Why I love Holland Park
Rudolph Diesel, head of London Interior design studio Rudolph Diesel Interiors, explains why Holland Park is one of his favourite places. Quite simply, Holland Park is beautiful. This smart neighbourhood in Central London is centred around a 56 acre park, ideal for those who like plenty of green space, while also being close to excellent restaurants and pubs, stylish cafes and shops.
Love to look at
Holland Park owes its name to the grounds of a country mansion once owned by the Earl of Holland, a member of the aptly-named Rich family. During the Blitz, the house suffered extensive damage, so, sadly little of this historic property remains today. However, the romantic ruin forms a stunning backdrop to the world-famous summertime operas staged in the park.
It’s almost impossible to walk the streets here without bumping into film stars and rock icons queuing up to purchase the grand white stucco Italianate properties that line Holland Park’s most desirable streets. Here you’ll find some of the largest detached homes in London.
Love to shop
Lidgate the butcher has been selling high quality meat to residents for over 160 years: their rare breed beef is legendary. Jeroboams on Holland Park Avenue is another go-to destination for fine foods (you might like to try their excellent wines too). Whenever I’m working as an interior designer in Holland Park, I drop in to Lipp Interiors, a hidden gem that sells an eclectic range of homewares.
Love to eat
Although The Ledbury – run by Michelin-starred chef Brett Graham - is temporarily closed, it has been named as one of the top ten restaurants in the world. Flat Three is another favourite, offering inventive Korean and Japanese-inspired tasting menus and a la carte dishes. In the summer months the Belvedere is one of my favourite places to meet friends. Based in the opulent Summer Ballroom once attached to Holland House, it’s now an ultra-fashionable eatery in the heart of the park, overlooking rose gardens, fountains and strolling peacocks.
Holland Park is home to a fascinating mix of people; it’s always a pleasure and a privilege to create luxurious interior designs for clients in this relaxed and glamorous part of town.