Galerie Derouillon is a well-known arts haunt in the heart of Paris, and the gallery now has a new home to show off, courtesy of Saba Ghorbanalinejad, in collaboration with Iris Lacoudre Architecte. The emerging architect, part of the 2022 Wallpaper* Architects Directory, is behind this fresh reimagining of the interiors – including both art display areas and back-of-house spaces – which merges minimalist architecture and 21st-century functionality.
Working with the existing building’s bones and historical, loft-style nature, the architects crafted a plan for the redesign of different exhibition spaces, offices, and storage facilities for the gallery. The concept spans two levels and unites two distinct parts of the building, which both serve the gallery but in different ways, each having its own identity.
The architects explain: ‘These spaces respond to each other through their structure, comfort, light, and materials: one is supported by a fine metal structure, lit by a glass roof, covered by sharp and abstract materials; the other is a dimmed space, supported by large stone pillars and covered by more rough materials.' The presence of these two distinct spaces allows for different shows to co-exist, but also for different types of art to be displayed and varied responses to the pieces on display.
The architects designed clean, pared-down, light-coloured surfaces where needed for exhibits, matching original metal and stone columns with polished concrete floors or more lush, deep blue carpeted areas. Bespoke details and elements were also commissioned where needed – such as the custom-made raw steel furniture pieces in the storage areas.
Ghorbanalinejad leads a boutique studio based in Paris, working on a variety of projects, from commercial to residential, of all scales. The practice is always led by a sense of simplicity, fascinated by the impact of materials and textures on the final design.
For more to visit in the French capital see our suggestions for a Paris tour.
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