Espace Niemeyer Paris
Headquarters of the PCF
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
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Paris
Beaupassage
An open-air food court
The "Beaupassage" in Paris is just as much a space dedicated to food as it is to nature and art. It's a 10,000 m² courtyard completed in 2018...
by
Alix
Mengin
Le Réservoir de Montsouris
Water in Paris
"Le Réservoir de Montsouris" is the biggest water reservoir in Paris. It's a truly impressive structure that's more than 150 years old...
by
Alix
Mengin
Librairie Galignani
A bookstore with a history
"Librairie Galignani" in Paris is a bookshop with a long history and is without a doubt one of the city's most beautiful!
by
Alix
Mengin
La Ferme d’Alexandre
Cheese lovers’ paradise
"La Ferme d’Alexandre" is a cheeseshop like no other in Paris. With their over 350 types of cheeses, they've made it all the way to the Elysée Palace...
by
Alix
Mengin
Théâtre de La Huchette
Spectacle Ionesco
"Théâtre de La Huchette" in Paris is known for its Spectacle Ionesco, which has hosted performances of the famous Romanian playwright since 1957...
by
Alix
Mengin
Promenade Plantée
A walk on the Viaduc des arts
The "Promenade Plantée" in Paris is a 4.5-km corridor that's 10m above ground that will take you from the Place de la Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes...
by
Alix
Mengin
Miznon
Boeuf bourguignon in-a-pita
"Miznon" in Paris had the absolute genius idea of combining the traditional pita with a great French classic - the bœuf bourguignon! Great lunch spot.
by
Alix
Mengin
Chercheminippes
Second-hand pioneers!
The Marais in Paris is best known for its second-hand clothing shops, but "Chercheminippes" and its six shops have been innovating for half a century...
by
Alix
Mengin
L’Atelier Geneviève
Ceramicafé
"L’Atelier Geneviève" is a 'ceramicafé' - here you can decorate your own ceramics w/ a coffee or breakfast. They even have kintsugi workshops!
by
Alix
Mengin
Land & Monkeys
Mastering the vegan croissant
"Land & Monkeys" in Paris makes 100% vegan croissants & other French staples. Is such a thing possible, you ask? Oh yes...
by
Alix
Mengin
Des Gâteaux et du Pain
The butteriest croissants
"Des Gâteaux et du Pain" was the first place that sprang to my mind when listing my top spots in Paris. They completely changed my croissant habits...
by
Alix
Mengin
Grand Palais Éphémère
A modular palace
The "Grand Palais Éphémère" in Paris is set to host the Grand Palais' events while the latter is being renovated. Who knows, it might even stick around!
by
Alix
Mengin
Heading to Paris?
168 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Paris?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 168 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Paris
Get to know our other Spotters from Paris
As featured on:
