Prince Janek Żyliński was a talented businessman, passionate about classical art and ballet, whose life was inextricably linked with aesthetics and spirituality.
His travels through European palaces enriched his view of architecture and art, inspiring him to create unique places such as his palace in west London. His fascination with classicism, especially ancient Greek and Roman architecture, shaped his approach to both architectural and business projects. As the founder of the “Polish Heroes” foundation, he was involved in promoting knowledge about the achievements of Polish soldiers. He also planned an ambitious project to build an opera house modeled on the opera house in Versailles, intended to be a place of inspiration and education.
Unfortunately, the premature death of Prince Janek Żyliński deprived the world of this outstanding entrepreneur and art lover. The last interview conducted by the editor-in-chief of the magazine DESIGNER, Halina Bartoszek Rosa, revealed his deep connections with spirituality, his plans for the palace, and the extraordinary experience that changed his life just before his death. His legacy includes not only the beauty of architecture but also ideas that were intended to serve the Polish community and heritage.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Good morning, Prince Janek. Let’s start with your journey as a businessman. How does your passion for art, especially classical art, influence your business decisions?
Prince Janek Żyliński: Dear Editor-in-chief. My passion for classical art is reflected in my everyday life. For many years I traveled to various palaces in Europe, which enriched my view of architecture and art. What I’ve seen inspires me to create unique places, like my palace in west London.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Tell us a little about the inspirations that guided you when building this palace.
Prince Janek Żyliński: My fascination with classicism, especially the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, played a key role. I wanted to create a place that would reflect the natural order of the world, just like trees or flowers in a garden. For me, classic elements such as Corinthian columns are like the art of nature transferred to architecture.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: How does your involvement in classical art influence your business decisions?
Prince Janek Żyliński: My experience with the reconstruction of the Royal Castle in Poland taught me that details and beauty are key. In business, I focus on harmony, balance, and aesthetics, which derive from classic patterns. This approach has a significant impact on my projects, both architectural and business.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: You are also the founder of the “Polish Heroes” foundation. What prompted you to take such an initiative?
Prince Janek Żyliński: Having no children, I decided to establish a foundation to promote knowledge about the achievements of Polish soldiers, especially pilots, during World War II. I wanted to celebrate their heroism and show the English that Poles played an important role in the defense of Great Britain.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: What are your plans for the future, both in the field of art and business?
Prince Janek Żyliński: I plan to continue developing my passion for classical art, perhaps even implementing further architectural projects. I would like to expand the current horseshoe-shaped palace. In the field of business, I want to further promote aesthetic values and a classic approach to projects, while supporting Polish history and heritage. I am also a fan of ballet, which is inextricably linked with court life.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Tell us about your wonderful plans to build an opera house modeled on the one in Versailles.
Prince Janek Żyliński: Yes, I have an ambitious plan to create an opera house that will reflect its beauty and historical significance. It will be something special, similar to the opera at Versailles.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: What prompts you to build this building?
Prince Janek Żyliński: My passion for art and culture led me to this venture. I want to create a place that will be an inspiration to many people, just like the beautiful triumphal arch I have already built.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: What is the historical context of this triumphal arch?
Prince Jan Żyliński: The triumphal arch has deep historical significance and honors our heritage. I wanted there to be something that would remind us of our roots and make us proud.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: You plan to turn the palace into a foundation serving the Polish community. What goals would you like to achieve?
Prince Janek Żyliński: My palace will become a place that supports the Polish community. I want it to be a source of inspiration and a place where Polish culture will develop and attract attention.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: People often think that building such a palace requires huge financial resources. What is your take on this?
Prince Janek Żyliński: Many believe that building such a palace is a matter of money, but the real value lies in spirit and passion. I believe that spiritual people will understand that it is not only a matter of finances but above all of spirit and commitment.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: How would you like this palace to influence people?
Prince Janek Zylinski: I hope that this palace will become a place that inspires, educates, and unites the community. I would like people to feel connected to our history and culture through the art and beauty that this unique building offers.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Prince Janek, tell us about this extraordinary experience with your mother. What exactly happened a month ago?
Prince Janek Żyliński: It was something extraordinary. My mother, who died 30 years ago, came to me physically and hugged me tightly. She was as if in the universe, and her presence relieved me of all my sorrows. Even now she is with us, I see her and hear her. Whenever I was feeling bad, she told me, “My son, it’ll be fine.”
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: How did it affect your well-being and emotions?
Prince Janek Żyliński: This experience completely changed my life. All my worries disappeared and I felt incredibly happy. It was like my mother came to comfort me and promise me that everything would be okay.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Did it influence your approach to life and religious practices?
Prince Janek Żyliński: Yes, definitely. Although I had previously practiced both Catholicism and Buddhism, this experience made me focus more on spirituality. I found peace in the elusive and inexplicable.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Do you think your mother came to take you away? How did you take it?
Prince Janek Żyliński: I don’t know if it was a literal invitation to leave, but I feel that her presence was intended to comfort me and remind me that I am loved. I didn’t take it as an announcement of death, but rather as spiritual healing.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: How do you look at life now after this experience?
Prince Janek Żyliński: I am more positive towards life now. This experience opened my heart to greater understanding and acceptance. I want to continue my path with peace and love, knowing that my mother is always with me.
Halina Bartoszek Rosa: Thank you, Prince Janek, for sharing your fascinating story and perspective on the combination of art and business.
The last interview with Prince Janek Żyliński is a kind of farewell to his fascinating world, which remains a source of inspiration for those who knew him and for those who will get to know him through his legacy.
The editors of DESIGNER magazine would like to express their special thanks to Mateusz Dudek and James Scrymgeour.
Editor-in-chief Halina Bartoszek Rosa
09/01/2024 Stockholm
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