Her idea of blurring the barriers between art and architecture, enabling them to seamlessly co-exist, is well illustrated in this project.
Talma house, situated in the 9th arrondissement of the French capital, has several heritages that could not simply be erased. Which is why, before anything else, Émilie sought to defend the site’s theatrical heritage and incorporate it into the design. Dating back to 1870, the property initially belonged to the French playwright and actor of the time, François-Joseph Talma. This cultural asset clearly had to be represented within the home, as did the intellectual and artistic leanings of Paris that circulated here in the 19th century. Writers, musicians, painters and so many other artists set up large Greek-inspired houses in the area, leading it to be dubbed the New Athens district.
According to the designer, the home’s new owners wanted to transform this large residence, with its 180 square metres of interior space and 350 square metres of garden, into a country-style environment in the middle of the city. The result is that an antique and erudite spirit that co-exists with a classic yet unassuming atmosphere, allowing creative souls to relax, inspire, flourish and create. The great challenge involved in this reconstruction was the transformation of the original environment. The cold and dry interior became warmer and more contemporary, while preserving some traditional elements, especially its classic textures and hues. Neutral tones and beige prevail throughout the home.