Bounds Green - with journalist, designer and creative Jess Alavi-Ellis
Jess Alavi-Ellis is a broadcast journalist, designer and creative with a passion for vintage and eclectic playful design. Jess, who is British, Jordanian and Danish, likes to draw on her mixed heritage to include unexpected colour combinations in her design.
Where do you rest your head?
Bounds Green near Ally Pally.
What’s something amazing about your area that only the locals know about?
There’s a great hole in the wall Italian deli on Myddleton Road in Bowes Park. The pasta and sandwiches are out of this world - and so are the cocktails!
Where’s your favourite free place to visit in the city?
The Science Museum; it’s my daughter's favourite. We can lose a day playing in The Garden with all the toddler-friendly experiments and activities - it’s a dream! Just take a change of clothes as they get soaked.
Where’s your favourite local spot for a cheap bite to eat?
Honestly I’m not sure I want to reveal this secret but Paneri Taverna on Green Lanes. You have to call ahead to order the chicken souvla because it sells out - but trust me, you must!
What would your perfect no-spend London day involve?
A walk around The Photographers Gallery in Soho and a picnic in Regents Park
If you were going to splurge in London, what would it be on?
A great dinner at The Baring in Canonbury. It’s excellent.
If you were mayor for the day, what would you do?
Oh gosh, I’d probably massively overspend -especially on affordable housing and step-free access on public transport.
Where do you like to go in London when you’re looking for design and interiors inspo?
I like to wander around Columbia Road and pop into Milagros (the best Mexican tiles and souvenirs) and Colours of Arley (the best striped fabrics, and you might see some pieces in there from our Colours of Arley x Jess Alavi-Ellis Vintage Drops!) but mostly I leave the city for inspiration. You can’t beat an out-of-London antiques shop. Kent is my go-to.
Are there any independent businesses in London that you’d like to shout about?
The Baring, Colours of Arley, Bettina Ceramica - and me!
In three words, what makes someone a Londoner?
Anything you want.
Follow Jess Alavi-Ellis on Instagram here and check out her website here.
