European Chic

Three stylish bathtubs

2012-01-26T06:42:00.011+01:00

Wouldn't it be great to have a a free standing bathtub? I like all three examples I posted here. In fact I cannot decide which style I like best. Not that a freestanding tub is a possibility in a small Paris flat.

All photos: House To Home

For successful living

2012-01-24T05:36:00.023+01:00

When I look for outstanding furniture design I turn south to Italy. Luckily, popular Jeans designer Diesel also designes furniture and lamps these days. Just like their jeans and accessories their stuff is urban sophisticated (think trendy Milano!) and really cool. I hope this is inspiration for D. who is moving into a loft next week. I particular like the sofa above and the camera lense lamps.

All photos: Diesel

Magazine storage idea

2012-01-22T11:11:00.000+01:00

Photo: VT Wonen

Good morning! I had share this great idea how to show (off) your favourite magazines. I may even try that myself. I always like to change my decor every once in a moon. Let's see, I would display Milk, Elle Deco, Living etc, and Marie Claire Maison. What about you?

Spanish minimalist home

2012-01-20T08:06:00.017+01:00

You'll find this house on the Catalan coast among the more typical Catalan houses. It was commissined by a photographer and designed by Tom Kundig. I like the very particular charm this house has with its rotating doors and sparse yet classic furnishing (including the awsome Hans J. Wegner Wishbone chairs!).

Photos: AD Magazine

Window, window

2012-01-18T12:13:00.009+01:00

Photo: Mikkel Vang Photographer

If you could choose the design of the windows in your home what windows do you prefer? Here is my dream window - I like the industrial yet feminine character of this window. Not exactly something you find in Paris very often but if I would find it in a salvage yard I would find a way of incorporating it.

Plum & charcoal

2012-01-17T11:01:00.012+01:00

Photo: Petra Bindel Photographer

Isn't plum and charcoal a deliciously cosy colour combination? For me it is very 'winter-y' (if this is a word in the English language?) Of course, having a big tile fireplace is not too bad either.

Bella Firenze!

2012-01-15T15:57:00.001+01:00

Greetings! I wished I was in Italy today so I browsed one of my favourite Italian shelter magazines, AT casa, for inspirations. This appartment in Florence really cought my eye becasue it is real, laid back and has a happy bobo vibe about it. The owner is a decorator and I like how effortless everything looks like it was 'just' thrown together.

All photos: AT casa

French touch

2012-01-13T05:25:00.001+01:00

Apparently, some called this house "à l’impériale", others more "à la Mansard" but in any case this house from the XVII and XVIIIe century has never been substantially changed, therefore preserving its ancient charm. There is nothing I do not adore in this house in the village of Bugnien.

Double doors really do it for me. Makes me want to wear majestic robes.

All photos: Marie Claire Maison France

Interiors from Belgium

2012-01-11T12:52:00.000+01:00

Photo: Pinterest

I found this beautiful composition of Belgian interiors. The colours are muted - perfect to see on a cold winter day. The bathroom sink nook is adorable - I want one.

European porch

2012-01-09T09:12:00.005+01:00

Photos: VTonen Netherlands

I need a spot of summer today, me thinks. I like this simple porch - so relaxing to hang out there. I cannot even guess where this porch is located. Lithuania? South of France? Sweden? What do you think?

Vibrant Victorian house

2012-01-07T13:50:00.000+01:00

India Knight's home is filled with delightful trinkets and pictures from all over the globe. The bright colours she uses give the house a very joyful feel.

Here is wishing everybody a great weekend! We are off to the canal St. Martin now.

All photos: Living etc UK

Small knitted delights

2012-01-05T14:48:00.000+01:00

Some small knitted decoration for your stuff to cosy up in. Although we had a fairly warm New Year's it is getting colder again in Paris and this makes me think of knitting for family, friends - and your house.

All photos: Schoener Wohnen

More ice hotels (i.e. places to see before they melt)

2012-01-03T10:46:00.001+01:00

Back to popular demand from you, dear Readers, more ice hotels! You can find last year's post on ice hotels here. I guess a hotel that is only built for a few months designers can really go wild and experiment. Aren't the room crazy beautiful? I still have not visited an ice hotel, have you? How was it?

All photos from various Pinterest sources (which I have been collecting over the last few months)

This was 2011

2011-12-31T11:20:00.000+01:00

Photo: Ditte Isager Photographer

Happy new year, folks! This was 2011. I hope it was a good one.

I am so grateful for the people I've met though blogging - you, dear Readers and fellow bloggers - and the things I've discovered. I blog purely for pleasure and your comments and emails always make me so happy. Thanks for visiting! I am content to be part of this community.

French Impressions VIII

2011-12-29T00:05:00.041+01:00

Hello, welcome to another edition of 'Impressions....', today from Paris. I'll give some explanations for the photos I chose.

Here is my favourite 'secret' passageway in the Marais. Do you recognise Place de Vosges (above) and the Hôtel de Sully (below)?

The other day we went to to the fleamarket Porte de Vanves and bought these two bistro chairs for 30 Euros. I must say that it is practical to travel with your own chairs on the metro - you always have a seat. Don't try this during rush hour, though.

I love the colourful shop fronts you can find in Paris. Here are two examples.

I absolutely love the windows in Notre Dame - the photo does no justice to the glowing colours.

The last photo shows the colourful syrop you can buy on the markets. They are all yummy which makes it hard to choose.

All photos: European Chic

Finnish living room

2011-12-27T00:44:00.019+01:00

Photo: Pinterest

Dear Readers, I hope you all had relaxing holidays. It is good to be back in blog-land showing you a great Finnish interior I found on Pinterest. I love the exposed brick walls and the mismatched chairs.

I can not believe that I've never showcased a Finnish home on European Chic. This will be rectified in the future. If you know great Finnish interiors let me know.

Vintage vision in Berlin

2011-12-23T05:01:00.002+01:00

Freunde von Freunde (FVF) has to be my favourite website, probably since they launched. It makes me want to move to Berlin just because the flats are so spacious over there. And now FVF has expanded - even to Paris. Yay! The featured flats are always so fresh, cool and, most importantly, unique.

In this flat I adore the fireplace and the pink walls. How gutsy! What do you like about this flat?

All photos: FreundevonFreunden

Portugese libary

2011-12-21T09:00:00.016+01:00

Photo: Sonnabend Gallery, New York

Who wants to study in Portugal? Me! Isn't the Biblioteca Geral da Universidade de Coimbra (photographed by famous photographer Candida Höfer) stunning! I would never look at my books being distracted by the ornamental beauty around me.

German Impressions IX

2011-12-19T08:10:00.001+01:00

I remeber how much you, dear readers enjoyed seeing photos of various European Christmas markets on this blog.

Last weekend I popped over to Nuremberg, Germany to visit my friend C. who recently moved to this charming medieval city in Bavaria. We enjoyed looking at the artisan stalls at the large outdoor Christmas market (especially the Glühwein and famous Lebkuchen!), eating Frankonian food and a tour of the castle.

All photos: European Chic

Norwegian kitchen design

2011-12-17T11:17:00.008+01:00

Photo: Maison Interior Norway

I was inspired by this Norwegian black and white kitchen which is cool and cozy at the same time. I love the shiny black door against the matte wall finish. What a neat effect. The black and white tiles are a classic for a kitchen or a hallway.

Artist pad in Paris

2011-12-15T09:33:00.028+01:00

I am leaning heavily towards French homes these days but this place was too good to pass. The window in the image above reminds me so much of my old flat. Doesn't this flat in St. Germain have great bones? The decoration is really quirky, I like that. There is no matchy-matchy feeling, yet everything works so well together. Of course, being an artist who draws large paintings helps.

All photos: cotemaison.fr

Silent night

2011-12-13T11:13:00.014+01:00

Photo: Pinterest

I do not know where this photo was taken but isn't it a perfect place to finish a winter night? Snow makes even a busy city like Paris quiet and peaceful. Let's see if we will have snow this year.

Winter wonderland

2011-12-11T15:41:00.000+01:00

Imagine celebrating Christmas in Nyköpings, Sweden. In the morning you have a hearty breakfast in the lovely dinign room. During the day you walk the dog in the crisp winter sun and at night you snuggle up on the white sofa admiring your Christmas tree. This house is the right setting for my current 'Sweden' fantasy.

All photos: Lantliv Magazine

Christmas decoration

2011-12-10T00:03:00.012+01:00

Photo: Julia Hoersch

An alternative way of decorating for the season. Marcel would aprove, I am sure.

Have a nice weekend, dear readers!

Marvelous snow castle near Paris

2011-12-07T05:52:00.039+01:00

Browsing the internet for weekend getaways near Paris I found this gem of a castle! Château de la Verrerie is less than one hour by train from Paris Gare du Montparnasse. I already see myelf relaxing here, don't you? I like how the decorators sneaked in a few 'modern' pieces to make the castle less traditional, for example with the Kartell lamp or the Indian commode.

All photos: Château de la Verrerie

A spot of white

2011-12-05T07:45:00.015+01:00

For the beginning of the week I present bright whites and plants from a certain Swedish furniture store.This space feels very homey and real. White spaces need different textures so that they do not look too clinical. And, as always, the white ceiling lamp from the aforementioned store is such a bargain and I have seen it all over blogland.

Photo: IKEA blog

European Chic goes to .... Kanataka & Kerala, India

2011-12-03T02:03:00.024+01:00

Finally, I had a moment to sort through my India photos of my recent trip and post a few. Everything is so beautiful that it is difficult not to overdo it and attempting to post 'all' photos. I was travelling in india during Diwali, a three day celebration. The food was amazing and I could have bought every single scarf and sari I saw. The patterns really do it for me.

Check out also the photos from my last India trip to Northern India!

P.S. On a personal note; my beloved dog - European Chic's muse - died.

The brand new metro line in Bangalore!

All photos: European Chic

Finally, it's December!

2011-12-01T14:06:00.003+01:00

Photo: Milk Magazine

I am happy that December has finally arrived and I can open my first door of my Adventskalender! Karl Lagerfeld and Chanel decorated the windows of Galleries Lafayette (a department store in Paris) this year. The Russian ballet dancer dolls above are one display in one of the windows. It is always exciting to see how the Christmas windows will be decorated.

Are the windows in the department stores in your country decorated for the Christmas season?

A Gustavian settee

2011-11-28T05:58:00.009+01:00

Photo: Veranda Magazine

The other day I saw a darling Gustavian settee in the fleamarket but I didn't have my camera with me to take a snapshot. So once I was home I started researching settees from Sweden and this one was one of those I really liked.

Florentine space

2011-11-25T20:33:00.017+01:00

Isn't this architecte studio in Florence, Italy, a dream? The owner custom-made the bookshelfs that leave the big space light and airy whilst the orange accents add some warmth. The stainless steel kitchen is fantastic. I think I have to move to Florence at one point and find a space like this one myself.

All photos: Marie Claire Magazine

Danish by design

2011-11-23T20:49:00.000+01:00

I am totally fascinated by the use of colour and texture in this Danish space. Shiny charcoal black tiles in the bathroom, a fluffy grey carpet in the living room, and butterfly wallpaper in the bedroom. Isn't the butterfly wallpaper great - fun and playful without being saccharine sweet.

Ah, I long to go to Copenhagen now and visit all the amazing interior shops.

All photos: Bolig magazine Denmark

Star glow

2011-11-20T21:35:00.000+01:00

Photo: Living at Home Magazine

I saw similar stars today which are so cosy. I want them in my bedroom. Has anyone seen them in different colours? I imagine that darkers hues make for a peaceful glow.

I hope everybody had a relaxing Sunday!

European style bar

2011-11-18T21:36:00.010+01:00

Photo: Schoener Wohnen

I thought I check in on a Friday night because I am thinking about how nice it would be to have a stylish bar like this one at home so one does not have to leave the cosy sofa to go into a cold winter night in order to find a bar. Yeah, life is tough...

The wallpaper is by Designers Guild by the way.

Mini flat in Milano

2011-11-16T21:17:00.000+01:00

Me thinks that we haven't done any virtual travelling to Italy for a while. Here is a small - 60m2 - space in Milano which feels cosy without being cluttered. I like how simple and real the space feels. The attic bedroom in this flat is very cosy.

All photos: AT Casa Italia

Happy Chic

2011-11-13T07:39:00.012+01:00

Looking at this flat makes me happy on Monday morning! Fantastic colour accents throughout. I love the different colours of the chairs because they inject happiness in the white decor. It is happy chic!

Have a great start into the week!

All photos: Living etc

Ochre lamps

2011-11-12T03:47:00.019+01:00

Browsing my favourite design sites I came across this series of gorgeous lamps by Ochre London! The right lights are ever so important in winter when it's getting dark early.

On Friday I was in the mood for pink but today I am more into subdued colours so these product shots really apealed to me.

All photos: Ditte Isager Photography

Hot pink room

2011-11-10T08:01:00.018+01:00

Photo: Lo Bjurulf

As the days are getting dark and cold in my corner of the world I need an injection of hot pink in my life! Painting a whole room pink including the ceiling is daring but it works here (in my humble opinion), partly because the 'bones' of the room with its high ceilings and period details is amazing.

Only two days to go until the weekend, dear readers!

Swedish coastal home

2011-11-08T06:05:00.021+01:00

A quirky decorator's home at the Southern Swedish coast. I like the mix of styles and price points. I would not mind at all having a similar view from my window or the desk with the tall desk lamp. What about you?

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

With Love from Paris!

2011-11-06T06:58:00.001+01:00

All photos: Pinterest

Our Eiffel tower has perhaps been somewhat overexposed but when I found these two lovely images on Pinterest I could not resist. So poetic - even for a Paris native like yours truly.

Simply Scandinavian

2011-11-04T05:24:00.002+01:00

There is something about the simplicity of Scandinavian design that makes me go back to it again and again. Look at this airy and light filled flat in Østerbro, Denmark. I like the way the art work is displayed on the walls and the constrast between the cosy textiles and the black and white modern furniture.

I've been wondering if Scandinavian design also works outside Scandinavia, say in a Southern Eurropean country such as Portugal. What do you think?

All Photos: Bolig Magazine Denmark

Floral dreams

2011-11-02T06:40:00.001+01:00

I've been looking at bed linen and I took a fancy to the new collection from Urban Outfitters for its bold colours and floral patterns. It can transform a bedroom instantly. Which one do you like best? Or do you believe that bed linen should be white?

All photos: Urban Outfitters

Santo Stefano di Sessanio

2011-10-30T02:00:00.000+02:00

A feat for the eyes from my favourite hotel in the world! The Sextantio Albergo Diffuso near Rome. You won't find a more authentic small Italian village living experience as the hotel consists of numerous superbly renvated houses in a small midieval village in the mountains of one of the largest Italian national parcs with magnificient views. Each house is completely different. I was lucky enough to stay in the suite - which meant that we had a whole house for ourselves. Sweet! Breakfast is served in a wonderful country kitchen and includes only locally produced foods.

All photos: Hotel Sextantio, Abruzzo

Warsaw gem

2011-10-27T04:11:00.012+02:00

I've been wanting to feature more design from Central and Eastern Europe and I kept thinking again and again about this amazing 80-year old former schoolhouse which I saw on Design Sponge. The owners found the cottage in the countryside of Poland, and moved it (!) to Warsaw where they restored it. The cottage feels very real, especially the fact that the staircase is too short so that they had to buy a stool as a first step. The black and white scheme fels actually cosy here, don't you think?

All photos: Design Sponge

Dutch interiors

2011-10-25T09:10:00.018+02:00

All photos: 101 Woonnideeen The Netherlands

A couple of relaxed Dutch interiors I fancied today.

I hope you are all well, dear readers!

Colour punch!

2011-10-23T04:29:00.031+02:00

There are lots of things I like about this welcoming house in Southern Sweden. The Norwegian cast iron stove is a real focal point, the well placed punches of bright colours liven up the space and the happy mix of retro and fleamarket furnitures are cosy without being too sweet.

Lately, I've seen a couple of spaces with bright yellow doors. Is this an emerging trend? Would you paint your front door yellow?

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

White and pale blue

2011-10-21T05:07:00.000+02:00

All photos: Living at Home Magazine

It was time for another colour post and, naturally, at this time of year I gravitate towards summer and spring colours... I am kidding. I do find the combination of white and pale blue works well in winter for those of us who do not live in a warm climate. It it calm and soothing yet fresh and clean.

Urban living in Berlin

2011-10-19T04:41:00.000+02:00

Here is a modern pad that is not cold and sterile. You can't be more 'cool' and urban that living in this 1353 squaremeters atelier/flat in Berlin-Mitte. I like the mid-century classic furniture and the polished concrete floors. Hey, I want to be invited to a party on the roof terrace overlooking the city.

All photos: AT Casa Italia

Italian Impressions VIII

2011-10-17T06:35:00.013+02:00

This week is Italy week here at European Chic! More photos from Italy. Campli is a small community in the mountains which is famous for its ceramics. I like the traditional patterns very much and think that they work well even in modern interiors. The ceramics museum is sadly still closed due to the damages caused by the earthquake in April 2009.

All photos: European Chic

Homage to Arne's ant chair

2011-10-15T06:06:00.036+02:00

I (heart) danish designer Arne Jacobsen's classic Ant chairs from Fritz Hansen. They look good in every colour and in a wide range of different interiors. Actually, there is absolutely nothing designed by Jacobsen that I do not like.

All photos: Fritz Hansen

17th century Tuscan villa

2011-10-13T05:18:00.000+02:00

Not too shabby, eh? I would not mind driving through an ancient olive grove myself to arrive at my 'weekend' house. Have you noticed the originally painted ceilings? Pairing this with a Knoll table as in the room below is quite daring. I also love the fire place in the rustic kitchen and the porch, called limonaia, traditionally used to store potted lemon trees in winter. Ah, I want some lemon trees here in my flat in Paris...

All photos: Architectural Digest

Autumn has arrived in Paris

2011-10-11T09:44:00.015+02:00

Photo: Pinterest

This year I decided to embrace every season! So here is to rain! Incidentally a great season to read books. What are you reading, dear readers? I've started on Herta Müller, winner of the 2009 Nobel prize.

Mix & match

2011-10-09T09:14:00.000+02:00

It is raining in Paris today so perused the Sunday paper and found this charming British home of an antique dealer. I like a lot of things about it: the simple palette, the distressed furniture, the classical antiques (Roman column, anyone?) and the personal touches.

Have a lovely Sunday, dear readers (with hopefully more sunshine) in your part of the world!

All photos: The Guardian

European Chic goes to .... Beijing, China

2011-10-07T04:47:00.027+02:00

It is good to be back in Paris but my trip to China was amazing. I loved the food, the people, the architecture, the ancient history, well, everything. Here are a couple of imrepssions from the forbidden city, the great wall, the buddha temple, etc.

The last photo is rather strange, isn't it? It was the sign on my hotel door.

All photos: European Chic

Maison à Marseille

2011-10-05T07:23:00.016+02:00

A Morroccon inspired home in Marseille, France's port city. The house exhibits a happy mix of ethnic and flea market objects against a white background. I think you can tell that a jewellery designer lives here who is inspired by her many travels.

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

Beautiful on the inside

2011-10-03T05:59:00.017+02:00

My favourite topic: small spaces! This flat in Stockholm, Sweden is 37 squaremeters big and looks at least twice as big. I like the relaxed vibes and the cosyness of the space without it feeling crowded or cluttered.

All photos: SkonaHem

Delicious plum

2011-10-01T09:18:00.001+02:00

Photo: www.jori.com

I am getting into the colour plum. It is a cosy yet glamorous colour which works with lits of other colours. Are you decorating your home with plum?

Italian Impressions VII

2011-09-29T08:30:00.000+02:00

Now that I've returned from China realized in my jet lagged haze that I never posted any snapshots from Italy, where I spent my summer. Summer days lazing on the beach or - even better - on the sailing boat are starting to fade in my memory. We visited an impressive fortress built in 1564 by the Spaniards which covers no less than 25000 squaremeters.

This is the oldest church in the region built in the 1100s on a site of an ancient Roman church. It is believed that there are Roman villas in the vicinity - someone just has to excavate them. Any volunteers?

The entrance to the city nesteled against the fortress.

The fortress and village in the distance

The freshwater tank is caved in the rocks.

The kitchen with two ovens.

They had a modern art exhibit on when we visited. I liked the contrast between the ancient buildings and the modern art installations.

The cat wanted to leave the house but was blocked by the sleeping dog.

All photos: European Chic

Fleamarket style

2011-09-27T05:15:00.000+02:00

The lovely home of a Belgian couple devoted to fleamarketing. I especially like the mirror in the second image, the bust, and small sofa and all doors in this house.

Welcome also to the new European Chic followers. Only a few more to go to reach the magical number of 100! And as always your comments are very much appreciated. They make blogging ever so much more fun!

All photos: Côté Ouest Magazine

A tale of two cities

2011-09-24T07:17:00.006+02:00

I had a new follower join my blog and when I went to her blog I saw some cool stuff which led me back to the original source, parisvsnyc. These duels are so funny and they are all true, especially the one about not being able to get a taxi on a Saturday night.

British touch

2011-09-22T07:46:00.004+02:00

I like the clever use of yellow as an accent colour in this London house. My favourite room is probably the guest room with the French bed, flower wall paper and cool lamp and my favourite pieces of furniture is the Orla Kiely chair in the living room and the pink 1930s bench.

All photos. Living etc UK

Creative living

2011-09-20T04:40:00.000+02:00

Two artists + one flat = one boho chic place beyond believe! I feel right at home here in this flat in Southern France (incidentally near here). Every single chair in this abode is amazing and the walls with their rough texture are charming.

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

Blue salon

2011-09-18T04:18:00.001+02:00

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

A cute salon in a Parisian flat. I love this shade of blue which reminds me of Farrow & Ball's 'Cook's Blue'. It is a very happy colour. How do you feel about blue? I always think one has to be careful that it doesn't make the interior too cold. It really worked in this flat.

China is fantastic - I think I have to blog about it even if it is not exactly Europe.

Greek life

2011-09-15T04:01:00.000+02:00

Ah, Mykonos, a place that comes pretty close to paradise on earth. The white washed house, the pool, the view of the azur blue sea... The interior is simple but not boring because designer pieces (especialy mid-century chairs) are mixed with more traditional handmade furniture. I like the 'built in' shower- it looks very organic. Pretty handy to have your own chapel, too, non? (See last photo). The owners got married there. How lovely!

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

European still life

2011-09-13T08:18:00.000+02:00

Photo: Marie Claire Italia

I like this vignette very much. It evokes the old flemish masters, doesn't it?

On different note; I saw that a remake has been made of one of my all time favourite French movies La guerre de Bouton. Why?

French Impressions VII

2011-09-11T06:35:00.054+02:00

Here are a 'couple' of photos from my trip to Les Cevennes near Montpellier this summer. The area is known for rosé wine, sweet onions (made into a sort of chutney), its natural beauty, caves and hiking with donkeys.

I took a photo of one of the many hiking groups we saw. They all seemed to have, ahem, difficulty getting the donkey to walk.

Les grottes des demoiselles, which we visited, was the largest cave I have ever been to. Amazing!

There are supposed to be a lot of sheep - I just saw absolutely zero sheep except the bronze shepard statue.

Our house was on top of a hill overlooking the mountains and it was so remote that there was not even mobile phone access. The grey cat came to our house twice a day and demanded to be fed. I bet it did rounds at all the houses in the neighbourhood! We met the dog while hiking in a national park and he really enjoyed bathing in the tiny waterhole.
The danger sign below is self-explanatory, right?

All photos: European Chic

Converted mirror factory

2011-09-09T01:55:00.014+02:00

There is an Alice in Wonderland quality to it when you can say that you live in a former mirror factory, isn't there? Today this charming house is a Bed & Breakfast in Brussels, Belgium.

I am smitten by the large collection of earthware and glasses. It is never too late to get started I suppose. What do you like about this house?

The address:

Chambre en ville, 19, rue de Londres, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

The remains of the day

2011-09-07T10:28:00.001+02:00

Photo: House to Home

I can see Emma Thompson or Anthony Hopkins opening the door any time! The Merchant Ivory film 'The Remains of the Day' (1993) is great. If you haven't watched it yet rent it as soon as you can.

For me this beautiful front garden with trellis is sooo quintessential English countryside.

A château in Provence

2011-09-05T08:44:00.001+02:00

I have not been this excited about a European Chic blog post in a long while! Seriously, labelling this château a 'house tour' is the understatement of the year. May I present Château de Moissac in Moissac - Bellevue (Provence): It was built at the beginning of the XVIIème century and renovated in 2008. The staircases and fireplaces alone already make me weak in the knees. I quite fancy celebrating here with you, dear readers.

All photos: Château de Moissac/ photographs by Henri Del Olmo; Bernard Touillon and Patrick Van Robaeys

La rentrée

2011-09-04T02:41:00.001+02:00

Photo: VTWonen Netherlands

I saw very similar baskets in the South of France this summer. I like how they were dipped in colour.

Paris is filling up again. It is so nice to be back and seeing everybody after the holidays again. It is called La rentrée!

The cat kindergarten

2011-09-02T09:08:00.000+02:00

I think I found the coolest kindergarten ever! The cat-shaped kindergarten is located in Baden-Wuerttemberg and designed by Tomi Ungerer.

The cat reminds me of the egyptian sphinx. I give extra points for the fact that the cat's tail is a slide (3rd image). How can I get myself into this kindergarten? Wouldn't it be cool to play in the paws or peek out the eye?

All photos: Milk France

German Impressions VIII

2011-08-31T07:13:00.056+02:00

Welcome to what is probably the longest Impressions... post ever! The overall theme was meant to be water, however, I did sneak in a couplephotos of interior shops I discovered.

First, a couple photos of the Hamburg port, the 2nd largest port in Europe. We took a boat trip and I saw the former 'retirement' homes of captains along the Elbe and the city beach.

Below one of the cool new buildings that form part of the new Hafen City. I like the organic shape of the building.

Here are a couple interior design stores I checked out.

The next two photos below show a shop that is straight out of a fairy tale. The former factory is crammed with the most beautiful props. Apparently, their clientel are mainly prop stylists.

Does anybody happen to know the name óf this shop?

Nice contrast between the elegant building and the run down theatre. Everybody bikes in Germany.

One of the many beautiful city parks with an observatory and a lake where you can swim. They were filming at the lake when we went there.

This is random but I found this 'skeleton house' interesting.

And then we went to the beach (45 min from Hamburg). We were lucky because they were pretty empty. We rented one of these cute things below - a Strandkorb. Do I now want to have my own Strandkorb, too? Yes, I do.

The dunes protect from the floods.

All photos: European Chic

So, I hope you enjoyed this trip!

Blissful Italian living

2011-08-29T01:08:00.000+02:00

Did I mention that I like converted monastries and churches*? They give so much design freedom (plus a couple design challenges). Here is a beautifully converted monastry in Liguria, Italy, with a view to Corsica and the montains of Portofino in the distance. What a bliss to live here!

Imagine you wake up to this view everyday! And the garden is georgeous! I've spotted not one but several perfect breakfast places.

*Check out this place, and this one.

All photos: AT Casa Italia

Simple flower arangements

2011-08-26T02:37:00.000+02:00

These simple flower arrangements make me happy. Enough said.

All photos: Living at Home Magazine

Icelandic Impressions I

2011-08-24T06:01:00.000+02:00

My friends H. and F. are always game for unusual trips. This summer they cycled around Iceland for three weeks. I've begged them to share some photos with you, dear readers. The Iclandic landscape is fascinating, isn't it? I think it can be very inspirational for someone keen on decorating and design.

Natural & pure white

2011-08-22T01:00:00.000+02:00

Today I heart natural and pure white with a lot of texture and black accents.This space feels so summery and relaxed. By the way the sofa in the third image can be found at Merci Paris.

Have a lovely summer day, dear readers!

All photos: Homelife Magazine

Anthropologie style

2011-08-19T10:50:00.097+02:00

Today the delectable Eileen R. of easelart from Toronto, Canada is guest blogging about the Anthropologie style in North America. Eileen is a careful European Chic reader and figured how much I like Anthropologie (even if the closest one for me living in Paris is in London).

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Since we saw the Anthropologie store in London here I thought, as a guest, I might show one in my hometown, Toronto, Canada. I think Anthropologie has hit on a style that’s quite adaptable for many places both European and North American. They always give me loads of ideas and not just about fashion. I don’t mean to single out a particular store and be an ad for them but Anthropologie are good at creating a certain look.

I keep meaning to buy some of their letters for my home office.

    It looks a bit like an antiques store.

I thought instead of looking at the clothes, I would look at how things are displayed and also the new line of furniture. I bet you can’t wait to get some of this in the rest of Europe. Or maybe it’s something you see more readily elsewhere in other shops and at markets and can wait. In North America where new is usually more prized over the old, it’s nice to see vintage items or furniture inspired by vintage pieces.

An old cupboard with its doors off is used for another display.

There are even live plants used for displays.

While waiting for a friend trying on clothes I noticed that the bench in the fitting room has fabric around it. This must have been dipped in glued and hand molded to create these folds. I also love the pillows. I’m in the process of collecting bright fabric to make my own pillows for a revamp of my living room. All of the above photos were taken using instagram on my iPhone.

Bench for waiting in the fitting room

Owls seem to be 'in'.

I really think I could move right into the store. Would they mind? It always smells heavenly. I’m a sucker and even bought their candles in the hope of having a bit of Anthropologie at home.

I want this lamp. Made in France

Maybe with less pillows

I fell for this purple sofa

All photos: easelart/Eileen R.

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Thanks to Eileen from easelart for blogging today. This marks the end of this summer's guest posts. Next time it will be me again (more tanned).

19th century dining table style!

2011-08-16T04:36:00.005+02:00

Today the wonderful Richard Rabel from New York city, USA will be guest blogging while I am outside exploring.

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I’m thrilled to be a guest blogger for European Chic! It’s posts on chic contemporary, mostly European interiors have always been insightful and so when I was asked to write a guest posting on art and design (my blog focuses on these as well as decor), how could I refuse! Anna is the best.*

France has always been known for its chic and refined taste in art and design but back in the 19th Century, it had no other rivals. At the turn of the 19th Century, even while most of Europe was at war with Napoleon's France, the aristocracy of Europe looked to Paris to define what was chic in dress, manners, and of course, dining.

French aristo dining tables of the Napoleonic era literally dripped with gold and silver. Tureens, entree dishes, centerpieces, candelabra, dinner plates and flatware all glittered in the candle light creating a magnificent back drop for the delicious excesses of the time. The very best of art and design of the period incorporated classical forms and these reflected the good taste and worldliness of the owners. Silversmiths from London to Vienna to St. Petersburg took up the mantel of neo-classicism, copying everything their clients saw in the palaces of France.

The dinner service above is a perfect example. Odiot, silversmiths to Napoleon (and still producing today!), created a service for Count Nikolai Demidoff, a Russian nobleman whose love of Paris led him to almost abandon his native Russia. The centerpiece of this service is the figural tureen above that stands two feet tall (60 cm.) and weighs 34 lbs. (15.5 kilos) of solid silver. The entire service had over 60 pieces, so imagine how impressive it would have been to have dinner at the Demidoffs!

With the passing of time and the reversal of fortunes, the service was broken up and sold as single pieces, each standing as individual testaments to chic 19th century France.

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Thank you very much to Richard for his guest post - I learned new things today. Please share your comments below.

*I did not ask for this lovely compliment (but am sure glad to hear it - flattery gets you anywhere with me!).

What is 'French style' for Americans?

2011-08-13T02:44:00.007+02:00

Today's guest blogger is the delightful Meghan Carter from New Hampshire, USA. You already met her here. She took on the challenge to look into what French style means for Americans.

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[source: http://theparisapartment.blogspot.com]

There are a number of items American's associate with French style. Grain sack pillows. Bistro chairs. The fleur-de-lis. The Louis XVI chair.

But to sum up the American view of French style in items alone would be far wrong. For most Americans see French style as much more than just a chair or a pillow. They see it as the epitome of chic. The enduring, fine, never-fails style. Like a black and white stripe shirt or Chanel purse.

Now whether that's what French style truly is, I don't know. My introduction to France lasted for just a weekend and consisted of only the usual stops. The Louvre. The Eiffel Tower. Versailles. Street vendors who fool you into buying a $2 painting for $35.

But what I can tell you is, please don't burst our bubble. If those lovingly-worn farmhouses in Provence and impossibly chic Parisian apartments are simply daydreams, let us dream on. For those French fantasies represent the one thing all overworked Americans secretly want: to live as you do with 'joie de vivre'.

[source: http://www.degiuliokitchens.com/]

[source: http://marcusdesigninc.blogspot.com/2011/06/new-traditional-island.html]

Of all the rooms in a home, the kitchen is the one I most associate with the French. Perhaps because to most Americans, the French are seen as the masters of cuisine thanks to Le Cordon Bleu, Julia Child, Jacques Pepin, Le Creuset and La Cornue. So food and France have become almost one in our minds, and there are two types of kitchens where we picture decadent food being made. The first is the Parisian kitchen, decked out in touches of metal and black, full of the creme de la creme of cooking equipment and brimming with fresh baked pastries, produce and wine.

[source: http://www.myhomeideas.com/]

[source: http://www.greigedesign.blogspot.com]

[source foodandwine.com]

The second is what we'd picture in a charming French farmhouse found in Provence, with worn stone floors, a large limestone hood and a big French farmhouse table in the center. Outside thereÕs a casual dining table where friends and family gather for long, luxurious lunches spent enjoying wine, ratatouille and the spectacular view of nearby vineyards and lavender fields.

[source: housebeautiful.com]

[source: http://theparisapartment.blogspot.com/]

In the city, we picture intricate cast iron railings, over-the-top moldings, touches of black and red and of course marble.

[source: http://www.greigedesign.blogspot.com]

[source; cotedetexas.blogspot.com]

[source: cotedetaxas.blogspot.com]

In the country, we imagine stone, stone and more stone mixed with sparse, aged furniture.

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Thanks to the lovely Meghan for guest blogging while I am on holidays. Please make sure to leave your thoughts in the comment section.

Colourful staircase

2011-08-11T09:56:00.002+02:00

This colourful staircase was installed at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London by artist Stuart Aygarth. I am partial to stripes!

Has anyone seen the staircase for real in the V&A?

So, this week I have some wonderful guests who will guest blog for you here at European Chic. I promised them that you are the best readers a blogger could ask for. (You are!)
Enjoy and make sure to encourage/thank them for their kind efforts by leaving a comment. Thank you!

Photo: House Beautiful

Danish hippie style

2011-08-08T04:38:00.000+02:00

You'll find this relaxed hippie heaven north of the Danish capital Kopenhagen. Colour is used very intelligently here, enough to make the house feel bright and happy but not so much that you feel like you live in a crayon box. The mix of different patterns and styles looks effortless. I dig the use of turquoise and blue- my new obsession.

All photos: Bolig Magazine Denmark

Animal instinct

2011-08-06T08:44:00.003+02:00

Photo: http://www.nonsansraison.com/

I love the sophisticated colour combination of a a dark green and and dark grey. Very cosy. The chicken plates make me laugh! They are totally unexpected in this traditional decor.

The plates can still be used for eating as they are only attached with magnets which is a cool idea.

Also, check out this adorable French short film (in the style of Tati) I found on the blog of a brand new European Chic follower from San Francisco. Remember, I am really into short films.

Polish Impressions I

2011-08-04T01:48:00.054+02:00

Hello! I am back from my trip to Warsaw. Anne graciously interviewed me for her Boarding Pass column a couple days ago (Thank you, Anne!) and promised that I would share some photos from my trip to Poland toute de suite.

I had a lovely time in Poland, but the weather was horrible. I had about a total of 10 minutes to take a couple of snapshots. My hotel room was on the 34th floor and the only thing I saw was white clouds, no view whatsoever. Luckily, I have been to Poland before when it was sunny and know that the photos in this post really do not justice to the city. I wished I could have included some photos of the old town and the surrounding countryside.

We had a delicious dinner at the Red Pig restaurant (est. 1909) of which I photographed a detail below. I heart pierogi, a typical Polish dish.

[Dear Polish readers, can anyone kindly explain to me what it says on the Winnie the Pooh sign I stumbled upon (see last photo below).]

All photos: European Chic

Le château d’Outrelaise

2011-08-02T02:05:00.020+02:00

The staircase sold me to this house. I so want to slide down these bannisters. The château d’Outrelaise in Normandie is colourful yet very understated. Its decor is modern - if you consider that Outrelaise was build in the 1600s. It is often used for filming or location shoots. If anybody recognises something familiar from a film or magazine editorial let me know as I am curious.

All photos: Marie Claire Maison

Elegantly white

2011-07-30T01:06:00.001+02:00

Photo: Agent Bauer/Stylist: Hans Blomquist

Original moldings, high ceilings, chevron wooden floórs, a large mirror, and a beautifully ornamented fireplace. - what more can one possibly want from an interior?

Thanks for stopping by, dear reader, I appreciate your visit(s). You are the best readers any blogger could ask for.

British Impressions III

2011-07-28T02:37:00.031+02:00

More snapshots of some of the places I shopped in London. You probably recognise Anthropologie and Liberty (I had to go as per my friend's request). Sadly, I left Liberty without one of the lovely scarfs. One can never have too many scarves, right? There is always next time as London is a mere 2h20min away from Paris.

I loved the beautiful flower shop in the 4th photo. And the staff were so friendly. The interior design was gorgeous and the smell simply devine.

I took this last photo (below) purely for the fun slogan:

'Don't follow fashion, buy something already out of date'.

All photos: European Chic