Apartment Avenue de Versailles

The commission undertaken by AIM Hanemian Architects was to transform a traditional 1930s apartment with its entrance and bedroom facing the Seine, and kitchen and bathroom looking out on to the courtyard, into a loft opened up completely to the banks of the Seine; the aim was to let the whole of the property enjoy this new view out to the East.

AIM Hanemian Architects decided to open up the entrance wall, which masked the view, retaining only the load-bearing sections, and remove the partition between the bedroom and the small living room to make a large living room. It was also decided to re-design the kitchen to be like a furniture unit in this space and to fit all the cupboards into sculpture-like pieces of furniture. They would thus resemble the large bookshelf with its beveled edges installed in receding tiers to create an impression of height. Wooden panels on the opposite wall pick up the outline of the shelves. The bedroom has been re-located in the former kitchen to benefit from the peace and quiet of the courtyard part of the property layout.

The original windows have been replaced by 1cm thick glass panes to provide sound-proofing throughout, and the timber base has been replaced by glass to let in light at night from the outside spotlights installed on the balcony. The development is completed by Olivia de Pazzis Hanemian and AIM Hanemian Architects -designed furniture in a very contemporary style, giving a dynamic and futuristic feel to the whole.

The immediate impression is one of light and calm complemented by an exceptional view over the Seine.