Maison flottante, Creative residency in Chatou, France
Maison Flottante is a flat-bottomed floating house and artistic workspace on the river in Chatou that measures 23 meters long and contains 110 square meters of interior space. The structure sits on water, stabilized by steel cables and braces to handle the movement from passing boats.
The French Ministry of Culture commissioned this floating house in 2006 to mark the tenth anniversary of the National Center for Art Publishing and Images. This project revived a forgotten local tradition of river living that had existed on the Seine for generations.
The residence preserves memories of historic boat-washing facilities that once lined the river while hosting contemporary artists who create, experiment, and share their work with visitors.
The house is accessed via a walkway from the riverbank and is generally open year-round depending on water levels and seasonal programming. Spring through autumn offers the most consistent access and the most frequent public events and artist exhibitions.
The structure has covered terraces at both ends topped with wooden pergolas that help it blend naturally with its riverside setting. These outdoor spaces function as informal gathering areas where visitors often encounter artists at work and conversations about the river's history.
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