Cover An interior design project of a duplex penthouse in Chelsea, New York Photo: Stephan Julliard

The Paris-based interior designer Jean-Louis Deniot delves into the inspiration behind his newest book release and how he creates stunning abodes around the world

A renowned name in the world of architecture and interior design, Jean-Louis Deniot delights with his signature French-inflected contemporary aesthetics that have taken centre stage in luxury properties worldwide. Helming his practice for the last 20 years, Deniot has naturally become a firm believer in marrying harmony together with well-being in the spaces that he has designed.

To this end, Deniot notes fondly that his design narrative is utterly simple: “My main motivation is beauty and osmosis and to have a human being be in the middle of that fantasy. But what I create is real, my designs can take on so many different shades and colours to deliver something quite exalting. A result that transports you.”

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Above Parisian interior designer Jean-Louis Deniot Photo: Courtesy
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Above Jean-Louis Deniot’s latest book, Destinations, recounts 18 of his never-before-published architecture and interior design projects across the globe from California to Bangkok Photo: Courtesy of Rizzoli

Beyond translating dream-like ideas to life, the creative visionary’s latest venture showcases once again his true finesse in delivering a refreshing take on French style to beautiful interiors around the world. Titled Destinations, the Rizzoli-published book chronicles a glossy peek at his spectacular portfolio, as represented in 18 homes that he designed across the globe; these include projects in places as varied as Miami and Corsica to Bangkok and New Delhi.

“I’ve been working abroad for over 15 years now, and it was finally time to put out a book to reflect that,” shares Deniot, who revels in the diversity of his projects and the locales that they are situated in. “I love Asia’s flamboyance and rich culture, which keeps developing faster than the speed of light. I consider it one of the lands of opportunity. There is a high demand and appreciation for us in Asia. Depending on where you go, it’s always a completely different working experience, be it in Hong Kong, Saigon, Bangkok, or Taiwan.”

Ahead, we ask Jean-Louis Deniot to share more about his career thus far, while gathering tips on how to craft a beautiful interior.

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Above Jean-Louis Deniot’s office space in Quai d’Orsay, Paris Photo: Stephan Julliard

Coming from Paris, a city widely associated with fashion and its storied history with decorative arts, how do you interpret these influences in the spaces you design?

Jean-Louis Deniot (JD) In France, it’s a lifestyle you’re born into because you grow up surrounded by all sorts of influences—fashion, leather goods, cuisine, perfume, and decorative arts. These formative moments we become exposed to help foster a personal opinion and cultivate the French taste. Visits to great museums such as the Musée des Arts Décoratifs with your grandparents or vacations to family homes throughout the country can also contribute to developing this appreciation.

Today, I could design a house elaborate as would a couturier when crafting a new collection. What makes the spaces I design uniquely distinctive with a Parisian flair is developing a result that is forever timeless and chic. The sky is the limit because you can reference anything you want from history and still be creative.

How has decorating homes around the world shaped your growth and identity as an interior designer?

JD Though I’m born in Paris, I’m really thankful for my career path which has shaped me as a citizen of the world. It has also made me proud of my French heritage since my services continue to be cherished worldwide.

In my travels, I've encountered many nationalities and have discovered the rich beauty in the variations of colour and shapes. Embracing all my neighbours abroad has made me realise how life can be made colourful; even the littlest nuances between each nationality, their behaviours, and expectations. My international career has only made me more open-minded, eclectic, and curious and from what I know, there is still so much more to come.

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Above Interiors of a project in Upper East Side, New York feature fluted plaster walls and a bespoke Diurne rug Photo: Stephan Julliard
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Above The living room of a penthouse in South Beach, Miami Photo: Stephan Julliard

How do you find the balance between creating excitement while celebrating the architectural integrity of homes?

JD My design choices are mostly instinctive, and I don’t even try to explain, question or doubt. In truth, I don’t hold anything back, follow my gut and give myself the freedom of expression to just go for it. No matter what I do, my goal is to always deliver something adequate, makes sense, withholds the space of time and that will be recognisable. That’s how I achieve the balance. It’s a long journey, but I know that what I’m building is not like many houses out there.

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Above A gold engraved stairwell in an apartment located in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit neighbourhood Photo: Stephan Julliard

What has been the most exciting project that you’ve worked on to date?

JD For me, the most exciting project is always the next one, what’s coming. There are no big or small projects, each of them has the same level of importance. Like a single grain of sand that might seem small or unassuming, the impact of each project can similarly be enormous.

When it comes to style and design, what is your best-kept secret?

JD Not incorporating too many colours. Adopting a camaïeu approach keeps a colour scheme under control, so nothing clashes. Instead, the limited colour range offers room to play with the most as it acts as a foundation to design an exciting space with strong pieces.

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Above A cosy alcove of an estate in Porto Vecchio, Corsica Photo: Stephan Julliard
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Above Natural materials and the incorporation of locally-sourced lauze stone lends a rustic yet muted tone to the dining space Photo: Stephan Julliard

What’s a colour that you love and why?

JD I love Eau de Nile or Water of the Nile. It’s this fresh yet optimistic mix of blue and green, which for me resembles the sky and spring water.

Is there a material you’ll never tire of using?

JD Probably a touch of gold. It reminds me of sunlight, and who could ever get tired of sunlight?

What is the essence of a thoughtful and beautiful home?

JD It’s for the owner to feel that it’s their own home and no one else’s. It’s for family and friends to feel instantly welcome and instantly comfortable. Fix it once and keep it forever, a thoughtful and beautiful home doesn’t act with any trend. It’s timeless.

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