify – for most of these just one visit will more than cover your annual BA membership subscription cost. Local businesses which wish to participate and offer a discount or other incentive to BA members should contact Helen Hudson, 07842 23 52 68 or [email protected] further information.
Fare New all-day-dining bar and canteen split Many businesses participating across two floors offering a grab and-go in the BA discount scheme coffee area, intimate cocktail and wine bar, have been closed due to covid and restaurant serving a selection of modern 19. Reopening dates and seasonal small plates with larger sharing dishes from the robata grill. 20% off food for discount arrangements may be Barbican Association members. State resident subject to changes discount when booking and show PLEASE PHONE AHEAD! FOOD AND DRINK membership card on arrival). Find Fare Bar + Canteen at the Morelands building on Old Aprés Food Co – MAKE FRIENDS WITH FOOD dishes. It offers all Barbican Association Street, 0203 034 0736 Delicious homemade gluten free food your Members a 10% discount on their total bill on www.farebarandcanteen.com. body loves. Comfort food without the slump. presentation of the BA Membership card.
We all need great food that makes us feel Liverpool Street, Unit 24, Liverpool Street Fish Central alive – that’s why this isn’t just a restaurant: Station, London EC2M 7QH (above platform Bustling neighbourhood seafood restaurant it’s a movement. Offering Barbican Association 1, behind M&S). Tel / Fax: 020 7247 3227 serving the well known as well as the more members 15% off all food on the menu (so please exotic varieties of the freshest fish. 10% off mention when booking and/or show Neo the total bill – restaurant only. 149-155 membership card on arrival). Open Mon – Fri: 14-17 Carthusian Street, Tel: 0207 726 8925: Central Street, King Square, London, EC1V 8am – 4pm and 6pm – 10pm & Sat: 10am – Special pizza and drink offer for BA members – any 8AP. Tel: 0207 2534 970 2pm, 72 St John Street, Clerkenwell, EC1M Pizza and a glass of house wine or soft drink for
4DT, Tel 0207 6868 888, Email £9.95. Neo’s pizza dough is made fresh every Hammer & Tongs [email protected] morning and only quality fresh toppings are South African style barbecue (braai) used. Special offer applies from Saturday restaurant in Farringdon, close to Exmouth Artillery Arms through to Wednesday. Reopening 2021 Market. Meat and fish dishes cooked over an 15% discount on drinks on presentation of BA open wood fire indoors to give the authentic membership card. The Artillery Arms is at 102 Pho Vietnamese Cafe/Restaurant braai taste. 20% discount on the total bill for Bunhill Row, EC1Y 8ND. Telephone 020 7253 10% discount at all times. 86 St John Street, Barbican Association members. Please mention 4683 for table bookings. Website EC1M 4EH. Tel: 020 7253 7624. Email: membership on booking or being seated in www.artillery-arms.co.uk [email protected]. Pho is open Monday to the restaurant. Open Monday-Saturday 12 Friday from late morning to late evening and noon to 12 midnight. Hammer & Tongs,171 Chiswell Street Dining Rooms on Saturday evenings. Farringdon Road,London EC1R 3AL. Tel: 020 20% off total food bill in the evenings Mondays to 3302 6645. Web: www.hammertongs.co.uk Fridays. To take advantage of the offer please St Barts Brewery
bring proof of membership. Not applicable Bar/restaurant on corner of Long Lane and The Jugged Hare with any other offer. To view menu or to West Smithfield. 20% weekend discount off all British GastroPub with open kitchen and reserve a table visit the website food and drink on production of Barbican separate private events space on the corner www.chiswellstreetdining.com Association membership card. Bookings not of Chiswell Street and Silk Street. 20% off the necessary but advised. 66 West Smithfield, total food bill Monday – Friday dinner and all day Coq d’Argent EC1A 9DY. Tel: 020 7600 2705. To view on Saturdays and Sundays. 49 Chiswell Street. A complimentary glass of Champagne when menus see website www.stbartsbrewery.com London EC1Y 4SA. www.thejuggedhare.com ordering from the a la carte menu (up to 6 Max,
not to be used in conjunction with any other Stem and Glory LINO London offers). To redeem, Barbican Life members Vegan restaurant located close to the LINO is a new bar and restaurant taking a will need to mention ‘Barbican Life’ when Barbican in Bartholomew Close. First new approach to drinking and dining in the making their booking or present their London location following huge success of city. The offer they are currently running for membership card on arrival. Coq d’Argent, No initial Cambridge establishment. Restaurant residents is 25% off the food bill. (Not to be used 1 Poultry, EC2R 8EJM Tel: 020 7395 5000. offers Barbican Association members 20% off food in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to for bookings and walk-ins. Please mention BA availability. Offer valid for bookings + walk- The Coriander Indian Restaurant. discount offer when booking or entering. ins. State resident discount when booking Family-run business, fresh Indian food. 55 Stem and Glory is at 60 Bartholomew Close, and show membership card on arrival). Find Aldersgate Street, Barbican EC1A 4LA T: EC1A 7BF. Tel: 0203 969 9392. Web: LINO at 90 Bartholomew Close, EC1A 7EB or 0207 600 4747 or 0207 7964 499 stemandglory.co.uk. Open Mon-Fri 08.00– call on 020 8016 5199 www.linolondon.co.uk www.thecoriander.com/barbican- 23.00, Sat 10.00-23.30, Sun 10.00-17.00.
coriander.htmlBarbican Resident Special Moshi Moshi Sushi Discount (please show BA card). Take Away Vecchio Parioli Moshi Moshi is a calm, discreet place serving Collection – 15% Take Away delivery – 10% Dine in Friendly Italian restaurant at the corner of authentic Japanese sushi and izakaya-style – 10% Aldersgate Street and Carthusian Street
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 55 BA DISCOUNT SCHEME.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:22 Page 3
offers Barbican Association members a 10% City Psychotherapy St. Barbican, London EC1Y 8NX Tel: 0207 discount on production of their membership Psychotherapy and Jungian analysis for 256 9778. To find out more about our services card. 129 Aldersgate Street, EC1A 4JQ. Tel: adults by UKCP accredited psychotherapist. please email us on optician@ 0207 253 3240. 10% discount on initial consultation for BA londoneyeoptique.co.uk or alternatively visit members. Consulting room 2 mins from our website www.londoneyeoptique.co.uk Wood Street Bar and Restaurant Barbican tube station. To arrange an Mon to Wed 10% off total bill when sitting appointment please call Catherine Cox on No74 Hair & Beauty down to dine. Maximum of 6 people in a party. 020 7796 3454 or email ccox@ No 74 is delighted to give a introductory 30% The Barbican Association card discount must citypsychotherapy.org . For further information discount for the first visit on a single service for all be mentioned either when booking or when please visit www.citypsychotherapy.org BA Members. Discount 30% off for the first visit, ordering to take advantage. Barbican permanent discount 10% off on all hair and beauty Association membership card should also be Clear Coaching and Training services incl. YON-KA massage and facials, shown to person taking order. Wood Street Moving you from where you are now to where Sebastian, Wella & OPI treatments @ No74, Bar and Restaurant, Cnr. Wood Street and you want to be. 1-2-1 coaching in the 74 Compton Street, EC1V 0BN. www.no- Fore Street, Barbican, London EC2Y 5EJ. Tel Barbican with accredited Coach, DISC 74.co.uk , [email protected] , Tel. 020 74 020 7256 6990 assessor and NLP Practitioner. 10% discount 908555, BA card required on Coaching Sessions. Contact Michele 020 HEALTH, BEAUTY AND WELLBEING 7628 0887 / 07939 047 094 E-mail: Personal Training Acupuncture Access [email protected] , Private personal training in a studio – up to Acupuncture Access at 193 Whitecross St www.clearcoachingandtraining.com 20% discount for BA members. Individual 1:1 offers 20% off initial consultation to Barbican sessions provided by an experienced, residents, and 10% thereafter. Beat-off burn-out Easton London passionate trainer close to Old St roundabout with this deeply relaxing treatment. Herbs are New barber in the WeWork building on Moor (less than 10 minutes walk from the not used, which keeps the overall cost of Lane. Online booking only (pay after) and Barbican): phone 07729219328 email: treatment down. www.AcupunctureAccess. customers can also enjoy free café and bar. [email protected] Website: co.uk 07553 636841 Currently, Easton London offers a 50% discount BodyEngineer.co.uk on first-time bookings for their hair and beard Barbican Dental Care package. Use the code EASTON50 to redeem. Psychotherapy City 10% off normal fees; 25% off customised home However, for Barbican Association members, 10% discount on first four psychotherapy, whitening; 30% off combined “thermal diffusion you can also use the code BARB10 for an counselling or coaching sessions to BA members “and customised home whitening Amanda ongoing 10% discount on all services. Book on production of their membership card (5% to all Lenihan, Barbican Dental Care, Lower your appointment at https://www. Barbican residents). Practice at London Ground Floor, 2 Copthall Avenue, London eastonlondon.com/pages/locations-moorgate Bridge. Contact: Amanda Falkson. Phone: EC2R 7DA. Tel: 020 7256 2477. Website: and just show your Barbican card at the shop 0777 557 0208. Email: amanda@ www.barbicandentalcare.com to qualify. psychotherapycity.co.uk Web: www.psychotherapycity.co.uk Barbican Dental Health in the City 10% discount on examinations and hygiene Formerly the Feelgood Centre and now Registered Osteopath – Lucy Bracken treatments for Barbican Association Members. 1 moved to Room 57, 65 London Wall, EC2M 25% discount on the first three appointments 10% Wallside, Wood Street, Barbican, London 5TU, is offering Barbican Association members a discount thereafter to all BA members. Based five EC2Y 8BL Tel: 0207 638 8200 Website: 10% discount on a wide range of Therapies and minute walk north of the Barbican. Drakes www.barbicandental.com Treatments which are available from specialist Gym, 1 Pardon Street, EC1Y. Call Lucy on practitioners. For a full listing please check the 07712 647 282 or email Barbican Physio website: www.feelgoodcentre.com. For [email protected] A team of highly qualified and experienced booking or further information call 07946 084 physiotherapists offer a broad range of 848 or email [email protected]. Registered Osteopath and pain management physiotherapy services. 15% discount on Web: www.healthinthecity.co.uk – Christopher Blackburne physiotherapy fees for self-paying Barbican BA members and residents receive a 25% discount Residents on presentation of BA card. Entrance Insight London for Initial Osteopathic consultation and treatment off Podium Level. No. 1, The Postern, Wood Counselling and Psychotherapy 20% discount and 20% discount thereafter. Hermes Health, Street, Barbican, London EC2Y 8BJ. on the initial consultation for BA members. Fees 33-35 Chiswell Street, EC1Y 4SF. For Tel: 020 7606 6530. for ongoing sessions are negotiable bookings text Chris on 07966 243653 or email Website: www.barbicanphysio.co.uk according to individual circumstances. [email protected]. Website – www. Individual, couple and family sessions with a cbosteopathy.com www.hermeshealth.uk Barry’s Bootcamp – NEW Chartered Clinical Psychologist. Consulting We’re calling it #NeighboursWithFavours. rooms in Golders Green, close to the Thao V Hair Studio – UPDATED Walk in with your BA card and book your first class Underground, 25 minutes from Moorgate. Our spacious and stylish hair salon is located free so you can really feel Barry’s energy before you On-street parking is available. Website: at the foot of Lauderdale Tower in the get hooked! Then you can also enjoy 10% off www.insightlondon.co.uk. To arrange an Barbican. We offer Barbican Association their 10+ packages. Website: Barry’s. Offer appointment contact Marc Hekster 07775 629 members 10% off a haircut or blow dry on your first valid for St Paul’s and Moorgate branches, so 432 or email. [email protected] visit, and we also have a loyalty scheme for just pick the one most convenient to you! regular customers. Please request the London Eye Optique discount when you book. Full details, pricing Bodymotion Chiropractic Clinic London Eye Optique Optometrists is offering and opening times are on our website 15% discount on presentation of Barbican Barbican Association members 10% discount on www.thaov.com. Bookings: 020 7628 4897, Association membership card. No. 1 Wallside, all complete pairs of spectacles. *Terms and or Book Online at Barbican. Phone 020 7374 2272 for Conditions apply. London Eye Optique www.vagaro.com/thaovhairstudio appointment. www.body-motion.co.uk Opticians, 2a Cherry Tree Walk, Whitecross
56 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 BA DISCOUNT SCHEME.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:22 Page 4
SALES AND SERVICES Tel: 0203 3261116, measure window blinds and shutters. Use Abracadabra Services email: [email protected]” promo code BARB01 for 15% discount. 5% discount off regular weekly, fortnightly or www.adamsblinds.co.uk or email John at monthly cleaning prices and a 10% discount off Prince of Wales Dry Cleaners [email protected] for further details. prices for one-off Spring and end of tenancy Service includes, dry cleaning, laundry cleans. Contact Abracadabra Services Ltd., 10 service, linen service. We also clean leather Alma Home Glasshouse Yard, Barbican, London EC1A and suede, and do alterations and repairs. 10% discount on furnishings. View at showroom 4JN or call Allan Lee on 020 7336 7686. Fax: We also provide shoe repairs. Free pick up at 8 Vigo Street, London W1S 3HN, or in 020 7336 7687. Email: [email protected] and delivery service. Special offer laundering Selfridges. See also website Website: www.abraserve.co.uk 5 shirts for £7.50. Offering 10% discount on first www.almahome.co.uk. Contact Tisha Richbell on orders and any bulk orders. 17 Prince of Wales 020 7377 0762 or by email: Certax Rd, London NW5 3LH Phone: 02072 671540 [email protected] for further details. Certax Accounting (EC London) 5% off the first and 07590 377245 years Tax & Accounting services if you are looking Hand Drawn Walls to change accountants. Aimed at individuals, Urban Locker Self Storage Bespoke murals from Hand Drawn Walls: Make companies, contractors & landlords. Contact Your stuff, close by at Paterson Court, your space your own with an interior mural. See a Marie on 07903 585959. 81 Rivington St., Peerless Street, London EC1V 9EX. Tel: 020 wide range of examples from small details to full Shoreditch, EC2A 3AY. 3637 0850. Catering for all your storage walls at www.handdrawnwalls.co.uk. We’d love to www.certaxaccountingeclondon. co.uk needs. Business and Domestic, Safe and offer all Barbican Association members a free initial visit Secure 10% Discount on any solution when and a 15% discount. Drop us a line at Casa Usaquén presented with the BA membership card [email protected], or call Tom on 07906 382 639. Handmade Colombian products – black CULTURE terracotta ceramics and other design items. Add an elegant touch to your interiors, or Charterhouse MAR-DEN surprise your friends with a unique and stylish 10% off the Charterhouse tour, or the Brother’s We source and sell a range of art deco, present. Contact us to get 10% off / free Charterhouse Tour, subject to availability midcentury and modernist furniture. We delivery to the Barbican. Email: info. (normally £15 and £20 respectively). Tours already have fantastic clients in the Barbican [email protected] Instagram: daily Tuesday-Saturday. Book at Museum and would now like to offer all residents a 10% @casa. usaquen Web: www.casausaquen. Reception showing your card (one tour place discount. Please contact Frances on 07940 wordpress.com per card). You can book up to one week in 762885, or email [email protected]. advance. A great opportunity to discover one Alternatively you can enter ‘barbican’ in the LSO Live of London’s most important historic sites, discount box and purchase items online. LSO Live is the record label of the London embracing seven centuries of history, right on Please visit www.mar-den.co.uk Symphony Orchestra, the Barbican’s resident the Barbican’s doorstep. The Charterhouse orchestra. Barbican Association members may has been a burial ground, a monastery, a MILK Concept Boutique claim a 20% discount – using the code Tudor mansion, school, and almshouse, Small furnishings, contemporary hand-crafted BARBICANLSO – on any orders of CDs or which it remains to this day. lighting, collectable porcelain, fragrances, downloads made via the online shop – www.thecharterhouse.org Charterhouse travel accessories and exclusive fashion https://lsolive.lso.co.uk. LSO Live CDs are Square, London EC1 labels can all be found relaxing in comfort also available from the Barbican Centre shop amid the whitewash Victoriana and petite but without a discount for now. Velorose Gallery elegance of The Clerk’s House, beside Cultural Hub Gallery in beautifully refurbished Shoreditch church. BA Members offered discounts Mail Boxes Etc, Barbican landmark building offers Barbican Association of 5% to 10% on all goods except Fornasetti. 118 10% discount to BA members on any Fedex members 5% – 10% discount on works from 1/2 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JN, International Priority or UPS Express shipment. current and previous exhibitions. 1B Tel/Fax 0207 7299880 Members should show their BA membership cards Charterhouse Square EC1M 6EE | and discount will be applied at time of purchase on www.velorose.com | 020-7253 1090 | MyDreamKitchen the current Fedex or UPS retail price. Not valid [email protected] 5% discount on fitted kitchens. Contact Spiro with any other offer and only available at Mail Nicholas, MyDreamKitchen, 708 Lea Bridge Boxes Etc, Barbican. We are open from FURNISHING Road, London E10 6AW. Freephone 0800 8.30am to 6.00pm Monday – Friday. 128 Adams Blinds 018 5654. Email: spiro@mydreamkitchen. Aldersgate Street, London, EC1A 4AE. Measure, supply and fit premium made-to- co.uk Web: www.mydreamkitchen.co.uk
Local businesses wishing to participate and offer a discount or other incentive to BA members should contact Helen Hudson 07842 23 52 68 [email protected] for further information
BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 57 PAGE 58.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 11:38 Page 1
THE RECOGNISED ASSOCIATION REPRESENTING THE INTERESTS OF BARBICAN RESIDENTS 202020192021 MEMBERSHIPMEMBERSHIPMEMBERSHIP FORMFORM
Barbican Address
Mailing Address Member type: Leaseholder / Corporation Tenant / Sub-tenant (please delete as appropriate) Names 1 2 3 4
Telephone Nos Fax Email Address
Membership fee £8 if paying by cheque OR £5 if paying by STANDING ORDER: For addresses outside the Barbican add £3 for UK, £6 for Europe, £9 for rest of world to cover postage. Membership cards: Membership cards are printed in batches either monthly or bi-monthly depending on the print run required We would prefer you to pay by standing order. It saves our volunteers much time. Please complete the attached form. Alternatively send a cheque payable to ‘Barbican Association’ with your address on the back. Please return this form to Jim Davies, Membership Secretary, 101, Mountjoy House, Barbican, EC2Y 8BP. E mail: [email protected] The Barbican Association keeps a database of the names, addresses, telephone numbers and e mail addresses of Association Members. Information from the database is used by our General Council and Affiliated House Groups for maintaining and increasing membership, distributing our publications, managing and reporting on our finances and accounts, and carrying out other objects of the Association. We also disclose information about our membership to the Corporation of London (including the Barbican Estate Office) in order to maintain their recognition of the Association. By becoming a member of the Association, you consent to the use of your information for these purposes. StandingSTANDING order ORDER mandate (please complete in block capitals) To Bank Branch Address To Bank Address Branch Bank Branch Title Sorting Code Number PleaseLloyds creditBank the account 30-91-79 For the credit of: BankBenificiary’s NameSort code Acount number Account Number * Quoting Reference LloydsBarbican Bank Association30-91-79 27933660 27933660Barbican Association Commencing CommencingDate of first payment Amount of first payment Amount in figures Amount in words Due date and frequency if different (office use only) First payment date Repeating£ Until £ Reference Amount 1 January Amount annually in words ASAP Annually Further notice £ Date of last payment NameUntil further of account notice in writing to be or debited Sort codeand debit my/our Account account number annually Name of account to be debited Sort Code Account Number
Name Signature
This replaces my/our previous standing order for the transfer of £ to the same account (cross out if not applicable)
Name(s) Signature Name Signature BLOCK CAPITALS PLEASE Address Signature Address Date
Postcode Date Postcode
58 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 FOR AGREED SALE SALE £535,000 £830,000 LEASEHOLD LEASEHOLD Ben Jonson House, Barbican, EC2Y Defoe House, Barbican, EC2Y A third floor, one-bedroom apartment (type F2C) offering a This one bedroom penthouse (type 23) based within London’s modern, inviting environment that’s perfect for living or home finest brutalist architectural example, The Barbican Estate - offers working. Upgraded bathroom and kitchen. Plus stunning views an incredible quality of internal finish and a glorious vista of over the stylish John Ravera-designed Dolphin Fountain. London’s iconic St Paul’s Cathedral.
TO TO LET LET £515 £410 PER WEEK PER WEEK Blake Tower, EC2Y Cathedral Lodge, Aldersgate Street, EC1 Exceptional one bedroom apartment located in the iconic Blake Larger than average one bedroom apartment with newly Tower. Situated on the second floor, the flat has a bright renovated kitchen and bathroom. Private balcony, porter, modern reception room with open- plan high spec kitchen and communal roof terrace and allocated underground parking space hand carved features derived from forms found in the Barbican INCLUDING A FABULOUS FEATURE CONCRETE WALL
CALL US TODAY 020 3693 9444 For a free no obligation appraisal of your property
www.awchilds.co.uk Our properties are listed on: 96 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3EA FLATWATCH.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:00 Page 1
Barbican Flat Watch
have been numerous including the sale of a large top floor three bedroom flat in Mountjoy House Swings and Roundabouts and a large three bedroom corner flat in o, I’m not referencing the Barbican’s properties – previously the trend had been Frobisher Crescent. My opinion on the sales children’s play areas in the two gardens – moving towards unfurnished ones. market for the next six months? If you are None of which I can view out of my Those estate agents who specialise in selling considering trading up to a larger flat now is the apartment windows - but the effects of the and/or letting Barbican apartments are already time to do it, I believe we will continue to sell coronavirus on Barbican property prices. noticing the above trends. However any Barbican flats but they need to be presented Nationally, according to the data from those that downturn in business has perhaps been well. Dressing your property to sell in this collate it, property prices are rising across the mitigated so far by the Chancellor’s stamp duty challenging market is the best advice I can give. country and reaching record levels. But before reductions which will have cut the cost of www.frankharris.co.uk Barbican flat owners start any premature purchase of virtually all Barbican apartments by celebrations, the increase in people now working around £15,000, given that even many studio Glen Cook at Hamilton Brooks: We have now from home is also meaning that there is a apartments now sell for around £500,000. The just entered the second COVID lock down period possibly accelerating trend towards moving out agents do seem to be reporting reasonable so in terms of the market picking up I am going of central London to more leafy suburbia, or numbers of transactions, so all is far from doom to have to delay any real comment apart from beyond. This could well be having an impact on and gloom for Barbican property owners. my own personal vews. One thing that’s property prices here as business people may no We hope that the prospects of an effective different is that during the lock down (2) we are longer feel the need to live so close to their vaccine becoming available may lead to a degree OPEN this time for viewings and valuations which places of work, although most of our local Estate of normalisation, but it’s early days yet. We is great news and we are actually seeing offers Agents have been seeing good business somehow feel that, even if the virus is defeated, coming in. My view is that anyone looking now is regardless. the new normal will differ in many respects from a serious buyer, why waste time, effort, travel, The trend will also have benefits for employers past living and commuting patterns, although risk, if you are not serious, we agreed 3 sales last which they may not have recognised previously. the Barbican’s great location and transport links, week, so despite lock down ( 2) flats are selling - Enforced home working will have demonstrated hopefully soon to further benefit from the slowly but surely. Next year is a tricky call about that it may not be necessary for all employees to Elizabeth Line (Crossrail), will maintain the Estate what the market will do, again I have my own spend five days a week in centralised offices – as a great London location for all current and personal views, but until we see if lock down (2) many of their tasks can equally easily be prospective residents. London remains one of is extended or indeed a lock down (3) after performed remotely which may mean reduced the world’s most attractive cities for living and Christmas happens, then it’s impossible to office size and overheads which potentially working and we should, in the Barbican, continue predict. I do think that in the absence of lock means reduced costs, which is good for the to benefit therefrom. down (3) after Christmas we could see a surge in bottom line. And for the employee a reduction in demand, with overseas bankers/lawyers, IT, commuting time and cost may make the remote LOCAL ESTATE AGENTS’ slowly returning to City desks and/or planning a working option increasingly welcome as will the COMMENTS return early in the New Year. If commuting is to opportunity to spend more time at home with reduce by 30/40% those could become buyers of the family. SALES flats. We shall see. www.hamiltonbrooks.co.uk Lettings business also seems to be a little Tina Evans at Frank Harris: Well we are just at muted compared with pre-coronavirus days and the start of a four week lockdown but estate Nicola Lee at Nicola Lee Ltd.: We have agents are finding that they may need to reduce agents are permitted to work so we will of course completed on several properties this month, rents a little to maintain business. Nevertheless, be here for viewings and appraisals. Since our despite the City of London remaining quiet. We rental interest in Barbican properties does seem last update in the summer both August and are receiving significantly more enquiries and to be remaining positive because of the estate’s particularly September were incredibly busy, our viewing requests for two-bedroom properties, excellent location and transport links. stock is dwindling but we do continue to receive which may indicate that buyers are looking for Interestingly one agent reports that there requests for viewings particularly for two extra room to accommodate remote working. In seems to be a resurrection of interest in furnished bedroom flats. Our successes of the summer previous years we would have encouraged sellers
60 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 FLATWATCH.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 14:01 Page 2
to wait until spring to sell their property, but we advantage of the stamp duty saving which ends we could see a surge in demand, with overseas now believe that new properties should be at the end of March and potential new tenants bankers/lawyers, IT, slowly returning to City desks marketed over the Christmas period as people realising that Barbican and The City offers a and or planning a return early in the New Year. stay at home and plan for the year ahead. I must superb opportunity to live in Central London. confess to having found writing this commentary Hurford Salvi Carr wish you all a joyful and Lindsay Lee at Nicola Lee Ltd: The rental market difficult through another lockdown, as I do not peaceful festive season and we look forward to a picked up later than usual as professionals and think that this can truly convey the present. So I cheerful New Year. www.hurford-salvi-carr.co.uk students had not returned to the City as urge anybody with concerns or questions to anticipated. Landlords have accepted lower rent contact me, or to pop into our office (socially Alex Childs at AW Childs: We continue to in order to keep the current tenant or encourage distanced, and as allowed under lockdown). We operate following government guidelines. If you new tenants as they are keen to have the wish you all a calm and happy Christmas and are considering selling or letting your Barbican property let. We had a considerable amount of New Year. www.nicolalee.co.uk property please contact us to discuss. We would enquiries on a smaller property in the Golden like to wish everyone well and stay safe. Lane Estate which was immaculately presented, Marco Fugaccia at Hurford Salvi Carr: We will www.awchilds.co.uk and it let very quickly, while not so well- probably look back in years to come and realise presented flats have taken longer to let. Whilst how severe 2020 has been and how the Nick Scott at Scott City: The City property unfurnished properties were once popular, more residential sales market was put under immense market is still slow following the announcement tenants now seem to prefer furnished. It is pressure. Our working, social and family of a further lockdown. Let’s hope the news of a encouraging to see that landlords are becoming situations were side-tracked, and COVID-19 vaccine is what we need to see a return to work more realistic about prices and timing, and we changed our lives. Although the Barbican and for the many City employees who are at present appreciate all the landlords with whom we have The City residential sale and letting markets are a working remotely from home. Although we are the pleasure of working. unique bubble and generally quite resilient to seeing a reluctance to commit to buy, stock change, the exodus of our working population, levels are good generally for the Barbican and Joe Davison at Scott City: During these COVID who we so rely on, has hindered values and with the reduction we have seen in sales values times, the rental market has been tough with demand, something perhaps not seen outside now could be a good time to buy. Let’s hope for many people putting moving plans on hold. the Central London areas. Whilst ‘city workers’ some good news soon and a return to some form Having said that, properties in the Barbican are have not been using their offices to continue of normality. Time will tell. www.scottcity.co.uk still doing well and remain in constant demand. their business, we have seen prices in both The prices we are achieving have come down residential sales and lettings either soften or LETTINGS slightly, but if we can get these slight reductions owners and landlords standing firm and waiting Glen Cook: Most of the turmoil caused by we are still finding plenty of people enquiring for the market to show signs of improvement. lockdown (1) has settled, lockdown (2) does not and offering. January, I believe, will bring renewed energy to seem as disruptive, demand is steady. I do think both markets with many buyers taking in the absence of lockdown (3) after Christmas
1b Charterhouse Square, EC1M 6EE 020-3488 4330 NICOLA LEE www.nicolalee.co.uk A FRESH APPROACH, IN SAFE HANDS Peace of Mind: In response to requests by residents out of London under lockdown, we are now offering a ‘Peace of Mind’ service, through which we will keep an eye on your home on a monthly basis, for a small charge. The main areas of concern appear to be: leaks/flooding, Garchey, water evaporating from the toilet U-bend, windows and doors being securely shut and mail build-up; for a small additional charge we can forward mail. For further details please see www.nicolalee.co.uk and if you are interested in this service, please contact us on 020 3488 4330 or email [email protected] As ever, if you are thinking of selling or letting, please call or visit us as above. Defoe House Breton House Bright spacious one bedroom Extremely spacious (830 sqft) 'L' shaped apartment, with space barrel vaulted split level penthouse to use as a two bedroom. Located FOR SALE FOR SALE one bedroom apartment. West on the 4th floor, south facing with facing, on the 6th and 7th floor. views over the lake and gardens. Bright west facing terrace on the Most of the original features have 7th floor. A spiral staircase leads been retained. The apartment is in from the reception up to the good decorative order. bedroom and shower room. £900,000 Extended lease. £850,000
Frobisher Crescent Andrewes House Immaculate studio located in a A beautifully presented spacious quiet location on the 7th floor bright one bedroom ‘L’ shaped overlooking the Sculpture Court. It FOR SALE FOR SALE apartment, with space to use as benefits from a pull down bed a two bedroom. South facing, with a table attached. There is a located on the 4th Floor, with built in wardrobe with drawers. A north views over the lake and generous shower room with a gardens. built in cupboard housing a Large shower room with separate washer/dryer. Beautiful wood WC. Generous bedroom with flooring throughout the reception built in cupboards. and hallway. £575,000 £915,000 CLASSIFIED.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:39 Page 4
contact [email protected] , or call me on 07785 300862 for prices and availability. Near Morzine/Portes du Soleil: luxury self-catering ski chalet with concierge service. Sleeps 12/14 in great comfort. Sauna, hot tub, log fire, books, games, antiques, fantastic views. See chaletgueret.com or email [email protected] for Barbican ified more details. s Marbella Holiday Apartment to Rent – Lovely two bedroom, two bathroom, apartment with terrace to rent on a beautiful Life urbanisation just 15 minutes walk from the beach. 4 swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, 2 paddle courts and onsite restaurant set Clas in picturesque gardens. Close to both Marbella and Puerto The next issue of Barbican Life will be published in March and advertisement copy Banus. Discount for Barbican residents. For information please should be sent, by early February to: Helen Hudson contact [email protected] - www.marbella- 34 John Trundle Court, Barbican, EC2Y 8DJ apartment-for-rent.com 07842 23 52 68 [email protected] French Riviera (Antibes/Juan-les-Pins), stylish modern two bedroomed apartment set in an exclusive small private DUPLICATE BRIDGE FOR SALE development. Very tranquil setting, yet just a short walk from Do you enjoy playing bridge? If so, do come along to the Preliminary to Flat sale: Corby Trouser Press: Over £150 on the beach, shops and all local amenities. Attractive gardens Barbican Bridge Club’s duplicate evenings, which are held on Amazon - £45; Cuisinart Soup Maker - £119 on Amazon – used and swimming pool. Ideal base for exploring the Riviera (Nice, the first Monday of the month (or second Monday if the first - £25; Miscellaneous bottles of wine – red/white/sparkling – £2 Cannes, hill villages, art galleries) or simply lazing by the beach. is a Bank Holiday) from 7pm to 10pm. We meet in the Lilac each; Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie capsule coffee machine - Less than 30 minutes from Nice airport. Owned by Barbican Room, 02 level of Seddon House. New participants are always £49.99 new - £10; Coopers instant hot water heater - £10; resident. Please contact [email protected] for welcome. We charge £1 a head to cover cost of cards etc. and Wahl James Martin spice/coffee grinder - £7.50. Miscellaneous more information and pictures. this has to be the best value one can get in the Barbican! For furniture items including extendable solid wood dining table TRANSLATION SERVICES further information please ring Karolin Arnott on 020 7588 and 6 chairs, L-shaped sofa, double sofabed; mahogany Accurate, professional and swift translation, editing and 2668. antique dressing table with mirror etc, available but need to typing of general, business and technical documents (finance, COMPANION / CARER NEEDED be collected and taken away; Other items may become legal, economic, marketing, computer…) (English, French, My husband has early onset dementia. He’s 62 and is really available. Some other furniture, cutlery, crockery, items etc. German, Italian, Dutch). Tel: 7638 4249 beginning to struggle. I work 4 days a week and am becoming available for purchase. Starting to clear flat ahead of sale. To BEAUTY AND HEALTH increasingly worried about leaving him alone on a daily basis, arrange view of items or to organise purchase and pick-up call Beauty By Louisa. I am fully trained OPI manicurist and just doing nothing, moving paperwork around and staring 07853 836 623 or email [email protected] (Flat owner visits to pedicurist living in the Barbican. I offer both manicures and into space. He doesn’t need any personal care at the moment. Barbican limited!) pedicures, using all OPI products. Manicures £15, pedicures He does however need a companion, someone to prepare MATHS AND ENGLISH TUITION £25. Special offer for Barbican residents £5 off your first food, a daily-friend to talk to and do things with locally – for a I am a secondary school teacher in a London state school and treatment. If you would like to book an appointment or have few hours, a few days a week. If you think you can help, a new resident in Barbican. I wish to offer my tutoring services any questions please do get in touch at please contact Claire on 077525 98587 in the following areas: KS3 Maths (good with slow learners); [email protected] or on 07540 009 185. Instagram COMPUTER HELP Teaching ESOL (English to the Speakers of Other Languages), For better day-to-day health and vitality and help with your Why struggle on your own? Need help with your computer, Bengali and Hindi (any age group); Creative art & craft work. individual health concerns, including weight management, install software, learn/improve surfing the net, word Please contact me in the following email to find out in detail bloating and digestive problems, fatigue and raised processing, spreadsheets, database, power point about the services and the timings. [email protected] cholesterol levels. Barbican resident Zeller offers practical presentations, etc … Help is just a phone call away: 7638 4249 MATHS TUITION support. Nutritionist Zeller has a BSc, is CNHC registered and CLEANING Maths Tuition offered at all levels to include GCSE, IGCSE, AS mBANT, and has been in practice here for 7 years. See my website www.zp-nutrition.co.uk or contact me on For a reliable and conscientious domestic cleaner who already and A2 in both Maths and Further Maths for Edexcel and MEI [email protected] or 020 7920 9647. cleans a number of Barbican apartments, call Claribel on 07949 examining boards, by a recently retired maths teacher with 768679. Light domestic cleaning and ironing undertaken. Also over forty years teaching experience and an excellent track UTILITY WAREHOUSE specialist cleaning of apartments pre- or post-occupancy. record of exam success. Modules include Pure Maths, Statistics Line Rental, Internet, Mobile phones, Electricity. BEST VALUE References from existing Barbican clients available. and Mechanics. Please contact Jenny on 07737395874 for recommended in Which Magazine. SAVINGS;- more great more details. FLAT SITTING value services you take the more you save. 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62 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 CLASSIFIED.qxp_proof 21/11/2020 10:40 Page 5
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BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 63 AFTERTHOUGHTS.qxp_proof 20/11/2020 13:35 Page 1
inches for no reason, The next unit, above the foot, Afterthoughts we shall call a Yard for no reason. The Yard will consist of…. Kevin Kiernan has been rummaging around the ‘10 feet?’ Museum of London archives during lockdown ‘3. It’s an average of the two-footed and four- and has found a Saxon script depicting events footed beings. As for the next unit, how long is exactly 1600 years ago. that pitch where we throw spears at each other?’
Kevin Kiernan ‘20 yards?’ ‘22 yards, call it a chain for…’ 20 AD. It was a freezing cold Wodensday. exceed the emissions criteria (even our extremely ‘No reason?’ Typical Yuletide weather. Alaric, the Saxon lax Saxon ones). Indeed the cattle hearing the cries ‘And 10 of those,’ said Alaric generously. ‘will be 4chief, was standing on Hygghgate Mound, of their bovine brethren, meeting their fate at a furlong’. looking down on Londinium. The last vestiges of Smythfield, will make the emissions more potent.’ ‘And 8 furlongs (we haven’t used 8 yet) should Roman occupation were quickly disappearing, ‘Drat and double drat, Rome and their make a mile. Let’s stop at a mile as that’s as far as a soon the Saxons would descend down Hollow’s emissions criteria’, declared Alaric. Although he Saxon gets from his village. Particularly when Way and enter the city as the new rulers. Free from reflected on the time when he was a cowherd faced with those new winding roads!’ the yoke of Rome, no more straight bananas and tending the kine in their winter barn in Bile-ericay– ‘What numbers haven’t we used?’ no more straight roads for that matter (although yes it was a fragrance difficult to forget. Alaric was ‘Well? 14 and 16 are in the queue.’ the disadvantages of the latter were far from proud that there was no Saxon word for Those inch-long pebbles we use as catapult obvious). Actually, with the Romans gone, there ‘regulation’. Of course, with a 200 word working ammunition about weighs about an inch – call it would be no bananas at all; difficult to trade other vocabulary there were lots of gaps. Gaps could be an ounce -. well obviously 16 ounces make a than punches with the old enemy. However useful though, there was no Saxon word for soap! pound. We shall make the unit of currency a turnips, with a bit of honey, were just as good as Or soap, itself for that matter. pound just to confuse everyone for the next 2000 bananas, apparently. He knew the Barbican well, Urk was right, it is a years. Anyway 14 pounds make a stone, and but Alaric suddenly had a vision, whether as a result very mares’ nest, full of misleading passages and what should make a hundredweight? ‘ of a demi-john of Old Goth-Thumper the night non sequiturs. He remembered attending a ‘100 pounds’ said Urk?’ before or something more divinely inspired, he conference of the Saxons and Angles tribe under ‘No, 112 of course.’ knew not. He could see a maze of narrow winding the title ‘Better together?’ (That was the one when Urk sighed and excused himself, he said he roads on the true Saxon pattern. ‘Roads should the delegates should have been the political wanted to paint his face with blue dye and find a find their own way just like a river does’. These leaders rather than the warriors.) The Centre was mirror to watch it dry. were the wise words of his Grandfather, just full of strange symbols – the Cull Chur Myle. It Of course drinking quantities were another before he died at the venerable age of 29. Alaric frightened the horses, if not the men. matter, Alaric mused. Now that the Romans and knew that the old pre-Roman road (now disused) Ah we should be soon be rid of this – let us their goblets were gone, they could go back to from London to Romford was a winding 256 miles return to the old Saxon ways – for culture, cover drinking out of hollowed cow horns and they long with little in the way of Service Stations other yourself in blue, then sing hearty songs and tell varied in size, of course, depending on the original than the one at Cambridge Mimms. They say that legends around the camp fire – job done. Of cow. The horns were difficult to clean. That was all roads lead to Rome, not the Romford one, it course, not everyone would be happy. There another thing - the Romans were obsessed with barely led to Romford. would always be the Romoaners, wanting to cleaning. The baths would provide excellent Alaric secretly admitted to himself he would retain Roman heritage – baths! central heating! storage facilities for coal. The Roman goblets had miss the Italian restaurants, particularly the and town planning! Although Alaric did enjoy the the big advantage of being able to stand on their fashionable ‘I came, I saw, I cannellonied’ in Games at the Circus Imaximus. Hippo vs Crocodile own, but the horns, when not in use, could be Chepeside, although the fashion for ‘small plates’ – classic! And the Panto, Lion in Boots, with real attached to our helmets – scary and practical - went down very badly with the Saxon lions. For Alaric, British heritage was Stonehenge, Saxon ingenuity. Construction workers. Of course, now they could pure and simple – job done, even if he had no idea Talking of drinking they could get back to a go back to proper Saxon Fodder – the all day what it was. Positioning stones that were pure Yuletide Pagan festival. No more smells and Brake Furst. The heroes’ meal which guaranteed dependent on the sun’s rays to make any sense bells of Christianity – just the Pagan smells without an escape from the ills of old age by the simple was always going to be a loser in a cloudy country. the bells. Yes, a pure Pagan Yuletide. And not the fact that, on that diet, one would never reach it. Would the Druids listen? Not until they took off extended festival – Christmas preparations have ‘Feeling Rash, have a rasher!’ Who could forget those thick hoods. been getting earlier and earlier. They had even that advert from their Danish Jute allies? Alaric was determined that Saxons would make invented Advent a month before Christmas, just to A sudden whiff of the fragrance, Oxcart No 6, their mark. However their budget for change was sell the calendars. He envisaged a short but was explained by the appearance of his scout. Urk, low. GDP was still a mystery to Alaric. He had only intense celebration plenty of Old Goth-Thumper was camouflaged in clothes that would make him just realised that ‘Gross’ meant something other There was an olde Saxon prediction myth that difficult to spot in a rubbish dump. He had come than ‘unpleasant’. Who could blame him? Much of Northern Europe got so drunk after the Romans back with his initial appraisal of their proposed the Saxon’s Domestic Product was unpleasant. left, that they didn’t wake up for 350 years – the triumphal entry into Londinium. Particularly the output from the Tripe Sheds. He Dark Ages. What nonsense – pass the Goth- ‘It may not be so easy, my Lord. The Northern needed something quick and cheap. Thumper, Urk. Not the Demi-John this time, the route into the city….. there is the Barbican. An odd He would get rid of the Roman’s decimalisation! full John! Merry Yuletide everyone. complex with straight paths so typically Roman, That would be low cost. The metre what was the but with dead ends. There is a through route point of that? Instead they would start with the starting at Cowecrosse Street leading to Beych St length of a step. Let’s call it a foot, what could be Cavern. More of a tunnel really, the problem is clearer. Then divide it into…. cattle going through it, or indeed our Saxon ‘Tenths’ suggested Urk warriors sewn into their winter clothes, may ‘Twelths’ corrected Alaric. We shall call them
64 BARBICAN LIFE Christmas 2020 SCOTT CITY XMAS 20 .qxp_Layout 1 20/11/2020 12:08 Page 1
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