NEVER TOO SMALL Paris Architect’s Micro Apartment - 31sqm/344sqft

In search of an affordable home in Paris, architect Matthieu Torres and his partner picked out a small, dark space with a beautiful view of Paris city. Completely gutting the neglected apartment allowed them to add a previously missing toilet and shower, as well as introduce a mezzanine level by removing the aging ceiling. In turn they were able to elevate the home's bedroom and install a large furniture unit to contain the added bathroom, a wardrobe and a large amount of storage. The French ply used in the unit continues throughout the apartment, uniting the home through its plywood features while the exposed ceiling gives the apartment a spacious, airy feeling.
#smallapartment #architecture #interiordesign
Project Name: Jourdain
Architect: biloba.archi/
Produced by New Mac Video Agency
Creator: Colin Chee
Director/Camera Operator: Matthieu Torress
Producer: Lindsay Barnard
Editor: Colin Chee
Music: Rêveries by Wings for Louise

[@nevertoosmall]

If you’re an architect or designer with a project we could feature, please share it with us at www.nevertoosmall.com/submissions Architect: biloba.archi/ Photography & Videography: instagram.com/matthieu__torres / matthieutorres.wixsite.com/video Check out our book - www.nts.store Workspace by Never Too Small - www.nts.space Website www.nevertoosmall.com Instagram instagram.com/nvtsmall/ Facebook facebook.com/nvtsmall

[@td1487]

Thanks for arranging European (UK) distribution of the NTS book. I've been watching the channel for a long time and wanted to support your work by buying the book. Shipping from Oz would have made it cost prohibitive so hence localised delivery saved the day! Keep up the great work!

[@padureancalin8096]

In a word, yes! Very true!

[@shilpajain747]

Very very beautiful n aesthetically done..

[@yehtoon4237]

Is this narrated by stephen hawkin?

[@chezmoi42]

@@yehtoon4237 It is narrated by the owner/designer.

[@luxither7354]

This feels a lot more genuine of a home compared to other tiny homes seen on the channel. A lot of the furniture is just salvaged from family or the street, with much of construction kept cheap, making it have a unique aesthetic. Its not an art project, like some people who've been showcase, but a serious attempt to create an affordable living space.

[@alifloydtv]

So with you there - this is one of my absolute favourites. The walk-in wardrobe really makes small-space living practical.

[@OUTINTHEDARKfilms]

seconded

[@ninetiesgirlkatie]

great comment, totally agree

[@limepiper3650]

Yes I find that most of these videos have great ideas but are not affordable to regular people.

[@melodyguy4252]

I agree. This is my favourite space featured for quite a while. Beautiful, liveable and value based

[@Madillusionist]

Now this is practical design without relying on excessive moving parts.

[@lhimoum4589]

Agree!!!

[@szurketaltos2693]

I'd definitely prefer stairs of some kind but this is a great design overall.

[@filomatic]

@@szurketaltos2693 but how cool is this idea with little rail to stop the stairs from moving

[@szurketaltos2693]

@@filomatic yeah it's cool but seems annoying to go to the bathroom at night. A fireman pole would be nice for that too haha

[@nunyabiznes33]

@@szurketaltos2693 As someone who frequently get up at night, that was also a concern. Plus how to get up and down when sick.

[@asmith841]

What I liked in this video the most was Matthieu's humility. As a fellow architect, I'm always happy to see exemplary characters like him in our domain or elsewhere.

[@jonnyhaw]

The final bit of this, where Matthieu talks about the importance of small homes in creating vibrant communities, minimising car use, and the wish for more shared amenities alongside these small living spaces is absolutely spot on and truly visionary.

[@Nyx773]

Spot on? yes. Visionary? Almost every video on this channel has a similar message at the end.

[@NiKo44433]

No, no it’s not, he may as well have described a Jewish ghetto. Living in tiny rooms in some cramped city is not good at all for the mind.

[@Gatran1]

Hey there @@Nyx773 ! I don't think visionary necessarily means "original, new, extra-ordinary", but rather that it someone with a strong vision of the future. Cheers !

[@jeannetonic2207]

Jusqu au jour ou il a des enfants et là rien ne va plus !

[@princess-violet]

my utopia

[@eararadith07]

This is probably the most practical, homey, universally sustainable and potentially cost-saving living space featured in Never Too Small so far - its clean, DIY, using old furniture from their family's which also brings nostalgia, and yet complements the rustic, small space. The skyline additions are great, kudos to the architects!

[@3riyanto]

I like the "hidden bedroom", maybe the only without mezzanine

[@lucasgauci]

@J M for some people, this is more than enough. Their idea of a decent life is having access to the broader community and of course affordability is a big factor too. Not everyone can afford the massive house on the large block in a new estate.

[@eararadith07]

@@lucasgauci gotta agree with you. The sink looks fine to me I use that particular size often (I've seen smaller on this channel). The fridge is fine for two people, if you know how to strategically purchase/store your food, or in some cases some people own an allotment. This isn't sardine packed, especially if you're spending 50% of the day out for work/meals/leisure. Location and surrounding amenities play a big part for sure.

[@OnilMarteNavarroza]

@J M you are a typical American, always complaining about anything, always acting that your country is the best. Just stop right there because that's not true at all. Also, stop 'copy pasting' your exactly the same comment to those people who really appreciate the design.

[@user-xg6zz8qs3q]

@J M I live in France and it boggles my effin' mind why people live in North America with the housing market bubble. I used to live in a dump called Edmonton Alberta and a dingy house in the ghetto would sell for $250k. To be frank, this appartement in Paris is idiotic from a value perspective. It probably costs north of €500k. You can buy a small house in the countryside for €150k, or buy a nice flat in a medium sized city that's a bajillion times cleaner and nicer than Paris for €200k. My point is that the American dream is way more accessible in France than in North America. There are plenty of opportunities and affordable housing near the Eastern border.

[@401chel]

We always hear the word “minimalist” from designers but this is truly one of the few homes that successfully embodied the meaning of minimalistic living. Even in a small space like this they managed to make it look spacious without unnecessary items, clutter, or electronics. I also love the fact that the item that they collect the most is books!

[@Crusader1815]

The Idea that these people have books and a record player with no TV or computer apparent makes it feel like a space that could have existed in the 1940s or 1950s. If you really wanted to be minimalist, you would digitize all your music and books and store them on a solid state drive, but the fact that they have NOT done this makes it feel more human. If they would hang a cuckoo clock on the wall, it would be even better.

[@sampuatisamuel9785]

@@Crusader1815 Why a cuckoo clock? So silly

[@Crusader1815]

​@@sampuatisamuel9785 I was going to say grandfather clock, but while that would add to the old school tech feel of the place, it would take up floor space. A cuckoo clock can just hang on the wall.

[@Karen_Marie]

1,000 + books doesn't seem very minimalist

[@401chel]

@@Karen_Marie The point is to be as minimalistic as possible in order to create a sustainable living space without generating unnecessary waste, not 100% minimalistic. If they love to collect books, they can simply compensate by having fewer clothing items or electronic gadgets. Maybe I’m biased but having books seems harmless compared to buying loads of unnecessary electronics as seen in many other homes that contribute to gadget waste more frequently because they last for a few years max and people have the tendency to replace gadgets quite often to get upgrades. Books on the other hand are kept for much longer than that, or if you hardly read them anymore they can be passed on to others or be recycled easily. I think people can live a minimalistic life while still enjoying the things they like.

[@northernlights6459]

I can tell he’s a professional architect. So many elements have been considered in the construction of this beautiful apartment, not just the visual.It doesn’t look cluttered or cramped at all, unlike some I’ve seen.

[@imnotarob0t975]

It is definitely cramped when he's sleeping. the loft seems like a good idea on paper until you realize when he wakes up he has to literally crawl out of bed

[@thingslaurasays9995]

my heart melted every time he referred to family members. i also love that they talked about being able to host guests.

[@TheNightWatcher1385]

This is the first “tiny home” concept I’ve seen that actually looks cozy enough to live in.

[@Lucifronz]

Agreed. Minus the ladder and bed set-up, I'd love to live in a place like this. It's clever to put the bed up there and I understand the utility of a moveable ladder, of course, as both do wonders for saving space, but not only do I prefer a solid, fixed ladder that won't damage over time if you place it improperly, I also don't want to climb down a ladder every morning. I've done that, it's uncomfortable. When you're tired or just waking up, you don't want to exert yourself. It is a good set-up, though, and turns a previously somewhat ugly and horrid apartment into something simple and beautiful. You could easily see how someone would live there.

[@meneither3834]

It's 32 m2. This is not a "micro-appartment" by Parisian standards. Simply a small one.

[@alainportant6412]

@@meneither3834 24m² loi Carrez is small but it is not a shithole. No rentals under 9m² anyway

[@damienholland8103]

This is how the rich and the landlords gradually get you to accept a smaller and smaller area while charging more and more. Eventually most people will be living in capsules and 'grateful' to pay over half their income on them.

[@TymexComputing]

Jappaneese would make it on their 2m^2 :)

[@saturnday160]

This actually looks like a living space. Not just a weird apartment.

[@kaleycooper9111]

Looks like a display room I’d see in IKEA

[@jamesCamali]

Tall ceilings and efficient storage are keys to making a small space feel much bigger. Those sky lights and tall windows do so much work to help make the space feel bigger. Well done. Great little space.

[@hrussell9677]

Nice, clean look and perfect use of space. I love that you made a buffer with the closet and bathroom to keep the neighbors’ noise from your living area.

[@user-go8oj4dl4w]

I like the general idea but will there be an actual reduction in this case with 1/3 of the buffer (the mezzanine) being open?

[@aciralin6502]

This really feels like a tiny home built more out of necessity while still trying to keep a budget and stay tasteful than those tiny homes built just as an art project or something. I love it

[@k80_]

Also that is the most beautiful plywood finishing I’ve ever seen. The grain is so pronounced and makes the place feel a lot more warm and inviting

[@ixlnxs]

@@k80_ I agree about the wood although I wouldn't have chosen it myself. I would have chosen to paint the wood in soft, warm colours and outside the bathroom I would not have left all of the walls white either. But the layout of the flat is absolutely perfect and the restraint in furniture is wise. Too many small places are cluttered with stuff. I would have placed fixed, non-moving (spiral) staircase though. Preferably in cast iron. Ladders make me feel uncomfortable.

[@sofiaromero2963]

This apartment shows how natural light makes everything feel more pleasant and evidence that a small apartment can be comfortable and sustainable. It isn't necessary to have a lot of space and a lot of furniture to have quality of life, this is demonstrated by the apartment.

[@joelcrafter43]

Well I think there are some people who DO need a lot of space although I don't think anyone *needs* a lot of furniture so we agree there.

[@lordjacobius6289]

you will own nothing, and you will be happy!

[@DK-lz7kg]

All buzzwords. We will live in pods with barely enough money while elites travel in private jets and preach about climate change

[@getonthecrossanddontlookba5004]

Repent to Jesus Christ!! “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭103:13‬ ‭NIV‬‬ D

[@amelieb1013]

@GP Just a comment on the aspect of messiness, living in a smaller apartment with less stuff I have made the experience that I can tidy up a mess in no time. So when life happens, I just have to wash a few plates and put away a few t-shirts or papers and the place looks great again...

[@lindawong7661]

How meaningful! This tiny flat is expertly designed, not only out of necessity but also to conserve our environment on a larger scale. It's been a humbling experience watching this video. My hats off to the designers-flat owners, for being so thoughtful and considerate.

[@amy4291]

This is the most thoughtful and beautiful use of design I've seen. I never imagined they could transform the space like that. Just brilliant.

[@yamabo]

The fact that they included objects inherited from their grandparents makes my heart smile. I just lost my grandpa 2 weeks ago and made me think of him.

[@Tiadaghton37]

I'm so sorry you lost your grandpa. I have my grandparents things around my house and it brings me joyful memories of them. So make sure you get something of his for yourself.

[@NicoleTirona]

Sincere condolences 😔🙏🏼😔

[@Luupsla]

🙏

[@julieneises8851]

So sorry for your loss🙏

[@subhashtewari7892]

So sad to read shocking news of demise of grandpa

[@Sn0wButterfly]

I like that this seems less 'elitist' than some of the other spaces on this channel. I like seeing how different people make small spaces work for them, but I love that this couple seem to have done things in a more realistic way. Obviously they would have still needed a fair amount of money to do what they did. but knowing that they did it with materials/ furniture they already had, mostly their own skills & in a sustainable way makes it feel more achievable. I'd really like to see people with more modest budgets on this channel, doing things themselves like this couple, if possible. It makes the idea of this channel feel more achievable and relatable, and not just a fad for people with tonnes of disposable income.

[@xy1108]

yes, so many have tons of money to realize their little works of art. What does a penniless person do😶

[@emilycunningham8125]

Well said.

[@christobalcolon6601]

So small . . . you have to step outside to change your mind.

[@Peace-tk3gr]

@@christobalcolon6601 Triste. (Vous)

[@Elophee]

Modest people would not be able to buy this place in Paris though.

[@emperatrizmedia7333]

This apartment is seriously stunning...and that shower curtain (blanket). The creativity and vision for transformation is mind blowing

[@sharlah4057]

This it the best small apartment I have seen in a long time. All of the DIY is very admirable. I love the original use of items such as the space blanket as a shower curtain. I love that they used items inherited from family members to add personal original features to their space. I am thoroughly impressed!

[@obidean3964]

Like many have said, couldn't agree more that this is the most genuine and humble tiny home showcase I've seen. The owner deco is very modest and subtle. Neither extravagant, flashy, brand new stuffs nor over the top, grandeur materials. He really bring the minimalist approach not just in the home deco but also cost efficiency. Kudos to the owner. This is truly inspiring for many 👍🏼

[@michellebrooks5582]

Definitely one of my favorites. It's wonderful to see so many preowned pieces used and the well thought out use of space.

[@WarpRulez]

Ironically, this small apartment has a bigger kitchen than many apartments twice its size. And without even feeling cramped.

[@GirlyEnglishGamer]

Yeah honestly in Paris this isn't considered small AT ALL.

[@zoneoff668]

You're in France. The most important thing here is the kitchen ! Of course !😋

[@elisaemerald4475]

@@zoneoff668 c'est pour ça que pleins d'appartements ont des kitchenettes minuscules et absolument pas fonctionnelles 😂

[@zoneoff668]

@@elisaemerald4475 ça se voulait plus drôle que réaliste. Cela dit, je connais pas mal de personnes pour qui pour qui c'est important d'avoir une cuisine où l'on peut cuisiner réellement. C'est culturel aussi....

[@AshBeastFPS]

@@getonthecrossanddontlookba5004 Jesus wasnt God, he is the messiah and a righteous prophet. Now enjoy the video of the beautiful apartment.

[@TalithaL]

This is my all time favorite episode. I have watched it many times. It has such a peaceful atmosphere. What an inviting, warm, yet simple and well designed space. Well done.

[@pretzeltime3900]

I absolutely love your apartment. The changes you made to the structure, and the furnishings you’ve chosen are amazing.

[@TheEmzies]

Love that they've included space for books. Proves that just because you have a small space, you don't need to sacrifice storage

[@commanderrussels2612]

yeah, books work well in small spaces. Bookshelves need to only be about 14" deep and go vertical, so it doesn't take much much area. Additionally they help with the acoustics by absorbing some sound and also diffusing sound, which can make a small space feel bigger.

[@ninconnue5609]

Agreed! My first thought on seeing the video was "finally a tiny space with actual book storage!" 😁

[@nenabunena]

Me too I'm glad they did that and had a small walkin closet. This small apartment looked very practical and beautiful to me

[@FurnitureFan]

Yes, I loved seeing a decent amount of books. Insulation and sound buffer too.

[@DaphneHarridge]

@@laurie7689 “...I’d of...” Oh, the irony. 😉

[@AliasEveWatches]

It's such a stark contrast from the outside hallway to inside

[@blueeyedwolf2205]

Yeah that hallway looks scary.

[@edmey]

@@blueeyedwolf2205 That's France. My brother-in-law has a beautifully designed and spacious apartment in a chic arrondissement in Lyon, but the entrance to the building is shockingly inadequate in size and run down.

[@JoJoboiWav]

That's basically how most of the appartement buildings look like in France when you're not going for some unaffordable shit

[@12gark]

Love this. It represents what really matters for the owners: their family legacy, recycling old stuff, saving resources and so on. Great to see people saying "i care about recycling and reusing, I care about sustainability and actually do it, not just say "it's a small house, so it's good for the envirnoment" and then put epoxy everywhere, custom furniture with curved edges and a ton of wasted scraps, and brand new everything everywhere. It's also the first time I see a "small and cheap" tiny apartment where the renovations wasn't so expensive that you could easily just buy a bigger house. very nicely done. Huge respect to people putting their money where their mouth is.

[@kelsy-inspo3413]

See, I don't think this is tiny, it seems very spacious and utilizes the area well. It's absolutely perfect and I would love to live in something like that in the city I live in.

[@bigslacker666]

If you're gonna live in a tiny box in an overcrowded city this is the way to do it. Having the vertical space, light colored materials, larger kitchen and skylights really makes it work.

[@animequeen78]

And light colors means you don't have to turn the lights on so early in the evening, which cuts your power bill down. Also, having a deep window sill means you could set up some leafy greens in pots to supplement your diet.

[@janbernad4729]

but why would you want to live in a tiny box in an overcrowded city, thats the question

[@bigslacker666]

@@janbernad4729 Don't ask me, I live in a mountain ski town. :D

[@janbernad4729]

@@bigslacker666 lucky basterd XD

[@McFraneth]

@@bigslacker666 You'll have a ringside view of the mushroom clouds then.

[@edelleaa]

wow i can't believe how the place looked before... it was depressing.. it's really amazing what some people with big ideas can achieve with a space like that, it looks amazing now!

[@shizukagozen777]

As long as you have the money...

[@edelleaa]

@@shizukagozen777 well of course, but many people with money still make atrocious and not very well functioning designs

[@shizukagozen777]

@@edelleaa Dude is an architect, that's different from just having some money and renovating an apartment. I was lowkey talking about actually hiring an architect and usually architects do good jobs. You disliking some micro apartments is another matter.

[@edelleaa]

@@shizukagozen777 i feel like you are being passive aggressive for no reason lol might not be but thats just how this reads to me. i couldn't know what you are "lowkey" talking about since you just mentioned having money and again i'm sure there are good and bad architects when it comes to small spaces and innovative ideas, not talking just about renovating an apartment

[@ruudbakstra1805]

@@edelleaa I got to agree with with Shizu. Sure it is a nice place... But was it that amazing. And what did it cost him? People always giving comments like "Omg you make that place look amazing. It's my favorite". But than the question remains, what did he paid to get it this way?

[@valentinacardenas404]

This tiny home feels like a practical solution born out of necessity, carefully balancing budget and style. I love it for its functionality 👍🏻🙌🏻

[@sarahewson3607]

What an amazing couple! They’re truly living the ideal life. I love this apartment, and I will be living in it in my dreams. As someone with a chronic illness though, I always wonder what they do if someone has a medical issue- even just a broken leg or something. That ladder becomes an issue.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

Could add a futon/foam mattress that rolls up during the day, could hang on the wall.

[@TammiLColesinGermany]

Indeed, a beautifully designed space for those without mobility challenges. As I grow older, I think increasingly about such design issues. Stairs, while lovely, serve fewer people than most imagine and thus, where possible, should be supplemented with inclines, elevators, and navigating open space. Hard to achieve in historic districts/urban areas, though, without financial resources or support.

[@marioncapriotti1514]

Oh, I so agree! I would have adored this gorgeous apartment back when I was in my 20s and 30s, with strong healthy knees, but today as an old lady, I'm grateful for my somewhat bigger (50-sq-meter) apartment, with an elevator in the lobby. I hope this young couple will stay healthy and strong for many years, and enjoy their beautiful little home.

[@GSutton]

Not only is that one of the best "tiny homes," I've ever seen, it's also one of the best homes, period. So much thought went into that space, and it perfectly reflects their lives without being overwhelming. Phenomenal job.

[@Leechwife]

Where is the tiny there? That is not a tiny apartment, period.

[@Ulexcool]

@@Leechwife Brother that _"apartment"_ is a spider hole... Are you from Japan? That would explain why you think that's a big apartment LMAO

[@moreaupascal56]

@@Ulexcool it's a studio and for a studio 24m is not really tiny

[@suemolesworth1248]

Tiny or not ..... I think this one is gorgeous 😁

[@TheBacktimer]

It's just one room. They must really get along well!

[@deckarddwizardd1909]

This is a diamond in the rough. The outside looks dirty and dilapidated bUt once you entered the apartment, its a minimalist paradise.

[@DigitalNomadOnFIRE]

You literally don’t mean literally

[@michaeloni1642]

I have seen worst...this village is rather neatly run ...look at the street pavement.

[@julianahinz-pinet4732]

You do realize this is what Paris look like? As in the non-historical part looks like. The part that hasn’t been romanticized by the media. I’ve grown up in Paris my whole life and this is what 80% of it looks like. It’s not dirty or dilapidated. It’s just how most parisiens live.

[@MaraMara89]

@@julianahinz-pinet4732 this is why when I travel I usually try to get some time to see non-turist areas. Walk through streets rather than always using underground. To see how real life look in those cities. That's why when video started the neighborhood looked familiar XD and even in tourist attraction places people sometimes do choose to ignore pieces that are not so romantic (e.g. rats around the Eiffel Tower)

[@notthesamecc1927]

Europe is like that. places you would never, ever stay in if it was in NA are unique and have character there. Just as dangerous if not more so in some cases but, Hey, it's Europe!

[@ultiumlabs4899]

In the hand of great architect, a small space can turn into a cozy home. Love it.

[@tatianamamani2657]

The use of wood in the decoration of the space creates a cozy and warm atmosphere that invites you to stay at home and the reuse of furniture shows that it is possible to create a beautiful and functional environment without the need to buy everything new, it is a truly beautiful space.

[@efuller3333]

really like the idea of repurposing the “survivalist blanket “ as a shower curtain. It stands out all the more in relation to the rest the minimalistic styling , provides a bit of surprise / fun while also serving to further reflect light in the space.

[@FurnitureFan]

It looks sunny. At least it's opaque. When I first moved into my apartment I forgot to get a shower curtain and had to wait in for deliveries. I ended up using the plastic cover from the mattress as a shower curtain for six months.

[@Jenny-tm3cm]

@@FurnitureFan hilarious and innovative

[@sheenasolero]

I hope the architect can build a lot more of these. He's a modern hero.

[@matthieutorres7362]

Oh ! Thanks a lot !

[@Requiemelle]

@@matthieutorres7362 oh hey you're the architect!!

[@matthieutorres7362]

@@Requiemelle yes :)

[@elsaquica]

@@matthieutorres7362kudos to you! This has been one of my favorite small apartments in the channel too! ☺️ Congratulations for your work and for your way to convey your messages through spaces and words. I really enjoyi t!,

[@sheenasolero]

@@matthieutorres7362 oh hi! I am glad you're able to read my comment! :) I meant it. And I hope a lot more people aspire to be conscious about environmental effects of living. I'm from the Philippines, and the cities here grow crowded as time goes, so I hope people take inspiration from your designs :) Keep on doing what you do, Matthieu!

[@katevanhoudt]

You had me at, "we used a survival blanket as a shower curtain." Brilliant. ♥

[@josequins9099]

I love that it's an asymmetrical space. The raised ceiling and skylights make it nice and airy and open. Lovely.

[@ixlnxs]

Yes! People see asymmetrical as a problem. It's not. It creates opportunities. And it looks more natural.

[@nubreed13]

You can always tell when a tiny home or apartment was designed by an actual architect or professional. They just work unlike a lot of the DIY ones.

[@rezzbuilds8343]

I applaud diyers for giving it their best and cooking out with an end product. But a professional is always gonna blow them out the water

[@Kobe29261]

Honest truth, most DIYers would love Architect input but try talking to a firm even for a project with this foot print. Unaffordable by al but very few

[@alterego157]

Not really. I've seen plenty absolutely horrendous designs done by architects.

[@rezzbuilds8343]

@@alterego157 And I've seen probably 10 tens times as many done by homeowners and amateurs

[@rezzbuilds8343]

@@alterego157 Idk you seem to have a belief that the diyer is just as good as the architect then okay you do you. I bet you do your own accounting and cut your own hair too, who am I to judge

[@alenwesker9552]

This room contains a sense of relaxation. The modification is amazing.

[@toonverberg1313]

Thanks for showing us this project.

[@ThePixel1983]

Normally I'd say "hell no" to making the room that high because the heat rises so it'll be cold in the winter, but here it rises to the only space available: the bed. This is perfect! And when it gets hot in summer you can let the hot air rise through the window.

[@vab120]

The more height in your apartment is actually considered luxurious in Paris. You should see old Haussmann apartments with over 13 feet from the floor to the ceiling decorated with moldings and ornaments it’s gorgeous.

[@sapinta]

well, it depends where you live. I had the exact opposite reaction. Hell yeah high ceiling! Hell no high bedroom! Where I live, that bedroom would cook you, with or without a window (I leave under the roof and my 35sqm apartment has 4 widows, nevertheless it gets over 30° celsius without AC, in summer nights). And anyway, you couldn't keep that window open at night, unless you want unexpected "guests" to come in.

[@ThePixel1983]

@@vab120 I still don't want to pay for it. Neither the apartment nor the heating. 😁

[@CalypsoColumbia]

@@sapinta For the unattended guests, you know that it is possible to have mosquito nets installed on windows?

[@sapinta]

@@CalypsoColumbia mosquito nets are not gonna stop a thief (not even rats)

[@hifellowhumans8393]

Simplicity doesn't necessarily mean not having taste. This man, his girlfriend, and their home are proof of this. What an amazing home.

[@Fr1kaD3ll37]

Simplicity is taste

[@joshnabours9102]

Hi! Fellow human!

[@linmonash1244]

This is great. Lot's of personalised touches that make it really a home, and shows how much you can achieve without breaking the bank. Very well done.

[@TheElusiveReality]

i love the incorporation of so many pieces from their grandparents' houses

[@brunaiglesias5542]

I LOVE the tiny library they have, usually the small apartments never have more than like 4 books. Very refreshing, inspiring and lovely. This is one of my favourite homes of the channel!!!

[@amberbante8605]

I love that concept too! Not everyone has the time to go to the library to check out books, and reading from a Kindle isn't always relaxing like it is from an old school book.

[@joejoejoejoejoejoe4391]

A library, decent hi fi, but no TV, seems about right to me.

[@MidnightCoffee12]

I love that, except needing ladder access to get to the books on the mezzanine. If he'd just have the mezzanine shelves facing into the loft area, he could reach the books from the bed.

[@heathertruskinger6214]

I love the fact that there are many items used that had belonged to a loved relative 🧡. That would definitely make this tiny space feel very special.

[@makeascene1587]

This is a really delightful point to the home. The door handles really evoke a sense of connection to the architects family, as every time you open those doors you are almost making a physical embrace. Same as his partners fathers work table (now dining table). An item of furniture that the father would have been using daily, using it to produce his ideas and express himself via his work. That same place can be now be shared with his daughters family and friends and the anchor point in her daily life as she gets the day started eating breakfast. A small but meaningful home.

[@heathertruskinger6214]

@@makeascene1587 ❤️

[@user-cs6bg4zp5q]

I like when space is properly used to it's almost full potential. Great work people!

[@juls2334]

Absolutely stunning! Love the thought they put into every detail!

[@lisakilmer2667]

This is a good example of a pretty common concept: a lofted bedroom above bathing facilities (and sometimes a kitchen also). The use of bookcases as walls is wise, and the kitchen is actually full-size, instead of an alcove.

[@LDTube-pz9fq]

Not to mention real dining table and real sofa, which I consider the two most important elements of a living space while are inexplicably neglected by so many architects working with small spaces

[@liiporta7964]

@@LDTube-pz9fq True👍

[@AM09286]

Absolutely stunning. I love seeing apartments that real people live in, not just Airbnb’s.

[@garyvarty8154]

Tremendous thought and planning the apartment is perfect and imperfect it's unique

[@mystarmach]

There's a reason this is one of the most viewed videos on this channel. It's actually a well-designed small space.

[@anakatarina1622]

I watched this 3x in a row. This is the best design that I've seen so far. Practical, sustainable, eye pleasing. I love it. I love it so so so so so so much. Congratulations to Matthieu, I would love to see more of his work.

[@sampuatisamuel9785]

Me too

[@jennyferlapez3945]

Substenaible what? 😂

[@Pixie82]

I don't usually like apartments with mezzanine/loft spaces for sleeping, but I quite like this one. The apartment seems very genuine and comfortable. I love the touches of inherited furniture and keeping the imperfect sinks.

[@siddharthsharma8940]

@illawarrior hill I'd probably pee in a bottle

[@paradice6470]

This is absolutely gorgeous! it's so great how you can make something so ugly into something beautiful and personal.

[@randolphpinkle4482]

I love how Clementine honored her grandparents in so many small ways.

[@PhantomSavage]

*Meanwhile, in New York* The Superintendent: "You want to do WHAT to the apartment!?"

[@joshuarussell1165]

I guarantee you if you did this in America your landlord would sue you smh

[@Whately80]

They obviously own the place…

[@lzh4950]

Meanwhile in my country (Singapore) there're legal limits on how big your building can be, expressed as the "plot ratio" - the building's total floor area divided by the area of the land it sits on. Adding a loft like that could be legally considered as increasing the building's floor area & thus the plot ratio to above the legal limit. Unless you can argue that the loft is more like a bunk bed instead I guess. Another consideration is if the walls are strong enough to support the floor added by the loft

[@brianjanssen3929]

Beat me to it best comment🙌👌❤

[@AndyourGaming]

Meanwhile in real paris you cannot do that, landlords wont allow it, you cannot even put a fucking nail in the wall lmao

[@christinesmith5368]

Your home is beautiful!

[@marianarojassanchez5252]

It is incredible how a remodeling can be done with so much austus, they make a space that is small have a feeling of spaciousness.

[@arieslondon92]

He's utilized all his space in a way he has every comfort . His use of color and light and textures and brightened up his home creating a larger look to his surroundings he hasn't given up any luxury in his place regardless of it's size because he is good at what he does. Also he has a lot of books but as far as everything else he doesn't over crowd And keeps it simple which helps utilize the space and add to it's clean open organized feel

[@Jess-jt4zf]

*They. He says he and his girlfriend did it all together.

[@archiegoodwinjr]

This is a lovely space to look at and appears to work well for young people. Separating lofted bedroom from lower toilet facility works okay until age intrudes on sleep. This architect suggests that having all white walls makes a space seem bigger, but interior designers say that all dark walls is more effective for the illusion of spaciousness. I have tried both white and black and agree with interior designers.

[@knycxjourneying]

Finally, an apartment that feels like someone's actually (and possible) living there. But not an apartment with only three pcs of shirts and two books.

[@Mukkki]

What? You think so? It looks like nobody really live there. I have a tiny apartment too, but all they have are books and records. And a tiny tiny storage room for 2 people? Where is the place for winter clothes? Where is the shoe rag? Where are cleaning untensils? laundry rack? Towels, bedclothes? There is literally nothing there for a real living for 2 people. Screams fake for me in my opinion lol

[@knycxjourneying]

​@@Mukkki Oh check out many other videos on this channel you will be surprised that they have money to renovate the entire house, but apparently, they have a "kitchen" that is obviously impossible to do any cooking, and a bathroom with no towels and toilet paper, just a bottle of Aseop, and closet that basically has three items of clothing. I am always confused after watching.

[@Mukkki]

@@knycxjourneying yeah ok.. that sounds suspicious.. I think these are just projects? Hm.. or this "home" is just to stay for a few days.. like a vacation apartment

[@knycxjourneying]

@@Mukkki May be they shot the house right after the renovation is done, so it's like a model house - everything looks new, dreamy, and perfect. Give it two weeks, they will turn back to "how they should be"

[@knycxjourneying]

@@Mukkki my point is, there is no way you can live like this in real life. Unless you are planning to buy one roll of toilet paper per supermarket run because there's simply no room for any extra.

[@scottpeterson7500]

Definitely designed to be lived in and not just look good in a magazine. I love that space for music and books is given priority ❤️

[@nikitasaratov687]

this place is so warm and cozy looking without feeling stuffy, I love it

[@hannacarter9782]

It’s beautiful and so well thought out, i love the loft and using the bathroom and wardrobe as a sound insulator from neighbours is genius. Personally I would have put wall cupboards up in the kitchen as it provides so much more storage (for anything not just kitchen items) without taking up any floor space.

[@willybones3890]

Yep or even a couple shelves off to the right side.

[@ixlnxs]

I totally understand you on the wall cupboards but he made the right choice. It would have looked cluttered from the couch and now it looks zen, as Parisians like to say. Having just moved from a 32m² flat to a 80 m² flat, we were amazed at how many things we discarded because they never served any purpose.

[@moua0067]

Having their grandparents' furniture there makes me so happy.

[@Sleepingenthusiast]

I was mesmerized by the cinematography in this video… and the apartment just gives me some nostalgic feeling, I just want to sit quietly on the green loveseat and stare out the window.

[@tonyawms3186]

Y'all did an outstanding job renovating your apartment. 😊 👏 BRAVO! 👏 You should be proud of your designs.

[@onlyonelens]

I really like how this one demonstrates that it’s about achieving set-out principles and not necessarily a particular fashionable or expensive set of materials or aesthetic. As much as I really love the higher-end features on this channel, this one is inspiring in a different way, and as others have noted, feels more personal.

[@brendasnow8255]

I love it. I’m 80, but still would like to live in GB or Europe, and can easily imagine myself living in a home such as this-even climbing the stairs to the loft. Great use of space and materials.

[@sabejreid2072]

Great Brenda, I'm in Melbourne Aus. We love it here but I still miss my Home in the UK and Amsterdam in particular. Go well.

[@thecourageousorange]

GB=Great Britain? if it is then it's in Europe. either way. I really like living in Europe. it's lots on interesting architecture and styles in all the different countries.

[@rachelcookie321]

Great Britain is in Europe

[@Kat-zi2tb]

Um GB is in Europe... Yeah not sure if you will actually know or tell difference where you are. You may get flight to some random country lol.

[@brendasnow8255]

Yeah, I actually do know that. Have visited GB many times, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and France. Wasn’t thinking when I commented on a vlog about apartments, but people gotta troll.

[@maurobrundu]

Very interesting and genuine architecture

[@heizecherie6518]

This feels home for some reason. The simplicity ❤️

[@Youreonlymassive]

Love what he said at the end about combining small living spaces with large public spaces, and stopping urban spread.

[@Youvegotredonyou-BeckyChase]

All I can say, is that I LOVE that you used elements from your grandparents house! I wish I could have done the same. Our grandparents, to me, are the most important people in our lives!

[@liamjagoe260]

this is a sweet sentiment, but MOST? what about our parents? our children? our spouses? our dearest friends? I mean, personally my neighbour's dogs are more important to me than my grandparents

[@Youvegotredonyou-BeckyChase]

@@liamjagoe260 well obviously we all lead different lives. And those people in our lives play different roles. Hence why I said "to me"...my parents were alcoholic abusive assholes and my grandparents picked up their slack! Not every family dynamic is the same!

[@eva-w]

Sooooo true! I've always envied people who grew up close to their grandparents and could form close bonds. My Dad's parents passed away too early for me to remember, my mom's lived too far away and we'd only see each other a couple times a year...

[@Youvegotredonyou-BeckyChase]

@@eva-w I am so sorry about that. My grandparents were very special people. My grandfather passed the day after my youngest daughter's 5th birthday. She is now 19. He is still the grandparent she talks about most! We lived with him the last 4 months of his life. He had a stroke and could no longer live alone. My daughter formed a really close bond with him and everytime we drive passed the house she always says "HI Grandpa". He was 91, and although he has a stroke he was full of piss and beans. And he was just genuinely a great man. My grandmother passed 2 months before she was born, if she hadn't, my daughter would have loved her too. We grew up in the same town and my grandmother lived in the same house her whole life. So we saw them all the time. My other set of grandparents, my grandpa passed at the age of 42, so I never met him, and my grandmother lived in Colorado most my life, and she was just batshit crazy lol!

[@twicebang4556]

@@Youvegotredonyou-BeckyChase I’m sorry to hear that, but you seem to have some lovely and heartwarming memories of them!

[@faluffel]

Easily best NTS episode I have seen! So much heart and functionality in a very achievable design.

[@katycanino1566]

I love it! So serene, cozy and big at the same time. Great design ideas. 💡

[@rek8193]

Feels like home. Furniture with family history, mismatched and meaningful, and a large open kitchen for gatherings. These are things I value that you don't see at designer Airbnbs.

[@Bbb-qt8th]

I liked how he connected tiny appartment with neighbourhood and city planning. They feed each other. Without enough public and shared spaces, tiny living feels cramped.

[@nancyanneberg403]

Oh,God! This is the best place,outclassing the artsy expensive sleeky squeakyS. Thank you. From somebody who alone has done a 27 room historic Italianate Villa and several old three story homes. Beyond it now in a tiny place that is for seniors In feel I have a humongous home. And always get ideas from these homes. This the most lovely and home.

[@KyleGarnet]

This feels way bigger then japan micro apartments. VERY awesome and inspiring pieces, you made the space feel very spacious.

[@ihogenhuis960]

Beautifully done. Feels bright and airy but still cozy.

[@tricialow217]

No designer furniture and decor, love it!

[@Serviervorschlag-]

The quarter and the apartment look great and very cozy and the apartment is very clean and not so messy as other small rooms. I would love to live there. The surrounding looks like a place before or in the first phase of gentrification and this is pure magic. ❤

[@the_katman2181]

It's small, but it really feels airy and spacious. Very nice.

[@SonniDez]

I think this is beautiful, and I love how many pieces they’ve used that were handed down from relatives. Although personally I think the upper area would benefit greatly from a rug to make it look a little homier and cozy.

[@RennieAsh]

Yes to reduce the hardness of crawling in there :)

[@kh3612]

@SonniDez Also to prevent splinters. 😉

[@brysonwest93]

Possibly so. Perhaps they were daunted the idea of getting a vacuum up there! Lol

[@Halfmoonbaee]

I felt this space looked so perfect, but it was missing something small. Definitely a rug. They probably didn’t want it to feel too closed in with a rug. It looks more open without one, but I would definitely want a rug.

[@isabellajones8535]

You are looking now at interior decor items. This video shows the structure. Interior items are very much a matter of personal tastes. Loose rugs would be nice for winter, but rolled up and put away for summer I think.

[@bryngarrity5548]

There are quite a few "never too smalls" where i think 'i could live there, i guess.' There are almost NONE where i think 'wow I WANT to live there!' This apartment is so lovely! It is well designed and warm and cozy. Well done!

[@tugwilsond8907]

I love this! This has to be one of the best compact living areas I’ve seen. It’s beautiful

[@marthaolmsted4029]

This is a sweet space and clearly a labor of love and common interest for the couple. I agree that an apartment building with small spaces like this as the main dwelling in combination with ample living spaces for everyone to share, is ideal. Naturally one hopes for good neighbors.

[@hellosheila]

This is the perfect example of what someone can do with a bit of creativity, in a small space. That apartment is stunning.

[@dr.pastrami5272]

Uh no. This is what an Architect's salary and profession can bring to a small space. A space he bought and owns in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

[@hellosheila]

@@dr.pastrami5272 No, you don't have to be an architect. Go watch a few episodes of Grand Designs, or Tiny Houses. People can do creativity on a budget. What Paris has to do with the comment, I'm not sure.

[@user-td6hf6tk5o]

I'm so impressed that so many apartments on this channel were built hundreds years ago, while in China a building built in 2010 is considered "old“.

[@grenade8572]

In Belgium (the country at the nord of France), a lot of buildings in the citie's center are from the 18th century and first half of the 19th century. In towns you can also find some old buidings. But, out the towns and cities, the buildings are most commonly new. I think we are attached to our history (and some building are protected as a patrimonal heritage), and the cities where always the richiest places (so, with the most beautiful and strongest buildings). So, whe build the new constructions where there is still room : out the cities. :) I think that's something common in all western Europe, even if some people want to live in a building that's brand new.

[@ketrianrenolsin9608]

That is a fabulous renovation. Wonderful use of the space which has transformed it into somewhere fabulous to live.

[@TheLstark]

His voice is so soothing and this apartment is SO warm and lovely

[@a.4172]

i adored how cost-effective this one was, and how they reused many old furniture. looking at this, it's truly something that looks affordable, and not a place only rich people can live in for 2 days a year on vacation

[@xtinafusco]

I love everything he said about living and building sustainably. In cities, this is all you really need as the city itself becomes your extended living room. Beautiful work, I'd like to see more affordable and sustainable renovations like this one!

[@nicolerichter8047]

beautiful, feels truely minimalist and in the spirit of sustainable living, small urban spaces. recycling etc. 💜💜💜

[@WEEDobite]

I actually really love this micro apartment. I feel like it is very well thought out and smart. Lots of storage regardless the small size!

[@karakarapi7963]

i love this one! very clean and economical but the thrifted furniture/fixings make it feel warm and lived-in. the only thing i'd change if it were my space is that i'd extend the rail the ladder is on so i could fulfill my sliding ladder bookcase dreams