A successful merging of the old and the new, the Saint Paul Apartment takes full advantage of its interior contradictions. The one-bedroom space is housed in the attic of an 18th-century building in Paris' historic Le Marais district, and sports a neutral palette that lets the home's details shine. Those details include natural rafters that command attention thanks to the white walls and ceiling, a sleeping area separated by a steel and glass wall, and a wall of solid walnut panels that hides storage space, a dressing room, laundry, and bathroom. The result is an impressive space that feels much larger than you'd expect given its small size.

Photos: Alexis Cottin & Julien Fernandez / Margaux Beja