Serge’s new florist shop, Queen of Flowers, is a petit piece of Paris at 115 Macleay Street, Potts Point. It is one of four shops, the others being at Woollahra, Paddington and Darlinghurst, and only opened last week.

The emphasis is on roses, also known as the queen of flowers, and is also the provenance of the shop’s name. Orchids and other flowers are also proudly prominent.

Inside it is bursting with blooms and chic French decorative elements.

Elegant Lalique and Baccarat crystal vases sit poignantly on especially imported marble and wrought iron tables with an original 18th century oil painting of Madam Pompadour reflected in original 18th century gold leaf mirrors.

The beauty of the decor is only equaled by the perfume from the roses. Each rose variety is unique, some emitting aromas of watermelon, and others visually enticing such as the Queen Elizabeth rose in salmon hues.

Outside, French flower carts are displayed just as they are on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, the smartest address in Paris.

Serge, the owner, lives locally and has been a florist for over 40 years having previously been a banker. He and the shop manager, Peter, employ 6-8 staff to keep the flowers fresh across the four outlets. They recommend a tablespoon of bleach to maintain the quality of the water and the longevity of the blooms.

They frown on the use of using paints to artificially maintain colouring. “Petals should not be painted”, they say.

They have been warmly embraced by locals and are pleased to add to the local style and the “Paris end” of Macleay Street. They live and think locally.

“Every flower is a soul blossoming in nature,” said the French writer, Gérard de Nerval, a sentiment they endorse.

Flowers bring beauty, healing and happiness to any environment  and provide a cleansing catharsis to our hectic, high-octane humdrum suburban living.

Queen of Flowers

115 Macleay Street Potts Point

Hours 8am to 7pm seven days a week

Ph 0424 425 535

By Andrew Woodhouse

Heritage Solutions