Decor Guide

December can’t come any sooner for me each year—I love this question! We have two very different Christmas trees at home in London: a family tree and then a larger, more formal tree at the foot of our staircase. My suggestions for updates would be…

1. Get the kids involved! My children love decorating the family tree, which is crammed full of toys and oversized candy sticks. There are fun decorations we have collected over the years and, of course, all of the decorations the children have made.
2. For more formal areas of the home, look for a theme and a color that works and lifts your current interior setting. It’s important to consider what works well in your interior.
3. Decorate the fireplace, hallway and balustrades with a fresh garland as the smell is divine.
4. I love hanging an oversized wreath on the front door that is an extension of your interior decorations. There is no better welcome home.
5. For a gathering of family or friends, I suggest creating a story or theme for your table, a talking piece that creates a mood and sets the scene. Use special table centerpieces, perhaps embroidered or patterned napkins and interesting napkin rings, a variety of place-card holders, scented candles.
6. Play Christmas music as it increases the happy hormone!

What first drew you to interior design?
Both my grandfather and father were property developers. I recall spending a lot of time with my father as a young girl looking at architectural plans. Later, he began to trade Italian furniture and my passion for interiors emerged. My mother was also a keen collector of antiques and we frequently visited antique and flea markets when I was a child. Unsurprisingly, visiting markets is now a delight for me! The beauty in antique objects and furniture, the craftsmanship, and care, precision and patina are so appealing to me.

Who are your design icons?
I have an interest in rare furniture and art pieces; some of my design icons are Les Lalanne, Jean Royère, André Arbus, Paul Dupré-Lafon, Gio Ponti, Jacques Adnet and Jean Prouvé. I couldn’t possibly select one as I’m inspired by so many artists. Why do I love these designers so much? I have a response to their work, sometimes cognitive as though they are a puzzle to solve and sometimes emotional. Pieces by these artists elevate a room; they emanate the history and culture of the time they were designed or made in and help make the environment extra special.

Favorite room in the world?
The Sistine Chapel. My first visit truly took my breath away. The emotion of being surrounded by the most incredible art… it’s very difficult to put into words.

What's the perfect holiday gathering chez pinocchia Freund?
Friends, overexcited children and family, good food and wine, thoughtful gifts chosen to delight. And don’t forget the Christmas music!