WHY I LOVE HAMPSTEAD
WHY I LOVE HAMPSTEAD
Rudolph Diesel is the head of London interior design company Rudolph Diesel Interiors. In this article, he describes areas of London that have earned a special place in his heart.
Love to look at
You can’t mention Hampstead without mentioning the Heath but while the focus usually falls on the swimming ponds, there’s a little known attraction that demands your attention. The Hill Garden & Pergola was commissioned by Lord Leverhulme specifically for hosting lavish summer parties. Today you don’t need an invite to explore this abandoned Georgian arbour, terrace and grounds. If you’re looking for period interior design ideas, look no further than Burgh House & Hampstead Museum. This Queen Anne, Grade I listed property is packed with original features, wood panelled rooms and a romantic flourish of wisteria around the front door. Hungry for more historic splendour? Visit English Heritage’s Kenwood House. The dwelling’s interior design story is fascinating, especially the 2012-2013 refurbishment project. This saw over 400 paint samples taken from the library alone, enabling the house to be reinstated to its original colour scheme. Kenwood House has featured in a number of films too, including Notting Hill, Mansfield Park and 101 Dalmatians.
Love to shop
As a luxury interior designer, I’m always drawn to the unique, unusual and valuable. That’s why I can’t pass Hampstead Antique & Craft Emporium without nipping in. From Art Deco objet d’art to turn-of-the-century furniture, it’s literally a treasure trove. As well as the luxury brands that line Hampstead High street (L’Occitane, Maje, Aesop, Whistles and Zadig & Voltaire included), don’t overlook Lords at Home for upscale kitchen paraphernalia and Judy Green’s Garden Store for what every high end interior design needs – gorgeous vases, house plants and bunches of beautiful blooms.
Love to eat
Heath Street Kitchen combines two of my favourite past times: eating and art admiration. This former gallery has transformed into a bistro café, with some amazing art on the walls and a menu that always feels fresh yet indulgent. Missing the Amalfi Coast? Head to Oddono’s for gelato that’s super authentic and made daily. Flavours include pistachio, panettone and nocciola piemonte. And while we’re sweet talking, no visit to Hampstead is complete without a pit stop at La Crêperie de Hampstead. Its crêpes and galettes have been wowing visitors since 1985, with even singer Harry Styles has been spotted queuing at the kiosk.