Uncommon Threads | Greta Bellamacina

Introducing Greta Bellamacina

Actor, filmmaker, poet, and artist

For Greta, Christmas is about creating magic at home in an enchanting blend of tradition, nostalgia, and the unexpected.

Her handsome Georgian house in Kent, tucked down a hidden lane, is a vibrant reflection of her and her husband Robert Montgomery’s creative spirits. Filled with bold colours and patterns, paintings and poetry installations breathing life into the traditional architecture.

Greta’s approach to decorating at Christmas is similarly playful and personal. During the festive season, the house comes alive with foraged ivy and holly, while mistletoe - lovingly dried and kept each year - marks the family’s years there ‘in kisses.’ Soft pink ribbons shimmer on the tree, and glitter and sequins abound. Rituals are cherished: a cosy morning opening stockings with a slice of panettone, afternoons lost in nostalgic films, and evenings filled with karaoke songs and lots of laughter.

“A house evolves with the family,” she explains, and hers is no exception. Books, plants, and thoughtful details fill every corner, making her home an ever-changing reflection of their lives. From the bold choices in her sofa’s pink hues to the geraniums brought indoors for winter, Greta’s interiors feel fresh, yet lived-in - an inspiring backdrop for the magic of Christmas.

Watch Greta's video

“It's about making the house full of magic, making small ceremonies together, spending time together and really just appreciating what we have.”

Greta Bellamacina

Be inspired by those who dare to stamp their personality on their homes.

The sofa sits in what originally was a music room added to the house in 1820. A beautiful piano still features, and the room's walls are lined with books and art. It’s a lively place for the family and friends to gather - whether in the rhythm of daily life or during spirited evenings with music and conversation.

“I think a house that is lived in, it never stands still, which I love.”

Greta’s bespoke sofa reflects her intuitive approach to design and a desire to bring warmth to the space through colour. "With this sofa, I wanted to play with all the different shades of pink," she explains, "a rainbow of pink, as if the light had bounced off it three times." The result is a piece that beautifully embodies her vision, infusing the room with depth, warmth, and personality.

Kentwell 4 seater, 3 hump sofa, in Linara Bloom with seat cushions differently upholstered in Linara Mallow, Rose Quartz and Orchid, all with contrast piping. Scatter cushions in Linara Sakura and Linara Petunia. Helmsley Snuggler in Signature Collection Mossop, Old Rose. Exbury 3-seater Sofa in V&A Opulent Velvets Paisley Splendour, Rouge. Snape Chair in V&A Opulent Velvets Andhra Weave, Flame. Burford Buttoned Footstool in V&A Opulent Velvets Lahore Dynasty, Flame.

Create a sofa that tells your story

Greta’s BFI pick: La Belle et la Bête

Christmas and films go hand in hand for Greta and her family. As she puts it, “Movies bring an extra layer of magic and nostalgia; they take you back to that feeling of being a child, present in the moment, letting the world fall away.”

The day starts with stockings, a slice of panettone, and a film - usually a nostalgic musical such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang or Mary Poppins.

For her BFI pick, Greta chooses La Belle et la Bête, Jean Cocteau’s 1946 Gothic masterpiece. With its enchanted castle, striking visual effects, and Jean Marais’ unforgettable portrayal of the Beast, the film blends wonder, mystery, and timeless romance. Its dreamlike pace and magical atmosphere perfectly set the tone for a season of enchantment.

Explore the Sofas & Stuff watch list at the BFI.