Architect Cyrus Ardalan transformed a corner apartment in Paris into a nautical-inspired retreat, embodying the spirit of a ship while catering to the needs of DJ Louise Chen, her partner Silas Swinstead, and their young son. Situated in the 9th arrondissement, this 70-square-metre dwelling marries innovative design with personal storytelling, ensuring a home that resonates with its residents.
A Vision at the Prow of a Ship
Ardalan’s journey began with a feeling—a sense of standing at the prow of a ship during his first visit to the apartment. “That image stayed with me and gradually became a guiding idea for the project,” he reflected. Although the architect aimed to steer clear of literal nautical themes, this initial vision profoundly influenced various design choices throughout the renovation.
Nautical Design Elements
The apartment’s central corridor, which Ardalan likens to the “spine of the plan,” exemplifies this nautical influence. Clad in a horizontal band of tinted plywood, the corridor features circular, porthole-style openings that allow light to cascade into the adjacent bedrooms. These openings can slide up and down, cleverly serving both functional and aesthetic purposes.
Moreover, Ardalan incorporated rounded door frames, enhancing a playful design that complements other elements, including the white-painted parquet flooring—reminiscent of boat decking. He noted, “Individually, these gestures are quite discreet, but together, they create a quiet maritime atmosphere.”
Maximizing Light and Flow
One of Ardalan’s primary goals was to open up the living space and kitchen for a more natural flow, maximizing the apartment’s abundant natural light. Large windows offer breathtaking rooftop views of Paris, emphasizing the openness of the space while maintaining a connection to the bustling surroundings.
By insulating the walls, Ardalan was also able to soften the angles throughout the apartment, evoking the rounded shapes often found in boat cabins. This design choice contributes to a sense of calm, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the living area.
Bespoke Features and Personal Touches
Noteworthy among Ardalan’s designs is a bespoke cabinet crafted specifically for Chen’s extensive vinyl collection. This unique feature integrates seamlessly into the architecture of the space, reflecting both her professional identity and personal life.
The adjoining kitchen’s design includes a chunky glass paste mosaic arch, providing an artistic touch while discreetly concealing old pipes. Stainless steel cabinetry, coupled with a rounded worktop that echoes the gentle curves found in the living room, further emphasizes the cohesion of the design.
Material Palette and Textural Harmony
The choice of materials plays a critical role in creating a cohesive environment. The same reddish-brown tiles found in the kitchen are mirrored in the bathroom, arranged in a formation that parallels the horizontal bands of plywood in the corridor. This limited yet rich material palette allows each space to exude distinct character while remaining interconnected.
Thoughtful Furnishings
The furnishings throughout Chen’s apartment include a thoughtful mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. From tubular dining chairs designed by 20th-century icon Eileen Gray to minimalist wall lamps by modernist Charlotte Perriand, the selection enhances the apartment’s sophisticated aesthetic. A striking blown-glass coffee table by contemporary designer Sabine Marcelis adds an additional layer of artistic flair.
A Harmonious Living Experience
The experience of living in this transformed Parisian apartment is both unique and intimate. Ardalan’s design manages to encapsulate the essence of maritime living while ensuring practicality for a modern family. Each element, from the playful porthole openings to the exquisite materials, contributes to an atmosphere that feels both serene and vibrant—an apt reflection of the lives lived within its walls.
The meticulous attention to detail and the thought process behind each aspect of the design showcase Ardalan’s commitment to creating not just a residence, but a home filled with character and warmth, resonating deeply with the family’s identity.
Photography by Ludovic Balay.