An opulent pied-a-terre sells fast

This truly special pied-a-terre apartment in Paris is as charming and secretive as the ancient streets that surround it. The area of Saint Germain between the river Seine and the Luxembourg Palace is some of the most sought after real estate in the world, and this luxurious one bedroom, one bath apartment fits perfectly into that setting.  The 44m2, 4th floor apartment was completely renovated in 2014 to the highest standard using materials of the finest caliber, and furnished with original Napoleon-era antiques. Despite it’s petite size,  this Royal pied-a-terre not only offered finishes fit for an Emperor….but also secret book cases and hidden passageways.

You know as soon as you step inside that something special is going on in this apartment.  The furnishings and décor in the living area are historically inspired, which is evident from the unique glass chandelier to the collection of paintings with ornate frames. Purchased and renovated by someone in the film industry, the apartment feels like a place that Napoleon and Josephine might have left only a moment ago.  Indeed, that was the guiding design vision.

No expense was spared in creating this haven of elegance and style.  Aged stone floors were installed, slab marble was used in the bathroom and a miniature library was created in Tiffany blue. The library-themed dining space is perhaps one of the most intriguing parts of the apartment.   Both sides of the bookshelf-lined room open to reveal hidden spaces:  on the left is a laundry room and on the right is a concealed passage to the bathroom.

The apartment itself is a marvel of skillful set design.  Divided into distinct spaces, each with their own mood, the apartment feels much larger than its 45m2. The bright and elegant living area features a massive, original working stone fireplace with an over-sized mirror that makes the space feel larger and reflects the precious antiques on display.

The heart of the apartment is the light-filled living room with its large windows, elegant furnishing and gilded mirror atop a gorgeous marble fireplace mantle. Nearby is an intimate dining nook surrounded by built-in bookshelves and wall mounted sconces. It’s the perfect spot for romantic dinners at home.

Tucked around the corner from the living area is a full, modern kitchen with oven, cooktop, refrigerator and ample storage.  There is even room for a separate eating space, opening up the possibility that the library area could be converted to a guest sleeping area if desired.  The kitchen is beautifully remodeled with top of the line appliances. Light streams through the windows and onto the bistro table in the kitchen making it a lovely places to start your day with fresh croissants from the local bakery.

On the opposite side of the living room a set of double doors leads to the elegant bedroom with king size bed complete with luxurious linens. The romantic theme continues in the posh bedroom with a lovely satin comforter, deeply comfortable linens found under a pile of soft pillows and plenty of natural light from an adjacent window. An en-suite shower room is beautifully tiled in marble and features a walk-in shower and double sinks. The toilet is located in a separate powder room nearby. Every detail in this remarkable apartment has been carefully curated.

The apartment was furnished right down to the last cup and plate with specially chosen objets d’art corresponding to the Napoleonic theme and era. Minton porcelain and antique books adorn the shelves. Artisans gathered through the owner’s extensive couture designer contacts contributed to this labor of love, creating a one-of-a-kind, turn-key masterpiece.

The setting for this gem of an apartment is equally special.  Step outside and you’re right in the historic heart of Saint-Germain in the stylish 6th arrondissement. Located on rue Mazarine, just steps from the Academy of Beaux Arts and the Seine river in one direction and from rue de Buci in the other direction, this pied-a-terre lies in the heart of Saint Germain.  Meander down quaint streets to reach the Seine and cross over Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, to the Ile de la Cité to visit Notre Dame Cathedral or find the Louvre just across the river. Within walking distance of many top Paris sights and surrounded by the fabulous shopping and dining choices in Saint-Germain. With a setting as sophisticated as its décor, this pied-a-terre offers the best of refined living in the heart of Paris – no wonder it sold for asking price!

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The details:

• Used as a high-end rental apartment for the past year, this apartment is completely furnished and turn-key.
• Though the apartment is located on the 4th floor without elevator, building residents are in discussions now about adding an elevator.
• Fully equipped with pots, pans, utensils, cookware, glasses, dishes, and so on
• Induction stove top with four burners
• Combination microwave and oven
• Under-the-counter refrigerator with small freezer compartment
• Nespresso, French press and toaster
• Radiators in living room and bedroom
• Television in living room
• Double-glazed windows in all rooms
• Music docking station
• Alarm clock
• Washer and separate dryer