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Le Mary Celeste: Coastal Cool in the Middle of the Marais

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When I arrived in Paris last month, everyone immediately told me that I needed to visit the new oyster and cocktail bar, Le Mary Celeste, in the Marais. After a day spent wandering the angular streets of the Marais, circling back on the same streets by accident, I finally came across the curve of rue Commines, and just at its point was Le Mary Celeste. An open bar at the end of a triangular block with a pale blue exterior—a calm setting for a tired-footed traveler.

The owners, New Yorker's Josh Fontaine, Adam Tsou, and Colombian-born Carina Soto Velasquez Tsou previously worked with David Rager and Cheri Messerli of Weekends on the nearby Taqueria Candelaria (it's a small world). After the success of Candelaria, the trio and the duo paired up once again to design the interior of Le Mary Celeste, which is located in a former video editing office. The restaurant has a nautical vibe: rope coiled around columns, white-washed brick and seafoam green paint, and a tropical mural of a toucan. Top it off with slow Elvis ballads rotating in a vintage LP player in the back of the room—you'd swear that you were in a coastal village somewhere, and not deep in the streets of Paris.

Photography by Alexa Hotz for Remodelista.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Fontaine described the origin of new restaurant's namesake to Vogue in February: "It was a boat in the 19th century that left New York carrying a cargo of pure alcohol and then was found adrift, all provisions on board, except for the crew."

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Large windows are on either side of the restaurant make for an open air feel.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: On the menus, typography by Rager and collages on the back by Rosemarie Auberson.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The interior, formerly a video editing office, was stripped down by Rager and Messerli, who built it back up again from scratch.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The brick was reclaimed from building sites around the area and whitewashed.

Le Mary Celeste Table and Chairs, Remodelista

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The modular hex tables, barstools, and slatted backlit banquettes were all custom-built. The stained glass window designs were all done by Messerli.

Nautical Rope Details at Le Mary Celeste, Remodelista

Above L: Glassware is wrangled with rope, tied together with proper nautical knots. Above R: Basic rope is tightly wrapped around the restaurant's columns.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: A vintage stereo setup is matched with vintage LPs.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: A bucket of just-watered succulents behind the bar.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Whitewashed bricks are color-blocked with seafoam green paint. The lighting is by LA-based artist Heather Levine.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Watercolor flags hang above the back stairs.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: White chevron parquet, on the ceiling.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The deck flooring that surrounds the bar along with the bar top are made from wood palettes that were previously used for shaping cement forms.

Le Mary Celeste in the Marais in Paris, Remodelista

For more places to visit in and around Paris see our Travels with an Editor: Paris series and visit our Paris City Guide.

Location of Le Mary Celeste in Paris:
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At Home with an Artful Couple in the South of Paris

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In 1927, sculptor Alexander Calder welcomed Jean Cocteau and Joan Miro to his ground floor studio in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. After Calder, there was a German artist, and then an American printmaker, Harold Altman. While Altman was working in the rue Cels studio, architect Nicolas Soulier and artist Cécile Daladier were bringing up their four children in Lyon.

In the early 2000s, the Soulier-Daladier family returned to Paris and met Altman, who was, by happy coincidence, looking to pass the studio on to another artist. When he approached the design of the family's new home, Nicolas wanted to maintain the framework of the building while renovating it from the inside. "We could not change anything without reinforcing it; we were lucky to be able to even install this metal structure," Nicolas says of the staircase. After a tour of the garden and Cécile's atelier (seen on Gardenista today), we ascended the stairs for a tour of the rest of the home.

Photography by Natalie Weiss (except where noted).

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: A dark green metal gate at the front of the driveway on rue Cels. To see Nicolas and Cécile's garden, see our post on Gardenista: In the Garden and Atelier with Cécile Daladier.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above L: Concrete floors and an iron structure in a super-washed-out blue. Above R: A garland of colored felt flags hangs over the stairs.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: On the second floor, above the atelier, is the spacious living room. During the renovation, Nicolas changed the height of the ceiling to give the room more space and light. In the corner, a Noguchi lamp; Cécile's prized possession. "Everything I do is inspired by Noguchi," she explains.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Hidden storage: A closet niche is hidden behind built-in bookshelves.

Green Glassware from Germany, Remodelista

Above: A collection of glassware from industrial Weimar Bauhaus artist Wilhem Wagenfeld.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The living room table began as a Capteur, a garden sculpture designed by the couple's collaborative project, Assaï. After topping with glass, it's now a coffee table. "It's a little like our house—it's been transformed," Nicolas says.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Cécile and Nicolas preparing afternoon tea in the kitchen.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Nicolas designed the concrete sink.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Nicolas recounts the building of the concrete table: "The stone mason was not happy to work with so much concrete and told us, 'No, it is impossible to make a table in concrete,' but it worked perfectly fine. Later I found him sitting at the table eating a meal and he remembered, 'When I was a child I ate dinner with my mother at a concrete table.' It wasn't until he sat there that he remembered this aspect of his childhood."

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: In a sense, the concrete table represents the couple's work together. Within the concrete and iron table, an Ikebana-inspired vase for Cécile's flowers.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: A view of the integrated vase and iron table from beneath.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: In the upstairs window, a built-in zinc shelf supports a garden of potted flowers.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The small upstairs bath is custom-designed by the couple—zinc window boxes seen in the garden outside are also found here.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: The couple's bedroom under the eaves; photograph by Alexa Hotz for Remodelista.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Antique fans, a paper flower, and a linen cocktail napkin from Coral & Tusk.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above: In the bedroom, a mix of patterned quilts and bright colored fabrics.

House Call with Cécile Daladier and Nicolas Soulier in Paris, Remodelista

Above L: A large bedroom window looks across the courtyard. Above R: A trio of vases hold jewelry and a flower cutting on the marble-topped chest of drawers.

When we first discovered Cécile and Nicolas' work, we posted about them in A Ceramicist and an Architect in Paris and Flower Arranging a la Parisienne.

The World's Most Beautiful Light Switches, by Way of France

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French company Meljac was founded by Andre Bousquet, an engineer by trade who noticed that electrical equipment was lacking in the aesthetics department. His solution? A line of of sockets, switches, and other fittings featuring refined finishes and quality craftsmanship. Now, his products have finally ventured across the pond: Meljac's first foray into the US market is focused on low-voltage lighting systems—not meant for replacing a switch or two, but intended for a full lighting system upgrade. The cost is comparable to Lutron or Creston low voltage hardware but with finishes that no other line offers. 

Meljac hardware is available to the trade from LVLighting. (Note that Meljac sockets are UL approved, but their switches are not.)

Meljac Switch, Remodelista

Above: Meljac's designs are inspired by industrial 1930s France (note the drop-shaped toggle switch). 

Meljac Round Low Voltage Light Switch, Remodelista

Above: Meljac hardware is made in France of high quality brass. Switches are available in 16 finishes and eight styles, including the Round Plate 2 Two-Way Switch, shown here in brushed nickel. Contact LVLighting for pricing and ordering information.

Meljac Canon Gray Switch, Remodelista

Above: The Eclipse Collection Plate 1 Two-Way Switch, shown in rifle gun slate. 

Meljac Light Switches, Remodelista

Above L: The Oval 1 Two-Way Switch in brushed nickel. Above R: The Limoges Collection Porcelain Plate 1 Switch in white porcelain with a chrome toggle. 

Meljac Dimmer Switch, Remodelista

Above: Meljac offers a range of controls for lighting as well as temperature and sound. Here, the simple Plate 1 Dimmer Switch

Meljac Floor Outlet, Remodelista

Above: Reminiscent of nautical hardware, the Round Plate 1 Ground Socket has a water resistant cover. UL-approved for US line voltage, Meljec sockets will fit in a US outlet box.

Meljac Outlet with cover, Remodelista

Above: The Plate 1 Socket with Cover is made of thick brass. Shown in a blasted nickel finish, the plate is also available in a screwless option for an even cleaner look.

Meljac Door Bells, Remodelista

Above: Meljac's first products were switches and sockets, but their range soon expanded to other tools like thermostats and doorbells. We like the Aluminum Macaroon Doorbell, shown here.

Not upgrading your electrical system anytime soon? Consider replacing your Switch Plate Covers for a small change with a big impact.

The Cows Come Home

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Living the urban life but hankering for the rural idyll? Italian designer Marcantonio Raimondi Malerba has designed a set working farm animals that will continue to make themselves useful in your kitchen. 

Above: From working farm to organized kitchen.

Marcantonio Raimondi Malerba, Sending Animals Convenient Cow, Seletti, Remodelista

Above: Malerba's set of Sending Animals is made from reclaimed plywood.

Marcantonio Raimondi Malerba, Sending Animals Convenient Cow, Seletti, Remodelista

Above: Sending Animals are produced by Seletti; €3,500 for Convenient Cow and €949 for Convenient Pig

Looking for other ways to incorporate plywood into your decor? See 231 images of Plywood in our Gallery of rooms and spaces. 

5 Favorites: White Plates as Wall Decor

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Noticed lately: appealing wall collages made with white porcelain plates and trays (our favorite plate hangers, by the way, are the Disc Adhesive Plate Hangers from England, which can support plates 8 to 12 inches in diameter; other sizes also available; $2.99 at Amazon).

ann agee wall mural

Above: Ann Agee's White Cloud #2 is made from glazed porcelain with a steel armature; photo via Locks Gallery.

White Plates as Wall Decor, Remodelista

Above: A hallway in the Puglia hotel Borgo Egnazia (fun fact: it's where Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel threw a wedding party).

Above: A study in white (note that some of the plates are hung backward). Image via Vt Wonen.

Above: A wall decorated with delicate ceramics at the Pensao Favorita in Porto, Portugal.

Salt table chair dwr

Above: White plates as wall decor in a DWR tableau. The $99 Salt Chair (now available in black, white, red, and gray) and $595 Salt Table are available at Design Within Reach.

See more ideas for plates as decor in Plates Displayed Backward and Plates as Wall Decor.

High/Low: Cumulus Light

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We've been admiring the floaty, ethereal Cumulus pendant light from Enoki for a while now. So we couldn't help but notice when a similar light surfaced at Restoration Hardware recently.

enoki cumulus light

Above: The Enoki Cumulus Pendant Light with white muslin shade and Tasmanian oak frame is AU $550 from Zuku Trading

enoki flat pack

Above: The Enoki arrives in a flat pack container; assembly instructions are included.

portico lantern

Above: The Portico Lantern is made of natural linen stitched around a metal frame; it's available in white, pink, or gray; $169 at Restoration Hardware Baby & Child.

Another favorite floaty fabric light? The Koushi Lamp by Mark Eden Schooley.

 

The Slow Life in Paris, Baby and Chien Included

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Last summer, I spent two whole afternoons pouring over the blog of Jae-Hyun Cheong and Stéphane Froger, owners of Le Petit Atelier de Paris. Their picnics in Normandy, handmade porcelain pottery, and leisurely lifestyle left me a little wistful but resulted in a post about the shop, an infatuation with Shiba Inus (thanks to their mascot, Pompon), and eventually a trip in person last month.

Since we posted on the shop, Cheong and Froger now have a newborn baby—an addition to the Le Petit Atelier clan. Read more about the shop and discover why their motto is "Du bonheur au quotidien" ("Happiness in the everyday") at Petit Atelier de Paris.

Photography by Alexa Hotz for Remodelista.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: The simple shop exterior, just off rue de Montmorency in the Marais.

Ceramics at Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: A wooden basket of Galet (Stone) Vases (€14 each) and a grouping of small Espresso Cups (€6 each).

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: A simple plank of wood and black iron sawhorses function as display tables in the small shop.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: Assiette Moule à Gâteau engraved with: amour, bonheur, santé, amitié, prospérité, and réussite; €9 each.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: In addition to porcelain vases and tableware, Cheong and Froger sell enamel switch plates and wall hooks.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: Small and Large Coloquinte Vases made from porcelain; prices range from €14 to €26.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: At Le Petit Atelier, the packaging is equally as important as the item it holds; the pale wooden boxes stacked in the window.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: A Serviette Herbier, illustrated by Joanna Concejo, hangs on the stone wall in the shop; €15.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: Small and large espresso cups in an open desk.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: Pouchettes of stickers and magnetic ceramic stars and flowers.

A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

Above: Pom Pom poses for a photograph in the back courtyard.

  A Visit to Le Petit Atelier de Paris, Remodelista

For more places to visit in and around Paris see our Travels with an Editor: Paris series and visit our Paris City Guide.

Location of Le Petit Atelier de Paris:


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A Romantic Garden at the Edge of the Sea in France

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Located in Normandy near the seaside city of Cabourg, famous both for its mild winters and for being the real-life inspiration for Marcel Proust's fictional Balbec resort, is a romantic garden created by French landscape designer Louis Benech.

Benech, whose later work has been informed by the time he spent as a member of the team hired to revitalize the Tuilieries Garden in Paris in the early 1990s, likes to create a formal structure—and then soften it with naturalistic plantings.

Photographs via Louis Benech.

 

Above: The way that plants grow naturally in the wild inspires Benech's garden designs. "The basis of my gardens is native plants, and then I add exotic things to the mixture to make a blend," he told an Architectural Digest interviewer recently.

Above: Benech, a lifelong plant lover who as a young man considered gardening a hobby, focused instead on international law in school. But after graduation he took a job as a nurseryman in Hampshire, England. His big break as a garden designer came in the 1990s when he was a member of the team hired to restore the Jardin des Tuileries.

 

Above: Benech has designed hundreds of gardens around the world, and has imbued each with a lyrical romanticism. "His approach, which combines French formality with a loose naturalism, serves as a good lesson for American gardeners, who tend to consider the two mutually exclusive," a New York Times reviewer wrote recently.

Above: A study in yellow: irises, climbing roses and lady's mantle.

Above: Tightly clipped formal hedges hold more naturalistic plantings at bay.

Above: For a look at more of Benech's modern romanticism, 'Of What Use is the Tuileries to Us?'

 

 


DIY: A Tres Elegant Dog Bed, Paris Edition

Expert Advice: A Day in the Marais

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When Alexa headed to Paris, she realized that much of what she wanted to see was centered in the third and fourth arrondissements. While she was there, we asked her to put together a one-day tour of the Marais with all our favorite places and her latest finds. If you find yourself with only one day in Paris, we suggest you arm yourself with this little guide and set out for a day's walk through the Marais—the best way to get a big dose of Paris in 24 hours.

Photography by Alexa Hotz.

Green Tea Cake at Rose Bakery in Paris, Remodelista

Remodelista: Best way to begin a day in the Marais?
Alexa Hotz: Start with Rose Bakery's green tea cake or the pistachio one and a good coffee.

Christophe Lemaire Store in Paris, France, Remodelista

RM: Where to explore first?
AH: Walk through Le Marché Aux Enfants Rouge, a covered market full of fruit stands, traiteurs, and places for cheap eats. Then head over to Christophe Lemaire's for a look at the clothing (he designs for Hermès). He sells these Cartouchières—small belted leather pouches—so good that I really regret passing one up.

Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature, Remodelista

RM: Next?
AH: For an absolutely only-in-France experience, visit the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (Museum of Hunting and Nature), which was recommended to me by a few trusted friends. The private museum was founded in 1964 by industrialist rug maker François Sommer and his wife, Jacqueline, in honor of their dedication to hunting and conservation. Think taxidermy-meets-opulence and you get the gist.

  Nanashi, Paris: Remodelista

RM: Lunch spot?
AH: Head straight to the cult favorite bento spot, Nanashi, on Rue Charlot. Chef Kaori Endo, formerly of Rose Bakery, cooks up bento boxes with mixed quinoa and pickled vegetables—top it with a juice of the day and you've got the right antidote to all those pastries.

The Broken Arm in the Marais of Paris, Remodelista

RM: Where to next?
AHNear Square du Temple park you'll find The Broken Arm, where you can order a post-lunch coffee from the cafe and sift through the adjoining boutique with its mix of clothing and goods for the home. Afterward, head around the corner to the best book shop in Paris, Ofr, where you can stock up on art, design, and architecture books.

Le Petit Atelier de Paris in the Marais, Remodelista

RM: Any other shops to see?
AH: Le Petit Atelier is a must. Visit Jae-Hyun Cheong and Stéphane Froger, their newborn, and their mascot dog, Pompon, in their shop, where they sell a selection of delicate handmade porcelain dishes, pendant lights, and switch plates, as well as plenty of other goods for the home.

Brushes at Merci in Paris, Remodelista

AH: And of course you have to head to Merci to see what's new and stock up on linens and household brushes, then have a look at Bonton, the retail emporium for children nearby.

Atelier Brancusi at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, Remodelista

RM: Other places to visit?
AH: The Atelier Brancusi is a must-see and is free of charge (but it closes at 6pm).  A whole small building is devoted to the Romanian-born sculptor's studio that he bequeathed to the Pompidou. The Centre Pompidou is well worth a visit, too, and stays open until 9pm, good for post-dinner browsing.

RM: Favorite place for dinner in the neighborhood?
AH: Get a Breton-style glass of cider and buckwheat crêpe at Breizh Cafe (thanks to Heidi Swanson for this recommendation). If you're not in the mood for crêpes, then have a cocktail and an oyster at Le Mary Celeste or, if like me, you are suffering from a little French food ennui, try the California-style fare at Candelaria for the city's hippest tacos. Make sure you walk past the front counter and all the way to the back to find the restaurant.

For more places to visit in and around Paris, see our Travels with an Editor: Paris series and visit our Paris City Guide.

Here's a map with the locations noted:


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Monsieur Bleu: A Parisian Restaurant with Attitude

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As a little girl, it was patently obvious, at least to me, that the book characters Eloise from the Plaza and Madeline from Paris were best friends. And now as a grownup girl, I am certain that the next time Eloise is in Paris, Madeline will take her to meet Monsieur Bleu at the Palais de Tokyo. 

Eloise and her opulent Plaza digs never quite did it for me, though, because I thought the ultimate in understated chic was Madeline’s spartan Parisian Catholic boarding school room (who can forget the two rows of orderly beds and those tall ceilings?). In Monsieur Bleu (named after a fictional character), the hit restaurant of the Paris season this year, architect Joseph Dirand combines minimalist details with luxurious materials and creates a heady mix on a grand scale—the perfect setting for an Eloise and Madeline rendezvous before their viewing of the latest exhibition at the mecca of the Parisian modern and contemporary art scene, the Palais de Tokyo

Unless otherwise noted, photography by Adrien Dirand via Yatzer.

Bright green velvet and dark green marble banquette seating at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista

Above: The designer of glamorous boutiques around the world (Chloé in Paris, Alexander Wang in Beijing, and Pucci in New York, to name a few), French architect Joseph Dirand uses the large scale of the Palais de Tokyo built in 1937 to set a glamorous scene (it's the place to be seen if you're in Paris this summer).

Banquette seating at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista

Above: Dirand uses minimal detailing as a framework for a wealth of luxurious materials.

Bright green velvet and dark green marble banquette seating at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista  

Above: The architect layers a bright green velvet on a dark green marble to create the banquette seating. 

Bright green velvet and dark green marble banquette seating at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista

Above: The minimally detailed slab of marble door frame almost goes unnoticed and yet its presence is felt. 

Bright green velvet and dark green marble banquette seating at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista

Above: The layering of space creates interesting views. 

Bright green velvet and dark green marble banquette seating at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista

Above: Intimate seating areas are carved out of the grand space.

Floor to ceiling brass panel at Monsieur Bleu by Joseph Dirand, Remodelista

Above: A dash of gold adds to the glamor while warming up the palette. 

Above: With a view of the Eiffel Tower from the terrace, there's no question of where you are. Photograph via Joseph Dirand

For more places to visit in and around Paris, see our series on Travels with an Editor: Paris and visit our Paris City Guide

See location of Monsieur Bleu and Palais de Tokyo in map below:


View Larger Map

Giving Thanks: Paris' Most Exciting Shop Is Now Online

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We first posted on Paris' charitable superstore, Merci, back in 2009 when owners Bernard and Marie-France Cohen (the founders of children's line Bonpoint) opened the shop in an old factory building. Today it's a cult classic, and every Parisian I met had at least ten things from Merci in their house. Now that they're online (good news for those of us on the other side of the ocean), Merci is worth another look.

Photography by Alexa Hotz for Remodelista.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: The Cohens' shop is a completely charitable concept store, with proceeds going to children's charities in Madagascar. Since the end of 2012, more than 900 children have benefitted from a well-balanced meal in paternship with PAM (World Feeding Program) and schools in Ankilimivony, Ankilibory, and Ambola have continued to run thanks to donations from Merci.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: A series of 330L Bacsac Planters, made from a felt interior for drainage and anti-UV and frostproof polypropylene; €128 each.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Upon entering the shop, to your right you'll find the coffee bar and library of donated books and overhead, a rotating exhibition of the moment (this time Merci was all about brooms and brushes). Also on the ground floor: an Aesop and Annick Goutal boutique as well as menswear.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Pass under the brooms and just a half a floor up is womenswear, accessories, and shoes.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Downstairs is Merci's other cafe, garden, and kitchenware (plus enamel lighting priced below what you find in the US). Above are high quality rubber gloves on the cheap.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Falconware Enamel Tumblers in classic colors for €7.90.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Industrial-like bins of smaller Bacsac planters.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Randomly placed shelves on a wall of white bricks display the top products of the moment.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Head upstairs for furniture, dining accessories, stationery, and their famous French household linen.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Colorful Holdall Bags for €19 made from the same soft European linen used in Merci's bed linens.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

Above: Shades of green on a fully set table on the upstairs floor.

Merci Shop in Paris, France, Remodelista

If you're in Paris now, drop by for a look at the latest installation: a collaboration with John Malkovich. For more places to visit nearby see our Travels with an Editor: Paris series and visit our Paris City Guide.

Location of Merci below: 


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Map Quest: Paris en Famille

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Just off the press: Paris en Family, a vacation-changing annotated map to the city. Published by Herb Lester Associates, a British design studio specializing in the world’s most charming, retro-looking guides, it’s pretty enough to be framed. But keep it on hand so you can read all about the 40 highlighted spots, from the Pont Neuf, the bridge out of Madeline’s Rescue, to the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (taxidermy galore)—and all the places to stop for chocolate mousse, macaroons, and pastries in between. 

Paris en Famille map

Above: Paris en Famille is the work of Yolanda Edwards, one of the canniest travelers we know. In addition to being the executive editor of Martha Stewart Living and a founder of the parenting site Momfilter, Edwards charts her adventures with her photographer husband, Matthew Hranek, and their young daughter in her blog, Travels with Clara. Designed and illustrated by Anna Hurley, Paris en Famille is litho printed in England on recycled paper; £4 from Herb Lester Associates.

paris en famille yolanda edwards

Above: Open, the map measures approximately 11 1/2 inches by 16 1/2 inches.

paris en famille map yolanda edwards

Above: All of the key arrondissements are covered—with options for activities, attractions, shopping, and food. And rest assured, Yolanda’s choices keep parents as well as kids in mind. Breakfast at Café Marly, anyone?

Beau, Bio, Eco: Couleur Chanvre in France

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French fabric company Couleur Chanvre produces rustic yet refined linens made from unbleached hemp grown in France. Dedicated to green manufacturing (the motto is "beau, bio, eco"), the company achieves the natural palette through organic vegetable dyes. Prices start at €30 for a pillowcase; worldwide shipping available. To see the full line, go to Couleur Chanvre.

  couleur chanvre mauve

Above: A mix of pale pink and darker mauve linen sheets; prices start at €125 for a Drap Plat Chanvre Pur.

couleur chanvre lace

Above: Lace-edged linens are also available.

couleur chanvre olive

Above: A mix of navy, gray, and olive green: genius.

couleur chanvre apron

Above: The Hemp Apron is €57.

Couleur Chanvre also makes vegetable-dyed, organic hemp shower curtains in rugged earth tones.

 This post is an update; the original ran on February 18, 2009.

5 Favorites: Beautiful French Soaps, House Gift Edition

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On our radar lately: perfectly packaged, delightfully fragrant French soaps (perfect as a house gift if you're invited away for the weekend). Here are five we're coveting:

French soap: Remodelista

Above: We particularly like the packaging on this French Soap by Cousu de Fil Blanc; $14 from Alder & Co.

Cote Bastide Soap: remodelista

Above: Paper-wrapped Fleur d'Oranger Soap by Cote Bastide; $22 from Kneen & Co.

copagnie de Provence Soap: Remodelista

Above: Compagnie de Provence offers a whole range of Fragrant Bar Soaps with modern packaging. For the fragrance phobic, they also offer a Perfume Free Soap shown here. All soaps are $6.50.

French Soap Remodelista

 Above: Masculine-looking Olive Soap on a Rope; $16.90 from Durance.

Alsace-soap: Remodelista

Above: Reglisse de mon Enfance Soap, handmade in Alsace by Maud Siegel. Available only in France from Chez VLC for €4.

Looking for something made closer to home? See our post on Fancy Black Soap from Hudson Made.


Style Counsel: Unfussy French Girl Style with Lucile Demory

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I first got to know Lucile in the same way many friendships begin these days, through email. After writing back and forth for a few months, we finally met in Paris last month; what struck me immediately was her effortless, well-tailored classic style and her warm personality.

Lucile works for A.P.C. from their flagship offices, producing their seasonal photo shoots for look books, campaigns, and special events (she also works with ceramicist Cécile Daladier in her Paris atelier). She started out studying museology at Paris Unis, and after interning with an event-planning agency, landed her current position. When she was offered the spot she thought, "I love A.P.C. already, the perfect job at the perfect brand." Today, most of her wardrobe is comprised of French-style classics coupled with a simple look focused on natural beauty (antiseptic lavender water, one lipstick here, a little nail polish there). Read on for her tips and everyday basics, and for more from Lucile's keen eye, visit her blog Post-Patternism.

Photography by Natalie Weiss for Remodelista.

Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Lucile's room in the 19th arrondissement flat she shares with her sister, Clarisse Demory.

Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

Remodelista: How would you describe your personal style?

Lucile Demory: With my clothing, I gravitate toward a more tailored, tidy look. I wear shirts and fitted pants and lipstick—but then, I'm not trying to look like a business girl either so I won't wear shirts with pointy collars. Colors and fabric dictate my choices: floral patterns, lots of earthy, soft color. I only really buy cotton or wool, sometimes silk. I would rather own fewer clothes but all of good quality, which I do actually. I hate being cluttered with things and tend to give away my clothes if I don't wear them anymore. I find it really satisfying to get rid of things and I never keep anything "just in case."

Wardrobe from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

RM: Wardrobe basics?

LD: Wedges for shoes because I'm short and I want to wear heels but I can't walk in them. Chinos or A.P.C. Petit Standard Jeans, and button-up shirts—I wear loads of them. When you wear clothes that fit and feel just fine, I think it helps to be more confident. There is nothing worse than trousers that you need to pull up every five minutes or a viscose shirt. My perfect outfit would be navy blue chinos, a simple leather hand bag, and a black macintosh.

A.P.C. Leather Wedges from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

Above: Lucile wears A.P.C.'s Perforated Wedge Sandal in golden yellow tanned calfskin leather.

RM: What season works best for you?

LD: Summer is great. Although I prefer spring, actually, because I sunburn very quickly and need to be careful. Spring is perfect because I can start wearing my favorite outfits, I can find shoes, and start wearing my skirts because I don't like to wear tights. In the winter I find it really hard to find shoes and I'm always too cold—it's hard to find nice big coats; the ones I like are always too thin.

Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

RM: Hair maintenance and beauty essentials?

LD: I don't do much to my hair really, but I use dry shampoo a lot. I love it, the one from Klorane because it has no scent. You can't totally wash your hair everyday, you have to push it a few days. For makeup? I have my lipstick—it was really hard to find. I was trying to find a lipstick that was the natural color of lips so that it would be really subtle. I found this one from MAC, Brick-O-LA, and I think it's pretty close. This is the one for now.

Rodin Hand Cream from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

RM: Go-to scent or perfume?

LD: I don't wear perfume because I have this Rodin hand cream. It's my treat, it smells of jasmine, and I think it's enough—I don't like overwhelming perfume. I think that you shouldn't be able to detect when someone is wearing it. I like when my clothes smell of laundry—that's good enough for me.

Margaret Howell Key Holder from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

Above: "This is my Margaret Howell key holder. I love Margaret Howell but I can't wear the clothes because of the cut. I was happy to find something from them and it's a so nice because I hate keys—the sound of them—and I like hiding them this way. It's just such a beautiful object to have in your bag and hang on the wall when you're in."

Lavender Water from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

Above: "My favorite linen water: diluted lavender essential oil. I use it massively for cleaning because it's antiseptic and smells amazing. It's from the Drôme, I got it at the market and every time I go I get a new bottle."

Santa Maria Novella Pot Pourri from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

RM: Room fragrance?

LD: Clarisse brought it for me from Florence; it's Santa Maria Novella's Potpourri. The traditional ancient one from 1612 is amazing, it smells a bit like a church. I keep a bit in a vase I made, thrown on Cécile's wheel.

Raku Plate from Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

Above: "This plate is Raku made by a friend of Cécile's who is also in the south of France, in the Drôme. She made it for me and I think I've had my breakfast on the plate every day since. When you understand how hard it is to get that color variation, you really appreciate it."

Style Counsel with Lucile Demory in Paris, Remodelista

RM: Do you have a signature piece of jewelry?

LD: No jewelry. I don't like the feeling of the cold on my neck, wrist, and with rings. I feel like such a lady when I wear rings, it just doesn't work. To me, if you've got makeup on, you don't need jewelry, so I chose makeup instead.

RM: How does a French girl put herself together?

LD: Right now, in Paris, I know girls are wearing socks with their sandals and heels, their hair in high buns, and these Woody Allen-esque tortoise shell glasses. Oh, and their nails! French girls often have their hands and feet painted. At work [at A.P.C. shoots] a girl won't remove her shoes if her nails are not painted. It's something I discovered last year and since then, I gave in too.

RM: What do you travel with?

LD: I always take my Moleskine notebook and Astier de Villatte pencil. I do some sketches for my pottery when I'm on the train. I find it so much more pleasant to draw when you have nice tools to work with, they have an aura about them that inspires you.

RM: What was your most recent splurge?

LD: Actually it's the pottery studio at mom's house in Lille. I've been saving up for the kiln and the wheel so for me, that's the big investment for the next ten years.

RM: What's next on your wish list?

LD: This shirt that I'm wearing is my all time favorite, it's an A.P.C. shirt and I asked the stylist to re-do it for the next collection. He liked the idea so I'm looking forward to buying at least four of them next year.

See the other houses and people I visited while in Paris in our Travels with an Editor: Paris series and for more style advice, see the Style Counsel section of our archive.

Current Obsessions: Nautical Notes + David Stark Book Party

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We're happily slipping into summer with a nautical theme next week. In the meantime, here's what we're up to:

David Stark table setting

Above: Brooklynites can catch Remodelista NYC editor Francesca Connolly and party planner extraordinaire David Stark at Book Court (163 Court Street) celebrating the recently released David Stark: The Art of the Party ($28.39 at Amazon); Wednesday, June 12, at 7 pm. 

david stark table collaboration francesca connolly

Above: David and Francesca will create a literary-themed tablescape using locally sourced materials from Brooklyn (hint: vellum, a painter's drop cloth, and tissue paper are involved). For information, go to Book Court

French cuisse fish

Akio Nukaga : Remodelista

  • Wabi-sabi lovers: LA readers can meet master potter Akio Nukaga at Heath Los Angeles this Saturday, June 8th, from 5 to 8pm. His work will be on display until July 21st.
  • Brit designer Sir Paul Smith: a hoarder? He might want to take a note or two from Zero Waste Home.
  • Christine checked out the Calder After the War Exhibition at the Pace Gallery and is now looking forward to the annual Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy.

  Fish Soap: Remodelista

  • Alexa's nod to nautical week: the purchase of a fish soap from Merci.
  • "Men build boats because they can't have babies"—so says traditional boat maker Andy Stewart. Christine turned us on to this great vimeo of Stewart talking abut the craft and philosophy of wooden boat carpentry.

Vintage Andian Blanket: Remodelista

  • We're coveting this Vintage Andian Blanket from Spartan shop in Austin, perfect for throwing over a hammock. Looking for the latter? Check out Pop Sugar's Best Hammock roundup.
  • Ever gone to Anthropologie, seen something, and thought you could make it yourself? Check out 38 Anthropologie Hacks.
  • San Francisco's Zinc Details will be showcasing the work of local designers in their (now) annual SF Local Design Market. Meet the makers on June 13, from 6 to 8pm.

  rth at Arcosanti by One Trip Pass: Remodelista

  • Sarah's checking out the latest from RTH shop from their recent shoot at Arcosanti by One Trip Pass.
  • We've been enjoying the newly designed Canvas website. From now until June 18, you can enter to win a $1000 shopping spree.

Feeling Blue: Baths from the Remodelista Architect/Designer Directory

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Sailing into nautical week, we're reminded of how much we love serene marine blue baths. Here are ten from members of the Remodelista Architect/Designer Directory.

Blue Bath by Walker Workshop, Remodelista

Above: Azure glass tile in a bath by Walker Workshop in LA. See more from the firm in 10 Outdoor Pools from Members of the Remodelista Architect/Designer Directory. Photos by Nicholas Alan Cope.

Teal Blue Bathroom with Black and White Tile by SIMO Design, Remodelista

Above: A pitch-perfect combination of teal, black, and off-white from SIMO Design in LA. For more from SIMO, see The Designers Are In: Expert Tips from Remodeling Pros.

Blue Bath in Clipper Street Residence by Envelope A+D, Remodelista

Above: The owners of this bath by SF-based Envelope A+D wanted the room to evoke the feeling of skateboarding in an empty swimming pool. For a look at the whole house, see Back to Black.

Dark Blue Tiled Bath by Studio Garneau, Remodelista

Above: NYC-based Studio Garneau covered an entire bathroom in tiny dark blue tiles. For the whole project, see The Architect Is In: A Tiny Live/Work Loft Made Large.

Blue Bathrooms by Delson or Sherman Architects, Remodelista

Above: Two bathrooms in a large Chelsea loft by Delson or Sherman Architects both make use of cool blue. For more from the Brooklyn-based firm, see Architect Visit: Delson or Sherman East Harlem Brownstone.

Blue Bath by Uniform Design, Remodelista

Above: Uniform Design in NYC offers easy-to-implement bathroom designs, both readymade and custom. Here, a custom design for a Chelsea home. For more about the Uniform concept, see The Architect Is In: Affordable, Instant Bathrooms by Uniform Design.

Blue Bathroom with Heath Tile in Medium Plenty House, Remodelista

Above: Crystal Blue 2x9 field tile from Heath Ceramics in a master bath by Medium Plenty in Oakland. For more from the firm, see The Architect Is In: Medium Plenty in San Francisco. Photo by Melissa Kaseman

Blue Bath by SIMO Design, Remodelista

Above: Another take on blue, black, and white from SIMO Design in LA. 

Blue Bathroom by Murphy Burmham & Buttrick, Remodelista

Above: One of our favorite blue baths, in a Greenwich Village townhouse by architects Murphy Burnham & Buttrick. For more from the firm, see Office Visit: Murphy Burnham & Buttrick in New York.

Pale Blue Bath by J. Weiss Design, Remodelista

Above: A periwinkle bath with a tidy soap niche by J. Weiss Design in San Francisco. For more from the architect, see Steal This Look: J. Weiss Kitchen & Bar in SF

Can't get enough of aqua, navy, and ultramarine? Browse the blues in 45 Remodelista posts featuring Nautical Style.

Summer Storage: Jute Containers for Under 25 Dollars

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In need of extra storage for the summer? We just spotted these good-looking, compellingly priced jute bins from The Container Store. Perfect for storing swim gear and summer towels by the pool or for using indoors for coraling clutter. See below for pricing.

Black Jute basket

Above: Made from biodegradable raw jute fibers woven into rope and then stitched, the Small Jute Bin is 7 3/4 inches wide and 7 1/2 inches high ($14.99) and the Large Jute Bin is 11 1/2 inches wide and 10 1/4 inches high ($24).

If wicker is more your thing, check out these Storage Baskets.

 

A Hampton-Inspired Beach Club: Watson's Bay Hotel in Australia

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We have a thing for beach clubs: the Ace Swim Club and the Montauk Surf Lodge are two of our favorites, but if we were to travel Down Under we wouldn't mind a swim (or a drink) at Watson's Bay Beach Club.

Located just outside Sydney, Watson's Bay is a favorite getaway destination for Sydney dwellers. One of the latest lodging projects is the Watson's Bay Boutique Hotel and Beach Club owned by Arthur Laundry and Fraser Short. Last year, they renovated the space and turned it into a tropical play area where guests can frolic by the sea drinking umbrella-festooned cocktails. For more information, go to Watson's Beach Bar and Club.

Photographs via Vogue Living Australia Blog.

Hand Painted Directional Signs at Watson's Beach Club, Remodelista

Above: Wooden slats function as directional signs which help guests find their destination. The text is hand painted. 

Watson's Beach Bar, Remodelista  

Above: The bar area features a rounded wooden bar and a wall mural of green palm leaves. 

Writing On The Wall at Watson's Beach Club, Remodelista

Above: Playful writing on a white and blue painted brick wall. 

Colorful Bouys at Watson's Beach Club, Remodelista  

Above: Colorful buoys add a cheerful note.

Wooden Paddles Hang as Wall Decor at Watson's Beach Club, Remodelista  

Above: Nautical accents such as wooden paddels can be found throughout the space. 

Entrance at Watson's Beach Bar, Remodelista  

Above: The entrance to the Watson restaurant.

Are you traveling to Sydney this summer or simply daydreaming about far-flung places to visit? Either way, check out our Sydney City Guide for inspiring stops.

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