When news arrived that Soho House Balham was opening its doors in July, many wondered if Nick Jones’ not-so-exclusive chain of members clubs had lost its cool.
But as the great and good of London’s creative scene descended on the group’s 180 Strand venue last night for the inaugural Soho House Awards ceremony, the fast-expanding empire appeared, momentarily, to return to its roots.
“It was one of the reasons I started Soho House; to bring members from all different creative backgrounds together to meet and support each other,” said Jones of the event, hosted by Stanley Tucci, which saw the likes of Charlotte Tilbury, John Boyega and Harris Reed swilling picantes and chatting.
And these were no ordinary picantes. The 180 barmen had created a special golden iteration of the club’s most popular drink, to match the actual golden picante awards that were presented by the likes of Daniel Kaluuya, Lena Waithe, Kit Connor, Michaela Coel and Tom Daley on the night.
With ten categories – from music and art, to acting and design, creator, change maker and trailblazer – there were two award winners per category, celebrating one established name and one breakthrough star for their achievements in the past twelve months.
Harris Reed, winner of the award for fashion designer, stole the show in a white suit paired, to dramatic effect, with a black pussybow blouse, black platforms and new zingy red locks. Fellow fiery-haired beauty Charlotte Tilbury, who took home the golden picante for best entrepreneur, also looked gorgeous in her signature look of gothic black lacey maxi and platforms while Michaela Cole rocked a fabulous fuchsia bodycon mini paired with white go-go boots.
Winner of best actor John Boyega was scene stealing in a neon orange satin coat, while ‘trailblazer’ winner Paapa Essiedu also opted for the same joyous hue on a pair of wide-leg trousers.
Guests, who were all sent a Porche to ferry them to the venue, were treated to mini burgers and sausage rolls while they listened to sets from feminist pop sensation Self Esteem, winner of a golden picante for breakthrough musician, and best musician winner Michael Kiwanuka.
Jones, who attended with his wife Kirsty Young, said the celebrations “brought a real smile” to his face.
