“If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere” -Van Gogh, The Paris Years
Boulevard De Clichy, Paris 1887
Bonjour toute le monde, ca va? I’ve been with my family the past few days and we’re watching old movies and
reminiscing about trips we’ve taken over the years. My mom has always loved Van Gogh and with the passing of Kirk Douglas it was only natural that we watch Lust for Life the other night. It got me thinking about sweet, sensitive Vincent and his life so I started searching for paintings he created while living in Paris from 1886-1888.
The Parisian Novels, 1887
View from Theo’s Apartment, 1886
He was someone who purposefully looked for beauty. Somewhere between the years of sunflowers and starry nights, he lived with his brother Theo in Montmartre. His Paris works exceed 200 pieces, so it’s incredible that he only sold 2 canvases in his lifetime. What’s also amazing is how fascinated he was by the same things in Paris that we are today. The view from his window, the rooftops, the chimneys, the light…his works are a sort of gentle, visual map of a changing city at a pivotal time. His letters are a real insight into his mental state, personality and true lust for life.
Theo’s Apartment, 1886
View from the Apartment, rue Lepic
appartement-de-theo-van-gogh-rue-lepic
View of Paris from Montmartre, 1886
I love how lush this one is and how we can almost feel the coolness of the green leaves on a summer day. Montmartre is still one of the best places in Paris to find trees outside a window. It’s easy to see why he was so inspired to capture the essence of the day.
View of Paris, 1886
Like a puzzle, we can piece together his two years in the city and understand what his life was like while living there. Such a wild time. It was the Industrial Revolution after all. An incredible era with exhibitions and new inventions, photography, steam engines, a building boom and a world evolving at the speed of light. Painters, writers, sculptors, philosophers, architects and new plans for every corner. It was probably a lot to take in and he was a sensitive, delicate soul. Seems like he may have spent a lot of time looking out the window onto the busy city, just happy to be an observer sometimes.
Paris Rooftops 1886
As much as the rooftops fascinated him, he did go out and when he did was all over the city from top to bottom, sketching and painting every inch including the places we know and love like the Louvre and the Opera.
The Pont du Carrousel and the Louvre, 1886
It’s amazing to see how much was undeveloped. Paris is an ancient city and yet at that time it still had wide open spaces.
View Of Paris With The Opera, 1886
Allee Jardin du Luxembourg, 1887
Avenue in a Park, 1888
The parks were a refuge then as they are now. Some things just don’t change. As a sensitive person he sought out places that provided a quiet solitude.
In the Boulogne Forrest, 1886
He studied the passersby as well at their daily activities, fascinated by the lives and times of typical Parisians.
State Lottery, Paris 1887
The Brothel, 1887
To get away from the bustling commercial center of town, he spent a lot of time just outside the city limits, in Asnières, an area in the northwestern suburbs along the Seine. His paintings show how Paris was developing and progressing, but he was able to find places of silence and simple pleasures by the Seine, enjoying the boats, the restaurants and gardens and open spaces while documenting the development during those two busy years.
Fortifications of Paris with Houses, 1887
It’s truly fascinating to see how open and uncluttered Paris was at the time. He must have looked for places to set up his easel where he could find glimmers of nature. He really leads us through a changing world and must have kept one step ahead of to avoid the confusion and noise. If we look at his body of work as a whole, his main focus is usually on color, light and natural elements. Cities aren’t normally convenient places to find any of that but he sought it out and translated it onto the canvas.
Walk on the Banks of the Seine in Asnières, 1887
On the Outskirts of Paris, 1887
The Laundry Boat on the Seine at Asnières
Exterior of La Sirene at Asnières, 1887
Banks of the Seine at Pont De Clichy, 1887
The Banks of the Seine, 1887
The Banks of the Seine with Boats, Spring, 1887
The Bridge of Courbevoie, Paris, 1887
The Seine at the Pont de Clichy
As much as he loved the outskirts he found his way back to Montmartre and that seemed to be his touchstone as it was also home base. Many of his paintings feature the windmills and gardens and vineyards and cafes which were part of everyday life.
Montmartre, Paris, 1886
Vegetable Gardens in Montmartre, 1887
The Hill of Montmartre with Stone Quarry and Windmills, 1886
Terrasse du Café la Guinguette À Montmartre, 1886
Le Blute-Fin Mill, 1887
Le Moulin de la Galette, 1887
Le Moulin de la Galette, 1887
Montmartre Behind the Moulin de la Galette, 1887
Montmartre Windmills and Allotments, 1887
Factories Near Montmartre, 1887
Sloping Path in Montmartre, 1886
Impasse des Deux Freres, 1887
There are so many more pieces but I guess they will have to wait for another day. For now, dear Vincent continues to live on fascinating us with his life and times and beautiful perspective on the places we know and treasure. His paintings never get old and have an innocence that still touches us to this day. I’m feeling nostalgic about him today, wishing he had found peace and love and satisfaction. We know though that he never did, so Iet’s just end with the song that says it all…
Paint your palette blue and grey
Look out on a summer’s day
With eyes that know the darkness in my soulShadows on the hills
Sketch the trees and the daffodils
Catch the breeze and the winter chills
In colours on the snowy linen land
Now I understand
What you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
How you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they’ll listen now
Starry, starry night
Flaming flowers that brightly blaze
Swirling clouds in violet haze
Reflect in Vincent’s eyes of China blue
Colours changing hue
Morning fields of amber grain
Weathered faces lined in pain
Are soothed beneath the artist’s loving hand
What you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
How you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they did not know how
Perhaps they’ll listen nowFor they could not love you, love you
But still your love was true
And when no hope was left in sight on that starry, starry night
You took your life as lovers often do
But I could have told you, Vincent
This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you
Oh, starry, starry night
Portraits hung in empty halls
Frameless heads on nameless walls
With eyes that watch the world and can’t forget
Like the strangers that you’ve met
The ragged men in ragged clothes
The silver thorn of a bloody rose
Lie crushed and broken on the virgin snow
Now I think I know
Oh, what you tried to say to me
How you suffered for your sanity
How you tried to set them free
They would not listen, they’re not listening still
Perhaps they never will
Top 10 French Coffee Table Books for 2020
Bonjour toute le monde! It’s that time between holidays when there are a few moments of quiet to get lost in the wonderland of the web…and you know what they say, the time we enjoy wasting is not wasted time! That said, it did take a minute to round up this wishlist of books, some of which are written by talented women I’ve admired for years. Each is filled with art, furniture, fabrics and trim, decorated doors and ceilings, chandeliers, outdoor spaces, architecture and style that has stood the test of time. I’d love to have any one of them on my cocktail table. If you’re looking for the perfect gift, check these beauties out for yourself and get lost in a world of imagination. And so, for those who’d rather curl up with a book than a phone…we say, happy reading!
Have more cocktail books to recommend? Please share in the comments below!
ok this last one isn’t really a book, it’s a decorative journal with blank pages but i do love the cover!
Just fyi, please note that some of the links are affiliate. I only recommend products I love because I think you’ll love them too!
Top 10 Paris Perfect Apartment Rentals for a Soirée Privée
Bonjour friends, ça va ? I hope your summer’s in full swing and you’re savoring delicious August.
It’s been pretty busy this summer with trips and guests and tours and clients and friends. I split my time between Paris and Miami and always keep an eye out for apartments to stay in, and lately for spaces that could work as petite venues too. We’re planning to host a sort of a modern Salon this spring in Paris with events and dinners, and apartments work well because of the intimacy they offer, the luxuriousness of having a real home and the joy of being able to cook, converse, share ideas and entertain. (Quietly and respectfully bien sur)!
I’ve had the pleasure of staying in some of the apartments on this list thanks to my colleague and friend, Madelyn, of Paris Perfect Apartment rentals. Madelyn is a legend with all that she does to restore, renovate and rebuild some of the most interesting and exquisite apartments in the city. All for our pleasure! Paris is her passion and she’s worked tirelessly to bring us the full experience by considering every 5 star detail. She also has a youTube channel where you can see her process. This was her first episode and it’s packed with good stuff!!
So…in celebration of our 10th year of camaraderie, it’s my honor to surprise her with a showcase some of my personal favorite ParisPerfect apartments that would be a dream for entertaining, creating and making memories. Some of these are contenders for the upcoming salons. Each has a different vibe and was chosen for the state of the art kitchen and bath, gorgeous decor and that overall glorious Paris Apartment feeling. Some are long term, all have different styles and capacity, but each has an undeniable charm that begs to be enjoyed and adored! Let’s dive right in:
BEAUNE
How could we not fall in love with this sweet apartment with French doors and muted tones? The open air layout still with separate rooms is beyond elegant in this petite space. A great place to entertain with a big table, lots of light and antique accents.
Two luxurious bedrooms have been beautifully remodeled to include central heating, and a fully-equipped kitchen with modern appliances. Both bedrooms have quiet courtyard views and air conditioning for warm nights in Paris. The Beaune is located in the 7th arrondissement on Paris’ Left Bank and is surrounded by chic cafés, boutiques, restaurants and open markets.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/beaune.php
CHATILLON
Definitely one of my faves, but then I’m a sucker for floor to ceiling windows and an original mantle mirror. Toss in a chandelier, that deep plum velvet and the view, what’s not to love? And there’s enough space to have separate convos including the terrace that can be accessed by both rooms.
Set in the 7th arrondissement, the Chatillon is a magnificent two bedroom in a spectacular neighborhood. The balcony can be entered from the living room or dining room for incredible Eiffel Tower views. This spacious apartment features gorgeous décor, an ultra modern kitchen and two comfortable bedrooms overlooking the courtyard. Every detail in this deluxe apartment has been carefully finished, from the intricate details of the historic woodcarving to the exquisite marble in the bathrooms.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/chatillon.php
LUSSAC
With all the opulence and design in Paris, it’s nice to find an apartment like this with wood beams, wide plank floors and natural elements. Compact yet exactly what you’d need with comfy chairs and ample dining table. The pretty kitchen is separated which adds to the ability to have multiple goings on at once.
Lussac is a one bedroom in the heart of the Latin Quarter, a lovely neighborhood with an open-air market. It’s a peaceful setting to enjoy the charm of Parisian life while being just a stroll from the Seine, Notre Dame, fabulous food, shopping, and all the best of the lively Latin Quarter. Set in a building dating from the 1600s, it features historic stonework, original tiles and beautifully restored wooden beams throughout that add so much character. Not to mention the antique chandeliers, gorgeous tile work and antique armoire doors that are built into the kitchen and bedroom!
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/lussac.php
ALOXE
This is such a fabulous apartment, although only available for long term stays. Not a bad place to call home with its giant windows, chevron floors and balcony…and it’s a fantastic place for a small group to cook and converse comfortably.
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The Aloxe offers everything you need for a comfortable long term stay, including air conditioning in the two bedrooms, a 5th floor location with elevator, and a light and airy open plan living room, dining room and kitchen. The fully equipped kitchen is designed in the angle of the dining area, making meals easy to prep and enjoy with family and friends. Each of the two bedrooms is beautifully designed and features an en suite bathroom. Large windows throughout and its upper floor setting means loads of light all day long. Beautiful architectural details, crown molding, marble fireplace mantels, shimmering chandeliers and elegant Parisian style are all packed in to this lovely apartment.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/aloxe.php
BEAUJOLAIS
This apartment has big green trees out the windows and the cozy bedrooms with baths that are just divine. There are 3 tall windows that open onto a beautiful street where you can see the Eiffel Tower. The living and dining room have an open plan making it easy to work and entertain at the same time.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/beaujolais.php
Beaujolais is a gorgeous two bedroom, two bath in the charming 7th arrondissement on Paris’ Left Bank. It’s been fully remodeled and features a beautifully decorated living room, a lovely dining area, spacious kitchen and en suite bathrooms in both bedrooms. The sofa in the living room opens to create two single beds. With an additional half bath, Beaujolais comfortably welcomes up to five guests.
CLOS-JOLIE
It’s hard to describe this apartment because it’s a really interesting duplex but suffice it to say that it’s one of the most unique spaces in Paris. It’s great for dinner parties and events because there are multiple rooms and places for smaller conversations. The decor, the floors and the windows make it even more enticing and an excellent space for a meeting of the minds.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/clos-jolie.php
In the heart of Paris’ 1st arrondissement, the Clos Jolie is a fully remodeled 3 bedroom apartment. It features a modern kitchen, elegant and comfortable living room and gorgeous dining room. The first bedroom overlooks the quiet courtyard of the historic building. The Clos Jolie features a mezzanine level with two bedrooms and a bathroom.
LALANDE
Warning: You may not leave this apartment as it has everything you could want and more! Floor to ceiling windows, open plan for entertaining, table for 6, wrap-around balcony and the view! I also like that there are 3 bedrooms and 2 are upstairs.
Lalande is a three bedroom duplex on Paris’ Left Bank. An open-plan living and dining room with traditional French design and a warm neutral palette emit style and elegance. A second living area to the rear of the property provides a great spot for putting your feet up. The fully equipped kitchen has all you’ll need for preparing meals. Adjoining the living room, you’ll find the first bedroom, complete with a cute writing desk and large French windows. Upstairs are two more bedrooms. The pièce-de-résistance is the wrap-around balcony, wide enough for a bistro table, with Eiffel Tower views.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/lalande.php
CAVAILLES
J’adore this apartment for the architecture, windows and walls and doors and floors! Not to mention the bedrooms…however this is a long term rental…which might not be such a bad thing…especially with 3 bedrooms. it’s the perfect place for a small group to stay comfortably and the huge living and dining rooms are separated which makes it great for separate activities.
This spacious three bedroom apartment is the epitome of Parisian living. Situated in Le Marais, Cavailles is surrounded by authentic and thriving markets, shops and bistros. It’s packed full of French charm with beautiful parquet flooring, traditional wainscoting and high ceilings. Two large balcony doors bathe the room in natural light. A decorative mantelpiece and plush sofas make the salon the ultimate space to relax. The living area leads into a formal dining area, with ample space to entertain. A modern kitchen is opposite the living room and has a sleek finish throughout, beautiful floorboards and marble countertops. The kitchen is not only beautiful, but is equipped for the best of chefs!
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/cavailles.php
MARGAUX
This beauty is a spectacular space that’s large and cozy at the same time. French windows, wood floors, views and, well, where else do you need to go? Top it off with a wrap around balcony that’s basically another room and it’s a slam dunk in every way.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/margaux.php
Margaux is a three bedroom, two bathroom where the magic of Paris dances across the rooftops, and the evening light sets the scene for the Eiffel Tower’s show after dark. The apartment is surrounded by the beauty and charm of the 7th arrondissement on the Left Bank. It’s here you’ll appreciate stepping out on a huge wrap-around balcony where to get a glorious view of the Eiffel Tower while dining al fresco, lingering over breakfast, or lounging on the comfortable sofa as the sun sets. Margaux has been fully remodeled and is a spacious apartment, measuring 1,210 square feet, located on the 7th floor of a historic and traditionally Parisian building.
MONTAGNY
It’s hard not to love the big open rooms and soothing palette of this magnificent flat. Combined with the chandeliers, crown molding, parquet floors, marble kitchen and bath and all the space you could ever need, it checks all the boxes. Oh, and that bathtub…
The magnificent Montagny is a welcoming two bedroom, two bath in the heart of the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower and Seine River. It’s an inviting home with room for six. The living room serves as a central gathering area with comfortable furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows with an incredible view of the Eiffel Tower. The living room features an open plan dining area that is both intimate and accommodating, with ample elbow room for family gatherings. The kitchen will delight the chefs in the family, with a bright and airy atmosphere and enough counter space for multiple cooks. With a gracious layout and touches of elegance around every corner, the Montagny truly feels like royal retreat.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/montagny.php
QUINCY
Such a sweet place it’s just my bonus choice for a small get together. Sometimes you only need a little something without too much fuss. And even though it’s petite, it has enough glamour and flavor to rival any of the above!
Quincy is a charming and oh-so-Parisian Left Bank apartment with beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower. Fully remodeled and decorated with unique Parisian touches throughout, this apartment is located on the top floor with great natural light and captivating views. The 560 square foot apartment has 2 bedrooms and can sleep 5 comfortably. Located in an elegant building on a lovely street near the Eiffel Tower and the Champs de Mars gardens, restaurants and cafes, bustling Parisian shopping along the rue du Commerce, a quiet, undiscovered park at the Place Dupleix, and the wonderful open-air market at Boulevard de Grenelle.
parisperfect.com/apartments-for-rent-in-paris/quincy.php
Well, that sums it up for this list although I could have added quite a few more. It was a lot of fun to put together.
I’ll keep you posted on plans for the spring if you’re interested. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask and if you’d like to get in touch with Paris Perfect directly, use the contact info below. Tell them I sent you for an additional discount! Enjoy the rest of your summer! xoc
Email:
reservations@parisperfect.com Call USA: 1-888-520-2087
PS If you liked the first image, check it out here for a more tête-à-tête soirée:
the paris apartment 