We were delighted to welcome property developer Gabriel Chipperfield and his guest Harry Weller, creative director of Tracey Emin Studio, for our sixth Long Lunch at The Park.
Co-Founder of Wendover, a property development company specialising in the revitalisation of one-of-a-kind projects, Gabriel Chipperfield oversees aspects of business development as well as design within the company. With a background in Business Management, a foundation degree in Industrial Design and a talent for placemaking, Gabriel has been steeped in a world of design excellence since birth. Asides from the commercial and residential portfolio, he has also ventured into the worlds of retail and restaurants. Around the corner in Bayswater, he is working on a terrace of historic buildings, having also opened a newsagent-cafe and adjacent shops. In Margate, he developed the Fort Road Hotel, across the road from Turner Contemporary, and also built Tracey Emin’s sculpture studio. @gabchipp @wendoverpartners @wellerharry
WHAT ARE THE KEY ELEMENTS FOR A SUCCESSFUL LONG LUNCH?
For me, it’s a complete indulgence; it requires no time or health constraints. It’s also probably why I don’t allow myself to do it that often and reserve them only for special occasions.
WHAT DO YOU VALUE MOST IN A LUNCH COMPANION?
Somebody who is serious and fun in equal measure; with whom you could discuss an important matter but also something very lighthearted and superficial. To me, Harry is the embodiment of that – we always have too much to talk about over a spectrum of topics.
WHAT DID YOU EAT/DRINK TODAY?
Vitello Tonnato, Tuna Tartare, Sweet-corn ribs, King Prawns & a Cheeseburger!
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE – RESTAURANT OR OTHER – YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?
I used to work for Jeremy, many moons ago. I remember he used to say “If anyone comes in and says that they’re a friend of mine, in order to get a table, then they’re probably not my friend!” I always remember that…
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON AT THE MOMENT?
We actually have a nice boutique residential development around the corner on Lancaster Gate. We have spent the last few years converting a series of historic buildings and enhancing the area with small experimental retail endeavours.