Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Maison Frugès, originally built in 1878 under the name of Hotel Daverne, was acquired in 1912 by Henry Baronnet-Fruges, an industrial sugar producer and passionate patron of art. Wishing to make it a modern home break with traditional Bordeaux codes, he entrusted his renovation to architect Pierre Ferret. The works, carried out between 1913 and 1927 despite the interruption of the First World War, radically transformed the building, mixing influences Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Orientalists. Fragès aims to make it a "house-museum", a synthesis of French know-how, with the collaboration of major artists such as Edgar Brandt, René Lalique or Gaston Schnegg.

The interior decoration reflects the eclectic tastes of Frugges, with recurring motifs inspired by nature (algae, vines) and the Orient. The vestibule, decorated with ironwork by Edgar Brandt and mosaics by Lucien Cazieux, plays on transparency and light. The dining room celebrates Bordeaux vineyards through carved woodwork and a fresco depicting the Fête des Vendanges. The bathroom, entirely covered with turquoise mosaics, and the loggia with twin columns illustrate the aesthetic daring of the project. Ranked a historic monument in 1992, the house also includes its garden and decor, testifying to a total work where architecture and decorative arts dialogue.

The hotel Fruges is distinguished by its richly decorated facade, combining pink brick, white stone and wrought iron elements. The aquatic (algae, octopus) and wine-growing (raisins, vine leaves) themes are omnipresent, while artists such as Robert Wlérick (sculpture La Source) or Jean Dunand contribute to its unique character. A symbol of industrial patronage, this home also embodies the artistic changes of the early twentieth century, between medieval heritage, modernity and exoticism. Its ranking today protects an exceptional architectural and decorative ensemble, the result of a collaboration between a visionary sponsor and artisans of excellence.

External links