My Chiswick: The artisans and innovators shaping the local scene

Nick Gowing, co-founder of ng architecture

For the small but mighty team behind ng architecture, less is more. Founded by Nick and Charlotte Gowing, the duo are intentionally selective about the projects they work on. “We don’t take on very many projects, which allows us to give each client the time and attention they deserve,” says Nick. “We design to the client’s brief, rather than our own, so their house will feel like theirs.”

The Gowing’s own home in Chiswick exemplifies this philosophy. A personal sanctuary, it provides a place for the family to escape from the everyday. “The internal spaces flow beautifully, and the transition between indoors and out is almost seamless. As soon as our gates close behind you, the frenetic energy of London evaporates.”

For Nick, Chiswick strikes a rare balance – offering the cultural richness of London while still enjoying the warmth and familiarity of village life – the hallmarks of which he ticks off, including independent shops, flower stalls and the capital’s only cheese market. Parks and riverside walks raise the dial on the bucolic charm further. “Most importantly, it has a strong sense of community,” he reflects. “You can say hello to people you vaguely recognise without raising eyebrows.”

Ideal weekend in Chiswick? “Getting bread from Ole & Steen, and bacon from Wyndham House for a bacon sandwich at home. Then taking the dog for a walk along the Thames or around Chiswick House before chilling around our pool or in the garden if the weather is glorious. Or heading to The Chiswick Cinema if it isn’t and ending up at TORTHAI for supper, or Silver Birch if it’s a special occasion.”

Ant Duckworth, founder of Dear Coco

What began as a tribute to Ant Duckworth’s youngest daughter has grown into a beloved coffee truck empire just four years later, curbing the caffeine cravings of locals far beyond its riverside roots/ drawing a local crowd far beyond its riverside roots in Chiswick. “We feel so fortunate to be called an icon in the world of coffee trucks from a design, aesthetic, customer and barista experience standpoint,” says Ant, reflecting on the brand’s meteoric rise.

Dear Coco’s birthplace was no accident. “I’ve lived in Chiswick for eight years and I used to sit on the river wall and imagine a beautiful little coffee truck adding magic to the local community,” he recalls. For Ant, Strand on the Green is hallowed ground. “I wanted to create a place where people could slow down, speak to strangers and enjoy a world-class brew. It’s a special place.”

Originally from Australia, Ant left life down under over 15 years ago, finding a sense of belonging in Chiswick. “We spend lazy weekends along Turnham Green Terrace, and also love the tree-lined, wide pavements of Chiswick High Road, which encourage restaurants and cafes to spill out. It’s a vibrant and exciting place to relax,” he reflects. “Chiswick will always represent the part of the world our family grew up together – we couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.”

Favourite local hotspots? “Start the day at The Elder Press Cafe along historic Chiswick Mall for brunch followed by a morning brew at our original Strand on the Green coffee truck. Then onto Napoli on the Road on Devonshire Road for a pizza and finish up at D Grande on Chiswick High Road for an after-hours picante.”

Ilona Pacia, director at Villa di Geggiano

For over a decade, Villa di Geggiano has brought a slice of Tuscany to West London. Set against Chiswick’s leafy backdrop, the Italian restaurant is an outpost of the Bianchi Bandinelli family’s historic wine producing estate, celebrating authentic Tuscan cuisine alongside a deep-rooted appreciation for art.

At the helm is director, art curator and Chiswick local Ilona Pacia, who has overseen the restaurant’s evolution into a creative sanctuary. “It’s very much about the artists that we love and support,” she explains. “Chiswick is a tight-knit, creative community with numerous local events that bring people together – a place to create, grow, and celebrate creativity.”

Villa di Geggiano has blossomed into a hub for an ever-growing community of designers, musicians and filmmakers, drawn to its unique blend of Italian warmth and artistic energy. While creativity flourishes, food remains firmly at the heart of the experience. Ingredients are sourced directly from the family’s Tuscan villa and nearby farms, ensuring a true taste of Italy.

But it’s the restaurant’s setting that makes the experience even more distinctive. “With its unique village atmosphere, independent shops, cafes and family-friendly vibe – and being so well connected to Central London – Chiswick is a perfect union of creativity, culture and community, and we couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it,” enthuses Ilona.

What does a day off look like for you? “I start the day hunting for treasures at the Chiswick Antique Market, followed by lunch and a cocktail or two at Villa di Geggiano. I’ll round off a relaxing afternoon with a rejuvenating infrared light therapy session at SweatLounge.”

Caroline Milns, co-founder of Zulufish

For over 20 years, West London-based Zulufish has carved out a reputation as one of the capital’s leading design and build firms, led by founders Caroline and Felix Milns from their remodelled Victorian villa in Chiswick.

“We offer a truly joined-up service, from concept to completion,” says Caroline. “What sets us apart is not just the range of skills under one roof, but how closely we collaborate with our clients to bring their vision to life.”

The local connection is another differentiator. Whether breathing new life into the area’s period homes or designing contemporary extensions, the focus remains on creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. “We don’t do cookie-cutter. Every home is a reflection of the people who live in it,” she adds. “We listen, interpret, and design with purpose.”

Zulufish’s roots in the area run deep. “Chiswick is in our blood – we’ve launched our business here, raised our children here, and made lifelong friends.”

The best thing about Chiswick? “Its relaxed village feel, despite being just a short hop from Central London. We love Chiswick’s wonderful community, the constantly evolving high road and the plethora of great green spaces. There’s so much to do. We spend the weekends at our local favourites Chiswick House, The Whistling Oyster and the bustling Sunday cheese market.”

Jason Wheeler, co-founder of Wheelers of Chiswick

Horticulturally speaking, Chiswick owes much to brothers Jason and Spencer Wheeler, who have been serving the area’s green fingered residents since 1991 at their family-run garden centre. From carefully curated blooms to full-scale garden transformations, Jason and Spencer’s dedication to quality and community has seen Wheelers blossom into a Chiswick staple. “Our flagship garden centre is right beside Turnham Green Tube station, which is a fantastic location, not just for convenience but because it sits at the heart of the community,” Jason explains. “We wanted a spot that was easy for locals to drop in, whether they’re picking up a bunch of flowers, looking for gardening inspiration or just enjoying the atmosphere.”

The Wheeler brothers have cultivated more than just plants – they’ve nurtured a deep connection with the neighbourhood. “It’s about serving the community with old-fashioned family values,” says Jason. “Over the years, we’ve built a reputation for personal service, whether that’s putting together bespoke floral arrangements, helping customers choose the right plants for their gardens, or transforming outdoor spaces with our landscaping services. We respect every customer who walks through our doors, ensuring they receive the best care and attention.”

Why Chiswick? “It’s always been a place where people appreciate green spaces, gardens and community life, which is probably why Wheelers has thrived here for so long. Despite its growth, Chiswick has managed to keep its village charm, with independent businesses, historic pubs and a real sense of neighbourhood spirit. We’ve always felt at home here.”