Exelmans Apartment
SIMPLICITY The apartment lies at the top of an Haussmann building. It combines several former rooms and was thus characterized by a labyrinthine and heterogeneous look. Therefore the goal was to give more cohesion and a unified identity. A subtle renovation was chosen in order to highlight the Haussmann features of the place.
FLUIDITY The first spatial goal was to gain fluidity. The main circulation paths were simplified and no longer separated from other spaces. As there were no existing door lintels, door openings were widened with generous proportions. The structure was reinforced and new openings created as a result, some of which were not replaced in order to get better circulation and to diffuse the light. A new 40 cm door was installed between the office and bedroom, which creates new views between the spaces.
UNITY First, all the flooring was united in order to create visual consistency. A newly sealed parquet floor was added to match the existing oak parquet. Special care was taken with the details, which adds to the cohesion. The white plaster and birch plywood furniture helps to reflect the light. Plinth and door handles were custom made at different scales. Natural lighting is supplemented with occasional lightning such as wall sconces.
COZINESS Custom made furniture built into the eaves. It embellishes the windows and balconies, drawing attention to the urban landscape beyond. The windows are framed differently according to the use and orientation of the room, with a view to the street or the courtyards. It allows for a true intimacy, while beautifying the space like an old upper class house. The very simple furniture allows for many possibilities for the inhabitants to customize the place. In addition, a remaining skylight has been framed with a slate grey color. It projects light into the heart of apartment, reflecting a color reminiscent of the roofs of Paris.
- Apartment refurbishment, furniture included
- Completion: 2013
- Area: 82 m²
- Building time: 2 months
