Hi, I’m Rosie, I’m a Junior Account Executive, welcome to episode 3 of “Ask the Agent”.
Question 1
One of the questions we get asked is, can I paint or decorate?
The easy answer is, it depends on the location, some allow it, some don’t, so just give us a call or drop us an email we can find out for you. All of the information for most of our locations is on our website.
Question 2
Question 2 is, what are the requirements for painting or decorating?
Let us know before your shoot:
What are you doing?
Are you painting a wall pink?
Wallpapering?
Or drilling a hole into a wall?
We can ask the owner if they allow it, or if there is an extra charge. Just because you are allowed to paint, doesn’t mean you are allowed to drill.
Question 3
Question 3 is, can I do the painting or decorating myself?
We do require you to hire a set builder or professional painter or decorator. Just because you can paint at home doesn’t mean you can paint at a location. If you’ve painted a wall back and it’s not up to standards you might incur an additional fee.
Top Tip
Top tip of the day, ask about the paint back details, ahead of your shoot.
Sophia – Hello! And welcome to another episode of ask the location owner. Today we are in sunny Streatham at the lovely Nicola & Gregs’ house, Wavertree.
Nicola – I’m Nicola and I’m a set decorator.
Greg – I’m Greg and I own a construction company, Design and Build.
N – And were the owners of Wavertree.
Question 1
S – What inspired you to become a shoot location?
N – So, I work as a set decorator, so I often work on the production side of things, so when we designed the house, I slightly had this in the back of my mind. We punched through all the way, we knocked down walls, all the way from front to back which actually little did we know at the time, it’s great for family living and it’s also great for shoots.
G – For me, working in the construction industry you spend a lot of time designing buildings like this. And it’s quite rewarding to have the exposure for all of your hard work, which you don’t normally receive when you’re working in the construction industry. So, to see these cookbooks, adverts, commercials it’s a real sense of satisfaction at the end that the work you’ve done is being rewarded.
Question 2
S -So Nicola what are your favourite features in your house?
N – Well this bathroom’s new, so my bath is my most favourite at the moment and also the kitchen because we basically live in our kitchen.
Question 3
S – What inspired the double height crittal window in your dining room?
N – So when we bought the house it was very dark and gloomy, so we wanted to punch more light into the kitchen and the dining area, so the crittal window was the main part of the design and it brings in as you can see plenty of natural light.
S – So guys what are your top tips for location owners?
N – My top tip is to not be too disappointed when you don’t get the job.
G – My top tip would be don’t be too disappointed if you don’t get the bigger projects, the smaller projects are really beneficial, as they tend to be in and out of your house in one day. And also, it’s quite nice for the untidy ones amongst us as it does keep you on your toes keeping your house nice and clean. Thank you.
While these strange times may seem long and arduous, perhaps even mundane, nearing monotonous and boring, it could be easy to fall into a slump with a lack of purpose and drive. However, while exercise is probably the best way to keep yourself motivated and energised, there is going to be a lot of time spent searching for something to do. So here at 1st Option we’ve put together our list of our favourite films and books that might help you while those hours away. It’s vital to keep yourself busy but also mentally stimulated, so you’re not going to get any trash from us here, rather a spectrum of material ranging from classic films to rock’n’roll autobiographies. You could end up leaving lockdown with one of the most eclectic tastes of all your friends when we’re done with you.
So without further ado, we have our account exec Kate. If you’re looking to become a film buff over this period then she’s your girl as her personal library is astonishing. To get you started however, she has a cracking read here. “If you’re looking for a fun and interesting book to read while you’re at home I would definitely recommend Keith Richard’s memoir ‘Life’. It’s an amazing look into rock n’ roll history, it’s brutally honest and very funny.”
If a film is more to your fancy Kate has an endless list of movies she could recommend “but the one I would say is best to watch right now is All About Eve. Bette Davis is an icon with some of the most quotable lines in movie history. There is drama, humour and a good old fashion plot twist.”
I know what I’ll be watching next, however if you’re after a couple of modern classics then Nina-Jade, as always, has you covered.
“I’ve got the perfect movie if you’re looking for something to pass the time during this period. What better than James Cameron’s absolute classic ‘Titanic’! It’s been my favourite film for about 21 years and I could definitely recite the whole script from start to finish. And hey, we’ve got plenty of time to kill during this lockdown period so a 3 hour film sounds good to me!
When it comes to Nina’s choice of novel, she’s chosen a real cracker, one that i’ve read loads of times. “Noughts and Crosses is a classic novel by the very talented Malorie Blackman, with quite a few sequels to keep you busy! Funnily enough, BBC iPlayer are currently showing the TV Series adaptation too! So once you finish the novel(s) you can binge watch the series! Thank me later!”
Now we can’t just have fiction rolling through our minds for two months, how can we better ourselves without some educational material, right? Well our General Manager Louise has something for everyone here. A hard hitting read about working on the front line in A&E, and a brilliant movie that will be sure to get you up off the sofa, dancing around the house. The perfect way for a little boost.
“My favourite film is a classic – Dirty Dancing! I am obsessed with the 80’s soundtrack and love having a good old dance in front of the TV, at the moment for a bit of a pick me up.”
“One of my more recent reads is “This is going to hurt” by Adam Kay, it’s a compilation of junior doctor’s diary entries. It is a super easy read and perfect if you love shows like Ambulance and 24 Hours in A&E but want a break from the screens.”
Now we all know that it’s in times like these, we all need a little escapism. And I’m hoping both of Rosie’s recommendations can help you do just that!
“One of my favourite books “Daisy Jones & the Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid will transport you to 1970’s Los Angeles (who wouldn’t want to be there), following the rise and fall of a rock band and their lead singer Daisy Jones. Written in a script like format making it a super easy read, and one to whisk you away to that Rock ‘n’ Roll lifestyle we have all dreamed of having!”
“If 70’s L.A isn’t your thing however, then how about northern Italy in 1983…”Call Me By Your Name” directed by Luca Guadagnino is visually stunning, set in an INCREDIBLE house, has a really cool soundtrack and a really lovely storyline. Enjoy!!”
Escapism with some rather magical scenery sounds like the perfect combo to me!
Finally, if you’re looking for a good old fashioned watch or read about personal development and growth, with the added bonus of some truly spectacular scenery, then our Senior Account Manager Sophia has come up with the goods!
“A strong favourite in the book department at the moment for me is Dolly Alderton’s, ‘Everything I Know About Love’, a hilarious, relatable account of the trials and tribulations of growing up in the Millennium. It had me crying and laughing at the same time!” I personally think we could all relate to that a little.
“In film, I recently fell in love with ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ following Julia Roberts on her journey of self exploration through two of the most scenic countries on earth, Italy and Bali. I’ll be watching many more films on travel to inspire my next adventure.”
Well there you have it, lockdown completed! And with one of the widest ranging, diverse lists that you’re likely to find. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if any of this resonates with you or if you would like some more information or suggestions. It may seem like a never ending struggle right now, but stay positive, keep busy, we’ve given you weeks of material here, and it will be over before you know it. Take care and stay safe!
Isolation and social distancing are in full effect and I’ve got my laptop, chocolate and coffee supply at the ready! In these uncertain times it’s important to remain as positive as we can and most importantly take the necessary precautions to stay safe. It’s a difficult time for all industries and individuals right now, and we just want everyone to know here at 1st Option we are taking this situation extremely seriously, and doing our upmost to follow the government’s advice. Self-isolation or not; we’re still carrying on, available to chat and here if you need us on the same number and emails! This is a new and alien time for us all, particularly working from home being locked away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world feels strange. But where there is a will there is a way- I’m very positive we will all get through this!
After working from home I’ve put together my 3 top tips I’ve found have really aided my productivity:
Getting up and getting ready for the day! Just waking up, staying in PJ’s and lying in bed for the day I found is counterproductive. Now I’m not saying whack on a suit or a full face of makeup but getting up and getting ready definitely makes for a more productive mind set.
Writing a to-do list! It’s easy to just get caught up with going with the flow but I’ve found it’s definitely more helpful having a set list of tasks that need to be completed.
Fresh air! Very important. Don’t stay in the house all day, even if it’s just roaming around in the garden, fresh air and exercise are vital for a good and healthy mindset.
As I said, we’re keeping our doors open and we’re just phone call or email away if you need us! As a community both nationally and worldwide we will get through this difficult time together. So make sure everyone stay’s safe, follows government advice and don’t forget to wash those hands! J Nina-Jade x
1st Option may have made its name as London’s leading location agency, showcasing the finest locations London has to offer. However, it doesn’t stop there, with demand for shoots evolving, you must stay ahead of the curve. We now have properties spanning as far as the midlands in England and even two properties abroad. The rest of England is certainly trying to challenge London for its crown with these spectacular shoot locations.
Starting fairly close to home, we take a look at the first of our new properties, The Rock, located in Devon. Merely a short walk from the seaside, with glorious hill and seaside views, this insanely eye-catching property will leave everyone else feeling incredibly salty when they see your shoot. With a completely open plan interior, the property oozes cool from the minute you walk through the door. Much like outside, the interiors are mostly dark, set against a poured polished concrete flooring, that paired with quirky furnishings like the suspended fireplace transports you from Devon to Malibu. Take a look for yourself and you’ll see why it’s such a favourite!
Quirky interior and exterior of The Rock
Second up, we move to Swansea, just take a look at Silver House. A contemporary architect-designed detached property on the outskirts of Swansea, this awe-inspiring property really has it all. The first thing that catches your eye will be the striking architecture, however, the mesmeric views of the surrounding hills and shorefront quickly become a standout feature. Furthermore, the earthy tones that are juxtaposed by the polished wooden flooring and subtle yet standout furniture serve to add an unbeatable touch of class. With a rather stark 70’s vibe, contrasted with a modern twist, we’re positive you’ll fall in love.
The incredible architecture of Silver House
Moving on, we have a versatile Victorian terraced house in Birmingham city centre. Minton House truly is a property of many surprises with nearly every room offering something unique and different from the next. Traditional period features are at the heart of the property and crittal windows, however, the owners have really put their own spin and style on it making for a truly striking experience. The front reception room beautifully contrasts purple hues with pops of yellow, while the kitchen is decked with yellow and an ocean blue that is really complemented by the light that the large crittal windows let in. Upstairs the master bedroom is designed in an art deco boutique hotel style that includes a standout parquet feature wall, and the awesome nursery offers a bold yellow Kelly Hoppen wallpaper with a Mickey Mouse inspired print. That set next to the mid-century furniture makes for a truly unique shoot space. The huge range of colours and textures really make this property ideal for filming and photoshoots.
Versatile interiors of Minton House
Before we speak about the next two properties, we would like to say that we are fully aware of the struggles that all European countries and the rest of the world are currently going through. However, when the world does get past the Coronavirus, nations like Italy and Spain will need help from the rest of the world, so travelling out there and helping the economy get back on its feet is one way to do so.
Are you starting to question why you have never thought to shoot outside of London now? Well were not done yet, as our next two properties are quite special. After a short flight to Italy, we find ourselves with this rather alluring property in the mountains between Naples and Foggia. Il Palazzo features large beautiful grounds comprised of divine gardens, scenic terraces, an outdoor swimming pool and a clay tennis court, while outside offers a myriad of scenery, including the local towns and surrounding mountain ranges. Once you see inside however, I think you’ll agree that there isn’t a single component of the property that is slouching. The interiors are very rustic with a classical Mediterranean aesthetic and neo-classical inspired wallpaper, offering something completely different to any property you’re likely to see in London. All of this put together makes for one transcendent property you need to see for yourself.
Mediterranean rustic aesthetic of Il Palazzo
Last but by no means least we give you Casablanca, located in the Spanish countryside, just outside of Barcelona. Casa Blanca Costa Brava is the ultimate location for a luxury villa holiday with a ton of features that make it ideal for photoshoots and filming. Opulence is the theme that runs throughout the property with a glorious outdoor space that features a luscious pool with lounge space to match. Once we move inside, crisp white interiors with tiled flooring meet you, with a rich Mediterranean feel that can’t be matched. If somehow all of this isn’t doing it for you, this dazzling property offers views as far as the eye can see that offer some of the most magical backdrops that can’t be replicated in England.
The ultimate location for a luxury villa holiday
So there we have it, five properties that prove that you don’t have to stay in London for a glorious shoot location. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if any of these marvellous properties take your fancy.
This month we were lucky enough to catch up with Lucy, the owner of our marvellous property Minton House. We spoke all about the renovation that she and her partner Dan designed to create what we now see today. The results truly are spectacular!
I’ve seen your transformation pictures and it’s truly remarkable! What made you take on such a big project?
My partner Dan and I are both property obsessed, we’ve watched every episode of Grand Designs including the Australian and New Zealand version and have always fancied taking on a project. I love period properties and where we live there is an abundance of Victorian homes.
We had lived opposite Minton House for seven years and often dreamed of owning it and then one day, a for sale sign popped up and we knew we had to have it.
From looking at the dilapidated roof and cracking windows we knew the property needed some work but it wasn’t until we started stripping it back to the bare brick that we truly realised the extent of the project. But even though we knew there was a huge amount of work involved we were never put off. We could see the potential and had a strong vision of the home we wanted to create for our family.
Before the transformation What an amazing transformation
What inspired your style?
We take inspiration from lots of places; cities we’ve visited on our travels, bars, restaurants, hotels, magazines and of course Pinterest and Instagram. Dan and I worked together to create our home, mixing our styles. We both have a love of mid-century design so have incorporated some vintage pieces of furniture throughout and mixed it with some industrial touches and also period features. I’d say we have an eclectic mix of styles, but we’ve made it work.
Eclectic mix of interior stylings
Did you have any bumps in the road of the renovation?
If you’ve ever watched an episode of Grand Designs you know there are many bumps in the renovation road! There are things you just can’t foresee, like the time we went on holiday and got a call from the builder saying all the walls and floors on the first floor were unstable and had to be taken out and replaced. When we came back from our weekend away and went to the house you could stand on the ground floor and see all the way up to the roof as the entire first floor had been removed!
Gorgeous renovation
What’s your favourite room in the house and why?
It’s really hard to say what my favourite room is because it changes all
the time. I’m really pleased with the design of the kitchen extension, which is
where we spend most of our time, we planned the space so that it would work
perfectly for our family; a large dining table made from the old roof timbers,
a big L-shape sofa for Dan and I to lounge on in the evening and a big kitchen
island to entertain around. It’s also south facing so gets lots of natural
sunlight so is great for photoshoots. The crittal windows are particularly
popular with brands who’ve used the house for shoots.
The master suite is a real sanctuary and we designed it with a boutique hotel in mind. The parquet wall provides texture and warmth and the contrasting teal and blush pink paint is really striking.
Boutique style master suite and kitchen extension
What does your home say about you?
Wow, this is a big question.
Our home says everything about us; we have poured our heart and soul into every tiny little detail from light switches to doorknobs. The house almost feels part of us, so much time and money has been invested in it, it really is an expression of both our personalities.
Throughout the process of renovating I would say we’ve both learned to
be bold in our design choices and our confidence in our interior styling has
grown over time. Each room says something different but there is a lovely flow
to it.
A lot of brands shooting at the house love that there are so many
different styles and looks to choose from meaning they can get loads of looks
just using one property.
Bold design choices throughout the property
What made you list your house with a location agency?
A photographer friend suggested I register with a location agency; he came and shot the house for me and said I could use his pictures. I registered in January 2019 and haven’t looked back. It’s a great source of income and exciting to see how other people style the rooms and of course, it’s really rewarding when you see your house being used in a campaign.
Versatility in every aspect of the property
Thank you so much, Lucy, for some brilliant insights and advice about your property and the industry. If you want to register your property with us then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our incredible bookings team via the email address register@1st-option.com
Oh, didn’t see you there. Welcome back to Episode 2 of “Ask the Agent”, I’m Nina-Jade and I’m an Account Exec.
Question 1
So, you’ve got a new brief, what do you do?
You can give us a call or send us an email. Just always make sure to include:
What date the shoot is
What type the shoot it is, is it filming, are you doing stills?
Your crew size including cast
Your access hours you need at the location
And do you have a budget you are working towards?
Question 2
Next question. Do I have to find the location on your site myself?
I mean the simple answer is, no, you can if you want to? But we can also do it for you. We have an online and offline library and we know our locations like the back of our hand, so we can find the perfect location to suit your brief. We’re really here to cater for you guys.
Just going to pop out for a cheeky coffee, got my reusable cup, environment first.
Question 3
Ooh lovely. Next question. I’ve found a location I like, what do I do, well quite simply we can put a pencil on it for you. Or what some people call, an Option, and if you can decide between two you can hold options on multiple locations if you want and then when you are ready to confirm, we book it.
Top Tip
Top tip of the day, always ask about a recce. It’s always good to view a space before the shoot, just to make sure it has everything you need you wouldn’t want to turn up and somethings missing or out of place.
As winter’s ever harsh grasp slowly untangles itself for another year, a duly welcome spring rears its head and we say hello to longer days, shed loads of sunshine and in due course, the luscious greenery that we have oh so come to associate with spring. With warmer days ahead, it will very soon be time to start thinking once again about shooting outside. Here at 1st Option we’re never short of unique properties for all your shooting desires, and when it comes to gardens we certainly have a wonderful selection. Here’s our short guide to the best gardens we currently have available for photoshoots and filming that we are positive will leaf you wanting more…
Once you feast your eyes on Ambleside you’ll probably be rushing to book it for your next shoot. This uniquely modern property, located in Hertfordshire, is truly spectacular and perfect for a spring shoot. Boasting a vast landscaped garden, Japanese stylings and an outdoor pool, Ambleside undoubtedly has an abundance of features that make it a must-see this spring.
The Beautiful and Versatile Garden of Ambleside
Sticking with properties that feature outdoor pools, we offer up a truly magnificent garden that presents an array of different landscapes, making for the perfect shoot location to consider this spring. With the centrepiece of the pool making waves front and centre, Cavendish Place perfectly complements it with beautiful Asian stylings that wouldn’t be out of place in Bali.
Asian Stylings of Cavendish Place
Something completely different up next, taking unique to a whole new level is Prism. This landscaped garden is rather magical if we say so ourselves! With some delightfully unusual touches, this Sevenoaks property is ideal for a quirky spring shoot. We absolutely love this garden with its concrete feature wall, giant pink elephant and spherical installation offset from the large expansive house.
The Unusual Touches of Prism’s Landscaped Garden
What’s a garden blog without an entry that features extensive grounds surrounding a Manor house? Not one worth reading in our opinion! Well here at 1st Option we like to spoil our readers. Just take a look at The Manor in Oxford, it certainly won’t let you down. Sprawling around this Grade 1 listed building we find a comprehensive set of grounds that lead to a vast, sweeping mature woodland that really accentuates the sun‘s glow and new spring blossoms. If this wasn’t enough there is also a beautiful lake that runs through the grounds.
The Manor and it’s Comprehensive Set of Grounds
Sticking with entries that just couldn’t be left off this list, Harlow Garden in Essex certainly tops the bill. This remarkable country garden is truly a one-of-a-kind shoot location that genuinely has it all. While running out of superlatives to describe this location, the Grade 2 listed garden was designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd (1908-1984) and it really encapsulates his architectural genius, with every turn revealing a new quirky vista or work of art. All of this is set against a delightful mix of landscaped and wild areas, which combined with a stream flowing through the middle really makes for a bloomin’ good spring shoot location. It’s easy to see why Harlow Garden is so popular!
Harlow Garden’s Grade 2 Listed Garden
Last but not least, fancy a shoot in the tropics without the hassle and stress of traveling? Well, yet again we have you covered. Just take a short trip to Clapham South and you will find The Cube, one of the most interesting gardens you might ever lay your eyes on. Oozing panache, this unique garden is covered with tropical flora, however, what really sets this property apart from the rest is its tranquil glass cube that takes centre stage. Kitted out with some rather off-beat furnishings, The Cube is the ultimate chillout area and a truly striking shoot location.
Tropical Flora in Clapham South
If any of these properties have put a spring in your step then don’t hesitate to get in touch with our bookings team to find out more.
In our first episode of the series Senior Account Manager Sophia answers the top questions we receive at 1st Option.
Ask the Agent: Episode 1
With Senior Account Manager Sophia Weston.
Hello and welcome to our new series, “Ask the Agent”. I’m Sophia, Senior Account Manager here at 1st Option and I’m here to answer all of your questions.
Phone rings – “Good Morning 1st option… yeah, that’s fine I’ll book that in for you”
Question 1
Our first question is, how do I get in touch?
You can get in touch with us by phone, email or live chat, we prefer the phone because it’s more personal, but if you’re on our site and you see a location you like and you want to shoot us a quick question just drop us a line, we’re all on it so you are still speaking to us.
Question 2
Our second question is, when will you get back to me?
Our optimum response time is 15 minutes, but it depends on your enquiry as to how complex it is.
Question 3
Our third question is, where are your locations?
We’re mainly based in London but we do have the home counties and Europe too.
Recap
So just to recap, our three questions were…
How do I get in touch?
When will you get back to me?
Where are your locations?
Top Tip
Our top tip is, the more information you give us, the more we can help with your brief!
