Carly Madhvani of NW3 Interiors shares her favourite places in Hampstead to spend time and get inspiration for her interior design business.
For my own home: One Off Oak is a local craftsman who makes bespoke furniture for me. You’ll never find anyone so into oak. He has a workshop in Highgate and absolutely loves what he does. He can make any piece of furniture I design and it’s such good, hand-made quality.
For a quick pick me up: A browse in the WCD furniture and design shop in Highgate village never fails to lift my spirits as it’s full of art and ceramics made by local artists. They make bespoke furniture and source 1950s vintage pieces too.
For a real blowout: I love to travel to Ibiza and support my inspirational friend ‘Krystal Roxx’ who’s a DJ and empowers women through music. I love Jenny Frost’s hotel there called Beach Star. It’s new and low key with a dance floor by the pool.
To get inspired: Don’t tell Philip Green but I scan the Goldschmidt & Howland window and website for trending interiors and inspiration for local homes. They’re local estate agents and have a wide range of homes which my clients will see and be influenced by.
With my kids: Sitting in Oliver’s Cafe in Belsize Park playing cards and enjoying their healthy breakfast or cakes is a real treat. Oliver, the owner, is austic and has made a special atmosphere in the cafe. I love the art and the local vibe.
Feeling romantic: We use the app Velocity which has last minute tables listed (via cancellations) at the best restaurants in London. A walk to the top of Primrose Hill is also at the top of the list for us. Simple nature wins our hearts.
To feel healthy: Working out at Virgin Active O2 Centre with a friend is so good for my mind, body and soul. I tend to do this with Melanie Sykes who recently had us videoed for her website melaniesykes.com. We workout together a lot then have a swim and a smoothie and I feel great, guaranteed.
For culture I love to visit the Camden Arts Centre because they have a really good variety of exhibitions and I can walk there and sit in the garden. They also have a lovely shop and great art and design courses.
Buying presents: I visit Winchmore Hill regularly as it’s where I used to live. There is a boutique there called Minsky. It’s a mini-department store with great gifts, women’s clothes, kids clothes and home accessories. It’s owned by a pair of lovely girls and I am all for supporting entrepreneurial, hard-working women. In Hampstead, to splurge I will go to Zadig and Voltaire and to save I go to Waterstones – everyone enjoys a book about their passion or past.
For clients: I encourage clients to visit the Knoll showroom in Clerkenwell. It’s a fantastic furniture showroom presenting the most well made iconic furniture of our time.
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