French lessons
I am inspired by many of the details found in French design, both old and new. The regal yet comfortable form of a bergere chair, the intricate painted details on a bedroom dresser and a collection of crystal candlesticks are each welcoming symbols of the style. True French design places value on fine linens for all occasions and puts them to use everywhere, from tabletops to window dressings. There is an attention to detail that spans generations, a love for their history and the affluent way of life that now circumvents all classes and can be seen in simple farmhouses as well as in a Paris pied-a-terre.
A celebration of refined meets mid-century modern fills the pages of a gorgeous new book by Betty Lou Phillips, “The French Way With Design,” published by Gibbs Smith. In this oversized coffee table tome, Dan Piassick’s grand photographs literally invite you in to sit at a round steel chateaux dining table on one of the tailored Parsons chairs or the richly upholstered curved banquette. Phillips has chosen homes on both sides of the Atlantic that have been decorated in the French way, and they make it look effortless. The homeowners’ lifestyles are enriched by their surroundings. Every room has surprises, secrets and inviting charm.
One of my favorite rooms is the harmonious living room shown here. It glorifies textiles’ important qualities. There is so much more to any fabric when it is wrapped, sewn or hung in such a way as to show off its texture and color. “Luxury is in each detail,” proclaimed Hubert de Givenchy, French aristocrat and fashion designer. In a modern take on tradition, distinctive waterfall pleats, intricately rendered in Clarence House linen, tumble from a custom-made sofa. The cushions are softened with Turkish corners. Blue and white striped draperies keep the mood casual, while softly pleated lampshades add another dimension to the wealth of textures. The room is washed in shades of blue – not just the fabrics, but the mixed-media paintings on panels by Marissa Starr, finished with a high-gloss resin, that shine like the Mediterranean Sea behind a chic chandelier.
Phillips shows stunning examples of the French kitchen where everything is sous la main, meaning within easy reach or literally under the hand. She notes that professional-looking appliances and state-of-the-art cabinets are often missing. Instead, open shelves brim with pitchers, pottery, platters and other paraphernalia that illustrate just how passionate the French are about their cuisine.
Gleaming copper pots, pans, bowls and molds hang in clear view.
Wooden countertops are cluttered with cutting boards, a chef’s collection of knives, small appliances and baskets for breads, fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs. The decor is most often rustic, where unglazed, oversized squares or octagons of terra-cotta tile have the flavor of Provence, Burgundy and the Loire Valley, where clay is plentiful. Floors are wood, stone or black-and-white tile.
For tips on hanging art, Phillips dedicates a chapter to timeless lessons taught by the French museums on the art of hanging art, not an easy task. One lesson states, “Whereas small paintings scattered around a room disappear on generous walls, when grouped together and hung inches apart, they make a strong statement.” There are 12 more lessons – one more reason to seek out this essential guide to French decorating, which provides lessons that can be put into practice anywhere, any time.
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