In this publication, over 20 renowned architects and interior designers expose their visions of the contemporary residence. These projects are extremely varied in terms of departure point as well as conception: a contemporary residence constructed from an old linen factory, a current renovation of an old master house, a transformation of a sailor's house into a pleasing living and working space, a sober restoration of an authentic hotel, a hyper modern apartment in a contemporary building, etc. These few articles, however, are based on a same element: the permanent search for the essentials in architecture and interior design. This quest, in general, drives interior designs that witness a pleasant living minimalism: sober and stripped with respect for the right proportions of warm and natural colours. The timeless quality of materials and the contemporary know-how form the centre of each project. This is probably what we know as serenity and refinement, which are encompassed in these interiors.