What attracted you to hotels?
I fell into hotels! I was a medical doctor when my husband and his family found the property. As a family start-up, it was all hands on deck so I ended up doing all the interior design, despite no former experience. After seeing my work, I was approached by an interior design company to work for them, and I was their lead hotel designer for a year. By that time, Hampton Manor needed more creative input, so I joined my husband, James, full time and together we completely reimagined the hotel offering to create the food and design led experience that now epitomises Hampton Manor.
What do you enjoy most about your industry?
In our busy modern lives, it's rare for people to be really present to each other. When they're coming away together for a special stay, we get the privilege of holding that moment. I love having the opportunity to create a path for people to enter into discovery, delight and joy.
Biggest achievement to date?
Designing our newest restaurant with rooms, Grace & Savour. Guests often comment on the tangible sense of peace and serenity that the space gives them. For me, design is all about a sense of context - a invitation into the deeper values of a place, articulated through atmosphere rather than words.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Don't be so worried about the end point. When I was in my 20s, I wanted a clear idea of what I was going to be so I could aim myself at it. If it wasn't for my very persuasive husband, I'd probably be a creatively frustrated medic still! Take opportunities when they come.... you never know where they may lead.
What makes staying at Hampton Manor so special?
We always think beyond simply dinner, bed and breakfast. With our two acclaimed restaurants, food demos, wine tastings and walled garden, we tend towards a more curated stay. Guests know what they want - but they don't always know what they need to truly unwind and connect. Merely switching off isn't always the answer! Through our 'meet the maker' demos and tastings where guests get a short hands-on dabble, we reconnect guests with their, often forgotten, child-like sense of curiosity. We love seeing the energy it creates and its always so much more memorable to have gotten behind-the-scenes and off-the-beaten track.
Where’s your favourite place to stay in the UK?
To be honest, I tend to have to get into work mode when I’m in hotels. So, a holiday cottage with a view is my cup of tea.
Who’s your biggest influence?
Those closest to me, whose lives I can observe and learn from.
Where’s a place you’d like to visit but haven’t yet?
If I hadn't ended up at a country estate in the West Midlands, I'd probably most liked to be given the brief for a back-to-nature, off grid concept! I feel most at peace when I'm in nature, so I'd love to visit Fforest or Elmley Nature Reserve.
