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Origin and history

The Studio Building, located 65 rue La Fontaine in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, is an emblem of the Art Deco architecture of the 1920s-1930s. Designed by architect Henri Sauvage between 1927 and 1932, it is distinguished by its reinforced concrete structure, fully covered with polychrome tiles (light grey, yellow and blue) provided by the company Gentil & Bourdet. Designed for artists, it offers 50 duplex apartments and workshops, illuminated by glass windows on two levels, including a space of more than 230 m2.

The facades, overlooking the streets of La Fontaine, the General-Largeau and the Perchamps, contrast with their treatment: polychrome side street and white side courtyard. The building embodies the luxury and modernity of the era, with noble materials and an innovative design for artists' homes. It combines functionality (integrated workshops) and aesthetics, typical of the Art Deco movement that combines geometry and ornaments.

The Studio Building was listed as a historic monument in 1975 for its facades and roofs, and in 1990 it was restored to its original state. Sources mention differences in construction dates (1927-1928 according to Monumentum, 1929-1932 according to Wikipedia), perhaps reflecting distinct phases of the project. Its architecture remains a major testimony to the urban innovation of Paris between the two wars.

The building is part of a context where Paris attracts an international artistic community, requiring spaces suitable for creation. The 16th arrondissement, then in full residential boom, welcomes this achievement as a symbol of an elitist and functional heritage. The tiles of Gentil & Bourdet, specialist in architectural ceramics, also highlight the link between art crafts and modern architecture.

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