Why It Matters: The Kentishtowner Goes Mobile!

You may remember a few months back The Kentishtowner was awarded some funding by innovations charity NESTA. We were honoured to be selected as the only London-based online publication to be part of their Destination Local programme.

As well as stepping up our publishing duties, whilst maintaining (we hope) the quality of editorial, we’ve been flat out behind the scenes working to deliver on our promise: an online magazine that, using the most up to date technology available, is a pocket guide to the manor – and beyond.

If you’ve landed here you will, of course, have noticed a few cosmetic changes which we’ll now talk you through.

Firstly, we’ve redesigned the masthead in keeping with other publications. Now you’ll see a new design, again by artist Russell Loughlan, that is less chunky, more svelte, a little bit slicker. And it’s very definitely one word: Kentishtowner. (We agonized over whether to keep or lose the definite article. In the end, it got the chop.)

Secondly, our new site is ‘responsive’ – so it bends to fit your iPhone, iPad or other handheld device. Pictures get automatically resized; the new Nearby button (see below) also becomes more prominent on your mobile phone just when it’s needed. So it’s all more adaptable, like an app – but much better.

And finally, the menu now features more sections behind drop downs: this will allow clearer navigation around the site.

Most importantly we’ve added 3 new buttons to the top of the site.

Press YKT (left) and it takes you to our brand new under 18s spin-off, Young Kentishtowner. Our aim with this social enterprise is to empower young people and broaden their horizons by providing mentoring in digital journalism and publishing, as well as ethical work experience opportunities in the local community. Do get in touch if this appeals to you, or you can help in any way.

Mrs Kentishtowner’s Corner Shop is an exciting new concept which will allow readers to take advantage of all our current special offers in one place. You will also be able to buy locally-sourced products, original work by local artists, and even grown-up things like insurance and property. By purchasing from our store you will also help support your free Kentishtowner. Which we hope is a Good Thing. Yay.

Lastly, our Nearby button. Perch at a spot of your choice, press the button and our reviews and features about the businesses in NW1 or NW5 will appear on a map. Because the map allows each shop or attraction to have their own page, regardless of their owner’s internet savvyness, this new platform will also support independent local business in a pioneering new way. Worth adding too that this is a work-in-progress, rather than a comprehensive list.

So have a rummage around and do give us feedback. This is the first step to turn The Kentishtowner into the UK’s foremost hyperlocal website, using GPS and HTML5 to take full advantage of all that latest mobile technology has to offer. Phew!

Words: Tom Kihl & Stephen Emms