A Belgian Architect in Paris

KNOWN FOR…

his keen sense of understated elegance, Belgian architect Nicholas Schuybroek began his career in Canada before returning to Antwerp to work alongside renowned designer Vincent Van Duysen. A few years later, in 2011 Schuybroek struck out on his own – establishing his eponymous firm and distinct brand of minimal yet soulfully warm design. In the years since, the architect/designer has turned out an array of projects ranging from houses on the Cote d’Azur, and hotels in Chicago, to offices in Belgium and high design home accessories. His finely tuned sense of balance, space, and material have won Schuybroek international accolades, including a spot on AD France’s top 100 Designers in 2013, 2015, and 2017. If you’ve yet to acquaint yourself with his enviable aesthetic, this Paris apartment just may be the perfect first peek into his beautiful world…

Paris Apartment by Nicolas Schuybroek Architects

LOCATED ALONG…

a bustling street in the 6th arrondissement, the property had been left unrestored for over 40 years making it a prime candidate for a complete overhaul. Schuybroek began with the floor plan – first toggling the kitchen and bathroom, then combining three tiny rooms into a single, spacious living / dining room.

AGAINST A…

backdrop of white, Schuybroek accented simple built-in shelving with an impactful, yet slim, black trim. As for furnishings and accessories, he brought in an array of iconic pieces, including Eero Saarinen’s 1957 Tulip dining table, Charlotte Perriand’s 1967 chairs, and Damien Langlois-Meurinne’s 2007 Last Night Chandelier.

SCHUYBROEK…

encased the small kitchen in brushed oak paneling on three sides, creating a fourth wall in glass to allow the sun to flow through. The only other material used in the space was white marble, which serves to accent the counter and backsplash, sheath the kitchen island and tile the floor. While the marble floor does provide a material contrast to the main living area, its chevron pattern is an exact match.

THE ARCHITECT…

carried this strictly limited material palette into the more private areas of the home. with the same oak paneling warming the bedroom and remnant Carrara offcuts tiling the bath. It’s this almost religious attention to architectural detail combined with his delightful yet edited eye for decor that most underscores Schuybroek’s talent – marking him a master of his craft and definitely one to watch. Bravo Nicolas!