Francophiles rejoiced last night as we launched our Spring/Summer 2014 collection A Season in France at our flagship Chelsea store. Flying the flag for the country that has over the years been a go-to source of inspiration for the Conran family, the historic Michelin House building on Fulham road was simply a buzz with all things French.
From the Gallic charm of traditional blue and white kitchen textiles, lobster crackers and mussel pots evoking authentic Provencal lifestyle, to a new generation of French talent including colour-pop metal outdoor furniture, handmade ceramics and iconic Le Corbusier designs.
Ever-changing and inspirational, The Blue Room was transformed into a slice of Parisian heaven complete with built-in bespoke bar and vintage furniture. Pillars were painted with the tricolour French flag and one of the national emblems of France the Gallic rooster was emblazoned across the wall.
There was a table laden with mouth-watering mini sweet treats from one of the jewels in France’s culinary crown La Pâtisserie des Rêves, while a nearby tower of full-flavoured dips and tapenades from aix&terra celebrated traditional recipes descended from the best culinary know-how of Provence, France. As the bubbles flowed courtesy of Champagne de Bleuchamp, customers and guests roamed the store discovering the very best in French design, art, food and drink on their travels.
While this event has us daydreaming about lounging poolside in Saint Tropez, exploring the fragrant lavender fields of Provence and treating ourselves to the gourmet delights synonymous with the country; there is no need to book a trip on the Eurostar just yet.
A Season in France continues across three Conran stores (Chelsea, Marylebone and Paris) until June and as we enjoy more sun-dappled days and move into summer expect the spirit of holidaying in the French Riviera to takeover. Vive La France!
Shop our top 10 buys to A Season in France:
1. Projecteur 365 pendant lamp by Le Corbusier, £650
2. EM table by Jean Prouvé, £2,850
3. Le Corbusier notebook, £15
4. Hand-painted French plate by Andrew McGarva, £130
5. Côté Bastide linen apron by Nicole Houque, £65
6. Bibendum loung chair by Eileen Gray, £2,995
7. Le Véritable Pied de Coq tea towel, £18
8. Stitched gingham placemat, £85
9. Tourron soup bowl, £18
10. Jean Louis doll by Caroline Castagna-Suarez, £40
Visit our Facebook page to see all of our A Season in France launch event photos. Plus, our incredible before and after photos from our A Season in France Chelsea store windows.