LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
REAL ESTATE
KENZO HOUSE
In the French capital’s trendy 11th arrondissement, a four-level
contemporary residence with an authentic Japanese garden
built by the late Paris-based couturier Kenzo Takada in 1988
and redesigned in 2017 by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma
offers a unique opportunity to live in a work of art.
price upon request
JESSICA HALL
PHOTOGRAPHY: JIMMY COHRSSEN
Nestled in the historic Bastille district of Paris, Kenzo House stands as a hidden gem, offering a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the bustling City of Light. This 13,778-square-foot, four-story residence, tucked away within the courtyard of an 18th-century residential building, captivates with its seamless fusion of authentic Japanese design and contemporary architectural brilliance. With its lush gardens, serene koi pond, and thoughtfully curated interiors, Kenzo House embodies a Zen-like oasis that pays homage to the vision of its late creator, renowned fashion legend Kenzo Takada.
Kenzo Takada, celebrated for his vibrant and eclectic fashion collections, envisioned Kenzo House as a harmonious convergence of Eastern and Western influences. The French-Japanese couturier’s spirited creations brought color and freedom to the fashion world, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. French President Emmanuel Macron aptly described Kenzo’s contribution, stating that he gave us “color and freedom in the choice of silhouettes.” Kenzo House is a testament to his artistic vision, a physical embodiment of his love for nature, art, and cultural diversity.
“Kenzo House is without rival in Paris,” says Agent and Representative Marie-Hélène Lundgreen of Belles demeures de France, an international subsidiary of Daniel Féau Conseil Immobilier, Christie’s International Real Estate’s exclusive affiliate in Paris. “Built 35 years ago by Kenzo Takada and masterfully updated for the 21st century by architect Kengo Kuma, it is a world apart.”
Architect Kengo Kuma, known for his mastery of grand and intimate designs, undertook a meticulous renovation of Kenzo House in 2017. His acclaimed portfolio includes notable projects like the Japan National Stadium and the Suntory Museum of Art in Tokyo. Kuma’s sensitivity to the interplay between nature and architecture shines through in Kenzo House, creating a space that fosters a deep and intimate connection with the surrounding environment. By employing traditional Japanese building materials such as stone, bamboo, ceramic, and wood, Kuma achieves unique transparency, allowing natural light to bathe the interiors and inviting the outdoors in.
Kenzo House’s redesign revolved around creating an authentic Japanese house and garden, epitomizing the tranquility and beauty of the East. Kuma’s careful reconfiguration ensured that every room offered unobstructed views of the meticulously landscaped gardens centered around a serene koi pond and an elegant cherry tree. The exterior facade boasts cedar shingles, teak, and clay, providing a warm and textured ambiance. Inside, French oak louvers, beams, and floors complement the original wood finishes, harmonizing the East-West aesthetic seamlessly. Including a Japanese pavilion featuring a traditional tea-ceremony room, tatami mats, and shoji sliding doors adds an extra touch of authenticity, immersing residents and guests in the serenity of Japanese culture.
Kenzo House offers a wealth of luxurious features, ensuring a truly elevated living experience. The
residence comprises four bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom and dressing room, offering privacy and comfort. Two reception rooms and two dining rooms provide ample space for entertaining, while a music room, study, and fitness room cater to various lifestyle preferences. An elevator connects all four floors for added convenience, enhancing accessibility throughout the residence. Additionally, three self-contained studio apartments cater to the needs of staff members, ensuring seamless assistance when required. Furthermore, two private parking spaces alleviate any concerns regarding parking in the city center.
Kenzo House stands as a testament to the creative brilliance of Kenzo Takada and the architectural mastery of Kengo Kuma. This Zen-like oasis in the heart of Paris offers a rare opportunity to experience the serenity and beauty of an authentic Japanese house and garden while still enjoying the vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city. With its seamless fusion of East and West, Kenzo House serves as a haven of tranquility, inviting residents and guests to embark on a sensory journey that transcends time and place.
Lundgreen affirms, “You’re not just buying a property with Kenzo House, but, rather, a piece of art that inspires serenity and the art of living.
Kenzo House is currently offered for sale, price upon request.
For more information or to schedule a private showing,
please contact:
Marie-Hélène Lundgreen
Belles demeures de France
T: +33 1 84 79 63 34
W: https://belles-demeures-de-france.com