Paris Update What’s New in Paris
NOSTALGIA RECYCLED
The Habitat stores might still seem to be the height of modernity, but the chain, founded by designer Terence Conran in 1964, is already half a century old. Those who are nostalgic for a beloved piece that was once part of their lives might just rediscover it – although at a much heftier price than they originally paid – at the new Habitat 1964 store (77, rue des Rosiers, Saint-Ouen) in a former warehouse at the Saint Ouen flea market. The friend I went with was delighted to discover the corner computer table he paid around €200 for 10 years ago selling for – get ready – €3,000. Individuals, by the way, can put their old Habitat pieces on sale here. Warning: Habitat 1964 will be closed Aug. 12-30.
While you are at the flea market, a meal at designer Philippe Starck’s restaurant Ma Cocotte is a must. The two-level bobo-filled bistro feels a bit like a food factory, but the food is fresh and tasty, the staff friendly and efficient, and the decor – Starck’s mash-up of flea-market finds and modern architectural touches – is endlessly amusing.
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