Co-founder of Miagoods

Interior architect, instinctive creator and lover of beauty where it is not always expected, Hortense Pontabry opens the doors of her cocoon nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés to us today.

In this vibrant Paris, made up of walks, impromptu encounters, and soft light filtering through the facades, she imagined an interior in her own image: timeless, luminous, and profoundly alive. A place in perpetual evolution, blending attention to detail, the softness of materials, and the art of hospitality.

Between precious memories, Tomète favorites and current inspirations, we meet Hortense for a sensitive conversation about her home, her rituals and her view on decoration as an art of living.

Photos and video: Antoine Sorel

Tomète: Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

HORTENSE: Hello, I'm Hortense Pontabry, an interior architect and product designer (albeit by accident). I love creating and making my mark in markets where beauty hasn't yet been explored. At home, I always strive to feel like I'm in "a perfectly sized cocoon." My decor is timeless and adaptable.

Three words to describe your interior design style?

Timeless, Luminous, Instinctive

Can you tell us about the city or neighborhood you live in? How does it influence your home?

Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Paris of Parisians, the joy of living on foot or by bike, the influence of the park and cultural venues everywhere. I am in love with this neighborhood, and I meet people there every morning.

Tell us an anecdote about the layout of your house.

One day, I tackled changing the sheets, and with a grand, forceful, and rather majestic gesture, I felt my body give way. My water broke right there in bed; surprise, it was time! My bag was packed, and we disappeared to the maternity ward. We returned a few days later, the three of us, overjoyed.

What is your philosophy regarding the art of dining?

I like change, I like colors, bringing life to this convivial moment. So, varying the place settings/tablecloths/ceramics/porcelain/daring to swap and start again

Do you have a memorable story or a specific detail to share about a meal you organized or participated in?

Around this table, we've shared dinners for 12, some very crowded, others romantic, just the two of us, but once we received more cakes from pastry chefs than guests. A meter of desserts!

How would you describe the atmosphere of your room in a few words?

Organized, clear, intimate

What is your favorite material to sleep in and why?

Percale cotton for that crisp, hotel-like feel. Hotel bedding is a dream come true.

A simple trick to give character to a bedroom (decorating tips for this room)?

Always manage the lighting to be dim, indirect, and dimmable if possible. And of course, double pillows!