Maison & Objet is the Paris salon for all styles and trends, a forum for interior designers like Jean-Louis Deniot, who is known for his eclecticism.
Pure elegance
What do you like most about your work as a designer?
I love evolving within this universe and being a citizen of the world. I’m happy travelling to different countries and being surrounded by people from different backgrounds. Working in different parts of the world gives one an open mind, greater tolerance and makes the work a lot more interesting. I find travel really enriching. Experiencing other cultures is a source of inspiration that makes me very productive. My profession is about creating atmospheres that are appropriate for a particular place or people. The decor should express both the individual as well as the community.
How do you find a balance between the requirements of the market and your creativity?
It's a real dilemma! There’s a fine line. If you create something purely commercial, you’ll be able to sell it but the vision behind it will fade. If it’s a purely creative project, it's exciting because there is a buzz but it generates no income.
What are your most popular creations and how do you plan for the future?
My most exciting creations are always the ones to come! I’m often asked where I see myself in 10 years. I don’t look that far ahead. I just make sure everything stays on track, I put my foot on the accelerator, and keep on doing what seems right to me. I would like my company to become one of the most prestigious in the sector. Who knows, maybe in ten years I’ll retire!
What is your credo in design and in life?
I believe that when choosing a design, as in life, juxtapositions are the key to a colourful existence. I create to live, I don't live to create. What I do, I do to get the most of life. I like living in my design and sharing it. My friends come from the four corners of the world but we all live in artistic circles - fashion, advertising, music, TV, film, art and photography. We like to laugh, travel, drink, dance, share memories - and for me, this backdrop is essential. I believe that every fragrance we breathe is as important as the handle of a door we touch, the music we listen to, the drink we sip - all of this adds to our perception of the decor. One has to mobilize all of one’s senses to live each moment to the full.
What have you learned is the most important thing for a design?
Organisation, accuracy and dedication. My advice: don’t follow trends but create something that feels right.
Read the full interview in the latest edition of GG magazine.