Conversations over Matcha is a series dedicated to exploring the daily rituals of friends of Maiasa within the beauty, well-being, and design industry. Join us as we step into the intimate spaces of their homes, where shared moments over matcha become a backdrop for candid discussions about routines, self-care, and the nuanced perspectives on maintaining balance in life.
Today we speak with designer, creative and founder of House of Grey, Louisa Grey.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself
A: I am Louisa Grey, founder of Circular Salutogenic Interior Design Studio House of Grey. I am a mother, designer, creative and business owner. After having worked at several companies I could see how processes, projects and renovations could be created in a much more positive, crafted way – so I set up House of Grey. The brand was born whilst I was 3 months pregnant with my son. I had designed two restaurants and a private residential home and I felt there was another way to build and design; one with less impact on the earth and more health benefits for its inhabitants. I had issues conceiving and this led me on a natural path of acupuncture, Chinese herbs and a realisation that the old, traditional ways of living should make space for a new way of living – simple, healthy and free of chemicals, toxins and pollutants. I am very much someone that loves creating and that gives me a huge amount of joy.
Q: What does well-being mean to you?
A: I personally try to avoid using the word well-being as I feel it has been overused in recent years and many now use it to green wash or as a marketing tool. In our studio workshop we focus on balance, contentment and that sweet spot of just being in your flow – this means to me: internal peace, knowing that everything is ok and that all shall pass.
Q: What is your favourite way to start your day?
A: To me the greatest luxury of all is time, therefore starting my day doing some yoga at home followed by a bath in my bedroom which overlooks the trees is a complete luxury. It’s definitely not something which happens everyday which is what makes it all the more special.
Q: What everyday rituals do you practice to improve your overall well-being?
A: I practice gratitude on a daily basis. I am definitely one of life’s optimists and focus on the good in all situations, I think that being grateful for what we already have is so important for having a positive mindset. I manifest with my journalling which allows me to concentrate on what I would like to achieve, that way I am constantly evolving and making adjustments to my life. Thinking about what I would like from each day, week or even year, imagining it and making it seem real so that it gives me direction. I truly believe that having a purpose is what gives us a feeling of inner joy.
Q: Which space or place makes you feel most at home?
A: The Home of Holism is my home and interior design studio space. It completely embodies our Circular Salutogenic Design principles, and it feels like the culmination of our work as a studio. The energy here is so wonderful and allows me to consider all my choices in life.
Q: What do you do to unwind?
A: As mentioned above, my daily time out ritual is to have a bath in the master bedroom and if it I am unable to in the morning, I make space for it in the evening with candles. It shifts me, allowing me to download and self regulate myself whilst not feeling like I am in London. When I want to change my energy or the atmosphere of a space I try to think about how all of my senses are being stimulated through the lighting, scents and also aurally. Dimming the lights, lighting an incense and putting on a soundscape of binaural beats to lower my vibrations, all have a profound effect on how I feel. It is how I self regulate.
It makes such a huge difference on my stress levels and mood.
Q: What is your favourite place for well-being?
A: I think probably the Norfolk beaches near my parents house, the endless golden sand and vast amount of space let’s my mind truly pause and take a break. As soon as I arrive I feel an innate sense of calm.
Q: How do you take your matcha?
A: I am a keen potter and have made matcha beakers which I adore using and I make my matcha with creamy almond milk.
