In the kitchen, the Hay Rey bar stool, Sísísí pendant lights by Gabriel Ordeig Cole from Santa & Cole, and a central unit in Foresto by Studio Asaï.
Engaged to refurbish a Parisian apartment overlooking the Bois de Boulogne in Neuilly-sur-Seine, Studio Asaï has breathed new life into a young family’s home—honouring its timeless classicism while integrating modern elements for contemporary living.
Returning to Paris following a decade living in London, the clients sought an update to their home that would enhance its classic interiors while accommodating their love of music and parties. Located on the sixth floor and overlooking what is one of the city’s largest public parks, the apartment takes in views of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and the canopy of the Louis Vuitton Foundation.
“We loved the apartment’s original design, but our additions are radically contemporary, such as the use of Foresso, a wood-terrazzo made with felled British trees,” Studio Asaï founder Antoine Simonin reflects. “The place remains inherently Parisian, but we introduced a colour palette inspired by England, layering purple, green, blue, along with tartan wallpaper and fabric to create a visual thread between rooms,” he adds.
The dining area includes artwork by Jean Philippe Delhomme from Galerie Perrotin and an Allied Maker Aria pendant light. A Danish table and bar by Poul Nørreklit, both from Galerie Morentz, complement Knoll Cesca chairs designed by Marcel Breuer. Ceramic vases by Claude Dumas, wall sconces by Ettore Sottsass, and wallpaper from Lemon Papier complete the space.
With a vision to preserve the defining elements of the apartment, Studio Asaï carefully restored the original wood panelling, Versailles parquet flooring, and moulded doors. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding urban and natural landscape, the design team incorporated references that reflect the clients’ love of entertaining. “We looked to places like Annabel’s in London and the piano bars of the Great Gatsby era,” Simonin shares.
A standout feature of the apartment is the primary bedroom, enveloped in rich layers of green—from the bed linen and wallpaper to the tartan curtains, window frames, and the lush treetops beyond. “The ceiling is painted green, and the wallpaper extends the connection to the tree canopy in the distance,” Simonin explains. “The bed is designed as a step—or a throne—at the centre of the space; it’s very Shakespearean,” he adds.
With a design philosophy that finds beauty in the balance of form, function, and nature, Studio Asaï’s work is an evocative blend of fantasy and reality—infused with a sense of humility and love. A defining project for the studio, this home sits proudly within Simonin’s portfolio of designs that elevate everyday living. It stands as a testament to a dedication to storytelling through design and an ability to strike the perfect balance between exuberance and restraint.
“Our clients are delighted to live in the home, and that’s the best reward for us,” Simonin shares. “After 20 years of practice, we’ve come to realise that a new home can often be life-changing. Taking the time to listen and build a project together through profound introspection makes the process incredibly special,” he reflects.
The living room features an eclectic mix of pieces, including a Plexiglass stool by Philippe Cheverny from Galerie Meubles et Lumières, a Guéridon Royalton by Philippe Starck from Nes Gallery, and an African mask collection from Galerie Flack. A Martin Szekely object for Christofle adds to the table, while an Oracolo lampadaire by Gae Aulenti and NYX appliques from Garnier & Linker provide lighting. The space is completed with an Arcade canapé from Resident and a Chelmsford table basse from Lemon Furniture.
The entryway features a mirror from Maison Verrsen, a Flos Diabolo pendant light designed by Achille Castiglioni, an armchair by Ettore Sottsass from Galerie Yves Gastou, a floor lamp by Michel Boyer from Galerie Meubles et Lumières, and wallpaper from Lemon Papier.
The master bedroom features a custom-made throne bed in wood by Studio Asaï, Eclipse wall sconces by Philippe Malouin from Roll & Hill, and a Flower chair by Pierre Paulin from Nes Gallery.
