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Parisian Designer Jean-Louis Deniot's Guide to Exploring Paris #LikeALocal

  • Amelia Perches
  • Jan 10, 2017
  • 4 min read

Recognized throughout the world for his eclectic interiors, Parisian designer Jean-Louis Deniot is known for his neo-classical style with different variations of influence. His work seamlessly blends patterns, textures, and pieces from differing periods, allowing for a richly layered feel.

In preparation for Maison&Objet Paris, Ligné spoke with Deniot about his favorite Paris hot spots, as well as his tips and tricks to navigating both Paris and Maison #LikeALocal.

Ligné: Where would you recommend Paris visitors to stay?

Deniot: I just completed the Nolinski hotel on the Avenue de l’Opéra. It has a very fresh, super Parisian feel, generous, artsy decor with a hint of decadence. There are about 50 rooms designed like Parisian apartments, so guests instantly feel like locals. The service could not get any nicer. It's a cool, sexy, curious 5 star hotel, and the cherry on top is the amazing pool and spa area.

Hotel Recamier on the Place Saint Sulpice is a hotel I did about 5 years ago, in fact my very first hotel project. It has 24 guest rooms and overlooks Place Saint Sulpice in the heart of the St Germain des Près area. I renovated it as if it was a private house. Each room is different, with its own color palette and various furnishing and art. It is a very charming hotel - no one feels like a tourist there, because you breathe with Paris and the ambiance and flair of the area.

L: What would you consider to be "must see" hot spots for visitors? What local shops would you recommend?

D: Le Marais is the most beautiful, historic area of Paris. It has become a fashion destination unto itself with excellent shopping. You have very established labels alongside young experimental designers in stores whose architecture dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Le Marais, Paris via TIME Magazine

La Marais, via TIME Magazine

The 10th Arrondissement is also very cool, with organic restaurants, people-watching from lively terraces, and highly creative concept stores.

The 10th Arrondissement, via Big Eats Tiny Kitchen

Paris has no shortage of incredible art and museums to see. There are always exhibits through the Louvre, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Musée d'art moderne de la ville de Paris, Palais de Chaillot, Grand Palais, and many more. There really is something for every interest and every person, it’s just a matter of checking what’s out there!

I highly recommend the flea market in Saint Ouen, just north of Paris, called the Clignancourt flea market. Paul Bert Serpette are the best markets there. This is an endless source of inspiration, with pieces for every budget, very eclectic merchandise, odd curiosities and fun clichés! The Porte de Vanves flea market, south of Paris, is excellent on weekends as well.

L: What restaurants/bars would you recommend for visitors?

D: Brasserie Réjane, the restaurant at the Nolinski on Avenue de l’Opéra, is my own version of a Parisian Brasserie. It’s a nice, fun spot for lunch or dinner. Otherwise, I can often be found at the Bistro de Paris. As far as traditional French Bistros go, this is the real McCoy, with the same atmosphere since it opened in 1870. There is also Chez Georges on Rue du Mail, which is in the same style.

The best Italian in town is Caffe Stern, fabulous contemporary translation of traditional Italian cuisine, the best ever! One of my recent favorites is Le Bon Saint Pourçain, probably the smallest restaurant in town as it has only about 10 tables ! Their meats and vegetables are all coming straight from their organic farm outside of Paris.

L: What tips/tricks would you give to someone coming to Paris for the first time?

D: I would recommend not to follow a guidebook, not even bringing one! Just like when I go to Rome: no maps, no plans, no predictable scenario, I just get lost in the streets. That’s how you get to discover treasures and great surprises. I believe the best way to see Paris is to dedicate each half-day to a specific area and get lost until you discover your favorite spots. If you follow a guide, every other tourist in town will also be there and the places are somewhat designed for tourists now. It is magical to go to the Louvre courtyard behind the pyramid, to cross the Seine river via the Pont des Arts, have a drink at Cafe de Flore and hit the Castel club dance floor.

L: What tips/tricks would you give to someone attending Maison for the first time?

D:I suggest not to try to see too much of it in one day; I would suggest to spend only a half a day each day, as the eyes can get tired taking in so much. You also need to study ahead to decide which vendors you wish to see and in which areas. If you do Maison et Objet randomly you’ll go crazy, but if you decide to do one or two specific halls each day, you have a much more productive time. It's an incredible show, but there is just so much that it is all about saving yourself for what are your real interests!

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