French designer homes

What are the elements of good design? Timelessness, exceptional functionality, the wonderful interplay of colors, and larger-than-life attributes come to mind. One race that has been known all over the world for their outlandish, marvelous designs is the French. One just has to watch designer movies such as the ultra chic The Devil Wears Prada and stylish episodes of Sex & The City to admire the work of French design gurus.

But that is the world of high-class fashion. When it comes to designer homes, can the French be far behind? Actually, they’re pretty much up there in front of home design, and a visit to the regal enclave of Châteaux de Paris at South Forbes Golf City will confirm this conclusion.

Three modern French chateaus, all fully interior-decorated, will showcase the French prowess in home design. All represent design elements of a French era. The classical Chambord will feature interiors reminiscent of traditional Parisian elements. Fontainebleau will showcase modern furnishings and straight lines, while the contemporary Chantilly will carry ultra sleek furnishings that bring to mind French ingénue Philippe Starck.

The Chambord’s classical rendition moves away from heavy-handed Baroque decorations. The result is a modern interpretation of the classics that still has strong ties to tradition and style. It brings sophistication and gracious living of the French Renaissance refined to today’s more subtle and restrained tastes.

Gone are the brocades that make the interiors seem dark and heavy but the color scheme kept the gold and burgundy of traditional French chateaus. The furniture selection was inspired by silhouettes of Louis XIV chairs but were updated and streamlined design with contemporary fabrics. Art pieces are framed in silver gilded frames and the topiary brings the spirit of French gardens inside the house. With just the right amount of richness, the house maintains the traditional feel while still keeping the home in the 21st century.

Fontainebleau retains the traditional Baroque forms in the exteriors, but its interiors reflect more modern tastes. Its monochromatic white-on-white scheme defines "modern."

Straight lines and solid colors dominate the overall design. Instead of the ornate carvings and brass or wooden finery that defines classical French design, chrome, glass, and steel are the preferred elements. Their cool demeanor blends well with the sleek and subtle fabrics to set a regal yet subdued tone.

Meanwhile, the Chantilly’s interiors are neo-classical. French windows in the living room and dining room give a refreshing view of lush greenery and let in abundant sunlight. The soothing mint color is repeated in the curtains and furniture covers.

The sleek line of the furnishings, which call to mind the stylized, streamlined creations of French ingénue Philippe Starck, are conspicuous in the chair spines and shiny modern appliances and fixtures of the kitchen. Finally, the bedroom itself is one cozy blend of old and new, with a four-poster bed dominating and complementing simple racks and cabinets like a king over his advisers.

Interesting, isn’t it, to finally bring French design today to Philippine shores? To find out which of these three 21st century chateaus will be a sure fit to your design sensibilities and personality, do set a visit to Châteaux de Paris’ Metro Sta. Rosa site by simply calling 635-7777 or 631-8855 or visiting www.southforbes.com.