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How My Enchanting Paris Adventure Inspires My Interior Design Style -

Bonjour, fellow design aficionados!  As an Oregon travel enthusiast and interior design firm owner, my recent journey to the City of Light, Paris, was nothing short of a dream come true. Let me whisk you away on a captivating voyage through the cobblestone streets, picturesque cafes, and awe-inspiring architecture of this enchanting city, all while sharing how Paris has profoundly influenced my design and life aesthetic.


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Lovely Parisian scene near Notre-Dame Cathedral

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Ahh....the breathtaking Notre-Dame Cathedral!


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Hotel de la Marine and an installation for Paris Design week

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Me and my young, fun roommate Bradie, at a beautiful showroom on our French Center of Design tour


Parisian Charm Unveiled


Arriving in Paris felt like stepping into a living artwork adorned with timeless elegance and palpable history. The quaint boulangeries exuding the tantalizing scent of freshly baked croissants ( filled with chocolat ), the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral standing tall against the azure sky, and the charming alleyways lined with chic boutiques; each sight held its own allure, begging to be captured and cherished. Our tour was thoughtfully curated by IDS National, the Interior Design Society, of which I am a proud professional member. In collaboration with The French Center of Design, they beautifully orchestrated the experience, which was truly inspiring.


As we wandered through the ornate halls of the Louvre, marveled at the stained-glass wonder of Sainte-Chapelle, and strolled along the Seine River, and purused several scrumptious furniture showroooms in Saint Germaine, I was struck by the harmony of classical grandeur and modern sophistication that defines Parisian architecture and design. The fusion of old-world opulence with contemporary minimalism sparked a creative fire within me, igniting a fresh perspective on interior design. It's quite challenging capturing the experience accurately through words and photos.


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Interior Designers from all over the U.S. enjoying Parisian showrooms

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Rustic architectural interior juxtaposed with modern fixtures

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Shops near The Avenue des Champs-Élysées

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New friends wandering through a luscious Parisian garden.


Sainte Chapelle, Paris, Gothic Cathedral, stained glass, Paris tour, interior designers in paris
This gem-like Holy Chapel is Paris' most exquisite Gothic monument, completed in 1248.

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Saint Chapelle Gothic Cathedral

Saint Chapelle Cathedral, Gothic, Paris, Sunny skies, gothic architecture
Exterior of Saint Chapelle

Parisian Influence in Interior Design


Parisian design captivates with its effortless fusion of history and modernity, crafting spaces rich in charm, elegance, and unmistakable chic aesthetic. Inspired by the ornate iron balconies, the artistry of French tapestries, and the sumptuous fabrics that grace Parisian homes, I’ve come to see how my own life mirrors this blend. My past—my missteps, my triumphs, my choices—has shaped who I am today. Just like in design, I have the power to take lessons from my history and infuse them with a fresh perspective, creating a new way of living that reflects both where I’ve been and where I want to go. My first trip to Paris came when I was 38. With three girls at home, my husband stayed back so I could experience Europe with my sisters and mother—a gift I treasure deeply. It felt like stepping into a new chapter, experiencing the magic of Paris later in life, with a fresh perspective on the richness and abundance of the life God has blessed me with. The city’s beauty and timelessness felt even more profound in that moment, offering a renewed sense of gratitude.



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Random Paris Cafe


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Scrumptious Schumacher Fabric showroom in Saint Germain


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The French do design right. This pastry shop is underneath the Louvre Museum, in the Carrousel du Louvre


A Symphony of Style and Elegance


The soft pastel hues reminiscent of Parisian sunsets, the ornate gold accents that mirror the grandeur of Versailles, and the intricate patterns echoing the charm of Montmartre; each element holds the essence of Paris within its design.When I approach my clients' projects, I do so with the same authentic integrity that defines Paris itself. It’s not just about creating beautiful spaces—it’s about capturing the essence of what makes Paris so timeless. The romance, the attention to detail, the effortless blend of history and modern elegance. That spirit infuses every design choice I make, ensuring that your home reflects a deep sense of character and sophistication, while still feeling personal and livable. Just like Paris, it’s about creating something enduring, meaningful, and uniquely yours.





Art, tulip, bouquet of tulips, Jeff Koons, Paris, Petit Palais Paris, garden art, colorful sculpture
Bouquet of tulips, artist Jeff Koons, outside Petit Palais





Carpe Diem- Seize the day!

As the French and English say, carpe diem—why wait? Let’s make the most of today and start transforming your home! I am excited to help you create a home that inspires and energizes you every day! Life’s too short to wait—let’s dive into redesigning your space now while my inspiration is fresh and ideas are overflowing. Reach out, and let’s bring your dream home to life!




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The beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg; Medici fountain

6件のコメント


Karen Hawley
Karen Hawley
2024年10月17日

Looks like enough inspiration for a lifetime! You did a beautiful job putting it all into words. Wishing I could have tagged along! Thanks for sharing your trip of a lifetime!

いいね!

jessica
2024年10月16日

What a beautiful blog post. Your photos are fab. I love how you describe the comparison of design to life. Thank you for sharing.

いいね!
jshocking
2024年10月17日
返信先

Thank you Jessica!! There are ample metaphors in design that mimic life.

いいね!

aveykay
2024年10月16日

Wish I could have snuck in your suitcase and came with you! So much beauty, I can only imagine the inspiration it is going to give you for your next projects!

いいね!
jshocking
2024年10月17日
返信先

Yes Avey! We would have a beautiful time there together. Your next season in life will hopefully take you to Paris my friend.

いいね!

cindysmith193
2024年10月14日

Thank you for sharing from your Parisian experiences Sharon - nothing short of amazing and transformative!! Can’t wait to see the influence in your next projects, your attention to detail and the results you bring to your clients are outstanding. As is this blog post. Bravo!

いいね!
Testimonials

"My husband and I were so fortunate to have Sharon Hocking as our interior designer.  I can't thank her enough for turning our ugly bathroom into a thing of beauty!"

~ Esther, Portland, OR

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