Sense Check Q&A: Designer Victoria Ditting on the sights and smells that move her

What is the first thing you see in the morning?

Bright light! I turn on my full-spectrum light panel, which I keep next to my bed. It’s not very romantic, but it sets me up for the day.

Describe the view from where you are right now.

From my Barbican office, I look out onto Aldersgate Street in the City of London.

Is there a view you can’t quite forget?

The moss garden at Kyoto’s Saihō-ji Temple^®. I can’t describe it as anything else but enchanted. Located in a grove, the garden centres around the so-called Golden Pond. It feels as though time stands still when you’re standing by it.

Is there a particular artwork you always return to?

Study for Homage to the Square^®, a series of oil paintings by Josef Albers from the 1950s until the mid-1970s. Every time I see one, I’m in awe of the straightforwardness and clarity, but also its depth.

What was the last movie you watched and loved?

One Battle After Another by Paul Thomas Anderson. It was a standout.

What sound do you wake up to?

Unfortunately my iPhone’s alarm clock.

What sound would you like to wake up to?

In a dream world, the sound of chirping birds.

What gets you dancing?

Seeing a 1993 recording of George Michael perform Killer/Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone live at Wembley.

Which singer or song do you never tire of hearing?

Laraaji, the 82-year-young American pioneer of ambient music. His album Vision Songs is on repeat at my place. Simply dreamy and inspired.

Which smell takes you back to childhood?

Homemade gnocchi. My mum used to excel at making them when I was a child.

What do you smell of today?

Of the Gods Polygonum eau de parfum by To My Ships^®. It’s distinctive and bold but not overbearing.

What smell makes you feel at home?

Freshly changed bed sheets – with a spritz of Dans Ton Lit, the linen spray created by Dominique Ropion for Frederic Malle.

What is your earliest scent memory?

Being with my grandmother and aunt making chocolate truffles. I must have been around four.

Describe a dish that’s stayed with you.

Scottish scallops at the River Café for a lazy lunch. A simple dish focused on the ingredients.

What is the taste of spring?

Flat peaches.

Olive or a twist?

Depends on the mood.

What is a dish you love to cook for yourself?

Roasted delicata pumpkin with lentils, parsley and shallots is my go-to at the moment.

What is your signature dinner party dish?

There are different dishes on rotation, quite often Mediterranean-inspired. However, I’ve recently invited friends for dinner after perfecting my spätzle skills. Originating in southern Germany, it’s a homemade pasta dish served with caramelised onions and a variety of sautéed mushrooms.

What three ingredients would we find in your fridge?

Parmesan, eggs and Greek yogurt.

Silk or cashmere?

It used to be silk, but I’m in my cashmere phase.

Marble or wood?

Wood.

What does spring feel like?

Renewal.

What is your favourite piece of furniture at home?

A set of three Arts and Crafts shelves. I love their proportions, and they’re the perfect display for a combination of ceramics, glassware and books. I can’t see myself parting with them ever.