18th-Century Paris Apartment Renovated with Rustic and Contemporary Charm

Located in a historic district of Paris is the Appartement Saint Paul, a one-bedroom residence recently redesigned by architect Margaux Beja. Nestled in the attic of an eighteenth-century building, it includes the structure's original features with contemporary additions, creating a space that's modern with a hint of old-world charm. To accentuate this rustic yet contemporary aesthetic, Beja combined raw materials–including a stunning use of timber beams–and a neutral palette for the decor.

Beja's redesign shows that one or two simple and well-considered design elements can transform an entire space. The knotty, natural ceiling rafters are a focal point of the apartment, and she produced a striking visual contrast with a steel and glass wall, creating an industrial vibe. Another centerpiece is the unit's “technical wall,” which conceals a bathroom, dressing room, and laundry area. This divider is constructed using solid walnut panels, and it adds welcome warmth to the overall space. Sparse-yet-impactful objects line the walls and built-in shelving, making the Appartement Saint Paul an undeniably cozy place to live.

Margaux Beja: Website | Facebook | Instagram
via [HomeDSGN]

Photos by Alexis Cottin and Julien Fernandez.

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled "Embroidered Life" that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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