Every home has an element that it revolves around, one that gives it character and identity. This 18th century apartment located in the Marais district of Paris, for example, was designed around the unfinished wooden beams. They became the focal point of the entire apartment, offering it lots of charm and character.

The apartment was recently remodeled by architect Margaux Beja whose interest in crude and natural materials such as stone, wood and glass allowed her come up with the perfect interior design strategy for this contemporary attic apartment.

Given the reduced dimensions of the apartment as well as the fact that it occupies the attic space of the building, the design had to emphasize its spaciousness and to allow it to feel bright and airy. At the same time, the desire was to create a warm and comfortable ambiance throughout.

A combination of rustic and modern defines all the spaces. An open kitchen shares space with the living and dining areas while the bedroom is separated from this zone by glass partitions. This unusual strategy definitely diminishes the level of privacy in the case of the sleeping area but, at the same time, allows more natural light to enter the small living room and makes it feel more spacious given the lack of solid wall partitions.

Another interesting feature customized by the designer for this particular apartment is the Technical Wall which conceals the bathroom and the laundry area. This feature is made of solid walnut panels and offers the apartment a subtle industrial look together with other features such as the kitchen lighting or counter.

The wood feature wall also adds warmth to the apartment, making it feel very inviting and comfortable. The black kitchen island adds an elegant touch to this particular area while maintaining the color palette simple and neutral.

A similar combination of black and natural wood was used when designing the dressing area. Everything here is organized but there’s nothing cold or austere about this space.

Similarly, the small workspace set in front of a small window is one of the most charming features in this apartment.

The bedroom is small and cozy. Its décor is mostly white but the presence of a few accent features such as the unfinished ceiling beams or the nightstand allow it to feel warm and welcoming. Patterned accent pillow further enhance the decor’s charm.

Although small, the bathroom has a very pleasant design. Elements such as the wall-mounted wooden ladder towel rack or the niche shelves are there to add character to the space and to ensure cohesiveness throughout the apartment.

The open shower makes the space feel larger while a set of framed mirrors emphasize the same idea. Simplicity is defining for the overall design although this doesn’t eliminate the impact of the wall décor.