Let's Talk with Tessa Pearson from just a little joy
Welcome Tessa, can you please tell us a bit more about yourself?
Hmm this is a difficult one to start with. Well, I live in South London, I work for a magazine, Elle decoration UK and I write a blog about lifestyle and design-related things. I’m a country girl at heart, and despite the fact that I love my day job, I do harbour a secret desire to stay at home and do domestic stuff like preparing meals for the freezer and reorganizing my cupboards. But don’t tell anyone.
How did you end up in the world of design and interiors?
I’ve think I’ve always been quite a visual person, but it took me a while to realise it as I was more focused on writing. I started keeping scrapbooks when I was little, and they’re filled with interiors images and other photographs that I cut out of magazines and newspapers. I’m definitely a homemaker, and I think that got me interested in design. My space has always held a lot of importance – from my childhood bedroom to the little attic flat that I’m currently living in.
{Scholten & Baijings for 1616 Arita Japan}
The name of your blog 'just a little joy' sounds sweet and humble. Why did you choose it?
I’m not one of those people who finds it easy to be still and content. I’m always looking for the next big challenge or project, or trying improve on something I’ve already done. I wanted to start a blog that would help me to notice all the beautiful, enjoyable things that I come across every day and remind me to take pleasure in them, in order to slow myself down a bit and live in the present. It has actually helped a bit! ….MORE
Can you name some places you love to travel to?
I’m a bit of a sun worshipper, so anywhere near a beach is fine by me. I lived in South Africa and Australia, and I really want to go back to visit friends I haven’t seen in a long time … and I love California. Also, Florida – I went to Miami a few years back and it was such a fun place, I’d like to live at the Standard spa! That said, I’ve never been to Denmark or Sweden, two of the most stylish countries I can think of, so I really need to get over that way soon!
Any interior design books on your shelves?
My two favourite design books are both by the brilliant Ilse Crawford: ‘Home is Where the Heart I’s, and ‘The Sensual Home’. Her approach to interiors is exactly what made me want to work in the industry… it’s not really about the stuff you have, or keeping up with the Joneses – it’s how your space makes you feel and what your things mean to you that matters.
What kind of shops do you like to go to for finding interesting things for your home?
Well, I’m normally on a budget so it’s thrift stores, second hand shops and eBay all the way! I’ve found some great mid-century furniture on eBay, and I’m always scouring charity shops in my area for unusual ceramics, artwork and other bits and bobs. Even if my finances permitted it, I like to think I would never be a design snob; you can’t beat IKEA for simple, affordable contemporary furniture. One day, I hope to have a house filled with heirlooms to pass down to my kids, but until then, I’m trying to cobble together a look that feels warm and personal.
{Scholten & Baijings for 1616 Arita Japan}
Any home accessories you're particular obsessed with right now?
I saw a few things at Milan design week this year that I loved. In particular, the Colour Porcelain collection by Scholten & Baijings for 1616 Arita Japan. I also want everything from the the Nendo/Bisazza collection for the bathroom in my imaginary dream home, and I thought new French brand La Chance had some really cool stuff, as did New Zealand designers Resident.
You clearly have a big love for dogs, what kind of role do they play in your life?
I grew up surrounded by animals: horses, dogs, cats and chickens… life would feel so empty to me without them… they go hand in hand with my concept of home and of family. We’ve just got a miniature dachshund puppy called Lola. She’s totally hilarious – you just cannot help but feel happy when she’s around.
I love the category Health-Happiness on your blog why did you choose to add this?
Living well has become increasingly important to me over the last few years – perhaps because I haven’t looked after my body so well in the past! But I’ve realised that eating good food, taking care of myself and trying to manage stress makes such a difference to how I feel day to day. It’s so basic really, but it’s not always easy when life is busy.
~Thank You Tessa for sharing a little bit of your world with us!
{image above from an interview Tessa had with NY rooftop farmer Annie Novak}
{Top image in the collage: 1. + 4. The Standard Hotel in Miami – the most relaxing spa hotel I've ever been to, I would live there if I could 2. California Palm Trees – I just love them 3. Tessa herself 5. Kowie River in South Africa 6. + 8. Lola, the mini dachshund 7. My mid-century dining table and chairs designed by Kofod Larsen for G-Plan – found on eBay at a bargain price! }
