Karl Lagerfeld’s Futuristic Apartment is Minimal and Cold

Photos Courtesy of Karl Lagerfeld Official

German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld is as known for his snarky attitude, white hair and black shades as much as he is for being the creative director for Chanel. Usually pretty private — he only just recently fessed up to being born in 1935 — he decided to open his Paris apartment to May’s issue of French Architectural Digest. If you were expecting an explosion of color and accents, you’ll be disappointed because this apartment is as stark and minimalist as you can get without living on an actual science fiction movie set. Taking a peek into someone’s living space always gives you an insight to their psyche and if his home says anything, it definitely says he likes to keep it simple.

Located in the Quai Voltaire in Paris, the apartment is certainly attractive. However it is so in a way that’s interesting to look at; it’s uncomfortably stark — at least for me. Even the extensive bookcase, fitting some 40,000 books, is too cold for my taste. According to Architectural Digest, the building dates back to 1820 and has apparently gone through two and a half years of renovations. Filled with glass and metal accents, the home is striking in a futuristic way and features retractable glass walls that open up the living space.

“I wanted an apartment with glass and transparency everywhere,” says Lagerfeld. “And there is no color here, because I am constantly surrounded by color. I prefer to live in a neutral environment.”

Stainless steel can be found everywhere, including the kitchen which is made solely from the reflective material. One of the only places warmth can be seen and felt is the bedroom, which contrasts the bed’s Richelieu embroidery and old quilt covering with the metallic walls and glass partition that hides a television. Of the furniture pieces within, Lagerfeld chose ones by Marc Newson, Jasper Morrison, Established & Sons, Martin Szekely, Jean-Marie Massaud and Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec.