Nestled in the Parisian neighbourhood of Trocadéro, boasting vistas that optimise its proximity to the Eiffel Tower and Seine, Marseilles-born, Paris-based designer François Champsaur took up the gauntlet of gutting this beloved 500 square metre apartment that hadn’t been renovated in 40 years.

The space evokes the spirit of Japanese architecture, where the void is the most important space, while taking into consideration the owner’s desire for a dramatic transformation, necessary respect was paid to the historical underpinnings of the original architecture by overhauling false ceilings, narrow corridors, heavy doors and internal walls to let the light back in and breathe life into the storied home.

The space, elegantly partitioned with undulating wooden dividers, was also freshened with a classic palette of glass, bronze, marble and oak. Demanding visual scarcity so they may be adored for generations to come, the striking residence also spotlights stunning statement-making custom furnishings by Champsaur such as the green leather banquette, Mars chairs by Konstantin Grcic for ClassiCon as well as wrought iron pieces by Eric Schmitt, culminating in a dwelling that is both dramatic yet tranquil.