Richard Martin

In a two-storey Paddington terrace hides an artistic jewel. On the ground floor, Richard Martin’s gallery is filled with contemporary artworks. He hosts exhibitions and conducts all his business from his gallery. However, it’s on the first floor where he calls home. After a 30-year corporate career, Richard decided to follow his passion: ART and has built a successful and rewarding career in the art world. While downstairs is filled with art, Richard’s living area is also bursting with eclectic pieces due to being an avid art collector and artist himself. Richard invited me into his private sanctuary.

What is your favourite room in your house?

It is the living room. Bright and light, I’ve filled it with my favourite art pieces. There’s also a great northern view of Trumper Park.

Why is it your favourite room?

The lounge room is marvellous, so uplifting. I feel very inspired when I’m in the room. I feel relaxed and it’s easy to unwind here. It’s also a great place to entertain. Last week, I had a showing downstairs and invited 40 friends for drinks and canapés. There’s such a lovely feel here!

How does your favourite room represent who you are?

Art is my life passion; it represents who I am. I love having art all around me and I have filled this room with all my favourite pieces. It’s such a nice environment, it fills me with joy. I’m an art collector first before an art dealer, and have sourced all the pieces in this lounge room personally. If you have a passion, I’d encourage anyone to follow their heart. I’m so lucky I am able to do that.

Some of the pieces in here include the 1965 coffee table, a sculpture by Evan Penny, a black and white by Brett Whiteley (my favourite) and a lot of 3D pieces.

What do you like most about your living room?

The whole feel; it’s so uplifting.

If you could invite anyone into your living room, who would it be?

Could you imagine having Picasso and Brett Whiteley here! We’d have a conversation about art, have some drinks and a great meal. Then collaborate on artwork. How good would that be!

What would you change about your favourite room?

I am comfortable with change and I occasionally move things around. I do have favourites that I’ve owned for years. If I were to change one thing, it would be to have more wall space.

What advice would you give on how to create the perfect space?

It is important to surround yourself with things you love. People often ask me, ‘Can I put that with that’, and I answer as long as you identify with it, then you should do what makes you feel good as you are the one living in the place. It comes down to one thing; love.

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