Imagine living and working in a space conceived as a total work of art. That’s the story of the Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel. This building stands as a testament to architectural innovation and artistic collaboration.
The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel is located on Rue Mallet-Stevens. This street itself is a unique Parisian creation. The architect Robert Mallet-Stevens designed this house for the sculptor brothers Jan and Joël Martel in 1927. They frequently worked together. The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel is the only building that has kept its original design.
Robert Mallet-Stevens was a leading proponent of Modernism in France. The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel exemplifies this. The building combines living spaces with a large studio. This design suited the Martel brothers perfectly. The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel became their creative hub.
Finances were tight. The Martel’s father sold his Parisian apartment. He also sold land in Vendée to fund the new studio. He moved into an apartment in the building. Jan and his family occupied another. This sacrifice shows the family’s commitment to the brothers’ art.
The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel features a unique facade. White cubic masses create a sculptural effect. Recessed terraces add depth. A cylindrical volume encloses the circular staircase. The staircase leads to the roof terrace.
Inside the Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel, the studio spans three levels. High ceilings accommodated the Martel’s large sculptures. Large windows provided ample light. This was essential for their work. The different levels offered varying perspectives on the artwork.
Several renowned artisans contributed to the Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel. Jean Prouvé designed the metal entrance door. It allowed large statues to pass through. Louis Barillet created the stained-glass window in the stairwell. Charlotte Perriand designed a studio bar. Francis Jourdain created the sliding furniture attached to the wall, and Gabriel Guevrekian a large bedroom.
The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel remained in the Martel family until their deaths in 1966. It is a designated historical monument since 1990. This protects its architectural and interior design. The building has had several owners since then.
The interior of the Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel is carefully planned. The different levels naturally separate spaces. The lower level was once used for molding and working with clay. A mezzanine houses a library. The living spaces are filled with light.
The top of the central tower leads to the terrace. Geometric patterns cover the floor. These were designed by the Martel brothers themselves. From here, one can see the street.
The Maison-atelier des sculpteurs Joël et Jan Martel stands as a testament to artistic vision. It shows how architecture can enhance creativity. The building remains an inspiring landmark. It embodies the spirit of the Martel brothers.