Where can one find the perfect keepsake/souvenir – that is both useful and stylish – of Jakarta?  LE SOUQ was the perfect place for me before we left Jakarta, our post for four years.  One of my souvenirs of The Big Durian was literally Durian-shaped, haha!  I love this store because of the unique, quirky designs and reasonable prices (for Jakarta standards).  This is mainly a photoblog, so you can see the kind and style of items they have for sale.

This shop has so many chic items and eclectic styles that it can be quite overwhelming – so many colours, textures and shapes! The first time I went, I didn’t buy anything because I was just on cute-ness overload – I was practically hyperventilating with excitement! The lady who owns the store, Mira Noordhoek Hegt, had the brilliant idea to have symbols of Jakarta drawn and then she placed them in framed prints, greeting cards and even ceramic pieces (this is a one time project so very limited supply). 

Here are the sample of the ceramics, called The Big Durian Collection, from serving plates to espresso cups and teapots. I got the teapot because it’s a great conversation piece that I can use when I host tea. You can see that the images are images that would bring memories of Jakarta flooding back. The perfect souvenir for someone who was posted to Jakarta (like me!).

The other souvenir I bought is the Durian jar, the perfect souvenir and symbol of The Big Durian! It’s made of wood and available in different attractive colors. Guess what color I got?!? The white one, of course!

She has a wide assortment of lampshades and throw pillow cases. If you are looking for unique prints, this is the place to go.

How cute are these Buddha candles?

The owner of store also loves African-inspired prints/design.

At the very back of the store you will find stairs going to the basement. Yes, you heard me – there is still so much more! There are two levels in the shop. The stairs are very steep so if you are afraid of heights or have problems climbing, this is something to consider carefully. I am not usually afraid of heights much but I was holding on to the banister for dear life. I was very determined to go down and take pictures for the blog! =)

I just love everything in the store! It’s too bad our container was full already. I still pine for the white Buddha lamps with neutral and white lampshades. Just divine!

I feel that the items are priced well – for the quality and look, it’s quite affordable. For those who love this chic aesthetic and have an eye for prints, this is definitely worth braving  Kemang macet (traffic) for!

What do you think of Le Souq? Did anything in the photos above catch your eye?

The design of the products distinguishes itself by a unique mix of different styles and cultures. The owner of Le Souq has travelled the world and lived in Europe, the US, Africa and Asia. She has assembled a collection of interior design products that reflects the best of all of these worlds.

Next to using high quality materials and trendy designs, we try to give your interior some “joie de vivre”, some fun, in order to give it a heart. This style of “Happy Chic” interior decorating is already well known in Europe and The United States. We think Jakarta is ready for “The New Chic”. Your home is the most important place on earth in these hectic times:it should have a luxurious feel, you should feel comfortable in it and it should put a smile on your face, too!

LE SOUQ INTERIOR DECORATING

+62 (0)21-7195672

Jl. Kemang Raya no. 72 lot K, Jakarta Selatan, 12730, Indonesia

Directions: It is very near this famous restaurant in Kemang and park inside the parking area, because it is in the same compound. The facade is pictured below.

GOOD TO KNOW: If you are purchasing alot of items, especially newly arrived expats, there is a discount for bulk purchases.