Designer Nicole Farhi: French chic, London style

The famous French designer was born in Nice in 1946 in a Turkish immigrant family. She studied Fashion in Paris before moving to London in 1970, where she launched French Connection in 1972 with then partner Stephen Marks (with whom she has a daughter, Candice), before launching her eponymous brand in 1982, which includes fashion as well as home and restaurants. She is married with play and screen writer Sir David Hare and was made a CBE by the Queen in 2007.

What is your first London memory and what was your initial impressions of the city?

I first came to London when I was 14, to study English in a Chelsea school, in the 60s. I spent all my free time walking down the Kings Road. I thought it was a particularly fun and colourful place, which I absolutely loved. I remember in particular the music that was coming from every shop, and how happy this made me feel. I knew then and there vthat I would be coming back to this place.

Where do you live and why?

I live in North London, near Hampstead Heath, where I go to walk my dog. I came here by chance, because I found a house which I liked. I also love the fact that this district looks like a small village, even though it is part of such a big city.

What do you miss most when not in London?

I don’t miss anything, apart from my family. The only city I ever really missed was Paris, which I still consider as “my city”. I still go there as often as possible…

How would you describe London in three words ?

Free, fun, cultural.

What makes this city unique ?

The theatre and music are wonderful here. I also think that London is a lovely city. I like the fact that I can walk a lot here, and that there always seem to be some little pretty streets to be discovered.

If you could make a wish, what would it be ?

I would get rid of all the bumps in the roads. I have a vintage car which is very low and always end up having to change my plates.

What is your favourite area of London ?

Notting Hill, because I find its architecture particularly pretty, and because I think this is a very lively and joyful place, thanks notably to all its cafe terraces.

Where do you do your shopping?

I love 202, the shop and restaurant I opened on Westbourne Grove, because I like the idea of a place where one can eat and shop at the same time. I also really like Wild at Heart, the florist which is opposite 202, and Lidgate, because the meat there is wonderful. That said, generally speaking, I am not much of a shopper.

What is your favourite walk?

I love walking by Canal Union, especially the part of the canal which stretches between Camden and the East End : there are some very interesting houses around there.

Where do you like to go out?

I love going to St. John restaurant for some good meat and Scott’s for fish and sea food. Apart from that, I don’t go out that much, apart to the theatre, which I love, and therefore don’t have any favourite pub, bar or nightclub.

What is the best place to party in London?

I would say my home. I love organising dinner parties and have people enjoying themselves around the table. I usually invite eight to ten friends and cook them some hearty French meals, like stewed beef, blanquette of veal or a good roast chicken.

Where do you go to relax?

I read and watch films at home or go in the garden when the weather is nice.

What is your favourite London memory ?

The night I met my husband David, at the preview of a play he wrote and for which I designed the costumes. It was eighteen years ago and we are still very much in love…

To celebrate  its 10^th Anniversary of homeware, Nicole Farhi Home is showcasing for the run up to Christmas its collection at an exclusive installation in Harrod’s Department Store,which includes a limited edition inspired from the fashion catwalk especially made for the department store.