Frenchy Fancy: Art and Interior Design in Conversation

1. Can you tell us a bit about your background? How did your passion for interior design develop, and what inspired you to launch your blog Frenchy Fancy back in 2012?

Celine: I grew up in a creative household—my mother is an artist, and she passed on her love for all things beautiful. Our home was always filled with things to touch, admire, and combine: books, vintage finds, unique materials… a sensory world that sparked my imagination. My path was a little unconventional. I started out studying literature at university, then completed a BTS in Real Estate. That's when I realized it wasn't property I was passionate about—it was interior design. The only class that truly captivated me was “Building Techniques"!

So I decided to pursue a three-year design course, where I studied art history, decorative painting, drawing, and material techniques. Those were some of the best years of my life. A few months before graduating, my boyfriend (now husband) suggested I start a blog to share everything that was inspiring me during my studies. At the time, I didn't see the point—but today, that blog is an integral part of my career as a designer.

2. How would you describe your signature style as an interior designer? What elements or principles do you always try to incorporate into your projects?

Céline: It's not really a signature style, but I place great importance on timelessness. I choose materials and shapes that will remain relevant for many years, independent of fleeting trends. I like to add details that create contrast and infuse a space with a certain personality. Finally, functionality always takes precedence over aesthetics, even if it's sometimes challenging.

3. What is your typical process when working on a new interior design project? How do you balance creativity and functionality?

Céline : Every project begins with lengthy discussions with my clients. I need to understand who the people who will be living in this space are, their habits, their desires, their constraints… This is truly the foundation for creating an interior that reflects them, and it will inevitably influence my approach to the project.

Next, I undertake a thorough analysis of the existing space: the light, the flow, the dimensions, the architecture. It's from this foundation that the initial ideas take shape. For me, a beautiful interior is useless if it isn't pleasant to live in every day. Therefore, I pay close attention to the choice of materials, shapes, and the fluidity of the spaces… Creativity, however, lies in the details: an unexpected color, an antique piece of furniture, well-designed lighting, an eye-catching pattern.

Then, I search for mood boards, color palettes, and material samples to visually validate our discussions and ensure I'm on the right track. It's truly a collaborative process; we work hand in hand. I always feel like I'm illustrating my clients' desires! Most often, I only offer mood boards: they are rich and allow you to easily visualize the space.

4. Your blog is a much-appreciated source of inspiration and advice. How has sharing your work and ideas online influenced your career?

Céline : Originally, it was almost a journal during my studies, a way to share my inspirations, discoveries, and desires. I never imagined for a second that it would have such an impact! Over time, it has become a showcase and a real connection with a loyal, curious, and engaged community. It has allowed me to share my world, receive project requests, and also attract the attention of brands and partners with whom I collaborate today.

This online sharing also pushes me to constantly reinvent myself, to stay curious, to experiment, to learn… And above all, it has given me true freedom in how I practice this profession.

5. How do you see the complementarity between art and interior decoration in a living space?

Céline : Art is an integral part of interior design. A beautiful selection of artworks can quickly make all the difference! It allows you to bring personality and character to a space, but also to reveal certain facets of the people who live there.

"I never imagined that a simple logbook would become such an essential tool in my career."

6. What future do you see for Frenchy Fancy? Are there any upcoming projects that excite you or new directions you would like to explore?

Céline : Frenchy Fancy was born over 10 years ago. I never would have imagined it would still resonate with so many people today. I hope it has many more successful years ahead! Among my upcoming projects, perhaps I'll consider inviting passionate contributors to enrich it even further. But it's a difficult decision to make, as it remains my very first creation…

Why not also write a book? I've been thinking about it since my feature in "Intérieurs de blogueurs déco" (Home Decor Bloggers' Interiors) in 2022. Or design a collection of accessories or furniture in collaboration with a brand. Only time will tell!

Currently, there's also this major personal project involving the construction of our house, which I'm documenting step by step. It's a real testing ground. In short, ideas are plentiful – always with the desire to share and inspire!

Their favorite artworks