The French do everything in style, even closing their doors.
A few summers ago we had a delightful French boy come to live with us for a few weeks. During his stay, I noticed that he would always keep the door closed to his room. He closed it when he was inside – not unusual, but whenever he would leave the room he would close the door after himself.
Small details can make a big difference.
This act makes such a difference that I never before considered. The hallway looks quite tidy, particularly when one has children (or 4 of them in my case) who may not abide by the same definitions of orderliness. The hallway becomes dark, however, if there are no interior windows. We Americans tend to favor the light that comes from keeping the doors open, I think.
What is behind this door in the charming room designed by Josef Hoffmann? (Photo courtesy of www.pop-pervert.com)
The other noticeable difference of this practice is the sense of the room upon entering. The room takes on a greater importance and uniqueness when it is closed; you enter into it with fresh eyes. It feels very different than simply leaving the door open as if its special feel leaks out into neighboring spaces. When the door is closed the deliberate effect you have created is retained. When one opens the door, the design is revealed all at once with greater impact.
Pauline de Rothschild surely left the door to her gorgeous Paris bedroom closed to preserve the secret garden within, created by the hand painted Chinese wallpaper.(Photo courtesy For Pilar~blogspot)
It is nice to look down a hallway to catch a glimpse of other rooms, but the French approach is equally appealing. When our rooms are left messy I remember Stuart’s habit and quickly go around the house closing doors. This leaves me happier thinking that our house is neat…at least the hallway.
Our favorite French boy, Stuart (in yellow), enjoying a day at Universal Studios.
If you would like help considering your interior details, contact Casa V.