WHY I LOVE RICHMOND

WHY I LOVE RICHMOND  

 

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 

When it comes to Richmond, I could start (and stop) at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as the natural forms, colours and shapes provide interior designers with a lifetime’s worth of inspiration. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to more than 50,000 living plants, the world’s largest Victorian glasshouse, King William’s Temple, formal Japanese gardens and an arboretum. More flora and fauna envelopes you at Richmond Park - the largest of London's Royal Parks at 2,500 acres. As well as woodlands, grasslands and wildflowers, herds of wild red and fallow deer have been roaming freely in the park since 1637. Sometimes the best sights, however, can be seen from walking along the Thames Path. The Hampton Court to Barnes stretch takes you through Richmond, with opportunities to admire Hampton Court Palace; Hamlands nature reserve; Ham House & Gardens; Marble Hill House; Petersham Meadows and Old Deer Park.

 

Love to shop 

I absolutely adore the concept at Bridge & Hill Livingstore, where the motto is ‘buy good things, keep them a long time’. Interior designers love the expertly-curated collection of homewares that effortlessly lend a clean, paired back elegance to projects. There’s even an in-house café and gallery space to entice you to stay longer. At the other end of the shopping spectrum is Zara Home. While it’s a global phenomenon for the masses – and not exclusive to Richmond - its brilliant basics can be seen in many an interior in London. If it’s finishing touches you’re after, head to Bramble & Moss. As well as fresh bouquets, it stocks a range of dried flower arrangements, exotic house plants and terrariums.  

 

Love to eat

Richmond’s riverside position has been magnificently exploited by Tide Tables – a café located in an arch under Richmond Bridge. Find a chair and admire one of the most Instagram-able views around. For luxury interiors and luxury food, there’s Scott’s, where oysters, caviar and lobster are served alongside mirrored ceilings, velvet chairs and an Art Deco-style bar. An interesting alternative is Petersham Nurseries, where you dine in an immaculately-styled greenhouse surrounded by fragrant bougainvillea and jasmine. If you haven’t got time for a leisurely lunch, pop by The Alberts Deli. You can pre-order a breakfast, brunch or lunch from the kitchen menu, or shop for ingredients from independent producers to prepare at home.

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