Enchanting pied-à-terre on the Ile Saint-Louis

Quai de Bourbon, at the very heart of historic Paris… Within its gallant walls, this apartment in the Hôtel Jassaud d’Arquainvilliers, built in 1640, brings back to life the atmosphere of bourgeois residences of yesteryear, with a breathtaking view of the Seine.

In a neighbourhood which has retained its soul and identity, that of the real old Paris, this apartment plays admirably on the codes of a certain clas­sicism. To reach it, a few steps in a pretty paved courtyard, then the stairs to the 2nd floor. The entrance hall opens out immediately to a vast drawing-room with a fireplace and bookcases, where three tall windows offer a view of the Seine as a backcloth. At first glance, the most striking aspect is the special atmosphere of this room which sparks one’s imagination, and the warmth it conveys. Wood panelling adorns the walls, Versailles parquet the floor, while the ceiling offers exposed beams.

Volumes blossom out as one discovers the 160 m2 of this apartment laid out to give rooms both vast and peaceful. Like the drawing-room, the dining-room overlooks the Seine. Here one finds a fireplace with a huge moulded mirror and furnishings which explore the richness of another era. Without any obstacles or hallways, one goes from one room to the next, in a very rational sequence, finally reaching the kitchen. Warm and inviting, it takes us on a trip back in time, lively at all times of day with its traditional red tiles, wooden furniture, chandelier, copper cooking utensils, and check curtains framing a window overlooking the courtyard.

In its lounge, tall windows invite leafy trees to participate in its decor.

In its lounge, tall windows invite leafy trees to participate in its decor.

The enchanting leafy backcloth provided by the Ile Saint-Louis and the blue of the sky are framed by all the windows. Intimate glimpses of the world outside, worthy of contemplation and playing an important role.

The enchanting leafy backcloth provided by the Ile Saint-Louis and the blue of the sky are framed by all the windows. Intimate glimpses of the world outside, worthy of contemplation and playing an important role.

This apartment of 160 m2 comprised of 4 main rooms in classic style contemplates the Ile Saint-Louis. On offer at 4,410,000 €, it comes with an optional box-garage at 150,000 € and a maid’s room at 160,000 €.

This apartment of 160 m2 comprised of 4 main rooms in classic style contemplates the Ile Saint-Louis. On offer at 4,410,000 €, it comes with an optional box-garage at 150,000 € and a maid’s room at 160,000 €.

The bedroom is invaded by a cascade of light, dancing on the walls covered with fabric. A fitted beige carpet prolongs the unity of powdery tones, with the bed majestically enthroned in this soothing room with two tall windows giving a glimpse outside. Delicate colours which continue on their way to the bathroom, where wood flirts with marble and an oversize mirror above the bathtub.

This smoothly flowing apartment of heady charm subscribes to the continuity of a past, that of a romantic Paris at a time when one could enjoy the delightfulness of each passing day… “There is real authenticity and a truly special atmosphere here,” says Guilhem Carvès. “The generous proportions of the rooms and the old timber features make a great contribution to the stylishness of the apartment which, thanks to its location, also offers a very beautiful view of one of the most magnif­icent neighbourhoods in Paris.”

Agence Varenne (01 45 55 79 10 - www.agencevarenne.fr).