My Bike on at Merci

Images: Merci

Text: Anne S. Ditmeyer

In recent years in the design community, bikes have been far more than a means to get from point A to B, but part of a style lifestyle. With more choices and accessories than ever, one's bike can be a means of expression. Put a bike into context, and depending on where you live – Copenhagen or Amsterdam – a bike is a necessity of life. But now, in other places of the world, such as Tokyo, there's a movement to live life at a different pace, with an emphasis on quality of life, known as SLOW BIKE.

The timing of Merci's installation, MY BIKE: Transportation Dans la Ville, on January 18 through February 18, is noteworthy, as this past week was the latest edition of the mega design trade show, Maison Objet. Design is not limited to what is in one's home, but rather extends to the world outside (and beyond the expo center).

In typical Merci fashion, their signature red car out from is incorporated into the theme, with an upside down bike on the roof. Go inside, and a ring of massive lights hangs overhead, with several stylish bikes and mannequins below. The main display wall to the right uses tools to create "art" where strong geometrical shapes emerge. Throughout the lower lobby, small accessories from locks to bells and bungees are available for your shopping needs. Unlike most of their installations, this one takes over more of the space and weaves its way upstairs with suspended bikes along a race track, juxtaposed to the cupboards just to the side.

By the end of the visit, you start to see the bicycle as a multi-functional objet. As I was rushing through before it closed, I almost missed my favorite room – just to the left of the check out stand. After seeing bikes, accessories, and mannequins, these portraits (for sale) by Vincent Leroux seemed to capture the very spirit that is the bicycle in design-meets-life these days.

Merci is a constantly changing concept shop with three cafés, located at 111 boulevard Beaumarchais 75003. Store hours are Monday – Saturday 10am - 7pm.