Renowned French architect Joris Poggioli recently transformed his Paris apartment, skillfully blending modern minimalism with the rich architectural heritage of the Napoleon era. Located in a mansion once used as Napoleon Bonaparte’s office, the apartment reflects a harmonious mix of historical preservation and contemporary design.
Poggioli’s vision for the renovation was clear: maintain the “historic soul” of the 90-square-meter apartment while incorporating minimalist design elements that speak to the present day. “It was an opportunity to merge my passion for minimalism with the grandeur of Napoleon-era architecture,” he explained. This approach was not just about restoring the space but allowing the historical elements to stand out within a modern context.
Upon first encountering the apartment, Poggioli found that layers of flooring, insulation, and makeshift walls had obscured many of its original features. Through careful restoration, he uncovered beautiful parquet flooring, intricate moldings, and other architectural details hidden for decades.
The apartment’s grand proportions, especially the 4.2-meter-high ceilings, became a focal point for Poggioli’s design. “The soaring ceiling height was one of the most striking features of the apartment,” he noted. This influenced his decision to create a mezzanine-like upper floor and introduce an oversized headboard in the bedroom, enhancing the vertical space and giving the apartment a sense of grandeur.
Influenced by Napoleon’s historical connection to the building, Poggioli aimed to highlight the apartment’s natural light and expansive space without overwhelming its architectural bones. “I wanted my design to embrace the historical skeleton of the building, enhancing its spirit rather than competing with it,” he said.
The apartment also showcases an eclectic mix of sculptures and art. Pieces borrowed from a client, a collector of Amerindian art, and bowls designed by American artist Donald Judd are featured throughout the space. These elements represent a balance between tradition and modernity, much like the apartment itself.
Poggioli’s renovation of his Paris apartment is a stunning example of how modern minimalism can coexist with the grandeur of historical architecture, creating a space that honors the past while embracing the present.
