Pierre Gonalons’ Paris

How long have you been living in Paris?

I was born in Lyons and have Italian roots, but Paris has been my home for the past 25 years.

Where would you say is the ultimate spot to get a real feel for the city?

I’d say that the area around the Palais-Royal, where I have worked and lived for many years, truly exudes the Parisian vibe. The Louvre, the Seine, the Palais-Royal gardens and the Opéra Garnier all play a part in making Paris what it is.

Which would you say are the city’s cultural musts?

I glean a lot of my inspiration from art history and the decorative arts, so the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay are two of my favourite haunts. To those, I’d add the Pompidou Centre and the Opéra Garnier for its flamboyant decor.

During Paris Design Week this September, you’ll be exhibiting in one of the Marais’ most historical settings - the hôtel de Soubise where the National Archives are housed. What do you make of the venue? 

The hôtel de Soubise is a magical and impressive place as it’s rooted in French history. It has retained the decor of a magnificent Louis XV-style residence, which is what foreigners love most about Paris. The Germain Boffrand woodwork is some of the best you’ll see. But above all, it’s a centre for knowledge where the most important French manuscripts are stored. I’ll be exhibiting in the Prince’s bedroom and drawing room on the ground floor, creating two installations that feature new furniture, rugs, lights and objects. Establishing a dialogue between the past and the present is always central to my work. 

Which restaurant or café would you say best captures the Parisian vibe?

That’s tricky, as capturing the Parisian vibe in just one spot is a massive challenge, but I’d say that the Palais-Royal’s Grand Véfour restaurant has managed to retain that traditional Parisian feel.

Do you have any secret addresses you’d care to share? 
 
I’d recommend Esther de Beaucé’s Galerie MiniMasterpiece, which is one of the addresses on the Paris Design Week trail. It’s a gallery that exhibits jewellery made by artists and designers, including myself. It’s located in a really pretty courtyard at 16 rue des Saints Pères in the 7th arrondissement.

Where is the best place to stay for anyone keen to explore the city? 

The Grands Boulevards neighbourhood between the 2nd and 9th arrondissements is always buzzing. The Chopin Hotel in passage Jouffroy still captures some of the old-world charm of XIXth century Paris.

A workshop, boutique or concept store that’s a great place to shop?

Passage Véro-Dodat in the 1st arrondissement, just a stone’s throw from the Louvre, has always been a fabulous place for a leisurely stroll and a spot of shopping. In early September, I’ll be opening my gallery at number 16, where I’ll be showcasing all my furnishings, lights and objects.

Which design piece can only be picked up in Paris?

I work with the embroiderer Maison Duchénoy for my interior design projects. Their store, which is just opposite the Louvre at 2 rue de Valois, sells household textiles and cushions that are all hand-embroidered in Paris.