Recently I have been indulging in French food, La Parisienne Pates and Noir you can flick back to them to catch up. This has been a very very satisfying and pleasurable trip and it has given me a new type of entertainment. I can keep indulging by inviting friends over for wine and a Charcuterie plate.
This hunt for something French has lead me to French & Co in that delightful group of shops on Rathdowne Street Carlton North. French & Co deals in French antiques and is at 290 Rathdowne Street.
All things French
French & Co is owned by Bernice who used to own Vintage Antiques in the historical part of Tinakori Road Wellington, New Zealand where she specialized in French Antiques. A visiting New Zealand friend who loved her shop in Wellington mentioned her move to me and it seemed the right time to go there and continue my French theme.
Bernice’s ‘home’ in Melbourne is a fascinating place packed with items that are all imported from France.
Bernice makes an annual trip to replenish her stock. She will also order things for you including decorating books that she has a number of on display. She loves talking about her stock and her ‘sourcing’ trips. On her last trip she returned with a number of French religious icons – there is a big demand for these here.
French religious icons
I spent time browsing and was very taken with the antique linen that she brought in France – some beautiful pieces. Then there is the courtyard. I love this area.
Courtyard at French & Co
Plants grow well in the courtyard
What is it about French country that is so appealing?
It’s not all French country though. There are wonderful chandeliers that I am sure once graced some elegant Paris townhouse.
French chandeliers
These photos should give you an idea of the treasure you can find at French & Co in Carlton North.
Maxie at French & Co
Maxi also came to Melbourne from Wellington. After morning exercise she snoozes away the day.
Where:-
French & Co
290 Rathdown Street
Carlton North
Phone: 9347 1141
Opening Hours:-
Wed – Fri: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm
Sat – Sun: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Closed: Monday and Tuesday
Getting There:-
Car: There 1 & 2 hour parking in Rathdowne Street
Tram: 96
stop 18 Freeman Street & Nicholson Street.
Curtain Square
or Stop 19 Alexandra Pde
Walk through to Rathdowne Street village.
French & Co Facebook page:-
https://www.google.com.au/#q=french+and+co+carlton
I’d love to do a workshop. What dates and availability do you have coming up please?
Hi Cathy, the Introduction to Chalk PaintTM Workshops take place every month at French & Co. This month, March the dates are Wednesday 25th and Sunday 29th. There are still places in both days workshop. Please phone the shop for further details. Bernice @ French & Co.
Hi do you have any workshops on Chalk Paint happening soon, and if so what is the cost? thanks Beatrice
Could you tell me if you have any Chalk Paint classes happening in April? and what the cost is to attend. Many Thanks Leigh.
Hi I’m wondering when you are running your next classes on Chalk paint? Also I have an old Queen Anne dressing table and bedside tables they are shiny white and almost look lacquered? Can you use chalk paint on this surface?
Hi Toni
Thanks for your interest. To check the classes and find out the vacancies give Bernice a ring on 9347 1141. She will be able to help you with your question about the surface.
Best of luck Em
Hi there! Just wondering if you still have chalk paint classes fir 2017? When and how much does it cost to attend? Thank you. Eve