On this episode of The Modern House Podcast, where creative thinkers share their top three living spaces in the world, our guest is one that’s rather close to home. It’s Albert Hill: our co-founder who launched The Modern House 16 years ago with his childhood friend and our podcast host, Matt Gibberd. Here, the duo sit down at Albert’s workspace in their home county of Hampshire and reflect on the The Modern House’s journey. Plus, Albert discusses being a collector, his favourite homes and how they have shaped him. Listen to the episode here.

Albert’s family tree is one of creatives – his grandfather, for instance, was an interior designer; his father an art dealer; his mother a writer. So, it was only natural that Albert would pursue something of the sort. After studying Art History at the University of Bristol, he wrote for a newspapers such as The Guardian and The Independent before becoming Design Editor at Wallpaper* under founding editor Tyler Brûlé. While writing an article for the latter on the modernist residences of Sarasota in Florida, Albert had something of a lightbulb moment that sparked an idea, one which would go on to become The Modern House.

As the co-founder of this UK-based, design-led estate agency, it’s rather fitting that each of his choices is located within the country. He does, after all, have quite the affinity with it. Albert spent the first nine years of his life growing up in south London. However, it was frequent visits to his grandparents’ home in Suffolk that had a lasting influence, affirming his love of flat, natural landcapes. On his ninth birthday, Albert and his parents moved to Lyme Regis in Dorset, which was similiarly influential. Indeed, it was during his school years here that he met his life-long friend and future business partner Matt. From London to Suffolk, Dorest and beyond, Albert has since spent a great deal of time driving across the country in search of beautiful modernist homes – many of which have featured on The Modern House.

On this episode, get to know Albert on a more personal level as he shares stories of growing up, and describes his friendship and partnership with Matt. Plus, hear him reveal his top living spaces and why they are of particular significance. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so that you never miss an episode and if you could rate and review us, we’d be more than grateful. As always, happy listening.