FREAKS assumes industrial aesthetics for performing arts space in paris

architecture studio, FREAKS, has completed the renovation of ‘la manutention’ – a residency space for performing artists within palais de tokyo in paris. originally built in 1937, the building has been home to a center for contemporary art since 2002 following the renovation of parts of the interior spaces led by architects lacaton & vassal. the current residency program invites six emerging artists each year for a period of one month. the new design therefore required a scheme that accommodates a wide range of activities and the daily life of an artist.

images: palais de tokyo 2019 © ayka lux

performing artist: NSDOS (and his dog akira)

FREAKS is a sponsor of the renovation project and has created a unique architectural gesture. the total area of the space includes a range of different functions, balancing living, working and reception spaces. to accommodate the life of an artist, a sleeping area, bathroom, kitchen and storage space has been implemented in the plan. for work and rehearsal related functions, a dance floor, mirrors and dance bar are given a generous space. the design also includes a reception area with modular tables, dimmable lighting system and technical ceiling for performances. the bed is designed like a mobile canopy, made by ronan masson, and can move around and be stored to disappear completely into the wall of color-gradient mirrors.

the project fully assumes the general industrial aesthetics of the palais de tokyo with a light gray flocking on the ceiling that emphasizes the beam lines on which a set of industrial tubular lights are suspended. the window wall is deliberately left blank. the floor of the living space is treated in anthracite resin with a sika finish and the workspace / rehearsal area with soft tarkett dance floor. in essence, the work by FREAKS continues the simple and effective architectural treatment of the previous lacaton & vassal project, while offering a comfort of life and work to accompany the most contemporary creation.

project info:

project name: ‘la manutention’

contracting authority: palais de tokyo

architect: FREAKS

surface area: 120m2

completion: february 2019

building companies: cora2l, isofis and ronan masson

partner companies: sammode, sika and tarkett

main patrons: nicolas bara, bernard chenebault, yann marie daguzan, thierry forien, didier gaillot, sandra hegedüs, elisabeth lenchener, rosella mangeruca, kathleen o’donoghue, floriane de saint pierre, anne-claire and nicolas trier and claudine and alain wayser

performing artist: NSDOS (and his dog akira)

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom