Abigail Ahern – My Secret Globetrotting Address Book

03.07.17

Designer, author and high priestess of interiors, Abigail Ahern reveals her favourite home and away haunts

Best-loved hang out in London? Anywhere with a casual vibe where I can take the two M’s (my dogs Mungo & Maud) is good for me. A favourite morning routine for us is to stroll along Regents Canal, and have breakfast at Tow Path café. Otherwise a long weekend walk through the park - Hyde Park is my favourite of all the Royal Parks, and the very best spot to appreciate London outdoors.

Best global getaway for design inspiration? I’m in Hong Kong a lot, and I’m always inspired by my visits. I love exploring a bit off the beaten path - like Wan Chai’s sun moon and star streets. There’s no high-rise skyscrapers, just lots of little leafy squares, narrow alleyways and a fabulous eclectic range of little shops, bars and restaurants. I particularly love Ted’s Lookout Bar, which was part of the inspiration behind the design of our faux florist cabin.

Panoramic roof top terrace or garden haven? I’d love a roof top garden, but that’s still just a pipe dream at the mo! I'd have to say garden haven I think. I love to be in mine all year round. I simply light the fire pit or bundle up with some throws and sheepskins when it’s chilly.

Top destination to visit on your bucket list? Trekking Machu Picchu, travelling along the Amazon, driving the Great Ocean Road in Oz, oh and I want to explore the Silk Road too - a myth laden high road through exotic landscapes. I could go on for much longer but I'm stopping there!

Best advice for home design with harmony? I have the simplest trick to make any design scheme more harmonious and sophisticated – reign in your colour palette. A carefully chosen palette of just a few hues is timeless and restful, and it means you can mix in anything with everything. It allows you to really experiment with texture, patterns, and an eclectic mishmash of styles - if you stick within the same colour palette, it will all still work together.