The perfect apartment reveal – the Les Pierres Dorées in the 7th arrondissement!
On one of Madelyn’s first visits to the apartment that would become Les Pierres Dorées, she stepped out onto the long balcony and immediately saw what made this property so special. The balcony ran along the double living room and spacious main bedroom, overlooking classic Parisian architecture, a tree-lined boulevard below and, in the distance, the dome of Les Invalides catching the light.
Then, as if Paris wanted to make the moment even more memorable, bells from near Les Invalides began to ring.
AFTER: The vision of Les Pierres Dorées brought to life!
Madelyn already knew she had found a remarkable apartment, with classic Haussmannian bones, a grand south-facing façade and the kind of balcony that is so rare in Paris. But standing there, with the view in front of her and the bells in the distance, the vision for the renovation began to take shape. Working in collaboration with Ann Huff of Huff Harrington, Madelyn and the Paris Perfect team set out to bring back the apartment’s original splendor while creating a home designed for comfort and everyday Parisian living.
The name Les Pierres Dorées soon felt like a natural fit. Inspired by the golden dome of Les Invalides and the warm elegance of the apartment itself, it captures the spirit of a renovation inspired by light, craftsmanship and a deep love of Paris. Come along to see how this stunning Parisian apartment was transformed.
Defining the Big Vision
AFTER: An incredible amount of work happens behind the scenes to make this magic happen!
From the very beginning, this apartment had so much in its favor. The classic Haussmannian layout, high ceilings, ornate moldings, south-facing façade and long balcony all pointed to something exceptional. It had the elegance and scale of a grand Paris home, along with the light and views that made the possibilities feel immediately clear.
But even with all those beautiful original features, the layout needed to be reimagined for modern living. The kitchen was tucked away on the opposite side of the apartment near the entrance, far from the sunny front rooms and balcony. The bathroom layout also needed a rethink, with one full bathroom in the middle of the apartment, a separate toilet room and a small shower room connected to the main bedroom.
AFTER: The final floor plan of Les Pierres Dorées.
The biggest decision was to move the kitchen into the front of the apartment, where it could become part of the bright living and dining space. That one change unlocked the rest of the redesign, freeing the former kitchen to become a third bedroom and allowing the bathrooms to be transformed in a much more practical and comfortable way.
As always, Madelyn was involved throughout the process, from rethinking the layout to refining the details that would make the apartment feel welcoming and livable. Ann’s expert design eye brought together beautiful finishes, layered textures and her distinctive sense of style, all while preserving the character that made the apartment so special from the start.
Creating a Beautiful Open-Plan Living Space
AFTER: A masterful result with the comfortable and welcoming heart of the home at Les Pierres Dorées.
The double living room was one of this apartment’s greatest strengths from the start. Bright, spacious and south-facing, it opened through French doors onto the long balcony and was filled with the kind of natural light that makes a Paris apartment feel instantly special.
BEFORE: Large double living room had already been partially opened up.
Originally, this would have been two separate rooms: a living room and dining room, which explained the two entrances into the space you can see in the before photo above. A previous renovation had opened the rooms into one generous double living area, but the two doorways remained, creating a layout that felt slightly awkward.
BEFORE:The double entry to the living area was no longer needed.
BEFORE: Double living room had two entrances – to what would become the kitchen on the left and the living area on the right.
However, we loved that a portion of the original dividing wall had been preserved. It framed the view from one space into the other and created a natural sense of definition without closing off the light. Rather than remove that detail, we kept it and made it part of the new design. The doorway on the side that would become the kitchen was closed to create more usable wall space, while elegant wood paneling was added to enhance the apartment’s historical character and make the transition between the two areas feel more intentional.
BEFORE: The partial wall created a nice definition of the two spaces.
On the living room side, the original fireplace mantel remained exactly where it belonged, anchoring the space with classic Parisian elegance. This became the natural setting for a comfortable sitting area, designed to feel refined but never too formal. A contemporary sofa and swivel chairs were paired with a curated mix of antiques, creating a room that feels welcoming and very much at home within the apartment’s Haussmannian setting.
AFTER: Finding the perfect antique mirror and decor truly completes the space.
The finishing details bring so much warmth and personality to the space: custom Fischbacher satin curtains, 19th-century oil paintings, Brunschwig pillows and a decorative French barometer from the 1880s. Even the Samsung Frame TV was chosen with care, disappearing into the room as artwork so the living area keeps its calm, collected feeling.
AFTER: Gorgeous details in the living room.
Adding these final layers is always one of the great joys of a renovation. From visits to antique markets to finding just the right artwork, textiles and decorative pieces, these are the details that give an apartment its personality. They create the sense of a real home, so that from the moment you arrive, Les Pierres Dorées feels ready to be lived in.
BEFORE: Kitchen and dining area would be added to opposite side of double living room.
On the other side of the opening in the living room, the transformation was just as important. With the kitchen originally located near the entrance on the opposite side of the apartment, it felt far removed from the light, views and daily life of the home. Moving it into the front room completely changed the way the apartment could be enjoyed.
AFTER: Now this is a dream Parisian kitchen!
The goal was to create a kitchen that felt beautiful enough to belong in this elegant open-plan space, while still offering everything needed for real everyday living. Positioned along the far wall of the large space, the kitchen now feels like a natural part of the room rather than something separate or hidden away.
BEFORE: The small kitchen was located on opposite side of apartment from dining area.
Ann’s design brought a soft look to the space, with pale blue cabinetry and Franco-Swedish inspired upper cabinets that reflect the light beautifully. Full-sized appliances, excellent storage and a cleverly placed appliance closet make it practical for cooking at home, while additional storage for glassware on the back wall keeps everything close at hand.
AFTER: Beautiful dining table in the kitchen.
Just beside the kitchen, the dining area completes the sense of balance between the two sides of the room. A handsome bleached oak table can expand for larger gatherings, paired with 19th-century dining chairs refinished in a Schumacher stripe. Overhead, an antique Swedish-inspired chandelier continues the Gustavian theme, while an antique mirror reflects even more light into the space.
AFTER: A view you’ll fall in love with while cooking at home.
Best of all, the kitchen and dining area open directly to the balcony, making this sunny side of the apartment feel even more connected to Paris. With a bistro table just outside, it becomes a natural spot for morning coffee, a light lunch or a quiet pause during the day.
BEFORE: Maximizing this long balcony space was a top priority.
Rue Cler is just around the corner, so it’s easy to imagine stepping out for fresh croissants, fruit or flowers and returning to enjoy them here overlooking the tree-lined boulevard. It’s exactly the kind of simple everyday pleasure that makes this neighborhood so loved.
AFTER: Now the balcony is truly the perfect spot to start your day in Paris.
From this balcony, the view stretches across classic Haussmann architecture toward the dome of Les Invalides in the distance. It brings together so much of what we hoped to create at Les Pierres Dorées: beauty, comfort and the feeling of truly living in Paris.
A Main Bedroom Suite Filled with Light
AFTER: One of the most romantic bedrooms we’ve created in Paris!
The main bedroom already had the scale and light to become something special. Originally, the room was divided into two spaces: the bedroom itself and a large walk-in closet area separated by a wall. But there was one detail that immediately stood out to us – the closet had its own French door opening onto the long balcony.
BEFORE: A wall divided bedroom from large closet.
BEFORE: Huge dressing room off of bedroom.
BEFORE: We knew this space with French doors could be utilized better.
With a balcony door and beautiful natural light, this was far too lovely a space to close away as storage. The solution was to remove the wall and open the two rooms into one generous suite, allowing the full length of the room to breathe while bringing in even more light from the balcony side.
AFTER: Now that’s a view to wake up to in Paris!
At the same time, we wanted to preserve the pleasure of having a separate place to dress and get ready. Rather than closing it off with a wall again, a beautiful curtain now creates a soft division between the bedroom and dressing area. It can be drawn when desired, but the suite still feels open, elegant and full of light.
The dressing area became one of the standout features of the room. Lined with mirrored closets, it offers excellent storage while visually expanding the space and reflecting the light from the French doors. It’s a perfect example of how practical details can also add so much beauty to a room.
AFTER: Pull the curtains to create a separate dressing area.
The bedroom itself was designed to feel calm and inviting. An antique headboard from Florence adds character, while linen curtains with Schumacher tiebacks bring softness to the windows. Above the bed, an original 19th-century French watercolor adds yet another layer of history.
BEFORE: Having access to this long balcony from bedroom 1 is a dream!
And then there is the balcony. French doors open directly from the bedroom onto the same long balcony that first captured Madelyn’s imagination. Stepping outside from the bedroom feels like one of those very Parisian luxuries – a quiet moment above the boulevard, with the city just beyond the windows.
AFTER: Step out from bedroom 1 onto the balcony where there’s a second bistro table.
One of our favorite details happens in the evening, when the dome of Les Invalides is lit up and reflected in the mirrored closets of the dressing area. It’s a small moment, but one that captures the magic of this apartment beautifully.
BEFORE: Looking toward the living room entrance with en suite to the left.
The en suite bathroom also changed dramatically. Originally, it was a simple shower room with only a shower and sink, which didn’t match the comfort or elegance we envisioned for the main suite. As part of the redesign, it was transformed into a full bathroom with an oversized shower, Corston brass fixtures and a more polished feel.
AFTER: Entrance to the en suite on the left of the bedroom.
AFTER: Beautiful tiles in the shower and a rich hue for the paint create a strikingly beautiful space.
AFTER: An en suite with plenty of storage as well as beautiful design was a top priority.
Together, the bedroom, dressing area, balcony and en suite now create a main bedroom suite that feels luxurious – a private space within the apartment designed to highlight the beauty of life in Paris.
Bringing Charm to Bedroom Two
AFTER: Bright decorative touches and new niche in bedroom 2.
The second bedroom at Les Pierres Dorées had a wonderful quietness from the start, with a peaceful courtyard setting and a lovely amount of light. But one detail in the original space needed a little design imagination: an angled inset on one side of the wall that felt somewhat awkward on its own.
BEFORE: Bedroom 2 had some architectural details to work with.
Rather than trying to hide it, we used that existing detail as inspiration. By creating a matching angle on the opposite side, the bed could be framed within a charming niche that feels entirely intentional. It’s the kind of small design move we love, taking something already present in the apartment and turning it into one of the room’s most appealing features.
The niche is wrapped in Thibaut wallpaper that blends beautifully with the original ceiling molding, giving the space a finished look. The queen-size bed fits perfectly within the nook, creating a cozy and elegant focal point while still allowing the room to feel open and comfortable.
AFTER: Such a charming feature now!
The design details add to the room’s unique style, from the custom pillows in Thibaut fabric to Zimmer + Rohde curtains paired with Fischbacher sheers. A mix of artwork brings personality to the space, including Sally Threlkeld abstracts, an Ann Rudd portrait and an 18th-century Italian fronton above the bed.
AFTER: New entrance to the remodeled bathroom 2 from bedroom 2.
This bedroom also became part of a much more practical layout change. An opening was created to connect it with the redesigned bathroom, forming one side of the new Jack-and-Jill arrangement shared with bedroom 3. We’ll take a closer look at that transformation shortly, but you can already see how it adds so much more convenience to this charming bedroom.
From Former Kitchen to Stylish Third Bedroom
AFTER: Transforming the kitchen into this beautiful space.
One of the biggest benefits of moving the kitchen into the front living space was what it made possible on the other side of the apartment. The original kitchen, located near the entrance, had a large window and good size, but it wasn’t being used in the best way for the overall layout. By relocating the kitchen, this space could become something much more valuable: a true third bedroom. It was a change that added flexibility and comfort to the apartment, while also making the floor plan feel far more in tune with modern living.
AFTER: A glimpse of the beautiful entrance from bedroom 3.
Ann had some fun with the design in this room, choosing a bold oversized sisal Schumacher wallpaper that gives the space instant personality. It brings texture and depth to the walls, creating a bedroom that feels stylish and distinct while still fitting beautifully with the rest of the apartment. Plus, a small desk adds another layer of function, doubling beautifully as a dressing table with an oversized mirror above it. It’s a lovely example of how this renovation transformed every corner of the apartment, turning a former kitchen into a charming bedroom that is as useful as it is attractive.
Bathrooms Designed for Everyday Comfort
BEFORE: The apartment’s central bathroom had a bathtub and toilet in a separate room.
The original bathroom layout was one of the areas that most needed attention. Located between the kitchen and bedroom 2, the main family bathroom included a bathtub and sink, with a separate toilet room beside it. As we often find in Paris renovations, that toilet room had no sink, which immediately went on the list of things to improve.
AFTER: The new Jack-and-Jill bathroom
Once the kitchen was moved to the front of the apartment, this entire part of the floor plan could be redesigned in a much more practical way. The former kitchen became bedroom 3, while the bathroom was reworked to serve both bedroom 3 and the new third bedroom.
The result is a smart Jack-and-Jill bathroom that connects the two bedrooms while still allowing privacy for each room. It’s a layout that makes daily life so much easier, especially in a three-bedroom apartment where comfort and function matter just as much as style.
AFTER: Cheerful and well-designed bathroom 2.
The bathroom is beautifully finished, with a large shower, towel warmer and well-lit vanity. A small pale gray-green and cream tile floor adds a touch of whimsy, bringing just the right amount of personality to this highly functional space.
AFTER: It’s fundamental to include modern comforts like a separate washer and dryer.
This transformation also allowed us to put the former separate toilet room to much better use. It became the perfect spot for a separate washer and dryer, neatly integrated into the layout and adding one of those practical comforts that makes a longer stay in Paris feel easy.
BEFORE: Separate toilet in the apartment central hallway.
In addition to the Jack-and-Jill bathroom and the main en suite, Les Pierres Dorées also now has a separate powder room located near the entry. Relocating it here made it much more accessible for guests and for everyday living.
AFTER: Every detail has been carefully selected.
Designed with subway tile and a grisaille toile wallpaper from Kravet, the powder room has a charming jewel-box feel. It’s a small space, but one full of character, proving once again how even the most practical parts of a renovation can become something beautiful.
A Striking Entry That Sets the Tone
AFTER: A beautiful welcome home.
The entry at Les Pierres Dorées was designed to make a strong first impression from the moment you step inside. Black-and-white tile flooring echoes the stone in the building’s elegant lobby, creating a sense of continuity between the historic Haussmannian setting and the apartment itself.
BEFORE: Original entryway felt like it really needed something special.
BEFORE: The entrance went from bland to a design that anchors the home.
The walls are finished in high-gloss Farrow & Ball De Nîmes, a deep blue tone that gives the space a warm, enveloping glow. Mirrored storage doors expand the entry visually while keeping practical essentials beautifully hidden away.
AFTER: View looking into bedrooms 2 and 3.
Antique wall sconces add the perfect finishing touch, bringing both light and character to the space. Like so many details throughout Les Pierres Dorées, the entry combines beauty and function in a way that immediately makes the apartment feel special.
At Home at Les Pierres Dorées
NOW: Plan your perfect stay at Les Pierres Dorées!
Now beautifully complete, Les Pierres Dorées is available for monthly stays in Paris – a rare chance to enjoy one of our newest renovations created in collaboration with Ann Huff of Huff Harrington. With its elegant design, spacious layout, fully integrated air conditioning, excellent storage and unforgettable view of Les Invalides, this apartment was made for settling in and living beautifully in the 7th arrondissement.
Take a closer look at Les Pierres Dorées and start planning your Paris stay. We would love to welcome you home to this very special apartment!
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