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This is the story of a young man who decided to makeover his grandmother’s apartment with the aim of maintaining a close connection with his family. An apartment that had seen the birth of an entire generation and that Antonin wanted to dust off. Thanks to the support of his friend Samantha Hauvette, one half of the architect duo Hauvette & Madhani – who he shared part of the space with for many years – the transformation breathed new life into the apartment. Fans of interior design, the photographer and his wife, Elisa, cleverly paired family furniture with more contemporary pieces, with a special nod to creations by the Bouroullec brothers evidenced by the fabulous Ploum sofa in its XXL version and AIM pendant lights. A very big commitment for this young couple who amaze us with their maturity and bold approach! “Not taking risks” couldn’t be further from the philosophy of this 1960-1970 interior design enthusiast.
My grandmother was born in the living room, and spent all her life here. So since I was little, all family celebrations were held here. It’s up to us to continue the tradition.
Antonin, could you introduce yourself?
I’m a photographer of still life and pretty girls… It’s something that was inherited from father to son.
What is your typical day at home?
I do everything to not have one. But ideally if I can start by reading a book in a bath.
How did you find this apartment and on what basis did you make your choice?
Rather, it was the apartment that found us. My grandmother was born in the living room, and spent all her life here. So since I was little, all family celebrations were held here. It’s up to us to continue the tradition.
In terms of style and decoration at home, how did you split the roles?
Once we had taken on the apartment you can imagine it had to have a slight refreshment. As I have lived with a roommate in a part of this very apartment before, with my best friend Samantha Hauvette who is an architect, we naturally worked on it together, and with Elisa, to redo everything. There was no real roles. Although sometimes I needed restraint because I like to mix everything, but in general we all three have the same tastes.
How do you manage family life and having a nice decor?
I’m not sure I have even asked myself this question… But since Léo began to walk we had to stash away items. So I am automatically persuading myself that I like objects with character, memory and history. When she vomits on the couch for example, I tell myself it’s adding sentimental value.
What furniture styles do you like? Do you have any eras in particular? An artist you cherish?
So, I adore the interiors of the 1960’s and 1970’s but the space we have isn’t exactly typical of those eras, especially because we did choose to keep the fireplaces and ceiling height. I like to be around things of those eras. After, I don’t know enough about the history of deco to cherish an artist but the little that I do know, I like the Bouroullec brothers.
Where do you like to get your antique furniture? And for you daughter’s bedroom?
Sometimes I use the internet, sites such as Leboncoin, Selency but I’m not so much of a fan. The other day I received a rug and it was not at all what I expected. So I prefer a walk at the Saint-Ouen, flea markets and car boot sales in the country. For the best places, you must ask Sam as I never remember the names she gives me!
Any bargains or cheap parts of your home of which you are proud of?
My Togo sofa that I have had for 10 years. I went with a friend to a large sort of large storage/ deposit sale out in the suburbs. I saw the Togo sofa and immediately adopted it. The piece was mine without them knowing what it was and long after I realised how much of a beautiful piece it was. It’s followed me to all my apartments ever since.
Your favorite piece?
My 11 months daughter… And in terms of decor, a Michael Jordan signed t-shirt that my friends gave to me for my 30th birthday!
A restaurant recommendation?
In Paris, I like to try new restaurants so not too many habits. A regular spot close to my house is Chez Thaï restaurant in Neuilly. I used to go to as a child because it was the restaurant of my father’s friend and then the friend took it over and it’s one of my absolute favourites. Just down from my house, Le Bistro d’Oscar, always provides a surprise from the chef!
I adore the interiors of the 1960’s and 1970’s but the space we have isn’t exactly typical of those eras, especially because we did choose to keep the fireplaces and ceiling height.
Photography & Text: Constance Gennari @thesocialitefamily
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