Perched atop a 1970s Parisian building, Apartment A offers a breathtaking reimagining of city living. Designed by Heros Architecture, this transformative duplex apartment on the 7th and 8th floors masterfully blurs the lines between interior sanctuary and the vibrant Parisian landscape. The residence unfolds generously onto two lush, planted terraces, creating verdant outdoor extensions that serve as true havens for relaxation amidst the urban sprawl. Embracing architectural minimalism and drawing inspiration from Japanese principles, the project is defined by its clean lines, open volumes, and a profound connection to nature and light.
The intervention commenced with a bold architectural gesture: significantly extending the 7th-floor terrace. This newly created space now houses a spacious kitchen and a luminous dining room, bathed in natural light. Above this, a discreet structure elegantly stretches the volume upwards, seamlessly connecting to the rooftop terrace. This strategic move establishes a direct, fluid link between the two levels while dramatically opening panoramic perspectives towards the iconic Parisian sky. The building’s façades were entirely reimagined, with openings enlarged to foster a constant, enriching dialogue between the inside and outside.
Stepping inside reveals a space liberated from conventional constraints. Heros Architecture meticulously removed all non-structural partitions, courageously exposing the raw concrete structure of the original building. This robust, honest framework forms the foundational canvas for the new layout. Within this open volume, essential functions are ingeniously integrated into custom-crafted technical cores. Clad in sophisticated natural anodized aluminum, these sleek volumes conceal a wealth of necessities: comprehensive storage spaces, sanitary facilities, climate control systems, and even a retractable bed. This bespoke tailor-made setup achieves remarkable spatial efficiency without sacrificing the apartment’s inherent sense of openness and flow.
The subtle yet powerful influence of Japanese architecture is palpable, particularly in the innovative floor treatment. A sequence of elevated wooden platforms gracefully rhythm the progression through the living spaces. Rather than rigidly defining rooms, these platforms suggest uses and gently guide movement, embodying a sense of flexibility and calm. Crucially, they also facilitate seamless, level access onto the terraces, effectively erasing thresholds. This deliberate design choice prioritizes the breathtaking panoramic views of Paris that unfold beyond the expansive glazing, making the cityscape an integral part of the daily experience.
Through these generous openings, the vibrant tapestry of Paris becomes a living mural, complemented by the abundant vegetation adorning the terraces. The interplay of lush greenery against the urban backdrop cultivates a unique atmosphere – a genuine urban oasis suspended above the city’s energy. The carefully curated outdoor extensions are not mere balconies but integral living spaces, enhancing the apartment’s serene, retreat-like quality and reinforcing the connection to the natural environment even at this height.
Conceived as a contemporary refuge, this Parisian duplex apartment by Heros Architecturemasterfully synthesizes lightness, rigorous functionality, and exquisite material precision. It stands as an eloquent testament to an architecture of essentials: where every structural gesture is deliberate, every material – from the raw concrete to the refined anodized aluminum and warm wood – is chosen for its inherent resonance, and every opening is meticulously conceived as a frame onto life. Apartment A is more than a home; it’s a calibrated experience of space, light, and the enduring beauty of Paris.