When architect Lukas Rungger first encountered a client’s Pied-à-Terre in a historic building in Paris, he didn’t envision putting a round peg in a square hole. But when they mentioned the perfect design and durability of a nautilus shell, this founder of NOA* Network of Architecture envisioned a design opportunity.
When Rungger was commissioned to design the second-floor unit that overlooks the courtyard, it was completely bare except for a load-bearing wall and a large welcoming door. Now, this L-shaped room exudes a swirling energetic flow, reflecting the beautiful patterned spirals of a nautilus shell. Rungger’s approach allowed the unit, which was originally part of a royal household in the 1600s, to flow and meet the needs of a modern family who often travels to Paris for work in the fashion industry, but who lives in Italy.
“The owners were fascinated by geometry and pure clean lines,” notes Rungger. “We found a way to translate this passion into the design.”
The nautilus pattern becomes an architectural element throughout the apartment. From the bleached oak floors that are set in a french herringbone pattern to the oak staircase with a double curvature, the living spaces unfold naturally.
Photography by Antoine Huot.
For more like this Paris Pied-à-Terre, be sure to check out this revised apartment in the Opéra District.
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