While we're always reluctant to blow our own trumpets here at humble Willow & Hall HQ, we have to concede that when it comes to accommodating extra houseguests at home we're well within our area of expertise. In fact, should we ever find ourselves sitting in the hallowed Mastermind chair we'd wager this would be our specialist subject (and we'd put bets on us acing every question). You see, we've made it our business (nay the very purpose of our existence) to make sure that houseguests up and down the country are made to feel perfectly at home when they're spending the night away with friends and family. Which got us thinking… if we could have anyone, past or present, as a guest in our own home, who out of everyone in the big wide world would we want? Here's how a handful of team W&H answered that million dollar question…
Victoria Ziemniak, Marketing Executive
Kevin McCloud
My ultimate houseguest would be Kevin McCloud from Grand Designs. Why? I absolutely love watching his show in the evenings when trying to wind down from work. But that’s not the only reason. As I recently moved home, I am fully aware of the difficulties of trying to turn a house into a loving home, which is why I could really use his expertise. For now, I guess I will have to continue trying…
Brendon Shepherd, Head of Operations & Insight
Professor Stephen Hawking
Life and our existence in the universe is something that has fascinated man since the dawn of time and it would be amazing to spend a moment of that with one of the greatest minds of our generation.
Liam Robinson, Customer Services & Operations Executive
David Attenborough
My perfect houseguest would be David Attenborough. His voice is so relaxing and he would have so many stories to tell, I could listen to him for hours!
Geoff Shipgood, Customer Service & Operations Executive
Dawn French & Jennifer Saunders
I’ve bent the rules a little and picked Britain’s best female double act, call me greedy, but why not get two for the price of one! I’d love to invite this comedic pair over for a cheeky glass of bubbly, I reckon we’d have a right laugh! Plus, Jennifer could tell me what AbFab’s Patsy & Eddie might think about how I’ve styled my lounge!
Anna Merluzzi, Customer Services & Operations Executive
Massimo Bottura (world’s best chef 2016)
He’s not only a terrific chef who reinvented and revolutionised Italian cuisine, but also a great inspiration. Despite the Italian food critics trying to destroy his reputation because he was trying to innovate and change one of the most traditional Italian dishes, he went against the odds and made his mark in Italian cuisine history by becoming the world’s best chef. His story is a constant reminder that if you believe in yourself, anything is possible.
So there you have it. From famous chefs who tickle our taste buds, to comedy double-acts who tickle our funny bones. We actually wouldn't mind getting the entire group around the table together - now that would make for a night to remember! If you have houseguests (real or imaginary) you need to accommodate in the near future, talk to us about the ways you can maximize your living space to get the best solution to suit your needs. After all, a great guestroom should be one that works for you as well as when visitors come to stay. You can see our full range of sofa beds or bedstead styles on our website or talk to our customer service team for their recommendations on 020 8939 3800 or via our contact-us form.
Kind regards,
The Willow & Hall team