Kat Von D has an impressive résumé. She has done everything from shaking up the tattoo industry to starring in hit TV shows, writing best-selling books, and creating a beauty empire. But before all of that, her first love was music. She poured her heart into melodies and songwriting before she became known for her work in tattoos and makeup. With a background in classical music and an eclectic appreciation for different genres, it's clear that music has always been her passion. Now, she's making waves in the goth/synthwave scene, and the critics love it. We caught up with her and found out what it’s like inside her Haus…
What’s the most DIY project you’ve undertaken for your home?
I recently completed a bathroom floor using 3,000 Pennies instead of floor tiles. The back ache was totally worth the final reveal!
What’s the most meaningful piece of decor in your home and what’s the story behind it?
I have a brass crucifix that hangs over my bedroom. It was given to me by Lemmy [of Motörhead] before he passed away, and had originally belonged to his mother. I miss Lemmy every day and that piece means more to me than any fancy piece of furniture.
What’s the most extravagant home decor item you’ve ever bought?
I carved cabinet from the 1800’s commissioned by Napoleon for his favourite cello player. The body of the cabinet is carved into the shape of a cello and is engraved with gothic themes.
Do you have any family heirlooms or vintage pieces that hold a special place in your home?
There is a special fireplace mantel that’s followed me in the last few houses I’ve lived in that my father had commissioned back when we lived in Mexico before we came to America.
On paper it’s not worth a crazy amount of money, but the sentimental value is there. I sat underneath it as a child, and now my son will.
What’s your favourite room in your house any why?
So far the dining room is striking a big chord with me. Most of it is made up from architectural elements taken from churches in France. We shipped original carved gothic wainscoting that reaches 5 feet up the walls and makes you feel like you’re inside Noah’s arch.
Where do you find the most inspiration for your music - At home? On the road? Somewhere else?
In the studio working with my bandmates and my songwriter friends is the most inspiring to me. At least for the act creating and writing. But most ideas and themes for songs come from life interactions and experiences.
What’s your favourite swear word?
Darn crabapple.
What can fans expect from your current tour/album/single?
This upcoming tour is going to be so special in many ways. We have designed a visual journey through the album that I think fans will totally get and enjoy!
Do you have any collections or hobbies that you showcase in your home?
I collect a rare and obscure type of wood working called “tramo art” — more specifically the “crown of thorn” series of tramp art. Originating in German prisons, those with lots of time on their hands would hand widely small pieces of wood and create beautiful sculptures, usually in the shape of crucifixes and frames for paintings.
The final result looks like a puzzle piece of Woden slices held together by tension - no glue or nails used - and is quite impressive.
Kat Von D announces her brand new album which is OUT NOW!, My Side of the Mountain, alongside her latest single ‘Illusion.’ Taking the album name from the famous book ‘My Side of the Mountain,’ the forthcoming album from Kat explores themes of love and sobriety- something she has been vocal about on her social channels. Behind the scenes, she has been working towards finding peace amidst the chaos by focusing on her family and music. My Side of the Mountain is released today (Sept 20th) and features guest vocals from Alissa White-Gluz of Arch Enemy and LA songwriter Ferras.
