c'est beau chez toi | un dimanche à la maison
| Photography by Philippine Scali|
In Paris
Growing up in Paris, Sundays had a rhythm. Every week we went to the St Ouen flea market's Paul Bert, my father collected antiques and we'd wander through the alleys filled with objects, paintings, furniture. As kids we followed along, thinking this was a normal Sunday. As teenagers and young adults, we'd escape to the Malik market to hunt for the perfect pair of vintage Levi's 501s or worker's pants.
Then a long Sunday lunch in Serpette with family friends before heading home to watch a movie together. The structure was always the same: morning market, afternoon meal, evening at home. No rushing, no commitments beyond family time.
| Photography by Philippine Scali|
In San Francisco, we've adapted this tradition. We lead busy lives, work through the week, volunteer on Saturdays, so Sundays we keep for ourselves. The key rule: no commitments, no driving anywhere we don't want to go. We start slow. Home-cooked breakfast, reading, opening windows to let fresh air move through the house. I try to handle chores throughout the week so Sunday is free.
| Photography by Philippine Scali | Styling by Un Douze Avril|
No Driving Photography by Philippine Scali
We're lucky to walk most places from our house. Our current favorite is the newly developed Mission Bay neighborhood with its walkways along the bay and beautiful landscaping. We stop at Arsicault for croissants - the best you can find outside France. When the weather cooperates, which it often does these days, we rent bikes and ride to the Ferry Building for lunch. Gott's is my go-to. The ride itself is perfect - waterfront the whole way.
| Photography by Philippine Scali| Styling by Un Douze Avril|
Cooking
Back home, I cook something we'll eat throughout the week. A pot of soup, a stew or a new recipe, something that makes weeknight dinners easier. This is very French, the Sunday cooking that carries you through the week. It alleviates the mental load of "what's for dinner" when you're already tired.
| Photography by Philippine Scali|
Un Dimanche à la Maison| Photography by Philippine Scali|
We wrap up early. French movie together if possible (so many to choose from), then early to bed. The whole day has this protective quality, we're not saying yes to invitations or obligations. We're just being home.
| Photography by Philippine Scali|
c'est beau chez toi's approach
Photography by Philippine Scali|This approach to Sundays connects to how I think about home styling through c'est beau chez toi. Your home should be a place you actually want to spend time in, not just pass through on your way to somewhere else. When you style your space thoughtfully, the right lighting, comfortable seating, things arranged to be used not just looked at, staying home becomes the plan, not the fallback.
The French Sunday isn't about doing nothing. It's about doing things intentionally, in your own space, at your own pace. Market in Paris or bike ride in San Francisco, the principle is the same: protect time to simply be, preferably at home or close to it, with people you care about.
