Living Chic In Paris

American expat Ashley Maddox successfully executes French etiquette with a contemporary yet classic redesign of her 18th-century apartment

- Karin Grabek

Ashley Maddox cleverly balances classical French architecture with punchy graphics and colours, antiques and mid-century furniture, finished with beautiful bohemian touches in her Parisian home. Visiting the American’s 18th-century apartment, situated next to the Church of Saint-Sulpice and the garden Jardin du Luxembourg, is like getting a masterclass in how to apply colour, texture and materials, mixing and matching to create a distinct yet cohesive style. Without ever forgetting the building’s strong architecture, she has created a very personal, contemporary yet eclectic space.

‘I love homes that are bright, colourful and full of lovely things with personality and soul,’ says Ashley. ‘I wanted our home to be beautiful and inspiring but not too precious for my three young children. My style is chic, comfortable, and colourful, with a natural and considered efficiency to the layout and design.

‘While I love living with colour, you have to be careful in Paris, in a 350-year-old building and under grey skies. Each of the colours and patterns that we used are warm and inviting but quite classic.’

This balanced approach and attention to detail results in the apartment having a special look and feel. It seems as if each room is in respectful conversation with the next, allowing the differences to stand out, but at the same time connecting common themes and repeating patterns.

Gorgeous Moroccan turquoise tiles from Popham Design in the kitchen complement the striking jewel-tone curtains and statement wallpaper in the guest bedroom, while accents of this colour can be seen in artwork in the living room.