April 12, 2012 by Carin Olsson
When people think of Paris, many think of a city that’s perhaps somewhat lacking in color… The city of light could, at first glimpse, come across as a city dominated by discreet and conservative neutrals. And how could it not? With beautiful, but often white or beige, buildings along every rue, avenue and boulevard in the city.
It can sometimes seem impossible to find any trace of color. But if you take your time and keep your eyes open (and away from the Champs-Élysées) you can find color everywhere in this amazing city. It seems like what the city is lacking in colored buildings and houses it makes up for with colorful details instead. One of the things I find to be the most interesting, when it comes to color here in Paris, are the amazing doors.
A detail that’s otherwise often overlooked. You see, Paris does color in its own way – discreet, chic, although bold and daring. Much like the city itself. Continue Reading »
Posted in Parisian Living | 8 Comments »
September 19, 2009 by Tory Hoen
While Paris is the perfect city for aimless ambling, there is a time and a place for directed exploration. Earlier this summer, I had the pleasure of taking Context Tours’ “Art and Architecture of Gothic Paris” walk, led by American architect and Paris resident Michael Herrman. While Context always keeps their tour groups small (usually 6 people max.), I was fortunate enough to have the tour all to myself, and—as is typical of Context tours—Michael was happy to customize the experience to my specific areas of interest. Continue Reading »
Posted in Arts, Tours and Classes | 1 Comment »
September 5, 2009 by Tory Hoen
The staircase and downstairs dining area.
In his work, German artist Markus Hansen spends considerable time trying to “undefine” himself. Whether working on films, sculpture installations, or urban projects, he uses his art to explore the contradictions he sees in the world. Eleven years ago, when he designed the apartment that would become his family’s home in Paris’ 5th arrondissement, his intention was quite the opposite. The duplex penthouse apartment—complete with 360 square meters of wraparound balconies and a rooftop terrace—is a study in spatial harmony and fluidity. Continue Reading »
Posted in Arts, Homes, Parisian Living | 1 Comment »
August 10, 2009 by Tory Hoen
With real estate prices declining and more unique living spaces becoming available to buyers, it’s an exciting time to be practicing architecture in Paris. I recently chatted with American architect Michael Herrman about the challenges and rewards of working in a city where contemporary design is finding its place amid some of Europe’s most revered historical architecture. Michael brings a fresh point-of-view to this paradox, maintaining that the most inspired architecture arises from the intersection of new and old, classic and modern, existing and imagined. In his recently launched private practice, he will continue to explore these dichotomies as he makes his mark on Paris. Continue Reading »
Posted in Arts, Parisian Living | 2 Comments »
