APPARÂT

Completely renovated in 2023 by Studio Rocca, the apartment offers a contemporary interpretation of Haussmannian heritage without ever compromising its soul. Behind its tall windows, the space reveals all the charm of the original features through its numerous delicate moldings, herringbone parquet flooring, and monumental fireplaces--hallmarks of distinctive architecture in this lively, family-friendly neighborhood with its village atmosphere. Here, the original moldings have been carefully preserved, from the ceilings to the wainscoting, rhythmically defining the spaces and emphasizing the perspectives. The architects have created a sensitive renovation where contemporary lines interact with the existing structure in a quest for a restrained and timeless balance. The apartment benefits from a dual aspect, offering the soft light of the east in the reception rooms and the warmer hues of the setting sun to the west. Its layout revolves around a spacious entrance gallery that leads to the main living areas, while a second, more discreet corridor provides access to the utility rooms, such as the bathroom, laundry room, and toilet, in a fluid and functional arrangement. The original fireplaces, true centerpieces of the apartment, punctuate each of the main rooms, bearing witness to Haussmannian refinement. Sometimes monumental, sometimes more understated, they sculpt the perspectives and lend each space a unique atmosphere, where the decor becomes architecture in its own right. They remind us of the uniqueness of each of these hand-carved works of art. The living spaces interact with one another while retaining their own distinct identities. The living room and dining room echo each other through their facing fireplaces, like a connecting thread between the spaces. In the living room, a custom-made woodwork unit clads the fireplace: its powder-coated steel structure supports slender walnut shelves that appear to float in the space, lending lightness and depth to the whole. In the dining room, the monumental fireplace in veined marble with shades of gray and brown asserts its sculptural presence at the heart of the living areas. The exploration of materials continues in the kitchen, conceived as a space in its own right. The undulating solid wood fronts interact with an Italian porcelain stoneware backsplash in deep tones. This round mosaic softens the graphic rhythm of the original terracotta floor tiles. Every detail finds its place naturally in this interplay of textures and lines. The master suite, with its entirely custom-designed bed bridge, subtly structures the sleeping area while incorporating ample storage. The simply oiled solid oak handles echo the gentle curves of the furniture and extend this feeling of warm simplicity. A dressing room and an intimate bathroom complete the suite. Entirely clad in graphic, rectilinear mosaic tiles, the custom-made shower contrasts with patinated marble sourced from a former bakery on Rue de Crimée (19th arrondissement), while the deep green paint elegantly envelops the space and complements the black and white veining of the marble. Two other bedrooms complete this family apartment, each retaining its original fireplaces and unique atmosphere. The bathroom, bathed in natural light, blends handcrafted cement tiles made in Morocco, with their soft hues and undulating surfaces, all in a soothing and warm style. Every intervention has been meticulously planned, in a constant search for balance between heritage and contemporary design.