Explore the beautiful 6th arrondissement in Paris!

When it comes to finding the perfect neighborhood to stay in Paris, the 6th arrondissement is at the top of our list. From its historical charm and cultural landmarks to its vibrant streets lined with cafés, boutiques and galleries, this district is the epitome of Parisian life. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a corner café, shopping along Rue du Bac or wandering the picturesque streets, the 6th exudes the quintessential allure of Paris. And with our Paris Perfect vacation rentals located in this magical area, you’ll have everything at your fingertips. Here’s why we love the 6th, and why we think you will, too!

Grab a table at one of Paris’s historic literary cafes.

Cafés, Restaurants & Food Markets

The 6th arrondissement is famous for its iconic cafés and restaurants, where you can enjoy everything from a simple coffee and croissant to start your day all the way to a gourmet dinner.

• Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots: These two legendary cafés are a must-visit, especially for history and art and literature lovers. Sip your coffee where the likes of Picasso, Hemingway and Sartre once gathered, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
• Le Comptoir du Relais: Located at the charming Place de l’Odéon, this bistro offers a delightful menu of classic French dishes with a modern twist. It’s one of our favorite spots for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
• Poilâne Bakery: This iconic bakery on Rue du Cherche-Midi is the place to go for artisanal bread. Don’t leave without trying their famous sourdough loaf or their buttery apple tarts.
• Marché Saint-Germain: For a taste of local life, visit the market at Marché Saint-Germain. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, cheeses and pastries—perfect for creating your own Parisian picnic in the nearby Luxembourg Gardens.

Explore historic streets like Rue du Dragon.

Shopping

The 6th arrondissement is also a shopper’s paradise, with streets filled with both chic boutiques and high-end designer stores. Here are some of our favorite spots for shopping:

• Rue du Bac: This elegant street is lined with sophisticated shops and boutiques, offering everything from fashionable clothing to home décor. Make sure to stop by Le Bon Marché and the neighboring La Grande Épicerie, Paris’ oldest department store, where you’ll find luxury brands, gourmet food and beautiful displays.
• Rue de Sèvres: A stone’s throw from Rue du Bac, this street is home to top fashion brands like Hermès, as well as smaller independent shops where you can discover unique pieces.
• Rue du Dragon: If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, Rue du Dragon is perfect. Here, you’ll find charming, independent boutiques, and it’s also home to our Maranges vacation rental. Staying at Maranges means you’ll have all the best shopping just steps from your door.
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Stroll through this stylish neighborhood for a mix of art galleries, bookstores and fashion boutiques. Be sure to visit Diptyque for their famous candles or Pierre Hermé for an indulgent box of macarons.
• Rue de Buci: A bustling market street that offers a lively shopping experience, with its charming stalls, cafes and unique boutiques. It’s the lovely spot to shop for ingredients to enjoy cooking at home at your Paris Perfect vacation rental!

The stunning Palais du Luxembourg.

Luxembourg Gardens

A visit to the 6th arrondissement wouldn’t be complete without spending time at the stunning Luxembourg Gardens. This expansive green space offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, and there’s plenty to see and do here:

• Palais du Luxembourg: Admire the impressive architecture of this 17th-century palace, now home to the French Senate. Tours are organized on Mondays and Fridays, provided the Senate is not in session, and are limited to a maximum of 40 people. The palace is also often open for the European Heritage Days during the third weekend of September.
• Medici Fountain: Don’t miss this beautiful, romantic fountain nestled within the gardens, perfect for a peaceful moment or a photo opportunity.
• Relax and People-Watch: The Luxembourg Gardens are a favorite spot for both Parisians and visitors alike. Grab one of those classic Parisian green chairs around the Grand Basin and enjoy watching children sail their miniature boats, or simply take in the atmosphere.
• Playgrounds and Tennis Courts: For families traveling with children, the gardens offer a playground and even tennis courts for a bit of recreation during your visit.
• Art and Statues: Stroll through the gardens and take in the many statues and sculptures scattered throughout, celebrating everything from historical figures to mythological creatures.

People-watch in Place Saint-Sulpice.

Culture and History

The 6th arrondissement is rich in history and culture, making it an ideal place to explore Parisian heritage.

• Musée du Luxembourg: Located within the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, this museum often hosts rotating art exhibitions, with a focus on French and European artists.
• Église Saint-Sulpice: This stunning church, made famous by The Da Vinci Code, is well worth a visit. Its grand interior and beautiful Delacroix murals make it a true gem of the 6th arrondissement.
• Literary History: The 6th was once home to many of Paris’s greatest writers, artists and intellectuals. You can feel their presence while wandering through Saint-Germain-des-Prés, stopping by bookstores like La Hune or browsing at Librairie Couleur du Temps on Rue Dauphine.
• Musée national Eugène-Delacroix: Located in a peaceful corner of the 6th, this museum is dedicated to the works of the great Romantic painter Eugène Delacroix. It’s a lovely, intimate space to explore his art and legacy.
• Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés: One of the oldest churches in Paris, this historic gem has been a cultural and religious landmark for centuries. Its Romanesque and Gothic architecture and serene ambiance make it a must-see in the area.

Stay in the heart of the 6th arrondissement at the Forez.

Where to Stay 

Staying in the 6th arrondissement means you’ll be surrounded by everything that makes Paris special. At Paris Perfect, we offer a curated selection of stunning vacation rentals in the area, each providing a unique and comfortable place to call home during your stay.

• Maranges: Located on the historic Rue du Dragon, the Maranges is a stylish one-bedroom apartment perfect for a romantic getaway. Its charming décor and serene atmosphere make it a peaceful retreat, while still being steps from the best shopping streets and landmarks of the 6th.
• Forez: Tucked away in a lovely spot in the 6th, Forez is a cozy and charming one-bedroom apartment, ideal for couples looking for a romantic stay. With its prime location, you’re just minutes away from the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens and all the sights of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
• Banyuls: The Banyuls apartment is a spacious one-bedroom with plush furnishings. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the lively streets of the 6th.
• La Place Dauphine Apartments: Just a short walk from the 6th, our Place Dauphine apartments on Île de la Cité provide an equally charming stay in one of Paris’s most secret squares. From here, you can easily stroll to the 6th for shopping, dining and sightseeing, while enjoying the quiet charm of Place Dauphine.

Strolling along the Seine is an unmissable experience.

Staying in the 6th arrondissement means immersing yourself in the best of Parisian life. From world-class shopping and dining to cultural landmarks and charming streets, it’s a neighborhood that offers everything you could want for a perfect Parisian getaway. Book your stay with Paris Perfect and you’ll be surrounded by the history, beauty and vibrancy that makes Paris so magical!

The post Paris Perfect’s Guide to the Best of the 6th Arrondissement appeared first on Paris Perfect.

Meet Whitney Cubbison, author of Will There Be Wine? (Credit: Kelly Anderson Photography)

Paris has an undeniable allure that captivates the hearts and imaginations of people around the world. Its romantic ambiance, iconic landmarks and rich history make it a dream destination for many. While not everyone can physically be in Paris at all times, there’s a wonderful way to keep the spirit of the city alive – through books. Immerse yourself in the magic of Paris—its streets and its stories—by delving into the pages of a well-crafted novel.

Speaking of novels that offer an authentic taste of the Parisian experience, we had the privilege to sit down with Whitney Cubbison, the author of Will There Be Wine?, a book that provides a unique insight into the life of an expat in Paris. Join us as we dive into the inspiration behind Whitney’s novel and her personal connection with this enchanting city!

Paris Perfect: Living in Paris is a dream for so many people. Could you share where you’re originally from and the journey that led you to make Paris your home?

Whitney: I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. Yes … I am Whitney Houston. (French people think that is hilarious.) My journey to Paris mirrors very closely the journey of the main character, Austen, in my book Will There Be Wine? I started taking French in middle school because living in Texas, everyone else took Spanish and I wanted to be a rebel. Then in my sophomore year of high school, I had the opportunity to do a short exchange with a high school in Tours, where I stayed with the most wonderful family who made me want to continue my studies, simply to stay in good touch with them. When it was time to declare a major at university, I decided to study French because I was still of the “practicality be damned” school of thought and decided studying something you loved was a better plan. I spent my junior year of college studying abroad in Lyon, and I decided then that one day I’d come back to live and work in Paris.

I graduated from UCLA in 1998 with my French degree, during the tech boom, and decided to move to San Francisco with my friends. I got a job coding SAP apps for PricewaterhouseCoopers, a consulting company desperate for developers and wise enough to know that if you can learn one language (French), you can learn another (code). I quickly decided I liked technology but didn’t like coding, so I transitioned into tech PR/communications and eventually was hired by Microsoft in Seattle. Upon learning that Microsoft’s international HQ was in Paris, I set out to get a transfer here, which happened in 2009 when I was hired to be the communications director/speechwriter for the head of Microsoft’s international sales team. And anecdotally, in the first month after arriving, I went back to Tours and had dinner with that wonderful family and told them that they’d changed the course of my life. We’re still in touch to this day.

What inspired you to weave your personal experiences in Paris into your novel?

Honestly, I just had so many truly horrible dates here that when I’d tell my ridiculous stories to friends, they repeatedly told me that I had to write a book. One day, I decided to believe them, so here we are! Sometimes, the truth is stranger than fiction, which in my case turned out to be a great starting point for a novel. There’s definitely fiction in there too, but I like to say that the book is “deeply inspired by real events.”

 

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A post shared by Whitney Cubbison | Author (@whitneycubbisonwrites)

What aspects of the city’s charm have resonated with you the most? Could you highlight some of the aspects about living in Paris that you hold particularly dear? 

As an American, I’m fascinated by the history of Paris. The US is so young, comparatively, that I am awed by how much life this city has seen over the ages. I read a book about ten years ago called Paris: The Novel by Edward Rutherfurd which had a quote that I love so much: “Yet old Paris was still there, around almost every corner, with her memories of centuries past, and of lives relived. Memories as haunting as an old, half-forgotten tune that, when played again—in another age, in another key, whether on harp or hurdy-gurdy—is still the same. This was her enduring grace.” I think those few sentences do such a lovely job of summing up the feeling I have walking around Paris and being steeped in its history.

There are so many more things that I love about living here, but here’s a short list.

• It’s the most beautiful city on Earth. I’ve visited 72 countries, so I feel like I can say that with authority. Walking around Paris and soaking up its beauty simply never gets old.
• The wine and the cheese.
• Working here, one has permission to (and in fact one is expected to) turn off. It’s late August as I write this, and Paris is still empty. Everyone has spent the last month on the beach, disconnected. I saw this hilarious (for all the wrong reasons) thing on social media recently comparing a European out of office message to an American one. One said, “I’m out of the office until September. Please resend your message after September 1 and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.” The other said, “I’m having kidney surgery this morning but should be back online in the afternoon. Apologies in advance for any delay in my response.” Obviously, it’s a bit exaggerated, but work-life balance is something people take much more seriously here, which I really appreciate.
• Overall, I find it easier to live a healthy lifestyle here than in the US. For one, I don’t have a car and as a result, simply move my body more. And the quality of the food here in excellent. You inherently eat less junk. I bought an apartment on a street that has a farmers’ market three times a week that’s literally right outside my front door, so it’s stupidly easy to eat fresh, high quality foods.
• And last but not least, I love the expat lifestyle. I have French friends too, but the expats tend to gravitate to one another, and there’s something wonderful about being surrounded by other people who have actively chosen to uproot their lives and move to Paris. Living in LA, everyone works in entertainment. Living in San Francisco, everyone works in tech. In Paris, the expats you meet come from everywhere, from many different walks of life, to do many different things, so I always feel like I am learning about something new from this delightfully diverse community.

Will There Be Wine? What a great book title! Can you tell us a bit about the significance of this title in relation to the story?

It started as a joke with one of my girlfriends here – the one who inspired the character called Daphne. One day we were out drinking wine somewhere, and she said, “If they ever make a movie about our life, it will be called Will There Be Wine?” It was spot on, so with her blessing, it became the title of the book. It’s a rom-com about the dating misadventures of an American expat in Paris, but it’s also about fabulous female friendships, and in my experience, both of those things (dates and time with girlfriends) go really well with wine. Also, she may have been doing some early manifesting of a movie deal for me. A girl can dream, right?!

 

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A post shared by Whitney Cubbison | Author (@whitneycubbisonwrites)

In your book, you mention various wonderful places in Paris, some popular and others lesser known. Do you have any recommendations for our readers when it comes to Paris?

Absolutely! I put together a Google Maps Collection of all the bars and restaurants that Austen and her pals visit throughout Will There Be Wine? In the collection, you’ll also find a small snippet from the book about what scene takes place at each of the spots. The list includes, unsurprisingly, many of my personal favorites, so I hope everyone finds one or two in here that they also love. Find the map here: Austen Keller’s Paris Favorites – Google Maps.

Could you share where readers can get their hands on your book? 

If you’re in Paris, it’s available at the Red Wheelbarrow Bookstore right off Luxembourg Gardens. If you’re not in Paris or simply prefer a Kindle version, you can find it on Amazon: Will There Be Wine?

Reflecting on your time in Paris, in what ways has this experience shifted your perspectives? What is one piece of advice you would give our readers before coming to Paris?

Any time you step out of your comfort zone, you learn things about yourself, and moving abroad definitely puts you in that mode. This is a quote from Austen in Chapter 22 of Will There Be Wine? where she’s speaking to a friend about exactly this topic: “When you’re surrounded by nothing familiar, you have to learn to rely on your instincts. And when those prove correct, your confidence goes up and you just become more sure of your place in the world.”

As for advice, I’d recommend not over-programming your time here. One of the best things to do in Paris is just to wander and see where the city takes you. It’s important to leave a bit of time for the unexpected. Allow yourself to turn down that street that looks so cute and see where it leads you. Pop into the pastry shop and try one of whatever calls your name. Grab a chair at that sidewalk café that’s so charming you just can’t resist it and order a glass of wine. Also in Chapter 22, Austen takes this piece of advice to heart: “Live with no excuses. Travel with no regrets.”

Escape to Paris with Will There Be Wine?

A big merci to Whitney for sharing her Paris inspiration! Through her personal anecdotes and fiction inspired by real events, you can vicariously wander the streets of Paris, feel its history and immerse yourself in its unique charm. As you turn the pages of her book, you’ll find yourself transported to the romantic landscapes and intriguing stories that Paris offers. So, as you dream about your next trip to the City of Light, why not indulge in a Parisian escape through the power of literature? We hope you enjoy reading Will There Be Wine? and let it be a wonderful prelude to your next adventure in Paris.

And if you’re still searching for a vacation rental for your dream getaway, be sure to explore our collection at Paris Perfect. Until then, happy reading and bon voyage!

The post Exploring the City of Light through Words: An Interview with Whitney Cubbison appeared first on Paris Perfect.

When spring blossoms in Paris, the City of Light takes on an even more romantic hue. As Paris bursts into bloom this spring, it’s the perfect time to share the beautiful work of Georgianna Lane, a photographer and author, who inspires us with her extraordinary ability to capture that special magic of Paris in bloom. Whether it’s the cherry trees with their glorious pink flowers around Notre Dame, those famous chestnuts in blossom in Place Dauphine or a pretty flower market, Georgianna’s photographs transport you to the Paris of your dreams. You may even have spotted her gorgeous photos of many of our Paris Perfect vacation rentals. We sat down with Georgianna to ask more about her floral photography, creative inspiration and the beauty of life in Paris.

Georgianna’s beautiful photograph of our Viognier apartment. (Photo: Georgianna Lane)

After your trilogy Paris in Bloom, New York in Bloom and London in Bloom, are there other cities that have tempted you with their beautiful blossoms?

First, thank you so much for inviting me for this floral Q&A!

As for other cities for the series, many are tempting and I’m regularly receiving suggestions from readers of cities that they think would be good candidates. It’s really a matter of commitment as each of the cities in the trilogy required me relocating to them for months at a time. Tokyo has been on the list as well as Amsterdam but at the moment, I don’t have another title scheduled.

Your photos have a meditative quality about them, especially the detailed shots, do you find the process of photographing flowers has that quality for you?

Absolutely, yes. Photographing flowers has always been therapy for me and and I do strive to capture the serenity and grace of individual flowers. Close up photography allows me to immerse myself in the intricate details that are truly captivating. Each bloom has its own story, whether the bright trumpets of a tiny narcissus or the showy petals of a ruffled peony. Taking the time to experience those stories is endlessly fascinating.

The captivating detail of a peony. (Photo: Georgianna Lane)

You have a way of capturing the magical beauty of Paris every season of the year. But for travelers looking for blossoms, what is your favorite springtime walk in Paris?

I do have many well-traveled routes for blossom hunting. In mid March, I set out from my apartment in Saint Germain to cross the river, wander through the Tuileries where there are two pretty magnolias and then over to Palais Royal which has a marvelous display of early magnolias as well as some of the first daffodils in the city. The walk home takes me past the Louvre back to my neighborhood and the whole outing is an invigorating treat.

Dreamy floral moments in the Palais Royal. (Photos: Georgianna Lane)

And I also always visit Champ de Mars many times during the spring. The first plum trees and early cherries bloom by the first week of March, followed by beautiful magnolias and camellias near the base of the Eiffel Tower. I like to spend time with the trees and encourage them, especially when the weather is harsh.

Spring blossoms at Notre Dame. (Photo: Georgianna Lane)

The real show begins a few weeks later when the Kwanzan cherry trees open up at numerous locations, most covered in the appendix in Paris in Bloom.

What museums or works of art in Paris do you find yourself often returning to?

For me, it is always the Impressionist and Post-Impressionists painters. They greatly influenced me artistically during my first visit to Paris when I was 14 and they continue to inspire. It’s a great comfort to know that their incredible works are just a few blocks from my home and that I can visit whenever I like.

Georgianna’s beautiful Paris images. (Photo: Georgianna Lane)

Behind the scenes: What is the most surprising/ interesting/ odd aspect of being a floral photographer?

Possibly that much of the time it’s not really glamorous! I’m usually working on a tight deadline in muddy fields or cold, wet greenhouses with weather and other seasonal challenges. I’m occasionally spotted by readers or followers who might be surprised that I’m invariably dressed in all black, wearing combat boots and lugging my gear.

But I always make sure to have a “reward” built in for myself of some quiet time alone with the flowers, once the specific shots needed are done. I have to maintain that connection with them to ensure I am able to capture and communicate their beauty and unique qualities.

Early spring blooms in the Luxembourg Gardens. (Photo: Georgianna Lane)

You share so much beauty with the world – something that is especially needed these days. But what fills your “creative well”? How do you recharge and channel so much inspiration into your work?

I am very focused with a pretty clear intention of what I want to accomplish. My overriding thoughts are of what I want people to experience, what emotions they will feel from my work. It can be very intense and with my schedule, I do risk burn out. So I do need time alone to stroll through a park, listen to birds, admire architecture and the work of other creatives. I definitely have my eye on a slower pace in the country in the near future!

A beautiful spring tableau in Georgianna’s Parisian home. (Photo: Georgianna Lane)

Your home in Paris is as beautiful as one of your photographs. How did you decide to settle in the 7th arrondissement?

Over the last seven years or so, I’ve spent so much time in the 7th arrondissement, especially in Paris Perfect properties, that it really feels like home. My new apartment is in the 7th but just near the border of the 6th, so really for me the best of both worlds as I’m close to all that is happening in Saint Germain, too. It’s an ideal location that I love and appreciate every day.

What blooms are currently in your home?

I’m currently shooting a big project with ranunculus, so had buckets of them here last week. This week, I treated myself to a spring bulb display with potted hyacinth, paperwhites and various narcissus. The apartment smells incredible – the glories of a spring garden.

Thank you, Georgianna, for sharing the beauty of spring in Paris! Find out more about Georgianna’s floral books and follow her on Instagram and Facebook for floral, travel and photography inspiration throughout the year.

The post Celebrating Spring in Paris with Georgianna Lane appeared first on Paris Perfect.

Peaceful Place Dauphine is full of fascinating history!

It’s easy to love a spot as charming as Place Dauphine. Its chestnut trees with their pink blossoms, the sound of shoes clicking along its cobblestone streets early in the morning, the familiarity of a pétanque game or kids running through the trees, and cafés so little their tables and chairs seem to spill out onto the sidewalk. But at Paris Perfect it’s safe to say we’ve truly fallen in love with Place Dauphine. As Madelyn and Philippe restored La Place Dauphine—uncovering layers of history back to when it was built in the 17th-century—it became a love story for Paris Perfect. If you’d like to be surrounded by all this history during your stay, find out more about our luxury vacation rentals at La Place Dauphine!

Historic details in our Muscat vacation rental at La Place Dauphine

You will be surprised just how much history is packed into this one picturesque little square in Paris. We love sharing about all the fascinating details we’ve uncovered over the years, so now let’s look at some of the most important and intriguing moments from the past at Place Dauphine.

The Palais de la Cité depicted in an illuminated manuscript from the early 15th century (credit)

The 6th Century – Before Place Dauphine

While Place Dauphine—as we know it today—wasn’t built until the early 17th century, the location has long been a coveted spot. The Île de la Cité is the oldest part of Paris, where a Gallic tribe called the Parisii first settled around the 3rd century BC. Set at a crossroads for trade, the location flourished and by the 6th century the western side of the island was the home to the Palais de la Cité. It was here on this island where the kings of France lived for centuries and where St. Louis brought the Crown of Thorns to Sainte-Chapelle. At the tip of the island, the King’s Garden was a place of respite and beauty.

The Île de la Cité and the King’s Garden on a map from c. 1550 (credit)

As the heart of Paris from its very beginning, the Île de la Cité is a great spot for digging into the history of Paris. This was where Jacques de Molay, the last grand master of the Knights Templar was burned at the stake in the 14th century. It is where, four centuries later, Marie Antoinette was imprisoned at the Conciergerie. Where the great cathedral of Notre-Dame was built and the “Kilometer Zero” of Paris. With time, however, the French kings moved to the Louvre Palace on the right bank of the Seine and the Île de la Cité became both the judicial and commercial center of Paris.

A depiction the bridge design Henri III approved for Pont Neuf in the late 16th century (credit)

1578-1607: Building Pont Neuf

The history of the Place Dauphine we know and love today begins with the construction of Pont Neuf. Starting in 1550, King Henri II began plans to build a bridge across the Seine to relieve the existing bridges that were already crowded with traffic. However, construction of the bridge didn’t begin until the reign of King Henri III who approved designs in 1578. Early plans already indicate a complete redesign of the tip of the island, including filling in the land between the King’s Garden and the bridge, which was built over two small islets located off the western tip of the Île de la Cité.

While Pont Neuf was opened to traffic in 1604, it wasn’t completed and inaugurated until 1607. During construction of the bridge, quais were built to extend the island and it was in this new space that France’s next king, Henri IV, would create something truly unique: Place Dauphine.

Île de la Cité and the new Place Dauphine on a map of Paris from 1618 (credit)

1607: The Idea of Place Dauphine is Born

As the Pont Neuf reached completion, it was time to create King Henri IV’s new square, which was named in honor of his son, the dauphin, the future Louis XIII. The location couldn’t have been better – located as it was right at the busy center of Paris at the turn of 17th century. That suited Henri IV’s plan to build commercial square perfectly.

Place Dauphine wasn’t the king’s first attempt at building a commercial square, but it would prove to be the most successful. In 1605, Henri IV had Place Royale—now the much-loved Place des Vosges—built with the intention to create a commercial and residential area for merchants and artisans. Things didn’t go quite as planned, however, as the development quickly became a square for the nobility.

With Place Dauphine, the location and scale were far more suited for the king’s desire to create an elegant and central business square. In May 1607, Henri IV approved designs for the Place Dauphine, which included rows of buildings all with matching facades that were to be built around a triangular shaped square. Each three story tall building consisted of two ground floor shops, two floors of residential space and a small attic space.

An 18th-century etching showing stylish Place Dauphine (credit)

These new properties lining the square quickly became the most expensive in Paris. Each site was sold individually and the buildings, once complete, were primarily occupied by just the sort of tradesmen that King Henri IV imagined. It became a thriving commercial center that was home to a variety of merchants, artisans, goldsmiths, metalworkers and booksellers. The new square became the center for advances in science and technology as well as a sought after residential address for court officers who found it handy to live near the law courts.

Over the centuries, Place Dauphine continued to be a place of business and also pomp and ceremony. In 1792, during the Revolution, the square was renamed Place Thionville, and it held that name until 1814 when it was renamed Place Dauphine.

Place Dauphine before the eastern side was demolished (credit)

1871: Place Dauphine Burns

In the spring of 1871, Paris became the setting for a violent battle as soldiers from the National Guard seized the city and founded the Paris Commune. While only lasting a little over two months, from March 18 – May 28 1871, it left many lasting marks on the urban landscape of the city. In the last bloody days, soldiers from the Commune set fire to key government and religious buildings. The Tuileries Palace, the royal residence of France’s monarchs from Henri IV to Napoleon III, was burned, as well as the Hôtel de Ville, the Church of Saint-Eustache, and much of the Palais de Justice, located where the Palais de la Cité was at on the Île de la Cité, was destroyed. Fortunately, nearby Sainte-Chapelle survived. However, the eastern side of Place Dauphine wasn’t so lucky. The buildings on that side were heavily damaged by fires.

Although hard to imagine with Place Dauphine’s charm today, the square was worn down by the late 19th century – caught as it was in the middle of the Paris Commune fires and clashing in style to the new Palais de Justice that was inaugurated in 1868, just a few years before the fires, by Baron Haussmann (1809-1891), a French official who was the prefect of Seine. The future of Place Dauphine lay in the hands of Haussmann, the man behind the Renovation of Paris. The was the man who changed the urban landscape of Paris more than anyone since Henri IV two centuries before. That future did not look good.

A proposed plan for Haussmann showing the redevelopment of Place Dauphine in the mid 19th century (credit)

1874: Place Dauphine takes final form

In an unexpected twist of fate, the Paris Commune and the end of the Second Empire may have very well saved Place Dauphine from the hands of Haussmann. His plans for the Île de la Cité, some of which were executed, included drastic demolition of much of the island except for the Palais de Justice, Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle. Can you even imagine? We don’t have to  work very hard to imagine since we can take a look at plans that architects had in mind for Place Dauphine, which were created specifically for Haussmann.

Engraving showing the demolition of the east side of Place Dauphine in 1874 (credit)

After so much destruction, the restyling of Place Dauphine took a back seat to more urgent projects – and then were simply forgotten with time. While Haussmann’s plans (thankfully!) weren’t executed, the square did need some attention. This came in 1874 when the buildings on the eastern side of Place Dauphine along rue de Harlay were torn down to open up the view and make space for the grand staircase of the Palais de Justice. This is the view we see today, complete with a garden of trees that simulates the space where the buildings once stood.

And so, 267 years after construction began on this unique square, Place Dauphine was no longer a nearly enclosed space. Yet much of the character of its 17th-century buildings survived and the history of the square—from tranquil garden to thriving business center, great turmoil and renewal—is still there waiting for you to discover. Find a shady spot on a bench below the chestnut trees and soak it all in.

La Place Dauphine is ready to welcome you to a comfortable stay surrounded by history!

Plus … The Opening of La Place Dauphine

For Paris Perfect, there’s a very special date in Place Dauphine: 2016. That is when La Place Dauphine opened to the first guests after a 2 year in-depth restoration, which you can find out more about in our Paris Perfect video series. We had the honor of rescuing one of Place Dauphine’s historic residences and transforming it into six beautiful apartment rentals right in the historic heart of Paris.

Each apartment at La Place Dauphine is full of historic details

From the moment you step into the completely restored lobby, you can feel the history come alive. Each one of the apartments is unique and full of historic details combined with all the modern conveniences for a comfortable stay. Don’t worry about climbing flights of stairs as an elevator was even added during our restoration. But look for historic wooden beams and antique decor that hearkens back to the building’s rich history.

Open the windows to the Parisian morning in Place Dauphine below!

Our guests rave about the views and how the atmosphere of Place Dauphine can be felt in every apartment rental. Whether you’re waking up and opening the windows to hear the sounds of morning, watching a game of pétanque or enjoying sunset, you’ll experience Place Dauphine in a new way. You can even relax and take in the views from the balcony of the two penthouse properties Savennières and Monbazillac.

A stunning view from the Savennières penthouse at La Place Dauphine

Ready to book your stay at La Place Dauphine? Contact our reservations team for help planning your perfect stay in the historic heart of Paris!

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A classic Parisian balcony view from the Bordeaux apartment

Sometimes architecture is so much a part of the fabric of a city that it makes its way into our imagination without us even realizing it. We can hardly think of New York without that iconic skyline filled with gravity-defying skyscrapers, just as no image of London would be complete without a backdrop of terraced houses covered in English ivy. But perhaps no scene is as iconic as the great boulevards of Paris, lined with those romantic pale stone buildings ringed in wrought iron balconies.

That unforgettable Parisian style

Indeed, Parisian balconies are a rarity by design, and the history of them is a history of urban planning itself. Much of modern Paris owes its aesthetic to Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann, who was appointed prefect of the Seine region in the mid-19th century. Until that time, Paris was largely a tangle of medieval streets, narrow buildings and close quarters, all of which combined to create an urban environment that was unable to keep pace with its expanding population. Haussmann’s task was to create a cleaner, safer and more elegant city design that could accommodate both the well-to-do and the working class, and to unify the landscape through architecture. Having studied in London, Haussmann wanted to bring some of the precision he’d seen in the city to his hometown. The result of this massive infrastructure project are the wide boulevards and stately buildings of central Paris, with the unmistakable iron balconies that would become a symbol of the City of Light.

Breakfast doesn’t get more beautiful than on the balcony at our Château Latour vacation rental

But there is more to the balcony than meets the eye, for Haussmann’s architectural details were incredibly specific and executed not just for comfort but for beauty. Indeed, he decided that while the interiors of buildings could vary, the facades followed strict guidelines, including the height (no more than six floors) and color (a cream colored, locally sourced Limestone). But balconies were even more closely regulated: the second story was called the “noble” floor, and it was here that buildings would have wraparound balconies with intricate window frames, which gave their residents precious outdoor space at an elevated point above the fray of pedestrians and horse drawn carriages. At a time before elevators, the second floor was considered a prime location, as there were less stairs to climb yet still high enough above the street to have a view.

A beautiful building in the 7th arrondissement

But Haussmann’s vision did not stop there, and he wanted the buildings themselves to reflect the symmetry and order of this new city. The third, fourth and sometimes fifth floors would have smaller balconies fitted to the windows and less ornate carvings, and a wraparound balcony would also line the top floor of the building to balance against the more grand design below. These higher floors were not given the same distinction as the “noble” stories in those early days, but with the advent of elevators and their installation into many of those classic buildings, the balconies higher above the city became just as prized, if not more so, than their counterparts.

Step out onto the charming balcony at our Champagne apartment

As the city evolved and millions of people flocked to it from all over the world, the chance to stay in one of these quintessentially Parisian buildings has become a dream for aspiring artists, hopeless romantics and intrepid travelers. There is truly no greater joy than a morning coffee or afternoon glass of wine on one of those precious pieces of real estate in the middle of the city. No matter how big or small, a Parisian balcony is part of history, a place to gaze upon the rooftops and along the boulevards of one of the most glorious cities in the world. Haussmann wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Savor sweet moments on the Savennières balcony overlooking Place Dauphine

The simple pleasure of a Parisian balcony isn’t always that easy to find, but we do seem to have a talent for sniffing them out all over the city center. Monbazillac and Savennières, two of our apartments at historic La Place Dauphine, are perfect examples of the kinds of hidden jewels that are nestled within Paris. Overlooking Place Dauphine in the Ile de la Cité, the building actually dates from 1610 and is set on the square that was constructed at the behest of King Henri IV. Who knows? Maybe these very buildings were the ones that inspired the transformation of Paris into the city it became.

Dine al fresco at the Margaux with a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower

We love the tranquillity and charm of the 7th arrondissement, and it’s one of the best places to situate yourself for a Parisian holiday. Our Champagne apartment has been described by guests as “one of the most romantic escapes in Paris,” and the seven French doors leading to the wraparound balcony certainly help it live up to the label. The three bedroom Margaux apartment is a rare find not just for its size, which can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people, but for the sun filled balcony that’s big enough to dine al fresco with the city below you.

Take in the beauty of Paris from the balcony of the Château Latour

The Chateau Latour apartment has views across the city, and the extra wide space means that you can toast to your trip as the sun glints off of the rooftop of the Sacre Coeur. The Bordeaux apartment brings the outside in with the wrought iron balcony just outside of your living room, making you feel like you’re stepping into the city without ever leaving home. Of course, the best part about having an apartment with a balcony in the 7th? The Eiffel Tower stands majestically in front of you and turns your balcony into the best seats in the house. Paris may be the City of Light, but from here it feels like they shine just for you.

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Our dad, Colonel John Byrne, on the right

Because our father was an Air Force pilot and often away on flight missions, Mom capably managed the family, juggling 13 moves around the world over the course of his career.

When there were only three girls … I’m the one in the middle, and dad’s holding me back to keep me from running onto the landing strip

I wasn’t the easiest child, always the impetuous contrarian in a strict military household. My family and colleagues will tell you that hasn’t changed! I wish I could say that I started Paris Perfect over 20 years ago with a long term master plan, that I anticipated we would grow the business to where it is today, to expand to Italy Perfect, London Perfect and even into fractional co-ownership apartments, but frankly it was a having an unstoppable mother as a role model and a series of serendipitous events that guided my vision for our company. My previous business experience, pure stubbornness and a great team helped to turn my ideas into reality.

With baby number 5, Colleen. Three of us were running fevers, but mom managed to dress us in snowsuits and drive to the Base for our passport photo. Notice the snowsuit pants!

If you are juggling motherhood, work and the challenges of these days, I offer my support and best wishes for Mother’s Day and I encourage you to dream and embrace new challenges. ⠀

Then I became a mother too!

All the best to you,

Maddy

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The flood of 1910 on the Pont de l’Alma bridge (Credit: Séeberger frères / Centre des monuments nationaux)

Paris has always been a dream for photographers. While capturing the magic of the City of Light, photographers have also preserved key moments in the city’s history. In the latest installment of his ultimate guide to the 7th arrondissement, Oliver Gee of The Earful Tower shares seven of the most intriguing and surprising photographs of this neighborhood. Last year Oliver and his lovely wife, Lina of Parisian Postcards, stayed with Paris Perfect in our Bergerac, Calvados and Montagny apartments near the Eiffel Tower. After getting to know the local lifestyle firsthand, we asked Oliver and Lina to share their guide to the best of the 7th arrondissement. After his Secrets of the 7th Arrondissement You Won’t Find in a Guidebook, Oliver is back with the fifth of seven blog posts in the series. Get ready to travel back in time with his selection of fascinating photos from the past.

Seven Incredible Historic Photos of the 7th Arrondissement

The seventh district is probably the most photographed arrondissement in Paris. With the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay and more – it would almost be hard to take a bad photo. But have you ever taken a look at some of the fascinating historic photos of the neighborhood? Here are seven that show particularly striking moments in time.

The Eiffel Tower in 1888 (Credit)

1. The Eiffel Tower under construction

Way back in 1888, the half-finished Eiffel Tower made for an intriguing sight. The building would soon reach 300 meters–the tallest building in the world at the time–and would form the entrance to the Universal Exhibition (which you’ll read more about in a moment). In this picture, you can get a good idea of how they constructed the Iron Lady from each leg and into the middle. You can also surely imagine not only how the project would have been the talk of the town, but also a great advert for what was to be an enormous exhibition the following year.

Rue de Lille during the Paris flood of 1910 (Credit: Séeberger frères / Centre des monuments nationaux)

2. Rue de Lille flooding in 1910

In early 2021 the river Seine flooded, but not even remotely as seriously as it did in 1910. Back then, the water flooded through the Metro tunnels and storm drains, taking Parisians by surprise and causing mayhem for weeks. In this image, you can see the rue de Lille completely submerged, with locals having no choice but to take a boat from A to B. Rue de Lille runs parallel to the river, but is behind the Musée d’Orsay, which gives you an idea of how much the flood extended beyond the river banks.

The Gare d’Orsay station about 1900 (Credit)

3. When Musée d’Orsay was a train station

Speaking of the Musée d’Orsay, did you know that it was a popular train station up until 1939? If you read some of Hemingway’s old books about Paris, you’ll see him referring to the Orsay as a station, which seems quite unusual as we’ve all known it as a famed art museum since 1986. In this image, taken around 1900, you can see that the interior has hardly changed since its days as a station, except in the place of passengers we now have art enthusiasts and in the place of trains we have some of the most incredible sculptures and art the world has ever seen.

Aerial view of the Eiffel Tower and Universal Exhibition in 1889 (Credit)

4. A view over the Universal Exhibition

For this picture we’re heading back to the Universal Exhibition of 1889, which was an enormous showcase of art, culture and technology. It was held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille and intended to pull France out of an economic slump. And no costs were spared to entertain the 32 million visitors. In the picture above, you can get an idea of the sheer size of the exhibition. The Eiffel Tower acted as the entrance and the surrounding pavilions of iron and glass housed the exhibitions. All of these pavilions have since been torn down and replaced with residential buildings – some of which feature Paris Perfect apartments! This photo, taken from a hot air balloon, doesn’t show that the exhibitions extended to the north of the river at Trocadéro and over at the Invalides Esplanade.

Gustave Eiffel (lower left) standing on the Eiffel Tower (Credit)

5. The Eiffel Tower engineer standing on it!

In this image, Gustave Eiffel himself stands on his great tower! The picture was taken the 1st of January 1889, right in time for the Universal Exhibition. Did you know that the Eiffel Tower is the only construction from the exhibition that survived until today? Construction on the tower took two years, two months and five days, and five hundred workers. By the end of the exhibition–which lasted 173 days–almost 2 million people had climbed the structure.

The Hôtel Biron in the 1910s (Credit)

6. The building that almost didn’t become the Musée Rodin

The fantastic Hôtel Biron that plays home to the Musée Rodin today has an extraordinary past. In the centuries since its construction in 1732, it has housed nobles, ambassadors, and was even a boarding school for girls from aristocratic families. It eventually fell to disrepair in the early 1900s, but in 1908 the sculptor Auguste Rodin began to use it as a studio on the lower floors and met with friends in the overgrown gardens. The building was set to be demolished and turned into flats, but the Frenchman, who had taken a liking to the historical building, managed to convince the French authorities to convert the mansion into a collection of his works for the public. The museum as we know it today opened in 1919, two years after Rodin’s death. This photo was taken about 1914, when Rodin was already creating his masterpieces in the space.

The 1900 Exposition Universelle as seen from the newly built Pont Alexandre III (Credit)

7. An early photo of the Pont Alexandre III

When we talk about universal exhibitions, most people think of the one Eiffel Tower version in 1889. But in 1900 some 50 millon people visited an enormous new centennial fair that showcased innovations like moving sidewalks, Ferris wheels and escalators. But one of the shining stars of this exhibition was the extravagant Pont Alexandre III, which was unveiled to great acclaim and played a practical role too in connecting the exhibitions on the Left and Right Banks. In this fantastic photo, we can see gentlemen inspecting the view from the newly opened bridge and a Paris skyline that hardly resembles that of today.

There you have it —  seven of the most fascinating historic photos from the seventh arrondissement, at least according to Oliver. Don’t miss the rest of his guides, including the Best Coffee Cafés, Best Streets in the 7th Arrondissement and Best Eiffel Tower Views.  

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For many years, Paris Perfect has helped former guests who contacted us about purchasing their own nest in Paris. We have been delighted to find and help remodel them.  We’ve worked with talented designer Ann Huff, on some of them.  Ann is the co-owner of Huff Harrington in Atlanta, a home furnishings store, art gallery and interior design firm. Alongside Paris Perfect founder Madelyn Byrne, Ann has led the design of Paris Perfect’s fractional co-ownership apartments since the beginning. How did this long-term relationship come to be? We sat down with Ann (always a pleasure!), and got the scoop.

For more information on our Paris Perfect co-ownership opportunities email us at sales@ParisPerfect.com. For regular updates on exciting interior design projects, fractional co-ownership properties and before-and-after apartment renovations, follow us on Instagram! Also, see our blog answering some of our most frequently asked questions about fractional co-ownership.

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Paris Perfect:  Ann, you have been renovating and designing the Paris Perfect Fractional apartments for some time. How did this happen?

Ann: Maddy and I bonded over some pink chairs!

Ann (left) and Maddy first bonded over a set of pink gingham chairs!

Several years ago, my husband and I, fulfilling a lifelong dream, bought an apartment in Paris’ 7^th arrondissement, with a lovely view of the Eiffel Tower. I knew it was going to be hard, but had no idea how hard! I set about to renovate it long distance, using a team of unknown contractors recommended by our concierge. I wish I’d met Paris Perfect’s renovation team before we took on the project, but with the help of my team at Huff Harrington Design, we painfully struggled through the transatlantic process and finally finished it, with stories to tell and words of caution to the uninitiated!

On a whim, but feeling pretty good about how it all came out, we invited Maddy to stop by for a glass of bubbles. To our great relief, she walked in, loved it and the rest is history.

The famous pink chairs in the Beaune fractional co-ownership apartment took the Internet by storm!

What about the pink chairs?

Initially, the apartment was a typical Haussmann-style railroad flat, with the kitchen tucked in the back at the end of a long hallway. We juggled the rooms and created a traditional French country kitchen in the front, facing the Eiffel Tower, and built around a beautiful marble fireplace, while keeping some of the pretty original details of the apartment. We found a gorgeous painting that had some pink in it and decided to play with that color by covering the back of the chairs in a pink check. Maddy loved that feature, took this picture and she posted it in a blog – and the next thing we knew, those chairs went viral and were all over Pinterest! I’d like to think that those pink chairs cemented our relationship.

The Beaune fractional’s living room, where Maddy and Ann bonded over bubbles and Paris properties.

How did you two meet?

We bought an apartment on the Left Bank and asked Paris Perfect to rent it for us. I did the design and Maddy loved it. One touch was brown dining chairs that had pink gingham backs. I believe that those chairs helped make it one of their best-rented apartments! In the meantime, Maddy had a few other projects that she asked our design team to work on — first in London, then Paris and finally in New York. Each time, she was the most enthusiastic and supportive client, and we discovered how much we had in common and became good friends.

How did the work evolve?

After working on several projects together, we developed a deep trust and appreciation for each others’ businesses. One day, Maddy found a little gem on the 6^th floor of one of the best streets in Paris, with a stunning view of the Eiffel tower and two windows, one facing southeast and the other southwest. She asked if we could renovate it. Of course, we agreed instantly! A chorus of doubters told us that the apartment could never be transformed to a one bedroom, but against all odds, we did it! Maddy was thrilled; the apartment turned out to be a real jewel and it cemented our partnership.

The Crémant studio, the third fractional co-ownership apartment, features an incredible Eiffel Tower view.

What was next?

In her inimitable way, Maddy found another apartment, just down the street that was larger, had an incredible view of the Eiffel Tower with a small balcony, and a bedroom in the back. (We tried desperately to stretch it into a two bedroom, but this time reason won out, and we instead created a beautiful one bedroom, with a pull-out couch in the living room.)  Much like our first apartment, we decided to move the kitchen from the back to the front rooms, creating a light-filled double living room with a stunning view.

The first fractional co-ownership apartment was the one-bedroom, two-bathroom Cairanne.

What other projects have there been?

Our next project was one for which I had initial doubts, although Maddy was insistent. Many of the apartments that we’ve found are in such bad shape that you feel great about gutting them, moving walls, and starting from scratch. This one was already renovated, and at first, I tried convincing Maddy that with a little lipstick, we could make it beautiful. But she is a visionary, and with her persistence, we took it down to the studs and rebuilt the loveliest, light-filled apartment that quickly became a favorite.

The fourth fractional co-ownership apartment from Paris Perfect shared is the one-bedroom, two-bathroom Conti.

Our most recent renovation was more of the typical “great bones, great view and bad layout” type that we love to tackle. Although the setting is superb, and the view sensational, this one dealt us a lot of challenges due to the location of some of the pipes and some unmovable walls. Plus, there was an additional challenge called covid. After our initial apartment visit, we couldn’t get back to measure, photograph, and monitor the progress. Because this one was fraught with so many issues, I find the result even sweeter. I love the Vivant apartment and could move there in a heartbeat!

Vivant is the fifth fractional co-ownership apartment; it sold out in 24 hours!

Maddy, we understand you’re the expert at finding exceptional apartments in Paris for your clients. Is the Paris real estate market easy to penetrate?

Oh my gosh, no! The Paris real estate market has always been extremely competitive. In a city that can’t expand up or out, there is just a limited amount of real estate, compounded by the fact that many Parisians don’t want to give up their patrimoine – which basically means real estate, but it has an even bigger emotional meaning to it. So with very limited supply and lots of buyers (I believe there are 10 buyers for every apartment), you have to be on top of the game, if you’re going to find an apartment. If you want to play the game, you’ve got to be very competitive – and act fast! And you need to look for things like light, view, building quality, neighborhood and anything sexy like a balcony or high ceilings.

The view from Crémant is magical!

I wake up super early each morning. just to look at the day’s new offerings and pounce on them before they hit the wider circuit. Paris real estate agents are always very cagey about the locations, so I became an expert at walking up and down the streets on google maps, identifying some little element, like the shape of a balcony or a roof line, that would indicate the location. (I called it my morning exercise!) If it looked OK, I would pounce – and despite this, and my deep knowledge of the 7^th arrondissement, I would still lose out more often than not.

And how did the idea of fractional co-ownership come about?

We realized that while many of us dream of owning a little pied a terre in  Paris, we don’t want to go through the hassle of finding an apartment, buying it, dealing with the financing, the renovation, furnishing and the taxes, only to figure a few years later that we’re paying for a costly, empty apartment that we can only use a few months per year. (Although, we may have gained popularity among our friends!) The shared concept is such a smart idea, and we are huge proponents of it. I also love the idea that all of the maintenance and cleaning is included, so when you arrive, the beds are made, the towels are fluffed. All you have to do is show up!

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Vivant was untouched for nearly 50 years, until Ann worked her magic.

Questions for both of you:

What are some of the renovation challenges in the Paris apartments?

The toilets! Keep in mind that all of the buildings are at least 100 years old, and typically there is only one sewer pipe for each building, usually hidden in a corner of the back. So you have to be pretty clever and lucky to hook up more than one toilet in an apartment. We have figured out ways to get around this in most cases, but when we identify this issue in a potential apartment, it can be a deal killer. We also run in to issues with load-bearing walls and chimney flues that can eat up wall space, especially as you go up higher in the building. It’s a lot like working on a jigsaw puzzle; it’s a great feeling when all the pieces come together!

What challenges do you, Maddy, and Ann often find when it comes to décor?

Yes indeed, we joke about this all the time!  In Atlanta, you can source anything antique to contemporary just by going to the design center and a few retail stores.  There is a plethora of choice in everything from upholstery, to wallpaper, furniture, decorative accessories, rugs, fabrics and more.  But in France, the selection is limited and very different. Like finding contemporary plumbing fixtures in brass!  Good luck with that.  And yet, in the U.S., that’s the most popular finish.

While we’re accustomed to buying antiques and one-of-a-kind furnishings from vendors all over Europe, it’s a little trickier when it comes to contemporary furniture and upholstery.  In France,  upholstery is on a smaller scale, furniture is lower, variety is lacking and taste is more contemporary.  Try finding an upholstered swivel armchair with contemporary lines that is comfortable enough to sit in and watch TV and you’re out of luck!  On the other hand, there are some beautiful antique and contemporary one-of-a-kind pieces that we just love and often they come with an interesting story which is all part of the fun.

The design inspiration starts with the art.

How do you determine the style of the décor?

We want to marry history with modern conveniences and elegance with comfort. Maddy: ‘As experts in hospitality we knows that when people travel, they seek luxury and convenience, elegance and comfort, which is what the Paris Perfect apartments all offer. So we strive to make every fractional apartment warm, welcoming, elegant and French, with all the comforts of an American home!

The Conti bedroom mixes modern with antique, a signature of our apartment design.

For us, the inspiration often starts with a piece of original art, which dictates the tone and drives the rest of the décor, like the one above, which came from Maddy’s collection. It usually involves mixing antiques with a few contemporary pieces like a modern table, some comfy American-style seating, great lighting, beautiful drapes, interesting accessories and luscious bedding. And of course, we always embolden the view and try to preserve or recreate the historic character of the building, with details like mantels, molding and flooring.

The open kitchen and living room of Conti blends American living with French style.

Maddy, How do you keep the designs fresh?

Each apartment is different, and each one has its unique features that we try to bring out. We spend a lot of time gathering a sense of place and letting that dictate the style. We let the bones of the apartment, the light and the view take a lead in the direction, whether it’s a very modern and sleek kitchen or a traditional style that would be more reminiscent of a French country estate. And we’ve learned a lot! Our clients want sleek and clean-looking bathrooms, comfy beds, luxurious sheets, great lighting, high-speed internet and lots and lots of USB and other outlets for charging their numerous devices. I also think that having original art is what gives each apartment uniqueness and soul.

It’s not always glamorous — an antique mirror bound for Conti.

Maddy, What would you tell the uninitiated about taking on a Paris apartment renovation?

It’s not for the faint of heart – even if you speak the language, work with some wonderful contractors, know the area and have great taste! You also have to deal with French bureaucracy, working with limited vendor resources, finding products that don’t exist in France, shipping, receiving, timing and incurring the wrath of your neighbors for all the construction. Frankly, I tell them, “Don’t bother doing it yourself: Buy a fractional ownership instead!” It’s a lot easier and affordable and you’ll get to spend more time gallivanting around your favorite Paris haunts, instead of hunting down tile in the back alley of an unfamiliar arrondissement!

Ann loves using antique French mirrors and chandeliers in her designs, like these in Vivant.

What’s on the current agenda?

Well, I’m happy to announce that we are working simultaneously on two new fractional co-ownership apartments in Paris!

The view from one of our forthcoming fractional co-ownership apartments

The first is a stunning one-bedroom apartment, from whose 6^th floor windows, you can practically reach out and touch the Eiffel Tower! It’s on the sunny corner of a one of the most charming and shopping-friendly streets in Paris.

And we’re working on another apartment, actually in the same building, that is a beautiful two-bedroom, two-bath apartment. This one overlooks avenue de la Bourdonnais, which in my (completely unbiased!) mind, is the prettiest avenue in Paris.

Ann’s inspiration board for one of our next fractional co-ownership apartments

Oh, and last but not least, we have just finished a dreamy project coming up in Rome! It’s a stunning vacation rental in Rome, with a private terrace in one of the most exclusive, historic parts of Rome. This will be a whole chapter in and of itself, and because of the many twists and turns, may turn in to a book! And it all began with pink gingham chairs years ago.

We are so grateful to have found so many exceptional apartments in Paris for our clients and transforming them! If you’re thinking about purchasing an apartment in Paris, please get in touch. We’re a friendly team who would be pleased to answer your questions!

We have two new Paris fractionals coming very soon — a one-bedroom and a two-bedroom! If you’re interested in learning more about Paris Perfect Shared and fractional co-ownership, please email us at Sales@ParisPerfect.com or enter your name and email address in the box below. Our sales team will be in touch with more information and can also schedule a call at your convenience. Don’t miss your chance to put your name on our ever-growing fractional waiting list.

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We’re excited to introduce our latest Paris Perfect co-ownership apartment – the stunning Vivant! Our Paris Perfect Shared co-ownership concept has proven so popular that we sold 10 of the 13 Vivant shares to our ever-growing waiting list; the remaining shares were sold in a matter of hours. If you love the idea of owning a gorgeous pied-à-terre in Paris, at an affordable price, managed by the most experienced property management team, we recommend you act fast. Email inquiries to Sales@ParisPerfect.com.

Vivant is Paris Perfect’s Newest Co-Ownership Apartment

The Vivant, which means “alive” in French, is an homage to the great Romanée-Saint-Vivant wine and the perfect name for this exceptional apartment. It is situated on prestigious Avenue de la Bourdonnais, one of the priciest real estate locations in Paris. Just steps from the Champ-de-Mars gardens, it boasts an Eiffel Tower view.

A one-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, Vivant can accommodate four people and has been completely transformed. The result is the perfect balance of classic, historic French touches and design for modern living.

Vivant is located in a beautiful, seven-story Haussmannian building, with an elevator. It was Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann who was commissioned by Napoleon III to transform Paris from medieval to marvelous! These Haussmannian buildings’ historic status are protected by French law, which means the building, along with the other buildings surrounding it, have been and will be preserved for generations to come.

Dating to 1890, Vivant’s building on Avenue de la Bourdonnais was constructed during the Belle Époque, one year after the Eiffel Tower was completed for the Exposition Universelle of 1889. The most famous World’s Fair in history celebrated not only the engineering feat by Gustav Eiffel, but also featured Thomas Edison and his new phonograph, the first elevators by Otis and impressionist artists such as Gauguin, Whistler and John Singer Sargent.

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The Long Road to Transforming Vivant

Competition is fierce to buy apartments with special features located in desirable locations. It’s an exciting story as to how we found Vivant earlier this year and beat out two other potential buyers by mere minutes. Thanks to the efforts of our lawyer and Paris team, the offer was accepted and secured. We were particularly pleased that it not only boasts an Eiffel Tower view, but it overlooks one of the charming small street leading directly to the Champ-de-Mars gardens.

The owners of the apartment had not updated it in about 50 years, so our fabulous interior designer Ann Huff and her team had plenty of work to do! Watch our part I video to see how Vivant looked before!

Renovation work on Vivant stopped for two months during the spring lock down, but our experienced builders proved their mettle, and as soon as France reopened, work feverishly continued. In early September, as soon as Ann was able to travel to Paris, the Vivant décor was transformed into the magical space that she and her team envisioned.

We followed the renovation and design process over the span of nine months, and we think you’ll enjoy the videos showcasing the transformation:

Vivant at a Glance

• Eiffel Tower view
• Located on the 4th floor (5th American) in a historic 1890 building
• Elevator
• Features a beautiful double living room/dining room and kitchen, with two large French doors that overlook the famous Avenue de la Bourdonnais
• Approximately 50 square meters, with one bedroom, two bathrooms, accommodating up to four people
• This historic property has been expertly renovated to fit today’s lifestyle featuring French antiques, original art and elegant finishes.
• Central air conditioning, a rarity in Paris
• Double-glazed windows, make this a very quiet apartment
• Shared owner storage room to leave your personal essentials
• Complimentary Third Home membership, the premier home exchange club, with luxury homes throughout the world – a $10,000 value

If you’re interested in learning more about fractional co-ownership, please email us at Sales@ParisPerfect.com. Our sales team will promptly reply with more information and can also schedule a call at your convenience.

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The post Meet Vivant, the Newest Fractional Co-Ownership Apartment from Paris Perfect Shared appeared first on Paris Perfect.

With Paris Perfect, we made our mark through renting luxury short-term vacation rentals in Paris’ best locations, and after 20+ years in business and thousands of guests, our business has naturally evolved. Thanks to our stellar reputation in vacation rentals and property management, many of our guests have shared with us their dream of owning an apartment in Paris.

For the last two decades, Paris Perfect has helped 70+ clients purchase and transform properties into the apartments of their dreams. From identifying great properties to renovating and interior design, it’s a challenging process, especially in Paris, but this is a process in which we excel. There is no central real estate listing system in France, so having quality contacts and being in the right place at the right time are keys to snapping up the city’s best real estate. (See our best tips for buying an apartment in Paris).

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Paris Perfect and the Co-Ownership Concept

After meeting dozens of interested buyers over the years, we realized that full-property ownership would be impractical for many given the limited amount of time they can spend abroad. In addition, the hassle and expense of owning an overseas property, as well as Paris’ strict short-term rental restrictions, meant they could no longer rent their properties to earn income.

We understood that Paris Perfect had the ability to make no-hassle shared home ownership possible, thanks to our decades of managing luxury properties in Paris, London and Italy. We, along with other industry leaders, believe that co-ownership is the future of travel and multiple-home ownership.

We studied the various industry models, and we did things differently. The approach of our family-run company makes us proud, so we made offering gorgeous apartments at reasonable purchase prices and no surprise, low annual fees the cornerstones of Paris Perfect Shared.

In 2018, Paris Perfect Shared was Launched

Our rigorous process to find and renovate the best apartments add to the co-ownership success. Our first fractional apartment, the one-bedroom Cairanne, sold out in a month, with a waiting list. The two-bedroom Beaune is sold out. In the summer of 2019, we launched Crémant, a pretty studio with an outstanding Eiffel Tower view, which is also sold out. In fall 2019, the one-bedroom Conti sold seven shares prior to launch, and then sold out in 48 hours. For winter 2020, we present our latest Paris Perfect Shared apartment – the Vivant. We sold 10 of the 13 Vivant shares prior to the public launch, and the remaining shares hours after the announcement.

Owners have purchased multiple shares of our co-ownership apartments in order to maximize their time in Paris. We are proud to say that our share resales have sold quickly and have appreciated in value. In addition, all of the resales to date have been to purchase a share of a new fractional apartment from us or a whole property. Thanks to these impeccably maintained properties, there is even a waiting list for future resales. We believe this is a testament to our co-ownership concept, as well as our properties and management. See our blog answering some of our most frequently asked questions about fractional co-ownership.

If you’d like to know more about our fractional apartments in Paris and be added to our waiting list for future offers, email us at Sales@ParisPerfect.com. You’ll be among the first to hear our next exciting announcement – a new city in another European country! Existing owners have priority access to purchase.

Reserve your Share of Vivant (Currently Sold Out!)

With no-surprise dues, owning a part of Vivant is a practical and intelligent way of making your dream of owning a home in Paris a reality. We are proud to offer a luxury property, with top-notch management, at an affordable cost.

Make sure to visit the Vivant listing, complete with a 3D virtual tour, as well as the FAQs regarding Paris Perfect Shared co-ownership. And don’t forget to read about some of our designer Ann’s favorite design elements in Vivant.

Vivant at a Glance

• Eiffel Tower view
• Located on the 4th floor (5th American) in a historic 1890 building
• Elevator
• Features a beautiful double living room/dining room and kitchen, with two large French doors that overlook the famous Avenue de la Bourdonnais
• One bedroom, two bathrooms and accommodates up to four people
• Approximately 50 square meters, with one bedroom, two bathrooms, accommodating up to four people
• This historic property has been expertly renovated to fit today’s lifestyle featuring French antiques, original art and elegant finishes.
• Central air conditioning, a rarity in Paris
• Double-glazed windows, make this a very quiet apartment
• Shared owner storage room to leave your personal essentials

If you’re interested in learning more about the Vivant and co-ownership, please email us at Sales@ParisPerfect.com. Our sales team will promptly reply with more information and can also schedule a call at your convenience.

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Vivant Transformation Videos

The post Learn more about Paris Perfect Shared and the Co-Ownership Concept appeared first on Paris Perfect.