Recently I was interviewed by the Yorkshire Post ahead of a tour of my house. I explained my love for retro and art, where I find inspiration when interior styling, as well as why I would love to have Lenny Kravitz over for a dinner party along with my parents. If you think you know me you might learn a couple of new things.
How would you describe your home?
I have developed my home in keeping with the style of the house but with a focus on both maximising and creating more space. I would describe it as eclectic, modern contemporary and slightly kitsch. Home to me is something personal, reflecting my own personality, full of items which tell a story of my life.
What is on your interiors wish list?
I would like more space. I love the sun to stream into the house and would, if I could, open my house up more to natural light. Creating interiors is also about what from the outside can merge with the inside.
Which household items could you not live without?
From a material perspective my washing machine and Alexa. I love just asking Alexa to play a song of my choosing, or a radio station of my choice. On an emotional level it has to be the artwork I own. I adore art and design and have been brought up to appreciate all forms of art from sculpture to paintings. That’s why many pieces in my home hold memories from my childhood and, when I look at them, I can hear my childhood noises and recall fabulous memories. That is something very special.
Which designers do you most admire?
It’s hard to know where to start? As I have been heavily influenced by 1960/70’s design, Achille Casteglioni has to be right at the top of my list. I just adore the beauty and simplicity of his work. I also like David Hicks for his flamboyant and sumptuous gorgeous designs. Also, Sir Terence Conran is on my list for changing the high street with his stores like Habitat. Conran also changed people’s approach to updating their own homes.
What is your favourite building?
First and foremost, it has to be the Alexander McQueen shop on Old Bond Street in London, which was designed by Chilean architect Smiljin Radic. It is the most beautiful shop in the world, in my opinion. I also like Casa Batilo in Barcelona by Antoni Gaudi. It is considered one of his masterpieces and is a remodel of a previously built house. He designed it in 1904. I like imagining where Gaudi’s head was at when he was designing this amazing building with its truly incredible, intricate and detailed design.
Is there anything exciting you at the moment in terms of design?
We live in such a beautiful world. My inspiration comes from everywhere although the 1960s and 1970s inspire me greatly. Whether it is seeing retro furniture or even a tea cup, I love everything that generation created.
What and where is your ideal home?
The one I am living in. I created and designed it myself as a place of total calm and absolutely love it. If I could have more space and land that would be the only bonus.
Who would you most like to invite to dinner?
This has to be a dinner party with many people, not just one guest. I designed my home to welcome lots of people and to host social events. I would invite Jim Morrison for his quirkiness and Lenny Kravitz just to look at him. Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and Diedo Rivera would definitely be there as I love their art and the story of their lives. Dave Allen to throw in some humour. Last but absolutely not least, my mother and father. I am privileged to have had an upbringing whereby I was introduced to both art and culture from a very young age and having my parents at this dinner party really would top off the perfect evening
