Pavillon Monvoisin, Cité Rebard

Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Monvoisin Pavilion is the last vestige of the Bureau Minier Guyanais in the Rebard city of Cayenne. Built in the 3rd quarter of the 20th century, it embodies the modern post-departmental architecture, adapted to the tropical climate. Its style fits into the standards of the Modern Movement, both in metropolis and overseas, with a deep reflection on modern materials and techniques for equatorial habitat.

This pavilion, called a "bioclimatic villa", is part of an experimental urban complex aimed at improving the quality of life in Guyana. It illustrates a key period of urbanization in Cayenne, marked by the arrival of civil servants and the creation of suitable housing. Its inscription as a Historic Monument in 2024 underscores its heritage importance for local and architectural history.

The land of the Rebard city, initially operated by a brick factory and later a dairy, was bought by the State in 1954 by Laurent Euphrasius Rebard. This takeover allowed the construction of subdivisions for the actors of the département, including the Monvoisin pavilion. Its name pays tribute to a former owner, while its architecture reflects a desire for social and technical innovation.

Experts such as François Goven (inspector of heritage) or Antoine Bruguerolle (architect of heritage) highlighted his role in the history of tropical habitat. The pavilion, with its bioclimatic characteristics, bears witness to a period when architecture sought to reconcile modernity, functionality and adaptation to the Guyanese climate.

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