I’ve been in the trade man and boy for decades. In the showrooms of Grosvenor, buying is about more than comfort. Designers with clients in tow, and they all want a piece that speaks. A battered old wingback, tells the truth. There was a velvet sofa that went to a townhouse in Chelsea, and it carried his family through generations. That’s what vintage means. People wander past the big chains, but they always come back. Fabric frays fast, whereas retro lives on.

This city speaks through its homes. Chelsea wants polish, with velvet chairs. Brixton is bold, high-end living room sets with loud armchairs. That’s the reality. I’ve learnt over years, an armchair becomes memory. Modern factory pieces can’t compete. I still walk my warehouse floors, and I know straight away. Vintage has truth. When a showroom tempts you, stop. Find yourself a vintage sofa, and make it part of your Mayfair truth.