Turning a 1780s Marais duplex into a modern Parisian home
When Mondira and Paul began their search for a home in Paris, they dreamed of something authentic historic charm, central location, and the sense of living in a true Parisian neighborhood.
With the guidance of Kathryn Brown and Emma Skoble, they discovered a rare 1780s duplex apartment tucked into the heart of the Marais.
“From day one, Kathryn and Emma guided us through every step,” explains Paul.
“They connected us with trusted professionals, helped us visualize the project, and made what could have been stressful feel effortless.”
A complete transformation with historic charm
The apartment, located in a building dating back to 1780, required a complete transformation. The project included creating a new en-suite master bathroom, a redesigned kitchen, and fully restored living spaces that balanced modern comfort with 18th-century authenticity.
During the renovation, several hidden challenges emerged — a leaking shower due to the absence of a subfloor, worn wooden beams, and outdated electrical systems. Thanks to Metropolitan Properties Paris (MetParis) network of renovation experts, these surprises were managed with professionalism, transparency, and care.
“We were thrilled with the outcome,” says Paul.
“The process was far easier than we expected. The team handled everything, and we always felt confident in their hands.”
Renovating in Paris: what to expect in 2025
Renovating an apartment in Paris can seem complex — particularly in historic districts like the Marais — but with the right team, it can be an inspiring and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re restoring a Haussmannian flat or modernizing a pied-à-terre, knowing the right benchmarks helps set realistic expectations.
Below is a 2025–2026 guide to renovation costs in the Paris market:
Renovating in Paris: what to expect in 2025
While renovating in Paris can seem complex, the right guidance makes all the difference.
Below is a 2025 – 2026 benchmark of renovation costs, updated for the Paris market:
Type of Renovation | Budget Range (€/m²) | Description |
Light Refresh | 1 000 – 2 000 € | Painting, refinishing surfaces, small repairs, staging |
Mid-Range Renovation | 2 000 – 3 000 € | Major updates (kitchen, bathroom, flooring, partial reconfiguration) |
Full / High-End Renovation | 3 000 – 4 000 €+ | Structural work, full redesign, luxury finishes, complete modernization |
Behind the walls: managing surprises in Paris renovations
As with many historic Paris properties, the project revealed a few unexpected findings.
During demolition, the renovation team discovered no subfloor beneath the existing shower, which had caused a long-standing leak to the apartment below. A new reinforced subfloor and vapor barrier were installed, and all plumbing was replaced.
When adding the new master bathroom, several centuries-old joists were found to need replacement, and a structural engineer was brought in to reinforce the floor with steel supports. The team also upgraded the electrical system, repaired two roof leaks, and later installed new double-glazed windows for soundproofing and energy efficiency.
The result is a space that preserves original stone walls and beams while introducing sleek, modern finishes — a perfect reflection of Paris itself: timeless, layered, and beautifully livable.
A trusted partner for international buyers
At MetParis, renovation is more than construction it’s about helping clients find, purchase, and transform their dream homes in Paris with confidence and creativity.
“People buy property in Paris so they can enjoy it,” says Kathryn Brown. “Our mission is to make that process smooth, inspiring, and fun — from the first viewing to the final flourish.”
Whether you’re seeking a Marais apartment renovation, a Left Bank restoration, or a turnkey Paris investment, Emma Skoble and Kathryn Brown ensure every step from acquisition to completion is seamless.
With expert guidance, trusted local partners, and an eye for design and detail, MetParis turns even the most historic spaces into homes you’ll love for a lifetime.
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