French Decor Transforms Sydney Mansion into Parisian Dream

From the Seine to Sydney: A Luxurious Home Makeover Celebrating Timeless Parisian Style

Set above a shimmering bay in Sydney’s south, a grand home has been transformed into a dreamy escape that could sit proudly along the Seine. This stunning mansion, infused with timeless French decor, has been completely reimagined into a Parisian-inspired sanctuary. Though the Eiffel Tower doesn’t peek through the windows, the crafted curves, marble detailing, and refined palette transport you to a world of classical elegance and modern luxury-rooted deeply in the soul of French design.

French decor stylish living room with hand-made furniture in pastel colors with panoramic windows looking over the bay

A Bold Beginning

When designers Holly Andrianakos and Madi McTigue of Studio Albus first laid eyes on the property in 2022, the home was far from the sophisticated oasis it is today. Constructed in the 1990s, it exuded a dated kind of opulence. Shiny black and white surfaces clashed with glitzy gold trims, crystals, and overly bold mosaics. Although visually striking, the interior felt disconnected from its beautiful coastal location – and even more so from the essence of French decor.

The bones of the house were generous: three spacious levels with expansive living zones, a leading suite, additional bedrooms, a gym, and even a rumpus room. But what it lacked in warmth and cohesion, it would soon gain in Parisian charm.

Bullnouse marble interior design element incorporated into the living room, French decor style, with natural materials and color schemes, wood and stone, calm and peaceful living room

The Vision: A Touch of Parisian Elegance

The homeowners dreamed of more than just a renovation – they wanted a complete reinvention. Studio Albus’s brief was clear: deliver an understated and timeless French decor aesthetic that felt both sophisticated and livable. The designers envisioned layered textures, muted tones, and spaces that allowed for intimate family moments and lavish entertaining.

They sought to incorporate in elements of Parisian architecture and atmosphere – think herringbone floors, wainscoting, curves, and luxe materials – while maintaining the relaxed rhythm of a coastal Australian lifestyle. It was about balance: ornate yet approachable, rich yet calming.

Shell style mirror, marble wall side table, hand made flower vases, plenty of day light, French decor style

Transforming Spaces

Living Room: Curves and Comfort

In the living room, angular architecture gave way to inviting curves. The designers introduced soft lines throughout the joinery, stairs, and even the ceilings to mirror the graceful flow of classic interior style. Bullnose detailing played a starring role – seen in the shelves, steps, and marble benchtops. These thoughtful touches softened the look and added a sense of craftsmanship associated with Parisian interiors.

unique lamp, neutral colors, bright and spacious living room, marble elements, natural stone and linen materials, plenty of natural light, panoramic windows, French decor style

Entrance Area: Opening to the View

Perhaps the most dramatic transformation came with the entryway. A previously obstructive wall was removed to reveal a breathtaking view of the bay beyond. This bold move aligned the interior with the outdoor serenity, letting natural light flood in while creating a welcoming flow between spaces. The home’s first impression is of spaciousness and refined French decor harmony.

French decor marble stairs and entrance elements, wide open space, airy and breathing space, openning a stunning view over a bay

Balcony Living Area: Airy and Elegant

Adjacent to the balcony, the living area embraces a casual elegance that aligns with the overarching theme. Custom-made joinery, curved archways, and delicate lighting set the tone for a relaxed yet elegant zone. Venetian plaster, a hallmark of French decor, wraps the walls in texture and quiet luxury.

Fireplace Area: Parisian Library Vibes

The fireplace area on the more formal side of the living space has been transformed into a cozy library-style nook. It’s adorned with sculptural lighting, refined upholstery, and imported French furnishings. A Pierre Augustin Rose sofa and Gubi ‘Pacha’ chairs pair comfort with couture—a perfect representation of French decor at its finest.

French decor style, neutral colors, natural building materials, stone and linen, fireplace in the living room, centered low raise table, unique painting with oil colors, marble elements

Kitchen: Function Meets French Flair

Once closed off, the kitchen is now the vibrant heart of the house. A central marble island is a social hub, inviting conversation and connection. In authentic French decor, even utility areas like the pantry and laundry carry through the same double-bullnose detailing and fluted cabinetry. Including narrow-line fluted glass adds privacy and enhances the room’s tactile richness.

Large and spacious kitchen with marble French decor style island, natural woods and stone, airy space with panoramic windows

Dining Areas: From Formal to Relaxed

This mansion boasts not one but two distinct dining zones. The formal area features a travertine dining table paired with Dimitri Vargas ‘Otto’ chairs – a composition that echoes the grandeur of a Parisian dinner party. Conversely, a more laid-back walnut setting creates an inviting space for casual meals. Both spaces are elevated by artful lighting and the ever-present touch of French decor sensibility.

French decor dining area with spacious sitting, large oval table, natural wood and stone materials, marble elements, panoramic windows, spacious living area, airy and cozy

Bedrooms: Relaxed Refinement

Upstairs, the bedrooms reflect a palette of calming neutrals and sumptuous materials – linen, marble, and oak. The rooms embrace luxury and comfort, delivering what might be described as “lived-in elegance.” The design leans heavily on French decor hallmarks like soft silhouettes, layered textiles, and subtle architectural detailing to make each room feel like a personal retreat.

Wood and stone elements, flower vases and oil painting, bedroom with natural materials in French decor style

Wood and linen elements, natural and neutral colors, large windows with fantastic view, French decor style bedroom

Bathrooms: Spa-Worthy Serenity

Bathrooms in the home serve as serene sanctuaries, awash in marble and soft textures. The emphasis on tactile materials and calming tones brings a sense of quiet indulgence. Brass and brushed nickel fixtures lend a subtle gleam, while arched mirrors and fluted vanities continue the thread of French decor sophistication.

bathroom in soft and natural colors, with marble elements, spacious, with natural lights, handmade light French decor

wide space wood and stone French decor bathroom, cozy bath side

What’s Next? Phase Two of the Parisian Dream

Though the transformation already feels complete, the journey isn’t over. Stage two of the project will see the upper and lower ground levels brought into the same Parisian narrative. A new wellness studio will soon crown the top floor, offering a private oasis for the owner. Below, a bar, wine cellar, game room, and second living area will complete the lower ground floor, promising a final flourish of French decor indulgence and function.

For now, the home stands as a true fusion of two worlds – where Sydney’s coastal calm meets the timeless elegance of Paris. “C’est magnifique,” indeed.

wooden flooring, wooden furniture, marble bullnose French decor elements, oval stone table in the living room

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