Matteo Muci’s cool two-minute animated voyage through some of the most iconic masterpieces of modern architecture:

Ville Savoye by Le Corbusier, Rietveld Schröder House by Gerrit Rietveld, Farnsworth House by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Glass House by Philip Johnson and Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Illustration, animation and music by Matteo Muci.

Enjoy!

Webfolio: matteomuci.com

US Interiors Store West Elm arrived last winter, but has failed to make a big impact despite the press coverage (bring on Crate & Barrel I say). Regardless, it’s still worth a visit, if only to avoid other design stores and to grab a coffee from their in-house cafe. A bit unfair? Actually yes because pricing is sharp and look carefully and gems can be found - like this great stack of boxes in every conceivable shape, size and finish…

And they have a design service, which is a great addition at this price point. Check them out - flagship store is on Tottenham Court Road.

Works are coming to a completion at our new development in Clerkenwell - situated off the perennially attractive Exmouth Market. Th shots below give a glimpse of what buyers can expect from the 4 luxury duplex penthouse apartments within.

The architects - Macdowell + Benedetti have done a fantastic job on the external appearance of the building - retaining the historic facade while bringing it bang up to date with refurbished and new windows and frames in gloss black that really complement the brickwork.

Internally, an expressive materials palette has been used by interior designers The Sheldon Studio, including cracked bronze feature panels that connect the kitchen and living/ dining areas.

The apartments, priced from £1.375m, are available for viewing now through our joint sole agents Hurford Salvi Carr 020 7250 1012 and Pilcher Hershman 020 7399 8600.

Ah.. the beautiful game

Having a snoop around friends Egelnick & Webb’s Blog recently I stumbled across their post of this great animation posted up on Vimeo entitled: The ABC of Architects

The producers say: “This work is an alphabetical list of the most important architects with their best known building.” Check it out and see if you agree. Answers on a postcard. Or not. Nice design though.

To Amsterdam on potential future business (so easy via T5, yet oddly confusing at Schiphol - an airport often voted best in the world by business travelers - must be a ‘system’ you need to learn to get with it), we were honoured to stay as guests at the newish Andaz Hotel in the city.

Opened in late-2012 after a 5 year refurbishment, the 100+ room boutique hotel has received the magical touch of international multi-talented design maverick and local boy Marcel Wanders. The hotel is a triumph - it feels small, welcoming, intimate and above all, Dutch. Which is great. The exterior does nothing to reveal the playful whimsy that greets you within - from the tulip chairs in reception to soaring atrium punctuated with bell-like light shades and bespoke wallpaper.

The fun continues in the rooms, which have simple, but bold colour schemes (a naval blue - echoing Dutch history - is a common colour throughout) and want for nothing (light control, ipod docks, espresso makers, selection of books…). They also feature the love-it or loathe-it addition of integrated bathrooms - with the basin in the middle of the room and wc and shower hidden in cupboards off the main space. I liked it - in a hotel though not for home (which is the point, right?).

The icing on the cake is a good bar (with free drinks and nibbles between 5 and 7 each day), helpful and youthful staff, good food and a great location minutes from the centre. If you are lucky enough to bag a canalside room do so - watching the world pass slowly (in this capital city) from a picture window.

Want to visit? Details on the website here.

We are happy to have the guys from Design Marketo back at our space. After the last exhibition Bar Alto nearly exactly 1 year ago, the expectations were high- but we should not be disappointed.

Entrance

This years theme of the exhibition is pepper- the spice of all spices. Why pepper we asked ourselves- well you can find it on every dinner table and it is widely used in perfumery. The exhibition will explore the many different effects of it and many more.

Gallery 1: Opening night

The exhibition includes a collection of limited edition design products, an installation and a series of dinners and workshops all- obviously – inspired by pepper.

Opening night

For this exhibition DesignMarketo’s brief to designers was to create an object inspired by Poivre 23, a scent by maverick French perfume makers Le Labo and renowned French parfumer Nathalie Lorson. These products will be on sale while stocks last. The opening night was a great success with lots of people showing up and entering the world of pepper.

Opening night: Perfume sir?

Come by and get inspired.

Residents of the soon to be available Rosebery Avenue development in Clerkenwell will benefit from a piece by world renowned contemporary artist Marco Brambilla.

Following his piece ‘Heaven & Hell’ that can be experienced in the lifts of The Standard Hotel in NYC’s meat-packing district, Londonewcastle and The Third Quarter have procured a new piece from artist - in his first ever UK project - entitled ‘Materialization/ De-materialization’.

This is a sneak preview for those not fortunate enough to snap up one of the interior-designed duplex penthouse apartments available in Spring 2014.

After an initial meeting over a year ago, last Thursday the super creative girls from Patternity Anna Murray and Grace Winteringham opened the doors of the Londonewcastle Project Space in Shoreditch to launch their first exhibition-cum-festival SuperStripe: “A cultural festival of pattern exploration.”

The title of the exhibition really lives up to its name - as they have transformed the space into a superlative pattern festival. One never normally pays attention to the patterns we come across in our day to day, but this exhibition focuses and celebrates the pattern, raising the status of the humble stripe to SuperStripe status.

The exhibition is a mixture of pieces from the Patternity Studio archive and collaborations with artists throughout the creative industries, including photography, fashion and video.

As you enter, a huge monochrome wall graphic decorates the space and leads you in. It’s a great introduction to the exhibition which underlines Paternity’s principle of the power of Patterns. In the second gallery, along with sculptural items from everyday life on podiums there is the opportunity to do some weaving - fun, original and witty. (weaving is the new sewing - you read it here first).

A short film pulls you into gallery three, but don’t miss the pop-up shop in-between which showcases unique and original collaborations between the brand and fashion, design and homewares specialists.

Overall, the show is spot on and extremely well-timed as Fashion Houses have exploded with pattern this season. The production values are epic - at times you feel like you could be in the V&A not Shoreditch (in a good way).

On top of all of this there’s an incredibloe schedule of events,m workshops and talks planned too. Click here to download.

The show runs to 21st April, daily. Click here for details.

Robert Soning, COO of Londonewcastle took time out to reflect on the changes in the London residential property market recently:

The style and quality of design of new developments has changed dramatically since 2007 - for the better. Developers have to try a lot harder and really get the details right – specification, style, finish and services have all got to be right to appeal to buyers.

The Growth of Residential Services

What has also really changed, is the continuing upwards drive for residential services which used to be the preserve of prime area developments only – I’m not just talking about swimming pools and gyms, but screening rooms, private residents clubs, libraries, business centres, wine storage and 24hr onsite concierge services. When we tabled the idea of the latter for The Henson development in Camden back in 2007, people thought we were mad, but residents really bought into it. We are going to see this trend continue as people continue to work longer hours and travel more, spending less time in their homes while buying more goods online for delivery to their home address.

I think interior design has evolved and become more expressive. Thankfully, most developers have moved on from thinking that every buyer in the world wants an Eames chair.

In terms of demand, it’s well documented that we are currently experiencing a surge in international buyers – with 59% of all buyers of prime stock being International and up to 70% for new build developments in prime areas.

New Markets

The two main difference between now and 2007 is the breadth of new markets that are now investing in London beyond the traditional major European states and selected Far Eastern and Middle Eastern nations.

The breadth of areas that are now being invested in beyond the usual has also changed to encompass areas that would not have previously been considered and this has been driven by quality developments with quality specifications and services that meet the needs of these international buyers and investors.

For example, Russian clients didn’t really featuring back in 2007, but we had a number of buyers from the country at The Henson. Mainland Chinese customers were also not a part of the market, but now represent about 3% with a heavier bias in Canary Wharf. Malaysians have also entered the market in greater numbers – with about 350 off the total 900 or so off plan sales for Circus West, the first phase of Battersea Power Station’s regeneration.

What will be interesting over the next couple of years is if Chinese customers will grow as a percentage of the market – especially outside of their currently favoured areas and price point - and the oft talked about growth of BRIC countries – especially India, where few inroads have been made other than a few sales at the top of the market.

Londonewcastle creates individual developments for people with individual taste. We develop with the domestic owner-occupier market in mind and it’s that vision that our overseas customers want and buy into.

Inside/Outside Space

Outside space is always at a premium, but customers really want to maximise useable space. As a result, ‘Winter / Sky Gardens’ do seem to be in vogue at the moment. They can now be seen at numerous other developments across the capital. We have designed them into our Dollar Bay development in Canary Wharf and it’s easy to understand why they have become popular with architects, developers and planners alike. They provide flexible, year round, usable inside-outside space and amenity. You have the flexibility to use what would traditionally be a terrace for a number of uses – sun lounge, library, study or additional living space.

Customers see the benefit because we are limited to the amount of time we can use outside spaces in this country due to the climate or in a tall building, due to the height, perception of safety and wind. It’s the opposite situation in hot climates, where there is a preference for shaded and/ or climate-controlled spaces to escape from excessive heat, humidity and poor quality air.

In addition to private amenity space, it is also good to provide shared communal spaces in developments where neighbours can relax. It improves the richness of the development and helps to foster communities with the development.

A New London?

Yes, as prime areas have extended it has pushed traditional notions of prime (defined by areas that cost £1,000 per square foot (psf) – Nine Elms, the city fringe (encompassing Old Street and Shoreditch), Paddington, Kings Cross all spring to mind.

Shoreditch is now commanding £1,000psf for quite average developments on the right streets and we have high hopes for our proposed development of the Huntingdon Estate in this area which will deliver a specification and living experience that has not been seen in the area before.

Welcomed Legislation

Legislation is always changing and evolving – from greater community/ public consultation – which we welcome - to moving towards carbon-neutral new developments including thermal efficiency, the use of recycled materials in construction to the energy efficiency heating/ cooling systems and appliances.

Interior Design Evolved

Open plan living has continued as a trend, rather than it being new. I think we are moving away from Scandinavian simplicity to more expressive interior design with a wider palette of seemingly clashing materials that work well when used intelligently together, but admittedly this is in more individual areas and seems to be less prevalent in the ‘greige’ parts of town.

One thing we are really seeing in new developments is demand for as much storage space as possible throughout the apartment – or within the development; for example, the provision of storage boxes in basements can command as much of a premium as car parking spaces.

Technology in the Home

We are going to see the continued increase of home automation – the one thing that hasn’t been linked up yet is bathrooms and kitchens. You will be able to switch on appliances remotely via smart devices, fill a bath and put your fridge in holiday mode for example. There is no reason to believe that you won’t be able to control security and access to your home too as it is already possible to set up profiles for home automation systems today.

I think we are likely to see screens and audio systems being even more integrated into the fabric of the home – multi function screens that act as TV, home hub and communication devices.

The exhibition of wearable art by Superfertile/ Kali Arulpragasam at Maurice Einhardt Neu Gallery, next door to the London Project Space in Redchurch Street, has just closed.

The unisex collection comprises 24 medium and large necklaces of carefully selected stones that have been crafted into accurate colour matched world map indexes. All of the pieces are hand-made, with the utmost precision and execution using gold and silver plated brass as the bases which are then meticulously inlaid with semi-precious stones.

All necklaces will soon be available to purchase online at www.superfertile.com

Another year of Negronis and funny shaped glassware, but what more did Designmarketo deliver at this year’s pop up shop-bar-exhibition-happening for London Design Festival and did the collaboration with Torsten Neeland work out?

The answer to both questions is a resounding YES. Despite a packed (overwhelming?) schedule for LDF2012, this show crammed in the visitors and provided a little something for everyone.

A drink at the bar? Check.

An interesting collection of re-imagined design classics? Check.

A new product innovation that is a practical and cost effective edition to the design-conscious home (in Torsten Neeland’s funky cork tray for www.magazin.com)? Check.

And a back room that is part installation / part found object art / part 90s Parisian nightclub rave? Err… Check!

MINIMALUX have released this fictional, studio staged exhibition film for London Design Festival 2012. The film seeks to create a true-life exhibition experience to be shared at the same moment in time by a globally audience. (And what’s more, you get to view the stunning collection from the comfort of your home/ office.)

The film serves as a launch for three new products in their expanding range (Brass Band, Trio & Pocket Mirror). In addition, new versions of existing items within the present collection are shown (Bulb: Copper, Bulb: Silver, U Candleholder: Copper) and a preview of new Sterling Silver Vase Editions (to be launched and made available during the Frieze Art Fair in October). The products are available to purchase from the Minimalux online store now.

It was directed by independent filmmaker Ladan Anoushfar with a soundtrack based on an original composition by musician Tim Crompton.

MINIMALUX

Minimalux is a London based design brand. Fusing primarily traditional processes of British manufacture with modern ultra simple forms, it produces tableware, desk products, lighting and accessories. Founded by designer, Mark Holmes the business was launched at the 2009 Salone del Mobile in Milan and he was later joined by co-director Tamara Caspersz.

Trading principally online via minimalux.com, it has developed a clear and strong aesthetic identity with products that have been endorsed by both industry and media worldwide.

Watch the video on the Miinimalux site.

With just hours to go before the official opening of Bar Alto and Torsten Neeland as part of London Design Festival at Londonewcastle Project Space this evening, we have been sent some snaps from behind the scenes for what visitors can expect.

In the entrance and in gallery#1 visitors will witness Designmarketo’s latest design collaborations based on the humble/ iconic French tumbler glasses and design products within the bar which have been commissioned by friends and designers. What’s more, you get a chance ot sample some of their great drinks and now almost (in)famous Negronis!

In gallery#2 the baton is passed to Torsten Neeland and a chance to see his latest tableware - including a serving tray and a thermos.

While gallery#3 is passed over to some crazy dudes from France. We’re not sure what to expect from these guys (who have just returned from a mad trip to Detroit), but it’s going to be fun. See you at the bar tonight from 7pm.

More info about the 6-day event from 18th - 23rd September, including opening hours.

Check out the event on Facebook.

This event is listed by The Icon Design Trail 2012 - Icon’s guide to the best of LDF 2012.

There’s no other place like London for discovering innovative, sophisticated, one-of-a-kind design, be it fashion or furniture, jewellery or artwork. The Londonewcastle ethos is all about pioneering great design and the very best emerging talent, so here we share with you a selection of our favourite design stores across the capital, where you can get your hands on something rather special.

SCP Department Store Deserving of our top spot is SCP Department Store, with its flagship store in the heart of Shoreditch. A foray through the warehouse-style shop on Curtain Road uncovers everything from contemporary homeware and artwork to gifts and accessories, with glorious things such as Seletti neon lights, Peter Marigold shelving and Rob Ryan crockery to be found - and that barely scratches the surface. If you’re into Donna Wilson, then even better, because SCP stock an impressive range of her products, from her signature soft toys to especially commissioned, SCP-manufactured furniture. You can buy it all online too and those in West London needn’t worry about travelling east, because SCP has a second store on Westbourne Grove.

Tom Dixon Shop Skip across town to a perennial favourite - the Tom Dixon Shop in its tranquil location at Portobello Dock, Ladbroke Grove. Mainly showcasing the Tom Dixon lighting and furniture collection, the store has some other interesting gems that complement the home range. There are classic Adnet mirrors, embroidered products by social enterprise Fine Cell Work, which trains prisoners in needlework to help their skills and self esteem, Made in Nano tiles and tabletops, infographic homeware textiles by Stuart Gardiner, and Cire Trudon candles for a spot of indulgence, to name a few.

Dover Street Market Whether you’re planning to part with your cash or not, a visit to Dover Street Market is an experience in itself that every fashion fanatic should seek out. Six floors of carefully curated stock, pitching fashion icons such as Alexander McQueen beside lesser known emerging talent, make up the brainchild of Rei Kawakubo, of Commes des Garcons fame. It’s a department store-cum-market-cum-fashion addict’s dream. Be prepared to lose quite a bit of your day, and seek out Rose Bakery on the fourth floor to give your energy levels a delicious boost. We’ll wager you’ll need it!

Aram Store Positioned as ‘London’s best furniture store’, the Aram Store near Covent Garden is a stalwart of the contemporary furniture scene, and family-run too. Zeev Aram, with a little help from Terence Conran’s then-new venture, Habitat, started something of a design revolution in Chelsea back in the sixties, with his first tiny showroom on King’s Road. Today, the Aram Store, in its substantial, architect-designed warehouse space on Drury Lane, brings together innovative, cutting-edge design of the highest quality. The Aram Gallery on the upper floor holds some pretty interesting exhibitions too, with a focus on new techniques, experimental design practice, and fresh talent.

Fab UK

Fab UK Of course, we couldn’t ignore the internet altogether, so we’re throwing a new online design store into the mix. Fab UK is a carefully curated site that has grabbed our attention lately. The team previously known as Llustre, has been taken under the wing of existing design e-commerce business, Fab.com. Now it’s busy signing up some of the most sought after designers around, offering their products at discounted prices, presented as online ‘sales’ for defined periods of time. You have to sign up to be a member, but it’s completely free of charge and a no brainer really if you’re after something truly unique.

Folklore Our wild card, just because it’s brand new, is Folklore in Islington. Opened in January by husband and wife team Danielle and Rob Reid, the company was created on the premise that ‘better living is possible through design’. Well said, we say. Less is certainly more, not only in the design of the shop which features stripped floorboards and upcycled fittings galore, but also in the product range. Folklore sells homeware, lighting, art and lifestyle accessories that have a focus on high quality craftsmanship, be they antique, upcycled, recyclable, or brand new. Environmental sensitivity is another key attribute of their carefully selected ranges. One to watch we think.