Alex Glover is a London-based barber who is currently transforming the hair of some of the capital’s most stylish men at the traditional Turkish barbers ADAM GROOMING ATELIER Harrods store.
With his background in luxury men’s grooming and hairdressing, part of Alex’s new role within ADAM’s sees the Cambridgeshire native focus on promoting the brand’s retail and product line, all of which has been developed using natural ingredients such as herbal extracts and essential oils. Inspired by “what grows in Turkey”, and particularly Anatolia, ADAM has created products that perform to protect and nurture healthy skin and hair.
ADAM GROOMING ATELIER
Described as a “modern barber”, ADAM embraces the history of the Istanbul barber shop, celebrating a highly skilled sense of craftsmanship and legacy. Like the earliest Artisans, ADAM’s talented barbers have acquired their expertise through years of experience and apprenticeships, from the roots of the Turkish and Roman barbering traditions.
Services available include: wet shaving, beard trimming / reshaping, hot-towel press, head and neck massages, as well as modern cuts and hairstyling.
The brand’s new shop, located on the second floor of London’s iconic department store Harrods, sees the ADAM’s store placed in the heart of the luxury retailer’s Menswear floor, to provide customers with all their day-to-day grooming needs in a fantastic open plan, architect designed space.
We caught up with Alex Glover for the latest edition of our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
Hackney! I’ve lived in Hackney and Haringey for years – there are so many great spots to head to, whether it’s hanging out with friends, dining, drinking or exercising.
Favourite place for brunch:
YES PLEASE on Ridley Road. A dear friend of mine set this up so you could argue I’m biased; but I can assure you, the menu is ACE! The cocktails are also great and the friendly relaxed vibe keeps us there for hours at a time! Unfortunately it’s at risk at the moment due to the pandemic. Another great spot is The Blue Legume on Stoke Newington Church Street.
Best coffee in London:
I love ALLPRESS when I can get there, but day to day I switch up between using my Aeropress for a long black (for this I buy my ground coffee at Moloko, Seven Sisters) and our traditional Turkish coffee at ADAM GROOMING ATELIER for a unique take on espresso!
Favourite gallery or museum:
The V&A is one of my favourites for its exhibit variety and fashion focus. They currently have an accessories exhibition, “Bags: Inside Out” and also “Epic Iran” which both look great!
Tell us a secret:
Me and my other half share everything, otherwise it just gets nasty! “Nighty Night” is one of our favourite comedies to borrow quotes from, Julia Davis is a legend. I once nearly got to meet her in John Lewis but a colleague kept me talking and I missed my chance!
Favourite place to shop:
Harrods of course! Not just for the staff discount we get, but also for the fantastic choice on offer and for being able to browse in a spectacularly grand setting. Plus, they have the most luxurious fitting rooms I’ve ever been in!
Favourite place to find inspiration:
On my bike ride into work or when running – inspiration can pop up anywhere on the streets of London. I was always taught to look up and see the whole picture, so the architecture and hidden life above street level can always surprise!
Best London destination for a date:
The revamped Kings Cross is full of great spots. There are plenty of romantic strolling possibilities, and it’s pretty central for easy access. I love Spiritland for beats and cocktails and people watching, and German Gymnasium for its lofty luxury and first class service.
Favourite park:
Clissold Park has a lovely atmosphere and is well serviced by the fantastic Stoke Newington Church Street restaurants and cafes. There’s a new restaurant there called Schnitzel Forever which looks gorgeous… and who doesn’t love a schnitzel?!
Favourite food market:
Borough Market is not a bad place to start, but also Bermondsey Street and Maltby Street Market whilst I’m in the area. Perfect for a good wander and to indulge any foodie cravings in a cool old part of the city.
Your sanctuary in the city:
Springfield Park and the river Lea valley. A nature reserve next to it ensures it feels like the countryside on our doorstep!
What inspires you?
People inspire me all the time. Luckily my job means I meet so many fascinating new people, and of course I have many clients who I consider friends after years of looking after their grooming needs!
This season I’m loving…
I’ve got my eye on a few bits from Dries Van Noten, Issey Miyake and Nanushka. Hopefully things will open up more and allow a more social summer – and then maybe the outfits can be more playful. Rather than just living in a work uniform or at home casual!
