BIJOU: something small and exquisite
Tucked away on S. E. Bybee Street in the Westmoreland shopping area (and 2 blocks away from the Stars malls) is a small shop imbued with a rare atmosphere. The name is simply "Marguerite" and it is the vision of its owner, our friend, Daisy Phillips.
I am not exactly a world traveler, but I would say that this shop would stand out in Paris, New York, and London--actually in any great metropolitan city. And here we have it in Portland, Oregon.
The shop is painted in tones of grays (with maybe a "beigy" tint) and Daisy has done wonders with architectural features, draping, moldings, and built-in display pieces. The floor is a wormy-pine laid in a chevron effect. Lighting is achieved with chandeliers.
There is a mixture of new giftware and English, French and Swedish antiques.
One large open wall is filled with with French clay ware from Astier De Villette in Paris. The beautiful cream-colored dishes are actually made from black terra cotta. These are highly desirable to the discerning shopper who can add to a collection from time to time. The shop has a bridal and gift registry and also offers gift certificates.
There is a timeless feel upon entering and this is enhanced by the wonderful scented soaps, candles, and room sprays from Deptyque and Parfumerie by Rance. I especially adore the varied selection of fabrics and linens in the form of towels, runners, tablecloths, pillows, and even fine cotton pajamas and robes.
There is pewter and hotel silver mixed in various displays--one whole section devoted to unusual barware, glass cases filled with precious antique "smalls"--even wonderful ruffled umbrellas.
I am always drawn to stationery and writing tools and in the photo below, you wil see an old desk jam-packed with cards, pens, journals, papers, greeting cards--even old French correspondence written in lovely copper-plate handwriting.
And then, there is the last "piece de resistance"--the wonderful powder room--the ultimate feminine space.
Right now the shop has an autumnal feel with sheaves of wheat and pheasant feathers about, but before long it will be decorated for Christmas.
I always leave the shop (or thinking in French, the Bijou) inspired and with my spirits lifted.....
signing off.....
Gayle@starsantique.com
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