Bercy by Micaela Granja
In the heart of the 12th arrondissement of Paris, France, designer Micaela Granja has reimagined a 58 m² apartment duplex in 2023. Inspired by South American architecture, the uniquely shaped space feels fluid and soft through an appealing contrast of polished concrete and warm wood, successfully evoking a vacation-like ambiance amid thoughtful details.
Duplex Apartment Inspired By Travel
Nestled in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, France, Micaela Granja has reimagined a 58 m² (624 ft²) apartment as a duplex. The project took cues from South American architecture and the owner’s travels, designing a home that feels uniquely fluid and soft.
Uniquely Shaped Apartment Recovers Sense Of Softness
Located in a 1930s building, the Bercy apartment had not undergone any renovations for 30 years, causing the space to feel the weight of time. Thanks to carefully chosen materials and curves that redefine the space, the apartment has regained a sense of softness and fluidity.
“I wanted to design a place that gives the client the feeling of being on a journey—where, even in the depths of winter, a summer-like atmosphere lingers in the air,” Granja explained.
The contrasting choice of varnished wood and polished concrete resulted in a subtle balance of warmth and freshness, evoking a vacation-like ambiance. White shelves display travel souvenirs and unique finds, giving them a distinct place and purpose in the space.
The dynamic transitions in the living area flow seamlessly: the dining room sideboard naturally extends into the kitchen cabinetry.
Continuous Curve Unifies Two Levels
A continuous curve unifies the two levels—starting from the kitchen, it forms the living room bench before extending into a custom spiral staircase leading to the sleeping area.
Common areas are defined by the use of polished concrete, while the bedroom stands apart with its warm wooden flooring. A large wooden arch, housing a sliding door, acts as a threshold between these two worlds.
Bedroom Suite Incorporates An Office
The bedroom has been designed as a suite, incorporating its own bathroom as well as a dressing/workspace.
Fluted glass doors for both the office and bathroom allow light to filter through, creating a subtle connection between the spaces.
Area rugs around the bed and a bespoke desk in the office add texture to the warm wooden flooring.
Scattered throughout the apartment are a variety of arch and spherical shapes, characterised by a bespoke console table and coffee table.
Elsewhere in Paris, Foreground designed a two-storey, 580 m² (6,200 ft²) loft apartment, also accessorising it with numerous curved features.
Photography by Juan Jerez
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