I grew up amongst furniture, and I’ve never left it. In the showrooms of Grosvenor, buying is about more than comfort. Old families from Belgravia and Kensington, and single long chair they all want a piece that speaks. A velvet seat with history, never fails to speak up. I sent a set of accent contemporary chairs chairs to a Grosvenor Square apartment, and the sofa aged but never gave way. That’s the point with retro. People wander past the big chains, funky arm chair but they find themselves in Mayfair again. Cheap wood snaps, whereas vintage lasts.

This city speaks through its homes. Belgravia looks for tradition, with velvet chairs. Camden stays chaotic, with colourful sofas. That’s the reality. Here’s the truth, accent chairs outlive their buyers. Glossy showrooms don’t sell that. I still sit to see how it feels, and the right piece never lies. History sits with you. Before you make a mistake, think again. Bring home something with story, and let it settle into your life.