Freelance photographer Liz Johnson Arthur has worked for everyone from Sunday Times, Observer magazine, ID, Dazed & Confused, the Face, Fader magazine. Toured with M.I.A, Blur, Seun Kuti and Lady Gaga to name a few, and during all this time her Black Balloon Archive has been growing and growing - with no end in sight.
The gallery was extended into a neighbouring Victorian House space about a year and a half ago, with a real skill in judging the meeting point between the contemporary and the conserved. The architects — 6a — were also responsible for Raven Row near Spitalfields (another favourite place). I'm lucky enough to work part of the week next door, at Camberwell College of Arts. This is about great food and good books. The café — a real haven at breakfast time before work — is run by the nicest team of people, with intertwined relationships to Camberwell. This book, designed by James Langdon, represents the kind of find possible in the bookshop and also the quality of conversation content had, over the best coffee.
Travelling on these uncrowded river buses is such a relaxing way to see the city's landmarks from the Thames. A really quick and lesser-known way to travel from central London to Greenwich, especially on a sunny weekend.
Old townhouse style building set in front of juxtaposing high risers makes for an odd placement, but internally it's a quirky spectacle. One half is dedicated to the sale of antiques - anything from old door handles to hallways lined with hunting trophies. The other half is a relaxed bar and hidden gourmet dining area constructed of similar furnishings [all for sale too]. Even if you don't wish to spend £'s, a walk around the place is advised.
Wonderful place for an indulgent afternoon tea. My favourite room is the millennial pink bathed Gallery room where the walls are covered in a sea of original David Shrigley art. The bathrooms feature beautifully designed individual egg-like pods and there's even a waiter whose sole focus is to serve you caviar.