My London

0 Comments | Evening Standard; London (UK), Feb 21, 2005 | by BELINDA BUCKLEY

Kirstie Allsopp

The property expert loves linen sheets and expensive shoes and hasn't always been lucky in real estate

Where do you live?

In North Kensington.

How long have you lived there?

In this house, six years; before that I bought in Battersea but got stuck there with negative equity.

Which shops do you rely on?

Hair Tanning Rooms on St Helen's Gardens, W10, they're brilliant. I go to Thomas Heneage, 42 Duke Street, SW1, for art books.

Lidgate on Holland Park Avenue is the best butcher's, and Bliss is the best place for cosmetics.

What do you miss most when you're out of London?

Everything. Mostly sleeping in my own bed, my friends and the diversity of food you can buy.

What are your home comforts?

Pure linen sheets from the Volga Linen Company, decent coffee, my dog, Floris bath essence, E4 and DVDs of The West Wing.

What are your extravagances?

Expensive, sexy shoes; presents for my godchildren and getting the same clothes in several colours.

What is your life philosophy?

Live, love, laugh.

Which fragrance do you wear?

Agent Provocateur.