People often tell me that I have the best job in the world. And 99% of the time, I agree. There is one problem though, and it is that I am constantly surrounded by such beautiful things and creations from interesting people that I never feel fully satisfied with the things I already own. My tiny little flat in south east London is currently furnished with a curious selection of pieces – some oddities bought second hand for a steal, and others collected over time. They are all things I love, it’s true, but the consumer in me can’t help but think that I would be happier if I were surrounded by even more things I love! How delighted would I feel reading in my armchair if it were topped with one of printmaker Ellen Merchant’s cushions from Anthropologie? Or my walls – already slightly heaving under the weight of endless frames – could use a lovely print by Isabella Cortier from Partnership Editions, the sight of which would surely bring ceaseless joy? The next dinner party I host will certainly be a complete failure if I don’t serve the salad in the below leafy delight from Arket, which will need to sit atop a tablecloth designed by Lucinda Chambers of Collagerie, from John Lewis. I’m desperate to buy some more interesting friends for the rather plain water glasses that sit in my cupboard – specifically the jaunty, bright orange tumblers hand-blown by Phoebe Stubbs of Gather Glass. Alas, maybe one day I will, but for the moment, these things will live on my virtual wishlist, while I dream about the kind of person I will be once they are finally in my possession.
I love anything deliciously scented, but two I have had my eye on recently are this diffuser from Diptyque (what a luxury!) and the candle version of my favourite potpourri, which is a lingering and evocative aroma you can easily become addicted to.
Is there anything more lovely to serve a bottle of wine in than this bone china ice bucket from Feldspar? I think it would look rather lovely perched at the end of my dining table. Even better if it’s surrounded by the joyful glass creations of Phoebe Stubbs.
The dining table would be yet more appealing if it were topped with this vibrant tablecloth and leaf bowl, both of which feel perfect for a summer dinner party.
If I were ever to update my furniture, these are the pieces I would want. I’d drape fabric from the top of this four-poster, and squish into this handsome armchair from Studio HAM, whose designs are always elegant and sturdy in equal measure, and you can’t go wrong with a beautiful bar, can you? This one, from Folie Chambre, has a lovely marble top with plenty of storage below.
The decorative artist and designer Ellen Merchant has a great eye for colour and always makes uplifting motifs. This cushion, sold through Anthropologie, would be a welcome addition to my sofa's eclectic collection.
I love anything handmade. Two current favourites are these wonderful painted ceramic lampshades by Hal Haines and this broomcorn brush from Rosa Harradine, who makes an array of brushes and brooms from her workshop in Wales.
For me, a marble wastepaper bin is just about the smartest thing you can own.
I love these wiggly lamps from Bias editions. This one would certainly jolly up my desk: perfect for working from home days.
I have been keen to make the switch to linen bed sheets for a while now, and these from Bedfolk will certainly do. The only thing that would make them better is topping them with this brilliant new eiderdown from House of Hackney.
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There is something about this print by Isabella Cotier that I love – the naive style of illustration reminds me of Quentin Blake drawings in books from my childhood.
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