Interview with Marie-Therese Krall-Becker

Marie-Therese Krall-Becker is the owner and designer of the extraordinary Japandi-style Grand Etage in the middle of the coveted West End. Currently, Marie-Therese and her husband Hasso commute between their modern domicile in picturesque Ascona and their second residence in Locarno. On the occasion of our collaboration, we wanted to learn more about the art lover and her living concept:

What was the inspiration for your Japanese-style living concept? What do you associate with Japanese culture?

I have always been drawn to the Japanese aesthetic. However, it took me until I met a carpenter who, among other things, also built houses for the Japanese and with whom I could realize my ideas. I love the play of light/shadow on the shojiis in certain lighting conditions, the harmony and tranquility that the natural materials of the walls, floors and furniture accentuate the art and center me on the essentials in the big city.

What makes good design and art for you?

I like functionality, quality and simplicity in everyday objects. In art, I like the clear, simple, which enriches the space in an unobtrusive way. Art that I surround myself with must not only please me, but also always be an invitation to an inner dialogue with the work and with me.

How do you live in your Swiss exile?

We live from May to October in a European-Japanese garden apartment in Ticino. Most of the furniture is made in Hokkaido, and most of the art is Japanese. A small part of the garden is Japanese with typical style elements. The winter apartment in a modernized palazzo is characterized by the art of Manfredo de Souzanetto, which consists mainly of natural earth pigments.

Your favorite locations in Frankfurt?

The "Sakai", the "Leuchtendroter", Café "Isabella", the MAK, the Museumsufer and for me on special travel occasions additionally the airport.