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Cyrus Ardalan transforms Paris DJ's apartment with boat-like plywood interior

architecture-design · 2026-05-22

In the 9th arrondissement of Paris, architect Cyrus Ardalan transformed a 70-square-metre corner apartment for DJ Louise Chen, her partner Silas Swinstead, and their son. During his initial visit, Ardalan was inspired by the sensation of being at the front of a ship, leading him to incorporate porthole-style windows, white-painted parquet flooring resembling a deck, and a central corridor finished with tinted plywood and circular sliding hatches. To enhance light and rooftop vistas, the living area was opened up, featuring gently rounded walls reminiscent of a boat cabin. A striking glass paste mosaic arch separates the kitchen, which boasts stainless steel cabinets and reddish-brown tiles. Additionally, Ardalan crafted a geometric plywood cabinet for Chen's vinyl collection, complemented by furniture from Eileen Gray, Charlotte Perriand, and Sabine Marcelis. Photography by Ludovic Balay.

Key facts

  • Cyrus Ardalan renovated a 70-square-metre apartment in Paris's 9th arrondissement.
  • The apartment is home to DJ Louise Chen, brand strategist Silas Swinstead, and their son.
  • The design was inspired by the feeling of standing at the prow of a ship.
  • The central corridor is clad in tinted plywood with circular porthole-style openings.
  • Parquet flooring was painted white to recall boat decking.
  • A glass paste mosaic arch delineates the kitchen.
  • Ardalan designed a geometric plywood cabinet for Chen's vinyl collection.
  • Furniture includes pieces by Eileen Gray, Charlotte Perriand, and Sabine Marcelis.

Entities

Artists

  • Cyrus Ardalan
  • Louise Chen
  • Silas Swinstead
  • Eileen Gray
  • Charlotte Perriand
  • Sabine Marcelis
  • Ludovic Balay

Institutions

  • Dezeen

Locations

  • Paris
  • France
  • 9th arrondissement

Sources