The Paris Edit
Design Inspiration for Interior Designers
Travel is often a treasure trove of inspiration, and my recent trip to Paris in January for Maison + Objet and the Créateurs Design Awards was no exception. As an interior designer, I know Paris is always a feast for the senses. This visit left me brimming with project ideas, thanks to the stunning design I experienced at every turn. From boutique hotels to innovative showrooms and even a few unexpected finds, this week-long whirlwind was nothing short of transformational.
If you’re an interior designer or simply passionate about elevating your spaces, here’s a glimpse into the spaces, materials, and artistry that caught my eye.
Boutique Hotel Design Inspiration
Château Voltaire
Tucked away in the heart of Paris, Château Voltaire is a masterclass in understated luxury. Every detail of this boutique hotel is carefully considered, from the minimalist plaster lighting to the charming hardware that feels handmade rather than mass-produced. It serves as a lesson in materiality and restraint, much like a great interior project.
The curated furnishings throughout the space and personal touches like handwritten notes on beautiful stationery created an enveloping sense of warmth and thoughtfulness. Anyone designing boutique accommodation or even a home with a hotel-like feel could draw so much from this space. Importantly, Château Voltaire reminded me that impeccable hospitality lies not in excess but in intentionality.
Restaurant Design Inspiration
Loulou Paris
Situated opposite the manicured gardens of the Louvre, Loulou is a restaurant where the design takes centre stage. While the menu was delightful, it’s the eclectic furnishings and bold sense of style that stayed with me. Details such as the interplay of textures and the curated art pieces sparked ideas about how dining spaces can bring people together not just with food, but with atmosphere.
This is a space to observe how fabric selection, statement lighting, and a harmonious colour palette can transform a functional room into something extraordinary. Whether designing a client’s dining area or a hospitality venue, Loulou is a reminder of how design elements can set the stage for unforgettable moments.
The Magic of Parisian Showrooms
Nancy Gonzales Showroom
I was struck by the imaginative use of materials in this petite showroom. Each surface felt like a canvas for innovation, from burl-like wall coverings to hand-painted wall decor. Viewing these materials in person, rather than on a screen, gives such a profound appreciation for their depth, texture, and colour variation.
One standout detail was the clever use of timber tiles, a contemporary and timeless finish. This showroom reinforced the importance of craftsmanship and material quality in achieving tactile and visually arresting designs. This space is an absolute must-visit if you’re considering bold, artisanal finishes for a project.
Pierre Yovanovitch Mobilier
I’ve long admired Pierre Yovanovitch’s work, so revisiting his Mobilier showroom was a high point of my trip. Seeing his designs up close revealed an extreme sensitivity to scale, form, and finish. It’s one thing to see a beautifully photographed piece of furniture, but quite another to experience its presence in a space.
The showroom featured unique materials, such as richly textured woods and unexpected upholstery choices, all working together seamlessly. Yovanovitch’s work reminds me of how bespoke furniture elevates an interior, making it feel both personal and special. I’ll carry his approach to timeless, functional design in my projects.
Shopping Finds to Inspire
Paris is a city made for walking, and every step offers a new discovery if you’re an interior designer. While a nasty bug cut short my shopping plans, I still managed a few highlights worth sharing.
Zara Home
Zara Home may not immediately sound like a design inspiration hotspot, but their Paris store floored me. The collection featured collaborations such as Vincent Van Duysen’s understated yet sophisticated pieces. I was particularly drawn to a sleek coffee table and armchairs that wouldn’t feel out of place in a high-end interior.
Their textiles are another highlight, offering thoughtfully designed options at a surprisingly accessible price point. I left with linen bedding and a gorgeous throw pillow that I could easily envision working into future styling projects.
French Pharmacies and Local Bookstores
A design trip wouldn’t be complete without small indulgences, and I found mine in French pharmacies and local bookstores. These treasures reminded me that the smallest details often lend personality to an interior. My favourite find? The Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil. Its minimal, elegant design fits beautifully into any bathroom or vanity.
Trends to Watch from Maison + Objet 2025
Maison + Objet has long been one of the premier events for uncovering global design trends, and this year did not disappoint. One key theme I noticed was a return to artisanal craftsmanship, with a focus on natural materials like wood, stone, and clay. The tactile nature of these materials speaks to a desire for interiors that feel grounded and connected to the earth.
Another standout was the juxtaposition of bold geometry with soft, organic forms. Many furniture pieces I saw featured angular metal accents paired with rounded, plush seating. This contrast feels fresh and endlessly adaptable.
Lighting also took centre stage, particularly sculptural pieces that double as art. Thoughtful lighting design can make or break a space, and the exhibitors at Maison + Objet showcased how light can truly transform an interior.
A Return to Paris
Paris left such an imprint on me that I’m already counting down the days to my next visit. Maison + Objet 2026 is in the diary, but beyond the event, I’m eager to explore even more of what the city has to offer.
This trip reaffirmed a truth I hold close to as a designer. Great interiors are born not just of creativity but of a willingness to explore, absorb, and learn from the world around us. Here’s to bringing a little Parisian inspiration into every space.