Juliette's Guide to Paris
Photo by Anthony Rodriguez via pexels.
September is always the most significant month in every designer’s calendar. It marks the end of summer and a return to work in double time. New collections from hundreds of brands jostle for attention as our diaries quickly fill up with dates for trade fairs, supplier meetings, gallery viewings and networking events. We always love visiting the Maison et Objet show (any excuse for a weekend in Paris!) however in light of the ongoing pandemic, sadly we’ve had to cancel our trip this year.
While it is a shame to miss out on the show, we are optimistic that we’ll be able to catch up on all the latest trends in Europe at the Paris Deco Off show in January 2022. Until then, I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed and dreaming of that fabulous weekend in Paris on the horizon, pottering around my favourite places…
The Merci concept store in Le Marais. Photo via merciparis on Twitter.
Favourite shop
My top tip for achieving Parisian chic is to visit MERCI in 111 Boulevard Beaumarchais in Le Marais. It is a lifestyle destination with everything displayed within a beautiful townhouse approached by a stunning tranquil courtyard. They have everything from tableware and linen to lighting and antiques, all styled in room sets which inspire you to wander up to all the floors – each one more stunning and unique than the next.
La Brasserie de l’Isle Saint-Louis. Photo via on-the-road-again.
Favourite café
On Isle St Louis there is a wonderful café at 55 Quai de Bourbon called La Brasserie de l'Isle Saint-Louis. Owned by the same family for 50 years, you can enjoy traditional French fare in a lovely historical institution that overlooks the Notre Dame. After lunch, I love to explore the narrow streets and boutiques on the Île Saint-Louis.
Monsieur Bleu in the wing of Palais de Tokyo. Photo via palaisdetokyo.
Favourite restaurant
For one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, lunch or dinner at Monsieur Bleu is a must! Located in the Palais de Tokyo along the Seine, the restaurant was designed by renown architect Joseph Dirand. I love the cool lounge ambience and the amazing high ceilings. The colour scheme of olive green and muted greys complements the modern art museum that it is housed within; the atmospheric outdoor terrace sets the perfect scene for a romantic candlelit dinner with a vista of all the best that Paris has to offer.
Le Musée Picasso. Photo via objektinternational.
Favourite gallery
The Musée Picasso is my first destination when I arrive in Paris. It has over 5,000 works by the iconic artist, including his personal archive of photographs. Le Marais itself is my favourite neighbourhood, with gorgeous mansions, private parks, boutiques and cafes that are full of history and character.
The 18th Arrondissement. Photo via thewaysbeyond.
Favourite walk
Another district that I love is the 18th Arrondissement. Starting at the world famous Moulin Rouge Theatre, I like hiking up to the top of the Sacre Coeur and its 270 steps to the Basilica. The view over Paris there is truly breath-taking as you can see all the charming winding streets away from cars and the busy high street. It always takes me back to a more authentic Paris from years ago.
We are so looking forward to returning to the ‘City of Light’, whenever it is safe to do so. In the meantime, we are grateful that there are plenty of other local design events happening this autumn including Focus/21 at the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre and Decorex in Olympia. I’m sure there will be no shortage of design inspiration right here in London!