A celebration of art, culture and craftsmanship

In January, during Paris Déco Off, when the City of Lights becomes a living gallery of design, craftsmanship and creative enconters, Galerie La Forest Divonne transformed into a Pop-Up Showroom, hosting Watts 1874 for the annual presentation of wallcovering and luxury textiles new collections. These four days of exhibition brought together artisans, designers and makers whose work reflects both heritage and contemporary atmosphere, aligned with Watts1874 vision to celebrate the enduring beauty of fine interiors.

At the heart of the space was a curated conversation between texture, light and form. Each contributor brought a distinctive voice, yet the overall composition felt effortlessly
harmonious. The setting invited visitors to slow down, observe and experience how
exceptional craftsmanship elevates everyday living into something poetic. An invitation to "rêverie".

At the entrance, one of the defining features of the installation was the upholstery work by Phelippeau Tapissier. A curtain directly inspired by a theatre decor. Known for meticulous technique and an intuitive understanding of fabric and structure, the atelier’s contribution anchored the exhibition in traditional savoir-faire. Their work on seating and soft furnishings revealed the invisible architecture behind true luxury, where every detail matters. This quiet yet highly recognised mastery gave depth and longevity to some of the pieces on display, such as an armchair.

Sculptural elements played a central role in shaping the atmosphere. On the window display outside, directly on the rue des Beaux-Arts, the luminous and iconic sculpture Panther of Daum represented a symbol of elegance and introduced a sense of movement, lightness and enigmatic tranquility, catching reflections throughout the day. Inside, the mirror from Simpsons London added architectural rhythm, expanding the space with endless reflections, while reinforcing an elegant symmetry.

Sculptural design was also defined in a striking console and a horse sculpture, both from
Watts1874 long-time partner Eccotrading Design, also based in Chelsea Design Centre, in London. Ideally place in front of Watts1874 most iconic wallpapers, with their silhouettes and refined finishes, these pieces of Art served as focal points, drawing the eye and grounding the global composition.

Comfort and refinement found their perfect balance in the giant sofa by Jonathan Sainsbury. Its voluptuous lines, generous proportions, and thoughtful upholstery, covered with Mansfield Venetian Red fabric, embodied contemporary luxury and was listed as a favourite by internationally acclaimed designer Juan Pablo Molyneux.

Lighting, always essential in shaping mood, was masterfully addressed by Sophia Elliott, a decorative artist specialising in bespoke furnitures, with a studio based in Sussex. The
lamps introduced a colourfull glow and hand-painted touch, highlighting textures and contours while creating intimate warming atmosphere. Their presence emphasised the importance of light as both a functional and emotional element in interior design.

Completing the composition, the rugs by Jaipur Rugs brought richness and grounding to the space. Their intricate craftsmanship and tactile beauty connected the display to global traditions of weaving and handwork. Underfoot, they offered comfort, color and continuity, uniting the various elements into a cohesive whole.

Together, these collaborators created more than an exhibition, they crafted an atmosphere for one of the most inspiring experience during Paris Déco Off. The presentation at Galerie La Forest Divonne reflected Watts1874’s commitment to celebrating authentic craftsmanship, meaningful partnerships and timeless elegance in modern design. It was a reminder that the most beautiful interiors came together from the right balance between noble materials and makers’ talent and creativity, past and present, traditional artistry and modern textures.

Echoing this spirit of celebration of art, culture and craftsmanship, the open-air photography exhibition Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, offered a powerful visual extension of the experience. Curated by Yellow Korner, one striking large-format image focused on the artisans of Maison Phelippeau Tapissier at work, capturing their hands gesture with precision. Aligned with the theme “Behind the Scenes,” the photograph revealed the poetry and precision of creative process, between patience and concentration. Displayed right in front of iconic café "Les Deux Magots", it transformed craftsmanship into a public spectacle, inviting visitors and passersby into the intimate world of upholstery and artisanal creation. More than a portrait of technique, the image became a tribute to the invisible hand behind luxury textiles and interiors, reinforcing Paris Déco Off’s commitment to honouring the makers, their traditions and their enduring relevance in contemporary design culture.

An inspiring journey to discover outstanding craftsmanship and creative excellence alongside the latest decor trends, at the heart of the vibrant area of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Written by Laure de Dampierre edited by Louisa Wates