I love Fall and all the festivities that come with this time of year. Growing up near Paris, the season meant shorter days, cooler weather, and plenty of rain. We didn’t celebrate Halloween; instead, we observed All Saints’ Day, a national holiday in France, by visiting cemeteries, cleaning our ancestors’ graves, and decorating them with chrysanthemums. You can imagine how much I now enjoy the exuberance of Halloween decorations and the warmth of Thanksgiving traditions – with their Fall wreaths and seasonal touches that ease us into winter.
This fall I got the chance to visit family in France and explore a bit of a my favorite regions. Here’s a look at my trip, recent work and a French-sational Spotlight interview with the The French Spy, an antique haven in historic downtown Carnegie, PA.
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French-Sational Flea/Antique Market In Paris:
Earlier in October, I had the chance to visit my mother in France and spend a few lovely days in Paris. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for a stroll through the famous Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen – a true Parisian institution known for its incredible selection of antiques and vintage treasures. Collectors and design lovers from all over the world flock there to explore its charming alleys.
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French-Sational Design Consultation:
Our design consultation service has been buzzing with activity – and we love collaborating with clients to solve their design challenges!
Recently, we guided homeowners through the final design and finish selections for their kitchen remodel. The existing space felt dark and enclosed, with limited daylight, dark cabinetry, and standard 8-foot ceilings. Their initial choices leaned toward similar dark tones, which would have further weighed down the room.
Together, we created a more balanced palette that adds warmth and contrast:
- Lower cabinetry: rich dark wood finish
- Upper cabinetry & island: soft cream tone to brighten the space
- Countertops: creamy surface with bold veining for visual interest
- Backsplash: subtle taupe for harmonious transition
- Hardware: dark accents for definition and depth
The result is a timeless and inviting kitchen that feels brighter, more open, and beautifully cohesive.
Don’t let design decisions overwhelm you. Book a consultation – or surprise someone with the gift of great design!
French-Sational Spotlight:
For those of you who follow us on social media, you may have seen our interview series, French-sational Spotlight, where we showcase inspiring creators and their businesses. One of our latest features took us to Carnegie, where we met the owners of The French Spy, a charming antique store brimming with character. Every corner of their shop tells a story, filled with carefully curated treasures that celebrate craftsmanship and beauty of timeworn pieces.
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