GRAND DESIGNS

London is world-famous for its architecture. Not only do the city’s iconic buildings and monuments provide picture-postcard views, but the buildings themselves tell the story of the historic capital; from medieval city walls to modern skyscrapers. In a newly released book, Gilded City, “urban geographer” and academic Duncan A Smith explores London’s 2,000-year history through its medieval and early modern architecture, which shows how the city took shape. The book includes nine walking routes for self-guided tours and has extensive focus on The Royal Exchange, one of the City’s most important and historic architectural marvels. Gilded City: Tour Medieval and Renaissance London by Duncan A Smith, £25, Unicorn Publishing, available from Amazon and Waterstones 

FRESHLY PICKED

It’s always a shame to say goodbye to summer, but Jo Malone London is making the transition that bit easier with its new-season release, which captures the essence of autumn. Inspired by John Keats’ To Autumn and the ‘enchanting appeal of an English orchard, right at the point that summer turns to autumn’ – according to head of global fragrance, Céline Roux – English Pear & Freesia includes a special-edition cologne, curated editions and a new Luxury Candle. Fresh and bright notes of King William pear, freesias and patchouli creates a captivating and instantly classic scent. Discover more in store at Jo Malone London at The Royal Exchange 

SO FRESH, SO CLEAN

Released on 6 September is the first foaming cream cleanser from Malin+Goetz. The cult New York skincare brand introduces your new go-to daily cleanser, which does so much more than just wash the day away. The new 100 per cent fragrance-free formula features jojoba milk, vitamin E and meadowfoam seed oil to lock in moisture. It can be used day and night to gently lift debris and make-up and keep skin soft and hydrated. It’s also a guilt-free purchase, as the new cleanser is vegan, sulphate free, pH balanced, suitable for all skin types and even comes in a recyclable aluminium tube. Foaming cream cleanser, £28, available at Malin+Goetz at The Royal Exchange 

THE WRITE WAY 

Montblanc is paying homage to the golden age of travel and its own history with the launch of the Rouge et Noir Baby collection. The petite “Baby” fountain pens were created in the 1920s, an age before ballpoint and roller pens. The idea was that this 10cm pen could easily slot into a bag with its sleek, leak-proof design. Montblanc’s new Special Edition collection features the classic colourways with an evolved design and contemporary cartridge technology. ‘Evoking the cosmopolitan flair of the 1920s, when travel took off on a grand scale… innovative conveniences such as Montblanc portable pens were de rigueur,’ commented Alessandra Elia, Montblanc managing director of writing culture. ‘By introducing a new interpretation of this historic writing instrument with all the modern advancements, Montblanc celebrates an even deeper passion for travel and mobility today.’ Shop the new collection by visiting Montblanc at The Royal Exchange 

TAKING SHAPE

Get your culture fix this month during Sculpture Week London (12-18 September 2022). Organised by Sculpture in the City in collaboration with Frieze Sculpture and the Mayor of London’s Fourth Plinth Programme, this new initiative celebrates sculpture in the public realm with a series of free walking tours led by City of London Guides. Explore The Royal Exchange’s historic neighbourhood and discover innovative and thought-provoking contemporary sculpture by joining a daily tour from 18:00-19:30 from 13-16 September, or one of two tours on the Saturday and Sunday taking place from 11:30-13:00 and 18:00-19:30. Spaces are limited, so reserve yours by clicking here. 

HIP TO BE SQUARE 

Bespoke designer Tom Davies has his sights on the square when it comes to eyewear trends in 2023. Next year’s collection launched on 1 September at his eponymous store at The Royal Exchange, and the designer is ‘excited to see the local reaction to it.’ 

I’m fascinated with the hexagon shape at the moment,’ he continues. ‘It works so well on so many faces.’ The new collection introduces thirty new styles for men and women in both pure titanium and luxurious Japanese acetate. Pop into Tom Davies at The Royal Exchange to find out more and to discover the full range of services.