Our Founder's Favourites

Susie's Winter Highlights

As we enter the holiday season, our founder Susie Willis shares the highlights that added vibrancy to her past months. Read through her winter favourites which include interior design, holiday destinations and restaurant recommendations, as well as the podcast she loves listening to at the moment.

Restaurant: Il Posto Accanto, NYC

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant East Village in New York City, Il Posto Accanto beckons diners with an irresistible combination of authentic Italian flavours and cosy elegance. This hidden gem has been a beloved fixture in the neighbourhood, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere paired with exceptional cuisine. 

As you step into the restaurant, you are immediately enveloped in the charm of its intimate space. The dimly lit ambiance, rustic decor, and the hum of conversations create an atmosphere that feels like a secret escape from the bustling city streets. I love going there every time I’m in New York. I always order their homemade Fettuccine Ragu.

Artist: Gabriel Wickbold

Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1984, Gabriel Wickbold first pursued his artistic interests in poetry and music before starting his photographic career in 2006. In his career, Wickbold has created six original television shows and had exhibitions in São Paulo, New York, Miami, London, Stockholm, and Lisbon. 

In 2020, he was chosen as one of GQ magazine's "Men of the Year" nominees, making him the youngest artist to have a solo exhibition at the FAAP Brazilian Art Museum (MAB). He is one of the leading painters in Brazil today. 

I love his Naïve series, featuring dry clay faces which are accompanied by very vibrant natural elements such as flowers and leaves. He calls it “A philosophical expression of man's submission to nature.”

Interior Designer: Sarah Vanrenen

I recently moved houses, and while I was pondering about the decor inspiration for my new living space, I immediately thought about Sarah Vanrernen.

Known for her ability to blend classic styles with a contemporary flair, Sarah Vanrenen has an uncanny knack for transforming spaces into enchanting works of art. Her design philosophy revolves around creating environments that not only exude visual appeal but also encapsulate the unique personalities and stories of the individuals who inhabit them.

Vanrenen's style is characterised by a harmonious fusion of colours, textures, and patterns. I love vibrant living spaces that feature bold prints and textures, and Sarah is an expert at striking the perfect balance. Each project she undertakes becomes a testament to her keen eye for detail and her commitment to crafting spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Holiday Destination: The Tresanton in St Maws

There's a place on the Cornish coast that holds a special spot in my heart—a haven of tranquillity and seaside charm that goes by the name of The Tresanton Hotel. 

Nestled in the quaint village of St Mawes, this gem has become my go-to retreat. From the moment I first set foot in The Tresanton, I felt an instant connection. The whitewashed facade adorned with bursts of colourful flowers felt like a warm embrace, inviting me into a world where time slows down. 

It's the kind of place where you can kick off your shoes, curl up with a good book, and let the worries of the world fade into the background.

Podcast: Desperately seeking wisdom by Craig Oliver

This thought-provoking podcast is not merely a collection of interviews; it's a pilgrimage into the minds of extraordinary individuals who have traversed the labyrinth of experience and emerged with pearls of wisdom to share. Craig Oliver, with his engaging and empathetic interviewing style, delves deep into the life stories and philosophies of his guests, creating a space for authentic conversations that resonate with listeners. 

Each episode of "Desperately Seeking Wisdom" unfolds like a well-crafted narrative, exploring themes of resilience, personal growth, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. 

I love listening to it when I take my dog for a walk.