We recently joined forces with the amazing London-based artist Frankie Penwill to create a deck of hand-drawn playing cards.
Today, Frankie guides us through Leyton which she calls home, revealing her favourite spots and some hidden gems along the way...
Where do you call home?
Home is Leyton, in East London. I've been here over 3 years now and absolutely love it!
What’s your go-to spot to get inspired?
I just love going for long walks near home and finding inspiration in the world around me. When I’m not in a great headspace, it feels like all my creativity is blocked, but being out in nature and having that sense of space always gets the ideas flowing again!
What does a perfect day in your neighbourhood look like?
Waking up and heading out for a long walk to Hackney Marshes, grabbing a coffee from Marmelo on the way. On the way back, stopping at Deeney’s for literally the best toastie you’ll ever taste, then wandering over to Walthamstow Village for a bit of independent shopping, and finishing off at The Castle pub with a glass (or two) of wine.
Best coffee place?
So hard to choose! But my favourites are Yardarm & Marmelo, literally a minute from each other on the same road, so I can continually alternate between the two, which is perfect!
And for a romantic dinner/drinks?
Ahh, this is a tough choice - there are so many great places! I absolutely love Slow Burn, just outside of Leyton in Walthamstow, located in a denim clothing factory, which is really cool. The food is amazing! Closer to home, Dina Wines offers a very intimate, candle-lit setting with incredible small plates, cheese, and a fantastic selection of wines!
Any hidden gems that you’d like to share with us?
Arch Deli is a very cute, cosy wine bar hidden in one of the arches. They offer great wine and small plates, making it super intimate in the winter, while in the summer, the outside seating is perfect. They also do very good toasties (Leyton has a very good selection of toasties!!).
Best place for a good sweat?
Fit As Gym - I go most mornings, which is so good for my head and soul. Running a small business requires a lot of self-motivation, so getting up first thing and leaving heading to the gym first thing really sets the tone for my day.
Lastly, what are your three favourite arkitaip pieces?
I love the new Chiara Perano collaboration - the napkins and placemats are so, so gorgeous! I love anything sun-related.
The Margot Criss-Cross Halterneck Dress in chocolate is just perfect; I really love anything chocolate brown at the moment!
And finally, the Wabi Pleated Linen Trousers in chocolate with the matching waistcoat. Perfect two-piece to be worn in the day or evening, so gorgeous!
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