Parisian mansion redesigned: a curveball in the 16th arrondissement
A century-old Art Nouveau masterpiece in Paris’s prestigious 16th arrondissement has undergone a dramatic transformation, thanks to designer Anne-Sophie Pailleret. The project, a significant undertaking given the constraints of preserving a historic building, showcases a bold blend of classic elegance and contemporary design.
Navigating architectural limits, embracing artistic vision
Working with a client who sought a ‘pied-à-terre’ for occasional use, Pailleret was given near-unfettered creative control—a rare privilege for a project of this scale. The limitations were clear: the façade and windows remained untouched, demanding meticulous restoration work, while intricate cornices and plasterwork required careful preservation. But these challenges ignited Pailleret’s creativity, fueling a vision centered on the building’s curvilinear bones.
“It was never about squares or angles,” she explains. “Instead, we wanted everything to be quite round.” This philosophy permeated every detail, from the domed entryway with its bespoke circular bench to the flowing hallway leading to the master suite, complete with arched windows. Pailleret’s firm’s bespoke furniture capabilities meant she could circumvent sourcing challenges, commissioning pieces tailored to the home’s unique specifications – a particularly memorable instance involved a dining table weighing tons and requiring a dozen movers to transport it.
Floral inspiration & luxurious details
The client’s brief—‘bring the garden inside’—was a driving force. Pailleret responded with a vibrant palette of lush greens, pinks, and golds, complemented by ivory plaster, ceramic, and marble, evoking a summery atmosphere despite the Parisian winter. The living room features a striking juxtaposition of vintage armchairs upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric alongside new, client-owned sofas. A Codimat rug anchors the space, its swirls of color echoing the overall design scheme.
From the bespoke floral prints in the daughter’s bedroom to the carefully selected lighting fixtures and accessories – including a stunning Codimat rug underneath – every element contributes to a relaxed, ‘décontracté’ atmosphere. The project’s success demonstrates Pailleret’s ability to seamlessly blend technical precision, honed during her time at Apple, with a genuine appreciation for the art of living. The finished result is a home that invites unwinding, a testament to thoughtful design and a willingness to embrace a bold, curving aesthetic.