Eli Mizrahi, the visionary behind the fashion label Mônot, is renowned for his striking eveningwear crafted for celebrities such as Hailey Bieber and Gisele. Born in Lebanon and a longtime New Yorker, Mizrahi’s bold style is unmistakable. When he acquired a sprawling Paris apartment in a historic 1860 building near Parc Monceau, he saw an opportunity to transform the former law office into a daring and imaginative space that reflects his unique aesthetic.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Julien Sebban
Designer: Uchronia
Location: Paris, France
Founder: Eli Mizrahi
Art Collection: Richard Prince, George Condo, Jean-Michel Basquiat
To realize his vision, Mizrahi enlisted the help of Uchronia, a young Paris-based architecture and design firm led by Julien Sebban. Attracted by their playful designs and bold use of color showcased on Instagram, Mizrahi initiated the collaboration via a direct message. Uchronia, known for its vibrant and whimsical style, caught the eye of Mizrahi after creating buzz in Paris with the interior of Forest, a brutalist-inspired brasserie. Together, they embarked on a journey to transform the expansive apartment into a modern masterpiece with classical twists.
The transformation of the apartment was both ambitious in scope and budget. Mizrahi’s collection of blue-chip art, featuring renowned artists like Richard Prince and Jean-Michel Basquiat, was complemented by the bespoke art and design pieces commissioned specifically for the space. Uchronia was given the freedom to experiment, resulting in eclectic choices such as a marigold kitchen and an emerald primary bath. The mirrored dining room, with a table seating 20, exudes grandeur reminiscent of Versailles, complete with elaborate silk bow window treatments.
Sebban and his team embraced classic Parisian architecture while infusing it with contemporary flair. They restored traditional elements like parquet flooring and plaster moldings while integrating modern features. One innovative take on historical design saw artist Ebony Russell crafting custom-colored vases, turning the classic use of urns on wall brackets into a fresh statement in the kitchen and salon. Every room became a canvas for collaboration with artists and craftsmen, each detail meticulously considered.
Perhaps the most distinctive space is the library, a testament to Mizrahi’s desire for bold, inviting design. It features a custom pink ceiling and a matching velvet modular sofa by Verner Panton. Accentuated by a unique chandelier in pink and red Murano glass, the room balances extravagance with comfort, creating a boudoir-like atmosphere. The space exemplifies Mizrahi’s vision of making grand gestures approachable, exuding both style and a conversational ambiance.
In under a year, Uchronia transformed Mizrahi’s apartment into more than just a living space; it became a complete work of art. The attention to detail, from bespoke lighting to custom flatware for entertaining, highlights the seamless collaboration between client and designer. Despite the challenges of coordinating a cohesive project on a tight timeline, the experience was a dream for Sebban. The result is a vibrant, cohesive home that captures the essence of Mizrahi’s bold and adventurous spirit, blending tradition with modern sophistication.
