In the Imperial Quarter in Metz, France a 614 square foot apartment is transformed into a stunning Art Nouveau masterpiece. This apartment is located in a neighborhood that was known for its German-style urban planning of the early 1900s. It is a perfect mix of historical charm and contemporary design.
The project, led Nathalie Gilbert from Nuee Architecture aimed to create an adaptable space suitable for filming, private events and weekend getaways. The key was to maximize natural light while maintaining the apartment’s integrity.
Gilbert says, “The apartment is filled to the brim with light. It has large windows and high ceilings which make it feel like the unit floats above trees.” The team restored the original windows and added an Art Nouveau-inspired door between the bedroom and kitchen to create a seamless connection with the past.
Gilbert created a raised platform that could be used as a dining space to enhance the bow window. This “small stage”, which is the largest window in the apartment, draws attention to it and gives the impression of a larger room. The arch in the kitchen, which is open to the living area, echoes the curves on the windows and building facade.
The result is an intimate space where history and modernity live in harmony. It’s a great example of how preservation and innovation can coexist.
