Rowley Way - A Brutalist Utopia

London is fortunate enough to have some of the finest examples of post-war architecture, not just in Europe but in the world, mainly due to fact that so much was flattened during the second world war. The Barbican for instance was compltely levelled, from Aldersgate Street to Moorgate and remained a vast plain of rubble until it was later transformed into one of the finest example of Brutalism in the world. What others tend to overlook is just how popular it was during the 60's and 70's, often opposed by many and ridiculed as an eyesore, despite many now being Grade II Listed buldings.

The Alexandra and Ainsworth estate in West London is just another fine example of modernist construction during the Brutalist era. The location for many TV Shows and Films such as The Sweeney and Goodbye Charlie Bright; Despite looking like a backdrop for Logans Run - 'Rowley Way' is without question a very tough place, a genuine working class haven with a large presence of local youths and gangs, albeit with an unusual character. This one just happens to be one of the most iconic examples of post-war vision in modern construction.

Adidas Tech Super.

No your eyes aren't playing tricks on you, these really are Adidas - i know. It seems they've pulled their finger out and actually released a decent trainer that isn't a lazy arsed city type. The Tech Super is for once - a beautiful re-issue, based on the O.G 1992 model made for the Barcelona Olympics. This model is made from Mesh, Nubuck and Suede and is available in 2 colourways.

Fuji X10

I recently picked up the Fuji X10 and i thought I'd share a few pictures with you as I'm sure you will agree - it's a stunning piece of kit, and just as pleasant on the eye as any pair of trainers. Being one of the highest rated compact systems during the last 24 months, collecting four and five stars from every review I've read, it's the newer although smaller brother of the equally fantastic X100. I'm not going to dive into a full length technical review as this isn't the place, but my reasons for choosing the X10 were simple - I needed a small camera with a powerful lens and good image quality that i can carry with me, everywhere i go.

I just became a little bit tired with carrying a huge DSLR around with me as it is more often than not - totally impracticable and an considerable effort. Plus having a huge lump of plastic sat on the dinner table isn't a good look. I don't always set out with the sole intention of taking a picture, every photographer knows you cannot simply choose when that perfect moment reveals itself. I like to have a camera with me at all times, even if i don't use it, as long as it's there with me. I wasn't looking for a "DSLR Killer" per se, but just something that could capture what i needed, wherever i may be - hence my choice for the X10.

The overall design of the Fuji X10 is nothing short of spectacular craftsmanship, as soon as picked it up i knew this was the one - it's not exactly heavy but it feels like it's exceptionally well built. Styled on retro film camera's which seem to litter every issue of Free & Easy - it's typically Japanese, and we all know they genuinely appreciate quality and precision. Made from die-cast magnesium with faux leather finish in slick all-black 'Leica' style, It's actually far too cool to be hidden inside a jacket pocket.

It'll do until i can afford a Leica M9 anyway....

Nike Lunar Force 1

One of the most highly anticipated releases from Nike in recent years and one trainer I've been looking forward to for a long time, the Air Force 1 is already a classic and a staple for any trainer fan - but the lunar takes it into the 21'st century by using the latest fabrics and techniques. The Lunar was built from the inside out using lunarlon cushioning and multilayer upper-body construction to give the wearer superior comfort, breathability and stability. The overall weight is a mere 11.7 ounces, compared to the 17.6 of it's predecessor.

Private White V.C. - Winter '12 Looks.

I recently shot the second half of the A/W12 collection by Manchester based brand - Private White V.C. The first half is available HERE had you missed it. This time I concentrated on some of the heavier winter outerwear styles such as the British millerain-waxed Twin Track and the military grade nylon G1 Bomber - with shearling collar. Styled with British made shirts and cotton twill trousers, it's the complete casual city look, classic, beautiful and carefully constructed to withstand the rough and tumble of a busy urban lifestyle. The location for this shoot was around the flagship store in Lambs Conduit Street, which lies between Holborn and Kings Cross.

The model was Luke Mumford.