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As she prepares to unveil her much-anticipated room design for the 2024 edition of Wow!house, Sophie Ashby - founder of Studio Ashby and United by Design - shares her favourite places and spaces in her much-loved hometown: London.  

INTERVIEW BY ELEANOR CORDING-BOOTH | CABANA TRAVEL | 30 MAY 2024

Sophie Ashby founded her eponymous London-based design studio in 2014. Her art-first approach and tactile, adventurous interiors have led to the award-winning designer being among the most sought-after talents in the industry. Next week, she’ll unveil a highly-anticipated room design for the annual Wow!house showcase at London's Design Centre. She shares her favorite places and spaces in London.

My Favorite Hidden Treasure: Leighton House

Leighton House in Kensington, the historical artist studio and home of celebrated British painter, Frederic Leighton (1830-1896), which we visited this past Christmas as a team. We were lucky enough to have a tour of its incredible rooms, which have remained largely unchanged [since his death].  

My Favorite Antique shop: Retrouvius

I love Retrouvius in Kensal Green. Owners Adam and Maria have an unmatched eye for seeing the beauty in salvaged pieces.

My Favorite Restaurant: Spring, Somerset House

Spring restaurant at Somerset House is so elegant. The food is fresh, abundant and delicious, plus the setting is perfect. From the uniforms and the historic columned room to the service and the lighting, Skye Gyngell has cast her expert eye over every important detail.

My Favorite Cafe or Coffee Shop: Fink’s Pump House

Fink’s Pump House is a great little kiosk on the edge of Clissold Park in Stoke Newington, north east London. It sells the best takeaway coffee and bread. 

Favorite Cosy Pub or Bar:

I can never turn down a pre-dinner drink at Chiltern Firehouse, either in the hotel bar or the magical courtyard.

My Favorite Museum or Gallery: The Royal Academy of Arts

I love the Royal Academy of Arts – it’s where I’ve seen some of the most memorable and inspiring shows over the years. Highlights include Anselm Kieffer, Anish Kapoor, Helene Schjerfbeck, Abstract Expressionism and of course, the annual Summer Exhibition.

My Favorite Book Shop: Daunt Books, Marylebone High Street

Daunt Books on Marylebone High Street is beautiful, with stained glass windows, oak shelves and Georgian ceiling lights. 

Favorite Place to Stay: Claridge's

I love the old-world glamour of Claridge’s.

Wow!house 2024

Sophie Ashby will unveil her new room design and participate in talks at the 2024 Wow!house showcase, taking place 4 June - 4 July at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. For 20% off tickets, use the discount code WOWCABANA.