From hidden-gems to places to people-watch, from bookshops to beauty spots – The Five at Five offers some post-lockdown inspiration that celebrates the independents.
This week’s selection has been handpicked by Davy Pittoors, an interiors curator and dealer in objects with a special interest in queer history and domesticity. Based between London and Margate, the Belgium-born creative developed his eye for the unconventional while on childhood trips to flea markets around the Flemish countryside. However, his flair for styling was honed through his years working as a visual merchandiser for Louis Vuitton.
Davy started his own business back in 2018, and offers one-to-one visual guidance for small creative businesses and individuals. He sources rare and obscure objects, which he combines to create unique, atmospheric interiors expressing the character and personality of his clients.
FOR FOOD
For lunch I'd say Dory's in Margate, it's delicious but casual with a menu that depends on the daily catch and what's available at the small farms they source from.
For drinks I love a hotel bar, The Standard opposite Kings Cross in London is always a safe bet.
When in Venice we always stop by Orient Experience, the food is fantastic and their geographically diverse menu represents the fact that the restaurant is owned and staffed by people who've migrated to Europe from all over the world.
FOR PEOPLE-WATCHING
I'd definitely say Sunbury Antiques Market at the Kempton Park Racecourse on a Tuesday morning. I love going to flea markets to treasure hunt but overhearing the stories and banter between dealers and spotting interior designers, sassy Instagram re-sellers, collectors and old-school antique dealers elbowing each other for a bargain is well worth the 5am wake-up alarm!
FOR BOOKS
I really admire Gay's The Word, it was set up in 1979 by a group of gay socialists as a community space where all profits were funneled back into the business, and they've continued this ethos today. Not only is it a safe space to find resources and information but it's also a place where the LGBTQ+ community can come together.
Recently, a friend of mine also made me aware of One Grand Books in Narrowsburg, New York. It's a curated bookstore in which celebrated thinkers, writers, artists, and other creative minds share the ten books they would take to their metaphorical desert island, so that's definitely on my post-pandemic travel list.
FOR WELLNESS
The best spot to clear my mind and relax would be the beach, the English or Belgian coast in winter and any Mediterranean island in summer. Hydra is a particular favourite of mine or the nude-(ish) rock beaches on Jerolim island near Hvar in Croatia are amazing too.
Post-pandemic I'm also keen to try a treatment at Haeckels in Margate.
FOR SHOPPING
For antiques, vintage and bric-à-brac I'd say Paris, Les Puces de Saint-Ouen is amazing and worth a full day exploring.
For small galleries and independent shops I'd say Rye, McCully & Crane is a must-visit for paintings, art and beautiful objects.
For atmosphere and the most exceptional curation of antiques and household items, I'd highly recommend A.G. Hendy & Co in Hastings.