Batul Loomans is the founder of jewellery and lifestyle brand Buddha to Buddha. In 1997, Batul travelled to South East Asia in search of enlightenment. At the end of this life changing trip, he had a heavy bracelet made to remind himself to forever stay grounded, mentally and physically. It was at this moment that Buddha to Buddha was born and the core of the brand came to life.
We caught up with Batual Loomans for the latest edition of our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite neighbourhood:
My favourite neighbourhood is, without a doubt, Wimbledon. Not solely because of the area per sae, but because of the memories I’ve created there. A few years ago I offered Raymond Sluiter (a then-famous Dutch tennis player) a few meditation sessions. As a thank you he took me to his next tennis match. A huge fan of pro tennis in my youth, getting to see the professionals playing on the holy grass of Wimbledon was a dream come true.
Favourite place for brunch:
I’ve got a few places in mind but am looking forward to some new inspiration. In a few weeks we’re visiting Flannels – one of our stockists in the city – so will be able to report back then!
Best coffee in London:
I’ve got a penchant for a Chai Latte and just as with the aforementioned brunch search, am looking forward to trying out some new places when we’re in town.
Favourite gallery or museum:
I’m super exited to head to the Design Museum in London which has an exhibition about fashion culture over the last 30 years. Buddha to Buddha is based in Amsterdam and has been making handmade Jewellery for 30 years – we therefore have a deep interest and understanding of fashion history in the Netherlands. Now we can have a more detailed look at English history at this exhibit – can’t wait.
Tell us a secret:
The biggest secret in life is that we are not our thoughts, we are made out of silence and love. I am a great believer in meditation; indeed it forms part of Buddha To Buddhas ethos, and I believe meditation can bring anyone to a state of pure bliss. Therefore, meditation [and everything that moves me from that mindset] is the pure secret of life.
Favourite place to shop:
My favourite store to ever exist in London is Biba. Based in Kensington, back in the 60s and early 70s, it really was the ‘place to be’ and I remember going there with my family in 1992 at just seven years old. Nowadays I’m a fan of Harrods – entering this store is like walking into a fantasy world, where craft and show-stopping displays take centre stage.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
London museums provide great inspiration – I love to wander around in the British Museum, The National Gallery, or the Royal Botanic Gardens. Since my children are still young this is the time to introduce them to history and art – so, London is also on the hit list for a family trip next summer.
Best London destination for a date:
100% Wimbledon. To share your strawberries and watch a good game of tennis… What is more romantic than that?
Favourite park:
I used to do meditation classes near Hyde Park and during lunch break, we had time to meander round and take in the lush surroundings. In Amsterdam we have the famous Vondelpark to relax, but Hyde Park stole my heart with its huge walkways and water playgrounds.
Favourite food market:
First on my list is the Seven Dials Market – a tip from a dear friend. I’m on the hunt for enticing food, lively bars and a good bookshop.
Your sanctuary in the city:
The best sanctuary for me is my daily meditation practice, which I’ve learnt can even be done on the tube or at a restaurant if you’re focused enough. But I would love to meditate in the British Library one day. At least there I imagine it’s quiet!
What inspires you?
Everything that brings me into a space of quiet really inspires me. Currently, that is making art using trinkets found on the beach. I have been doing this for years already and I love that when I make art I can let my creativity flow, like ocean waves. Something about making and crafting – especially if it’s ad hoc and without structure – gives me a deep sense of connection and creativity. I also love taking a piece of paper and drawing a fresh idea for a ring or bracelet for Buddha To Buddha.
This season I’m loving…
Taking long walks through the dunes of Zandvoort, as I did this morning with my wife. No matter the weather [we had strong winds and heavy rain] throwing on a good coat with a hot chocolate in hand made it all worthwhile.
