In the heart of Paris, French architect Joris Poggioli has unveiled a stunning renovation of an apartment steeped in history, transforming it into a serene sanctuary that beautifully blends minimalism with the opulence of Napoleon-era architecture.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Paris, France
Architecture & Interior Design: Joris Poggioli
Photography: Alice Mesguich
Nestled within a mansion that once served as Napoleon Bonaparte’s office, this 90-square-meter space was ripe for a revival. Poggioli embarked on this journey with a clear vision: to preserve the apartment’s historic soul while introducing modern design elements. “It was an opportunity to merge my passion for minimalism with the grandeur of Napoleon-era architecture,” he remarked, underscoring his intent to honor the building’s legacy.
When Poggioli first stepped through the door, he was met with a maze of modifications that had masked the apartment’s original beauty for decades. “It was like entering a fortress with layers of flooring, insulation, and makeshift walls,” he recalled. This challenge spurred him to meticulously peel back the layers, revealing stunning original parquet, intricate mouldings, and exquisite architectural details that had long been hidden from view.
His approach was deeply influenced by the building’s historical significance, particularly its connection to Napoleon. Poggioli’s design philosophy was to highlight and celebrate these features rather than overshadow them. “I wanted my design to feel like it was embracing the historical skeleton of the building, enhancing its spirit rather than competing with it,” he explained.
The apartment’s striking 4.2-meter-high ceiling emerged as a pivotal element in Poggioli’s design narrative. This grand height allowed him to think expansively and creatively, leading to innovative design choices that accentuated the sense of space. An oversized headboard in the bedroom and a mezzanine-like upper floor were introduced to draw the eye upward, reinforcing the apartment’s verticality. “The soaring ceiling height was one of the most striking features of the apartment,” he noted. “It immediately influenced how I approached the design, giving me room to think on a grander scale.”
The interplay of light and space was equally important in Poggioli’s vision. Large windows flood the apartment with natural light, enhancing its airy atmosphere. “The void, the space itself, became necessary for thought—it allows mental images to escape and flow freely,” he shared, encapsulating the essence of a home that invites contemplation and inspiration.
Poggioli’s thoughtful curation of art and decor further bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. The apartment features sculptures borrowed from a client, a collector of Amerindian art, whose works have graced the halls of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Additionally, a series of bowls designed by American artist Donald Judd, along with pieces from Poggioli’s personal collection, enrich the space. “These pieces were selected because they represent a bridge between tradition and modernity, much like the apartment itself,” he explained. The incorporation of Amerindian art adds a layer of cultural depth, while the sleek, timeless design of the Puiforcat bowls brings refinement.
Together, these elements create a harmonious balance, reflecting Poggioli’s overarching design philosophy: a seamless coexistence of past and present, each enhancing the other. His renovation serves as a testament to the power of thoughtful design—one that honors history while boldly embracing contemporary ideals.
In a world where the lines between design eras often blur, Poggioli’s Parisian apartment stands as a beautiful reminder that a space can be both a nod to history and a canvas for modern expression. It invites us to rethink the potential of our own homes, urging us to find beauty in the blend of old and new.
As the world continues to evolve, Poggioli’s renovation exemplifies a growing trend in design: a desire for spaces that resonate with personal and historical significance. This Parisian dream not only captures the essence of an era but also speaks to the timeless nature of good design—one that will inspire generations to come.
With its rich narrative woven through every detail, Poggioli’s apartment is more than just a living space; it is a masterpiece that embodies the intricate dance between minimalism and grandeur.
