Paris: This 17th century house encompasses the best of classical interiors

This article explores a Parisian pied-à-terre, designed by Champeau & Wilde, for a young couple seeking a blend of classical and modern aesthetics. Located on the Quai Voltaire, across from the Louvre, the apartment captures the essence of 19th-century Parisian style while incorporating contemporary elements. The interior design studio, Champeau & Wilde, led by Laurent Champeau and Kelli Wilde, is known for its ability to infuse French sophistication into their projects, balancing historical references with modern sensibilities to create harmonious and livable spaces. Their approach involves a subtle alliance of contemporary and classical elements, tailored to clients' desires. The clients' vision for their 1,500 sq ft apartment in Saint-Germain-des-Prés was to evoke a 19th-century feel while ensuring it reflected their personal style and the romance of Paris. The original three-bedroom layout was reconfigured into two bedrooms, featuring an adjoining walk-in closet and a spacious bathroom, optimizing the use of space. The design incorporates quintessential French architectural details, such as crown mouldings and overdoors, which are then given a modern twist through the integration of contemporary art, like abstract collages by Francis Montanier, and modern furniture pieces, such as a zebra-print bench. Champeau & Wilde's signature style is characterized by this interlacing of bold patterns, diverse textures, and contemporary forms with traditional elements. They excel at combining bespoke and vintage furnishings to achieve individuality, emphasizing that schemes that are too uniform lose interest. A key aspect of their design philosophy is the strategic use of color and texture, often featuring splashes of bold hues against neutral, soft backgrounds. For instance, in the living room, a leopard-print rug and a blue sofa provide striking accents against off-white walls, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. The kitchen maintains a casual yet classical appeal through its neutral palette, while the bedroom also predominantly features neutral tones to foster a calming atmosphere. The master bathroom highlights the designers' strengths in functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring a his-and-hers sink layout with ample storage. The collaboration between Laurent Champeau, whose style is described as more rigorous and classically French, and Kelli Wilde, who brings a freer and more playful touch, is pivotal to their success. This partnership allows them to deliver comprehensively designed projects that resonate with their clients' aspirations while maintaining their distinctive design ethos. The article showcases how Champeau & Wilde successfully married the past with the present in this Parisian pied-à-terre, creating a space that is both timeless and uniquely personal. #InteriorDesign #HouseTour #ParisianApartment #ClassicalModern #ChampeauWilde #FrenchInterior #HomeDecor #Design

French interiors embody sophistication and elegance, characterized by an appreciation for classical aesthetics combined with a modern and cool sensibility. This distinctive style often features tall ceilings with detailed molding and decorative vintage pieces, reminiscent of finds from Parisian flea markets. To achieve this look, several design rules are consistently followed, starting with the prominent use of wall art. French homes, particularly those in Haussmannian buildings, often boast high ceilings, making large statement artworks essential for utilizing vertical space and creating captivating focal points. Interior designers often recommend incorporating at least one major, eye-catching artwork as an anchor, around which the room's ambiance is built with carefully selected furniture and decor. A soft and neutral color scheme, primarily varying shades of white and light oak wood, is frequently employed to provide a layered foundation that enhances the surrounding art. Another fundamental rule is the use of clean, crisp white walls. Unlike subtle neutrals, French interiors typically favor stark white shades, allowing the furniture, decor, and architectural details to stand out. These white walls serve as a simple backdrop, elevating a room’s historical ornamentation and harnessing natural light. This monochromatic approach, often paired with black and grey furniture, creates a harmonious balance without overwhelming the space, especially when complementing works of art. Antiqued decor plays a crucial role in French-style living rooms. The space is populated with carefully chosen, substantial pieces, often sourced from vintage markets or charity shops, ensuring unique finds. The key is to mix styles, incorporating elements from Art Deco, mid-century, and classical periods, creating a layered effect that keeps the space feeling fresh and contemporary. The inclusion of a gilded mirror is almost a prerequisite for a French-style living room. These elegant and stately mirrors, often antique and restored with gold leaf, serve as grand centerpieces. The larger the mirror, the better, and leaning them against a mantelpiece adds an effortless, vintage feel. Such mirrors not only maintain classical French charm but also enhance the room's sense of grandeur by drawing the eye to intricate crown moldings. Intricate molding itself is a hallmark of French interiors. Ditching plain borders in favor of detailed crown molding, ceiling roses, enriched borders, and wall paneling adds significant texture to white-walled rooms, highlighting the beauty in small details. Luxe materials are also integral to the French aesthetic. Unlike the pale woods often seen in Northern European interiors, French design favors more opulent materials like marble, frequently used for decorative embellishments such as fireplaces. Gleaming metals, particularly warm tones like brass, are also incorporated to add a luxurious finish. Dramatic statement lighting is another key element. While layered lighting is popular, French designers often opt for ceiling lights that dazzle, such as elaborate chandeliers, which have evolved to offer modern interpretations of classic grandeur. These fixtures provide a significant 'wow' factor, often reflected infinitely in mirrors, creating a bridge between past and future and anchoring the space in timeless French chic. Finally, French living rooms emphasize creating a conversational space. The furniture arrangement often revolves around a fabulous coffee table, turning the flow of the room inwards to encourage and stimulate discussion. The choice of chairs, rugs, and coffee tables is pivotal in capturing the essence of the French 'art de vivre,' focusing on conviviality, sharing, and comfort. Statement rugs, for instance, not only anchor the furniture but also contribute significantly to the room's decor, enhancing both aesthetics and comfort and making the living room the heart of the home. #FrenchStyleLivingRoom #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ClassicalAesthetics #VintageFurniture #GildedMirror #CrownMolding #LuxeMaterials #StatementLighting #ConversationalSeating

The author, Hebe Hatton, Head of Interiors at Homes & Gardens, discusses her long-standing fascination with French fashion and its effortless, chic, and relaxed aesthetic, which she describes as “quiet luxury.” While acknowledging the difficulty of replicating this inherent 'je ne sais quoi' in personal style without being French, she expresses a strong desire to infuse her home with this coveted look. Currently immersed in French culture, interiors, and architecture during a fall trip to France, Hatton is identifying key principles that define French interior design to translate them into her own living space. She notes that French style balances laid-back relaxation with sophistication and elegance, a combination that, despite seeming simple, requires careful execution. To achieve this aesthetic, Hatton outlines several rules and insights gathered from her observations and discussions with design experts. The first rule emphasizes the mixing of old and new elements, which creates depth and interest in French interiors. Dorothée Meilichzon, founder of CHZON, highlights the French ability to blend classic influences with 20th-century styles, incorporating graphic elements and modern colors. Design consultant Eleanor Taylor-Roberts further elaborates that the French aesthetic involves a strategic juxtaposition of decor from various eras and sources, such as pairing Western antiques with mid-century modern pieces or street art with contemporary decor. Practical suggestions include choosing chandeliers over modern pendants and integrating distressed pieces, gilded mirrors, and vintage rugs without concern for pattern clashes. The second principle focuses on drawing inspiration from historical details. French interiors prioritize charm and character, respecting and highlighting original architectural features. The architecture often serves as the foundation, with layers of different styles and eras added over time. Designer Betsy Kasha explains that French interior architecture shows respect for a building's history and aesthetic, allowing contemporary elements to complement rather than dominate original or restored features. Dorothée Meilichzon reiterates that good design begins with the building's inherent characteristics, period, and shape, integrating modern colors, shapes, and textures. Eleanor Taylor-Roberts advises embracing original features to cultivate a Parisian flair, while interior designer Benji Lewis notes the prevalence of historical architectural details like wood paneling, double doors, beamed ceilings, ornate chimneys, and period floors in French interiors. The third rule encourages shopping second-hand for original pieces. Hatton observes the abundance of affordable statement items in French markets and brocantes. Benji Lewis points out the pervasive nature of preloved items in French home decor, from 18th-century fauteuils to mid-century lamps. He suggests exploring flea markets for unique finds like mid-century dinner services or distressed furniture for a rustic vibe, or commodes with ormulu trim and Aubusson hangings for a grander feel. He also highlights the French appreciation for antique linens, recommending embroidered sheets and patterned padded quilts for a rustic bedroom, and incorporating blue and white stripes or checks with plain ivory hemp textiles. Fourth, the article advises ignoring trends. Hatton notes a distinct lack of visible trends in most French interiors, contrasting with the often-homogenized look of trend-following homes on social media. She finds that French interiors, while effortlessly stylish and classic, are also quirky and full of character. The suggestion is to decorate reflectively of one's personal style, adopting a natural, laid-back approach where nothing feels forced or overly curated. The idea is to trust that if a piece is liked, it will likely integrate well with other chosen items. Finally, the fifth rule emphasizes embracing imperfection. Hatton admires the French approach to life and interiors, which finds beauty in imperfection and a charming sloppiness. Despite feeling elegant and elevated, many French homes possess a lived-in quality. This contrasts with the pursuit of immaculate, often characterless rooms seen elsewhere. Hatton shares her intent to incorporate imperfect French country decor pieces and even change her bed-making routine to a more relaxed, layered style with slubby linens, anticipating this 'almost unmade but still chic' look as a future bedroom trend. #FrenchInteriorDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorStyle #MixingOldAndNew #HistoricalDetails #SecondHandDecor #TimelessDesign #EmbracingImperfection #QuietLuxury

Architect Yacine Bensalem, founder of In Situ & Partners, led the renovation of an elegant Haussmann-style Paris apartment situated in the 16th arrondissement. The project aimed to preserve the aesthetic codes of a classic Parisian apartment while seamlessly integrating modern functionality. Drawing inspiration from the apartment’s 19th-century deeds, the renovation meticulously recreated the original rhythms of the space, adhering to Haussmannian rules while incorporating British and Asian influences inherent in the firm's design philosophy. The outcome is a sophisticated and refined living space that highlights exquisite craftsmanship through handmade finishes and custom pieces, all crafted by Italian and French artisans. Bensalem's aesthetic is evident in the subtle fusion of styles. The hallway, for instance, features leather and bronze shelves that introduce a touch of Asian glamour, a theme echoed in the Japanese-style resin shelves above the living room fireplace. Designed to mimic an outdoor space, the hallway acts as a transition zone between the private and public areas of the home, featuring lantern-style lighting and geometric marble flooring that evoke the atrium of a Parisian mansion. Despite the previous owner removing many distinctive Haussmannian elements like parquet flooring and original moldings, the apartment’s monumental entrance, high ceilings, large windows, and an incomparable view of the Eiffel Tower provided a strong foundation for imagining its original grandeur. The material and color palette were carefully selected to align with classic Haussmannian codes. Walls and ceilings were painted in natural ivory, complementing the lightly patinated herringbone oak parquet, which was chosen to convey a sense of lived-in history. The study and powder room feature dark oak paneling, reflecting British design influences. The long hallway’s flooring boasts a traditional 19th-century geometric pattern in grey, black, and white Italian marble, a motif that extends to the contemporary kitchen with contrasting grey and rust-colored wall tiles. The furniture for the living area and other spaces was a blend of custom-made pieces and curated design elements. Collaboration with skilled Italian and French artisans was crucial, ensuring that many elements were custom-made to personalize the rooms. Notable pieces include Kartell armchairs and Flos lamps, complemented by antique items such as the mirror above the dining room fireplace. The dining room also features a custom-made dining table, couch, and lighting, alongside pieces like Sinai wooden coffee tables by Cattelan Italia and a blue Febo armchair by B&B Italia. Custom rugs by GC further enhance the tailored feel of the apartment. One of the primary challenges of the project, beyond the logistical difficulties posed by the Covid pandemic, was authentically capturing the Haussmann spirit while infusing it with In Situ & Partners' unique style. Bensalem's extensive background in classical French architecture, honed during his 14 years of studying and working in Paris, proved invaluable. The project deliberately went against the prevailing trend of devaluing classical interior design, demonstrating a commitment to historical accuracy and cultural identity. The interaction with art was also a key aspect, with numerous works by Pierre Bonnefille, a Maître d'art, chosen for their poetic and contemporary representation of tradition, aligning with the project's artistic and poetic guiding principles and its deep respect for craftsmanship. #HaussmannStyle #ParisApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #InSituAndPartners #TraditionalModernMix #FrenchArchitecture #CustomCraftsmanship #ArtIntegration

This article explores a New York home designed by Ania Dunlop, founder of Home for Zen, which draws significant inspiration from modern Parisian aesthetics. The renovation aimed to blend Parisian chic with a Mediterranean setting, resulting in a vibrant, modern, and sophisticated family home. The residence, located near NYC, underwent a complete gut renovation to harmonize clean lines, luxurious textures, and a soft color palette while preserving its original grandeur and architectural elements. The design emphasizes a unique fusion of styles, celebrating both traditional elegance and contemporary flair. One of the key lessons highlighted is the enhanced Parisian flair achieved through the strategic incorporation of art. Ania Dunlop prioritized modern art and murals to inject a sense of 'happiness and youthful energy' into the space, creating a balanced and inviting ambiance. The collection includes pieces from local galleries, with a notable mention of "Eternal Kate Moss" by Patrick Rubinstein, an interactive three-dimensional artwork that offers dynamic perspectives as viewers move around it. Murals are also utilized as an alternative to traditional wallpaper or paint, serving to transform the mood of each space. For instance, a tropical green wallpaper in the sunroom brings nature indoors, while a monochromatic black-and-white willow mural in the studio adds elegance and tranquility without overstimulation. The second lesson focuses on layered decor for pops of color and curated furnishings. Ania meticulously collected furniture and artworks over time, aiming to fill her home with heirlooms rather than mass-produced items. This approach ensures that every piece tells a compelling story of passions and experiences, making the home feel personal and exquisitely curated. The designer advocates for buying fewer, higher-quality items with a focus on workmanship and sustainability, a philosophy she extends to her clients by introducing them to artisans and handmade pieces. This thoughtful layering of decor contributes to the Parisian flair by creating a sense of timelessness and individuality. Luxe materials form the third essential element of the design. Ania is drawn to modern organic aesthetics that incorporate materials such as marble, ash, rift oak, shearling, mohair, bouclé, and handmade ceramics. These materials are used to create layered and edited interiors that are warm, serene, and authentic. Marble, in particular, is highlighted for its timeless elegance, natural beauty, and reflective qualities that enhance natural light, making spaces feel brighter and more open. The combination of marble with wooden elements, like a walnut floor lamp and an oak side table, adds richness and balance. Textiles such as plush rugs, throw pillows, and upholstery in complementary colors and textures introduce warmth and comfort, providing a contrast to hard surfaces and making the rooms more inviting, as seen with shearling ottomans and textured leather lounge chairs in the living room. The fourth lesson involves a calming color palette. While many Parisian homes feature bright white walls to maximize natural light, this home uses Decorator’s White from Benjamin Moore, a sleek, near-grey shade that brightens the space without strong undertones. The decor then punctuates these white walls with color. The muted color palette is intentionally applied to the ground floor's open-concept layout to create a seamless flow between rooms while still allowing each space to have its unique personality. The design emphasizes simplicity, the incorporation of nature, and the use of textures, soft colors, and modern bright artwork, all contributing to a harmonious feel throughout the home. Finally, the article discusses the preservation and enhancement of architectural elements. The home's traditional ornate crown molding was retained to maintain a grand scale reminiscent of Parisian design. Architectural features like the grand double staircases were streamlined but preserved, and windows were altered to a floor-to-ceiling style to welcome in abundant natural light. This thoughtful integration of existing architectural grandeur with modern design principles breathes new life into the space, marrying timeless elegance with a contemporary flair and creating a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic. #HomeDesign #ParisianStyle #InteriorDesign #LuxuryMaterials #ArtIntegration #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalElements #ModernHome #NewYorkDesign

This blog post showcases a meticulously redesigned Paris apartment, measuring 895 square feet (83 square meters), which exemplifies sophisticated small-space planning. The article details how interior designer Lichelle Silvestry transformed the compact 1909 building into a luxurious and elegant pied-à-terre without compromising on style. The redesign process began with a client's favorite painting, purchased at the Marché aux Puces, which subsequently dictated the apartment's warm color palette. This palette includes sienna, terracotta, plum, rose, and ivory, accented with black for contrast and depth. The living room, despite its modest size, has been cleverly configured to accommodate two distinct seating areas. One area features a bespoke sienna-colored curved sofa, oriented for television viewing, complemented by a unique dark bronze light sculpture designed by Philippe Antonioz, which serves as a central art piece. The other side of the living room adopts a more intimate, boudoir-like ambiance with a custom pink tête-à-tête sofa and two white armchairs arranged around a fireplace. A whimsical touch is added by a white taxidermy peacock named Psyche. The importance of texture is highlighted, with materials like bronze, silk, mohair, linen, velvet, heavy-veined marble, sisal, and jute used to create an illusion of spaciousness and luxury. Custom-made wool and jute rugs by Manufacture Pinton and Dedar fabrics further enhance the tactile experience. Innovative space-saving solutions are evident throughout the apartment. A discreet home office area is integrated into a corner of the living room, demonstrating that functional workspaces can blend seamlessly with the decor. The dining and kitchen areas are separated by a smart paneled and glazed partition wall, reminiscent of a traditional butler's pantry. This partition allows the kitchen to be visually distinct yet harmonious with the adjacent dining space. The dining nook itself features a striking terracotta corner banquette, a contemporary round dining table, and a mirrored backsplash, which amplifies the sense of space. The kitchen is designed with ivory cabinetry to maintain a cohesive aesthetic with the living areas. Despite its small footprint, it includes luxurious elements such as a Lacanche stove and calacatta viola countertops and backsplash. The guest bedroom provides a calm, sophisticated retreat with a neutral palette of ivory and black, while the gilt-framed painting subtly nods to its Parisian setting. The primary bedroom offers a more personalized design, inspired by the client's preference for vintage kimonos and birds. It features De Gournay wallpaper, an Ochre chandelier with Limoges porcelain tiers, and custom-made headboards, bedding, and decorative pillows in Rubelli and Dedar fabrics, with curtains and trimmings by Pierre Frey. The en-suite bathroom combines contemporary black tiles and a freestanding tub with the building's original period window and wrought-iron balcony, creating a balanced blend of old and new. The design choices collectively contribute to an impression of spaciousness and understated French sophistication, successfully addressing the challenges of limited space with thoughtful design and luxurious materials. #ParisApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeTour #LichelleSilvestry #SpacePlanning #FrenchStyle #ElegantInteriors

This article explores Le Mas de Chabran, an 18th-century Provencal farmhouse situated in Maussane-les-Alpilles, a village recognized as one of France's most beautiful. The property, renovated by architect Alain Meylan and interior designer Liliana Atilova, seamlessly blends historical charm with modern and contemporary design elements. The renovation respectfully maintains the farmhouse's original character while introducing updated aesthetics and functionalities. The farmhouse boasts extensive facilities, including a home cinema, a spa equipped with a massage room, sauna, and a yoga/fitness area. For private travelers, the property even includes a helipad. Its exterior is equally impressive, set at the base of the Massif des Alpilles mountains, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, which are a source of local olive oils and wines. Mature and meticulously maintained gardens envelop the farmhouse, providing shaded areas ideal for the warm summer months. The interior design prioritizes a fresh and light ambiance, moving away from traditional, heavy decor often associated with such historic properties. The living areas are furnished with contemporary pieces, such as plump, linen-covered sofas and armchairs, creating a casual and breezy atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors connect these spaces to the outdoors, offering views of landscaped gardens, a heated swimming pool, and stables. The design philosophy behind Le Mas de Chabran is a harmonious integration of modern and rustic elements, showcasing historic architectural features alongside contemporary furniture, lighting, and art. A distinctive equestrian theme subtly runs through several rooms, reflecting the designers' passion for horses, and incorporating unique decorative pieces, like repurposed farmhouse equipment displayed as modern sculptures, braided leathers, and a neutral color palette complemented by contemporary artworks. The kitchen is a focal point of modern design, featuring an all-black aesthetic with fluted details and dramatic black marble worktops and splash-backs. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining room continues this modern theme with statement pendant lighting that adds a contemporary flair. The property accommodates up to 16 guests across its eight bedrooms. Each bedroom is uniquely appointed with Pierre Frey fabrics, bespoke king-size beds, flat-screen televisions, and en-suite bathrooms. The juxtaposition of modern furniture against the traditional tiled floors and rustic walls creates a fresh and inviting aesthetic. Modern art and lighting fixtures are prevalent throughout the bedrooms, enhancing the contemporary feel, and balconies offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. The bathrooms blend rustic tiles and materials with modern fittings, ensuring comfort and style. Outdoors, a terrace with a modern farmhouse-style dining table and chairs is perfect for al fresco dining. The heated swimming pool is lined with sun loungers, providing a luxurious space for relaxation. The grounds are further enriched with century-old olive trees, scenic ponds, a vegetable garden, and a private chapel, offering a comprehensive and idyllic retreat. The property, Le Mas de Chabran, is available for rent through villacollective.com. #HistoricFarmhouse #Provence #ModernRusticInterior #LuxuryRenovation #FrenchArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryArt #EquestrianTheme #VillaRental

The French Room at the Adolphus Hotel in Downtown Dallas has undergone a significant 16-month renovation, transforming its aesthetic from pastel cherubs and red velvet to brilliant white and expensive gold. This extensive facelift encompassed the restaurant’s three primary areas: the salon, the bar, and the dining room, each now boasting a contemporary and ornate appearance. Historically, The French Room maintained an elegant but somewhat dated charm, characterized by faded colors and pleated window curtains. The renovation aimed to bridge the gap between its traditional elegance and modern appeal, seeking to attract a broader clientele while retaining its prestigious identity. This required a substantial effort from the renovation team to update the decor without entirely discarding its foundational character. In the salon, the space largely retains its original architectural essence, featuring extensive carved dark wood trim and molding. The room is adorned with various artworks, and a single chandelier casts a soft, iridescent glow. Modular seating arrangements provide flexibility for accommodating different party sizes, ensuring comfort and adaptability. The bar area has also been updated, adopting a much dimmer lighting scheme that evokes the ambiance of a high-end speakeasy. It is distinguished by deep blue walls, classical paintings, and a brass ceiling. Silver trays filled with cocktail elixirs are meticulously arranged on a dark stone bar top, enhancing the sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. The dining room, often considered the heart of The French Room, maintains its original architectural framework but features extensive interior design changes. The former crushed red velvet chairs have been replaced with elegant Bergere dining chairs upholstered in pristine white fabric. Thick pleated tablecloths are set with pure white china plates, accompanied by a single glass and a gold candleholder. The previous artwork and wall coverings have been substituted with clean white and gilded flourishes. The heavily ornate molding and trim are now coated in semi-reflective gold paint, featuring classic French-style framing. Additionally, a few booth seats have been incorporated to offer guests more private dining options. Chef Michael Ehlert presides over the culinary offerings, presenting a refined take on French cuisine with dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern plating techniques. The menu, which is seasonal, includes items such as snails with pommes dauphine and watercress, seared foie gras, and consommé chartreuse. To conclude the dining experience, guests can select from The French Room’s traveling dessert cart, providing a sweet finish to their meal in this renowned Dallas establishment. #FrenchRoom #RestaurantRenovation #DallasDining #AdolphusHotel #LuxuryInteriors #FineDining #InteriorDesign #HotelRenovation #DallasRestaurants

The article presents a detailed tour of designer Lauren Sullivan's newly built home in Tennessee, which she intentionally designed to evoke a sense of European charm and history, despite its recent construction. Sullivan's design philosophy is deeply rooted in her childhood experiences, including antique hunting with her grandmother and an early admiration for the characterful homes depicted in European fairy tales. This personal history informed her desire to create a new build that felt timeless and lived-in, rather than freshly constructed. The project was a collaborative effort between Sullivan's interior design studio, Well x Design, and Brooks & Falotico architects. The aesthetic is described as 'Modern European,' a style that subtly blends old-world whimsy with contemporary elements without resorting to pastiche. Sullivan emphasizes the challenges and creative pressures of designing one's own home, especially when aiming for a specific, layered aesthetic. She highlights the importance of restraint in design, ensuring that every detail, from architectural features to interior decor, contributes to the overall vision without overwhelming the space. A key aspect of the home's design is the extensive use of antiques and timeworn materials. Sullivan deliberately incorporated reclaimed stone, aged metals, vintage textiles, and art with visible age and texture to imbue the new build with a sense of depth and history. This slow curation process allowed her to gather meaningful pieces over the four years of construction, preventing a rushed or 'finished' feel. This approach ultimately inspired the launch of her sourcing platform, Well Found, dedicated to antiques and vintage finds. The exterior of the home reflects storybook inspirations, featuring steeply pitched roofs, limestone walls, dormer windows, and copper gutters, contributing to a magical and old-world appearance. Inside, the design emphasizes layers of textures, materials, and contrasts. Sullivan explains that mixing different shapes, styles, and eras creates visual tension and interest, advocating for pairing sculptural modern pieces with rustic antiques or clean-lined furniture with plaster walls and timeworn floors. This blend, she believes, is where the true 'magic' of a soulful home lies. Specific areas of the home are detailed, such as the entryway, which Sullivan considers an 'accidental success' and a perfect representation of her style. It features a French tapestry, an 18th-century Italian console, vintage travertine tables, neoclassical iron benches, and vintage busts, all contributing to a fresh, modern space with clear European influences. The living room similarly showcases a layered approach, with a vintage rug, Schumacher fabric, Dudouyt chairs, and a mid-century Scandinavian light fixture, all chosen over time to create a grounded, inviting, and timeless ambiance. The open flow between the living room, dining room, and kitchen creates a connected feel without being fully open-plan. The kitchen, while practical, features Calacatta Paonazzo countertops, an integrated sink, maximized vertical storage, recessed toe kicks, and furniture-like islands with brass feet and detailed moldings. Flush mounts by Ralph Lauren are used instead of recessed lighting to maintain visual interest. Sullivan also notes the unexpected benefits of building during the pandemic, which, despite delays, allowed for a more intentional and thoughtful decision-making process. The article concludes by emphasizing the personal nature of the project, built with love, memory, and a belief in creating deeply lived-in homes through careful layering. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #EuropeanStyle #AntiqueCollecting #NewBuildDesign #TimelessDesign #DesignPhilosophy #HomeTour

Interior designer Olga Ashby transformed a 1911 Haussmann building pied-à-terre in Paris's 7th arrondissement into a sophisticated and welcoming space designed for both large gatherings and tranquil relaxation. Spanning 1,615 square feet on the Rive Gauche, the apartment features a spacious entertainment living-dining area, two studies, and two bedrooms, meticulously curated with refined art and design pieces. Ashby's vision was to create an "easy hedonistic experience" that embodies the effortless elegance of Parisian life with a modern twist. The design ethos centers around a livable cabinet of curiosities, incorporating hidden doors and charming architectural details. The apartment showcases a blend of contemporary and bespoke creations, with collaborations involving notable brands such as Dedar, Sacco Carpet, and Phillip Jeffries. A unifying element throughout the space is the consistent use of light travertine with gray stripes, which appears in the kitchen, as a bar support in the living room, on the fireplace in the second bedroom, and in the main bathroom's basin unit. The material palette is further enriched with sophisticated touches of red marble, wool, and silk, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the rooms. Circular movement was a key consideration in the design of each room, intended to foster flow and connection within the apartment. Ashby drew inspiration from the city's outdoor ambiance to inform her color scheme, opting for a serene palette of beige and gray in the living room. The rest of the apartment features earthy tones, punctuated by vibrant hues introduced through carefully selected art pieces. This thoughtful approach to color and texture contributes to the home's distinctly French feel, balancing classic elements with contemporary design principles, functionality, and artistic expression. Throughout the pied-à-terre, bespoke furnishings and fixtures are prominently featured. The living room includes wall coverings by Phillip Jeffries and a Trizo21 ceiling light. A curved sofa from Ashby's "River flow collection" is upholstered in Dedar (Lamberto), complemented by vintage armchairs upholstered in Dedar (Vuk). The main bedroom features a bed and a rug that are collaborations between TIH Joinery, Olga Ashby, and Sacco Carpet, respectively. The entrance hall is adorned with Nathalie Katwal's "Majorele" wall art. In a study area, a rug depicting sun rays is a joint design by Sacco Carpet and Olga Ashby, accompanied by foot stools from Liang and Eimil, upholstered in Dedar (Tiger Beat and A Soft Place). The dining area showcases an ovular wooden table designed by Olga Ashby and Three One Four studio, paired with vintage chairs upholstered in Dedar (A soft place). A dining bench is a custom piece by THI joinery, designed by Ashby and upholstered in Dedar (Alpakhan). The main bathroom features a Lusso Stone bath. The guest office includes a desk by TIH Joinery, designed by Olga Ashby, and an NV Gallery chair upholstered in Dedar (A soft place). The kitchen, with fronts designed by Olga Ashby and TIH joinery, is equipped with ArchiProMenager appliances and Hudson Valley wall lights. The main study features a TIH desk upholstered in Majilite fabric (Finesse Ivory) and bookshelves, both collaborative designs by Ashby and TIH joinery, which include Vellum Faux Books. These details collectively underscore the apartment’s blend of Parisian elegance with modern design and artistic flair. #ParisianPiedATerre #InteriorDesign #OlgaAshby #HaussmannBuilding #LuxuryApartment #BespokeFurniture #FrenchElegance #ContemporaryDesign #HomeDecor

French country houses serve as a significant source of inspiration for creating rustic yet elegant interiors, blending character with a balance of old and new. This style, marked by beautiful architecture and charming decor, offers numerous ideas for homes of various ages and styles, advocating for a lived-in aesthetic and personal touch often overlooked in current trends. This article explores five distinct French country homes, detailing how their owners and designers have crafted characterful and charming schemes. The first example is Maison Noe in Dax, a 1806 'maison de maître' owned by interior designer Benji Lewis. The home features classic symmetrical facades and natural stone brickwork. Lewis's renovation approach emphasizes retaining the original structure's authenticity and reinstating period-appropriate materials. He primarily furnished the home with pieces from local brocantes and antique shops, ensuring they fit scale drawings, and focused on reconditioning and recovering upholstered items to balance preloved charm with comfort. Lewis stresses the importance of a 'brocante factor' to achieve a successful French country look, advising a balance between controlled purchases and a curated mix of interesting items. Manoir Mouret in South West France, built in the 1850s, exemplifies an idyllic French country home surrounded by vineyards. Owner Margaret Reckitt describes the 'maison de maître' as having barns sensitively converted into accommodation. The interiors feature a unifying color palette across all buildings, creating a sense of calm with occasional pops of color. Fabrics and wall coverings often incorporate nature themes, reflecting the surrounding landscape. Antiques, frequently sourced from local fairs, add layers of interest and connect the home to its agricultural history. Sara Silm's petit chateau in the Béarn region, dating back to the 1850s, showcases an enduring old-meets-new aesthetic. Silm, author of "How to French Country," focused on preserving the original charm during restoration. Her color palette is inspired by the local landscape and aged patinas of shutters and doors. Silm layers textures, often starting with the floor using vintage Persian rugs or natural sisal, which contrast with old floorboards or travertine flagstones. She emphasizes a relaxed, unfussy design, integrating wallpaper from her collaboration with Sandberg Wallpaper to express personality and enhance the intimate, warm French country style. Finally, a Maison de Maître in the South of France, owned by Jane Grainger, presents a grand entry with a neutral-finished exterior, offering a more elegant facade than traditional stone. Built in the mid-1800s, this home blends traditional French country style with contemporary additions, designed to feel like a family home while respecting its historical context. Grainger sourced many preloved furniture pieces from brocantes and vide greniers. The home's architectural details, such as well-proportioned rooms, large windows, Juliet balconies, and wooden shutters, are integral to its French country charm, creating a sense of history and light. The overarching lesson from these French country homes is that a harmonious blend of old and new, combined with comfortable, laid-back living, is essential for infusing a home with country charm and character. #FrenchCountryHomes #InteriorDesign #RusticStyle #AntiqueDecor #HomeRenovation #HistoricHomes #DesignInspiration #LivedInAesthetic

Paris-based designer Thibaut Picard, known for his work on luxury hotels like Kasiiya Costa Rica and Hyatt Regency Morocco, took on a rare residential project for a local couple. The clients, a marketing manager and a travel brand director who frequently travel, desired their one-bedroom apartment to evoke the comfort and exclusivity of a five-star hotel suite. Picard aimed to fulfill this by incorporating design elements inspired by their travel experiences. The apartment, approximately 700 square feet, features a dramatic entrance painted in a rich blue-green hue. Picard selected this color for its theatrical quality, intending to create a distinct universe within the space. Initially, the homeowners were hesitant about such a dark color, fearing it would diminish natural light. However, strategically placed cutouts in the transitional area, which also serve as practical spots for keys, convinced them that the apartment would not lack sunlight. The substantial 12-foot ceilings of the Parisian apartment also allowed the dark color to extend throughout the hallway without making it feel overly confined. Seamlessly integrated closets, painted the same shade, blend into the wall, adding to the cohesive design. The bold color scheme extends into the private areas of the apartment. The primary bedroom is adorned in a soft peachy pink, specifically "Pink Coral by Ressource." Picard explains that this shade was chosen to create a sense of comfort and luxury, transforming the bedroom into a boudoir-like retreat. The color subtly shifts throughout the day, appearing pastel in the morning and mauve in the evening, adding dynamic character to the room. The green marbled bathroom continues the rich and sophisticated palette. A key feature of the bedroom is the hidden walk-in closet and dressing area, ingeniously concealed behind what appears to be standard picture-frame molding along one wall. This clever design element fulfills the husband's long-held wish for a secret room, a concept Picard kept in mind throughout the design process. The apartment also incorporates practical and discreet storage solutions. The dining area, which doubles as a workspace for the owners, features built-in shelves behind the marble dining table, perfect for storing art books. Additional hidden storage for tablecloths and serveware is integrated beneath the bench seat and on either side of the shelves. To preserve the apartment's original crown molding, these cabinets are designed to stop just below the full ceiling height. In contrast to the vibrant hues in other parts of the apartment, the open-concept living space adopts a quieter aesthetic with a cool white paint. This choice was made to complement the sage green dining room shelving and to provide a more serene environment where the owners can focus on their work. In the evenings, the living area transforms into a cozy retreat with a mix of sleek mid-century furniture, many pieces upholstered in velvet, offering a comfortable space for relaxation and entertaining. The homeowners recall sharing wine with neighbors during the 18-month renovation, a distant memory now that the project is complete and they can fully enjoy their transformed home. #ParisApartment #ThibautPicard #InteriorDesign #HiddenStorage #ColorPalette #LuxuryLiving #HomeTours #Renovation #MidCenturyModern

French design firm Le Berre Vevaud, comprising Raphaël Le Berre and Thomas Vevaud, undertook the transformation of a three-floor hôtel particulier in Paris’s 16th arrondissement into a functional and luxurious family home. The project aimed to integrate the art of living with comfort for an art-collecting couple and their two children. The initial impression of the property revealed grand volumes and abundant natural light, necessitating extensive redesign. The designers focused on the first-floor living area, dining room, and kitchen, creating an open-plan layout to maximize natural light. To address the six-meter-high ceilings, a mezzanine level was constructed. This elevated platform now serves as an office overlooking the dining room and offers a view of an olive tree. This intervention cleverly utilized vertical space while maintaining the flow and original decadent character of the property. Adjacent walls were opened to create a larger lateral room, framing views between the living and dining areas. The dining room features a cloudy gold leaf canvas by Anne Féat Gaiss, a black round-legged Olbia cabinet from Le Berre Vevaud’s own furniture collection, minimal Sophie S’Assoit chairs from Maison Dada, and a custom marble table beneath a vintage 1950s eight-arm chandelier. The living room showcases mural artwork by Martin Berger, black wood sculptures by Charles Kalpakian, Ignazio Gardella armchairs, and a cantilevered bronze coffee table by Yann Dessauvage. A carved screen in cut-out brushed oak veneer was added to partition the sitting area from the entranceway elevator, which connects to street level. The design draws inspiration from a combination of materials and textures, spanning the Art Deco period to the bold colors and forms of the Memphis movement. Le Berre Vevaud's expertise extended beyond architectural ingenuity to interpreting the couple's extensive art collection within a domestic context. In the entranceway, a 17th-century portrait by Hans Hansen Rasch is casually displayed above a custom Belize bronze console. A bedroom features a Sophie Calle photograph and a pink and gold patterned de Gournay screen by David/Nicolas, alongside a custom-designed bed, presented in an unassuming manner. The home not only provides a backdrop for a diverse art collection—including modern and contemporary sculptures, photographs, paintings, and classical pieces—but also incorporates a 1,000-square-foot spa. Le Berre and Vevaud repurposed part of the ground floor courtyard for this zen-like space. The staircase leading to the spa features dark materials and waxed concrete to create a subdued atmosphere and mimic natural stone textures. Under a gridded skylight, a raised platform houses a circular Jacuzzi. Opposite, a shower room and hammam sauna are adorned with minuscule mosaic tiles designed in collaboration with Beton Blanché, aiming to transport the owners into a tranquil environment within their home. #ParisianHome #HôtelParticulier #LeBerreVevaud #LuxuryDesign #ArtCollectorsHome #SpaDesign #InteriorArchitecture #FrenchDesign #Mezzanine #ArtIntegration

French-Mexican architect and designer Hugo Toro undertook his largest private home project to date: the revitalization of a historic 1911 house on the Left Bank of Paris. This sprawling residence, spanning over 10,000 square feet across six floors, had remained vacant for more than 15 years and was in a state of considerable disrepair upon Toro's initial visit in February 2022. The house featured ornate gilded plasterwork suffering from water damage and mold, with paint peeling from the walls, revealing a fusty Empire red beneath. The brief from the French family acquiring the property was to bridge the gap between the building's historical integrity and contemporary living, respecting its original character while infusing it with a distinct modern vision. Their sole specific request was the inclusion of a fish tank, leading to the installation of a two-and-a-half-ton aquarium in the family room. To achieve this, Toro embarked on a process of unearthing the house’s inherent charm. This involved restoring original elements such as the Art Nouveau curves of the window frames and uncovering a more muted, authentic color palette by meticulously scraping back layers of old paint. The renovation resulted in a blend of classic Parisian grandeur, characterized by soaring high ceilings, expansive windows, wainscoting, meticulously restored moldings, and traditional herringbone floors. This opulence is juxtaposed with a lively 1970s aesthetic, conveyed through a warm amber-hued palette, rich tactile materials, and statement furniture featuring curved, organic shapes. Toro, who admits to appreciating the playful spirit of the 1970s, incorporated this influence to create a vibrant yet elegant atmosphere. Aluminum accents, used for doors, door frames, and cabinetry, were strategically placed to define volumes, add modern polish, and provide a contemporary contrast to the warmth of the wood paneling. The renovated house now boasts six bedrooms, six bathrooms, a swimming pool, a spacious rooftop terrace, and a garden. The interior design showcases several bespoke elements by Toro, including a serpentine sofa in the living room, a seven-meter-long Murano glass chandelier illuminating the central spiral staircase, and a custom platform bed in the principal bedroom designed to create a transitional moment for bedtime. The principal bathroom features a swirling green onyx washbasin and tub, reflecting a luxurious and distinctive material choice. Toro's artistic flair extends to several of his own paintings adorning the walls, which, while distinct from his architectural work, share a common thread of rich texture and a sepia-toned, enveloping palette, influenced by his French-Mexican heritage. The ground-floor family room, designed for comfort and interaction, includes a plush caramel-velvet sofa by Toro, Michel Cadestin’s Yoga chairs, a round glass coffee table, an arcade game, and a football table, demonstrating a commitment to creating a functional and enjoyable family space. The dining room features 1959 Böhlmarks chandeliers, a custom-made rug, and tables designed by Toro, complemented by 1950s chairs by Arne Jacobsen. In the office, a chair by Nacho Carbonell is paired with Maurice Calka's 1971 Boomerang desk. Every aspect of the home's design is intended to immerse and inspire, fostering a warm and interactive environment for its occupants, suitable for year-round use and reflecting the family’s passions. Toro emphasizes that the goal was not merely to create an aesthetically pleasing image but an engaging space that truly invites living and interaction. #HugoToro #ParisianMansion #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalRevitalization #FrenchArchitecture #ContemporaryDesign #HistoricHomes

French Art Deco furniture is gaining significant traction among collectors and interior designers, emerging as a prominent trend after being overshadowed by mid-century modern designs. This style, which flourished in the 1920s and 1930s, is characterized by sleek geometric or stylized forms, distinguishing itself from the earlier Art Nouveau's natural, flowing aesthetics. A key differentiator of French Art Deco, particularly when compared to its American counterpart, is its emphasis on hand-craftsmanship rather than mass production. Esteemed _ébénistes_ or cabinet-makers like Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, René Groult, Paul Dupré-Lafont, and Pierre Legrain created high-quality, one-off pieces, often featuring intricate inlaying, marquetry, and lacquering, each bearing the maker's initials. These pieces are now highly coveted, primarily by those with substantial budgets. Experts in the field, such as Carmine Bruno, CEO of The Bruno Effect, and Anthony Barzilay Freund, director of fine art and editorial director of 1stDibs, confirm the resurgence of French Art Deco's popularity. They highlight its unique blend of traditional fine workmanship with a forward-thinking, modern outlook, which makes the pieces appear both decorative and contemporary. The influence of Cubism further contributes to the perceived modernity and appeal of French Art Deco to collectors and designers. Gérald Remy, heritage curator of the exhibition 'Le Chic! French Decorative Arts and Furniture from 1930 to 1960,' notes that the furniture's sober, clear, and clean lines perfectly align with contemporary interior design preferences, allowing older pieces to be seamlessly integrated into modern spaces. Examples of this trend are evident in recent design projects. US design firm Hoedemaker Pfeiffer incorporated a sideboard by Charles Dudouyt and crushed velvet chairs by Guillerme et Chambron into a mid-century house in Seattle, demonstrating how French Art Deco elements can complement various design eras. The firm's project manager, Peak Petersen, points out that many early 1970s furniture designs were influenced by Art Deco shapes and forms, illustrating the style's lasting impact. Similarly, for a New York City loft, the interior firm Jesse Parris-Lamb drew inspiration from the 1930s Chrysler Building, incorporating pieces by Dudouyt and Paul Frankl, along with fluted glass sconces, a common Art Deco motif. The designers extensively utilized fluting throughout the loft, from architectural partitions to custom bar designs, inspired by its varied application in French Art Deco. Remy suggests that Art Deco furniture aligns well with modern lifestyles, as its aesthetic and functional design allows for easy integration into contemporary environments without requiring a complete design overhaul. For those seeking French Art Deco pieces, Paris's Mobilier National will host the 'Le Chic!' exhibition, showcasing over 200 items from its collections. A significant aspect of this exhibition is the restoration of 129 items by over 50 craftspeople, funded by a 1 million Euro government scheme, which underscores the value and durability of these pieces. Beyond furniture, entire Art Deco buildings in Paris, such as the Louxor cinema and Piscine Molitor, have been meticulously restored, alongside properties like Villa Leïhorra and the French embassy in Belgrade, further attesting to the style's architectural legacy. Despite being succeeded by mid-century modern, Art Deco's influence persists in contemporary design. Designers are commissioning modern pieces inspired by the era, such as a side chair by Home House Co-Op from Jean De Merry, which blends seamlessly with vintage Art Deco items. The design for a kitchen island in Jesse Parris-Lamb's SoHo loft, inspired by a French Deco cocktail shaker, further exemplifies how contemporary design continues to reference and reinterpret French Art Deco origins. #FrenchArtDeco #InteriorDesign #VintageFurniture #DesignTrends #FurnitureDesign #Craftsmanship #ArchitecturalRestoration #HomeDecor #ArtCollectibles