Apartment Trocadero by Rodolphe Parente

Photography © Olivier Amsellem.

Our clever French friend, Rodolphe Parente, has sent us these exclusive images of his latest project – a spectacular Paris apartment located in a classic dressed-stone building in the Trocadero area, facing the Eiffel Towel. A terrible start this is not, but it’s what Mr Parente has done with it that counts. This generous 350sqm apartment of vast volumes and proportions features a series of heritage elements from the 18th century such as decorative mouldings, coffered ceilings, Chinese-influenced pediments and marble fireplaces. Oh baby… You had me at 18h century.

The owners of this apartment, a couple in their thirties with three children, are passionate art and contemporary furniture collectors who asked for a series of open spaces to display their impressive collections.

The main idea for the renovation was to propose sensible new interventions while respecting the heritage character of the space. The project involved refurbishment of the entire apartment – from partitions and walls, to ceilings, mouldings, trimmings, custom joinery and furniture and lighting selections.

Photography © Olivier Amsellem.

The approach for the project was based on a deep respect for the existing architecture while emphasising the significance of the existing volumes, and creating perfect opportunities for the the contemporary art and furniture collection to receive the attention they deserve. Alas, the result is not a contemplative or a “frozen space” – instead the apartment is designed as a place that feels comfortable and dedicated to family life. A warm atmosphere is created resulting from a series of bold and ambitious stylistic choices, underpinned with noble materials.

Here, marble and brass play a pivotal role in achieving an overall coherence between all the rooms. The walls and ceilings are painted in a colour reminiscent of raw porcelain. This delicacy is reinforced by the choice of a very light timber floor made of oak. Sprinkle a bit of silk, walnut, fine furniture and art on top – and I’m all over it. Well played Mr Parente!

Other projects by Rodolphe Parente on Yellowtrace:
Concrete Flat By Rodolphe Parente // Paris.
Apartment 108 By Rodolphe Parente // Paris.
Yeeels Paris Restaurant & Bar By Rodolphe Parente.