The 1970s: a decade of bold experimentation and playful design, particularly in France. This era saw a shift away from the rigid conventions of mid-century modernism, embracing a more relaxed and ironically glamorous aesthetic. And who better to embody this spirit than the Parisian design duo Hauvette & Madani?
Hauvette & Madani’s story began at the prestigious École Camondo, where their friendship blossomed into a professional partnership. After graduating, they embarked on a bold mission: to carve their own path, refusing to work for established design firms. Their unwavering commitment to their vision has propelled them to become two of the most sought-after young designers in Paris.
Their portfolio boasts an impressive list of projects, including the newly opened Hotel Wallace and the self-produced Achille 1970 sofa. But it’s their approach to design that truly sets them apart. “It’s quite instinctive,” explains Hauvette, “We don’t really have a process. We work on everything together. It’s about the materials we love and the vision of our clients.” Madani adds with a smile, “It’s basically just us criticizing each other.”
A Signature Style: Where 70s Charm Meets Parisian Sophistication
Hauvette & Madani have cultivated a style that’s instantly recognizable: a blend of easygoing elegance and Parisian chic. Their designs often feature rich, lacquered wood details, marble finishes, and cult vintage furniture sourced from Parisian design galleries. They masterfully weave a harmonious palette of cream, brown, and a spectrum of beige throughout their projects.
Take, for example, a recent two-story penthouse in the Trocadero neighborhood of Paris. The sitting room features a set of Paulin chairs in creamy white wool, bathed in the warmth of floor-to-ceiling paneling stained a deep chestnut brown. This clever use of wood paneling has become a signature element for the duo.
“Every time we do a new project, we always try to find a new type of wood,” explains Madani. “We work with incredible craftsmen here in Paris who are always bringing us new shades and new stains.”
Pushing Boundaries: From Parisian Lofts to Balearic Escapes
Hauvette & Madani aren’t afraid to push the boundaries of their signature style. In a pied-à-terre in the La Marais district, they transformed a tiny loft apartment into a stunning space. The centerpiece: a winding wooden staircase, a testament to their ability to create captivating focal points.
“When the owners decided to buy the apartment, they were worried that the bedroom would be an ugly secondary zone,” explains Hauvette. “So we decided to create this link between the spaces — and what gives more importance to a space than a beautiful staircase?”
Their love for wood extends beyond Parisian apartments. On the Spanish island of Ibiza, they transformed a nondescript penthouse into a lush, tropical oasis. Miles of plaster-white built-in sofas, faux ceiling beams, rattan seating, and blocky wooden furniture shipped in from Indonesia create a sense of Balearic chic, proving that their design expertise extends far beyond the Parisian landscape.
A Legacy of Modern Glamour: Hauvette & Madani’s enduring influence
Hauvette & Madani are more than just designers; they are curators of a unique aesthetic that embraces the spirit of the 70s while remaining firmly rooted in contemporary design. Their projects are not simply spaces; they are immersive experiences, each telling a story through their use of materials, textures, and colors. With their commitment to quality craftsmanship and an unwavering passion for design, Hauvette & Madani are poised to leave a lasting mark on the world of interior design.
