Marais, Luxury French Modern Interior Design
Project type: Pied a terre
150 sq m
Renovation, decoration, and turn-key project
Transforming this 150-square-meter pied-à-terre in the heart of Le Marais was an exceptional experience. Situated within a 17th-century hôtel particulier, the apartment embodies the essence of a luxury Paris apartment renovation—where heritage and modernity are carefully balanced. Designed as a serene retreat for a Canadian couple, the residence reflects a timeless dialogue between Parisian history, modern design, and the unique experience of living in Paris.
Inspired by the charm of French elegance, the design balances authenticity with comfort, representing our vision of luxury French modern interior design at its finest.
Dating back to 1660, the hôtel particulier retains heritage-listed features, including an 18th-century entrance door, intricate wrought ironwork, and a grand courtyard staircase. These architectural elements were meticulously preserved and seamlessly integrated, honoring the building’s storied past while preparing it for modern living. It is precisely this harmony between authenticity and comfort that defines the best Parisian pieds-à-terre and embodies timeless French style.
The design approach emphasized natural, tactile materials—timber, jute, wool, heavy tumbled linens, and marble—chosen to complement the apartment’s historic bones. Soft, layered palettes draw attention to the natural light of Le Marais, while bespoke furnishings and millwork enhance both functionality and elegance.
Subtle modern interventions—state-of-the-art lighting, custom storage solutions, discreetly integrated fixtures—add a sense of ease, ensuring the living space remains practical without losing its Parisian soul. In the dining room, carefully curated antique pieces sit alongside bespoke furnishings, reflecting a dialogue between French interior tradition and modern French sensibilities.
Months of careful planning allowed the transformation to unfold seamlessly, culminating in a brief installation period where every detail came together with precision. Today, the apartment serves as both a tranquil private haven and a welcoming space for entertaining family and friends.
This project stands as a refined example of interior design in Le Marais: a harmonious blend of historic character and modern sophistication. More than a pied-à-terre in Paris, it is a home crafted with care, artistry, and expertise—an illustration of how thoughtful renovation can elevate a space into a lasting expression of beauty, comfort, and a true reflection of contemporary living in Paris.
Photography by Heidi Jean Feldman
From Lichelle
One of the greatest privileges of designing in Paris is becoming part of a home’s ongoing story. Buildings like this have witnessed centuries of life, and I believe our role is not to preserve them as museums, but to help them continue evolving with grace.
The most rewarding renovations are those where history remains present and modern life feels effortless. When that balance is found, the architecture continues telling its story for generations to come.
See the Before & After of Marais Project
A 150m2 pied-a-terre in Le Marais, set within a 17th-century hotel particulier with original wrought ironwork and a grand courtyard staircase, designed as a private retreat for a Canadian couple. Every heritage-listed feature had to be preserved while delivering a fully liveable contemporary French interior, balancing authenticity with the comfort of modern living.
Working as a fully turnkey interior design Paris studio, Lichelle Silvestry oversaw the complete apartment renovation, from sourcing natural materials and bespoke millwork through to final installation.
