Favourite colour palette for a sitting room
As a colourist, this is a tough one, and I know that there are many perfect answers to this question. For me, though, it has to be blue but working with a warm neutral, to ensure the scheme works hard through the long cold winter months as well as the summer months.
Favourite source of design inspiration
I love the opportunity that galleries and inspired architectural spaces offer up for wonder, contemplation and inspiration.
Favourite material or texture to use in a scheme
I love to use texture, and my preference would always be for working with natural materials on walls such as grass-woven wall coverings, silks or linens.
Favourite way to add personality to a room
Without a doubt, the layering and thoughtful inclusion and presentation of meaningful art and objet.
Favourite decorative piece that you often recommend adding to a scheme
Find a ceramic artist to fall in love with and then buy some of their pieces. Ceramics are sculptural forms with so much interest. We have a few Ardmore pieces in our home which I never tire of - they bring so much joy.
Favourite era of design
This is a toughie, as researching and taking time to admire vernaculars is something of a passion for me. Perhaps our holiday habits hint at a bias for Georgian architecture, as we have travelled to Italy on numerous occasions to stay in Palladian Villas and appreciate the roots of Georgian architecture. Appreciating the architecture of Andrea Palladio is like a road map to understanding architecture historically and into the future. A little tip here for architectural lovers: the Landmark Trust is a charitable trust set up to provide holidays in historical buildings of note.
Favourite place to find antiques
We are spoilt for choice with some great options in easy reach of our studio. A mile away, we have the veritable treasure trove of Bridge Road, Hampton Court, which offers up a number of very special antique shops. We also have the Sunbury Antiques Market at Kempton Park every second and last Tuesday of the month, right on our doorstep. Then there is an array of antique events throughout the year in London. Most recently, we enjoyed the ’Treasure House Fair’ held at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Lastly, I have marked, as a special treat in my diary, the LAPADA Berkley Square Fair, to look forward to in November.
Favourite city to visit for inspiration
It has to be Florence. I never tire of visiting, and I love its current vibrant culture and way of life as much as its artistic legacy.
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