Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Alexandra Llewellyn: There really is no separation – my mind is always going and inspiration comes from every facet of life. However, my breathing space comes from spending lots of time in the countryside and making a concerted effort to walk in nature. Also, always remembering the bigger picture and the importance of love and fun.
What’s one thing you do after the work day to help you unwind
I walk as much as I can. I find walking truly meditative and it's such a joy to walk through London. Up, down, back to front – there is something to take in and to look at everywhere.
What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?
I adore cooking. I would be happy if I could cook morning, noon and night. I love a Ready Steady Cook approach; buying ingredients with no recipe in mind and not knowing what I'm making until it's plated.
What’s something you’ve read, listened to or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?
I'm currently reading For Richer, For Poorer: Confessions of a Player by Victoria Coren Mitchell. I'm hoping her brilliant approach to play will rub off on me and help with the poker evenings I host!
After home and the office, where’s your favourite third space?
The V&A. I love to wander the galleries with no specific intention. I am so lucky to have it on my doorstep so that I can treat it as such: five minutes here, one hour there...
On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?
A long, hot bath to relax and plan the week ahead in peace. I can calmly go through all the bespoke designs I have ahead and remind myself not to panic.
Best reason you've had to turn your Out of Office on recently?
I’ve yet to find a reason.
Your go-to Out of Office outfit: Dresses or jeans, but always trainers.
Your happy place anywhere in the world: In the middle of a field or under a tree with no sign of human life in sight.
Your favourite bar or restaurant: Sachi on Motcombe Street in London. I dream of the Goma spinach salad and mushroom sushi rolls.
Something cultural or sporting you booked recently that you'd recommend: I was blown away by Tomás Saraceno In Collaboration: Web(s) of Life at the Serpentine Gallery in London. Beautiful and profound reflections on life on this planet.
Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend: Chill Out by The KLF – it's perfect accompaniment to my hot bath or walking or cooking. Contemplative escapism.
A hobby you'd like to cultivate: I long to have the space and time to paint again.
A luxury that’s actually a necessity: Good underwear.
Best luxury under £25: A glass of very good champagne.
