Spotlight: Ghislaine Viñas

Home is important to me. In addition to being a place that provides shelter and protection, it's also where I find refuge and sanctuary. Home provides a temporary escape from the current sociopolitical climate, which continues to frustrate and anger me to no end. I think that's why when I'm not marching, volunteering, mothering or working, I spent my time pouring over colorful design. It's escapism that actually makes me feel inspired and creative. Penelope Green, a writer for the NYT, noted, "[people] are trying to feather their own nests as a prophylactic against the chaos" and they are searching for beauty, comfort and a bit of joy. I couldn't agree more, which brings me to the work of Ghislaine Viñas. Her designs just lift me up; simply put, they make me happy.

Joyful (or is it joyous) is definitely a word I would use to describe Ghislaine's Sky House project - designed in collaboration with architect David Hotson - for which she won the Interior Design Magazine BOY in 2012. In fact I would use that same adjective to describe all of the spaces that she designs; they are infused with style, art, humor and so much COLOR (I can't think of many other designers who embrace bright hues more). Every project Ghislaine puts her finger on is so readily (and immediately) identifiable as her’s. Her original aesthetic and obvious passion are why she has accomplished such mastery over her domain. Ghislaine says that, "being a designer, staying authentic and unique is my job. It’s what I do to stand out and differentiate myself from what others are doing. You can be inspired by peers or those who came before you, but you need to bring your unique flavor to the work you do."

I really enjoyed listening to this Clever Podcast . In it Ghislaine talks about her childhood (she was born in the Netherlands, raised in South Africa), being an interior designer, starting a business at the same time as having young children (my biggest personal struggle is balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood) and she shares her general philosophy:

"The most important thing for me is that [clients] step into the house and they just feel good; it's [really about] the aesthetics of happiness... it just makes you feel happy or calm or it feels like home." She also adds that it has to be stress-free.

I hope this post brings you some joy, happiness and inspiration. Enjoy the weekend!

xx, Batya

[The photos have been posted with permission, courtesy of Ghislaine Viñas.]