Christophe Delcourt is an anomaly in French design. Where many of his contemporaries offer a “French touch” combining luxury with a hint of whimsy (or vice versa), Delcourt takes an earthier approach. His designs come in drawn-out, muscular shapes and saturated hues inspired by nature, in particular by the rolling Normandy countryside where he and his family have a home. There is no lack of urban sophistication in his pieces, but Delcourt expresses it through his love for craftmanship and a deep appreciation of materials, especially wood. Born in Paris, the son of a florist, Delcourt came late to design after studying drama at the renowned Cours Florent. In recent years he has become an important player in the international design scene. Since 2021, Delcourt has created two collections for Baxter, the Italian design company known for its unique use of leather, a material he rarely uses in his own collections. We met Delcourt in his Paris showroom to find out more about his relationship to Italian design, his love for horses, and the significance of color shocks.