A Parisian Townhouse Is Reborn as a Luminous Art Gallery
If you have ever longed to live in an art gallery, this Parisian townhouse renovation just might be your ideal inspiration.
When Amélie du Chalard purchased a 19th-century townhouse in the city's 9th arrondissement, she was confident the home could be an idyllic place to showcase her extensive artwork collection. Yet due to the building's dilapidated state, the space was in dire need of a gut renovation.
After seeking help from Rebecca Benichou of Paris–based Batiik Studio, the townhouse has completely been reimagined into a luminous gallery, now known as Amelie.
Benichou opened the space up by removing a wall and integrating the kitchen with the dining room. She then inserted a wooden counter that can now serve as a buffet when the gallery hosts dinners and events.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
In order to create a gallery which would easily flow and allow visitors to imagine how the works of art could look in their own homes, Amélie wanted the space to feel like an actual house.
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Peg and Awl Reclaimed Wood Kitchen or Bath Cubby
A block of history. Keep your precious herbs, spices, or bath necessities close in this petite reclaimed walnut (salvaged from 1800s Philadelphia buildings!) cubby. With hardware for hanging, it really can go anywhere: up on the wall by your stove, inside the pantry, in that awkward space above your toilet, or right on the counter. Sized to fit three mason jars on each shelf, it’s perfect for stocking with your most frequently used essentials, but why stop there? Whatever you need nearby the most—whether that’s sugars and baking soda, teas and coffee supplies, or sprigs of flowers and utensils and cotton balls and lotion—this rack will stash it. Just how you stock it is limited only by your imagination. Since each piece is made from reclaimed walnut, the exact finish will vary in appearance.
ShopEmile Henry Ceramic Round Tart Dish
We’ve got the (pie) dish. Whether apple, pumpkin, shepherd’s, or chicken pot, a great pie starts with a sturdy dish—one that’ll cook the filling evenly and gently, without drying it out. This ceramic one, made from high-fired French Burgundy clay, sports dramatic scalloped edges reminiscent of a fluted crust that make it even more of a delight to bring to the table (hot from the oven!). It’s freezer-safe, too—perfect for building up a pie to bake off on a rainy day. Made in: France Made of: High-fired glazed ceramic made of French Burgundy clay. Size: 9.5" in diameter x 2" H, holds 1.4 quarts Sourced from: Emile Henry Photography by Rocky Luten.
ShopMedina Mercantile French Market Basket
Tote your farmers market spoils (or a load of laundry, or a couple of beach towels and a good book!) around in this chic, simple market basket made from sturdy and flexible date palm leaf. Two sets of thick leather handles let you carry it in hand, and the flat bottom keeps it standing on its own while you do your thing.
ShopA side view of the kitchen.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
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The formerly dark, crowded apartment was opened up and brightened with the help of crisp white paint, which was used to cover everything including the floors. This, along with a lighter material palette, now provides the perfect backdrop for a phenomenal collection of art.
The kitchen is located a few steps down from the dining room.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
Exposed wooden beams add an element of warmth to the space.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
A custom-made glass door has been integrated to maximize the natural light throughout.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
Floors have been covered by a thick coat of white paint.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
A sitting area to sit and contemplate the artwork adds a museum-like feel.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
A slim, open-tread staircase contributes to the lightness of the gallery.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
A sculptural staircase elegantly brings visitors down to an additional gallery space.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
Even the terrazzo and concrete black-accented bathroom is a stunning showcase for the collection. The shower has been left open since it will not be used.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
A sculptural pedestal sink accented by dark fixtures.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
It is easy to feel at home in this space, but you never forget that it is indeed a gallery.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
Bertoia Diamond Lounge Chairs work perfectly with the rotating collection of art.
Bertrand Fompeyrine
Discover more about the art rooms on the Amelie website or at @ameliemaisondart.
Project Credits:
Architect of record: Batiik Studio, Rebecca Benichou, and Sarah Chayeb
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