Cocolis opens the doors to the Bazaar of Algiers!

We are very happy to introduce you to an exceptional partner who uses Cocolis every day: The Bazaar of Algiers. This unique decorative items e-commerce site invites you to rethink your preconceptions about your grandparents' tableware. Through this interview, discover an entrepreneur, Arnold, capable of transforming a forgotten old plate into an exceptional object. Ready for immersion? Let's go!

Gold at your fingertips

Could you introduce yourself and your business in a few words?

My name is Arnold d’Alger and I am the founder of the Bazaar of Algiers, an e-commerce site that showcases some of my hand-decorated creations in tableware, tiles, and silk. The Bazaar of Algiers is also a workshop that allows you to personalise vintage tableware found at flea markets or brought in by customers themselves. Before starting this new entrepreneurial adventure, I was a freelance graphic designer and illustrator. It was a strong and persistent desire to pick up my paintbrushes again that motivated me to open the Bazaar of Algiers last year.

Why do you use only gold paint?

It’s both a practical and aesthetic choice. Gold allows, in fact, (at low temperature and/or without a stainless steel cover) for hand-painted porcelain to be dishwasher safe without affecting the quality of the illustrations. But above all, it also enhances and personalises very simple, plain white tableware. This is especially important when it comes to second-hand items, found at flea markets or on resale sites like LeBonCoin.

Bringing grandma’s tableware back to life

Why did you choose to use reclaimed materials?

I like the idea of making objects last and beautifying things that would otherwise be thrown away or stored in boxes indefinitely. Giving a recycled object a higher purpose than its original use is called upcycling or surcycling. I fully embrace this principle, which is rooted in the circular economy.

How do you source the tableware in question?

I hunt: whether it’s on the Internet and its second-hand resale sites or at flea markets. For a long time, I limited my search for raw materials to the Paris region, then I discovered Cocolis.

Cocolis, the ideal partner

I find the concept of Cocolis very clever. I love the idea of using existing journeys to transport the raw materials I need! Arnold d’Alger

How did you discover Cocolis?

Out of necessity. I had just bought a complete set in the Alps and the seller did not want to send it by so-called traditional carriers. So I looked for solutions: renting a car, taking a train... And then, after searching the Internet, I found Cocolis!

What does using Cocolis allow you to do?

Since I discovered Cocolis, I have expanded my search for raw materials to all of France. Without leaving home and at very attractive prices, I have been able to collect tableware from all over the country.

I find the concept of Cocolis very clever and I love the idea of using existing journeys to transport the raw materials I need!

Since I started using Cocolis, I have only come across highly rated carriers, and those ratings are well deserved. Finally, I must say that the insurance with MAIF is reassuring.

Do you have any news you’d like to share with the Cocolis community?

I have just launched workshops for those who want to try porcelain painting. Lasting 3 hours, they are held in groups of 2 to 12 people in a great atmosphere.

Discover all of Arnold’s new creations on his Instagram account. He will be sure to add a touch of beauty to your daily life. To place an order, book a workshop or buy a unique piece, visit the website bazardalger.com.