‘i love hosting in this inviting, open-plan space’

Sociable new-build

Step inside Michelle Marbie Davies’ South-East London apartment in the run up to Christmas and you’re met with an array of festive scents: fig and amber candles, eucalyptus and grapefruit, and the fresh smell of pine from flower market garlands. ‘Christmas is such a special time for me – a chance to spend time with loved ones,’ says Michelle, who has worked to create the perfect setting for entertaining. The table is laid with clusters of hydrangeas, white crockery, and sparkling glassware, garlands are draped from console tables and mirrors, and wreaths adorn her open-plan kitchen, tied in place with lengths of velvet ribbon. She goes the extra mile to make sure holiday guests always feel welcome. ‘I like to scent my bathroom towels with essential oils for an inviting, decadent feel,’ she says, ‘and I always set the table, regardless of whether I’m entertaining. It helps create a warm and welcoming tone.’

Hosting is at the heart of Michelle’s life, to the point that she even sacrificed a bedroom to maximise the potential of her living space. ‘The apartment was designed with an open-plan kitchen and living room, but I use the second bedroom as a snug. It means that the main living space is devoted to cooking and eating. I can accommodate a huge dining table and still have space for an island.’

She’s taken care to put her own stamp on her new-build, hanging artwork, introducing plants and scouring the internet for well-priced furniture. ‘I sourced the kitchen island from an outlet store on eBay. It’s fabulous quality with a granite worktop. People can’t believe I managed to find it so discounted.’ Michelle also likes to visit Bicester Village, where she tracked down cut-price Le Creuset. ‘I’ll occasionally save up for heirloom pieces such as these – my aunt has some that she’s owned for 20 years, and I love the idea of one day being able to pass them on.’