My London: Simone Rocha

Home is…

De Beauvoir, I’ve lived and worked between here and Dalston since I moved from Dublin 12 years ago.

Where do you stay in London?

I love Claridge’s; the smell, the tablecloths, the carpets, the cornicing, the art deco lobby, the service, the Fumoir bar, the walking distance to Soho. I’ve been visiting since I was a teenager with my parents and staying on a camp bed. I have now upgraded to my own room.

Where would you most like to be buried in London?

I’d like to be buried in Ireland.

Best meal you’ve had?

The last great meal was cooked by my brother [chef Max Rocha] at Atlantis Records last March! It was my last meal out before lockdown, with all our friends and family crammed into tables all on top of each other, eating chicken pie, ravioli and beautiful rhubarb jelly.

What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?

Reverse Brexit.

What’s your London secret?

The wild garden roses at the farmers’ market in Marylebone on Sundays.

What are you up to at the moment for work?

I’ve just shown my AW21 collection and my collaboration Simone Rocha x H&M is coming out next week.

What’s the best thing a London cabbie has ever said to you?

Are you a member of the royal family?

Where do you go to let your hair down?

Right now I would go anywhere, but most likely a sticky east London pub.

Have you ever had a run-in with a London police officer?

The last time was for cycling my bike on the pavement. I got a fine.

Who is your hero?

My parents, who have constantly inspired me.

Best place for a first date?

Curzon Mayfair for a film on screen 1, then walk over to The Guinea Grill for a pint and oysters. The perfect London date.

Favourite beauty spot?

Margaret Dabbs for a pedicure.

What do you collect?

Books, Delft plates, bowls, candlesticks, antique lace and tablecloths.

Who do you call when you want to have fun?

A babysitter, so me and my other half can go out.

Which podcasts are you currently obsessed with?

Grounded With Louis Theroux, A24, Out to Lunch With Jay Rayner, West Cork.

What apps can’t you live without?

Waze for directions and Natoora for fresh fruit and vegetables.

Favourite shops?

Dover Street Market for inspiration and to feel a part of something, Simone Rocha Mount Street because I’m biased, Choosing Keeping for stationery, Daunt Books for books and La Fromagerie for groceries.

Last thing you googled?

Spellings as I’m very dyslexic.

Most important thing you’ve learnt during the lockdowns?

Appreciate what you have and others. Also, teachers and educators — home-schooling is no joke.

Simone Rocha x H&M is available from 11 March