In a 32-square-meter apartment in Marseille, a once-neglected space now serves as a functional home that balances light, flow, and individuality. The project, named Chez Joe, was led by interior designer Benoit Palas of Maison Palas. He drew inspiration from the bold geometry of La Grande Motte—a futurist resort town on the French Mediterranean—and the experimental spirit of 1960s design.
Curved openings replace doors
The apartment’s layout emphasizes movement and natural illumination, replacing traditional doors with carved and curved openings. A small circular cutout in the hallway provides a permanent light source for the once-dark entrance. During the day, sunlight fills the space; at night, a Louis Poulsen PH5 pendant, framed by the opening, takes over.
An arched transition connects the entrance to the living area, leading to the most striking feature: a large circular threshold into the bedroom. Bright yellow curtains frame the opening, offering privacy while maintaining an open feel.
Affordable materials with bold character
Instead of costly finishes, Palas chose simple, budget-friendly materials to add texture and personality. The kitchen’s orange-tiled splashback and lively yellow Formica countertop contrast with the white IKEA cabinets below. “The rest of the kitchen is colorful enough,” he said.
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The living room wall features a textured cement finish that mimics tiling, reflecting light throughout the day. This method keeps expenses low while ensuring the space feels lively and inviting.
Storage combines display and concealment. Recessed shelves and carved niches blend into the architecture, showcasing books and decorative pieces. In the kitchen, Mediterranean-style niches above the sink hold colorful dishes, while appliances like the dishwasher remain hidden. A repurposed stainless steel unit in the living area doubles as wall-mounted storage, with curved niches for selective displays.
The bedroom’s walk-in closet removes bulk, keeping the area uncluttered. The bed stands out, wrapped in Gucci-branded wallpaper and sealed with clear varnish. This choice merges luxury with practicality, enhanced by IKEA VARMBLIXT reading lamps that provide a warm glow at night.
A fixed dining table and sculptural details
The kitchen’s dining setup is built into the layout. A wall-mounted table sits between two windows beneath a statement pendant, maximizing sunlight. Its curved edges ease movement, while a pair of orange stools tucked beneath match the kitchen’s color scheme.
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The design succeeds by balancing simplicity and character. Every detail—whether a splash of color, a geometric opening, or a textured surface—serves a clear purpose. Small spaces can feel both practical and full of life when carefully planned.
Chez Joe avoids overcrowding. The design shapes space rather than merely filling it. The circular bedroom threshold, for instance, draws light deeper into the apartment while creating separation without closing off the room. Storage solutions hide clutter without losing personality. Small homes need not sacrifice style or comfort, but they demand thoughtful choices.
Photography by Lisa Martens Carillo shows how these elements come together, revealing a home that feels both deliberate and natural.
