Delphine and her family lived in a traditional town house, so relocating to a contemporary villa was a different and somewhat disconcerting experience for them. “I couldn’t see myself in anything but an old home, though my husband could imagine himself in a more modern one,” she recalls. “When we first walked in, we had our doubts because the place seemed really stuck in the 1970s. Two days later, however, we arranged for a second viewing with an architect – and he assured us that the place had potential. We signed immediately after that.”

The architect in question was David Hybre. The couple placed their complete trust in him and he was given carte blanche to refurbish the house. “We’re very fond of his work, so we trusted him with the project,” says Delphine. “In fact, we didn’t make any changes to the proposal he submitted to us.” The goal of the project was to modernise and extend the existing ’70s property while preserving the original spirit of the home.

The modern chimney mantle in the living area was custom-made and covered with grey stoneware tiles; the sofa is from Minotti while the striking blue bench is from Living Divani.

The panels can be rotated to create a larger living space; a Flos 2097 chandelier by Gino Sarfatti hangs above the stairs. Like a bridge in the air, the landing leading to the bedroom stretches above the living area.

The dining room features modern artwork and Fornasetti dinnerware. A view looking out to the sun-drenched terrace.

The marble-topped modular kitchen is a place of gathering.

The master bedroom, located in the cube extension, makes you feel like you’re sequestered away in the middle of nature. The washbasin, cabinet and tiles are from Porcelanosa.

By: Amandine Berthon

Photography: Julien Fernandez | AmandineJules.com
Styling: Amandine Berthon