fbpx
Close

Architectural and decorative details make this small Paris apartment stand out

Heju Design were commissioned by two photographers to create a home that prioritises functionality

“Our projects are the result of a deep spatial and functional thinking, consistent with the essence of the place and the lifestyle of our clients,” say Hélène Pinaud and Julien Schwartzmann, the creative French minds behind interior architecture studio Heju. The young duo met while they were studying in Strasbourg and, after graduating, they decided to launch their studio (six years ago) in Paris. Since then, they have been expressing themselves through private and commercial projects, which reflect Japanese and Scandinavian influences through timeless and poetic spaces. While the colour white is the base of their work, Pinaud and Schwartzmann introduce colours to create contrasts and highlight a specific shape or architectural elements, striving to bring to life atmospheres that awaken all senses and create emotions. “For us, beauty lies in the simplest details,” they say.

Located in the lively 11th arrondissement in Paris, this 45-square metre apartment with a balcony is situated on the fifth floor of a typical Haussmann building. For their first home purchased together, the young couple of Parisian photographers trusted Heju Studio to renovate and reorganise the different spaces. The star-shaped plan comprises an entrance/corridor that gives access to the bathroom (which used to be the kitchen), a separate toilet, the bedroom and the main living area consisting of the living room, dining area and kitchen.

“Originally, the main living area was divided into two, and we chose to open it entirely in order to make the most of the volume,” says Pinaud. “We also added a rounded wall in the entrance (that you can see from the other side of the bathroom) to create free-flowing spaces.”

Optimisation and personality were at the heart of the concept. “The client wanted a minimalist apartment with colourful touches and natural materials,” Schwartzmann says. “We were completely aligned in terms of inspirations.” Warm and soft tones prevail, while pops of colour visually divide the space. This is the case in the office nook that connects the living room to the kitchen, and with the green ceiling that delimits the area where the couple eats. The stone flooring with a shower in zellige in the bathroom, the terrazzo in the kitchen, waxed concrete in some parts of the walls (including the alcove in the bedroom) and the two types of wood (oak and walnut) are intended to develop patina over time for added character.

“As the apartment is small, we wanted to create an intimate architecture, [and] a comforting and minimalist cocoon at the same time,” the interior architects explain. “We were inspired by the work of designer Frédéric Pellenq. We actually installed the handles he designed on the doors of the bookshelves in the living room.”

In addition to the furniture and lighting pieces by Ferm Living, Marcel Breuer, Charlotte Perriand, Flos and Contain (among other names), the duo designed a made-to-measure dining table specifically for this project. “We wanted feet with a light texture,” they say. “It took us time to find the right effect and balance, but we are very happy with the result.”

Through their sensible approach, where raw and minimal elements mix with strong lines and soft hues in a calm ambience, Pinaud and Schwartzmann reflected the owners’ personalities. “We found the tones of their films and photographs,” the interior architects say. “Our client didn’t want any light coming from the ceiling because, according to them, it doesn’t create a beautiful light. So we had to find other solutions and we did it through many sconces and table lamps.” Always transforming constraints into opportunities, Heju Studio masters the art of simplicity in their own way.

The Latest

In Tune with Nature

The Al Fanar School designed by Emkaan in Nad Al Sheba, Dubai subconsciously teaches lessons in adaptability

The Art of Curation

We interview Karine Obegi, CEO of OBEGI Home, about the brand’s early beginnings, its evolution into a regional design authority, and what lies ahead

Read ‘New Generations’ – Note from the editor – June 2025

Read identity magazine's June 2025 edition on ISSUU or grab your copy at the newsstands.

Atlas Concorde

Atlas Concorde Releases One Space and Tratto

The brand releases an ecosystem of surfaces, furniture, and design objects that includes an exclusive collection by Piero Lissoni.

Edginess in Shenzhen

This contemporary duplex with glowing accents brings a touch of Paris elegance to one of China’s booming cities

Technogym Artis

Technogym’s new Artis Luxury line blends style and design

High-performance wellness meets seamless integration of advanced technology, sustainability, and timeless style.

Things to Covet – May 2025

Here are the latest releases that we spotted at Milan Design Week

AMAN NAI LERT

A Contemporary Sanctuary Rooted in Thai Heritage

The newest Aman hotel in Bangkok offers culture, craft and timeless design

LUTRON

Light as a Design Statement

Lutron’s Alisse Keypads and S-Curve Shades are elevating Middle Eastern interiors with seamless control and sculptural beauty

Optical Delight

Influenced by the geometric formation of crystals, Arctic elegantly captures and refracts light

Downtown Design Riyadh

Highlights from Downtown Design Riyadh

From collectible creations and immersive installations to Saudi-driven showcases, the Kingdom’s first high-end contemporary design fair spotlighted local vision and global design excellence.