Coffee With Nicky Kinnaird
of Space NK

Nicky Kinnaird, founder of Space NK lives in Kensington with her partner. Having travelled the world extensively, Nicky continues to source hand-picked and carefully edited selections of niche brands. Since opening the first Space NK store in Covent Garden in 1993, there are now 60 stores nationwide and four in the US.

We had a coffee with Nicky to find out what inspired her to set up her own business, dig deep about her shopping habits and discover where she likes to shop online.

What inspired you to create Space NK?
I was dissastified with what what was out there in the beauty world. Department stores were the place to go if you wanted good quality beauty products, but they were always badly lit with disinterested sales assistants, and trying to pander to everybody, rather than catering to the individual customer's needs.

What I wanted to create was very much my own dream store, which would house the very best of beauty together under one roof so beauty-lovers could see the latest and greatest beauty products by visiting one, trusted boutique.

There are so many incredible niche brands created by people that are passionate about what they do, and I wanted to bring them to people equally passionate about beauty.

What makes your product unique?
I think it’s a combination of edited product selection, unbiased service, expert advice and trust. It takes time to earn trust and I think after 15 years we’ve got it.

How do you get a good work/life balance?
Good question! I think planning my day helps. I get up at 5.30 in the morning for a bit of 'me' time, whether it’s a run in the park, a game of tennis or the gym. Then I can get on with my day and hopefully not get away too late.

What’s your best selling product/label?
I’d say our number one best seller is the Eve Lom Cleanser; it’s a great multi tasker because it removes make up, cleanses and tones.

Other than that the By Terry Light Expert does very well because it banishes signs of tiredness and gives instant radiance and health, Nars Multiple and the Zelens Eye Cream.

How would you characterise your fashion style?
I’m big on accessories! Because I now have to travel so much I’ve realised the importance of re-accessorising outfits at the drop of a hat.

I dress quite simply and then use little extras to change my outfit and make it look like I have more to choose from in my suitcase than I actually do.

Who would you say is your style icon?
I don’t have one in particular but I think Rania of Jordan always looks so pulled together, and obviously Coco Chanel - I love the way she broke out of the mould.

Who is your favourite designer?
Marni and Jil Sander.

Where do you buy your knitwear and why?
I’m funny with scratchy wool - I just can’t deal with it. I think it’s come from being forced to wear chill-proof vests as a child!

As a result I now have very expensive taste and only really wear fine gauge cashmere knits but they’re very difficult to find. Jil Sander does the most amazing range which I’m forever buying from.

Heels or flats and where do you buy them?
It’s flats for pounding the pavements in the day and heels for night. Most of my shoes are from Louboutin or Tods.

Do you eat organic and live an eco-conscious lifestyle?
I’m very lucky because I live just round the corner from Whole Foods, so yes, as most of my shopping is done there I do eat organic.

Do you ever buy food online?
I used to buy more food online until my delivery scheduled for 9 o’clock in the morning arrived at 12 o’clock at night!

I still think it’s great for buying household products but when it comes to fruit and veg, I much prefer to choose them myself.

What beauty products are currently in your bathroom cabinet?
A lot! There are products that I use generally and things that I’m testing as well, so I’m never short of products!

The things I can’t live without though are Kiehls Extra Strength Conditioning Rinse With Coconut – I panic if it’s not with me when I’m travelling – Natura Bisse SPF 30+ Sun Defense because I go nut brown at the drop of a hat, and Space NK Laughter Body Lotion - it moisturises really deeply but soaks in quickly which I love because I hate that sticky feeling some moisturisers leave you with.

What’s your signature fragrance?
Space NK Champacker - it reminds me of when I was young.

Which skincare brand do you depend on?
It’s a mix of products. I love Kate Somerville for her Total Vitamin Antioxidant Face Serum, Zelens Eye Cream and Eve Lom Cleanser.

What are your three must-have make up products?
Definitely eyebrow pencil – it’s an absolute must have for me and I don’t feel I’m ready until I’ve got shape over my eyes. By Terry Baume de Rose is also another must-have, especially when I’m outside running or playing tennis because it really does stop my lips getting dry.

How would you describe the style of your home?
Minimal but textured – texture is very important to me and I think finishes really make a home.

My bathroom is probably the focus of my home. It’s a real mix of stone and glass with a big Japanese soaking bath; I could happily spend my life in there.

Where do you buy your furniture and home accessories?
I tend to buy a lot of my furniture in Milan and when it comes to linen it has to be Frette - I’m a bit of a bathroom junkie.

What was the last thing you put on your credit card?
My last indulgence was actually a shirt from Jil Sander... again! It’s very simple - white with a bow at the neck - but it’s lovely.

And finally, where else do you love to indulge?
Amazon, definitely - I spend a fortune on it. I’m a big coffee table book person and love anything photographic or arty.

I also love Net a Porter, Browns and iTunes.

Please login below: