A duplex renovated by Cyrielle Wattinne
One renovation approach: knock everything down, then build it all again from scratch. Cyrielle Wattinne did exactly that: from floor to ceiling and over 5 months of construction, she oversaw the total rebirth of an outdated 130 m2 duplex apartment. The first step was to create a layout that made sense for the lifestyle of Marylaure, Antoine and their two daughters. The next step involved reinterpreting design codes of the past and present through carefully chosen details. With each door in light wood, along with balanced tones and clever touches on each floor, the interior designer reveals the behind-the-scenes of this timeless, heart-warming project.
Let's take you along for the ride!
A blank canvas
The starting point was to merge the dining room with the original living room to create one large living space, reintroducing some Haussmann style (without being cliché). Several months of construction and one big demolition later, here we have the result. Mouldings, white paint and Hungarian point floor: traditional elements are really highlighted here. Except for two details mentioned here: "The floor that we worked in is a lighter and brighter shade, and the colour of the bookcase adds a breath of fresh air." A modern touch, reinforced by the table shape and sculptural light fixture.
Trompe l'oeil
First designed by Cyrielle, then custom-made, this XXL bookcase embodies the personality of the room. Combining various sizes of open modules and closed cupboards, this piece offers space and creativity. Look closely: the wicker-clad doors actually hide the radiator and mini-bar, and mirrors glued to the bottom alcoves highlight the different angles. These are simple touches to the space, yet so effective!
A luminous bubble
Now over to the living room, where two sofas inherited from Antoine and Marylaure's old apartment set the tone. "It's going to be all white, and that’s that!” Once the basis was set, Cyrielle added her touch: an open space here, and some warmth there. The bio-ethanol fireplace is hidden discreetly inside a box frame, on top of which rests a vintage mirror. Near the window, high shelves leave room below for an armchair and an assortment of decorative objects. Sleek (but still cosy).
The only way is wood
Although the kitchen layout underwent a couple of changes, the overall ‘look’ is clear. "Marylaure and Antoine wanted it to be minimalist and warm.” So naturally, Cyrielle opted for our U-Shape design in natural oak, rather than choosing cold handles and materials. And whilst the kitchen’s technical appliances are hidden behind high columns, the lower module reflects the daylight, thanks to its clean-finish worktop. A simple custom-made shelf is also integrated into the wall at an angle, another clean line added to the overall unit.
Rounding off the corners
In the dining area, Cyrielle opted for custom-made elements with rounded shapes. "As they are designed in a curved shape, the table and the whiteware fit more easily into the corner of the room, which also softens the architectural lines of the kitchen.” This play with curves and oak is present right up to the ceiling. Set into the wall overlooking the corridor, this shape partitions the space and opens up the view to the rest of the flat. Clever!
Creating a bedroom cocoon
Welcome to the master suite, situated at the end of the corridor, on the left. Cyrielle tells us, "I love placing carpets in the bedroom!” This plush carpet was what really formed the basis for the couple's bedroom. From there, Cyrielle created a theme with soft colours and warm wood. The wardrobe runs along one wall: this is the centrepiece of the room. "As its size is relatively imposing, we wanted to give the wardrobe a real decorative role, made possible through the wicker finish that covers the made-to-measure doors.” Finally, the headboard adds to the overall cocoon effect, along with some extra storage space and light features.
Decorative objects
Marylaure and Cyrielle worked closely to perfect even the smallest of details. And the bathroom is no exception. By mixing velvety colours and natural materials, it continues to radiate the cosy spirit of the adjoining master bedroom. Whilst the mirror increases the feeling of space, the shower alcove and its mix of white and black mosaics is super eye-catching. We know it took a long time to install, but there are certainly no regrets here: it's like a hotel, (only better)!
Powder puff
The only indication of a children’s bathroom here is the bathtub. For the rest, Cyrielle has designed a timeless universe, which really reflects Marylaure's tastes. "She loves pink, Antoine a little less.” A pot of peach paint and a stack of mosaic tiles later, here it is, a colour that envelopes the room with subtle warmth. As for the details, we see again the flat’s signature materials: brass taps, and wood for the custom-made furniture, its drawers covered with old-fashioned radiator covers. Now, time to dive into the bath.
The magic of carpentry
The brief was clear: this little girl's room had to be - and remain - organised! No problem for Cyrielle. She used made-to-measure carpentry to realign the walls, which also created a lot of storage space. In the corner, the bed rests on a base, with drawers below which are within easy reach. Extending from the headboard, several cupboards create a wardrobe, and on the end sits a bookshelf built from the open modules. Painted in subtle pastel colours, with sweet wooden handles as details, this room echoes the harmony found throughout the home.
Mission: optimisation
With its bold wallpaper and carefully-planned layout, the eldest child's bedroom on the first floor of the flat has a distinctly geometric style. From the bookcase created where a chimney once lived, to the plywood storage bench that extends into a desk, all was well thought-out: "Above all, I designed this layout so that it would stand the test of time and remain useful in 10 years for now," explains Cyrielle. This look was created with a mix of light wood and deep bluish grey.
Trait(s) d'esprit
Often neglected, the corridor and the staircase can be seen as ‘dead space’. Not here, where Cyrielle has given them real personality. From the entrance, the black paint sets the tone, stretching from the door to the walls, creating a cosy box effect. The long corridor, serving all the rooms on the first floor, is covered in bold wallpaper to bring some movement to the space. Along the staircase, the cloud detailing invites you to climb the steps, which are painted black. Cyrielle’s final tip here: "both in pairs and placed off-centre, adding light spots can sculpt the space even more".
We’re inspired by…
- Using oak and brass from room to room, creating a timeless theme. Mirrors that cover the lower modules of a bookcase to make the room feel more spacious.
- Nude, peach or pastel paints: the use of pink in all shades.
- Black paint and bold use of wallpaper to enhance the hallway, entrance and staircase.
