Motherhood by Katharine Pooley

1. Please introduce yourself: Name, what you do & how many children you have. 

My name is Katharine Pooley and I am the owner and founder of Katharine Pooley Ltd, an Interior and Architect practice with a staff of 50 and projects all over the world.  I have two boys aged 11 and 13.

2. How do you manage to juggle work and life balance as a mother? 

I don’t think there is any such thing as balance when you’re a mum.  We are like hamsters on a wheel constantly working for either side of the fence.  It used to stress me out, but I have now learnt to live with it.  I used to think that when they grew up it would be easier but actually I find it harder.  Children these days have so much pressure on them and responsibility.

This year I have had the 11+ and the 13+ and it has been the most stressful time coaching both through the navigation path.  I was always told “baby steps and great breathing and you can get through anything”.  I go to bed late and I’m an early riser.  This is when I manage to get things done.

I did have a nanny for the boys up until the age of 5 then we decided to do it ourselves. I’m very lucky to have a patient husband and between us we manage them well. I am grateful we decided to do it ourselves but if you have the luxury help before the age of 5 is a gift.

3. What top tips would you give to any working mum? 

Being organised and always one step ahead of the calendar really helps.  I have two PAs to help me – one for work and one for personal – I couldn’t do my job without them.  Try not to beat yourself up – we are all in the same boat and there will be days you will feel overwhelmed or that you are failing at both – you are not, you are simply juggling far more in this generation and we should be proud of ourselves.

4. What do you love most about London? 

Do you have a favourite spot with your children?  We spent 5 years in London before we moved to the Country and we loved our time in London. We spent the weekend browsing around the National History Museum and the Science Museum.  The boys also loved being on our bikes and following the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. There is just so much to do in London with kids.

5. How do you define quality ‘me-time’? 

It’s not a very frequent thing “me-time” but I take it when I really need space.  I walk every morning with our dogs and it gives me that perfect balance of thinking of just being with me.  I also love a good cuddle in bed with our dogs – they always seem to know when I need some love!

6. What is your favourite & least favourite thing about parenthood? 

I am sure this is the same for all Mothers but when your child says something wonderful whether it be funny, ingenious or loving – it lights up your day.  I found 2-3 years old quite demanding.  They are so fast and never sit still.  I could never manage the housekeeping, ironing, cooking and work and keep one eye on them as they run around the house investigating life!  My oldest also refused to sleep – yup you guessed it, I ended up sleeping with him – biggest mistake I know but I laugh about it now.

7. Tell us something people don’t know about you.

Before I had children I loved climbing mountains – I also walk very fast!

8. Given we are all about embracing Motherhood, what advice would you give a first-time Mum?

You will hear this all the time, but please enjoy it, it does go fast and you can never turn back the clock – savour every day, every phase and remember it is a phase.

9. I’m a mum and…

10. Finally, please let us know what you love most about Kensington Mums?

I love the fact that there is a network of mums out there and when you read the other stories you are not alone in your thoughts.  There are some great tips and advice to help us all.

Read more inspiring interviews as part of our online motherhood exhibition and get in touch to share your story with us. We would love to hear from you…