Royal fave Nicky Haslam on fakes, Meghan, and what's common

Nicky Haslam, an 86-year-old icon of interior design, invites a look into his taste-filled Cotswolds home, a space adorned with personal touches and a playful spirit. His illustrious career has seen him design for prominent figures including royalty and musicians such as the King and Sir Mick Jagger. His distinctive style extends to his interactions with the elite; he once sent a miniature corgi to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, a gesture that elicited amusement and a thankful note.

Haslam, whose mother was a royal courtier, has a well-documented appreciation for the artificial. He admits to a "sneaking love of fakes," finding manufactured items and personas more engaging than their serious counterparts. This sentiment is reflected in his annual "things that Nicky Haslam finds common" tea towel, which lists his current pet peeves and amusing observations.

Beyond design, Haslam has explored a career as a singer, releasing albums of jazz and musical-theatre covers. He maintains friendships with various celebrities, including Ringo Starr and Bob Geldof. Haslam also notably admires Meghan Markle, finding her approach, though "foolish," to be gutsy and amusing, contributing to Prince Harry's happiness.