Week No. 256
A seaside escape, the unofficial scent of a New York summer, and a reminder to lean into your niche
Stay of the Week


A Seaside Escape
In the sun-soaked town of Hyères on the French Riviera, Hotel Lilou is the kind of escape that feels like a secret. Once a 19th-century aristocratic retreat, the town is finding new life and Lilou is at the heart of it. Paris-based Studio Haddou-Dufourcq restored the hotel’s 1930s facade, layering in soft geometry, rattan textures, and a neutral palette that captures the Côte d’Azur glow. Its 37 rooms nod to the region’s Moorish influence, with arched doorways and sculptural ceilings that invite you to slow down. From the trellis-shaded restaurant to the straw-canopied library, Lilou is designed for lingering. If you’re craving a summer getaway with soul and style, this is your spot.
Brand of the Week


The Unofficial Scent of a New York Summer
If you’re staying local this summer, we found just the thing to help you romanticize your experience: Queens Perennial. It’s a 10-week run of farm-fresh flowers for $230 total ($23 a week), starting next week (April 28) and running through mid-November. The blooms come exclusively from Luna Family Farm, which is owned and operated by immigrant farmers—a detail we love. For flower enthusiasts who’ve tried subscriptions like Botanical Brothers (see: Week No. 221) but found themselves missing the in-person ritual of picking up the flowers, this might be your thing. Queens Perennial has several neighborhood pick-up spots, most of them located inside cute coffee shops or cafés. We’re calling this the unofficial scent of a New York summer.
Story of the Week

A Reminder to Lean Into Your Niche
We loved this article on HURs that highlights the power of embracing your niche. In a world where we’re constantly told to do more, be everywhere, say yes to everything, this article is a breath of fresh air. Whether you're building a brand, growing an agency, or just navigating the chaos of everyday life, there's something powerful (and dare we say, cool) about staying true to your lane. It’s not always easy, distraction is everywhere, but this quick, well-written read is a great nudge to double down on what makes you different. Mastering your niche isn’t about playing small; it’s about playing smart. And as this piece reminds us, that’s where the real magic happens.