Was it a cinema or an apartment building? The Immeuble Studio Raspail, a fascinating blend of both, stands before us. This building, nestled on Boulevard Raspail, holds a captivating story. The Immeuble Studio Raspail was the brainchild of Bruno Elkouken, a Polish architect who arrived in Paris in 1920. Commissioned by the cosmetics queen Helena Rubinstein, the building was completed in 1934. It was a testament to the stylish artist studios that were all the rage in 1930s Paris. However, these studios were more of a trendy living space for the Parisian bourgeoisie than actual workspaces for artists. A prime example is the Immeuble Studio Raspail itself. The expansive bay windows, designed to flood the studios with natural light, weren’t oriented north, as would be typical for an artist’s atelier. The building also housed a small cinema on the ground floor. Initially called “Raspail 216,” it later became known as “Studio Raspail” and could seat 278 moviegoers. Sadly, this haven for cinephiles shut its doors in 1982. Despite its short run, the cinema held a special place in the hearts of Parisians. In 1986, the Immeuble Studio Raspail was partially listed in the Supplementary Inventory of Historical Monuments. A testament to its unique architectural style and historical significance. Its story intertwined with the glamour of the cosmetics industry and the allure of Parisian art scene, the Immeuble Studio Raspail remains a captivating landmark on Boulevard Raspail.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.