WHY I LOVE BLACKHEATH
WHY I LOVE BLACKHEATH
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
The Ranger’s House is a real spectacle, located where Blackheath Common joins Greenwich Park. This gorgeous Georgian villa is home to The Wernher Collection – a world-class display of more than 700 pieces of art, including Dutch Old Masters and French tapestries. Another historic building is Blackheath Halls – a grade II listed cultural hub that plays host to orchestras, ensembles, artists and comedians. Visitors shouldn’t overlook the heath itself. This open expanse offers ideal conditions for kite flying and there’s even an annual Kite Day, when Blackheath’s sky is filled with colourful sails. At other times of the year, you’ll find circuses, fairgrounds and music festivals set up on the 250 acres of heathland.
Love to shop
Blackheath Village is a cluster of shops that create a real retail buzz. As a luxury interior designer, I’ll always stop by the village’s branch of Fired Earth. Of particular interest will be the freestanding baths and the highly-decorative tiles. As Blackheath is brimming with period properties, it’s no surprise that Farrow & Ball has a branch in the village. If you are interior decorating in London, this is where to collect your tins of Railings and Slipper Satin. Behind the unmistakable yellow façade on Montpelier Vale is Blackheath Creatives Pop Up. No two shopping experiences are the same, with a heady mix of original art, jewellery, vintage clothes, prints, toys and gifts.
Love to eat
Zero Degrees has been a Blackheath institution for decades. Its onsite microbrewery provides the taps with a dazzling selection of unique beers (Czech Pilsners and American Pale ales are on the list), while there’s ample table space for a full menu to be served seven days a week. The aromas wafting out of Boulangerie Jade always prove tempting, and I often find myself inside ordering French toast, avocado tartine or eggs benedict. My carb intake is not helped by the fact there are three branches of the French-inspired bakery in Blackheath – at 48 Vanbrugh Park, 44 Tranquil Vale and 28a Blackheath Village. Some of the best commercial design luxury can be seen at Copper & Ink. This restaurant has a huge biophilic ceiling installation, stunning artwork and open kitchen – all designed to keep you occupied while you await your mouth-watering meal.