From strolling through fabric-lined streets to discovering the latest trends from the world’s top luxury brands, her week was filled with inspiration at every turn. But beyond the showrooms and exhibits, Paris itself became part of the experience—charming cafés, historic architecture, and hidden design gems that made this trip one for the books. Ready for a peek inside Lisa’s design-filled Paris itinerary? Let’s dive in!
Lisa’s Paris Design Adventure: All the Details
For this stylish getaway, home base was a luxury Airbnb nestled in the heart of a Passage near Les Grands Boulevards. “I shared this apartment with two friends, and it was in the perfect location—easy to get around, and we felt right in the center of everything.”
Paris Design Days 1 & 2: Déco Off—A Textile Wonderland
Paris Déco Off is like Fashion Week for interior designers—except instead of haute couture gowns, it’s all about sumptuous fabrics, jaw-dropping wallpapers, and impeccably crafted furniture. Lisa, a longtime fan of the event, was in her element.
“When I was younger, I vowed to one day go to Maison&Objet. It’s the event, the pinnacle of design. When I finally made it in 2018, it felt like a career milestone,” she shared. Déco Off, an offshoot of Maison&Objet, brings together independent and large brands and makers from across the globe.
“I saw a marble company from Atlanta that does these insane, fully encased marble islands. There were furniture designers from Sweden. And I remember in 2018, I discovered a British interiors company called House of Hackney. I instantly fell in love with them, and now they’re a household name.”
Paris Design Trends: What’s In?
Paris is the epicenter of style, so naturally, it sets the tone for the latest trends in interior design. Here’s what caught Lisa’s eye:
Warm, earthy tones are in! Rust, terracotta, and skin tones are making waves. “People are paying more attention to colors that make them feel good,” Lisa observed.
Jewel tones are still having a moment. Deep greens—everything from moss to peacock—were everywhere.
Unexpected color combos. “I saw this pairing of citron and rusty red that was just electrifying. It created this dynamic contrast that was both fresh and timeless.”
Paris Design Day 3: Flea Market Treasures
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the legendary flea markets, and Lisa made her way to Paul Bert Serpette with her friend, Michelle Gage, a fabulous designer in Philadelphia.
“My friend was sourcing for clients, but since none of my projects were in the accessory phase yet, I went purely to soak it all in. Everything I see goes into my ‘inspiration bank.’ I might not need a particular artist or lighting designer today, but a few years down the road, the perfect project will come along, and—bam!—I know exactly where to find them.”
Paris Design Days 4 & 5: Letting Inspiration Lead
Monday was supposed to be a trip to Maison & Objet, but a scheduling mix-up turned into an unexpected opportunity: a leisurely day of exploration.
“We wandered, shopped, and got inspired. I love visiting different hotel bars, having a cocktail, and taking in the design. In Paris, everything has a unique identity. No two brasseries look alike. Whether it’s a historic terrace with intricate millwork or a modern, swanky spot with glam touches, every space tells its own story. I love letting my curiosity lead the way—seeing a doorway or a window that catches my eye and saying, ‘Let’s pop in and see what’s inside.’ That’s how I love to travel.”
Lisa’s Must-Visit Parisian Restaurants
Design inspiration works up an appetite! Here are Lisa’s favorite culinary stops:
Tigermilk- A fantastic Mexican restaurant in Sentier
Rosetta 9– An incredible Italian eatery so exclusive it doesn’t even have a website or reservations
Chez Fernand Christine– A classic French restaurant in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Camille – A charming brasserie where Lisa tried escargot for the first time, located near vintage clothing shops
A Creative Pilgrimage: The Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Lisa was blown away by the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech, so visiting the Paris museum was a must.
“It was stunning—the exhibit was inspiring, and the floral designs were breathtaking. The best part? Walking into his actual studio! I didn’t even realize it was there, so stumbling upon it felt like stepping into a creative sanctuary.”
Lisa’s fourth trip to Paris certainly won’t be her last.
“The French share my love of antiques and vintage. The flea markets here are unlike anything else—huge, overflowing with character. You could spend days wandering and still not see everything. The French don’t just buy new, mass-produced pieces; they embrace history, uniqueness, and craftsmanship. That’s the beauty of working with a designer—finding those rare, meaningful pieces that tell a story.”
FAQs: The 411 on Paris Design
1. What is Paris design?
Paris design is all about effortless elegance with a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Think grand moldings, herringbone floors, and vintage finds paired with sleek contemporary pieces. It’s a carefully curated balance—nothing looks overly planned, yet every detail feels intentional. Parisian interiors embrace neutral palettes with pops of color, luxurious textiles like velvet and linen, and a touch of the eclectic, like an ornate mirror or a statement chandelier. The result? A space that feels timeless, chic, and undeniably French.
2. Is Paris Design Week free?
Paris Design Week offers a mix of free and ticketed events. Many showrooms, exhibitions, and installations throughout the city are open to the public at no cost, making it a dream for design lovers who want to soak in inspiration without breaking the bank. However, some exclusive events, trade shows like Maison&Objet, and private design talks require registration or an entry fee. If you're planning to go, it’s best to check the official Paris Design Week website for details on pricing and access.
3. What is the typical cost for an interior designer?
Interior design professionals come in all shapes and sizes, from decorators to full-service design gurus. If you're eyeing a full-service interior design team in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, design fees on average range from $200-$300 per hour, which doesn’t include furniture or decor.
Want a touch of Paris design in your home? If you’re dreaming of a space filled with custom details, rich textures, and one-of-a-kind finds, let’s chat. Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll help bring timeless Parisian elegance to your home. For more design inspiration, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter!
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