The Paris Postcard: Artisans, Architecture, and New Chapter for a Parisian Institution

le 17 octobre 2026

Bonjour mes chers amis. Your Paris Postcard is here, bringing you the latest happenings in the City of Light.

Paris has an interesting week ahead, with opportunities to discover the craftsmanship behind some of France’s most celebrated luxury houses, explore the city’s architectural heritage, and revisit a historic dining institution entering a new chapter.

Here are a few things to inspire you, whether you’re enjoying our favorite city or dreaming of it from afar.

Les Journées Particulières: Behind the Doors of LVMH

One of my favorite things about France is the importance placed on savoir-faire—the knowledge, patience, and skill passed from one generation to the next. This weekend, Les Journées Particulières offers a rare opportunity to discover that tradition from the inside.

LVMH opens the doors of selected locations belonging to its Maisons across 13 countries through October 18. Workshops, ateliers, historic residences, archives, and other normally inaccessible spaces invite visitors to discover the people and processes behind some of the world’s most recognizable luxury creations.

This year’s theme, Aux Racines du Rêve (At the Source of Dreams), explores the origins of creation, from the materials that inspire a piece to the artisans whose hands bring it to life.

For anyone interested in French luxury, fashion, design, or craftsmanship, this is a wonderful opportunity to look beyond the finished product and appreciate the expertise behind it. Some visits require advance reservations, while certain locations welcome visitors without one, subject to availability.

Journées nationales de l’architecture

Paris is a city best explored with your eyes open. Look up as you walk along a boulevard, notice the ironwork on a balcony, or pause to admire the proportions of a Haussmann building. Architecture is woven into everyday Parisian life, and this weekend offers an invitation to look a little more closely.

The Journées nationales de l’architecture, taking place across France from October 15–18, encourages the public to discover the buildings and urban spaces that shape their surroundings. The 2026 theme, Réhabiliter : bâtir l’avenir (Rehabilitating: Building the Future), focuses on adapting existing buildings for contemporary needs while respecting their architectural and historical character.

The program includes architectural walks, exhibitions, visits to construction sites and architecture studios, workshops, and other events. It is an appealing opportunity to learn more about the city’s built heritage and the thoughtful work involved in preserving it for the future.

I have always believed that part of the pleasure of spending time in Paris is learning to appreciate the details that might otherwise go unnoticed. This is an excellent excuse to take a different route through the city and see familiar streets with fresh eyes.

A New Chapter for Lucas Carton

For a truly memorable evening in Paris, consider a reservation at Lucas Carton, the historic restaurant overlooking Place de la Madeleine. Recently reopened under the direction of celebrated French chef Cyril Lignac, it offers the opportunity to experience one of Paris’s distinguished dining addresses as it begins a new chapter.

With its magnificent Art Nouveau interiors and distinguished culinary heritage, Lucas Carton is an appealing choice for a special occasion or an evening devoted to French gastronomy.

I have a small personal connection to Cyril Lignac’s culinary world, having taken a cooking class at one of his cooking schools several years ago.

MES COUPS DE CŒUR

This week’s favorites are all about the art of high-low dressing: pairing timeless luxury with accessible finds for a look that feels effortlessly chic. A Chanel-inspired tweed jacket from Zara brings a touch of Parisian polish, while a black cashmere turtleneck from Nordstrom adds understated luxury. Levi’s Ribcage wide-leg jeans keep the look relaxed and modern, and Celine sunglasses provide the perfect finishing touch.

It’s a combination that proves you don’t need a designer wardrobe to dress beautifully.

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#ICYMI

In case you missed it, last week’s post features my sweet friend Lamich Kirabo: An Artist Whose Work Explores Identity, Memory, and Cultural Heritage. If you’re in Paris in the next few weeks, be sure to stop by Gallery Amu to see her work in person.

For a bit of nostalgia, let’s step into the world of Cyril Lignac by revisiting my September 2011 post, Le Chardenoux. To this day, it’s one of my favorite restaurants in Paris – perfect for Sunday lunch.

As always, I hope this week’s postcard has inspired you to explore something new, whether it’s an exhibition that catches your eye, a performance you’d love to see, or a corner of Paris you haven’t yet discovered. There is always something new to experience in this city, and I look forward to sharing more of it with you next week. À bientôt, mes chers amis!