In the heart of the Marais district, overlooking the historic Place des Vosges, Marianne Tiegen unveils a residential project that is a restoration of an apartment within a 17th-century Heritage Landmark Building originally commissioned by King Henry IV. Restoring this 300 m2, grand space was closely monitored by the “Historical Heritage Architects” department to ensure all historic details were sympathetically protected and restored. All original detailing and volumes remained.
Marianne Tiegen Interiors is a global interior design firm with offices in Switzerland, France, and California. Founded by Marianne Tiegen over twenty years ago, the firm takes on projects of all sizes, from residential to hospitality, and is known for creating soulful spaces that enrich people's lives.
«We wanted to realize a modern interpretation of a classic elegance with some pieces evoking the past without direct references – Tiegen explains. – A contrast in sophistication and simplicity was brought about by selecting objects and pieces from 17th Century French antiques with their natural patinas, to 20th Century American modern designers’ pieces, thereby juxtaposing the poetry of French history with the glamour of the 70s. A Paul Evans sideboard meets a Bagués crystal wall light, an embroidered lace curtain meets Bauhaus Marcel Breuer dining chairs. Industrial ston and iron shelves from the Amsterdam national archives meet a knoll desk and a napoleon III leather sofa in the same room».
In the kitchen Tiegen combines historic grandeur with utilitarian elegance
In the kitchen and dining area, original plaster ceiling medallions and intricate cornices set a formal tone, while open walnut shelving and industrial sconces introduce a more grounded, functional sensibility. A sculptural pedestal dining table is surrounded by vintage bistro chairs, evoking the casual charm of a Parisian café. With natural textures, layered utility, and light-hearted personal touches, the space feels both refined and lived-in.
Marianne Tiegen's restoration of this 17th-century apartment on Place des Vosges is a masterclass in restrained elegance and thoughtful contrast. Seamlessly blending historic architecture with curated modernity, each room tells a layered story where French antiques meet American design, where industrial materials soften against romantic textures, and where icons of the past live comfortably among timeless forms.
Photography: J. WILSON
