Podcast Episode🎙️Daring to use colour: a comparative look at France and the UK — with Maison Blush
Understanding the Emotional Power of Colour in France and the UK
As a French designer living in London, I often find myself balancing between two design worlds. Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with Cécile from Maison Blush on her podcast, The Power of Colour, where we explored the cultural significance of colour and how it shapes our design approaches. In this special episode, we discussed how our respective backgrounds influence the way we use colour in interiors, and how it’s not just about aesthetics but also about expressing personality, emotions, and memories.
1. Our Approaches to Colour: The French and British Design Divide
Both Cécile and I share a deep passion for colour, but we approach it differently due to our cultural influences and personal design philosophies.
Cécile’s Approach: Subtle Elegance
Cécile is the founder of Maison Blush, where she specialises in transforming spaces through the power of colour.
Before founding Maison Blush, she worked with women who had experienced violence, young people in reintegration programs, and families rebuilding their lives. It was during this time that she realised how profoundly our environment impacts our well-being.
Today, she brings this conviction to her design work, helping clients transform their living spaces into places of balance, inspiration, and personal growth. With a unique background in both personal support and colour psychology, harmony, and history, Cécile ensures that each space she designs becomes a sanctuary for both the mind and soul.
Cécile’s work in the South of France is all about creating serene, harmonious spaces. She uses colour thoughtfully, but subtly, to bring warmth and elegance to a room. Her goal is to enhance the mood of a space without overwhelming the senses, creating calming environments that feel deeply connected to their surroundings. Colour in her designs often reflects the natural beauty of the French countryside — soft, earthy tones that evoke a sense of peace.
My Approach: Bold and Playful Colour Storytelling
Colour, for me, is all about telling a story. It’s not just about filling a space; it’s about creating an experience, something that resonates deeply with those who live in the space.
While my work always revolves around colour, I adapt my approach to each client's unique vision. I’m known for using bold colours, but how I use them depends on the space and the client’s preferences. In some cases, my design might feel more restrained, using colour in subtle ways that add depth and vibrancy without overwhelming the space. In others, we embrace full-on colour play, mixing hues and patterns to create something truly lively and personal.
In the UK, especially in London, I’m often described as having a “French style” due to my minimalistic approach to colour. I prefer geometric shapes, accent walls, and colour zoning — subtle yet bold, creating spaces where the colour doesn’t overwhelm but supports the overall design. This approach is often referred to as "colour zoning," and it’s about applying colour in a way that highlights specific features, creating a sense of intentionality without making the space feel chaotic.
On the other hand, in France, people often say my style aligns more with the “British approach,” as I embrace vibrant hues and love mixing bold patterns. French interiors are typically more reserved, with an emphasis on muted tones and understated elegance. But in the UK, especially in places like London, there’s a “go big or go home” attitude when it comes to colour. London’s creative energy allows for more freedom when it comes to design, and I’m able to experiment with unconventional pairings. This environment has helped me develop a style that is more adventurous and sometimes even a little whimsical.
However, I find that the most important thing is understanding the client's style and how they want to feel in their space. I always push for colour, but it’s ultimately about creating a style that feels right for them. Whether it's through subtle zoning, geometric shapes, or full-on vibrant walls, my goal is always to reflect the personality of the people living there, and bring a sense of joy and warmth into their lives.
2. Colour as Personal Expression vs. Fear of "Messing Up"
One of the biggest challenges we both face as designers is helping clients overcome the fear of using bold colour. Many people are hesitant to embrace colours that may not initially "match," or worry that they’ll make a mistake.
The Fear Factor 😱
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that your home needs to be neutral or match the latest trends. The fear of making a "mistake" with colour can prevent people from experimenting, keeping them stuck in a safe but uninspiring place.
Empowering Clients 💪
As interior designers, part of our job is to help clients break free from their colour insecurities. Once we find the right colour palette that resonates with their memories, preferences, and personalities, they feel liberated. This newfound confidence often leads to them embracing colour in ways they didn’t think were possible — adding new hues and accents that reflect their individuality. It’s about guiding them through the process so that colour feels less intimidating and more like an opportunity for creative expression.
3. France vs UK: Does Culture Shape Our Interiors?
As we discussed during the podcast, cultural differences play a significant role in how people in different countries use colour in their homes. "The French are afraid of colour," some say. "The British are eccentric," others claim. Is it a myth or a reality?
Two countries, two styles
The French Approach: In France, interiors tend to lean towards understated elegance. Colour in French interiors is often used sparingly, with a focus on creating balance and harmony. There’s a cultural preference for more subtle palettes — think soft neutrals, pastels, and earthy tones. In Paris, for example, the general approach to interiors is more restrained, reflecting the French desire for balance and sophistication.
The British Approach: In contrast, in the UK, particularly in London, there's a tendency to embrace more daring and eclectic combinations of colour. The city’s cultural diversity and artistic history have encouraged a more experimental approach to design, where people are often more open to mixing bold hues and contrasting patterns.
We also agreed that In France, clients might be more hesitant to experiment, while in the UK, there’s often a "go big or go home" mentality when it comes to colour.
Environment, climate, and Personal Style
However, you can't generalise the entiere country. Colour in interiors is subjective and varies widely even within countries.
In London for example, the use of colour is quite varied. The East End is known for its more artsy, experimental vibe, with bright, bold colours, funky patterns, and a free-spirited approach. Meanwhile, the West End is far more elegant and reserved, with subtle colour schemes, using neutrals and muted tones to create a refined atmosphere.
In France, it’s a similar story. In Paris, people tend to be more conservative with their colour choices, preferring more neutral tones or pastels. However, in the South of France, it’s a different world. The architecture and interiors are often full of bold, earthy colours that evoke the Mediterranean sun. Bright yellows, lavenders, and warm oranges dominate the design palette, inspired by the region's vibrant landscapes and lively culture. The warm climate and lively culture of the region influence the design choices, creating a colourful yet relaxed atmosphere.
This is where personal style comes into play, and it’s one of the reasons I love my work so much: it’s about meeting my clients where they are and collaborating with them to bring out the style that feels right for them.
The Pink Dilemma
A common story I often share with my clients is about the fear of pink — a colour that can be hard for some French men to embrace. I worked with a French couple in which the husband was initially adamant about not wanting pink in their home. But after discussing their memories and incorporating pink within a vibrant palette of teal, cobalt, orange, and yellow (inspired by their family holidays in Miami), they both ended up loving the result!
This example highlights an important point: our relationship with colour is deeply influenced by social and cultural norms. People often fear certain colours because they associate them with specific gender or social codes. But once those preconceived notions are challenged and the colours are paired thoughtfully, people feel empowered to experiment and embrace what they truly love.
4. The FAQ From Our Followers
As always, we love engaging with our followers, and during the podcast, we addressed several questions submitted by listeners. Here are some key takeaways:
“How do I start adding colour without messing up?”
Start with smaller pieces like cushions, art, or accent walls, and see how the colours make you feel. As you get more comfortable, you can add more.
“Can colour be timeless, or is it always trendy?”
Absolutely! The key to timeless colour is choosing shades that resonate with you and complement your lifestyle. Trends will always come and go, but personal style will last.
“How does culture influence how we use colour?”
Culture has a huge impact on our relationship with colour. In some cultures, certain colours symbolize power or healing, while others might be seen as too bold or inappropriate. It’s important to understand the deeper meanings behind colours when designing a space.
“What cultural influences have caused us to lose our love for colour?”
I’ve always been fascinated by the work of Michel Pastoureau, a historian who studies the history of colour and its cultural significance. According to his research, colours used to have deep social meanings, but over time, especially with the rise of digital technology and mass media, our relationship with colour began to change.
The Greying of Society: Pastoureau suggests that the introduction of colour television and the internet played a significant role in this shift. As we began to see the world through a digital screen, the richness and vibrancy of colours were often reduced, and the aesthetic of neutral tones, greys, and blacks became more prevalent. This digital shift made it harder for consumers and designers alike to embrace bold, vibrant colours in products, from cars to home décor.
The Role of Colour in Marketing: It’s also worth noting how this cultural shift has affected the way products are marketed. In a digital landscape, it’s easier for suppliers to sell neutral products that blend into the background (like grey, black, or white cars) than to promote bold colours. The public’s appetite for neutrality has made it harder to sell items in bright colours, as they are often viewed as “risky” or “temporary.” But when done right, bold colours can make products and spaces feel more alive, dynamic, and unique.
5. Conclusion: Colour is About More Than Paint
To wrap up our conversation, Cécile and I both agreed that colour is more than just a visual tool. It’s a way to live your life with intention, courage, and personality.
As we discussed on the podcast, colour is an emotional tool. It’s about creating joy and connection in your home. And it doesn’t have to be rigid or limiting — the only rule with colour is to embrace it fully, whether you’re drawn to bold, bright hues or prefer softer tones.
We also shared some tips for those who are hesitant about using colour:
Start small and experiment with colour in non-permanent ways — think accessories or accent walls that can be changed easily.
Don’t let Instagram dictate your choices — make your space work for you, not the other way around.
Have fun with it! Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things.
If you're looking for more guidance on how to confidently add colour to your space, I invite you to check out my course Colour Your Home Happy™. I share all my tricks for mixing and experimenting with colours in a way that feels natural and personal.
And if you're ready to add more colour to your space but aren't sure where to start, feel free to reach out for a one-on-one consultation — I’d love to help bring your vision to life!