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?
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.

It’s definitely chic & will drop by there soon! thanks for the post, we really miss u guys here & hope is well! 😀
Hi Lydia! Thanks for dropping by my blog sweety! We miss you guys too! When are you visiting? =) Enjoy shopping in Le Souq!
le souqqqq..i’ve been wanting to go there since i read at chuzai living…love love love…
this reading make me happy 🙂 just to look at the pict and the selection of the stuff
Hi Antonia, I say you should definitely go for it. Make a day out of it and eat delicious food in Sala, the quaint but superb resto beside it.
Lovely photos!! I miss the shop! I love the new selections that the shop has especially in the basement!! I have one buddha candle, but I haven’t been able to brave myself to light it yet! 🙂
Hey Kaho, I can totally relate to you about not wanting to light pretty candles. I have to remind myself to spend out. I have some candles that are so old the scent disappeared haha! I hope you find a nice occasion to light your buddha candle!