Houzz Tour: A Tiny Flat in Paris Gets a Bright and Colourful New Look
A disused service area that had been uninhabited for 30 years is transformed into a compact yet creative small flat
Architect Stéphanie Bertina Minal was brought in to transform a dilapidated 215 square foot apartment and allow it to fulfil its potential. She was excited about the high ceilings, the original mouldings, the beams and the balcony, since she particularly enjoys spotting talent and potential hidden behind old wallpapers and partition walls.
Houzz at a Glance
Location Paris, France
Size 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Architect Stéphanie Bertina Minal
Houzz at a Glance
Location Paris, France
Size 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Architect Stéphanie Bertina Minal
It’s difficult to believe that this space used to be a dark service area for the house help many years ago. The layout of the space was rather strange, with 3 adjoining rooms in just 215 square feet. Stéphanie decided that the best way forward was to highlight its assets, like the discovery of these beautiful wooden beams. The period features blend beautifully in the space - a timeless touch in a contemporary atmosphere.
The corner bathroom was created from scratch. To compensate for the lack of natural light, a glass door was installed. ‘A vertical luminous column was also added between the kitchen and the bathroom,’ says Stéphanie. The main electrical panels and fittings are stored behind a mirrored wall that visually enhances the size of the room and avoids a cluttered look.
To maximise space, the appliances are located along the wall. The washing machine is in the cupboard. The bright blue wall is the result of a desire to give a strong character to the small space.
Check out 12 designs to maximise a compact space
Check out 12 designs to maximise a compact space
To unify all rooms of the apartment, wood-like floorboards run throughout. They’re both aesthetically pleasing and very practical. ‘I also created the illusion of a carpet in the kitchen with the addition of cement tiles,’ says Stéphanie. She added LED lighting under cabinets and skirting boards to keep the space feeling bright and open.
The bathroom is very compact. Stéphanie chose the different fittings due to their small sizes. The heated towel rail is extra thin and the mirror conceals extra storage space. The purple mosaic tiles echo the bedroom and give the space a little boost. The shower features wood-imitation tiles, which are easy to maintain. Thanks to the glass door, the bathroom is surprisingly bright.
See ways to add style to a small bathroom
See ways to add style to a small bathroom
The room leading to the balcony is a storage area and study. The balcony looks over a large garden. The room benefits from plenty of light thanks to the wide door and mirrored wardrobes. Work needed to be done on insulation and waterproofing to enable this room to be functional. ‘Never be defeated by lack of space, a study can be only a foldable table away,’ advises Stéphanie.
TELL US…
What do you think about this small Parisian flat? Tell us in the Comments below.
TELL US…
What do you think about this small Parisian flat? Tell us in the Comments below.