How To: Live the Dream

Have your dream villa but not sure how to make it your own? We speak to veteran architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, who has designed the InterContinental’s Sun Peninsula Residences in Danang and the Four Seasons Chiang Mai, about instilling a vacation vibe into your new home.

I love unique craftsmanship, pieces that are made by hand and created by artisans. I will always seek these out in the region or community I’m doing a project in, and go out of my way to work with these craftsmen and put in special orders directly with them.

When I’m shopping for art or interior pieces, especially in places I know I won’t return to in the near future, I have a motto: buy first, think later! By that I mean, trust your intuition and go with what you are drawn to, don’t agonise about it too much.

Don’t be afraid of colour. It is hugely influential! At home I change colours, and therefore the mood, often. Some years I change the whole colour palette in my house as many as three times! You could say I’m committed to change. I love to experiment, and paint is cheap. Don’t be afraid to change things.

There is no substitution for living things, fresh greenery and real plants within our everyday environment. I never use plastics and avoid synthetics.

Decorate with truly unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that have meaning to you, reflect your own style and show your personality.

 

By: Kate Springer