Hello, dear friends! I’ve shown you this view over the past year in various stages of completion. At last, all the elements have come together for my creative space in the Paris apartment! The final piece – a leather and gilt chair that I had custom made to go with my desk. Having it all finally set up inspired a brand new photoshoot with the last of the season’s peonies.
I’m not calling this an office, as I don’t wish to have a formal “office” any longer. I spent many years in the States in a lovely office with large windows looking out on evergreen trees, birds and roses. But the view was partly obscured by three large computer monitors that surrounded me – a requirement for the massive amount of image editing that I have undertaken over the last 18 years for books, stock images, licensing, magazine assignments and fine art imagery for the print shops.
After I moved to Paris, I vowed to have an open view from my desk and not feel walled in by computers. I have resisted getting any large screens, even though tempted sometimes as they are easier on my eyes. I do still use a laptop for daily admin and work projects but I just as often unplug it and use the desk for writing, and most recently, to begin envisioning and planning my next book on Paris!
If you have thoughts on what you would like to see included, do let me know in comments! I can say that it will include plenty of florals but will also my love of Parisian architecture, design and details. I plan to self publish this new book for full creative control so this is your opportunity to be part of the creative process, which I am very happy about. I love the idea of it being a collaborative effort with my long-time friends and followers.
I’ve been asked if this is really my desk or if it is just “for show.” It is, indeed, where I work. In fact, I’m sitting here right now as I write this journal post. But it certainly can be commandeered for photo shoots now and then.
A stack of some of my books with my Eiffel Tower fountain pen and Eiffel Tower scissors. The rose quartz, rose-shaped paperweight was a thrift store find many years ago.
Pretty vintage books from the brocantes are so inspiring.
The sweetest pale yellow spray roses from Cler Fleurs on Rue Cler that resemble David Austin English roses.
For this photoshoot, I opened the windows, although I don’t actually work with them open! Any number of birds, bees and bugs can fly in as the windows are three meters tall. Screens are not a feature of Parisian apartments. Nor is air conditioning. Which is an interesting conundrum when the weather is as hot as it has been this year.
I love tufted upholstery – it is so comfortable and stylish. The draped curtain arrangement is a result of me ordering the wrong size initially, then deciding to keep the extra long set to disguise the two radiators. At night, I can pull the inner curtains across the window, leaving the side curtains in place.
Thank you for joining the tour! I have included an abundance of photos to give you a feeling of being here. Other apartment posts can be found here, here and here.
Do let me know in comments what you’d love to see in a new book on Paris.
À beintôt!
xx
These images are everything I love…tall, open windows with endless light. Loads of pinks and pastels. A vintage white desk to work from. And the glorious white fabric framing it all! It’s inspirational! I know images can make life look much more beautiful than it is, but, I hope you are living the life you truly desired in Paris. All the best, G.
~Sharon (A New England Life/The Sweetest Days)
Hi Sharon! Thank you so much for your kind thoughts. This spot is truly a haven and one that I appreciate everyday. Life anywhere is complicated these days and Paris has its challenges. The move was massive with so many changes but I am grateful that I am having this adventure in this beautiful city. My best to you, as always, and thank you for following along. xx
This is so exquisite. You’ve curated everything so thoughtfully and intentionally. It is perfect.
I’m very excited to hear about a self published book. It gives you full creativity which is wonderful. I would like to see more of the beautiful hidden gems of Paris from a Parisian perspective. There are so many books about Paris which include all of the familiar landmarks, parks, shops, etc. What I’d like to see is those treasured little nooks and crannies that may be off the beaten path and out of the tourist limelight. For example, I went to the Eventail Fan Museum which was incredible and I would never have known about it if I hadn’t read an article about it by Victoria magazine beforehand. Plus, I’d also like to see some beautiful Paris apartments featured, including yours! Just my two cents! 💕
Hi Stace,
Aww, thank you so much! You know that it’s been a journey to get here and I’m really just starting. :)
I so appreciate your input on the book. It’s amazing how many places we’ve discovered through Victoria, isn’t it? I love the idea of that fan museum and will have to visit. Once this latest heat wave is over!
I think we all never get enough of Paris apartments so including those will be a must.
As always, your thoughts are very valuable and on the wavelength!
Have a wonderful weekend.
xx
💕
It’s all so beautiful!! Thank you for sharing your home.
Thank you for following along for the journey, Pam! It really does mean so much to me. xx
Georgianna, Thank you for my morning Paris beauty fix! I can almost smell the roses and peonies. Our spring in the Pacific Northwest was very wet which the plants loved but so all the seeds I planted that didn’t sprout and grow. My peonies were especially beautiful but too short lived as are the hydrangea now in bloom . I had an abundance of the white blooms and my less common varigated tree peony was a burst of color as well. This summer has arrived late but scorching. My ten David Austen rose bushes were intoxicating in full bloom but alas this heat is scorching the poor things. I must go tend to the dead heading and quench their thirst this a.m.
Your desk is perfect for writing and dreaming of new creations but would be difficult for me not to have open air breezes. Lucky you to be surrounded with all that beauty! Out to the garden I go before I must escape to the cooler shade by my stream!
I love your books so looking forward to the newest edition.
Dear Marie,
Thank you for this and I’m delighted to bring you your morning Paris fix!
My siblings still live in Seattle so I have heard all about the wet and dreary spring that you experienced. The plants and flowers just haven’t had the growing conditions they need – what a shame as spring and summer in the PNW are such a special part of living there. I’m so fond, as you know, of roses and hydrangeas so it is hard to hear of them struggling this year. Fingers crossed that next year is much better.
I do miss open air breezes! But I get outside to the river and parks and gardens most days and they are a great joy.
Ooo, you have a stream – that sounds just marvelous indeed!
Thank you again for your support.
My best,
G
Your home is so beautiful, it looks like a paradise. I’m very happy for you to have this elegant apartment in Paris, and I so admire the home you have created there.
As for what I’d like to see in your next book on Paris, I personally love tea and tea rooms and would love to see images of Parisian tea rooms if that would interest you. Most of all, I would love a book about your home and your daily life in Paris — where you get your bread and croissants, places you go in your neighborhood, your local parks, whatever is important to you — but mostly these interior views you’ve shown us of your rooms with masses of flowers and your balcony. Maybe you could include the story of how all of this came about.
Thank you for sharing so much beauty.
Hi Deborah, Thank you for your kind words and wishes. It is a dream come true to be here and to have this space, and I hope it is inspiring.
I so appreciate your input on what should be in the next book and I love the idea of the tea rooms. While there are many in the city, a few classics stand out as timeless treasures.
I feel my daily life isn’t that interesting but I do want to start sharing more about my neighborhood, which I love, and the features I love most about living here. I can definitely share the story of how this all came about – it’s a long one! I’ve been dreaming about living in Paris since I was a teenager so can say with certainty that it’s never too late, as long as you don’t give up.
Thank you again for your insightful suggestions and I will definitely keep them as I move forward with the book.
xx G
So relaxing and pretty . I can imagine myself sitting there and writing my own romantic journal.
Hi again, Huda,
That’s exactly what I hoped you could do – imagine this as a space you could create in. :)
Thank you!
The beauty you share with all is a feast for one’s eyes. Your tranquil palate combined with your ethereal photography brings a moment of peace to the viewer. Très magnifique.
I am so pleased to hear that, Ellen. Having a serene environment is vital for everyone and I’m very happy if this brings you peaceful moments. Merci beaucoup for all your kind comments and support. xx
I love this are. You have set it up so beautifully as well. I really really like those Eiffel Tower scissors, I would like to see more of the architecture and the non tourist areas of this beautiful city.
Hi Cheryl and thank you so much. I love the architecture, too, and will definitely include that, as well as non tourist areas. (And I purchased the Eiffel Tower scissors in the States! Just search via Google). My best, G
Not enough words in my vocabulary to describe how much I love your space. And envy too!! So beautiful. Thank you for sharing your home with us. Such a joy to see it all!
Hi Ruth!
You are always so kind, thank you! I tried to create a fantasy space that anyone could dream about.
I’m really pleased that you enjoyed the visit!
xx
Such beautiful envisioned dream. With a view like this I wouldn’t want a formal office. Your desk and new gilt chair needs to be seen thru the French doors adorned with beautiful flowing swag curtains. Congrats on you publishing your next book….I love seeing exterior and interior architecture plus elegant furnishings. And don’t forget landscaping with alfresco dining.
This is so lovely. Just feels and looks so peaceful.
I love seeing your beautiful office and all the settings you arrange…it makes me want another Paris trip and I am envious of you making this dream come true for you!
I have not seen all of your published books, but I wood love to visit with you the antique shops and even some of the sellers at the Paris Flea Market. I love your taste and will enjoy whatever you choose to photo!
Love your desk and new chair–so charming and inspiring. Noted the little Sarah Midda book, which I once had in my collection and so loved it!! Best wishes as you organize a book you will self publish. What a great idea!!
Apologies. I think I’ve made this comment before about Sarah Midda’s book…
Hi Carol! A late reply – my apologies. Thank you for your visit and comments. I do remember about the Sarah Midda book. I’m happy that I have a copy. All best, Georgianna
Your peonies, little pink dotted bud vases and pink paper weight are adorable. Such a sweet and inspiring way to open your email & start my day!! 💖💖💖
Thank you so much, Lisa! (Just catching up on things now 💕). xx
Your space is beautiful! Thank you for sharing it with us. I so look forward to your monthly blog and art. I feel like I am opening up a very special gift and I always save your email to enjoy during my quiet time. I have several of your books and look forward to this next one. Please include your favorite Parisian door!
That’s really wonderful news, Donna. And it means so much to me that you enjoy the monthly newsletter. I will do my best to continue to include content that you will savor during your quiet time. Everyone needs that time to recharge. My best, Georgianna
Such a gorgeous space Georgianna! It looks like such a lovely and inspiring space. Your monthly notes are such a treat – I look forward to seeing what beautiful thing you’ve done next! xx
Grazie, Bridget! Many thanks for your continued support and interest. xx
Hi, I would love to see a book on lavender and pictures of it throughout the French country side, hanging to dry, featured in baskets, etc. I have your three books ” in bloom”, maybe a Pronvence in bloom could be a next one.
Hello, Carol, and thank you for stopping by. My apologies for the delayed response. Thank you so much for having my three books in the Cities in Bloom series. I actually did pitch Provence in Bloom to my publisher some years ago but they did not choose that. Not to say I might not do it myself one day. So, you had a very good idea! My best, Georgianna