The world of interior design is a fascinating realm, and the rise of super-custom interiors is a trend that is truly captivating. In this article, I'll delve into the story of Héléna Monnet-Plat, a French interior designer who has transformed a modern bastide into a personal sanctuary filled with her own creations. This is not just a home; it's a testament to the power of individual expression and a manifesto for designing with soul.
A Personal Journey
Héléna Monnet-Plat's journey into interior design is a deeply personal one. She describes her approach as instinctive, driven by a desire to create a space that reflects her own identity. "I am an interior decorator before being an interior architect," she says. "I designed almost everything in this villa because I wanted it to reflect who I am." This is a key aspect of the trend towards super-custom interiors: it's about creating spaces that are unique and autobiographical.
A Modern Bastide Transformed
The house Héléna and her husband renovated was originally built in the 1980s and lacked charm. "We renovated and extended it, incorporating key features of a traditional Provençal bastide to give it both character and soul," she explains. This transformation process is a crucial part of the story, as it showcases the designer's ability to take a blank canvas and create something truly special. The couple worked together, with Héléna focusing on interior layouts, custom joinery, and decoration, while her husband handled the structural aspects and architectural vision.
A Living Room to Inspire
The centerpiece of the home is undoubtedly the modern living room, with its eight-meter-high arched window that floods the space with light. Soft rugs cover hard floors, and zesty fabrics line built-in banquettes, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Héléna's intention was to blend comfort with artistic works, and the result is a room that feels both artistic and inviting.
A Manifesto for Design
Héléna's approach to design is a manifesto in itself. She encourages her clients to forget the photos they've seen on social media and instead design from the heart. "It is only through the uniqueness of the people who live in a home that design with true soul can be created," she says. This philosophy is evident throughout the home, where every element is carefully chosen to reflect the owner's personality and lifestyle.
Conclusion
The rise of super-custom interiors is a trend that allows designers to express their creativity and individuality. Héléna Monnet-Plat's home is a testament to the power of this approach, showcasing how a designer's personal desires and instincts can result in a space that is both unique and deeply meaningful. It's a reminder that in the world of design, the heart of the creator is what truly brings a space to life.
