Thomas SauvéWe met with Maïa Paulin, former director of the ASDA design agency and wife of the renowned designer Pierre Paulin. She welcomed us to Saint-Roman-de-Codières for a brief interlude exploring her husband's work, her family history, and her love for the Cévennes region.
You and your husband Pierre arrived in Saint-Roman-de-Codières in the 90s. Why did you choose this area?
We went hiking in the Cévennes in 1978. I know exactly when it was because I was expecting my son. We took our sleeping bags and backpacks and slept under the stars. At the time, we didn't have any particular attachments; five regions of France appealed to us. Then we chose the Cévennes. We needed space; it was a time when Pierre needed room to breathe fresh air. He arrived here on his own and said to me, "You have to come!" It was truly meant to be. We settled down to watch the sunset over the Cévennes, and we haven't regretted it since! Pierre was a true nature lover; you could take him into the woods, and he'd find his way back. But in the city, he was lost. He really needed the countryside. I live very well here, and I wouldn't go anywhere else. It never crossed my mind to leave since I arrived. What I love about Saint-Roman-de-Codières is being at the crossroads of three completely different valleys. And especially that view stretching from Mont Aigoual to Mont Ventoux.
What place does the South Cévennes hold in your memories?
It's magical, especially our first arrival via Saint Guilhem and the Buèges Valley. Pierre stopped here in 1995 and enjoyed the peace and tranquility of the place. The house has been completely adopted by our son, his wife, and their three daughters, who come every holiday.
You and your husband revolutionized the French design landscape. How do you continue to make your work shine?
The pieces are by Pierre, and what I've managed to do is maintain interest in them over time. Our son and his wife have taken over, and they bring the period furniture to life in an extraordinary way; almost everything they make is manufactured in the Occitanie region.
Can you tell us about the company Paulin Paulin Paulin?
It's a family business run by my son and his wife, based in Paris. The goal is to bring to light lesser-known aspects of Pierre's legacy, to keep his works alive through exhibitions, publications, and more. We strive to preserve the authenticity of his creations while utilizing new materials and technologies. This kind of perfectionism ensures the long-term beauty of his pieces. So, Paulin Paulin Paulin is here to share these lesser-known aspects, to promote recognition and broaden knowledge of design, all while respecting Pierre's work and preserving his memory. We also, of course, handle the restoration of his works.
What is your favorite spot in the Southern Cévennes?
It's hard to say which is my favorite spot. In my memory, when we were travelling a lot and when we arrived with Pierre in the Cévennes, the spot we loved was the Col de l'Asclier.
Hervé Leclair
