team
The Epicurean studio is made up of a tight knit and international team of architects, interior and FF&E designers. Our experienced and energetic team is abound with creative enthusiasm and unique ideas. As designers, we strive to look outside ourselves for fresh and innovative design interpretations, crafting design solutions that respond specifically to each project. We are passionate about people, places and food.
Find out about the team’s favourite and most inspiring people, places and food in their bios.
people
Who in the industry do you most admire and why?
Reading AA Gill’s restaurant reviews for the The Sunday Times’, ‘Style’ supplement as a teenager growing up in a rural community was one of the first glimpses I had into a life I then had little knowledge of. His English, acerbic wit was captivating and though his presence was likely dreaded by many chefs but his passion for food, drink and a convivial space enjoy both in, unquestionable.
places
Where is your favourite place to eat?
(One… pudding.)
The food was completely indulgent and tied in with the mood of the day and the simplicity of the interior. It was one of those magic moments when all the key ingredients, please pardon the pun, are aligned and it amplifies each element of the dining experience.
food
What’s your favourite meal?
I am incredibly appreciative and nostalgic about my Mum’s baking. In the north of England, we’re renowned for having a sweet tooth and my Mum is a real farmhouse cook. Feeding people and baking are second nature and there was a need at harvest time to provide for the helping hands who gathered in the crops. I remember the pride and precision that presided when my Mum and grandmother prepared sandwiches and three types of cake that were created every day! It was a rustic for of hospitality which has resonated with me since.
people
Who in the industry do you most admire and why?
A few years ago I spent some time in St Petersburg with Michel Roux looking at a project. He was very knowledgeable, down-to-earth and respectful of people in the industry. He shows that you can be incredibly successful yet remain humble.
places
Where is your favourite place to eat?
I had a fantastic dinner at Scully in St. James’s Market recently. There was a wonderful use of pickles that was quite different – the team created flavours I hadn’t experienced before. The open kitchen was a great experience, sitting and watching the chefs cook and interact with diners was memorable.
I’m a fan of Corbin and King. My taste is quite traditional and they create instant classics with their restaurants. Across the board, they’ve consistently been able to produce great spaces and food that have an old school charm.
food
What’s your favourite meal?
My Nan’s Christmas dinner – nothing beats it.
Jason O'Farrell
Senior Interior Designer
Jason O'Farrell, Senior Interior Designer
people
Who in the industry do you most admire and why?
William Lowe founded Cambridge Distillery and is a pioneering gin producer. He pushes the boundaries of what is possible with gin to achieve “outstanding” flavours. My personal favourite is Anty Gin; each bottle contains the essence of approximately 62 red wood ants and comes with a complimentary Ant Essence diffuser! Once tried, not forgotten.
places
Where is your favourite place to eat?
Lupins, London. The all-women owners and staff of this modern British restaurant serve stunning traditional British food with a globally-inspired twist. Even better, their food is accompanied by beautiful organic wines. Set over two floors, Lupins’ interiors cater to all: a large café style atmosphere on the ground floor and a stylish, yet cosy attic-style upstairs.
food
What’s your favourite meal?
Oysters @ fish! Borough Market: Hands down the most enjoyable oysters I have found in London so far… I am lover of these little gems in their layered shells. At fish! you get a good selection of different garnishes, but I have to say these are best natural.
