The April issue of Elle Decor magazine is themed “the travel issue” and is full of luscious dwellings abroad. Capturing my heart is, of course, an apartment in Paris overlooking the Rue de l’Université on the Left Bank of the Seine. The apartment belongs to a glass and ceramics designer named Olivier Gagnère who has worked for Bernardaud among others. Ceramics are a particular passion of mine, and we were lucky enough to tour the Bernardaud factory in Limoges a few years ago. Peeking into the private home of one of their designers shows another facet of the creativity of this world. What a treat!

Gagnere Paris Apartment - Simon Upton for Elle Decor

Gagnere Paris Apartment - Simon Upton for Elle Decor

Gagnere Paris Apartment - Simon Upton for Elle Decor

Gagnere Paris Apartment - Simon Upton for Elle Decor

Gagnere Paris Apartment - Simon Upton for Elle Decor

Gagnere Paris Apartment - Simon Upton for Elle Decor

What I love: the liberal use of the colors lavender and tangerine; the striped Basque tablecloth (similar to our Saint Jean de Luz coated tablecloth); the wall collages of framed drawings, watercolors, and photographs; the bright red dinosaur perched above a cabinet; the pint-size kitchen with a full-size table set for four. These are among the best things in life…color, humor, breaking bread with friends. Wouldn’t you agree?