As I wrote earlier in Paris: Day 5, I was able to meet up with architectural watercolor artists Andrew Zega and Bernd Dams in their stylish Paris apartment.
Long an admirer and collector of their work, I was looking forward to meeting them and could barely contain my excitement walking up the stairs of the 17th century building to their apartment.
The building has been skillfully restored, leaving the best of the original features while bringing it up to date.
The beautiful and large apartment is obviously the home of scholars as books are the focus as opposed to the art which I expected. 
Built in shelves cover many of the walls while still more books are piled on numerous other surfaces. I felt right at home as I can relate to this in my own apartment!
Andrew and Bernd have done a lot of reconfiguration in the apartment during their years there, such as these columns topped with urns which seperate the living room from the entry.
This final configuration wasn't exactly their original plan for the space, as evidenced by this watercolor. Originally they had planned on a more architectural solution but over time they abandoned it for a lighter touch which I think makes the space feel larger.
Bookshelves continue in the alcove off the living room which contains their reading desk for the hours of research they put into their pieces.
A small den off the alcove contains the tv, computer desk and their collection of architectural etchings.Be sure to check out their fascinating blog Noted which they update weekly. You'll always learn something new!
Hi, Stefan - Thanks for pointing me to Noted! I've just spent my lunch hour pouring over their interesting and beautiful postings ...
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely space. As if it is not enough to be in Paris, the classical elements and lack of fussiness are dreamy.
ReplyDeleteI am a big fan of their fabulous watercolors, so it is particularly interesting to see their chic apartment.
ReplyDeleteFantastic. Just fantastic. Thanks for this great post--you constantly outdo yourself.
ReplyDeleteNice work if you can get it! How I envy you!
ReplyDeleteStunning! What a gift to visit their space and meet these beautiful old souls! :D
ReplyDeleteTerri
Ah lovely! It is always so fun to see where people work. I also have a book problem. An elderly aunt who sends me books with sweet notes. I love each one but the corners of every room are stacked with "leaning towers of literature." And what is worse is that I can't rightly keep up with reading them all so I've only read half of all of them! Oh the shame... wonderful tour and I'm so glad you enjoyed your trip!!
ReplyDeleteI am such a fan of antique black and white architectural prints, but these watercolors are fabulous. What a treat to visit their beautiful apartment!! Wishing you all the best in the New Year~
ReplyDeleteStefan - Wow, this post was such a treat. The interiors are so personal and beautiful. Love how you started off by taking us up the staircase. Having just looked at this month's international edition of Elle Decor, I would say this apartment tops all the ones they featured.
ReplyDeleteBooks, books, books- I would feel right at home. I have a ten foot by six foot bookshelf and ran out of room a while ago.
ReplyDeleteChic apartment in a stunning building- thanks for the treat!
Stefan
ReplyDeleteI was so happy to read your post about meeting Andrew and Bernd. They are friends of ours and we always make it a priority of seeing them when we're in Paris. We also had the great pleasure of visiting their apartment and seeing some of their finest watercolors up close and personal. We ended up buying the Chateau de Clagny which hangs with much pride in our house. They are truly inspiring and as you can imagine their work has had such a tremendous influence on my own. Next time you go to Paris be sure to tell me and I will meet you. We would have great fun.
Best
Michael