French Design
Art Deco forever
Since the 1920s, French design has inspired generations of designers and design lovers. French designers have left a lasting mark on international design history and are known for elegance, curved forms and close attention to detail.
From Art Deco and industrial design to vintage style, French design is remarkably varied, combining craft traditions with innovative ideas.
Art Deco first emerged in France in the 1920s before spreading around the world. The name comes from "arts décoratifs" and describes an approach that combines decorative elements with a modern visual language.
Designers such as Eileen Gray played a key role in shaping this era. Her designs combine elegance, function and timeless style. The Bibendum leather armchair, in particular, remains one of the best-known designs of the period.
Le Corbusier is also one of the most important figures in modern design history. With tubular steel furniture such as the LC1, LC2 and the LC4 chaise longue, he developed new ideas about contemporary living.
A nostalgia for form
In the 1950s, French design continued to evolve, combining traditional craftsmanship with new design ideas. While other countries had already established highly industrialised design processes, a new generation of French designers emerged who brought elegance and function together.
Alongside Jean Prouvé, Philippe Starck is one of the most important names. His designs combine emotional appeal with affordability and have made French design known around the world.
With numerous international awards, exhibitions and works in major museum collections, Philippe Starck is one of the most influential designers working today.
Modern French design
Shaped by designers such as Serge Mouille, Le Corbusier and Philippe Starck, French design developed into a style defined by soft forms, curved lines and playful elegance.
Designers such as Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, Inga Sempé and Marc Sadler continue this tradition, combining modern function with a distinctive French lightness.
French brands such as Hartô, Fermob and Red Edition offer furniture with elegant vintage charm, colourful accents and timeless design. Companies such as Tolix, meanwhile, represent the industrial side of French design with their iconic metal furniture.
Elegance between tradition and modernity
French style moves between Art Deco, vintage and industrial design. Its strength lies in combining history, craftsmanship and contemporary design, a balance that continues to give French design international appeal.
