YOKO
Leaving Paris’s 17th arrondissement to move to the 18th was not an easy decision. Audrey, originally from Belgium but a Parisian by choice, was looking above all for a place that would stir an immediate emotional response in her. It was eventually on Rue Vauvenargues, in an iconic 1970s block of flats, that she discovered the flat that would change her perspective on a neighbourhood she still knew little about.
Captivated from the very first images by the way ARCHIK portrayed this property, she found much more than just a flat: the architecture, the light, the atmosphere. It was a pivotal moment, made all the more special by Marine’s attentive guidance, which made this first purchase a no-brainer.
Audrey, tell us about how you came to work with ARCHIK. How did it all begin ?
A : It all started with an advert. When I saw the photographs, I was immediately drawn in. They were stunning, full of light, but above all, they already told you something about the flat. You could sense a real sense of life, a real personality. Then I read the text. Again, it wasn’t just a standard estate agent’s description. I felt as though I was being told a story, that I was being introduced to a place before being sold a property.
That’s what made me want to visit. Looking back, I think that first impression sums up my experience with ARCHIK quite well: I felt supported every step of the way, with Marine paying me a great deal of attention. It’s something that made a huge impression on me.
You used to live in the 17th arrondissement. Had you already been thinking about the 18th, or did this come as a surprise?
I’d been living in the 17th arrondissement for several years and was very happy there. But when I decided to buy a flat, I wanted to explore a new neighbourhood. The 18th arrondissement was one of the areas that appealed to me most. I was drawn to its energy and diversity, whilst still looking for a quiet neighbourhood.
This flat ultimately had everything I’d been hoping for: a new neighbourhood to explore, plenty of light and a real sense of tranquillity. I don’t think I had to compromise on any of my criteria.
“ARCHIK does more than simply present properties in a unique way; it tells the stories of these places, reveals their character and supports people with great sincerity.”
Do you remember your first impression when you opened the door to the flat ?
Very well. The first thing I remember is the pink marble hall, followed by that huge floor-to-ceiling window opening straight out onto the trees. It was in May, the windows were open, the weather was lovely… I felt a real sense of calm. After several months of searching, you almost learn to protect yourself from disappointment. But here, my excitement grew as the tour went on. I felt more and more at home. And then there was the décor.
The flat already had a very strong identity, a distinctly 1970s feel that I fell in love with straight away. Every piece of furniture seemed to have found its perfect place. I even managed to acquire the Amanta armchairs by Mario Bellini that the previous owners had – and which they didn’t want to part with (and I can understand why!) – as they were part of the very soul of the flat. By the end of the viewing, I already knew I was going to make an offer.
What was it about this 1970s block of flats that appealed to you?
I must admit I wasn’t specifically looking for a 1970s block of flats, but I knew that this style of architecture often offered the qualities I was after: large windows, plenty of light, a balcony and spacious rooms. I was also won over by the housing estate itself. As soon as you step through the gate, you discover a real haven of peace, with plenty of greenery. You almost forget that you’re just a stone’s throw from Rue Championnet. There’s a very friendly atmosphere there, almost like that of a small village. It’s a quality of life that’s quite rare in Paris.
The interior design of the venue also played a significant part in why you fell in love with it…
Yes, very much so. I was immediately drawn to the world created by the previous owners, who were interior designers themselves. The choice of materials, the layout, the furniture, the green marble, the colour scheme… Everything was extremely cohesive and well thought-out, without ever feeling rigid. You could really sense that this interior was full of life.
In what way did ARCHIK’s support play a part in this acquisition?
Right from the start, I sensed that the approach was different. The photographs were inspiring, and the text gave them meaning. Then, when I met Marine, that first impression was confirmed. Everything felt very smooth and natural. I felt at ease straight away. What struck me in particular was the honesty of our conversations. At no point did I feel as though they were trying to persuade me. For a first-time purchase, that’s extremely reassuring. That trust allowed me to proceed with peace of mind and make my decision with great conviction.
FAVORITE ROOM
Settling into my Marsala armchair by Michel Ducaroy, produced by Ligne Roset, to enjoy my morning coffee whilst looking out at the trees and listening to the birds singing.
EDITION ARCHIK
The miroir KIHCRA by Charlotte Juillard for its minimalist design (and because I love mirrors!).
NEIGHBORHOOD FAVORITE ADRESS
Interview and photo credits: Julie Fleutot