Parisian Apartment Redefines 'Happy Gothic' with 18th-Century Charm and Modern Art

In the heart of Paris's Marais district, architect Clément Lesnoff-Rocard transformed an 18th-century apartment into a "happy Gothic" masterpiece. By stripping away modern additions and restoring original limestone walls, he created a space that honors history while embracing a young family's vibrant life.

Back to the Start

The apartment, built around 1775, was originally part of an experimental collective living project. Lesnoff-Rocard removed all unnecessary modern additions to reveal the home's clear proportions and original flow. Public spaces like the living area and kitchen are at one end, while private spaces are at the opposite end.

Happy Gothic

The term "Gothic" here refers to the historical style's optimism and progress, not gloom. The interior features a large round couch for family rituals, a growing art collection, and playful elements like a Gaudí chair with heart motifs. Artworks by Aloïse Corbaz and Thornton Dial add directness and exuberance.

Custom Details

In the kitchen, bespoke double doors feature reliefs representing the couple's heritage: Argentine and French-Corsican symbols like a fish, fig leaf, cat, and Patagonian flower. The monolithic stainless-steel kitchen by Abimis contrasts with cloud paintings by Mimi Gross.

Technical Precision

Lesnoff-Rocard used a minimalist material palette with stainless steel, Carrara marble, and underfloor heating. Fiery red faucets by Marcel Wanders and spherical lights by Flos add whimsy. A natural climate system with ceiling fans replaces traditional AC.

The Parents' Sanctuary

The principal bedroom is a serene retreat with a four-poster bed and creamy textiles, crowned by a restored historic ceiling fresco of two angels. It's a space that balances history with a smile.

Custom circular seating under Aleksandar Pertemov's artwork.

Monolithic stainless-steel kitchen with cloud paintings by Mimi Gross.

Principal bedroom with restored ceiling fresco.