In a remarkable endeavor, architect Cyrus Ardalan has revitalized a 65-square-meter apartment located within a distinguished 1966 Parisian residential edifice, infusing it with a contemporary spirit while honoring its modernist roots. The transformation introduces an expansive, sun-drenched living area immediately accessible from the entrance, seamlessly merging spaces for lounging, dining, and working. Defining transitions within this open-plan layout are meticulously crafted glass-paste elements, which, rather than serving as mere ornamentation, function as integral components to articulate surfaces and boundaries. This distinctive material is ingeniously incorporated into the kitchen island, dining surface, and shower enclosure, contributing to a cohesive and refined aesthetic.
The project's organizational blueprint is largely dictated by its material selections, with plywood playing a pivotal role in establishing both visual harmony and spatial hierarchy. Its carefully chosen hue, mirroring the existing window frames, ensures that new additions complement the apartment's original character. This versatile material extends continuously from the main living zone into the adjacent hallway and sleeping quarters, skillfully shaping volumes without the need for excessive barriers. Through precise fabrication and alignment, integrated storage solutions, such as drawer fronts, are virtually concealed, forming smooth, unbroken surfaces that enhance the sense of continuity and openness within the home.
This innovative renovation by Cyrus Ardalan transcends mere aesthetic upgrade; it’s a thoughtful exploration into maximizing functionality and enhancing daily living within urban constraints. The apartment, situated in a vibrant district renowned for its markets and cultural hotspots, embodies a progressive vision for residential design. By retaining elements like the original single-glazed window frames and communal gas heating, Ardalan grounds the modernization in the building’s authentic context, showcasing how a deep understanding of material logic and spatial economy can profoundly influence lifestyle and well-being. This project stands as a testament to the potential for creating purposeful and beautiful environments that respect their heritage while embracing the future.