When I think of the Art of Décor, a few names come to mind; such as Henri Samuel. His eclectic style strikes me as one that was so modern, yet classic and timeless. So much so, that even today it still seems up to date. The taste level, warmth, and lack of monotony in his interiors, is unsurpassed.
The 70’s were some of the biggest years in the world of décor. Since the 18th century, France was the front-runner for the world of interiors. However during the 70’s the industrialization, the New World, the search for cheaper production prices, and the popularity of the new designer pieces, France started lagging behind Germany, Great Britain, Italy, and the US as the artistic leader. This is when Henri Samuel, and other extremely talented French designers found the opportunity to do something new. They were hired privately, and in an economically unstable time, their clients chose to invest their money in pieces that would keep their value due to their workmanship, and uniqueness; A Ming vase, Art Deco furniture, or a Vasarely canvas. Materials like fine wood find once again their nobility.
Henri Samuel trained at Maison Jansen, who was responsible for exporting this French taste all over the world. His interiors were some of the first to mix all of the periods. An abstract painting next to a Louis the XVI desk. A Richard Lindner next to an Empire Console, a Giacometti table next to a pair of Neo Classical chairs. He had the ability to mix in the contemporary pieces to modernize an otherwise stuffy interior.
Model Nico posing in Henri Samuel's hotel particulier in Paris.
Model posing in Henri Samuel's interior.
Henri Samuel's bedroom in his hotel particulier.
Living room
Living room 2
