This month brings the return of our unit owner focus. Virginia Player presents a colourful insight into corporate life in the diamond industry, antique auction houses, James Bond, and how to enjoy your home interiors.
“I lived in London for nearly 25 years working with a number of blue chip companies, and when I left in 2005, I was working for a diamond mining company. I was tired of corporate life (usual saga!) and was keen to leave the world of long commutes, busy schedules and corporate meetings and events and follow a different, more creative path.
My interest in interiors started from a very young age – growing up with parents who had a keen eye for a beautiful antique subconsciously started an interest which didn’t really develop until I bought my first home in the early 80’s. It was then that I was tipped off about an auction house, Lots Road. My week-ends were soon relinquished and my weekly pilgrimage became an expensive craving as I soon realised I could find really good quality, unique and well made items without taking out a second mortgage. I always bought items I loved rather than were a bargain, and I still go by this premise.
I love pieces which resonate back to my childhood, whether they be a picture, a piece of glass or a chair, but they need to be not only beautiful, but functional too. A home should first and foremost be comfortable – a place you love to be in – on your own or with family and friends, and a refuge from the craziness outside”.
Image: Wooden Chair by Fornasetti
“I have affection for many of the mid-20th century designers but one of the most original is Pietro Fornasetti who uses colour and form in an incredibly inventive way. Mix the old and new together will always pay dividends and give you an original uncontrived look – but make sure your lighting is the best you can afford as this will set the mood and enhance your spaces.
I am inspired by the film sets of the early 007 films – all that polished steel, sliding doors, exotic beaches and Swiss chalet meets St Tropez; if I could afford it, my style would be a home with a coastal setting (think Jack Nicholson’s “Something’s Gotta Give”….lots of fresh air and changing seascapes) with a good dollop of Hollywood glamour”.
“Finally, keeping your home shiny and bright is important, so if you can (bit of a luxury!) employ a cleaner – a couple of hours on a Friday is enough to keep the dust at bay shine the taps, and won’t break the bank – and then you can sit back at the week-end and enjoy the fruits of your labour!”
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