French interiors: the Parisian art of stylish living

History and modernity merge effortlessly in Paris, reflected in the captivating charm of its homes. Paris Living is a thrilling journey through the elegance, eclecticism, and allure of Parisian interiors.

From the pastel-hued boudoir of celebrated fashion designer Chantal Thomass to the vibrant, art-filled dwelling of renowned artist Serge Poliakoff's granddaughter, this book celebrates the diversity and vitality of Paris. It reveals how Parisian homes mirror the city's rich cultural heritage and distinctive character.

Through the lens of acclaimed photographer Guillaume de Laubier, Paris Living unveils not just the physical beauty of these interiors but also the intangible essence that makes them quintessentially Parisian. His photographs capture the harmony between artistry and everyday life that defines the Parisian lifestyle.

Whether your taste leans toward antique treasures, sleek furnishings, or curated artworks, Paris Living offers endless inspiration. This book invites you to see Paris not just as a city of iconic landmarks but as a tapestry of lives woven with grace, whimsy, and passion.

Urban Haven

The stunning mid-19th-century hôtel particulier in Paris’s 5th arrondissement has been transformed into a magnificent family haven. Acquired in 2018, major renovations commenced in early 2020, turning this historic structure into a retreat that combines old-world charm with modern comfort.

The property’s allure begins with its tranquil setting. Tucked between a courtyard and a garden, it offers lush greenery and privacy, a rare find in the heart of the bustling city. Its proximity to the lively, historic neighborhood of old Paris, including the nearby Jardin du Luxembourg, further enhances its appeal. Additionally, the residence presented an exciting opportunity for renovation, allowing the creation of a spacious and welcoming family home.

The residence comprises six main bedrooms and four independent apartments, making it a versatile space, ideal for both family living and entertaining. The ground floor, designed for socialising, features a bar, dining area, and formal guest lounge. The first and second floors are dedicated to the family’s private quarters, with bedrooms, a library, TV room, and home office. The basement offers a leisure area, complete with a cinema, reception room, and gym.

The family’s favourite room is the library, bathed in southern light. It provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, embodying the essence of tranquility. The home’s design was guided by the concept of creating a “country house in Paris,” brought to life by Perrot & Richard Architectes and landscape designer Louis Benech. The family quarters flow seamlessly with a spacious, warm design, while guest apartments and additional bedrooms are discreetly positioned for privacy. A beautifully crafted English garden by Benech enhances the rural ambiance of the property.

Interior designer Camille Bazil infused the interior with vibrant colour and patterns while maintaining a sense of comfort. The grand scale of the house required a cohesive design that avoided repetition, creating a visually engaging yet harmonious environment.

Unique artistic touches, such as Fabrice Hyber’s magnificent tree sculpture integrated into the staircase, and Eva Jospin’s hand-embroidered silk panels in the bar area, add to the home’s distinct character. Custom-made furniture, vaulted ceilings, and bespoke tapestries further enhance its individuality.

Ultimately, the house strikes a perfect balance between function and beauty. With children and pets in the household, practicality was a priority, yet Bazil succeeded in creating an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. Durable materials were chosen to withstand everyday family life, resulting in an eclectic yet harmonious home where modern art, classic furniture, and striking architectural details come together to tell a story of comfort, creativity, and refined taste.

Chic Sanctum

Diana Ghandour, a luminary in interior architecture and furniture consultation, skillfully blends creativity with an acute spatial awareness to transform ordinary spaces into personalised sanctuaries. Her Paris apartment on Avenue Marceau is a prime example of her design prowess, showcasing both the elegance and innovation that defines her work.

Acquired in 2016 and thoughtfully renovated in 2023, Ghandour’s Parisian retreat immediately captivated her with its sunlit interiors and vibrant energy. “The moment I stepped in, it felt alive with potential for happiness,” she recalls, underscoring the intangible qualities that turn a mere structure into a home.

Used as a pied-à-terre for family vacations, the apartment features five master bedrooms, a smart family room, and a spacious open kitchen that flows into a grand dining area. Ghandour has meticulously crafted each room to strike a perfect balance between functionality and visual appeal, ensuring that every space is as practical as it is beautiful.

The open kitchen, made from warm oak, is the heart of the apartment. “It’s where we come together as a family, making it my favorite spot,” Ghandour explains, reflecting her design philosophy of creating spaces that foster joy and harmony. The apartment also showcases Osmanian architectural influences, adding a sense of historical elegance to its modern interiors. Ghandour’s approach emphasises optimising space to accommodate her large family while maintaining inviting communal areas.

As an expert in creating environments that foster well-being, Ghandour focuses on the psychological effects of spatial design. “Functionality equates to well-being,” she notes, a belief mirrored in her use of vibrant colours and minimalist, comfortable furniture to balance practicality with aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from French homes and Ottoman architecture, she creates spaces that are fluid, harmonious, and infused with modern minimalism.

On her Instagram platform, @what_hipp, Ghandour explores the interplay between art, architecture, and interior design. Her influences, from Elle Decoration to architects like Zaha Hadid and French designers such as Pierre Paulin and Pierre Augustin Rose, are evident throughout her work.

In Ghandour’s decor, colour and texture serve a purpose beyond aesthetics – they evoke specific emotions. Yellow symbolises prosperity, blue reflects authenticity, and pink conveys love. Each choice is carefully curated to enhance the ambiance of the room.

Signature pieces in the apartment include a mix of vintage and contemporary furniture from renowned French designers like Christophe Delcourt and Pierre Paulin. These pieces do more than occupy space – they tell stories, encapsulating personal journeys and artistic pursuits.

Paris Living by Guillaume de Laubier, published by Lannoo (www.lannoopublishers.com), €65.