From the Banister to a Bed Nook, Curves Are Everywhere in This Paris Apartment

In Paris, BETH X EPISTĒMĒ STUDIO transformed a 248-square-foot (23-square-meter) studio apartment into a minimalist and functional living space. The design prioritizes efficiency and aesthetic appeal, demonstrating how small spaces can be optimized without sacrificing comfort or style. The central element of the apartment is a custom-built, raised platform made of okoumé wood. This platform serves multiple functions, integrating a sleeping area, a dining table or desk, and concealed storage. Its adaptable nature maximizes flexibility while maintaining an uncluttered floor plan. A notable feature of the raised platform is the built-in table, which draws inspiration from Japanese zataku, designed for floor seating. However, it incorporates a modern ergonomic adjustment: the platform is raised high enough to allow occupants to dangle their feet comfortably, improving comfort during meals or work sessions. This detail blends traditional design principles with contemporary needs. Every component within the apartment is custom-designed to enhance efficiency and maintain design cohesion. For instance, a bookshelf seamlessly transitions into a headboard, while a retractable desk can be tucked away into a storage module when not in use. Additionally, a wall-mounted Murphy bed further conserves space, allowing the apartment to transform with ease. These integrated solutions create an intentional and balanced interior, where each element serves multiple purposes without contributing to visual clutter. The material palette for the apartment is soft and natural, featuring light-toned wood, polished concrete, matte plywood, and aged brass. These materials create a calming and serene environment with a tactile quality. Linear lighting and clean architectural lines enhance the clarity of the space, promoting an open feel without making the area seem rigid or impersonal. Instead of using conventional walls to divide the compact apartment, BETH X EPISTĒMĒ STUDIO utilized built-in storage solutions and subtle shifts in surface levels to delineate different zones. Light is employed as a guiding element, facilitating movement and visually connecting various areas, contributing to an uninterrupted flow throughout the space. The design successfully avoids the common pitfall of minimalist interiors appearing sterile. Instead, it embodies a warm minimalism, influenced by Japanese aesthetics and the serene qualities of desert landscapes. The apartment achieves a cocoon-like atmosphere, offering its resident a sense of quiet comfort while remaining highly adaptable to evolving needs. This project exemplifies how small-scale design can be both functional and human-centric, balancing precision with softness to create a harmonious living environment. #ParisianApartment #StudioDesign #MinimalistInterior #SmallSpaceLiving #FunctionalDesign #CustomFurniture #JapaneseAesthetics #BethXEpistemeStudio #HomeDecor

This blog post showcases a meticulously redesigned Paris apartment, measuring 895 square feet (83 square meters), which exemplifies sophisticated small-space planning. The article details how interior designer Lichelle Silvestry transformed the compact 1909 building into a luxurious and elegant pied-à-terre without compromising on style. The redesign process began with a client's favorite painting, purchased at the Marché aux Puces, which subsequently dictated the apartment's warm color palette. This palette includes sienna, terracotta, plum, rose, and ivory, accented with black for contrast and depth. The living room, despite its modest size, has been cleverly configured to accommodate two distinct seating areas. One area features a bespoke sienna-colored curved sofa, oriented for television viewing, complemented by a unique dark bronze light sculpture designed by Philippe Antonioz, which serves as a central art piece. The other side of the living room adopts a more intimate, boudoir-like ambiance with a custom pink tête-à-tête sofa and two white armchairs arranged around a fireplace. A whimsical touch is added by a white taxidermy peacock named Psyche. The importance of texture is highlighted, with materials like bronze, silk, mohair, linen, velvet, heavy-veined marble, sisal, and jute used to create an illusion of spaciousness and luxury. Custom-made wool and jute rugs by Manufacture Pinton and Dedar fabrics further enhance the tactile experience. Innovative space-saving solutions are evident throughout the apartment. A discreet home office area is integrated into a corner of the living room, demonstrating that functional workspaces can blend seamlessly with the decor. The dining and kitchen areas are separated by a smart paneled and glazed partition wall, reminiscent of a traditional butler's pantry. This partition allows the kitchen to be visually distinct yet harmonious with the adjacent dining space. The dining nook itself features a striking terracotta corner banquette, a contemporary round dining table, and a mirrored backsplash, which amplifies the sense of space. The kitchen is designed with ivory cabinetry to maintain a cohesive aesthetic with the living areas. Despite its small footprint, it includes luxurious elements such as a Lacanche stove and calacatta viola countertops and backsplash. The guest bedroom provides a calm, sophisticated retreat with a neutral palette of ivory and black, while the gilt-framed painting subtly nods to its Parisian setting. The primary bedroom offers a more personalized design, inspired by the client's preference for vintage kimonos and birds. It features De Gournay wallpaper, an Ochre chandelier with Limoges porcelain tiers, and custom-made headboards, bedding, and decorative pillows in Rubelli and Dedar fabrics, with curtains and trimmings by Pierre Frey. The en-suite bathroom combines contemporary black tiles and a freestanding tub with the building's original period window and wrought-iron balcony, creating a balanced blend of old and new. The design choices collectively contribute to an impression of spaciousness and understated French sophistication, successfully addressing the challenges of limited space with thoughtful design and luxurious materials. #ParisApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeTour #LichelleSilvestry #SpacePlanning #FrenchStyle #ElegantInteriors

Maria Santos, founder of a renowned interior design studio established in 2015, presents a tour of her personal apartment in Madrid. Known for a timeless design approach that honors classical architecture while integrating modern elements, Santos emphasizes the use of natural materials to craft bright, functional, and relaxed spaces. Her Madrid residence serves as a prime example of her signature style, characterized by a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics. The apartment, originally an old and dimly lit property with numerous small rooms, underwent a complete renovation. Santos describes the process as challenging, particularly the decision-making for her own home, which she found more difficult than designing for clients. The extensive renovation involved new installations throughout and a significant re-arrangement of rooms; for instance, a former bedroom now functions as the kitchen, and the previous kitchen has been transformed into a bedroom. The completed apartment now boasts four bedrooms, two living rooms, a dining room, a kitchen, and a dressing room. A central challenge during the renovation stemmed from the property's age and poor condition of some walls. The kitchen, in particular, presented difficulties as it was initially a small, dark bedroom lacking any existing fittings. This transformation highlights the designer's ability to reimagine and restructure a space entirely. The chosen color palette reflects Santos's classic-modern style, with a predominantly white base punctuated by green accents to ensure continuity across the rooms. Texture is introduced through natural materials such as wood and stone, while textiles, furnishings, and accessories add splashes of color. The furnishings represent a mix of pieces from her previous home, new antique acquisitions, and custom-made items. Santos's forthcoming antique shop, Bingutti, is the source for many of the antique furnishings. She intentionally contrasts furniture from different eras, incorporating original Saarinen tulip chairs, Joe Colombo chairs, and a large antique French dining table. Key areas of the apartment are meticulously detailed. The entrance hall features an antique French table adorned with Chinese blue porcelain vases and a painting by Hugo Alonso, designed to ground the transient space. The kitchen, a favorite room, seamlessly connects to the dining area. Notable discoveries during renovation include two columns near the kitchen island, which were integrated into the design. The living room showcases a custom white linen sofa, an Italian antique marble coffee table, a painting by Zobel, and an antique French table, complemented by Joe Colombo's bold green chairs and a zebra carpet. In the dining room, personal paintings from Santos's architecture studies adorn the wall, alongside a French antique crystal chandelier and wall lights, contrasting with the Saarinen tulip chairs. The main bedroom is furnished with a gold metal chair and a French antique chandelier, creating a glamorous boudoir feel, balanced by Daphine table lamps by Lumina and a painting by Eduardo Lalanne. The children's bedroom features a distinctive wooden bed, adding grandeur and warmth. The photography for the feature was done by Montse Garriga. #MadridApartment #InteriorDesign #MariaSantos #HomeRenovation #ClassicModernStyle #AntiqueFurniture #NaturalMaterials #EuropeanDesign

This article highlights the remarkable transformation of a Paris apartment, meticulously redesigned by the interior design studio Uchronia, founded by Julien Sebban. The project’s objective was to convert a classic Haussmann apartment, which, despite its elegant proportions and original features, was perceived as 'cold, pretentious and beige,' into a vibrant, 'architectural jewellery box.' The clients, a couple working in couture jewellery, provided Uchronia with a distinctive brief inspired by Fabergé eggs, aiming for a home that would reveal a 'treasure trove of jewels.' The redesign centered on injecting personality and color, moving away from the apartment's former staid aesthetic. Uchronia meticulously integrated various gemstones as a guiding principle for the design, selecting malachite, sapphire, opal, pearl, ruby, tiger-eye, and peridot for their unique colors, patterns, and textures. These choices influenced the specific ambiance and decor of each room, creating a cohesive yet diverse interior narrative. The studio's approach involved a significant amount of experimentation, particularly in developing custom dégradé walls in collaboration with Atelier Roma. This innovative technique creates an ethereal background, with color gradients that seamlessly merge into sheer silk curtains, producing a dynamic and 'alive' effect as they flutter. Beyond color and texture, the apartment's functionality was reimagined to accommodate the clients' social lifestyle, with a focus on creating convivial zones suitable for both intimate gatherings and large parties. The layout of the apartment was largely maintained, preserving its inherent Haussmann elegance, while custom furniture, drapery, vintage pieces, and art were introduced to redefine the spaces. Noteworthy design elements include low-level seating in the living room, inspired by Moroccan desert nights, and a dressing room strategically positioned to allow interaction with guests from the adjacent platform bed. The dining room features a unique marbled resin table, designed by Julien, which evokes malachite and can be reconfigured from a two-person setting to accommodate up to twenty guests. Lighting plays a crucial role in the apartment's design, with light being refracted through various materials such as fabric and colored glass, and bouncing off lacquered surfaces. This deliberate manipulation of light creates an effect akin to being inside a fantastical kaleidoscope, contributing to the apartment's overall enchanting and dynamic atmosphere. The project underscores Uchronia's innovative approach to interior design, blending historical elegance with contemporary vibrancy and bespoke craftsmanship to fulfill a highly imaginative client brief. #ParisApartment #UchroniaDesign #ColorDrenching #OmbreWalls #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #GemstoneInspired #CustomFurniture #HaussmannApartment

Colombo and Serboli Architecture (CaSA) undertook the renovation of a 65-square-metre apartment located in a 13th-century residential building in Barcelona's historic El Born neighborhood. The client, a young Italian woman working in fashion, sought to incorporate additional storage and a new guest bathroom into the property. The original layout was dark and compartmentalized, with two street-facing bedrooms and one near the entrance obstructing natural light from reaching the central communal areas. CaSA initiated the renovation by demolishing all existing partition walls to open up the space, highlighting the four-meter-high ceilings and large balcony windows. To provide separation between the entranceway and the main living area, a full-height navy blue storage unit was installed. This unit features a contrasting pink display niche and a doorway, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes for storing clothes and other belongings. The adjacent living and dining area is distinguished by a coral-colored arched volume. This architectural element cleverly conceals the guest toilet, which is finished with blush-toned tiles and a circular mirror. The architects chose an arch shape for this volume to preserve the feeling of height in the living room, ensuring it almost touches the wooden beamed ceilings without creating dark or dusty corners that a full-height or half-height volume might have. The design's arched motif extends to the kitchen, where a curved breakfast island is topped with a terrazzo-like surface made from flecked quartz. The remainder of the kitchen and living spaces maintain a bright and airy atmosphere, characterized by oak flooring and whitewashed walls. A pale grey sofa from the Danish design brand Hay complements the contemporary aesthetic. A significant challenge of the project was structural. Over time, non-load-bearing walls had acquired structural value. Their removal, necessary to restore the apartment's grand spaces, necessitated the installation of steel beams to reinforce parts of the ancient structure. This intervention allowed the architects to emphasize the original architectural elements while enhancing the newly created open spaces and their proportions. The original woodwork of the apartment's window shutters was also meticulously restored. This project showcases CaSA's expertise in transforming historic properties. Based in Barcelona, the firm has completed several other notable projects in the city, including a co-working space in the Baró de Viver area where they integrated storage systems and various space-saving solutions. The renovation of the El Born apartment effectively blends historical context with modern functionality and vibrant design choices, addressing the client's needs for increased storage and a more open, brighter living environment. #BarcelonaApartment #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #StorageSolutions #ColorfulInteriors #HistoricRenovation #ArchitecturalArches #SpaceOptimization #ElBorn

Iñigo Berasategui and Ane Arce, partners from the Bilbao-based architecture firm AZAB, embarked on a gut renovation of their new condo, which featured a semicircular floor plan. The building, designed by Spanish architect Hilario Imaz, is a typical 1960s bourgeois housing unit, originally configured with a conventional series of rooms connected by a corridor. Despite its dated appearance, the couple recognized the apartment's potential, particularly its light-filled corner location and unique curved layout, which also posed a design challenge. The architects worked with a budget of 45,000 euros, including furniture and kitchen appliances, to transform the 969-square-foot flat. Their objective was to create a flexible, open space that embraced the building's curves. To achieve this, all interior walls were removed, resulting in one expansive open area. This decision was driven by an exploration of new ways to experience domestic space and was heavily inspired by Marcel Duchamp's Readymades, a concept that lent its name to the project: the Ready-Made Home. A key aspect of the renovation involved the reuse of existing materials and the incorporation of DIY techniques. For instance, Nero Marquina marble, originally used as kitchen flooring, was repurposed for the kitchen's edge and as a backsplash in the main bathroom. A former white marble kitchen countertop was upcycled into a table positioned behind the sofa, further illustrating the project's Duchampian and DIY ethos. Color played a crucial role in the redesign. Long, light-blue curtains, a bold pale-pink range hood, and a bright-yellow steel frame supporting the shelving system were strategically introduced. Berasategui explained that the fresh color palette was intended to highlight objects and soften the overall aesthetic, with a creamy tone for the background and a gradient of colors from pink to blue to draw attention to furniture and elements over the architecture. Even the front entrance features intentional patches of olive green paint, creating an unfinished look that raises questions about the definition of a completed home and suggests ongoing evolution. Additional design elements include birch plywood boards used for both kitchen cabinetry and living room flooring, reinforcing the DIY aesthetic. The expansive shelving system, suspended from a bright-yellow steel frame, reflects the couple's love for books. Berasategui also mentioned inspirations from “the atmosphere of the Factory and the first houses of Frank Gehry,” emphasizing a lighthearted, playful liberation that defines the home's spirit. The project successfully transformed a conventional 1960s apartment into a modern, flexible, and art-inspired living space. #ApartmentRenovation #OpenFloorPlan #BilbaoArchitecture #AZABArchitects #DuchampInspired #DIYDesign #RepurposedMaterials #ColorPalette #ModernLiving

The primary suite of the Hilltop Estate project is designed with a focus on creating a relaxing and warm atmosphere. The walls are painted in Swiss Coffee by Dunn Edwards, a color chosen for its warm white and creamy undertones, contributing to the serene ambiance of the space. A design challenge presented by an off-centered floor plan, which positioned the bed off-center relative to the light fixture, was addressed through an asymmetrical arrangement of bedside furniture. Instead of attempting to force symmetry with matching nightstands, the design incorporated a single nightstand on one side and a larger chest of drawers or a desk on the opposite side. To unify the differing heights of these pieces, a task light was placed on the taller side, its height aligned with a table lamp on the other side, effectively creating visual balance despite the asymmetry. The primary suite's bed is a central design element, featuring a custom canopy bed upholstered in a striped blue and cream fabric. The bedding combines various patterns and textures, utilizing soft linens and velvets. To introduce a contrasting visual element, vintage block print pillows in a bold reddish-orange hue were added, providing a 'punch' against the softer color palette of the bed and room. The primary bathroom is conceptualized as a beautiful and calming space, with design elements that incorporate a touch of glam as per the client's preference. Ornate paneling is integrated throughout the room's shell to achieve this elegant aesthetic. The flooring consists of smooth limestone, setting a neutral and refined base for the space. The color scheme of the bathroom predominantly features creams and warm whites, enhancing the serene and luxurious feel. A vintage patterned rug, with tones of olive and blue, is introduced to provide a subtle 'pop' of color that contrasts with the surrounding creamy hues. The vanity in the bathroom is detailed with reeded drawer fronts and hardware that includes 'coining' details, which are ridges carved into the metal edges, contributing to the vanity's sophisticated appearance. The countertops are crafted from Calcutta marble, adding a luxurious and classic touch to the overall design. The integration of these elements in both the primary suite and bathroom reflects a cohesive design strategy aimed at combining comfort, elegance, and practical solutions for design challenges, all while adhering to the client's aesthetic preferences. #HilltopEstate #PrimarySuite #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #BedroomDecor #AsymmetricalDesign #ColorPalette #TextileMixing #LuxuryInteriors

This article highlights an apartment designed by UR Bureau, which transforms a minimalist white space into a vibrant home using a kaleidoscopic gradient of colors. Architect Rustem Urazmetov's design philosophy questioned the use of a single color when a full spectrum could be incorporated. The result is a dynamic interior where shades of green, turquoise, blue, and purple are seamlessly integrated throughout each room, creating a cohesive yet visually stimulating environment. The main living space exemplifies this approach, with color transitions flowing from the kitchen into the dining areas and extending into the living room. Custom furniture pieces, such as a built-in purple banquet in a casual dining area and a double-sided sofa that gradually changes from turquoise to bright green, are key elements in establishing these color gradients. The design maintains a minimalist aesthetic by employing white walls and ceilings, along with pale grey floors, which serve as a neutral backdrop allowing the vibrant colors to take prominence without overwhelming the space. Large windows ensure the interior is filled with natural light, enhancing the luminosity and vibrancy of the hues. Beyond the color gradients, subtle graphic patterns on some surfaces introduce an additional layer of texture and visual interest, contributing to the overall sophisticated design. This meticulous attention to detail extends to other areas of the apartment, including the bathrooms and bedrooms, ensuring that the colorful theme is consistently applied throughout the home. Each bedroom features its own unique gradient color scheme, complemented by geometric accents that provide distinct character to individual spaces. For instance, the primary bedroom showcases a transition from blue to turquoise, with soft wall panels serving as a headboard that ingeniously extends to form a sofa. The closet in this room is enveloped in a bold blue, continuing onto the ceiling and floor, and features a distinctive rounded corner, adding a touch of architectural flair. The primary bathroom also embraces bold design with a vibrant purple color scheme, effectively contrasted by white surfaces and black accents. This demonstrates how even utilitarian spaces are integrated into the overall colorful design narrative. The consistent application of color gradients and thoughtful design elements across the entire apartment by UR Bureau results in a cohesive and lively living environment that challenges conventional minimalist aesthetics by embracing a rich spectrum of color. #MinimalistApartment #ColorGradient #InteriorDesign #URBureau #ModernLiving #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #VibrantColors

Architect Yacine Bensalem, founder of In Situ & Partners, led the renovation of an elegant Haussmann-style Paris apartment situated in the 16th arrondissement. The project aimed to preserve the aesthetic codes of a classic Parisian apartment while seamlessly integrating modern functionality. Drawing inspiration from the apartment’s 19th-century deeds, the renovation meticulously recreated the original rhythms of the space, adhering to Haussmannian rules while incorporating British and Asian influences inherent in the firm's design philosophy. The outcome is a sophisticated and refined living space that highlights exquisite craftsmanship through handmade finishes and custom pieces, all crafted by Italian and French artisans. Bensalem's aesthetic is evident in the subtle fusion of styles. The hallway, for instance, features leather and bronze shelves that introduce a touch of Asian glamour, a theme echoed in the Japanese-style resin shelves above the living room fireplace. Designed to mimic an outdoor space, the hallway acts as a transition zone between the private and public areas of the home, featuring lantern-style lighting and geometric marble flooring that evoke the atrium of a Parisian mansion. Despite the previous owner removing many distinctive Haussmannian elements like parquet flooring and original moldings, the apartment’s monumental entrance, high ceilings, large windows, and an incomparable view of the Eiffel Tower provided a strong foundation for imagining its original grandeur. The material and color palette were carefully selected to align with classic Haussmannian codes. Walls and ceilings were painted in natural ivory, complementing the lightly patinated herringbone oak parquet, which was chosen to convey a sense of lived-in history. The study and powder room feature dark oak paneling, reflecting British design influences. The long hallway’s flooring boasts a traditional 19th-century geometric pattern in grey, black, and white Italian marble, a motif that extends to the contemporary kitchen with contrasting grey and rust-colored wall tiles. The furniture for the living area and other spaces was a blend of custom-made pieces and curated design elements. Collaboration with skilled Italian and French artisans was crucial, ensuring that many elements were custom-made to personalize the rooms. Notable pieces include Kartell armchairs and Flos lamps, complemented by antique items such as the mirror above the dining room fireplace. The dining room also features a custom-made dining table, couch, and lighting, alongside pieces like Sinai wooden coffee tables by Cattelan Italia and a blue Febo armchair by B&B Italia. Custom rugs by GC further enhance the tailored feel of the apartment. One of the primary challenges of the project, beyond the logistical difficulties posed by the Covid pandemic, was authentically capturing the Haussmann spirit while infusing it with In Situ & Partners' unique style. Bensalem's extensive background in classical French architecture, honed during his 14 years of studying and working in Paris, proved invaluable. The project deliberately went against the prevailing trend of devaluing classical interior design, demonstrating a commitment to historical accuracy and cultural identity. The interaction with art was also a key aspect, with numerous works by Pierre Bonnefille, a Maître d'art, chosen for their poetic and contemporary representation of tradition, aligning with the project's artistic and poetic guiding principles and its deep respect for craftsmanship. #HaussmannStyle #ParisApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #InSituAndPartners #TraditionalModernMix #FrenchArchitecture #CustomCraftsmanship #ArtIntegration

This blog post explores a meticulously designed 968-square-foot duplex apartment in Milan, conceived by the architectural and interior design firm 23bassi. The apartment, situated on the penthouse level of a new building, demonstrates how innovative design solutions can transform a compact space into a highly functional and aesthetically rich home. The primary focus of the design revolves around maximizing space and integrating diverse aesthetic influences, ranging from 1980s elements to classic modern design pieces. The apartment's layout is unusual, characterized by its narrow and long structure, but benefits from abundant natural light provided by large windows. Central to the apartment's ingenious design is a disappearing round bed by Lago, a discontinued model, which serves as the focal point of the sleeping area. This bed appears to float, anchored only by a beam of light, and can be concealed behind an accordion-like metal fabric folding door by Dooor, a company famously associated with designer Gio Ponti. This design choice creates a futuristic and versatile sleeping nook that can be completely screened off and boasts its own ventilation system when closed. The sleeping area also incorporates Artemide’s Alphabet of Light lamp and practical shelving, all contributing to an 80s-inspired ambiance within this corner of the apartment. Complementing this modern feature is a Mezzachimera floor lamp by Vico Magistretti for Artemide, showcasing a blend of eras and styles. The apartment's entrance leads to a hallway equipped with custom-designed closets for practical storage, including a coat rack. An arched doorway opens into the living area, where custom cabinetry continues to seamlessly integrate essential kitchen appliances like the refrigerator and a dish drying rack. The walls in this section are adorned with a vibrant Osborne & Little wallpaper, creating a cohesive and lively aesthetic. The living space is furnished with iconic pieces from renowned designers, such as the Camaleonda sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, Superleggera chairs by Gio Ponti for Cassina, and the Vidun glass-topped table by Vico Magistretti for De Padova. Lighting fixtures throughout the apartment are also notable, featuring works from Davide Groppi, Paolo Ulian for Dilmos, and Flos. A recurring design motif across the apartment is the use of black iron frames, which delineate doors, arches, and skirting boards, adding a graphic and dramatic touch. This element is particularly striking in the bathroom area, where a series of iron and ribbed glass doors create an intricate geometric composition, enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of the service spaces. The European oak parquet flooring is accentuated with a circular white marble inlay, further highlighting these areas. The bathroom itself combines contemporary elements, such as tiles by Konstantin Grcic for Mutina, with an antique cabinet from Antichità Moglia, reflecting the homeowner’s passion for antiques. The apartment extends vertically to a terrace level, accessed via a custom white-painted iron spiral staircase. This upper level comprises an additional 484 square feet of outdoor living space. A glass-floored and walled enclosure allows natural light to filter into the living area below and serves as a small vestibule to the outdoor space. The terrace offers city views and features a small infinity pool. It is furnished with pieces from leading contemporary designers like Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, Patricia Urquiola, and Francesco Rota. An orange outdoor kitchen adds a vibrant contrast to the sleek design. The pergola-covered terrace, with its warm colors and generously sized furniture, provides a tranquil retreat amidst the urban environment. #MilanApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #DisappearingBed #CustomFurniture #ModernDesignClassics #InnovativeLiving #DuplexApartment #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorInnovation

Paris-based designer Thibaut Picard, known for his work on luxury hotels like Kasiiya Costa Rica and Hyatt Regency Morocco, took on a rare residential project for a local couple. The clients, a marketing manager and a travel brand director who frequently travel, desired their one-bedroom apartment to evoke the comfort and exclusivity of a five-star hotel suite. Picard aimed to fulfill this by incorporating design elements inspired by their travel experiences. The apartment, approximately 700 square feet, features a dramatic entrance painted in a rich blue-green hue. Picard selected this color for its theatrical quality, intending to create a distinct universe within the space. Initially, the homeowners were hesitant about such a dark color, fearing it would diminish natural light. However, strategically placed cutouts in the transitional area, which also serve as practical spots for keys, convinced them that the apartment would not lack sunlight. The substantial 12-foot ceilings of the Parisian apartment also allowed the dark color to extend throughout the hallway without making it feel overly confined. Seamlessly integrated closets, painted the same shade, blend into the wall, adding to the cohesive design. The bold color scheme extends into the private areas of the apartment. The primary bedroom is adorned in a soft peachy pink, specifically "Pink Coral by Ressource." Picard explains that this shade was chosen to create a sense of comfort and luxury, transforming the bedroom into a boudoir-like retreat. The color subtly shifts throughout the day, appearing pastel in the morning and mauve in the evening, adding dynamic character to the room. The green marbled bathroom continues the rich and sophisticated palette. A key feature of the bedroom is the hidden walk-in closet and dressing area, ingeniously concealed behind what appears to be standard picture-frame molding along one wall. This clever design element fulfills the husband's long-held wish for a secret room, a concept Picard kept in mind throughout the design process. The apartment also incorporates practical and discreet storage solutions. The dining area, which doubles as a workspace for the owners, features built-in shelves behind the marble dining table, perfect for storing art books. Additional hidden storage for tablecloths and serveware is integrated beneath the bench seat and on either side of the shelves. To preserve the apartment's original crown molding, these cabinets are designed to stop just below the full ceiling height. In contrast to the vibrant hues in other parts of the apartment, the open-concept living space adopts a quieter aesthetic with a cool white paint. This choice was made to complement the sage green dining room shelving and to provide a more serene environment where the owners can focus on their work. In the evenings, the living area transforms into a cozy retreat with a mix of sleek mid-century furniture, many pieces upholstered in velvet, offering a comfortable space for relaxation and entertaining. The homeowners recall sharing wine with neighbors during the 18-month renovation, a distant memory now that the project is complete and they can fully enjoy their transformed home. #ParisApartment #ThibautPicard #InteriorDesign #HiddenStorage #ColorPalette #LuxuryLiving #HomeTours #Renovation #MidCenturyModern

The Whistling Well, led by founder and principal designer Milena Bica-Shibata, undertook the task of transforming an expansive yet outdated Manhattan apartment into a modern sanctuary for a family of three. The design focused on creating a home that supports the family's lifestyle, which includes frequent hosting and communal meals. The 1,800-square-foot apartment now features three bedrooms and baths, alongside generous communal areas such as a lounge and living room, all designed to foster tranquility and connection. Bica-Shibata emphasized the careful selection of natural materials to achieve harmony and a variety of textures and temperatures throughout the space. The chosen materials include stained oak, ash, leathered quartzite, linen, leather, wool, brass, artisan ceramic tile, marbles, and warm tinted glass. This diverse material palette is complemented by a balanced scheme of cool and warm colors, creating a dynamic yet serene aesthetic. The design incorporates clean lines and rounded edges, contributing to a soft and inviting atmosphere. A custom wood ceiling trim in the living room serves to balance the space and draw the eye upwards, adding architectural interest. This wooden element extends into the kitchen and a custom-designed bar area. The bar was specifically conceived as a continuation of the perimeter millwork, seamlessly transitioning into the eat-in area, which features an operable partition. The design team meticulously studied proportions and materials to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing composition for these integrated spaces. The kitchen itself is a multifunctional tranquil zone, complete with a breakfast nook and the aforementioned bar, catering to the family's culinary and social needs. The inclusion of playful wallcoverings adds a vibrant touch to various areas, such as the children's room where a bold pink and orange wallpaper creates a focal point behind a daybed, and the bathrooms, which also feature lively patterns. Subtle neutrals anchor the main bedroom, promoting a sense of calm and restfulness. Layers of natural materials and earthy hues are consistently applied throughout the home, imbuing it with an overarching sense of peacefulness. This careful curation of design elements and materials successfully transforms the apartment into an oasis, offering a serene escape for the family and their guests amidst the bustling environment of Manhattan. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #NaturalMaterials #CustomMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Wallcoverings #ModernHome #TranquilSpaces

Parisian bathroom decor encapsulates an elegant and charming aesthetic, characterized by high ceilings, marble fixtures, ornate moldings, monochromatic color schemes, and herringbone parquet. This style, while often associated with grand Haussmann buildings, can be recreated in various living spaces, including modern apartments, without requiring a traditional Parisian address. The core principle revolves around creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere with a confident, timeless appeal. Key elements of Parisian bathroom design include embracing five-star luxury. This involves a predominantly white color palette, which designers utilize to highlight textures like sheepskin, washed linen, and whitewashed floorboards, thereby creating a warm and inviting ambiance despite the monochromatic scheme. The interplay of light and shadow is crucial in emphasizing details and shapes, making the space feel uplifting yet calm. Another significant aspect is maximizing natural light. Replacing solid ceilings with glass, where possible, can dramatically transform the mood of a bathroom, connecting the indoors with nature. Mirrors are also strategically used not only to enhance the sense of space but also to reflect light and amplify the visual richness of varied textures. This approach contributes to a brighter and more expansive feel within the bathroom. Incorporating vintage and antique elements is central to achieving an authentic Parisian look. Unique, time-worn furniture can soften the sharp edges of modern sanitaryware and hard surfaces, lending character and a lived-in feel. Antique pieces, often well-crafted, offer durability and can serve as functional storage while adding a touch of history and charm. Marble is an indispensable material in Parisian bathroom decor, symbolizing luxury and timelessness. Creative use of marble, such as employing large-format slabs on both floors and bath surrounds, can visually expand smaller spaces. Mixing different scales of marble tiles can add visual interest and create a memorable design. Moreover, bespoke fittings and built-in storage are highly valued, allowing for optimal use of space, especially in rooms with unusual dimensions or angles. This custom approach ensures a clean, linear, and uncluttered environment. Selecting timeless fixtures and fittings, such as traditional pedestal-style washstands, further reinforces the classic Parisian aesthetic. These pieces, often paired with elegant backdrops like tile-inspired wallpaper and warm antique brass accents, provide a sense of enduring style. Double vanities with open storage options can enhance the unit's lightness and offer opportunities for personal touches. The color palette in Parisian bathrooms often leans towards restful, dusky hues that evoke tranquility. Tadelakt walls, with their moisture-resistant properties and seamless finish, paired with cool blue-grey marble and minimalist brass fittings, create a spa-like atmosphere. The emphasis is on subtle textures and patterns, such as herringbone, to add depth without overwhelming the space. Wet rooms contribute to an understated elegance, particularly when a minimalist approach to colors and materials is adopted. Natural marble, with its unique veining, instills sophistication, and brass finishes can tie in warm tones, ensuring a cohesive and timeless design. Balancing materials is also important; combining wood paneling with marble helps to introduce warmth and soften the potentially cold feel of too much stone, adding textural contrast and visual interest. Finally, the flooring can be a focal point, with graphic 3D tiles adding an unexpected contemporary twist to a classic setting. These bold choices create an eye-catching statement while maintaining a harmonious balance with traditional elements. The overall Parisian bathroom decor style emphasizes negative space, allowing ornate details, decorative plasterwork, and luxury fixtures to stand out against a clean, pristine white backdrop, enhancing the airy and bright ambiance of the space. #ParisianDecor #BathroomDesign #InteriorStyle #LuxuryBathrooms #MarbleFixtures #VintageFurniture #ElegantAesthetic #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration

This article highlights the transformation of a 1930s apartment in Madrid's Chamberí district by design studio Plutarco, led by Ana Arana. Originally a series of dark, confined rooms, the 140-square-metre space was redesigned to be vibrant and functional, catering to the owners' passion for cooking and entertaining. The clients' unconventional request for a large, open kitchen, which is not typical in Spain, was central to the renovation. Despite initial concerns about food smells, Ana's team developed an effective solution that integrated the kitchen seamlessly into the living and dining areas. The renovation involved a complete overhaul, removing walls to create an open-plan L-shaped living/dining area that wraps around the kitchen. The apartment now includes two bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, and a third bathroom that functions as a utility room, discreetly housing a washing machine and cleaning supplies. Ana Arana viewed the challenge of carving out distinct zones within a compact footprint as an opportunity for creative problem-solving, emphasizing that restrictions often lead to innovative design solutions. Her approach focused on manipulating light, color, and materials to achieve an uplifting atmosphere. The design scheme is characterized by a painterly quality, drawing inspiration from artists like Miró and Mondrian. This is evident in the use of rainbow-bright furniture, art, and unexpected color accents, such as lilac cabinetry under the kitchen counter. Playful elements, including tomato-red 'Ekstrem' chairs by Terje Ekstrøm and nougat-like terrazzo flooring, are balanced with subtle refinement to create rooms that are both visually appealing and comfortable for living. The overall aesthetic conveys a sense of fun and approachability. Bold, vibrant colors are a recurring theme throughout the apartment, notably in the coral-pink and sky-blue bathrooms. These exuberant hues are strategically contained and grounded by black fixtures and fittings, which Ana describes as a neutral element that provides a sense of unity. This contrast between vivid colors and structured black lines evokes the artistic styles of Joan Miró and Piet Mondrian, where primary colors are sharply defined on a canvas. Despite its contemporary and fresh appearance, the home maintains a connection to its Spanish roots through its functional design. Ana emphasizes that the most Madrilenian aspect of the apartment is not its aesthetics but its functionality, particularly its emphasis on communal living and entertaining. She notes that in Madrid, people prioritize gatherings and family dinners, often willing to sacrifice living room space for a larger area dedicated to parties. The apartment successfully balances these cultural values with modern design, creating a space that prioritizes food, friends, family, and fun. The renovation, detailed in ELLE Decoration March 2021, showcases Plutarco's ability to transform a traditional property into a bold, functional, and joyful home tailored to its owners' lifestyle. #MadridApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #ColourfulInteriors #OpenPlanLiving #ModernRenovation #SpanishDesign #PlutarcoStudio #InteriorDecorating #FunctionalDesign

This article explores a New York home designed by Ania Dunlop, founder of Home for Zen, which draws significant inspiration from modern Parisian aesthetics. The renovation aimed to blend Parisian chic with a Mediterranean setting, resulting in a vibrant, modern, and sophisticated family home. The residence, located near NYC, underwent a complete gut renovation to harmonize clean lines, luxurious textures, and a soft color palette while preserving its original grandeur and architectural elements. The design emphasizes a unique fusion of styles, celebrating both traditional elegance and contemporary flair. One of the key lessons highlighted is the enhanced Parisian flair achieved through the strategic incorporation of art. Ania Dunlop prioritized modern art and murals to inject a sense of 'happiness and youthful energy' into the space, creating a balanced and inviting ambiance. The collection includes pieces from local galleries, with a notable mention of "Eternal Kate Moss" by Patrick Rubinstein, an interactive three-dimensional artwork that offers dynamic perspectives as viewers move around it. Murals are also utilized as an alternative to traditional wallpaper or paint, serving to transform the mood of each space. For instance, a tropical green wallpaper in the sunroom brings nature indoors, while a monochromatic black-and-white willow mural in the studio adds elegance and tranquility without overstimulation. The second lesson focuses on layered decor for pops of color and curated furnishings. Ania meticulously collected furniture and artworks over time, aiming to fill her home with heirlooms rather than mass-produced items. This approach ensures that every piece tells a compelling story of passions and experiences, making the home feel personal and exquisitely curated. The designer advocates for buying fewer, higher-quality items with a focus on workmanship and sustainability, a philosophy she extends to her clients by introducing them to artisans and handmade pieces. This thoughtful layering of decor contributes to the Parisian flair by creating a sense of timelessness and individuality. Luxe materials form the third essential element of the design. Ania is drawn to modern organic aesthetics that incorporate materials such as marble, ash, rift oak, shearling, mohair, bouclé, and handmade ceramics. These materials are used to create layered and edited interiors that are warm, serene, and authentic. Marble, in particular, is highlighted for its timeless elegance, natural beauty, and reflective qualities that enhance natural light, making spaces feel brighter and more open. The combination of marble with wooden elements, like a walnut floor lamp and an oak side table, adds richness and balance. Textiles such as plush rugs, throw pillows, and upholstery in complementary colors and textures introduce warmth and comfort, providing a contrast to hard surfaces and making the rooms more inviting, as seen with shearling ottomans and textured leather lounge chairs in the living room. The fourth lesson involves a calming color palette. While many Parisian homes feature bright white walls to maximize natural light, this home uses Decorator’s White from Benjamin Moore, a sleek, near-grey shade that brightens the space without strong undertones. The decor then punctuates these white walls with color. The muted color palette is intentionally applied to the ground floor's open-concept layout to create a seamless flow between rooms while still allowing each space to have its unique personality. The design emphasizes simplicity, the incorporation of nature, and the use of textures, soft colors, and modern bright artwork, all contributing to a harmonious feel throughout the home. Finally, the article discusses the preservation and enhancement of architectural elements. The home's traditional ornate crown molding was retained to maintain a grand scale reminiscent of Parisian design. Architectural features like the grand double staircases were streamlined but preserved, and windows were altered to a floor-to-ceiling style to welcome in abundant natural light. This thoughtful integration of existing architectural grandeur with modern design principles breathes new life into the space, marrying timeless elegance with a contemporary flair and creating a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic. #HomeDesign #ParisianStyle #InteriorDesign #LuxuryMaterials #ArtIntegration #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalElements #ModernHome #NewYorkDesign

This article explores a Parisian pied-à-terre, designed by Champeau & Wilde, for a young couple seeking a blend of classical and modern aesthetics. Located on the Quai Voltaire, across from the Louvre, the apartment captures the essence of 19th-century Parisian style while incorporating contemporary elements. The interior design studio, Champeau & Wilde, led by Laurent Champeau and Kelli Wilde, is known for its ability to infuse French sophistication into their projects, balancing historical references with modern sensibilities to create harmonious and livable spaces. Their approach involves a subtle alliance of contemporary and classical elements, tailored to clients' desires. The clients' vision for their 1,500 sq ft apartment in Saint-Germain-des-Prés was to evoke a 19th-century feel while ensuring it reflected their personal style and the romance of Paris. The original three-bedroom layout was reconfigured into two bedrooms, featuring an adjoining walk-in closet and a spacious bathroom, optimizing the use of space. The design incorporates quintessential French architectural details, such as crown mouldings and overdoors, which are then given a modern twist through the integration of contemporary art, like abstract collages by Francis Montanier, and modern furniture pieces, such as a zebra-print bench. Champeau & Wilde's signature style is characterized by this interlacing of bold patterns, diverse textures, and contemporary forms with traditional elements. They excel at combining bespoke and vintage furnishings to achieve individuality, emphasizing that schemes that are too uniform lose interest. A key aspect of their design philosophy is the strategic use of color and texture, often featuring splashes of bold hues against neutral, soft backgrounds. For instance, in the living room, a leopard-print rug and a blue sofa provide striking accents against off-white walls, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. The kitchen maintains a casual yet classical appeal through its neutral palette, while the bedroom also predominantly features neutral tones to foster a calming atmosphere. The master bathroom highlights the designers' strengths in functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring a his-and-hers sink layout with ample storage. The collaboration between Laurent Champeau, whose style is described as more rigorous and classically French, and Kelli Wilde, who brings a freer and more playful touch, is pivotal to their success. This partnership allows them to deliver comprehensively designed projects that resonate with their clients' aspirations while maintaining their distinctive design ethos. The article showcases how Champeau & Wilde successfully married the past with the present in this Parisian pied-à-terre, creating a space that is both timeless and uniquely personal. #InteriorDesign #HouseTour #ParisianApartment #ClassicalModern #ChampeauWilde #FrenchInterior #HomeDecor #Design