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For the design-conscious traveler, the Saint-Germain I suite by HIGHSTAY is the ultimate Parisian residence. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to inhabit the private world of a fashion legend, preserving the exact 2,690-square-foot footprint of Karl Lagerfeld’s personal office while integrating ultra-luxury amenities like a private hammam and sauna.
Throughout his illustrious career, the world watched Karl Lagerfeld’s every move on the runway, yet little focus was ever really placed on the intimate environments where his ideas actually took shape. Tucked away in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a neighborhood synonymous with intellectualism and chic Parisian life, lies a space that was, for years, off-limits to the public. This wasn't just another apartment; it was Lagerfeld’s private bureau—a multi-level sanctuary where the "Kaiser" of fashion spent his most creative hours.
What is the Saint-Germain I apartment exactly? Today, it stands as a 2,690-square-foot luxury rental in Paris, meticulously converted from the late designer's private office. Managed by HIGHSTAY, the residence bridges the gap between a historical time capsule and a modern luxury oasis. It is a rare example of a designer home office renovation that respects the ghost of the past while providing the comforts of the future.
The Design Language: Where Space-Age Meets Classic Opulence
Stepping into the Saint-Germain I suite feels like walking into a curated vision of the late 1990s and early 2000s—an era Lagerfeld helped define. The interior design doesn't lean on the typical Parisian "haussmannien" tropes of gilded mirrors and ornate crown molding. Instead, it embraces a sleek, "Space-Age" aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and incredibly forward-thinking.
The materials used throughout the space tell a story of contrast. You’ll find polished and patinated steel sitting alongside dark-toned wood paneling, creating a mood that is both industrial and warm. The ceilings are often mirrored, a signature Lagerfeld touch that doubles the visual volume of the rooms and plays with light in a way that feels almost cinematic.
One of the most striking elements preserved in the conversion is the custom steel library built-ins. Lagerfeld was a legendary bibliophile, and these "sculptural storage" units once held thousands of volumes. Today, they serve as a dramatic backdrop for the living area, reminding guests of the intellectual rigor that fueled Lagerfeld’s creative process. The pixelated patterns and capsule-like design elements found in the cabinetry reflect the early digital influence of the turn of the millennium, a period when Lagerfeld was deeply fascinated by the intersection of technology and fashion.
Architectural Masterpiece: The Sculptural Staircase
If the libraries are the soul of the apartment, the staircase is undoubtedly its spine. But who designed the Saint-Germain I interior to make it so architecturally distinct? The space features original architectural fit-outs designed by Karl Lagerfeld himself, but the centerpiece is a custom sculptural staircase created in partnership with the renowned Australian designer Marc Newson.
The staircase is more than just a functional transition between floors; it is a work of art. Its curvilinear forms and metallic finish evoke a sense of fluid movement, contrasting sharply with the structured, linear nature of the surrounding bookshelves. Standing at the base of this staircase, guests can also admire the 'La tête dans les nuages' (Head in the Clouds) sculpture by Laurence Perratzi, a piece that perfectly captures the whimsical yet sophisticated spirit of the residence.
"To stay here is to experience the 'total work of art' that Lagerfeld championed. Every curve of the Newson staircase and every inch of the steel paneling was curated to reflect a specific, uncompromising vision of modern luxury." — Ivy Chen, Interior Design & Decor Editor
Living the Lagerfeld Lifestyle: Luxury Amenities & Layout
The transition from a private office to a HIGHSTAY Paris luxury rental required a delicate touch. The challenge was to introduce the comforts of a high-end hotel without disturbing the 100% original spatial configuration that Lagerfeld maintained until his passing in 2019.
The suite is intelligently organized across multiple levels:
- The Entry Level: Designed for entertaining, featuring a grand dining room and the primary living area dominated by the steel libraries.
- The Lower Level: Home to a professional-grade kitchen and a dedicated wellness suite.
- The Upper Level: A sanctuary for rest, containing the sleeping quarters.
What amenities are included in Lagerfeld's converted office? The multi-level suite features two expansive en-suite bedrooms, a private hammam, and a sauna—transforming the workspace into a true "oasis" for relaxation. The kitchen is not just a place to cook; it’s a sleek, monochromatic space designed for high-end catering or intimate wine tastings.
Property at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Square Footage | 2,690 sq. ft. |
| Levels | 3 (Multi-level configuration) |
| Bedrooms | 2 En-suite Bedrooms |
| Wellness Facilities | Private Hammam & Sauna |
| Signature Features | Marc Newson Staircase, Steel Library |
| Location | Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris |
The Context: Office-to-Home Conversions in Modern Paris
The Saint-Germain I project is a flagship example of a growing trend in urban design: adaptive reuse. In historic districts like Saint-Germain, where new construction is almost impossible, converting iconic commercial or private office spaces into residential havens is the new frontier of luxury real estate.
This Lagerfeld private office conversion succeeds because it doesn't try to erase the building's history. By preserving 100% of the original built-ins, HIGHSTAY has allowed the "office" DNA to remain palpable. You can still see where the massive desks would have sat, and the lighting is still tuned to the precision required for sketching haute couture. This balance between cultural preservation and modern residential standards is what makes the property a "legendary transition" in the world of interior design.
Beyond the Walls: The HIGHSTAY Experience
Booking a stay at the Saint-Germain I suite is about more than just the four walls; it is about immersing oneself in the "Karl Itinerary." As the curator of this experience, HIGHSTAY provides guests with a roadmap to Lagerfeld’s Paris. This includes preferred access to his favorite haunts, such as the legendary Café de Flore for a morning espresso or the Maison du Caviar for a decadent dinner.
The residence functions as a gallery, where every hallway and corner has been curated to reflect the sophisticated, global lifestyle of its former occupant. It is an invitation to live like a fashion icon, if only for a few nights.
FAQ
Can I still see Karl Lagerfeld's original furniture in the suite?
While the movable furniture has been updated to provide contemporary comfort for guests, the permanent architectural fit-outs—including the Marc Newson staircase, the steel library shelving, and the wall paneling—are 100% original to Lagerfeld's tenure.
Is the Saint-Germain I suite suitable for families?
The suite features two spacious en-suite bedrooms and expansive living areas, making it suitable for couples or small families. However, the multi-level layout and sculptural staircase may require caution for very young children.
How do I book a stay at this Lagerfeld property?
The property is exclusively managed by HIGHSTAY. Reservations can be made through their official platform, where you can also find other curated luxury apartments across Paris's most prestigious arrondissements.
Are you inspired by the blend of industrial steel and luxury wellness? Whether you're planning a trip to Paris or looking to bring a touch of 'Space-Age' chic to your own home office renovation, the Saint-Germain I suite serves as the ultimate mood board for modern living.
