U.S. vs France: Renovation Révélation:
10 Things We’ve Learned Renovating Apartments in Paris vs. the U.S.
After completing our 30th apartment renovation in Paris earlier this year, we’ve come to appreciate just how wildly different the renovation experience can be from the US. In truth, Meg has heard me complain, from time to time, about the frustrations of working in a foreign country and to assuage my guilt, I thought I’d lay out some of the key differences -- and then move on! Because in reality, working in Europe is so full of charm, despite the surprises that it’s actually well worth it, if you’re prepared. If you're diving into a Parisian renovation, here are 10 things we've learned (sometimes the hard way) that might save you time, money, and sanity.
​
​
1. Preservation Over Personalization
What we learned: In Paris, we prefer to work with the architecture, not against it. We often don’t just renovate—we restore. We’ve happily had to rethink our design instincts to honor original moldings, fireplaces, and parquet floors.
In the U.S.: We often start fresh, gutting spaces and customizing freely.
​
​
2. Permits Are a Process—Not a Formality
What we always do: In Paris, we’ve learned to build extra time into our schedule just for paperwork. Before touching a tile, we check with the copropriété and sometimes even the mairie. And if we are undergoing even a modest renovation, we hire a bailiff to survey the interiors of the neighboring apartments.
In the U.S.: Permits are usually straightforward (although we’ve had a few doozies in the city of Atlanta!).
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
3. Walls That Refuse to Move
What we learned: In Paris, we’ve learned to embrace the original floor plan—or get creative within its limits. Load-bearing walls in Paris are often stone or brick, and moving them is a major undertaking. We always bring in a structural engineer early.
In the U.S.: We’re used to flexible layouts.
4. Plumbing Is a Game of Chess
What we prefer: In Paris, we’ve learned to get very creative when it comes to evacuation pipes! Our clients often ask for two separate toilets which can be a challenge with existing plumbing stacks. We’ve learned to be very creative within the limits of the layouts.
In the U.S.: We’ve relocated entire kitchens or bathrooms with ease.
​
​
5. Electrical Systems Need a Full Overhaul
What we always do: In Paris, we almost always assume rewiring is necessary and plan for a full electrical upgrade from the start. Paris apartments often have outdated systems with minimal outlets. Or when they’ve been renovated, they sometimes have very confusing circuits that need to be undone.
In the U.S.: Adding outlets is easy. And adding dimmers is as easy as pie.
​
​
6. Labor Is Pricier—and Slower
What we learned: French labor laws are strict, and artisans take their time. We’ve adjusted our expectations and budget accordingly because we prefer to work with trusted craftsmen—even if it takes longer.
In the U.S.: We’re used to faster turnarounds.
​
​
7. Elevators Are Rare—and Tiny
What we always do: Many Paris buildings lack elevators, and those that exist are barely big enough for a toolbox. So we always plan for exterior mounting systems, which require permission from the mairie and require a heftier budget.
In the U.S.: In apartment buildings, we rely on service elevators. Ahh, the luxury!
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
8. Design Is About Harmony, Not Contrast
What we prefer: In Paris, we’ve learned that subtlety and respect for the building’s character go a long way. We love a mix that celebrates modern elements with classic Parisian features.
In the U.S.: We love bold transformations.
​
​
9. The Copropriété Has Real Power
What we learned: In Paris, we’ve learned to collaborate early and often with the powers that be, including the gardienne, the nosy neighbor and the condo board. We’ve learned that diplomacy can go a long way (although experience has taught us when forgiveness can be better than permission!).
In the U.S.: Condo boards can be tough, but single-family homes offer freedom.
​
​
10. Timelines Are Aspirational
What we always do: In Paris, we’ve learned to embrace the slower pace and always add a buffer. Between artisan schedules, holidays (count four in May!), permit delays, and supply chain hiccups, Paris renovations take time. In the U.S.: We’ve completed projects in weeks.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Final Thought:
Renovating in Paris is a lesson in patience, creativity, and reverence. It’s not just about making a space beautiful—it’s about honoring its story. We’ve made mistakes, learned lessons, and come to love the process for all its complexity. If you’re about to start your own Parisian renovation, we hope these tips help you feel a little more prepared—and a lot less alone.
À bientôt!
