Mel Pearson-Wright: The place you breathe a sigh of relief when you get to
The #LoveHome Project is all about finding out what makes a house a home. Mel Pearson-Wright is the master chef behind PW Pantry, an online blog that specialises in feel-good food that’s semi-good for you. In other words; the ideal combination. Whether she’s experimenting with gluten and wheat-free recipes or indulging her sweet tooth, Mel understands and appreciates the importance of home cooking. By day she works amid the hustle and bustle of The City and in her spare time she is currently studying for a Nutritional Therapist Accreditation, to supplement her passion. #LoveHome spoke to Mel to find out how she cooks up the perfect storm in her home.
Where is home?
That is a question I often ask myself. But home to me is currently in Battersea, South West London.
What does home mean to you?
The place you breathe a sigh of relief when you get to. Your place, your space, your sanctuary, where you can relax and nest.
What are your abiding memories of your childhood home?
Playing in our big garden with my little sister and brother making them believe I was the Queen of the Fairy Kingdom for years. Climbing trees at the end of the garden, bouncing on the trampoline or playing with our dog.
What is your favourite room in your home?
The kitchen of course. Mine is open plan which I love, so I can be pottering around trying out different recipes whilst still being in the mix of the living room, listening to music and chatting to my boyfriend or guests we have over.
What do you miss most when you are away from your home and is there a smell that immediately takes you back?
I love being away and very much feel at home when I am abroad, but coming back to your little haven is always comforting. I always burn White Company Seychelles candles and room sprays, so when that smell hits me after a long haul flight, I know I’m finally home. I think everyone has a smell that is evocative of home, and that is definitely mine.
If money was no object what would you do to your home?
If I had unlimited budget I would extend it, in every way. And maybe transport it to a beautiful ocean view! I’m going to run away with this for a bit but if money was no object I would be pitching for a bigger bedroom with a huge en-suite and a free standing bath. A massive kitchen with a big island in the middle, so I could be cooking away whilst all my friends sit around a huge wooden table waiting for a meal to share. And a home cinema too, that would be ideal please.
Does cooking play a part in your home?
I adore cooking on so many levels. Sometimes it’s just a relaxing, therapeutic activity alone and to wind down after a busy day. At other times it’s such fun busily creating big dishes to share with your friends and family. I love to hear the compliments come rolling in but there is also something very homely about food and friendship, and the mutual enjoyment of both.
How do you make a happy home?
A happy home has lots of natural sunlight, open windows with a breeze, and the smell of something baking in the oven. That, and your loved ones around you, together relaxing.
How has your home evolved?
I was the first person to live in my current home, so I have loved having the freedom to style it exactly how I like. I have kept everything very neutral with lots of light greys and whites, but it’s been fun to choose every bit from the curtain fabric to carpenters for cupboards — anything that makes your home your own.
What one piece of advice would you give to someone looking to brighten up their home?
Flowers, Flowers, Flowers! As much natural light as possible, and then as many bunches as you can fit in your house. Anything natural and alive will automatically make it feel more fresh and like a home.
Follow Mel on Instagram, Twitter or visit PWPantry.com
