I was lucky enough to be invited to No. 10 Downing street by the Prime Minister. The occasion was to ‘engage key players in delivering our housing ambitions’. I always feel incredibly proud and surprised on such occasions that a Lad like myself gets invited to all the best gaffs! Mr Brown was charming and welcoming, made a point of glad-handing as many people as possible. It was very polite, but I’m not sure it’s the best use of our Prime Minister’s time, he might be better spending 10 minutes with a few people than 10 seconds with A crowd. But of course, I was chuffed he recognized me and that I got my 10 seconds!

The reception was on the hottest day of the year in the Downing Street back garden, which really is beautiful. The PM made a big point of saying he wanted more people to enjoy No. 10 (I dont think he meant David Cameron!) and that we should all look around No. 10 and the Cabinet rooms. Having always wanted a place at the Cabinet Table I wasn’t going to say no now!

The cabinet room was disappointing. The first thing I noticed is the cabinet table which is huge,with temporary extensions at the end it must seat nearly 30 people. A number of housing association board members commented HM Govt advice is that board membership should ideally number 7-12 so 30 really is a lot - and much larger than any board I’ve ever served on.

Secondly the room is quite cramped and a little bit dull. It has great antique furniture but rather old fashioned (or just plain old?) carpets and curtains.

Wouldn’t it be great if we could get one of our great designers to do something bright, modern and inspiring. We could give them an opportunity to show off British design, create an inspiring place and perhaps enliven the cabinet?

So, designers, would you fancy the commission? Editors, how about No. 10 design competition?

Tags: 10 Downing Street, Prime Minister