Located south of London near Croydon, Mayfield's lavender story is attributed to Brendan Maye, who managed the fragrance division of Wella UK. He wanted to grow lavender to solidify the brand and leased this field, working with an environmental charity to plant the lavender. Maye eventually bought the farm and handed it to his wife to manage.
A long walk from Osterley station on the Piccadilly Line, including through a vast section of green space, Osterley House was the party palace for the Child family in the late 18th century.
Designed by Robert Adam down to the smallest details, what we see today has replaced a Tudor house built in the late 16th century. Sir Francis Child bought the property in 1713 and his grandson set off to transform the site into a grand mansion.
The family wealth came from banking, just like today's top echelon in the financial services industry who have way more money in their wallets than they need.
The entrance hall has a Roman flavour with expensive French Grey walls as well as design furniture that only fits this room's dimensions.
The Long Gallery showcases green pea coloured walls and plenty of paintings and chinoiserie artifacts, which were popular during the 18th century. The room is so long that it took up to 3 days to wax and polish the floor.
Continuing, the next few rooms are under renovation with many furniture packed up to protect them from construction. The Drawing Room was used to relax after dinner, such as playing cards or playing music. Up above, the ceiling is based on the Temple of the Sun from ancient Syria, a mid-1760s design. The old curtains have also been taken down and put into display cases.
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