Playful and Striking: Zola Apartment in Paris by Corpus Studio.

Nestled in a Haussmann building near the Seine River and the Eiffel Tower, Zola Apartment by Corpus Studio exudes charm and sophistication. Offering a harmonious blend of classical and contemporary design, the layout features two balconies with stunning views over Paris rooftops. Its southern orientation ensures an abundance of natural light throughout the day, enhancing its warm and inviting atmosphere.

Corpus Studio’s design approach is evident in the thoughtful preservation of the apartment’s original layout. “We preferred to retain the well-proportioned layout and inherent distribution of the apartment to preserve its character,” explains the design duo. This respect for the history is complemented by modern interventions at key points, such as the custom-made triangular washbasin, a theatrically oblique walled entrance, and a semi-circular nook with a built-in bench. These sculptural elements introduce a playful yet striking aesthetic.

The living room showcases an eclectic mix of furniture and decor. A 240 Sofa in black velvet by Pierre Augustin Rose pairs elegantly with a ceramic table by Maarten Stuer. The room also features a Tiffany blue armchair, “In Praise of Epicurus” by Ettore Sottsass, and hand-carved oak panels by Jean Touret. The juxtaposition of these pieces, along with a vibrant mint green chair and a 1930s bronze lamp, creates a visually stimulating environment.

A Young Art Collector’s Home by Corpus Studio.

Corpus Studio drew inspiration from several sources for this raw and glam house of a young art collector—London’s architectural scale; Carlo Scarpa’s sense of details...

In the entrance, a brass sconce by Paavo Tynell from 1947 and a cracked ceramic ram attributed to Primavera circa 1930 add a touch of vintage elegance. The bathroom, entirely clad in refined glass mosaic, is a marvel of design with its triangular washbasin and fluted glass screen, reminiscent of 1940s interiors. Integrated mirrors expand the small space, while bold metal elements provide a contemporary contrast.

The bedroom is deliberately sparse, avoiding visual clutter. Michel Boyer’s Brasilia lamps and a virgin wool curtain add subtle sophistication. The completely remodelled kitchen features a linear work area with brushed aluminium panels and brass details. A bespoke glass table by Corpus Studio contrasts beautifully with a 1970s wooden chair by Dominique Zimbacca.

The careful curation of decorative objects throughout the apartment underscores Corpus Studio’s commitment to quality and detail. Pieces like the marble panther head from the Roman era and the bronze “Mother Courage” sculpture by Edmond Moirignot contribute to the apartment’s rich narrative.

Le Marais: A Luminous Apartment in Paris by Studio Haddou-DuFourcq.

‘Le marais’, in French, literally translates to ‘swamp’, but there's nothing remotely swamp-like about Le Marais, the apartment in Paris recently redesigned by Studio Haddou-DuFourcq.

[Images courtesy of Corpus Studio. Photography by Christophe Coënon.]