How can one not admire artists? The spaces they inhabit or design always carry a unique and captivating charm. I often feel that an artist can take even the most modest ruin and, with a touch of creativity, transform it into a true masterpiece. For me, Valentina Druțu is, above all, a passionate and sensitive artist. Currently, she serves as the director of the IAyond Art Museum, where she organizes countless cultural events—yet she never lets go of her identity as an artist.
In addition to her professional roles, she is also a dedicated mother to a four-year-old boy and, whenever time allows, she turns her attention to interior design. In fact, for the museum, she also takes on the role of interior designer, shaping its atmosphere with her artistic vision. I’m excited to one day share her creations there with you, because they are truly special. But for now, let’s explore her personal sanctuary—a charming home that began as a small building inherited from her parents. Through dedication and artistry, Valentina and her family transformed it into something extraordinary, a transformation visible from the very first glance at its facade.
The old house, since 1930, was raised and slightly extended
The original house, dating back to 1930, was carefully elevated and slightly expanded to suit the needs of modern living without sacrificing its historic charm. Valentina explains that rebuilding from scratch would have been faster and more affordable—but as an artist, she felt a deep connection to the old structure and saw value in preserving its soul. Instead of demolishing it, she and her family chose to honor its legacy and build upon it with care and creativity.
One of the features they insisted on keeping was the original cellar, which now adds a unique level difference inside the home. A single step down in the living room area subtly marks the transition between old and new, paying tribute to the home’s architectural past.
Although you might expect an artist like Valentina to embrace bold colors throughout, she intentionally opted for predominantly white walls. This minimalist choice wasn’t accidental; for years, she has collected original works of art, particularly those by the Pelmu family and the esteemed painter Câlii. The white backdrop serves as a perfect canvas to showcase these vibrant pieces, allowing the colors and textures to truly shine. In addition to her curated collection, Valentina proudly displays some of her own works, blending personal expression with art appreciation throughout the space.
Valentina Druțu has purchased many of the objects you see now at her house.
Valentina Druțu has personally selected many of the unique objects that fill her home today, each one with its own special story.
One of the most memorable is about a stunning cast iron stove. Believe it or not, it was purchased during a family vacation in Greece, where they stumbled upon a local stove fair. Among dozens of models, Valentina spotted a beautiful Swedish stove — one she had always admired. She managed to buy it for just €1,200, even though its original price was nearly €4,000.
Transporting it home by car was no easy feat. In fact, they later realized the car looked slightly bent due to the stove’s heavy weight! But it was worth every effort — the stove now sits proudly in the center of the living room, adding charm and warmth to the space.
As you step into Valentina’s home, you’re welcomed by a bright, airy living area. One detail that immediately catches the eye is the elegant curtains. It turns out Valentina has an impressive background in design — she served as the lead design advisor for nearly nine years at Sophia, a company that imports textiles and specializes in custom curtains and drapery. Naturally, the curtain model in her home is her own creation, a perfect reflection of her refined taste and design expertise.
I liked the combinations of objects, because I repeat, here you realize the ingenuity of a designer, here you see the artist’s eye.
What I appreciated most was the thoughtful combination of objects throughout the house. You can clearly see the touch of a designer — the artistic eye of someone who knows how to blend form and function with creativity.
The living room sofas are from IKEA, while the sleek white furniture was purchased from Romus, a local retailer that collaborates with Iayond, a company specializing in high-quality furniture for export. The natural teak wood pieces, like the ones in the living room, were sourced from an outlet store after a stock clearance. Each item feels handpicked, and together they create a harmonious and welcoming space.
I also noticed the mirrors — some were found at vintage fairs, others from Proplus, a company that also supplied some of the home’s background elements and appliances. Interestingly, several appliances are actually artist-made, created by local plastic artists. These pieces blur the line between functionality and artistic expression.
Throughout the home, you’ll discover cozy corners and soothing shades — not just in the open artworks, but also in subtle design touches on walls, shelves, or even small furnishings. For example, the coffee nook in the kitchen features a custom-designed radiator cover that adds a splash of soft color, a tone created by Valentina herself. The living room’s green accents were also carefully chosen to reflect her vision.
Upstairs, Valentina has created a light-filled studio, where generous windows allow natural light to flood in — a perfect setting for creativity. The master bedroom is elegantly decorated with deep red accents that appear in both the textiles and the lamps, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.
One of my favorite spaces was the bathroom. Why? Because it’s spacious, inviting, and designed for relaxation — a true sanctuary. It’s this kind of space that distinguishes a true home from a typical apartment: the freedom to move, to breathe. Valentina collected pieces for this room over many years, always with a clear vision in mind. She knew what she was looking for, and how each item would fit into the bigger picture. The result is stunning.
This house is the fruit of years of work — a collaboration between Valentina and her husband. Every corner speaks of effort, intention, and love. Now, when her child is away or doesn’t need her attention, Valentina retreats to the attic studio — her sanctuary — where she paints in peace.
Because, as I’ve mentioned before, Valentina Druțu is, first and foremost, an artist.
And I truly hope her home inspires you as much as it inspired me.
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