Claude Cartier Décoration, now led by Fabien Louvier, unfolds like a living setting, where interiors are conceived as narratives rather than simply furnished spaces. Each project emerges from a subtle interplay of materials, colours and volumes, guided by an approach that seeks harmony without ever obscuring the character of the space.
© Courtesy of the artist
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I’ve lived in Lyon for 20 years. I worked for 18 years at Claude Cartier Décoration, and last year, on July 1st, 2025, I bought the company following Mrs. Cartier’s retirement.
I am now the new manager of two furniture and home decor showrooms in the center of Lyon.
Where is your studio located & how does it look?
We don’t have a studio in the traditional sense; we have two furniture and home decor showrooms located on the Lyon peninsula, in the historic antiques district. We showcase various furniture brands, mostly Italian, but also Danish and French.These include: Moroso, Porro, Baxter , Tacchini, Flexform, Delcourt Collection, Collection Particulière, CC Tapis, Maison de Vacances and others.
Our approach is somewhat unique. We are primarily a furniture store open to both individuals and professionals, including architects, interior designers, and decorators. But our distinctive feature is that we are, above all, “designers and decorators,” creating immersive environments that reflect our style and make our clients feel completely at home. The main space at 25 Rue Auguste Comte is presented as a showroom that wraps around a green courtyard and transforms into a loft on 2 levels.
© Courtesy of the artist
Are there any projects that are personally important to you—whether recently completed or currently in progress?
The project closest to my heart is, first and foremost, the complete renovation of the showroom after I took it over, following structural work. This allowed me to breathe new life and a fresh spirit into the space for our clients.
A project that I feel truly reflects my work is an apartment in Paris completed last year, which is a defining example of my style.
Another very important project for me, which we are currently finalizing, is the first project I’ve signed as a manager: a jewelry store that will open in Lyon in the coming months.
© Courtesy of the artist
© Courtesy of the artist
© Courtesy of the artist
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
Our neighborhood is a true living space, filled with shops and wonderful atmospheres, whether it’s fashion boutiques like ADN, AC17 or BONNY, pleasant restaurants like le Café Arsène or galleries like la Galerie MASUREL or la Galerie MC2M … Everything is designed for a great time.
© Photo by Michael Moffett
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?
Unfortunately, as in many places in France, many businesses are closing, which is very regrettable, especially since they are often relevant and interesting businesses.
© Photo by Hugo Douchet
© Photo by Léo Da Rocha
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
Lyon is historically a city of silk and textile weavers.
We work with a Lyon-based family of fabric manufacturers called Bisson Bruneel.
© Bisson Bruneel
© MC2M Gallery
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited ?
Innovation? I’m not knowledgeable enough to answer that. But Lyon is a dynamic city on a human scale. And it’s at an interesting crossroads, whether you want to go south, to the mountains, or easily reach Paris.
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
Personally, I’m a big fan of the cuisine and the atmosphere of the restaurant: Café Arsène.
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
– Instagram
– Spotify
– Facebook
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
– Décoration au lait
– Elle Decor Italia
– AD France
Obviously, it’s an occupational hazard!
© Photo by Diogo Nunes
Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?
If I were mayor for a year, I would try to create cohesion among the shopkeepers, and also to ensure smoother traffic flow.
One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains —which one would you choose?
Without hesitation, it would be Italy, and Milan in particular. I love this city, its energy, its architecture, and the Italian way of life.
