C’est Chic
Among my passion for design, also lies a passion for food! Having a hubby that is a Boston restaurateur doesn’t hurt either. The first 10 minutes of most of our dining experiences are usually spent analyzing…well everything. On my end, I determine if the space is inviting. Did they select colors that evoke ambiance as well as hunger? How is the flow from the door to the bar to the dining room? Are there hooks under the bar for my bag? On his end, he observes the courteousness of the staff, the level of the music, and how bright the lights are. Yes- tough crowd, I know! But it is all in good fun. Once the food comes out- it is amazing how certain things that may have bothered us at first seem to go away as we savor a mouthful of foie gras or fresh burrata. My latest obsession and coincidently, my latest design project is designing a downtown Boston restaurant. We are transforming it into a fresh, casual French provincial eatery.
As I work on the design, I’m learning quite a bit about French dining and décor and I thought I’d share some interesting facts and history behind my two favorite things.
The word “brasserie” literally translates to “brewery” which may explain the long beer lists found in many brasseries in France. As opposed to a simple “bistro”, however, a brasserie offers a more formal dining experience wherein the customer may choose from a seasonal menu or simple hearty food. A bistro, on the other hand, is a more informal gathering space where locals would come together to enjoy wine and talk town business. In modern brasseries, you’ll find an energetic crowd ready to unwind over delicious food and drinks – it’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat or to linger over a glass of French wine after work.
The design of a brasserie is based off of traditional French Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements and gives a nod to times when landlords used to open up their kitchens to the public in order to make a little extra money. Deep wood paneling and splashes of red walls and accents throughout the space make the brasserie warm, inviting, and familiar. Wood flooring enhances the romantic atmosphere that can be found within brasseries, and diverse seating arrangements with small café tables and communal bar spaces give patrons a choice in their dining experience. Subway tiles are a staple of the traditional brasserie and can be found floor to ceiling as a perfect backdrop to gorgeous mirrors and eye-catching chandeliers creating a sleek and clean look throughout the restaurant.
Francois Thomazeau wrote, “A brasserie is where the pleasure of the eye is reunited with the pleasures of the table.”
Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!
XO,
Taniya
When in Rome
Sometimes you just need an escape from everyday life. Unfortunately getting away at the drop of a hat isn’t always realistic. So what better place to escape to than right in your own home? Here are some ways you can bring the awe-inspired sensation of your favorite travel spot right into your home.
Do you like the feel of the Italian countryside? Think neutrals like white-washed walls, beige linens in a heavy cotton, and rustic touches like wood or stone accents inspired by the old Tuscan stone homes.
Are you a hopeless romantic and dream of roaming the streets of Paris? Pick a few statement pieces like a dramatic oversized chandelier in wrought iron inspired by the Eiffel Tower. Find colors while window shopping on the Champs Elysees- you know that outrageously expensive elegant gown that you can’t get out of your head. Use it as your palette and Voila, in no time you’ll be transported to your own French flat.
Tropical Hawaiian vacations? Incorporate colors you’d find on the black sand beaches and deep umber sunsets. Use different shades of teals and taupe browns to create a calming feel. Try a grasscloth wallpaper inspired by a grass skirt or a thatched roof. Accent with deep oranges and golds from the sunset.
The sky is the limit when renovating with a travel hotspot in mind. Incorporating a few of these ideas into your humble abode will help ease the tensions of day to day life and create a soothing retreat right in your very own home.
XO,
Taniya
