Eyes Wide Open

Eyes Wide Open: Midi-Pyrénées

If you're a lover of big spaces and chic, minimalist decor, this just might be the place for you. Right in the heart of the city, only a hundred metres or so from the Capitole Metro Station, this smart apartment is a pretty striking place – think towering ceilings, tall windows and monochrome tones, all with a slightly industrial edge. Part of a period building overlooking the rue de la Pomme, it's been freshly renovated to create a comfortable and contemporary home.

A large, open living room is the star of the show here, with twin windows, exposed structural steels and a comfy L-shaped sofa. And while the tucked-away kitchen isn't huge, it's perfectly kitted out for cooking light meals. There are two main bedrooms and a third room which offers some flexibility of use. With a desk and a sofa bed, it can accommodate another guest in comfort or be used as a separate office. And that's not all. Off one of the bedrooms, there's a small private terrace so you can even grab some fresh air with your coffee and croissant each morning.

Home truths:
*Please note that this is a city centre location and you'll hear all the usual sounds from cars, people and businesses – the double glazing does a pretty good of soundproofing though
*The home office doubles as a third bedroom – it's off the living room, separated by sliding doors with a curtain to pull across for privacy
*You access the terrace via the main bedroom
*There's a lift in the building
*Although you'll have two bathrooms, there's only one toilet here