The beauty of floral design

We have proudly partnered with Pascal Lavorel, one of London's most exceptional floral designers, for the last 20 years. After working with interior designer Anushka Hempel, Pascal began creating beautiful arrangements and displays across our collection of hotels. Here, he shares what motivates him, both personally and professionally.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Difficult question! Does such a thing exist? Professionally, I'm lucky enough to create arrangements that are very visual. When successfully executed those trigger emotion and happiness for our clients. So I guess the perfect happiness is when the recipient of our work is satisfied and when we can see the emotion on their face. Flowers have a real power to make people happy, no matter how big or small the arrangements are.

What is your greatest fear?

To mess an order and disappoint a client. Flowers are all about happiness and positive emotions even on sad occasions.

Which living person do you most admire?

Besides from my wife... Over the last 30 years, I have been fortunate to be accepted into the Red Carnation Hotels family where I have been able to witness the most amazing and sensational working ethos lead by Mrs Tollman and her family.

Who are your heroes in real life?

My wife, children and our families.

What is your greatest extravagance?

My partnership in Kilima Camp, our safari lodge in the Maasai Mara.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Nothing is impossible

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

My wife and the serenity of the wilderness.

What is your most marked characteristic?

My patience.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Personally, climbing the Kilimanjaro exactly one year after a brain operation to conceal an aneurysm; professionally, my 30 years with Red Carnation Hotels.

What is your favourite journey?

Flying to the Masaai Mara, flying in general.

What is your greatest regret?

Losing my father when I was 16.

What is your most treasured possession?

My health.

Where would you like to live?

Anywhere with a great view and my family.

What is your favourite occupation?

Being a father to my children.

When and where were you happiest?

This morning while having breakfast with my son.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Mastering a musical instrument.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

To have greater general culture and knowledge.

What is your motto?

A problem always has a solution.