There’s something about France that makes you slow down and notice beauty differently.

From the layered architecture and charming cafés to the imperfect details that make every space feel collected over time, our recent trip reminded me that great design isn’t about perfection — it’s about feeling. Every hotel, restaurant, and street corner seemed to tell a story through texture, history, color, and character.

What struck me most was how naturally curated everything felt. Nothing was overly styled or sterile. Spaces felt lived in, personal, and deeply intentional in a way that we’re starting to see return in interior design today.

For years, minimalism dominated the design world — clean lines, sparse spaces, and neutral palettes ruled almost everything. But recently, there’s been a noticeable shift away from that ultra-minimal aesthetic and toward interiors that feel warmer, layered, and more expressive.

France felt like the perfect example of that evolution.

The homes and spaces that inspired me most weren’t necessarily grand; they were rich in texture, craftsmanship, and personality. Antique wood mixed effortlessly with modern furnishings. Marble was dramatic and full of movement. Lighting felt sculptural. Every room embraced contrast and character instead of trying to eliminate it.

It reminded me that luxury doesn’t have to feel cold or minimal. Sometimes the most beautiful spaces are the ones that feel collected slowly over time.

There are so many ideas from this trip that I’m excited to bring into future projects — from richer material palettes and layered textures to embracing more vintage elements and thoughtful imperfections that make a home feel truly personal.

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