About Us
The Story Behind the Collection
BARAN de BORDEAUX is a New Zealand-based antiques dealer specialising in authentic French pieces. With a distinctive eye for patina, character, and enduring design, we source and import one-of-a-kind items that bring depth and warmth to contemporary interiors. Every piece is personally selected in France and imported with care – offering clients direct access to some of the most beautiful antiques in the world.
Our Story
BARAN de BORDEAUX was founded in 2000 by Chrystelle Baran, who was born and raised in Bordeaux, in southwest France. After many years collecting antiques for her own enjoyment, Chrystelle began sourcing pieces for others with the help of her partner, Nick Ferneyhough. Their first container sold out within weeks; a second was underway soon after.
For more than two decades, Chrystelle has lived between France and New Zealand, developing a strong reputation for her eye, her knowledge, and her instinct for how old pieces can transform a home. Together, she and Nick continue to lead the business today.
A Hands-On Approach
All sourcing is done in person during regular buying trips to France. Rather than rely on suppliers or intermediaries, Chrystelle and Nick select each piece themselves, choosing only objects of genuine quality and interest.
There is no set formula. Some pieces are refined and rare; others are rustic, timeworn, or unexpected. But all are chosen because they have something to say. Whether it’s the elegance of a Louis XVI commode or the quiet charm of a 19th-century garden urn, each item carries a sense of place, history, and beauty.
People often think that using antiques will create a fussy, formal interior. We show them that good French pieces will do quite the opposite. The enduring international appeal of genuine French antiques is their lightness and decorative quality that is perfectly at home in any New Zealand interior, contemporary or otherwise.
Chrystelle Baran, On Living with Antiques
A Reputation for Trust
BARAN de BORDEAUX is a member of the New Zealand Antique Dealers’ Association (NZADA), and remains the only NZADA-accredited dealer working exclusively with French antiques. This affiliation reflects the company’s commitment to authenticity, honesty, and transparency. Every item is sold for exactly what it is – nothing more, nothing less.
We are also New Zealand’s sole representative of de Gournay, makers of the world’s finest hand-painted wallpapers.
In the Press
BARAN de BORDEAUX has been profiled in numerous publications over the years. Selected features include:
A Coastal Barn: French Soul on the Coromandel Peninsula
ArchiPro, October 2025
Story About Our Auckland Home
Simply You, March 2019
“What Sex Appeal Means to Chrystelle Baran”
VIVA / NZ Herald, August 2016
Luxury Special Cover Shoot
VIVA / NZ Herald, July 2016
“Bringing a Piece of France to NZ”
NZ Herald, July 2015
Chrystelle’s Paris Shopping Tips
Fashion Quarterly, November 2014
Story About BARAN de BORDEAUX
World Magazine, September 2012
Story About Our French Home
Life & Leisure, November 2008
Story About Our Auckland Home
Simply You Living, May 2008
New stock arrives regularly, and each shipment brings something unexpected. If you are in Auckland, we welcome you to visit our store and explore the collection in person. For updates on arrivals and special finds, join our mailing list or follow us on Instagram.