The “Espace Niemeyer”, located in Paris’ 19tharrondissement, is not only home to the French Communist Party (PCF) but also a space dedicated to artistic expression. After a long hesitation on whether to write an article about this building or about the equally futuristic-looking building which houses the newspaper Le Monde, I decided, in the end, to opt for the former i.e. for the one with the most history (do, however, look up a photo of the latter!). Indeed, work on the building started in 1968, only to end in 1980 as it was interrupted from 1971-1978 due to lack of funds.
An example of modern architecture, the building was designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer – a prominent figure of modern architecture and fervent communist – who sought refuge in France after fleeing his country following a military coup in the 1960s. The building rests on five stilts which elevate it above ground and uses new materials such as concrete. Niemeyer himself described his work as “simple”, a building with “new shapes” but exempt of any luxurious or superfluous finishes.
The design of the exterior, as well as of the interior offers a play of light and shade, which make it an ideal location for art exhibitions. The “Espace Niemeyer” has also been used for fashion shows organised by Prada, Jean-Paul Gaultier and the likes of Kanye West, as well as a set for music videos and films. Somewhat paradoxical, don’t you think, for the headquarters of the PCF?
Find your way with 168 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Music Avenue Paris is my local soul/funk/hip-hop specialist. The place has been going since 1995 and every year they really celebrate record store day!
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Les Brutalists is where you'll find a leather maker's workshop that produces customized leather belts and unique, edgy accessories!
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The records sitting in the racks at Vinyl Office make it seem like someone's prized personal collection, with a special focus on black music!
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Cafe "Nomade" is based in an ex-tapissier. It's a perfect morning stop-off ofr a combo of filter coffee, pressed juice and a croissant or pain du chocolat.
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"Jardin Nelson Mandela" in Paris is a new public garden. What's remarkable is the number of shadows to be found there -- useful to remember in the summer.
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"Fontaine de La Croix" in Paris is a folie that's a street relic of a roundabout with many bizarre details that make it very attractive to me...
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"Musée de l'histoire d'immigration" Paris started off as a small museum on ex-French colonies; now it celebrates immigration into France. Lovely terrace
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"Rue du Pelican" in Paris has an isolated space that feels like a time capsule. One can build tall stories of what shady goings-on must've gone on here...
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"Charonne" Paris is an area that in my opinion has been the area which has managed to keep its original identity the most. I love the benches here...
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"Les Douches Gallery" Paris is situated in what was once a public bath built in the 1930s. The gallery itself is fascinating, but the building is better!
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