Fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld’s luxurious Paris apartment, which he shared with his beloved cat Choupette, was recently sold at auction for a whopping 10 million euros ($10.8 million). The 2,800-square-foot apartment, located on the Quai Voltaire, was the designer’s final residence before his passing in 2019.
The auction, which attracted more than 50 attendees, saw a tense bidding war between two parties, one of whom was represented by a French lawyer communicating with his client via cellphone. The bidding started at 5.3 million euros and quickly escalated until the lawyer’s bid of 10 million euros secured the sale.
Proceeds from the auction will go to Lagerfeld’s estate, which will be distributed among his seven heirs, including former model Baptiste Giabiconi, Lagerfeld’s longtime assistant Sébastien Jondeau, and Chanel artistic director Virginie Viard.
Lagerfeld’s apartment, with its stunning views of the Seine and the Tuileries, underwent extensive renovations by the designer himself. The space featured a mix of modern design pieces from the Galerie Kreo, all in Lagerfeld’s signature black, white, silver, and gray color palette.
Known for his meticulous and regimented lifestyle, Lagerfeld’s apartment was a reflection of his preference for a neutral environment. The space was carefully curated with specific areas designated for drawing, writing checks, and correspondence.
Despite its luxurious decor, Lagerfeld’s apartment was a private sanctuary where he rarely entertained visitors. The designer’s life in the apartment was described as intimate and luxurious, much like Coco Chanel’s time at the Ritz.
The sale of Lagerfeld’s Paris apartment comes at a time of renewed interest in the fashion icon, with several biographical projects in the works. The auction marks the end of an era for Lagerfeld’s impressive collection of homes and belongings, leaving behind a legacy of style and sophistication.