In the City of Light, lucky locals are spoiled by breathtaking views at every turn and nowhere is that more apparent than in this apartment in the 16th arrondissement, just steps away from the Trocadéro and the Palais de Tokyo.
Its owners entrusted interior architect Fabrice Juan with its design and he chose a soft palette and sensual curves underpinned by a subtle geometry to create a tranquil sanctuary in the heart of the city. With the Eiffel Tower visible through windows on one side and a serene inner courtyard on the other, it’s now a cocoon of gentleness and sophistication.
The flat had been refurbished in the 1980s and the alterations had distorted the historic character of the place. Fabrice, with his love of classical architecture, collaborating with artisans and beautiful materials, not to mention his passion for the French art of living, was the perfect choice to bring some joie de vivre to the unloved interiors.
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‘This was a carte blanche project, which allowed me to express something new through the creation of pieces of furniture and architectural details,’ says Fabrice, adding ‘their only requirement was to have a kitchen/family room at the centre of the flat.’
Fabrice is most proud of that space and its natural extension into the TV lounge, all of which make the most of Paris’ famous golden hour, with furniture in a tonal palette carefully chosen and arranged to take on a luminous glow in the sunset.
The elegantly curved sofa is positioned to make the most of the views of the city, with the clean lines of the armchairs and crisp geometry of the curated objets creating a sophisticated interplay of forms. ‘There is plenty of light in all the rooms on the street side, as well as in the master bedroom and bathroom’ he says.
A second, smaller living room has a more laid-back feel, with generous windows framing the leafy internal courtyard, while the pristine white entrance is enlivened by an undulating wainscoting which is further enhanced by an architectural console inspired by Ricardo Bofill, one of Fabrice’s heroes.
Throughout the rooms, a warm, elegant material palette of brushed and dark oak, pastel shades of pale peach and almond-green and precious marbles combine to create an atmosphere that feels luxurious, timeless and contemporary.
‘Our clients are delighted’ he smiles. ‘They immediately loved the atmosphere of the place and were pleasantly surprised by the revelation of the materials due to the incredible light from which they can enjoy the unobstructed view of the Palais de Tokyo and the Eiffel Tower. Together, we're already thinking about decorating their home abroad.’ fabricejuan.com
