And just like that, the Fall season is upon us, and we are ushering in the milder days with FIFTEEN new designs! This is our largest introduction to date with new colorful designs from Güell Lamadrid, earth toned textures and fine sheers from Les Créations de la Maison, and three new fabrics from Castel that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them.

Güell Lamadrid's fall collection is inspired by colorful heritage textiles and kilims from the Caucasia region of what is now Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.

Ararat and Kovkas are woven chenilles inspired by historic handwoven rugs from the Caucasus region.

New Bolero is an update on a client favorite in new colors and now offered as a performance fabric treated with Fibreguard. Available in 9 colors.

Les Créations de la Maison introduces their Earth Collection which is inspired by the natural landscape near the Lamadrid family home in Comillas, Spain. The collection is focused on sustainability, natural fibers, and an earthen color palette.

Les Creations de la Maison also introduces three new double width sheers constructed of wool, linen and cotton. All made by the finest sheer mills in Italy.

Castel introduces a new addition to our Luxury Performance collection, Collobrières. Collobrières is treated with Fibreguard and named for a Provençal village known for colorful markets and forest groves. This plush velvet is offered in 12 colors.

Etienne, a personal favorite of our Creative Director, Laura, is a soft and sophisticated chenille woven by one of the finest Italian jacquard mills.

Joucas is a sustainable linen and recycled cotton blend inspired by the quite village in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Offered in 11 washed colors.

Voilá! We look forward to welcoming you to our New York Showroom, or national partner showrooms to see the new collections! Samples and stock are ready to go!

Bonjour! We are very excited to introduce our first Indoor/ Outdoor Collection!

The Île de Ré Collection is inspired by the island on France’s Atlantic Coast which is almost caught in time. The island is dotted with authentically charming villages which are all best discovered by biking through the salty breeze. There is a slow rhythm on Île de Ré, and our new outdoor fabrics capture the essence of days exploring wide beaches in the late afternoon summer light.

On a practical note, our indoor outdoor fabrics are not solution dyed acrylic, but rather polyester and polypropylene blends that pass Oeko-tex 100 Standard and the European high standard Greenguard. These fabrics are recyclable, antibacterial, anti-mold, and anallergic. The fabrics are easy to wash, quick drying, resistant to sea water and chlorine, lightfast, and water repellent.

Each fabric is named for a favorite village dotting the seascape on Île de Ré.

Les Portes is a painterly indoor/ outdoor design inspired by the quiet beach haven at the tip of the island.

St. Martin is an indoor/outdoor geometric design inspired by the winding alleés of this fortified port village on Île de Ré which was recently named to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Loix is an indoor/outdoor natural stripe named for the village on Île de Ré known for its authentic charm and salt marshes.

La Couarde is an indoor/ outdoor texture named for one of our favorite villages on Île de Ré with pine lines bike paths and a beautiful cathedral at its center.

Le Bois is an indoor/ outdoor tactile texture offered in five colors reminiscent of the wide beaches and white washed cottages on Île de Ré.

Spring arrived a little early this season! À plage!

This season, the CASTEL collections, including standout selections from Güell Lamadrid and Les Créations de la Maison, brings together tightly-edited textiles that reflect the CASTEL ethos: rich color palettes, neutral sheers in soft finishes, sustainability - and a nod to CASTEL’s European heritage.
Les Création’s collection is inspired by the natural landscape of Comporta in Portugal. Güell LaMadrid’s collection focuses on Japanese art and culture. Castel rounds out the season’s offerings with three new Luxury Performance fabrics named for our favorite Procençal villages.

Galé is an elegant, large scale print on 100% linen inspired by the natural and wild landscape of Comporta.

Comporta is a heavy twill stripe inspired by the casually chic Portuguese coast.

Aberta is a geometric chenille jacquard inspired by hand knit Hungarian blankets. Available in a single, distinctive color way. 

Sagres is a double width, 100% linen herringbone stripe. Sagres is a vertical stripe, but can be railroaded. Perfect for bedding and window treatments. 

Mara and Siana, inspired by the Serengeti, are double width, 100% linen patterned and striéd sheers.

Linden is a sustainable recycled cotton jacquard woven in a flowing design reminiscent of delicate linden tree leaves. 

Baobab is a sturdy cotton and wool blend woven in a striking large pattern inspired by the landscape of Northern Africa.

Nere is a hardy irregular stripe woven in three colors coordinating to Baobab.

Komorebi is an elegant velvet geometric woven in a lattice pattern. Offered in 5 colors coordinating with the Kanji print.

Ukiyo is a fine 100% cotton geometric woven offered in six colors. 

Azem is a chenille jacquard woven in a basket weave design. Azem is available in six rich and versatile colors. 

Omeyas is a chevron pattern flat woven stripe. Omeyas is offered in six colors that pair beautifully with the Azem chenille.

Avignon, from our Luxury Performance Collection treated with FibreGuard, is a plush and soft velvet  offered in 15 colors inspired by the Provencal countryside.

Aix, also from our Luxury Performance Collection treated with FibreGuard, is a smart herringbone design named for the Provencal City of a Thousand Fountains.

Arles, named for the Provençal village with colorful winding alleys, is a chenille from our Luxury Performance Collection treated with FibreGuard.

All of the new collections are available now at our New York Flagship showroom and our national showroom partners. All fabrics and samples are in stock and ready to ship.You may view the collections here. Voilà!

With the end of summer upon us, we wanted to share some photos of our wonderful family holiday in France.
Our favorite place has always been in the south, near Cannes and Mougins, but the past couple of summers we have ventured to the west coast of France to Île de Ré. Île de Ré is a 30km long strip of bike-able paths, sandy beaches, and almost painfully charming villages. Here are a few pics from our vacances....

The winding, cobbled streets of Saint Martin de Ré, the main port village where we rented a lovely little townhouse.

Île de Ré's roads are lined with salt marshes, where sauniers use age-old techniques for raking and harvesting sea salt. There are stands all over the island selling bags of sat on the "honor system."

We are completely enamored with the details and colors of the painted shutters and doors that adorn the village homes.

If you love oysters, then you have found your paradise. Biking all day, you work up an appetite, and luckily you never have to go far before you find a cabana with plates of fresh oysters, and a cool glass of wine to fortify the journey home.

La Martinière is the local favorite for creatively flavored glace (ice cream) and gauffes (sweet waffles). Our son's favorite spot for an afternoon goûter.

Of course we made time for a little shopping, and the local markets are the best for scoring gifts unique to the islands. Our favorite marché is in Ars-en-Ré.

The best way to see Île de Ré is by bike. We literally parked our rental car on the day we arrived, and didn't revisit it until we left for the mainland a week later. There are 110km of cycle paths on the island and lots of shops where you can rent bikes by the day or weeks. Be sure to get a bike with a basket!

We headed to the south from Île de Ré which is our favorite place for beach time and long lunches with our feet in the sand. More on that another day!

As we gently ease into fall, we look forward to our Fall Collections and creating new fabrics inspired by all of the beautiful places we are lucky to visit. Voilá!

Our new Aegea Collection is inspired by the crystalline sea, the bursting fuchsia of bougainvillea, the tonality of stucco and stones, and the bohemian energy of the islands dotting the Greek Aegean coast.

Aegea is a large scale linen and jute geometric embroidery inspired by the shapes and colors of the Greek islands and sea.

Paros is a jacquard woven stripe offered in five colors inspired by the swimming coves and villages of the eponymous Cycladic island.

Milos is a performance fabric treated with Fibreguard. Milos is both durable and beautiful offered in eleven colors inspired by the Aegean island’s natural seascape.

Zorba is a super soft bouclé made of recycled fibers. This sustainable fabric is perfect for upholstery and decadent pillows and accessories.

Tailak by Güell LaMadrid is a bold and bohemian linen and cotton ikat.

Also from Güell LaMadrid is Eve, a double width sheer made of vibrant sustainable recycled fibers offered in 15 colors inspired by Mediterranean coast. Eve is offered in 15 colors.

Vento by Les Créations de la Maison is a breezy double width 100% linen sheer loomed by the finest Italian mill offered in six colors.

Spring and summer are ready for these island inspired designs, textures, sheers, and warm colors.

Bon Été!

Bonjour! Just in time for Paris Deco Off and Maison&Objet, we have updated our Castel Guide to Paris to include some new favorites as well as revisit some tried and true recommendations. Allez!

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Recamier, a favorite in the 6th for its textile design dream rooms and proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens and Saint Sulpice.

Le Relais Saint Germain, chic hotel in walking distance to all the best Saint-Germain-des-Prés has to offer. Bonus: you get priority seating at our favorite canteen, Le Comptoir, the bistro on the ground floor.

Relais Christine, on a charming side street in the 6th with a little more swag and trim than is usually our jam. The honor bar makes up for the splurge, right?

Hotel des Académies et des Arts, a young feeling hotel inspired by an artist's atelier. A great option if you left your expense account at home.

WHERE TO EAT

This is a never ending list, so here are a few faves... feel free to reach out to us for more recommendations.

Allard, there are a few classics on our list that are quintessentially Parisian, and Allard does not disappoint. This is a special occasion restaurant, so go all out and order the foie gras and the frog's legs. And dessert, of course.

Hûiterie Régis, if you love oysters, then this sliver of a restaurant in the 6th is not to be missed.

Frenchie Bar á Vins is where you bring your hipster friends for delicious shared plates over small producer wines in an animated room in the 2nd.

We can't wait to make our way up to the 11th to try Maison, the new venture by Tokyo born chef, Sota Atsumi. His previous restaurant, Clown Bar, was one of our favorites for creative and inventive plates in a super cool space.

If you find yourself hungry between appointments in Saint Germain, then pop into Breizh Cafe for an authentic Bretagne buckwheat crêpe and a cup of cider. You will be good as new for more fabric shopping!

La Fontaine de Mars is a favorite because Mr. Canovas used to bring us here for long lunches around the corner from his office in the 7th. This is a very classic red and white checked bistro with lovely waiters who have been known to pour a little extra rhum on our baba.

L'Ami Jean in the 7th is a raucous bistro with excellent twists on classic French food. This is the kind of place where you will likely end up making friends with the table next to you.

Au Sauvignon is the perfect spot when you need a tartine (on pain Poilâne no less) and a glass of wine to tide you over after shopping at Le Bon Marche.

Our 8 year old son will tell you that no trip to Paris is complete without an ice cream pit stop at the famed Berthillon Glacier on Île Saint-Louis.

WHERE TO SHOP

There are many "obvious" places to shop in Paris, so we are partial to the small, neighborhood gems that sell one of a kind wares.

La Tuile á Loup, a special ceramics shop featuring creations by many local artists. Ina shops there, need we say more?

Deyrolle is one of the most eccentric and intriguing shops that is full of taxidermy and curiosities that rival the Natural History Museum. We brought home a beautifully framed butterfly. (No animals are harmed for the art here.)

Alexandra Sojfer is one of those specific gems that feel like entering a once in a lifetime space. This artist only makes umbrellas, parasols, and walking sticks from the finest materials.

Polder is a chic women's shop near Odéon founded by a pair of Dutch sisters. We love their flats, simple totes, and petite jewelry.

Librairie Elbé in Saint Germain has specialized in vintage travel posters since 1976.  A fun gift idea.

La Maison du Pastel is the oldest pastel manufacturer in the world. They open their colorful shop in the 3rd on Thursday afternoons between 2-6pm.

Forever on this list is Monoprix. We never miss a stop by what initially may seem a pedestrian department store for their beautiful children's and baby clothing. Many locations throughout France.

WHERE TO CULTURE

There are so many museums and points of interest tucked into all corners of Paris. Our advice: anywhere but the Louvre.

Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle is Paris's answer to NYC's Natural History Museum, but much more bizarre in the best ways. Our son is still asking questions about all of the weird and wondrous creatures spied in jars and intricate displays. The room pictured above is worth the visit alone.

Palais de Tokyo in the 16th is the largest center for contemporary art in Europe and celebrates living artists.

If you have kids in tow as we often do, be sure to swing by Ludo Jardin in the Luxembourg Gardens. This is not your average playground. Be sure to take a spin on the zip line!

Voila. We can't wait to see you in La Ville Lumiére!

A bientôt,
Laura & Stéphane

This season, the CASTEL collection, including standout selections from Güell Lamadrid and Les Créations de la Maison, brings together tightly-edited textiles that reflect the core of the CASTEL ethos: rich color palettes, neutral sheers in soft finishes, classic stripes, sustainability - and a nod or two to CASTEL’s European heritage. All of the featured textiles are both luxurious and livable, with intricacies in the construction and details of each that make this collection unmistakably CASTEL.

Cetara is an intricate cotton and linen print named for the cliffside town set against the dramatic landscape of the Amalfi Coast. Cetara has a half drop, full width repeat.
Available in three colors. 

Corduroy is a hearty yet soft fabric in rich jewel tones and gentle neutrals. Corduroy has a quarter inch wale, and is perfect for performance applications.
Available in 10 colors.

Fitzgerald is an undeniably sophisticated - if not entirely formal - satin stripe. This fabric is a modern twist on a classic stripe that is playful yet chic.
Available in five colors.

Last Stripe features dimensional, embroidered stripes on a relaxed linen background. The unique construction and double width makes this perfect for drapery.
Available in five colors.

Grand Rayure is a sturdy, coastal vertical stripe inspired by the French Riviera.
Made of sustainable and recycled natural fibers.
Available in four colors. 

A fall scene in Connecticut featuring warm Corduroy, crisp Grand Rayure stripe, and Level sheer drapery.

Brescia is a double width linen sheer made from delicate bouclé yarns that are gently woven together to create an elegant transparency.
Available in five colors.

Lautrec is a super soft and lustrous chenille that brings a note of glamorous texture in glimmering colors. Lautrec is also highly-durable and perfect for upholstery.
Available in 10 colors.

Marguerite is the perfect performance velvet: beautiful and tough. Highly resilient and durable, Marguerite is ready for all upholstery applications and can stand up to daily use.
Available in 12 colors.

Astrid is the perfect linen velvet in saturated colors that evoke a quiet luxury. The versatile texture can range from upholstery and pillows to drapery.
Available in seven colors.

Clara is an understated, chic printed cotton designed to anchor upholstery and drapery applications, contrasting beautifully with more whimsical prints and textures.
Available in eight colors.

Voilá! The new collection is available at our Castel New York City flagship showroom as well as at all of our representative showrooms and on our website.

The Bakuba Collection pays homage to the incredible Kuba cloths and colorful dyes created by the hands of artists of the 17th Century African Kuba Kingdom.

Bakuba is an embroidered linen inspired by the incredible Kuba cloths and textures created by the hands of artists in the Kuba Kingdom of central Africa. Our homage to these historic textiles comes in three earthen colors.

Teke is a faux raffia basket weave. Take is backed and ready for headboards, banquettes, wrapped panels, and natural inspired accessories.

Savanna is a luxe velvet with a color palette inspired by the colors of the grasslands of the African savanna. This durable velvet has a low pile which makes it ideal for sectionals and upholstery projects.

Tukula is named for the beautiful textured boxes that the Kuba people used for gifts and holding their textile dyes. Tukula is a handsome and durable texture ideal for upholstery and accessories.

Kasai, named for a river in the Kuba Kingdom in Africa, is a wool sateen in colors of water and rich soil. Kasai is suited for flowing drapery as well as upholstery.

Sankuru, named for a region in the Kuba Kingdom in central Africa, is a bouclé texture offered in six earthen colors ideal for upholstery and accessories.

The Bakuba Collection is available in all Castel and representative showrooms as well as on our website.

Castel began distributing Les Créations de la Maison three years ago in the US, and we have been nothing but thrilled with the creativity from the Barcelona based fabric company. We are pleased to present the new Atlas Collection.

The Atlas Collection is inspired by the busy souks, winding alleys, shaded riads, and colorful allure of Marrakesh.

Medina, seen here on the sofa, is the backbone of the collection with its durable texture ideal for upholstery.

Mamounia, offered in three colors, is an intricate woven striped chenille jacquard inspired by the Maghreb carpets that line the halls of the eponymous Marrakech hotel.

Marrakesh is a délavé printed linen and cotton in a stone washed finish. Shaun, is our plush bouclé offered in eight cozy, autumn colors... a bestseller already!

Drapey is a double-width drapery weight linen perfect for yards and yards of windows. Drapey could also be an excellent choice for casual slip covers.

Voilá, we hope you will visit our showrooms soon to see the collection, and as always, you may request samples on our website for immediate gratification. Profiter de la décoration à la Marrakech!

Bienvenue á Montmartre!

Our latest fabric collection is inspired by one of the most creative and enchanting arrondissement in Paris, Montmartre. We love the visual excitement brought by entering the chic and understated hôtel particuliers discovered in hidden corners of Paris. This collection is focused on livable luxury, rich colors, and high quality yarns.

Imagine walking the cobbled streets, taking in the grandeur of the Basilica Sacré Coeur, and visiting the creative artists who make the 18th arrondissement come to life. This collection is our love letter to Paris.

Lucien is our most luxe cotton velvet to date. This rich velvet is inspired by the many hôtel particuliers hidden throughout the chic corners of Paris. Lucien is offered in six deep colors.

Shaun by Les Créations de la Maison is a soft and modern plush bouclé offered in a range of eight natural and rich colors.

This is the bouclé so many of our talented clients have been asking for...

Chawi is a new two-tone herringbone design by Güell LaMadrid offered in six striking colors.

Marcel is a stylish Parisian gentleman who also has a trick up his sleeve. This performance velvet is chic for sure, but also packs a durable punch. Marcel is treated with Fibreguard and passes very high abrasion.

Meet Marcel! This Fibreguard treated velvet is engineered to be stain resistant and easy to clean. Have your fun, and just wipe up the spills with warm water and clean cloth.

Micheline is our latest faux fur. Luxe, plush, soft and destined for upholstery, throws, and pillows.

Montmartre is the backdrop to the entire collection. This Art Deco embroidered pattern is inspired by the winding streets of Paris's 18th err.

Voilá!

We have noticed over the last few months, that our interior designers have been asking for more color than usual. We think everyone is craving signs of living color!
So, we are excited to announce our very colorful new collection: San Miguel.

The San Miguel de Allende collection is inspired by the lively and artistic colonial city in Mexico. This colorful collection is woven together like a tapestry featuring a hand loomed embroidery, a bouclé reminiscent of cobbled streets, and a rich and color saturated texture.

The señor of the collection is its namesake, San Miguel. This geometric textile is hand loomed in India by one of the most creative mills. We are offering one color way in this fabric as we feel it captures the flavor of the city perfectly.

Zócalo is named for the colorful town plaza in San Miguel. Zócalo is a durable woven with a soft hand and rich color saturation perfect for upholstery, drapery, and accessories.

Correo is a nubby bouclé named for a beautifully hidden cobbled street in San Miguel. This fabric is heavy and rich with understated colors, perfect for upholstery or luxe pillows.

Come take the colorful trip to sunny Mexico with us...Olé!

Our new Izu Collection is inspired by the Japanese coast. The Izu peninsula is known for its crystalline beaches, views of Mount Fuji, hidden ryokan inns, and natural onsen hot springs.

Izu is the namesake of this collection. The very first print in the Castel line, this design depicts the Japanese coast, maple leaves, and Mount Fuji.

Atami is an exquisite bouclé made of the finest French wool and alpaca, named for the Japanese coastal village known for beautiful natural hot springs.  

Inspired by the glorious Shimoda Park, this woven fabric’s colors are reminiscent of the over 1000 colors of hydrangeas that grow in this coastal Japanese park.

Tomori is a woven chenille geometric offered in five natural colors reminiscent of intricate Japanese roof tiles.

Looking for a little zen? All samples and fabrics are in stock and shipping. Arigato!

We are excited to announce our new collection: Big Sky. Inspired by the American West, we took a little departure from our Mediterranean roots...

Big Sky is the foundation of our new collection, inspired by the Big Sky State and Native American culture, colorful handmade quilts, rugs, and blankets.

Sioux, named for the great Sioux Nation, embodies strength and beauty. A geometric pattern of cut velvet rises from a background of tough natural jute. Sioux is available in three colors.

Teton is named for the rugged and beautiful mountain range. Teton is offered in eight colors evocative of sky meeting mountains.

Cheyenne is a soft chenille stripe inspired by blankets woven by the tribes of the Wyoming plains. Cheyenne is available in four colors.

Montana is a rugged stone-washed linen in six color ways that reflect the state's glorious landscapes.

Butte is named for our favorite Colorado ski town. Butte is a large-scale herringbone woven of chenille and linen yarns, offered in three Colorado cool colors.

Come take a trip out West with us!

A little over a month ago, Castel opened its very first flagship showroom in the D+D Building in New York. We threw a Spanish fiesta in honor of our new partners, Guell La Madrid and Les Creations de la Maison, hailing from Barcelona complete with amazing tapas, Spanish guitar, and flowing vino tinto!

Alvaro LaMadrid of Grupo LaMadrid, Toni Espuch of Azul Tierra, Borja La Madrid of Grupo LaMadrid, Stephane Silverman of Castel, Dennis Scully of Castel, and Laura Silverman of Castel

Thank you to all who attended, especially the over two dozen magazine editors and scads of clients who turned out in high style. There is nothing a like a gorgeous showroom packed with New York's design elite to get the fall season off with a bang!

Robert Rufino, Christina Juarez, Dennis Scully, and Raymond Paul Schneider

We wanted to share some photos with you.

Lorraine Lang of Stark enjoying the Spanish tapas created by Zahra Tangorra Catering.

Janice Langrall and Michael Boodro

Kim Trepanier, Billy Fisher, Lauren Parrelli, Dennis Scully, Katy Olson, and Melissa Studach of Business of Home

Kaitlyn Peterson of Business of Home wearing a gorgeous dress made of Castel's Souk embroidery!

Randi MacColl, Jean Brownhill, Liz Nightingale, Jonathan Arnold, Alyssa Abrams, and Isabelle Harrington

Spanish guitar by Carlos kept the evening on theme

Toni Espuch with Clara Matignon, our new sales pro, and Borja LaMadrid

Bella Mancini, Dennis Scully, and Sarah Boyd

Spanish Sherry party favors to keep the party going at home!

Voila and Vamos!

All photos by Kevin Lau for Business of Home

The big excitement around here is that we just opened our first flagship Castel showroom in the D+D Building in NYC! We have partnered with long time colleagues and friends, Guell LaMadrid and Les Creations de la Maison from Barcelona, and we are exclusively distributing their gorgeous fabrics.

Grupo La Madrid is owned and operated by two of the most stylish Spaniards you will ever meet, Borja and Alvaro LaMadrid. Borja and Alvaro hail from the family that brought Barcelona the otherworldly Parc Guell, and more recently family hotels and restaurants around Barcelona. To say they are in the know is an understatement.

So, with our friends, we bring you The Castel Guide to Barcelona!

In our opinion, Barcelona can rival any European city in style, food, and hospitality. Take that, Paris. Barcelona is a truly colorful Mediterranean city full of creative vibrancy. There is so much to see and eat that it is hard to narrow it down, so here are a few of our favorites...

Where to Eat:

You will have your fair share of tapas in Barcelona. Bar Mut is a wonderfully cozy neighborhood bar with incredible small plates and Spanish wines.

Tickets is a literally a tough ticket, make reservations because the celebrity chefs and brothers Albert and Ferran Adria, hailing from El Bulli, pack in the crowds. The space is cheeky fun, but the authentic tapas is serious Spanish cuisine.

The vegan craze has made its way across the Atlantic. Green Spot is a vegan restaurant for non-vegans (meaning: delicious) with a beautiful interior to boot.

After your healthy lunch at Green Spot, you can splurge on the mandatory paella at Martinez. With bay and unobstructed views of Barcelona, grab a glass of authentic sangria on the terrace. Si!

A pair of Venetian brothers recently opening Xemei which is a gorgeously rustic restaurant with incredible Italian. This is where you will find the cool kids.

Where to Stay

Barcelona has no shortage of stylish hotels. The Mandarin and Cotton House are great examples of large, high-end hotels. We are partial to the smaller, locally owned homes away from home.

The Hotel Pulitzer is a favorite with the local design crowd. Centrally located near the Placa Catalunya, the Pulitzer is newly renovated with an airy lobby and pinstriped rooms.

The Margot House, named for the aloof Wes Anderson character from his film, The Royal Tenenbaums, is a boutique hotel with only 8 rooms that makes you feel like you are staying with an incredibly chic friend.

The guys behind the Soho House can do no wrong when it comes to creating the cool spot in town. Barcelona is no different, but to us, The Soho House Barcelona feels a little more approachable and fun than other locations.

Casa Bonay has a playful hipster vibe. This would be the Brooklynites' hotel of choice with its colorful interiors and chill terraces.

Get Your Culture On:

Barcelona celebrates creativity around every corner. The Gaudí designed apartment facades and tiled sidewalks create a wonderfully fantastical feeling. With their strong heritage in the arts these folks take their art museums seriously.

Pablo Picasso had strong ties to Barcelona, and his namesake museum is not to be missed. With over 4200 of his works, the Museu Picasso has one of the most complete permanent collections in the world.

The Joan Miró Foundation is a broad collection of the artist's works that he bequeathed to his hometown of Barcelona in 1971. The museum is made up of a series of light filled stone buildings that are as beautiful as they are modern.

The Caixa Forum, housed in a converted textile warehouse, is the huge Caixa Bank's contribution to the arts in Spain. On offer at the dynamic multi-use space are art exhibitions, film screenings, live performances, and children's activities.

No trip to Barcelona is complete without a visit to the Parc Güell. Gaudí's trippy mosaic masterpiece sits at the top of a hill that provides views of the city and the Mediterranean. Buy tickets ahead of time and try to go on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Where to Shop

Looking for the perfect gift to bring home to friends? Head over to the 40's era workshop of La Manual Alpargatera for colorful espadrilles.

For snappy men's clothing and accessories, check out The Outpost.

Stylish women should visit Coquette and Tomates Fritos.

Interior enthusiasts must visit Azul Tierra. Toni Espuch, the creative genius behind our new showroom, has two shops, one in Barcelona, and one on the coast in his home town of Alicante. Filled with curated antiques, accessories, and jewelry, Azul Tierra is a creative's dream.

If you need more suggestions, feel free to contact us, we could talk travel, food, and shopping all day.

VAMOS!

The biggest news around here is that we just opened our very first New York flagship showroom in the D+D Building at 979 Third Avenue! We are beyond excited. This has been a labor of love, and our expectations of this beautiful space have been far surpassed.

We have teamed up with long time friends and partners from Barcelona, Grupo LaMadrid, to realize this dream. Castel is now the exclusive distributors of these two fine textile brands: Guell LaMadrid and Les Creations de la Maison.

We worked with the Barcelona based design team Azul Tierra to create a space that reflects our European roots while firmly planted in New York. All of the furnishings and fixtures were imported from Spain. The feeling is vintage and refined, like a modern atelier.

This showroom reflects our French flair matched with our Spanish partner's heritage. You will find Castel's beautifully curated and colorful collection of textures, patterns, embroideries and plains. You will be introduced to Les Creations de la Maison's line of bespoke neutrals, sheers, and linens that have a distinctively sophisticated appeal. And you will be blown away by the colors, patterns, and large scale prints of Guell la Madrid. Oui! and Olé

If we do say so ourselves, the showroom is truly unique. We can't wait for you to come and see!

OMG, after the world's longest winter, and almost non-existent spring, we are so ready for summer. There are few things more iconic in summer than ice cream on a warm day. And all of this dreaming about flavors makes us think of all of the delicious colors. Let us make your summer sweet!

It has often been said that Castel is known for our color palette, especially bright, unusual colors. That may be because we are summer babies, and we live for a colorful beach day. Here are a few favorites...

Nothing says summer interior like linen. Marigot, named for a bougainvillea draped beach on St. Barth, is an all time favorite offered in almost 31 flavors.

Palma, named for the capital of Mallorca, is a breezy cotton blend perfect for beach house style. We created many pastel and creamy hues that echo the colors of the Balearic islands.

Dumonet, named for our favorite Parisian bistro, is a rich cotton velvet that is offered in so many colors... trying to pick one is like trying to pick the perfect glacé on a hot day.

These gorgeous fabrics are all stocked now, so hurry before they melt away like summer!

The anticipation of warmth and spring made the launch of our new spring collection even more sweet. Our spring collection is a cohesive mix of Moroccan inspired designs, Belgian linens, Italian jacquards, and a Parisian velvet. Basically everything we love in one boho luxurious package.

The star of this collection is Souk, a 100% linen jute embroidery inspired by the colorful markets of Marrakech. This design is one that will stop you in your tracks. The colors are spicy and warm just like the raucous and exciting markets of Morocco.

Castel is named for the small village in the South of France called Castellaras where we have a family house. It sits up on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean where there is a glorious view of Mougins. Bougainvillea draped Mougins is a neighboring village perched in a spiral surrounded by parasol pines looking like a Cézanne painting. The village is known for being home to many artists and galleries. This colorful enclave is the inspiration for our latest ikat stripe chenille jacquard.

Plume is an Italian jacquard with the perfect medium sized scale. We love understated designs like this one. The hand is brushed, and luxurious. No flash, just the utmost of quality and simplicity.

Bruges is a performance linen inspired by the eponymous city in Belgium. This linen is tough as nails, but residential in color and style. This is one that should be in every designer's toolbox.

Dumonet is a uber luxe cotton velvet reminiscent of the banquettes of our favorite Parisian bistro, Chez Dumonet. 12 luscious colors that are almost as rich as the Grand Marnier soufflé at Chez Dumonet!

The collection is available now in all of its colorful glory. We have samples, stock, and are ready to show you! Let us know if you would like a visit. We often travel with rosé this time of year.

Top ten lists are always fun, yet a little daunting to write. Interior design books can run the gamut of very informational textbooks to fluffy coffee table books and everywhere in between. But let's face it, most of us just want really inspiring photos that give us creative ideas, or at the very least a big case of green envy.

Here are ten of our favorite interiors books that we visit over and over for colorful inspiration:

1. Time and Place by Steven Gambrel

This is the first book by one of our all time, all star clients. Don't tell the others, but if I could have my dream home designed by anyone, I would go with Steven. I love his mix of modern and traditional and use of intense, yet restrained colors.

2. Interior Design Master Class Edited by Carl Dellatore

This tome is packed with essays and photos of interiors by some of the very best from Jeffery Bilhuber, Bunny Williams, Robert Stilin, Rose Tarlow, Matthew Patrick Smyth, Joe Nahem, and dozens more. Think of it as a very fun and colorful encyclopedia.

3. Domino: The Book of Decorating by Deborah Needleman, Sara Ruffin Costello, and Dara Caponigro

I know I am not alone when I say I pine for the old Domino mag, and have tons of back issues- still! There was such a great sense of young fun in so many of the featured interiors. Also, they had splendid ideas that did not break the bank.

4. Hidden Paris by Catherine Clifton-Mogg and Côté Paris

Who doesn't wonder what is beyond the grand doors of Parisian courtyards? Continue the fantasy of Parisian living with this little gem.

5. New York Behind Closed Doors by Polly Devlin

This newcomer is one we will keep forever just for the sheer entertainment value of being able to peek inside of the grand, and sometimes crazy funky apartments of New York.

6. A Place to Call Home by Gil Schafer III

So if, in my fantasy, I would have Steven Gambrel do my interiors, I would have Gil Schafer as the architect. Schafer has an incredible eye for detail, a great sense of history, and delivers classically beautiful homes.

7. Mark Hampton on Decorating by Mark Hampton

If there is a textbook that all designers should have in their libraries, this is it. The late Mark Hampton was a master at designing and decorating with elegance and timeless style.

8. Stay With Me: The Most Creative Hotel Brands in the World by Catherine Harvey

There are few things more fun than staying in a well designed, fun, sexy hotel. This book offers a good handful of successful examples. Bon voyage!

9. Tom Scheerer Decorates by Mimi Read

I bought this book as a gift and ended up keeping it for myself!

"There is something undeniably sunny about [Tom Scheerer's] work. . . . But Scheerer's exuberance is always cut with a hearty dose of Yankee restraint and practicality. It adds up to inspiring rooms that are comfortable, modern, and unpretentious." --Elle Décor

Couldn't have said it better.

10. Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna, Edited by Amy Astley

This book is the bobo version of The World of Interiors. Not too precious, but incredibly stylish with international flair that exudes page after page.

Continue reading →

We are certainly not alone in the feeling of wanting to shed in January... shed a few pounds, shed any grudges, shed clutter, shed the daily news. What could be more refreshing and exciting than a clean slate?

My fantasy of a clean slate is an empty apartment, painted white, and preferably in Paris. Near the Seine would be amazing, but I won't get too picky. The fantasy continues with how I would decorate said apartment. Usually I would go with some bold colors and textures to brighten those gloomy Paris days, but currently I am craving whites. Lots and lots of layered winter whites.

I often browse through all of the Castel books in my office thinking of fun ways to scheme our fabrics together. I am always amazed by how many different styles and looks I can create with under 1000 skus! Modern, clean, fancy, traditional, boho, neutral, patterned and colorful all in a pile on my office floor.

Our advice on pulling off a winter white interior is not to match, but rather to embrace the subtleties of oyster, crème, beige, ecru, and snow white through textures and slight patterns. You will discover that whites are actually quite warm and inviting.

See! This photo was shot in our snowy backyard, and voila, warm! Winter interior fantasy complete.

Give it a shot, and let us know if you need any white samples, we are stocked and ready for winter! We are off to warm up with hot toddies by the fire...

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It's that time of year when the world falls in love. But possibly not with retail. Just. So. Much. Stuff.
Let us help you find the perfect gift for every personality on your list...

For your glam, urban BFF, a pair of Heritage Diadora sneaks for bopping around town.

For the little person in your life, a constellation tent. I don't know what it is with little kids, but they ALL love a tiny, cozy place to hideout. This tent is more chic than the pillow forts they will inevitably build out of your couture pillow collection.

For your foodie brother in law who is always the life of the party, the new Night + Market cookbook from the super cool LA Thai spot. Dying. To. Go.

For your design savvy friend, treat them to a mini stack of Castel pillows from our Brooklyn shop!

For the tweeny teens, rock their world with this retro foil turntable. It plays mp3's, natch. So rad.

For your socially-conscious boho sister, a one-of-a-kind quilt from Anchal Project which provides full-time employment for craftsman, including healthcare benefits and education workshops to female artisans.

For your New York loving, Broadway obsessed, forever singing show tunes pal, a pair of tickets to see Bette Midler in Hello Dolly! Here's hoping you get to be the plus one!

For your outdoorsy husband, who loves to be on the water, a soft sided kayak.  It is important to keep husband happy. Plus wife is happy because this sucker deflates and does not take up your whole apartment/ house/ garage. Winning.

And as always, if all else fails, booze. For everyone. (well, maybe not the kids).

Voila. Happy and Merry!

As many of you are packing your bags today to head to frighteningly crowded travel spaces, here are a few links from around the web to keep you distracted.

Cornelia Street, my first NYC home

Thanksgiving always reminds me of my first few years in New York when I was too broke to go home for both this holiday and Christmas... so I always opted to stay in NYC, which I grew to love immediately. I would often host a few wayward friends for a delicious yet tiny home cooked meal in my tiny apartment. But honestly, those were the best! This article perfectly captures the spirit: How I hosted Thanksgiving dinner in my 195-square-foot apartment.”

Four and Twenty Blackbirds

If you are asked to bring dessert, here are two awesome recipes that have nothing to do with pumpkin (delicious, yet so predictable). Chocolate Guinness Cake courtesy of Nigella Lawson and Hands Down the BEST pie ever created by the amazing Brooklyn bakery Four and Twenty Blackbirds. Or you know, just pick one up and discard the box as evidence. I may have done this once.

If you are looking for a post pig-out movie, Lady Bird looks amazing, and SO millennial.

We have the perfect antidote to Black Friday madness. Stay home. You can shop for insanely beautiful fabrics at over 50% off net pricing right from your sofa! Help us clean off our shelves before the spring collection arrives! Win win.

Perhaps you are thinking of eating an extra slice of that aforementioned pie, in which case, you may need a pair of these insanely comfortable, stretchy, yet chic corduroy leggings. I haven't taken mine off in a week, don't judge.

For locals and visitors alike, some sound NYC brunch advice.

For anyone who wants to get the heck out of town and avoid any chance of talking politics with the fam, may we suggest going here... immediately. (husband, please take note.)

Voila. Wishing everyone a delicious and warm Thanksgiving!

Wilfred in color Petrole

As the air gets crisp, the colors change and the days turn moody, we find ourselves inspired to make a few changes in our own world. If you're diving into a project this fall, now's the time for the most exciting part of all: choosing a fresh fabric (at least we think so). Here are a few of our favorites that shine especially brightly in the cooler months.

Claudio in color Mousse

Velvets bring to mind all the hallmarks of fall: warmth, nesting and rich color palettes. One of our favorite velvets is Claudio, a chic and durable fabric available in some gorgeous colors, like this moss or Mousse, if your French!

Wilfred in color Souris

If you're looking for a classic, tailored neutral this fall, our new collection features a luxe mohair velvet with a masculine appeal. Named after the Castel patriarch, Wilfred is available in eight versatile neutrals.

Mara 

Bold and striking, Mara is our tribal chenille named for the Serengeti Region of Tanzania. Mara is offered in eight fantastic colors inspired by the dramatic African landscape, from rich Brique to sandy Champagne.

Lauranne II in color Ebene

Lauranne II is a luxurious and sophisticated velvet perfect for a timeless, elegant feel. It's offered in a host of pretty colors, from a punchy Framboise to an earthy Ebene, so you can make whatever statement you choose.

Anton, Avoriaz and Courchevel

There's a chill in the air, which means one very important thing at Castel: It’s finally time for faux furs. Our new collection offers three luxurious furs, named Anton, Avoriaz and Courchevel named for three beautiful Alpine ski villages. They’re ideal for a plush throw blanket.

Tavish in color Antilope 

While we're loving the new faux furs, we have a soft spot for the classics. Tavish is one of our favorites, an ultra-luxe faux fur with a very soft hand. With a faux suede on the back, it makes for a perfect instant throw.

James 

There are few fabrics more natural for fall than a classic wool flannel. This one is named James (after our son!) and is offered in ten sophisticated colors inspired by Savile Row.

Voila! And with that, we leave you to lace up your boots and go forth into sweater season. Samples are ready to ship, so get ready for a new burst of color.

Turns out, there are tons of interior designers and textile designers living in our neck of the woods in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. Please come join us Thursday, October 5th from 5-7pm at our Castel shop at 385 Henry Street (near Verandah Place) for a Trunk Show!

Designers and Creative Directors from Kettlewell Collection, Lauren Hwang New York, Samuel & Sons, Suzanne Tucker Home, and of course Castel will be here! Each of us will be presenting our latest fabrics along with prosecco and apéro. (Naturally).

Of course we welcome non-Brooklynites as well! It will be lots of fun, and hopefully very inspiring for all of us. Voila!

In the wise words of our old pal, Audrey Hepburn, "Paris is always a good idea." We could not agree more, and want to share our guide to la Ville Lumière.

Paris, like most European cities, is best discovered on foot. Pack some chic, non blister inducing shoes, and hit the cobble stones.

WHERE TO SHOP

There are too many charming boutiques to count, so here is a small roundup of places we like.

For French-girl style, head to L'Appartement Sézane. Shoes, dresses, bags, and cute souvenirs all dressed up and ready to go.

Also, the spirit animal of French style is Ines de la Fressange. Her shop is filled with curiosities, the quintessential striped tees, and of course lingerie.

You've probably gotten the memo by now, but Merci really is all that. The space is incredible, and their buyers have such a great sense of humor and fun mixed with stylish fashion. You will drop a wad of euros on random things like washi tape, a digital watch, a tea set, and a new Isabel Marant skirt. Bonus, they have an adorable café for a quick bite and coffee. Extra credit: you get to Instagram their adorable vintage red Fiat.

There are Monoprix stores all over Paris, and my personal favorite is the one at 6 Boulevard Raspail in the 7th err. Monoprix is like the Target of France, but of course, it's French, so it's better. They have beautiful baby and children's clothes and gifts especially.

If you are near the Louvre, stop by Astier de Villatte. The shop itself feels vintage Parisian, and they have beautiful one of a kind ceramics.

When you want a fancy snack for the plane, I mean, a gift for a dear friend, pop over to Meert, 3 rue Jacques Callot in the 6th, for gorgeous chocolates.

WHERE TO EAT

Our favorite subject... eating in Paris. It is so hard to go wrong. On our last trip, we went out almost exclusively in the 10th err. Kind of what Brooklyn is to NYC, this neighborhood has it going on with the food scene.

I love tell the story of the first trip Stephane and I took to Paris together... Stephane is French, and well, I am not. So he was "in charge" of our itinerary. I kept pestering him about wanting to try a restaurant I had read about called Le Chateaubriand. With a faux-traditional name like that, he kept dismissing me, but FINALLY he listened. Let's just say that I have been planning our trips ever since.

If you are looking for the classic French bistro experience, complete with a duck breast and tarte Tatin in a glorious red velvet backdrop, look no further than Chez Georges at 1 Rue du Mail in the 2nd err. If it was good enough for Julia Child, then there you go.

If you want to have the classic French bistro experience, and wear jeans, then get thee over to Bistro Le Paul Bert, 18 Rue Paul Bert in the 11th err. Order the steak frites and a Paris-Brest for dessert and thank us later.

Frenchie is a terrific, "new" restaurant serving a hip crowd of tourists. If you want to ditch the tourist part of that sentence, then go across the street to Frenchie bar à vins where the locals go for extraordinary small plates and wine in a boisterous grotto.

If I was to pat myself on the back, it would be for discovering some off the beaten path Parisian restaurant gems (so niche!) For more of a nouveau experience, get to the 11th stat.

Le Servan, 32 rue Saint Maur, was such a quaint and pleasant surprise. "New" French cooking by a pair of sisters who both hail from serious upscale Paris restos. They wanted a more democratic and seasonal experience, so voila. The perfect date spot.

Possibly our most fun and tasty evening of late was at Clown Bar. This is classic French turned on its head by a Japanese chef. Don't question it. Just go.

Lastly, I would be remiss not to mention our all time favorite canteen, L'Avant Comptoir in the 6th. You stand, you have small plates of perfection meat, cheese, wine, etc. and you love it. AND just in case you need a crêpe, then get to their small window for crêpe service. OMG.

OK, I lied, one more... I really love crêpes. Breizh Café, in the Upper Marais, is a great little unassuming, no frills spot with real deal Breton crêpes and cider. Get a savory crêpe. Then a dessert crêpe. Oui.

WHERE TO STAY

Paris hotels can bring so much design inspiration. We usually opt to stay in the 6th or the 2nd, so therein lies our recommendations. Our prerequisite is a small, Parisian experience.  One of the pleasures of staying in Paris is understated service coupled with smashing design. And killer breakfast, um petit déjeuner.

Hotel Le Relais St. Germain is a favorite just on location alone. (above is the view from our room.) You are smack in the middle of Saint Germain des Près. Their house restaurant, Le Comptoir, is a tough ticket, but you get to roll out of bed and have croissants here in the morning, not to mention, score a reservation. This alone is reason to bed here.

Another favorite in the 6th, right on the Place St. Sulpice, is Hotel Recamier.

The rooms are perfectly appointed in a textile lover's dream. The salon for tea, cocktails, and then breakfast is so chic and lovely. But, best of all, Jardin Luxembourg is your backyard.

This spring, we decided to switch it up a bit and head to the Right Bank. Hotel Bachaumont is a newly renovated Art Deco gem situated in the 2nd near Tuileries. Their restaurant is a hipster hangout, but we preferred it at breakfast time with their amazing skylit dining room. The fabled Experimental Cocktail Club has jurisdiction over their cocktail lounge. And let me just say, I needed to sleep off their rhum cocktails every morning.

WHERE TO CULTURE

I have a confession, I have never been to the Louvre. There, I said it. Paris, to me, is all about absorbing the culture in the streets, and I just cannot give a day to standing in line (likely in the rain) to see Mona Lisa and her friends. BUT! There are lovely small focused museums in Paris that are worth a morning.

The newly renovated Musée Picasso is definitely worth a gander. Just for the mansion that houses the museum alone. But the collection and history are so inspiring, I would argue, even for a non- Picasso fan.

Next up is the Tuileries Gardens and the surrounding Louvre area. Ok, so I could not stand the line, but the gardens are stupendous. 

But, if we are talking park visits, Jardin Luxembourg is by far and away the most glorious place you will visit while in Paris. There are no words to describe the beauty and attention to detail, no matter the season, although spring is a true treat.

VOILA! This should be enough to keep you busy for days... but call us if you need more suggestions, it is our favorite subject. Bon voyage!

Manuel in color Pistache

Our new spring collection has launched, and if we do say so, it's the best one yet. A mix of bold pattern, woven jacquards, and our signature: unique colors! It is like a breath of fresh air after a long winter. Take a peek...

Inspired by the Native American tribe who are known for beautiful quilt work, Lakota is a modern and colorful interpretation of a tribal patchwork. A touch of viscose gives this complex yet understated woven a subtle hint of sparkle.

Roscioli is a charming small-scale geometric jacquard design inspired by a colorful evening in Rome - La Dolce Vita at its best!

Named for the salty coastal region in France renowned for its natural unspoilt beauty, Camargue is a chic textural woven with an amazingly soft hand. Its tonal colors recall the subtle shades of the sun bleached pebbles, dunes and beaches that make the Camargue so iconic.

Named for 3 gorgeous Alpine ski villages, Anton, Avoriaz and Courchevel are three of the most luxuriously plush faux furs, perfect for pillows and throw blankets.

Wilfred is a rich mohair blend named for the Castel patriarch. Handsome and strong, chic and timeless, Wilfred is available in 8 versatile neutrals that will work within a wide variety of design vocabularies.

Voila! Stock and samples are ready to ship, so get ready for your spring dose of chic!

Palma, Kuba, Leone, and Marigot - left to right

A question we often get, is what are the new color trends? We are influenced by fashion, shelter magazines, street style, but mostly we just go with our gut. I had a big indigo moment a couple of years ago, and that really showed through in our collections. Now, we are really drawn to pastels, especially a dusty pink.

This year's Pantone color of the year is a very bright, lime green. Not currently our jam, but last year's colors were baby blue and pink which did end up making an impact on our collection.

Palma featured as crazy chic drapery in Paris

Our current Brooklyn shop window, inspired by an interior designer's feminine office,  is fun and tidy, with its fresh Spring style featuring some of our current favorite colors.

The most amazing detail in this window is the handmade "rug" made by my talented friend Vera. She used leftover fabric scraps I had hanging around my office to make this gorgeous quilt. I want to use it as a wall hanging, but you can beat me to it and buy it on our webshop!

On the flip side, our new Spring collection is just about to launch, and there are some bold and graphic designs that add punctuation to these neutral and soft palletes.

Our new Manuel geometric embroidery, named for our dear friend, Manuel Canovas.

Just a little public service announcement to start off the New Year...

Castel will not be having a 2017 fabric price increase. That's right. Zero. Zilch. Nada. Non.

So carry on selecting beautiful fabrics, and we will be here to happily serve!

Happy New Year. Love, Castel

It's that time again! Let's face it, it's been a rough year (David Bowie! Donald Trump?)... so we have compiled a list of cozy, chic, and fabulous gifts to help lift your spirits this most wonderful time of year!

For your Mother in Law, or any Southern folk on your list, a classically beautiful Magnolia Wreath.

For your most enthusiastic design friend, a Castel exclusive Italian merino wool throw. Tutto bene!

For your child-at-heart husband, a vintage inspired Pendleton toboggan. Weeeeeee!

For the little people on your list, a handmade canvas Wally the Whale. Bonus: a feel good purchase because the proceeds go towards the artists in Haiti. Testimonial from our son, "I love my Wally."

For your too-cool-for-school younger brother, Nike Lunar Force Duck Boots.

For your very stylish sister in law, the personal favorite Comme des Garçons zip around wallet.

For your most cerebral friends, resort to the New York Times Best of the Year Book List.

For your kindest, most socially conscious friend, give a subscription to Causebox. Bonus: Feel good purchase!

Lastly, don't forget to treat yourself! For this, we suggest a fab pair of Loeffler Randall Nicolette pouf sandals. The visual definition of splurge.

If all else fails. Booze. For everyone.

Salut! Voila.

I love Thanksgiving. The food, the friends, family, the coziness of a holiday about eating well and being thankful for all our blessings. But sometimes you need to get the heck out of dodge... entrée St. Bart's. Ugh, just the name alone conjures images of pretentious Hollywood types frolicking in high heels on the beach, but actually that is not the case, at least this time of year.

St. Barth is a French bohemian's dream. There is a wonderful mix of French joie de vivre and easy going Creole culture. Pack linen and your favorite bikini, not sequins.

The best way to get to St. Barth is via St. Martin or San Juan, then you take a thrilling puddle jumper onto the tiniest runway in the Caribbean. Pick up a little Suzuki jeep to navigate the winding island roads, and you are on your way!

There are some fabulous hotels on the island, but they are super expensive. Unless you are Rhianna or Kate Moss, opt to rent a villa. You can gather your friends, cook together, chill by the pool, and then all split up to go explore different pristine beaches everyday.

Our favorite beach is Saline. You take a walk through some tropical trees, over some rocks, and then voila! The most spectacular and secluded beach you have ever seen. Honestly, you can't go wrong. All of the beaches are unspoiled, uncrowded, and simply gorgeous.

Where to eat? One of the best luxuries is a long lunch of grilled fish, rosé, and a dessert chaser of house made vanilla rum at Le Grain de Sel. It is right before you pull into the car park for Saline Beach which is perfect. You can go nap and sleep off your rum on the beach after!

Nikki Beach on St. Jean Beach and Taiwana on Flamands offer a bit more of a shi-shi lunch scene, but beautiful none the less.

If you are a shopper, you will most certainly find yourself in Gustavia. L'Isoletta is a great little pizza and wine bar that is perfect for a pit stop before unloading your bank account at Bulgari. If you are looking for a more authentic gift to take home, stop by local Totem Surf Shop to score a tote or t-shirt. Also, there is a great line of local skin care products called Ligne St. Barth that you can find at local pharmacies or at the spa on the island.

Our favorite time of day may be apéritif. After a full day of sun, it is great to unwind with a cocktail at sunset. Our two favorites are the bar at the Le Toiny hotel near the Anse de Grand Fond, and the garden at Tamarin near Saline.

Do Brazil on Shell Beach is also a perfect spot for lunch, or to end your day at sunset. The beach is covered in shells (obvs), and the Ti Punch is not so bad either.

One last little tip, the best croissants and baguette on the island can be found at La Petite Colombe Patisserie on the way to Colombier. Our son totally agrees.

Giving Thanks! À bientôt!!

Brooklyn, particularly Cobble Hill, has a long tradition of making a big deal out of Halloween. We resided in Brooklyn Heights for many years and would always make the trek across Atlantic Avenue to come partake in the annual Cobble Hill Halloween Parade. There is jazz band comprised of local high school students who lead a motley crew of young and old bedecked in their best Halloween efforts.

This is our first year as Cobble Hill residents, and we do not want to disappoint. We live along the parade route, and our neighbors go full out with their decorations. This year Stephane (who is always dressed as Elvis) is planning to rig up a flying skeleton on a zip line who drops candy on to the kids below. I hope we have enough candy!

Also along the parade route is the Castel shop at 385 Henry Street. Our shop window is definitely in the Halloween spirit a la Alfred Hitchcock. We are calling it "A Death of Crows."

Swing by if you are in the neighborhood! Candy for the kids, and wine for the grown ups!

We are a little excited about Interior Design Magazine's Best of Year Awards... because we are up for one! Check out the competition in the Best of Residential Textile design category, and then please VOTE CASTEL! Merci!

Voila. Shameless self promotion finished.

The Castel Fall 2016 collection has just launched! This collection of fabrics was inspired by a recent trip to Italy, especially Venice. The colors, the light, the jovial energy, the history, and especially the winding streets inspired the colors, textures, and bold designs.

The bold and handsome Bruno, was named after a spectacular dinner in Venice at our favorite restaurant, Alle Testiere. Bruno, the chef, is dynamic both in and out of the kitchen, and we had a grappa fueled delicious evening thanks to his hospitality.

Tera, photographed here in its natural Mediterranean habitat, is a durable bouclé named for a quiet Venetian alley. Tera is acrylic backed and ready for upholstery!

Named for the winding maze of streets in Venice, San Polo is an art deco masterpiece in chenille. Destined for dramatic drapery and upholstery.

Named for the capital of the gorgeous and breezy Spanish island of Majorca, Palma is a cotton blend ideal for airy drapery applications and rugged enough for upholstery.

Portillo is a chic and cozy flannel named for the challenging Chilean ski area. This flannel is perfect for drapery or upholstery in your chalet! Shockingly, Portillo is 100% polyester, yet is truly fools even the most trained eye into thinking it is cashmere or wool flannel.

Rialto is named for the colorful and boisterous market in Venice. This painterly chenille bridges both upholstery and drapery applications.

Doge, also pictured at the top of the post, is named for the magnificent Venetian landmark, the Doge's Palace. Our Doge will be perfect for your most elegant sofa.

Voila and Bellissima!

This summer I had a BIG birthday leering, and Stephane was being particularly cagey. Since he is not the type to forget BIG events, I was wondering what he had up his sleeve, but was totally clueless. So, on the night of the big day he claimed we were going out to dinner in the neighborhood. Well, thank goodness I put on some mascara and cute shoes because after a long walk through the meandering streets of South Brooklyn, we happened upon the Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, and voila! A room full of my favorite friends brandishing shuffleboard sticks (which are actually called tangs as I was quickly informed.) So it was settled, I was old and therefore needed to learn to play shuffleboard like a proper geriatric.

Royal Palms has the immediate atmosphere that announces you are about to have a really good time. It's like Palm Springs landed right next to the Gowanus Canal complete with striped awnings, vintage Sinatra approved cocktails, and a few palm trees scattered around the massive room. Luckily for all of us newbies, a guy in a jumpsuit appeared to give us the rules of play and to explain the "tangs and biscuits." See: Rules of Shuffleboard. Apparently, nobody likes a biscuit banger.

Great vintage cocktails to spike a little friendly competition.

Even the bathrooms at Royal Palms are worth a gander.

Clearly we had no fun at all:

The birthday biscuits!

Every spring Stephane and I have to go to Lake Como for work. Look, somebody's got to do it. So while we have to be in Italy, we like to make the most of it and tack on a personal trip too. This year we opted for Venice because I had never been! Turned out, it was a grand choice. Continue reading →

Our latest shop window expresses our enthusiasm for the oncoming of summer and all of the neighborhood greenery. You could say, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn! We got a little creative, and everything you see here except for the chair frame and step ladder is fabric! Castel fabrics!

Swing by to see all of our fabrics (in ALL colors!), have a quick espresso, or enjoy the sun on our street front terrace. 385 Henry Street, Brooklyn. 212.758.9900

Being in the design business, inspiration is everywhere, but perhaps the most interesting is being a voyeur and seeing what other designers are up to. We take so many magazines and peruse many a book, and our latest favorite is Brooklyn Interiors by Kathleen Hackett.

Our stylish and dear friends, Juliana Merz and Harry Cushing, are actually featured in the book, so we immediately headed out to our local bookshop and picked up a copy!

We love this book for its simplicity and sincerity. Look, I like the next issue of Elle Decor as much as the next design fiend, but sometimes don't you feel a little detached reading those glossy books? Like, if I see another hedge funder's Tribeca 10,000 square foot "pied a terre" with Rothkos and Basquiats lining the walls, I might freak. That's why this book is such a breath of fresh air. Real people, real apartments, and a sense that these designers and their families pulled these places together with creativity, not just casheesh.

Brooklyn does get a bit of a (deserved) rap of being the promised land to hipsters, artists, and people who make their own artisanal beard wax while taking themselves very seriously. All interiors dubbed "Brooklyn" have vintage elements or the effortless look of not trying to be cool while of course being painstakingly cool. Brooklyn Interiors does not make an effort to debunk this idea, but rather to share some examples of actual locals who embrace their space, geography, and flair for the curated home.

Here are a few snaps from inside the book... Enjoy and let us know if you have other new design books you are into at the moment!

Jamming out to "New Music Friday" on Spotify and getting packed up for a sunny road trip this weekend! Here are a few fun links from around the web to keep you busy while you sit in traffic...

For New Yorkers, here is a great little list of brand new restaurants to try. I am all over those bao buns. If you are staying in town, this is a great chance to try without the usual crowds!

As we are kicking off the summer season, this is great advice about entertaining. Bottom line: Don't stress, put all your junk in the bathtub, and have lots of cocktails on hand. Life is too short not to celebrate it with friends. Voila.

I am going to order these beach towels stat. Love and peace, y'all.

If you crave a little gossip while sitting by the pool... news flash ( I know, like 2 days ago, gah!) Johnny Depp is back on the market. It appears he is unloading some assets, so if you have $27 million you may be interested in his St. Tropez estate. Lord have mercy, Johnny needs an interior designer!

Ok, maybe you want a real beach read. I met the author of this book at the grocery the other day, and she could not be nicer. I told her I can't wait to read the book, so I have to go buy it now before I run into her again!

This is the most adorable hostess gift idea. I do declare, who are we to argue with Garden and Gun?

For when you get asked to bring a salad to the barbecue this weekend.

In case you are stuck in line at any given airport... a little levity.

Have a grand time, so matter where you land this weekend!

I just watched this video on Vogue.com several times in a row while laughing hysterically.

https://youtu.be/vWmPObduQPQ

That is all. Voila.

We are very excited to announce that we have our first Brooklyn storefront! It is kind of amazing how things work out sometimes. Stephane and I were casually musing quite recently about how great it would be to have more office space, and bam! This great little storefront that is about 20 paces from our front door on Cobble Hill Park became available. We snapped it up and just moved in!

This all happened so fast that we went into this very spontaneously without much of a plan. Very unlike us which was fun! Is it going to be a shop? An office? A place for designers and locals to come hang out and see beautiful fabrics? An event space? A coffee bar? Check, check, and check! We are going to try it all and have some fun. The espresso machine is fired up and our front terrace is ready for sunning, so stop by!

The new Castel is located at 385 Henry Street in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. We are usually around between the hours of 9-5, Monday through Friday, or by appointment #212.758.9900. Bienvenue!

This is a question we very often get from friends and family coming to visit. I love this question. One of the joys of living in a great city is sharing your enthusiasm. But also, I get a little bit of butterflies with this question, hoping that I can deliver that magical idea for the perfect afternoon stroll or romance inducing corner cocktail bar.

Every spring we have lovely friends come visit from Barcelona. They are smart, chic, devastatingly stylish, and up for most anything... basically your dream visitor. They obviously come from a pretty incredible place themselves, so I raise the bar when thinking of suggestions for them. Early spring I start compiling my list of ideas for their late May visit.

First, I am going to come clean. I now live in Brooklyn, and before that Nolita, and before that the West Village. I am a downtown girl all the way, so my lists are very slanted. Not to say I do not adore the ultimate oasis that is Central Park or the historic spots dotting is periphery that make you giddy just to be there: Bemelman's Bar, 21 Club, The Met. But really, my heart resides south of 14th Street, and frankly now on the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Check In:

I have a short list of hotels I really like. Namely because I live here, so I haven't stayed in all that many! But I do love a good hotel bar, and my husband and I have been known to try a local shack up

The Bowery Hotel: the ultimate shack up; we stayed here on our wedding night. It is divine in a very understated-from-another-time sort of way. For all of you interior design geeks (takes one to know one) the fixtures, the finishes, the sheets are all superb and effortless. You basically feel cool by proxy.

The NoMad: The Madison Square Park area was never much to write home about until just a few years ago when the original Shake Shack, the ginormous Italian food emporium Eataly, and the hipster hangout Ace Hotel all opened within blocks of each other. Now, the Jacques Garcia designed NoMad Hotel and eponymous restaurant are really the crown jewel of young elegance in the hood.

The Marlton: If you are looking for a Parisian hôtel particulier smack in the middle of Greenwich Village, then you have found your home away from home. The rooms are small, but what they lack in size they make up for in tidy style. Their lovely restaurant, Margaux, and espresso bar is the perfect place to start your day before you hit the pavement.

The Wythe: Easily the coolest hotel in Brooklyn, so of course it is in Williamsburg. The hotel is housed in an old industrial warehouse right on the waterfront. The rooftop bar views of the city are spectacular, the rooms are hipster heaven, and the restaurant is the neighborhood clubhouse.

Where to Eat...

There are just too many places to list, so here is a list of some solid suggestions that are relatively new to the scene...

Wildair: You can't really categorize the type of food at Wildair which is a small plates, natural wine driven spot on the Lower East Side. Some dishes feel American Southern while other feel Southern Spanish or French, but no matter because they are all terrific. They don't take rezzies, so go early and catch a rock show on the LES later, or vice versa. If you are the have-to-have-a reservation type, then try their sister restaurant, Contra, which also gets high marks.

Babu Ji: The East Village is known for divey Indian food restaurants with Christmas lights and sitar players which is fun, but Babu Ji mixes it up in the best way. Grab a tall Kingfisher out of their beer cooler in the back and pray for a table so you can feast on classics like butter chicken and tandoori prawns. This is a new and popular spot, so note it can get as noisy as an Indian train station.

Estela: Located in an unassuming space on an unremarkable stretch of East Houston Street, is this little gem. Estela was our favorite dining surprise last year, and we were not the only ones, Bon Appétit rated it as their favorite new restaurant in America. So, get a reservation and prepare to have your socks knocked off. If they have this sweet potato frothy rum dessert on the menu (yes, I know this sounds weird) get it and thank us later.

If tiny Estela is booked, try the chef/owner's new hot Italian spot Café Altro Paradiso in west Soho.

Santina: If you constantly imagine yourself on the Amalfi Coast in the summer, but it is winter in New York, then make a reservation at Santina. Our advice: take a stroll on the Highline and then get on in here for refined and exciting Meditterrean fish and a top notch Negroni courtesy of the Torrisi boys (the same ones behind the beloved Carbone and Parm).

June: We live and work in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, and June has become our canteen. June fancies itself as a natural wine bar, but that sounds so stiff and one dimensional... and healthy. The last time we were there we had a myriad of small plates that involved uni, marrow, pea shoots, coq au vin, and other wild ingredients that added up to deliciousness to wash down with our organic sparkling "orange" wine from Bordeaux. Delightful every time.

La Vara: This is the new south Brooklyn prize of a small neighborhood restaurant that has rocked every review this side of the Manhattan Bridge. Michelin stars? Check. An inventive Spanish-Moorish inspired menu drives the allure, but the friendly neighboorhood vibe and tasty sangria keep us coming back.

Also, I will mention a handful of favorites for categories that we always get asked about. Like, the best pizza? Best sushi? Best bagels? Best, best, best. So here is my local, average New Yorker opinion on such topics...

I realize this is a highly sensitive and debated topic, but the best pizza in New York is Lucali's in Brooklyn. And will you look at that, it's in our neighborhood! This is a no-nonsense, brick oven, no menu kind of place. There will be a line unless you get there at 5pm. No, you cannot have a salad. Yes, you can have wine if you bring it. Jay Z has been known to cut line, but all of these annoyances are worth the best handmade pie in the world. There, I said it.

There is amazing sushi all over New York. Our personal favorite for years has been the original  Blue Ribbon Sushi on Sullivan Street in Soho. The wood paneled room has a Japanese terrarium feeling, and it is very zen. The staff, especially the sushi chef, Toshi, is extremely cordial and calm. Go omakase; you will not regret it! Also, if they have Harushika sake on the menu, pony up for this also. No reservations, so go early on a weeknight, or prepare to wait at a local bar until your number is up.

Lastly, we would be remiss not to mention breakfast. There are two places in town that are always sublime. Like beyond.

If you want the full Jewish breakfast with the best lox and bagels and latkes that would make any Gentile swoon, then get down to the Lower East Side to Russ and Daughters Cafe. The original Russ and Daughters counter on East Houston Street has been there for a century and is so old school charming with their white tile and apron clad counter guys. They pleased the masses a couple of years ago by opening this sit down operation.

Finally, the crème de la crème, Balthazar. I often joke that Keith McNally and his design crew here at Balthazar do Paris better than the Parisians. The room is an incredibly warm and grand brasserie, and the food can keep up. Many go late for the steak frites, but my jam is breakfast. I swear by their almond croissant. Like, last meal caliber.

If you are in our neighborhood, come stop by our storefront in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn!

Voila. Welcome to New York!!

Our new spring collection has a bohemian sophistication that is inspired by the colors and joie de vivre of the French Mediterranean coast. Each fabric is named for a coastal village that inspires spring and summer casual elegance. That is the tagline, but let us show you!

Last summer, while visiting the in laws in the South of France, we took a road trip to the beaches near St. Tropez. This sounds so fabulous in a Bianca Jagger sort of way, but the coastal villages in this region have such a relaxed charm that in my opinion is the very definition of chic.

Open air marketplaces. Long rosé soaked lunches under whitewashed thatched pergolas. Women in linen caftans and huge straw hats. Rolling hills dotted with small vineyards overlooking the rich blue sea. So naturally we were inspired to color and name a collection for this exuberant utopia.

A rosé vineyard near Gassin, France

Marigot, the most boheme-chic linen blend in our collection...

Olimpio is an Oceanic inspired woven that has as much depth as the sea!

Gassin

Camarat, the most fabulous bohemian, yarn rich woven in the collection.

Breezy summer days on the plage

We think even Mick and Bianca would think this collection is beyond cool.

 Cheers!

Everyone likes music. Everyone thinks they have awesome taste in music. My dear husband loves his iPod packed with Styx and the Stones, and heaven forbid, Wreckx in Effect.

The closer I edge to a new decade (not telling which one), I want to stay in the know about cool music. I am lucky to have friends who really keep their ears to the ground for new bands and artists and share their playlists with me. Then, every now and then, a great playlist just falls in your lap, like today!

The NY Times just published 25 Songs That Tell Us Where Music is Going. Click on it and enjoy scrolling through the visual and audio story of new sounds, artists, and directions. I feel cooler already.

Happy Friday! Off to download some new tunes...

All photos by JR for the New York Times

Sometimes when I hear people describe their jobs, especially in the creative realm, I think, "Wow, their job sounds so interesting and fun! Not like work at all!" And then I remember how fortunate I am to feel that way about my job much of the time. Let's face it, for most designers, the actual creative work is a much smaller percentage than the paperwork/ follow up/ "officey" time, but in the end, the results are worth it.

Every season, I have anxiety while piecing together fabrics, colors, placing orders with mills, the details with the sample maker, the shipping, customs, yada yada yada. And every season I am so thrilled when I see the finished product come together! It's similar to the pride you feel for a chil

One of the most fun parts of putting out a new collection is photographing the fabrics in a creative way that really show the essence of the product as well as give the clients an idea of scale and use. I have been very lucky to team up with some awesome photographers as well as prop houses to help us convey the "Castel look."

Two of my favorite sources for props in addition to random flea market finds are Patina Studio and Holler and Squall, both in Brooklyn.

Patina Studio is this big lofty warehouse space that is typical to Bushwick, where are the cool kids hang these days. They have everything from vintage library books, to stacks of carpets and chairs, and then there was the pink typewriter. I just had to have it! Our photographer, was like, "what the heck are we going to do with THAT?" I just shrugged and beamed over how adorable it was.

Holler and Squall is a retail antique shop in Brooklyn Heights that specializes in the "Brooklyn/ Upstate New York" look as I like to call it. Vintage lighting, upholstery, quirky accessories with a nice mark up. But very cool and worth it.

You can file this under random information, but if you are the vintage/ flea type, get thee to Brooklyn where there are finds galore for your styling needs! Voila.

We hope you have a splendid holiday! Just in case you need a little diversion from the eggnog slugging and jiving to Bing Crosby, here a some fun clicks from around the web.

In case you feel in need of a nap, check out this Instagram account. zzzzzz....

In case you need to relax, just imagine wandering through one of these gorgeous gardens.

In case you need an excuse to get out of town and escape to Paris this winter. Maison et Objet anyone?

In case you need a little zip for your holiday look.

In case your gran didn't make your favorite dessert this year, try this!

In case you want to say humbug and run away from it all!

Have a jolly one!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Love it? Hate it? Face it. The holidays are upon us, and we are here to help with your gift giving ideas...

For your most sentimental friend, commission a photo with The Heirloomist. Shana, aka the Heirloomist, Novak is a kickass photographer who snaps editorial shots you may have already seen (plus many of the awesome photos on the Castel site). She will take your most precious possessions and photograph them in the most lovely and artistic way.

For your girliest girlfriend, hook her up with this irresistible lip2cheek by the organic and super cool RMS Beauty.

For your mountain climbing (or wannabe) boyfriend, make him psyched with the latest Patagonia Ascentionist pack.

For your foodie cousin who is homesick for NYC, a shipment of of lox and latkes from the hometown favorite Russ & Daughters, just in time for Chanukah!

For your smarty pants brother in law, peruse this NY Times Best of 2105 books list.

For your globe trotting BFF, this monogrammed Darjeeling weekender. Or, if your BFF is more preppy Hamptons rather than Wes Anderson, go with this country club worthy canvas and leather number.

For your more earthy friends, a piece of handcrafted Redraven porcelain is a sure fire bet.

For your sister, whom you adore, a sisters' weekend away! No kids, just spa time and bonding at this most perfect sanctuary in the hills above Santa Fe.

As long as we are on the travel kick, For your sweet and uber adventurous husband who is always busy doing for everyone else, a Peruvian trek away from it all.

And don't forget your favorite design besties, who may love a few of yards of Castel's latest and greatest!

If all else fails, booze is always a safe bet. If you are in NYC, check out the most adorable wine shop near the South Street Seaport, Pasanella and Son. They also ship charming gift boxes!

Happy and Merry!

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. There is no stress about shopping, no religious faux pas worries, no questions about whether you should wear white shoes (don't)... Just a day to enjoy great food and great friends and family. And in our family, a friendly competitive bet on who will have the best time in the Ridgefield, Connecticut 5K Turkey Trot.

I am that cheesy person who makes everyone go around the Thanksgiving table and say what you are thankful for. This does not have to be an earth shattering declaration, but I think it is nice to take a moment to reflect on how lucky we are, and to remember those who are not as fortunate.

This year, we sponsored a child in Zambia, named Christabel, through a Christian organization called Family Legacy. I have a dear friend, Kate, who travels to Zambia every summer to visit the beautiful children at the local orphanage and school there. Did you know that Zambia has the highest per capita rate of orphans in the world? I didn't either.

There are 13.8 million people in Zambia and half of them are under the age of 16. This huge number is due to the high death rate from extreme poverty and HIV/AIDS. Zambia has the 7th highest AIDS infection rate in the world.

Kate reached out to me and all of our friends to ask for support and assistance for many of the children at Camp Life who need sponsorship. Once I saw Christabel's bright and warm smile, read her heartbreaking story of being left behind, and read about her dreams to study hard and become a doctor, I felt she was meant to be an extension of our family.

If you would like to help sponsor a Zambian child also, please see the links below...

Also, we would love to hear about your favorite organizations to which you donate your time or resources. Leave us a comment!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

If you would like to become a Family Legacy sponsor, contact my dear friend, Kate Swail: kateswail@me.com. Or you may contact Family Legacy directly: tel.#972-620-2020 or http://familylegacy.com/get-involved/sponsor-a-child/

We are off on a family vacation this week, so I will leave you with some fun tidbits from around the web...

Stephane and I have a bit of a problem looking at real estate "porn." We have come to the conclusion  that imagining living in these spaces is probably better than the real thing. BUT, this is a special one. Like Smithsonian special...Julia Child's house, "La Pitchoune" in the South of France is for sale! Could you imagine cooking in that kitchen? OohLaLa (insert Julia voice here.)

As a Mississippi Delta native, I cannot wait to get my hands on this new book by Richard Grant. Read his wonderful op-ed from last week's Times here. It had me feeling nostalgic for the first time in a long time.

The pumpkin craze this season seems to be a little out of control, but Thanksgiving is coming... so here are the 12 BEST Pumpkin recipes out there.

For those of you who have not had the best week. Chin up!

And in case we do not come back from Saint Barth, you can find me here. My all time favorite beach house courtesy of Christian Liagre.

Bon weekend and bon week!

We have a bit of an obsession with Rome. Whenever I hear someone say that they love visiting Italy, but just not Rome so much, I am baffled. Truly. Continue reading →

Stephane and I are very skilled at tacking on a little fun to work trips. I mean heck, if you are going to fly to Chicago or Milan for work, stay a while! There is so much to see!

Last week we took off to our other favorite coast: the west one. We had coverage for our kids, so we planned to max out our free time. We landed in San Francisco at 11:39am and were having bloody marys  brunch at the Boon Fly Cafe in Napa by 1pm. Like I said, skilled.

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We are off to our favorite west coast cities, LA + SF, this week to launch our new Castel collection, and can't wait!

While we are soaking up the California sun, here are some fun links from around the web... Continue reading →

Fashion week in Paris just wrapped, and of course we came away with tons of gorgeous Spring 2016 inspiration. Our pick for ALL AROUND BEST: Valentino (with Balmain as a close runner up.)

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It's rainy here in NYC today, and chilly to boot. This basically makes us want to close shop and head home to fire up a movie and start happy hour a little early. I found this advice from Man Repeller perfect for a day like this! Wine advice from a French girl. Oui Oui.

While we are on the subject of French drinking... I always find when we are lazing in a French cafe, that I am always overwhelmed by the desire to bottle up the ambience and experience and bring it home. The romance, the joie de vivre, the simple sexiness of it all. Alas, back home things are not quite as ooh la la. However! I have found those adorable drinking glasses that are in every bistro within a stone's throw of the Seine. Here's where you can score your own Picardie glassware.

Lastly, If you ask a million people which is their favorite bistro in Paris, you will get a million different answers. So here is ours: Le Comptoir in the 6th Arr. It is always charming, truly delicious, and some of the best people watching I have ever experienced. Go early, or have an afternoon snack at their casual L'Avant Comptoir next door. You can't miss.

Bon weekend!

Our new Fall 2015 collection has launched! This collection conjures very international inspirations and aspirations. Luxury to us is not just about being fancy or expensive, it is much more about a tailored simplicity. Luxury in the fabric world means impeccable quality in the yarns used and clarity of color in the dyeing process.

Indigo collection, from top: Masaru, Akaei, Satchi, and Ishi

Stephane and I have always been drawn to Japanese design, and really just the way the Japanese appreciate beauty in its purest forms. This season, we did an Indigo collection of just four fabrics, each dyed indigo, with lovely "clean" designs.

Akaei, named for a stingray found in Pacific waters, is a shagreen jacquard design. Masaru, named for a favorite Japanese furniture designer, is a tidy and strong plain woven perfect for upholstery applications. Satchi, a type of Japanese basket weaving, is just that (!), a thick basket weave ideal for sofas, chairs, and pillows. Ishi, meaning stone in Japanese, has an organic appeal. Ishi is a matelassé that is perfect for bed covers, upholstery, and striking pillows.

Until you can take your next trip to Kyoto, pour yourself a refreshing saké and enjoy our new Indigo collection!

Maybe we are a little slow on the uptake, but we just started watching Chef's Table on Netflix. Love it

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We go away to the South of France almost every summer, and sometimes in the spring or fall too if we're extra lucky. I know, I can almost hear your eyes rolling. This sounds so fancy, so pretentious, so braggy....but let us show you the "other" South of France. No disrespect to Brigitte Bardot, but there is more to the Cote d'Azur than huge yachts and blingy beaches.

Stephane, Castel's owner/President/my husband, is blessed with a family house in an area called Castellaras near Cannes and Mougins. (Hence our company name!) This region of France is called the Alpes Maritimes, and you really can see the Mediterranean and the Alps from most vantage points. Fantastique!

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The Castel Fall 2015 Collection is ready to ship! Here is a sneak peek to keep you on the edge of your seats until the collection hits your local showrooms!

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There are summer people, and there are winter people. We at Castel seem to fall into the summer camp. What is not to love about lazy beach days, summer concert series, alfresco dining, and being a little bit suntanned?

Our summer holiday is over, and we are noticing the light change as September creeps upon us. But never fear, we found a great spot where it seems to be summer all year round, Brooklyn Crab. Just a hop and skip from our office in Brooklyn Heights over to the Red Hook waterfront is the most festive crab shack. We felt transported to Chesapeake Bay, if only for a few hours, while we sipped our $3 Narragansett lagers and downed dollar oysters on the front deck overlooking NY Harbor and Lady Liberty at sunset.

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We are very excited to begin blogging and sharing the Castel spirit and joie de vivre! Everyday we are inspired. Some days inspired by far away travel, and other days just inspired by the way the light hits the side of our brownstone.

We love good food, drinks, travel, cool shop finds, color, textiles, cultures, and most of all finding a special little detail to share. To us, discovering a small cafe on an unheard of street in Paris, sailing under the Brooklyn Bridge, riding a bike on Shelter Island, hunting for an antique fabric, or finding the perfect book for summer beach reading is what makes our days unique.

Let us take you off the beaten path!

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