This month London House sit with long time local Gemma Martinez de Ana (of Bonadea) who shares her local guide to Pimlico Road, one of London's most vibrant design districts.
Pimlico Road Design District is a meeting place for world-class craftspeople, artisans, curators and makers. A truly unique area: not only will you find the eponymous brands of world-renowned designers here but also the designers themselves, resulting in a creative neighbourhood that tells a story of style, inspiration and exceptional craft.
Nestled along the iconic Pimlico Road in London's idyllic Belgravia neighbourhood lies Bonadea, the expertly curated tableware and home decor brand founded by Gemma Martinez de Ana. We sit with long time local Gemma who gives her guide to the area.
Pimlico Road in a word...
Unique
Your connection to the area...
I am a local and a part of the community. I live just around the corner and my shop, Bonadea, is located at number 20, which used to be Lord Snowdon’s photography studio. If the walls could talk…
Your favourite thing about the neighbourhood…
The village feeling; my neighbours on the road are like an extended family - a very chic extended family! I love being surrounded and inspired by arts, crafts and antiques. We are at the heart of the world of interiors.
Where to stay/ check-in…
A little further afield in Belgravia we like The Hari. Wonderful service and they have a fantastic rooftop bar which feels like an oasis in the middle of the city.
Where to eat breakfast…
The Buttery on Ebury Street
For a quick bite try…
Technically not on the Pimlico Road, but a stone’s throw away on Elizabeth Street, Poilâne does delicious breads and savoury treats. An easy spot to visit in between meetings.
And a languorous lunch?
From Agustine to Mone, the La Poule family makes you feel you are eating at home in your own terrace under the English sunshine. It’s an institution for a reason.
A newer opening is Les by Campaner around the corner, which makes for the perfect afternoon sojourn on their fabulous terrace.
For fabrics and upholsteries head to…
HOWE are masters at upholstery and I love their downstairs kitchen which is always home to a good party. For fabrics you're spoilt for choice with Chelsea Textiles, Rose Uniacke, Robert Kime and Soane.
A list of the best interiors shops in the area reads as follows…
You’re spoilt for choice! It depends on what you’re looking for. Timothy Langston and Anthony Outred always have something to catch my eye. I like Cox London for truly exquisite one-off pieces of craftsmanship, plus their showroom is always inspiring to visit. Tarquin Bilgen has some incredible art pieces too.
Aside from Bonadea, must-visit spots on Pimlico Road include…
Newsons Yard is opening up and there are a lot of exciting brands coming soon including And Objects and Modernity Stockholm. Patrick Jefferson has also just reopened showcasing some of the most remarkable and unique pieces, not one to miss. Lastly, tucked away just off the Pimlico road are Ramsay and Tarquin Bilgen which are treasure troves oozing with charm and opulence.
And finally, what’s your Pimlico Road best kept secret…
It’s not really a secret but it’s one of my favourite things about the road. At the weekend Orange Square transforms into a local farmer’s market, brimming with British produce and interesting ingredients. The asparagus has just started to come in and I cannot buy enough of it!
