This Month's Digest
THE DISPATCH
Recently I’ve been feeling increasingly led by technology in my day-to-day life; as someone who grew up without the constant pull of my phone or laptop, I’ve been feeling nostalgic for a more simple approach. It may seem old fashioned but there’s a real charm in rediscovering a more analogue life: whether it’s in changing everyday rituals, re-introducing old habits, or a full on tech detox.
Build your Library
When I’m fresh out of inspiration, I always find going analogue helps considerably. Never underestimate the beauty of a good library; I’ve been on the hunt for one nearby for years and Reference Point on the Strand and the V&A are my go-to.
I love a good bookshop browse as you never quite know what treasures you’ll happen across. Notting Hill Exchange is a favourite for old magazines; art gallery bookshops are always so good - try the Serpentine in London, Pallant House in Chichester, the Whitney in New York; tie a long weekend lunch together with a second-hand browse at the Yellow Bittern .It’s easy to leave a stack of cookbooks untouched on the side and they’re the best source of inspiration when you find you’re eating the same thing over and over. My absolute go-to’s: Ottolenghi, Diana Henry, & Nigel Slater.
Phase out your phone
We’re all guilty of being a little bit glued to our phones, but there are some easy replacements I’ve grown to love and that really do make a difference. It sounds obvious but clocks are a good place to start - my bedside table is firmly a phone-free zone, instead I've invested in a small alarm clock which does the trick and minimises any bedtime scrolling.
I've recently perched it onto our new handy Rattan Shelf which adds a pleasing layer of texture to the space.As the heart of the home I like to keep the kitchen as tech-free as possible: a Roberts Radio is a forever staple and something that’s very pleasing to have on in the background, whether it’s Sunday morning or midweek while you work.
Tech Timeout
SHOP THE LOOK
I've found that by investing in a few key pieces I love, it's easier to enjoy spaces without any distraction. Take the at-home office - working from home feels a much smoother process with my trusty notebook and a wall clock.
Look to exclude any unnecessary tech in the kitchen while you're cooking; it's such a happy place whether solo or with the busyness of family life. Prop cookbooks onto shelves; a mirror on the wall is definitely preferable to a TV; keep the radio on in the background.
Clockwise from top left: Notebook, Smythson; Roberts Radio, Ebay; Rattan Waste Paper Bin, MG&Co.; Alarm Clock, Bage & Soner; Tray, Dar Leone; Oval Mirror, MG&Co.; Ottolenghi Cookbook; Wall Clock, Newgate; Rattan Shelf, MG&Co.
