Despite moving in just a few days earlier, presenter Arielle Free kindly invited us over to her new apartment in a gated community of converted Victorian factories in East London.
Immediately serving up coffees all round, Arielle - who presents for 4music, Shoreditch Radio and BBC Scotland as well as hosting the main stage at Bestival - gave us a guided tour of her split-level flat, walk-in wardrobe and impressive record collection. Though not yet fully-furnished, her vibrant and welcoming personality was already reflected in the fun, decorative style of her week-old home.
How does London differ to where you grew up in Glasgow and what do you love about this city?
I remember the first time I came to London and thinking all the houses were so squished together and that there was a lack of green space. Now having lived in London for ten years you realise that's the charm!
Green spaces like Victoria Park are beautiful havens from all the madness and there is so much going on - you're forever discovering new areas, bars, cafés and markets.
You only just moved in but how would you describe your interior style and what plans do you have for your new apartment?
I love any furniture from the 1950s or 1960s! I've just found some amazing Danish teak wood sideboards from the 1960s but they haven't been delivered yet. There's a warehouse in Hackney called Retro Zebra and the lady who owns it has the most amazing collection of vintage furniture. It's where the dressing table in my bedroom is from, and the last time I was there I spotted a Swedish drinks bar from the 1950s. I think I may have to treat myself...
Can you describe your dream home?
I'd love one of the three-floored terrace houses in Victoria Park Village, with a roaring fire in the living room and a cellar for all the wine and champagne! If not, a little place beside the seaside.
Why did you choose to settle in East London?
I've lived in London for 10 years and although I've strayed South to places like Brixton or North to Islington, I always come back East. I love being next to Victoria Park, Broadway Market and the canal. The reason I moved to Bow is because I fell in love with Bow Quarters' history of being a former match factory. Of course the onsite gym and 24-hour concierge were a bonus too.
With a manic work schedule, how do you relax at home after work?
My work regularly takes me away on locations for shoots and being Scottish means I'm always having to jump on the train for presenting jobs up there. My favourite thing when I get back is putting on a good Motown or Rolling Stones vinyl on my record player and having a dance in the kitchen while I make dinner or a good cuppa.
See Phoebe-Lettice Thompson's full shoot of Arielle's gorgeous apartment in the gallery below...
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