Unpack the Unexpected

Quote of the Week - “The surprise is you continue to be surprised.” - Jill Davis

Good Afternoon, London. As the city truly awakens to the long days of summer, prepare to peel back the layers of the familiar and discover the unexpected in this week's London Palette. If you’re a history buff who loves architecture you’ll marvel at the stunning transformation of an East End hospital. Also, Nigeria invites you to bask in its creativity over at Somerset House. Meet London’s latest M.B.E., who is rewiring the tech scene for good. Celebrate and sample the authentic taste of Southeast Asia at The Thailand Showcase! And, the Nigerian Word of the Week explains how strength truly comes in numbers.

Snatched highlights from this edition:

1. Brentford Invites You to Chill at its Waterfront

2. Sustainability Seizes its Moment at Reset Connect

3. Live Music - Monty Alexander, The Meters, Imaani & lots more!

Let’s dive in.

—Bybreen Samuels

COUNCIL CANVAS

The Old Hospital That Just Had a Civic Heart Transplant

Ever walked past a grand, historic building in London and wondered what stories its walls could tell? For decades, the majestic former Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel stood as a silent statue to centuries of care and medical breakthroughs. Now, this Grade II listed landmark has not only been given a spectacular new lease on life but has also been crowned the RIBA London Building of the Year and received a RIBA London Award. Beyond preserving history, the achievement is about reinventing the building for the heart of the community.

This ambitious transformation, spearheaded by architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, took a building vacant since 2012 and breathed new purpose into its 18th-century structure. The challenge was enormous. Namely, how to respectfully integrate a contemporary extension with a building that once housed figures like Edith Cavell and the 'Elephant Man,' and make it a functional, accessible hub for modern local government? The result is a seamless fusion of past and present, offering over 1,500 flexible workspaces and bringing council services together in one central, welcoming location.

The RIBA jury lauded the project as a "tour de force of reinvention," praising its "sensitivity to the existing building’s story with a sharpness of contemporary detailing." This £124.75 million investment is more than bricks and mortar. As Mayor Lutfur Rahman put it, it's an "investment in people, in public service, in preserving our history and an investment in our future." The new Town Hall is central to the broader regeneration of Whitechapel, contributing to an estimated £4.1 million in local spending and creating thousands of jobs in the area.

Tower Hamlets Town Hall now stands as a powerful symbol of London's continuous evolution. It demonstrates how councils can lead the way in repurposing our city's rich architectural heritage to better serve residents, blending civic duty with award-winning design. This bold reinvention ensures that a building steeped in history will continue to serve the community of East London for generations. Proving that the most impactful design often celebrates both where we've been and where we're going.

CITY PALETTE

Swap Your Oyster Card for a Trip to Bangkok

The desire for a spontaneous trip to a tropical paradise often clashes with the reality of a busy London schedule. This month, you can skip the nine-hour flight and simply tap your way to King’s Cross for an authentic taste of Southeast Asia. The Thailand Showcase is landing in Coal Drops Yard for a vibrant, free three-day festival that promises to take you straight to the bustling streets of Bangkok through a feast of food, art, and culture. It’s your chance to experience the magic of Thailand without ever leaving Zone 1.

This year's event is more than just a cultural pop-up. It's a grand celebration marking the 170th anniversary of diplomatic friendship between the UK and Thailand. Under the theme Timeless Creativity, the Showcase beautifully illustrates how Thailand's rich heritage seamlessly blends with its innovative spirit. After drawing an incredible 60,000 visitors last year, the event is moving to the larger Lewis Cubitt Square, promising an even more immersive and expansive experience from June 27 to 29.

Prepare for a truly engaging journey. You can savour culinary delights from London's top-tier Thai restaurants, including the Michelin-recommended Farang London and the refined Patara. Beyond the incredible food, you can get involved in captivating traditional dance and theatre performances by artists flown in directly from Thailand, or catch an outdoor film screening. A bustling marketplace will feature everything from sustainable fashion to unique home decor, offering a perfect opportunity to discover the ingenuity of Thai craftsmanship.

Ultimately, the Thailand Showcase is a powerful tribute to a longstanding international friendship and a testament to London's vibrant multicultural heart. It’s an invitation to step beyond the everyday and connect with a rich culture through its flavours, stories, and creative energy. So, clear your calendar, head to King's Cross, and lose yourself in a celebration that proves you don’t need a plane ticket to embark on a worldly adventure.

Book tickets here - https://londondesignbiennale.com

An Ancient Iron Village is Forging the Future of Design

Your journey into a nation’s design soul can often begin in the most unexpected places. Not in a modern metropolis, but in the echoes of a forgotten industrial past. During, the London Design Biennale, you can witness Nigeria's first government-backed national pavilion. This is an arrival that marks a pivotal moment for the country's creative economy on the global stage. Head to Somerset House for the exhibition, titled Hopes and Impediments, where you're invited to look beyond conventional narratives and discover how ancient wisdom is shaping a radical new vision for African design.

Inspired by the critical essays of renowned Nigerian author Chinua Achebe, the pavilion offers you a profound exploration of identity, heritage, and reinvention. You'll discover a story anchored in Lejja, a historic community in South-Eastern Nigeria that was home to one of the world's earliest iron-smelting sites. While the forges have long since cooled, what you'll see is how this history is masterfully resurrected. It’s not a relic to be preserved, but as a living blueprint for resilience, governance, and social structure that continues to endure.

This multi-sensory space is where the lines between past, present, and future blur right before your eyes. You’ll experience how a combination of ethnographic research, speculative architecture, and digital tools transforms Lejja into a symbol of transformation and a catalyst for imagining alternative futures. The installation is a fluid, utopian-communal area designed to feel less like a structure and more like a vessel for memory, challenging you to see design as a living archive of evolving identities.

Ultimately, what you'll find in Hopes and Impediments is a powerful call to action that encourages you to reassess how history, material culture, and innovation intersect. By bringing the story of an overlooked region to a global audience, the pavilion makes a compelling case that the future of Nigerian design lies in the deep intelligence of its past. Make sure this is an essential stop on your list for this year's Biennale. It offers you a rare glimpse into how reclaiming suppressed histories can forge a bold, new creative identity.

Book tickets here - https://londondesignbiennale.com

UNDISCOVERED GEMS

A Weekend Waterfront Escape is Closer Than You Think

Forget the crowded city centre and discover a vibrant slice of London life you might not know exists, right on your doorstep. On Saturday, June 21, you have the perfect excuse to explore the charming waterways of West London at the annual Brentford Canal Festival, a free, day-long celebration of the area's unique waterside culture. A street market to some but to others, it's a chance to plunge into a community-driven event that transforms the historic Grand Union Canal, River Brent, and River Thames into a bustling hub of activity.

Imagine yourself gliding along the water on a free boat trip, trying your hand at kayaking, or simply soaking up the Festival atmosphere from the water's edge. With live music across six different stages, including floating platforms, your afternoon will have a constant, lively soundtrack. You can wander through a floating market filled with unique crafts, browse stalls from artisan makers, and hunt for vintage treasures at a classic car boot sale. The event is a true feast for the senses, promising something for everyone, from families looking for kids' activities to foodies eager to sample diverse street food offerings.

Last year, the Festival drew over 5,000 people, and this year promises to be even bigger, a testament to its growing reputation as one of West London's major annual attractions. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating the magic that happens when a whole town comes together. The event offers a rare opportunity to experience the waterways in a completely new way, with everything from the Royal National Lifeguard Institute’s lifesaving demonstrations to international dance troupes performing along the banks. It’s your chance to see a different side of London, one that’s rich in history, creativity, and community spirit.

So, clear your calendar for Saturday, June 21, from 12pm to 6pm, and head to Brentford for a day of exploration and entertainment. Whether you're a local resident or new to the area, this is your invitation to relax and enjoy everything this vibrant waterfront neighbourhood has to offer. Don't miss out on what Hounslow Council has recognised as the borough's biggest free Festival.

Find out more here - https://brentfordcanalfestival.co.uk

LONDON BUZZ

Meet the Londoner Rewiring the Tech Scene for Good

London has a new homegrown hero to celebrate, and his story is one that perfectly captures the city's spirit of innovation and inclusion. Ashleigh Ainsley, the co-founder of Colorintech, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for his transformative services to diversity and inclusion in technology. For anyone passionate about seeing London's industries reflect the vibrant diversity of its streets, this is a moment of collective pride and a testament to the power of dedicated, grassroots change.

Frustrated by the lack of racial diversity he experienced working in the tech sector, Ashleigh co-founded the non-profit Colorintech in 2016 to rewrite the script. His mission was to improve access, awareness, and opportunities for ethnic minorities within the industry. Driven by this vision, he has built a community of over 30,000 individuals and seen 5,000 people graduate from Colorintech's programmes, creating tangible pathways into the world’s most innovative companies.

Ashleigh’s impact doesn't stop there. He also established Black Tech Fest, now the largest event of its kind in Europe, which provides a powerful platform to celebrate Black culture and talent within technology By securing partnerships with global giants like Google, Microsoft, and Meta, he has successfully bridged the gap between underrepresented talent and corporate opportunity. His work has earned him a spot on Forbes' 30 Under 30 list and recognition as one of the most influential people in UK tech.

Ultimately, Ashleigh Ainsley's journey from a state-school kid in Lewisham to a nationally recognised leader is a powerful story of purpose and determination. He isn't just opening doors, he's fundamentally changing the architecture of the tech industry to be more equitable and representative. His work is a shining example of the positive buzz happening across our city, proving that with vision and commitment, you can build a more inclusive and innovative future for all.

LONDON SOUNDSCAPE

Crazy Coqs Cabaret - June 20

Step back in time to an era where blues, jazz, and soul reigned supreme, with a band that channels their essence directly to your ears. The captivating Big Mama's Door brings their alluring blend of 1950s R&B, jazz, and soul to the intimate Crazy Coqs Cabaret . Led by the charismatic Fiona McElroy, whose smoky vocals evoke the spirit of Etta James, you’ll be treated to original compositions and timeless covers. Consistently filling renowned venues, their passionate and professional artistry promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in authentic, soulful sounds that linger long after the night ends.

Book tickets here - https://www.brasseriezedel.com/crazy-coqs

Green Note - June 29

If the sun-drenched melodies of Bossa Nova and the infectious energy of Samba call to you, an intimate evening awaits. Green Note welcomes João Menezes, a Portuguese singer and guitarist specialising in the vibrant sounds of Brazil. You’ll experience his mastery across diverse styles including Bossa Nova, Samba, Partido-alto, Choro, and MPB. This is your chance to soak up the authentic rhythms and soulful harmonies that define Brazilian music. Don't miss this opportunity to be transported to the sun-drenched beaches and lively streets of Rio right here in London.

Book tickets here - https://www.greennote.co.uk

Hootananny Brixton - June 26

The legendary Glastonbury spirit is making an unexpected detour directly to you, setting up its vibrant camp in the heart of Brixton. Hootananny Brixton presents the Hoots Glastonbury Experience, on Thursday, June 26, and it’s completely free. You'll find your own slice of Worthy Farm with live music from Soul Grenades and New Car Smell, plus electric sets from DJ Jamie Moon. Enjoy the dynamic lineup that keeps the festival energy alive until late. With Hootananny’s legendary atmosphere and spacious beer garden, it’s time to embrace Glastonbury’s essence right here in London.

Book tickets here - https://hootanannybrixton.co.uk

Nightjar Carnaby - June 21

Prepare to be transported to the golden era of blues as Eric Ranzoni - The Rockin' Roman takes centre stage at Nightjar Carnaby. Eric is known for his distinctive singing and knack for entertaining. His music draws deeply from the blues legends from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Experience his intense, honest, and beautiful interpretations in Nightjar’s atmospheric setting, a true hidden gem for quality cocktails and live music. While sipping on a cocktail or two, feel the raw energy of blues history come alive.

Book tickets here - https://www.barnightjar.com

Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club - June 24 , 25, 26, 27 and 28

Monty Alexander, a living legend returns to the iconic Ronnie Scott's. Monty is accompanied by Luke Sellick and Jason Brown, and is set to captivate you with his vibrant personality and soulful jazz interpretations. Recognised for his effervescent grooves and romantic spirit, Monty, recently honoured with the Order of Jamaica, will bring his distinctive blend of Jamaican and American musical heritage to the stage. Experience the seamless fusion of timeless melodies and innovative improvisations as he celebrates his new album, D Day. Book your ticket today, if you truly want to be taken on a musical adventure by one of the greatest jazz pianists of our time.

Book tickets here - https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk

606 Club - June 22

You can experience the ‘lost in the groove moments’ when Incognito come together for a rare and captivating live experience. London's own 606 Club welcomes Imaani, the powerhouse vocalist known for her extensive work with the iconic jazz-funk band for over a decade. You’ll be swept away by her magnificent vocals and a brilliant band, who’ll deliver an unforgettable evening of soul and R&B. Critically acclaimed by DJ Times for her 'magnificent vocals' Imaani is undoubtedly one of Europe's finest. Witness a true giant of the UK Soul scene in an intimate setting.

Book tickets here - https://www.606club.co.uk

Soul Mama - June 26

Your ears are in for a treat as a smooth jazz maestro takes the stage in Stratford. Nathan Mitchell, a standout in the contemporary jazz scene, is set to grace Soul Mama. Nathan invites you into his unique blend of soul and contemporary jazz and promises an evening of unparalleled musical sophistication. Sit back and revel in an alluring live performance from an artist who delights fans worldwide, with his distinctive sound.

Book tickets here - https://www.soulmama.co.uk

St. Mary le Strand Church - June 21

Imagine a sanctuary where flickering light dances with timeless melodies, inviting you into a world of classical elegance. Treat yourself to an exceptional concert as Mozart Masterpieces by Candlelight graces St. Mary le Strand Church on June 21. The outstanding Piccadilly Sinfonietta will perform an enchanting selection of Mozart's greatest works, including the beloved Eine Kleine Nachtmusik and The Marriage of Figaro Overture. With two performances during the night, this unique candlelit setting promises a memorable evening. Prepare to be mesmerised by the genius of Mozart in a truly magical atmosphere.

Book tickets here - https://www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org

The Bedford - June 22

Sometimes, the most powerful musical experiences unfold when an artist lays bare their soul, and on June 22, you have the chance to witness just that. Melissa James brings her critically acclaimed Stripped Back concert to The Bedford. She will entice you with her magnificent vocals and deeply personal songs that will shine in this pared-down setting. This isn't just a concert, you’ll be able to connect with an artist whose soulful blend of folk, jazz, and blues creates an emotionally charged atmosphere. Snatch this moment to experience her raw authenticity.

Book tickets here - https://thebedford.com

The Camden Club - June 27

Take an electrifying journey into the heart of African culture, reimagined through a modern musical lens. Afrofusion UK, will take you by the hand and lead you through a showcase of exceptional Diaspora artists. You'll immerse yourself in a vibrant fusion of African rhythms and contemporary sounds, celebrating African creativity. Your presence will help to elevate these talented voices, amplifying their global impact. This is a fusion of a concert and a movement that promises powerful cultural expressions that will linger for a while. Be part of something that’s bigger than you.

Book tickets here - https://www.thecamdenclub.co.uk

Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium - July 3

The very fabric of R&B and hip-hop soul is woven with the undeniable artistry of a true queen. And this July, you can witness her reign. Mary J. Blige, the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, takes over Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, sharing the stage with fellow titans 50 Cent and Davido. Get ready for an electrifying night as Mary delivers her signature blend of raw emotion and timeless hits. This is your moment to experience a living legend, celebrating decades of genre-defining music in what promises to be an iconic summer event.

Book tickets here - https://www.tottenhamhotspurstadium.com

Union Chapel - June 20

If you've ever grooved to the foundational beats of funk, you know the indelible mark left by The Meters. This is your rare opportunity to pay homage to these New Orleans legends as an all-star lineup celebrates the 55th anniversary of their iconic Struttin album. Musicians like James Taylor - JTQ and Leigh Gracie - Speedometer will bring their timeless classics, such as Cissy Strut and Funky Miracle, to life. Prepare for an evening steeped in the raw, infectious energy that influenced generations, from Red Hot Chili Peppers to the Beastie Boys. This show is the very essence of funk.

Book tickets here - https://unionchapel.org.uk

BUSINESS SCENE

Business as Usual Ends as the Bottom Line Turns Green

You might think the future of your business will be decided in a boardroom, but this June, it’s more likely to be forged at the ExCeL London. Forget stuffy conferences with predictable panels. Instead, on June 24 and 25, Reset Connect London will transform the exhibition centre into the UK's most critical hub for sustainability and net-zero innovation. As the flagship event of London Climate Action Week, this free-to-attend gathering is where the abstract challenge of climate change meets tangible business opportunity, bridging the gap between sustainability goals and the funding needed to achieve them.

This is more than just another industry event, it's a powerful reflection of a major shift in the corporate world. With an expected 7,500 attendees, 400 expert speakers, and 300 exhibitors, the scale is massive. The agenda focuses on the core issues facing modern businesses, from scaling renewable energy and decarbonising supply chains to the latest in green technology and impact investment. Featuring leaders like Kerry McCarthy, the Minister for Climate, the event is designed to help businesses navigate evolving net-zero policies and find actionable solutions.

If you’re a forward-thinking entrepreneur or business leader, the implications are profound. This is your chance to connect with innovators, policymakers, and investors who are actively shaping the future of the green economy. The event provides a unique platform for start-ups and established companies alike to raise investment, generate leads, and future-proof their operations by embedding sustainability at their core. It’s a space where groundbreaking ideas are showcased and collaborations that drive real-world change are born.

Ultimately, Reset Connect is a clear signal that profitability and sustainability are no longer mutually exclusive, they are now inextricably linked. It represents a pivotal moment for you to move from climate ambition to climate action, ensuring your business remains competitive and resilient. The connections and insights gained here won't just be valuable; they'll be essential for thriving in a world where doing good is simply good business.

Find out more here - https://www.reset-connect.com

LINGUISTIC TAPESTRY - WORDS OF THE WEEK 

English Word:
Flummery
Pronunciation: /flʌməri/
Definition:  Meaningless flattery or empty talk; a sweet, soft pudding made from milk, sugar, and flour.
Cultural Note: Metaphorically, Flummery also signifies bland, empty, or flattering speech, perfectly capturing the idea of words that are sweet on the surface but lack real substance.

Nigerian Word:
Igwebuike
Pronunciation: /ig-way-boo-ee-keh/
Definition:  A foundational principle in Igbo philosophy that translates to community is strength or unity is power.
Cultural Note: Igwebuike is a worldview that embodies the belief that collective strength, solidarity, and a shared sense of purpose are essential for overcoming challenges and driving progress.

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