How Does Alex Eagle Live A Life In Balance?

The London-based designer is creative director of Alex Eagle Studio, Eagle + Hodges and 180 The Thames, a new space encompassing apartments and river lofts, Corner Shop gourmet grocery and cafe, a health club and the St Clement Hotel, Nick Jones’ first project outside Soho House, opening this year.

She tells Lucinda Baring how she lets her hair down – by drinking a cold beer from the bottle and dancing with her children – and the sage advice she swears by.

First thing in the morning I… turn off my alarm, wake the kids and make a celery juice.

I am grounded by… my kids and a good walk in the park or forest. Working with my partner Sophie Hodges at 180 The Thames also helps. There’s something about working while watching the water.

I feel unhinged when… I don’t get into nature. Living in Soho means I need to check in and go in search of it, even just to lean against a tree or feel my feet against the earth, before I go bonkers.

I let my hair down by… drinking a cold beer from the bottle and dancing with my kids.

I escape to… the Royal Opera House and becoming immersed into a great opera or ballet. The absolute dream for me. Getting dressed up and indulging in the whole wonderfulness of it.

My relationship with my phone is… desperately dependent. I barely sit at a desk or open my laptop – everything happens on my phone.

I am grateful for… many things. An amazing childhood that gave me the opportunity to dream; my husband, who gives me confidence in what I do; the extraordinary people I get to collaborate with and my team at Alex Eagle Studio, who make it all possible; and my friends, who bring so much joy and connection. But mainly my three little brats Jack, Coco and Luke, and my stepdaughters Liberty and Scarlett.

My greatest vice is… drinking beer straight from the bottle.

I treat myself by… making time for myself. I’ll go to 180 Health Club and see Josie for my mind; I’ll see Lola my personal trainer for a pilates training mix; and for my soul I work with life coach Lynn Jinks. I love facials and massages. Time alone is a great treat.

I really can’t stand… a snob.

I wish I could… speak Italian.

My greatest luxury is.. getting to do what I love every day. And tennis lessons.

I had an ah-ha moment when… I had my first son Jack.

Last thing at night I… take magnesium.

I will pay it forward by… I am a true believer in karma but also in doing kind things and expecting nothing in return.

A wise person once told me… guilt is a supreme waste of time and energy.