This 240-square-metre duplex penthouse, born from the strategic merging of two separate units, was envisioned by investor Gilles Mattelin to evoke the authentic feel of a townhouse within an urban setting. The project is defined by its masterful transition between old and new: the living room occupies a historic rotunda within the listed structure, while the kitchen wing is a bespoke new build. This duality forms the very soul of the residence, where spatial fluidity is anchored by a central staircase in white polished plaster, breaking away from the conventional apartment layout.

The sensory journey begins at the entrance, where soft plaster walls and a monumental staircase clad in aubergine carpet create an immediate sense of warmth and intimacy. The interior design is an ode to tactile sophistication, featuring a curated selection of pieces including a cascading Bocci chandelier and a Baxter Dharma bench—elements that invite a moment of reflection upon arrival. In the living area, the atmosphere is enriched by a layering of textures: a plush Jov rug, the sculptural comfort of an Edra sofa, and bespoke walnut veneer cabinetry that evokes the refined aesthetic of the 1970s. Art acts as the guiding thread throughout the home, with works by Willem Boel and Stefaan De Croock leading the eye through the architectural volumes.

On the upper floor, the residence reveals its softer, more private side, maintaining a cohesive palette of earthy tones and noble materials. A continuous run of upholstered wardrobe doors not only organises the dressing area but also softens the building’s lines, cleverly concealing the entrance to the master suite. In this sanctuary of rest, velvet and walnut take centre stage once more, complemented by an artwork by Anastasia Bay. The experience culminates in a sculptural bathroom where travertine assumes fluid forms—from the monumental vanity to the bathtub that follows the curve of the wall—incorporating thoughtful wellness details, such as a built-in bench perfect for unwinding after a session in the private hammam.

Maison Mattelin is more than a renovation; it is an exploratory process that has resulted in a richly layered home, where every detail has been meticulously considered to offer a deeply personal and timeless living experience.