Joseph Dirand continually moves us with his incredibly considered and minimal Parisian style. This Neuilly apartment, set in an original Art Deco building in the 16th Arrondissement of Paris, is no exception. Boasting highly sought-after traditional French decorative elements such as walnut parquetry flooring, wall panelling and ceiling cornices, Dirand has off-set the stunning architectural details with an impeccable selection of furnishings, lighting and artworks.
WORDS Lauren Brown | DESIGN Joseph Dirand
Best described as the meeting of classicism and minimalism, Dirand’s work effortlessly combines graphic lines with grand proportions and a tenacious attention to detail. Projects often feature classic design pieces from the modernist greats by the likes of Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand and Pierre Jeanneret – all three of whom Dirand credits as his earliest creative inspiration.
The living room is an elegant, subdued oasis with a soft colour pallet of greys, khaki, black and gold. The luxurious apartment features not one, but two Nero Marquina marble fireplaces in each living room. Mirrored wall panelling is used extensively to maximise natural light. The furniture selection is kept low to the ground adding a sense of grandeur to the space.
The stunning Calacatta marble island bench-top features mitred edges, giving the appearance of a solid block that has been twisted and swivelled around to create a magnificent sculptural piece. Impeccable joinery with mirrored doors and a polished brass pendant propel the kitchen into a gallery-like space.
A contemporary collage by American artist Sterling Ruby hangs in the dining room, setting off the Multi Light pendant by Danish designer Louis Weisdorf for Gubi. Dining chairs are a Pierre Jeanneret design.
The master ensuite is a work of art in itself with the Calacatta marble lining the room from floor to ceiling, giving the appearance of having been carved from a single block. More recently Dirand has begun to experiment in adding a certain sensuality into his projects, most notably through his use of rich, luxurious materials in the form of marble, bronze and pale velvets. “People generally say that my work may be radical, but it’s also sexy.” We think the Neuilly apartment showcases this vision with aplomb.
