A versatile lady with a flair for creativity in all aspects of life, Wenche Charlotte Egelund is not only an independent woman but also a loving mother to her two grownup sons. My meeting with Wenche was very cordial and exciting. She, being a very creative person, got us click instantly and we shared many anecdotes of our creative lives. She has used her creative ideas in the house she currently lives in, which was personally supervised by her. Every corner has a touch of her personal liking and practicality of a family staying together. She was also instrumental in designing a Ski Resort and Homes Interiors in Oslo.
Being a multi talented person, she dons the hat of an Interior Designer as well as an Artist. SOUL talks to Wenche to know more about her life as an Interior Designer, a Painter and the projects she is currently working on.
- Tell us something about yourself?
I am a 52 years old woman with two grown up sons, who do not live at home anymore so most of the time it’s just me and my partner. Growing up outside of Oslo made me a curious girl about knowing more of the world. My thirst for knowledge made me travelled as much as possible when I was a student, and I still do. My paintings, my interior and my choice of colors, shows that I am influenced by different cultures.
Other than that I am a sporty person who loves to ski, do yoga, play golf, or just be out in nature. We are blessed with fresh air here in Norway.
- Which role do you enjoy more- Artist or Interior Decorator?
That is or was a difficult question a year back, but since I started at this art school I love to be a painter and to be able to try different styles / techniques and different form of art. Sometimes I wake up at night just thinking about what to paint the next day. I have so many plans in my head.
At the moment I´m working on something very different from what I have done before and it is fun and challenging. (My art web page is: www.wencheegelund.com) – will be updated very soon.
- How was the experience of designing your own home?
It was an experience that I take with me even now in my art (painting), and in the rest of my daily life. I was lucky to be there from the beginning: changing some of the room plans, choosing doors, handles, kitchen and bathroom. Choosing the right floors and tiles was important to me, as you can always paint a new color on your walls, but the floor is something which you can’t change frequently. Now after 6 years I still would have chosen the same.
For me, my house is my baby and the project almost took a year to finish and by the end of it becomes a part of you.
- Any challenges you had to face in terms of designing, requirements (of family members)?
Yes, there were a few. The house was made for a family with many children and many bedrooms. I changed that and made a big master bedroom with walk-in closet and an extra bathroom.
I also made a room for my eldest son downstairs (ground-basement floor) where he has his own entrance and bathroom. I made the kitchen area as big as possible, as it is the heart of the house.
- Which one is your favorite?
If you are thinking about a favorite room: it has to be my open kitchen. It is a very social area where I also have a small TV. I am usually talking to my friends while making dinner. Very often, actually every day, I sit with my laptop on the kitchen island, enjoying my tea. I can even do my ironing there which is built in.
- What are you future projects?
We have bought an apartment in Oslo which we will be taking over in the end of April. It’s more classic in its style and approach but elegant and very cozy. It doesn’t need much fixing, but it needs to be freshened up with some new paint, more wardrobes, and maybe hopefully there will be room for a small walk-in closet!
- Some basic tips for our readers to keep in mind while decorating their home?
* Never be afraid to mix old and new things. It is the same with clothes – expensive and cheap. Mixing makes it more personal.
* Try to have the same color scheme in all rooms, which will make it a complete package. Also choose the same floors in your home.
* Think where would you spend most of your time, what is important for you? The bedroom, your bathroom, the kitchen – whichever it is, make it practical. Mixing in decor is the key.
* Lighting is important; it can create an atmosphere by dimming the lights, and remember to put good reading lamps.
* It is easier to change the colors of the curtains and cushions, than the furniture. So, always opt for classic furniture.
Interior designer at her creative best…more pictures of her house, paintings and from her personal album…
