Paris: Made by Hand: 50 Shops Where Decorators and Stylists Source the Chic & Unique

There’s a new trend among the young designers and decorators of Paris: an embracing of an aesthetic called fait main. Literally, this means “made by hand,” but in this case it includes not only new items fashioned by hand but vintage objects and found objects that are valued as they are, or that may have been reworked. What unites them is the “handprint” of a talented creator.
Stylist Pia Jane Bijkerk has discovered more than fifty places–organized into walks–that embody this style. Some are shops owned by professional chineurs, people who hunt out objects sought after by interior decorators, architects, and stylists. Other places aren’t really shops but primarily studios, where, if you stop by, you can purchase something directly from the artist. You’ll find a designer who makes glass jewelry; a couturier who sells fabric remainders, a few garments, and handwoven scarves; one boutique set up like a home, where reworked vintage housewares are displayed. Another place offers hand-knit baby clothes, another reworked antique French linens.

Also included are nearby cafés, bakeries, cheese shops, and tearooms with artisanal foods that reflect the spirit of “made by hand.” This is a book for all lovers of design and decorating.

Pia Jane Bijkerk is an Australian stylist specializing in still life, food, interiors, and lifestyle imagery. She has a special interest in forecasting design trends. She lives in Amsterdam and Paris, and works internationally with renowned photographers for magazines and advertising agencies. Clients include Vogue Entertaining & Travel, GQ, Real Simple, Marie Claire, and Saatchi & Saatchi. Her work can be seen at piajanebijkerk.com.