“Nungesser-et-Coli,” the name echoes tales of daring aviators. This street in the 16th arrondissement honors Charles Nungesser and François Coli. They were the brave pilots who attempted to cross the Atlantic in 1927.
Rue Nungesser-et-Coli begins at Boulevard d’Auteuil. It ends at 14, Rue Claude-Farrère. The street serves as a boundary with Boulogne-Billancourt. Odd-numbered buildings are on the Paris side. Even-numbered buildings stand in Boulogne-Billancourt.
In 2017, the city updated the street plaque’s description. It now recognizes their transatlantic flight on May 8 and 9, 1927. Sadly, they went missing near Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon.
Along Rue Nungesser-et-Coli stands a unique building. At number 24 is the Immeuble Molitor. Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret designed it together. This happened between 1931 and 1934. Le Corbusier lived in the building from 1933 until his death in 1965.
The Immeuble Molitor stretches across Paris and Boulogne-Billancourt. Its two facades look very similar. Some believe its name comes from the nearby Molitor swimming pool. The pool opened in 1929.
The building’s facade features glass bricks. Saint Gobain designed these “Nevada” bricks. They bring light and originality to the facade. Grills mark the second and sixth floors.
Historian Gilles Ragot calls the Immeuble Molitor a major contribution. He says it advanced modern apartment building design. It is also a place of remembrance. UNESCO recognized its importance in 2016. It was added to the World Heritage list.
Inside, Le Corbusier used principles from his villas. The exposed rubble wall reflects a shift in his thinking. The atelier has a vaulted ceiling. This design meets Parisian building codes.
The Immeuble Molitor stands out from its neighbors. Number 26 is an Art-Deco building. Number 22 is a classical modern building. Michel Roux-Spitz designed it. This creates a delightful contrast for architecture lovers.
The building underwent renovations in 1962. Le Corbusier oversaw the work. The Immeuble Molitor became a registered historic monument. This happened on June 9, 2017.
So, as you stroll along Rue Nungesser-et-Coli, remember the aviators. Remember also Le Corbusier’s architectural vision. The street connects daring history with innovative design. It is a Parisian blend of adventure and art.