get to know olga granda-scott

You met Olga Granda-Scott in our Fall 2015 issue, and here we chat further with her to learn more about her inspirations, specifically when it comes to style! 

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

I have a fascination for the stories and historical elements of the past, and it manifests in various ways. I would call my style “collected.” I love to juxtapose the unexpected – a vintage silk blouse with pair of jeans, or an industrial table with an elegant crystal chandelier. It’s all about subtle layering, but practicality and comfort are just as important. I prize quality, craftsmanship, and great details.

WHAT’S YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION?

I would say that I subscribe to a philosophy that values experiences over possessions, but I have many pieces which are meaningful to me, mostly gifts I’ve received from my family. One example which comes to mind is a painted porcelain plaque after Renaissance artist Cristofano Allori’s depiction of the Infant Jesus sleeping on a cross, the original painting can be found at the Pitti Palace in Florence, probably my favorite museum in the world. Besides the spiritual thoughts it evokes, it reminds me of my sojourn in Florence during college, and also the baptism of our son Marcelo, as we used it as a centerpiece of our family’s celebration.

WHERE DO YOU FEEL MOST INSPIRED?

Feeling inspired is a state of mind I find easiest to achieve when I travel and am able to disconnect from the day-to-day. I feel inspired by new places and new people, whether local or foreign. I’m a strong proponent of buying meaningful souvenirs and taking lots of pictures. When you are back at home or the office, there’s nothing like seeing that piece on your desk and being transported back to the place from which it came.

IF YOU HAD TO WEAR ONE OUTFIT FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

It would probably be something I’ve inherited from my mother, it’s 10% about the quality and beauty, and 90% about the meaning and memories.

WHAT MAKES A HOME BEAUTIFUL?

Beauty is in the emotions an environment evokes: love, laughter, nostalgia, accomplishment, inspiration, peace.

WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

Trust and know thyself, don’t let fear prevent you from acting on your dreams. Be grateful. And always remember “the best is yet to come!”

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPACE IN YOUR HOME? PLEASE EXPLAIN WHY.

My current home has an amazing Sun Room, or what used to be referred to in this typical Miami home from the 1950s as the “Florida Room”. It’s a space that’s part of the house but one feels that one is outside as it has picture windows on all sides. I love the sunlight that fills the room combined with the unobstructed views of the garden and pool. Miami is so much about the outdoors and this room gives us the perfect space in which to enjoy our surroundings — without the mosquitos!