Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Maison du Dr Gauthier is a villa built in 1962 by architect Jean Prouvé for his son-in-law, Dr Pierre Gauthier. Situated on the Tête-de-Saint-Roch in Saint-Dié-des-Vosges, it is distinguished by its pioneering use of striated aluminum panels and a modular design based on a central supporting core. This core, bringing together bathroom, bathroom and kitchen, supports the U-shaped iron roof, while the self-supporting facades rest on rigid metal frames. The building embodies a constructive break, combining functionality and industrial aesthetics.

The property was subject to dual heritage protection: the entire house, including the outdoor bench and the indoor fireplace, was classified as a historic monument by order of 29 March 2005. The remainder of the property (land and structure, excluding classified parts) had been registered a year earlier, on 29 March 2004. These measures underline its importance in the work of Jean Prouvé and in the history of modern French architecture.

The interior layout reflects a clear spatial organization: to the west, rooms, office and a large living room form a closed wing, while the whole is covered with aluminum panels cast in edges, creating an awning for main access. The narrow roof, designed to preserve the view of trees in the background, shows particular attention to landscape integration. This project marks a key step in the evolution of constructive techniques, where metal and lightness replace traditional materials.

Acquired in July 1961 by Dr. Gauthier, the plot allowed the construction of this house, supervised by his father-in-law. Jean Prouvé, a major figure in industrial design and architecture, applies his principles of prefabrication and modularity. The villa, now protected, remains an emblematic example of its approach, combining technical innovation and response to domestic needs.

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