PA RIS MATCH
Studio Hauvette & Madani used oak and maple to update a historic apartment for one French family
THE IDEA Designed by André Lurçat in 1927 for the painter Walter Guggenbühl, the Villa Guggenbühl lies in the 14th arrondissement opposite Parc Montsouris. The building was converted into two apartments and the project involved renovating one across three floors. Samantha Hauvette and Lucas Madani love how wood can change the dynamic of an interior. ‘It brings a little drama to the decor,’ says Samantha.
THE FITTING The kitchen and dining room on the mezzanine were custom-made with stained oak sourced in France. The panels have a warmth and richness that makes them the perfect foil to a vintage Florence Knoll table, Serge Mouille chandelier and 1970s chairs.
In the living room, a custom bench seat in stained maple is tucked under a staircase that is wrapped in the same material. ‘We’ve been working with maple for a while now and we really love the tints you get,’ continues Samantha.
The structure of the wood resembling burl wood strikes a perfect balance with the oak. ‘We love mixing different woods to avoid the “total look” effect,’ she adds.
THE BENEFITS By utilising wood throughout, the apartment now has a quiet confidence that acknowledges the history of the building without being overawed by it. As Samantha says, ‘Natural materials can bring a special atmosphere.’ hauvette-madani.com
‘WE LOVE MIXING DIFFERENT WOODS
TO AVOID THE “TOTAL LOOK“EFFECT’