Natalia The Supernova

Trading in catwalks for charitable causes, Natalia Vodianova shows the world that she’s a philanthropic force not to be trifled with.

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If walls could talk, we imagine the white walls of Natalia Vodianova and Antoine Arnault’s Parisian duplex would have plenty to gripe about the mess. Endless stacks of stained books occupy almost every surface. Even the polished baby grand piano isn’t spared. The books aren’t on the shelves though. Those are reserved for Natalia’s artful portraits by Mario Testino, as well as candid family photos and holiday snapshots. We can’t forget about the toys. The apartment is filled with an assortment of colourful toys – a plastic bow, toy cars, a dolly’s stroller, a rocking horse – littered at every corner by their five beautiful blonde children. Natalia describes it all as a “wonderful mess”, and it genuinely is. If not for the upscale address and the magnificent view of the Eiffel Tower, you would have no clue that this was the home of a supermodel and her billionaire boyfriend. It’s not a space Marie Kondo could walk through without wincing, but the clutter simply adds to the disarming charm of the home’s mistress, a model whose ethereal beauty inspires surreal, otherworldly imagery.

For five years now, Natalia and Antoine (son of Bernard Arnault, chieftain of the LVMH empire) have been living in bliss in this luxury apartment. With the arrival of their one-year-old son Roman, their home is certainly starting to feel a little cramp, but Natalia isn’t sure about moving. “We’re looking, but I’m almost paranoid to let this place go. We’ve been so happy here.”