Hélène Darroze, renowned on Top Chef as a judge and a three-star chef, is not just a master of culinary excellence but also a passionate interior designer. She lives in a chic Parisian neighborhood, balancing her time amongst family, friends, her three Parisian restaurants, and her fervor for interior design.
A Life in Paris
Darroze resides in the Luxembourg neighborhood in her spacious Haussmann-style apartment which she moved into back in 2009. Along with her two daughters, she shares her apartment with her adorable cat, Ciboulette, and a playful dog named Fluffy. The apartment overlooks a quiet street and is drenched with natural light.
Cooking in Style
The Paris apartment is decked out with designer pieces, all meticulously chosen by Darroze herself. The aim – to create a family-friendly space where she could experiment with her culinary creations and host relatives. The apartment features an old fireplace, original moldings, and polished parquet flooring, giving it a classic Parisian charm.
Infusing Color
Despite the white walls, the apartment is anything but bland. The furnishings are colorful, with rugs and curtains in shades of red and purple adding vibrancy to the rooms. The living room, which doubles as a dining room and an office, is Darroze's favorite space in the apartment. The room is filled with books, art photographs, and fresh flowers, adding a touch of personal flair to the decor.
A Successful Chef
Darroze's prowess in the kitchen is well-recognized. She has been honored as the world's best female chef multiple times. Her love for cooking is not confined to her Paris apartment. She currently owns three Parisian establishments: Marsan, JÒIA, and JÒIA Bun.
Global Gastronomy
Since 1999, Darroze has successfully opened seven gastronomic establishments worldwide, all reflecting her impeccable taste in design. Every detail, from the architecture to the interior design, is carefully curated. For instance, at her London restaurant, The Connaught, renowned architect India Madhavi was engaged for the design. In 2018, Patrice Gardera was appointed to design the decor of the Parisian bistro JÒIA, ensuring a friendly atmosphere that complements the cuisine, which is inspired by Darroze's family heritage.