In My Shoes | Laura Normanton
Laura Normanton is an interiors editor and has been writing about design for the past 14 years. Now based in West London with her husband and two young children, Laura grew up in the Scottish Borders before attending the University of Edinburgh to study Architectural History. Graduating with first class honours, Laura is an interiors specialist and edits shopping and news pages for leading shelter magazines. Guided by an eye for elegance and classic style, Laura is a go-to in the industry for all things interiors, design and hosting. Follow @lauramnormanton.
How do you start your day?
The first thing I do is get my baby daughter and son up. Thankfully, they are normally so pleased to see me and I'm welcomed with big smiles; it's the best way to start the day. Once they are dressed, I head to the kitchen for a glass of Chuckling Goat Kefir which is full of probiotics and good bacteria and I like to have it on an empty stomach. I’m then rushing out the door to work, often heading to a breakfast meeting with clients and PRs to discuss design industry news.
What is your fashion philosophy?
I like things to be timeless, well made and, most importantly, comfortable.
Can you share your top tip?
Be present. It's an obvious one and something I struggle with. I need to keep reminding myself to stop worrying about the future and enjoy the moment. Smartphones and social media make this difficult.
What inspires you?
So much. I get inspired by simple things every day. From reading a novel or a magazine, to people-watching in Covent Garden on my lunch break, meeting artists and designers at work, going to art galleries, travelling, eating out, going to the theatre. I grew up in the Scottish countryside and I am still dazzled by what London offers. There is so much right in front of our nose. It’s a privilege to live in such a dynamic and cosmopolitan city, I have to continually remind myself to not only make the effort to take advantage of it but also take the time to stop and look.
How do you unwind?
Having a glass of wine and a long dinner with my girlfriends...no one makes me laugh more. I also got into Acupuncture during my second pregnancy, which I now swear by, and I love a long walk in the countryside.
If you could visit anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would it be?
I have a very long list which I keep adding to but firmly at the top is Japan. With its rich history, strong culture and amazing food, art and design. Part of the challenge is finding the time, there’s so much to see and a week just won't cut it!
Can you tell us something you discovered recently?
I love Etsy for discovering unique interior pieces at good price points. I like Foundryman for affordable brass hardware, Lampmakers for bobbin and faux bamboo lighting and Indian Stores for block printed fabric.
On a different note, a recent discovery for me was the renowned gardens at Stourhead which we visited on the way back from holiday in Cornwall. I've been longing to see them for years and they didn't disappoint. Designed in the 18th century, the picturesque garden is landscaped around a large lake with Italian temples and bridges and a grotto from which to stop and take in the view. Each vista is like looking at a painting which changes with the seasons.
What is the best part of your job?
The wonderful people I encounter every day in the design world. I’m constantly inspired by these brilliant, often very entrepreneurial creatives. It is an industry built on passion and I love it.
Which shoes do you love this season?
The Naxos is a playful take on a classic, great dressed up or equally good dressed down with jeans; they are so versatile and comfortable.
