“I am sensitive to environment,” says actor, singer, producer and Viyet’s latest VIP consignor Rita Wilson. “Light, comfort, fragrance and vibe are important to me.” Wilson’s laid-back attitude toward creating interiors is inspired by Southern California, where she has lived all her life. “I am always attracted to natural light and open windows. You have to be able to smell the orange blossoms!” As for furnishings, “I love good design but never at the expense of comfort,” says Wilson, who has filled her homes with elegant but casual pieces that are as approachable as she is. Now she has made a selection of these cherished furnishings available on Viyet, the online marketplace for design and antiques. “I felt they needed to be out in the world and be used by people who appreciate nice things,” she says of the side chairs, sofas, mirrors, desks and other offerings. Wilson talked with us about her personal style, memorable occasions around a beloved dining table and more.
What is your favorite room in your home and why?
This is impossible to answer! We love every room. We use every room – I think that’s the sign of a good layout.
Your first album focused on songs from the 1960s and 1970s. Do you also look to these decades for decor inspiration?
Sometimes I wish I could re-create Laurel Canyon of the 1970s in my home – paisley and velvet, Oriental carpets. I’m very connected to that era for many reasons. For the cover of my most recent album, Rita Wilson, I went with a velvet suit for a 1970s-inspired look with a modern twist.
Describe your style in six words or less.
Comfortable, stylish, sparkly, denim, easy, sexy.
How has your taste evolved over the years?
I still love the things I have always loved. Your spaces dictate what works, though. Sometimes in a more contemporary space, you need a cleaner look. And in a cozy house, it is more about layers and a bit more detail.
What inspired you to consign your items with Viyet?
We have such lovely pieces. They could stay in a storage vault or be enjoyed by people who know that many beautiful memories were shared by us and that so many good times were enjoyed.
Can you tell us how you lived with some of the pieces consigned to Viyet?
The Italian writing desk was in our bedroom. I kept all my personalized stationery in it, and my pens, wax seals and stamps were in the small drawers. When I travel, I always look for a good stationery store. It’s the best souvenir. The two Donghia sofas covered in white-on-white Fortuny were from our living room. I love how chic they are.
Is there a piece that’s especially difficult for you to part with?
I’d have to say the dining room table handmade by an artisan in New Orleans. So many beautiful celebrations were had at that table. Many dinner parties with friends like Nora Ephron and her husband Nick Pileggi made for stimulating conversation. Nora would always ask a controversial question that everyone would have to weigh in on. Most importantly, so many laughs. We laughed a lot around that table.
What do you love about Viyet?
It is good to know that there is a place that offers great pieces of excellent quality without having to travel the world. That’s already been done by the former owners. All you have to do is click, buy and enjoy!
Click here to shop Rita Wilson’s VIP Consignor selection on Viyet.
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