Step Inside This Stylish Haussmannian Home in Paris

In the hands of two professional enthusiasts of interior design and true art and design lovers, this Haussmannian home was beautifully transformed into a lavish home.

What is a Haussmannian building?

Haussmann’s renovation of Paris was a vast public works programme commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III and directed by his prefect of Seine, Georges-Eugène Haussmann, between 1853 and 1870. These buildings with historic significance were typically constructed of massive cut stone blocks and, above a ground floor and basement, typically had a “between” floor, with load-bearing walls. A second floor typically boasts a wrought iron balcony and elaborate cut stonework around the windows.

The two Canadians that took charge of their own home design, John Gerhardt, global creative director at Moët Hennessy, and his husband, Boris Masip, a fintech entrepreneur, fell in love with the apartment’s original structure as soon as they entered it. Even though the apartment was not located in what they first thought would be the neighbourhood they planned to settle in, in Paris, it was still love at first sight.

The magical Haussmannian home called their attention and lured them in. Now, after two years, the couple couldn’t be happier with their choice. The apartment is beautiful with amazing views and incredible natural lighting throughout the day. This is especially true in the afternoons. After furnishing it with a more modern look, the home now looks exactly how they imagined it would be. It is a modern retreat filled with pieces that combine and complement the couple’s style.

Buy what you love

Strategically following a designer’s quote, they both believe in “buy what you love, and you will always find a place to fit it in”.  The chosen pieces thus reflect their identity and what they like to represent throughout the apartment.

Although each has its own favourite spot in the house, the living room is the most welcoming area of the apartment. They are both great hosts and love to entertain. They aim to make their guests feel included and part of their home. And it needs to be as friendly and reflective of their personalities as possible.

The Bernhardt sofa was purchased at Kiosk in Toronto and serves as the centerpiece of the living room. It is strategically positioned in front of the fireplace. It is the piece that puts together all the other furniture, the handpicked pieces from different countries the couple lived in or visited. ​​The pillows are from a Belgian shop called the Corner Studio. Furthermore, the antique gilt mirror is from the Paris Flea Market, while the geometric rug by the Rug Company puts together the look of the living room.

Via