BOLDLY BRITISH
I just returned from London for the Designer Leaders Network, a top industry event, and couldn’t wait to share some of my favorite design discoveries from this trip. I absolutely adore the mix of old and new European styling throughout the city, and find it's one of the most exciting design cities in the world! It’s truly full of great design inspiration -- check out Pretty City London for a glimpse!
Here are a few of my favorite style spots from my latest visit:
SHOWROOMS
88 Gallery -- Located in Chelsea not too far from Hyde Park, this showroom is a reliable spot for works by Italian, French, Belgian and American designer goods, from post-war to current day.
Rose Uniacke -- With a focus on combining the old and the new, Rose is an incredible interior designer. And, if that’s not enough, she designs furniture and lighting, and deals both antiques and pieces by other designers.
Soane Britain -- A one-stop-shop for furniture, upholstery, lighting, fabrics, wallpapers and interior necessities, I love that every piece is made in Britain from a network of workshops that support traditional crafts, from iron forging and chair-making precision engineering to saddlery and rattan weaving. They can also create bespoke pieces!
The Invisible Collection -- This was the first online platform to sell a curated selection of pieces by the world’s best interior designers. Think of it as a Farfetch for interiors! Last year, the brand launched its first offline venture in London’s Belgravia neighborhood, giving design lovers an opportunity to shop all the treasures IRL.
RESTAURANTS
Annabel’s -- This member’s only club has been a go-to for royals and celebrities for more than 50 years. Last year, the exclusive institution got a revamp from Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, resulting in a whimsical update equipped with a unicorn sculpture suspended from the ceiling, pink bathrooms adorned with silk flowers and a pastoral wall mural hand painted by British artist Gary Myatt, creating a one-of-a-kind fantasy land!
Blue Bar at The Berkeley -- Located in one of my favorite hotels in the city, this upscale bar is encased in a beautiful blue hue and accented with stylish art deco details. Beyond the striking interiors, the libations are some of the best in London!
Chiltern Firehouse -- Another hot hotel destination, this eatery is located in a former fire station dating from the 1880s. It seamlessly blends charming design details like checkered floors with elements of a swanky New York-style brasserie and a bustling open kitchen.
Sexy Fish -- If you want a unique Asian dining experience, this is it. Located in Mayfair, this sexy spot serves up sushi, seafood, fish and meat in a fanciful, art-filled setting. Go for the eye-catching interiors and stay for the sashimi!
Sketch -- This might just be the most Instagrammed business in London and there’s good reason. A feast for the eyes with creative decor around every corner -- from the 300+ David Shrigley sketches to the pink tulip seats to brass table lamps -- the artist-conceived gastro-brasserie serves afternoon tea, food and adult beverages. Check out their colorful, interactive website for a taste of the super sensory experience!
While I didn’t get much time to shop on this trip, I always make an effort to stop by Harrods, one of the most famous department stores in the world. First opened in 1824 as a general merchant’s shop for linens, drapes, and various goods, today it’s a shopping mecca. With over 300 departments that span clothing, home goods, food and beyond, I appreciate that it provides a really authentic and fun shopping experience.