Galilée is a minimalist apartment located in Paris, France, designed by Bella-Pia Richard, in collaboration with Thomas Geerlings of Framework Studio. Upon encountering the space, the architects were struck by its grandeur—spacious with high ceilings and adorned with arches, which they decided to retain in their design. The original woodwork, which matched the new materials used, was also preserved to maintain the character of the apartment. Their approach was to restore the apartment’s original allure while updating it to meet modern living standards. This process involved a comprehensive redesign of the layout and flow to better suit the lifestyle of their clients. The team placed great emphasis on the interaction between client and designer, believing that effective communication is crucial to the success of a project.

The design integrates key elements of Haussmannian architecture, adapted to the constraints of the space and the personal preferences of the occupants. The primary living area, a 70-square-meter space comprising an entrance hall, living room, dining room, and kitchen, serves as the heart of the apartment. The remainder of the layout includes three separate bedroom areas, each equipped with its own bathroom, toilet, and dressing room. In their renovation, Richard and Geerlings aimed to showcase contemporary craftsmanship without falling into the trap of merely replicating traditional Haussmannian style. They sought to create a unique blend of French and Dutch design elements, ensuring that every detail was meticulously planned to craft a timeless interior.