Explore the secluded, contemporary architectural gem nestled in the 16th district of Paris. A must-see before it's too late!
Unveiling the Hidden Modernist Gem in Paris
Stepping off the beaten path in the Auteuil neighborhood, you'll stumble upon a secret urban paradise. Nestled between Avenue Mozart and Rue du Dr Blanche, on a quiet cul-de-sac, lies one of the most remarkable modernist achievements in the city of love. Dubbed Mallet-Stevens' Avenue, this hidden gem is a testament to Robert Mallet-Stevens' vision and groundbreaking architectural prowess.
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From Dream to Reality: The Birth of a Custom-Made Street
In 1924, the visionary banker Daniel Dreyfus, owner of a vast plot of land, envisioned an innovative residential complex. He hired the brilliant young architect Robert Mallet-Stevens to draft the blueprints. A mere two years later, construction began, with Mallet-Stevens transforming a mere 100-meter private road into a tranquil haven for modernist architecture.
Instagram Post ## Pure Lines, Frank Volumes
Mallet-Stevens' masterpiece features five striking villas, each embellished with rhythmic band windows and integrated rooftop terraces and balconies. To add to their aesthetic charm, each house showcases unique features — cylindrical staircases, spacious interiors, and an exclusive blend of functionality and simplicity. The buildings boast glass, metal, and reinforced concrete materials, which were revolutionary for their time. The street quickly became a reference point for European modernist architecture, cementing Mallet-Stevens' place as a pivotal figure in the movement.
Art Imbued in Architecture
From the very beginning, the project was rooted in the unifying spirit of the arts. Mallet-Stevens collaborated with renowned artisans like Jean Prouvé, Louis Barillet, Charlotte Perriand, Gabriel Guevrekian, and Francis Jourdain to create a harmonious fusion of design, furniture, and decorative arts. The result is an architectural landscape brimming with natural light, clean lines, and functional spaces — a true ode to the modernist movement.
The Hotel Martel - home to the martel sculptor duo Jan and Joël - serves as the epitome of Mallet-Stevens' philosophy. Cubist volumes, abstract stained glass, integrated furniture, and helical staircases unite to form an awe-inspiring ensemble that continues to captivate architecture enthusiasts, making it the perfect setting for Galerie 54, a hub for modernist furniture and architecture.
Instagram Post ## Protected and Preserved for Future Generations
Following Mallet-Stevens' death in 1945, his work entered the shadows, temporarily overshadowed bydestroyed archives and a shift in architectural trends. However, the street persevered, maintaining its original character and beauty. In the 1970s, some villas underwent modifications and alterations, breaking the street's initial harmony; it was only in 1975 that the authorities classified the site to prevent further disfigurations, eventually inscribing it as Historical Monuments in 2000.
Today, this enchanting street stands as a living testament to the genius of Robert Mallet-Stevens, inviting architecture enthusiasts to admire its modernist charm while peering just a few steps away at the captivating Villa La Roche, designed by the iconic Le Corbusier.
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Step into the captivating homes located on Mallet-Stevens' Avenue, as this modernist street offers a breathtaking fusion of lifestyle and architecture. Discover the harmonious blend of furniture and decorative arts, where the relaxation of a home-and-garden setting meets the sleek, minimalist in-flights of modern design.
For modernist enthusiasts, a visit to the Hotel Martel is a must. This architectural masterpiece houses Galerie 54, an extraordinary gallery showcasing exquisite modernist furniture and architecture — the perfect addition to embracing the lifestyle this hidden gem offers.
