Notes of Curiosity: Sophie Roussel
Influenced by her passion for travel and design history, French interior designer Sophie Roussel has projects spanning Athens, London, Paris, Geneva, and more. For this month's YSSO Journal, the creative — pictured above wearing our bestselling Bal earrings— shares her inspirations, "pinch me" moments, and great escapes.
01 WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR INSPIRATION?
My library. My father started an art and design library for me when I was a teenager. Over the years, it has developed exponentially and it is always a constant source of inspiration and culture that feeds my work.
02 TELL US ABOUT A "PINCH ME" MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE.
Honestly, every time a new client hires me or a friend asks for advice. It is always a pinch me moment when someone comes to me for help and trusts me with their home.
03 WHEN YOU NEED AN ESCAPE, WHERE DO YOU GO?
Athens. Athens is always the answer! Everything about this city pulls you in, and you leave with a full heart (and tummy).
04 WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU'VE EVER RECEIVED?
Surround yourself with women that hold you accountable and lift you up. The women in my life have shaped who I am — made me braver, stronger, happier, better at my job, better as a friend...
05 DO YOU HAVE A GOOD LUCK CHARM OR FAMILY HEIRLOOM?
My two sisters and I wear the same very simple gold beaded bracelet that we got when we were born. We are very close and I love knowing we are all united by this, even when we don't live in the same cities.
06 WHAT IS THE BEST GIFT YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN?
My mother kept a diary from my birth until graduation and made two leather-bound photo albums of my life retracing these years. I received them on my 18th birthday, and it is by far my most treasured possession.
07 WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE ARTIST?
It evolves with the years — there are so many. At the moment, I find myself very drawn to sculpture. Pablo Reinoso has to take first place.
08 WHAT IS YOUR DREAM MEAL?The smoked eel at Papaioannou restaurant in Kavouri. Over and over again, forever!
09 WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE YSSO PIECE?
The Crescent Sun earrings in gold — they hug the ear perfectly and are the perfect piece to wear from work to the beach.
*Image credits: Collage one, clockwise from left: Ricky Rug by Atelier Février; Sophie Roussel interiors; Alekos Fassianos 'Golden Cyclist'; YSSO Sea Urchin earrings; Pablo Reinoso's workshop; Fassianos in his workshop; and Athens. Collage two, clockwise from left: Takis exhibit; view from Sophie's Athens flat; Amanda Haeghen wall light; Sophie's vintage car; YSSO Whisper of the Wind earrings; no credit; and YSSO Ariadne bracelet.