Although we have some experience with the quirkiness of a European apartment, it's a whole other thing to inhabit one for a few weeks. Not difficult, just a few things to get used to.
For example, the kitchens are closed off and, in the case of our temporary apartment, a bit far from the family rooms. I'm getting used being in my own quiet space when I sort the dishes or grab a snack. And I'm digging not having to look at dirty dishes from my sofa.
Also, the toilets get their own rooms, called water closets. I won't go in to more detail (and no photos). It's just odd, especially for the girls. No bidet here, so we didn't have to have that conversation with them.
My favorite thing, though, is the "maid's entrance" in all the kitchens. Back when these building were constructed, the servants entered through a twisty, narrow back staircase that lead from basement all the way up to the attics, where their bedrooms would have been located. Nowadays, the attics are mostly rented (to students, I was told) and those back staircases are no longer used -- too dangerous and some are boarded up. But the stories they tell!
I like the interesting use of space in this apartment, too. Like the water heaters are suspended above a water closet and another in a closet. It sure beats taking up floor space, but it's funny to look UP to see...
The internal windows with views of the side of the building, or courtyard, also serve as a reminder that you're in an old building in a very busy city.
And let's not forget the individual architecture that makes each one of these beige buildings in Paris so unique and beautiful. Gazing at each building while walking through the streets is one of the reasons I love this city so much. They're even pretty from the inside ...
We've got about a week left in this temporary flat before we're officially in our permanent residence. I'm grateful that we could spend the time here, among these antiques and creaking wood floors, for the chaotic transition time.
Related posts:
More about our Paris move
For example, the kitchens are closed off and, in the case of our temporary apartment, a bit far from the family rooms. I'm getting used being in my own quiet space when I sort the dishes or grab a snack. And I'm digging not having to look at dirty dishes from my sofa.
Also, the toilets get their own rooms, called water closets. I won't go in to more detail (and no photos). It's just odd, especially for the girls. No bidet here, so we didn't have to have that conversation with them.
My favorite thing, though, is the "maid's entrance" in all the kitchens. Back when these building were constructed, the servants entered through a twisty, narrow back staircase that lead from basement all the way up to the attics, where their bedrooms would have been located. Nowadays, the attics are mostly rented (to students, I was told) and those back staircases are no longer used -- too dangerous and some are boarded up. But the stories they tell!
I like the interesting use of space in this apartment, too. Like the water heaters are suspended above a water closet and another in a closet. It sure beats taking up floor space, but it's funny to look UP to see...
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| Using All the Space! |
And let's not forget the individual architecture that makes each one of these beige buildings in Paris so unique and beautiful. Gazing at each building while walking through the streets is one of the reasons I love this city so much. They're even pretty from the inside ...
 |
| There Are Two Rounded Windows In This Apartment |
Related posts:
More about our Paris move
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