Victoria Tang-Owen

Yes, my time in Japan was incredibly formative and deeply influential in shaping my creative vision. I studied and lived in Tokyo between 1999 and 2003, and was immersed in a culture that values harmony, craftsmanship, and the beauty of simplicity. The overall architecture of my ideal house is a nod to the pool and fireside setting I experienced at AMAN-I-KHAS, Rajasthan where I travelled on my honeymoon, as well as some of the shapes and structures I explored at the stunning Jaipur Observatory, and the otherworldly forms at UCCA Dune at Beidaihe that refers to the philosophy of “organic” architecture allowing natural light to illuminate the interior.

Within the grounds would be set a restored Minka, emphasizing a strong connection to nature with its traditional wooden structure and intricate detailing, embodying the elegance and understated beauty that I came to appreciate during my time in Japan. For me this feels like a wonderful place to play host. It’s a way to bring a piece of that profound experience into my present, blending the old with the new in a space that feels both timeless and deeply personal and is also a formula that I use in the work that I do.

It's also not just about the traditions, but how to make this space feel contemporary. That is why I wanted the outside architecture to look out of place, and something mysterious. Then when you enter, you feel you have crossed into a different world.

My inspirations come from a rich tapestry of personal memories—my childhood, the places I’ve travelled, and the homes I’ve lived in. Growing up, I was immersed in an environment filled with art and design, which instilled in me a deep appreciation for the transformative power of our surroundings on mood and perspective. Each experience has left an imprint on my creative sensibilities. For instance, I often recall the vibrant shade of a silk fabric that caught the light just right, or the intricate patterns of handwoven jacquards that tell stories of craftsmanship and tradition. These elements resonate with me, reminding me of the beauty found in detail and texture.

Traveling has further broadened my horizons, exposing me to diverse cultures and aesthetics. The rustic tones of the European countryside, the serene simplicity of Japanese minimalism, and the vibrant colours of bustling markets in India all inspire me. I find that each place has its own unique narrative, and I love drawing from those memories to create spaces that evoke emotion and tell a story.

I believe that design should be a reflection of personal identity and history. I strive to weave together elements that resonate on a deeper level—whether it’s a cherished family heirloom, a piece of art that sparks joy, or even a colour palette that reminds one of a serene sunset. My goal is to create an environment that resonates with my life journey, somewhere I can enjoy views that bring up memories of sights, sounds, smells of good times in the past and elevate positive feelings in the present.

There’s something universal about great design, and that’s why I selected pieces by Gio Ponti and other eclectic items. Great design transcends the space it’s placed in—it’s timeless, and adaptable, like Ponti’s work. His pieces carry the weight of their own history, yet when you place them in a new environment, they take on new life and meaning. That’s what I love about great design: it retains its essence but can evolve depending on its surroundings. These pieces aren’t just tied to one project or one house—they would move with me. They have the ability to transform any space, creating a fresh dialogue between past and present.

What’s particularly fascinating is how Ponti’s designs can harmonize with a Japanese or broader Asian setting. The clean lines, subtle details, and sense of balance in his work align beautifully with the principles of Asian design—simplicity, functionality, and an appreciation for space. In a minimalist Japanese interior, for instance, Ponti’s pieces wouldn’t dominate the room but rather complement the serenity of the space. They create a bridge between European modernism and the restraint and elegance of Asian aesthetics, showing how great design can transcend cultural boundaries and create something entirely new and meaningful.

A home should be fun and vibrant—just like in fashion, you wouldn’t want to wear the same outfit every day. In the same way, I believe your home shouldn’t have just one uniform style throughout. I’ve always enjoyed interiors, but I don’t think we should take them too seriously. Homes are meant to reflect us, the people who live in them, and they’re supposed to be lived in. That’s why I like having different palettes and themes for different rooms—it’s about creating spaces that suit various moods and functions, just like I have different clothes for different occasions. I think you should have fun with it, experiment, and make it your own. A home is personal, and it should evolve with you.

Yes, they absolutely complement each other. This home is very much a marriage of Western and Eastern ideas, both of which are integral parts of who I am. I think it’s a modern misconception that collections must be exclusionary or kept within strict boundaries. Instead, I believe creating a dialogue between works from different cultures, eras, and styles is additive—it brings more depth and meaning to a space. In this home, I wanted to do just that: combining blue-chip Western artists like David Hockney and Cy Twombly with Chinese ceramics and the photography of Fu-dong Yang. It’s not about juxtaposition for contrast’s sake; it’s about weaving together elements that, while different, speak to each other and create a richer, more layered experience.

Yes, while this home is certainly a private sanctuary for me, it’s also very much a space where I would welcome guests and visitors. Working in a creative space is always a collaboration, and people are at the heart of that process. I believe that sharing your environment with others fosters new ideas and conversations, making the space feel alive. It’s important to have those moments of solitude, but equally important to have spaces where creativity can flourish through interactions with others. This home was designed to be versatile—both a personal retreat and a place where meaningful connections can happen.

I will always respect tradition and the old ways of doing things, and Feng Shui is a perfect example of that. It’s built on centuries of wisdom, tradition, and logic. While we live very differently today, some principles remain timeless. Feng Shui brings balance and harmony to a space, and I believe those elements can enhance how we live and feel in our homes. In this house, much of the design has been approached with the same respect for tradition. Many of the pieces come from craftsmen and artisans rather than modern factories. I’ve always believed that quality and craft are inherently sustainable—these are the things that will endure, long after us, the collectors. By incorporating Feng Shui and artisanal craftsmanship, I hope to create a home that feels connected to both the past and the future, grounded in principles that stand the test of time.