Siège du Parti communiste français
Description
The headquarters of the French Communist Party is a modern building in the 19th arrondissement of Paris, designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The curved facade with large glass panels rests on just five pillars and appears to float, while the semi-circular concrete dome inside is covered with aluminum slats.
History
The building was constructed between 1968 and 1971, with Niemeyer offering his work without payment to support the communist movement. The second construction phase with the dome and entrance hall followed between 1978 and 1980, and the structure received heritage protection status in 2007.
Culture
The name of the building comes directly from its role as the administrative center of the French Communist Party, though today it is also called Espace Niemeyer after its architect. The dome inside resembles the shape of a pregnant belly and is meant to symbolize life and the future, an idea Niemeyer himself described.
Practical
The site is next to Colonel Fabien metro station and easily accessible on line 2. Visits are often possible during guided tours that showcase the architecture and its use as a venue for exhibitions and conferences.
Did you know?
Niemeyer took on the project for free because he wanted to support the communist movement, which was unusual for such a well-known architect. The structure has also served as a backdrop for fashion shows, music videos, and film shoots, including work by artists like Angèle and Alain Souchon.
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