Bringing Paris Trends Home

Paris has been at the forefront of fashion and design trends for the better part of a century. Get the true Parisian look without cheesy eiffel tower knick-knacks with some of these helpful tips.

Tiny Spaces

Parisienne apartments are tiny. It’s a city, so Parisiennes have mastered the art of creating beautiful spaces that function. This means everything has at least two purposes. Countertops in the kitchen and baths always have shelves and cabinets installed. The more compartments the better.

Create Depth

On that note, the best way to create the illusion of space is to add texture to your home. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, and even wallpaper fabrics should always compliment each other, rather than match. Think satin against cloth against dramatic textures like feather and plush fabrics. Natural, unfinished wooden tables work really well against smooth, modern metallic fixtures.

Devil’s in the Details

Molding. All Parisienne flats have it. Craftsmen add personal touches to their work in Paris with delicate woodwork in molding around doors and windows. Clean spaces and color palettes are made elegant with delicate touches of baroque flair.

Versailles

The Hall of Mirrors in Versailles is an incredible “corridor” made even more impressive by the illusion of infinity create by floor-to-ceiling mirrors. Channel Versailles by adding a floor to length mirror or two to any entertaining space.

Of Trunks and Seating

Parisiennes are always on their feet. So coming home should be a place to kick back and put your feet up. Turning old travel trunks into seating is as easy as upholstering the lid with a patterned fabric. Again, space saving is key, so doubling seating as a place to store throws, books, and other knick-knacks is essential.

How else can you bring some of the City of Light into your home? Leave an idea or two in the comments and join the conversation!