- Historic Layers, Contemporary Flow -
- Historic Layers, Contemporary Flow -
Located on the premier étage of a classic Marais building, this Parisian apartment offered undeniable charm—and plenty of challenges. With an open view and the elegance of historic bones, the space had tremendous potential. Yet over the decades, it had undergone a series of partial renovations, some more successful than others. The mission was clear: to strip back the noise, preserve what mattered, and rethink the space entirely.
At Véronique Cotrel, our approach to interior architecture always begins with a deep respect for context. In this case, the Marais offered a rich architectural heritage dating back to the late Middle Ages—a neighborhood untouched by Haussmann’s sweeping transformations. This historical depth called for a renovation that could create harmony across eras, linking preserved fragments of the past with a cohesive, contemporary vision.
One of our first interventions was to sort and assess: what elements deserved to stay, and what needed to go. The flooring was among the first to be reimagined. We chose a classic Versailles panel parquet, reinterpreted with a matte finish for a lighter, more modern appearance—creating an elegant dialogue between heritage and freshness.
The kitchen, once isolated, was opened and fully integrated into the main living area, allowing light and space to flow naturally. This gesture not only modernized the layout, but also brought a sense of conviviality and fluidity to daily life—one of the pillars of Parisian art de vivre.
This project is a perfect illustration of our philosophy: as interior architects, our role is not only to beautify, but to clarify—to bring logic, grace, and comfort to spaces shaped by time. The result is a Paris apartment that feels rooted in its history, yet entirely aligned with the rhythm of contemporary living.
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