Delve into the world of Elisa Meliani, an expert interior decorator, who recently breathed new life into a 130-square-meter Haussmann apartment, nestled in the exclusive rue du Faubourg St Honoré in Paris. Graced with an elegant and inviting design style, Meliani beautifully manipulates high-end materials, infusing each project with her signature touch of warmth.
Each corner of this apartment tells a story of meticulous renovation. Stepping in, a vibrant painting greets you at the entrance, setting the tone for the cultured sophistication to follow. The kitchen, a vision in snow-white and marble, underscores Meliani's preference for elegance. The living room is a haven of serenity, awash with natural light, featuring tasteful furniture pieces such as a cream-colored rounded sofa, a taupe coffee table, and two black Knoll Barcelona armchairs. Making it more exquisite, brass and onyx wall lights, custom-made by French artisans and designers at Entrelacs, gracefully illuminate the space.
Meliani's expertise doesn't stop at renovations alone – she doubles as an art advisor, taking pleasure in introducing her clients to the wonders of relatively unknown artworks and artists. The harmonious blend of her design and art advisory skills provide a unique and personalized experience for her clientele.
Preserving the Haussmann Charm
One of the standout highlights of this renovation is the careful preservation of the original Haussmann charm. In redefining the rooms to create a family space, the dining room was given a new lease of life as a minimalist, functional kitchen. The classic parquet flooring was preserved and moldings were faithfully recreated, while the wall color was gracefully transitioned from a mix of brown, orange, and beige, to a more soothing, lighter shade.
Overcoming Design Challenges
The redesigning of the other areas of the apartment brought about its own set of challenges. The kitchen was constructed anew, in the spot formerly occupied by the dining room. Former maid's rooms were reimagined into parent suites, complete with dressing rooms and functional bathrooms. With a budget of approximately 200,000 euros and six to eight months of hard work, excluding flooring, the apartment's transformation was complete.
EB Studio Paris – A New Venture
In 2021, Meliani embarked on a new journey, founding her own interior design firm, EB Studio Paris. Her aim – to offer premier services imbued with elegance and a contemporary feel. In just one year, the firm has successfully completed two projects: A spacious 400-square-meter house in Deauville, Normandy, and this Haussmann apartment in Paris. The Deauville project, a large, detail-oriented house, embodies Meliani's expertise in shaping a space that is modern, functional, and inviting. Here, she opted for neutral and calming colors and textures to evoke a sense of relaxation and tranquility.