Doesn’t the name Traverse Sainte-Hélène sound like a secret passage to another world? It is more like a gateway to art and hospitality in Marseille. Since 2021, Traverse Sainte-Hélène has been home to a space dedicated to design and contemporary art. Catherine Bastide, a former gallery owner, curates the art.
Before its art transformation, the building got a facelift. Marion Bernard’s architecture studio performed the work. Now, Traverse Sainte-Hélène blends creativity and hospitality.
Let’s step inside Traverse Sainte-Hélène. Downstairs, you’ll find a concrete kitchen. Artist Régis Jocteur Monrozier designed it as a permanent art piece. The ground floor offers a visual experience.
Upstairs, a bright bedroom awaits. It features sloping ceilings. The Laissez Passer collective carefully decorated it. This collective recycles materials from the harbor. You might spot pool-style tile floors. A mesh-frame bed sits on wheels. Light fixtures are made from buoys.
But the real gem is the sunny balcony at Traverse Sainte-Hélène. Relax here. Enjoy the picture-perfect view of the Mediterranean. It is perfect to laze about.
Traverse Sainte-Hélène also serves as a gallery. Sometimes, talented artists stay here. This southern house opens its doors to lucky guests.
Fancy a creative dinner? Privatize the gallery space. Invite chefs to craft a delightful meal.
If you want to stay here, it starts at 140 euros a night in the off-season. In the tourist season, it is 170 euros a night.
Though breakfast isn’t served, there’s a kitchenette. Make your own meal. Or visit Moutchou café nearby.
Traverse Sainte-Hélène embodies art, design, and Marseille’s spirit.