APARTMENT IN PARIS

PURCHASING & STYLING

Paris is famed for its iconic cuisine, art, history and culture - and has in recent years become a desirable location to own a home. The architectural elements of Parisian apartments are easily identifiable from the use of white walls, parquet floors, floor to ceiling windows and built-in shelves.

When considering investing in Parisian real estate in central Paris, there are many factors to consider in both purchasing and decorating your new dream home for that very “je ne sais quoi”.  We have compiled our insightful recommendations to help you navigate the beautiful boulevards of Paris and their infamous luxurious decorating style. 

BUYING AN APARTMENT IN PARIS

DISTRICT

Choosing the perfect arrondissement or district is essential to suit your personality. Each area has unique characteristics tailored to your lifestyle desires. It’s important to spend time in each district, there are 20, to experience the location and its offerings and your emotion towards it - as it will be your new dream home.

Outside the centre of Paris, there are many modern and beautiful apartments and iconic landmarks. The 7th arrondissement for example has iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, whilst the 16th has views of the River Seine. The further you venture out the more contemporary the architecture becomes, however you will find larger properties.

FLOOR LAYOUT

Luxury apartment floor layouts differ from those in the UK - it is important to understand that the ground floor is actually the first floor. So ensure when apartment hunting that you view properties that are not based on the ground level floor unless that is your chosen preference. It is also worthwhile to note that whilst the modern apartments may have lifts, more traditional apartments will have staircases.

PRIVATE PARKING

Paris streets are paved for walking and exploring but can be difficult to navigate. If you prefer to drive around the city then ensure to seek private parking for your luxury apartment. This may narrow down your apartment selection but having a parking space may potentially increase the resale value of the property.

RENTING OUT

Paris may not be your main home or you may not live there all year long, during the interim you may wish to rent your home whilst you are out of town. If this may be one of your requirements consider a property closer to the centre for tourist attractions.

DECORATE LIKE A TRUE PARISIAN

CELEBRATE IMPERFECTIONS

Create a charmful apartment by drawing attention to special features such as antiques, rather than simply having new and shiny decorative pieces. The French are renowned for their acquired taste and appreciate the detailing and an effortless approach. The interior design of a Parisian apartment tends to be less overstyled but still reflect the character of the space - proudly showcase your art and books.

EMBRACE HISTORY

History is evident outside on the streets of Paris but try to bring a piece into your home without turning it into a museum. The most adored Parisian interiors have a contrast of styles and periods - reflected through collector’s items, furniture origin and family heirlooms. We recommend not sourcing all soft furnishings from a single store but aiming for a variety of styles for an eclectic and vibrant space, which will naturally evolve over time.

LUXURY MOOD

Parisians have a high standard for comfort - every item must look and feel luxurious from soft furnishings and lighting. Choose classic chandeliers and modern suspensions to create ambience in each room. Don’t depend on single-source lighting but create balance with dimmers and multiple light sources from table lamps to floor lamps and candlelight.

THE FRENCH TOUCH

Intricate elements such as vintage furnishings and custom square linen pillows and bespoke floral wallpaper can pay homage to the city of Romance - and elegantly share your adoration with your visitors. The essential elements include; a gold mirror, a vintage rug, a statement armchair, an extravagant chandelier, ornate vases, dried flowers, candles, contemporary art, coffee table books and an antique masterpiece.

MUTED COLOUR PALETTE

Think Chanel when it comes to the muted colour palette of black, white and grey for a classic Parisian style - sophisticated, elegant and timeless. These simple colours set the foundation of your luxury apartment. Accent colours of blush pink, emerald green on statement-making furniture can infuse a shot of colour without being empowering to the overall decor.