Matthew Williamson is an award-winning, British interior designer known predominantly for his unique and unrivalled use of pattern and colour, here he reveals his favourite home and away havens
Preferred hangout close to home?
I’m based in Spain, so there are many gorgeous, rustic, luxurious hotels, bars and clubs to visit. A firm favourite is the Can Bordoy hotel in Palma. It’s my go to pit-stop for lunch in the garden, cocktails at the intimate bar and a weekend stay in their modern, luxury suites, which are a fusion of traditional Spanish architecture and contemporary, stylish design.
Best global getaway for design inspiration?
For me, there is no more inspiring, vibrant and eclectic city than Barcelona. I go for the architecture, museums, food and flea markets. It’s also near the beach, which is a plus. I like to base myself at Soho House, which is my favourite hotel in the city and provides a haven in the centre of the buzz.
When I travel, I’m never without
I like to travel relatively lightly in the knowledge that I’ll collect new bits and pieces while exploring new cities and cultures. However, I do love to bring along the Rosé Jukes wine cordial box for a summery, low calorie, vegan tipple. I also make sure my watercolour paints and paper are to hand to commit anything that inspires me to paper. Of course, you’ll never see me without my phone, either. With friends and family all over the world, it’s important to keep in touch and share pictures of my daughter exploring, too.
City pad or country pile?
I have spent much of my life living in cities like London and New York, and the thrill is undeniable. I love the buzz of cultural, social hubs, browsing new shops and attending design and fashion events and parties. However, the allure of a quieter life in the country has overtaken the urge to remain in the city, and now I live in Deià in the Tramuntana mountains and prefer the rural living lifestyle these days.
Style trend you’d like to bring back?
There is certainly a Seventies revival at the moment across both interiors and fashion design. I love that look, and would love to live in a world full of vintage cars, retro clothes and furniture from the period. I love the mustards, yellows, blues and greens, as well as the intense floral and geometric prints that characterise the decade.
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