In the privacy of a cobbled courtyard in Paris’s 7th arrondissement, a former coachman’s shed has been brought back to life. Designed for a Franco-American couple and their son, this historic cocoon of a duplex has been nicknamed the “shoeplex” by its inhabitants.
Right from the entrance, exuberant wallpaper, creamy white and cabochon flooring combine to create a warm, welcoming décor where every object seems to have always been part of the home.
Ashley poses in front of the kitchen, which is kitted out in vintage finds and family heirlooms.
Punctuated by Zara Home handles and gilded brass details, the ensemble boasts a discreet antique charm.
Backing onto the courtyard, the living room enjoys precious natural light for a ground floor.
In this sea of blue, the WC stands out with its red wallpaper in bucolic motifs.
…amid the ground floor, decked out as it is in this cheerfully narrative blue wallpaper.
Hatted leopards, red lanterns and blue pagodas enliven the walls with a bespoke pattern, designed via European manufacturer Spoonflower.
Upstairs, the floor plan was completely reworked to create two bedrooms and a shower room to accommodate parents Ashley and Matt, as well as their son Henri.
Optimized to provide a true sleeping area, the room features a custom-made bed and built-in storage. Once the door to the staircase is closed, the landing becomes a private, well-thought-out bedroom in its own right.
The shower room extends from Henri’s bedroom, and is also accessible from the primary bedroom. On the floor, the contrast of the cabochon meets the white and black earthenware of the walls.
Also accessed from its own landing, the primary bedroom nestles under the original beams, painted white to accentuate the natural light.
The untouched fireplace at the end of the bed and the custom-made woodwork create a cozy, intimate space, without compromising on functionality.
