Book release: Timothy Corrigan’s ode to living and decorating French style

Di LISA KLEIN

Timothy Corrigan certainly knows a thing or two about French homes.

The interior designer has lived in France part time for decades and has renovated numerous historic properties, both Parisian city dwellings and sprawling country estates.

His new book, At Home in France: Inspiration and Style in Town and Country, released last month and his third with Rizzoli, is both a love letter to his adopted home and a detailed account of his latest personal projects: a 19th-century apartment in Paris and an 18th-century château in the Loire Valley.

In addition to taking readers along on his renovation and decorating journey, Mr. Corrigan gives expert advice on the French je ne sais quoi, from a guide to Paris’s arrondissements and house museums to hunting for treasures at his “mecca,” the city’s famed flea market, to irreverent ways to entertain and pamper weekend guests.

Below, Mr. Corrigan talks the French lifestyle, preserving history and his newly completed apartment and château, La Chevallerie, with LPI.

The study and dining room in Mr. Corrigan’s Paris apartment. Images courtesy of Rizzoli
When you moved to Paris in the 1980s, you thought it would be temporary but couldn’t stay away. What was it that made you fall in love?

History and culture are such a core part of the DNA of the French identity. You cannot go a day without being influenced by it.

It’s no secret that the French have that innate sense of style. How would you describe it?

France was the cultural capital of the world from the 17th to 19th centuries, so it’s only natural that there is a residual sense of confidence in their sense of style and taste.

Mr. Corrigan’s living room in Paris. Image courtesy of Rizzoli
Your new book is all about the French lifestyle, both in the city and the countryside. In what ways does that lifestyle differ in each?

Paris is a place of activity, both physical and of the mind, where the country allows you to decompress and appreciate both the simplicity and complexity of nature.

When it comes to décor, how do you approach your city and country homes differently?

Because the lifestyle in the city is so active, I consciously chose to create an atmosphere that is soothing and calm. This is seen through the muted color palette and quieter fabrics with less bold patterns.

In the country, I wanted to bring the sense of nature indoors, so I used brighter, clearer colors and fabrics with fun, playful patterns.

A view of La Chevallerie and Mr. Corrigan’s sheep and one of the chateau’s sitting rooms. Images courtesy of Rizzoli
All of your French homes have been historic properties of varying ages, and you have such an appreciation for architecture of the past. Why does that appeal to you so much?

I love the process of restoring these wonderful old structures and gently renovating them for the needs of today. It feeds my soul and spurs my creative juices.

The French press has referred to me as “The Château Whisperer” for my understanding of French castles and how to make them come alive in the 21st century.

As the French architect Le Corbusier said, “He who understands history knows how to find continuity between that which was, that which is and that which will be.” I think it’s very true as we look forward in all areas of life.

In the book, you talk about how exciting it was the first time you went shopping for furniture and décor in Paris. What are you able to find there that just isn’t the same elsewhere?

I love the hunt when I’m looking for something specific but, more often than not, I go to the Paris flea market without an agenda, just hoping to find something special that catches my attention.

The items are unique and have a sense of history, with details that are hard to find in new furniture. Unfortunately, even at the Paris flea market, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find unique and special items.

The chateau’s grand entry features Mr. Corrigan’s portrait collection. Image courtesy of Rizzoli
What is your favorite thing to do during your time in the French countryside?

I love having friends come for a long weekend. It provides an opportunity to disconnect from the distractions of our busy lives, take walks and bike rides, enjoy nature, and have long conversations in the salons and over meals.

You’re a self-proclaimed “château-holic” and have renovated and sold several country homes. Is La Chevallerie different?

When it comes to the château, my search has ended. Like Goldilocks, I have found the one that is just right.