journal
Photography: Damien De Medeiros
07 / 04 / 2026
In Paris’s 16th arrondissement, a cosy retreat bathed in natural light and surrounded by greenery has been revitalised. Emmanuelle Simon’s design balances heritage and modernity.
Transitioning from the entrance to the main living areas, the space at the heart of the private mansion—once the property’s stables—has been completely redesigned in collaboration with the owner, a young collector. The design draws inspiration from his simple yet sophisticated lifestyle.
At the entrance, a grand handcrafted staircase serves as the home’s backbone. This sculptural feature unfolds in sweeping curves, like a delicate white ribbon winding across four levels, guiding light throughout.
On the ground floor, the main entrance opens into a spacious, welcoming room, decorated with minimalist yet striking pieces—including two sofas designed by Emmanuelle. To keep the rooms open and airy, the spaces are separated by a series of rectangular stone arches. These architectural frames lend rhythm and extend the spatial perspective.
Moving upstairs, the master suite is designed as a ‘suspended nest,’ rising to a double-height ceiling beneath the original timber structure. Sunlight streams through a glazed arch that opens onto a secluded terrace, evoking a sensation of floating above the treetops. A tapestry by Thomas Gleb graces the wall, enhancing the tranquillity of this restful space.
Descending to the lower floor, the staircase opens into a cinema room draped in fabric, creating a theatrical yet comfortable atmosphere. The room includes a minibar, bespoke sofa, and a Roger Capron ceramic table.
The biggest challenge was letting natural light reach every part of the house. To address this, Emmanuelle Simon varied ceiling heights, creating a sense of greater space.
This project perfectly expresses Simon’s style. The pieces she designed are made in France and showcase her expertise in craftsmanship and artisanal techniques. One of her preferred materials is raku, a Japanese ceramic technique typically reserved for small objects. Here, she incorporates raku on a larger scale: the kitchen features raku tiles as a wall covering, resembling broken piano keys that complement each other perfectly.
Throughout the redesign, Emmanuelle Simon collaborated with the client to select artworks. Sculptures, jars, and other objects punctuate the interiors, infusing them with the vibrant spirit of a ‘collector’s home.’ This thoughtful curation reflects her appreciation for materiality, soft textures, and a muted palette.
At the entrance, a grand handcrafted staircase serves as the home’s backbone. This sculptural feature unfolds in sweeping curves, like a delicate white ribbon winding across four levels, guiding light throughout.
On the ground floor, the main entrance opens into a spacious, welcoming room, decorated with minimalist yet striking pieces—including two sofas designed by Emmanuelle. To keep the rooms open and airy, the spaces are separated by a series of rectangular stone arches. These architectural frames lend rhythm and extend the spatial perspective.
Moving upstairs, the master suite is designed as a ‘suspended nest,’ rising to a double-height ceiling beneath the original timber structure. Sunlight streams through a glazed arch that opens onto a secluded terrace, evoking a sensation of floating above the treetops. A tapestry by Thomas Gleb graces the wall, enhancing the tranquillity of this restful space.
Descending to the lower floor, the staircase opens into a cinema room draped in fabric, creating a theatrical yet comfortable atmosphere. The room includes a minibar, bespoke sofa, and a Roger Capron ceramic table.
The biggest challenge was letting natural light reach every part of the house. To address this, Emmanuelle Simon varied ceiling heights, creating a sense of greater space.
This project perfectly expresses Simon’s style. The pieces she designed are made in France and showcase her expertise in craftsmanship and artisanal techniques. One of her preferred materials is raku, a Japanese ceramic technique typically reserved for small objects. Here, she incorporates raku on a larger scale: the kitchen features raku tiles as a wall covering, resembling broken piano keys that complement each other perfectly.
Throughout the redesign, Emmanuelle Simon collaborated with the client to select artworks. Sculptures, jars, and other objects punctuate the interiors, infusing them with the vibrant spirit of a ‘collector’s home.’ This thoughtful curation reflects her appreciation for materiality, soft textures, and a muted palette.
For more information visit Emmanuelle Simon website.


