On my first evening I took a book up to the Club Floor (where I was treated to properly chilled champagne) but I didn't open it because if you are not chatting to the other guests or deciding which canapé to choose, you are definitely looking at the view which unfolds before you and keeps you mesmerized whilst the wonderful staff refill your glass. I have a very personal relationship with Icon.

I knew the hotel before a brick had even been laid, because in 2009 I was charged with creating the brand and positioning for the hotel, but for one reason and another I had never actually visited. I work in London and I had helped develop the brand from there. On instinct and imagination alone.

I watched its development, saw the images of the interiors, commented on how things should look and feel and celebrated the successes that came the hotel's way. But I'd still never been until recently. But Icon is five years old now and I needed to see she was growing up beautifully and can continue to evolve. So five years later when I finally did arrive, it all felt familiar of course.

The living wall, the art, the layout of Above and Beyond, but it was the little things that thrilled me. The unexpected detail in the bedroom (who doesn't love a pencil sharpener in a stationary tray?!) the technology and the depth of the bath. I was working but it was the most relaxing week of my life!