The Haussmann flat, located near Paris’ Trocadéro metro station, is an example of the harmonious combination of historic elegance and modern design. Although characteristic elements of the period, such as the French herringbone parquet flooring and ornate stucco, have been retained, the design by interior designer and architect Martin Massé has given the space a fresh and contemporary feel. Seeking a modern but subtly Parisian style, the owners decided to keep the original details without over-exposing them. This gave the interior an elegant and contemporary feel, without falling into excessive references to classic Haussmann glamour.
Haussmann living room full of designer touches
The unusual character of the interior is apparent right from the threshold. The living room is dominated by a spectacular sculptural form in black, made from Venetian Marmorino by an Italian craftsman. This is a unique but significant intervention in the architecture of the room, which has been complemented by carefully selected colour accents. The designer furniture includes a Botticelli breccia marble table from the Massé collection, a Mickville armchair designed by Philippe Starck, Rambut stools from Pierre Charrié and a New Wave table by Lucas Cober. The interior is completed with textiles from Garro Editions and an elegant Codimat carpet. Together, all these elements create a unique, eclectic space that blends classic with 90s modern design.
Kitchen and dining room – a bold play of colours
Colour also plays a key role in the kitchen and dining room. The designer opted for intense colours, inspired by the 1990s, which at the same time do not dominate the space. The kitchen is finished with red lacquered cabinetry and its semi-open form is separated from the dining area by a Mont Blanc quartzite worktop. A subtly lowered ceiling hovers over the whole, further organising the interior. The dining area is dominated by a large Knoll table in an intense shade of blue, surrounded by Philippe Starck chairs. This bold but harmonious colour combination gives the interior a modern, dynamic feel.
Bedroom with view of the Eiffel Tower
One of the flat’s most unique features is the bedroom, which also doubles as an office. Thanks to the thoughtful design, the owners can enjoy the Paris skyline and the Eiffel Tower right from their bed or cover the sliding panels for more privacy. The interior finish relies on warm, natural materials – oak panelling, linen curtains and a paper pendant lamp – which together create a cosy and sensual atmosphere. The dressing room is also an interesting touch. Its interior is finished in the same shades of red and blue as the kitchen and dining room, which subtly relates to the overall colour concept of the flat.
The designer bathroom – austerity and elegance
Colours also dominate the bathroom, whose design is based on a combination of neutral and distinctive tones. Here, creamy architectural concrete and elegant travertine are combined with an intense green mosaic that covers the entire shower area up to the ceiling. The effect is reminiscent of an intimate grotto, lending the bathing area an aura of mystery. A final touch that completes the elegance of the interior are the carefully selected details: designer accessories, a metal tray and exclusive soap holders that create a sense of chic finesse in the interior.
Haussmann style in a modern interpretation
Martin Massé’s design is an excellent example of how classic elements of 19th-century architecture can be preserved while giving the interior a modern and fresh feel. With a skilful balance between historical details and contemporary design, this flat is a unique combination of classic elegance with a modern, colourful twist.
Design: Martin Massé (instagram: martin_masse_)
Photos: Yannick Labrousse (instagram: yannick__labrousse)
See also: Architecture | Kitchen | Bathroom | Metamorphosis | Apartment | Interiors | France | Paris
