How a Tiny Paris Apartment Became a Luxe 36-Square-Metre Masterpiece
A tiny Paris apartment in the Marais district has been transformed into a sleek, 36-square-metre pied-à-terre. Once a cramped studio, it now blends midcentury modern elegance with Art Deco touches. The redesign turns limited space into a luxurious retreat where every detail encourages relaxation.
The project gave interior designer Lauranne Élise Schmitt full creative control. She shared the client's passion for midcentury modern aesthetics, shaping a space that feels both refined and inviting.
The apartment's elongated layout was opened up by removing internal walls. Five south-facing windows now flood the space with natural light, shifting across wood, patinated brass, and stone surfaces throughout the day. The result is a cocoon-like atmosphere—muted yet versatile—where textures and materials take centre stage.
Bold accents come from bevelled mirrors and lacquered door frames. Above, a vintage brass-and-Murano-glass pendant lamp glows as the room's focal point. The honey-oak ceiling features recessed diamond-shaped fixtures, adding an Art Deco flair. This geometric theme continues underfoot, with parquet strips in natural and black wood forming a striking pattern.
Furniture strikes a balance between Californian ease and Parisian sophistication. A vintage modular sofa in chocolate-brown leather nods to Michel Ducaroy's iconic designs. The petite kitchen hides storage behind discreet panels, its bronze-hued brass countertop paired with a custom oak table. This piece alone serves as a breakfast nook, dining spot, workspace, or bar.
In the bedroom, fluted glass double doors reinforce the interplay of black and wood. The bathroom extends the geometric theme, blending hazelnut-brown travertine with black marble. Every element works together to create a seamless, functional space that feels far larger than its footprint.
The redesign proves that even a compact 387-square-foot apartment can feel expansive and luxurious. Natural light, thoughtful materials, and modular furniture make the space adaptable for daily living. The result is a glamorous Parisian retreat that maximises style without sacrificing comfort.
