Written by Natalie Aldridge
Two years ago, internationally acclaimed interior designer Timothy Corrigan visited the recently restored and opened Hotel de la Marine museum in Paris. Designed and built between 1757 and 1774 by the architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel, Timothy was captivated by the refined sophistication of the Neoclassical building and the extravagant fabrics and colors chosen within the private apartments. This visit served as a catalyst, prompting him to further explore the textiles and passementerie of this graceful epoch.
“THE BAGATELLE COLLECTION IS DIRECTLY INSPIRED BY THE NEO-CLASSICAL DESIGNS OF FRANCE IN THE SECOND HALF OF THE 18TH CENTURY, A PERIOD KNOWN FOR ITS REFINED ELEGANCE IN COLORATION AND STYLE. WITH ITS RICH DETAILING, THIS EXQUISITE NEW COLLECTION BRINGS THE PERFECT FINISHING TOUCH TO ANY INTERIOR. – TIMOTHY CORRIGAN
From meticulous research, the Bagatelle collection with Samuel & Sons emerged, a testament to Timothy’s profound admiration for the Neoclassical period and its historical motifs. The French Neoclassical epoch is credited to a resurgence of interest in classical Greek and Roman architecture and design between the mid-18th and early 19th centuries. In a parallel narrative, akin to the sophistication of that era, the Bagatelle collection employs a comparable approach, incorporating design motifs from the Neoclassical period.
Nevertheless, it transcends tradition by presenting these motifs in innovative ways, introducing fresh perspectives in terms of construction and the fusion of styles within each piece, whether it be a tape or tassel. Resembling a delectable array of confections, Marie Antoinette would undoubtedly love every trim and tape in the collection.
“SAMUEL & SON’S HAS ALWAYS BEEN SYNONYMOUS WITH THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF CRAFTSMANSHIP. DEVELOPING THIS COLLECTION WITH THEM WAS SO MUCH FUN BECAUSE WE WANTED TO REALLY PUSH THE BORDERS IN TERMS OF DETAIL AND LUXURY. I AM SO INCREDIBLY PROUD OF THE COLLECTION THAT WE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER.” – TIMOTHY CORRIGAN
With the nickname of TRIMothy, it is no wonder the collection is so extraordinary. Whether it’s the intricately hand-crossed tassels of the Bagatelle Tassel Skirt Fringe, the precision-crafted Bagatelle Braid, or the posh texture of the Bagatelle Marabout woven from silk and wool, each pattern tells its own tale. The Bagatelle Scalloped Tassel Fringe takes the limelight, flaunting meticulously hand-tied tassels that add a touch of timeless elegance. It is as if each one has attended charm school. Timothy Corrigan is truly the conductor of chic.
To learn more and view the complete collection, visit Samuel & Sons here. You can also see more of Timothy Corrigan’s work and tour his exquisite French Château here! The Glam Pad also recommends his book, The New Elegance: Stylish, Comfortable Rooms for Today.
OH, how I adore passementerie!