Last year was a busy one for Joanna Chimonides, but 2023 has already started with a bang as she discuss a home renovation project in Hertfordshire, skydiving and working with heavyweight brands
Let’s start with your new home…
I bought my first home in September. I was originally brought up in East London and then my Dad moved to Hertfordshire, so that’s where I’ve bought my new home. I thought straight away it was the place for me, it’s such a scenic area with great access links into London.
What type of property is it and what attracted you to it?
My new home is a three-bedroom detached corner plot – I walked inside and could see the potential to modernise the property and make it my own. You have to see past what is in front of you and see the potential. I walked in and the decor was quite old-fashioned and everything was sectioned off. It was probably my fifth home viewing in over two years and it was the first time I felt the potential and changes I could make.
What are your renovation plans for it?
I need to go back to basics with some areas such as re-decorating and re-tiling my bathroom. The big changes I’m aiming for are to make it more open plan, starting with a kitchen diner and renovating the integral garage into a cinema room – I’m part of a big Greek family, so I want lots of space for socialising and entertaining.
Are there elements of undertaking such a project that you enjoy?
Honestly everything. The house is a renovation project so was, of course, empty and cold when we got inside, I just had a moment to take it all in!
I’ve always dreamed of my own house since I was a young girl, so now I’ve got the opportunity to make something my own. My family were with me when I got the keys, I slid down the bannister, and I was laughing – this is my home and no-one can tell me off! I just thought how exciting the next few months are going to be bringing the house to life, creating change and making this house a home.
Can you sum up your interior design style?
I’m going to stick with neutral colours as my base and accessories with pops of colour. I always think with a neutral base you can change vibes and themes later down the road easily with coloured furniture and accessories, rather than changing the entire house interior!
Apart from buying a home, what other highlights were there in 2022 for you?
I think 2022 was super special for me, it was the year everything settled into place professionally. I’m now an ambassador for one of my all-time favourite jewellery brands, Pandora, which is incredible. I’ve worked with huge brands such as JD Sports, in their Christmas campaign, and Ann Summers – being asked back by the brands is so special to me.
Tell me about your skydive for charity…
Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week falls in March, and I will be taking part in a sky-dive to raise money for the Down’s Syndrome Association. They are an amazing charity that helps the lives of those with Down’s Syndrome, this could be from providing speech and language therapy to occupational help – they are brilliant! I’ve set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the jump – I’m super excited but nervous to be taking part in the skydive.
Why are you supporting the Down’s Syndrome Association?
My uncle passed away when I was 9-years-old and he lived with Down’s Syndrome. I was so close to him and he passed away right before his 21st birthday. The charity and its mission are so close to my heart so it was a natural fit for me to become an Ambassador.
Are you always keen on using your public profile to support others?
I’m always keen to help out where I can, it’s important to me to use my platform so I will share the Go Fund Me pages on my social media – the use of a button that may save someone’s life or even support small businesses grow. There are so many ways a profile, whether they have a large or smaller following, can help to support another person.
How do you look back on your time on Love Island? How did it change your life – and all for the better?
It was nearly four years ago, so seems like a lifetime ago! I have great memories of my time in the villa – the laughs I had, the cries and the friends I made thanks to the show. I feel like my life began when I left the show and now I’m doing everything I’ve always dreamed of.
I think coming off the show is hard for everyone no matter the journey as your life completely changes, it takes time to find your feet and find your niche. At first, you could be exposed to a lot of trolling and you think “is this my life now”, but then as time goes on you build a strong network of brands and supportive teams around you – all worth the ups and downs are worth it to get where you are now!
Finally Joanna, where are your three favourite places in Hertfordshire?
I like this question! Tilly’s Gelato – I remember going in when it first opened, the ice cream is all made fresh and I’m obsessed with it in the summer.
Hertford town pond is SO CUTE in the summer to walk around and it’s always so quiet, it’s a spot I go to for a walk with a view!
Raja Tandoori is a small business-owned Indian restaurant. My friend introduced me to it and it was incredible.
