WHY I LOVE BALHAM
WHY I LOVE BALHAM
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London and the Home Counties that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
In all the years I have been writing about local areas, I have never recommended readers visit a swimming pool but there’s always a first! Ensconced in the more modern Balham Leisure Centre is a pool that dates back to 1914. The owners have resisted the urge to modernise, and you can admire the vaulted ceiling and decorative metal supports as you perform your backstroke. If that sounds too strenuous, make your way to The Exhibit – a social hub that crams in five bars, four private rooms, a cinema, a karaoke room and a secret garden. What unites each space is a luxurious interior design – a place where Miami vibes and Art Deco meet urban luxe.
Love to shop
Balham has retained a neighbourhood feel, resisting the cloned High Street aesthetic. This has allowed independent and unusual shops to flourish, including Lark. Head inside for a homewares section bursting with cushions, candles and all manner of curiosities. Postmark is another small, family run business. It sells beautiful greeting cards, wrapping paper and stationery so you can mark life’s milestones in style. If it’s food you’re after, Balham Farmers’ Market is a weekly affair, held every Saturday at Henry Cavendish Primary School. Browse the stalls for store cupboard staples and supper ingredients, with produce including raw milk, cheese, game, honey and charcuterie on sale.
Love to eat
Brunch in Balham is big news and Milk café is where the locals head. As a result, you can sometimes wait around 20 minutes for a seat at the weekend but it’s worth it. Choose from wholesome eggs, bread and bakes, as well as excellent coffees, teas and a seasonal fruit kombucha. Balham Bowls Club is one of the quirkiest places to grab lunch. This social club and restaurant’s interior designer plumped for ‘granny chic’, with lashings of floral carpets, flock wallpaper, fringed lampshades and vintage crockery. Megan’s On The Hill is a favourite for late lunches and light dinners. The emphasis is on sharing boards, tapas and mezze, and there are rave reviews about the Ferrero Rocher iced coffee – a great way to end a meal. Don’t forget to look up when you’re at Megan’s as there’s stunning pieces of suspended ceiling art.