Saint Sulpice

Merging Two Apartments into a Duplex

This project reflects a core principle of our approach at Véronique Cotrel, both in Paris and through our growing presence in interior design in New York: to enhance what already exists, rather than impose. Here, we transformed two separate apartments into one elegant duplex — without opening a new stairwell. Instead, we reclaimed the existing communal staircase, which originally led to a single apartment on the top floor. With a few adjustments, it became a natural and discreet link between the two levels.

Once this structural element was secured, we reimagined the floorplan. Each level was assigned a distinct purpose: daytime living spaces on the 5th floor, and sleeping quarters on the 6th. This clear separation allowed the main living area to remain uncluttered and serene, a canvas for the natural light and beautiful views.

As interior architects in New York, we pay particular attention to how space is experienced through perspective. This is a signature of the Véronique Cotrel agency: every room, every window, every angle is designed to offer a carefully composed view — almost like a painting. This concept was born from Véronique’s background in fine arts and continues to guide our work, both in Parisian Haussmann apartments and in the historic townhouses and lofts of New York City.

In this project, the use of mirrors played a key role. They multiply perspectives and extend the light into unexpected corners. The kitchen backsplash, for example, is made of patinated mirror panels, which softly reflect the surrounding space and brighten the room.

Although open kitchens are a popular choice in many New York interior design projects, we often recommend — when possible — a subtle separation from the living room. Here, the kitchen is set slightly apart, preserving the calm of the lounge while maintaining a visual connection.

The kitchen is intentionally set slightly apart from the living room. While open kitchens are very popular, they can be demanding in daily use. When possible, we prefer to create a soft separation from the lounge area.

We also advised our clients in the selection and integration of furniture. They already owned a beautiful collection, which we curated and complemented. The living room is structured around a deep-toned bookcase that brings contrast and character to the space.

From the entrance, the original staircase leads gently to the upper floor. It remains visually present from the kitchen — discreet, yet with a bold dark base that naturally draws the eye.

Upstairs, the layout includes two bathrooms and four bedrooms — a carefully optimized plan that makes this duplex both elegant and perfectly suited for family life. It is this balance between functionality and beauty that we seek in all our projects, whether in Paris or in our New York interior architecture studio.