For an inspiration trip, a city like Lille does not initially come to mind. Yet we think that in terms of inspiration, this city can easily compete with cities like Tilburg, Rotterdam, Hamburg and Copenhagen. The clients we recently went there with were pleasantly surprised.
Translating insights to one's own organization
Inspiration journeys are always part of our vision projects for organizations, brands or environments. The goal is to broaden people's horizons and gain relevant inspiration outside their own industry. In the next stage of our vision projects, we translate the experiences and insights gained into our own organization. That is why it is important to choose radar cities, cities that are at the forefront when it comes to new developments. And Lille is a good example of that.
The emptiness of wealth
The northern French city of Lille, called Lille in Dutch, has a rich history in the textile industry. In addition to several industrial buildings that have been successfully repurposed, we find the huge homes of textile barons in the suburbs, including the modernist villa of Paul Cavrois. Here the French architect Robert Mallet-Stevens shows how far ahead of his time he was in the early 1930s. At the same time, this villa also (unintentionally) communicates the emptiness of wealth.
The historic center of Lille also has much to offer its visitors. The façade of the Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral is special, but be sure to go inside and admire this entrance from the inside. A popular green spot for strolling or exercising is the Parc de la Citadelle. And in terms of retail, there are many quaint little stores in the quaint streets such as Benoit Chocolatier, Love Stories Archive, Leica Store, Boutique Bellerose, Racambole, Dona Bica (be sure to go inside to taste their specialty) and Des Fleurs de Jean-Louis. In fact, too many to mention. A latest addition to Lille is the experiential hotel Mama Shelter. A new trendy hotspot where guests and residents of Lille can eat, drink, dance and play table soccer.
Flowerpot and Beer Belly
Culinary delights are also plentiful here. It is striking that two of the most popular restaurants have Dutch and rather unusual names: Bloempot and Bierbuik. Don't let that fool you, because all your senses will be pleasantly stimulated. The richness of the region is central in these restaurants with local products coming from organic and biodynamic agriculture and wild farming.
A visit to Lille should not include Roubaix. France's poorest city is of course known for the classic Paris-Roubaix, also called the hell of the North. Here you will find the new Vélodrome, but if you enter the shower room in the old Vélodrome, which is still in use, you will find yourself on holy ground. Another reason not to ignore Roubaix: la piscine. This former bathhouse is now a wonderful museum, where the beauty of the building and the art enhance each other. And if you want delicious and sustainable lunch at a fair price, the cooperative restaurant Baraka comes highly recommended.
In short, be surprised in and around Lille!
By Matt van der Poel, Partner & Chief eXperience Officer
