- Interior
The 1930s Art Deco apartment underwent a complete restoration under the guidance of interior designer Romain Chancel, exemplifying how heritage and contemporary sensibilities can coexist in perfect harmony. The project aimed to recapture the apartment’s original spirit while highlighting the understated elegance of its spaces. Authentic features, such as the walnut doors, marble fireplaces, and existing architectural details, were meticulously restored, ensuring that the soul of the home remained intact. At the same time, new cornices, inspired by the building’s façade, were introduced to enhance architectural coherence and create a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior.
In collaboration with cabinetmaker Alexandre Jamet, bespoke doors were designed to integrate naturally into the apartment, reflecting Chancel’s philosophy that new interventions should complement rather than compete with the original character of the space. The interiors were furnished exclusively with authentic Art Deco pieces by renowned designers including Eugène Printz, Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, Marc du Plantier, and Alfred Porteneuve. Each piece was carefully chosen for its elegance and fidelity to the style of the period, ensuring a harmonious and historically resonant ensemble. Custom-designed rugs by Thomas Coccimiglio (Éditions de Tapis) further enrich the spaces, introducing warmth and texture while reinforcing the apartment’s refined aesthetic.
The carpets add extra warmth and texture to the rooms and emphasise the balance between luxury and discretion
Conceived as an elegant pied-à-terre, the project exemplifies a delicate balance between historical authenticity and modern functionality. Every detail was considered, resulting in interiors that feel both timeless and contemporary. The final outcome was captured on film by Harry Crowder, whose photography emphasizes the depth, materiality, and warmth of the space, bringing the restored apartment vividly to life.
Romain Chancel’s approach is rooted in a deep sensitivity to the history and character of each place. Drawing inspiration from gardens, unique architectural sites, and abandoned spaces he explores and photographs across Europe, he treats each project as a story to be told. His work is defined by meticulous attention to detail, a constant dialogue between heritage and modernity, and a profound respect for the identity of every space. Timeless and intimately connected to nature, his interiors reflect a vision that brings memory, elegance, and contemporary needs into harmonious conversation. This Art Deco restoration stands as a testament to that philosophy, celebrating the beauty of heritage while offering a living environment that is both functional and exquisitely refined.
Photography by Harry Crowder
Text by Elke Aerts