Construction of the city 1933-1936 (≈ 1935)
Directed by Germain Dorel for the Foyer du Progrès.
21 février 1996
Partial classification
Partial classification 21 février 1996 (≈ 1996)
Fronts, roofs and stairwells protected.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Facades and roofs of all bar buildings (except side fence buildings); stairwells; ground of the parcel (Box AB 209): inscription by order of 21 February 1996
Key figures
Germain Dorel - Architect
Designer of the HBM city.
Karl Ehn - Viennese architect
Inspiration via Karl Marx Hof.
Origin and history
The Cité d'Habitations Bon Marché du Blanc-Mesnil was built between 1933 and 1936 by architect Germain Dorel for the Société du Foyer du Progrès et de l'Avenir. This project is part of the HBM (Moderate Rent Housing) movement, which aimed to improve the housing conditions of the popular classes in the interwar period. The architecture of the city reflects an influence marked by the Viennese model, notably the Karl Marx Hof designed by Karl Ehn in 1927, characterized by bars of functional buildings and a collective organization of spaces.
The city is distinguished by its facades and roofs protected since 1996, as well as its stairwells and the ground of the plot, classified in the inventory of Historic Monuments. Located at 212 avenue du Huit-Mai-1945, it illustrates the social planning of the 1930s, marked by a desire for modernity and hygienism. The property now belongs to a private company, perpetuating its initial residential use.
The Vienna inspiration of this city reflects the architectural exchanges in Europe during this period, when Austrian models of social housing — often linked to progressive ideals — influenced French achievements. Germain Dorel's choice as project manager underlines the importance attached to an aesthetic and functional design, adapted to the needs of working families in the Paris suburbs.
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