My London: Amanda Levete

Home is…

Islington, with my husband Ben. I moved from west to north for love. From the outside it’s a modest Georgian terraced house — you have no idea that there is a double height, top-lit space I designed behind it.

Best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?

‘You know that funny oval shaped building at Lord’s cricket ground? That’s my favourite piece of architecture.’

Last play you saw?

My son Josef took me to The Brothers Size at the Young Vic. It was an astounding, very physical piece of theatre — I came out moved and elated. Brilliant performances by Sope Dirisu and Jonathan Ajayi, and their duetting of Otis Redding’s ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ was sublime.

If you could buy any London building, which would it be?

Apsley House, No 1 London. When driving past with my young son, we used to fantasise about it being our home. It’s a spectacular site with commanding views across Hyde Park Corner. Inside, I would make it all about modernity to counterbalance the grandeur of its exterior.

Ever had a run-in with a policeman?

I once shadowed Chief Superintendent Dal Babu. We drove the wrong way up one-way streets to an emergency and checked in with a police station to discuss a gang situation.

What is your biggest extravagance?

Starched linen napkins at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Who is your hero?

Richard Rogers (below). He was my boss, then my mentor and now a dear friend. His intellectual approach, his knowledge of history, his ability to inspire and his humanity have been a big influence on me. He told me if you create the right culture in your office, the work will look after itself — and he’s right.

Which shops do you rely on?

Santa Maria Novella for Acqua di Sicilia and Tabacco Toscano eau de colognes (left). I wear one on the wrist and the other on the back of the neck — a great tip from the sales assistant. Also Michanicou Bros in Holland Park for fruit and veg, and for reminding me of my days in Notting Hill.

Most iconic Londoner?

Like most Londoners, Lord Michael Young was born elsewhere but made the city his home. He was an innovative thinker who against all odds brought many of his ideas to life: the Open University, NHS Direct and after-school clubs.

Best meal you’ve had?

Dinner at Farang, a Thai restaurant with a British chef that has popped up in an Italian taverna near the old Arsenal stadium. This bizarre mix makes for the best Thai food (above) outside of Bangkok — and it’s eye-wateringly spicy.

What are you up to at the moment?

Working on a subway station in Naples in collaboration with Anish Kapoor and also on a competition to reimagine the visitor experience of the Eiffel Tower in anticipation of the 2024 Olympics.