This post should have been published on Friday... But with the last couple of weeks being so packed full of events and activities, I feel like I've been working against the clock to try fulfill all my obligations.
Still, Mr.inspire and I managed to clear our Thursday out and hop on the train to France, to spend the day in the lovely city of Lille.
image: Larazoni
I was incredibly surprised and inspired by the place and people of Lille. Although it had that wonderful European feel shining through, there was also a invigorating fusion of old and new, local and foreign and traditional and modern influences.
image: Little_Break
We especially enjoyed walking around Vieux-Lille, the old part of the city, Where you can find gorgeous patisseries, boutiques, galleries and magnificent architecture.
image: inspire*inspire
One of the great surprises we came across, while exploring that district, was the design gallery/shop, Sr77.
The lovely owner and curator, Stephane Rochaix, has managed to create a stylish yet welcoming space, where you can happily explore the best of design goodness.
image: via Sr77
With pieces by Spanish design
maverick, Jaime Hayón; luxurious home decor by Hella Jongerius and Arik
Levy; and colourful gift items such as Pantnone mugs and Wallepaper
city guides- this gem of a shop is a 'must visit'!
We concluded our day trip with diner at the Berliner restaurant (recommended to us by Stephane, of Sr77).
The place has a real Berlin-chic to it, with vintage furniture and a wall full of graffiti and 'street art'.
The menu was pleasantly surprising, and the food was fantastic.
images: youropi.com
Not your typical French experience, the Berliner offers fusion cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere with friendly (and English speaking) staff.
I highly recommend it!
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Hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!
Stay tuned tomorrow for the giveaway winners.
