Discover the stunning transformation of a historic apartment into a refined family duplex, blending French classicism with modern design. Explore the heart of Parisian living.
In the heart of the 5th arrondissement, a once-forgotten Paris apartment has been given a remarkable second life. Located in a 17th-century hôtel particulier and facing the majestic newly restored Notre Dame, this elegant Paris apartment now celebrates its architectural heritage and its new role as a vibrant family home. Through careful restoration and bold design, the space reflects the seamless integration of tradition and modern living, embodying the essence of life in a truly cinematic apartment.
A Thoughtful Layout for Modern Family Living
The renovation project focused on transforming the 290-square-meter Paris apartment into a functional yet luxurious space for a family of four and their live-in au pair. With two floors — a 250 sqm principal level and a 40 sqm entresol studio — the duplex layout was ideal for creating distinct zones. The studio on the mezzanine level now serves as a private haven for the au pair, maintaining the style and tone of the larger Paris apartment while offering comfort and independence.
Seamless Design and Haute Couture Vision
Functionality was at the core of reimagining this apartment. The designers de-compartmentalized the interiors to enhance flow and light, creating an open and breathable layout suitable for family life. Classic Haussmannian features — such as the moldings and cornices— were restored to their original beauty, infusing the Paris apartment with authentic French character. From room to room, the transition between past and present is effortless, offering a spatial rhythm that is both intuitive and elegant.
This refined apartment has been brought to life by Double G Studio — the acclaimed design team of Flora de Gastines and Anne Geistdoerfer. Known for their bespoke approach, they embraced the concept of “haute couture” design for this project, tailoring every element to suit the architecture and the family’s lifestyle. Their mastery of proportion, light, and materiality shines through in every room, turning this Paris apartment into a harmonious dialogue between form and function.
Materials, Mood, and a Collector’s Eye for Detail
Color and material choices were instrumental in shaping the mood of the place. Soft chalk-toned lime coatings add depth to the walls, while noble materials such as Calcutta marble, American walnut, and brushed brass bring warmth and tactile luxury. The subdued palette allows the original architectural elements of the Paris apartment — the oak floors, mirrors, and fireplace — to stand out as focal points. These choices honor the space’s Parisian heritage while ensuring it remains rooted in contemporary taste.
The design and decor throughout the Paris apartment were curated with a collector’s eye. In the dining room, Platner chairs encircle a sculptural table by Damien Gernay, paired with modern pendant lighting. These pieces contrast subtly against the classical architecture, reflecting the unique personality of this Paris apartment. In the living room, a limited-edition rug and iconic vintage seating offer comfort and visual richness, all framed by panoramic views of the Seine.
A Serene Studio Retreat for the Au Pair
Thoughtfully tucked into the mezzanine level, the 40-square-meter studio was designed as a private and comfortable retreat for the live-in au pair. Although compact, it maintains the same design integrity and aesthetic sophistication as the primary residence. The studio space combines functionality with warmth, offering a true sense of independence while remaining visually connected to the overall style of the Paris apartment.
Every detail of the studio speaks to curated elegance. A City Fog table lamp by François Bazin lends a soft, ambient glow beside the bed dressed in inviting linens from Maison de Vacances. In the bathroom, a vintage mirror and a Charlotte Perriand stool elevate the space with understated charm. At the same time, the pantry features delicate Astier de Villatte tableware — a quiet nod to Parisian artisanal craft. In the adjacent TV room, a Group sofa by SCP rests atop a Limited Edition rug, creating a relaxed atmosphere ideal for winding down. This studio within the Paris apartment is more than just a functional space — it’s a beautifully composed living environment that complements the family home with care and intention.
Artful Interiors: Entrance, Dining Room, and Kitchen Elegance
Upon entering the apartment, guests are greeted by a striking interplay of light and shadow. A bright Barba sofa by Fogia sits beneath the sculptural Calliope Large pendant by Garnier & Linker, offering a warm welcome against the backdrop of a dramatic painting by Kazuhito Nagasawa. The contrast continues with the minimalist Roi stool by Christophe Delcourt and the geometric elegance of Angelo Mangiarotti’s Eros Gueridons. Anchoring the space is a commanding Grande Echelle Dogon sculpture placed by the window.
The balance of refinement and personality comes to life in the dining room. Iconic Platner armchairs by Knoll encircle the crumpled-metal-inspired Table Froissée by Damien Gernay, creating a sophisticated yet playful centerpiece. Above, pendant lights by Anna Charlesworth cast a soft, ambient glow, while Circuit 1 sconces by Apparatus add a modern sculptural accent to the walls. Like every corner of the Paris apartment, this space blends design heritage with contemporary flair, making every mealtime an aesthetic experience.
The kitchen, meanwhile, is both functional and refined — a hallmark of this Paris apartment’s thoughtful design. A Tournelles table by Double G pairs beautifully with Superleggera chairs by Gio Ponti. A painting by Kazuhito Nagasawa adds color and drama to the space, while natural materials ensure a lasting sense of harmony. Much like the rest of the Paris apartment, this kitchen is a space where beauty and practicality coexist seamlessly.
Light, Legacy, and the Soul of a Paris Apartment
Light plays a crucial role throughout this restored Paris apartment. Large windows flood the interiors with natural daylight, reflecting off soft surfaces and mirrored elements. In the living room’s semi-rotunda layout, mirrors enhance the depth of the space and echo the grandeur of the exterior views. These reflective surfaces give the Paris apartment a sense of expansiveness, making it feel airy and grounded.
The renovation of this Paris apartment is not merely a design success—it’s a heartfelt revival of a historic home into a living, breathing space for a modern family. By blending Parisian classicism with minimalist modernism, the project captures an unmistakably French lifestyle but is universally inspiring. This Paris apartment is now a blueprint for elegant city living, where tradition and innovation coalesce.
A Paris Apartment Reimagined for the Future
In conclusion, the transformation of this Paris apartment tells a story of rebirth, artistry, and intimate design. Every detail, from architectural restoration to material selection, reflects a deep respect for its past and a clear vision for its future. For anyone who has ever dreamed of life in a Paris apartment, this restored duplex offers a compelling glimpse into what that dream can truly become.
HOMMÉS Studio: Design as a Signature of Style
The transformation of this Paris apartment mirrors HOMMÉS Studio’s philosophy: furniture is not merely functional—it is an expression of identity. Just as the apartment blends haute couture aesthetics with timeless architecture, HOMMÉS Studio champions bold, sculptural pieces that bring personality to every room.
With a curated selection of distinctive materials, elegant forms, and confident color palettes, HOMMÉS Studio empowers homeowners to craft interiors that are both refined and unique. From statement-making consoles to artful lighting and bespoke seating, each creation is designed to infuse character and elevate the everyday.
In the same spirit that guided the Paris apartment’s rebirth, HOMMÉS Studio offers a way to turn any space into a narrative of self—where design doesn’t just support life, but defines it.
Elevate Your Home with HOMMÉS Studio
The restoration of this Paris apartment is a masterclass in refined luxury and expressive design — a space where elegance meets individuality. Through a careful balance of color, texture, and sculptural elements, the apartment reflects how personal style can be seamlessly woven into architectural heritage.
To bring that same Parisian spirit into your own home, explore HOMMÉS Studio’s latest collection. Crafted for those who see interiors as a form of self-expression, each piece is designed to make a statement. Discover furniture that captures attention, celebrates identity, and transforms everyday living into an art form.
Source: AD
