When I was lucky enough to be living in Paris, I regularly passed by so many architectural wonders - le Tour Saint Jean-sans-Peur, the Medici Column, the Luxor Obelisk, and so many more...
One thing that always captured my imagination was the Maison Loo. Today, let's take a P'Niche peek to learn more about this enigmatic mystery hiding in Parisian plain sight...
Nestled in the residential and delightful 8th arrondissement, just steps away from the idyllic Parc Monceau and le Musée Nissim de Camondo, we've arrived at today's architectural treat - the Maison Loo - a pagoda most unique.
We find ourselves at the intersection of rue des Courcelles and rue Rembrandt. As you encircle the building on foot, you cannot help but notice the uniquely ornate façade, that harkens back to Chinese dynasties long since gone.
But, how did this figurative bridge between France and China come to be placed in the middle of France's busiest city?
So glad you asked, you inquisitive P'Nicher!
As we park the P'Niche Time Travel Machine (now back from seasonal maintenance and repairs), we find ourselves in 1902 and the arrival of (somewhat controversial) Chinese art dealer, one Ching Tsai Loo, who quickly achieved success in the art world, and with his winnings, purchased a hotel particulier (that's a private mansion to you and me), which was constructed in 1880.
As we move forward to 1926, and taking note of the absence of building permit regulations at that time, Loo quickly hired architect Fernand Bloch to bring his dreams of a tangible homage to his homeland of China to life.
And what followed was truly exceptional...
At the onset of the massive renovation project, the original structure was raised by 2 additional floors/levels.
In keeping with Chinese architecture and design, the building was enveloped in the traditional good luck color of red (bricks).
Resting atop the structure was a jade-green tile roof, adorned with charming Chinese gargoyles and additional whimsical touches.
The interior was shown every bit of cultural care and attention as the exterior.
The walls were covered with rich 16th and 17th century lacquered wood panels. This was in addition to the ornate art deco glass ceiling (telling tales of ancient Chinese characters, of course) as well as the installation of the state of the art (for the time) lacquer and wood electric elevator.
Once completed and continuing through Monsieur Loo's passing in 1957, the Pagoda served as a museum of cultural awareness.
The space was filled with scores of paintings, objets d'art, furniture, tapestries, porcelain, a mini library, and other marvels.
While the building was not at all well received by the Parisians upon it's debut, it has stood the test of time and become not so much an eye sore, but an eye catching building. So much so that when the building fell into disrepair, it was purchased in 2011 by a private French investor, who in turn repaired and reopened - not as a public museum, but a location to serve as a venue for fine arts, cultural fairs, thematic exhibitions and events. You can even privatize the space for a truly unique event and experience. Apéro at the Maison Loo anyone?!
Want to check out Maison Loo? Great!
La Pagode de Paris
48 rue des Courcelles
Métro: Courcelles (Line 2)
While the library can be entered with an invitation to research, the Pagoda hosts various exhibitions, and you can find that schedule of events here. Hours/fees will vary by exhibition.
Even after nearly three years of blogging, we're just scratching the surface on the many delights of Paris. We hope you will subscribe to join us back here in the Parisian Niche as we grow and lean even deeper into Paris's rich history and beauty In the meantime, P'Nicher, what has been your favorite Parisian discovery? Let us know in the comments below et à bientôt!
What a beautiful building!
Merci, Chrissy, for sharing this gem. I'm working on a piece that occurs in the late 1920s and my characters MUST attend a party at this magnificent Loo.