SALON: How long have you lived in Moscow?

Mr. Ilian Vassilev: For several years now.

S: Have you ever been to Russia before?

- Just a couple of times. But these were not very long trips, so I can say that I had little experience with Russia.

S: When did you first see this building, what impression did it make on you?

 - It seemed huge to me. He has both advantages and disadvantages. The main thing for which I love this house is a feeling of spaciousness. In addition, this interior has amazingly beautiful details, for example, magnificent stained glass windows and type-setting floors.

S: Have you brought here something of your own, some things with which you designed the interior?

 - We brought pictures. Some works were bought here. We tried to pick up something that matches the architectural style of the building and fits the interior. Basically it is the paintings of modern artists. For us, the main thing in painting is mood. We also brought a lot of books with us.

S: Have you changed something in the interior?

 - Yes, we tried to rethink the interior, but did not make any significant changes. You know, we soon put some accents. But they are made within the framework of the architectural space and those of its components that are specified initially. Architecture obliges. You can not forget about it and do something completely divorced from the source. In my opinion, this building has great potential. It seems to me that it is energetically very saturated.

S: Ms. Vasileva, tell me, do you like living in Moscow?

Ms. Tatiana Vasileva: The first time I got here was when my husband was appointed ambassador. Moscow is a very interesting city. In my opinion, now it is the center of cultural life not only in Russia, but in many respects the whole of Europe: there are wonderful theatrical performances, many museums, exhibitions often change. During the first year of my stay I had so many impressions that sometimes I even felt a little tired.

S: You speak Russian perfectly.

 - At first it was hard. But slowly began to learn the language. I read a lot.

S: Is your life different from your life in Bulgaria?

 - In Bulgaria, I had a very intense life. I worked hard. I had a law practice in Sofia. Arriving in Moscow, I retired. I was pleased that we received a warm welcome here. Responsiveness of Russian people is attractive. Russians, like Bulgarians, are very emotional, they have a broad soul. Most of all, I admire Russian women. They have a lot to learn.

S: What is the range of your classes in Moscow?

 - All my life I have studied and worked a lot. Immediately I spend much more time than I did before: I often go to exhibitions, concerts, and theaters. Recently I read a lot about Russia. So, recently read "Memoirs of Yusupov". I am a member of the International Women's Club. There we do charity work. In particular, I am responsible for organizing charity balls.

S: Is the local environment very different from your home in Bulgaria?

 - Both my husband and I have apartments in Sofia. This house, in comparison with them, is simply huge. Not many people live in such houses. My first impression of the house: it is big and very uncomfortable. It was hard to get used to. But in the end it turned out to be an ideal place to meet with a large number of people, to receive guests, who often come to us, to hold various events.