Here, the art of living is given pride of place. Artists' portraits, contemporary furnishings, decorative items, beauty products and restaurants meet everypossible desire.
This “Mini kitchen” signed Meneghini has everything its big sister provides. And quite logically, it fits into our offices with great success. It camouflages its two electric hot plates and chrome steel sink, a fridge and drawers in a solid multi-layer wood cabinet with doors with laminated panels. Absolutely essential ! To discover on meneghiniarredamenti.com
<u>Nice</u> Nathalie Couadau and Alexandra Rossi share an almost immoderate taste for interior decor. They have turned their passion into their work, the first as interior decorator, the second as interior designer. Today, they are pooling their talents and launching Absinthe, a boutique and consultancy, necessary for several reasons. Why do people stop in to see them ? For a coffee, comfortably installed on the couch. To discover the many items that Nathalie and Alexandra unearth here and there (they are the exclusive representatives of “Absolument Absinthe, le Parfum d’Interdits” on the Riviera), to discuss a project or simply enjoy the atmosphere. “We like the ambiance in this working-class neighbourhood, the vitality which emerges from it.” Energy the pair certainly don’t lack, as they are capable of handling everything on a project, from the initial stroke of the pen to its final expression. Orders are in fact flooding in though, for the sake of discretion, nothing is divulged until contracts are signed. The boutique itself is in perpetual motion, following the flow of the arrival and departure of various objects. Depending on the seasons and events, the stage is set and then evolves. Coming very soon, a “chic and ad hoc flea-market “ that the locals are already awaiting impatiently. Absinthe, 54 boulevard Joseph-Garnier (04 93 35 71 31).
Because its aim is to represent contemporary art currents of the 20th century, Fondis sets its sights on a cutting-edge approach synonymous with architectural research and high-tech. Its fireplaces are presented in the form of collections (Minimal Art, Arte Povera, Art Deco, Abstract Art, International Style and Design) thus offering a concept both daring and appealing. For each model, there are three absolute musts : technicity, design and emotion. “Modis” (shown here) perfectly illustrates the point. A fireplace characterized by generous geometric forms, midway between sculpture and an item dedicated to heating, “Modis” proposes a gentle, elusive stance and combines two shades of marble with lines both elegant and sleek. In a choice of three configurations and six colours. Fondis Atry’Home, 9 avenue Georges-Pompidou, Grasse (04 93 09 04 90).
It just need thinking about... And Fissler did ! An exceptional pot, a masterpiece for fans of cooking... and jewelry ! Baptized “Diamond”, this little marvel, presented in a box of precious wood, is fitted with handles and the brand’s logo, forged from 739 grams of 18-carat gold and set with 270 diamonds polished by master cutters. Mostly for “potty chefs” ! 150,000 €. To order : 0 800 90 57 68.
<u>Vallauris</u> Three distinct lines, more than 500 basic models and hence thousands of possible combinations, all proposed by Ixina in general, together with a new showroom in Vallauris in particular. This entity belonging to the Snaidero group also offers an electro area, mainly dedicated to built-in models. Complementary and logical. Throughout the shop, an impressive number of kitchens are presented, answering to the names of “Cambia”, “Rialto”, “Loft” or “Prima”, all contemporary in their materials (stainless steel), design and colours. Naturally enough, electrical appliances include the major brands from Whirlpool to Scholtès, Ariston, Bosch, AEG, Fagor etc. A must for all those who dream of a kitchen in tune with the 21st century. 3030 Chemin Saint-Bernard (04 93 64 29 73).
“Smeraldo” is a precious bed, both gem and setting. A clever paradox, it nevertheless asserts a certain masculinity. Its sober design is set off by a bed frame with sensual and protective curves. Illustrating technical know-how, it is adorned with a silky fabric and offers a wide array of materials and colours, allowing each of us to imagine our perfect bed. Bontempi Casa, 28 rue Négresko, Marseille 8e (04 91 22 84 27)
Valente Design is known for its lighting and radiators. And, for one as for the other, the choice offers both quality, quantity and… design. The latest proposal to date from these committed professionals are one-off radiators. Like this one, an offering from Cinier, in stone and rubber worked in relief (4,800 e + VAT). “The customer can imagine all kinds of things,” says Sandra Valente, “incrustations with rhinestones, photos....” Valente Design doesn’t shy away from challenges. ZA Saint-Maur, route de Collobrières, Cogolin (04 94 54 46 84).
Tired of poster images and observing that wall decoration makes it impossible to sublimate the work of the photographer, Angéline Bailly, a graphic artist by training, has decided to develop quality digital printing. In addition to her large thematic works, she has now produced a whole range of images, cushions, wallpaper, lampshades, seating such as a small sofa, an armchair and chair, revolving around various themes such as the Beatles, the Big Apple, Marilyn Monroe... We appreciate her style and her judicious choices that contribute a note of gaiety to home décor. To discover on www.teojasmin.com
When Christian Duc reinvestigates the tie-dye technique, he sheds new light on the craft of his native Vietnam and invites us, with these “Eclipse” cushions made for Becquet, to admire the charm of neutral colour. His shades of gray and off-white give the bedroom timeless chic and sobriety, ideal for relaxing and dreaming. From 19 €. www.becquet.fr
The fireplace of the 21st century no longer has an evacuation duct and treats itself to incredibly flexible design. “Tower” thus becomes a highly decorative item to be placed here or there, in the lounge or poolside. With its structure of steel and reinforced glass, it is 100% ecological, functions on bio-ethanol and foretells the fireplace of tomorrow. 4,664.40 €. Ecosmart. 0 820 200 312 et sur le site internet www.ecosmartfire.com.
The brand has accustomed us to unusual hearths. “Kinefocus” is no exception to the rule, overthrowing once again our preconceived ideas. This closed, directional hearth is available in three versions : with a corner closed to the right (opposite), to the left or perpendicular to the wall. The hearth seems to jut out from the wall and imposes its presence, along with a strong personality... and a certain insolence. Focus Lynn, 370 route de la Roquette, Mouans-Sartoux (04 92 92 88 20)
<u>Cannes</u> The first, Henri Darricau, never works without the second, his wife Catherine. A duo that has functioned to perfection for over 15 years in Cannes. “Our boutique Siroki is a bonus for our interior design and decoration activity. It is a showcase with a contemporary ambiance that covers the best of everything that is currently on offer worldwide. In fact, the major brands are all represented.” As for consultancy, you’ll find samples, plans..., those of work in progress and projects, of course. For if Siroki’s current activity always revolves around private apartments and villas, in all four corners of the world, the future looks just as intense. “Our speciality, and what we love above all else, is turn-key projects. The idea of controlling a project from A to Z, overseeing an entire home or apartment, is always an exciting challenge.” When customers give them “carte blanche”, Catherine and Henri Darricau give priority to contemporary warmth, “where the living is easy, in the spirit of today.” 3 rue Florian et 9 rue du Commandant-André (04 93 68 99 21).
The Eva Solo dishcloth relegates its predecessor to the closet, always wet and sloppy on the edge of the sink. It owes its new look to Claus Jensen and Henrik Holbaek : cylindrical, microfiber and absorbent foam, it stands up straight on its stainless steel base. Available in gray or sand, it can be proudly enthroned in the kitchen. 32 €, two refills 16 €. In sales at Baz’Arte, quartier Nouvelle Poste, Saint-Tropez (04 94 97 09 49).
Audrey and Eric Nickel work in osmosis. Hence the name of their recently opened showroom. Accomplices and complementary, the pair have made the place a showcase with a technical bureau for their respective skills : renovation for him, decoration for her. When they’re not working on site, the couple fly to Indonesia to unearth furniture and objects. It is there, too, that the pieces they design are produced, mostly customized : tables, chairs..., combining wood and stone (granite, marble, lava stone). “We ask local craftsmen to work directly from a piece of stone,” says Audrey. Obviously, the shop in Nice changes and evolves depending on new arrivals, offering terra-cotta, lighting, paintings that complete an ambiance and give it soul. Worth noting : Osmose delivers and installs imposing items on display free of charge. Osmose, 16 rue Barla (04 92 04 83 82).
Vivid, peppy, design, trendy, Erard’s “Whoopee” support for flat screens finally takes audiovisual furniture away from standardization. Cast in resin, 100 % recyclable, it is mounted and dismantled in the wink of an eye. A silk-screened glass plate gives it a soft or downright psychedelic look, as you prefer… From 99 €. In sales at La Fnac, 44 avenue Jean-Médecin, Nice et 83 rue d’Antibes, Cannes (0 825 020 020).
Imagined by Alessandro Mendini and Gabriele Centazzo, “LacucinaAlessi” is a blend of impeccable technology, highly accurate ergonomics and esthetic design, the result of research related to intimate, evocative and emotional factors. The designers add a touch of poetry, thanks to curvy lines. “LacucinaAlessi” offers a spiritual dimension : its user prepares food in a relaxing, Zen-like atmosphere. Alessi by Valcucine. In sales at Scenari, 35 avenue du Maréchal Juin, Cannes (04 93 69 48 54).
For this manufacturer, design, comfort, warmth and safety remain essential criteria when it comes to hearths. Fireplaces to be enjoyed, with about 200 models with open or closed hearths. Whatever your favourite style, there is surely one to suit you. Perhaps “Obanne” (opposite), a very contemporary option : black lacquer and corner hearth with large windows. For moments of brightness and cheer. Richard le Droff cheminées, 609 route de la Roquette, rond point du Tiganon, Mougins (04 92 92 14 38).
The “Environnement” bed belongs to the collection "Les Contemporaines", a range in which colours, materials and design are invited to reflect the trends of today. With fully removable covers, “Environnement” has a padded bedhead and cushions. Designed by Michel Goineau for Roche Bobois. Roche Bobois, 3015 chemin Saint-Bernard, Vallauris (04 93 65 45 62).
Antibes Kitchen Design is a showcase for Tomassi models. The Italian brand here presents some of its flagship products, contemporary of course, and testimonials to the inimitable know-how of transalpine design. Among other things, we discover “Andromeda”, all in shiny lacquer, “Opera” in ash-like wengé and “Oxana” with its strict lines. Along with Tomassi, the showroom also displays Latini Design Cucine. 2551 chemin St-Claude, Antibes (04 93 74 52 40).
You have to think twice before daring to tread on these works of art. Because, at the heart of the new collection signed Serge Lesage, carpets look like paintings. “Cloé” and its two large motifs of stylized flowers with changing reflections invite contemplation (2,892 €) ; “Eurus” with its subtle gradation of grey creates a solar eclipse (1,440 €) while “Ruby”, all in curves and a soft grey monochrome, recalls the 1930’s (1,356 €). A matter of taste, time and place... Sales at Chaix Décoration, 8 rue Paul-Déroulède, Nice (04 93 88 52 02).
