Highstay Offers Exclusive Parisian Apartments, Including Karl Lagerfeld’s Former Office

Across French film director Éric Rohmer’s oeuvre, the Parisian pied-à-terre emerges as a recurring theme—a symbol of independence, intrigue and the ephemeral nature of urban life. Still, the concept dates back much further, to the 18th century when affluent Europeans began maintaining modest apartments in major capitals for business and social pursuits. This enduring appeal for a home away from home inspired Jess Levy and brothers Eric and Michael Dayan to found Highstay in 2020, envisioning a service that delivers five-star hotel amenities within private residences in Paris’s most sought-after neighborhoods.

Founded in 2020 by entrepreneurs and investors Jess Levy, and Éric and Michael Dayan, Highstay provides a modern approach to upscale hospitality and extended stays . The company acquires 99% of the apartments it operates, ensuring a consistent level of quality and service. Highstay’s portfolio features properties designed by a team of interior designers and architects, supported by dedicated in-house staff. The company also manages a ‘Curated by’ collection, preserving architecturally and culturally significant addresses.

Saint-Germain I: A Former Karl Lagerfeld Office

The latest addition to Highstay’s offerings is the former Paris office of Karl Lagerfeld, the iconic designer who profoundly impacted global visual culture. Located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the three-story space, housed in an early 19th-century building, underwent a transformation in 2024 after being purchased by a private owner. French interior architect Pauline Leprince redesigned the space into an intimate, multi-level residence now available for bookings. The location is near the former home of Serge Gainsbourg on Rue de Verneuil.

The interior design embraces minimalist and Space Age aesthetics, featuring a restrained color palette of steel and ivory. A dramatic curved staircase, with an intricately sculpted steel bannister co-designed by Lagerfeld and Australian industrial designer Marc Newson, serves as a central focal point. A Dos à Dos armchair from Leprince’s 05-FP-23 collection complements the staircase.

Design Details and Amenities

Soaring ceilings and twin steel bookcases, also designed by Leprince, adorn the living room, referencing Lagerfeld’s passion for books; he was the founder of the Parisian bookshop and library 7L. The residence includes two fully-equipped kitchens and an intimate bar with warm wood accents.

Upstairs, the master bedroom features a bed encased within a steel capsule with integrated shelving. A second, independent bedroom with its own bathroom provides additional sleeping quarters. The lower level houses a wellness area complete with a sauna and hammam. Key artworks within the residence include Head in the Clouds XL by French sculptor Laurence Perratzi, Whisper Dinner Tonight by London-based Ukrainian artist Lizii Chan, and a geometric composition by French painter Jacques Daibehesse.

The ‘Karl Itinerary’ and Booking Information

As part of the ‘Curated by Highstay’ collection, guests at Saint-Germain I can opt for a bespoke ‘Karl Itinerary,’ curated by Highstay’s concierge service. This itinerary traces Lagerfeld’s favorite Left Bank haunts, including Café de Flore and Maison du Caviar.

For bookings and more information, visit highstay.com. The Saint-Germain I apartment is located at Rue de Verneuil, 75007 Paris, France.