In our new column, interiors and lifestyle editor Georgina Blaskey asks some of the most inspiring names from the worlds of interiors, food, travel and lifestyle to reveal the treasured possessions they would rescue first in a fire. From sentimental heirlooms to beloved design pieces, each object tells a story about the people who cherish them. This month, we speak to Alice Palmer, designer and founder of Alice Palmer & Co.
My Children’s Photos & Art
One of the first things I would save is the film photos of my children and the pieces of art that they have done over the years. I have these hung up throughout the house, and sometimes frame them if they work in a space more permanently. I am definitely not a hoarder, but these are really special to me, and I do think it’s so lovely to keep for the future for them to see when they are olde
A YSL Navy Dress
I have a vintage navy velvet YSL dress with a plunging neckline and gold button details, which I found in a charity shop many years ago. It was a really good find, and I would love to pass it down to my daughter for when she is a bit older
My Hammer
My second hand hammer was the first thing I bought when I moved into my first flat in Brixton, and it has come to every home since in the past 20 years. I would save it as I have become quite attached to it… and I use it a lot as I am always putting something else up on the wall, my attitude to hanging things is a sort of ‘hit and hope’ style, and it never fails me
Basil’s Framed Quentin Blake Illustrations
The next would have to be two framed Quentin Blake illustrations, which were given to my youngest son, Basil, for his christening from his godfather. They were in my kitchen at my last house and now hang above my bed. I love the expressive black charcoal and have always been such a Quentin Blake fan, Daisy Artichoke being one of my favourite children’s book
My Gold Bee Necklace Pendant
My mum was given this gold bee necklace pendant by my Grandpa, and then very kindly passed it onto me. I don’t wear it every day, but I always love putting it back on. It is nostalgic to me as it reminds me of both my Mum and Grandpa. It is something that has been gifted and now passed down, and I would love to eventually give it to my daughter, Margarita
A Vintage Art Deco Joseph Perrier Champagne Poster
A large framed vintage Joseph Perrier Champagne poster was in one of my father’s restaurants when I was growing up. The restaurant was sold, and I spied it sitting in the hallway of my parents’ home for a few months… When I moved to my new house, I saw that it would be the perfect piece for the breakfast area, and they sweetly gave it to me. It reminds me of my childhood and growing up in my parents’ restaurants, which makes it feel really nostalgic
My Moroccan Rug Upholstered Ottoman
I picked up this rug on a holiday to Morocco. It was a lightweight rug and would’ve probably worn away had it been on the floor, so I decided to use it to upholster the ottoman in my kitchen. I designed it for my current home and love how it really anchors the space and is a nice change from a typical linen. It is something that wouldn’t be easy to recreate, it’s a one-off piece that I love and brings me daily joy
A Painting Of A Landscape In The South Of France
This painting of a landscape in the South of France was given to me by my parents when they decided to modernise their house, which I think they have since slightly regretted! It has moved with me, and I always hang it in the kitchen. I love the colours, and it sits really well against a raw plaster wall. It is definitely sentimental to me as it reminds me of my mum and feels like home
My Ceramic Plates
I love collecting art and, in turn, have built up quite a collection of ceramics. I particularly love pieces by Gavin Houghton, Mercedes Workman and the traditional Lebrillo bowls. They hang throughout my house, in the kitchen, utility room and hallways. They are all one-of-a-kind pieces that are irreplaceable and something I have collected over many years from different places and moments, which makes them feel even more personal
My Collection Of Children’s Clothes
A certain collection of clothes that I wore as a child, my children have worn, and I am keeping for my grandchildren. They are important to me not only because I love them, but also because I feel children’s clothes are made so differently now, and I think it is sweet for multiple generations to wear the same clothes.
My Plants/Geraniums
I would definitely save all my potted plants at home. I have collected them throughout the years. I love picking up terracotta pots from Petersham Nurseries and have lots of geraniums, money plants and ferns. I take pride in keeping them alive and growing them. I think plants really make a difference to a home and add a bit of life and greenery
Visit www.alicepalmer.com
Photographer credit Astrid Templier