WHY I LOVE MUSWELL HILL
WHY I LOVE MUSWELL HILL
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
Ally Pally, or to use its formal name Alexandra Palace, is Muswell Hill’s iconic Grade II listed entertainment and sporting venue. Its 19th century Victorian façade is best known for the Rose Window – a stunning circular stained glass window. A walk around the grounds is a great way to appreciate this landmark. One of the best visual spectacles in Muswell Hill is, however, the view. The neighbourhood’s elevated position grants wonderful panoramas over the city, framed by the beautiful Edwardian red brick houses – many of which are the work of James Edmondson and William Jefferies Collins. Head to Hillfield Park or The Avenue for a prime snap-happy position.
Love to shop
If your luxury interior design is in need of some aesthetically appealing kitchen props, head to
WMartyn on Muswell Hill Broadway. This coffee roaster, tea merchant and purveyor of delicatessen goods groans under the weight of pretty caddies and canisters (and the chocolates are a divine treat to eat too). It’s a safe bet that Muswell Hill’s most luxurious home interiors sport a few items from Cosi Homewares and Misk – both on Fortis Green Road. I have my eye on some enamel jugs and textured house plant pots. For clothes, What Mother Made a few doors away is an exceptional concept. Every item is handmade and maintains a zero waste policy. If ethical clothes shopping is your thing, Boutique by Shelter is another must-visit. The store, designed by Wayne Hemingway, sells designer, high-end High Street and vintage one-off finds at fabulous prices.
Love to eat
Serving possibly the most Instagrammed brunches in London, Kiss the Koala has perfected the art of beautiful bowl food. Expect warm breakfast naans, Korean chicken waffles and hazelnut dukkah, among other tantalising delights. If you like your afternoon caffeine fix and cake alongside a quirky interior in London, head to Bob’s Café on The Broadway. My eye is always drawn to the fascinating combination of exposed brick, eclectic mirror collection and ceiling-suspended house plants. The Victoria Stakes is a popular gastropub where comedy and cocktails are often on the same menu – great for an after-work gathering - while if your carb of poison is pasta, head to Fasta Fresh Pasta Bar. Try the strozzapreti with a side of stuffed vine leaves for something satisfying.