Dear Vicky, could you tell us a little more about yourself and your everyday life in Vienna?
Vienna has been my adopted home since 2008, and I’m more in love with this beautiful city than ever. It’s not only incredibly family-friendly, with wonderful playgrounds, but also hugely inspiring when it comes to art and design. We’re spoiled with countless museums, a unique café culture, and of course design classics from brands such as Lobmeyr and Thonet.
What do you pay particular attention to when designing your home?
I’d be lying if I said aesthetics weren’t important to me. The truth is, however, that we’re also parents to two young boys, so Lego, Hot Wheels and the like are a permanent feature of our home. We try to strike a balance between pieces that work for everyday family life while also meeting our aesthetic expectations.
What makes a piece of furniture truly good in your eyes? What role do timeless classics play in your home?
For me, a good piece of furniture is not only beautiful but also of exceptional quality. It stands the test of time and appeals to me just as much tomorrow as it did yesterday. It’s easy to be influenced by trends, which I’m happy to embrace when it comes to accessories and smaller purchases, but for larger furniture pieces, quality and timelessness are my top priorities.
You chose Mart Stam’s S 33 cantilever chair for your dining table. What was it about this particular model that won you over?
I’ve always been a fan of the S 33 cantilever chair. I’ve loved its design for years because it has always felt contemporary, yet comfort is never compromised. I think these chairs actually become more beautiful with age; the patina tells a story, and the leather becomes wonderfully soft and comfortable over time. Because the quality is so outstanding, I decided to source the chairs vintage. Our set dates back to the 1980s.
The S 179 bar trolley is another Thonet piece that has found a place in your home. What do you particularly like about it?
Much like the cantilever chair, I’m drawn to its understated design. Its simplicity speaks for itself while still feeling refined and high-quality. The materials create a wonderful sense of balance in our home. Combined with the boldly veined Calacatta Viola marble in the kitchen, various toys and the textiles in the living room, it brings a sense of calm and elegance to the space. It’s also incredibly practical.
Are there any other Thonet designs on your personal wish list?
Many! The Coat Rack, Wall Hook and Shoe Shelf for the hallway are very high on my list, closely followed by the S 285 Writing Desk, which is an absolute dream. But first, for our upcoming wedding, we’ve decided to hire the classic Bentwood Chairs to capture that distinctive Viennese café atmosphere.
Photos: Sarah Rechbauer
