Parisian Inspired Design

What could be more glamorous than a Parisian inspired room? Even the name itself sounds glamorous. Paris is one of the fashion capitals of the world and one of four host cities for the semi-annual Fashion Week. Last year I remember reading about one of Lynda Reeve's (founder and publisher for House & Home Magazine) trips to Paris for Fashion Week. She explained how Paris is not only an inspiration for clothes, but for interior design. Quite often, not long after a look has been seen on the runway, we see similar patterns and colours popping up in fabrics for furnishings.

Come Fall 2013, if the interior design trends follow fashion's footsteps, we may be seeing high contrast black and white fabrics.

Biggest trends for fashion for fall/winter 2013 was contrasting ebony and ivory. 

 If there has been one thing I have learned from years of reading design magazines, is that the best way to get longevity from a room, is to treat it the same way you would an outfit. Pillows and accessories are the jewelry of a space. If you keep the major pieces neutral, you can easily reinvent a room with different coloured pillows, etc. that can be changed with the seasons. And if Parisian's know anything about fashion, they certainly know a thing or two about design.

Parisian style for me is all about sophisticated opulence. When you think of sophisticated glamour, I bet the last person you would think of is Mick Jagger. But the Paris home he shares with L'Wren Scott (well known fashion designer and model) is a example of jaw-dropping style. In 2009, their home was featured in VOGUE and this blog shows some of the photos. Here are my favourites...

Mouldings add sophistication that Parian design is known for. 

The buildings in Paris, as with any European countries, have a long history. Parisian style is traditional, classic... and pays unbelievable attention to detail. Furniture is tailored, drapery is custom made. Touches such as silver or gold leafed furniture, and mirrored pieces are what this style is all about.

Need some more ideas? Restoration Hardware is all about the Parisian style...

Here are some tips to create a Parisian look in your own home:

• Use neutral tones for the walls. If you want a more bold option, go for a soft peach or pink...or add a patterned wallpaper with a bit of sheen. 

• Add a crystal chandelier, sconces or table lamps. Crystals reflect light and gives the room some sparkle. Mirrors or mirrored furniture is another way to add instant glam. 

• Black and white vintage photos  set in metallic frames add elegance.

• Don't forget the mouldings! It's not a necessity, but adding this detail will take your Parisian room to the next level. They add instant character to a space and will give your room a completed look. 

Remember, if anything, keep the look, soft and delicate. The look should be slightly feminine and romantic. After all, Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world.

The Deluxe Suite at the Le Meurice Hotel in Paris.

Links:



http://houseandhome.com/blogs/about

http://bellevivir.blogspot.ca/2012/04/lwren-scotts-parisian-pied-terre.html

http://www.vogue.com/magazine/article/lwren-scott-and-mick-jagger-parisian-perch/#1

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/afc8dec6-864a-11e2-8f47-00144feabdc0.html#slide0

http://www.restorationhardware.com

http://lawnmoweroil949.wordpress.com/2011/09/15/help-to-make-your-home-feel-and-look-parisian/

http://www.swell-group.co.uk/town/paris/apartment/bedroom/

http://www.lemeurice.com/deluxe-suite