13 Tips from Jean-Louis Deniot for Young Designers

The world of design is ever-changing, demanding, and multifaceted. The path to success is not straightforward or simple. How to stand out in this world? How to introduce yourself so that people listen? The renowned French decorator Jean-Louis Deniot generously shares his advice and has lectured in Moscow multiple times. We've collected the best quotes from this professional.

Jean-Louis Deniot, decorator. Graduate of the Parisian École Camondo, one of the most famous decorators in the world. Jean-Louis works on both interior design projects for mansions and furniture and lighting design.

1. How to introduce yourself in your profession?
"It's very important to work on personal projects with maximum dedication. Don't copy famous designers – show your individuality. Trust your taste and views. Be who you are. This is the only way to rise above the crowd and become noticeable."

Console Pernas. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for Jean de Merry

2. How to start getting published?
To reach people, you need to publish. No client? Create a project of your own apartment. Decorative items can be borrowed "on loan." And don't despair if after the first publication no one calls you back. It's normal. Just start a new project.

Dining room in the Parisian apartment of the decorator. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot

3. How to get a project?
Don't wait for people to come to you. Help yourself – knock on doors. You will succeed.

Ceiling light Helios. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for Pouenat Ferronnier

4. Where to start a project?
Visit the site. Observe how light falls, feel the atmosphere of the place, absorb the smells – your imagination will begin to work. Visually travel through the entire house, imagine what it will look like. Dream and remember: the impossible is possible.

Kitchen in a Chicago apartment. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot

5. Where to find inspiration?
Inspiration begins with curiosity. Be curious in a good sense of the word. New sensations and experiences come from books, music, paintings. Also good sources of inspiration are the location where the project is located, the client, and everything that currently concerns you.

Sofa Almandine. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for Baker Furniture

6. What to focus on when working on a project?
Concepts. Developing them is more complex than executing the project. The latter is a technical matter. Just don't forget about space architecture: every square centimeter of the planned area matters. Give children’s rooms as much attention as the hallway or living room. Pay attention to every stage of the project.

Bedroom in a Parisian apartment on Rue de L'Universite. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot

7. How to build relationships with a client?
Always keep the client in mind. A project is a collaboration.

Chair Susannah. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for George Smith

8. What to do in a conflict situation?
If the client insists on their version, which contradicts your proposal, go to the showroom. Choose items you like there, bring them to the site, decorate the interior as you see fit, and take photos.

After the shoot, return all items to the showroom, place the client's items back in their spots. Show the client the photos. Be sure, they will have a therapeutic effect. If the miracle doesn't happen and the client continues to insist, remember: the right of choice remains with the homeowner. In the end, he has to live in it.

Tips from Jean-Louis Deniot

9. Where to find striking items for decoration?
Anywhere: on sale, in a store, at a flea market. Price doesn't matter. The key is to find an unconventional solution and make the item more luxurious than it actually is.

Chair Kokoon Club Chair Mongolian. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for Marc de Berry

10. What are 'star items'? "Star items" are unusual, but not the most expensive.

11. What items define the mood?
Lighting, carpets, art. Leave plenty of free space on walls – art deserves attention. But remember, when many pieces of art gather in one place, it looks aggressive.

Chair Caroline. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for George Smith

12. How to work within a budget?
Try to achieve maximum results within the budget. Budgets are usually limited. Make an item more luxurious than it actually is. Alongside expensive items, you can use inexpensive ones. You just need to properly combine them in one project. It's like in cinema: someone has the leading role, and others are in the crowd.

Bedroom designed by Jean-Louis Deniot

13. How to build relationships in a team?
To make people work well, they need to live a normal life and be happy. Crazy nights in the office and rush jobs must be avoided. We spend a lot of time at work, and communicate closely, so a healthy, friendly atmosphere is necessary. Learn to create it and fear spoiling it. Good luck!

Console Hexagono. Design: Jean-Louis Deniot for Jean de Merry

Have a small apartment? Read Jean-Louis Deniot's tips on how to decorate it.