Tonnemani

Cassandre Charpentier

• Designers

The story of this 110 m² space in the Saint-Germain area of Paris, is steeped in a rich heritage. Located in the 6th arrondissement, the heart of artistic and literary movements for centuries, the neighbourhood is an emblematic place fuelled by a spirit of freedom and innovation.

Meryl and Simon were truly excited to discover the space: a former sculptor’s studio where the artist worked for many years and spent his last days. Simon Mimoun, co-founder of MERSI explains : «We were immediately fascinated by the atmosphere of the place, so imbued with individuality. The challenge was to preserve the soul of the atelier while introducing the modern comforts needed for contemporary living.”

photo_credit Cassandre Charpentier — Cassandre Charpentier

The main objective for MERSI was to reintroduce light which was sorely lacking in the space. The concept was to bring the outside into the space. The old Parisian canopy was replaced with an operable glass roof, opening onto a redesigned reception area featuring a central island with a kitchen on one side and a bench on the other, further complemented by a mirrored table that reflects the natural light. The owners can now host dinner parties under the Parisian sky, regardless of the weather, and enjoy their terrace during the warm summer nights. After re-imagining the introduction of light (which had a decisive impact on the perception of the dimensions), MERSI undertook a complete restructuring of the former space.

The area was opened up,while exceptional custom-made fittings were integrated,Alongside the reorganisation of the space and its positive flow, MERSI meticulously crafted the identity of the apartment by selecting excetional materials created by artisans and artists. Among these unique pieces is the decorative patina in the kitchen, which creates a subtle cloud-like effect, the panoramic jute fabric wall-covering depicting the Viñales Valley, and the living green wall made from stabilised plants cultivated in hydroponics. The duo also added remarkable decorative objects, thus highlighting the exclusivity of the apartment. An alabaster pendant light illuminates the living room, while a collection of ceramics is displayed in delicately integrated niches. A monumental dried wood totem (found at a flea market in Lille), now takes pride of place in the living space, adding a touch of character.

The uniqueness of the Tonnemani project lies in its being fully equipped while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic, free from unnecessary embellishments. The home theater and the bar are discreetly hidden, as is the air conditioning and the operable glass roof, which blend seamlessly into the architecture of the space. This subtle approach preserves the harmony of the place while offering modern comfort and optimised functionality. Meryl Motyka, co-founder of the agency, concludes: “We played with textures, materials, and various craft techniques to create a simple, timeless interior that’s unlike any other. The 12-month project was complex, but the result is exactly as we envisioned. The entire MERSI team is proud to say that the Tonnemani project has become a signature project for the agency.”