THE FLÂNEURS

Meet Petra van Roon, the founder of Palais

In an exclusive interview with Flâneur Magazine, Palais co-founder Petra van Roon reflects on the brand's journey from art school to sustainable design, revealing a passion for craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and timeless beauty. Discover the philosophy behind their curated collections, and the artisans and makers who inspire Palais' uniquely sophisticated vision for interiors.

Hi Petra! Could you takes us through your creative journey?

I studied at the art academy and although I loved certain aspects of it, I got less & less motivated. I wanted something more practical and concrete so I started my own business at 21 years old and grew from there.I have always been interested in interiors, from decorating my own bedrooms since i was a kid to doing larger residential & commercial projects later on.

The one thing I always missed when sourcing was distinctive, high-quality products with a sustainable backstory. I worked at a non-profit at the time, where I met Palais co-founder Michiel. We worked together on employment creation and Palais originated from there.

Sustainability is at the heart of Palais. Can you tell us more about your commitment to sustainability?

At Palais we want the right choice to also be a good choice, that our products are just as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. That is why we work together with the best professionals from India, Belgium and the Netherlands, we use materials that meet strict sustainable and ethical requirements and we constantly research how we can improve. Simply put, we want our products to spark joy for each person designing, crafting, selling, buying and utilizing them.

How are artisans at the core of Palais?

We work with a mixture of artisans and well-audited factories. The thing with factories is: you can have all the official marks & documents checked but it is all about relationships in the end. Personal connection, mutual trust & respect and a real commitment to solve & work together on issues that will inevitably arise.

Our indoor cushions are made in India. Additionally, we also have studios in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Portugal, but at the moment we don't have any recent images from those locations.

The Palais Style

How would you visually describe Palais?

What does the word Flâneur mean to you?

Wandering around with a keen, sophisticated eye that goes further than the obvious. Looking around you for beauty and meaning in the large & small moments.

What other Makers make you go “wow” at the moment?

Lulu DK, I love her floral paintings and shell art panels. My friend Elza Wandler for her beautiful bags. She is a true wizard with colour & form. Laura Maria, there is so much skill in her free work, especially her embroidery work is exquisite. And she also happens to work for Palais (lucky us!). Jean Roger Paris for the most iconic ceramics. Mrs Alice for her ability to create immersive worlds with a touch of whimsy. And lastly, Sophie Wake for her raw, emotional paintings.

What are your 8 favourite pieces on Maison Flâneur?

Sustainable Soft Furnishings

Discover more of Palais

Bolster Yoko Bordeaux & Spice

from £67.08

Bolster Yoko Olive

from £67.08

Bolster Rosita Orange & Pink

from £62.83

Double Sided Cushion Laura Moss & Caramel x Janis Bordeaux & Pink

from £71.32

Palais x Hôtel Magique Lampshade Riva Stone Red

from £96.80

Bolster Laura Sunflower & Rose

from £71.32

Lampshade Yoko Fuchsia

from £67.08

Bolster Michelle Moss & Olive

from £71.32

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