The Motorcyclist

A six-minute walk from Saint-Paul metro station, Le Village Saint-Paul certainly lives up to its name. While it’s set in the central 4th arrondissement, there’s a tranquil, village-like feel to this small region – but with a huge personality. From baroque churches to hip restaurants, history and modernity combine to create a unique place, as does this striking duplex apartment.

In a 17th-century townhouse three minutes from the banks of the Seine, your life is about to become a Parisian movie (not just because this building has been used as a filming location). After ascending the grand staircase, your hand gliding up the wrought-iron railings, step into scenes of pure creativity and originality.

Something between a cottage, apartment, and palace, this home really knows how to impress. We were immediately struck by the rustic timber beams, to match glossy wooden floors and a charmingly creaky spiral staircase. Shelves upon shelves of the host’s books line the walls, while vintage motorbikes sit alongside. And to add glamour to this eclectic mix, a glistening chandelier sparkles above. As you head to the second floor, the country-like feel of this village comes to life through distressed furniture, more huge beams, and cosy bedrooms in the eaves. Bohemian Paris at its finest.

Home truths:
*As this is a duplex, you'll need to climb stairs to get around the apartment (although there is lift access to reach your floor of the building)
*This historic home has steep stairs and narrow corridors, as well as some low, sloped ceilings
*Some of the beds are very low to the ground
*You'll need to go through the third bedroom to access the fourth bedroom
*There's a dedicated workspace, plus laptop-friendly spots such as the dining table
*Private parking isn't available, but the Sully-Morland, metro stop is only a three-minute walk
*The entrance and courtyard are shared, not private to your home