Inviting Us Into Her Elegant Home Marie Guerlain Talks Fine Art, Food And Her Famous French Fragrance Family

An eye for beauty and a nose for the sweet smell of success are part of Marie Guerlain’s DNA. The great-great-great-granddaughter of Pierre-François Pascal Guerlain, founder of the legendary French perfume, cosmetics and skincare house, has forged a successful path in her own right as a respected artist and nutrition health coach: passions she combines with raising her three young sons by financier husband Shane Desai.

The family lives in a leafy suburb of southwest London in a home that is a testament to her highly creative sense of style.

“We moved here to be slightly outside central London and we love it,” says Marie, 42. “There’s more space and peace, plus plenty of parks.”

Decorating it remains a work in progress, but Marie is enjoying seeking out new inspiration, with Pinterest and interior design websites proving invaluable.

“I like art deco but wouldn’t want a house that’s completely of that style,” says the dynamic entrepreneur. “I love individual pieces that are made in India or Thailand or eclectic bits such as wicker baskets, then mix them with a contemporary look.”

Born in Paris and raised in Chelsea, Marie attended schools in London and Switzerland and enjoyed an “earthy, very normal childhood”. “We rode our bikes and built huts – normal kids’ stuff. We played in the woods and swam – that’s how we grew up. It was not what people think – God knows what people think,” she smiles. “My parents are very low key, very French; homely cooking and family.”

PASSION FOR PERFUME