1. THE POWER OF THE UNDERSTATEMENT
The secret behind effortless style lies in subtlety. 'Living like a true Parisian goes beyond aesthetics,' explains interior designer Lichelle Silvestry. 'It is a lifestyle characterized by effortless sophistication and refined liveability.'
2. THE CONTRAST BETWEEN SIMPLE AND EXPRESSIVE
Whether dealing with historic housing stock and classical features, or a more modern property, these are spaces that hang on the balance of contrast between old and contemporary, minimalist, but with flourish.
3. EMBRACING CULTURE
For interior designer Stéphanie Coutas, French interior design is informed by its setting. 'I think we have a “French touch” through our culture, love for art, and our beautiful Haussmann buildings,' Stéphanie says. 'Our architecture is unique and the way we design spaces is inspired by the DNA and history of the city that surrounds us.'
4. RESPECTING SYMMETRY
For some modern interior designers, asymmetry is a tool that separates modern from classic interior design. However, in Parisian design, symmetry in interior design is something that bridges the old and new. 'There's a certain symmetry quite unique to Parisian decors where every element is carefully thought out, such as the design of the ceilings,' Fabrice Juan explains.
5. ENTERTAINING SPACES
Parisian design isn't without its exuberance either, and part of how culture influences design in the city's home is in how homes are designed to accommodate guests. 'Entertaining with elegance and a zest of irreverence are natural attributes of French attitude and interiors,' says Parisian interior designer Aline Asmar d’Amman. 'French art de vivre is all about the festive feeling and lifestyle, mixing the old and new.'