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--01 How is Paris nowadays?

Paris is always Paris.A hub of creativity and expression mixed with heritage, tradition and a good dose of attitude.It is probably the city in Europe (maybe even the world) that creates the most impact on today’s culture, especially in fashion. This is of course due to the big brands based here, but even more thanks to its energy and constant change.

--02 Where is your happy place/sanctuary in Paris and why?

This is surprisingly a hard question.Living here for almost 11 years you’d think I do have a favorite spot, but since Paris is in this constant search for « the new cool » many places open and close (or just completely change) within very short times. One of my favorite spots was Hotel Bourbon, the hotel-themed club in the 10th arrondissement, ex Pompom (for those who remember). But since covid it got shut down for a couple of years, then reopened but completely changed and recently shut down again.Generally I love the 10ème, and especially its Faubourg Saint Denis neighborhood, because it is just the opposite of Emily’s Paris but so representative of (my) real Paris: a melting pot of cultures filled with beauty and dirtiness, luxury and poverty, work and nightlife.

--03 What do you think is the most interesting creative scene in the city right now?

One of the most interesting creative projects of the past year in Paris has been 3537. The soon-to-be Dover Street Market Paris has hosted (as part of their agreement with the city) a different exhibition or event almost every week. From big brands and established organizations, to underground collectives and unknown artists, it seemed like almost anyone could have a chance of exhibiting and having their work seen. I would go by every weekend to check what’s new. Sometimes the work was just amazing and sometimes quite bad, but it was always exciting to discover.

--04 What are 3 places in Paris (bars, clubs, restaurants, stores...) you would bring a friend visiting you to?

Hotel Grand Amour for drinks (one of the very few places to make a decent Negroni)

Kodawari and Waly-Fay for food (sorry, not a huge fan of French cuisine)

Musée du Quai Branly (for the building and often interesting temporary exhibitions)

--05 What is something you believe Paris is currently missing?

The sea. And usually the sun, but not today