Celebrating Colbert’s summer awning: In conversation with Olivia Deruelle…

There’s even more reason to head to Colbert’s pavement terrace this season

As we revel in a heady combination of colour and texture, thanks to a vibrant floral awning, paired with retro-geo cushions and seat pads, all drawn from the archive at French design house Manuel Canovas. We talk to its Design Director, Brittany-born Olivia Deruelle, about the French art de vivre and why it’s a concept that will always be close to her heart. 

How did this collaboration came about? 

The idea stemmed from Chelsea in Bloom, the Chelsea Flower Show’s fringe event. Its Flowers in Fashion theme perfectly complements the botanical designs that we’re known for at Manuel Canovas, so it was the perfect opportunity to do something special for the whole summer season. 

What about the process of choosing just the right fabric for Colbert’s awning?

Designing the awning was an exciting creative journey. We wanted to craft something impactful that would complement the restaurant as well as enhancing the building’s aesthetic. So we chose tones that resonate with Colbert’s identity, incorporating its signature claret to create an eye-catching vista on the corner of Sloane Square. We selected a joyful, large-scale floral design to augment a sense of celebration and creativity. It’s a vibrant presence that embraces the idea of Parisian café culture. 

‘Both draw inspiration from history, travel, and creativity; Manuel Canovas from rare archives and exotic destinations, and Colbert from the literary and artistic traditions of Parisian café society’ 

Tell us about the inspiration behind the fabric’s design

It’s an archival gem, originally drawn in the early 1980s by Mr. Canovas himself. First printed on cotton fabric and launched in 1982, it’s a fantastic signature print called Coromandel, featuring bold, maximalist flowers and leaves. We’ve relaunched it this year in fresh, modern colours for a new audience. 

 For the soft furnishings, such as seat pads and cushions, we chose two designs -Paros and Keros – that each evoke canework and the timeless charm of the classic Parisian terrace. We’ve finished the cushions with a soft, velvet trim to reflect Colbert’s signature red. 

Tell us about the synergy between Colbert and Manuel Canovas

This collaboration seamlessly blends interiors and ambience, with Manuel Canovas’ indoor/outdoor fabrics enhancing Colbert’s charming setting. Both draw inspiration from history, travel, and creativity; Manuel Canovas from rare archives and exotic destinations, and Colbert from the literary and artistic traditions of Parisian café society. It’s an ideal match. 

We’re all about art de vivre – what does that concept mean to you personally?

For me, it’s about cultivating a lifestyle, creating beauty and meaning in everyday life. I see it reflected in the way a space can tell a story, or a fabric can evoke a feeling or provoke a memory. They are the first steps to an upgraded emotional experience; it’s all about details, coherence and shared moments. 

What does summer in the city mean to you?

In Paris, where I live, summer brings such a different vibe. The city is calmer and a lot less crowded. You can appreciate the beauty of the architecture while taking a long afternoon walk or enjoy sitting on the terrace of a pavement café, taking a bit more time to appreciate museums and exhibitions in a less hectic atmosphere. Paris is empty in August, it is the perfect opportunity to really enjoy its beauty and authentic charm. 

Colbert x Manuel Canovas terrace is live from mid-May to the end of August. Check out our limited-edition summer terrace menu here, in partnership with Pommery Champagne.