Looking to elevate your interior design with effortless elegance and old-world charm? The Parisian apartment style look is a timeless aesthetic that combines sophistication with subtle eclecticism. Think soaring ceilings, ornate moldings, vintage furniture, neutral palettes, and that oh-so-chic balance between classic and contemporary. In this guide, we’ll explore what defines Parisian interiors and how you can recreate the look in your own home — no matter where you live.
✅ What Is Parisian Apartment Style?
Parisian apartment style is a unique interior design aesthetic rooted in the traditional Haussmann-style apartments of Paris. These iconic flats are known for their tall windows, intricate moldings, fireplaces, herringbone wood floors, and an effortless blend of historical charm and modern sensibility.
This design philosophy champions “undone elegance” — nothing feels overly staged. It’s about mixing eras, textures, and tones in a way that feels collected, not curated.
Key Characteristics of a Parisian Apartment:
- Architectural detailing (crown moldings, ceiling medallions, ornate doors)
- High ceilings and large windows
- Parquet or herringbone hardwood flooring
- Vintage or antique furniture with modern pieces
- Elegant but neutral color schemes
- Statement artwork and mirrors
- Minimal yet luxe décor accents
🪄 How to Get the Parisian Apartment Style Look
Want to bring a bit of Paris into your home? Let’s break down how you can achieve the Parisian apartment style look, room by room and element by element.
1. Start with the Architecture (or Fake It)
If you live in an older home: Highlight any existing molding, trim, or wood floors. If you’re lucky enough to have architectural features, make them the star.
If your space is modern: Add faux moldings using MDF or peel-and-stick trim. Install ceiling medallions for light fixtures or DIY paneled walls to mimic Haussmann-era elegance.
Tip:
- Use paint to add depth: white or creamy tones on walls with slightly darker trim creates dimension.
2. Stick to a Timeless Color Palette
The Parisian apartment style look leans on soft, neutral hues — whites, beiges, muted grays, and pastels with subtle black accents.
Try This Palette:
- Walls: Ivory or soft taupe
- Trim: Antique white or muted gold
- Accent colors: Dusty rose, navy, sage green, or matte black
3. Invest in Key Furniture Pieces
Parisian interiors rarely use matchy-matchy furniture sets. Instead, they combine vintage finds with contemporary silhouettes for a curated aesthetic.
Must-Have Pieces:
- Louis-style accent chairs or velvet club chairs
- Antique armoires or console tables
- Sleek modern sofas in neutral upholstery
- Round marble coffee tables or brass-legged side tables
Tip:
Look for one-of-a-kind furniture at flea markets or vintage stores and mix them with minimalist modern pieces.
4. Layer with Luxe, Effortless Textures
Create a balance between polished and relaxed with fabrics like:
- Linen drapes
- Velvet cushions
- Wool throws
- Sheepskin rugs or area rugs with patina
Keep it tactile but subtle — nothing too shiny or overly plush.
5. Make Room for Statement Art
Art in Parisian apartments is bold, intellectual, and placed unexpectedly. Large-scale abstract canvases, black-and-white photography, or classic oil portraits all work.
Design Tip:
- Prop oversized art against a wall instead of hanging it for that effortlessly cool vibe.
- Mix vintage frames with modern content and vice versa.
6. Embrace the Beauty of Imperfection
Unlike ultra-polished design styles, the Parisian apartment style look values personality. An aged wood table with scuff marks? A stack of art books on the floor? Perfect.
Let your space look lived-in and personal. Showcase travel mementos, stacked books, layered rugs, and a few pieces that tell your story.
7. Incorporate Gold and Brass Accents
Brass hardware, gilded frames, vintage candlesticks — gold-toned accents are key. Use them sparingly to add sophistication and a bit of old-world glamour.
8. Use Mirrors to Open Up the Space
Parisian homes often feature ornate oversized mirrors to reflect light and expand rooms.
Ideal placement:
- Over the fireplace mantel
- Above a console table in the hallway
- Leaned casually against the wall
Look for vintage mirrors with gilded, rococo-style frames.
9. Curate Lighting the French Way
Layer lighting for mood and ambiance. A Parisian home will feature:
- Crystal or vintage-style chandeliers
- Brass sconces
- Table lamps with linen shades
- Modern floor lamps with a sculptural twist
Avoid overhead lighting only — mix in dimmable options and ambient glows.
10. Add Subtle Parisian Decor Accents
Finish your space with intentionally chosen accessories:
- Worn leather-bound books
- A bust sculpture or classical statue
- French market baskets
- Ceramic vases with fresh eucalyptus or peonies
- Neutral or faded Persian-style rugs
📍 Parisian Apartment Style Look by Room
Living Room:
- Mix a structured sofa with soft cushions
- Feature one vintage standout like a fireplace or mirror
- Showcase curated art and a mix of textures
Bedroom:
- Neutral linens with layered throws
- Vintage vanity or armoire
- Soft lighting and moody art
Kitchen:
- Open shelving with simple dishware
- Butcher block or marble countertops
- Bistro chairs or a café table set
Bathroom:
- Subway tiles or white porcelain
- Gold or brass fixtures
- Freestanding clawfoot tub (if possible)
🔥 Parisian Apartment Style on a Budget
You don’t need to fly to Paris or hire a designer. Here’s how to get the Parisian apartment style look affordably:
- Thrift vintage mirrors and chairs
- Use peel-and-stick wall molding kits
- DIY antique gold finishes using spray paint
- Shop online marketplaces for used furniture
- Use affordable wall art prints in classic frames
🌟 Why People Love the Parisian Apartment Style Look
- Timeless — never goes out of fashion
- Chic yet comfortable
- Individualistic — encourages personality and uniqueness
- Balanced blend of old and new
- Easy to adapt for small apartments or large homes
🧠 FAQs About Parisian Apartment Style Look
Q1: Can I achieve this style in a small apartment?
Yes! It’s perfect for small spaces. Use mirrors, soft lighting, and neutral colors to make rooms feel open and airy.
Q2: Do I need real vintage furniture?
Not necessarily. You can recreate the look with vintage-inspired modern pieces or secondhand finds.
Q3: What’s the best paint color for Parisian walls?
Classic choices include warm white, cream, or light gray. Pair with soft matte finishes.
Q4: Is Parisian style minimalist or maximalist?
It’s a curated in-between — not overly cluttered, but also not sparse. The key is balance and personal touch.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Embrace the Effortless Elegance
The Parisian apartment style look is more than just décor — it’s a lifestyle rooted in elegance, artistry, and individuality. By blending old-world charm with modern refinement, this timeless aesthetic offers a sophisticated space that feels warm, personal, and lived-in.
Whether you’re redecorating a single room or your entire home, embracing Parisian design can instantly elevate your space with poise and beauty.
