Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Iain Watson: I’ve tried a lot of things to balance and separate my work/life plans over the years. When on holiday I will check my work mobile first or last thing, depending on where I am, then leave it in the safe. I have a second phone that is just for personal use. I have an amazing team, so know that I have great support when I am away. Also, I always keep my regular personal training mornings each week for wellbeing.
What’s one thing you do after the work day to help you unwind?
A walk with our puppy after a workday is relaxing and a great way to unwind. With Hyde Park, Holland Park and Regents Park nearby, I am spoiled for choice.
What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?
Yoga is an important part of my routine, and even some of my holidays are yoga based. During the summer, my partner now teaches Kundalini yoga in the park each Friday evening for friends, which is a brilliant way to end the week.
What’s something you’ve read, listened to or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?
I recently spent a fun and enlightening weekend with Chantal Burns, author of Instant Motivation. She coached me though different ways of thinking and importantly how to manage stress. I still refer to the book when I need to be reminded of keeping perspective in a challenging situation.
After home and the office, where’s your favourite third space?
The V&A Museum is always amazing to visit. It is on my route home from our Fulham Studio and makes a perfect place to stop and reflect in a beautiful setting.
On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?
On Sundays I double check overseas travel and meeting locations; I like to be prepared and understand what the upcoming week has in store. I also check for any events that require formal dress – although I have been known to turn around a black tie outfit at very short notice!
Best reason you've had to turn your Out of Office on recently?
My family and godchildren were over from Hong Kong for a holiday. I took the afternoon off to have lunch in the best local pub. We had to brave the terrace in jackets, but it was lovely to be together.
Your go-to Out of Office outfit: Knitwear from Uniqlo, tailored trousers from Alexander McQueen and trainers.
Your happy place anywhere in the world: I have been to the Himalayas a few times, with breathtaking landscape in Bhutan and India. Staying at wellness retreats that were Ayurvedic and very inspiring for my interest in wellness. Funnily enough, Bhutanese local dress features a plaid dressing gown that reminded me of tartan kilts from my childhood in the Scottish Highlands.
Your favourite bar or restaurant: The Dining Hall in Harrods. The setting and choice of dining counters is exceptional.
Something you booked recently that you'd recommend: I went to see a talk on ‘How to Sell Your Artwork’ at Sarabande Foundation, a charitable organisation established by the late designer, Lee Alexander McQueen. They always have an inspiring range of talks and events on fashion, art and design that I follow.
Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend: Having read the Steve Jobs book about founding Apple, I am now listening to the audiobook about Jony Ive, Apple's celebrated product designer. It is fascinating to hear how they have brought together creativity, engineering, and business with their products.
A hobby you'd like to cultivate: I am interested in wellness, and nutrition is a big part of that. Certainly, to understand more about food and diet and maybe visit some of the seven Blue Zones where people live the longest. As they say, food is medicine!
A luxury that’s actually a necessity: Silk pillows and bedding for a better sleep.
Best luxury under £25: Harrods sourdough bread, personalised with your initials! This is a brilliant gift for the dinner table. Just remember to allow 48 hours in advance to order.
