The Seamstress' Daydream

The Seamstress' Daydream: Île-de-France

Though you’re in a quiet neighbourhood, this townhouse still sits within the central circle of Paris. In the surrounding streets, you’ve got charming neighbourhood bistros serving typically French cuisine, parks for long walks and two Metro stops – Picpus and Bel Air – within a five-minute walk. From here, it’s around half an hour on the metro to the sights of central Paris and this peaceful part of town is a delight to return to afterwards.

Housed in a former textile factory, this townhouse is brimming with character at every turn. The host is an architect, and it shows in the careful restoration of original features and decor touches that bring the building’s former use to life. First of all, the open living area is decked out like a 1920s burlesque club with a vintage fruit machine and retro signage on the walls. The quartz-topped kitchen enjoys a sunny spot by the window and is all provincial charm with a Belfast sink and bespoke wine rack. Then there are the bedrooms, book-lined and brimming with oil portraits and antiques.

The icing on the cake has to be the three levels of outdoor terraces, scattered with pot plants and with dining beneath a parasol for hot city days.

Home truths:
*Access is via a shared courtyard where there is parking for cars and bicycles
*Split over three levels, this home may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*Charging for electric vehicles is available