You’ve worked in many places including New York. What do you find special about living and working in Notting Hill?
I love the diversity of Notting Hill, the unparalleled availability of food from markets to specialist stores, from high-end restaurants to BBQs on the street. I have a big cross-section of friends and clients nearby and it really is village life within the city.
What sparked your love of interiors?
Working for Tricia Guild at Designers Guild was incredibly inspirational. She taught me to be focused and confident in my opinions.
What has been your most exciting project you’ve worked on?
I have been very lucky to have had lots of very exciting projects; I love the mix. At the moment we are working on a Grade II-listed townhouse in Chelsea with a tight turnaround. It’s exciting because I love the challenge of making it work and the house is a total redesign so we have a blank canvas, which is always exciting.
If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be doing?
Cooking in some capacity. It’s my passion. One day I want to do a course at Leith’s Cookery School.
Do you prefer working on residential projects or commercial ones?
I enjoy the mix; both are rewarding. Commercial projects are less emotional from the client’s perspective and more budget-driven. Either way it’s important to have a client who you can relate to and can work with as it’s an intense relationship for a period of time.
What’s in your secret address book?
Thousands of contacts built up over 17 years in the industry. I only work with the best companies that deliver on time and budget.
What is your favourite park in west London?
Richmond Park. I grew up opposite the entrance to the park and it’s the closest thing to the country in London. I have lots of happy childhood memories of bike rides, picnics and walks in the park.
What’s on your Ipod?
Mumford & Sons and lots of yoga music so I can wrap myself into knots at home.
What has been your most memorable west London meal?
I have had so many; I love cooking for my friends and family. My game plan for dinner parties is to be really organised and prepared and then to enjoy it and have fun. I want guests to be relaxed and enjoy the food.
Do you find it hard to switch off from work and think about what changes you’d make to places you visit such as restaurants?
I don’t consider it work. I have a love of design that translates into interiors, architecture, fashion, travel, food and beyond. I am an aesthete and visually excited by my surroundings.
What’s currently by your bedside?
A laptop, a notepad and pen.
What’s your philosophy on life?
Live it. I always want to experience new things, stay in new hotels, travel to new destinations, discover new brands, eat in new restaurants; it’s exhausting but exhilarating.
