OUR W10

Prix de Lausanne 2012

2012-02-09T09:25:00.000Z

This year Monica was very happy to be asked to commentate on the incredible Prix de Lausanne. We thought we'd share some of the dramatic pictures of the amazing international dance competition for with you as Monica was hugely impressed with the exceptionally high standard of the dancers performing.

And some photographs from the final day of the competition...

Photographs courtesy of Gregory Batardon

Harlequin, suppliers of dance floor technology who were very helpful in kitting out the Golborne Place studio with a ballet mat for our Everybody Ballet students, sponsored the making of some beautiful video blogs. Take a look here to see some behind the scenes glimpses and share the emotional journey of the candidates.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-19T09:43:00.000Z

It's been a while since our last blog and so much happened! First of all we were very sad to say goodbye to the lovely Meg who has been our receptionist at Golborne Place since the summer. We had a festive gathering with plenty of champagne and chocolate brownies to wish her well and it was nice to see a few of our clients join us to bid her farewell.

I think we all enjoyed a well deserved Christmas break as the team worked so hard last year to make sure Golborne Place is as welcoming, professional and as enthusiastic as ever! We are very excited to start 2012 with an updated and, if I do say so myself, gorgeous website. Take a look www.golborneplace.com!

We have also opened up more opportunity for rentals in the Golborne Place studio and treatment room. Therapists and teachers can apply to use our space by emailing amy@golborneplace.com or calling us on 020 8969 8907. Here are some pictures if you're looking for a new place to bring clients.

The consultation room

Our teachers enjoying a joint work out!

Our Gyrotonic towers in use

Moni and Tomoko working hard

Our pilates reformers

A pilates class in the studio

The treatment room

Our reception and chill out area

On a personal note I'm thrilled to add to my role here at Golborne Place. In December I found out I had passed my Holistic Massage Therapy course with the Bodyology School of Massage.

I am now qualified to give Holistic Massage and Deep Tissue treatments so I hope you'll see even more of me at Golborne Place!

Everybody loves Everybody Ballet!

2011-11-25T15:47:00.003Z

For those of you who don't already know, every week we here at Golborne Place have the pleasure of working with Isabel McMeekan and her Everybody Ballet classes. Isabel is a former First Soloist with the Royal Ballet and has danced leading roles in many of the classical ballets we all know and love.

Everybody Ballet classes are friendly and unintimidating, making them enjoyable for all ages. Whatever skill level, Isabel's classes are designed based on what works best for the individual. Whether just starting out, already skilled or perhaps wanting to transform your body to the best it can be, Everybody Ballet is an enjoyable solution. Or if your just looking to try something new Isabel's classes are fun and inspirational, a work out you can look forward to!

Everybody Ballet also has two others teaching ballet here at Golborne Place. Hubert and Karis are both qualified, experienced and most of all inspirational!

For more information on Everybody Ballet please visit Isabel's website: www.everybodyballet.com

or call Golborne Place on 020789698907

We look forward to hearing from you!

Help support a worthy cause..

2011-10-29T12:23:00.001+01:00

The Earth Education Project is a charity dedicated to empowering women from the La Chureca Community in Nicaragua. Central Americas largest open air rubbish dump.

They believe that using art and creativity can help educate and empower the people of this community, and give them a brighter future. We here at Golborne Place give The Earth Education Project our full support and would love to spread awareness of such a worthy cause.

We carry a range of greeting cards and gift bags from the charity, made by the women of Nicaragua. Made with 100% recycled hand made paper and recycled aluminium these cards are hand painted and all unique.. Not to mention gorgeous!

Check out their website for more information: www.eartheducationproject.org

Nora Monkman...

2011-10-25T13:15:00.000+01:00

Some of our regulars may remember Nora's beautiful collection of dresses and blazers when we opened in May 2009. For those of you who don't, Nora Monkman is an Argentinian designer working with fabrics, clothing and graphic design. She has a beautiful home and studio in Buenos Aires and we have some gorgeous photographs from her place...we think it would fit right in on Golborne Road!

Here is Nora's working studio, I'm so jealous!...

Below is Nora's showroom exhibiting her clothing line, fabrics and stationary...

Nora designs our calendars for Golborne Place so if you would like a small piece of Nora's work please ask at reception as we still have some left. Nora will also be designing our 2012 calendar.

Nora's website: http://www.noramonkman.com.ar/

Images credited to: Casa Chaucha

Fitness with style..

2011-10-13T10:10:00.001+01:00

Our new Freddy collection has arrived! Come into Golborne Place and have a look at the fab new Art of Movement Fitness Wear for men and women.

Welcome back Moni!

2011-09-06T09:17:00.004+01:00

We are saying a big welcome back to Monica, founder and Director of Golborne Place, after a well-deserved extended summer break she's now back in the studio and teaching. Moni certainly made the most of her summer holidays, first of all indulging in some down time from her busy schedule in the studio Moni made a trip back to her home town of Bilbao in Spain to spend time with family before jetting over to Morocco to the beautiful Kasbah Bab Ourika, a stunning hotel perched on a hill top of the Ourika Valley. With 360 degree panoramic views of the stunning landscape who could fail to feel at peace here? This place gets the Golborne Place stamp of approval!

Next stop after Morocco was Rome where Moni met up with Elisa Gonzalez Fernandez, once a Pilates teacher at Golborne Place Elisa now runs her own studios in Bilbao called ‘Gyrotonic Bilbao’. Not just here for fun the ladies soon got to work on expanding their Gyrotonic knowledge with Paul Horvath, brother of Juliu and a couple of old friends Ines and Leire.

From left to right: Ines, Leire, Paul Hovarth, Elisa and Moni

For a link to Elisa's studio:

http://www.gyrotonicbilbao.com/index.php#

And to find out more about Kasbah Bab Ourika:

http://www.kasbahbabourika.com/index.html

Notting Hill Carnival!

2011-08-30T18:31:00.002+01:00

As I'm sure you all know, Notting Hill Carnival was this past weekend. I hope everyone got a chance to join in on the celebrations. Whether you were there to dance and enjoy the music, or to treat yourself to any of the delicious food lined up and down the streets.. the carnival did not disappoint! Now we just have to look forward to next year!

An apple a day keeps the doctor away...

2011-07-27T12:40:00.001+01:00

It's a gorgeous day on Golborne Road! No rain and the sun in shining! I thought I'd post some pictures of the yummy Fruit and Veg lined up and down Portobello Road.. it's easy to keep healthy with so much fresh produce to choose from.

..and the bread looks delicious too!

Farewell Rachael....sad face...

2011-07-05T12:10:00.000+01:00

The time finally came when we had to wave goodbye (or 'See you later!' because we don't like goodbyes) to our lovely receptionist Rachael Moss last week.

Rachael is off back to her home country of Canada this month to continue her studies and we really feel like we're losing an angel. Rachael has been such a great part of the Golborne Place team since she arrived at the end of 2010 and we all found it very hard to let her go!

Here are a few snaps of the farewell drinks party we had last Friday in the studio...

Fabulous and famous with Kell Skott!...

2011-07-05T11:57:00.000+01:00

Our neighbours across the street on Golborne Road are very kindly giving a free hair make-over to one very lucky Londoner this coming September. Kell Skott, very popular with the locals of Notting Hill has been voted No.1 salon in the area as well being voted the UK's favourite SP salon as voted by Vogue.com readers....not bad going.

To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous offer go to "Competitions" on http://www.facebook.com/KellSkottHaircare

Upload a recent photo of yourself, and say why you deserve to win.

Share your entry and start collecting as many votes as possible!

The winner will visit the Kell Skott Haircare salon in September for a pampering hair make-over which includes colour, cut, blow dry, and a goodies bag! Not only this but you will have your glamourous photograph featured in Grove Magazine.

Good luck everyone!

Golborne Road Festivities!

2011-06-14T12:56:00.000+01:00

The Golborne Road Festival is quickly approaching as we enter the middle of June. The Festival on it's third year running will be coming on Sunday the 17th of July this year.

The Golborne Road Festival like previous years will be full of entertainment for everyone to join in on. There will be live music, children's entertainment, sports, face painting, games and a wide variety of food from around the world.

Make sure to stop by and help celebrate local life on Golborne Road!

A little bit of history on Golborne Road..

2011-06-01T12:56:00.000+01:00

Today is the 2 year anniversary of the opening of our dear Golborne Place!! It has really flown by but we have loved every minute of being part of the Golborne Road local community. We are still very much the newcomers in the area as Golborne Road has a long history according to our research! It has changed dramatically over the years; starting out as part of the Great Forest of Middlesex in the 1500's, then becoming farmland in the eighteenth century and finally the development of shops and cafes began which helped form the vibrant Golborne Road we know today!

From the antiques, art, clothing, unique little boutiques, cafes and restaurants to the market stalls Golborne Road has become the little gem within Notting Hill.

The filming of Notting Hill has led Golborne Road to being an ideal and sought after film location for many movies and television sets as well as accentuating the trendiness and the artistic and creative atmosphere of the area.

Our fave spots to visit on the road are Golborne Deli for fresh juice on a summers day, Cafe O'Porto for a strong hit of caffeine when we're opening at 8am and of course Lisboa Patisserie for the tasty pastries. Not to mention Bazaar and Phoenix for a bit of retail therapy!

We hope to continue taking care of the local tribe of Golbornites with our Pilates and Gyrotonic classes as well as our large range of therapeutic therapies for many more years to come.

Last chance to see the World's great love story...

2011-05-12T08:16:00.000+01:00

The Royal Ballet live at the O2.

The Royal Ballet is thrilled to announce that it will perform Kenneth MacMillan's timeless classic Romeo and Juliet at the O2 in June 2011. This will be the first time the world-renowned ballet company has performed in a UK arena and promises to be a ballet spectacle to remember.

We’ve been informed by our friends at The Royal Ballet that the tickets are going fast for their four live performances at the O2! Make sure you get your tickets soon as it may be your last chance to experience this unique event.

The Royal ballet will be performing Kenneth MacMillan's timeless classic Romeo and Juliet in June. This will be the first time the world-renowned ballet company has performed in a UK arena and promises to be a spectacle to remember.

The stellar cast of Royal Ballet dancers includes Carlos Acosta, Tamara Rojo, Mara Galeazzi, Edward Watson, Alina Cojocaru and Johan Kobborg dancing the roles of the famous star-crossed lovers.

Edward Watson

Watch the trailer!

http://www.roh.org.uk/video/index.html?bcpid=1733261711&bclid=1740131613&bctid=901472266001

Dates and Cast Information:

Friday 17 June 2011, 7.30pm
Tamara Rojo and Carlos Acosta

Saturday 18 June 2011, 2.00pm
Mara Galeazzi and Edward Watson

Saturday 18 June 2011, 7.30pm
Alina Cojocaru and Johan Kobborg

Sunday 19 June 2011, 3.00pm
Tamara Rojo and Carlos Acosta

Tickets are available from:
O2 Box Office 0844 856 0202 or online at www.theO2.co.uk
See Tickets 0871 230 0010 or online at www.seetickets.com

Tickets £10 | £25 | £35 | £48 | £60 (+ bkg fee)

Interview with our Director Monica in West London Living...

2011-05-11T09:27:00.000+01:00

Find out about Moni's life-changing moments, performing at the Opera House and guilty pleasures...

http://www.westlondonliving.co.uk/my-west-london-life/monica-zamora

Moni in Romeo and Juliet

A little bit of Morocco on Golborne Road..

2011-05-09T13:23:00.000+01:00

I came across all of these beautiful Moroccan artefacts displayed outside of Fez while walking down Golborne Road this afternoon. There was lots of beautiful ceramic Moroccan pottery as well as these exquisite colourful little mosaic tables!

Spring flowers...

2011-05-04T14:26:00.000+01:00

The Floral Studio on Portobello is one of my favorite places to visit during the week. They always have such a beautiful selection of bright and colorful flowers to choose from and bring back to Golborne Place!

A Weekend of Royal Wedding Festivities..

2011-04-28T19:24:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow marks one of the biggest days of the year 2011 all over the globe with the celebration of the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The Royal Wedding will be taking place at Westminster Abbey. Following the wedding ceremony the newlyweds will be taking part in a carriage procession back to Buckingham Palace, where the public will be able to try to catch a glimpse of the extravagant event.

There will also be a variety of royal wedding events throughout the weekend from fancy dress parties to art exhibitions to take part in, plus local special screenings of the ceremony throughout Notting Hill!

To the east...

2011-04-28T13:44:00.000+01:00

The lovely Cloth Shop on Portobello have their new window for the spring/summer and it looks gorgeous. Loving the eastern themed parasols...

Portobello Street Art...

2011-04-27T17:59:00.000+01:00

This piece of wall art appeared over the sunny bank holiday weekend. I think it’s fab but such a shame it’s torn! If you’re in the area go and take a look at our local 'black spot'!...

For your information: herbal remedies....

2011-04-15T09:53:00.001+01:00

We were visited by our lovely neighbour from Bazaar this week who had come across some interesting info on the latest changes happening in the herbal remedy world.

Here are some of the facts...

After 30th April 2011 a legislation will be brought in by the EU that requires the UK and other countries to close the legal loophole that allowed unlicensed herbal remedies to be sold. This will have a number of different effects:

-To obtain registration the manufacturer must show that the product is made to certain standards

-Registered products must show a clear indication of what the product is for

-The manufacturer will supply information on how to use the product safely

-A product can only be registered if an equivalent product has been in use for 30 years, 15 of which have to have been in Europe. This means Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs won’t get registration easily and developing new products will be problematic.

-It is predicted that the new legislation will limit consumer choice and it will be become more difficult to obtain useful but less popular herbs.

For more information on this matter and to sign a petition against this regulation go to www.savenaturalhealth.eu

Zikzira...

2011-04-14T11:03:00.000+01:00

We were very proud and happy to see one of our dedicated regulars in the March edition of Gig magazine. Fernanda Lippi, who has been doing Gyrotonic with us for some time now, is also a very talented choreographer and dancer. Fernanda runs Zikzira Physical Theatre with her husband and film-maker Andre Semanza.

There’s a great write-up of their amazing live pieces and feature-length films. Zikzira works across multiple artistic genres including theatre, film, visual art, music and dance. We are very happy that the inspiring Fernanda is part of Golborne Place!

For further info take a look at their website www.zikzira.com.

The sky is blue and the sun is shining...

2011-04-09T15:22:00.000+01:00

Now that spring has arrived so has the new Freddy Spring Collection at Golborne Place!

Freddy is a Sloungewear Company based in Italy that was created by Carlo Freddi in 1976. The line consists of a versatile range of dance and exercise clothing ready to wear 24/7 all day and everyday.

‘Art of Movement’ is Freddy's philosophy. With all Freddy Products, Art of Movement has three essential characteristics: Performance, Wear-ability and Desirable Aesthetics. Freddy is a way of life that is relaxed but seductive, laid back but ready for action and yet comfortable but high performance.

With a new collection means a new sale! Come stop by and view the new Freddy Spring Collection as well as a 25% off sale!

Easter Party!...

2011-04-05T09:34:00.000+01:00

Our fave online magazine, West London Living, is hosting a glam Easter Party. There will be a complimentary cocktail awaiting our arrival and delicious canapes courtesy of The Lonsdale, the venue of choice for this party evening!

Singers Megan Goodwin, Jelone and Daniela Brooker are the up and coming stars providing the entertainment so make sure you keep Tuesday 12th of April free and get your tickets soon as the tickets are limited! It starts at 6.30pm and as it’s a school night it will be a midnight finish.

Megan Goodwin

Jelone

Daniela Brooker

Venue: The Lonsdale, 48 Lonsdale Rd, Notting Hill, W11 2DE

Date: 12th April

Where to get tickets: Lucy.land@westlondonliving.co.uk; 020 7727 6978

Ticket price: £10

Adult Ballet Classes at Golborne Place...

2011-03-30T17:13:00.000+01:00

The team here at Golborne Place is delighted to welcome Isabel McMeekan, founder of Everybody Ballet and Former First Soloist with The Royal Ballet, to teach Adult Ballet Classes for the summer term at Golborne Place.

Isabel will be available on Mondays from 2pm to 5pm and private tuition will be £75.

Classes will commence on Monday 11th of April.

Monica Zamora, the founder of Golborne Place and Former Principal with Birmingham Royal Ballet is especially delighted to reunite with Isabel and to bring this unique art form to all at the studio!

For any information and to book a slot please give us a call on 02089698907 or email us at golborne@golborneplace.com.

Hello paradise, what would you like?...

2011-03-24T08:51:00.001Z

As some of our lovely Golborne Place clients know when I’m not helping to run the Golborne Place Studios I’m in my own studio painting, drawing and sculpting. My work is showing in a fabulous (if I do say so myself) group show in West Hampstead this week.

Artists include the renowned Japanese artist Miho Sato, graduate of the Royal Academy Jill Mason, current RCA students Dexter Dymoke, Grant Foster and two of The School of Saatchi’s finalists Samuel Zealey and Matt Clark as well as abstract painter Aidan Doherty.

If you fancy taking a peek the show will be open this weekend; Saturday and Sunday 12-5pm. The Kingsgate Gallery is at 110-116 Kingsgate Rd, NW6 2JG.

'If you see something, say something', Grant Foster

The private view was a great success and thank you to everyone who managed to make it down.

A Century of Music...

2011-03-15T16:28:00.000Z

The Portobello ReCollection is a must see for all music lovers. It is situated towards the end of Portobello Road leading up to Golborne Road and is the part I look forward to most on my daily walk to Golborne Place. You can’t help but look at it, with its artistic presence lying across the 100 metre long wall just waiting to be admired.

The Portobello ReCollection, which is often referred to as the “Wall of Sound” displays a large selection of records starting from the 1910s all the way to the 2010s. The wall of sound chronologically takes you through a 100 year journey of the music most significant to this area.

You can walk by here everyday but still seem to always find a new record to intrigue you, new art to inspire you and gain a deeper understanding into the history and heritage of the area.

For more information on the Portobello ReCollection visit:

http://www.portobellorecollection.com/

An artist in the family...

2011-03-05T12:12:00.001Z

Benji Vize Harrington, our newest member of the Golbonre Place team, was very happy this week as his younger brother, Joseph Harrington, was awarded 'Artist of the month' by the AACG (Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass).

Buttress

Escarpment

Joseph has developed a unique casting technique that he calls "lost ice". This process allows him to "harness the movement and transience of ice." In his latest body of work he aims to represent landscapes and structures within them. Joseph says "I focus on Britain’s rugged coastlines and its rural countryside, looking at its erosion as a fascinating spectacle of discovery and generation of form".

Meld

For more information on Joseph's work see his website: http://www.josephharrington.co.uk/index.html

Party, party, party!...

2011-02-21T18:13:00.001Z

Jericho House along with dancers from the Royal Ballet, the American choregrapher Austin McCormick and his assistant Laura Careless of Company XIV invite one and all to Wilton's Music Hall for a Masque Ball!

The evening is to raise money for the theatre company Jericho House and to provide a platform to explore the dynamics between dance and drama. The idea is to re-create as closely as is entertainingly possible the Masque Ball of the 17th century.

Guests will enjoy a Baroque inspired feast followed by a performance that weaves through their tables. It's an incredible opportunity to be up close and personal with the artists. There will also be live music on period instruments.

Tickets £175 / Tables £1,800 (12 pax)

R.S.V.P Leonora Wood at leo@jerichohouse.org.uk

07876 403 648

Monday, Monday....

2011-02-14T12:40:00.000Z

It's a beautiful Monday morning here on Golborne Road today. Spring is in the air and the street is full of wonderful trinkets and unusual furniture. The perfect day for a wander down the Golborne Road...

Happy Valentines!!...

2011-02-14T11:07:00.000Z

We are very happy to be selling some beautiful handmade cards by women in Nicaragua this week. We have some sweet Valentine's cards but they could be used for any special occasion. The women who makes these cards are living on one of Latin America's largest rubbish dumps, La Chureca. All the cards are made by recycling waste paper by hand with The Earth Education Project.

The women are learning skills to build their own businesses in their community. We hope that by purchasing one of these cards you will be empowering women in one of the world's poorest countries to develop new skills and in turn build a future and lift their families out of poverty.

For information on this project go to: www.eartheducationproject.org

For all the ballet lovers...

2011-02-04T13:02:00.000Z

It seems we are having a ballet themed week for the beginning of February!

The Finals of the Prix de Lausanne 2011 will be broadcast live on the web this year.
Don't forget the date and time: Sunday the 6th February starting at 3pm CET.

If you have never heard of this event the Prix de Lausanne is an international competition for young dancers of all nationalities aged 15 to 18 who are not yet professionals.

Here's the link:
http://lausanne.streamakaci.com/

And if the amazing dancers inspire you to move take a look at the Everybody Ballet post below.

Everybody Ballet!...

2011-02-01T10:06:00.003Z

A very good friend of Golborne Place, the beautiful Isabel McMeekan, has been passing on her ballet knowledge to the people of W10 and giving those who thought they could never dance the spirit and ability to enjoy movement and improve mind and body.

Everybody Ballet provides ballet classes for anyone and everyone, no previous training is necessary, just the enthusiasm to do something different.

Isabel creates carefully structured classes drawing upon elements of classical ballet combined with specific stretching and core strengthening work, leaving the body and mind feeling worked, invigorated and extended.

“Everybody Ballet has transformed my life and is in the process

of transforming my body! Isabel’s teaching makes the classes fun and

inspirational. No one should be nervous about starting ballet at

any age or shape….pure and simple.” Clare Beresford

For more info and to get involved check out the Everybody Ballet website....http://www.everybodyballet.com/

Introducing Benji Vize Harrington...

2011-01-31T11:28:00.001Z

We are very happy indeed to be welcoming Benji to our team at Golborne Place!

Benji is starting this week and joining our very experienced group of Pilates teachers here.

Formerly a student of the London Contemporary Dance School, Benji has since gone on to perform as a dancer in many stage and television shows. He then went on to become a fitness instructor teaching dance, aerobics and Pilates and worked abroad in Italy for 6 years combining and developing his experience. Since his return to the UK he has completed a year’s Pilates teacher training course with Alan Herdman and is currently working with rehab, general fitness and fine tuning the professionals.

Benji’s hours in the studio are:

Thursdays: 2pm - 8pm

Fridays: 5pm-8pm

Ahh Monday...

2011-01-31T11:14:00.000Z

Monday morning at the Golborne Place studios and clinic involves catching up on emails and voicemail, preparing the Pilates and Gyrotonic studios for the week ahead, playing with the visual merchandising of our gorgeous ‘Freddy’ clothing line and filling the shelves with teas and the bowls with fruits...a few snaps from a chilly Golborne Road this morning...

I love the coconut heads collection at the adorable fruit market on Golborne Road where I picked up a huge bag full of clementines this morning. Yum.

And these mini mini chairs outside Arbon Interiors made me smile...

Refer a friend...

2011-01-27T16:25:00.001Z

We love our clients here at Golborne Place very much and to thank them for being such a pleasure to teach and work with AND to help spread the word of Golborne Place we have opened our ‘Refer a Friend’ scheme....

Next time you’re in the studio please take one of our ‘Refer a Friend’ postcards from reception. Pop your name and the name of the person you want to share Golborne Place with on the card and receive 50% off your next class or therapeutic treatment! Not only that, in doing so you will be giving your friend a very special gift too: 50% off their first class or treatment!...Now don’t say we never spoil you!

2011 is the year of positive emotion. So spread that positivity with the gift of body and mind conditioning!

"The mind, when housed within a healthful body, possesses a glorious sense of power." Joseph Pilates 1939

2011-01-26T18:59:00.003Z

Many people think that Pilates is a recent fad, made popular by Hollywood stars. However, it originated from an exceptionally forward thinking man called Joseph Pilates who was born in 1880 in Dusseldorf, Germany.

As a child Pilates suffered from Asthma, Rickets and Rheumatic fever. His illnesses prompted him to study both Eastern and Western forms of exercise and to become a competent skier, diver and gymnast. Pilates moved to England in 1912 where he earned a living as a boxer and self-defence trainer for the police force.

In 1914 after World War I broke out, Pilates was interned in a camp for enemy aliens in Lancaster. Whilst he was interned Pilates taught self-defence and boasted that his students would come out of the camp stronger than ever before. Pilates was transferred to another camp on The Isle of Man where his interests in health led him to assist the sick. Becoming something of a nurse he designed exercise apparatus for immobilized patients by attaching springs to hospital beds after being told 'You can do anything you like with them, as long as they stay in bed". Working with many internees suffering from illness and incarceration he rigged the springs from the beds to the bed posts to create an exercise apparatus (hence the appearance of the 'cadillac' that you see today in Golborne Place).

His observations and work here were to form the foundation for his style of body conditioning that are now popular today and also very efficient. Once the war was over he returned to Germany to continue his work in devising a physical programme. In 1925 the German government asked Joseph to start training the German army, but instead, he emigrated to New York. On the boat trip to America he met his future wife Clara and together they established a studio in New York to teach and share his knowledge and fitness programs.

Pilates’ studio quickly became popular with the dancing community as it offered them a chance to recover from injuries and improve and strengthen their technique. However it wasn't until the late 80s when the Pilates boom began. Joseph called his approach to fitness and well-being 'Controlology' but the public took on the name of 'Pilates'.

At Golborne Place our clients sing the praises of their journey with Pilates. Offering an intelligent movement the Pilates exercises gives the body strength, alignment and tone assisting in the recovery from injuries and remedying backaches, RSIs and poor posture.

ROOM London...

2011-01-18T09:35:00.003Z

One of our dedicated Pilates students, Aideen Morgan, has recently joined the team at ROOM in Shoreditch and they had their first exhibition opening last week under her leadership. I managed to pop down to see the show of recent graduate Diana Taylor; if you’re in the Hoxton area make sure you take a peek...

'Dropping', Diana Taylor

http://www.roomartspace.co.uk/

Hello 2011!...

2011-01-17T09:06:00.001Z

We’re back in the Golborne Place Studios and Clinic after a lovely Christmas and New Years break. We’re fully refreshed to take on all that 2011 has to offer. If you need an energy boost, a kick start to a your healthy new year’s resolution or would simply enjoy being pampered give us a call!

020 8969 8907 - golborne@golborneplace.com

A sprinkling of Christmas on our doorstep...

2010-12-15T12:57:00.000Z

Our homemade wreath is looking rather cute on the Golborne Place studio door...

Christmas flower power...

2010-12-14T13:01:00.001Z

Buying flowers for Golborne Place is one of my best jobs because it means I get to visit one of my favourite places in the W10 area! The Floral Studio around the corner on Portobello always has a beautiful range of flowers and today was no exception. The shop smelt divine and really got me in the mood for Christmas!

A Ballet good Xmas...

2010-12-08T18:08:00.000Z

There is excitement in the Golborne Studios after hearing the news there is to be 4 performances of Romeo and Juliet by The Royal Ballet at the O2 arena next June! As a few of the teachers here at Golborne place are ex-Royal Ballet dancers you can imagine their anticipation! And not only that prices start at £10! Best Christmas present?!...Well at least after a Golborne Place Christmas voucher!

Xmas is the time for giving...

2010-12-07T15:36:00.000Z

I’ve just been making some cute Christmas vouchers here at Golborne place. We got some sweet felt snowflakes. Take a look...

What a nice idea to buy a massage, acupuncture session or class of Pilates/Gyrotonic for a Christmas prezzie!...(or even botox!)

Hello Friday!!...

2010-12-03T16:45:00.000Z

Yes it’s Friday again...hoorah!...and the vintage market on Portobello and Golborne Road are looking as exciting as ever. It’s so so cold outside and the snow has been falling in London town for the past few days making it look magical for the Christmas season. Here are a few of my favourite finds from the market today...

It's a Bazar!...

2010-12-02T11:17:00.002Z

On my hunt for some reclaimed wood I ventured down the lovely Golborne Road this week. Unfortunately I have not yet found the perfect piece of wood in which to create a Christmas sign for our window at Golborne Place but I did have time for a snoop around Bazar. I love, love, love this shop and we already have some of Bazar’s beautifully battered looking wooden mirrors in GP from there. Here are some of the wonderful things I saw...

Beautiful signage...

2010-11-26T16:27:00.000Z

December is nearly upon us and with it comes the Christmas season! All of the beautiful Golborne Road antique shops have been inspiring me with their gorgeous vintage wooden objects and as a result I’ve decided to make our very own GP ‘Merry Christmas’ sign for the window. I’ve just been getting some ideas and here are some beautiful examples...

All I need to do now is find some reclaimed wood and buy some paint!!

Christmas is coming...

2010-11-24T13:18:00.003Z

It’s been a busy week here in the GP studios and I’ve not had a chance to wander around the W10 area and see what's going on....also it’s a bit nippy outside and oh so cosy in here! So I’ve been doing some thinking about the Golborne Place Christmas decs for this year and came across some beautiful retro inspirations...

Images sourced in order from: lotushaus.typepad, marthastewart.com, unknown, Yellow Owl, movemodern.com, unknown and farm3.

Friday!!!

2010-11-19T17:58:00.002Z

Friday has arrived and it's officially my favourite day in the W10 area! (In fact it's my favourite day anywhere!) Portobello is jam packed with vintage goodies, naughty treats and fascinating characters! Likewise good old Golborne Road comes alive on Friday...I can hear the market boys outside hustling as I type. Here are a few of my fave vintage finds from today...

Mini W10...

2010-11-18T08:55:00.001Z

Wandering around the W10 area this week I spotted these beautiful dolls houses outside of the interesting and eclectic 'Last Place on Earth' at 307 Portobello Rd. The very talented TJ created these beautiful 'Mini Worlds' as she likes to call them and I think they're just divine!

Say 'hello!' to Freddy...

2010-11-15T13:33:00.003Z

It’s a beautiful misty morning here on Golborne Road and we are very excited about introducing a new clothing range to the GP studios! Freddy is a dance and exercise clothing range and their clothes look gorgeous and feel amazing. Most of all I love their VM; here’s a few piccys from the notebooks they kindly gave us...take a look...

And who knew paper could be so pretty...

Here are some of the lovely ‘Freddys’ in our waiting area. Come in to try them on!

Brightening up my day!

2010-11-10T11:09:00.000Z

It’s another nippy one outside today but inside Golborne Place it's nice and cosy!

Moni and I have been doing research to get ideas for our new vintage style shop sign and lighting but I got carried away looking at all the beautiful lamps! Here are some of my faves...

Images sourced, in order of display, from: ‘quintessential duckegg BLUE, Factory20, junkmarketstyle, Factory20 (x2), Modern50, Moxie Thrift and Modern 50 (x2).

Things we love about Golborne Road...

2010-11-10T08:38:00.002Z

The lovely guy who lives above Golborne Place, Bryan, kindly brought in a copy of last weeks ‘Time Out’ magazine to show us we made it on to the ‘Top 7 things to do on Golborne Road’. How sweet-thanks Bryan!

Winter has arrived on Golborne Road...

2010-11-09T17:44:00.002Z

I managed to get out yesterday morning to spread the word of Golborne Place! I try once a week to post flyers in the area and on my travels I get to see some beautiful things! Unfortunately it was a dull grey day but the residents of W10 are in defiance of the cold wintery weather and brightened up my day! Here are some pics from my Monday morning stroll...

A sunny bright doorway, cute plant pot crates outside Kokon to Zai on Golborne Road, the beautiful window of The Cloth Shop round the corner on Portobello and a very sad and wet looking chair in the middle of someone’s front garden. I just couldn’t resist taking a picture!

So easy on the eye...

2010-11-05T14:43:00.001Z

On my way to a private view on the South Bank last night I was flicking through the Evening Standard on the tube and recognised a very handsome young man on the review pages! Rupert Pennefather, a dancer with the Royal Ballet and one of Monica’s Gyrotonic clients, was getting rave reviews for his role as Aminta in Frederick Ashton’s ‘Sylvia’. Well done Rupert!

2010-11-04T11:05:00.005Z

Here are a few of our lovely teachers playing with their Pilates and Gyrotonic toys for a recent photoshoot! Left to right: Simi, Lucy, Tomoko, Monica.

Lucy and Moni get the giggles using some of the Pilates equipment!

And here is the lovely Tomoko enjoying her Gyrotonic! Tomoko is not only a very experienced Gyrotonic teacher but she is also a wizard with the Acupuncture needles. Many a morning Tomoko has cured one of us of our hangovers, hay fever attacks or general sniffly colds. An absolute angel!

So now you know a little more about us!

And if you like the look of our studio and want some more information take a look at our website:

www.golborneplace.com

In the meantime...

2010-11-04T10:54:00.001Z

I thought I should show you our HQ! This is our very sweet waiting area.

Welcome to OUR W10!

2010-11-04T10:10:00.002Z

Welcome to the OUR W10 blog! We’re very excited to be starting our little blog adventure and sharing with you all the wonderfully eccentric and beautiful things the W10 area has to offer. A little about us: We are three bloggers (Amy, Jasmine and Celia) working at Golborne Place on the Golborne Road, a serene and friendly wellbeing centre focusing on Pilates, Gyrotonic, Therapeutic Treatments and Cosmetic Medicine.

Amy: "When I’m not at Golborne Place looking after reception or having wonderful Pilates and Gyrotonic classes I’m painting in my studio in West Hampstead and I’m so excited about blogging on the W10 area! Everyday I see interesting, inspiring and hilariously outrageous things! I adore the crazy antique shops neighbouring us at GP as well as the cheeky market atmosphere and the infinite amounts of vintage, retro and generally creative and visually exciting things to be seen in the area!

Jasmine and Celia will be saying hello too soon!