Duelle

Could you delve deeper into your project, DUELLE? London is a city that's always evolving. How does this constant state of change fuel your creativity when developing and bringing your projects to life?

Cultural curiosity is at the core of DUELLE’s interior projects. London’s constant evolution, vibrant diversity, and ever-changing landscape naturally fuel our creativity, shaping our approach in fresh and exciting ways. We’re always on the lookout for new influences, ideas, and concepts that this dynamic city offers, keeping us curious and fully engaged with everything around us.

At the same time, we balance London’s fast-paced energy with our own unique perspectives. Melanie, with her Toronto roots, brings a modern, fresh outlook, while Micaela, hailing from Milan, taps into a rich tradition of art and design. This blend of experiences helps us connect with a wide variety of clients—whether they’re new to London or just visiting—allowing us to create work that’s not only deeply rooted in its surroundings but also conceptually vibrant.

Moving to your favourite spots in the city—where's your go-to for a tasty breakfast and exceptional coffee to kick-start a perfect day? Any hidden gems with a unique design twist that you'd recommend?

Milk Café in Balham is our go-to. A long-time local favorite, this vibrant café brings a taste of Australasian breakfast to South London’s Balham neighborhood. We had the pleasure of redesigning this beloved spot, giving it its first makeover in over a decade. The result? A dreamy, mid-century modern pastel interior, inspired by the sun-soaked, retro cafés of European summer holidays. It’s a special spot that now perfectly reflects its charm. Designed by DUELLE.

Toklas Bakery and Café on The Strand is another hidden gem. Owned by Frieze founders Amanda Sharp and Matthew Slotover, this casual spot is tucked away on a quiet side street as part of the creative hub at 180 Studios. The vibe here is laid-back retro, with freshly made food on offer whether you’re grabbing something to go or sitting in. Plus, 180 Studios hosts cutting-edge exhibitions in art, fashion, music, and film, so you can easily make a day of it. And if you’ve got more time, pop into Toklas Restaurant just next door. Designed by Stafford Schmool.

Let's also talk about your ultimate picks for bars and restaurants. Are there any places that stand out for their impeccable style and culinary experiences?

Mount St Restaurant in Mayfair is a must-visit. This quirky, colorful spot, designed by Laplace, offers a delightful surprise as it contrasts beautifully with the traditional terracotta façade of its original 1888 architecture. Inside, guests are treated to an impressive fine art collection, featuring pieces by iconic artists like Andy Warhol and Lucian Freud. Owned by Artfarm, the hospitality company from the founders of Hauser & Wirth gallery, the restaurant perfectly blends style and culinary excellence.

Ikoyi, located at 180 The Strand, is another standout. Designed by Studio David Thulstrup, this two Michelin-star restaurant is celebrated among the World’s 50 Best for its vibrant flavors inspired by sub-Saharan West Africa. The menu is a feast for the senses—elegant yet bold in color and taste—while the interior exudes a tasteful, moody restraint. It’s an exceptional choice for a special meal. For a more casual yet equally exciting dining experience, Royal China Club on Baker Street is our go-to for dim sum. It’s best enjoyed with a group of at least four (preferably those who are adventurous eaters!). The atmosphere is charming, featuring carpeted dining rooms and large round tables that set the stage for a delightful shared meal.

And any insider tips on where to stay? Whether it's chic boutique hotels, standout Airbnbs, or architecturally cool accommodations, where do you suggest booking?

The Standard Hotel at Kings Cross is an excellent choice for your stay in London. Housed in a striking 1970s brutalist building, it features immersive hospitality spaces designed by Shawn Hausman that are sure to impress. Start your day at the all-day diner, Double Standard, located on the ground floor, or unwind at the Library Bar. For stunning views of the city, grab a cocktail at the cocktail bar and discotheque, Sweetie’s. Don’t miss a meal at their signature restaurant, Decimo, where Michelin-starred Chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias blends Spanish and Mexican influences into every dish. Plus, the hotel is perfectly situated, making it easy to stroll over to Chiltern Street in Marylebone for some delightful window shopping.

We know about your penchant for vintage and second-hand treasures, and London is known for its markets. Any absolute must-visits? And any secrets to uncovering that one-of-a-kind piece to take home?

London is a treasure trove of vintage and second-hand gems, making it a paradise for anyone who loves a good find. With countless pop-up markets, brick-and-mortar dealers, and a new wave of young dealers showcasing their wares online—especially on Instagram—there’s no shortage of places to explore. If you’re on the hunt for take-home treasures that will fit in your suitcase, we recommend focusing on jewelry or small homewares.

Grays Antique Market in Mayfair is London’s largest indoor antique market, featuring over 100 dealers. It’s the perfect spot to hunt for exquisite antique jewelry and unique small art objects.

The Decorative Arts Fair in Battersea is another must-visit, renowned for its exciting selection of antique furniture and art. With a wide range of French and Italian antiques, it attracts local and international interior designers looking for inspiration. You’ll find smaller antique dealers here who may not have their own websites or shops, and while there are some larger items to consider, it’s also a great place to discover hidden gems.

Portobello Road Antique Market in Notting Hill on Fridays is a delightful way to kick off your weekend. Stroll through an eclectic mix of antique dealers offering everything from homewares and art to jewelry and clothing. We typically hop off at Notting Hill Gate and enjoy a leisurely browse through a long stretch of vintage vendors, making it a perfect Friday outing.

When it comes to trendy and avant-garde stores, which ones are on your must-visit list? And what about those artisanal shops that are still off-the-beaten-path?

When it comes to trendy and avant-garde stores in London, we have a few must-visit spots that truly stand out. Plus, there are some artisanal shops that remain delightfully off the beaten path.

Perfumer H on Chiltern Street and Crawford Street is a gem owned by British perfumer Lyn Harris. The chic store, with its modernist aesthetic, beautifully showcases her exquisite fragrance products. The Crawford location also doubles as their laboratory, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Drake’s on Savile Row is a joyful menswear shop that focuses on both casual wear and tailoring. With roots in London’s Spitalfields area, their flagship store on the iconic Savile Row is brimming with personality and fine clothing that truly reflects the brand’s heritage.

8 Holland Street Gallery in St. James is a stunning modernist furniture and art gallery, occupying an impressive property just off St. James Park. It’s a fantastic spot for art lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

Daunt Books in Marylebone is our favorite location of this iconic London bookshop. The architectural highlight is the rear of the shop, featuring a breathtaking Edwardian skylight that creates a magical reading atmosphere. The House by M.A.H is an East London concept shop owned by Italian gallerist Laura Fulmine. Here, you’ll discover unique homewares and fine art pieces that add a special touch to any home.

As designers, which art galleries or creative spaces in London ignite your imagination and inspire your work?

Attending exhibitions, performances, and openings throughout the year is one of the most exhilarating aspects of life in this vibrant city. Each event offers a unique feast for the eyes, mind, and soul, presenting endless sources of inspiration. We adore the large, well-known institutions like The V&A, The National Gallery, The Portrait Gallery, The National Theatre, and The Royal Academy, to name just a few!

We also get excited about the more niche art and design fairs, such as PAD, Frieze, and The Decorative Arts Fair. Equally intriguing are the independent events hosted by individual designers and small groups of artists, although these can be a bit more challenging to discover as a visitor.

Autumn is particularly thrilling—September and October are buzzing with openings and seasonal exhibitions, especially surrounding Frieze and PAD. Here’s a short list of a few of our favorite venues.

The Barbican Centre: This Grade II listed building, often referred to as brutalist, was completed in 1982 and designed by architects Chamberlain, Powell, and Bon. It hosts a wide array of art, design, music, theatre, and even horticultural events. Just walking its grounds is worthwhile, and for architecture enthusiasts, they offer daily tours. We love the building’s architecture and the creative energy it fosters with its diverse arts offerings.

Victoria Miro in Islington: Nestled alongside the Regent’s Canal, this contemporary art gallery is owned by the esteemed London gallerist, Victoria Miro. Tucked away among residential streets, the 8,000-square-foot gallery showcases a captivating mix of contemporary artworks from Europe, North America, and Asia.

A Gallery Walk in Mayfair: Rather than choosing just one art gallery, we recommend exploring the Cork Street area, home to a dense cluster of fine art galleries. You can meander through and expect to see a broad range of contemporary and modern works. Don’t miss the permanent gallery owned by Frieze, No. 9, or iconic spaces like Flowers Gallery. There are numerous influential contemporary galleries nearby, including David Zwirner on Grafton Street, Gallery Fumi on Hay Hill, Pilar Corrias on Savile Row, and Sadie Coles Gallery on Davies Street. The more you walk, the more you’ll discover!

Amidst London's hustle, where do you escape for a weekend getaway to recharge? Any place near London that feels like a retreat?

If you’re looking for a delightful day trip, Tillingham Winery is a fantastic choice. Start by taking a train to the charming town of Rye, where you can explore local boutiques filled with unique homewares, antiques, and vinyl records. Once you’ve soaked in the local atmosphere, grab a taxi to Tillingham Winery for a tour of the estate. Enjoy a casual meal of delicious pizza in their open-air dining area, or indulge in a more formal dining experience at their signature restaurant. If the weather is nice, consider staying overnight in one of their cozy guest rooms.

Another wonderful escape is a visit to The Henry Moore Studios and Gardens. Catch a train to Hertfordshire and immerse yourself in 70 breathtaking acres of art and nature. Stroll through the serene sculpture garden, visit Moore’s family home, Hoglands, and explore the Aisled Barn alongside his impressive collection of artist studios. This tranquil setting is perfect for inspiring creativity and relaxation, especially on a beautiful day.

For a taste of history and stunning design, take a train southeast to Eltham Palace. This remarkable property boasts exquisite gardens and a captivating Art Deco extension that was added in the 1930s. Don’t miss the iconic circular ceiling designed by Swedish architect Rolf Engströmer; it’s a striking example of the era’s elegance. Exploring Eltham Palace offers a unique glimpse into the past while celebrating stunning architectural beauty.

Lastly, what advice would you give to visitors looking to authentically experience the vibrant spirit of London?

To truly explore London like a local, consider staying a few nights in the neighborhoods that pique your interest—perhaps two or three nights in different areas. This way, you can wake up and dive into everything each neighborhood has to offer, from the vibrant day scene to the lively nightlife.

When it comes to getting around, our favorite way to explore the city is simply by walking. While we enjoy the tube, buses, taxis, and cycling, nothing compares to the freedom of wandering the streets at your own pace. Walking allows you to soak in the sights, discover charming alleyways, and stop for a quick drink or to pop into a shop whenever something catches your eye.

Planning ahead is essential, especially for dining and gallery visits, as popular spots can be booked weeks or even months in advance. It’s wise to pre-book a few must-visit locations, leaving room for spontaneous adventures along the way.

Don’t forget to prepare for London’s unpredictable weather by keeping a list of indoor activities handy. For a fun evening, check out V&A Lates at the South Kensington Gallery or Tate Lates at Tate Modern. On select evenings, both galleries stay open late, allowing guests to enjoy the art while listening to DJs and sipping drinks.

If you’re in the mood for a show, consider catching a performance at The National Theatre and pairing it with a meal at Forza Wine. The National Theatre, designed by architect Denys Lasdun and opened in 1976, is an impressive brutalist structure that adds to the artistic experience.

With Christmas around the corner, what fun activities and sights do you recommend in London to really soak up the festive spirit?

Columbia Road Market is a delightful spot to find artisanal holiday decorations, enjoy hot drinks, and visit cozy pubs. From November onwards, the market hosts charming Christmas-themed evening events, complete with street vendors and festive caroling that truly capture the holiday spirit.

For a magical winter experience this year, head to Somerset House for ice skating and stop
by Café Petiole for a vegan cake snack after. The café by chef Rishim Sachdeva was a project
that we absolutely loved working on this year, merging timeless European influences with a
contemporary twist. The courtyard of Somerset House is stunning year-round, but from November to January, this neoclassical gem transforms into an intimate skating rink, perfect for enjoying a delightful evening with friends or loved ones.

When it comes to dining, we recommend booking a cozy meal at a pub. We actually prefer a weeknight pub meal over the typical Sunday roast. Consider Smokehouse in Islington for a relaxed local vibe, The Eagle in Farringdon for a bustling gastropub atmosphere with an open kitchen, or The Marksman Public House for a candlelit meal downstairs. If you’re in the mood for something playful, the pastel-hued upstairs area, designed by Martino Gamper, is a treat.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along New Bond Street to admire the dazzling Christmas lights and window displays of London’s luxury boutiques. Make sure to wander over to Liberty and Selfridges for even more window-shopping delight.

And don’t forget to indulge in some evening drinks at one of London’s glamorous, plush bars. The Ned in Bank offers a vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment, while The Connaught Bar in Mayfair provides an intimate setting for upscale cocktails, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the festive spirit.