As headline sponsors of the RESI Awards 2013, Residential Land would like to say a very well done to all of this year’s winners!

The second annual Property Week RESI Awards was another huge success and saw over 900 property professionals fill the Park Lane Hilton.

RESI Awards 2013 – Attended by over 900 property professionals

The awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise excellence within the residential property industry and celebrate the successes of that year. The event is an extension of the popular annual RESI conference, and has instantly established itself as an equally important networking event for the residential property sector.

This year’s winners included:

• Outstanding Achievement Award – Christian & Nick Candy, Candy & Candy
• Property Manager of the Year – Touchstone
• Letting Agency of the Year – Chesterton Humberts
• Residential Consultancy Practice of the Year – EC Harris
• International Sales Agency of the Year – Knight Frank
• UK Sales Agency of the Year – Savills
• Newcomer of the Year – FizzyLiving
• Residential Financier of the Year – Aviva Investors
• Asset Manager of the Year – Grainger
• Student Accommodation Operator of the Year – UNITE Group
• Development of the Year – Cathedral Group/United House, Clapham One
• Deal of the Year – Battersea Power Station sale
• Small Developer of the Year (less than 1,000 units) – Mount Anvil
• Large Developer of the Year (more than 1,000 units) – Taylor Wimpey
• Landlord of the Year (Registered Social) – London + Quadrant
• Landlord of the Year (Privately Owned) – Akelius
• Residential Personality of the Year – Tony Pidgley, Berkeley Group

As headline sponsors of the RESI Awards 2013, Residential Land CEO Bruce Ritchie presented the award for Residential Consultancy of the Year to EC Harris

Residential Land are big supporters of Property Week and what the RESI conference’s and Award shows have done for the residential market. We are already looking forward to this year’s RESI conference at the Celtic Manor on 12-13 September 2013.

It’s the most important day of your life and creates memories you’ll want to treasure forever. So, there’s no room for slip-ups when it comes to choosing your wedding venue, accommodation and of course, the perfect dress. You should give your choice of location as much thought as you would put in to finding a house to buy or rent in the capital. Here’s our guide to the top five locations for lovebirds in London to get hitched:

Notting Hill (W10)

It’s a place so romantic they made a film out of it; Notting Hill is home to The Belvedere, once a summer ballroom to the Jacobean mansion that was Holland House in the 17th century. It boasts beautiful landscapes and finery with The Bridal Temperley boutique just around the corner. Finish off your perfect day at the Shaftesbury Premier complete with champagne and rose petals scattered on the bed.

Belvedere Restaurant near Notting Hill

Hampstead (NW3)

Kosibah Odile – Designer Wedding Dress

Home to the iconic Hampstead Heath, this will make for a picturesque wedding album. After browsing in Kosibah’s award-winning bridal and evening wear collection, take your vows at Kenwood House, where Lords and Ladies dined in the 18th century. Then be pampered at the luxurious Landmark London Hotel complete with an award-winning restaurant, swimming pool and spa.

The Landmark – Winter Garden Restaurant

South Kensington (SW7)

The Roof Gardens in South Kensington

If you like a taste of the exotic, then The Roof Gardens in South Kensington could be the ideal venue for you. Owned by Sir Richard Branson, it’s situated one hundred feet above Kensington High Street. What could be better than sharing your big day with resident flamingos Bill, Ben, Splosh and Pecks in this vibrant tropical setting? You’d do well to get your dress made by British designer Lindka Cierach, whose fans include Helen Mirren and members of the royal family. To round off your special day enjoy a romantic retreat package at the beautiful Kensington Hotel.

Central London (WC2)

The capital is famous for its shopping and Central London doesn’t disappoint when it comes to brides to be. The Wedding Wardrobe in Waterloo stocks six designers and staff have more than 45 years of experience in the industry between them. Once the dress is sorted, where better to stay on your big day other than the world famous Dorchester Hotel with Mariah Carey, Tom Cruise and The Beatles on the list of previous guests? If you want an unforgettable day then, Somerset House is available for both ceremonies and a venue. Originally a Tudor palace, it overlooks the Thames and has the wow factor for any wedding.

The Dorchester – Mayfair

Shoreditch (E1)

If you want to avoid the typical wedding and go for something more ‘you’ Shoreditch House could be just the place. It comes with a bowling alley and rooftop pool to ensure a fun-filled day and has rooms available to stay in so you can party ‘til you drop. If that’s not for you then how does a stay at The Hoxton Hotel sound? Winner of The Guardian and Observer’s Best UK Hotel Award three years running, it’s urban and unique. Don’t let the big day pass you by without the perfect dress. If it’s quirky and vintage you want, then Angelica Bridal is the place to head for dresses inspired by the 1950s and 1960s with a modern twist.

Following the successful launch of last year’s inaugural RESI Awards, the annual event hosted by Property Week returns in 2013 providing an opportunity to recognise and reward the leading industry players within residential property.

The RESI Awards 2013 will be taking place on the 1 May 2013 at the London Hilton, Park Lane. Last year the event was a complete sell out, and we fully expect this year’s ceremony to be even bigger and better.

In 2012 Residential Land were proud to win Landlord of the Year.  This year we are thrilled to be nominated once again for ‘Landlord of the Year‘ and ‘Deal of the Year‘.

We are also headline sponsors of this fantastic event, and in April we will be holding a pre-awards drinks reception for all the shortlisted nominees.

Below are the names of those who made the RESI Award 2013 shortlist. Residential Land will also be presenting the award of Residential Consultancy Practice of the Year:

Entered Categories

Residential Consultancy Practice of the Year – sponsored by Residential Land

• BNP Paribas Real Estate
• CBRE Residential
• EC Harris
• Jones Lang LaSalle
• Knight Frank
• Savills

International Sales Agency of the Year

• CBRE
• Colliers International
• Jones Lang LaSalle
• Knight Frank
• Savills

UK Sales Agency of the Year

• Assetz
• Beauchamp Estates
• Countrywide
• Jones Lang LaSalle
• Knight Frank
• Savills

Letting Agency of the Year – sponsored by Roomservice by CORT

• Chesterton Humberts
• Countrywide
• Knight Frank
• Young London

Property Manager of the Year

• ARIM
• GVA
• JJ Homes
• Mainstay
• Rendall and Rittner
• Touchstone

Nominated Categories

Residential Personality of the Year – sponsored by Clearview Homes

• Mark Clare, Group Chief Executive, Barratt Homes
• Steve Morgan, Chairman, Redrow Homes
• Tony Pidgley, Chairman, Berkeley Group
• Pete Redfern, Group Chief Executive, Taylor Wimpey
• Gerald Ronson, Chief Executive, Heron International
• Stephen Stone, Chief Executive, Crest Nicholson

Asset Manager of the Year – sponsored by JJ Homes

• ARIM
• Grainger
• Grosvenor
• Realstar Group
• Touchstone
• Young Group

Deal of the Year

• Battersea Power Station Sale
• Berkeley buys Wapping Village
• CBRE buys EA Shaw
• Native Land – Corporate restructuring and fundraising
• Residential Land align with Ivanhoe Cambridge and Apollo in prime central London investment joint venture
• Round Hill buys NIDO from Blackstone

Development of the Year – sponsored by Knight Frank

• Berkeley Homes – Kidbrooke Village
• Cathedral Group / United House – Clapham One
• Darling Associates Architects & Pocket – 77-79 Fermoy Road
• Grosvenor – Grosvenor Crescent
• Mount Anvil, One Housing Group – Central Square – The sanctuary in the city
• Telford Homes – Matchmakers Wharf

Landlord of the Year – Privately Owned – sponsored by Kay & Co

• Akelius Property
• Dorrington
• Grainger
• Howard de Walden
• Residential Land
• Wellcome Trust

Landlord of the Year – Registered Social

• Family Mosaic
• Genesis
• London + Quadrant
• Places for People
• Thames Valley
• Triathlon Homes

Large Developer of the Year (more than 1000 units) – sponsored by CBRE

• Ballymore Group
• Barratt
• Berkeley Group
• Linden Homes
• Redrow Homes
• Taylor Wimpey

Small Developer of the Year (less than 1000 units) – sponsored by Land & New Homes

• Cathedral Group
• Finchatton
• Mount Anvil
• Regal Homes
• Ridgeford Properties
• United House Developments

Newcomer of the Year – sponsored by Hamilton Bradshaw Real Estate

• Essential Living
• Exemplar
• Fizzy Living
• Hearthstone Investments
• McLaren
• The Dolphin Square Foundation

Residential Financier of the Year – sponsored by Jones Lang LaSalle

• Aviva
• Barclays
• Dragonfly Property Finance
• Hearthstone Investments
• M&G Investments
• Omni Capital

Student Accommodation Operator of the Year – sponsored by Campus Development Management

• CRM
• Liberty Living
• NIDO
• UNITE Group
• Victoria Hall

Dick Whittington thought the streets of London were paved with gold. If you rent or own a property in London, unfortunately you know that isn’t true. However, the city’s streets are lined with sculptures just waiting to be discovered. Here are a few examples to kick off your exploration

Notting Hill

There is not much walking involved to see the street art of Notting Hill. Just outside the underground station is the Carnival Elephant by Nadim Karam. Look left above the Waterstone’s to see two more figures by Karam, a wild cat and a travelling carnival goer.

Carnival Elephant by Nadim Karam in Notting Hill

Then on your right is a sculpture that could be mistaken for an over-sized TV aerial, but it is in fact a wind sculpture called The Climber by Peter Logan, made from climbing equipment including ropes, pitons and alpenstock. It represents the viewer’s hopes and dreams at they climb through life’s difficulties.

The Climber by Peter Logan, in Notting Hill

Finally journey north to see the Cock and Bottle pub rat. No they aren’t breaking any health codes, but instead have their own Banksy art on their outside wall. Seeing a Banksy piece is a right of passage for anyone with a flat or house in London and so is worth the 10-minute walk. The pub itself is a great place to grab a drink and boasts being a favourite of both Sienna Miller and Banksy himself.

Pimlico

Start this outdoor art trail at Pimlico station where you’ll be able to see a unique ventilation shaft. Designed by Eduardo Paolozzi (1982) it may not be the prettiest piece, but with a body covered in gears, cogs, insects and more, it successfully captures the feel of industry. You won’t see anything like it at any other station.

Eduardo Paolozzi – Ventilation Shaft in Pimlico

Stroll towards Vauxhall Bridge to see eight different allegorical statues. Fredrick Pomeroy’s Agriculture, Architecture, Pottery, and Engineering all face upstream. While on the opposite side, Alfred Drury’s Science, Fine Arts, Education, and Local Government face downstream.

On the Pimlico side of the river is a bronze sculpture by Henry Moore. Locking Piece was created after Moore was playing with pebbles in a nearby gravel pit.

Henry Moore – Locking Piece in Pimlico

Also here is a sculpture of a graceful dancer in mid-leap. Henry Mooreis a bronze cast sculpture by Enzo Plazzotta that shows dancer David Wall jump to the river. If you get close you can see how the dancer’s ribbon in fact holds the statue up.

South Kensington

The opportunity to walk around Hyde Park is one of the advantages of having a SW7 postcode. For this cultural journey, start at the Prince Albert Memorial which was commissioned by Queen Victoria to remember her late husband. Sitting opposite the Royal Albert Hall, the gilt bronze Prince looks south, surrounded by two symbolic groups of statues representing the Victorian industries and sciences and four continents.

Albert Memorial opposite the Royal Albert Hall

After stopping off for a coffee in the Royal Albert Hall café, continue east towards a treasure trove of art in Knightsbridge. If you go through Hyde Park near the Diana Memorial Fountain is Simon Gudgeon’s Isis, the Egyptian goddess of nature.

Isis by Rolant Dafis in Hyde Park

Outside One Hyde Park, one of the most expensive addresses in the world, there are several pieces you may want to have a look at. Rush of Green by Jacob Epstein shows a family and their dog rushing towards Hyde Park, followed by Pan the god of the wild.

There’s also another Gudgeon piece here called Search for Enlightenment. The artist’s inspiration came when he was on an African mountain and realised ‘the narrowness of consciousness, the vastness of time and the transience of humanity’. It’s up to you to decide what you think the holes in the figures’ heads represent.

Within the lobby of One Hyde Park is Gudgeon’s Dancing with Cranes. In many cultures cranes represent joy, love, and life, and to the artist they also represent the harmony between man and nature.

St John’s Wood, along with a handful of other North West London postcodes, has long been a mecca for American expatriates living in the city. So why is this well-heeled pocket of the capital so popular with transatlantic immigrants looking to rent or buy property? One major draw is the nearby American School in London. Since the school was opened in 1951, a large American – and, in particular, Jewish – community has built up in the area, and the Yankee influence can be felt throughout the neighbourhood – mostly, you might not be surprised to learn, when it comes to food. Follow these tips to get a taste of American life in St John’s Wood.

Panzer’s Delicatessen

Opening a shop with the same name as a type of German tank was a controversial move in the 1950s, but Panzer’s Delicatessen has stood the test of time. The shop’s vast New York-style deli counter is overflowing with cold meats, cheeses and salads, so no wonder it’s a favourite lunchtime stop for local residents. They even deliver their speciality, filled bagels, to the American School, so they must be good. Plus, Panzer’s has adapted its produce over the years to suit their clientele, which is why it’s the place where Americans go to stock up on Chips Ahoy cookies, Babe Ruth candy bars and Betty Crocker cake mixes.

Harry Morgan

If it’s a sit-down dinner you’re after, Harry Morgan prides itself on being the biggest and best-known Big Apple style restaurant in London. Founded by butcher Mr Morgan in 1948, this place is famous for its generous portions and authentic Jewish flavours. The menu is like a who’s who of ‘haimishe’ cooking; gefilte fish, chicken soup, chopped liver, they’re all there – and at more attractive prices than some of the high-end hotspots on the same road. Harry’s also has seating outside for summertime al fresco feasts, and a deli counter for when you’d rather grab a salt beef sandwich with mustard and pickles on the go.

Gail’s

The Jewish connections continue with Gail’s, the St John’s Wood outpost of the bakery chain founded by Tel Aviv-born Ran Avidan and American Tom Molnar. The early risers at Gail’s bake their artisan bread and pastries fresh every morning, enticing passersby with the aromas of potato and rosemary sourdough loaves and Turkish chocolate halva buns. For a distinctly American flavour, opt for the buttermilk hotcakes and maple roasted pears for breakfast, or grab a slice of the pineapple and pecan-infused carrot cake to go with your coiffee (that’s coffee in New Yorker-speak).

Lord’s Tavern

Lord’s Cricket Ground might not seem like a quintessentially American destination, but the Lord’s Tavern is where locals of all nationalities head when they want to watch live sport accompanied by a refreshing pint or two. This site dates back to 1868, but the tavern itself was refurbished in 2011 and is now home to three big screens, plus two outside during summer months. Gastropub food, a range of ales and an outdoor decking area make this a traditional British pub experience, but they keep it international with the sporting selections. Whether it’s the genteel pursuit of cricket, major football tournaments or World Series Baseball you’re after, this is the place for St John’s Wood sports fans.

Hassan rented in our Roland House Property.

As you know I am leaving flat 102 today and I would like to say I really enjoyed the stay in Roland House. All staff members are friendly and always ready to help. I will definitely recommend Roland House to all my family and friends.

Adam rents in our Peony Court property

Residential Land and our building manager Sibel have provided excellent service since they have taken over. The Improvements around the complex have been wide ranging and much appreciated. Our building manager has been more than helpful getting any issues arising with our flat addressed as quickly as possible. Thanks guys.

Residential Land took over as our landlord’s part way through our tenancy last year. The service since has been excellent and our dedicated building manager Sibel has always been extremely helpful, on hand to deal with any issues that do arise and sending appropriate assistance within 24 hours. The overall building maitenance has also been great with redecoration of communal areas and repairs to gates and entrances within weeks of Residential Land taking over, offering a really proactive approach.

Overall a really positive landlord experience.

It’s raining. It’s cold. And it’s generally miserable. London is not the world’s sunniest city, so if you’re looking to buy or rent here, it’s best to learn how you can make the most of those wet weekends. From comfort food to curling up with a book, here’s our pick of how to enjoy rainy days in the city

Books For Cooks – Notting Hill (W11)

One of life’s pleasures when it’s miserable is tucking into a hearty homemade feast. Thing is, we can’t all be natural born Nigellas or Jamies so sometimes our plans for cooking end up with a slightly charred reality… Well, if you head along to Books For Cooks in Notting Hill, not only will you be able to pick out a few cookbooks on how to make the best hot chocolate or soup, but you can join in their cooking classes and learn a new recipe you can whip together when you get home before relaxing in front of some bad TV. Educational AND satisfying. Oh and they have a great cafe too.

Chocodeli – Pimlico (SW1)

While we’re on the topic of comfort, how about a nice cup of hot chocolate. In fact, how about one of the nicest cups of hot chocolates in London, inside a sweet shop, while the rain pours down on the windows? Yes, re-enact your very own hot chocolate commercial at Chocodeli, where you’ll find more than 300 different types of sweets, a lush red interior and a toy train that rides around the ceiling. Here you can drink in your own mug of chocolatey goodness, while staring out into the poring rain and sparing a thought for that man fighting through the grisly weather.

National Art Library – South Kensington (SW7)

Escape from the clouds with a good book. When reading at home it can be hard to concentrate and lose yourself in what you’re reading: too many distractions. So we recommend heading down to the library where there’s nothing but books all around and you can easily escape into the literary world of your choice. If it’s Saturday, why not sit down in one of the world’s most beautiful libraries: the National Art Library. Not only is the reading room filled with green leather desks, chandeliers and wooden bookcases, but there’s a real peaceful atmosphere. Plus if you do want a change of pace, you can wander out into the V&A’s world-class exhibits. Just one thing: you will need to register in advance, but this can be easily done online beforehand and is completely free.

The 606 Club – Fulham (SW10)

Jazz is the kind of music that fits the rain. It’s soft, it’s slow and it’s easy to lose yourself in while the sky storms. So if it’s getting dark and you’re feeling restless but in need of fresh air and a change of scene, head over to the 606 Club and relax listening to some of London’s best musicians. It’s recommended to book if you’re going on Saturday, but Sunday evenings are usually not too busy.

Canal walk – St John’s Wood (NW8)

As a wise man once said, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. So stick on your best mac and go singing in the rain! While it’s not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, walking around London’s canals while it’s pouring down is a very special experience. It’s kind of beautiful to be standing, rain ringing in your ears, the smell of wet concrete and grass and watching the canal splashing and sloshing about. Get off at St John’s Wood tube, go a little south and you can walk along a lovely wet stretch past London Zoo, some very fancy houses and into the heart of Camden Lock. Just don’t forget your wellies. And to have soup ready and waiting at home!

With Valentine’s Day just round the corner, it’s a good time to think about visiting some of the capital’s most romantic spots, from beautiful views in Hampstead to biscuit icing classes in Chiswick. London’s romantic side is also a good thing to consider when deciding where to buy or rent in London: to add a touch of magic into your routine. Whether you’ve been married for years or are in the first flush of love, here are our top romantic picks.

View from Parliament Hill – Hampstead (NW3)

There’s nothing quite like wandering through deserted wooded paths, leaves crunching under feet with that special someone by your side. Hampstead Heath is that wild corner of North London, where deer can be seen running through the fields – a park with acres of countryside to get lost in. And Parliament Hill is the best part to share, one of London’s natural wonders with the whole city spread ahead. Go on a misty day and there’s no more romantic view of our busy city.

Kensington Roof Gardens – High Street Kensington (W8)

Hidden away on the top of a Kensington department store are three magical gardens. There’s the Spanish garden, with fountains and vineyards, a Tudor garden filled with red roses, and a slice of lush English woodland.

Even in the colder months, for that more chic romantic atmosphere, you can enjoy a slick cocktail during the bar’s live music night or a fab meal at the garden’s own Babylon restaurant. This is a great Valentine’s date (just be sure to call beforehand to book in advance).

I Made It Myself – Chiswick (W4)

Obviously the most heartfelt gifts are those that are handmade. But sometimes actually making something sounds easier on paper than it is in practice, unless you want to end up with a mess of paper, glue and disappointment. Enter I Made It Myself, a Chiswick-based crafts workshop that’s there to help out those couples who want to make things but lack the time to do it all themselves. Workshops include biscuit icing, for those with a sweet tooth, sushi making, for those who enjoy fancy raw fish, and gin masterclasses, for those who enjoy lime and hangovers.

La Poule Au Pot – Pimlico (SW1)

No one would deny that the French have this love business down to a ‘T’. And La Poule Au Pot, situated in quaint Pimlico, is a venerable bistro that’s been serving French romance on a plate for more than 50 years. Seclude you and your date away into one of its many nooks and crannies and fall into the heady atmosphere, helped along by fine wine and finer food. Regularly voted “best for romance”, it’s easy to see why. Almost unfair when they have that French connection.

Keats House – Hampstead (NW3)

Now if we agree that the food of love is French, then poetry is definitely love’s language. And who spoke it better than Keats. If you’re thinking ‘who?’ then come visit Keats House for an education into what kind of atmosphere you need to write beautiful sonnets; if you’re thinking ‘ah well of course’, then see for yourself the gardens that inspired Ode to a Nightingale or join in the regular poetry readings. The house itself is a Regency style marvel, featuring a display on Keats’s own sweetheart, Fanny Brawne, who also lived next door. Plus, if you’re on the look-out for love, try out a different kind of speed dating this Valentine’s: 18th century style speed-dating, complete with a full-on masquerade ball. Sure to be full of surprises.