Callender Howorth has completed the meticulous refurbishment of a Belle Époque apartment in Paris, restoring its grandeur while reimagining it as a warm, eclectic, and romantic retreat for its Francophile American owners from California.
Once stripped of its original architectural details and left in a dated state, the apartment underwent a full-scale transformation. The design team took the space back to its bare bones, carefully reconfiguring the layout to enhance spatial flow. The refurbishment introduced generously proportioned bathrooms, a dedicated wine room, and a state-of-the art kitchen, ensuring the apartment seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary living. A key focus of the project was reinstating architectural details. Working closely with specialists at Stevensons of Norwich, Callender Howorth developed a bespoke design language for the paneling, ceilings, and doors, lending the space a renewed sense of grandeur.
A highlight of the restoration is the drawing room ceiling, custom-designed to incorporate delicate butterfly motifs – an homage to the client’s personal favorite symbol. The interior design concept embraces the idea of a “jewel box” – a series of rich, immersive spaces brought to life through vibrant hues, deeply patinated marbles, and striking textural contrasts. To enhance the apartment’s character, Callender Howorth curated an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furniture, balancing timeless elegance with a modern sensibility.
Art played a central role in the design narrative. In collaboration with San Francisco-based Lost Art Salon, the team curated a striking art wall in the dining room, featuring mid-century works that hold personal significance for the clients—many sourced from Ojai, their hometown in California. With a successful law practice in Ojai, the clients have structured their lives around their love for France, spending significant time in Paris and enrolling their children in the American School.
This newly transformed residence serves as their perfect European sanctuary—a space that honours their deep connection to the city while offering the comforts of home.
