Pontine is a London-based Scandinavian designer and entrepreneur. Originally from Norway, she is widely noted for her art, handbags and as founder the cult cosmetics brand, Dr.Lipp. The idea for Dr.Lipp was born in the lobby of the Savoy Hotel in Milan, whilst Pontine was on a design trip for her handbag line, and the concept took off immediately. Launching in Space.NK nationwide in October of 2004, Dr.Lipp quickly became one of its best-selling hero products, and pioneered the glamorous side of the natural beauty movement, of which it is still a prominent champion to this day. Pontine splits her time between London, Norway and Verbier and spends most of her free time ski touring in the Alps, if not working on new creative projects.
We caught up with Pontine for the latest in our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
In London? Notting Hill, without a doubt – there’s nothing quite like it. However if the question were favourite place in the world, it would have to be Verbier!
Favourite place for brunch:
Granger & co in Notting Hill. I love that it’s based around that very Australian ethos of creating good, natural food that is quite healthy without sacrificing the taste!
Best coffee in London:
I can’t say I’m the right person to ask! Give me tea or juice anytime, but not coffee! Yuck!
Favourite gallery or museum:
The Serpentine Gallery. I love the walk there, the size, the art, the building. I could go on! I also adore the program overall, and especially the new CEO, Yana.
Tell us a secret:
Gosh, I don’t know if I have any! I’m very open.
Favourite place to shop:
Milan. I studied design there at University, and find it such a creative and inspiring place to be. Corso Como 10 and Louisa Beccaria are my two favourite destinations – I cant live without visiting them once a year now. If in London, it’s Selfridges. Right round the corner from my office, and they have practically everything!
Favourite place to find inspiration:
My dreams. I spend a lot of time with my eyes closed visualising. I’ve even done a Monroe course on astral travelling, so you can just imagine. Otherwise the wonders of nature do it for me. Love undersea documentaries. The creations there are just amazing!
Best London destination for a date:
Hmmm, the park… especially in the summer. Walking and talking is soo much better that sitting down opposite each other. And you can always have a roll in the grass if that feels right, too!
Favourite park:
Hyde Park, it is beautiful.
Favourite food market:
Stockholm has the best one I’ve ever been to, but in London I settle for the weekend market on Pimlico Road, Belgravia. Nothing beats fresh, organic produce.
Your sanctuary in the city:
My own bed, with my boyfriend and my dog Daniel. Also love The Life Centre where I do Yoga regularly, and even sound baths or meditations.
What inspires you?
Colours. Science. Dreams.
This season I’m loving:
Homemade curries, which I just taught myself how to make. I’m also loving the fresh flowers I just planted in my flower pots – hyacinth, and primroses. Can’t wait for the spring snow in Verbier!
